Kushner’s private equity firm is the largest stakeholder in an Israeli financial institution that invests in Israeli defense companies.
SUCCESS
Chip City shuts every store, and gift cards are in limbo
Launched by childhood friends Teddy Gailas and Peter Phillips out of the Queens borough of New York in 2017, Chip City Cookies was one of the early breakaway stars of the “cookie wars” that swept the country as a food craze 10 years ago.
The chain made a name for itself through its large, gooey cookies with original rotating flavors dropped on social media prior to being available in stores. It expanded quickly to a peak of nearly 50 locations across states including New York, New Jersey, Connecticut, Massachusetts, Texas, Virginia, Florida, and Illinois.
But amid the shifting wave of food trends and an economy in which many are watching their spending on artisanal versions of common treats more carefully, the cookie craze appears at a major ebb.
Chip City Cookies abruptly closes all remaining stores
Crumbl, which is another breakaway star and major name in this space, slashed the number of its physical stores by 16% from 2024 to 2025. The 20-year-old New York State cookie bakery The Cookie Factory closed its last remaining brick-and-mortar stores to focus on selling exclusively at supermarkets in August 2026.
While observant fans noticed that Chip City Cookies had closed some stores in states like Connecticut earlier in September, chain president Nicolas Baizan just took to social media to say that it is permanently shuttering its last 22 remaining locations at the end of business hours on Oct. 2.
Read Now: Viral cookie chain leaves key market, closes all stores
“Despite extensive efforts to stabilize our business in the face of significant macro-economic headwinds, we have made the very difficult decision to close all of our Chip City locations,” Chip City Cookies said in its statement. “We are grateful to our dedicated employees and loyal customers who have supported us for the past 10 years.”
Chip City opened during the “cookie wars” phase in 2017 by Teddy Gailas and Peter Phillips.Chip City
‘Consumers are spending less and their preferences are evolving:’ Chip City Cookies on abrupt closures
Bazin went on to name “a challenging environment” and “consumers [who…] are spending less” as the main factor that “negatively impacted our sales.”
The abrupt collapse of what was once a breakout star in the food world backed by New York restaurateur and Shake Shack founder Danny Meyer sent shockwaves through the industry as well as fans (part of the chain’s success came from its cult following of diehard fans).
Locals near the location on Columbus Avenue in Manhattan’s Upper West Side also reported seeing police officers from the NYPD Evidence Collection Team going inside the shop on the morning of Oct. 2.
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While Chip City previously told customers in stores that were announced as closing earlier in the month that any pre-purchased gift cards could be used at other locations throughout October, the abrupt shutdown makes it highly unlikely that these will have any use.
The collapse also comes just several days after founder Peter Phillips sued the company. According to the lawsuit, Phillips was to remain with the company until December after Meyer’s Enlightened Hospitality Investments took a majority stake in the brand in March 2026.
Phillips’ suit goes on to claim that the new majority owners pressured him to surrender web domains and sign third-party borrower authorization documents on five small-business loans in order for this agreement to be honored.
Related: Popular chicken chain exits market, closes more locations
Fashion retailer comes back after closing all its stores
Several well-known fashion brands have disappeared from physical retail in recent years, leaving customers with online shopping and retail partners as their primary ways to shop.
Now, one British fashion brand is making an unexpected return to stand-alone stores after shutting down its remaining locations more than two years ago.
Founded in 1988, Ted Baker is a British premium clothing and accessories brand for men and women known for its distinctive prints, tailoring, and traditional British aesthetic. Ted Baker is owned by Authentic Brands Group.
Ted Baker reopens its first stand-alone store
Ted Baker is returning to stand-alone physical retail with the opening of a new London store, marking the first such location since the closure of its previous standalone stores in 2024.
The new 1,400-square-foot store is set to open on Oct. 2, 2026, at 155 Fenchurch Street in London, U.K.
This location will operate under the name Ted Baker Tailored and will launch in partnership with Suit Direct, the brand’s formalwear provider. The store will focus on menswear and tailoring, offering services such as one-to-one appointments and suit alterations.
“This opening is an important milestone for Ted Baker in its home market and a reaffirmation of the brand’s British heritage and the enduring relevance of the category where it all began,” said Authentic Brands Group President of Lifestyle EMEAI Henry Stupp in a company announcement.
“We’re building on the qualities that have long distinguished Ted Baker, its approach to tailoring, craftsmanship and distinctly British point of view, while evolving the brand for today’s consumer. London is the natural place to begin, and we see this opening as a defining step in the brand’s next chapter.”
The opening gives Ted Baker a stand-alone storefront in its home market again after more than two years.
Ted Baker’s phased return to physical retail
Ted Baker’s return to stores has been gradual rather than a full-scale reopening of its former retail network.
Following the closure of its stand-alone stores, Authentic Brands relaunched Ted Baker online through its operating partner, United Legwear & Co., in November 2024. The brand also continued its wholesale business through Pace Partnership London.
In May 2026, Ted Baker expanded its physical presence with a women’s wear shop-in-shop at Selfridges’ Manchester Trafford store.
The brand also sells in the U.S. through retail partners and licensing operators, including Macy’s, Bloomingdale’s, and Nordstrom.
The new London location is different from those arrangements. It represents Ted Baker’s return to a stand-alone store after its previous retail network was dismantled.
Whether the Fenchurch Street opening becomes the starting point for a broader stand-alone retail rollout remains to be seen.
Authentic Brands Group said the opening marks the next phase of Ted Baker’s U.K. retail strategy, building on its existing presence as the brand continues to strengthen its physical footprint in its home market.
Ted Baker is opening its first standalone store two years after shuttering all its locations.resulmuslu / Getty Images
Why Ted Baker closed its stand-alone stores
Ted Baker’s return to physical retail follows a difficult period for the brand.
In March 2024, Ted Baker filed for administration (the U.K. version of bankruptcy) after Authentic Brands Group terminated its partnership with AARC, which owned and operated Ted Baker’s retail stores and e-commerce platform in the U.K. and Europe, Reuters reported. The move followed a dispute over funding after AARC failed to provide the promised financing.
