Thursday, October 2, 2014

Open a Roth IRA Today! And Not For the Reason You Think

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This article is not about Roth IRA's in detail.  It's about one little, under appreciated rule about Roth IRA's.  Many of the requirements for avoiding taxes and penalties on Roth IRA withdrawals involve a five year rule.  You have to have a Roth IRA for at least five years in order to take advantage of many exceptions.

The weird thing is that the rule isn't based on individual Roth IRA accounts, it's based on the first time YOU opened ANY Roth IRA account.  So, when you're starting out investing, throw a little money into a Roth IRA, just to get the clock started.  It doesn't have to be much, and, to be honest, it will probably not actually matter in the long run, but, if it does, you'll be happy you did it.

Obviously this should not be interpreted as investment advice, or an argument as to what IRA is better for you.  It's just a little helpful hint that has a small chance of saving you some grief someday.

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