What is the 4% safe withdrawal rate?

The 4% rule from William Bengen's 1994 research states that withdrawing 4% of total assets in year one, then adjusting for inflation each year, should sustain a portfolio for 30+ years. It's the core principle of the FIRE movement.

Is the 4% rule still safe?

The 4% rule has ~95% historical success rate. But low interest rates, longevity risk, and healthcare costs may affect sustainability. Many advisors suggest 3-3.5% or variable withdrawal strategies.

Retirement Withdrawal Calculator - 4% Rule Sustainability

Retirement Parameters

Total Retirement Savings ($)

Annual Withdrawal ($)

Or use withdrawal rate below

Withdrawal Rate (%) - auto-calculates annual withdrawal

Classic 4% safe withdrawal rate

Expected Annual Return (%)

Annual Inflation Rate (%)

Withdrawal amount adjusted for inflation each year

Calculation Mode

Target Years

About Retirement Withdrawal Strategies

Plan your retirement spending with confidence. The key question: how long will my savings last?

Common Strategies

•4% Rule: Withdraw 4% of total assets in year one, adjust for inflation
•Variable Withdrawal: Withdraw more in good years, less in bad
•Bucket Strategy: Short/medium/long-term pools

How much do I need to retire?

Using the 4% rule in reverse: annual expenses × 25 = target savings. E.g., $40,000/year needs $1,000,000. This is the FIRE movement's "25x rule."

💰 Retirement Withdrawal Calculator

Retirement Parameters

Year-by-Year Breakdown

About Retirement Withdrawal Strategies

Common Strategies

How much do I need to retire?

Retirement Parameters

Year-by-Year Breakdown

About Retirement Withdrawal Strategies

Common Strategies

How much do I need to retire?

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