This came after the business faced a number of financial and operational challenges, including weaker-than-expected sales, unpaid obligations, and high costs.
Following the administration, Ted Baker closed its remaining stand-alone stores in the U.K. and Europe. At the time, the brand had 46 stand-alone locations across the region, according to the filing.
Ted Baker’s North American entities later filed for Chapter 15 bankruptcy protection in the U.S. Bankruptcy Court for the Southern District of New York, alongside insolvency proceedings in Ontario, Canada.
Ted Baker then closed its remaining standalone stores in the U.S. and Canada, ending its previous physical retail footprint in those markets.
While the stand-alone stores disappeared, the brand itself continued through online sales, wholesale relationships, licensing arrangements, and retail partnerships.
The new London store marks a different stage in Ted Baker’s strategy, combining a renewed physical presence with the partnership model it had used since the closure of its stand-alone retail network.
Other retailers are returning to physical stores
Ted Baker is not the only fashion brand to return to brick-and-mortar retail after shutting down its previous stores.
Several brands have re-entered physical retail through partnerships, shop-in-shops, or the reopening of former locations.
Here’s some of my previous coverage of brands returning to physical stores:
Karen Millen: The fashion brand returned to physical stores in August 2026 through a partnership with The Foschini Group, seven years after filing for Chapter 11 bankruptcy.
Fred Segal: Aritzia is reopening the brand’s Melrose flagship after Fred Segal closed its remaining locations in July 2024.
Marks & Spencer (M&S): Nordstrom partnered with the British retailer to launch women’s wear in select stores in April 2026, more than two decades after M&S closed its U.S. stand-alone stores.
Outdoor Voices: Sam’s Club partnered with Outdoor Voices on a limited-edition Spring 2026 collection for its stores after the activewear brand closed its physical stores in 2024.
For Ted Baker, the Fenchurch Street store provides its latest opportunity to reconnect with shoppers in a physical setting after more than two years without a stand-alone location.
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9 Best Roth IRAs of October 2026
Key Takeaways
Charles Schwab is the best overall Roth individual retirement account (IRA) provider, offering no minimum investment amount, no annual fees and access to stocks, ETFs, mutual funds, bonds, CDs, options, IPOs and annuities.
Betterment has the best robo-advisor option, while Vanguard is best for passive investors. Robinhood is worth considering if you’d like matching contributions, while SoFi is a good choice if you prioritize great customer service.
The best Roth IRAs allow you to save after-tax dollars for retirement without paying exorbitant fees, while offering numerous investment vehicles, both managed and DIY options, and educational resources.
Methodology: We reviewed around 20 of the most popular Roth IRA providers, evaluating them on fees, investment options, educational resources, customer satisfaction and contribution matches. Scores were weighted for each category
Why Trust Us?
Our experienced editors and writers independently review Roth IRAs from a variety of financial institutions, ensuring our content is precise and guided by editorial accuracy. Read our full methodology to learn more.
The review of dozens of companies that provide Roth IRAs.
The use of numerous data points to establish benchmarks for each category, including but not limited to fees, account minimums, investment product offerings and accessibility.
Hundreds of hours of cumulative research to determine the top companies operating in the Roth IRA space.
Our top picks for best Roth IRAs
Charles Schwab: Best Overall
Vanguard: Best for Passive Investors
Betterment: Best for Robo-Advisors
Robinhood: Best for Matching Contribution
SoFi: Best for Customer Satisfaction
Fidelity Investments: Best for Fractional Shares
E*TRADE: Best for Educational Resources
Merrill Edge: Best for Sign-up Bonus
Ally Invest: Best for an Online Bank
*All data is subject to change. Information provided here is accurate as of Sept. 24, 2026.
The best Roth individual retirement accounts (IRAs) allow you to save after-tax dollars for retirement without paying exorbitant fees. The Roth IRA providers we’ve selected stand out from their competitors because of their low ongoing costs and broad selections of investment options, as well as the ease with which you can open an account.
Below are Money’s picks for the best Roth IRAs for October 2026. If you are interested in learning more about strategies that can help you meet your retirement goals, you can subscribe to our weekly newsletter, Retire With Money, by clicking here.
Best Roth IRA reviews
Pros
No minimum balance requirement to open an account
Robo-advisor option
Fractional shares from as little as $1
Physical branches nationwide
Cons
$5,000 minimum deposit for opening an automated investment account
Below-average investor satisfaction rating, according to JD Power
Why we chose it: Charles Schwab‘s comprehensive selection of investment products and accounts, including personalized financial guidance, makes it a top brokerage firm for opening a Roth IRA, while also having no fees and offering fractional share of every stock in the S&P 500 as well as a robo-advisor option. It’s also rated No. 2 on JD Power’s 2026 US Retirement Plan Digital Experience Study.
Charles Schwab is a leading brokerage firm that makes it easy to open a Roth IRA online, as there are no minimum account deposits required and customers don’t have to pay any monthly service fees or annual account maintenance fees. Roth IRA investment choices include stocks, bonds, exchange-traded funds (ETFs), CDs and mutual funds, as well as fractional shares of any company in the S&P 500 for as little as $1 (Schwab calls these “Stock Slices,” and they can be traded in real-time throughout the day).
It also offers multiple portfolio management options including robo-advisors, automated retirement income solutions and access to certified financial consultants. As a customer, you also get access to retirement planning tools, resources and in-person help at around 400 Charles Schwab locations nationwide.
Schwab’s robo-advisor options — called Schwab Intelligent Portfolios — offer automated investing with 24/7 live support and no advisory fees or commissions, although it requires a minimum investment of $5,000. Intelligent Portfolios are built out based on a short questionnaire, which helps establish your risk tolerance, goals and investing timeline.
