RMD Calculator – Estimate Required Minimum Distributions
Estimate your required minimum distribution from a retirement account.
About the RMD Calculator
What is the RMD Calculator?
An RMD calculator estimates the minimum amount you must withdraw each year from a tax-deferred retirement account once you reach the required age.
Why use this calculator?
The IRS requires annual distributions from traditional IRAs and most workplace plans after age 73. Missing an RMD triggers a steep penalty, so knowing the amount in advance is important.
How to use it
- Enter your account balance at the start of the year.
- Enter your age for the distribution year.
- The RMD and remaining balance are shown instantly.
Formula
RMD = prior year-end balance ÷ life expectancy factor
Uses the Uniform Lifetime Table. Roth IRAs have no RMDs for the owner. Consult your plan administrator.
Frequently Asked Questions
When do RMDs start?
Generally the year you turn 73. You may delay the first one to April 1 of the following year, but doing so means taking two distributions that year.
What is the penalty for missing an RMD?
The IRS charges an excise tax on the shortfall, historically 50% and reduced in recent years. Correct the mistake promptly to minimize it.
What is the difference between marginal and effective tax rate?
Your marginal rate applies to your last dollar of income. Your effective rate is the average rate you pay across all income, which is always lower.
What is a tax deduction versus a credit?
A deduction reduces taxable income, so it saves you your marginal rate on that amount. A credit reduces your tax bill directly, dollar for dollar.
What is taxable income?
It is your gross income minus adjustments and deductions that the tax code allows, such as the standard deduction or retirement contributions.
Do these results reflect my exact jurisdiction?
No. Tax rules differ widely by country, state and year. Use these numbers as an approximation and confirm with official tables or a tax professional.
Is this calculator free to use?
Yes. Every calculator on this site is completely free, with no hidden fees, no subscriptions and no limits on how many times you can use it.
How accurate are the results?
We use standard, widely accepted formulas and calculate in your browser using double-precision arithmetic. Results are rounded for readability, so treat them as reliable estimates rather than a guarantee. Real-world factors can vary the true figure.
Can I add this calculator to my own website?
Yes. Open this calculator page and use the "Add to your website" box in the sidebar to copy a ready-made iframe snippet, then paste it into any HTML page.
Does it work on a phone or tablet?
Yes. The layout is fully responsive, so it works on desktops, laptops, tablets and mobile phones, and every input adapts to touch screens.