Roth Superpowers: Unlock Hidden Retirement Opportunities
Photo by Yulia Matvienko
Extending Your Wealthspan
Retirement planning isn’t just about saving; it’s about freedom. The Mega/Super Roth strategy is an underused tool that can help high earners contribute more, reduce future taxes, and extend their wealthspan. Here’s how to use it wisely this year and next.
What if your 401(k) could do more than just save?
Most Americans rely on 401(k)s, 403(b)s, or 457s. Social Security isn’t enough. Pensions are rare. But your retirement plan can be more than a savings bucket—it can be a tax-smart wealth engine.
The Mega Backdoor Roth strategy turbocharges contributions, shelters more income, and builds a tax-free pot for the future. Many never use it because it seems complicated. Let’s simplify.
Are your clients leaving money on the table?
Before chasing hidden Roth opportunities, check the basics. Are they capturing every dollar of employer match?
401(k) contribution limits:
YearUnder 5050+ Catch-upTotal combined (excl. catch-up)2025$23,000$30,500$69,5002026$24,000$32,000$73,500
Example: Emily, 40, earns $250k and contributes up to the IRS pre-tax limit ($23,000 in 2025, $24,000 in 2026). Her employer matches 6%.
Even at the max contribution, timing and planning matter:
Stop contributing too early, and she misses some match.
Start earlier with smaller contributions, and the match compounds all year.
The right strategy ensures she fully captures her employer match and sets the stage for additional after-tax contributions toward a Mega/Super Roth.
How does a Mega/Super Roth work?
Think of it as after-tax contributions with a magic wand:
Contribute to a 401(k) (pre-tax or Roth, if allowed). Employer matches.
Add extra after-tax contributions.
Convert after-tax contributions to Roth inside the plan or roll into a Roth IRA.
Not every plan allows all steps. Ask the provider the right questions. Plan rules are the map; your clients are explorers.
Who benefits the most?
Super Savers: Early career clients who want to retire early and max out every opportunity.
Empty Nesters: Parents ready to accelerate retirement savings after raising children.
High Earners: Executives, doctors, lawyers who need to shelter more income to maintain lifestyle in retirement.
Real-World Examples
Emily – High Earner, Super Saver
Age 40, income: $250k
2025: Contributes $23,000 pre-tax + 6% match (~$15,000)
After-tax contributions: $31,500, converted to Roth
2026 Projection: Pre-tax $24,000 + match (~$15,500), after-tax contributions $34,000 converted to Roth
Impact: Total contributions exceed $69k–$73k, far above the standard Roth IRA limit. Tax-free growth is turbocharged, accelerating wealth accumulation for early retirement or future flexibility.
Nick and Jennifer – Empty Nesters
Combined income: $300k
Nick maxes pre-tax contributions: $23,000 + match $6,000 (2025)
Jennifer maxes pre-tax + after-tax: $34,500 converted to Roth
2026 Projection: John pre-tax $24,000 + match $6,000, Terry after-tax $36,500 converted to Roth
Impact: They can contribute more than double the usual Roth IRA limit, accelerating tax-free wealth for travel, retirement, or a second home.
Gary and Denise – Super Savers
Mid-30s, early retirement goal
Split contributions: half Roth, half pre-tax
After-tax contributions converted to Roth: $73,750 (2025)
2026 Projection: After-tax contributions grow to ~$77,500 combined
Impact: High-income strategy works now, while taxes are low and future growth is tax-free.
Drs. Sherry and Tome – High Earners
Late 50s, doctors, want to shield income
Tom: $34,500 after-tax conversion (2025), projected $36,000 (2026)
Sherry: $43,500 after-tax conversion (2025), projected $45,000 (2026)
Impact: Mega/Super Roth inside plans or rolling over to a Roth IRA gives flexibility, tax-free growth, and critical protection for a longer wealthspan.
How to maximize this strategy
Automatic in-plan conversions: Avoids tax on growth before Roth conversion.
IRA vs. retirement plan: Roth IRA gives more investment options, but may lose plan protections.
Separate designations: Allocate bonuses differently from regular pay to optimize contributions.
Do your homework: Ask providers the right questions, check plan updates, avoid penalties.
Why it matters for your wealthspan
Taxes today affect freedom tomorrow. Mega/Super Roth contributions:
Increase tax-free wealth
Preserve lifestyle in retirement
Reduce financial stress, leaving more energy for health, purpose, and joy
This isn’t about numbers. It’s about choice. About the years you get to live fully, without money as a leash.
Your next step
Check if your retirement plan allows after-tax contributions and Roth conversions. If it does, make a plan to capture this year’s opportunity. Start small, stay consistent, and maximize your freedom.
Your Next Step
Schedule Your Wealthspan Review™Disclaimer: The information provided in the linked resources is for educational purposes only and does not constitute investment, tax, or financial advice. Consult with a licensed professional before making any financial decisions.
