2025 Retirement Changes: Super Catch-Up 401(k) Contributions Explained

Evaluating the impact of the SECURE 2.0 legislation on catch-up contributions for 2025 and beyond.

Retirement planning just got a major boost for those of you in your early 60s. Thanks to new changes introduced by the SECURE 2.0 legislation, there are significant updates to how much you can contribute to your retirement plans. These updates are effective right now, starting in 2025, and they present a unique opportunity to supercharge your savings during this crucial stage of retirement planning.

If you’re between the ages of 60 and 63, here’s what you need to know.

The Basics of Catch-Up Contributions

If you’re over 50, you’re probably already familiar with catch-up contributions. These are extra amounts you’re allowed to contribute to your 401(k), 403(b), or 457 retirement plan once you hit the big 5-0. For example, in 2025, the standard catch-up contribution is $7,500, allowing you to exceed the regular contribution limit of $23,500 and save up to $31,000 in total.

But here’s where the game changes.

Super Catch-Up Contributions for Ages 60-63

Starting in 2025, individuals aged 60 to 63 can contribute even more than the standard catch-up limit. This “super catch-up contribution” allows you to save 50% more than the regular catch-up amount.

Here’s how it works:

• Standard Contribution Limit (2025): $23,500
• Normal Catch-Up Contribution: $7,500
• Super Catch-Up Contribution (60-63): $11,250 (50% higher than $7,500)
• Total Contribution Limit for Ages 60-63: $34,750

That’s an extra $3,750 you can save for your retirement!

The 2026 Roth Catch-Up Rule

While the super catch-up contribution is exciting, another rule kicks in starting in 2026 that you need to be aware of. If you earn more than $145,000 in the prior calendar year, all catch-up contributions—including the super catch-up—must be made as Roth contributions.

What does this mean for you?

• No tax deduction today: Roth contributions are made with after-tax dollars, so you won’t get a tax break now.
• Tax-free growth and withdrawals: The upside is that your money grows tax-free, and qualified withdrawals in retirement are also tax-free.

If you’re someone who typically makes traditional (pre-tax) catch-up contributions, 2025 might be your last opportunity to do so before the Roth requirement kicks in.

What Should You Do?

Here are a few steps to consider as you navigate these changes:

1. Maximize Your Super Catch-Up Contribution in 2025: If you’re between 60 and 63, take full advantage of the $34,750 total contribution limit while you can.
2. Plan for the Roth Requirement in 2026: If your income exceeds $145,000, start thinking about how Roth contributions fit into your overall tax strategy.
3. Consider Future Tax Changes: With potential tax rate increases on the horizon in 2026, it’s essential to evaluate how these changes could impact your retirement savings.

Take Control of Your Retirement

The super catch-up contribution is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to boost your retirement savings during your early 60s. If you fall into this age group, now is the time to take action and secure your financial future.

At Keil Financial Partners, we specialize in helping our clients maximize their retirement income, minimize taxes, and avoid costly mistakes. If you’re ready to take the next step, visit KeilFP.com to see how we can help.

Don’t let these new opportunities pass you by—2025 is your year to make the most of your retirement savings.

Connect With Jeremy Keil:

• Mr. Retirement YouTube Channel
• LinkedIn: Jeremy Keil
• Facebook: Jeremy Keil
• LinkedIn: Keil Financial Partners

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