The 2026 401(k) Wake-Up Call: What Everyone Needs to Know
Flexify2: Your Job Search Evolved! by Trina Smith
Episode notes
Key Topics Covered
The Big Change
- Starting January 1, 2026, workers earning over $145,000 must make catch-up contributions to Roth 401(k) accounts only
- No more pre-tax catch-up contributions for high earners
- This applies to anyone 50+ who earned more than $145,000 from their employer in the previous year
Understanding Catch-Up Contributions
- Standard 401(k) contribution limit in 2025: $23,500
- Catch-up contributions for age 50+: Additional $7,500
- Enhanced catch-up for ages 60-63: Additional $11,250
- These limits will continue to increase with inflation
Traditional vs. Roth 401(k) Explained
- Traditional 401(k): Pre-tax contributions, immediate tax break, taxed upon withdrawal in retirement
- Roth 401(k): After- ...
Keywords
401kMoney Management Tax Law Changes Roth 401k RulesRetirement SavingsSecure 2.0 Act401k ChangesTraditional vs. Roth 401kOver 50 Retirement SavingsNew Retirement Rules401k Law Changes