The tax cost, calculated the way a conversion is actually taxed.
A conversion that spans a bracket boundary isn't taxed at one flat rate. See the real cost band by band, and whether converting now beats waiting given your assumed future tax rate.
2026 brackets · Illustrative estimate · Not tax advice
Read next
Roth Conversion Strategy: When and How to Convert a Traditional IRA or 401(k) to Roth
A Roth conversion moves money from a pre-tax account to Roth — you pay income tax now, then the account grows and withdraws tax-free forever. When it makes sense, how to calculate the optimal conversion amount, the Medicare IRMAA trap, and how business owners use income control to create conversion windows.
Tax strategy & retirementBackdoor Roth IRA: How High-Income Earners Get Money Into a Roth
High earners above the Roth IRA income limit can contribute via the backdoor — contribute nondeductibly to a traditional IRA, then immediately convert to Roth. The pro-rata trap, how to avoid it, and the mega backdoor Roth for up to $46,500/year.
Tax strategy & retirementSolo 401(k), SEP-IRA, and SIMPLE IRA: Which Retirement Plan Is Right for Your Business?
The three main retirement plans for self-employed business owners compared — contribution limits, who qualifies, deadline rules, and when each one makes sense. With 2025 limits.