On top of providing tax-free income, Roth IRAs have another selling point – there’s a window of time that you can “undo” the conversion … whatever the reason may be. Keep watching to learn more about Roth IRA recharacterization.
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Roth IRA recharacterization rules are a set of guidelines that allow individuals who have funded a Roth IRA to convert their contributions back to a traditional IRA. This process is known as recharacterization and can be used to undo a Roth IRA contribution or conversion, which may be useful if there are changes to an individual’s financial situation.
The recharacterization process must be completed by the tax deadline in the year following the contribution or conversion. For example, contributions made for the 2020 tax year can be recharacterized until April 15, 2021. After this date, recharacterization is no longer allowed for that year.
There are also limits to the amount that can be recharacterized. The amount that can be recharacterized is the total contribution or conversion amount, including any gains or losses, and must be moved to a traditional IRA account.
It is important to note that recharacterization only applies to contributions or conversions made to a Roth IRA. It cannot be used to recharacterize earnings in the account or to recharacterize contributions made to other types of accounts like a 401k or a traditional IRA.
As of January 1, 2018, the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act eliminated the ability to recharacterize funds that were converted from a traditional IRA to a Roth IRA. However, individuals are still able to undo Roth IRA contributions.
Recharacterization can be a useful tool for individuals who have contributed to a Roth IRA but later determine that a traditional IRA may be a better option for their financial situation. It allows individuals to avoid any tax consequences or penalties associated with withdrawing funds from a Roth IRA.
Overall, the Roth IRA recharacterization rules provide flexibility for individuals who want to adjust their retirement savings strategy based on their financial circumstances. It is important to consult with a financial advisor or tax professional to fully understand the recharacterization process and to determine if it is the best option for your specific situation.
If I recharacterize from Roth IRA to traditional IRA, wouldn't I be paying taxes again* for the growth that happens in the Traditional IRA?
I have a question. How do I attach a required statement to my E filing 1040 tax return explaining the recharacterization. I read where IRS wants a statement explaining the discrepancy between conversion $ amount and the recharacterization $ amount. thx
Waiting period is at least 30 days, OR the following calendar year in the same account, which ever is longer. EX. A partial conversion is made 6/1/2014, then you must wait till at least 1/1/2015 to recharacterize (undue) that amount. Or another example, if you did a partial conversion on 12/10/2014, then you must wait till 1/11/2015 to recharacterize, (undue) that amount. Correct?