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FIRE Basics

Financial Independence

The state in which your investment income can cover your living expenses, making paid work optional.

Financial independence is the point at which the income generated by your savings and investments is enough to cover your ongoing living expenses. Once reached, working for money becomes a choice rather than a requirement.

Examples

  • If your investments reliably produce $40,000 per year and you spend $40,000, you are financially independent.

Related terms

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FIRE Basics
Article

What Is Financial Independence (FIRE)?

Financial Independence, Retire Early (FIRE) is the point where your investments can cover your living costs. Here is what that really means and how people pursue it.

Retire Early Guide Team3 min

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