Are Roth IRA Beneficiaries Required to Take Distributions?

We are often asked by beneficiaries of a Roth IRA if they are required to take distributions. Roth IRA owners are not subject to taking Required Minimum Distributions (RMDs); however, distributions are required for Roth IRA beneficiaries. Roth IRA beneficiaries are required to elect a distribution option by December 31 of the year following the Roth IRA owner’s death.

Beneficiary options differ depending on whether you are a spouse who is sole beneficiary, a spouse who is not a sole beneficiary, or a non-spouse beneficiary.

If you have any questions on beneficiary options for a Roth IRA, please call one of our IRA experts at 800-821-5104.

• Al Kauffman, Certified IRA Professional, at ext. 2840
• Michelle Roxbury, Certified IRA Professional, at ext. 2876