{ "fetchedAt": "2026-06-03T10:27:23.558Z", "note": "Public Reddit Atom feeds were used. Reddit JSON API returned verification/403 in this environment; Atom thread feeds expose the post and currently available top comment entries.", "posts": [ { "source": "r/passive_income hot", "id": "t3_1teb9fm", "title": "The ACTUAL smarter way to do vending machines - higher revenue, more passive, and it's still early", "author": "/u/glhfbbq", "updated": "2026-05-15T22:26:49+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1teb9fm/the_actual_smarter_way_to_do_vending_machines/", "content": "TLDR: Smart coolers are the way to go. Traditional vending machines suck. If you want a smart cooler business mentor, Sam's program is excellent. Go to redditvending.com for 20% off and a free training video.\n Traditional vending machines have a few big problems. They break down often, you have no idea what was sold until the next time you go to restock, they're kind of an eyesore, and most importantly, the revenue/margins are usually pretty low. It's a challenge to be really profitable and passive.\n That's why vending is going through a massive revolution and it's EARLY. Smart coolers are changing the game. I've been working on this for a couple of weeks now talking with property managers and building owners and it's truly exciting.\n https://preview.redd.it/htodqzqsjd1h1.png?width=1024&format=png&auto=webp&s=79d22954222575c7da22edc0be9e117b5f857de9\n I was introduced to this by Sam Hill who figured this out a few years ago and has built a robust vending business that's growing, profitable, and PASSIVE. I interviewed him - you can see the full 40-min video here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eqAFDUYvOD4\n A few key points:\n\n- Smart coolers have significantly higher revenue than traditional vending machines\n- AI-powered inventory tracking means you know what's selling in real time\n- Completely cashless\n- Way less theft\n- They look sleek and modern (easier to sell the idea to property managers)\n- You don't need a ton of capital to get started - lots of financing options to make it cash flow positive from day one of operation\n- In a solid location, one machine can do $3k+ per month\n- Sam offers a mentorship program that walks you through the entire process The most crucial piece of vending is getting the location - and this doesn't change with smart coolers. You have to find and land the right location first . This was definitely the hardest part for me at the beginning - especially for the first 2-3 places I talked to - but then it got wayyyy easier. And most people are happy to talk to you because it's no cost to them and c'mon it's just snacks and drinks .\n When you get started, there are lots of questions like - what locations should I target? What's the best way to get to the decision maker? What's the actual sales pitch? Where in the building should I place the smart cooler? What is the best smart cooler to get? What do I stock in the machine?\n I like to think I'm pretty smart so I'm sure I could've figured all of that out over time. But it would've taken lots of money and time to learn. After speaking with Sam, I decided to purchase his mentorship program ($2500) which has been EXCELLENT.\n He answered all of those questions with very good advice and he has templates for flyers, emails, and approaches to make all of it as easy and "early-mistake-free" as possible. For a relative newbie like me, that's been very helpful. His program is not cheap, but for me it's been worth it.\n And before you ask, NO this is NOT a sponsored post. Sam is not paying me to write this. I personally bought this program with my own money and I'm following it. I want to highlight REAL passive income opportunities and I've been very impressed with this one.\n Also, you can 100% do this without any mentorship/community. Find good locations, make an agreement with the property manager, get the smart cooler, stock it, and you're done.\n But if you want to fast track the process, get sound advice, avoid rookie mistakes, and have guidance + community along the way, I think it's worth it. Sam set up EXCLUSIVE for this community a 20% discount plus a free training video at redditvending.com\n Either way, smart coolers are the way to go. More reliable, higher revenue, more profit, more passive, etc. Basically everything is better.\n submitted by /u/glhfbbq\n [link] [comments]", "contentHtml": "
\"The

TLDR: Smart coolers are the way to go. Traditional vending machines suck. If you want a smart cooler business mentor, Sam's program is excellent. Go to redditvending.com for 20% off and a free training video.

Traditional vending machines have a few big problems. They break down often, you have no idea what was sold until the next time you go to restock, they're kind of an eyesore, and most importantly, the revenue/margins are usually pretty low. It's a challenge to be really profitable and passive.

That's why vending is going through a massive revolution and it's EARLY. Smart coolers are changing the game. I've been working on this for a couple of weeks now talking with property managers and building owners and it's truly exciting.

https://preview.redd.it/htodqzqsjd1h1.png?width=1024&format=png&auto=webp&s=79d22954222575c7da22edc0be9e117b5f857de9

I was introduced to this by Sam Hill who figured this out a few years ago and has built a robust vending business that's growing, profitable, and PASSIVE. I interviewed him - you can see the full 40-min video here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eqAFDUYvOD4

A few key points:

  • Smart coolers have significantly higher revenue than traditional vending machines
  • AI-powered inventory tracking means you know what's selling in real time
  • Completely cashless
  • Way less theft
  • They look sleek and modern (easier to sell the idea to property managers)
  • You don't need a ton of capital to get started - lots of financing options to make it cash flow positive from day one of operation
  • In a solid location, one machine can do $3k+ per month
  • Sam offers a mentorship program that walks you through the entire process

The most crucial piece of vending is getting the location - and this doesn't change with smart coolers. You have to find and land the right location first. This was definitely the hardest part for me at the beginning - especially for the first 2-3 places I talked to - but then it got wayyyy easier. And most people are happy to talk to you because it's no cost to them and c'mon it's just snacks and drinks.

When you get started, there are lots of questions like - what locations should I target? What's the best way to get to the decision maker? What's the actual sales pitch? Where in the building should I place the smart cooler? What is the best smart cooler to get? What do I stock in the machine?

I like to think I'm pretty smart so I'm sure I could've figured all of that out over time. But it would've taken lots of money and time to learn. After speaking with Sam, I decided to purchase his mentorship program ($2500) which has been EXCELLENT.

He answered all of those questions with very good advice and he has templates for flyers, emails, and approaches to make all of it as easy and "early-mistake-free" as possible. For a relative newbie like me, that's been very helpful. His program is not cheap, but for me it's been worth it.

And before you ask, NO this is NOT a sponsored post. Sam is not paying me to write this. I personally bought this program with my own money and I'm following it. I want to highlight REAL passive income opportunities and I've been very impressed with this one.

Also, you can 100% do this without any mentorship/community. Find good locations, make an agreement with the property manager, get the smart cooler, stock it, and you're done.

But if you want to fast track the process, get sound advice, avoid rookie mistakes, and have guidance + community along the way, I think it's worth it. Sam set up EXCLUSIVE for this community a 20% discount plus a free training video at redditvending.com

Either way, smart coolers are the way to go. More reliable, higher revenue, more profit, more passive, etc. Basically everything is better.

submitted by /u/glhfbbq
[link] [comments]
", "comments": [ { "id": "t1_om1c1kl", "author": "/u/fullcull", "updated": "2026-05-15T22:58:29+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1teb9fm/the_actual_smarter_way_to_do_vending_machines/om1c1kl/", "content": "So you’ve spent 2.5k on an ecourse? How many machines do you have?" }, { "id": "t1_om1p23p", "author": "/u/glhfbbq", "updated": "2026-05-16T00:15:48+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1teb9fm/the_actual_smarter_way_to_do_vending_machines/om1p23p/", "content": "Yes it's $2.5k for the program. You don't need the program to do it but I find it well worth it. Out of 20 locations I've dropped in on, 15 were very receptive and friendly, 8 ended up being pretty quick no's, 4 of them I'm in serious talks with, and 1 is in contract negotiations." }, { "id": "t1_omic6py", "author": "/u/EmperorPenguin1116", "updated": "2026-05-18T16:22:45+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1teb9fm/the_actual_smarter_way_to_do_vending_machines/omic6py/", "content": "So you have zero?" }, { "id": "t1_om18zre", "author": "/u/Hot-Strain1873", "updated": "2026-05-15T22:40:44+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1teb9fm/the_actual_smarter_way_to_do_vending_machines/om18zre/", "content": "been looking at this space for months and the smart cooler angle is definitely where things are heading. traditional machines are basically dinosaurs at this point - who carries cash anymore anyway\n couple weeks seems pretty fast to be giving advice on this though. location hunting is brutal in most markets and the good spots are usually locked up already. curious what your actual revenue numbers look like after you get past the initial honeymoon period with property managers" }, { "id": "t1_om1qf15", "author": "/u/glhfbbq", "updated": "2026-05-16T00:24:08+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1teb9fm/the_actual_smarter_way_to_do_vending_machines/om1qf15/", "content": "Interesting, I've actually had the opposite experience - most have been really receptive and friendly and happy to see a newer vending solution. Don't want to jinx it but I should have a couple locations closed in the next month-ish and should have some good metrics to share. What's been your experience?" }, { "id": "t1_oo98mcv", "author": "/u/drsmith48170", "updated": "2026-05-27T21:47:45+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1teb9fm/the_actual_smarter_way_to_do_vending_machines/oo98mcv/", "content": "Sounds like a lot of work for being passive OP.\n It actually sounds like a great idea, so I’m not trashing it. I’m commenting on the fact it is in reality far from passive." }, { "id": "t1_om1g1y8", "author": "/u/asphodel67", "updated": "2026-05-15T23:22:02+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1teb9fm/the_actual_smarter_way_to_do_vending_machines/om1g1y8/", "content": "Smart coolers have perishable food. Surely clearing out food that has expired is a major chore?" }, { "id": "t1_om1qvls", "author": "/u/glhfbbq", "updated": "2026-05-16T00:27:01+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1teb9fm/the_actual_smarter_way_to_do_vending_machines/om1qvls/", "content": "Just depends on what you stock it with. If it yields more margin I'd be happy to stock it often. I made it a priority for me to only go after locations that are within 20 minutes of my house or places I visit often. Eventually with enough locations I should be able to hire someone to do it for me." }, { "id": "t1_om2cwh4", "author": "/u/asphodel67", "updated": "2026-05-16T02:46:09+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1teb9fm/the_actual_smarter_way_to_do_vending_machines/om2cwh4/", "content": "Ok…but not sure how that counts as ‘passive’? Not saying it’s a bad idea…just sounds pretty active to me…" }, { "id": "t1_om2farh", "author": "/u/glhfbbq", "updated": "2026-05-16T03:02:04+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1teb9fm/the_actual_smarter_way_to_do_vending_machines/om2farh/", "content": "on average you restock once a week but rest of the time you're selling and making money without having to be there. and if you get to enough locations you'll hit economies of scale so you can hire someone to stock it for you at which point most of it would be passive.\n nothing is completely passive. the key is can you build (or buy) a cash-flowing asset that doesn't require you to trade hours for dollars and has a path to you to become a passive owner." }, { "id": "t1_om6gdr8", "author": "/u/NewCanadianMTurker", "updated": "2026-05-16T19:01:45+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1teb9fm/the_actual_smarter_way_to_do_vending_machines/om6gdr8/", "content": "When I click on your link to that redditvending site it takes me to a nearly blank page which only says:\n Unprocessable Entity" }, { "id": "t1_om1erss", "author": "/u/primaryBreadEater", "updated": "2026-05-15T23:14:31+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1teb9fm/the_actual_smarter_way_to_do_vending_machines/om1erss/", "content": "Is this a joke?" }, { "id": "t1_om1gv5u", "author": "/u/Future_Mechanic_2736", "updated": "2026-05-15T23:26:46+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1teb9fm/the_actual_smarter_way_to_do_vending_machines/om1gv5u/", "content": "Not passive." } ] }, { "source": "r/passive_income hot", "id": "t3_1syfpcq", "title": "[UPDATE] Rent Out Websites for Passive Income", "author": "/u/glhfbbq", "updated": "2026-04-28T22:00:42+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1syfpcq/update_rent_out_websites_for_passive_income/", "content": "TLDR: Not Another Coaching Program - an update to a coaching program that costs $2,980 and will teach you how to rent little websites for extra money passively AFTER some upfront work.\n I posted about this a couple years ago and thought I'd post an update (see updated interview here ). It looked like a really good program then and since then it's proven even more to be a very solid path to earning passive income. In fact, I went the extra mile and interviewed one of the students who is averaging $30k/mo (see it here ).\n If you don't know what I'm talking about, it's a method where you build and rent out websites to local companies. The core engine of it is SEO (I’ve done SEM/SEO for 20+ years). The program is legit and the methodology is sound. Their private community is still active with lots of rich discussions. This is a GREAT program most people can succeed at. The only caveat I would give is if you just aren’t good with the Internet (like you have trouble setting up your gmail or a facebook page) this might be tough for you.\n And because it's always one of the first questions, NO - this is not sponsored - they did not pay for this - I don't care if you buy it or don't. I created this sub 13 years ago and with all of the spam in this space, I just want to spotlight ones that I think are truly legitimate. I'll spotlight others as I find them.\n So with that, here’s their pitch…\n --\n Hey, it’s Shiv and Kyle from NotAnotherCoachingProgram.com .\n Let’s get the bad stuff out of the way:\n This course costs $2,980, lifetime access. I realize you might not have that much; or maybe you’d saw off your own arm before dropping that kinda cash on a coaching program. I get it. Feel free to bounce now so I don’t waste your time.\n We teach you how to build, rank, and rent out itty-bitty websites to small businesses wanting more customers. Aka, local SEO. Not new. Not sexy. But tried and true.\n Why teach? Because the money is great, obviously. But also, there’s endless niche/city combo’s, and a community means more help ranking sites and closing deals.\n Downsides? There’s a few. It’s not instant money. SEO takes time (Maybe 2-6 Months). Also, some business owners may not see the value or can’t handle more leads. Some are just annoying to deal with. Others will stop paying after a few months, for whatever reason. Overall, though, it’s still pretty awesome.\n Each site has overhead of about $20-$30 per month. But the lowest we typically rent the sites out for is $500 per month. Pretty solid ROI.\n Assuming I haven’t scared you off yet, let’s go through some FAQs.\n How does this work?\n 1- Pick an easy local niche to get leads for. “Spray Foam Insulation Carlsbad, California,” for example.\n 2- Make a small, simple website and optimize it for relevant search terms.\n 3- Get it ranked in Google, Bing, Apple Maps, and AI tools like ChatGPT.\n 4- Add a local phone number that can track and forward every call that comes in.\n 5- Hit up some Spray Foam Insulation companies in Carlsbad (to stick with this hypothetical example) and offer them free leads for a week. When someone agrees, route the leads to them. We or some of our hungry students can do the outreach for you if it’s not your thing.\n 6- After a week of the free leads doing all the selling for you, tell them, “It’ll be $850/month to keep ‘em coming.” Or whatever our custom pricing tool says is fair for that niche and city. Yes, we can close them, too, if that part sounds too scary (It’s not). But, it will cost you.\n 7- This is when it becomes truly passive because the site is ranked, the phone number is auto-forwarding to your client and all you have to do after that is run their credit card every month. If you priced the site right, you’ll never have to speak with your client again because they’ll forget they’re even paying you.\n 8- Now rinse and repeat.\n Hmm. Are you sure this is legit?\n Well, put it this way:\n Uber, Airbnb, Alibaba, Angi, Zillow, Thumbtack, and Apartments.com all use the same model.\n Connect buyer with seller, take a sliver to deliver. We just do it on a granular level. So yeah. Not only is it legitimate, it’s actually kinda brilliant.\n Who’s this for?\n Anyone, anywhere, any background, as long as you have some ambition, grit, and of course, basic computer skills. NO CODING INVOLVED.\n We use drag and drop website builders like Weebly & SitePanda so zero previous web design experience is needed.\n The more time you can devote to it, the better. But if you’re not in a rush, take your time and build up your digital real estate empire over time.\n Everything’s done online - So no, you do not have to do this in your own city. Nor do you have to meet anyone in person - unless you want to.\n How much does the course cost?\n Like I said, our coaching program is $2,980 - Lifetime Access to the course material and private Facebook Group.\n Then, to run the business, you’re looking at less than $30 per month per website. (Which covers your domain, hosting, local tracking number, and research software.)\n Chump change considering the potential.\n How much does an average site make?\n $600/month is a safe estimate.\n Most of ours do $1,000 to $2,000/month. Sometimes more.\n Yeah, but, for how long?\n For as long as you own the site.\n No different than renting out houses or apartments, right?\n And if someone stops paying, same thing - you just find a new “tenant.”\n Click a few buttons, reroute the leads to them, keep collecting checks.\n Dead serious…\n I made a site 5 years ago that’s been paying me $1,000 a month the entire time. That’s $60,000 and counting!\n You could hand these off to your kids one day.\n How much work is involved?\n A good amount in the beginning and then hardly any once the website is built, ranked, and you’ve partnered with a business.\n You could make a site in a day.\n Then ask others in our group for some backlinks (which are like votes in the SEO process).\n From there, it’ll take a few weeks to a few months to jump to page 1, depending on your niche and city.\n In the meantime, go make more.\n Soon, you’ll have emails and calls trickling in.\n Leverage those leads to close a deal… and then it’s basically mailbox money from there. Okay, how soon will I make money with this?\n Anywhere from one month to six months after starting, depending on a number of factors like:\n 1- How well you selected your niche & city. We prefer low-hanging fruit - the search terms with very weak SEO competition.\n 2- Your ability to trust the process, not overcomplicate things and just follow the exact steps taught.\n 3- How willing you are to reach out to business owners to offer them free leads and then ask for money.\n From there, it’s just focus, execution, and consistency.\n If you do your part, no reason you can’t have a handful of websites generating leads within the first month.\n And then you start landing clients in month two…\n And by month three? You’ve got a G-Wagon parked outside your new mansion, and you hardly ever run into your live-in servants, which is nice.\n (I’m joking.)\n How many of these can I have?\n As many as you can comfortably manage.\n No business is infinitely scalable though. Eventually you’ll need a team to go bigger and bigger. Anything below 20 clients is 98% passive. But 20 clients is easily $15k to $25k a month.\n As you grow to 40 and 50 clients, you’ll have some credit cards that decline that you have to follow up with and you have higher odds of needy clients who want to ask you questions.\n But this is something you can do as a one-person operation and easily get to 10, 20, maybe 30 rental sites with minimal maintenance if any at all.\n Don’t most businesses already have a website?\n Yes, and if they happen to be at the top of the search results, they probably don’t need us. But for the vast majority, who’re buried back on page 4 of Google, it’s a different story. Their website is a digital dust collector.\n Whereas, yours? Will be a cash factory churning out profits… that’ll make the amount they’re paying you seem like pennies in a wishing well.\n Plus, you can structure deals to remove risk.\n So instead of a flat monthly fee, they could pay you $5 per phone call or 10% of booked business that comes through your site, for instance.\n Boom. How can they lose?\n Wait, why wouldn’t they just do this themselves?\n Most simply don’t have the time, energy, or inclination to nerd-out on this stuff, even if it is a game-changer for their business.\n And remember, for every dollar they throw your way, they’re making that back several times over.\n So most of ‘em are more than cool with it.\n Won’t it get saturated if you tell everyone?\n Not gonna be an issue.\n Why?\n Because you would have to multiply every type of local business by every city on this big blue planet - and then go do this in however many millions of niches that would be - before you could say it’s cooked.\n And we’re a looong ways from that.\n Why do I need a course? Can’t I figure this out myself?\n Sure, anyone can figure anything out on their own with the internet and AI. But you’ll be banging your head against the wall for a year and most people don’t have that type of stamina before making a single dollar.\n You may think, “Can’t I just have AI build me a site and tell me how to rank it?”\n Sure you can try. But if you’ve used AI enough, you’ll learn that it gets things wrong a lot and you could be 6 months into a project and nothing is working.\n We teach you how to use AI for some of it, but you have to be really careful. Most AI tools watermark their content (look up SynthID if you don’t believe me) amongst other things.\n We have 10+ years of experience doing this. We know the exact Do’s and Don'ts.\n Plus Google isn’t going to jeopardize their $4 trillion dollar business over people mass-spamming sites with AI SEO (I don’t care WHAT Google’s says on the matter - they change their stance constantly).\n The biggest value here is our community. Because over 2,200+ people have paid $2,980 to join, you get access to a super high quality vetted group of students who are doing this exact same business model.\n Students constantly share tips, techniques, niches, and opportunities that have been crazy profitable for them, and since what one student is doing in Foster City, California (for example) isn’t competing with a site you’re building in let’s say Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, people don’t feel scared sharing their latest and greatest techniques with the group.\n And lastly: it’s LIFETIME access, we constantly improve, update, and add strategies to help make your business owners get more customers. The more customers they get, the more passive income you get. Win-win.\n We lay out the exact step by step process that we have used over and over again. Our repeat student successes within 6 months reassures us that we have our training nailed down.\n Are there any renewal fees or mandatory purchases from us?\n No further purchases from our program are required, but we do offer some outsourcing services:\n 1 - If you want our team to build you a fully optimized site, that’ll run ya $300 per site.\n 2 - If you want to use our proprietary software to build your site, that’ll run you a $25 platform fee plus $7.50 fee per site per month.\n 3 - If you want to use our proprietary phone software, depending on usage, that’ll run you ~$7.50 per month per number.\n Let’s be clear though, if you want to use another website builder or other phone number service, be our guest. It won’t hurt you at all.\n Fine. Can I see some examples?\n Thought you’d never ask.\n Visit NotAnotherCoachingProgram.com for a bunch of case studies and interviews with current students.\n At the bottom of that page is a link to our calendar if you ever think you’d like to join. Either way, appreciate you reading this.\n You’ll be talking to either Shiv, Kyle, or Alexandria. All of us have done six/seven figures a year in this business model.\n Shiv & Kyle\n submitted by /u/glhfbbq\n [link] [comments]", "contentHtml": "

TLDR: Not Another Coaching Program - an update to a coaching program that costs $2,980 and will teach you how to rent little websites for extra money passively AFTER some upfront work.

I posted about this a couple years ago and thought I'd post an update (see updated interview here). It looked like a really good program then and since then it's proven even more to be a very solid path to earning passive income. In fact, I went the extra mile and interviewed one of the students who is averaging $30k/mo (see it here).

If you don't know what I'm talking about, it's a method where you build and rent out websites to local companies. The core engine of it is SEO (I’ve done SEM/SEO for 20+ years). The program is legit and the methodology is sound. Their private community is still active with lots of rich discussions. This is a GREAT program most people can succeed at. The only caveat I would give is if you just aren’t good with the Internet (like you have trouble setting up your gmail or a facebook page) this might be tough for you.

And because it's always one of the first questions, NO - this is not sponsored - they did not pay for this - I don't care if you buy it or don't. I created this sub 13 years ago and with all of the spam in this space, I just want to spotlight ones that I think are truly legitimate. I'll spotlight others as I find them.

So with that, here’s their pitch…
--

Hey, it’s Shiv and Kyle from NotAnotherCoachingProgram.com.

Let’s get the bad stuff out of the way:

This course costs $2,980, lifetime access. I realize you might not have that much; or maybe you’d saw off your own arm before dropping that kinda cash on a coaching program. I get it. Feel free to bounce now so I don’t waste your time.

We teach you how to build, rank, and rent out itty-bitty websites to small businesses wanting more customers. Aka, local SEO. Not new. Not sexy. But tried and true.

Why teach? Because the money is great, obviously. But also, there’s endless niche/city combo’s, and a community means more help ranking sites and closing deals.

Downsides? There’s a few. It’s not instant money. SEO takes time (Maybe 2-6 Months). Also, some business owners may not see the value or can’t handle more leads. Some are just annoying to deal with. Others will stop paying after a few months, for whatever reason. Overall, though, it’s still pretty awesome.

Each site has overhead of about $20-$30 per month. But the lowest we typically rent the sites out for is $500 per month. Pretty solid ROI.

Assuming I haven’t scared you off yet, let’s go through some FAQs.

How does this work?

1- Pick an easy local niche to get leads for. “Spray Foam Insulation Carlsbad, California,” for example.

2- Make a small, simple website and optimize it for relevant search terms.

3- Get it ranked in Google, Bing, Apple Maps, and AI tools like ChatGPT.

4- Add a local phone number that can track and forward every call that comes in.

5- Hit up some Spray Foam Insulation companies in Carlsbad (to stick with this hypothetical example) and offer them free leads for a week. When someone agrees, route the leads to them. We or some of our hungry students can do the outreach for you if it’s not your thing.

6- After a week of the free leads doing all the selling for you, tell them, “It’ll be $850/month to keep ‘em coming.” Or whatever our custom pricing tool says is fair for that niche and city. Yes, we can close them, too, if that part sounds too scary (It’s not). But, it will cost you.

7- This is when it becomes truly passive because the site is ranked, the phone number is auto-forwarding to your client and all you have to do after that is run their credit card every month. If you priced the site right, you’ll never have to speak with your client again because they’ll forget they’re even paying you.

8- Now rinse and repeat.

Hmm. Are you sure this is legit?

Well, put it this way:

Uber, Airbnb, Alibaba, Angi, Zillow, Thumbtack, and Apartments.com all use the same model.

Connect buyer with seller, take a sliver to deliver. We just do it on a granular level. So yeah. Not only is it legitimate, it’s actually kinda brilliant.

Who’s this for?

Anyone, anywhere, any background, as long as you have some ambition, grit, and of course, basic computer skills. NO CODING INVOLVED.

We use drag and drop website builders like Weebly & SitePanda so zero previous web design experience is needed.

The more time you can devote to it, the better. But if you’re not in a rush, take your time and build up your digital real estate empire over time.

Everything’s done online - So no, you do not have to do this in your own city. Nor do you have to meet anyone in person - unless you want to.

How much does the course cost?

Like I said, our coaching program is $2,980 - Lifetime Access to the course material and private Facebook Group.

Then, to run the business, you’re looking at less than $30 per month per website. (Which covers your domain, hosting, local tracking number, and research software.)

Chump change considering the potential.

How much does an average site make?

$600/month is a safe estimate.

Most of ours do $1,000 to $2,000/month. Sometimes more.

Yeah, but, for how long?

For as long as you own the site.

No different than renting out houses or apartments, right?

And if someone stops paying, same thing - you just find a new “tenant.”

Click a few buttons, reroute the leads to them, keep collecting checks.

Dead serious…

I made a site 5 years ago that’s been paying me $1,000 a month the entire time. That’s $60,000 and counting!

You could hand these off to your kids one day.

How much work is involved?

A good amount in the beginning and then hardly any once the website is built, ranked, and you’ve partnered with a business.

You could make a site in a day.

Then ask others in our group for some backlinks (which are like votes in the SEO process).

From there, it’ll take a few weeks to a few months to jump to page 1, depending on your niche and city.

In the meantime, go make more.

Soon, you’ll have emails and calls trickling in.

Leverage those leads to close a deal… and then it’s basically mailbox money from there. Okay, how soon will I make money with this?

Anywhere from one month to six months after starting, depending on a number of factors like:

1- How well you selected your niche & city. We prefer low-hanging fruit - the search terms with very weak SEO competition.

2- Your ability to trust the process, not overcomplicate things and just follow the exact steps taught.

3- How willing you are to reach out to business owners to offer them free leads and then ask for money.

From there, it’s just focus, execution, and consistency.

If you do your part, no reason you can’t have a handful of websites generating leads within the first month.

And then you start landing clients in month two…

And by month three? You’ve got a G-Wagon parked outside your new mansion, and you hardly ever run into your live-in servants, which is nice.

(I’m joking.)

How many of these can I have?

As many as you can comfortably manage.

No business is infinitely scalable though. Eventually you’ll need a team to go bigger and bigger. Anything below 20 clients is 98% passive. But 20 clients is easily $15k to $25k a month.

As you grow to 40 and 50 clients, you’ll have some credit cards that decline that you have to follow up with and you have higher odds of needy clients who want to ask you questions.

But this is something you can do as a one-person operation and easily get to 10, 20, maybe 30 rental sites with minimal maintenance if any at all.

Don’t most businesses already have a website?

Yes, and if they happen to be at the top of the search results, they probably don’t need us. But for the vast majority, who’re buried back on page 4 of Google, it’s a different story. Their website is a digital dust collector.

Whereas, yours? Will be a cash factory churning out profits… that’ll make the amount they’re paying you seem like pennies in a wishing well.

Plus, you can structure deals to remove risk.

So instead of a flat monthly fee, they could pay you $5 per phone call or 10% of booked business that comes through your site, for instance.

Boom. How can they lose?

Wait, why wouldn’t they just do this themselves?

Most simply don’t have the time, energy, or inclination to nerd-out on this stuff, even if it is a game-changer for their business.

And remember, for every dollar they throw your way, they’re making that back several times over.

So most of ‘em are more than cool with it.

Won’t it get saturated if you tell everyone?

Not gonna be an issue.

Why?

Because you would have to multiply every type of local business by every city on this big blue planet - and then go do this in however many millions of niches that would be - before you could say it’s cooked.

And we’re a looong ways from that.

Why do I need a course? Can’t I figure this out myself?

Sure, anyone can figure anything out on their own with the internet and AI. But you’ll be banging your head against the wall for a year and most people don’t have that type of stamina before making a single dollar.

You may think, “Can’t I just have AI build me a site and tell me how to rank it?”

Sure you can try. But if you’ve used AI enough, you’ll learn that it gets things wrong a lot and you could be 6 months into a project and nothing is working.

We teach you how to use AI for some of it, but you have to be really careful. Most AI tools watermark their content (look up SynthID if you don’t believe me) amongst other things.

We have 10+ years of experience doing this. We know the exact Do’s and Don'ts.

Plus Google isn’t going to jeopardize their $4 trillion dollar business over people mass-spamming sites with AI SEO (I don’t care WHAT Google’s says on the matter - they change their stance constantly).

The biggest value here is our community. Because over 2,200+ people have paid $2,980 to join, you get access to a super high quality vetted group of students who are doing this exact same business model.

Students constantly share tips, techniques, niches, and opportunities that have been crazy profitable for them, and since what one student is doing in Foster City, California (for example) isn’t competing with a site you’re building in let’s say Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, people don’t feel scared sharing their latest and greatest techniques with the group.

And lastly: it’s LIFETIME access, we constantly improve, update, and add strategies to help make your business owners get more customers. The more customers they get, the more passive income you get. Win-win.

We lay out the exact step by step process that we have used over and over again. Our repeat student successes within 6 months reassures us that we have our training nailed down.

Are there any renewal fees or mandatory purchases from us?

No further purchases from our program are required, but we do offer some outsourcing services:

1 - If you want our team to build you a fully optimized site, that’ll run ya $300 per site.

2 - If you want to use our proprietary software to build your site, that’ll run you a $25 platform fee plus $7.50 fee per site per month.

3 - If you want to use our proprietary phone software, depending on usage, that’ll run you ~$7.50 per month per number.

Let’s be clear though, if you want to use another website builder or other phone number service, be our guest. It won’t hurt you at all.

Fine. Can I see some examples?

Thought you’d never ask.

Visit NotAnotherCoachingProgram.com for a bunch of case studies and interviews with current students.

At the bottom of that page is a link to our calendar if you ever think you’d like to join. Either way, appreciate you reading this.

You’ll be talking to either Shiv, Kyle, or Alexandria. All of us have done six/seven figures a year in this business model.

Shiv & Kyle

submitted by /u/glhfbbq
[link] [comments]", "comments": [ { "id": "t1_oitvcq1", "author": "/u/AutoModerator", "updated": "2026-04-28T22:00:42+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1syfpcq/update_rent_out_websites_for_passive_income/oitvcq1/", "content": "Check out the Community Highlights for current and future Mod Vetted opportunities and Newsletter Episodes.\n Please do due diligence on any crypto opportunity. A simple google search could save you a fortune.\n I am a bot, and this action was performed automatically. Please contact the moderators of this subreddit if you have any questions or concerns." }, { "id": "t1_oiv2rsg", "author": "/u/umhassy", "updated": "2026-04-29T02:01:35+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1syfpcq/update_rent_out_websites_for_passive_income/oiv2rsg/", "content": "Bro, if you earn this much money yourself just do it 20 times and stop bullshitting.\n EDIT: This ad was posted by a mod lol\n EDIT2: Remember, the people who always get rich during a gold rush are the ones selling the shovels" }, { "id": "t1_oivp1hd", "author": "/u/Electrical_Pay3876", "updated": "2026-04-29T04:20:39+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1syfpcq/update_rent_out_websites_for_passive_income/oivp1hd/", "content": "Hey u/umhassy TOTALLY get the skepticism and not mad about it... "oh here we go another person teaching you how to make money"\n I simply ask you this: when you schedule a call with us you can LITERALLY ask us to pull up our ACTUAL websites, our actual call logs, our actual Stripe (merchant) receipts, heck I'm probably even happy to show you my tax returns\n We actually DO this business. Yes, the coaching program makes them money on top - but 99% of these courses can't show you they make money doing the actual thing. Kyle & Shiv's team can." }, { "id": "t1_oiwwacx", "author": "/u/umhassy", "updated": "2026-04-29T10:27:28+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1syfpcq/update_rent_out_websites_for_passive_income/oiwwacx/", "content": "ok do you have some youtube videos where you talk about this business?" }, { "id": "t1_oiyukpm", "author": "/u/longhorn2118", "updated": "2026-04-29T16:36:07+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1syfpcq/update_rent_out_websites_for_passive_income/oiyukpm/", "content": "https://vimeo.com/1187468346/fd2bda7a44" }, { "id": "t1_oiyunvc", "author": "/u/longhorn2118", "updated": "2026-04-29T16:36:32+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1syfpcq/update_rent_out_websites_for_passive_income/oiyunvc/", "content": "https://vimeo.com/1187468347/9714fc8310" }, { "id": "t1_oj6zz7i", "author": "/u/intelw1zard", "updated": "2026-04-30T20:06:12+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1syfpcq/update_rent_out_websites_for_passive_income/oj6zz7i/", "content": "yes its for sure bs lol" }, { "id": "t1_ojetmyd", "author": "/u/NudeSpaceDude", "updated": "2026-05-01T23:30:02+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1syfpcq/update_rent_out_websites_for_passive_income/ojetmyd/", "content": "This is a legitimate business model, MJ DeMarco did this to make his first few million (he's an entrepreneur and author of Fastlane Millionaire) like 20 years ago. It's basically just a simple lead generation business.\n That being said, I'm not sure why this group costs $3k to join, that's pretty wild. I guess because they can." }, { "id": "t1_oiu7xus", "author": "/u/longhorn2118", "updated": "2026-04-28T23:09:21+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1syfpcq/update_rent_out_websites_for_passive_income/oiu7xus/", "content": "https://preview.redd.it/k373dpojj0yg1.jpeg?width=1206&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=c4b245a9042a06f396c85640677077969b4c8eac\n Example of a member of the private community landing a client" }, { "id": "t1_oiu7wkp", "author": "/u/longhorn2118", "updated": "2026-04-28T23:09:09+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1syfpcq/update_rent_out_websites_for_passive_income/oiu7wkp/", "content": "https://preview.redd.it/srgiaohbj0yg1.jpeg?width=1206&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=d0e58d351ad97c0d3f935bcfce75b492ec130764\n Example of a member of the private community landing a client" }, { "id": "t1_oiu80vb", "author": "/u/longhorn2118", "updated": "2026-04-28T23:09:48+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1syfpcq/update_rent_out_websites_for_passive_income/oiu80vb/", "content": "https://preview.redd.it/cs0k11lmj0yg1.jpeg?width=1206&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=7833b668d90f4a09a4caa237e5c119f9a8ece6ad\n Example of a member of the private community landing a client" }, { "id": "t1_oiu82ff", "author": "/u/longhorn2118", "updated": "2026-04-28T23:10:02+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1syfpcq/update_rent_out_websites_for_passive_income/oiu82ff/", "content": "https://preview.redd.it/icrcii2oj0yg1.jpeg?width=1206&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=55cd10492d62329842610bda5e393eef7232ddd9\n Example of a member of the private community landing a client" }, { "id": "t1_oiuoneg", "author": "/u/goldy_bra_r", "updated": "2026-04-29T00:42:04+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1syfpcq/update_rent_out_websites_for_passive_income/oiuoneg/", "content": "Shiv asked me to come here and tell my story with his cou͏rse.\n I joined about 2.5 years ago. I had tried a few different things online and had mild success with a few. But this was the first business model that really made sense to me. I use Google just like everyone else does so I knew this would work if I could just get sites to page one.\n I didn't want to try and figure this all out myself through trial and error so I decided to fast track it by taking the course. It was a HUGE amount of money for me at the time but I was pretty desperate. Thankfully, it paid off more than I could have ever predicted.\n I went through the course, utilized the support team, joined the live calls every week and after about 3 or 4 months, I had my first site ranking. Then my first lead came in. Then I called my first prospect. Then got my first client.\n It was mind blowing because it was the first time I had ever made money outside of a W2 income. And I didn't feel guilty taking the money because I knew that my leads made my client a lot of money. Total WIN͏ WIN.\n Today I'm at around $15k a month. It's a mind blowing amount of money to me but the bes͏t part is that it's genuinely 95% passive. Obviously, upfront work but once you have the client and their CC info, it's on autopilot for the forseeable future. Only things that come up are clients not paying on time or random questions they reach out to me about.\n I'm having a hard time growing my business right now just because it's so damn comfortable knowing that I technically don't have to lift a finger all month and I'll still make the same $15k. But I'm still building, just a bit more slowly.\n I'm forever indebted to Shiv and all the other coaches on staff. This program was the best thing that ever happened to me. Highly reco͏mmend." }, { "id": "t1_oizgcs6", "author": "/u/alexandria_tran", "updated": "2026-04-29T18:12:00+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1syfpcq/update_rent_out_websites_for_passive_income/oizgcs6/", "content": "Love this story" }, { "id": "t1_ojeutj8", "author": "/u/NudeSpaceDude", "updated": "2026-05-01T23:37:00+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1syfpcq/update_rent_out_websites_for_passive_income/ojeutj8/", "content": "How many websites do you rent to make $15k?" }, { "id": "t1_oiv70ud", "author": "/u/alexandria_tran", "updated": "2026-04-29T02:25:48+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1syfpcq/update_rent_out_websites_for_passive_income/oiv70ud/", "content": "https://preview.redd.it/alpm0w9th1yg1.jpeg?width=1320&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=3a7094d5ea415351da2cfb9f9d994e1752ad2aba\n Hey guys!! I am a student of the program!!! This program helped me quit my teaching job, I make six figures a year practicing this business model. Here is one of my clients, they pay me $650 a month. Imagine free money each month. I can’t imagine what’s holding ppl back from starting something like this. I’m telling you when I starting I had 0 experience and if I can do it you definitely can." }, { "id": "t1_oj4og4p", "author": "/u/Emergency_Plate4175", "updated": "2026-04-30T13:34:05+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1syfpcq/update_rent_out_websites_for_passive_income/oj4og4p/", "content": "i've seen few people try this model but it always feels like it can get messy once u have more than a handful of sites running. from what i see, people who stick with it long term usually keep things pretty simple on the build side so its easier to manage and repeat without burning time on each one.\n im curious how u're structuring urs right now, r u reusing the same layout and just swapping content per niche or r u building each one a bit differently depending on the client?\n i've seen some setups where people keep things light using super, so they dont have to maintain a full custom build for evey site. also wondering how u're handling updates and small changes once a site is live, since that seems like the part that slowly adds up\n feels like keeping the setup simple probably makes a big difference once u start managing more than 1 few sites" }, { "id": "t1_ojeul4v", "author": "/u/NudeSpaceDude", "updated": "2026-05-01T23:35:39+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1syfpcq/update_rent_out_websites_for_passive_income/ojeul4v/", "content": "Theoretically, you could reuse the same site a ton of times. Like "lawn care *city*" website could be made for every single city in the US and use almost identical layouts and content." }, { "id": "t1_okg8o0h", "author": "/u/New-Measurement2672", "updated": "2026-05-07T14:12:19+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1syfpcq/update_rent_out_websites_for_passive_income/okg8o0h/", "content": "There's a lot of talk these days that getting page one organic rankings on Google is almost impossible these days, at least in a reasonable time frame. (Which wasn't the case 1-2 years ago.) If so, that would have a drastic affect on the viability of this model.\n Does anyone who is running this business now find that to be true? And if not, how long is it taking to get to page one on Google?" }, { "id": "t1_okdp2ij", "author": "/u/Remarkable_Junket185", "updated": "2026-05-07T03:21:36+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1syfpcq/update_rent_out_websites_for_passive_income/okdp2ij/", "content": "Have heard about this model a lot but tell me one thing, if I search for let’s say spray foam insulation in carslbad, google will push google maps business profiles on the top. 95% of the traffic would get redirected from there. I don’t think anyone goes beyond that" }, { "id": "t1_ol1f7f5", "author": "/u/Moist_Awareness_6965", "updated": "2026-05-10T18:20:08+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1syfpcq/update_rent_out_websites_for_passive_income/ol1f7f5/", "content": "Do you guys also help with getting backlinks? do you have a good network for this?" } ] }, { "source": "r/passive_income hot", "id": "t3_1tuzy9u", "title": "Owning rentals has been way less “passive” than people make it sound", "author": "/u/maxrain30", "updated": "2026-06-02T18:36:40+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tuzy9u/owning_rentals_has_been_way_less_passive_than/", "content": "Maybe this is obvious to experienced investors, but I feel like social media really oversells the “passive income” part of rental properties.\n I bought an investment place a while back thinking it would mostly run itself outside the occasional issue here and there. Reality has been a lot more emails, tradies, random maintenance stuff, tenant questions, paperwork, and generally having to think about it way more than I expected.\n Not saying it’s bad financially, just definitely not what I imagined when people say “make money while you sleep.”\n Lately I’ve been trying to figure out whether the only real way to make property semi-passive is having a genuinely solid PM in place.\n For people here with rentals - does it actually become passive at some point, or is that mostly a myth?\n submitted by /u/maxrain30\n [link] [comments]", "contentHtml": "

Maybe this is obvious to experienced investors, but I feel like social media really oversells the “passive income” part of rental properties.

I bought an investment place a while back thinking it would mostly run itself outside the occasional issue here and there. Reality has been a lot more emails, tradies, random maintenance stuff, tenant questions, paperwork, and generally having to think about it way more than I expected.

Not saying it’s bad financially, just definitely not what I imagined when people say “make money while you sleep.”

Lately I’ve been trying to figure out whether the only real way to make property semi-passive is having a genuinely solid PM in place.

For people here with rentals - does it actually become passive at some point, or is that mostly a myth?

submitted by /u/maxrain30
[link] [comments]", "comments": [ { "id": "t1_opd9q3m", "author": "/u/AutoModerator", "updated": "2026-06-02T18:36:40+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tuzy9u/owning_rentals_has_been_way_less_passive_than/opd9q3m/", "content": "Check out the Community Highlights for current and future Mod Vetted opportunities and Newsletter Episodes.\n Please do due diligence on any crypto opportunity. A simple google search could save you a fortune.\n I am a bot, and this action was performed automatically. Please contact the moderators of this subreddit if you have any questions or concerns." }, { "id": "t1_opdvwik", "author": "/u/Sanjomo", "updated": "2026-06-02T20:17:09+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tuzy9u/owning_rentals_has_been_way_less_passive_than/opdvwik/", "content": "I’ve owned a rental investment for about a decade, putting it on the market next month because I have gotten sick of the management aspect. It’s definitely one of those “when it rains it pours” situations. Can go 20 months without having to do much more than collect rent… then in a span of 60 days it’s ‘you need a new oven, new HVAC, there’s a leak in the ceiling the fence blew over in a storm”." }, { "id": "t1_opdxsai", "author": "/u/Minimum_Finish_5436", "updated": "2026-06-02T20:25:42+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tuzy9u/owning_rentals_has_been_way_less_passive_than/opdxsai/", "content": "This. And a single major expense can wipe out years of any make believe profits. It wasn't worth it and we sold out back in 2016." }, { "id": "t1_opgaume", "author": "/u/FluffyLaurels", "updated": "2026-06-03T04:16:51+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tuzy9u/owning_rentals_has_been_way_less_passive_than/opgaume/", "content": "property appreciation carries the returns way more than monthly cashflow ever could which is why selling after a decade beats squeezing out rent money every single month" }, { "id": "t1_opfofyz", "author": "/u/Certain-Ideal-1946", "updated": "2026-06-03T01:56:58+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tuzy9u/owning_rentals_has_been_way_less_passive_than/opfofyz/", "content": "This is exactly why we didn't keep our first place as a rental when we were looking at buying a house after we were married. Running the DCF #'s didn't make it worth it. The only thing that made it worth it was selling it after 10 years which would likely be a long and hard 10 years with too much risk." }, { "id": "t1_opdzt6z", "author": "/u/Sanjomo", "updated": "2026-06-02T20:35:01+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tuzy9u/owning_rentals_has_been_way_less_passive_than/opdzt6z/", "content": "For us, In the long run it was a great investment! We bought in 2011. We will likely double our money in the sale. 🤞🏽 But it’s hit its pinnacle in profit and the pains of management have worn thin. It’s a long play investment for sure." }, { "id": "t1_ope02xk", "author": "/u/Minimum_Finish_5436", "updated": "2026-06-02T20:36:16+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tuzy9u/owning_rentals_has_been_way_less_passive_than/ope02xk/", "content": "And you would have been far better off simply in an sp500 index fund. It has had a nominal return of 570% since 2011. You made a bad investment." }, { "id": "t1_opegang", "author": "/u/Sanjomo", "updated": "2026-06-02T21:54:06+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tuzy9u/owning_rentals_has_been_way_less_passive_than/opegang/", "content": "You’re an idiot. I didn’t have the money to put into a SP500 index. I used a low interest loan (with a huge first time buyer tax credit) to buy a property. After I pay off the loan I will have doubled my money. Debt payments are guaranteed market returns are not, any financial professional will tell you to not use loans to invest in the markets (not to mention most lenders won’t let you)\n And I also had a roof over my head for 5 of those years. 🙄" }, { "id": "t1_opeqq9o", "author": "/u/Minimum_Finish_5436", "updated": "2026-06-02T22:48:08+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tuzy9u/owning_rentals_has_been_way_less_passive_than/opeqq9o/", "content": "I know math is hard. Show me your math. I gave you the literal return on the sp500 during the period. Poster said they "doubled our money".\n Well the same money would have more than 5x. I owned rentals during part of the same period. I know how rental management works. I know depreciation, rent rates, vacancies etc. I also know how index funds have done before and since.\n Again, show me your math since you haven't offered any. Not make believe math. All the math. Management, maintenance, taxes, insurance, interest, taxes, etc. I promise. Math doesn't lie." }, { "id": "t1_operi9y", "author": "/u/Sanjomo", "updated": "2026-06-02T22:52:16+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tuzy9u/owning_rentals_has_been_way_less_passive_than/operi9y/", "content": "What part of didn’t have the money to invest into the market are you not understanding guy?" }, { "id": "t1_opf943r", "author": "/u/kriisg1022", "updated": "2026-06-03T00:29:40+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tuzy9u/owning_rentals_has_been_way_less_passive_than/opf943r/", "content": "he put only the closing cost down and use other people's money to finance the deal. If he got 200k that's another story. I know some people that will use the 200k to buy a house instead of s&p500." }, { "id": "t1_opfbbow", "author": "/u/Minimum_Finish_5436", "updated": "2026-06-03T00:42:22+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tuzy9u/owning_rentals_has_been_way_less_passive_than/opfbbow/", "content": "The poster said they doubled their money. I didn't say that. I said the same amount of money could have done multiplea of that return.\n Assume they put $100k of their money in. Whatever the source. Now double it and you get. . . $200k.\n Now take the same $100k and put it in the sp500. Now do the math and tell me what you get. Pick any day in 2011 you want and end it yesterday.\n Then tell me I am not good at math.\n I didn't say the posted doubled their money. The poster did. Whatever amount they put into this reddit hypothetical real estate headache, they doubled. And any amount you put in and left in the sp500 did multiples of that. Period.\n Now do your math and prove me wrong." }, { "id": "t1_opfrnv8", "author": "/u/Prudent-Choices", "updated": "2026-06-03T02:15:22+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tuzy9u/owning_rentals_has_been_way_less_passive_than/opfrnv8/", "content": "Yeah. You’re ’assuming’ shit in your claim. The Obama first time home deal was offering 0% down through the VA and USDA … If they didn’t put any money down they made out. You can’t buy into the market with 0 money down. Either way to call that a ‘bad investment’ makes you look like a simp." }, { "id": "t1_ophhpec", "author": "/u/Plcoomer", "updated": "2026-06-03T10:04:25+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tuzy9u/owning_rentals_has_been_way_less_passive_than/ophhpec/", "content": "Wonder why people avoid you?" }, { "id": "t1_opftwrt", "author": "/u/BigPicklr", "updated": "2026-06-03T02:28:26+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tuzy9u/owning_rentals_has_been_way_less_passive_than/opftwrt/", "content": "Dumbass lol" }, { "id": "t1_ophhhlf", "author": "/u/Plcoomer", "updated": "2026-06-03T10:02:43+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tuzy9u/owning_rentals_has_been_way_less_passive_than/ophhhlf/", "content": "Dipshit you made that up. He started with no investment. No money" }, { "id": "t1_opeimr6", "author": "/u/etTuPlutus", "updated": "2026-06-02T22:06:02+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tuzy9u/owning_rentals_has_been_way_less_passive_than/opeimr6/", "content": "You are ignoring the rental income and the fact most real estate investments are financed. Assuming they made a 20% downpayment with a reasonable rate for the time period, and managed to largely cover expenses with the gross rent income, then they actually came out ahead of the S&P500 by a healthy margin." }, { "id": "t1_opensoj", "author": "/u/Minimum_Finish_5436", "updated": "2026-06-02T22:32:38+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tuzy9u/owning_rentals_has_been_way_less_passive_than/opensoj/", "content": "I stand by my m .ath. I have owned rentals. During the same period except maybe in a few edge cases there isn't a wayq this investment outpaced the same money in the market." }, { "id": "t1_opf6gfb", "author": "/u/etTuPlutus", "updated": "2026-06-03T00:14:46+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tuzy9u/owning_rentals_has_been_way_less_passive_than/opf6gfb/", "content": "It's not how you stand by your math...\n You calculate return based on the actual principal you put into the investment, not the total market value of the investment at purchase time.\n If you suggest someone made a bad investment by buying in 2011 in front of actual financial/investment pros you will get laughed out of the room. Back then, even with all the post recession uncertainty, we knew we were making out like bandits if we could get the financing. I had one that I sold and netted >1500% over 15 years on because I got into a loan that only required 3.5% down." }, { "id": "t1_opf7vjh", "author": "/u/Sanjomo", "updated": "2026-06-03T00:22:46+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tuzy9u/owning_rentals_has_been_way_less_passive_than/opf7vjh/", "content": "Thank you! This is exactly correct!" }, { "id": "t1_oper4t0", "author": "/u/Prudent-Choices", "updated": "2026-06-02T22:50:17+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tuzy9u/owning_rentals_has_been_way_less_passive_than/oper4t0/", "content": "Dude. They used a loan to buy the property. How are you going to compare that to investing in the market? If you don’t have 500k to invest in the market a low interest home loan doubling returns in 13 years is very good. There is a reason why real estate and home ownership is the main way Americans increase wealth. Not to mention that same investment also covers the biggest expense most people have (a place to live) which stocks do not." }, { "id": "t1_operxip", "author": "/u/Minimum_Finish_5436", "updated": "2026-06-02T22:54:30+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tuzy9u/owning_rentals_has_been_way_less_passive_than/operxip/", "content": "Yeah. I know how real estate works. Thanks for the mansplaining.\n The poster also used it as a primary residence so back that part out. Back out the tax free first time howner grant they used. Back out the recapture on the sell side assuming they don't meet the residency requirements. Then come talk to me. Stating you "doubled your money".\n Great. You could have 5x the same money and rented." }, { "id": "t1_opevta5", "author": "/u/Sanjomo", "updated": "2026-06-02T23:15:24+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tuzy9u/owning_rentals_has_been_way_less_passive_than/opevta5/", "content": "Once again. You’re completely ignoring the fact the money used to buy the investment was through a LOAN. You’re comparing the returns on 500k worth of stocks…. Which you can’t buy on loans. So you’re using a hypothetical investment of money that was not there to invest. You seem to be struggling with that notion. lol.\n So take 0-3% down first time home owner credit. And that’s theoretically what could have been invested in the market. Minus out the yearly tax hits on dividends as income plus having to pay rent and the SP gains is….? You say ‘trust me bro I owned rental property too” lol. Which means 1. You also invested into property and 2. You think all property investments are the same. The returns/losses you saw are the same across the board. 🙄 some folks clearly need mansplaning." }, { "id": "t1_opfas8n", "author": "/u/Minimum_Finish_5436", "updated": "2026-06-03T00:39:16+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tuzy9u/owning_rentals_has_been_way_less_passive_than/opfas8n/", "content": "I never mentioned amounts at all. Only the return for the same period. I am not ignoring anything. Show me the math on the situation. I'll wait." }, { "id": "t1_ophh79y", "author": "/u/Plcoomer", "updated": "2026-06-03T10:00:27+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tuzy9u/owning_rentals_has_been_way_less_passive_than/ophh79y/", "content": "Think deeper" }, { "id": "t1_ope3ock", "author": "/u/poohdawg_789", "updated": "2026-06-02T20:52:51+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tuzy9u/owning_rentals_has_been_way_less_passive_than/ope3ock/", "content": "Have 3 units. this is true." }, { "id": "t1_opengcg", "author": "/u/Relevant_Editor_7503", "updated": "2026-06-02T22:30:51+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tuzy9u/owning_rentals_has_been_way_less_passive_than/opengcg/", "content": "Yup" }, { "id": "t1_opew6hc", "author": "/u/Virgo0084", "updated": "2026-06-02T23:17:25+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tuzy9u/owning_rentals_has_been_way_less_passive_than/opew6hc/", "content": "Well said. I've got 3 properties and it's exactly this way. However we have not switched to PM necessary going it ourselves has been more profitable. We collect much better rents than is we have it off to PM." }, { "id": "t1_ope794z", "author": "/u/MentalIllustrator652", "updated": "2026-06-02T21:09:47+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tuzy9u/owning_rentals_has_been_way_less_passive_than/ope794z/", "content": "Yeah “passive” is super oversold with rentals. It’s more like “a second part time job that pays well if you don’t screw it up.”\n It gets less hands on once you’ve:\n 1) screened tenants properly\n 2) fixed all the legacy / surprise issues\n 3) found a PM who isn’t useless\n Even then you’re still making decisions, answering emails, reviewing statements, planning big repairs. It’s leverageable income, not set and forget money while you sip cocktails on a beach." }, { "id": "t1_opgsdnc", "author": "/u/MonkeyzzPaw", "updated": "2026-06-03T06:28:42+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tuzy9u/owning_rentals_has_been_way_less_passive_than/opgsdnc/", "content": "I would argue that anyone who looks into it knows that being a landlord isn’t passive, and if you hear someone saying it is you should immediate discount the stance" }, { "id": "t1_ope2qfs", "author": "/u/01Cloud01", "updated": "2026-06-02T20:48:30+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tuzy9u/owning_rentals_has_been_way_less_passive_than/ope2qfs/", "content": "Don’t forget about accounting. I recently had a tree fall down on my rental my tenant was without power for a week while I had to hunt down quotes and consult with the insurance company found someone that was able to do the repair for a reasonable cost. But now I’m out 2 years worth of forecasted cash flow and the property has lost value since purchase in 23. Stressful situation and yes, it’s not as passive as people think." }, { "id": "t1_opfq5lj", "author": "/u/Make_That_Money", "updated": "2026-06-03T02:06:42+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tuzy9u/owning_rentals_has_been_way_less_passive_than/opfq5lj/", "content": "I bought my first rental at 22, 4 years ago. I got a quality property with solid tenants and it’s still not passive. I agree that rentals are way oversold as passive income, and honestly it’s part of the reason why I thought buying one was a good idea. I couldn’t imagine owning a run down property, in a bad area, with low credit score renters.\n One aspect people don’t seem to understand is that even if everything seems to be running smoothly, you’re always “on call”. The tenants can call you at any moment for some type of emergency that you have to drop everything and address like a burst pipe for example. You’ll walk into a situation you probably haven’t seen before and will need to figure it out on the fly. Property management companies are extremely overpriced and mark up everything so you really do have to self manage if you want to make any sort of return." }, { "id": "t1_opeqoms", "author": "/u/gordeliusmaximus", "updated": "2026-06-02T22:47:53+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tuzy9u/owning_rentals_has_been_way_less_passive_than/opeqoms/", "content": "There was a time where rentals and flips house were handled more by folks who knew the trades and being handy was the perfect fit when owning a rental or remodeling a property. Nowadays everyone wants to be an “investor” and I feel like it has ruined the space. I know folks can learn to do repairs and the like, but I grew up learning from being around my family who were in the trades and had rentals and remodeled homes. It drives me crazy when I see a “ how don’t fix this” post and it’s a door knob or a faucet in a rental. Not to sound like an ass, but in my mind knowing a thing or 2 should be prerequisite to owning a rental. Yes, they are work and not passive. Also, maybe housing would be more affordable if everyone didn’t have a rental as an investment that they don’t want visit ior work on I guess this a stay in your lane paragraph. Yes, I have several rentals and I do all the work. Tomorrow I’ll be under the floor of a house taking the AC unit apart to clean the coils and the condensation line. Then redoing the silicone in the tub all neat like. Also, mow the grass too." }, { "id": "t1_opemy3u", "author": "/u/fumbler00ski", "updated": "2026-06-02T22:28:14+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tuzy9u/owning_rentals_has_been_way_less_passive_than/opemy3u/", "content": "Definitely not passive but can still be a worthwhile investment.\n Lived in a condo for 10 years, have rented it out for the past 10. Will be my kid’s college fund. Financed at 2.75%. Have had to put about $20k into it over the past ten years to replace the HVAC, appliances, and redo floors/repaint. It’s always been at least break even from a cash flow standpoint, now generates decent income. May even hold on to it instead of sell when college comes at me in six years.\n The key is to live close to the unit, be at least somewhat handy, and screen tenants hard. In 10+ years have only had 3 tenants. Turnover is the real killer." }, { "id": "t1_opesqe2", "author": "/u/23andburnside", "updated": "2026-06-02T22:58:47+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tuzy9u/owning_rentals_has_been_way_less_passive_than/opesqe2/", "content": "I know a multimillionaire who owned several investment properties. All this outside of his already stressful corporate career. He said he would never do it again. Sold everything off and put it into $SPY." }, { "id": "t1_opfwtam", "author": "/u/MediocreDesigner88", "updated": "2026-06-03T02:45:30+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tuzy9u/owning_rentals_has_been_way_less_passive_than/opfwtam/", "content": "I can’t wait for people to stop treating human housing as an investment opportunity. 💀" }, { "id": "t1_opebnay", "author": "/u/Beautiful_Cost_5430", "updated": "2026-06-02T21:31:01+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tuzy9u/owning_rentals_has_been_way_less_passive_than/opebnay/", "content": "Yeah that’s why I sold all of my rentals and put it all in the market. Superior returns and no work except minor rebalancing" }, { "id": "t1_opfvqj0", "author": "/u/yourfavoritedentist", "updated": "2026-06-03T02:39:06+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tuzy9u/owning_rentals_has_been_way_less_passive_than/opfvqj0/", "content": "Exactly what I did. only had 3 doors but I hated it." }, { "id": "t1_opewwtd", "author": "/u/drsmith48170", "updated": "2026-06-02T23:21:25+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tuzy9u/owning_rentals_has_been_way_less_passive_than/opewwtd/", "content": "In my experience, no just a myth. Owned a short term vacation rental , and the nearly 7 years we owned it, literally always something every month. Stuff missing, stuff broken, house needing repair.\n Yeah, we hired a rental management company- their fees plus mortgage and insurance took 60 to 70 plus percent of revenue. Plus the fact is if your account rep is bad, it is almost better to not have a management company. First one was great, but after Covid they kept getting worse and worse. We had to constantly follow up with them, so no even if you hire a management company rental property IMO isn’t really passive at all, especially if you own multiple units" }, { "id": "t1_opf9y0o", "author": "/u/seeking_answers007", "updated": "2026-06-03T00:34:27+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tuzy9u/owning_rentals_has_been_way_less_passive_than/opf9y0o/", "content": "Getting 2 boiler replacement right now 😂" }, { "id": "t1_opfh355", "author": "/u/Flashy_Cucumber_3492", "updated": "2026-06-03T01:14:44+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tuzy9u/owning_rentals_has_been_way_less_passive_than/opfh355/", "content": "I agree, it ebbs and flows but things are always need attention. As a landlord, one bad tenant and honestly it can be a nightmare." }, { "id": "t1_opfivbs", "author": "/u/Wonderful_Shame_4986", "updated": "2026-06-03T01:25:00+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tuzy9u/owning_rentals_has_been_way_less_passive_than/opfivbs/", "content": "Social media oversell passive income in general!" }, { "id": "t1_opdqocj", "author": "/u/cockatootattoo", "updated": "2026-06-02T19:53:07+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tuzy9u/owning_rentals_has_been_way_less_passive_than/opdqocj/", "content": "I pay an agent. It’s definitely passive income for me. At most, I have to answer an email once or twice a month." }, { "id": "t1_ope3b7f", "author": "/u/largos7289", "updated": "2026-06-02T20:51:10+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tuzy9u/owning_rentals_has_been_way_less_passive_than/ope3b7f/", "content": "Your first one isn't much in the sense of passive, in fact sometimes it's invasive LOL. The trick to that is to build up your portfolio with other properties, then hire a mgmt company to do the heavy work. Until then it's you doing it. I was in a group of guys that bought and sold properties for a living. We did OK till 2008 then it all imploded. I didn't make it because i didn't have enough investment in, Bob the second guy held out for longer, Jeff the Sr guy did fine." }, { "id": "t1_opefjj3", "author": "/u/fairchyld0666", "updated": "2026-06-02T21:50:21+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tuzy9u/owning_rentals_has_been_way_less_passive_than/opefjj3/", "content": "Most people pay agencys to handle that stuff, thats when it gets passive" }, { "id": "t1_opf9c0a", "author": "/u/PhoneRoutine", "updated": "2026-06-03T00:30:56+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tuzy9u/owning_rentals_has_been_way_less_passive_than/opf9c0a/", "content": "We bought a house in Oct 2019 (talk about timing!). We moved out of state after 3 yrs and I put that property on rental. I have a rental PM that cares of it and I pay them 10% of rent. They handle everything. The 10% cost is part of operating cost and saves me so much hassle" }, { "id": "t1_opfa94o", "author": "/u/Chloepiper331", "updated": "2026-06-03T00:36:13+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tuzy9u/owning_rentals_has_been_way_less_passive_than/opfa94o/", "content": "Curious if yours is a long term rental or more of an airbnb style?" }, { "id": "t1_opfd8ox", "author": "/u/conicalconehead", "updated": "2026-06-03T00:53:02+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tuzy9u/owning_rentals_has_been_way_less_passive_than/opfd8ox/", "content": "When I bought my house it came with two additional units. Even though we had good tenants it was a pain having them. Always something to deal with. Since I am not handy that also meant constantly scheduling contractors. My feeling was that the best way to do this would be to have enough properties that you could hire someone or a company to manage all that for you." }, { "id": "t1_opfohy6", "author": "/u/dcgradc", "updated": "2026-06-03T01:57:16+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tuzy9u/owning_rentals_has_been_way_less_passive_than/opfohy6/", "content": "I had 9 rentals for 10 years .\n 3 were in a different state\n Very little management . I was responsive\n My method was to have a handyman + hvac technician (companies are crooks)\n I was told that I managed the OH property better than the previous owner who worked next door .\n My policy is to only buy prime property next to a Starbucks or Trader Joe's." }, { "id": "t1_opfsq7t", "author": "/u/adonde007", "updated": "2026-06-03T02:21:33+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tuzy9u/owning_rentals_has_been_way_less_passive_than/opfsq7t/", "content": "Always do commercial properties. Business are usually there only m-f weekends off, holidays off etc. Depending where your located commercial properties are big money. Well worth it" }, { "id": "t1_opgkn51", "author": "/u/Salty-Preference-314", "updated": "2026-06-03T05:28:06+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tuzy9u/owning_rentals_has_been_way_less_passive_than/opgkn51/", "content": "How do you go about getting into commercial property investment ?" }, { "id": "t1_opfug1w", "author": "/u/TheRealJim57", "updated": "2026-06-03T02:31:32+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tuzy9u/owning_rentals_has_been_way_less_passive_than/opfug1w/", "content": "Hiring a property manager who handles all of that routine stuff for you makes it largely passive." }, { "id": "t1_opfvuj4", "author": "/u/Any-Tennis4658", "updated": "2026-06-03T02:39:45+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tuzy9u/owning_rentals_has_been_way_less_passive_than/opfvuj4/", "content": "Have a decent size portfolio, pay down the debts, then hand off to property management. Completely passive.\n My portfolio is almost built out, but takes a long time. Two more purchases and off to property management it goes.\n First two years of profits are always flushed. After that it's 15 years of profit, followed by two years flushed. I'm not greedy, I'm good with these numbers.\n I am 50/50 real estate and markets.\n The current market is very tough though I'll be honest. I want to buy another right now but the numbers don't make sense." }, { "id": "t1_opfxedu", "author": "/u/ezreal3k", "updated": "2026-06-03T02:49:01+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tuzy9u/owning_rentals_has_been_way_less_passive_than/opfxedu/", "content": "I got a property in 2017. And it took me 5 years to find a strong and good tenant that is willing to do the work for me after I rented to her entire family. If I did that the first year it would be stupid. But after 5 years I knew the tenant well and allow her extended family to rent in my units. It was a 3 unit house.\n Right now I just make a few phone calls month. And collect rent that doesn’t make my life completed. Just a nice small boost to life unless I buy more property," }, { "id": "t1_opg33eq", "author": "/u/Jsaun906", "updated": "2026-06-03T03:24:59+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tuzy9u/owning_rentals_has_been_way_less_passive_than/opg33eq/", "content": "there's a reason property management is a full-time profession" }, { "id": "t1_opgcjlh", "author": "/u/living_dah_dream", "updated": "2026-06-03T04:28:42+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tuzy9u/owning_rentals_has_been_way_less_passive_than/opgcjlh/", "content": "Rentals are definitely "hands on," unless you are happy paying most of the profits away to others." }, { "id": "t1_opgizh2", "author": "/u/Aware-Turnover6088", "updated": "2026-06-03T05:15:32+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tuzy9u/owning_rentals_has_been_way_less_passive_than/opgizh2/", "content": "I would've thought it obvious that having a rental is anything but passive. There's always something that can go wrong, something needs fixing, bad tenants and so on. The more properties you have the more these problems occur." }, { "id": "t1_opgmlr0", "author": "/u/drcigg", "updated": "2026-06-03T05:43:12+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tuzy9u/owning_rentals_has_been_way_less_passive_than/opgmlr0/", "content": "My uncle owns over 150 units and does this full time. He collects the rent, does themaintenance himself and I don't know how he does it. He said he wouldn't change a thing though." }, { "id": "t1_opgrjw3", "author": "/u/Aleluvscp", "updated": "2026-06-03T06:22:01+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tuzy9u/owning_rentals_has_been_way_less_passive_than/opgrjw3/", "content": "You're right, property management is pretty time consuming and you have to wear a lot of hats!\n I'm a trained and experienced project manager, who enjoys this work, and I'd be happy to help you and your tenants. If you decide to go for it, drop me a message :)" }, { "id": "t1_opgujzh", "author": "/u/_The_Green_Machine", "updated": "2026-06-03T06:46:12+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tuzy9u/owning_rentals_has_been_way_less_passive_than/opgujzh/", "content": "Honestly these situations work best when you can afford a property manager and still make a profit. Being taken away from your full time job or other responsibilities can diminish the return on investment both qualitatively and quantitatively" }, { "id": "t1_opgy9r2", "author": "/u/AmexNomad", "updated": "2026-06-03T07:16:44+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tuzy9u/owning_rentals_has_been_way_less_passive_than/opgy9r2/", "content": "Anyone who thinks that owning rental property is passive, has likely never owned rental property- especially residential. Even the NNNs that I own take a bit of oversight." }, { "id": "t1_oph1x8f", "author": "/u/PassiveYield_Daily", "updated": "2026-06-03T07:48:16+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tuzy9u/owning_rentals_has_been_way_less_passive_than/oph1x8f/", "content": "[ Removed by Reddit ]" }, { "id": "t1_ophj15q", "author": "/u/dblattack", "updated": "2026-06-03T10:14:42+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tuzy9u/owning_rentals_has_been_way_less_passive_than/ophj15q/", "content": "It's more like a charity. I renovate them for free, tenants get to wreck them and then rinse and repeat" }, { "id": "t1_opdwmb2", "author": "/u/Candid_Cat_5921", "updated": "2026-06-02T20:20:25+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tuzy9u/owning_rentals_has_been_way_less_passive_than/opdwmb2/", "content": "I rent out an RV pad and it’s passive. $1250 a month and my only task is watching for rent.\n I also rent out a house. The house is definitely not passive. Have to deal with annoying tenants asking for a bunch of free/extra stuff, have to schedule repairs/upkeep, deal with insurance adjustments more often, etc etc. I would definitely not consider it passive. But maybe it depends a lot on the tenant. I’ve just always had really needy tenants with house rentals." } ] }, { "source": "r/passive_income hot", "id": "t3_1tv0f42", "title": "made 2 bands last month clipping and it might be the best roi side income out there", "author": "/u/DarfleChorf", "updated": "2026-06-02T18:52:46+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tv0f42/made_2_bands_last_month_clipping_and_it_might_be/", "content": "I've been clipping Roy Lee, the founder of Cluely for almost 4 months now, and just got a max payout of 2k USD,\n context: I have been clipping for maybe 2 years now and it is truly insanse how much money is getting invested in this space, I used to only be able to make 1k and I had to work more than what I thought like 15+ hours, but because of how good AI has gotten and how much money is in the space I can get double the money while working less than 4h a week.\n get into clipping, you have many ways to do so, but If I had to break it down, one get good at doing basic editing go see how people edit viral clips especially streamers they have a lot of clippers, then after that find places where people are looking for clippers, if you want to do like I do for Roy Lee, its on an app called Bounty, but you have plenty of other apps like content rewards, billo, and more\n submitted by /u/DarfleChorf\n [link] [comments]", "contentHtml": "
\"made

I've been clipping Roy Lee, the founder of Cluely for almost 4 months now, and just got a max payout of 2k USD,

context: I have been clipping for maybe 2 years now and it is truly insanse how much money is getting invested in this space, I used to only be able to make 1k and I had to work more than what I thought like 15+ hours, but because of how good AI has gotten and how much money is in the space I can get double the money while working less than 4h a week.

get into clipping, you have many ways to do so, but If I had to break it down, one get good at doing basic editing go see how people edit viral clips especially streamers they have a lot of clippers, then after that find places where people are looking for clippers, if you want to do like I do for Roy Lee, its on an app called Bounty, but you have plenty of other apps like content rewards, billo, and more

submitted by /u/DarfleChorf
[link] [comments]
", "comments": [ { "id": "t1_opdde1c", "author": "/u/AutoModerator", "updated": "2026-06-02T18:52:48+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tv0f42/made_2_bands_last_month_clipping_and_it_might_be/opdde1c/", "content": "Check out the Community Highlights for current and future Mod Vetted opportunities and Newsletter Episodes.\n Please do due diligence on any crypto opportunity. A simple google search could save you a fortune.\n I am a bot, and this action was performed automatically. Please contact the moderators of this subreddit if you have any questions or concerns." }, { "id": "t1_opfnsn4", "author": "/u/thing85", "updated": "2026-06-03T01:53:18+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tv0f42/made_2_bands_last_month_clipping_and_it_might_be/opfnsn4/", "content": "Is every post on this sub just a subtle way for people to promote their own shit?" }, { "id": "t1_opgedbb", "author": "/u/Murdathon3000", "updated": "2026-06-03T04:41:49+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tv0f42/made_2_bands_last_month_clipping_and_it_might_be/opgedbb/", "content": "99.9% of the posts on this sub are the same formula. Soft pitch on a path to income, plausible setup, name drop some service no one has heard of as being the key to unlocking the ease of said setup, and always from an OP with their profile set to private. Mother fuckers still fall for it every time." }, { "id": "t1_opdenym", "author": "/u/ImpressiveGazelle628", "updated": "2026-06-02T18:58:22+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tv0f42/made_2_bands_last_month_clipping_and_it_might_be/opdenym/", "content": "damn that's nice ROI for only 4 hours week, might check this out since i'm already doing some video editing in my free time anyway" }, { "id": "t1_opdzg0r", "author": "/u/DarfleChorf", "updated": "2026-06-02T20:33:19+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tv0f42/made_2_bands_last_month_clipping_and_it_might_be/opdzg0r/", "content": "yeah its honestly the best ROI, if you want to actually do this, use this code 0I5PPIH3 when you sign up on bounty.app platform, so you can get approved fast" }, { "id": "t1_ope3qvk", "author": "/u/sampizza", "updated": "2026-06-02T20:53:11+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tv0f42/made_2_bands_last_month_clipping_and_it_might_be/ope3qvk/", "content": "Do you upload to instagram or tik tok ?" }, { "id": "t1_ope3yeh", "author": "/u/lilrichie_9", "updated": "2026-06-02T20:54:08+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tv0f42/made_2_bands_last_month_clipping_and_it_might_be/ope3yeh/", "content": "Do you only use capcut for the edits and no other AI too?" }, { "id": "t1_opffrjl", "author": "/u/Technorasta", "updated": "2026-06-03T01:07:18+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tv0f42/made_2_bands_last_month_clipping_and_it_might_be/opffrjl/", "content": "Sorry but what does ‘clipping Roy Lee’ mean?" }, { "id": "t1_opfnmtw", "author": "/u/MichelinStarZombie", "updated": "2026-06-03T01:52:21+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tv0f42/made_2_bands_last_month_clipping_and_it_might_be/opfnmtw/", "content": "It's a toenail clipping service. They got a toenail clipping van and everything." }, { "id": "t1_opdklbw", "author": "/u/chemwaste", "updated": "2026-06-02T19:25:08+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tv0f42/made_2_bands_last_month_clipping_and_it_might_be/opdklbw/", "content": "What apps are you using for editing?" }, { "id": "t1_opdyafa", "author": "/u/DarfleChorf", "updated": "2026-06-02T20:28:01+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tv0f42/made_2_bands_last_month_clipping_and_it_might_be/opdyafa/", "content": "just capcut for the edits honestly" }, { "id": "t1_opglgpd", "author": "/u/CareAccomplished9013", "updated": "2026-06-03T05:34:23+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tv0f42/made_2_bands_last_month_clipping_and_it_might_be/opglgpd/", "content": "Took me way too long to realize this wasnt about cutting hair" }, { "id": "t1_opgomsx", "author": "/u/Casper-_-00B", "updated": "2026-06-03T05:58:49+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tv0f42/made_2_bands_last_month_clipping_and_it_might_be/opgomsx/", "content": "4 month = 692 hr / 2k = made 2.89 per hour\n not even minimum wage" }, { "id": "t1_oph1gxs", "author": "/u/Adventurous_Box1313", "updated": "2026-06-03T07:44:18+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tv0f42/made_2_bands_last_month_clipping_and_it_might_be/oph1gxs/", "content": "4 hrs a week= 16hrs a monthx4months=64 hours 2,000/64=31.25hr?????" }, { "id": "t1_ophafsv", "author": "/u/Casper-_-00B", "updated": "2026-06-03T09:03:09+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tv0f42/made_2_bands_last_month_clipping_and_it_might_be/ophafsv/", "content": "He said he worked 4 months to get 2 k you gotta start from there" }, { "id": "t1_opfqg0u", "author": "/u/miliseconds", "updated": "2026-06-03T02:08:22+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tv0f42/made_2_bands_last_month_clipping_and_it_might_be/opfqg0u/", "content": "You mentioned Bounty. Isn't that platform for user-generated content? They don't allow clipped content from other creators as far as I know. Could you elaborate?" }, { "id": "t1_oph14jo", "author": "/u/lookatcurren", "updated": "2026-06-03T07:41:19+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tv0f42/made_2_bands_last_month_clipping_and_it_might_be/oph14jo/", "content": "Is that you Ling Long?" } ] }, { "source": "r/passive_income hot", "id": "t3_1tvg1p9", "title": "Are there any genuinely low-competition passive income ideas that don't require a huge investment?", "author": "/u/wpWax", "updated": "2026-06-03T05:38:20+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tvg1p9/are_there_any_genuinely_lowcompetition_passive/", "content": "Every time I search for passive income ideas, I keep seeing the same answers:\n\n- Start a YouTube channel\n- Build a social media audience\n- Invest in real estate\n- Trade stocks/crypto The problem is that most of these either require a lot of capital, a huge audience, or they end up becoming a full-time job.\n I'm more interested in something that:\n\n- Has relatively low competition\n- Has real demand\n- Can be started with less than $500\n- Doesn't require constant daily work forever Not looking for a get-rich-quick scheme. Just curious if anyone has come across a less obvious opportunity that actually works.\n submitted by /u/wpWax\n [link] [comments]", "contentHtml": "

Every time I search for passive income ideas, I keep seeing the same answers:

The problem is that most of these either require a lot of capital, a huge audience, or they end up becoming a full-time job.

I'm more interested in something that:

Not looking for a get-rich-quick scheme. Just curious if anyone has come across a less obvious opportunity that actually works.

submitted by /u/wpWax
[link] [comments]", "comments": [ { "id": "t1_opglz4f", "author": "/u/AutoModerator", "updated": "2026-06-03T05:38:20+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tvg1p9/are_there_any_genuinely_lowcompetition_passive/opglz4f/", "content": "Check out the Community Highlights for current and future Mod Vetted opportunities and Newsletter Episodes.\n Please do due diligence on any crypto opportunity. A simple google search could save you a fortune.\n I am a bot, and this action was performed automatically. Please contact the moderators of this subreddit if you have any questions or concerns." }, { "id": "t1_opgnq3x", "author": "/u/enRinto", "updated": "2026-06-03T05:51:49+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tvg1p9/are_there_any_genuinely_lowcompetition_passive/opgnq3x/", "content": "If there was, they wouldnt tell you because they would get more competition lol" }, { "id": "t1_opgud1t", "author": "/u/Fazioli31", "updated": "2026-06-03T06:44:38+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tvg1p9/are_there_any_genuinely_lowcompetition_passive/opgud1t/", "content": "Yeah bro, sometimes you make money from businesses that aren't on social media." }, { "id": "t1_oph8pdd", "author": "/u/wpWax", "updated": "2026-06-03T08:47:52+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tvg1p9/are_there_any_genuinely_lowcompetition_passive/oph8pdd/", "content": "The bigger issue is that most people are looking for the easiest possible path. A lot of the less competitive opportunities usually involve a bit more upfront work, learning, or patience, so they get ignored. Sometimes doing the harder thing for a few months can produce better results than chasing the "easy passive income"" }, { "id": "t1_opgr3fi", "author": "/u/Sydney_girl_45", "updated": "2026-06-03T06:18:19+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tvg1p9/are_there_any_genuinely_lowcompetition_passive/opgr3fi/", "content": "If it's truly passive, profitable, low competition, and cheap to start, it won't stay low competition for long. The edge is usually in niche expertise, not the idea itself." }, { "id": "t1_opgpqxt", "author": "/u/annie_leonhartt", "updated": "2026-06-03T06:07:41+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tvg1p9/are_there_any_genuinely_lowcompetition_passive/opgpqxt/", "content": "most passive income isn't really passive at the start. i'd focus on building a small asset once, like a niche digital product or useful template, then improve it over time instead of chasing something that needs daily attention forever." }, { "id": "t1_oph96m5", "author": "/u/wpWax", "updated": "2026-06-03T08:52:05+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tvg1p9/are_there_any_genuinely_lowcompetition_passive/oph96m5/", "content": "Yeah, that makes sense, starting with a small asset and improving it over time feels a lot more realistic than chasing something that needs daily attention forever. Do you think that kind of approach works better with something like a niche website or directory-style asset, where the content can grow over time instead of starting from zero every day?" }, { "id": "t1_opgy9a2", "author": "/u/Pauliuss", "updated": "2026-06-03T07:16:37+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tvg1p9/are_there_any_genuinely_lowcompetition_passive/opgy9a2/", "content": "You can buy website from Flippa etc, with traffic and try to monetize\n If you know what you are doing." }, { "id": "t1_oph75rs", "author": "/u/GeneApprehensive9092", "updated": "2026-06-03T08:34:17+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tvg1p9/are_there_any_genuinely_lowcompetition_passive/oph75rs/", "content": "Try cost per click partners on cashback sites. Laguna network has a few. Low key go in and click a couple of times day = $5 per day" }, { "id": "t1_oph96d5", "author": "/u/Reasonable-Put8696", "updated": "2026-06-03T08:52:01+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tvg1p9/are_there_any_genuinely_lowcompetition_passive/oph96d5/", "content": "KDP nonfiction guides. Zero dollars to start, real demand, and the work is front-loaded. I wrote a couple niche guides on stuff I already knew from my day job. Still make a few hundred a month combined and I haven't touched them in over a year. You just look for niches where the existing books on Amazon have ugly covers and outdated info. That's where you get in." }, { "id": "t1_ophardb", "author": "/u/wpWax", "updated": "2026-06-03T09:05:57+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tvg1p9/are_there_any_genuinely_lowcompetition_passive/ophardb/", "content": "That's interesting because the opportunity you're describing isn't really KDP, it's finding a niche where the existing resources are outdated and improving them. Do you think the same logic could work with niche directories too? I've seen a lot of industries where the existing directories are abandoned or full of outdated listings, which feels like a similar opportunity." }, { "id": "t1_ophcnbw", "author": "/u/Reasonable-Put8696", "updated": "2026-06-03T09:22:27+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tvg1p9/are_there_any_genuinely_lowcompetition_passive/ophcnbw/", "content": "100% right, the niche-gap logic is the actual move and KDP is just one format. Directories could work the same way if you can monetize them. Main difference is books have a built-in marketplace where people already buy, so you skip the traffic problem. A directory you have to drive traffic yourself, which is a different skill entirely. But if you find a dead directory in a niche where businesses actually pay to be listed, same playbook." }, { "id": "t1_ophfqy6", "author": "/u/StraightAirline8319", "updated": "2026-06-03T09:48:45+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tvg1p9/are_there_any_genuinely_lowcompetition_passive/ophfqy6/", "content": "Yes" } ] }, { "source": "r/passive_income hot", "id": "t3_1tupdbs", "title": "I built a free offline POS system (No login, No subscription) while living in a Homeless shelter.", "author": "/u/Ready-Database8692", "updated": "2026-06-02T12:24:16+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tupdbs/i_built_a_free_offline_pos_system_no_login_no/", "content": "A few years ago I was working in retail, watching small sellers, market traders and side hustlers get crushed by expensive point of sale systems. Most charge from $10 to $399 a month + transactions fees + force accounts and constant internet. For someone running a weekend market stall, pop-up or small side business that’s brutal.\n So I built Vesseltill- a vessel for every seller- a completely free, browser based POS that needs zero login, zero subscription and works fully offline.\n What it does:\n - upload your existing Excel price list (.xlsx) -> products appear as tappable cards in seconds.\n - works on phone, tablet and desktop/laptop (install as PWA).\n - Barcode scanner supports or manually input barcode\n - cash, card or split payments with automatic change\n - WhatsApp receipts + PDF and email receipts 🧾\n - Stock tracking, refunds/ exchanges, staff tracking, end of day reports\n - 30+ currencies works anywhere in the world\n - All data stays on your device- nothing uploaded to the servers or cloud ☁️\n I built this while living in a homeless shelter. I have 14 years of retail experience and got tired of seeing small businesses pay recurring fees just to take money. Vesseltill is my answer to that.\n It’s not “passive income” by itself but it removes a major expense and friction point for people who are generating passive or semi-passive income through physical sales (markets, pop-ups, small retail, events, food stalls etc.).\n No subscription, ads or even premium upsells.\n You can try it at: vesseltill.com\n (Just open it, upload an Excel file or add the demo template on the page and start within 30 seconds)\n I’d love your feedback from this community - especially from people who sells at markets or run small physical side businesses.\n - Lourens De Jager (the guy who built it)\n -\n submitted by /u/Ready-Database8692\n [link] [comments]", "contentHtml": "
\"I

A few years ago I was working in retail, watching small sellers, market traders and side hustlers get crushed by expensive point of sale systems. Most charge from $10 to $399 a month + transactions fees + force accounts and constant internet. For someone running a weekend market stall, pop-up or small side business that’s brutal.

So I built Vesseltill- a vessel for every seller- a completely free, browser based POS that needs zero login, zero subscription and works fully offline.

What it does:
- upload your existing Excel price list (.xlsx) -> products appear as tappable cards in seconds.
- works on phone, tablet and desktop/laptop (install as PWA).
- Barcode scanner supports or manually input barcode
- cash, card or split payments with automatic change
- WhatsApp receipts + PDF and email receipts 🧾
- Stock tracking, refunds/ exchanges, staff tracking, end of day reports
- 30+ currencies works anywhere in the world
- All data stays on your device- nothing uploaded to the servers or cloud ☁️

I built this while living in a homeless shelter. I have 14 years of retail experience and got tired of seeing small businesses pay recurring fees just to take money. Vesseltill is my answer to that.

It’s not “passive income” by itself but it removes a major expense and friction point for people who are generating passive or semi-passive income through physical sales (markets, pop-ups, small retail, events, food stalls etc.).

No subscription, ads or even premium upsells.

You can try it at: vesseltill.com
(Just open it, upload an Excel file or add the demo template on the page and start within 30 seconds)

I’d love your feedback from this community - especially from people who sells at markets or run small physical side businesses.
- Lourens De Jager (the guy who built it)
-

submitted by /u/Ready-Database8692
[link] [comments]
", "comments": [ { "id": "t1_opb0hck", "author": "/u/AutoModerator", "updated": "2026-06-02T12:24:17+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tupdbs/i_built_a_free_offline_pos_system_no_login_no/opb0hck/", "content": "Check out the Community Highlights for current and future Mod Vetted opportunities and Newsletter Episodes.\n Please do due diligence on any crypto opportunity. A simple google search could save you a fortune.\n I am a bot, and this action was performed automatically. Please contact the moderators of this subreddit if you have any questions or concerns." }, { "id": "t1_opblc8f", "author": "/u/magichronx", "updated": "2026-06-02T14:10:40+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tupdbs/i_built_a_free_offline_pos_system_no_login_no/opblc8f/", "content": "This is pretty freakin' awesome. Nice work!\n One thing I'd suggest is to have Products tab separate the products by section/category. Also I noticed when downloading a PDF there's an issue with padding/spacing (it looks fine if you "Print PDF" though)" }, { "id": "t1_opbs0oc", "author": "/u/Ready-Database8692", "updated": "2026-06-02T14:41:36+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tupdbs/i_built_a_free_offline_pos_system_no_login_no/opbs0oc/", "content": "Thanks ☺️ those issues will be fixed later, I didn’t want to delay the project anymore because I’d rather have actual feedback than just guessing everything" }, { "id": "t1_opboa1u", "author": "/u/dudes_indian", "updated": "2026-06-02T14:24:22+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tupdbs/i_built_a_free_offline_pos_system_no_login_no/opboa1u/", "content": "How do you actually process the payments?" }, { "id": "t1_opbuiyo", "author": "/u/Ready-Database8692", "updated": "2026-06-02T14:52:58+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tupdbs/i_built_a_free_offline_pos_system_no_login_no/opbuiyo/", "content": "Vesseltill doesn’t process payments itself. It records sales and manages inventory, receipts and reporting. Card payments or digital are still handled by your existing payment provider or card machine." }, { "id": "t1_opburdp", "author": "/u/dudes_indian", "updated": "2026-06-02T14:54:01+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tupdbs/i_built_a_free_offline_pos_system_no_login_no/opburdp/", "content": "Ah yeah that makes a lot more sense. Is it still a POS if it doesn't do any of the sales though? Isn't it just well featured inventory management system?" }, { "id": "t1_opbyj73", "author": "/u/Ready-Database8692", "updated": "2026-06-02T15:11:01+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tupdbs/i_built_a_free_offline_pos_system_no_login_no/opbyj73/", "content": "A POS (Point of Sale) system is the software used at the point where a sale happens. Processing the payment is only one part of that process.\n Vesseltill handles product selection, cart management, barcode scanning, inventory tracking, receipts, refund, reporting and recording the sale. The actual card payment can be handled by whatever provider the business already uses.\n A lot of small businesses already have a card machine from their bank, so I designed Vesseltill to be payment provider agnostic rather than locking users into specific processor.\n So I’d describe it as a POS system with inventory management rather than just an inventory management system." }, { "id": "t1_opd54b5", "author": "/u/LooseReaction1147", "updated": "2026-06-02T18:16:24+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tupdbs/i_built_a_free_offline_pos_system_no_login_no/opd54b5/", "content": "The fact that you did this while living ina homeless shelter is quite impressive. Kudos to you OP." }, { "id": "t1_opeb995", "author": "/u/StrikeLike", "updated": "2026-06-02T21:29:06+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tupdbs/i_built_a_free_offline_pos_system_no_login_no/opeb995/", "content": "That’s a story to sell not the real story. Good luck with your product though!" }, { "id": "t1_opb3jsy", "author": "/u/Kooky_Outcome_5053", "updated": "2026-06-02T12:41:24+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tupdbs/i_built_a_free_offline_pos_system_no_login_no/opb3jsy/", "content": "who is Lourens De Jager ?" }, { "id": "t1_opb60l4", "author": "/u/Ready-Database8692", "updated": "2026-06-02T12:54:37+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tupdbs/i_built_a_free_offline_pos_system_no_login_no/opb60l4/", "content": "Not sure 🤔 🤣 (me)" }, { "id": "t1_opgn0vs", "author": "/u/imBuenoing", "updated": "2026-06-03T05:46:24+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tupdbs/i_built_a_free_offline_pos_system_no_login_no/opgn0vs/", "content": "Thanks for sharing. Appreciate the work you’ve put into this. Can this be open source? I’m looking for solutions more on client management, employee scheduling and services offer in a retail setting." }, { "id": "t1_opgnpbd", "author": "/u/Ready-Database8692", "updated": "2026-06-03T05:51:39+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tupdbs/i_built_a_free_offline_pos_system_no_login_no/opgnpbd/", "content": "Thank you, I will look into it later because I think this is only the be beginning I think a lot can be add like you mentioned a staff scheduling, also later multi-till something along those line." }, { "id": "t1_opbd7sk", "author": "/u/MarvelousBullion", "updated": "2026-06-02T13:31:12+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tupdbs/i_built_a_free_offline_pos_system_no_login_no/opbd7sk/", "content": "[ Removed by Reddit ]" } ] }, { "source": "r/passive_income hot", "id": "t3_1tvbwux", "title": "Looking for a business development/Sales partner", "author": "/u/Funny_Acanthaceae839", "updated": "2026-06-03T02:22:21+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tvbwux/looking_for_a_business_developmentsales_partner/", "content": "I run a growing IT agency specializing in:\n • Web Development • Mobile App Development (iOS & Android) • UI/UX Design • Cloud Solutions & DevOps • AI & Automation Solutions\n Im looking for a business development partner, sales professional, or well-connected individual who can help us bring qualified clients and projects.\n What i offer: High-quality delivery Experienced development and design team Transparent communication Attractive commission/revenue-sharing model for every successful deal\n Who im looking for: • Someone with an existing network of startups, SMBs, entrepreneurs, or enterprise contacts • Experience in B2B sales, lead generation, client acquisition, or partnerships • Able to introduce qualified prospects interested in software development, cloud, AI, or digital transformation services\n This is a long-term partnership opportunity with recurring earning potential.\n If you're interested, send me a DM with:\n\n- Your background and experience\n- Industries or markets you work with\n- How you typically generate leads or acquire clients Looking forward to connecting with motivated partners.\n submitted by /u/Funny_Acanthaceae839\n [link] [comments]", "contentHtml": "

I run a growing IT agency specializing in:

• Web Development • Mobile App Development (iOS & Android) • UI/UX Design • Cloud Solutions & DevOps • AI & Automation Solutions

Im looking for a business development partner, sales professional, or well-connected individual who can help us bring qualified clients and projects.

What i offer: High-quality delivery Experienced development and design team Transparent communication Attractive commission/revenue-sharing model for every successful deal

Who im looking for: • Someone with an existing network of startups, SMBs, entrepreneurs, or enterprise contacts • Experience in B2B sales, lead generation, client acquisition, or partnerships • Able to introduce qualified prospects interested in software development, cloud, AI, or digital transformation services

This is a long-term partnership opportunity with recurring earning potential.

