Considering traditional IRAs hold more than $3 trillion in assets (yes, trillion with a T, according to the Investment Company Institute), there's little doubt this tax-advantaged account is a favorite among retirement savers. Despite its popularity, the IRA can be quite confusing.
We get lots of questions about IRAs: Who can open one? Where and how can you open one? When can you withdraw the money? What are the tax implications of owning an IRA? And the list continues. Below you will find articles and columns that address the basics and the intricate details of IRAs -- basically everything you need to know. If you still have questions, though, ask columnist Kimberly Lankford.
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How to get started and where to put your money.
IRA Rules for Kids
If your children have earned income from a job, opening an IRA is a good way to jump start their savings.
Our team of tax experts answers your questions about taxes and IRAs.
First-time homebuyers can avoid the 10% early-withdrawal penalty only if they use the IRA money to pay qualified acquisition costs.
Your income will dictate whether you can convert your account. Plus, rules for deducting IRA losses.
Roll 401(k) Funds Directly to an IRA
Avoid penalties and taxes by making a direct transfer to your new IRA administrator rather than having the check made out to you.
Dealing with Required IRA Distributions
Once you turn 70½, you have to start withdrawing from your account -- or face penalties.
Transfer IRA Distributions to Charity
People age 70½ and older can give up to $100,000 per year from their IRA directly to a charity and avoid paying income taxes on the money.
Stretch Your IRA to Last Generations
If you want your IRA tax shelter to last an extra generation or two, your heirs need to follow some very complex rules.
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Take Charge of Retirement Spending With This Simple StrategyTo make sure you're in control of retirement spending, rather than the other way around, allocate funds to just three purposes: income, protection and legacy.
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Here's How To Get Organized And Work For YourselfWhether you’re looking for a side gig or planning to start your own business, it has never been easier to strike out on your own. Here is our guide to navigating working for yourself.
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457 Plan Contribution Limits for 2025Retirement plans There are higher 457 plan contribution limits for state and local government workers in 2025 than in 2024.
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Medicare Basics: 11 Things You Need to KnowMedicare There's Medicare Part A, Part B, Part D, Medigap plans, Medicare Advantage plans and so on. We sort out the confusion about signing up for Medicare — and much more.
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The Seven Worst Assets to Leave Your Kids or Grandkidsinheritance Leaving these assets to your loved ones may be more trouble than it’s worth. Here's how to avoid adding to their grief after you're gone.
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SEP IRA Contribution Limits for 2024 and 2025SEP IRA A good option for small business owners, SEP IRAs allow individual annual contributions of as much as $69,000 in 2024 and $70,000 in 2025..
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Roth IRA Contribution Limits for 2024 and 2025Roth IRAs Roth IRA contribution limits have gone up. Here's what you need to know.
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SIMPLE IRA Contribution Limits for 2024 and 2025simple IRA The SIMPLE IRA contribution limit increased by $500 for 2025. Workers at small businesses can contribute up to $16,500 or $20,000 if 50 or over and $21,750 if 60-63.
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457 Contribution Limits for 2024
retirement plans State and local government workers can contribute more to their 457 plans in 2024 than in 2023.
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Roth 401(k) Contribution Limits for 2025retirement plans The Roth 401(k) contribution limit for 2024 is increasing, and workers who are 50 and older can save even more.
