Sequence of Returns Risk Calculator
See how the order of investment returns dramatically affects your retirement. Compare good-first vs bad-first.
Good Returns First
$0.00
Bad Returns First
$0.00
Difference
$0.00
Both scenarios use the same returns (20%, 15%, 10%, -5%, -15%, -25%) — just in different order. The average return is 0.0%/year. Without withdrawals, both end at the same value ($919,338.75). Withdrawals during down years permanently reduce the portfolio's recovery potential.
Good Returns First (With Withdrawals)
| Year 1 (20% return) | $1,140,000.00 |
| Year 2 (15% return) | $1,253,500.00 |
| Year 3 (10% return) | $1,323,850.00 |
| Year 4 (-5% return) | $1,210,157.50 |
| Year 5 (-15% return) | $986,133.88 |
| Year 6 (-25% return) | $702,100.41 |
| Year 7 (0% return) | $652,100.41 |
| Year 8 (0% return) | $602,100.41 |
| Year 9 (0% return) | $552,100.41 |
| Year 10 (0% return) | $502,100.41 |
| Year 11 (0% return) | $452,100.41 |
| Year 12 (0% return) | $402,100.41 |
| Year 13 (0% return) | $352,100.41 |
| Year 14 (0% return) | $302,100.41 |
| Year 15 (0% return) | $252,100.41 |
| Year 16 (0% return) | $202,100.41 |
| Year 17 (0% return) | $152,100.41 |
| Year 18 (0% return) | $102,100.41 |
| Year 19 (0% return) | $52,100.41 |
| Year 20 (0% return) | $2,100.41 |
| Year 21 (0% return) | $0.00 |
| Year 22 (0% return) | $0.00 |
| Year 23 (0% return) | $0.00 |
| Year 24 (0% return) | $0.00 |
| Year 25 (0% return) | $0.00 |
| Year 26 (0% return) | $0.00 |
Bad Returns First (With Withdrawals)
| Year 1 (-25% return) | $712,500.00 |
| Year 2 (-15% return) | $563,125.00 |
| Year 3 (-5% return) | $487,468.75 |
| Year 4 (10% return) | $481,215.63 |
| Year 5 (15% return) | $495,897.97 |
| Year 6 (20% return) | $535,077.56 |
| Year 7 (0% return) | $485,077.56 |
| Year 8 (0% return) | $435,077.56 |
| Year 9 (0% return) | $385,077.56 |
| Year 10 (0% return) | $335,077.56 |
| Year 11 (0% return) | $285,077.56 |
| Year 12 (0% return) | $235,077.56 |
| Year 13 (0% return) | $185,077.56 |
| Year 14 (0% return) | $135,077.56 |
| Year 15 (0% return) | $85,077.56 |
| Year 16 (0% return) | $35,077.56 |
| Year 17 (0% return) | $0.00 |
| Year 18 (0% return) | $0.00 |
| Year 19 (0% return) | $0.00 |
| Year 20 (0% return) | $0.00 |
| Year 21 (0% return) | $0.00 |
| Year 22 (0% return) | $0.00 |
| Year 23 (0% return) | $0.00 |
| Year 24 (0% return) | $0.00 |
| Year 25 (0% return) | $0.00 |
| Year 26 (0% return) | $0.00 |
Use the Sequence of Returns Risk Calculator above to calculate your results. Enter your values and see instant results — all calculations run in your browser.
Disclaimer: This calculator is for informational purposes only and does not constitute tax, financial, or legal advice. Results are estimates based on the information you provide and current rates. Always consult a qualified tax professional or financial advisor for advice specific to your situation.
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