Confused About IRA Distributions?

Confused.

That's exactly how I would describe most investors when they hear about distributions from IRAs and qualified retirement plans.

First, let's blame this on the lawmakers. If there's a way to confuse a simple rule or law, they sure have a knack for doing it. The whole idea of taking money from these accounts would have probably been simpler if it had been even years like 60 and 70 without the half stuff thrown in there.

Oh well. I guess we have to live with it.

Recently I discussed what to do with funds that you are required to take called Required Minimum Distributions (RMDs). Now I want to cover early or regular distributions. These withdrawals can be taken at 59-and-a-half without a penalty.

Here's the confusion, you can take money at any time in any amount, however before 59-and-a-half you will pay a 10% penalty and applicable taxes. This age is simply the time that the penalty disappears.

Got it?

Remember, you are not required to take a single penny out of your IRA until you reach 70-and-a-half.

Now let's say you want to, or need to take a stream of income from this IRA before 59-and-a-half. Can you avoid the penalty? Yes.

An IRS rule that allows for penalty-free withdrawals from an IRA account. The rule requires that, in order for the owner to take the money penalty-free, he or she must take at lease five "substantially equal periodic payments". The amount depends on the owner's life expectancy with IRA approved calculation methods.

So here are the rules:

59-and-a-half and under - 10% penalty and taxes OR
59-and-a-half and under - 72 (t) distributions and pay taxes but avoid 10% penalty 59-and-a-half - taxes
70-and-a-half - must take distributions and pay taxes

Hopefully this clears things up. If not, call or email and we be glad to go over your particular situation. If you liked the article. No taxes or penalties will be assessed!