United States — Retirement Accounts

Pre-tax (sometimes deductible) contributions, tax-deferred investing, and taxable withdrawals in retirement; early withdrawals can trigger penalties.

After-tax contributions with potential tax-free growth and tax-free qualified withdrawals; great for long-term compounding if you’re eligible.

Employer-funded IRA for self-employed/small businesses with higher contribution potential and relatively simple administration.

Small-business retirement plan allowing employee payroll deferrals plus required employer contributions; typically easier than a 401(k).

An IRA that holds assets moved from an old employer plan (like a 401(k)), often to consolidate accounts and expand investment choices.

A beneficiary IRA with special distribution timelines and tax rules (varies by relationship and current law).

Employer-sponsored plan with payroll contributions (often matched). Traditional is pre-tax; Roth is after-tax—both have rules on access and withdrawals.

401(k)-style plan for many schools and nonprofits; similar tax benefits and limits, with investments often in mutual funds and/or annuities.

Deferred comp plan (common in government). Some versions allow penalty-free access after leaving the employer, but rules differ by plan type.

Self-employed 401(k) for business owners with no employees (except spouse), allowing both “employee” and “employer” contribution components.

Employer-only contributions that can vary year to year; commonly paired with a 401(k) and may include vesting schedules.

Pension plan promising a formula-based retirement benefit; employer funds and manages investment risk (less common but still important).