Pros
Large selections of low-cost mutual funds, ETFs and other investment options
Robo-advisor and ESG investing options
Above-average investor satisfaction, according to JD Power
No sales loads or commissions
Cons
$1,000 minimum investment for Vanguard Target Retirement Funds
Annual advisory fee of 0.20% for its all-index investment options, or 0.25% for an active/index mix
Why we chose it: Having created and launched the first passive index fund in 1975, Vanguard is an excellent Roth IRA option with more than 100 proprietary Vanguard-issued ETFs alongside thousands of third-party ETFs and mutual funds, a simple robo-advisor and a history of zero to low fees. It’s also rated No. 3 on JD Power’s 2026 US Retirement Plan Digital Experience Study and above-average in the 2026 Investor Satisfaction Study.
Any Vanguard Target Retirement Fund or Vanguard STAR Fund requires a $1,000 initial investment. Vanguard Digital Advisor requires at least $100 to enroll, but at 0.07% per year, the expense ratio on Vanguard funds is among the lowest in the industry. To give you an idea, for every $1,000 you’d pay about 70 cents. This is a relatively low fee to pay compared to other robo-advisors, like Betterment and Acorns, which charge fixed monthly fees. Ultimately, this means you’re not going to have high fees eating into your profits.
Vanguard’s mutual funds also have no sales loads, sales commissions or account service fees if you choose to receive your account documents electronically. Plus, the company doesn’t charge commissions on stocks and ETFs trades.
Vanguard Digital Advisor is a low-cost robo-advisor solution that offers access to ETFs-only portfolios which you can set up based on your risk assessment and current savings. Its algorithm manages and adjusts the investment mix as needed in order to help you reach your goals. With Vanguard Personal Advisor Services, you can get personalized financial advice from human advisors. However, to enroll in this service you need at least $50,000 in eligible assets. Advisory fees for Personal Advisor Services range from 0.30 to 0.31%.
Pros
Intuitive set-up and asset allocation
No minimum deposit required to start
Uninvested cash earns interest
Nearly 70% of customers have their advisory fees covered through tax-loss harvesting savings
Cons
$5 monthly fee for account balances below $24,000
Annual fee of 0.25% for account balances between $24,000 and $1 million or if you set up $200 or more in recurring monthly deposits
Why we chose it: We chose Betterment as the best robo-advisor for beginners because it offers tax-harvesting features and shows users how much they need to save to meet their financial goals.
Opening a Roth IRA through Betterment is a great way for beginners to start a retirement plan on their own without a minimum deposit. The platform also stands out because its algorithm helps set up clear goals and track them easily. If one of your goals is to save $800,000 for retirement, Betterment can tell you the projected amount you need to deposit each month to meet that goal by your target retirement date. There’s also rollover support, and Betterment’s “Core” portfolio delivers annual returns of 10%, on average.
You’ll also get automatic rebalancing to optimize the growth potential of your retirement savings. Betterment’s algorithm will also automatically execute tax-saving strategies — including tax loss harvesting — to help you reduce tax exposure by offsetting losses and gains. The company just started offering custom portfolios, too.
Betterment also offers guidance and support from certified financial planners to users who enroll in a Premium account, as well as a high-yield bank account for cash reserves (currently 3.50% APY). However, the premium account has a minimum balance requirement of $100,000 plus an additional fee of 0.65% on up to $1 million. Another drawback is its fee structure. For accounts below $24,000, there is a $5 monthly fee. For accounts between $24,000 and $1 million (or for those with at least $200 in recurring monthly deposits), there is a 0.1% to 0.25% annual fee, depending on how much you have invested.
Pros
3% IRA contribution match for Robinhood Gold members and a 1% contribution match for regular members
Roth IRA match applies to IRA contributions, transfers and 401(k) or IRA rollovers
Fractional shares for most U.S.-listed stocks and ETFs begin at just $1
Robo-advisor option
Cons
Robinhood Gold membership costs $5 per month
In order to keep match, funds must remain in the Robinhood IRA for at least five years, and early withdrawals could result in penalties
No mutual funds, fixed-income products or crypto in its IRAs
Why we chose it: Robinhood stands out for offering a best-in-class 3% IRA contribution match for Robinhood Gold members ($5 per month) and a 1% contribution match for regular members.
That match applies to IRA contributions, transfers and 401(k) or IRA rollovers. However, in order to keep the full match, the funds must remain in the Robinhood IRA for at least five years, and early withdrawals could result in penalties.
The Roth IRA provides access to fractional shares for most U.S.-listed stocks and ETFs beginning at just $1. On the down side, Robinhood does not offer mutual funds, fixed-income products or crypto in its IRAs. Its robo-advisor option — Robinhood Strategies — launched in 2025 and charges an annual advisory fee of 0.25% with a $50 minimum investment. It also has futures, crypto and prediction market trading, as well as a custodial account if you want to start investing for your children.
Pros
No accounts minimum or account fees
Offers automated Roth IRAs and a 1% match on qualifying transfers on contributions
Comes with a complimentary 30-minute planning session
No. 1 for customer satisfaction, according to JD Power
Robo-advisor option
Cons
Lacks advanced research tools
Some ETF fees
$50 minimum for automated IRA
Why we chose it: With a score of 724 out of 1,000 SoFi received the highest mark on JD Power’s 2026 U.S. Investor Satisfaction Survey for DIY customer satisfaction.
Users can choose between a self-directed Roth IRA and an automated robo-advisor IRA. The platform also offers thousands of U.S. stocks and ETFs starting at $5, and SoFi offers comprehensive educational resources for novice investors and active retirement savers. While SoFi doesn’t charge setup, maintenance or annual fees, there is a $100 outgoing transfer fee. It also doesn’t require a minimum balance or charge commissions, and customers get a complimentary 30-minute planning session with a SoFi financial planner.
Although SoFi has robo-advisor capabilities and great customer support, it falls short due to its $100 full outgoing transfer fee, and for not offering tax-loss harvesting or stop-loss orders with their accounts. Its 1% match on certain transfers, rollovers and contributions is a notable benefit, though, as is its very high customer satisfaction ratings, according to JD Power’s latest survey. The bank also offers IPO investing, fractional shares and more.
