Donna McElroy
Donna McElroy
2955 Ridgelake Dr.
Suite 104
Metairie, Louisiana 70002
donna@fisadvisor.com
(504) 339-8762
With each new year comes a wave of updates to financial rules and limits, and 2025 is no exception. These changes may have a meaningful impact on how much you save and how efficiently you do it, especially with tax-advantaged accounts. Below, we’ll break down seven key adjustments you may leverage to fine-tune your savings strategy and maximize your tax benefits.
Health Savings Accounts (HSAs) remain a standout option for those seeking tax savings and a way to prepare for future healthcare costs. For 2025, contribution limits are rising:
If you’re 55 or older, you may still make an additional $1,000 catch-up contribution. The triple tax benefits—pre-tax contributions, tax-free growth, and tax-free withdrawals for qualified expenses—make HSAs a powerful tool for both healthcare spending and retirement planning.
FSAs, offered through employers, also see a bump in contribution limits. In 2025, you may set aside up to $3,300 in pre-tax dollars, compared to $3,200 in 2024. Remember, FSAs have a “use-it-or-lose-it” rule, so careful planning is essential to avoid forfeiting unused funds.
If you’re contributing to a 401(k), 403(b), 457, or similar plan, you’ll be able to save more in 2025. The annual limit increases to $23,500, up from $23,000. For those over 50, the catch-up contribution remains at $7,500, bringing the total potential contribution to $31,000.
Employer contributions also get a boost, with combined employee and employer contributions capped at $70,000 (or $77,500 with catch-up contributions).
A noteworthy change from the SECURE 2.0 Act affects those between 60 and 63. Starting in 2025, this group may contribute the greater of $10,000 or 150% of the regular catch-up amount. For most, this means a total of $11,250 in additional catch-up contributions, significantly increasing their retirement savings potential during these critical pre-retirement years.
Roth IRAs continue to offer significant tax advantages, but income limits determine eligibility. In 2025, these limits rise, broadening access:
While the contribution limit remains at $7,000 (plus a $1,000 catch-up for those over 50), the higher income thresholds allow more people to take advantage of tax-free withdrawals in retirement.
SEP-IRAs offer another avenue for tax-deferred savings for business owners and the self-employed. In 2025, contribution limits increase to $70,000, up from $69,000. While these accounts don’t allow employee contributions, the higher limit is a boon for entrepreneurs looking to bolster their retirement savings.
Solo 401(k)s, ideal for self-employed individuals without full-time employees, also see a boost. For 2025, employee contributions increase to $23,500; combined employer and employee contributions may reach up to $70,000 (or $77,500 with catch-ups for those over 50). Individuals aged 60-63 may leverage the “super catch-up” to contribute up to $81,250.
These changes underscore the importance of revisiting your savings strategy annually. Whether it’s maximizing contributions or taking advantage of new catch-up provisions, adjusting your plan now may help you make the most of your financial opportunities in 2025. If you’re unsure where to start, consider consulting a financial professional who may tailor these updates to your unique goals.
By staying informed and proactive, you may position yourself for a more secure financial future.
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