12 Mistakes to Avoid Making With Your IRA

Individual Retirement Accounts (IRAs) are critical in securing financial independence in retirement. Because of this, Brian and Bo took the opportunity to discuss what mistakes they see clients make — and how you can avoid them. This episode was inspired by an article published by Morningstar back in February called 20 IRA Mistakes to Avoid.

These mistakes are also applicable to other retirement plans as well! If you’re contributing to a 401(k) or 403(b), you’ll want to listen in and understand the 12 mistakes the Money Guys say you must avoid making.

Here’s a quick rundown of the errors Brian and Bo cover in this podcast:

Procrastinating on Making Contributions

The Morningstar article cites the fact that if you’re investing later rather than sooner, you could be losing out on growth thanks to compound interest.
Many people also think they can take their time if they’re getting an extension on their taxes. That doesn’t apply to traditional and Roth IRAs — those contributions need to be in by April 15th.

Not Understanding Tax Bracket Implications

Do you understand the retirement account options you have and the impact each can have on your taxable income? Brian and Bo explain when you should invest in a Roth IRA over a traditional IRA, and which retirement vehicles you should prioritize.

Not Understanding Roth Conversions

If you’re looking to retire early, you’ll be able to plan your tax strategy in advance. Once you retire, you don’t have any earned income, and converting to a Roth IRA might prove to be a good decision as there are no required minimum distributions.

Being Retirement Rich and Liquidity Poor

Having a 7-figure portfolio and nothing in reserves won’t do you any good in the present should something go wrong. Plus, if you retire early and can’t start withdrawing until you’re 59 ½ years old, you’ll need money to tide you over.

Ignoring Spousal Contributions

If you or your spouse work while the other doesn’t, you can still take advantage of spousal contributions. The non-working spouse can use the other spouse’s earned income to make contributions for themselves.

Buying an Annuity

Purchasing an annuity within a retirement plan is usually a bad idea as you’re doubling up on tax shelters. Make sure buying an annuity actually makes sense for your situation.

Treating Your IRA as a Piggy Bank

Say you do leave your job – that technically means you have a distributable event. That doesn’t mean you should make the most of it and buy a new pool or TV. Ignore the temptation to withdraw funds and roll your money over.

Not Updating Beneficiary Designations

Have you divorced or remarried? Then you should update your beneficiary designations – you wouldn’t want your ex-spouse inheriting your money, would you?

Want to grab more tips and understand the mistakes you need to avoid with your IRA? Be sure to tune in to this episode of The Money Guy Show for advice on how to better manage your IRA!

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