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.


Want to transfer another type of IRA, such as a Roth or Traditional IRA? Transfer here

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. In either case, having the check made payable to Fidelity allows the transaction to be a direct rollover versus a 60-day rollover which often includes taxes being withheld from your rollover amount.

The check should be made payable to Fidelity Management Trust Company (or FMTC), FBO [your name] and does not need to be endorsed. Be sure to ask your former plan administrator to include your IRA account number on the check.

See check example

Wire directly


When sending a direct rollover from an employer plan to a retirement account, include code DRC.


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

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.



Mobile check deposit

Use the Fidelity Investments app for your mobile check deposit.

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

Bring to a Fidelity Investor Center


Find an Investor Center

Step 4: Invest your money

I'll invest my IRA on my own

Once your money is in your IRA, you need to get it invested. This is a very important step—investing is how your money has the potential to grow over time.

Learn about IRA investment options

Help me manage my investments

We can help with a range of professionally managed solutions for rollover, Roth, and traditional IRAs. While these services do charge a fee, you'll enjoy peace of mind knowing a team is keeping a close eye on the markets and the investments in your account every day.

Learn about professionally managed solutions

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.