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You usually have anywhere from 30 to 90 days to decide if this option is for you, and you can use it if you have at least $5,000 in your account. While this option is easy, especially if you have a good 401(k)plan, you may pay an extra fee to maintain the account, and you may not be able to access your funds for any reason until you retire.

Consolidating all your retirement money into one account makes keeping track of its performance easier for you. Check the plan's investment options to make sure you have access to similar benefits and interests rates as your old plan offered.

An IRA gives you control of your retirement money. With it, you have the freedom and flexibility to choose any combination of investment stocks, bonds and mutual funds. IRAs often charge lower fees than 401(k) plans, too. You may owe taxes, though, if you move your 401(k) funds to an IRA. Ask your former employer to complete a direct transfer from the old 401(k) to your new IRA to avoid taxes.

One hundred thousand, one million or one billion - how much should you save for retirement? Instead of drawing a random number from a hat, use tips from financial planners to prepare for your future. Write Down Retirement Goals  Do you want to travel the world or move closer to your children after you retire? Maybe you anticipate needing long-term medical care or providing for a disabled child. These goals determine how much retirement money you need to save. Calculate Expenses With your goals in mind, calculate your retirement expenses. Figure in cost of living differences if you plan to relocate, and remember that while you won't have commuting costs, you may experience higher medical costs. Calculate Income Social Security, pension funds and IRA withdraws are three possible income sources you'll receive during retirement. Use the annual letter you receive from Social Security and your pension and retirement fund reports to calculate your income from these sources. Set a Target Amount to Save Now that you've outlined expenses and income, you're ready to decide how much money you need to invest. In general, you need to save $20 now for each dollar your retirement expenses exceed your income. So if your expected retirement expenses exceed your projected income by $20,000 a year, you need to save $400,000 in your nest egg. Your financial planner, human resources manager this online calculator can assist you in tabulating how much money you'll need to retire comfortably. Recalculate this figure annually to make sure you're on track to save your target amount. Instead of guessing at how much money you need for retirement, use these tips to create a realistic plan. You can also save 10 to 15 percent of each paycheck, or more if you're older than 30, to give your money time to grow into a healthy nest egg. Consider adding any raises or bonuses to your employer sponsored retirement accounts, too, as you prepare for your future.

How's your relationship with your primary care physician or PCP? Because your doctor diagnoses illness, performs preventative checkups and looks out for your physical wellbeing, you want to build a better relationship as you take care of your health now and into the future. 1. Have an Agenda What do you expect from a doctor visit? Clarify your agenda before you schedule an appointment, and use your list of talking points or questions to keep you on track and ensure your concerns are addressed. 2. Ask Questions Maybe you were taught to follow doctor's orders without question, but times have changed. Doctors are taught now to listen to patients, and you have Dr. Google at your disposal. So don't be afraid to speak up and ask why tests are being prescribed or what information the doctor used to diagnose you. 3. Know Your Medical History While your doctor has access to your chart, he or she may not know all the details of your medical history. Record those details in your medical journal, and bring it to each appointment. Use your family's history of depression, diabetes or cancer to help your doctor treat you. 4. Be Honest Sometimes, you're embarrassed to tell your doctor about your lifestyle or symptoms. However, your doctor uses those details along with test results and a physical exam to determine the correct diagnosis. Honesty goes a long way toward building a trusting and helpful long-term relationship with your PCP. 5.Share Your Preferences Are you committed to a vegan lifestyle, see depression as a weakness or prefer not to be placed on life support? Share these preferences with your PCP so that he or she can help you make health decisions that honor your wishes. Regular doctor visits improve your overall health. Take advantage of your health insurance coverage to see your doctor regularly, and use this list to build a better relationship with your PCP.