What is Financial Independence (FI)?
Financial Independence (FI) is the state where you have enough passive income to cover your living expenses, meaning you no longer need to work to support yourself. A common rule of thumb is the "4% Rule," which suggests you need 25 times your annual expenses saved to be financially independent.
How does inflation affect my retirement?
Inflation erodes the purchasing power of money over time. What costs $50,000 today might cost $100,000 in 20-30 years due to inflation. Our calculator accounts for this to give you a more realistic picture of the savings needed to maintain your desired lifestyle in the future.
What are "Pre-Retirement" vs. "Post-Retirement" return rates?
The Pre-Retirement Return Rate is the expected annual growth of your investments while you are still actively contributing and growing your nest egg. The Post-Retirement Return Rate is typically a more conservative estimate of your investment growth once you are living off your portfolio, aiming to preserve capital while still generating income.
Is this calculator suitable for all countries?
This calculator uses general financial principles but does not account for country-specific tax laws, pension systems, or unique investment vehicles. While it provides a strong framework for planning, always consult a qualified financial advisor for advice tailored to your specific jurisdiction and personal circumstances.