What is the deadline for Fred's next required minimum distribution after he turned 70½?

The deadline for Fred's next required minimum distribution (RMD) after he turned 70½ is actually April 1, 2018. According to tax regulations, individuals must begin taking RMDs from their qualified retirement accounts by April 1 of the year following the year in which they turn 70½. This means that if Fred turned 70½ in 2017, he must take his first RMD by April 1, 2018.

It's also important to note that while the RMD for the year in which he turns 70½ can be delayed until April 1 of the following year, subsequent RMDs must be made by December 31 of each year. Therefore, the correct understanding of the timing of RMDs clarifies why April 1, 2018, is indeed the proper deadline for Fred's first required distribution.