Plan your retirement savings and see how much you'll have
Retirement planning is one of the most important financial decisions you'll make. Starting early and contributing consistently can make the difference between a comfortable retirement and financial stress in your golden years.
Compound interest is often called the "eighth wonder of the world" for good reason. When you invest money, you earn returns not just on your original investment, but also on the accumulated interest from previous periods. This creates exponential growth over time.
Example: Investing $500/month at 7% annual return for 35 years can grow to over $1 million, even though you only contributed $210,000.
Financial experts recommend saving:
Historical average returns vary by investment type:
Our calculator uses 7% as a default, representing a moderate growth portfolio. Adjust this based on your investment strategy and risk tolerance.
401(k): Employer-sponsored plan with potential matching contributions. Contribution limit: $23,500 in 2026.
IRA (Traditional or Roth): Individual retirement account with tax advantages. Contribution limit: $7,000 in 2026.
SEP IRA: For self-employed individuals. Higher contribution limits based on income.
Tip: Always contribute enough to your 401(k) to receive the full employer match — it's free money!