RMD Calculator
Find the minimum you must take out of your 401k or IRA this year, when it starts, and what future years could look like.
What we noticed
Year by year
How this calculator works
Once you reach the starting age, you must take out a minimum amount each year. We divide your account balance on December 31 of last year by the IRS distribution period for your age, from the Uniform Lifetime Table.
If you were born in 1951 through 1959, withdrawals start at 73. If you were born in 1960 or later, they start at 75. We also project future years, using the growth rate you choose.
This uses the standard table. If your spouse is the only beneficiary and is more than 10 years younger, a different IRS table gives a smaller amount.
RMD rules at a glance
| Born 1951 to 1959 | Withdrawals start at age 73 |
|---|---|
| Born 1960 or later | Withdrawals start at age 75 |
| First withdrawal due | By April 1 of the year after you reach the starting age |
| Later withdrawals due | By December 31 each year |
| Missed withdrawal | 25% tax on the shortfall, or 10% if fixed within two years |
| Sample divisors | Age 73: 26.5. Age 75: 24.6. Age 80: 20.2. Age 85: 16.0. Age 90: 12.2. |
Frequently asked questions
What is a required minimum distribution?
It is the least you must take out of most retirement accounts each year once you reach the starting age. The money is taxed as income.
At what age do RMDs start?
At 73 if you were born from 1951 to 1959, and at 75 if you were born in 1960 or later.
What if I am still working?
If you are still working and do not own 5% or more of the company, you can usually delay withdrawals from that employer's 401k until you retire. IRAs and old 401ks still need them.
Do Roth accounts have RMDs?
Not during your lifetime. A Roth IRA never did, and Roth 401k accounts stopped having them from 2024.
What if I miss an RMD?
The penalty is a 25% tax on the amount you should have taken, or 10% if you correct it within two years. Contact your plan or a tax professional if you miss one.