Traditional IRAs offer two large incentives to encourage retirement savings. First, Traditional IRA contributions may be tax-deductible on an IRA holder's tax return. Consult your tax advisor to find out if you qualify for the deduction. Second, earnings on a Traditional IRA are not taxed until the IRA holder takes the money out. Traditional IRA holders are not required to withdraw the funds until they reach the age of 70½.
Contribution Eligibility
In order to contribute to a Traditional IRA, the contributor (or spouse if married and filing a joint return) must have earned income equal or greater than the contribution amount. If contributions are made to both a Traditional and Roth IRA, the maximum contribution to the Traditional is reduced by the amount contributed to the Roth IRA. Your Modified Adjusted Gross Income (MAGI) and your participation in an employer sponsored retirement (QRP) will affect your deductibility. Please refer to the income deduction limits below:
Traditional IRA Deduction MAGI Ranges
- Single active participant: $58,000-$68,000 for 2012 ($56,000-$66,000 for 2011)
- Married active participant filing a joint income tax return: $173,000-$183,000 for 2012 ($169,000-$179,000 for 2011)
- Married active participant filing a separate income tax return: $0-$10,000 for both 2011 and 2012
- Spouse of an active participant: $173,000-$183,000 for 2012 ($169,000-$179,000 for 2011)
Contribution amounts and catch-up contribution amounts will increase annually as follows:
