2018 Retirement Plan Contribution Limits (401k, 457 & More)
The information below summarizes the retirement plan contribution limits for 2018.
| Plan | Normal Limit | "Age 50" Catch-up Limit | "Pre-Retirement" Catch-up Limit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 457 | $18,500 | $6,000 | $18,500 |
| 401(a) | $55,000 | N/A | N/A |
| 401(k) | $18,500 | $6,000 | N/A |
| 403(b) | $18,500 | $6,000 | $15,000 lifetime cap |
| IRA | $5,500 | $1,000 | N/A |
N/A = Not applicable
View 2017 contribution limits.
More details on the retirement plan limits are available from the IRS.
457 Plans
The normal contribution limit for elective deferrals to a 457 deferred compensation plan is increased from $18,000 to $18,500 in 2018. Employees age 50 or older may contribute up to an additional $6,000 for a total of $24,500. Employees taking advantage of the special pre-retirement catch-up may be eligible to contribute up to double the normal limit, for a total of $37,000.
401(a) Plans
The total contribution limit for 401(a) defined contribution plans under section 415(c)(1)(A) increased from $54,000 to $55,000 for 2018. This includes both employer and employee contributions.
401(k) Plans
The annual elective deferral limit for 401(k) plan employee contributions increased from $18,000 to $18,500 in 2018. Employees age 50 or older may contribute up to an additional $6,000 for a total of $24,500.
The total contribution limit for both employee and employer contributions to 401(k) defined contribution plans under section 415(c)(1)(A) increased from $54,000 to $55,000 ($61,000 if age 50 or older).
403(b)
The annual elective deferral limit for 403(b) plan employee contributions increased from $18,000 to $18,500 in 2018. Employees age 50 or older may contribute up to an additional $6,000 for a total of $24,500.
The total contribution limit for both employee and employer contributions to 403(b) plans under section 415(c)(1)(A) increased from $54,000 to $55,000 ($61,000 if age 50 or older).
IRAs
The contribution limit for Traditional and Roth IRAs remains $5,500 in 2018. Employees age 50 or older are eligible to contribute an additional $1,000, for a total of $6,500.