Number: RL34397 Title: Traditional and Roth Individual Retirement Accounts (IRAs): A Primer Authors: John J. Topoleski, Domestic Social Policy Division Abstract: This report describes the primary features of two common retirement savings accounts that are available to individuals. Both traditional and Roth IRAs offer tax incentives to encourage individuals to save for retirement. Although the accounts have many features in common, they differ in some very important aspects. This report explains the eligibility requirements, contribution limits, tax deductibility of contributions, and rules for withdrawing funds from the accounts. Pages: 15 Date: October 8, 2008