08/27/2026
An inherited IRA can come with a tax bill that families aren't expecting.
Under the 10-year rule, many non-spouse beneficiaries are required to fully distribute an inherited IRA within 10 years.
For adult children who inherit during their peak earning years, those distributions may be added on top of income they're already earning.
That's why beneficiary planning isn't only about who inherits your retirement accounts. It's also worth considering how those assets may eventually be taxed.
We take a closer look at the 10-year rule and what it could mean for your heirs:
Learn how the 10-year rule affects inherited IRAs, why many heirs pay more tax than expected, and how Roth conversions may help preserve more of your family's wealth.