Ken is a self-employed architect in a small firm with four employees: himself, his office assistant, and two drafters, all of whom have worked for Ken full-time for the last four years. The office assistant earns $30,000 per year and each drafter earns $40,000. Kens net earnings from self-employment (after deducting all expenses and one-half of self-employment taxes) are $310,000. Ken is considering whether to establish a SEP plan and has a few questions. Assume that all the employees are at least 21 years old.

1) If the employees are not covered, what is the maximum amount Ken can contribute for himself?

A. Lesser of $58,000 or 25% of employee earnings Incorrect

B. Greater of $58,000 or 25% of employee earnings

C. Only 25% of employee earnings Only $58,000

D. No contribution as Ken is not qualified to have a SEP Plan

2) If Ken is required to contribute for his employees and chooses to contribute the maximum amount, what is the maximum amount Ken can contribute for himself? (Hint: Calculate the employee amounts first.) Ignore any changes in Kens self-employment tax.