Defined Benefit Pension Calculator (US)
Estimate a traditional DB pension using the standard formula: benefit = final avg salary × service years × multiplier.
Inputs
How it works
Benefit = FAS × service × multiplier. E.g. FAS $85k × 25 yr × 2% = $42,500/yr. Real DB plans use "high-3" or "high-5" salary averaging and may add early-retirement reductions.
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.