If you’ve been paying attention to retirement planning news, you’ve probably heard about the SECURE 2.0 Act. But here’s the thing: 2026 brings some of the most significant provisions yet, and if you’re a Stuart, FL resident approaching retirement (or already there), these changes could reshape your entire strategy.

At Davies Wealth Management, we’ve been digging into these updates to help our clients make the most of every opportunity. Let’s break down what’s changed, what it means for your wallet, and how to position yourself for a more secure retirement.

Table of Contents

  1. What Is the SECURE 2.0 Act?
  2. The Big 2026 Changes You Need to Know
  3. Super Catch-Up Contributions for Ages 60-63
  4. Roth Catch-Up Requirements for High Earners
  5. Penalty-Free Long-Term Care Distributions
  6. Your 2026 Action Plan
  7. How Stuart Residents Can Benefit

What Is the SECURE 2.0 Act?

The SECURE 2.0 Act, passed in late 2022, represents one of the most comprehensive retirement legislation packages in decades. Think of it as an upgrade to the original SECURE Act of 2019: designed to help Americans save more, access their money more flexibly, and ultimately enjoy a more financially stable retirement.

The legislation rolls out in phases, with different provisions kicking in each year. While some changes took effect immediately, 2026 marks a particularly important milestone with several high-impact provisions finally becoming active.

Staircase representing progress toward retirement with each year, highlighting new SECURE 2.0 Act provisions for 2026

The Big 2026 Changes You Need to Know

Here’s a quick snapshot of what’s new this year:

Provision What It Means Who Benefits
Super Catch-Up Contributions Up to $35,750 in 401(k) contributions Ages 60-63
Roth Catch-Up Mandate Required Roth treatment for high earners Those earning $150K+
Long-Term Care Distributions Penalty-free withdrawals for LTC premiums All ages
Paper Statement Requirements Annual statements for non-digital participants Plan sponsors

Let’s dive deeper into the provisions that matter most for your retirement planning.

Super Catch-Up Contributions for Ages 60-63

This is arguably the biggest opportunity for pre-retirees in 2026. If you’re between 60 and 63 years old, you can now contribute significantly more to your employer-sponsored retirement plan.

Here’s how the numbers break down:

  • Base 401(k) contribution limit (2026): $24,500
  • Standard catch-up (age 50+): $8,000
  • Super catch-up (ages 60-63): $11,250

That means if you’re in that sweet spot between 60 and 63, your maximum contribution jumps to $35,750 for the year. Compare that to the $32,500 limit for those 64 and older, and you’ll see why this window matters.

Why does this matter for Stuart residents? Many of our clients in the Treasure Coast area are approaching this age range and have the financial flexibility to maximize contributions. If you’ve been behind on retirement savings or simply want to turbocharge your nest egg before stepping back from work, this is your moment.

Pro tip: This provision applies to 401(k)s, 403(b)s, and governmental 457(b) plans. If you’re not sure whether your employer’s plan has adopted this option, now’s the time to ask HR.

Older couple reviewing retirement financial strategies at home, illustrating 2026 catch-up contribution planning

Roth Catch-Up Requirements for High Earners

Here’s where things get a bit more nuanced. Starting in 2026, if you’re 50 or older and earned more than $150,000 in FICA wages during 2025, your catch-up contributions must be made on a Roth (after-tax) basis.

At first glance, this might feel like a limitation. But let’s reframe it: Roth contributions grow tax-free, and qualified withdrawals in retirement are completely tax-free. For high earners who expect to remain in a similar or higher tax bracket during retirement, this forced Roth treatment could actually be a strategic advantage.

A few things to keep in mind:

  • This requirement only applies if your employer’s plan offers Roth contribution features
  • Plans without Roth options must either add them or prevent high earners from making catch-ups
  • The $150,000 threshold is based on prior-year wages, so your 2025 income determines your 2026 treatment

If you’re working with a financial advisor, this is exactly the kind of situation where personalized guidance pays off. The tax implications can vary dramatically based on your specific circumstances.

Penalty-Free Long-Term Care Distributions

Long-term care planning is something we discuss frequently at Davies Wealth Management: especially with our Stuart-area clients who are thinking ahead about healthcare needs. The SECURE 2.0 Act now provides a meaningful new option.

Starting in 2026, retirement plans can permit penalty-free withdrawals to pay qualified long-term care insurance premiums. Here are the limits:

  • The actual premium amount you’re paying
  • 10% of your vested account balance
  • $2,500 (indexed for inflation)

You’ll receive the lesser of these three amounts without facing the standard 10% early withdrawal penalty. While ordinary income taxes still apply, avoiding that penalty makes this a more practical option for funding LTC coverage.

This provision is particularly relevant for Florida residents. With our aging population and the rising costs of extended care, having flexibility to tap retirement funds for LTC insurance can be a game-changer.

We’ve explored topics like this in depth on The 1715 Treasure Coast Podcast: worth a listen if you want to hear more about how these strategies play out in real-world scenarios.

Senior hands holding a shield with house and heart, symbolizing long-term care flexibility in SECURE 2.0 Act

Your 2026 Action Plan

Ready to put this knowledge into action? Here’s your step-by-step approach:

1. Review Your Plan’s Capabilities

Not all employer plans have adopted every SECURE 2.0 provision. Contact your HR department or plan administrator to confirm:

  • Whether super catch-up contributions are available
  • If Roth contribution features are offered
  • Whether LTC distribution options have been added

2. Assess Your Income Eligibility

Pull your 2025 W-2 and check your FICA wages. If you earned over $150,000 and you’re 50+, prepare for mandatory Roth catch-ups. This isn’t necessarily bad: but it does require planning.

3. Maximize If You’re 60-63

If you fall within this age window, prioritize maxing out contributions. The super catch-up opportunity disappears once you turn 64, so the clock is ticking.

4. Coordinate Your Estate Plan

Retirement account changes often ripple into estate planning. Beneficiary designations, trust structures, and tax projections may all need updating. If you haven’t reviewed your estate plan recently, our estate planning tool is a great place to start.

5. Work With a Professional

The interplay between contribution strategies, tax treatment, and retirement timing is complex. A qualified financial advisor can help you see the full picture and avoid costly mistakes.

How Stuart Residents Can Benefit

Living on Florida’s Treasure Coast comes with unique advantages: no state income tax being a big one. When you combine that with strategic use of Roth contributions and the new SECURE 2.0 provisions, you’re positioned to keep more of what you’ve earned.

At Davies Wealth Management, we specialize in helping Stuart-area residents navigate exactly these kinds of decisions. Whether you’re a business owner weighing wealth management options or an individual mapping out your retirement timeline, we’re here to help.

The SECURE 2.0 Act isn’t just legislation: it’s an opportunity. And 2026 might be one of the most important years to take advantage of what’s available to you. Don’t let these provisions pass you by.

Ready to talk strategy? Reach out to Davies Wealth Management to schedule a conversation about how these 2026 changes fit into your overall retirement plan. Your future self will thank you.