Safe Withdrawal Rate Calculator
Quickly size annual and monthly retirement income from a portfolio at any withdrawal rate.
Inputs
Result
Visual breakdown
Formula
Annual = portfolio × rate. Monthly = annual ÷ 12. Weekly = annual ÷ 52. The 4% rule is a historical heuristic for 30-year retirements — not a guarantee.
Example
$1,000,000 at 4% → $40,000/yr (~$3,333/mo). At 3.5% → $35,000/yr (~$2,917/mo).
Related: Retirement withdrawal · FIRE · Retirement
How to use
- Use 3–4% as a planning range; lower is more conservative.
- Compare monthly income against expected expenses.
- Pair with the Retirement Withdrawal calculator to test duration.
When it's useful
- Estimating retirement income from a portfolio.
- Comparing portfolio sizes against income needs.
- Planning FI numbers (4% rule → 25× expenses).
Common examples
Frequently asked
What is a safe withdrawal rate?
A withdrawal rate historically considered likely to last 30+ years from a balanced portfolio. The 4% rule is the most common starting point.
Is the 4% rule still valid?
It's a heuristic with real limitations. Many planners use 3–3.5% today to account for longer retirements and uncertain returns.
Does it adjust for inflation?
The 4% rule assumes inflation-adjusted withdrawals. This calculator only shows the starting amount.
How is this different from the Retirement Withdrawal calculator?
Safe withdrawal rate sizes the starting income. Retirement Withdrawal simulates how long the portfolio lasts under that income.
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More money & work →Educational only — not financial advice. Real-world outcomes vary with market sequence, taxes, and fees.