If you're interested, send me a DM with:

  1. Your background and experience
  2. Industries or markets you work with
  3. How you typically generate leads or acquire clients

Looking forward to connecting with motivated partners.

submitted by /u/Funny_Acanthaceae839
[link] [comments]", "comments": [ { "id": "t1_opfsvd5", "author": "/u/AutoModerator", "updated": "2026-06-03T02:22:22+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tvbwux/looking_for_a_business_developmentsales_partner/opfsvd5/", "content": "Check out the Community Highlights for current and future Mod Vetted opportunities and Newsletter Episodes.\n Please do due diligence on any crypto opportunity. A simple google search could save you a fortune.\n I am a bot, and this action was performed automatically. Please contact the moderators of this subreddit if you have any questions or concerns." }, { "id": "t1_opg2egt", "author": "/u/Soumyar-Tripathy", "updated": "2026-06-03T03:20:27+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tvbwux/looking_for_a_business_developmentsales_partner/opg2egt/", "content": "[ Removed by Reddit ]" }, { "id": "t1_opg34jj", "author": "/u/ImaHalfwit", "updated": "2026-06-03T03:25:11+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tvbwux/looking_for_a_business_developmentsales_partner/opg34jj/", "content": "Long term until people realize they need one solid coder who has a Claude subscription. ;)" }, { "id": "t1_opgah3a", "author": "/u/FluffyLaurels", "updated": "2026-06-03T04:14:16+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tvbwux/looking_for_a_business_developmentsales_partner/opgah3a/", "content": "this is actually a solid play if you can find someone whos already got those enterprise relationships built up instead of cold calling randoms" } ] }, { "source": "r/passive_income hot", "id": "t3_1tvkhox", "title": "How does STR loans and rental income work?", "author": "/u/Enigmatic_Sberry6608", "updated": "2026-06-03T09:48:09+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tvkhox/how_does_str_loans_and_rental_income_work/", "content": "I’ve been trying to understand how people usually finance short-term rental properties. From what I’ve seen, some people rely on past rental income after operating a property for a while, while others mention that some lenders may look at expected rental income when making decisions. I’m just trying to learn how this works in practice. Has anyone here gone through this process? Does it actually make a difference when trying to grow a small rental portfolio, or is it mostly handled case by case? I’m just looking for general experiences or explanations from people who know about it.\n submitted by /u/Enigmatic_Sberry6608\n [link] [comments]", "contentHtml": "

I’ve been trying to understand how people usually finance short-term rental properties. From what I’ve seen, some people rely on past rental income after operating a property for a while, while others mention that some lenders may look at expected rental income when making decisions. I’m just trying to learn how this works in practice. Has anyone here gone through this process? Does it actually make a difference when trying to grow a small rental portfolio, or is it mostly handled case by case? I’m just looking for general experiences or explanations from people who know about it.

submitted by /u/Enigmatic_Sberry6608
[link] [comments]", "comments": [ { "id": "t1_ophfobm", "author": "/u/AutoModerator", "updated": "2026-06-03T09:48:09+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tvkhox/how_does_str_loans_and_rental_income_work/ophfobm/", "content": "Check out the Community Highlights for current and future Mod Vetted opportunities and Newsletter Episodes.\n Please do due diligence on any crypto opportunity. A simple google search could save you a fortune.\n I am a bot, and this action was performed automatically. Please contact the moderators of this subreddit if you have any questions or concerns." }, { "id": "t1_ophj1f0", "author": "/u/First_Gear8944", "updated": "2026-06-03T10:14:46+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tvkhox/how_does_str_loans_and_rental_income_work/ophj1f0/", "content": "The key distinction is projected income versus proven income. Projected numbers can look great on paper, but lenders know occupancy rates, regulations, and local demand can change. Actual rental history generally carries much more weight when someone starts expanding a portfolio." } ] }, { "source": "r/passive_income hot", "id": "t3_1tv59sf", "title": "Realistic Side hustles", "author": "/u/Own_Task_4665", "updated": "2026-06-02T21:46:27+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tv59sf/realistic_side_hustles/", "content": "Y’all, what are some online side hustles that would actually make me some extra side money. I’m not asking for 100/a day and want to be very realistic.\n Maybe 300-400 per month even. I’m a uni student and sometimes even with a physical job i have some extra expenses.\n Give me your honest suggestions please, also I’m from Spain so something that works internationally and not just the US.\n Thank you.\n submitted by /u/Own_Task_4665\n [link] [comments]", "contentHtml": "

Y’all, what are some online side hustles that would actually make me some extra side money. I’m not asking for 100/a day and want to be very realistic.
Maybe 300-400 per month even. I’m a uni student and sometimes even with a physical job i have some extra expenses.
Give me your honest suggestions please, also I’m from Spain so something that works internationally and not just the US.

Thank you.

submitted by /u/Own_Task_4665
[link] [comments]", "comments": [ { "id": "t1_opeern5", "author": "/u/AutoModerator", "updated": "2026-06-02T21:46:27+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tv59sf/realistic_side_hustles/opeern5/", "content": "Check out the Community Highlights for current and future Mod Vetted opportunities and Newsletter Episodes.\n Please do due diligence on any crypto opportunity. A simple google search could save you a fortune.\n I am a bot, and this action was performed automatically. Please contact the moderators of this subreddit if you have any questions or concerns." }, { "id": "t1_opekgw2", "author": "/u/Jalapatitu", "updated": "2026-06-02T22:15:40+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tv59sf/realistic_side_hustles/opekgw2/", "content": "Affiliate marketing. Easy to start, hard to scale." }, { "id": "t1_opfttm8", "author": "/u/cosmogyric_baby", "updated": "2026-06-03T02:27:55+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tv59sf/realistic_side_hustles/opfttm8/", "content": "Possible with Freecash if you're interested in doing surveys, testing apps, watching videos etc to earn some pocket money. Currently it has a $5 sign up bonus on using referral link." }, { "id": "t1_oph5ted", "author": "/u/FewView1019", "updated": "2026-06-03T08:22:21+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tv59sf/realistic_side_hustles/oph5ted/", "content": "home education i think" }, { "id": "t1_oph6ln6", "author": "/u/Blakeson174", "updated": "2026-06-03T08:29:18+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tv59sf/realistic_side_hustles/oph6ln6/", "content": "If you live in Spain, I can help you with a side hustle, it is freelance marketing. You can do it in your free time" }, { "id": "t1_ophc8h2", "author": "/u/pokie-MaN", "updated": "2026-06-03T09:18:52+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tv59sf/realistic_side_hustles/ophc8h2/", "content": "DM me please" }, { "id": "t1_oph2grm", "author": "/u/Illusionandinsomnia", "updated": "2026-06-03T07:52:57+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tv59sf/realistic_side_hustles/oph2grm/", "content": "Not going to link anything, but for this purpose, I run my FREE newsletter 1000 Side Hustles, where I send my readers vetted/non-scammy side hustles with actionable steps and earning potentials. If it sounds like something that might interest you, I can send you a link" } ] }, { "source": "r/passive_income hot", "id": "t3_1tvix9b", "title": "Built a residual income stream off B2B referrals instead of affiliate links — here's how it actually works", "author": "/u/Lost-Kaleidoscope938", "updated": "2026-06-03T08:18:32+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tvix9b/built_a_residual_income_stream_off_b2b_referrals/", "content": "Plenty of affiliate-link posts in here. Almost none on the service-referral side, which is where the larger residual payments come from. Hardly anyone talks about it, so here's how it works.\n Quick context. I look after partnerships at Runwayy (With 2 y , not to be confused with the other one). We build the backend for small and mid-sized businesses (systems, docs, workflows, automation).\n I'll head off the obvious worry. People see referral commissions and think MLM. There's no downline here, no buy-in, no monthly quota, and nothing to buy. You're paid for one thing: sending us a client who signs on. Nobody makes money from you joining. The company lands a client, you take a cut for the introduction.\n Here's the residual part. It's one conversation per client. You point an owner our way, they sign on, they stick around, and you collect every month they stay. You don't touch it again after the handoff. The only work is the introduction. The tail runs on its own.\n On the money. You take a slice of the project value plus the first month, then a smaller recurring percentage for every month they stay active. The rate scales with volume. The more clients you bring across a rolling year, the better your terms get, so a steady referrer earns more per deal than someone who sends one and stops.\n I'll be straight about the catch, because "passive" gets thrown around far too loosely in here.\n\n- You need to know business owners already, or be where they spend their time. From a cold start, this is slow.\n- You'll close fewer deals than a high-volume affiliate link gets you. Each one's worth far more, and it pays out monthly for as long as the client stays.\n- Your income rides on the client staying happy, so only refer people who are a real fit. Quality beats spray-and-pray here. Realistically, this fits if you're already around SMB owners. Ops people, VAs and OBMs, consultants, agency folks. The kind who hears "our backend is a disaster" on a regular basis.\n 'm curious what's worked better for you: service referrals or product affiliates?\n submitted by /u/Lost-Kaleidoscope938\n [link] [comments]", "contentHtml": "

Plenty of affiliate-link posts in here. Almost none on the service-referral side, which is where the larger residual payments come from. Hardly anyone talks about it, so here's how it works.

Quick context. I look after partnerships at Runwayy (With 2 y , not to be confused with the other one). We build the backend for small and mid-sized businesses (systems, docs, workflows, automation).

I'll head off the obvious worry. People see referral commissions and think MLM. There's no downline here, no buy-in, no monthly quota, and nothing to buy. You're paid for one thing: sending us a client who signs on. Nobody makes money from you joining. The company lands a client, you take a cut for the introduction.

Here's the residual part. It's one conversation per client. You point an owner our way, they sign on, they stick around, and you collect every month they stay. You don't touch it again after the handoff. The only work is the introduction. The tail runs on its own.

On the money. You take a slice of the project value plus the first month, then a smaller recurring percentage for every month they stay active. The rate scales with volume. The more clients you bring across a rolling year, the better your terms get, so a steady referrer earns more per deal than someone who sends one and stops.

I'll be straight about the catch, because "passive" gets thrown around far too loosely in here.

Realistically, this fits if you're already around SMB owners. Ops people, VAs and OBMs, consultants, agency folks. The kind who hears "our backend is a disaster" on a regular basis.

'm curious what's worked better for you: service referrals or product affiliates?

submitted by /u/Lost-Kaleidoscope938
[link] [comments]", "comments": [ { "id": "t1_oph5dyb", "author": "/u/AutoModerator", "updated": "2026-06-03T08:18:33+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tvix9b/built_a_residual_income_stream_off_b2b_referrals/oph5dyb/", "content": "Check out the Community Highlights for current and future Mod Vetted opportunities and Newsletter Episodes.\n Please do due diligence on any crypto opportunity. A simple google search could save you a fortune.\n I am a bot, and this action was performed automatically. Please contact the moderators of this subreddit if you have any questions or concerns." } ] }, { "source": "r/passive_income hot", "id": "t3_1tv7ghs", "title": "Passive income in Germany.!", "author": "/u/Prize_World4857", "updated": "2026-06-02T23:10:53+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tv7ghs/passive_income_in_germany/", "content": "Based in Germany, originally South Asian, now a German citizen, and working full-time in the corporate world.\n I’m exploring long-term income streams and business opportunities that have genuine growth potential beyond a regular salary.\n Interested in hearing from people who have successfully built sustainable businesses, side ventures, or other scalable income sources while working full-time.\n Open to realistic ideas, experiences, and lessons learned.\n Thank you.\n submitted by /u/Prize_World4857\n [link] [comments]", "contentHtml": "

Based in Germany, originally South Asian, now a German citizen, and working full-time in the corporate world.

I’m exploring long-term income streams and business opportunities that have genuine growth potential beyond a regular salary.

Interested in hearing from people who have successfully built sustainable businesses, side ventures, or other scalable income sources while working full-time.

Open to realistic ideas, experiences, and lessons learned.

Thank you.

submitted by /u/Prize_World4857
[link] [comments]", "comments": [ { "id": "t1_opeuyx4", "author": "/u/AutoModerator", "updated": "2026-06-02T23:10:53+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tv7ghs/passive_income_in_germany/opeuyx4/", "content": "Check out the Community Highlights for current and future Mod Vetted opportunities and Newsletter Episodes.\n Please do due diligence on any crypto opportunity. A simple google search could save you a fortune.\n I am a bot, and this action was performed automatically. Please contact the moderators of this subreddit if you have any questions or concerns." } ] }, { "source": "r/passive_income hot", "id": "t3_1tvg8bc", "title": "Now I am making 100-200$/month doing affiliate marketing", "author": "/u/PassiveIncomeNest", "updated": "2026-06-03T05:48:02+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tvg8bc/now_i_am_making_100200month_doing_affiliate/", "content": "I want to scale it more and earn 1000+$/month\n Can anyone suggest me more way to promote present i am promoting in Blogs and Facebook\n Give me tips to improve\n submitted by /u/PassiveIncomeNest\n [link] [comments]", "contentHtml": "

I want to scale it more and earn 1000+$/month
Can anyone suggest me more way to promote present i am promoting in Blogs and Facebook
Give me tips to improve

submitted by /u/PassiveIncomeNest
[link] [comments]", "comments": [ { "id": "t1_opgn8ky", "author": "/u/AutoModerator", "updated": "2026-06-03T05:48:02+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tvg8bc/now_i_am_making_100200month_doing_affiliate/opgn8ky/", "content": "Check out the Community Highlights for current and future Mod Vetted opportunities and Newsletter Episodes.\n Please do due diligence on any crypto opportunity. A simple google search could save you a fortune.\n I am a bot, and this action was performed automatically. Please contact the moderators of this subreddit if you have any questions or concerns." }, { "id": "t1_ophbtd3", "author": "/u/pokie-MaN", "updated": "2026-06-03T09:15:13+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tvg8bc/now_i_am_making_100200month_doing_affiliate/ophbtd3/", "content": "how can I learn affiliate marketing" }, { "id": "t1_ophi2bp", "author": "/u/PassiveIncomeNest", "updated": "2026-06-03T10:07:13+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tvg8bc/now_i_am_making_100200month_doing_affiliate/ophi2bp/", "content": "From where you are\n Which country" }, { "id": "t1_ophgxni", "author": "/u/Michaelvinnie", "updated": "2026-06-03T09:58:20+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tvg8bc/now_i_am_making_100200month_doing_affiliate/ophgxni/", "content": "First, I want to congratulate you for this milestone, is not always easy. Then if I were you, I wouldn't rush to add 10 more traffic sources. Many people get stuck at that level because they would chase instead of doubling down on what's already bringing clicks and sales.\n Look at your existing blog content first. What's generating the commissions? Can you create more content around those same topics? Can you target more keywords in that niche?\n Facebook is fine too, but I suggest you add Pinterest and an email list before trying every social platform out there. Sometimes getting from $100 to $1,000 isn't about promoting more. It's about doing more of what is already working." }, { "id": "t1_ophh3yi", "author": "/u/Pauliuss", "updated": "2026-06-03T09:59:43+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tvg8bc/now_i_am_making_100200month_doing_affiliate/ophh3yi/", "content": "If you have your site just try to create unique content and if the search engines will index you you will get organic traffic." }, { "id": "t1_ophjxw8", "author": "/u/Opposite-Campaign213", "updated": "2026-06-03T10:21:39+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tvg8bc/now_i_am_making_100200month_doing_affiliate/ophjxw8/", "content": "nice, getting your first 100-200 is the hard part, scaling is just adding more traffic channels. blogs and fb are slow, you're missing the channel thats blowing up right now which is short video.\n i'd take your top converting affiliate offers and turn each one into faceless shorts. like "3 tools that save you X" style clips, link in bio. video reaches way more people than a blog post and its free. i make mine with keyvello in 2 min each and post the same clip to tiktok, shorts and reels so one video hits 4 audiences.\n also if you arent already, promote recurring/subscription offers not one time ones. one time pays once, recurring pays you every month off the same signup. thats what actually got me past the 1k mark, the income stacks instead of resetting." } ] }, { "source": "r/passive_income hot", "id": "t3_1tvf99j", "title": "Built a Mac app that turns data your computer already makes into a monthly payout", "author": "/u/Sea-Outlandishness10", "updated": "2026-06-03T04:57:36+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tvf99j/built_a_mac_app_that_turns_data_your_computer/", "content": "Sharing a project I'm working on, Streams (withstreams.com), in case it fits what people here look for.\n The idea is set it and mostly forget it. You install a small macOS app, choose which data sources you're willing to share, and it sends only those to AI labs that pay for training data. You get paid monthly based on what you contribute.\n A few things I want to be upfront about, since this crowd is rightly skeptical:\n\n- You control every source. Nothing leaves your Mac unless you explicitly turn it on, and you can review what is going out.\n- It does read from your computer by design, so if that is a dealbreaker this isn't for you.\n- We're early. First users get $50 for setup plus first sync, and recurring monthly payouts start once lab rates are finalized. macOS only right now. I'm looking for a small first group to dial in fair rates. Link has the download and the consent walkthrough. Ask me anything.\n submitted by /u/Sea-Outlandishness10\n [link] [comments]", "contentHtml": "

Sharing a project I'm working on, Streams (withstreams.com), in case it fits what people here look for.

The idea is set it and mostly forget it. You install a small macOS app, choose which data sources you're willing to share, and it sends only those to AI labs that pay for training data. You get paid monthly based on what you contribute.

A few things I want to be upfront about, since this crowd is rightly skeptical:

macOS only right now. I'm looking for a small first group to dial in fair rates. Link has the download and the consent walkthrough. Ask me anything.

submitted by /u/Sea-Outlandishness10
[link] [comments]", "comments": [ { "id": "t1_opggkjt", "author": "/u/AutoModerator", "updated": "2026-06-03T04:57:37+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tvf99j/built_a_mac_app_that_turns_data_your_computer/opggkjt/", "content": "Check out the Community Highlights for current and future Mod Vetted opportunities and Newsletter Episodes.\n Please do due diligence on any crypto opportunity. A simple google search could save you a fortune.\n I am a bot, and this action was performed automatically. Please contact the moderators of this subreddit if you have any questions or concerns." } ] }, { "source": "r/passive_income hot", "id": "t3_1tveyl8", "title": "Streams — Mac app that pays you monthly for data you choose to share (new, looking for early users)", "author": "/u/Sea-Outlandishness10", "updated": "2026-06-03T04:43:02+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tveyl8/streams_mac_app_that_pays_you_monthly_for_data/", "content": "Hey all. I'm one of the people building Streams ( withstreams.com )\n Quick, honest version of what it is:\n\n- It's a small macOS app. You install it, and it can see data your Mac already generates.\n- You pick which sources to share. N othing leaves your machine unless you explicitly select it. You can see exactly what's going out before it does.\n- That data gets sold to AI labs, and you get paid monthly for what you contribute. What I'm looking for right now: a small first group of users across different walks of life so we can figure out fair payout rates. Regular folks, but also if you work in a specific field (nursing, finance, accounting, etc.)\n Honest disclaimers:\n\n- macOS only for now.\n- We're early, so payouts for this first batch are $50 flat for setup + first sync. As we lock in lab pricing, recurring monthly payouts kick in.\n- It reads from your computer, so if you don't want a source, just disable it. Happy to answer anything in the thread and instructions to get set up in the url.\n submitted by /u/Sea-Outlandishness10\n [link] [comments]", "contentHtml": "

Hey all. I'm one of the people building Streams (withstreams.com)

Quick, honest version of what it is:

What I'm looking for right now: a small first group of users across different walks of life so we can figure out fair payout rates. Regular folks, but also if you work in a specific field (nursing, finance, accounting, etc.)

Honest disclaimers:

Happy to answer anything in the thread and instructions to get set up in the url.

submitted by /u/Sea-Outlandishness10
[link] [comments]", "comments": [ { "id": "t1_opgeje9", "author": "/u/AutoModerator", "updated": "2026-06-03T04:43:02+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tveyl8/streams_mac_app_that_pays_you_monthly_for_data/opgeje9/", "content": "Check out the Community Highlights for current and future Mod Vetted opportunities and Newsletter Episodes.\n Please do due diligence on any crypto opportunity. A simple google search could save you a fortune.\n I am a bot, and this action was performed automatically. Please contact the moderators of this subreddit if you have any questions or concerns." } ] }, { "source": "r/passive_income hot", "id": "t3_1tvd00a", "title": "[ Removed by Reddit ]", "author": "/u/update_provider22", "updated": "2026-06-03T03:09:30+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tvd00a/removed_by_reddit/", "content": "[ Removed by Reddit on account of violating the content policy . ]\n submitted by /u/update_provider22\n [link] [comments]", "contentHtml": "

[ Removed by Reddit on account of violating the content policy. ]

submitted by /u/update_provider22
[link] [comments]", "comments": [ { "id": "t1_opg0pgi", "author": "/u/AutoModerator", "updated": "2026-06-03T03:09:30+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tvd00a/removed_by_reddit/opg0pgi/", "content": "Check out the Community Highlights for current and future Mod Vetted opportunities and Newsletter Episodes.\n Please do due diligence on any crypto opportunity. A simple google search could save you a fortune.\n I am a bot, and this action was performed automatically. Please contact the moderators of this subreddit if you have any questions or concerns." } ] }, { "source": "r/passive_income hot", "id": "t3_1tvbj27", "title": "[Guía] Cómo multiplicar tu inversión x3 revendiendo servicios para redes sociales (Arbitraje SMM) 📈", "author": "/u/InfluenceSevere8346", "updated": "2026-06-03T02:06:22+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tvbj27/guía_cómo_multiplicar_tu_inversión_x3_revendiendo/", "content": "Hola a todos. Quería compartir un método de arbitraje de servicios digitales que me está dando buenos resultados. Básicamente, me dedico a comprar interacciones (seguidores, likes, visitas) en un proveedor mayorista y las revendo a clientes finales sacando un margen de ganancia bastante alto.\n Aquí les explico cómo funciona mi embudo, los números reales y cómo pueden replicarlo.\n 📢 Cómo consigo clientes\n No gasto en publicidad. Promociono mis listas de precios de manera orgánica en:\n Grupos de Facebook específicos.\n Grupos de WhatsApp.\n Mi propio servidor de Discord.\n Canales de Telegram.\n 💰 Los números reales (Márgenes de ganancia)\n Para que se den una idea de los márgenes, esto es lo que manejo actualmente:\n Seguidores de Instagram (con "Refill"): El servicio me cuesta $0,63 USD por cada 1.000 seguidores en el proveedor. Yo los vendo a $2,20 USD. Estoy ganando casi cuatro veces lo que invierto. (Nota: "Refill" significa que si la cuenta pierde seguidores por limpieza de bots de la red social, el sistema los repone automáticamente).\n Visitas/Views: 1.000 visitas me cuestan menos de $0,01 USD y las vendo a $0,10 USD. El volumen aquí es clave.\n Básicamente, estás ganando un 300% o 400% de tu inversión solo por hacer de intermediario y gestionar el pedido.\n ⚙️ El proceso paso a paso\n Si alguien quiere intentarlo, la curva de aprendizaje es casi nula:\n Fondeo: Creas la cuenta y recargas saldo. El mínimo para empezar es de solo $1 USD y aceptan criptomonedas, lo cual facilita mucho las cosas si eres de LATAM.\n Buscar servicios: Vas a la pestaña "New Orders".\n Pro-Tip (El filtro): Los precios de los servidores varían muchísimo. Les recomiendo usar siempre el buscador y ordenar de menor a mayor para encontrar los servicios más rentables y maximizar su spread.\n Ejecutar: Eliges la cantidad, pegas el enlace de tu cliente y listo.\n ⚠️ Regla de oro: Asegúrense siempre de decirle a su cliente que la cuenta o el post debe estar en PÚBLICO mientras se completa el pedido, si está privada, el servicio falla.\n 🔗 El proveedor\n He visto a mucha gente en internet vendiendo el acceso a este tipo de proveedores (yo mismo pagué $7 USD en su momento para conseguir uno bueno). Me ha rendido muy bien, así que prefiero simplemente compartir la página gratis con ustedes.\n La plataforma tiene un sistema de referidos que paga un 5% de las recargas. Les dejo ambos enlaces, usen el que prefieran:\n Sin referido: https://mysticsmm.com\n Si tienen alguna duda sobre cómo armar las listas de precios o cómo acercarse a los clientes en los grupos, déjenla en los comentarios y les voy respondiendo. ¡Éxitos!\n submitted by /u/InfluenceSevere8346\n [link] [comments]", "contentHtml": "

Hola a todos. Quería compartir un método de arbitraje de servicios digitales que me está dando buenos resultados. Básicamente, me dedico a comprar interacciones (seguidores, likes, visitas) en un proveedor mayorista y las revendo a clientes finales sacando un margen de ganancia bastante alto.

Aquí les explico cómo funciona mi embudo, los números reales y cómo pueden replicarlo.

📢 Cómo consigo clientes

No gasto en publicidad. Promociono mis listas de precios de manera orgánica en:

Grupos de Facebook específicos.

Grupos de WhatsApp.

Mi propio servidor de Discord.

Canales de Telegram.

💰 Los números reales (Márgenes de ganancia)

Para que se den una idea de los márgenes, esto es lo que manejo actualmente:

Seguidores de Instagram (con "Refill"): El servicio me cuesta $0,63 USD por cada 1.000 seguidores en el proveedor. Yo los vendo a $2,20 USD. Estoy ganando casi cuatro veces lo que invierto. (Nota: "Refill" significa que si la cuenta pierde seguidores por limpieza de bots de la red social, el sistema los repone automáticamente).

Visitas/Views: 1.000 visitas me cuestan menos de $0,01 USD y las vendo a $0,10 USD. El volumen aquí es clave.

Básicamente, estás ganando un 300% o 400% de tu inversión solo por hacer de intermediario y gestionar el pedido.

⚙️ El proceso paso a paso

Si alguien quiere intentarlo, la curva de aprendizaje es casi nula:

Fondeo: Creas la cuenta y recargas saldo. El mínimo para empezar es de solo $1 USD y aceptan criptomonedas, lo cual facilita mucho las cosas si eres de LATAM.

Buscar servicios: Vas a la pestaña "New Orders".

Pro-Tip (El filtro): Los precios de los servidores varían muchísimo. Les recomiendo usar siempre el buscador y ordenar de menor a mayor para encontrar los servicios más rentables y maximizar su spread.

Ejecutar: Eliges la cantidad, pegas el enlace de tu cliente y listo.

⚠️ Regla de oro: Asegúrense siempre de decirle a su cliente que la cuenta o el post debe estar en PÚBLICO mientras se completa el pedido, si está privada, el servicio falla.

🔗 El proveedor

He visto a mucha gente en internet vendiendo el acceso a este tipo de proveedores (yo mismo pagué $7 USD en su momento para conseguir uno bueno). Me ha rendido muy bien, así que prefiero simplemente compartir la página gratis con ustedes.

La plataforma tiene un sistema de referidos que paga un 5% de las recargas. Les dejo ambos enlaces, usen el que prefieran:

Sin referido: https://mysticsmm.com

Si tienen alguna duda sobre cómo armar las listas de precios o cómo acercarse a los clientes en los grupos, déjenla en los comentarios y les voy respondiendo. ¡Éxitos!

submitted by /u/InfluenceSevere8346
[link] [comments]", "comments": [ { "id": "t1_opfq3l5", "author": "/u/AutoModerator", "updated": "2026-06-03T02:06:23+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tvbj27/guía_cómo_multiplicar_tu_inversión_x3_revendiendo/opfq3l5/", "content": "Check out the Community Highlights for current and future Mod Vetted opportunities and Newsletter Episodes.\n Please do due diligence on any crypto opportunity. A simple google search could save you a fortune.\n I am a bot, and this action was performed automatically. Please contact the moderators of this subreddit if you have any questions or concerns." } ] }, { "source": "r/passive_income hot", "id": "t3_1tumh5i", "title": "I was trying to build a passive income YouTube channel. Accidentally ended up with a SaaS doing $117 MRR.", "author": "/u/Few-Peach8924", "updated": "2026-06-02T10:07:58+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tumh5i/i_was_trying_to_build_a_passive_income_youtube/", "content": "A month ago I went down the faceless YouTube automation rabbit hole.\n The plan was simple:\n - Generate scripts with AI\n - Create videos automatically\n - Upload consistently\n - Earn passive income\n The reality was a mess.\n Every workflow required multiple tools. One for video generation, one for rendering, one for captions, one for automation, and another for hosting.\n Instead of building the YouTube channel, I started building a tool for myself to simplify the process.\n 30 days later, that side project has turned into a small SaaS:\n - 13 paying subscribers\n - $117 MRR\n - No paid advertising\n - Customers from Reddit, Discord, and word of mouth\n The funny part is that I still haven't launched the faceless YouTube channel that started all of this.\n The SaaS is called VideoApiHub. It's basically a video creation API platform that lets developers and no-code builders generate videos programmatically and connect video creation into automation workflows.\n A few things I've learned:\n\n- Solving your own problem first is underrated.\n\n- People pay for painkillers, not vitamins.\n\n- "Passive income" is usually active income at the beginning.\n\n- Distribution is harder than development.\n I know $117 MRR isn't life-changing money, but seeing 13 strangers trust a product enough to pay for it has been a huge motivation boost.\n Has anyone else here started building one thing and accidentally ended up with a completely different business?\n submitted by /u/Few-Peach8924\n [link] [comments]", "contentHtml": "

A month ago I went down the faceless YouTube automation rabbit hole.

The plan was simple:

- Generate scripts with AI

- Create videos automatically

- Upload consistently

- Earn passive income

The reality was a mess.

Every workflow required multiple tools. One for video generation, one for rendering, one for captions, one for automation, and another for hosting.

Instead of building the YouTube channel, I started building a tool for myself to simplify the process.

30 days later, that side project has turned into a small SaaS:

- 13 paying subscribers

- $117 MRR

- No paid advertising

- Customers from Reddit, Discord, and word of mouth

The funny part is that I still haven't launched the faceless YouTube channel that started all of this.

The SaaS is called VideoApiHub. It's basically a video creation API platform that lets developers and no-code builders generate videos programmatically and connect video creation into automation workflows.

A few things I've learned:

  1. Solving your own problem first is underrated.

  2. People pay for painkillers, not vitamins.

  3. "Passive income" is usually active income at the beginning.

  4. Distribution is harder than development.

I know $117 MRR isn't life-changing money, but seeing 13 strangers trust a product enough to pay for it has been a huge motivation boost.

Has anyone else here started building one thing and accidentally ended up with a completely different business?

submitted by /u/Few-Peach8924
[link] [comments]", "comments": [ { "id": "t1_opafvaw", "author": "/u/AutoModerator", "updated": "2026-06-02T10:07:58+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tumh5i/i_was_trying_to_build_a_passive_income_youtube/opafvaw/", "content": "Check out the Community Highlights for current and future Mod Vetted opportunities and Newsletter Episodes.\n Please do due diligence on any crypto opportunity. A simple google search could save you a fortune.\n I am a bot, and this action was performed automatically. Please contact the moderators of this subreddit if you have any questions or concerns." }, { "id": "t1_opaqno4", "author": "/u/CryptoMemeInvestor", "updated": "2026-06-02T11:25:03+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tumh5i/i_was_trying_to_build_a_passive_income_youtube/opaqno4/", "content": "Nice ad" }, { "id": "t1_opar04o", "author": "/u/Few-Peach8924", "updated": "2026-06-02T11:27:19+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tumh5i/i_was_trying_to_build_a_passive_income_youtube/opar04o/", "content": "But that's my story , instead of paying for the existing tools I created one" }, { "id": "t1_opar78e", "author": "/u/CryptoMemeInvestor", "updated": "2026-06-02T11:28:34+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tumh5i/i_was_trying_to_build_a_passive_income_youtube/opar78e/", "content": "My comment was not sarcastic actually, it is really a nice ad 😅" }, { "id": "t1_oparahu", "author": "/u/Few-Peach8924", "updated": "2026-06-02T11:29:10+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tumh5i/i_was_trying_to_build_a_passive_income_youtube/oparahu/", "content": "Oh thanks , here too many people become sarcastic soon 🤣" }, { "id": "t1_opcpclj", "author": "/u/Vegetable_Pirate_702", "updated": "2026-06-02T17:08:14+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tumh5i/i_was_trying_to_build_a_passive_income_youtube/opcpclj/", "content": "Congratulations on contributing to the slop. This will surely provide valuable and engaging content." }, { "id": "t1_opaqn59", "author": "/u/AlternativeWish3498", "updated": "2026-06-02T11:24:58+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tumh5i/i_was_trying_to_build_a_passive_income_youtube/opaqn59/", "content": "Classic "scratch your own itch" story, and honestly those tend to be the most sustainable ones because you actually understand the problem deeply. The faceless YouTube channel will probably always be "coming soon" at this point lol. Congrats on 13 paying strangers, though—that's genuinely the hardest part cleared." }, { "id": "t1_opar5i2", "author": "/u/Few-Peach8924", "updated": "2026-06-02T11:28:16+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tumh5i/i_was_trying_to_build_a_passive_income_youtube/opar5i2/", "content": "True , I started a small problem , kept on building and building, it became a product" }, { "id": "t1_opav8z9", "author": "/u/AlternativeWish3498", "updated": "2026-06-02T11:53:52+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tumh5i/i_was_trying_to_build_a_passive_income_youtube/opav8z9/", "content": "Sweet, keep going!" }, { "id": "t1_opaz8rk", "author": "/u/Few-Peach8924", "updated": "2026-06-02T12:17:12+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tumh5i/i_was_trying_to_build_a_passive_income_youtube/opaz8rk/", "content": "Thanks" }, { "id": "t1_opaxx79", "author": "/u/leblancch", "updated": "2026-06-02T12:09:39+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tumh5i/i_was_trying_to_build_a_passive_income_youtube/opaxx79/", "content": "That’s cool. Sounds like something I would do. I had made a Powershell system that worked with eBay API years back. Maybe I should have sold it. eBay shut me down selling digital products while others kept going with the same." }, { "id": "t1_opazbjb", "author": "/u/Few-Peach8924", "updated": "2026-06-02T12:17:38+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tumh5i/i_was_trying_to_build_a_passive_income_youtube/opazbjb/", "content": "Exiting at the right time is also crucial" }, { "id": "t1_opb2z5o", "author": "/u/leblancch", "updated": "2026-06-02T12:38:16+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tumh5i/i_was_trying_to_build_a_passive_income_youtube/opb2z5o/", "content": "maybe so, you do have to stay as a customer if you ever think about marketing your product." }, { "id": "t1_opc6bib", "author": "/u/Johnlefty", "updated": "2026-06-02T15:45:13+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tumh5i/i_was_trying_to_build_a_passive_income_youtube/opc6bib/", "content": "Well done! It's listening to the market feedback that will lead to to the right path. In your case realizing the side project is the real project is starting to pay off. Keep up the great work!" }, { "id": "t1_opektg5", "author": "/u/Ecstatic_Mode_5142", "updated": "2026-06-02T22:17:25+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tumh5i/i_was_trying_to_build_a_passive_income_youtube/opektg5/", "content": "Have you got any example YouTube videos that I can see before I invest time into this? I want to see the quality of the output." }, { "id": "t1_ophk26k", "author": "/u/LeaderAtLeading", "updated": "2026-06-03T10:22:33+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tumh5i/i_was_trying_to_build_a_passive_income_youtube/ophk26k/", "content": "Solving your own pain first beats guessing what people want. You built for a real workflow because you were drowning in it. That is why customers convert." } ] }, { "source": "r/passive_income hot", "id": "t3_1tv02ox", "title": "I spent months researching online income methods for beginners. Here are the 10 lessons that mattered most.", "author": "/u/InfluenceLucky5980", "updated": "2026-06-02T18:40:48+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tv02ox/i_spent_months_researching_online_income_methods/", "content": "Over the last few months I spent a lot of time studying different ways people make money online.\n After going through freelancing, digital products, affiliate marketing, content creation and AI tools, I noticed that beginners often make the same mistakes.\n Here are some lessons that stood out:\n\n- Focus on one income method first.\n- Learn a skill before expecting results.\n- Consistency beats motivation.\n- Building trust is more important than selling.\n- Most successful people create value before asking for money.\n- AI can improve productivity, but it won't replace effort.\n- Digital products can scale better than hourly work.\n- Communication skills matter more than most people think.\n- Avoid "get rich quick" promises.\n- Track everything you do. I'm curious: What was the biggest lesson you learned while trying to earn money online?\n submitted by /u/InfluenceLucky5980\n [link] [comments]", "contentHtml": "

Over the last few months I spent a lot of time studying different ways people make money online.

After going through freelancing, digital products, affiliate marketing, content creation and AI tools, I noticed that beginners often make the same mistakes.

Here are some lessons that stood out:

  1. Focus on one income method first.
  2. Learn a skill before expecting results.
  3. Consistency beats motivation.
  4. Building trust is more important than selling.
  5. Most successful people create value before asking for money.
  6. AI can improve productivity, but it won't replace effort.
  7. Digital products can scale better than hourly work.
  8. Communication skills matter more than most people think.
  9. Avoid "get rich quick" promises.
  10. Track everything you do.

I'm curious: What was the biggest lesson you learned while trying to earn money online?

submitted by /u/InfluenceLucky5980
[link] [comments]", "comments": [ { "id": "t1_opdaodu", "author": "/u/AutoModerator", "updated": "2026-06-02T18:40:48+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tv02ox/i_spent_months_researching_online_income_methods/opdaodu/", "content": "Check out the Community Highlights for current and future Mod Vetted opportunities and Newsletter Episodes.\n Please do due diligence on any crypto opportunity. A simple google search could save you a fortune.\n I am a bot, and this action was performed automatically. Please contact the moderators of this subreddit if you have any questions or concerns." } ] }, { "source": "r/passive_income hot", "id": "t3_1tus9c3", "title": "business idea thoughts?", "author": "/u/Few_Energy7019", "updated": "2026-06-02T14:15:20+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tus9c3/business_idea_thoughts/", "content": "Hey everyone, my name is Zam and I'm 18 years old.\n To get straight to the point, I have about $15,000 in savings that I want to invest for maximum return. I am completely open to taking high risks for the right opportunity.\n A friend of mine from the Philippines and I are looking into a joint real estate investment there, bringing our total starting capital to $25,000. Our plan is to acquire/build a student accommodation property, specifically targeting international ESL (English as a Second Language) students. We estimate generating around $370 per month per room. Based on our initial research, we projected a one-year payback period assuming a moderate, steady occupancy rate of 80%.\n My main concern right now is whether maintaining an 80% monthly average occupancy rate is realistic.\n I would love to get your thoughts, advice, or any recommendations on this play. Thanks!\n submitted by /u/Few_Energy7019\n [link] [comments]", "contentHtml": "

Hey everyone, my name is Zam and I'm 18 years old.

To get straight to the point, I have about $15,000 in savings that I want to invest for maximum return. I am completely open to taking high risks for the right opportunity.

A friend of mine from the Philippines and I are looking into a joint real estate investment there, bringing our total starting capital to $25,000. Our plan is to acquire/build a student accommodation property, specifically targeting international ESL (English as a Second Language) students. We estimate generating around $370 per month per room. Based on our initial research, we projected a one-year payback period assuming a moderate, steady occupancy rate of 80%.

My main concern right now is whether maintaining an 80% monthly average occupancy rate is realistic.

I would love to get your thoughts, advice, or any recommendations on this play. Thanks!

submitted by /u/Few_Energy7019
[link] [comments]", "comments": [ { "id": "t1_opbmbuh", "author": "/u/AutoModerator", "updated": "2026-06-02T14:15:20+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tus9c3/business_idea_thoughts/opbmbuh/", "content": "Check out the Community Highlights for current and future Mod Vetted opportunities and Newsletter Episodes.\n Please do due diligence on any crypto opportunity. A simple google search could save you a fortune.\n I am a bot, and this action was performed automatically. Please contact the moderators of this subreddit if you have any questions or concerns." }, { "id": "t1_opbnfou", "author": "/u/Soumyar-Tripathy", "updated": "2026-06-02T14:20:30+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tus9c3/business_idea_thoughts/opbnfou/", "content": "As for the 80% occupancy rate – yes, that is scary enough on its own, but the true danger of the deal lies precisely in how difficult it might be to manage the asset remotely without having any employees on-site. Not being able to take care of the maintenance, tenant problems, and other issues that may arise will turn your passive income into active stress very fast. Do not worry only about the numbers regarding the occupancy rate – you need to focus on establishing the operational backbone first and foremost. In particular, my real estate assets are managed by a whole ecosystem of special AI agents controlled via orchestration such as Runable. One of these AI agents tracks the market rental prices for my apartments and adjusts the prices, the second one is responsible for tenant screening and initial communication with future tenants, and the third starts the maintenance process whenever I get a corresponding e-mail from them. Creating an orchestration layer to automate the "management" process eliminates all possible problems associated with human factor in small-scale real estate investments. Therefore, before investing $25k in a remote location, forget about the passive income idea and start creating an efficient operating system." }, { "id": "t1_opbnubz", "author": "/u/After-Spare-7876", "updated": "2026-06-02T14:22:23+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tus9c3/business_idea_thoughts/opbnubz/", "content": "I like the idea of the real estate business they developed together. I know because I also own two apartments on Airbnb. One business I recommend you try is sniping: anticipating early launches of different technology and intelligence projects, communities, or influential people in their sector, buying a large part of them, and benefiting from early growth. It's one of the best because they have plenty of potential, and you start with less than you expect. It's one of the most profitable businesses currently available.\n https://preview.redd.it/f1db94xfpv4h1.jpeg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=ceaddb699b761fe6dadff9cc662829206b375e24" }, { "id": "t1_oped0dz", "author": "/u/JJ-Mallon", "updated": "2026-06-02T21:37:45+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tus9c3/business_idea_thoughts/oped0dz/", "content": "I would put that money in an S&P 500 ETF and pretend like it doesn’t exist for several years.\n At an average annual return rate of 14%, it will double every 5 years. If that original 15k is left alone for 35 years- until you’re 53 yrs old- you’d have about $1.5 million dollars- and that’s assuming you didn’t add to it along the way." }, { "id": "t1_opc0u3t", "author": "/u/Makalou_24", "updated": "2026-06-02T15:21:16+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tus9c3/business_idea_thoughts/opc0u3t/", "content": "Investing in a business that’s already working and in a growth phase is better." }, { "id": "t1_opcl3no", "author": "/u/throwaway752107174", "updated": "2026-06-02T16:49:44+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tus9c3/business_idea_thoughts/opcl3no/", "content": "80% occupancy in a remote market you don't know well is optimistic. Remote management of student housing is a nightmare - turnover, maintenance issues, tenant disputes all happen faster than you can react from abroad." }, { "id": "t1_opcssf2", "author": "/u/Drumroll-PH", "updated": "2026-06-02T17:23:11+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tus9c3/business_idea_thoughts/opcssf2/", "content": "Your idea makes sense on paper, but the biggest risk is assuming a stable 80% occupancy, because in real student housing that number usually fluctuates a lot with semesters, visas, and competition. The real differentiator isn’t just demand but whether you can actually access tenants consistently through schools, agencies, or an existing trust network in that area.\n If I were in your position, I’d stress test the numbers with worst case occupancy scenarios and local market data before committing, because real estate tends to break when projections are too optimistic rather than because the idea itself is bad." }, { "id": "t1_opdz9ld", "author": "/u/Specific_Scholar_665", "updated": "2026-06-02T20:32:29+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tus9c3/business_idea_thoughts/opdz9ld/", "content": "I don't know the prices there, but isn't this starting capital unrealistic? I'm in Eastern Europe and you can't even build a bungalow for this amount of money anymore." } ] }, { "source": "r/passive_income hot", "id": "t3_1tv69i9", "title": "Facebook Montisation", "author": "/u/BlacksmithKey3355", "updated": "2026-06-02T22:23:44+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tv69i9/facebook_montisation/", "content": "If you post content on Facebook, I'm curious to know if you got monetised last month and have less than 10k followers. In certain parts of the world, Meta is setting clear guidelines for monetisation where you can track this, such as having 10k followers, watch time, etc. For me currently, it just says join a wait list.\n submitted by /u/BlacksmithKey3355\n [link] [comments]", "contentHtml": "

If you post content on Facebook, I'm curious to know if you got monetised last month and have less than 10k followers. In certain parts of the world, Meta is setting clear guidelines for monetisation where you can track this, such as having 10k followers, watch time, etc. For me currently, it just says join a wait list.

submitted by /u/BlacksmithKey3355
[link] [comments]", "comments": [ { "id": "t1_opem2fl", "author": "/u/AutoModerator", "updated": "2026-06-02T22:23:44+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tv69i9/facebook_montisation/opem2fl/", "content": "Check out the Community Highlights for current and future Mod Vetted opportunities and Newsletter Episodes.\n Please do due diligence on any crypto opportunity. A simple google search could save you a fortune.\n I am a bot, and this action was performed automatically. Please contact the moderators of this subreddit if you have any questions or concerns." }, { "id": "t1_opeo9gg", "author": "/u/Upstairs_Cry4478", "updated": "2026-06-02T22:35:05+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tv69i9/facebook_montisation/opeo9gg/", "content": "nah" } ] }, { "source": "r/passive_income hot", "id": "t3_1tucm1p", "title": "I built an automated forex trading bot with zero coding experience using Claude AI", "author": "/u/DueCarry3624", "updated": "2026-06-02T01:39:39+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tucm1p/i_built_an_automated_forex_trading_bot_with_zero/", "content": "Not selling anything in this post just sharing what I built. Happy to answer questions.\n I had no coding background and no trading experience. I spent a weekend using Claude AI as my coding assistant and built PIP-9 a fully automated forex trading bot that:\n - Trades 7 currency pairs including Gold automatically\n - Runs 5 trading strategies simultaneously\n - Sets stop loss and take profit on every trade\n - Only trades during London/NY sessions for best results\n - Emails me every time a trade opens, closes, wins or loses\n The bot is connected to a free OANDA demo account with $100,000 virtual money so I could test it risk-free first.\n I documented the entire process step by step. Happy to answer any questions about how it works.\n submitted by /u/DueCarry3624\n [link] [comments]", "contentHtml": "

Not selling anything in this post just sharing what I built. Happy to answer questions.

I had no coding background and no trading experience. I spent a weekend using Claude AI as my coding assistant and built PIP-9 a fully automated forex trading bot that:

- Trades 7 currency pairs including Gold automatically

- Runs 5 trading strategies simultaneously

- Sets stop loss and take profit on every trade

- Only trades during London/NY sessions for best results

- Emails me every time a trade opens, closes, wins or loses

The bot is connected to a free OANDA demo account with $100,000 virtual money so I could test it risk-free first.

I documented the entire process step by step. Happy to answer any questions about how it works.

submitted by /u/DueCarry3624
[link] [comments]", "comments": [ { "id": "t1_op8khnp", "author": "/u/AutoModerator", "updated": "2026-06-02T01:39:39+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tucm1p/i_built_an_automated_forex_trading_bot_with_zero/op8khnp/", "content": "Check out the Community Highlights for current and future Mod Vetted opportunities and Newsletter Episodes.\n Please do due diligence on any crypto opportunity. A simple google search could save you a fortune.\n I am a bot, and this action was performed automatically. Please contact the moderators of this subreddit if you have any questions or concerns." }, { "id": "t1_op8r6ps", "author": "/u/annie_leonhartt", "updated": "2026-06-02T02:20:04+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tucm1p/i_built_an_automated_forex_trading_bot_with_zero/op8r6ps/", "content": "pretty cool project, especially with no coding background. i'd just be careful not to confuse a good demo account run with a profitable strategy. live markets tend to expose weaknesses pretty fast." }, { "id": "t1_op8wl1s", "author": "/u/DueCarry3624", "updated": "2026-06-02T02:53:32+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tucm1p/i_built_an_automated_forex_trading_bot_with_zero/op8wl1s/", "content": "Yeah that's a fair point, that's why I've been running it on demo first with $100k virtual money. Not touching real money until I get at least a month of data. Just trying to learn how it behaves in different market conditions before I risk anything real. I am going to start with just $100 of real money this week tho and see how it compounds over time, low risk but real money" }, { "id": "t1_opcuet1", "author": "/u/Vigouror_20", "updated": "2026-06-02T17:30:10+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tucm1p/i_built_an_automated_forex_trading_bot_with_zero/opcuet1/", "content": "[ Removed by Reddit ]" }, { "id": "t1_opa0552", "author": "/u/Funky_Pigeon-", "updated": "2026-06-02T07:53:29+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tucm1p/i_built_an_automated_forex_trading_bot_with_zero/opa0552/", "content": "I'd be interested in the Claude transcript if you didn't share to much personal information on it? I'd like to see how it 'logic'd' out your prompts. I've considered doing something similar, but worry about the token use racking up fast. Did you hit the buffers on it often?" }, { "id": "t1_ope02us", "author": "/u/LMachiavelli007", "updated": "2026-06-02T20:36:15+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tucm1p/i_built_an_automated_forex_trading_bot_with_zero/ope02us/", "content": "Hey. I would really love to see the documentation and all? Really intrigued. Mind sharing?" }, { "id": "t1_op8m641", "author": "/u/Organic-Speech-315", "updated": "2026-06-02T01:49:47+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tucm1p/i_built_an_automated_forex_trading_bot_with_zero/op8m641/", "content": "That's pretty wild that you managed to build something like this in weekend. I'm curious about the strategies you're running - did Claude help you design those too or did you find them somewhere else? Also wondering how the demo testing has been going, like what kind of win rate you're seeing across those currency pairs\n The email notifications sound really useful for keeping track without having to constantly check the platform" }, { "id": "t1_op8w0p6", "author": "/u/DueCarry3624", "updated": "2026-06-02T02:49:59+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tucm1p/i_built_an_automated_forex_trading_bot_with_zero/op8w0p6/", "content": "Yeah Claude helped with the strategies too, I just told it what I wanted and it wrote the code. Honestly had no idea what I was doing at first lol. Win rate on the Bollinger Bands strategy was 100% its first day which was wild, EMA Scalping is sitting around 44%. Still pretty early so we'll see how it holds up. The email alerts are my favorite part, getting a notification every time a trade wins hits different" }, { "id": "t1_op8z3us", "author": "/u/insurancepapa", "updated": "2026-06-02T03:09:46+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tucm1p/i_built_an_automated_forex_trading_bot_with_zero/op8z3us/", "content": "Following" }, { "id": "t1_op91nn6", "author": "/u/lananpips", "updated": "2026-06-02T03:26:37+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tucm1p/i_built_an_automated_forex_trading_bot_with_zero/op91nn6/", "content": "did you do a backtest and got positive results? if so, good luck; if not, i recommend you do, so you don’t waste any more time." }, { "id": "t1_op9zrsr", "author": "/u/Funky_Pigeon-", "updated": "2026-06-02T07:50:17+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tucm1p/i_built_an_automated_forex_trading_bot_with_zero/op9zrsr/", "content": "While it's helpful. I agree. Relying on what's happened in the past holds no guarantees on what will happen in the future. Especially right now, all it takes is one tail event (even an X post) to make or break you. It's wild out there. So I hope OP don't ape in if back test hits all greens. The key to success is surviving long term, not thriving short term." }, { "id": "t1_op9ck35", "author": "", "updated": "2026-06-02T04:42:24+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tucm1p/i_built_an_automated_forex_trading_bot_with_zero/op9ck35/", "content": "[deleted]" }, { "id": "t1_op9clxs", "author": "/u/RemindMeBot", "updated": "2026-06-02T04:42:47+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tucm1p/i_built_an_automated_forex_trading_bot_with_zero/op9clxs/", "content": "I will be messaging you in 7 days on 2026-06-09 04:42:24 UTC to remind you of this link\n CLICK THIS LINK to send a PM to also be reminded and to reduce spam.\n Parent commenter can delete this message to hide from others.\n Info Custom Your Reminders Feedback" }, { "id": "t1_op9r1vo", "author": "/u/Altruistic_Cut7376", "updated": "2026-06-02T06:36:45+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tucm1p/i_built_an_automated_forex_trading_bot_with_zero/op9r1vo/", "content": "What is a backtest?" }, { "id": "t1_op9uhcy", "author": "/u/supremenewfuck", "updated": "2026-06-02T07:04:56+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tucm1p/i_built_an_automated_forex_trading_bot_with_zero/op9uhcy/", "content": "You test your strategy back in time. So you go back a time period from now and check how your bot would’ve performed until now." }, { "id": "t1_opbbqu2", "author": "/u/Altruistic_Cut7376", "updated": "2026-06-02T13:23:54+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tucm1p/i_built_an_automated_forex_trading_bot_with_zero/opbbqu2/", "content": "Thanks for the clarification. That is a good technique." }, { "id": "t1_opa2c1f", "author": "/u/Opening-Berry-6041", "updated": "2026-06-02T08:12:28+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tucm1p/i_built_an_automated_forex_trading_bot_with_zero/opa2c1f/", "content": "Dude, how'd you get Claude to actually write code that doesn't just spit out pseudocode or generic suggestions, that's the real magic part, right?" }, { "id": "t1_opaep13", "author": "/u/skycoder1010", "updated": "2026-06-02T09:58:42+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tucm1p/i_built_an_automated_forex_trading_bot_with_zero/opaep13/", "content": "How does the bot do the background trading and send emails to you, you must have it running 24/7 right, are you running it from your computer?" }, { "id": "t1_opb1z6x", "author": "/u/Salty_Definition_191", "updated": "2026-06-02T12:32:43+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tucm1p/i_built_an_automated_forex_trading_bot_with_zero/opb1z6x/", "content": "It especifically states that it is only running during London/NYC session hours so it doesn't need to be 24/7, not even close to that. It's like 14/5 at best." }, { "id": "t1_opagvja", "author": "/u/Turbulent_Pain_421", "updated": "2026-06-02T10:15:45+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tucm1p/i_built_an_automated_forex_trading_bot_with_zero/opagvja/", "content": "Would you be able to please share the documented steps?" }, { "id": "t1_opfss3v", "author": "/u/sector7chi", "updated": "2026-06-03T02:21:51+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tucm1p/i_built_an_automated_forex_trading_bot_with_zero/opfss3v/", "content": "Don’t worry you’ll be able to buy his course real soon! 😂" }, { "id": "t1_opaohr2", "author": "/u/alwaysvalue", "updated": "2026-06-02T11:10:37+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tucm1p/i_built_an_automated_forex_trading_bot_with_zero/opaohr2/", "content": "Very cool project.\n My biggest question would be around validation rather than coding. Building the bot is one thing, but proving it has an edge across different market conditions is the hard part.\n Have you done any long-term backtesting or forward testing beyond the demo account?" }, { "id": "t1_opbtaui", "author": "/u/_Stony", "updated": "2026-06-02T14:47:25+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tucm1p/i_built_an_automated_forex_trading_bot_with_zero/opbtaui/", "content": "Latency is a bot killer so prepare canary runs" }, { "id": "t1_opejf3a", "author": "/u/srhvnty", "updated": "2026-06-02T22:10:10+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tucm1p/i_built_an_automated_forex_trading_bot_with_zero/opejf3a/", "content": "Hi! Aside from Claude, what other services did you utilize to make it happen?" }, { "id": "t1_oph637i", "author": "/u/LeaderAtLeading", "updated": "2026-06-03T08:24:47+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tucm1p/i_built_an_automated_forex_trading_bot_with_zero/oph637i/", "content": "Forex bots with no trading experience is a fast way to lose money. Be careful." }, { "id": "t1_opbdgqh", "author": "/u/evanl714", "updated": "2026-06-02T13:32:27+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tucm1p/i_built_an_automated_forex_trading_bot_with_zero/opbdgqh/", "content": "It's not going to be profitable lmao" } ] }, { "source": "r/passive_income hot", "id": "t3_1tv5n9j", "title": "A New Way To Organize", "author": "/u/Its_VentureAI", "updated": "2026-06-02T22:00:33+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tv5n9j/a_new_way_to_organize/", "content": "Hello, I’ve finished creating\n ‘A New Way To Organize’\n If you spend hours a day at a desktop or laptop, you know how tough it can be to stay organized. Using different apps and programs to keep track of all of your tasks, goals and other random things can get pretty hectic.\n What I have created is all of that and then done in ONE!\n I’m offering the first 5 people to reply, a free version of this Personalized Operation System!\n submitted by /u/Its_VentureAI\n [link] [comments]", "contentHtml": "

Hello, I’ve finished creating
‘A New Way To Organize’

If you spend hours a day at a desktop or laptop, you know how tough it can be to stay organized. Using different apps and programs to keep track of all of your tasks, goals and other random things can get pretty hectic.

What I have created is all of that and then done in ONE!
I’m offering the first 5 people to reply, a free version of this Personalized Operation System!

submitted by /u/Its_VentureAI
[link] [comments]", "comments": [ { "id": "t1_opehkp8", "author": "/u/AutoModerator", "updated": "2026-06-02T22:00:34+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tv5n9j/a_new_way_to_organize/opehkp8/", "content": "Check out the Community Highlights for current and future Mod Vetted opportunities and Newsletter Episodes.\n Please do due diligence on any crypto opportunity. A simple google search could save you a fortune.\n I am a bot, and this action was performed automatically. Please contact the moderators of this subreddit if you have any questions or concerns." }, { "id": "t1_opeikx1", "author": "/u/Aggressive_Ad_2308", "updated": "2026-06-02T22:05:46+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tv5n9j/a_new_way_to_organize/opeikx1/", "content": "Versione gratuita" }, { "id": "t1_opgzv16", "author": "/u/offfear", "updated": "2026-06-03T07:30:15+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tv5n9j/a_new_way_to_organize/opgzv16/", "content": "need it" } ] }, { "source": "r/passive_income hot", "id": "t3_1tv5jte", "title": "Can I monetise Tiktok if Im from New Zealand", "author": "/u/AppleCrumble15", "updated": "2026-06-02T21:57:07+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tv5jte/can_i_monetise_tiktok_if_im_from_new_zealand/", "content": "I recently joined Tiktok, I should have 10k followers in a couple months. But it appears the creator fund for Tiktok is not available in New Zealand. So how are NZ'ers making money of Tiktok?\n Does anyone know id the creator fund will ever be available to New Zealanders?\n submitted by /u/AppleCrumble15\n [link] [comments]", "contentHtml": "

I recently joined Tiktok, I should have 10k followers in a couple months. But it appears the creator fund for Tiktok is not available in New Zealand. So how are NZ'ers making money of Tiktok?

Does anyone know id the creator fund will ever be available to New Zealanders?

submitted by /u/AppleCrumble15
[link] [comments]", "comments": [ { "id": "t1_opegw93", "author": "/u/AutoModerator", "updated": "2026-06-02T21:57:07+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tv5jte/can_i_monetise_tiktok_if_im_from_new_zealand/opegw93/", "content": "Check out the Community Highlights for current and future Mod Vetted opportunities and Newsletter Episodes.\n Please do due diligence on any crypto opportunity. A simple google search could save you a fortune.\n I am a bot, and this action was performed automatically. Please contact the moderators of this subreddit if you have any questions or concerns." } ] }, { "source": "r/passive_income hot", "id": "t3_1tv54jw", "title": "Building passive income from scratch with little capital: A practical starting plan", "author": "/u/lroberson80", "updated": "2026-06-02T21:40:56+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tv54jw/building_passive_income_from_scratch_with_little/", "content": "If you have more time than money, treat passive income like asset building, not money flipping. Start with things that cost little to create and can be reused many times.\n Step 1: Pick a problem you already understand.\n Choose something from your job, hobby, or daily life. Good examples: budgeting, meal prep, job searching, client onboarding, study notes, or local service referrals. Familiar problems are easier to solve well.\n Step 2: Build a small asset around that problem.\n Start with one simple format: checklist, template, guide, mini digital product, niche newsletter, or comparison database. Don’t start with five ideas. Build one thing people can use right away.\n Step 3: Validate before expanding.\n Share the idea with 10-20 people who match your audience. Ask what’s missing, what they currently use, and what would save them time. Feedback is cheaper than building the wrong thing.\n Step 4: Set up repeatable distribution.\n Post helpful tips consistently around the same topic. Turn one idea into multiple pieces of content. The goal is to create a path where the same asset gets discovered without you starting from zero each week.\n Step 5: Reinvest early earnings.\n Use the first dollars to improve design, automation, or research. Small capital grows faster when it strengthens something already working.\n Passive income from scratch is rarely passive in month one. But if you build useful assets, simplify delivery, and improve based on real feedback, it can become lighter and more consistent over time.\n submitted by /u/lroberson80\n [link] [comments]", "contentHtml": "

If you have more time than money, treat passive income like asset building, not money flipping. Start with things that cost little to create and can be reused many times.

Step 1: Pick a problem you already understand.
Choose something from your job, hobby, or daily life. Good examples: budgeting, meal prep, job searching, client onboarding, study notes, or local service referrals. Familiar problems are easier to solve well.

Step 2: Build a small asset around that problem.
Start with one simple format: checklist, template, guide, mini digital product, niche newsletter, or comparison database. Don’t start with five ideas. Build one thing people can use right away.

Step 3: Validate before expanding.
Share the idea with 10-20 people who match your audience. Ask what’s missing, what they currently use, and what would save them time. Feedback is cheaper than building the wrong thing.

Step 4: Set up repeatable distribution.
Post helpful tips consistently around the same topic. Turn one idea into multiple pieces of content. The goal is to create a path where the same asset gets discovered without you starting from zero each week.

Step 5: Reinvest early earnings.
Use the first dollars to improve design, automation, or research. Small capital grows faster when it strengthens something already working.

Passive income from scratch is rarely passive in month one. But if you build useful assets, simplify delivery, and improve based on real feedback, it can become lighter and more consistent over time.

submitted by /u/lroberson80
[link] [comments]", "comments": [ { "id": "t1_opednof", "author": "/u/AutoModerator", "updated": "2026-06-02T21:40:56+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tv54jw/building_passive_income_from_scratch_with_little/opednof/", "content": "Check out the Community Highlights for current and future Mod Vetted opportunities and Newsletter Episodes.\n Please do due diligence on any crypto opportunity. A simple google search could save you a fortune.\n I am a bot, and this action was performed automatically. Please contact the moderators of this subreddit if you have any questions or concerns." }, { "id": "t1_opeflub", "author": "/u/RevolutionaryCrow663", "updated": "2026-06-02T21:50:41+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tv54jw/building_passive_income_from_scratch_with_little/opeflub/", "content": "Working on Ford restoration has taught me similar lesson about building from what you know well. Started documenting my process for carburetor rebuilds because kept getting same questions from other enthusiasts in forums. Now that simple guide generates steady income through small payments while I focus on actual restoration work.\n The validation part is so important - almost made mistake of creating comprehensive engine rebuild course before testing if people even wanted basic maintenance tips first." }, { "id": "t1_opestgk", "author": "/u/JJ-Mallon", "updated": "2026-06-02T22:59:14+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tv54jw/building_passive_income_from_scratch_with_little/opestgk/", "content": "Step 6. Get a job after you lose all of your money" } ] }, { "source": "r/passive_income hot", "id": "t3_1tuoohj", "title": "Hot take: If your \"passive income\" needs daily decisions, it's just a second job with a nicer name", "author": "/u/Agitated_Mix_1178", "updated": "2026-06-02T11:55:18+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tuoohj/hot_take_if_your_passive_income_needs_daily/", "content": "I keep seeing people (I was guilty of this too) chase "passive income" ideas that still make you show up every day and make decisions: what to post, what to flip, what to optimize, who to message, what to list, what to negotiate.\n As a busy mom of two and the default planner in my house, I learned the hard way that the real cost is not hours but decision fatigue. The moment something requires daily judgment calls, it starts fighting with dinner, homework and keeping everyone on track. It often fails not because the idea was bad, but because the setup was fragile.\n Here is how I define truly passive-ish income. It has two traits.\n 1. The work is front-loaded and repeatable, so you can batch it and follow a checklist.\n 2. After setup, maintenance is weekly or monthly, not daily.\n So I am way more interested in dull, low-drama things: a simple allocation into broad index funds with dividends automatically reinvested, or a small digital product that sells without constant content. Recently, I discovered a service that helps automate some of my digital product sales, which has made things a lot easier. Renting out a room can be semi-passive if you have firm rules and systems, but it becomes active fast if you are always answering messages and dealing with turnover.\n Where does this sub land? Do you call something passive if it takes one to two hours a week, or is your definition stricter? What is the most low-decision, low-maintenance income stream you have actually kept running for a year?\n submitted by /u/Agitated_Mix_1178\n [link] [comments]", "contentHtml": "

I keep seeing people (I was guilty of this too) chase "passive income" ideas that still make you show up every day and make decisions: what to post, what to flip, what to optimize, who to message, what to list, what to negotiate.

As a busy mom of two and the default planner in my house, I learned the hard way that the real cost is not hours but decision fatigue. The moment something requires daily judgment calls, it starts fighting with dinner, homework and keeping everyone on track. It often fails not because the idea was bad, but because the setup was fragile.

Here is how I define truly passive-ish income. It has two traits.
1. The work is front-loaded and repeatable, so you can batch it and follow a checklist.
2. After setup, maintenance is weekly or monthly, not daily.

So I am way more interested in dull, low-drama things: a simple allocation into broad index funds with dividends automatically reinvested, or a small digital product that sells without constant content. Recently, I discovered a service that helps automate some of my digital product sales, which has made things a lot easier. Renting out a room can be semi-passive if you have firm rules and systems, but it becomes active fast if you are always answering messages and dealing with turnover.

Where does this sub land? Do you call something passive if it takes one to two hours a week, or is your definition stricter? What is the most low-decision, low-maintenance income stream you have actually kept running for a year?

submitted by /u/Agitated_Mix_1178
[link] [comments]", "comments": [ { "id": "t1_opavhh7", "author": "/u/AutoModerator", "updated": "2026-06-02T11:55:18+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tuoohj/hot_take_if_your_passive_income_needs_daily/opavhh7/", "content": "Check out the Community Highlights for current and future Mod Vetted opportunities and Newsletter Episodes.\n Please do due diligence on any crypto opportunity. A simple google search could save you a fortune.\n I am a bot, and this action was performed automatically. Please contact the moderators of this subreddit if you have any questions or concerns." }, { "id": "t1_opbkqe7", "author": "", "updated": "2026-06-02T14:07:47+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tuoohj/hot_take_if_your_passive_income_needs_daily/opbkqe7/", "content": "[deleted]" }, { "id": "t1_opcvdk4", "author": "/u/MoonwhisperastDye", "updated": "2026-06-02T17:34:19+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tuoohj/hot_take_if_your_passive_income_needs_daily/opcvdk4/", "content": "[ Removed by Reddit ]" }, { "id": "t1_opc1ez8", "author": "/u/Kareni_Davis", "updated": "2026-06-02T15:23:48+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tuoohj/hot_take_if_your_passive_income_needs_daily/opc1ez8/", "content": "The decision fatigue framing is exactly right. Staking on wewake platform is probably the closest thing i`ve found to actual passive, you make one decision upfront, lock it, and don't touch it for a month or three. No daily judgment calls. Everything else i`ve tried had a hidden "show up daily" requirement buried somewhere." }, { "id": "t1_opdjky9", "author": "/u/Drumroll-PH", "updated": "2026-06-02T19:20:31+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tuoohj/hot_take_if_your_passive_income_needs_daily/opdjky9/", "content": "Something stops feeling passive the moment it requires daily decisions, even if the actual time spent is low, because the mental load is what eventually drains you." } ] }, { "source": "r/passive_income top month", "id": "t3_1t9nz8q", "title": "Started doing tiny IT jobs for local businesses because nobody else wanted them", "author": "/u/eckoonian", "updated": "2026-05-11T00:42:25+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t9nz8q/started_doing_tiny_it_jobs_for_local_businesses/", "content": "I work in IT full time and kept seeing small businesses with the same boring problems. bad wifi, printers dropping off, email issues, old laptops, no proper backups, shared folders that made no sense.\n started doing the odd evening job locally and it slowly became referral based. after a while i noticed most of the repeat work was the same stuff over and over, so i turned it into simple monthly checkups instead of one-off fixes.\n nothing fancy. once a month i remote in, check backups, updates, antivirus, storage space, basic network health, and send them a short “all good / fix this” summary. if something small needs sorting, i do it there and then. bigger jobs get quoted separately.\n i now have a handful of small businesses paying £40-£75/month each just so someone is keeping an eye on things. it takes maybe 2-4 hours a month total unless something breaks.\n brings in around £300-£500/month fairly consistently. not fully passive, but way more predictable than random callouts, and most of it is just scheduled checks from my laptop.\n biggest lesson is small businesses do not always want a full managed IT contract. sometimes they just want someone reliable making sure the boring stuff is not quietly falling apart.\n submitted by /u/eckoonian\n [link] [comments]", "contentHtml": "

I work in IT full time and kept seeing small businesses with the same boring problems. bad wifi, printers dropping off, email issues, old laptops, no proper backups, shared folders that made no sense.

started doing the odd evening job locally and it slowly became referral based. after a while i noticed most of the repeat work was the same stuff over and over, so i turned it into simple monthly checkups instead of one-off fixes.

nothing fancy. once a month i remote in, check backups, updates, antivirus, storage space, basic network health, and send them a short “all good / fix this” summary. if something small needs sorting, i do it there and then. bigger jobs get quoted separately.

i now have a handful of small businesses paying £40-£75/month each just so someone is keeping an eye on things. it takes maybe 2-4 hours a month total unless something breaks.

brings in around £300-£500/month fairly consistently. not fully passive, but way more predictable than random callouts, and most of it is just scheduled checks from my laptop.

biggest lesson is small businesses do not always want a full managed IT contract. sometimes they just want someone reliable making sure the boring stuff is not quietly falling apart.

submitted by /u/eckoonian
[link] [comments]", "comments": [ { "id": "t1_ol3elzg", "author": "/u/AutoModerator", "updated": "2026-05-11T00:42:25+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t9nz8q/started_doing_tiny_it_jobs_for_local_businesses/ol3elzg/", "content": "Check out the Community Highlights for current and future Mod Vetted opportunities and Newsletter Episodes.\n Please do due diligence on any crypto opportunity. A simple google search could save you a fortune.\n I am a bot, and this action was performed automatically. Please contact the moderators of this subreddit if you have any questions or concerns." }, { "id": "t1_ol3g9jl", "author": "", "updated": "2026-05-11T00:52:03+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t9nz8q/started_doing_tiny_it_jobs_for_local_businesses/ol3g9jl/", "content": "[deleted]" }, { "id": "t1_ol3q70y", "author": "/u/eckoonian", "updated": "2026-05-11T01:52:06+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t9nz8q/started_doing_tiny_it_jobs_for_local_businesses/ol3q70y/", "content": "Well I will have in a moment 😂" }, { "id": "t1_ol3y05f", "author": "/u/Bradruler", "updated": "2026-05-11T02:39:54+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t9nz8q/started_doing_tiny_it_jobs_for_local_businesses/ol3y05f/", "content": "Don’t let the jabrones on the bench dictate how you shoot your shot! I ain’t saying their words are worthless, just that they aren’t worth more than yours." }, { "id": "t1_olq9kqc", "author": "/u/ai-techguy001", "updated": "2026-05-14T09:25:38+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t9nz8q/started_doing_tiny_it_jobs_for_local_businesses/olq9kqc/", "content": "haha appreciate the energy" }, { "id": "t1_ol7uutg", "author": "/u/TetSusKhal", "updated": "2026-05-11T17:38:10+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t9nz8q/started_doing_tiny_it_jobs_for_local_businesses/ol7uutg/", "content": "hope you know what you’re getting into. It can be a lot of work managing those smaller jobs, especially when clients expect quick fixes... Just make sure it doesn't eat into your main job too much." }, { "id": "t1_ol4em5u", "author": "/u/DougKemp", "updated": "2026-05-11T04:38:19+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t9nz8q/started_doing_tiny_it_jobs_for_local_businesses/ol4em5u/", "content": "The UK and liability 😂 it's such a pain in the ass. Down here in the former colonies. If your stuff breaks it's on the business. The IT tech looking after the boring stuff is the insurance policy. I'd just put a terms and conditions line in to whatever contract they sign saying this is a part time role with liability limited to what they are paying you and whatever the extenuating circumstance may be in terms of hardware and software, security or user error is ultimately the responsibility of the client. If they wanted a full-time admin they should pay for one and their business insurance should cover unforeseen." }, { "id": "t1_om4830g", "author": "/u/ai-techguy001", "updated": "2026-05-16T11:55:47+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t9nz8q/started_doing_tiny_it_jobs_for_local_businesses/om4830g/", "content": "yeah that liability cap clause is pretty standard, just make sure it's clearly worded and they actually read it before signing." }, { "id": "t1_ol3j1i7", "author": "/u/mjmacka", "updated": "2026-05-11T01:08:22+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t9nz8q/started_doing_tiny_it_jobs_for_local_businesses/ol3j1i7/", "content": "This needs an upvoter or 100." }, { "id": "t1_ol3p4fi", "author": "/u/Bradruler", "updated": "2026-05-11T01:45:35+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t9nz8q/started_doing_tiny_it_jobs_for_local_businesses/ol3p4fi/", "content": "What would fail, that could be so catastrophic that someone pursues legal action?" }, { "id": "t1_ol3q5qm", "author": "/u/SabreLily", "updated": "2026-05-11T01:51:53+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t9nz8q/started_doing_tiny_it_jobs_for_local_businesses/ol3q5qm/", "content": "People are litigious. By the time you have an answer to that question, it's too late to prepare for it. So better to prepare in advance." }, { "id": "t1_ol3tgri", "author": "/u/soundreasoning123", "updated": "2026-05-11T02:11:52+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t9nz8q/started_doing_tiny_it_jobs_for_local_businesses/ol3tgri/", "content": "As a lawyer, in my experience, most people are not litigious. Some people are very litigious, but most people are not." }, { "id": "t1_ol3ve22", "author": "/u/Bradruler", "updated": "2026-05-11T02:23:30+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t9nz8q/started_doing_tiny_it_jobs_for_local_businesses/ol3ve22/", "content": "This confirms my beliefs and bias, so I’m gonna choice to add on here lol. In the context op gave, I just find it difficult to believe a small business owner is or even could take some time out of the business too instead spend it in court. Especially with the mostly low stakes things they gave examples of, I also can’t see op putting themselves in a position of such risk" }, { "id": "t1_ol3z3m8", "author": "/u/SabreLily", "updated": "2026-05-11T02:46:59+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t9nz8q/started_doing_tiny_it_jobs_for_local_businesses/ol3z3m8/", "content": "Sorry yes I didn't mean to imply most or all people. But some people are.\n I've worked with several small business owners over the years and I've encountered a few that are just a little odd in the head and are looking to start fights and looking for someone to blame when anything goes wrong.\n One guy I'm thinking of in particular actually went and tried to sue Yahoo because there was a problem with his website being down (Yahoo discontinued the website hosting he was using). It literally affected him for half a day before I got him switched to a new host. His business involves giving very occasional seminars so it's not like he was losing a bunch of money off of missed orders or anything.\n He was already independently wealthy. I think he enjoyed starting shit for fun." }, { "id": "t1_ol41b79", "author": "/u/ku2000", "updated": "2026-05-11T03:01:44+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t9nz8q/started_doing_tiny_it_jobs_for_local_businesses/ol41b79/", "content": "He sounds like he has too much tjme on his hands." }, { "id": "t1_ol41hvl", "author": "/u/SabreLily", "updated": "2026-05-11T03:03:00+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t9nz8q/started_doing_tiny_it_jobs_for_local_businesses/ol41hvl/", "content": "He gave like 4 seminars a year, so yeah, entirely too much time on his hands lol." }, { "id": "t1_ol4o7b6", "author": "/u/Infectedtoe32", "updated": "2026-05-11T05:56:22+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t9nz8q/started_doing_tiny_it_jobs_for_local_businesses/ol4o7b6/", "content": "It sounds like these mom and pop shops he is helping would also need to almost spend their yearly earnings on legal fees. Sounds like way more trouble than what it’s worth tbh, especially when he said he’s sticking to simple (presumably tier 1) things. Basically “oh no! You broke our $300 printer. We are going to sue you to the ground!” Would really be “Yea, that damn thing was getting old and clunky anyways. Can you help us find a new one to setup that would be good?”, “Sure, and since I broke it I’ll buy it too”… conversation ends up turning into a 50/50 split and a month free or something. People think every business is ran by a billionaire who is blood seeking money 24/7." }, { "id": "t1_om38oiy", "author": "/u/Pretend-Werewolf5425", "updated": "2026-05-16T06:52:12+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t9nz8q/started_doing_tiny_it_jobs_for_local_businesses/om38oiy/", "content": "It's only part of "people" that believe that: Americans." }, { "id": "t1_ol4iybk", "author": "/u/snortgiggles", "updated": "2026-05-11T05:12:52+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t9nz8q/started_doing_tiny_it_jobs_for_local_businesses/ol4iybk/", "content": "In the US that's certainly true ... But is it the same in the UK?" }, { "id": "t1_ol4m540", "author": "/u/SabreLily", "updated": "2026-05-11T05:39:14+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t9nz8q/started_doing_tiny_it_jobs_for_local_businesses/ol4m540/", "content": "Oh you're right. My brain definitely replaced pounds with dollars as I was reading that. The UK is definitely less litigious" }, { "id": "t1_ol3r44e", "author": "/u/roflsst", "updated": "2026-05-11T01:57:43+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t9nz8q/started_doing_tiny_it_jobs_for_local_businesses/ol3r44e/", "content": "There's a million different reasons but MSPs carry liability insurance to protect themselves against backup failures or other IT issues that could cause a client to lose money or data and potentially come after you for their losses." }, { "id": "t1_ol3xipq", "author": "/u/Bradruler", "updated": "2026-05-11T02:36:46+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t9nz8q/started_doing_tiny_it_jobs_for_local_businesses/ol3xipq/", "content": "While I agree and understand that there is a reason for it, op here is specifically targeting “the boring stuff”, with that context I’m more so picking buds brain here about what nightmare they might’ve imagined. To be clear I’m not saying op should or should not have insurance, just that op has an understanding of their abilities and don’t believe they’d easily put themselves in a position to be sued, nor do I think most average people want to be in court rooms instead of making money" }, { "id": "t1_ol49240", "author": "/u/No_Heron_8757", "updated": "2026-05-11T03:56:31+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t9nz8q/started_doing_tiny_it_jobs_for_local_businesses/ol49240/", "content": "The business may not sue you directly, but their insurance would be happy to if they have to pay out a cyber/tech claim because of a contractor’s mistake.\n OP is playing around in a lot of high-risk areas for this. Easy for a cybersecurity or file backup slip up to wreck a small business. There’s good reason MSPs can’t bill this low." }, { "id": "t1_ol6pkf5", "author": "/u/ShermansWorld", "updated": "2026-05-11T14:32:33+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t9nz8q/started_doing_tiny_it_jobs_for_local_businesses/ol6pkf5/", "content": "IDK how this mentality works; unless the MSP is so irresponsible; just because they look after you, there should be zero issues that cost a company $?\n And the comment about someone trying to sue Yahoo... geez." }, { "id": "t1_ol68p5b", "author": "/u/ProfessionalSea6268", "updated": "2026-05-11T13:09:14+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t9nz8q/started_doing_tiny_it_jobs_for_local_businesses/ol68p5b/", "content": "Loss of data or causing a security incident (or making one worse) for two." }, { "id": "t1_oln8wg4", "author": "/u/FrostyFaraday", "updated": "2026-05-13T21:28:18+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t9nz8q/started_doing_tiny_it_jobs_for_local_businesses/oln8wg4/", "content": "Someone I know tried to claim millions in damages against an IT company because the anti-virus interrupted their work flow while it disinfected their system for a few minutes and they said it stopped them from taking a zoom call worth millions." }, { "id": "t1_ol4zxag", "author": "/u/dimreformer", "updated": "2026-05-11T07:38:49+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t9nz8q/started_doing_tiny_it_jobs_for_local_businesses/ol4zxag/", "content": "Get a quote from a proper tech liability provider before you take on anything bigger, mate, they're not that pricey for side gigs." }, { "id": "t1_ol3pdc9", "author": "/u/GinnyJr", "updated": "2026-05-11T01:47:06+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t9nz8q/started_doing_tiny_it_jobs_for_local_businesses/ol3pdc9/", "content": "You’re running an MSP and you dont even know it" }, { "id": "t1_ol45kz7", "author": "/u/frisomic21", "updated": "2026-05-11T03:31:31+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t9nz8q/started_doing_tiny_it_jobs_for_local_businesses/ol45kz7/", "content": "Came here to say this lol" }, { "id": "t1_ol43m21", "author": "/u/SatayMY", "updated": "2026-05-11T03:17:41+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t9nz8q/started_doing_tiny_it_jobs_for_local_businesses/ol43m21/", "content": "what is an MSP?" }, { "id": "t1_ol449e7", "author": "/u/major-crimes", "updated": "2026-05-11T03:22:13+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t9nz8q/started_doing_tiny_it_jobs_for_local_businesses/ol449e7/", "content": "Managed service provider" }, { "id": "t1_ol44c2z", "author": "/u/SatayMY", "updated": "2026-05-11T03:22:44+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t9nz8q/started_doing_tiny_it_jobs_for_local_businesses/ol44c2z/", "content": "Thank you so much" }, { "id": "t1_ooakvgc", "author": "/u/ToffeeFinance", "updated": "2026-05-28T02:09:31+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t9nz8q/started_doing_tiny_it_jobs_for_local_businesses/ooakvgc/", "content": "Also came here to say that" }, { "id": "t1_ol3loof", "author": "/u/ErgoMogoFOMO", "updated": "2026-05-11T01:24:14+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t9nz8q/started_doing_tiny_it_jobs_for_local_businesses/ol3loof/", "content": "Once these companies have been with you for 3-6 months, you should adjust your prices.\n They're currently getting a killer deal. For anything business related, paying less than $50 an hour is unheard of. Less than $75 an hour is a good deal. Converted that's... What £35/£55?" }, { "id": "t1_ol3qd34", "author": "/u/eckoonian", "updated": "2026-05-11T01:53:08+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t9nz8q/started_doing_tiny_it_jobs_for_local_businesses/ol3qd34/", "content": "I have been thinking that I’ve been doing it for 6 months already and I would say it is a good deal currently" }, { "id": "t1_ol48tcd", "author": "/u/extraketchupthx", "updated": "2026-05-11T03:54:44+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t9nz8q/started_doing_tiny_it_jobs_for_local_businesses/ol48tcd/", "content": "It’s time. All new clients get like a 40% raise in rates and you’re existing clients could get something grandfathered, maybe a 25-30% but raise your prices for sure." }, { "id": "t1_onqhges", "author": "/u/P16092", "updated": "2026-05-25T05:32:56+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t9nz8q/started_doing_tiny_it_jobs_for_local_businesses/onqhges/", "content": "Yeah raising rates is business, not greed, they understand that eventually." }, { "id": "t1_onqhddy", "author": "/u/P16092", "updated": "2026-05-25T05:32:15+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t9nz8q/started_doing_tiny_it_jobs_for_local_businesses/onqhddy/", "content": "MSP model just makes sense, predictable income beats sporadic maintenance calls." }, { "id": "t1_ol3nuf7", "author": "/u/Excel_User_1977", "updated": "2026-05-11T01:37:40+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t9nz8q/started_doing_tiny_it_jobs_for_local_businesses/ol3nuf7/", "content": "https://www.xe.com/\n converts most currency for the exchange value of that day.\n Since he 'has a handful' and it is 2 to 4 hours, he is making at least £50 per hour since each one is less than an hour (and he quotes £45-£75 per 1x per month review)" }, { "id": "t1_om9esga", "author": "/u/JohnConstantinedrink", "updated": "2026-05-17T06:14:00+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t9nz8q/started_doing_tiny_it_jobs_for_local_businesses/om9esga/", "content": "Why? If the almost passive income is good for minimum work, why raise prices.\n Don’t do it just because you can, raise prices because you need to.\n Christ, if a shop raised its prices people will moan about it, but then in the next breath talk about how someone should raise their prices." }, { "id": "t1_om2gqgz", "author": "/u/ai-techguy001", "updated": "2026-05-16T03:11:59+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t9nz8q/started_doing_tiny_it_jobs_for_local_businesses/om2gqgz/", "content": "yeah once they see the value and you've got a track record with them the price conversation gets way easier, they're not buying "IT guy" anymore they're buying peace of mind which is worth more." }, { "id": "t1_om3ra7f", "author": "/u/Beautiful-Bunch9695", "updated": "2026-05-16T09:42:16+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t9nz8q/started_doing_tiny_it_jobs_for_local_businesses/om3ra7f/", "content": "£55 an hour on salary would put you in top 1 percent of earners if your wondering about ppp" }, { "id": "t1_onqh8ow", "author": "/u/P16092", "updated": "2026-05-25T05:31:11+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t9nz8q/started_doing_tiny_it_jobs_for_local_businesses/onqh8ow/", "content": "pricing raises after 3-6 months keeps you from being underpaid forever." }, { "id": "t1_ony022o", "author": "/u/Equivalent-Jello-733", "updated": "2026-05-26T09:57:00+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t9nz8q/started_doing_tiny_it_jobs_for_local_businesses/ony022o/", "content": "yeah they need to know they gotta treat you better if they wanna keep you" }, { "id": "t1_ol3mgj7", "author": "/u/Cloudraa", "updated": "2026-05-11T01:29:07+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t9nz8q/started_doing_tiny_it_jobs_for_local_businesses/ol3mgj7/", "content": "this sounds like youre just running an msp but poorly lol" }, { "id": "t1_ol7lb4k", "author": "/u/wecouldbefree", "updated": "2026-05-11T16:56:11+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t9nz8q/started_doing_tiny_it_jobs_for_local_businesses/ol7lb4k/", "content": "How would you make it better? (Genuinely curious, since I'm trying to do something similar)" }, { "id": "t1_ol83cc9", "author": "/u/operativekiwi", "updated": "2026-05-11T18:15:39+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t9nz8q/started_doing_tiny_it_jobs_for_local_businesses/ol83cc9/", "content": "MSPs charge per seat They also use proper RMM software which generates alerts for you to action (and automate basically everything they can to reduce EHR/effective hourly rate)" }, { "id": "t1_olwvyth", "author": "/u/Guy_Incognito1970", "updated": "2026-05-15T08:27:23+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t9nz8q/started_doing_tiny_it_jobs_for_local_businesses/olwvyth/", "content": "More like right sizing" }, { "id": "t1_ol3xie3", "author": "/u/OrganicMolasses9791", "updated": "2026-05-11T02:36:42+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t9nz8q/started_doing_tiny_it_jobs_for_local_businesses/ol3xie3/", "content": "So when youre remoting in, are you using built in services in windows or 3rd party software like teamviewer? Or is it that you're using an account associated with a service they use for payroll and such? Kinda curious what all you offer them since I've done basic file mangement and payroll accounts before for a super small shop and didnt really think of expanding. Just curious how its done." }, { "id": "t1_ol5ciu9", "author": "/u/Independent_Laugh798", "updated": "2026-05-11T09:32:14+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t9nz8q/started_doing_tiny_it_jobs_for_local_businesses/ol5ciu9/", "content": "As a cyber criminal, I would also like to know but mostly because a business with remote access software installed will always get my attention as they are one of my favorite targets.\n While not all RA programs are exploitable, they frequently are and once they are, a huge chunk of your work is already done courtesy of the RA vendor and whoever installed it. Mm 1 ML" }, { "id": "t1_ol5mmlr", "author": "/u/OrganicMolasses9791", "updated": "2026-05-11T10:53:27+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t9nz8q/started_doing_tiny_it_jobs_for_local_businesses/ol5mmlr/", "content": "Thats something that i was thinking as well, I know most RA software can be exploited, especially by disgruntled employees in small businesses, so how would me as a service provider protect myself legally when the owner would be somehow like "heres a username and pass for our system, just keep me updated on what you did and ill pay you x amount"\n (this is over simplified because overly explaining a scenario isnt required imo)" }, { "id": "t1_om0g04p", "author": "/u/Commercial_Hearing", "updated": "2026-05-15T20:08:41+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t9nz8q/started_doing_tiny_it_jobs_for_local_businesses/om0g04p/", "content": "As a cyber criminal\n I love reddit lol" }, { "id": "t1_om1ldsw", "author": "/u/sideburns107", "updated": "2026-05-15T23:53:35+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t9nz8q/started_doing_tiny_it_jobs_for_local_businesses/om1ldsw/", "content": "As one who dabbles in the criminal side of cyber 😂😂" }, { "id": "t1_ol4gi43", "author": "/u/GearhedMG", "updated": "2026-05-11T04:53:04+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t9nz8q/started_doing_tiny_it_jobs_for_local_businesses/ol4gi43/", "content": "This sounds like one of those very active passive income streams." }, { "id": "t1_ol55q49", "author": "/u/Professional-Bat4134", "updated": "2026-05-11T08:31:06+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t9nz8q/started_doing_tiny_it_jobs_for_local_businesses/ol55q49/", "content": "This is a second job" }, { "id": "t1_ol3ybij", "author": "/u/rharrow", "updated": "2026-05-11T02:41:54+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t9nz8q/started_doing_tiny_it_jobs_for_local_businesses/ol3ybij/", "content": "How did you find the jobs? Did you make a post online or something? Did you approach local businesses to offer your services? Need a little more context there" }, { "id": "t1_ol43aq4", "author": "/u/cracked-tumbleweed", "updated": "2026-05-11T03:15:31+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t9nz8q/started_doing_tiny_it_jobs_for_local_businesses/ol43aq4/", "content": "My guess.\n Probably had friends, etc who kept complaining about the same issues OP mentioned.\n Friend either had the issue, or the friend worked for a small owner who did.\n From there he said it was referrals. I wouldn’t really trust a person cold calling my business out of the blue but I would trust a friend’s word that a person was legit." }, { "id": "t1_ol4aymc", "author": "/u/rharrow", "updated": "2026-05-11T04:10:32+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t9nz8q/started_doing_tiny_it_jobs_for_local_businesses/ol4aymc/", "content": "That would make sense, especially for a “one man band” local IT MSP" }, { "id": "t1_ol3wg69", "author": "/u/m_and_t", "updated": "2026-05-11T02:30:02+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t9nz8q/started_doing_tiny_it_jobs_for_local_businesses/ol3wg69/", "content": "You’re the War Dogs of IT!\n https://giphy.com/gifs/l2Sq0wMbDlllJAqs0" }, { "id": "t1_ol55o3h", "author": "/u/CypherBob", "updated": "2026-05-11T08:30:35+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t9nz8q/started_doing_tiny_it_jobs_for_local_businesses/ol55o3h/", "content": "Not passive at all, but an excellent business." }, { "id": "t1_ol4ojhi", "author": "/u/nikpelgr", "updated": "2026-05-11T05:59:14+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t9nz8q/started_doing_tiny_it_jobs_for_local_businesses/ol4ojhi/", "content": "Worked with that model 10yr ago. Mostly referrals. No ad on newspapers or fb ad or anything else. You build a personal brand which you support everyday. The catch is that you cannot get sick easily and cannot get a day off. Happened to miss my brother's wedding due to a demanding client who wanted the setup of the WiFi by the end of the week in his hotel. Otherwise, MSP is fine.\n I dropped it because I got internal IT in a company and had no time. All my clients did not care except from one who accepted the delayed response in his requests.\n Nowadays, I have another role but still MSPing this customer. He said "I cannot communicate with any other IT in the area. They are all dumb"." }, { "id": "t1_olmukpr", "author": "/u/digdeep2u", "updated": "2026-05-13T20:18:58+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t9nz8q/started_doing_tiny_it_jobs_for_local_businesses/olmukpr/", "content": "How would you advise someone to go about this in this day and age? Genuinely curious and interested. I have some experience in IT help desk and studying for CCNA currently." }, { "id": "t1_olmulrt", "author": "/u/digdeep2u", "updated": "2026-05-13T20:19:06+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t9nz8q/started_doing_tiny_it_jobs_for_local_businesses/olmulrt/", "content": "How would you advise someone to go about this in this day and age? Genuinely curious and interested. I have some experience in IT help desk and studying for CCNA currently." }, { "id": "t1_olt4o86", "author": "/u/nikpelgr", "updated": "2026-05-14T18:29:00+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t9nz8q/started_doing_tiny_it_jobs_for_local_businesses/olt4o86/", "content": "Build your personal brand. Invest in what your clients want: if it is required CCNA to get the next client, then do it. If they need a certified ... cloud engineer, be one. It depends on what kind of clients you want to support.\n There were times that I wanted to get the job done but needed a UTP network cable from there to there. The electrician would visit in 3 days and install one. Got client permission and I installed it by myself. Finished the same day. Got paid. As soon as I got busier and more money, delegated this to the client's electrician. One reason was that I didn't got time, a second one was that I could afford 2-3 days delay and third one, avoided damages (yes, this happened too).\n What it helped the personal branding? I was humble: never presented authority on a subject, even if I knew it very well. Second, be like Dr. House: the client always lies (on purpose or not) and try to help him by searching for the rare diseases. Do it on your site if you can (pickup his device to your lab and fix). Don't show how easy or difficult it was. Charge realistically in order to keep him happy and trust you. If you loose now, don't worry. Will get them next time.\n I live in a small place, so the previous IT guy might be a relative to the client. Don't accuse anyone just to agree with the client. "I might understand why he worked like that, let's try something different" and explain what you will do. ELI5 mode.\n Also, whatever you do reflects on your brand: clients will reference you for free. and they talk to each other. You build from rumor to fame. But, still, without any certifications you cannot get contracts with SME Companies, Institutions or state.\n Last, don't be afraid to drop a client. If they insult you, if they are causing money dept or any serious reason. Talking to other clients, MSPs or people who work for a client, you will understand if they can pay or not. I never delegated the payment date: as soon as the project finished, demanded payment the next day." }, { "id": "t1_olu3sio", "author": "/u/digdeep2u", "updated": "2026-05-14T21:15:29+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t9nz8q/started_doing_tiny_it_jobs_for_local_businesses/olu3sio/", "content": "Thank you very much" }, { "id": "t1_ol3s13y", "author": "/u/OkInternet3562", "updated": "2026-05-11T02:03:17+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t9nz8q/started_doing_tiny_it_jobs_for_local_businesses/ol3s13y/", "content": "Bravo! I applaud you!" }, { "id": "t1_ol61irk", "author": "/u/nickarg", "updated": "2026-05-11T12:29:15+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t9nz8q/started_doing_tiny_it_jobs_for_local_businesses/ol61irk/", "content": "I used to do this 20 years ago, and for young-me it was beneficial. Had many custy, used Second-copy to make cross-computer backups (S3 was not a thing yet), and in some cases I used DeepFreeze to "freeze" hard drives and avoid problems. I used to login with VNC.\n But now I'm totally outdated on what are the best tools for this job, specifically for Antivirus, anti spyware, backups. Would you mind sharing the software suit you use, or that you would recommend nowadays?\n Thank you!" }, { "id": "t1_om1d1xo", "author": "/u/Squircleton", "updated": "2026-05-15T23:04:29+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t9nz8q/started_doing_tiny_it_jobs_for_local_businesses/om1d1xo/", "content": "Tailscale is amazing nowadays. You don’t need anything open to the internet so you can use whatever remote software you want.\n My absolute fav is Rustdesk as you can have all clients accessible from one place. Combined with Tailscale it’s super easy." }, { "id": "t1_om1dgl4", "author": "/u/nickarg", "updated": "2026-05-15T23:06:50+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t9nz8q/started_doing_tiny_it_jobs_for_local_businesses/om1dgl4/", "content": "Interesting. I do use Wireguard at home, but I was asking more about the tools to run backup, scan for spyware, etc. Normal "maintenance" on Windows machines.\n I switched to Linux and Mac years ago so I'm totally disconnected from the Windows world." }, { "id": "t1_om1e2sj", "author": "/u/Squircleton", "updated": "2026-05-15T23:10:26+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t9nz8q/started_doing_tiny_it_jobs_for_local_businesses/om1e2sj/", "content": "Tailscale is so much better than just wireguard alone. Zero open ports required and there’s way more options for quickly accessing devices.\n Most of those things can just be done with Windows task scheduler. Malwarebytes etc. just checking for any issues on each machine and making sure things ran successfully.\n Backups depends entirely on how their backup is handled. Is it cloud based? Do they have a NAS? There’s no one answer to that." }, { "id": "t1_om1elpn", "author": "/u/nickarg", "updated": "2026-05-15T23:13:31+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t9nz8q/started_doing_tiny_it_jobs_for_local_businesses/om1elpn/", "content": "Yep I understand Tailscale advantages.\n For backups I use Duplicati which seems to work with NAS and Cloud, so I'd probably go that road.\n Back in the days I used Spybot search and destroy, not sure if it's still a thing these days. Will look at Malwarebytes." }, { "id": "t1_om1g409", "author": "/u/Squircleton", "updated": "2026-05-15T23:22:22+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t9nz8q/started_doing_tiny_it_jobs_for_local_businesses/om1g409/", "content": "I also use duplicati but on my unraid server." }, { "id": "t1_ol72keq", "author": "/u/Kareni_Davis", "updated": "2026-05-11T15:31:56+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t9nz8q/started_doing_tiny_it_jobs_for_local_businesses/ol72keq/", "content": "Turning repeated problems into a subscription is the actual insight here. Most freelancers think in one-off jobs, this is a completely different mental model." }, { "id": "t1_ol4258i", "author": "/u/Skibblezxoxo", "updated": "2026-05-11T03:07:31+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t9nz8q/started_doing_tiny_it_jobs_for_local_businesses/ol4258i/", "content": "Like everyone else said, you need to adjust prices eventually to maximize your time to pay ratio. IT is very desirable service as you mentioned so at least get payed a bit more for your time." }, { "id": "t1_ol51wqq", "author": "/u/Exc0re", "updated": "2026-05-11T07:56:37+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t9nz8q/started_doing_tiny_it_jobs_for_local_businesses/ol51wqq/", "content": "I would more be interested in the way to set everything up\n Do you have one "blueprint" with chosen softwares where you do backups?" }, { "id": "t1_ol7lhzf", "author": "/u/wecouldbefree", "updated": "2026-05-11T16:57:01+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t9nz8q/started_doing_tiny_it_jobs_for_local_businesses/ol7lhzf/", "content": "I'd be interested in this as well" }, { "id": "t1_ol5lyrn", "author": "/u/tmiggs20", "updated": "2026-05-11T10:48:42+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t9nz8q/started_doing_tiny_it_jobs_for_local_businesses/ol5lyrn/", "content": "How is working passive?" }, { "id": "t1_ol6umcv", "author": "/u/Royals-2015", "updated": "2026-05-11T14:56:04+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t9nz8q/started_doing_tiny_it_jobs_for_local_businesses/ol6umcv/", "content": "More of a side hustle." }, { "id": "t1_olh8qm4", "author": "/u/tmiggs20", "updated": "2026-05-13T00:44:55+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t9nz8q/started_doing_tiny_it_jobs_for_local_businesses/olh8qm4/", "content": "I agree, there’s a sub for that" }, { "id": "t1_ol45vsw", "author": "/u/captain_black_beard", "updated": "2026-05-11T03:33:39+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t9nz8q/started_doing_tiny_it_jobs_for_local_businesses/ol45vsw/", "content": "How did you sell yourself? How were you made aware they had issues kn the first place?" }, { "id": "t1_olan0rb", "author": "/u/Jealous_Value_5076", "updated": "2026-05-12T02:10:21+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t9nz8q/started_doing_tiny_it_jobs_for_local_businesses/olan0rb/", "content": "I work in a 2 man SMB IT Consulting gig.\n Easily the coolest and best job I’ve had in IT.\n Forget trash corporations!" }, { "id": "t1_ol6tqoo", "author": "/u/g3shh", "updated": "2026-05-11T14:52:04+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t9nz8q/started_doing_tiny_it_jobs_for_local_businesses/ol6tqoo/", "content": "how do you find such gigs" }, { "id": "t1_ol7ksbf", "author": "/u/wecouldbefree", "updated": "2026-05-11T16:53:57+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t9nz8q/started_doing_tiny_it_jobs_for_local_businesses/ol7ksbf/", "content": "Woah I just started this (Northeast US), and this is really encouraging to read. Did you have a website/contact form or anything?\n My biggest concerns are around liability (like someone else commented) and biting off more than I can chew. Like what if someone/a business has an issue that's way over my head?\n Also, what software do you use to remote in? Is this a business cost for you?" }, { "id": "t1_ol7615g", "author": "/u/thailannnnnnnnd", "updated": "2026-05-11T15:47:23+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t9nz8q/started_doing_tiny_it_jobs_for_local_businesses/ol7615g/", "content": "That’s called a second job my friend" }, { "id": "t1_ol8jdvn", "author": "/u/greenlight-approvals", "updated": "2026-05-11T19:29:33+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t9nz8q/started_doing_tiny_it_jobs_for_local_businesses/ol8jdvn/", "content": "I used to do this. Some things unavoidably take many hours to resolved or they used to.\n Do you just take that risk for 75 a month?" }, { "id": "t1_oldz41a", "author": "/u/biziguy", "updated": "2026-05-12T15:25:03+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t9nz8q/started_doing_tiny_it_jobs_for_local_businesses/oldz41a/", "content": "Very true. I am technically savvy and neighbour sought my help and I agreed to speed-up their PC and install free antivirus. Bloody took 3hrs as it took forever to load every time restarted. Used safe mode where I could. But still not worth it I felt." }, { "id": "t1_ole0aah", "author": "/u/greenlight-approvals", "updated": "2026-05-12T15:30:11+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t9nz8q/started_doing_tiny_it_jobs_for_local_businesses/ole0aah/", "content": "Yeah. You hope it events out over time. I’d take some flat rate jobs that turned out to be easy and others that took forever.\n Hurt every time it took forever." }, { "id": "t1_olbclhc", "author": "/u/Prestigious_Sea689", "updated": "2026-05-12T05:00:14+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t9nz8q/started_doing_tiny_it_jobs_for_local_businesses/olbclhc/", "content": "How did u get these jobs/contracts? Having hard time starting" }, { "id": "t1_olf032k", "author": "/u/throwaway1457322245", "updated": "2026-05-12T18:06:56+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t9nz8q/started_doing_tiny_it_jobs_for_local_businesses/olf032k/", "content": "That's not passive. I just read the title.\n I work in IT. It can be somewhat passive. But it is not passive income" }, { "id": "t1_oliysii", "author": "/u/blacknessofthevoid", "updated": "2026-05-13T07:51:26+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t9nz8q/started_doing_tiny_it_jobs_for_local_businesses/oliysii/", "content": "They are not paying you to “keep an eye on things”. I would bet that most don’t read your checkup updates. They pay you to be immediately available when something does break." }, { "id": "t1_omaf50n", "author": "/u/InfiniteWalrus1066", "updated": "2026-05-17T11:30:06+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t9nz8q/started_doing_tiny_it_jobs_for_local_businesses/omaf50n/", "content": "This is how it started for me. 15yrs later sold to private equity backed MSP and retired" }, { "id": "t1_omzr2t1", "author": "/u/TrueKiwi78", "updated": "2026-05-21T03:45:14+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t9nz8q/started_doing_tiny_it_jobs_for_local_businesses/omzr2t1/", "content": "How many clients did you have when you sold if you don't mind me asking?" }, { "id": "t1_on0cw3p", "author": "/u/InfiniteWalrus1066", "updated": "2026-05-21T06:29:59+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t9nz8q/started_doing_tiny_it_jobs_for_local_businesses/on0cw3p/", "content": "80" }, { "id": "t1_oo5jnwd", "author": "/u/AxUKenYGG", "updated": "2026-05-27T11:42:07+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t9nz8q/started_doing_tiny_it_jobs_for_local_businesses/oo5jnwd/", "content": "This is lowkey overlooked most of the time. You have to understand the customers doesn’t want fancy contracts, etc to make a deal. Sometimes just very straightforward and no hardsell" }, { "id": "t1_ol5rev4", "author": "/u/Edmond-Cristo", "updated": "2026-05-11T11:26:40+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t9nz8q/started_doing_tiny_it_jobs_for_local_businesses/ol5rev4/", "content": "2-4 hours a month for £40-£75/month? almost minimum wage?" }, { "id": "t1_ol6tkto", "author": "/u/Slushin21", "updated": "2026-05-11T14:51:20+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t9nz8q/started_doing_tiny_it_jobs_for_local_businesses/ol6tkto/", "content": "300-500 a month total for 2-4 hours a month total. The 40-75 is per buisness." }, { "id": "t1_om1c5d9", "author": "/u/Squircleton", "updated": "2026-05-15T22:59:07+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t9nz8q/started_doing_tiny_it_jobs_for_local_businesses/om1c5d9/", "content": "Reading is hard." }, { "id": "t1_ol6kerh", "author": "/u/jakeedwards17", "updated": "2026-05-11T14:08:09+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t9nz8q/started_doing_tiny_it_jobs_for_local_businesses/ol6kerh/", "content": "This is what I have always wanted to do outside of work, also in IT, how did you start off? Did\n You reach out to them?" }, { "id": "t1_ol72piz", "author": "/u/Enough_Charge2845", "updated": "2026-05-11T15:32:35+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t9nz8q/started_doing_tiny_it_jobs_for_local_businesses/ol72piz/", "content": "Do you have insurance?" }, { "id": "t1_ol733hy", "author": "/u/Ctrl-Patch-Delete", "updated": "2026-05-11T15:34:19+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t9nz8q/started_doing_tiny_it_jobs_for_local_businesses/ol733hy/", "content": "How do you get the clients for this?" }, { "id": "t1_ol768f3", "author": "/u/daphan", "updated": "2026-05-11T15:48:15+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t9nz8q/started_doing_tiny_it_jobs_for_local_businesses/ol768f3/", "content": "What kind of local businesses if i can ask" }, { "id": "t1_ol7dqdt", "author": "/u/No-Barber-1600", "updated": "2026-05-11T16:22:02+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t9nz8q/started_doing_tiny_it_jobs_for_local_businesses/ol7dqdt/", "content": "Great idea!" }, { "id": "t1_ol87r2g", "author": "/u/518Starbuzz", "updated": "2026-05-11T18:36:23+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t9nz8q/started_doing_tiny_it_jobs_for_local_businesses/ol87r2g/", "content": "Monthly payment should be increased and you’re set" }, { "id": "t1_ol8isgj", "author": "/u/C_Thinker", "updated": "2026-05-11T19:26:49+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t9nz8q/started_doing_tiny_it_jobs_for_local_businesses/ol8isgj/", "content": "Tbh I'd charge $100 a month" }, { "id": "t1_ol8iysj", "author": "/u/Squiggums", "updated": "2026-05-11T19:27:38+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t9nz8q/started_doing_tiny_it_jobs_for_local_businesses/ol8iysj/", "content": "Does your job have any non-competes for this sort of thing or conflict of interests?\n As a Network Engineer myself working for a large MSP, this sort of thing with smaller businesses/mom-pop shops is a gray area." }, { "id": "t1_ol9hg8p", "author": "/u/smoovymcgroovy", "updated": "2026-05-11T22:12:03+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t9nz8q/started_doing_tiny_it_jobs_for_local_businesses/ol9hg8p/", "content": "You are an MSP and you aren't charging enough" }, { "id": "t1_olad8y0", "author": "/u/Professir-Paradox", "updated": "2026-05-12T01:13:33+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t9nz8q/started_doing_tiny_it_jobs_for_local_businesses/olad8y0/", "content": "Do you know what passive means?" }, { "id": "t1_olaw1zg", "author": "/u/Radiant_Selection-", "updated": "2026-05-12T03:04:52+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t9nz8q/started_doing_tiny_it_jobs_for_local_businesses/olaw1zg/", "content": "Where do you find small businesses that need the help though?" }, { "id": "t1_olcgxva", "author": "/u/Rhornak", "updated": "2026-05-12T10:37:54+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t9nz8q/started_doing_tiny_it_jobs_for_local_businesses/olcgxva/", "content": "How did you find these first companies and how did you approach them?" }, { "id": "t1_olcmmnd", "author": "/u/JesusAntonioMartinez", "updated": "2026-05-12T11:17:11+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t9nz8q/started_doing_tiny_it_jobs_for_local_businesses/olcmmnd/", "content": "This is such a great idea. I’m a small business owner and I’d be more than happy to pay a monthly fee to have some handle tech issues when they come up.\n I’m a one man show most of the time so while I can noodle out a lot of solutions that time takes away from you know, actually making money to pay the bills." }, { "id": "t1_oldy4op", "author": "/u/purpleskyblues", "updated": "2026-05-12T15:20:43+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t9nz8q/started_doing_tiny_it_jobs_for_local_businesses/oldy4op/", "content": "Hit me up if youre local- im in MD" }, { "id": "t1_ole5zi0", "author": "/u/JesusAntonioMartinez", "updated": "2026-05-12T15:54:59+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t9nz8q/started_doing_tiny_it_jobs_for_local_businesses/ole5zi0/", "content": "Sorry man, I'm in MA. But if you did some marketing you'd have a pretty great business going. Like "quit your day job" kind of business. Pretty much every business owner I know would love something like this." }, { "id": "t1_olklv5m", "author": "/u/InfraScaler", "updated": "2026-05-13T14:18:26+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t9nz8q/started_doing_tiny_it_jobs_for_local_businesses/olklv5m/", "content": "I am pretty that is a well covered business. I mean, where the fuck do you live where you don't have 20 local companies fighting for the same pie? That is more or less how I started my career as I am a drop-out 😄 and one thing that worked for me was partnering with IT-adjacent firms to do for their customers everything they could not." }, { "id": "t1_olku2ar", "author": "", "updated": "2026-05-13T14:56:12+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t9nz8q/started_doing_tiny_it_jobs_for_local_businesses/olku2ar/", "content": "How did you get started? I'd really like to start marketing some similar services to local small businesses, but not sure how to get my foot in the door? Been in the IT field for 10+ years from help desk to senior network/systems engineer." }, { "id": "t1_olkzxzv", "author": "/u/Nothin-on-the-telly", "updated": "2026-05-13T15:22:42+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t9nz8q/started_doing_tiny_it_jobs_for_local_businesses/olkzxzv/", "content": "Jumped on to say it's a great business model - you could go Ltd ! Just, please don't share all your ideas on here, they'll be nicked 🤣" }, { "id": "t1_oll31ml", "author": "/u/Lillytiger456", "updated": "2026-05-13T15:36:19+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t9nz8q/started_doing_tiny_it_jobs_for_local_businesses/oll31ml/", "content": "Can you send me a DM with your company details - this is exactly what I’ve been looking for" }, { "id": "t1_olp1i4z", "author": "/u/InnerspearMusic", "updated": "2026-05-14T03:25:56+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t9nz8q/started_doing_tiny_it_jobs_for_local_businesses/olp1i4z/", "content": "You are absolutely not charging enough, and you should have some kind of liability insurance for sure." }, { "id": "t1_olq0bbl", "author": "/u/zed_the_pirate", "updated": "2026-05-14T08:03:04+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t9nz8q/started_doing_tiny_it_jobs_for_local_businesses/olq0bbl/", "content": "this is my plan too I think lots of recently redundant peeps will be doing anything to get by. will be interesting times indeed. looking forward to reading the whole of this thread" }, { "id": "t1_olrnvka", "author": "/u/spmbx", "updated": "2026-05-14T14:30:40+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t9nz8q/started_doing_tiny_it_jobs_for_local_businesses/olrnvka/", "content": "Sounds great up until something happens (thst might or might not be your fault, but doesn't even matter) and you'll be in an absolute shitshow that'll cost you massive amounts of time" }, { "id": "t1_olujc0p", "author": "/u/jay_0804", "updated": "2026-05-14T22:37:08+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t9nz8q/started_doing_tiny_it_jobs_for_local_businesses/olujc0p/", "content": "This is actually one of the more realistic “passive income” setups I’ve seen posted here.\n You basically productized what you were already doing (random IT fixes) into a recurring service, which is where most people miss the trick. The money isn’t in the one-off jobs, it’s in “we’ll just keep an eye on it for you monthly”.\n I’ve seen similar models with website maintenance, Shopify store checks, even simple CRM cleanup work. Same idea: boring recurring problems = steady income.\n If you wanted to scale this further, the next step would probably be standardizing the checklist + maybe outsourcing the basic checks later so you’re not the bottleneck.\n Also kinda refreshing to see something here that isn’t crypto, dropshipping, or “AI faceless YouTube” for once lol" }, { "id": "t1_olxfc53", "author": "/u/Simonthemoon", "updated": "2026-05-15T11:07:01+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t9nz8q/started_doing_tiny_it_jobs_for_local_businesses/olxfc53/", "content": "My high school buddy started a business like this. Seems doing pretty well. He also does rental services to the same clients. Nowadays laptops and printers are really cheap so it kind of works" }, { "id": "t1_olyteox", "author": "/u/Peaceful2539", "updated": "2026-05-15T15:32:49+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t9nz8q/started_doing_tiny_it_jobs_for_local_businesses/olyteox/", "content": "What a great idea. Good for you!" }, { "id": "t1_om1n0on", "author": "/u/Funny_Bridge1985", "updated": "2026-05-16T00:03:21+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t9nz8q/started_doing_tiny_it_jobs_for_local_businesses/om1n0on/", "content": "Ur hiring mate?" }, { "id": "t1_om1ugc1", "author": "/u/DarlingGazeKate", "updated": "2026-05-16T00:49:35+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t9nz8q/started_doing_tiny_it_jobs_for_local_businesses/om1ugc1/", "content": "How did you go about finding these businesses?" }, { "id": "t1_om3broc", "author": "/u/ForkingMusk", "updated": "2026-05-16T07:19:15+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t9nz8q/started_doing_tiny_it_jobs_for_local_businesses/om3broc/", "content": "Careful on that PCI Compliance liability and where it falls but other than that well done." }, { "id": "t1_om57p43", "author": "/u/germanky", "updated": "2026-05-16T15:16:50+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t9nz8q/started_doing_tiny_it_jobs_for_local_businesses/om57p43/", "content": "I have the same, the key is to answer all their calls right away. Making them feel covered" }, { "id": "t1_om8d5vb", "author": "/u/ProgramNo456", "updated": "2026-05-17T01:37:57+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t9nz8q/started_doing_tiny_it_jobs_for_local_businesses/om8d5vb/", "content": "That's interesting" }, { "id": "t1_om9nvbo", "author": "/u/DearlyHandmade", "updated": "2026-05-17T07:33:51+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t9nz8q/started_doing_tiny_it_jobs_for_local_businesses/om9nvbo/", "content": "You're sitting on a goldmine if you can systematize this, but the real money is getting them on retainers instead of one-off fixes so you're not constantly context-switching during your day job." }, { "id": "t1_omd38b7", "author": "/u/substancesnake2", "updated": "2026-05-17T20:04:16+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t9nz8q/started_doing_tiny_it_jobs_for_local_businesses/omd38b7/", "content": "I started this as well after leaving an MSP to work for a payroll company.\n Unfortunately I decided to stop after my first two clients ghosted when they got the bill." }, { "id": "t1_ome2b3o", "author": "/u/kxsim01", "updated": "2026-05-17T23:19:01+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t9nz8q/started_doing_tiny_it_jobs_for_local_businesses/ome2b3o/", "content": "How did you manage to find these businesses? Presume via cold calling?" }, { "id": "t1_omqzqww", "author": "/u/Sea_sociate", "updated": "2026-05-19T21:28:55+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t9nz8q/started_doing_tiny_it_jobs_for_local_businesses/omqzqww/", "content": "That's actually good. Small businesses may not be able to afford a full time IT guy, so having someone they can turn to when there's small problem is probably a relief" }, { "id": "t1_on2mlce", "author": "/u/ProfessionalUse1995", "updated": "2026-05-21T15:21:38+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t9nz8q/started_doing_tiny_it_jobs_for_local_businesses/on2mlce/", "content": "This is exactly the kind of service most small businesses actually need. Reliable, simple, and affordable beats “enterprise-grade” every time for a lot of them" }, { "id": "t1_onp4dup", "author": "/u/TheGhost_Writer2026", "updated": "2026-05-25T00:11:32+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t9nz8q/started_doing_tiny_it_jobs_for_local_businesses/onp4dup/", "content": "Ok" }, { "id": "t1_onqh3uy", "author": "/u/P16092", "updated": "2026-05-25T05:30:06+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t9nz8q/started_doing_tiny_it_jobs_for_local_businesses/onqh3uy/", "content": "300-500 £ monthly is solid, way better than random call quotes." }, { "id": "t1_ons1oxf", "author": "/u/Conscious_Salad_8865", "updated": "2026-05-25T12:55:20+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t9nz8q/started_doing_tiny_it_jobs_for_local_businesses/ons1oxf/", "content": "This is honestly one of the smartest side-hustle models in IT because you solved a real pain point instead of chasing “startup” ideas. Small businesses rarely need enterprise-level MSP contracts — they just need someone trustworthy who prevents small issues from becoming expensive disasters.\n The recurring revenue part is the key too. Turning random reactive work into predictable monthly maintenance is way more scalable and less stressful than waiting for emergency callouts. You basically productized reliability.\n Also, £40–£75/month feels like an easy yes for most small businesses compared to downtime, lost files, or security problems. Sounds like you found a very solid niche." }, { "id": "t1_onvhihm", "author": "/u/kingkled_0w0", "updated": "2026-05-25T23:14:36+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t9nz8q/started_doing_tiny_it_jobs_for_local_businesses/onvhihm/", "content": "This is honestly the sweet spot for a lot of small businesses they don’t need full IT support, they just need someone consistently keeping the basics from silently breaking, and you’ve basically productized that perfectly into a simple monthly check-in model." }, { "id": "t1_onztect", "author": "/u/Lucky-Soft131", "updated": "2026-05-26T15:59:20+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t9nz8q/started_doing_tiny_it_jobs_for_local_businesses/onztect/", "content": "[ Removed by Reddit ]" }, { "id": "t1_oo7u9u4", "author": "/u/kamra_vanshhh", "updated": "2026-05-27T18:02:05+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t9nz8q/started_doing_tiny_it_jobs_for_local_businesses/oo7u9u4/", "content": "[ Removed by Reddit ]" }, { "id": "t1_ookb0ft", "author": "/u/sam_narulaaa", "updated": "2026-05-29T13:05:26+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t9nz8q/started_doing_tiny_it_jobs_for_local_businesses/ookb0ft/", "content": "This is honestly one of the most realistic “passive income” posts here. You basically found the sweet spot between freelance chaos and full MSP contracts. Small businesses mostly just want someone dependable who notices problems before they become disasters. Also smart move turning random fixes into recurring revenue." }, { "id": "t1_ookx4w3", "author": "/u/DogPrestigious6990", "updated": "2026-05-29T14:49:14+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t9nz8q/started_doing_tiny_it_jobs_for_local_businesses/ookx4w3/", "content": "Being able to do this all remotely is impressive, do you have a background in IT systems? Also, do you do callouts for certain tasks?" }, { "id": "t1_ooxdga3", "author": "/u/AbbreviationsDry7748", "updated": "2026-05-31T11:42:18+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t9nz8q/started_doing_tiny_it_jobs_for_local_businesses/ooxdga3/", "content": "Bin auch ITler, habe genauso gedacht sowas in Berlin MSP zu werden und klein Unternehmen helfen. Nur das Ich weiß es nicht wo soll Man anfangen Kunden zu kriegen. Thoughts? Hilfe?" }, { "id": "t1_op6g4nn", "author": "/u/Forward-Key-9266", "updated": "2026-06-01T19:01:06+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t9nz8q/started_doing_tiny_it_jobs_for_local_businesses/op6g4nn/", "content": "Smart" }, { "id": "t1_ol433xq", "author": "/u/JoyfulCelebration", "updated": "2026-05-11T03:14:12+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t9nz8q/started_doing_tiny_it_jobs_for_local_businesses/ol433xq/", "content": "You work full time? What do you do if you’re clocked in at 9:05am at your main job and suddenly one of these businesses has an urgent “you need to come on site and fix this now”" }, { "id": "t1_ol4skia", "author": "/u/Muted-Alternative648", "updated": "2026-05-11T06:33:42+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t9nz8q/started_doing_tiny_it_jobs_for_local_businesses/ol4skia/", "content": "Idk OPs situation, but I have a remote senior role. Without going in too much detail, I manage people and automate things. I have a generous vacation package and unlimited sick leave.\n I can very easily handle the day to day of my side business. If something absolutely urgent comes us (rare) I can drop everything and call out. Otherwise, it gets handled after I clock out." }, { "id": "t1_olcqbdz", "author": "/u/Whole_Mechanic_8143", "updated": "2026-05-12T11:40:55+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t9nz8q/started_doing_tiny_it_jobs_for_local_businesses/olcqbdz/", "content": "Doesn't sound like that's what they are offering. It sounds more of a "I will run your back ups and download patches periodically" thing with additional services being quoted separately." } ] }, { "source": "r/passive_income top month", "id": "t3_1t8bh3v", "title": "I actually \"made\" $500 solving captchas. Then came the payout day reality check.", "author": "/u/WorkerSome7813", "updated": "2026-05-09T17:37:47+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t8bh3v/i_actually_made_500_solving_captchas_then_came/", "content": "I spent the last 8 days grinding on a captcha-solving site. I treated it like a full-time job, and my dashboard balance finally hit $500. I thought I’d found a legit side hustle.\n The Shock: When I hit "Withdraw," a pop-up appeared: "To release your earnings, pay a $135 subscription fee."\n The Reality Check: This is a classic "Sunk Cost" scam.\n They make you work for free for a week, hoping you'll be so desperate to "save" your 8 days of labor that you’ll actually pay them the $135.\n The Lesson: If a site asks you for money to "unlock" money you’ve already earned, run. I’m out 8 days of work, but I’m glad I didn't lose my actual cash too. Don’t fall for the "pay-to-get-paid" trap. Stay safe.\n submitted by /u/WorkerSome7813\n [link] [comments]", "contentHtml": "

