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The ability to convert from a traditional, tax-deferred IRA to a tax-free Roth IRA
is not new. However, 2010 will mark the first time the option is available to those
with adjusted gross incomes of $100,000 or more.
Effective January 1, 2010, anyone earning a taxable income will have a unique opportunity
to convert some or all of their existing tax-deferred qualified retirement accounts
to a Roth IRA. With a Roth IRA, contributions and earnings can grow tax free, and
distributions are not taxable upon withdrawal. Also, there are no required minimum
distributions at age 70 1/2.*
In addition, for 2010 conversions only, taxable liability can be spread equally
and reported over two years - in 2011 and 2012.
The question of conversion boils down to whether or not you want to pay your retirement
income tax obligation now or pay it later, as you draw on the account in the future.
So, you may be wondering... is this something I should consider? Am I a good candidate
for switching to a Roth IRA?
Careful consideration is necessary to determine whether a Roth IRA conversion is
appropriate for you.
You may want to consider converting if:
- You expect your retirement income tax bracket to be higher than your current tax
bracket. In this case, it may be better to recognize the tax liability now, rather
than later.
- You can pay the conversion taxes from a source that is outside the IRA being converted.
Using outside sources can prevent extra tax liability and penalties.
- Your traditional IRA account value has decreased due to the recent depressed markets...thereby,
potentially reducing the tax liability associated with the conversion.
- You will NOT need the converted amount for retirement income. Assets in Roth IRAs,
unlike traditional IRAs, are not subject to required minimum distributions. So,
the Roth may be better for you as an asset transfer vehicle.
- You expect the account beneficiary to be in a higher tax bracket. Remember, conversion
of assets to a Roth IRA would allow the beneficiary to inherit an account free of
income tax.*
- You desire a hedge against future - and potentially higher -- income tax rates.
In addition, having a portion of your retirement income that is tax-free may help
keep you in a lower tax bracket during retirement.
As always, we suggest you discuss your circumstances carefully with your advisor
before deciding to take advantage of the 2010 Roth IRA Conversion opportunity.
* Each conversion is subject to a five-year holding period beginning in the year
of conversion, during which non-qualified withdrawals will be taxable. Additionally,
individuals under age 59 1/2 will be assessed
a 10% penalty on this amount absent a qualified exception.
Source: Code Sec. 408a as amended by the Tax Reconciliation Act of 2005; CCH Incorporated.
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