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Featured in Columbus Dispatch (Oct 2009)
When It Makes Sense To Rollover
By Mark Fissel, RFC
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With unemployment hitting multidecade highs,
more people are leaving their employers and retirement
plans now than never. A 401(k) rollover refers to the transfer of funds from
an employer-sponsored program to an IRA or other qualified plan.
A detailed analysis of your situation with respect to your 401(k) is warranted before taking action.
Here are a few things to consider.
Investment Selection, Control & Expense
401(k) plans are typically set up with a limited menu of investments. Although there are typically adequate choices
for diversification, you may have preferences that are not satisfied within the plan. Rolling it over to an IRA account
may give you the additional flexibility you desire. In addition, you'll fine internal fund expenses are a wildcard --
sometimes they are higher in 401(k) plans and sometimes they're not. While it's difficult to determine expenses
for your 401(k), your plan administrator must give you the summary plan document upon request, which is a good
starting point.
Liquidity Needs
It's rarely a good idea to withdraw from your retirement account for emergency cash. However, it's nice to know you
have options, should you need them. 401(k)s do not afford you the option to withdraw funds prior to age 59 1/2
without incurring a 10 percent excise tax. IRA plans generally have the same restrictions but there is
an out. You can utilize Rule 72t which allows you to take regular and on-going distributions. There are
complexities to this, so speak to a professional prior to instituting.
Estate Planning
401(k) company-sponsored plans tend to be more restrictive with respect to beneficiary designations. An
IRA will allow you to set up multiple beneficiary designations for various investment strategies. In addition,
as noted above, IRA's allow you to use "stretch" distributions whereas most
401(k) plans require a lump-sum to be taken soon after death of the plan
participant. This can potentially have adverse tax consequences for the
spouse or beneficiary.
Simplicity
Often overlooked, having on IRA rather than multiple 401(k)'s can assist
a professional in making investment decisions.
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