401k Calculator
Project your 401(k) balance at retirement from contributions, match and growth.
A 401(k) combines your own contributions with (often) an employer match and tax-advantaged growth — three separate boosts working together toward retirement. This projects your balance from today's numbers to retirement.
Employer match is free money — don't leave it unclaimed
If your employer matches contributions up to a certain percentage of your salary, not contributing at least enough to get the full match means walking away from guaranteed compensation. It's typically the single highest-return "investment" available to most workers, since it's an instant, guaranteed return before any market growth even happens.
Contribution limits change over time
The IRS sets an annual limit on how much you can personally contribute to a 401(k), which is adjusted periodically for inflation, plus a higher "catch-up" limit for those 50 and older. Check the current year's limit directly with the IRS or your plan provider, since this calculator doesn't enforce contribution caps.
Frequently asked questions
Should I contribute to a 401k or an IRA first?
A common rule of thumb: contribute enough to your 401(k) to get the full employer match first (it's an immediate guaranteed return), then consider maxing out an IRA for potentially lower fees and more investment choices, then return to maxing out the 401(k) if you have more to save.
What's the difference between a traditional and Roth 401k?
Traditional 401(k) contributions reduce your taxable income now, with withdrawals taxed in retirement. Roth 401(k) contributions are made with after-tax money now, with qualified withdrawals tax-free in retirement. Which is better depends largely on whether you expect to be in a higher or lower tax bracket in retirement.