Early Withdrawal

Question: Early Withdrawal Penalty from Roth IRA?

A couple years back i took $4000 from my savings and put it into a roth IRA. I hit a rough stretch this year and needed the money back, so i withdrew the money early from the Roth. When i withdrew, it was up to $4570. My question is…….. what do i have to pay a penalty or income tax on? Just the $570 i made while the money was invested, or on the whole amount? I don’t meet any exemptions.

Answer: Dear Charlie: Seems like you are getting some conflicting info. Roth contributions are after tax contributions and can be with drawn at anytime tax and penalty free (10 minutes or 10 years). Your earnings are the other part of your question ($570) and have special rules. Your earnings must satisfy two requirements (1) age 59 1/2 and (2) 5 years in the account. Earnings when withdrawn are taxed and if they do not meet the test above 1&2 they will have the 10% penalty.

See IRS Pub. 17 page 118-130 and IRS Pub 590

This advice was prepared based on our understanding of the tax law in effect at the time it was written as it applies to the facts that you provided. Click on my profile to read more.
Errol Quinn Enrolled Agent Master Tax Advisor

Roth IRA Conversion 2010