Vanguard has some of the lowest management fees, which is crucially important for a long-term investment like an IRA. Instead of the Total Stock Market Index, look for one of Vanguard's Lifecycle funds. With the Lifecycle funds, you pick the date you expect to retire, and they automatically change your asset allocation over time. It's fewer decisions for you to make, which allows you to focus on things you'd rather be doing.

Once you start the Lifecycle account, the only decision you have to make is how much money to send them. If you invested in the Total Stock market Index, you would have broad diversification within the stock market, but at age 36 you should be gradually reducing your portfolio risk by investing in other asset classes besides stocks. Why do that on your own? Go with the Lifecycle fund!

I've been a Vanguard investor for over 20 years, and I'm a big fan, but there's nothing wrong with Fidelity or T. Rowe Price funds if their annual expenses are comparable. And don't get suckered into paying a sales load to any fund!

So far you got it right. Go with Vanguards Total Stock

Market Index Fund. A moderate high risk fund with

a great performance over the years. For a 36 year old

you are behind in your savings and investments for

a good retirement, so get on the ball and get with it.

You can invest up to $5,500 a year into the Roth IRA.

Vanguard is a great company.

Maybe 1/3 in S&P index 500 fund, 1/3 in health care fund, 1/3 in international growth fund.

Mutual funds are very diversified. You're young so don't be too conservative as you will miss out on a lot of growth.

Vanguard, fidelity or troweprice . You are seeking the 2030 or 2035 fund.

Take care

I have about $3000 i'd like to invest in a Roth IRA. I was thinking of going with vanguard. there a so many investment options it makes my head spin. I don't want anything too risky, just a solid retirement account. I'm 36 years old by the way. any suggestions?