8915-F Qualified Disaster Distributions
A qualified disaster distribution, as defined by the IRS, allows individuals affected by federally declared disasters to access funds from retirement accounts without incurring the usual early withdrawal penalties. These distributions are reported using Form 8915-F, which is specifically designed for qualified disaster recovery distributions for tax years 2021 and later.
What Is a Qualified Disaster Distribution?
For tax years 2021 and later, qualified disaster distributions include:
- Distributions related to the Puerto Rico Earthquakes (DR-4473-PR) reported on 2021 Form 8915-D.
- Distributions for qualified 2020 disasters reported on 2021 Form 8915-F (2020 disasters).
- Distributions for qualified 2021 and later disasters, as declared by FEMA and listed on Form 8915-F.
Tax Treatment of Qualified Disaster Distributions
Generally, a qualified disaster distribution is included in your income in equal amounts over 3 years, starting with the year the distribution was made. However, you may elect to include the entire amount in the year of distribution.
Note: If you choose to treat a distribution as a qualified disaster distribution, it is not eligible for the 20% capital gain election or the 10-year tax option. For details on those options, refer to the instructions for Form 4972.
Reporting Requirements
To report qualified disaster distributions, you must complete Form 8915-F. Key instructions include:
- List up to two disasters in the provided spaces under Part I. For more than two, attach a statement with your name, SSN, FEMA number, disaster declaration date, and disaster beginning date.
- Complete Part I and, as applicable, Parts II, III, and IV if qualified disaster distributions were made to you for a disaster listed in item C of the form.
- Use Worksheet 1B to calculate distributions for multiple disasters. Enter total available distributions and qualified distributions made in the year.
Eligibility Criteria
A distribution qualifies as a disaster distribution if:
- The distribution was made due to a federally declared disaster.
- The funds were used to repair or replace property damaged in the disaster.
- The distribution was used to purchase or construct a main home in the disaster’s qualified area (if not already purchased or constructed due to the disaster).
Important Deadlines
The last day to make a qualified disaster distribution depends on the declaration date and beginning date of the disaster. For example:
- For disasters declared in February 2025, the last day to make a qualified distribution is July 30, 2025.
- For disasters declared in September 2025, the last day is February 27, 2026.
Source:
Form 8915-F (Rev. 12-2025) - Qualified Disaster Distribution
Disclaimer: Always verify details with official Federal or State Department of Revenue Forms and Instructions.