How much should I contribute to my 401(k)?

At minimum, enough to capture the full employer match — that's a guaranteed 100% return on the matched portion. A common rule of thumb is 10-15% of gross income total (including the match). The 2026 IRS limit is $24,500 for under-50, with a $7,500 catch-up at 50+.

What return rate should I assume?

Long-run US stock returns have averaged about 10% nominal / 7% real (after inflation). The calculator defaults to 7% and lets you adjust. Use lower numbers if you hold a meaningful bond allocation.

Should I do Roth 401(k) or Traditional 401(k)?

Traditional reduces this year's taxable income (you pay tax in retirement). Roth pays tax now and grows tax-free. Roth tends to win if you expect to be in a higher tax bracket in retirement, or for younger savers with decades of compounding. Many people split.

What happens if I don't get an employer match?

The 401(k) is still useful for the tax advantages, but with no match, max out a Roth IRA first (lower fees, more investment choices) before going back to fund the 401(k) beyond the IRS limit.

401(k) Calculator

Project your 401(k) balance at retirement with your contribution rate, employer match, salary growth, fees, and historical return assumptions. Free, sourced, no signup.

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