Roth IRA Eligibility Calculator

For 2025, the Roth IRA contribution limit is $7,000 ($8,000 if age 50+). Your ability to contribute phases out at higher incomes: $150,000-$165,000 for single filers and $236,000-$246,000 for married filing jointly. Above these thresholds, consider a Backdoor Roth strategy.

A Backdoor Roth IRA is a legal strategy for high earners who exceed income limits. You contribute to a non-deductible traditional IRA, then convert it to a Roth IRA. This works best with no existing traditional IRA balances, since the pro-rata rule can make part of the conversion taxable.

The pro-rata rule requires you to consider ALL traditional IRA balances (including SEP and SIMPLE IRAs) when converting to Roth. The taxable portion is based on the ratio of pre-tax to after-tax money across all accounts. This can make Backdoor Roth conversions partially taxable if you hold other traditional IRA funds.

For fully tax-free and penalty-free withdrawals, you must be at least 59 1/2 AND the account must be open for at least 5 years. However, you can always withdraw your contributions (not earnings) tax-free and penalty-free at any time, since you already paid taxes on them.

Choose Roth if you expect higher taxes in retirement, want tax-free growth, or value no RMDs. Choose Traditional if you need the tax deduction now or expect lower retirement taxes. Many people benefit from having both types for tax diversification and flexibility.

MAGI is your Adjusted Gross Income (AGI) with certain deductions added back, including traditional IRA deductions, student loan interest, and foreign income exclusions. Your MAGI determines your Roth IRA contribution eligibility and phase-out range.

Yes! Roth IRA limits are completely separate from 401(k) limits. In 2025, you can contribute up to $7,000 to a Roth IRA AND up to $23,500 to a 401(k) ($31,000 if 50+). If your 401(k) offers a Roth option, those limits are also separate from the Roth IRA.