Increases to 401(k) and IRA contributions for 2026 give you more options to boost your savings.
Putting away as much as possible—in as many ways as possible—for the future may have huge long-term value. In 2026, IRS increases to max 401(k) and IRA contributions make it feasible to put more money in your savings.
2026 retirement account contribution amounts for 401(k)s, IRAs, and Roth IRAs
Typically, the IRS increases contribution limits for some retirement savings accounts each year. In 2026, that's true, too. Contributions for employer-sponsored retirement plans such as 401(k)s and individual retirement accounts increased for next year. Note: Some retirement plans may have lower limits, so check with your human resources or benefits department for details.
| Account | 2026 contribution limit |
|---|---|
| 401(k), 403(b), most 457 plans, Thrift Savings Plan | $24,500 |
| Individual retirement accounts (IRA), both Traditional and Roth | $7,500 |
For those age 50 and older, catch-up contributions for 401(k)s and IRAs also increased for 2026. For 401(k) plans, the catch-up contribution increased from $7,500 to $8,000. For IRAs, the catch-up contribution increased from $1,000 to $1,100. For those age 60-63, the so-called super catch-up contribution remains the same for 2026: $11,250.
There's a new catch-up contribution requirement for 2026: If you earn more than $150,000 in 2025, you must make catch-up contributions to a Roth IRA or 401(k). Previously, you could choose between pre-tax contributions or after-tax contributions. That's changed. Your employer options may differ, so check with your HR department about the availability of catch-up contributions and Roth offerings.
Income limits for IRA and Roth IRA contributions
Certain retirement savings accounts have income phase-out limitations. What that means is, if your income is above a certain level, the amount you're allowed to contribute to those accounts is reduced until it finally phases out to $0.
When it comes to traditional IRAs, there's no income limitations. Generally anyone making any amount of income can open and contribute to an IRA. (And yes, you can have an IRA even if you have a 401(k) or 403(b) through your work.)
When it comes to Roth IRAs, above certain incomes, contributions begin to phase out. Those are single/head of household making more than $153,000, and married filing jointly making more than $242,000.
2026 Roth IRA income requirements
| Filing status | Modified adjusted gross income (MAGI) | Contribution limit |
|---|---|---|
| Single | <$153,000 | $7,500, under age 50 $8,600, age 50 and older |
| ≥$153,000, <$168,000 | Phase out | |
| >$168,000 | $0 | |
| Married, filing jointly | <$242,000 | |
| ≥$242,000, <$252,000 | Phase out | |
| >$252,000 | $0 | |
| Married, filing separately | $0 | $7,500, under age 50 $8,600, age 50 and older |
| >$0, <$10,000 | Phase out | |
| ≥$10,000 | $0 |
Tax deduction limits for IRAs
Because Roth IRA contributions are made with after-tax dollars, they aren’t deductible on your taxes. But you may be able to deduct contributions to a traditional IRA; it’s dependent on income levels and whether or not you have a retirement plan through work. The IRS has more information; check with your tax professional for details on your situation.
What’s next?
How much are you saving in your Principal retirement accounts, and do you want to increase your contributions? Your individual dashboard has lots of helpful details. Here's how to find out: Navigate to any Principal (Principal.com) page. Click on the blue "Log in" button in the upper right corner of the page. Enter your username and password. On the dashboard, click on the defined contribution tile on the left side.