I spent the last 8 days grinding on a captcha-solving site. I treated it like a full-time job, and my dashboard balance finally hit $500. I thought I’d found a legit side hustle.

The Shock: When I hit "Withdraw," a pop-up appeared: "To release your earnings, pay a $135 subscription fee."

The Reality Check: This is a classic "Sunk Cost" scam.

They make you work for free for a week, hoping you'll be so desperate to "save" your 8 days of labor that you’ll actually pay them the $135.

The Lesson: If a site asks you for money to "unlock" money you’ve already earned, run. I’m out 8 days of work, but I’m glad I didn't lose my actual cash too. Don’t fall for the "pay-to-get-paid" trap. Stay safe.

submitted by /u/WorkerSome7813
[link] [comments]", "comments": [ { "id": "t1_okuv2ta", "author": "/u/AutoModerator", "updated": "2026-05-09T17:37:47+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t8bh3v/i_actually_made_500_solving_captchas_then_came/okuv2ta/", "content": "Check out the Community Highlights for current and future Mod Vetted opportunities and Newsletter Episodes.\n Please do due diligence on any crypto opportunity. A simple google search could save you a fortune.\n I am a bot, and this action was performed automatically. Please contact the moderators of this subreddit if you have any questions or concerns." }, { "id": "t1_okuvwtf", "author": "", "updated": "2026-05-09T17:41:57+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t8bh3v/i_actually_made_500_solving_captchas_then_came/okuvwtf/", "content": "[deleted]" }, { "id": "t1_okuwioq", "author": "/u/WorkerSome7813", "updated": "2026-05-09T17:44:59+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t8bh3v/i_actually_made_500_solving_captchas_then_came/okuwioq/", "content": "Spot on. I shared this because the site actually looked legit & several YouTubers even posted "tutorials" and paid ads for it.\n It’s frustrating how that fake social proof makes the scam look real. I just wanted to raise awareness that even if a "guru" promotes it, the "pay-to-get-paid" trap is always a massive red flag.\n Glad I walked away when I did." }, { "id": "t1_okvf7vp", "author": "/u/Eire820", "updated": "2026-05-09T19:21:36+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t8bh3v/i_actually_made_500_solving_captchas_then_came/okvf7vp/", "content": "Who were those Youtubers?" }, { "id": "t1_okvhnby", "author": "/u/SoUpInYa", "updated": "2026-05-09T19:34:51+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t8bh3v/i_actually_made_500_solving_captchas_then_came/okvhnby/", "content": "Spread the reality on their channels" }, { "id": "t1_okzgkn9", "author": "/u/Sir-Ult-Dank", "updated": "2026-05-10T12:24:33+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t8bh3v/i_actually_made_500_solving_captchas_then_came/okzgkn9/", "content": "You don’t see thumbs down on YouTube’s anymore. And they can just delete the comments. It’s going to have to happen from different platforms" }, { "id": "t1_ol0yva7", "author": "/u/-Lige", "updated": "2026-05-10T17:06:13+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t8bh3v/i_actually_made_500_solving_captchas_then_came/ol0yva7/", "content": "There’s extensions and different modded app versions that have thumbs down numbers still available. It relies on opt ins" }, { "id": "t1_ol45dfd", "author": "/u/SmolHornyHobbit", "updated": "2026-05-11T03:30:02+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t8bh3v/i_actually_made_500_solving_captchas_then_came/ol45dfd/", "content": "You're forcing them to take their time to do all of that, and the negative voting impacts their numbers." }, { "id": "t1_olvryhk", "author": "/u/clockworkedpiece", "updated": "2026-05-15T03:04:12+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t8bh3v/i_actually_made_500_solving_captchas_then_came/olvryhk/", "content": "yea but you can report the video as scam or misinformation." }, { "id": "t1_olq68eq", "author": "/u/ai-techguy001", "updated": "2026-05-14T08:55:41+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t8bh3v/i_actually_made_500_solving_captchas_then_came/olq68eq/", "content": "report them on every review site you can find, trustpilot, reddit, wherever." }, { "id": "t1_olwb0zt", "author": "/u/ai-techguy001", "updated": "2026-05-15T05:25:52+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t8bh3v/i_actually_made_500_solving_captchas_then_came/olwb0zt/", "content": "not gonna name them but just search "captcha earning sites" on youtube and you'll find the same recycled videos, they're all affiliate links to these exact scams" }, { "id": "t1_okw8x2l", "author": "/u/Court-day", "updated": "2026-05-09T22:06:07+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t8bh3v/i_actually_made_500_solving_captchas_then_came/okw8x2l/", "content": "You complain but dont ought the people who still scames people?" }, { "id": "t1_okvqg74", "author": "/u/Careless-Gas-7558", "updated": "2026-05-09T20:23:19+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t8bh3v/i_actually_made_500_solving_captchas_then_came/okvqg74/", "content": "Thanks for sharing and letting others know. It is the old adage "If it is too good to be true, it probably is."" }, { "id": "t1_okxhv3i", "author": "/u/methreweway", "updated": "2026-05-10T02:46:47+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t8bh3v/i_actually_made_500_solving_captchas_then_came/okxhv3i/", "content": "Report them to their registrar's. Get there site taken down." }, { "id": "t1_okwp736", "author": "/u/Reighnhart", "updated": "2026-05-09T23:44:37+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t8bh3v/i_actually_made_500_solving_captchas_then_came/okwp736/", "content": "Even a guru?? Arent they equally worse if not more then a YouTube Scammer?" }, { "id": "t1_okx5uxx", "author": "/u/TheOneNeartheTop", "updated": "2026-05-10T01:30:00+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t8bh3v/i_actually_made_500_solving_captchas_then_came/okx5uxx/", "content": "What is the site I like to research these to help other people stay away. Feel free to DM me if it’s not something you want to post ." }, { "id": "t1_ol0zieb", "author": "/u/SmolHornyHobbit", "updated": "2026-05-10T17:09:15+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t8bh3v/i_actually_made_500_solving_captchas_then_came/ol0zieb/", "content": "Name and shame dude, name and shame.\n If those YouTubers are backing this stuff, they are actively participating in the scam themselves." }, { "id": "t1_okzuxju", "author": "/u/khizoa", "updated": "2026-05-10T13:48:20+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t8bh3v/i_actually_made_500_solving_captchas_then_came/okzuxju/", "content": "even if a "guru" promotes it\n That is the red flag" }, { "id": "t1_ol06yhu", "author": "/u/Sweet-Ross860", "updated": "2026-05-10T14:49:51+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t8bh3v/i_actually_made_500_solving_captchas_then_came/ol06yhu/", "content": "Wait how is this not labor theft??" }, { "id": "t1_ol0cpgq", "author": "/u/Captain_Lou_Albano", "updated": "2026-05-10T15:18:15+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t8bh3v/i_actually_made_500_solving_captchas_then_came/ol0cpgq/", "content": "Because there is no employer/employee relationship here." }, { "id": "t1_ol1ej0l", "author": "/u/lunamussel", "updated": "2026-05-10T18:16:55+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t8bh3v/i_actually_made_500_solving_captchas_then_came/ol1ej0l/", "content": "Happy cake day!" }, { "id": "t1_oloe5ia", "author": "/u/VerbumGames", "updated": "2026-05-14T01:10:57+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t8bh3v/i_actually_made_500_solving_captchas_then_came/oloe5ia/", "content": "YouTube never should have hidden the dislike bar 😓" }, { "id": "t1_oltgkt8", "author": "/u/Key-Boat-7519", "updated": "2026-05-14T19:24:33+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t8bh3v/i_actually_made_500_solving_captchas_then_came/oltgkt8/", "content": "I went through something similar with “survey” sites years ago. What helped me was setting one hard rule: if money is supposed to flow to me, I never pay first, not for “verification,” “tax,” or “VIP access.” I also started reverse-searching sites on Reddit and ScamAdviser before signing up. I ended up on Pulse for Reddit after bouncing between InboxDollars and Swagbucks, and it actually caught a few scam threads I would’ve missed, so now I just assume every “too easy” hustle is guilty until proven innocent." }, { "id": "t1_om1tvns", "author": "/u/Right-Somewhere-8343", "updated": "2026-05-16T00:45:59+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t8bh3v/i_actually_made_500_solving_captchas_then_came/om1tvns/", "content": "[ Removed by Reddit ]" }, { "id": "t1_okzkv02", "author": "/u/dystopiam", "updated": "2026-05-10T12:51:21+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t8bh3v/i_actually_made_500_solving_captchas_then_came/okzkv02/", "content": "Well not really he got scammed out of a weeks time lol" }, { "id": "t1_olx282i", "author": "/u/_huppenzuppen", "updated": "2026-05-15T09:24:09+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t8bh3v/i_actually_made_500_solving_captchas_then_came/olx282i/", "content": "Which is worse than $135, could have made almost 600 bucks at minimum wage around here" }, { "id": "t1_okvh7p7", "author": "/u/Stunning-Star5080", "updated": "2026-05-09T19:32:28+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t8bh3v/i_actually_made_500_solving_captchas_then_came/okvh7p7/", "content": "You should reveal the site name so that more people can be saved from such scams" }, { "id": "t1_okvucrl", "author": "/u/iEslam", "updated": "2026-05-09T20:44:36+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t8bh3v/i_actually_made_500_solving_captchas_then_came/okvucrl/", "content": "I agree, you should reveal them, in case they needed protection against DDOS attacks and zero day exploits, maybe they're extractive and exploitative because they feel unsafe, somebody might give them a hand and smack some sense into them." }, { "id": "t1_olcsqzj", "author": "/u/ai-techguy001", "updated": "2026-05-12T11:55:41+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t8bh3v/i_actually_made_500_solving_captchas_then_came/olcsqzj/", "content": "yeah name and shame, no reason to protect them at this point" }, { "id": "t1_ol2vvqe", "author": "/u/WorkerSome7813", "updated": "2026-05-10T22:50:46+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t8bh3v/i_actually_made_500_solving_captchas_then_came/ol2vvqe/", "content": "Choosing not to name it to avoid witch-hunting... But the pay to withdraw pattern is the big red flag. Any site doing this is a scam." }, { "id": "t1_ol3ddre", "author": "/u/ChickenDuckBird", "updated": "2026-05-11T00:35:09+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t8bh3v/i_actually_made_500_solving_captchas_then_came/ol3ddre/", "content": "Just post it? 😂 Who’s gonna witch hunt a site, unless you’re bsing" }, { "id": "t1_olav7r7", "author": "/u/No-March7253", "updated": "2026-05-12T02:59:32+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t8bh3v/i_actually_made_500_solving_captchas_then_came/olav7r7/", "content": "They’re BSing or they’re embarrassed because they used a sketchy site. Reputable “task rabbit”-esque sites will always offer rewards/coupons/cash because it’s highly illegal to have predatory schemes such as this. It is called “wage theft” under Canadian, American, and European law. It applies to sites like these as well even if their ToS treats users like contractors." }, { "id": "t1_ol6m7nh", "author": "/u/Lantana-204", "updated": "2026-05-11T14:16:41+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t8bh3v/i_actually_made_500_solving_captchas_then_came/ol6m7nh/", "content": "Why are you defending scammers" }, { "id": "t1_ol5tja9", "author": "/u/RomanticPanic", "updated": "2026-05-11T11:40:42+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t8bh3v/i_actually_made_500_solving_captchas_then_came/ol5tja9/", "content": "Bro witch hunting scammers is ok" }, { "id": "t1_ol6j1n5", "author": "/u/malfoid_user_input", "updated": "2026-05-11T14:01:35+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t8bh3v/i_actually_made_500_solving_captchas_then_came/ol6j1n5/", "content": "Calling bs" }, { "id": "t1_olc7x8q", "author": "/u/DubiousDodo", "updated": "2026-05-12T09:25:04+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t8bh3v/i_actually_made_500_solving_captchas_then_came/olc7x8q/", "content": "It feels like he just asked an llm to pretend it got scammed by a captcha site, I don't understand his angle though what could be gained from that?\n but like the whole post is so vague and a bunch of nothing, the only actual useful thing could've been sharing the name but he won't even do that so the only point he made is don't fall for obvious scams (with no indication of how to avoid them) I don't get this post at all" }, { "id": "t1_olju5g4", "author": "/u/thereisnospoon-1312", "updated": "2026-05-13T11:54:29+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t8bh3v/i_actually_made_500_solving_captchas_then_came/olju5g4/", "content": "Yeah, you are full of shit. You want to raise awareness about this, but don’t want to name the site to keep people from investing a week or more of their full time labor to a scam?\n Bullshit" }, { "id": "t1_okvie8g", "author": "/u/StarStruckSocks", "updated": "2026-05-09T19:38:57+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t8bh3v/i_actually_made_500_solving_captchas_then_came/okvie8g/", "content": "Make sure to post this on r/scams to spread the word! We can never be too careful nowadays" }, { "id": "t1_ol2voyu", "author": "/u/WorkerSome7813", "updated": "2026-05-10T22:49:38+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t8bh3v/i_actually_made_500_solving_captchas_then_came/ol2voyu/", "content": "Great idea. I will cross post to r/scams ." }, { "id": "t1_olu0ql6", "author": "/u/Princess-Charlotte", "updated": "2026-05-14T21:00:33+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t8bh3v/i_actually_made_500_solving_captchas_then_came/olu0ql6/", "content": "You should include the name of the site that scammed you, to warn others" }, { "id": "t1_okvbxvr", "author": "/u/magichronx", "updated": "2026-05-09T19:04:13+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t8bh3v/i_actually_made_500_solving_captchas_then_came/okvbxvr/", "content": "In what world is 8 days of grinding considered "passive income"??" }, { "id": "t1_okw378w", "author": "/u/stxrfox1k", "updated": "2026-05-09T21:33:30+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t8bh3v/i_actually_made_500_solving_captchas_then_came/okw378w/", "content": "especially for only $500. and after paying the $135 “unlock fee” to get paid, that’s only $365 pre tax. “8 days of grinding” for $45 a day. again, pre tax. mf could’ve panhandled for more money and less effort, and that’s tax-free cash 😭😭" }, { "id": "t1_okwgyfx", "author": "/u/Lady-Cane", "updated": "2026-05-09T22:54:19+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t8bh3v/i_actually_made_500_solving_captchas_then_came/okwgyfx/", "content": "Is panhandling the ultimate passive income? /s" }, { "id": "t1_okzv3ev", "author": "/u/khizoa", "updated": "2026-05-10T13:49:12+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t8bh3v/i_actually_made_500_solving_captchas_then_came/okzv3ev/", "content": "🤔🤔🤔" }, { "id": "t1_olhtf1y", "author": "/u/heyfriendapp", "updated": "2026-05-13T02:41:29+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t8bh3v/i_actually_made_500_solving_captchas_then_came/olhtf1y/", "content": "Panhandling isn’t passive. Passive income is sitting on your couch binge watching tv or swimming or literally doing anything as money rolls into your bank account. Standing on the side of the road asking for scraps is work, just like grinding on the site OP is calling out." }, { "id": "t1_okwrb3q", "author": "/u/Nikto_90", "updated": "2026-05-09T23:57:45+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t8bh3v/i_actually_made_500_solving_captchas_then_came/okwrb3q/", "content": "Really depends on where OP is. 45/day in some places is a good living" }, { "id": "t1_okxboko", "author": "/u/stxrfox1k", "updated": "2026-05-10T02:07:03+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t8bh3v/i_actually_made_500_solving_captchas_then_came/okxboko/", "content": "i’m assuming OP is US based. absolutely nowhere in the United States is $45/day a good living, i don’t care what part of the country you’re in" }, { "id": "t1_okxnxgt", "author": "/u/sharkbait-oo-haha", "updated": "2026-05-10T03:28:04+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t8bh3v/i_actually_made_500_solving_captchas_then_came/okxnxgt/", "content": "Depends on what OP defines as "grinding" 4-8 hours a day? Terrible! 30 minutes a day? Pretty sweet! Need more information.\n Still not passive though, but irrelevant given its a scam." }, { "id": "t1_olafgcw", "author": "/u/Syphox", "updated": "2026-05-12T01:26:21+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t8bh3v/i_actually_made_500_solving_captchas_then_came/olafgcw/", "content": "Depends on what OP defines as “grinding”\n idk he kind said it in the post if you read it\n I treated it like a full-time job." }, { "id": "t1_okyq87r", "author": "/u/Nikto_90", "updated": "2026-05-10T08:47:52+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t8bh3v/i_actually_made_500_solving_captchas_then_came/okyq87r/", "content": "OP is India based where 45/day ain’t all that bad" }, { "id": "t1_ol2pfh1", "author": "/u/Creepy-Selection2423", "updated": "2026-05-10T22:12:26+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t8bh3v/i_actually_made_500_solving_captchas_then_came/ol2pfh1/", "content": "It's worse than that. 99.9% chance the payout is not real at all. They're just trying to scam you out of $135." }, { "id": "t1_om3930y", "author": "/u/ai-techguy001", "updated": "2026-05-16T06:55:41+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t8bh3v/i_actually_made_500_solving_captchas_then_came/om3930y/", "content": "lmaooo the panhandling comparison is sending me 💀" }, { "id": "t1_okwafms", "author": "/u/Lady-Cane", "updated": "2026-05-09T22:15:04+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t8bh3v/i_actually_made_500_solving_captchas_then_came/okwafms/", "content": "I really think ppl don’t know what the word “passive” means. Like if they grinded then the captchas in the future earns income… then sure. But not 1:1 grind to payout. I don’t know what sub this post should go, but it ain’t here." }, { "id": "t1_okwfjrp", "author": "/u/Agitated-Impress7805", "updated": "2026-05-09T22:45:45+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t8bh3v/i_actually_made_500_solving_captchas_then_came/okwfjrp/", "content": "I think half the people here think passive income means "job you can do from home and don't have to talk to humans."" }, { "id": "t1_okwgqo2", "author": "/u/Lady-Cane", "updated": "2026-05-09T22:53:03+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t8bh3v/i_actually_made_500_solving_captchas_then_came/okwgqo2/", "content": "Haha. I think you’re right. But you’re generous at half here not knowing. I think it’s more like 75% based on the responses." }, { "id": "t1_okx1jb9", "author": "/u/ortiga-tea", "updated": "2026-05-10T01:02:38+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t8bh3v/i_actually_made_500_solving_captchas_then_came/okx1jb9/", "content": "R/sidehustle would be the place." }, { "id": "t1_olpne7y", "author": "/u/XBlackSunshineX", "updated": "2026-05-14T06:11:01+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t8bh3v/i_actually_made_500_solving_captchas_then_came/olpne7y/", "content": "I would first ask my self what is the monetary value of solving a captcha. and why would anyone want to pay me for doing such a stupid thing. Then id figure out a better way to get money." }, { "id": "t1_okw8xvz", "author": "/u/reditanian", "updated": "2026-05-09T22:06:15+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t8bh3v/i_actually_made_500_solving_captchas_then_came/okw8xvz/", "content": "You must be new here." }, { "id": "t1_ol2r1en", "author": "/u/YerMumsPantyCrust", "updated": "2026-05-10T22:21:50+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t8bh3v/i_actually_made_500_solving_captchas_then_came/ol2r1en/", "content": "No one here has understood what “passive” means in a long time." }, { "id": "t1_ol2w21h", "author": "/u/WorkerSome7813", "updated": "2026-05-10T22:51:49+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t8bh3v/i_actually_made_500_solving_captchas_then_came/ol2w21h/", "content": "You are absolutely right buddy. It's the opposite. They call it passive to hook people looking for easy money. The reality is 8 days of work for below minimum pay." }, { "id": "t1_ol5qhz4", "author": "/u/West_Astronaut5088", "updated": "2026-05-11T11:20:28+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t8bh3v/i_actually_made_500_solving_captchas_then_came/ol5qhz4/", "content": "Passive for the owner of the site 🤣" }, { "id": "t1_okux1kk", "author": "/u/healthierlurker", "updated": "2026-05-09T17:47:35+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t8bh3v/i_actually_made_500_solving_captchas_then_came/okux1kk/", "content": "If you had a regular job at like McDonald’s and worked just as much you would’ve made more." }, { "id": "t1_okuxg2n", "author": "/u/WorkerSome7813", "updated": "2026-05-09T17:49:31+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t8bh3v/i_actually_made_500_solving_captchas_then_came/okuxg2n/", "content": "You’re 100% right. It was a huge lesson learned definitely not worth the time even if it had paid out." }, { "id": "t1_okv938d", "author": "/u/Quarter_Shot", "updated": "2026-05-09T18:49:13+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t8bh3v/i_actually_made_500_solving_captchas_then_came/okv938d/", "content": "When I was in my third trimester trying to find gigs from my couch, I ran into a few scammy looking things like this.\n Important to consider that not everyone is capable of just going and getting a regular job like McDonald's" }, { "id": "t1_okvedsn", "author": "/u/1of3musketeers", "updated": "2026-05-09T19:17:09+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t8bh3v/i_actually_made_500_solving_captchas_then_came/okvedsn/", "content": "Thank you for posting. We NEVER know another persons challenges. The OP was doing something kind and posting a lesson that they learned that could have really gone south. I applaud OP for sharing their story to help others. I still do surveys at night to try and supplement my income. I also do other “jobs”. There’s no shame in anyone’s game trying to make money. Thank you OP for posting the warning for others to see and be aware of." }, { "id": "t1_okv2ccm", "author": "/u/Fazioli31", "updated": "2026-05-09T18:14:08+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t8bh3v/i_actually_made_500_solving_captchas_then_came/okv2ccm/", "content": "This is the lesson people don't want to admit." }, { "id": "t1_okv2xtr", "author": "/u/Klutzy-Comment6897", "updated": "2026-05-09T18:17:11+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t8bh3v/i_actually_made_500_solving_captchas_then_came/okv2xtr/", "content": "Yep. Sadly some people will jump through the craziest hoops just to not resort to something they feel is beneath them." }, { "id": "t1_okvco9k", "author": "/u/Such_Reference_8186", "updated": "2026-05-09T19:08:03+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t8bh3v/i_actually_made_500_solving_captchas_then_came/okvco9k/", "content": "That old saying still applies. No job is beneath you when you don't have one." }, { "id": "t1_okveejb", "author": "/u/Klutzy-Comment6897", "updated": "2026-05-09T19:17:15+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t8bh3v/i_actually_made_500_solving_captchas_then_came/okveejb/", "content": "💯" }, { "id": "t1_okv3ch1", "author": "/u/healthierlurker", "updated": "2026-05-09T18:19:15+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t8bh3v/i_actually_made_500_solving_captchas_then_came/okv3ch1/", "content": "It’s because many people are looking for the easy way out but their laziness fails them. You’re much better off going to college and studying something useful, and then maybe going to grad school. I’m a lawyer and make more than $1k per day working 9-5. For passive income I plan to invest in real estate and keep buying stocks, successful people aren’t “solving captchas” with their time." }, { "id": "t1_okvaw47", "author": "/u/NoEstablishment1221", "updated": "2026-05-09T18:58:41+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t8bh3v/i_actually_made_500_solving_captchas_then_came/okvaw47/", "content": "Pretty atypical for a lawyer, plus undergrad and law school can be a quarter million easy. Happy it worked for you but not really apples to apples." }, { "id": "t1_okv44ld", "author": "/u/Fazioli31", "updated": "2026-05-09T18:23:12+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t8bh3v/i_actually_made_500_solving_captchas_then_came/okv44ld/", "content": "Man, 1k day, you're doing great. The main thing is that people think the internet is a place where you can get started quickly and without any skills. But the reality is that the internet has significant leverage potential; however, the best approach is to use the money you earn from your day job to think long-term." }, { "id": "t1_okvnp71", "author": "/u/UnagiBro", "updated": "2026-05-09T20:08:13+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t8bh3v/i_actually_made_500_solving_captchas_then_came/okvnp71/", "content": "I mean if you are a girl with big bazoogas all you need to to find simps on the numerous reddit subs" }, { "id": "t1_okzg445", "author": "/u/Unique_Driver4434", "updated": "2026-05-10T12:21:31+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t8bh3v/i_actually_made_500_solving_captchas_then_came/okzg445/", "content": "I moved to Thailand taking surveys on MTURK making a fraction of what I made in the states in fast food in 2018. Lived in some of the most beautiful beach towns, mountain towns, could change towns or hotels whenever I wanted.\n Was great while it lasted (then wrote articles for websites, but that actually paid really well until AI came along.)\n Sometimes it isnt just about pay but freedom. If it turned out to actually be real, that'd be better than McDonalds for many even if lower pay." }, { "id": "t1_okv6vg0", "author": "/u/ParislvBlue", "updated": "2026-05-09T18:37:35+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t8bh3v/i_actually_made_500_solving_captchas_then_came/okv6vg0/", "content": "sh!t. That sucks! I’m sorry and thanks for sharing!" }, { "id": "t1_okwr9iw", "author": "/u/Hour_File416", "updated": "2026-05-09T23:57:28+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t8bh3v/i_actually_made_500_solving_captchas_then_came/okwr9iw/", "content": "Name and shame please. That will be the biggest help I would think" }, { "id": "t1_olr14tm", "author": "/u/Sydney_girl_45", "updated": "2026-05-14T12:35:48+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t8bh3v/i_actually_made_500_solving_captchas_then_came/olr14tm/", "content": "yeah naming the site would probably save more people than anything else here. scams like this survive because people quietly move on after getting burned" }, { "id": "t1_okv92a0", "author": "/u/tacotimes01", "updated": "2026-05-09T18:49:05+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t8bh3v/i_actually_made_500_solving_captchas_then_came/okv92a0/", "content": "$7.81 an hour for 8 full days of work before the subscription cost does not sound like good passive income to me. I’d rather stand behind a counter and welcome people to Waffle House in deep rural Mississippi where a wage like that may still be reality." }, { "id": "t1_okvcuz5", "author": "/u/cnavla", "updated": "2026-05-09T19:09:02+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t8bh3v/i_actually_made_500_solving_captchas_then_came/okvcuz5/", "content": "Neither is passive in any meaningful way 😄" }, { "id": "t1_okvijvl", "author": "/u/Leviathon713", "updated": "2026-05-09T19:39:49+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t8bh3v/i_actually_made_500_solving_captchas_then_came/okvijvl/", "content": "That wage is a reality here in SC. It's crazy. I know that wasn't the point of this, but still." }, { "id": "t1_ol2xecb", "author": "/u/WorkerSome7813", "updated": "2026-05-10T22:59:48+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t8bh3v/i_actually_made_500_solving_captchas_then_came/ol2xecb/", "content": "Loll, same. At least at waffle house you actually get paid." }, { "id": "t1_okvr6i3", "author": "/u/theBowa", "updated": "2026-05-09T20:27:19+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t8bh3v/i_actually_made_500_solving_captchas_then_came/okvr6i3/", "content": "I had a strange one a while ago while I was between jobs, Some hotel review website, had to answer a few questions, actually got £50 from them which shocked me, but then came the reality. To get more review work, pay £80 today. Easiest £50 I ever earnt to be fair" }, { "id": "t1_okvbf8a", "author": "/u/VetsyApp", "updated": "2026-05-09T19:01:29+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t8bh3v/i_actually_made_500_solving_captchas_then_came/okvbf8a/", "content": "8 days of grinding captchas to learn that lesson is rough but at least you didn’t pay the 135$ Some people do. The whole model is designed around making you feel like you’ve already invested too much to walk away." }, { "id": "t1_ol2w8gu", "author": "/u/WorkerSome7813", "updated": "2026-05-10T22:52:53+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t8bh3v/i_actually_made_500_solving_captchas_then_came/ol2w8gu/", "content": "The 8 days hurts more than the $135. The time that I will never get back." }, { "id": "t1_ol4hexz", "author": "/u/VetsyApp", "updated": "2026-05-11T05:00:24+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t8bh3v/i_actually_made_500_solving_captchas_then_came/ol4hexz/", "content": "Yeah time is the real cost. At least now you know the playbook and won’t fall for it again." }, { "id": "t1_okwapff", "author": "/u/56willbilly", "updated": "2026-05-09T22:16:42+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t8bh3v/i_actually_made_500_solving_captchas_then_came/okwapff/", "content": "Grinding everyday 8 days straight for $500 is not passive income…" }, { "id": "t1_okv968g", "author": "/u/Abject_Flower_9139", "updated": "2026-05-09T18:49:39+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t8bh3v/i_actually_made_500_solving_captchas_then_came/okv968g/", "content": "Thanks for heads up sorry about the site being dishonest bro." }, { "id": "t1_okw55c3", "author": "/u/DianaKLaRose", "updated": "2026-05-09T21:44:33+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t8bh3v/i_actually_made_500_solving_captchas_then_came/okw55c3/", "content": "Not only am I a natural skeptic, I also worked in the Internet security field for several years. Ya can't trick me, right? But scams can be so clever these days that anyone can fall for them. I almost did recently." }, { "id": "t1_ol2akd1", "author": "/u/tbombs23", "updated": "2026-05-10T20:53:15+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t8bh3v/i_actually_made_500_solving_captchas_then_came/ol2akd1/", "content": "Yup, best thing I learned was that no one is immune to propaganda and anyone can get scammed." }, { "id": "t1_okzz34u", "author": "/u/Ancient_Worm", "updated": "2026-05-10T14:10:06+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t8bh3v/i_actually_made_500_solving_captchas_then_came/okzz34u/", "content": "Isn’t this the literal opposite of passive income?" }, { "id": "t1_okxqg6t", "author": "/u/Decidely_Me", "updated": "2026-05-10T03:45:54+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t8bh3v/i_actually_made_500_solving_captchas_then_came/okxqg6t/", "content": "Sadly, my wife fell for something like this, and we lost somewhere in the neighborhood of $1,500.\n I'd love to meet the people behind these scams." }, { "id": "t1_ol2we8s", "author": "/u/WorkerSome7813", "updated": "2026-05-10T22:53:50+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t8bh3v/i_actually_made_500_solving_captchas_then_came/ol2we8s/", "content": "I am really sorry to hear that. That's a much bigger hit. These scams target people who are already streched thin." }, { "id": "t1_okvlfa0", "author": "/u/TheLevelWay", "updated": "2026-05-09T19:55:39+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t8bh3v/i_actually_made_500_solving_captchas_then_came/okvlfa0/", "content": "I would be raging. Well done on keeping your composure." }, { "id": "t1_okw4k05", "author": "/u/breezeturtle", "updated": "2026-05-09T21:41:11+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t8bh3v/i_actually_made_500_solving_captchas_then_came/okw4k05/", "content": "Thanks for sharing. Also shout them out on the r/scams subreddit. They don't deserve anonymity." }, { "id": "t1_okxuduc", "author": "/u/DucinOff", "updated": "2026-05-10T04:13:24+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t8bh3v/i_actually_made_500_solving_captchas_then_came/okxuduc/", "content": "I really enjoyed the "Elon Musk gives whoever visits this website and makes an account $14k in Bitcoin, but you can't send it to a different wallet address until you send $400 in Bitcoin to prove you know how to work a Bitcoin wallet"" }, { "id": "t1_okzeklb", "author": "/u/AdInternational8860", "updated": "2026-05-10T12:11:23+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t8bh3v/i_actually_made_500_solving_captchas_then_came/okzeklb/", "content": "My guess is you’re solving captchas so bots can bypass them for nefarious reasons." }, { "id": "t1_olcbsn1", "author": "/u/BlakeSA", "updated": "2026-05-12T09:57:47+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t8bh3v/i_actually_made_500_solving_captchas_then_came/olcbsn1/", "content": "Exactly this. Got scammed by the scammers he was helping to scam others." }, { "id": "t1_okzpgyj", "author": "/u/DecentFeedback2", "updated": "2026-05-10T13:18:01+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t8bh3v/i_actually_made_500_solving_captchas_then_came/okzpgyj/", "content": "Ad placement on point today\n https://preview.redd.it/7wdz96rz8b0h1.jpeg?width=1080&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=16a808134574e4c8672ef18a6e2081dddbf0d3c7" }, { "id": "t1_okuwmhq", "author": "", "updated": "2026-05-09T17:45:30+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t8bh3v/i_actually_made_500_solving_captchas_then_came/okuwmhq/", "content": "[deleted]" }, { "id": "t1_okux28w", "author": "/u/WorkerSome7813", "updated": "2026-05-09T17:47:41+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t8bh3v/i_actually_made_500_solving_captchas_then_came/okux28w/", "content": "Thanks for the tip! Right now I'm just focusing on sharing this warning so others don't lose their time like I did." }, { "id": "t1_okv3qhd", "author": "/u/mullingthingsover", "updated": "2026-05-09T18:21:13+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t8bh3v/i_actually_made_500_solving_captchas_then_came/okv3qhd/", "content": "This guy posts this same shit on every passive_income post. Ignore it." }, { "id": "t1_okv5ooj", "author": "/u/CartoonistLarge5904", "updated": "2026-05-09T18:31:16+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t8bh3v/i_actually_made_500_solving_captchas_then_came/okv5ooj/", "content": "He is spreading the message, one ''passive income post'' at a time. Be grateful or stfu" }, { "id": "t1_okv6aj6", "author": "/u/mullingthingsover", "updated": "2026-05-09T18:34:28+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t8bh3v/i_actually_made_500_solving_captchas_then_came/okv6aj6/", "content": "No. It isn’t applicable for every post and is honestly rude to the original posters. He shoehorns it in on posts that have nothing at all to do with what he is trying to sell. I certainly won’t be grateful nor will I stfu about it." }, { "id": "t1_okvleg2", "author": "/u/1214", "updated": "2026-05-09T19:55:32+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t8bh3v/i_actually_made_500_solving_captchas_then_came/okvleg2/", "content": "What's the website?" }, { "id": "t1_ol2wq6a", "author": "/u/WorkerSome7813", "updated": "2026-05-10T22:55:49+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t8bh3v/i_actually_made_500_solving_captchas_then_came/ol2wq6a/", "content": "Not naming it, because I am not promoting it i am sharing what process i faced & felt like i was scammed with ny time. But you can search 'captcha solving work from home' any site asking for money to withdraw is the same scam." }, { "id": "t1_ol8h067", "author": "/u/ICanOnlyGrowCacti", "updated": "2026-05-11T19:18:35+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t8bh3v/i_actually_made_500_solving_captchas_then_came/ol8h067/", "content": "But you did 8 days of work before you found out they wanted your money or I assume you wouldn't have done it?" }, { "id": "t1_olc7hcy", "author": "/u/DubiousDodo", "updated": "2026-05-12T09:21:12+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t8bh3v/i_actually_made_500_solving_captchas_then_came/olc7hcy/", "content": "I can't even tell if you got actually scammed your post is such garbage nothing that doesn't go anywhere and that has no takeaways.. like it sounds like you just asked an llm to pretend it got scammed because it's so fucking vague.\n No site name so it's not a warning to help others, the only takeway is "someone asking to pay for a withdrawal is a scam" if you actually need that advice you have brain damage" }, { "id": "t1_okw3xlc", "author": "/u/educationalstab", "updated": "2026-05-09T21:37:39+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t8bh3v/i_actually_made_500_solving_captchas_then_came/okw3xlc/", "content": "yea i found one like this when i was like 12 some time ago, the tile of the website refreshes so you can't really look it up but its basically solving captchas for a couple cents and the minimum to cash out is like $20 but then they make you pay to take out the money" }, { "id": "t1_okw42sm", "author": "/u/educationalstab", "updated": "2026-05-09T21:38:29+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t8bh3v/i_actually_made_500_solving_captchas_then_came/okw42sm/", "content": "i don't remember what it was called because it legitimately changes the url title everytime you refresh or link it from somewhere else" }, { "id": "t1_oky60f2", "author": "/u/Stormbaxx", "updated": "2026-05-10T05:43:55+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t8bh3v/i_actually_made_500_solving_captchas_then_came/oky60f2/", "content": "Lmao. I mean in what reality would that not be shady." }, { "id": "t1_okzoc5g", "author": "/u/Unique_Importance910", "updated": "2026-05-10T13:11:35+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t8bh3v/i_actually_made_500_solving_captchas_then_came/okzoc5g/", "content": "I stopped trusting those kinds of gigs long ago, including the get paid to play games ones. They either drain all your time and energy and then beat around paying out the few pennies you have made or they are scams..." }, { "id": "t1_ol1af0j", "author": "/u/bill-lowney", "updated": "2026-05-10T17:58:04+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t8bh3v/i_actually_made_500_solving_captchas_then_came/ol1af0j/", "content": "Curious how often is that $135 fee is charged? Weekly? Monthly? Yearly?" }, { "id": "t1_okvi6h7", "author": "/u/Puzzleheaded_Ad_4478", "updated": "2026-05-09T19:37:46+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t8bh3v/i_actually_made_500_solving_captchas_then_came/okvi6h7/", "content": "Thanks for sharing this." }, { "id": "t1_okvll9g", "author": "/u/MichaelDaza", "updated": "2026-05-09T19:56:34+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t8bh3v/i_actually_made_500_solving_captchas_then_came/okvll9g/", "content": "Just learn how to do it with ai. You could automate the process" }, { "id": "t1_okvucsk", "author": "/u/oldmanelements", "updated": "2026-05-09T20:44:36+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t8bh3v/i_actually_made_500_solving_captchas_then_came/okvucsk/", "content": "The whole point of having to have people solve captcha is that the computer can’t do it… smh" }, { "id": "t1_okvxk1h", "author": "/u/MichaelDaza", "updated": "2026-05-09T21:02:18+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t8bh3v/i_actually_made_500_solving_captchas_then_came/okvxk1h/", "content": "Recaptcha services all over the place using ai, doing it yourself isnt passive income" }, { "id": "t1_okx62bz", "author": "/u/Puzzleheaded_Cable_9", "updated": "2026-05-10T01:31:17+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t8bh3v/i_actually_made_500_solving_captchas_then_came/okx62bz/", "content": "AI can definitely solve many CAPTCHAs and really well, too. You just need to know the tools that can do it." }, { "id": "t1_okvtpjh", "author": "/u/authenticinoctober", "updated": "2026-05-09T20:41:05+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t8bh3v/i_actually_made_500_solving_captchas_then_came/okvtpjh/", "content": "I’m so glad you didn’t lose your actual cash too!" }, { "id": "t1_okx7wsx", "author": "/u/Asheraddo", "updated": "2026-05-10T01:42:57+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t8bh3v/i_actually_made_500_solving_captchas_then_came/okx7wsx/", "content": "AI slop post? What’s the site and who were the youtubers promoting it? Sus af." }, { "id": "t1_okxwbfi", "author": "/u/peripateticman2026", "updated": "2026-05-10T04:27:49+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t8bh3v/i_actually_made_500_solving_captchas_then_came/okxwbfi/", "content": "Name and shame." }, { "id": "t1_okz9wx2", "author": "/u/VastJuice2949", "updated": "2026-05-10T11:39:10+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t8bh3v/i_actually_made_500_solving_captchas_then_came/okz9wx2/", "content": "Why is this in the "passive income" sub?" }, { "id": "t1_okzcabw", "author": "/u/linux_n00by", "updated": "2026-05-10T11:55:56+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t8bh3v/i_actually_made_500_solving_captchas_then_came/okzcabw/", "content": "this is more like r/beermoney topic lol" }, { "id": "t1_okzc7ll", "author": "/u/Unique_Driver4434", "updated": "2026-05-10T11:55:26+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t8bh3v/i_actually_made_500_solving_captchas_then_came/okzc7ll/", "content": "Report them to the FBI's internet crime complaint center here . They're probably based in some other country and can simply change hosts if their host shuts them down, but it's better than doing nothing if they are touchable.\n Agree with the person who said report them to the registrar, as well as their host. You can find out where the domain is registered here , as well as their host. If they're really dumb and forgot to make their personal information private, you might even see their name and address. Sorry that happened." }, { "id": "t1_ol1vy1a", "author": "/u/SneezlesForNeezles", "updated": "2026-05-10T19:41:07+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t8bh3v/i_actually_made_500_solving_captchas_then_came/ol1vy1a/", "content": "I have actually made £70 on Freecash in a month. 5% transaction fee taken from the earnings rather than you paying them. You can negate that by not doing Paypal/Visa.\n I haven't been treating it as a full time job by any stretch.\n I had Testerup before and made £150 in about 18 months. They then dropped the incentives and I shifted. They no longer show the incentives before you download the game and that's a hell no from me as I can't comparison check it.\n Essentially, if you want beer money - try Freecash. The surveys are shit but the game rewards can be decent pocket money even without full time hours." }, { "id": "t1_olx5m0v", "author": "/u/Bre603", "updated": "2026-05-15T09:53:31+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t8bh3v/i_actually_made_500_solving_captchas_then_came/olx5m0v/", "content": "I second this. I’ve made like $300 so far on Freecash. That’s almost all from just one game that I happened to be able to really lock in on and complete the time limited challenges. With that game I still have a couple hundred I can earn. I was skeptical at first, but once my first cashout actually hit my PayPal, I was pretty happy." }, { "id": "t1_olxg571", "author": "/u/SneezlesForNeezles", "updated": "2026-05-15T11:12:34+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t8bh3v/i_actually_made_500_solving_captchas_then_came/olxg571/", "content": "I could easily have made more but use it as a pocket money site not a 'I'm going to plough ungodly hours and neglect all my other hobbies' site, as it just pays for my Steam gaming obsession. If someone like OP was putting full time hours in, they could easily triple that I suspect.\n I've got two games going at present, one energy limited and one life limited but time consuming as hell. Im determined to at least make a tenner on the time consuming one, the energy one got me most of the cash so far." }, { "id": "t1_okxr7bv", "author": "/u/apsolutnul", "updated": "2026-05-10T03:50:54+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t8bh3v/i_actually_made_500_solving_captchas_then_came/okxr7bv/", "content": "That would be great money in some countries, so even with the fee, you could live like a king, I guess depends on where this site is all available to get a payout in?" }, { "id": "t1_oky2ihw", "author": "/u/Calvillofit", "updated": "2026-05-10T05:14:33+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t8bh3v/i_actually_made_500_solving_captchas_then_came/oky2ihw/", "content": "It’s a scam and they steal your money." }, { "id": "t1_ol0wsqa", "author": "/u/shootingstar_9324", "updated": "2026-05-10T16:56:24+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t8bh3v/i_actually_made_500_solving_captchas_then_came/ol0wsqa/", "content": "You obviously don’t understand that there is “no money”.\n Once you pay them they have your payment information. They use YOUR money or credit card to buy things.\n You’ll NEVER get paid. 🤦‍♀️" }, { "id": "t1_okzd0z7", "author": "/u/HOrnery_Occasion", "updated": "2026-05-10T12:00:57+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t8bh3v/i_actually_made_500_solving_captchas_then_came/okzd0z7/", "content": "Id rather pan handle lol" }, { "id": "t1_okzwqqq", "author": "/u/RaitisP77", "updated": "2026-05-10T13:57:59+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t8bh3v/i_actually_made_500_solving_captchas_then_came/okzwqqq/", "content": "500$ a week from captchas is already a red flag." }, { "id": "t1_ol0757k", "author": "/u/ihs64", "updated": "2026-05-10T14:50:47+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t8bh3v/i_actually_made_500_solving_captchas_then_came/ol0757k/", "content": "Thank you very much." }, { "id": "t1_ol1mbh3", "author": "/u/Olivismify", "updated": "2026-05-10T18:54:35+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t8bh3v/i_actually_made_500_solving_captchas_then_came/ol1mbh3/", "content": "It’s called task scam." }, { "id": "t1_ol1p9gl", "author": "/u/thebadfem", "updated": "2026-05-10T19:08:54+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t8bh3v/i_actually_made_500_solving_captchas_then_came/ol1p9gl/", "content": "Im confused why would anyone pay someone to solve a captcha?" }, { "id": "t1_oliygkp", "author": "/u/KWRecovers", "updated": "2026-05-13T07:48:31+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t8bh3v/i_actually_made_500_solving_captchas_then_came/oliygkp/", "content": "Those "anyones" are AI agents or people programming AI agents to pass captchas.catches. Or perhaps just massive hacker farms. Even if the site did pay out, I can't imagine the end "why" would be anything other than furthering a bad actor's aims." }, { "id": "t1_om648gz", "author": "/u/Temporary_Branch_124", "updated": "2026-05-16T17:58:54+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t8bh3v/i_actually_made_500_solving_captchas_then_came/om648gz/", "content": ""AI, could you set me up a [social media site] account under my name, with these pictures?"\n "AI, please buy X product and deliver it to my apartment."\n These are two possible legitimate scenarios where an AI might need to solve captchas. Likely the minority of requests, but still, possibilities. O wouldn't do either one, I don't trust AI, and would rather research products myself, set up my own accounts. But there are people 🫠" }, { "id": "t1_ol2s13z", "author": "/u/MisterSandKing", "updated": "2026-05-10T22:27:42+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t8bh3v/i_actually_made_500_solving_captchas_then_came/ol2s13z/", "content": "It wasn’t something that could just be subtracted from the amount you earned? Like they wanted you to use your debit card, or something before they let you have your money?" }, { "id": "t1_ol38csb", "author": "/u/Low-Employment1905", "updated": "2026-05-11T00:05:10+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t8bh3v/i_actually_made_500_solving_captchas_then_came/ol38csb/", "content": "Yep. Anything that asks for money upfront just to be able to get your earnings is pure scam" }, { "id": "t1_ol3a4mt", "author": "/u/Own-Wrongdoer-3618", "updated": "2026-05-11T00:16:02+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t8bh3v/i_actually_made_500_solving_captchas_then_came/ol3a4mt/", "content": "Solving captchas isn't work" }, { "id": "t1_ol6x0u2", "author": "/u/Praebltch", "updated": "2026-05-11T15:07:03+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t8bh3v/i_actually_made_500_solving_captchas_then_came/ol6x0u2/", "content": "I'm doing a exclusive promotion. Where if you send me any amount of Bitcoin, I'll send you double back. It also works with dollars, euros, British pounds, gold, silver or anything you want!\n All you have to do is send me any amount, and I'll send you double back!\n Trust me bro, it's guaranteed!" }, { "id": "t1_olheaii", "author": "/u/notanyone69", "updated": "2026-05-13T01:15:42+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t8bh3v/i_actually_made_500_solving_captchas_then_came/olheaii/", "content": "Just out of curiosity: did you had any thoughts this mightve been a scam during those 8 days of grinding? Who did you think will pay people to do captchas?" }, { "id": "t1_olhekju", "author": "/u/WorkerSome7813", "updated": "2026-05-13T01:17:16+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t8bh3v/i_actually_made_500_solving_captchas_then_came/olhekju/", "content": "No because they came many times in my social media feed. YouTube, Facebook and many influencers are promoting them." }, { "id": "t1_olhgqoz", "author": "/u/notanyone69", "updated": "2026-05-13T01:29:34+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t8bh3v/i_actually_made_500_solving_captchas_then_came/olhgqoz/", "content": "Glad you didn't lose anything except your time ofc. Try to stay critical and I would recommend to stop following influencers like that and "make money" influencers in general." }, { "id": "t1_olhh17a", "author": "/u/WorkerSome7813", "updated": "2026-05-13T01:31:14+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t8bh3v/i_actually_made_500_solving_captchas_then_came/olhh17a/", "content": "Yeah, well said.." }, { "id": "t1_olie80o", "author": "/u/tanukisuit", "updated": "2026-05-13T05:02:33+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t8bh3v/i_actually_made_500_solving_captchas_then_came/olie80o/", "content": "That's why you do a little bit at first, try to cash out, and if it works, then invest a little bit more time into it. Don't do things for too long before cashing out." }, { "id": "t1_olier0j", "author": "/u/WorkerSome7813", "updated": "2026-05-13T05:06:36+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t8bh3v/i_actually_made_500_solving_captchas_then_came/olier0j/", "content": "But their payout threshold was $500 so without reaching it we can't withdraw brother." }, { "id": "t1_oo5mq5o", "author": "/u/AxUKenYGG", "updated": "2026-05-27T11:59:52+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t8bh3v/i_actually_made_500_solving_captchas_then_came/oo5mq5o/", "content": "This is very helpful to other folks. A lot of scams online that runs this type of free work then you need to pay to get your earnings. Not good. Stay safe evryone" }, { "id": "t1_okvlfan", "author": "/u/creztor", "updated": "2026-05-09T19:55:39+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t8bh3v/i_actually_made_500_solving_captchas_then_came/okvlfan/", "content": "Where AI did you run your OP through?" }, { "id": "t1_okwe9e4", "author": "/u/muncuss", "updated": "2026-05-09T22:37:57+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t8bh3v/i_actually_made_500_solving_captchas_then_came/okwe9e4/", "content": "No way you get $500 in only 8 days in real captcha site" }, { "id": "t1_oky0i6d", "author": "/u/24kTHC", "updated": "2026-05-10T04:58:50+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t8bh3v/i_actually_made_500_solving_captchas_then_came/oky0i6d/", "content": "If only you asked AI if this was a scam, it would have saved you eight days, bro" }, { "id": "t1_okyf3nw", "author": "/u/Opulent-tortoise", "updated": "2026-05-10T07:04:30+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t8bh3v/i_actually_made_500_solving_captchas_then_came/okyf3nw/", "content": "Why tf did you have a chatbot generate this post? You couldn’t type it out yourself?" }, { "id": "t1_okz91vp", "author": "/u/sploshsect", "updated": "2026-05-10T11:32:43+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t8bh3v/i_actually_made_500_solving_captchas_then_came/okz91vp/", "content": "It’s because their whole story didn’t happen. That’s why they also won’t post the supposed websites they used lol" }, { "id": "t1_okyfdrt", "author": "/u/New_Organization_323", "updated": "2026-05-10T07:06:59+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t8bh3v/i_actually_made_500_solving_captchas_then_came/okyfdrt/", "content": "Excited" }, { "id": "t1_okyslm0", "author": "/u/Ha_its_chowdah", "updated": "2026-05-10T09:10:17+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t8bh3v/i_actually_made_500_solving_captchas_then_came/okyslm0/", "content": "What’s the logic in not naming the site?" }, { "id": "t1_okyua08", "author": "/u/WolfAffectionatefk", "updated": "2026-05-10T09:26:14+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t8bh3v/i_actually_made_500_solving_captchas_then_came/okyua08/", "content": "Does this really work?" }, { "id": "t1_okz9wpd", "author": "/u/qbl500", "updated": "2026-05-10T11:39:08+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t8bh3v/i_actually_made_500_solving_captchas_then_came/okz9wpd/", "content": "NAME AND SHAME!" }, { "id": "t1_okzqs94", "author": "/u/Snoo_7967", "updated": "2026-05-10T13:25:25+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t8bh3v/i_actually_made_500_solving_captchas_then_came/okzqs94/", "content": "If you’ve already burnt your time and there’s a fee, why not pay the fee to get the earnings this time and cancel the subscription and move one. You’re walking away from some cash." }, { "id": "t1_ol1scpm", "author": "/u/analoguewavefront", "updated": "2026-05-10T19:23:44+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t8bh3v/i_actually_made_500_solving_captchas_then_came/ol1scpm/", "content": "There is no pay out, ever. This is an task scam, a variant of the advance fee scam. There will never be a payout, just more "fees" to pay and the earnings will appear to go up a lot, but there will always be another fee or tax or some imaginary need to pay money to release earnings. It's a complete scam, no money is ever paid out." }, { "id": "t1_olbfut6", "author": "/u/blackhodown", "updated": "2026-05-12T05:24:24+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t8bh3v/i_actually_made_500_solving_captchas_then_came/olbfut6/", "content": "Lmfao how are people this gullible. It’s actually insane." }, { "id": "t1_olc657c", "author": "/u/DubiousDodo", "updated": "2026-05-12T09:09:16+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t8bh3v/i_actually_made_500_solving_captchas_then_came/olc657c/", "content": "Yeah I'm getting upset like why does everyone's IQ suddenly drop to a single digit before they comment on this subreddit? I'm kinda afraid of posting this lmao.\n Like why is a shit no effort llm post that says nothing and has nothing of value to anyone get awards and a bunch of upvotes? Then people legit asking why paying $100 to withdraw YOUR MONEY is shady, what is this?" }, { "id": "t1_ol2scrq", "author": "/u/DeliciousSimple2", "updated": "2026-05-10T22:29:40+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t8bh3v/i_actually_made_500_solving_captchas_then_came/ol2scrq/", "content": "Report to your states attorney general if you’re in the USA." }, { "id": "t1_ol2z9o1", "author": "/u/deliasafuckinasshole", "updated": "2026-05-10T23:10:57+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t8bh3v/i_actually_made_500_solving_captchas_then_came/ol2z9o1/", "content": "okay 🤖" }, { "id": "t1_ol614oq", "author": "/u/ChannelingWhiteLight", "updated": "2026-05-11T12:26:57+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t8bh3v/i_actually_made_500_solving_captchas_then_came/ol614oq/", "content": "The task of solving CAPTCHAs for others is a clear indicator you are working with a scamming firm.\n A CAPTCHA code is in place for the purpose of preventing scammers from using robots to access certain information or services. (CAPTCHA stands for “Completely Automated Public Turing test to tell Computers and Humans Apart,” so they are designed to be hard for bots to solve.)\n These firms hire others to bypass this security feature." }, { "id": "t1_om62oux", "author": "/u/Temporary_Branch_124", "updated": "2026-05-16T17:51:15+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t8bh3v/i_actually_made_500_solving_captchas_then_came/om62oux/", "content": "So a few of these requests might be by lazy people using AI to buy things for them, and the AI choosing a site that has some kind of captcha involved during purchase or whatever. This is probably a minority, but just pointing out legitimate uses do exist." }, { "id": "t1_ol6vkpb", "author": "/u/Goose532gg", "updated": "2026-05-11T15:00:26+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t8bh3v/i_actually_made_500_solving_captchas_then_came/ol6vkpb/", "content": "If only you used AI (you clearly love to considering your post has been written by an llm) to ask whether or bkt the site is a scam" }, { "id": "t1_ol94wbp", "author": "/u/T00THRE4PER", "updated": "2026-05-11T21:08:49+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t8bh3v/i_actually_made_500_solving_captchas_then_came/ol94wbp/", "content": "Kinda like this Mrbeast Gamba site scam that has been lurking recently all over the web by people who have been hacked." }, { "id": "t1_olbh7m9", "author": "/u/Mediocre_Buffalo_231", "updated": "2026-05-12T05:34:33+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t8bh3v/i_actually_made_500_solving_captchas_then_came/olbh7m9/", "content": "😅🤣😂 this is fucking hilarious" }, { "id": "t1_olfy1t3", "author": "/u/StinkButt9001", "updated": "2026-05-12T20:40:50+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t8bh3v/i_actually_made_500_solving_captchas_then_came/olfy1t3/", "content": "Wouldn't it make sense to pay it?\n Yes it's a scummy scam, but the reality is that you're paying $135 to receive $500. That's a no-brainer." }, { "id": "t1_olh7h9s", "author": "/u/thing85", "updated": "2026-05-13T00:37:57+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t8bh3v/i_actually_made_500_solving_captchas_then_came/olh7h9s/", "content": "If it’s a scam, you’ll be out $135 and never see the $500…" }, { "id": "t1_olh7q0a", "author": "/u/StinkButt9001", "updated": "2026-05-13T00:39:16+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t8bh3v/i_actually_made_500_solving_captchas_then_came/olh7q0a/", "content": "If the entire website a flat out scam, then sure. Just going by what OP is saying I don't get that impression.\n Wish he would name and shame so we could see" }, { "id": "t1_oli1g0e", "author": "/u/Mblid", "updated": "2026-05-13T03:32:24+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t8bh3v/i_actually_made_500_solving_captchas_then_came/oli1g0e/", "content": "What happened to the $500?" }, { "id": "t1_oli2u2x", "author": "/u/Ok_Material9377", "updated": "2026-05-13T03:41:43+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t8bh3v/i_actually_made_500_solving_captchas_then_came/oli2u2x/", "content": "If you worked full time for eight days, the job pays $7.81 an hour" }, { "id": "t1_oljp8uc", "author": "/u/an_unfocused_mind_", "updated": "2026-05-13T11:23:57+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t8bh3v/i_actually_made_500_solving_captchas_then_came/oljp8uc/", "content": "Good thing you didn't do actual work and just pressed some buttons. I've done a lot more for a lot less." }, { "id": "t1_olknlai", "author": "/u/ralphy112", "updated": "2026-05-13T14:26:30+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t8bh3v/i_actually_made_500_solving_captchas_then_came/olknlai/", "content": "Plot twist: An AI Agent is running the website, can't click the "click here to prove you're not a robot", and is farming it out to people like you to get it done. AI Agents might have a limited budget too!" }, { "id": "t1_ollif1k", "author": "/u/Punchdub", "updated": "2026-05-13T16:44:27+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t8bh3v/i_actually_made_500_solving_captchas_then_came/ollif1k/", "content": "How is this about passive income?" }, { "id": "t1_ollrni5", "author": "/u/ReRange-org", "updated": "2026-05-13T17:24:30+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t8bh3v/i_actually_made_500_solving_captchas_then_came/ollrni5/", "content": "This is called human in the loop captcha solving. You were most likely helping bots bypass captchas" }, { "id": "t1_oln6pbu", "author": "/u/NovelLongjumping3965", "updated": "2026-05-13T21:17:21+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t8bh3v/i_actually_made_500_solving_captchas_then_came/oln6pbu/", "content": "A subscription would be for a month so if you were unemployed.\n Work at it 4 (8hr)days a week 16days a month $1000-140(fee) ..$860 @ 128hrs you would make $6.70/hr $10k a year. Ok if you happen to live where the minimum wage is $7.\n No transit,commute fees.\n Down side ;no employee benefits,taxes still due,boring." }, { "id": "t1_olnnbt6", "author": "/u/bankrut", "updated": "2026-05-13T22:42:49+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t8bh3v/i_actually_made_500_solving_captchas_then_came/olnnbt6/", "content": "What if instead of viewing this as a total loss, you consider it a valuable experience in spotting online scams? You’ve now got firsthand knowledge to warn others and sharpen your own instincts. Maybe it’s time to channel that energy into a more secure gig or even a side project that builds a tangible skill. What do you think could be a more rewarding investment of your time?" }, { "id": "t1_olnvj9s", "author": "/u/Sufficient_Soil7438", "updated": "2026-05-13T23:28:00+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t8bh3v/i_actually_made_500_solving_captchas_then_came/olnvj9s/", "content": "Why would someone pay you to solve captcha’s? That should have been all the clue you needed honestly." }, { "id": "t1_olp6ufa", "author": "/u/Rekani", "updated": "2026-05-14T04:01:48+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t8bh3v/i_actually_made_500_solving_captchas_then_came/olp6ufa/", "content": "How much does it come to per hour" }, { "id": "t1_olpefad", "author": "/u/dips15", "updated": "2026-05-14T04:57:56+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t8bh3v/i_actually_made_500_solving_captchas_then_came/olpefad/", "content": "Good on you to realize the scam. Wasted time sucks, but could have been worse." }, { "id": "t1_olpige8", "author": "/u/dhairyagoyal0001", "updated": "2026-05-14T05:30:03+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t8bh3v/i_actually_made_500_solving_captchas_then_came/olpige8/", "content": "i feel like its not worth it you have to solve a lot of captchas its not worth it" }, { "id": "t1_olq03ka", "author": "/u/Piece-Brave", "updated": "2026-05-14T08:01:08+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t8bh3v/i_actually_made_500_solving_captchas_then_came/olq03ka/", "content": "I recently tried Honeygain, i'm new to this and i don't know how this works. Lol." }, { "id": "t1_olqrqc7", "author": "/u/Plane-Remote1797", "updated": "2026-05-14T11:41:08+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t8bh3v/i_actually_made_500_solving_captchas_then_came/olqrqc7/", "content": "Congratulations! You helped the US bomb poor people!" }, { "id": "t1_olr11lc", "author": "/u/Sydney_girl_45", "updated": "2026-05-14T12:35:18+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t8bh3v/i_actually_made_500_solving_captchas_then_came/olr11lc/", "content": "this is the part fake “side hustles” never show in those youtube videos. they hook people with a growing balance on a screen, then hit them with a fee once you’re emotionally invested. glad you stopped before losing actual money too" }, { "id": "t1_olsx4a1", "author": "/u/GuardThomas", "updated": "2026-05-14T17:54:36+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t8bh3v/i_actually_made_500_solving_captchas_then_came/olsx4a1/", "content": "LOL I read this as OP coded a captcha solving bot for 8 days, and the bot would solve the captcha to make money. OP is the bot..." }, { "id": "t1_oluj62f", "author": "/u/jay_0804", "updated": "2026-05-14T22:36:12+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t8bh3v/i_actually_made_500_solving_captchas_then_came/oluj62f/", "content": "Yeah this is a super common trap, happens way more than people think.\n Any platform that makes you “earn” money and then asks you to pay to withdraw it is basically a textbook scam. Legit platforms deduct fees from earnings or have transparent payout thresholds, they don’t charge a random “unlock fee” at the end.\n Real talk, these systems are designed around sunk cost psychology, like you already said. Once someone has invested time, they’re more likely to pay just to not “waste” it.\n Good on you for not paying though, a lot of people do.\n If anyone reading this is trying to make side income, stick to stuff like freelancing, tutoring, or even basic client work. Even small gigs are better than these captcha or “click to earn” sites." }, { "id": "t1_olwe1ci", "author": "/u/Rufus-76", "updated": "2026-05-15T05:50:41+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t8bh3v/i_actually_made_500_solving_captchas_then_came/olwe1ci/", "content": "I've heard of people spending thousands of dollars to make commission targets that don't exist. I don't get how they fall for it." }, { "id": "t1_om23apb", "author": "/u/heliox", "updated": "2026-05-16T01:45:05+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t8bh3v/i_actually_made_500_solving_captchas_then_came/om23apb/", "content": "Considering that your work enables automated systems to bypass a security control to commit fraud, you're pretty lucky you didn't already lose a ton of money." }, { "id": "t1_om32ukk", "author": "/u/Ok-Aardvark-9938", "updated": "2026-05-16T06:01:48+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t8bh3v/i_actually_made_500_solving_captchas_then_came/om32ukk/", "content": "You need to get better at the prompt writing" }, { "id": "t1_om4cgfi", "author": "/u/OkPop9455", "updated": "2026-05-16T12:24:26+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t8bh3v/i_actually_made_500_solving_captchas_then_came/om4cgfi/", "content": "This is kind of a useless post if you don’t note the company" }, { "id": "t1_omdqeol", "author": "/u/djsmommy11", "updated": "2026-05-17T22:07:39+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t8bh3v/i_actually_made_500_solving_captchas_then_came/omdqeol/", "content": "Wow people scam anyway they can!🤦‍♀️" }, { "id": "t1_omr07tl", "author": "/u/Sea_sociate", "updated": "2026-05-19T21:31:11+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t8bh3v/i_actually_made_500_solving_captchas_then_came/omr07tl/", "content": "Damn, that sucks" }, { "id": "t1_on6j2zv", "author": "/u/Angelo__30", "updated": "2026-05-22T03:26:53+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t8bh3v/i_actually_made_500_solving_captchas_then_came/on6j2zv/", "content": "how" }, { "id": "t1_onvi02h", "author": "/u/kingkled_0w0", "updated": "2026-05-25T23:17:25+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t8bh3v/i_actually_made_500_solving_captchas_then_came/onvi02h/", "content": "Legit platforms never require you to pay a fee to access earnings you’ve already made, so the withdrawal payment is the clearest possible red flag." }, { "id": "t1_oo7ukqi", "author": "/u/kamra_vanshhh", "updated": "2026-05-27T18:03:23+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t8bh3v/i_actually_made_500_solving_captchas_then_came/oo7ukqi/", "content": "Honestly posts like this are more valuable than half the “easy side hustle” content online because this is how a lot of scams actually work now. They don’t steal your money upfront, they steal your time first so you become emotionally invested enough to ignore the red flags later.\n The scary part is the dashboard balance makes it feel real. Your brain starts treating the fake $500 like money you already own, which is exactly why the $135 fee works on some people.\n Sucks losing 8 days, but not paying the fee was genuinely the win here." }, { "id": "t1_op1x67j", "author": "/u/UNLEASHER12", "updated": "2026-06-01T02:08:09+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t8bh3v/i_actually_made_500_solving_captchas_then_came/op1x67j/", "content": "In what world is 8 days of grinding considered "passive income"??" }, { "id": "t1_op8b7oh", "author": "/u/mohamedsamy23", "updated": "2026-06-02T00:44:42+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t8bh3v/i_actually_made_500_solving_captchas_then_came/op8b7oh/", "content": "I working on three side hustle sites that are hood with me" }, { "id": "t1_okvki39", "author": "/u/Normal_Sprinkles_710", "updated": "2026-05-09T19:50:37+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t8bh3v/i_actually_made_500_solving_captchas_then_came/okvki39/", "content": "Ai sloppppppp" }, { "id": "t1_ol0duwq", "author": "/u/Excel_User_1977", "updated": "2026-05-10T15:23:53+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t8bh3v/i_actually_made_500_solving_captchas_then_came/ol0duwq/", "content": "But you also helped scammers solve captchas.\n nice job" }, { "id": "t1_ol3j7ty", "author": "/u/gohgetgreen", "updated": "2026-05-11T01:09:23+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t8bh3v/i_actually_made_500_solving_captchas_then_came/ol3j7ty/", "content": "Oh .I thought you're making a profit? U can. Just cancel subscription after right?" }, { "id": "t1_ol4hv8w", "author": "/u/MonkeyJunky5", "updated": "2026-05-11T05:04:02+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t8bh3v/i_actually_made_500_solving_captchas_then_came/ol4hv8w/", "content": "Why isn’t it a good deal to pay $135 to get the $500?" }, { "id": "t1_ol4svay", "author": "/u/Djocos", "updated": "2026-05-11T06:36:18+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t8bh3v/i_actually_made_500_solving_captchas_then_came/ol4svay/", "content": "You're certain that after you pay, you will receive the money ? Nope, si it could be a scam and you lost time and money\n And you already consum time to get the money, why would you pay for it to ? This is absurd." }, { "id": "t1_olc6asb", "author": "/u/DubiousDodo", "updated": "2026-05-12T09:10:40+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t8bh3v/i_actually_made_500_solving_captchas_then_came/olc6asb/", "content": "Are you actually asking that?" }, { "id": "t1_oliq1bl", "author": "/u/MonkeyJunky5", "updated": "2026-05-13T06:36:48+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t8bh3v/i_actually_made_500_solving_captchas_then_came/oliq1bl/", "content": "Yes, because if they actually pay then it is ok.\n The only thing is if they don’t." }, { "id": "t1_ol4vl77", "author": "/u/Zealousideal_Yard651", "updated": "2026-05-11T06:59:51+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t8bh3v/i_actually_made_500_solving_captchas_then_came/ol4vl77/", "content": "Not only did you get scammed, you partook in criminal activity. Captcha solver sites like this are there for you to solve captchas for criminal bot networks...." }, { "id": "t1_olc8h9b", "author": "/u/DubiousDodo", "updated": "2026-05-12T09:29:58+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t8bh3v/i_actually_made_500_solving_captchas_then_came/olc8h9b/", "content": "Bot mafia sounds kinda cool NGL" }, { "id": "t1_oldj7rh", "author": "/u/csmiki04", "updated": "2026-05-12T14:13:34+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t8bh3v/i_actually_made_500_solving_captchas_then_came/oldj7rh/", "content": "This reads like ChatGPT" }, { "id": "t1_olgmuse", "author": "/u/Francis33", "updated": "2026-05-12T22:44:32+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t8bh3v/i_actually_made_500_solving_captchas_then_came/olgmuse/", "content": ""I spent the last 8 days grinding on a captcha-solving site. "\n brother in christ what" }, { "id": "t1_om9uwkk", "author": "/u/Wild_Guess858", "updated": "2026-05-17T08:37:54+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t8bh3v/i_actually_made_500_solving_captchas_then_came/om9uwkk/", "content": "I hate these kind of people" }, { "id": "t1_ol32k49", "author": "/u/CypherBob", "updated": "2026-05-10T23:30:29+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t8bh3v/i_actually_made_500_solving_captchas_then_came/ol32k49/", "content": "Reads like another llm post.\n Also not passive." }, { "id": "t1_olay6cb", "author": "/u/SqueakyWheel2323", "updated": "2026-05-12T03:18:41+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t8bh3v/i_actually_made_500_solving_captchas_then_came/olay6cb/", "content": "Well, it's because it is..." }, { "id": "t1_okw9sxm", "author": "/u/future-memories010", "updated": "2026-05-09T22:11:20+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t8bh3v/i_actually_made_500_solving_captchas_then_came/okw9sxm/", "content": "That sucks. But honestly if I were you, I would just pay the fee to get my money because it's still a net profit.\n Then make a YouTube showing how this a scam and to nor fall for it and monetize that. Make money to fight against them." }, { "id": "t1_ol1sba8", "author": "/u/analoguewavefront", "updated": "2026-05-10T19:23:32+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t8bh3v/i_actually_made_500_solving_captchas_then_came/ol1sba8/", "content": "There is no pay out, ever. This is an task scam, a variant of the advance fee scam. There will never be a payout, just more "fees" to pay and the earnings will appear to go up a lot, but there will always be another fee or tax or some imaginary need to pay money to release earnings. It's a complete scam, no money is ever paid out." }, { "id": "t1_ol3fk55", "author": "/u/future-memories010", "updated": "2026-05-11T00:47:59+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t8bh3v/i_actually_made_500_solving_captchas_then_came/ol3fk55/", "content": "OK I see. I didn't realize." }, { "id": "t1_ol3m2oi", "author": "/u/DebtBeneficial9444", "updated": "2026-05-11T01:26:41+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t8bh3v/i_actually_made_500_solving_captchas_then_came/ol3m2oi/", "content": "If you have little investment and wanna earn daily do let me know" }, { "id": "t1_okvnj5l", "author": "/u/urbannomad87", "updated": "2026-05-09T20:07:18+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t8bh3v/i_actually_made_500_solving_captchas_then_came/okvnj5l/", "content": "Imagine how many captchas this moron did" }, { "id": "t1_okvc1mw", "author": "/u/Chorvath", "updated": "2026-05-09T19:04:45+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t8bh3v/i_actually_made_500_solving_captchas_then_came/okvc1mw/", "content": "I mean, it's still 365 dollars. Not sure what grinding for 8 days mean, obviously of you had to go through 20000 captchas áll day then no.\n The fee is át every withrawal or monthly?" }, { "id": "t1_okvf008", "author": "/u/Abject_Constant_2887", "updated": "2026-05-09T19:20:26+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t8bh3v/i_actually_made_500_solving_captchas_then_came/okvf008/", "content": "Your brain must be really smooth. After paying their scam is done, they profit from free work and idiots that pay them." }, { "id": "t1_ol1vhcy", "author": "/u/Chorvath", "updated": "2026-05-10T19:38:50+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t8bh3v/i_actually_made_500_solving_captchas_then_came/ol1vhcy/", "content": "I read it again and now I see what's the issue, you are right. When I first read it I thought they just "take" that money but you get the rest of the 500 dollars. Paying them to get access to 500 is scammy yeah." }, { "id": "t1_okyrbbv", "author": "/u/MrPhillipToYou", "updated": "2026-05-10T08:58:05+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t8bh3v/i_actually_made_500_solving_captchas_then_came/okyrbbv/", "content": "If they deposited $365 maybe it'd make sense. but you pay the $135 and then never get the $500" } ] }, { "source": "r/passive_income top month", "id": "t3_1tgrffo", "title": "How a fake $29 refundable exam fee turned into a $52,200 cash heist.", "author": "/u/WorkerSome7813", "updated": "2026-05-18T16:15:51+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tgrffo/how_a_fake_29_refundable_exam_fee_turned_into_a/", "content": "Umm yeah, so my younger brother finally told me today about how he got scammed a few months back while looking for some side income.\n He wanted some passive income or a flexible part-time gig to balance his classes, so he found a clean, professional looking ad on LinkedIn for a data entry job and applied.\n The agency told him he had to pay a $29 fee to take a simple screening exam, but swore it was 100% refundable if he didn't get the job.\n It's just the price of a takeout meal, so he thought, ahh, why not just take a chance, and paid them in cash at their temporary office.\n They told him his exam papers would arrive by mail in two weeks, which gave them a perfect buffer of absolute silence. Umm, yeah, the papers never came, and by then, the office was completely cleaned out.\n He was too embarrassed to say anything when it happened, but he finally brought it up today because he ran into some old classmates and realized a massive network of local student groups all got hit by the exact same agency during that same week.\n People in these student group chats started sharing how they got ripped off too, and when we tallied up the numbers from the local chats, we found out at least 1,800 people fell for it.\n When you look at the bigger picture, that is $52,200 in pure cash stolen from broke people looking for work in just one week. These guys aren't looking to rob one big rich person, they are harvesting thousands of people looking for a side hustle for pocket change, turning a tiny twenty nine dollar trick into a massive heist.\n The whole thing works because nobody is gonna go to the police over thirty bucks. People ask why we didn't report it, but if you lose $29, you feel a bit stupid, look at the absolute nightmare of trying to file a report over such a small amount, and just decide it's not worth the mess.\n The scammers know this, so they fly right under the radar, pack up, and move to a different city to do the exact same thing. Seriously, if you are looking for easy passive income or a part-time job and they ask you to pay money to get hired, no matter how small or refundable it is, it's a scam. Just walk away.\n Drop your thoughts and share anything if you faced anything like this..\n submitted by /u/WorkerSome7813\n [link] [comments]", "contentHtml": "

Umm yeah, so my younger brother finally told me today about how he got scammed a few months back while looking for some side income.

