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Traditional IRA

A traditional IRA allows individuals to make tax-deductible contributions of 100% of their earned income, up to the maximum contribution limits allowed, in any given year. You and/or your spouse’s contributions are fully tax-deductible if neither of you are covered by a pension plan at work. If one spouse does not have a pension plan at work, then that particular spouse is eligible for an IRA. If either or both spouses participate in a retirement plan at work, you may still be eligible for tax-deductible IRA contributions based on your adjusted gross income (AGI).

Refer to the following chart to determine if your IRA contributions will be deductible based on your adjusted gross income level and filing status (if under age 50):

SingleMarried Filing JointlyDeduction
AGI less than $77,000AGI less than $123,000Full
AGI $79,000 to $87,000AGI $123,000 to $143,000Limited
AGI more than $87,000AGI more than $143,000None

Normal Withdrawals
Anytime after age 59½, you may make withdrawals from your IRA without incurring IRS penalties. Any amounts withdrawn from your traditional IRA are completely taxable as ordinary income. At age 73, you must begin receiving minimum distributions from your IRA based on your life expectancy.

Early Withdrawals
Your money may be withdrawn from an IRA at any time; however, when a withdrawal is made, all monies are considered ordinary income and subject to taxation. Early withdrawals, those made prior to age 59½, will be assessed a 10% early withdrawal penalty by the IRS with the exception of the following:

  • Payments made to a beneficiary
  • Monies withdrawn while you are disabled
  • Payments made to you in equal, periodic payments by fixed annuitization
  • Withdrawals made for deductible medical expenses
  • Money used to pay health insurance premiums (for certain unemployed individuals)
  • Withdrawals made for qualified first-time home purchases
  • Withdrawals made for qualified higher education expenses

Payments to Beneficiaries
Funds will be paid to named beneficiaries per the IRS guidelines at the time of the owner’s passing.

A surviving spouse is eligible for special consideration as a beneficiary, such as the right to roll-over the decedent’s IRA into an IRA in their name.

Rollovers and Transfers
Rollovers and transfers are methods of moving your retirement assets from one place to another. Rollovers pass through the IRA participant’s hands, while transfers move the funds from financial institution to financial institution. The IRS has some general rules to follow concerning transfers and rollovers. Only one rollover is allowed in any 12-month period. Rollovers must be deposited to an IRA account within 60 days for the account to maintain its tax-deferred status. Transfers have no such limits or time constraints.

Tax yearUnder Age 50Age 50+
2023$6,500$7,500
2024$7,000$8,000

For additional information on IRAs, consult IRS publication 575 – Pensions and Annuity Income. Remember, tax laws change and your personal situation is unique; therefore, you are advised to always seek appropriate advice from your attorney or tax advisor before pursuing any investment.

DISCLAIMER:
SNPJ does not assume responsibility for the accuracy of this information.  Everyone’s information is different, so you should consult with your tax or legal advisor for your specific situation.