How to Get More Roth Dollars into Your 401(k) in 2026

If you want to save more for retirement and like the idea of tax-free growth, there’s a smart way to get more money into your 401(k) Roth account. Called the Super Roth or Mega Backdoor Roth, this approach can help you, even if you’re limited by the usual Roth contribution rules.

How to Get More Out of Your Roth Account

Normally, there’s a cap on how much you can put into a Roth 401(k) each year. But if your employer plan allows it, you can put in extra after-tax dollars and then move (convert) those dollars into your Roth 401(k). This lets you build a much bigger Roth balance than the usual limits allow.

How does it work?

• Regular 401(k) contributions:
  In 2026, you can put up to $24,500 into your 401(k) as either pre-tax or Roth dollars (or a mix). If you’re 50 or older, you can add more: up to $8,000 extra, and even more if you’re 60 to 63.
• Total 401(k) limit:
  The total you and your employer can put into your 401(k) in 2026 is $72,000.
• After-tax contributions:
  If your plan allows, you can add after-tax dollars up to that $72,000 limit, after subtracting what you and your employer already put in.
• Convert to Roth:
  You can then move those after-tax dollars into your Roth 401(k) (this is called an in-plan Roth conversion). Once converted, any future growth is tax-free. Note that it’s best to do the conversion soon after making the after-tax contribution, so you don’t owe tax on any growth before the conversion. Many plans do this automatically.
• No impact on Roth IRA:
  This strategy doesn’t affect your ability to contribute to a Roth IRA, if you’re eligible.

What to do next with your Roth account?

1. Decide how much to put into your 401(k) as pre-tax or Roth, up to $24,500 (plus catch-up if you’re 50 plus).
2. Add what your employer contributes.
3. If you want to save more, see if your plan allows after-tax contributions, and put in extra up to the $72,000 total limit.
4. Make sure those after-tax dollars are converted to Roth as soon as possible.
5. If you’re eligible, you can still contribute to a Roth IRA.

Why consider this?

As you weigh your options, it’s good to consider why you might pursue this approach.

This is a great way to get more money growing tax-free for retirement, especially if you’re already maxing out your regular 401(k) and Roth IRA contributions. Not all plans allow this, so check with your employer or plan administrator.

We’re here to help you make the most of your retirement savings.