NerdWallet Style Retirement Calculator
Plan your future by estimating your retirement nest egg based on your current savings and contributions.
How to Use the Retirement Calculator
Planning for retirement is one of the most critical financial tasks you will undertake. This tool helps you visualize how compounding interest and consistent contributions build wealth over time. To get the most accurate estimate, ensure you input realistic numbers for your expected rate of return and inflation.
Key Factors in Retirement Planning
1. Time Horizon: The "Current Age" vs. "Retirement Age" determines your investment window. The longer you have, the more you benefit from compound growth.
2. Rate of Return: Historically, the stock market averages around 7% to 10% annually before inflation. If you are a conservative investor, you might want to use a lower figure like 4% or 5%.
3. The 4% Rule: This calculator uses the "4% Rule" to estimate your monthly draw. This rule suggests that you can safely withdraw 4% of your total nest egg in the first year of retirement (and adjust for inflation thereafter) without running out of money for at least 30 years.
Example Calculation
If you are 30 years old, plan to retire at 65, and have $10,000 saved with a $500 monthly contribution at a 7% return:
- Total at age 65: Approximately $915,000.
- Monthly Income: Around $3,050 (based on the 4% rule).
Adjusting for 3% inflation, that $915,000 will feel like roughly $325,000 in today's purchasing power.
Strategies to Increase Your Retirement Fund
If your results show a shortfall, consider these steps:
- Increase Contributions: Even an extra $50 a month can lead to tens of thousands more in the long run.
- Delay Retirement: Working just two or three years longer allows your portfolio more time to grow and reduces the number of years you need to fund.
- Lower Fees: Ensure your retirement accounts (like 401ks or IRAs) are invested in low-cost index funds to keep more of your returns.