Transferring your IRA to M1 is easy—even if your current brokerage does not use the ACATS (Automated Customer Account Transfer Service) system. This guide walks you through every step, including expected timelines, how to track your transfer, and what to do if you encounter issues.
When to use this process
Use these instructions if:
Your current brokerage does not participate in ACATS.
You need to transfer an IRA (Traditional or Roth) to your M1 IRA using a check or non-ACATS method.
If your brokerage does support ACATS, use the standard M1 account transfer process.
Steps to transfer an IRA to M1 (Non-ACATS)
1. Open an M1 IRA account
If you haven’t yet, open the appropriate IRA account with M1:
Traditional IRA: Maintains pre-tax, tax-deferred status if your current account is also Traditional.
Roth IRA: Maintains tax-free status if your current account is Roth.
Note: We do not provide tax or legal advice. Changing account types may have tax consequences. Contact your current provider for clarification.
2. Initiate the transfer with your current brokerage
Visit your current brokerage’s website or contact their support.
Request a transfer (also called a “rollover” or “direct rollover”) to your M1 IRA.
Ask your provider:
Are any special requirements needed (letter of acceptance, Medallion signature, specific forms)?
Will the check be mailed to Apex Clearing or directly to you?
Will there be any fees for outgoing rollovers? (Some brokerages charge a transfer or request fee.)
Is your account registration (name, SSN, address) an exact match between both institutions? If not, update them before initiating the transfer.
If you are unsure of the contact info for your retirement account, check your statement or contact your previous employer’s HR/benefits department.
3. Rollover check mailing instructions
Provide your current brokerage with these details:
The check must be made payable to “Apex Clearing”
Include your name and your M1 IRA account number in the memo line
Mail the check to:
Apex Clearing c/o BPO
350 North St. Paul Street #1300
Dallas, TX 75201
Request the check be mailed directly to Apex Clearing.
If your check is sent to you instead:
Forward it to the above address.
If the check is payable to you (not Apex Clearing), endorse the back before mailing.
Note: Use certified mail or tracking for added security. Keep a copy of any mailing/receipts until your funds arrive.
4. Prepare your M1 IRA for deposit
Ensure your M1 IRA account is open and active.
If you have auto-invest enabled, your funds will automatically be invested upon deposit.
You can adjust your Pie allocation at any time (learn how).
Timeline expectations
Mail delivery: Allow up to 14 days for a mailed check to reach Apex Clearing.
Check processing: After receipt, checks are typically deposited into your M1 IRA within 1–3 business days.
Total estimated time: Most non-ACATS rollovers complete within 2–3 weeks, but can be delayed if there are paperwork errors or additional brokerage requirements.
Fees to consider
$3 monthly IRA fee applies unless you have over $10,000 in assets, an active Personal Loan, or already pay a $3 platform fee.
M1 does not charge fees to receive IRA transfers.
Your sending brokerage may charge an outbound transfer or check processing fee. Contact your current provider to confirm any fees before initiating the transfer.
How to track your transfer status
After mailing: Use any available tracking number to confirm delivery to Apex Clearing.
Processing: Once received, M1 will notify you by email that your IRA rollover funds have been deposited. You will also see the deposit in your account transaction history.
If you do not see any deposit or do not receive an email confirmation after 14 business days from mailing, contact M1 Client Success with your tracking details and account info.
What confirmation will I receive?
You will receive an email from M1 once your funds are deposited in your IRA.
The deposit will be reflected under your recent transactions.
If auto-invest is on, you’ll also see new investment activity in your Pie.
Troubleshooting & common issues
Check was returned or not accepted:
Double-check that the check was made payable to “Apex Clearing” and included your account number and name.
Name or account mismatch may cause rejection—ensure all information matches at both institutions.
Transfer is delayed:
Confirm the check has been mailed and delivered to the Apex Clearing address.
Check for any required forms or documentation pending with your old provider.
No confirmation or deposit after two weeks:
It may take up to 14 days to process after mailing. If it's been longer, please contact M1 support.
This content was generated using artificial intelligence and is intended for informational and educational purposes only. While reasonable efforts are made to ensure accuracy, AI-generated outputs may omit key context; and should not be construed as financial, investment, legal, or tax advice. Users should independently verify all information and consult a qualified professional before making any financial decisions.
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