Roll into an IRA vs. stay in your own plan

Roll into an IRA

Stay in your own plan

Benefits

Your money can continue to grow tax-deferred.

You can consolidate multiple retirement accounts.

Benefits

Your money can continue to grow tax-deferred.

You can keep your assets in the same investments.

Keep in mind

Roth 401(k) or 403(b) accounts can be rolled into a Roth IRA. Non-Roth accounts can be rolled into a traditional or Roth IRA. You’ll be responsible for any unpaid taxes on the taxable portion of a Roth IRA rollover.

You can avoid required minimum distributions over your lifetime with a Roth IRA. With other retirement plan accounts and traditional IRAs, you’re generally required to withdraw a certain amount every year once you reach age 73.*

If you’re rolling to a traditional IRA, make sure the rollover funds go directly from your old plan’s trustee to the rollover IRA’s trustee or custodian to avoid having income tax withheld on the taxable portion of your distribution.

Keep in mind

Your investment options are limited to what is offered in the plan.

You’re still subject to the rules and restrictions of the plan.

If your vested account balance is $1,000 or less, your plan might cash you out. If your vested balance is between $1,000 and $7,000, your plan might roll your balance into an IRA selected by your former employer.
* For 2024 and later years, required minimum distributions are no longer required from designated Roth accounts.
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