401(k) Calculator
Project your 401(k) balance from contributions, employer match, and expected return.
Inputs
Result
Visual breakdown
System view
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Formula
Annual employer match = salary × min(employee%, match limit%) × (match% ÷ 100). Future balance compounds monthly: FV = balance · (1 + r/12)^(12y) + (combined/12) · (((1 + r/12)^(12y) − 1) ÷ (r/12)).
Example
$100k salary, 6% contribution, 100% match up to 4% → you put in $6,000, employer adds $4,000. After 30 years at 7% ≈ $1.04M.
Related: Retirement · Roth IRA · Paycheck
How to use
- Set employer match as the rate (e.g. 100% match = 100, 50% match = 50).
- Match limit is the salary % cap — e.g. 'up to 4% of salary'.
- Use a real (after-inflation) return for honest long-term projections.
When it's useful
- Comparing contribution rates against the match.
- Estimating long-term plan balance.
- Showing the value of capturing the full match.
Common examples
Frequently asked
What does 'match limit' mean?
The maximum percent of salary the employer will match. E.g. '100% match up to 4%' means a match limit of 4.
Does this include IRS contribution limits?
No — set realistic numbers yourself. Annual limits change; check current IRS figures before maxing out.
Are taxes modeled?
No. Traditional 401(k) growth is tax-deferred; you'll owe income tax on withdrawals. This is a pre-tax projection.
Why is the result so sensitive to return?
Compounding over 30+ years amplifies small differences. Try 5%, 6%, and 7% to see a realistic range.
People also calculate
More money & work →US-focused educational estimate only — not financial or tax advice. Verify current IRS limits and your plan rules.