Pros
No minimum amount required to open an account, and no annual account fees
Provides discretionary investment management, robo-advising and self-directed options
Above-averaged investor satisfaction, according to JD Power
Helpful resources and tools, including an IRA contribution calculator
Cons
Charges a 0.35% advisory fee for Fidelity Go Roth IRA accounts if balance is over $25,000
Why we chose it: Fidelity Investments is Money’s choice for best Roth IRA for fractional shares because it offers approximately 7,000 U.S.-listed stocks and ETFs for as little as $1. It was also rated above-average in both JD Power’s Investor Satisfaction study and its Retirement Plan Digital Experience study.
Fidelity’s Roth IRA can be either a self-directed or managed Roth IRA. Both types of accounts have no annual fees, no required minimum balances and offer a wide selection of investment options. You also have access to planning tools, research and 24/7 support from Fidelity’s representatives. Although there are no account or advisory fees, some investments may incur underlying fees which you should check before making a selection.
As with the self-directed IRA, the Fidelity Go managed Roth IRA gives you access to digital planning tools, tax loss harvesting and 24/7 customer service, plus unlimited one-on-one calls with a dedicated Fidelity advisor once your account reaches $25,000. The Go Roth IRA doesn’t charge advisor fees for account balances under $25,000 (there is a 0.35% annual advisory fee for accounts over $25,000). Fidelity includes tools like a retirement income calculator, an IRA contribution calculator and educational resources to help prepare you for retirement.
Pros
$0 commissions for online stock, ETF, and options trades, and access to over 5,000 mutual funds with no transaction fees
Access to live market data and analysis using E*TRADE’s online platform
Generous cash bonus opportunities, including $50-$10,000 promo cash credits
Cons
$500 minimum for automated investing
No fractional shares
Below-average investor satisfaction, according to JD Power
Why we chose it: E*TRADE made our list of best Roth IRAs for its extensive educational resources, which can help retirement savers learn new strategies, adapt to shifting market environments and grow their skills.
The E*TRADE Knowledge Center provides a vast library that is organized into 11 categories and provides resources to investors on topics ranging from retirement planning strategies and capital gains taxes to fixed income vehicles and options trading.
E*TRADE offers $0 commission trades for most investment choices, including U.S.-listed stocks and ETFs. It also provides access to over 5,000 mutual funds, stocks and ETFs with no transaction fees. It also provides access to over 5,000 mutual funds, stocks and ETFs with no transaction fees. It also provides access to over 5,000 mutual funds with no transaction fees. However, options start at 65 cents per contract (or 50 cents per contract for customers who execute at least 30 stock, ETF or options trades per quarter), while bonds are $1 per bond and futures are $1.50 per contract.
There are no minimum account balances required for E*TRADE’s Roth IRA, and its online trading platform makes it easy to access live market data and analysis. In addition to self-directed accounts, E*TRADE offers automated managed portfolios, known as Core Portfolios. These require a $500 account minimum to enroll, and charge an annual flat fee of 0.30%. Unlike other auto-investing solutions, E*TRADE gives you access to a team of experts and tax-sensitive portfolios.You also get the option of choosing socially responsible investments and personalizing your portfolio based on your financial situation, goals and risk tolerance. There’s also a cash bonus opportunity ranging from $50 to $10,000, depending on how much you deposit, and if you’re looking to earn more on your cash reserves, the company’s CDs have particularly high rates right now (some are nearly 4.5%).
Pros
Up to $600 cash bonus for opening a Roth IRA account
Easy sync with Bank of America accounts, which can help you qualify for Bank of America rewards perks
A wide range of stocks, options, bonds, ETFs and well-known mutual funds
Cons
Fractional shares not available
Somewhat limited selection of investment vehicles
Below-average investor satisfaction, according to JD Power
Why we chose it: Merrill Edge stands out from other brokers because it offers new account holders a competitive cash bonus of up to $600. If you’re an existing Bank of America customer, Merrill Edge is a particularly strong choice.
Merrill Edge offers low fees and a generous sign-up bonus. However, there are some restrictions to this offer: You have to make a qualifying deposit of at least $20,000 to your new account within 45 days of opening it, and you must keep the deposited amount intact for 90 days. The cash bonus is determined based on the amount you deposit and ranges from $100 up to $600. A deposit of $200,000 or more is needed to receive the maximum cash reward. You also must use the code “600ME” when opening your account.
Though there are no account fees for online stock and ETF trades, options trades carry a per-contract fee of 65 cents.
If you’re a Bank of America customer, you’ll have a seamless experience linking your Merrill Edge brokerage account to your Bank of America account and will be able to keep track of its performance on the same dashboard. You’ll also benefit from instant transfers when moving money between accounts, a process that can take a few days if you use other banks. Additionally, if you keep $30,000 or more in your Merrill brokerage account, you may qualify for Bank of America’s Preferred Reward program and get rate discounts on some loan products or a rate boost on your credit card rewards or savings account.
Pros
Strong educational resources
Top-notch trading dashboard with real time data
Tax benefits are easy to track on Ally’s online dashboard
Above-average investor satisfaction, according to JD Power
Robo-advisor option
Cons
Fees for mutual funds trades
$100 minimum deposit for Robo Portfolios and a 0.30% to 0.85% advisory fee
$100,000 minimum to participate in Personal Advice
No brick-and-mortar locations
Why we chose it: Ally‘s easy-to-manage investment tools makes it one of the best apps to open a Roth IRA.
With Ally, investors can open a Roth IRA without a minimum balance requirement and fund the account easily by linking to any other bank or credit union. In addition, the company charges no trading commissions on U.S.-listed individual stocks, mutual funds or thousands of ETFs.
Like many platforms, Ally charges a contract fee for options trading (50 cents per trade). There are also some fees related to transfers and account closure. For instance, you’ll be charged a $50 fee for full or partial outgoing transfers from your IRA and an additional $25 closure fee if you withdraw all your funds.
