The biggest mistake people make with IRAs is thinking they are all the same.
They are not.
With a Roth you pay taxes now, but every dollar you pull in retirement is tax free.
With a Traditional you skip taxes today, but you pay later when you withdraw.
If you are just starting out, Roth is the clear choice.
If you are sitting on large pre tax savings, you need a conversion strategy or you will bleed taxes for decades.
The real play is not just opening an account.
It is coordinating Roth, Traditional, and conversions to maximize your net worth and minimize your future tax bill.
