IRS Retirement Contribution Limits – 2026

Each year the IRS sets new limits for what employees can contribute to their 403(b) and 401(k) retirement plans. Employees who will turn ages 60-63 have the opportunity to make increased pre-tax contributions to the Voluntary Contribution Retirement Plan (VCRP). 

Beginning January 1, 2026, employees age 50 or older whose 2025 FICA wages are $150,000 or more will be required to make all catch-up contributions on a Roth (after-tax) basis. This applies only to catch-up contributions; regular pre-tax or Roth deferrals are not affected. These increases provide additional opportunities to boost your retirement savings in the coming year. In 2026, DCRP contributions are made on the first $265,000 of salary, up from $255,000 in 2025.

2026 IRS Contribution Limits

• Under age 50: $24,500
• Age 50-59: $32,500
• Age 60-63: $35,750
• Age 64+: $32,500

These limits are inclusive of both DCRP (3%) and VCRP contributions. For those who are already maximizing their VCRP contribution, this additional amount will be automatically increased. The maximums apply only to employee contributions, so the contributions Georgetown makes to the Defined Contribution Plan do not count for purposes of calculating this limitation.