Mega Backdoor

Mega Backdoor Roth for Tech Employees

Some 401(k) plans (Google, Meta, Microsoft, Amazon) allow after-tax contributions plus in-plan Roth conversions — turning the $23K Roth limit into $69K.

The short answer

In 2026 the 401(k) employee limit is $23,000. The total 401(k) limit including employer match and after-tax contributions is $69,000. If your plan supports after-tax contributions AND in-service Roth conversions, you can pump up to $46,000 of after-tax money into a Roth 401(k) each year. Over a career this builds millions in tax-free retirement income.

Run the math yourself

These calculators give you the same numbers we used above — with your own inputs.

401(k) Contribution CalculatorProject the total 401(k) you can build.Compound Interest CalculatorModel $46K/year of tax-free growth.Capital Gains Tax CalculatorCompare against equivalent brokerage investing.

Bottom line

Check if your plan supports “after-tax contributions” and “in-plan Roth conversions” (or “in-service withdrawals”). If yes: max the $23K Roth 401(k), capture employer match, then add after-tax contributions to fill to $69K, and convert each pay period. Tech employees at FAANG-class employers should ask HR specifically about this.

Disclaimer. This is educational, not personalized financial advice. Numbers depend on your specific tax bracket, state, and goals. Verify with the IRS, SSA, or a CPA before acting. See our Financial Disclaimer.