As a non-spouse who inherited a traditional IRA, how fast do I have to withdraw the money?

Under the SECURE Act, most non-spouse beneficiaries must empty an inherited IRA within 10 years of the original owner's death. There's no more lifetime stretch for most heirs. Whether you must also take annual required distributions during those 10 years depends on whether the original owner had already begun their own required minimum distributions; the IRS finalized these rules, so confirm current guidance at irs.gov.

Because traditional IRA withdrawals are taxed as ordinary income, dumping it all in year 10 can spike your tax bracket. Many heirs spread withdrawals across the decade to smooth the tax hit, especially in lower-income years. Certain eligible designated beneficiaries (a spouse, minor child, disabled or chronically ill person) get more favorable treatment. Plan the timing deliberately.