Thank you to all of you who pointed out my error in this video! The cheat sheet has it right, but I spoke incorrectly. If you have had your Roth IRA funded for 5+ years AND you are over age 59.5 then there is not a separate 5-year requirement for each conversion. Sorry for the error and thank you to all of you who brought this to my attention 🙏
Thank you for clarifying the 5-year rule if over 59.5 and had your Roth for 5+ years. After viewing your presentation, my initial reaction was 'WTF?' Did the IRS change the 5-yr rule -- No, you just got it wrong. Appreciate your correction.
Your videos are among the best out there and you have taught me a lot, but this is a big deal for those (like me) who are 59.5+ YO and choose to fund Roths with an IRA conversion. I would not be doing that if each conversion were subject to its own 5-year curing period, which is what you said in the video. I respectfully suggest that you consider updating the video rather than acknowledging the error with a comment. Thank you for all of your good work!
I'm glad that age 59.5 eliminates the conversion 5 year clocks. I was going to start converting next year and having a 5 year clock was going to complicate my life! The video is confusing with that error. Any way to at least add a text popup or caption in the video? Also, if you do end up redoing it to correct this error, might I suggest a white board or some visual presentation? It is a video after all, and frankly watching your face adds no value (to me), while it was hard to track all the numbers just from your speaking.
Few years ago, I told my son to open a Roth IRA with $100 to start the clock on the 5 years rule, one less thing for him to worry about for when he is ready to contribute.
Hello James, Thank you for your explanation of Roth contribution and conversion. However, I do not agree with your comment for the Conversion Rule, if you are over 59 and half year and you had the account for more than 5 years (like the gentleman who asked you the question). In the IRS exception rule, he would be allowed to pull money out of his distribution immediately, if needed! I may be wrong, but I heard in many of the CZcams videos, and also Fidelity told me. This is in IRS publication 590 B, page 33 where the exceptions are for avoiding taxes.
I agree with you. Publication 590-B page 32 has a flowchart showing that any ROTH starts the 5 year clock for all contributions and conversions ( as I read it )
I believe since Manfred is over 59 1/2 , the conversion is available to withdraw tax and penalty free. The growth he earns on the conversion must meet the 5 year rule. He paid the taxes on the conversion the year he converted it to the Roth.
I think the important point is stated at 3:00. Money that is contributed or converted, into your Roth, can be taken out at anytime, with no penalty. It’s the “Growth” that may be affected by the 5 year rules.
I don't think anybody knows. I would like to see it on the irs.gov website. I found it once but am unable to locate the same page. I'm pretty sure it stated specifically that the money converted wasn't available penalty free for 5 years. Both growth and initial investment. My only concern is that they were referring to a newly opened Roth.
@@toantruong7901Most sources say that once any ROTH that you’ve ever had hits 5 calendar years, then this rule is satisfied for all contributions and all conversions.
I've listened to several other video's where the Roth "rules" were explained. This was easily the most concise explanation and used an easy to understand example that walked through the different possible scenarios. Well done.
Thank you for the walk-through on roth conversions. It was very helpful and well thought out. Our situation is similar to Manfred's and your conclusion was very enlightening. Yes, we need to adopt the attitude that these conversions are not for short term spending... it needs to sit there and grow.
“Distributions of conversion and certain rollover contributions within 5-year period. If, within the 5-year period starting with the first day of your tax year in which you convert an amount from a traditional IRA or roll over an amount from a qualified retirement plan to a Roth IRA, you take a distribution from a Roth IRA, you may have to pay the 10% additional tax on early distributions. You must generally pay the 10% additional tax on any amount attributable to the part of the amount converted or rolled over (the conversion or rollover contribution) that you had to include in income (recapture amount). A separate 5-year period applies to each conversion and rollover. See Ordering Rules for Distributions, later, to determine the recapture amount, if any. The 5-year period used for determining whether the 10% early distribution tax applies to a distribution from a conversion or rollover contribution is separately determined for each conversion and rollover, and isn't necessarily the same as the 5-year period used for determining whether a distribution is a qualified distribution. See What Are Qualified Distributions, earlier.” JAMES CANOLE, I think what you and about 1/3 of related CZcams videos miss is the last sentence in the above paragraph. The 5 year clock on conversion withdrawals does not reset with each conversion for those over 59-1/2 because we met the Qualified Distributions Rules earlier (in the paragraphs above this one) www.irs.gov/publications/p590b#en_US_2023_publink100089543
James...thanks a million for the Roth IRA decision metric flow chart-it definitely explained the complicated Roth IRA or Roth Conversion IRS rules in layperson terms. Most important-thanks-for the explanation at the end of the video where you advised that anyone contemplating during Roth Conversion (where the goal should be to leave the money in the Roth account) to grow tax-free [for decades]) to take advantage of the Rule of 72-compounding interest-where one is allowed the conversion(s) to double, triple, and so forth in value. And most important allowing one to avoid RMDs.
James, I am 64 and established a ROTH back between 2006 to 2011. During that time period, I made deposits and yearly Traditional IRA conversions into the ROTH. Those are long since settled. I set up a ROTH conversion this week and I had taxes withheld. This conversion is a “tanked” stock position that had lost considerable value. I have a second similar conversion that will probably be made at the first of the year again with taxes paid at conversion. Both stocks can recover in the ROTH and hopefully increase the value. I appreciate this video as it answers quite a few questions.
This was very helpful. I am Not 59.5 yet, but have a Roth IRA since 2012. The message I am getting is that everybody could benefit by investing $ into Roth IRA, esp. since you could take out ur contribution if absolutely needed it. Obviously want to have emergency fund set up first, but really good video for back pocket info. Thank you!!
Excellent explanation, thank you. I am wondering how the IRS knows when you first contributed to a Roth account, in order to base its tax/penalty assessment.
Your advice to Manfred is wrong. If he is 65 and he has had a Roth open since 2015 then the five year rule on conversions no longer applies to him. I agree that he probably should not do conversions if he is planning to use the money in the next few years but just as there is no penalty for simply taking the money out of his 401(k) there is also no penalty for doing the conversion and then taking that converted money out a year later.
James, This is one of the best Roth conversion, waiting period, and tax implications videos that I have ever seen or come across in youtube. I've been following you for more than 6 months and I enjoy every video about retirement, conversion, budgets, and tax implications during the retirement. I have been saving your videos into a playlist so that I can really listen whenever I want like a library.❤ MUST WATCH VIDEO
I really appreciate the clarity in this video. Just like the questioner, I have read and received conflicting information regarding this. I'm happy to now have a better understanding.
I always get confused on these type Roth videos. If Manfred is 65 as stated and he converted $50,000 since he is over 59.5 years old and the Roth had been opened for 5 years as he stated he wouldn't have to wait 5 more years to withdraw if he wanted. I understand the reasoning behind it not being advantageous, but he could if I understand the rules correctly.