He wanted some passive income or a flexible part-time gig to balance his classes, so he found a clean, professional looking ad on LinkedIn for a data entry job and applied.

The agency told him he had to pay a $29 fee to take a simple screening exam, but swore it was 100% refundable if he didn't get the job.

It's just the price of a takeout meal, so he thought, ahh, why not just take a chance, and paid them in cash at their temporary office.

They told him his exam papers would arrive by mail in two weeks, which gave them a perfect buffer of absolute silence. Umm, yeah, the papers never came, and by then, the office was completely cleaned out.

He was too embarrassed to say anything when it happened, but he finally brought it up today because he ran into some old classmates and realized a massive network of local student groups all got hit by the exact same agency during that same week.

People in these student group chats started sharing how they got ripped off too, and when we tallied up the numbers from the local chats, we found out at least 1,800 people fell for it.

When you look at the bigger picture, that is $52,200 in pure cash stolen from broke people looking for work in just one week. These guys aren't looking to rob one big rich person, they are harvesting thousands of people looking for a side hustle for pocket change, turning a tiny twenty nine dollar trick into a massive heist.

The whole thing works because nobody is gonna go to the police over thirty bucks. People ask why we didn't report it, but if you lose $29, you feel a bit stupid, look at the absolute nightmare of trying to file a report over such a small amount, and just decide it's not worth the mess.

The scammers know this, so they fly right under the radar, pack up, and move to a different city to do the exact same thing. Seriously, if you are looking for easy passive income or a part-time job and they ask you to pay money to get hired, no matter how small or refundable it is, it's a scam. Just walk away.

Drop your thoughts and share anything if you faced anything like this..

submitted by /u/WorkerSome7813
[link] [comments]", "comments": [ { "id": "t1_omiap0a", "author": "/u/AutoModerator", "updated": "2026-05-18T16:15:52+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tgrffo/how_a_fake_29_refundable_exam_fee_turned_into_a/omiap0a/", "content": "Check out the Community Highlights for current and future Mod Vetted opportunities and Newsletter Episodes.\n Please do due diligence on any crypto opportunity. A simple google search could save you a fortune.\n I am a bot, and this action was performed automatically. Please contact the moderators of this subreddit if you have any questions or concerns." }, { "id": "t1_omikklx", "author": "/u/Temporary-Cicada-392", "updated": "2026-05-18T17:00:42+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tgrffo/how_a_fake_29_refundable_exam_fee_turned_into_a/omikklx/", "content": "The way you phrased your post made me think they stole $52,000 from each individual including your brother" }, { "id": "t1_omil2q6", "author": "/u/WorkerSome7813", "updated": "2026-05-18T17:02:58+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tgrffo/how_a_fake_29_refundable_exam_fee_turned_into_a/omil2q6/", "content": "my bad, definitely meant $52,200 split across the whole group...not from each person.. If they stole $52k from a single student, my brother would be in a whole different kind of trouble." }, { "id": "t1_omil9sy", "author": "/u/Temporary-Cicada-392", "updated": "2026-05-18T17:03:51+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tgrffo/how_a_fake_29_refundable_exam_fee_turned_into_a/omil9sy/", "content": "Glad it’s not that much, also sorry that he’d get scammed at all" }, { "id": "t1_omilpk4", "author": "/u/WorkerSome7813", "updated": "2026-05-18T17:05:50+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tgrffo/how_a_fake_29_refundable_exam_fee_turned_into_a/omilpk4/", "content": "appreciate that man. It definitely sucks, but at least it was a cheap lesson for him at 29 bucks." }, { "id": "t1_omlzbg6", "author": "/u/No-Explanation-4300", "updated": "2026-05-19T04:04:56+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tgrffo/how_a_fake_29_refundable_exam_fee_turned_into_a/omlzbg6/", "content": "I had hoped maybe your brother countered with successfully heisting the scammer." }, { "id": "t1_omngnnv", "author": "/u/montana77", "updated": "2026-05-19T11:24:50+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tgrffo/how_a_fake_29_refundable_exam_fee_turned_into_a/omngnnv/", "content": "I’d watch that movie." }, { "id": "t1_on72qrk", "author": "/u/ai-techguy001", "updated": "2026-05-22T05:55:43+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tgrffo/how_a_fake_29_refundable_exam_fee_turned_into_a/on72qrk/", "content": "yeah that still hurts, $52k total from a group of broke students is genuinely awful." }, { "id": "t1_omo145v", "author": "/u/Wise-Wafer-2906", "updated": "2026-05-19T13:23:47+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tgrffo/how_a_fake_29_refundable_exam_fee_turned_into_a/omo145v/", "content": "The way they phrased it made me think this was their idea for passive income. 😂" }, { "id": "t1_omjhx0z", "author": "/u/ascarymoviereview", "updated": "2026-05-18T19:52:52+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tgrffo/how_a_fake_29_refundable_exam_fee_turned_into_a/omjhx0z/", "content": "Same. Still crazy all those people got ripped off :(" }, { "id": "t1_on13qex", "author": "/u/LegitimateJoke3598", "updated": "2026-05-21T10:22:34+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tgrffo/how_a_fake_29_refundable_exam_fee_turned_into_a/on13qex/", "content": "And that ladies and gentleman is his Ted talk on how to make an attractive title... not click bait but grammar makes it seem more sensational at first and it could've been a fluke but this is the way" }, { "id": "t1_on14333", "author": "/u/EveryAccount7729", "updated": "2026-05-21T10:25:18+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tgrffo/how_a_fake_29_refundable_exam_fee_turned_into_a/on14333/", "content": "ODD, because it extremely explicitly doesn't.\n it says the exam turned into that. it implies the entire exam as a concept." }, { "id": "t1_omicatf", "author": "/u/Glittering_Bet_4617", "updated": "2026-05-18T16:23:17+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tgrffo/how_a_fake_29_refundable_exam_fee_turned_into_a/omicatf/", "content": "The same fraud are still going on here in india" }, { "id": "t1_omj88lq", "author": "/u/therealzkramer", "updated": "2026-05-18T19:03:52+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tgrffo/how_a_fake_29_refundable_exam_fee_turned_into_a/omj88lq/", "content": "No shit fraud was invented there lol" }, { "id": "t1_omjk5i6", "author": "/u/Fubuttpussy", "updated": "2026-05-18T20:03:12+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tgrffo/how_a_fake_29_refundable_exam_fee_turned_into_a/omjk5i6/", "content": "Why did you redeem" }, { "id": "t1_omku9iy", "author": "/u/Inedible-denim", "updated": "2026-05-19T00:04:45+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tgrffo/how_a_fake_29_refundable_exam_fee_turned_into_a/omku9iy/", "content": "Do NOT REDEEEEEEM!!!!" }, { "id": "t1_omlwbsn", "author": "/u/Cobra11Murderer", "updated": "2026-05-19T03:45:44+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tgrffo/how_a_fake_29_refundable_exam_fee_turned_into_a/omlwbsn/", "content": "google play?" }, { "id": "t1_omm5ch7", "author": "/u/Inedible-denim", "updated": "2026-05-19T04:48:28+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tgrffo/how_a_fake_29_refundable_exam_fee_turned_into_a/omm5ch7/", "content": "I scratched it off and.." }, { "id": "t1_omrpoi5", "author": "/u/ambivert_engineer", "updated": "2026-05-19T23:47:41+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tgrffo/how_a_fake_29_refundable_exam_fee_turned_into_a/omrpoi5/", "content": "Yeah I'm a Nigerian prince. I'm stuck please help" }, { "id": "t1_on1vi6q", "author": "/u/kriisg1022", "updated": "2026-05-21T13:13:50+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tgrffo/how_a_fake_29_refundable_exam_fee_turned_into_a/on1vi6q/", "content": "Mam listen to me! ......you are not listening." }, { "id": "t1_omjqzuw", "author": "/u/CaloK1ng", "updated": "2026-05-18T20:34:26+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tgrffo/how_a_fake_29_refundable_exam_fee_turned_into_a/omjqzuw/", "content": "Lol, I fear few will get the reference" }, { "id": "t1_omkdbjf", "author": "/u/coxusw", "updated": "2026-05-18T22:27:01+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tgrffo/how_a_fake_29_refundable_exam_fee_turned_into_a/omkdbjf/", "content": "I got the reference and I laughed out loud now people are looking at me" }, { "id": "t1_omrpi8v", "author": "/u/ambivert_engineer", "updated": "2026-05-19T23:46:41+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tgrffo/how_a_fake_29_refundable_exam_fee_turned_into_a/omrpi8v/", "content": "Same as opening up a empty daycare." }, { "id": "t1_omu431c", "author": "/u/Interrupshin", "updated": "2026-05-20T10:01:59+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tgrffo/how_a_fake_29_refundable_exam_fee_turned_into_a/omu431c/", "content": "We're getting to the point where most of the world knows each and every thing" }, { "id": "t1_oml8ibc", "author": "/u/ambivert_engineer", "updated": "2026-05-19T01:26:33+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tgrffo/how_a_fake_29_refundable_exam_fee_turned_into_a/oml8ibc/", "content": "Yeah it was invented in 1600 when Europeans came to India." }, { "id": "t1_omo1opn", "author": "/u/overtherainbowofcrap", "updated": "2026-05-19T13:26:44+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tgrffo/how_a_fake_29_refundable_exam_fee_turned_into_a/omo1opn/", "content": "This scam is old. My friend in the early 90s saw a poster on a wall for something similar to make money. Mail $20 to “apply” for a job you can do from home. What he got back was instructions on how to run a scam like he just fell for, lol" }, { "id": "t1_omspqvs", "author": "/u/Possible_Poet_232", "updated": "2026-05-20T03:15:54+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tgrffo/how_a_fake_29_refundable_exam_fee_turned_into_a/omspqvs/", "content": "The fact they even delivered something is amazing btw. Haha, responsible scammers!!" }, { "id": "t1_omtjaf8", "author": "/u/rowdy0044", "updated": "2026-05-20T06:59:24+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tgrffo/how_a_fake_29_refundable_exam_fee_turned_into_a/omtjaf8/", "content": "Gets around the fact it would become mail fraud and they’d have USPS Police after them, who take that shit VERY seriously, even over petty dollar amounts." }, { "id": "t1_on1zgjg", "author": "/u/kriisg1022", "updated": "2026-05-21T13:33:48+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tgrffo/how_a_fake_29_refundable_exam_fee_turned_into_a/on1zgjg/", "content": "When would they go after Trump University ? Some students mail their checks." }, { "id": "t1_omiicso", "author": "/u/Henrik-Powers", "updated": "2026-05-18T16:50:50+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tgrffo/how_a_fake_29_refundable_exam_fee_turned_into_a/omiicso/", "content": "That’s why I get several texts a week from so called recruiters for too good to be true work from home/remote jobs, they are scammers looking for gullible people willing to fork out a few bucks. It’s been going on with rentals for awhile, say you need to pay $50 for background checks and they just take your money" }, { "id": "t1_omijc6y", "author": "/u/WorkerSome7813", "updated": "2026-05-18T16:55:12+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tgrffo/how_a_fake_29_refundable_exam_fee_turned_into_a/omijc6y/", "content": "exactly, the rental background check scam is the exact same playbook.. it's wild how they do this everywhere now. Be safe.." }, { "id": "t1_omitimi", "author": "/u/DoCrashOut", "updated": "2026-05-18T17:43:42+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tgrffo/how_a_fake_29_refundable_exam_fee_turned_into_a/omitimi/", "content": "Just a word to the wise, no reputable company would make you pay to work for them. Some jobs will take the costs if work uniforms out of your first couple of paychecks, but thats contingent upon hiring." }, { "id": "t1_omivyt7", "author": "/u/WorkerSome7813", "updated": "2026-05-18T17:58:33+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tgrffo/how_a_fake_29_refundable_exam_fee_turned_into_a/omivyt7/", "content": "yeah, exactly, that's the golden rule right there. If a company requires money from you upfront before you even sign a contract, it's a scam 100% of the time. Reputable places never flip the bill onto the job seeker." }, { "id": "t1_omlnpwi", "author": "/u/Chelle62099", "updated": "2026-05-19T02:54:02+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tgrffo/how_a_fake_29_refundable_exam_fee_turned_into_a/omlnpwi/", "content": "I got one that was supposedly going to reimburse for equipment sold only by their approved vendor, a remote transcription job. They had a huge list of equipment totaling about $2k including an iPad Pro like come on" }, { "id": "t1_omnq5rr", "author": "/u/WorkerSome7813", "updated": "2026-05-19T12:23:48+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tgrffo/how_a_fake_29_refundable_exam_fee_turned_into_a/omnq5rr/", "content": "iPad Pro for a transcription job lolll it is a dead giveaway. They just want you to buy from their fake approved vendor site so they can pocket the $2k and disappear" }, { "id": "t1_omihth1", "author": "/u/Optimal-Energy8227", "updated": "2026-05-18T16:48:26+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tgrffo/how_a_fake_29_refundable_exam_fee_turned_into_a/omihth1/", "content": "if you collectively get together im sure youll be able to file a lawsuit. There is rent records/leases which should be easy to obtain by law enforcement ... One person wont matter aka you but if much larger group. sounds like Rico charges. Small fish... but the scheme gets larger and larger only can imagine on a national level/city level how much they are raking in" }, { "id": "t1_omij4r3", "author": "/u/WorkerSome7813", "updated": "2026-05-18T16:54:17+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tgrffo/how_a_fake_29_refundable_exam_fee_turned_into_a/omij4r3/", "content": "Hmm yeah, in a perfect world that sounds great, but they definitely used fake names and cash to rent the space, and trying to organize 1800 random students over 29 bucks is just a nightmare." }, { "id": "t1_omkp6xi", "author": "/u/ArbitraryMeritocracy", "updated": "2026-05-18T23:35:17+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tgrffo/how_a_fake_29_refundable_exam_fee_turned_into_a/omkp6xi/", "content": "Maybe asking for the company's tax number before paying (no one should ever pay for employment) might help avoid getting scammed?\n I got scammed a few times but one of the most messed up was like a data entry remote position. They sent me a large check and told me to purchase office equipment with it. Something about dealing with them felt off and I asked the bank to check the cheque. The bank charged me $15 dollars for trying to process a fake check.\n I'm glad I asked but speaking up and making sure put me into overdraft when that happened. I was not aware I would get dinged for asking first." }, { "id": "t1_oms48cg", "author": "/u/MusicForDJs", "updated": "2026-05-20T01:11:00+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tgrffo/how_a_fake_29_refundable_exam_fee_turned_into_a/oms48cg/", "content": "An acquaintance fell for a similar scam. They charged him $15 and sent him a link to join an affiliate program as a sub-referrer. Joining Extecprograma was supposed to be free!" }, { "id": "t1_oms52s1", "author": "/u/ArbitraryMeritocracy", "updated": "2026-05-20T01:15:43+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tgrffo/how_a_fake_29_refundable_exam_fee_turned_into_a/oms52s1/", "content": "One of the first job scams I had, they claimed to be a paper company and had me call random numbers of companies trying to find the name of the person who does billing. They just sent invoices and hopped that the billing person would just pay the bill. facebook got swindled by millions with this method alone.\n Took me like 2 hours to figure it out and I ran out of the place so quick. I didn't know what to do, I couldn't find a job anywhere and I was facing an eviction from my apartment. My abusive ex left me holding the bag - again." }, { "id": "t1_omj2pa1", "author": "/u/panic_bread", "updated": "2026-05-18T18:36:21+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tgrffo/how_a_fake_29_refundable_exam_fee_turned_into_a/omj2pa1/", "content": "How do you expect them to find each other?" }, { "id": "t1_omj5djx", "author": "/u/Optimal-Energy8227", "updated": "2026-05-18T18:49:38+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tgrffo/how_a_fake_29_refundable_exam_fee_turned_into_a/omj5djx/", "content": "Op said 1800 ppl fell for it , if you report it , and multiple ppl report it the government will take a look into. Especially if it’s taking national wide . Perhaps FBI would take a look into this as it’s national wide" }, { "id": "t1_omkv2pv", "author": "/u/Red_Desert_Phoenix", "updated": "2026-05-19T00:09:26+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tgrffo/how_a_fake_29_refundable_exam_fee_turned_into_a/omkv2pv/", "content": "I'm probably going to get some hate for this, but the scammers kinda did everyone a favor. For the low price of $29, they learned to be a lot more careful in the future, and hopefully learned a bunch of red flags to watch out for.\n It's still a dick thing to do though." }, { "id": "t1_omr8phy", "author": "/u/Sunkcostfallacy786", "updated": "2026-05-19T22:13:54+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tgrffo/how_a_fake_29_refundable_exam_fee_turned_into_a/omr8phy/", "content": "Exactly what I was thinking" }, { "id": "t1_omuyku4", "author": "/u/flightwatcher45", "updated": "2026-05-20T13:16:55+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tgrffo/how_a_fake_29_refundable_exam_fee_turned_into_a/omuyku4/", "content": "Ding ding, very cheap lesson! I'll just copy you're notes tho haha." }, { "id": "t1_omiogqt", "author": "/u/upworking_engineer", "updated": "2026-05-18T17:18:11+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tgrffo/how_a_fake_29_refundable_exam_fee_turned_into_a/omiogqt/", "content": "FWIW, lots of job lead posts on Facebook are similar preying on job-desperate people." }, { "id": "t1_omip3gm", "author": "/u/WorkerSome7813", "updated": "2026-05-18T17:21:02+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tgrffo/how_a_fake_29_refundable_exam_fee_turned_into_a/omip3gm/", "content": "Facebook has definitely become a major hub for that...They specifically target local community groups and buy/sell pages because those places are naturally filled with people looking for quick money..." }, { "id": "t1_omjn2qn", "author": "/u/MrWarmLight", "updated": "2026-05-18T20:16:43+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tgrffo/how_a_fake_29_refundable_exam_fee_turned_into_a/omjn2qn/", "content": "A legit company will never ask for money in order to process your application. That’s a huge red flag" }, { "id": "t1_omnqel9", "author": "/u/WorkerSome7813", "updated": "2026-05-19T12:25:15+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tgrffo/how_a_fake_29_refundable_exam_fee_turned_into_a/omnqel9/", "content": "exactly, that's why they target students and teens so heavily. They know younger people haven't been through corporate hiring processes yet" }, { "id": "t1_omopt8c", "author": "/u/queenie8465", "updated": "2026-05-19T15:21:35+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tgrffo/how_a_fake_29_refundable_exam_fee_turned_into_a/omopt8c/", "content": "This is true but then you try to apply for housing and rental companies charge $50 for a background check or application fee" }, { "id": "t1_omigc8j", "author": "/u/SocYS4", "updated": "2026-05-18T16:41:43+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tgrffo/how_a_fake_29_refundable_exam_fee_turned_into_a/omigc8j/", "content": "r/scams would probably be a better subreddit, though a rule of thumb to follow when undertaking or searching for a new role always do your due diligence and research for jobs that ask for money from you for any reason" }, { "id": "t1_omigqrj", "author": "/u/WorkerSome7813", "updated": "2026-05-18T16:43:34+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tgrffo/how_a_fake_29_refundable_exam_fee_turned_into_a/omigqrj/", "content": "Sure i will cross post over there. Thank you" }, { "id": "t1_omixbwz", "author": "/u/khizoa", "updated": "2026-05-18T18:07:02+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tgrffo/how_a_fake_29_refundable_exam_fee_turned_into_a/omixbwz/", "content": "yeah, posting it here... i thought it was suggesting that it was a good source of passive income lol" }, { "id": "t1_omjfeyv", "author": "/u/CheekAltruistic5921", "updated": "2026-05-18T19:40:55+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tgrffo/how_a_fake_29_refundable_exam_fee_turned_into_a/omjfeyv/", "content": "Sounds like Vector marketing scam" }, { "id": "t1_omjhmer", "author": "/u/jamesdcreviston", "updated": "2026-05-18T19:51:29+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tgrffo/how_a_fake_29_refundable_exam_fee_turned_into_a/omjhmer/", "content": "Sadly I fell for this when I started college. I hate them so much." }, { "id": "t1_omjigrp", "author": "/u/CheekAltruistic5921", "updated": "2026-05-18T19:55:23+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tgrffo/how_a_fake_29_refundable_exam_fee_turned_into_a/omjigrp/", "content": "I know several people from my graduating class in high school that also fell for it, they sent them to all of us, and it was somehow linked to the school so it seemed legit. Id been on the internet for too long by then, but I know at least 4 people who fell for it despite my urging against." }, { "id": "t1_omjmz36", "author": "/u/MaxwellSmart07", "updated": "2026-05-18T20:16:14+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tgrffo/how_a_fake_29_refundable_exam_fee_turned_into_a/omjmz36/", "content": "$29 bucks is a cheap lesson. It was a bargain." }, { "id": "t1_omjt1at", "author": "/u/LevelEar5916", "updated": "2026-05-18T20:43:48+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tgrffo/how_a_fake_29_refundable_exam_fee_turned_into_a/omjt1at/", "content": "My student loan once sent me a check when I finally paid it off saying I paid an extra 100 dollars. I was in need of money. So I cashed the check....\n Fast forward. Years later I get a bill for like 12,000 dollars. Because the check kept the loan open. I still get letters for it. But they know it's a scam so they don't do anything about it." }, { "id": "t1_omnqmfc", "author": "/u/WorkerSome7813", "updated": "2026-05-19T12:26:32+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tgrffo/how_a_fake_29_refundable_exam_fee_turned_into_a/omnqmfc/", "content": "Glad you aren't paying them a single cent for that nonsense.." }, { "id": "t1_omk5sns", "author": "/u/ApprehensiveBowl1746", "updated": "2026-05-18T21:45:49+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tgrffo/how_a_fake_29_refundable_exam_fee_turned_into_a/omk5sns/", "content": "This is how you get rich. Scamming everyone, including the government and the government to their people.\n Honest work will never get you there. Rare if it does." }, { "id": "t1_omlsfdn", "author": "/u/SpaceNinjaDino", "updated": "2026-05-19T03:21:44+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tgrffo/how_a_fake_29_refundable_exam_fee_turned_into_a/omlsfdn/", "content": "Back in my day, the scam was littering the campus with flyers for $16-$25/hr no experience ambiguous just phone number. This was pre-Google and the best you could get was $7/hr Costco. They lure you to a downtown office address and won't answer any questions over phone or front desk. I hadn't been subjected to MLM before so that wasn't even my suspicion and this wasn't even that really. It probably was if you got past the first level. Anyway they make you get setup for orientation. It was just me and another lady. They start presenting cooking knives, blah blah. They basically wanted you to be a door to door sales man (online media wasn't even a thing back then). They even insulted my outfit and trusted that I have a suit at home. I walked out of there ASAP. The other lady was super interested.\n I find out years later that one of my high school classmates worked for them for years. I guess she had the drive to seek out people to sell to. That's so cringy to me. First I would think your immediate friends and family would lose all respect for you if you tried to pawn off some commission based commodity. Then you are cold calling/knocking after that.\n I felt already victimized in middle school when you could earn a clock radio by selling 50 magazine subscriptions. I did that shit with a naive brain. Can't believe my parents didn't see the harm in free child labor and have PTA storm the district for allowing this scam to happen. I guess this just slid through in the early 90's. I guess they look at it like girl scout cookies. At least with that, the parent is doing half or more of the work. This magazine soliciting was 100% unsupervised and exploiting subscribers weakness to kids doing a "fundraiser" (for millionaires)." }, { "id": "t1_omm7icg", "author": "/u/-podesta", "updated": "2026-05-19T05:05:16+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tgrffo/how_a_fake_29_refundable_exam_fee_turned_into_a/omm7icg/", "content": "I went in for an interview with that company. What really pissed me off is they were going by the name Vector Marketing and I was a marketing major at the time so imagine my surprise when I get there and have to sit through a sales pitch for knives lmfao. Also they had us sit in a waiting room for like an hour and a half filling out a form and one of the first things they asked for was for a list of 5-10 friends or family that they can reach out to! That was the first red flag for me, and I should’ve left then lol, I just put a bunch of fake numbers instead, sat through the stupid knives presentation and left as soon as I could 😖" }, { "id": "t1_omnqxeo", "author": "/u/WorkerSome7813", "updated": "2026-05-19T12:28:19+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tgrffo/how_a_fake_29_refundable_exam_fee_turned_into_a/omnqxeo/", "content": "It’s wild how they took that exact 90s flyer scam and just digitized it for today" }, { "id": "t1_omluief", "author": "/u/21acct_erp", "updated": "2026-05-19T03:34:47+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tgrffo/how_a_fake_29_refundable_exam_fee_turned_into_a/omluief/", "content": "In all honesty if a place that is supposed to pay me even asks me for $1 . I’m out . That’s not how it works" }, { "id": "t1_omj0baa", "author": "/u/wwwSTEALTHYcom", "updated": "2026-05-18T18:24:04+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tgrffo/how_a_fake_29_refundable_exam_fee_turned_into_a/omj0baa/", "content": "How did they have a physical location? Seems that would make it easier to catch them despite them leaving. There would have to be some sort of trail left behind I would think." }, { "id": "t1_on2dst0", "author": "/u/Haytrusser", "updated": "2026-05-21T14:41:59+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tgrffo/how_a_fake_29_refundable_exam_fee_turned_into_a/on2dst0/", "content": "There are a million vacant spaces in commercial buildings. For $1000 cash I can get a desperate landlord to let me have a storefront or office for a week or two because I need to interview for WFH jobs. I don’t tear the place up. He gets a grand and can still show the place. I take in $100 an hour for a week and a half then move on to Tulsa. Or Amarillo. Or Denver." }, { "id": "t1_omkbzra", "author": "/u/artudetu12", "updated": "2026-05-18T22:19:30+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tgrffo/how_a_fake_29_refundable_exam_fee_turned_into_a/omkbzra/", "content": "Perhaps if you report your findings to the police they might look at it differently than looking at a single $29." }, { "id": "t1_on4ognd", "author": "/u/TheEquinePenguin", "updated": "2026-05-21T20:58:23+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tgrffo/how_a_fake_29_refundable_exam_fee_turned_into_a/on4ognd/", "content": "Welcome to rental application fees. There’s legal fraud happening all the time." }, { "id": "t1_omit202", "author": "/u/Specialist_Oil2935", "updated": "2026-05-18T17:41:00+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tgrffo/how_a_fake_29_refundable_exam_fee_turned_into_a/omit202/", "content": "I received a similar request, and I was not quite convinced that I must pay for screening test papers, so I didn't pay for them. Looks like it's larger than what I thought it was" }, { "id": "t1_omj8ebm", "author": "/u/schmerb_attack", "updated": "2026-05-18T19:04:40+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tgrffo/how_a_fake_29_refundable_exam_fee_turned_into_a/omj8ebm/", "content": "fucking brilliant" }, { "id": "t1_omjcfln", "author": "/u/Busy-Cattle430", "updated": "2026-05-18T19:25:42+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tgrffo/how_a_fake_29_refundable_exam_fee_turned_into_a/omjcfln/", "content": "Whenever I see stuff like this happen it reminds me of that episode from Numbers where someone stole like $2mil or something by transferring like $2 out of 200k accounts or something so it wasn't as noticeable and small amounts no one would really bother over." }, { "id": "t1_omkimm5", "author": "/u/Ok_Nerve8079", "updated": "2026-05-18T22:57:24+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tgrffo/how_a_fake_29_refundable_exam_fee_turned_into_a/omkimm5/", "content": "I got scammed through the penny saver when I was younger. It was an ad about starting your own advertisement business. I sent in the $45 check to get the start up materials. What came in the mail was a photo copy of the exact ad I responded to and how to list an ad in the penny saver. I look back and kinda love it now." }, { "id": "t1_omklanb", "author": "/u/ladyp33", "updated": "2026-05-18T23:12:50+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tgrffo/how_a_fake_29_refundable_exam_fee_turned_into_a/omklanb/", "content": "You have to be the lowest scam to steal from people who are trying to make an honest living without hurting anybody ." }, { "id": "t1_omlsen9", "author": "/u/AHU18EF7VAV22", "updated": "2026-05-19T03:21:36+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tgrffo/how_a_fake_29_refundable_exam_fee_turned_into_a/omlsen9/", "content": "Any job that requires me to pay them first is a scam. If they want me to pay THEM for paperwork, background check, uniform, anything. I'm turning around and leaving and reporting that business." }, { "id": "t1_omm6p4r", "author": "/u/thuanshelby", "updated": "2026-05-19T04:58:52+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tgrffo/how_a_fake_29_refundable_exam_fee_turned_into_a/omm6p4r/", "content": "but why the clickbait title though? I'm already tired of youtube and newspaper bro" }, { "id": "t1_ompqtnu", "author": "/u/xXLucifer-KingXx", "updated": "2026-05-19T18:05:50+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tgrffo/how_a_fake_29_refundable_exam_fee_turned_into_a/ompqtnu/", "content": "$29 is such a cursed number. Not low enough to ignore, not high enough to fight over. Pure evil pricing strategy" }, { "id": "t1_omrl80p", "author": "/u/Own_Personality_2224", "updated": "2026-05-19T23:22:27+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tgrffo/how_a_fake_29_refundable_exam_fee_turned_into_a/omrl80p/", "content": "You should write headlines for newspapers, blogs etc." }, { "id": "t1_omrswor", "author": "/u/Mblid", "updated": "2026-05-20T00:06:16+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tgrffo/how_a_fake_29_refundable_exam_fee_turned_into_a/omrswor/", "content": "Can i get a copy of that email tney sent to him? For "research" purposes." }, { "id": "t1_omwhie4", "author": "/u/ilovemycatsfurever", "updated": "2026-05-20T17:27:11+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tgrffo/how_a_fake_29_refundable_exam_fee_turned_into_a/omwhie4/", "content": "i still think it’s worth your brother putting together this data and presenting it to the police. it would help create a trail and possibly help innocent people recoup their money." }, { "id": "t1_omws4dj", "author": "/u/whenitrainsitpoursx3", "updated": "2026-05-20T18:14:11+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tgrffo/how_a_fake_29_refundable_exam_fee_turned_into_a/omws4dj/", "content": "Dang sounds like a class action lawsuit waiting to happen. But if there’s not enough of a paper trail because if they only took cash IDK" }, { "id": "t1_onmza0s", "author": "/u/NeuroticENTJ", "updated": "2026-05-24T17:27:11+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tgrffo/how_a_fake_29_refundable_exam_fee_turned_into_a/onmza0s/", "content": "When a job expects you to pay anything, it’s a red flag." }, { "id": "t1_omik19l", "author": "/u/35point1", "updated": "2026-05-18T16:58:18+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tgrffo/how_a_fake_29_refundable_exam_fee_turned_into_a/omik19l/", "content": "This whole story sounds like bullshit.\n 1800 people at a single school all looking for jobs and falling for the same one, yea that’s a huge pile of stinky bullshit right there." }, { "id": "t1_omikgrq", "author": "/u/WorkerSome7813", "updated": "2026-05-18T17:00:13+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tgrffo/how_a_fake_29_refundable_exam_fee_turned_into_a/omikgrq/", "content": "I never said they all went to the same school. It was a massive network of local student group chats across the city, so it spread everywhere during that week. Even in news paper..." }, { "id": "t1_omikvfn", "author": "/u/35point1", "updated": "2026-05-18T17:02:03+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tgrffo/how_a_fake_29_refundable_exam_fee_turned_into_a/omikvfn/", "content": "Ha, you think that makes it any more believable?\n 1800 victims in any city for a very specific type of job is just flat out not true." }, { "id": "t1_omilegh", "author": "/u/WorkerSome7813", "updated": "2026-05-18T17:04:26+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tgrffo/how_a_fake_29_refundable_exam_fee_turned_into_a/omilegh/", "content": "yeah, data entry isn't specific, it's the most common thing students search for.. And i m sure once in life everybody searched for it.." }, { "id": "t1_omilnow", "author": "/u/35point1", "updated": "2026-05-18T17:05:36+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tgrffo/how_a_fake_29_refundable_exam_fee_turned_into_a/omilnow/", "content": "Ok buddy I really don’t care" }, { "id": "t1_omim4h0", "author": "/u/WorkerSome7813", "updated": "2026-05-18T17:07:40+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tgrffo/how_a_fake_29_refundable_exam_fee_turned_into_a/omim4h0/", "content": "I posted this purely for awareness so other students don't get trapped by it....\n Whether you care or not doesn't really matter, as long as it helps someone else." }, { "id": "t1_omivk10", "author": "/u/Klutzy_Arm_7930", "updated": "2026-05-18T17:55:59+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tgrffo/how_a_fake_29_refundable_exam_fee_turned_into_a/omivk10/", "content": "Then stop replying" }, { "id": "t1_onbq0ky", "author": "/u/Inukchook", "updated": "2026-05-22T21:57:02+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tgrffo/how_a_fake_29_refundable_exam_fee_turned_into_a/onbq0ky/", "content": "How much dont you care ! I care so little i barely made this reply" }, { "id": "t1_omj6v4d", "author": "/u/_johnny_guitar_", "updated": "2026-05-18T18:57:03+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tgrffo/how_a_fake_29_refundable_exam_fee_turned_into_a/omj6v4d/", "content": "Also no way a scam like this has a physical office receiving cash. Totally fake." }, { "id": "t1_omku667", "author": "/u/Ok-Serve8127", "updated": "2026-05-19T00:04:11+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tgrffo/how_a_fake_29_refundable_exam_fee_turned_into_a/omku667/", "content": "Yeah ain’t no way, nope never has happened before, not possible … Pffffft this guy.. sheesh.." }, { "id": "t1_omiuftq", "author": "/u/fungbro2", "updated": "2026-05-18T17:49:09+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tgrffo/how_a_fake_29_refundable_exam_fee_turned_into_a/omiuftq/", "content": "FB Marketplace. "$10 to secure your item" *ghost*" }, { "id": "t1_onbqor3", "author": "/u/Inukchook", "updated": "2026-05-22T22:00:41+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tgrffo/how_a_fake_29_refundable_exam_fee_turned_into_a/onbqor3/", "content": "My wife found the perfect kitchen table for us "Honey look they want a deposit !" I said tell them ill drive there right now !\n Ghosted" }, { "id": "t1_omkmnb1", "author": "/u/zoppaTheDim", "updated": "2026-05-18T23:20:38+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tgrffo/how_a_fake_29_refundable_exam_fee_turned_into_a/omkmnb1/", "content": "Used to be the scam was to help you study for the postal exam." }, { "id": "t1_omldm36", "author": "/u/Acceptable_Sea_8674", "updated": "2026-05-19T01:55:31+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tgrffo/how_a_fake_29_refundable_exam_fee_turned_into_a/omldm36/", "content": "There was a company where I live advertising Comcast/DirecTV installer jobs. Big conference room meetings where you paid some kind of fee to get in, probably $20 or something small. Then they do the whole song and dance about placing you with whichever company you wanted. Here is where their scam become absolutely genius: either job required you to buy specific tools and equipment on the spot to secure your spot. I'm talking $800 scanners for satellite location, end to end cable testers, 100s of 6 ft HDMI cables, etc. Anybody want to guess what happened next? You slapped a Comcast or DirecTV magnet on the side of your truck and NEVER got a call. I had about 20 guys show up to my pawn shop about 10 days after the hiring event to sell all the crap they got ripped off buying." }, { "id": "t1_omlhh11", "author": "/u/CapitalShiftUSA", "updated": "2026-05-19T02:17:25+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tgrffo/how_a_fake_29_refundable_exam_fee_turned_into_a/omlhh11/", "content": "Most people focus on making more money. Smart people focus on keeping more of what they already make. That one shift changes everything."" }, { "id": "t1_omm95kw", "author": "/u/GroceryScanner", "updated": "2026-05-19T05:18:25+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tgrffo/how_a_fake_29_refundable_exam_fee_turned_into_a/omm95kw/", "content": "how did you get the 52,000 number? made it up?" }, { "id": "t1_omn21re", "author": "/u/Turbohand", "updated": "2026-05-19T09:32:18+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tgrffo/how_a_fake_29_refundable_exam_fee_turned_into_a/omn21re/", "content": "Open the schools." }, { "id": "t1_ommlwwh", "author": "/u/zipperdeedoodaa", "updated": "2026-05-19T07:05:19+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tgrffo/how_a_fake_29_refundable_exam_fee_turned_into_a/ommlwwh/", "content": "finally!! a good idea for passive income!" }, { "id": "t1_ommtwlm", "author": "/u/quandlespoulesauront", "updated": "2026-05-19T08:17:40+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tgrffo/how_a_fake_29_refundable_exam_fee_turned_into_a/ommtwlm/", "content": "Happened to me!Luckily I was able to get a refund , it was for a supposedly remote insurance job on indeed where you could make over $100k . Just pay us a fee for you to take the license exam" }, { "id": "t1_omnac92", "author": "/u/Miamiconnectionexo", "updated": "2026-05-19T10:40:13+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tgrffo/how_a_fake_29_refundable_exam_fee_turned_into_a/omnac92/", "content": "solid perspective. a lot of people overthink this but you laid it out simply." }, { "id": "t1_omnz0je", "author": "/u/ChaoticAmoebae", "updated": "2026-05-19T13:12:59+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tgrffo/how_a_fake_29_refundable_exam_fee_turned_into_a/omnz0je/", "content": "You can still report and doing it as a group would be best." }, { "id": "t1_omodx8i", "author": "/u/pdxjen", "updated": "2026-05-19T14:26:43+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tgrffo/how_a_fake_29_refundable_exam_fee_turned_into_a/omodx8i/", "content": "I was part of a gift card scam on Ebay about 25 years ago. A lady was selling gift cards for different stores at a discount, nothing huge, like $50 gift cards for $40, $25 for $15, etc. The seller had great reviews and I think she was legit for a little while, or she lost her way.\n I could have let it go, but it infuriated me. At the time you could see who had recently transacted with the seller who had not yet left feedback. I contacted the last 10 or so buyers and they were all in the same boat and Ebay and PayPal were not being helpful. I also contacted someone who left feedback, as a seller that was kind enough to share her name and address with me.\n I went to the police, she paid everyone back before it went anywhere and I was on the news." }, { "id": "t1_omoxj0k", "author": "/u/TwoStrokeJunkie", "updated": "2026-05-19T15:55:50+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tgrffo/how_a_fake_29_refundable_exam_fee_turned_into_a/omoxj0k/", "content": "Sounds something like the Worm Farm pyramid that’s been around for decades" }, { "id": "t1_omp72iu", "author": "/u/odineyed", "updated": "2026-05-19T16:39:28+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tgrffo/how_a_fake_29_refundable_exam_fee_turned_into_a/omp72iu/", "content": "Same things are being done to professional level job hunters. I just met one who was even willing to do a zoom call and probably used an AI face swap as she looks caucasian but with an indian set of english. 😅 The catch, you will pay them $150 to train you to ace client interviews. But there is more, you maybe interviewed by more than 1 client of them. So each prep is caching. I was all smiles on the call when she started telling this part and directly told her this sounds pretty much of a scam. What a waste of an AI pretty face. I checked in reddit and saw this was rampant for UK scam targeting mostly SE Asian trying their luck to UK. Heart breaking that this is how easy money is earned for others that can swallow this act. Life must have been unkind to them" }, { "id": "t1_omp7u4n", "author": "/u/itsjustjv", "updated": "2026-05-19T16:42:55+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tgrffo/how_a_fake_29_refundable_exam_fee_turned_into_a/omp7u4n/", "content": "Damn. How did they have him pay the fee? Might’ve been a red flag of it was like some kind of Cash App/money order" }, { "id": "t1_ompmu6k", "author": "/u/CarrotDeep2983", "updated": "2026-05-19T17:48:34+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tgrffo/how_a_fake_29_refundable_exam_fee_turned_into_a/ompmu6k/", "content": "The first scam was when the oldest profession came into existence lmcreating a fascim8le of value for something we could technically just take.\n Kinda like how a casino works.\n Too far im just kidding not a rape o" }, { "id": "t1_omr2297", "author": "/u/77stickman77", "updated": "2026-05-19T21:40:14+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tgrffo/how_a_fake_29_refundable_exam_fee_turned_into_a/omr2297/", "content": "Hello. Send me $29 and I can tell you how to spot and avoid scams like this" }, { "id": "t1_omrego3", "author": "/u/Sensate613", "updated": "2026-05-19T22:45:10+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tgrffo/how_a_fake_29_refundable_exam_fee_turned_into_a/omrego3/", "content": "I'm happy for all of them. $29 is a very cheap price for a lesson learned. Very very cheap. Hopefully it will save them from the $2000 scam." }, { "id": "t1_oms13fn", "author": "/u/htxPhased", "updated": "2026-05-20T00:53:16+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tgrffo/how_a_fake_29_refundable_exam_fee_turned_into_a/oms13fn/", "content": "What city/country was this?" }, { "id": "t1_oms8i9t", "author": "/u/MickeyOliver2024", "updated": "2026-05-20T01:35:35+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tgrffo/how_a_fake_29_refundable_exam_fee_turned_into_a/oms8i9t/", "content": "You don’t need to pay to get paid. Red Flag. “If we don’t pick you we will give you the money back”. So, if I get the job you keep the money. That makes no sense. People chasing easy money get scammed like this." }, { "id": "t1_omt9h0s", "author": "/u/Salty-Specific-1097", "updated": "2026-05-20T05:37:43+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tgrffo/how_a_fake_29_refundable_exam_fee_turned_into_a/omt9h0s/", "content": "I remember in middle school, just before a long break a classmate was going around asking other students for a dollar. She asked me and I said sorry, I don’t have anything (rarely ever got an allowance or had change on me). But I did see her asking other kids and she would pocket the dollar. Idk how much money she had by the end of the school day but I clearly remember the wad of dollar bills in her backpack. Over break, everyone forgot about the dollar." }, { "id": "t1_omu3y7b", "author": "/u/Interrupshin", "updated": "2026-05-20T10:00:52+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tgrffo/how_a_fake_29_refundable_exam_fee_turned_into_a/omu3y7b/", "content": "How did they take the payment? Cash app, credit card?" }, { "id": "t1_omy5nix", "author": "/u/CoupleFull5141", "updated": "2026-05-20T22:15:29+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tgrffo/how_a_fake_29_refundable_exam_fee_turned_into_a/omy5nix/", "content": "Damn im in the wrong business" }, { "id": "t1_omyfld7", "author": "/u/Roastedtoastedghost", "updated": "2026-05-20T23:12:35+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tgrffo/how_a_fake_29_refundable_exam_fee_turned_into_a/omyfld7/", "content": "I got approached at Target by someone trying to run this scam I think. He was in a button up and slacks and tried to make small talk about mattresses as we were in the mattress aisle. Once I said I wasn’t interested in making passive income he turned around and left FAST. Mad that he stole 15 min of my time though." }, { "id": "t1_omyqbkx", "author": "/u/BigMcLargehugest", "updated": "2026-05-21T00:14:31+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tgrffo/how_a_fake_29_refundable_exam_fee_turned_into_a/omyqbkx/", "content": "People been playing this game with rental applications for a while now." }, { "id": "t1_omyz7hz", "author": "/u/Leading_Junket656", "updated": "2026-05-21T01:05:29+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tgrffo/how_a_fake_29_refundable_exam_fee_turned_into_a/omyz7hz/", "content": "[ Removed by Reddit ]" }, { "id": "t1_omzlrhb", "author": "/u/No-Description6818", "updated": "2026-05-21T03:11:21+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tgrffo/how_a_fake_29_refundable_exam_fee_turned_into_a/omzlrhb/", "content": "this is the same way "influencers" steal from people with their white labeled "courses" that dont promise results." }, { "id": "t1_omzwadz", "author": "/u/MountainAnxious4606", "updated": "2026-05-21T04:20:37+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tgrffo/how_a_fake_29_refundable_exam_fee_turned_into_a/omzwadz/", "content": "how do ppl fall for this? im so skeptical of everything that when i had real recruiters reaching out to me from a real employer i accused them of scamming because one of the recruiters for some reason couldn't call my cell so he had his colleague follow up with me and they were indian lol but i accused them of being scammers and it turned out to be a real interview - i felt so bad after but cmon can u blame me these days?!" }, { "id": "t1_omzwlbm", "author": "/u/MountainAnxious4606", "updated": "2026-05-21T04:22:44+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tgrffo/how_a_fake_29_refundable_exam_fee_turned_into_a/omzwlbm/", "content": "sad though how many ppl need work and these fuckers are out scamming - POS scumbags" }, { "id": "t1_on1aju3", "author": "/u/focorsi", "updated": "2026-05-21T11:12:00+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tgrffo/how_a_fake_29_refundable_exam_fee_turned_into_a/on1aju3/", "content": "the "$29 is too small to report" psychology is exactly what makes it scale. They`re not robbing one person, they`re running a volume game on shame." }, { "id": "t1_on1xfvp", "author": "/u/Resetion", "updated": "2026-05-21T13:23:41+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tgrffo/how_a_fake_29_refundable_exam_fee_turned_into_a/on1xfvp/", "content": "And still less embarrassing than me paying for LinkedIn Premium every month for "the edge" it gives me 🤡" }, { "id": "t1_on2cklm", "author": "/u/Puzzleheaded_Run_845", "updated": "2026-05-21T14:36:17+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tgrffo/how_a_fake_29_refundable_exam_fee_turned_into_a/on2cklm/", "content": "that’s honestly messed up. the worst part is they knew most people wouldn’t report losing $29, so they just kept repeating it at scale." }, { "id": "t1_on3avi6", "author": "/u/Kratosbeatsbatman", "updated": "2026-05-21T17:10:32+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tgrffo/how_a_fake_29_refundable_exam_fee_turned_into_a/on3avi6/", "content": "Horrible people, but kinda smart.... anyone need a side job? Only 27$ to take the test, refunded if you dont get the job" }, { "id": "t1_on5wb5d", "author": "/u/ZappyYapper69", "updated": "2026-05-22T01:03:35+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tgrffo/how_a_fake_29_refundable_exam_fee_turned_into_a/on5wb5d/", "content": "[ Removed by Reddit ]" }, { "id": "t1_on7mrqc", "author": "/u/ABDULKALAM_497", "updated": "2026-05-22T08:47:54+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tgrffo/how_a_fake_29_refundable_exam_fee_turned_into_a/on7mrqc/", "content": "Any fee to apply for a job is a scam, the amount is irrelevant. Real employers pay you, not the other way around." }, { "id": "t1_on8smt8", "author": "/u/MIHAc27", "updated": "2026-05-22T13:29:54+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tgrffo/how_a_fake_29_refundable_exam_fee_turned_into_a/on8smt8/", "content": "Never pay to make money. it's a simple rule.\n Another one: if you never invested (in bitcoins, nft,..) if anyone tells you you have such funds... obvious scammer." }, { "id": "t1_onbqd2z", "author": "/u/Inukchook", "updated": "2026-05-22T21:58:55+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tgrffo/how_a_fake_29_refundable_exam_fee_turned_into_a/onbqd2z/", "content": "My dad got acammed like this years ago by someone claiming to be microsoft and that he had virus on his computer He even called back to talk to the same guy the second day Seemed legit to him They got their 70$ and gone" }, { "id": "t1_ontm9y3", "author": "/u/Hot_Dog_6", "updated": "2026-05-25T17:32:54+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tgrffo/how_a_fake_29_refundable_exam_fee_turned_into_a/ontm9y3/", "content": "Why do people still fall for this?" }, { "id": "t1_onvhuhh", "author": "/u/kingkled_0w0", "updated": "2026-05-25T23:16:31+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tgrffo/how_a_fake_29_refundable_exam_fee_turned_into_a/onvhuhh/", "content": "This is a classic bait-and-switch scam pattern where the small refundable fee is used to lower suspicion and scale up victims, because the real profit comes from volume, not individual amounts." }, { "id": "t1_onvnp6z", "author": "/u/CoursePotential9296", "updated": "2026-05-25T23:50:28+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tgrffo/how_a_fake_29_refundable_exam_fee_turned_into_a/onvnp6z/", "content": "The $29 price point is genius in the worst way. Too small to report, too embarrassing to share. They scaled a micro-scam into $52k in a week. The rule is simple: legitimate opportunities never ask you to pay to get hired. If money flows toward you, it's real. If money flows away from you first, walk away. Sorry your brother went through that." }, { "id": "t1_ookc2t0", "author": "/u/sam_narulaaa", "updated": "2026-05-29T13:10:47+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tgrffo/how_a_fake_29_refundable_exam_fee_turned_into_a/ookc2t0/", "content": "This is exactly why these scams keep working. The amount is small enough that people feel embarrassed instead of angry, so nobody reports it and the scammers can repeat the same playbook city after city. They are basically running a volume business model on desperation.\n The craziest part is how professional these setups look now. Temporary office, LinkedIn ads, fake HR process, “refundable” fee, delayed paperwork, all designed to lower your guard slowly. A real employer pays you, not the other way around. The second a job asks for money upfront, even if it sounds tiny or refundable, that should be the end of the conversation." }, { "id": "t1_op1xf8s", "author": "/u/UNLEASHER12", "updated": "2026-06-01T02:09:43+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tgrffo/how_a_fake_29_refundable_exam_fee_turned_into_a/op1xf8s/", "content": "Hmm yeah, in a perfect world that sounds great, but they definitely used fake names and cash to rent the space," }, { "id": "t1_opeeec0", "author": "/u/Key_Possession5738", "updated": "2026-06-02T21:44:37+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tgrffo/how_a_fake_29_refundable_exam_fee_turned_into_a/opeeec0/", "content": "The way the title is, i thought some company scammed you of 29$ so you sued them and got 52000$ 😭😭😭" }, { "id": "t1_omksnuv", "author": "/u/goodbye_goodriddance", "updated": "2026-05-18T23:55:26+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tgrffo/how_a_fake_29_refundable_exam_fee_turned_into_a/omksnuv/", "content": "My girlfriend is so desperate for me to work for home she tries to get me to apply for these scams lol she thinks I don’t want to work from home because she doesn’t believe they are scams!" }, { "id": "t1_omk7bu9", "author": "/u/Educational_Exam_225", "updated": "2026-05-18T21:53:50+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tgrffo/how_a_fake_29_refundable_exam_fee_turned_into_a/omk7bu9/", "content": "So you told AI to add linguistic quirks like "ummm yeah" and it went overboard, huh" } ] }, { "source": "r/passive_income top month", "id": "t3_1tm3xmk", "title": "my most \"passive\" income is from something that took 3 days to build and i check maybe twice a week", "author": "/u/ScaryAd2555", "updated": "2026-05-24T06:14:32+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tm3xmk/my_most_passive_income_is_from_something_that/", "content": "i hate the way passive income gets talked about online so let me be upfront. nothing is zero effort. this thing took real time to build and occasional time to maintain. but the ongoing effort is genuinely minimal and its made me about $4,200 over 6 months so im posting about it.\n i own a small short term rental. one flat in pune, listed on airbnb and booking.com. the part i hated was guest communication. check in instructions, wifi passwords, recommendations for nearby restaurants, the same 14 questions every guest asks, the random midnight "how do i turn on the geyser" message.\n i was spending maybe 45 minutes a day on messages. felt small until i added it up: 45 mins x 30 days x 12 months = 270 hours a year of my life answering "where should i eat near the flat."\n i built a whatsapp agent that handles all of it. when a booking confirms, it automatically messages the guest from a number saved in their phone as the property name. sends check in instructions 24 hours before arrival, a welcome message when they check in, a mid-stay check in on day 2, and a checkout reminder. handles all the common questions from a knowledge base i spent one afternoon building. only escalates to me if it gets something it genuinely cant answer, which is maybe 2-3 times a month.\n the revenue part: i stopped discounting for "quick response" pressure. when you respond to every message within 5 minutes automatically, you maintain superhost status without thinking about it. superhost status on airbnb correlates with about 18% higher nightly rates according to various studies. my average nightly went from 2800rs to 3300rs after i hit superhost consistently. over 6 months thats the extra 4200 im talking about. the agent didnt directly make money. it made me the kind of host that commands a higher rate.\n ongoing effort: i check the escalated messages twice a week. refresh the knowledge base when something changes about the property. maybe 30 minutes total a week.\n the build: claude sonnet for the conversation, airtable as the knowledge base (so my wife can update it herself), photon codes for the whatsapp integration, and a zapier zap that triggers the first message when a booking confirms. total monthly cost is about 1100 rupees.\n i know 4200 over 6 months is not "quit your job" money. but i also own a flat and was going to manage it regardless. this is 270 hours of my life back plus extra income. thats the honest version of passive income.\n submitted by /u/ScaryAd2555\n [link] [comments]", "contentHtml": "

i hate the way passive income gets talked about online so let me be upfront. nothing is zero effort. this thing took real time to build and occasional time to maintain. but the ongoing effort is genuinely minimal and its made me about $4,200 over 6 months so im posting about it.

i own a small short term rental. one flat in pune, listed on airbnb and booking.com. the part i hated was guest communication. check in instructions, wifi passwords, recommendations for nearby restaurants, the same 14 questions every guest asks, the random midnight "how do i turn on the geyser" message.

i was spending maybe 45 minutes a day on messages. felt small until i added it up: 45 mins x 30 days x 12 months = 270 hours a year of my life answering "where should i eat near the flat."

i built a whatsapp agent that handles all of it. when a booking confirms, it automatically messages the guest from a number saved in their phone as the property name. sends check in instructions 24 hours before arrival, a welcome message when they check in, a mid-stay check in on day 2, and a checkout reminder. handles all the common questions from a knowledge base i spent one afternoon building. only escalates to me if it gets something it genuinely cant answer, which is maybe 2-3 times a month.

the revenue part: i stopped discounting for "quick response" pressure. when you respond to every message within 5 minutes automatically, you maintain superhost status without thinking about it. superhost status on airbnb correlates with about 18% higher nightly rates according to various studies. my average nightly went from 2800rs to 3300rs after i hit superhost consistently. over 6 months thats the extra 4200 im talking about. the agent didnt directly make money. it made me the kind of host that commands a higher rate.

ongoing effort: i check the escalated messages twice a week. refresh the knowledge base when something changes about the property. maybe 30 minutes total a week.

the build: claude sonnet for the conversation, airtable as the knowledge base (so my wife can update it herself), photon codes for the whatsapp integration, and a zapier zap that triggers the first message when a booking confirms. total monthly cost is about 1100 rupees.

i know 4200 over 6 months is not "quit your job" money. but i also own a flat and was going to manage it regardless. this is 270 hours of my life back plus extra income. thats the honest version of passive income.

submitted by /u/ScaryAd2555
[link] [comments]", "comments": [ { "id": "t1_onk3ngi", "author": "/u/AutoModerator", "updated": "2026-05-24T06:14:32+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tm3xmk/my_most_passive_income_is_from_something_that/onk3ngi/", "content": "Check out the Community Highlights for current and future Mod Vetted opportunities and Newsletter Episodes.\n Please do due diligence on any crypto opportunity. A simple google search could save you a fortune.\n I am a bot, and this action was performed automatically. Please contact the moderators of this subreddit if you have any questions or concerns." }, { "id": "t1_onkczic", "author": "/u/Davidat0r", "updated": "2026-05-24T07:35:51+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tm3xmk/my_most_passive_income_is_from_something_that/onkczic/", "content": "Just curious: why don’t you create an information sheet with the most common questions and send it to guests after they book? That’s what I do, and I’m also a superhost." }, { "id": "t1_onkhv11", "author": "/u/No_Cheek7162", "updated": "2026-05-24T08:19:24+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tm3xmk/my_most_passive_income_is_from_something_that/onkhv11/", "content": "People can't read" }, { "id": "t1_onkrno2", "author": "/u/Davidat0r", "updated": "2026-05-24T09:49:33+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tm3xmk/my_most_passive_income_is_from_something_that/onkrno2/", "content": "I guess I get the guests who can" }, { "id": "t1_onlb0uw", "author": "/u/Pretty-Syrup22", "updated": "2026-05-24T12:20:00+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tm3xmk/my_most_passive_income_is_from_something_that/onlb0uw/", "content": "Make a video or voice note or even a custom gpt" }, { "id": "t1_op35o5c", "author": "/u/Hopeful_Comedian7068", "updated": "2026-06-01T07:43:10+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tm3xmk/my_most_passive_income_is_from_something_that/op35o5c/", "content": "I know this you have to shove evrything to their face" }, { "id": "t1_onnd43t", "author": "/u/benefree", "updated": "2026-05-24T18:32:51+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tm3xmk/my_most_passive_income_is_from_something_that/onnd43t/", "content": "Because this is not an actual thing he made." }, { "id": "t1_onru4pk", "author": "/u/Ladyfox66", "updated": "2026-05-25T12:09:52+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tm3xmk/my_most_passive_income_is_from_something_that/onru4pk/", "content": "Where to eat where is the parking for an additional car cars can they check out late or check in early is the most common questions I get. 10 years on Airbnb platform as a Superhost." }, { "id": "t1_onvfz2s", "author": "/u/420FriendlyStranger", "updated": "2026-05-25T23:05:42+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tm3xmk/my_most_passive_income_is_from_something_that/onvfz2s/", "content": "The guests can't read the information already in the booking description in my experience..." }, { "id": "t1_onxzuqk", "author": "/u/Davidat0r", "updated": "2026-05-26T09:55:21+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tm3xmk/my_most_passive_income_is_from_something_that/onxzuqk/", "content": "Yeah but they aaaalways ask. That’s why I created that info sheet that I email them plus they get a laminated copy in the apartment. That cut 95% of the questions" }, { "id": "t1_onka3gs", "author": "/u/Soumyar-Tripathy", "updated": "2026-05-24T07:10:23+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tm3xmk/my_most_passive_income_is_from_something_that/onka3gs/", "content": "This is precisely the kind of post that this subreddit requires. While there are many posts about passive income, most of them are just pure fiction. This is an actual business setup. It doesn’t really matter if you use AI or not. What’s important is that your wife will be able to handle updates without having to touch the code due to your choice of Airtable for your knowledge base. This is an absolute genius approach when it comes to systems design. Not only did you manage to automate some routine, but also you freed yourself from being tied to this process in terms of time management while giving yourself a raise at the same time due to the guarantee of response within 5 minutes required for Superhost status." }, { "id": "t1_onrhlyw", "author": "/u/Nuronu08", "updated": "2026-05-25T10:41:11+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tm3xmk/my_most_passive_income_is_from_something_that/onrhlyw/", "content": "Folks around reddit lose their fuxking mind when I state my "passive" income is growing trees.\n The cost per tree is moot (I grow from seed )\n All the time that goes into it... minutes a month at best. The real breakdown comes to around 400/hr profit. Downside, you can't work unlimited hours" }, { "id": "t1_onsolpt", "author": "/u/7457431095", "updated": "2026-05-25T14:53:39+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tm3xmk/my_most_passive_income_is_from_something_that/onsolpt/", "content": "That is actually the funniest thing I've read all day. Absolutely brilliant" }, { "id": "t1_onu7lao", "author": "/u/WarmheartedRecoil", "updated": "2026-05-25T19:14:54+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tm3xmk/my_most_passive_income_is_from_something_that/onu7lao/", "content": "Wow great ad for Airtable. Good job robot! Keep pretending to be human to push your corporate trash." }, { "id": "t1_ooi29q6", "author": "/u/Nuronu08", "updated": "2026-05-29T03:22:15+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tm3xmk/my_most_passive_income_is_from_something_that/ooi29q6/", "content": "I just recently started taking Sakura blossom cuts and cloning them. Figure after costs each tree runs around 1.25\n I'll take 30. By next spring they will be large enough to sell as house plants for 40 bucks a pop.\n This is just part of the side hustle. The minute I have enough cash to buy a permit to grow weed I'll be a happy man." }, { "id": "t1_onknl0c", "author": "/u/Plcoomer", "updated": "2026-05-24T09:11:40+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tm3xmk/my_most_passive_income_is_from_something_that/onknl0c/", "content": "The worst part is the “not passive” cleaning after the guests leave. Not communicating" }, { "id": "t1_onkq8b1", "author": "/u/haileyunknown", "updated": "2026-05-24T09:36:26+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tm3xmk/my_most_passive_income_is_from_something_that/onkq8b1/", "content": "Hire a cleaner" }, { "id": "t1_onnn4cl", "author": "/u/Plcoomer", "updated": "2026-05-24T19:22:21+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tm3xmk/my_most_passive_income_is_from_something_that/onnn4cl/", "content": "Ohh you assumed we don’t" }, { "id": "t1_onkq1tl", "author": "/u/haileyunknown", "updated": "2026-05-24T09:34:43+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tm3xmk/my_most_passive_income_is_from_something_that/onkq1tl/", "content": "Used to own Airbnb I left them a sheet with all common questions including the passwords took maybe 5 mins an Airbnb logo and a chat gbt paragraph explaining that no one ever contacted except to extend their stay" }, { "id": "t1_onkq5ia", "author": "/u/haileyunknown", "updated": "2026-05-24T09:35:42+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tm3xmk/my_most_passive_income_is_from_something_that/onkq5ia/", "content": "I laminated the sheet and made sure that’s what they saw first thing when they walked in" }, { "id": "t1_onlalfb", "author": "/u/DaddyChris0205", "updated": "2026-05-24T12:17:10+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tm3xmk/my_most_passive_income_is_from_something_that/onlalfb/", "content": "So you spend 1100 a month for this and have made 4200 over 6 months, by my math that’s 800 a month in income. So you’re operating at a net loss of 300 a month. Explain to me how that’s passive income? You’re losing money month over month." }, { "id": "t1_onmmr61", "author": "/u/willdallas2020", "updated": "2026-05-24T16:29:37+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tm3xmk/my_most_passive_income_is_from_something_that/onmmr61/", "content": "He switched currencies in the middle of the post. The 4200 is in freedom dollars. The 1100 is in rupees. 1100 rupees is only $11." }, { "id": "t1_onoklte", "author": "/u/hamfuncpl", "updated": "2026-05-24T22:15:03+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tm3xmk/my_most_passive_income_is_from_something_that/onoklte/", "content": "Freedom dollars..\n Lol" }, { "id": "t1_oo89zaw", "author": "/u/Mudskipper102", "updated": "2026-05-27T19:10:13+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tm3xmk/my_most_passive_income_is_from_something_that/oo89zaw/", "content": "Well…. The more you have the more freedom you have, right?" }, { "id": "t1_onyz72y", "author": "/u/Such_Personality_803", "updated": "2026-05-26T13:39:32+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tm3xmk/my_most_passive_income_is_from_something_that/onyz72y/", "content": "Lol" }, { "id": "t1_oogq2mk", "author": "/u/FrozenMonster1201", "updated": "2026-05-28T22:48:56+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tm3xmk/my_most_passive_income_is_from_something_that/oogq2mk/", "content": "4200 over 6 months, it is 700 a month, and it is a net loss of 400 a month" }, { "id": "t1_oogt2ks", "author": "/u/DaddyChris0205", "updated": "2026-05-28T23:05:14+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tm3xmk/my_most_passive_income_is_from_something_that/oogt2ks/", "content": "Yes… ufff… bad math day here. Thanks for the correction." }, { "id": "t1_oogxfl2", "author": "/u/FrozenMonster1201", "updated": "2026-05-28T23:29:01+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tm3xmk/my_most_passive_income_is_from_something_that/oogxfl2/", "content": "not trying to be a smart ass, but just agreeing your point of view. 😛" }, { "id": "t1_onkmnud", "author": "/u/AssiyaSoSo", "updated": "2026-05-24T09:03:13+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tm3xmk/my_most_passive_income_is_from_something_that/onkmnud/", "content": "I have built similar, but mine is geo-located & acts as a local guide, like when the guest asks "whats the best Chinese food nearby" to finding the closest train station, or ATM. It also gives the host opportunity to earn commission using nearby businesses in the recommendations, like when the guest asks about day trips & tours, or general restaurant recommendations, this is another layer of opportunity." }, { "id": "t1_onlzlqz", "author": "/u/Willingfool", "updated": "2026-05-24T14:38:40+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tm3xmk/my_most_passive_income_is_from_something_that/onlzlqz/", "content": "We used Booking over 45 times last year for unique non- hotel stays. We would be your hypothetical clients. What we needed was a canned response immediately after booking as confirmation. Just an ok you’re booked. 24 hours before- reminder of booking and any pertinent direction details. Day of stay -give me the door code early so I don’t have to wonder. Directions to the key if it’s with the bartender or what have you. That’s it. So many just can’t seem to do this. So thanks." }, { "id": "t1_onmopp2", "author": "/u/Satisfaction_Fuzzy", "updated": "2026-05-24T16:38:52+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tm3xmk/my_most_passive_income_is_from_something_that/onmopp2/", "content": "What is a geyser in this context!? Your apartment has a geyser? I’m gushing at the possibilities." }, { "id": "t1_onzy4qc", "author": "/u/fucktheretardunits", "updated": "2026-05-26T16:20:26+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tm3xmk/my_most_passive_income_is_from_something_that/onzy4qc/", "content": "In India, a bathroom water heater is called a geyser. Newer ones look like this: https://thumbs.dreamstime.com/b/home-electric-gas-water-heater-bathroom-home-electric-gas-water-heater-bathroom-geyser-116280818.jpg\n Most of us grew up with this: https://tiimg.tistatic.com/fp/2/005/970/bathroom-geyser-738.jpg" }, { "id": "t1_op35qz3", "author": "/u/Hopeful_Comedian7068", "updated": "2026-06-01T07:43:52+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tm3xmk/my_most_passive_income_is_from_something_that/op35qz3/", "content": "Man it's nothing more than a water heater 😂" }, { "id": "t1_onkjvt5", "author": "/u/Ok-Neighborhood-566", "updated": "2026-05-24T08:37:59+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tm3xmk/my_most_passive_income_is_from_something_that/onkjvt5/", "content": "How do you build a WhatsApp agent?" }, { "id": "t1_onmptfd", "author": "/u/bdubbber", "updated": "2026-05-24T16:44:03+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tm3xmk/my_most_passive_income_is_from_something_that/onmptfd/", "content": "He gave you the keys\n “the build: claude sonnet for the conversation, airtable as the knowledge base (so my wife can update it herself), photon codes for the whatsapp integration, and a zapier zap that triggers the first message when a booking confirms. total monthly cost is about 1100 rupees.”" }, { "id": "t1_onl5qcc", "author": "/u/LowEnergyToday", "updated": "2026-05-24T11:43:51+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tm3xmk/my_most_passive_income_is_from_something_that/onl5qcc/", "content": "this is actually a really solid example of what “passive” realistically looks like in practice. it’s not zero effort, it’s just shifting the effort upfront and reducing the ongoing mental load a lot. also the superhost consistency angle is underrated, a lot of people lose money just from slow or inconsistent response times without realizing it." }, { "id": "t1_onlax2p", "author": "/u/DaddyChris0205", "updated": "2026-05-24T12:19:19+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tm3xmk/my_most_passive_income_is_from_something_that/onlax2p/", "content": "How is this passive income? Why is no one doing the math? They’re operating at a loss of 300 rupees per month. Explain how this is income?" }, { "id": "t1_onpxzmp", "author": "/u/softwarebloke", "updated": "2026-05-25T03:10:46+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tm3xmk/my_most_passive_income_is_from_something_that/onpxzmp/", "content": "Ok, so first step is have property that you can rent out via Airbnb…got it. I’ll be stuck on that step for a while" }, { "id": "t1_onp5gjm", "author": "/u/Wonderful_Shame_4986", "updated": "2026-05-25T00:18:09+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tm3xmk/my_most_passive_income_is_from_something_that/onp5gjm/", "content": "Well that went right over my head." }, { "id": "t1_op35tpp", "author": "/u/Hopeful_Comedian7068", "updated": "2026-06-01T07:44:34+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tm3xmk/my_most_passive_income_is_from_something_that/op35tpp/", "content": "Same thing for me all I am doing is reading the comments to understand and still didn't get anything" }, { "id": "t1_onrh4ro", "author": "/u/Nuronu08", "updated": "2026-05-25T10:37:25+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tm3xmk/my_most_passive_income_is_from_something_that/onrh4ro/", "content": "My passive income has been letting trees grow.\n When I break down the profit. It's around 400/hr. On a half acre...for god damn Christmas trees 😅" }, { "id": "t1_onktnrm", "author": "/u/vvkvjn", "updated": "2026-05-24T10:07:19+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tm3xmk/my_most_passive_income_is_from_something_that/onktnrm/", "content": "How can I build a similar agent ? Can you give me a direction. I know little bit of coding though." }, { "id": "t1_onvi47z", "author": "/u/kingkled_0w0", "updated": "2026-05-25T23:18:05+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tm3xmk/my_most_passive_income_is_from_something_that/onvi47z/", "content": "The key takeaway is that small systems layered onto existing assets (like rentals) can meaningfully improve efficiency and pricing power even if they don’t create large standalone income." }, { "id": "t1_onlezp3", "author": "/u/gobhalla", "updated": "2026-05-24T12:45:18+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tm3xmk/my_most_passive_income_is_from_something_that/onlezp3/", "content": "Curious if you’ve tested layering in simple upsells (late checkout, airport pickup, partner restaurants) into the WhatsApp flows yet." }, { "id": "t1_onljvsl", "author": "/u/WinningMamma", "updated": "2026-05-24T13:14:15+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tm3xmk/my_most_passive_income_is_from_something_that/onljvsl/", "content": "Excellent" }, { "id": "t1_onp46wx", "author": "/u/TheGhost_Writer2026", "updated": "2026-05-25T00:10:21+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tm3xmk/my_most_passive_income_is_from_something_that/onp46wx/", "content": "❤️❤️❤️" }, { "id": "t1_onp89v2", "author": "/u/jwhit987", "updated": "2026-05-25T00:35:08+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tm3xmk/my_most_passive_income_is_from_something_that/onp89v2/", "content": "You have one place as a short-term rental and you’re spending 45 minutes a day on communication? I have two STRs in the US and I would consider there to be a major problem if I were spending 45 minutes each day on guest communication. I call BS on this and your estimate of annual time saved.\n My hunch is you’ve built this agent and you’re using this invented example as a way of trying to guerrilla market it here in this subreddit. I don’t fault you for trying, but I think you should be more transparent and do better research on your market before posting. If you had said five or more properties, then it could have been more believable. Does your agent handle communication across multiple properties? Or are you focusing on just one property because it’s limited in that sense?\n Also, you’re claiming the passive income is from an increased nightly rate due to better communication that led to super host status. What’s your pitch to hosts who are already super hosts with very high ratings? Your agent would save a host’s time and potentially yield a better guest experience, but increasing the nightly rate would feel more marginal in this scenario." }, { "id": "t1_onpmks4", "author": "/u/thing85", "updated": "2026-05-25T02:00:17+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tm3xmk/my_most_passive_income_is_from_something_that/onpmks4/", "content": "Even worse, I feel like OP has planted some replies on this post that happen to be highly upvoted. People saying things like “this is absolute genius” and other over-the-top compliments that don’t make sense." }, { "id": "t1_onpql7n", "author": "/u/Legitimate_Wear1666", "updated": "2026-05-25T02:24:33+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tm3xmk/my_most_passive_income_is_from_something_that/onpql7n/", "content": "Pune which society which location" }, { "id": "t1_onr9z00", "author": "/u/Jami_Martin", "updated": "2026-05-25T09:37:21+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tm3xmk/my_most_passive_income_is_from_something_that/onr9z00/", "content": "The real value here isn't the $4200, it`s the 270 hours back. Most passive income posts skip the time accounting entirely. This one actually did the math both ways." }, { "id": "t1_onrgmws", "author": "/u/heebijeeby", "updated": "2026-05-25T10:33:27+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tm3xmk/my_most_passive_income_is_from_something_that/onrgmws/", "content": "the 270 hour number hit different. i always tell myself "it's only 45 minutes" about like 6 different things and never actually do the math lol\n also the superhost angle is the real story here imo. you didn't automate guest messaging, you automated being a reliable host, which is a completely different thing. the 500rs jump in nightly rate is the proof.\n genuinely useful that you listed the actual tools and what it costs. most of these posts are either too vague to replicate or quietly trying to sell you a course.\n how did you set up the knowledge base in airtable? like is it just Q&A rows ? Be handy to see how I could use that kind of tool" }, { "id": "t1_onrtunu", "author": "/u/Ladyfox66", "updated": "2026-05-25T12:08:06+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tm3xmk/my_most_passive_income_is_from_something_that/onrtunu/", "content": "10 year Superhost here. You can make auto messages that understand what guests are asking and send a response for you. It’s totally free and only takes a couple minutes to set up. You can also add a guide to your listing what to do in or around your area the same free way." }, { "id": "t1_onx5wyz", "author": "/u/Freshsoil42", "updated": "2026-05-26T05:35:47+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tm3xmk/my_most_passive_income_is_from_something_that/onx5wyz/", "content": "I slept in a place that had this. It was terrible. The standard responses were lacking understanding of the nuances of the asked questions and the bot couldn't answer followup questions nor questions that it had not learned about. There was no immediate escalation path. So for a parking spot, we had to wait 24hours before someone got back to us and told us the street address where we could park. There were no written instructions in the appartment either, everything was online-only. Some things seem good and cool because they may make you more money, but actual customer experience should not be forgotten. Not saying you're forgetting that OP, and the place I stayed probably wasn't yours, just sharing my experience from the other side of this." }, { "id": "t1_onxlju7", "author": "/u/ifindoubt404", "updated": "2026-05-26T07:48:51+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tm3xmk/my_most_passive_income_is_from_something_that/onxlju7/", "content": "Photon does not seem to list WhatsApp messages (only as „coming soon“), so I am curious about that part" }, { "id": "t1_onyatyo", "author": "/u/Euphoric-Elephant-65", "updated": "2026-05-26T11:18:24+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tm3xmk/my_most_passive_income_is_from_something_that/onyatyo/", "content": "Hire me to manage guests for you" }, { "id": "t1_oo7ui1z", "author": "/u/kamra_vanshhh", "updated": "2026-05-27T18:03:04+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tm3xmk/my_most_passive_income_is_from_something_that/oo7ui1z/", "content": "This is honestly one of the most realistic “passive income” posts I’ve seen here because you’re describing automation, not fantasy. The interesting part isn’t even the extra ₹4,200, it’s getting 270 hours of your life back while improving the guest experience at the same time.\n Also the superhost point is huge. A lot of people underestimate how much consistency compounds on platforms like Airbnb. Faster replies, smoother check-ins, fewer annoyed guests, better reviews, slightly higher pricing power. Small operational improvements stack over time.\n Honestly feels less like passive income and more like building a tiny system that removes yourself as the bottleneck." }, { "id": "t1_oob1wg3", "author": "/u/Low-Temporary6640", "updated": "2026-05-28T03:53:10+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tm3xmk/my_most_passive_income_is_from_something_that/oob1wg3/", "content": "This is the most sane “passive income” post I’ve seen here in a while. You’re not selling a dream, you’re just showing how to turn an existing asset plus AI into more money and way fewer headaches.\n Also love that you quantified the 270 hours saved. People undervalue their time so hard, but that number makes it super obvious why this type of automation is worth it." }, { "id": "t1_oomfcok", "author": "/u/Sensitive-Role9289", "updated": "2026-05-29T18:46:25+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tm3xmk/my_most_passive_income_is_from_something_that/oomfcok/", "content": "[ Removed by Reddit ]" }, { "id": "t1_oomkt42", "author": "/u/ProAdviser93", "updated": "2026-05-29T19:11:06+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tm3xmk/my_most_passive_income_is_from_something_that/oomkt42/", "content": "This is a fake ad for Claude sonnet" }, { "id": "t1_oougwh9", "author": "/u/Ok_Reception_738", "updated": "2026-05-30T23:01:18+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tm3xmk/my_most_passive_income_is_from_something_that/oougwh9/", "content": "i tried solo mining xmr for 8 months on a 3070 and let me tell you the math is brutal. you are basically buying lottery tickets with your electricity bill. the network difficulty adjusts so a block is found every two minutes globally but with a few hundred kh/s from a gpu your expected time to find one is years not days. i used a probability calculator constantly and it always showed the same thing. you will likely never find a block and end up with zero revenue while burning cash on power. pool mining is better for consistency but margins are razor thin after hardware depreciation and electric costs. your whatsapp agent idea is actually way smarter because it has deterministic returns based on effort not probabilistic luck. you built something that scales without needing more time input which is real passive income. most people lose money mining or trading because they dont understand the odds. you avoided that trap by solving a real problem instead of chasing easy crypto gains" }, { "id": "t1_onmg53m", "author": "/u/whitebro2", "updated": "2026-05-24T15:58:29+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tm3xmk/my_most_passive_income_is_from_something_that/onmg53m/", "content": "Not enough income to live on." }, { "id": "t1_onmsfma", "author": "/u/lordofscottsdale", "updated": "2026-05-24T16:56:09+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tm3xmk/my_most_passive_income_is_from_something_that/onmsfma/", "content": "Yes" }, { "id": "t1_onvtcvh", "author": "/u/CoursePotential9296", "updated": "2026-05-26T00:23:49+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tm3xmk/my_most_passive_income_is_from_something_that/onvtcvh/", "content": "The framing here is underrated. You didn't build passive income, you automated the labor that was eating your margin. That's a more useful mental model than most of what gets posted here. The 270 hours math is the part people miss — small daily tasks look invisible until you annualize them. I do something similar with a digital product, the "passive" part isn't that it runs itself magically, it's that the setup work is done and the ongoing effort is disproportionately small relative to what it keeps generating. The superhost angle is smart too because you're not just saving time, you're unlocking a pricing tier that compounds. Curious how long the initial knowledge base took to build and whether you had to iterate a lot on the prompts before it stopped escalating dumb questions." }, { "id": "t1_onkhctc", "author": "/u/versaagency", "updated": "2026-05-24T08:14:49+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tm3xmk/my_most_passive_income_is_from_something_that/onkhctc/", "content": "dm me" }, { "id": "t1_onm0nl9", "author": "/u/tonipaz", "updated": "2026-05-24T14:44:01+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tm3xmk/my_most_passive_income_is_from_something_that/onm0nl9/", "content": "Loser shit" } ] }, { "source": "r/passive_income top month", "id": "t3_1tdna9m", "title": "14 months of digital products on Etsy. Real numbers, real talk.", "author": "/u/Devvirat", "updated": "2026-05-15T05:53:58+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tdna9m/14_months_of_digital_products_on_etsy_real/", "content": "I see a lot of "I made $10k my first month selling printables!" posts. Here's what 14 months actually looked like for me.\n Month 1: $0 (7 products listed)\n Month 2: $14 (someone bought a budget template)\n Month 3: $31\n Month 4: $67\n Month 5: $89\n Month 6: $143\n Month 7: $201\n Month 8: $178 (slump don't know why)\n Month 9: $267\n Month 10: $334\n Month 11: $412\n Month 12: $389\n Month 13: $501\n Month 14: $623\n Total: ~$3,349 over 14 months. Average $239/month.\n I now have 34 products. The top 5 products make up about 70% of revenue. The other 29 barely sell.\n Is this "passive"? Sort of. I spend maybe 3-4 hours a month updating listings, making new products, and answering questions. For $600/month that's fine. For "quit your job" money it's not there yet.\n What I'd do differently: I wasted time making products I thought were cool instead of researching what people were actually searching for. Keyword research first, design second. I learned this around month 6 and growth accelerated.\n Happy to answer questions if anyone's thinking about starting.\n submitted by /u/Devvirat\n [link] [comments]", "contentHtml": "

I see a lot of "I made $10k my first month selling printables!" posts. Here's what 14 months actually looked like for me.

Month 1: $0 (7 products listed)

Month 2: $14 (someone bought a budget template)

Month 3: $31

Month 4: $67

Month 5: $89

Month 6: $143

Month 7: $201

Month 8: $178 (slump don't know why)

Month 9: $267

Month 10: $334

Month 11: $412

Month 12: $389

Month 13: $501

Month 14: $623

Total: ~$3,349 over 14 months. Average $239/month.

I now have 34 products. The top 5 products make up about 70% of revenue. The other 29 barely sell.

Is this "passive"? Sort of. I spend maybe 3-4 hours a month updating listings, making new products, and answering questions. For $600/month that's fine. For "quit your job" money it's not there yet.

What I'd do differently: I wasted time making products I thought were cool instead of researching what people were actually searching for. Keyword research first, design second. I learned this around month 6 and growth accelerated.

