Quick answer: The projected 2027 401(k) limit is $25,500, up from $24,500 in 2026. Workers 50 and older can add $8,500 in catch-up contributions, and workers aged 60 to 63 can add $11,750. These are projections from benefits firms Milliman and Marsh. The IRS usually announces official limits in early-to-mid November, and this page will be updated the same day.
Projected · IRS announcement expected mid-November
💰 2027 401(k) Max-Out Calculator
How much to contribute per paycheck to hit the projected 2027 limit
2027 vs 2026 Retirement Contribution Limits
| Limit | 2026 (official) | 2027 (projected) | Change |
|---|---|---|---|
| 401(k), 403(b), 457 & TSP employee limit | $24,500 | $25,500 | +$1,000 |
| Catch-up, age 50+ | $8,000 | $8,500 | +$500 |
| Catch-up, ages 60–63 | $11,250 | $11,750 | +$500 |
| Total limit, all contributions (§415(c)) | $72,000 | $75,000 | +$3,000 |
| IRA limit | $7,500 | Not yet projected | — |
| IRA catch-up, age 50+ | $1,100 | Not yet projected | — |
| Roth catch-up wage threshold | $150,000 | $155,000 | +$5,000 |
2026 figures: IRS, announced November 13, 2025. 2027 projections: Milliman and Marsh, as reported October 2026. IRA limits are not projected because they rise only in $500 steps. The 2027 HSA limits are already official: $4,500 self-only and $9,000 family.
📋 Sources: IRS: 2026 401(k) and IRA limits (IR-2025-111) · IFEBP: 2026 plan limits incl. §415(c) · 401(k) Specialist: 2027 projections (Milliman & Marsh) · IFEBP: IRS 2027 HSA limits
What's Changing in 2027
- Bigger 401(k) limit. The projected $1,000 increase means about $38 more per paycheck if you're paid every two weeks and want to max out.
- The ages 60–63 "super catch-up." If you turn 60, 61, 62 or 63 in 2027, you can contribute up to $37,250 total, more than anyone else on a regular 401(k).
- Roth catch-up rule for high earners. If your 2026 wages from your employer top $155,000 (projected), your 2027 catch-up contributions must go in as Roth, after tax.
Can't Max Out? Start Where You Are
Most people don't max out their 401(k), and that's fine. The first goal is to contribute at least enough to get your full employer match, because that's an instant return on your money. Then raise your contribution by 1% each year, ideally when you get a raise, so you never feel the difference in your paycheck.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the 401(k) limit for 2027?
The IRS has not announced it yet. Benefits firms Milliman and Marsh both project $25,500 for 2027, up from $24,500 in 2026. The IRS usually announces the new limits in early-to-mid November, and this page is updated the same day.
How much is the 401(k) catch-up contribution in 2027?
If you are 50 or older, you can add a catch-up contribution on top of the regular limit: $8,000 in 2026 and a projected $8,500 in 2027. If you turn 60, 61, 62 or 63 during the year, a larger catch-up applies: $11,250 in 2026 and a projected $11,750 in 2027.
How much do I need to save per paycheck to max out my 401(k)?
Divide the yearly limit by your number of paychecks. At the projected 2027 limit of $25,500, that's about $980.77 per paycheck if you're paid every two weeks, $1,062.50 if you're paid twice a month, or $2,125.00 a month. The calculator above does this for your age and pay schedule.
Do high earners have to make catch-up contributions as Roth?
Yes. Starting in 2026, if your wages from that employer were over $150,000 in the prior year, your catch-up contributions must go in as Roth (after-tax). For 2027 the wage threshold is projected at $155,000, based on your 2026 wages.
What is the IRA contribution limit for 2027?
The IRA limit was $7,500 in 2026, plus a $1,100 catch-up if you're 50 or older. The 2027 IRA limit will be announced with the 401(k) limits. It only rises in $500 steps, so it will be either $7,500 again or $8,000.