Retirement Calculator
A retirement calculator projects a future account balance by compounding current savings and regular monthly contributions at an expected annual rate of return until a target retirement year. Monthly compounding of both the existing balance and new contributions models how most retirement accounts actually grow, since each contribution starts earning returns from the month it is made rather than waiting until the end of the year — a materially different result from compounding annually over a long time horizon.
Educational estimate only. Results are not medical, legal, or financial advice. Confirm important decisions with a qualified professional.
How it works
- Enter your current savings and planned monthly contribution.
- Enter an expected average annual return and years until retirement.
- Read the projected balance, total contributed, and investment growth.
Formula Monthly compounding of savings plus an ordinary annuity of monthly contributions
Frequently asked questions
What return rate should I use?
A long-run diversified stock/bond portfolio has historically averaged roughly 5–8% annually after inflation varies; use a conservative estimate, not a single good year.
Does this account for inflation?
No — the projection is in today’s dollars only if your return rate is already inflation-adjusted (a "real" return); otherwise it is in future, non-adjusted dollars.
Does this include employer match?
Include employer match in your monthly contribution figure to project the combined total.
Is compounding monthly accurate for a 401k?
It is a close, standard approximation — most retirement accounts effectively compound at least monthly through reinvested returns.
Is this financial advice?
No. It is an educational projection based on assumptions you control — actual returns vary and can be negative in any given year.