Greg Herlean

Are you wondering how to avoid the capital gains tax?

First, let’s clarify exactly what the term capital gains tax means. A capital gains tax is the fee you’re responsible for paying to the IRS after making a profit from selling an asset. It applies to stocks, bonds, securities, real estate, cars, boats, gold, furnishings, and other assets.

A capital gain is assessed based on what you pay for an asset versus the amount you get when you sell it. Additionally, there are two ways capital gains are taxed, based on how long you hold an asset.

If you hold an asset for a year before selling it, you’re in the sweet spot to qualify for a favorable long term capital gains rate. However, if you sell before a year, you’ll be taxed at a higher rate for a short term capital gain.

The good news is that there are plenty of tips for staying tax-free to get the perks of a capital gain without the penalties.

1. Invest in a Tax-Deferred Savings Plan

A capital gains tax liability isn’t triggered when you buy or sell securities within tax-deferred retirement plans. This includes Roth IRAs, traditional IRAs, SDIRAS, and 401(k) plans.

Your capital gains won’t be taxed until you begin withdrawing funds from your account. This strategy isn’t just delaying pain until that day. Capital gains are taxed at your ordinary income rate. so people who slide into lower tax brackets after retirement can benefit.

What’s more, any Roth IRA and 401(k) funds specifically are immune to capital gains taxes under some conditions.

2. 1031 Exchange

Are you planning to be a repeat investor? Some perpetual property investors never get stuck holding the bag with capital gains because they take advantage of the 1031 exchange loophole.

Section 1031 of the U.S. Internal Revenue Code allows you to avoid paying gains taxes after selling an investment as long as you reinvest the proceeds from the sale within a certain window of time. The stipulation is that you must reinvest in a similar property that’s of greater or equal value to the one you sold. However, this strategy is a great way to raise capital for real estate.

3. The Primary Residence Exclusion

What exactly is the primary residence exclusion? This little-known IRS rule allows people who meet specific criteria to exclude $250,000 (single filers) to $500,000 (married filing jointly) in capital gains tax after making a profit from selling a home. Here’s what’s required:

• The home you sold was your true primary residence.
• You’ve owned and used your home as your main residence for at least two out of the five years prior to its sale date.
• You haven’t already used the primary residence exclusion for another home during the two-year period before the sale of your home.

You must report the sale of your home even if your gain is considered excludable. The IRS also provides some exceptions for the five-year usage test. Homeowners on extended duty in the military or intelligence community may be eligible to have the period bumped up to 10 years.

4. Donate to Charity

One of the smartest ways to offset capital gains if you cannot avoid selling assets when your income places you in a high tax bracket is to utilize tax deductions for charitable donations. An accountant may be able to help you donate the right amount to slide into a lower bracket to avoid a larger-than-necessary tax bill. This strategy applies if you’re itemizing your deductions.

5. Offset Gains With Losses

A capital loss is any loss on the sale of a capital asset. This includes stocks, bonds, and investment real estate. Capital losses are actually divided into long-term and short-term losses using the same calendar used for measuring long-term and short-term gains.

In fact, short-term and long-term losses are actually first deducted against short-term gains and long-term gains. While tax laws are always changing, you can generally expect to be able to deduct an overall net capital loss for the year against salary, interest income, and other forms of income. Excess net capital losses can also be carried over to future tax years.

6. Invest in Long-Term Stocks

This next tip shouldn’t necessarily be done without the help of a tax professional. One slightly intricate way to potentially defer capital gains tax until 2026 is by investing unrealized capital gains within 180 days of a stock sale into something called an Opportunity Fund.

In addition, some investors take advantage of small business stocks to have up to $10 million in capital gains excluded from income.

The trick is understanding how to invest during inflation to counteract any losses.

8. Figure Out Your Cost Basis

You can keep more of your capital gains by subtracting the cost basis from your sale price. How you calculate cost basis can impact your capital gain rate. Many people find that adjusting the original purchase price to account for commissions and fees can reduce taxable gains.

9. Gift to Someone or Move Somewhere With a Lower Tax Bracket

Finally, some creative strategies are available if you’re stuck with paying capital gains based on the way your sale price intersects with your income bracket. For example, consider gifting the appreciated asset to a family member instead of selling it.

The IRS currently allows taxpayers to gift a person between $16,000 (single filer) and $32,000 (couple filing jointly) without needing to file a gift tax return. When you gift the asset to another person, the gains are taxed based on that person’s income instead of your income. Just be cautious about using this strategy to gift assets to children or students under the age of 24 because dependents are taxed at the same rates as their parents.

Final Thoughts on How to Avoid Capital Gains Tax

The key to understanding capital gains is knowing that the tax code rewards investors in it for the long game. The simplest way to avoid capital gains tax when selling an investment asset is to get past the one-year threshold for ownership before selling.

Capital gains are taxed based on your ordinary income rate, so reducing income through losses, donations, or other means is the other strong alternative for avoiding a huge tax hit.

Have you ever felt like the secret world of Self-Directed IRA (SDIRA) real estate investing is an exclusive club, and you’re left standing outside?

It’s where people grow their wealth, build financial stability, and enjoy tax advantages. But how can you get past that velvet rope?

You might think it’s all about knowing the right people or having stacks of money. Yet, it’s more than that.

I’ll open those doors to reveal a path for anyone with drive and determination, uncovering how SDIRAs unlock new realms in real estate investing, from buying properties to earning rental income.

This isn’t just theory; these are actionable strategies backed by IRS rules that let you harness your IRA funds for property investments.

Understanding SDIRA Real Estate

Self-directed IRAs are a great way to diversify your retirement savings and get your feet wet with real estate investments.

Unlike traditional IRAs, an SDIRA offers more control and broader investment options—particularly regarding real estate investing.

This means that alongside regular investments like stocks or bonds, you can also use your IRA funds for buying property, including:

• Single-family homes
• Multifamily units
• Raw land
• Commercial real estate
• Storage units

You might wonder how this all works. The key is understanding that any property purchased must be held by the IRA rather than personally owned. So, while your name won’t grace the title deed, it’s still part of your overall wealth portfolio.

This arrangement opens up exciting opportunities for potential growth through rental income or appreciation over time–all while tax-free!

Tax Benefits Unleashed: Supercharge Your Investment Returns

One reason I love investing primarily with a Self-Directed IRA is because of the tax benefits I receive from all my earnings. In effect, your SDIRA acts as a tax shield, allowing you to collect earnings in your account without paying a dime on capital gains.

Simply imagine how far your account can grow through compound interest by keeping all of your earnings.

Investors like Peter Thiel have used these benefits to amass billions of dollars, and I have used Self-Directed IRAs and other financial vehicles to manage over $1.3 billion in real estate transactions.

The Benefits of SDIRA Real Estate Investing

Investing in real estate with an SDIRA can offer numerous advantages. Let’s explore some key benefits, starting with the power to diversify your retirement savings.

