What is the difference between a Traditional and Roth IRA?

With a Traditional IRA, contributions may be tax-deductible and you pay taxes when you withdraw in retirement. With a Roth IRA, you contribute after-tax dollars but enjoy tax-free growth and withdrawals in retirement.

How much can I contribute to an IRA each year?

IRS contribution limits change annually. For 2026, consult IRS guidelines or speak with our team for the current limits. Catch-up contributions are available for those age 50 and older.

What is the minimum to open an IRA?

IRA Savings accounts can be opened with just $1. IRA Certificates require a minimum of $500.

Can I withdraw from my IRA early?

Early withdrawals (before age 59½) may be subject to IRS penalties and taxes. IRA Savings accounts have no credit union withdrawal penalties. IRA Certificates may have early withdrawal penalties — check your specific term.

What is a PSM/BPM/BAM rate?

PSM (Payroll Savings Member), BPM (Bill Pay Member), and BAM (Business Account Member) rates are enhanced rates available to members who qualify through specific account relationships with BrightStar.

Are my IRA deposits insured?

Yes. IRA deposits at BrightStar Credit Union are federally insured by the NCUA up to $250,000 separately from your regular accounts.

Do you offer Coverdell Education IRAs?

Yes. Coverdell Education Savings Accounts (ESAs) are available with tiered rates. Contact us for current rates and contribution limits.

IRAs — Traditional, Roth & IRA Certificates | BrightStar Credit Union

Ready for Retirement? Build a Future of Relaxation Today

Saving for retirement is one of the most important financial decisions you'll ever make. At BrightStar Credit Union, we offer a range of Individual Retirement Accounts (IRAs) — including Traditional IRAs, Roth IRAs, and IRA Certificates — designed to help you grow your savings and secure your future.

Choose the Right IRA for Your Retirement Goals

Traditional IRA

Tax-Deferred Savings

Enjoy the benefits of tax-deferred retirement savings. Contributions may be tax-deductible, and you'll pay taxes only when you withdraw during retirement.

Contributions may be tax-deductible

Tax-deferred growth

Pay taxes only at withdrawal

Roth IRA

Tax-Free Growth & Withdrawals

Pay taxes now and enjoy tax-free growth and withdrawals later. Roth IRAs are ideal if you expect to be in a higher tax bracket in retirement.

Tax-free growth and withdrawals

No required minimum distributions

Ideal for higher future tax brackets

Flexible IRA Savings and Certificate Options

IRA Savings Account

Keep Your Retirement Funds Liquid

Open with just $1

No minimum balance requirement

No monthly fees

Contribute at your own pace

Also available: Educator IRA Savings & Coverdell IRA Savings

IRA Certificate

Lock In Your Rate and Term

Open with as little as $500

Fixed terms from 1 month to 5 years

Competitive, locked-in rates

Mini Jumbo and Jumbo IRAs available

Current IRA Certificate Rates

Traditional IRA Certificate Rates

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Roth IRA Certificate Rates

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Educator IRA Certificate Rates

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Are You an Educator?

Check out our special Educator IRA products with higher rates designed exclusively for education professionals.

View Educator IRAs

Frequently Asked Questions

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Open an IRA at BrightStar Credit Union and take advantage of competitive rates and tax benefits.

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Individual Retirement Accounts (IRAs)

Choose the Right IRA for Your Retirement Goals

Tax-Deferred Savings

Tax-Free Growth & Withdrawals

Flexible IRA Savings and Certificate Options

IRA Savings Account

IRA Certificate

Current IRA Certificate Rates

Traditional IRA Certificate Rates

Roth IRA Certificate Rates

Educator IRA Certificate Rates

Are You an Educator?

Frequently Asked Questions

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