What's changing for retirement savers and retirees in 2026

In a move that may impact millions of Americans, the Biden administration recently announced updates to retirement savings policies set to take effect next year. Here's what you need to know.

• RMD Waiver Extended: The Required Minimum Distributions (RMD) waiver will be extended for another year. This means that retirees aged 72 and above won't have to take distributions from their employer-sponsored retirement plans, providing more flexibility in managing their finances.
• Changes to RMD Rules: As part of the SECURE Act 2.0, the age at which individuals must start taking RMDs will be raised to 75 in 2026. This change is expected to impact those who inherited retirement accounts or are approaching retirement age.
• Tax Credits for Retirement Savers: The administration has proposed increasing tax credits for low- and moderate-income workers who contribute to employer-sponsored retirement plans. This may encourage more Americans to start saving for their golden years.

These updates aim to make it easier for retirees to manage their finances and enjoy a comfortable post-work life. While the changes are mostly beneficial, some experts warn that they may also create complexities for individuals with inherited retirement accounts or those approaching RMD age thresholds.

As we look ahead to 2026, one thing is clear: your financial strategy will need to adapt to these shifting policies. Stay informed and plan ahead to make the most of these changes.