• Diversify Your Portfolio Retirement Plan with Real Estate: – Adding real estate to your investment mix can give you higher returns and reduce risk because property values tend not to move directly in line with stock or bond markets. Studies show that owning different types of assets helps create a more balanced portfolio. And who doesn’t want stability when it comes to their nest egg?
• Acting as a Tax Shield: – Your investments grow on a tax-advantaged basis, which means profits from rental income or capital gains are either deferred or eliminated depending on whether you hold a Traditional IRA or Roth IRA.
• Several Investment Options Available: – Self-directed IRAs allow for much leeway regarding real estate investments, including dipping your toes in tax liens, wholesaling, house flipping, and more.

Navigating the Rules and Regulations of SDIRAs

Investing in real estate through a Self-Directed IRA is not just about identifying profitable properties. Navigating the guidelines established by the IRS is a key component of SDIRA investing.

Understanding Prohibited Transactions in SDIRAs

The IRS sets certain boundaries, known as prohibited transactions, for your Self-Directed IRA. Unfortunately, your account may face severe penalties if these rules are broken.

An essential part of navigating these waters is understanding who qualifies as a disqualified person according to IRS guidelines. This list includes:

• You
• Your spouse
• Lineal ascendants or descendants and their spouses
• Anyone providing services to your IRA, like an advisor or manager

A common prohibited transaction is directly buying property for personal use with SDIRA funds.

But did you know that even lending money from your retirement account to a disqualified person can lead to penalties? To prevent any potential mishaps, always consult with your IRA custodian before making any significant moves.

The Bankruptcy Abuse Prevention and Consumer Protection Act further complicates things when considering debt-financed real estate within an SDIRA structure.

For instance, using a non-recourse loan might subject part of your profit–specifically the debt-financed portion–to tax, which otherwise would be tax-deferred or tax-free until distribution.

Setting Up Your SDIRA for Real Estate Investing

When it comes to investing in real estate through an SDIRA, the setup process is crucial.

With the right steps, you can turn your retirement account into a powerful vehicle for property investments.

The first step is finding a trustworthy SDIRA custodian, such as the Horizon Trust Company, which I built to ease the process.

This professional will handle transactions on behalf of your IRA, so make sure they’re well-versed in dealing with real estate assets.

You’ll need to transfer funds from your existing retirement account or personal savings into this new self-directed one. Luckily, your custodian will be able to make the process simple.

Selecting and Purchasing Property Through Your SDIRA

The next part involves selecting suitable investment properties. The great news? You aren’t limited just to residential units; commercial properties, undeveloped land, and even REITs are viable options for purchase.

To purchase property using your SDIRA funds, you must direct your custodian accordingly. They’ll execute all necessary paperwork—keeping things legal and above board while ensuring no tax penalties along the way.

One way to bypass the custodian role is to open an LLC with your SDIRA, granting you what is known as checkbook control.

Maintaining Compliance Throughout Investment Life Cycle

Your role doesn’t end after purchasing an asset; ongoing compliance is key. Rental income must go straight back into your account.

Also, keep tabs on any potential expenses related directly to maintaining the said property, be it repairs or improvements, as these must also be paid out from your SDIRA funds.

Jumping into real estate investment with a Self-Directed IRA might feel overwhelming. But, armed with the right know-how and advice, you could reap significant rewards.

Read More: How to Use Your SDIRA to Invest in Real Estate in a Hot Market.

Financing Options for SDIRA Real Estate Investments

One reason I love investing with retirement money is because most of it is sitting dormant for someone to invest.

However, if you don’t have a big enough nest egg saved up, there are still plenty of financing options available.

Non-Recourse Loans

In essence, non-recourse loans are unique because they only use the property purchased with the loan as collateral. This form of borrowing stands out due to its compatibility with IRS rules.

If default occurs, lenders can take back only that specific asset and cannot pursue any additional compensation even if they sell it at a loss.

Equity Trusts

Beyond non-recourse loans lies another avenue for funding—equity trusts. These function by pooling together multiple investors’ money into one pot, which then gets used to fund larger-scale projects that would be beyond each individual investor’s reach alone.

An advantage here is diversification. Since your funds are spread across several properties rather than being tied up in just one place, this reduces risk while still offering attractive returns.

Each financing option has different implications on things like contribution limits and IRS regulations regarding prohibited transactions.

Always consult professionals or trusted sources when dealing with complex financial matters to ensure you’re making informed decisions that align with your investment goals and risk tolerance.

Risks and Considerations in SDIRA Real Estate Investing

Real estate investing with a Self-Directed IRA (SDIRA) can be quite rewarding, but it’s not without risks.

Fees and Paperwork: The Devil’s In The Details

A key consideration when venturing into SDIRA real estate investing is the fees associated with maintaining your account and transacting properties. Be prepared for plenty of paperwork, too. You don’t want unexpected costs eating into your profits.

The Need For Capital: It Takes Money To Make Money.

To get started with real estate through an SDIRA, you’ll need substantial initial capital; remember that investment property isn’t cheap. Ensure you have enough funds set aside before diving headfirst into this venture.

Beware of Disqualified Persons

You cannot use your Self-Directed IRA to buy property for personal use or sell property to close relatives. Keep yourself informed about who counts as disqualified persons.

A Financial Path to Generational Wealth

Now that you understand all of the rules and strategies governing Self-Directed IRA real estate investing, it’s up to you to execute what you’ve learned. Real estate is not without its risk, and it takes a very risk-averse person to make money.

Mistakes will be made along the way, and money may be lost. But at the end of this journey, you’ll be thankful you took the leap. There is no better financial vehicle to generational wealth than real estate and no better plan to get you there than a Self-Directed IRA.

FAQs: SDIRA Real Estate Guide

Can I use my existing IRA for real estate investments?

Yes, you can convert your existing Traditional IRA or Roth IRA into a Self-Directed IRA to invest in real estate. However, you’ll need to choose a custodian or trustee specializing in Self-Directed IRAs, as not all IRA providers offer this option.

How do I find a reputable custodian for my Self-Directed IRA?

Finding a reputable custodian is crucial. Start by researching and comparing different Self-Directed IRA custodians or administrators. Look for experienced firms with a solid track record, good customer reviews, and transparent fee structures. It’s also essential to choose a custodian that specializes in real estate investments.

Are there any restrictions on the type of real estate I can invest in?

While Self-Directed IRAs offer many investment options, some restrictions exist. You cannot invest in life insurance contracts or collectibles like art or antiques. However, you can invest in various types of real estate, including residential, commercial, and even raw land.

Navigating the intricate world of real estate taxes can be daunting, but mastering it can lead to significant financial advantages.

This article unveils the lesser-known tax strategies that have helped the wealthiest realtors maximize their profits.

Get ready to transform your approach to taxes and unlock the full potential of that realtor work, regardless of whether you’re selling commercial spaces or homes on the side.

What Exactly are Tax Loopholes?

