Senior Tax Strategist – Abby Donnellan CPA
The SECURE 2.0 Act of 2022, signed into law on 12/29/2022, builds on the prior SECURE Act of 2019 and focuses on helping Americans save for retirement. Below are some of its key provisions:
Catch-Up Contributions
In 2023, the catch-up contribution limit for those 50 and older is $7,500 (or $3,500 for SIMPLE plans). Starting in 2025, those ages 60-63 will have an increased catch-up limit of at least $10,000 ($5,000 for SIMPLE), with the exact amount to be announced later.
Roth Contributions
In 2024, individuals making over $145,000 the previous year will have to make catch-up contributions to their 401(k) with post-tax dollars (aka Roth).
Additionally, beginning in 2023, employers (any size) are permitted to match contributions in Roth dollars and can create Roth accounts for SIMPLE and SEP IRAs.
RMDs (Required Minimum Distributions)
Those born 1951-1959 do not have to pull from their retirement accounts until they are age 73 (compared to 72 in prior years). Additionally, for those born in 1960 or later, the age is increased to 75.
Penalties Reduced
Penalties for not taking RMDs were reduced from 50% to 25%. If an individual forgets to take their RMD and subsequently takes it within a reasonable timeframe, the penalty may be reduced to 10%.
Early withdrawal penalties on some funds removed from retirement accounts prior to 59 ½ were also reduced or eliminated for the following:
Starting in 2023
- Individuals in a federally declared disaster area
- Those that are terminally ill
Starting in 2024
- Certain financial emergencies
- Victims of domestic abuse
Starting in 2026
- Certain long-term care insurance premiums
Excess 529 rollovers to Roth IRA
Beginning in 2024, unused 529 plan assets can be moved to a Roth IRA for the 529 plan beneficiary, up to a $35,000 lifetime limit. The plan must have been in place for 15 years, and only funds in the account for 5 years can be moved. The converted funds are also subject to the annual Roth contributions limits (maximum $6,500 in 2023).
Other
In 2023, those over 70.5 can make a one-time QCD (Qualified Charitable Distribution) of up to $50,000 to a Charitable Gift Annuity, Charitable Remainder Unitrust (CRUT) or Charitable Remainder Annuity Trust (CRAT).
In 2024, employers are allowed to make additional employer contributions to SIMPLE plans. In addition, employee elective deferral limits for small companies (less than 26 employees) will be increased by 10%. An employer with 26-100 employees will be permitted to have a higher deferral limit for employees, but only if the employer provides either a 4% matching contribution or 3% employer contribution.
In 2025, retirement plans must be opened to part-time employees who work more than 500 hours for 2 consecutive years.
The SECURE 2.0 Act of 2022 represents a significant advancement in supporting retirement savings for Americans. By increasing catch-up contribution limits for older individuals and expanding opportunities for Roth contributions, the Act encourages individuals to save more effectively for their future. Adjusting the required minimum distribution age requirements gives retirees greater flexibility in managing their retirement accounts. Furthermore, the Act reduces penalties for missed distributions and early withdrawals in certain situations while also introducing provisions to facilitate charitable giving and enhance college savings options. With its comprehensive approach to improving retirement security, the SECURE 2.0 Act of 2022 demonstrates the government’s commitment to empowering individuals and ensuring a stronger financial future for all.
If you’d like to learn more, you can contact me at adonnellan@monetagroup.com
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