Roth IRA vs. traditional IRA

An IRA can be an effective retirement tool. There are two basic types of individual retirement accounts (IRA): the Roth IRA and the traditional IRA. Use this tool to determine which IRA may be right for you. Please note that this calculator should not be used for Roth 401(k) comparisons.

Information and interactive calculators are made available to you as self-help tools for your independent use and are not intended to provide investment advice. We cannot and do not guarantee their applicability or accuracy in regards to your individual circumstances. All examples are hypothetical and are for illustrative purposes. We encourage you to seek personalized advice from qualified professionals regarding all personal finance issues.

The S&P 500 is an unmanaged index of 500 widely held stocks. It is not possible to invest directly in an index. The performance mentioned does not include fees and charges which would reduce an investor’s returns. While interest on municipal bonds is generally exempt from federal income tax, it may be subject to the federal alternative minimum tax, or state or local taxes. Profits and losses on federally tax-exempt bonds may be subject to capital gains tax treatment. Fixed income risks include, but are not limited to, changes in interest rates, liquidity, credit quality, volatility, and duration.

Calculators are provided by an independent third party and are being made available to you as self-help tools for your independent use and are not intended to provide investment advice or be representative of actual results. We do not guarantee their applicability or accuracy in regards to your individual circumstances. The determinations made by these calculators should not be construed as guarantees or projections. Moreover, the reasonableness of certain information may change over time because of changes in tax law, investment trends and your personal circumstances. The information contained here is based on current law and has been obtained from sources believed to be reliable, but we do not guarantee its accuracy. Investment results can vary considerably depending on the type of securities involved, general market conditions and other factors. It is important that you periodically review and update your plans. Raymond James does not provide tax or legal advice. You should contact your tax or legal advisor concerning your particular situation. All investments carry a degree of risk, and past performance is not a guarantee of future results.

Roth IRA owners must be 59 1/2 or older and have held the IRA for five years before tax-free withdrawals are permitted. Any withdrawals from Traditional IRAs may be subject to income taxes, and prior to age 59 1/2 a 10% federal penalty tax and state penalty taxes may apply to the taxable amount.