The SECURE 2.0 Act offers more ways to boost long-term financial security. Among the biggest updates: a higher age for required minimum distributions (RMDs) and broader eligibility for part-time workers to join 401(k) plans. But the real attention-getter for 2025 is the new “super catch-up” contribution available to employees in their early 60s.

Bigger Catch-Ups for Ages 60 to 63

Beginning in 2025, individuals who are 60 to 63 years old may contribute up to $11,250 in additional “catch-up” funds to their 401(k), 403(b), or governmental 457 plans—well above the standard $7,500 limit for those 50 and older. That means a participant in this age range can set aside as much as $34,750 in 2025 ($23,500 regular deferral + $11,250 catch-up).

Employers aren’t required to adopt this provision, so plan sponsors must opt in before workers can take advantage of it. To qualify, you must be 60, 61, 62, or 63 by December 31 and have already contributed the maximum annual deferral. Once you hit 64, you revert to the regular 50+ catch-up limit.

Participant Age (2025)	Annual Deferral Limit	Catch-Up Limit	Total Possible Contribution
50–59 or 64+	$23,500	$7,500	$31,000
60–63	$23,500	$11,250	$34,750

Background on Catch-Up Contributions

Catch-up provisions let individuals age 50 and older save beyond the standard annual limit, helping them make up for earlier gaps in savings or lower-earning years. These contributions can also lower taxable income in the year they’re made, depending on whether they go into a traditional or Roth account.

For 2024, workers could defer $23,000 plus a $7,500 catch-up—for a total of $30,500. The 2025 super catch-up builds on that framework, specifically targeting pre-retirement savers in their 60s.

Roth Requirement for High-Income Savers

Another SECURE 2.0 provision affects higher earners. Starting in 2026, anyone with social security wages above $145,000 in the prior year (adjusted for inflation) must make catch-up contributions on a Roth basis. In practice, this means paying taxes now instead of later—potentially beneficial if you expect higher income or tax rates in the future.

Deciding Whether to Use the Super Catch-Up

These expanded limits can meaningfully boost savings close to retirement, especially for those who began investing later in life. Still, the decision to contribute extra should fit within your overall financial plan.

Before making changes, review your employer’s plan rules to check eligibility and discuss with your advisors.