This document provides a quick guide to safe harbor 401(k) plans, outlining that they allow employee contributions of up to $19,500 annually as well as catch-up contributions of up to $6,500, and permitting employers to maximize their own contributions. Safe harbor 401(k)s offer pre-approved IRS matching and vesting schedules, tax advantages for both employers and employees, and automatic passing of annual compliance testing to ensure IRS compliance.

1. Contributions up to $19,500 for both 2020 and
2021
Catch-Up contributions up to $6,500 for 2020
and 2021.
Allows employer & highly compensated to
maximize their own contributions.
Pre-approved IRS matching & vesting schedules.
QUICK GUIDE TO:
SAFE HARBOR 401(K)S
C O N T R I B U T I O N S
& M A T C H I N G
F I L I N G &
C O M P L I A N C E
T A X
A D V A N T A G E S
Employer contributions are deductible on the
employer’s federal income tax return.
Elective contributions and investment gains
might enjoy tax deferral until distribution.
Offers both pre-tax & Roth options.
Requires annual 5500 filing.
A Safe Harbor 401(k) allows the plan sponsor to
automatically pass certain annual compliance
testing to ensure IRS compliance.
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licensed in Florida and Maryland.