Retirement Plan Contribution Limits Increase in 2020

In November 2019, the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) announced the cost of living adjustments for 2020 for most retirement savings plans. However, IRA contribution limits will stay the same. If you plan to make the maximum contributions to your retirement plan in 2020, here’s what you need to know:

• The limit on annual employee contributions to 401(k)s, 403(b)s, most 457 plans, and the Federal government’s Thrift Savings Plan will rise to $19,500 in 2020, up from $19,000 in 2019.
• The retirement plan ‘catch-up’ provision for savers age 50+ will be $6500 for 2020. Super-savers who want to max their retirement savings contributions can save $33,000 into these tax-advantaged accounts in 2020.
• The limitation regarding SIMPLE retirement accounts for 2020 increases to $13,500 (up to $500 from 2019).
• You can save even more if your employer allows after-tax contributions. The defined contribution plan limit moves up to $57,000 in 2020.

Traditional IRA

Taxpayers can deduct contributions into a traditional IRA if they meet certain conditions. The deduction may reduce if during the year either the taxpayer or their spouse were covered by a workplace retirement plan. The deduction may also phase out, until it is eliminated, depending on filing status and income. (If neither the taxpayer nor spouse are covered by a workplace retirement plan, the phase-outs don’t apply.) Here are the phase-out income ranges for 2020, up slightly from 2019:

• Single taxpayers covered by a workplace retirement plan, the phase-out income range is $65,000 to $75,000, up from $64,000 to $74,000.
• Married couples filing jointly, where the spouse making the IRA contribution is covered by a workplace retirement plan, the phase-out range is $104,000 to $124,000, up from $103,000 to $123,000.
• An IRA contributor who is not covered by a workplace retirement plan and is married to someone who is covered. The deduction is phased out if the couple’s income is between $196,000 and $206,000, up from $193,000 and $203,000.
• In addition, a married individual filing a separate return who is covered by a workplace retirement plan, the phase-out range is not subject to an annual cost-of-living adjustment and remains $0 to $10,000.

Other income phase-outs to be aware of:

The income phase-out for Roth IRAs is $124,000 to $139,000 for singles and heads of household. For married couples filing jointly, the income phase-out range is $196,000 to $206,000. In addition, the phase-out range for a married individual filing a separate return who makes contributions to a Roth IRA is not subject to an annual cost-of-living adjustment and remains $0 to $10,000.

The income limit for the Saver’s Credit (also known as the Retirement Savings Contributions Credit) for low- and moderate-income workers is $65,000 for married couples filing jointly, $48,750 for heads of household, and $32,500 for singles and married individuals filing separately.

For instance, you’re not able to save the maximum into your retirement accounts, now is a great time to increase your contributions anyway. If you have any questions regarding contribution limits or setting up IRAs, contact our office.

Additional Disclosure: This article is designed to provide general information on the subjects covered. Pursuant to IRS Circular 230, it is not intended to provide specific legal or tax advice. It cannot be used to avoid penalties or to promote, market, or recommend any tax plan or arrangement. You are encouraged to consult your personal tax advisor or attorney.

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Therefore as a retirement income specialist and 38-year veteran of the financial services industry, August H. Velten understands what his clients need in order to enjoy a comfortable retirement. At August H Velten & Associates, we know that it is your retirement, and you should have control over it. In addition, we offer our experience and knowledge to help you design a custom strategy for financial independence. Contact us today to schedule an introductory meeting!