What are the 2026 401(k) contribution limits?

$23,000 employee contribution + $7,500 catch-up (age 50+) = $30,500 max. Employer match is on top, with a $69,000 combined limit.

What's the difference between a Roth and Traditional IRA?

Traditional: contributions are pre-tax (lower tax bill now), withdrawals are taxed at retirement. Roth: contributions are post-tax (no immediate break), withdrawals are tax-free. Roth is usually better if you expect higher tax rates in retirement than today.

Can I do both a 401(k) and an IRA?

Yes. The $23,000 401(k) limit is separate from the $7,500 IRA limit. You can max both for up to $30,500 in tax-advantaged retirement saving in 2026.

What's a backdoor Roth IRA?

A workaround for high earners locked out of direct Roth contributions ($240k+ income joint). You contribute to a Traditional IRA (no income limit on contributions), then convert it to a Roth. Tax-free growth, no income cap.

How does the Mega Backdoor Roth work?

If your 401(k) plan allows after-tax contributions and in-service distributions, you can contribute up to $46,000 in after-tax money beyond the $23,000 pre-tax limit, then roll it to a Roth IRA. Total potential Roth space: $54,000+/year.

When can I withdraw from my 401(k) penalty-free?

Age 59½ for standard withdrawals. Earlier with the Rule of 55 (separate from your job at 55+), 72(t) SEPP (substantially equal periodic payments), or QDRO (divorce). Roth IRA contributions are always withdrawable penalty-free.

Retirement Hub

Retire on Your Terms

Build a retirement plan that works for your life. Expert guides on 401(k)s, IRAs, Social Security, and strategies to grow your nest egg — whether you are 25 or 55.

401(k) Guide Compare IRA Accounts

Expert-Written GuidesUpdated for 2026Free Calculators

2026 Retirement Contribution Limits

$24,500

401(k) Limit

Employee contribution

$7,500

IRA Limit

Under 50

$7,500

401(k) Catch-Up

Age 50+

$1,000

IRA Catch-Up

Age 50+

Explore Retirement Topics

From employer plans to Social Security, learn how to maximize every dollar for your retirement.

401(k) Guides

Maximize employer match, Roth vs. traditional, and contribution strategies

IRA Accounts

Traditional IRA, Roth IRA, SEP IRA — which is right for you?

Social Security

When to claim, how benefits are calculated, and maximizing payouts

Retirement Calculators

How much do you need? Run the numbers with our free tools

Early Retirement

FIRE strategies, coast FIRE, and retiring before 60

Retirement Income

Withdrawal strategies, annuities, and making your money last

Know your credit score before retirement planning

Your credit score affects loan rates, insurance costs, and more. Check yours free — no credit card required.

Check My Score Free →

Affiliate link: we may earn a commission at no cost to you. Disclosure.

Is your 401(k) quietly overcharging you?

Blooom reviews the funds inside your existing 401(k) and flags hidden fees and allocation drift — you keep the account where it is.

Analyze My 401(k) →

Affiliate link: we may earn a commission at no cost to you. Disclosure.

Latest Retirement Articles

View all

Best Target-Date Funds of 2026: Vanguard vs. Fidelity vs. Schwab & More

We reviewed the best target-date funds of 2026, comparing expense ratios, glide paths, and long-term returns across the biggest fund families to help you pick the right one for your retirement.

Retirement Savings by Age: 2026 Benchmarks, Averages & Action Plan

Wondering if your retirement savings are on track? This guide breaks down exactly how much you should have saved at every age in 2026, what Americans actually have, and what to do if you're behind.

401k vs Roth IRA: The Complete 2026 Comparison Guide

Choosing between a 401k and a Roth IRA is one of the most important retirement decisions you'll make. Here's everything you need to know, with 2026 contribution limits, income thresholds, and a side-b

Best IRA Accounts of 2026: Top Picks Ranked by Experts

Looking for the best IRA accounts in 2026? We compared Fidelity, Charles Schwab, Robinhood, Vanguard, Interactive Brokers, SoFi, and more on fees, investment options, and features so you can open the

Roth vs Traditional IRA 2026: Which Is Right for You?

Retirement Roth IRA vs. Traditional IRA 2026: Which Is Better for Your Retirement? Last Updated: April 2026 | Reading Time: ~10 minutes Quick Answer: There's no universal winner between Roth an

Social Security Benefits Guide 2026: Maximize Your Retirement Income

RETIREMENT Social Security Benefits Guide 2026: Maximize Your Retirement Income Updated for 2026 COLA increase. Learn claiming strategies, eligibility, taxation, and how to optimize your benefits. Qui

500+ Opportunities

Updated Daily

100% Free Tools

$80B+ Unclaimed

Our methodology: We research, test, and verify every opportunity to ensure accuracy and value.

WalletGrower is independently owned and operated. We maintain editorial independence from our affiliate partners.

Learn more →

Retirement planning tips, weekly

401(k) strategies, IRA insights, and retirement planning guides. Free.

Join 10,000+ readers. No spam, unsubscribe anytime.