What Is the 401(k) Limit for 2021?

Author: / 5 Feb 2021 / 401(k) Plan Information

retirement saver reviewing contribution limits

The individual 401(k) limit for 2021 is unchanged at $19,500. If you’re over 50, you can contribute a total of $26,000. The total combined employer/employee contribution is capped at $58,000.

Each year, the IRS announces whether it will raise the maximum allowable 401(k) contributions limit. Some years, the limit increases $500 or $1,000; other years, the limit stays the same. Attaining the maximum contribution shields 401(k) plan participants from having to pay federal taxes on the amount contributed, while building the best possible nest egg for retirement.

Has the 401(k) limit changed in 2021?

The main individual 401(k) contribution limit remained the same, but the combined employer/employee max increased $1,000. If you’re self-employed, you can save $58K.

Why does the 401(k) limit change?

Sometimes the IRS adjusts the maximum limit based on “cost of living increases.” From 2018 to 2019, they increased the individual limit $500 from $18,500 to $19,000, and the total employer/employee contributions from $55,000 to $56,000.

What are catch-up contributions?

Those over 50 are getting closer to retirement. Depending on how well you’ve saved and how your cost of living has fared over the years, you may wish to increase contributions to allow for a more comfortable retirement.

What is the combined employer/employee 401(k) limit in 2021?

Most employer plans match some or all employee contributions. The employer match represents free money on top of the $19,500 individual limit that employees can earn just by participating in the plan. The combined employer and employee contribution limit is $58,000 in 2021.

This figure also matters if you are a business owner, freelancer, or solopreneur with a Solo 401k, as you can contribute as both “employer” and “employee” to the 2021 maximum of $58,000. If you’re over 50, you can save $64,500. A spouse may also participate in this plan for a maximum household savings of $116,000 (if you’re under 50) or $129,000 (if you’re over 50).

Adding a cash balance plan can help you maximize tax and retirement savings further, possibly doubling or tripling the amount set aside for your future.

What can you contribute to a Solo 401(k) plan in 2021?

Freelancers, solopreneurs, and the self-employed can contribute to a Solo 401(k) plan as both employer and employee. The total contribution amount allowed in 2020 is $57,000, though individuals over 50 can contribute an additional $6,500. Those who qualify to make catch-up contributions can put up to $63,500 into a Solo 401(k) for 2020.

If you have already reached your maximum contribution limit, adding a cash balance plan can double or even triple your tax savings.

What is the SIMPLE plan contribution limit in 2021?

Companies with fewer than 100 employees are eligible for a SIMPLE retirement savings plan. This limit remains the same at 100% of compensation or $13,500 in 2021. Catchup contributions are allowed for employees over 50.

For SIMPLE plans, the elective deferral limit is 100% of compensation or $13,500 in 2020 and 2021. If the employee is age 50 or older, catch-up contributions may also be allowed.

What can you contribute to a 403b or 457 plan in 2021?

Contribution limits for 403b nonprofit and 457 government plans have stayed the same $19,500 in 2021.

How much can you contribute to IRAs in 2021?

Many retirement savers favor the 401(k) because it allows a higher contribution limit than IRAs. Contribution limits for Traditional and Roth IRAs remained unchanged at $6,000 for 2021. This marks the third consecutive year of no change. Prior to 2019, the $5,500 IRA contribution allowance remained consistent for six years. Those over 50 can put in an extra $1,000 to catchup. IRA eligibility can be limited by income range, marital status, and workplace plan availability.

Should you hit the maximum contribution limit?

Many Americans like to take advantage of 401(k) options because they reduce the taxable income for the year. So, if you are earning $210,000/year and put in the maximum $19,500, you will only be taxed on $190,500 worth of income, which takes you from the 35% to the 32% tax bracket. Instead of owing the IRS $73,500 in taxes, you will only pay $60,800. Any money contributed to the plan compounds, with all gains tax-deferred. You only pay tax once you start withdrawing the funds in retirement.

Not everyone can afford to save $19,500 each year, but financial advisers recommend setting aside 15 percent of your income for retirement – or, at the very least, saving enough to meet the maximum employer match. Plans vary, but employers often match 50% of your contributions up to 6% of your salary or 100% of your contributions up to 3% of your salary.

Contact Ubiquity to set up a simple, low-cost 401(k) for your small business and start saving today. We offer our clients ample resources and assistance with their plans, and our experts are ready to answer your questions about your 2021 retirement contribution limits, as well as the 401(k) contribution limit deadlines for 2020. Call today and discover for yourself what sets Ubiquity apart from the rest!

Take the next step – Let me help you.

Contact Jay Jacob, Sr. Retirement Plan Consultant

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Talk to Sales
Schedule a Free Consultation

Contact Support
Visit our Help Center
support@myubiquity.com
Monday–Friday
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© 2024 Ubiquity Retirement + Savings
44 Montgomery Street, Suite 300
San Francisco, CA 94104