Leaving a job unlocks new potential for your 401(k) assets.
Ending your employment can be a big life event, regardless of whether it is due to termination, quitting, retiring, or taking up new employment. It can also result in a big financial decision since retirement accounts are often a sizable portion of one’s financial net worth. Below, we discuss what happens to your 401k when you leave a job, and the primary options available for your 401(k) assets during this window of opportunity.
- Roll over to an IRA account – Rolling your assets to a new or existing IRA account can provide a higher degree of flexibility and control. Your investment options will be expanded, and you can choose to manage the account yourself or hire a professional asset manager who will tailor the portfolio to your specific needs. Also, IRA accounts can provide you with access to broader tax planning strategies, such as Roth conversions.
- Stay in your old workplace plan – If your employer allows it, and you meet any minimum dollar amounts, you may be able to keep your money where it is. Retirement plans typically have limited investment options. If there is a particularly attractive investment that you may not have access to elsewhere, you may wish to keep your assets right where they are. Plan fees might be another consideration worth investigating, as employers will sometimes cover a portion of the fees.
- Roll over to a new workplace plan – If you are changing jobs, you may have the option to roll your assets into your new employer’s plan, depending on their rules. This will allow for fewer accounts and potentially lower fees. Also, you are not required to take required minimum distributions (RMDs) from a 401(k) if you work past your age of retirement (per IRS definitions), unlike an IRA. This last rule does not apply if you own 5% or more of the company.
- Cash out (and pay taxes) – While not typically advisable, you do have the option to cash out your 401(k). You will have to report the assets as ordinary income on your next tax return and will have to pay a 10% early withdrawal penalty. “The Rule of 55” may exempt you from the 10% penalty if you are 55 or older and the plan allows for this type of distribution. If the plan is a Roth 401(k), you will only pay taxes on the earnings, not the contributions.
As always, it is best to consult with a financial advisor or tax professional to determine the right move for you. If you’re not sure what to do with your old workplace 401(k) and want to talk about your options, feel free to connect with us today.
This article was created for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as ERISA, tax, legal or investment advice. If you are seeking investment advice specific to your needs, such advice services must be obtained on your own separate from this educational material.