For 2009, you are not required to take an RMD from your IRA or most defined contribution retirement plans. This waiver applies to plan participants as well as to beneficiaries. The waiver also applies to you if you turn 70 1/2 in 2009 and delay your 2009 RMD until April 1, 2010. The waiver does not apply to RMDs for 2008, even if you turned 70 1/2 in 2008 and you choose to take the 2008 RMD by April 1, 2009.

For more information on the waiver of RMDs from IRAs, see Publication 590. For more information on the waiver of RMDs from employer-provided qualified retirement plans, see Publication 575.