what is a roth ira
A Roth IRA (Individual Retirement Arrangement) is a retirement plan under US law that is generally not taxed, provided certain conditions are met.The tax law of the United States allows a tax reduction on a limited amount of saving for retirement. Direct contributions to a Roth IRA (principal) may be withdrawn tax and penalty-free at any time. 2  Earnings may be withdrawn tax and penalty-free after 5 years if the condition of age 59Â½ (or other qualifying condition) is also met.