You’ve Moved On. But Your Old 401(k) Hasn’t.

Let’s be honest—dealing with an old 401(k), 403(b), or 457 from a previous job is one of those financial tasks that’s easy to put off. It’s not urgent. It’s not exciting. It sits in the mental junk drawer with “organize the garage” and “cancel that subscription I don’t use.”

But here’s the thing: rolling over that account could be one of the smartest financial moves you make this year.

In our latest podcast episode, we dive into exactly why that old retirement account deserves your attention—and how to make your rollover work for you, not against you.

Step 1: Know What You’ve Got

Before you make any decisions, get clear on your account balance. If it’s under $7,000, your former employer may even have the right to cash you out without your consent—triggering taxes and penalties. If it’s over $7,000, you have more options and control.

👉 Action step: Log in, check your balance, and note the account type.

Step 2: Should You Roll Over to an IRA or New 401(k)?

This is the big question—and the answer depends on your goals.

• A new 401(k) might offer creditor protection and employer matching.

• An IRA gives you more investment choices, lower fees, and full control.

John White walks through how to compare both paths—and why your age, tax bracket, and employer benefits all matter here.

Step 3: Don’t Let Fees Eat Away at Your Future

Old accounts often carry higher fees and limited investment options. These “silent killers” may not seem like a big deal today, but over decades, they can take a serious bite out of your retirement income.

John shares how to spot these hidden costs and how a rollover could help minimize them—especially if you choose a low-fee IRA provider.

Step 4: Explore a Roth Conversion (The Right Way)

Want to potentially save on taxes down the road? A Roth conversion could let you pay taxes now in exchange for tax-free growth and withdrawals later.

But it’s not for everyone. The key is strategy—and that’s where expert guidance really shines. John walks through common Roth conversion mistakes and how to avoid overpaying taxes in the process.

Step 5: Make Sure Your Beneficiaries Are Up to Date

You’d be surprised how many people forget this. An outdated beneficiary designation could send your hard-earned savings to the wrong person—or into legal limbo.

Part of smart rollover planning is ensuring your account reflects your current wishes.

Step 6: Execute the Rollover Smoothly

Once you’ve made your decision, the actual transfer process can be simple—but it’s important to do it correctly. A direct rollover is usually the safest option to avoid unnecessary taxes or penalties.

John outlines a checklist to make sure the process goes smoothly.

Why This Matters

Your retirement money should be working for you—not sitting in a forgotten account, weighed down by high fees or limited investment choices. A rollover can help you:

✅ Consolidate your retirement savings

✅ Cut costs

✅ Improve investment performance

✅ Take more control of your financial future

✅ Align your investments with your long-term goals

And if you’re not sure what the right move is? You don’t have to figure it out alone.

✅ Talk to John White

Are you ready to get your financial house in order? Schedule a call with John White today! With over 30 years of experience helping families navigate the complexities of financial planning, John brings a wealth of knowledge and genuine care to every consultation. 

At Financial Guideposts, we are passionate about guiding you to where you need to be to ensure you and your family live your best, most stress-free life. Our mission is to keep your family financially protected, no matter what happens. Let us help you achieve peace of mind and financial security. Schedule your call with John White now and take the first step toward a brighter financial future.