Happy to answer questions if anyone's thinking about starting.

submitted by /u/Devvirat
[link] [comments]", "comments": [ { "id": "t1_olwefs0", "author": "/u/AutoModerator", "updated": "2026-05-15T05:53:58+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tdna9m/14_months_of_digital_products_on_etsy_real/olwefs0/", "content": "Check out the Community Highlights for current and future Mod Vetted opportunities and Newsletter Episodes.\n Please do due diligence on any crypto opportunity. A simple google search could save you a fortune.\n I am a bot, and this action was performed automatically. Please contact the moderators of this subreddit if you have any questions or concerns." }, { "id": "t1_olyzzdz", "author": "/u/ABDULKALAM_497", "updated": "2026-05-15T16:02:51+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tdna9m/14_months_of_digital_products_on_etsy_real/olyzzdz/", "content": "Honestly this is way more motivating than the fake “$20k in 30 days” stories people keep posting." }, { "id": "t1_olzqy5g", "author": "/u/Devvirat", "updated": "2026-05-15T18:07:15+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tdna9m/14_months_of_digital_products_on_etsy_real/olzqy5g/", "content": "Thank you very much. They really screw up people's perceptions and there are fake number posts everywhere right now. All I hope is for someone to continue after two months because they are not failing and my feed helps them out." }, { "id": "t1_olxmjxa", "author": "/u/Hrushikesh_1187", "updated": "2026-05-15T11:54:04+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tdna9m/14_months_of_digital_products_on_etsy_real/olxmjxa/", "content": "The top 5 products making 70% of revenue is probably the biggest insight here. Most people keep chasing new products instead of building faster iteration loops around the ones already proving demand.\n keyword research first is one lesson people usually learn after wasting months building blindly. once teams start validating concepts, pages, creatives, and positioning earlier, decision-making gets way less random. that’s partly why lighter workflow tools like Runable have started showing up more in these processes." }, { "id": "t1_olzqen2", "author": "/u/Devvirat", "updated": "2026-05-15T18:04:41+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tdna9m/14_months_of_digital_products_on_etsy_real/olzqen2/", "content": "Absolutely right, and I’m ashamed it took me so long to figure that out. Instead of trying to come up with more categories, I could have just started making 10 versions of the 5 that worked. It’s all about iterating on what works." }, { "id": "t1_om97jwq", "author": "/u/Pitiful-Register2717", "updated": "2026-05-17T05:11:52+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tdna9m/14_months_of_digital_products_on_etsy_real/om97jwq/", "content": "You should also look into selling on other platforms as well: Gumroad, Payhip, Creative market, Appsumo, Whop" }, { "id": "t1_omio9m4", "author": "/u/Devvirat", "updated": "2026-05-18T17:17:20+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tdna9m/14_months_of_digital_products_on_etsy_real/omio9m4/", "content": "Good point Creative Market especially is worth looking into for design-heavy products. Appsumo and Whop I haven't tried but I've seen others mention them. My current priority is getting the Etsy foundation solid before spreading across platforms, but once the core is running smoothly these are next on the list." }, { "id": "t1_opbpikn", "author": "/u/HovercraftOptimal971", "updated": "2026-06-02T14:30:04+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tdna9m/14_months_of_digital_products_on_etsy_real/opbpikn/", "content": "Top 5 products?" }, { "id": "t1_omggpqn", "author": "/u/ai-techguy001", "updated": "2026-05-18T10:10:44+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tdna9m/14_months_of_digital_products_on_etsy_real/omggpqn/", "content": "yeah the 80/20 thing hits hard here, but that promo drop at the end was smooth lol" }, { "id": "t1_omp4njm", "author": "/u/adoredhello1316", "updated": "2026-05-19T16:28:26+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tdna9m/14_months_of_digital_products_on_etsy_real/omp4njm/", "content": "The 80-20 rule hits so hard here, but most people bail before they get their top five products sorted out because month three feels like failure." }, { "id": "t1_olwgk1p", "author": "/u/two-pelicans", "updated": "2026-05-15T06:11:33+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tdna9m/14_months_of_digital_products_on_etsy_real/olwgk1p/", "content": "In what ways do you research?" }, { "id": "t1_olwh6ni", "author": "/u/MrFatalShot", "updated": "2026-05-15T06:16:50+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tdna9m/14_months_of_digital_products_on_etsy_real/olwh6ni/", "content": "Following" }, { "id": "t1_olzpo91", "author": "/u/giftandglory", "updated": "2026-05-15T18:01:14+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tdna9m/14_months_of_digital_products_on_etsy_real/olzpo91/", "content": "erank" }, { "id": "t1_om1j4q7", "author": "/u/lovelyb26", "updated": "2026-05-15T23:40:14+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tdna9m/14_months_of_digital_products_on_etsy_real/om1j4q7/", "content": "This is the first question that popped in my head as well" }, { "id": "t1_omdhb1e", "author": "/u/RonJeremyBellyButton", "updated": "2026-05-17T21:17:10+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tdna9m/14_months_of_digital_products_on_etsy_real/omdhb1e/", "content": "I'm assuming that they probably just start typing in something like "jewelry" and they pay attention to the autocomplete results." }, { "id": "t1_olx1doq", "author": "/u/Aggressive-Ad-2095", "updated": "2026-05-15T09:16:33+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tdna9m/14_months_of_digital_products_on_etsy_real/olx1doq/", "content": "How do you research keywords" }, { "id": "t1_olx5lyf", "author": "/u/Devvirat", "updated": "2026-05-15T09:53:30+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tdna9m/14_months_of_digital_products_on_etsy_real/olx5lyf/", "content": "For keyword research I mostly use Etsy's own search bar type a keyword and see what autocompletes. Those suggestions are real searches people are making. Then I check the top listings for that term, look at how many sales they have, and if the top 3-4 shops are all doing well, that tells me there's real demand. I also use a free tool called Erank (free tier) which shows you search volume and competition for Etsy keywords. I wrote a more detailed breakdown of my exact process here if it helps: [devvirat.com/selling-digital-products-etsy-honest-review]" }, { "id": "t1_olwjh7f", "author": "/u/AlexYoung1", "updated": "2026-05-15T06:36:22+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tdna9m/14_months_of_digital_products_on_etsy_real/olwjh7f/", "content": "Yeah im thinking of starting i dont need 1000s extra a month just something like what your getting id be happy with. Could you let us know what product you added that really changed things around" }, { "id": "t1_olx5qr0", "author": "/u/Devvirat", "updated": "2026-05-15T09:54:36+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tdna9m/14_months_of_digital_products_on_etsy_real/olx5qr0/", "content": "The monthly budget spreadsheet (Google Sheets) was the one that changed things. Simple, solves a real problem, and people search for it consistently. What helped wasn't the product itself I had made similar things before it was finally doing proper keyword research first instead of guessing. Once I confirmed there was real search volume before making it, the result was completely different." }, { "id": "t1_om3bov5", "author": "/u/emichaelides93", "updated": "2026-05-16T07:18:33+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tdna9m/14_months_of_digital_products_on_etsy_real/om3bov5/", "content": "Is this basically you designing a template, and people buying it? Sorry if that's a silly question but this sounds right up my street!" }, { "id": "t1_om5s47t", "author": "/u/Devvirat", "updated": "2026-05-16T16:58:51+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tdna9m/14_months_of_digital_products_on_etsy_real/om5s47t/", "content": "That is precisely how the process works; you create your own design for a file (budget spreadsheet, planner, or even a resume), and someone purchases it to download immediately. There’s nothing tangible involved in the process. It's created only once, and it can be sold many times over." }, { "id": "t1_olwvfbu", "author": "/u/ThatsWhatSheSaid504", "updated": "2026-05-15T08:22:25+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tdna9m/14_months_of_digital_products_on_etsy_real/olwvfbu/", "content": "With so much esty competition how do you make sure you show up at the top of the list??" }, { "id": "t1_olx5ojj", "author": "/u/Devvirat", "updated": "2026-05-15T09:54:06+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tdna9m/14_months_of_digital_products_on_etsy_real/olx5ojj/", "content": "Honestly thumbnails matter more than most people think. The first image is everything I switched from flat screenshots to proper mockup images (Canva has free mockup templates) and my click-through rate nearly doubled. Beyond that: good keyword in your title, first 40 characters especially. And reviews those first 10-15 reviews make a massive difference in where Etsy places you. Getting those early by pricing slightly lower at launch helped me a lot." }, { "id": "t1_omtzsd8", "author": "/u/ai-techguy001", "updated": "2026-05-20T09:25:44+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tdna9m/14_months_of_digital_products_on_etsy_real/omtzsd8/", "content": "yeah the first 40 characters thing is so underrated, etsy basically uses that as your ad copy too." }, { "id": "t1_olwzefm", "author": "/u/Clean-Bodybuilder822", "updated": "2026-05-15T08:58:34+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tdna9m/14_months_of_digital_products_on_etsy_real/olwzefm/", "content": "Gumroad is doing pretty well, i sell course as well in pdf, main advantage i have is 25k followers on my page." }, { "id": "t1_om06f3y", "author": "/u/Specialist_Oil2935", "updated": "2026-05-15T19:21:46+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tdna9m/14_months_of_digital_products_on_etsy_real/om06f3y/", "content": "This is probably the most honest Etsy journey post I’ve read in a while. As someone wanting to start with printables, this actually helped more than the “I made $10k in 2 weeks” posts.\n Would you mind sharing a step-by-step breakdown of how you’d start from scratch today as a beginner? Especially things like:\n\n- how you do keyword research\n- how you validate if a niche is worth entering\n- how many listings you’d recommend starting with\n- how you create thumbnails/titles\n- and what actually helped your products start getting traffic Would genuinely love to learn from someone sharing realistic numbers and expectations." }, { "id": "t1_om5sbk5", "author": "/u/Devvirat", "updated": "2026-05-16T16:59:52+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tdna9m/14_months_of_digital_products_on_etsy_real/om5sbk5/", "content": "Happy to go into detail: Keyword research: Start by using the autocomplete feature on Etsy search bar and then see if the top results in that particular keyword are generating sales. This will confirm your demand. Free plan of Erank for quantity data.Niche validation: Are top 3-4 sellers consistently selling? Can you make a product more specialized than the existing ones? If yes to both, enter niche.\n Number of listings to begin with: Max 5-10 products. Do not build up 30 products without seeing any sales yet. You will learn from data what to expand upon.\n Thumbnail Images: Not screen shots but use Canva to create mockup images. This can really change your click-through rate.\n First Traffic: Organic search on Etsy (this will take about 4-8 weeks) and Pinterest traffic (post once per product at no cost).\n Full details available here: [devvirat.com/selling-digital-products-etsy-honest-review]" }, { "id": "t1_olzr9n2", "author": "/u/jay_0804", "updated": "2026-05-15T18:08:47+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tdna9m/14_months_of_digital_products_on_etsy_real/olzr9n2/", "content": "This is honestly one of the most realistic Etsy breakdowns I’ve seen.\n The slow ramp + long tail is exactly what people skip when they see “$10k/month passive income” screenshots. In reality it’s like 80% trial/error and 20% actual winners driving everything.\n That “top 5 products = 70% revenue” part is super consistent across almost every digital product space too. Same pattern in templates, Notion stuff, Runable even SaaS.\n Also agree on the keyword research point. Most beginners build what they like instead of what people are actively searching for, and that delay alone can cost months of momentum." }, { "id": "t1_olztlv0", "author": "/u/Devvirat", "updated": "2026-05-15T18:19:58+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tdna9m/14_months_of_digital_products_on_etsy_real/olztlv0/", "content": "It's such an obvious and repetitive cycle that after some time it becomes boring, but no one will mention it in advance. You spend weeks or months pondering over the fact that all your products should be functional, but it all boils down to finding your five winning products and working on them.It's pretty intriguing because of the pattern I heard was the same in the Notion template market. Small amount of templates, 2-3 products working their way, the rest is just taking space. Which makes me think that the advice to create a hundred of products that you can get from people who advise you how to start is completely wrong.The keyword-first approach really made a difference for me in month 6. No complicated researching or anything like that, just figuring out whether people search for that stuff at all before dedicating three hours to creating that product." }, { "id": "t1_olxioov", "author": "/u/Miamiconnectionexo", "updated": "2026-05-15T11:29:26+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tdna9m/14_months_of_digital_products_on_etsy_real/olxioov/", "content": "good post. the part about taking it step by step is underrated advice." }, { "id": "t1_om5rm8q", "author": "/u/Devvirat", "updated": "2026-05-16T16:56:21+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tdna9m/14_months_of_digital_products_on_etsy_real/om5rm8q/", "content": "Seeing a lot of the same questions I wrote a detailed breakdown of my full process (keyword research, product creation, thumbnails, pricing, Pinterest strategy) here: [devvirat.com/selling-digital-products-etsy-honest-review] Also putting together a complete guide for anyone who wants to go deeper will share here when it's ready." }, { "id": "t1_olxu19v", "author": "/u/FLfitness", "updated": "2026-05-15T12:38:21+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tdna9m/14_months_of_digital_products_on_etsy_real/olxu19v/", "content": "Most helpful post here so far!" }, { "id": "t1_olwni2e", "author": "/u/artistxecrpting", "updated": "2026-05-15T07:11:04+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tdna9m/14_months_of_digital_products_on_etsy_real/olwni2e/", "content": "What do you sell?" }, { "id": "t1_olx5tkr", "author": "/u/Devvirat", "updated": "2026-05-15T09:55:15+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tdna9m/14_months_of_digital_products_on_etsy_real/olx5tkr/", "content": "Budget templates, resume templates, planners, wedding trackers basically downloadable files people can use immediately. All made in Canva or Google Sheets. Nothing complicated, nothing physical. Buyer downloads instantly, no shipping, no inventory." }, { "id": "t1_olx6u2c", "author": "/u/wakawakamoose", "updated": "2026-05-15T10:03:32+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tdna9m/14_months_of_digital_products_on_etsy_real/olx6u2c/", "content": "How do you make it accessible after? Make a copy of the template and email it? Do you use a service that does that?" }, { "id": "t1_olx7coj", "author": "/u/Devvirat", "updated": "2026-05-15T10:07:47+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tdna9m/14_months_of_digital_products_on_etsy_real/olx7coj/", "content": "Great question this is actually one of the best things about digital products on Etsy. You upload the file directly to your Etsy listing when you create it. After someone purchases, Etsy automatically sends them a download link. You do nothing. No emails, no manual sending, no third-party service needed.\n For Google Sheets templates specifically I make a "template" version of the sheet, get the shareable link set to "anyone can view," and include instructions in the PDF that tells buyers to go to File Make a Copy. That way they get their own editable version and your original stays untouched.\n The whole delivery process is 100% automated once set up. That's the beauty of it." }, { "id": "t1_omcbm27", "author": "/u/Inevitable_Ebb_5703", "updated": "2026-05-17T17:38:43+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tdna9m/14_months_of_digital_products_on_etsy_real/omcbm27/", "content": "Do you worry about people just taking the template you created and copying it to then sell as your own? Is there a way to protect your template and formules on Google sheets?" }, { "id": "t1_omimzgm", "author": "/u/Devvirat", "updated": "2026-05-18T17:11:32+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tdna9m/14_months_of_digital_products_on_etsy_real/omimzgm/", "content": "Frankly, this question arises quite often, and here is my opinion on the matter: It occurs from time to time, but it isn't worth putting yourself through the stress of always being paranoid about it. What you can do is configure the Google Sheets file you are sharing as "view only" so that they won't be able to see the formulas you used, and add a watermark to the previews of your templates. The truth is that the ones purchasing your templates are buyers, not your competition." }, { "id": "t1_ommkn6z", "author": "/u/_Arlotte_", "updated": "2026-05-19T06:54:30+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tdna9m/14_months_of_digital_products_on_etsy_real/ommkn6z/", "content": "This was what I needed to know, thanks" }, { "id": "t1_on70w6k", "author": "/u/ai-techguy001", "updated": "2026-05-22T05:40:47+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tdna9m/14_months_of_digital_products_on_etsy_real/on70w6k/", "content": "yeah the google sheets ones tend to convert better in my experience, people trust something they can actually edit over a pretty pdf they can't touch." }, { "id": "t1_om67d5c", "author": "/u/marbled_moth", "updated": "2026-05-16T18:14:46+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tdna9m/14_months_of_digital_products_on_etsy_real/om67d5c/", "content": "With so many budget templates (and planners, etc), how do you stand out on the Etsy page? Do you feel the cover templates you made in Canva differentiate your product enough for the customer to click on, or do you offer something different like more detailed budget breakdowns? Or is it your aesthetic like with the fonts/layout?\n I just picked the budget template as an example. I sell wedding invite templates but have fallen off and want to get back into it. I have 12 sales from the past year. Thank you for the advice!!" }, { "id": "t1_om68unj", "author": "/u/Devvirat", "updated": "2026-05-16T18:22:26+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tdna9m/14_months_of_digital_products_on_etsy_real/om68unj/", "content": "Indeed my point about budget templates is this:\n It comes down to 3 things:\n #1 - Specificity. Not "budget template", but "budget template for couples combining finances for the first time", or "zero based budget for freelancers with irregular income". A person who found exactly what they need converts way better than a visitor scanning general offers.\n #2 - The thumbnail. Seriously, my click-through rate skyrocketed the minute I moved from boring flat screenshot to cool mock-up (the actual template opened in front of a laptop with a coffee mug).\n People buy feelings the feeling of having everything neatly organized in order.\n #3 - The formulas. In my budget templates, all calculations are done automatically – as you go. Categories take up percent of your income. And it's stated in the description in the first line – making this unique feature one of the main ones.\n For your wedding invites: 12 sales from 12 listings in a year means that your views are good (sales are very low) or that the views themselves are very low (you have generic keywords). Check your Etsy analytics – if sales are bad despite good views – you know where to improve. If sales are bad due to extremely low views – think about different keyword research approach.\n A quick test: Take 2-3 best selling designs, create 5 variations targeted at different niches. For example, minimalist wedding invitation for a smaller, more intimate ceremony, as opposed to a rustic barn wedding invitation with RSVP card included. Same design, but different target audience." }, { "id": "t1_om6a3xr", "author": "/u/marbled_moth", "updated": "2026-05-16T18:28:58+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tdna9m/14_months_of_digital_products_on_etsy_real/om6a3xr/", "content": "Wow thanks for your insight!! I also bundled some of my products together (save the date card + official invite) and those sold as well so I might expand on that. What I’m learning is that it really helps to get specific with titles and key words. Thank you!" }, { "id": "t1_ommkkov", "author": "/u/_Arlotte_", "updated": "2026-05-19T06:53:55+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tdna9m/14_months_of_digital_products_on_etsy_real/ommkkov/", "content": "I had been looking into doing this 2 months ago but wasn't sure how to start, so your posts have been so helpful" }, { "id": "t1_om22iuo", "author": "/u/giggleninja513", "updated": "2026-05-16T01:40:12+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tdna9m/14_months_of_digital_products_on_etsy_real/om22iuo/", "content": "I've been wanting to do this for a while for decluttering and cleaning tips. I use a budgeting spreadsheet myself so this is great! Thank you for your insight!" }, { "id": "t1_om5u7f0", "author": "/u/Devvirat", "updated": "2026-05-16T17:09:13+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tdna9m/14_months_of_digital_products_on_etsy_real/om5u7f0/", "content": "That's actually a solid niche cleaning checklists, decluttering guides, home organization printables are all consistently searched. The "home organization" category on Etsy does really well. Definitely worth testing." }, { "id": "t1_olx3b21", "author": "/u/Wise-Ad-4939", "updated": "2026-05-15T09:33:48+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tdna9m/14_months_of_digital_products_on_etsy_real/olx3b21/", "content": "How to you even start? What is the process of researching keywords?" }, { "id": "t1_olx5kc2", "author": "/u/Devvirat", "updated": "2026-05-15T09:53:07+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tdna9m/14_months_of_digital_products_on_etsy_real/olx5kc2/", "content": "For keyword research I mostly use Etsy's own search bar type a keyword and see what autocompletes. Those suggestions are real searches people are making. Then I check the top listings for that term, look at how many sales they have, and if the top 3-4 shops are all doing well, that tells me there's real demand. I also use a free tool called Erank (free tier) which shows you search volume and competition for Etsy keywords. I wrote a more detailed breakdown of my exact process here if it helps: [devvirat.com/selling-digital-products-etsy-honest-review]" }, { "id": "t1_olx4cwi", "author": "/u/Prudent-Upstairs-919", "updated": "2026-05-15T09:42:57+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tdna9m/14_months_of_digital_products_on_etsy_real/olx4cwi/", "content": "how did you market your product so people can know about it" }, { "id": "t1_olxhwzj", "author": "/u/JeopardyRound", "updated": "2026-05-15T11:24:23+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tdna9m/14_months_of_digital_products_on_etsy_real/olxhwzj/", "content": "Can you drop your Etsy listing?" }, { "id": "t1_olzpemm", "author": "/u/Devvirat", "updated": "2026-05-15T18:00:00+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tdna9m/14_months_of_digital_products_on_etsy_real/olzpemm/", "content": "It's better not to share the shop straight up because it'll be swarmed with people as soon as someone discovers it. The items I described, like affordable templates, CVs, and wedding planners, are precisely what you'll find there. No secrets about the genre; it's just the listings." }, { "id": "t1_om9rbbe", "author": "/u/Lime89", "updated": "2026-05-17T08:04:46+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tdna9m/14_months_of_digital_products_on_etsy_real/om9rbbe/", "content": "Congrats! Still a success story, though. Most people who start an Etsy shop won’t see numbers like that. Here’s my results: 2 years on Etsy and 50 bucks. Same amount of listings." }, { "id": "t1_on56a9o", "author": "/u/Polish_Girlz", "updated": "2026-05-21T22:31:02+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tdna9m/14_months_of_digital_products_on_etsy_real/on56a9o/", "content": "That might be me in the future lol." }, { "id": "t1_olwkv79", "author": "/u/Powerful_Beach6129", "updated": "2026-05-15T06:48:15+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tdna9m/14_months_of_digital_products_on_etsy_real/olwkv79/", "content": "Do you sell the posters digital, so the buyer prints them theirselves?" }, { "id": "t1_olwq437", "author": "/u/super-duperfun82", "updated": "2026-05-15T07:34:04+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tdna9m/14_months_of_digital_products_on_etsy_real/olwq437/", "content": "Definitely interested what's the product" }, { "id": "t1_olwth8c", "author": "/u/FullOfPeanutButter", "updated": "2026-05-15T08:04:35+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tdna9m/14_months_of_digital_products_on_etsy_real/olwth8c/", "content": "Are you paying for the listings? How much dooes that eat into your earnings?" }, { "id": "t1_olx5vwo", "author": "/u/Devvirat", "updated": "2026-05-15T09:55:46+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tdna9m/14_months_of_digital_products_on_etsy_real/olx5vwo/", "content": "Each listing costs $0.20 on Etsy and renews every 4 months (or when it sells). So it's pretty minimal even 30 listings is only $6. Etsy also takes about 6.5% transaction fee on sales plus payment processing. So on a $10 sale you keep roughly $8.50 or so. Not bad for zero inventory." }, { "id": "t1_olxl1fp", "author": "/u/Old_Librarian__", "updated": "2026-05-15T11:44:38+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tdna9m/14_months_of_digital_products_on_etsy_real/olxl1fp/", "content": "A post from an actual human being! Is your shop secret or can I have a look at your listings? To get an idea of how good a template should be for that kind of price" }, { "id": "t1_olzpjdr", "author": "/u/Devvirat", "updated": "2026-05-15T18:00:36+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tdna9m/14_months_of_digital_products_on_etsy_real/olzpjdr/", "content": "Exactly the same answer as above for separating the shop from my Reddit identity by choice. But really, the quality standards aren’t as lofty as one might expect. Good visual design, clean mockup image, well-thought-out product title. Check out the best-selling items in any category, and you’ll have your baseline right there." }, { "id": "t1_olzsnam", "author": "", "updated": "2026-05-15T18:15:22+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tdna9m/14_months_of_digital_products_on_etsy_real/olzsnam/", "content": "[deleted]" }, { "id": "t1_olzub8b", "author": "/u/Devvirat", "updated": "2026-05-15T18:23:19+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tdna9m/14_months_of_digital_products_on_etsy_real/olzub8b/", "content": "The shortest possible process I came up with: Search Etsy and input some keyword like "planner for", or "budget template". Autocomplete should show actual search keywords people used. Now click through the top links on those keywords and check the sellers' sales. Do they look good? Yes? Demand exists for that. Create something that is either an improvement over those items or slightly different. I recommend using Canva (free) or Google Sheets. Upload with a polished mockup rather than boring screenshots. Your thumbnail needs to kill.\n Do this for 5-10 products and wait.Expect the first sale in 3-6 weeks. First month or two may seem completely pointless, but don't give up yet.\n For more information please visit: [devvirat.com/selling-digital-products-etsy-honest-review]" }, { "id": "t1_olzwkyx", "author": "/u/Affectionate_Kitty91", "updated": "2026-05-15T18:34:11+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tdna9m/14_months_of_digital_products_on_etsy_real/olzwkyx/", "content": "I have a dumb question, if you’d be so kind. I have a product that is a printable id love to put out there, but how can I keep the formatting in place when people download and how can they add their information? Do a I need a certain kind of Adobe PDF format?" }, { "id": "t1_om34jk7", "author": "/u/marbled_moth", "updated": "2026-05-16T06:16:16+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tdna9m/14_months_of_digital_products_on_etsy_real/om34jk7/", "content": "Hi! Hope the OP doesn't mind me jumping in here. I sell templates that I made in Canva. So when the buyer purchases it through Etsy, Etsy sends them a link to my Canva template. Then the buyer will open it and be able to edit all of the font/wording/colors. You should play around with it to see if it suits your needs. All the formatting is set in place (like upper left corner/middle of page/etc) and they click on that section to edit. However, if they want to delete a whole section of wording, they can. If you have a drawing or graphic, you can upload it as a document and place it as the background and then have editable font in front of that.\n You could also send the link to a PDF template, but I've noticed not everyone has PDF editing tools and Canva seems pretty straight forward.\n Also I want to add that the "template links" function used to be free on Canva but then they made it only available with a subscription. If you create an account you'll see the "template" button in the menu has a lock on it. To get around that, send the link to your template and give the buyer these instructions:\n\n- Upon opening the template, Buyer will see the template in "Viewing" mode\n\n- At the top left, click File > Make a Copy\n\n- Now the Buyer will be in "Editing" mode and can make all changes\n This essentially gets around the "template link" function restriction because they're actually using YOUR template, but then making a copy to create and edit their own. The benefit to Canva's template link function is that the buyer could open the link and it immediately gives them their own template to edit, rather than them needing to make a copy and then edit. I hope that wasn't too confusing!" }, { "id": "t1_om4z59i", "author": "/u/Affectionate_Kitty91", "updated": "2026-05-16T14:33:24+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tdna9m/14_months_of_digital_products_on_etsy_real/om4z59i/", "content": "Thanks so much! I’ll check it out! Appreciate the detailed instructions so much!!" }, { "id": "t1_om64kls", "author": "/u/marbled_moth", "updated": "2026-05-16T18:00:36+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tdna9m/14_months_of_digital_products_on_etsy_real/om64kls/", "content": "No problem! Good luck!!" }, { "id": "t1_om2o9a1", "author": "/u/TianaGlobal", "updated": "2026-05-16T04:05:08+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tdna9m/14_months_of_digital_products_on_etsy_real/om2o9a1/", "content": "Thank you for sharing your numbers, it's really inspiring - constant growth in numbers 😍" }, { "id": "t1_om32hrc", "author": "/u/Impressive_Peanut496", "updated": "2026-05-16T05:58:45+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tdna9m/14_months_of_digital_products_on_etsy_real/om32hrc/", "content": "Whats are digital products?" }, { "id": "t1_om5sy3i", "author": "/u/Devvirat", "updated": "2026-05-16T17:02:59+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tdna9m/14_months_of_digital_products_on_etsy_real/om5sy3i/", "content": "The files that you purchase and use immediately thereafter. Examples include a budget file that you use in Google Sheets, a planner that you download to print yourself, and a resume format that you can customize using Canva. No actual product or physical object is involved, and there is no shipping." }, { "id": "t1_om3ox4s", "author": "/u/No_Worldliness1986", "updated": "2026-05-16T09:20:16+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tdna9m/14_months_of_digital_products_on_etsy_real/om3ox4s/", "content": "Have been hearing about this a lot? How does this work?" }, { "id": "t1_om9yyh2", "author": "/u/If-only184", "updated": "2026-05-17T09:15:18+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tdna9m/14_months_of_digital_products_on_etsy_real/om9yyh2/", "content": "What product do you sell?" }, { "id": "t1_om9zhi5", "author": "/u/Devvirat", "updated": "2026-05-17T09:20:11+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tdna9m/14_months_of_digital_products_on_etsy_real/om9zhi5/", "content": "Budget templates, resume templates, planners, wedding trackers basically downloadable files people can use immediately. All made in Canva or Google Sheets. Nothing complicated, nothing physical. Buyer downloads instantly, no shipping, no inventory. More Information You can Check here : [devvirat.com/selling-digital-products-etsy-honest-review]" }, { "id": "t1_on56dvu", "author": "/u/Polish_Girlz", "updated": "2026-05-21T22:31:36+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tdna9m/14_months_of_digital_products_on_etsy_real/on56dvu/", "content": "thats similar to mine except i make MS Word docs. Right now Im on resume templates but i have some journals in there too. I think of all of these digital products the resumes are doing the best (1 sale but the best in terms of views). and that makes a lot of sense as journals are better for canva" }, { "id": "t1_omfih5b", "author": "/u/takechancesorelse", "updated": "2026-05-18T05:07:05+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tdna9m/14_months_of_digital_products_on_etsy_real/omfih5b/", "content": "Appreciate the realness of this. Really puts success in perspective." }, { "id": "t1_omne752", "author": "/u/blaringenvirons91", "updated": "2026-05-19T11:08:00+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tdna9m/14_months_of_digital_products_on_etsy_real/omne752/", "content": "the slow grind is real, but those numbers look like they're starting to compound around month 6-7 which is honestly when most people quit so you're already ahead of the curve" }, { "id": "t1_omnnfmq", "author": "/u/MindlessBand9522", "updated": "2026-05-19T12:07:46+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tdna9m/14_months_of_digital_products_on_etsy_real/omnnfmq/", "content": "Let's gooo. Slow and steady always wins the race.\n It took me 2 years to hit my first $1k month back in the day." }, { "id": "t1_on8v6zd", "author": "/u/HistoricalBat4620", "updated": "2026-05-22T13:42:42+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tdna9m/14_months_of_digital_products_on_etsy_real/on8v6zd/", "content": "Thankyou so much for sharing your journey it really helped me" }, { "id": "t1_olwioao", "author": "/u/CutOther7571", "updated": "2026-05-15T06:29:25+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tdna9m/14_months_of_digital_products_on_etsy_real/olwioao/", "content": "Following" }, { "id": "t1_olwm64g", "author": "/u/Stunning-Squash1058", "updated": "2026-05-15T06:59:24+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tdna9m/14_months_of_digital_products_on_etsy_real/olwm64g/", "content": "Anyone who wants to do sign ups" }, { "id": "t1_olwqbyz", "author": "/u/Key-County2512", "updated": "2026-05-15T07:36:02+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tdna9m/14_months_of_digital_products_on_etsy_real/olwqbyz/", "content": "You should scale using other platform luke us @pristify" }, { "id": "t1_olwta7c", "author": "/u/facelessfriendnet", "updated": "2026-05-15T08:02:47+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tdna9m/14_months_of_digital_products_on_etsy_real/olwta7c/", "content": "Where are you listing them" }, { "id": "t1_olx7nsd", "author": "/u/Zucchini1111", "updated": "2026-05-15T10:10:17+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tdna9m/14_months_of_digital_products_on_etsy_real/olx7nsd/", "content": "How to start doing what you're doing??" }, { "id": "t1_olzq8wz", "author": "/u/Devvirat", "updated": "2026-05-15T18:03:56+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tdna9m/14_months_of_digital_products_on_etsy_real/olzq8wz/", "content": "Shortest version: choose a specific niche that you're familiar with, do keyword research from Etsy's autocomplete feature before creating any product, create five products, and list them with proper mockup thumbnails. First sale generally comes within 3-6 weeks. Detailed information can be found at: [devvirat.com/selling-digital-products-etsy-honest-review]" }, { "id": "t1_olxrue6", "author": "/u/blahblah406", "updated": "2026-05-15T12:25:41+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tdna9m/14_months_of_digital_products_on_etsy_real/olxrue6/", "content": "Link to your store?" }, { "id": "t1_oly2k5d", "author": "/u/smol_deer_0", "updated": "2026-05-15T13:24:08+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tdna9m/14_months_of_digital_products_on_etsy_real/oly2k5d/", "content": "how do you do marketing?" }, { "id": "t1_olyo41u", "author": "/u/PinkNova", "updated": "2026-05-15T15:08:29+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tdna9m/14_months_of_digital_products_on_etsy_real/olyo41u/", "content": "The screenshot on your website shows that these sales are from 2023-24? How have they been since?" }, { "id": "t1_olzpsv3", "author": "/u/Devvirat", "updated": "2026-05-15T18:01:51+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tdna9m/14_months_of_digital_products_on_etsy_real/olzpsv3/", "content": "Fair catch. That was from my previous months. The current month figure stands at around $600-$650, a bit slow compared to previous ones where I was adding lots of products. Perhaps I will do some push in the coming months with some scientifically-backed products from the beginning." }, { "id": "t1_olzu3ua", "author": "/u/PinkNova", "updated": "2026-05-15T18:22:20+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tdna9m/14_months_of_digital_products_on_etsy_real/olzu3ua/", "content": "Your post says you now have 34 products? After 3 years? Or this entire post is outdated I guess." }, { "id": "t1_olzuo9z", "author": "/u/Devvirat", "updated": "2026-05-15T18:25:04+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tdna9m/14_months_of_digital_products_on_etsy_real/olzuo9z/", "content": "Yeah, 34 over about 14 months of active construction but not constantly. Sometimes I would add 4-5, sometimes none. The figure of 34 grew very irregularly. Plus, to be honest, many of those earlier ones should’ve been removed and constructed anew, since I had yet to learn how to do keyword research and therefore those articles are now sitting around earning almost no views at all. Sellable items, then, would be around 15-18." }, { "id": "t1_olzvha6", "author": "/u/PinkNova", "updated": "2026-05-15T18:28:52+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tdna9m/14_months_of_digital_products_on_etsy_real/olzvha6/", "content": "Your store is 3 years old, not 14 months old as the post says. Digital products are not where they were 3 years ago. I also started a store then. My point is that this is outdated and a bit misleading." }, { "id": "t1_olzwwty", "author": "/u/Devvirat", "updated": "2026-05-15T18:35:47+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tdna9m/14_months_of_digital_products_on_etsy_real/olzwwty/", "content": "That's right, I appreciate your input and agree with you on that one. The store is indeed much older than 20 months I hadn't been doing anything serious until I started tracking my results, which had been happening for the last 14 months or so. It was my mistake for writing that way.I'm definitely aware that the market has changed a great deal since those three years ago, but that just makes what I'm talking about here more important rather than less important. Of course, you'd be facing a tougher job if you were to start from scratch today." }, { "id": "t1_olyukhf", "author": "/u/Putrid-Document-9019", "updated": "2026-05-15T15:38:07+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tdna9m/14_months_of_digital_products_on_etsy_real/olyukhf/", "content": "Do you need to be a canva creator to sell canva templates? I got rejected as a canva creator because they had too many already." }, { "id": "t1_olzpx92", "author": "/u/Devvirat", "updated": "2026-05-15T18:02:25+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tdna9m/14_months_of_digital_products_on_etsy_real/olzpx92/", "content": "Not only the Canva Creator can sell Canva templates. In order to sell templates on Canva’s marketplace, you need to become a Canva Creator. However, when it comes to selling on Etsy, all you need to do is share a Canva template link which any registered user of Canva can do." }, { "id": "t1_om3raby", "author": "/u/Putrid-Document-9019", "updated": "2026-05-16T09:42:18+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tdna9m/14_months_of_digital_products_on_etsy_real/om3raby/", "content": "Ohhh okay thank you!" }, { "id": "t1_olz1tpi", "author": "", "updated": "2026-05-15T16:11:31+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tdna9m/14_months_of_digital_products_on_etsy_real/olz1tpi/", "content": "[deleted]" }, { "id": "t1_om5sjq2", "author": "/u/Devvirat", "updated": "2026-05-16T17:01:00+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tdna9m/14_months_of_digital_products_on_etsy_real/om5sjq2/", "content": "I never attempt to be the cheapest. Being cheap just brings customers who write bad reviews whenever there is any discrepancy with what they ordered. What I do is compare myself against the top 5 in terms of keyword and pricing. I am usually somewhere between $7-$15 for most of the templates. I would always introduce new products by offering them at a little bit cheaper rate for just a few weeks to gain some reviews." }, { "id": "t1_olzyqxn", "author": "/u/Ok_Raspberry6223", "updated": "2026-05-15T18:44:36+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tdna9m/14_months_of_digital_products_on_etsy_real/olzyqxn/", "content": "What’s your average price per listing? Do you do what other sellers are doing or try to beat their price?" }, { "id": "t1_om065g6", "author": "/u/Backbencher_Doc", "updated": "2026-05-15T19:20:28+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tdna9m/14_months_of_digital_products_on_etsy_real/om065g6/", "content": "How can i do it ?" }, { "id": "t1_om0eod1", "author": "/u/LocationOk399", "updated": "2026-05-15T20:02:10+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tdna9m/14_months_of_digital_products_on_etsy_real/om0eod1/", "content": "Very impressed with the consistency 👏🏾" }, { "id": "t1_om0t7o5", "author": "/u/Miamiconnectionexo", "updated": "2026-05-15T21:13:36+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tdna9m/14_months_of_digital_products_on_etsy_real/om0t7o5/", "content": "this is genuinely helpful, not just the usual fluff. bookmarking this thread." }, { "id": "t1_om205tz", "author": "/u/2waterparks1price", "updated": "2026-05-16T01:25:12+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tdna9m/14_months_of_digital_products_on_etsy_real/om205tz/", "content": "Biggest problem I see with Etsy people is that you don’t get customer info. And digital is all about repeat business.\n How many customer emails/phone numbers have you collected and what are you doing to capture more from them?" }, { "id": "t1_om5so4f", "author": "/u/Devvirat", "updated": "2026-05-16T17:01:37+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tdna9m/14_months_of_digital_products_on_etsy_real/om5so4f/", "content": "Etsy does not provide you with customer email addresses; it is an actual disadvantage which you correctly pointed out. My strategy: I place a disclaimer in all my downloads that says "Check out my website for more updates and templates." Not too pushy, but just enough to get their attention. Only a conversion rate of 2-3%, but still counts. The future is off-Etsy." }, { "id": "t1_omelezp", "author": "/u/2waterparks1price", "updated": "2026-05-18T01:18:16+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tdna9m/14_months_of_digital_products_on_etsy_real/omelezp/", "content": "I’ve seen others get really strong results with offering more incentive to join their mailing list.\n “Get the missing chapter”\n “Double your templates”\n “Get the full set of templates for XYZ”\n All free. All to get a customer’s email address. Profit is in repeat business." }, { "id": "t1_omin9hg", "author": "/u/Devvirat", "updated": "2026-05-18T17:12:48+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tdna9m/14_months_of_digital_products_on_etsy_real/omin9hg/", "content": "Very true and smart indeed. This approach is better than the usual "visit my website". I have been considering coming up with a free guide that will complement my budget templates. Something similar to an easy to understand one page guide for those not ready to purchase the budget template yet. This will be the perfect lead magnet to use. Added this to my list of things to do." }, { "id": "t1_omio6c7", "author": "/u/2waterparks1price", "updated": "2026-05-18T17:16:55+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tdna9m/14_months_of_digital_products_on_etsy_real/omio6c7/", "content": "Love it. I'll leave you with this, a software I love publishes a lot of data around how the pro's monetize their audiences. The number they have is that something like 12% of customers become repeat customers, but that cohort accounts for 44% of all revenue.\n A link to this big report they have with more context and other data points you might be interested to read: https://www.samcart.com/creator-profits-report" }, { "id": "t1_om2le6u", "author": "/u/FarMoonlight", "updated": "2026-05-16T03:44:46+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tdna9m/14_months_of_digital_products_on_etsy_real/om2le6u/", "content": "Kudos to you on your honesty and realistic output to us here !!!!" }, { "id": "t1_om302cy", "author": "/u/SiennaMalone", "updated": "2026-05-16T05:38:02+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tdna9m/14_months_of_digital_products_on_etsy_real/om302cy/", "content": "Curious how you first started gaining traction on Etsy? I’ve been listing my products on Gumroad because Etsy seems over saturated, but I do want to list on multiple platforms." }, { "id": "t1_om5sr58", "author": "/u/Devvirat", "updated": "2026-05-16T17:02:01+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tdna9m/14_months_of_digital_products_on_etsy_real/om5sr58/", "content": "The strength of Etsy is discoverability; many buyers searching already on there. With Gumroad, you need to provide your own traffic. Use both ethically. Post your work on Etsy to get traffic from Google and other places, and post your work using Gumroad or your own website if you already have traffic." }, { "id": "t1_om64g4u", "author": "/u/SiennaMalone", "updated": "2026-05-16T17:59:58+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tdna9m/14_months_of_digital_products_on_etsy_real/om64g4u/", "content": "Thank you! Appreciate you sharing what’s worked for you!" }, { "id": "t1_om305vy", "author": "/u/Nefertari1", "updated": "2026-05-16T05:38:51+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tdna9m/14_months_of_digital_products_on_etsy_real/om305vy/", "content": "How did you make your digital product?" }, { "id": "t1_om5svhh", "author": "/u/Devvirat", "updated": "2026-05-16T17:02:38+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tdna9m/14_months_of_digital_products_on_etsy_real/om5svhh/", "content": "Use Canva for visuals: planner templates, resume templates, wedding planners. Use Google Sheets for anything involving calculations: budget templates, expense calculators. Both are free to use. For beginner products, the time taken to learn would be around 2-3 hours." }, { "id": "t1_om6xpvk", "author": "/u/Nefertari1", "updated": "2026-05-16T20:33:24+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tdna9m/14_months_of_digital_products_on_etsy_real/om6xpvk/", "content": "Thank you!" }, { "id": "t1_om3lw3p", "author": "/u/godsgifttotheladiesl", "updated": "2026-05-16T08:52:01+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tdna9m/14_months_of_digital_products_on_etsy_real/om3lw3p/", "content": "How did u make your planner editable and fields like total autosum" }, { "id": "t1_om5t1xx", "author": "/u/Devvirat", "updated": "2026-05-16T17:03:31+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tdna9m/14_months_of_digital_products_on_etsy_real/om5t1xx/", "content": "Google Sheets Templates Just create it in the usual way by adding SUM functions in the required cells. All the formulas will be transferred to the buyer when he copies your worksheet. He enters his data into the designated cells, and then automatically, the total gets updated. No need to do anything extra from your side; just create the worksheet in the regular fashion." }, { "id": "t1_om3nfwa", "author": "/u/yummycheesesquare", "updated": "2026-05-16T09:06:18+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tdna9m/14_months_of_digital_products_on_etsy_real/om3nfwa/", "content": "Where do you list your digital products? Instagram? I was curious how necessary it is to build a strong instagram presence for distribution. That feels intimidating!" }, { "id": "t1_om5t6h2", "author": "/u/Devvirat", "updated": "2026-05-16T17:04:09+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tdna9m/14_months_of_digital_products_on_etsy_real/om5t6h2/", "content": "Absolutely not well, at least not initially. It took me 8 months to do organic Etsy searching and Pinterest marketing alone. Instagram takes a little more time since it involves producing constant content. Pinterest is way easier when promoting Etsy, especially considering that the links are directly attached to your product listing pages and people are already in the mindset of shopping or planning their purchases." }, { "id": "t1_om4e4xm", "author": "/u/lordduckling", "updated": "2026-05-16T12:35:09+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tdna9m/14_months_of_digital_products_on_etsy_real/om4e4xm/", "content": "Where or how do you do keyword research, and what were your top sellers?\n Thanks!" }, { "id": "t1_om5tc0q", "author": "/u/Devvirat", "updated": "2026-05-16T17:04:54+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tdna9m/14_months_of_digital_products_on_etsy_real/om5tc0q/", "content": "Keywords: Etsy autocomplete + erank free version. Detailed breakdown available here: [devvirat.com/selling-digital-products-etsy-honest-review]\n Most successful items: Budget tracker (in Google Sheets) was my top selling item. The other one was monthly budget tracker for couples. Both discovered using keywords." }, { "id": "t1_om5w8vl", "author": "/u/lordduckling", "updated": "2026-05-16T17:19:19+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tdna9m/14_months_of_digital_products_on_etsy_real/om5w8vl/", "content": "Much appreciated!" }, { "id": "t1_om4ejd5", "author": "/u/pissed_at_everything", "updated": "2026-05-16T12:37:40+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tdna9m/14_months_of_digital_products_on_etsy_real/om4ejd5/", "content": "Similarly, I started selling wedding related digital templates (invites, save the dates, welcome boards etc.) however, i don’t get as many views and only got 5 sales on 12 listings. 2-3 of my listings get the most views whereas the others barely do." }, { "id": "t1_om5tf73", "author": "/u/Devvirat", "updated": "2026-05-16T17:05:20+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tdna9m/14_months_of_digital_products_on_etsy_real/om5tf73/", "content": "It is perfectly normal to have only two or three of those listings being viewed. But does that happen because the keywords you used are correct, or simply by sheer luck? Look at your Etsy analytics, and find out what brings people there. Is it an organic search? Good! Now you know what keywords to use, create five variants of those listings." }, { "id": "t1_om65x3w", "author": "/u/pissed_at_everything", "updated": "2026-05-16T18:07:24+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tdna9m/14_months_of_digital_products_on_etsy_real/om65x3w/", "content": "What brings views and sales is mostly the fact that those listings are based on a niche, as opposed to others that are more general wedding stationery designs with a lot of competition." }, { "id": "t1_om68kdv", "author": "/u/Devvirat", "updated": "2026-05-16T18:20:56+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tdna9m/14_months_of_digital_products_on_etsy_real/om68kdv/", "content": "This is exactly what I am talking about. Niche listings always beat general listings hands down. "Boho wedding invitations" are up against thousands of others. "Boho wedding invitations for outdoor garden ceremonies," on the other hand, has significantly less competition because the buyer has already narrowed their focus." }, { "id": "t1_om4ljfe", "author": "/u/overthinker-pg95", "updated": "2026-05-16T13:19:29+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tdna9m/14_months_of_digital_products_on_etsy_real/om4ljfe/", "content": "Whats ur niche" }, { "id": "t1_om5tkf0", "author": "/u/Devvirat", "updated": "2026-05-16T17:06:03+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tdna9m/14_months_of_digital_products_on_etsy_real/om5tkf0/", "content": "Mostly personal finance related budget planners, expense loggers, debt repayments planners. Also some productivity tools such as weekly planners and goal setters. Any tool basically that requires a repetitive solution to be found for an issue." }, { "id": "t1_om52a1p", "author": "/u/Altruistic_Cut7376", "updated": "2026-05-16T14:49:23+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tdna9m/14_months_of_digital_products_on_etsy_real/om52a1p/", "content": "Under what category is your digital product? I don’t see any category stating “Digital products” in the list of product categories." }, { "id": "t1_om5tq8i", "author": "/u/Devvirat", "updated": "2026-05-16T17:06:51+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tdna9m/14_months_of_digital_products_on_etsy_real/om5tq8i/", "content": "For Etsy listings, if you have a digital product, then choose "Craft Supplies & Tools" -> "Patterns & How to," except for printables, which fall into "Paper & Party Supplies." You do not have one main category that is just "digital products;" you need to select the nearest physical equivalent, then select "Digital Download" in the listing options." }, { "id": "t1_om6wmi9", "author": "/u/Altruistic_Cut7376", "updated": "2026-05-16T20:27:34+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tdna9m/14_months_of_digital_products_on_etsy_real/om6wmi9/", "content": "Thank you. Much appreciated." }, { "id": "t1_om59y6z", "author": "/u/TheKingDiva", "updated": "2026-05-16T15:27:59+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tdna9m/14_months_of_digital_products_on_etsy_real/om59y6z/", "content": "How did you initially decide what to start uploading? This where I am stuck." }, { "id": "t1_om5twyo", "author": "/u/Devvirat", "updated": "2026-05-16T17:07:46+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tdna9m/14_months_of_digital_products_on_etsy_real/om5twyo/", "content": "That is the question which would have saved me months of time had I been able to get the answer right at the beginning of my journey. Don’t choose products according to your preferences. Log in to Etsy, input 5-6 themes in the search engine that you have expertise in, and see what comes up as suggestions. Look out for the themes that have shops making sales on their products." }, { "id": "t1_om8xdye", "author": "/u/balkarkalsi-Gmail", "updated": "2026-05-17T03:54:16+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tdna9m/14_months_of_digital_products_on_etsy_real/om8xdye/", "content": "As a Graphic designer could you please suggest what is best thing to design and sell on ETSY" }, { "id": "t1_omip1tc", "author": "/u/Devvirat", "updated": "2026-05-18T17:20:50+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tdna9m/14_months_of_digital_products_on_etsy_real/omip1tc/", "content": "As a graphic designer you're genuinely better positioned than most people starting this. High-demand categories for designers on Etsy: social media templates (Instagram post packs, story templates), logo templates for small businesses, Canva brand kits, pitch deck templates, wedding stationery suites. The key is still keyword research first find where demand is high and competition is beatable. Your design skills give you an advantage in the thumbnail and product quality, which matters a lot in competitive categories." }, { "id": "t1_om9xj2i", "author": "/u/PoorlyQuestionable", "updated": "2026-05-17T09:02:08+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tdna9m/14_months_of_digital_products_on_etsy_real/om9xj2i/", "content": "month 8 dip is real, the algorithm probably just shifted on you but glad you stuck with it instead of bailing like most people do after month 2." }, { "id": "t1_omip529", "author": "/u/Devvirat", "updated": "2026-05-18T17:21:15+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tdna9m/14_months_of_digital_products_on_etsy_real/omip529/", "content": "Yeah I think that's exactly what happened algorithm shift. A few listings that had been getting steady traffic just dropped off for no obvious reason. Nothing changed on my end. Kept going anyway and by month 9 things recovered. That month 8 dip is one of the reasons I tell people not to judge the business by any single month's numbers." }, { "id": "t1_omd4dd6", "author": "/u/LightlyFuture", "updated": "2026-05-17T20:10:11+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tdna9m/14_months_of_digital_products_on_etsy_real/omd4dd6/", "content": "The keyword research angle matters way more than people think, especially when you're competing against thousands of listings that look identical to yours." }, { "id": "t1_omip8gp", "author": "/u/Devvirat", "updated": "2026-05-18T17:21:40+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tdna9m/14_months_of_digital_products_on_etsy_real/omip8gp/", "content": "Completely agree and the frustrating part is you can have a genuinely good product that nobody ever finds because the title doesn't match how buyers search. The product quality matters but it's almost secondary to discoverability. You can't buy something you can't find." }, { "id": "t1_ome9xd1", "author": "/u/pluck_the_fluff", "updated": "2026-05-18T00:06:38+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tdna9m/14_months_of_digital_products_on_etsy_real/ome9xd1/", "content": "Following" }, { "id": "t1_omfscib", "author": "/u/Zucchini1111", "updated": "2026-05-18T06:30:26+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tdna9m/14_months_of_digital_products_on_etsy_real/omfscib/", "content": "Any one has links to discord servers where they teach this shit?" }, { "id": "t1_omir9tt", "author": "/u/Devvirat", "updated": "2026-05-18T17:31:07+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tdna9m/14_months_of_digital_products_on_etsy_real/omir9tt/", "content": "Honestly the best community I've found for this is just Reddit r/EtsySellers is active and has a lot of people sharing real experiences. There are some Facebook groups for Etsy sellers too. Haven't found a Discord that's consistently good quality but if anyone knows one worth joining I'd be curious too." }, { "id": "t1_omhbm6y", "author": "/u/Independent_Yam_585", "updated": "2026-05-18T13:30:21+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tdna9m/14_months_of_digital_products_on_etsy_real/omhbm6y/", "content": "Is this just with doing like drop shipping? Like it seems like something interesting to do but I am iffy about starting ANOTHER dropshipping on Etsy." }, { "id": "t1_omipc12", "author": "/u/Devvirat", "updated": "2026-05-18T17:22:07+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tdna9m/14_months_of_digital_products_on_etsy_real/omipc12/", "content": "Not dropshipping at all completely different model. Dropshipping means you sell physical products and a supplier ships them. What I do is digital products files that buyers download instantly. No supplier, no shipping, no inventory. You make the file once and it sells as many times as someone buys it. Much simpler than dropshipping honestly." }, { "id": "t1_omn82v2", "author": "/u/turtlewearsraincoat", "updated": "2026-05-19T10:22:33+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tdna9m/14_months_of_digital_products_on_etsy_real/omn82v2/", "content": "Can I do this from India?" }, { "id": "t1_omr2yq9", "author": "/u/Embarrassed_Cat_1025", "updated": "2026-05-19T21:44:41+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tdna9m/14_months_of_digital_products_on_etsy_real/omr2yq9/", "content": "What kind of digital products?" }, { "id": "t1_omz0gqp", "author": "/u/KitchenFoundation381", "updated": "2026-05-21T01:12:33+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tdna9m/14_months_of_digital_products_on_etsy_real/omz0gqp/", "content": "What kind of products you sell" }, { "id": "t1_on0n2z1", "author": "/u/Ok-Neighborhood-566", "updated": "2026-05-21T07:57:42+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tdna9m/14_months_of_digital_products_on_etsy_real/on0n2z1/", "content": "What templates are we talking about?" }, { "id": "t1_on1wbj5", "author": "/u/Alternative-Wish-592", "updated": "2026-05-21T13:17:59+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tdna9m/14_months_of_digital_products_on_etsy_real/on1wbj5/", "content": "Would love to hear about how you do the research!" }, { "id": "t1_on4qwxi", "author": "/u/Mysterious-Plum-5859", "updated": "2026-05-21T21:10:22+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tdna9m/14_months_of_digital_products_on_etsy_real/on4qwxi/", "content": "Sorry not directly related but say you produce a budget template - do you copyright it and how so?" }, { "id": "t1_on55zqh", "author": "/u/Polish_Girlz", "updated": "2026-05-21T22:29:22+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tdna9m/14_months_of_digital_products_on_etsy_real/on55zqh/", "content": "Thats the sense i get from etsy. That you can make a few hundred $ a month from it but its not life changing. I just went back to my etsy shop (i do resumes and ms word docs)\n Honestly for 4 - 6 hrs a mont youre GOLDEN. Thats' amazing youre making that much money for so little work!" }, { "id": "t1_on7sen3", "author": "/u/Live-Garage-8196", "updated": "2026-05-22T09:37:27+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tdna9m/14_months_of_digital_products_on_etsy_real/on7sen3/", "content": "I have heard about people selling prompts on etsy and gumroad, do you have any insights about it and also what exactly were to selling and how to find such good selling ai digital products?" }, { "id": "t1_onqiiff", "author": "/u/P16092", "updated": "2026-05-25T05:41:34+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tdna9m/14_months_of_digital_products_on_etsy_real/onqiiff/", "content": "$20k a month seems to be kinda fake..." }, { "id": "t1_onrc1j4", "author": "/u/CheetahVast2711", "updated": "2026-05-25T09:55:10+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tdna9m/14_months_of_digital_products_on_etsy_real/onrc1j4/", "content": "Bro, how can i work with you? is it possible to learn and work with you?" }, { "id": "t1_onvu82k", "author": "/u/CoursePotential9296", "updated": "2026-05-26T00:28:55+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tdna9m/14_months_of_digital_products_on_etsy_real/onvu82k/", "content": "This is one of the most useful posts in this sub because the curve is real. Months 1-5 look like failure and most people quit there. The 80/20 on your catalog is also completely normal — I see the same thing with digital products outside Etsy, a small number of offers do the heavy lifting and the rest just exist. The keyword research insight at month 6 showing up in the growth acceleration is the most important data point in this whole post and most people will scroll past it. You essentially ran a 6 month experiment that proved demand research beats creative instinct every time. One thing I'm curious about — when you found the top 5 products, did you double down on variations of those specifically or keep diversifying into new categories?" }, { "id": "t1_oo7lr74", "author": "/u/ScarcityCrafty7151", "updated": "2026-05-27T17:26:30+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tdna9m/14_months_of_digital_products_on_etsy_real/oo7lr74/", "content": "[ Removed by Reddit ]" }, { "id": "t1_oojhyqz", "author": "/u/katie1999x", "updated": "2026-05-29T10:05:33+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tdna9m/14_months_of_digital_products_on_etsy_real/oojhyqz/", "content": "Thanks for this! I'm sick of seeing insane numbers. I just want to know if there's a decent side income." }, { "id": "t1_oowz688", "author": "/u/Scary-Sherbet1151", "updated": "2026-05-31T09:48:11+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tdna9m/14_months_of_digital_products_on_etsy_real/oowz688/", "content": "Thanks for the nice post.\n I can agree on this 100%. Never create the product first. Always analyze the market and then create based on a specific niche.\n Its ok and pretty normal that not all products sell the time. Its important to try and test which ones work.\n My biggest jump came from listening to my customers and getting feedback (most important). Based on that i created variants and now i have 7 selling variants of one product" }, { "id": "t1_oly0jpz", "author": "/u/RiffMasterB", "updated": "2026-05-15T13:13:38+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tdna9m/14_months_of_digital_products_on_etsy_real/oly0jpz/", "content": "Do you advertise on Etsy?" }, { "id": "t1_olzq45z", "author": "/u/Devvirat", "updated": "2026-05-15T18:03:19+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tdna9m/14_months_of_digital_products_on_etsy_real/olzq45z/", "content": "For the first eight months, nothing but organic search from Etsy. Afterwards, I experimented with Etsy paid advertising, using a very low budget of $1-$2 per day on just my top 3 listings. Some succeeded and others did not generate a return on investment. Pinterest generated traffic consistently through unpaid means." }, { "id": "t1_om4lquq", "author": "/u/Purple_Daisy2-0", "updated": "2026-05-16T13:20:42+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tdna9m/14_months_of_digital_products_on_etsy_real/om4lquq/", "content": "Was Pinterest a slow burn for you at first? I've been pinning my Etsy listings for several months and Pinterest only shows each of my pins to about 2 to 20 some people each." }, { "id": "t1_om5tu99", "author": "/u/Devvirat", "updated": "2026-05-16T17:07:24+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tdna9m/14_months_of_digital_products_on_etsy_real/om5tu99/", "content": "Absolutely, it has to be a very slow burn for at least two to three months. Pinterest is a search engine, not a social media feed where your pins are going to get indexed and continue appearing over and over again for months or even years. It is the accounts that have stopped their efforts in the second week or sixth week who have failed to understand the concept." }, { "id": "t1_omswrr6", "author": "/u/Worldly-Ad-9963", "updated": "2026-05-20T04:02:51+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tdna9m/14_months_of_digital_products_on_etsy_real/omswrr6/", "content": "Are you still advertising on Etsy or just decided against that?" } ] }, { "source": "r/passive_income top month", "id": "t3_1tb097a", "title": "Lottery Winner Opts To Get $1,000 A Week Instead Of $1 Million Lump Sum - Wise Move Or Lost Opportunity?", "author": "/u/novagridd", "updated": "2026-05-12T12:33:14+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tb097a/lottery_winner_opts_to_get_1000_a_week_instead_of/", "content": " submitted by /u/novagridd\n [link] [comments]", "contentHtml": "
\"Lottery submitted by /u/novagridd
[link] [comments]
", "comments": [ { "id": "t1_olczan6", "author": "/u/AutoModerator", "updated": "2026-05-12T12:33:14+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tb097a/lottery_winner_opts_to_get_1000_a_week_instead_of/olczan6/", "content": "Check out the Community Highlights for current and future Mod Vetted opportunities and Newsletter Episodes.\n Please do due diligence on any crypto opportunity. A simple google search could save you a fortune.\n I am a bot, and this action was performed automatically. Please contact the moderators of this subreddit if you have any questions or concerns." }, { "id": "t1_old0sue", "author": "/u/Gazcobain", "updated": "2026-05-12T12:41:29+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tb097a/lottery_winner_opts_to_get_1000_a_week_instead_of/old0sue/", "content": "This is an objectively terrible decision.\n You'd easily get a 5.2% return on a $1,000,000 investment which would give you $1,000 a week whilst still having $1,000,000 in your bank." }, { "id": "t1_old37fi", "author": "/u/SEND_ME_YOUR_ASSPICS", "updated": "2026-05-12T12:54:10+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tb097a/lottery_winner_opts_to_get_1000_a_week_instead_of/old37fi/", "content": "He's probably worried that he will spend it all in one go.\n There are lots of stories about people winning the lottery and going broke within several months or years." }, { "id": "t1_old9eaz", "author": "/u/hotmayonnaise", "updated": "2026-05-12T13:25:48+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tb097a/lottery_winner_opts_to_get_1000_a_week_instead_of/old9eaz/", "content": "Yea - pressure from people she knows to give them money; spiral into drugs or something with a big cash infusion." }, { "id": "t1_oldjdch", "author": "/u/Quack68", "updated": "2026-05-12T14:14:16+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tb097a/lottery_winner_opts_to_get_1000_a_week_instead_of/oldjdch/", "content": "That’s what I’m thinking. Now he has an excuse to give, I only get a $1k a week." }, { "id": "t1_olf7qbd", "author": "/u/Unique-Angle-1817", "updated": "2026-05-12T18:41:53+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tb097a/lottery_winner_opts_to_get_1000_a_week_instead_of/olf7qbd/", "content": "You’re absolutely right 💯" }, { "id": "t1_omgbknd", "author": "/u/ai-techguy001", "updated": "2026-05-18T09:25:42+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tb097a/lottery_winner_opts_to_get_1000_a_week_instead_of/omgbknd/", "content": "lol the built-in "sorry i'm not rich" defense is lowkey genius" }, { "id": "t1_olfstb3", "author": "/u/alextheruby", "updated": "2026-05-12T20:17:03+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tb097a/lottery_winner_opts_to_get_1000_a_week_instead_of/olfstb3/", "content": "Or grow some balls. I’m not taking a less favorable option because people might ask me for too much." }, { "id": "t1_oli3jiv", "author": "/u/Upbeat-Bear8993", "updated": "2026-05-13T03:46:26+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tb097a/lottery_winner_opts_to_get_1000_a_week_instead_of/oli3jiv/", "content": "Good thing it’s not you that won, then" }, { "id": "t1_olikl31", "author": "/u/alextheruby", "updated": "2026-05-13T05:52:17+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tb097a/lottery_winner_opts_to_get_1000_a_week_instead_of/olikl31/", "content": "Good thing it’s not you that won also. Lmao" }, { "id": "t1_olmkvan", "author": "/u/why_so_sirius_1", "updated": "2026-05-13T19:33:50+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tb097a/lottery_winner_opts_to_get_1000_a_week_instead_of/olmkvan/", "content": "but he didn’t give advice on what to do, you did" }, { "id": "t1_oldfr1u", "author": "/u/Unique-Angle-1817", "updated": "2026-05-12T13:57:12+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tb097a/lottery_winner_opts_to_get_1000_a_week_instead_of/oldfr1u/", "content": "Gotta stay away from those types of folks…" }, { "id": "t1_oldjqct", "author": "/u/panic_bread", "updated": "2026-05-12T14:15:57+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tb097a/lottery_winner_opts_to_get_1000_a_week_instead_of/oldjqct/", "content": "Maybe she IS that type of folk. If she knows her limits, that’s good." }, { "id": "t1_oldq1gt", "author": "/u/put_it_in_a_jar", "updated": "2026-05-12T14:44:46+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tb097a/lottery_winner_opts_to_get_1000_a_week_instead_of/oldq1gt/", "content": "A lot of people are unfortunately related to those types of folks......" }, { "id": "t1_olejka0", "author": "/u/fleshofgods0", "updated": "2026-05-12T16:55:19+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tb097a/lottery_winner_opts_to_get_1000_a_week_instead_of/olejka0/", "content": "Can you imagine if they might have a family member willing to commit identity theft?" }, { "id": "t1_oldwcec", "author": "/u/Unique-Angle-1817", "updated": "2026-05-12T15:12:44+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tb097a/lottery_winner_opts_to_get_1000_a_week_instead_of/oldwcec/", "content": "We all got em , and if that’s the path they choose, then that’s on them… There are consequences and repercussions in this world- sound decisions are critical to having some kind of decent life…😎 Pray for them- but don’t walk down the destructive path, just because they’re family…" }, { "id": "t1_ole34k9", "author": "/u/Ridonkulousley", "updated": "2026-05-12T15:42:34+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tb097a/lottery_winner_opts_to_get_1000_a_week_instead_of/ole34k9/", "content": "Easier said than done.\n My brother is this type. If I scored 7 figures I guarantee both my parents would hound me to feed him some money. Maybe this time he will get his food truck off the ground or pay for a car that works. That kind of pressure is hard to ignore for long periods of time. Even when you know you should." }, { "id": "t1_ole4bsi", "author": "/u/Unique-Angle-1817", "updated": "2026-05-12T15:47:47+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tb097a/lottery_winner_opts_to_get_1000_a_week_instead_of/ole4bsi/", "content": "Then they would get a one time payment for a particular amount, and if they fkd that up, I’d tell him, parents and anyone with a set of functioning fkn ears, don’t ask me for any more…EVER IN LIFE😎 !" }, { "id": "t1_ole4ny7", "author": "/u/Unique-Angle-1817", "updated": "2026-05-12T15:49:14+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tb097a/lottery_winner_opts_to_get_1000_a_week_instead_of/ole4ny7/", "content": "And it would not be a “kick back amount” , either 😂! Work that money, I put in your empty pockets 😎!" }, { "id": "t1_olfof01", "author": "/u/Unique-Angle-1817", "updated": "2026-05-12T19:57:10+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tb097a/lottery_winner_opts_to_get_1000_a_week_instead_of/olfof01/", "content": "I have a certain “sector” of family that I can’t fk with, because some of the sht they may still be involved with… Just because we share some of the same blood, don’t mean I gotta fk with you… I cannot support or be around sht that don’t make sense 😂! There’s help and there’s supporting grown ass people, and the latter gets help-ONCE…" }, { "id": "t1_olfua40", "author": "/u/Ridonkulousley", "updated": "2026-05-12T20:23:43+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tb097a/lottery_winner_opts_to_get_1000_a_week_instead_of/olfua40/", "content": "Def. Mine isn’t as cut and dry. My brother isn’t a “bad” person as much as just a shitty person and had with money." }, { "id": "t1_olkyekm", "author": "/u/Ok-Action3333", "updated": "2026-05-13T15:15:48+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tb097a/lottery_winner_opts_to_get_1000_a_week_instead_of/olkyekm/", "content": "Well now she’s got $1000 per week to spend on drugs for the rest of her life. That’s arguably worse." }, { "id": "t1_ollbxlx", "author": "/u/hotmayonnaise", "updated": "2026-05-13T16:15:23+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tb097a/lottery_winner_opts_to_get_1000_a_week_instead_of/ollbxlx/", "content": "Can't answer that - comes down to individual. Many more reasons to take the 1k than what I listed but they would all have to be personal since it is a poor financial decision by itself." }, { "id": "t1_oldavla", "author": "/u/the_rare_bear", "updated": "2026-05-12T13:33:14+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tb097a/lottery_winner_opts_to_get_1000_a_week_instead_of/oldavla/", "content": "With $1m, you can find a way to make it so you can only spend $1000 each week as your weekly limit." }, { "id": "t1_olf811h", "author": "/u/AskAboutMySecret", "updated": "2026-05-12T18:43:11+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tb097a/lottery_winner_opts_to_get_1000_a_week_instead_of/olf811h/", "content": "and yet plenty of people end up spending it all anyway" }, { "id": "t1_olhoxcy", "author": "/u/ljdelight", "updated": "2026-05-13T02:15:30+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tb097a/lottery_winner_opts_to_get_1000_a_week_instead_of/olhoxcy/", "content": "They're saying get a trustee to setup a trust to not allow access to the principle, allow only the interest to be moved" }, { "id": "t1_olsty84", "author": "/u/Original_Bicycle5696", "updated": "2026-05-14T17:40:44+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tb097a/lottery_winner_opts_to_get_1000_a_week_instead_of/olsty84/", "content": "I'd argue that if they knew that was an option, they wouldn't need the trustee in the first place." }, { "id": "t1_olthou2", "author": "/u/ljdelight", "updated": "2026-05-14T19:29:45+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tb097a/lottery_winner_opts_to_get_1000_a_week_instead_of/olthou2/", "content": "The argument was "can only spend 1000 a week", then the other person said that people Still go broke, and I'm just explaining there is a way to do it to "lock up" the money." }, { "id": "t1_oldt6fv", "author": "/u/Tyra3l", "updated": "2026-05-12T14:58:34+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tb097a/lottery_winner_opts_to_get_1000_a_week_instead_of/oldt6fv/", "content": "You could still set up a trust fund where you can't go broke.\n https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Spendthrift_trust" }, { "id": "t1_olhdetb", "author": "/u/Nevilles_Remembrall_", "updated": "2026-05-13T01:10:44+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tb097a/lottery_winner_opts_to_get_1000_a_week_instead_of/olhdetb/", "content": "Yeah this is actually smart of them if they have terrible spending habits and are aware of the issue. Good for them if so." }, { "id": "t1_om4xgrg", "author": "/u/spintowinasin", "updated": "2026-05-16T14:24:41+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tb097a/lottery_winner_opts_to_get_1000_a_week_instead_of/om4xgrg/", "content": "We already know that they gamble." }, { "id": "t1_olelaws", "author": "/u/Morning-Chub", "updated": "2026-05-12T17:02:45+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tb097a/lottery_winner_opts_to_get_1000_a_week_instead_of/olelaws/", "content": "Then take the money and spend $20k to set up a trust. Taking an annuity is stupid." }, { "id": "t1_ole48s7", "author": "/u/mm4444", "updated": "2026-05-12T15:47:25+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tb097a/lottery_winner_opts_to_get_1000_a_week_instead_of/ole48s7/", "content": "You just tell people you opted for $1000 a week but then do what the other commenter suggested and invest it all" }, { "id": "t1_olek7vv", "author": "/u/modermanehh", "updated": "2026-05-12T16:58:05+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tb097a/lottery_winner_opts_to_get_1000_a_week_instead_of/olek7vv/", "content": "She*" }, { "id": "t1_olfrt0n", "author": "/u/Mastakane", "updated": "2026-05-12T20:12:32+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tb097a/lottery_winner_opts_to_get_1000_a_week_instead_of/olfrt0n/", "content": "That’s would be one fancy record player!" }, { "id": "t1_oli45te", "author": "/u/BusyWorkinPete", "updated": "2026-05-13T03:50:35+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tb097a/lottery_winner_opts_to_get_1000_a_week_instead_of/oli45te/", "content": "Hookers and blow for the win" }, { "id": "t1_om6trbe", "author": "/u/BootlegBabyJsus", "updated": "2026-05-16T20:12:25+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tb097a/lottery_winner_opts_to_get_1000_a_week_instead_of/om6trbe/", "content": "This is the way..." }, { "id": "t1_olkdlrd", "author": "/u/Moidberg", "updated": "2026-05-13T13:38:56+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tb097a/lottery_winner_opts_to_get_1000_a_week_instead_of/olkdlrd/", "content": "taxes too\n damn I might actually take the weekly as well" }, { "id": "t1_olkprt0", "author": "/u/ledbedder20", "updated": "2026-05-13T14:36:38+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tb097a/lottery_winner_opts_to_get_1000_a_week_instead_of/olkprt0/", "content": "I thought too but it's WAY easier to spend $1,000 a week than $1mil" }, { "id": "t1_olozkiw", "author": "/u/OrcOgi", "updated": "2026-05-14T03:13:48+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tb097a/lottery_winner_opts_to_get_1000_a_week_instead_of/olozkiw/", "content": "Its easier to ruin 1k a week." }, { "id": "t1_old5j0y", "author": "/u/3eyedstudio", "updated": "2026-05-12T13:06:16+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tb097a/lottery_winner_opts_to_get_1000_a_week_instead_of/old5j0y/", "content": "she..." }, { "id": "t1_old7y4l", "author": "/u/P00rSuggestions", "updated": "2026-05-12T13:18:30+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tb097a/lottery_winner_opts_to_get_1000_a_week_instead_of/old7y4l/", "content": "is dumb" }, { "id": "t1_old2etl", "author": "/u/BlastPyro", "updated": "2026-05-12T12:50:01+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tb097a/lottery_winner_opts_to_get_1000_a_week_instead_of/old2etl/", "content": "If you are given a $1M lump sum you will not have $1M to invest. Depends on your state, but you might end up with somewhere around $600k.\n EDIT: As others have pointed out this is in Canada so both the monthly and lump sum payments are tax free." }, { "id": "t1_old347l", "author": "/u/InterestingDeer7588", "updated": "2026-05-12T12:53:42+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tb097a/lottery_winner_opts_to_get_1000_a_week_instead_of/old347l/", "content": "Its not taxable income in canada so full 1m" }, { "id": "t1_old4jfb", "author": "/u/hevo4ever-reddit", "updated": "2026-05-12T13:01:09+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tb097a/lottery_winner_opts_to_get_1000_a_week_instead_of/old4jfb/", "content": "A thousand dollars in the early 2000s didn’t have the same buying power as a thousand dollars today. If your money isn’t growing at the same pace as the economy, you’re effectively losing value ." }, { "id": "t1_old7x8f", "author": "/u/lol-true", "updated": "2026-05-12T13:18:23+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tb097a/lottery_winner_opts_to_get_1000_a_week_instead_of/old7x8f/", "content": "Sure, but thats the same for the 1000/week payout? THey don't increase the payouts to make sure it has the same buying power as 1000/week today... Honestly not sure of the point you're trying to make" }, { "id": "t1_oldefuf", "author": "/u/Critical_Success_936", "updated": "2026-05-12T13:50:56+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tb097a/lottery_winner_opts_to_get_1000_a_week_instead_of/oldefuf/", "content": "I think the point is you can put it in a brokerage to gain more value than it loses (theoretically) over time if you get it all at once." }, { "id": "t1_olehk8p", "author": "/u/JiuJitsuBoxer", "updated": "2026-05-12T16:46:35+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tb097a/lottery_winner_opts_to_get_1000_a_week_instead_of/olehk8p/", "content": "If your money isn’t growing at the same pace as the economy currency devaluation, you’re effectively losing value." }, { "id": "t1_old375j", "author": "/u/aethelberga", "updated": "2026-05-12T12:54:08+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tb097a/lottery_winner_opts_to_get_1000_a_week_instead_of/old375j/", "content": "If it's the story I'm thinking of, it's in Canada, so yes you do get the lot." }, { "id": "t1_old3c8u", "author": "/u/skandel", "updated": "2026-05-12T12:54:52+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tb097a/lottery_winner_opts_to_get_1000_a_week_instead_of/old3c8u/", "content": "This was in Canada. I don't think lottery winnings are taxed there" }, { "id": "t1_old9sae", "author": "/u/Gazcobain", "updated": "2026-05-12T13:27:45+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tb097a/lottery_winner_opts_to_get_1000_a_week_instead_of/old9sae/", "content": "They're not.\n An insane amount of people trying to wellakshooally here given they haven't even bothered to read the story and keep talking about the tax the US Government is going to take." }, { "id": "t1_olepnda", "author": "/u/magikttouch", "updated": "2026-05-12T17:21:35+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tb097a/lottery_winner_opts_to_get_1000_a_week_instead_of/olepnda/", "content": "The wise man spoke" }, { "id": "t1_om37hmv", "author": "/u/ai-techguy001", "updated": "2026-05-16T06:41:50+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tb097a/lottery_winner_opts_to_get_1000_a_week_instead_of/om37hmv/", "content": "yeah the tax hit changes the whole math, most people don't factor that in when they're screaming "take the lump sum"" }, { "id": "t1_old42qv", "author": "/u/stripesonfire", "updated": "2026-05-12T12:58:44+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tb097a/lottery_winner_opts_to_get_1000_a_week_instead_of/old42qv/", "content": "$600k after tax, 4%/year withdrawal rate is $2k/month pre tax. You’re still better off and that’s with a withdrawal rate that doesn’t touch the principal and no appreciation in value of the principal. The monthly payouts are a trap or for people that are smart enough to know they’ll spend the lump sum as soon as they get it" }, { "id": "t1_old7dhd", "author": "/u/D_Real_Dreal", "updated": "2026-05-12T13:15:36+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tb097a/lottery_winner_opts_to_get_1000_a_week_instead_of/old7dhd/", "content": "Its taxfree. Also its per week." }, { "id": "t1_oldlsbt", "author": "/u/stripesonfire", "updated": "2026-05-12T14:25:21+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tb097a/lottery_winner_opts_to_get_1000_a_week_instead_of/oldlsbt/", "content": "Ah missed per week. If you model it out and are disciplined you still come out ahead taking the lump sum" }, { "id": "t1_oldc4fh", "author": "/u/Limp_Combination4361", "updated": "2026-05-12T13:39:29+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tb097a/lottery_winner_opts_to_get_1000_a_week_instead_of/oldc4fh/", "content": "While objectively what you say is the smarter financial decision, this removes the human factor. The winner must know something about their self control that we do not. Or the people in their life that may come sniffing around for money\n The temptation to spend outside your means with 1 mil in the bank is VERY high and many lottery winners spend it all within a year or two.\n edit: I know how I am and I would want to Indulge a little, but otherwise he responsible. First order, pay off my debt. which isn't a lot in the grand scheme but I cannot pay it all off at once right now. Secondly take probably 100-120k and put it aside as 'emergency funds' for car repairs, new car, sudden unemployment where I can take a year or two to really hunt for a job. Thirdly take 50k for fun and entertainment. Then 4th would be invest the remainder (about 800k) and invest half in some lower yield but far lower risk accounts like CD's. then the other 400k I might play a little looser with in terms of investing. But still try to keep it safe. I'm not into the idea of risking things more for higher potential payout." }, { "id": "t1_oldccza", "author": "/u/Gazcobain", "updated": "2026-05-12T13:40:40+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tb097a/lottery_winner_opts_to_get_1000_a_week_instead_of/oldccza/", "content": "Or the third option, they are just thick at maths. Lots of people are. There's someone on this very topic claiming that 3 years at $1,000 a week will get them more than $1,000,000 anyway." }, { "id": "t1_olf8okd", "author": "/u/AskAboutMySecret", "updated": "2026-05-12T18:46:08+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tb097a/lottery_winner_opts_to_get_1000_a_week_instead_of/olf8okd/", "content": "theres being thick at maths and then theres being thick in general\n sounds like they mixed up days and weeks and did 365 x 1000 x 3" }, { "id": "t1_oldg5gx", "author": "/u/Limp_Combination4361", "updated": "2026-05-12T13:59:07+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tb097a/lottery_winner_opts_to_get_1000_a_week_instead_of/oldg5gx/", "content": "Oy. That's true." }, { "id": "t1_oldu1v0", "author": "/u/MovieSock", "updated": "2026-05-12T15:02:25+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tb097a/lottery_winner_opts_to_get_1000_a_week_instead_of/oldu1v0/", "content": "I actually know a lottery winner. They won $8million, which was at the time a record-setting payout for our state (this was back in 1989). They opted for the spread-out-over-time option (I think it was either annually or monthly, I forget what).\n Instead of setting it aside to "invest", they used it - to do things like fly the whole family to Poland so the winner's father could see his brother again for the first time in 45 years, or to pay for both their kids' college tuitions, and then pay for both kids' weddings, and I think they also all went to the Barcelona Olympics together; the husband then went into politics and served 20 years in the state legislature while the wife retired from nursing and became a court-appointed medical expert for trials.\n They didn't get a 5.2% return on their investment, no, but they got a 100% return on their quality of life." }, { "id": "t1_olkmu2t", "author": "/u/CALOTOVA", "updated": "2026-05-13T14:22:58+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tb097a/lottery_winner_opts_to_get_1000_a_week_instead_of/olkmu2t/", "content": "You didn’t make the point you seem to have wanted to.\n This doesnt prove a divided payout is better. They could have taken out significant amounts from their winning and leave the rest invested." }, { "id": "t1_olkn8fd", "author": "/u/MovieSock", "updated": "2026-05-13T14:24:49+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tb097a/lottery_winner_opts_to_get_1000_a_week_instead_of/olkn8fd/", "content": "And you, in turn, didn't address the question I have been posing.\n If they were already satisfied with the amount of money they were receiving with a divided payout....what is the point of investing any of it at all?\n If they already felt they had enough money, what was the point of getting more? To what use would it be applied?" }, { "id": "t1_ollmyds", "author": "/u/pts120", "updated": "2026-05-13T17:04:05+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tb097a/lottery_winner_opts_to_get_1000_a_week_instead_of/ollmyds/", "content": "the point is that the return on the quality of life applies also to the million option, you were indirectly suggesting that it doesn't which is incorrect\n they could have still flown the family to all the places\n in addition to that, with the rest invested, under the assumption that they don't need to spend more themselves, their family descendants will be set for the next generations not having to worry about any money in the future which is a huge plus" }, { "id": "t1_ollvnlr", "author": "/u/MovieSock", "updated": "2026-05-13T17:41:58+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tb097a/lottery_winner_opts_to_get_1000_a_week_instead_of/ollvnlr/", "content": "in addition to that, with the rest invested, under the assumption that they don't need to spend more themselves, their family descendants will be set for the next generations not having to worry about any money in the future which is a huge plus\n They were able to do that with the graduated payment plan though, which you've all been suggesting they wouldn't have been able to do. So...where is the advantage to a lump-sum payment again?" }, { "id": "t1_ollvvq7", "author": "/u/pts120", "updated": "2026-05-13T17:42:57+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tb097a/lottery_winner_opts_to_get_1000_a_week_instead_of/ollvvq7/", "content": "I didn't say that" }, { "id": "t1_ollwdu9", "author": "/u/MovieSock", "updated": "2026-05-13T17:45:07+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tb097a/lottery_winner_opts_to_get_1000_a_week_instead_of/ollwdu9/", "content": "Well, that's what we've been talking about, if you read all the stuff I was replying to before this. So if you were trying to argue along with those others it stands to reason that while you didn't say that, that you AGREE with them, yeah?" }, { "id": "t1_oly63cl", "author": "/u/SpookiestSzn", "updated": "2026-05-15T13:42:23+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tb097a/lottery_winner_opts_to_get_1000_a_week_instead_of/oly63cl/", "content": "Because over time the things they can buy weekly lessen with inflation while if you get the lump sum your money can invest and outpace inflation and you can still do all those things" }, { "id": "t1_olzcoid", "author": "/u/MovieSock", "updated": "2026-05-15T17:01:51+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tb097a/lottery_winner_opts_to_get_1000_a_week_instead_of/olzcoid/", "content": "Because over time the things they can buy weekly lessen with inflation\n Exactly how much of an inflation rate do you think there would BE that a $1million annual income wouldn't be enough?" }, { "id": "t1_olzih3s", "author": "/u/SpookiestSzn", "updated": "2026-05-15T17:28:18+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tb097a/lottery_winner_opts_to_get_1000_a_week_instead_of/olzih3s/", "content": "They weren't getting 1m a year from the payout lmao\n Either way they're leaving money on the table. Easy generational wealth squandered. They could double it easy in a couple years and then double it and then double it.\n If they invest right they could get 100m by the time they die enough money to guarantee several gens are good for life and enough to buy all those things and still profit." }, { "id": "t1_olzqcjn", "author": "/u/MovieSock", "updated": "2026-05-15T18:04:25+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tb097a/lottery_winner_opts_to_get_1000_a_week_instead_of/olzqcjn/", "content": "Or....they could decide they were okay with a little less generational wealth and do what they did.\n You know - I'm totally fascinated that you are just NOT GETTING the concept of someone deciding that the amount of money they already have is enough , and that they don't need to have any more. It's actually kind of sad." }, { "id": "t1_olzsg2c", "author": "/u/SpookiestSzn", "updated": "2026-05-15T18:14:25+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tb097a/lottery_winner_opts_to_get_1000_a_week_instead_of/olzsg2c/", "content": "What's sad is not leaving a legacy. Doesn't even have to be for their generation they could start a charity with the money they'd get from investments.\n Even if they didn't have kids they could do a scholarship with 1m and as long as it's invested even moderately smartly they'd be able to donate 50k forever to people. The more money they have the more they could provide help.\n Now they're going to die and maybe their kids will have some money and now their grand kids gotta work.\n All this and they don't even have to change their habits they just objectively are having a worse outcome for the family after them for no gain. If they actually gained anything maybe they literally didn't lmao" }, { "id": "t1_olzxpro", "author": "/u/MovieSock", "updated": "2026-05-15T18:39:38+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tb097a/lottery_winner_opts_to_get_1000_a_week_instead_of/olzxpro/", "content": "What's sad is not leaving a legacy. Doesn't even have to be for their generation they could start a charity with the money they'd get from investments.\n They already HAVE left a legacy. And they already DID make charitable donations.\n Even if they didn't have kids they could do a scholarship with 1m and as long as it's invested even moderately smartly they'd be able to donate 50k forever to people.\n Or they could do what they DID do is buy out a local restaurant and throw a gala for their town's Little League.\n Now they're going to die and maybe their kids will have some money and now their grand kids gotta work.\n One of them already DID die. Their grandkids are already set up because of what they already DID invest.\n All this and they don't even have to change their habits they just objectively are having a worse outcome for the family after them for no gain. If they actually gained anything maybe they literally didn't lmao\n I just told you that they did invest and their grandkids are fine rofl lmao" }, { "id": "t1_olfin0o", "author": "", "updated": "2026-05-12T19:31:04+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tb097a/lottery_winner_opts_to_get_1000_a_week_instead_of/olfin0o/", "content": "[deleted]" }, { "id": "t1_olfk0xk", "author": "/u/MovieSock", "updated": "2026-05-12T19:37:24+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tb097a/lottery_winner_opts_to_get_1000_a_week_instead_of/olfk0xk/", "content": "But if you already have enough money to do all that shit and still retire comfortably....why do you NEED to invest? What are you going to do with all that other money?" }, { "id": "t1_olfof8i", "author": "/u/voice-of-grass", "updated": "2026-05-12T19:57:12+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tb097a/lottery_winner_opts_to_get_1000_a_week_instead_of/olfof8i/", "content": "Sickly capitalistic mindset that poisons too many layers of society. Profit prioritized over everything. And if you tend to be more balanced, you are crazy because why would you rip yourself off/steal yourself out of more money???? It’s an insane way to live. The thing that propagates this is poor people that are deluded in thinking they will achieve that excess of wealth they seem to worship. Most people learn to appreciate “enough” when getting older, though." }, { "id": "t1_olg3a3t", "author": "", "updated": "2026-05-12T21:04:49+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tb097a/lottery_winner_opts_to_get_1000_a_week_instead_of/olg3a3t/", "content": "[deleted]" }, { "id": "t1_oljmwpj", "author": "/u/MovieSock", "updated": "2026-05-13T11:08:30+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tb097a/lottery_winner_opts_to_get_1000_a_week_instead_of/oljmwpj/", "content": "Or you could take less to begin with and enjoy what you got more." }, { "id": "t1_olg58me", "author": "/u/Fit_Caterpillar5396", "updated": "2026-05-12T21:14:06+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tb097a/lottery_winner_opts_to_get_1000_a_week_instead_of/olg58me/", "content": "That's like saying if all you need to sustain yourself is rice and grains why do you NEED to indulge on other food." }, { "id": "t1_oljmz4n", "author": "/u/MovieSock", "updated": "2026-05-13T11:08:57+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tb097a/lottery_winner_opts_to_get_1000_a_week_instead_of/oljmz4n/", "content": "It isn't, but thank you for playing, and as a parting gift here's a year's supply of Rice-a-roni!" }, { "id": "t1_oldfrxo", "author": "/u/deja2001", "updated": "2026-05-12T13:57:19+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tb097a/lottery_winner_opts_to_get_1000_a_week_instead_of/oldfrxo/", "content": "Where do you get these "easy" 5.2%? Most blue chip divided won't yield that much" }, { "id": "t1_om4jaet", "author": "/u/Advanced-Morning1832", "updated": "2026-05-16T13:06:19+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tb097a/lottery_winner_opts_to_get_1000_a_week_instead_of/om4jaet/", "content": "probably because they’re not relying on dividend and instead the average returns for the last 50 which are double that" }, { "id": "t1_old6qlb", "author": "/u/wesborland1234", "updated": "2026-05-12T13:12:22+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tb097a/lottery_winner_opts_to_get_1000_a_week_instead_of/old6qlb/", "content": "CD’s are paying about 4, so you’d have to invest it in something with some level of risk.\n But you’re right she’d probably get a much higher return than that average. But the market can crash next week too.\n Interest rates can go down to basically nothing during the next several decades.\n Risk has a cost.\n I wouldn’t call it “objectively” terrible considering she might have a low risk tolerance and would prefer the guarantee (assuming the lottery doesn’t stop paying)" }, { "id": "t1_oldkulj", "author": "/u/seanthenry", "updated": "2026-05-12T14:21:04+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tb097a/lottery_winner_opts_to_get_1000_a_week_instead_of/oldkulj/", "content": "If she placed it in an account paying 0% interest she could pull $1000 out weekly for 19yrs and 12 weeks.\n If she took half and invested it in CDs even earning 2% at the end of 9yrs it would have about 98K more or about 2 more years getting 1K a week." }, { "id": "t1_ole90da", "author": "/u/chloro9001", "updated": "2026-05-12T16:08:32+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tb097a/lottery_winner_opts_to_get_1000_a_week_instead_of/ole90da/", "content": "If this is true I think it points to the fact that taking the weekly payout is better then" }, { "id": "t1_oldb0ed", "author": "/u/bihari_baller", "updated": "2026-05-12T13:33:55+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tb097a/lottery_winner_opts_to_get_1000_a_week_instead_of/oldb0ed/", "content": "There are stable investments that you can do way better than 5.2%" }, { "id": "t1_ole8js9", "author": "/u/chloro9001", "updated": "2026-05-12T16:06:26+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tb097a/lottery_winner_opts_to_get_1000_a_week_instead_of/ole8js9/", "content": "Nope, but I’m guessing you are too young to see those easy returns turn into massive loses." }, { "id": "t1_ole8cly", "author": "/u/Mpnjackson555", "updated": "2026-05-12T16:05:32+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tb097a/lottery_winner_opts_to_get_1000_a_week_instead_of/ole8cly/", "content": "The issue with only needing 5.2% is that is taxed so that 52K is reduced, where if they take the weekly payout the 52K is tax free and would be closer to a gross salary of 80K in the province winner lives in" }, { "id": "t1_oldqty1", "author": "/u/Sanjomo", "updated": "2026-05-12T14:48:18+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tb097a/lottery_winner_opts_to_get_1000_a_week_instead_of/oldqty1/", "content": "Well… your lotto annuity payments earn interest too usually at 5%!!! If you choose the full payout it’s not the full ‘advertised jackpot’ it’s less because the jackpot figures 30 years of annuity.\n then there’s taxes! Taking a lump-sum payment is generally worse from a tax perspective because it subjects the entire winnings to the highest federal income tax bracket (37%) in a single year, Annuity payouts stretches payments allows you to pay tax only on the money received yearly which usually keeps you in lower brackets.\n Graduated Payments: Powerball annuities, for example, typically pay out in 30 graduated payments over 29 years, where each payment is 5% higher than the last to account for growth and inflation.\n Security: Annuities offer financial security, protecting winners from immediate overspending while ensuring the total prize payout is larger than the lump sum option." }, { "id": "t1_oldbrmq", "author": "", "updated": "2026-05-12T13:37:42+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tb097a/lottery_winner_opts_to_get_1000_a_week_instead_of/oldbrmq/", "content": "[deleted]" }, { "id": "t1_oldby81", "author": "/u/Gazcobain", "updated": "2026-05-12T13:38:37+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tb097a/lottery_winner_opts_to_get_1000_a_week_instead_of/oldby81/", "content": "Go and read the article, champ" }, { "id": "t1_oldnzhs", "author": "/u/Any-Lavishness341", "updated": "2026-05-12T14:35:25+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tb097a/lottery_winner_opts_to_get_1000_a_week_instead_of/oldnzhs/", "content": "Remember that they only get 600k if they get it lump sum since taxes…" }, { "id": "t1_ole4vzl", "author": "/u/Gazcobain", "updated": "2026-05-12T15:50:12+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tb097a/lottery_winner_opts_to_get_1000_a_week_instead_of/ole4vzl/", "content": "Do none of you guys know how to read?" }, { "id": "t1_oldolfk", "author": "/u/Simple-Choice-4265", "updated": "2026-05-12T14:38:11+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tb097a/lottery_winner_opts_to_get_1000_a_week_instead_of/oldolfk/", "content": "some people are really bad with money" }, { "id": "t1_oldpy7k", "author": "/u/kenny2812", "updated": "2026-05-12T14:44:21+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tb097a/lottery_winner_opts_to_get_1000_a_week_instead_of/oldpy7k/", "content": "The people that have the intelligence and self control to do this aren't buying lottery tickets!\n The lottery is a tax on dumb impulsive poor people." }, { "id": "t1_oldtb0o", "author": "/u/NotTurtleEnough", "updated": "2026-05-12T14:59:07+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tb097a/lottery_winner_opts_to_get_1000_a_week_instead_of/oldtb0o/", "content": "After taxes it would be just north of $600k at best." }, { "id": "t1_ole4srm", "author": "/u/Gazcobain", "updated": "2026-05-12T15:49:49+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tb097a/lottery_winner_opts_to_get_1000_a_week_instead_of/ole4srm/", "content": "Do none of you guys know how to read?" }, { "id": "t1_ole2g31", "author": "/u/lambdasintheoutfield", "updated": "2026-05-12T15:39:38+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tb097a/lottery_winner_opts_to_get_1000_a_week_instead_of/ole2g31/", "content": "1000% accurate, but the assumption is the person can psychologically manage that windfall with appropriate discipline as well as randos coming out of the woodwork to ask for favors.\n For the disciplined people who can keep that under wraps, absolutely take lump sum." }, { "id": "t1_ole4v50", "author": "/u/Effective_Role_8910", "updated": "2026-05-12T15:50:06+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tb097a/lottery_winner_opts_to_get_1000_a_week_instead_of/ole4v50/", "content": "But wouldn’t it turn into ~$600,000 after tax?" }, { "id": "t1_ole8jh1", "author": "/u/Gazcobain", "updated": "2026-05-12T16:06:24+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tb097a/lottery_winner_opts_to_get_1000_a_week_instead_of/ole8jh1/", "content": "Do none of you guys know how to read?" }, { "id": "t1_olec6nl", "author": "", "updated": "2026-05-12T16:22:35+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tb097a/lottery_winner_opts_to_get_1000_a_week_instead_of/olec6nl/", "content": "[deleted]" }, { "id": "t1_olfdlsa", "author": "/u/SignificantAd2833", "updated": "2026-05-12T19:08:13+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tb097a/lottery_winner_opts_to_get_1000_a_week_instead_of/olfdlsa/", "content": "This is probably a dumb question but I saw the same thing, but isn’t the whole point for you to click on it and actually get infected? I actually don’t know" }, { "id": "t1_ole9xoz", "author": "/u/awlnighter", "updated": "2026-05-12T16:12:38+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tb097a/lottery_winner_opts_to_get_1000_a_week_instead_of/ole9xoz/", "content": "Maybe they have bouts of mania? There are very few investments you can't cash out even if that means taking a penalty hit." }, { "id": "t1_olem8mh", "author": "/u/Patriot1124", "updated": "2026-05-12T17:06:50+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tb097a/lottery_winner_opts_to_get_1000_a_week_instead_of/olem8mh/", "content": "Even with only getting 600k still get about 2k a month" }, { "id": "t1_oley1su", "author": "/u/Awkward_Sympathy4475", "updated": "2026-05-12T17:57:57+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tb097a/lottery_winner_opts_to_get_1000_a_week_instead_of/oley1su/", "content": "Also no wealth left behind to successors. Also accidents will remove the payments." }, { "id": "t1_olf4y8p", "author": "/u/Big-Combination8844", "updated": "2026-05-12T18:28:58+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tb097a/lottery_winner_opts_to_get_1000_a_week_instead_of/olf4y8p/", "content": "You're assuming a person who plays the lottery is good with money. Most lottery winners are dead a or broke within a year or two of winning. This might be a good decision for some.\n Also, is this $1M after taxes? Otherwise it's not going to be close to $1M if you take the full sum." }, { "id": "t1_olfdpoc", "author": "/u/OsamaBinWhiskers", "updated": "2026-05-12T19:08:42+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tb097a/lottery_winner_opts_to_get_1000_a_week_instead_of/olfdpoc/", "content": "Lottery winners historically are the prime example of money management being 90% emotions 10% math" }, { "id": "t1_olfgl58", "author": "/u/voice-of-grass", "updated": "2026-05-12T19:21:47+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tb097a/lottery_winner_opts_to_get_1000_a_week_instead_of/olfgl58/", "content": "You’re underestimating the impulsiveness of the majority of people that play the lottery. Good on him for having the self awareness to opt for the lesser option to protect himself in the long run. You need a strong sense of discipline to let that money make money. If he knows he doesn’t have that discipline, then he is smarter for opting for the choice that suits him more." }, { "id": "t1_olfh1ya", "author": "/u/AlmightyKnownAsI", "updated": "2026-05-12T19:23:52+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tb097a/lottery_winner_opts_to_get_1000_a_week_instead_of/olfh1ya/", "content": "I do not know how it works in Canada but here in the US if you win 1M here you do not get 1m Taxes and such but would still be better to be liquid then structured." }, { "id": "t1_olg3kyh", "author": "/u/pardonmyignerance", "updated": "2026-05-12T21:06:11+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tb097a/lottery_winner_opts_to_get_1000_a_week_instead_of/olg3kyh/", "content": "What's the million look like after taxes though?" }, { "id": "t1_olg4jtt", "author": "/u/Fit_Caterpillar5396", "updated": "2026-05-12T21:10:48+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tb097a/lottery_winner_opts_to_get_1000_a_week_instead_of/olg4jtt/", "content": "After factoring in tax you're really looking at around 650k. There are tax advantages by getting it over time instead but I agree with you that $1m is better now. You don't know how laws are going to change and in 20 years that 1k per week is going to be very little with inflation." }, { "id": "t1_olgmbtj", "author": "/u/CompetitionNew751", "updated": "2026-05-12T22:41:38+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tb097a/lottery_winner_opts_to_get_1000_a_week_instead_of/olgmbtj/", "content": "This is the only correct answer." }, { "id": "t1_olhj0sc", "author": "/u/BigBossAtl", "updated": "2026-05-13T01:42:29+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tb097a/lottery_winner_opts_to_get_1000_a_week_instead_of/olhj0sc/", "content": "I bet the lottery could easily get 8-10% return while keeping the $1,000,000 and paying out the $1,000 a week." }, { "id": "t1_olhj80h", "author": "/u/miststeak", "updated": "2026-05-13T01:43:36+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tb097a/lottery_winner_opts_to_get_1000_a_week_instead_of/olhj80h/", "content": "Not necessarily when you account for taxes. $1M in a single tax year means you’re only taking home around $600k. Taking $52k annually, even when added to other typical income would result in a larger take home percentage. Current “safe” rates are closer to 3.3%, so it’s not necessarily a dumb move. With guaranteed income, you could presumable invest some of the weekly income more aggressively as well.\n For a savvy investor? Sure. For the average person? It’s not as compelling when you consider how many people go broke or just don’t know how to manage lump sums very well (most people don’t)." }, { "id": "t1_olinj44", "author": "/u/Gazcobain", "updated": "2026-05-13T06:15:58+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tb097a/lottery_winner_opts_to_get_1000_a_week_instead_of/olinj44/", "content": "I am convinced that you guys are at it. Can none of you read?\n This is in Canada. There aren't taxes." }, { "id": "t1_olinjx2", "author": "/u/Gazcobain", "updated": "2026-05-13T06:16:09+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tb097a/lottery_winner_opts_to_get_1000_a_week_instead_of/olinjx2/", "content": "I am convinced that you guys are at it. Can none of you read?\n This is in Canada. There aren't taxes." }, { "id": "t1_olhn69j", "author": "/u/Mtolivepickle", "updated": "2026-05-13T02:05:48+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tb097a/lottery_winner_opts_to_get_1000_a_week_instead_of/olhn69j/", "content": "They wouldn’t have got 1 million, probably 600k after taxes, leaving them with approximately 579$ per week pretax, if it was invested in an asset(s) yielding 5% annually." }, { "id": "t1_oljpvhw", "author": "/u/Dizzy_Key_7400", "updated": "2026-05-13T11:28:00+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tb097a/lottery_winner_opts_to_get_1000_a_week_instead_of/oljpvhw/", "content": "But in the USA wouldn’t that $1,000,000 only actually get them something stupid like $400,000 in the bank after taxes?" }, { "id": "t1_oll0flp", "author": "/u/lrobb09", "updated": "2026-05-13T15:24:51+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tb097a/lottery_winner_opts_to_get_1000_a_week_instead_of/oll0flp/", "content": "I agree it’s not the right move but the $1MM is not tax free and if taxed as ordinary income it instantly becomes $600k" }, { "id": "t1_oll37d1", "author": "/u/Gazcobain", "updated": "2026-05-13T15:37:00+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tb097a/lottery_winner_opts_to_get_1000_a_week_instead_of/oll37d1/", "content": "I am convinced you guys are at it." }, { "id": "t1_omebdls", "author": "/u/WhichHoes", "updated": "2026-05-18T00:15:55+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tb097a/lottery_winner_opts_to_get_1000_a_week_instead_of/omebdls/", "content": "This was in Canada, where it will be tax free. If the million is invested, then there is tax on the earnings." }, { "id": "t1_olllzsv", "author": "/u/RareMushroomStamp", "updated": "2026-05-13T16:59:54+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tb097a/lottery_winner_opts_to_get_1000_a_week_instead_of/olllzsv/", "content": "You don’t get $1M. The payout will be taxed at the marginal rate of 37% federally plus additional taxes for the state." }, { "id": "t1_ollz7p0", "author": "/u/Whoopsy101", "updated": "2026-05-13T17:57:03+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tb097a/lottery_winner_opts_to_get_1000_a_week_instead_of/ollz7p0/", "content": "Taxes" }, { "id": "t1_olm2j2w", "author": "/u/Zealousideal-Win5834", "updated": "2026-05-13T18:11:42+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tb097a/lottery_winner_opts_to_get_1000_a_week_instead_of/olm2j2w/", "content": "Half that after taxes" }, { "id": "t1_olma038", "author": "/u/Nice_Masterpiece_869", "updated": "2026-05-13T18:44:54+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tb097a/lottery_winner_opts_to_get_1000_a_week_instead_of/olma038/", "content": "After taxes, he’d only get around 400,000. So to make 52,000 a year, they’d need to make 13% annual return" }, { "id": "t1_oloybg3", "author": "/u/DreadnaughtHamster", "updated": "2026-05-14T03:06:27+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tb097a/lottery_winner_opts_to_get_1000_a_week_instead_of/oloybg3/", "content": "Serious question: what would you put a mil into for a 5.2% return? Best I’ve been able to see is an average of about 3.5%-4%?" }, { "id": "t1_olq1zrq", "author": "/u/Imjerfj", "updated": "2026-05-14T08:18:02+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tb097a/lottery_winner_opts_to_get_1000_a_week_instead_of/olq1zrq/", "content": "but you dont get $1m- govt takes more than half. 1m is just what you get from the company" }, { "id": "t1_olrnh1n", "author": "/u/tramplemestilsken", "updated": "2026-05-14T14:28:46+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tb097a/lottery_winner_opts_to_get_1000_a_week_instead_of/olrnh1n/", "content": "She wouldn’t get 1 mil, after taxes it’s more like 400,000k, but still, she could make investment returns on that. Turns out lottery winners aren’t the smartest with finances." }, { "id": "t1_olt571s", "author": "/u/Esahh_Doo", "updated": "2026-05-14T18:31:26+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tb097a/lottery_winner_opts_to_get_1000_a_week_instead_of/olt571s/", "content": "Can someome point me towards a bank giving you 5.2% returns" }, { "id": "t1_oly39t5", "author": "/u/GoblinGreen_", "updated": "2026-05-15T13:27:51+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tb097a/lottery_winner_opts_to_get_1000_a_week_instead_of/oly39t5/", "content": "where do you "easily" get 5.2% with no risk of it actually going down?" }, { "id": "t1_olyjgfd", "author": "/u/PrestigiousCod5629", "updated": "2026-05-15T14:46:55+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tb097a/lottery_winner_opts_to_get_1000_a_week_instead_of/olyjgfd/", "content": "Don’t forget about taxes, not sure how it works in Canada but in the US you immediately lose about 40% of your winnings due to taxes.\n Now you’re looking at $52k a year guaranteed or about $30k a year based off interest payments without paying the principal.\n You will of course need to pay additional taxes on both the weekly lottery payments and interest payments." }, { "id": "t1_olys6vb", "author": "/u/Lucky_Chaarmss", "updated": "2026-05-15T15:27:17+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tb097a/lottery_winner_opts_to_get_1000_a_week_instead_of/olys6vb/", "content": "On exactly $1m or after taxes after taken out because it won't be $1m?" }, { "id": "t1_om13rtm", "author": "/u/Dr-McLuvin", "updated": "2026-05-15T22:10:28+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tb097a/lottery_winner_opts_to_get_1000_a_week_instead_of/om13rtm/", "content": "Yes but you’re forgetting about taxes. After lump sum you’d only have maybe 600k to invest.\n It’s usually still better to take the lump sum as long as you invest it wisely." }, { "id": "t1_om1gt00", "author": "/u/d1ll1gaf", "updated": "2026-05-15T23:26:25+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tb097a/lottery_winner_opts_to_get_1000_a_week_instead_of/om1gt00/", "content": "Lottery winnings in Canada are tax free, investment returns are not. So you actually need a higher rate of return to cover the capital gains taxes." }, { "id": "t1_om4bqfd", "author": "/u/Accomplished-Plan191", "updated": "2026-05-16T12:19:48+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tb097a/lottery_winner_opts_to_get_1000_a_week_instead_of/om4bqfd/", "content": "But with tax considerations?" }, { "id": "t1_om5v1p1", "author": "/u/Einder", "updated": "2026-05-16T17:13:22+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tb097a/lottery_winner_opts_to_get_1000_a_week_instead_of/om5v1p1/", "content": "Objectively speaking, after the Government takes their cut, you will never see a full $1,000,000. So being able to invest it to get the $1,000 a week, won't happen, as you can't invest money you don't have. However, if you take the $1,000 a week, the Government get a significantly smaller cut, putting more of the money in your pocket.\n Reality is, it's the smarter move to make." }, { "id": "t1_om5xkex", "author": "/u/Gazcobain", "updated": "2026-05-16T17:25:52+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tb097a/lottery_winner_opts_to_get_1000_a_week_instead_of/om5xkex/", "content": "Which Government are you talking about?" }, { "id": "t1_om61ib9", "author": "/u/Einder", "updated": "2026-05-16T17:45:26+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tb097a/lottery_winner_opts_to_get_1000_a_week_instead_of/om61ib9/", "content": "I live in the US, so we can use it. Windfall tax applies to lottery winnings, which iirc is 60% here." }, { "id": "t1_om64ep1", "author": "/u/Gazcobain", "updated": "2026-05-16T17:59:46+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tb097a/lottery_winner_opts_to_get_1000_a_week_instead_of/om64ep1/", "content": "The winner of this is one of the tens of people around the world who don't live in the US. A simple fact which a staggering number of people haven't bothered to read" }, { "id": "t1_om6suia", "author": "/u/New-Natural-9288", "updated": "2026-05-16T20:07:38+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tb097a/lottery_winner_opts_to_get_1000_a_week_instead_of/om6suia/", "content": "Top federal tax bracket is 37%? Maybe in California with the state tax, you get close to 50%." }, { "id": "t1_om70gob", "author": "/u/EquityValues", "updated": "2026-05-16T20:48:06+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tb097a/lottery_winner_opts_to_get_1000_a_week_instead_of/om70gob/", "content": "Well in both instances you are not getting full comps. You won't get a 1m and you won't get 1k a week. Taxes will eat both and I'm not an expert but you'd have to file quarterly the rest of your life for that 1k a week or incur penalties which would be an automatic give me the lump." }, { "id": "t1_om70ry6", "author": "/u/Gazcobain", "updated": "2026-05-16T20:49:46+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tb097a/lottery_winner_opts_to_get_1000_a_week_instead_of/om70ry6/", "content": "Which taxes would these be?" }, { "id": "t1_om730kx", "author": "/u/EquityValues", "updated": "2026-05-16T21:01:41+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tb097a/lottery_winner_opts_to_get_1000_a_week_instead_of/om730kx/", "content": "I believe you could have taxes withheld from your 1k a week and it'd be just counted as income.\n Which could easily move you up in tax bracket for life. You'd pay federally and state." }, { "id": "t1_ombfd7t", "author": "/u/manic_eye", "updated": "2026-05-17T14:59:01+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tb097a/lottery_winner_opts_to_get_1000_a_week_instead_of/ombfd7t/", "content": "terrible decision\n It’s really not. Easiest way to see is this is she essentially has a Government of Quebec long term bond yielding around 7% (before tax equivalent since these are tax free payments). Long term Quebec bonds are yielding 3.5-4%. Her “bond” is worth a hell of a lot more than $1m right now." }, { "id": "t1_omc3ud5", "author": "/u/snakesandsparklers40", "updated": "2026-05-17T17:00:23+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tb097a/lottery_winner_opts_to_get_1000_a_week_instead_of/omc3ud5/", "content": "Except if its in america you dont get a million. After taxes taking a lump sum will net you about 500k. If you take the 1k a week in the end you will get closer to 900k. Plus if anything ever happens they have 4k a month to rely on. I would absolutely take the weekly payment as well especially on a win that small" }, { "id": "t1_omct6n3", "author": "/u/MeatServo1", "updated": "2026-05-17T19:13:05+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tb097a/lottery_winner_opts_to_get_1000_a_week_instead_of/omct6n3/", "content": "Taxes are a thing. Progressive tax rates are too." }, { "id": "t1_omctfyb", "author": "/u/Gazcobain", "updated": "2026-05-17T19:14:23+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tb097a/lottery_winner_opts_to_get_1000_a_week_instead_of/omctfyb/", "content": "I swear you guys must be at it." }, { "id": "t1_omlk6uh", "author": "/u/EpsteinClient4547", "updated": "2026-05-19T02:33:09+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tb097a/lottery_winner_opts_to_get_1000_a_week_instead_of/omlk6uh/", "content": "Yeah but you'd only start at like 630,000 after taxes." }, { "id": "t1_oo1lv8d", "author": "/u/Beatsjunkie", "updated": "2026-05-26T20:46:49+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tb097a/lottery_winner_opts_to_get_1000_a_week_instead_of/oo1lv8d/", "content": "Further if you don’t live a long life they don’t pay out." }, { "id": "t1_oleq4ry", "author": "/u/fuckit5555553", "updated": "2026-05-12T17:23:41+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tb097a/lottery_winner_opts_to_get_1000_a_week_instead_of/oleq4ry/", "content": "But what’s left after taxes on the million." }, { "id": "t1_olez12k", "author": "/u/Gazcobain", "updated": "2026-05-12T18:02:16+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tb097a/lottery_winner_opts_to_get_1000_a_week_instead_of/olez12k/", "content": "Can none of you guys read?" }, { "id": "t1_olf2fe3", "author": "/u/wiilbehung", "updated": "2026-05-12T18:17:19+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tb097a/lottery_winner_opts_to_get_1000_a_week_instead_of/olf2fe3/", "content": "I’m sure the million is taxed pretty significantly depending on where you are." }, { "id": "t1_olf3ios", "author": "/u/octopuswildernesscat", "updated": "2026-05-12T18:22:10+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tb097a/lottery_winner_opts_to_get_1000_a_week_instead_of/olf3ios/", "content": "Taxes ?" }, { "id": "t1_olf7amk", "author": "/u/lookachoo", "updated": "2026-05-12T18:39:58+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tb097a/lottery_winner_opts_to_get_1000_a_week_instead_of/olf7amk/", "content": "You’d only get half of the million though after taxes" }, { "id": "t1_olfk72z", "author": "/u/Pinoybl", "updated": "2026-05-12T19:38:11+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tb097a/lottery_winner_opts_to_get_1000_a_week_instead_of/olfk72z/", "content": "This is assuming a lot.\n You’re good at managing money.\n Which the vast majority of people are not.\n Just like saying it’s better to be lean and muscular rather than a fat ass.\n But 3/4 of America is overweight. 🤣" }, { "id": "t1_omjw6lt", "author": "/u/zoppaTheDim", "updated": "2026-05-18T20:58:33+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tb097a/lottery_winner_opts_to_get_1000_a_week_instead_of/omjw6lt/", "content": "In the uk\n In the us, they tax gambling winnings." }, { "id": "t1_omkfbh8", "author": "/u/Gazcobain", "updated": "2026-05-18T22:38:34+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tb097a/lottery_winner_opts_to_get_1000_a_week_instead_of/omkfbh8/", "content": "Do us a wee favour lad and tell us what part of the US this happened in" }, { "id": "t1_omkikb4", "author": "/u/zoppaTheDim", "updated": "2026-05-18T22:57:02+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tb097a/lottery_winner_opts_to_get_1000_a_week_instead_of/omkikb4/", "content": "Sure looks like a pair of dollar signs in that headline." }, { "id": "t1_omkisrf", "author": "/u/Gazcobain", "updated": "2026-05-18T22:58:23+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tb097a/lottery_winner_opts_to_get_1000_a_week_instead_of/omkisrf/", "content": "Can you think of any other countries in the world that call their currency dollars?\n Hint: one is immediately to the North of the USA." }, { "id": "t1_oldqt8t", "author": "/u/largos7289", "updated": "2026-05-12T14:48:13+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tb097a/lottery_winner_opts_to_get_1000_a_week_instead_of/oldqt8t/", "content": "Ha you forget taxes my guy... by the time they are done with you, you would be lucky to have 500k. The lump sum gets taxed very heavily. Federal alone is about 37% tax rate on winnings and the state hasn't' taken their cut yet. State taxes vary but Places like NY have a 9% tax rate. So by the time all is said and done with the million your at 554k. With the 1000 a week you are taxed normally. A million bucks doesn't mean sh*t today." }, { "id": "t1_oldt31m", "author": "/u/inksaywhat", "updated": "2026-05-12T14:58:09+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tb097a/lottery_winner_opts_to_get_1000_a_week_instead_of/oldt31m/", "content": "Lotto winnings are not taxed in Canada my guy." }, { "id": "t1_olduxf2", "author": "/u/Gazcobain", "updated": "2026-05-12T15:06:20+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tb097a/lottery_winner_opts_to_get_1000_a_week_instead_of/olduxf2/", "content": "I didn't forget taxes "my guy", I'm one of the few people who actually bothered to read the article and saw it was in Canada, and therefore taxes aren't applicable." }, { "id": "t1_olejuw2", "author": "/u/ButtonSpiritual3755", "updated": "2026-05-12T16:56:35+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tb097a/lottery_winner_opts_to_get_1000_a_week_instead_of/olejuw2/", "content": "It wouldn't be a $1M investment. After taxes, probably closer to $500K." }, { "id": "t1_oleyzea", "author": "/u/Gazcobain", "updated": "2026-05-12T18:02:03+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tb097a/lottery_winner_opts_to_get_1000_a_week_instead_of/oleyzea/", "content": "Can none of you guys read?" }, { "id": "t1_old8gbb", "author": "/u/goztepe2002", "updated": "2026-05-12T13:21:04+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tb097a/lottery_winner_opts_to_get_1000_a_week_instead_of/old8gbb/", "content": "You clearly have no clue what you are talking about, when you receive 1m in income you immediately get into the highest tax bracket and i believe 40% of that will be taxed depending on the state, 600k in the hands of some financially illiterate person can disappear over night really and also family and friends coming forward to ask for money and ruin your life.\n Sometimes slow and steady is better." }, { "id": "t1_old8zy4", "author": "/u/Gazcobain", "updated": "2026-05-12T13:23:49+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tb097a/lottery_winner_opts_to_get_1000_a_week_instead_of/old8zy4/", "content": "Have you even read the story, champ?\n She's in Canada. She doesn't get taxed. Lottery winnings aren't taxed in Canada." }, { "id": "t1_oldbfo7", "author": "/u/goztepe2002", "updated": "2026-05-12T13:36:02+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tb097a/lottery_winner_opts_to_get_1000_a_week_instead_of/oldbfo7/", "content": "well in that case, she is too conservative but some risks still remain, most people don't know how to manage money, not even putting money in a high yield savings account and also every family has them, some members will come for some of that money and ruin relationships.\n 1m isn't fuck you money by any means in this day but if you receive 1k guaranteed for rest of your life, you are pretty much financially free and risk free of losing that money rapidly." }, { "id": "t1_old1ziy", "author": "/u/polysaas", "updated": "2026-05-12T12:47:47+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tb097a/lottery_winner_opts_to_get_1000_a_week_instead_of/old1ziy/", "content": "Not sure how much less of the lump sum you’d get, but you’re not getting the full amount." }, { "id": "t1_old5n04", "author": "/u/RealCanadianMonkey", "updated": "2026-05-12T13:06:50+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tb097a/lottery_winner_opts_to_get_1000_a_week_instead_of/old5n04/", "content": "Yes you get full amount in Canada. We are not a fascist regime." }, { "id": "t1_old5v34", "author": "/u/wesborland1234", "updated": "2026-05-12T13:08:00+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tb097a/lottery_winner_opts_to_get_1000_a_week_instead_of/old5v34/", "content": "lol taxes arent fascism and your taxes are higher for everything else." }, { "id": "t1_old8943", "author": "/u/RealCanadianMonkey", "updated": "2026-05-12T13:20:04+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tb097a/lottery_winner_opts_to_get_1000_a_week_instead_of/old8943/", "content": "Your country is fascist. A medical emergency could bankrupt you." }, { "id": "t1_oldb7nw", "author": "/u/SBoySEA", "updated": "2026-05-12T13:34:54+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tb097a/lottery_winner_opts_to_get_1000_a_week_instead_of/oldb7nw/", "content": "If the USA is fascist, then they are worst fascists in history. Like a 1 out of 10 of fascist effectiveness." }, { "id": "t1_oldcjk3", "author": "/u/RealCanadianMonkey", "updated": "2026-05-12T13:41:34+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tb097a/lottery_winner_opts_to_get_1000_a_week_instead_of/oldcjk3/", "content": "Okay Boris." }, { "id": "t1_oldeni1", "author": "/u/SBoySEA", "updated": "2026-05-12T13:51:57+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tb097a/lottery_winner_opts_to_get_1000_a_week_instead_of/oldeni1/", "content": "That would be a communist insult." }, { "id": "t1_olegx0u", "author": "/u/RealCanadianMonkey", "updated": "2026-05-12T16:43:42+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tb097a/lottery_winner_opts_to_get_1000_a_week_instead_of/olegx0u/", "content": "Sorry, I meant Klaus." }, { "id": "t1_oli67mj", "author": "/u/SBoySEA", "updated": "2026-05-13T04:04:37+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tb097a/lottery_winner_opts_to_get_1000_a_week_instead_of/oli67mj/", "content": "There we go, that's much better." }, { "id": "t1_oldhva5", "author": "/u/ShermansWorld", "updated": "2026-05-12T14:07:19+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tb097a/lottery_winner_opts_to_get_1000_a_week_instead_of/oldhva5/", "content": "yes, but our taxes do actually pay for things that the public uses, roads, and other infra.\n I've driven thru the US; gawd, some of the roads are crap, and those areas don't have freeze thaw cycle. Bridges are scary too.\n Oh... and our women have babies; they get paid for mat leave and the hospital dosent send you a bill after birth." }, { "id": "t1_oldrgto", "author": "/u/4everadumdum", "updated": "2026-05-12T14:51:06+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tb097a/lottery_winner_opts_to_get_1000_a_week_instead_of/oldrgto/", "content": "Our women don't have babies. This is why we are importing Indians." }, { "id": "t1_old5olh", "author": "/u/IamSmokee", "updated": "2026-05-12T13:07:04+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tb097a/lottery_winner_opts_to_get_1000_a_week_instead_of/old5olh/", "content": "You are getting the full amount here in Canada, it's not taxed. If you win the money, you win all of it" }, { "id": "t1_old7k34", "author": "/u/HS_1990", "updated": "2026-05-12T13:16:31+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tb097a/lottery_winner_opts_to_get_1000_a_week_instead_of/old7k34/", "content": "You sre leaving Uncle sam cut" }, { "id": "t1_old8qzx", "author": "/u/Gazcobain", "updated": "2026-05-12T13:22:34+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tb097a/lottery_winner_opts_to_get_1000_a_week_instead_of/old8qzx/", "content": "What's Uncle Sam got to do with this person's winnings?" }, { "id": "t1_oldfhni", "author": "/u/TelevisionMelodic340", "updated": "2026-05-12T13:55:59+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tb097a/lottery_winner_opts_to_get_1000_a_week_instead_of/oldfhni/", "content": "It's Canada, my dude. Uncle Sam doesn't tax us." }, { "id": "t1_ole34d9", "author": "/u/HS_1990", "updated": "2026-05-12T15:42:33+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tb097a/lottery_winner_opts_to_get_1000_a_week_instead_of/ole34d9/", "content": "Oh, I thought it's USA and you have to pay taxes on it. Didn't know that Canda don't tax the winners" }, { "id": "t1_ole64sk", "author": "/u/TelevisionMelodic340", "updated": "2026-05-12T15:55:37+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tb097a/lottery_winner_opts_to_get_1000_a_week_instead_of/ole64sk/", "content": "The first sentence with “a young woman in canada” was kind of a giveaway on location …" }, { "id": "t1_oleal94", "author": "/u/HS_1990", "updated": "2026-05-12T16:15:30+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tb097a/lottery_winner_opts_to_get_1000_a_week_instead_of/oleal94/", "content": "I also didn't know that Canda doesn't tax." }, { "id": "t1_old44wh", "author": "/u/SpiderSilva", "updated": "2026-05-12T12:59:02+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tb097a/lottery_winner_opts_to_get_1000_a_week_instead_of/old44wh/", "content": "A reddit post based off of an article based off of a reddit post based off of an article." }, { "id": "t1_oldavz8", "author": "/u/Gazcobain", "updated": "2026-05-12T13:33:17+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tb097a/lottery_winner_opts_to_get_1000_a_week_instead_of/oldavz8/", "content": "I'm an article playing an article disguised as another article!" }, { "id": "t1_olev3at", "author": "/u/Slowmac123", "updated": "2026-05-12T17:45:09+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tb097a/lottery_winner_opts_to_get_1000_a_week_instead_of/olev3at/", "content": "Never go full repost" }, { "id": "t1_olf4u5a", "author": "/u/GoneAWOL1", "updated": "2026-05-12T18:28:25+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tb097a/lottery_winner_opts_to_get_1000_a_week_instead_of/olf4u5a/", "content": "Repost-ception!" }, { "id": "t1_olftmua", "author": "/u/RustedRelics", "updated": "2026-05-12T20:20:46+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tb097a/lottery_winner_opts_to_get_1000_a_week_instead_of/olftmua/", "content": "Repost full, never go - Yoda" }, { "id": "t1_olmqgpd", "author": "/u/GrumpyGlasses", "updated": "2026-05-13T19:59:38+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tb097a/lottery_winner_opts_to_get_1000_a_week_instead_of/olmqgpd/", "content": "Re-Yoda, post, go!" }, { "id": "t1_olju4xf", "author": "/u/TechnicallyThrowawai", "updated": "2026-05-13T11:54:24+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tb097a/lottery_winner_opts_to_get_1000_a_week_instead_of/olju4xf/", "content": "I don't drop articles til I've done the repost commentary" }, { "id": "t1_olgh1x7", "author": "/u/Osprey4862", "updated": "2026-05-12T22:13:09+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tb097a/lottery_winner_opts_to_get_1000_a_week_instead_of/olgh1x7/", "content": "I've seen a reddit comment... https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/s/G7kMQ92jpv" }, { "id": "t1_olku7qn", "author": "/u/Commercial_Painting6", "updated": "2026-05-13T14:56:52+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tb097a/lottery_winner_opts_to_get_1000_a_week_instead_of/olku7qn/", "content": "https://giphy.com/gifs/YLghfz0W895Ty" }, { "id": "t1_olt99fy", "author": "/u/Conscious-Mouse-1631", "updated": "2026-05-14T18:50:16+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tb097a/lottery_winner_opts_to_get_1000_a_week_instead_of/olt99fy/", "content": "That was well articulated." }, { "id": "t1_om5yjvk", "author": "/u/WWDubs12TTV", "updated": "2026-05-16T17:30:49+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tb097a/lottery_winner_opts_to_get_1000_a_week_instead_of/om5yjvk/", "content": "Wise move, or lost opportunity?" }, { "id": "t1_old30jf", "author": "/u/ryuk33", "updated": "2026-05-12T12:53:11+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tb097a/lottery_winner_opts_to_get_1000_a_week_instead_of/old30jf/", "content": "Well, the lottery company may not exist in the future. Poor choice. 600k managed well is life changing" }, { "id": "t1_old6cxw", "author": "/u/mkultrahigh", "updated": "2026-05-12T13:10:29+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tb097a/lottery_winner_opts_to_get_1000_a_week_instead_of/old6cxw/", "content": "Its loto quebec. Government run lottery... it will always exist." }, { "id": "t1_oldbuk2", "author": "/u/SexOnABurningPlanet", "updated": "2026-05-12T13:38:06+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tb097a/lottery_winner_opts_to_get_1000_a_week_instead_of/oldbuk2/", "content": "And if the government no longer exists, then you got much, much bigger problems." }, { "id": "t1_olddh8a", "author": "/u/UncommercializedKat", "updated": "2026-05-12T13:46:16+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tb097a/lottery_winner_opts_to_get_1000_a_week_instead_of/olddh8a/", "content": "If the government collapses, you can take your money and go elsewhere. But it doesn't need to collapse to be bad. If the government inflates the currency it would erode your buying power fast. The $1M can be invested in assets to protect against inflation.\n People like this and people who hold cash are the ones who lose their buying power to fund the government's excess spending." }, { "id": "t1_oldf8sr", "author": "/u/jasonjk1", "updated": "2026-05-12T13:54:47+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tb097a/lottery_winner_opts_to_get_1000_a_week_instead_of/oldf8sr/", "content": "Without go'nt how will they withdraw the money from the bank? It's no longer guaranteed." }, { "id": "t1_olnw9uk", "author": "/u/Melodic-Structure243", "updated": "2026-05-13T23:32:07+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tb097a/lottery_winner_opts_to_get_1000_a_week_instead_of/olnw9uk/", "content": "exactly people just say anything on here" }, { "id": "t1_olebirb", "author": "/u/SexOnABurningPlanet", "updated": "2026-05-12T16:19:38+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tb097a/lottery_winner_opts_to_get_1000_a_week_instead_of/olebirb/", "content": "Sorry, I meant the state. But I think you took my meaning.\n If someone sees this coming, then fine; maybe they have an off-the-grid stronghold in the mountains or something. But if a stable state like Canada collapses, then I'm guessing the rest of the world isn't doing so great either. There's nowhere to run to; even the rich will have limited options." }, { "id": "t1_olflhkg", "author": "/u/Reversi8", "updated": "2026-05-12T19:44:02+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tb097a/lottery_winner_opts_to_get_1000_a_week_instead_of/olflhkg/", "content": "Well US invasion certainly wouldn’t be impossible , and much of the world would be fine still in that case." }, { "id": "t1_ole6nj3", "author": "/u/TelevisionMelodic340", "updated": "2026-05-12T15:57:55+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tb097a/lottery_winner_opts_to_get_1000_a_week_instead_of/ole6nj3/", "content": "A) it’s a government lottery\n B) it’s in Canada so winnings are not taxable, ergo she gets the full $1M" }, { "id": "t1_olg9wdb", "author": "/u/youareallsilly", "updated": "2026-05-12T21:36:39+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tb097a/lottery_winner_opts_to_get_1000_a_week_instead_of/olg9wdb/", "content": "A lot of people also overlook the very key phrase “for life”. She could die at any time and her family would be left with much less than $1M." }, { "id": "t1_olhvsll", "author": "/u/Korazair", "updated": "2026-05-13T02:55:52+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tb097a/lottery_winner_opts_to_get_1000_a_week_instead_of/olhvsll/", "content": "Most lotteries have a minimum duration of like 20 years. So even if you died 2 months after you win your heir would still get 19 years of payment." }, { "id": "t1_olw956b", "author": "/u/ai-techguy001", "updated": "2026-05-15T05:10:42+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tb097a/lottery_winner_opts_to_get_1000_a_week_instead_of/olw956b/", "content": "most state lotteries are government backed so the counterparty risk is pretty low tbh" }, { "id": "t1_old4aqj", "author": "/u/baby_budda", "updated": "2026-05-12T12:59:54+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tb097a/lottery_winner_opts_to_get_1000_a_week_instead_of/old4aqj/", "content": "Its a smart move if you are ignorant about money and investing, have a gambling addiction, or have friends and family that will mooch off you relentlessly. This way he can live comfortably off the proceeds for the rest of his life." }, { "id": "t1_oldeqhj", "author": "/u/Critical_Success_936", "updated": "2026-05-12T13:52:21+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tb097a/lottery_winner_opts_to_get_1000_a_week_instead_of/oldeqhj/", "content": "Maybe not the rest of his life once you account for the taxes and whatnot, but yeah, I would NOT complain either way. This is a win even if he chose the "weaker" option by objective growth in value. Money gained is money gained." }, { "id": "t1_oldkv0g", "author": "/u/Existing-Pumpkin-902", "updated": "2026-05-12T14:21:07+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tb097a/lottery_winner_opts_to_get_1000_a_week_instead_of/oldkv0g/", "content": "Taxes will be lower via a gradual distribution than a huge lump sum" }, { "id": "t1_olhxo79", "author": "/u/Newnamewhodis1", "updated": "2026-05-13T03:07:48+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tb097a/lottery_winner_opts_to_get_1000_a_week_instead_of/olhxo79/", "content": "Not taxed." }, { "id": "t1_ole9eu7", "author": "/u/baby_budda", "updated": "2026-05-12T16:10:19+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tb097a/lottery_winner_opts_to_get_1000_a_week_instead_of/ole9eu7/", "content": "And he can always reinvest part or all of it." }, { "id": "t1_oldlbr6", "author": "/u/seanthenry", "updated": "2026-05-12T14:23:15+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tb097a/lottery_winner_opts_to_get_1000_a_week_instead_of/oldlbr6/", "content": "Get a money manager tell them to invest it and you would like a weekly stipend of 1K. If you need to make a large purchase they will sign off on it." }, { "id": "t1_omlo1ve", "author": "/u/ai-techguy001", "updated": "2026-05-19T02:55:50+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tb097a/lottery_winner_opts_to_get_1000_a_week_instead_of/omlo1ve/", "content": "yeah basically it's forced financial discipline. a lot of people who can't trust themselves with a lump sum are actually better off this way." }, { "id": "t1_old7wue", "author": "/u/Analbaby1", "updated": "2026-05-12T13:18:19+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tb097a/lottery_winner_opts_to_get_1000_a_week_instead_of/old7wue/", "content": "That will take nearly 20 yeats to get the equivalent of 1 mil. In 20 years 1000 dollars will be worth much less than it is today. Its good if youre a recovering addict of some sort. Poor decision if you want that money to generate more money." }, { "id": "t1_oldam9w", "author": "/u/BeneficialHand5129", "updated": "2026-05-12T13:31:56+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tb097a/lottery_winner_opts_to_get_1000_a_week_instead_of/oldam9w/", "content": "20 years at a thousand a week less than three years to surpass a million" }, { "id": "t1_oldav3r", "author": "/u/iAnkou", "updated": "2026-05-12T13:33:10+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tb097a/lottery_winner_opts_to_get_1000_a_week_instead_of/oldav3r/", "content": "how do you calculate that?" }, { "id": "t1_oldbkf2", "author": "/u/BeneficialHand5129", "updated": "2026-05-12T13:36:41+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tb097a/lottery_winner_opts_to_get_1000_a_week_instead_of/oldbkf2/", "content": "Incorrectly im afraid" }, { "id": "t1_oldbreu", "author": "/u/allpidecimals", "updated": "2026-05-12T13:37:40+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tb097a/lottery_winner_opts_to_get_1000_a_week_instead_of/oldbreu/", "content": "There are obviously 520 weeks in a year" }, { "id": "t1_ole9yj7", "author": "/u/Jupiterpie792", "updated": "2026-05-12T16:12:44+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tb097a/lottery_winner_opts_to_get_1000_a_week_instead_of/ole9yj7/", "content": "Gonna move to Saturn with my lottery 😂" }, { "id": "t1_oldh9lv", "author": "/u/Analbaby1", "updated": "2026-05-12T14:04:28+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tb097a/lottery_winner_opts_to_get_1000_a_week_instead_of/oldh9lv/", "content": "That guy maths." }, { "id": "t1_oldizy5", "author": "/u/Analbaby1", "updated": "2026-05-12T14:12:34+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tb097a/lottery_winner_opts_to_get_1000_a_week_instead_of/oldizy5/", "content": "Weeks not days my dude." }, { "id": "t1_olfiwcj", "author": "/u/mrcoupdetat", "updated": "2026-05-12T19:32:15+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tb097a/lottery_winner_opts_to_get_1000_a_week_instead_of/olfiwcj/", "content": "Oh boy." }, { "id": "t1_old8cy6", "author": "/u/turbulentFireStarter", "updated": "2026-05-12T13:20:36+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tb097a/lottery_winner_opts_to_get_1000_a_week_instead_of/old8cy6/", "content": "generally a safe withdrawal rate is considered somewhere between 3-5%. if he invested that $1m and spent 5% every year he could safely spend $50,000 a year. so about $961 a week. which is pretty close to $1000 a week. but has the up side of meaning he could spend $961 a week AND have the security of having $1m in the bank if he ever needed to draw on it, or borrow against it, or use as collateral for something.\n That being said... it's pretty close. If you are a disciplined person who could set boundaries for yourself, then mathematically I think taking $1m and investing it and then paying yourself $961 a week is the best bet. If you are not a disciplined person and you would benefit from a set allowance that never goes up or down and limits your ability to make bad decisions then I think $1000 a week is probably the right choice." }, { "id": "t1_old07ou", "author": "/u/ballskindrapes", "updated": "2026-05-12T12:38:18+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tb097a/lottery_winner_opts_to_get_1000_a_week_instead_of/old07ou/", "content": "Imo terrible. You might die tomorrow, better get it while you can" }, { "id": "t1_oldh12o", "author": "/u/davewashere", "updated": "2026-05-12T14:03:20+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tb097a/lottery_winner_opts_to_get_1000_a_week_instead_of/oldh12o/", "content": "In a country that doesn't tax lottery winnings, the lump sum makes a lot more sense. Even in places that do tax lottery winnings, the lump sum generally still makes more sense, depending on the specific circumstances. $1 million tax-free could be invested in the most conservative possible securities (like treasury bonds) and earn $35,000 in the first year, which is $673 per week. That investment income would be taxed, but if both the lump sum and weekly winners invest the same way and there are reliable returns of at least a few percentage points, the weekly winner should never surpass the lump sum winner's total.\n Of course, as the article points out, the mathematically correct answer might not be the best one for everyone. The history of windfall lottery winners has shown us that people are not disciplined with their money, especially if they're not used to having it. Very few people are able to take an honest look at themselves and know whether or not they can handle receiving a lot of money at once." }, { "id": "t1_olep3o9", "author": "/u/hotfirebird", "updated": "2026-05-12T17:19:15+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tb097a/lottery_winner_opts_to_get_1000_a_week_instead_of/olep3o9/", "content": "Annuities are almost always a bad idea. At the very top is what happened to the winners of Publishers Clearing House when they filed for bankruptcy in 2025. All of those "lifetime" winners had their annuities stopped." }, { "id": "t1_olfm2ne", "author": "/u/Busy_Examination_345", "updated": "2026-05-12T19:46:40+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tb097a/lottery_winner_opts_to_get_1000_a_week_instead_of/olfm2ne/", "content": "This!" }, { "id": "t1_oldvfn8", "author": "/u/Sufficient-Exam-8668", "updated": "2026-05-12T15:08:37+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tb097a/lottery_winner_opts_to_get_1000_a_week_instead_of/oldvfn8/", "content": "Is the 1 million before the 60% tax or after? I can live a pretty decent life on $1000 a week in addition to my regular pay." }, { "id": "t1_olhxt84", "author": "/u/Newnamewhodis1", "updated": "2026-05-13T03:08:42+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tb097a/lottery_winner_opts_to_get_1000_a_week_instead_of/olhxt84/", "content": "Canadian lottery winnings are not taxed" }, { "id": "t1_old0np3", "author": "/u/BlahBlahBlackCheap", "updated": "2026-05-12T12:40:43+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tb097a/lottery_winner_opts_to_get_1000_a_week_instead_of/old0np3/", "content": "If hes prone to loose financial self control? Good idea." }, { "id": "t1_oleep9j", "author": "/u/Regular-Quality3143", "updated": "2026-05-12T16:33:44+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tb097a/lottery_winner_opts_to_get_1000_a_week_instead_of/oleep9j/", "content": "Lost opportunity, 1M dollars today is worth more NPV" }, { "id": "t1_olfa67g", "author": "/u/Robru3142", "updated": "2026-05-12T18:52:46+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tb097a/lottery_winner_opts_to_get_1000_a_week_instead_of/olfa67g/", "content": "52K/yr is taxed differently than 1M lump sum." }, { "id": "t1_olglry3", "author": "/u/swingincelt", "updated": "2026-05-12T22:38:37+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tb097a/lottery_winner_opts_to_get_1000_a_week_instead_of/olglry3/", "content": "Woman is in Canada. No tax on lottery winnings." }, { "id": "t1_olh3tyd", "author": "/u/Grand-Vision", "updated": "2026-05-13T00:17:38+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tb097a/lottery_winner_opts_to_get_1000_a_week_instead_of/olh3tyd/", "content": "The financially optimal answer is almost always the lump sum if you have any investment discipline at all. $1M invested conservatively at 5% real return generates roughly $50K per year, above the $52K from the annuity, and you retain the capital.\n But the right answer for most people is the annuity. The question is not what produces better expected value - it is what produces the better life outcome given actual human behaviour. $1M in most people's hands gets spent, loaned to family, invested badly, or eroded by lifestyle inflation. $1,000 a week arrives reliably, is psychologically easier to manage, and cannot be blown in one decision.\n The lottery winner who takes the annuity and keeps their current life is making a rational bet about their own behaviour, not a financial mistake. Passive income you cannot touch the principal of is a structural advantage for most people." }, { "id": "t1_oldnxas", "author": "/u/DeliciousSimple2", "updated": "2026-05-12T14:35:07+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tb097a/lottery_winner_opts_to_get_1000_a_week_instead_of/oldnxas/", "content": "Depends. Is there a penalty for taking the lump sum? Normally there is. Also, as others have said, they maybe worried about being able to budget properly." }, { "id": "t1_oldpaw1", "author": "/u/gtwooh", "updated": "2026-05-12T14:41:25+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tb097a/lottery_winner_opts_to_get_1000_a_week_instead_of/oldpaw1/", "content": "Years of compounding lost forever." }, { "id": "t1_olg8g9e", "author": "/u/travelsherpa", "updated": "2026-05-12T21:29:31+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tb097a/lottery_winner_opts_to_get_1000_a_week_instead_of/olg8g9e/", "content": "It’s basic math… she can invest the $1m @ 5% and basically draw the $1000/week, and still have the &1m in the bank. So yeah. Dumb move, unless she doesn’t trust herself and things she will squander it." }, { "id": "t1_olgb317", "author": "/u/Complete_Lurk3r_", "updated": "2026-05-12T21:42:31+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tb097a/lottery_winner_opts_to_get_1000_a_week_instead_of/olgb317/", "content": "Nah, my guy just told his family and friends he gets $1000 per month, really he took the milli" }, { "id": "t1_olgbunh", "author": "/u/idk_wtf_im_hodling", "updated": "2026-05-12T21:46:22+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tb097a/lottery_winner_opts_to_get_1000_a_week_instead_of/olgbunh/", "content": "Mathematically its stupid as hell" }, { "id": "t1_olgo03d", "author": "/u/royalflushed", "updated": "2026-05-12T22:50:50+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tb097a/lottery_winner_opts_to_get_1000_a_week_instead_of/olgo03d/", "content": "The publishers clearing house lottery winners no longer get their money because the company went out of business. Lump sum is the way to go." }, { "id": "t1_olhca0r", "author": "/u/AlaskanDruid", "updated": "2026-05-13T01:04:25+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tb097a/lottery_winner_opts_to_get_1000_a_week_instead_of/olhca0r/", "content": "This comes up often. The answer is almost always lump sum." }, { "id": "t1_olhf0qr", "author": "/u/baummer", "updated": "2026-05-13T01:19:48+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tb097a/lottery_winner_opts_to_get_1000_a_week_instead_of/olhf0qr/", "content": "https://giphy.com/gifs/7Jq6ufAgpblcm0Ih2z" }, { "id": "t1_olhfbmc", "author": "/u/whosthere5", "updated": "2026-05-13T01:21:31+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tb097a/lottery_winner_opts_to_get_1000_a_week_instead_of/olhfbmc/", "content": "At the end of the day it depends on the person. If you know you would blow through it then getting it at a trickle you can’t change is objectively the better decision. It won’t ruin your life that way at least" }, { "id": "t1_olhjeto", "author": "/u/Crystalbow", "updated": "2026-05-13T01:44:39+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tb097a/lottery_winner_opts_to_get_1000_a_week_instead_of/olhjeto/", "content": "I would take the 1k per week paycheck and keep working. Thats like 100% pay raise" }, { "id": "t1_oli05ms", "author": "/u/DeLoresDelorean", "updated": "2026-05-13T03:23:51+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tb097a/lottery_winner_opts_to_get_1000_a_week_instead_of/oli05ms/", "content": "1k won’t be worth anything with inflation an a few years." }, { "id": "t1_oli6tki", "author": "/u/bkpkmnky", "updated": "2026-05-13T04:08:54+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tb097a/lottery_winner_opts_to_get_1000_a_week_instead_of/oli6tki/", "content": "It might be they believe it to be less in taxes versus paying $300,000+ in taxes in the lump sum! Not saying I agree but I'm just bringing it for observation." }, { "id": "t1_olds9u2", "author": "/u/inksaywhat", "updated": "2026-05-12T14:54:35+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tb097a/lottery_winner_opts_to_get_1000_a_week_instead_of/olds9u2/", "content": "These stupid articles that just recap Reddit threads are horrendous." }, { "id": "t1_oleb6ch", "author": "/u/TrundleGod32", "updated": "2026-05-12T16:18:06+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tb097a/lottery_winner_opts_to_get_1000_a_week_instead_of/oleb6ch/", "content": "Takes 20 years to payout, at which point inflation would have destroyed more than half of its value. Stupid as hell\n And if it was invested it would easily pay out 1k per week as well as keeping the 1mil. Stupid is as stupid is" }, { "id": "t1_oleji0q", "author": "/u/Kitchen-Historian371", "updated": "2026-05-12T16:55:03+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tb097a/lottery_winner_opts_to_get_1000_a_week_instead_of/oleji0q/", "content": "Yea I mean, even with taxes whatever the difference is is minuscule when invested, and inflation too. Geeze she’ll be just fine but man to get that opportunity and pick the lesser option. Eh again she’ll be just fine good for her" }, { "id": "t1_olftjqh", "author": "/u/juicevibe", "updated": "2026-05-12T20:20:23+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tb097a/lottery_winner_opts_to_get_1000_a_week_instead_of/olftjqh/", "content": "Worst decision." }, { "id": "t1_olifc0m", "author": "/u/Miamiconnectionexo", "updated": "2026-05-13T05:11:05+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tb097a/lottery_winner_opts_to_get_1000_a_week_instead_of/olifc0m/", "content": "good post. the part about taking it step by step is underrated advice." }, { "id": "t1_olixxmn", "author": "/u/Penya23", "updated": "2026-05-13T07:43:56+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tb097a/lottery_winner_opts_to_get_1000_a_week_instead_of/olixxmn/", "content": "I'd go for the lump sum. I dont trust anyone when it comes to money. Who's to say they won't say, yeah that's enough after a certain amount of years?" }, { "id": "t1_oliyqaf", "author": "/u/k_rocker", "updated": "2026-05-13T07:50:53+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tb097a/lottery_winner_opts_to_get_1000_a_week_instead_of/oliyqaf/", "content": "Didn’t someone do this in another country and the lottery paying it went bust?\n I hope it’s secured/underwritten and guaranteed!" }, { "id": "t1_oljcos3", "author": "/u/vertexchef", "updated": "2026-05-13T09:52:14+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tb097a/lottery_winner_opts_to_get_1000_a_week_instead_of/oljcos3/", "content": "$1,000/week x 52 weeks/year = I'm taking the $1M" }, { "id": "t1_olk50ig", "author": "/u/PutNameHere123", "updated": "2026-05-13T12:55:27+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tb097a/lottery_winner_opts_to_get_1000_a_week_instead_of/olk50ig/", "content": "The only possible benefit I can see in this is keeping low-income bracket benefits like no/low premium healthcare, SNAP, etc.\n Otherwise wise investments with a mil would easily net you $1K/week without dipping into it." }, { "id": "t1_olk5iq2", "author": "/u/RadiantBison4099", "updated": "2026-05-13T12:58:06+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tb097a/lottery_winner_opts_to_get_1000_a_week_instead_of/olk5iq2/", "content": "He is betting that he will outlive and get more than the million lump sum." }, { "id": "t1_olk7dig", "author": "/u/EnderMB", "updated": "2026-05-13T13:07:46+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tb097a/lottery_winner_opts_to_get_1000_a_week_instead_of/olk7dig/", "content": "Does it really matter?\n They're going to have a ton of money now, and assuming that the company doesn't go bust and has some degree of winning protection set up, having the kind of money to effectively retire today is good enough." }, { "id": "t1_olkiicx", "author": "/u/moneyisboring1", "updated": "2026-05-13T14:02:36+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tb097a/lottery_winner_opts_to_get_1000_a_week_instead_of/olkiicx/", "content": "For most people it’s built in Discipline and likely better" }, { "id": "t1_olkjixy", "author": "/u/Miamiconnectionexo", "updated": "2026-05-13T14:07:28+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tb097a/lottery_winner_opts_to_get_1000_a_week_instead_of/olkjixy/", "content": "came here to say something similar. you nailed it." }, { "id": "t1_ollm08c", "author": "/u/Tullubenta", "updated": "2026-05-13T16:59:57+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tb097a/lottery_winner_opts_to_get_1000_a_week_instead_of/ollm08c/", "content": "I would have elected to get the $1mil up front. Assuming all taxes are paid and I get the one million. Three investment property purchased at $330k, rent them out at $2,750, that’s $8,250 a month. Times 12, that’s $99k a year as oppose to that $52k." }, { "id": "t1_ollpah6", "author": "/u/TheSilverFoxwins", "updated": "2026-05-13T17:14:13+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tb097a/lottery_winner_opts_to_get_1000_a_week_instead_of/ollpah6/", "content": "Lost opportunity" }, { "id": "t1_ollxli4", "author": "/u/SimplyRoya", "updated": "2026-05-13T17:50:14+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tb097a/lottery_winner_opts_to_get_1000_a_week_instead_of/ollxli4/", "content": "Huge loss." }, { "id": "t1_ollxo2d", "author": "/u/Rough_Champion7852", "updated": "2026-05-13T17:50:33+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tb097a/lottery_winner_opts_to_get_1000_a_week_instead_of/ollxo2d/", "content": "If he is crap with money and financial discipline it’s a good decision.\n Also, depends on the tax implications for the winner but I probably would go for the lump sum and invest it in trackers producing something similar the weekly payout," }, { "id": "t1_olmrrt7", "author": "/u/GrumpyGlasses", "updated": "2026-05-13T20:05:46+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tb097a/lottery_winner_opts_to_get_1000_a_week_instead_of/olmrrt7/", "content": "This woman is only 20 years old. If she truly gets $1000 a week for life the winnings will far exceed $1M. Otherwise, $1M is just 1000 weeks or about 19 years. Hyperbole reporting?" }, { "id": "t1_olmw098", "author": "/u/QCbartender", "updated": "2026-05-13T20:25:45+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tb097a/lottery_winner_opts_to_get_1000_a_week_instead_of/olmw098/", "content": "At one million invested in an index fund with an expected 6% return you would be earning $60,000 your first year. You could take the $52,000 out and be left with $1,008,000. You could do this ad infinitum. By taking the lump sum you essentially get the $1,000 a week plus interest" }, { "id": "t1_olo9u97", "author": "/u/Miamiconnectionexo", "updated": "2026-05-14T00:47:27+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tb097a/lottery_winner_opts_to_get_1000_a_week_instead_of/olo9u97/", "content": "lowkey one of the more practical takes i've read on this topic in a while." }, { "id": "t1_olol6un", "author": "/u/woody9055", "updated": "2026-05-14T01:50:21+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tb097a/lottery_winner_opts_to_get_1000_a_week_instead_of/olol6un/", "content": "Pretty stupid. You take the lump sum and invest now and beat inflation. That 1k in 10 years will be lucky to have $600 of purchasing power." }, { "id": "t1_olomeki", "author": "/u/Effective-Data3196", "updated": "2026-05-14T01:57:16+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tb097a/lottery_winner_opts_to_get_1000_a_week_instead_of/olomeki/", "content": "go for lump sum if you want quick cash or another option is to go the 1000 a week if you want to go with less tax deduction" }, { "id": "t1_olsozku", "author": "/u/TenInchesOfSnow", "updated": "2026-05-14T17:18:32+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tb097a/lottery_winner_opts_to_get_1000_a_week_instead_of/olsozku/", "content": "No taxes on lotto winnings in Canada" }, { "id": "t1_olpijsn", "author": "/u/sidehustle_brad", "updated": "2026-05-14T05:30:49+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tb097a/lottery_winner_opts_to_get_1000_a_week_instead_of/olpijsn/", "content": "Does anyone know the actual payout period on this? $1,000/week sounds nice but if it's over 30+ years, inflation is going to eat that alive. A thousand dollars in 2054 won't buy what it does today, which is a huge hidden cost people overlook." }, { "id": "t1_olr4v9v", "author": "/u/OnMyNerdShhhhhht", "updated": "2026-05-14T12:56:17+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tb097a/lottery_winner_opts_to_get_1000_a_week_instead_of/olr4v9v/", "content": "For some people who are worried about it all going at once, 1k a week is the better decision." }, { "id": "t1_olt3ggc", "author": "/u/Ragnarotico", "updated": "2026-05-14T18:23:23+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tb097a/lottery_winner_opts_to_get_1000_a_week_instead_of/olt3ggc/", "content": "Unwise. A conservative return on a figure like $1M is about 5% annually or $50,000 a year.\n You'd get the same thing with the lump sum vs. the weekly $1,000 and you have the option of spending the $1M." }, { "id": "t1_olw16ls", "author": "/u/DopamineDictator", "updated": "2026-05-15T04:10:19+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tb097a/lottery_winner_opts_to_get_1000_a_week_instead_of/olw16ls/", "content": "IMO huge lost opportunity. If you get that lump sum and put it into even the most basic of low risk CD account you’d get close to $1000 a month and keep the principle. If you put it into S&P…" }, { "id": "t1_olwr4lt", "author": "/u/bartekkenny", "updated": "2026-05-15T07:43:12+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tb097a/lottery_winner_opts_to_get_1000_a_week_instead_of/olwr4lt/", "content": "They were playing a random ass lottery. High chance they are addicted to gambling/lottery. When you have that addiction taking 1000$ a week is the smart move." }, { "id": "t1_olxwx5k", "author": "/u/Equivalent-Load-9158", "updated": "2026-05-15T12:54:15+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tb097a/lottery_winner_opts_to_get_1000_a_week_instead_of/olxwx5k/", "content": "Idiotic decision." }, { "id": "t1_olznwc0", "author": "/u/FiveNightsAtWuggy", "updated": "2026-05-15T17:53:08+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tb097a/lottery_winner_opts_to_get_1000_a_week_instead_of/olznwc0/", "content": "mf thinks he’s giving a house loan" }, { "id": "t1_om3a6kt", "author": "/u/marcduberge", "updated": "2026-05-16T07:05:10+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tb097a/lottery_winner_opts_to_get_1000_a_week_instead_of/om3a6kt/", "content": "Inflation going to devalue that quite a bit versus investing the lump sum in index funds that will keep pace with inflation" }, { "id": "t1_om464t4", "author": "/u/CUbuffGuy", "updated": "2026-05-16T11:42:22+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tb097a/lottery_winner_opts_to_get_1000_a_week_instead_of/om464t4/", "content": "Dumbass move. Now stop making posts about it." }, { "id": "t1_om4v022", "author": "/u/RyCryst", "updated": "2026-05-16T14:11:46+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tb097a/lottery_winner_opts_to_get_1000_a_week_instead_of/om4v022/", "content": "You don’t just get $1,000,000 that shit is taxes. It seems everyone here forgets that aspect. So shes bot making returns on 1 mill shes making returns on the money after taxes. Whatever that amount is depending on state and federal taxes." }, { "id": "t1_omcrg0e", "author": "/u/HourBank2803", "updated": "2026-05-17T19:04:23+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tb097a/lottery_winner_opts_to_get_1000_a_week_instead_of/omcrg0e/", "content": "This is always a bad idea.\n TLDR\n Lottery companies can go down, no money\n Money now good, take cut big, but money now good" }, { "id": "t1_omkfrld", "author": "/u/ScammedByBankman", "updated": "2026-05-18T22:41:08+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tb097a/lottery_winner_opts_to_get_1000_a_week_instead_of/omkfrld/", "content": "Poor self control: right decision All other scenarios: worst decision. You can make $1000 a week through investments." }, { "id": "t1_omm1qw7", "author": "/u/mqueen212", "updated": "2026-05-19T04:21:52+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tb097a/lottery_winner_opts_to_get_1000_a_week_instead_of/omm1qw7/", "content": "A very unwise move" }, { "id": "t1_onvrctu", "author": "/u/CoursePotential9296", "updated": "2026-05-26T00:12:01+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tb097a/lottery_winner_opts_to_get_1000_a_week_instead_of/onvrctu/", "content": "Depends entirely on life expectancy and what you'd actually do with the lump sum. If you'd invest it well, take the million. If you'd spend it, the annuity is forced discipline. Most people overestimate their ability to manage a sudden windfall." }, { "id": "t1_old4ljk", "author": "/u/Legitimate-Pumpkin", "updated": "2026-05-12T13:01:28+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tb097a/lottery_winner_opts_to_get_1000_a_week_instead_of/old4ljk/", "content": "Wait!! You didn’t mention “for as long as she lives”. I might also get 1k weekly for as long as I live, if it’s “inflation protected”. Basically UBI except not really Basic. I’m all in for that." }, { "id": "t1_olddueh", "author": "/u/linux_n00by", "updated": "2026-05-12T13:48:02+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tb097a/lottery_winner_opts_to_get_1000_a_week_instead_of/olddueh/", "content": "what if ypu took 1000 a week but the company closed after a few years. what will happen to the rest of the payout?" }, { "id": "t1_oldedi0", "author": "/u/gadfly1999", "updated": "2026-05-12T13:50:36+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tb097a/lottery_winner_opts_to_get_1000_a_week_instead_of/oldedi0/", "content": "Most people on this thread are acting like you get a million dollars in a lump sum. Most lottery payouts are structured as annuities that total up to the award amount over 20-30 years. When you buy the ticket and select a lump sum payout, it’s significantly less than the full award." }, { "id": "t1_oldr5wu", "author": "/u/largos7289", "updated": "2026-05-12T14:49:46+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tb097a/lottery_winner_opts_to_get_1000_a_week_instead_of/oldr5wu/", "content": "I mean unless your 100 and don't plan on living long take the lump, otherwise take the 1000 a week." }, { "id": "t1_olj1v8o", "author": "/u/Whole_Mechanic_8143", "updated": "2026-05-13T08:18:41+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tb097a/lottery_winner_opts_to_get_1000_a_week_instead_of/olj1v8o/", "content": "Everyone is an investment expert who can easily earn a risk free 5% return and get 1k per week without spending the principal when it comes to lottery wins." }, { "id": "t1_oldrahx", "author": "/u/pkyang", "updated": "2026-05-12T14:50:20+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tb097a/lottery_winner_opts_to_get_1000_a_week_instead_of/oldrahx/", "content": "Let Darwin cook" }, { "id": "t1_oleumty", "author": "/u/Living_Airline8566", "updated": "2026-05-12T17:43:11+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tb097a/lottery_winner_opts_to_get_1000_a_week_instead_of/oleumty/", "content": "take the full amount, dont tell anyone you won, then consult a attorney. It’s really not that difficult" }, { "id": "t1_olgjvv2", "author": "/u/mixlplex", "updated": "2026-05-12T22:28:19+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tb097a/lottery_winner_opts_to_get_1000_a_week_instead_of/olgjvv2/", "content": "They bought a lottery ticket. They're obviously not good at math..." }, { "id": "t1_olin2hh", "author": "/u/BottleOfConstructs", "updated": "2026-05-13T06:12:13+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tb097a/lottery_winner_opts_to_get_1000_a_week_instead_of/olin2hh/", "content": "Wise move." }, { "id": "t1_old9wxa", "author": "/u/BeneficialHand5129", "updated": "2026-05-12T13:28:25+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tb097a/lottery_winner_opts_to_get_1000_a_week_instead_of/old9wxa/", "content": "It would only take 3 years at a thousand a week to surpass a million. Definitely take a thousand a week for life and invest slowly cost averaging in a index fund. Keep working and FIRE when your ready." }, { "id": "t1_oldafe4", "author": "/u/snobordir", "updated": "2026-05-12T13:30:58+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tb097a/lottery_winner_opts_to_get_1000_a_week_instead_of/oldafe4/", "content": "*19 years" }, { "id": "t1_ole4ynz", "author": "/u/Necrolancer_Kurisu", "updated": "2026-05-12T15:50:32+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tb097a/lottery_winner_opts_to_get_1000_a_week_instead_of/ole4ynz/", "content": "D-did you mistake weeks for days? As in a year having 365 weeks?" }, { "id": "t1_oldr3og", "author": "/u/Icefyre79", "updated": "2026-05-12T14:49:30+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tb097a/lottery_winner_opts_to_get_1000_a_week_instead_of/oldr3og/", "content": "52 x 1000 x 3 =156,000" } ] }, { "source": "r/passive_income top month", "id": "t3_1tpdq1i", "title": "Trailer rental is the only physical asset worth the headache", "author": "/u/SpinachKettle", "updated": "2026-05-27T18:11:48+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tpdq1i/trailer_rental_is_the_only_physical_asset_worth/", "content": "Everyone on this sub is obsessed with affiliate marketing or dividend stocks that pay out peanuts but I decided to go the route of solving a very specific logistics problem. I live about ten minutes away from a massive IKEA and a few other big box furniture stores. Every single weekend I see the same scene. Someone buys a massive sectional or a dining table and then realizes it will not fit in their mid-sized SUV. The store delivery takes three days and costs a hundred bucks so they just stand there looking miserable in the parking lot. I realized I could monetize that desperation without actually having to talk to a single human being.\n Last year I bought two used 5x8 cargo trailers on marketplace for about twelve hundred dollars total. I spent another two hundred on new tires and LED light kits because the old wiring was total garbage. These things are basically tanks with wheels. There is no engine to blow up and no transmission to worry about. I pay for a small gated storage spot that is literally around the corner from the furniture district. I put a heavy duty hitch lock on them and a bluetooth enabled lockbox on the frame. My entire "business model" is just a listing on a peer to peer rental app and a set of automated instructions.\n When someone books the trailer they get a code for the lockbox and a PDF with photos showing how to hook up the chains and the lights. I do not meet them. I do not help them hitch it up. If they are too dumb to figure out a standard 2 inch ball then they probably should not be on the road anyway. I charge forty dollars a day and during the spring and summer they are booked almost every Friday through Sunday. After the app takes its cut and I pay the monthly storage fee I am clearing about five hundred a month in pure profit. It is not "quit your job" money but the amount of actual work I do is maybe twenty minutes a week checking the tires and making sure nobody left a pile of trash inside.\n The best part is that trailers do not depreciate like cars do. If I decide I am bored of this I can sell them tomorrow for exactly what I paid for them. It is way better than managing a short term rental where guests complain about the thread count of the towels or the wifi speed. People who rent trailers just want to get their couch home without it falling out on the highway. They are usually in a rush and they leave me alone. I had one guy dent a fender once but the insurance through the app covered it without me even having to pick up the phone. It is a dirty and boring way to make money which is exactly why there is no competition in my area. Everyone else is too busy trying to find a "secret" crypto coin while I am just collecting cash from a hunk of rusted metal . I am currently looking for a third trailer to add to the fleet before the summer rush hits.\n submitted by /u/SpinachKettle\n [link] [comments]", "contentHtml": "

