401(k) and IRA Contribution Limits for 2026 — Everything You Need to Know
Every year, the IRS adjusts contribution limits for retirement accounts based on inflation, and 2026 brings several important changes that could affec
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Retirement Planning Guide 2026
Everything you need to plan for retirement — 401(k), IRA, Roth IRA, Social Security, contribution limits, and expert guides updated for 2026.
18 guides available
2026 Key Limits at a Glance
$23,500
401(k) Limit
Under 50
$7,000
IRA Limit
Traditional & Roth
$31,000
401(k) with Catch-Up
Age 50+
2.5%
SS COLA 2026
Cost-of-Living Adjustment
Retirement Account Types
401(k)
Employer-sponsored retirement account with 2026 contribution limit of $23,500 ($31,000 if 50+). Pre-tax contributions reduce your taxable income. Many employers offer matching contributions.
Read our 401(k) guide →Traditional IRA
Individual retirement account with tax-deductible contributions up to $7,000/year ($8,000 if 50+). Taxes are paid on withdrawals in retirement. Required minimum distributions start at age 73.
Roth IRA
After-tax retirement account with tax-free qualified withdrawals. Same $7,000 annual limit as Traditional IRA. Income limits apply: $150,000 (single) / $236,000 (married). No required minimum distributions during owner's lifetime.
Social Security
Federal retirement benefit program. Full retirement age is 67. 2026 COLA adjustment: 2.5%. Maximum taxable earnings: $176,100. Claim early at 62 (reduced) or delay to 70 (increased).
SEP IRA
Simplified Employee Pension for self-employed and small business owners. 2026 contribution limit of $70,000 or 25% of compensation, whichever is less. Only employer contributions — no employee elective deferrals.
SIMPLE IRA
Savings Incentive Match Plan for small businesses with 100 or fewer employees. 2026 employee contribution limit of $16,500. Employers must either match contributions or make non-elective contributions.
401(k) vs IRA — Quick Comparison
| Feature | 401(k) | Traditional IRA | Roth IRA |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2026 Limit | $23,500 | $7,000 | $7,000 |
| Catch-Up (50+) | +$7,500 | +$1,000 | +$1,000 |
| Tax Treatment | Pre-tax contributions | Tax-deductible contributions | After-tax (tax-free growth) |
| Employer Match | Yes | No | No |
| Income Limits | None | Deduction may be limited | $150,000 (single) / $236,000 (married) |
| RMDs | Starting at age 73 | Starting at age 73 | None (owner's lifetime) |
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the 401(k) contribution limit for 2026?+
The 401(k) contribution limit for 2026 is $23,500 for workers under 50. Those 50 and older can contribute up to $31,000 with the $7,500 catch-up contribution. These limits apply to employee elective deferrals only — employer matching contributions are separate.
What is the IRA contribution limit for 2026?+
The IRA contribution limit for 2026 is $7,000 for those under 50, and $8,000 for those 50 and older (including the $1,000 catch-up contribution). This limit applies across all your Traditional and Roth IRAs combined.
What is the difference between a Traditional IRA and a Roth IRA?+
Traditional IRA contributions may be tax-deductible, and you pay taxes on withdrawals in retirement. Roth IRA contributions are made with after-tax dollars, but qualified withdrawals in retirement are completely tax-free. Roth IRAs have no required minimum distributions (RMDs) during the owner's lifetime, while Traditional IRAs require RMDs starting at age 73.
What is the full retirement age for Social Security in 2026?+
The full retirement age (FRA) for Social Security is 67 for anyone born in 1960 or later. You can claim benefits as early as 62 at a reduced amount, or delay until 70 to receive delayed retirement credits of 8% per year above your FRA benefit. The 2026 COLA adjustment is 2.5%, and the maximum taxable earnings cap is $176,100.
Can I contribute to both a 401(k) and an IRA?+
Yes, you can contribute to both a 401(k) and an IRA in the same year. The 2026 limits are $23,500 for the 401(k) and $7,000 for the IRA. However, your ability to deduct Traditional IRA contributions may be limited if you or your spouse are covered by a workplace retirement plan and your income exceeds certain thresholds. Roth IRA contributions have their own income limits: $150,000 (single) / $236,000 (married).
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Disclaimer: This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute financial, tax, or retirement planning advice. Contribution limits and tax rules are based on 2026 IRS guidelines and may change. Consult a qualified financial advisor or tax professional before making retirement planning decisions.