Key 2026 updates
As 2025 draws to a close, we thought it’d be a good time to review changes coming for 2026. Below are updates for:
retirement acct contribution limits
federal tax brackets
deductions and other tax related updates
HSA and FSA info
social security COLA adjustment
Here’s a summary of the 2026 contribution limits for tax-advantaged retirement accounts:
The annual contribution limit for most 401(k), 403(b), 457, and federal Thrift Savings Plans will rise to $24,500 (up from $23,500).
Workers aged 50 and above can contribute an additional $8,000, for a total of $32,500.
The “super catch-up” for ages 60-63 stays at $11,250 under SECURE 2.0 rules.
IRA contribution limits are increasing to $7,500, with catch-up contributions (for individuals aged 50 and above) now at $1,100.
Why this matters:
These increases may offer you more flexibility to put away tax-advantaged dollars, a win if you're trying to build momentum toward your retirement goals.
For those 50 and older, the expanded catch-up contributions can help accelerate savings, especially if you're getting a later start or want to make the most of your peak earning years.
And because contributions to these accounts may reduce taxable income or grow tax-free, taking advantage of the new limits may support better long-term tax efficiency, more compounding potential, and added financial flexibility down the road.
What you might consider doing now:
Review your current retirement savings rate and consider increasing it for 2026.
Check IRA eligibility based on income and determine your 2026 contribution plan.
If you’re 50 or older, decide whether to take advantage of catch-up contributions.
If you're a higher earner, be aware that Roth catch-up rules are coming (with full regulatory effect for many plans set to take effect in 2027). For now, you can continue making pre-tax or Roth catch-up contributions as usual.
If you’re self-employed, consider whether a SEP IRA or solo 401(k) update is in order.
10% for income up to $12,400 ($24,800 for married couples filing jointly)
12% for income over $12,400 ($24,800 for married couples filing jointly)
22% for income over $50,400 ($100,800 for married couples filing jointly)
24% for income over $105,700 ($211,400 for married couples filing jointly)
32% for income over $201,775 ($403,550 for married couples filing jointly)
35% for income over $256,225 ($512,450 for married couples filing jointly)
37% for income over $640,600 ($768,700 for married couples filing jointly)
Additional 2026 tax-related figures to keep in mind:
The standard deduction will increase to $16,100 for single filers and $32,200 for married couples filing jointly.
The maximum earned income tax credit will increase to $8,231 for qualifying taxpayers with three or more children.
The federal estate tax limit will increase to $15 million per person, up from nearly $14 million in 2025.
HSA limits have increased slightly:
Self-only coverage: $4,400 (up from $4,300)
Family coverage: $8,750 (up from $8,550)
Catch-up contribution (age 55+): $1,000 (unchanged)
Remember, to qualify for HSA contributions, you’ll need to be enrolled in a high-deductible health plan, which in 2026 means:
Minimum deductible: $1,700 (self-only) or $3,400 (family)
Maximum out-of-pocket: $8,500 (self-only) or $17,000 (family)
FSA limits have also increased:
Health FSA contribution limit: $3,300 (up from $3,200)
Carryover limit: $660 (up from $640)
Social Security and Supplemental Security Income (SSI) benefits will increase by 2.8% beginning in January 2026. This adjustment is designed to help benefits keep pace with inflation and will be reflected automatically in eligible payments.