so you put in up to a certain amount for example $7,000. then just leave it alone and watch it grow, ideally until you're at least 59.5. but you can take money out of it. but only the amount you put in ($7000). you can take out the rest of your earnings but there will be a penalty.

i have a couple questions 1. how do i open a roth ira? do i just go to my bank and tell them i want one? 2. if i don't have the money to put the max amount in, could i add money later? like if at max i could put in $7000. but i only have $2000. could i put in $2000 then if i get another 5k, put that in at a later time? and can you put money in it every year?

edit: i am 18 and just graduated high school and start college next week. i currently work a part time job