◆ CALCULATOR
Retirement / 401(k)
Project your nest egg, and see how much of it is growth, not just what you put in.
Try an example
Projected Nest Egg at Age 65
$1,465,168
Your Contributions
$235,000
Employer Match
$63,000
Investment Growth
$1,167,168
| x | Balance |
|---|---|
| Age 31 | $34,909 |
| Age 32 | $45,535 |
| Age 33 | $56,929 |
| Age 34 | $69,147 |
| Age 35 | $82,247 |
| Age 36 | $96,295 |
| Age 37 | $111,359 |
| Age 38 | $127,511 |
| Age 39 | $144,831 |
| Age 40 | $163,403 |
| Age 41 | $183,318 |
| Age 42 | $204,672 |
| Age 43 | $227,570 |
| Age 44 | $252,123 |
| Age 45 | $278,451 |
| Age 46 | $306,682 |
| Age 47 | $336,955 |
| Age 48 | $369,415 |
| Age 49 | $404,223 |
| Age 50 | $441,546 |
| Age 51 | $481,568 |
| Age 52 | $524,482 |
| Age 53 | $570,499 |
| Age 54 | $619,843 |
| Age 55 | $672,754 |
| Age 56 | $729,489 |
| Age 57 | $790,326 |
| Age 58 | $855,561 |
| Age 59 | $925,512 |
| Age 60 | $1,000,519 |
| Age 61 | $1,080,949 |
| Age 62 | $1,167,193 |
| Age 63 | $1,259,672 |
| Age 64 | $1,358,836 |
| Age 65 | $1,465,168 |
Past 50 you can contribute extra (catch-up). Check current IRS limits.
How to use this calculator
- Enter your current and target retirement ageThe gap is your years of compounding.
- Add your balance, contribution, and employer matchAlways contribute enough to capture the full match, it's free money.
- Set an expected returnAbout 6–7% is a common long-run assumption for a diversified portfolio.
Retirement saving rewards two habits above all: starting early and capturing every dollar of the employer match. Over a long career, compounding growth usually dwarfs the total you personally contribute.
◆ Frequently Asked Questions
How much should I contribute to my 401(k)?
At a minimum, contribute enough to capture the full employer match, since that match is an immediate return on your money. Beyond that, many people aim for 10% to 15% of pay, including the match.
Why does the employer match matter so much?
It is money your employer adds when you contribute, often 50% or 100% up to a limit. It is part of your pay, so not capturing the full match leaves guaranteed money on the table.
What return rate should I assume?
About 6% to 7% per year is a common long-run assumption for a diversified portfolio. Returns vary widely year to year, so treat the projection as a planning estimate, not a promise.
Should I choose a traditional or Roth 401(k)?
A traditional 401(k) lowers your taxes now and is taxed when you withdraw. A Roth is funded with after-tax money and grows tax-free. Roth often favors younger savers who expect higher income later.
Keep reading
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What Is Marginal Tax Rate?
The tax rate paid on your last dollar of income. Understanding marginal rate is critical for financial planning.
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Estate and Gift Tax Planning: A Working Guide to Passing Wealth Without Waste
Understand estate and gift tax planning: current exemptions, step-up in basis, trusts, and strategies to preserve wealth and honor your wishes.
◆ TAX & RETIREMENT
Self-Employment Tax: What It Costs You, How to Calculate It, and How to Cut It
Self-employment tax runs 15.3% on 92.35% of your net profit. Here is how it works, when to pay it, and how to legally reduce the bill.