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).