What is the minimum super drawdown?

Account-based pensions have minimum annual drawdown rates set by the government, ranging from 4% (under 65) to 14% (95+). These minimums were temporarily halved during COVID but have returned to normal rates.

Is super drawdown taxed?

If you're 60 or over, super pension payments from a taxed fund are tax-free. Under 60, the taxable component is taxed at your marginal rate minus a 15% offset.

Should I take a lump sum or pension?

A pension provides regular income and keeps money invested in a tax-free environment. Lump sums may suit specific large expenses. Many people use a combination.

Super Drawdown Calculator

How long will my super last?

Enter your balance, annual drawdown and assumed investment return and inflation. We’ll show how many years your super is projected to last and a balance-over-time chart.

Your Super and Drawdown

Enter your current balance, how much you plan to withdraw each year, and assumed investment return and inflation.

Current super balance ($)

Annual drawdown ($)

Amount you withdraw each year (e.g. pension drawdown)

Investment return (% per year)

Inflation (% per year)

Real growth = return minus inflation

How Long Your Super Will Last

Years until balance runs out16.0 years

Based on your drawdown and assumed real growth (return minus inflation), your balance is projected to run out after about 16 years. Consider adjusting drawdown or seeking advice.

Balance Over Time

Projected super balance each year

How to Use This Calculator

1Enter your super balance at retirement
2Enter your planned annual withdrawal amount
3Set your assumed investment return rate
4Set the expected inflation rate
5See how many years your super will last and view the balance over time

How Long Will My Super Last in Retirement?

Super drawdown is the process of withdrawing from your super to fund living expenses in retirement. How long your super lasts depends on your starting balance, withdrawal rate, investment returns and inflation.

The sustainable withdrawal rate is typically considered to be 4-5% of your balance per year, adjusted for inflation. Withdrawing more than this increases the risk of running out of money.

What Affects Your Super Longevity?

Starting balance: The larger your balance at retirement, the longer it can sustain withdrawals.
Withdrawal rate: Lower withdrawal rates extend the life of your super. The '4% rule' suggests withdrawing 4% of your initial balance annually.
Investment returns: Higher returns help your super last longer, but come with more volatility and risk.
Inflation: Rising prices erode purchasing power. Your withdrawals may need to increase over time to maintain lifestyle.

Making Your Super Last

•Consider a bucket strategy - keep 2-3 years of expenses in cash, the rest invested for growth
•Review your spending and withdrawal rate annually
•Factor in the Age Pension - it can supplement your super income when eligible
•Consider transition to retirement strategies before fully retiring

Frequently Asked Questions

Official Sources

Estimates only. Not financial or tax advice. Full disclaimer for your rights and our limitations of liability.

Rates and thresholds last updated for the 2024–25 financial year.

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