Find your financial-independence number and how long until you reach it.
Calculated instantly in your browser.
How do you calculate your FIRE number?
FI number = annual expenses ÷ withdrawal rate, so the 4% rule means 25× expenses. Each year, savings grow by the expected return plus your contribution until they reach the FI number. For example, if you spend $40,000 a year, your FI number at a 4% withdrawal rate is $1,000,000. A lower withdrawal rate is more conservative and needs a larger portfolio.
Understanding your result
The 4% rule comes from research suggesting a portfolio can sustain withdrawals of about 4% a year, adjusted for inflation, over a long retirement. A lower withdrawal rate is more conservative and needs a larger portfolio.
Formula and method
FI number = annual expenses ÷ withdrawal rate (the 4% rule means 25× expenses). Each year, savings grow by the expected return plus your contribution until they reach the FI number.
Worked example
If you spend $40,000 a year, your FI number at a 4% withdrawal rate is $1,000,000.
How to use this tool
- Enter your expected annual expenses.
- Add your current savings and annual contribution.
- Set your return and withdrawal rate.
Common mistakes to avoid
- Underestimating future expenses, including healthcare.
- Using an over-optimistic return assumption.
About the FIRE Calculator
The FIRE Calculator works out the portfolio you need to be financially independent — your annual expenses divided by a safe withdrawal rate — and how many years of saving and investing it takes to get there.
Who should use this tool
Anyone pursuing financial independence or planning an early retirement.
Benefits
- Your FI number from the 4% rule (or your own rate).
- Years to financial independence.
- Your age when you reach it.
- Growth chart of your path to FI.
Practical use cases
- Setting a concrete savings target.
- Seeing how a higher savings rate speeds things up.
- Comparing different withdrawal-rate assumptions.
Frequently asked questions
What is the 4% rule?
A guideline that you can withdraw about 4% of your portfolio in the first year of retirement, then adjust for inflation, with a low chance of running out over 30 years.
Is this financial advice?
No. It is an educational estimate. Returns, inflation and spending vary — consult a qualified financial professional for your situation.