401k vs Roth IRA Calculator 2026

Compare Traditional 401k, Roth 401k, and Roth IRA side by side. See which wins based on your current vs retirement tax brackets.

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Based on 2026 IRS rules — Traditional vs Roth comparison

How to use 401k vs Roth IRA Calculator 2026

Open the tool. Go to 401k vs Roth IRA Calculator on Utilvia. It runs instantly in your browser.
Enter your values. Fill in the fields. Results update as you type — no signup required.
Review the output. Check totals, breakdowns, or formatted text before you copy or save.
Copy or export. Copy the result or download a file. Your inputs stay on this device.

Key features & privacy

401k vs Roth IRA Calculator 2026 is built for in-browser use on Utilvia. Work stays on this device whenever the tool runs locally — there is no account wall and no file inbox on our servers.

Runs in modern browsers with JavaScript and HTML5.
No signup required to get a result.
Zero-upload policy on local-first tools — close the tab and the working copy is gone.
Shareable, indexable URL so you can return to the same utility later.

Frequently asked questions

Should I choose a Traditional 401k or Roth 401k?

Choose Traditional if you expect a lower tax rate in retirement — the deduction today is more valuable. Choose Roth if you expect a higher rate later, want tax-free withdrawals, or want to avoid RMDs. If the rates are similar, many people split contributions for tax diversification.

What is the 401k contribution limit for 2026?

The 2026 employee elective deferral limit is $24,500 if you are under 50. Age 50+ catch-up and the SECURE 2.0 super catch-up for ages 60–63 are extra. This comparison does not cap the 401k amount so you can model any contribution.

Does Roth 401k have Required Minimum Distributions?

No. SECURE 2.0 eliminated RMDs for designated Roth 401k accounts starting in 2024. Traditional 401k accounts still require RMDs beginning at age 73. Roth IRAs have never had RMDs for the original owner.

What is the Roth IRA income limit for 2026?

For 2026, direct Roth IRA contributions phase out and end at $168,000 MAGI (single / head of household) and $252,000 (married filing jointly). Above those amounts you may need a Backdoor Roth. The annual IRA contribution limit is $7,500 under 50, or $8,600 at age 50+.

Is this calculator free?

Yes. It runs in your browser with no signup. Your numbers stay on your device.