How the Retirement Savings Calculator works
A retirement target is a scenario, not a prediction. This calculator asks what recurring contribution would be needed if current savings and future deposits grew at the selected constant rate.
Method: The target's present shortfall is solved using compound growth of current savings and monthly contributions.
Inputs to review
- Current retirement savings: Use a realistic current value and test a conservative alternative.
- Target balance: Use a realistic current value and test a conservative alternative.
- Estimated annual return: Use a realistic current value and test a conservative alternative.
- Years until retirement: Use a realistic current value and test a conservative alternative.
How to interpret the result
Run conservative, central, and optimistic return cases. Also revisit the target for inflation, expected spending, pensions, Social Security, taxes, healthcare, and the length of retirement.
Assumptions and limitations
Returns, inflation, and contribution capacity vary. This tool does not determine a safe withdrawal rate or replace a full retirement-income plan.
Recalculate when rates, balances, income, goals, or time horizons change. A useful estimate is a range built from several plausible scenarios, not a single precise-looking number.