For The Hayters

Wallet Therapy: Roth IRAs, HSAs, and the Accounts Nobody Actually Explained to You

May 21, 2026·30 min
Episode Description from the Publisher

Every time someone mentions a Roth IRA, do you nod along and then immediately Google it the second they walk away? Same. In this episode, Becky admits she still isn't totally sure what she has or doesn't have when it comes to retirement accounts, and Alex breaks it all down without making anyone feel behind.The SolutionWhat a Roth IRA actually is and why Alex is obsessed with it (hint: the government doesn't get a cut)The difference between a Roth and a traditional account, explained in a way that finally makes senseWhy just opening the account isn't enough and the one step most beginners skipHSAs: the triple tax advantage account that most people scroll past during open enrollmentFSA vs. HSA, because yes, they are very different and one of them disappears if you don't use itThe income limits, contribution limits, and the deadline most people don't know existsThis week's homework: Check your emergency fund, peek at your retirement accounts, and spend ten minutes learning one financial concept you've been avoiding. That's it. That's the whole assignment.Want to ask Alex your specific 401(k) questions live? Join us May 14th at 6pm in our Wallet Therapy Live session on Patreon → patreon.com/beckyhaterTry Fidelity: https://fidelity.app.link/e/zN0pCpYeUZbTry Monarch: Get 50% off your first year → https://monarch.com/referral/ey3kkk8c7eConnect with us:Join the Live Therapy: Support the show and join our monthly live Q&As at patreon.com/beckyhayter.Share your story: Email us at info@forthehaters.com to have your financial scenario featured on the show!See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

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