Tax-smart paths to financial independence, from a CPA
FIRE is mostly about saving and investing. But the hard questions (how to get money out early, how to keep taxes low, how to pay for health insurance before Medicare) are tax questions. That's where a CPA can help you think clearly.
What is FIRE, in plain words?
FIRE stands for Financial Independence, Retire Early. The idea is simple: spend well below what you earn, invest the difference, and keep going until your investments can cover your living costs. At that point, work becomes optional.
Many people never fully “retire.” They use financial independence to work less, change careers, start a business, or simply stop worrying about money. A common rule of thumb is that you're financially independent when your portfolio is about 25 times your annual spending (roughly a 4% withdrawal rate). That's a starting point for planning, not a guarantee.
The flavors of FIRE
Lean FIRE
Reaching independence on a deliberately modest budget. Smaller target number, less margin for surprises.
Fat FIRE
Independence with a comfortable or generous budget. A larger target, often reached with higher income and longer accumulation.
Coast FIRE
You've saved enough that growth alone could carry you to a traditional retirement. You only need to earn enough to cover today's bills.
Barista FIRE
Your portfolio covers part of your spending and part-time or flexible work covers the rest, sometimes with employer health benefits.
Flamingo FIRE
Save hard to about half your FIRE number, then downshift to part-time work while the portfolio grows the rest of the way.
Slow FIRE
A gentler pace: enjoy life now, keep a solid savings rate, and build in flexibility (sabbaticals, reduced hours) along the way.
Featured guides
FIRE and taxes: what a CPA wants you to know
Account types, tax brackets in early retirement, and the planning moves that matter most.
Roth conversion ladders explained
How early retirees can reach pre-tax savings before 59½, and the five-year rule.
Health insurance before Medicare
ACA premium tax credits, MAGI management, and the subsidy cliff.
Coast FIRE vs Barista FIRE
Two ways to stop grinding before you hit your full number.
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