401(k) Calculator
Project your 401(k) balance at retirement, including employer match, salary growth, and IRS contribution limits.
Updated 2025-12-15Source: IRS Notice 2024-80 (2025 retirement plan limits)
Balance at retirement
$1,126,522
Your contributions
$214,089
Employer match
$107,045
Investment growth
$780,388
Year-by-year growth
| Year | Your $ | Match $ | Balance |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | $4,500 | $2,250 | $33,973 |
| 6 | $5,217 | $2,608 | $92,893 |
| 11 | $6,048 | $3,024 | $182,738 |
| 16 | $7,011 | $3,505 | $317,104 |
| 21 | $8,128 | $4,064 | $515,245 |
| 26 | $9,422 | $4,711 | $804,374 |
| 30 | $10,605 | $5,302 | $1,126,522 |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the 2025 401(k) contribution limit?+
The 2025 IRS limit is $23,500 for employees under age 50, plus a $7,500 catch-up contribution for those 50 and older (total $31,000). Employer match is on top and does not count against this limit.
How does employer match work?+
Many employers match a percentage of your contribution up to a salary cap. Common example: '50% match up to 6% of salary' means if you contribute 6%, employer adds 3%. Always contribute at least enough to get the full match — it's free money.
What annual return should I assume?+
Historical S&P 500 average is ~10% nominal, ~7% inflation-adjusted. A diversified target-date fund typically returns 5–8% inflation-adjusted. Use 7% for a realistic long-term projection.
Should I do Roth or Traditional 401(k)?+
Roth 401(k) contributions are taxed now, withdrawn tax-free in retirement. Traditional is the opposite. Roth wins if you expect to be in a higher tax bracket in retirement; Traditional wins if lower. Many savers split 50/50.
Does this include catch-up contributions?+
No — this calculator uses the under-50 limit of $23,500. If you're 50+, you can contribute an additional $7,500/year. Adjust your contribution percentage accordingly.