Changing Jobs

Making a Career Move

If you are thinking about changing jobs, or if you have recently made a career move, it's time to take a fresh look at your financial plan. Specifically, you should look at the funds in your employer-sponsored retirement plan account. Your decision about what to do with your money can have significant tax consequences.

Rolling over your money

You can transfer the money in your former employer's plan to an Individual Retirement Account (IRA) or possibly to your new employer's plan. To ensure that the rollover from your retirement plan account remains tax-deferred, you must deposit the entire amount in a new IRA or plan account within 60 days. You can avoid tax withholding and penalties by asking for a direct transfer or trustee-to-trustee transfer of your retirement account balance.

Leaving your assets in your current retirement plan account

You might be able to leave the funds in your former employer's plan where they can grow, tax-deferred. Generally, you will still be able to choose your investments, but you won't be able to make additional contributions. Leaving your funds in the plan might be a good idea if you have significant assets invested and are comfortable with the investment choices offered.

Taking a lump sum

You can always take a lump-sum payout from your plan. However, not only would you owe taxes and possible penalties on the distribution, you would lose the future tax advantages of your retirement nest egg, as well.

A Fifth Third Investment Professional, located in your local banking center, can help review options that best work with your financial goals. To contact a Fifth Third Investment Professional today, visit a nearby Fifth Third Banking Center or call us toll free at 1-800-416-8714.

Fifth Third Bank Investment Advisors does not provide legal, tax or accounting advice. Recommendations and their results may vary with each client.

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