Once you reach a certain age, the IRS requires you to start withdrawing money from most retirement accounts.
When RMDs start
For most people born in 1951 or later, Required Minimum Distributions begin at age 73.
How the amount is calculated
Your RMD is based on your account balance at year-end, divided by an IRS life-expectancy factor.
Roth IRAs are generally exempt from RMDs during the original owner’s lifetime.