As we reach the midpoint of 2026, it’s the perfect time to review your retirement savings and make sure you’re taking full advantage of the benefits available through The Animation Guild (TAG) 401(k) Plan.
2026 IRS Contribution Limits
The IRS has increased retirement plan contribution limits for 2026:
- Standard Contribution Limit: $24,500
- Catch-Up Contribution: (Ages 50–59 and 64+): Additional $8,000
- Enhanced Catch-Up Contribution: (Ages 60–63): Additional $11,250
Maximum Annual Employee Contributions
- Under Age 50: $24,500
- Ages 50–59 and 64+: $32,500
- Ages 60–63: $35,750
If you’re eligible for catch-up contributions, these increased limits provide an excellent opportunity to boost your retirement savings and make the most of your peak earning years.
Enrolling or Restarting Your TAG 401(k)
The TAG 401(k) Plan is sponsored by The Animation Guild and is separate from your employer. Participation is voluntary and requires member action to enroll, restart contributions, or make changes to contribution elections.
Eligibility
To be eligible to participate in the TAG 401(k) Plan, you must have worked at least 90 days under The Animation Guild (IATSE Local 839) jurisdiction or under a special agreement that permits participation by certain other IATSE locals.
New Enrollment
If you are enrolling in the TAG 401(k) Plan for the first time, please note:
- You will not be automatically enrolled.
- The TAG 401(k) Plan requires a separate enrollment process through The Animation Guild.
- Contributions cannot begin until your enrollment request has been submitted and processed.
- Contribution elections and percentage changes must be submitted through the TAG office.
To enroll:
Visit the TAG Member Portal: https://iatse839portal.membership.winmill.net/
If you have never logged in:
- Click the blue “Forgot Password”
- Enter the email address you have on file with TAG.
- Select “Send “
- Follow the instructions sent to your email to create or update your login to the Member Portal.
- Navigate to the 401(k) Page and select the Enrollment Form.
- Complete and submit the form electronically.
Restarting Contributions
If you are already enrolled in the TAG 401(k) Plan and are beginning a new project/season, you only need to update this information. For changes such as studio, a different payroll company, or contribution percentages, please use the Change Form.
To restart:
- Log in to the TAG Member Portal.
- Navigate to the 401(k) Page.
- Open the Restart Request Form.
- Update your project information or submit the Change Form.
Important Reminder
Because the TAG 401(k) Plan is not employer-sponsored, your contribution elections do not automatically transfer between projects, studios, or payroll companies. Members are responsible for monitoring their participation and ensuring enrollment, restart requests, and contribution changes are submitted when needed. Submitting forms promptly can help avoid delays in payroll deductions and missed contribution opportunities.
Stay on Track
- Review your current contribution rate on your current pay stub.
- Consider increasing your contribution percentage if you would like to maximize your annual contribution limit.
- Verify that contributions begin after starting a new project or studio.
- Monitor your Vanguard account regularly to ensure contributions are being deposited correctly.
Don’t Leave Money on the Table
Whether you’re just getting started, increasing your savings rate, or taking advantage of catch-up contributions, now is an excellent time to evaluate your retirement savings strategy. Even small increases to your contribution rate today can make a significant impact on your long-term financial future.
Learn more about the TAG 401(k) here.
Questions? Need assistance? Visit the TAG 401(k) page or contact us at 401k@tag839.org.
Your future self will thank you!