2026 employee deferral limit
For 2026, the IRS employee deferral limit for 401(k), 403(b), most 457 plans, and the federal government's Thrift Savings Plan is $24,500.
Catch-up contributions
If you are age 50 or older, the general 2026 catch-up limit is $8,000. For ages 60 through 63, the higher 2026 catch-up limit is $11,250.
What this means
A worker under age 50 may generally defer up to $24,500 in 2026. A worker age 50 to 59 or 64+ may have a $32,500 employee deferral limit. A worker age 60 to 63 may have a $35,750 employee deferral limit.
Employer match is separate
Employer matching contributions are not counted against your employee deferral limit, but they may be subject to broader annual addition limits and plan rules.
Use the calculator
Estimate your contribution and employer match with the 401(k) Contribution Calculator.
Important note
This guide is educational only and is not financial, investment, tax, legal, accounting, or retirement advice. Verify limits and plan rules before changing payroll elections.