
When you hear “tax-deferred accounts,” you might think you’re getting a great deal. You put off paying taxes now, and your money grows faster. But not every tax-deferred account is a win. Some can actually cost you more in the long run. Fees, tax rates, and withdrawal rules can eat into your savings. If you’re not careful, you could end up with less money than if you’d just paid taxes upfront. Here’s what you need to know about tax-deferred accounts that might not be as good as they seem.