This projects a 401(k) balance forward, combining your own contribution, an employer match up to its stated cap, and compound growth over time.
How it works
Your contribution and the employer match are combined into a monthly contribution stream and grown using the same compounding this site’s future-value calculator documents. The match applies to whichever is smaller — your actual contribution rate or the employer’s stated cap.
The match is free money left on the table if your rate is too low
A common match structure — 50% of contributions up to 6% of salary — pays nothing extra if you contribute less than 6%, and caps at that same amount no matter how much more you contribute beyond it. Contributing below the full match percentage is functionally declining part of your own compensation. This calculator shows the match’s own dollar value separately, so it isn’t buried inside one combined total.
This is an illustration, not a forecast
It assumes a constant contribution rate, salary and return for the entire projection. Real salaries grow, real market returns vary year to year rather than compounding smoothly, and contribution limits are adjusted annually by the IRS. Treat the result as showing how matching and compounding interact, not a prediction of an actual future balance.
How to use this calculator
- Enter your salary and contribution percentage.
- Enter your employer’s match percentage and cap.
- Enter your current balance, expected return and years to retirement.
Frequently asked questions
What does “50% match up to 6%” actually mean?
For every dollar you contribute, up to 6% of your salary, your employer adds 50 cents — contribute exactly 6% and you get the maximum match; contribute more and the extra doesn’t earn additional match; contribute less and you get proportionally less match.
Should I always contribute at least up to the match cap?
Contributing below it means leaving part of your compensation unclaimed — a widely cited piece of advice, though your own full financial picture (emergency savings, higher-interest debt) is a broader consideration this calculator doesn’t weigh.
Why doesn’t this calculator account for annual contribution limits?
IRS contribution limits change periodically and depend on your age and other factors — this calculator computes the mechanics of matching and compounding for whatever contribution amount you enter, rather than trying to enforce a limit that could be out of date by the time you read this.
Does salary growth over time matter?
Yes, in reality — a rising salary would increase both your contribution and the match amount over time, which this simplified constant-salary projection doesn’t capture.
Is 7% a realistic expected return?
It’s a commonly used illustrative figure, not a guarantee — actual returns depend on your specific investment mix and vary considerably year to year. Adjust it to whatever assumption you find reasonable for your own portfolio.
