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What tax implications does a mega backdoor Roth conversion strategy have?
AI accountant’s answer:
A mega backdoor Roth conversion strategy allows you to contribute additional funds to a Roth IRA, allowing for tax-free growth and withdrawals in retirement. Here are some tax implications to consider:
1. After-tax 401(k) contributions: To use the mega backdoor Roth conversion strategy, you'll typically make after-tax contributions to your 401(k) plan, up to the annual IRS limit for total 401(k) contributions (for 2022, this limit is $61,000, or $67,500 if you're age 50 or older).
2. Taxable conversion: When you convert the after-tax 401(k) funds to a Roth IRA, you may owe taxes on any earnings that have accumulated on those after-tax contributions. The taxable amount will be the difference between the amount you contributed after-tax and the total value of your account when you make the conversion.
3. No immediate tax deduction: While traditional 401(k) contributions are tax-deductible, after-tax contributions are not. This means you won't receive a tax deduction for the funds you contribute as part of the mega backdoor Roth strategy.
4. Non-deductible IRA contributions: If you do not have access to a 401(k) plan that allows after-tax contributions and in-service withdrawals, you may consider contributing to a non-deductible traditional IRA and then converting those funds to a Roth IRA. Keep in mind that you'll still owe taxes on any gains in the traditional IRA when you make the conversion.
5. Tax-free growth and withdrawals: Once the funds are in your Roth IRA, they'll grow tax-free, and any qualified withdrawals made during retirement will be tax-free as long as you meet the conditions for a qualified distribution (at least 5 years after your first Roth IRA contribution and age 59 1/2 or older).
Note that the mega backdoor Roth strategy may not be suitable for everyone, and it's important to consider your individual tax situation and long-term financial goals before pursuing this strategy.
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