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Retirement

401(k) Calculator

Project a 401(k) balance using employee contributions, employer match, time, and estimated return.

Best for: Project a 401(k) balance using current savings, employee and employer contributions, estimated return, and time to retirement.

Your assumptions

Calculate your estimate

Your result

401(k) estimate

Projected balance
$1,441,995.98
Total contributions
$450,000.00
Estimated growth
$991,995.98

Where the projected balance comes from

How to use this 401(k) calculator

Use this 401(k) calculator to project the combined effect of the current balance, employee deferrals, employer contributions, time, and investment return. Enter the total recurring contribution after applying the plan’s actual match formula.

  1. 1

    Start with the current vested balance

    Use the balance available for retirement planning and check how your plan treats unvested employer contributions.

  2. 2

    Combine employee and employer deposits

    Calculate the monthly total using your deferral and the employer match you expect to receive.

  3. 3

    Stress-test time and return

    Compare a conservative return or a delayed contribution increase while keeping the retirement date fixed.

Worked planning example

Example: capture the full employer match

Set up

Model the current 401(k) balance and the combined monthly employee and employer contribution.

Compare

Run a second case using the contribution required to receive the full available match, then compare the projected balance.

Takeaway

An employer match increases the amount invested without requiring the entire contribution to come from take-home pay.

Plan within the rules of the actual 401(k)

Contribution limits, match formulas, investment menus, vesting, and fees vary by plan and year.

  • For 2026, verify employee deferral and catch-up limits before setting the monthly contribution.
  • Distinguish employee deferrals from the broader total-contribution limit.
  • Use a return assumption net of expected investment expenses when possible.

Calculation methodology and assumptions

For this 401(k) estimate, Silvia uses current 401(k) balance, total monthly employee and employer contribution, estimated annual return, years until retirement. Project a 401(k) balance using employee contributions, employer match, time, and estimated return. Results are estimates, not quotes, tax advice, or investment recommendations.

Primary references

Frequently asked questions

What is the 401(k) employee contribution limit for 2026?

The IRS lists a $24,500 elective deferral limit for 2026, plus an $8,000 general catch-up for eligible participants age 50 or older and a higher $11,250 catch-up for eligible ages 60 through 63. Plan rules can impose lower limits.

How should I enter an employer match?

Convert the expected employee contribution and vested employer contribution into one monthly total. Use the plan document or benefits portal rather than assuming a standard match.

Does this estimate include taxes or withdrawals?

No. It projects the account balance before future taxes, withdrawals, required distributions, or plan-specific fees not reflected in the return assumption.

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