IRMAA, Widow Status, Roth Conversions, Annuity RMDs, and Rollovers: Q&A #2538

Jim and Chris discuss listener questions on IRMAA reductions and Roth-conversion effects, widow filing status and IRMAA, in-kind stock Roth conversions and RMD transfers, annuity RMD interactions, and 60-day rollover mail timing.

(7:45) George asks whether an approved SSA Form 44 that reduced 2025 IRMAA will also govern next year, how a large 2026 Roth conversion will be trued up and affect future IRMAA brackets, and whether that conversion will cause higher IRMAA in multiple subsequent years.

(18:45) A listener wonders if a recently widowed spouse’s IRMAA in 2026 will reflect single status or remain based on the 2024 joint tax return.

(24:45) The guys ask whether in-kind stock Roth conversions change the stock’s tax basis inside a Roth and whether an in-kind RMD transfer to a brokerage establishes a stepped-up basis.

(49:45) Jim and Chris consider a hypothetical where an IRA annuity’s annual payout might be less than the RMD and what happens if the RMD exceeds the annuity payment.

(1:02:15) One listener argues that claiming a mailed check took longer than 60 days to arrive is implausible because USPS optical scans and Informed Delivery images could let the IRS verify delivery dates.

The post IRMAA, Widow Status, Roth Conversions, Annuity RMDs, and Rollovers: Q&A #2538 appeared first on The Retirement and IRA Show.