401(k) Max-Out Calculator

How this calculator works

The 401(k) is the highest-leverage account most workers have: pre-tax contributions cut this year's tax bill, growth compounds tax-deferred, and the employer match is an instant 50–100% return. Yet most people contribute far below the IRS limit ($24,500 for 2026 if you are under 50) and many do not even contribute enough to capture the full match. This 401(k) calculator answers three questions: how much are you putting in per year, how much free match money are you collecting, and what does it all grow into by retirement at your assumed return.

The priority order is simple and worth memorizing. First, contribute enough to get the entire employer match, skipping it is turning down a raise. Second, consider maxing the account ($24,500) if cash flow allows, especially in high-earning years when the tax deduction is most valuable. Third, direct overflow savings to an IRA or HSA. The tax-savings line shows what your contributions save you this year at your marginal rate, money that effectively funds part of the contribution itself. And the projection chart makes the cost of waiting visceral: every year you delay maxing out can cost six figures at retirement thanks to compounding.