Retirement can be a time of relaxation and enjoyment, but it also comes with its own set of financial challenges. One of these challenges is Required Minimum Distributions (RMDs), which are the minimum amount that retirees must withdraw from their retirement accounts each year, starting at age 72. Unfortunately, a recent report has found that a staggering 84% of retirees make a mistake when it comes to RMDs. In this article, we will explore what RMDs are, why they are important, and how retirees can avoid common mistakes.

What are RMDs?

RMDs are a requirement set by the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) that mandates that retirees withdraw a minimum amount from their retirement accounts each year. The purpose of RMDs is to ensure that retirees do not keep their money in tax-advantaged retirement accounts indefinitely, but instead use these accounts for their intended purpose: to provide income during retirement.

RMDs apply to most retirement accounts, including Traditional IRAs, SEP IRAs, SIMPLE IRAs, 401(k)s, 403(b)s, and other defined contribution plans. Roth IRAs are exempt from RMDs during the account owner’s lifetime, but beneficiaries of Roth IRAs are subject to RMDs.

Why are RMDs important?

RMDs are important for several reasons. First, they ensure that retirees are using their retirement accounts for their intended purpose: to provide income during retirement. Second, RMDs help the government collect taxes on these accounts. Third, failing to take the full RMD amount can result in a penalty of up to 50% of the amount that was not withdrawn.

Common RMD Mistakes

Despite the importance of RMDs, a recent report found that 84% of retirees make a mistake when it comes to RMDs. The most common mistake is failing to take the full RMD amount. Retirees may not realize that they need to take the full amount, or they may miscalculate the amount they need to withdraw. Failing to take the full RMD can result in a penalty of up to 50% of the amount that was not withdrawn.

Another common mistake is taking the RMD from the wrong account. Retirees with multiple retirement accounts may not realize that they need to take the RMD from each account separately. Taking the RMD from the wrong account can also result in a penalty.

How to Avoid RMD Mistakes

To avoid RMD mistakes, retirees should consult with a financial advisor or tax professional. They can help calculate the RMD amount and ensure that it is taken from the correct account. Retirees should also make sure to take the RMD by the deadline, which is December 31st each year.

Another way to avoid RMD mistakes is to consolidate retirement accounts. By consolidating retirement accounts, retirees can simplify the RMD process and reduce the risk of making a mistake. Consolidating accounts can also make it easier to manage investments and reduce fees.

Retirees should also consider using a Qualified Charitable Distribution (QCD) to satisfy their RMD. A QCD is a direct transfer of funds from an IRA to a qualified charity. The amount of the QCD counts towards the RMD and is not included in the retiree’s taxable income. Using a QCD can help retirees reduce their tax liability and support a charitable cause.

Finally, retirees should review their RMD strategy annually. Changes in tax laws or personal circumstances can impact the RMD amount and the best way to withdraw funds. By reviewing their RMD strategy annually, retirees can ensure that they are taking the full RMD amount and avoiding costly mistakes.

Conclusion

RMDs are an important part of retirement planning, but they can also be confusing and complex. Unfortunately, a recent report found that 84% of retirees make a mistake when it comes to RMDs. The most common mistake is failing to take the full RMD amount, which can result in a penalty of up to 50% of the amount that was not withdrawn. To avoid RMD mistakes, retirees should consult with a financial advisor or tax professional, consolidate retirement accounts, consider using a QCD, and review their RMD strategy annually. By understanding the rules and seeking professional advice, retirees can avoid costly mistakes and ensure that they are taking the full RMD amount each year