Comparing Roth IRA and Traditional IRA in light of 2018 U.S. Tax Changes

by | Jan 28, 2024 | Traditional IRA | 4 comments

Comparing Roth IRA and Traditional IRA in light of 2018 U.S. Tax Changes




This video looks at Traditional IRA vs Roth IRA. Roth IRA and Traditional IRA are the two most common retirement plans. The differences between a Traditional IRA vs a Roth IRA are important to understand. This video will cover Traditional IRA basics as well as Roth IRA basics.
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In 2018, the U.S. tax code underwent significant changes, affecting various aspects of personal finance, including retirement planning. One of the key areas impacted by the new tax laws is individual retirement accounts (IRA), particularly Roth IRAs and Traditional IRAs. For individuals looking to maximize their retirement savings, understanding the differences between these two retirement vehicles and how the new tax laws affect their contributions and withdrawals is crucial.

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Let’s start by clarifying the basic differences between Roth IRAs and Traditional IRAs. Traditional IRAs allow individuals to make pre-tax contributions, meaning that the money invested in the account is tax-deductible in the year it is contributed. This allows for immediate tax savings. However, withdrawals from a Traditional IRA in retirement are taxed as ordinary income.

On the other hand, Roth IRAs require after-tax contributions, meaning that the money is contributed with already-taxed dollars. However, the major benefit of a Roth IRA is that qualified withdrawals in retirement are tax-free, including the earnings accrued over time. This makes Roth IRAs a particularly attractive option for individuals who anticipate being in a higher tax bracket during retirement or who want to maximize tax-free income in retirement.

The 2018 tax changes brought about several updates that directly impact both Roth and Traditional IRAs. One of the most significant changes affects the ability to recharacterize contributions. Pre-2018, individuals were allowed to recharacterize a contribution from a Traditional IRA to a Roth IRA or vice versa if they wished to change the tax status of their contributions. However, the 2018 tax changes have eliminated this option, meaning that once a contribution is made to a specific type of IRA, it cannot be recharacterized.

Additionally, the 2018 tax changes expanded the income limits for Roth IRA eligibility. Now, individuals who are married and filing jointly can contribute to a Roth IRA as long as their modified adjusted gross income (MAGI) is less than $189,000, with a phase-out starting at $179,000. For single filers, the income limit is $120,000, with a phase-out starting at $120,000. This change has made Roth IRAs accessible to a larger portion of the population.

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With the new tax laws in place, individuals need to carefully consider their retirement saving strategies. For those who may be in a higher tax bracket during retirement or who want to diversify their tax exposure, Roth IRAs may be a more appealing option. On the other hand, individuals who are looking for immediate tax savings and anticipate being in a lower tax bracket during retirement may still find Traditional IRAs more suitable.

Ultimately, the decision between Roth and Traditional IRAs depends on individual financial circumstances, long-term retirement goals, and current and future tax implications. It is important for individuals to consult with a financial advisor or tax professional to determine the most advantageous retirement savings strategy in light of the 2018 tax changes.

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4 Comments

  1. @AlejandroLopez-zo7ki

    Whoa!! Thank you very much for the information. Jimmy ( the voice sounds like Jimmy's)

  2. @jrcozens

    I was under the belief that taxes where ether taken out of the person's paycheck or in April not out of the amount deposited. So shouldn't both examples above be out of 10K. Just one method has the person paying 10k less in taxes now. EXP: if you made 50k and did a Roth you would pay an income tax on 50k wall if you did a traditional you would pay income tax on 40k. both accounts will still be founded with 10k. What do you all think?

  3. @josephminder7366

    Hey you should advertise a comprehensive free stock trading course on youtube

  4. @VitoSgotto

    What are the limits as to how much I can contribute to each type of IRA? Is this different than 401k contributions? Thanks!

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