Retirement Calculator

Estimate how much you need to save for a comfortable retirement. See if you're on track and how to close any savings gap.

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18 yr70 yr
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50 yr80 yr
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$0$2,000,000
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$0$10,000
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1%15%
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0%8%
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$1,000$20,000

You have a savings gap

You need $414,416.57 more to meet your retirement income goal.

Retirement Projection (Today's Dollars)

Savings at Retirement$1,085,583.43
Target Savings Needed$1,500,000
Sustainable Monthly Income$3,618.61
Your Desired Income$5,000
All values shown in today's dollars (adjusted for inflation). Based on the 4% safe withdrawal rule.

Savings Trajectory

Planning for Retirement

Retirement planning is one of the most important financial exercises you can do. This calculator shows your projected savings trajectory, accounts for inflation, and tells you whether you're on track to meet your retirement income goals.

Retirement Savings by Age Benchmarks

Fidelity recommends saving these multiples of your salary:

  • Age 30 — 1x your annual salary saved
  • Age 40 — 3x your annual salary
  • Age 50 — 6x your annual salary
  • Age 60 — 8x your annual salary
  • Age 67 — 10x your annual salary

How to Close a Retirement Savings Gap

  • Increase contributions — Even 1-2% more per year makes a significant difference
  • Delay retirement — Working 2-3 more years gives compound interest extra time
  • Reduce retirement expenses — Downsizing or relocating can stretch savings further
  • Maximize catch-up contributions — Ages 50+ can contribute extra to 401(k) and IRA
  • Consider Social Security timing — Delaying benefits from 62 to 70 can increase monthly income by 77%

Understanding This Calculator

All values are shown in today's dollars (adjusted for inflation). This means the numbers reflect actual purchasing power, making them easier to understand. The calculator uses the "real return" (return minus inflation) for all projections.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much do I need to retire?
A common rule of thumb is to save 25 times your desired annual retirement income (the 4% rule). If you want $60,000/year in retirement, you need about $1.5 million. This calculator gives you a personalized estimate based on your specific situation.
What is the 4% rule?
The 4% rule suggests you can withdraw 4% of your retirement savings in the first year, then adjust for inflation each year, and your money should last at least 30 years. For example, with $1 million saved, you could withdraw $40,000 in year one.
When should I start saving for retirement?
As early as possible. Starting at 25 vs 35 can mean having twice as much at retirement due to compound interest. But it is never too late — starting at any age is better than not starting at all.
How much should I contribute to my 401(k)?
At minimum, contribute enough to get your full employer match (free money). Ideally, aim for 15% of your income including any employer match. The 2026 401(k) contribution limit is $24,000 (or $31,500 if you are 50+).
Should I save in a Roth or Traditional retirement account?
If you expect to be in a higher tax bracket in retirement, choose Roth (pay taxes now, withdraw tax-free). If you expect a lower tax bracket, choose Traditional (deduct now, pay taxes on withdrawal). Many experts suggest having both for tax diversification.

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