Roth IRA Conversions Open the Door for All Income Levels
By Saghir Aslam
Irvine, CA
(The following information is provided
solely to educate the Muslim community
about investing and financial
planning. It is hoped that the ummah will
benefit from this effort
through greater financial
empowerment, enabling
the community
to live in security and
dignity and fulfill their
religious and moral obligations
towards charitable
activities)
The Roth IRA, originally established
as an attractive retirement savings
vehicle for middle-income Americans,
has been out of reach to high-income
earners until now. But under a new provision
beginning in 2010, investors can
convert retirement plans and IRAs to
Roth IRAs. This means that even high
earners who convert to Roth IRAs will
benefit from the tax-free withdrawal benefits
the Roth IRA offers.
For the first time beginning January
1, 2010, people earning a modified
adjusted gross income over $100,000 will
be able to convert any amount of their
traditional IRA assets to Roth IRAs. Investors
in Roth IRAs pay income tax on
the money they invest now and withdraw
it tax-free in the future -- the reverse of
the traditional IRA structure.
Those who convert will also be able
to spread those upfront tax payments
over two years.
For all these reasons, Roth IRAs
should definitely find their way back into
affluent investors’ toolkits. There is ample reason to consider a Roth conversion and to discuss this notion with your own tax advisor[1]. Roth IRA presents certain advantages to eligible investors. The Roth affords eligible investors tax-free withdrawals, tax-free growth, no minimum distribution requirements and estate planning benefits. Instead of claiming a tax deduction from current income in the year you contribute, a Roth IRA offers tax-free withdrawals on the back end, as long as you meet certain requirements. It is important to understand what these changes mean in your own financial situation: while the conversion from a traditional to a Roth IRA is open to anyone regardless of income or filing status, new contributions continue to be capped by income for those who make direct contributions. The income threshold for a full contribution for 2009 is $105,000 for single persons and $166,000 for married persons filing jointly. For a reduced contribution, the income threshold is $120,000 and $176,000, respectively; however, the benefits phase out at even lower income levels. Both traditional IRA and rollover IRA assets are eligible for the Roth IRA conversion. A conversion creates taxable income for the year in which it takes place; however, in 2010, investors will be permitted to split the conversion tax amount over two years, 2011 and 2012. Unlike a traditional IRA that requires withdrawals beginning at age 70- 1/2, funds may grow tax-deferred in the Roth IRA indefinitely or be withdrawn on your own schedule. Another attraction of the Roth conversion for affluent investors is that it can reduce the size of one’s taxable estate. The account can be kept intact and passed on to your heirs income tax free. There are many factors to think through before you convert an IRA to a Roth IRA or invest in a Roth, and investors are advised to consult with a financial advisor to evaluate this investment option. Work with your advisor to learn more and to take steps to take advantage of this opportunity in 2010. (Saghir A. Aslam only explains strategies and formulas that he has been using. He is merely providing information, and NO ADVICE is given. Mr. Aslam does not endorse or recommend any broker, brokerage firm, or any investment at all, or does he suggest that anyone will earn a profit when or if they purchase stocks, bonds or any other investments. All stocks or investment vehicles mentioned are for illustrative purposes only. Mr. Aslam is not an attorney, accountant, real estate broker, stockbroker, investment advisor, or certified financial planner. Mr. Aslam does not have anything for sale.)
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