A Roth IRA is an individual retirement account (IRA) that is funded with money on which income taxes have been paid—but distributions may be taken without paying income tax (tax free) if certain conditions are met—for example if you are at least 59 ½ years old when you begin taking distributions and have had a Roth IRA account for at least five years.

There are no required minimum distributions (RMDs) in the original Roth IRA account owner’s lifetime. And the original Roth IRA account owner can provide their heirs with years of tax-free income (distributions) by properly designating a beneficiary or using the proper trust (a conduit trust) that takes out the required minimum distributions each year.

Because of the complexity, pitfalls, and laws that are constantly evolving, a Roth IRA account owner who wants to leave this asset to heirs should consult with a legal or financial professional who is familiar with the rules.

In Kansas, as in all states, Roth IRAs are governed by federal law, specifically the Internal Revenue Code. Contributions to a Roth IRA are made with after-tax dollars, meaning the contributions are not tax-deductible. However, qualified distributions, which can be taken after the account owner is 59 1/2 years old and has held the account for at least five years, are tax-free. Unlike traditional IRAs, Roth IRAs do not require minimum distributions during the lifetime of the original owner, allowing the assets to potentially grow tax-free for a longer period. Upon the death of the account owner, beneficiaries can inherit the Roth IRA and may be able to take distributions tax-free. Proper estate planning, including designating beneficiaries or setting up a trust, is crucial to ensure that heirs can benefit from the Roth IRA's tax advantages. Due to the intricacies of estate planning and tax laws, it is advisable for Roth IRA owners in Kansas to consult with an attorney or financial advisor to ensure compliance with current regulations and to maximize the benefits for their heirs.