In 2026, Required Minimum Distributions (RMDs) must begin at age 73. Your RMD equals your retirement-account balance on December 31 of the prior year divided by the IRS Uniform Lifetime Table factor for your age — 26.5 at age 73. So a $500,000 IRA gives a first RMD of about $18,868. Roth IRAs are exempt during the owner's lifetime.
Which accounts have RMDs?
- Yes: Traditional IRA, SEP and SIMPLE IRAs, 401(k), 403(b), 457(b), and most employer plans.
- No (owner's lifetime): Roth IRA. As of 2024, Roth 401(k)s also no longer require lifetime RMDs.
How the calculation works
RMD = prior-year-end balance ÷ life-expectancy factor. The factor comes from the IRS Uniform Lifetime Table:
- Age 73 → 26.5 → $500,000 ÷ 26.5 = $18,868
- Age 75 → 24.6 → $500,000 ÷ 24.6 = $20,325
- Age 80 → 20.2 → $500,000 ÷ 20.2 = $24,752
The factor shrinks with age, so RMDs grow over time. Get your exact figure with the RMD calculator.
Key deadlines
- First RMD: can be delayed until April 1 of the year after you turn 73.
- All later RMDs: due by December 31 each year.
- Delaying the first one means taking two RMDs in the same year — which can push you into a higher bracket.
The penalty for missing an RMD
SECURE 2.0 cut the old 50% penalty to 25% of the shortfall — and to 10% if you correct it promptly (generally within two years) by taking the missed amount and filing Form 5329. Don't ignore an RMD; the fix is straightforward if done quickly.
Tax planning around RMDs
- RMDs are taxed as ordinary income — model the impact with our income tax estimator.
- Qualified Charitable Distributions (QCDs) let those 70½+ send up to a set limit directly to charity, satisfying the RMD tax-free.
- Consider Roth conversions before 73 to shrink future RMDs — compare with our Roth IRA calculator and Roth vs Traditional guide.
Frequently asked questions
- At what age do RMDs start? 73 in 2026 (rising to 75 in 2033).
- How is an RMD calculated? Prior-year-end balance ÷ Uniform Lifetime Table factor (26.5 at 73).
- What's the penalty? 25% of the shortfall, or 10% if promptly corrected.
General information, not tax advice. Confirm details with the IRS or a tax professional.