IRA Distribution recording on line 5 instead of line 4

[mdherrera]

My 1099-R for my IRA distribution (RMD) is recording on line 5 (Pensions) instead of line 4 (IRA Distributions). Checking the IRA/SEP/SIMPLE box should move the distribution to line 4. but my 1099-R does not have the IRA/SEP/SIMPLE box checked. What do I do?

[dmertz]

"my 1099-R does not have the IRA/SEP/SIMPLE box checked."

That implies that the distribution is, in fact, not from an IRA.  Keep in mind that a 401(k), a 403(b), a 457(b) and the federal TSP are not IRAs.  Also, nonqualified annuities and insurance policies are not IRAs.

[mdherrera]

The 1099-R is from a 401k plan, but I have been retired for years. I thought the IRS considers a 401k as an IRA once you are retired.

[ThomasM125]

No, the distribution from a 401-K plan would not be considered a distribution from an IRA account. It is possible to roll a 401-K plan balance to an IRA account, but that does not happen automatically when you retire.