Featured Articles

2026 Contribution Limits

The IRS just released the 2026 contribution limits for IRAs, 401(k)s, and other retirement accounts. If you're planning your retirement savings strategy for next year, here's what changed and what it means for you.

The 2026 retirement contribution limits are here and you can save more than ever. To help you maximize your savings, let's break down the details.

IRA Contribution Limits

For IRAs, you have new limits in 2026 that allow you to save more toward retirement:

  • Maximum contribution: $7,500 (up from $7,000 in 2025)
  • Catch-up contribution (age 50+): $1,100 (up from $1,000 in 2025)
  • Total contribution if age 50+: $8,600 (up from $8,000 in 2025)

Deadlines: You can contribute for the previous tax year up until the tax filing deadline, typically in April of the following year. Be sure to select the correct tax year when making your contribution, or it will default to the current year.

Roth IRA Income Limits (2026)

  • Single/head of household: $153,000 – $168,000 for 2026 (up from $150,000 – $165,000 in 2025)
  • Married filing jointly: $242,000 – $252,000 for 2026 (up from $236,000 – $246,000 in 2025)
  • Married filing separately: $0 – $10,000 for 2026 (same as 2025)

You can only contribute to a Roth IRA if your income falls below these thresholds.

Traditional IRA Deduction Limits (2026)

  • Single (active in workplace plan): $81,000 – $91,000 for 2026 (up from $79,000 – $89,000 in 2025)
  • Married filing jointly (active in workplace plan): $129,000 – $149,000 for 2026 (up from $126,000 – $146,000 in 2025)
  • Married filing jointly (spouse active, you not): $242,000 – $252,000 for 2026 (up from $236,000 – $246,000 in 2025)

These limits affect whether your contributions are tax-deductible. Contribution limits still apply regardless of income.

SEP IRA Contribution Limits

SEP IRAs are ideal for self-employed individuals or small business owners:

  • Maximum contribution: 25% of net earnings, up to $72,000 for 2026 (up from $70,000 in 2025)
  • Employee eligibility: Must be at least 21, have worked for 3 of the last 5 years, and earned at least $800.

Deadlines: Employer contributions are due by the employer’s tax return due date (usually April 15).

401(k) Contribution Limits

For 2026, 401(k) plans allow you to contribute more than ever:

  • Maximum employee contribution: $24,500 for 2026 (up from $23,500 in 2025)
  • Catch-up contribution (age 50+): $8,000 in 2026 (up from $7,500 in 2025, total $32,500)
  • Super catch-up (ages 60–63): $11,250 in 2026 (up from $10,500 in 2025, total $35,750)
  • Combined employee and employer contribution limit: $72,000 for 2026 (up from $70,000 in 2025, $80,000+ with catch-ups)

Deadlines: All 401(k) contributions for a tax year must be made by December 31 of that year.

Tip: Take advantage of catch-up contributions if you’re over 50, they can be a helpful boost to your retirement savings.

Be Retirement Confident.

Roll over all your old 401(k)s into a PensionBee Individual Retirement Account (IRA). It takes just a few minutes to sign up.

Get started

Make the Most of 2026 Limits with a Rollover

Staying on top of the IRS’s 2026 retirement contribution changes can help you save more. One way to make the most of your savings is by consolidating your retirement accounts. 

PensionBee makes it simple to roll over your old 401(k)s and IRAs into a single account, and for a limited time, every rollover earns a 1% match. (terms and conditions apply). Many rollovers happen automatically, but if yours needs extra attention, our personal rollover managers (called BeeKeepers) are ready to guide you every step of the way. With expert management and diversified portfolios with ETFs like SPY and MDY from State Street Investment Management, one of the world’s largest asset managers.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Why are there contribution limits?

Contribution limits ensure fair savings opportunities, prevent high-income earners from disproportionately benefiting from tax advantages, and encourage retirement savings across all income levels.

2. How are retirement plan contribution limits determined?

The IRS sets limits annually based on inflation, cost-of-living adjustments, and legislative changes.

3. Has the IRS increased catch-up amounts for 2026?

Yes. For 401(k)s, catch-up contributions have increased from $7,500 to $8,000, while the super catch-up for ages 60–63 remains $11,250. For IRAs, the catch-up contribution increased from $1,000 to $1,100.

4. How does the catch-up contribution limit work?

Individuals aged 50+ can contribute additional funds beyond the standard limit, helping accelerate retirement savings.

5. Are 2026 IRA contribution limits higher for those over 50?

Yes. The base limit is $7,500, and those 50 or older can contribute an extra $1,100, for a total of $8,600.

6. Are 401(k) and IRA contribution limits increasing in 2026?

The 401(k) limit increased to $24,500, while the IRA limit increased to $7,500. Catch-up contributions for both have also increased.

7. Are there income limits for 401(k) contributions in 2026?

No, there are no income limits for contributing to a 401(k). However, your plan may have specific rules or compensation limits.

8. What are the maximum 401(k) and IRA contribution limits for individuals over 50 in 2026?

For those over 50:

  • 401(k): $32,500 (including $8,000 catch-up)
  • IRA: $8,600 (including $1,100 catch-up)

9. Are there changes to the 401(k) and IRA contribution limits for 2026 due to inflation adjustments?

Yes, the IRS increased contribution limits for 401(k)s and IRAs in 2026 to account for cost-of-living adjustments, allowing you to save more for retirement.

Information contained herein has been obtained from sources considered reliable, but its accuracy and completeness are not guaranteed. It is not intended as the primary basis for financial planning or investment decisions and should not be construed as advice meeting the particular investment needs of any investor. This material has been prepared for information purposes only and is not a solicitation or an offer to buy any security or instrument or to participate in any trading strategy. Past performance is no guarantee of future results.

Be Retirement Confident.

Roll over all your old 401(k)s into a PensionBee Individual Retirement Account (IRA). It takes just a few minutes to sign up.

Get started
product shot showing the pensionbee app