Roth IRA conversion after age 70 1/2

[Guest rwroth]

Can someone over age 70 1/2 receiving his annual minimum required distributions from a standard IRA convert to a Roth IRA, and if so, under what circumstances, i.e. AGI? When would such a conversion (assuming it could be done) be advantageous?

[BPickerCPA]

The rule is that you have to take your annual required distribution before you can convert to a roth. The required minimum cannot be converted.

If, after taking the minimum, your income is still no greater than $100,000, you can convert.

I give no public opinions as to whether it's advisable in individual cases.

[Guest rwroth]

Thank you for the reply. One further question: Is the AGI maximum $150,000 if filing a joint return?

Roy

[BPickerCPA]

The income limit for conversion is $100,000 period. If you file married filing separate then there is no income limit since you will then be prohibited from converting.