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.
The extra contributions are intended to help those nearing retirement catch up and set aside more earnings.
2025 and 2026 catch-up contribution limits
Standard 401(k)
In a standard 401(k) plan, your catch-up limit will vary depending on what age you turned that year.
Participant age | 2025 | 2026 |
50 - 59 | $7,500 | $8,000 |
60 - 63 | $11,250 | $11,250 |
64 and older | $7,500 | $8,000 |
Starter 401(k)
For a Starter 401(k) plan, catch-up contributions are limited to $1,000 for that specific plan. Note that the extended catch-up does not apply to Starter 401(k) plans.
However, the standard limit would apply across all your retirement accounts, if you contribute to more than one plan. 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 the standard catch-up limit based on your age in total across both accounts.