IRS Form 1099-Q: Education Account Distributions

Form 1099-Q reports distributions from 529 plans and Coverdell ESAs for education expenses.

What Is Form 1099-Q?

Tracks withdrawals from qualified education savings programs.

Key Components:

  • Gross distribution amount (Box 1)
  • Earnings portion (Box 2) - potentially taxable
  • Basis/contributions portion (Box 3) - always tax-free
  • Account type indicator (529 plan or Coverdell ESA)
Who Receives Form 1099-Q?
  • Beneficiaries or account owners taking distributions
  • Students receiving education expense payments
  • Those transferring between 529 plans
  • Families making K-12 tuition payments (up to $10,000/year)
  • Recipients of student loan repayments (lifetime $10,000 limit)
Tax Implications
  • Qualified distributions: Tax-free when used for approved expenses
  • Nonqualified distributions: Earnings subject to income tax + 10% penalty
  • Special rules for scholarships and K-12 expenses
  • Coordination required with American Opportunity/Lifetime Learning credits
  • Rollovers to Roth IRAs now permitted under SECURE 2.0 Act
How to Report 1099-Q

Filing requirements:

  • Compare distributions to qualified education expenses
  • Report taxable earnings on Form 1040 (Line 8b if nonqualified)
  • File Form 5329 for any applicable penalties
  • Maintain documentation showing expense eligibility
  • Coordinate with Form 1098-T from educational institution
Key Planning Tips
  • Keep detailed records of all education expenses (tuition, fees, books, etc.)
  • Understand qualified vs. nonqualified expenses
  • Time distributions to match expense payments
  • Consider impact on financial aid eligibility
  • Explore new Roth IRA rollover options for unused funds
Related Forms & Documents
  • Form 1098-T (Tuition Statement)
  • Form 5329 (Additional Taxes on Qualified Plans)
  • Form 1040 (Individual Tax Return)
  • Form 8863 (Education Credits)
  • Institution billing statements

Need Help With Education Account Distributions?

KARME Tax Services ensures optimal tax treatment of your 529 or ESA withdrawals.

Call 972-519-0041 for specialized education tax planning.