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Retirement Savings Calculator
Enter your current age, monthly contribution, and expected return to estimate your retirement nest egg at age 65.
Maximize Your Retirement Savings
- Get the full employer match — Not contributing enough to get the full match? You’re leaving free money on the table
- Max out tax-advantaged accounts — 2026 limits: $23,500 for 401(k), $7,000 for IRA ($8,000 if 50+)
- Choose low-cost index funds — Fees compound just like returns. A 1% fee difference can cost you hundreds of thousands over 30 years
- Increase contributions annually — Raise your contribution by 1% each year to painlessly build wealth
401(k) vs IRA vs Roth IRA
| Feature | Traditional 401(k) | Traditional IRA | Roth IRA |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2026 Contribution Limit | $23,500 | $7,000 | $7,000 |
| Tax on Contributions | Pre-tax (deductible) | Pre-tax (deductible) | After-tax |
| Tax on Withdrawals | Taxed as income | Taxed as income | Tax-free |
| Employer Match | Yes | No | No |
| Required Min. Distribution | Yes (age 73) | Yes (age 73) | No |
| Best For | High earners now | No employer plan | Expect higher taxes later |
FAQ
Q: What is the 4% rule? The 4% rule suggests withdrawing 4% of your retirement savings in the first year, then adjusting for inflation each year. Studies show this rate is sustainable for a 30-year retirement.
Q: What return should I expect? The S&P 500 has returned roughly 10% annually over the last 30 years before inflation. A 7% estimate is conservative after accounting for inflation and fees.
Q: When should I start saving for retirement? As early as possible. Starting at 25 vs 35 with the same monthly contribution can result in nearly double the final amount due to compound interest.
Recommended Next Steps
- See your investment growth — Use our Compound Interest Calculator to model different scenarios
- Create a monthly budget — Use our Budget Planner to find more money to invest
- Calculate your take-home pay — Know what you’re working with. Try our Salary Calculator
- Pay off debt first? — Use our Loan Repayment Calculator to compare payoff vs investing
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Plan your path to financial independence → FIRE Calculator