What is the 401k contribution limit in Ohio for 2026?
The IRS employee deferral limit is $24,500 in 2026, plus $8,000 catch-up for those age 50+ ($32,500 total). Ohio follows federal retirement plan limits.
Ohio 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 Ohio taxable income as well as federal, saving at Ohio's flat 2.75% rate for 2026. Typical employer matches run 3–6%. Roth 401k may be offered for after-tax federally tax-free qualified growth.
401(k) and IRA projections update as you type — educational only.
Ohio: traditional deferrals generally reduce OH 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 |
Elective traditional 401k contributions usually lower Ohio taxable wages, reducing state tax at Ohio's flat 2.75% rate for 2026. Traditional distributions are generally taxed when taken. Roth treatment may differ — confirm with a tax advisor.
| 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 |
Traditional 401k saves Ohio's 2.75% state tax plus federal tax on deferrals. Roth 401k trades that for federally tax-free qualified withdrawals. Secure any 3–6% employer match first.
The IRS employee deferral limit is $24,500 in 2026, plus $8,000 catch-up for those age 50+ ($32,500 total). Ohio follows federal retirement plan limits.
Yes — Ohio generally conforms so traditional 401k elective deferrals reduce Ohio taxable income, similar to federal. For 2026, Ohio taxes income above $26,050 at a flat 2.75%.
Many Ohio employers match about 3% to 6% of salary when you defer enough. Combined contributions cap at $72,000 in 2026 before catch-ups.
Traditional deferrals save federal and Ohio tax now (Ohio's flat 2.75% rate for 2026). 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.
Many employers offer Roth 401k. Check your plan for auto-enrollment and vesting schedules.
Educational estimates only. Not financial or tax advice.