Understanding Your Roth 401(k)

You may see a Roth option in your 401(k). But what does that actually mean for your paycheck, your taxes and your retirement savings?

Can you contribute to both pre-tax and Roth? Does your employer match go into Roth too? Do pre-tax and Roth contributions have separate limits? And what happens when catch-up contributions enter the picture?

There are a lot of questions packed into one little word: Roth.

Use this guide to find answers to some of the most common Roth 401(k) questions.

What Does Roth Mean in a 401(k)?

If your plan gives you a choice between pre-tax and Roth contributions, understanding the difference is a good place to start.

Think You Know What Roth Means? Most People Don’t →

Can I Use Both Pre-Tax and Roth?

It may not have to be an either/or decision. Learn how pre-tax and Roth contributions can work together within the same 401(k).

Can I Contribute to Both a Pre-Tax and Roth 401(k)? →

Are the Pre-Tax and Roth 401(k) Limits Combined?

If you contribute to both, you may wonder whether each gets its own annual contribution limit—or whether they share one.

Are Pre-Tax and Roth 401(k) Contribution Limits Combined? →

Does My Employer Match Go Into Roth?

You choose how your contributions go into the plan. But what about the money your employer contributes on your behalf?

Does My Employer 401(k) Match Go Into Roth? →

What Are the Roth Catch-Up Rules?

Catch-up contributions can get more complicated, especially under newer SECURE 2.0 rules.

• Are You 50 or Older and Making Big Retirement Contributions? Here’s How New Roth Rules Affect You →
• Why Do I Have to Make Roth Catch-Up Contributions in 2026? →

What Is the Super Catch-Up Contribution?

Employees ages 60 through 63 have another contribution rule to know about—and it can overlap with the Roth catch-up rules.

The Super Catch-Up Rule Is Here →

Keep Learning About Your 401(k)

Roth is just one piece of your workplace retirement plan. The more you understand your contribution choices and plan features, the better prepared you can be to make informed decisions about your retirement savings.

Explore More 401(k) School Articles →

DISCLAIMER: This information is for educational purposes only and is not intended as individualized investment, legal or tax advice. Consider consulting a qualified tax professional, attorney or financial professional regarding your specific circumstances.