General education, not personalized advice. Confirm current rules at the sources below.
The four paths
Depending on plan rules, you can generally leave money in the old plan, move it to a new employer’s plan, roll it to an IRA, or take a distribution. A cash distribution can be taxable and may carry an additional tax if taken early.
A comparison list
Compare total costs, investment choices, services, access rules, loan availability and legal protections. These differ between plans and IRAs and depend on your state and situation.
Watch for conflicts
Someone recommending a rollover may be paid if you move the money. Asking how they are compensated, and for the comparison in writing, is reasonable.
Do it directly
A direct rollover sends funds institution to institution. The IRS explains how timing and withholding work for indirect rollovers; confirm the current rules at irs.gov.