Since you didn't have enough taken out:
- you can request a waiver of the penalty due to the extenuating circumstances on Form 5329.
- Withdraw the amount that was missed and get back on schedule.
- The IRS usually grants the waiver under reasonable cause circumstances.
Follow these steps:
- TY 2025 File form 5329 with your tax return.
- Line 52 will show the RMD you should have taken in 2025.
- Line 53 is the amount you actually took.
- Line 54, reasonable cause
- Line 55 zero for the penalty because you are asking for it to be waived. You relied on a professional you should be able to trust.
- See: Retirement plan and IRA required minimum distributions FAQs states: Q9. Can the penalty for not taking the full RMD be waived? Yes, the penalty may be waived if the account owner establishes that the shortfall in distributions was due to reasonable error and that reasonable steps are being taken to remedy the shortfall. In order to qualify for this relief, you must file Form 5329 and attach a letter of explanation. See the Instructions to Form 5329
- 2026 - now- take the missed distribution immediately
- Withdraw the exact amount you should have taken for TY2025. Do not let them mark this as 2026 RMD. Tell them this is a separate distribution and you need a paper trail.
- When you file your 2026 return, you will get a 1099-R for the distribution and it will be included in your 2026 income.
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