IRS increases 401(k) limit to $23K in 2024, IRA limit raised to $7K.
Contribution Limits for Retirement Plans Increased for 2024
The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) has recently announced an exciting update for retirement plan contributors. The contribution limits for popular retirement plans like 401(k) and Individual Retirement Account (IRA) have been raised by $500 for the upcoming year.
“The contribution limit for employees who participate in 401(k), 403(b), and most 457 plans, as well as the federal government’s Thrift Savings Plan, is increased to $23,000, up from $22,500,” the IRS said on Nov. 1. “The limit on annual contributions to an IRA increased to $7,000, up from $6,500.”
This boost in contribution limits provides an excellent opportunity for individuals to enhance their tax-free savings. Additionally, those aged 50 and above can take advantage of catch-up contributions, allowing them to make additional contributions to their retirement accounts.
For 401(k) accounts, contributions are deducted directly from an employee’s salary before taxes, enabling individuals to build a larger pre-tax retirement fund. The $500 increase in contribution not only helps grow the account tax-free but also results in a lower taxable income.
Similarly, IRA accounts offer the benefit of deducting contributions from the income tax return, as explained by the IRS:
“Taxpayers can deduct contributions to a traditional IRA if they meet certain conditions. If during the year, either the taxpayer or the taxpayer’s spouse was covered by a retirement plan at work, the deduction may be reduced, or phased out, until it is eliminated, depending on filing status and income,” said the IRS.
New Phase-Out Ranges for IRA Accounts
The IRS has also announced new phase-out ranges for IRA accounts in the upcoming year:
- For single taxpayers covered by a workplace retirement plan, the phase-out range has been raised to $77,000-$87,000, up from $73,000-$83,000—an increase of $4,000.
- For married couples filing jointly, if the spouse making the IRA contribution is covered by a workplace retirement plan, the phase-out range next year will be $123,000-$143,000, up from between $116,000 and $136,000—an increase of $7,000.
- For an IRA contributor who is not covered by a workplace retirement plan and is married to someone who is covered, the phase-out range is set to be between $230,000 and $240,000, up from a range of $218,000 and $228,000—an increase of $12,000.
- For a married individual filing a separate return who is covered by a workplace retirement plan, the phase-out range will remain unchanged between $0 and $10,000.
These phase-out ranges help manage the extent to which individuals can benefit from tax advantages such as deductions, exemptions, and credits.
Aside from 401(k) and IRA accounts, the IRS has also made changes to other retirement accounts. The contribution limit for Savings Incentive Match Plan for Employees of Small Employers (SIMPLE) accounts has been raised to $16,000 for 2024, with a catch-up contribution of $3,500.
Furthermore, the income limits for the Saver’s Credit, also known as the Retirement Savings Contributions Credit, have been adjusted:
- The limit for low and moderate-income married couples filing jointly has been raised from $73,000 to $76,500.
- For heads of households, the limit for 2024 will be $57,375, up from $54,750.
- The limit for singles and married individuals who file separately has been raised to $38,250 from $36,500.
Hardship Withdrawals and the Importance of Continued Investment
These increased contribution limits come at a time when more Americans are facing financial hardships and withdrawing money from their retirement accounts. According to Bank of America (BofA), the number of individuals making hardship withdrawals from their 401(k) accounts has risen significantly.
In the second quarter of this year, 15,950 individuals made a hardship withdrawal from their 401(k) account, marking a 12% increase from Q1 and a 36% increase from Q3, 2022.
While short-term expenses may take priority, it is crucial for individuals to continue investing in their long-term retirement savings. The $500 increase in contribution limits provides an opportunity to build a more secure financial future.
Let’s make the most of these increased contribution limits and ensure a comfortable retirement for ourselves!
How do the new phase-out ranges for workplace retirement plans provide more flexibility for individuals regarding their eligibility to deduct contributions to their IRA accounts?
By a workplace retirement plan, the phase-out range remains $0-$10,000.
These new phase-out ranges provide individuals with more flexibility in determining their eligibility to deduct contributions to their IRA accounts. It is important to note that non-deductible contributions can still be made to an IRA account regardless of income level. Overall, the increased contribution limits for retirement plans in 2024 present an opportunity for individuals to save more for their future and take advantage of potential tax benefits. As retirement planning becomes increasingly vital, it is essential for individuals to educate themselves about the various retirement plan options available to them. Consulting with a financial advisor or tax professional can help individuals make informed decisions and maximize the benefits of these increased contribution limits. By taking advantage of the new limits and exploring different retirement plan options, individuals can work towards a more secure and comfortable future.
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