Decision Library
What Does a Career Break Actually Cost Me?
The lost salary during a career break is obvious — the paused SIPs and EPF contributions that stop compounding are the part most people underestimate.
Run the Numbers
Calculate Your Own Scenario
Wealth gap at retirement
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Contributions paused during the break
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How the Gap Changes With Returns
| Scenario | Return | Wealth gap at retirement |
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Scenarios
How This Usually Plays Out
- A short, planned break (a few months) with SIPs resumed promptly — the long-term wealth gap is usually manageable.
- A multi-year break with no continued investing at all — the compounding lost over the following decades can be larger than the break itself suggests.
Risks & Exceptions
When the Normal Advice Doesn't Apply
- This only measures the financial gap — many career breaks are necessary regardless of the number (health, caregiving, further study).
Decision Framework
How to Actually Decide
- Run the real gap through the calculator above before deciding how to structure the break.
- If possible, keep at least a partial SIP running through the break, even a reduced amount.
- Plan explicitly for how you'll ramp contributions back up once you resume working.
This page is for educational purposes only and does not constitute financial advice. Figures are illustrative and vary based on your individual circumstances, lender policies, and market conditions. Always consult a certified financial advisor before making major financial decisions.