Updates on Pension Catch-up Contributions for 2025 and Beyond

The retirement landscape is evolving, and for individuals aged 50 and over, there are significant changes on the horizon with respect to catch-up contributions in various retirement plans such as 401(k) Deferred Compensation plans, 403(b) TSA plans, 457(b) Government plans, and SIMPLE plans. These adjustments reflect a strategic evolution in retirement planning, aimed at amplifying savings opportunities for those nearing retirement age.

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Traditional Catch-up Contributions for Age 50+: Historically, individuals 50 and older have been allowed to make additional annual “catch-up” contributions. These contributions have been capped at $7,500 for 401(k), 403(b), and 457(b) plans, and $3,500 for SIMPLE plans, subject to inflation adjustments for the years 2023 through 2025.

New Age 60 to 63 Catch-up Contributions: Beginning in 2025, the SECURE 2.0 Act introduces a new catch-up contribution limit for individuals aged 60 through 63. Recognizing the increased capacity for savings in the years leading up to retirement, the new rule allows catch-up contributions up to the greater of $10,000 or 50% more than the standard catch-up amount. This means a potential allowance of $11,250 for 2025. For SIMPLE plans, taxpayers can aim for a catch-up of $5,250, and if the organization employs no more than 25 individuals, this can be increased to $6,350.

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Mandatory Roth Contributions for High Earners: Effective from January 1, 2026, employees earning more than $145,000 in the previous year must direct their catch-up contributions as Roth contributions. This threshold is subject to inflation adjustments in subsequent years. Those earning below this threshold still have the choice to classify their contributions as Roth if they meet other eligibility criteria. If an employer does not offer a designated Roth plan, then high earners cannot make catch-up contributions under these new rules.

Strategic Tax Planning Opportunities: These legislative updates offer taxpayers strategic entry points to rethink and refine their tax and retirement strategies. Roth accounts emerge as particularly advantageous, providing tax-exempt withdrawals on contributions and accrued profits, given certain criteria, such as the five-year rule, are met. This stipulation and the benefits of Roth accounts make them a valuable tool for estate planning, as they waive mandatory lifetime distributions for the account owner.

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Managing Timing and Compliance: As part of a comprehensive retirement strategy, it is crucial for taxpayers, especially younger high-income earners, to analyze the timing of their Roth contributions to maximize the five-year holding period advantage. Pre-retirees should consider consulting with their advisors to explore diverse strategies tailored to their unique retirement goals.

If you have any questions or need guidance on navigating these changes, please contact MJ Ahmed CPA PLLC, where we are dedicated to providing exceptional tax and accounting services tailored to your needs across the Dallas-Fort Worth area and beyond.

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