The SECURE Act and RMDs: What Changed?

Here’s a breakdown of what changed — and what’s ahead: 

Before the SECURE Act 

• For decades, RMDs began at age 70½. 
• This rule often confused people, since it didn’t line up with a full calendar year. 

SECURE Act of 2019 

• The age to start RMDs was raised from 70½ to 72. 
• This gave retirees an extra year and a half of tax-deferred growth before withdrawals were required. 

SECURE 2.0 Act of 2022 

Beginning in 2023, the RMD age increased again: 

• To 73 for individuals born between 1951 and 1959. 
• To 75 for individuals born in 1960 or later (effective in 2033). 

The law also reduced the penalty for missed RMDs: 

• From 50% down to 25%. 
• If corrected in a timely manner, it can be further reduced to 10%.

What This Means in 2025 

• If you were born in 1952, you turn 73 in 2025 — meaning this is the year your first RMD is due. 
• If you were born in 1960 or later, you won’t need to begin RMDs until age 75, starting in 2033. 
• Everyone between those years follows the age 73 rule. 

Why These Changes Matter 

• The later start date means more years of potential tax-deferred growth for your retirement savings. 
• But it also means larger RMDs later, since your account balance may be higher by the time withdrawals begin. 
• The reduced penalty gives some relief if mistakes happen — though missing an RMD still comes with costly consequences. 

How MidAtlantic IRA Helps 

• We stay current with IRS rules and calculate your RMD each year based on the applicable age requirements. 
• We provide reminders and deadlines so you don’t have to keep track of shifting rules on your own. 

Additional Resources 

• IRS: Required Minimum Distributions (RMDs) 
• Congress.gov: SECURE Act of 2019 Summary 
• Congress.gov: SECURE 2.0 Act of 2022 Summary 

Bottom line: The SECURE Acts raised the RMD starting age from 70½ to 72 to 73 — and eventually to 75. Staying on top of these changes ensures you remain compliant and make the most of your retirement planning.