401(k) Contribution Limits 2026: How Much Can You Save?
Use our [401(k) Calculator](/calculators/finance/401k-calculator) to project exactly how maxing out affects your retirement.
2026 Limits at a Glance
| Type | 2026 Limit | Change |
|---|---|---|
| Employee (under 50) | $23,500 | +$500 |
| Catch-up (50-59, 64+) | $7,500 | No change |
| Catch-up (60-63 — SECURE 2.0) | $11,250 | +$3,750 |
| Total with employer match | $70,000 | +$1,000 |
The SECURE 2.0 Super Catch-Up (Ages 60-63)
Ages 60-63 get $11,250 instead of $7,500 — a new benefit from SECURE 2.0. Use our [Catch-Up Contribution Calculator](/calculators/finance/catch-up-contribution-calculator) to see the tax savings.
The Mega Backdoor Roth: Up to $70,000/Year
If your plan allows after-tax contributions + in-service rollovers:
1. Contribute $23,500 pre-tax
2. Receive employer match (say $10,000)
3. Add after-tax contributions up to $70,000 total limit: $36,500 more
4. Roll those into Roth
Ask HR: "Does our plan allow after-tax contributions and in-plan Roth conversions?"
Traditional vs Roth 401(k): Quick Guide
| Scenario | Choose |
|---|---|
| Higher tax rate now than retirement | Traditional |
| Lower tax rate now (early career) | Roth |
| Unsure — middle career | Split 50/50 |
Use our [401k vs Roth IRA Calculator](/calculators/finance/401k-vs-roth-ira-calculator) to run your specific numbers.
Related Tools
- [401k vs Pension Calculator](/calculators/finance/401k-vs-pension-calculator) — Is your pension better?
- [Social Security Calculator](/calculators/finance/social-security-calculator) — How 401k interacts with SS
- [Retirement Calculator](/calculators/finance/retirement-calculator) — Full retirement number by age