(#472) 2019 Retirement Plan Contribution Limits

Retirement plan contribution limits are indexed for inflation, and many have gone up for 2019, giving you opportunities to increase your retirement savings:

  • Elective deferrals to 401(k), 403(b), 457(b)(2) and 457(c)(1) plans: $19,000 (up from $18,500)
  • Contributions to defined contribution plans: $56,000 (up from $55,000)
  • Contributions to SIMPLEs: $13,000 (up from $12,500)
  • Contributions to IRAs: $6,000 (up from $5,500)

One exception is catch-up contributions for taxpayers age 50 or older, which remain at the same levels as for 2018:

  • Catch-up contributions to 401(k), 403(b), 457(b)(2) and 457(c)(1) plans: $6,000
  • Catch-up contributions to SIMPLEs: $3,000
  • Catch-up contributions to IRAs: $1,000

Keep in mind that additional factors may affect how much you’re allowed to contribute (or how much your employer can contribute on your behalf). For example, income-based limits may reduce or eliminate your ability to make Roth IRA contributions or to make deductible traditional IRA contributions.

For more on how to make the most of your tax-advantaged retirement-saving opportunities in 2019, please contact me.

About the Author: Roger Rossmeisl, CPA

Roger Rossmeisl, CPA, brings over 40 years of experience helping small business owners who have outgrown their current CPA firm and larger companies seeking responsive, cost-effective solutions they’re not receiving from their current CPA Firm. He goes beyond tax compliance, explaining the “why” behind the numbers and their impact on cash flow and other decision making. An avid follower of federal monetary policy, Roger adds insight into how government actions affect business and wealth. With a niche in franchised new vehicle dealerships, he has served over 100 franchise stores and groups through decades of evolving IRS rules and legislation.