Illustrative cash balance contributions.

People want a table. Here is one, labeled the only honest way: illustrative 2026 ranges, not IRS limits and not a Sterling quote. They assume durable compensation near the $360,000 cap, a retirement age around 62, a fixed interest credit, and no expensive staff. Change any of those and the deposit moves.

• Around age 40: often a six-figure credit, commonly discussed in a $100,000 to $140,000 illustrative band.
• Around age 50: often nearer $180,000 to $230,000, illustrative.
• Around age 55: often $240,000 to $290,000, illustrative.
• Around age 60: sometimes above $300,000, illustrative, because fewer years remain under the $290,000 benefit ceiling.

The benefit ceiling itself is statutory. The deposit is not. Confirm the ceiling on the IRS page and the paired 401(k) limits in IR-2025-111. A worked comparison with a SEP is on compare. The calculator on this site is a conversation starter with the same warning. For a number you can hand a CPA, we need a census and an Enrolled Actuary. That is the next step.