We recently saw a humorous quote stating that they “missed precedented times.” 😊 That is so true as we come near the end of 2020. There will be plenty of reflection that occurs for years to come. Hopefully, many good things can be remembered. 

November is an excellent time to think about pre-planning. It’s a great time to look at strategies for reducing taxes before December 31st. Every year at this time we start talking with clients about their required minimum distributions (RMD). By definition, this is the amount of money that must be withdrawn from a traditional, SEP, or Simple IRA account and qualified plan participants of retirement age. The original starting age was 70 ½ and has now been changed to age 72. Earlier this year, Congress waived the required minimum distributions. 

Even though participants do not have to take it, here are a few reasons some may consider it: 
• Low income and low tax bracket – If your income for 2020 is in a low tax bracket, it may be wise to consult with your accountant and see how much money can be withdrawn from your tax deferred account with little or no taxes at all. If the funds are not needed for spending, then they can be transferred into a brokerage account and managed. If every year for your tax return you pay no taxes at all, then this might be something to investigate. 
• Converting funds to a Roth – There are times where taking funds from the IRA and converting them to a Roth is extremely beneficial and this year may be the best time. When funds get converted, they show as income but stay in a retirement account and grow tax free. In traditional years, a Roth conversion is not allowed for RMD. In addition, those funds can then be withdrawn tax free if the Roth has been opened for 5 years or more. 
• A known increase in taxes next year – If there is a known increase in income such as a sale of a business, an expected pay increase, or the potential of rental income from a property for 2021 and it will influence the tax bracket, then taking the RMD this year may be best.
• A higher RMD next year – If it is expected that the RMD is going to be much higher next year because none was taken this year, this is another reason.  As a reminder, the RMD for each year is based off the December 31st value from the previous year and then it is calculated.  

These are only a few reasons why taking the RMD could be considered.  As always, we encourage you to consult with your accountant and your advisor to collaborate and come up with your best tax option for 2020. 

At PFG Private Wealth Management, we thank you for your trust in us and encourage you to be safe. 

PFG Private Wealth Management, LLC is a registered investment adviser.  Information presented is for educational purposes only and does not intend to make an offer or solicitation for the sale or purchase of any specific securities, investments, or investment strategies. This material and information are not intended to provide tax or legal advice.  Investments involve risk and, unless otherwise stated, are not guaranteed.  Be sure to first consult with a qualified financial adviser and/or tax professional before implementing any strategy discussed herein. Past performance is not indicative of future performance.  Insurance products and services are offered and sold through individually licensed and appointed insurance agents.