Free · 4% rule · Projection
Retirement
Calculator
See your projected savings and retirement income — and whether you are on track for the lifestyle you want.
Savings projection
4% rule income
On-track check
Advertisement
Your retirement plan
Retirement spending
Your projection
Projected savings at retirement (age 65)
$1,346,000
with $500/mo + 7% return
4% rule income
$53,840
+ Pension
$71,840
Your goal
$40,000
✓ On track — projected income exceeds your goal.
To hit your goal: save $850/month (current $500).
Advertisement
Time beats timing
The earlier you start, the less you need to save. $500/month at 7% for 40 years grows to $1.3M — time is your best friend.
The 4% rule
Withdrawing 4% of your portfolio yearly is historically safe for ~30 years. It turns savings into retirement income.
Inflation is the enemy
A 7% nominal return is about 4–5% real. Plan for higher expenses in the future or assume returns after inflation.
Advertisement
FAQ
Retirement FAQ
How much do I need to retire?
A common rule: aim for savings of 25× your annual retirement expenses. With the 4% rule, that funds about 30 years. This calculator shows your projected savings and any gap.
What is the 4% rule?
Withdrawing 4% of your portfolio each year (adjusted for inflation) is historically considered safe for ~30-year retirements. At $500,000 saved, that is $20,000/year.
What return should I assume?
A reasonable long-term assumption for a diversified portfolio is 6–8% nominal (about 4–5% after inflation). Use 7% for a middle-ground projection.
Do I include Social Security or a pension?
Yes — pension and Social Security income reduces the amount you must withdraw from savings. Enter your expected annual pension income in the calculator.
How much should I save each month?
The general advice is 15% of gross income, including any employer match. The calculator also tells you the exact monthly amount needed to reach your goal.
Is compound interest really that powerful?
Yes. Investing $500/month at 7% for 40 years grows to over $1.3 million, of which only $240,000 came from contributions. Time in the market is the biggest factor.
What if I start saving late?
You need to save more each month, but it is still worth starting. The calculator shows the required contribution — starting at 40 beats starting at 50.
How accurate is this calculator?
It is a projection based on your assumptions, not a guarantee. Returns, inflation and market volatility vary. Recalculate yearly and adjust your plan.