Wilson and Joan, Both in Their 30s, File a Joint

question 84

Essay

Wilson and Joan, both in their 30s, file a joint income tax return for 2015. Wilson's wages are $15,000 and Joan's wages are $23,000 for the year. Their total adjusted gross income is $38,000, and Joan is covered by a qualified pension plan at work but Wilson is not.
a.​
What is the maximum amount that Wilson and Joan may each deduct for contributions to their individual retirement accounts?
b.​
​
If Joan's wages are $88,000 for 2015, instead of $23,000, and their adjusted gross income is $103,000, what is the maximum amount that Wilson and Joan may each deduct for contributions to their individual retirement accounts?

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Definitions:

Entitleds

Individuals who believe they deserve certain privileges or treatment irrespective of their actual achievements or contributions.

Overreward Inequity

A situation where an individual perceives they are receiving more rewards than what their efforts justify.

Underrewarded

The feeling or situation that arises when an individual perceives that their rewards or compensations do not reflect their contributions or efforts adequately.

Fixed Pay

A predetermined amount of salary or wages that an employee receives on a regular basis, such as weekly or monthly, regardless of performance.