Brokerage Account	Retirement Account	Checking Account
Purpose of account	Investing	Earmarked for long term growth and retirement savings	Bank account used for everyday spending
Fees	No fees to open and maintain your account	No fees to open and maintain your account	No fees to open and maintain your account
Taxes	More flexibility, based on what you sell. Must typically claim any capital gains as taxable income	Specific tax benefits, depending on the IRA you choose	There may be taxes on the interest income earned based on your checking account type
Contribution limits	No restrictions on the dollar amount you can invest	Has contribution limits, and certain eligibility requirements	No restrictions on the dollar amount you can contribute
Withdrawal rules	Take money out anytime without paying any fees	Depending on the IRA you choose, there are penalties if you take money out before retirement	No limit to when or how often you can access your money