See what steady 403(b) contributions can grow to by retirement.
A 403(b) calculator projects the future value of your 403(b) retirement account from your current balance, contributions, time horizon, and expected return.
A 403(b) is a tax-advantaged retirement plan for employees of public schools, universities, hospitals, and other nonprofits, the sector's equivalent of a 401(k). Contributions are typically pre-tax, lowering current taxable income, and the money grows tax-deferred until withdrawal. Many plans offer an employer match worth capturing.
The two biggest levers are how much you contribute and how long it compounds, more than the exact return. Raising your contribution rate as your income grows, and starting early, do the heavy lifting. Because contributions are pre-tax, increasing them lowers your take-home by less than the full amount.
A tax-advantaged retirement plan for employees of nonprofits, schools, and hospitals, similar to a 401(k), with pre-tax contributions and tax-deferred growth.
They're very similar in tax treatment and limits; 403(b)s are offered by nonprofits and public employers, while 401(k)s are offered by for-profit companies.
Yes, an employer match is free money and one of the best returns available. Contribute at least enough to earn the full match.
See the exact formula and a worked example on our methodology page.