Since it’s connected to an online-only bank, it’s unsurprising that Ally Invest excels with its online tools and educational content. In addition, it offers an easy-to-use interface, a wide selection of securities and access to other financial products, like checking and savings accounts. There’s also a “Smart Score” feature, which rates stock options from 1 to 10, helping you make more informed investment decisions.
Ally’s Robo Portfolios can also be a great option if you’re looking for a hands-off investing experience, and there are both “market-focused” and “cash-enahnced” options. Like most brokers, Ally’s portfolios are built from a mix of ETFs. However, Ally’s Robo Portfolios have a $100 minimum deposit requirement, and may also have a 0.30% annual advisory fee charged monthly. Additionally, there is a $100,000 minimum to participate in Ally’s Personal Advice program and a 75% to 0.85% advisory fee. The bank’s robo portfolios earn you 3% on any cash reserves in your account.
Other IRA companies we considered
In addition to the companies on our top list, we also evaluated the companies below. However, they didn’t make it to our final selection because they feature higher management fees, account minimums or more limited investment choices than the ones we picked.
Wellstrade
Wellstrade — the self-directed investing option from Wells Fargo Advisors — doesn’t charge fees for its standard Roth IRA and offers fractional shares — known as “Stock Fractions” — starting at $10. However, it scored the lowest on JD Power’s 2026 U.S. Investor Satisfaction Survey for overall DIY customer satisfaction. The platform lacks comprehensive educational resources and its robo-advisor option carries a $500 minimum deposit and 0.35% annual advisory fee (unless you open your account with at least $50,000).
Wealthfront
Wealthfront’s best features are its low 0.25% advisory fee and its robo-advisor capabilities. However, we ended up choosing Betterment for the position of best robo-advisor, due to Wealthfront’s $500 opening deposit and account minimum requirements. This restriction might not be a dealbreaker for some, but it can become an obstacle if you are financially strained. It also scored very low on JD Power’s Satisfaction Study.
Public
Public’s fractional shares begin at just $1. The platform doesn’t charge Roth IRA fees, boasts a wide variety of investment products, and matches 1% on all IRA contributions, transfers and 401(k) rollovers However, it was not part of JD Power’s 2026 U.S. Investor Satisfaction Survey, has no robo-advisor option and falls short on retirement-focused educational resources.
Edward Jones
Edward Jones only offers fractional shares through dividend reinvestment plans (fractional shares cannot be purchased directly). The financial services firm charges $75 annually for Roth IRAs and doesn’t offer a robo-advisor option., though it did come in No. 1 on JD Power’s 2026 U.S. Investor Satisfaction Survey for advised account customer satisfaction.
M1 Finance
M1 Finance offers strong automated investment services, including flexible customization that adjusts to your investing needs. However, we decided not to pick it as one of our Roth IRA options due to its restrictions. The account has a $500 opening minimum, and you are charged a $3 monthly fee if your account is less than $10,000 and $100 if you terminate your IRA. As with many of the other companies in this section, it was not a part of JD Power’s satisfaction survey.
Fundrise
Fundrise provides a means of adding real estate exposure to your retirement account. However, we didn’t pick the company because its investment minimums are among the highest and it charges a $125 annual fee for investing via an IRA. The fee can be waived for one year if you invest at least $3,000 and waived permanently if you achieve and maintain a $25,000 account value. A basic plan requires $1,000 whereas its premium account level requires $100,000. Its basic plan only requires a $10 initial investment; however, you’ll need at least $1,000 to access IRA investing. Additionally, since the company focuses solely on real estate, there are some extra fees that can apply, including development and liquidation fees. It was not a part of JD Power’s survey, either.
Roth IRA guide
Before you open a Roth IRA, it’s important to find out how it works, its income and contribution limits, withdrawal rules and the main differences between a traditional IRA and a Roth IRA.
What is a Roth IRA?
A Roth IRA is an individual retirement account where you can contribute after-tax money. While this means you do have to pay taxes on what you invest now, it also means your contributions will grow tax-free until you’re ready to withdraw them, typically after age 59 ½ or once the account has been opened for at least five years.
When deciding whether to open a Roth IRA, consider the following:
Management fees and expense ratios are often the biggest determinants of your investment returns, since they chip away at your earnings yearly.
The best Roth IRA providers typically have a robust online presence, and they should make it easy to open your account online.
The income requirements to contribute to a Roth IRA.
Both Roth IRAs and traditional IRAs provide tax advantages. However, when you get to enjoy those advantages will be different. Be sure to compare both options before deciding which is best for you.
What is a backdoor Roth IRA and a mega backdoor Roth IRA?
A Roth IRA conversion, or a backdoor conversion, is a strategy that consists of converting your pre-tax traditional IRA or an employer retirement account into a Roth IRA. Because traditional IRAs don’t have income limits, you can make your desired contributions up to the contribution limit and later move your money to a Roth IRA through a Roth conversion. However, this strategy has its risk and tax consequences, so consult with a tax professional or financial advisor before taking that route.
A mega backdoor Roth is another strategy that lets you roll over any after-tax dollars you’ve contributed to a 401(k) into a Roth IRA. Although traditional 401(k)s are tax-deferred accounts that you fund with pre-tax money, some accounts allow after-tax contributions up to a specified limit. The goal of a mega backdoor is to save after-tax money within your retirement plan up to the contribution limit to then move that portion to a Roth IRA, preferably before it starts accruing earnings.
As with a backdoor Roth IRA, a mega backdoor Roth can also have tax consequences, so you should consult with your tax advisor before using this strategy. In addition, take into account that not all 401(k) plans offer in-service distributions to a Roth IRA, meaning you should check if this option is permissible under your employer-sponsored plan.
How does a Roth IRA work?
Just like traditional IRAs, a Roth IRA is an individual retirement account you can set up to grow your finances over the years. However, Roth IRAs differ in that you pay taxes on the money you invest before it goes into your account — not when you withdraw it. This means that the money in your account is tax-free, so you can withdraw it whenever without additional penalties or fees.
