401(k) retirement calculator
401(k) Calculator
Estimate how salary deferrals, employer match, current balance, age and return assumptions can affect a 401(k) balance by retirement.
Calculator
401(k) Calculator
401(k) planning guide
This tool separates employee contribution, employer match and investment growth so the final number is easier to understand. It applies 2026 employee deferral limits and catch-up handling for ages 50 and older, including the higher age 60-63 catch-up limit.
Worked example
A 35-year-old earning $80,000 who contributes 6% with a 50% employer match up to 6% receives $4,800 of employee contributions and an estimated $2,400 employer match per year before investment growth.
Methodology
Annual employee and employer contributions are converted to monthly contributions and compounded monthly with the selected return assumption. The estimate excludes investment fees, taxes, vesting schedules, loans, hardship withdrawals and plan-specific restrictions.
Paycheck impact
Higher pre-tax contributions can reduce current taxable wages but also reduce take-home pay. Use the Paycheck Calculator after choosing a contribution scenario.
Sources and review
Tax year for contribution limits where used: 2026. Last reviewed: August 16, 2026.
- IRS COLA increases for retirement plan and IRA limits
- IRS 2026 401(k) and IRA contribution limit announcement
- IRS catch-up contribution guidance
- Investor.gov compound interest education
See the calculator methodology and data sources pages.
Frequently asked questions
What 401(k) limit does this use?
The calculator uses the 2026 IRS elective deferral limit of $24,500, plus catch-up limits where age applies.
Does this include employer vesting?
No. Employer match is modeled as contributed immediately; plan vesting rules can change what you keep if you leave.
Does this predict market returns?
No. The return rate is a user-entered assumption, not a forecast.