Like any other type of income, inherited annuities are taxable. The timing of the tax event depends on the payout structure and your status as a beneficiary. For example, assume that you inherit an annuity from your spouse, and you choose to stick with the original payment structure, or the 'as-is' option.
You could opt to take any money remaining in an inherited annuity in one lump sum. You'd have to pay any taxes due on the benefits at the time you receive them. Five-year rule: The five-year rule lets you spread out payments from an inherited annuity over five years, paying taxes on distributions as you go.
