Ten-year averaging is a method used to calculate income tax on a lump-sum distribution from a qualified benefit plan. This method was designed to reduce the tax liability of the beneficiary on large, one-time distributions. The ten-year averaging rule applies to individuals who were participants in a qualified benefit plan, were at least 50 years of age before January 1, 1986, and had been participants in the plan for at least five years before the year they receive the distribution.