James very well explained - I did not see a link for the PDF. Thanks for all this helpful information. I can see why we hear different and conflicting Roth information.
Good video/podcast. I think you worked hard on that flow chart, though I feel like it is still confusing. Lets take a scenario of someone (a high earner) who only has conversions in the 5 years prior to age 60 plus earnings. That is, no direct contributions. They are now age 60 and want to make a withdrawal. They will follow the left side of the flow chart : 1) Yes it exceeds contributions 2) Yes the Roth holds conversions 3) Yes they were converted in the last 5 years. The first sentence they will read is, "Sorry, the distribution of the conversion is subject to a 10% penalty." I think that instead of writing it like that, there should be another white box asking if you are over 59.5 which would lead to a different result. I do realize that the current way does say, "unless an exception applies." Its just that the result box is needs to be a final yes/no. Another confusing part is the arrows leading from the bottom left orange result boxes, back up into the white boxes. All the other orange decision boxes terminate the flow (which is good). I'm not sure what causes a continuation?
James Canole please provide an IRS publication that states that each conversion requires it’s own 5 year clock. 70% of CZcams videos agree with IRS Publication 590-B that states “a” ROTH must have been established 5 calendar years ago in order for all funds to be qualified. 2/3 of the vids on CZcams say that this could have been triggered by a ROTH that you contributed to 20 years ago and closed. It started your one and only 5 year clock then, so you are in the clear to withdraw whatever you want after 59-1/2.
It's a good idea to call the company that is holding your Roth IRA up and ask them about withdraw order to help you understand it well before you want to pull money out. You may get a clear answer.
This is a great topic and is timely to a situation which I need a resolution. I am 61 and opened a ROTH 401k through employer plan administrator 18 months ago to set-a-side money for retirement to help manage tax liability in retirement. I plan to leave the workforce in 18 months and don't plan to work anymore. The issue is the ROTH 401k account will not be continuously funded through 5-years and I am not sure if I can continue to fund this account after leaving the company. I could open a ROTH IRA now and roll-over the ROTH 401k to ROTH IRA but the 5-year clock starts overs and there may be tax liabilities and fees. I don't think that I can continue to fund payroll sponsored plan after I leave the company. What options do I have?
Thanks for a great video. Your explanation was very comprehensive and crystal clear. I do have one question. I am soon to be 70, and like Manfred, I took 6K from my traditional IRA and converted it into my Roth. So, if I have to wait for the 5-year rule to benefit my gains from the conversion, by the time I can reap the benefits, I may have died. Or forget the conversion and take the taxable RMD from my traditional IRA at 73y/o?
With regard to the 5-Year rule on growth, the IRA flowchart (2023 Publication 590-B Fig 2.1) indicates that the clock starts when the first contribution is made to "a" Roth IRA, not necessarily the Roth IRA I am actually withdrawing from. So it sounds to me that if I have multiple Roth IRA accounts, the oldest I funded would determine the start date for the rule. Am I reading this wrong? As a practical example, if I am starting a new Roth IRA account using rollover money from an existing Roth IRA older than 5 years, my expecation is that the new account would not be subject to the 5-year rule on growth.
I read Publication 590-B and the flowchart on page 32 the same way. About 2/3 of the CZcams and Internet sources agree with us and 1/3 agree with this video that states that each conversion starts its own 5-year clock.
The 5 year conversion clock only has to do with the 10% penalty. So you will pay a 10% penalty on your conversion amount plus earnings if you are under 591/2 and you withdraw any conversion amount before it’s 5 year clock runs. You will not however owe tax on the conversion amount regardless since you have basis in it.
Hi James! Love the videos and all your hard work. I am self directing my IRA on Merrill Lynch Edge and I'm told because I'm self directing, like picking my own ETF, I can not automate through DCA. Any thoughts? I currently have a company 401K. How can I DCA and "forget it"? Thank you sir!!!
Hi James. Great content thank you for that. I am still trying to wrap my head around this confusing rule. You noted that Roth IRA can only comprise of three sources...contribution, conversion, and gain. Shouldn't there be a four? What if someone who has roth 401k decides to rollover that over to roth IRA? Wouldn't that count as a fourth source? Or does that roth 401k rollover gets absorbed into roth IRA into two sources into contribution and gain accordingly?
In light of Secure Act 2.0, does a rollover from a Roth 401(k) to a Roth IRA trigger a five year clock? What if the IRA only has conversions, no contributions, but the earliest conversion would be at least 5 years old when the 401(k) conversion happens?
This is interesting topic to me. I was planning to use a large Roth distribution to purchase a home at some point after I retire. However, in the early retirement years, I want to do a series of Roth conversions, ending a year or 2 before the big distribution. I'm pretty sure I'd be clear of any penalties, based on my projections, although, I don't know the actual numbers at this point because this isn't going to happen for quite a few years. This money will be coming out of a tax deferred IRA, so there are major tax implications of leaving it in there and then taking a huge distribution when I'm ready to buy the house. I could just take smaller annual distributions and set that money aside in cash instead of converting it, but I don't want to miss out on years of growth. I know, I'm trying to have my cake and eat it too, but I hate the idea of leaving 100s of thousands of dollars sitting in cash for years.
I don't see the link to cheat sheet? Also, does it cover the scenario of how to treat a Roth 401k from employer and what to do with it after retirement and the rules?
Thanks I still confused I want to convert IRA funds to a ROTH IRA before the Trump tax rates increase in 2025 January 2024 I was going to convert 100K from traditional to ROTH IRA starting the 5 year clock then each year after add 50K for the next 5 years does my clock start in 2024 for all conversions James Love your videos
Very informative video. Watched it several times. I could not download the cheat sheet. Gives me an error: Sorry, the file you have requested does not exist. Can you please update the link.
Yeah, this really ought to be taken down or replaced. Most people don't read the comments, and will get the completely wrong idea. This 5 year rule matters a LOT to some of us... It is the reason that I watched, and I was quite surprised because I was pretty sure that after 59.5 &5 years it didn't matter, but you were quite clear that it does, so I revised my understanding of it, and it was quite a setback. The information you gave has big implications for some people. Then I happened to look at the he comments . Im glad to see that you are wrong. Pleased to see that you admit it, but it is just too incorrect to leave out there to mislead people. Hurts your credibility in a big way too, if it continues to be seen and proven wrong.
Maybe I misunderstood what you said, but I see others are questioning as well. I think if you are over 59.5 and have had the Roth open for at least 5 years, conversions are available for immediate withdrawal as soon as they are converted with no penalty. I think you said all conversions had their own 5-year rule, even after 59.5. Did I misunderstand what you said or is my description inaccurate?
