Episode 176: Changes Coming to Catch-up Contributions to Retirement Accounts

Are you age 50 or older and contributing extra to your 401(k), 403(b), or 457(b)? Big changes are coming to catch-up contributions that could affect your retirement planning—especially if you’re a high-income earner.

In this episode of The Grow Your Wealthy Mindset, I break down the IRS’s final regulations on catch-up contributions under the SECURE 2.0 Act and what they mean for you starting in 2026.

We’ll cover:

• Who is considered a “high-income earner” and how that definition is determined
• Why all catch-up contributions will soon need to be Roth contributions (and what that means for your taxes)
• Projected contribution limits for 2026, including the special higher limits for ages 60–63
• How multiple employers, W-2 wages, and self-employment income affect eligibility
• Practical strategies for adjusting your payroll contributions ahead of time

These rules are complex—and a little confusing—so I’ll walk you through the details step by step to help you plan with confidence.

🔑 Key Takeaway: Starting in 2026 or 2027, if you earn more than $145,000, you’ll no longer be able to make pre-tax catch-up contributions. Understanding the new limits and planning now will help you avoid surprises later.

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Dr. Elisa Chiang is a physician and money coach who helps other doctors reach their financial goals by mastering their money mindset through personalized 1:1 coaching .

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