Self-Employment Retirement Plan (Keogh Plan)
Definition
A Self-Employment Retirement Plan, commonly known as a Keogh Plan, is a tax-deferred retirement plan for self-employed individuals or those who own small businesses that are unincorporated. These plans allow eligible participants to contribute a portion of their income toward their retirement savings, offering significant tax benefits.
Examples
- Defined-Contribution Keogh Plan: Allows self-employed individuals to make annual contributions up to a set limit. Employers can contribute on behalf of their employees and themselves.
- Defined-Benefit Keogh Plan: Establishes a pension based on the individual’s earnings and years of service. Contributions are typically determined by actuarial calculations.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Who is eligible to establish a Keogh Plan?
A: Self-employed individuals, partners in a business partnership, and small business owners with unincorporated businesses are eligible.
Q: What are the tax benefits of a Self-Employment Retirement Plan?
A: Contributions to the plan are tax-deductible, reducing taxable income. Investment gains within the plan grow tax-deferred until withdrawn.
Q: Are there contribution limits for Keogh Plans?
A: Yes, the contribution limits are set annually by the IRS and may vary based on whether the plan is a defined-contribution or a defined-benefit plan.
Q: When can participants start withdrawing funds from a Keogh Plan?
A: Participants can begin withdrawing funds without penalty at age 59½, and required minimum distributions must start by age 72.
Related Terms
Defined-Contribution Plan: A retirement plan where contributions are defined, but the future benefits may vary based on investment returns.
Defined-Benefit Plan: A retirement plan where the benefits are predetermined based on factors such as salary history and duration of employment.
Tax-Deferred: Investment earnings such as interest, dividends, or capital gains that accumulate tax-free until the investor takes possession of them.
SEP IRA (Simplified Employee Pension Individual Retirement Account): A retirement plan that provides benefits similar to a Keogh Plan but is easier to set up and administrate.
Online Resources
- IRS: Retirement Plans for Self-Employed People
- U.S. Department of Labor: Types of Retirement Plans
- Investopedia: Keogh Plan
Suggested Books for Further Studies
“Retirement Plans: 401(k)s, IRAs and Other Deferred Compensation Approaches” by Patti S. Spencer - Offers an in-depth look at various retirement plans including Keogh Plans.
“The Bogleheads’ Guide to Retirement Planning” by Taylor Larimore et al. - Provides strategies and advice for effective retirement planning.
“The Simple Path to Wealth” by JL Collins - Discusses investment strategies and retirement plans for independent individuals.
Fundamentals of Self-Employment Retirement Plan: Personal Finance Basics Quiz
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