You are correct - James needs to read IRS publication 590-B. If you have a Roth IRA open for over 5 years and are over 59.5 years old, all 5 year clock requirements are met. You can convert and withdraw penalty free immediately. A little frustrating that a CFP specializing in retirement planning hasn't studied 590-B which has a flow chart clearly showing this.
I'm confused again. Doesn't this contradict the PDF cheat sheet? Were the funds that you are withdrawing converted in the last 5 tax years? Answer Yes: Sorry, the distribution of the conversion is subject to a 10% penalty unless an exception applies (e.g. you are age 59.5 or older). @@RootFP
James thank you for this video. You state contributions come out first, but what if I bought a bunch of individual stock? I'm 53 and need about $20k. I bought $5 of Apple on Nov 07 that is worth $348.72 today. I also bought $30 that same Dec that is now worth $800.67. If I sell that stock today how does the IRS treat it? Does it mattter that I sell Apple stock? It isn't in a bank or index fund? That's $1114.39 in gain that is direct growth. How does the IRS treat stock $ that is actual growth? I can only sell shares. I can't sell part of a stock. Altogether I bought $23k worth of stock so I'm going to assume based on your video it's okay for me to sell up to $23k of stock whether it is individual stocks or not??? Please let me know.
Hi James, Starting in 2024, you can rollover a 529 into a Roth IRA with a lifetime limit of $35,000. How will the 529 rollover to be treated for withdrawal purposes? Thank you so much for your EXCELLENT videos! Kwok
1. First Roth IRA was opened AND funded in 2007. $1 was used to fund the account. 2. In 2022 Moved $6700 from a Traditional IRA to a Roth IRA. And payed the tax with a nonretirement money source. 3. Will be 59.5 years of age on February 6, 2024. Will I receive any tax penalty on any growth when money ($7201) removed from Roth IRA after February 6, 2024 but before December 1, 2024: Assume original $1 + $6700 principal and $500 of growth in the Roth IRA happens?
James, Can one borrow money from a 3rd party, using Roth IRA as collateral, to avoid taxes and penalty since no withdrawal actually occurs--of course assumed making all payments back so not in any default? Great content Sir! Rich
One comment regarding conversions. When you convert to a ROTH, you either have paid tax at the time of the conversion or, in the case of a backdoor ROTH, that contribution was non-deductible. In either case you have tax basis equal to the conversion amount. Therefore, if you are deemed based on the ordering rules to be dipping into your conversion amounts, that amount is not subject to tax. So not sure the 5 year rule applies except on the earnings?
Hi James. Thanks for this great Roth information. I am 64 and retiring in 2 years. I have both a 401k and a Roth 401k thorough my employer. When I retire, I want to move all my 401k to an IRA and my Roth 401k to a Roth IRA. Does the 5 year clock start over on the Roth 401k to Roth IRA move, or should I just cash out my Roth 401k at retirement and simply move that to a cash bucket...like CDs or MMF? Thanks again for all the information you offer on your channel. It's has been very helpful as I attempt to navigate the leap from saving to distribution. Brian
Very interesting and informative. I am slightly over age 59.5 and will soon do annual conversions in large sums perhaps into early 70's. I have existing long time Roth acct already. For my conversions do you recommend I create separate accounts each year due to the 5 year time lock as an easier way to keep track of this vesting? Is this common practice?
I don't think you will have a 5 year time lock since you are over 59.5. When your existing Roth account has been opened for 5 years I think you would be fine.
James is wrong, you are over 59.5, the only 5 year rule that applies to you is if your account has existed for more than 5 years which you said you met. Read IRS publication 590-B, it has a flowchart confirming what I said.
Hi I have a question - I contribute in REIT totally 30,000 usd in 5 years and get dividen for 3,000 usd -if at the time I want to withdraw the REIT stock price turn to be 27000 (-3000). In this case I can withdraw without tax penalty for 27000 or 30,000 ( stock price + dividen 3000)
I am over 59 1/2 and have a Roth which was in a TD Ameritrade account which was going to roll into Schwab. I am not too impressed with Schwab and rolled it to another in kind Roth in another platform but not nearly 5 years ago. The initial Roth was set up in 2014. Can I pull out my invested funds without penalty?
Maybe you said this but should one need to dip into Roth due to an emergency or new inspiration, a couple years after a conversion, why not have two accounts at different institutions? Therefore , would the irs see the old account as satisfying the 5 year rule. ?
It doesn’t matter how many Roth IRA accounts you have and at what institutions. As long as you opened one of them AND made a contribution to it at least 5 years ago, you will have met that rule. It does not matter if your distributions are coming from other Roth IRAs that you opened later. This is different from the separate 5-year rule for each conversion you make as each one has a separate 5-year clock. Still, the IRS looks at all your IRA accounts as only one that was opened when you opened and contributed to the first one.
The Roth IRA I inherited was more than 5 years old at time of my mother's passing but most of those years were with different brokerages. My current brokerage entered a "T" on my 1099-R saying it was because her account was only with them 3 years after having been transferred from another brokerage. Do I have to pay any taxes on distributions from the Inherited Roth IRA account holding the money or do I have to wait 5 years myself also? How can I report the distribution on my taxes as tax free with the T code? Do I need to report basis on an 8606? Why do you think the brokerage entered "T" instead of "Q"?
Can you please help explain roth 401k/ roth403b any taxes on any of these? Should we convert more before 2026 new tax? Thank you for your teaching . All are awesome.
Thanks for the cheat sheet. Could you make the light colored boxes a different color? There is not enough contrast when printing the sheet - it is difficult to read the words.
Of all the conflicting information, I may have found one answer to my question and maybe you can provide confirmation. Example: If I contribute my max of $8000, then a month later I withdraw $1000, does my contribution amount decrease by $1000 allowing me to put that $1000 back in? Or does the contribution amount stay at $8000 even though there is actually only $7000 in the Roth account? Thanks
My understanding is dividends can be taken out of Roth first even though they are not contributions. Very little info on that on the internet but I'm hoping that is correct.
James, I listened to the podcast and you mentioned that you would place a document (cheat sheet) with a flowchart outlining the various 5-year periods. I do not see it in the show notes here on the CZcams site..
I had a 401K at a company I was working at, but transitioned to a new job. I reached out to my banker for recommendations for having it rolled over into an existing IRA Roth account at my bank, but I noticed they had opened a separate Brokerage IRA account with this money from the 401K. So, I am wondering why I have two separate IRA brokerage accounts. Is there an option to consolidate it into my my main IRA Roth brokerage account without any tax penalty? I just don't get the point of having two and I have not even seen any growth in that one account, but I contribute 6k to the main one every year.
I opened a Roth IRA in January of 2023 but made a contribution for 2022 and for 2023. On the IRS site there is this example, "For example, if a calendar-year taxpayer makes a conversion contribution on February 25, 2022, and makes a regular contribution for 2021 on the same date, the 5-year period for the conversion begins January 1, 2022, while the 5-year period for the regular contribution begins on January 1, 2021." Does my five year clock for starting my Roth start on Jan 1, 2022 or Jan 1 2023?
