[TN_POKER_MAN]

[ QUOTE ]

So the new question is...is it still advisable to fill up the IRA over adding to the S&P index even if I may want to cash it out in say 5-10 years?[ QUOTE ]


That's an easy one: NO!
You'll pay a penalty if you pull money out of an IRA prior to age 59 1/2 (except for a Roth, which still requires you to leave your growth in the IRA).

If you need the money in 5-10 years, just pick a good stock mutual fund that is not in an IRA.