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Individual Retirement Account. A tax-advantaged way to save for retirement.
Why It Matters
An IRA is like a 401(k) you open yourself - no employer needed. It's perfect for self-employed people, those whose jobs don't offer 401(k)s, or anyone who wants to save beyond their 401(k). You get full control over investment choices (unlike 401(k)s with limited options). After maxing your 401(k) match, many advisors suggest funding an IRA next.
Key Points
- 2024 contribution limit: $7,000 ($8,000 if 50+). You can have both 401(k) AND IRA
- Traditional IRA: Tax-deductible contributions (if you qualify), pay taxes on withdrawals
- Open one at any brokerage (Fidelity, Vanguard, Schwab) in minutes - often $0 minimum
Related Terms
Common Questions
Individual Retirement Account. A tax-advantaged way to save for retirement. An IRA is like a 401(k) you open yourself - no employer needed. It's perfect for self-employed people, those whose jobs don't offer 401(k)s, or anyone who wants to save beyond their 401(k).
An IRA is like a 401(k) you open yourself - no employer needed. It's perfect for self-employed people, those whose jobs don't offer 401(k)s, or anyone who wants to save beyond their 401(k). You get full control over investment choices (unlike 401(k)s with limited options). After maxing your 401(k) match, many advisors suggest funding an IRA next.
2024 contribution limit: $7,000 ($8,000 if 50+). You can have both 401(k) AND IRA
Traditional IRA: Tax-deductible contributions (if you qualify), pay taxes on withdrawals
Open one at any brokerage (Fidelity, Vanguard, Schwab) in minutes - often $0 minimum