401(k) & Retirement Calculator
Project Your Retirement Savings 📈 | Roth vs Traditional | RMD | Employer Match | 2026 IRS Limits
📈 401(k) Growth Projector
What is a 401(k) Calculator?
A 401(k) calculator helps you project your retirement savings growth based on your current age, salary, contribution rate, employer match, and expected investment returns. It's an essential tool for retirement planning — showing you whether you're on track to meet your retirement goals.
This comprehensive retirement suite includes five powerful calculators: 401(k) projection, Roth vs Traditional comparison, RMD calculation, employer match maximizer, and retirement income sustainability — all updated for 2026 IRS limits.
2026 IRS 401(k) & Retirement Limits
| Limit Type | 2026 Amount |
|---|---|
| Standard 401(k) Contribution | $24,500 |
| Catch-up Contribution (Age 50+) | +$8,000 ($32,500 total) |
| Enhanced Catch-up (Age 60-63) | +$11,250 ($35,750 total) |
| Roth IRA Contribution Limit | $7,500 ($8,600 for Age 50+) |
| RMD Start Age | 73 (born 1953 or later) |
How to Use This 401(k) Calculator Suite
- Use 401(k) Projector to see how your savings grow over time.
- Compare Roth vs Traditional based on your current vs retirement tax bracket.
- Calculate RMDs if you're age 73+ or planning ahead.
- Use Employer Match Maximizer to ensure you're not leaving free money on the table.
- Estimate Retirement Income using the 4% rule and Social Security.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the 4% rule for retirement withdrawals?
The 4% rule suggests withdrawing 4% of your retirement portfolio in the first year of retirement, then adjusting for inflation annually. It's designed to make your savings last 30 years.
Should I choose Roth or Traditional 401(k)?
If you expect to be in a higher tax bracket in retirement, Roth is better (pay taxes now). If you expect lower taxes in retirement, Traditional is better (deduct now, pay later).
What is a good 401(k) balance by age?
Fidelity recommends: 1x salary by 30, 3x by 40, 6x by 50, 8x by 60, and 10x by 67.
What happens if I don't take my RMD?
The IRS penalty for missing an RMD is 25% of the amount you should have withdrawn (or 10% if corrected within 2 years).
💡 Pro Tip: Always contribute at least enough to get the full employer match — it's an immediate 50-100% return on your investment. Then consider maxing out Roth IRA before increasing 401(k) contributions beyond the match.