Everyone on this sub is obsessed with affiliate marketing or dividend stocks that pay out peanuts but I decided to go the route of solving a very specific logistics problem. I live about ten minutes away from a massive IKEA and a few other big box furniture stores. Every single weekend I see the same scene. Someone buys a massive sectional or a dining table and then realizes it will not fit in their mid-sized SUV. The store delivery takes three days and costs a hundred bucks so they just stand there looking miserable in the parking lot. I realized I could monetize that desperation without actually having to talk to a single human being.

Last year I bought two used 5x8 cargo trailers on marketplace for about twelve hundred dollars total. I spent another two hundred on new tires and LED light kits because the old wiring was total garbage. These things are basically tanks with wheels. There is no engine to blow up and no transmission to worry about. I pay for a small gated storage spot that is literally around the corner from the furniture district. I put a heavy duty hitch lock on them and a bluetooth enabled lockbox on the frame. My entire "business model" is just a listing on a peer to peer rental app and a set of automated instructions.

When someone books the trailer they get a code for the lockbox and a PDF with photos showing how to hook up the chains and the lights. I do not meet them. I do not help them hitch it up. If they are too dumb to figure out a standard 2 inch ball then they probably should not be on the road anyway. I charge forty dollars a day and during the spring and summer they are booked almost every Friday through Sunday. After the app takes its cut and I pay the monthly storage fee I am clearing about five hundred a month in pure profit. It is not "quit your job" money but the amount of actual work I do is maybe twenty minutes a week checking the tires and making sure nobody left a pile of trash inside.

The best part is that trailers do not depreciate like cars do. If I decide I am bored of this I can sell them tomorrow for exactly what I paid for them. It is way better than managing a short term rental where guests complain about the thread count of the towels or the wifi speed. People who rent trailers just want to get their couch home without it falling out on the highway. They are usually in a rush and they leave me alone. I had one guy dent a fender once but the insurance through the app covered it without me even having to pick up the phone. It is a dirty and boring way to make money which is exactly why there is no competition in my area. Everyone else is too busy trying to find a "secret" crypto coin while I am just collecting cash from a hunk of rusted metal . I am currently looking for a third trailer to add to the fleet before the summer rush hits.

submitted by /u/SpinachKettle
[link] [comments]", "comments": [ { "id": "t1_oo7wk87", "author": "/u/AutoModerator", "updated": "2026-05-27T18:11:49+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tpdq1i/trailer_rental_is_the_only_physical_asset_worth/oo7wk87/", "content": "Check out the Community Highlights for current and future Mod Vetted opportunities and Newsletter Episodes.\n Please do due diligence on any crypto opportunity. A simple google search could save you a fortune.\n I am a bot, and this action was performed automatically. Please contact the moderators of this subreddit if you have any questions or concerns." }, { "id": "t1_oo7xizk", "author": "/u/_IronPetal_", "updated": "2026-05-27T18:15:59+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tpdq1i/trailer_rental_is_the_only_physical_asset_worth/oo7xizk/", "content": "Boring businesses are often the most profitable ones. Great niche." }, { "id": "t1_oo7xubz", "author": "/u/SpinachKettle", "updated": "2026-05-27T18:17:21+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tpdq1i/trailer_rental_is_the_only_physical_asset_worth/oo7xubz/", "content": "Boring is better. I would rather check tire pressure once a week than chase people for rent or manage a complex website." }, { "id": "t1_ooabme6", "author": "/u/JasGot", "updated": "2026-05-28T01:16:45+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tpdq1i/trailer_rental_is_the_only_physical_asset_worth/ooabme6/", "content": "How do you check/confirm damage after each rental?" }, { "id": "t1_oohl38l", "author": "/u/Spicy_Kimchi69", "updated": "2026-05-29T01:42:28+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tpdq1i/trailer_rental_is_the_only_physical_asset_worth/oohl38l/", "content": "Where’s this answer" }, { "id": "t1_oowxujw", "author": "/u/Equivalent_Pen_9403", "updated": "2026-05-31T09:36:42+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tpdq1i/trailer_rental_is_the_only_physical_asset_worth/oowxujw/", "content": "Could probably just add a high res security camera or two in the storage area to record things larger than small cosmetic issues." }, { "id": "t1_op35dip", "author": "/u/Hopeful_Comedian7068", "updated": "2026-06-01T07:40:29+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tpdq1i/trailer_rental_is_the_only_physical_asset_worth/op35dip/", "content": "I have seen such business last long and are mostly profitable ones such as cement steel kind of stuff" }, { "id": "t1_oo88810", "author": "/u/420aarong", "updated": "2026-05-27T19:02:29+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tpdq1i/trailer_rental_is_the_only_physical_asset_worth/oo88810/", "content": "Just quit my job and bought 2 trailers!" }, { "id": "t1_ooaz842", "author": "/u/_peacemonger_", "updated": "2026-05-28T03:35:42+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tpdq1i/trailer_rental_is_the_only_physical_asset_worth/ooaz842/", "content": "Glad I'm not the only one who impulsively did that. See you at TrailerCon this fall, fellow small business owner." }, { "id": "t1_ooic7f7", "author": "/u/optometrist-bynature", "updated": "2026-05-29T04:28:12+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tpdq1i/trailer_rental_is_the_only_physical_asset_worth/ooic7f7/", "content": "How much are you making from it?" }, { "id": "t1_op35gle", "author": "/u/Hopeful_Comedian7068", "updated": "2026-06-01T07:41:15+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tpdq1i/trailer_rental_is_the_only_physical_asset_worth/op35gle/", "content": "Mustering up the courage to do that my self I hope I'll do it soon" }, { "id": "t1_oo8024g", "author": "/u/lordduckling", "updated": "2026-05-27T18:26:54+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tpdq1i/trailer_rental_is_the_only_physical_asset_worth/oo8024g/", "content": "What’s the rental app. I’m curious to read more about it and how it covers the renter in case of damage or theft of asset.\n Thanks, loving this boring but stable side hustle." }, { "id": "t1_ooc76rn", "author": "/u/RBlubb", "updated": "2026-05-28T09:18:52+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tpdq1i/trailer_rental_is_the_only_physical_asset_worth/ooc76rn/", "content": "There exists multiple apps, in Sweden I'm regularly seeing trailers branded with freetrailer, use4free, rentr.\n I've personally used freetrailer, and on that one the rental is free (up to a few hours), but you can pay to reserve a timeslot, and insurance is also a paid (optional) extra.\n If you don't pay for the insurance addon then expect it to become expensive if something happens." }, { "id": "t1_oouytsh", "author": "/u/National-Fish-4094", "updated": "2026-05-31T00:50:16+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tpdq1i/trailer_rental_is_the_only_physical_asset_worth/oouytsh/", "content": "Guessing that's the grift. Ad for a scam site probably." }, { "id": "t1_oo7xurp", "author": "/u/Undercover_Agent_X", "updated": "2026-05-27T18:17:24+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tpdq1i/trailer_rental_is_the_only_physical_asset_worth/oo7xurp/", "content": "The lack of depreciation is the real winner here. You can literally use these for five years and sell them for a profit if you keep the tires fresh. Much better than fighting over a crypto dip." }, { "id": "t1_oo7y2y3", "author": "/u/SpinachKettle", "updated": "2026-05-27T18:18:23+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tpdq1i/trailer_rental_is_the_only_physical_asset_worth/oo7y2y3/", "content": "A physical asset like this is a solid hedge against the volatility of digital markets." }, { "id": "t1_oobnczx", "author": "/u/sharkbait-oo-haha", "updated": "2026-05-28T06:31:16+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tpdq1i/trailer_rental_is_the_only_physical_asset_worth/oobnczx/", "content": "My family has had the same box trailer for about 60 years now. It's probably worth more today (even after inflation) than it was new.\n Granted, it's been striped down to the last bolt and restored once or twice over the decades." }, { "id": "t1_oo7y3fk", "author": "/u/Fable_Maker-", "updated": "2026-05-27T18:18:26+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tpdq1i/trailer_rental_is_the_only_physical_asset_worth/oo7y3fk/", "content": "I have seen people on that parking lot trying to shove a sectional into a Civic. They look so defeated. Charging forty bucks to save their car and their marriage is a bargain." }, { "id": "t1_ooauda9", "author": "/u/chromaiden", "updated": "2026-05-28T03:05:03+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tpdq1i/trailer_rental_is_the_only_physical_asset_worth/ooauda9/", "content": "Since when do civics have a trailer hitch?" }, { "id": "t1_oo8v9zz", "author": "/u/Johnny_Carcinogenic", "updated": "2026-05-27T20:45:05+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tpdq1i/trailer_rental_is_the_only_physical_asset_worth/oo8v9zz/", "content": "I was thinking you were going to say you just cruise the parking lots with trailer in tow and charge them on the spot to load up and deliver it and charge $100. And work 3 days a week and knock down a few $100 a day" }, { "id": "t1_oo9dpcg", "author": "/u/Motherboy_TheBand", "updated": "2026-05-27T22:13:01+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tpdq1i/trailer_rental_is_the_only_physical_asset_worth/oo9dpcg/", "content": "I was thinking the same. Also not a bad side hustle (not passive tho)." }, { "id": "t1_ooa2tcd", "author": "/u/Johnny_Carcinogenic", "updated": "2026-05-28T00:28:34+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tpdq1i/trailer_rental_is_the_only_physical_asset_worth/ooa2tcd/", "content": "Oh yeah, not passive, forgot the sub we were in." }, { "id": "t1_oobnpvf", "author": "/u/sharkbait-oo-haha", "updated": "2026-05-28T06:34:13+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tpdq1i/trailer_rental_is_the_only_physical_asset_worth/oobnpvf/", "content": "I was going to suggest, buy a enclosed/high side trailer and park it right at the entrance of the store. Have the side's plastered with a banner advertising it for rent.\n All that said. The IKEAs around me actually offer a turo like service with moving vans available right from their parking lots. It's a 3rd party company, they also place their rental vans near self storage facilities." }, { "id": "t1_oo89puj", "author": "/u/n8texas", "updated": "2026-05-27T19:09:03+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tpdq1i/trailer_rental_is_the_only_physical_asset_worth/oo89puj/", "content": "u/SpinachKettle are you using the “Neighbors Trailer” app? That’s the only one I’ve heard of before…Or something else?" }, { "id": "t1_oo83bm2", "author": "/u/CutSavings3690", "updated": "2026-05-27T18:41:11+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tpdq1i/trailer_rental_is_the_only_physical_asset_worth/oo83bm2/", "content": "Do trailers need registration/plates , insurance." }, { "id": "t1_oo8ab36", "author": "/u/TickingTimeBum", "updated": "2026-05-27T19:11:38+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tpdq1i/trailer_rental_is_the_only_physical_asset_worth/oo8ab36/", "content": "some states have permanent plates that are just a one time cost. Others are registered every year - in my state the renewal of my trailer is very inexpensive ($20ish, I'm not sure the exact number)" }, { "id": "t1_ooauj90", "author": "/u/acme_restorations", "updated": "2026-05-28T03:06:05+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tpdq1i/trailer_rental_is_the_only_physical_asset_worth/ooauj90/", "content": "That may be true for private trailers; I guarantee you it’s different for “vehicle for hire” trailers. Special licensing requiring substantial liability insurance to be legal." }, { "id": "t1_oo8d3ee", "author": "/u/Zealousideal_Ratio_8", "updated": "2026-05-27T19:23:50+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tpdq1i/trailer_rental_is_the_only_physical_asset_worth/oo8d3ee/", "content": "Whats the insurance situation?" }, { "id": "t1_oo8snuq", "author": "/u/Brilliant_Koala6498", "updated": "2026-05-27T20:33:15+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tpdq1i/trailer_rental_is_the_only_physical_asset_worth/oo8snuq/", "content": "Yeah I can see the lawyers drooling from here. Dumb ass crashes trailer and kills someone. Family finds out someone has Airbnb for trailer. Easy target" }, { "id": "t1_ooaftpx", "author": "/u/InYosefWeTrust", "updated": "2026-05-28T01:40:50+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tpdq1i/trailer_rental_is_the_only_physical_asset_worth/ooaftpx/", "content": "It's like people in this post are just now finding out U-Haul exists..." }, { "id": "t1_oo97wp7", "author": "/u/drsmith48170", "updated": "2026-05-27T21:44:16+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tpdq1i/trailer_rental_is_the_only_physical_asset_worth/oo97wp7/", "content": "What strikes me is this is low effort but not really passive. Trailers have to be checked weekly. If something happened or broke while in use, then OP needs to address. Insurance title and plate are maybe once a year max, but still it is something OP has to do once a year." }, { "id": "t1_oofy0lh", "author": "/u/PllXLL", "updated": "2026-05-28T20:31:25+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tpdq1i/trailer_rental_is_the_only_physical_asset_worth/oofy0lh/", "content": "dude, c'mon, thats like 20 minutes a week on average for 500 bucks a month. Thats passive income. You still check your stocks every now and then, maybe even sell or buy new ones, don't you?" }, { "id": "t1_ooglzjy", "author": "/u/drsmith48170", "updated": "2026-05-28T22:27:05+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tpdq1i/trailer_rental_is_the_only_physical_asset_worth/ooglzjy/", "content": "Actually I don’t at all, totally on auto pilot if you care to know.\n It’s not just the monthly work, it’s the potential for high liability plus the fact if one of the trailers breaks at 11pm OP is on the hook to address it then and there.\n Again s oh bds like a good gig, but I would classify this a gig or hustle job." }, { "id": "t1_oojvg0q", "author": "/u/PrettyPonii", "updated": "2026-05-29T11:39:00+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tpdq1i/trailer_rental_is_the_only_physical_asset_worth/oojvg0q/", "content": "OP stated in a diff comment they are in Sweden (not sure of the laws there) but in most of the US you have liability for trailers automatically with your car insurance, which is adequate." }, { "id": "t1_oo8qlel", "author": "/u/MyWorldIsInsideOut", "updated": "2026-05-27T20:23:57+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tpdq1i/trailer_rental_is_the_only_physical_asset_worth/oo8qlel/", "content": "Most small cars don’t have a trailer hitch." }, { "id": "t1_op35jep", "author": "/u/Hopeful_Comedian7068", "updated": "2026-06-01T07:41:59+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tpdq1i/trailer_rental_is_the_only_physical_asset_worth/op35jep/", "content": "Yeah they don't" }, { "id": "t1_oo9vs7g", "author": "/u/diabel", "updated": "2026-05-27T23:49:42+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tpdq1i/trailer_rental_is_the_only_physical_asset_worth/oo9vs7g/", "content": "Im confused. I can get the same trailer from Uhaul for $25/day. What differentiates you from them to make me want to pay $40/day??" }, { "id": "t1_ooacqk2", "author": "/u/ifish4u", "updated": "2026-05-28T01:23:06+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tpdq1i/trailer_rental_is_the_only_physical_asset_worth/ooacqk2/", "content": "Availability" }, { "id": "t1_ooatuvq", "author": "/u/cantfigureitatall", "updated": "2026-05-28T03:01:56+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tpdq1i/trailer_rental_is_the_only_physical_asset_worth/ooatuvq/", "content": "In the post they mention their location is close to multiple stores." }, { "id": "t1_ooq7tl7", "author": "/u/hardkorebigun", "updated": "2026-05-30T08:37:43+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tpdq1i/trailer_rental_is_the_only_physical_asset_worth/ooq7tl7/", "content": "Higher quality equipment. Uhaul trailers are junk as far as car hauler are concerned and you can also offer heavier duty trailers or dump trailers which is stuff uhaul doesn't do" }, { "id": "t1_ooqkbkt", "author": "/u/chinesiumjunk", "updated": "2026-05-30T10:27:19+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tpdq1i/trailer_rental_is_the_only_physical_asset_worth/ooqkbkt/", "content": "Exactly. Someone needs a trailer, how do they find this guy? People automatically think U-Haul." }, { "id": "t1_oo81v2d", "author": "/u/Slayerdragon1893", "updated": "2026-05-27T18:34:49+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tpdq1i/trailer_rental_is_the_only_physical_asset_worth/oo81v2d/", "content": "Do the trailers have plates?" }, { "id": "t1_oo8lzbx", "author": "/u/VisibleArt6924", "updated": "2026-05-27T20:03:13+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tpdq1i/trailer_rental_is_the_only_physical_asset_worth/oo8lzbx/", "content": "Brilliant idea really. until my husband got a pick up truck I didn’t realize how often we use it and how much we’ve helped our friends and everything when you don’t have anything to haul something with it sucks. people will pay my husband $60 to haul an old couch to the dump and the dump is like 2 miles down the road. It’s really nice. Actually you just drive up get out of your vehicle. Put the couch there and leave." }, { "id": "t1_oo8p203", "author": "/u/Fireguylevi", "updated": "2026-05-27T20:17:04+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tpdq1i/trailer_rental_is_the_only_physical_asset_worth/oo8p203/", "content": "What apps do you use? What Bluetooth boxes? Do you change codes often or are they programmed for single use? Do you have trackers on the trailers?" }, { "id": "t1_oo8o8cj", "author": "/u/Altruistic_Leg_964", "updated": "2026-05-27T20:13:23+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tpdq1i/trailer_rental_is_the_only_physical_asset_worth/oo8o8cj/", "content": "What happens if you don't have a tow hook?" }, { "id": "t1_ooaqngb", "author": "/u/fourth_box", "updated": "2026-05-28T02:42:55+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tpdq1i/trailer_rental_is_the_only_physical_asset_worth/ooaqngb/", "content": "Then dont rent a trailer?" }, { "id": "t1_oo8v58u", "author": "/u/Worldx22", "updated": "2026-05-27T20:44:29+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tpdq1i/trailer_rental_is_the_only_physical_asset_worth/oo8v58u/", "content": "You make the wife pull it if she wants the couch!" }, { "id": "t1_oo94g1n", "author": "/u/Altruistic_Leg_964", "updated": "2026-05-27T21:27:28+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tpdq1i/trailer_rental_is_the_only_physical_asset_worth/oo94g1n/", "content": "I'll maybe ask her mother.\n Or yours!\n (Is that how the mom jokes work?)" }, { "id": "t1_oo99or1", "author": "/u/LowHangingFruit20", "updated": "2026-05-27T21:52:59+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tpdq1i/trailer_rental_is_the_only_physical_asset_worth/oo99or1/", "content": "I’d figure there some serious liability exposure here. Do you carry insurance in case someone causes damage with your trailer or if the trailer fails somehow?" }, { "id": "t1_oo9nhzz", "author": "/u/cleopold73", "updated": "2026-05-27T23:04:33+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tpdq1i/trailer_rental_is_the_only_physical_asset_worth/oo9nhzz/", "content": "I wonder why people pay $40 for this when small u-haul vans are like $19.95 for this use case." }, { "id": "t1_oo9x5up", "author": "/u/FalseEnigma", "updated": "2026-05-27T23:57:17+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tpdq1i/trailer_rental_is_the_only_physical_asset_worth/oo9x5up/", "content": "19.95 plus mileage plus 200 dollar deposit" }, { "id": "t1_ooaqhte", "author": "/u/fourth_box", "updated": "2026-05-28T02:42:00+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tpdq1i/trailer_rental_is_the_only_physical_asset_worth/ooaqhte/", "content": "Insurance, plus deposit, plus mileage, plus gas ... in the end not 20 bucks." }, { "id": "t1_ooa3wlk", "author": "/u/rocksoidal", "updated": "2026-05-28T00:34:36+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tpdq1i/trailer_rental_is_the_only_physical_asset_worth/ooa3wlk/", "content": "How does $40/day compete with uhaul or home depot?" }, { "id": "t1_oojinlg", "author": "/u/TheeBrightSea", "updated": "2026-05-29T10:10:58+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tpdq1i/trailer_rental_is_the_only_physical_asset_worth/oojinlg/", "content": "I think the real winner here is that he managed to get spaces that are very close to those Ikea type stores. So people are probably willing to pay because of the convenience that they don't have to leave the parking lot or their stuff and get the U-Haul. I'm not sure where this person is located because where I used to live there were a lot of U-Hauls close to furniture stores but then they oddly disappeared" }, { "id": "t1_oobbvfc", "author": "/u/Euphoric_Act_1546", "updated": "2026-05-28T05:02:13+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tpdq1i/trailer_rental_is_the_only_physical_asset_worth/oobbvfc/", "content": "How does insurance work?" }, { "id": "t1_oo8030o", "author": "/u/Electronic-Fold-2416", "updated": "2026-05-27T18:27:01+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tpdq1i/trailer_rental_is_the_only_physical_asset_worth/oo8030o/", "content": "This is brilliant. Filling a market need, and getting paid for it!" }, { "id": "t1_oo8icao", "author": "/u/UrbanSunflower962", "updated": "2026-05-27T19:47:01+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tpdq1i/trailer_rental_is_the_only_physical_asset_worth/oo8icao/", "content": "How does insurance work in this situation?" }, { "id": "t1_oo8vvo5", "author": "/u/Genetic_Fox", "updated": "2026-05-27T20:47:48+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tpdq1i/trailer_rental_is_the_only_physical_asset_worth/oo8vvo5/", "content": "In the UK here, this is a great idea, just trailers need number plates matching the car 😔" }, { "id": "t1_oobxg5q", "author": "/u/nbraeman", "updated": "2026-05-28T07:55:04+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tpdq1i/trailer_rental_is_the_only_physical_asset_worth/oobxg5q/", "content": "And the car needs electrics for the trailer and a towball. It's not going to work well here." }, { "id": "t1_ooa54zw", "author": "/u/mpfdetroit", "updated": "2026-05-28T00:41:25+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tpdq1i/trailer_rental_is_the_only_physical_asset_worth/ooa54zw/", "content": "how do you advertise them?" }, { "id": "t1_ooagebn", "author": "/u/InYosefWeTrust", "updated": "2026-05-28T01:44:01+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tpdq1i/trailer_rental_is_the_only_physical_asset_worth/ooagebn/", "content": "While they're much more overhead, I could see dump trailers being a big rental niche as well. The big home improvement stores and UHaul have regular trailers, but not many have dump trailers to rent." }, { "id": "t1_oo8j1lz", "author": "/u/These-Resource3208", "updated": "2026-05-27T19:50:08+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tpdq1i/trailer_rental_is_the_only_physical_asset_worth/oo8j1lz/", "content": "I’ve been meaning to do this myself but with slightly larger trailers. The piece that bums me out is having to meet customers.\n Have you had any issues with returns? Any accidents? What’s maintenance like? Thoughts on expanding business? Also, are you only renting storage during summer months and taking trailer home in winter?" }, { "id": "t1_oo8ki2h", "author": "/u/ResearcherCold8018", "updated": "2026-05-27T19:56:37+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tpdq1i/trailer_rental_is_the_only_physical_asset_worth/oo8ki2h/", "content": "Here IKEA has trailers you can borrow, I think for free even" }, { "id": "t1_oo9cp6v", "author": "/u/moscowramada", "updated": "2026-05-27T22:07:54+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tpdq1i/trailer_rental_is_the_only_physical_asset_worth/oo9cp6v/", "content": "Very clever. Thanks for sharing!" }, { "id": "t1_oo9mn80", "author": "/u/CheatCodeWealth", "updated": "2026-05-27T22:59:58+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tpdq1i/trailer_rental_is_the_only_physical_asset_worth/oo9mn80/", "content": "I love this. I have a few questions out of curiosity: Did you mention what app you are using? Are you using a marketing plan to reach those customers that are waiting in the parking lot? Do you provide straps or harnesses with the rental?\n I like the idea of low maintenance and you have set it up to be passive, which is key. Being near a source of demand is pivotal. Great job!" }, { "id": "t1_ooaf9dy", "author": "/u/SirDouglasMouf", "updated": "2026-05-28T01:37:36+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tpdq1i/trailer_rental_is_the_only_physical_asset_worth/ooaf9dy/", "content": "$40 a day? What state? Ikea delivery is like $250. Would be curious if you have data on pricing or how you landed on $40.\n Congrats on a great business idea!" }, { "id": "t1_ooaz0au", "author": "/u/Nexzus_", "updated": "2026-05-28T03:34:19+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tpdq1i/trailer_rental_is_the_only_physical_asset_worth/ooaz0au/", "content": "How do you prevent theft or just forgetting to take off the mount? Most people don't carry, or even have, those." }, { "id": "t1_oobkhzs", "author": "/u/xPinkPeonies", "updated": "2026-05-28T06:08:16+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tpdq1i/trailer_rental_is_the_only_physical_asset_worth/oobkhzs/", "content": "This is brilliant" }, { "id": "t1_ooc7qzh", "author": "/u/Ill_Band365", "updated": "2026-05-28T09:23:36+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tpdq1i/trailer_rental_is_the_only_physical_asset_worth/ooc7qzh/", "content": "I was looking into doing trailer rental actually, but think I'll do towing for modified vehicles instead." }, { "id": "t1_oofl0rw", "author": "/u/Zestyclose-Treat-616", "updated": "2026-05-28T19:32:48+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tpdq1i/trailer_rental_is_the_only_physical_asset_worth/oofl0rw/", "content": "Honestly, this is one of the best examples of “boring problem = good business.”\n You basically found a high-friction inconvenience people urgently want solved right now , then removed yourself from the operational path as much as possible.\n What’s smart here is that the asset is simple, durable, understandable, and tied to real-world logistics demand instead of trends. Also interesting that the real moat is probably location + convenience more than the trailers themselves.\n Have you noticed any seasonality differences outside the obvious summer rush, or is the IKEA/furniture traffic surprisingly stable year-round?" }, { "id": "t1_oofwd46", "author": "/u/yawars20", "updated": "2026-05-28T20:23:59+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tpdq1i/trailer_rental_is_the_only_physical_asset_worth/oofwd46/", "content": "This honestly sounds way more sustainable than most “passive income” strategies people push online. You solved a real-world logistics problem with a boring asset that almost nobody wants to think about. That’s usually where the best small businesses are. The part I like most is the asymmetry. The trailers barely depreciate, maintenance is simple, demand is obvious, and the whole thing is semi-automated. Meanwhile people are taking huge risks chasing yield farming APYs or running AI trading bots with leverage hoping for 30% monthly returns. A lot of crypto passive income setups look great until liquidity disappears or volatility nukes the strategy. Your trailer business sounds closer to actual cash flow. Somebody will always need to move furniture home from IKEA. That demand is way more predictable than trying to guess whether leveraged prediction markets or DeFi yields stay profitable next quarter. Boring businesses with low maintenance and real demand are underrated." }, { "id": "t1_ooh65sp", "author": "/u/99_WS6", "updated": "2026-05-29T00:18:06+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tpdq1i/trailer_rental_is_the_only_physical_asset_worth/ooh65sp/", "content": "I thought about trailer rental for a fraction of a second but I live out in the country where everyone knows someone with a trailer. I didn't figure it would be very popular out here but I still toss the idea around from time to time. I mean we've got trailers out here barely being used so any money is extra." }, { "id": "t1_oohoe4j", "author": "/u/NotUrDadiBlameUrMoma", "updated": "2026-05-29T02:01:14+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tpdq1i/trailer_rental_is_the_only_physical_asset_worth/oohoe4j/", "content": "I respect your hustle. However, out of all my hustles, it's my str's that have really produced. I'll admit that my 20+ years experience of managing my regular rental units has helped tremendously." }, { "id": "t1_ooi0lcy", "author": "/u/Grolsch0311", "updated": "2026-05-29T03:11:46+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tpdq1i/trailer_rental_is_the_only_physical_asset_worth/ooi0lcy/", "content": "Smart individual here. 👆" }, { "id": "t1_ook2dg2", "author": "/u/Pale_Will_5239", "updated": "2026-05-29T12:19:25+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tpdq1i/trailer_rental_is_the_only_physical_asset_worth/ook2dg2/", "content": "What's the beach equivalent?" }, { "id": "t1_oombixc", "author": "/u/Sir_and_Bug_MN", "updated": "2026-05-29T18:29:10+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tpdq1i/trailer_rental_is_the_only_physical_asset_worth/oombixc/", "content": "How much is your insurance? You do have insurance right?" }, { "id": "t1_ooozh6a", "author": "/u/sam_narulaaa", "updated": "2026-05-30T02:54:16+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tpdq1i/trailer_rental_is_the_only_physical_asset_worth/ooozh6a/", "content": "[ Removed by Reddit ]" }, { "id": "t1_oorf2of", "author": "/u/LeaderAtLeading", "updated": "2026-05-30T13:45:49+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tpdq1i/trailer_rental_is_the_only_physical_asset_worth/oorf2of/", "content": "Trailer rental works until someone damages one or disappears with it. The headache is not the asset it is the people. Do you have a security deposit system that actually covers damage? Most do not." }, { "id": "t1_ooulglh", "author": "/u/DevilsPlaything42", "updated": "2026-05-30T23:28:27+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tpdq1i/trailer_rental_is_the_only_physical_asset_worth/ooulglh/", "content": "OP literally wrote "I had one guy dent a fender once but the insurance through the app covered it without me even having to pick up the phone."" }, { "id": "t1_op48p6e", "author": "/u/Character_Energy25", "updated": "2026-06-01T12:39:41+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tpdq1i/trailer_rental_is_the_only_physical_asset_worth/op48p6e/", "content": "Do the trailers have plates?" }, { "id": "t1_opfhbte", "author": "/u/Used-For-Purchases", "updated": "2026-06-03T01:16:08+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tpdq1i/trailer_rental_is_the_only_physical_asset_worth/opfhbte/", "content": "Funny I see this post now. I literally just finished my trailer rental agreement, ordered a GPS unit for it and cleaned it up and prepped it for its first rental. Once the GPS arrives I'm posting it on marketplace for rent!" }, { "id": "t1_oo8bg1q", "author": "/u/Shadow_Tango", "updated": "2026-05-27T19:16:39+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tpdq1i/trailer_rental_is_the_only_physical_asset_worth/oo8bg1q/", "content": "Thanks for sharing your story…What is the app called that you use?" }, { "id": "t1_oonydlr", "author": "/u/Adonaic", "updated": "2026-05-29T23:17:07+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tpdq1i/trailer_rental_is_the_only_physical_asset_worth/oonydlr/", "content": "I thought about it but you know U-Haul, literally anywhere and you don’t have to go back to your spot to drop it. Even out of state. How do you compete with that?" } ] }, { "source": "r/passive_income top month", "id": "t3_1tnla8w", "title": "I went from making $500 in a single day to losing everything. How a client’s project keyword got me banned.", "author": "/u/WorkerSome7813", "updated": "2026-05-25T20:42:35+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tnla8w/i_went_from_making_500_in_a_single_day_to_losing/", "content": "I want to share a story from my freelancing days that still stings. It holds an important lesson for anyone trying to start a side hustle or earn money online...\n Back in 2019, I ran a very successful gig doing banner ads and website promotions. I started small, but my work was good. The platform began promoting my profile, and my business really took off....\n On September 11, 2019, everything changed. I received a massive order worth $500 (proof attached). I worked hard, finished the job, and the client loved it..\n After that, my orders continued to grow. In less than nine months, I made a total of $6,260. I was a top seller and knew all the rules well...\n Because I understood the rules, I always tried to do the right thing...\n The first time a buyer asked me to take the deal outside of the platform to pay lower fees, I immediately said no. But the buyer kept insisting, and our chat was flagged as "SUSPICIOUS ACTIVITY" I received a warning even though I had done nothing wrong.\n Later, a second customer asked if they could pay me in crypto. At that time, I didn’t know much about crypto, so I told them, "SORRY, I AM NOT ALLOWED TO DO THAT."\n The buyer insisted it was fine, but I stuck to my guns and kept the deal on the platform. Everything went back to normal.\n Then came the final trap.\n I got a normal order from a client with a Crypto IPO website. They wanted me to do marketing for them. We chatted about their website features and how I could help them get traffic. Since it was a crypto project, we used the word "CRYPTO" frequently.\n The platform uses automated bots to scan messages for inappropriate content. The bot detected the word "CRYPTO" and mistakenly assumed we were trying to arrange an off-site payment. The system slapped me with an automatic, temporary ban.\n I emailed them to explain, and a real support agent recognized it was a mistake and restored my account. However, there was a catch: the system permanently deleted all my top-ranking gigs.\n I was devastated. I contacted support again and explained that those gigs had taken years of hard work to build. I asked if they could restore them, but they said they needed to investigate my account further.\n During that check, a different support agent reviewed my old messages. They found the chat where the other client had asked about crypto the one I had already refused! The agent misunderstood the situation and permanently banned my account.\n All my reviews, hard work, and steady income disappeared in an instant.\n The lesson I learned is this: When you build your business on someone else's platform, you don’t own it. Even if you follow the rules and say no to bad deals, a careless bot or an overzealous support agent can make a mistake that wipes you out.\n If you are growing a side hustle right now, keep these two things in mind:\n Platform bots are automated and can make errors. Just discussing certain topics (like crypto) can get you flagged by accident.\n Try to get your own website or direct clients as soon as you start earning steady money. Don’t rely on just one platform; a single mistake shouldn't ruin your hard work overnight.\n Protect what you build.\n submitted by /u/WorkerSome7813\n [link] [comments]", "contentHtml": "
\"I

I want to share a story from my freelancing days that still stings. It holds an important lesson for anyone trying to start a side hustle or earn money online...

Back in 2019, I ran a very successful gig doing banner ads and website promotions. I started small, but my work was good. The platform began promoting my profile, and my business really took off....

On September 11, 2019, everything changed. I received a massive order worth $500 (proof attached). I worked hard, finished the job, and the client loved it..

After that, my orders continued to grow. In less than nine months, I made a total of $6,260. I was a top seller and knew all the rules well...

Because I understood the rules, I always tried to do the right thing...

The first time a buyer asked me to take the deal outside of the platform to pay lower fees, I immediately said no. But the buyer kept insisting, and our chat was flagged as "SUSPICIOUS ACTIVITY" I received a warning even though I had done nothing wrong.

Later, a second customer asked if they could pay me in crypto. At that time, I didn’t know much about crypto, so I told them, "SORRY, I AM NOT ALLOWED TO DO THAT."

The buyer insisted it was fine, but I stuck to my guns and kept the deal on the platform. Everything went back to normal.

Then came the final trap.

I got a normal order from a client with a Crypto IPO website. They wanted me to do marketing for them. We chatted about their website features and how I could help them get traffic. Since it was a crypto project, we used the word "CRYPTO" frequently.

The platform uses automated bots to scan messages for inappropriate content. The bot detected the word "CRYPTO" and mistakenly assumed we were trying to arrange an off-site payment. The system slapped me with an automatic, temporary ban.

I emailed them to explain, and a real support agent recognized it was a mistake and restored my account. However, there was a catch: the system permanently deleted all my top-ranking gigs.

I was devastated. I contacted support again and explained that those gigs had taken years of hard work to build. I asked if they could restore them, but they said they needed to investigate my account further.

During that check, a different support agent reviewed my old messages. They found the chat where the other client had asked about crypto the one I had already refused! The agent misunderstood the situation and permanently banned my account.

All my reviews, hard work, and steady income disappeared in an instant.

The lesson I learned is this: When you build your business on someone else's platform, you don’t own it. Even if you follow the rules and say no to bad deals, a careless bot or an overzealous support agent can make a mistake that wipes you out.

If you are growing a side hustle right now, keep these two things in mind:

Platform bots are automated and can make errors. Just discussing certain topics (like crypto) can get you flagged by accident.

Try to get your own website or direct clients as soon as you start earning steady money. Don’t rely on just one platform; a single mistake shouldn't ruin your hard work overnight.

