Do Early Withdrawals From a 401(k) Count Toward My RMDs Before Age 73?

Withdrawals from a 401(k) do not directly affect future Required Minimum Distributions (RMDs), but reducing the account balance indirectly lowers future RMD amounts. Strategies to manage RMDs include transferring funds to a Roth IRA, purchasing a Qualified Lifetime Annuity Contract (QLAC), or delaying RMDs by continuing to work at the sponsoring employer. Consulting a financial advisor is recommended to tailor a retirement income strategy that considers individual tax implications and future income needs.