Calculators

Traditional IRA vs. Taxable Savings

This calculator helps to determine whether investing in a traditional IRA or in a taxable savings account is appropriate for you given your personal financial information, rate of return, and years until retirement.

When you are deciding where to save each year, you have the choice, depending on your eligibility, of saving to an IRA, or saving to a taxable account. If you save to an IRA, your savings may be deductible. Growth on IRA savings will not be taxed until retirement, while growth on taxable saving will be taxed each year. This tool will allow you to consider all of these factors in making your decision on where to save.

After you've entered your information below, click the "Calculate" button to determine which option is best for you.

Input - Personal Information

What will your tax filing status be?

Did you live with your spouse at any time during the year?

Yes No

Do you participate in an employer-sponsored retirement plan¹?

Yes No

Does your spouse participate in an employer-sponsored retirement plan¹?

Yes No

What is your estimated Modified Adjusted Gross Income (MAGI)²?

What percentage of your contribution is deductible?

How much will you contribute each year?
Planned annual contribution amount
Use maximum annual contributions

What is your current income tax rate?

Federal

State

What is your expected income tax rate at retirement?

What is your date of birth?

At what age do you plan to retire?

What average rate of return do you expect to earn on your IRA investment³?

¹Employer-sponsored retirement plans include 401(k) and 403(b) plans.
²Your MAGI is your adjusted gross income as figured on your federal income tax return, with certain deductions and exclusions added back.
³Use an average rate of return that's appropriate for the mix of investments in your portfolio.

Calculate

The calculators provide hypothetical examples and are not intended to represent past or future performance of a specific investment which cannot be predicted or guaranteed, or to provide specific advice to any individual. Rates of return will vary over time. Those investments offering a higher rate of return also involve a higher degree of risk.