Retirement Calculator
Will your savings last? See what you need at retirement, what you are on track to have and how much more to save.
Returns and inflation
Returns are not guaranteed: investments can fall in value. The calculator assumes a constant return every year.
How the calculator works
- Your savings and monthly contributions grow until retirement at the return you enter.
- The income you want is raised by inflation to retirement and then every year after.
- The calculator works out the lump sum needed to pay that income until the age you plan for, while the rest keeps earning the retirement return.
Example: at 35 with $30,000 saved and $500 a month, a 6% return until 67 gives about $753,779. For $2,000 a month in today’s money until 90 (2.5% inflation, 4% return in retirement) you would need about $1,034,726 — an extra $251 a month closes the gap.
The 4% rule
A common rule of thumb: withdrawing 4% of your savings in the first year, then adjusting for inflation, has historically lasted about 30 years in US studies. It is a guide, not a guarantee.
Social Security and pensions
The calculator only covers your own savings. Subtract the Social Security or pension income you expect from the income you want, and enter the difference.
Frequently asked questions
How much do I need to retire?
Enough to pay the income you want for as many years as you plan for. The calculator works it out from your income, inflation and expected returns.
What is the 4% rule?
Withdraw 4% of your savings in the first year of retirement and increase it with inflation; historically this lasted about 30 years.