With only a few months left in 2026, there is one financial move that deserves your full attention right now: maxing out your tax advantaged accounts before December 31.
What the 2026 Contribution Limits Look Like
For 2026: 401(k) and 403(b): Up to 3,500 (1,000 if 50 or older). IRA: ,000 (,000 if 50 or older). HSA: ,300 individual or ,550 family coverage.
Three Ways to Hit Your Limits Before Year End
1. Set up automatic recurring transfers. Log into your 401(k) portal and increase your contribution percentage. Set up automatic transfers to your IRA.
2. Earmark part of any year end bonus. Decide in advance to direct a portion of any extra income toward your retirement accounts. Having a plan before the money arrives is the key to not spending it.
3. Cut one expense and redirect the savings. Find one category you can trim by 10% and redirect it to your IRA or HSA before the year ends.
Why This Matters More Than You Think
Every dollar in a traditional 401(k) or IRA reduces your taxable income for 2026. If you are in the 22% tax bracket, a ,000 contribution saves you 20 in taxes. The HSA is triple tax advantaged: contributions are pretax, growth is tax free, and withdrawals for qualified medical expenses are tax free. You have a few months left. Make them count.