A recent survey found that 28% of workers are very confident about having enough money to live comfortably through their retirement years. At the same time, 27% are not confident.1
In 2001 congress passed a law that can help older workers make up for lost time. But few may understand how this generous offer can add up over time.2
The “catch-up” provision allows workers who are over age 50 to make contributions to their qualified retirement plans in excess of the limits imposed on younger workers.
How It Works
Contributions to a traditional 401(k) plan are limited to $20,500 in 2022. Those who are over age 50 – or who reach age 50 before the end of the year – may be eligible to set aside up to $27,000 in 2022.3
Setting aside an extra $6,500 each year into a tax-deferred retirement account has the potential to make a big difference in the eventual balance of the account. And by extension, in the eventual income the account may generate. (See accompanying chart.)
Catch-Up Contributions and the Bottom Line
This chart traces the hypothetical balances of two 401(k) plans. The blue line traces a 401(k) account into which $20,500 annual contributions are made each year. The green line traces a 401(k) account into which an additional $6,500 in contributions are made each year, for a total of $27,000 in contributions a year.
Upon reaching retirement at age 67, both accounts begin making withdrawals of $6,000 a month.
The hypothetical account without catch-up contributions will be exhausted by the time its beneficiary reaches age 81. Keep in mind, the IRS regularly updates these maximum contribution limits.
This hypothetical example is used for comparison purposes and is not intended to represent the past or future performance of any investment. Fees and other expenses were not considered in the illustration. Actual returns may vary.
Both accounts assume an annual rate of return of 5%. The rate of return on investments will vary over time, particularly for longer-term investments.
In most circumstances, you must begin taking required minimum distributions from your 401(k) or other defined contribution plan in the year you turn 72. Withdrawals from your 401(k) or other defined contribution plans are taxed as ordinary income, and if taken before age 59½, may be subject to a 10% federal income tax penalty.
1. EBRI.org, 2022
2. Economic Growth and Tax Relief Act of 2001
3. IRS.gov, 2022. Catch-up contributions also are allowed for 403(b) and 457 plans. Distributions from 401(k) plans and most other employer-sponsored retirement plans are taxed as ordinary income and, if taken before age 59½, may be subject to a 10% federal income tax penalty. In most circumstances, you must begin taking required minimum distributions from your 401(k) or other defined contribution plan in the year you turn 72.
Contribution Limit Increases
The Internal Revenue Service has released new limits for the coming year. After months of high inflation and financial uncertainty, some of these cost-of-living-based adjustments have reached near-record levels.
Individual Retirement Accounts (IRAs)
IRA contribution limits are up $500 in 2023 to $6,500. Catch-up contributions for those over age 50 remain at $1,000, bringing the total limit to $7,500.
Roth IRAs
The income phase-out range for Roth IRA contributions increases to $138,000-$153,000 for single filers and heads of household, a $9,000 increase. For married couples filing jointly, phase-out will be $218,000 to $228,000, a $14,000 increase. Married individuals filing separately see their phase-out range remain at $0-10,000.
Workplace Retirement Accounts
Those with 401(k), 403(b), 457 plans, and similar accounts will see a $2,000 increase for 2023, the limit rising to $22,500. Those aged 50 and older will now have the ability to contribute an extra $7,500, bringing their total limit to $30,000.
SIMPLE Accounts
A $1,500 increase in limits for 2023 gives individuals contributing to this incentive match plan a $15,500 stop light.
Other Changes
In addition to changes in contributions limits, the IRS also announced several other changes for 2023, including an increase to the annual exclusion for gifts to $17,000 per person and an increase to the estate tax exclusion threshold. Keep in mind that we provide updates for informational purposes only, so consult with your tax professional before making any changes in anticipation of the new 2023 levels. You can also contact our offices, and we can provide you with information about the pending changes.
The content is developed from sources believed to be providing accurate information. The information in this material is not intended as tax or legal advice. It may not be used for the purpose of avoiding any federal tax penalties. Please consult legal or tax professionals for specific information regarding your individual situation. This material was developed and produced by FMG Suite to provide information on a topic that may be of interest. FMG Suite is not affiliated with the named broker-dealer, state- or SEC-registered investment advisory firm. The opinions expressed and material provided are for general information, and should not be considered a solicitation for the purchase or sale of any security. Copyright 2022 FMG Suite.
Josh Sheard
Sage Investments LLC