Tax loopholes are provisions or omissions in the tax code that provide opportunities to reduce tax liability. These are not mere oversights but often deliberate inclusions meant to promote certain activities or investments.

For realtors, tax loopholes are the keys to unlocking strategies that keep more profit from each transaction and investment in your pocket rather than the government’s coffers.

The Power of Tax Loopholes for Realtors

Realtors operate in a unique business environment where income can be highly variable and dependent on market conditions. In such a landscape, tax loopholes serve as critical tools for:

• Enhancing Cash Flow: By reducing tax liabilities, realtors can ensure a more consistent and fluid cash flow, crucial for both the lean and boom times in the real estate cycle.
• Encouraging Investments: Certain tax loopholes are designed to promote investment in properties, renovations, and community development. Understanding and leveraging these can not only reduce your tax burden but also contribute to a realtor’s portfolio expansion and the community’s growth.
• Providing Competitive Edge: In a highly competitive market, the ability to navigate and leverage tax codes effectively can give realtors an edge, allowing for more aggressive pricing strategies, better investment returns, and overall financial health.

How to Navigate and Leverage Tax Loopholes

Leveraging tax loopholes requires diligence, foresight, and, sometimes, creativity. Here’s how you can start:

• Stay Informed: Tax laws evolve, and staying abreast of the changes is crucial. Regularly consulting with tax professionals or attending seminars can provide insights into new and existing loopholes.
• Keep Immaculate Records: Proper documentation is key. Whether it’s for depreciation, expenses, or charitable contributions, detailed records can provide the foundation for leveraging tax loopholes effectively.
• Understand the Implications: Not all tax strategies are created equal, and some can carry risks or complications down the line. Understanding the long-term impact of leveraging a loophole is crucial to ensure it aligns with your overall financial strategy.
• Consult with Professionals: The complexity of the tax code often necessitates professional advice. A trusted accountant or tax advisor specializing in real estate can provide tailored strategies that align with your goals and risk tolerance.

Navigating Pass-Through Deductions: A Game-Changer for Realtors

The landscape of taxation for real estate professionals transformed significantly with the introduction of pass-through deductions, a pivotal change stemming from recent tax law revisions. These deductions represent a vital shift, empowering owners of pass-through entities to retain more of their income by significantly lowering their taxable bracket. For realtors, understanding and capitalizing on these deductions can not only enhance net earnings but also strategically position their business for greater financial success.

Understanding Pass-Through Entities and Their Tax Implications

Pass-through entities include structures like sole proprietorships, partnerships, limited liability companies (LLCs), and S corporations.

Unlike corporations, these entities don’t pay income taxes at the business level. Instead, the income ‘passes through’ to the business owners or partners, who then report it on their personal tax returns. While this avoids the double taxation faced by C corporations, it also subjects the income to individual tax rates, which can be substantial. Here lies the significance of pass-through deductions.

The Impact of Pass-Through Deductions

The Tax Cuts and Jobs Act introduced the Qualified Business Income (QBI) deduction, allowing eligible taxpayers to deduct up to 20% of their qualified business income from a pass-through entity. This deduction effectively reduces the maximum tax rate on this income, significantly lowering the tax burden for realtors and other professionals operating through pass-through entities.

Maximizing Your Benefit from Pass-Through Deductions

To fully leverage pass-through deductions, it’s crucial to understand the eligibility criteria, the nature of income that qualifies, and the limitations imposed by the tax regulations:

• Know Your Eligibility: Not all business income qualifies for the QBI deduction. Generally, the income must be earned within the United States, and specific service-based businesses, such as health, law, and consulting, face additional limitations after a certain income threshold.
• Understand the Limitations: The deduction is subject to limitations based on your taxable income, with phase-out thresholds that can reduce or eliminate the deduction for higher earners. Additionally, the deduction can be limited based on the amount of W-2 wages paid by the business or the unadjusted basis of qualified property held by the business.
• Strategize Your Income: If your income approaches the phase-out thresholds, consider strategies to defer income or accelerate deductions to maximize your eligibility for the QBI deduction.
• Consider the Structure of Your Business: The structure of your real estate business can significantly impact your eligibility and the benefits you can derive from pass-through deductions. Consult with a tax professional to determine the most advantageous structure for your specific circumstances.
• Stay Informed and Compliant: Tax laws and interpretations can evolve, impacting the applicability and calculation of pass-through deductions. Regular consultations with tax advisors can help you navigate these changes, ensuring you remain compliant while optimizing your tax benefits.

For realtors and professionals navigating the complex realm of real estate investments, the introduction of pass-through deductions offers a promising avenue for tax optimization.

By understanding the nuances of these deductions and aligning your business strategy accordingly, you can secure a more favorable tax position, ensuring that a more significant portion of your hard-earned income contributes to building your financial future.

As with all tax strategies, the key to maximizing benefits lies in informed decision-making, meticulous planning, and staying attuned to the ever-evolving tax landscape.

Optimizing Your Workspace: Mastering Home Office Deductions for Realtors

In today’s dynamic world, where the lines between home and work blur, the home office has emerged as a central feature in many professionals’ lives, especially for realtors. More than just a personal workspace, your home office can be a powerful tool for tax savings. Understanding and applying the criteria for home office deductions can substantially lower your tax bill, turning a part of your home into a tax-saving asset.

Qualifying for Home Office Deductions: The Basics

To capitalize on home office deductions, it’s crucial to meet the IRS criteria, which ensure that the space is genuinely used for business purposes. Here are the fundamental requirements you must satisfy:

• Regular and Exclusive Use: Your home office must be used regularly and exclusively for conducting business. This means the space should be a dedicated area of your home where personal activities don’t mix with professional ones.
• Principal Place of Your Business: Your home office should be the principal place where you conduct your business. This can include administrative activities, even if you meet clients or perform real estate services elsewhere.

Maximizing Your Home Office Deductions

Once you qualify for home office deductions, the next step is to maximize this benefit. Here are strategies to ensure you’re making the most of your home office:

• Maintain Meticulous Records: Keep detailed logs of your time on real estate activities, ensuring you can substantiate your claim to the IRS if required.

• Understand the Deduction Methods: The IRS offers two methods for calculating home office deductions – the simplified option (a standard deduction based on the square footage of your office) and the regular method (deducting actual expenses). Evaluate which method is more beneficial for you based on your situation.
• Document Your Expenses: If using the regular method, meticulously document all expenses related to your home office. This can include a portion of your rent or mortgage interest, property taxes, utilities, repairs, and maintenance directly related to your home office space.
• Consider Depreciation: If you own your home, you can also depreciate the portion of your home used as an office, further reducing your tax obligation. However, be aware of the potential tax implications if you sell your home at a profit in the future.
• Keep Accurate Records: The key to defending your deductions if questioned by the IRS is keeping accurate, detailed records. Document the size of your home office, how you calculated deductions, and all relevant expenses.
• Stay Updated on Tax Law Changes: Tax laws can change, and so can interpretations of those laws. Stay informed about any changes that might affect your home office deductions.

