Question

What are catch-up contributions and who can make them?

Answer

Catch-up contributions are additional elective deferrals that workers age 50 and older can make to a qualified retirement plan, such as a 401(k), 403(b), 457(b), or IRA. They let you accelerate savings during your peak earning years. For 2026, the standard 401(k) catch-up limit is $8,000, and the IRA catch-up is $1,100. Savers ages 60 through 63 may qualify for a higher super catch-up of $11,250 if their plan offers it.

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