Retirees, This End of Year Error Could Cost You Big, Says Vanguard Study

Core Insights - The end of the year is approaching, and retirees need to be aware of the requirement to take required minimum distributions (RMDs) from their retirement accounts, as missed RMDs could cost them up to $1.7 billion annually according to Vanguard [1][6] Group 1: RMD Requirements - Investors aged 73 and older must take RMDs from accounts like 401(k)s and traditional IRAs, with exceptions for those still working with a 401(k) through their employer [2] - For retirees aged 74 and older, RMDs must be taken by December 31 each year, while those turning 73 in the current year have until April 1 of the following year to take their first RMD [4][6] Group 2: Impact of Missed RMDs - Vanguard's research indicates that 6.7% of RMD-eligible investors missed their RMDs in 2024, with an average RMD amount of $11,600, leading to potential penalties of $1,160 or $2,900 depending on the penalty rate [2][3] - The estimated number of IRA holders missing their RMDs annually is around 585,000, resulting in total potential tax penalties ranging from $678 million to $1.7 billion each year [3] Group 3: Behavioral Insights - Reducing the rate of missed RMDs, even slightly, could save retirees hundreds of millions of dollars annually, highlighting the importance of awareness and compliance with RMD rules [5]