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2026 403(b) Contribution Calculator
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Single filer 2026 brackets. See all brackets →
Limits sourced from IRS.gov. Tax savings are estimates only and do not constitute financial or tax advice.
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Reference
2026 403(b) Limits by Age
Same employee deferral limits apply to 401(k), governmental 457(b), and the federal TSP.
| Age group | Employee limit | Catch-up | Your total | §415 total (incl. employer) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Under 50 | $24,500 | — | $24,500 | $72,000 |
| Age 50–59 and 64+ | $24,500 | +$8,000 | $32,500 | $80,000 |
| Age 60–63 (SECURE 2.0 super catch-up) | $24,500 | +$11,250 | $35,750 | $83,250 |
| 15-year service rule (if eligible) | $24,500 | +$3,000 | Up to $27,500 | See plan admin |
The 15-year catch-up is available to employees with 15+ years of service at the same qualifying organization, up to a lifetime maximum of $15,000. It applies before the age-50 catch-up. Full 2026 limits →
Who qualifies
403(b) Plan Eligibility
Public education
Teachers, administrators, and staff at public schools, colleges, and universities (K-12 and higher education).
Non-profit healthcare
Nurses, doctors, and staff at non-profit hospitals, health systems, and other 501(c)(3) healthcare organizations.
Churches & non-profits
Employees of churches and other 501(c)(3) non-profit organizations. Church plans have additional exemptions.
FAQ
Common Questions
What is the 403(b) contribution limit for 2026?
The employee elective deferral limit is $24,500 — identical to the 401(k) limit. Ages 50–59 and 64+ can add a $8,000 catch-up for $32,500 total. Ages 60–63 can use the SECURE 2.0 super catch-up of $11,250 for $35,750 total.
Can I contribute to both a 403(b) and a 457(b)?
Yes. If your employer offers both a 403(b) and a 457(b) plan, you can contribute the full elective deferral limit to each plan — potentially doubling your annual tax-advantaged savings to $49,000 (or more with catch-ups). This is one of the most powerful retirement savings opportunities available to public educators.
How does the 403(b) 15-year catch-up work?
Employees who have worked for the same qualifying organization for at least 15 years may contribute an extra $3,000 per year, up to a lifetime maximum of $15,000 total and subject to a reduced cap. This is plan-specific — check with your plan administrator to confirm eligibility and how it interacts with age-based catch-ups.
Is a 403(b) the same as a 401(k)?
They're very similar: both are employer-sponsored defined contribution plans with the same elective deferral limits, catch-up rules, and SECURE 2.0 super catch-up provisions. Key differences: 403(b) is limited to non-profits, schools, and churches; 401(k) is for for-profit employers. 403(b) can offer annuity contracts in addition to mutual funds. Some 403(b) plans are subject to fewer ERISA protections (especially church plans).