Ep 62: Demystifying Retirement Accounts: Traditional IRA, Roth IRA, Rollover IRA and SEP IRA

Today we’re learning allllll about IRAs (individual retirement arrangements/accounts) including Roth IRAs, Traditional IRAs, Rollover IRAs and SEP IRAs. You’ll understand contribution limits, tax implications, and eligibility requirements for each account. As always, we aim to empower you with all the knowledge you need to make informed decisions for future you. This is not advice.    

✨Roth IRAs are best for you if you are in a lower income tax bracket and do not need a tax break, because you are taxed upfront, not later. 

✨Traditional IRAs are best for you if you do not qualify for a Roth, or if you need a tax break… if you qualify for the deduction. The benefits are before tax dollars, offering you a tax break if you are eligible bc you are in a higher tax bracket. 

✨Rollover IRAs you rollover an employer sponsored plan, like a 401k in the plan you want to keep them separate so you can roll it back into a new 401k plan at a new employer. 

✨SEP IRAs are best for small business owners who do not want the complexities of 401ks. There are higher contribution limits, and all contributions are made by the employer.       

Contribution LimitsYou have to have taxable ⁠compensation⁠ and your ⁠modified AGI⁠. Beginning in 2024, the IRA contribution limit increased to $7,000 ($8,000 for individuals age 50 or older) from $6,500 ($7,500 for individuals age 50 or older). This stayed the same for 2025.

Resources: 

Contribution limits: ⁠https://www.irs.gov/publications/p590a⁠

SEP IRA FAQ: ⁠https://www.irs.gov/retirement-plans/retirement-plans-faqs-regarding-seps⁠