The  SECURE 2.0 Act  continues to impact the retirement landscape, and one of its most impactful provisions — the Roth catch-up contribution requirement for higher earners — is effective in 2026. With final regulations issued in mid-September, plan sponsors now have clarity on how to prepare for implementation.  Background: Understanding catch-up contributions and Roth  Catch-up contributions  allow participants aged 50 and older to contribute additional amounts to their retirement plans beyond the standard IRS limits. These contributions help older workers boost their retirement savings as they approach retirement age.  A  Roth contribution  is made with after-tax dollars, meaning the participant pays taxes upfront, but qualified withdrawals are tax-free. Catch-up contributions could traditionally be made on a pre-tax or Roth basis.  Under the  SECURE 2.0 Act , participants earning more than  $145,000 in FICA wages  in the pri...

As more employers offer a Roth 401(k) , it’s important that you know the main difference between pre-tax and Roth contributions. In this post, we’ll explain what each contribution is and how to decide the best option. We’ve even included the most recent SECURE 2.0 Act update, so you can stay up-to-date on Roth deferrals. What is the difference between pre-tax and Roth contributions? It can be tricky to choose between a pre-tax contribution vs. Roth 401(k). Roth and pre-tax contributions are two different ways to save for retirement in an employer-sponsored retirement account (401(k), 403(b), etc.). Each has its own tax implications and considerations. Pre-tax contributions  Pre-tax contributions allow individuals to contribute to retirement savings before taxes are taken out of their paycheck. Since taxes are deferred up front, the contributions and earnings in the account are taxed as ordinary income when the individual withdraws them during retirement. Roth contributions On the o...