How does a traditional IRA differ from a Roth IRA?

The distinction between a traditional IRA and a Roth IRA primarily lies in how taxes are applied to contributions and withdrawals. For a traditional IRA, contributions may be tax-deductible in the year they are made, which allows individuals to lower their taxable income for that year. The funds then grow tax-deferred until retirement, at which point withdrawals are taxed as ordinary income.

In contrast, contributions to a Roth IRA are made with after-tax dollars, meaning they are not deductible in the year they are contributed. However, the significant advantage of a Roth IRA is that the investment grows tax-free, and qualified withdrawals during retirement are also tax-free, provided certain conditions are met.

This understanding of taxation is crucial for individuals making decisions about retirement savings and knowing how each account type can impact their overall tax situation in both the short and long term.