<prompt> Human: I had a 401k with my previous employer but was laid off in 2008. Unfortunately my current employer does not offer a 401k so Ive left the old 401k alone. Today I received my quarterly statement from John Hancock, and the balance is now ZERO and the whole value of the account now appears in the money out section! There is a note that says Your group annuity contract with John Hancock USA has been discontinued, and the money in that qualified retirement plan has been distributed according to your plan trustees instructions. Please speak to your plan administrator for further information.I really dont know anything about this sort of thing unfortunately. Can someone explain what happened? Did my former employer just steal my retirement account? Help!  <response>: Generally a preferred option to roll over old 401k403b plans to an IRA unless you have something unique in the plan you cant buy on your own.Is the company still in business and operating? Assuming yes, my best guess is the plan is changing investment providers so everyones account is moving over at once. Either way, give HRplan admin a call today or Monday and ask. There may also be a servicing phone number or website for you to calllog into to ask or look for announcements. 