Direct Answer
In your 60s, the single highest-priority action is to maximize contributions during the SECURE 2.0 enhanced catch-up window (ages 60-63), where 401(k)/403(b) combined limits reach $35,750 per year. After that window closes at 64, sequence Social Security for maximum lifetime income and close the Medicare coverage gap if retiring before 65.
The First Financial Priority in Your 60s
Why the catch-up window is the first priority in your 60s
The SECURE 2.0 Act raised the 401(k)/403(b) combined catch-up limit to $11,250 for ages 60-63, compared with $8,000 for ages 50-59 and again for ages 64 and older (IRS: 401(k) limit increases to $24,500 for 2026, IRA limit increases to $7,500). At a 22% marginal rate, the extra $3,250 of pre-tax contributions saves roughly $715 a year in federal tax compared with the standard catch-up, or about $2,860 over the four years from age 60 through 63, before investment growth. This window closes when you turn 64, making it irreversible if missed.
How to sequence Social Security around your first priority
Social Security is the second priority because the claiming age decision is permanent. Claiming at 62 locks in a roughly 30% reduction versus waiting to full retirement age (67 for those born 1960 or later), and each additional year of delay past full retirement age adds 8% through age 70 (SSA: Benefits Planner, Retirement (full retirement age and reduction for early claiming)). The first priority is funding contributions during the enhanced window. Once that window closes at 64, run a formal Social Security optimization comparing breakeven ages against your health and portfolio size.
How to handle the Medicare gap if retiring before 65
Medicare eligibility begins at 65. If you retire at 60, 62, or 63, you need a five-year, three-year, or two-year bridge, respectively. Options include COBRA (maximum 18 months), an employer marketplace plan through a working spouse, or an ACA exchange plan. Late enrollment in Medicare Part B carries a 10% premium penalty for each 12-month gap without qualifying coverage. Budgeting the bridge plan is a concrete first-priority planning task.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the SECURE 2.0 enhanced catch-up contribution limit for ages 60-63?
In 2026, the 401(k)/403(b) catch-up contribution for ages 60-63 is $11,250, bringing the combined limit to $35,750 ($24,500 base plus $11,250 catch-up). This is $3,250 more per year than the standard $8,000 catch-up for ages 50-59 or 64 and older. The IRA catch-up does not rise for this age range: it is $1,100 in 2026 for anyone age 50 or older.
Is it better to claim Social Security at 62 or wait?
Waiting is almost always better if you have other income sources and reasonable health. Claiming at 62 permanently reduces your benefit by about 30% versus full retirement age (67 for those born 1960 or later). Delaying from 67 to 70 adds another 24%. The breakeven against early claiming is typically around age 78 to 80 in cumulative dollars received, but the insurance value of a higher guaranteed lifetime income often favors delay regardless.
What happens if I miss the Medicare Initial Enrollment Period?
Missing the Medicare Initial Enrollment Period (three months before through three months after your 65th birthday) without qualifying employer coverage triggers a permanent late-enrollment penalty. Part B premiums rise 10% for each 12-month gap, and this surcharge continues for life. Part D prescription drug penalties are calculated separately but are also permanent. Plan your coverage bridge before retiring.
References
The rules and figures stated on this page come from these primary sources. Tax and benefit rules change, so confirm current amounts with the source before acting.