You've packed up your things, said your goodbyes and you're headed out the door. Whether you're retiring or just changing jobs, make sure you don't make a costly mistake with the money you've accumulated in your employer's retirement plan.

Consider your options carefully. You could leave your money where it is, if allowed, or move it to your new employer's retirement plan, if there is one. You could take the money and spend it. Or you could move it ("roll it over") directly to another tax-deferred account, such as a rollover individual retirement account (IRA) from Allstate.

Spend it

It's tempting, but if you take the cash and splurge, you'll be spending money meant for your retirement years. Also, your employer must withhold 20% from the distribution as a "down payment" on your federal income-tax bill for the year. And depending on your age, there could be a 10% early withdrawal penalty as well; some exceptions apply. Bottom line: You may end up with a lot less money than you expected.

Roll it over and keep it working for you

There's a smarter option — move your money in a direct rollover to an Allstate IRA so all your retirement dollars will stay invested tax deferred. An IRA from Allstate gives you a wide selection of investment options.* Every investment option is professionally managed. You make the decision how to allocate the money in your IRA but can leave the technical investing details to the professionals.

* Because subaccount values fluctuate, redeemed shares may be worth more or less than their original value. Past performance won't guarantee future results. An investment in subaccounts may result in the loss of principal, involve risk and are offered by prospectus only, which you can get from your registered representative. Carefully consider investment objectives, risks, charges and expenses of the investment company before investing. The prospectus will include this and other information; read it carefully before investing. Investing involves risks and there is no guarantee that any one strategy protects against a loss in a declining market. You should discuss with your financial professional regarding your particular situation.

Securities offered by Personal Financial Representatives through Allstate Financial Services, LLC (LSA Securities in LA and PA). Registered Broker-Dealer. Member FINRA and SIPC, Main Office: 2920 South 84th Street, Lincoln, NE 68506, 877-525-5727. Life insurance and fixed annuities issued by Allstate Life Insurance Company: Northbrook, IL; Lincoln Benefit Life Insurance Company: Lincoln, NE; and American Heritage Life Insurance Company: Jacksonville, FL. In New York, Allstate Life Insurance Company of New York: Hauppauge, NY.

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