Merrill 401(k) Provider Review

Merrill Lynch charges administrative fees that vary by plan size. Expense ratios range from 0.03% - 1.5%, and advisory fees are 0.45% - 1.5%. Compare plans carefully as total costs depend on your plan size and investment selections.

You can log into your Merrill Lynch 401(k) account through the plan provider portal. Current and former employees can use the participant login page. First-time users will need to register with their Social Security number and date of birth.

Merrill Lynch ranks #8 in our 2026 provider rankings with a score of 8.0/10. They manage $3.0 trillion in assets and serve 5 million participants. They are particularly strong for BofA customers, Advice seekers, Large employers, Full-service needs.

Yes, you can roll over your Merrill Lynch 401(k) to a Traditional IRA, Roth IRA, or a new employer plan. A direct rollover avoids mandatory tax withholding. Contact Merrill or your new provider to initiate the transfer.

Merrill Lynch offers a range of investment options including Mutual Funds, ETFs, Stocks, Bonds, Target Date Funds, Managed Portfolios. The specific fund lineup depends on your plan and may change periodically.

Merrill Lynch scores 8.0/10 overall with ratings of 3.3/5 for fees, 4.5/5 for investment options, 4.1/5 for customer service, and 4.2/5 for mobile app. Compare with other top providers on our comparison pages.

To roll into Merrill: Merrill accepts rollovers from 401(k), 403(b), 457(b), and IRA accounts through Benefits OnLine or at any Bank of America branch. Rollovers into a Merrill Edge IRA qualify for Preferred Rewards benefits. To roll out: Request an outbound rollover through Benefits OnLine or by calling 888-968-4015. Merrill processes direct rollovers to IRAs and new employer plans. No outgoing transfer fees. Use the Benefits OnLine platform to manage your rollover.

Merrill Lynch offers withdrawals via Online via Benefits OnLine, Phone (888-968-4015), Bank of America branches. Distribution options include Lump sum, Partial withdrawal, Installment payments, Rollover to IRA. Merrill offers in-person withdrawal assistance at Bank of America financial centers. Financial Solutions Advisors can help plan your distribution strategy.

Merrill 401(k) plans may allow loans up to $50,000 or 50% of the vested balance. Repayment through payroll deduction over up to 5 years (longer for home purchase). Interest rate is typically prime + 1%. Apply through Benefits OnLine.