Roth vs Traditional Calculator

How to use this calculator

Enter contribution, current tax rate, expected retirement tax rate, and growth multiplier. The tool compares Roth after-tax growth with a traditional contribution adjusted for taxes.

When this calculator is useful

• Understanding tax-rate tradeoffs
• Comparing Roth IRA versus deductible contributions
• Testing future tax scenarios

Important limitations

This is simplified. Eligibility, contribution limits, state taxes, RMDs, credits, employer plans, and investment choices matter.

For best results, run at least three cases: a conservative case, a middle case, and a stretch case. If a small change in inputs creates a big change in the answer, that is a sign the decision may be sensitive to rates, fees, timing, or market performance.

Frequently asked questions

How do I use the Roth vs Traditional Calculator?

Enter contribution, current tax rate, expected retirement tax rate, and growth multiplier. The tool compares Roth after-tax growth with a traditional contribution adjusted for taxes.

Is the Roth vs Traditional Calculator financial advice?

No. Daily Money Radar calculators are educational estimates only and are not personalized financial, tax, legal, investment, or trading advice.