Retirement Calculator
Project your retirement savings
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Retirement Readiness
Note: This calculator is for illustrative purposes only and does not constitute financial advice. Actual returns may vary based on market conditions. Social Security estimates are simplified and actual benefits depend on your complete earnings history. The 4% withdrawal rate is based on the Trinity Study but may need adjustment based on your circumstances.
How to Use the Retirement Calculator
Plan for your financial future by projecting how much you'll have saved at retirement. Enter your current age, savings, monthly contributions, and expected return to see your projected retirement nest egg and potential monthly income.
Key Assumptions
- Expected Return: Historical stock market average is 7-10% annually
- Withdrawal Rate: The 4% rule suggests withdrawing 4% annually for a 30-year retirement
- Inflation: Consider that purchasing power decreases over time
The Power of Compound Interest
Starting early is crucial. Money invested in your 20s has decades to compound, potentially growing to many times the original amount. Use our compound interest calculator to visualize growth over different time periods. Learn proven strategies in our Guide to Maximizing Compound Interest.
Related Financial Tools
Calculate your take-home pay to determine how much you can contribute. If you have debt, use our debt payoff calculator to balance savings with debt reduction. For budgeting guidance, read Smart Budgeting with Financial Calculators.
Retirement Savings Guidelines
- Aim to save 10-15% of income for retirement
- Maximize employer 401(k) matches—it's free money
- Consider tax-advantaged accounts (401k, IRA, Roth IRA)
- Increase contributions whenever you get a raise
Frequently Asked Questions
A common rule is 25x your annual expenses for a 30-year retirement (the 4% rule). If you spend $50,000/year, aim for $1.25 million. Adjust for desired lifestyle, healthcare costs, and expected Social Security income.
Save 10-15% of your income including employer matches. Starting at 25, saving 10% should provide a comfortable retirement. Starting later requires higher percentages. Use our calculator to find your specific target based on goals.
Withdraw 4% of your retirement savings the first year, then adjust for inflation annually. This strategy historically provides income for 30 years without depleting savings. More conservative planners use 3-3.5% for longer retirements.
You can retire when investments generate enough income to cover expenses. Social Security starts at 62 (reduced) or 67 (full). Medicare begins at 65. Use our calculator to determine when your savings will support your desired lifestyle.
401k is employer-sponsored with higher limits ($23,000 in 2024) and potential employer match. IRAs are individual accounts with lower limits ($7,000) but more investment options. Both offer tax advantages; Roth versions provide tax-free withdrawals.
After 50, contribute catch-up amounts ($7,500 extra to 401k, $1,000 extra to IRA in 2024). Maximize employer matches, reduce expenses, delay retirement, or plan for part-time work. Even a few extra years of saving and growth helps significantly.