2024 IRA Contribution & Eligibility Calculator
Understanding Your 2024 IRA Contributions
Individual Retirement Accounts (IRAs) are powerful tools for building long-term wealth. However, the IRS sets strict limits on how much you can contribute annually and whether those contributions provide immediate tax benefits.
2024 Contribution Limits
For the 2024 tax year, the total contribution limit for both Traditional and Roth IRAs combined is:
- $7,000 if you are under age 50.
- $8,000 if you are age 50 or older (includes a $1,000 "catch-up" contribution).
Traditional vs. Roth IRA
The primary difference lies in the timing of tax advantages:
- Traditional IRA: Contributions may be tax-deductible in the year they are made, but withdrawals in retirement are taxed as ordinary income.
- Roth IRA: Contributions are made with after-tax dollars (no immediate deduction), but qualified withdrawals in retirement are completely tax-free.
MAGI and Phase-outs
Your "Modified Adjusted Gross Income" (MAGI) determines your eligibility. If your income exceeds certain thresholds, your ability to contribute to a Roth IRA or deduct Traditional IRA contributions begins to "phase out" (decrease) until it reaches zero.
Why Use This Calculator?
Tax laws for retirement accounts are complex. This calculator uses the 2024 IRS guidelines to help you determine exactly how much you can set aside and which account type offers the best tax advantage based on your specific financial situation.