If your retirement balance was moved out of your account and is lower than you expected, or you're worried about taxes and fees, this article explains your employer match, how taxes work for each choice, and where to find your plan's fees.
Why is the amount moved less than I expected? What happened to my employer match?
Employer contributions become yours over time, based on your plan’s rules. If you left before some of that money was fully yours, it stays with the plan when your account is moved. This is called an unvested balance. Your plan's rules determine how long you must work before employer contributions become yours. View our “What Does Vesting Mean?” for more information.
If you return to work for the same employer within five years, you may have a right to buy back the amount that was given up. If you think this applies to you, contact your employer's plan team.
Will I owe tax on this?
Whether or not you owe tax depends on what happens to your money. Here is how your main choices work:
- A direct rollover to an IRA. This isn't taxable now. You will get a Form 1099-R showing code G, which notifies the IRS that the money was rolled over.
- Taking the money as cash. Federal tax of 20% is taken out before you're paid. If you're under age 59 ½, you may also owe an additional 10% tax. Your state may also charge tax.
- If you do nothing, your balance moves into a Vestwell IRA by default.
This is general information and not tax advice. Please consult a tax professional with any questions or concerns that you have pertaining to your individual circumstances.
What fees apply to my plan?
The fees for your plan are listed in your plan's fee disclosure. To find your plan’s fee disclosure, sign in to your saver portal, navigate to the “Plan” tab, and view it under Documents.