Maximize your IRA Contribution for 2008

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There are two types or IRAs, Roth and traditional.  Roth IRAs are great for new investments since the money grows tax free.   Of course if you exceed the income limitations then a traditional IRA is the next best option. The traditional IRA is used when rolling a 401K or 403b plan from your employer. I recommend setting up automatic monthly withdrawals from your checking account for discipline. The table below details the difference between the Roth and traditional IRA and the contribution limits.

 2008 Roth IRA Traditional IRA
Maximum contribution (Catch up provision for individuals over 50)  $5000
$416.66 / month
($6000 if over 50)
  $5000
$416.66 / month
($6000 if over 50)
“Phase-out” income Limits. Full contribution allowed at lower limit. Prorated contribution between the limits.  Single AGI
$101,000 to $116,000. Married AGI
$159,000 to $169,000.
 No income limits to contribute.
(Tax deductability is
single AGI $53,000. Married AGI $83,000)
Tax Consequences  After tax money used. Money grows tax free. Never taxed again!  Pre-tax money used. Money grows tax free. Taxed upon withdrawal.
Comment  Recommended for new investments due to tax advantages  Practical account to rollover retirement accounts

 The contribution limit for IRAs increased to $5000 in 2008 ($6000 if you are 50 years old).  In future years the contribution limit will be indexed to inflation.

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