For realtors, the home office deduction is not just about recognizing the cost of doing business; it’s about strategically transforming your living space into a tax-efficient component of your professional success.

By thoroughly understanding and meticulously applying the rules for home office deductions, you can ensure that every square foot of your home office works not just for your business but for your financial well-being, too.

Remember, when in doubt, consult with a tax professional to tailor your approach to your specific circumstances, maximizing your benefits while staying compliant with IRS regulations.

Mileage Mastery: Unlocking the Potential of Vehicle and Travel Expense Deductions for Realtors

For realtors, the vehicle is more than just a mode of transportation; it’s an integral part of the business. The miles you drive to meet clients, showcase properties, or scout new listings can become significant deductions, reducing your taxable income and enhancing your financial efficiency. Similarly, travel expenses for business-related trips offer similar opportunities for tax deductions.

Understanding how to accurately track and deduct these expenses is crucial in optimizing your tax benefits and ensuring every mile and trip counts towards your business success.

Mastering Mileage Deductions

Mileage deductions can offer substantial savings, but they require diligent tracking and a clear understanding of IRS rules. Here’s how to ensure your vehicle expenses work in your favor:

• Know the IRS Mileage Rate: Each year, the IRS sets a standard mileage rate, a per-mile amount you can deduct for business-related driving. This rate covers not just gas but also wear and tear on your vehicle.
• Maintain Detailed Records: The IRS requires accurate records to substantiate your deductions. Keep a logbook in your vehicle or use a mileage tracking app to record every business-related trip, noting the date, mileage, purpose, and destination.
• Understand What Counts as Business Mileage: Driving to meet clients, view properties, or attend real estate events counts as business mileage. Commuting from your home to your office doesn’t qualify, but driving from your office to meet a client does.

Navigating Travel Expense Deductions

Travel expenses for business-related trips can also be deducted, but they must be ordinary, necessary, and directly related to your real estate business. Here’s how to make the most of your travel expense deductions:

• Distinguish Between Business and Personal Travel: For a trip to be deductible, the primary purpose must be business. If you combine business with pleasure, you can only deduct the expenses directly related to the business portion.
• Keep Receipts and Records: Retain all receipts and maintain records of your travel expenses, including airfare, hotel accommodations, meals, and other travel-related costs. Detailed records will substantiate your deductions and protect you in case of an IRS inquiry.
• Understand Meal Deductions: While on business travel, you can deduct 50% of your meal expenses. However, these meals should not be lavish or extravagant, and you should keep a record of the cost, the business relationship of the person you dined with, and the business purpose of the meal.

For realtors, vehicle and travel expenses represent not just necessary costs of doing business but also potential tax-saving opportunities.

By diligently tracking your mileage and travel expenses, understanding IRS rules, and accurately documenting your expenditures, you can ensure that these costs effectively reduce your taxable income. As with all tax strategies, consulting with a tax professional can provide personalized advice, ensuring your deductions are maximized and compliant with current tax laws.

Strategizing Family Involvement: The Perks and Pitfalls of Hiring Family Members

Incorporating family members into your real estate business isn’t just about keeping operations within the family; it’s a strategic move that can yield significant tax advantages and contribute to the growth and sustainability of your business.

However, navigating the intricacies of hiring family members requires a keen understanding of the benefits, potential drawbacks, and IRS rules to ensure you remain compliant while optimizing your financial benefits.

Understanding the Benefits of Hiring Family Members

• Tax-Saving Opportunities: Employing family members legitimately allows you to shift income from your higher tax bracket to their lower one. For example, children hired in the family business can earn income up to the standard deduction amount tax-free. This strategy can significantly reduce your overall family tax burden.
• FICA and FUTA Savings: If your business is structured as a sole proprietorship or partnership (where the partners are the parents of the child), wages paid to your children under the age of 18 are not subject to Social Security and Medicare taxes. Furthermore, wages for children under 21 are exempt from Federal Unemployment Tax Act (FUTA) taxes.
• Business Expense Deductions: Wages paid to family members are generally deductible as business expenses, provided the compensation is reasonable for the work performed, and the work is indeed necessary for your operations.

Key Considerations and Compliance with IRS Rules

While the benefits are compelling, it’s paramount to navigate this path with caution and due diligence:

• Formal Employment Relationship: Ensure the employment relationship is formalized with proper documentation. Employed family members should have clear job descriptions, work schedules, and their compensation must be in line with industry standards for similar roles.
• Adherence to Labor Laws: Be mindful of labor laws, particularly for younger family members. There are regulations regarding the number of hours they can work, the types of work they can perform, and the conditions under which they can work.
• Documenting and Reporting: Maintain meticulous records of hours worked, duties performed, and wages paid. All compensation must be reported to the IRS, and appropriate payroll taxes must be withheld and remitted.

Leveraging Retirement Plans and Education Funds

In addition to immediate tax benefits, employing family members can open avenues for future financial planning:

• Contributions to Retirement Plans: If your business has a retirement plan, you can contribute to your family member’s retirement savings. Plans, such as a self-directed IRA, allow you to even conduct real estate activity inside your tax-advantaged retirement account–effectively eliminating capital gains taxes. Consider looking into specific retirement plans for self-employed individuals.
• Educational Assistance Programs: Employing your child can provide an opportunity to contribute to their education through tax-advantaged 529 college savings plans or Coverdell accounts, leveraging their income for education expenses in a tax-efficient manner.

Hiring family members in your real estate business can be a win-win situation, offering substantial tax advantages while involving your loved ones in your entrepreneurial journey. However, it’s essential to approach this strategy with a comprehensive understanding of tax laws, labor regulations, and proper documentation practices.

With careful planning and adherence to legal guidelines, you can ensure this family affair not only complies with IRS stipulations but also contributes significantly to your business’s financial health and your family’s future prosperity.

Capitalizing on Insurance Premium Deductions

For realtors, insurance isn’t just a prudent risk management strategy; it’s also a potential avenue for tax savings. The premiums you pay to protect your business, your health, and your property can, in many cases, be deducted, lowering your taxable income and reducing your overall tax burden.

However, navigating the landscape of insurance premium deductions requires an understanding of which premiums are deductible, how they can be leveraged effectively, and the nuances of tax regulations surrounding them.

Types of Deductible Insurance Premiums

A variety of insurance premiums are potentially deductible for realtors, each serving a different aspect of your personal and professional life:

• Health Insurance Premiums: Self-employed realtors can deduct 100% of their health insurance premiums for themselves, their spouse, and dependents. This deduction is taken as an adjustment to income, meaning you can benefit from it whether you itemize deductions or not.
• Professional Liability Insurance: Premiums paid for professional liability or errors and omissions insurance, which protect against the costs of being sued for negligence or mistakes in professional services, are fully deductible as business expenses.
• Property Insurance: Insurance premiums for property used in your business, such as your office space or a car used for business purposes, can also be deducted as a business expense.
• Workers’ Compensation Insurance: If you have employees, the premiums for workers’ compensation insurance are deductible business expenses.

