Should you contribute pre-tax (Traditional) or after-tax (Roth)? Enter your numbers and we'll show you the paycheck impact today, which rate comparison favors which option, and the after-tax value at retirement.
Your situation
Fill in your numbers — we'll show you the paycheck impact and long-term outcome side by side
2025 limit: $23,500 under 50 / $31,000 age 50+
Will you be in a higher or lower bracket in retirement? This is the key question that drives the recommendation.
Paycheck impact — today
Traditional reduces your taxable income now so you pay less tax today. Roth doesn't — you pay tax now and withdraw completely tax-free later.
Enter your income and contribution above
Tax rate comparison — the core question
Pay taxes now at your current rate (Roth) or later at your retirement rate (Traditional)? Whichever rate is lower is where you want to pay.
Enter your income to see your current marginal rate
After-tax value at retirement
What you actually get to spend. Traditional is taxed on every withdrawal — Roth is not. Enter your expected retirement rate above to see the full comparison.
Enter your details above to see the long-term comparison
Account balance over time
Traditional grows larger because there's no tax on the contribution — but you'll owe tax on every dollar you withdraw. Roth balance is entirely yours.
Cadence Wealth Partners, LLC · Concord, NC Estimates only — not tax or investment advice. Actual outcomes will vary. Please review with your advisor and CPA before making contribution decisions.