New IRS 401(k) Limits for 2019*
- The elective deferral limit for 401(k), 403(b) and 457(b) plans increases to $19,000 in 2019 ($18,500 in 2018).
- The limitation on catch up contributions for employees age 50 and over remains at $6,000 in 2019.
- The maximum “annual addition” limit for a defined contribution plan increases to $56,000 in 2019 ($55,000 in 2018).
- The annual dollar limit on compensation that can be taken into account increases to $280,000 in 2019 ($275,000 in 2018).
- Compensation for determining highly compensated employee (“HCE”) status increases to $125,000.
*Source https://www.irs.gov/pub/irs-drop/n-18-83.pdf
For employees wishing to max out their contributions for the year in 2019, below are the necessary contribution amounts:
| Pay frequency | Weekly | Bi-Weekly | Semi-Monthly | Monthly |
| # of Pay Periods | 52 | 26 | 24 | 12 |
| Under 50 Years Old | $ 365.38 | $ 730.77 | $ 791.67 | $ 1,583.33 |
| Over 50 Years Old | $ 480.77 | $ 961.54 | $ 1,041.67 | $ 2,083.33 |
