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New 2026 Savings Limits = Big Wins for University Employees

  • Writer: Heather Asteriou
    Heather Asteriou
  • Nov 18
  • 2 min read

IRS 2026 retirement contribution limits for 403(b) and 457(b) plans with breakdown by age group

The IRS just announced its contribution limits for 2026, and there’s exciting news for university staff with 403(b) and 457(b) retirement plans: you can now save more than ever before.

At Provizr, we know that retirement planning can feel like alphabet soup 403(b), 457(b), SECURE 2.0 but we’re here to translate it into real opportunities. Let’s break it down and show you what this means for your financial future.


What’s Changing in 2026The IRS is increasing the contribution limits for workplace retirement plans:

  • 403(b) and 457(b) employee contribution limit: $24,500 (up from $23,500 in 2025)

  • Catch up contribution (age 50 plus): $8,000

  • SECURE 2.0 Special Catch up (ages 60 to 63, 403(b) only): $11,250


So how does this add up for university employees who often have access to both a 403(b) and a 457(b)? Here’s what you could potentially contribute in 2026:


Savings Scenarios for 2026

  • Under 50 years old: $24,500 in a 403(b) plus $24,500 in a 457(b) = $49,000 total

  • Age 50 plus: $32,500 in each = $65,000 total

  • Ages 60 to 63 with special catch up: $35,750 in a 403(b) plus $32,500 in a 457(b) = $68,250 total


Why This Matters

Only 14 percent of people maxed out their workplace plans in 2024, according to Vanguard. That’s a lot of missed opportunity. These new limits give you even more reason to take control of your savings and if you’re not sure how, that’s where we come in.


How Provizr Can HelpWe specialize in helping university employees like you make the most of your TIAA and Fidelity accounts without transferring a dime. We’ll review your portfolio, check if your savings align with your goals, and help you determine how much you should be contributing.All this is part of our free Provizr Blueprint process no catch, no pressure. Ready to Maximize 2026? Schedule a free review with Provizr!

 

 
 

Provizr, LLC is a registered investment adviser in the State of Michigan and separate entity from Fidelity & TIAA. The advisers may not transact business in states where it is not appropriately registered, excluded or exempted from registration. Information presented is for educational purposes only and does not intend to make an offer or solicitation for the sale or purchase of any securities or investment advisory services. Investments involve risk and are not guaranteed. Be sure to consult with a qualified financial adviser and/or tax professional before implementing any strategy discussed herein.  The content is developed from sources believed to be providing accurate information. The information in this material is not intended as tax or legal advice. Please consult legal or tax professionals for specific information regarding your individual situation. Some of this material was developed and produced by FMG Suite to provide information on a topic that may be of interest. FMG Suite is not affiliated with the named representative, broker - dealer, state - or SEC - registered investment advisory firm. The opinions expressed and material provided are for general information, and should not be considered a solicitation for the purchase or sale of any security.

 

Provizr free downloadable guides are designed with University employees in mind.  These free guides will help you better understand your university retirement TIAA and Fidelity 403b accounts, and how to set up your investment portfolios to help reach your retirement goals.  Our guides are designed to help  everyone from university employees who want questions answered about their Fidelity or TIAA retirement account investment portfolios, to those university employees who want to try a do it yourself system of setting up their own retirement investment portfolios.  Our newest guide, Investing 101 for University Employees, was developed specifically to help out University of Michigan employees with their TIAA and Fidelity 403b retirement investment accounts.  If you have any questions feel free to reach out to us in the contact section, or stop by - We are local to Ann Arbor, Michigan but can help University of Michigan Employees anywhere across the country! 

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