The minimum distribution for an IRA is the amount that U.S. tax law requires one to withdraw annually from traditional IRAs and employer-sponsored retirement plans, known as Required Minimum Distributions (RMDs) . Individuals with IRAs are required to begin withdrawing a minimum amount from their IRAs no later than April 1 of the year following the year in which they reach age 72 (or 73 if they reach age 72 after Dec. 31, 2022) . The amount of the RMD is calculated by dividing the value of the Traditional IRA by a life expectancy factor, as determined by the IRS. The distribution period (or life expectancy) decreases each year, so the RMDs will increase accordingly. IRA owners can always withdraw more than the minimum amount from their IRA or plan in any year, but if they withdraw less than the required minimum, they will be subject to a federal penalty. Roth IRAs are not subject to RMDs.