Project how your 401(k) grows with contributions, employer match, and compound returns — and see what contributing a little more could be worth.
This is a simplified projection assuming a constant annual return and steady contributions. Actual returns vary year to year and may be negative. It does not account for inflation, fees, taxes on withdrawal, or contribution-limit changes over time. Results are estimates and not financial advice. Consult a qualified financial advisor.
Your 401(k) balance grows from three sources: the money you contribute from each paycheck, any matching contributions your employer adds, and the compound investment returns on the whole balance. Because returns compound on a growing balance, the later years add far more than the early ones — which is why starting early and contributing consistently matters so much.
This 401(k) calculator models all three, increases your salary each year by the raise you enter, and shows your projected balance at retirement along with how much came from contributions versus growth and employer match.
An employer match is effectively free money and an immediate return on your contribution. If your employer matches up to a percentage of your salary, contributing at least that much is one of the highest-return moves available to most workers. Try lowering your contribution below the match rate above to see how much you'd leave on the table.
A common guideline is 10–15% of your salary including the employer match, but at minimum contribute enough to capture the full match. Increase your rate over time, especially after raises.
The IRS sets an annual employee contribution limit, with an additional catch-up amount for those 50 and older. Always confirm the current year's figure on irs.gov, as it changes periodically.
Many people model 6–7% for long-term diversified investments. The historical stock-market average is higher before inflation, but conservative estimates help avoid over-projecting. Returns are never guaranteed.
No. A traditional 401(k) is taxed on withdrawal in retirement; a Roth 401(k) is funded with after-tax dollars and withdrawn tax-free. This projection shows the pre-tax balance for a traditional 401(k).