401(k) Retirement Calculator

Use our free 401(k) calculator to project your retirement savings for 2026 and beyond. Factor in employer matching, catch-up contributions, and investment returns to see how your money can grow.

2026 Contribution Limits

$24,500
Employee Deferral Limit
$8,000
Catch-Up (Age 50+)
$11,250
Super Catch-Up (60-63)
$72,000
Total Annual Limit (415c)

Calculator Features

Retirement Projection

Project savings based on age, salary, and contribution rate with compound growth visualization.

Employer Match

Factor in your employer match percentage and vesting schedule for accurate projections.

Catch-Up Contributions

See the impact of catch-up contributions at age 50+ and the new super catch-up at 60-63.

Roth vs Traditional

Compare after-tax outcomes of Roth vs Traditional 401(k) contributions side by side.

How to Use the Calculator

  1. Enter your current age and planned retirement age
  2. Input your annual salary and expected raise percentage
  3. Set your contribution rate (percentage of salary)
  4. Add your employer match details (match percentage and cap)
  5. Choose your expected annual rate of return (typically 6-8%)
  6. Review your projected retirement savings and monthly income

Frequently Asked Questions

Financial advisors generally recommend contributing at least enough to get your full employer match (free money). Beyond that, aim for 10-15% of your gross salary. The 2026 maximum employee contribution is $24,500 ($32,500 if 50+, $35,750 if 60-63).

Historically, a diversified stock/bond portfolio has returned 7-10% annually before inflation. A conservative estimate of 6-7% is reasonable for planning. Target-date funds typically aim for 7-8% for younger investors, decreasing as you approach retirement.

Our calculator shows nominal returns. To estimate real (inflation-adjusted) purchasing power, subtract 2-3% from your assumed rate of return. For example, if you assume 7% nominal returns, your real return is approximately 4-5%.

The Rule of 72 estimates how long it takes to double your money. Divide 72 by your expected annual return. At 7% returns, your money doubles approximately every 10.3 years. This demonstrates the power of starting early.