Please note: The Fund portability rules outlined below apply only to employees who began participating in the Fund before January 1, 2026. If you were enrolled in the Fund after January 1, 2026, please see this page.
What happens to my account if I leave my employment with a YWCA?
Since you are already 100% vested in your account you will have several options. You can choose to receive all or part of your account or you can leave it with us until you reach 73.
What if my account value is $1,000 or less?
You will automatically receive a single lump-sum payment after you retire or terminate, unless you instruct us prior to the distribution to roll over the account to another employer's plan or to an IRA.
What are my payment options if my account value is less than $5,000 but greater than $1,000?
You may still receive either 100% or 50% of your account as a lump sum that can be rolled over to another employer's plan, to an IRA, or directly to you. Only accounts with a balance of $5,000 or more qualify for an annuity.
What are my payment options if my account value is greater than $5,000?
If your account is greater than $5,000 you can receive:
•50% or 100% of your total account value paid as a lifetime monthly annuity.
•50% or 100% of your total account value paid in a lump sum that can be rolled over to another employer's plan, to an IRA, or directly to you.
Are there any special rules if I want to withdraw my after-tax account?
You may request a distribution equal to the balance of your optional employee after-tax contributions and interest credits. As per IRS guidelines, a portion of this distribution will be tax-free at the time of payment. The remaining non-taxable balance will either be converted into an annuity, should you elect this option, or paid to you as a lump-sum distribution when you choose to receive the remainder of your benefit. Your unpaid balance will continue to accumulate interest. If you request either a 50% or 100% lump-sum distribution of your non-optional account, then you must also withdraw a portion of your optional account, subject to IRS rule.
How do I apply for a distribution from my account?
You may contact our Member Services team to request an options package with the necessary instructions.
What if I choose to leave my account with YWCARF until a later date?
All employee accounts are 100% vested. After you terminate your employment with a YWCA you may leave your account with us until you reach age 73. It will continue to earn monthly interest credits.
If I leave my account with YWCARF how will I know what the balance is?
We will send you an annual Statement Of Account. You will generally receive it in February of the following year. It is extremely important that you keep your current address on file with us. If we can't locate you, we can't mail your statement.
Can I continue to participate in YWCARF after leaving YWCA employment?
No. YWCARF is a benefit that is only provided to active employees of YWCAs within the U.S.