401k Calculator
401(k) Retirement Calculator
e.g. 50 = 50¢ per $1 you contribute
Max % of salary employer will match
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a 401(k)?
A 401(k) is an employer-sponsored retirement savings plan that lets you contribute pre-tax dollars, reducing your taxable income today. Your money grows tax-deferred until withdrawal in retirement.
How much should I contribute to my 401(k)?
At minimum, contribute enough to capture your full employer match — that's an instant 50–100% return. Beyond that, aim for 10–15% of your gross income. The 2026 IRS contribution limit is $23,500 ($31,000 if age 50+).
What is an employer match?
Many employers match a percentage of your contributions — for example, 50% of the first 6% you contribute. If you earn $60,000 and contribute 6% ($3,600), your employer adds $1,800 for free.
What rate of return should I use?
The stock market has historically returned about 7–10% annually before inflation. A conservative estimate of 6–7% is commonly used for long-term retirement projections.
When can I withdraw from my 401(k)?
You can withdraw penalty-free starting at age 59½. Early withdrawals are subject to a 10% penalty plus income taxes. Required Minimum Distributions (RMDs) begin at age 73.