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Insights

Number 5 on a yellow plate representing the Roth IRA 5-year rule

Do You Have to Keep Money in a Roth IRA for 5 Years?

Think your Roth IRA locks your money up for 5 years? It doesn't — at least not all of it. Here's what the 5-year rule actually controls.

Stressed professional overwhelmed by sticky notes and paperwork at desk, representing the confusion of managing too many individual retirement accounts

How Many Individual Retirement Accounts Can You Have?

You can legally open unlimited IRAs — but should you? Here's how many individual retirement accounts actually make sense for your retirement plan.

Wooden retirement sign pointing toward a beach, symbolizing the choice between a 401(k) and an IRA

Is a 401(k) the Same as an Individual Retirement Account?

Is a 401(k) the same as an IRA? Not quite — and the difference could cost you. See which one actually fits your situation.

Icon illustrating an IRA withdrawal, showing a cash withdrawal symbol next to the word 'Withdrawal' on a dark teal background

How Much Can I Withdraw From My IRA While on Social Security?

There's no limit on IRA withdrawals while on Social Security — but one mistake could make 85% of your benefit taxable. Here's how to avoid it.

Blue paper torn open to reveal the word 'disadvantage,' illustrating the hidden disadvantages of an IRA

What Are the Disadvantages of an IRA?

Taxable distributions, a 10% early withdrawal penalty, and rising Medicare premiums can catch retirees off guard. A fiduciary firm in Lee's Summit, MO breaks down the trade-offs before you contribute another dollar.

Businessman stacking wooden blocks spelling 'RISK' beside falling dominoes, illustrating how risky a Roth IRA really is

How Risky Is a Roth IRA?

A Roth IRA isn't risky — your investments are. Learn what actually drives Roth IRA risk, why avoiding stocks can backfire, and how to build the right mix for you.

Chalkboard drawing of a stock market chart rising then sharply crashing downward, illustrating a market downturn and its effect on retirement accounts like an IRA.

Can I Lose My IRA If the Market Crashes?

Market drops feel personal when it's your retirement on the line. See how diversification and asset allocation shape what actually happens to your IRA.

Woman celebrating her 65th birthday with a white frosted cake topped with number 65 candles, representing the age when many retirees ask about IRA taxes

Do I Have to Pay Taxes on My IRA After Age 65?

Still paying taxes on your IRA after 65? Here's exactly how Traditional and Roth IRAs are taxed in retirement — and the RMD rule most retirees miss.

Person withdrawing cash from an ATM, representing an IRA withdrawal above the required minimum distribution (RMD)

What Happens If You Take More Than Your RMD?

Withdrawing extra from your IRA won't trigger a penalty — but it could bump you into a higher tax bracket. Here's the RMD rule most retirees miss.