Max Contributions:
Topping Off Retirement, Education & Health Accounts
As the end of the year approaches, it’s a great time to check in on your contribution levels. Whether you’re building for the future or reducing your taxable income today, maximizing your contributions can give your money the momentum it needs to grow.
401(k)s and IRAs: Take Advantage of Your Limits
Retirement accounts are a cornerstone of long-term savings, and keeping up with annual contribution limits ensures you’re making the most of tax-advantaged opportunities.
2025 limits: For 401(k) / 403(b) plans, the employee elective deferral limit is $23,500. For those aged 50 and over, there is a catch-up contribution allowing additional funds.
2026 projected limits: These are expected to rise to about $24,500 for the employee elective deferral component. Catch-up contributions for those 50+ will increase too. Total contributions (including employer match) also see corresponding inflation-adjusted increases.
IRA / Roth IRA: The limit for 2026 is projected to increase from $7,000 in 2025 to $7,500, with the catch-up contribution (age 50+) also increasing.
HSAs: Triple-Tax Benefits
If you have a high-deductible health plan (HDHP), your Health Savings Account (HSA) is one of the most powerful tools available. Contributions are tax-deductible, growth is tax-free, and withdrawals for qualified health expenses are tax-free.
2025 limits: $4,300 for individuals; $8,550 for families; plus a $1,000 catch-up contribution if you’re 55 or older. Fidelity+2Ascensus+2
2026 limits: These will increase to $4,400 for individual coverage, $8,750 for family coverage. The $1,000 catch-up contribution for those 55+ remains in place. Minimum deductibles and maximum out-of-pocket thresholds for HDHPs are also increasing.
529 Plans: Boost Education Savings
Contributions to a 529 plan won’t reduce your federal taxes, but many states offer deductions or credits—and your earnings grow tax-free. It’s also a great time to consider front-loading contributions or gifting to a child or grandchild’s account before year-end.
End-of-Year & 2026 Deadlines to Remember
You generally have until tax filing deadline in April (e.g. mid-April 2026 for tax year 2025) to make many contributions (IRA, HSA, etc.).
For retirement plans like 401(k) or employer-sponsored plans, you may also need to make decisions or adjustments before the plan year ends (usually Dec 31, 2025) to take full advantage of the 2025 limits.
Make sure you know your plan’s rules for catch-up contributions and employer matching, and adjust contributions early so you’re not scrambling at year-end.