Each year, the IRS adjusts retirement contribution limits to account for cost-of-living changes. For 2026, several limits increased, affecting workplace retirement plans, IRAs, and catch-up contributions.
Understanding how each type of retirement account works—and how much can be contributed—can help when reviewing payroll elections, planning around income changes, or coordinating multiple accounts.
📌 Learn more on our Retirement Planning page.
2026 Contribution Limits for 401(k), 403(b), and 457 Plans
These are employer-sponsored retirement plans. Contributions are typically made through payroll deductions, often before taxes (depending on the type of account). Some employers also contribute to the plan through matching or profit-sharing contributions.
- 401(k) plans are commonly offered by private-sector employers.
- 403(b) plans are used by nonprofit organizations and certain public employers.
- 457 plans are available to state and local government employees and some nonprofits.
Employee Contribution Limits for 401(k), 403(b), and 457 Plans (2026)
- Employee contribution limit: $24,500
- Catch-up contribution (age 50 and older): $8,000
- Total for age 50 and older: $32,500
Catch-Up Contribution Rules for 401(k), 403(b), and 457 Plans (2026)
Under changes made by SECURE 2.0, individuals ages 60, 61, 62, and 63 may contribute a higher catch-up amount.
- Catch-up contribution for ages 60–63: $11,250
Employer contributions do not count toward the employee contribution limit, but they do count toward the plan’s overall maximum.
📌 Read our blog post – Maximize Your 401(k): Tips for Smart Retirement Savings
2026 IRA Contribution Limits: Traditional and Roth IRAs
An Individual Retirement Account (IRA) is a retirement account opened outside of an employer. IRAs are often used to supplement workplace plans or as a primary retirement account when no employer plan is available.
- Traditional IRAs may allow for a tax deduction when contributions are made, depending on income and workplace plan coverage.
- Roth IRAs are funded with after-tax dollars, and qualified withdrawals in retirement are generally tax-free. Eligibility is based on income.
The contribution limit applies across all IRAs combined, not per account.
2026 IRA Contribution Limits and Catch-Up Contributions for 2026
- Contribution limit: $7,500
- Catch-up contribution (age 50 and older): $1,100
- Total for age 50 and older: $8,600
📌 Read our blog post – Traditional IRA vs. Roth IRA: What’s the Difference?
2026 SIMPLE IRA Contribution Limits
A SIMPLE IRA is a retirement plan commonly used by small businesses. It allows employees to contribute through payroll deductions and requires employer contributions, either through matching or fixed contributions.
Employee Contribution Limits for SIMPLE IRAs (2026)
- Standard employee contribution limit: $17,000
- Higher limit for certain applicable plans: $18,100
SIMPLE IRA Catch-up Contribution Limits for 2026
- Age 50 and older: $4,000
- Certain applicable SIMPLE plans: $3,850
- Ages 60–63: $5,250
Income Rules That Affect IRA Contributions in 2026
While the annual IRA contribution limit applies across all IRAs combined, income determines whether a contribution is fully deductible, partially deductible, or allowed.
Traditional IRA Deduction Income Limits for 2026
If the contributor is covered by a workplace retirement plan, deductibility may be phased out based on income.
- Single filers: $81,000–$91,000
- Married filing jointly (contributor covered): $129,000–$149,000
- Married filing jointly (contributor not covered, spouse covered): $242,000–$252,000
- Married filing separately: $0–$10,000
If neither spouse is covered by a workplace plan, these limits do not apply.
Roth IRA Income Limits for 2026
Roth IRA eligibility is based on income.
- Single filers / Head of household: $153,000–$168,000
- Married filing jointly: $242,000–$252,000
- Married filing separately: $0–$10,000
📌 Learn more on our IRA Planning page.
Saver’s Credit Income Limits for Retirement Contributions (2026)
The Saver’s Credit is a tax credit available to eligible low- and moderate-income individuals who contribute to retirement accounts.
2026 income limits
- Married filing jointly: up to $80,500
- Head of household: up to $60,375
- Single filers and married filing separately: up to $40,250
Takeaways on 2026 Retirement Contribution Limits
The 2026 retirement contribution limits show how much you can save—but not how much you should save.
Workplace plans, IRAs, and small business retirement accounts all play different roles. The right mix depends on income, benefits, taxes, and short- and long-term priorities.
If you would like to discuss how these limits relate to your broader retirement planning, you can schedule a complimentary introductory meeting with our team in Glastonbury or Wilton, CT.
Have a quick question instead? Send us a note.
Jordan Hickey is a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER® professional who helps clients create personalized financial plans. Based in Glastonbury and Wilton, CT, Jordan offers guidance on retirement, insurance, investments, and overall wealth management. Schedule a complimentary introductory meeting with Jordan.
This information has been obtained from sources considered to be reliable, but we do not guarantee that the foregoing material is accurate or complete, it is not a statement of all available data necessary for making an investment decision and it does not constitute a recommendation. Prior to making an investment decision, please consult with your financial advisor about your individual situation. Any opinions are those of the author, and not necessarily those of Raymond James. Expressions of opinion are as of this date and are subject to change without notice. Raymond James and its advisors do not offer tax or legal advice. You should discuss any tax or legal matters with the appropriate professional.