Required Minimum Distribution (RMD) Calculator
Required Minimum Distribution Calculator
The Required Minimum Distribution Calculator helps retirees estimate the minimum amount they must withdraw each year from their traditional IRAs, 401k plans, and other qualified retirement accounts. Starting at age 73, the IRS requires these distributions, and failing to take the full RMD results in a penalty of 25 percent of the amount not withdrawn.
The SECURE 2.0 Act raised the RMD starting age from 72 to 73 for those turning 72 after 2022. It will increase further to 75 in 2033. Once RMDs start, the required percentage increases each year because the IRS life expectancy factors decrease with age.
RMDs are calculated by dividing the account balance as of December 31 of the previous year by a distribution period factor from the IRS Uniform Lifetime Table. Most retirees use this table, which assumes a beneficiary 10 years younger. The factor at age 73 is 26.5 years, requiring about 3.77 percent withdrawal. By age 90, the factor drops to 12.2 years, requiring about 8.20 percent.
Enter your account balance as of December 31 of the previous year and your current age. Press Calculate to see your RMD for the current year, the distribution period factor used, and the required withdrawal percentage.
For example, a 75-year-old with a $500,000 IRA has a distribution period of 24.6 years, requiring an RMD of about $20,325 or 4.07 percent of the balance. By age 85, the same account would require an RMD of about $38,760 or 7.75 percent.
Estimated RMD amounts for various account balances at different ages:
| Balance | Age 73 | Age 75 | Age 80 | Age 85 | Age 90 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $200,000 | $7,547 | $8,130 | $9,901 | $12,500 | $16,393 |
| $400,000 | $15,094 | $16,260 | $19,802 | $25,000 | $32,787 |
| $600,000 | $22,642 | $24,390 | $29,703 | $37,500 | $49,180 |
| $800,000 | $30,189 | $32,520 | $39,604 | $50,000 | $65,574 |
| $1,000,000 | $37,736 | $40,650 | $49,505 | $62,500 | $81,967 |
Consider converting some of your traditional IRA to a Roth IRA before RMDs begin. Roth IRAs are not subject to RMDs, and conversions can reduce future RMD obligations. However, conversions are taxable, so plan them carefully to avoid pushing yourself into a higher tax bracket.
If you do not need the RMD income, consider donating up to $100,000 directly to a qualified charity through a Qualified Charitable Distribution. QCDs satisfy your RMD while excluding the distribution from taxable income.
This calculator uses the Uniform Lifetime Table. If your spouse is your sole beneficiary and more than 10 years younger, the Joint Life Table results in lower RMDs. RMD rules are complex and change periodically through legislation. This tool provides estimates and should not replace consultation with a tax professional.
- What age must I start taking RMDs?
- Age 73 if born between 1951-1959. Age 75 if born 1960 or later (per SECURE 2.0 Act).
- What is the penalty for missing an RMD?
- 25% of the amount not withdrawn, reduced to 10% if corrected within a two-year window.
- How is my RMD amount calculated?
- Account balance / life expectancy factor from IRS Uniform Lifetime Table. At 73, factor is 26.5.
- Can I delay my first RMD?
- Yes, until April 1 of the year after turning 73. But you must still take a second RMD by Dec 31 that same year.
- Do Roth IRAs have RMDs?
- No RMDs for the original owner. Inherited Roth IRAs are subject to RMD rules. Roth 401k must be rolled to Roth IRA before 73.
- Internal Revenue Service. "Publication 590-B: Distributions from IRAs." irs.gov.
- Internal Revenue Service. "RMD Frequently Asked Questions." irs.gov.
- Investopedia. "RMD: Required Minimum Distribution." investopedia.com.
- Fidelity. "RMD Calculator and Rules." fidelity.com.
Last updated: May 12, 2026