Finance & Economics / Personal Finance

Backdoor Roth IRA Calculator

2024 limit: $7,000 ($8,000 if age 50+)

Include all Traditional, SEP, and SIMPLE IRAs. Enter 0 for "clean" backdoor Roth.

The portion of your existing IRA that was deductible (pre-tax). Usually equals the entire balance unless you've made non-deductible contributions before.

Federal tax brackets: 10%, 12%, 22%, 24%, 32%, 35%, 37%

What is a Backdoor Roth IRA?

A Backdoor Roth IRA is a legal strategy that allows high-income earners (who exceed Roth IRA income limits) to contribute to a Roth IRA indirectly.

The Process:
  1. Make a non-deductible contribution to a Traditional IRA (no income limits)
  2. Immediately convert the Traditional IRA to a Roth IRA
  3. Report both steps on IRS Form 8606
Key Rules:
  • Pro-Rata Rule: If you have existing pre-tax IRA money, part of your conversion will be taxable
  • No Income Limits: Anyone can do a Roth conversion regardless of income
  • Step Transaction Doctrine: Wait a few days between contribution and conversion to avoid IRS scrutiny (though no official waiting period exists)
  • Form 8606: Must be filed to track non-deductible basis and report conversions
Avoiding the Pro-Rata Rule:
  • Roll pre-tax IRA money into your employer's 401(k) before doing backdoor Roth
  • Convert all Traditional IRA assets to Roth (and pay taxes) to "clean up" your IRAs
  • Only do backdoor Roth if you have $0 in Traditional/SEP/SIMPLE IRAs

Disclaimer: This calculator provides estimates. Consult a tax professional before executing a backdoor Roth IRA strategy.