Hi Leesh,

You'll want to consolidate and rollover any 401(k) plans from previous employers either into your current 401(k) plan or into an IRA. When you contact each of the 401(k) companies, make sure they make the check payable to the Bank where your new IRA or 401(k) is held.

For example, let's say you have you would like to old Rollover your 401(k) into an IRA at Vanguard, you'll want to open it the IRA first so you have the account number. Then direct the 401(k) company to make the check payable to: Vanguard For the Benefit of Leesh that way it is a direct rollover and not a taxable event. Do not have them make the check payable directly to you.

Hope this helps!

- Brandie Farnam, CFP®