Protect what you build.

submitted by /u/WorkerSome7813
[link] [comments]
", "comments": [ { "id": "t1_onupbcm", "author": "/u/AutoModerator", "updated": "2026-05-25T20:42:37+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tnla8w/i_went_from_making_500_in_a_single_day_to_losing/onupbcm/", "content": "Check out the Community Highlights for current and future Mod Vetted opportunities and Newsletter Episodes.\n Please do due diligence on any crypto opportunity. A simple google search could save you a fortune.\n I am a bot, and this action was performed automatically. Please contact the moderators of this subreddit if you have any questions or concerns." }, { "id": "t1_onuqmox", "author": "/u/Glittering_Bet_4617", "updated": "2026-05-25T20:49:10+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tnla8w/i_went_from_making_500_in_a_single_day_to_losing/onuqmox/", "content": "Oh thats scary you did everything right and lost it all because of a bot 😢 this is a tough world" }, { "id": "t1_onur1dm", "author": "/u/WorkerSome7813", "updated": "2026-05-25T20:51:16+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tnla8w/i_went_from_making_500_in_a_single_day_to_losing/onur1dm/", "content": "It was tough.. but I accept my mistake... I was naive to rely 100% on one platform.\n It taught me a brutal lesson: always have a backup plan and own your own setups." }, { "id": "t1_onus5h9", "author": "/u/reigorius", "updated": "2026-05-25T20:56:51+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tnla8w/i_went_from_making_500_in_a_single_day_to_losing/onus5h9/", "content": "And a human doorknob..." }, { "id": "t1_onuswa3", "author": "/u/WorkerSome7813", "updated": "2026-05-25T21:00:36+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tnla8w/i_went_from_making_500_in_a_single_day_to_losing/onuswa3/", "content": "Right? The bot made the mistake.. but the human doorknob made sure it stayed that way. Unbelievable logic on their end." }, { "id": "t1_onw8xjc", "author": "", "updated": "2026-05-26T01:54:09+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tnla8w/i_went_from_making_500_in_a_single_day_to_losing/onw8xjc/", "content": "[deleted]" }, { "id": "t1_onuq097", "author": "/u/WorkerSome7813", "updated": "2026-05-25T20:46:02+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tnla8w/i_went_from_making_500_in_a_single_day_to_losing/onuq097/", "content": "I just wanted to share this because it was my mistake for not fully realizing how aggressive those automated keyword filters can be.\n If this story helps even just one person protect their business and read the fine print, then sharing it was 100% worth it.\n Good luck guys.." }, { "id": "t1_onuv3m7", "author": "/u/Then-Task6480", "updated": "2026-05-25T21:11:42+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tnla8w/i_went_from_making_500_in_a_single_day_to_losing/onuv3m7/", "content": "What's the platform" }, { "id": "t1_onuv6lf", "author": "/u/WorkerSome7813", "updated": "2026-05-25T21:12:06+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tnla8w/i_went_from_making_500_in_a_single_day_to_losing/onuv6lf/", "content": "Brother i am taking about fiverr" }, { "id": "t1_onv5gwe", "author": "/u/Larynxb", "updated": "2026-05-25T22:06:01+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tnla8w/i_went_from_making_500_in_a_single_day_to_losing/onv5gwe/", "content": "No you didn't" }, { "id": "t1_onv5k89", "author": "/u/WorkerSome7813", "updated": "2026-05-25T22:06:31+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tnla8w/i_went_from_making_500_in_a_single_day_to_losing/onv5k89/", "content": "Sorry my bad.. let me add it" }, { "id": "t1_onv5mw0", "author": "/u/WorkerSome7813", "updated": "2026-05-25T22:06:57+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tnla8w/i_went_from_making_500_in_a_single_day_to_losing/onv5mw0/", "content": "I wrote gig and i thought i have mentioned it" }, { "id": "t1_onxzyt5", "author": "/u/Equivalent-Jello-733", "updated": "2026-05-26T09:56:14+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tnla8w/i_went_from_making_500_in_a_single_day_to_losing/onxzyt5/", "content": "it's okay at least you made it clear" }, { "id": "t1_onv266m", "author": "/u/Then-Task6480", "updated": "2026-05-25T21:48:21+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tnla8w/i_went_from_making_500_in_a_single_day_to_losing/onv266m/", "content": "Damn I missed that" }, { "id": "t1_onvawwe", "author": "/u/thebadfem", "updated": "2026-05-25T22:36:42+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tnla8w/i_went_from_making_500_in_a_single_day_to_losing/onvawwe/", "content": "It was pretty obviously fiverr, not sure why youre being down voted." }, { "id": "t1_oo00bya", "author": "/u/Larynxb", "updated": "2026-05-26T16:30:20+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tnla8w/i_went_from_making_500_in_a_single_day_to_losing/oo00bya/", "content": "Because originally it was a dismissive comment saying that they had stated it was fiverr, when in fact it was nowhere in the text." }, { "id": "t1_oohggul", "author": "/u/racso20", "updated": "2026-05-29T01:16:36+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tnla8w/i_went_from_making_500_in_a_single_day_to_losing/oohggul/", "content": "In what way is it obviously fiverr?" }, { "id": "t1_oohkomc", "author": "/u/thebadfem", "updated": "2026-05-29T01:40:13+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tnla8w/i_went_from_making_500_in_a_single_day_to_losing/oohkomc/", "content": "The hashtag gives it away, not to mention there are only a couple of rival platforms." }, { "id": "t1_oohl1ox", "author": "/u/racso20", "updated": "2026-05-29T01:42:13+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tnla8w/i_went_from_making_500_in_a_single_day_to_losing/oohl1ox/", "content": "What hashtag?" }, { "id": "t1_onuxehm", "author": "/u/Automatic-Listen-578", "updated": "2026-05-25T21:23:22+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tnla8w/i_went_from_making_500_in_a_single_day_to_losing/onuxehm/", "content": "Common experience back in the day when a certain platform (who shall remain unnamed) sent me a congratulatory email advising that I would be receiving my first check since, after some years of work, I had finally reached their $100 threshold. This was followed up by a notice 3 days later that, after a manual review by someone in India, all my sites were banned and my account was terminated. Apparently, there was one minor detail on one site that the reviewer objected too and all 10 sites were banned. Be nice my freaking a**." }, { "id": "t1_onuy7gn", "author": "/u/WorkerSome7813", "updated": "2026-05-25T21:27:32+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tnla8w/i_went_from_making_500_in_a_single_day_to_losing/onuy7gn/", "content": "That makes sense... And to lose years of hard work right before getting paid over one tiny thing is just crazy.\n What happened next.. Did you end up building your own websites after that?" }, { "id": "t1_onuzafh", "author": "/u/Automatic-Listen-578", "updated": "2026-05-25T21:33:12+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tnla8w/i_went_from_making_500_in_a_single_day_to_losing/onuzafh/", "content": "They were always my websites. I just couldn’t monetize them with Adsense anymore. Will never consider putting my eggs in that basket again." }, { "id": "t1_onuzkjn", "author": "/u/WorkerSome7813", "updated": "2026-05-25T21:34:41+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tnla8w/i_went_from_making_500_in_a_single_day_to_losing/onuzkjn/", "content": "Ohh it make sense.. bro It is a hard lesson, but owning your own setup is the only way to protect your work.\n Keep growing 👍🏻" }, { "id": "t1_onv91hv", "author": "/u/Preconf", "updated": "2026-05-25T22:26:00+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tnla8w/i_went_from_making_500_in_a_single_day_to_losing/onv91hv/", "content": "I really think they deserve naming" }, { "id": "t1_onv9bog", "author": "/u/Automatic-Listen-578", "updated": "2026-05-25T22:27:36+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tnla8w/i_went_from_making_500_in_a_single_day_to_losing/onv9bog/", "content": "You’ll just have to google it" }, { "id": "t1_ooeaqcb", "author": "/u/Infamous-Mousse-4181", "updated": "2026-05-28T16:10:12+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tnla8w/i_went_from_making_500_in_a_single_day_to_losing/ooeaqcb/", "content": "You didn't sue them?! Jeez" }, { "id": "t1_ooebdsf", "author": "/u/Automatic-Listen-578", "updated": "2026-05-28T16:13:01+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tnla8w/i_went_from_making_500_in_a_single_day_to_losing/ooebdsf/", "content": "Nah. They were only $115.37 short of making a billion dollars that quarter and I felt bad for them. They needed the money." }, { "id": "t1_ooec6wd", "author": "/u/Infamous-Mousse-4181", "updated": "2026-05-28T16:16:31+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tnla8w/i_went_from_making_500_in_a_single_day_to_losing/ooec6wd/", "content": "Who cares" }, { "id": "t1_onvli8a", "author": "/u/Deep_Picture6111", "updated": "2026-05-25T23:37:44+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tnla8w/i_went_from_making_500_in_a_single_day_to_losing/onvli8a/", "content": "I've lost 3 100k tiktok accounts because of automated message flagging. It is a real problem with AI" }, { "id": "t1_onw4wxp", "author": "/u/WorkerSome7813", "updated": "2026-05-26T01:30:40+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tnla8w/i_went_from_making_500_in_a_single_day_to_losing/onw4wxp/", "content": "So sorry to hear that.. That is so awful. Losing three big accounts to bad bots is crazy.\n It shows how broken these systems really are.\n Did you ever get them back?" }, { "id": "t1_onwn7nn", "author": "/u/Deep_Picture6111", "updated": "2026-05-26T03:20:42+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tnla8w/i_went_from_making_500_in_a_single_day_to_losing/onwn7nn/", "content": "No!! What happened to them is despite age verifying and providing my ID, every time around 120k I would suddenly get restricted to a 16 year old account. Stripped of all monetization immediately. I'd appeal, they'd say nah you are in fact 16, despite having my actual birthday clearly listed on file. I have never been able to get ahold of a real human being to even look at how obviously absurd this is. My current account just hit 130k and I've well made my backup and sent my loyals there. I await the notification with dread. My biggest made it to 142k before getting stripped, it's at 110k and dropping steadily 😔 TO BE FAIR my followers do constantly comment on my baby face but I'm nearing 30 and they have my ID on file." }, { "id": "t1_onv0e6v", "author": "/u/VIDGuide", "updated": "2026-05-25T21:39:01+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tnla8w/i_went_from_making_500_in_a_single_day_to_losing/onv0e6v/", "content": "See people say the AI bots are bad, but they’re just trained on shitty humans to start with" }, { "id": "t1_onv0mbt", "author": "/u/WorkerSome7813", "updated": "2026-05-25T21:40:11+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tnla8w/i_went_from_making_500_in_a_single_day_to_losing/onv0mbt/", "content": "So true brother😂 The bots are only as good as the data we give them.... So eventually If the data is bad, the bot will be bad too." }, { "id": "t1_onux67m", "author": "/u/LibertyOrDeath-2021", "updated": "2026-05-25T21:22:12+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tnla8w/i_went_from_making_500_in_a_single_day_to_losing/onux67m/", "content": "Someone once told me they had a friend who would pay through ebay or another payment app for dinner, drinks etc. They never carried cash so it made sense but they had a bad sense of humor. They would add funny comments to the payment like killing kittens or wire fraud or terror plot. It was funny until they paused his account and some of his friends accounts, then came Homeland Security to interview them. Its fine now but no one is friends with anymore." }, { "id": "t1_onuxn2w", "author": "/u/WorkerSome7813", "updated": "2026-05-25T21:24:36+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tnla8w/i_went_from_making_500_in_a_single_day_to_losing/onuxn2w/", "content": "That is wild... It’s crazy how some platforms have absolutely zero context or sense of humor. Imagine getting flagged for that!" }, { "id": "t1_onv35i6", "author": "/u/LibertyOrDeath-2021", "updated": "2026-05-25T21:53:29+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tnla8w/i_went_from_making_500_in_a_single_day_to_losing/onv35i6/", "content": "It’s because its the baking industry and because there are tons of laws against sponsoring terrorism. Banks are required to chase financial transactions that may funnel money to terrorists, certain government, etc." }, { "id": "t1_onv3nxr", "author": "/u/WorkerSome7813", "updated": "2026-05-25T21:56:13+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tnla8w/i_went_from_making_500_in_a_single_day_to_losing/onv3nxr/", "content": "Completely agree, that makes a lot of sense." }, { "id": "t1_ooi3pne", "author": "/u/BeccyThorne", "updated": "2026-05-29T03:31:33+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tnla8w/i_went_from_making_500_in_a_single_day_to_losing/ooi3pne/", "content": "Yeah, it’s wild how sensitive those systems can be. They don’t really consider intent or context, just keywords. Makes you think twice about what you say online!" }, { "id": "t1_oo3f3fh", "author": "/u/miss_dykawitz", "updated": "2026-05-27T02:27:05+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tnla8w/i_went_from_making_500_in_a_single_day_to_losing/oo3f3fh/", "content": "ebay? the auction platform?" }, { "id": "t1_oo5puc1", "author": "/u/LibertyOrDeath-2021", "updated": "2026-05-27T12:17:07+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tnla8w/i_went_from_making_500_in_a_single_day_to_losing/oo5puc1/", "content": "lol I was thinking paypal but wrote ebay" }, { "id": "t1_onve21t", "author": "/u/Single-Virus4935", "updated": "2026-05-25T22:54:47+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tnla8w/i_went_from_making_500_in_a_single_day_to_losing/onve21t/", "content": "We had something similar: We had a big online community and aomeone registred our domainname as a trademark. We had a german trade mark but the domains were .com. The domain was transfered and later their trademark was invalidated but they already transfered it to another registrar under a different name and we never got the name back. The new name was internatinally registred and we used a registrar which we know wont comply with random apeals immediatly" }, { "id": "t1_onw3txt", "author": "/u/WorkerSome7813", "updated": "2026-05-26T01:24:15+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tnla8w/i_went_from_making_500_in_a_single_day_to_losing/onw3txt/", "content": "Wow, that is a complete nightmare. Bro.. It’s crazy how people can use loopholes like that to just steal years of your hard work. It really sucks that you never got the name back, but using a safer registrar now is a smart move.." }, { "id": "t1_onvvaxs", "author": "/u/hyperimpossible", "updated": "2026-05-26T00:35:14+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tnla8w/i_went_from_making_500_in_a_single_day_to_losing/onvvaxs/", "content": "The initial automatic bot banned you temporarily, was then restored by a human, but then it was another human who reviewed your old messages and misunderstood the situation and removed you, right? So at the end of the day, it was a human who made the mistake, right?" }, { "id": "t1_onw3a66", "author": "/u/WorkerSome7813", "updated": "2026-05-26T01:21:05+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tnla8w/i_went_from_making_500_in_a_single_day_to_losing/onw3a66/", "content": "Exactly, you got it right. 💯 The bot started the mess, but a human agent who didn't understand the context is the one who actually made the final mistake and wiped everything out." }, { "id": "t1_oo2a721", "author": "/u/curiousgens", "updated": "2026-05-26T22:46:43+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tnla8w/i_went_from_making_500_in_a_single_day_to_losing/oo2a721/", "content": "It's called platform risk. Yes at the first point of success, you must diversify asap!" }, { "id": "t1_onuse0o", "author": "/u/WorkerSome7813", "updated": "2026-05-25T20:58:02+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tnla8w/i_went_from_making_500_in_a_single_day_to_losing/onuse0o/", "content": "If anyone else has faced a sudden ban while relying on a marketplace platform, please share your story below! I’d love to hear your experiences." }, { "id": "t1_oo7lh2d", "author": "/u/throwawayStomnia", "updated": "2026-05-27T17:25:20+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tnla8w/i_went_from_making_500_in_a_single_day_to_losing/oo7lh2d/", "content": "I got banned from Wise for a chargeback after I transferred all of my money from a Polish bank there when I lost my card. The reason for that, is because the nutcase agent that took my call to ONLY block my debit card cancelled all transactions performed that day, because "they were performed on Georgian territory" (Where I've been living for 3 years 🤡). He also locked my Polish government ID without my permission." }, { "id": "t1_onv2skd", "author": "", "updated": "2026-05-25T21:51:36+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tnla8w/i_went_from_making_500_in_a_single_day_to_losing/onv2skd/", "content": "[deleted]" }, { "id": "t1_onv3cpj", "author": "/u/WorkerSome7813", "updated": "2026-05-25T21:54:34+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tnla8w/i_went_from_making_500_in_a_single_day_to_losing/onv3cpj/", "content": "That is good advice, but I actually gave up on them. Realizing it was my mistake to trust them made me change my focus. Now I get direct projects on my own, and it is working out much better!" }, { "id": "t1_onvjd2o", "author": "/u/Grrannt", "updated": "2026-05-25T23:25:18+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tnla8w/i_went_from_making_500_in_a_single_day_to_losing/onvjd2o/", "content": "You keep saying it was your mistake, but from the details in your story I'm not seeing where you made any mistakes." }, { "id": "t1_oo7m1ud", "author": "/u/throwawayStomnia", "updated": "2026-05-27T17:27:45+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tnla8w/i_went_from_making_500_in_a_single_day_to_losing/oo7m1ud/", "content": "Relying on one platform for all of your income. Obviously, this doesn't excuse Fiverr's shitty behaviour, however, this could have been prevented by relying on multiple platforms, which is why OP keeps saying this is "his mistake"." }, { "id": "t1_onv3q2e", "author": "", "updated": "2026-05-25T21:56:32+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tnla8w/i_went_from_making_500_in_a_single_day_to_losing/onv3q2e/", "content": "[deleted]" }, { "id": "t1_onv47r8", "author": "/u/WorkerSome7813", "updated": "2026-05-25T21:59:11+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tnla8w/i_went_from_making_500_in_a_single_day_to_losing/onv47r8/", "content": "That is a great point. It has been over 5 years now, so maybe their filters are better, but I built so many direct contacts over the years that I am already getting plenty of work" }, { "id": "t1_onv4fij", "author": "", "updated": "2026-05-25T22:00:21+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tnla8w/i_went_from_making_500_in_a_single_day_to_losing/onv4fij/", "content": "[deleted]" }, { "id": "t1_onv4vm5", "author": "/u/WorkerSome7813", "updated": "2026-05-25T22:02:47+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tnla8w/i_went_from_making_500_in_a_single_day_to_losing/onv4vm5/", "content": "Haha fair point, but I actually just saw another post of some other platform today that reminded me of it.. and It made me realize how crazy the whole thing was, so I figured I'd share the story!" }, { "id": "t1_onv65zo", "author": "/u/Zebrakiller", "updated": "2026-05-25T22:09:52+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tnla8w/i_went_from_making_500_in_a_single_day_to_losing/onv65zo/", "content": "The BBB is a private company that is no more powerful than yelp. They aren’t a regulatory body or any kind of government agency. It’s just a company that reviews other companies." }, { "id": "t1_onv6iag", "author": "", "updated": "2026-05-25T22:11:47+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tnla8w/i_went_from_making_500_in_a_single_day_to_losing/onv6iag/", "content": "[deleted]" }, { "id": "t1_onv8xs5", "author": "/u/Leviathon713", "updated": "2026-05-25T22:25:25+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tnla8w/i_went_from_making_500_in_a_single_day_to_losing/onv8xs5/", "content": "How are they "way" more powerful?\n The BBB is a paid for membership. You pay, you get good reviews (grades in their case). You don't and you dont.\n They present themselves as a neutral consumer watchdog group. In actuality, they are more like any employer's HR department. Not there to help you. There to help the business. The ones paying them. That isn't the consumer.\n There is no regulatory authority to them whatsoever.\n Edit: This little punk called me "hateful" and deleted his comment. I'm being the opposite of hateful. I'm helping stop idiots like u/3dprintedglok from parroting misinformation." }, { "id": "t1_onvar4x", "author": "/u/thebadfem", "updated": "2026-05-25T22:35:45+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tnla8w/i_went_from_making_500_in_a_single_day_to_losing/onvar4x/", "content": "Tale as old as time, sadly. Ive seen this stuff happen many times, for many people, over 15+ years, and across multiple platforms. Because these sites are run by idiots and they ban first, ask questions later. Sorry it happened to you and I hope you built back your business." }, { "id": "t1_onw41v7", "author": "/u/WorkerSome7813", "updated": "2026-05-26T01:25:32+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tnla8w/i_went_from_making_500_in_a_single_day_to_losing/onw41v7/", "content": "So true, it really is a tale as old as time... And pretty obvious It’s very crazy how common this is across almost every major platform.\n Thank you for the support." }, { "id": "t1_ooebi62", "author": "/u/Infamous-Mousse-4181", "updated": "2026-05-28T16:13:33+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tnla8w/i_went_from_making_500_in_a_single_day_to_losing/ooebi62/", "content": "Law suits are long overdue" }, { "id": "t1_oofal9f", "author": "/u/thebadfem", "updated": "2026-05-28T18:46:04+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tnla8w/i_went_from_making_500_in_a_single_day_to_losing/oofal9f/", "content": "I wish. But I don't think legally, you can force them to keep someone on their platform." }, { "id": "t1_onvetq0", "author": "/u/CoursePotential9296", "updated": "2026-05-25T22:59:09+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tnla8w/i_went_from_making_500_in_a_single_day_to_losing/onvetq0/", "content": "This is why diversifying traffic sources matters. One platform, one client, one keyword — single points of failure everywhere. What are you rebuilding with now?" }, { "id": "t1_onw4l2l", "author": "/u/WorkerSome7813", "updated": "2026-05-26T01:28:42+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tnla8w/i_went_from_making_500_in_a_single_day_to_losing/onw4l2l/", "content": "Exactly. Relying on a single source is an absolute trap.\n I completely shifted away from platforms and built a network of direct clients instead. And it's way more secure." }, { "id": "t1_onvnlbp", "author": "/u/ChampionStrange7719", "updated": "2026-05-25T23:49:50+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tnla8w/i_went_from_making_500_in_a_single_day_to_losing/onvnlbp/", "content": "I always try to keep this in mind, but stories like this help to keep it front of mind. Thanks for sharing!!!" }, { "id": "t1_onw51vi", "author": "/u/WorkerSome7813", "updated": "2026-05-26T01:31:28+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tnla8w/i_went_from_making_500_in_a_single_day_to_losing/onw51vi/", "content": "Thank you!\n I am really glad it helps.\n It is an easy thing to forget until it happens to you, so I wanted to share my story. 🙌" }, { "id": "t1_onxxo2u", "author": "/u/Warm-Researcher-6884", "updated": "2026-05-26T09:37:07+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tnla8w/i_went_from_making_500_in_a_single_day_to_losing/onxxo2u/", "content": "You must be feeling sad as going from making $500 to losing everything really pissing me off just by reading your story." }, { "id": "t1_ooeblyn", "author": "/u/Infamous-Mousse-4181", "updated": "2026-05-28T16:14:01+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tnla8w/i_went_from_making_500_in_a_single_day_to_losing/ooeblyn/", "content": "The law suits are long overdue" }, { "id": "t1_onvco4o", "author": "/u/Designer-Pound6654", "updated": "2026-05-25T22:46:50+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tnla8w/i_went_from_making_500_in_a_single_day_to_losing/onvco4o/", "content": "We recently got a lot of shit coming from the selling platform (like Am z * but not them) where they force us to play their rules, subdue to their fees. If we do play along, our price would be triple what we would normally sell. And so we chose to build our own website to minimize it. Most we use would be just Shopify and stuff to get it off the ground and CMS system because we're smol and not well invested. But at least I feel like we're alright and not playing the outrageous rules (like no reason 7 or 14-day return?!). So yes, I agree, always expand your channel, don't sit at one place because eventually you're living on another person's property, they can evict you off by any means, intentionally or unintentionally." }, { "id": "t1_onw4ag9", "author": "/u/WorkerSome7813", "updated": "2026-05-26T01:26:58+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tnla8w/i_went_from_making_500_in_a_single_day_to_losing/onw4ag9/", "content": "You made the absolute right move... Marketplace fees and forced return policies can completely destroy sellers margins... And i know return rarios are very high nowadays and Moving to Shopify is the smartest way to take back control, build a real asset, and stop renting space on someone else's land.\n Best of luck buddy with the new site!" }, { "id": "t1_onvp6v5", "author": "/u/moneymakinkelly", "updated": "2026-05-25T23:59:16+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tnla8w/i_went_from_making_500_in_a_single_day_to_losing/onvp6v5/", "content": "That’s awful! Hope you rebuilt" }, { "id": "t1_onw3ffx", "author": "/u/WorkerSome7813", "updated": "2026-05-26T01:21:57+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tnla8w/i_went_from_making_500_in_a_single_day_to_losing/onw3ffx/", "content": "Thank you! It was brutal at the time, but I actually built back much better with my own direct clients. It turned out to be a blessing in disguise! 🙌" }, { "id": "t1_onzvuo2", "author": "/u/DestinedNomad", "updated": "2026-05-26T16:10:19+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tnla8w/i_went_from_making_500_in_a_single_day_to_losing/onzvuo2/", "content": "Thanks for sharing. I also moved away from FL platforms for this reason. There is no human to reason with or explain your issues to. I don't remember clearly now, but I had some issues about KYC at up**k. I have forgotten what it was exactly. It got resolved, but their lack of transparency and the lack of an actual human element (even the people in support are unhelpful) made me realize that there is no point in continuing there because sooner or later, there will be issues and there will be no recourse. What a terrible thing to lose all your best gigs. I am glad things turned out better for as a solopreneur." }, { "id": "t1_oo19yf5", "author": "/u/genericexcuse01", "updated": "2026-05-26T19:52:45+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tnla8w/i_went_from_making_500_in_a_single_day_to_losing/oo19yf5/", "content": "Sorry that happened to you. I’ve had my own site (that I built on my own, well before the age of AI), I’d recommend you do the same" }, { "id": "t1_oo24opi", "author": "/u/Dazzling-Maybe5115", "updated": "2026-05-26T22:17:21+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tnla8w/i_went_from_making_500_in_a_single_day_to_losing/oo24opi/", "content": "Dude… it’s Fiverr, they did you a favor. No more gig for peanuts and no more commission to israeli companies" }, { "id": "t1_oo5psdg", "author": "/u/Suppa_Cute", "updated": "2026-05-27T12:16:49+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tnla8w/i_went_from_making_500_in_a_single_day_to_losing/oo5psdg/", "content": "Let me add the story of a Mangaka or Manga artist that lost years of work because they trusted google and an automated bot flagged their uploaded art has copyrighted and their account and cloud storage of years was wiped out.\n Imagine how many google logins you have or files you have on the cloud. Imagine loosing everything." }, { "id": "t1_ooebyig", "author": "/u/Infamous-Mousse-4181", "updated": "2026-05-28T16:15:31+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tnla8w/i_went_from_making_500_in_a_single_day_to_losing/ooebyig/", "content": "The law suits are looking overdue" }, { "id": "t1_onxft83", "author": "/u/mosesmedh", "updated": "2026-05-26T06:58:30+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tnla8w/i_went_from_making_500_in_a_single_day_to_losing/onxft83/", "content": "A kind advise,\n When a client asked that you take a job out and they keep insisting it’s better to report them yourself or flag them before Upwork does" }, { "id": "t1_onxzuuu", "author": "/u/Equivalent-Jello-733", "updated": "2026-05-26T09:55:23+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tnla8w/i_went_from_making_500_in_a_single_day_to_losing/onxzuuu/", "content": "WOAH" }, { "id": "t1_onywckn", "author": "/u/Secure-Inevitable-53", "updated": "2026-05-26T13:25:01+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tnla8w/i_went_from_making_500_in_a_single_day_to_losing/onywckn/", "content": "Thank you !" }, { "id": "t1_onz2pqm", "author": "/u/KevinN38", "updated": "2026-05-26T13:57:06+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tnla8w/i_went_from_making_500_in_a_single_day_to_losing/onz2pqm/", "content": "but this was very long time ago right.? Thing has changed a lot recently" }, { "id": "t1_onz4dsd", "author": "/u/OnlyReveal6", "updated": "2026-05-26T14:05:14+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tnla8w/i_went_from_making_500_in_a_single_day_to_losing/onz4dsd/", "content": "Can you PM me your New Website." }, { "id": "t1_oo146xw", "author": "/u/rivera_jose_m97", "updated": "2026-05-26T19:26:27+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tnla8w/i_went_from_making_500_in_a_single_day_to_losing/oo146xw/", "content": "That's crazy but in America you definitely should take that to court" }, { "id": "t1_oo41bwx", "author": "/u/goldy_bra_r", "updated": "2026-05-27T04:42:22+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tnla8w/i_went_from_making_500_in_a_single_day_to_losing/oo41bwx/", "content": "Which platform is this..what were you doing" }, { "id": "t1_oo4w9am", "author": "/u/urbfunsac", "updated": "2026-05-27T08:49:45+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tnla8w/i_went_from_making_500_in_a_single_day_to_losing/oo4w9am/", "content": "They f up, name the website so that others are aware of what a shitty website they are, if support can't bother to check it's messed up, you bring money to their business and they treat you like that." }, { "id": "t1_oo6ahgr", "author": "/u/EndOfWorldBoredom", "updated": "2026-05-27T14:00:21+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tnla8w/i_went_from_making_500_in_a_single_day_to_losing/oo6ahgr/", "content": "Everything is like this, in layers. The obvious layer is building your business on someone else's platform. But you build software on authoring tools that might get mothballed by the developer. One day Ai is cheap because of vc capital, the next there's usage limits and triple the cost. You build these things using ISPs that you hope keep serving you internet. You need electricity to do all of this.\n Honestly, if your life depends on your work, it's worth really understanding your dependencies and what you might do if any of them collapse." }, { "id": "t1_ooeagsg", "author": "/u/Infamous-Mousse-4181", "updated": "2026-05-28T16:09:00+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tnla8w/i_went_from_making_500_in_a_single_day_to_losing/ooeagsg/", "content": "And you didn't sue them??!!" }, { "id": "t1_ooglbxn", "author": "/u/lumsh", "updated": "2026-05-28T22:23:39+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tnla8w/i_went_from_making_500_in_a_single_day_to_losing/ooglbxn/", "content": "Well on a positive your September 11 wasn’t as bad as others" }, { "id": "t1_oosn276", "author": "/u/Alone_Hurry_7957", "updated": "2026-05-30T17:23:41+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tnla8w/i_went_from_making_500_in_a_single_day_to_losing/oosn276/", "content": "something similar happend to me aswell on fiverr" }, { "id": "t1_ooxithq", "author": "/u/robinx92", "updated": "2026-05-31T12:18:39+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tnla8w/i_went_from_making_500_in_a_single_day_to_losing/ooxithq/", "content": ""The lesson I learned is this: When you build your business on someone else's platform, you don’t own it" - Great conclusion! 😄 That's exactly how it is. That's why, whatever you do, do it at your own expense and risk. I know it's more difficult, but it's worth it." }, { "id": "t1_oozkyab", "author": "/u/jaimewarlock", "updated": "2026-05-31T18:30:48+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tnla8w/i_went_from_making_500_in_a_single_day_to_losing/oozkyab/", "content": "I learned that lesson when making articles on Hubpages and it wasn't even Hubpages fault. I was writing a good article every day and after about 3 months, I was pulling in $100/month from advertisement. So I am thinking, if I do this full time for a year, I will have around $400/month passive income and can go live overseas, then just keep adding articles.\n Then Google changed their SEO. Everyone's views dropped by about 99% and went down from there. The community there tried to find new ways to attract views. Even Hubpages tried stuff. Nothing worked. The site basically died.\n And this wasn't the first time I got burned using a platform. And it wouldn't be the last.\n Before the internet, I use to make video games and publish them through hobbyist magazines. But all those hobbiest magazines died off. I tried other marketing ideas, but they were useless. My dreams of making video games for a living died with them.\n After the Hubpages disaster, I was doing really well selling cryptocurrency on Ebay. My commission after fees was only 7%, but I still making around $2000/month. That lasted for about 3 months too before I received a permanent ban.\n It turns out the most successful self-employment during my life was simply panhandling. When I was still living in the USA, I could go out and make around $10/hour doing that." }, { "id": "t1_op6vwk3", "author": "/u/harymo-20", "updated": "2026-06-01T20:16:53+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tnla8w/i_went_from_making_500_in_a_single_day_to_losing/op6vwk3/", "content": "Never rely to something you don't control... I'm learning also in a hard way" }, { "id": "t1_onvjfft", "author": "/u/johnnykidlx", "updated": "2026-05-25T23:25:41+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tnla8w/i_went_from_making_500_in_a_single_day_to_losing/onvjfft/", "content": "That was like 7 years ago...\n Have you not recovered?" }, { "id": "t1_onw1oor", "author": "/u/LuxPerExperia", "updated": "2026-05-26T01:11:40+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tnla8w/i_went_from_making_500_in_a_single_day_to_losing/onw1oor/", "content": "https://giphy.com/gifs/QWqFRxIxUSfiFdg26r" }, { "id": "t1_onvd6wg", "author": "/u/AcademicMistake", "updated": "2026-05-25T22:49:49+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tnla8w/i_went_from_making_500_in_a_single_day_to_losing/onvd6wg/", "content": "Sorry but this is absolutely 100% common sense not to keep everything in 1 platform.\n It amazes me people actually have to make posts like this for others to be aware........." }, { "id": "t1_onw57ue", "author": "/u/WorkerSome7813", "updated": "2026-05-26T01:32:29+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tnla8w/i_went_from_making_500_in_a_single_day_to_losing/onw57ue/", "content": "You are totally right, it is common sense. But when you are new and things are going great, it is easy to forget until a bad bot shuts you down!" }, { "id": "t1_onw8e33", "author": "/u/CrypticZombies", "updated": "2026-05-26T01:51:05+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tnla8w/i_went_from_making_500_in_a_single_day_to_losing/onw8e33/", "content": "you actually thought u did?\n The lesson I learned is this: When you build your business on someone else's platform, you don’t own it.\n lmao" }, { "id": "t1_onwqq48", "author": "/u/Neelzar", "updated": "2026-05-26T03:43:24+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tnla8w/i_went_from_making_500_in_a_single_day_to_losing/onwqq48/", "content": "Why exactly did you get shut down? I don't get it." } ] }, { "source": "r/passive_income top month", "id": "t3_1t3gr0p", "title": "The ultimate side hustle & business to get wealthy!", "author": "/u/maddogyamad", "updated": "2026-05-04T12:49:35+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t3gr0p/the_ultimate_side_hustle_business_to_get_wealthy/", "content": "Okay you ready to strap yourself in for a read? This will be pretty raw and without the help of AI (which do people even do that anymore?), so you’ve been warned.\n First and foremost - if you’re reluctant to read this because it’s going to take time and is ‘too boring’. Well my fried, congrats! Maybe business isn’t for you. Funnily enough I’ve saved you a lot of time and heartache.\n I made a post in the subreddit /entrepreneur a few years back surrounding my success with e-commerce. It’s somewhere close to 300k views and have had a lot (and I mean a lot!) of people reach out to me for advice. So I’m kind of making this post as something to steer these people towards, as well as give someone else who wants some advice in starting a business or side hustle.\n There. Is. No. Get. Rich. Quick. Business.\n Not one. Maybe winning the lottery? But even then I’m sure the people who have won it just didn’t buy a single ticket and struck luck. I’m sure that took years of perseverance and, investing? (For the lack of a better word).\n But can you be successful? Wealthy? Rich? Free? F*ck yeah you can! You can achieve the same level success as anyone you want. Elon musk? Sure. The rich dude down the road with a BMW? Yep. What sets these people out from everyone else? Start up capital? Well not always. It’s grit and determination. That’s it. So if you really have that determination in you and are full of excitement, energy and can do attitude?! Where do we start?!? Where’s the money baby?\n This is the part you’re gonna hate. It’s in 12 months+ time. Thats the truth. Now let me be clear. Revenue and profit are two different things. You can make 6 figures in the first year in revenue but don’t earn a dime (oh I’ve been there).\n But before I lose you and you decide to go to a post that attracts you more with “make $130,000 a month in affiliate marketing” or “how I made $10,000 MRR with my micro SaaS and how you can too” just to be sold some shitty course. Let me just give you 5 simple tips and then send you on your merry way.\n\n- Change the way you think. Educate yourself. Let’s say instead of becoming an entrepreneur, you’re becoming a body builder. You don’t just go and start lifting weights. You understand terminologies, nutrition, body mass index, muscle groups, sleep, gym clothing and so on. You re-wire your brain into thinking. Sure you learn as you go but to reach your full potential, you need to understand input and output. Same as becoming an entrepreneur. You’re not expected to understand every thing. But start filling your brain. And the beauty? There’s never been more education available. Listen to Naval Ravikant, read Alex Hormozi books, go through reddit posts (like you’re doing now. Congrats). But don’t stop at one. Engulf yourself day in day out.\n\n- Not sure what to sell? What service to provide? Stop looking for a product. Look for a customer. All business is a solution to a problem. That’s it. Find the problem. You don’t even have to go to the extent of creating something entirely new. Improve something else. Speak to your family, friends, colleagues etc. Find pain points in everyday life and come up with a solution.\n\n- Market research. Think your idea is absolutely brilliant and going to make millions?! Then back it up with research. You could create a range of blue coloured thimbles for people with extra large thumbs who work in accounting. Why? Because that’s what you do and would love something like this. However, is there a need? In your country? Globally? Can it actually be manufactured for a price and sold for a percentage higher? Is there someone out there already doing this? From research alone you will find out a lot. Search in reddit, check facebook groups, ask around. Maybe you’ve gone too niche? Maybe create supplies for accountants with custom colouring? That’s niche without going ‘too niche’. Build off that.\n\n- Build a business plan. Much like my second point but expand. SWOT analysis. Marketing and sales strategy, goad and targets. Always strategic plan.\n\n- Something that I could have put higher, but find a\n skill and double down on it. Become so good at something that you can sell it for a premium price. Everything else? Outsource that puppy. Your time will be so valuable that by doing anything else will be a waste. Your hourly value will be exceptional that people will pay a good price for it.\n That’s it. Congrats. You’ve now got the steps for a successful business/side hustle. What? Did you think I was gonna say “AI automation” or “drop shipping plastic products from china”. Business is all about learning, trial and error and creating solutions. If you can’t understand these simple things, you’re not cut out. If being a successful entrepreneur was easy, everyone would do it. But most people give up. Why? Cause they CBF reading a super long post such as this. Or drafting a business plan. Or doing market research. Everyone wants everyone else to do it, give them the cheat code and get rich quick. And if you manage to find that, please send it my way! Haha.\n Look there’s obviously more. Could go into more detail on each topic. But that’s the gist. Time to break out of your shell. Get some self discipline and create a plan. Beauty with AI is that ChatGPT/Claude or whatever will help you. Start today. Don’t ask “what business can I make to get me to a million bucks”. Generate ideas and get them to critique it or help expand on it.\n If you are stuck, you can sign up for my $997… I’m joking. If you’re truly stuck, just say so. I’ll help where I can.\n Get out there and have a crack. Good luck!\n submitted by /u/maddogyamad\n [link] [comments]", "contentHtml": "

Okay you ready to strap yourself in for a read? This will be pretty raw and without the help of AI (which do people even do that anymore?), so you’ve been warned.

First and foremost - if you’re reluctant to read this because it’s going to take time and is ‘too boring’. Well my fried, congrats! Maybe business isn’t for you. Funnily enough I’ve saved you a lot of time and heartache.

I made a post in the subreddit /entrepreneur a few years back surrounding my success with e-commerce. It’s somewhere close to 300k views and have had a lot (and I mean a lot!) of people reach out to me for advice. So I’m kind of making this post as something to steer these people towards, as well as give someone else who wants some advice in starting a business or side hustle.

There. Is. No. Get. Rich. Quick. Business.
Not one. Maybe winning the lottery? But even then I’m sure the people who have won it just didn’t buy a single ticket and struck luck. I’m sure that took years of perseverance and, investing? (For the lack of a better word).

But can you be successful? Wealthy? Rich? Free? F*ck yeah you can! You can achieve the same level success as anyone you want. Elon musk? Sure. The rich dude down the road with a BMW? Yep. What sets these people out from everyone else? Start up capital? Well not always. It’s grit and determination. That’s it. So if you really have that determination in you and are full of excitement, energy and can do attitude?! Where do we start?!? Where’s the money baby?

This is the part you’re gonna hate. It’s in 12 months+ time. Thats the truth. Now let me be clear. Revenue and profit are two different things. You can make 6 figures in the first year in revenue but don’t earn a dime (oh I’ve been there).

But before I lose you and you decide to go to a post that attracts you more with “make $130,000 a month in affiliate marketing” or “how I made $10,000 MRR with my micro SaaS and how you can too” just to be sold some shitty course. Let me just give you 5 simple tips and then send you on your merry way.

  1. Change the way you think. Educate yourself. Let’s say instead of becoming an entrepreneur, you’re becoming a body builder. You don’t just go and start lifting weights. You understand terminologies, nutrition, body mass index, muscle groups, sleep, gym clothing and so on. You re-wire your brain into thinking. Sure you learn as you go but to reach your full potential, you need to understand input and output. Same as becoming an entrepreneur. You’re not expected to understand every thing. But start filling your brain. And the beauty? There’s never been more education available. Listen to Naval Ravikant, read Alex Hormozi books, go through reddit posts (like you’re doing now. Congrats). But don’t stop at one. Engulf yourself day in day out.

  2. Not sure what to sell? What service to provide? Stop looking for a product. Look for a customer. All business is a solution to a problem. That’s it. Find the problem. You don’t even have to go to the extent of creating something entirely new. Improve something else. Speak to your family, friends, colleagues etc. Find pain points in everyday life and come up with a solution.

  3. Market research. Think your idea is absolutely brilliant and going to make millions?! Then back it up with research. You could create a range of blue coloured thimbles for people with extra large thumbs who work in accounting. Why? Because that’s what you do and would love something like this. However, is there a need? In your country? Globally? Can it actually be manufactured for a price and sold for a percentage higher? Is there someone out there already doing this? From research alone you will find out a lot. Search in reddit, check facebook groups, ask around. Maybe you’ve gone too niche? Maybe create supplies for accountants with custom colouring? That’s niche without going ‘too niche’. Build off that.

  4. Build a business plan. Much like my second point but expand. SWOT analysis. Marketing and sales strategy, goad and targets. Always strategic plan.

  5. Something that I could have put higher, but find a
    skill and double down on it. Become so good at something that you can sell it for a premium price. Everything else? Outsource that puppy. Your time will be so valuable that by doing anything else will be a waste. Your hourly value will be exceptional that people will pay a good price for it.

That’s it. Congrats. You’ve now got the steps for a successful business/side hustle. What? Did you think I was gonna say “AI automation” or “drop shipping plastic products from china”. Business is all about learning, trial and error and creating solutions. If you can’t understand these simple things, you’re not cut out. If being a successful entrepreneur was easy, everyone would do it. But most people give up. Why? Cause they CBF reading a super long post such as this. Or drafting a business plan. Or doing market research. Everyone wants everyone else to do it, give them the cheat code and get rich quick. And if you manage to find that, please send it my way! Haha.

Look there’s obviously more. Could go into more detail on each topic. But that’s the gist. Time to break out of your shell. Get some self discipline and create a plan. Beauty with AI is that ChatGPT/Claude or whatever will help you. Start today. Don’t ask “what business can I make to get me to a million bucks”. Generate ideas and get them to critique it or help expand on it.

If you are stuck, you can sign up for my $997… I’m joking. If you’re truly stuck, just say so. I’ll help where I can.

Get out there and have a crack. Good luck!

submitted by /u/maddogyamad
[link] [comments]", "comments": [ { "id": "t1_ojuvet8", "author": "/u/AutoModerator", "updated": "2026-05-04T12:49:36+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t3gr0p/the_ultimate_side_hustle_business_to_get_wealthy/ojuvet8/", "content": "Check out the Community Highlights for current and future Mod Vetted opportunities and Newsletter Episodes.\n Please do due diligence on any crypto opportunity. A simple google search could save you a fortune.\n I am a bot, and this action was performed automatically. Please contact the moderators of this subreddit if you have any questions or concerns." }, { "id": "t1_ojuwjnk", "author": "", "updated": "2026-05-04T12:55:53+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t3gr0p/the_ultimate_side_hustle_business_to_get_wealthy/ojuwjnk/", "content": "[deleted]" }, { "id": "t1_ojux3q1", "author": "/u/maddogyamad", "updated": "2026-05-04T12:58:57+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t3gr0p/the_ultimate_side_hustle_business_to_get_wealthy/ojux3q1/", "content": "Yeah that’s it. Going to be a hard truth for a lot of people. Was definitely a hard pill for me for swallow but I had to find out the hard way. Anything worth pursuing in life takes time. It’s like wanting to have a successful marriage. You’re not gonna shack up with the first person you meet right? You’re gonna go on dates, potentially move in together, feel each other out (and up I guess haha) and hopefully engaged. Then married. Then it’ll take some work to make it work. Highs, lows and all that. Just like running a successful business ;)" }, { "id": "t1_ojwrzn1", "author": "/u/ElegantPower5344", "updated": "2026-05-04T18:07:56+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t3gr0p/the_ultimate_side_hustle_business_to_get_wealthy/ojwrzn1/", "content": "Couldn’t agree more with this. That marriage analogy is spot on - the “honeymoon phase” of a business idea is real, and the real work starts when the initial excitement fades. Too many people quit right there because they never planned for the boring middle.\n The part about rewiring your brain first is what finally clicked for me. Once I stopped chasing “what business makes millions” and started learning the fundamentals - market research, distribution, even just basic financial literacy - everything got clearer. Adding AI into the mix helped, but not as a shortcut: more like a research assistant that speeds up the learning curve, not replaces it." }, { "id": "t1_ojxybn2", "author": "/u/maddogyamad", "updated": "2026-05-04T21:21:54+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t3gr0p/the_ultimate_side_hustle_business_to_get_wealthy/ojxybn2/", "content": "That’s exactly right. People get exited when they hear the Shopify ‘cha-ching’, or when people like and share their first video or whatever it may be. But after the ribbon is cut and the opening ceremony fades, you’re stuck there trying to continue on with the momentum and that’s where you really get a taste of really. Especially in businesses who are ‘seasonal’. Which people go in without realising, or better yet, feel the pressure from competitors.\n Couldn’t agree more. It’s equally as important that you grow alongside the business. By educating yourself gives you so much leverage. It’ll help you make the right decisions down the track, learn from the wrong ones and ultimately save and make you money.\n Thanks for the feedback." }, { "id": "t1_ok7npl7", "author": "/u/Fulking", "updated": "2026-05-06T08:06:22+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t3gr0p/the_ultimate_side_hustle_business_to_get_wealthy/ok7npl7/", "content": "What were the most valuable books or videos you read and would advise me to read as someone who is wanting to build up knowledge and understanding of managing businesses and entrepeneurship?" }, { "id": "t1_okk1xd0", "author": "/u/maddogyamad", "updated": "2026-05-08T01:22:09+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t3gr0p/the_ultimate_side_hustle_business_to_get_wealthy/okk1xd0/", "content": "Great question!\n $100m offers - Alex Hormozi The Almanac of Naval Ravikant (or even listen to the podcast “how to get rich by naval”. It’s long but a lot of good in it) The lean start up by Eric Ries.\n There’s also some good ones to help change your mindset like atomic habits, the 4 hour work week and how to win friends and influence people.\n Can’t go wrong with anything I’ve listed." }, { "id": "t1_okmbo4r", "author": "/u/Fulking", "updated": "2026-05-08T11:34:21+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t3gr0p/the_ultimate_side_hustle_business_to_get_wealthy/okmbo4r/", "content": "Thanks!" }, { "id": "t1_ojw43kx", "author": "/u/glhfbbq", "updated": "2026-05-04T16:22:21+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t3gr0p/the_ultimate_side_hustle_business_to_get_wealthy/ojw43kx/", "content": "Let me also add one additional thing - START DOING IT. As soon as you have a rough idea of the business - START. Do something. Talk to potential customers. Make a "good enough" version and go for it. As good as planning and education and research is, there is no better, faster way to learn than by trying to do it. Iterate over time. There is no - "ah now that I've done plenty of research, I'm finally ready to launch a perfect business." No such thing. It's a constant loop of execution and learning and refining." }, { "id": "t1_ojxyz9t", "author": "/u/maddogyamad", "updated": "2026-05-04T21:25:04+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t3gr0p/the_ultimate_side_hustle_business_to_get_wealthy/ojxyz9t/", "content": "This. 100%. There is no better way learning by doing. The best part is knowing that you’ll fail. Not completely. Not as a founder. but in your failure you’ll learn things. Restructure things better. Overcome things. Which ultimately makes you resilient and better. But alongside that you’ll also have wins, find out how to do things quicker and/or cheaper. Gain insight into customers, feedback on how to improve your product or service.\n Having some skin in the game by actually executing and doing is better than standing around kicking stones waiting for the ‘right moment’. Best moment is always yesterday. Second best is right now!" }, { "id": "t1_oke2jqu", "author": "/u/ai-techguy001", "updated": "2026-05-07T04:55:45+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t3gr0p/the_ultimate_side_hustle_business_to_get_wealthy/oke2jqu/", "content": "yeah this is the one. i've seen more businesses die in the planning phase than in the market." }, { "id": "t1_ojvonco", "author": "/u/bloodbonesnbutter", "updated": "2026-05-04T15:12:46+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t3gr0p/the_ultimate_side_hustle_business_to_get_wealthy/ojvonco/", "content": "Wealthy people have inherent wealth from "old money". They dont side hustle..." }, { "id": "t1_ok8qz1x", "author": "/u/lricha04", "updated": "2026-05-06T12:52:56+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t3gr0p/the_ultimate_side_hustle_business_to_get_wealthy/ok8qz1x/", "content": "Yes they do. The CEO of my company started it while he was working full time for another company. He worked on it for years until he took a leap of faith and quit his day job. Our company is very successful now." }, { "id": "t1_ok8wfwf", "author": "/u/bloodbonesnbutter", "updated": "2026-05-06T13:20:47+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t3gr0p/the_ultimate_side_hustle_business_to_get_wealthy/ok8wfwf/", "content": "What did his dad do?" }, { "id": "t1_ojx7pz0", "author": "/u/Miamiconnectionexo", "updated": "2026-05-04T19:19:44+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t3gr0p/the_ultimate_side_hustle_business_to_get_wealthy/ojx7pz0/", "content": "honestly the people who actually get wealthy from side hustles are the ones who can sit through the boring parts. attention span is the real moat these days." }, { "id": "t1_ojy2kb9", "author": "/u/maddogyamad", "updated": "2026-05-04T21:42:41+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t3gr0p/the_ultimate_side_hustle_business_to_get_wealthy/ojy2kb9/", "content": "This 🙌🏽" }, { "id": "t1_okr0hkt", "author": "/u/The--Turnip", "updated": "2026-05-09T01:47:29+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t3gr0p/the_ultimate_side_hustle_business_to_get_wealthy/okr0hkt/", "content": "Gen Z: Oh sheit" }, { "id": "t1_ojuzxhk", "author": "/u/Spare-Ad-6934", "updated": "2026-05-04T13:13:57+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t3gr0p/the_ultimate_side_hustle_business_to_get_wealthy/ojuzxhk/", "content": "the bodybuilder analogy is the best framing ive seen for this most people want the workout plan before they understand what a rep is the point about looking for a customer not a product is where most first timers go wrong too they fall in love with an idea instead of a problem and spend months building something nobody asked for solid post" }, { "id": "t1_ojv0xfv", "author": "/u/maddogyamad", "updated": "2026-05-04T13:19:16+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t3gr0p/the_ultimate_side_hustle_business_to_get_wealthy/ojv0xfv/", "content": "Thanks for your feedback! I think educating yourself on the journey is the biggest one. Not just learning fancy words and abbreviations like LTV, CPA, churn etc. But mainly the lows and struggled entrepreneurs go through and learning off others experiences to help you overcome these and not lose money (and sleep!).\n So many people ask what to sell, not whom to sell to. That’s a big one. And yep, nothing worse than getting stuck on an idea but it’s already saturated or no need for it.\n Thanks again for the feedback. And thanks for taking the time to read a super long post haha." }, { "id": "t1_ojwqykh", "author": "/u/ElegantPower5344", "updated": "2026-05-04T18:03:16+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t3gr0p/the_ultimate_side_hustle_business_to_get_wealthy/ojwqykh/", "content": "This is one of the most grounded “start here” posts I’ve seen in a while. The point about finding a problem first instead of a product is so underrated.\n I write a lot about using AI as a practical lever for side hustles and businesses — not magic buttons, but real tools that save time or boost income (think automating tedious parts, repurposing content, that sort of thing). If anyone reading this wants to explore the AI side without the guru hype, my profile has a link to a small community I run exactly for that. No fluff, just honest breakdowns and tools that actually work.\n Good luck to everyone — and yeah, the 12+ months part is painfully true." }, { "id": "t1_ojxz4ym", "author": "/u/maddogyamad", "updated": "2026-05-04T21:25:51+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t3gr0p/the_ultimate_side_hustle_business_to_get_wealthy/ojxz4ym/", "content": "Cheers. I’ll check it out." }, { "id": "t1_ojv2ge4", "author": "/u/Tsulaiman", "updated": "2026-05-04T13:27:13+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t3gr0p/the_ultimate_side_hustle_business_to_get_wealthy/ojv2ge4/", "content": "How do you deal with self-doubt and over analyzing the product/service viability? I talked to a few friends and got mixed reactions. It killed my motivation" }, { "id": "t1_ojv4svf", "author": "/u/maddogyamad", "updated": "2026-05-04T13:39:20+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t3gr0p/the_ultimate_side_hustle_business_to_get_wealthy/ojv4svf/", "content": "Self-doubt and overthinking usually come from trying to validate an idea in your head instead of in the real world. Talking to friends can actually make it worse because you’ll get mixed opinions, and most of them aren’t your target customer anyway. The only thing that really matters is whether someone who actually has the problem is willing to pay for a solution. A better approach is to treat it like a test. Give yourself a set period of time, talk to real potential customers, and try to sell it before it’s perfect. That feedback is worth far more than opinions. Clarity comes from action, not thinking, and once you get real responses, the doubt starts to fade because you’re working with proof instead of guesses." }, { "id": "t1_ojwkg3g", "author": "/u/Altruistic-Try5388", "updated": "2026-05-04T17:34:59+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t3gr0p/the_ultimate_side_hustle_business_to_get_wealthy/ojwkg3g/", "content": "❤️❤️❤️" }, { "id": "t1_ojwxcwk", "author": "", "updated": "2026-05-04T18:32:11+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t3gr0p/the_ultimate_side_hustle_business_to_get_wealthy/ojwxcwk/", "content": "[deleted]" }, { "id": "t1_ojy0v52", "author": "/u/maddogyamad", "updated": "2026-05-04T21:34:20+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t3gr0p/the_ultimate_side_hustle_business_to_get_wealthy/ojy0v52/", "content": "Sure! Why not?! Start planning it out!" }, { "id": "t1_ojxqad7", "author": "/u/andrebuilds", "updated": "2026-05-04T20:44:34+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t3gr0p/the_ultimate_side_hustle_business_to_get_wealthy/ojxqad7/", "content": "The bodybuilder analogy for education is the best framing I have seen for this. Most people want to skip to lifting without understanding why the program works. And the "look for a customer not a product" point is the one that took me the longest to actually internalize, not just read and nod at. The double down on one skill and outsource everything else part is where most solo founders break, myself included. You end up doing everything because you think you cannot afford to outsource and then you become the bottleneck for everything. Appreciate the no-course ending, that alone makes this more credible than 90% of posts in this sub." }, { "id": "t1_ojxxihe", "author": "/u/maddogyamad", "updated": "2026-05-04T21:17:58+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t3gr0p/the_ultimate_side_hustle_business_to_get_wealthy/ojxxihe/", "content": "Thank you. Appreciate the kind feedback! Sounds like you’ve got it all worked out! 100% agree with the bottleneck issue." }, { "id": "t1_onqhm6d", "author": "/u/P16092", "updated": "2026-05-25T05:34:15+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t3gr0p/the_ultimate_side_hustle_business_to_get_wealthy/onqhm6d/", "content": "thanku for the feedback man Appreciated." }, { "id": "t1_ojzu0f2", "author": "/u/Scared_Night_8846", "updated": "2026-05-05T03:40:12+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t3gr0p/the_ultimate_side_hustle_business_to_get_wealthy/ojzu0f2/", "content": "Great honest post. There are a lot of great books to read but keeping on the theme of raw and honest, probably one of the best I've read and always recommend is The Sweaty Startup by Nick Huber. He blows a lot of the glossy get rich stuff out of the water. He's all about starting local and looking at what's working and can work better." }, { "id": "t1_ok23k5q", "author": "/u/maddogyamad", "updated": "2026-05-05T13:45:36+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t3gr0p/the_ultimate_side_hustle_business_to_get_wealthy/ok23k5q/", "content": "Thanks. I’ll check it out!" }, { "id": "t1_ok19ie0", "author": "/u/Jami_Martin", "updated": "2026-05-05T10:50:43+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t3gr0p/the_ultimate_side_hustle_business_to_get_wealthy/ok19ie0/", "content": ""look for a customer not a product" is the one that actually changes how you think. Most people do it backwards and wonder why nobody buys." }, { "id": "t1_ok23rji", "author": "/u/maddogyamad", "updated": "2026-05-05T13:46:37+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t3gr0p/the_ultimate_side_hustle_business_to_get_wealthy/ok23rji/", "content": "That’s it. You’ll find by finding the customer you’ll actually think of more than a single product!" }, { "id": "t1_ok1glml", "author": "/u/DueEffective3503", "updated": "2026-05-05T11:39:34+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t3gr0p/the_ultimate_side_hustle_business_to_get_wealthy/ok1glml/", "content": "Hi! Thank you for posting this I'm 16 and I want to have my own business when I'm old enough (or have enough knowledge and capital to start) so this is my goal eventually, and I'm okay with being employed for years first but I'm trying to figure out something to do while I'm still in school that would either give me a small extra income or help me learn something/ put something on my college applications I LOVE writing and I have taken extracurriculars as a volunteer content writer in about 2-3 youth led organizations( + recently a program about business and AI's integration) and I was wondering if I could maybe start to build for that to be a potential income source after a year or so, but I don't know if people would trust someone with basically no degree and no real experience, I'm willing to put old work and make new ones for portfolio if needed and I know it takes a lot to get your first customer and I'm also willing to do my best and wait, I just don't know if it's somethimg I'm capable of with such little experience. I want to be (partially for now) financially independent asap, and thank you again🫶" }, { "id": "t1_ok1hofn", "author": "/u/maddogyamad", "updated": "2026-05-05T11:46:24+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t3gr0p/the_ultimate_side_hustle_business_to_get_wealthy/ok1hofn/", "content": "In all honesty, I’ve spoken to a lot of people who want to get into entrepreneurship and start a business. A lot of those people are much older than you, but I can tell you openly and honestly that you have such a better mindset than half of those people. Everything you said there shows that you’re patient, committed, willing to educate yourself and grow into an entrepreneur. I have no doubt in my mind that you’ll succeed if you stick at it! Maybe one day you’ll be my boss! Haha" }, { "id": "t1_okevt63", "author": "/u/TiredOfYourBss", "updated": "2026-05-07T09:06:54+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t3gr0p/the_ultimate_side_hustle_business_to_get_wealthy/okevt63/", "content": "Guys it's just as easy as making a swot analysis.... 99% of the products that make it come from decent marketing. That is the hardest part full stop. Building a customer base and growing it. Especially online holy shit it is hard. Do yourself a favour and learn marketing or partner with a marketing expert before you even consider building the product." }, { "id": "t1_okjw6qs", "author": "/u/lingya22", "updated": "2026-05-08T00:45:11+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t3gr0p/the_ultimate_side_hustle_business_to_get_wealthy/okjw6qs/", "content": "cool,men,your suggetion is useful" }, { "id": "t1_oknk00z", "author": "/u/Mission-Session-5633", "updated": "2026-05-08T15:16:08+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t3gr0p/the_ultimate_side_hustle_business_to_get_wealthy/oknk00z/", "content": "Great post, There’s no get-rich-quick route. Success takes grit, patience, and a year (or more) before real profit shows up. Revenue isn’t the same as profit.\n Focus on execution, not perfect ideas. Build systems, track your money, and celebrate small wins. Keep improving, stay persistent, and remember energy and determination beat luck every time." }, { "id": "t1_okoly37", "author": "/u/maddogyamad", "updated": "2026-05-08T18:04:13+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t3gr0p/the_ultimate_side_hustle_business_to_get_wealthy/okoly37/", "content": "Exactly! I might make out it sounds like a chore and unenjoyable. Which, certainly will be at times. But you’ll love it. Learn so much a long the way and when you first get that bit of profit, nothing more rewarding. Beats working for a boss too haha" }, { "id": "t1_oknr6of", "author": "", "updated": "2026-05-08T15:47:28+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t3gr0p/the_ultimate_side_hustle_business_to_get_wealthy/oknr6of/", "content": "[deleted]" }, { "id": "t1_okoljdo", "author": "/u/maddogyamad", "updated": "2026-05-08T18:02:20+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t3gr0p/the_ultimate_side_hustle_business_to_get_wealthy/okoljdo/", "content": "Yep very solid concept people need to learn early on" }, { "id": "t1_ojvffwz", "author": "", "updated": "2026-05-04T14:30:49+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t3gr0p/the_ultimate_side_hustle_business_to_get_wealthy/ojvffwz/", "content": "[deleted]" }, { "id": "t1_ojvghez", "author": "/u/maddogyamad", "updated": "2026-05-04T14:35:42+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t3gr0p/the_ultimate_side_hustle_business_to_get_wealthy/ojvghez/", "content": "Yeah those little things you think would sort themselves out don’t actually sort themselves out. You have to! Haha. But yeah a lot of grinding and working hard for nothing in return feels demoralising at times. But the more you put in the more you’ll eventually get out. Wish you all the best with it and excited to hear your success story in time!" }, { "id": "t1_ojvtepi", "author": "/u/Angryw2", "updated": "2026-05-04T15:34:20+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t3gr0p/the_ultimate_side_hustle_business_to_get_wealthy/ojvtepi/", "content": "Appreciate the honest write-up, it's been my issue with this entire sub deluding ppl into believing they could make thousands overnight. I have an idea for a product I'm very confident in, but my struggle is when it comes to market research cause there's plenty of research papers detailing the statistics of medication adherence worldwide, but for me to get feedback on my idea id have to talk to doctors and hospital staff which is kinda impossible as a 21 year old student.\n It's a physical product I have in mind, one that I'd have to design a PCB for and get screens + 3d prints, so it's not very scalable either unless I somehow get in touch with clinics and try starting small. But when you start small wouldn't you be afraid of your product getting cheaper knockoffs, and overall who would take an a 3rd year engineering student seriously anyways.\n Regardless though thanks for the post, it's what I've been needing to hear for awhile now. I'm likely delusional but it's a good pastime I guess.\n EDIT: fyi my product would ideally aimed commercially towards hospitals and clinics, hence the issue with it needing to have a good background for it to be taken seriously." }, { "id": "t1_ojy0gh9", "author": "/u/maddogyamad", "updated": "2026-05-04T21:32:20+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t3gr0p/the_ultimate_side_hustle_business_to_get_wealthy/ojy0gh9/", "content": "You’re welcome.\n The first thing I noticed you say “is kinda impossible”. Well it’s not is it? Kinda impossible means that it’s hard. That you have to get out of your comfort zone and feel you’ll be undermined because of your age.\n Sounds like you’ve already answered your own question. What you need to do is generate feedback from doctors and medical professionals. Approach them and ask for a minute of their time. Reach out to them on LinkedIn, find Telehealth doctors, whatever it may be. Give them a very simple pitch on the idea and really listen into what they have to say. Don’t fight back critiscm but write it down.\n Everyone is worried about people taking their idea and run with it. But it isn’t as simple as that. You’ve already put in the ground work and at stage 3 or 4 when they’ll have to start at 1. As long as you keep grinding it out, you’ll be ahead of so many. Worst case scenario, you have a really good product and a big investment firm or company wants to buy you out. Then you’ve got options!\n Stop this “3rd year student, 21 year old, kinda impossible” attitude. Greater things have been accomplished by people much younger.\n Good luck!" }, { "id": "t1_ojwh0jg", "author": "/u/Ready-Database8692", "updated": "2026-05-04T17:19:55+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t3gr0p/the_ultimate_side_hustle_business_to_get_wealthy/ojwh0jg/", "content": "I also did write about how you won’t make $2000 a month that every guru deletes from their comments, got something like 400k views that also speaks volumes but your post was also funny 🤣 especially the end where you sign up for my….. 🤣🤣🤣" }, { "id": "t1_ojy0nj8", "author": "/u/maddogyamad", "updated": "2026-05-04T21:33:18+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t3gr0p/the_ultimate_side_hustle_business_to_get_wealthy/ojy0nj8/", "content": "Hahaha good old gurus. Nothing but snake oil salesmen. Glad you got a good laugh. Just keeping it real 😝" }, { "id": "t1_ojwm0mq", "author": "/u/Significant_Hope_757", "updated": "2026-05-04T17:41:52+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t3gr0p/the_ultimate_side_hustle_business_to_get_wealthy/ojwm0mq/", "content": "This has some really great advice and I appreciate that you took the time to put all that and I hope people will take the time to read it because there was some really great advice in it" }, { "id": "t1_ojy0plk", "author": "/u/maddogyamad", "updated": "2026-05-04T21:33:35+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t3gr0p/the_ultimate_side_hustle_business_to_get_wealthy/ojy0plk/", "content": "Thank you very much! Hope it helps!" }, { "id": "t1_ojwwmow", "author": "/u/Adonathiel88", "updated": "2026-05-04T18:28:53+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t3gr0p/the_ultimate_side_hustle_business_to_get_wealthy/ojwwmow/", "content": "You got me good with the sign for 900 bucks hahah" }, { "id": "t1_ojy0sex", "author": "/u/maddogyamad", "updated": "2026-05-04T21:33:57+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t3gr0p/the_ultimate_side_hustle_business_to_get_wealthy/ojy0sex/", "content": "Hahahaha 😉" }, { "id": "t1_ojx62k7", "author": "/u/Hot_Shirt_4990", "updated": "2026-05-04T19:12:04+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t3gr0p/the_ultimate_side_hustle_business_to_get_wealthy/ojx62k7/", "content": "this is solid and honestly most people won’t like it because it’s not what they want to hear\n only thing I’d add is that it’s not just grit, it’s direction. I’ve seen people grind for years and get nowhere because they’re solving the wrong problem or building something no one actually needs\n the “find a customer not a product” part is probably the most important thing here. once I started talking to users before building anything, everything got easier. less guessing, less wasted time\n the 12 month timeline is also pretty real. people massively underestimate how long it takes to go from idea to something that actually makes money" }, { "id": "t1_ojy1sdw", "author": "/u/maddogyamad", "updated": "2026-05-04T21:38:51+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t3gr0p/the_ultimate_side_hustle_business_to_get_wealthy/ojy1sdw/", "content": "Thanks! Yeah a tough pill to swallow for most.\n Yeah most definitely. I guess that’s where the market research comes in. You need to be sure that your product or service is going to be profitable, a demand and a way that you can get this in front of their eyes.\n Yeah you’ll actually find that once you find the customer you’ll actually find more than one product (of course if you’re a product based business) which will lead then to different ranges, bundles and upsells and more.\n Things take time. But if you look back to where you were say 12 months ago. If you started then and there, by now you’d be closer to making profit. So ultimately it’s all about doing the boring stuff to cross all your t’s and dot all your i’s, and then just getting in and having a go." }, { "id": "t1_ojx6jj4", "author": "/u/WaNaBeEntrepreneur", "updated": "2026-05-04T19:14:16+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t3gr0p/the_ultimate_side_hustle_business_to_get_wealthy/ojx6jj4/", "content": "How do I perform market research and make a business plan? It's surprisingly hard to find decent resources on the internet." }, { "id": "t1_ojy2h41", "author": "/u/maddogyamad", "updated": "2026-05-04T21:42:14+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t3gr0p/the_ultimate_side_hustle_business_to_get_wealthy/ojy2h41/", "content": "It couldn’t be more easier than find resources out there. You just need to look in the right places or use the right keywords. Can even as AI these days. Once you find your idea customer and market, search for Facebook groups of these people or subreddits. Example, you want to sell baby clothes. Join Facebook groups of new mothers, parents etc. You’ll be surprised how many there are. Then don’t go in too salesy, just write the problem you see and then say something like “don’t you think having something like X would be great to help with X”. Your feedback you get is your early research. As for a business plan, google business plan template.\n as easy as that." }, { "id": "t1_ojxiswu", "author": "/u/RyqzMaster", "updated": "2026-05-04T20:10:46+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t3gr0p/the_ultimate_side_hustle_business_to_get_wealthy/ojxiswu/", "content": "You're saying that we have to have the correct mindset/approach, but what do we do with that after? I've already "trialed and errored" with things like high-ticket dropshipping, POD, stock trading. And i feel like the experience with those ventures have given me tons of insight and learning, but no profit.\n To use the bodybuilding example, your muscles aren't going to get bigger unless you start increasing the amount weight you're lifting. And I feel like i'm stuck doing pushups and other body-weight exercises, but haven't found the idea of going to the gym to use heavier equipment" }, { "id": "t1_ojy3q51", "author": "/u/maddogyamad", "updated": "2026-05-04T21:48:24+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t3gr0p/the_ultimate_side_hustle_business_to_get_wealthy/ojy3q51/", "content": "Yeah look these markets are very hard to get into. There’s a lot of gurus out there claiming they’ve made their riches but ultimately they’re making their riches from selling you their knowledge. Especially dropshipping. They speak about finding a niche when you’re actually their niche. Ones who really have found to make consistent money and still are, they’re the ones who aren’t telling people. Why would they create more competition?\n Like you said, seems like you’ve got a lot of insight and learning. You just need to then use that. Maybe the insight and learning you’ve gotten is the wrong type? Or maybe it’s more down the track rather than starting out? Using the body builder analogy, doing pushups builds muscle the same way as doing bench press. Sure bench press is more but you’ll get to a point where you need to move on. That point is in the forms of $2000 - $10,000 a month. If you’re not at that point, then moving onto the gym equipment isn’t there yet. Don’t be so worried about looking at the body builders around you. Focus on what you’re doing. Happy to explore this further." }, { "id": "t1_ojz1m5b", "author": "/u/RyqzMaster", "updated": "2026-05-05T00:54:11+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t3gr0p/the_ultimate_side_hustle_business_to_get_wealthy/ojz1m5b/", "content": "I feel i already have the mindset and knowledge, and i'm actually grateful for trying and failing in those markets because I was able to "feel" entrepreneurship as a whole. My main point im trying to get at though is that I haven't found where/what to devote that education to.\n You said build a business plan, right? and my response is, in what niche / line of business? AI products, digital products, exercise PDFs? The options are endless\n Your post is great btw. There's so much information going around these days with social media and gurus that everyone forgets that having that fundamental mindset is what will get you success" }, { "id": "t1_ojz317x", "author": "/u/maddogyamad", "updated": "2026-05-05T01:02:07+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t3gr0p/the_ultimate_side_hustle_business_to_get_wealthy/ojz317x/", "content": "Yeah I’m sure you would have gotten a lot of good information and knowledge which is transferable into so many different business prospects.\n That’s the million dollar question. I think you might be getting caught up in the latest trends. Dropshipping, AI automation, exercise PDFs etc. all have the potential to make money and have in the past. But don’t just jump into one of those cause a dude in front of a microphone at his computer is trying to sell you why. Or how he’s made money. It all comes down to what problem you’re trying to solve and what skill set and knowledge you have or willing to obtain.\n Thanks for the feedback! Really appreciate it. Sounds like you’re hungry to get involved and have already dipped your toes. Just don’t get caught up on the hype and worry of what ‘type’ of market to get into. Also there’s no right or wrong answer and you’re not stuck in one forever." }, { "id": "t1_ojxx03r", "author": "/u/S84K", "updated": "2026-05-04T21:15:30+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t3gr0p/the_ultimate_side_hustle_business_to_get_wealthy/ojxx03r/", "content": "So you're saying you got rich by doing dropshipping?" }, { "id": "t1_ojy4tm7", "author": "/u/maddogyamad", "updated": "2026-05-04T21:53:58+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t3gr0p/the_ultimate_side_hustle_business_to_get_wealthy/ojy4tm7/", "content": "Never drop shipped in my life." }, { "id": "t1_ojy71mg", "author": "/u/S84K", "updated": "2026-05-04T22:05:27+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t3gr0p/the_ultimate_side_hustle_business_to_get_wealthy/ojy71mg/", "content": "Oh, I see. I thought I saw ecommerce somewhere in the paragraph. Thanks for replying." }, { "id": "t1_ojy7eeu", "author": "/u/maddogyamad", "updated": "2026-05-04T22:07:18+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t3gr0p/the_ultimate_side_hustle_business_to_get_wealthy/ojy7eeu/", "content": "E-commerce isn’t just limited to drop shipping. I have created, founded, still managing and sold multiple e-commerce stores, but haven’t once dropshipped.\n You’re welcome. All the best with your journey!" }, { "id": "t1_ojy7ly7", "author": "/u/S84K", "updated": "2026-05-04T22:08:24+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t3gr0p/the_ultimate_side_hustle_business_to_get_wealthy/ojy7ly7/", "content": "Got it. Thanks!" }, { "id": "t1_ojy05jh", "author": "/u/NoEstablishment1221", "updated": "2026-05-04T21:30:50+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t3gr0p/the_ultimate_side_hustle_business_to_get_wealthy/ojy05jh/", "content": "Why is this doing so well? It doesn’t actually provide any advice. Just hype man with no substance." }, { "id": "t1_ojy4p07", "author": "/u/maddogyamad", "updated": "2026-05-04T21:53:18+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t3gr0p/the_ultimate_side_hustle_business_to_get_wealthy/ojy4p07/", "content": "How doesn’t it? Care to elaborate?" }, { "id": "t1_ojy8wse", "author": "/u/NoEstablishment1221", "updated": "2026-05-04T22:15:18+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t3gr0p/the_ultimate_side_hustle_business_to_get_wealthy/ojy8wse/", "content": "Would you elaborate on your passive income strategy specifically? These are platitudes without much substance. Specifically, what is the passive income? We have 100s of posts about “digital products,” “surveys,” and “AI videos to a niche market,” anything you have beyond that?" }, { "id": "t1_ojyau0p", "author": "/u/maddogyamad", "updated": "2026-05-04T22:25:36+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t3gr0p/the_ultimate_side_hustle_business_to_get_wealthy/ojyau0p/", "content": "I think the reason this post is “doing so well” as you put it, is because I’m not selling people up the river on a whim and fake dream. Im not showcasing the problem and solution in the hopes I generate leads for a course sale. Im also not selling a specific industry or “AI automation is where you’re going to make a million dollars in 12 months” or “this is exactly how I made my first million bucks, this is what you need to do”. It’s 5 simple hard truths that if you can’t wrap your head around, why would you even bother trying.\n Why would I elaborate on my specific strategy? To get to my strategy you need to first get your head wrapped around those 5 things. I’m not selling someone how I made my millions." }, { "id": "t1_ojz9tj4", "author": "/u/NoEstablishment1221", "updated": "2026-05-05T01:40:02+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t3gr0p/the_ultimate_side_hustle_business_to_get_wealthy/ojz9tj4/", "content": "You’re literally saying nothing. Millions… sure." }, { "id": "t1_ojza6ej", "author": "/u/maddogyamad", "updated": "2026-05-05T01:42:04+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t3gr0p/the_ultimate_side_hustle_business_to_get_wealthy/ojza6ej/", "content": "What do you want me to say? To give you last weeks Lottery ticket numbers in the hopes they’ll work again? Besides yourself, a lot of people seem to have gotten some benefit from this post. I ask for nothing in return. So you can pick up your bottom lip and go else where." }, { "id": "t1_ojzeg91", "author": "/u/NoEstablishment1221", "updated": "2026-05-05T02:05:53+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t3gr0p/the_ultimate_side_hustle_business_to_get_wealthy/ojzeg91/", "content": "You sell food online? Millions? Hmmmm…." }, { "id": "t1_ojyopj4", "author": "/u/Drumroll-PH", "updated": "2026-05-04T23:41:42+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t3gr0p/the_ultimate_side_hustle_business_to_get_wealthy/ojyopj4/", "content": "The main takeaway is that there’s no real shortcut to building a business, only solving real problems consistently over time. Most successful side hustles come from identifying customer pain points, validating demand, and executing repeatedly until something works. Tools like AI can speed things up, but they don’t replace fundamentals like discipline and market need." }, { "id": "t1_ojyr2x3", "author": "/u/maddogyamad", "updated": "2026-05-04T23:54:51+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t3gr0p/the_ultimate_side_hustle_business_to_get_wealthy/ojyr2x3/", "content": "Yep exactly. Worded much nicely than the long rant I went into haha. But yeah things take time and effort. That’s the bottom line. People want everyone now with much little effort and get a rude shock when that isn’t the case." }, { "id": "t1_ok0l9ra", "author": "/u/jay_0804", "updated": "2026-05-05T07:15:44+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t3gr0p/the_ultimate_side_hustle_business_to_get_wealthy/ok0l9ra/", "content": "lowkey this is one of the more honest posts on here\n everyone wants the “5k/month in 30 days” thing but what you said about 12+ months is way closer to reality. most of my income now came from stuff I started a year ago that barely paid at the time\n the “find a customer not a product” part is the real cheat code. I wasted months trying random ideas until I just picked a problem I kept seeing and built around that\n also +1 on skills. once I got decent at one thing (content + outreach), everything got easier. you can literally sell the same skill in 5 different ways\n only thing I’d add is speed matters too. don’t overplan forever. I usually outline stuff in Notion, use tools like Runable to turn it into something presentable fast, and just put it out. messy but it works\n not easy, but yeah this is pretty much how it goes" }, { "id": "t1_ok0mfyl", "author": "/u/maddogyamad", "updated": "2026-05-05T07:26:33+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t3gr0p/the_ultimate_side_hustle_business_to_get_wealthy/ok0mfyl/", "content": "Thanks for the feedback!\n Yeah I agree on the speed aspect, but isn’t something I added in cause I don’t want people to think I’m contradicting myself by saying “take the time to do your research” and then add “but be quick!”. My first online business I didn’t go to market for like 6 - 12 months. But that was the time I needed to ensure all the bottlenecks at the time were sorted (legislation, manufacturing etc). I wouldn’t necessarily say be fast, but be proactive and efficient with your time." }, { "id": "t1_ok0uwxx", "author": "/u/MaleficentLobster482", "updated": "2026-05-05T08:46:13+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t3gr0p/the_ultimate_side_hustle_business_to_get_wealthy/ok0uwxx/", "content": "I'm applying this mentality to my investment business! Thanks for all of this!" }, { "id": "t1_ok0visr", "author": "/u/maddogyamad", "updated": "2026-05-05T08:51:49+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t3gr0p/the_ultimate_side_hustle_business_to_get_wealthy/ok0visr/", "content": "More than welcome! Hope it all works out for you!" }, { "id": "t1_ok1sss8", "author": "/u/SwissButterfly", "updated": "2026-05-05T12:50:55+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t3gr0p/the_ultimate_side_hustle_business_to_get_wealthy/ok1sss8/", "content": "Thank you! This is so helpful, especially for those of us who are feeling stuck and need a pragmatic approach to getting out of the corporate world and finally creating what they've been dreaming of for years." }, { "id": "t1_ok227ze", "author": "/u/maddogyamad", "updated": "2026-05-05T13:38:58+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t3gr0p/the_ultimate_side_hustle_business_to_get_wealthy/ok227ze/", "content": "You’re welcome. I’m glad it’s helped yourself and others 🙂" }, { "id": "t1_ok4djvg", "author": "/u/impostalobsta1", "updated": "2026-05-05T19:58:44+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t3gr0p/the_ultimate_side_hustle_business_to_get_wealthy/ok4djvg/", "content": "Great read actually 👍 well done" }, { "id": "t1_ok4xd82", "author": "/u/maddogyamad", "updated": "2026-05-05T21:30:08+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t3gr0p/the_ultimate_side_hustle_business_to_get_wealthy/ok4xd82/", "content": "Thank you 🙏" }, { "id": "t1_ok7gk8b", "author": "/u/Longjumping_Cap_7960", "updated": "2026-05-06T07:02:48+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t3gr0p/the_ultimate_side_hustle_business_to_get_wealthy/ok7gk8b/", "content": "There isn't an “ultimate” side hustle. The closest thing is picking one boring, proven model and sticking with it long enough to get distribution (audience, SEO, email list, outbound, whatever)." }, { "id": "t1_ok7gnw9", "author": "/u/maddogyamad", "updated": "2026-05-06T07:03:42+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t3gr0p/the_ultimate_side_hustle_business_to_get_wealthy/ok7gnw9/", "content": "Ya… I know. The title is just an ironic click bait headline. Read the post content and you’ll get it" }, { "id": "t1_ok7waxd", "author": "/u/UniversalSparrow", "updated": "2026-05-06T09:24:30+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t3gr0p/the_ultimate_side_hustle_business_to_get_wealthy/ok7waxd/", "content": "I needed to hear this today. Thank you!" }, { "id": "t1_ok7yol8", "author": "/u/maddogyamad", "updated": "2026-05-06T09:45:17+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t3gr0p/the_ultimate_side_hustle_business_to_get_wealthy/ok7yol8/", "content": "You’re more than welcome. Hope it’s helped in more ways than one 🙂" }, { "id": "t1_ok883je", "author": "/u/Happy_Cactus123", "updated": "2026-05-06T10:58:57+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t3gr0p/the_ultimate_side_hustle_business_to_get_wealthy/ok883je/", "content": "Thanks for sharing your wisdom and saying it as it is. Entrepreneurship is indeed all about continuous learning, and determination to keep going even after setbacks." }, { "id": "t1_ok8no8q", "author": "/u/maddogyamad", "updated": "2026-05-06T12:35:00+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t3gr0p/the_ultimate_side_hustle_business_to_get_wealthy/ok8no8q/", "content": "You’re welcome. That’s absolutely right.\n If someone needs you to think of a product or service for them, imagine what else they’ll need you to think for? Already strike 1 on the very first concept haha." }, { "id": "t1_oka559i", "author": "/u/Kizoyo", "updated": "2026-05-06T16:44:18+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t3gr0p/the_ultimate_side_hustle_business_to_get_wealthy/oka559i/", "content": "This post is HIGH value" }, { "id": "t1_okbxu7d", "author": "/u/maddogyamad", "updated": "2026-05-06T21:29:33+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t3gr0p/the_ultimate_side_hustle_business_to_get_wealthy/okbxu7d/", "content": "Thank you 🙏" }, { "id": "t1_okdunox", "author": "/u/HourEstablishment672", "updated": "2026-05-07T03:58:48+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t3gr0p/the_ultimate_side_hustle_business_to_get_wealthy/okdunox/", "content": "Thank you for the boost! I needed it!!! :)" }, { "id": "t1_okdvdvc", "author": "/u/maddogyamad", "updated": "2026-05-07T04:03:50+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t3gr0p/the_ultimate_side_hustle_business_to_get_wealthy/okdvdvc/", "content": "You’re welcome! All the best!" }, { "id": "t1_okf8x86", "author": "/u/Patsch86", "updated": "2026-05-07T10:53:20+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t3gr0p/the_ultimate_side_hustle_business_to_get_wealthy/okf8x86/", "content": "Where’s the TLDR? 🤡" }, { "id": "t1_okf8y3x", "author": "/u/Patsch86", "updated": "2026-05-07T10:53:30+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t3gr0p/the_ultimate_side_hustle_business_to_get_wealthy/okf8y3x/", "content": "Where’s the TLDR? 🤡" }, { "id": "t1_okf99kt", "author": "/u/maddogyamad", "updated": "2026-05-07T10:55:43+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t3gr0p/the_ultimate_side_hustle_business_to_get_wealthy/okf99kt/", "content": "TLDR ; you ain’t gonna make a dime overnight. Do your homework.\n The end." }, { "id": "t1_okfd6ib", "author": "/u/Patsch86", "updated": "2026-05-07T11:22:10+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t3gr0p/the_ultimate_side_hustle_business_to_get_wealthy/okfd6ib/", "content": "Mind blowing" }, { "id": "t1_okfd9pj", "author": "/u/maddogyamad", "updated": "2026-05-07T11:22:45+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t3gr0p/the_ultimate_side_hustle_business_to_get_wealthy/okfd9pj/", "content": "Obviously more to it if you’re bothered to read the post…" }, { "id": "t1_okfr33c", "author": "", "updated": "2026-05-07T12:44:46+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t3gr0p/the_ultimate_side_hustle_business_to_get_wealthy/okfr33c/", "content": "[deleted]" }, { "id": "t1_okhp4wi", "author": "/u/maddogyamad", "updated": "2026-05-07T18:04:35+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t3gr0p/the_ultimate_side_hustle_business_to_get_wealthy/okhp4wi/", "content": "Yeah that’s something you can look at. My advice is stick with one and be really good at it" }, { "id": "t1_okgmup5", "author": "/u/nickbiiy_ai", "updated": "2026-05-07T15:16:41+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t3gr0p/the_ultimate_side_hustle_business_to_get_wealthy/okgmup5/", "content": "Well written. 💯 Can't be any better, got a lot to learn from this post. I think my takeaway here is just extending grace to yourself by being patient and just grit and determination." }, { "id": "t1_okhowxw", "author": "/u/maddogyamad", "updated": "2026-05-07T18:03:35+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t3gr0p/the_ultimate_side_hustle_business_to_get_wealthy/okhowxw/", "content": "Thank you! Yep you’ve got it! Listen to anyone who is successful, not just entrepreneurs, they’ll tell you it took years of slogging it out to reap the rewards." }, { "id": "t1_oktf6yy", "author": "/u/Blqcksmithk", "updated": "2026-05-09T13:07:57+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t3gr0p/the_ultimate_side_hustle_business_to_get_wealthy/oktf6yy/", "content": "." }, { "id": "t1_okyy9fg", "author": "/u/WolfAffectionatefk", "updated": "2026-05-10T10:03:07+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t3gr0p/the_ultimate_side_hustle_business_to_get_wealthy/okyy9fg/", "content": "This is no shortcut" }, { "id": "t1_okyyb52", "author": "/u/maddogyamad", "updated": "2026-05-10T10:03:32+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t3gr0p/the_ultimate_side_hustle_business_to_get_wealthy/okyyb52/", "content": "Explain" }, { "id": "t1_ol87jp8", "author": "/u/cmfkr", "updated": "2026-05-11T18:35:27+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t3gr0p/the_ultimate_side_hustle_business_to_get_wealthy/ol87jp8/", "content": "fail quick fail cheap" }, { "id": "t1_omdn9el", "author": "/u/Emergency_Corner1638", "updated": "2026-05-17T21:49:43+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t3gr0p/the_ultimate_side_hustle_business_to_get_wealthy/omdn9el/", "content": "Instead of waiting to start and planning everything perfect and precise JUST START. You'll learn 1000% more by just doing, failing and improving" }, { "id": "t1_omje9hd", "author": "/u/maddogyamad", "updated": "2026-05-18T19:35:22+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t3gr0p/the_ultimate_side_hustle_business_to_get_wealthy/omje9hd/", "content": "Yeah most definitely. As long as you’ve got a pretty decent idea and set up the most important things (e.g from a legal and liability aspect) then go your hardest. You’ll lose money, make money, fight with co founders, celebrate small and big wins + so on. Learn by doing" }, { "id": "t1_ojv6zpc", "author": "/u/Zappa2026", "updated": "2026-05-04T13:50:22+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t3gr0p/the_ultimate_side_hustle_business_to_get_wealthy/ojv6zpc/", "content": "I would love some mentorship. But am broke. I would love to start my own business but so overwhelmed by all the different options out there. Am willing to put the time and effort into something meaningful for me and the people I’m helping with my product or service. Just have no idea where to start 😕" }, { "id": "t1_ojv7xbt", "author": "/u/maddogyamad", "updated": "2026-05-04T13:55:02+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t3gr0p/the_ultimate_side_hustle_business_to_get_wealthy/ojv7xbt/", "content": "The beauty with mentorship is that you can get it for free. I just gave you 5 valuable points for free. There are so many resources out there for free!\n Start the problem, then you’ll find the product. I applaud you for willing to put in the time and effort, but if you are willing to put the time and effort in when the business is making money, you gotta do that before. Which is now. Which is 3 months and maybe even 6 months. I believe in you man! Start from the very start. Go about your day and write in your phone notes or on a bit of paper some of the problems and frustrations you face in everyday life. Then ask others if they have the same problem. Expand off that." }, { "id": "t1_ojv8mhe", "author": "/u/Zappa2026", "updated": "2026-05-04T13:58:29+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t3gr0p/the_ultimate_side_hustle_business_to_get_wealthy/ojv8mhe/", "content": "Thank you for this I’ve been overthinking this for too long. Time for action. I appreciate your input and honesty 🙏" }, { "id": "t1_ojv8vlp", "author": "/u/maddogyamad", "updated": "2026-05-04T13:59:44+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t3gr0p/the_ultimate_side_hustle_business_to_get_wealthy/ojv8vlp/", "content": "You’re welcome! Don’t overthink it. You don’t need to reinvent the wheel, just make it better, more accessible, different colour, cheaper, easier etc. You got this!" }, { "id": "t1_ojvfwso", "author": "/u/Zappa2026", "updated": "2026-05-04T14:33:01+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t3gr0p/the_ultimate_side_hustle_business_to_get_wealthy/ojvfwso/", "content": "I’ll get back to you one year from today with my success story. 👍🏼" }, { "id": "t1_ojvg4bg", "author": "/u/maddogyamad", "updated": "2026-05-04T14:34:00+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t3gr0p/the_ultimate_side_hustle_business_to_get_wealthy/ojvg4bg/", "content": "I’ll hold you to that!" }, { "id": "t1_ojv837o", "author": "", "updated": "2026-05-04T13:55:50+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t3gr0p/the_ultimate_side_hustle_business_to_get_wealthy/ojv837o/", "content": "[deleted]" }, { "id": "t1_ojv8ih7", "author": "/u/maddogyamad", "updated": "2026-05-04T13:57:55+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t3gr0p/the_ultimate_side_hustle_business_to_get_wealthy/ojv8ih7/", "content": "Yeah exactly right. Problem is people compare themselves to others who are years down the track. Everyone has to start from the start.\n Good on you for sticking with it! Just keep learning. How can you do it quicker? Why is some months better than others? How can you automate things to allocate time for other parts? That’s how you get bigger and better!" }, { "id": "t1_ojvjvem", "author": "/u/snobordir", "updated": "2026-05-04T14:51:09+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t3gr0p/the_ultimate_side_hustle_business_to_get_wealthy/ojvjvem/", "content": "Agree that ultimately success takes hard work, despite the irony of the sub it’s in. Though I disagree with the implication that it only comes down to grit and determination, 100 fold considering the context of being billionaire-level successful. Luck will always be involved too, even in small successes." }, { "id": "t1_ojy4her", "author": "/u/maddogyamad", "updated": "2026-05-04T21:52:15+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t3gr0p/the_ultimate_side_hustle_business_to_get_wealthy/ojy4her/", "content": "Haha a little bit ironic isn’t it.\n I wouldn’t say it’s ‘only’ grit and determination, but the point is nothing comes easy. A ‘side hustle’ still is a hustle. It’s still a business. Even if you’re just selling coffee mugs on a weekend at a local market, you still need to look at profit and losses, how’s your stall gonna stand out from the rest? How you going to travel there with them all? What happens if you sell out or not sell a single one?\n I agree with luck. But not in the sense that you flip a coin and you land on success. You do create a lot of your own luck. But of course you can be in the right place at the right time. Probably a whole different discussion around that anyway." }, { "id": "t1_ojyhu6o", "author": "/u/snobordir", "updated": "2026-05-04T23:04:01+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t3gr0p/the_ultimate_side_hustle_business_to_get_wealthy/ojyhu6o/", "content": "Yeah I think a lot of 'hard work' can be basically 'putting yourself right in luck's path.' Say you are selling mugs--no matter how much prep and hard work you put in, ultimately people interested in mugs in the style you're selling them have to show up to that market. That's luck. But the luck won't matter if you don't show up." }, { "id": "t1_ojyj2ow", "author": "/u/maddogyamad", "updated": "2026-05-04T23:10:45+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t3gr0p/the_ultimate_side_hustle_business_to_get_wealthy/ojyj2ow/", "content": "Yep I agree. You do make your own luck. Imagine you put all that effort in for those mugs and then without prior knowledge, 3 blocks down from your market stall there is actually a mug convention or something. You’re going to be very ‘unlucky’.\n I think however the way you said “people interested in the mugs in the style you’re selling them have to show up to the market”. I do agree, that’s lucky. But if you made 0 sales that day and put it down to “I’m just unlucky”, that’s the trap. Maybe instead you need to refine the way you market them? Instead of reaching out to everyone, make a sign that says “a good gift for dad”. Or rebrand into custom printing. Thats adapting to the market and not just putting it down to luck.\n So I do agree with you, but also people need to be very careful with how they look at luck. The biggest luck people will have is that they’ve got the ability to create something based on their geographical location, access to resources (e.g the internet) physical and mental health, positioning, people around them and so forth." }, { "id": "t1_ol0i3bz", "author": "/u/pantrino", "updated": "2026-05-10T15:44:47+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t3gr0p/the_ultimate_side_hustle_business_to_get_wealthy/ol0i3bz/", "content": "what a generic waste of time text... you have a lot of free time he..." }, { "id": "t1_ol287l4", "author": "/u/maddogyamad", "updated": "2026-05-10T20:41:29+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t3gr0p/the_ultimate_side_hustle_business_to_get_wealthy/ol287l4/", "content": "Okay" }, { "id": "t1_ojuxsw3", "author": "/u/Existing_Victory_867", "updated": "2026-05-04T13:02:42+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t3gr0p/the_ultimate_side_hustle_business_to_get_wealthy/ojuxsw3/", "content": "Way too much text for someone just trying to sell a course at the end, also who has time to read business plan when you're working full time in military" }, { "id": "t1_ojuy76f", "author": "/u/maddogyamad", "updated": "2026-05-04T13:04:51+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t3gr0p/the_ultimate_side_hustle_business_to_get_wealthy/ojuy76f/", "content": "(Hint: there is no course. Or selling. Or anything. Just a lot of reading.)" }, { "id": "t1_ojv7oe5", "author": "/u/oholymike", "updated": "2026-05-04T13:53:48+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t3gr0p/the_ultimate_side_hustle_business_to_get_wealthy/ojv7oe5/", "content": "It's not even that much reading. People huff at having to read a few paragraphs to get solid direction, but will spend hours mindlessly doomscrolling for laughs." }, { "id": "t1_ojv838c", "author": "/u/maddogyamad", "updated": "2026-05-04T13:55:50+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t3gr0p/the_ultimate_side_hustle_business_to_get_wealthy/ojv838c/", "content": "Haha exactly!" }, { "id": "t1_ojuy0zf", "author": "/u/maddogyamad", "updated": "2026-05-04T13:03:56+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t3gr0p/the_ultimate_side_hustle_business_to_get_wealthy/ojuy0zf/", "content": "This is exactly my point. I dare you to go read it and get back to me." }, { "id": "t1_ojv6u62", "author": "/u/catdog1111111", "updated": "2026-05-04T13:49:37+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t3gr0p/the_ultimate_side_hustle_business_to_get_wealthy/ojv6u62/", "content": "Remove the quip about paying you money and it will remove confusion." }, { "id": "t1_ojvrgia", "author": "/u/Angryw2", "updated": "2026-05-04T15:25:32+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t3gr0p/the_ultimate_side_hustle_business_to_get_wealthy/ojvrgia/", "content": "It's a sad state of affairs if we're unable to recognise sarcasm in text now, literally 3rd grade reading man surely we haven't regressed that far yet." }, { "id": "t1_ojx4m7y", "author": "/u/vezt", "updated": "2026-05-04T19:05:18+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t3gr0p/the_ultimate_side_hustle_business_to_get_wealthy/ojx4m7y/", "content": "He says "I'm joking" the next word after the $997 lol. If ppl are missing that..." }, { "id": "t1_ojy3tcs", "author": "/u/maddogyamad", "updated": "2026-05-04T21:48:51+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t3gr0p/the_ultimate_side_hustle_business_to_get_wealthy/ojy3tcs/", "content": "If they’re missing that, then they’ve got no hope haha." }, { "id": "t1_ojuvpac", "author": "", "updated": "2026-05-04T12:51:12+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t3gr0p/the_ultimate_side_hustle_business_to_get_wealthy/ojuvpac/", "content": "[deleted]" }, { "id": "t1_ojuyzfk", "author": "/u/maddogyamad", "updated": "2026-05-04T13:09:01+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t3gr0p/the_ultimate_side_hustle_business_to_get_wealthy/ojuyzfk/", "content": "Pffft." } ] }, { "source": "r/passive_income top month", "id": "t3_1tr1deo", "title": "A couple months ago I posted my breakdown of every passive income thing I tried. Kind of wild what happened after.", "author": "/u/Existing-Ice221", "updated": "2026-05-29T13:08:45+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tr1deo/a_couple_months_ago_i_posted_my_breakdown_of/", "content": "Not sure if anyone remembers but a while back I posted here going through every passive income idea I tried over 2 years. The dropshipping losses, the youtube automation that settled at like $120 a month, all of it. The only thing that actually worked was hyper specific etsy products, the hashimoto tracker, the IBS one with the FODMAP categories.\n Anyway that post did numbers I did not expect and my inbox kind of exploded. Few hundred DMs over like 3 weeks. A WSJ reporter even reached out and interviewed me for a piece they're working on about passive income culture, still feels weird to type that out loud.\n But the part that actually got to me was the DMs were all basically the same message. People already had the niche. The nurse who knew exactly what other shift workers needed. The mom who knew what the other moms in her group were asking for every week. They weren't short on ideas or motivation. They were short on time. Nobody has a free weekend to sit down and build the thing.\n And I was the exact same person 2 years ago so it hit kind of hard.\n So I started just helping a few of them. Showing them how I scope a product so it ships in a day instead of eating a whole weekend. Then it turned into me building the stuff with them. Somewhere in there I stopped caring about my own etsy shop, it still makes its little $400-700 on autopilot but I haven't touched it in weeks.\n The thing I got wrong in the first post: I said volume doesn't matter much. It does. The ones shipping 3 to 5 products do way better than the ones doing 1. Not better products, just more shots.\n Anyway. If you DMed me back then and never heard back I'm sorry, I drowned around message 400. If you're still building I'd actually like to hear where you landed.\n submitted by /u/Existing-Ice221\n [link] [comments]", "contentHtml": "

Not sure if anyone remembers but a while back I posted here going through every passive income idea I tried over 2 years. The dropshipping losses, the youtube automation that settled at like $120 a month, all of it. The only thing that actually worked was hyper specific etsy products, the hashimoto tracker, the IBS one with the FODMAP categories.

