401k Calculator
Plan your retirement savings and see how your 401k could grow with employer matching and compound interest
Annual contribution: $6,000
401k Tips & 2024 Limits
2024 Contribution Limits
- Employee contribution limit:$23,000
- Catch-up contribution (50+):$7,500
- Total limit (50+):$30,500
Optimization Tips
- • Always contribute enough to get full employer match
- • Consider increasing contributions with salary raises
- • Take advantage of catch-up contributions after age 50
- • Review and rebalance your investment allocation annually
- • Consider Roth 401k for tax diversification
How to Use the 401k Calculator
Our 401k calculator helps you plan for retirement by projecting how your 401k savings could grow over time with your contributions, employer matching, and investment returns. Here's how to use it:
Enter your current age and planned retirement age
Add your current salary and expected growth rate
Set your contribution percentage and employer match details
See your projected retirement balance and monthly income
Understanding Your 401k
A 401k is an employer-sponsored retirement savings plan that allows you to contribute pre-tax dollars, reducing your current taxable income while building wealth for retirement. Many employers offer matching contributions, which is essentially free money toward your retirement.
Strategies to Maximize Your 401k
Get the Full Employer Match
Always contribute enough to receive your full employer match. This is free money with an immediate 100% return on investment. If your employer matches 50% of contributions up to 6% of salary, contribute at least 6%.
Increase Contributions Gradually
Start with what you can afford and increase your contribution percentage annually, especially when you receive raises. Many plans offer automatic escalation features to make this easier.
Take Advantage of Catch-up Contributions
If you're 50 or older, you can contribute an additional $7,500 in 2024 (total of $30,500). This catch-up provision helps you accelerate savings as you approach retirement.
Consider Roth 401k Options
If your employer offers a Roth 401k option, consider splitting contributions between traditional and Roth to diversify your tax situation in retirement.
2024 401k Contribution Limits
Standard Limits
Planning Tips
- • Contribute at least enough to get full employer match
- • Consider maxing out contributions if possible
- • Use catch-up contributions if you're behind on savings
- • Review and adjust contributions annually
- • Don't forget about IRA contributions for additional savings
Important 401k Rules and Considerations
Withdrawal Rules
- •Early withdrawal penalty of 10% before age 59½ (with some exceptions)
- •Required minimum distributions (RMDs) start at age 73
- •Some plans allow loans up to 50% of balance or $50,000
- •Hardship withdrawals may be available for specific circumstances
Tax Considerations
- •Traditional 401k contributions reduce current taxable income
- •Withdrawals in retirement are taxed as ordinary income
- •Roth 401k contributions are made with after-tax dollars
- •Roth withdrawals in retirement are generally tax-free
Frequently Asked Questions
How much should I contribute to my 401k?
At minimum, contribute enough to get your full employer match. Ideally, aim for 10-15% of your income including employer contributions. If you can't afford that much initially, start with what you can and increase gradually.
Should I choose traditional or Roth 401k?
Traditional 401k is better if you expect to be in a lower tax bracket in retirement. Roth 401k is better if you expect higher taxes in retirement or want tax-free withdrawals. Many people benefit from splitting contributions between both.
What happens to my 401k if I change jobs?
You can typically roll your 401k into your new employer's plan, roll it into an IRA, leave it with your former employer (if balance is over $5,000), or cash it out (not recommended due to taxes and penalties).
How should I invest my 401k contributions?
Consider target-date funds for a hands-off approach, or build a diversified portfolio with low-cost index funds. Generally, younger investors can afford more aggressive (stock-heavy) allocations, while those closer to retirement should be more conservative.
Can I access my 401k money before retirement?
Early withdrawals before age 59½ typically incur a 10% penalty plus income taxes. Some exceptions exist for hardships, and many plans allow loans. However, it's generally best to leave your 401k untouched until retirement.
Disclaimer
This 401k calculator is provided for informational and estimation purposes only. While we strive to keep our calculations accurate and up-to-date, laws and regulations change frequently, and individual situations can vary significantly. The results should not be considered as financial or tax advice.
NexusCalc does not guarantee the accuracy of calculations and is not responsible for any errors or omissions. Rates and rules may have changed since our last update. Please consult with a qualified professional before making financial decisions based on these calculations.
By using this 401k calculator, you acknowledge that you are using the information at your own risk and that NexusCalc shall not be liable for any damages or losses resulting from your reliance on the information provided.
Last updated: November 2025