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Calculators/Retirement & Investing
401(k) Calculator
Project your 401(k) balance at retirement based on your current savings, contributions, employer match, and expected investment return.
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% of contribution
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Projection Summary
Years Until Retirement35 years
Annual Employer Match$300
Total You Contribute$210,000
Total With Employer Match$220,500
Projected Balance at Retirement
$977,658
Your Contributions
$210,000
With Employer Match
$220,500
How to Use This Calculator
1
Know the 2024 contribution limits
The IRS 401(k) contribution limit for 2024 is $23,000 per year (under age 50). Workers aged 50+ can contribute an additional $7,500 catch-up contribution for a total of $30,500. Employer contributions do not count toward your personal limit.
2
Maximize your employer match first
The employer match is free money. If your employer matches 50% of contributions up to 6% of your salary, contribute at least 6% to get the full match before putting money elsewhere. Leaving the match on the table is effectively a pay cut.
3
Set a realistic return rate
The S&P 500 has historically averaged about 10% annually before inflation, or ~7% after inflation. Use 6–7% for long-term projections to stay conservative. Lower rates (5%) account for a more conservative portfolio mix as you near retirement.
Real-World Examples
35-Year Career Start
Current Age
25
Retirement Age
65
Annual Contribution
$6,000
Employer Match
50% up to 6% of $60k salary
Return Rate
7%
Result~$1.4M at retirement
Starting early is the single most powerful factor. The 40-year time horizon does the heavy lifting.
Mid-Career Catch-Up
Current Age
45
Current Balance
$75,000
Annual Contribution
$23,000
Retirement Age
65
Return Rate
7%
Result~$1.2M at retirement
Maxing contributions at 45 with an existing balance still builds substantial wealth.
Frequently Asked Questions
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