When is the Best Time to Contribute to Retirement Planning: ROTH vs. PRE-Tax 401k or Traditional IRA?

by | Sep 1, 2023 | Traditional IRA | 3 comments

When is the Best Time to Contribute to Retirement Planning: ROTH vs. PRE-Tax 401k or Traditional IRA?




Should you invest & pay taxes now for your retirement planning – Roth IRA / Roth 401k OR should you get the tax deduction and invest in a PRE-TAX Traditional IRA or 401k? There are many opinions about investing in AFTER TAX retirement accounts vs PRE-TAX retirement accounts, but how many times have you thought about when is it BEST FOR YOU?

From my perspective, as a Florida resident that lives in a state with NO state income tax AND plans to remain a Florida resident – in a state with no state income tax – throughout our retirement years…I am a firm believer in maxing out your Roth IRA and/or Roth 401k.

However, if you currently live in a state that has a state income tax & you’re in a high tax bracket & you plan to retire to a state that does NOT have a state income tax AND you plan to reduce your retirement lifestyle/expenses…then I believe you should contribute to your PRE TAX retirement accounts.

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retirement planning: ROTH vs Pre-Tax 401k or Traditional IRA – When is it Best to Contribute?

When it comes to retirement planning, one of the most important decisions you need to make is where to contribute your hard-earned money. Two popular options are the ROTH and the pre-tax 401k or traditional IRA. Each of these retirement accounts has its own advantages and considerations, depending on your financial situation and long-term goals. Understanding the differences between them can help you make an informed decision and maximize the benefits of your retirement savings.

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ROTH retirement accounts are known for their tax advantages. Contributions to a ROTH 401k or ROTH IRA are made with after-tax dollars, meaning you pay taxes upfront. However, the withdrawals you make during retirement are completely tax-free, including the earnings on your investments. This can be extremely beneficial if you predict your tax rate to be higher in retirement compared to your current rate. It also provides flexibility, as there are no required minimum distributions (RMDs) during your lifetime, allowing you to leave the money untouched and potentially pass it along to your heirs.

On the other hand, pre-tax 401k plans and traditional IRAs allow you to make contributions with pre-tax dollars, reducing your taxable income in the year of contribution. This reduces your immediate tax liability, as the money grows tax-deferred until you withdraw it in retirement. However, withdrawals from these accounts are subject to income tax at your future tax rate. If you anticipate a lower tax bracket during retirement, contributing to a pre-tax account can be advantageous. Additionally, these accounts do have RMDs, which means you must begin taking required minimum distributions once you reach the age of 72 (for accounts opened after 2019).

Determining which option is best for you depends on multiple factors, such as your current and potential future tax brackets, your anticipated financial needs in retirement, and your long-term investment strategy. Here are a few scenarios to consider:

1. Young professionals with lower incomes: If you are just starting your career and expect your income to rise significantly over time, contributing to a ROTH account could be a wise choice. The tax-free withdrawals during retirement will provide a valuable source of income, without pushing you into a higher tax bracket.

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2. High-income earners: Individuals with high current incomes, who expect to be in a lower tax bracket during retirement, might benefit from contributing to a pre-tax account. This allows them to reduce their taxable income now, potentially providing more disposable income to invest or save for other financial goals.

3. Individuals nearing retirement: If retirement is just around the corner, and you have accumulated a significant nest egg, diversifying your accounts can be a smart move. Contributing to both pre-tax and ROTH accounts can provide a tax-efficient retirement income strategy, allowing you to manage your tax liability better.

4. Estate planning and legacy considerations: For those who wish to leave a financial legacy to their heirs, ROTH retirement accounts offer unique advantages. Contributions made to a ROTH account can continue growing tax-free during your lifetime, and qualified distributions to beneficiaries remain tax-free, helping to minimize potential taxes on the inherited funds.

Ultimately, the decision on whether to contribute to a ROTH account or a pre-tax 401k or traditional IRA depends on individual circumstances. Consulting with a financial advisor who specializes in retirement planning can help you evaluate your specific situation and tailor a strategy that aligns with your goals and objectives.

In summary, ROTH accounts can offer tax-free withdrawals during retirement and flexibility, while pre-tax accounts provide immediate tax savings. Consider your current and projected future tax rates, timeline to retirement, and desired legacy planning when deciding where to contribute your retirement funds. A well-thought-out retirement plan not only maximizes your savings potential but also ensures financial security and peace of mind in your golden years.

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3 Comments

  1. James Bond

    What I love about the Roth 401(k) is it can help you save on taxes in retirement. Not only are withdrawals tax-free at 59 1/2 , it won't impact the taxation of your Social Security benefit and Medicare premiums.This is an important aspect of a Roth account that most people are not aware of.
    yes right now I prefer the Roth 401k! Because I am paying 19% in taxes on my Roth contributions. That is for state and federal combined.

  2. Ravishing Hunk

    I invest 50% of my contribution in my Roth 401k and 50% in my traditional 401k..

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