Taking your required minimum distribution (RMD)

If you'll soon need to take an RMD from your IRA or small business retirement account, and you have questions, you've come to the right place!

This video and the resources available on this page, provide answers to the most common RMD questions that we receive at Vanguard.

I'll be specifically talking about traditional IRAs and small-business retirement accounts, such as SEP-IRAs, SIMPLE IRAs, and i401(k) accounts.

If you need information about an employer retirement plan, use the link to RMD rules for employer retirement plans, which you can find under Related Items.

Roth IRAs are exempt from RMDs. For more information about inherited IRAs, select the link to RMD rules for inherited IRAs, in the Related Items.

So, just when are you required to take your RMD?

In most cases, you'll need to take your first RMD by April 1st, of the year following the year you reach age 73.

Once you have your first RMD under your belt, the annual deadline will be the last day of each calendar year.

But remember, if you miss these deadlines, you may have to pay a tax penalty.

If you'd just as soon not have to deal with the logistics of taking an RMD every year, our free RMD service might be exactly what you're looking for.

Once you've signed up for the service, Vanguard will distribute your RMD on time, year after year, according to the instructions you provide when you enroll.

You can read more about the service and enroll, using the Sign up for RMD service link.

Important information

All investing is subject to risk, including the possible loss of the money you invest.

You may wish to consult a tax advisor about your situation.