Retirement

Traditional IRA

An individual retirement account where contributions may be tax-deductible and growth is tax-deferred until withdrawal.

What does traditional ira mean?

A traditional IRA gives the tax break now: contributions can lower this year’s taxable income, and the money grows untaxed until you withdraw it, when it’s taxed as ordinary income. Required minimum distributions begin at 73.

Put it to use

Traditional IRA Calculator How can contributing to a regular IRA help you in your retirement? Roth IRA vs. Traditional IRA Calculator Use this calculator to determine which IRA may be right for you.

Traditional IRA — frequently asked

Is a Traditional IRA contribution tax-deductible?

Often, but not always. If neither you nor your spouse has a workplace retirement plan, the full contribution is deductible. If you do, the deduction phases out above certain income limits, though you can still contribute non-deductibly.

When do I pay tax on a Traditional IRA?

When you withdraw. Contributions and growth are tax-deferred, and distributions in retirement are taxed as ordinary income. Withdrawals before age 59½ usually add a 10% penalty, and RMDs begin at 73.

All glossary terms