Roth IRA contributions question

[Guest saber]

During a year in which my wife makes no income, can I as the spouse earning income still contribute to her Roth IRA? Or does she have to earn income in order for a contribution to be made?

Thanks

[Appleby]

You can make a spousal IRA contribution to your wife’s IRA. However, you must file a joint federal tax return. The total contribution to your IRA and your spouse’s IRA should not exceed your eligible compensation.