What to Do With Your Old 401(k) When You Switch Jobs

"In a chronically leaking boat, energy devoted to changing vessels is more productive than energy devoted to patching leaks." - Warren Buffett

It is a question that I am often asked - "What should I do with my old 401(k)?" Whether you’re making a career change or just got laid off, your 401(k) may be at the bottom of your to-do list. However, moving your 401(k) is an incredibly important step that must be well-thought-out. When leaving an employer, there are typically three workable opportunities to continue the growth of your retirement funds. Understanding which route offers more advantages for continued growth that will align with your next chapter in life is the first step.

Assessment

The first step is to read through your plan's agreement. Doing so will help you understand if your employer plan accepts rollovers as some may not. Ultimately, plan sponsors maintain the membership guidelines. In some cases, your former employer’s plan may allow the sponsor to cash-out the account when you end employment. But, be careful! Withdrawals could trigger income taxes and a 10 percent penalty.¹ This could cause upwards of 30% of your 401(k)'s value to be lost to taxes. And unlike a bear market, which is temporary, this amount is gone forever.

Before you start, gather any appropriate account statements and contacts. When you originally signed up for the plan, you may have selected both a traditional 401(k) and a Roth 401(k). It is important to remember that these are two separate accounts. Traditional 401(k) contributions are not taxed but are subject to penalties in the case of early withdrawal. Roth contributions, on the other hand, are taxed but withdrawals have no adverse effect as long as the distribution is considered qualified by the IRS.² 

As there are many potential pitfalls, it is a good idea to meet with a financial advisor before undertaking this complex process. You will want to choose the right type of retirement account and avoid paying taxes or penalties for potentially choosing a plan that isn’t right for you. For example, if you decide to roll your 401(k) into a Roth, you should be prepared to pay income taxes on the full amount.

Execute Planning

A financial advisor can help you make informed decisions as you continue saving. They can offer assistance by reviewing your previous employer’s plan and weighing the benefits of your new employer’s retirement plans. More importantly, their involvement will make sure that the necessary steps are taken to transfer your funds with limited repercussions.

If you leave money in your previous employer’s plan, it’s a good idea to have an advisor review the plan’s progress over time. With this in mind, it may be time to shift or increase the associated contributions. If you decide to transfer funds, the previous plan’s administrator can often send the check to a designated contact. Working with your advisor will be beneficial as they can coordinate such transactions. 

Financial Precautions

Depending on the length of your previous employment, it’s a good idea to also check the associated vesting schedules. Vesting schedules are tied to the employer’s contributions and determine the amount and date when the employer’s contributions are legally yours. Your own contributions are fully vested from day one.

Age is another contributing factor when deciding how to approach a former employer’s contributions. For instance, if you switch jobs and turn 55 in the same year, you may withdraw funds from the 401(k) without penalty. Rolling the funds into another 401(k) or IRA imposes a higher age limit of 59½ years to avoid withdrawal penalties, depending on the plan.³ Talking with a financial advisor is the best advice when making such financial decisions in order to avoid costly mistakes.

Also, it is important to  keep in mind that your new employer may have a waiting period before you are able to rollover funds. In this case, your advisor may suggest that you open an investment account to continue contributions during the waiting period. Opening another account allows you to take advantage of the tax deduction until you make your final decision. Keeping investment growth active could be more beneficial for you in the long run.

From old job to new, you’re on the right track by having already started saving for retirement. By working with a financial advisor, you’ll gain further insight and understand the regulations of moving your funds in the way that is most beneficial for you. They will also help with navigating any future changes and uncertainties that you may encounter.