ADFP Practice Test – Comprehensive Exam Prep 2026

The correct age to delay the first distribution from retirement plans is 72. This aligns with the provisions set by legislation that governs retirement accounts, notably the Setting Every Community Up for Retirement Enhancement (SECURE) Act, which increased the required minimum distribution (RMD) age from 70½ to 72 for individuals who reach that age after December 31, 2019.

By reaching age 72, individuals are given the option to postpone the initiation of withdrawals from their retirement accounts, allowing their investments to continue growing tax-deferred for a longer period. This change aims to enhance retirement security by allowing individuals more time to accumulate savings before mandatory distributions begin.

Though other ages mentioned may have historical relevance, particularly age 70, as it was the previous threshold prior to the SECURE Act’s implementation, the current legislation firmly establishes age 72 as the cutoff for delaying distributions. This adjustment reflects the evolving needs of retirees and encourages longer investment periods before accessing retirement funds.