Early Retirement & FIRE Guides
Go beyond the headline number. These guides cover the account, healthcare, career, and lifestyle decisions that turn a FIRE calculation into a workable plan.
Retire at 55
Build the full bridge from leaving work to Medicare and Social Security, including withdrawal options and savings targets.
Read the guideEarly retirement planningEarly Retirement Health Insurance
Compare ACA coverage, COBRA, employer benefits, and income-planning considerations before Medicare.
Read the guideEarly retirement planningRule 72(t) / SEPP
Understand the three IRS calculation methods, the payment timeline, and the mistakes that can trigger retroactive penalties.
Read the guideFIRE strategiesBarista FIRE
Plan a gradual transition to part-time work while balancing portfolio withdrawals, income, and health coverage.
Read the guideFIRE strategiesLean FIRE on $25,000 a Year
Explore a detailed low-cost retirement budget, location tradeoffs, transportation, housing, and healthcare.
Read the guideFIRE strategiesCoast FIRE Psychology
Work through one-more-year syndrome, saver identity, and the mental shift from accumulation to coasting.
Read the guideCareer-specific planningMilitary FIRE
Incorporate a military pension, VA benefits, TSP assets, and healthcare into a financial-independence plan.
Read the guideCareer-specific planningPhysician FIRE
Navigate a later earning start, high tax rates, student debt, retirement accounts, and lifestyle inflation.
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