Facts: both my wife and I turn 55 in 2000. I in feb, she in Oct. We want to use the Joint life expectancy division factor for the periodic payouts.

I would ask the question why? You can also use the "amortization" & "annuity" methods which may yield results that better suit your needs.

Q1.To determine the numerator of the calculation, do I use the total value of all my IRAs(both deductable and non-deductable, but not my Roth) as of Dec 31, 1999?

A1. You have a variety of choices; you could use a total as you describe or you can fracture some of your accounts and use a lesser number. Further, you can valuate as of 12/31/99 or any other date (typically a month-end) that preceeds the commencement of SEPP's.


Q2.Do I wait until my wife's birthday in Oct before I can determine the joint life factor for 55/55 and use it as the denominator in determining the 2000 payout?

A2. For you purposes of computation, you would compute both of your ages as of 12/31/2000.


Q3. If I take money out of any IRA before her birthday but after mine, do I use the 55/54 life factor?

A3. No.