The IRS has finalized new regulations that could catch many retirement savers off guard. Starting in 2026, if you earn $145,000 or more in wages, your catch-up contributions to workplace retirement plans must be made as Roth contributions. That means instead of deferring taxes now, you’ll pay taxes upfront and enjoy tax-free withdrawals later. For high earners, this change isn’t optional—it’s mandatory, and ignoring it could trigger compliance issues. Understanding this rule now can help you avoid costly mistakes and keep your retirement strategy on track.
The Income Threshold That Changes Everything
The new IRS rule applies specifically to employees earning $145,000 or more in the prior year. If you fall into this category, every catch-up contribution you make at age 50 or older must be Roth.
This threshold will be indexed annually, meaning it could rise over time, but the principle remains the same. For those under the threshold, you can still choose between pre-tax and Roth contributions. Knowing where you stand relative to this income test is the first step to avoiding an audit trap.
How Employers Must Adjust Their Plans
Employers are now required to identify “high-paid participants” and ensure their catch-up contributions are designated as Roth. This means payroll systems, HR departments, and plan administrators must all update their processes. If your employer doesn’t make these changes correctly, you could end up with contributions misclassified, which may cause tax headaches later.
The IRS has provided guidance, but implementation will vary across companies. Staying proactive and confirming with HR that your contributions are coded correctly is essential.
The Catch-Up Contribution Limits You Need to Know
For 2026, the standard catch-up contribution limit for those age 50+ rises to $8,000. Additionally, workers aged 60–63 may qualify for “super catch-up” contributions of up to $11,250. These higher limits are designed to help older workers boost retirement savings quickly.
However, if you’re a high earner, every dollar of these catch-ups must be Roth contributions. That means you’ll need to plan for the immediate tax impact while still taking advantage of the long-term benefits.
Why Roth Contributions Could Be a Hidden Advantage
At first glance, mandatory Roth contributions may feel like a burden. After all, paying taxes now reduces your take-home pay. But Roth contributions offer powerful benefits: tax-free growth, tax-free withdrawals, and no required minimum distributions in retirement.
For high earners who expect to be in the same or higher tax bracket later, this rule could actually save money long-term. Reframing the change as an opportunity rather than a penalty can help you embrace the shift.
Steps You Can Take Right Now
Don’t wait until 2026 to prepare for this change. Here’s what you can do right now.
- Review your current retirement plan elections and confirm whether you’re making pre-tax or Roth contributions.
- Talk to your employer or plan administrator about how they plan to implement the new IRS rule.
- Consider adjusting your tax withholding or budgeting to account for the upfront tax hit.
- Consult a financial advisor to see how Roth contributions fit into your overall retirement strategy.
- Stay informed—IRS rules evolve, and being proactive is the best way to avoid surprises.
Turning Compliance Into Confidence
The new IRS rule on Roth contributions may feel like a trap, but it doesn’t have to be. By understanding the income threshold, employer responsibilities, and contribution limits, you can stay ahead of the curve. More importantly, you can use Roth contributions to build a retirement portfolio that’s resilient, tax-efficient, and audit-proof. Think of this change as a nudge to modernize your savings strategy rather than a penalty. With the right planning, compliance becomes confidence—and your retirement future looks brighter.
What do you think about the IRS making Roth contributions mandatory for high earners—smart move or unnecessary burden? Share your thoughts in the comments!
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Teri Monroe started her career in communications working for local government and nonprofits. Today, she is a freelance finance and lifestyle writer and small business owner. In her spare time, she loves golfing with her husband, taking her dog Milo on long walks, and playing pickleball with friends.
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