1099-R Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is a 1099-R?
A: IRS Form 1099-R is an annual statement of disbursements and applicable taxes paid by a retirement plan. Each year, OPERS sends a 1099-R to all retired members who received benefits in the previous calendar year, or any active members who took a distribution of their employee contributions after they left employment with a participating employer.
Q: When are 1099-R forms mailed?
A: Forms will be mailed no later than January 31st of the current year. Please allow for normal delivery time. If you have not received your Form 1099-R by February 16th contact OPERS.
Q: Why is the taxable amount (Box 2a) less than the gross distribution (Box 1)?
A: You may have had after-tax dollars in your account at retirement. (This occurs if you made after-tax retirement contributions, used after-tax money to make a purchase, etc.) This reduces the taxable portion of the total amount, thus accounting for the difference in the two amounts.
Q: Where do I find the amount withheld for federal and state taxes?
A: The amount of federal income tax withheld is located in Box 4, and the state tax withheld is found in Box 10.
Q: What does the number in Box 7 represent?
A: See the back side of copy "C" of your 1099-R form for an explanation of distribution codes.
Q: Box 11 is left blank. What is that number?
A: The number for Box 11 is the same as the Payer's Federal Identification Number on the left side of the form.
Q: Why did I receive multiple 1099s from OPERS?
A: If you received more than one 1099-R form from OPERS, it means you also received a distribution as a beneficiary of someone else's account. You should be able to determine from the amounts which 1099-R is for which distribution, but if you still have questions, contact OPERS.
Q: How do I determine how much was withheld from my retirement for medical insurance premiums?
A: If you had medical insurance premiums withheld from your OPERS benefits, that amount will be clearly marked in the 'Account Number' box on your 1099.
Q: How do I get a duplicate copy of my 1099-R?
A: You may request a duplicate Form 1099-R in writing, by e-mail, or by calling OPERS. All requests must include your name, Social Security number, tax year requested, mailing address, the benefit type, daytime telephone number, and signature. Please allow 10-15 business days to receive your 1099-R.