In with the New: Contribution Limits and Changes in 2026

As we step into 2026, there are several updates to retirement accounts that may impact your savings strategy. Here’s a reminder of some of the changes you need to know to stay ahead of the curve this year.

2026 Retirement Contribution Limits

The IRS has increased the standard limits for both 401(k)s and IRAs. We also see the continuation of the “Super Catch-Up” for qualified retirement plans.

Traditional & Roth IRA Limits

Age	Standard Limit	Catch-Up Limit	Total Possible
Under Age 50	$7,500	N/A	$7,500
Age 50+	$7,500	$1,100	$8,600

401(k), 403(b), and 457 Plan Limits

Age	Standard Limit	Catch-Up Limit	Total Possible
Under Age 50	$24,500	N/A	$24,500
Age 50 – 59	$24,500	$8,000	$32,500
Age 60 – 63 (Super Catch-Up)	$24,500	$11,250	$35,750
Age 64+	$24,500	$8,000	$32,500

The Big Change: Catchup Contributions

If your wages in 2025 exceeded $150,000, any catch-up contributions you make to your 401(k), 403(b), or 457(b) plan must be made in Roth, or after-tax, status. Check the figure in box 3 on your W-2 to determine if you’re above the threshold. What this means is, if you’re above the income threshold, you can no longer make catch-up contributions on a pre-tax basis. Instead, those must be added as a Roth contribution. Furthermore, if your employer’s plan doesn’t currently offer a Roth option, the new rules prevent high earners from making these catch-up contributions entirely.

We fully understand that these rules can be confusing, so if you have any questions or want to speak about this in greater detail, please call us or contact your CPA.