Ensure that Your IRA Beneficiaries Get as Much Money as the Government Will

Naming beneficiaries on retirement accounts is a crucial part of estate planning. However, the details are important. Without a proper plan, inherited IRAs may become heavily taxed or mismanaged. Careful planning can protect your savings and maximize what your heirs receive.

Understand How IRA Inheritance Works

When someone inherits an IRA, the rules governing distributions and taxes depend on the identity of the beneficiary. Spouses have more flexibility, including the option to roll the IRA into their own individual retirement account (IRA). Non-spouse beneficiaries, however, must usually withdraw the entire balance within 10 years under the SECURE Act.

This creates a tax burden, especially if the beneficiary is in a high-income bracket. Without planning, heirs may lose a significant portion of the inheritance to taxes.

Use Trusts When Appropriate

If you’re concerned about how an IRA will be handled, a trust may offer better control. For example, a properly drafted “see-through” trust can act as the IRA beneficiary and distribute the funds gradually to the heir. This is helpful if:

• You want to protect the inheritance from creditors or divorce
• The heir is a minor, has special needs, or lacks financial experience
• You prefer structured control over how and when funds are used

However, trusts can complicate required minimum distribution (RMD) rules and require precise drafting. An experienced estate planning attorney can help you determine if this route is appropriate.

Consider Tax-Efficient Withdrawals

In some cases, it may be better to start drawing down your IRA during your own lifetime. Doing so in lower-income years — for example, during retirement before claiming Social Security — can reduce the size of future RMDs and lower the overall tax liability on the account.

Qualified Charitable Distributions (QCDs) are another option for individuals aged 70½ and older. By donating directly from your IRA to a charity, you can meet your RMD requirements while avoiding taxes on the distribution.

Keep Beneficiary Designations Up to Date

IRA beneficiary forms override what is written in your Will or Trust. If a marriage ends, a child predeceases you, or relationships change, failing to update your designations could leave assets to the wrong person or even require probate.  Speak with your plan administrator if you wish to leave assets to a minor to ensure the proper wording is utilized.

Reviewing all retirement accounts regularly guarantees that you’ve listed the correct beneficiaries and have contingent options in place. Similarly, you should review and update your entire estate plan every few years to ensure that it reflects your changing life circumstances, current values and applicable laws. Reach out today to schedule a consultation and secure your legacy.

Key Takeaways

• Know how taxation affects beneficiaries: Non-spouse heirs must withdraw funds quickly, which can create a higher tax bill.
• Use trusts to manage control and risk: Naming a trust can ensure that inheritance is distributed responsibly.
• Reduce taxes with lifetime strategies: Roth conversions and QCDs can shrink future RMDs and protect your heirs from steep tax consequences.
• Keep IRA designations current: Beneficiary forms take precedence over wills, so they must reflect your latest wishes.

Reference: The American College of Trust and Estate Counsel (March 4, 2025) “IRA Estate Planning Ideas to Discuss with Your Clients”