2021 Federal Retirement Plan Cost of Living Adjustments

The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) has published its 2021 cost-of-living updates affecting retirement plans. As you prepare for the new year, let us put our IRS expertise to work to help you achieve your 2021 goals. We have convenient locations in Eagan, MN and Cannon Falls, MN.

SOME RETIREMENT PLAN LIMITS ARE INCREASING – The following table provides the cost-of-living adjustments to annual contribution limits for retirement plans:

Retirement Plan Type / IRC Section

Limit Description

2020

2021

415(c)maximum annual contribution to defined contribution plan$57,000 + catch -up$58,000 + catch-up
401(a)17, 404(l), 408(k)(3)(C), and 408(k)(6)(D)(ii)maximum annual compensation considered for calculation of benefits or contributions to retirement plans$285,000$290,000
409(o)(1)(C)(ii)maximum account balance in employee stock ownership plan, subject to a 5-year distribution schedule$1,150,000$1,165,000
408(k)(2)(C)minimum compensation for simplified employee pensions (SEPs)$600$650
Social Security Taxwage base subject to social security tax$137,700142,800
MANY RETIREMENT PLAN LIMITS WILL REMAIN UNCHANGED IN 2021:

Retirement Plan Type /  IRC Section

Limit Description

Amount

401(k), 403(b), most 457 plans, and Thrift Savings Planmaximum annual elective contribution considered for calculation of benefits or contributions to retirement plans$19,500
401(k), 403(b), most 457 plans, and Thrift Savings Planmaximum annual catch-up contribution limit for participating employees who are age 50 and older$6,500
415(b)(1)(A)maximum annual benefit under defined benefit retirement plans$230,000
409(o)(1)(C)(ii)Amount set for calculating the lengthening of the 5-year distribution period in an employee stock ownership plan$230,000
408(p)(2)(E)maximum salary deferral contribution limit for SIMPLE retirement accounts$13,500
664(g)(7)limit on the qualified gratuitous transfer of employer securities to an employee stock ownership plan$50,000
414(q)(1)(B)compensation amount at which an employee is considered a “highly compensated employee”$130,000
416(i)(1)(A)(i)compensation amount at which an employee is considered a “key” employee$185,000
Individual Retirement Account (IRA)maximum annual contribution$6,000
Individual Retirement Account (IRA)additional annual catch-up contribution cap for taxpayers who are age 50 and older$1,000

REACH OUT TO OUR IRS EXPERTS – At Kennedy & Ruhsam, we are well-versed in the complexities of IRS regulations and can help you understand tax implications to your income, investments, and estate planning. We also offer extensive business tax services, including: state and federal income tax, estate tax, gift tax, employment tax, and sales tax return preparation; tax audit representation; representation against tax debt collections actions, including the threat of tax liens and levies; services for non-filers of individual and business tax returns; and comprehensive, resourceful estate planning. Let us guide you with expert, practical, and efficient advice. Contact us at 651-262-2080 or clerk@mpkennedylaw.com for more information on how we can help you.