Retirement & Savings

What Is a Rollover?

A rollover is the transfer of money from one retirement account to another — for example, from a former employer's 401(k) into an IRA or a new employer's plan — without it being treated as a taxable distribution, as long as the rules are followed.

Direct vs. Indirect Rollover

In a direct rollover, funds move straight from one account custodian to another. In an indirect rollover, the owner receives the money and must deposit it into the new account within 60 days; the original plan may withhold tax, which must be made up to avoid it counting as income.

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🔗 Related Terms

401(k) Plan Traditional IRA Roth Conversion Vesting

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Last updated: September 27, 2026. This definition is for general educational purposes only. It is not financial, investment, tax, legal, or medical advice, and it does not recommend any product or course of action. For decisions about your own situation, consult a qualified professional.