Retirement Calculator - Plan Your Retirement Savings | Calq.dev

Retirement Calculator

Plan your retirement savings and estimate your retirement income

Your current age

When you plan to retire

Total amount currently saved for retirement

How much you'll contribute each month

Average annual return (typically 7-10%)

Expected average inflation (typically 2-3%)

💡 About the 4% Rule: This is a retirement planning guideline suggesting you can withdraw 4% of your retirement savings annually without running out of money. However, actual needs vary based on lifestyle, healthcare costs, and market conditions. Consider consulting a financial advisor for personalized advice.

How to Use the Retirement Calculator

Plan Your Retirement Savings

Our retirement calculator helps you estimate how much money you'll have saved by retirement and how much monthly income you can expect to withdraw safely. It uses compound interest calculations to project your savings growth and applies the widely-accepted 4% rule to estimate sustainable withdrawal rates. This tool is perfect for planning your 401(k), IRA, or general retirement savings strategy.

Understanding the 4% Rule

The 4% rule is a retirement planning guideline that suggests you can withdraw 4% of your total retirement savings in the first year of retirement, then adjust that amount for inflation each subsequent year, without running out of money for at least 30 years. This rule is based on historical market returns and provides a conservative approach to retirement income planning.

For example, if you retire with $1,000,000 in savings, the 4% rule suggests you can safely withdraw $40,000 per year (or about $3,333 per month) in retirement.

Key Factors in Retirement Planning

  • Current Age & Retirement Age: The number of years until retirement determines how long your money can grow through compound interest.
  • Current Savings: Your existing retirement balance will continue to grow over time, even without additional contributions.
  • Monthly Contributions: Regular monthly contributions are crucial. Even small amounts can add up significantly over decades thanks to compound interest.
  • Expected Return Rate: Historical stock market returns average around 10% annually, but a more conservative 7% after inflation is commonly used for planning. Bonds and more conservative investments may return 3-5%.
  • Inflation: Inflation erodes purchasing power over time. Historical US inflation averages around 3% annually. The calculator shows both nominal and inflation-adjusted values.

Retirement Savings Tips

1. Start Early:

Time is your greatest asset. Due to compound interest, starting 10 years earlier can double or triple your final savings.

2. Maximize Employer Match:

If your employer offers 401(k) matching, contribute at least enough to get the full match—it's free money!

3. Increase Contributions Regularly:

Try to increase your retirement contributions by 1-2% each year or whenever you get a raise.

4. Diversify Your Investments:

Don't put all your eggs in one basket. Spread investments across stocks, bonds, and other assets appropriate for your age and risk tolerance.

Disclaimer

This calculator provides estimates for educational purposes only and should not be considered financial advice. Actual investment returns can vary significantly year to year and may be higher or lower than estimated. Past performance does not guarantee future results. Consider consulting with a qualified financial advisor to create a personalized retirement plan that accounts for your specific circumstances, goals, and risk tolerance. Factors like healthcare costs, Social Security benefits, pensions, and lifestyle choices will all impact your retirement needs.