I didn't have any problem interpreting Patrick's reply. It wasn't really answering the question, but it was a helpful, though off-topic reply and had nothing to do with being able to get miles for an IRA.

Though it was terse, he was suggesting that a Roth may be a better option. There's no upfront tax advantage like there might be with a traditional IRA, but there's a lot more advantage down the road. One reason somebody may not be able to open a Roth is because they have too much income. I don't know what the cutoff for Roth eligiblity is for tax year 2003, but it used to be $160k.

Anyway .. the real Leona Helmsley was known for at least two things.

1. She said that taxes are for little people.

2. The way she treated her subordinates.

So, maybe, the reply was just "in character".

-David


[This message has been edited by LIH Prem (edited Feb 22, 2004).]