How to use the 401(k) Calculator tool
3 simple steps · under a minute
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Enter your age and salary
Type your age, planned retirement age and current salary.
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Add contributions and match
Enter the percent you contribute and your employer’s match formula, such as 50% up to 6%.
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See your 401(k) at retirement
Read your projected balance, split into your money, the match and growth.
About 401(k) calculator
A 401(k) is an employer-sponsored retirement plan in the United States. You contribute part of each paycheck before tax, and many employers add a matching contribution — free money that makes a 401(k) one of the best ways to save for retirement. This 401(k) calculator projects your balance at retirement.
Always contribute at least enough to get the full employer match. The calculator applies the 2026 IRS limits automatically, including the larger catch-up contributions for savers aged 50 and over, so your projection stays realistic even with a high contribution rate.
Employer match
Handles common match formulas like 100% up to 3% or 50% up to 6% of salary.
2026 IRS limits
Caps contributions at $24,500, with $8,000 catch-up from age 50 and $11,250 at ages 60–63.
Salary growth
Your contributions rise with your pay, as they do in real life.
Frequently asked questions
What is the 401(k) limit for 2026?
$24,500 for employee contributions. Savers aged 50 and over can add an $8,000 catch-up, and those aged 60–63 can add $11,250 instead.
How does an employer match work?
A common formula is 50% of your contributions up to 6% of salary: contribute 6% and your employer adds 3%. Contributing less than the match limit leaves free money on the table.
Traditional or Roth 401(k)?
Traditional contributions lower your taxes now and are taxed on withdrawal; Roth contributions are taxed now and come out tax-free in retirement. Many people use a mix.
What return should I expect?
A diversified stock-heavy portfolio has historically averaged around 6–8% a year over long periods, but returns vary and are not guaranteed.
Is this financial advice?
No. It is an estimate before taxes and fees. Check your plan’s details and talk to an adviser.