If you have a substantial amount saved, and you like your plan portfolio, leaving your 401(k) with a previous employer may be a good idea. If you are likely to forget about the account or are not particularly impressed with the plan’s investment options or fees, however, then consider some of your other options.

When do you roll over a 401k to a new employer?

Many employers require new employees to put in a certain number of days of service before they can enroll in a retirement savings plan. Once you are enrolled in a plan with your new employer, it’s simple to roll over your old 401 (k).

Where can I find an old 401k from my previous employer?

If you’re unable to find an old statement, you still may be able to find the administrator by searching for the retirement plan’s tax return, known as Form 5500. You can find a 5500s by the searching the name of your former employer at If you locate a Form 5500 for an old plan, it should have the contact information on it.

Can a 401k be transferred to a new company?

If the new employer plan accepts 401 (k) transfers from other companies, there is often a substantial amount of paperwork that must be completed by the employee.

Who is required to contribute to a 401k plan?

As with a safe harbor 401 (k) plan, the employer is required to make employer contributions that are fully vested. This type of 401 (k) plan is available to employers with 100 or fewer employees who received at least $5,000 in compensation from the employer for the preceding calendar year.

Where can I find my past employer’s 401K account?

Unsure which of your past jobs you even had a 401 (k) account with? You’re not out of luck. Check out your old W-2 tax forms; the forms will list the employer you had a retirement plan with that year. Use the information on your old W-2 to contact your plan sponsor, or old employer, directly to get your account information.