Please ensure Javascript is enabled for purposes of website accessibility
Search
Accessibility Menu

Inherited IRA Rules: Everything You Need to Know

If you inherit an IRA, you need to know the tax rules.

By Kailey Hagen – Updated Mar 17, 2025 at 2:04PM

Key Points

  • Inherited IRAs must be withdrawn within 10 years, taxed at the heir's ordinary rate.
  • Most non-spouse heirs can no longer spread inherited IRA distributions over their lifetime.
  • Spreading out withdrawals may lower tax impacts, especially in lower-income years.
Key findings are powered by ChatGPT and based solely off the content from this article. Findings are reviewed by our editorial team. The author and editors take ultimate responsibility for the content.

Premium Investing Services

Invest better with The Motley Fool. Get stock recommendations, portfolio guidance, and more from The Motley Fool's premium services.