Transamerica 401k Rollover: How to Transfer Your Account
Step-by-step guide to rolling over your Transamerica 401(k) to an IRA. Avoid taxes and penalties with proper transfer.
Key Takeaways
- 1Transamerica rollovers can be done online or by calling 1-800-755-5801
- 2Direct rollover avoids 20% mandatory withholding
- 3Process takes 7-14 business days typically
- 4Compare fees before rolling to Transamerica IRA vs alternatives
- 5Gold IRA provides diversification beyond Transamerica funds
- 6Keep copies of all transfer documentation
- 7No tax consequences if done as direct trustee-to-trustee transfer
Transamerica 401(k) Rollover Overview
Transamerica is a major retirement plan administrator serving thousands of employers. When you leave your job, you can roll your Transamerica 401(k) to an IRA of your choice - you're not required to stay with Transamerica.
- Rollover rights activate when employment ends
- Can roll to any IRA custodian, not just Transamerica
- Roth 401(k) portions roll to Roth IRA
- Process is similar whether you quit, retired, or were laid off
- Contact Transamerica at 1-800-755-5801 for assistance
Your Transamerica Rollover Options
Consider all your options before deciding where to roll your money.
| Option | Best For |
|---|---|
| Transamerica IRA | Convenience, familiar platform |
| Fidelity/Schwab/Vanguard | Lower fees, more fund options |
| Gold IRA | Diversification, inflation protection |
| New employer 401(k) | Keep money in 401(k) structure |
| Leave in Transamerica 401(k) | Not recommended - limited options |
Step-by-Step Rollover Process
Follow these steps to roll over your Transamerica 401(k) without mistakes.
- 1Verify you're eligible (left employer or meet in-service requirements)
- 2Open an IRA at your destination provider
- 3Log into ta-retirement.com or call 1-800-755-5801
- 4Request distribution/rollover forms
- 5Select "Direct Rollover" as distribution type
- 6Provide your new IRA custodian's information
- 7Submit forms (online, fax, or mail)
- 8Allow 7-14 business days for processing
- 9Verify funds arrive at new IRA
Choose Direct Rollover
Always select "direct rollover" or "trustee-to-trustee transfer." If you take a check in your name, Transamerica withholds 20% for taxes.
Exploring your retirement options?
Our 60-second quiz matches you with the right account type
What to Watch Out For
Avoid these common Transamerica rollover mistakes.
- **Surrender charges**: Some Transamerica funds have early surrender fees
- **Outstanding loans**: Must be repaid or treated as distribution
- **Vesting**: Non-vested employer contributions stay behind
- **Paper forms**: May take longer than online process
- **Check made payable wrong**: Should be to new custodian "FBO" you
Consider a Gold IRA Rollover
Transamerica 401(k) plans offer traditional stock and bond funds, but no physical precious metals. Many Transamerica participants rolling over discover Gold IRAs as a way to diversify.
- Physical gold as inflation hedge
- Diversification beyond paper assets
- Same direct rollover process - no tax consequences
- Can split rollover: part to Gold IRA, part to traditional IRA
- Augusta Precious Metals: top-rated Gold IRA company
- Free Gold IRA guide explains the process
Frequently Asked Questions
1How long does a Transamerica rollover take?
Typically 7-14 business days from submission to funds arriving at your new IRA. Allow extra time for mailed paperwork or check requests.
2Are there fees to roll over from Transamerica?
Transamerica generally doesn't charge rollover fees, but some underlying investments may have surrender charges. Check your specific fund holdings.
3Can I do a partial rollover?
Yes. You can roll over a portion and leave the rest in your Transamerica 401(k), or split between multiple IRAs.
Related Articles
Helpful Guides
Interactive Tools
Ready to Protect Your Retirement?
Join thousands of Americans who have secured their savings with physical gold. Augusta Precious Metals makes the process simple.