401(k) rollover (vs cash-out)

If you're departing the US (or leaving an employer regardless of immigration status), you have four options for your 401(k): (1) leave it in the plan, (2) roll to a new employer's 401(k), (3) roll to an IRA you control, (4) cash out. Cashing out as an NRA hits 30% FDAP + 10% early-withdrawal penalty (under 59½). On a $200K balance: $80K destroyed. Rolling to an IRA preserves the full balance tax-deferred and you can manage it from abroad. File W-8BEN with the receiving brokerage BEFORE changing your address.