How to move your old 401(k) into a rollover IRA

A rollover IRA can help you keep a consolidated view of your investments throughout your career. Getting set up is a multi-step process, but we will help make it as quick and easy as possible.

Step 1: Set up your new account

If you don't already have a rollover IRA, you'll need to open one—this way, you can move money from your former employer's plan into this account. If there are both pre-tax and post-tax contributions in your 401(k), you might need to open a Roth IRA too.* Which IRA should you consider for your rollover?


 

Step 2: Contact your old 401(k) provider

First, identify the provider of your old 401(k). If you aren't sure who your old 401(k) provider is, the name should be on your account statements. If you have trouble finding this information, call your former employer.

Is your old 401(k) with Fidelity?

If so, you can do the entire rollover through your NetBenefits® account. You don't need any additional paperwork, and the money can be directly transferred.


Is your old 401(k) with a different provider?

If so, they will need to start the rollover process, so you'll need to either call them or initiate the process online. They may need some paperwork, such as a Letter of Acceptance (LOA) from Fidelity, or their own paperwork completed and signed by you or a Fidelity representative. If you have multiple accounts or employers, you may need more than one LOA.

Here are some questions to ask when you contact them.



Where should you send forms?
Fidelity Investments
ATTN: Corporate Rollovers Department
100 Crosby Parkway KC1H
Covington, KY 41015-0037

Need to speak with a Fidelity rollover specialist?
If you have questions or if you have shares of company stock call the number below to speak with a Fidelity rollover specialist.
800-343-3548

 

Step 3: Deposit your money into your Fidelity account

You can have the money sent directly to us to deposit into your account, or deposit it yourself.

Important: The check should be made payable to Fidelity Management Trust Company (or FMTC), FBO [your name]. Be sure to ask your former plan administrator to include your IRA account number on the check.

Please note: When a rollover check is made payable directly to you, you must deposit the money into your IRA within 60 days of receiving the check to avoid income taxes and a possible early withdrawal penalty.


ira-sample-check

Wire directly

Wire instructions

Regular mail

Fidelity Management Trust Company
PO Box 770001
Cincinnati, OH 45277-0037

Overnight mail

Fidelity Management Trust Company
100 Crosby Parkway KC1H
Covington, KY 41015-0037

Mobile check deposit

Use your iPhone®, iPad®, or AndroidTM to scan and deposit checks with our Fidelity Mobile® check deposit.

Bring to a Fidelity Investor Center

Find an Investor Center

Regular mail

Fidelity Management Trust Company
PO Box 770001
Cincinnati, OH 45277-0037

Overnight mail

Fidelity Management Trust Company
100 Crosby Parkway KC1H
Covington, KY 41015-0037

Step 4: Invest your money

For a Fidelity rollover IRA: After you move your money, it's a good idea to make sure it's still invested and aligned with your goals. This is a very important step—investing is how your money has the potential to grow over time.

For a Fidelity Go® rollover IRA or Fidelity® Wealth Services: You don't need to choose or manage your investments—we do that for you based on the information you gave us.

Once your Fidelity Go rollover IRA reaches $25,000, or if you are a Fidelity Wealth Services customer, consider setting up an appointment to review your full financial picture. That's why we're here!

Need help?

Our rollover specialists can help with anything from understanding the options for your old 401(k) to guiding you through each step of the rollover process.