Q. My husband (retired FERS) turned 70 in March and has more than $200,000 in the Thrift Savings Plan. Our understanding is that he must begin withdrawal by April 2013. We owe $100,000 on our home. Is it better to take out enough to pay off the house or schedule the minimum monthly withdrawal?
A. The smart move will depend upon your mortgage terms and how you manage the TSP money. If I were responsible for the outcome, I’d prefer to see you continue the mortgage, if it’s at a market fixed rate, and take the required minimum distribution from the TSP account.
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If I am not mistaken, since you are waiting until the year after he turns 70.5, you will need to take two distributions in 2013. Instead of one in 2012 and one in 2013.