401(k) Contribution Calculator
Maximize your 401(k). See exactly how much your employer match adds, your tax savings, and your projected retirement balance.
Marginal rate: 22%
What Is a 401(k)?
A 401(k) is a tax-advantaged retirement savings plan sponsored by your employer. You contribute pre-tax dollars (traditional) or after-tax dollars (Roth), and the money grows tax-deferred until withdrawal.
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2026 Contribution Limits
| Type | Limit | |------|-------| | Employee (under 50) | $23,500 | | Employee (age 50+, catch-up) | $31,000 | | Combined (employee + employer) | $70,000 |
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The Power of Employer Match
Employer matching is the single best return available in personal finance — it is an immediate 50–100% return on every matched dollar. Always contribute at least enough to capture the full employer match before investing anywhere else.
Example: $80,000 salary, 50% match up to 6%
- Your contribution: $4,800/year (6% of salary)
- Employer match: $2,400/year (50% of $4,800)
- Total invested annually: $7,200 — for a $4,800 out-of-pocket cost
Tax Savings
Traditional 401(k) contributions reduce your W-2 income dollar-for-dollar. At a 22% marginal rate, a $10,000 contribution saves $2,200 in federal income tax in the current year.
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Compounding Over Time
Time is your most powerful variable. A 30-year-old contributing $10,000/year with 50% employer match ($15,000 total) at 7% annual return accumulates:
| Age | Balance | |-----|---------| | 40 | ~$207,000 | | 50 | ~$612,000 | | 60 | ~$1,510,000 | | 65 | ~$2,140,000 |
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the 401(k) contribution limit for 2026?
A: The IRS 2026 401(k) employee contribution limit is $23,500. If you are age 50 or older, you can contribute an additional $7,500 catch-up contribution for a total of $31,000. Employer contributions bring the combined limit to $70,000.
Q: Should I contribute to a traditional or Roth 401(k)?
A: Traditional 401(k) contributions reduce your taxable income now — best if you expect to be in a lower tax bracket in retirement. Roth 401(k) contributions are after-tax — best if you expect higher taxes later. Many plans allow splitting between both.
Q: What does "50% match up to 6%" mean?
A: Your employer contributes 50 cents for every dollar you put in, on up to 6% of your salary. On an $80,000 salary, the first 6% you contribute ($4,800) earns a $2,400 employer match. Always contribute at least enough to get the full match — it is an immediate 50–100% return.
Q: Can I lose money in a 401(k)?
A: Yes. A 401(k) is an investment account; its value rises and falls with the market. However, because contributions are pre-tax and you get employer matching, your effective cost basis is much lower. Long-term (20+ year) investors have historically seen positive returns despite market downturns.
Official Sources & Authority References
Important Disclaimer
This calculator provides estimates for informational purposes only and does not constitute tax, legal, or financial advice. Tax laws change annually — verify figures with IRS.gov or consult a qualified tax professional before making financial decisions.
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