This article sets expectations for how long it takes to move retirement money to your Retired.com account — and explains why the biggest variable is usually your current provider, not us.

An IRA-to-IRA transfer is initiated on our side once your signed transfer form and a recent account statement are in good order. From there, the timeline mostly depends on how quickly your current custodian releases the funds — some process requests in a few business days, others take a few weeks. Two things commonly add time: custodians that require an original "wet" signature rather than an electronic one, and in-kind transfers (moving assets as-is rather than as cash), which typically take a little longer than cash transfers.

A rollover from a 401(k) or other employer plan is initiated by you with your current plan administrator, so the timeline depends on their process. Most plans send funds by check rather than wire. Once the check is received, you'll be sent a rollover certification form to sign — funds post to your account after that form is complete. If the check is sent to you rather than directly to Digital Trust, our custodian, forwarding it adds mail time; and if you're doing an indirect rollover, remember the funds must be redeposited within 60 days to avoid taxes and penalties.

Submit forms promptly and completely, make sure your statement shows your name, account type, account number, and current custodian, and respond quickly if we reach out about requirements like a Medallion Signature Guarantee. For status: once a transfer request has been sent to your current custodian, they're usually the right party to ask; for anything on our side, contact the Service Team.

Can you speed up my current custodian? We submit requests in good order and follow their required process, but release timing is theirs. Following up with them directly is often the most effective nudge.

Do in-kind transfers take longer? Usually somewhat longer than cash transfers, since assets move as-is between custodians. There's no additional fee for an in-kind transfer.

When can I start trading? Once funds post to your account and show as available cash. You'll see the balance on your Dashboard. If funds arrived but haven't posted, a required form may still be outstanding — see My funding is delayed — what to do.

Is a rollover taxable while it's in transit? A direct rollover between retirement accounts isn't taxable, though it is reported to the IRS. An indirect rollover must be completed within 60 days to stay tax-free. We recommend consulting a tax advisor or attorney for guidance specific to your situation.

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