Quick answer
$250,000 earning 5% can pay about $1,650 a month for 20 years.
How it works
This treats your lump sum like a loan you pay yourself back: the balance keeps earning a return while it pays out equal monthly amounts until it reaches zero.
Formula
Payout = P × r ÷ (1 − (1 + r)^−n), where r = monthly rate and n = months
Assumptions & limitations
- Fixed return every year
- Payments at the end of each month
- No fees or taxes
Frequently asked questions
Is this what an insurance company would pay?
Not exactly. Commercial annuities price in fees, life expectancy and guarantees, so quotes will differ.