401k Contribution Limit Calculator
See how much you can put into your 401k this year, what that means per paycheck, and how much tax you could save.
What we noticed
Year by year
How this calculator works
Your limit depends on your age. Under 50 it is the base limit. From 50 you can add a catch-up amount, and from 60 to 63 the catch-up is higher. We work out your limit, how much you plan to save, and how much room is left.
We also show what you would save from each paycheck to reach the limit, and a rough estimate of the tax you could save with pre-tax contributions at your tax bracket.
Your employer's match does not count toward your own limit, but your own plus employer money together are capped at a higher yearly amount.
2026 limits
| Your own contributions (under 50) | $24,500 |
|---|---|
| Extra catch-up, age 50 and over | + $8,000 |
| Extra catch-up, ages 60 to 63 (instead of the 50+ amount) | + $11,250 |
| Most you plus your employer can add (not counting catch-up) | $72,000 |
| IRA limit (for comparison) | $7,500, plus $1,100 if 50 or older |
Frequently asked questions
What is the 401k contribution limit for 2026?
You can put in up to $24,500 of your own pay. If you are 50 or older you can add $8,000 more, and if you are 60 to 63 you can add $11,250 more instead.
Does my employer match count toward the limit?
No. Your match does not count toward your own limit. Your own plus employer money together are capped at $72,000, not counting catch-up.
What if I work two jobs with a 401k?
The employee limit applies to you across all your 401k plans, not to each plan. Keep track of the total you put in across jobs.
What is the Roth catch-up rule?
From 2026, if your Social Security (FICA) wages from the employer that sponsors your plan were over $150,000 in the previous year, your catch-up contributions have to be made as Roth contributions.