In short
This calculator projects how your savings could grow until you retire, then shows what they are worth in today's money and the monthly income they could pay. Change the contribution, return or retirement age to see what makes the biggest difference.
How the projection works
Your current savings and monthly contributions grow at the expected return until retirement. Because prices rise, the result is also shown in today's money, adjusted for inflation.
The withdrawal rate turns savings into income. A 4% rate is a common starting point: take 4% of the pot in the first year, then adjust for inflation.
Worked example
At 30, with 20,000 saved and 500 a month at a 7% return, you could have about 1,130,650 at 65. You would put in 230,000, including the 20,000 you already have; the other 900,650 is growth.
With 3% inflation that is about 401,814 in today's money. A 4% withdrawal gives 3,769 a month, or about 1,339 in today's money.
Start early
Time does most of the work. Start the same plan at 40 instead of 30 and you would have about 519,544 at 65, less than half, even though you only contribute 60,000 less.
Keep the estimate realistic
Returns vary from year to year, and fees and taxes reduce them. Use a cautious return, review your plan every year, and include any pension or state benefits you expect on top.
Frequently asked questions
What return should I use?
Something cautious for your mix of investments, after fees and before inflation (inflation is entered separately). Many plans use 5–7% a year for a stock-heavy portfolio and less for bonds or cash. Try a few rates to see the range.
What is the 4% rule?
A rule of thumb from studies of US market history: withdrawing 4% in the first year, then raising it with inflation, lasted at least 30 years in almost every period studied. Results in other countries' markets were weaker. It is a guide, not a guarantee.
Why show today's money?
A million in 35 years will buy much less than a million today. Deflating by inflation shows what the pot would feel like now.
Does it include pensions or social security?
No. Add any guaranteed income you expect to the monthly income shown.
Methodology
Savings and contributions (made at the end of each month) grow at the expected return, compounded monthly (r/12). Today's money = future value ÷ (1 + inflation)^years. Monthly income = savings × withdrawal rate ÷ 12. Values are rounded for display only.
This calculator gives estimates for information only and is not financial advice. Investment returns are not guaranteed and can be negative.
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