How Can I Use an IRA Election to Reduce Tax Liability

A traditional IRA is a way to save for retirement that gives you tax advantages.

You may be able to claim a deduction on your individual federal income tax return for the amount you contributed to your IRA. See IRA Contribution Limits.

Contribution you make to a traditional IRA may be fully or partially deductible. The deduction may be limited if you or your spouse is covered by a retirement plan at work and your income exceeds certain levels.

• Retirement plan at work: Your deduction may be limited if you (or your spouse, if you are married) are covered by a retirement plan at work and your income exceeds certain levels.
• No retirement plan at work: Your deduction is allowed in full if you (and your spouse, if you are married) aren’t covered by a retirement plan at work.

The charts in the link below show the income range in which your deduction may be disallowed if you or your spouse participates in a retirement plan at work:

 IRS.gov

mayaD left out the most important part.

you must have compensation 1040 Line 1 to make an IRA contribution up to that compensation or the limit whichever is less.

@Seadog1 

you are better off making a Roth IRA contribution, and taking the tax hit now, not later in retirement.