How to use the retirement calculator
- Enter your age, planned retirement age, current 401(k) balance and salary.
- Enter the percentage of salary you contribute and your employer match — for example, “50% match up to 6% of salary”.
- Adjust salary growth, expected investment return and inflation to test different scenarios.
2026 401(k) contribution limits
| Limit | 2026 |
|---|---|
| Employee contribution (under 50) | $24,500 |
| Catch-up contribution (age 50+) | + $8,000 |
| “Super” catch-up (ages 60–63) | + $11,250 (instead of $8,000) |
| Total employee + employer limit | $72,000 |
Source: IRS Notice 2025-67. The calculator automatically caps your contributions at these limits.
Always get the full employer match
An employer match is an instant, guaranteed return on your money. With a 50% match up to 6% of salary, contributing at least 6% means your employer adds another 3% of your pay. Contributing less leaves free money on the table — usually the first rule of retirement saving.
What return should I assume?
Over long periods, a diversified stock-heavy portfolio has historically averaged roughly 7–10% per year before inflation, with large ups and downs. Many planners use 5–7% to be conservative, and lower returns as you approach retirement and shift toward bonds. Past returns are not guaranteed.
How much income will it provide?
The 4% rule is a common starting point: withdrawing about 4% of your savings in the first year of retirement (then adjusting for inflation) has historically lasted around 30 years. The calculator shows this monthly income in today’s dollars so you can compare it with your current spending. Social Security, pensions and other savings come on top.
How much should I save?
- A common target is 15% of income including the employer match, starting in your 20s or early 30s.
- Starting later? Increase contributions by 1% each year or with every raise.
- See how compound growth works in detail with the compound interest calculator.
Frequently asked questions
What is the 401(k) limit for 2026?
$24,500 for employee contributions, plus an $8,000 catch-up from age 50, or $11,250 for ages 60–63.
How does an employer match work?
Your employer adds money based on what you contribute — for example 50 cents per dollar up to 6% of your salary.
What rate of return should I use?
Many people use 5–7% per year for long-term planning. Higher returns are possible but not guaranteed.
What is the 4% rule?
A guideline that withdrawing about 4% of your savings in the first year, then adjusting for inflation, has historically lasted about 30 years.