When you can roll over a 403(b)
After you leave your employer
Once you've separated from service, whether you retired, changed jobs or were laid off, your 403(b) balance can generally be moved to an IRA at any time.
While you still work there
Plans decide whether to allow in-service rollovers. Many permit them from age 59½. Your plan's summary plan description or benefits office will tell you what's allowed.
The annuity question
Many 403(b) accounts, especially in schools, are held in annuity contracts rather than mutual funds. Annuities can carry surrender charges if you move money out within a set number of years. Before rolling over, ask your provider for a written statement of any surrender charge, and weigh it against your reasons for moving. Sometimes waiting until the charge period ends saves real money.
How to do it
- Confirm you're eligible and check for surrender charges.
- Open a self-directed IRA through a gold IRA company. See how to open a gold IRA.
- Request a direct rollover from your 403(b) provider, payable to the new custodian. That avoids the 20% withholding. See rollover vs transfer.
- Once the funds arrive, choose IRS-approved metals for the depository.
Pre-tax 403(b) money goes into a traditional IRA. Roth 403(b) money should go into a Roth IRA.
Our recommended provider's free kit walks through workplace-plan rollovers, and its team coordinates with your plan provider. Best fit if you have $50,000 or more to move.
Request the Free KitWhat about a 457(b)?
Many public employers offer a 457(b) alongside a 403(b). Governmental 457(b) plans can usually be rolled into an IRA after you leave the job. One difference to know: 457(b) money can normally be withdrawn after separation without the 10% early-withdrawal penalty, while IRA money can't before 59½. If you might need the cash before then, think twice about rolling a 457(b).
Frequently asked questions
Can I keep contributing to my 403(b) after a partial rollover?
Usually yes, if you still work there. A partial in-service rollover doesn't close the account.
Is a 403(b) rollover different from a 401(k) rollover?
The process is almost identical. The main differences are the annuity surrender charges and which employers offer each plan. See our 401(k) guide.