401(k) Catch-up Calculator
Maximize your retirement savings as you approach retirement. See your full 2026 contribution capacity.
Last updated: April 2026
Retirement 'Catch-up' Contributions
The IRS allows older workers to contribute more to their retirement plans than younger workers. This allows individuals closer to retirement to 'catch up' on their savings.
In 2026, the standard limit for anyone under 50 is $24,000. If you are 50 or older, you get an additional allowance.
SECURE 2.0 Update: New for 2025/2026, savers aged 60-63 receive a special 'Super Catch-up' allowance, which is significantly higher than the standard catch-up.
How to use this calculator
- 1Enter Your Age — Limits change at ages 50 and again at 60.
- 2Current Contribution — Input what you currently have slated for your 401(k) this year.
- 3View Max Capacity — The results show the total amount you can legally shelter from taxes.
Formula & example
Total Capacity = Base Limit ($24k) + Tiered Catch-up Allowance
If you are 62 years old, your total 401(k) limit for 2026 is $24,000 + $11,250 = $35,250.
Benefits
Accelerated Savings
Inject more capital into your retirement accounts just as you hit your peak earning years.
Lower Taxable Income
Contributions to a Traditional 401(k) lower your current tax bill.
Compound Interest
Even at 50, your catch-up contributions have 15-20 years to grow tax-deferred.
Use cases
Late Bloomers
If you didn't save much in your 20s and 30s, use these limits to accelerate your timeline.
Empty Nesters
Now that kids are out of the house, redirect that cash flow into your own retirement.
Frequently asked questions
Do catch-up contributions receive employer matches?+
Most employers only match up to a percentage of your salary (e.g. 5%), regardless of whether it is a base or catch-up contribution.
Can I do a catch-up in a Roth 401(k)?+
Yes, you can choose Traditional (pre-tax) or Roth. However, if you earn over $145k, SECURE 2.0 may mandate the catch-up portion be Roth.