Roth IRA Calculator
Simulate your tax-free retirement growth, compound interest yields, and compare Roth vs Traditional IRA post-tax liquidation advantages.
Projected Tax-Free Balance at Age 65
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37-Year Wealth Accumulation Trajectory
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Amortization & Compound Ledger (Initial 10-Year Sample)
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Mathematical Methodology & Computational Formulas
CalculatePilot models tax-free custodial accumulation through the standard future value formula of an annuity due (contributions made at the start of each year) compounded annually, integrated with initial lump-sum seed appreciation:
5-Year Rule & Qualified Distributions
Roth IRA earnings can be withdrawn completely tax-free and penalty-free once the account holder reaches age 59½ and has satisfied the IRS 5-year aging requirement, which starts on January 1 of the tax year of the first Roth IRA contribution.
Principal Liquidity Shield
Because contributions are made with after-tax dollars, the $289,500 contribution basis may be withdrawn at any time, for any reason, without taxes or early withdrawal penalties under IRC Section 408A ordering rules.
Why Roth IRA growth is tax-free
Roth IRA contributions are made with after-tax dollars — you don't get a tax deduction upfront, unlike a traditional IRA or 401(k). In exchange, both the growth and qualified withdrawals in retirement are entirely tax-free, which can be a significant advantage over a multi-decade investment horizon.
This makes a Roth IRA particularly valuable if you expect to be in a similar or higher tax bracket in retirement, since you're locking in today's tax rate on contributions rather than paying tax on a potentially larger balance later. If you expect a lower bracket in retirement, the Traditional IRA's up-front deduction can come out ahead — the head-to-head table above shows which way your inputs point.
2026 Roth IRA contribution limits
For 2026 you can contribute up to $7,500 across all your IRAs, or $8,600 if you are 50 or older (a $1,100 catch-up). You can't contribute more than your taxable compensation for the year. With the max-out toggle on, this calculator switches to the catch-up limit automatically from the year you turn 50. Future limits are indexed to inflation, but the projection holds them at 2026 levels to stay conservative.
| Filing status (2026) | Full contribution if MAGI below | No direct contribution at or above |
|---|---|---|
| Single / head of household | $153,000 | $168,000 |
| Married filing jointly | $242,000 | $252,000 |
| Married filing separately* | — | $10,000 |
Inside the phase-out range the allowed contribution shrinks proportionally (rounded up to the next $10, with a $200 minimum). Enter your filing status and MAGI under Income eligibility and the calculator applies the reduced limit. *If you lived apart from your spouse all year, use the single ranges. Source: IRS — 2026 IRA limits and Roth phase-out ranges.
How this calculator works
Each year the calculator adds your contribution at the start of the year (capped at that year's IRS limit for your age and income), then grows the whole balance at your expected return. The Traditional IRA comparison uses the same contributions and returns, taxes the full withdrawal at your retirement bracket, and credits the Traditional side with the tax deduction it would have earned at your current bracket. The monthly income figure applies your chosen safe withdrawal rate to the final balance, and the "today's dollars" figure discounts it by inflation.
Unlike a 401(k), an IRA is opened independently through a brokerage rather than through an employer, giving you more control over investment choices but without an employer match. To see your full retirement picture across all accounts, try the Retirement Calculator.
Frequently asked questions
What's the difference between a Roth IRA and a traditional IRA?
Traditional IRA contributions are often tax-deductible now but taxed on withdrawal in retirement. Roth IRA contributions are made with after-tax money now, but qualified withdrawals in retirement are completely tax-free.
Is there an income limit for contributing to a Roth IRA?
Yes. For 2026, direct contributions phase out between $153,000 and $168,000 of modified AGI for single filers and between $242,000 and $252,000 for married couples filing jointly. Above the top of the range you can't contribute directly.
How much can I contribute to a Roth IRA in 2026?
Up to $7,500, or $8,600 if you are age 50 or older by the end of the year — but never more than your taxable compensation. The limit is shared across all your traditional and Roth IRAs.
When can I withdraw Roth IRA earnings tax-free?
Earnings come out tax- and penalty-free once you are 59½ and your first Roth IRA contribution was made at least five tax years earlier. Your own contributions can be withdrawn at any time without tax or penalty.
Do Roth IRAs have required minimum distributions?
No. The original owner never has to take RMDs from a Roth IRA, so the balance can keep compounding tax-free for life. Traditional IRAs require distributions starting at age 73 (75 for people born in 1960 or later).
Limits checked against IRS guidance for tax year 2026 · Our methodology · Last updated September 2026