401(k) Max Out Calculator (2026 and 2027)
Want to hit the 401(k) limit exactly, without going over or stopping your employer match early? Enter your salary, pay schedule and what you have already put in. The calculator tells you the dollar amount and percentage to set for each remaining paycheck.
401(k) limits
| 2026 (official) | 2027 (projected) | |
|---|---|---|
| Employee contribution limit | $24,500 | $25,500 |
| Catch-up, age 50+ | $8,000 | $8,500 |
| Super catch-up, ages 60 to 63 | $11,250 | $11,750 |
| Total at 50+ | $32,500 | $34,000 |
| Total at 60 to 63 | $35,750 | $37,250 |
| Roth catch-up wage threshold | $150,000 | $155,000 |
2026 figures: IRS Notice 2025-67. 2027 figures are a projection (Milliman, July 2026); the IRS usually announces the official numbers in November.
Per paycheck to max out from January (single limit, no catch-up)
Watch out for the match
Some employers match each paycheck separately. If you max out by September, you get no match for the last months unless your plan has a "true-up." Spreading contributions evenly over the year, as this calculator does, protects your full match.
New Roth catch-up rule
Starting in 2026, if your Social Security (FICA) wages from your employer were over $150,000 in the previous year, any catch-up contributions must be Roth (after-tax). Your regular $24,500 can still be pre-tax.
How this calculator works
Your limit is the base limit plus the catch-up for your age. It subtracts what you already contributed and divides the rest by the paychecks left. The percentage is that amount divided by your gross pay per paycheck. The match estimate uses the percentage you would set, up to the employer's cap.
FAQ
What is the 401(k) limit for 2026?
$24,500 for employees. If you are 50 or older you can add $8,000, or $11,250 if you are 60 to 63.
What will the 2027 401(k) limit be?
Projections point to about $25,500. The IRS usually announces the official limit in November.
Does the employer match count toward my limit?
No. The $24,500 limit is only for your own contributions. Employer money has a separate, higher total limit.
What happens if I go over the limit?
Excess contributions must be taken out by April 15 of the next year, or they can be taxed twice. Most payroll systems stop automatically at the limit.
Who gets the super catch-up?
People who turn 60, 61, 62 or 63 during the year, if their plan allows it.
Rules and rates last checked: October 2026. This is an estimate for general information only, not financial, tax or legal advice. Check IRS.gov or a tax professional before you file.