How much do you need to retire?
This calculator projects your 401(k) or retirement savings to your retirement age, including your contributions, your employer's match and decades of compound growth. The estimated monthly income uses the well-known 4% rule — a common guideline for how much you can safely withdraw each year.
Tips to retire with more
- Always contribute enough to get your full employer match — it's free money.
- Start early: a decade of compounding can beat a much bigger balance started late.
- Increase your contribution by 1% a year — you'll barely notice it.
Frequently asked questions
What is the 4% rule?
A guideline that says you can withdraw about 4% of your retirement savings in the first year (then adjust for inflation) with a low chance of running out over ~30 years.
What return should I assume?
A diversified stock-heavy portfolio has historically averaged ~7% per year after inflation over the long run, but returns vary and aren't guaranteed.
Is the employer match really free money?
Yes — if your employer matches 50% of your contributions, that's an instant 50% return before any market growth. Always capture the full match if you can.
Calculations use steady contributions and return assumptions.