Maximizing the Benefit of Insurance Premium Deductions

To ensure you’re making the most of the potential deductions your insurance premiums can offer:

• Keep Comprehensive Records: Maintain detailed records of all insurance premiums paid throughout the year. Be prepared to provide documentation to substantiate these expenses in case of an IRS inquiry.
• Understand the Limitations: There are limitations and considerations to be aware of. For example, the deduction for health insurance premiums is not available if you’re eligible to participate in a health insurance plan subsidized either by your employer (if you have a job in addition to your real estate business) or your spouse’s employer.
• Deduct Only Business-Related Premiums: Ensure that the premiums you’re deducting are strictly for policies that relate to your business operations. Personal insurance premiums are not deductible as business expenses.
• Consult with a Tax Professional: Insurance and tax laws are complex and subject to change. A tax professional can provide personalized advice based on the latest regulations and your specific circumstances.

Insurance premiums, while a necessary business expenditure, need not be a financial burden. By understanding and applying the tax rules regarding insurance premium deductions, realtors can significantly reduce their taxable income and enhance their financial health. Diligent record-keeping, a thorough understanding of applicable deductions, and professional guidance are key to effectively navigating this aspect of your tax strategy, ensuring that your insurance policies provide not only protection but also tax efficiency.

Elevating Your Tax Strategy: The Advantages of Real Estate Professional Status

For individuals deeply involved in the real estate industry, attaining the status of a real estate professional isn’t just a title—it’s a strategic move that can unlock a realm of tax benefits, setting you apart from the average investor.

This coveted status, recognized by the IRS, offers unique tax advantages that can significantly enhance your financial landscape. However, claiming this status requires meeting specific criteria and a thorough understanding of how it can transform your tax strategy.

Qualifications for Real Estate Professional Status

The IRS sets clear standards for what constitutes a real estate professional, primarily focusing on the amount of time you spend on real estate activities. To qualify:

• Hours Requirement: You must spend at least 750 hours per year on real estate activities in which you materially participate.
• Majority of Work Time in Real Estate: The time you spend on real estate activities must be more than 50% of the total time you spend on all work-related activities.
• Material Participation: You must be actively involved in the real estate ventures. Passive investments don’t count towards the real estate professional status.

The Tax Benefits of Real Estate Professional Status

Achieving this status can profoundly impact your tax situation:

• Avoiding the Passive Activity Loss Limitations: Normally, losses from passive activities, such as rental property investments, can only be used to offset passive income, not active income like wages. However, as a real estate professional, you can deduct losses from your real estate activities from your active income, significantly reducing your overall tax burden. This means you could pay next to no taxes on your rental income.
• Depreciation Deductions: Real estate professionals can take more substantial depreciation deductions, offsetting income and lowering tax liabilities.
• Net Investment Income Tax (NIIT) Avoidance: Real estate professionals can avoid the 3.8% NIIT typically imposed on investment income, including rental income and capital gains from property sales.

Maximizing the Benefits of Real Estate Professional Status

To fully leverage the tax advantages of real estate professional status, consider the following strategies:

• Maintain Meticulous Records: Keep detailed logs of your time on real estate activities, ensuring you can substantiate your claim to the IRS if required.
• Understand the Material Participation Tests: Familiarize yourself with the IRS’s material participation tests to ensure your activities qualify.
• Group Your Real Estate Activities: The IRS allows real estate professionals to group multiple real estate activities into one larger activity to meet the material participation requirements. This can be particularly beneficial if you have multiple properties or real estate ventures.
• Consult with Tax Professionals: Navigating the complex criteria and maintaining real estate professional status can be challenging. Tax professionals specializing in real estate can provide valuable guidance and ensure your activities and deductions are well-documented and compliant with IRS regulations.

Achieving real estate professional status is more than a designation; it’s a proactive approach to tax planning that can yield significant savings and benefits.

By understanding the qualifications, strategically planning your activities, and leveraging the unique tax benefits this status offers, you can transform your tax strategy, reduce your liability, and enhance your profitability in the real estate market. With careful planning and professional advice, the real estate professional status can be a cornerstone of your financial success.

You’re now armed with knowledge that should help keep more money where it belongs, in your pocket. Put these strategies into play and watch your financial health strengthen every year.

Ever stared at a towering skyscraper and wondered how it started? A single blueprint, one solid foundation, and countless bricks built over time. It’s not too different from how to scale and grow your real estate business.

The same principles apply – start with a strong plan, build on the right strategies brick by brick, be patient yet persistent.

In this video, packed with insights from industry titans like Kent Clothier and others who’ve successfully scaled their own real estate empires, you’ll discover the key elements needed for success in this dynamic field. 

From leveraging self-directed IRAs to maximizing returns through savvy investing tactics to mastering Kent’s P5 formula that streamlines your growth journey, there are gold nuggets here for everyone eager enough to dig deeper.

Ready to architect your path toward becoming an accomplished real estate mogul? 

The Power of Self-Directed IRAs in Real Estate Investing

When it comes to real estate investing, one tool stands out as a powerhouse for wealth building: the self-directed IRA. This specific retirement account gives you the advantage of having more power over your investments, and it opens up possibilities in the profitable realm of real estate.

A self-directed IRA allows investors to funnel their funds into alternative investment vehicles like real estate properties, providing an edge against traditional stocks or bonds. SDIRAs also provide a great source of capital for real estate investments or other high-equity investments. It’s no wonder that savvy investors are turning towards this form of passive income generation [Learn More: Leveraging Retirement Accounts in Real Estate with Gerg Herlean and Ryan Pineda].

Leveraging Retirement Accounts for Consistent Returns

Unfortunately, the stock market is no longer the reliable vehicle for steady growth it once was. Between diminishing returns and increased volatility, many are turning to alternative solutions. That’s why many individuals have started using old 401(k)s and other retirement accounts to invest in real estate, which offers consistent returns.

This strategy not only ensures steady cash flow but also aids in deferring taxes on rental income or property equity–a perk that increases your compound interest. By strategically building wealth through these channels, you can expect significant business gains while maintaining peace of mind regarding future growth.

Unlocking Retirement Accounts for Investments

Firms like Horizon Trust Company enable people to unlock their retirement accounts specifically for investments. They guide individuals on how they can use these assets effectively within legal boundaries without having them locked away until retirement age hits.

In fact, with proper guidance from such companies, along with careful analysis and strategic decisions based on market conditions, there is potential for a substantial return on investment beyond what most conventional financial plans offer.

Kent Clothier’s Journey in Scaling Real Estate Businesses

What can a grocery store worker teach us about scaling real estate businesses? If you’re talking about Kent Clothier, the answer is: a lot. The successful real estate business owner started his career at an everyday grocery store and ended up buying it for seven figures.

