Find Your Old 401k - Retirement Savings Lost & Found
Easily locate forgotten retirement accounts like 401(k)s, pensions, and other employer-sponsored plans. Learn how the database works, who it's for, and how to securely access your information to reclaim the benefits you've earned.
Understanding the Retirement Savings Lost & Found Database
The Retirement Savings Lost and Found Database helps individuals recover lost or forgotten retirement accounts, including 401(k)s, 403(b)s, pensions, and other employer-sponsored plans. Created by the U.S. Department of Labor under the SECURE 2.0 Act, it provides a centralized way to find retirement savings from previous employers. With workers changing jobs more frequently, this tool makes it easier to track down your benefits and ensure you receive the money you've earned.
How To Access The Database
- Verify your identity through Login.gov To keep personal information secure, participants must first register with valid legal identification.
- You will then be redirected to the Lost and Found Database to search for retirement plans using their social security number, or visit https://lostandfound.dol.gov/
- Search for retirement plans using your Social Security number
How It Works
- Plan sponsors provide retirement plan information to the database.
- Data is submitted by authorized plan administrators and service providers.
- Available for individuals who participated in private-sector or union-sponsored retirement plans.
- Includes both defined benefit (pensions) and defined contribution plans (401(k), 403(b), 457 plans).
- Displays retirement plans associated with a Social Security number.
- Provides contact details for plan administrators.
Important Notes:
- Plan administrators determine eligibility and available benefits.
- Does not include Individual Retirement Accounts (IRAs).
- Does not cover government or certain religious organization plans.
- Does not include Social Security benefits.
For Plan Sponsors
The effectiveness of the database depends on accurate and complete data submission.
Workforce mobility has increased significantly. Individuals born between 1957–1964 held an average of 12.7 jobs between ages 18 and 56. Each job change increases the likelihood of losing track of retirement accounts.
To support the system:
- Plan sponsors must submit accurate and updated information
- Recordkeepers and service providers must have fiduciary authorization before submitting data
- Participation from administrators and third parties is essential to success
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