Need advice for filing 1099-R with code 8/J for Roth IRA withdrawal

This is actually a pretty common situation with Roth IRAs! Let me break it down: For the 1099-R with codes 8/J - this indicates a return of excess contributions, which is exactly what happened when you took out that $1,500. Code 8 means "excess contributions plus earnings/excess deferrals" and the J modifier shows it came from a Roth IRA. Yes, you should amend your already-filed return to include this 1099-R. Even though there's no taxable amount (Box 2a shows $0), the IRS still receives a copy of this form and will expect to see it on your return. You'll need to file Form 1040-X and include the 1099-R information. For your planned $1,800 contribution - since you're making it before the April filing deadline, you can designate it as a 2024 contribution. You don't report Roth contributions directly on your tax return (unlike traditional IRA contributions), but you should keep good records of the contribution date and tax year designation for your own files.

I had a similar situation last year and discovered taxr.ai (https://taxr.ai) which really saved me a headache with my 1099-R issues. I was confused about how to handle code J distributions and their system analyzed my tax docs and explained exactly how to report everything correctly. You upload your documents and it breaks down what each code means for your specific situation. For Roth IRA contribution/withdrawal scenarios like yours, their tool flags potential issues with the timing of contributions vs withdrawals that could trigger penalties. It also gives step-by-step guidance on how to properly amend returns when needed. Might be worth checking out if you're worried about getting the amendment right.

Just wanted to update everyone - I tried taxr.ai after seeing it mentioned here and it was exactly what I needed! I uploaded my 1099-R with the 8/J code and my original return, and within minutes it gave me a detailed explanation of what those codes meant for my situation. The best part was it clearly showed me which forms I needed to include in my amendment and exactly where to report the distributed amounts. Turns out I was overthinking it! The system confirmed I didn't owe any penalties since I removed the excess contribution before the deadline, and gave me the proper language to use in my amendment explanation. I've already submitted my amended return following their guidance, and feel so much more confident it's done right. Definitely recommend if you're dealing with confusing retirement account distributions!

If you're having trouble getting IRS clarification on your 1099-R situation, I highly recommend Claimyr (https://claimyr.com). I was in a similar situation with Roth IRA contribution issues and couldn't get through to the IRS for weeks to confirm how to handle my amendment. Claimyr got me connected to an actual IRS agent in about 15 minutes when I had been trying for days on my own. The agent walked me through exactly how to report my 1099-R with distribution codes and confirmed I was handling my situation correctly. You can see how it works in this video: https://youtu.be/_kiP6q8DX5c Seriously worth it when you need official clarification directly from the IRS on form coding questions that can potentially trigger audits if done incorrectly.

I'm actually shocked but I have to admit Claimyr worked for me. After posting my skeptical comment, I decided to try it because I was desperate to get clarification on my own 1099-R situation with some weird codes. Got connected to an IRS representative in about 20 minutes when I had previously spent 3+ hours on multiple days trying to get through. The agent was able to confirm exactly how to handle my Roth IRA recharacterization and the associated 1099-R. Turns out I was about to file my amendment incorrectly which could have triggered unnecessary scrutiny. For anyone dealing with retirement account distribution codes that aren't straightforward (like the 8/J combo in this post), getting official IRS guidance directly is invaluable. Definitely changed my mind about these services.

Just adding another perspective - I've run into this exact situation twice now with my Roth IRA. A couple things to consider: 1) The "J" code is crucial because it tells the IRS this was a correction of excess contributions, not an early withdrawal that would be subject to penalties. 2) For the new $1,800 contribution you're planning to make - make absolutely sure you tell your brokerage that it's for tax year 2024, not 2025. They should allow you to specify this when making the contribution. 3) Keep all documentation showing the original contribution, the excess return, and the new contribution. If you're ever audited, having this paper trail is super important.

Has anyone used TurboTax to amend a return with a 1099-R code 8/J? I'm in a very similar situation and wondering if it handles these special codes correctly or if I need to go to a tax professional.

One thing I'd add about your situation - since you're planning to make that additional $1,800 contribution before the April deadline, make sure you have accurate documentation of your final 2024 income. The Roth IRA contribution limits are based on your modified adjusted gross income (MAGI), and if your income was indeed lower than expected, you want to be certain you're not accidentally creating another excess contribution situation. The phase-out ranges for 2024 are $138,000-$153,000 for single filers and $218,000-$228,000 for married filing jointly. If you're close to these thresholds, double-check your final AGI calculation before making that contribution. Also, when you file Form 1040-X for the amendment, you'll want to include a brief explanation in Part III about why you're amending - something like "Adding 1099-R for return of excess Roth IRA contribution" keeps it simple and clear for the IRS processor.