401(k) Retirement Calculator
Project your 401(k) balance at retirement based on contributions, employer match, and expected returns.
How this 401(k) projection works
This calculator simulates your 401(k) balance month by month from now until your chosen retirement age. Each month, it adds your contribution (as a percentage of your current salary), your employer's match (dollar-for-dollar up to the match percentage you set), and applies your expected investment return to the growing balance. Once a year, your salary grows by your expected raise percentage, which also grows your contribution and match in dollar terms over time.
Why employer match is essentially free money
If your employer matches 100% of your contributions up to 4% of salary and you're only contributing 2%, you're leaving half of the available match on the table — money your employer would otherwise give you. As a rule of thumb, most financial planners suggest contributing at least enough to capture the full employer match before prioritizing other savings goals.
Understanding the assumptions
This model assumes a constant contribution percentage, a steady annual raise, and a constant average investment return — real markets fluctuate year to year, and actual returns will vary. Treat the projected balance as a rough long-term estimate, not a guarantee, and revisit it periodically as your salary and goals change.
Frequently asked questions
What return rate should I assume?
Many long-term retirement projections use 6–8% as a historical average for a diversified stock-heavy portfolio, though your actual allocation, fees, and market conditions will affect real results. Consider running this calculator with a couple of different rates to see a range of outcomes.
Does this account for contribution limits?
No — the IRS sets an annual dollar limit on employee 401(k) contributions that changes each year. If your contribution percentage times your salary would exceed that year's limit, your actual contributions (and any match tied to them) would be capped in reality.
What's the difference between a traditional and Roth 401(k)?
Traditional 401(k) contributions are pre-tax now and taxed on withdrawal in retirement; Roth 401(k) contributions are taxed now and grow tax-free. This calculator models the account balance growth, which works the same way mechanically for either type.
Should I include Social Security in my retirement planning?
This calculator focuses solely on your 401(k) balance. Social Security, pensions, other retirement accounts (like an IRA), and taxable savings should also factor into a complete retirement income plan.