Essential Updates for Pension Catch-Up Contributions

For individuals aged 50 and above, additional “catch-up” contributions to salary reduction plans, such as 401(k) Deferred Compensation plans, 403(b) TSA plans, 457(b) Government plans, and SIMPLE plans, are a strategic financial move.

Age 50+ Catch-Ups: In compliance with plans like 401(k), 403(b), and 457(b), the available catch-up contribution amount for individuals aged 50 and over has been set at $7,500 for the years 2023 through 2025, while SIMPLE plans have it set at $3,500. These values are subject to inflation adjustments.

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Enhanced Catch-Ups for Ages 60-63: The SECURE 2.0 ACT, starting in 2025, adds an extra layer of financial strategy by introducing a catch-up contribution for individuals between ages 60 and 63. This offers an increased opportunity for those approaching retirement to boost their savings, allowing for a maximum contribution of the greater of $10,000 or 50% more than the standard catch-up amount—resulting in a maximum of $11,250 for 2025. For SIMPLE plans, the calculation varies, leading to a maximum of $5,250, or $6,350 if there are 25 or fewer employees.

Mandatory Roth Contributions for Higher Earners: From January 1, 2026, those with wages exceeding $145,000 from the employer sponsoring the plan must make catch-up contributions as Roth contributions. It's important to note that this threshold is subject to inflation adjustments.

  • Impact on Lower Earners: Employees beneath this wage threshold can still choose to make Roth contributions.

  • Absence of a Roth Option: If a designated Roth plan isn't available, employees over the wage threshold cannot make catch-up contributions.

  • Partial Year Considerations: An employee's requirement to adhere to this rule in the current year applies only if their previous year’s earnings surpass the full threshold.

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Strategic Tax Planning Insights: This amendment provides a unique opportunity. Taxpayers can leverage Roth accounts for substantial tax planning advantages, such as reducing potential future tax rate risks and enjoying tax-free withdrawals of both contributions and gains, assuming conditions like being 59½ years old and meeting the five-year rule are satisfied. Roth accounts do not require distributions during the owner's lifetime, enhancing estate planning strategies.

  • The Five-Year Rule Explained: Contributions must sit in the account for five years before qualified withdrawals can occur, with separate holding periods for each plan an employee participates in. This rule includes special provisions for Roth plan rollovers. Consult our office for further details.

Consideration of Contribution Timing: Younger, high-income employees might benefit from starting Roth contributions early to meet the five-year holding period. Conversely, those closer to retirement may need to explore different approaches.

If you have queries or require professional assistance, don't hesitate to reach out to our office.

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