What's the difference between Coast FIRE and regular FIRE?
Regular FIRE means having enough to retire now. Coast FIRE means having enough that future growth alone covers retirement—you still need some income for current expenses, but can stop saving for retirement.
What return rate should I use?
Historically, a diversified stock portfolio returns 7-10% annually. Use 7% for a moderate estimate or 6% to be conservative. The calculator adjusts for inflation to show real returns.
Should I stop saving once I reach Coast FI?
That's a personal choice. Coast FI gives you options—you could stop, reduce, or continue saving. Continuing builds a larger nest egg and provides a buffer against market volatility.
How much should my retirement goal be?
A common rule is 25x your annual expenses (the 4% rule). If you spend $60,000/year, aim for $1.5 million. Adjust based on your lifestyle, healthcare needs, and risk tolerance.