401(k) Calculator
What will your 401(k) be worth when you retire? Enter your current balance, monthly contribution, employer match, and expected return to see the projected balance — and what the match alone is worth.
How this calculator works
The calculator compounds your current balance and monthly contributions (plus the employer match) monthly at the return you enter. The employer match is modeled as a percentage of your contribution — the common formula is "50% of your contributions up to 6% of pay" — so if your contribution is small, the match in your real plan may cap out; if it is very large, the cap may cut it.
Frequently asked questions
How much should I contribute to my 401(k)?
At minimum, contribute enough to collect the full employer match — that is a guaranteed 50–100% return. The 2026 limit is $24,500 ($32,500 at 50+, $35,750 at 60–63), and anything above the match generally beats taxable investing thanks to the tax deferral.
What return should I assume?
The stock market's long-run average is around 7% after inflation (about 10% nominal). Use 5–7% for a conservative estimate and 7–9% for an optimistic one. Beating the market is not the goal — time in the market is.
Does the calculator account for fees and taxes?
No — fund fees (typically 0.05–1% per year) quietly eat into returns, and withdrawals in retirement are taxed as ordinary income for a traditional 401(k). The Roth side grows tax-free instead. Both effects can be approximated by lowering or raising the return rate you enter.
Disclaimer: Results are estimates for general information only and do not constitute financial, tax, or legal advice. Figures reflect 2026 rules and may change. Always confirm current limits and consult a qualified professional before making decisions. Official figures: IRS.gov · 2026 limits per IRS tax inflation adjustments.