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June 1, 2019
Question

IRA distribution tax penalty

  • June 1, 2019
  • 1 reply
  • 0 views
I took an early distribution of 13k.  I had them take out 20% off the top of the distribution for tax purposes, 10% for the normal penalty and another 10% on top.  On my 1099R, it shows 20% in Box 4.  Whenever I entered that amount into TurboTax online, it seemed like I took another penalty because it lowered my refund by about 2k.  Is that correct?  or, Should Box 4 of the 1099R on be 10% of the total distribution.
I tried to have the IRA company withhold the maximum amount so I would not incur any penalties.

1 reply

Employee
June 1, 2019

You're likely seeing your refund drop because you owe more than 10% income tax on the distribution.  If you're in a higher tax bracket than 10% (which is very low), the 20% withholding will not cover your additional tax liability (income tax plus 10% penalty) from an early distribution.