Coast FIRE Progress Checklist

Phase 1: Foundation Building (Ages 20-35)

Achieve savings rate of 15%+ of income (automated transfers to investment accounts)

Maximize employer 401(k) matching contributions

Build emergency fund (6 months of living expenses in high-yield savings)

Eliminate high-interest debt (anything above 7% APR)

Invest in low-cost, diversified portfolio (target: 80-90% stocks, 10-20% bonds)

Calculate current age and expected retirement age

Determine annual retirement expenses (including healthcare estimates)

Check ssa.gov/my-account for estimated Social Security benefits

Phase 2: Acceleration (Ages 35-42)

Increase savings rate to 20-25% (resist lifestyle creep)

Build portfolio to reach Coast FIRE number

Calculate current Coast FIRE number using online calculator

Review and rebalance investment portfolio annually

Consider increasing savings during windfalls (bonuses, tax returns)

Evaluate whether to stay in high-cost area or relocate strategically

Phase 3: Coast FIRE Achievement (Ages 42-45)

Portfolio reaches Coast FIRE number (compound growth alone suffices)

Decision made: Stop saving aggressively OR reduce to optional savings

Reassess investment allocation (consider lower volatility if nearing retirement)

Set up withdrawal strategy for eventual retirement age (65-70)

Decide on geographic relocation timing if desired

Social Security claiming strategy finalized (target age 70)

Phase 4: Coast FIRE Living (Ages 45+)

Annual portfolio review without market panic

Maintain health insurance coverage during transition period

Explore part-time work opportunities (optional but not necessary)

Consider Roth conversions during high-income years for tax efficiency

Evaluate healthcare needs and long-term care planning

Update estate documents (wills, powers of attorney)

About This Checklist

This checklist guides you through the journey to Coast FIRE. Each phase builds on the previous one, maximizing your compound growth potential while maintaining flexibility.

Remember:
• Track progress annually
• Don't panic-check portfolio value monthly
• Every year you invest early is worth multiple years of delayed investing
• Lifestyle choices matter—resist creeping up your spending
• Use the calculators at coastfirewhen.com for precise numbers