Financial independence planner
FIRE Calculator
Estimate the portfolio you may need for financial independence, when you could reach it and which changes may move the date closer.
✓ Private✓ No registration✓ Browser-based✓ Educational estimates
Plan your path to financial independence
The projection uses a real return after inflation and treats the withdrawal rate as an adjustable planning assumption.
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Your calculation in plain English
What FIRE means
FIRE stands for Financial Independence, Retire Early. The objective is to build enough invested wealth for paid work to become optional. Some people plan to stop working, while others want the flexibility to work less, change careers or take extended breaks.
This calculator estimates the target portfolio implied by annual spending and a withdrawal rate, then projects the current portfolio and monthly contributions using an inflation-adjusted return.
How the FIRE number is calculated
The FIRE number equals annual spending divided by the withdrawal rate. At 4%, the target is 25 times spending. A lower withdrawal rate creates a larger target and may offer a wider planning margin; a higher rate reduces the target but increases the risk that withdrawals are not sustainable.
The accumulation projection is expressed in today’s purchasing power by adjusting the expected return for inflation. The result should be compared across several scenarios rather than treated as a fixed date.
Understanding the readiness score
Excellent means the model reaches the target at least three years before your chosen age. Good means it reaches within three years either side. Needs Improvement means the projection is more than three years late or does not reach the target before age 100.
The score is a communication tool, not financial advice. Retirement length, market volatility, taxes, fees and sequence-of-returns risk are not fully captured by a smooth projection.
FIRE variations and risks
Lean FIRE uses a lower-cost lifestyle. Fat FIRE targets more discretionary spending. Coast FIRE describes having enough invested that future growth may fund traditional retirement without further contributions. Barista FIRE combines investments with part-time income.
Common risks include underestimating healthcare and housing costs, using an optimistic return, ignoring tax, and relying on the 4% rule as a guarantee. Early retirees may need a longer time horizon and more flexible spending.
Frequently asked questions
What is the 4% rule?
It is a historical retirement withdrawal guideline, not a guarantee.
How is the FIRE number calculated?
Annual spending is divided by the selected withdrawal rate.
Should I use 4%?
Test several rates. A lower rate creates a larger target and may be more conservative.
Does the calculator include inflation?
Yes. It converts the nominal return into an estimated real return.
What is sequence-of-returns risk?
Poor returns early in retirement can damage a portfolio while withdrawals are being made.
Should I include CPF or pension income?
Consider dependable future income when estimating the portfolio-funded spending gap.
Is FIRE only about retiring young?
No. It can support flexibility, part-time work or a career change.
How often should I review the plan?
At least annually and after major changes to spending, income or investments.
Continue your financial journey
Financial disclaimer: This calculator and guide are provided for educational information only. They do not constitute financial, investment, tax or legal advice. Actual outcomes will vary.