RMD Calculator
Calculate your Required Minimum Distributions (RMDs) from retirement accounts. Determine how much you must withdraw annually to avoid IRS penalties.
RMD Results
Future RMDs
Penalty Information
Missed RMD Penalty: $0
Correction Window: Until tax filing deadline
Reduced Penalty: 10% if corrected timely
Warning: Missing RMDs can result in significant penalties
Understanding Required Minimum Distributions
Required Minimum Distributions (RMDs) are mandatory withdrawals from retirement accounts that must begin by April 1 following the year you reach age 73 (or 75 if born after 1950). The IRS requires these distributions to ensure taxes are collected on retirement savings.
RMD Rules by Account Type
| Account Type | RMD Age | RMD Required | Exceptions |
|---|---|---|---|
| Traditional IRA | 73 (75 if born after 1950) | Yes | Still working exception |
| 401(k) | 73 (75 if born after 1950) | Yes | Still working for plan sponsor |
| 403(b) | 73 (75 if born after 1950) | Yes | Still working exception |
| Roth IRA | Never | No | No RMDs during lifetime |
| SEP IRA | 73 (75 if born after 1950) | Yes | Still working exception |
How RMDs Are Calculated
RMDs are calculated by dividing the account balance by a life expectancy factor from IRS tables.
RMD = Account Balance ÷ Life Expectancy Factor
Example: $500,000 ÷ 25.6 = $19,531 annual RMD
Life Expectancy Tables
- Uniform Lifetime Table: Used by most account owners
- Single Life Expectancy: Based on account owner's age
- Joint Life Expectancy: For married couples (longer payouts)
- Divorced/Non-Spouse Beneficiaries: Use Single Life Expectancy table
RMD Timing and Deadlines
- First RMD Deadline: April 1 following the year you reach RMD age
- Subsequent RMDs: By December 31 each year
- Delay First RMD: If still working and not 5%+ owner
- Multiple Accounts: Can aggregate RMDs across similar accounts
Penalties for Missing RMDs
Missing RMDs can result in significant IRS penalties.
- Initial Penalty: 25% of the amount not distributed
- Correction Window: Until tax filing deadline (including extensions)
- Reduced Penalty: 10% if corrected within correction window
- No Correction: 25% penalty becomes permanent
RMD Strategies
- Qualified Charitable Distributions: Direct RMDs to charity tax-free
- Convert to Roth: Pay taxes now, avoid future RMDs
- Delay if Working: Postpone RMDs if still employed
- Annual Reviews: Recalculate RMDs each year
- Tax Planning: Time RMDs with other income sources
Important: RMD rules can change, and penalties for non-compliance are severe. Consult with a tax professional or financial advisor for personalized advice. This calculator provides estimates only and should not be used as sole guidance for RMD planning.