This calculator estimates the annual income your super balance could generate in retirement — and how long it might last — based on your balance, drawdown rate, and investment return assumption.
Results are projections based on constant assumptions. Actual outcomes depend on variable investment returns, inflation, fees, taxes, and Age Pension entitlements — which are not included in this calculator.
Super Retirement Income Calculator
Understanding the Results
Sustainable drawdown: This is the maximum annual amount you can draw from your super balance for the target number of years, assuming the investment return you entered. It uses the same formula as an annuity — drawing this amount leaves the balance at approximately zero at the end of the target period.
Total annual income: Your super drawdown plus any Age Pension income. For many retirees, the Age Pension increases as super depletes over time — enter your estimated entitlement at age 67 for a more realistic picture.
ASFA benchmarks:
- Comfortable retirement: ~$52,000/year single, ~$73,000/year couple
- Modest retirement: ~$33,000/year single, ~$48,000/year couple
Most retirees with moderate super balances will fall between these two standards — especially once the Age Pension is included.
Minimum Drawdown Requirement
The ATO requires account-based pension holders to draw a minimum percentage each year:
| Age | Minimum Drawdown Rate |
|---|---|
| Under 65 | 4% |
| 65–74 | 5% |
| 75–79 | 6% |
| 80–84 | 7% |
| 85–89 | 9% |
| 90–94 | 11% |
| 95+ | 14% |
If your sustainable drawdown is below the minimum for your age, you must draw at least the minimum — which will deplete the balance faster than the calculator shows.
For a full breakdown, see Minimum Drawdown Rates — The Full ATO Table.
What If My Income Is Below What I Need?
If the calculator shows insufficient income, consider:
- Boosting contributions in the years before retirement — see Super Calculator
- Checking Age Pension eligibility — most Australians qualify for at least a part Age Pension
- Reducing target spending or distinguishing essential vs discretionary spending
- Considering a later retirement age — each extra working year adds contributions and reduces the drawdown period
- Working part-time in early retirement, supplementing super with earned income
For advice on structuring your retirement income, speak with a licensed financial adviser through MoneySmart. Related: Account-Based Pension Explained, How Much Super to Retire.