RMD calculator.
Estimate a required minimum distribution, distribution period, and future retirement account balance schedule.
RMD Calculator inputs
Enter the owner age details, prior year-end account balance, spouse beneficiary status, and optional return assumption.
RMD year and owner
Enter the birth year and RMD year to estimate the required distribution period.
Account balance
Use the retirement account balance as of December 31 of the prior year.
Spouse beneficiary
When a spouse is the sole primary beneficiary and more than 10 years younger, a joint-life table may apply.
Visual breakdown
Live labels, comparison cards, charts, and schedule outputs update as you change the inputs.
Comparison chart
Compares the key values for this calculation.
Schedule graph
Shows the value path over time.
Schedule
Detailed rows for the first periods and final result.
About the RMD Calculator
This calculator estimates the required minimum distribution for a tax-deferred retirement account using the owner’s age, prior year-end balance, spouse beneficiary information, and an optional assumed return for a future balance schedule.
Prior year balance
The RMD calculation starts with the account balance from December 31 of the previous year.
Distribution period
The distribution period is based on age and life expectancy tables. A longer period lowers the required distribution.
Future schedule
The projection assumes you withdraw only the RMD at year end and then apply the estimated annual return to the remaining balance.
How to use this calculator
Enter your birth year, the RMD year, and your prior year-end account balance. If your spouse is the sole primary beneficiary, enter their date of birth to test whether a longer joint-life estimate may apply. Review the current year RMD, distribution period, projected account balance, and future schedule.
Important RMD timing notes
Many retirees must take annual RMDs by December 31. First-year RMD timing can have special rules, and inherited accounts, employer plans, Roth accounts, and still-working exceptions can be more complex.
Related calculators
Retirement Calculator · 401K Calculator · IRA Calculator
⚠ Disclaimer: RMD rules can change and can depend on account type, beneficiary status, inherited account rules, employment status, and IRS guidance. This tool is an educational estimate only and is not tax advice.
RMD Calculator FAQ
Common questions about inputs, assumptions, outputs, schedules, and limitations.
What does the RMD Calculator estimate?
It estimates the required minimum distribution for a retirement account using age, prior year-end balance, and an estimated distribution period.
What balance should I enter?
Use the account balance as of December 31 of the year before the RMD year.
Why does spouse beneficiary status matter?
A spouse who is the sole beneficiary and more than 10 years younger may allow use of a joint-life distribution period, which can lower the annual RMD.
Does the calculator project future RMDs?
Yes. It can project future RMDs and ending balances if you enter an estimated annual return and withdraw only the RMD each year.
Is this a tax filing tool?
No. It is a planning calculator. Consult IRS guidance or a tax professional for account-specific RMD rules.