The quota for 2026 has risen again, but why has it become more difficult to max out?

New digital release:
• The upper limit for under 50 years old increased from $23.5k to $24.5k (+$1k)
• Catch-up for 50 and older rises from $7.5k to $8k (+$500)
• Special catch-up for ages 60-63 is $11.25k, with a total amount of up to $35.75k

It sounds like there are more benefits, but in fact, it's a trap: the higher the limit, the greater the maxout pressure.

But there's no need to panic. The key three points:
1️⃣ Save as much as you can, don't get hung up on not having maxout.
2️⃣ You must take full advantage of the employer match (this is free money)
3️⃣ Rise in salary? Directly transfer to 401k, this way there won't be the illusion of "spending".

Data shows that most people can't reach the maximum limit at all. But as long as you continue to invest and receive matching contributions, the power of compound interest after 30 years is enough to change the quality of retirement life. Social Security can only cover 40% of living expenses, and the remaining 60% relies on your own savings. Instead of getting hung up on "not achieving the goal", it's better to focus on "whether there is action".