Inherited IRAs have their own withdrawal rules. Estimate the required amount.
Estimates the annual required minimum distribution from an inherited IRA using the single life expectancy method.
A beneficiary who takes annual distributions divides the prior year-end balance by a single life expectancy factor tied to age, which produces the required amount. The factor decreases each year, so required distributions generally rise over time relative to the remaining balance. This tool applies that basic division to give a rough annual figure.
Under the SECURE Act, most non-spouse beneficiaries who inherited after 2019 must empty the account within 10 years rather than stretching distributions over a lifetime. Some of these beneficiaries also owe annual distributions during that window, depending on whether the original owner had begun taking RMDs. Rules differ for spouses, minor children, and certain other eligible designated beneficiaries, so treat this as a starting estimate only.
Not always, since some beneficiaries must take yearly distributions and still empty the account by year 10. Whether annual amounts are required depends on the original owner's RMD status.
Yes, a surviving spouse often has extra options, such as treating the IRA as their own, which can change the timing and amount. Those options are outside this simplified estimate.
No, it is a planning estimate that does not cover every beneficiary category or rule. Confirm your required amount with a tax professional or custodian.
See the exact formula and a worked example on our methodology page.