Calculate your 2026 required minimum distribution from traditional IRA, 401k, or inherited IRA. See the penalty for missing RMDs. Free calculator, no signup.
Starting at age 73 (SECURE 2.0 Act), you must take required minimum distributions (RMDs) from traditional IRAs and 401k plans each year. The penalty for missing an RMD is 25% of the amount not withdrawn (reduced to 10% if corrected within 2 years). This calculator shows your exact 2026 RMD based on your December 31, 2025 account balance and IRS Uniform Lifetime Table.
RMD = Account balance (Dec 31, prior year) ÷ Distribution period (IRS table). Sample periods: Age 73 = 26.5, Age 75 = 24.6, Age 80 = 20.2, Age 85 = 16.0, Age 90 = 12.2. Example: $500,000 IRA at age 75. RMD = $500,000 ÷ 24.6 = $20,325. This becomes ordinary income added to your tax return.
SECURE 2.0 (December 2022) pushed the RMD starting age from 72 to 73 starting in 2023, and to 75 starting in 2033. Roth 401k accounts no longer require RMDs starting in 2024. Reduced the missed-distribution penalty from 50% to 25% (10% if self-corrected). QLAC limit increased to $200,000 to defer RMDs on that portion.
Most non-spouse beneficiaries who inherited IRAs after 2019 must empty the account within 10 years (no annual RMDs required in years 1-9, full balance out by year 10). Exceptions: surviving spouses, minor children of the original owner (until age 21), disabled beneficiaries. Surviving spouses can roll the inherited IRA into their own IRA, deferring RMDs to their own age 73 start date.
In 2026, the RMD starting age is 73 (if born 1951-1959) or 75 (if born 1960 or later, effective 2033). Your first RMD is due by April 1 of the year following the year you turn 73 — then by December 31 each year after. Taking two RMDs in your first year can spike your tax bracket.
The penalty is 25% of the RMD amount not withdrawn — reduced to 10% if corrected within 2 years. File IRS Form 5329 to report the missed RMD and request a penalty waiver for 'reasonable cause' — the IRS often waives first-time failures.
Yes — the RMD is a minimum, not a maximum. Some retirees strategically take extra withdrawals in low-income years to fill up lower tax brackets, reducing future RMDs and avoiding higher brackets or IRMAA (Medicare premium surcharge) later.
No — Roth IRAs have no RMD requirement during the original owner's lifetime. This makes Roth IRAs powerful estate planning tools. Roth 401k plans no longer require RMDs starting in 2024 (SECURE 2.0 change).
Yes — a Qualified Charitable Distribution (QCD) lets those 70½ or older donate up to $105,000 directly from an IRA to a qualified charity. The QCD satisfies your RMD and is excluded from taxable income. QCDs are especially valuable if you take the standard deduction.
Yes — every FreeFixo tool, including the IRA Required Minimum Distribution (RMD) Calculator 2026, is 100% free with no paywall, no premium tier, and no usage limits. You do not need to create an account, enter a credit card, or share an email.