Final deadline to make IRA contributions for the prior calendar year and claim deductions.
The April 15 deadline allows you to make contributions to both Traditional and Roth IRAs for the prior calendar year. For example, on April 15, 2025, you can contribute to a 2024 IRA. This is one of the last tax planning opportunities of the filing season.
For Traditional IRAs, contributions may be tax-deductible depending on your Modified Adjusted Gross Income (MAGI) and whether you're covered by an employer retirement plan. If you're self-employed, this deadline also applies to Solo 401(k)s.
For Roth IRAs, there are income limits. If your MAGI exceeds the limit, you cannot contribute directly to a Roth. However, you can use a "backdoor Roth" strategy: contribute to a Traditional IRA (non-deductible), then immediately convert to Roth. This works regardless of income level.
The contribution limit is $7,000 (2024–2025) for those under 50, or $8,000 if age 50+. Catch-up contributions allow older savers to add extra money.
Contributions made after April 15 count toward the current year, not the prior year, so timing is important if you want to maximize tax deductions or catch-up contributions.
Missed IRA contribution deadlines:
- Cannot claim deductions on current return (only if contributed by April 15)
- Must treat as current-year contribution instead
- Lost opportunity to reduce prior-year tax liability
- No "makeup" contribution window; you can only contribute once per year for each type
Add this deadline to your phone, calendar, or reminder app 2–3 weeks in advance to avoid last-minute stress.