Roth IRA Calculator

Calculate your Roth IRA growth potential and retirement savings with tax-free withdrawals

The Roth IRA Calculator helps you estimate the growth of your after-tax retirement contributions. Unlike traditional IRAs, Roth IRA withdrawals in retirement are completely tax-free, making them an excellent long-term savings vehicle.

Current Information

Contribution Information

2024 limit: $7,000

Investment Information

Historical stock market average: ~10%
Penalty-free withdrawals start at age 59½

Advanced Options

Quick Scenarios

Roth IRA Projection

Enter your information to see Roth IRA projection

How Roth IRAs Work

Roth IRA Basics

After-Tax Contributions: You contribute money that has already been taxed.
Tax-Free Growth: Your investments grow without being taxed on gains.
Tax-Free Withdrawals: Qualified withdrawals in retirement are completely tax-free.
No RMDs: Unlike traditional IRAs, there are no required minimum distributions.
Contribution Access: You can withdraw contributions (not earnings) anytime penalty-free.

2024 Contribution Limits

Under age 50:$7,000
Age 50 and over:$8,000
Income Phase-Out Ranges:
Single:$138,000 - $153,000
Married Joint:$218,000 - $228,000

Roth IRA vs Traditional IRA

FeatureRoth IRATraditional IRA
Tax TreatmentAfter-tax contributions, tax-free withdrawalsPre-tax contributions, taxed on withdrawals
Income LimitsYes, phase-out at higher incomesNo income limits for contributions
Required DistributionsNone during lifetimeRequired at age 73
Early WithdrawalContributions anytime, earnings after 59½10% penalty before 59½ (with exceptions)
Best ForYoung savers, those expecting higher tax ratesCurrent high earners, immediate tax deduction

Example: 25-Year-Old Starting a Roth IRA

Scenario: Young Professional

Assumptions

Current Age:25
Annual Contribution:$6,000
Expected Return:8%
Retirement Age:65
Years Investing:40 years

Results

Total Contributions:$240,000
Investment Growth:$1,358,318
Tax-Free Withdrawals:$1,598,318
Final Balance:$1,598,318
All withdrawals in retirement are tax-free!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I withdraw money from my Roth IRA before retirement?

Yes, you can withdraw your contributions (the money you put in) at any time without taxes or penalties. However, withdrawing earnings before age 59½ may result in taxes and a 10% penalty, unless you qualify for an exception (first-time home purchase, education expenses, etc.).

What if my income is too high for a Roth IRA?

If your income exceeds the limits, you can consider a "backdoor Roth IRA." This involves contributing to a traditional IRA (with no income limits) and then converting it to a Roth IRA. Consult a tax professional for guidance on this strategy.

Should I choose a Roth IRA or traditional IRA?

Choose a Roth IRA if you expect to be in a higher tax bracket in retirement, are young with many years to grow tax-free, or want flexibility with no required distributions. Choose traditional if you want an immediate tax deduction and expect to be in a lower tax bracket in retirement.