With new 401(k) contribution limits for 2026, it’s time to update your retirement plan. Learn just how much you may possibly save next year with retirement planning advisors at EP Wealth.

How Much Can I Contribute to a 401(k) in 2026?

As the year winds down, it’s the perfect time to review upcoming contribution limit changes for 401(k)s in 2026. Contact a financial advisor at EP Wealth to discuss how these updates will impact your retirement planning objectives.

Employee Contribution Limits: What’s New in 2026?

In 2026, the annual contribution limit for 401(k) and 403(b) plans for employees under 50 will increase from $23,500 to $24,500. While this is a modest increase, every additional dollar counts when building your retirement savings. Contributing the maximum amount can potentially help keep you on track for a secure retirement, especially when combined with employer contributions.

Catch-Up Contributions for Those 50 and Older

Catch-up contributions are designed to help employees age 50 and older grow their retirement savings during the critical years before they stop working.

In 2026, the limit for catch-up contributions for those 50 and over will remain at $8,000, up from $7,500 in 2025. This allows employees in this age group to contribute up to a total of $32,500 to their 401(k) plans in 2026. This boost is intended to help older workers make up for any missed contributions earlier in their careers.

Higher Catch-Up Contributions for Employees 60-63

Under the SECURE 2.0 Act, employees aged 60 to 63 can take advantage of even higher catch-up contribution limits to further bolster their retirement savings.

In 2026, employees aged 60 to 63 can contribute an additional $11,250. For this age group, the total 401(k) contribution limit for 2026 will be $35,750.

Employer Contributions: How Much Can They Add to Your 401(k)?

For workers under 50, the total for employer and employee contribution limits for 401(k) and 403(b) will increase from $70,000 in 2025 to $72,000 in 2026. For employees 50+, the total combined contribution is $80,000. With the increased catch-up limits, workers ages 60-63 and their employers can contribute a total of $83,500 in 2026.

In addition to your personal contributions, many employers offer matching contributions as part of their benefits package. For employees under 50, the total combined limit for employer and employee contributions to a 401(k) or 403(b) will increase to $72,000 in 2026, up from $70,000 in 2025. Employees aged 50 and older can contribute up to $80,000, including catch-up contributions.

For employees aged 60 to 63, who are eligible for the higher catch-up limits, the total allowable contribution rises to $83,500 in 2026.

Total Maximum Contribution Limits for 2026

To give you a clear snapshot, here are the contribution limits for 2026:

• Employees under 50: $24,500 personal limit; $72,000 combined employee and employer limit
• Employees 50 and older: $32,500 total with catch-up; $80,000 combined employee and employer limit
• Employees aged 60-63: $35,750 total with enhanced catch-up; $83,500 combined employee and employer limit

Potential Tax Benefits of Maximizing Your 401(k) Contributions

Contributing to a 401(k) doesn’t just help build your retirement nest egg; it also offers potential tax advantages that may possibly be beneficial both now and in the future. By making contributions with pre-tax dollars, you can reduce your taxable income for the year, potentially lowering your tax bracket. This tax-deferral benefit means you’ll only pay taxes on your withdrawals in retirement, when you’re likely to be in a lower tax bracket.

Maximizing your 401(k) contributions each year may potentially result in tax savings over time. Additionally, the investment gains on your 401(k) contributions grow tax-free until you start making withdrawals. Taking full advantage of these tax benefits is a powerful way to manage your retirement strategy and perhaps preserve more of your wealth.

Take advantage of a free, no-obligation financial health assessment—available to those with $500K or more in assets.

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