This 401(k) calculator projects how much your 401(k) could be worth when you retire. It includes your employer match, yearly raises, the 2026 IRS contribution limits, catch-up contributions after age 50 (and the higher limit for ages 60–63), and shows the result in today’s dollars so you can see what it would really buy.
2026 401(k) contribution limits
The IRS raised the limits for 2026. They apply to 401(k), 403(b), most 457 plans and the federal Thrift Savings Plan.
| Limit | 2025 | 2026 |
|---|---|---|
| Employee contribution (under 50) | $23,500 | $24,500 |
| Catch-up, age 50 and over | $7,500 | $8,000 |
| Higher catch-up, ages 60–63 | $11,250 | $11,250 |
| Maximum for ages 50–59 and 64+ | $31,000 | $32,500 |
| Maximum for ages 60–63 | $34,750 | $35,750 |
| Total employee + employer limit (under 50) | $70,000 | $72,000 |
New for 2026: if you earned more than $150,000 in FICA wages in 2025, any catch-up contributions you make in 2026 must go in as Roth (after-tax) contributions.
How the 401(k) calculator works
For each year until retirement, the calculator takes your contribution percentage of that year’s salary, caps it at the IRS limit for your age, and adds the employer match. A match of “50% up to 6%” means your employer adds 50 cents for every dollar you contribute, on up to 6% of your salary, so a maximum of 3% of salary. The balance then grows at your expected return, and your salary rises by your expected raise.
Finally, the balance is converted to today’s dollars using your inflation estimate, and the 4% rule gives a rough idea of the monthly income it could support.
Worked example
A 30-year-old earning $75,000 contributes 10% of pay, gets a 50% match up to 6% of salary, already has $25,000 saved, and expects 3% raises and a 7% return. By age 65, the 401(k) could grow to about $2,183,000, or about $920,000 in today’s dollars at 2.5% inflation. That could support roughly $3,070 a month under the 4% rule.
Ways to grow your 401(k) faster
- Get the full match. Contributing less than the match limit leaves part of your pay on the table.
- Raise your rate by 1% a year. Many plans can do this automatically, and you barely notice it alongside a pay raise.
- Watch fees. A 1% yearly fee can cut a long-term balance by a large amount compared with low-cost index funds.
- Use catch-up contributions from age 50, and the higher catch-up between 60 and 63.
Frequently asked questions
How much can I contribute to a 401(k) in 2026?
Up to $24,500 if you are under 50. Workers aged 50 and over can add an $8,000 catch-up for a total of $32,500, and those aged 60 to 63 can add $11,250 instead, for a total of $35,750.
Does the employer match count toward the $24,500 limit?
No. The $24,500 limit is for your own contributions. Employer contributions count toward the separate overall limit of $72,000 for 2026.
Is a 401(k) better than an IRA?
They work well together. A 401(k) has much higher limits and often an employer match; an IRA may offer more investment choice. A common order is: contribute enough to get the full match, then fund an IRA, then add more to the 401(k).
What return should I assume?
Many planners test 5% to 7% a year for a stock-heavy portfolio before inflation. Returns vary and are not guaranteed, so try a lower figure to see a cautious result.
Are 401(k) withdrawals taxed?
Traditional 401(k) withdrawals are taxed as ordinary income, and withdrawals before age 59½ usually face a 10% penalty unless an exception applies. Qualified Roth 401(k) withdrawals are tax-free.
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Last reviewed: October 2026. This calculator is for education only and is not financial, tax or legal advice.