How long will it take to reach financial independence?
The answer depends far more on the share of your income you invest than on the size of your income. Enter your spending and monthly investment below to see your own timeline.
Open an investment account
We explain exactly what to compare before you open anything - costs, protection and the traps.
Savings rate sets the timeline
Assuming a 5% real return and a 4% withdrawal rate, a 10% savings rate points to roughly fifty working years, 25% to about thirty, 50% to about seventeen, and 65% to around eleven.
The relationship is not linear because raising the savings rate cuts the target and raises the contribution simultaneously. That is why each additional percentage point is worth more than the last.
What actually moves the date
In order of effect: permanently reducing spending, increasing income while holding spending flat, reducing investment costs, and only then adjusting the portfolio.
Test each one in the calculator. Watching the projected date move is a more persuasive argument than any rule of thumb.
Frequently asked questions
What savings rate should I aim for?
Anything above 20% puts you well ahead of average. Plans targeting independence before fifty usually run at 40% or more.
Does a higher salary speed it up?
Only if spending does not rise with it. Lifestyle inflation is the most common reason a rising income leaves the date unchanged.
How do fees affect the timeline?
A one-point difference in annual costs can push the date back by years over a long horizon. The investment return calculator shows the effect in cash terms.
Should I include my home?
No. Only assets that produce spendable income count towards the withdrawal calculation.
Get the FIRE Action Plan
Your FI number, target date and the monthly investment that hits it, with Coast, Lean and Fat milestones.
No spam, and one click unsubscribes. We never sell your details. See our privacy policy.
Keep going
Want the FIRE Action Plan?
Your FI number, target date and the monthly investment that hits it, with Coast, Lean and Fat milestones.
One email, then a short weekly note. Unsubscribe any time.