Saving for retirement is important for your financial future. Consider a Roth IRA because it offers five benefits.
What is a Roth IRA?
A Roth IRA lets you contribute each year up to the limits set by the IRS, with catch-up contributions available if you are age 50 or older.
You receive no federal income tax deduction for contributions, but both contributions and earnings grow tax-free within the account.
You may withdraw qualified distributions tax- and penalty-free if you are at least 59½ and the account has been open for five tax years. Roth IRAs also have no required minimum distributions during the original owner's lifetime, which can be advantageous for long-term planning.
For information on family-focused IRA options, see IRAs and Multi-Generational IRAs.
The 5 benefits of the Roth IRA
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Gain tax-free income during retirement.
You will pay no federal income tax on qualified Roth IRA distributions of contributions and earnings. That is a major advantage if you expect to be in a higher tax bracket in retirement.
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Receive investment and withdrawal flexibility.
Unlike some retirement accounts that require distributions or restrict early access, a Roth IRA gives you more flexibility.
Early withdrawal exceptions
- First-time home purchase
- Postsecondary education expenses
- Permanent disability
- Unreimbursed medical expenses above applicable AGI thresholds
- Health insurance premiums during periods of unemployment
- Certain tax obligations
Withdrawals of Roth contributions (not earnings) can generally be made at any time without taxes or penalties.
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Contribute after traditional age limits for some plans.
Roth IRAs allow contributions as long as you have eligible earned income and meet the IRS income rules, even when other account types may restrict contributions based on age or distribution status.
See related account options in Tax Deductible Retirement Plans.
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Assist your heirs.
Designated beneficiaries can receive inherited Roth IRA assets, often with tax advantages compared with other inherited retirement accounts. For estate-planning approaches that involve stretching retirement assets, see Stretch IRAs Estate Planning.
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Gain a back-door entry as a higher earner.
Income limits can restrict direct Roth IRA contributions for high earners, but a conversion strategy from a traditional IRA may provide access; consult a tax professional before converting.
A Roth IRA provides five key benefits. Consider them carefully as you choose the best retirement strategy for your needs.
To review how a Roth IRA fits your situation, talk to an agent.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who can contribute to a Roth IRA?
Anyone with eligible earned income who meets the IRS income limits can contribute; contribution limits and phase-outs are set by the IRS.
What is the five-year rule for Roth IRAs?
To take tax-free qualified distributions of earnings, the Roth IRA must generally have been open for at least five tax years and the owner must meet a qualifying condition such as being age 59½.
Can I withdraw my contributions early?
Yes—contributions (but not earnings) can typically be withdrawn at any time tax- and penalty-free; earnings withdrawn early may be subject to taxes and penalties unless an exception applies.
Do beneficiaries pay taxes on inherited Roth IRAs?
Beneficiaries may receive tax-free distributions of qualified Roth assets, but distribution timing and rules depend on beneficiary type and current tax rules.