2026 IRA Contribution Limits
The IRS has increased IRA contribution limits for 2026, giving savers more room to build their retirement nest egg.
The base limit rises to $7,500 (up $500 from 2025), while those 50 and older can now contribute up to $8,600 thanks to an increased catch-up contribution.
These limits apply to both Traditional and Roth IRAs combined—you can split contributions between them, but the total can't exceed the annual limit.
2026 IRA Limits
- Under 50: $7,500 (up from $7,000)
- 50 and over: $8,600 ($7,500 + $1,100 catch-up)
Source: IRS.gov
Limit History
| Year | Under 50 | 50+ |
|---|---|---|
| 2026 | $7,500 | $8,600 |
| 2025 | $7,000 | $8,000 |
| 2024 | $7,000 | $8,000 |
| 2023 | $6,500 | $7,500 |
What's New in 2026
The $500 base limit increase is the first since 2024. More notably, the catch-up contribution for those 50+ jumped from $1,000 to $1,100—the first increase since SECURE 2.0 tied it to inflation.
This means savers 50 and older can now put away $600 more per year than in 2025.
Traditional vs. Roth: Quick Comparison
Traditional IRA
- • Contributions may be tax-deductible
- • Pay taxes when you withdraw
- • Required distributions at 73
Roth IRA
- • No tax deduction now
- • Tax-free withdrawals in retirement
- • No required distributions
2026 Roth IRA Income Limits
Roth IRA contributions phase out at higher incomes:
- Single: Full contribution under $153K, phases out $153K-$168K
- Married filing jointly: Full contribution under $242K, phases out $242K-$252K
Over the limit? You may still be able to use a backdoor Roth strategy—consult a tax professional.
Key Dates
- January 1, 2026: You can start making 2026 contributions
- April 15, 2027: Deadline to contribute for the 2026 tax year
Contributing early gives your money more time to grow tax-advantaged.