The IRS is unveiling a new program to help eligible individuals save money in retirement. The Saver's Match program may match retirement savings contributions for qualifying low- and moderate-income taxpayers, helping to boost their retirement savings. The program may play an important role in helping set individuals up for a more financially secure retirement.
Learn more about the program, whether you're eligible, and what you need to do to enroll.
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How the Saver's Match program works
The Saver's Match program was enacted as part of the SECURE 2.0 Act and replaces the Saver's Credit. This matches qualifying retirement contributions with federal funds. Certain low- and moderate-income taxpayers may receive a maximum of a 50% match on the first $2,000 of qualified retirement savings contributions they make to an employer-sponsored retirement plan or IRA. Matches are capped at $1,000 annually.
The match applies to each spouse for married couples filing jointly. The matching funds are deposited into a retirement plan or IRA where they may grow over time.
"Millions of low- and moderate-income Americans will have the opportunity to strengthen their retirement savings through the Saver's Match program," IRS Chief Executive Officer Frank J. Bisignano said of the Saver's Match program. "The Saver's Match makes saving easier and more rewarding by providing a direct federal contribution to an eligible taxpayer's retirement account.
When the Saver's Match program takes effect
The Saver's Match program begins in 2027, but eligible taxpayers don't receive the funds during the 2027 calendar year. The match contributions are based on an individual's 2027 retirement contributions. Taxpayers are able to claim the match when they file their 2027 tax return in 2028.
How the Saver's Match might help retirement savings grow
The Saver's Match may help boost retirement savings, which could potentially result in increased growth over time. According to the IRS website, if an individual contributes $20 a month to a retirement account throughout 2027, they'll contribute $240 total for the year. If they qualify for the full 50% match, the government adds $120 to their account, meaning they've saved $360 total for retirement during the first year.
The IRS also provides projected retirement savings over time with the Saver's Match. In the first year, the individual has $360 in savings. By year 10, that figure has grown to $4,700. By year 20, the savings have reached $13,200, and by year 30, the savings total $28,500. The figures demonstrate the power of compound growth and are based on annual growth of 6% per year.
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Who is eligible for the Saver's Match
To qualify for the Saver's Match, taxpayers must make contributions to a retirement plan or IRA, be 18 years old by the end of the tax year, and can't be claimed as a dependent on another person's tax return.
Taxpayers must also meet specific income requirements. For 2027, individuals who are single and married filing separately may make up to $35,449. A taxpayer filing as the head of household may make up to $53,249, while individuals who are married filing jointly may make up to $70,999. The program may offer a full or partial match depending on an individual's income.
The Treasury and IRS notice announcing intended rules
On August 7, the Department of the Treasury and the IRS issued Notice 2026-48, which announced an intent to propose regulations for the Saver's Match program. The notice outlines some anticipated rules, and requests public comments for proposed program regulations. Comments may be submitted through October 5, 2026.
The development of the TrumpIRA.gov website
The issuance of Notice 2026-48 begins the implementation of an Executive Order that officially launches the TrumpIRA.gov website on January 1, 2027. The site may contain information about low-cost IRAs intended to help workers who don't have access to an employer-sponsored retirement plan.
Additionally, the website may list financial institutions that offer IRAs and accept Saver's Match contributions. With such information, the site may be a valuable resource for anyone planning to apply for a Saver's Match.
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How to prepare for the Saver's Match
If you think you may qualify for the Saver's Match, then it's important to plan to make qualifying retirement contributions in 2027. Contributions to an eligible retirement plan or a traditional or Roth IRA may qualify, so plan to start or continue making contributions in 2027. If you don't have access to an eligible retirement plan or a traditional or Roth IRA, plan to open one so you may make contributions. Keep records of all of your contributions, too.
In 2028, you may file Form 8880-A with your 2027 federal tax return to claim the Saver's Match.
Bottom line
The Saver's Match may help qualifying individuals better save for retirement. Now is the time to review your retirement contributions, make sure they qualify, and come up with a plan for contributions in 2027. Remember that the Saver's Match is not automatic, and it's something you'll need to apply for when you file your taxes in 2028.
Be sure to check the TrumpIRA.gov website once it's live for updates on program information and details on IRA accounts. Taking the time to apply for this program may help build your savings and keep you on track for retirement.
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