Catch-up contributions allow people aged 50 or older to make additional contributions on top of the annual deferral limit for all employer-sponsored retirement accounts. This includes pre-tax and Roth contributions to 401(k), 403(b), Starter 401(k), SAR-SEP, and SIMPLE IRA plans. The annual catch-up contribution limits may be adjusted annually by the IRS to account for cost-of-living increases.
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The extra contributions are intended to help those nearing retirement catch up and set aside more earnings.
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If you are eligible for catch-up contributions, you can contribute an additional $7,500 in 2024 across all your employer-sponsored plans. For a Starter 401(k) plan, catch-up contributions are limited to $1,000 for that specific plan. However, the standard limit would apply across all your retirement accounts, if you contribute to more than one plan.
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For example, say you had a standard 401(k) with a previous employer but switched jobs mid-year, and the new employer offers a Starter 401(k) plan. In this case, you'd be able to contribute an extra $1,000 in your new Starter 401(k) plan specifically, but up to $7,500 in catch-up contributions in total across both accounts.

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