ICF International 401(k) Plan
A guide to thinking through your 401(k) as a ICF International employee.
By Zac Murphy, CFA charterholder, CFP® professional. Last reviewed June 30, 2026.
Employers in facilities services, staffing, and similar service-sector businesses typically offer 401(k) plans, though structures and matching contributions vary widely. Higher industry turnover means vesting timing and rollover decisions often come up more frequently than in lower-turnover sectors.
Common questions
What's a vesting schedule and why does it matter in higher-turnover industries?
A vesting schedule determines when employer contributions become fully owned by the employee. In industries with higher turnover, leaving before fully vesting means forfeiting a portion of employer contributions. The specifics depend on the plan's vesting structure.
What are the options for a 401(k) balance after leaving an employer?
Options generally include leaving the balance in the former employer's plan, rolling it into a new employer's plan, rolling it into an IRA, or taking a distribution. Each option has different implications for fees, investment choices, creditor protection, and tax treatment.
What considerations apply when consolidating multiple small 401(k) balances?
Employees who have worked at multiple employers may have several small 401(k) balances spread across former plans. Whether to consolidate them, and into which type of account, depends on fees, investment choices, ease of management, and personal preferences.
Decisions about 401(k) contributions, vesting, and consolidating balances across employers depend on individual circumstances. A financial advisor can help review the specifics.
Common challenges
Rollovers are messier than they look. Leave it, roll to a new plan, roll to an IRA, or cash out — each has different tax, fee, and access tradeoffs. Cashing out before 59½ usually triggers tax plus a 10% penalty. Most people delay the decision and lose track of old accounts.
Knowing if you're on track is hard. The real question depends on spending, Social Security timing, healthcare, and taxes — assumptions most calculators skip.
If any of these apply to your situation, the contact info below is the fastest way to start a conversation.
Have any questions about your 401(k)? Reach out to us by email or phone at the contact info below.
Email: [email protected]
Phone: (904) 654-3336
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This page is for educational purposes only and does not constitute investment, tax, or legal advice.