2026 Catch-Up Retirement Contribution Changes: Key Points for High Earners

Beginning in 2026, new IRS regulations under the SECURE 2.0 Act will change how high-earning employees over the age of 50 are allowed to make catch-up contributions through their employer retirement plans. For the first time, higher earners will be excluded from making this type of contribution on a tax-deferred basis.  

Key Changes 
  • W-2 Employees age 50+ who earned more than $145,000 in 2025 may only make catch-up contributions to a Roth account; contributions cannot be tax-deferred.  
  • The 2026 catch-up limit is $8,000, with a “super catch-up” of $11,250 available to individuals ages 60–63. 
  • Regular employee contributions of up to $24,500 in 2026 can still be made on a pre-tax basis regardless of income. 
  • These new rules apply to 401(k), 403(b), and governmental 457(b) plans. 
  • If a plan does not offer a Roth option, affected employees will be unable to make catch-up contributions. 
Additional Provisions 

The wage threshold applies per employer; an individual may be restricted under one employer's retirement plan but not another. 

Self-employed individuals without W-2 income are exempt from the Roth requirement. 

New employees are exempt in their first year, as they have no prior-year wages with that employer. 

Conclusion 

 These rules will meaningfully impact retirement savers earning above the wage threshold. While Roth catch-up contributions remove the pre-tax deduction, they provide tax-free growth. Those impacted should confirm whether their plan offers Roth contributions and plan ahead for the 2026 changes.


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