Inherited IRAs: What Families Need to Know When a Spouse or Adult Child Inherits a Retirement Account
Understanding the rules for inherited IRAs is essential to avoiding costly mistakes. Learn the key differences between spouse and non-spouse beneficiaries, required distributions, and important planning considerations.
An Individual Retirement Account (IRA) is often one of the largest assets a family passes to the next generation. While inheriting an IRA may seem straightforward, the tax rules can be surprisingly complex—and making the wrong decision can have significant financial consequences.
One of the biggest distinctions in inherited IRA planning is whether the beneficiary is a surviving spouse or a non-spouse beneficiary, such as an adult child. The options available to each are very different, and understanding those differences can help families make informed decisions during an already emotional time.