RMD Basics for 2026: What California Retirees Should Know
- Wealthlynk Inc.
- Feb 25
- 2 min read
Updated: Feb 26
By Scott Weber, CEO/Senior Wealth Advisor
Published: February 26, 2026 • Last reviewed: February 26, 2026
Required Minimum Distributions aren’t meant to be mysterious. With a little planning, you can meet the rules, avoid penalties, and fit withdrawals into a thoughtful income plan.
Who has to take an RMD in 2026
Most retirees begin RMDs in the calendar year they turn age 73.
You can delay your first RMD until April 1 of the following year; if you do, you’ll take two RMDs that year (one by April 1 and one by December 31).
If you’re still working and don’t own more than 5% of your employer, you may be able to delay RMDs from that employer’s plan.
Which accounts are affected
Subject to RMDs: Traditional IRAs, SEP/SIMPLE IRAs, and most pre‑tax 401(k)/403(b)/457(b) plans.
Not subject for the original owner: Roth IRAs; lifetime RMDs from Roth 401(k)/403(b) were eliminated beginning in 2024.
Inherited accounts follow different timelines; confirm the original owner’s status and your beneficiary category.
How the calculation works
Your RMD equals your 12/31/2025 balance divided by the appropriate IRS life‑expectancy factor.
Spouses more than 10 years younger who are sole beneficiaries can use the Joint Life table, which may reduce the amount.
IRAs can be aggregated for payout; most employer plans cannot.
Timelines and practical tips
Set withholding on IRA RMDs to cover part or all of your tax bill.
If you’re charitably inclined and age 70½+, consider a Qualified Charitable Distribution (QCD) from an IRA. QCDs can count toward your RMD and may keep federal taxable income lower.
California generally taxes RMDs as ordinary income; confirm state‑level treatment with your CPA.
A simple starting workflow
Confirm whether you owe an RMD for 2026.
Gather 12/31/2025 statements.
Calculate the amount and choose which account(s) to use.
Consider QCDs, set withholding, and schedule distributions to avoid last‑minute issues.
Keep this educational: RMD amounts and strategies depend on your broader tax picture. We’ll run the numbers with your CPA so the withdrawal fits your plan.
How Wealthlynk Inc. can help
We calculate your RMDs, coordinate QCDs when appropriate, set up withholding, and fold everything into your retirement cash‑flow plan. As an independent fiduciary, we custody assets with Altruist, which makes scheduling and documenting distributions straightforward.
Disclosures
As of February 26, 2026. This material is for educational purposes only and is not tax, legal, or investment advice. Consult your tax professional and attorney about your specific situation. Investing involves risk, including possible loss of principal. Wealthlynk Inc. is an investment adviser registered in California; services are offered only to residents of states where we are appropriately registered or exempt from registration. Brokerage and custody services are provided by Altruist Financial LLC, Member FINRA/SIPC. Wealthlynk Inc. is independently owned and not affiliated with Altruist. See our Form CRS and Form ADV for more information.
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