In: Accounting
Reggie is a self-employed taxpayer who turns 59 years old at the
end of the year (2017). In 2017, his net Schedule C income was
$316,000. This was his only source of income. This year, Reggie is
considering setting up a retirement plan.
What is the maximum amount he may contribute to the self-employed
plan in each of the following situations?
a. He sets up a SEP IRA.
b. He sets up an individual 401(k).
Answer:
a. $49,000. Contributions to SEP IRAs are limited to the lesser of
$49,000 minus other contributions (employer and employee) to other
qualified defined contribution accounts or 20% of net earnings from
self-employment. Reggie’s earnings from self-employment equals
$277,050 ($3,16,000 × .9235). His contribution is limited to
$58,365 ($2,91,826 × 20%). However, it is further limited to
$49,000. Note that the maximum contribution to a SEP IRA does not
depend on age.
b. $54,500. Contributions to individual 401(k)s are limited to the lesser of $49,000 or 20% of net earnings from self-employment plus $16,500 . However, if the taxpayer is 50 years old or older as of the end of the year, the taxpayer may contribute an additional $5,500. Therefore, the maximum amount that Reggie may contribute is $54,500 ($49,000 + $5,500). Thus, Reggie may contribute the lesser of (1) $54,500 (49,000 +5,500) or (2 )$80,365 [20% × $291826 ($3,16,000 × 92.35%)+ $16,500 + 5,500]. So, his maximum contribution is $54,500.