For **2025**, here are the Roth IRA rules for a 50-year-old single filer, based on the recent IRS inflation adjustments:
### 1. The Contribution Limit: **$8,000**
Because you are 50 years old, you are eligible to make a "catch-up" contribution.
* **Base limit:** $7,000
* **Age 50+ catch-up:** $1,000
* **Total allowed:** **$8,000**
*(Note: You can only contribute up to $8,000 or 100% of your earned income for the year, whichever is less).*
### 2. The Income Phase-Out Range: **$150,000 to $165,000**
Whether you can contribute the full $8,000 depends on your **Modified Adjusted Gross Income (MAGI)**. For single filers in 2025, the brackets are:
* **Under $150,000:** You can contribute the full **$8,000**.
* **$150,000 to $165,000:** You are in the phase-out range. Your allowed contribution will be reduced (prorated) based on exactly where your income falls in this gap.
* **$165,000 or higher:** You cannot contribute directly to a Roth IRA.
**What if you make more than $165,000?**
If your income exceeds the limit, you can still get money into a Roth IRA using the **"Backdoor Roth" strategy**. This involves making a non-deductible contribution to a Traditional IRA (which has no income limits for contributions) and immediately converting it to a Roth IRA. If you don't have other pre-tax Traditional IRA balances, this conversion is generally tax-free.
*Disclaimer: I am an AI, not a CPA or financial advisor. It is always a good idea to consult with a tax professional regarding your specific Modified Adjusted Gross Income (MAGI) and contribution strategies.*