Roth IRA Calculator: Growth Projection & 2026 Contribution Limits
A Roth IRA grows tax-free, you pay tax on contributions now, but withdrawals in retirement (after 59½ and a 5-year holding period) owe nothing. For 2026, the contribution limit is $7,500 ($8,600 if you're 50+, using the $1,100 catch-up). Enter your numbers to project your balance, and check whether your income keeps you eligible.
Growth is a projection, not a guarantee, real markets vary year to year. Roth IRA eligibility phases out with income; check the note below your result.
2026 IRA contribution limit ($7,500, $8,600 with catch-up) and Roth phase-out ranges per IRS inflation adjustments. Not tax or investment advice, verify your specific eligibility with a tax professional.
How to use this tool
- Enter your current age and the age you plan to start withdrawing (59½ minimum for tax-free withdrawals).
- Add your current Roth IRA balance and planned annual contribution: 2026 limit is $7,500 ($8,600 if you're 50+).
- Enter your expected annual return, many use 6-8% as a long-term index-fund average.
- Optionally add your MAGI and filing status to check if your income keeps you eligible to contribute.
Frequently asked questions
What's the 2026 Roth IRA contribution limit?
$7,500 for anyone under 50, or $8,600 if you're 50 or older (using the $1,100 catch-up contribution), combined across all your traditional and Roth IRAs, not per account.
What income makes me ineligible for a Roth IRA?
For 2026, eligibility phases out between $153,000-$168,000 MAGI for single filers, and $242,000-$252,000 for married filing jointly. Above the top of the range, you can't contribute directly, many high earners instead use a 'backdoor Roth' (contribute to a traditional IRA, then convert).
Roth IRA vs traditional IRA, which is better?
Roth: pay tax now, withdraw tax-free later, generally better if you expect to be in the same or higher tax bracket in retirement, or you're young with decades of growth ahead. Traditional: get a tax deduction now, pay tax on withdrawals, often better if you expect a lower tax bracket in retirement.
Can I withdraw Roth IRA contributions early without penalty?
Yes, you can withdraw your original contributions (not earnings) at any time, tax and penalty free, since you already paid tax on them. Withdrawing earnings before 59½ and before the account is 5 years old generally triggers tax plus a 10% penalty, with some exceptions (first home, education).