Mega Backdoor Roth Calculator

Calculate after-tax 401(k) contribution capacity for a mega backdoor Roth strategy.

After-Tax 401(k) Capacity

Total Annual Contribution

IRS Max Used

Guide

How it works

Use this calculator to estimate additional Roth space available through after-tax 401(k) contributions.

What this calculator does

The mega backdoor Roth calculator estimates remaining capacity under the total defined contribution plan limit. It subtracts employee pre-tax and employer contributions from the IRS total limit.

It uses:

  • annual salary
  • employee pre-tax contribution
  • employer contribution
  • IRS total contribution limit

Mega Backdoor Roth Formula

Capacity = IRS Total Limit - Employee Contribution - Employer Contribution

Where:

  • IRS Total Limit = annual defined contribution limit
  • Employee Contribution = pre-tax or Roth employee deferral
  • Employer Contribution = match or profit-sharing
  • Capacity = after-tax contribution room

Example calculation

If:

  • IRS total limit = 70,000
  • Employee contribution = 23,500
  • Employer contribution = 10,000
  • Used contributions = 33,500

Then:

  • Capacity = 70,000 - 33,500
  • Capacity = 36,500
  • Total contribution can reach 70,000
  • IRS max used = 100%

The mega backdoor Roth capacity is 36,500.

What is mega backdoor Roth?

Mega backdoor Roth is a strategy using after-tax 401(k) contributions and Roth conversion when a plan allows it. It can create additional Roth savings beyond normal IRA limits.

Why mega backdoor Roth matters

  • can add large Roth contribution capacity
  • uses workplace plan rules
  • helps high savers shelter more growth
  • requires careful limit tracking

When to use this calculator

  • checking after-tax 401(k) capacity
  • planning high annual savings
  • reviewing employer contribution impact
  • comparing Roth strategies

Common mistakes

  • assuming every plan allows it
  • forgetting employer contributions count
  • exceeding the total plan limit
  • ignoring conversion timing

Mega backdoor Roth vs backdoor Roth

Backdoor Roth uses IRA contribution rules. Mega backdoor Roth uses after-tax 401(k) contribution space.

The mega version can involve much larger amounts.

FAQs

What is mega backdoor Roth?

It is a strategy using after-tax 401(k) contributions and Roth conversion when permitted by the plan.

How do you calculate mega backdoor Roth capacity?

Subtract employee and employer contributions from the total IRS plan limit.

What is a good mega backdoor Roth amount?

A good amount uses available plan capacity without exceeding IRS limits.

What is the difference between mega backdoor Roth and backdoor Roth?

Mega uses a 401(k). Backdoor Roth uses IRA rules.

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