401(k) vs Roth 401(k)
401(k) vs Roth 401(k) — Pre-Tax or Post-Tax?
Most 401(k) plans now offer both Traditional (pre-tax) and Roth (post-tax) options. Choosing wrong costs six figures over a career.
Verdict
Pre-tax for high earners expecting lower retirement income. Roth for younger workers (under 30) and anyone expecting higher future income. If unsure, split 50/50.
Side-by-side comparison
Who should pick 401(k) Pre-Tax
High earners in 32%+ bracket. Late-career workers within 10 years of retirement.
Who should pick 401(k) Roth
Workers under 35. Anyone expecting promotions / income growth. Anyone uncertain about future tax-law changes.
Related tools
Traditional vs Roth 401(k)Detailed comparison.401(k) CalculatorRun actual numbers.Federal Tax CalculatorFind your bracket.
Disclaimer. Comparison numbers depend on your tax bracket, state, and time horizon. Educational only — not personalized financial advice. See our Financial Disclaimer.
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