EXPLAINED: Inherited IRA & 401(k) Spousal Rules | Guide to RMDs, Rollovers & Tax Deadlines

00:00 – Intro
00:58 – Step 1: The Fast Decision Map
01:04 – 1. What type of account is it?
01:35 – 2. When did your spouse die relative to their Required Beginning Date (RBD)?
02:24 – 3. Are you the sole beneficiary spouse?
02:48 – One last filter to keep in mind — your age matters too
03:27 – Step 2: Core Options for Spouses (IRAs)
03:30 – Option A: Treat the IRA as Your Own (Spousal Rollover)
06:09 – Option B: Remain a Beneficiary (Inherited IRA in Your Name)
06:24 – Now, here’s how the rules break down
08:40 – Option C: Elect the 10-Year Rule (or the 5-Year Rule in rare cases)
11:01 – Step 3: SECURE 2.0 Spousal Election (Employer Plans)
12:14 – Step 4: Year-of-Death RMD
12:59 – Step 5: Rollovers from Employer Plans
14:18 – Should You Leave It in the Employer Plan or Roll It Over?
16:37 – Step 6: Taxes & Strategy
17:42 – Action Steps
18:54 – Bloopers

Confused about what happens when a spouse inherits an IRA or 401(k)? This video breaks down the 2025 IRS rules for surviving spouses, including Required Minimum Distributions (RMDs), rollover options, the new SECURE 2.0 spousal election, and key tax deadlines. You’ll learn the pros and cons of treating the account as your own IRA vs. keeping it as an inherited IRA, how the “younger spouse” rule can lower RMDs, and when the 10-year rule applies. Avoid costly IRS penalties, minimize taxes, and make the most of your inheritance with this complete step-by-step guide.

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Disclaimer: Please note that this video is made for entertainment purposes only and not to be taken as financial advice. Always make sure to do your own research.

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