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Navigating New Changes in Pension Contributions

Approaching retirement brings unique opportunities to supercharge your savings, especially with recent changes in pension catch-up contributions. Individuals aged 50 and over can augment their retirement plans with additional catch-up contributions into various salary reduction plans, such as 401(k) Deferred Compensation plans, 403(b) TSA plans, 457(b) Government plans, and SIMPLE plans.

For the age 50+ category, contributions remain a robust part of retirement strategy. As of now, the catch-up contribution limits through 2025 are set at $7,500 for 401(k), 403(b), and 457(b) plans, while SIMPLE plans have a limit of $3,500. These figures are subject to inflation adjustments over time.

New Requirements for Age 60-63
Starting in 2025, the SECURE 2.0 Act introduces additional incentives for those aged 60 to 63, recognizing this period as a prime time for bolstering retirement funds. This legislation permits extra catch-up contributions of up to $10,000 or 50% more than the standard catch-up amount—whichever is greater, resulting in a maximum of $11,250 for 2025. SIMPLE plans adjust slightly differently, offering a maximum of $5,250, or $6,350 for plans with 25 or fewer employees. Image 1

Mandating Roth Designations for Higher Earners
Looking ahead to 2026, high-income earners earning over $145,000 in the prior year from the plan-sponsoring employer must allocate catch-up contributions to Roth accounts. This threshold will adjust for inflation in future years. Others may choose to opt for Roth contributions regardless.

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  • Employers lacking designated Roth plans cannot facilitate catch-up contributions for employees with wages exceeding the threshold.
  • Employees new to the company last year are affected by this requirement if their annual earnings surpassed the threshold.

Unlocking Roth Advantages
Planning strategically around these changes offers substantial tax advantages. Roth accounts provide benefits by neutralizing uncertainties around future tax rates, as qualified withdrawals of contributions and gains are tax-free. This makes Roth vehicles an exceptional tool for estate planning, with no required distributions during the owner’s lifetime, enhancing financial security for heirs. Image 2

  • Meeting the five-year rule is crucial; this mandates contributions span over five consecutive years to qualify for tax-free distributions.

Timing Strategies
Considering the timing of Roth contributions is essential. Younger high-income individuals should consider initiating Roth contributions as soon as possible to meet the five-year rule before retirement. On the other hand, those nearing retirement need to consult on alternative methods to align these contributions with broader financial goals.

If you have questions about integrating these changes into your financial strategy, don't hesitate to contact our office for tailored advice. With our proactive strategy and expertise, we can help you navigate these updates to optimize your retirement planning.

Schedule a Complimentary Consultation
Choose from our locations and meet with one of our qualified staff members. If you prefer to secure a Virtual Meeting via Zoom or Phone, please contact our offices at 877.908.1040
Schedule Here
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