RMD Calculator
Calculate this year's Required Minimum Distribution from your IRA or 401(k) using the IRS Uniform Lifetime Table.
Updated October 2026
Uses the IRS Uniform Lifetime Table — the standard case. If your sole beneficiary is a spouse more than 10 years younger, a different (Joint Life) table applies. Your first RMD can be delayed to April 1 of the year after you turn 73; missing an RMD triggers a penalty (25%, or 10% if corrected promptly). Inherited IRAs follow separate rules.
This is an estimate for general information only and is not financial, tax or investment advice. Figures may differ from a lender or advisor.
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Once you reach age 73, the IRS requires you to start withdrawing a minimum amount from your traditional IRA and most workplace retirement accounts each year — the Required Minimum Distribution (RMD). This calculator gives this year's RMD from your account balance and age, so you can take at least that much and avoid the penalty.
The math is simple: your balance on December 31 of last year divided by a distribution period from the IRS Uniform Lifetime Table, which shrinks as you age — so the percentage you must withdraw rises each year. Roth IRAs are exempt during the owner's lifetime, and the rules differ for inherited accounts.
How to use it
- 1Enter your retirement account balance as of December 31 last year.
- 2Enter your age this year.
- 3Read your required minimum distribution for the year, and the IRS distribution period used.
- 4Take at least that amount by the deadline to avoid the penalty.
Frequently asked questions
At what age do RMDs start?+
Under SECURE 2.0, RMDs begin at age 73 for those who turned 72 after 2022, and the start age rises to 75 in 2033. Your very first RMD can be delayed until April 1 of the year after you turn 73, but every RMD after that is due by December 31.
How is the RMD calculated?+
Take your prior-year-end balance and divide by the distribution period for your age from the IRS Uniform Lifetime Table. For example, at 73 the period is 26.5, so a $500,000 balance gives an RMD of about $18,868.
What happens if I don't take my RMD?+
The shortfall is hit with a penalty — 25% of the amount you failed to withdraw, reduced to 10% if you correct it promptly. That's on top of the regular income tax you owe on the distribution, so it's worth taking at least the minimum on time.
Do Roth accounts have RMDs?+
Roth IRAs have no RMDs during the owner's lifetime, and as of 2024 Roth 401(k)s no longer require them either. Traditional IRAs, SEP/SIMPLE IRAs and pre-tax 401(k) balances do. Inherited accounts follow separate rules.
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