Contribution and conversion are calculated separately, you were only making 2022 and 2023 contributions, not conversion, your clock started on Jan 1, 2022.
Hi James. Great information. I have a question on the subject. I have both a traditional 401K and a Roth 401K at work. I used to move my Roth 401K to a Roth IRA every year because I do not want it to be part of my RMD calculation later on. But since the RMD rules have change, my understanding is Roth 401K is no longer subject to RMD, is it still advantageous to keep moving Roth 401K to Roth IRA? Does every move (is it considered a conversion?) to Roth IRA start its own 5 year clock?
Question: if you complete Roth Conversions of your Traditional IRA or 401k, and god forbid pass away before the 5 year holding period for the conversion, does this trigger any issues for a Spouse or child inheriting the Roth IRA?
You REALLY need to edit this video to correct the 59.5 error. That is HUGE. Especially since you claimed that this video clarifies all the other contradicting info.
Could you clarify something from this video please? Assume a person withdraws contributions for reason XYZ, and meet the criteria so that they are not taxed or penalized for doing so. Can they return those contributions back into the Roth IRA at a later date without impacting the annual limit for that year?
Would 401Roth money contributed in my employers plan over 12 years ago be subject to an additional 5 year hold if its rolled over into a newly established Roth account at a brokerage firm?
Hi James, I recently transferred my Roth IRA which I opened 10 years ago at Fidelity and I transferred it to Vanguard. Does this starts the clock again for the five years rule. Thanks
You said I can have my ROTH principle at any age, but the growth I can't withdraw without penalty until I'm 59.5 yrs. Don't you mean that I can't touch the growth for 5 years?
Hello..very informative on Roth IRAs. My situation is that I have a 401k with about 1.2 M with about 60k in a Roth which I've had more than 5 years. Ill turn 59 and a half in April '24....Can i convert my entire 401k to a roth now and have 1.2M tax free in April?
Both federal and state income taxes are due at the time of rolling over funds from a “regular” retirement account to a “roth” account. Unless you are independently wealthy enough to be able to pay the taxes due from OUTSIDE funds separate from the 1.2 million, part of your account would need to be used to pay both tax obligations.
Where I get tripped is what constitutes 5 years. If I opened Roth in October 2021, does that mean I can access in 2025 (year 5) Or 2026? And I assume it is January 1 of whichever year?
Thank you for all the good information. I have a Roth IRA that is well beyond the 5-year rule, and I am 80 years old. This Roth is automated so when enough cash is available from dividends and interest, it creates a buy situation and automatically invests in more equities. I want to accumulate some cash for a special expense. I opened a new Roth that is not in the automated investment program. I plan to skim dividends and interest off the old Roth and deposit in the new Roth in a Money Market fund until I am ready to spend. Therefore, I create a cask position without paying tax on the returns generated by that cash. Are the deposits in the new Roth subject to a new 5-year rule?
Figure 2-1. Is the Distribution from Your Roth IRA a Qualified Distribution? Figure 2-1. Is the Distribution from Your Roth IRA a Qualified Distribution? Summary: This flowchart is used to determine if distributions from a Roth IRA. are taxable. Start Here This is the starting of the flowchart. Decision (1) Has it been at least 5 years from the beginning of the year for which you first opened and contributed to a Roth IRA? IF Yes Continue To Decision (2) IF No Continue To Process (b) Decision (2) Were you at least 59 1/2 years old at the time of the distribution? IF No Continue To Decision (3) IF Yes Continue To Process (a) Decision (3) Is the distribution being used to buy or rebuild a first home as Explained in First Home under when Can I Withdraw or Use Assets in chapter 1? IF No Continue To Decision (4) IF Yes Continue To Process (a) Decision (4) Is the distribution due to your being disabled (defined under Early Distributions in chapter 1)? IF No Continue To Decision (5) IF Yes Continue To Process (a) Decision (5) Was the distribution made to the owner's beneficiary or estate? IF Yes Continue To Process (a) IF No Continue To Process (b) Process (a) The distribution from the Roth IRA. is a qualified distribution. It isn't subject to tax or penalty. Continue To End Process (b) www.irs.gov/media/168116 The distribution from the Roth IRA. isn't a qualified distribution. The portion of the distribution allocable to earnings may be subject to tax and it may be subject to the 10% additional tax. Continue To End End
Thank you to all of you who pointed out my error in this video! The cheat sheet has it right, but I spoke incorrectly. If you have had your Roth IRA funded for 5+ years AND you are over age 59.5 then there is not a separate 5-year requirement for each conversion. Sorry for the error and thank you to all of you who brought this to my attention 🙏
Thank you for clarifying the 5-year rule if over 59.5 and had your Roth for 5+ years. After viewing your presentation, my initial reaction was 'WTF?' Did the IRS change the 5-yr rule -- No, you just got it wrong. Appreciate your correction.
Your videos are among the best out there and you have taught me a lot, but this is a big deal for those (like me) who are 59.5+ YO and choose to fund Roths with an IRA conversion. I would not be doing that if each conversion were subject to its own 5-year curing period, which is what you said in the video. I respectfully suggest that you consider updating the video rather than acknowledging the error with a comment. Thank you for all of your good work!
I'm glad that age 59.5 eliminates the conversion 5 year clocks. I was going to start converting next year and having a 5 year clock was going to complicate my life!
The video is confusing with that error. Any way to at least add a text popup or caption in the video?
Also, if you do end up redoing it to correct this error, might I suggest a white board or some visual presentation? It is a video after all, and frankly watching your face adds no value (to me), while it was hard to track all the numbers just from your speaking.
I can't find this stated in any IRS publications
@@larriveeman please check IRS publication 590 B, page 33
My biggest reason for doing conversions is to reduce Required Minimum Distributions (RMDs) which would put me in a higher tax bracket.
James please read IRS publication 590-B, you are incorrect in saying that a 5 year conversion clock applies in the scenario in this video.
If you are over 59 1/2 and have had the Roth for 5 years and paid taxes on the conversions, then those should be available free and clear.
Few years ago, I told my son to open a Roth IRA with $100 to start the clock on the 5 years rule, one less thing for him to worry about for when he is ready to contribute.
👍
Hello James, Thank you for your explanation of Roth contribution and conversion. However, I do not agree with your comment for the Conversion Rule, if you are over 59 and half year and you had the account for more than 5 years (like the gentleman who asked you the question). In the IRS exception rule, he would be allowed to pull money out of his distribution immediately, if needed! I may be wrong, but I heard in many of the CZcams videos, and also Fidelity told me. This is in IRS publication 590 B, page 33 where the exceptions are for avoiding taxes.