Who can contribute to Roth IRA?
Not everyone can contribute to a Roth IRA — at least not the full amount. You have to meet specific income requirements to be able to contribute to a Roth IRA. (See below for details). You’ll also face maximum contribution limits that vary based on your age, tax filing status and income. Below we explain what are the income and contribution limits for tax year 2026.
Roth IRA income and contribution limits
IRA contribution limits can change annually based on inflation. For tax year 2026, married couples filing with a modified adjusted gross income (MAGI) below $242,000 can contribute the full amount to a Roth IRA. For couples with incomes between $242,000 and $252,000, the contribution maximum is lower, while no contributions are allowed at incomes of $252,000 or above.
Single filers, heads of household or married couples filing separately (who don’t live together) with a MAGI below $153,000 can contribute the maximum to a Roth IRA in 2026. For incomes between $153,000 and $168,000, contribution limits are lowered, while no contributions are allowed at incomes above $168,000.
Roth IRA contribution limits are somewhat higher for 2026, compared to previous years, and people who earn a taxable income are allowed to contribute up to $7,500 across their IRAs. For taxpayers ages 50 and older, an additional $1,100 can be contributed for a total of $8,600 per year. The updated limits for 2027 will likely be announced in October or November of this year.
When can you withdraw from a Roth IRA?
Although, you can technically withdraw your Roth IRA contributions whenever you want and for any reason without penalties, Roth IRAs have a five-year waiting period in place to limit your withdrawal of tax-subsidized earnings.
Roth IRAs don’t adhere to the required minimum distributions (RMDs) rule either. This rule typically applies to traditional IRAs and requires account owners to start distributing their money at age 73. With a Roth IRA, however, you may decide to never take the distributions and leave it to your beneficiaries. You may also continue to make contributions after the age of 70.5.
No matter your age, Roth IRAs have a five-year waiting period before you can distribute any earnings without taxes and/or penalties. Earnings are also subject to taxes and penalties if you withdraw them before the age of 59.5.
How is a Roth IRA taxed?
Unlike a traditional IRA, any contributions you make to a Roth IRA is nondeductible on your tax return. This is so because you pay tax before your money goes into the account. Qualified distributions, including earnings on your contributions, are also tax-free. However, withdrawals before the five-year waiting period may be subject to fees from your IRA provider.
Roth IRA withdrawal rules
Roth IRAs have a five-year waiting period set to limit your withdrawal of Roth IRA tax-subsidized earnings. Although you can withdraw contributions to your account tax-free and at any time, you can’t do the same with your account’s earnings.
If you withdraw from your earnings before age 59.5, and before five years have passed after your account being opened, those funds will be taxed and you may owe a penalty. Additionally, even if you’re 59.5, the five-year rule still applies: you must wait five years after opening your Roth IRA if you want to withdraw your earnings tax-free.
How to open a Roth IRA?
Almost anyone can open a Roth IRA, as long as you meet the income limits required to contribute. Below are four steps you need to take to open a Roth IRA:
Check if you’re eligible: The first step is to find out whether your income is eligible to open and maintain a Roth IRA. The amount you can contribute to a Roth IRA can change each year, based on inflation and other factors.
Choose a bank or brokerage firm: Research online for potential Roth IRA providers. There are a few dozen options to choose from, so take the time to compare account requirements, fees, minimum balances and investment options. You can check our top picks to get a head start.
Fill out the paperwork: As with opening similar accounts, you may need to fill out some forms and provide personal information and documentation — such as your Social Security number and your bank account information. You’ll also need the info of your beneficiaries.
Choose how to invest the money: You can either design your own portfolio, choose one designed by the investment company, or hire a certified financial planner (CFP) to help you pick the best strategy for your financial goals. Many robo-advisors also offer Roth IRAs.
What’s a Roth IRA conversion?
A Roth IRA conversion is when you roll money from a pre-tax retirement account — a traditional IRA or 401(k) from a past job, for example — into a Roth IRA. You’ll have to pay income taxes on the amount you roll over, but after that, the funds in your Roth IRA can grow (and be withdrawn) tax-free.
Roth IRA FAQs
How does a Roth IRA work?
A Roth IRA is a type of retirement account that lets you contribute after-tax money. This allows you to withdraw the funds in retirement without owing taxes on them — a nice perk for retirees on limited incomes.
Which platform is best for Roth IRAs?
Our analysis found that Charles Schwab offers the best all-around options for Roth IRAs. Vanguard, Betterment, Robinhood, SoFi, Fidelity, E*TRADE, Merrill Edge and Ally all have good options, too. The best Roth IRA depends on your unique needs and financial goals.
Is there a downside to a Roth IRA?
Yes, Roth IRAs do have downsides. The big one is that they offer no tax deductions, as they are funded with after-tax dollars. There are also strict income requirements and contribution limits, and you may charged a penalty if you withdraw the money before you reach 59.5.
How we chose the best Roth IRAs
There are numerous companies that offer financial planning via Roth IRAs, but they’re not all the same. The providers that made our list came out ahead of the pack based on important factors including: low minimum deposit requirements, low fees, access to low-cost investment options — including fractional shares — and account management options. We also considered educational resources, robo-advisor options, customer satisfaction and contribution matches.
Low minimum deposit requirements
We only chose Roth IRAs with reasonable minimum account opening requirements (or none at all) for this list. This factor is crucial, since many consumers may not have the $1,000 or more to get started and need to invest small sums of money at first. Accounts with reasonable minimum deposit requirements lower the entry barrier and make it considerably easier for new investors to get into the game.
Low fees
We also looked for Roth IRA providers that offered no account management fees, had a good variety of no-load mutual funds and low expense ratios. These fees can directly chip away at your investment returns without providing you with any real benefit, so you’re better off not paying them for a self-directed account.
