How to Transfer a Traditional IRA from Fidelity to M1 Finance

Retirement account transfers can feel like navigating a financial maze, especially when you’re trying to find a platform that better matches your investment goals. If you’re thinking about switching platforms, it might be because you’re looking for different features, a new investment approach, or just a better fit for where you are now financially.

Transferring your traditional IRA from Fidelity to M1 Finance doesn’t have to be complicated. When done as a direct transfer, it’s usually a smooth process that keeps your savings tax-deferred and penalty-free. This guide breaks down the steps to help you make the move confidently and without the stress.

At Carry, we want to make financial decisions feel more manageable, even if you’re handling them outside our platform. Please note that while we try to provide the most up-to-date information, these processes are subject to change without notice, so be sure to check with your provider before moving forward. 

Step 1: Understand Your Transfer Requirements

Before you move your Traditional IRA from Fidelity to M1 Finance, it’s helpful to get organized. Each provider has its own process, so having the right info on hand can help everything go more smoothly.

Here’s what you’ll need:

✅ Your Fidelity account number

✅ M1 Finance account login credentials

✅ Social Security Number

✅ Government-issued ID

✅ Most recent IRA statement from Fidelity

📝 Pro Tip: Double check that you’re moving between the same account types (Traditional IRA to Traditional IRA) to avoid complications.

Step 2: Open Your M1 Finance Account

Before initiating the transfer, you must open a “Traditional IRA” account with M1 Finance. Visit their website and complete the online application process, which typically takes about 10-15 minutes. 

✏️ Hypothetical Example: If John wants to transfer his $50,000 Fidelity Traditional IRA, he would first create an M1 Finance Traditional IRA account matching his existing account type.

Step 3: Initiate the Transfer Process

Once your M1 account is set up, reach out to their customer support to initiate the transfer. There are two types you might encounter:

✅ ACAT Transfer (Automated Customer Account Transfer):

✅ Non-ACAT Transfer:

📝 Important: Check whether your current investments are eligible for transfer. Some specialized securities might require liquidation before transfer.

Step 4: Complete Transfer Documentation

M1 Finance will provide a transfer form, which typically asks for:

✏️ Real Example: Sarah chose the “Full Account Transfer” option to move her entire Traditional IRA from Fidelity to M1.

Step 5: Understand Potential Transfer Fees

Before initiating your IRA transfer, it’s important to review the fee policies of both institutions to avoid unexpected costs.

Step 6: Track Your Transfer Status

Monitor your transfer through:

📝 Tip: Most transfers complete in about 7–10 business days, but follow up with customer support if you don’t see any updates after two weeks.

Step 7: Tax Considerations

Traditional IRA transfers between like accounts are typically tax-neutral when executed correctly:

✏️ Hypothetical Example: A $75,000 Traditional IRA transfer from Fidelity to M1 Finance would not trigger taxable events if processed directly.

Step 8: Final Verification

Once the transfer is complete, take a few minutes to confirm:

✅ The balance matches your original IRA

✅ All assets transferred or were properly reallocated

✅ Your beneficiaries and settings are updated in M1 Finance

Final Thoughts: Your IRA Transfer Journey

Transferring your Traditional IRA from Fidelity to M1 Finance doesn’t have to be complicated. As long as you follow the key steps: matching account types, using a direct transfer, and keeping an eye on the timeline—you’ll be in a strong position to make the move without any surprises.

Here’s a quick recap of what to do next:

✅ Verify your account types match

✅ Gather all necessary documentation

✅ Initiate the transfer through M1 Finance

✅ Track the progress and save your confirmations

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Disclaimer:

The Carry Learning Center is operated by The Vibes Company Inc. (“Vibes”) and contains generalized educational content about personal finance topics. While Vibes provides educational content and technology services, all investment advisory services discussed on this website are provided exclusively through its wholly-owned subsidiary, Carry Advisors LLC (“Carry Advisors”), an SEC registered investment adviser. The information contained on the Carry Learning Center should not be construed as personalized investment advice and should not be considered as a solicitation to buy or sell any security or engage in a particular investment, accounting, tax or legal strategy. Vibes is not providing tax, legal, accounting, or investment advice. You should consult with qualified tax, legal, accounting, and investment professionals regarding your specific situation.

The accounts, strategies and/or investments discussed in this material may not be suitable for all investors. All investments involve the risk of loss, and past performance does not guarantee future results. Investment growth or profit is never a guarantee. All statements and opinions included on the Carry Learning Center are intended to be current as of the date of publication but are subject to change without notice.

To access investment advisory services through Carry Advisors, you must be a client of Vibes on an eligible membership plan. For more information about Carry Advisors’ investment advisory services, please see our Form [ADV Part 2A] (https://files.adviserinfo.sec.gov/IAPD/Content/Common/crd_iapd_Brochure.aspx?BRCHR_VRSN_ID=916200) brochure and [Form CRS] (https://reports.adviserinfo.sec.gov/crs/crs_323620.pdf) or through the SEC’s website at [www.adviserinfo.sec.gov] (http://www.adviserinfo.sec.gov/).