What does the "4% rule" advise regarding retirement savings withdrawals?

The "4% rule" is a guideline used to determine a sustainable withdrawal rate from retirement savings. It suggests that retirees can withdraw no more than 4% annually from their retirement savings to minimize the risk of running out of money over a 30-year retirement period. This percentage is calculated based on an investment portfolio's total value at retirement and assumes a balanced mix of stocks and bonds.

By adhering to the 4% withdrawal rate, retirees aim to provide a steady income while allowing for potential growth in their portfolio, which can help cope with inflation and market fluctuations. The rule is grounded in historical market performance data, making it a widely referenced strategy for retirement planning.

In contrast, the other options do not accurately reflect the purpose of the 4% rule. Investing or saving specific percentages or limiting withdrawals to just the first year does not align with the comprehensive nature of this guideline. The focus of the 4% rule is specifically on creating a consistent annual withdrawal strategy to support long-term financial stability during retirement.