As a Florida snowbird, you’re already making a savvy lifestyle choice—escaping the cold while enjoying the sunshine and tax-friendly perks of the Sunshine State. But what if you could also turn that decision into a powerful tax planning opportunity in 2025?
If you’re 73 or older this year, you’re likely facing Required Minimum Distributions (RMDs). For dual-state retirees—especially those splitting time between Florida and high-tax northern states—how, when, and where you manage those RMDs could mean the difference between a smooth financial year or a tax-time headache.
This comprehensive 2025 RMD & state-tax strategy checklist is tailor-made for Florida snowbirds like you.
Why 2025 Is a Crucial Year for RMD Planning
The SECURE Act 2.0 now mandates that anyone turning 73 in 2025 must begin RMDs. That means:
- If you were born in 1952, your RMDs begin this year.
- Miss a required withdrawal? The IRS penalty is 25% of the amount you should have withdrawn—unless corrected in time.
Now, factor in dual-state tax rules, and the complexity multiplies. But here’s the good news: Florida has zero state income tax, which creates major planning advantages—if you meet the requirements.
Florida Residency Basics: The 183-Day Rule
Before diving into your RMD, you need to determine your state of legal domicile. Just owning a home in Florida won’t cut it.
Here’s what to do to qualify for Florida residency (and avoid taxes in your northern state):
| Requirement | Notes |
| Spend 183+ days in Florida per calendar year | That’s over 6 months |
| Register your car & driver’s license in FL | Update your insurance too |
| Declare FL as primary residence on IRS Form 8822 | Important for federal alignment |
| File a Declaration of Domicile | Do this with the FL county clerk |
| Use FL address for tax returns, bank accounts, bills | Creates a paper trail of residency |
| Register to vote in Florida | Another key sign of intent |
💡Tip: Keep a detailed travel log or GPS receipts. Some states aggressively audit snowbirds who claim FL residency but still maintain strong ties to high-tax states like New York or Massachusetts.
Florida RMD Strategies for Snowbirds in 2025
1. Take Your RMD While in Florida
Timing matters. Taking your RMD while physically present in Florida—and having it sent to your Florida bank account—can serve as strong evidence of Florida residency.
Why it matters: Some high-tax states try to claim RMD income sourced to their jurisdiction. Timing withdrawals when you’re in FL helps avoid this.
2. Use Qualified Charitable Distributions (QCDs)
A QCD lets you donate up to $100,000 directly from your IRA to a qualified charity, satisfying your RMD without triggering federal income tax.
Florida Bonus: No state income tax means your QCDs go even further—100% tax-efficient giving.
3. Consolidate Retirement Accounts
Simplify your RMD management by rolling multiple IRAs into one. This avoids tracking multiple RMD deadlines and allows better investment alignment.
Snowbird Strategy: If you split time across states, a single point of RMD distribution tied to your Florida-based institution strengthens your domicile case.
4. Defer RMDs With Qualified Longevity Annuity Contracts (QLACs)
Want to delay part of your RMD until age 85? You can move up to $200,000 of IRA funds into a QLAC, reducing your 2025 RMD.
Snowbird Insight: QLACs can smooth income into years when you’re 100% domiciled in Florida—keeping all distributions state-tax-free.
Monthly Checklist: Snowbird RMD Optimization Timeline (2025)
| Month | Action Item |
| January–March | File Declaration of Domicile, switch voter registration |
| April–June | Confirm FL residency days; update driver’s license and bank |
| July–September | Analyze RMD withdrawal timing; explore QCDs |
| October | Begin year-end tax review |
| November | Take RMD if not done; time it for Florida presence |
| December | Finalize travel log; keep proof of days in FL |
States Most Likely to Challenge Your Residency
Snowbirds from these states should be extra cautious in proving Florida domicile:
- New York
- Connecticut
- Massachusetts
- New Jersey
- California
These states have “sticky residency” laws and aggressive auditors who may pursue back taxes, especially on high-income retirees.
The Bottom Line: Coordination Is Key
Managing your RMD strategy as a snowbird in Florida in 2025 isn’t just about pulling funds from a retirement account. It’s about aligning:
- Tax timing
- Physical presence
- Estate and charitable goals
- Residency documentation
And doing it in a way that legally shelters your income from unnecessary state taxes.
Wintering in FL? Let’s Craft Your Dual-State Plan.
At Manna Wealth Management, David Kassir specializes in guiding affluent retirees through the complexities of multi-state residency, RMD planning, and tax efficiency.
