401(k) Calculator
Project your 401(k) balance at retirement and see how much comes from your contributions, the employer match and investment growth.
How it works
Employer match = salary × min(your %, match limit) × match rate; balance compounds monthly at return ÷ 12
Your contribution is a percent of salary. The employer match adds a percentage of what you put in, but only up to the match limit — a “50% up to 6%” plan matches half of the first 6% of salary you contribute. Contributing at least up to the limit is the closest thing to free money in personal finance, since the match is an instant return before any market growth.
Worked example
On a $70,000 salary contributing 10% ($7,000/yr) with a 50%-up-to-6% match ($2,100/yr) and a $25,000 starting balance, 30 years at 7% projects to about $1,130,000 — roughly $210,000 your money, $63,000 employer match and the rest growth.
Frequently asked questions
What does “50% match up to 6%” mean?
The employer adds 50 cents for every $1 you contribute, but only on contributions up to 6% of your salary. Contribute 6% and you get the full 3%-of-salary match; contribute less and you leave part of it unclaimed.
How much can I contribute?
For 2024 the employee 401(k) limit is $23,000, or $30,500 if you are 50 or older. Employer match does not count toward that employee limit.
Should I always contribute up to the match?
Almost always — an unmatched match is a guaranteed loss. The usual order is: contribute enough to get the full match, pay down high-interest debt, then invest more.
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This is an educational estimate, not financial advice. Confirm figures with your lender, advisor or tax professional.