@fmzghazi, My understanding is same as yours when I read the IRS publication 590 B. 👍
I agree with you. Publication 590-B page 32 has a flowchart showing that any ROTH starts the 5 year clock for all contributions and conversions ( as I read it )
I believe since Manfred is over 59 1/2 , the conversion is available to withdraw tax and penalty free. The growth he earns on the conversion must meet the 5 year rule. He paid the taxes on the conversion the year he converted it to the Roth.
I am 59.5+ and have a Roth account for decades. I think your explanation is much easier to understand than that from James. 👍
I think the important point is stated at 3:00. Money that is contributed or converted, into your Roth, can be taken out at anytime, with no penalty. It’s the “Growth” that may be affected by the 5 year rules.
I don't think anybody knows. I would like to see it on the irs.gov website. I found it once but am unable to locate the same page. I'm pretty sure it stated specifically that the money converted wasn't available penalty free for 5 years. Both growth and initial investment. My only concern is that they were referring to a newly opened Roth.
It’s confusing. At 14:50 he mentioned that each conversion has its own 5 years timeframe that must be met in order to distribute tax free.
@@toantruong7901Most sources say that once any ROTH that you’ve ever had hits 5 calendar years, then this rule is satisfied for all contributions and all conversions.
@@toantruong7901He made a mistake and acknowledged it in the comments.
I've listened to several other video's where the Roth "rules" were explained. This was easily the most concise explanation and used an easy to understand example that walked through the different possible scenarios. Well done.
Thank you for the walk-through on roth conversions. It was very helpful and well thought out. Our situation is similar to Manfred's and your conclusion was very enlightening. Yes, we need to adopt the attitude that these conversions are not for short term spending... it needs to sit there and grow.
Thanks for the clear explanations for the complicated rules we have to work through to avoid the traps the IRS set for us.
“Distributions of conversion and certain rollover contributions within 5-year period. If, within the 5-year period starting with the first day of your tax year in which you convert an amount from a traditional IRA or roll over an amount from a qualified retirement plan to a Roth IRA, you take a distribution from a Roth IRA, you may have to pay the 10% additional tax on early distributions. You must generally pay the 10% additional tax on any amount attributable to the part of the amount converted or rolled over (the conversion or rollover contribution) that you had to include in income (recapture amount). A separate 5-year period applies to each conversion and rollover. See Ordering Rules for Distributions, later, to determine the recapture amount, if any.
The 5-year period used for determining whether the 10% early distribution tax applies to a distribution from a conversion or rollover contribution is separately determined for each conversion and rollover, and isn't necessarily the same as the 5-year period used for determining whether a distribution is a qualified distribution. See What Are Qualified Distributions, earlier.”
JAMES CANOLE, I think what you and about 1/3 of related CZcams videos miss is the last sentence in the above paragraph.
The 5 year clock on conversion withdrawals does not reset with each conversion for those over 59-1/2 because we met the Qualified Distributions Rules
earlier (in the paragraphs above this one)
www.irs.gov/publications/p590b#en_US_2023_publink100089543
Thank you. This is excellent point and reference to IRS info on the subject. Thank you so much
James...thanks a million for the Roth IRA decision metric flow chart-it definitely explained the complicated Roth IRA or Roth Conversion IRS rules in layperson terms. Most important-thanks-for the explanation at the end of the video where you advised that anyone contemplating during Roth Conversion (where the goal should be to leave the money in the Roth account) to grow tax-free [for decades]) to take advantage of the Rule of 72-compounding interest-where one is allowed the conversion(s) to double, triple, and so forth in value. And most important allowing one to avoid RMDs.
I'm looking for the cheat sheet download and I cannot find the directions page.
James, I am 64 and established a ROTH back between 2006 to 2011. During that time period, I made deposits and yearly Traditional IRA conversions into the ROTH. Those are long since settled. I set up a ROTH conversion this week and I had taxes withheld. This conversion is a “tanked” stock position that had lost considerable value. I have a second similar conversion that will probably be made at the first of the year again with taxes paid at conversion. Both stocks can recover in the ROTH and hopefully increase the value. I appreciate this video as it answers quite a few questions.
I’m happy it was helpful! Thanks for watching.
This was very helpful. I am Not 59.5 yet, but have a Roth IRA since 2012. The message I am getting is that everybody could benefit by investing $ into Roth IRA, esp. since you could take out ur contribution if absolutely needed it. Obviously want to have emergency fund set up first, but really good video for back pocket info. Thank you!!
Thank you James. In-depth, but easy to follow videos are so helpful. I really appreciate your communication style and breadth of knowledge.
Thank you for watching 🙏🏼
Excellent explanation, thank you. I am wondering how the IRS knows when you first contributed to a Roth account, in order to base its tax/penalty assessment.
Your advice to Manfred is wrong. If he is 65 and he has had a Roth open since 2015 then the five year rule on conversions no longer applies to him. I agree that he probably should not do conversions if he is planning to use the money in the next few years but just as there is no penalty for simply taking the money out of his 401(k) there is also no penalty for doing the conversion and then taking that converted money out a year later.
👍
James,
This is one of the best Roth conversion, waiting period, and tax implications videos that I have ever seen or come across in youtube. I've been following you for more than 6 months and I enjoy every video about retirement, conversion, budgets, and tax implications during the retirement.
I have been saving your videos into a playlist so that I can really listen whenever I want like a library.❤
MUST WATCH VIDEO
I really appreciate the clarity in this video. Just like the questioner, I have read and received conflicting information regarding this. I'm happy to now have a better understanding.
I always get confused on these type Roth videos. If Manfred is 65 as stated and he converted $50,000 since he is over 59.5 years old and the Roth had been opened for 5 years as he stated he wouldn't have to wait 5 more years to withdraw if he wanted. I understand the reasoning behind it not being advantageous, but he could if I understand the rules correctly.
James very well explained - I did not see a link for the PDF. Thanks for all this helpful information. I can see why we hear different and conflicting Roth information.
Good video/podcast. I think you worked hard on that flow chart, though I feel like it is still confusing. Lets take a scenario of someone (a high earner) who only has conversions in the 5 years prior to age 60 plus earnings. That is, no direct contributions. They are now age 60 and want to make a withdrawal. They will follow the left side of the flow chart : 1) Yes it exceeds contributions 2) Yes the Roth holds conversions 3) Yes they were converted in the last 5 years. The first sentence they will read is, "Sorry, the distribution of the conversion is subject to a 10% penalty." I think that instead of writing it like that, there should be another white box asking if you are over 59.5 which would lead to a different result. I do realize that the current way does say, "unless an exception applies." Its just that the result box is needs to be a final yes/no. Another confusing part is the arrows leading from the bottom left orange result boxes, back up into the white boxes. All the other orange decision boxes terminate the flow (which is good). I'm not sure what causes a continuation?
