401(k) contribution calculator
How much to set aside from each paycheck to reach the 2026 or 2027 401(k) limit, including catch-ups and the Roth catch-up rule.
- Your limit, including any catch-up
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- Catch-up you qualify for
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- Still to contribute
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- Share of each paycheck
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- Catch-up that must be Roth
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- Employer match for the year
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Point at any line to see what it means.
What this is actually calculating.
The 401(k) limit is a yearly dollar amount, but you contribute a little from each paycheck. This takes the limit for the year you choose, adds the catch-up your age allows, subtracts anything already contributed, and spreads the rest across the paychecks you have left.
It also checks the newer rule for higher earners: if last year's wages from this employer were above the threshold, your catch-up contributions have to go in as Roth, so they no longer lower your taxable pay.
The parts that decide the answer.
Catch-ups by age
From the year you turn 50 you can add a catch-up. In the years you turn 60, 61, 62 or 63 the catch-up is larger, and it replaces the regular one rather than adding to it. Not every plan offers the larger amount.
The Roth catch-up rule
It looks at last year's FICA wages from the employer sponsoring the plan, the figure in box 3 of your W-2. If your plan does not offer Roth, someone over the threshold cannot make catch-ups at all.
One limit across jobs
The deferral limit is per person, across every 401(k) and 403(b) you contribute to in the year. If you change jobs, count what you deferred at the first one.
The match
Employer matching is shown for reference and does not count against your deferral limit. Many plans calculate the match each paycheck, so spreading contributions across the year can matter.
Before you rely on it.
What is the 401(k) limit for 2027?
$25,500 of employee deferrals, plus an $8,500 catch-up from age 50, or $11,750 in the years you turn 60 to 63. For 2026 the figures are $24,500, $8,000 and $11,250.
Do I have to raise my contribution each year?
Usually. If you elected a percentage of pay, it will not rise with the limit by itself. Set the new amount before your first paycheck of the year.
What if I have already contributed more than the limit?
Ask your plan for a corrective distribution of the excess by April 15 of the following year; otherwise it can be taxed twice.
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