As we approach the close of 2025, the final quarter presents a golden window for proactive retirement planning. This is a time when clients are reflecting on their financial goals and seeking guidance to optimize their savings.
With total U.S. retirement assets surpassing $45.8 trillion as of Q2 2025, and employer-sponsored defined contribution plans alone holding $13.0 trillion, now is the moment to empower your clients to maximize their contributions and take advantage of your customized advice.
Recent data underscores the need for additional planning:
- Only 14% of 401(k) participants maxed out their 2024 contributions ($23,000 limit, rising to $23,500 in 2025), leaving ~11.2 million working Americans (out of 80 million participants) with untapped potential.
➡️JUST ANNOUNCED➡️2026 Contribution Limits: The annual contribution limit for employees who participate in 401(k), 403(b), governmental 457 plans, and the federal government’s Thrift Savings Plan is increased to $24,500, up from $23,500 for 2025.
- Average employee deferral rates did hit a record 7.7% of pay, but a timely conversation could help your clients bridge the gap to the recommended 12–15% savings rate.
Beyond contributions, guidance for clients toward personalization by transitioning assets from their core 401(k) or 403(b) plan account to a Self-Directed Brokerage Account (SDBA) within their plan allows for advice and additional choices that align with their unique risk tolerance and objectives. With 78% of plan assets already in equities and target-date funds dominating (71% of allocations), an SDBA shift enables customized diversification that could enhance long-term returns.
This is your cue to schedule those end-of-year reviews with a simple email or call highlighting the benefits that a boost in contributions and customization can have on their confidence and retirement security.
Make 2025 a year of meaningful progress for all clients—and your practice.
TPFG is here to support advisors with tailored resources, SDBA implementation tools, and quick strategy sessions.
Sources: Vanguard Study, How America Saves 2025, IRS.gov
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