I have a solo 401(k) as an S corporation and a traditional IRA. If I put in the max contribution to my solo 401(k), will I also get a tax deduction for putting in the max contribution to my traditional IRA? I read somewhere this is dependent on income, so not sure where to find that info.
First, let me define maximum contribution, because I think that is where you may be getting confused.
The total contributions limit (max limit) to all defined contribution accounts for a person is set by the IRS, and they are as follows:
2017 - Age less than 50 = $54,000; Age 50 and above = $60,000
2018 - Age less than 50 = $55,000; Age 50 and above = $61,000
Now, part of that max limit is employee contributions and part of that is employer contributions. Simply put, employee-elective deferrals are 100 percent of compensation or:
2017 - Age less than 50 = $18,000; Age 50 and above = $24,000
2018 - Age less than 50 = $18,500; Age 50 and above = $24,500
Then the balance into all defined contribution plans would come from employer contributions or via the self-employment calculation.
If you have a solo 401(k) plan, you are contributing as both the employer and the employee and can take the maximum contribution in the solo 401(k) plan if you have sufficient income. Based upon the facts given I can't imagine a scenario when you would want to contribute to both a solo 401(k) and a deductible IRA. The whole purpose of the solo 401(k) is to get the true max-defined contribution limit ($55,000 or $61,000) into the plan. I suggest you consult with a CPA who has a certified financial planner certification to get proper plan design guidance.
Answered by:
Tami Noll Russo, CPA, is a certified financial planner with Noll Financial Services in Middletown, Pa.