2026 contribution limits: 401(k), IRA, SEP, SIMPLE and HSA

Choose your age group and HSA coverage to see the 2026 maximums in one view, then check the income limits for Roth IRA contributions and traditional IRA deductions.

2026 income limits that can reduce what you may contribute

Which account first?

A common order for people with a workplace plan is: contribute enough to capture any employer match (free money), fund an HSA if you have an eligible plan (it can be deductible going in, grow tax-free and come out tax-free for medical costs), then an IRA, then more into the 401(k). The right mix of traditional versus Roth depends on whether your tax rate today is higher or lower than you expect in retirement.

Retirement accounts for the self-employed

Freelancers can open a SEP-IRA or a solo 401(k) with no employer. A solo 401(k) lets you contribute as both employee ($24,500) and employer (about 20% of net profit after the self-employment tax deduction), often allowing more than a SEP at modest incomes. A SEP is simpler to set up. Both reduce taxable income, which lowers the amount you owe on quarterly estimates.

Catch-up contributions

People 50 and older can add $8,000 to a 401(k) and $1,100 to an IRA in 2026. A higher 401(k) catch-up of $11,250 applies at ages 60 through 63. Higher earners may be required to make catch-up contributions to a Roth account under the SECURE 2.0 rules, so check with your plan administrator.

Deadlines

IRA and HSA contributions for 2026 can be made until the tax filing deadline in April 2027. 401(k) employee deferrals must come out of 2026 paychecks, so the window closes on December 31 for most people.

Sources

• IRS Notice 2025-67: 2026 amounts relating to retirement plans and IRAs
• IRS: 401(k) limit increases to $24,500 for 2026, IRA limit to $7,500
• IRS Rev. Proc. 2025-19: 2026 HSA and HDHP limits

Last reviewed 2026-11-09. General information for planning only, not tax, legal or financial advice. Nothing you enter leaves your browser.

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