401(k) Contribution Calculator
Maximize your 401(k) by modeling employee deferrals plus employer matching. The 2026 elective deferral limit is $24,500 ($32,500 with age 50+ catch-up). Employer match is effectively free compensation.
Educational estimate. Calculator results are for planning and information only, not financial, tax, medical, legal, or engineering advice. Verify important decisions with official sources or a qualified professional.
401(k) Contribution Calculator
Employer Match & Retirement Projection
📐 Formula & Method
Employer Match
Most plans match a percentage of contributions up to a salary cap.
Total Annual Savings
2026 elective deferral limit: $24,500.
📋 How to Use
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1
Enter salary and your contribution percentage.
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2
Set employer match rate and cap.
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3
Add current balance, return, and years.
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4
Click Calculate.
🔬 Methodology & Accuracy
Formula: Computes employee deferral and employer match from salary percentages, caps at IRS elective deferral limit, and projects balance with annual compounding.
Data sources: IRS 2026 retirement plan limits: https://www.irs.gov/retirement-plans/plan-participant-employee/retirement-topics-401k-and-profit-sharing-plan-contribution-limits
Last reviewed: June 2026 · General formula used: Employer Match · Accuracy: Results are precise to two decimal places using IEEE-754 double-precision arithmetic. Intended for educational and planning use only.
For informational purposes only. Results are estimates based on the inputs and formulas provided. For financial, tax, medical, or legal decisions, consult a qualified professional. Rates and regulations change — always verify current figures with official sources.