401(k) contribution limits for 2026
For 2026 you can contribute up to $24,500 of your own pay to a 401(k). If you are 50 or older you can add a catch-up contribution. Limits change most years, so confirm them on IRS.gov.
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2026 limits at a glance
These are the IRS limits announced for 2026. Check IRS.gov for the current figures before you rely on them.
Retirement contribution limits
| Limit | 2026 amount |
|---|---|
| Employee 401(k) contribution | $24,500 |
| Catch-up, age 50 and over | $8,000 |
| Catch-up, ages 60 to 63 (higher limit) | $11,250 |
| Total from you and your employer (under 50) | $72,000 |
| IRA contribution (traditional or Roth) | $7,500 |
| IRA catch-up, age 50 and over | $1,100 |
Source: IRS. Limits can change; verify on irs.gov.
What the limit means per paycheck
A $24,500 yearly limit is about $2,042 a month, or $942 per biweekly paycheck. You do not have to reach the limit: contributing enough to get the full employer match is the first goal.
| Pay frequency | Contribution to reach $24,500 |
|---|---|
| Monthly | $2,042 |
| Twice a month | $1,021 |
| Every two weeks | $942 |
| Weekly | $471 |
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What happens if you contribute too much
Excess contributions must be removed by the tax deadline or they can be taxed twice. If you change jobs mid-year, the limit applies across all your 401(k) plans, not per employer.
Sources and further reading
Questions people ask
What is the 401(k) limit for 2026?
$24,500 for employee contributions, plus $8,000 in catch-up contributions if you are 50 or older. Verify on IRS.gov.
Does the employer match count toward the limit?
No. The $24,500 limit applies to your own contributions. A separate, higher limit applies to the total from you and your employer.
Results are estimates for information only, not financial advice. Read the full disclaimer.
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