How to Find Out How Much Is in Your 401(k)

Knowing your 401(k) retirement savings account balance is essential for personal financial planning. This information helps you assess progress toward retirement goals, make informed decisions about contributions, and manage your investment strategy.

Identifying Your 401(k) Plan Information

To find your 401(k) balance, first identify your plan administrator. For current employment, this information is typically available through your human resources (HR) department, which can provide details about the plan administrator and how to contact them. Pay stubs, benefits enrollment documents, and the company’s internal network or intranet often list the plan provider’s name and contact information. Annual benefits statements are also a reliable source.

For those seeking information from previous employers, locating the plan administrator might require a bit more effort. Reviewing old W-2 tax forms can indicate if you participated in a retirement plan with a former employer, as Box 12 on the W-2 may list this. Final pay stubs or any benefits statements received after leaving a job can also contain the name of the plan administrator.

Accessing Your 401(k) Account Details

Once you have identified your 401(k) plan administrator, accessing your account balance can be accomplished through several methods. The most common approach is online access via the administrator’s website. You will typically need to create an online account if you haven’t already, using personal identifying information such as your Social Security number and date of birth. After logging in, navigate the portal to find sections like “Account Summary,” “Current Balance,” or “Portfolio Value.”

Alternatively, you can obtain your balance by contacting the plan administrator directly via phone. The customer service number is usually found on any statements you may have received or on the administrator’s website. Be prepared to verify your identity by providing information such as your Social Security number, account number, or date of birth.

Reviewing physical or electronic statements is another reliable way to check your 401(k) balance. Employers are generally required to provide statements at least annually, and for participant-directed plans, these statements are typically sent quarterly, usually within 45 days after the end of the quarter. These statements provide a snapshot of your account’s activity, including contributions, investment performance, and the current total account value. Ensure your personal information, contributions, and any employer matching funds are accurately reflected on these documents.

Retrieving Information for Previous Employers

Finding 401(k) information from past employers can present unique challenges, especially if significant time has passed or the company’s status has changed. A good starting point is to contact the HR department of your former employer. They may be able to provide details about the plan administrator at the time of your employment or direct you to where your account was moved. When contacting them, be ready to provide your full name, Social Security number, and dates of employment to help them locate your records.

If the former company no longer exists or has been acquired by another entity, tracing your 401(k) may require additional resources. The Department of Labor’s Employee Benefits Security Administration (EBSA) offers an Abandoned Plan database and a newer Retirement Savings Lost and Found database, established under the SECURE 2.0 Act, which can help individuals locate benefits from private-sector plans. These online tools often allow searches by employer name or plan name, and the Retirement Savings Lost and Found database requires identity verification through Login.gov for access. Additionally, the National Registry of Unclaimed Retirement Benefits is a secure database where companies list unclaimed retirement plan account balances, which can be searched using your Social Security number. State unclaimed property databases are also a potential resource, as some abandoned funds may be turned over to the state.