The main thing is do your homework and own research so you and make an informed decision.

pkbmaine did it right. get good advice that makes logical sense. keep emotions out of it and expect the unexpected if you are taking control ie how to make up for loss years etc.

The best advice is to get good advice. Let me suggest you also make sure the advice you get is in your own best interest. Currently there are two standards that financial planners are held to - the suitability standard and the fiduciary standard. Do some research and fully understand the difference. Then make sure your advisor is a fiduciary and is willing to put it in writing. A fiduciary must always put your interest ahead of his own, and will never sell you an investment product for the sake of lining his own pocket.

Does the value increase each year or is it frozen?

I had my retirement lump with several Advisor's on the Barron's top 100 list. As for "Fiduciary Responsiblity" it looks good on paper but when you have losses based on your Advisor's lack thereof, the rude awakening comes when you can't find a lawyer to take the case unless there is a dollar amount followed by at least 6 0's. Can you say REIT?

The value is frozen and will not increase.

Thanks to everyone for your feedback!!

Then roll to an IRA. If you are not sure about investments get a target dated mutual fund or stock marker index fund.