Understanding Pension Catch-up Contribution Changes

For individuals over the age of 50, the opportunity to enhance retirement savings through additional “catch-up” contributions is critical. These contributions are pertinent to salary reduction plans, including 401(k) Deferred Compensation plans, 403(b) TSA plans, 457(b) Government plans, and SIMPLE plans.

Enhancements for 50+ Contributors: Historically, those aged 50 and above could contribute up to an additional $7,500 annually in catch-up contributions to 401(k), 403(b), and 457(b) plans from 2023 through 2025, while SIMPLE plans allowed for $3,500. These figures are adjusted periodically based on inflation metrics.

New Catch-up Rules for Ages 60-63: 2025 marks the introduction of an innovative catch-up contribution tactic via the SECURE 2.0 Act. Targeted at taxpayers aged 60 to 63, this approach acknowledges the likelihood of higher disposable income nearing retirement. It allows these individuals to allocate up to the higher of $10,000 or 50% more than the standard catch-up limits — leading to a maximum of $11,250. SIMPLE plans differ slightly, offering a maximum catch-up of $5,250, escalating to $6,350 for entities with 25 or fewer employees.

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Mandatory Roth Contributions for High Earners: Starting January 1, 2026, employees earning over $145,000 from their employer in the preceding year must switch their catch-up contributions to Roth contributions. This threshold will adjust for inflation annually.

  • Inflation-Adjusted Threshold: With inflation considerations, the $145,000 limit is subject to future increases.

  • Contribution Flexibility: Employees earning below this threshold retain the flexibility to categorize their contributions as Roth if preferred.

  • Employer Plan Compliance: Should an employer lack a designated Roth plan, employees earning above this threshold cannot make catch-up contributions.

  • Employment Continuity: For employees without a full prior year with the employer, the Roth requirement applies only if the income cap is met.

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Optimizing Tax Strategies: These amendments present taxpayers with expansive opportunities to diversify tax strategies. Roth accounts offer the advantage of tax-free withdrawal of contributions and growth, provided certain conditions such as reaching age 59½ and satisfying the five-year rule are met. These features enhance the appeal of Roth plans for both personal and estate planning, as they offer unique tax benefits and require no mandatory distributions during the account holder’s lifetime.

  • Understanding the Five-Year Rule: A distribution is deemed unsatisfactory if made within five taxable years of the initial contribution. This holding period is independently tracked across different plans, with unique rules applicable to Roth rollovers. Visit our office for tailored guidance.

Strategic Timing Considerations: Timing is crucial in maximizing Roth contributions. Younger high-income earners can benefit from early contributions to meet the five-year criterion before retirement. Those nearing retirement should explore alternative routes.

For consultation or clarifications, our office is ready to assist.

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