Roth IRA vs. Traditional IRA: A Comprehensive Guide to Retirement Savings

Choosing the right Individual Retirement Account (IRA) is a crucial step in planning for a secure financial future. Below, we will discuss the differences between a Roth IRA and a Traditional IRA, the benefits and drawbacks of each, and the concept of Roth conversions. Understanding these options can help you make informed decisions about your retirement savings strategy.

Roth vs. Traditional IRA: The Basics

Benefits and Drawbacks: 

Traditional to Roth IRA Conversions:

A Roth conversion is the process of transferring part or all the funds from a Traditional IRA to a Roth IRA. This involves paying taxes on the amount converted, but future earnings and qualified withdrawals will be tax-free. Roth conversions can be a strategic move for individuals who expect to be in a higher tax bracket during retirement or who want to avoid RMDs.

Considerations for IRA to Roth Conversions:

The long-term benefits of converting a traditional IRA to a Roth can be substantial, but individual circumstances and goals will dictate suitability.

Below are just some of the facts that need to be considered if you are thinking of doing a partial or full Roth conversion:‍

• ‍Contributions are subject to current tax rates: Assets from a traditional IRA that are transferred to a Roth will be subject to tax at current rates.
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• Lifelong contributions: While there is technically not an age limit on contributions in either vehicle, contributions to a traditional IRA usually stop making sense when required minimum distributions begin to be taken out of the account.
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• Tax-free growth and withdrawals: Contribution growth and future withdrawals are both tax-free in a Roth, provided the account has been open for at least 5 years.
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• Freedom to decide when to make withdrawals: Roth IRAs do not have mandatory minimum disbursement requirements so your wealth can grow tax-free without interruption.
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• Ability to convert at your own pace: Conversion can strategically span over a few years to spread out taxes owed and avoid being pushed into higher tax brackets.
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• Tax-efficient inheritance to your heirs: Converting your IRA to a Roth will eliminate an unexpected tax burden that beneficiaries may otherwise need to plan for.
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• Increase your impact: Special tax rules in 2021 allow individuals to offset 100% of their income with cash contributions to charity; meaning individuals can make larger donations to offset the income tax hit from conversion.
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• Current year taxes increase: A Roth conversion will increase your current year tax liability as all contributions in Roth IRAs are after-tax dollars. Available liquidity for tax payments is an important consideration.
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• No current year tax deductions: Unlike traditional IRA contributions, Roth IRA contributions are not tax deductible.
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• 10 Year distribution timeline after death: Under the SECURE Act, beneficiaries will need to withdrawall of the funds in the IRA within 10 years of the owner’s death.

Conclusion:

Understanding the differences between a Roth IRA and a Traditional IRA, as well as the benefits and drawbacks of each, is essential for creating a retirement savings strategy tailored to your needs. Deciding whether to convert to a Roth IRA depends on issues like your tax rate now versus later, the liquidity you have available to pay the tax bill following conversion, and your long-term plans for your estate. A Roth conversion is a permanent taxable event so thorough analysis is prudent and highly recommended. Working with a qualified professional can help you navigate these choices and develop a comprehensive retirement plan.

Modern x Fiduciary: At Fire Capital Management, we combine the personalized service you deserve with a modern approach to investment management you can feel. Partnering with Fire Capital is tailored, transparent, and flexible. We will develop a custom plan across traditional and alternative asset classes in both the public and private markets to meet your unique needs.

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