That's always been one I can't figure out.. How can your tax rate ever be higher when you're retired? Seems like a Roth 401k exposes you to way more taxation now when you're making 6 figures, than the potential taxes on a straight 401k when you retire.

Thanks and all good info--for me I am looking at potential higher taxes in the out years primarily due to my many tax breaks that turn age 18 over the next 15 years--between them and the untaxed military income I've stayed in the 15% tax bracket. But that's all about to change along with having to pay the state taxman as well...so appreciate everyone's insight. Also believe that ROTH will go to my kids tax free as well if I don't get to spend it first.

Depends on how long you have until retirement. Its more than just tax rates, it also includes taxes on the gains. If you have 30+ years to go, $10,000 now may grow to $100,000 at retirement. Better to pay income tax on the 10 large now and keep the $90,000 in gains later tax free.

If you only have a few years until retirement, the math probably works better in favor of a traditional 401k/IRA.

Of course everyones situation is different so do your own diligence/consult with an advisor etc.

This from the DAL MEC,

"There are approximately 220 pilots in the hiring pool at the moment that have conditional job offers. These offers are valid for 18 months."

Tax rates were in the high 70's% during carter era. If we get all one party gov in future standby! Govt debt thru $17 trillion gonna be some interest due soon enough.

I'm pondering quality of life living in Atlanta. Anyone know how much 717 growth is planned and left yet for Atlanta? Based on quality of life factors of only 1)schedule control 2)ability to hold a line, and 3) seniority bidding reserve, I rank the aircraft as follows: 1) MD88 2) 717 3) 320 4) 737. Any opinions on this? Any current plug info? Just trying to make an educated choice.

Painfully inadequately and not enough to eat on.

Precisely. The younger you are, the more attractive the tax advantages are from a ROTH since all the gains are tax free upon withdrawal as well.

Think of it this way, over the last thirty years, and all the bases, Mecca is the only survivor. If you don't want to commute and you can tolerate grits, there is only one answer.

Thanks. I have in-laws in Atlanta, so Atlanta is pretty much my destination. I'm trying to get some distinction among the aircraft mentioned (MD88, 717, 320, 737) based on near-term (5 yr) seniority progression only. Trip QOL and pay are separate factors.