U.S. Retirement Guide
What Is the Traditional IRA Contribution Limit for 2026?
The IRA contribution limit increases in 2026. Here's how much you can contribute to a Traditional IRA, how the age 50 catch-up contribution works, and what can reduce the amount you are allowed to contribute.
Updated for the 2026 tax year
Quick answer
In 2026, you can generally contribute up to $7,500 across your IRAs. If you are age 50 or older by the end of the year, a $1,100 catch-up contribution increases the limit to $8,600. Your contribution generally cannot exceed your eligible taxable compensation for the year.
2026 IRA contribution limits
The basic annual IRA contribution limit increases from $7,000 in 2025 to $7,500 in 2026. People age 50 or older can also make an additional catch-up contribution.
| Age at the end of the year | 2025 | 2026 |
|---|---|---|
| Under age 50 | $7,000 | $7,500 |
| Age 50 or older | $8,000 | $8,600 |
For 2026, the IRA catch-up contribution is $1,100. This brings the total limit to $8,600 for someone age 50 or older, subject to the other applicable contribution rules.
Your compensation can reduce your limit
The $7,500 or $8,600 annual limit is not always the amount you can actually contribute. If your eligible taxable compensation for the year is lower than the annual limit, your contribution is generally limited to that compensation.
Example
If you are under age 50 and have $5,000 of eligible compensation for 2026, your contribution limit is generally $5,000 rather than $7,500.
Traditional and Roth IRAs share the same limit
The annual contribution limit does not apply separately to each IRA. Contributions to all of your Traditional and Roth IRAs are combined when determining whether you have reached the annual limit.
Example
If you are under age 50 and contribute $4,500 to a Traditional IRA in 2026, you generally have up to $3,000 of the annual IRA limit remaining for a Roth IRA contribution, assuming you are eligible to make that contribution.
Contribution limits and tax deductions are different
The contribution limit determines how much you can put into your Traditional IRA. It does not automatically determine how much of that contribution you can deduct from your taxable income.
Your deduction may be limited based on your income, filing status, and whether you or your spouse are covered by a retirement plan at work. You may therefore be allowed to contribute to a Traditional IRA even when part or all of the contribution is not deductible.
Key takeaways
- The basic IRA contribution limit is $7,500 for 2026.
- For people age 50 or older, the catch-up contribution increases the total limit to $8,600.
- The limit is shared across your Traditional and Roth IRAs.
- Your eligible compensation may reduce the maximum amount you can contribute.
Estimate your Traditional IRA contribution
Use our calculator to estimate your maximum contribution, potential tax deduction, and projected Traditional IRA value.
Traditional IRA Calculator 2026
Estimate your contribution limit, potential deduction, and projected account growth through retirement.
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Sources
The contribution limits and rules in this guide are based on information published by the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) for the 2026 tax year.
Important information
This guide is for informational purposes only and does not constitute tax or financial advice. The rules that apply may vary depending on your situation. Consult official IRS publications or a qualified professional for guidance specific to your circumstances.