Roth 401(k) vs. Traditional 401(k)
Your retirement income can vary widely depending on what type of account holds your savings and what assumptions are made about overall returns and tax rates during the accumulation and withdrawal periods. Use this calculator to help compare employee contributions to the new after-tax Roth 401(k) and the current tax-deductible 401(k).
This is a hypothetical example used for illustrative purposes only. This worksheet provides estimates based on certain assumptions. It is not intended to provide specific investment advice. The results are not a guarantee of performance. The rate of return on investments will vary over time, particularly for longer-term investments. Investments that offer the potential for high returns also carry a high degree of risk. Actual returns will fluctuate. The types of securities and strategies illustrated may not be suitable for everyone. Roth IRA contributions cannot be made by taxpayers with high incomes. To qualify for the tax-free and penalty-free withdrawal of earnings, Roth IRA distributions must meet a five-year holding requirement and distribution must take place after age 59½. Tax-free and penalty-free withdrawal also can be taken under certain other circumstances, such as a result of the owners death. The original Roth IRA owner is not required to take minimum annual withdrawals. Contributions to a Traditional IRA may be fully or partially deductable, depending on your individual circumstance. In most circumstances, once you reach age 73, you must begin taking required minimum distributions from a Traditional Individual Retirement Account (IRA) and most other employer-sponsored retirement plans. Withdrawals from Traditional IRAs are taxed as ordinary income and, if taken before age 59½, may be subject to a 10% federal income tax penalty. You may continue to contribute to a Traditional IRA past age 70½ as long as you meet the earned-income requirement. A tax professional can help assess your specific situation.
