457(b) Calculator
Project 457(b) balance and contribution percentage by retirement.
- Last reviewed
- August 26, 2026
- Cost
- Free to use
- Data
- Runs in your browser
- Reviewed by
- Anton Jonson
Total 457B at Retirement
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Total Contributions
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Contribution % of Salary
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Growth
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Methodology
How this calculator handles inputs
This calculator uses the values you enter above and applies the formula explained in the guide below. Results update in the browser and are intended for quick planning, comparison, and sanity-checking.
- Use consistent periods, currencies, and units across inputs.
- Review any assumptions before using the result in a decision.
- Recalculate when rates, prices, tax rules, or business terms change.
Important note
This tool provides general planning information only. It is not tax, legal, financial, accounting, or investment advice. Check the current rules for your location and speak with a qualified professional before making a high-stakes decision.
Guide
How it works
Use this calculator to project a 457(b) retirement balance and contribution percentage by retirement age.
What this calculator does
The 457(b) calculator estimates how current balance and annual contributions may grow over time. It also shows the annual contribution as a percentage of salary.
It uses:
- current age and retirement age
- current 457(b) balance
- annual salary and contribution
- expected annual return
457(b) Formula
FV = P(1 + r)^n + PMT × (((1 + r)^n - 1) / r)
Where:
- P = current 457(b) balance
- PMT = annual contribution
- r = expected annual return
- n = years until retirement
Example calculation
If:
- Current balance = 40,000
- Annual contribution = 15,000
- Salary = 100,000
- Expected return = 7%
Then:
- Contribution percentage = 15%
- Current balance compounds
- Annual additions compound
- Final value depends on years to retirement
The 457(b) balance grows from ongoing contributions and return.
What is a 457(b)?
A 457(b) is a deferred compensation retirement plan often available to state and local government employees and some non-profit workers. It has rules that differ from 401(k) and 403(b) plans.
Why 457(b) planning matters
- estimates deferred compensation growth
- helps set annual contribution levels
- supports public-sector retirement planning
- can complement other accounts
When to use this calculator
- projecting a 457(b) balance
- checking contribution rate
- planning public-sector retirement
- comparing workplace accounts
Common mistakes
- confusing 457(b) and 403(b) limits
- ignoring plan-specific rules
- assuming employer contributions apply
- overlooking withdrawal rules
457(b) vs 403(b)
A 457(b) is deferred compensation. A 403(b) is a retirement plan common in schools and non-profits.
Some workers may have access to both.
FAQs
What is a 457(b)?
A 457(b) is a deferred compensation retirement plan for certain government and non-profit employees.
How do you calculate 457(b) growth?
Project current balance and annual contributions forward with expected compound return.
What is a good 457(b) contribution?
A good contribution fits your budget and retirement target while staying within plan limits.
What is the difference between 457(b) and 403(b)?
They are separate workplace plans with different rules and eligibility.
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