...job to investment w/8% return? My dad wants to roll his over at his current job because someone told him that he would get a better return from another type of investment. I think a friend of his is an FA but he hasnt been able to contact him again after. Is this possible? 8% return? And what about the rule of 72?

I don't think you can rollover an existing account at a current employer, unless the plan is terminated. He would have to separate his employment - not a good idea just because someone "claims" to have an 8% return. http://www.irs.gov/taxtopics/tc424.html

also check http://www.irs.gov/retirement/index.html

If he is not happy with his current allocation, there is a website called http://www.smart401k.com/ that will charge you for a recommendation of which funds are available to your dad. It may be something he might want to consider.

The reason I am skeptical of the 8% return is that most prudent advisors don't "promise" your return - because they can't always make good on it. The FA also has not disclosed how much it will cost your dad to earn this 8% (e.g., commissions, fees, etc.).