Have you heard of required minimum distributions (RMDs) but aren’t sure how they impact your retirement plan? In this episode of Coffee with Your Retirement Coach, Nic and I unpack everything you need to know about RMD rules, retirement income planning, and tax-smart strategies to avoid costly mistakes.
We’ll explain what RMDs are, when they start, how they’re calculated, and the tax implications you need to prepare for. Plus, we share real stories of retirees who were blindsided by RMD requirements—and how the right planning can help you reduce taxes, stay in control of your money, and enjoy retirement with confidence. Whether you’re approaching age 73 or just getting started with retirement planning, this episode will help you build a smarter strategy for your future.
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⏰ Episode Timeline
- [1:00] - Why **required minimum distributions** (RMDs) are a critical part of retirement income planning
- [2:20] - Which retirement accounts are subject to RMD rules (and why Roth IRAs are an exception)
- [3:37] - A powerful story: an engineer nearing retirement who had no idea about RMDs
- [5:42] - How RMDs are calculated using your year-end balance and the IRS life expectancy tables
- [7:33] - Flexibility in choosing which retirement account to withdraw from—and key caveats to know
- [9:11] - The truth about how RMDs are taxed as ordinary income, and one costly mistake to avoid
- [11:12] - Why you need an **RMD strategy** before age 73: Roth conversions, charitable giving, and more
- [12:36] - How market growth and IRS rules can push you into higher tax brackets over time
- [14:24] - A client story showing why even some CPAs misunderstand required minimum distributions
- [16:20] - Free resource: our **one-page RMD worksheet** to prepare for conversations with your CPA or advisor
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🔗 Links & Resources
- Request the RMD CPA Worksheet by emailing: [connect@yourretirementcoach.com](mailto:connect@yourretirementcoach.com)
- Learn more at [Yeoman’s Consulting Group](https://yourretirementcoach.com/)
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📬 Questions?
Email: connect@yourretirementcoach.com
Connect with us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100063585099972
🛑 Disclaimer:
Your Retirement Coach is a registered investment adviser. Information presented is for educational purposes only and does not intend to make an offer or solicitation for the sale or purchase of any specific securities, investments, or investment strategies. Investments involve risk and, unless otherwise stated, are not guaranteed. Be sure to first consult with a qualified financial adviser and/or tax professional before implementing any strategy discussed herein. Past performance is not indicative of future performance.