Pension Catch-Up Contributions: Important Updates

For individuals aged 50 and above, the opportunity to optimize retirement savings through additional “catch-up” contributions is critical. This option is available with salary reduction plans such as 401(k), 403(b), 457(b) Government plans, and SIMPLE plans. Recent legislative changes present new opportunities and requirements for those nearing retirement.

Enhanced Catch-Up Contributions for Age 50+: Plans including 401(k), 403(b), and 457(b) have maintained an additional contribution limit of $7,500 from 2023 to 2025. For SIMPLE plans, this limit is set at $3,500. These thresholds are subject to inflation adjustments to retain their value over time.

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Catch-Up Boost for Ages 60 to 63: In 2025, the SECURE 2.0 Act introduces an elevated catch-up contribution for taxpayers aged 60 to 63, acknowledging the proximity to retirement. This modification allows contributions of up to $10,000 or 50% more than the standard catch-up amount, resulting in a maximum of $11,250. SIMPLE plans allow a maximum of $5,250, with variations for smaller employers.

Mandatory Roth Designation for Higher Earnings: Starting January 1, 2026, employees earning over $145,000 from the plan’s sponsor in the preceding year must design their catch-up contributions as Roth contributions, which will also adjust for inflation.

  • Inflation-Adjusted: The $145,000 threshold will increase in line with inflation.

  • Optional Roth for Others: Employees below this income level can choose to make catch-up contributions as Roth.

  • Implications of No Roth Plans: If a designated Roth plan is unavailable, those earning above the threshold cannot make catch-up contributions.

  • Partial Year Employment: Employees who worked part of the year may only encounter the Roth requirement if their wages exceed the threshold the previous year.

Tax Planning Strategies: This evolution in contribution options encourages taxpayers to diversify their tax and estate planning strategies. Roth accounts provide tax-free withdrawals, subject to certain conditions such as the five-year rule and age requirements, enhancing their usefulness during retirement. These accounts also offer significant benefits for estate planning.

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Understanding the Five-Year Rule: A distribution isn’t considered qualified if made before five consecutive taxable years from the first contribution. This timeline applies separately to each Roth plan, impacted further by any rollovers that have occurred. Consultation for specific scenarios can provide clarity.

Planning Contributions: The timing of Roth contributions should be strategic. Younger high earners may benefit from early contributions to satisfy the five-year rule, while those closer to retirement might consider other approaches.

For more insights or personalized advice, feel free to reach out to our office.

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