A Roth 401(k) is an employer-sponsored investment savings account that is funded with after-tax dollars and provides a tax advantage to investors. Investors in a Roth 401(k) enjoy tax-free growth and do not pay tax when funds are withdrawn in retirement.
Investors who think they will be in a higher tax bracket during their retirement years are in a position to consider a Roth 401(k), since they will be able to avoid paying the higher taxes upon withdrawal. A traditional 401(k) is not taxed at deposit but is at withdrawal, making it the better option for those who expect to be in a lower tax bracket upon retirement. The contribution limits to a Roth 401(k) are dependent on the age of the investor. The limits individuals are able to contribute in 2020 are $19,500 per year, with individuals over the age of 50 having the option to contribute an extra $6,500, known as a catch-up contribution, as a means to supplement any investment funds they may be lacking as they near retirement. In order for withdrawals on any contribution to be free of tax, criteria has to be met to qualify the distribution. The Roth 401(k) account has to have been held for at least five years, and the withdrawal must have been taken out on account of disability, when an account holder reaches the age of 59 ½ , or after the death of an account owner.Who Should Consider a Roth 401(k)?
Contribution Limitations
Roth 401(k) FAQs
A Roth 401(k) plan is an employer-sponsored retirement savings account that allows you to save for retirement on a tax-deferred basis. It combines the features of both traditional and Roth Individual Retirement Accounts (IRAs). Contributions are made with after-tax dollars, but future withdrawals can be taken without incurring taxes or penalties.
It depends on your individual financial situation and goals. Generally, if you anticipate being in a higher tax bracket when you retire, then it may make sense to invest in a Roth 401(k). However, if you think your tax rate will be lower when you withdraw your funds, a traditional 401(k) may be more beneficial.
You can contribute up to $19,500 for 2020 and 2021 in total contributions (employer plus employee). Those aged 50 or older can also make additional catch-up contributions of up to $6,500 per year.
Most employer plans offer a variety of investment options such as mutual funds, exchange traded funds (ETFs), stocks and bonds. Check with your employer for the specific investments that are available in their plan.
Generally, there are no withdrawal penalties when you reach age 59½ and you have held the account for at least five years. However, if you take early withdrawals before this time, taxes and/or penalties may apply. Check with your employer or tax advisor for more information.
True Tamplin is a published author, public speaker, CEO of UpDigital, and founder of Finance Strategists.
True is a Certified Educator in Personal Finance (CEPF®), author of The Handy Financial Ratios Guide, a member of the Society for Advancing Business Editing and Writing, contributes to his financial education site, Finance Strategists, and has spoken to various financial communities such as the CFA Institute, as well as university students like his Alma mater, Biola University, where he received a bachelor of science in business and data analytics.
To learn more about True, visit his personal website, view his author profile on Amazon, or check out his speaker profile on the CFA Institute website.