Project the growth of your Traditional IRA balance based on your current savings, contributions, and expected return.
2025 IRA contribution limit (example)
An IRA calculator projects how your Individual Retirement Account balance could grow between now and retirement, based on your current balance, how much you contribute each year, and an assumed annual rate of return. IRAs are tax-advantaged retirement accounts available to most US workers, separate from any 401(k) or other employer-sponsored plan, and this calculator helps you see how steady contributions and compounding can build a retirement nest egg over time.
This calculator compounds monthly: each month, growth is calculated on the current balance at your expected rate of return, then one-twelfth of your annual contribution is added before the next month's growth is calculated. This repeats for every month between your current age and retirement age.
Formula: Balance = Balance × (1 + monthly rate) + monthly contribution, repeated each month, where monthly rate = annual return rate ÷ 12.
Example: Starting with a $10,000 balance at age 30, contributing $7,000 per year (2025 contribution limit example — check the current IRS limit) until retirement at 65, with a 7% expected annual return (example rate — enter your expected rate), grows to a projected balance made up of your starting amount, 35 years of contributions, and compound growth on top. (Note: all figures in this example are for illustration purposes only and do not represent guaranteed returns.)
A Traditional IRA allows eligible contributions to be tax-deductible in the year you make them, with the account growing tax-deferred — you pay ordinary income tax on withdrawals in retirement instead. For 2025, the contribution limit example is $7,000 for those under 50, with an additional catch-up contribution allowed for those 50 and older (check current IRS limits, as these are adjusted periodically). Withdrawals before age 59½ may incur a 10% early withdrawal penalty in addition to ordinary income tax, with certain exceptions, and Required Minimum Distributions (RMDs) generally begin at age 73 (2025 example — verify current rules, as RMD ages have changed in recent years).
The $7,000 default in this calculator reflects a 2025 example contribution limit for those under 50, with an additional catch-up amount typically allowed for those 50 and older. IRS contribution limits are adjusted periodically, so check the current limit for your situation.
A Traditional IRA may offer a tax deduction on contributions, with withdrawals taxed as ordinary income in retirement. A Roth IRA uses after-tax contributions, but qualified withdrawals in retirement are generally tax-free. This calculator projects account growth and doesn't distinguish the tax treatment of withdrawals.
The default 7% is an example only. Actual returns depend on what your IRA is invested in — stock funds, bond funds, target-date funds, and cash equivalents all have very different typical returns and risk levels.
Early withdrawals from a Traditional IRA before age 59½ are generally subject to ordinary income tax plus a 10% early withdrawal penalty, with certain exceptions (such as a first-time home purchase or qualifying medical expenses). This calculator doesn't account for early withdrawals or penalties.
Traditional IRAs generally require you to begin taking Required Minimum Distributions (RMDs) starting at age 73 (2025 example — verify current rules). Roth IRAs are generally not subject to RMDs during the original owner's lifetime.
No. This calculator projects the growth of your account balance only, based on contributions and an assumed rate of return. It doesn't factor in any tax deduction on contributions or taxes owed on withdrawals, which depend on the account type and your tax situation.
Disclaimer: The information, rates, contribution limits, and figures provided on this page are for educational and illustrative purposes only. All rates, limits, and examples shown are sample values and may not reflect current IRS rules or guaranteed investment returns. Financial rules and regulations change frequently. Always consult a qualified financial advisor or tax professional before making any financial decisions.