Roth versus Traditional IRA: Determining the Superior Option

by | Sep 13, 2023 | Traditional IRA | 2 comments

Roth versus Traditional IRA: Determining the Superior Option




While there is NO blanket answer for which is better, in this video I give you the information you need to decide which of these may be better for you and your financial situation!

Each of these have their own ideal time and place, but it is all dependent on your personal circumstance because, like all things finance, what works best for you may not work best for your neighbor!

Some highlights of the video. . .
Trad IRA= pre-tax contributions
Roth IRA= post-tax contribution
If covered by an Employer-Savings Plan, there are income thresholds to deductibility and thresholds.

Watch this video, share it with someone who needs IRAs explained as simply as this video does and make sure you subscribe plus follow the socials @FinLitWithSal !

IRS Contribution Limits:

IRS Thresholds (Roth):

IRS Employer Sponsored Plan Thresholds (Traditional):

IRS Exceptions to the Early Withdrawal Penalty:

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***DISCLAIMER: This video is not Financial Advice, nor should be construed as such. This video along with anything on my channel is STRICTLY for educational purposes.***…(read more)


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Roth vs Traditional IRA: Which Is Better?!

Planning for your retirement requires making wise financial decisions, and one essential aspect of retirement planning is choosing the right individual retirement account (IRA). The two main types of IRAs are Roth and Traditional IRAs. While both options offer distinct advantages, determining which one is better for you depends on various factors, including your current financial situation, future retirement plans, and tax expectations. In this article, we will explore the key differences between Roth and Traditional IRAs, helping you make an informed decision.

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Tax treatment is a significant factor that sets Roth and Traditional IRAs apart. With a Traditional IRA, you contribute pre-tax income, reducing your taxable income for the year. This means you don’t pay taxes on the contributions you make, providing an immediate tax benefit. However, when you withdraw funds during retirement, you will have to pay taxes on the distributions at your regular income tax rate. In contrast, Roth IRAs are funded with after-tax income, meaning you won’t see any immediate tax benefits when contributing. However, the advantage lies in retirement: qualified distributions are tax-free, including the investment gains you earned over the years. This tax-free growth potential can be a substantial benefit for those with a long time horizon before retirement.

Another key difference between the two IRA types lies in the income restrictions. Traditional IRAs have no income limitations, allowing anyone, regardless of their income level, to contribute. However, there are income limits for Roth IRAs. Depending on your filing status and modified adjusted gross income (MAGI), your ability to contribute to a Roth IRA may be limited or eliminated entirely. For individuals with high incomes, this restriction can make a Traditional IRA a more viable option.

Considerations related to required minimum distributions (RMDs) also play a role in the Roth vs Traditional IRA decision. Traditional IRAs require individuals to start taking RMDs at age 72 (formerly 70 ½), whether they need the funds or not. These withdrawals are subject to income tax and can potentially increase your tax liability. In contrast, Roth IRAs have no RMDs during the account owner’s lifetime. This makes Roth IRAs advantageous for individuals looking to minimize future tax obligations or planning to leave their retirement savings to heirs.

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Investment flexibility is an aspect worth considering when comparing Roth and Traditional IRAs. Both account types allow investments in a wide range of asset classes, including stocks, bonds, mutual funds, and exchange-traded funds. However, Traditional IRAs may subject you to restrictions when converting to a Roth IRA. Due to tax considerations, you may incur a tax liability when converting Traditional IRA funds into a Roth IRA. Therefore, individuals with a longer time horizon and higher risk tolerance may find the Roth IRA’s investment flexibility more appealing.

While the choice between Roth and Traditional IRAs ultimately depends on your specific financial situation and goals, it’s worth noting that the ability to contribute to both types of IRAs exists. This is known as the backdoor Roth IRA conversion, a strategy in which individuals contribute to a Traditional IRA and then convert it into a Roth IRA. The process involves additional tax considerations and is subject to specific rules, so consult with a financial advisor or tax professional to ensure proper execution.

In conclusion, deciding between a Roth and Traditional IRA is a personal choice that depends on several factors, including your current and future tax situation, income level, RMD preferences, investment flexibility, and long-term financial goals. Assessing these factors and understanding the pros and cons of each IRA type will help you make a well-informed decision on which option is best suited for your retirement needs. Remember, there’s no one-size-fits-all answer, and consulting with a financial advisor is highly recommended to determine the best IRA strategy for your unique circumstances.

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2 Comments

  1. Philip Mauigoa

    Amazing video brotha! This really helped a lot!

  2. Avery Heilbron

    I'm feeling lit this AM! I personally put money into both because I plan to retire by 30. I'm not totally sure if I'd take another job, start a business, etc. and increase my income (Roth makes sense here) or just try to live off my passive income and keep my income as low as possible and keep my traditional IRA going here. I also plan to do some Roth conversions down the road so I can take out my money from my traditional IRA penalty free prior to 59.5

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