
Mutual funds for every objective
Mutual funds come in a wide variety of styles to meet the varying needs of investors.
Mutual funds come in a wide variety of styles to meet the varying needs of investors.
04/29/2025
RETIREMENT PLANNING
The primary difference between traditional and Roth IRAs is how and when your money is taxed.
The money contributed to either IRA type can grow tax deferred, allowing for the potential of faster compounding.
When saving for retirement, many people consider individual retirement accounts (IRAs). The two types of IRAs are traditional and Roth—the primary difference between them is how and when your money is taxed.
An IRA is a retirement vehicle created by the federal government to encourage individuals to save. The money contributed to IRAs can grow tax deferred. This can be a powerful advantage to you. Because if you don’t pay taxes on this growth while it’s in the IRA, your money may compound faster than it would if it were taxed immediately.
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The short answer is no. The biggest difference between an IRA and a mutual fund is that an IRA is a type of account that can be funded with an investment like a mutual fund, an annuity or any number of other investment vehicles.
It usually depends on the institution that you’re opening the IRA with as to what type of investment it can be funded with. For example, a mutual fund company will usually offer mutual funds to invest your IRA in, an insurance company will offer annuities, a bank will offer CDs and a brokerage firm may offer stocks and bonds.
As with any investment decision, deciding which type of vehicle to use to fund your IRA will depend on your objectives, your risk tolerance and your investing timeline. Just keep in mind: The sooner you start your IRA, the longer your assets may grow to help you meet your retirement goals.
Let’s take a look at this handy chart for details on the differences of each type of IRA.
Traditional IRA | Roth IRA | |
Who is eligible? | Anyone who has earned income. | Anyone who has earned income, but the contribution limit amount is based on their modified adjusted gross income (MAGI). For single filers, this would include anyone with MAGI under $146,000 for 2024 and under $150,000 for 2025. Contributions would be reduced on a sliding scale between $146,000 and $161,000 for 2024 and $150,000 and $165,000 for 2025. Married couples filing jointly must have MAGI between $230,000 and $240,000 in 2024 and between $236,000 and $246,000 in 2025 to qualify for a Roth IRA, with contributions reduced on a sliding scale. |
What is the maximum amount that can be contributed each year? | $7,000 (or $8,000 if 50 or over) in 2024 and 2025. | $7,000 (or $8,000 if 50 or over) in 2024 and 2025. |
What are the tax advantages? |
You may be able to deduct your contributions from income taxes. And any growth in the account is not taxable until you withdraw it. |
Any growth in the account may be tax-free if certain conditions are met. |
Is the contribution deductible from taxes? |
Yes, unless you or your spouse participate in an employer-sponsored retirement plan and your MAGI exceeds certain dollar amounts (see IRS contributions and deduction limits). |
No. |
What happens when I make withdrawals? |
Withdrawals made before age 59½ may be subject to a 10% federal tax penalty unless certain conditions exist, in addition to ordinary income taxes. |
Contributions are withdrawn first without tax or penalty. Withdrawals of earnings are income tax- and penalty-free if the IRA has been held for at least five years and you are at least age 59½, disabled, making a first time home purchase ($10,000 lifetime limit) or paid to your beneficiary. |
Am I required to take distributions? |
Yes, you must begin taking distributions once you turn age 73 or 75 if born 1960 or later. |
No distributions are required for you, but your beneficiary will be subject to distribution requirements. |
If it makes sense in your scenario, you could contribute to both types of IRAs to take advantage of the unique benefits each account offers. The annual contribution limit can be split between your IRAs. And if you currently have a traditional IRA and decide a Roth IRA would be a better fit, you could convert your traditional IRA account into a Roth. Keep in mind part or all the distribution may be subject to income tax.
The good news is you have options. Learn more about Roth IRA conversions.
The information provided is not intended as a source for tax, legal or accounting advice. Please consult with a legal and/or tax professional for specific information regarding your individual situation.
Take advantage of tax contribution limits and open a Thrivent Mutual Funds IRA today. Choose an account, select mutual funds that match your retirement goals and investing style, and open your account.