Week 14: Should I contribute to a traditional or Roth IRA?

When it comes to saving for retirement, few questions spark more confusion than which investment vehicle to choose. Both accounts offer powerful tax advantages—but they work in very different ways. Choosing the right one can impact not just your tax bill today, but also how much flexibility and income you’ll have later in retirement.

The good news? You don’t need to be a financial expert to make a smart choice. In this post, we’ll break down how Traditional and Roth IRAs work, who benefits most from each, and how to align your decision with your income, tax bracket, and future goals.

Let's dive in and help you pick the best fit for your financial future!

Quick Comparison Table:

Feature

Traditional IRA

Roth IRA

Tax Benefit Now

Yes

No

Tax-Free Withdrawals

No

Yes (if qualified)

Income Limits

For deductibility

For eligibility

RMDs (Required Min.)

Yes (at age 73)

No (while you’re alive)

Of course you can do both — split contributions between the two (if eligible), especially if you're unsure where your future tax rate will land. Adding taxable brokerage investing also adds flexibility to boot.

Want a personalized withdrawal game plan? Let’s talk.

I provide comprehensive fee-only financial planning and investment management for clients in the St. Louis area and nationwide virtually.

If you’re not a subscriber already, hit that button below to receive new tactics each week to help you grow income, reduce expenses, and save more now!

Reply

or to participate.