10/30/2026
A Roth conversion moves money from one account to another. So why does everyone talk about it like it's so complicated? Because of one detail: the tax bill.
A Roth conversion moves money from a traditional IRA or 401(k) into a Roth account. That's the whole transaction.
The complication is what happens at tax time. When you convert, the money you move is treated as taxable income in that year. Convert $50,000, and it's like adding $50,000 to your income on that return.
So why would anyone do it? Because money in a Roth generally grows and can be withdrawn tax-free in retirement, as long as you follow the rules. You're choosing to pay the tax now, at a rate you know, instead of later at a rate you don't.
The real question isn't "is a Roth conversion good?" It's "what would my tax bill be this year versus what I might owe later, and can I cover the bill comfortably?"
That answer is different for everyone, which is exactly why it's worth sitting down with actual numbers before deciding.
I'll be talking through exactly this at our next seminar. If it's full when you look, ask about the waiting list - it usually means another one is coming. Follow along to get notifications for all our free seminars and educational events.
in retirement