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Can Owners of Solo 401(k) Accounts Delay Taking RMDs Past Age 72?

Jeffrey Levine of Buckingham Wealth Partners explains whether owners of solo 401(k) accounts can delay taking required minimum distributions past age 72.

By Jeffrey Levine May 13, 2026

401(k) & Workplace Plans
Jeffrey Levine CPA/PFS, CFP®, ChFC® — Chief Planning Officer, Focus Wealth Partners
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Key Takeaways

  • Solo 401(k) owners must begin taking RMDs at age 72—the 5% owner exception does not apply since you own 100% of your company
  • If you miss your RMD deadline, you face a 50% penalty on the amount not withdrawn
  • You can delay your first RMD until April 1st of the following year, but taking it in the year you turn 72 is often better to avoid doubling up on income and being pushed into a higher tax bracket
  • Delaying your first RMD until April 1st means you'll owe two RMDs in the next calendar year, which can increase Medicare premiums and phase you out of certain deductions

Ask The Hammer: Can Owners of Solo 401(k) Accounts Delay Taking RMDS Past Age 72? Jeffrey Levine of Buckingham Wealth Partners explains whether owners of solo 401(k) accounts can delay taking required minimum distributions past age 72. Watch more episodes of Ask The Hammer at this link: https://www.finstream.tv/videos/ask-the-hammer/

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