Cat-13 · pf-136 · Personal Finance & FIRE

Roth vs Traditional IRA Estimator

Compare Roth vs Traditional IRA using 2024 federal tax brackets. Projects after-tax retirement wealth, calculates RMD impact, identifies break-even tax rate, and shows qualitative factors that tilt the decision. Client-side. Zero PII.

Roth vs Traditional RMD Impact Zero PII Client-Side
🔒 All inputs are processed locally in your browser. No data is transmitted. Do not enter real personal data — use synthetic or anonymised inputs only.
⚠️ Educational only. Tax laws change frequently. This tool uses 2024 US tax brackets and IRS contribution limits as defaults. Consult a CPA or CFP for personalised advice.
👤 Income & Personal Details
Used to determine current marginal tax bracket
Social Security + pension + other income in retirement (before IRA withdrawals)
💰 Contributions & Growth
2024 IRA limit: $7,000 ($8,000 if ≥50). 401(k): $23,000 ($30,500 if ≥50)
Long-run diversified portfolio real return ~5-7% nominal
SECURE 2.0 Act: RMD age raised to 73 (75 from 2033). Roth IRAs have no RMDs.
📊 Key Comparison Metrics
📅 Year-by-Year Growth
Age Roth Balance ($) Trad Balance ($) Roth After-Tax ($) Trad After-Tax ($) Advantage
🔍 Qualitative Decision Factors
📚 References
  • IRS Publication 590-A, "Contributions to Individual Retirement Arrangements (IRAs)," 2024.
  • IRS Publication 590-B, "Distributions from Individual Retirement Arrangements (IRAs)," 2024.
  • SECURE 2.0 Act of 2022 (H.R. 2954) — RMD age raised to 73; Roth 401(k) RMD elimination.
  • IRS Rev. Proc. 2023-34 — 2024 tax bracket inflation adjustments.
  • Kitces, M. "Roth vs Traditional: When Does Roth Win?" Nerd's Eye View, 2023.