FIRE Planning Budget Checklist

Monthly Expense Tracking Setup

Track all monthly expenses for 3 months (baseline)

Categorize expenses into: Housing, Food, Transportation, Entertainment, Utilities, Insurance, Healthcare, Miscellaneous

Calculate annual total for each category (multiply monthly × 12)

Set up automatic savings transfers (immediately after payday)

Implement 50/30/20 rule or your preferred budget method

Review and adjust category limits quarterly

Investment Account Setup

Open brokerage account (Fidelity, Vanguard, or Schwab)

Maximize IRA contributions annually ($7,000 limit under age 50)

Contribute to employer 401(k) up to full match if available

Set investment allocation (e.g., 80% Vanguard Total Stock Market Index / 20% Bond ETF)

Automate monthly contributions from checking to brokerage

Set annual rebalancing reminder (calendar date)

Lifestyle Creep Prevention

Commit to not upgrading car for next 5 years unless truly necessary

Limit dining out to once per week (not every day)

Avoid major purchases until age 35 unless essential

Shop at generic grocery stores and cook at home most days

Use cash envelope system or debit-only budget categories

Success Metrics

Aim for these milestones:
✓ Savings rate of 20%+ by age 30
✓ 50 savings rate (income - rent) in your 20s
✓ Coast FIRE number reached before age 45
✓ Portfolio value at least 10x annual expenses

Remember:
• Consistency beats intensity
• Automate everything possible
• Review your budget monthly
• Celebrate small wins along the way!

CoastFIREWhen — Educational content. Not financial advice.