401k Calculator – Employer Match & Retirement Growth Projection
Calculate how much your 401k will grow with employer matching contributions. See the powerful effect of your employer match — free money that compounds alongside your own contributions — and project your total retirement balance.
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401k Retirement Projection
Your Annual Contribution
$8,000
Employer Match
$2,400
Total Annual Addition
$10,400
Years to Growth
25 years
Projected Balance: $657,790
Your contributions: $200,000 | Employer match: $60,000 | Investment growth: $397,790
401k Calculator FAQs
How much should I contribute to my 401k?
Contribute at least enough to get the full employer match (free money). Beyond that, aim for 15-20% of your pre-tax income including the match. The 2026 contribution limit is $23,500 (under 50) or $31,000 (50+). If you can max it out, do it — the tax advantages are powerful.
What is the 401k employer match and how does it work?
A common match is 50% of your contributions up to 6% of salary. If you earn $80,000 and contribute 6% ($4,800), your employer adds $2,400. This is free money — never leave it on the table. Some employers offer dollar-for-dollar matches or safe harbor contributions.
Traditional vs Roth 401k: which is better?
Traditional: tax deduction now, pay taxes in retirement. Roth: pay taxes now, tax-free withdrawals later. Choose Traditional if you expect to be in a lower tax bracket in retirement. Choose Roth if you expect higher brackets later or want tax-free growth. Many people split contributions between both.
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