The maximum allowed contribution to the Voluntary Retirement Plan in 2026 is $24,500. An additional $8,000 is allowed if you are age 50 or over (for a total limit of $32,500). If you are a semi-monthly paid employee and want to contribute the maximum allowed in 2026, and want the contributions to come out of your paychecks in equal amounts throughout the year, see instructions below (If you are a weekly employee, please submit a ticket to hr@emerson.edu for assistance). Note that these limits apply to both the pre-tax and Roth contributions (combined) to the Voluntary Retirement Plan (contributions to the Mandatory Retirement Plan do not count towards these limits).
If Under Age 50 – Maximum Allowed: $ 24,500
The (per SM paycheck) voluntary plan contribution elected should be $1,020.84 ($24,500/24).
The election change should be made with Transamerica Monday, Dec. 15 thru Tuesday, Dec. 30, 2025.
The change will first affect the Jan. 15, 2026 paycheck.
If Age 50+ (except for those between 60 and 63; see below) – Maximum Allowed: $32,500
The (per SM paycheck) voluntary plan contribution elected should be $1,354.17 ($32,500/24).
The election change should be made with Transamerica Monday, Dec. 15 thru Tuesday, Dec. 30, 2025.
The change will first affect the Jan. 15, 2026 paycheck.
If Between Age 60 and 63* – Maximum Allowed: $35,750
The (per SM paycheck) voluntary plan contribution elected should be $1,489.59 ($35,750/24).
The election change should be made with Transamerica Monday, Dec. 15 thru Tuesday, Dec. 30, 2025.
The change will first affect the Jan. 15, 2026 paycheck.
*If you are age 59 to 62 on 12/31/2025 you will be eligible an increased catch-up ($11,250); if you are age 63 + on 12/31/25 you will be eligible for the $8,000 catch-up.