Systems and methods for User Equipment (UE) context retrieval and data forwarding to support Small Data Transmission (SDT) are provided. In some embodiments, a new network node can request an old network node for UE context retrieval and data forwarding if the UE in RRC_INACTIVE state sends small data to the new network node. In some embodiments, the old network node decides whether to relocate the anchor for UE context to the new network node or rejects the relocation. The request includes either or both of (a) an indication that the UE context retrieval is related to a SDT performed by the UE and (b) UE assistance information that informs the old network node that the UE has started a SDT procedure.