Retirement Planner
A planner is a workflow: set assumptions, inspect KPIs, then iterate. This page opens the Retirement Architect so you can move from directional planning to a more detailed pass when you are ready — without losing a single shared assumption set.
Quick answer
Start in Simple mode for a fast read on readiness and portfolio need. Move to Advanced when you need account splits, richer withdrawal modeling, or scenario tables before a real-world decision.
For a related estimate, see Early Retirement Calculator.
Explore further: Fire Calculator · How Long Will My Money Last
How to use this calculator
- Anchor ages and horizon: Current age, retirement age, and how long the portfolio must fund spending drive every output.
- Separate real from nominal: Inflation pairs with spending growth; real return pairs with long-run sustainability.
- Use Advanced mode when taxes differ by account: Roth, traditional, and taxable buckets change spendable cash even when totals look equal.
- Iterate in one sitting: Change one lever at a time (age, savings, spending) so you can attribute moves in readiness.
What the planner emphasizes
Consistency of assumptions matters more than precision to the penny. Align spending growth, inflation, and return bands before comparing scenarios.
Explore further: How Much Do I Need To Retire · Retirement At 40
When to escalate complexity
If two scenarios differ only in headline equity return but not tax location, you may be hiding the real tradeoff. Advanced mode exists to surface that gap.
Real-world example
- Example: plan revision before maxing deferrals: If readiness is close but not quite there, model a higher contribution for three years versus retiring six months later — the planner shows which change clears the bar with fewer lifestyle compromises (illustrative).
Explore further: Retirement At 50 · Retirement At 60
Turning the plan into action
Export the insight as a priority list: savings rate first, then timeline, then spending, unless debt or healthcare constraints say otherwise.
FAQ
Is readiness a guarantee?
No. It is a modeled score from your inputs. Use it to prioritize savings, timeline, and spending tradeoffs.
Should I trust one Monte Carlo run?
Use it as a stress lens. If success is high but fragile to small return cuts, widen your cushion.
Does this replace personalized advice?
No — especially for tax, healthcare, and estate complexity.