Friday, August 14, 2009

Plan now for Roth IRA conversions in 2010

A unique opportunity looms large in 2010 to convert from traditional IRA's or other qualified pension plans into Roth IRA's (Photo: Sen. William Roth - R Delaware).

Why is 2010 so great?
  • The $100,000 income cap will be gone. Anyone can convert.
  • Ordinary income recognized from the conversion can be deferred to 2011 and 2012 (1/2 in each year).

Why do I want a Roth IRA instead of a traditional IRA or pension plan?

  • Although you pay taxes now, distributions are tax FREE after five years and you reach the age of 59 1/2.
  • You are not required to take "required minimum distributions" during your lifetime.

When does it make sense to do this?

  • You have a number of years before retirement so that income can compound tax-free.
  • You anticipate being taxed at a higher rate in the future than you are now.
  • You have the resources to pay the taxes due on the conversion from non-retirement assets.

Savage Esplin & Radmall can help you decide whether this will be a good choice for you.

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