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Math of Money

Retirement Calculators

Project your 401(k) balance with an employer match, compare a Roth to a Traditional IRA, estimate your Social Security benefit at different claiming ages, or check whether your savings will actually last through retirement.

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Frequently asked questions

How much should I contribute to my 401(k)?

At minimum, enough to get the full employer match — it's an immediate return no investment can match. The 401(k) calculator shows the long-run cost of leaving match money on the table.

What's the difference between a Roth and Traditional IRA?

Traditional contributions are tax-deferred now and taxed on withdrawal; Roth contributions are taxed now and grow tax-free. The Roth IRA calculator compares both paths against your expected tax rates.

At what age should I claim Social Security?

Benefits grow roughly 6–8% for each year you delay between 62 and 70. The Social Security calculator estimates your monthly benefit at several claiming ages so you can compare.

How much do I need saved to retire comfortably?

It depends on your expected spending, other income, and how long your savings need to last. The Retirement Planner projects whether your current savings rate gets you there.

Does the retirement calculator account for inflation?

Yes — you can set an assumed inflation rate, and results are shown in both future and today's dollars so the numbers stay meaningful.

What return rate should I assume for my investments?

A common starting point is 6–7% annually for a diversified stock/bond portfolio after inflation, but you can adjust the assumption to match your own allocation.