Why Surgeons Are Maxing This Overlooked 401(k) Feature Before the End of the Year

"The super catch-up limit for 2026 is $11,250, up from $8,000, bringing the total annual contribution ceiling to $35,750. Over the full four-year window, a surgeon maxing the super catch-up contributes $45,000 in catch-up contributions alone, compared to $30,000 under the regular catch-up."

"Starting January 1, 2026, any employee aged 50 or older who earned more than $150,000 in W-2 wages from the same employer in the prior year must make all catch-up contributions on a Roth (after-tax) basis."

"If no action is taken, the default is the standard catch-up, and the window closes permanently at 64. Most physicians in this age bracket have never encountered the provision, and plan administrators often do not flag it automatically."

Surgeons aged 60 to 63 can take advantage of a super catch-up contribution, allowing them to contribute up to $35,750 annually to their 401(k) by 2026. This provision, part of the SECURE 2.0 Act, offers a $15,000 advantage over the standard catch-up contributions. However, many in this age group are unaware of this opportunity, and if not utilized, they will default to the standard catch-up. Additionally, starting in 2026, catch-up contributions for high earners must be made on a Roth basis, impacting tax strategies for retirement.

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