Glossary
Catch-up contribution
Definition
Catch-up contributions let older savers contribute above the normal limit. For 2026: $8,0002026 · IRS extra to 401(k)-type plans at 50 and over, $11,2502026 · IRS at ages 60 to 63, and an IRA limit of $8,6002026 · IRS at 50 and over.
How catch-up contribution works
Special catch-ups also exist: the 403(b) 15-year service catch-up and the 457(b) final-three-years catch-up.
Under SECURE 2.0, some higher earners must make catch-ups as Roth contributions.
Questions about catch-up contribution
Who can make catch-ups?
Those 50 or older by year-end.
What is the 60–63 catch-up?
A higher catch-up for those ages, $11,2502026 · IRS, where the plan allows.
Must catch-ups be Roth?
For some higher earners, under SECURE 2.0.
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Related terms: Elective deferral
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