Assuming that it is a Roth IRA and you do know the amount of earnings then enter like this:
*IF* you requested a return of contributions due to an excess contribution and the excess was removed before the extended due date of the 2017 tax return and the earnings were also returned and you know that the IRA custodian will report this as a return of contribution and not as a normal Roth distribution - then:
You can just report it now and ignore the 1099-R when it comes unless there is Box 4 Federal Tax withholding and/of box 12 State withholding. Then you must enter the 2018 1099-R in to the 2018 tax return since the withholding is reported in the year that the tax was withheld. The 2018 code P will not do anything in 2018 but the withholding will be applied to 2018.
You would enter the 1099-R with the total distribution in box 1 (the contribution plus the earnings),
The earnings in box 2a,
Enter code "P" in box 7 (Top) - don t worry that it will say "taxable in 2016 "
Enter code "J" in box 7 (Bottom).
On the "Which year" screen say that this is a 2018 1099-R.
After the 1099-R summary screen press continue.
If you are over 59 1/2 then on the "Lets see if we can lower your tax bill" enter the box 2a amount in the "Another Reason" box to eliminate the 10% early withdrawal penalty on the earnings.
Enter the explanation for the excess contribution and that you are reporting a 2018 1099-R on your 2017 tax return to avoid having to amend in 2018.
The box 2a earnings will be taxable income reported on line 15b on the 1040 form and if under age 59 1/2 will also be subject to a 10% penalty on a 5329 form that will be reported on line 59 on the 1040 form.
**Disclaimer: This post is for discussion purposes only and is NOT tax advice. The author takes no responsibility for the accuracy of any information in this post.**
