A recent survey found that 18% of people were very confident about having enough money to live comfortably through their retirement years. At the same time, 39% were not confident. 1
Congress in 2001 passed a law that can help older workers make up for lost time. But few may understand how this generous offer can add up over time. 2
The catch-up provision allows workers who are over age 50 to make contributions to their qualified retirement plans in excess of the limits imposed on younger workers.
How It Works
Contributions to a traditional 401(k) plan are limited to $18,000 in 2017. Those who are over age 50 or who reach age 50 before the end of the year may be eligible to set aside up to $24,000 in 2017. 3
Setting aside an extra $6,000 each year into a tax-deferred retirement account has the potential to make a big difference in the eventual balance of the account. And, by extension, in the eventual income the account may generate. (See accompanying illustration.)
Catch-Up Contributions and the Bottom Line
This chart traces the hypothetical balances of two 401(k) plans. The blue line traces a 401(k) account into which the maximum regular annual contributions are made each year, but no catch-up contributions. The green line traces a 401(k) account into which the maximum regular and full catch-up contributions are made each year.
Upon reaching retirement at age 67, both accounts begin making payments of $4,000 a month.
The hypothetical account without catch-up contributions will be exhausted by the time its beneficiary reaches age 83.
1. EBRI, 2016 Retirement Confidence Survey
2. Economic Growth and Tax Relief Act of 2001
3. IRS, 2017. Catch-up contributions also are allowed for 403(b) and 457 plans. Distributions from 401(k) plans and most other employer-sponsored retirement plans are taxed as ordinary income and, if taken before age 59 1/2, may be subject to a 10% federal income tax penalty. Generally, once you reach age 70 1/2, you must begin taking required minimum distributions.
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