Can You Roll a 401(k) Into an Annuity?

A 401(k) plan serves as a common workplace retirement savings vehicle, allowing employees to contribute a portion of their earnings on a pre-tax basis, often with employer contributions. These funds grow tax-deferred until retirement. An annuity, on the other hand, is a contract with an insurance company designed to provide a steady stream of income, typically during retirement. It functions as a financial product into which an individual makes payments, either as a lump sum or a series of contributions, in exchange for future periodic payments. Generally, it is possible to transfer funds from a 401(k) plan into an annuity.

Understanding the Rollover Process

Transferring funds from a 401(k) into an annuity typically involves a rollover process, which can occur in two primary ways: a direct rollover or an indirect rollover. A direct rollover, often preferred, involves the movement of funds directly from the 401(k) plan administrator to the annuity provider, without the funds ever passing through the account holder’s hands. This method helps prevent potential tax implications and withholding. To initiate a direct rollover, an individual contacts their 401(k) plan administrator to request a distribution and provides them with the new annuity provider’s details.

The plan administrator then sends the funds directly to the annuity company, ensuring proper documentation and avoiding immediate taxation. An indirect rollover involves funds distributed to the account holder first. The account holder has 60 days from receipt to deposit the full amount into a new eligible retirement account, such as an annuity, to avoid taxes and penalties.

If not redeposited within 60 days, the distribution is taxable income. The 401(k) plan administrator typically withholds 20% for federal income tax in an indirect rollover. To avoid full taxation, deposit the entire original distribution, including the withheld 20%, from other sources. Failure to complete the rollover within 60 days results in the withheld amount being treated as a taxable distribution, potentially subject to income tax and an early withdrawal penalty.

Types of Annuities for Rollover

Several types of annuities offer different characteristics and income streams for a 401(k) rollover. A fixed annuity provides a guaranteed interest rate, offering predictable growth and income. The principal is protected, and the interest rate may be guaranteed for a period before resetting, never falling below a contractual minimum. Fixed annuities are chosen for their security and consistent payouts.

A variable annuity allows allocation among investment options, similar to mutual funds. Its value and income payments fluctuate based on underlying investments, offering potential for higher returns but also losses. This type provides tax-deferred growth but carries market risk.

An indexed annuity, or fixed indexed annuity, combines features of fixed and variable annuities. Its returns link to a market index, like the S&P 500, but it offers a guaranteed minimum interest rate or principal protection. While providing market-linked growth, its upside may be limited by caps or participation rates.

Annuities also differ by payment start time. An immediate annuity begins payments soon after purchase, typically within one year, suitable for those needing immediate income. A deferred annuity allows funds to grow tax-deferred during an accumulation phase before payments begin at a future date, offering flexibility for retirement planning.

Key Factors for Decision Making

Rolling a 401(k) into an annuity requires considering several financial factors to align with retirement goals. Annuity fees and charges vary considerably. These include administrative fees (0.25% to 1.75% annually). Variable and fixed indexed annuities often have additional charges, like mortality and expense (M&E) fees (0.5% to 1.5% of contract value), for guarantees such as lifetime income or death benefits.

Many annuities impose surrender charges (5% to 10%) for early withdrawals, typically decreasing over time. Annuities are long-term products; premature access can result in penalties and reduced liquidity. Some contracts allow penalty-free withdrawals up to 10% annually, but exceeding this incurs charges.

Income needs and goals are important. Annuities offer guaranteed income streams, appealing to those seeking predictable, potentially lifelong payments. Balance this desire with liquidity, as annuities are less liquid than other retirement accounts. Understand the complexity of annuity contracts, which can be lengthy and intricate.

Required Minimum Distributions (RMDs) are a factor for annuities in qualified retirement accounts, like 401(k) rollovers. RMDs begin at age 73, requiring annual withdrawals. Annuity payments can satisfy RMD obligations, but ensure the payment schedule meets IRS guidelines. Failing to take RMDs can result in a 25% penalty.

Tax Implications of Annuity Rollovers

Rolling over a pre-tax 401(k) into a non-Roth annuity is generally tax-free at transfer. No immediate income tax is due if executed directly. Like 401(k)s, growth within the annuity remains tax-deferred until distributions. This allows money to grow without annual taxes on interest, dividends, or capital gains.

When distributions are taken from an annuity funded by a pre-tax 401(k) rollover, the entire amount is taxed as ordinary income. This is because original contributions and earnings were tax-deferred. This applies to regular payments or lump-sum withdrawals.

A 10% early withdrawal penalty applies to withdrawals before age 59½, unless an exception applies. This penalty is in addition to ordinary income tax on the taxable portion. Its purpose is to discourage short-term use of retirement accounts and annuities.

RMDs also have tax implications for qualified annuities. If an annuity is in a qualified retirement account, like a 401(k) rollover, RMDs must begin at age 73. These RMDs are fully taxable as ordinary income. While excess income from a qualified annuity can satisfy RMDs for other qualified accounts under SECURE 2.0 Act conditions, distributions remain taxable.