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Significant Updates on Catch-Up Contributions for Retirement Plans

Exciting changes are on the horizon for individuals aged 50 and older who are looking to bolster their retirement savings through catch-up contributions. Traditionally, these additional contributions are allowed in plans such as 401(k) Deferred Compensation, 403(b) TSA, 457(b) Government plans, and SIMPLE plans. Let's delve deeper into these beneficial adjustments.

Age 50+ Catch-Ups: Among 401(k), 403(b), and 457(b) plans, individuals aged 50 and above have enjoyed a catch-up contribution limit of $7,500 for years 2023 through 2025. SIMPLE plans have observed a limit of $3,500. These figures are subject to periodic inflation adjustments to ensure they remain financially relevant.

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New Age 60-63 Catch-Ups: The SECURE 2.0 Act, effective from 2025, introduces an exciting new opportunity for ages 60 through 63. With the expectation that individuals at this stage might have more disposable income, the Act hikes the catch-up contribution limit to the higher of $10,000 or 50% more than the current amount. Consequently, the 2025 maximum catch-up stands at $11,250 for those aged 60 to 63. SIMPLE plans have a slightly varied computation, placing the 2025 maximum at $5,250, rising to $6,350 if employee numbers don't exceed 25.

Mandatory Roth Contributions for High Earners: Starting January 1, 2026, a shift occurs for employees earning more than $145,000 from the plan-sponsoring employer in the prior year. For these individuals, catch-up contributions must be allocated as Roth contributions.

  • Inflation Adjustments: The $145,000 benchmark will adjust for inflation in future calculations.

  • Options for Lower Earners: Employees who fall below this wage threshold can voluntarily opt for Roth contributions.

  • Roth Plan Availability: If an employer lacks a designated Roth plan, those exceeding the wage threshold cannot make catch-up contributions.

  • Employment Timing Considerations: Employees working only part of a previous year will need to exceed the wage threshold for that entire year to be subject to current Roth catch-up stipulations.

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Strategic Tax Planning Opportunities: These amendments offer a strategic edge in tax planning. Roth contributions provide a tax-advantaged avenue for withdrawing both principal and gains, contingent on meeting conditions like being at least age 59½ and satisfying the five-year rule. Their non-mandatory distribution feature enhances their usefulness in estate planning.

  • Understanding the Five-Year Rule: For a distribution to qualify, it cannot occur until five consecutive taxable years have elapsed post initial contribution to the Roth plan. Employees with multiple Roth 401(k) involvements may have varied holding periods, influenced by their first contribution dates, with special considerations for rollover scenarios. Reach out for more tailor-designed insights.

Timing Your Contributions: The timing of Roth contributions can be crucial. Younger high-income employees can benefit from starting earlier to align with the five-year holding requirement, whereas those at the brink of retirement might prefer alternative tactics.

For personalized advice or more information, don't hesitate to contact our office situated in Maitland, Florida, serving areas like Winter Park, Lake Nona, and beyond. We specialize in aligning tax strategies with your retirement goals for maximized benefits.

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