Retirement Savings Calculator

How Much Do You Need to Retire?

This retirement savings calculator helps you estimate how much you need to retire comfortably. Enter your current age, planned retirement age, current retirement savings, expected annual return, and monthly contributions to calculate projected savings at retirement and a safe withdrawal amount. Many planners use guidelines such as the 4% rule, the 80% rule (replace 70–80% of pre-retirement income), or saving 10–15% of income annually as starting points.

Key Concepts

• 4% Rule: A simple rule of thumb to estimate how much you can withdraw annually in retirement (multiply desired annual income by 25 to estimate the nest egg needed).
• Inflation: Over long time periods inflation erodes purchasing power — plan for realistic inflation assumptions when setting retirement goals.
• Diversification: Use a mix of accounts (401(k), IRA, taxable investments) and asset classes to manage risk and potential returns.
• Social Security & Pensions: Include expected Social Security, pensions, or other passive income when calculating needed savings.

Practical Tips

1. Increase contributions gradually — aim for employer match in 401(k) first.
2. Consider tax-advantaged accounts (Traditional/Roth IRA, 401(k)) and their rules.
3. Review and update your plan annually to reflect changes in income, return assumptions, or goals.

For deeper guidance, try specialized calculators such as a 401(k) calculator, inflation calculator, or consult a licensed financial planner.