Online Tool Store
4% Rule Calculator
Calculate annual and monthly withdrawal amounts from a portfolio using the classic 4% rule, with a comparison across nearby withdrawal rates.
This works right here on your device — nothing gets sent out.
Annual withdrawal
Monthly withdrawal
Based on the classic "4% rule" heuristic from the Trinity Study — a starting guideline for sustainable withdrawal rates historically, not a guarantee. Actual sustainable rates depend on market returns, inflation, portfolio mix, and withdrawal duration.
| Withdrawal rate | Annual amount | Monthly amount |
|---|
How the 4% rule calculator works
- Enter your portfolio's current value.
- Enter a withdrawal rate — 4% by default, matching the classic rule.
- See the resulting annual and monthly withdrawal amount, plus a comparison table across nearby rates.
The formula
annual withdrawal = portfolio value × withdrawal rate
FAQ
What is the 4% rule?
It's a retirement planning heuristic suggesting that withdrawing 4% of your portfolio's starting value each year (adjusted for inflation) has historically had a strong chance of lasting at least 30 years, based on the Trinity Study's analysis of historical US market returns.
Is the 4% rule guaranteed to work?
No. It's based on historical US market data over specific time periods, and future returns, inflation, sequence-of-returns risk, and how long you actually need the money to last can all make a different rate more appropriate for your situation.
Should I always adjust withdrawals for inflation each year?
The original 4% rule study assumed annual withdrawals grow with inflation to maintain purchasing power. This calculator shows a snapshot at your current portfolio value and rate — it doesn't project future inflation-adjusted withdrawals over time.
Why do some experts recommend a lower rate, like 3-3.5%?
Some researchers argue that longer retirements, higher valuations, or lower expected future returns than the historical average justify a more conservative starting withdrawal rate — this tool lets you compare several rates side by side.
Is my financial data sent anywhere?
No. Every calculation happens instantly in your browser — nothing is sent to Online Tool Store or any other server.
How we compare
| Feature | Online Tool Store | NerdWallet retirement tools | Manual spreadsheet |
|---|---|---|---|
| Compare multiple withdrawal rates at once | ✓ | One rate at a time | ✓ |
| No sign-up or account | ✓ | Account often required | ✓ |
| Instant, no formula setup | ✓ | ✓ | Manual formula setup |
For a quick, no-strings look at what a safe withdrawal rate means in real dollars, the Online Tool Store 4% Rule Calculator gives you the answer instantly.