RETIREMENT · INDIVIDUAL ACCOUNTS

Roth IRA Calculator

See how your after-tax Roth IRA contributions compound tax-free over time. Includes contribution limits based on age and projected tax-free retirement income.

LAST REVIEWED · APR 08, 2026 · BY A. CHEN, CFP®
You need
$1,127,807
Roth IRA DetailsReset
Your age
30 yrs
1875
Annual contributionMax $7,000
$7,000
$0$8,000
Current balance
$15,000
$0$1M
Years to grow
35 yrs
150
Expected return
7%
1%12%
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How the Roth IRA calculator works

This calculator compounds your current Roth IRA balance and annual contributions at your chosen rate of return. Contributions are capped at IRS limits: $7,000 per year, or $8,000 if you’re 50 or older.

Why Roth IRAs are powerful

You pay tax on contributions now, but all future growth and withdrawals are tax-free. This makes Roth IRAs especially valuable if you expect to be in a higher tax bracket in retirement, or if you want tax diversification alongside a traditional 401(k).

Roth IRA vs Traditional IRA

The key difference is timing of tax benefits. Traditional IRAs give you a tax deduction now but tax withdrawals later. Roth IRAs tax you now but withdrawals are free. If your current tax rate is lower than your expected future rate, Roth wins.

Methodology. Compound growth on annual contributions capped at IRS limits ($7,000 under 50, $8,000 at 50+). Balance grows at the selected rate of return with annual compounding. Tax-free income estimated using a 25-year retirement horizon.

Sources

  • IRS Publication 590-A — Contributions to Individual Retirement Arrangements
  • 2026 Roth IRA contribution limit: $7,000 ($8,000 catch-up for 50+)
  • Income phase-out ranges per IRS Rev. Proc. 2025-31
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Frequently asked questions

Can I contribute to both a 401(k) and a Roth IRA? +
Yes, as long as your income is below the Roth IRA phase-out limits. The contribution limits are separate — you can max out both.
What if I exceed the income limit? +
You can use the ‘backdoor Roth’ strategy: contribute to a Traditional IRA, then convert to Roth. Consult a tax advisor for the pro-rata rule implications.
When can I withdraw Roth IRA earnings tax-free? +
After age 59½ and at least 5 years after your first contribution. You can always withdraw your contributions (not earnings) penalty-free.
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