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New Member
posted Apr 20, 2025 4:22:22 PM

Why does TurboTax tell me a different, lower amount for my earned income as compared to my taxable income?

My ROTH IRA contribution is above the stated earned income, but below the stated taxable income.

0 1 1960
1 Best answer
Level 15
Apr 20, 2025 4:59:32 PM

Earned income is only from wages on W2 (1040 line 1) or a Net Profit on Schedule C for self employment income.   

For an IRA contribution.  If you only have self-employment income you can only contribute up to your net profit reduced by the deduction allowed for one-half of your self-employment taxes then only up to the max IRA limit.

 

See IRS publication 590 http://www.irs.gov/pub/irs-pdf/p590a.pdf

 

So check 1040 Schedule 1 line 15.  You have to deduct that amount from your Schedule C Net Profit.  That will give you the allowed contribution for self employment & 1099NEC income.

1 Replies
Level 15
Apr 20, 2025 4:59:32 PM

Earned income is only from wages on W2 (1040 line 1) or a Net Profit on Schedule C for self employment income.   

For an IRA contribution.  If you only have self-employment income you can only contribute up to your net profit reduced by the deduction allowed for one-half of your self-employment taxes then only up to the max IRA limit.

 

See IRS publication 590 http://www.irs.gov/pub/irs-pdf/p590a.pdf

 

So check 1040 Schedule 1 line 15.  You have to deduct that amount from your Schedule C Net Profit.  That will give you the allowed contribution for self employment & 1099NEC income.