Roth IRA Calculator
Project your Roth IRA balance at retirement. Tax-free growth and withdrawals.
How the Roth IRA calculator works
Enter your annual contribution (up to the limit), current age, retirement age, and expected return. The calculator projects your tax-free balance at retirement. Contributions are after-tax; withdrawals in retirement are tax-free.
Roth IRA contribution limits
| Tax year | Under 50 | 50+ (catch-up) | Total 50+ |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2025 | $7,000 | +$1,000 | $8,000 |
| 2026 | $7,500 | +$1,100 | $8,600 |
Income limits (2026): Phase-out applies above certain AGI. Single: full contribution if AGI < $153K; phase-out $153K–$168K. Married joint: full if AGI < $242K; phase-out $242K–$252K. Above phase-out, use backdoor Roth.
Roth vs Traditional IRA
Roth: contribute after-tax, grow tax-free, withdraw tax-free in retirement. Traditional: deduct contributions, grow tax-deferred, pay tax on withdrawals. Roth is often better if you expect a higher tax bracket in retirement. Use our 401k calculator to compare Traditional vs Roth employer plans.
Common Questions About Roth IRAs
What is a Roth IRA and how does it work?
A Roth IRA is a retirement account where you contribute after-tax dollars. Your money grows tax-free, and qualified withdrawals in retirement are tax-free. Unlike a Traditional IRA, you don't get a tax deduction when you contribute—but you never pay tax on earnings. There are no required minimum distributions (RMDs) during your lifetime, so you can let the account grow or pass it to heirs.
When can I withdraw from a Roth IRA without penalty?
Contributions can be withdrawn anytime, tax- and penalty-free. Earnings are tax-free after you're 59½ and the account has been open 5 years. Exceptions: first-time home purchase (up to $10,000), disability, death, or unreimbursed medical expenses. Before 59½, non-qualified earnings withdrawals may be subject to income tax and a 10% penalty.
What are the Roth IRA income limits and phase-outs?
For 2026: Single—full contribution if AGI < $153,000; phase-out $153,000–$168,000. Married filing jointly—full if AGI < $242,000; phase-out $242,000–$252,000. Above the phase-out, you can't contribute directly—use a backdoor Roth: contribute to a non-deductible Traditional IRA and convert to Roth. Consult a tax advisor for your situation.
Roth IRA vs 401k: can I have both?
Yes. Roth IRA and 401k limits are separate. You can max both. 2026 limits: 401k $24,500 ($32,500 if 50+), Roth IRA $7,500 ($8,600 if 50+). Many investors max their 401k match first, then contribute to a Roth IRA for tax diversification. Use our 401k calculator and the calculator above to plan your retirement savings.
How much will my Roth IRA be worth at retirement?
Use the calculator above. Enter your annual contribution, current age, retirement age, and expected return (historically ~7–10% for stocks, adjust for your mix). The calculator compounds annually. Contributing $7,500/year from age 30 to 65 at 7% return yields roughly $1.2 million—all tax-free in retirement.