Safe Withdrawal Rate Calculator

How much can you safely spend in retirement?

At 4% (fixed strategy)

$3,333/mo
$40,000/yr·$110/daycheck_circleSurvives 30yr

Portfolio Depletion Curve

fixed strategy, 7% return, 3% inflation

Safe Withdrawal Amounts

3% SWR
$2,500
/month
$30,000/yr
3.5% SWR
$2,917
/month
$35,000/yr
4% SWR
$3,333
/month
$40,000/yr
4.5% SWR
$3,750
/month
$45,000/yr
5% SWR
$4,167
/month
$50,000/yr

Strategy Comparison at 4%

How each withdrawal strategy affects your portfolio over 30 years

fixed
End Balance$2.4M
Year 1 Spending$40,000/yr
variable
End Balance$2.4M
Year 1 Spending$40,000/yr
guardrails
End Balance$2.2M
Year 1 Spending$40,000/yr

FAQ

What is the 4 percent rule?

The 4 percent rule says a retiree can withdraw 4 percent of their starting portfolio in year one, adjust that dollar amount for inflation each year, and have high odds of not running out over a 30-year retirement. It comes from the Trinity Study.

Is the 4 percent rule still safe for early retirement?

For 30-year retirements, yes, in most historical scenarios. For 40 to 60-year early retirements, many planners drop to 3 to 3.5 percent. Current high valuations also argue for a more conservative start.

What is a safe withdrawal rate for a 50+ year retirement?

Research by Karsten Jeske (Big ERN) and others suggests 3.25 to 3.5 percent as a more defensible starting rate for very long retirements, with the willingness to cut spending if markets fall early.

How do guardrail withdrawal strategies work?

Guardrails (Guyton-Klinger rules) let you start at a higher rate (4.5 to 5 percent) but cut spending when the portfolio drops past a threshold and allow raises when it grows. The calculator shows these dynamic rules against historical data.

What's the difference between fixed, variable, and guardrail withdrawals?

Fixed withdraws the same inflation-adjusted dollar amount regardless of markets. Variable takes a fixed percentage of current portfolio value (income fluctuates). Guardrails use a fixed amount most years but adjust up or down when portfolio value crosses pre-set thresholds.

This tool is for educational and informational purposes only. It does not constitute financial advice. Past performance does not guarantee future results. Consult a qualified financial advisor for personalized advice.

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