Don't confuse the maximum total contribution with the maximum deferral. For example, just looking at 403B plans for people under age 50, the wage deferral limit is $22,500 and the overall limit for employee+employer contribution is $66,000. That does not mean you can defer $66,000 of your own salary, your deferral is still limited to $22,500. The rest would have to come from an employer match, if they offer one.
