2018 Retirement Contribution Limits for 401(k)s and IRAs

Posted by Ronald J. Fichera Nov 21, 2017

Some savers can contribute more to their retirement nest eggs in 2018.

Americans have $26.6 trillion stashed away for retirement. This whopping total includes the trillions of dollars held in 401(k)s and IRAs. Some retirement savers will be able to save more in 2018, thanks to IRS changes to certain contribution limits and income limits.

401(k)s

In 2018, the annual contribution limit for 401(k)s is increasing to $18,500 from $18,000. This increase also applies to 403(b) and 457 plans, as well as the federal government's Thrift Savings Plan.

50 or older? The catch-up contribution for 401(k)s will remain at $6,000, bringing the maximum total contribution limit to $24,500 in 2018.

IRAs

The IRA contribution limit will remain at $5,500 in 2018, and the catch-up contribution for people 50 or older will stay at $1,000. If you turn 50 in 2018, you can make the full $6,500 contribution any time after January 1; you don't need to wait until your birthday.

Roth IRAs

The income limits to qualify to make Roth IRA contributions will increase slightly in 2018.

Filing taxes as single or head of household? The maximum amount can be contributed to a Roth IRA if modified adjusted gross income (MAGI) is less than $120,000. The contribution amount will phase out completely once MAGI tops $135,000 (up from $118,000 to $133,000 in 2017).

Married couples filing jointly? The maximum amount can be contributed if MAGI is less than $189,000, with the amount phasing out above $199,000 (up from $186,000 to $196,000 in 2017).

Additional information can be found on the IRS Web site at:

https://www.irs.gov/retirement-plans/plan-sponsor/types-of-retirement-plans

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As a reminder, this Blog Post is for informational purposes only and is not intended as legal or tax advice.