TL;DR: Self-employed, can contribute up to $58k more to my 2025 SEP IRA and save $24,530 in taxes (42.1% rate). But I'm also buying a $200k home for my mom later this year (no exact timeframe) and need cash for the down payment. Looking for advice on whether to max it, do a moderate contribution, or skip it.

    My situation:

    • Self-employed, $10,400 already in 2025 SEP IRA, can contribute $58,135 more
    • Maxing it saves $24,530 in combined federal and state taxes
    • $85k liquid in savings (other funds are in investments and previous 401k)
    • Buying a $200k home for my mom later this year, mostly financed but want a solid down payment to avoid PMI
    • Want to keep ~$50k as an emergency fund after the purchase
      • Basically this kind of my floor that I'd like to have available.
    • Not maxing other retirement accounts but do contribute biweekly to other investments

    Options I'm considering:

    1. Max it ($58k more): Save $24,530 in taxes but drain almost all my cash
    2. Moderate ($15-25k more): Save $6,300-$10,500 and still have enough for a 20-25% down payment plus emergency fund
    3. Skip it: Keep full flexibility for the home but lose the tax break entirely
    4. Wait: I think I have until October 15, 2026 to contribute if I file an extension

    Questions:

    • Does the moderate route make the most sense?
    • Anyone been in a similar spot… what would you do?
    • Is the October 15 extension deadline correct for SEP IRAs?

    Appreciate any input!

    Should I max my SEP IRA for the tax savings or keep cash for a home purchase later this year?
    byu/PaintingMinute7248 inpersonalfinance



    Posted by PaintingMinute7248

    2 Comments

    1. Do you have a home?
      does your mom really need a full house to themselves if they don’t plan on starting a family and needing the space to do so? If she’s a widow that could we a waste if she turns around and wants a new home with someone new

    2. Odd-Reporter-5969 on

      i’d be careful draining cash right before a house purchase.

      the tax savings are real, but so is optionality. underwriting, repairs, closing costs, moving, random “lol surprise” expenses… houses are needy little monsters.

      moderate contribution feels less scary here. get some tax benefit, but don’t walk into a home purchase cash-thin. tax win is nice. liquidity lets you sleep.

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