The Role of Education and Masterminds in Business Growth

Education plays a pivotal role in entrepreneurial success. Kent encourages all investors to network with other investors to learn from their experience and apply their lessons to their investment strategy.

Clothier’s decade-long friendship with Greg Herlean opened new avenues for learning, which helped him shape his successful real estate business strategies.

Beyond just doing deals, this relationship also lets them share insights on how best to grow their respective companies. They discuss everything from marketing materials to analyzing website analytics and leveraging their skill set to manage payment plans effectively.

Implementing the P5 Formula for Business Success

In real estate, achieving success is a combination of various elements working together. One proven strategy that has helped many real estate investors succeed is Kent’s P5 formula. This powerful approach revolves around identifying prospects, defining processes, maximizing profits, and measuring progress.

Identifying Prospects in Real Estate

The first step in this journey toward success involves pinpointing potential opportunities or prospects. You might need to use social media platforms or other lead-generation tools to find them. But remember – not all leads are created equal. It’s essential to distinguish between potential customers who can advance your organization and those who won’t offer much in the way of benefit.

A crucial part of this process often involves working with reliable real estate agents who understand the market dynamics and have an extensive network at their disposal. A seasoned agent will give you access to deals before they hit mainstream channels like direct mail listings.

Defining Processes for Efficient Property Management

The second component entails setting up effective systems.

To effectively manage properties under your care as a property manager requires implementing robust strategies that save time yet provide maximum results – think automation.

This two-pronged focus on prospect identification and process definition forms an integral part of Kent’s celebrated P5 formula—a testament that it isn’t just about having resources; what counts more is how well you use them.

Building a Successful Real Estate Portfolio

Growing your real estate business requires strategic planning and savvy decision-making. One key strategy is building a solid real estate portfolio.

Holding Properties as Assets

Real estate investing strategies often revolve around buying properties to hold as assets. These can serve as steady sources of income, especially if you have renters providing regular payments.

In the words of seasoned professionals like Kent Clothier, holding properties long-term is one-way successful real estate investors build wealth. It’s not just about quick flips; it’s also about creating sustainable cash flow that keeps your business running smoothly even in fluctuating market conditions.

You don’t need to start big—small investments made wisely can lead to substantial growth over time. Remember: Rome wasn’t built in a day.

Horizon Trust, where I work closely with clients on their investment strategies, often sees this approach yield impressive results for our customers who are scaling up their portfolios using self-directed IRAs or 401(k)s.

FAQs: How to Scale and Grow Your Real Estate Business

What are the key elements of a successful real estate business plan?

A successful real estate business plan should include:

• Clear identification of target markets and demographics.
• Well-defined short-term and long-term goals.
• Comprehensive financial planning and budgeting.
• Strategies for effective resource allocation and cash flow management.

How can technology enhance property management processes?

Technology can enhance property management by:

• Streamlining operations through property management software.
• Improving communication with clients using customer relationship management (CRM) tools.
• Automating routine tasks to increase efficiency.
• Providing real-time data for better decision-making.

What are the benefits of strategic partnerships in the real estate industry?

Strategic partnerships in the real estate industry provide networking opportunities within the industry, the potential for joint ventures and collaborative projects, cross-promotion with other real estate professionals, and increased community involvement with diversified business opportunities.

Ever wondered how to make your golden years truly sparkle? Imagine yourself lying on a beach, the grains of sand beneath your body and tranquil ocean waves lapping in the background. But wait! It’s not just any vacation; it’s one funded by savvy investments made using something you already have: retirement accounts.

A little-known secret is that these aren’t limited to stocks or bonds; they can be a stepping stone into real estate investments, too. 

Just like discovering an old treasure map leading straight to buried gold, many Americans are sitting on dormant 401(k)s without even realizing their potential power.

We’re about to take an exciting journey exploring this less-traveled path toward wealth creation and financial security for those twilight years.

Get ready. We’re about to dive deep into self-directed IRAs. We’ll explore ways you can tap into your dormant 401(k) accounts for better financial control and future planning.

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Understanding Retirement Accounts and Their Potential

The potential of retirement accounts extends far beyond traditional savings. These accounts, in fact, serve as potent financial tools that can unlock a world of investment opportunities.

Retirement accounts are widespread across the United States. The Social Security Administration reveals an astonishing statistic: there are over 130 million retirement accounts totaling more than $13 trillion. 

This figure paints a picture not only of prevalence but also of the immense financial weight these funds carry within our economy.

Types of Retirement Accounts

Different types offer different benefits. Two of the most popular retirement accounts are 401(k)s and Individual Retirement Accounts (IRAs), both offering distinct benefits. 

A typical 401(k), offered by employers, lets you invest pre-tax dollars, while IRAs allow for both pre and post-tax contributions depending on their type, Traditional or Roth IRA, respectively.

The Power of Self-Directed IRAs

Self-directed Individual Retirement Accounts (SDIRAs) aren’t your typical retirement plans. A Self-Directed IRA is like a hidden ingredient in the kitchen of an expert cook, providing that distinct taste you can’t quite identify but makes everything better.

An SDIRA isn’t much different from traditional or Roth IRAs. But it’s got an edge—think of it as an Olympic sprinter with high-tech shoes. 

It lets you invest not just in stocks and bonds but also in real estate, gold, and even cryptocurrencies. In fact, this flexibility has helped boost its popularity among savvy investors—it’s no surprise there are over 97 million IRAs across the U.S.

Benefits of Self-Directed IRAs

This type of account offers incredible benefits that go beyond conventional investment opportunities. Imagine being able to use tax-advantaged dollars to purchase rental properties or invest in precious metals. It puts control back into your hands—you get to call the shots about where your money goes.

So if diversifying beyond Wall Street sounds good—and let’s face it, who doesn’t want more options?—then maybe a self-directed IRA is just what you need for some serious financial cooking.

Leveraging Dormant 401(k) Accounts for Real Estate Investment

Many of us have dormant 401(k) accounts lying untouched, but did you know they could be a goldmine for real estate investments? With over 30 million inactive accounts in the U.S., there’s immense untapped potential.

Identifying Dormant 401(k) Accounts

Uncovering a dormant 401(k) account is the initial step. It usually happens when we switch jobs and forget to roll over our old account into the new one. Reach out to your previous employers or check your past paperwork; these can help clarify any lingering funds.

The IRS also provides some tools that might assist in this hunt. For instance, their Rollover Chart tells about what types of retirement plans can be rolled into another.

Converting Dormant 401(k)s into Real Estate Investments

Dormant doesn’t mean dead. You can breathe life back by rolling them into a self-directed IRA – it’s like unlocking hidden treasure.

This rollover process lets you invest those funds in non-traditional assets like real estate – which offers potentially higher returns than typical stocks or bonds held by regular IRAs.

Horizon Trust, a custodian specializing in self-directed IRAs, makes this conversion process smooth and compliant with tax laws. They are experts at helping investors make use of such opportunities wisely.

