You are also subject to the income phase-outs that come with contributions to a Roth IRA. Required minimum withdrawals for Traditional IRAs start at age 70 1/2, and you have to be age 59 1/2 to begin taking non-qualified distributions penalty-free from your Roth.Make sure you understand IRA rules before opening this type of account for your spouse.equired minimum withdrawals for Traditional IRAs start at age 70 1/2, and you have to be age 59 1/2 to begin taking non-qualified distributions penalty-free from your Roth. Make sure you understand IRA rules before opening this type of account for your spouse.