The length of time $500,000 will last in a 401(k) at retirement depends on annual withdrawals, investment returns, inflation, and taxes. While there is no one-size-fits-all answer, financial planners often use rules of thumb like the 4% rule to estimate sustainable withdrawals.
The 4% rule suggests withdrawing 4% of your retirement savings in the first year, then adjusting for inflation each year. For $500,000, this would mean an initial withdrawal of $20,000 per year, which could last approximately 30 years, assuming average investment growth.
Factors That Affect How Long $500,000 Will Last
1. Annual Withdrawals
The more you withdraw each year, the faster your savings are depleted. For example:
| Annual Withdrawal | Approximate Duration |
| $20,000 | 30 years |
| $30,000 | 20 years |
| $40,000 | 12–15 years |
| $50,000 | 10 years |
Choosing a sustainable withdrawal rate is critical to avoid running out of money, especially if retirement lasts 25–30 years or more.
2. Investment Returns
How your 401(k) is invested affects longevity. Balanced portfolios averaging 5–7% annual returns historically sustain withdrawals longer than conservative portfolios with lower growth.
3. Inflation
Inflation erodes purchasing power over time. Even modest inflation of 2–3% per year can significantly reduce the real value of withdrawals, shortening how long the money lasts if not accounted for.
4. Taxes
Withdrawals from traditional 401(k)s are taxable as ordinary income. Higher tax brackets reduce net income, meaning $500,000 may last less than projected if taxes are not considered.
Strategies to Make $500,000 Last Longer
- Delay Social Security to supplement withdrawals later
- Use a mix of conservative and growth investments to balance risk
- Consider part-time work or other income sources in early retirement
- Follow a dynamic withdrawal strategy, adjusting withdrawals based on market performance
Final Thoughts
A $500,000 401(k) can provide a comfortable retirement, but longevity depends heavily on spending habits, investment performance, inflation, and taxes. Careful planning and realistic withdrawal strategies help ensure your money lasts throughout retirement.
Plan a 401(k) Withdrawal Strategy That Supports Your Whole Retirement
Estimating retirement longevity is complex. Contact Dimov Tax for expert retirement planning, tax-efficient withdrawal strategies, and guidance on maximizing your 401(k) savings.