How to Use RMD Calculator
The RMD Calculator is for U.S. retirees and beneficiaries needing a quick required minimum distribution estimate.
- Enter the Prior Year-End Balance — Use your December 31 balance.
- Enter Your Age — Your age as of the end of the current year (≥ 72).
- (Optional) Override Factor — Enter a Joint Life Table factor if your spouse is the sole beneficiary and over 10 years younger.
- Pick a Currency — Use the currency selector for the matching symbol.
- Read the Result — The RMD Calculator shows the annual RMD and a monthly equivalent.
Formula & Theory - RMD Calculator
The RMD Calculator uses these formulas:
Annual RMD = Prior Year-End Balance ÷ Distribution Factor
Monthly Equivalent = Annual RMD ÷ 12| Symbol | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Prior Year-End Balance | The account balance on December 31 of the previous year |
| Distribution Factor | Life expectancy factor from the Uniform Lifetime Table |
| Annual RMD | Minimum amount required to withdraw this year |
Assumptions and Limits
The RMD Calculator uses the Uniform Lifetime Table. It does not handle multiple accounts (must aggregate balances), inherited IRAs, or beneficiary RMDs. RMDs missed by the deadline may face a 25% excise tax (10% if corrected timely).
Use Cases for RMD Calculator
The RMD Calculator is useful for:
- Retirement planning — Estimate annual mandatory withdrawals.
- Tax planning — Anticipate taxable income from RMDs.
- Withdrawal scheduling — Convert annual RMD to monthly payments.
- Spousal beneficiary scenarios — Plug in a Joint Life Table factor for a younger spouse.
The RMD Calculator runs in your browser so you can compare scenarios privately and without sharing retirement balances.