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Significant Updates on Pension Catch-up Contribution Limits

For individuals aged 50 and above, pension plans offer the opportunity to enhance retirement savings through specific "catch-up" contributions. These apply to salary reduction plans such as 401(k) Deferred Compensation plans, 403(b) TSA plans, 457(b) Government plans, and SIMPLE plans.

Catch-up Contributions for Those Aged 50+: If offered by the plan, individuals can augment their contributions by an additional $7,500 from 2023 through 2025 for 401(k), 403(b), and 457(b) arrangements. For SIMPLE plans, the limit is set at $3,500, with adjustments for inflation over time.

New Catch-up Rules for Ages 60-63: With the introduction of the SECURE 2.0 Act starting in 2025, an additional catch-up contribution is available for those aged 60 through 63. This acknowledges that individuals nearing retirement might have increased disposable income to fortify their retirement savings.

The Act adjusts these limits to the greater of $10,000 or 50% more than the standard catch-up amount, leading to a maximum of $11,250 for those aged 60-63 in 2025. When it comes to SIMPLE plans, the cap rises to $5,250 — or $6,350 if the employer has 25 or fewer employees.

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Mandatory Roth Contributions for High-Income Earners: Starting January 1, 2026, employees earning above $145,000 in the previous year from the sponsoring employer will need to make catch-up contributions as Roth contributions. This $145,000 threshold will be adjusted for inflation in subsequent years.

  • Inflation Adjustments: The $145,000 threshold will see inflation adjustments yearly.

  • Options for Others: Employees falling below this income level may choose to make catch-up contributions as Roth contributions.

  • Absence of Employer’s Roth Plan: Employees earning over the threshold cannot contribute catch-up funds unless the employer has a designated Roth plan.

  • Partial-Year Employees: Employees who worked only part of the previous calendar year are subject to these rules if their wages surpassed the Roth catch-up threshold from their employer.

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Strategic Tax Planning Opportunities: These amendments can be strategically leveraged to diversify tax planning approaches. By opting for Roth accounts, retirees can hedge future tax rate uncertainties. These accounts allow for tax-free withdrawals of both contributions and gains, provided conditions such as being 59½ years old and meeting the five-year rule are satisfied. This enhances their utility for estate planning, as they can remain untapped during the original owner’s lifetime.

  • Five-Year Rule Explained: Distributions are not qualified if made before five consecutive taxable years from the first plan contribution. Each plan’s holding period is generally distinct, potentially resulting in diverse holding periods across multiple Roth 401(k) plans due to varying contribution start dates. Special considerations apply for rollovers of Roth plans. Our office is available for further clarification.

Plan Contribution Timing: When planning Roth contributions, timing is crucial. High-income individuals might benefit from starting early to ensure they meet the five-year requirement before retiring, while those closer to retirement age might consider different strategies.

If you need more information or have inquiries, feel free to reach out to us.

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