Calculate your projected 401(k) balance at retirement. Enforces 2026 IRS limits ($24,500 standard, $32,500 catch-up, $35,750 super catch-up), audits your employer match, and breaks down your per-paycheck contribution.
Use this calculator to see your projected retirement balance, calculate your exact per-paycheck deduction, and verify you are capturing 100% of your employer's matching dollars.
Cashing out a 401(k) early triggers income taxes plus a 10% penalty. Calculate the real cash you keep.
Net cash received after taxes and penalties
Starting in 2027, the IRS replaces the Saver's Credit with a direct government deposit match of up to 50% ($1,000 max).
First $2,000 contributed qualifies for the 50% federal match ($1,000 max).
At your estimated MAGI, you qualify for the full 50% match.
The IRS sets maximum limits on how much you can contribute each calendar year. These limits apply across both Traditional and Roth 401(k) accounts combined.
| Age Bracket | 2026 Contribution Limit |
|---|---|
| Under 50 | $24,500 |
| Age 50 to 59 (Standard Catch-Up) | $32,500 |
| Age 60 to 63 (Super Catch-Up) | $35,750 |
| Age 64+ (Standard Catch-Up) | $32,500 |
| Combined Employee + Employer Cap | $72,000 |
Source: IRS Notice 2025-67. SECURE 2.0 super catch-up rules apply to workers aged 60 through 63.
An employer match is earned compensation. If your employer offers a 50% match on contributions up to 6% of your salary, contributing 6% gives you an instant 50% return before market growth begins.
To understand the common traps that cost workers thousands, read our editorial on The 401(k) Match Traps Nobody Talks About.
If you carry high-interest credit card debt, the correct Stage 2 move is:
| Feature | Traditional 401(k) | Roth 401(k) |
|---|---|---|
| Contribution Tax Treatment | Pre-tax (Lowers taxable income today) | After-tax (No current-year tax deduction) |
| Retirement Withdrawals | Taxed as ordinary income | 100% tax-free (including all capital growth) |
| Best Fit For | Earners in their peak earning years wanting tax breaks now | Earners early in their careers expecting higher future tax brackets |
Increasing your 401(k) contribution reduces take-home pay. Make sure your housing and living expenses remain protected. Track your paycheck cash flow with the Beelinger Budget app.
The standard limit is $24,500 for individuals under 50. Workers aged 50 and older can contribute an additional $8,000 catch-up ($32,500 total). Workers aged 60 through 63 qualify for the SECURE 2.0 super catch-up limit of $35,750.
Always contribute at least enough to capture your full company match. Beyond the match, aim to save 15% of your gross income across your 401(k) and Roth IRA, provided you have paid off high-interest consumer debt.
A true-up is an annual employer reconciliation. If you max out your 401(k) early in the year and stop contributing, an employer without a true-up stops matching. An employer with a true-up calculates your full annual match and deposits the difference at year-end.
Starting with 2027 tax returns filed in 2028, the federal government deposits up to a 50% match (up to $1,000 per person) directly into your retirement account for eligible low-to-moderate-income workers, replacing the non-refundable Saver's Credit.