403(b) Calculator (US)
Calculate your US 403(b) retirement savings with employer matching contributions. Three growth scenarios with yearly projections for nonprofit and government employees.
About This Calculator
A 403(b) plan is a powerful retirement savings vehicle for employees of US nonprofit organizations, public schools, hospitals, religious institutions, and government agencies. Also known as a Tax-Sheltered Annuity (TSA) plan, the 403(b) offers tax-deferred growth and often includes employer matching contributions to help you build retirement savings.
Our 403(b) calculator projects your retirement balance under three investment scenarios: a conservative estimate (5% annual return), a moderate scenario based on your expected return, and an aggressive projection (12% return). The calculator considers your annual salary, contribution percentage, employer match, current balance, and years until retirement to model year-by-year growth.
Key Features of 403(b) Plans:
- Pre-tax contributions reduce your current taxable income
- Tax-deferred growth until retirement withdrawal
- Employer matching provides free additional retirement savings
- High contribution limits ($24,500 in 2026; $32,500 for ages 50+)
- 15-year service catch-up for long-term employees ($3,000 extra annually)
- Roth 403(b) option for tax-free withdrawals in retirement
- Portable via rollover when changing employers
Tips for Maximizing Your 403(b):
- Contribute enough to earn the full employer match
- Increase contributions when you receive raises
- Consider target-date funds for automatic diversification
- Use the Roth 403(b) option if you expect higher taxes in retirement
- Never cash out when changing jobs — roll over instead
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a 403(b) plan?
A 403(b) plan is a retirement savings plan designed for employees of US nonprofit organizations, public schools, hospitals, religious organizations, and government agencies. Like a 401(k), it offers tax-deferred growth and often employer matching contributions. Contributions are made through payroll deductions, and earnings grow tax-free until withdrawal in retirement.
How does a 403(b) differ from a 401(k)?
The main difference is eligibility — 403(b) plans are for nonprofit and government employees, while 401(k) plans are for for-profit employees. 403(b) plans can only offer mutual funds and annuities as investment options, whereas 401(k) plans typically offer broader investment choices. Additionally, 403(b) participants with 15+ years of service at a qualified organization may be eligible for an extra $3,000 annual catch-up contribution.
What are the 403(b) contribution limits?
For 2026, the 403(b) employee contribution limit is $24,500 (or $32,500 for ages 50+ with catch-up; $35,750 for ages 60-63 under SECURE 2.0). The total contribution limit including employer match is $72,000 (or $80,000 with catch-up). Participants with 15+ years of service at a qualified organization may contribute up to an additional $3,000 per year, up to a lifetime maximum of $15,000.
When can I withdraw from my 403(b) without penalty?
You can withdraw from a 403(b) without penalty starting at age 59½. Withdrawals before 59½ are subject to a 10% early withdrawal penalty plus income tax. Exceptions include disability, substantial medical expenses, or qualifying hardship withdrawals. Required minimum distributions (RMDs) must begin at age 73.
Is a 403(b) pre-tax or after-tax?
Traditional 403(b) contributions are pre-tax, reducing your taxable income in the year you contribute. Withdrawals in retirement are taxed as ordinary income. Many plans also offer a Roth 403(b) option where contributions are made with after-tax dollars, allowing tax-free withdrawals in retirement including all investment earnings.
Can I have both a 403(b) and an IRA?
Yes, you can contribute to both a 403(b) and an IRA in the same year. The 403(b) contribution limits are separate from IRA contribution limits. If your income exceeds certain thresholds, your traditional IRA contributions may not be tax-deductible if you have access to a workplace retirement plan like a 403(b).
What happens to my 403(b) when I change jobs?
When leaving a job, you can leave the 403(b) with your former employer, roll it over to a new employer's 403(b) or 401(k), roll it into an IRA, or cash out (not recommended due to taxes and penalties). Rolling over preserves the tax advantages and keeps your savings growing for retirement.
How much should I contribute to my 403(b)?
Aim to contribute at least enough to receive the full employer match if available — this is free money toward your retirement. Financial experts typically recommend saving 10-15% of your income for retirement, including any employer match. The 403(b) calculator shows three scenarios to help you evaluate different contribution rates and returns.