RMD Monthly or Annually?
If you’re age 73 or older and subject to Required Minimum Distributions (RMDs), you may be wondering whether it’s better to take your withdrawals monthly or in one annual lump sum. While the IRS only requires that you take the full RMD amount by December 31 each year, the timing of how you take those withdrawals is up to you—and it can affect your taxes, cash flow, and investment strategy.
Monthly RMD Withdrawals: Pros and Cons
Monthly distributions divide your annual RMD into 12 equal payments. This can help create a consistent income stream, similar to a paycheck or pension, which is particularly helpful for retirees managing regular expenses.
Benefits of monthly withdrawals:
- Smoother cash flow for budgeting household expenses
- May help you stay in a lower tax bracket by spreading income throughout the year
- Can reduce the risk of unexpected Medicare premium surcharges (IRMAA) or Social Security taxation
Drawbacks:
- Your money leaves the account earlier, potentially limiting investment growth
- More frequent transactions may lead to higher administrative fees in some accounts
Annual RMD Withdrawals: Pros and Cons
Annual RMDs are typically taken at the end or beginning of the year in one lump sum.
Benefits of annual withdrawals:
- Keeps funds invested longer, which may lead to greater compounding returns
- Simplifies recordkeeping with just one distribution per year
- Offers more timing flexibility, especially if you want to coordinate with other tax strategies
Drawbacks:
- A large lump-sum withdrawal could bump you into a higher tax bracket
- May impact Medicare premiums or trigger higher taxation on Social Security benefits
- Can require more discipline in budgeting throughout the year
Which Is Better?
There’s no one-size-fits-all answer. The best approach depends on your income needs, tax situation, healthcare costs, and investment goals. Some retirees even opt for a hybrid approach, taking partial distributions quarterly or semiannually.
If you are not sure, Dimov Tax is ready to offer expert assistance with RMDs. Contact us today for financial clarity and full compliance.