RMD Calculator — Required Minimum Distribution for 2026
Once you turn 73, the IRS requires you to withdraw a minimum amount each year from traditional IRAs and most 401(k)s — miss it, and the penalty is steep (25% of the shortfall, reduced to 10% if corrected quickly). This calculator applies the IRS Uniform Lifetime Table to your account balance and age to find your required withdrawal.
Uses the IRS Uniform Lifetime Table (for account owners whose spouse is not more than 10 years younger and sole beneficiary). RMD age is 73 currently, rising to 75 in 2033 under SECURE 2.0.
Uses the IRS Uniform Lifetime Table. Different tables apply if your sole beneficiary is a spouse more than 10 years younger. Not tax advice — confirm your exact RMD with your account custodian or a tax professional.
How to use this tool
- Enter your age as of December 31 this year — RMDs are required starting the year you turn 73.
- Enter your traditional IRA/401(k) balance as of December 31 of last year (that's the figure the IRS uses).
- Press Calculate to see your required withdrawal for this year using the IRS Uniform Lifetime Table.
- If you have multiple IRAs, you can total the RMDs and withdraw the combined amount from any one (or a mix) of them — 401(k)s are different, each must satisfy its own RMD separately.
Frequently asked questions
At what age do RMDs start?
Age 73 currently (as of 2023-2032 under SECURE 2.0), rising to 75 starting in 2033. Your very first RMD can be delayed until April 1 of the following year, but then you'd need to take two distributions that year — most people just take it by December 31 of the year they turn 73.
What happens if I miss an RMD?
The IRS penalty is 25% of the amount you should have withdrawn, reduced to 10% if you correct the shortfall within two years. It's one of the steepest penalties in the tax code — set a reminder or automate the withdrawal.
Do Roth IRAs have RMDs?
No — Roth IRAs are exempt from RMDs during the original owner's lifetime (as of 2024, this also applies to Roth 401(k)s). Traditional IRAs, SEP IRAs, SIMPLE IRAs and traditional 401(k)/403(b) plans do require RMDs.
Can I reinvest my RMD if I don't need the cash?
You can't put it back into the same tax-deferred account, but you can reinvest the after-tax proceeds into a taxable brokerage account, or (if you have earned income) into a Roth IRA subject to normal contribution limits. A Qualified Charitable Distribution (QCD) is another option that can satisfy the RMD while donating directly to charity, tax-free.