Many people dream of retirement as a “set it and forget it” phase of life, but the reality is, staying on top of changes in the law can make a significant impact on how much you save and when you can access your money. The SECURE 2.0 Act is a perfect example of why keeping your retirement plan up to date matters.
This law has updated contribution limits and shifted the required minimum distribution (RMD) age. That means not only can you potentially put more money away each year, but you also get more time before you’re required to start taking withdrawals from your pre-tax accounts. Both of these changes can have a major impact on your long-term strategy.
Bigger Contribution Limits in 2025
Let’s start with contributions. For 2025, the standard 401(k), 403(b), and 457(b) limit has been increased to $23,500, up from $23,000 in 2024.
For folks aged 50 and older, the traditional catch-up contribution of $7,500 hasn’t changed. That means you can put away a total of $31,000 if you’re over 50.
But here’s something new and exciting: SECURE 2.0 introduced a “super catch-up” for people aged 60–63. This allows you to contribute $11,250 on top of your standard limit, bringing the total to $34,750.
This is especially helpful for anyone who may have started saving later in life or who wants to make up for earlier shortfalls. Keep in mind, though, that the super catch-up is only available in employer plans that have opted into this enhanced feature.
Catch-Up Contributions for Higher Earners
If you earn more than $145,000, there’s a new wrinkle: any catch-up contributions you make must now be Roth contributions, meaning they’re after-tax dollars. This is something to plan for if you’re in that income bracket and want to maximize your retirement savings efficiently.
RMD Changes – More Time to Convert to Roth
One of the biggest changes in SECURE 2.0 is the RMD age bump. Previously, you had to start taking withdrawals at 72. Now, the age has increased to 73, and it will rise again to 75 in 2033.
Here’s an example: if you turn 73 in 2024, your first RMD is due by April 1, 2025, and your second RMD is due by December 31, 2025.
Why does this matter? The extra 1–3 years before RMDs begin gives you a bigger window for Roth conversions. Having more time allows you to:
1. Spread conversions over multiple years, avoiding a jump into higher tax brackets.
2. Intentionally fill lower tax brackets before pre-tax distributions start, potentially saving thousands in taxes over time.
IRA Contribution Limits Remain Steady
Not everything has changed. The annual contribution limit for traditional and Roth IRAs is still $7,000 for 2025, with an extra $1,000 catch-up for those 50 and older.
Conclusion
SECURE 2.0 gives retirees and pre-retirees more flexibility and power over their retirement savings. Whether it’s the super catch-up, Roth contribution requirements, or the delayed RMD age, understanding these changes can help you save more efficiently, manage your tax bracket, and ultimately make your retirement years more secure.
If you're unsure where to start or want to learn how SECURE 2.0 may affect your finances, don’t hesitate to connect with your financial advisor today.
Retirement Planning in 2025 – How the SECURE 2.0 May Benefit Your Retirement Strategy
October 8, 2025
Clay Reynolds
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