Each year the U.S. government adjusts the limits for qualified plans and Social Security to reflect cost-of-living adjustments and changes in the law. The elective deferral and catch-up limits are always based on the calendar year.
| Limit | 2026 | 2025 |
|---|---|---|
| General Limits | ||
| Annual Compensation Limit | $360,000 | $350,000 |
| Limits on Benefits | ||
| Defined Contribution Plans | $72,000 | $70,000 |
| Defined Benefit Plans | $290,000 | $280,000 |
| Elective Deferral Limits | ||
| 401(k) Plan | $24,500 | $23,500 |
| 403(b) Plan | $24,500 | $23,500 |
| 457 Plan | $24,500 | $23,500 |
| SIMPLE Plan | $17,000 | $16,500 |
| IRA | $7,500 | $7,000 |
| Catch-Up Contributions (Age 50+) | ||
| 401(k) Plan | $8,000 | $7,500 |
| 403(b) Plan | $8,000 | $7,500 |
| 457 Plan | $8,000 | $7,500 |
| SIMPLE Plan | $4,000 | $3,500 |
| IRA | $1,100 | $1,000 |
| Other Limits | ||
| Social Security Taxable Wage Base | $184,500 | $176,100 |
| Highly Compensated Employee Definition | $160,000 | $160,000 |