In 2025, the maximum amount you can contribute to your 401(k) as an employee is:
- $23,500 if you are under age 50.
- If you are age 50 to 59 or 64 and older, you can contribute an additional catch-up amount of $7,500, making the total $31,000.
- If you are between ages 60 and 63, you are eligible for a higher catch-up contribution of $11,250, making the total $34,750, if your plan allows it.
Employers can also contribute to your 401(k) plan, but employer contributions do not count toward your individual employee contribution limit. The combined total of employee and employer contributions in 2025 cannot exceed $70,000 for those under 50, $77,500 for those 50 to 59 or 64 and older, and $81,250 for those 60 to 63.
Note that total contributions cannot exceed your annual compensation at the company sponsoring your plan. Also, if you have both a traditional and Roth 401(k), the $23,500 employee contribution limit applies across both accounts combined.
Be sure to check with your plan sponsor for any specific catch-up contributions allowed and how post-tax contributions may affect contribution limits.
