If you are 50 or older, the IRS lets you contribute more to retirement accounts. These catch-up contributions can meaningfully accelerate savings.
The limits
For 2026, workers age 50 and over can contribute an additional $8,000 to a 401(k) on top of the $24,500 base limit. SECURE 2.0 provides a higher catch-up of $11,250 for ages 60 to 63 in plans that offer it. IRAs allow a $1,100 catch-up, and HSAs allow an extra $1,000 starting at 55.
Roth catch-up requirement
Beginning in 2026, workers whose prior-year FICA wages exceeded $145,000 generally must make catch-up contributions as Roth contributions. Check your plan for how it implements this rule.
Using them wisely
Catch-up contributions are especially valuable if your earlier saving was limited. They reduce current taxes when made to traditional accounts, and add tax-free growth when made as Roth. Make sure your budget can handle the higher deferral.
Try the numbers
Use our 401(k) Calculator to see this in practice. With its default example (Current age: 30; Retirement age: 65; Annual salary: $85,000), it shows balance at retirement: $2,515,013. Adjust the inputs to match your situation.
Key takeaways
- Age 50+ can contribute extra to 401(k)s, IRAs and HSAs.
- A larger catch-up applies at ages 60–63 in many plans.
- High earners may need to make Roth catch-up contributions.
This article is for general education and is not personalized financial, tax or legal advice. Rules and limits change; confirm current figures with official sources such as IRS.gov, SSA.gov and StudentAid.gov, or consult a qualified professional. © 2026 FinanzCalc.