Roth IRA- married filing separately

[Guest cyelkovan]

:confused:

I recently married but had already made my full $2000 Roth IRA contribution for 2001. Unfortunately (or fortunately!) my new husband's income may disqualify these prior contributions. But there may be hope if we file separately...I will probably have an AGI very close to $10,000.

1. If my AGI turns out to be < or = to $10,000, how do I figure what my max 2001 contribution should have been? Will my eligibility to contribute still in part be determined by my spouse's AGI? I've read the tax law on this and find it to be very confusing! How do I get rid of any potential excess before filing and being penalized?

2. If my AGI is >$10,000 or my husband's income is still too high to qualify (even filing separately), what are my options? Conversion to a traditional? Any other options?

If it matters, neither of us participate in any qualified plans.

Any general advice or concrete examples will be appreciated. Walk me through it.

Sincerely,

C. Yelkovan