Money · Retirement
401(k) Calculator
See what your 401(k) could grow to by retirement, how much your employer's match adds, and whether you're leaving free money on the table.
Your result
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How to use this 401(k) calculator
Enter your age, the age you hope to retire, your current balance and salary, and the percentage you contribute. Add your employer's match formula. A common one is "50% of what you contribute, up to 6% of pay." The projection grows your savings monthly at the return you choose and raises your salary each year.
2026 401(k) limits
| Your age in 2026 | You can contribute |
|---|---|
| Under 50 | $24,500 |
| 50–59 or 64+ | $32,500 ($24,500 + $8,000 catch-up) |
| 60–63 | $35,750 ($24,500 + $11,250 catch-up) |
Employer contributions don't count toward these limits, but the combined total is capped at $72,000 (plus catch-up). Starting in 2026, catch-up contributions for people who earned more than $150,000 in FICA wages the prior year must go into a Roth 401(k).
How it's calculated
Worked example
Common questions
How much could I contribute to get the full match?
Enough to reach your plan's match limit, often 3% to 6% of pay. Below that, part of the match goes unused. Your plan's summary or HR team can confirm your formula and vesting schedule.
What return should I use?
Returns aren't guaranteed and vary by year and investment mix. Many people test a cautious rate (4–5%) and a more optimistic one (7–8%) to see a range. This calculator doesn't predict market performance.
Traditional or Roth 401(k)?
Traditional contributions lower today's taxable income and are taxed when withdrawn. Roth contributions are taxed now and can be withdrawn tax-free in retirement if rules are met. The better fit depends on your tax rate now versus later.
Is the projected balance in today's dollars?
No. It's a future amount before inflation and taxes. To see roughly what it might buy in today's money, try the inflation calculator.