457(b) Value

See what steady 457(b) contributions can grow to by retirement.

Your numbers

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Projected balance

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A 457(b) is a tax-deferred plan for government and some nonprofit employees, notably without the early-withdrawal penalty after separation. Assumes a constant return.
About this calculator

457(b) Value

A 457(b) calculator projects the future value of your 457(b) deferred compensation account from your balance, contributions, time horizon, and return.

What makes a 457(b) distinctive

A 457(b) is a tax-deferred retirement plan for state and local government workers and some nonprofit employees. Its standout feature is that, unlike a 401(k) or 403(b), withdrawals after you leave the employer generally aren't subject to the 10% early-withdrawal penalty, which adds flexibility for early retirees.

Using it well

Like other tax-deferred plans, contributions are typically pre-tax and grow untaxed until withdrawal. The keys to growth are the contribution rate and time. Some workers with access to both a 457(b) and a 403(b) can contribute to each, effectively doubling their tax-advantaged room, worth exploring if you can afford it.

How to use it

  1. Enter your current 457(b) balance.
  2. Add your monthly contribution.
  3. Set years to retirement and expected return.
  4. See the projected balance and growth.

Frequently asked questions

What is a 457(b)?

A tax-deferred retirement plan for government and some nonprofit employees, with pre-tax contributions and tax-deferred growth.

What's special about a 457(b)?

Withdrawals after you separate from the employer generally avoid the 10% early-withdrawal penalty that applies to 401(k)s and 403(b)s.

Can I contribute to both a 457(b) and a 403(b)?

Often yes, if your employer offers both, letting you use each plan's limit separately. Check your plan rules.

See the exact formula and a worked example on our methodology page.

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