James Canole please provide an IRS publication that states that each conversion requires it’s own 5 year clock. 70% of CZcams videos agree with IRS Publication 590-B that states “a” ROTH must have been established 5 calendar years ago in order for all funds to be qualified.
2/3 of the vids on CZcams say that this could have been triggered by a ROTH that you contributed to 20 years ago and closed. It started your one and only 5 year clock then, so you are in the clear to withdraw whatever you want after 59-1/2.
It's a good idea to call the company that is holding your Roth IRA up and ask them about withdraw order to help you understand it well before you want to pull money out.
You may get a clear answer.
This is a great topic and is timely to a situation which I need a resolution. I am 61 and opened a ROTH 401k through employer plan administrator 18 months ago to set-a-side money for retirement to help manage tax liability in retirement. I plan to leave the workforce in 18 months and don't plan to work anymore. The issue is the ROTH 401k account will not be continuously funded through 5-years and I am not sure if I can continue to fund this account after leaving the company. I could open a ROTH IRA now and roll-over the ROTH 401k to ROTH IRA but the 5-year clock starts overs and there may be tax liabilities and fees. I don't think that I can continue to fund payroll sponsored plan after I leave the company. What options do I have?
Thanks for a great video. Your explanation was very comprehensive and crystal clear. I do have one question. I am soon to be 70, and like Manfred, I took 6K from my traditional IRA and converted it into my Roth. So, if I have to wait for the 5-year rule to benefit my gains from the conversion, by the time I can reap the benefits, I may have died. Or forget the conversion and take the taxable RMD from my traditional IRA at 73y/o?
With regard to the 5-Year rule on growth, the IRA flowchart (2023 Publication 590-B Fig 2.1) indicates that the clock starts when the first contribution is made to "a" Roth IRA, not necessarily the Roth IRA I am actually withdrawing from. So it sounds to me that if I have multiple Roth IRA accounts, the oldest I funded would determine the start date for the rule. Am I reading this wrong? As a practical example, if I am starting a new Roth IRA account using rollover money from an existing Roth IRA older than 5 years, my expecation is that the new account would not be subject to the 5-year rule on growth.
I read Publication 590-B and the flowchart on page 32 the same way.
About 2/3 of the CZcams and Internet sources agree with us and 1/3 agree with this video that states that each conversion starts its own 5-year clock.
The 5 year conversion clock only has to do with the 10% penalty. So you will pay a 10% penalty on your conversion amount plus earnings if you are under 591/2 and you withdraw any conversion amount before it’s 5 year clock runs. You will not however owe tax on the conversion amount regardless since you have basis in it.
Hi James! Love the videos and all your hard work. I am self directing my IRA on Merrill Lynch Edge and I'm told because I'm self directing, like picking my own ETF, I can not automate through DCA. Any thoughts? I currently have a company 401K. How can I DCA and "forget it"? Thank you sir!!!
Hi James. Great content thank you for that. I am still trying to wrap my head around this confusing rule. You noted that Roth IRA can only comprise of three sources...contribution, conversion, and gain. Shouldn't there be a four? What if someone who has roth 401k decides to rollover that over to roth IRA? Wouldn't that count as a fourth source? Or does that roth 401k rollover gets absorbed into roth IRA into two sources into contribution and gain accordingly?
Your description is a conversion.
In light of Secure Act 2.0, does a rollover from a Roth 401(k) to a Roth IRA trigger a five year clock? What if the IRA only has conversions, no contributions, but the earliest conversion would be at least 5 years old when the 401(k) conversion happens?
You may want to add to your cheat sheet 401K conversions along with traditional IRSs.
This is interesting topic to me. I was planning to use a large Roth distribution to purchase a home at some point after I retire. However, in the early retirement years, I want to do a series of Roth conversions, ending a year or 2 before the big distribution. I'm pretty sure I'd be clear of any penalties, based on my projections, although, I don't know the actual numbers at this point because this isn't going to happen for quite a few years. This money will be coming out of a tax deferred IRA, so there are major tax implications of leaving it in there and then taking a huge distribution when I'm ready to buy the house. I could just take smaller annual distributions and set that money aside in cash instead of converting it, but I don't want to miss out on years of growth. I know, I'm trying to have my cake and eat it too, but I hate the idea of leaving 100s of thousands of dollars sitting in cash for years.
I don't see the link to cheat sheet? Also, does it cover the scenario of how to treat a Roth 401k from employer and what to do with it after retirement and the rules?
Thanks
I still confused I want to convert IRA funds to a ROTH IRA before the Trump tax rates increase in 2025
January 2024 I was going to convert 100K from traditional to ROTH IRA starting the 5 year clock
then each year after add 50K for the next 5 years does my clock start in 2024 for all conversions
James Love your videos
Very informative video. Watched it several times.
I could not download the cheat sheet. Gives me an error: Sorry, the file you have requested does not exist. Can you please update the link.
So glad I found your channel. Thank you!
If retiring early Roth funds can be used to keep your agi low to qualify for low cost heath insurance from the ACÁ.
Yeah, this really ought to be taken down or replaced. Most people don't read the comments, and will get the completely wrong idea.
This 5 year rule matters a LOT to some of us... It is the reason that I watched, and I was quite surprised because I was pretty sure that after 59.5 &5 years it didn't matter, but you were quite clear that it does, so I revised my understanding of it, and it was quite a setback. The information you gave has big implications for some people.
Then I happened to look at the he comments .
Im glad to see that you are wrong. Pleased to see that you admit it, but it is just too incorrect to leave out there to mislead people.
Hurts your credibility in a big way too, if it continues to be seen and proven wrong.
That is a great question. Thank you for taking it on sir.
Thank you for watching.
I’m boxed in due to an ACA policy. Convert while you have employer health care!
Maybe I misunderstood what you said, but I see others are questioning as well. I think if you are over 59.5 and have had the Roth open for at least 5 years, conversions are available for immediate withdrawal as soon as they are converted with no penalty. I think you said all conversions had their own 5-year rule, even after 59.5. Did I misunderstand what you said or is my description inaccurate?
You are correct - James needs to read IRS publication 590-B. If you have a Roth IRA open for over 5 years and are over 59.5 years old, all 5 year clock requirements are met. You can convert and withdraw penalty free immediately. A little frustrating that a CFP specializing in retirement planning hasn't studied 590-B which has a flow chart clearly showing this.
@drjdub55, I was very confused by "all conversions had their own 5-year rule, even after 59.5" statement also.
Yes each conversion would have its own 5-year clock. Even if you’re over 59.5.
I'm confused again. Doesn't this contradict the PDF cheat sheet?
Were the funds that you are withdrawing converted in the last 5 tax years?
