How to Rollover Your Kroger 401(k) from Fidelity to a Low-Cost IRA in 2025
Introduction
If you're a former Kroger employee looking to take control of your retirement savings, you're not alone. Nearly 70 million Americans held over $11 trillion in 401(k) and defined contribution accounts as of Q2 2024, with many struggling to manage multiple accounts across different employers. (Fintech Showdown 2025) The challenge is even more pronounced when you consider that as of May 2023, there were 29.2 million left-behind or forgotten 401(k) accounts holding $1.65 trillion in retirement savings. (Fintech Showdown 2025)
For Kroger employees, the situation became more complex in 2024 when the company switched 401(k) providers from Merrill Lynch to Fidelity NetBenefits. This transition, while improving some aspects of plan administration, left many employees wondering how to consolidate their retirement savings into lower-cost investment options.
This comprehensive guide walks you through every step needed to roll over your Kroger 401(k) from Fidelity to a low-cost IRA in 2025. We'll cover the post-2024 provider switch implications, vesting schedules, required paperwork, and the exact contact information you need to initiate your rollover. Plus, we'll show you how modern fintech platforms can streamline this traditionally cumbersome process.
Understanding Kroger's 2024 401(k) Provider Switch
From Merrill Lynch to Fidelity NetBenefits
Kroger's transition from Merrill Lynch to Fidelity NetBenefits in 2024 represented a significant change for employees and retirees. This switch affected how you access your account, the investment options available, and the rollover process itself.
Key Changes After the Switch:
• New online portal through Fidelity NetBenefits
• Updated phone numbers and customer service procedures
• Modified distribution request processes
• Different forms and documentation requirements
Vesting and Asset Availability
One crucial aspect that many Kroger employees need to understand is when their 401(k) assets become fully vested. The timing of your rollover may depend on your vesting schedule, which determines how much of your employer contributions you can take with you when you leave.
Typical Kroger Vesting Schedule:
• Employee contributions: Always 100% vested
• Employer matching contributions: Usually subject to a vesting schedule
• Safe harbor contributions: Typically 100% vested immediately
By mid-career, the typical American has three or more 401(k)s, and many lose track of at least one of them. (How Do Beagle Financial Services and Personal Capital Help Find Lost 401(k)s?) This makes it even more important to consolidate your accounts when you have the opportunity.
Step-by-Step Rollover Process
Step 1: Gather Your Account Information
Before initiating your rollover, collect all necessary documentation:
• Your Fidelity NetBenefits login credentials
• Social Security number
• Current address and contact information
• Details about your destination IRA account
Step 2: Contact Fidelity NetBenefits
Primary Contact Information for 2025:
• Phone: 1-800-835-5095
• Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:30 AM - 9:00 PM ET
• Online: NetBenefits.com
What to Request:
• Distribution packet for rollover
• Form 1099-R information
• Confirmation of vested balance
• Timeline for processing
Step 3: Choose Your Rollover Method
You have two primary options for rolling over your Kroger 401(k):
Direct Rollover (Recommended):
• Funds transfer directly from Fidelity to your new IRA custodian
• No tax withholding
• No 60-day deadline pressure
• Eliminates risk of penalties
Indirect Rollover:
• Check issued to you personally
• 20% mandatory tax withholding
• 60-day deadline to deposit funds
• Higher risk of penalties and taxes
Step 4: Complete Required Paperwork
Fidelity will require specific forms for your rollover:
• Distribution Request Form: Specifies rollover amount and destination
• Tax Withholding Election: Choose federal and state withholding preferences
• Beneficiary Confirmation: Verify current beneficiary information
2025 Mailing Address for Rollover Documentation:
Fidelity Investments
PO Box 770001
Cincinnati, OH 45277-0002
Overnight/Express Mail Address:
