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Frequently Asked Tax Questions

Individual Retirement Arrangements (IRAs) - Required Minimum Distributions

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Rev. date: 12/18/2012

How do I calculate the minimum amount that must be withdrawn from my IRA after age 70 1/2?

Additional Taxes on Qualified Plans (including IRAs) and Other Tax-Favored Accounts   Distribution   Distributions From Pensions, Annuities, Retirement or Profit-Sharing Plans, IRAs, Insurance Contracts, etc. (Info Copy Only)   Individual Retirement Account   Individual Retirement Arrangement   Traditional IRA

Chapter 1 of Publication 590, Individual Retirement Arrangements (IRAs), gives a complete explanation of how to calculate this amount.

Generally,

• The minimum distribution for each year is computed by dividing the IRA account balance at the close of business December 31 of the preceding year by the life expectancy.
• The life expectancy is determined by using one of three tables found in Publication 590:
  
  • Table I is used by a designated beneficiary who, after the death of the IRA owner, is the sole beneficiary.
  • Table II is generally for use by an IRA owner whose spouse is more than 10 years younger and is the sole designated beneficiary.
  • Table III is generally for use by an unmarried IRA owner, an IRA owner whose spouse is the sole designated beneficiary and not more than 10 years younger, and an IRA owner whose spouse is not the sole beneficiary.

Additional Information

Publication 560, Retirement Plans for Small Business

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