I am using the planning module to estimate the amount of my IRA withdrawals. The amount the program shows me is +/- $5K more than I usually take. It says the amount is determined by the "term certain" method. How can I change that to make the determination show the least required withdrawal based on mine and my spouse's ages?
Thanks for your help.
Be very careful with the distributions. I found out the hardway when I decided to take liquidate the IRA in 5 equal parts. The first distribution had to be reported as ordinary income on the tax returns, it tripped the "means test" on the Medicare Part B premium, it prevented me from qualifying for a "Circuit Breaker" tax credit in MA, .... Consult with a CPA (NOT a lawyer!).
I'm not familiar with the planning module, but "term certain" sounds like one of the 3 permissible methods for avoiding the pre-59 1/2 premature distribution penalty by calculating a "substantially equal periodic payment" stream over life expectancy. If so, it would exceed the required minimum distribution required after 70 1/2, although that calculation method is another means to avoid the 10% penalty.
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