How much can I withdraw in retirement?
This retirement withdrawal calculator starts with the savings you enter and the number of years you want them to last. It estimates the highest starting monthly withdrawal that can fund that horizon under your chosen return and inflation assumptions. The displayed amount is for the first year; the model increases it annually by the inflation rate you enter.
This is a drawdown illustration, not a guaranteed safe withdrawal rate. The calculation assumes a steady return each month. Real investments can rise or fall, and the order of those returns can matter when you are taking money out. Use the result to compare scenarios and review the annual balance table before making decisions.
How this withdrawal calculator works
Northstar searches for a starting withdrawal that keeps the modeled balance from running short before the end of your selected horizon. For each possible amount, it projects the balance month by month: it adds growth based on the annual return you entered, applies any one-time adjustment, and subtracts that month’s withdrawal. It then checks whether the savings cover the whole period.
Choose a return assumption after taxes and fees, if applicable. The calculator does not estimate your tax bill or deduct fees separately. The maximum modeled horizon is 60 years, and the result changes when you edit the savings, years, return or inflation inputs.
Example: monthly withdrawals from $500,000
The example starts with $500,000 and asks the savings to last 30 years. It assumes a 4% annual return and 2.5% yearly growth in withdrawals. The result above shows the model’s first-year monthly amount, while the chart traces the projected balance. Enter your own values to see how a shorter horizon, different balance or different assumptions changes the estimate.
What changes the estimated withdrawal?
Savings available
More savings generally support a higher withdrawal when the horizon and assumptions stay the same.
Years to fund
A longer retirement horizon usually calls for a smaller starting withdrawal from the same balance.
Return assumption
A higher assumed return can raise the estimate, but it does not make that return certain.
Inflation assumption
Higher future withdrawal growth leaves less room for a large starting amount.
Questions about retirement drawdown
Does this calculate IRA or 401(k) withdrawal taxes?
No. It projects how long a balance supports withdrawals but does not calculate income tax, penalties, required minimum distributions or account-specific rules. Use an after-tax return assumption if appropriate and consider taxes when deciding the amount you need to withdraw.
Does the estimated amount stay the same every month?
It stays level within each modeled year. On each yearly anniversary, the base withdrawal increases by your inflation assumption.
Is this the same as a savings contribution calculator?
No. This tool estimates withdrawals from existing savings. It does not project ongoing 401(k), TSP or 403(b) contributions.