Why sign in to the Community?

  • Submit a question
  • Check your notifications
Sign in to the Community or Sign in to TurboTax and start working on your taxes
Returning Member
posted Jun 7, 2019 3:22:27 PM

Forth ROTH IRA, do we need to wait 5 years to withdraw the original/contribution (NOT earnings)?

Forth ROTH IRA, do we need to wait 5 years to withdraw the original/contribution (NOT earnings)? I thought the 5 year rule only applies to earnings and NOT original principle but I hear mixed stories. I need some clarification. 

For example, if I contribute 6000 in 2019 , by 2020 my account grow to 7000. In 2020 I take out only 6000 leaving the 1000 earning in the account . The 6000 (principle) should be tax and penalty free right? 

0 5 1823
5 Replies
Level 15
Jun 7, 2019 3:22:29 PM

Correct.  You can receive a distribution of your original $6,000 of contributions at any time, tax and penalty free.

Level 15
Jun 7, 2019 3:22:30 PM

"Forth Roth IRA" - do you mean this is your fourth Roth IRA and you already have 3 others?

If so, then the 5 year rule is satisfied if you have owned any Roth IRA for 5 years, unless it is a Roth conversion, in which case, each Roth conversion has it's own 5 year clock.

Level 15
Jun 7, 2019 3:22:32 PM

The 5-year rule for qualified distributions is only relevant if the Roth IRA owner is age 59½ or over, disabled, deceased or is using the money to purchase a first home.

Returning Member
Jun 7, 2019 3:22:34 PM

Sorry I meant to say for Roth IRA. Not forth...my question was for any Roth IRA contribution

Level 15
Jun 7, 2019 3:22:34 PM

A dmertz said, you can always withdraw your own contributions tax and penalty free at any time.