Free tool · your numbers stay on your device
Roth vs traditional, in real dollars
The tax question, answered with arithmetic. Type in the same contribution for both accounts. The tool grows each side at your assumed rate, takes the tax out where it belongs, and shows which leaves more after tax.
Free consultation. No obligation to enroll.
- 2026 IRA limits built in
- Same dollars in, side by side
- Everything runs on your device
- Results are estimates for education
Age sets your 2026 IRA limit.
2026 IRA limit for your age: $7,500.
You pick the rate. Nobody knows the real one ahead of time.
Your marginal rate this year, as a percent.
The rate you expect to pay when you take the money out.
- Roth, after tax
- $552,596
- Traditional, after tax
- $552,596
Roth
- Tax paid up front, each year$1,650
- Deposited per year$5,850
- Value after tax$552,596
Traditional
- Deposited per year$7,500
- Tax paid at withdrawal$155,860
- Value after tax$552,596
At equal tax rates the two tie. That is the whole lesson: when the rate now matches the rate later, Roth and traditional leave you the same amount.
The math, in plain English
Traditional side: your full contribution goes in before tax. It grows for the number of years you set. At the end, tax comes out at your withdrawal rate.
Roth side: tax comes out first, at your current rate. The smaller deposit grows the same way. No tax comes out at the end.
When both tax rates match, the two sides tie exactly. That is the core insight: the choice is mostly a bet on whether your rate now is higher or lower than your rate later.
Contributions are capped at the 2026 IRA limit for your age: $7,500 under 50, $8,600 at 50 and older. Growth compounds yearly in this tool.
Christian BrinkleyNC Life & Health · Greensboro, NC
The numbers raised a question? Bring it to me
A calculator shows you the arithmetic. A free 20-minute call puts it next to your real tax picture, your timeline, and what the answer means for you.
Free consultation in person or by phone. It’s me who answers. Calls and appointments 9am to 5pm, Monday through Saturday, Eastern time.
Questions go directly to Christian Brinkley in Greensboro, NC at (919) 408-6671. They are not sold to other agents.