Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about the site's tools, methodology, and privacy.
- Is this retirement calculator actually free?
- Yes. Every tool on the site — the retirement calculator, expense estimator, Roth vs. 401(k) comparison, FIRE calculator, and the rest — is free with no account or signup required.
- Does my financial data get sent anywhere?
- No. All calculations run locally in your browser using JavaScript, and any inputs you save are stored in your browser's local storage. Nothing is transmitted to a server.
- What is Monte Carlo simulation, and why does the calculator use it?
- Monte Carlo simulation runs your retirement plan through 1,000 different sequences of market returns instead of a single average-return projection, showing a success rate and a range of outcomes (median, p10, p90). This captures sequence-of-returns risk — the danger of a market downturn early in retirement — that a simple average-return model would hide. See Data & Methodology for the full breakdown.
- Does the calculator account for Required Minimum Distributions (RMDs)?
- Yes. RMDs are calculated using the IRS Uniform Lifetime Table, with the SECURE 2.0 starting age of 75 applied for anyone born in 1960 or later.
- Should I contribute to a Roth or a traditional 401(k)?
- It depends mainly on whether your tax rate in retirement will be higher or lower than your tax rate today, factoring in IRMAA surcharges and estate goals. The Roth vs. 401(k) Comparison tool runs both scenarios against your numbers and gives a personalized recommendation.
- What withdrawal rate is safe in retirement?
- The classic "4% rule" (25x annual expenses) is a reasonable starting point, but the safe rate for your situation depends on your time horizon, portfolio mix, and how flexible your spending can be. The FIRE Calculator and the main Retirement Calculator's Monte Carlo simulation both let you test your own withdrawal rate against historical and simulated market conditions.
- How is Social Security factored into the projections?
- The retirement calculator models Social Security benefit scaling by claiming age and includes the IRS rule that up to 85% of benefits can be subject to federal income tax, depending on combined income.
- Is this financial, tax, or legal advice?
- No. Every tool on this site is for educational purposes only. For guidance specific to your situation, consult a licensed financial planner, tax professional, or attorney — see Learn More for directories of fee-only advisors.