What is a traditional IRA?

A traditional IRA, or Individual Retirement Account, is a financial account designed specifically for retirement savings. It allows individuals to contribute pre-tax income, which can lower their taxable income for the year those contributions are made. The funds in a traditional IRA grow tax-deferred until they are withdrawn during retirement, at which point they are taxed as ordinary income.

This type of account encourages long-term savings for retirement, providing tax advantages that can help individuals build a larger nest egg by allowing their investments to compound without immediate tax implications. Unlike regular savings or checking accounts, which may not offer significant tax benefits, a traditional IRA serves a specific purpose related to long-term financial planning and retirement readiness.