RMD at age 73: divide by 26.5

How 73 compares with the years around it

At 72 the figure was 27.4. At 74 it will be 25.5, so the required share rises to about 3.92%. The figure falls every year, which is why the share you must take out keeps growing with age.

Your first RMD

73 is the age required minimum distributions start, for tax years 2023 and later. The first one can wait until April 1 of the following year, but the second is still due by December 31 of that same year, so waiting means two withdrawals in one calendar year.

If your spouse is more than 10 years younger

When your spouse is the sole beneficiary and more than 10 years younger, the IRS uses its joint life table (Table II) instead, and the figure is larger, so the required amount is smaller. At 73:

• Spouse aged 62: divide by 27.2, about 3.68% of the balance.
• Spouse aged 58: divide by 30.1, about 3.32% of the balance.
• Spouse aged 53: divide by 34.2, about 2.92% of the balance.

The rest of the rules

Each year after the first, the distribution is due by December 31. If you have more than one traditional IRA, work out the amount for each one; you can then take the total from any one or more of them. Taking extra one year gives no credit toward the next. A qualified charitable distribution counts toward the amount. See the RMD rules and giving from an IRA.