Time is running out to maximize your 2025 retirement savings. The deadline to make IRA contributions that count toward tax year 2025 is April 15, 2026—just nine days away. Here's what you need to know to take full advantage of this last-minute opportunity.
2025 Contribution Limits
For tax year 2025, you can contribute up to $7,000 to your traditional or Roth IRA. If you're age 50 or older, you can add an extra $1,000 in catch-up contributions, bringing your total limit to $8,000.
Important: These limits apply to your combined contributions across all traditional and Roth IRAs. If you have multiple accounts, the total you contribute to all of them cannot exceed $7,000 (or $8,000 if 50+).
Filing an Extension Doesn't Extend the IRA Deadline
A critical point many taxpayers miss: Filing a tax return extension does not extend your IRA contribution deadline. Even if you file for an extension to submit your 2025 taxes later, April 15, 2026 remains the absolute last day to make IRA contributions for the 2025 tax year.
This catches many people off guard. The IRS treats the contribution deadline separately from the filing deadline.
Traditional IRA vs. Roth: Which Makes Sense Now?
Traditional IRA: Contributions may be tax-deductible, reducing your 2025 taxable income. This is particularly valuable if you're in a higher tax bracket now than you expect to be in retirement. For 2025, single filers covered by a workplace retirement plan can deduct contributions if their modified AGI is below $79,000, with a phase-out up to $89,000. Married couples filing jointly have a phase-out range of $126,000 to $146,000.
Roth IRA: Contributions aren't deductible, but qualified withdrawals in retirement are completely tax-free. For 2025, single filers can contribute fully if their modified AGI is below $150,000, with phase-out up to $165,000. Married couples filing jointly have a phase-out range of $236,000 to $246,000.
If you're unsure which option to choose, consider your current tax bracket versus your expected retirement tax bracket, and whether you value the upfront tax deduction or tax-free growth.
Looking Ahead: 2026 Limits Are Higher
Once you've maximized your 2025 contributions, turn your attention to 2026. The IRS has increased IRA contribution limits to $7,500 for 2026, with catch-up contributions rising to $1,100 for those 50 and older (up from $1,000). That means eligible savers 50+ can contribute up to $8,600 in 2026.
The income phase-out ranges have also increased:
- Traditional IRA deductions for single filers covered by a workplace plan: $81,000 to $91,000
- Roth IRA contributions for singles: $153,000 to $168,000
- Roth IRA contributions for married filing jointly: $242,000 to $252,000
Action Steps Before April 15
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Check your 2025 contributions: Review your IRA statements to see how much you've already contributed for 2025.
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Calculate your remaining room: Subtract your contributions from the $7,000 limit (or $8,000 if 50+).
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Verify income eligibility: Ensure your 2025 modified AGI falls within the allowable limits for deductible traditional IRA contributions or Roth contributions.
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Make the contribution: Contact your IRA custodian or log into your account. Specify that the contribution is for tax year 2025, not 2026.
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Keep documentation: Save confirmation of your contribution for your tax records.
The Bottom Line
Contributing to an IRA is one of the most straightforward ways to reduce your tax burden while building retirement savings. With the April 15 deadline just days away, now is the time to act if you haven't maximized your 2025 contributions. Even a partial contribution is better than none—every dollar you contribute now has decades of potential tax-advantaged growth ahead of it.
Sources: IRS, Directed IRA, Fidelity, Charles Schwab, AARP