Roth IRA Growth Calculator
*Results assume contributions are made at the beginning of each year and returns compound annually.
Understanding Your Roth IRA Growth Potential
A Roth IRA is one of the most powerful retirement savings vehicles available to Americans. Unlike a traditional IRA or 401(k), contributions to a Roth IRA are made with after-tax dollars. This means you don't get an immediate tax break, but your money grows tax-free, and qualified withdrawals in retirement are 100% tax-free.
Using a Roth IRA Calculator allows investors to visualize the compound growth effect over decades. Even small contributions, when given enough time to grow, can result in a substantial tax-free nest egg.
How This Calculator Works
This tool projects the future value of your Roth IRA based on several key variables:
- Starting Balance: The amount already in your account.
- Annual Contribution: How much you plan to add each year. For 2024, the limit is generally $7,000 for those under 50 and $8,000 for those 50 and older.
- Time Horizon: Calculated by subtracting your current age from your expected retirement age.
- Rate of Return: The estimated annual percentage growth of your investments.
The Power of Tax-Free Compounding
The primary advantage of a Roth IRA is the mathematical magic of compound interest combined with tax efficiency. In a taxable brokerage account, you might pay capital gains tax every year or upon selling assets. In a Roth IRA, those taxes are eliminated.
For example, if you contribute the maximum amount annually from age 25 to 65, your total contributions might be around $280,000 (depending on limit changes). However, with an average 7% return, your account value could exceed $1.5 million. The $1.2 million in growth is yours to keep, tax-free.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the 2024 contribution limit?
The total contribution limit for all of your traditional and Roth IRAs is $7,000 for 2024 ($8,000 if you're age 50 or older).
Are there income limits for Roth IRAs?
Yes. For 2024, single filers must have a Modified Adjusted Gross Income (MAGI) under $161,000 to contribute (eligibility phases out starting at $146,000). Married couples filing jointly must have a MAGI under $240,000 (phase-out starts at $230,000).
Can I withdraw my money early?
You can withdraw your contributions at any time, tax-free and penalty-free. However, withdrawing earnings before age 59½ typically incurs income tax and a 10% penalty, unless an exception applies.