RMD's can be deferred if still employed at 72. Does consulting and receiving 1099''s qualify as "employed" and allow RMD deferral?

[Ragnars]

The tax code states RMD's can be deferred if "employed", but one can't own more than 5% of the business.  Does consulting and receiving 1099's qualify as "employed"?  Does the 5% rule apply to self-employed consulting? 

[Critter-3]

If you are talking about a 401K at a job where you are still currently an employee then you are not required to take an RMD as long as you are still employed with that employer.   

[Ragnars]

No, I am not talking about a 401K at a job where you are still currently an employee.  I am asking about being a consultant and getting 1099's as a self-employed consultant that files consulting income and expenses on schedule C.  Does this constitute "employment" for the treatment of deferring RMD's?

[Critter-3]

No.