NO, it makes no difference. If this was for a deferred retirement plan or an annuity, the distribution to you will most likely be taxable, either all or in part. The trustee should indicate in Boxes 1 and 2 the entire distribution and, if only partially taxable, the taxable part. Be sure that the code in Box 7 is a "4", meaning the distribution is due to the death of the account owner. This will prevent the IRS from asserting that an early distribution penalty should apply.