How to Transfer a 401k Into an IRA Without Getting Penalized
Investing in a 401(k) plan can be complex and confusing, with account fees, fund options, and tax implications all playing into consideration. Managing all these considerations may feel like an immense task!
Funds typically can be transferred without penalty into an IRA if you withdraw them before age 55 (with an early withdrawal penalty of 10%), however this doesn’t always work out for everyone.
401(k) Plans
401(k) plans are employer-sponsored retirement accounts that enable employees to save pretax dollars for retirement. Funds typically invested in mutual funds that combine stocks and bonds, with the percentage of holdings changing depending on each worker’s current age and planned “retirement date”.
Many individuals opt to transfer their 401(k) funds into an Individual Retirement Account (IRA), but doing so improperly could prove expensive. Most IRAs charge fees for managing assets, with pricing often differing significantly depending on which IRA provider is chosen. It’s crucial that one compares these costs against those associated with maintaining a 401(k).
Before moving a 401(k), it’s essential to carefully consider any potential tax repercussions. For instance, cashing out before 55 will incur a 10% penalty, while waiting until at least 59 1/2 allows withdrawals without incurring such an obligation.
IRAs
IRAs are open to investors of all types and offer more diverse investment options than most 401(k) plans do; typically only offering funds provided by your employer and some financial service providers.
Direct rollover allows you to transfer funds directly from a former employer’s plan into an IRA without incurring any taxes, which is the best solution when it comes to tax complications.
As another option, an indirect rollover involves receiving a check from your former employer’s plan and depositing it directly into an IRA – though this method will incur similar tax penalties as cash distribution. No matter which route you take when moving your savings, be sure to leave enough in each employer plan so you won’t run out before retiring.
Rollovers
The IRS lays down strict rules regarding how you can transfer a rollover between IRAs. Each brokerage and robo-advisor will have its own process for this, so be sure to follow it to avoid any potential problems. Alternatively, reaching out to an advisor could ensure you’re following best practices.
When moving funds from an old retirement account into a new IRA, either indirect or direct rollover may be performed. An indirect rollover involves your previous plan sending you a check payable directly to you which must then be deposited directly into your new IRA account within 60 days or it becomes subject to tax and possibly an early withdrawal penalty.
Direct rollover is when your entire original balance is transferred directly from one plan administrator or IRA provider to another, without ever reaching your hands and potentially creating tax liability. By keeping money out of your hands altogether, any accidental tax events are avoided.
Taxes
IRAs are tax-deferred investments, meaning you won’t pay income taxes on them up to a certain limit. When rolling over from a 401(k), however, the IRS requires your former employer to withhold 20% of any pre-tax funds distributed – forcing you to find other money to deposit into your new IRA within 60 days or face losing it altogether.
Direct rollover is the easiest and simplest way to transfer. Your old 401(k) provider will send a check payable directly to your new IRA provider; and they’ll provide detailed instructions on how to complete this transition.
Cash out your earnings and transfer them into a bank account; however, this could result in considerable taxes and fees. An IRA offers more control and reduced administrative expenses; consulting a financial advisor may help determine which option would best meet your needs.
Categorised in: Blog