Real-Life Success Stories with Retirement Account Investments

When it comes to using retirement accounts for real estate investments, the stories of successful investors serve as powerful motivators. They prove that these investment strategies are not just theoretical but can lead to tangible results.

Ryan Pineda’s Investment Journey

A prime example is Ryan Pineda, a real estate investor who has effectively leveraged his retirement account into lucrative ventures. His journey started when he decided to tap into his dormant 401(k) and use those funds in the thriving world of real estate investing.

Pineda didn’t simply plunge headlong into this new venture. He first ensured he had all the necessary legal knowledge about using retirement funds for property deals. Then he sought help from Horizon Trust, an established trust company that manages self-directed IRAs.

What’s the takeaway? Pineda’s flourishing career in real estate and various other ventures serves as a shining example. It shows what can be accomplished when you cleverly use your retirement savings to your advantage. “If I managed it,” asserts Pineda, “there’s no doubt that you can too.”

Getting Started with Retirement Account Investments

Beneath the surface of an attractive real estate deal lies a complex web of legalities, requiring careful navigation for successful retirement account investment. But it’s not just about spotting a good deal; you need to understand the game’s rules too.

Understanding the Legalities

Navigating through IRS codes and regulations might seem like deciphering hieroglyphics, but they’re essential to avoid costly penalties. For instance, did you know that using an IRA for personal benefit before reaching 59½ could result in tax liabilities?

Familiarizing yourself with IRS guidelines on self-directed IRAs can save you from potential pitfalls down the line.

Partnering with the Right Trust Company

Your choice of trust company will make or break your journey into real estate investing. A competent custodian doesn’t only help maintain compliance; they provide guidance every step of the way.

The right partner makes all the difference, much like Horizon Trust does by managing over 15,000 accounts and $300 million in assets – quite impressive!

Exploring Investment Opportunities

You don’t have to be a seasoned investor to spot profitable deals. With due diligence and some homework on market trends, even beginners can find hidden gems out there.

For inspiration, look at Ryan Pineda, who turned his baseball career into successful investments leveraging self-directed IRAs for property flips across Nevada.

Leveraging retirement accounts in real estate is no longer a secret. It’s the treasure map you’ve been holding all along.

Remember, self-directed IRAs offer control and tax benefits that can make your golden years shine brighter.

Dormant 401(k)s are not dead ends but untapped opportunities waiting to be explored for wealth creation. Make sure you recognize their potential power!

The success stories we shared underline one key point: With careful planning, investing retirement funds into real estate can yield great rewards.

Take note of legalities and choose a reliable trust company for managing these investments wisely. Explore promising investment avenues as they come along, just like Ryan Pineda did with Iowa properties.

FAQs in Relation to Leveraging Retirement Accounts in Real Estate

Can you use retirement funds to invest in real estate?

Absolutely. With a self-directed IRA or 401(k), you can direct your retirement savings towards real estate investments.

How do you leverage real estate for retirement?

You tap into the power of rental income, property appreciation, and tax advantages by buying properties with your self-directed IRA or 401(k).

Can I leverage my 401k to buy a house?

Yes, but only through specific methods like loan provisions or rollovers into self-directed IRAs that allow investment in real estate.

Can I roll my 401k into real estate?

Sure thing. You’d typically roll over your traditional 401(k) into a Self-Directed IRA, which then allows investing in property.

Learning how to create generational wealth can feel like an uphill battle.

The concept seems elusive, almost mythical. But it’s what separates the paycheck-to-paycheck hustler from the financially free individual.

If you’re unsure about building sustainable wealth that lasts generations, you’ll never reach this level of financial freedom.

Making sense of investments, assets, and smart money moves is tough stuff.

Take, for instance, a young professional who recently told me he feels overwhelmed by all the financial advice out there. He didn’t know where to start in his journey toward creating generational wealth.

No surprise there!

In fact, without proper guidance and knowledge, most people won’t.

But Self-Directed IRAs can change that—and quickly. The video below explains it all.

Join Greg Herlean and Justin Colby as they go in-depth about Self-Directed IRAs. They cover everything from how to start self-directing, how to use a self-directed IRA to invest in real estate, and how to create tax-free gains using creative financing.

Learning More About Self-Directed IRAs

The world of self-directed IRAs is vast and filled with numerous rules and regulations.

Understanding these guidelines not only protects your financial assets but also optimizes their growth potential.

The IRS stipulates specific instructions regarding the permissible types of investments within a Self-Directed IRA, how transactions should be conducted, and what qualifies as prohibited transactions. These can seem intricate at first glance, but this is where expert advice comes into play.

Free Consultation – Understanding Your Options

A no-cost consultation with Horizon Trust–a company I founded that’s a leading provider of retirement account services–can offer invaluable insights to navigate through the intricacies of Self-Directed IRAs effectively.

Horizon Trust offers educational resources designed to boost your overall financial literacy in this area. They believe that well-informed investors make better decisions, and they’re committed to empowering you with the knowledge necessary to create generational wealth.

Remember: Building generational wealth isn’t about quick wins—it’s about making strategic decisions now that will pay off for future generations. And part of those strategic decisions involves proper tax planning—a key aspect where many families lose out due to a lack of knowledge or preparation.

Book today for an enlightening free consultation session and take control of your family’s financial future by exploring how a self-directed IRA might fit into your strategy.

Creating generational wealth is not a myth; it’s achievable.

You’ll need strategic planning and smart investments to achieve your financial goals. Self-directed IRAs offer an effective path toward achieving this goal thanks to their tax advantages, flexible investment options, and potential for creative financing.

Ready to begin your journey towards a secure financial future? Visit Horizon Trust today. Learn more about how self-directed IRAs can help create generational wealth while enjoying the tax benefits they provide.

Unlike workers, self-employed business owners and freelancers often need to figure out their retirement plans on their own.

While some of the rules and regulations surrounding IRAs and 401(k)s can appear a bit confusing, finding the right retirement plan for self-employed people is simple.

What’s more, it’s even possible to create a match plan for employees if you own a small business that employs others.

So, let’s look at the five best retirement accounts for self-employed people to see which is right for you.

What is the Best Retirement Plan for Self-Employed Individuals?

1. Traditional/Roth IRA

Individual retirement accounts are standard retirement accounts, which are great for self-employed people or not offered a retirement plan by their employer. In general, there are two types of individual retirement accounts: Traditional and Roth IRAs.

A Traditional IRA lets you direct pre-tax income toward investments for tax-deferred growth. Capital gains and dividends taxes aren’t assessed until a withdrawal is made.

Roth IRAs allow you to invest post-tax dollars in your account, meaning you won’t get taxed at withdrawal. In essence, this allows you to avoid capital gains in a tax-sheltered account.

Traditional IRA Benefits

• No income limit.
• Allows for some annual tax deductions.
• Tax-deferred growth. No taxes on earnings and contributions until required distributions begin at age 72—73 if you reach age 72 after 12.31.2022. Money earned in a Traditional IRA can also be deductible for the contribution’s tax year.
• Traditional IRAs allow you to invest in nearly all stocks, bonds, mutual funds, and exchange-traded funds (ETFs).
• Unlike 401(k) accounts, IRAs have early withdrawal exceptions that make it possible to take out money to cover expenses for college, adopting a child, buying a first home, and more.

