Retirement Plan Contribution
and Benefit Limits

The effective date for 2010 limits is January 1, 2010

MAXIMUM DOLLAR LIMITS

This chart lists the maximum amounts individuals are permitted to contribute to their retirement plans each year. To learn more, please see the Fact Sheets section of our web site.

 
2010
2009
2008
2007

Annual employee contribution limit for 401(k), 403(b), or 457 savings plans
$16,500
$16,500
$15,500
$15,500
Annual catch-up contribution limit for 401(k), 403(b) or 457 savings plans if employee is age 50 or over
$5,500
$5,500
$5,000
$5,000

Maximum annual benefit payable by a defined benefit pension plan
$195,000
$195,000
$185,000
$180,000
Annual limit for combined employer - employee contributions to a defined contribution plan
$49,000
$49,000
$46,000
$45,000
Annual contribution limit to an Individual Retirement Account for individuals
$5,000
$5,000
$5,000
$4,000
Annual catch-up contribution limit for Individual Retirement Accounts for individuals age 50 or over
$1,000
$1,000
$1,000
$1,000
Annual employee contribution for SIMPLE plans
$11,500
$11,500
$10,500
$10,500
Annual catch-up employee contribution for SIMPLE plans if employee is age 50 and over
$2,500
$2,500
$2,500
$2,500

Maximum monthly amount insured by the Pension Benefit Guaranty Corporation for people retiring at age 65. Find out guarantee limits at other ages.  
$4,500
$4,500
$4,312.50
$4,125
Maximum amount of wages taxable by Social Security
$106,800
$106,800
$102,000
$97,500

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webmaster[at]pensionrights.org.