Roth vs Traditional 401(k) Calculator
AdvancedCompare after-tax outcomes for Roth and Traditional 401(k) contributions.
- 100% Free
- No signup
- Private & secure
- Instant results
- On your device
Private on your device
Your information stays on your device and is not uploaded.
Learn more about this calculator▾
Enter contribution amount, years to grow, expected return, and current versus retirement tax rates to compare projected after-tax balances for Roth and Traditional 401(k) choices.
How to use this tool
Enter annual contribution, years, return, current and retirement federal tax rates, optional state tax and employer match, and choose comparison mode. Review after-tax values and which option projects higher spendable wealth.
Worked example
Example: $10,000/year for 25 years at 7% with 22% tax now and 18% in retirement, plus a 50% employer match, often still hinges on whether your retirement tax rate rises or falls — match boosts both sides.
How it works
Compares after-tax retirement outcomes for Traditional and Roth 401(k) contributions. Optional employer match (percent of contribution) is added to both paths and taxed as pretax at withdrawal. State tax is added to federal rates. Equal take-home mode reduces the Roth contribution by today’s combined tax; equal net-pay mode contributes the same amount to both accounts.
Limitations
Results are estimates for educational purposes and are not financial or tax advice. Actual costs, rates, and rules vary.
Privacy and file handling
Your data stays on your device and is not uploaded.
FAQ
Frequently asked questions
Is Roth vs Traditional 401(k) Calculator free?
Yes. It is free to use and you do not need to sign in or create an account.
Is my data private?
See the privacy note on this page. Many tools run on your device; some heavier file tools may use secure temporary processing when required.
Can I use Roth vs Traditional 401(k) Calculator on mobile?
Yes. Open this page on your phone or tablet, enter your inputs, and use the on-screen controls.
Related comparisons
Learn how formats and terms differ before you convert or calculate.
Part of these workflows
This tool is one step in a longer job. Jump straight to your step or open the full workflow guide.
Related pages
- Investment calculators — compare finance tools and read FAQs
- Retirement planning — compare finance tools and read FAQs
- Retirement account calculators — compare finance tools and read FAQs
- Check retirement contribution readiness — step-by-step workflow
- Browse all free online tools on Utilnivo
- Explore more finance tools on Utilnivo
- 401(k) Calculator — Project 401(k) balance with employer match and compound growth.
- 401(k) Contribution Limit Calculator — Check employee deferral room against IRS 401(k) limits.
Page last reviewed: