Safe Withdrawal Rate Calculator

Find your UK-specific safe withdrawal rate

The US 4% rule was built on American market data. UK investors face lower historical returns and a different sequence-of-returns profile. This calculator uses UK data to give you a realistic figure.

This calculator provides information and guidance only. It does not constitute regulated financial advice under the Financial Services and Markets Act 2000. Outputs are illustrative and based on current assumptions — they are not a prediction of future returns or outcomes. Tax rules, allowances, and legislation may change. Please consult a regulated financial adviser before making significant financial decisions.

Survival probability at 90

Withdrawing £20,000/year (4.0%) from a £500,000 portfolio

The US 4% rule comparison

Withdrawing 4% (£20,000/year) from your portfolio would give approximately 0% survival probability using UK market data over 30 years. The US 4% rule was developed using US equity returns, which have historically outperformed UK returns — making direct application to UK portfolios misleading.

Withdrawal rate comparison

Rate	Annual	Survival

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Portfolio details

Portfolio value

Annual withdrawal

= 4.0% withdrawal rate

Retirement duration

Asset allocation

Total: 100%

Equities60%

0%100%

Bonds30%

0%100%

Cash10%

Auto-adjusted to maintain 100% total

Scottish income tax rates

Applies to residents of Scotland only

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This calculator provides estimates for guidance only. Results are illustrative and do not constitute financial advice. Always verify figures with a qualified adviser.