How the projection is calculated
The calculator compounds current savings monthly from the annual return assumption and adds monthly contributions. It also shows an inflation-adjusted estimate by discounting the nominal result using the entered inflation assumption.
Example
A 35-year-old with $25,000 saved who contributes $500 per month until age 67 will see a very different projection at 3%, 5% or 7% annual return. The inflation-adjusted number helps compare the future balance with today's purchasing power.
Common mistakes
Do not rely on one return assumption. Also avoid ignoring fees, taxes, inflation and country-specific retirement rules when using the result for serious planning.
Scenario guidance
Run at least three scenarios: a conservative return, your base case and a higher-inflation case. The spread between scenarios is often more useful than a single projected balance.
Assumptions and limitations
This does not include taxes, pension systems, public benefits, fees, investment risk, contribution limits, withdrawal rules or country-specific retirement law. Returns are not guaranteed.
References
- Investor.gov: financial tools and calculators, accessed 2026-05-13.
- OECD: Pensions at a Glance methodology context, accessed 2026-05-13.
Last reviewed: 2026-05-14