401(k) Catch-Up Contributions at 50, and the Super Catch-Up at 60–63
2026 limits: $24,500, $32,500 from 50 and $35,750 at 60–63. What maxing out from 50 is worth, and the new Roth rule.
By the MoneyBackKit team · Updated October 27, 2026 · 3 min read
From age 50 you can put more into a 401(k) than younger workers. And since 2025, people aged 60 to 63 get an even bigger "super catch-up". If your 50s are your highest-earning years, these extra amounts can make a real difference.
2026 limits by age
| Age during the year | Most you can put in |
|---|---|
| Under 50 (e.g. 45) | $24,500 |
| 50 to 59 | $32,500 |
| 60 to 63 | $35,750 |
| 64 and over | $32,500 |
Note the drop at 64: the super catch-up only applies in the years you turn 60, 61, 62 and 63.
What maxing out from 50 is worth
Someone on $150,000 with $300,000 saved at 50 who contributes the maximum each year (instead of 15% of pay) reaches about $1,688,967 at 65, against $1,412,902, at a 7% return and before any employer match.
401(k) Calculator 2026 (with Employer Match)See your 401(k) limit and balance by age.