401(k) Calculator (2026)

Project your 401(k) balance at retirement including employer match. Uses 2026 IRS elective-deferral limits.

Instant results Private — runs in your browser Updated January 1970

Inputs

$
%
% match
% of salary
$
%
Projected balance at retirement
$1,529,214.83
2026 contribution cap for your age: $24,500
Your annual (capped)
$8,500.00
Employer match / yr
$2,550.00
Total monthly
$920.83
Balance growth

How it works

Monthly compounding · end-of-period contributions. Match = min(your %, match cap) × match % × salary. Your deferral is capped at the 2026 IRS limit for your age. Combined contribution compounded to retirement age.

Frequently asked questions

What is the 2026 401(k) limit?

Elective deferral $24,500. Age 50+ add $8,000. Age 60–63 SECURE 2.0 super-catch-up is $11,250.

Is this guaranteed?

No — these are projections that assume your inputs hold. Real markets and life are variable.

What's the 4% safe-withdrawal rule?

The Trinity Study suggests withdrawing 4% of a balanced portfolio in year one and adjusting for inflation typically lasts 30+ years.

Should I max out my 401(k)?

At minimum, capture the full employer match — that's free money. Beyond that, balance against debt payoff and emergency reserves.

Roth vs. Traditional?

Roth wins if you'll be in a higher tax bracket in retirement; Traditional wins if you'll be in a lower bracket.

When should I start saving?

Immediately. The single biggest variable in retirement success is years of compounding.

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Results are estimates for educational purposes only and are not financial advice. Verify with a qualified professional before making decisions.

Last updated January 1970