With $1.3 Million in My 401(k) at 59, Is It the Right Move to Convert $130k Per Year to a Roth to Avoid RMDs?

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Converting a 401(k) into a Roth IRA can be appealing for several reasons. Not only can you make qualified withdrawals from Roth accounts tax-free, but Roth accounts are also exempt from required minimum distributions (RMDs.) That can give you more flexibility when withdrawing from your account in retirement and potentially save you money on taxes.

Imagine you’re nearing retirement age and have $1.3 million in a 401(k). Converting the whole balance in one fell swoop could leave you with a massive tax liability. On the other hand, converting your 401(k) gradually over the course of a decade can reduce taxes compared to converting it all in a single transaction.

While you could start converting $130,000 annually, you may want to change that amount later on depending mostly on how the investments in your 401(k) perform.

If you’re thinking about a Roth conversion or need help planning for your RMDs, consider working with a financial advisor.

Required minimum distributions (RMDs) are the mandatory withdrawals taken from tax-deferred retirement accounts, starting at age 73.

RMDs withdrawals you’re required to take from tax-deferred retirement accounts starting at age 73 (the RMD age rises to 75 for anyone who turns 74 after Dec. 31, 2032). These withdrawals are treated as ordinary taxable income, so RMDs can push you into a higher tax bracket and increase your tax bill.

For example, if you have $1.3 million in your 401(k) at age 59 and earn 4% annually for the next 14 years, your 401(k) could grow to more than $2.77 million. When you start taking RMDs after turning 73, your first RMD would be over $104,000. If you are a single filer whose only other taxable retirement income is $25,000 in Social Security benefits, that would increase your marginal tax rate from 12% to 24% (using the 2024 tax brackets).

Avoiding RMDs isn’t the only reason to consider a conversion. You may also want to convert if you think you’ll be in a higher tax bracket after you retire. Also, Roth accounts can make bequeathing your wealth to your heirs easier, so a conversion can be a useful estate planning tool. But if you need help deciding whether a Roth conversion is suited for your situation and goals, connect with a financial advisor and talk about it.

If you convert $1.3 million in one lump sum, this would put you in the highest marginal tax bracket – 37% – and require paying over $430,000 on your next tax return. Making a series of annual $130,000 conversions over the next 10 years could reduce this tax bill significantly.

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