Adjusted Limits

The Internal Revenue Service has announced the 2006 adjusted limits that affect the operation of tax-qualified retirement plans, including 401(k) plans, and certain other types of employee benefit plans. Please see the accompanying table for these new adjusted limits, effective January 1, 2006.

Social Security

The Social Security (OASDI) taxable wage base, which governs the amount of pay subject to Social Security tax withholding and affects plans that are "integrated" with Social Security, also is adjusted annually. For 2006, the wage base has been increased to $94,200. The Medicare tax, however, applies to all wages without limit.

2006 ADJUSTED LIMITS

Provision

2006 Limit

Maximum 401(k) Contributions

$15,000

Maximum Compensation Limit

$220,000

Highly Compensated Employees

Earning (in previous year) more than



$100,000

Key Employee Limit

$140,000

Annual Contribution Limit for Defined Contribution Plans

$44,000

Annual Benefit Limit for Defined Benefit Plans

$175,000

SIMPLE Plan Limit

$10,000

Age 50 and Older Catch-Up Contribution Limit

All plans other than SIMPLE Plans

SIMPLE Plans



$5,000

$2,500

Annual Contribution Limit for Section 457 Deferred Compensation Plans (government and tax-exempt organizations)

$15,000

ESOP:

Maximum account balance subject to five-year distribution period

Each dollar amount of account balance in excess of $830,000 that
adds one year to distributionperiod



$885,000

$175,000

Simplified Employee Pension Plans (SEPs)

Contributions must be made for employees earning at least



$450

The content of this article is intended to provide a general guide to the subject matter. Specialist advice should be sought about your specific circumstances.