It's RMD Time Again.
Imagine opening your retirement statement this year...
And realizing that a simple decision - one most retirees never even think about - could reshape your taxes, your diversification, and even your long-term financial stability.
Every year, Americans over age 73 are forced to withdraw tens of billions of dollars from their retirement accounts. And year after year, most people follow the same path:
Take the RMD in cash and move on.
Not because it's the best choice.
But because no one ever tells them there's another way.
The "Default" RMD Isn't Your Only Option.
Financial institutions make it easy to withdraw cash. Too easy.
But simple isn't always strategic.
Taking your RMD in cash may:
- Increase taxable income
-
Force you to sell assets at moments that may not
align with your plan
- Reduce the overall portion of your wealth that remains invested
And yet...
There's an IRS-Approved Alternative Most Retirees Never Hear About.
Few realize that RMDs can also be taken "in-kind."
Meaning: instead of withdrawing cash, you can receive certain assets directly without liquidating them first.
No, it doesn't eliminate taxes.
But for many savers, it may help them:
- Preserve their long-term allocation
- Avoid being forced to sell during volatile markets
- Strengthen diversification, depending on their strategy
It's fully IRS-allowed... but rarely mentioned in traditional planning conversations.
Before You Take Your Next RMD, Ask Yourself:
- Do I know most IRS-approved ways to satisfy my distribution?
- Am I selling assets when I don't want to - or at prices I don't like?
- Could an in-kind distribution align better with my long-term goals and risk tolerance?
For something you're required by law to take each year, understanding your options isn't optional - it's essential.
To help you make sense of it all...
We've created a clear, simple breakdown of:
- Cash vs. in-kind RMDs
- How each method works
- Questions to ask before choosing
- What to discuss with your advisor
So before you take your next withdrawal, take a moment to get informed.
Your decision today could influence your strategy for years to come.