Roth IRA Benefits

• Qualified withdrawals in retirement are entirely tax-free.
• Roth IRAs do not have required minimum distributions (RMDs) during your lifetime.
• Roth IRAs allow you to continue contributing as long as you have earned income, regardless of your age.
• You can withdraw your contributions (but not earnings) at any time without penalties or taxes.
• Roth IRAs can be passed on to your heirs without them having to pay taxes on the distributions, provided certain conditions are met. See more information here.

Primary Differences

• Traditional IRAs allow investment with pre-tax dollars, and Roth IRAs with post-tax dollars.
• Traditional IRAs don’t have income limits, but they have age limits.
• Roth IRAs are not tax deductible, but you won’t ever pay taxes on any withdrawals of contributions.

Both retirement accounts are excellent for self-employed individuals. However, they do come with limited investment options, which makes our next pick that much more appealing.

2. Self-Directed IRA

A self-directed individual retirement account (SDIRA) is an IRA that allows you to invest in alternative assets prohibited by other IRAs. As the name implies, a self-directed IRA gives you full control over your investment decisions.

SDIRAs can be structured like a Roth or Traditional IRA, depending on your anticipated tax bracket at retirement.

Like the traditional IRA, the SDIRA allows you to save for retirement on a tax-advantaged basis.

However, SDIRAs offer greater flexibility regarding investments beyond stocks, bonds, mutual funds, and other common investments. For example, SDIRAs permit investments in:

• Limited liability companies (LLCs).
• Cryptocurrency and crypto staking.
• Limited partnerships (LPs).
• Private hedge funds.
• C corporations.
• Real estate investment trusts (REITs).
• Small businesses.
• Startup companies.

SDIRAs are advantageous because they allow for high returns and greater diversification.

Of course, investing in alternative assets also comes with a bit of risk. SDIRAs also come with higher fees and are administered by a custodian, which differs from your traditional brokerage account.

Almost anyone can open an SDIRA, and rollovers from any tax-advantage account can be completed tax-free.

Be sure to research self-directed IRA investment rules before investing.

Read More: How Do Self-Directed IRAs Work?

3. SEP IRA

Designed for both self-employed workers and small-business owners, Simplified Employee Pension plans (SEP IRA) allow you to set aside income for retirement without the enrollment and operating fees of conventional retirement plans. This is a common option when setting up a simple match plan for employees.

The SEP-IRA rule allows account holders to invest up to 25% of an employee’s compensation (up to $66,000 in 2023), making this a great choice for high-earning individuals. Here’s a rundown on how SEP IRAs work:

• Eligible participants are employees over age 21 who have worked for an employer for at least three of the past five years.
• Eligible employees must have earned at least $650 during 2021 and 2022.
• Employers must match all self-directed distributions for enrolled employees. For instance, an employer who stashes away 10% of their own compensation must contribute 10% to each employee’s compensation.

A SEP IRA can be combined with traditional and Roth IRAs, and all contributions are deductible.

There is no commitment to contribute every year after opening a SEP IRA. Additionally, no catch-up contribution option exists for people aged 50 and over with the SEP.

4. SIMPLE IRA

A Savings Incentive Match Plan for Employees (SIMPLE) IRA is a tax-deferred employer-sponsored retirement plan designed for small businesses with less than 100 employees.

A SIMPLE IRA allows an employer to make either non-elective contributions of 2% of each employee’s salary or dollar-for-dollar matching contributions of each employee’s contributions (up to 3% of salary).

While the maximum annual employee contribution for the SIMPLE IRA is $15,500 (2023), employees reaching age 50 and over can make additional catch-up contributions of $3,500.

5. Solo 401 (k)

Finally, the Solo 401(k) offers many of the same features as employer-sponsored retirement plans but with the added benefit of increased contribution ranges.

To contribute to a solo 401 (k), you must be a business owner with no employees. While the maximum contribution on the solo 401 (k) is $61,000 (2022), there’s a $6,500 catch-up contribution option if you’re age 50 or older.

A solo 401 (k) can be opened as either a Traditional or Roth account. With a Traditional solo 401 (k), contributions are made on a pre-tax basis to reduce your tax burden. Roth 401(k) contributions are made with after-tax dollars.

Some solo 401(K)s do allow for a wider range of investments, but this depends on your brokerage and whether you set yourself up as the plan trustee.

Read More: SEP IRA vs. Solo 401(k).

IRA Contribution Limits

IRA contribution limits are routinely adjusted for inflation. Typically, limits are determined using either a capped figure or salary percentage. Here’s a rundown of current IRA contribution limits for self-employed IRA options (2023):

• Traditional IRA: $6,500 ($7,500 over age 50).
• SDIRA: $6,500 ($7,500 over age 50).
• SEP IRA: 25% of compensation/$66,000. Self-employed individuals max out at $330,000 of their net income.
• SIMPLE IRA: $14,000.
• Solo 401(k): $66,000 (+$7,500 catch-up rate for people over age 50).

When considering any type of IRA, it’s important to factor in income bracket, expanded contribution allotments for age, and other stipulations that could allow you to invest the maximum amount possible while receiving a tax advantage on your employment income.

Which Self-Employed Retirement Plan Is Right for Me?

The Traditional or Roth IRA is a great starting point for someone who simply wants to start putting money in a retirement account when they don’t have any kind of savings incentive match plan from an employer.

However, self-employed people with high-income levels or employees should consider an SDIRA, SEP IRA, Simple IRA, or Solo 401 (k) to discover which features allow them to save for retirement while enjoying the biggest tax deduction.

Self-employed people catching up with retirement savings should also consider plans that increase maximum contributions after age 50.

Finally, everyone who earns income should open a retirement account. For self-employed people, a retirement plan can allow you to take a tax deduction on your tax return, reducing your taxable income.

For small-business owners, matching contributions can help elevate their status as desirable employers while providing them with a tax advantage.

FAQs: Self-Employed Retirement Plans

Can I contribute to both a Roth IRA and a retirement plan for my self-employed business?

Yes, you can contribute to a Roth IRA alongside your self-employed retirement plan. However, income limits for Roth IRA contributions may apply.

What are the benefits of a Solo 401(k) over other retirement plans?

A Solo 401(k) offers higher contribution limits, catch-up contributions for those aged 50 and above, and the option to make both employee and employer contributions.

Are there any tax benefits to contributing to a retirement plan as a self-employed individual?

Yes, contributions to certain retirement plans are often tax-deductible, which can reduce your taxable income for the year.

What happens if my business experiences fluctuations in income? Can I adjust my contributions accordingly?

Yes, many self-employed retirement plans allow you to adjust your contributions based on your business’s income for the year.