Multiple IRA early withdrawls for 1st home?

I know that I can use $10,000 for the purchase of a first time home from my rollover IRA without the 10% penalty (provided I include as income and pay income tax on it). As a married couple filling a joint return can both my wife and I withdraw $10,000 from separate rollover IRA accounts for a total of $20,000. Any guidance and reference to IRS publications/clarifications would be greatly appreciated.



IRAs are INDIVIDUAL retirement accounts which means that each individual has the same ability to take out $10,000 without penalty for a first-time home purchase. Of course, you need to meet the definitions of a first-time homebuyer or have a descendent or ancestor that you’re helping out that meets the definition. The rules for the early withdrawals are in Pub 590 but I don’t think you will find a specific reference to the fact that each spouse can do it, because joint return status or married vs. single has no relevance in applying the provision.



See the TIP on p 53 of Pub 590.



Thank you all. IRS 590 tip seems to be pretty clear that we can do it.



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