What is the 401k contribution limit in Minnesota for 2026?
The IRS sets the employee 401k deferral limit at $24,500 for 2026, with an $8,000 catch-up for participants age 50 and older ($32,500 total).
Minnesota workers can defer up to $24,500 to a 401k in 2026 ($32,500 with the $8,000 catch-up at age 50+). Traditional 401k deferrals typically reduce Minnesota taxable income as well as federal, which matters at marginal rates up to about 9.85%. Typical employer matches run 3–6%. Roth 401k may be available for after-tax federally tax-free qualified growth.
401(k) and IRA projections update as you type — educational only.
Minnesota: traditional deferrals generally reduce MN taxable income — calculator is federal-focused. Not financial or tax advice.
IRS cap $24,500/yr
Simplified model: 100% match up to this % of salary. Actual employer formulas vary (e.g. 50% up to 6%, tiered match, etc.)
Your contributions grow as your salary grows.
Projected balance
$1,472,304
The 4% rule is a general guideline, not a guarantee. This is not financial advice.
Balance breakdown (stacked)
| Type | 2026 Limit | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Employee contribution | $24,500 | IRS |
| Catch-up (age 50+) | +$8,000 | Total $32,500 |
| Catch-up (age 60–63, if eligible) | +$11,250 | Federal |
| Total with employer match | Up to $72,000 | Combined |
Traditional elective deferrals usually lower Minnesota taxable wages, saving state tax at graduated rates with a top bracket around 9.85% for high earners, plus federal savings. Distributions from traditional accounts are generally taxed when received.
| Monthly Contribution | Years | 7% Return | Est. Balance |
|---|---|---|---|
| $500 | 20 | 7% | ~$262,000 |
| $1,000 | 20 | 7% | ~$524,000 |
| $2,042 ($24,500/yr) | 20 | 7% | ~$1,071,000 |
| $2,042 ($24,500/yr) | 30 | 7% | ~$2,467,000 |
High Minnesota marginal rates strengthen the case for traditional deferrals to reduce current tax. Roth 401k can still help if you expect lower retirement rates or want tax-free qualified withdrawals. Capture any 3–6% match first.
The IRS sets the employee 401k deferral limit at $24,500 for 2026, with an $8,000 catch-up for participants age 50 and older ($32,500 total).
Yes — Minnesota generally conforms so traditional 401k elective deferrals reduce Minnesota taxable income, similar to federal. Minnesota’s top marginal income tax rate reaches about 9.85% for high earners.
Healthcare, retail, and manufacturing employers in Minnesota often match about 3% to 6% of pay. Combined employee-employer contributions cap at $72,000 in 2026 before catch-ups.
Traditional deferrals save federal and Minnesota tax now (marginal rates up to about 9.85%). Roth 401k uses after-tax federal dollars for potential federally tax-free qualified withdrawals.
Employee deferrals plus employer contributions generally cannot exceed $72,000 in 2026, plus allowed catch-up amounts for eligible ages.
Many Minnesota employers offer Roth 401k. Review your plan’s investment menu and auto-escalation settings.
Educational estimates only. Not financial or tax advice.