LifeArch Tax-Free Calculator

Estimate federal taxes in retirement and explore a multi-year Roth conversion ladder. Simplified model; use it as a planning conversation starter.

1) Profile + Buckets

High-school version: This is like setting a “speed limit” for taxes. We try to convert enough to reach the limit—without crossing it.
Tip: Start with Auto-fill. If you want a smaller conversion, switch to Manual.
Using built-in 2026 IRS federal brackets + standard deduction
No custom brackets needed. If laws change, update the plugin.
Used for the ladder + RMD projection.
Default reflects current IRS guidance; adjust if rules change or for your situation.
Included in provisional income for Social Security taxation.
Flat estimate; states differ.

2) Roth Conversion Ladder

How many years to simulate conversions + taxes.
“Fill bracket” estimates how much conversion fits before the next bracket.
Example: choose 12% to “convert up to the top of the 12% bracket”.

Use Instructions

  1. Enter your bucket balances (Traditional, Roth, Taxable) and income inputs (Social Security, pension/other).
  2. Set your spending need (annual). The calculator estimates the “spending gap” after SS/pension and assumes it is filled from Traditional (simplified).
  3. Choose a conversion strategy:
    • Manual: use a fixed annual conversion amount.
    • Fill bracket: choose a target bracket (often 12% or 22%). The tool estimates conversion room up to that bracket’s cap.
  4. Review the ladder table: it shows estimated withdrawals, conversions, taxable income, and taxes year by year.
  5. Use the “Tax cliff alerts” to spot years where you’re very close to the next bracket.

Compliance-Safe Disclaimer

This tool is for general educational purposes only and is not tax, legal, or investment advice. Results are estimates based on simplified assumptions and may not reflect your exact tax situation, future law changes, credits, deductions, AMT, NIIT, Medicare IRMAA, state rules, or complete IRS worksheets. Social Security taxation and RMD calculations are simplified. Before acting, consult a qualified tax professional and financial advisor. “The Power of Zero” is a book by David McKnight; this plugin is an independent educational implementation inspired by public concepts and standard IRS frameworks.