457(b) Plan Calculator (2026)
Governmental / tax-exempt 457(b) plans. 2026 elective deferral: $24,500. 457(b)s allow a separate "final 3-year" catch-up — this calc uses the standard cap.
Inputs
How it works
Monthly compounding · end-of-period contributions. 457(b) unique: no 10% early-withdrawal penalty after separation from service, and its cap is separate from a 401(k)/403(b) — you can max both.
Frequently asked questions
Is this guaranteed?
No — these are projections that assume your inputs hold. Real markets and life are variable.
What's the 4% safe-withdrawal rule?
The Trinity Study suggests withdrawing 4% of a balanced portfolio in year one and adjusting for inflation typically lasts 30+ years.
Should I max out my 401(k)?
At minimum, capture the full employer match — that's free money. Beyond that, balance against debt payoff and emergency reserves.
Roth vs. Traditional?
Roth wins if you'll be in a higher tax bracket in retirement; Traditional wins if you'll be in a lower bracket.
When should I start saving?
Immediately. The single biggest variable in retirement success is years of compounding.