The deadline to roll over a 401k depends entirely on which method you use. Here are both.
How long do you have to roll over a 401k?
If you do a direct rollover, there is no deadline you need to track, because your old plan sends the money straight to your IRA. If you do an indirect rollover, where the plan pays you, the IRS gives you 60 calendar days from the day you receive the funds to deposit them into an IRA or another qualified plan. Miss that window and the entire amount becomes taxable, with a possible 10% penalty if you are under 59 1/2. There is generally no rush to move a left-behind 401k, but acting deliberately avoids forgotten accounts. Call 1-800-MEDIGAP at 1-800-633-4427 for help.
What if you miss the 60-day deadline?
If you miss the 60-day indirect-rollover deadline, the IRS normally treats the money as a taxable distribution. In limited situations, you may qualify for a waiver, such as a self-certification for reasons like serious illness, a financial-institution error, or a misplaced check, but approval is not guaranteed. The safest approach is to avoid indirect rollovers entirely and use a direct, trustee-to-trustee transfer that carries no deadline. If you already received a check and the clock is ticking, deposit it into an IRA as soon as possible.