**Title:** New 401(k) Rule in 2026: High Earners Must Make Catch-Up Contributions as Roth, Not Pretax Let me know if you want a more creative or attention-grabbing headline!

Absolutely! Below is an original blog article based solely on your provided information, tailored to a US stock news audience: --- # Major 401(k) Change for High Earners Arrives in 2026: What Investors Need to Know **A significant shift is coming for retirement savers—and it could impact both your long-term tax strategy and how you approach your workplace savings plan. Starting in 2026, high-earning employees making catch-up contributions to their 401(k) plans must make those contributions on an after-tax Roth basis, not pretax.** ## The New Rule: Catch-Up Contributions Go Roth for High Earners The IRS defines "catch-up contributions" as extra payments workers 50 or older can funnel into their retirement plans, above the standard annual limits. Historically, savers could choose either pretax (traditional) or after-tax (Roth) options for these extra contributions. But beginning in 2026, those earning more than $145,000 in wages from their employer must make catch-up contributions to a Roth 401(k) account. These contributions are made after-tax—meaning you pay taxes on your contributions up front, but enjoy tax-free withdrawals in retirement. ## The Impact: Tax Bills Now, Possible Tax Savings Later For high earners at big US companies—in sectors like technology, finance, and healthcare—this new rule could affect both paycheck sizes and long-term tax strategy. Since Roth contributions are made after tax, employees will see slightly larger tax bills in the years they make those contributions, as compared to making traditional 401(k) contributions, which reduce taxable income up front. However, the potential upside is significant: Roth accounts can grow tax-free, and withdrawals in retirement are not taxed. For those expecting to be in a higher tax bracket down the line, or for those who anticipate higher tax rates in the future, this change could actually lead to greater net wealth after retirement. ## What This Means for Company Retirement Plans Companies and plan sponsors will need to update their 401(k) systems to support these changes, ensuring eligibility tracking and proper tax withholding. There’s also a potential HR and education component, as workers will need guidance on how the new Roth-only option affects their income and future retirement withdrawals. US stock investors and employees at major corporations may want to consult with financial advisors to review how this change fits into their investment and retirement strategy. ## Key Takeaways for Stock-Savvy Savers - **Starting in 2026:** All catch-up contributions for employees earning $145,000+ must be after-tax via a Roth 401(k). - **Higher Taxes Now, Tax Freedom Later:** Savers will pay more in taxes today, but potentially less—or nothing—in retirement. - **Action Required:** Get informed about your plan’s options and update your savings strategy accordingly. The retirement landscape is always evolving, and this new rule is a prime example. Staying aware of regulatory changes—and understanding their impact on your net wealth and retirement plan—remains essential for every US investor and worker building for the future. --- *Stay tuned for more updates on retirement plan news and how government changes could shape the future of US stock investing and workplace benefits.*