The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) announced it has expanded retirement fund withdrawal eligibility to "take into account additional factors such as reductions in pay, rescissions of a job offer, and delayed start dates." The updated criteria, part of the CARES Act, also allows spouses or household members to take these distributions if someone in the home was affected.1 For many Americans feeling an economic hardship due to COVID-19, this makes it is easier to access retirement account money when you need it most.
How this change can help if you’re scrambling to pay bills:
- No fees assessed: Investors of any age can withdraw as much as $100,000 from 401(k) plans and individual retirement accounts this year without paying the typical early withdrawal penalty of 10%.
- Time to return the funds: The money you take out is still taxable, but you’re given three years to pay them.
- Lifestyle changes mean you can reinvest: The new law also indicates that should your situation change you have three years to redeposit the funds back into your retirement account as a rollover contribution.
Be aware that not everyone is afforded this benefit. Under Notice 2020-50, the IRS stipulates you must meet specific criteria to be eligible. Qualifications for individuals, spouses and dependents include:
A diagnosis with COVID-19 via an approved test from the CDC
Or
Experiencing adverse financial consequences from:
- Being quarantined
- Being unable to work due to lack of childcare
- Being furloughed or laid off or having a reduction in work hours
- Closing a business or reducing business hours
- Having a job offer rescinded or a start date delayed
Rules are changing and lifestyles are changing for everyone because of COVID-19. Understanding the changes and mandates that are being made can be overwhelming so talking with your financial planner will ensure that you and your retirement plans are secure. If you have questions, we are ready to talk so give us a call today.
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[1] https://www.forbes.com/sites/ashleaebeling/2020/06/19/irs-expands-eligibility-for-ira--401k-loans--distributions-in-covid-19-guidance/#2e0c8406d4e4