RMD Calculators & Guides
Calculate your required minimum distributions, understand the rules, and plan to minimize the tax and Medicare impact of your annual RMDs.
Understanding Required Minimum Distributions
What is an RMD?
A Required Minimum Distribution (RMD) is the minimum amount the IRS requires you to withdraw from your traditional IRA, 401(k), 403(b), and most other retirement accounts each year once you reach a certain age.
RMDs exist because these accounts hold pre-tax money. The IRS wants to ensure that money eventually gets taxed as ordinary income.
When do RMDs start? (SECURE 2.0 rules)
Under SECURE 2.0 Act (2022), the RMD starting age depends on your birth year:
- Born 1950 or earlier: age 72
- Born 1951–1959: age 73
- Born 1960 or later: age 75
Your first RMD can be delayed until April 1 of the year after you reach your required beginning date — but you'll then have to take two RMDs that year.
The 25% penalty
If you miss your RMD deadline or withdraw less than the required amount, the IRS charges a penalty of 25% of the shortfall. If you correct the mistake within 2 years, the penalty drops to 10%.
This is one of the most expensive tax mistakes in retirement planning — our calculator helps you avoid it.
RMDs and IRMAA
RMD withdrawals are added to your Modified Adjusted Gross Income (MAGI), which Medicare uses to set IRMAA surcharges with a 2-year lookback. A large RMD in 2024 can raise your 2026 Medicare premiums.
Our calculator links directly to the IRMAA calculator so you can check the Medicare impact of your required withdrawals.