Summary: Key Takeaways
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Age matters: RMDs generally begin at age 73 for most people now.
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Account type matters: Traditional IRAs, 401(k)s, 403(b)s, etc., have RMD rules; Roth IRAs do not while you are alive.
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Deadline matters: First RMD by April 1 after you reach required age; subsequent ones by December 31 each year.
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Penalty matters: If you miss or under-withdraw, you may pay 25% (or lower if corrected) of the shortfall.
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Planning matters: Thinking ahead — tax planning, charitable giving, Roth conversion, budgeting — can help you keep more of your money and stay compliant.
If you’re a senior—or approaching that age with retirement savings—it pays to understand RMDs well. Following the rules can save you from unwanted surprises, reduce taxes, and help you make the most of your hard-earned savings. If in doubt, always consult a trusted tax professional or financial advisor to apply these rules to your particular situation.
Read next: The 2026 Social Security Kit: Updates That Could Make or Break Your Retirement
