IRAs
While we can’t promise either, we can help you get started in the right direction with an Individual Retirement Account (IRA). An IRA can also mean great tax advantages so you can put and keep more money in your pocket.
To help you save for retirement, we offer several types of IRA accounts. While each has specific advantages, the main benefit of an IRA is that you might be able to avoid paying taxes on the interest you earn until you withdraw your money. This helps your savings grow faster. You may also save money on taxes, too. Because by the time you’re ready to spend the money in your account (at retirement), you may be in a lower tax bracket than when you invested the money.
Whether you’re just collecting your first paycheck or nearly ready to begin enjoying your retirement, we can help.
Our first piece of advice: only invest in an IRA if you are sure you will not need to withdraw your money early (in most cases, early means within 5 years of opening your account or before you are 59 ½) because the IRS penalties can be expensive.
Facts About Individual Retirement Accounts
| Traditional IRA | Roth IRA | Education IRA/Coverdell ESA | |
|---|---|---|---|
Designed for |
People who expect to be in a lower tax bracket once they retire |
People who expect to be in the same or higher tax bracket when they retire |
People who want to help pay for the educational expenses of someone under the age of 18 |
Eligibility |
You must be still collecting a paycheck |
Any age, and still earning a paycheck |
Anyone can contribute; the beneficiary must be under the age of 18 |
Tax features |
Contributions are made with pre-tax dollars; your account grows tax-deferred |
Contributions are made with after-tax dollars; your account grows tax-deferred; if you qualify, withdrawals may be tax free too |
Your account grows tax-free; no tax on earnings used for eligible education expenses; may be used to pay for elementary or secondary school |
Annual Contribution Limit |
$6,000; $7,000 if over 50 |
$6,000; $7,000 if over 50 |
Up to $2,000, depending on your annual earnings |
Other considerations |
|
Can be used for estate planning and offers the benefit of tax-free income to your heirs
|
Beneficiary must use funds by age 30; account can be transferred to relative |
Features
Smart
Pay less in taxes, save more for you
Free
No fees to start investing
Simple
You can open an account with as little at $1,000
Flexible
We have several types to choose from