Maximum Benefit and Contribution Limits for Retirement Plans:

Contribution

2012

2011

Elective deferral limit under section 402(g)

$17,000

$16,500

Age 50 "catch up" (for 401(k) and 403(b) plans)

$5,500

$5,500

415 Limit

$50,000

$49,000

Annual compensation limit

$250,000

$245,000

Highly compensated employee

$115,000

$110,000

Dollar limit to determine a key employee in a top heavy plan

$165,000

$160,000

Defined Benefit plan annual benefit limit

$200,000

$195,000

Elective deferral limit: "catch up" for SIMPLE retirement accounts

$2,500

$2,500