Issued a SEP-IRA Contribution by Employer, but Hold a Regular IRA

[Douga99]

My employer sent me a check labeled "2011 SEP-IRA Contribution" as a pension contribution. I don't have a SEP-IRA, but do have a regular IRA account. Can I deposit this into my IRA directly? I have been told that it might just be considered ordinary income that way rather than a non-taxable contribution. I know there are lots of rules regarding how you handle retirement funds and want to make sure this gets done right! Thanks.

[Mr. Knowitall]

You can deposit the money into a SEP IRA and then, if you wish, roll it over into your traditional IRA.