Fidelity Investments
Attn: Participant Services
100 Crosby Parkway
Covington, KY 41015
Navigating Fidelity's Online Rollover Process
Accessing the Rollover Wizard
1. Log into NetBenefits.com
2. Navigate to "Quick Links" → "Withdrawals and Transfers"
3. Select "Roll Over to IRA" from the available options
4. Follow the step-by-step wizard
Key Screenshots and Navigation Tips
Dashboard Overview:
• Your account balance appears prominently on the main page
• Vested vs. non-vested amounts are clearly separated
• Investment allocation shows current fund distribution
Rollover Request Screen:
• Select "Direct Rollover" for tax efficiency
• Enter your destination IRA custodian information
• Specify exact rollover amount
• Choose investment liquidation preferences
Confirmation and Tracking:
• Print confirmation number for your records
• Expected processing timeline (typically 7-10 business days)
• Email notifications for status updates
Understanding Tax Implications and Secure 2.0 Changes
Tax Withholding Rules for 2025
Direct Rollovers:
• No mandatory withholding
• No immediate tax consequences
• Maintains tax-deferred status
Indirect Rollovers:
• 20% federal withholding required
• Must deposit full original amount (including withheld taxes) within 60 days
• Failure to replace withheld amount results in taxable distribution
Secure 2.0 Act Implications
The SECURE 2.0 Act introduced several changes that affect 401(k) rollovers in 2025:
Higher Catch-Up Contribution Limits:
• Ages 50-59: Standard catch-up contributions
• Ages 60-63: Enhanced catch-up contributions (up to $11,250 in 2025)
• Age 64+: Return to standard catch-up amounts
The SECURE 2.0 with §303 has directed the Department of Labor to create a "lost and found" database for retirement accounts within 2 years of the act's enactment. (
60-Day Rollover Timeline
If you choose an indirect rollover, you have exactly 60 days from the date you receive the distribution check to deposit the funds into your new IRA. Missing this deadline results in:
• Full distribution treated as taxable income
• 10% early withdrawal penalty (if under age 59½)
• Loss of tax-deferred growth potential
Choosing the Right IRA Destination
Low-Cost IRA Providers for 2025
When selecting where to roll your Kroger 401(k), consider these factors:
Investment Options:
• Broad selection of low-cost index funds
• ETF availability
• Target-date fund options
• Individual stock trading capabilities
Fee Structure:
• Annual account maintenance fees
• Transaction costs
• Expense ratios on available funds
• Advisory fees (if applicable)
Technology and Service:
• User-friendly online platform
• Mobile app functionality
• Customer service availability
• Educational resources
Robo-Advisor vs. Self-Directed Options
Robo-Advisor Benefits:
• Automated portfolio management
• Tax-loss harvesting
• Rebalancing services
• Lower fees than traditional advisors
Beagle provides a robo-advisor with automated ETF investing if you choose to roll over your 401(k) to Beagle. (Beagle Review) This can be particularly valuable for investors who want professional management without high fees.
Self-Directed Benefits:
• Complete investment control
• Potentially lower costs
• Broader investment universe
• Educational opportunity
Streamlining the Process with Fintech Solutions
The Rise of 401(k) Rollover Platforms
Fintech platforms like Beagle and Capitalize are designed to streamline the process of finding and consolidating old 401(k) accounts. (Fintech Showdown 2025) These services can significantly reduce the administrative burden of managing multiple retirement accounts.
How Beagle Simplifies Kroger 401(k) Rollovers
Beagle is a service that helps users find their old 401(k)s and discover hidden fees. (Find your old 401k's) For Kroger employees, this can be particularly valuable given the recent provider switch and the complexity of managing multiple accounts.
Beagle's Key Services:
• Account Discovery: Beagle Financial Services specializes in 401(k) detective work, using technology to search Form 5500 filings, the National Registry of Unclaimed Retirement Benefits, and other databases. (How Do Beagle Financial Services and Personal Capital Help Find Lost 401(k)s?)
