Plan Your 2012 401(k) Contribution Limits
Here are some important reminders about your BMC 401(k) Plan.
New IRS contribution limits for 2012
The IRS has announced increased 401(k) contribution limits that will apply in 2012:
- You can contribute up to an annual maximum of $17,000, increased from $16,500 in 2011. You can make before-tax or Roth 401(k) contributions, or a combination of the two.
- There will be a maximum annual contribution limit of $50,000 ($49,000 in 2011). The limit includes both your and BMC's contributions.
- The annual eligible compensation limit is $250,000 ($245,000 in 2011).
- If you're contributing the maximum amount and will reach age 50 or older during 2012, you can also make an additional "catch-up" contribution each pay period. The 2012 catch-up contribution limit is $5,500. Keep in mind that you must make an election if you are newly eligible to make catch-up contributions.
How to plan your 2012 contribution
The BMC 401(k) Plan will match your before-tax and/or Roth 401(k) contributions on a per-pay-period basis in 2012, so it will be important to make sure you're contributing at least 5% of your eligible pay each pay period throughout the year.
In most cases, that's all you need to do to ensure you receive the maximum BMC match. However, if you plan to contribute at a higher level designed to reach the IRS maximum contribution amount, you'll need to plan your contributions carefully to avoid reaching the IRS maximum before the end of the year, which stops your contributions for the remaining pay periods.
The "BMC 401(k) Deferral Calculator" is available on Fidelity NetBenefits®. This tool can help you determine your maximum contribution amount and help you maximize company contributions to your account. Check your year-to-date contributions by reviewing your pay stubs or by going online to Fidelity NetBenefits and running a year-to-date statement. You can change your contribution rate at anytime.