Should You Convert Your TSP to Roth?

Should You Convert Your TSP to Roth?

Most federal employees hear plenty of opinions about Roth TSP conversions — but very little clear explanation.

Some say Roth is “always better.”
Others say converting is a mistake.
Many aren’t sure what actually applies to their situation.

This guide helps you understand the decision, not tell you what to do.

What This Guide Covers

This is a plain-English walkthrough of the tradeoffs behind a Roth TSP conversion, written specifically for federal employees.

You’ll learn:

• What a Roth TSP conversion actually is (without jargon)
• The one question that matters most: taxes now vs. taxes later
• When a conversion might make sense — and when it might not
• How early retirement access rules affect the decision
• Why rushing into a conversion can backfire

Who This Is For

This guide is for federal employees at any career stage who want to be better informed before making — or not making — a Roth TSP conversion.

That includes:

• Early- and mid-career employees
• Those approaching retirement
• Federal law enforcement officers who may retire earlier
• Anyone who wants to talk to a tax professional without going in blind

No finance background required.

What This Guide Is Not

This guide does not tell you what to do.

It gives you a framework so you can:

• Ask better questions
• Understand the answers you’re given
• Avoid relying on “water-cooler advice” or internet hype

Bottom Line

A Roth TSP conversion is optional.
Doing nothing is also a decision.

This guide helps you slow down, understand the tradeoffs, and move forward with confidence — whether you convert now, later, or not at all.