Fidelity RMD Calculator
Enter the balance of your IRA or 401(k) as of December 31 of the previous year.
Enter the age you will reach by December 31 of the current year.
Your Estimated RMD
Understanding the Fidelity RMD Calculator
A Required Minimum Distribution (RMD) is the smallest amount you must withdraw from your tax-deferred retirement accounts each year. This requirement applies once you reach a certain age, as defined by the IRS and the SECURE Act 2.0. This Fidelity RMD calculator helps you estimate your liability based on the Uniform Lifetime Table.
When Must You Start Taking RMDs?
Under current tax law, the age for starting RMDs depends on your birth year:
- If you were born before July 1, 1949: RMD age was 70½.
- If you were born between July 1, 1949, and 1950: RMD age was 72.
- If you were born between 1951 and 1959: RMD age is 73.
- If you were born in 1960 or later: RMD age is 75.
How is the RMD Calculated?
The math behind the calculation is straightforward but requires specific IRS data:
The Distribution Period (or divisor) is a factor representing your life expectancy as determined by the IRS Uniform Lifetime Table (Table III). As you get older, this divisor decreases, which means the percentage of your account you must withdraw increases.
Example Calculation
Suppose you have a Traditional IRA with a balance of $500,000 on December 31st of last year. You are turning 75 this year. According to the 2024 IRS Uniform Lifetime Table, the distribution period for age 75 is 24.6.
$500,000 / 24.6 = $20,325.20
In this scenario, your required withdrawal for the current tax year would be $20,325.20.
Important Exceptions
- Roth IRAs: Original owners are not required to take RMDs. However, beneficiaries of inherited Roth IRAs generally must take distributions.
- Joint Life Table: If your spouse is the sole beneficiary and is more than 10 years younger than you, you use the "Joint Life and Last Survivor Expectancy Table," which usually results in a smaller RMD.
- Inherited Accounts: Rules for inherited IRAs changed significantly with the SECURE Act. Many beneficiaries are now required to empty the account within 10 years rather than taking annual RMDs.
Disclaimer: This calculator is for informational purposes only and does not constitute tax, legal, or investment advice. Always consult with a qualified tax professional or financial advisor before making withdrawal decisions.