How to Calculate Pension Calculator
What is Pension Calculator?
A defined benefit (DB) pension pays a guaranteed monthly income in retirement, calculated from your salary, years of service, and an accrual rate set by your employer. Unlike 401(k) plans, the investment risk is borne by the employer, not the employee.
Step-by-Step Guide
- 1Annual pension = Final salary × Years of service × Accrual rate
- 2Example: $80,000 salary × 25 years × 1.5% = $30,000/year
- 3Monthly pension = Annual pension / 12
- 4Replacement rate = Annual pension / Pre-retirement salary
- 5Most advisors recommend replacing 70–80% of pre-retirement income
Worked Examples
Input
$80,000 salary, 30 years, 2% accrual
Result
$48,000/year ($4,000/month)
100% replacement if salary unchanged
Input
$60,000 salary, 20 years, 1.5% accrual
Result
$18,000/year ($1,500/month)
30% replacement rate — supplement needed