Project your 401(k) balance at retirement from your salary, contribution rate and employer match. The calculator applies the 2026 IRS limit of $24,500 ($32,500 at age 50+) and grows your pay each year.
2026 401(k) limits
| Limit | 2026 |
|---|---|
| Employee deferral | $24,500 |
| Catch-up, age 50+ | $8,000 (total $32,500) |
| Higher catch-up, age 60–63 | $11,250 (total $35,750) |
Example projections to age 65
10% contribution, 50% match up to 6% of pay, 3% raises, 7% annual return, starting from $0.
| Start age | Salary | Balance at 65 |
|---|---|---|
| 25 | $60,000 | $2,363,859 |
| 30 | $75,000 | $1,983,617 |
| 35 | $90,000 | $1,569,692 |
| 45 | $100,000 | $694,134 |
Starting ten years earlier can be worth more than a much higher salary later — that is compounding at work. Always contribute at least enough to get the full employer match; it is an instant return on your money.
Frequently asked questions
How does an employer match work?
A common formula is 50% of what you contribute, up to 6% of your pay. If you earn $75,000 and contribute 6%, your employer adds $2,250 a year.
Traditional or Roth 401(k)?
Traditional contributions lower taxable income now and are taxed in retirement; Roth contributions are taxed now and come out tax-free later. Many people split between the two.
Is this balance in today’s dollars?
No, it is in future (nominal) dollars. To think in today’s purchasing power, lower the return by about 2–3 points for inflation.
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Projections are hypothetical, assume steady returns and are not investment advice.
