That million-dollar super question: How much do I really need?

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If you're anything like me, you regularly spend time pondering your retirement.

Sometimes, it will be happy daydreams, planning and looking forward to having the freedom of more time to tick things off my must-do and want-to-do lists.

But other times, sudden dread hits with the eternal question: How much superannuation will I need to fund that comfortable retirement with no money worries?

There are guides available, like the ASFA Retirement Standard, which suggests that for a comfortable retirement at age 67, the superannuation lump sum needed is $690,000 for a couple and $595,000 for a single person.

However, everyone's requirements will be different depending on many factors - like the lifestyle you want, whether you plan to continue working in some capacity, how healthy you are and where you want to live.

There's no one-size-fits-all.

One of the first steps you can take is to stop daydreaming and think seriously about what your ideal retirement looks like and how much you'll need to achieve it.

A handy tool to begin to understand how you're tracking is a good online super calculator that allows you to personalise your super forecasting.

NGS Super has launched a new and improved version of its online super calculator as part of its work to empower its members in their super journey.

It allows you to plug in a range of variables to understand better how what you do now and into the future could impact your super.

"Our online super calculator's been designed to help you see how the different pieces of the retirement puzzle can come together to give you an income after you stop paid work," said NGS Super's Education Manager James Perry.

"It can help you to understand how much super you could have at retirement and what that means in terms of an income through your retirement.

"You can also use it to see the impact of retiring earlier or later, reducing your work hours or adding extra to your super while you're working."

And if you're planning retirement as a couple the calculator also allows you to add in your spouse's super, as well as any other assets.

Of course, with any calculator there are assumptions involved and it's not a substitute for quality financial advice, says Mr Perry.

"But it could help you start planning and get a sense of the type of retirement you're on track for."

NGS Super has a dedicated team of financial experts to help you better understand your super and investments. Call 1300 133 177 or visit ngssuper.com.au to book an online or phone meeting with an NGS Super Specialist.

This is general information only and does not take into account your objectives, financial situation or needs. Before acting on this information, or making an investment decision, consider whether it is appropriate to you and read our PDS and TMD at ngssuper.com.au. You should also consider obtaining financial, taxation and/or legal advice tailored to your personal circumstances before making a decision. This information has been issued by NGS Super Pty Ltd ABN 46 003 491 487 as trustee of NGS Super ABN 73 549 180 515, RSE Licence L0000567 and AFSL 233 154.