401(k) Calculator 2026
Project your retirement balance with 2026 IRS limits, employer match, and SECURE 2.0 super catch-up
Use this 401(k) calculator to project your retirement balance with the 2026 IRS contribution limits, employer matching, and the SECURE 2.0 super catch-up for workers aged 60–63. The 4% rule projection shows how much monthly income your balance will support in retirement.
e.g. 50 = 50% match
e.g. 6 = match applied on first 6% of salary
401(k) Calculator — Frequently Asked Questions
What is the 401(k) contribution limit for 2026?
The employee elective deferral limit is $24,500 for 2026 (up from $23,500 in 2025). Workers aged 50-59 and 64+ can add a $8,000 catch-up contribution ($32,500 total). Workers aged 60-63 can use the SECURE 2.0 super catch-up of $11,250, giving a total of $35,750. The combined employee + employer limit (§415(c)) is $72,000.
What is the SECURE 2.0 super catch-up for ages 60-63?
Starting in 2025, workers aged exactly 60, 61, 62, or 63 can contribute $11,250 in catch-up contributions instead of the standard $8,000 for other 50+ employees. This means the total deferral limit is $35,750 for this age group — one of the most underused provisions in retirement planning.
How does employer 401(k) matching work?
A common formula is "50% match on contributions up to 6% of salary." If you earn $80,000 and contribute 6% ($4,800), your employer adds $2,400. Always contribute at least enough to capture the full employer match — it is the highest guaranteed return available. Note: employer matching is calculated on salary up to $360,000 (the 2026 §401(a)(17) compensation cap).
What is the difference between a Traditional and Roth 401(k)?
Traditional 401(k) contributions are pre-tax — you reduce your taxable income now, but pay income tax on withdrawals in retirement. Roth 401(k) contributions are after-tax — you pay tax now but all growth and withdrawals are tax-free. Roth accounts have no required minimum distributions (RMDs) from 2024 onwards. Choose Traditional if your tax rate is higher now than it will be in retirement; choose Roth if your rate is lower now.
What is the 4% rule for retirement income?
The 4% rule suggests you can withdraw 4% of your portfolio in year one of retirement, then adjust for inflation each year, with high historical confidence the portfolio lasts 30 years. To find the portfolio you need: multiply your desired annual income by 25. For example, $60,000/yr income requires $1,500,000. Morningstar's 2025 research recommends 3.9% for new retirees.
What happens if I withdraw from my 401(k) early?
Withdrawing before age 59½ triggers a 10% early withdrawal penalty plus ordinary income tax on the amount. A $50,000 withdrawal could cost $20,000+ in combined taxes and penalties. Exceptions include substantially equal periodic payments (SEPP), disability, and certain qualified distributions. Always exhaust other options before early withdrawal.
When must I start 401(k) withdrawals (RMDs)?
Traditional 401(k) holders must begin required minimum distributions (RMDs) at age 73. Missing an RMD triggers a 25% excise tax on the missed amount. Roth 401(k)s have no RMDs from 2024 onwards. If you are still working past 73, you can delay RMDs from your current employer's plan.
Quick Tips
2026 IRS Limits
- • Employee deferral (under 50): $24,500
- • Catch-up (age 50–59, 64+): $32,500
- • Super catch-up (age 60–63): $35,750
- • Combined limit (§415(c)): $72,000
- • Compensation cap: $360,000
Key Rules
- • Early withdrawal penalty: 10%
- • RMDs start at age 73 (Traditional)
- • Roth 401k: no RMDs from 2024
Results are projections based on constant inputs. Actual returns vary. Consult a financial adviser for personalised advice.