Roth IRA income limit: $150,000 (single), $236,000 (married filing jointly). Phase-out: $150K–$165K single. Above $165K: use Backdoor Roth.
The Backdoor Roth Strategy
If income exceeds Roth limits: (1) Make a non-deductible Traditional IRA contribution ($7,000), (2) Immediately convert to Roth IRA. Since you contributed after-tax money, conversion is tax-free — if you have no other pre-tax IRA balances (watch the pro-rata rule).
Frequently Asked Questions
Roth wins when your retirement tax rate exceeds your current rate. Traditional wins when your current rate exceeds your retirement rate. If rates are equal, they produce identical after-tax results — but Roth has added advantages: no RMDs, tax-free heirs, and flexibility.
Yes. IRA and 401(k) limits are separate. However, if you have a workplace 401(k), Traditional IRA deductibility phases out at $79,000–$89,000 (single, 2025). Even if non-deductible, a Traditional IRA contribution can be used as a backdoor Roth.
⚠️ USA only. Income limits apply to Roth contributions. Consult a tax professional.
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