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Required Minimum Distributions (RMDs)

Find out when you'll need to take RMDs from your retirement accounts.

By Lyle DalyUpdated Feb 12, 2026 at 7:13 PM EST | Fact-checked by Parker Hicks

Key Points

  • First RMD must be taken by April 1 after turning 73, future RMDs due by Dec. 31 yearly.
  • RMDs are calculated by dividing year-end account balance by IRS life expectancy factor.
  • Missing an RMD deadline incurs a penalty up to 25%, impacting retirement savings.

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