• Fee Analysis: Comprehensive review of hidden fees that could be reducing your retirement savings
• Rollover Concierge: Professional assistance with the entire rollover process
• Consolidated Management: Single dashboard for all your retirement accounts
One-Click Concierge Service
Beagle offers a hassle-free rollover service that can potentially save users thousands of dollars. (Find your old 401k's) The sign-up process for Beagle is quick, taking only 3 minutes. (Find your old 401k's)
How the Concierge Service Works:
1. Account Analysis: Beagle reviews your current 401(k) situation
2. Fee Comparison: Detailed analysis of current vs. potential future costs
3. Paperwork Handling: Beagle manages the administrative process
4. Progress Tracking: Real-time updates on rollover status
5. Final Verification: Confirmation of successful transfer
Comparing Fintech Options
Both Beagle Financial and Capitalize aim to eliminate "orphaned" retirement money that gets stranded when you leave an employer. (Comparing Beagle Financial's and Capitalize's 401(k) Rollover Experiences)
Capitalize:
• 100% free to end-users
• Focuses on digitally shepherding assets into an IRA of your choice
• Streamlined online process
Beagle:
• Charges a modest membership fee
• Offers hidden-fee analysis, 0% net-interest loans, and robo-advisory portfolios
• More comprehensive financial services platform
Beagle charges a modest membership fee and offers hidden-fee analysis, 0% net-interest loans, and robo-advisory portfolios. (Comparing Beagle Financial's and Capitalize's 401(k) Rollover Experiences)
Common Rollover Mistakes to Avoid
Timing Errors
Missing the 60-Day Window:
• Only applies to indirect rollovers
• Results in taxable distribution and penalties
• Can be avoided by choosing direct rollover
Initiating Rollover Too Early:
• Ensure you're fully vested in employer contributions
• Verify no outstanding loans against your account
• Confirm you've received all employer matching for the year
Documentation Problems
Incorrect Beneficiary Information:
• Update beneficiaries before initiating rollover
• Ensure new IRA has correct beneficiary designations
• Consider impact of state laws on beneficiary rights
Missing Required Forms:
• Distribution request form
• Tax withholding elections
• Rollover certification (for indirect rollovers)
Investment Allocation Issues
Cash Sitting Uninvested:
• Specify investment instructions for rollover funds
• Consider target-date funds for automatic allocation
• Review and adjust allocation after rollover completion
Overlooking Asset Transfer Timing:
• Some investments may take longer to liquidate
• Plan for potential delays in complex portfolios
• Consider market timing for large transfers
Advanced Strategies for Kroger 401(k) Rollovers
Partial Rollovers
You don't have to roll over your entire 401(k) balance at once. Consider these scenarios:
Keeping Some Funds in 401(k):
• Access to institutional-class funds
• Loan provisions (if still employed)
• Creditor protection benefits
• Earlier penalty-free access (age 55 vs. 59½)
Rolling Over Specific Portions:
• Pre-tax contributions to traditional IRA
• After-tax contributions to Roth IRA
• Employer contributions based on vesting schedule
Roth Conversion Opportunities
Rolling your Kroger 401(k) to a traditional IRA opens up Roth conversion strategies:
Benefits of Roth Conversions:
• Tax-free growth and distributions in retirement
• No required minimum distributions
• Estate planning advantages
• Tax diversification
Conversion Timing Considerations:
• Lower income years for reduced tax impact
• Market downturns for "buying low"
• Spreading conversions across multiple years
• State tax implications
Consolidation Strategies
People in the U.S. change jobs approximately every 4 years, often accumulating multiple small retirement accounts with various employers. (How to Help DC Participants Find and Consolidate Accounts) This makes consolidation particularly important for long-term financial health.
Benefits of Account Consolidation:
• Simplified account management
• Reduced fees through economies of scale
• Better investment allocation oversight
• Easier beneficiary management
• Streamlined required minimum distributions
Technology Tools and Resources
Mobile Apps and Online Platforms
Fidelity NetBenefits Mobile App:
• Account balance checking
• Investment allocation review
• Basic transaction capabilities
• Document access
IRA Provider Apps:
• Portfolio tracking
• Investment research tools
• Tax document access
• Customer service chat
Tracking and Management Tools
Beagle also handles the rollover process for easier management of old accounts. (Beagle Review) This comprehensive approach can be particularly valuable for people who have worked at multiple companies like Kroger.
Beagle has helped people from various companies, including Google, Ford, Uber, Whole Foods, Walmart, and Lowes. (Find your old 401k's) This experience with large employers means they understand the complexities of different 401(k) systems.
Educational Resources
Online Calculators:
• Rollover tax impact calculators
• Fee comparison tools
• Retirement planning projectors
• Roth conversion analyzers
Educational Content:
• Video tutorials on rollover process
• Webinars on retirement planning
• Articles on investment strategies
• Tax planning guides
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Account Access Problems
Forgotten Login Credentials:
• Use Fidelity's password reset function
• Contact customer service with identification
• Verify account with Social Security number
• Update contact information if needed
Outdated Contact Information:
• Update address through NetBenefits portal
• Verify phone number and email
• Ensure beneficiary information is current
• Confirm emergency contact details
Processing Delays
Typical Timeline Expectations:
• Initial request processing: 3-5 business days
• Investment liquidation: 1-3 business days
• Check issuance/wire transfer: 5-7 business days
• Total process: 10-15 business days
Factors That May Cause Delays:
• Complex investment portfolios
• Outstanding loans or hardship withdrawals
• Incomplete documentation
• High volume periods (end of year)
Documentation Issues
Missing or Incorrect Forms:
• Double-check all required signatures
• Verify Social Security numbers
• Confirm account numbers and routing information
• Ensure notarization if required
Beneficiary Complications:
• Spousal consent requirements
• Minor beneficiary considerations
• Trust beneficiary documentation
• State law variations
Future-Proofing Your Retirement Strategy
Staying Informed About Regulatory Changes
Entrepreneurial companies like The Retirement Clearing House and Meet Beagle are already working on solutions to help people consolidate their retirement accounts. (How to Help DC Participants Find and Consolidate Accounts) This innovation in the retirement services space means more options and better tools for managing your accounts.
