The Roth conversion window most retirees miss

For many retirees, income drops sharply the year after work ends and stays low until Social Security and required withdrawals begin. Those years are a window.

Why the window matters

Converting part of a traditional IRA to a Roth in a low-income year means paying tax at a lower rate now instead of a higher rate later. The converted money then grows tax-free.

A plan sets how much to convert each year so you stay inside a chosen bracket and avoid Medicare premium surcharges two years later.

What to check first

Cash to pay the tax from outside the IRA, your expected bracket in retirement and any health insurance credits that depend on income.