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Returning Member
posted Mar 6, 2021 9:04:01 AM

How are we supposed to enter a 1099 R_LS death benefit so it doesn't look like one of us retired?

0 6 1879
6 Replies
Level 15
Mar 6, 2021 9:07:48 AM

You still enter the 1099-R it in Federal > Wages and Income > Retirement.  The distribution code in Box (is it 4?) will tell the program that it's a death benefit.  It may still be taxable, though.

Level 15
Mar 6, 2021 9:09:23 AM

or did you get a 1099-LS instead?  If so, see this:

I entered the amount of my 1099-LS in turbo tax i... (intuit.com)

Returning Member
Mar 6, 2021 11:03:06 AM

At the top it says 1099 R and on the side it says 1099 R _ LS.

Across the top is says Statement of Survivor Annuity Paid.

It is a small one time death benefit from MIL's retirement.

When we enter it as a 1099 R it acts like one of us retired.

 

Returning Member
Mar 6, 2021 11:06:35 AM

yes the distribution code is 4.

Returning Member
Mar 29, 2025 11:36:50 PM

I am in the same situation.  I received a small death benefit from my brother's estate.  I entered the 1099-R_LS with Distribution Code 7 (Death Benefit), yet Turbo Tax still thinks I retired and is asking me about my "retirement plan" and "annuity".  Please help!

Expert Alumni
Apr 2, 2025 4:40:38 PM

This is because code 7 is a normal distribution code for retirement income. It was coded incorrectly.  Enter this income here instead.

 

  1. Log into your account
  2. Select Wages and income
  3. Less Common income
  4. Miscellaneous Income, 1099-A, 1099>start
  5. Scroll to the bottom of the page to Other Reportable Income
  6. Other taxable income, answer yes
  7. Then give a brief description of the income and the amount listed. Call this 1099-R Death Benefit and then the amount.