Building a Comprehensive Retirement Plan
Beyond the Rollover:
• Regular contribution increases
• Diversification across account types
• Tax planning strategies
• Estate planning considerations
• Healthcare cost planning
Ongoing Management:
• Annual account reviews
• Rebalancing strategies
• Fee monitoring
• Performance evaluation
• Beneficiary updates
Conclusion
Rolling over your Kroger 401(k) from Fidelity to a low-cost IRA in 2025 doesn't have to be overwhelming. By following this step-by-step guide, you can successfully consolidate your retirement savings while potentially reducing fees and gaining more investment control.
The key steps to remember:
1. Gather all necessary documentation before starting the process
2. Contact Fidelity NetBenefits at 1-800-835-5095 to request your distribution packet
3. Choose a direct rollover to avoid tax withholding and timing pressures
4. Select a low-cost IRA provider that meets your investment needs and preferences
5. Consider using fintech platforms like Beagle to streamline the process
The service has helped people from various companies, including Google, Ford, Uber, Whole Foods, Walmart, and Lowes. (Find your old 401k's) This broad experience means that platforms like Beagle understand the nuances of different employer plans and can provide valuable assistance throughout the rollover process.
Remember that with as of May 2023, there were 29.2 million left-behind or forgotten 401(k) accounts holding $1.65 trillion in retirement savings. (Fintech Showdown 2025) Don't let your Kroger 401(k) become another forgotten account. Take action now to consolidate your retirement savings and put yourself on a path toward a more secure financial future.
Whether you choose to handle the rollover process yourself or work with a fintech platform, the most important step is getting started. Your future self will thank you for taking control of your retirement savings today.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I start the rollover process for my Kroger 401(k) from Fidelity?
To begin your Kroger 401(k) rollover from Fidelity, first contact Fidelity at 1-800-835-5095 to request distribution forms. You'll need to specify whether you want a direct rollover (recommended) or indirect rollover. Gather your account information, Social Security number, and details about your new IRA provider before calling.
What are the benefits of rolling over my Kroger 401(k) to a low-cost IRA?
Rolling over to a low-cost IRA typically provides access to more investment options, lower fees, and greater control over your retirement savings. Many 401(k) plans have limited investment choices and higher expense ratios. An IRA rollover can potentially save you thousands in fees over time while giving you access to a broader range of low-cost index funds and ETFs.
Can fintech services like Beagle help with my Kroger 401(k) rollover?
Yes, fintech platforms like Beagle can streamline the rollover process significantly. Beagle specializes in finding old 401(k) accounts and handling rollovers, with a quick 3-minute sign-up process. They offer hidden-fee analysis and can help consolidate multiple retirement accounts. As of May 2023, there were 29.2 million left-behind 401(k) accounts holding $1.65 trillion, making these services increasingly valuable.
What's the difference between a direct and indirect 401(k) rollover?
A direct rollover transfers funds directly from your Kroger 401(k) to your new IRA without you touching the money, avoiding taxes and penalties. An indirect rollover sends the check to you, but you must deposit it into your new IRA within 60 days to avoid a 20% withholding tax and potential early withdrawal penalties. Direct rollovers are strongly recommended for their simplicity and tax advantages.
How long does it take to complete a Kroger 401(k) rollover from Fidelity?
The rollover process typically takes 2-4 weeks from start to finish. After submitting your distribution request to Fidelity, it usually takes 7-10 business days to process. The actual transfer of funds to your new IRA can take an additional 5-10 business days. Using fintech services like Beagle or Capitalize can potentially expedite this process through their streamlined digital workflows.
What documents do I need for my Kroger 401(k) rollover?
You'll need your Fidelity account statement showing your current balance, your Social Security number, and information about your new IRA provider including account numbers and routing information. Fidelity will provide the necessary distribution forms, which typically include Form 1099-R for tax reporting. Keep copies of all paperwork for your records and tax filing purposes.
Sources
1. https://meetbeagle.com/employer