Roth IRA conversion checklists

If you've decided on a Roth IRA conversion for your existing retirement account, you can get started on your own or have one of our investment professionals help you every step of the way.

Use the checklist below for your specific account type or call 800-343-3548 to start the process.

Deadline: December 31 of the tax year – if this date falls on a weekend, the processing deadline is 4 pm ET on the last business day of the year

Steps in converting to a Roth IRA

A Non-Fidelity IRA

Step 1: Open a Fidelity traditional IRA

Step 2: Transfer the existing IRA assets to your new Fidelity traditional IRA

Step 3: Convert your IRA onlineLog In Required


A Fidelity IRA

Convert your IRA onlineLog In Required
Follow this simple process online.


If you prefer, you can download and mail in a Fidelity Roth IRA Conversion form (PDF); or call 800-544-6666 for assistance.

When converting a traditional IRA, keep in mind:

  • If you are required to take a required minimum distribution (RMD) in the year you convert, you must do so before converting to a Roth IRA.
  • RMD amounts are not eligible to convert to a Roth IRA.
  • Generally, converted assets in the Roth IRA must remain there for at least five years to avoid penalties and taxes.
  • A distribution from a Roth IRA is tax-free and penalty-free, provided the 5-year aging requirement has been satisfied and one of the following conditions is met: age 59½, disability, qualified first-time home purchase, or death.
  • RMD rules do not apply to Roth IRA original owners.

Note: As of 2018, IRA owners are no longer allowed to reverse Roth IRA conversions. Consult your tax advisor before processing a Roth IRA conversion to prepare for any additional tax consequences.

If you qualify, you can roll over assets from your old 401(k) directly to a Roth IRA.

Converting a 401(k) serviced by Fidelity

Step 1: Open a Fidelity Roth IRA
Follow this simple process online to open your Roth account.

Step 2: Call the plan's toll-free number located on your statement and a Fidelity representative will assist you in rolling over your assets to your new Fidelity Roth IRA.

Converting a 401(k) serviced by another financial institution

Step 1: Open a Fidelity Roth IRA
Follow this simple process online to open your Roth account.

Step 2: Call 800-343-3548 or visit an Investor Center. A Fidelity representative will assist you in rolling over your assets to your new Fidelity Roth IRA.

When converting an old 401(k), keep in mind:

  • If you have yet to take your required minimum distribution (RMD) in the year you plan to convert to an IRA, you must take the RMD before converting to a Roth IRA.
  • You'll owe taxes on the amount of pretax assets you roll over.
  • Note that if you have assets in a Designated Roth Account (i.e., Roth 401(k)) and would like to roll these to an IRA, you can only roll these assets over into a Roth IRA.

Additional resources

Learn about converting to a Roth IRA

Compare Traditional and Roth IRAs