RMDs Affecting Social Security Taxes in 2026 Explained

Beginning in 2026, individuals aged 73 must take required minimum distributions (RMDs) from tax-deferred retirement accounts, which can impact taxes and Social Security benefits. For instance, an individual with a $100,000 IRA balance at age 73 may have an RMD of approximately $3,774. These distributions count towards adjusted gross income (AGI), potentially increasing federal taxes on Social Security benefits. The thresholds for taxability are $25,000 for singles and $32,000 for married couples, with up to 85% of benefits taxable above specified income levels.