Which type of account is often used for tax-free growth?

A Roth IRA is specifically designed to provide tax-free growth for your investments. Contributions to a Roth IRA are made with after-tax dollars, which means that the money you put into the account has already been taxed. As a result, any earnings on the investments within the Roth IRA, as long as they remain in the account until you meet certain conditions (such as reaching age 59½ and having the account for at least five years), can grow and be withdrawn tax-free. This feature makes the Roth IRA an attractive option for long-term savings and retirement planning, as individuals can enjoy their investment returns without worrying about future tax implications.

In contrast, a savings account typically offers minimal interest and is subject to taxes on the interest earned each year. A brokerage account is used for trading stocks and other assets, but any capital gains or dividends received may be subject to taxation. A certificate of deposit generally provides fixed interest over a set period, but the interest earned is also taxable. Thus, in terms of tax-free growth, a Roth IRA stands out as the most favorable option.