US Required Minimum Distribution (RMD) Calculator for Retirement Accounts
Estimate your annual Required Minimum Distribution (RMD) from qualified retirement accounts using IRS life expectancy guidance. This tool provides illustrative estimates only; consult a tax advisor for filing and tax treatment.
- Page updated:
- Jan 3, 2026
- Tool version:
- v1.1.0
Overview
This RMD calculator estimates the annual Required Minimum Distribution from qualified retirement accounts by dividing the prior-year account balance by a life-expectancy distribution period.
This calculator is for estimation and planning only. It does not provide tax advice. See the disclaimer below and consult a qualified tax professional for filing and compliance.
Results
rmd_result
$3,773.58
distribution_period
26.5
method_note
RMD = account balance / distribution period using the IRS Uniform Lifetime Table (most common case; SECURE 2.0 start age 73). Joint and single-life tables differ and require a beneficiary age. Use official IRS Publication 590-B for exact figures.
How to read the result
- What it means
- The displayed value is an estimate based on your inputs. It represents the calculated scenario under current assumptions, not a guaranteed amount.
- Calculation limits
- The model uses simplified formulas and cannot account for all variables in your specific case (local regulations, personal conditions, temporal changes).
- Next step
- Use the result as a starting point. Adjust parameters to compare scenarios and validate with a professional when needed.
Glossary+−
- Required Minimum Distribution (RMD)
The minimum amount the IRS requires you to withdraw from certain retirement accounts each year after reaching the applicable age.
- Distribution Period (Life Expectancy)
The divisor derived from IRS life-expectancy tables used to calculate the RMD.
- Uniform Lifetime Table
IRS life-expectancy table commonly used by most IRA owners to determine the distribution period.
- Joint Life Last Survivor Table
Life-expectancy table used when the sole beneficiary is a spouse more than 10 years younger than the account owner.
- Prior-Year Account Balance
Account balance as of December 31 of the previous tax year — the balance used to calculate that year's RMD.
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Useful links
Worked examples
Example 1 — Single owner, age 73, Uniform Lifetime Table
Estimate RMD for an account owner age 73 with a prior-year balance of $100,000 using the Uniform Lifetime table.
Interpretation
RMD = 100,000 / 24.7 ≈ $4,048.58. This is an estimate; consult IRS tables for exact divisor.
Example 2 — Joint life (spouse younger), age 80, Joint Life Table
Estimate RMD for an account owner age 80 with a prior-year balance of $250,000 using Joint Life Last Survivor table.
Interpretation
RMD = 250,000 / 21.3 ≈ $11,737.56. Joint life table often yields a longer distribution period and a smaller RMD.
Frequently asked questions
Is this calculator legally binding for tax filing?
No. This calculator provides estimates for planning purposes only. Use official IRS life-expectancy tables and consult a tax professional when preparing tax returns or making distributions.
Which account balance should I use?
Use the account balance as of December 31 of the prior tax year for the account(s) from which the RMD is required. If you have multiple accounts, rules for aggregation depend on account type; consult IRS guidance.
How do I choose the correct life-expectancy table?
Most individual owners use the Uniform Lifetime Table. The Joint Life Last Survivor Table applies if the sole beneficiary is a spouse who is more than 10 years younger. The Single Life Table is used for certain beneficiaries. Review IRS Publication guidance or talk to your advisor to select the correct table.
What if my age is outside the provided table range?
This tool uses fallback rules: interpolate for ages between listed values, use the nearest higher life-expectancy for younger ages, and use the smallest provided divisor for very high ages. For exact legal calculation, use the IRS tables.
Sources & references
- IRS - Required Minimum Distributions (RMDs): https://www.irs.gov/retirement-plans/required-minimum-distributions-rmds
- IRS Publication and Life Expectancy Tables: https://www.irs.gov/retirement-plans/retirement-plans-faqs-regarding-required-minimum-distributions
- Society of Actuaries / Life Table references (illustrative): https://www.soa.org
Quality & oversight
- Author
- Ugo Candido, MBA
- Maintained by
- Ugo Candido, MBA
- Page updated
- Jan 3, 2026
- Tool version
- v1.1.0