How to open an IRA

Follow these steps to help you make your decisions and open your new IRA.

Step 1
Decide which IRA suits you best

Start simple, with your age and income. Then compare the IRA rules and tax benefits.

Step 2
Choose an "all in one" fund or customize your portfolio

Keep it simple with an "all in one" fund that does some of the work for you, or customize your own portfolio.

Step 3
Open your IRA online quickly & easily

Move money directly from your bank to your new Vanguard IRA® electronically. You'll just need your bank account and routing numbers (found on your bank checks).

Name beneficiaries for your IRA. (We'll send instructions once your IRA is open.)

See how you can avoid the annual Account Service Fee.

Open an IRA today

Where the money can come from

Direct contribution

Make a direct contribution by check or electronic transfer from your bank.

401k rollover

Move an old employer plan account into a Vanguard IRA.

Find out if a 401(k) rollover is right for you

Transfer an existing IRA

Move an IRA currently at another financial institution to Vanguard.

Transfer an existing IRA to Vanguard

Explore professional advice

We offer expert help at the low cost you'd expect from Vanguard.

Compare advice options

Ready to open an IRA?

New to Vanguard?

Open an account

Already a Vanguard client? Log in and open an IRA.

Ready to open an IRA?

New to Vanguard?

Open an account

Already a Vanguard client? Log in and open an IRA.

There are important factors to consider when rolling over assets to an IRA. These factors include, but are not limited to, investment options in each type of account, fees and expenses, available services, potential withdrawal penalties, protection from creditors and legal judgments, required minimum distributions, and tax consequences of rolling over employer stock to an IRA. An automatic investment plan does not ensure a profit or protect against a loss.

All investing is subject to risk, including the possible loss of the money you invest. Be aware that fluctuations in the financial markets and other factors may cause declines in the value of your account.

Vanguard's advice services are provided by Vanguard Advisers, Inc. ("VAI"), a registered investment advisor, or by Vanguard National Trust Company ("VNTC"), a federally chartered, limited-purpose trust company.

The services provided to clients will vary based upon the service selected, including management, fees, eligibility, and access to an advisor. Find VAI's Form CRS and each program's advisory brochure here for an overview.

VAI and VNTC are subsidiaries of The Vanguard Group, Inc., and affiliates of Vanguard Marketing Corporation. Neither VAI, VNTC, nor its affiliates guarantee profits or protection from losses.