But help is readily at hand - in scads. Brokerages and mutual funds are falling all over each other to offer free advice. And it may not make sense if you would have to use IRA money, or sell investments at big capital gains, to pay the taxes due. So keep the Roth's wrinkles, as well as its strengths, in mind. This makes it ideal for estate planning.
Funds go to heirs without a dent from income tax but still face estate taxes.
Even if conversion does not make sense, opening a Roth alongside another IRA or retirement account might. Immediate tax deduction for contributions. Earnings are not until withdrawn. Tax-sheltered savings growth for people whose income is too high for other IRAs. Contributions taxed, withdrawals tax-free.