457(b) Calculator

Calculate 457(b) deferred compensation plan growth. No early withdrawal penalty.
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Last 3 Years Catch-Up?

Projected 457(b) Balance

$461,843.62

Growth

$281,843.62

457(b) Details

Annual Contribution$7,000.00
Contribution Limit$24,500.00
No Early Withdrawal PenaltyYes (457 advantage)
Projected Balance$461,843.62

Use the 457(b) Calculator above to calculate your results. Enter your values and see instant results — all calculations run in your browser.

Disclaimer: This calculator is for informational purposes only and does not constitute tax, financial, or legal advice. Results are estimates based on the information you provide and current rates. Always consult a qualified tax professional or financial advisor for advice specific to your situation.

How It Works

Our 457(b) Calculator helps you project the potential growth of your deferred compensation plan, a powerful retirement savings tool for government and some non-profit employees. Understanding this growth is crucial for retirement planning, especially considering the 2026 contribution limit for most participants is projected to be $23,500, with an additional catch-up contribution of $7,500 for those aged 50 and over (totaling $31,000).

This calculator employs a compound interest formula: A = P(1 + r/n)^(nt). Here, A is the future value of the investment, P is the principal investment amount (initial balance + annual contributions), r is the annual interest rate, n is the number of times that interest is compounded per year, and t is the number of years the money is invested. We assume annual contributions are made at the beginning of each year for simplicity and maximum compounding effect.

Remember, the 'no early withdrawal penalty' feature of the 457(b) applies to withdrawals made after separation from service, regardless of age, making it uniquely flexible. However, withdrawals are subject to ordinary income tax. Be mindful of investment fees, as they can significantly erode long-term growth, and always consider your risk tolerance when selecting investment options within your plan.

Example: Projecting Growth for a New 457(b) Saver

  1. 1 Initial 457(b) Balance: $0. Annual Contribution: $23,500 (2026 projected limit). Annual Rate of Return: 7%. Years to Grow: 25. Compounding Frequency: Annually.
  2. 2 Year 1: $23,500 * (1 + 0.07)^1 = $25,145. Subsequent years add the annual contribution to the previous year's balance before compounding.
  3. 3 After 10 years, with consistent contributions and growth, the estimated balance would be approximately $350,000.
  4. 4 After 25 years, this 457(b) plan, with a $0 initial balance, $23,500 annual contributions, and a 7% annual return, is projected to grow to approximately $1,570,000, illustrating the immense power of consistent saving and compounding over time.

Source: IRS · Last updated: April 2026

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the advantage of a 457(b) over a 401(k)?
The biggest advantage of a governmental 457(b) is no 10% early withdrawal penalty regardless of age. When you separate from your employer, you can access funds without penalty. This makes it valuable for early retirees.
Can I contribute to both a 457(b) and a 403(b)?
Yes, if your employer offers both. Each plan has its own separate $24,500 limit (2026), so you could defer up to $49,000 combined plus any applicable catch-up contributions. This is a powerful savings strategy for government and nonprofit employees.
What is the 457(b) contribution limit for 2026?
The standard limit is $24,500. The catch-up for ages 50+ is $7,500. The special 457(b) three-year catch-up allows up to $49,000 per year in the three years before normal retirement age, if you have unused prior-year limits.

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