Let’s get real: working with a traditional advisor, they’re probably recommending a rollover because they want assets under management, and with that come fees—often hidden in share classes like A-shares (up to 5.75% upfront) or 12b-1 fees (0.25%–1% annually). That’s money out of a retirement for advice that often boils down to “pick a few mutual funds and check in once a year.”
Asking what I do with my accounts?
Yes, I roll it over—but not to an advisor.
I do a direct rollover into a Vanguard (or Fidelity or Schwab) IRA, where I can invest fee-free and self-directed. My personal approach would be:
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80% into an S&P 500 ETF (like Vanguard’s VOO or SPY)
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20% into Baron Partners Fund (BPTRX) for long-term growth and active management exposure
This gives ultra-low fees, tax-deferred growth, and full control—without handing over a cut of wealth for a handshake and a quarterly email.
But hey, it’s just money. Just know: the fewer mouths feeding on a retirement, the more to enjoy it in retirement!