How Roth IRA Works
A Roth IRA allows you to contribute after-tax money and withdraw it tax-free in retirement. Unlike traditional IRAs, you pay taxes upfront but enjoy tax-free growth and withdrawals later. This makes Roth IRAs ideal for those who expect to be in a higher tax bracket in retirement.
2026 Roth IRA Contribution Limits
- Under age 50: $7,000 annual contribution limit
- Age 50 or older: $8,000 annual contribution limit (catch-up)
- Income phase-out (single): Begins at $146,000, ends at $161,000
- Income phase-out (married filing jointly): Begins at $230,000, ends at $240,000
Roth IRA Advantages
- Tax-free withdrawals: All contributions and earnings can be withdrawn tax-free in retirement
- No RMDs: No required minimum distributions during your lifetime
- Contributions accessible: You can withdraw contributions (not earnings) anytime without penalty
- Estate planning: Pass tax-free assets to heirs