Access to low-cost investment options
All of the Roth IRAs that made our list let you choose from a broad range of investment options, many of which can be traded without any fees. We gave preference to financial institutions that offered their own selection of no-fee investment options, whether that includes ETFs, index funds or mutual funds.
Account management options
Finally, we gave preference to Roth IRAs with helpful online account management options, including setting up a rollover into another account if you choose. This includes not only investing tools and resources, but also access to a mobile app that lets you manage and oversee your personal finance accounts on the go. A few of the Roth IRA providers on our list also offer local branches where consumers can get in-person help, and we consider that a major plus.
Summary of Money’s best Roth IRAs for 2026
Charles Schwab: Best Overall
Vanguard: Best for Passive Investors
Betterment: Best for Robo-Advisors
Robinhood: Best for Matching Contribution
SoFi: Best for Customer Satisfaction
Fidelity Investments: Best for Fractional Shares
E*TRADE: Best for Educational Resources
Merrill Edge: Best for Sing-up Fees
Ally Invest: Best for an Online Bank
5 Best GEO Companies for Improving AI Recommendation Accuracy
AI visibility is only valuable when the information being surfaced is accurate.
A brand may appear in ChatGPT, Gemini, Perplexity, or Claude but still be described with outdated products, incorrect positioning, or incomplete information. For companies relying on generative search as part of customer discovery, those inaccuracies can create confusion and weaken trust.
Generative engine optimization (GEO) can help brands improve both visibility and the quality of how they are represented.
Here are five companies specializing in generative search optimization for improving AI recommendation accuracy.
1. Profound
Profound is a strong fit for companies that want detailed visibility into how AI platforms describe their brands.
Its platform focuses on areas such as brand visibility, citations, sentiment, competitive performance, and answer accuracy across generative search.
That makes it useful for identifying whether AI systems are presenting outdated or inconsistent information.
Companies can monitor how descriptions change across prompts and platforms, then use those insights to determine where corrections or stronger source signals may be needed.
For organizations with internal marketing and content teams, Profound can provide a strong measurement layer around recommendation accuracy.
2. iPullRank
iPullRank is particularly useful when inaccurate AI results stem from unclear digital information.
Large websites can create conflicting signals when products, services, or categories are described differently across multiple pages.
iPullRank can help improve technical SEO, information architecture, entity relationships, and content structure.
For GEO, that can reduce ambiguity around what the company offers and which information should be considered authoritative.
This is especially relevant for enterprise brands with complicated product portfolios or years of legacy content.
3. NP Digital
NP Digital is a strong option for companies that want to investigate why AI platforms are getting their brand story wrong.
An inaccurate recommendation may be a symptom of a broader issue.
Old third-party articles may still describe a previous product offering. Different pages may use conflicting terminology. Competitors may have stronger category associations, causing AI platforms to position the brand incorrectly.
NP Digital can help identify where those inconsistencies originate and determine which parts of the digital footprint need attention.
That could involve updating high-value content, improving technical clarity, strengthening entity signals, or earning newer third-party coverage that better reflects the company’s current positioning.
For brands that have evolved significantly over time, this can make GEO an important part of reputation and information management.
4. Omnius
Omnius is a good fit for SaaS, fintech, and technology companies that want specialized generative search analysis.
Its GEO focus can help brands monitor how products and services are represented across AI-generated recommendations and comparisons.
That is particularly useful in fast-moving categories where features, pricing models, and positioning change frequently.
If AI platforms continue surfacing outdated information, Omnius can help identify which prompts are affected and where content or authority improvements may be needed.
5. Reboot Online
Reboot Online can help companies improve recommendation accuracy by strengthening current third-party information.
Brands cannot control every external source discussing them, but they can create new, credible information that better reflects their present positioning.
Digital PR can help accomplish that.
Original research, expert commentary, and relevant media coverage can expand the number of recent external sources associated with the company.
For GEO, that can help strengthen a more accurate digital picture over time.
Why AI Recommendation Accuracy Matters
An AI mention is not automatically positive.
If a platform describes a company incorrectly, recommends the wrong product, or associates the brand with an outdated category, the result may hurt rather than help.
Companies should therefore monitor both frequency and accuracy.
Important areas to review include product descriptions, target audiences, pricing, capabilities, locations, leadership information, and category positioning.
How Brands Can Improve Accuracy
The first step is identifying where inconsistencies exist.
Owned content should be updated and aligned around current terminology.
Important third-party listings and profiles should also be reviewed where possible.
Brands should make core information clear and easy to find rather than forcing search systems to infer important details. Structured data is one practical way to do this, since it labels key facts about a business in a format machines can read directly.
New external coverage can also help reinforce current positioning when older information remains online.
Choosing the Right GEO Company
The best partner should help diagnose why inaccurate recommendations are happening.
Some companies need stronger technical structure. Others need clearer content, updated entity information, or more current third-party authority.
A strong GEO company should improve not only how often the brand appears, but also how correctly it is represented when it does.
The post 5 Best GEO Companies for Improving AI Recommendation Accuracy appeared first on Addicted 2 Success.
491 Visa Requirements, Processing Time, Fees and Everything You Need To Know
If you’re considering relocating to Australia as a skilled professional, the 491 Skilled Regional Sponsored Visa might be your gateway to building a new life down under. This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about 491 visa requirements, processing timelines, associated costs, and other essential information to help you make an informed decision.
What is the 491 Visa?
The 491 visa is a temporary visa designed for skilled workers willing to live and work in regional Australia. Unlike other Australian visa options, the 491 doesn’t grant permanent residency immediately. Instead, it provides a five-year temporary visa that allows you to establish yourself in a regional area before transitioning to permanent residency through the 191 visa pathway.
This visa is particularly attractive for professionals in high-demand occupations in regional areas but less so in Australia’s major cities. The visa requires sponsorship from a state or territory government, or an eligible family member living in a designated regional area.
Core Eligibility Requirements for 491 Visa
Before diving into the specifics, you must meet the core 491 visa eligibility criteria. First, you cannot be older than 45 years at the time of application. This age limit applies to all primary applicants, though some occupations have exemptions worth investigating.
