Before you get started
Please be aware that you'll owe taxes on any pre-tax traditional IRA contributions you convert.
Planning for retirement
How to convert to a Roth IRA online
You can convert a Vanguard traditional IRA to a Vanguard Roth IRA in a few easy steps.
3 minute read
If you already have a Vanguard Roth IRA
The steps you follow depend on what types of accounts you have and the types of investments you want to convert.
Convert only Vanguard mutual funds from your traditional IRA
Begin the exchange process online (logon required)
Convert investments from your traditional IRA brokerage account
If you hold ETFs (exchange-traded funds), individual stocks and bonds, or other investments in a Vanguard traditional IRA brokerage account …
Start at your balances and holdings (logon required)
Then locate the traditional IRA you want to convert and click Convert to Roth IRA.
IS A ROTH IRA CONVERSION RIGHT FOR YOU?
Understand the benefits of a Roth conversion
If you want to open a new Roth IRA
You need to have a Vanguard Roth IRA already set up in order to receive converted assets. So there are a few extra steps.
Begin the process to open an account online
When asked to select your funding method, choose Exchange and then follow the remaining instructions.
If there's more than one Vanguard mutual fund in your traditional IRA, you can only exchange one fund when you first open the Roth IRA. Once the account is set up, you can exchange the remaining funds by following the instructions in the section above.
Is your traditional IRA at another company?
Move it to Vanguard first and then return to the steps above.
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Open your IRA today
All investing is subject to risk, including the possible loss of the money you invest.
The amount you convert to a Roth IRA isn't subject to the 10% penalty that's charged on traditional IRA withdrawals taken before you reach age 59½.
You may wish to consult a tax advisor about your situation.