401(k) Calculator
Match % (of your contribution)
Up to (% of salary)
Example: 50% match up to 6% of salary. Set both to 0 if no match.
Projected balance at retirement
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Your contributions
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Employer contributions
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Total invested
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Investment growth
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How to Use This Calculator
Enter your annual salary and the percentage you plan to contribute. Add your employer's match details — typically expressed as "X% of your contributions up to Y% of your salary." The calculator grows your contributions plus employer match at your chosen annual return, compounded monthly.
Results are in nominal (future) dollars. To estimate today's purchasing power, use an inflation-adjusted return rate (subtract ~3% from your expected return). For broader retirement planning beyond a 401(k) — including existing savings and other accounts — use the Retirement Calculator.
2025 401(k) Contribution Limits
Employer match and profit sharing contributions do not count toward the $23,500 employee limit.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the 2025 401(k) contribution limit?
For 2025, the IRS contribution limit is $23,500 for employees under 50. Workers aged 50 and older can make an additional $7,500 catch-up contribution for a total of $31,000. These limits are for employee contributions only; employer match does not count toward this cap.
What is an employer match and how does it work?
An employer match is free money your employer adds to your 401(k) based on how much you contribute. A common match is 50% of the first 6% of your salary — meaning if you earn $60,000 and contribute 6% ($3,600), your employer adds $1,800. Always contribute at least enough to get the full match; it's an instant 50–100% return.
What happens to my 401(k) if I change jobs?
You have several options: leave it with your former employer (if allowed), roll it into your new employer's 401(k), roll it into an IRA, or cash it out (not recommended — triggers income taxes plus a 10% early withdrawal penalty if under 59½). Rolling into an IRA or new 401(k) keeps the money growing tax-deferred with no immediate tax hit.