Answer Yes:
Sorry, the distribution of the conversion is subject to a 10% penalty unless an exception applies (e.g. you are age 59.5 or older). @@RootFP
@@RootFPSo the clock would only apply to the growth then? Otherwise a clock after 591/2 and 5 years old would never come into play.
James thank you for this video. You state contributions come out first, but what if I bought a bunch of individual stock? I'm 53 and need about $20k. I bought $5 of Apple on Nov 07 that is worth $348.72 today. I also bought $30 that same Dec that is now worth $800.67. If I sell that stock today how does the IRS treat it? Does it mattter that I sell Apple stock? It isn't in a bank or index fund? That's $1114.39 in gain that is direct growth.
How does the IRS treat stock $ that is actual growth? I can only sell shares. I can't sell part of a stock.
Altogether I bought $23k worth of stock so I'm going to assume based on your video it's okay for me to sell up to $23k of stock whether it is individual stocks or not??? Please let me know.
Great advanced information on the Roth instruments James. Don't see the link to the cheat-sheet in the description however...
Hi James,
Starting in 2024, you can rollover a 529 into a Roth IRA with a lifetime limit of $35,000.
How will the 529 rollover to be treated for withdrawal purposes?
Thank you so much for your EXCELLENT videos!
Kwok
1. First Roth IRA was opened AND funded in 2007. $1 was used to fund the account.
2. In 2022 Moved $6700 from a Traditional IRA to a Roth IRA. And payed the tax with a nonretirement money source.
3. Will be 59.5 years of age on February 6, 2024.
Will I receive any tax penalty on any growth when money ($7201) removed from Roth IRA after February 6, 2024 but before December 1, 2024: Assume original $1 + $6700 principal and $500 of growth in the Roth IRA happens?
James, Can one borrow money from a 3rd party, using Roth IRA as collateral, to avoid taxes and penalty since no withdrawal actually occurs--of course assumed making all payments back so not in any default? Great content Sir! Rich
No IRA can be used as collateral for any loan.
One comment regarding conversions. When you convert to a ROTH, you either have paid tax at the time of the conversion or, in the case of a backdoor ROTH, that contribution was non-deductible. In either case you have tax basis equal to the conversion amount. Therefore, if you are deemed based on the ordering rules to be dipping into your conversion amounts, that amount is not subject to tax. So not sure the 5 year rule applies except on the earnings?
Hi James. Thanks for this great Roth information. I am 64 and retiring in 2 years. I have both a 401k and a Roth 401k thorough my employer. When I retire, I want to move all my 401k to an IRA and my Roth 401k to a Roth IRA. Does the 5 year clock start over on the Roth 401k to Roth IRA move, or should I just cash out my Roth 401k at retirement and simply move that to a cash bucket...like CDs or MMF? Thanks again for all the information you offer on your channel. It's has been very helpful as I attempt to navigate the leap from saving to distribution. Brian
Is it me or did you leave the cheat sheet out of the show notes? i need this stuff and don't see a pdf. Thanks for explaining things so well.
It is there now. Just took a while to show up.
Very interesting and informative. I am slightly over age 59.5 and will soon do annual conversions in large sums perhaps into early 70's. I have existing long time Roth acct already. For my conversions do you recommend I create separate accounts each year due to the 5 year time lock as an easier way to keep track of this vesting? Is this common practice?
I don't think you will have a 5 year time lock since you are over 59.5. When your existing Roth account has been opened for 5 years I think you would be fine.
James is wrong, you are over 59.5, the only 5 year rule that applies to you is if your account has existed for more than 5 years which you said you met. Read IRS publication 590-B, it has a flowchart confirming what I said.
Hi I have a question - I contribute in REIT totally 30,000 usd in 5 years and get dividen for 3,000 usd -if at the time I want to withdraw the REIT stock price turn to be 27000 (-3000). In this case I can withdraw without tax penalty for 27000 or 30,000 ( stock price + dividen 3000)
I am over 59 1/2 and have a Roth which was in a TD Ameritrade account which was going to roll into Schwab. I am not too impressed with Schwab and rolled it to another in kind Roth in another platform but not nearly 5 years ago. The initial Roth was set up in 2014. Can I pull out my invested funds without penalty?
Maybe you said this but should one need to dip into Roth due to an emergency or new inspiration, a couple years after a conversion, why not have two accounts at different institutions? Therefore , would the irs see the old account as satisfying the 5 year rule. ?
It doesn’t matter how many Roth IRA accounts you have and at what institutions. As long as you opened one of them AND made a contribution to it at least 5 years ago, you will have met that rule. It does not matter if your distributions are coming from other Roth IRAs that you opened later. This is different from the separate 5-year rule for each conversion you make as each one has a separate 5-year clock. Still, the IRS looks at all your IRA accounts as only one that was opened when you opened and contributed to the first one.
The Roth IRA I inherited was more than 5 years old at time of my mother's passing but most of those years were with different brokerages. My current brokerage entered a "T" on my 1099-R saying it was because her account was only with them 3 years after having been transferred from another brokerage.
Do I have to pay any taxes on distributions from the Inherited Roth IRA account holding the money or do I have to wait 5 years myself also?
How can I report the distribution on my taxes as tax free with the T code? Do I need to report basis on an 8606?
Why do you think the brokerage entered "T" instead of "Q"?
Can you please help explain roth 401k/ roth403b any taxes on any of these? Should we convert more before 2026 new tax? Thank you for your teaching . All are awesome.
The cheat sheet link is no longer working. Can you please provide an update James?
Thanks for the cheat sheet. Could you make the light colored boxes a different color? There is not enough contrast when printing the sheet - it is difficult to read the words.
Of all the conflicting information, I may have found one answer to my question and maybe you can provide confirmation. Example: If I contribute my max of $8000, then a month later I withdraw $1000, does my contribution amount decrease by $1000 allowing me to put that $1000 back in? Or does the contribution amount stay at $8000 even though there is actually only $7000 in the Roth account? Thanks
can you do video on which to take ACA subsidies vs Roth Conversions before 65 y.o. can you take both subsidies and do Roth conversion the same year
My understanding is dividends can be taken out of Roth first even though they are not contributions. Very little info on that on the internet but I'm hoping that is correct.
IRS considers for tax purposes that withdrawals first come from your Roth IRA contributions.
This video is soooo helpful! Thank you!
When I click link for the Roth cheat sheet I get the message "The file you requested does not exist". How can I get the cheat sheet? Thanks.
If my first Roth IRA contribution was over 5 years ago, can I take out growth, if I am under 59.5?
James, I listened to the podcast and you mentioned that you would place a document (cheat sheet) with a flowchart outlining the various 5-year periods. I do not see it in the show notes here on the CZcams site..
It’s there now. Sorry for the delay!
Good video, but for some reason I think the second 5 year rule is you must have a Roth for at least 55 years, not the Roth.
