I received a 1099-r but never cashed my check... do I still file it?

[DDollar · Accepted solution]

Yes.  You have "constructive receipt" of the distribution.  You should report the Form 1099-R.  If you do not, what you file will not match what the IRS has on record,and you will at some point receive a letter from the IRS wanting you to pay tax on that amount.  You will also be subject to penalties and interest on any tax owed.

[nikkiey21]

Great! Thank you! If I decided to cash or transfer it to another option... Would it effect this year's taxes?

[DDollar]

No, you had 60 days to roll it over to another IRA account.  You could contact the issuer and ask if it could be cancelled and funds redeposited, but I don't think that's possible.