Roth IRA Rollover Limits and Roth IRA Contributions at 70 1/2: Today’s Q&A Mailbag

Thursday, June 07, 2018
By Beverly DeVeny
IRA Analyst
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Question:

Hello,

I am retired and have done a Roth in plan rollover within my work 401K. Am I able to do a Roth rollover within a Fidelity IRA to a Fidelity Roth IRA?

Is there a rule that limits the number of Roth IRA Rollovers you can do in a year or period of time? 

Thanks,

Dennis

Answer:

There is no limit on the number of Roth conversions that can be done in one tax year. There is also no limit on the amount that you convert in any one tax year. Just keep in mind that conversions are no longer reversible.

Any pre-tax amounts that you convert to a Roth account in 2018, whether the funds are from your employer plan or your IRA, will be included in your taxable income for 2018. You may need to make estimated tax payments to avoid any underpayment penalties; you will have to come up with the any shortfall by April 15, 2019.

Question:

Can someone who is 70 1/2 contribute to a Roth IRA? They are not employed and the only funds they receive are from RMDs, investments, and social security.

If they can start a ROTH IRA are there any limitations in amounts or any other limitations?

Thank you,

Betty

Answer:

While an individual cannot make IRA contributions beginning in the year they turn 70 ½, they can still make Roth contributions if they have earned income and are under the Roth income limits.

Unfortunately, retirement payments, Social Security, and investment income are not considered earned income. Generally, W-2 income and self-employment income is what is needed in order to make IRA or Roth IRA contributions.

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