RMD calculator
Your required minimum distribution from an IRA or 401(k), with the IRS Uniform Lifetime Table.
About this calculator
This RMD calculator works out the required minimum distribution you must take each year from a traditional IRA, 401(k) or similar retirement account.
Enter your year of birth and last year's closing balance. It uses the current IRS Uniform Lifetime Table and projects your RMDs for the next 15 years.
How it works
Your RMD is last year’s closing balance ÷ the distribution period for your age in the IRS Uniform Lifetime Table. RMDs start at 73, or 75 if you were born in 1960 or later. Roth IRAs need no RMDs while the owner is alive.
Last reviewed:
Worked example
- Year of birth: 1,952
- Distribution year: 2,026
- Balance on December 31 of the year before: $500,000
- Expected return: 5% a year
Required minimum distribution: $19,607.84 (for this year)
Common questions
When do I have to take my first RMD?
By April 1 of the year after you turn 73, or 75 if you were born in 1960 or later. After that, each RMD is due by December 31.
What happens if I miss an RMD?
The IRS can charge an excise tax of 25% of the amount you didn't take, reduced to 10% if you correct it quickly.
Do Roth IRAs have RMDs?
Not for the original owner. Since 2024, Roth accounts in workplace plans, such as a Roth 401(k), don't need RMDs either.
Sources and further reading
The story behind it
Where the idea came from: The rule that savers must start withdrawing at 70½ arrived with IRAs themselves, created by the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974.
Congress raised the starting age to 72 with the SECURE Act of 2019 and to 73 with SECURE 2.0 in 2023, which also sets 75 for people born in 1960 or later. The aim is the same: tax-deferred savings must eventually be withdrawn and taxed.
Why you can trust this calculator
- It runs in your browser. Nothing you type into it is sent anywhere.
- The method is explained on this page, so you can check it yourself.
- Free to use, with no sign-up.
- Results are estimates, not financial advice.
- Spotted a mistake? Tell us and we'll look into it.
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