Check old pay stubs for 401(k) deductions and plan provider names
Review past W-2 forms for retirement plan contributions
Contact former employers’ HR or benefits departments
Search old emails, mail, and account statements for plan information
Log in to any known retirement plan websites
Use the National Registry of Unclaimed Retirement Benefits
Search the U.S. Department of Labor’s abandoned plan database
Contact the plan administrator listed on old documents
Call the recordkeeper or financial institution tied to the plan
Check with the current employer if you rolled the account over
Search for missing accounts using your Social Security number and personal details
Review bank or brokerage accounts for rollover deposits
Use the IRS transcripts to identify retirement-related records
Contact the Pension Benefit Guaranty Corporation if the plan was terminated
Keep your name, former employer names, dates of employment, and SSN ready