Retirement Calculator
Will you have enough to retire comfortably? Calculate your savings trajectory and see how much you can safely withdraw each month.
Est. Monthly Income: $0
The 4% Rule Explained
The 4% rule is the most widely-used retirement withdrawal strategy. Based on historical market data, it states that you can withdraw 4% of your portfolio in the first year of retirement, then adjust for inflation each year, with a high probability of not running out of money for 30 years.
💰 Quick Math
Retirement savings needed = Annual expenses × 25
If you spend $50,000/year → You need $1,250,000 saved
If you spend $80,000/year → You need $2,000,000 saved
Retirement Savings Benchmarks by Age
Use these benchmarks to see if you're on track (based on 1x-10x annual salary):
| Age | Savings Target | If Salary = $100K |
|---|---|---|
| 30 | 1x salary | $100,000 |
| 40 | 3x salary | $300,000 |
| 50 | 6x salary | $600,000 |
| 60 | 8x salary | $800,000 |
| 67 | 10x salary | $1,000,000 |
Behind on Savings? Catch-Up Strategies
Maximize 401(k) Contributions
In 2026, you can contribute up to $23,500 to a 401(k). If you're 50+, add an extra $7,500 in catch-up contributions for a total of $31,000.
Open an IRA
Contribute up to $7,000/year to a Traditional or Roth IRA ($8,000 if 50+). Roth IRAs offer tax-free growth and withdrawals in retirement.
Delay Retirement
Working 2-3 extra years has a huge impact: more savings, more growth, fewer withdrawal years. Social Security also increases ~8% per year you delay past 62.
Reduce Expenses
Lowering annual expenses by $10,000 means you need $250,000 less saved (using the 25x rule). Consider retiring in a lower cost-of-living area.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much do I need to retire comfortably?
Most experts recommend replacing 70-80% of your pre-retirement income. Using the 4% rule, multiply your desired annual income by 25. For $60,000/year retirement income, save $1.5 million.
Should I contribute to Traditional or Roth 401(k)?
Traditional: Tax deduction now, pay taxes when you withdraw. Best if you expect lower tax rates in retirement.
Roth: No deduction now, but tax-free withdrawals. Best if you expect higher taxes later or want flexibility.
What return rate should I assume?
For long-term planning, use 6-7% (inflation-adjusted) or 9-10% (nominal). The S&P 500 has historically returned ~10% before inflation. Be conservative— it's better to over-save than under-save.