Roth vs. Pre-Tax: What’s the Difference?
When you save for retirement in a 403(b), 457, or 401(k), you may have the option to contribute either pre-tax or Roth (after-tax) dollars. The difference comes down to when you pay taxes.
Pre-Tax Contributions
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Tax Benefit Now – Money goes in before taxes are taken out of your paycheck.
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Reduces Current Taxable Income – This lowers the taxes you pay today.
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Taxes Later – You’ll pay income taxes on both contributions and earnings when you withdraw them in retirement.
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Best For: People who expect to be in a lower tax bracket when they retire.
Example: If you earn $40,000 and contribute $4,000 pre-tax, you’re only taxed this year as if you earned $36,000.
Roth Contributions (After-Tax)
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No Immediate Tax Break – Money goes in after taxes are taken from your paycheck.
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Tax-Free Growth – Earnings grow tax-free.
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Tax-Free Withdrawals – In retirement, qualified withdrawals are completely tax-free.
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Best For: People who expect to be in a higher tax bracket in retirement or want tax-free income later.
Example: If you contribute $4,000 Roth, you pay taxes on your full $40,000 today — but you won’t owe taxes when you take out that $4,000 (plus growth) in retirement.