15 Common Roth Conversion and Savings Mistakes to Avoid
When it comes to retirement savings, it’s highly likely that you’ve considered saving or converting your existing savings into a Roth IRA or 401(k). You may have received recommendations from friends, family members, advisors, banks, or colleagues, and you’ve probably come across articles highlighting the benefits of Roth accounts.
All retirement savings accounts are designed to help you save money on taxes, and Roth accounts can be a particularly great way to reduce your tax burden. Unlike traditional 401(k)s or IRAs, where your savings contributions are tax deferred, with a Roth, you don’t pay taxes on the money you save.
While Roth accounts can be fantastic, they are not always the best option for everyone, and significant mistakes can be made. Here are 15 mistakes to avoid when it comes to Roth accounts:
1. Not Taking Advantage of Both IRA and Employer-Sponsored Retirement Plans
There are two main types of retirement savings accounts: IRAs (traditional and Roth) and employer-sponsored retirement accounts like 401(k)s (traditional and Roth), SEPs, 403(b)s, etc. If you have the cash flow, it’s recommended to save into both a Roth IRA and your employer-sponsored retirement plan.
2. Not Maximizing Contributions
The contribution limit for IRAs (Roth and traditional) for 2024 is $7,000, with an additional $1,000 catch-up contribution if you are 50 or older. The 401(k) annual contribution limit is $23,000 for 2024, with a $7,500 catch-up contribution if you are 50 or older. It’s important to take full advantage of these contribution limits.
3. Overlooking the Backdoor Roth Strategy
Even if you exceed the income limit for direct Roth contributions, it shouldn’t discourage you from taking advantage of Roth accounts. You can save into a traditional IRA and then convert those funds into a Roth IRA, commonly known as a “backdoor” Roth savings strategy.
4. Not Following Conversion Rules
When converting money from a traditional retirement savings vehicle to a Roth, it’s crucial to follow the rules for the conversion. There are specific steps you need to take to ensure a smooth and compliant conversion.
5. Withdrawing Converted Funds Too Early
The beauty of a Roth account is that the funds grow tax-free. However, it’s important to know that converted Roth funds must remain in your Roth IRA for at least 5 years before withdrawal. Withdrawing the money before the 5-year mark will result in a 10% early withdrawal penalty.
6. Exceeding Contribution Limits
As mentioned earlier, there are limits to how much you can contribute to a Roth account. If you exceed these limits, the IRS will charge you a 6% penalty tax on the excess contributions. It’s essential to stay within the contribution limits to avoid unnecessary penalties.
7. Not Considering Conversion Taxes
When you convert funds to a Roth account, the converted amount is treated as income and taxed accordingly. It’s crucial to consider how much tax you can afford to pay in any given year to avoid any financial strain.
8. Timing the Roth Conversion
Deciding when to do Roth conversions can be tricky. The timing depends on various factors, such as your current tax bracket, future tax expectations, and financial goals. It’s advisable to work with a professional to determine the optimal timing for your conversions.
9. Not Having a Conversion Strategy
Instead of doing a one-time large conversion, many people find it beneficial to spread out their conversions over multiple years. Having a multi-year conversion strategy can help minimize the tax impact and optimize the benefits of Roth accounts.
10. Not Seeking Professional Guidance
When it comes to saving, converting, and optimizing Roth accounts, it’s normal to have questions and uncertainties. Working with a professional can provide reassurance and help you make informed decisions that align with your specific financial situation and goals.
Remember, Roth accounts can be powerful tools for retirement savings, but they require careful planning and consideration. By avoiding these common mistakes and seeking professional guidance, you can maximize the benefits of Roth accounts and secure a more financially stable retirement.
