📋 Required Minimum Distribution (RMD) Calculator
Calculate your Required Minimum Distribution for 2026 using the IRS Uniform Lifetime Table. Estimate your RMD, see the life expectancy factor, and get a 10-year projection. Avoid the 25% IRS penalty for missed RMDs.
What Is a Required Minimum Distribution (RMD)?
A Required Minimum Distribution (RMD) is the minimum amount you must withdraw from your tax-deferred retirement accounts each year once you reach a certain age. The IRS requires these distributions to ensure that retirement savings are eventually taxed.
RMDs apply to traditional IRAs, 401(k)s, 403(b)s, 457(b)s, SEP IRAs, SIMPLE IRAs, and other tax-deferred retirement accounts.
How Does the RMD Calculator Work?
This calculator uses the official IRS formula:
RMD = Account Balance (Dec 31 of prior year) ÷ Life Expectancy Factor
The life expectancy factor comes from the IRS Uniform Lifetime Table (Table III).
The calculator:
- Determines your RMD start age , 73 for those born 1951–1959, 75 for born 1960+ (SECURE 2.0 Act).
- Looks up your life expectancy factor from the IRS Uniform Lifetime Table based on your age in 2026.
- Calculates your annual RMD , the minimum amount you must withdraw.
- Projects 10 years of RMDs , showing how your required withdrawals change as you age.
- Estimates the tax impact , using your estimated tax rate (optional).
- Shows the penalty for missed RMDs , 25% excise tax (reduced from 50% by SECURE 2.0).
Why Use This RMD Calculator?
- Instant Results: Get your RMD amount, life expectancy factor, and percentage in seconds.
- IRS-Approved Tables: Uses the official 2022 Uniform Lifetime Table (updated factors).
- 10-Year Projection: See how your RMDs will change over the next decade.
- Penalty Awareness: Understand the 25% penalty for missed RMDs.
- Tax Impact: Estimate the tax you'll owe on your RMD (optional).
- Free & Private: No registration, no data storage , all calculations are done in your browser.
❓ RMD Calculator FAQ
When do I have to start taking RMDs?
Under the SECURE 2.0 Act, RMDs must start at age 73 if you were born between 1951 and 1959, or age 75 if you were born in 1960 or later.
What is the deadline for taking my RMD?
You must take your RMD by December 31 each year. For your first RMD, you have until April 1 of the year after you turn RMD age. However, delaying your first RMD means you'll have to take two RMDs in that year, which could push you into a higher tax bracket.
What happens if I miss my RMD?
If you fail to take your full RMD, you'll owe a 25% excise tax on the shortfall. If you correct the error within 2 years, the penalty drops to 10%.
Which accounts are subject to RMDs?
Traditional IRAs, SEP IRAs, SIMPLE IRAs, 401(k)s, 403(b)s, 457(b)s, and other tax-deferred retirement accounts are subject to RMDs. Roth IRAs do not have RMDs during the owner's lifetime.
What is the Uniform Lifetime Table?
The Uniform Lifetime Table (Table III) is the most commonly used IRS life expectancy table for calculating RMDs. It assumes a beneficiary exactly 10 years younger than the account owner. The IRS updated these factors in 2022, resulting in slightly lower RMDs.
How is the RMD calculated?
The formula is: RMD = Account Balance (Dec 31 of prior year) ÷ Life Expectancy Factor. For example, if you have $500,000 and your factor is 24.6, your RMD is $20,325.
Can I withdraw more than my RMD?
Yes, you can always withdraw more than the required amount in any given year. However, withdrawals are generally taxable income.
What is a Qualified Charitable Distribution (QCD)?
A Qualified Charitable Distribution (QCD) allows you to donate up to $105,000 (2026 limit) directly from your IRA to a qualified charity. The distribution counts toward your RMD and is not included in your taxable income.
Does the "still working" exception apply to me?
If you're still working and participating in your current employer's 401(k) plan, you may be able to delay RMDs from that specific plan until you retire. This exception does not apply to IRAs or plans from former employers.
How accurate is this calculator?
This calculator provides accurate estimates based on the official IRS Uniform Lifetime Table and current RMD rules. However, actual RMDs may vary based on your specific circumstances, multiple accounts, and other factors. Always consult a tax professional for personalized advice.