Regular 401(k) vs. Roth 401(k)

You can use this calculator to compare the results of contributing to a regular 401(k) versus a Roth 401(k) (a designated Roth account).

To open this calculator, click Calculators in the toolbar, and then click Retirement > Regular 401(k) vs. Roth 401(k) in the left panel.

You can export the data as a PDF file or clear all data that you entered. For more information, see Financial calculators.

Example

A taxpayer is offered an opportunity to contribute to a Roth 401(k) at his current employer. What tax savings are available?

Field Input
Monthly gross pay $7,200
Employee contribution rate 14.00%
Employer match rate 4.00%
Federal tax rate 25.0%
State tax rate 4.00%
State tax deducted on federal return? Yes
Years of contributions 26
Annual rate of return 8.00%
Combined tax rate during retirement 25.00%
Years of retirement 30
Annual rate of return during retirement 4.00%

In this example, the results show that they will not have enough accumulated investment at retirement to meet their goal of $2,800 per month. They will need $313,706.00 at retirement to meet their goal of having $2,800 per month in retirement income.

Internal notes


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