401(k) retirement calculator
Project your 401(k) balance with annual contributions, employer match and growth.
Estimate with a constant return; taxes and inflation are not included.
How the calculation works
A 401(k) grows from your contributions, the employer match and compound growth. Each year: balance = balance × (1 + return) + contribution + match.
The match is an instant return
If your employer adds 50% of what you contribute, every $1 of yours becomes $1.50 the same day — a 50% "return" before any market growth. Hence rule number one: contribute at least enough to capture the full match.
The default example's trajectory
$10,000 starting + $6,000/yr yours + $3,000 match, at 7%/yr:
| Time | Contributed | Balance |
|---|---|---|
| 10 years | $100,000 | ~$144,000 |
| 20 years | $190,000 | ~$408,000 |
| 30 years | $280,000 | ~$926,000 |
In the final 10 years the balance more than doubles — compounding takes over.
Examples
- Match alone: contributing $6,000/yr with a 50% match, the employer adds $3,000/yr — $90,000 of "free money" over 30 years, before growth.
Frequently asked questions
What is an employer match?
It is when your employer adds to your 401(k) a portion of what you contribute — essentially free money.
Traditional or Roth 401(k)?
Traditional contributions cut taxes today and withdrawals are taxed; Roth contributions are after-tax and withdrawals are tax-free. Roth tends to favor those expecting a higher bracket later.
Is there a contribution limit?
Yes, the IRS sets an annual limit (adjusted yearly, with a catch-up allowance from age 50). Check the current figure at irs.gov.
What if I change jobs?
The balance is yours (the match may vest over time). You can roll it over to the new plan or an IRA tax-free if done directly between institutions.
Can I withdraw early?
Withdrawals before age 59½ generally incur income tax plus a 10% penalty, with few exceptions. A 401(k) is designed to stay until retirement.
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Updated on July 2, 2026 · by Rafael Rossi · Methodology & sources