Should I Roll Over My Dormant Traditional 401(k)?

401(k)s and IRAs have many unique features that may be beneficial to your client, depending on their circumstances. The decision to roll funds out of a former employer’s plan involves more factors than just fees and investment selection.

To help make this analysis easier, we have created the “Should I Roll Over My Dormant Traditional 401(k)?” flowchart. It addresses some of the most common issues that should be considered before doing a rollover, including:

• Common IRA and 401(k) features and differences
• Net Unrealized Appreciation options
• Age-based distribution options
• Taxes and penalties in an IRA versus a 401(k)
• Availability/existence of loans and the impact of a rollover
• Hardship Withdrawals
• Substantially Equal Periodic Payments

Updated 10/15/2021