Is $20,000 in Super Good at 45?

See how $20,000 compares to the average, your projected retirement balance, and what to do next.

Last verified: 1 July 2025

Behind

With $20,000 in super at age 45, you are 88% below the average ($167,000) and 78% below the median ($91,850).

Your Balance

$20K

Average at 45

$167K

Median at 45

$91.8K

ASFA Target

$690K

Projected Balance at 67

Projected at 67

$617,870

Gap to ASFA Comfortable

-$72,130

Assumes 7% annual return, 12% employer SG on $90,000 salary,22 years to retirement.

How to Close the Gap

Extra Contribution Needed

To reach $690,000 by age 67, you need to contribute an extra $1,472/year ($123/month) on top of employer SG.

Tax Savings from Salary Sacrifice

Salary sacrificing $1,472/year saves approximately $287/year in tax. Super contributions are taxed at 15% vs your marginal rate of up to 34.5%.

Contribution Caps

Concessional cap: $30,000/year
Non-concessional cap: $120,000/year
Carry-forward available if balance under $500,000

Frequently Asked Questions

Is $20,000 in super good at 45?

At age 45, $20,000 in super is behind. The average balance is $167,000 and the median is $91,850. Your balance is 88% below the average.

How much more super do I need at 45?

Based on your current balance of $20,000, your projected balance at 67 is $617,870, which is $72,130 short of the ASFA Comfortable standard. You'd need to contribute an extra $1,472/year to close this gap.

Should I salary sacrifice at 45?

Salary sacrificing $1,472/year could save you approximately $287 in tax annually while boosting your super. This is because super contributions are taxed at 15% vs your marginal rate. The concessional cap is $30,000/year including employer contributions.

Other Balances at 45

$0 $10K $30K $50K $75K $100K $150K $200K

$20K at Other Ages

Age 25 Age 30 Age 35 Age 40 Age 50 Age 55 Age 60 Age 65

General information and estimates only — not financial, tax, or legal advice. Always verify with a licensed adviser or the ATO.

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