Consumers are faced with many options when it comes to their companies 401k plan. It is important to note, the roll-over or transfer to one's existing IRA, a new IRA or a new company 401k plan takes place through a triggering event. A triggering event comes when one leaves their employer. If the person leaves the employer prior to retirement, the employer has four options:
- Leave the money in his/her former employer’s plan, if permitted;
- Roll over the assets to his/her new employer’s plan, if one is available and rollovers are permitted;
- Roll over to an IRA; or
- Cash out the account value.
In addition to the above, Many 401k plans enable employees to transfer funds to their IRA while still working, if they have reached the age of 59½. There are pros and cons for transferring from a 401k plan to an IRA, and one should speak with a financial advisor to see which option is best for them.