RMD calculator (required minimum distribution)

RMD calculator (required minimum distribution): what it is for

Enter last year's December 31 balance, your birth year or age and an expected annual return. The calculator finds the distribution period in the IRS Uniform Lifetime Table, divides the balance and shows this year's RMD, the starting age under SECURE 2.0 and a projection of the RMD and balance for the next ten years.

The table applies to most account owners: unmarried owners, and married owners whose spouse is not more than 10 years younger or not the sole beneficiary. Missing an RMD can cost an excise tax of 25% of the amount not taken, reduced to 10% if corrected in time.

How to use

1. Enter the December 31 balance.
2. Enter your birth year.
3. Read the RMD and the projection.

When to use it

• Traditional IRA withdrawals.
• 401(k) and 403(b) in retirement.
• Planning taxes in retirement.

Frequently asked questions

How is the RMD calculated?

Divide the account balance on December 31 of the previous year by the distribution period for your age in the IRS Uniform Lifetime Table (Publication 590-B, Table III). At 75, the period is 24.6, so a $500,000 balance requires $20,325.20.

At what age do RMDs start?

Under SECURE 2.0, RMDs start at 73 for people born from 1951 to 1959 and at 75 for people born in 1960 or later. The first RMD can be delayed to April 1 of the following year, but then you take two RMDs that year.

When can't I use the Uniform Lifetime Table?

If your spouse is the sole beneficiary and more than 10 years younger than you, use the Joint Life and Last Survivor Expectancy Table, which gives a smaller RMD. Inherited accounts follow different rules. Roth IRAs have no RMDs for the original owner.

Is it really free?

Yes, 100% free. No sign-up, no subscription and no usage limits. All Tools123 tools are free and run right in your browser.

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