Skip to main content
money

Weatherhead's Mary Sasmaz explains the benefits of Roth conversions

Media | May 13, 2026 | Story by: Editorial Staff

I’m 57 and I want to retire at 60. I have two pensions that’ll pay $7.5K a month and a $400K 401(k). I’m considering a Roth conversion—smart move? 

MarketWatch: Mary Sasmaz, assistant professor at Weatherhead School of Management, said Roth conversions hinge largely on comparing current and future tax rates. She noted conversions may be more attractive if retirees won’t need the money immediately or plan to leave it to heirs, and recommended running “what-if” scenarios with a tax professional.