If you switch employers or lose your job, you may wonder how to handle an IRA rollover. The good news is that there's no rush to complete the 401(k) rollover to IRA. However, you won't be able to contribute to your 401(k) while it's under your former employer's management.
What Does 401(k) Rollover to IRA Mean?
"Rolling over" your 401(k) involves moving the money to a new retirement account. Typically, this means rolling the tax-advantaged funds into your new employer's 401(k) or into an individual retirement account.
Why Is My 401(k) Rollover Counted as Income?
Most 401(k) retirement plans come from pre-tax funds and are rolled into a Traditional IRA (designed for pre-tax income). However, a 401(k) rollover to Roth IRA may count as income since a Roth IRA consists of post-tax earnings. Ask your financial advisor how you can avoid rollovers with tax implications.
Should I Roll Over My 401(k)?
You don't have to roll over your 401(k) after leaving a job. However, you won't be able to make additional contributions unless you roll it over into a new individual retirement account.
What Are the Tax Implications of a 401(k) Rollover?
There are three choices when it comes to rolling over your 401(k):
- Cashing out your retirement plan after leaving a job subjects the funds to early withdrawal fees and taxes.
- You can also leave the funds where they are without incurring tax penalties until you're ready to move them.
- Rolling over your 401(k) into another individual retirement account or 401(k) doesn't incur tax penalties unless you withdraw the money and fail to roll it over within 60 days.
What Is the 401(k) to IRA Rollover Limit?
There are no monetary limits to how much you can roll over from a 401(k) to a traditional or Roth IRA.
What if I Cash Out My 401(k) Rather Than Rolling It Over?
If you choose not to roll over your 401(k) and receive your payment. It may result in a 10% penalty and subject your payment to taxes.
Why Work With a Financial Advisor?
It's always a good idea to work with a financial advisor before making major life changes impacting your finances. Financial advisors know the 401(k) rollover to IRA rules because they deal with them every day. By working with a professional, you gain an ally who can explain the consequences of any decisions that you may make. This is very important because making the wrong decision can have serious tax implications or subject you to an early withdrawal penalty.
When you meet with your financial advisor, bring a list of questions regarding your 401(k) rollover to IRA plans. Now is also a good time to ask any other questions you have about your retirement or other financial goals.
Your financial advisor can suggest a variety of plans that meet your retirement goals. They can also explain whether a 401(k) rollover to Roth IRA makes any sense for your specific situation.
401K Rollover Video
