About the retirement calculator
This calculator works in today's dollars so the numbers are easy to compare with what you spend now. It assumes your contributions rise with inflation and that your savings keep earning the same real return after you retire.
The "Savings needed" line shows the balance that would fund your income goal until your chosen age, after subtracting Social Security or pension income.
Formula
Real return = (1 + return) ÷ (1 + inflation) − 1. Income from savings = balance × r ÷ (1 − (1 + r)^−n) using monthly real return r over the retirement months n.
Frequently asked questions
What is the 4% rule?
It suggests withdrawing 4% of your portfolio in the first year of retirement, then adjusting for inflation, which has historically lasted about 30 years. It is a guideline, not a guarantee.
How much do I need to retire?
Many planners suggest 25 times your annual spending net of Social Security and pensions. The goal line above calculates this for your own numbers.
Does this include taxes?
No. Withdrawals from traditional 401(k) and IRA accounts are taxed as income, so plan for after-tax spending when you pick your income goal.