I am not going to get involved in the Help-No Help debate, everyone on here appears to be an expert. Except I will adjust this thought for all, IRA's do NOT have to be withdrawn before 70. All Qualified(IRA, 401K, 403b, 457b Funds or Annuities) financial assets have a 'cannot withdrawal, W/D, without a 10% penalty prior to 59.5. The year one turns 70.5(could be the next year after 70 depending on birthday) one must start to annually W/D their RMD-Required Minimum Distribution. This calculation is based on age, gender, and total asset qualified base, and is best done by someone who understands it. The IRS will be looking for a piece of your wealth annually via Taxation of RMD's of Qualified(qualified for tax deferral) money. There is however, nothing in any Regulations that forces total withdrawals of any investment vehicle at any age.