457(b) Calculator
Project your 457(b) balance with the 2026 IRS limit, catch-up contributions and the special three-year catch-up.
Balance at retirement
$681,738
- Your contributions
- $274,078
- Investment growth
- $347,660
- Your contribution this year
- $10,200
In 20 years your balance could reach about $681,738.00, if the return stays steady.
Calculation breakdown
| Step | Formula | Result |
|---|---|---|
| Your contribution this year | $85,000.00 × 12%, up to the IRS limit | $10,200 |
| Projected balance | 20 years of contributions growing at 6% a year | $681,738 |
How it works
Enter your age, balance, pay and contribution. Open the advanced options to use the special catch-up.
Worked example
Contributing 50% of a $500,000 pay for the last 3 years before a normal retirement age of 65, with the special catch-up on:
- Wanted each year: $250,000, far above any limit
- Allowed each year (ceiling): 2 × $24,500 = $49,000
- Over 3 years: $147,000 of contributions
Sources
Frequently asked questions
What is the 457(b) contribution limit for 2026?
The limit on employee contributions is $24,500 for 2026. Employees aged 50 or over can add $8,000, and those aged 60 to 63 can add $11,250 instead. Your plan may set a lower limit.
What is the special 457(b) catch-up?
In the three years before the plan's normal retirement age, a participant may contribute the lesser of twice the annual limit or the basic limit plus amounts not used in earlier years. It cannot be combined with the age 50 catch-up.
How does this calculator treat the special catch-up?
When you turn it on, it allows up to twice the 2026 limit, $49,000, in those three years. That assumes you have enough unused room, so treat it as the most you could contribute.
Do employer contributions count?
Yes. In a 457(b) plan, employer contributions count toward the same annual limit as yours. This calculator models only your own contributions.
What return should I use?
Returns vary from year to year, so there is no right answer. The 6% shown is an example. Try several to see a range.
A projection for information only, not investment or tax advice. Plan rules vary, so check your plan before relying on a catch-up.