u/Curious_George56

Helping my mom transfer a ~$210k traditional IRA from TransAmerica → Vanguard. Running into conflicting info.

Facts:

• All assets are proprietary TransAmerica funds (can’t transfer in-kind → must liquidate)
• Goal = direct trustee-to-trustee transfer (avoid taxes)
• TransAmerica only has ~20 proprietary funds to choose from and difficult to withdraw money when she needs it

TransAmerica says:

• They must initiate (won’t accept Vanguard request)
• Will liquidate and make check payable to Vanguard
• Claim it’s not taxable if done correctly

Questions:

1. Should I initiate the transfer request from Vanguard or TransAmerica?

Trying to avoid an accidental taxable event—appreciate any insight.