The Value of Tax Deferral: A Different Perspective on Roth IRAs

Journal of Financial Planning, December 1998

8 Pages Posted: 31 Jan 2009

See all articles by Jeffrey L. Kwall

Jeffrey L. Kwall

Loyola University Chicago School of Law

Date Written: December 1, 1998

Abstract

This Article explores the circumstances in which tax deferral is beneficial, and derives some basic rules that refine the prevailing view that deferring taxes saves money. It demonstrates that Roth IRAs are often more attractive than traditional tax-deferred retirement plans but for a reason that generally is not emphasized. Specifically, when the tax on monies contributed to a Roth IRA is paid out of funds invested outside the plan, the benefit derived from the tax-free accumulation often will exceed the tax on the contribution. Moreover, the benefit of the Roth IRA is magnified when contributions are invested in high growth vehicles.

Keywords: Roth IRA, tax deferral, retirement plans, IRA, time value of money

JEL Classification: K30, K34, K39

Suggested Citation

Kwall, Jeffrey L., The Value of Tax Deferral: A Different Perspective on Roth IRAs (December 1, 1998). Journal of Financial Planning, December 1998, Available at SSRN: https://ssrn.com/abstract=1335496

Jeffrey L. Kwall (Contact Author)

Loyola University Chicago School of Law ( email )

Chicago, IL 60611
United States
312-915-7152 (Phone)

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