Do I have to wait until December 15th to do a Roth Conversion?

Key Takeaways

• You cannot convert an RMD—conversions are only allowed on funds remaining after your full RMD has been taken for the year
• RMDs are treated as the first dollars out of your account, meaning you must take your complete annual RMD before any conversion funds can be withdrawn
• If taking equal monthly RMD distributions, wait until after the final distribution (December 15th) to begin Roth conversions, or risk disqualifying those conversions
• To gain conversion flexibility earlier in the year, switch from monthly distributions to taking your full RMD as a lump sum in January, then you're free to convert anytime after