I am in the process of attempting to plan for an early retirement. Which I hope to do around 57. (in about 10 years).

My estimates have shown that I should attempt to have low taxes in retirement. And that currently (and hopefully this will change) there is a crazy... crazy.. difference between the tax brackets. So if you make 37K per year (gross) you will pay 25% tax. But, if you make 80K you pay the same. That is crazy. Under 37K you pay 15%

So it seems like at least some of my income in retirement must be tax free. This is where a Roth IRA comes in.

But, here is what I don't understand... what is the difference between a Roth IRA and a regular savings account? They seem to basically be the same thing? Except that Roth's have a ton of rules and restrictions. Perhaps the Roth has a better return but, so far, that is all I can see. And there is no guarantee on that.

Anyone have an idea?