Retirement Plan Contribution Limits for 2008

401(k), 403(b) and 457(b) Contribution Limits for 2008

A reader named Tom recently wrote in with the following question:

I have been looking online for 2008 403(b) contribution limits and can’t find the info. Can you tell me what the 2008 403(b) contribution limits are? Or where I can find them?
After a bit of digging, I was able to find the answer… Unfortunately, according to a recent press release from the IRS, the limit on elective deferrals will remain unchanged for 2008 at $15,500/year. This applies to things like 401(k), 403(b) and 457(b) plans.

The good news is that aggregate limit (employer + employee contributions), which is specific by Section 415(c)(1)(A) of the Internal Revenue Code, is increasing from $45,000/year to $46,000/year (this is the so-called 415(c) limit). So there’s a bit of extra breathing room for retirement contributions, but only if your combined employee/employer contributions are bumping up against the limit.