Retirement Savings Calculator
Determine exactly how much you need to save monthly to reach your financial goal. Features "Latte Factor" analysis and Catch-up logic.
Define Goal
e.g. Coffee, Snacks
Monthly Savings Needed
$0.00
Without Latte Factor
$0.00
You could save this much less per month if you cut the daily waste.
About
While standard retirement calculators project where you might end up, this tool solves the inverse problem: establishing the precise monthly output required to hit a specific target. This is the cornerstone of goal-based investing.
It includes a Latte Factor visualization, demonstrating how small, daily discretionary expenses compound over decades to delay retirement. The calculation utilizes the Payment (PMT) function from financial mathematics.
savings rate
fire movement
budgeting
financial goals
Formulas
The required monthly saving (PMT) is derived from the Future Value formula:
PMT = FV − PV(1 + r)n(1 + r)n − 1r
Note: r is the monthly interest rate (annual/12) and n is the total number of months.
Reference Data
| Age Range | Standard 401(k) Limit (2025) | Catch-Up Contribution | Total Tax-Advantaged |
|---|---|---|---|
| Under 50 | $23,500 | 0 | $23,500 |
| 50 - 59 | $23,500 | $7,500 | $31,000 |
| 60 - 63 | $23,500 | $11,250 | $34,750 |
Frequently Asked Questions
Coined by financial author David Bach, it illustrates how small daily spends (like a $5 coffee), if invested instead, can grow into substantial sums ($100k+) over 30 years due to compound interest.
You have three levers: increase the time horizon (retire later), increase expected return (riskier portfolio), or lower the final goal amount.
This tool highlights if your required savings exceed standard IRS contribution limits. If you are over 50, "Catch-Up" limits are applied, allowing you to tax-shelter more income.