How can I determine whether or not a distribution from an IRA is a RMD or not?

[macuser_22 · Accepted solution]

If you are 70 1/2 or older it is a RMD.

Virtually all pension plans, defined benefit plans, and annuities in existence today fall under section 401 of the tax code.

Required minimum distributions for defined benefit plans and annuity contracts all require RMD's after age 70 1/2.  If you receive periodic (monthly) payments from any pension plan you can be assured that the custodian of the plan is meeting the requirements so you can safely answer "yes" to the question.

The rules that the plan administrator must use to calculate the RMD as required by §401(a)(9) are defined in § 1.401(a)(9)-6) of the Internal Revenue Code (IRC).

The answer to the question does not go on your tax return, it is simply to make sure you do not owe any penalty for not taking the RMD or use it for an ineligible rollover.

The question is just to be sure that the requirement was met.

https://ttlc.intuit.com/replies/3302117

[dad-2018]

thanks!

[macuser_22]

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@dad-2018 wrote:
thanks!

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@dad-2018 - This is a *2019* question and answer.   The tax law has been changed for 2020 and beyond.

The Retirement Enhancement Act of 2019 (SECURE Act) became law on December 20, 2019. The Secure Act made major changes to the RMD rules. If you reached the age of 70½ in 2019 the prior rule applies, and you must take your first RMD by April 1, 2020. If you reach age 70 ½ in 2020 or later you must take your first RMD by April 1 of the year after you reach 72.

And, because of COVID-19, the CARES Act of 2020 eliminated the RMD requirement  for 2020 on IRA's and employer retirement plans for everyone reguardless of age. (Certain pensions and non IRA's or 401 type plans still have 2020 RMD's).