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Significant Updates on Pension Catch-up Contributions

As individuals enter their late career stages, tax-advantaged retirement planning becomes a crucial part of their financial strategy. For those 50 years and older, additional annual “catch-up” contributions to common salary reduction plans, such as 401(k)s, 403(b) TSAs, 457(b) governmental plans, and SIMPLE plans, bolster retirement savings and enhance tax planning options.

Age 50+ Catch-up Contributions: For the years 2023 through 2025, individuals participating in 401(k), 403(b), and 457(b) plans can make catch-up contributions of $7,500, while the limit for SIMPLE plans is set at $3,500. These limits are subject to adjustments for inflation. Image 1

New Provisions for Ages 60-63: In 2025, the SECURE 2.0 Act introduces enhanced catch-up contribution opportunities for individuals aged 60 through 63, seeing a significant rise in limits. This demographic, often approaching retirement, can now leverage higher income capacity to bolster their retirement nest egg. The new limit is the greater of $10,000 or 50% more than the standard catch-up amount, translating to a ceiling of $11,250 in 2025. However, for SIMPLE plans, the limit calculation varies, with a $5,250 cap, or $6,350 for small businesses with no more than 25 employees.

Roth Conversion for High Earners: Significantly, as of January 1, 2026, employees with previous year's earnings exceeding $145,000 from the plan-sponsoring employer must allocate catch-up contributions to Roth accounts, aligning with tax strategies for high-income earners.

  • Inflation Adjustment: The $145,000 limit will adjust in line with inflation.
  • Under Threshold Contributions: Employees earning less than the threshold have the flexibility to choose Roth designations.
  • Lack of Employer Roth Plan: Catch-up contributions are restricted for high earners if no employer-designated Roth exists.
  • No Full-Year Employment: Employees working part of the previous year but exceeding wage thresholds will face catch-up requirements.

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Strategic Tax Planning Opportunities: This legislative update opens avenues for strategic tax planning, primarily through Roth contributions which enable future tax-free withdrawals. As the landscape of tax regulations continues to shift, inflating tax rates become less daunting when diversified withdrawals from Roth accounts safeguard retirees against future tax hikes. Essentially, Roth accounts offer the dual benefits of tax-exempt withdrawals for contributions and accrued growth, granted the conditions of being over age 59½ and meeting the five-year rule are satisfied, making Roth plans highly beneficial within retirement and estate planning strategies, given they’re not subjected to mandatory distributions during the owner's lifespan.

  • Understanding the Five-Year Rule: Withdrawals become qualified only after five full taxable years post-contribution initiation. This holding period is distinct for each plan, and unique considerations apply to rollover scenarios.

Optimizing Contribution Timing: Consulting tax experts to navigate contribution timing can accelerate reaching retirement objectives. Initiating Roth contributions early, particularly for high-earning younger employees, is recommended to satisfy the five-year condition prior to retirement, while alternate approaches may be requisite for those nearing or in retirement.

For personalized advice and detailed assistance, contact our office to explore tax optimization strategies tailored to your financial portfolio.

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