401(k) Retirement Calculator
For 2026 the IRS lets you defer up to $24,500 into a 401(k), plus catch-up contributions from age 50. See what your contributions and employer match can grow to.
How it's calculated
Each year: balance = balance × (1 + return) + your contribution + employer match. Your contribution is capped at the 2026 IRS limit for your age: $24,500 under 50, $32,500 at 50–59 and 64+ ($8,000 catch-up), and $35,750 at ages 60–63 ($11,250 catch-up). Limits are held at 2026 levels (the IRS raises them with inflation, so real limits will likely be higher). The match is your employer's percentage of your contribution, up to the stated share of pay. "Today's dollars" divides by inflation over the period. Returns are assumptions, not guarantees.
Sources: IRS – 2026 401(k) limits
Questions & answers
What is the 401(k) limit for 2026?
The IRS set the 2026 employee elective deferral limit at $24,500. Workers 50 and older can add an $8,000 catch-up ($32,500 total), and those aged 60 to 63 get a higher $11,250 catch-up.
Does the employer match count toward the $24,500 limit?
No. The $24,500 limit applies to your own deferrals. Employer contributions fall under a separate, higher overall limit.
What is the 4% rule?
A common rule of thumb that withdrawing about 4% of your savings in the first year of retirement, then adjusting for inflation, has historically lasted around 30 years. It is a planning guide, not a guarantee.
More free calculators
Rent affordability30% rule and 28/36 rule›
Paycheck estimator2026 federal tax, Social Security & Medicare›
Sales tax by state2026 state rates + average local›
Tip & bill splitTip and each person's share›