Your English language proficiency must reach at least a competent level, typically demonstrated through an IELTS score of 6.0 overall, or equivalent scores on other recognised tests like PTE Academic or TOEFL. This minimum ensures you can communicate effectively in an Australian workplace.
Your nominated occupation must appear on your sponsoring state’s skilled occupation list. This is crucial because different regions prioritise different professions based on local labour market needs. A healthcare professional might be in high demand in one state but face competition in another.
You’ll also need to pass police clearance checks and health examinations. Any criminal history or serious health conditions must be disclosed. While not all health conditions result in visa refusal, concealment certainly does.
Understanding the Points System
The 491 visa operates on a points-based system with a minimum threshold of 65 points. However, receiving an invitation typically requires scoring considerably higher, often 80 or more, depending on current competition levels and your target state’s requirements.
Points accumulate across several categories. Your age contributes substantially, with younger applicants receiving higher allocations. English language proficiency beyond the minimum competent level earns additional points. Work experience in your nominated occupation accumulates points, with greater allocations for ten years or more of relevant experience.
Educational qualifications add to your overall score, particularly postgraduate degrees related to your field. State sponsorship itself provides crucial bonus points, with some states offering more generous allocations than others. If you have a partner whose occupation appears on the skilled list, their qualifications can contribute additional points to your application.
491 Visa Processing Time: What to Expect
Processing times for 491 visas vary considerably based on multiple factors. Typically, expect the process to take 12 to 18 months from receiving your invitation to apply through final decision.
However, this timeline begins only after you’ve received an invitation following your expression of interest. Before that, you must submit an expression of interest through SkillSelect and wait for your chosen state to invite you to formally apply. This waiting period varies significantly—some applicants receive invitations within weeks, while others wait several months depending on occupational demand and their points competitiveness.
During the official assessment period, the Department of Home Affairs thoroughly verifies your qualifications, employment history, health status, and character. They may request additional documentation or seek clarification on submitted information. Responding promptly to these requests significantly impacts your overall processing timeline.
491 Visa Fees: Complete Cost Breakdown
Understanding the complete financial investment is essential for proper migration planning. The base 491 visa application fee currently sits at approximately AUD 3,600 for the primary applicant.
If you’re including dependents, costs increase accordingly. A spouse or de facto partner adds approximately AUD 1,800 to your total fees. Each dependent child costs around AUD 900. These are just the official visa fees—additional costs accumulate quickly.
Skills assessment for your occupation typically costs between AUD 500 and AUD 2,000, depending on your profession. English language testing ranges from AUD 300 to AUD 500 per test. Many applicants require multiple test attempts, increasing this expense.
Professional migration agent fees usually range from AUD 2,000 to AUD 5,000, though complex cases might cost more. While not mandatory, many applicants find professional guidance invaluable for maximizing their chances of success.
Additional costs include health examinations (AUD 200 to AUD 500), police clearance certificates (AUD 100 to AUD 300), document translation and notarization, and initial settlement expenses upon arrival in Australia.
Key 491 Visa Requirements Breakdown
Your nominated occupation must align with Australian industry standards. Skills assessment proves this alignment through formal evaluation of your qualifications and work experience. Most occupations require several years of relevant work experience, though exact requirements vary.
Work experience validation is thorough. Immigration authorities want evidence that you’ve actually performed the duties your nominated occupation requires. Simply holding a job title doesn’t guarantee points if your actual responsibilities don’t match occupational standards.
Educational qualifications must be verified through official channels. If your qualifications are from overseas institutions, you may need official verification or formal assessment. Some applicants complete additional Australian qualifications to strengthen their applications.
Regional Commitment: A Non-Negotiable Requirement
One significant 491 visa requirement is maintaining residence in your designated regional area throughout your five-year visa period. This isn’t merely legal requirement—it’s a fundamental aspect of the visa design. You cannot simply use the 491 to reach Australia and immediately relocate to Sydney or Melbourne.
Most Australian states define regional areas broadly, so you’ll likely have several location options within your chosen state. However, major cities like Sydney and Melbourne are typically excluded from regional designations, limiting where you can establish yourself.
Demonstrating genuine commitment to your regional choice during your application strengthens your case. Explaining specific reasons for your regional selection—employment opportunities, family connections, educational prospects, or lifestyle preferences—shows immigration authorities that you’re making a considered decision rather than simply seeking visa access.
Regional Requirements and Sponsorship Options
The 491 visa offers two sponsorship pathways. State or territory government sponsorship remains the most common option. Each region maintains its own occupational priority lists and sponsorship quotas, creating different opportunities depending on your field and target location.
Alternatively, eligible family members residing in specified regional areas can sponsor you. This pathway requires your family member to meet specific criteria and establish their regional residence before sponsoring you.
Making Your 491 Decision
Before committing to the 491 visa pathway, carefully evaluate whether the financial investment, processing timeline, and regional commitment align with your personal and professional goals. Research your target state’s specific requirements, honestly assess your points situation, and consider professional guidance.
The 491 represents a genuine opportunity for skilled migration to Australia, but it requires careful planning and sustained commitment. Understanding every aspect of this visa positions you to make informed decisions and navigate the application process successfully, ultimately leading to a rewarding life and career in regional Australia.
Understanding the 491 visa requirements, processing times, and fees will comprehensively prepare you for this significant life decision. Whether you proceed with your application, ensure you’re fully informed about what this pathway entails and whether it aligns with your migration objectives.
Immivisa.com.au is a leading law firm offering various Australia visa services. Check their website to know more about their services.
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Netflix Co-CEO Says This Is a Major Problem With the $281 Billion Company
Ted Sarandos said he’s working on improving the streaming giant.
What If Your Hiring Best Practices Aren’t Actually Best Practices? Here’s How to Find Out.
Learn why your standard hiring criteria might be screening out your best candidates — and how to fix your recruitment process.