How to use it
- Use the formula below with your own figures.
The formula
Sustainable withdrawal ≈ balance × safe rate.
Worked example
Drawing 4% a year is a common starting benchmark.
Frequently asked questions
What is the 4% rule?
A rough guide for sustainable withdrawals.
Does it guarantee income?
No — markets and lifespan vary.
Tips
- Start early; a decade of compounding is hard to replace.
- Always capture any employer match in full.
- Revisit your plan yearly as income changes.
Key terms
- Nest egg
- Total retirement savings.
- Drawdown
- Withdrawing from a pot over time.
- Match
- Employer contributions to your plan.