401(k)/403(b) In-Service Rollovers & Mega-Backdoor Roth Conversions

In-Service Rollover

An in-service rollover involves transferring funds from a qualified, employer-sponsored retirement plan, such as a 401(k)/403(b), to an IRA while you are still employed at the company. The main advantage of completing an in-service rollover is to expand your investment options and unlock more flexibility with your retirement account. Depending on your retirement plan, costs, investment options, creditor protections, and other benefits vary and should be evaluated based on individual circumstances.

Note:

  • Generally, to avoid penalties, you must reach age 591/2 before completing an in-service rollover.
  • Some plans allow earlier rollovers under specific conditions (hardships or rolling after-tax funds).
  • Be sure you check with your employer to see if your plan allows in-service withdrawals.

Mega-Backdoor Roth Conversion

A mega-backdoor Roth conversion is a strategy that allows individuals to contribute large amounts of money to a Roth IRA or Roth 401(k) by utilizing after-tax contributions to a 401(k) plan and then converting those funds into Roth accounts.

In most 401(k) plans, you are limited to contributing $24,500 for 2026. Some plans allow after-tax contributions beyond the regular pre-tax limits. Depending on your age and plan specifications, the total 401(k) contribution limit can be as high as a whopping $83,250 in 2026!

High-income earners who exceed Roth IRA income or contribution limits can use this strategy to get more money into Roth accounts. Here are some advantages to your funds being in a Roth account:

  1. Tax-free growth
  2. Tax-free qualified withdrawals
  3. No RMDs for Roth IRAs
  4. Estate Planning Benefits

*Availability of this strategy depends on the rules of an individual’s retirement plan and personal circumstances. Not all plans permit after-tax contributions or in-service distributions. 

Important Information:

  • Employer match contributions cannot be included in a Mega-Backdoor Roth Conversion.
  • Not all 401(k)/403(b) plans offer the option for after-tax contributions or in-service withdrawals. Reach out to your plan administrator to understand the specific rules and limitations that apply to your 401(k).

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Disclosures: Information contained herein is intended for informational, illustrative and/or educational use only and not designed to be a recommendation for any specific investment product, strategy, plan feature or other purpose nor shall it be construed to be the provision of individualized investment, tax or legal advice. Endowment Wealth Management, Inc. (“EWM”) is not soliciting or recommending any action based on this material. This is neither an offer nor a solicitation to buy/or sell securities in any state or jurisdiction where EWM is not registered, or notice filed and does not qualify for an exemption from such registration and notice filing requirements. Prior to making any investment or financial decisions, an investor should seek individualized advice from a personal financial, legal, tax and other professional advisors that consider all of the particular facts and circumstances of the investor’s own situation. All investments involve risk and potential loss of capital and, unless otherwise stated, are not insured or guaranteed.

While the content herein has been obtained from sources that we consider reliable, we do not represent that the information is accurate, complete, or current and it may be relied upon as such. Reliance upon any information in this material is at the sole discretion of the reader. Content is subject to change without notice.

Tax rules governing retirement plans and Roth conversions are complex and subject to change. Potential tax benefits and consequences depend on individual circumstances. Individuals should consult qualified tax and financial professionals before implementing any rollover or conversion strategy.

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