Retirement accounts rebound to record highs after early-year slump. Here’s how to maximize your contributions

Core Insights - The third quarter of 2025 saw significant improvements for investors, with record highs in retirement products reported by Fidelity, including 401(k)s and IRAs [1] - The average 401(k) balance reached $144,400, a 20% increase since Q3 2020, while the average IRA balance was $137,902, reflecting a 17% increase over the same period [1] - The number of 401(k) millionaires increased by 10% and IRA millionaires by 11.5% from Q2 to Q3, indicating a growing trend in high-net-worth investors [2] Contribution Trends - The contribution rate for 401(k)s remained stable at 14.2% in Q3, close to the ideal 15% range, suggesting strong employer support and investor resilience amid market fluctuations [3] - Younger generations are increasingly opting for Roth 401(k)s, with approximately 20% of Gen Z and 19% of millennials choosing this option, indicating a shift towards long-term investment strategies [4] - The trend towards Roth accounts is also evident in IRAs, with 95% of Gen Zers investing in a Roth IRA, highlighting a preference for personalized investment decisions [5] Regulatory Changes - The IRS has announced increased contribution limits for 401(k)s to $24,500 (up from $23,500) and for IRAs to $7,500 (up from $7,000), along with an increase in catch-up contributions for IRAs for those over 50 to $1,100 from $1,000 [6]