FIRE Calculator (Financial Independence)

Calculations are deterministic algebraic projections based on compound growth and standard withdrawal math. Inputs are treated as point estimates; real-world outcomes vary.

We follow best-practice software controls and data handling guidance aligned with standards for reliability and security, including NIST cybersecurity and risk-management guidance, ISO quality controls, and engineering best practices compatible with IEEE recommendations. Occupational safety governance referenced where relevant follows OSHA guidance for human factors in financial tools.

Accuracy notes: financial projections are sensitive to return and inflation assumptions and to withdrawal-rate selection. Backtesting or Monte Carlo analysis may be used alongside these deterministic methods to understand probabilities; this tool provides clear formulas and assumptions so users can validate and reproduce results.

Example: age 35, retire at 55 (20 years), current spending $40,000, inflation 2.5%, SWR 4% → inflation-adjusted spending ≈ $65,000; target ≈ $1,625,000.

Coast FIRE example: with expected real return 3.5% and 20 years to grow, the coast capital required is target / (1.035^20).

Time-to-FI example: with $50,000 current savings, $12,000 annual contribution, and 6% expected return, the model solves for years until the projected balance reaches the target.