If the IRA holder turns 70 1/2 this year, he can defer his first distribution until April 1 of the next year. If he is older, he would normally be required to take his RMD before December 31 of this year. However, recent legislation allows account holders to skip their 2009 RMD. in any case, RMDs are considered taxable income for the year in which they are taken.
Keep in mind that your retirement could potentially last 20 years or more, so your total retirement savings goals could be substantial.