Be careful-don't quit that job just yet-first determine the best date for you.

You've been planning on going into business for yourself or maybe you've got another job offer on the table, so what's your next step? Before you write up your letter of resignation do some research and prudent planning before you hand in the resignation letter.

Your last day on the job should be based on solid research. If your employer has a retirement plan, are you fully vested and when does the employer place funds into your retirement account? What about your 401k, is there a nearby anniversary date, or are matching funds put in your account after January 1st? How about your vesting of the company match in your 401k? Leaving at the wrong time could cost you thousands, perhaps more as you roll the funds into an IRA and it compounds and earns additional funds until you retire. For example, if you're 35, and you leave $5000 on the table, these funds at 8% could be worth nearly $36,000 at age 65.

Instead of quitting December 15th, for example, by working into the next year, could mean extra funds in your 401k. If possible choose your last day of employment based on generating maximum financial benefit to you.

Let's say you're a few weeks short of five years service and at the five year mark you earn three weeks vacation. If you leave now you lose the three weeks vacation pay. Vacation eligibility is just another financial benefit for you to factor into the date of your resignation. Perhaps your employer will then grant you to take your three weeks vacation, push your last date out three weeks and you might qualify for other benefits.

Look carefully at the company's medical plan. Are you covered for the entire month regardless of your last day of work? If so, if may be to your benefit to leave early in the month rather that closer to the end.

Does the company offer discounts on products or services? At some employers they've computer purchase programs and other discounts. Look them over and take advantage of any benefits in this area.

Do you owe the company money or do you’ve money coming from the company? If you’ve a company expense account bring it up to date. If you’ve a bonus coming that might conflict with your departure date, factor that into you decision.

If the new opportunity gives you some flexibility in setting your last day of employment, select the date that'll allow maximizing the benefits from your employer. Once you've made the decision to exit, here is what you need to do to develop all your options.

1. Review the latest copy of the company's benefit manual. Any area that you’ve questions, or you need confirmation go to HR so you can get a clear understanding of the applicable company policy and specific provisions of the retirement and 401k plans.

2. If you've an employment contract make sure you comprehend the terms. Are there any restrictions on who you might work for? Any waiting periods? Any restrictions on starting a business that competes with your employer?

3. Are there any former employees of the company that you can talk to? Did they encounter any problems? Anything they would do differently?

Carefully researching of the best exit date might mean considerable benefits to you, not only this day but in the future.

John Groth is a former HR executive and career coach. Find Career Development Ideas, valuable articles and a free seven day career planning guide