FireCalc: withdrawals- where?

[Tailgate]

Where in FireCalc is your withdrawal percentage rates or amounts entered? I don't see anywhere on any tab that there is a place to calculate any withdrawals from the portfolio? I know this is probably something very simple, but I just can't see it? Probably staring me in the face.. please help..

For example, I'd like to test 2%, 3% and 4% to see how each affect the outcome but I don't know where to do so..

thanks in advance for help!

[REWahoo]

The very first page in the "Start Here" box: "spending".

[Tailgate]

thanks for the reply. in looking at this, am I correct to say that:

'at it's basic bare bones approach, if I enter 'spending' as the withdrawal number (say 18k) and do not enter any SSI, Pension or other income on the income page, FireCalc will be telling me the failure/success rate of my withdrawal strategy based only on the portfolio itself?"

meaning, if I get to 100% success on 18k withdrawal rate then if my other income added into the equation exceeds my estimated annual expenses, I've done it correctly?

sorry for rambling.. just trying to wrap my little brain around the initial concept..

[ERD50]

Yes, assuming the following:

A) You entered your portfolio value on that same tab,

B) Your portfolio is invested approximately 75%/25% equities/fixed, and that your expenses are in-line with the default (0.18%)

C) Your pension is COLA'd.


For "B", you will probably only have an expense ratio that low if you DIY with low cost index funds. If you have an FA that is charging you 1% or so, and putting you in high expense ratio funds, you will need to boost the default fee number. This can make a huge difference.

Foe "C", if your pension is not COLA'd, the buying power decreases over time, so you can't really make the assumption it will keep up. Better to enter it on tab 2, along with SS.

-ERD50