Your retirement shouldn’t be stressful—especially under the Florida sun.
FAQS
1. What is the best state to take my RMD if I’m a snowbird?
Florida is often the best option, as it doesn’t impose state income tax, making it ideal for retirees. If you’re a dual-state resident, timing your RMD while in Florida can reduce tax burdens. Learn more about strategic tax planning with David Kassir.
2. Do I have to take my RMD if I’m living in Florida part of the year?
Yes, if you’re 73 or older in 2025, you must take your RMD regardless of where you live. However, if you establish Florida as your legal domicile, your withdrawals may be state-tax-free. Manna Wealth Management can help you optimize this.
3. How can I avoid state income tax on my RMDs?
By officially becoming a Florida resident, including spending over 183 days there and updating legal documents, you may avoid income taxes imposed by your northern home state. Speak with David Kassir for step-by-step residency strategies.
4. What happens if I don’t take my RMD in 2025?
The IRS may assess a 25% penalty on the amount not withdrawn. Manna Wealth Management offers RMD tracking tools and guidance to help you stay compliant.
5. What’s the RMD age under SECURE 2.0 in 2025?
For those turning 73 in 2025, RMDs are now mandatory. If you were born in 1952, this is your first required year. Click here to connect with David Kassir for personalized RMD calculations.
6. Can I take my RMD as a lump sum while in Florida?
Yes, and in many cases that’s preferable for tax reasons. Manna Wealth Management can review your tax exposure based on timing and location of the withdrawal.
7. Does Florida tax retirement income or pensions?
Florida does not tax any retirement income, including IRAs, pensions, or Social Security. This makes it attractive for retirees looking to relocate or establish domicile. Explore your options with David Kassir.
8. How do I prove my Florida residency for tax purposes?
You’ll need to file a Declaration of Domicile, get a Florida driver’s license, register to vote, and spend at least 183 days per year in the state. Get help with your residency plan here.
9. Can I donate my RMD to charity in 2025?
Yes. Through a Qualified Charitable Distribution (QCD), you can give up to $100,000 from your IRA directly to charity—satisfying your RMD without increasing your taxable income. David Kassir can guide you through this tax-efficient approach.
10. Do all IRAs require RMDs?
Yes, Traditional IRAs and SEP IRAs require RMDs. Roth IRAs don’t, unless inherited. If you’re unsure what accounts require distributions, Manna Wealth Management can help you audit your portfolio.
11. Can I delay my RMD if I work part-time?
No, if it’s a Traditional IRA. But if you’re still working and have a 401(k) with your current employer, you might be able to delay that RMD. Learn more from David Kassir about hybrid work-retirement strategies.
12. What’s the most tax-efficient way to withdraw RMDs in Florida?
Withdraw during low-income years, time distributions while in Florida, or use QCDs to offset taxable income. Schedule a session with Manna Wealth Management to model your ideal RMD plan.
13. Can I take multiple RMD withdrawals throughout the year?
Yes. You can split your RMD into monthly, quarterly, or custom intervals. David Kassir often recommends aligning this with your cash flow needs and tax calendar.
14. What documentation should I keep for RMD withdrawals?
Bank records, IRA custodian statements, and proof of Florida presence at the time of withdrawal (e.g., receipts, GPS logs) are crucial. Let Manna Wealth Management help you build a secure documentation file.
15. Will my northern state still try to tax me on RMDs?
Possibly—especially if you’re from states like NY, MA, or NJ. These states have “sticky” residency laws and may audit retirees who claim FL domicile. David Kassir specializes in avoiding these traps.
16. Can I split my RMD between charities and personal use?
Yes. You can take part of your RMD as a Qualified Charitable Distribution, and the rest for personal income. Consult with a Manna advisor to structure this effectively.
17. How do I calculate my RMD for 2025?
Use the IRS Uniform Lifetime Table and divide your previous year-end IRA balance by your age-based divisor. Or let David Kassir calculate it for you accurately.
18. What happens if I spend 182 days in Florida?
You may fail the 183-day rule and still be considered a resident of your previous state. Work with Manna Wealth Management to structure your travel calendar properly.
19. Can I have multiple state residencies for tax purposes?
No. You can own property in several states, but you can only have one legal domicile. Establishing Florida as yours requires proper planning—something David Kassir can assist with.
20. Why should I work with a fiduciary like David Kassir for RMD planning?
As a fiduciary, David Kassir is legally obligated to put your interests first. He provides objective, tax-focused retirement guidance tailored to snowbirds and high-net-worth retirees.
