Required Beginning Date

Retirement

Required Beginning Date (RBD) is when Required Minimum Distributions (RMDs) must start. Current rule (SECURE Act 2.0): April 1 of the year following the year you turn 73. The age rises to 75 by 2033. Roth IRAs have no RBD during the owner's lifetime. Inherited retirement accounts have separate, often shorter timelines under the 10-year rule (post-SECURE Act). Missing your first RMD by deferring until April 1 means taking two RMDs in one year — typically not tax-optimal. Most retirees take the first RMD in the year they turn 73 to spread the tax bill.