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$1 Million May Not Guarantee a Comfortable Retirement, Motley Fool Says

At a 4% withdrawal rate, $1 million yields about $40,000 a year, a sum that can strain budgets given longer lifespans, higher healthcare costs, plus taxes.

Overview

  • New guidance urges savers to reassess the $1 million target, noting it may fall short for many retirees.
  • Applying the 4% rule, a $1 million portfolio produces roughly $40,000 in annual withdrawals before any inflation adjustments.
  • Outcomes vary widely based on longevity expectations, healthcare needs, and whether savings are in Roth or traditional accounts.
  • Some retirees could manage on $1 million when combined with Social Security and a willingness to trim lifestyle or work longer.
  • Raising the goal to $1.5 million would add about $20,000 a year at a 4% draw, illustrating how a higher target can widen budget flexibility.