Open a Roth IRA with a brokerage, bank, or robo-advisor
Confirm you are eligible based on income and tax filing status
Link your bank account for contributions
Deposit money up to the annual contribution limit
Choose investments such as index funds, ETFs, mutual funds, stocks, or bonds
Set an asset allocation based on your age, risk tolerance, and goals
Buy your selected investments inside the Roth IRA
Reinvest dividends and capital gains
Review your portfolio regularly
Rebalance when your allocation drifts
Keep contributions within IRS limits
Avoid early withdrawals unless you understand the rules and penalties
Consider automating contributions and investing
Keep the account invested for long-term growth