The code number or letter found in Box 7 of a Form 1099-R shows the type of transaction reported in that tax year. Here is a guide to the most common IRS distribution codes found on the Forms 1099-R we send to policy owners. For more information, please see the instructions associated with Form 1099-R on the IRS website.
1. Early distribution, no known exception. Code 1 is generally used when the taxpayer is under the age of 59½.
6. Section 1035 exchange. Code 6 is used for a tax-free exchange of a life insurance, annuity, long-term care insurance, or endowment contract under section 1035.
7. Normal distribution. Code 7 is generally used for a normal distribution in which taxpayer is over the age of 59½.
W. Charges or payments for purchasing qualified long-term care insurance contracts under combined arrangements. Code W is used to report charges or payments for purchasing qualified long-term care insurance against the cash surrender value of a life insurance policy.