Retirement Calculator
Plan your retirement with confidence. This calculator shows you how much you will have at retirement, how much you need, and whether you are on track. Enter your current savings, monthly contributions, and expected spending to see your personalized retirement projection. Calculate your FIRE number for early retirement planning.
retirement
How We Calculate This
This calculator uses compound growth projections with regular contributions. Retirement needs are calculated using the safe withdrawal rate (default 4%) to determine how much savings is required to generate your desired retirement income.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the 4% rule?
The 4% rule is a guideline suggesting you can withdraw 4% of your retirement savings annually without running out of money over a 30-year retirement. It is based on historical market performance and assumes a balanced portfolio of stocks and bonds.
What is a FIRE number?
Your FIRE (Financial Independence, Retire Early) number is typically 25 times your annual spending. This is the inverse of the 4% rule - if you have 25x your annual expenses saved, you can theoretically live off 4% withdrawals indefinitely.
How much do I need to retire?
The amount you need depends on your desired lifestyle, expected Social Security benefits, and withdrawal rate. A common target is having enough savings to replace 70-80% of your pre-retirement income. This calculator helps you determine your specific number.
What return should I expect?
The stock market has historically returned about 10% annually before inflation, or 7% after inflation. For planning purposes, 6-7% is a conservative estimate for a diversified portfolio. Bonds typically return 3-5%.
How does inflation affect my retirement?
Inflation erodes purchasing power over time. If inflation is 3%, something that costs $1,000 today will cost about $2,400 in 30 years. This calculator accounts for inflation when projecting your future spending needs.
Should I include Social Security in my plan?
Yes, if you expect to receive Social Security. You can estimate your benefits at ssa.gov. Many planners recommend planning as if you will receive 75-80% of projected benefits to account for potential future changes.
What if I am behind on retirement savings?
Consider increasing your savings rate, working longer, reducing expected retirement spending, or a combination. Even small increases in monthly contributions can make a significant difference over time due to compound growth.
How accurate is this calculator?
This calculator provides estimates based on the assumptions you enter. Actual returns vary year to year. Consider this a planning tool, not a guarantee. Consult a financial advisor for personalized advice.
Related Calculators
You might also find these calculators helpful: Compound Interest Calculator, Savings Rate Calculator, and Inflation Calculator.
This calculator provides estimates for educational purposes only. Investment returns are not guaranteed and vary based on market conditions. Past performance does not guarantee future results. Consult a qualified financial advisor for personalized retirement planning.