Drawdown sustainability calculator
The retirement question that matters: how long does the pot last? Model an income against growth and inflation, and watch how hard the answer leans on the assumptions — that sensitivity is the real lesson of drawdown. Teal is your pot; the dotted-grey moment it hits zero is the number to respect.
Your numbers
How long the pot lasts
A smooth projection — real markets aren't smooth, and poor early years (sequencing risk) can exhaust a pot a steady average says should survive. Illustration only; not a forecast, plan or recommendation.
Assumptions and method
- Withdrawals are taken yearly and rise with the inflation rate you set, so spending power stays level; the remaining pot grows at the rate you set. Returns are applied smoothly — real-world volatility makes outcomes worse than smooth maths at the same average return when you're withdrawing.
- Figures ignore tax (income beyond tax-free cash is taxable), charges (subtract them from growth — see the fee impact calculator) and the State Pension, which typically covers part of the income need — check yours with our State Pension guide.
- If the pot survives past age 100 we call it "lasts beyond 100" rather than pretending precision.
The concepts behind the tool: retirement income options — including why this decision is the textbook case for regulated advice — and the retirement gap calculator for the accumulation side.
Reminder: this tool is general education. It doesn't know your circumstances, can't see future markets, and isn't a personal recommendation. Retirement income decisions are complex and largely irreversible: use Pension Wise (free, from 50) and consult an FCA-authorised adviser — our toolkit shows how to find one.