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Reference guides to the money figures that change every year, from tax brackets to Medicare premiums. Each states the current figures, explains how they work, links the official source, and is reviewed when the new numbers are published.

Retirement and benefits

Social Security Retirement Benefits The 2026 Social Security numbers: 2.8% COLA, full retirement age 67, and what claiming at 62, 67 or 70 does to a monthly benefit. Figures checked 2026-08-02 Retirement Accounts & Contribution Limits 2026 retirement limits: $24,500 for 401(k) plans, $7,500 for IRAs, plus catch-up contributions and the new Roth catch-up rule for high earners. Figures checked 2026-08-02 Medicare Costs in 2026 The 2026 Medicare figures: $202.90 standard Part B premium, $283 Part B deductible, $1,736 Part A hospital deductible, and the IRMAA income tiers. Figures checked 2026-09-11

Taxes

Federal Income Tax Brackets & Standard Deduction The 2026 federal income tax brackets and standard deduction — $16,100 single, $32,200 married filing jointly — with all seven marginal rates. Figures checked 2026-09-11 Long-Term Capital Gains Tax Rates 2026 long-term capital gains: 0% up to $49,450 single or $98,900 jointly, 15% above that, 20% over $545,500 — plus the 3.8% net investment income tax. Figures checked 2026-09-28 Estate Tax Exclusion & Annual Gift Exclusion For 2026 the estate tax exclusion is $15,000,000 per person and the annual gift exclusion is $19,000 per recipient, with a top transfer tax rate of 40%. Figures checked 2026-09-28 Alternative Minimum Tax Exemption & Phase-Out The 2026 alternative minimum tax exemption is $90,100 single and $140,200 filing jointly, phasing out above $500,000 and $1,000,000 of AMT income. Figures checked 2026-09-28 IRS Standard Mileage Rates The IRS business mileage rate rose to 76 cents on 1 July 2026 from 72.5 cents. Both halves of the year, plus the medical, moving and charitable rates. Figures checked 2026-09-28

Health accounts

HSA and FSA Contribution Limits 2026 HSA contribution limits are $4,400 self-only and $8,750 family, the health FSA cap is $3,400, and an HDHP needs a $1,700 minimum deductible. Figures checked 2026-09-28

Guides reviewed by Dylan, finance analyst. General information, not financial, tax or legal advice.