I had a 401K at a company I was working at, but transitioned to a new job. I reached out to my banker for recommendations for having it rolled over into an existing IRA Roth account at my bank, but I noticed they had opened a separate Brokerage IRA account with this money from the 401K. So, I am wondering why I have two separate IRA brokerage accounts. Is there an option to consolidate it into my my main IRA Roth brokerage account without any tax penalty? I just don't get the point of having two and I have not even seen any growth in that one account, but I contribute 6k to the main one every year.
Hi James, great video. I assume rollovers from one qualified Roth plan to another Roth doesn't start a new 5 year clock either correct?
Question....Since growth is incremental how does one know what amount has been there for five years? Does that matter if one is over 59 1/2?
Are you asking about withdrawals from Roth IRA?
I opened a Roth IRA in January of 2023 but made a contribution for 2022 and for 2023. On the IRS site there is this example,
"For example, if a calendar-year taxpayer makes a conversion contribution on February 25, 2022, and makes a regular contribution for 2021 on the same date, the 5-year period for the conversion begins January 1, 2022, while the 5-year period for the regular contribution begins on January 1, 2021."
Does my five year clock for starting my Roth start on Jan 1, 2022 or Jan 1 2023?
Contribution and conversion are calculated separately, you were only making 2022 and 2023 contributions, not conversion, your clock started on Jan 1, 2022.
Hi James. Great information. I have a question on the subject. I have both a traditional 401K and a Roth 401K at work. I used to move my Roth 401K to a Roth IRA every year because I do not want it to be part of my RMD calculation later on. But since the RMD rules have change, my understanding is Roth 401K is no longer subject to RMD, is it still advantageous to keep moving Roth 401K to Roth IRA? Does every move (is it considered a conversion?) to Roth IRA start its own 5 year clock?
Question: if you complete Roth Conversions of your Traditional IRA or 401k, and god forbid pass away before the 5 year holding period for the conversion, does this trigger any issues for a Spouse or child inheriting the Roth IRA?
When you do backdoor Roth IRA (tax loophole for high earners), do you need to file any forms to IRS when doing your taxes for that year?
You REALLY need to edit this video to correct the 59.5 error. That is HUGE. Especially since you claimed that this video clarifies all the other contradicting info.
Love the blue background
Isn't there one more way money in a Roth IRA can also come from a Rollover? For example, from a Roth 401k to a Roth IRA?
Thank you. This is very useful information.
Could you clarify something from this video please? Assume a person withdraws contributions for reason XYZ, and meet the criteria so that they are not taxed or penalized for doing so. Can they return those contributions back into the Roth IRA at a later date without impacting the annual limit for that year?
You have 60 days to move some money from your Roth IRA custodian to another Roth IRA custodian. You may do this once every 12 months.
Would 401Roth money contributed in my employers plan over 12 years ago be subject to an additional 5 year hold if its rolled over into a newly established Roth account at a brokerage firm?
can you do advantage of ACA subsidies vs Roth Conversion before 62.y.o. can you do both the same year if at low ( less than 50 K )or no income)
Some question, for the five year calendar is it specifically to the date or just a five year window and maybe you can squeeze it down to a gear
Hi James, I recently transferred my Roth IRA which I opened 10 years ago at Fidelity and I transferred it to Vanguard. Does this starts the clock again for the five years rule. Thanks
Thanks for the details
Did you forget the link for the cheatsheet?
You said I can have my ROTH principle at any age, but the growth I can't withdraw without penalty until I'm 59.5 yrs. Don't you mean that I can't touch the growth for 5 years?
Good to know, thanks.
James, forgive me if I'm just not seeing it, but where is the link to the Cheat Sheet you mention in your video?
Hello..very informative on Roth IRAs. My situation is that I have a 401k with about 1.2 M with about 60k in a Roth which I've had more than 5 years. Ill turn 59 and a half in April '24....Can i convert my entire 401k to a roth now and have 1.2M tax free in April?
Both federal and state income taxes are due at the time of rolling over funds from a “regular” retirement account to a “roth” account. Unless you are independently wealthy enough to be able to pay the taxes due from OUTSIDE funds separate from the 1.2 million, part of your account would need to be used to pay both tax obligations.
Where is the link you mentioned? I looked under, "more."
I am looking for the cheat sheet pdf, am I missing it or is it not in the description?
Where I get tripped is what constitutes 5 years. If I opened Roth in October 2021, does that mean I can access in 2025 (year 5) Or 2026? And I assume it is January 1 of whichever year?
The IRS assumes Jan 1 as the start date. So the five year window is met One day past the five year mark, January 2, 2026.
I can’t seem to locate the cheatsheet.
I do not see the cheatsheet
Where is the link to the "cheat sheet" referred to in the video. It's not in the description.
It’s there now
Thank you for all the good information. I have a Roth IRA that is well beyond the 5-year rule, and I am 80 years old. This Roth is automated so when enough cash is available from dividends and interest, it creates a buy situation and automatically invests in more equities. I want to accumulate some cash for a special expense. I opened a new Roth that is not in the automated investment program. I plan to skim dividends and interest off the old Roth and deposit in the new Roth in a Money Market fund until I am ready to spend. Therefore, I create a cask position without paying tax on the returns generated by that cash. Are the deposits in the new Roth subject to a new 5-year rule?
I do not see the link to the cheat sheet.
The cheat sheet is not working
Where is the cheatsheet?
Figure 2-1. Is the Distribution from Your Roth IRA a Qualified Distribution?
Figure 2-1. Is the Distribution from Your Roth IRA a Qualified Distribution?
Summary: This flowchart is used to determine if distributions from a Roth IRA. are taxable.
Start Here
This is the starting of the flowchart.
Decision (1)
Has it been at least 5 years from the beginning of the year for which you first opened and contributed to a Roth IRA?
IF Yes Continue To Decision (2)
IF No Continue To Process (b)
Decision (2)
Were you at least 59 1/2 years old at the time of the distribution?
IF No Continue To Decision (3)
IF Yes Continue To Process (a)
Decision (3)
Is the distribution being used to buy or rebuild a first home as Explained in First Home under when Can I Withdraw or Use Assets in chapter 1?
IF No Continue To Decision (4)
IF Yes Continue To Process (a)
Decision (4)
Is the distribution due to your being disabled (defined under Early Distributions in chapter 1)?
IF No Continue To Decision (5)
IF Yes Continue To Process (a)
Decision (5)
Was the distribution made to the owner's beneficiary or estate?
IF Yes Continue To Process (a)
IF No Continue To Process (b)
Process (a)
The distribution from the Roth IRA. is a qualified distribution. It isn't subject to tax or penalty.
Continue To End
Process (b)
www.irs.gov/media/168116
The distribution from the Roth IRA. isn't a qualified distribution. The portion of the distribution allocable to earnings may be subject to tax and it may be subject to the 10% additional tax.
Continue To End
End