RMD Calculator
Calculate your IRS Required Minimum Distribution (RMD) from a Traditional IRA or 401(k) after age 73. Failing to take an RMD triggers a 25% penalty on the shortfall.
How to use the RMD Calculator
- Enter your inputs into the RMD Calculator above.
- Results update instantly as you type — no submit button needed.
- Adjust any value to see how the result changes in real time.
The RMD calculation
RMD = Account balance (Dec 31 prior year) / IRS life expectancy factor
The IRS publishes the Uniform Lifetime Table with life expectancy factors by age. For example, age 73 = 26.5, age 80 = 20.2, age 90 = 12.2. Divide your prior year-end balance by the factor for your current age.
Worked example
At age 75 with a $500,000 IRA balance on Dec 31 of the prior year, the life expectancy factor is 24.6: RMD = 500,000 / 24.6 ≈ $20,325 that must be withdrawn during the current year.
Frequently asked questions
What is the penalty for missing an RMD?
The IRS charges 25% of the shortfall (reduced to 10% if corrected within 2 years). Significant penalty — set up automatic distributions to avoid it.
Do Roth IRAs have RMDs?
Original-owner Roth IRAs have no RMDs under current law (SECURE 2.0 eliminated Roth 401(k) RMDs starting 2024). Inherited Roth IRAs do have distribution requirements.
Can I delay my first RMD?
Yes — your first RMD can be delayed to April 1 of the year following the year you turn 73. But you'd still need to take the next year's RMD by Dec 31 of that same year, doubling up.