I will be 70 1/2 Aug 2001. Much of my retirement income derives from ira's rolled over from my work 401-k's.

I understand there's a statistically derived table that specifies my expected number of years to live after 70 1/2. That value, which changes every year, I believe, is used in the calculation of the amount I have to withdraw from the ira's so that "uncle" gets his pound of flesh each year.

What is that number for me as a male in reasonably good health? Also, I'd appreciate getting directed to articles that go into some detail on what I can expect starting next year.

Thanx