How this calculator works
Required minimum distributions (RMDs) are annual withdrawals the IRS requires from most tax-deferred retirement accounts once you reach the required beginning age—73 for many account owners under current rules. The general formula divides your prior-year-end account balance by an IRS life expectancy factor (distribution period) based on your age.
RMD ≈ account balance ÷ distribution period
This calculator uses simplified Uniform Lifetime Table factors for ages 73 through 90, with extended factors for older ages. Enter your account balance (typically as of December 31 of the prior year) and your age for the distribution year. The result shows the estimated required minimum distribution and the distribution period used in the calculation.
RMDs exist because traditional IRAs, 401(k)s, and similar accounts defer income tax on contributions and growth. Mandatory withdrawals begin the process of taxing those balances. Roth IRAs generally have no lifetime RMDs for the original account owner, though inherited Roth accounts may have different rules.
This tool estimates one account at a time. Aggregation rules, spouse age differences, still-working exceptions, and inherited IRA tables are not modeled. Confirm your specific obligation with your custodian or a tax professional.
What affects the result
Two inputs determine the estimate:
- Account balance. A larger balance produces a larger RMD because the same distribution period divides a bigger number. Use the prior-year-end balance—the standard measurement date for most RMD calculations.
- Age. Older ages use shorter distribution periods, which increase the RMD as a percentage of balance. At 73, the period is 26.5 years; at 80, it is 20.2 years.
The distribution period falls as age rises, so RMDs tend to represent a larger share of the remaining balance each year even if the balance stays flat. Investment returns, withdrawals above the minimum, and new contributions (where allowed) change future balances and therefore future RMDs—this calculator does not project those paths.
Taxes on the withdrawal depend on account type and your overall income. Traditional account RMDs are generally taxable as ordinary income. This calculator shows how much you must distribute, not how much tax you owe.
Real-world examples
Traditional IRA at 73. You had $500,000 in a traditional IRA on December 31 last year and turn 73 this year. With a distribution period of 26.5, the estimated RMD is about $500,000 ÷ 26.5 ≈ $18,868. That is the floor—you may withdraw more.
401(k) separate from IRA. You hold $200,000 in a former employer 401(k) and $300,000 in IRAs. RMDs are calculated per account type with specific aggregation rules for IRAs. Calculate each balance separately; 401(k) RMDs usually must come from that plan unless rolled over.
Multiple IRAs, one withdrawal. IRA RMDs can often be totaled and taken from one IRA, but each account's RMD must still be computed. Run the calculator twice with each balance to verify the combined minimum before deciding which account to draw from.
Working past RMD age. Some employer plans delay RMDs from the current employer's plan if you are still working and not a 5% owner—rules vary. This calculator does not apply workplace exceptions; enter balances subject to RMD rules only.
Planning cash flow with other income. Your RMD might be $25,000 while Social Security and a pension cover base expenses. Read safe retirement withdrawals for how mandatory distributions interact with discretionary spending and portfolio longevity. The retirement withdrawal calculator models ongoing portfolio draws with inflation adjustments.
Roth vs. traditional planning. Traditional account RMDs increase taxable income; Roth balances may not require owner RMDs. Compare long-term tax treatment with the Roth vs. traditional IRA calculator and Roth vs. traditional IRA guide.
Common mistakes
Using the current balance mid-year instead of prior December 31. RMDs generally reference the prior-year-end balance, not today's market value.
Forgetting RMDs on all deferred accounts. Each traditional IRA, old 401(k), SEP, and SIMPLE IRA may have its own requirement. Missing an account triggers penalties on the shortfall.
Assuming the Roth IRA has the same RMD rules. Original Roth IRA owners typically face no lifetime RMDs, but inherited accounts and employer Roth 401(k)s may differ.
Ignoring that RMDs rise over time even if markets fall. A lower balance reduces the dollar RMD, but the distribution period also shrinks each year—percentage-of-balance withdrawals often trend upward over retirement.
Confusing RMDs with safe spending rates. An RMD at 73 might be under 4% of balance; later RMDs can exceed 4%. Safe withdrawal research and IRS minimums answer different questions.
Not coordinating withholding. RMDs increase taxable income; adjust withholding or estimated taxes to avoid a surprise bill. The paycheck calculator helps with take-home pay estimates but does not replace tax planning.
When to use this calculator
Use this calculator when you need a quick estimate of this year's RMD from a single tax-deferred balance and age. It helps with cash-flow planning, comparing RMDs across ages, and understanding how the IRS distribution period changes over time.
Switch to the retirement projection calculator for long-term balance growth with contributions. Use the retirement withdrawal calculator to model discretionary spending and portfolio longevity. Use the 401(k) contribution calculator while still accumulating assets.
Consult your plan administrator, custodian, or tax advisor for exact RMD amounts, deadlines (often December 31, with a possible first-year extension), inherited account rules, and penalty relief. IRS tables and legislation change; this calculator is an educational estimate.
Related calculators
- Retirement withdrawal calculator — Project inflation-adjusted portfolio withdrawals and ending balance.
- Retirement projection calculator — Model long-term growth with contributions and returns.
- 401(k) contribution calculator — Estimate growth from employee deferrals and employer match.
- Roth vs. traditional IRA calculator — Compare after-tax value of Roth and traditional accounts.
- FIRE calculator — Estimate financial independence targets and timelines.
FAQ
What is a required minimum distribution (RMD)?
An RMD is the minimum amount you must withdraw each year from most tax-deferred retirement accounts once you reach the required beginning age, currently 73 for many account owners.
How is RMD calculated?
Generally, divide the prior-year-end account balance by an IRS life expectancy factor (distribution period) based on your age. This calculator uses simplified Uniform Lifetime Table factors.
Which accounts have RMDs?
Traditional IRAs, SEP and SIMPLE IRAs, and most 401(k), 403(b), and 457(b) plans typically require RMDs. Roth IRAs generally have no lifetime RMDs for the original owner.
What balance should I enter?
Use the account balance as of December 31 of the prior year—the standard basis for calculating the current year's RMD on traditional tax-deferred accounts.
What happens if I miss an RMD?
Missing an RMD can trigger a significant IRS penalty on the shortfall amount. Rules and penalty relief can change; confirm current requirements with a tax professional.
Does this include multiple accounts?
No. Enter one balance at a time. IRA RMDs can often be aggregated and taken from one IRA, but 401(k) RMDs are usually calculated and taken separately per plan.
Can I withdraw more than the RMD?
Yes. The RMD is a minimum. You may withdraw more, which increases taxable income in that year on tax-deferred accounts.
Does this model taxes on the withdrawal?
No. It estimates the distribution amount only. Tax owed depends on your total income, deductions, and account type. See the paycheck calculator or a tax advisor for withholding estimates.