Read the vesting schedule like a contract
Cliff vesting can mean leaving one month early forfeits a year of match. Graded schedules unlock percentages over years. Your contributions are yours; the match may not be.
Ask HR for the exact plan document language — summary slides omit cliffs.
Time exits when dollars are large
If a cliff is weeks away and the match is material, calculate whether delaying a switch pays more than the new offer's raise for that month.
Do not stay in a toxic role for pennies — but do not leave five figures on the table by accident.
Rollover without orphaning old plans
After you leave, decide rollover targets carefully to avoid unnecessary taxes and fees. Keep beneficiary forms updated across every old 401(k).
Future offers should be compared on total compensation including match quality and vesting speed, not salary alone.