401(k) Catch-Up Contribution Calculator

Last updated: August 11, 2026 · Figures for tax year 2026

If you are 50 or older, the IRS lets you save extra in your 401(k) beyond the regular limit. This calculator shows your 2026 limits and how much room you still have for the year.

How this calculator works

For 2026, the regular 401(k) contribution limit is $24,500. If you are 50 or older, you can add up to $8,000 more as a catch-up contribution — $11,250 if you are 60 to 63 — for a total of up to $32,500, provided your employer plan allows catch-ups. The calculator subtracts what you have already contributed to show your remaining room for the year. If you turned 50 during the year, you qualify for the full catch-up amount even if your birthday falls late in the year.

Frequently asked questions

Who qualifies for 401(k) catch-up contributions?

Anyone age 50 or older by the end of the calendar year can make catch-up contributions, but only if their employer plan permits them. The 2026 catch-up limit is $8,000 on top of the regular $24,500 limit, for a total of $32,500. If you are 60 to 63, a higher super catch-up of $11,250 applies.

What if I have more than one 401(k) plan?

The $24,500 regular limit and the $8,000 catch-up limit apply to all your 401(k), 403(b), and most 457(b) plans combined. You cannot exceed the combined limit even if you contribute to several employer plans.

Is a 401(k) catch-up contribution tax deductible?

Yes. Contributions to a traditional 401(k) are made with pre-tax dollars, so catch-up contributions reduce your taxable income for the year, up to your plan's limit. Contributions to a Roth 401(k) are made after tax.

Disclaimer: Results are estimates for general information only and do not constitute financial, tax, or legal advice. Figures reflect 2026 rules and may change. Always confirm current limits and consult a qualified professional before making decisions. Official figures: IRS.gov · 2026 limits per IRS tax inflation adjustments.