Question

A mother, aged 60, wishes to withdraw monies from her variable annuity to pay for her son's college education. Which statement is true regarding the taxation of the withdrawal?

A. The withdrawal is 100% taxable
B. Any amount withdrawn above the cost basis is taxable
C. Any amount withdrawn above the cost basis is taxable, and is subject to a 10% penalty tax
D. The withdrawal is not subject to tax

Answer 1

Any amount withdrawn above the cost basis is taxable

Step-by-step explanation:

This woman is above 59½ years at age 60. If she was least than 60, she would be owing a 10% penalty on the taxable amount of this withdrawal. But since she is above this age she has to pay income taxes on the whole taxable amount of the funds she withdrew. Variable annuities would never be taxed the money is withdrawn. Therefore option B is the best answer for This question.