The Smart Calc

IRA Calculator

Project Traditional vs. Roth IRA growth over time with annual contributions and tax comparison.

Parameters

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Results

Total Projected IRA Balance

$1,074,423.96

Gross pre-tax balance; taxed upon withdrawal in retirement

Estimated After-Tax Retirement Value

$913,260.37

Total Upfront Tax Savings

$58,800.00

Total Contributions

$245,000.00

Total Investment Growth

$819,423.96

Building Wealth with IRAs

How It Works

Simulates annual compounding on initial IRA balance plus annual contributions. For Traditional IRAs, it models upfront tax deductions and retirement tax liability. For Roth IRAs, it models tax-free qualified withdrawals.

How to Use

1. Select Traditional or Roth IRA account type. 2. Enter current age, retirement age, starting balance, and annual contribution. 3. For Traditional IRAs, input your current and expected retirement tax rates to compare after-tax retirement wealth.

Understanding the Results

Compares gross ending balance with estimated after-tax retirement value, accounting for tax deductions now vs. tax-free growth later.

IRA FAQ

FAQ

What is the difference between Traditional and Roth IRA?

Traditional IRA contributions may be tax-deductible today, but withdrawals in retirement are taxed as ordinary income. Roth IRA contributions are made with after-tax dollars, but qualified withdrawals in retirement are 100% tax-free.

Can I contribute to both a 401(k) and an IRA?

Yes, eligible individuals can contribute to both an employer-sponsored 401(k) and an IRA up to each account's annual statutory limits.