Why the Roth Rules  If you're confused about which type of
retirement account to choose, here's the quick and easy (and
probably smartest) strategy: Put your money in a Roth IRA.
Compared with an employer-sponsored retirement account -- such
as a 401(k) or 403(b) -- or a traditional IRA, the Roth is by
far more flexible and likely will lead to more money in
retirement.  The only exception: If your employer matches
contributions to your work-sponsored plan, then it's probably
best to take advantage of that free money. But contribute only
up to the point that contributions are matched; after that, send
your retirement money to a Roth.  The exception to the
exception: In most situations, an employee has to stay with a
company for a number of years before those matching
contributions will "vest" -- that is, really become the property
of the employee. If you don't plan to stay with your employer
long enough for the matches to vest, then go straight to the
Roth.  What makes a Roth so superior? Let's start with the