Skip to main content
Level 2
January 27, 2021
Question

1099-NEC

  • January 27, 2021
  • 7 replies
  • 27 views

I earned $12k in 2020 and it was reported in a 1099-NEC.  When I enter my Roth IRA contribution of $1500, it classifies it as an excess contribution and says my earned income is zero.

    7 replies

    bobaloisiAuthor
    Level 2
    January 27, 2021

    CORRECTION: when I enter my wife's contribution of $1500

    JohnB5677
    Alumni - Intuit
    January 27, 2021

    Your spouse can contribute to any IRA based on your income alone.  However, it cannot exceed your joint taxable income.   

     

    You stated that you received $12K on a 1099-NEC. That's countable as income, but your deductions may have reduced your income to the point where your wife was no longer eligible.

     

    The IRS says: If you file a joint return and have taxable compensation, you and your spouse can both contribute to your individual IRAs provided.  

    • Your total contributions to both your IRA and your spouse’s IRA may not exceed your joint taxable income
    • or the annual contribution limit on IRAs times two, whichever is less.
    • It doesn't matter which spouse earned the income.  

    Roth IRAs and IRA deductions have other income limits.

    See IRA Contribution Limits and IRA deduction limits.

    **Say "Thanks" by clicking the thumb icon in a post. **Mark the post that answers your question by clicking on "Mark as Best Answer"
    bobaloisiAuthor
    Level 2
    January 28, 2021

    Our joint taxable income is $102K (line 15, 1040) 

     

    see image below

     

    Could this be why?  If Yes, where do I look to find out why it believes my 2020 Earned Income is zero?