72-T Commenced then Full IRA Distribution

Hi,

We have a client (in his early 40’s) who has commenced a 72-T, but now wants to do a full IRA distribution. Is there any restriction from doing a full IRA distribution once the 72-T has commenced?

It is my understanding, that the early distribution penalty will be retroactive back to dollar one and result in a 100% penalty in the year of the full IRA distribution.

Thanks,
TB



This is another example of the risks of starting a 72t plan prior to age 50. The plan typically becomes sub optimal for one reason or another and many such plans are busted. Retroactive 10% penalty plus interest is the cost to bust the plan. A full distribution is rare however since the normal distribution is roughly 5% of the account value. A rollover can be done to preserve at least part of the IRA, and that will reduce the tax and penalty for a very large distribution. 

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