Both the House and Senate unanimously and in record-time passed the Worker, Retiree, and Employer Recovery Act of 2008, clearing the way for the President's signature. This new tax law temporarily suspends the requirement for taxpayers age 70-1/2 and older (and their beneficiaries) to make annual minimum distributions from their retirement plan accounts. This will provide older Americans some much-needed financial flexibility as they struggle to manage their finances during this difficult economic time.

Tax laws generally require individuals with retirement accounts to make required withdrawals based on the size of their account and their age every year after age 70-1/2. The new law suspends the required minimum distribution from retirement accounts in 2009. This waiver, available to everyone regardless of their total retirement account balances, applies to all defined-contribution plans, including 401(k), 403(b), 457(b), and IRA accounts. Suspending the mandatory withdrawal allows retirees to keep the money in their account if they choose, and possibly recover some losses. The suspension for 2009 also applies to beneficiaries of retirement plan accounts and IRA owners.

Wishing you many happy returns,

Dr. Wayne T. Essex