Anyway that post did numbers I did not expect and my inbox kind of exploded. Few hundred DMs over like 3 weeks. A WSJ reporter even reached out and interviewed me for a piece they're working on about passive income culture, still feels weird to type that out loud.

But the part that actually got to me was the DMs were all basically the same message. People already had the niche. The nurse who knew exactly what other shift workers needed. The mom who knew what the other moms in her group were asking for every week. They weren't short on ideas or motivation. They were short on time. Nobody has a free weekend to sit down and build the thing.

And I was the exact same person 2 years ago so it hit kind of hard.

So I started just helping a few of them. Showing them how I scope a product so it ships in a day instead of eating a whole weekend. Then it turned into me building the stuff with them. Somewhere in there I stopped caring about my own etsy shop, it still makes its little $400-700 on autopilot but I haven't touched it in weeks.

The thing I got wrong in the first post: I said volume doesn't matter much. It does. The ones shipping 3 to 5 products do way better than the ones doing 1. Not better products, just more shots.

Anyway. If you DMed me back then and never heard back I'm sorry, I drowned around message 400. If you're still building I'd actually like to hear where you landed.

submitted by /u/Existing-Ice221
[link] [comments]", "comments": [ { "id": "t1_ookbo76", "author": "/u/AutoModerator", "updated": "2026-05-29T13:08:46+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tr1deo/a_couple_months_ago_i_posted_my_breakdown_of/ookbo76/", "content": "Check out the Community Highlights for current and future Mod Vetted opportunities and Newsletter Episodes.\n Please do due diligence on any crypto opportunity. A simple google search could save you a fortune.\n I am a bot, and this action was performed automatically. Please contact the moderators of this subreddit if you have any questions or concerns." }, { "id": "t1_ookxmvo", "author": "/u/moedet001", "updated": "2026-05-29T14:51:26+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tr1deo/a_couple_months_ago_i_posted_my_breakdown_of/ookxmvo/", "content": "Sounds to me it's time for you to step into the next part of this path, sell some courses." }, { "id": "t1_ookyrsb", "author": "/u/Existing-Ice221", "updated": "2026-05-29T14:56:29+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tr1deo/a_couple_months_ago_i_posted_my_breakdown_of/ookyrsb/", "content": "nah honestly courses are the last thing i wanna make lol. half this sub is people who bought a $500 course that taught them nothing. the whole point is people already know what to do, they just don’t have time to do it. a course gives them more homework. they don’t need homework, they need the thing built. i’d rather just build it with them than sell them another pdf telling them how" }, { "id": "t1_ool26ud", "author": "/u/moedet001", "updated": "2026-05-29T15:11:39+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tr1deo/a_couple_months_ago_i_posted_my_breakdown_of/ool26ud/", "content": "I admire the position. I agree with you, but that's just the natural evolution it seems in anything people do online these days." }, { "id": "t1_ool3m4t", "author": "/u/Existing-Ice221", "updated": "2026-05-29T15:17:56+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tr1deo/a_couple_months_ago_i_posted_my_breakdown_of/ool3m4t/", "content": "yeah you’re probably right. everything online eventually turns into either a course or a done-for-you thing lol. i just picked the side that lets me sleep at night. good chat man" }, { "id": "t1_ool4abe", "author": "/u/moedet001", "updated": "2026-05-29T15:20:52+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tr1deo/a_couple_months_ago_i_posted_my_breakdown_of/ool4abe/", "content": "Why not be the change you want to see, you're being flooded with people asking to learn, and you are teaching some. Why not put it into the form of a course, not to be sold but to be the foundation of a community. Something dedicated to helping people not hurting them like the rest. You could go from helping one here and there to literally helping the masses." }, { "id": "t1_ool4uj3", "author": "/u/Existing-Ice221", "updated": "2026-05-29T15:23:22+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tr1deo/a_couple_months_ago_i_posted_my_breakdown_of/ool4uj3/", "content": "that’s actually a really good way to put it. the community angle over the course angle. i’ve thought about it. the thing holding me back is i don’t wanna become another guy with a discord full of people who never ship anything lol. but you’re right that there’s a version of it that’s actually helpful. maybe the move is document what works publicly and let the people who want hands on help raise their hand. still figuring that part out honestly" }, { "id": "t1_oopcjm2", "author": "/u/IsaOak", "updated": "2026-05-30T04:22:42+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tr1deo/a_couple_months_ago_i_posted_my_breakdown_of/oopcjm2/", "content": "Sounds like a business plan. Consulting and track metrics. Give out market metrics and results of different approaches. That is far different than just a course." }, { "id": "t1_ooqok1w", "author": "/u/QuietSeaworthiness43", "updated": "2026-05-30T11:01:02+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tr1deo/a_couple_months_ago_i_posted_my_breakdown_of/ooqok1w/", "content": "focus on the ones that do raise their hands and show up and double down on them, bet the pay out is huge!" }, { "id": "t1_oomi45y", "author": "/u/TheRealRubiksMaster", "updated": "2026-05-29T18:58:51+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tr1deo/a_couple_months_ago_i_posted_my_breakdown_of/oomi45y/", "content": "Soooo, consultancy?" }, { "id": "t1_oonuqcr", "author": "/u/Existing-Ice221", "updated": "2026-05-29T22:56:55+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tr1deo/a_couple_months_ago_i_posted_my_breakdown_of/oonuqcr/", "content": "lol kinda? except consultants charge you 200/hr to tell you what to do and then you still gotta do it yourself. i'd rather just do the thing. but yeah i guess "guy who builds the thing for you" doesn't have a clean job title yet" }, { "id": "t1_oooxq8z", "author": "/u/Clean-Data-259", "updated": "2026-05-30T02:43:29+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tr1deo/a_couple_months_ago_i_posted_my_breakdown_of/oooxq8z/", "content": "Service provider" }, { "id": "t1_oopdcib", "author": "/u/ct06033", "updated": "2026-05-30T04:28:33+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tr1deo/a_couple_months_ago_i_posted_my_breakdown_of/oopdcib/", "content": "Either as a service or an incubator. Offer expertise and help fir a share in profit. Seems like a good plan" }, { "id": "t1_ooq1401", "author": "/u/kiltbk", "updated": "2026-05-30T07:39:03+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tr1deo/a_couple_months_ago_i_posted_my_breakdown_of/ooq1401/", "content": "Actually, "guy who build things for you" can be called a consultant.\n Just a consultant with a delivery plan that includes build it, ship it, support it to help people get their thing going\n Side Gig Consultant - I help you make the hustle real.." }, { "id": "t1_ooqfowd", "author": "/u/Existing-Ice221", "updated": "2026-05-30T09:48:09+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tr1deo/a_couple_months_ago_i_posted_my_breakdown_of/ooqfowd/", "content": "“side gig consultant” not bad. i might steal that. the make the hustle real part is exactly it tho" }, { "id": "t1_op84fut", "author": "/u/kiltbk", "updated": "2026-06-02T00:04:57+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tr1deo/a_couple_months_ago_i_posted_my_breakdown_of/op84fut/", "content": "No theft involved, it's a free gift!" }, { "id": "t1_op1p70v", "author": "/u/Natural_Spirit1111", "updated": "2026-06-01T01:18:20+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tr1deo/a_couple_months_ago_i_posted_my_breakdown_of/op1p70v/", "content": "How bout “Accountabuildabuddy”" }, { "id": "t1_oooxnd7", "author": "/u/Clean-Data-259", "updated": "2026-05-30T02:43:01+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tr1deo/a_couple_months_ago_i_posted_my_breakdown_of/oooxnd7/", "content": "an honest person. rare in this world." }, { "id": "t1_oorzof9", "author": "/u/Adonathiel88", "updated": "2026-05-30T15:30:47+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tr1deo/a_couple_months_ago_i_posted_my_breakdown_of/oorzof9/", "content": "So when you say builder...is this whole sub just for software developers? I'm not one but i tried a bit of replit Claude etc, free tiers of course and besides seeing a relatively good ui and good ux demo, when it comes to actual integrations and back end security, that seems years away to fully code an app that works and is secure without coding, I'm running out of options :((" }, { "id": "t1_oomufmz", "author": "/u/Hrushikesh_1187", "updated": "2026-05-29T19:55:29+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tr1deo/a_couple_months_ago_i_posted_my_breakdown_of/oomufmz/", "content": "The "short on time not ideas" observation is the most useful thing in this post. Most people who fail at passive income don't have an idea problem, they have an execution window problem.\n That's also why tools that reduce setup friction tend to matter more than people think. I've seen people spend weeks planning a project and then build the first version in a weekend once the initial content, design, and packaging work got out of the way. I use Runable for a lot of that early-stage creation work because it lets me get from idea to something shareable faster.\n The product they would've built existed, they just never had the uninterrupted weekend to start it." }, { "id": "t1_oonuchj", "author": "/u/Existing-Ice221", "updated": "2026-05-29T22:54:49+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tr1deo/a_couple_months_ago_i_posted_my_breakdown_of/oonuchj/", "content": "yeah that's exactly it. the execution window thing. people beat themselves up thinking they're not creative enough when really they just never got the 2 uninterrupted days to start. the idea was never the problem" }, { "id": "t1_ootfa0c", "author": "/u/Hrushikesh_1187", "updated": "2026-05-30T19:38:35+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tr1deo/a_couple_months_ago_i_posted_my_breakdown_of/ootfa0c/", "content": "And even when they get those 2 days, they're usually exhausted. A lot of side projects fail from lack of energy and focus, not lack of ideas." }, { "id": "t1_ootl6e7", "author": "/u/Existing-Ice221", "updated": "2026-05-30T20:08:35+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tr1deo/a_couple_months_ago_i_posted_my_breakdown_of/ootl6e7/", "content": "the exhaustion part is real. you finally get the time and youre too fried to use it. thats the trap nobody talks about" }, { "id": "t1_oomkw9v", "author": "", "updated": "2026-05-29T19:11:30+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tr1deo/a_couple_months_ago_i_posted_my_breakdown_of/oomkw9v/", "content": "[deleted]" }, { "id": "t1_oonuibh", "author": "/u/Existing-Ice221", "updated": "2026-05-29T22:55:42+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tr1deo/a_couple_months_ago_i_posted_my_breakdown_of/oonuibh/", "content": "appreciate it man. yeah the volume thing took me too long to figure out." }, { "id": "t1_ooo1mi7", "author": "/u/ahomelessguy", "updated": "2026-05-29T23:35:15+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tr1deo/a_couple_months_ago_i_posted_my_breakdown_of/ooo1mi7/", "content": "Honesty and integrity, eh? How dare you besmirch Reddit with such things...\n Great read, mate. I'll have to read your original stuff because I like where this is headed.\n Somewhere along the way I began to ignore the profit and see & hear people instead. Started helping people, telling myself I'd make a case study to add proof for my agency. I have a couple of companies here in the UK and, sure, would have been ideal to do those case studies - but I never did. Annoyingly and amazingly, by focusing on just altruistic work, and keeping my mind on genuinely helping people, I formed the blueprints for the projects that are now going to be the future of my companies.\n It's weird. It's like the more you chase revenue the more it evades you. Helping people for the sake of it is just pure raw work, and focuses you in a way that invoices don't. I owe a debt of gratitude to the people who I elevated; people who think they owe me (their businesses are smashing it now).\n You seem like somebody I'd get along with haha good on you brother" }, { "id": "t1_ooo24uq", "author": "/u/Existing-Ice221", "updated": "2026-05-29T23:38:07+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tr1deo/a_couple_months_ago_i_posted_my_breakdown_of/ooo24uq/", "content": "Yeah XD integrity on reddit, im a rebel. that thing you said about chasing revenue and it evading you, thats exactly it. the second i stopped thinking about the invoice and just helped the person the work got better. funny how that works. sounds like youre way ahead of me on it tho, couple companies is no joke. appreciate you man, glad it landed" }, { "id": "t1_ooo2z4s", "author": "/u/ahomelessguy", "updated": "2026-05-29T23:42:51+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tr1deo/a_couple_months_ago_i_posted_my_breakdown_of/ooo2z4s/", "content": "Nah, seriously, it's truly refreshing to read this on Reddit. Almost uninstalled it because all of the business subs and cold email etc are just AI bots replying to AI bots via Reddit reply SaaS. It's exhausting.\n My companies have great teams, and they work best if I stay out of their way haha they leave me to strategize, code, automate and build stuff they need for the most part :) I know my place." }, { "id": "t1_oolcfa9", "author": "/u/VisualWater2963", "updated": "2026-05-29T15:56:27+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tr1deo/a_couple_months_ago_i_posted_my_breakdown_of/oolcfa9/", "content": "Can I ask what do you sell on Etsy?" }, { "id": "t1_oolcred", "author": "/u/Existing-Ice221", "updated": "2026-05-29T15:57:54+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tr1deo/a_couple_months_ago_i_posted_my_breakdown_of/oolcred/", "content": "honestly i keep the shop name off reddit on purpose. learned the hard way that posting your store here means competitors copy your exact listings within a week lol. but it’s health and parenting stuff, the specific tracker type products i mentioned. nothing fancy. the niche matters way more than the shop itself" }, { "id": "t1_oopwg0z", "author": "/u/VisualWater2963", "updated": "2026-05-30T06:59:22+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tr1deo/a_couple_months_ago_i_posted_my_breakdown_of/oopwg0z/", "content": "I wasn’t prying for the name shop or specific products - I thought you’re gonna reply digital products or art - so thank you for your answer. 🙂" }, { "id": "t1_oooywwd", "author": "/u/sam_narulaaa", "updated": "2026-05-30T02:50:40+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tr1deo/a_couple_months_ago_i_posted_my_breakdown_of/oooywwd/", "content": "This is the part most people miss when they talk about “passive income ideas”, the idea isn’t usually the bottleneck, execution time is.\n I’ve seen similar patterns where people already know exactly what niche they should target, they’ve just been sitting on it because building feels like a weekend project instead of a repeatable system. The shift you described, moving from “one perfect product” to “more shots on goal” is usually where things actually start compounding.\n Also not surprising your inbox turned into that. When you post something detailed like that, you attract people who already have context but are stuck in execution friction. That gap between knowing and shipping is where most people stay for years." }, { "id": "t1_ooozp7w", "author": "/u/Existing-Ice221", "updated": "2026-05-30T02:55:41+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tr1deo/a_couple_months_ago_i_posted_my_breakdown_of/ooozp7w/", "content": "execution friction is a good way to put it. thats the whole thing" }, { "id": "t1_oons05r", "author": "/u/Living-Agency1717", "updated": "2026-05-29T22:42:02+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tr1deo/a_couple_months_ago_i_posted_my_breakdown_of/oons05r/", "content": "Could you tell me the substitute of etsy?" }, { "id": "t1_oonul1l", "author": "/u/Existing-Ice221", "updated": "2026-05-29T22:56:07+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tr1deo/a_couple_months_ago_i_posted_my_breakdown_of/oonul1l/", "content": "depends what you're selling but the main ones are gumroad, payhip, and your own site if you wanna keep more of the cut. gumroad is the easiest to start, payhip has lower fees, etsy still has the best built in traffic for search based stuff. honestly i tell people to start where the buyers already are then move them to your own thing later once you have an audience" }, { "id": "t1_oonuce7", "author": "/u/Party_Log1449", "updated": "2026-05-29T22:54:48+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tr1deo/a_couple_months_ago_i_posted_my_breakdown_of/oonuce7/", "content": "Hi, I'm looking for an income even if it's not much but just some income and new to Reddit aswell is anyone willing to please help me out" }, { "id": "t1_oonuyr3", "author": "/u/Existing-Ice221", "updated": "2026-05-29T22:58:13+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tr1deo/a_couple_months_ago_i_posted_my_breakdown_of/oonuyr3/", "content": "hey, honest advice since you're starting out. don't spend a dollar on any course or tool anyone dms you, especially right now. the fastest actual cash when you're starting from zero isn't digital products, that stuff takes months to ramp. look into stuff that pays quick like freelancing small tasks, local gigs, selling stuff you already own. r/WorkOnline and r/beermoney have legit starting points. digital products are a slower game, build that later once you've got some breathing room. you got this" }, { "id": "t1_oonv03z", "author": "/u/sneakpeekbot", "updated": "2026-05-29T22:58:25+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tr1deo/a_couple_months_ago_i_posted_my_breakdown_of/oonv03z/", "content": "Here's a sneak peek of /r/WorkOnline using the top posts of the year!\n #1: The reality behind "AI Training"\n #2: anyone here actually found a good remote job lately\n #3: Anyone else seeing “remote” jobs that turn out to be on-site?\n I'm a bot, beep boop | Downvote to remove | Contact | Info | Opt-out | GitHub" }, { "id": "t1_oonv7y2", "author": "/u/Party_Log1449", "updated": "2026-05-29T22:59:37+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tr1deo/a_couple_months_ago_i_posted_my_breakdown_of/oonv7y2/", "content": "Thanks so much will check them out" }, { "id": "t1_oovnrdz", "author": "/u/Chef-Tauren", "updated": "2026-05-31T03:21:36+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tr1deo/a_couple_months_ago_i_posted_my_breakdown_of/oovnrdz/", "content": "nice person" }, { "id": "t1_ooplltj", "author": "/u/HedgepigMatt", "updated": "2026-05-30T05:30:51+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tr1deo/a_couple_months_ago_i_posted_my_breakdown_of/ooplltj/", "content": "No idea if it was you, but I totally got inspired by the whole "forget pdf, do a single html app" thing and built a little app in the parenting niche. Got one sale but I think that was a fluke. Pretty clueless otherwise, but I'm happy I actually built it. Playing around with etsy ads." }, { "id": "t1_ooqfhip", "author": "/u/Existing-Ice221", "updated": "2026-05-30T09:46:21+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tr1deo/a_couple_months_ago_i_posted_my_breakdown_of/ooqfhip/", "content": "hey thats awesome man, doesnt matter if it was me, you actually built the thing and shipped it which is more than most people do. one sale isnt a fluke btw, somebody you dont know paid you money for something you made, thats proof it works. now its just volume and figuring out the ads. hows etsy ads treating you so far, that rabbit hole got me good when i started" }, { "id": "t1_ooqh3ph", "author": "/u/HedgepigMatt", "updated": "2026-05-30T10:00:15+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tr1deo/a_couple_months_ago_i_posted_my_breakdown_of/ooqh3ph/", "content": "Thank you, yeah, that's the key, actually doing it\n Makes it a bit easier me being a dev, not that I hand coded it, but means I know what's going on when it breaks.\n Also chose Elm and output to a single file, the compiler is great for llms and it gives some certainties around runtime bugs (the lack of)." }, { "id": "t1_ooqidfc", "author": "/u/Existing-Ice221", "updated": "2026-05-30T10:11:03+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tr1deo/a_couple_months_ago_i_posted_my_breakdown_of/ooqidfc/", "content": "oh nice, elm is a solid pick. i went the single file route too for everything i ship and honestly it changed how i think about it, way less that can break and you can just hand someone the file and it works offline. never touched elm tho, hows the learning curve coming from whatever you used before? been curious about it for a while" }, { "id": "t1_ooqks38", "author": "/u/HedgepigMatt", "updated": "2026-05-30T10:31:07+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tr1deo/a_couple_months_ago_i_posted_my_breakdown_of/ooqks38/", "content": "Tbh I barely had to look at the code, it just works, the compiler messages are great so the language model fixes bugs immediately. If it compiles, it will run. But the language is fairly simple as far as languages go, just a big shift in mentality vs procedural languages.\n Happy to share a repo of the starter if you want.\n I feel most of the work (in the build) is deciding what to include, and making the ui/ux work. Google stitch is great for the design." }, { "id": "t1_ooq33uk", "author": "/u/LayerTrace", "updated": "2026-05-30T07:56:12+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tr1deo/a_couple_months_ago_i_posted_my_breakdown_of/ooq33uk/", "content": "Is there such a thing as being too niche? 🤔" }, { "id": "t1_ooqftgt", "author": "/u/Existing-Ice221", "updated": "2026-05-30T09:49:15+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tr1deo/a_couple_months_ago_i_posted_my_breakdown_of/ooqftgt/", "content": "if the niche is so tiny theres like 12 people who want it youre wasting your time. the sweet spot is specific enough that theres barely any competition but big enough that people actually search for it. like “meal planner” is too broad but “fodmap meal planner for IBS” is just right. “fodmap meal planner for left handed vegans in tuesday” is too far lol" }, { "id": "t1_ooqllyb", "author": "/u/RaindropJane", "updated": "2026-05-30T10:38:00+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tr1deo/a_couple_months_ago_i_posted_my_breakdown_of/ooqllyb/", "content": "Whether the results are up or down, it's refreshing to see someone document the journey honestly." }, { "id": "t1_op83o0c", "author": "/u/Existing-Ice221", "updated": "2026-06-02T00:00:27+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tr1deo/a_couple_months_ago_i_posted_my_breakdown_of/op83o0c/", "content": "appreciate that. figured theres enough people online only showing the wins, somebody might as well show the messy middle too. thanks for reading" }, { "id": "t1_oor86z4", "author": "/u/LeaderAtLeading", "updated": "2026-05-30T13:07:52+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tr1deo/a_couple_months_ago_i_posted_my_breakdown_of/oor86z4/", "content": "Passive income breakdowns get attention but most ideas die because no one was actually searching for the problem" }, { "id": "t1_op8409o", "author": "/u/Existing-Ice221", "updated": "2026-06-02T00:02:25+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tr1deo/a_couple_months_ago_i_posted_my_breakdown_of/op8409o/", "content": "exactly. demand first, everything else second. you can build the most polished thing in the world but if nobody's searching for it youre just talking to yourself" }, { "id": "t1_oos3esw", "author": "/u/T4keMeRoughjessy37", "updated": "2026-05-30T15:49:17+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tr1deo/a_couple_months_ago_i_posted_my_breakdown_of/oos3esw/", "content": "The pivot to niche digital products is always the move because the people selling courses are the only ones actually making bank on the other stuff. Glad you stopped chasing that dropshipping ghost while everyone else is still burning cash on ads." }, { "id": "t1_op842rj", "author": "/u/Existing-Ice221", "updated": "2026-06-02T00:02:49+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tr1deo/a_couple_months_ago_i_posted_my_breakdown_of/op842rj/", "content": "the dropshipping ghost, perfect way to put it. yeah the only people winning at most of this are the ones selling the dream to everyone else. niche digital stuff is boring but it actually works" }, { "id": "t1_oox9wyx", "author": "/u/grimmwerks", "updated": "2026-05-31T11:16:08+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tr1deo/a_couple_months_ago_i_posted_my_breakdown_of/oox9wyx/", "content": "I’m curious about your Hashimoto’s tracker as I’ve got it and am having problems lately - I think my T3 is low" }, { "id": "t1_op84e2o", "author": "/u/Existing-Ice221", "updated": "2026-06-02T00:04:39+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tr1deo/a_couple_months_ago_i_posted_my_breakdown_of/op84e2o/", "content": "ah man I'm sorry you're going through a rough patch with it. low t3 stuff is no joke. Honestly the only real move there is getting your levels checked and talked through with your doctor, a tracker can help you spot patterns but it cant replace that. hope you get it sorted, that condition is exhausting to manage" }, { "id": "t1_opampz3", "author": "/u/grimmwerks", "updated": "2026-06-02T10:58:27+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tr1deo/a_couple_months_ago_i_posted_my_breakdown_of/opampz3/", "content": "I originally got hit with Lyme in 2018 that really took me down -- I turned into a 90 year old man very quickly. Was on doxycycline for about 8 months and no sugar; things turned around but then was diagnosed with the hashimoto's. Was on armour for 8 years but then moved to the UK to be near the in-laws -- they rarely do Armour and instead have given me levo which is only t4. Got sick in January, by Feb everything has been all off and trying to get my bloodwork to show them it's the t3 -- but over here the NHS guidelines say if your TSH and T4 levels are fine there's no reason to look at the T3. Been a pain in the ass (and everywhere else) since then. Starting to feel better but trying to figure out a path back onto the armour over here.\n Anyway - thanks ;P -- just venting." }, { "id": "t1_op6g97x", "author": "/u/Silent_Owl_9298", "updated": "2026-06-01T19:01:51+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tr1deo/a_couple_months_ago_i_posted_my_breakdown_of/op6g97x/", "content": "I need a guy to build a thing!" }, { "id": "t1_op82upu", "author": "/u/Existing-Ice221", "updated": "2026-06-01T23:55:48+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tr1deo/a_couple_months_ago_i_posted_my_breakdown_of/op82upu/", "content": "haha what are you trying to build? shoot me a dm and tell me about it, happy to point you in the right direction even if i cant do it myself" }, { "id": "t1_op7e25i", "author": "/u/sadtwilight", "updated": "2026-06-01T21:41:55+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tr1deo/a_couple_months_ago_i_posted_my_breakdown_of/op7e25i/", "content": "It is wonderful that you shared your knowledge. Thank you. The world needs more people like you." }, { "id": "t1_op83evm", "author": "/u/Existing-Ice221", "updated": "2026-06-01T23:59:01+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tr1deo/a_couple_months_ago_i_posted_my_breakdown_of/op83evm/", "content": "man this means a lot, thank you. honestly i just wrote down the stuff i wish someone told me 2 years ago when i was lost. glad it landed with you" }, { "id": "t1_oomfks0", "author": "/u/Sensitive-Role9289", "updated": "2026-05-29T18:47:27+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tr1deo/a_couple_months_ago_i_posted_my_breakdown_of/oomfks0/", "content": "[ Removed by Reddit ]" }, { "id": "t1_ooockel", "author": "/u/cureusdedcat", "updated": "2026-05-30T00:38:17+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tr1deo/a_couple_months_ago_i_posted_my_breakdown_of/ooockel/", "content": "I have an idea for a B2B SAAS product that’s AI-adjacent. I have a prototype that I’m using at work and it does exactly what I need it to do. I have a hunch others would find it useful too.\n Any thoughts on how to move forward?" }, { "id": "t1_ooq40z9", "author": "/u/DonutsnBluebonnets", "updated": "2026-05-30T08:04:06+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tr1deo/a_couple_months_ago_i_posted_my_breakdown_of/ooq40z9/", "content": "Read $100M offers - it’s free on his website. It’ll help you figure out how to turn it into an offer and launch it" }, { "id": "t1_oos9o3h", "author": "/u/DaddyJohnnyTheFudgey", "updated": "2026-05-30T16:19:53+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tr1deo/a_couple_months_ago_i_posted_my_breakdown_of/oos9o3h/", "content": "This entire subreddit is so fucking cringe. Consistently selling slop to get a slight chunk of Capitalist victory all while still taking that money from others. They would spend it regardless, but you don't have to be the one selling garbage drop shipped products and all the other terrible sources I've seen here." }, { "id": "t1_ootkwoh", "author": "/u/Existing-Ice221", "updated": "2026-05-30T20:07:12+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tr1deo/a_couple_months_ago_i_posted_my_breakdown_of/ootkwoh/", "content": "honestly you're not wrong about the dropshipped garbage, thats half why i wrote the post. theres a difference between selling people junk and helping them build something actually useful tho. but yeah a lot of this space is slop, cant argue that" }, { "id": "t1_opgw6nv", "author": "/u/ND_Therapisty", "updated": "2026-06-03T06:59:25+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tr1deo/a_couple_months_ago_i_posted_my_breakdown_of/opgw6nv/", "content": "Become a coach! Sounds like that’s what you’re doing anyways…" } ] }, { "source": "r/passive_income top month", "id": "t3_1to82nj", "title": "i sent 100 AI websites to local business owners to see if I could make money: here are the results", "author": "/u/lazarbetterrun", "updated": "2026-05-26T14:08:09+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1to82nj/i_sent_100_ai_websites_to_local_business_owners/", "content": "I'm in credit card debt and don't have any income at the moment. With my card maxed out, I was kind of frantic to figure something out to make money before groceries ran.\n So I decided to try a passive income hustle I saw on reddit: selling AI websites to a local business niche. I set the goal of 100 website lead magnets to start which took me four full days.\n I chose roofers and eight of the roofing owners I contacted responded (out of the 100).\n Four of those turned into zoom calls, and two of them bought my retainer for $299 per month. I decided to not charge an upfront fee. I'm not worried about them canceling because if they do, I take down their website.\n Those first 2 customers were over a month ago. Here's my refined process after having sent another ~1,000 - 1,500 emails in the past few weeks:\n - Claude code by far makes the most impressive websites and has the most flexibility\n - I give it screenshots of roofing websites I think look amazing, which I find on Webflow's made-in-webflow collection. You can also just search for site inspo, but I found it surprisingly hard to find good roofing websites.\n - I make a screen recording video of the roofer's new website I just made for them, with my camera in the bottom left using Loom. In the 2 minute video I highlight the difference between their current site (if they have one) and the beautiful one right in front of them that could be theirs. I talk only in outcomes and language they would understand.\n - I do this lead magnet for every cold email. Although I've seen from friends who are now doing this too, that depending on the local business niche you choose, it's sometimes better to ask a genuine question about the business like as if you were a customer, wait for a response, and then send the loom video.\n - You can scroll through google maps to find roofers and look at each website but I realized the emails were all generic info@ or contact@ so no wonder they were getting ignored. I use Leadburnr to find these local businesses and their owner's email\n - I make it easy to book a zoom call with me and after I close them I send an invoice with Stripe that charges them automatically every month. Also gives you a nice dashboard you can stare at for hours if you're like me.\n Given my financial situation a month ago and my general lack of self belief this side hustle has been literally transformative in so many ways. Im definitely not rich, but I can focus on getting a job now without worrying too much about money.\n And it proves that you don't have to be the entrepreneurial type, which I'm definitely not, to make some passive income. You just need to take advantage of the right tools (AI), and commit to trying it for a period of time.\n submitted by /u/lazarbetterrun\n [link] [comments]", "contentHtml": "

I'm in credit card debt and don't have any income at the moment. With my card maxed out, I was kind of frantic to figure something out to make money before groceries ran.

So I decided to try a passive income hustle I saw on reddit: selling AI websites to a local business niche. I set the goal of 100 website lead magnets to start which took me four full days.

I chose roofers and eight of the roofing owners I contacted responded (out of the 100).

Four of those turned into zoom calls, and two of them bought my retainer for $299 per month. I decided to not charge an upfront fee. I'm not worried about them canceling because if they do, I take down their website.

Those first 2 customers were over a month ago. Here's my refined process after having sent another ~1,000 - 1,500 emails in the past few weeks:

- Claude code by far makes the most impressive websites and has the most flexibility

- I give it screenshots of roofing websites I think look amazing, which I find on Webflow's made-in-webflow collection. You can also just search for site inspo, but I found it surprisingly hard to find good roofing websites.

- I make a screen recording video of the roofer's new website I just made for them, with my camera in the bottom left using Loom. In the 2 minute video I highlight the difference between their current site (if they have one) and the beautiful one right in front of them that could be theirs. I talk only in outcomes and language they would understand.

- I do this lead magnet for every cold email. Although I've seen from friends who are now doing this too, that depending on the local business niche you choose, it's sometimes better to ask a genuine question about the business like as if you were a customer, wait for a response, and then send the loom video.

- You can scroll through google maps to find roofers and look at each website but I realized the emails were all generic info@ or contact@ so no wonder they were getting ignored. I use Leadburnr to find these local businesses and their owner's email

- I make it easy to book a zoom call with me and after I close them I send an invoice with Stripe that charges them automatically every month. Also gives you a nice dashboard you can stare at for hours if you're like me.

Given my financial situation a month ago and my general lack of self belief this side hustle has been literally transformative in so many ways. Im definitely not rich, but I can focus on getting a job now without worrying too much about money.

And it proves that you don't have to be the entrepreneurial type, which I'm definitely not, to make some passive income. You just need to take advantage of the right tools (AI), and commit to trying it for a period of time.

submitted by /u/lazarbetterrun
[link] [comments]", "comments": [ { "id": "t1_onz4zit", "author": "/u/AutoModerator", "updated": "2026-05-26T14:08:10+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1to82nj/i_sent_100_ai_websites_to_local_business_owners/onz4zit/", "content": "Check out the Community Highlights for current and future Mod Vetted opportunities and Newsletter Episodes.\n Please do due diligence on any crypto opportunity. A simple google search could save you a fortune.\n I am a bot, and this action was performed automatically. Please contact the moderators of this subreddit if you have any questions or concerns." }, { "id": "t1_onzcfci", "author": "/u/stfudog", "updated": "2026-05-26T14:43:05+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1to82nj/i_sent_100_ai_websites_to_local_business_owners/onzcfci/", "content": "299 pm, lol. Yeah right" }, { "id": "t1_oo0a8n4", "author": "/u/breich", "updated": "2026-05-26T17:13:40+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1to82nj/i_sent_100_ai_websites_to_local_business_owners/oo0a8n4/", "content": "This isn't ridiculous if he's essentially baking the cost of the initial build into a monthly recurring transaction. Lots of freelancers and agencies have moved to this model. That said the rest of the description of what he's offering makes me incredibly uneasy about whether he's delivering something worth the cost." }, { "id": "t1_oo0e9ph", "author": "/u/elite_bender", "updated": "2026-05-26T17:31:16+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1to82nj/i_sent_100_ai_websites_to_local_business_owners/oo0e9ph/", "content": "I was paying $500/mo for ongoing management with my last web designer. Became unpalatable when I realized how little she was doing and cancelled after the first year. Web design was a lot more cumbersome pre AI and there’s certainly delta that exists currently between old and new where $299 is completely reasonable, especially without up front design cost. As a business owner I wouldn’t agree unless I owned the code after a year or two, but I’m sure others aren’t savvy enough to understand what to ask for." }, { "id": "t1_oo8g9a9", "author": "/u/GutterGucciGem", "updated": "2026-05-27T19:37:52+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1to82nj/i_sent_100_ai_websites_to_local_business_owners/oo8g9a9/", "content": "Holy moly it was! I haven’t used much of the newest adobe photoshop but I’m wanting to learn as I had self taught html around the birth of the internet and dipped into web and graphic design at like 16 yrs old. did a lot of trial and error, made mistakes, but ultimately learned from those and did reading research practice a lot (having insomnia as a kid worked out in that sense. Not in my 40’s with all I seem and done lol) and got better over those years I had drive for it. I was not the best but i made progress. Livejournal for anyone who even remembers it, them using my frame-by-frame made sets of bouncing kitty heads to express one’s mood in posts was my ride on cloud9, at my age. And short lived. * rambling tangent warning - you’ve been warned LOL * *\n As was having one of the few (non nude) webcams that every 10-20 seconds automatically ftp’d to a site page that auto refreshed for viewers. Now we all have “go live” buttons. For me my site esp interacting parts like a forum I made or the cam and emails I got was a “follow my life” kind of way to express myself in photography and writing with extras buying a membership pass. as I found out later in life I’m on the spectrum and it picked up well more so due to interest of introverts and voyeurs back then. Smaller fry than compared to like, Anacam or Jennycam but I way to be seen and heard but in control of disappearing if I got uncomfortable or tensed up (ultimately didn’t help once I found out the autism thing, it stalled my learning any social skills even more) I rarely get a reply if interested in a design job these days but I also don’t advertise well for myself (learning though for networking is a primary necessary skill to build a business or website or following etc. I just want it to be genuine) or build an updated portfolio. I love doing so for others and spreading word of someone doing hard work at what they love or that helps others to have not a greedy expectation met - but to live the way they deserve and earned to, at the least to support themselves to support their loved ones and to not live in a fear I understand well, fear of losing a place to live, lose safety and security. To live off of art I would have to have better people and social skills as someone on the spectrum with complex ptsd. It’s more of a hopefulness to help and a hobby. Or like painting, therapeutic for me and if the art or writings help someone that’s the payoff. I still want to publish a few small writings before I die even if only one copy sells or they reach the target audience for free.\n To know an artist took an hr or a month to place their authentic story or emotions into a work of art, cannot sell a single piece of their work as a primary job, but that someone who not only may not even have a passion for art but has passion for currency and has figured out how to get an artificial technological way to make the money they want from people quicker and more so than the driven original artist, can be very disheartening and infuriating I imagine. For me it redirected my purpose which I’m grateful for but still not but in the early stages of.\n Sorry this and my other reply to this struck up memories - I at least wanted to let it flow to copy and paste in my personal notes. So it won’t be taken personal if no one reads this or will also be nothing personal or negative if I delete it. lol" }, { "id": "t1_onzt4q5", "author": "/u/mrphoneface", "updated": "2026-05-26T15:58:08+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1to82nj/i_sent_100_ai_websites_to_local_business_owners/onzt4q5/", "content": "I 100% charge 2 roofing's companies this much. They don't want to think about the website and want someone to call for updates and tech support." }, { "id": "t1_oo0wo2d", "author": "/u/SlothSushii", "updated": "2026-05-26T18:52:41+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1to82nj/i_sent_100_ai_websites_to_local_business_owners/oo0wo2d/", "content": "Uh oh, someone is still stuck on Monopoly money! $299/month is a great price for everyone involved .." }, { "id": "t1_oo4pk1t", "author": "/u/learning18", "updated": "2026-05-27T07:51:21+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1to82nj/i_sent_100_ai_websites_to_local_business_owners/oo4pk1t/", "content": "for real. you can go up to 500-1500 depending on what other extra services you offer." }, { "id": "t1_onzk20a", "author": "/u/dht20", "updated": "2026-05-26T15:17:57+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1to82nj/i_sent_100_ai_websites_to_local_business_owners/onzk20a/", "content": "For people with high paying project (like roofing he mentioned) It's good, they don't need to manage and dive into technical bullshit they don't like.\n If website that look very good can give them more jobs/projects, it's nice deal." }, { "id": "t1_oo6pkao", "author": "/u/Havoc302", "updated": "2026-05-27T15:08:33+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1to82nj/i_sent_100_ai_websites_to_local_business_owners/oo6pkao/", "content": "That's pretty cheap actually for a managed website." }, { "id": "t1_oob9qq8", "author": "/u/Fit-Presentation-422", "updated": "2026-05-28T04:46:53+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1to82nj/i_sent_100_ai_websites_to_local_business_owners/oob9qq8/", "content": "what goes into managing a site realistically" }, { "id": "t1_oobcr1i", "author": "/u/Havoc302", "updated": "2026-05-28T05:08:39+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1to82nj/i_sent_100_ai_websites_to_local_business_owners/oobcr1i/", "content": "Beyond the initial setup? Mostly making sure modules are up-to-date if it's WordPress. If you're using another type of site it really depends on quite a few things. May need to update code if vulnerabilities are found in packages you're using.\n A lot of these deals also include X amount of hours a month of support / work on the site, like if they want to publish blogs, update pricing, add products, etc.\n Actually very easy to do a lot of that stuff yourself if you're even the slightest bit tech savvy but a lot of tradesmen aren't and would rather pay someone to manage it." }, { "id": "t1_oocqad5", "author": "/u/Mysterious-Park4197", "updated": "2026-05-28T11:37:49+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1to82nj/i_sent_100_ai_websites_to_local_business_owners/oocqad5/", "content": "I would expect some amount of SEO work also for that monthly fee" }, { "id": "t1_oocubda", "author": "/u/Havoc302", "updated": "2026-05-28T12:02:10+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1to82nj/i_sent_100_ai_websites_to_local_business_owners/oocubda/", "content": "Yeah I didn't even think of that. I do IT Infrastructure. So I'm used to maintaining servers and systems that run websites but I'm not a web designer or marketing person." }, { "id": "t1_oo2jt6v", "author": "/u/Effective_Basil8056", "updated": "2026-05-26T23:38:00+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1to82nj/i_sent_100_ai_websites_to_local_business_owners/oo2jt6v/", "content": "I used to pay that until I made my own" }, { "id": "t1_oo1jswc", "author": "/u/lovebes", "updated": "2026-05-26T20:37:27+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1to82nj/i_sent_100_ai_websites_to_local_business_owners/oo1jswc/", "content": "I know. So if they don't pay you close down the website? That is not realistic" }, { "id": "t1_oo5agvn", "author": "/u/TheCraneBoys", "updated": "2026-05-27T10:42:40+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1to82nj/i_sent_100_ai_websites_to_local_business_owners/oo5agvn/", "content": "That's how services work. You stop paying, you no longer get the service." }, { "id": "t1_onzwcug", "author": "/u/SuccessfulDrawing844", "updated": "2026-05-26T16:12:34+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1to82nj/i_sent_100_ai_websites_to_local_business_owners/onzwcug/", "content": "Sounds like an AI post" }, { "id": "t1_oo0gz60", "author": "/u/Witherino", "updated": "2026-05-26T17:43:03+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1to82nj/i_sent_100_ai_websites_to_local_business_owners/oo0gz60/", "content": "I mean they proudly use AI in their website building, so i wouldn't trust them to post anything else without its help" }, { "id": "t1_oo5bztj", "author": "/u/SlothSushii", "updated": "2026-05-27T10:53:08+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1to82nj/i_sent_100_ai_websites_to_local_business_owners/oo5bztj/", "content": "Even still though, can you fault them? There’s tools MADE to do this and advertised, if someone doesn’t wanna pay it, learn to do it themselves. Innovation my friends. Every job is something someone else doesn’t want to do, so they pay another person to do it. Who cares how it’s made. If customers are happy and OP can make some money, good on them. Good luck OP, I hope your business thrives." }, { "id": "t1_oo66c34", "author": "/u/Witherino", "updated": "2026-05-27T13:40:49+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1to82nj/i_sent_100_ai_websites_to_local_business_owners/oo66c34/", "content": "...yes. I can fault them for being too lazy to write 2 paragraphs with their own hands." }, { "id": "t1_oo77v37", "author": "/u/SlothSushii", "updated": "2026-05-27T16:27:25+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1to82nj/i_sent_100_ai_websites_to_local_business_owners/oo77v37/", "content": "I meant the website building lol yeah the post is lazy if it is AI" }, { "id": "t1_oo3ulx5", "author": "/u/AussieAlexSummers", "updated": "2026-05-27T03:57:30+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1to82nj/i_sent_100_ai_websites_to_local_business_owners/oo3ulx5/", "content": "I swear I saw a version of this post about 2 or so months ago." }, { "id": "t1_onzrme2", "author": "/u/Sanjomo", "updated": "2026-05-26T15:51:32+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1to82nj/i_sent_100_ai_websites_to_local_business_owners/onzrme2/", "content": "4 days to find leads.\n 1500 emails sent out.\n Videos made of each website you developed.\n 100 contacts.\n 8 cold leads out of 100.\n 4 warm leads turned to zoom calls.\n 2 turned to customers.\n Now you are managing their site every month.\n Tell me. How the fuck is this passive!?\n Congrats on your two clients, maybe you can spin it into more (at what you’re charging I doubt it) but this is a full time job that only gets to be more work as you get more clients because by your own admission this isn’t ’turn key’ you’re managing their sites." }, { "id": "t1_oo08agr", "author": "/u/lazarbetterrun", "updated": "2026-05-26T17:05:09+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1to82nj/i_sent_100_ai_websites_to_local_business_owners/oo08agr/", "content": "The point is the retainer. Once a client is closed, maintenance and updates are negligible (so far in my experience) and so it becomes passive monthly revenue.\n And for all the work it takes to get there, well duh. Does anybody expect to just magically be able to create passive income? Like theres this expectation on this subreddit that passive income = free money. You need to work to get the passive income going.\n Thank you for the congratulations! I'm going to try to upsell later on marketing or seo." }, { "id": "t1_oo0urd5", "author": "/u/FailedLabotomy69", "updated": "2026-05-26T18:44:11+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1to82nj/i_sent_100_ai_websites_to_local_business_owners/oo0urd5/", "content": "Thank you bro damn, all these people on here saying how is this passive?? All passive income requires hard work to set up, people are lazy or just don't understand how life works. I also don't think your og post is ai, it's so easy to tell. You didn't even hit us with "its not X, its Y..." good job man keep it up!" }, { "id": "t1_oo1f3gv", "author": "/u/lazarbetterrun", "updated": "2026-05-26T20:16:09+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1to82nj/i_sent_100_ai_websites_to_local_business_owners/oo1f3gv/", "content": "I know its hilarious honestly. Thank you!" }, { "id": "t1_oo2pf4g", "author": "/u/Teh-Jawbrkr", "updated": "2026-05-27T00:08:20+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1to82nj/i_sent_100_ai_websites_to_local_business_owners/oo2pf4g/", "content": "So, you just set up a retainer, do the work to get them to sign, then nothing after that and the money just comes in month after month. No communication, no time explaining any strategies, or proposed changes, never-the-less ongoing implementation from updates. Just cash money passively flowing in with no effort even 12 months later with a super happy client… come on, bro, that’s not passive.\n Edit: thanks for the downvotes. As someone with over 15 years in this industry, I assure you what was described by OP is a career, or serious hustle, it’s a very ACTIVE job." }, { "id": "t1_oo3gcel", "author": "/u/Beneficial_Sprite", "updated": "2026-05-27T02:34:08+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1to82nj/i_sent_100_ai_websites_to_local_business_owners/oo3gcel/", "content": "Please tell me what is completely passive?" }, { "id": "t1_oo8dxq3", "author": "/u/throwaway1211135", "updated": "2026-05-27T19:27:32+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1to82nj/i_sent_100_ai_websites_to_local_business_owners/oo8dxq3/", "content": "Collecting interest on a high yield savings account is completely passive.\n You make money from leaving your money parked in the bank. Thats about as passive as it gets." }, { "id": "t1_ooe4eay", "author": "/u/FireDogCLS", "updated": "2026-05-28T15:42:45+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1to82nj/i_sent_100_ai_websites_to_local_business_owners/ooe4eay/", "content": "¿Que sería de "alto rendimiento"? Ese término no existe. Y lo que tu dices es bien parecido a lo que hace el creador del post. El trabaja y crea su negocio un tiempo x. Tu trabajas al buscar una cuenta de ahorro que, según tus ingresos o ahorro, te de una buena rentabilidad anual/mensual y que sea segura. Luego, tienes que ir viendo a lo largo del tiempo, si tu cuenta de ahorro cubre la inflación, si han subido los precios, etc. Si es así, tienes que gestionar tu cuenta para mover tu dinero a otra cuenta, segura y que cumpla con tus requisitos.\n El del post, solo debe atender un par de mensajes y solucionar uno que otro bug. Ya que me imagino por lo descrito en el post, que deben ser páginas muy simples, pero que cumplen su función y tienen un valor agregado para los dueños de empresas, que no debe requerir tanto tiempo de gestión.\n Al no tener un trabajo de muchas horas, ni todos los días, que te genera una buena rentabilidad haciendo mínimas gestiones (al igual que las inversiones), se puede considerar que es un ingreso pasivo. Lo de "no hagas nada, trabaja 1 hora y consigue rentabilidades estratosfericas" no existe." }, { "id": "t1_oooywxh", "author": "/u/Teh-Jawbrkr", "updated": "2026-05-30T02:50:40+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1to82nj/i_sent_100_ai_websites_to_local_business_owners/oooywxh/", "content": "It’s an ACTIVE job. I have over 15 years in the industry. Nothing you’ve mentioned is passive." }, { "id": "t1_oooz76t", "author": "/u/Teh-Jawbrkr", "updated": "2026-05-30T02:52:29+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1to82nj/i_sent_100_ai_websites_to_local_business_owners/oooz76t/", "content": "You don’t understand the industry. This isn’t “bash on dreams”. I have years of experience “doing websites”. There’s nothing passive about it." }, { "id": "t1_oo0gq5y", "author": "/u/DaRk_BoMbEr_", "updated": "2026-05-26T17:41:57+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1to82nj/i_sent_100_ai_websites_to_local_business_owners/oo0gq5y/", "content": "Keep doing what youre doing, making money is hard enough with the current job market, if youve found something that works and you can build on it, no one can tell you whats right or wrong, its your life at the end of the day, if you can make money & build up networks using "ai slop" so be it." }, { "id": "t1_oo7u83f", "author": "/u/Flubert_Harnsworth", "updated": "2026-05-27T18:01:52+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1to82nj/i_sent_100_ai_websites_to_local_business_owners/oo7u83f/", "content": "Sounds great to me, I think 299/month for website maintenance is about as passive as you could reasonably expect." }, { "id": "t1_oo8jen1", "author": "/u/GutterGucciGem", "updated": "2026-05-27T19:51:45+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1to82nj/i_sent_100_ai_websites_to_local_business_owners/oo8jen1/", "content": "I considered passive income more like majority investments. People who gave jobs they work hard at that gives them the opportunity to invest whatever it is y’all financially invest in with hopes it thrives and pays back more than the initial investment - stocks, properties, etc. I’m looking up the actual definition as I never have but ….\n Passive income is money earned with minimal ongoing effort. While it often requires an upfront investment of time, money, or both, the goal is to create a steady revenue stream that does not require you to trade your daily labor for a paycheck.\n U.S. Bank +2 Common examples of passive income include: Investments: Earning interest from high-yield savings accounts or receiving dividends from stocks. Real Estate: Collecting rent from properties you own, or investing in Real Estate Investment Trusts (REITs). Digital Assets: Earning royalties from selling e-books, online courses, or licensing intellectual property.\n As the saying goes “it takes money to make (that kind of) money”….more often than not. That kind of money around in my area here I’ve heard being called called “stupid money”…\n It’d be used to pay for my funeral and make people show up at that, as someone like me doesn’t need to get ahold of that kind of money. I hate money and it’s actual stupid worth in the grand scheme of things, however I don’t particularly like being homeless so I strive for comfortable(safe) living I won’t stay awake worrying I’ll lose and providing for people I love and giving back whenever at all possible because people gave to and helped me. I need to try to remember this because I’ll neglect my own self or risk what I worked hard for with my soulmate to give to someone due to my empathy learning to balance as well.\n Speaking of that, I spent the afternoon day writing branching off to things I remembered and that hasn’t happened in a long time, writing flow of multiple thoughts and stories/memories. So if anything OP and many who replied - thanks for the creative spark. Now let’s not have me burn the whole thread down, oh jeez…." }, { "id": "t1_onzz0ju", "author": "/u/L3yline", "updated": "2026-05-26T16:24:23+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1to82nj/i_sent_100_ai_websites_to_local_business_owners/onzz0ju/", "content": "Cause this post is most likely written by an Ai to get more people to try and do it too. Ive seen the Ai slop. I'd rather spent the extra 10 minutes with square space or any of those "diy website" services to make a website on whatever comission/selling it to a business over letting an Ai hallucinate slop" }, { "id": "t1_oo7w0bs", "author": "/u/moscowramada", "updated": "2026-05-27T18:09:28+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1to82nj/i_sent_100_ai_websites_to_local_business_owners/oo7w0bs/", "content": "The irony here is that, for the amount of work and the resulting profit, this is still like 10x more 'passive' than the average passive income job." }, { "id": "t1_oo8v58d", "author": "/u/Sanjomo", "updated": "2026-05-27T20:44:29+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1to82nj/i_sent_100_ai_websites_to_local_business_owners/oo8v58d/", "content": "lol. I don’t think passive means what you thinking does. What OP is describing is a job, it’s not at all passive… and the work compounds as he works to get more clients while maintaining the accounts he already has." }, { "id": "t1_oo3f9bd", "author": "/u/TouchingWood", "updated": "2026-05-27T02:28:00+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1to82nj/i_sent_100_ai_websites_to_local_business_owners/oo3f9bd/", "content": "Yeah, imagine the dozens of hours it takes monthly to manage a single static website. I just don't know how OP can keep up with such a demanding task. lol" }, { "id": "t1_onzbpmq", "author": "/u/Fluid-Salary-6467", "updated": "2026-05-26T14:39:45+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1to82nj/i_sent_100_ai_websites_to_local_business_owners/onzbpmq/", "content": "Who's paying 299 a month for a website? Maybe £29" }, { "id": "t1_oo0c09y", "author": "/u/baggsie_42", "updated": "2026-05-26T17:21:23+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1to82nj/i_sent_100_ai_websites_to_local_business_owners/oo0c09y/", "content": "I’ve worked for agencies where they have 100s of customers pay this or more a month. However the sales department was 2x the combined size of all other departments (development, design, project management and HR)" }, { "id": "t1_oo3fc1j", "author": "/u/TouchingWood", "updated": "2026-05-27T02:28:26+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1to82nj/i_sent_100_ai_websites_to_local_business_owners/oo3fc1j/", "content": "Honestly, these guys complaining about price are really outing themselves." }, { "id": "t1_oo1ac2i", "author": "/u/HerroPhish", "updated": "2026-05-26T19:54:30+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1to82nj/i_sent_100_ai_websites_to_local_business_owners/oo1ac2i/", "content": "They’re not paying upfront for the site." }, { "id": "t1_oo764q3", "author": "/u/Curious-Grocery-2318", "updated": "2026-05-27T16:19:56+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1to82nj/i_sent_100_ai_websites_to_local_business_owners/oo764q3/", "content": "Depending on the business, many can wipe their a$$ with $299" }, { "id": "t1_oobzzbi", "author": "/u/Sanjomo", "updated": "2026-05-28T08:16:50+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1to82nj/i_sent_100_ai_websites_to_local_business_owners/oobzzbi/", "content": "Yeah. A ‘mom and pop’ roofing company that runs on razor thin profit margins to begin with are not one them." }, { "id": "t1_oobgbzg", "author": "/u/roheezy", "updated": "2026-05-28T05:35:45+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1to82nj/i_sent_100_ai_websites_to_local_business_owners/oobgbzg/", "content": "Clearly not you lol - go back to your retail job m8" }, { "id": "t1_onzhcjl", "author": "/u/lazarbetterrun", "updated": "2026-05-26T15:05:37+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1to82nj/i_sent_100_ai_websites_to_local_business_owners/onzhcjl/", "content": "Yeah for a restaurant, or a coffee shop. These roofers pull in 1M+ per year, and so actually they are much more likely to agree to the higher price point because it signals quality and trust. Why would they pay for a shitty 29/m site? To them, 299 is nothing" }, { "id": "t1_onzp47n", "author": "/u/ramenmoodles", "updated": "2026-05-26T15:40:26+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1to82nj/i_sent_100_ai_websites_to_local_business_owners/onzp47n/", "content": "i mean you’re selling ai slop, not a premium product. theres no reason to hire that for that price point unless they’re just clueless" }, { "id": "t1_onzn8h8", "author": "/u/Sanjomo", "updated": "2026-05-26T15:32:06+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1to82nj/i_sent_100_ai_websites_to_local_business_owners/onzn8h8/", "content": "At that price they could hire a professional designer and own the site." }, { "id": "t1_oo42k32", "author": "/u/Undeity", "updated": "2026-05-27T04:50:57+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1to82nj/i_sent_100_ai_websites_to_local_business_owners/oo42k32/", "content": "Then they'd either need someone to manage it anyways, or do it themselves. Services like this are intended as a continued convenience as much as anything.\n Also frankly, people tend to give more weight to the offer in front of them, than some theoretical better offer from who knows where (assuming they consider it worth giving any weight to in the first place, at least)." }, { "id": "t1_oo71bnv", "author": "/u/Sanjomo", "updated": "2026-05-27T15:59:03+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1to82nj/i_sent_100_ai_websites_to_local_business_owners/oo71bnv/", "content": "You don’t need anyone to manage a landing page. And that’s all a ‘mom n pop’ roofing company needs. A page that says they’re bonded and insured, an info/quote form and a picture or two.\n There’s definitely a market to service small local businesses but a $300 a month charge to rent a website for business that are already operating on razor thin margins seems like a bad model." }, { "id": "t1_oobgjea", "author": "/u/roheezy", "updated": "2026-05-28T05:37:23+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1to82nj/i_sent_100_ai_websites_to_local_business_owners/oobgjea/", "content": "Clueless." }, { "id": "t1_onzx2yk", "author": "/u/TheFashionColdWars", "updated": "2026-05-26T16:15:47+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1to82nj/i_sent_100_ai_websites_to_local_business_owners/onzx2yk/", "content": "This feels like a very poor response." }, { "id": "t1_onzt7ig", "author": "/u/Chomp3y", "updated": "2026-05-26T15:58:29+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1to82nj/i_sent_100_ai_websites_to_local_business_owners/onzt7ig/", "content": "It signals quality and trust? Your AI slop website is quality? And the trust is that you're doing the work, but you're not, AI is. So you're sending false signals? Weird.\n Why would they pay $29 for a shitty website when they can pay $300 for a shitty AI website? Wow. What a sales pitch." }, { "id": "t1_onztymx", "author": "/u/Hopeful_Ad_52", "updated": "2026-05-26T16:01:50+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1to82nj/i_sent_100_ai_websites_to_local_business_owners/onztymx/", "content": "What you should do now is upset social media or seo services...that you can charge 500-1k a month extra" }, { "id": "t1_oo028v3", "author": "/u/Mission_Tower_9593", "updated": "2026-05-26T16:38:59+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1to82nj/i_sent_100_ai_websites_to_local_business_owners/oo028v3/", "content": "Why should anyone pay 299/mo for shitty AI website? What do you actually know and do about "quality signals" and building "trust" that you mentioned???\n Will wait for your response.." }, { "id": "t1_onzrknl", "author": "/u/unfinishedtoast3", "updated": "2026-05-26T15:51:19+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1to82nj/i_sent_100_ai_websites_to_local_business_owners/onzrknl/", "content": "You're at an 8% return contact rate.\n Sounds like a 2% closure rate\n A successful saler should be shooting for a 10% conversion rate. Anything less than that is costing you more time than you're making money.\n At 2%, it's more profitable to get a minimum wage job, you'll average more money per hour." }, { "id": "t1_onzzrm6", "author": "/u/MoonBase34", "updated": "2026-05-26T16:27:47+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1to82nj/i_sent_100_ai_websites_to_local_business_owners/onzzrm6/", "content": "well no. you’ve just pulled the 10% figure out your backside, that’s just an arbitrary number, what’s considered a successful conversion is obviously going to differ by industry etc." }, { "id": "t1_oo29cnu", "author": "/u/sharkbait-oo-haha", "updated": "2026-05-26T22:42:14+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1to82nj/i_sent_100_ai_websites_to_local_business_owners/oo29cnu/", "content": "Also going to differ by contact method.\n 2% on a spam email campaign is incredible." }, { "id": "t1_oo17erg", "author": "/u/broccoli-duck", "updated": "2026-05-26T19:41:07+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1to82nj/i_sent_100_ai_websites_to_local_business_owners/oo17erg/", "content": "https://preview.redd.it/l9l1r3ixbj3h1.jpeg?width=960&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=13fda30fa8a7c348a161da804eaec945d250f19c" }, { "id": "t1_oo01pxx", "author": "/u/Mission_Tower_9593", "updated": "2026-05-26T16:36:37+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1to82nj/i_sent_100_ai_websites_to_local_business_owners/oo01pxx/", "content": "if they do, I take down their website.\n This is exactly why business owners should own their own assets. Website isnt something that you rent out from some cheapster. Also, most of the times theres absolutely no need to pay monthly charges in the name of "TeCh SupPorT"" }, { "id": "t1_oo2v9fl", "author": "/u/Swimming-Farmer6020", "updated": "2026-05-27T00:40:25+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1to82nj/i_sent_100_ai_websites_to_local_business_owners/oo2v9fl/", "content": "Whew yeah that is scummy." }, { "id": "t1_oo31xtx", "author": "/u/service2saas", "updated": "2026-05-27T01:16:15+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1to82nj/i_sent_100_ai_websites_to_local_business_owners/oo31xtx/", "content": "They don’t own their own assets and are paying for it over time rather than up front, so that’s really his only recourse if they don’t pay, especially with nothing down…not sure why stiffing a guy and him taking the site down for someone who doesn’t pay is scummy…if you don’t pay your hosting bill your host isn’t going to leave your site up out of the kindness of their heart." }, { "id": "t1_oo3hney", "author": "/u/Mission_Tower_9593", "updated": "2026-05-27T02:41:02+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1to82nj/i_sent_100_ai_websites_to_local_business_owners/oo3hney/", "content": "Websites aren't something you need to pay for monthly or rent off some web designer or agency, even if they are custom built. They are your own assets and should be controlled by the business, not some third party lunatic. You'd be amazed how many agencies / freelancers who came across this model hold the data and assets hostage when you want to cancel or transfer. It's a total disaster... As for the hosting comparison you made, you rent those servers because you don't need to buy the whole infrastructure. You just rent at a fair and transparent price and can transfer to whoever or wherever you want with transparency. You can't compare that analogy to the daylight robbery happening here.." }, { "id": "t1_oo4geew", "author": "/u/indigo1027", "updated": "2026-05-27T06:35:48+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1to82nj/i_sent_100_ai_websites_to_local_business_owners/oo4geew/", "content": "A roofing company and a website is literally an apples to oranges comparison.\n Unlike OP, I don't charge monthly for website - it's all upfront, unless they wanted to do monthly instead. I charge by the year; which includes purchasing/renewing the domain, hosting, making the website and maintenance. If they have any changes they want done, I do it. They send me photos or new services to add, etc., I do it. Everything I set up is "so simple a caveman can do it" so if they want to take over - they can. But they don't want to.\n I don't do cold calling like OP, but there IS an entire sect of business owners (especially trades people) that don't want to think about the backend things. They want to focus on doing their craft, and they don't want to think about all the other stuff.\n I set up websites. They also hire me to get them GMB verified, and usually to continue to update it weekly. Or to get all their socials set up, and to do their posts for them. Design business cards and get them printed and delivered. Or make flyers and print them. Get insurance quotes for them. Research information they need, price or source materials. Type out letters. Get work shirts. Help setting up their LLCs. The list goes on and on.\n Just like with anything else, people will pay a premium to not have to do the things they don't want to/can't do , and for convenience. I even ELI5 and break everything down and offer to teach my clients to do the things themselves, and they still would rather just pay me to do it... Because it's one less thing they have to think about. OP could realistically transition if they wanted, and turn all their effort into a full time wfh job offering more backend/admin/office services... The type of clientele they're targeting, are the exact people that want to set it and forget it and don't feel scammed paying for the convenience." }, { "id": "t1_oo4i55e", "author": "/u/Mission_Tower_9593", "updated": "2026-05-27T06:49:38+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1to82nj/i_sent_100_ai_websites_to_local_business_owners/oo4i55e/", "content": "Absolutely no problem with you. And yeah, nothing wrong with businesses outsourcing tech stuff. I was referring to freelancers / agencies that treat clients website as rented and hold it hostage when they try to leave. Or don't even understand basic cause and effect because they just rely on AI or claude for everything." }, { "id": "t1_oo3e9zc", "author": "/u/indigo1027", "updated": "2026-05-27T02:22:33+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1to82nj/i_sent_100_ai_websites_to_local_business_owners/oo3e9zc/", "content": "Some businesses don't want the hassle of thinking about ANY of it, or they don't know/don't want to learn. So they pay someone to make sure everything is up and running, without worrying about renewals or edits or uploads or anything else. It's not scummy if it works for both parties 🤷‍♀️" }, { "id": "t1_oo3sycv", "author": "/u/Mission_Tower_9593", "updated": "2026-05-27T03:47:15+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1to82nj/i_sent_100_ai_websites_to_local_business_owners/oo3sycv/", "content": "Yes it's shady AF. Most of these freelancers hold the website and data hostage when the relationship goes bad or the business wants to transfer.\n Most agencies and freelancers target home based business owners not just for their high ticket prices, but also because they aren't tech savvy or very aware of how important it is to keep your assets under your own control. Do these freelancers or agencies educate them on that part? They won't, because how else would they add markup to hosting and charge monthly for 💩\n And what's so complicated about maintaining a website in the name of "maintenance" other than using jargon to confuse them and make it sound super difficult? Most of the time, any SEO or marketing agency handling the account can take care of the basic stuff. If it's beyond them, there are always options to hire someone for a one off task..." }, { "id": "t1_oo3t9oq", "author": "/u/MaydayTre", "updated": "2026-05-27T03:49:09+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1to82nj/i_sent_100_ai_websites_to_local_business_owners/oo3t9oq/", "content": "People act like this is some insane concept.. The same roofing company makes money by the same principle. Are you going to learn how to renovate your roof, do contracting work? Or are you just going to hire a professional. The people here questioning this principle really make me question their rationale." }, { "id": "t1_oo47szi", "author": "/u/Mission_Tower_9593", "updated": "2026-05-27T05:29:10+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1to82nj/i_sent_100_ai_websites_to_local_business_owners/oo47szi/", "content": "The roofing company repairing or replacing your roof won't charge you monthly for absolutely nothing with zero ownership at the end. They give you a transparent quote for their scope of work, charge money, do the job, and off they go. Imagine if they started doing that, hiding their terms of service, changing them whenever they like, holding you hostage, and using jargon just because you aren't savvy enough. Would you be sane enough to still go with them? Anyone making such comparisons clearly doesn't understand business beyond surface level, let alone ethics, period." }, { "id": "t1_onzftoq", "author": "/u/Sanjomo", "updated": "2026-05-26T14:58:36+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1to82nj/i_sent_100_ai_websites_to_local_business_owners/onzftoq/", "content": "lol. Sure. In what world!? That’s $3588 a year to rent a website design." }, { "id": "t1_onzi1ql", "author": "/u/lazarbetterrun", "updated": "2026-05-26T15:08:49+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1to82nj/i_sent_100_ai_websites_to_local_business_owners/onzi1ql/", "content": "I'll send my stripe if you want the inspiration.\n But believing this is why people get stuck and cant make any passive income, or if they do its way too little (because they are underpricing themselves). Its a lack of belief. You are the one who wouldn't pay 299. Not the roofing owner\n Also why you target contractors, because they make 1M+ per year and so this is actually the preferable price point." }, { "id": "t1_onzmqwr", "author": "/u/Sanjomo", "updated": "2026-05-26T15:29:55+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1to82nj/i_sent_100_ai_websites_to_local_business_owners/onzmqwr/", "content": "Anyone can make bullshit claims like you." }, { "id": "t1_oo026np", "author": "/u/lazarbetterrun", "updated": "2026-05-26T16:38:42+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1to82nj/i_sent_100_ai_websites_to_local_business_owners/oo026np/", "content": "What you aren't understanding is that I am not renting a website design.\n I'm selling them more estimates and higher quality inbound leads. I build them a multistep estimate form that keeps the good leads and filters the tire kickers. Thats my main selling prop. This is why I mentioned niching down, so that you can make a compelling offer that isnt just renting an AI site. The site is just the delivery mechanism, not the UVP." }, { "id": "t1_oo0e2yt", "author": "/u/Stashmouth", "updated": "2026-05-26T17:30:25+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1to82nj/i_sent_100_ai_websites_to_local_business_owners/oo0e2yt/", "content": "Unless I misread your post, you're pulling down their site if they decide to stop paying you. How is that not renting?" }, { "id": "t1_oo05mk4", "author": "/u/NoseResponsible3874", "updated": "2026-05-26T16:53:39+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1to82nj/i_sent_100_ai_websites_to_local_business_owners/oo05mk4/", "content": "Lots of bullshit with zero substance. Slop through and through." }, { "id": "t1_oo082f7", "author": "/u/kailfarr", "updated": "2026-05-26T17:04:11+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1to82nj/i_sent_100_ai_websites_to_local_business_owners/oo082f7/", "content": "I have worked for companies that pay over $500 per month for websites. I am always shocked because it is "easy" to build and host your own, but a lot of owners and managers just want the peace of mind of not having to deal with it. I get it, though it seems silly, but keep in mind that a lot of people are not that tech-savvy." }, { "id": "t1_oo0di0u", "author": "/u/NoseResponsible3874", "updated": "2026-05-26T17:27:53+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1to82nj/i_sent_100_ai_websites_to_local_business_owners/oo0di0u/", "content": "You're responding to the wrong person. I don't need to be mansplained to about "tech savviness". I'm criticizing OP's completely bullshit sales pitch and post-hoc justification for what is obviously just slop being passed off as "passive income"." }, { "id": "t1_oo06njv", "author": "/u/Sanjomo", "updated": "2026-05-26T16:58:03+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1to82nj/i_sent_100_ai_websites_to_local_business_owners/oo06njv/", "content": "Well. That’s not what your very badly worded posts says. You’re not offering in bound leads. You’re not doing demand generating or funnel management and NOTHING about this is passive." }, { "id": "t1_oo09ihk", "author": "/u/lazarbetterrun", "updated": "2026-05-26T17:10:30+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1to82nj/i_sent_100_ai_websites_to_local_business_owners/oo09ihk/", "content": "The retainer is almost all passive. Sure you have to work to secure it, but do you expect to just get MRR by doing nothing?\n And for my post, it was a high level overview of my gig I wanted to share. If I went into detail about the offers and everything else I'm being inquired about, the post would be an entire 30 page course." }, { "id": "t1_oo0babc", "author": "/u/Sanjomo", "updated": "2026-05-26T17:18:15+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1to82nj/i_sent_100_ai_websites_to_local_business_owners/oo0babc/", "content": "Dude. Thats not what passive means. If you’re sending out 1500 emails, cold designing sample pages, making videos to show leads, doing Zoom calls to potential customers just to land 2 ‘retainers’ ITs NOT PASSIVE! Now you’re managing two sites to keep that retainer… also not passive.\n NOTHING ABOUT YOUR ‘WORK FLOW’ IS PASSIVE" }, { "id": "t1_oo0jii4", "author": "/u/Cassiopeia299", "updated": "2026-05-26T17:54:06+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1to82nj/i_sent_100_ai_websites_to_local_business_owners/oo0jii4/", "content": "Can you give me the url to one of these websites you sold? Curious what it looks like." }, { "id": "t1_oo00zi2", "author": "/u/eureka123", "updated": "2026-05-26T16:33:18+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1to82nj/i_sent_100_ai_websites_to_local_business_owners/oo00zi2/", "content": "I don't know why you're getting downvoted. This is a quality post. Really appreciate it. Thank you.\n People here don't seem to realize there are people out there with plenty of money, who just want someone that they trust to take care of things.\n I used to do 100K revenue on eBay monthly, selling the exact same products as other people for more money, because I took the time to make incredible ads, treated every customer like gold, and had 100% feedback even after years.\n Yes, they could get the exact same thing cheaper from someone else, but there are people who value their time and lack of issues more than money.\n I've also dabbled with websites and the info you've given in this post is golden. Thank you" }, { "id": "t1_oo05v7l", "author": "/u/lazarbetterrun", "updated": "2026-05-26T16:54:41+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1to82nj/i_sent_100_ai_websites_to_local_business_owners/oo05v7l/", "content": "Thank you for this!! I really dont know why people are responding like this in the comments 😞. I guess thats reddit sometimes though. Congrats on your eBay gig!" }, { "id": "t1_oo1kk0p", "author": "/u/eureka123", "updated": "2026-05-26T20:40:52+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1to82nj/i_sent_100_ai_websites_to_local_business_owners/oo1kk0p/", "content": "Thank you! I made a full-time living on eBay for around 7 years or so. Best wishes" }, { "id": "t1_oo06x2r", "author": "/u/Sanjomo", "updated": "2026-05-26T16:59:10+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1to82nj/i_sent_100_ai_websites_to_local_business_owners/oo06x2r/", "content": "It’s a bullshit post with zero proof of concept and it’s far from passive. Thats why the down votes." }, { "id": "t1_oo33mb1", "author": "/u/See-Fello", "updated": "2026-05-27T01:25:19+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1to82nj/i_sent_100_ai_websites_to_local_business_owners/oo33mb1/", "content": "Call it whatever you want. Passive income, active income, income, upfront work then less work resulting in…income. The point is OP generated revenue from an idea and some sweat equity.\n Is there info in this sub that defines what passive income is?" }, { "id": "t1_oo1kvqw", "author": "/u/eureka123", "updated": "2026-05-26T20:42:20+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1to82nj/i_sent_100_ai_websites_to_local_business_owners/oo1kvqw/", "content": "Definitely not fully passive, but he gives all the tools needed, and how to do it. If you want to try, go for it." }, { "id": "t1_oo6b7mr", "author": "/u/Icandoituknow", "updated": "2026-05-27T14:03:45+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1to82nj/i_sent_100_ai_websites_to_local_business_owners/oo6b7mr/", "content": "I wanna see the stripe for the inspiration" }, { "id": "t1_onzug62", "author": "/u/cinelytica", "updated": "2026-05-26T16:04:02+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1to82nj/i_sent_100_ai_websites_to_local_business_owners/onzug62/", "content": "Posts like this are always bullshit and always an ad. Can the mods please do something about this?" }, { "id": "t1_onzxr9z", "author": "/u/TheStrongHand", "updated": "2026-05-26T16:18:45+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1to82nj/i_sent_100_ai_websites_to_local_business_owners/onzxr9z/", "content": "What is the ad for?" }, { "id": "t1_onzypib", "author": "/u/cinelytica", "updated": "2026-05-26T16:23:01+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1to82nj/i_sent_100_ai_websites_to_local_business_owners/onzypib/", "content": "Webflo. These bots always slip it in as a critical step in their imaginary stories." }, { "id": "t1_onzzpvm", "author": "/u/TheStrongHand", "updated": "2026-05-26T16:27:34+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1to82nj/i_sent_100_ai_websites_to_local_business_owners/onzzpvm/", "content": "Interesting. I didn’t see it as that critical in this post, and there were references to a lot of other tools they used too. But I can see your point, I did kinda register the reference in my head. I guess if it is a bot (which I’m still not fully convinced), that’s a pretty nuanced and subtle ad" }, { "id": "t1_oo12lcx", "author": "/u/gadfly1999", "updated": "2026-05-26T19:19:15+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1to82nj/i_sent_100_ai_websites_to_local_business_owners/oo12lcx/", "content": "More likely leadburnr. Leads are the hard part of this process. They’re just suggesting you have the AI steal a design you like off of webflow" }, { "id": "t1_oo00514", "author": "/u/L3yline", "updated": "2026-05-26T16:29:28+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1to82nj/i_sent_100_ai_websites_to_local_business_owners/oo00514/", "content": "Microslop begging you to just try their crap pretty please" }, { "id": "t1_oo0plo4", "author": "/u/i_hate_this_part_85", "updated": "2026-05-26T18:21:05+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1to82nj/i_sent_100_ai_websites_to_local_business_owners/oo0plo4/", "content": "Leadburnr - their site even has a demo that mentions roofers …" }, { "id": "t1_oo07rzt", "author": "/u/Sanjomo", "updated": "2026-05-26T17:02:54+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1to82nj/i_sent_100_ai_websites_to_local_business_owners/oo07rzt/", "content": "I’ll DM you bro." }, { "id": "t1_onzmlj5", "author": "/u/oursrequin", "updated": "2026-05-26T15:29:16+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1to82nj/i_sent_100_ai_websites_to_local_business_owners/onzmlj5/", "content": "I have a hard time selling anything over 99$ a month and that’s with high quality handmade websites. Idk who the freak is paying 299$ pm for these generated websites but congrats because you literally hit the lottery." }, { "id": "t1_onzra1w", "author": "/u/SurgeFlamingo", "updated": "2026-05-26T15:50:01+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1to82nj/i_sent_100_ai_websites_to_local_business_owners/onzra1w/", "content": "Nobody." }, { "id": "t1_oo000lz", "author": "/u/L3yline", "updated": "2026-05-26T16:28:55+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1to82nj/i_sent_100_ai_websites_to_local_business_owners/oo000lz/", "content": "Literally. "Oh the roofing company makes millions they won't care about spending 300 a month on a website"\n Oh yes they so. My job involves processing and handling quotes for these kinds of companies. Ive had service providers refuse work orders for new work over invocies still within the 30 day contracted terms for 500 bucks. They very much do care about the money.\n The million dollar mom and pop operations don't get to the big piles of cash by pissing away the little things like op is posting about.\n Op could be telling the truth and those 2 companies are actually paying almost 300 for an Ai generated website, but I dont think they'll do it for long once they figure out they can do it elsewhere cheaper" }, { "id": "t1_oo0ebai", "author": "/u/Stashmouth", "updated": "2026-05-26T17:31:28+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1to82nj/i_sent_100_ai_websites_to_local_business_owners/oo0ebai/", "content": "well, 1498 of them do. OP found the two who don't!" }, { "id": "t1_oo0btyj", "author": "/u/Superb_Cellist_8869", "updated": "2026-05-26T17:20:37+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1to82nj/i_sent_100_ai_websites_to_local_business_owners/oo0btyj/", "content": "https://giphy.com/gifs/TXDjPCTNPnGAWJMWC4" }, { "id": "t1_onzryme", "author": "/u/Casper-_-00B", "updated": "2026-05-26T15:53:00+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1to82nj/i_sent_100_ai_websites_to_local_business_owners/onzryme/", "content": "When you build the website who is hosting the sites? Did have security on the site?" }, { "id": "t1_oo08swc", "author": "/u/Sanjomo", "updated": "2026-05-26T17:07:23+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1to82nj/i_sent_100_ai_websites_to_local_business_owners/oo08swc/", "content": "Exactly!\n Who’s paying for hosting?\n Who’s handling domain names?\n Who’s handling the SEO, mailbox services and SSL security?\n What site are they using to host all these 3rd party controlled websites?\n Who’s managing the payouts to the servers and hosting sites." }, { "id": "t1_oo6mlrk", "author": "/u/danielmeyerson", "updated": "2026-05-27T14:55:31+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1to82nj/i_sent_100_ai_websites_to_local_business_owners/oo6mlrk/", "content": "Claude generates static sites, there are 100s of companies that offer unlimited hosting for static sites. Ex - cloudfare, vercel, netlify, github etc..\n Security - there's nothing to hack in a static site. It does not have a database. Ssl is free.\n For email, just set up forwarding." }, { "id": "t1_oo6rsm1", "author": "/u/Sanjomo", "updated": "2026-05-27T15:18:17+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1to82nj/i_sent_100_ai_websites_to_local_business_owners/oo6rsm1/", "content": "But that’s not what OP said. He said “he’s doing funnel management and turning single static page sites into more detailed ones.” Personally i think he’s barking up the wrong tree with the business he’s targeting because their margins are already nitrous thin. $300/$360 a month/year for a static page you don’t own is crazy expensive!! These guys need a landing page and a Google business page." }, { "id": "t1_oobg9ds", "author": "/u/roheezy", "updated": "2026-05-28T05:35:12+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1to82nj/i_sent_100_ai_websites_to_local_business_owners/oobg9ds/", "content": "Clueless" }, { "id": "t1_oo06l5o", "author": "/u/breich", "updated": "2026-05-26T16:57:45+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1to82nj/i_sent_100_ai_websites_to_local_business_owners/oo06l5o/", "content": "Opinion from a former freelance web dev, for what it's worth. TL;DR; you might be on to to something but personally I wouldn't touch it.\n What I like:\n - You're forming a business model around a real need in this market: there are lots of business owners that need a website and absolutely don't want to spend their time worrying about it. Some percentage might be willing to make that problem disappear with a monthly automatic transaction.\n - ~$300 is not ridiculous considering you are effectively amortizing the up-front build cost over monthly transactions. Some agencies/freelancers have moved to a similar model. It's not crazy.\n - You're using AI to improve efficiency and scale yourself up. Cool.\n - $300 per month per customer is a recurring revenue stream that could add up quick.\n What I don't like:\n - The process you described makes me uneasy. You aren't spending time learning a damn thing about the customer, their business, their market, their existing web strategy before you fart out an AI site and sell it to them. How do you actually deliver a site that performs better than their existing site when you have absolutely no information on their current performance?\n - The process you described just has so much risk of professional malpractice that I wouldn't touch it with a 10-foot pole.\n - It bothers me that the layperson is likely to plunk down money on what you're doing, get burned, then come to a professional to get them out of the mess and saddle us with their distrust and PTSD from their engagement with you. This dynamic has always existed, AI just scales it up.\n Specifically what I don't understand. You're doing no background research on this customer. From the sounds of it you are creating a generic website and then dialing it in to customize it a bit for the customer.\n\n- Claude has a specific way of building websites, and I wouldn't call them performance optimized by a longshot. Performance is a major factor in SEO optimization.\n- Claude DOES do an OK job of making sites responsive out of the box, but are you actually taking the time to test your work across multiple browsers, screen sizes, aspect ratios? I don't see QA in your plan.\n- With no insight into their current website's performance, how can you claim the new site is going to perform better?\n- If they have an existing website, you can't just switch the DNS from old to new and believe everything works out just fine. It doesn't, you need to map old URLs to new URLs, and stay on top of it using things like GSC. I don't see this in your process. I've had numerous clients that came to me SPECIFICALLY because their last "web guy" royally fucked this piece up.\n- With no insight into their target audience/service area, how are you optimizing their content to target the right searches from the right people?\n- Generic AI-generated content is only going to get them so far for so long.\n- Are you hosting/managing/maintaining the site for them long term? Depending on how it's build (WordPress, JAMStack+Vercel or similar, or just static HTML), security is a thing and it's not something you deliver once when the site is built. The real TL;DR; here is that I don't see any way to do what you're doing that's both passive income and ethical. You've got the general shape of something real here, but either you don't know what you don't know about doing this work right, or you don't care." }, { "id": "t1_oo1w96e", "author": "/u/couplecraze", "updated": "2026-05-26T21:35:15+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1to82nj/i_sent_100_ai_websites_to_local_business_owners/oo1w96e/", "content": "So you want us to believe you filmed 1500 videos commenting on the website you made (or the one they already have). I call BS." }, { "id": "t1_onzixpg", "author": "/u/one_two_three_4_5", "updated": "2026-05-26T15:12:53+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1to82nj/i_sent_100_ai_websites_to_local_business_owners/onzixpg/", "content": "To clarify, you're only building for the 4 that responded, or do you make mockups and looms for all 100 prospects, and include the site / loom video in the emails?" }, { "id": "t1_onzr948", "author": "/u/lazarbetterrun", "updated": "2026-05-26T15:49:54+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1to82nj/i_sent_100_ai_websites_to_local_business_owners/onzr948/", "content": "I make a mockup design that I show in the loom for all 100 (every cold email I send), which gets decently quick to do once you have a system. I only build the full site when I close someone. Best of luck to you if you try it!" }, { "id": "t1_onzxisx", "author": "/u/JohnnnyCupcakes", "updated": "2026-05-26T16:17:42+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1to82nj/i_sent_100_ai_websites_to_local_business_owners/onzxisx/", "content": "Can you show a demo of one such roofing site?" }, { "id": "t1_oo07h01", "author": "/u/Sanjomo", "updated": "2026-05-26T17:01:33+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1to82nj/i_sent_100_ai_websites_to_local_business_owners/oo07h01/", "content": "Oh you want facts and proof? Yeah. They never present that do they." }, { "id": "t1_oo0cths", "author": "/u/Sanjomo", "updated": "2026-05-26T17:24:57+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1to82nj/i_sent_100_ai_websites_to_local_business_owners/oo0cths/", "content": "Yeah that sounds passive. 🙄" }, { "id": "t1_onzpljg", "author": "/u/SempiternalApricity", "updated": "2026-05-26T15:42:34+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1to82nj/i_sent_100_ai_websites_to_local_business_owners/onzpljg/", "content": "I have been creating and designing websites for local businesses all around the world for 9 and a half years now. $299/month from an inexperienced person is more than far fetched.\n I use claude to polish my codes. I generate images on Gemini for certain clothing website…. $299/month from a single business doesn’t fit right. Are you sure it’s not $99.\n I have a client who has her own boutique. Pretty expensive outfits. I created her website and manage it ensuring that it is always updated with her latest designs. She is one of my golden clients and after 4 years we negotiated and hiked monthly charges to $149/month." }, { "id": "t1_oo09nmt", "author": "/u/Sanjomo", "updated": "2026-05-26T17:11:07+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1to82nj/i_sent_100_ai_websites_to_local_business_owners/oo09nmt/", "content": "OP is full of shit." }, { "id": "t1_oo16108", "author": "/u/No_Basil_8038", "updated": "2026-05-26T19:34:48+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1to82nj/i_sent_100_ai_websites_to_local_business_owners/oo16108/", "content": "You are doing something wrong. I am WP dev, have one client paying $500/month for maintenance, one 350€, and 4 more paying 200$ and I maintain one wp repo plugin for 500€/m. I never tried to sell it to them, they asked me what the quote would be as they were using my plugins and we chatted alot. Its just side business I never thought of starting, but its a nice small income.\n If your hourly rate is $60, thats 5h/month or 1h a week. Doesnt seem much and there is always room for improvmeent when it comes to website, maybe its just how you sell it.\n P.S. I am in WP business 12+ years so might be that." }, { "id": "t1_oo1us13", "author": "/u/SempiternalApricity", "updated": "2026-05-26T21:28:11+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1to82nj/i_sent_100_ai_websites_to_local_business_owners/oo1us13/", "content": "I have a total of 119 clients right now with different requirements. Including real estate brokers, 2 local electronic shopping complexes. $299/ month for 100% AI generate website is absurd sorry." }, { "id": "t1_oo61czj", "author": "/u/No_Basil_8038", "updated": "2026-05-27T13:16:44+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1to82nj/i_sent_100_ai_websites_to_local_business_owners/oo61czj/", "content": "Well if u send 1500 emails, some people would pay to see if they will get any leads, after 3-4 months they can shut it down. Not sure how domains work tho, but tbh it doesnt sound to me that its impossible, I mean 2 out of 1500 is not that great.\n On the other side, if u have 119 clients, I guess you are agency and not solo to maintain all of them, but in any case, you should be able to upsell CRO to them and help with leads, you have technical background and can easily do that. I am not fan of SEO, but CRO can make a difference. I did it with some clients, they are happy with the results and its one more type of income, initial setup takes time, but then once or twice a week you check/test/adjust." }, { "id": "t1_oo1m1jk", "author": "/u/m1cknobody", "updated": "2026-05-26T20:47:37+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1to82nj/i_sent_100_ai_websites_to_local_business_owners/oo1m1jk/", "content": "I used to do this way before ai and the model still works. 1)pick a niche 2) buy a list 3) mail the list\n I did my first website sale this way in 2007. I mailed 100 letters as it was all I could afford to make/mail.\n Sold a website, hosting, and maintenance for $500/mi. Six month later he referred me to another dentist that sublet office space from him. They were both customers until 2017." }, { "id": "t1_oo1nwud", "author": "/u/Leather_Sweet_2079", "updated": "2026-05-26T20:56:05+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1to82nj/i_sent_100_ai_websites_to_local_business_owners/oo1nwud/", "content": "1500-2 minute videos that likely take 5-10 minutes per video if you’re REALLY efficient? Yeah no part of this felt believable." }, { "id": "t1_oo0o7hg", "author": "/u/haydenw86", "updated": "2026-05-26T18:14:54+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1to82nj/i_sent_100_ai_websites_to_local_business_owners/oo0o7hg/", "content": "You want a retainer for AI doing your job for you?" }, { "id": "t1_oo1jr2s", "author": "/u/lardsack", "updated": "2026-05-26T20:37:13+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1to82nj/i_sent_100_ai_websites_to_local_business_owners/oo1jr2s/", "content": "what infra are you hosting these websites from? are you buying domain names as well? factoring these costs into your retainer fee as liabilities or is that fee all profit for you?" }, { "id": "t1_oo29iiu", "author": "/u/Middle-Peach2096", "updated": "2026-05-26T22:43:05+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1to82nj/i_sent_100_ai_websites_to_local_business_owners/oo29iiu/", "content": "I'm confused. You say you can take down the site if they stop paying. So are you providing hosting services? If you are that eats into your $300 gross. Could still be profitable but you'd have to know what you're doing. Who provides the domain? Who manages DNS? Are you providing SEO? Or are you just chucking a zip file at them and saying "figure it out?"\n If the pitch is "for $300 I'll manage all of your web presence" you are substantially underpricing. On the other hand if it's "your website costs $300 per month and you're responsible for the rest" sooner or later some of your customers are going to figure out they can just reset their hosting provider password and stop paying you. My advice would be either to sell the site itself for a couple grand single transaction plus a much smaller monthly upkeep, or lean into the model fully.\n Also get a lawyer. You need a contract that lays out IP rights, liability, etc." }, { "id": "t1_oo2s8qr", "author": "/u/melbhomo4str8btms", "updated": "2026-05-27T00:23:52+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1to82nj/i_sent_100_ai_websites_to_local_business_owners/oo2s8qr/", "content": "good work bud! it’s hard to get motivated if you’re not working a job that requires you to be somewhere or do something. I’m impressed by people who become self starters out of necessity. targeting tradesman is also a great idea. do you think you would have more clients if you were charging only $199, or is the price point better higher to serve as an indicator of professionalism from a marketing point of view…?" }, { "id": "t1_oo2ueyd", "author": "/u/Less_Knowledge950", "updated": "2026-05-27T00:35:48+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1to82nj/i_sent_100_ai_websites_to_local_business_owners/oo2ueyd/", "content": "What tools are you using to publish the website? After Claude makes the website then what? WordPress?" }, { "id": "t1_oo2yx73", "author": "/u/prettyprettybirdbird", "updated": "2026-05-27T01:00:03+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1to82nj/i_sent_100_ai_websites_to_local_business_owners/oo2yx73/", "content": "Brilliant" }, { "id": "t1_oo59yy4", "author": "/u/ShiniDas", "updated": "2026-05-27T10:39:11+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1to82nj/i_sent_100_ai_websites_to_local_business_owners/oo59yy4/", "content": "I'm building the platform where you put a bunch of bad websites links and it spits out fully redesigned fresh websites in less than 10 minutes per site. I have been going back and forth with this for 6 months now and it's finally starting to behave.." }, { "id": "t1_oo96ltl", "author": "/u/lazarbetterrun", "updated": "2026-05-27T21:37:56+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1to82nj/i_sent_100_ai_websites_to_local_business_owners/oo96ltl/", "content": "Sounds cool! Do you have a link?" }, { "id": "t1_onzht7t", "author": "/u/SkewerSk8r", "updated": "2026-05-26T15:07:44+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1to82nj/i_sent_100_ai_websites_to_local_business_owners/onzht7t/", "content": "Much more success with $250 website design (initial costs) then monthly $50 hosting/maintenance/SEO recurring costs, x 100 websites.. profit" }, { "id": "t1_onzpteg", "author": "/u/lazarbetterrun", "updated": "2026-05-26T15:43:32+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1to82nj/i_sent_100_ai_websites_to_local_business_owners/onzpteg/", "content": "That works great too! It all depends on the type of business you are targeting and how much money they make. With a lower price point, for some larger local businesses, it comes off as scammy or low quality" }, { "id": "t1_onzw12z", "author": "/u/SkewerSk8r", "updated": "2026-05-26T16:11:07+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1to82nj/i_sent_100_ai_websites_to_local_business_owners/onzw12z/", "content": "Yes but big businesses already have a marketing team and functioning website 99% of the time.\n Target niche is small business that dont have a website or very outdated one." }, { "id": "t1_onzw78h", "author": "/u/bebeeg2", "updated": "2026-05-26T16:11:52+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1to82nj/i_sent_100_ai_websites_to_local_business_owners/onzw78h/", "content": "This is correct" }, { "id": "t1_oo1fcv5", "author": "/u/PerfectAd9944", "updated": "2026-05-26T20:17:22+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1to82nj/i_sent_100_ai_websites_to_local_business_owners/oo1fcv5/", "content": "I would also add in there... you become an affiliate for a hosting company and have your clients get a hosting plan through your link. Just a little extra money. Choose a hosting affiliate program that pays you at every renewal not just one time.\n "If you don't find a way to make money while you sleep you will work until the day you die"" }, { "id": "t1_oo2kzfa", "author": "/u/AlpakaK", "updated": "2026-05-26T23:44:17+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1to82nj/i_sent_100_ai_websites_to_local_business_owners/oo2kzfa/", "content": "LOL. “My credit cards are maxed out I can’t buy groceries. But let me fuck around and dabble with a passive income side hustle instead of getting a regular job.”\n OP is either Claude pretending to be human or a loser living in mom’s basement with no real responsibilities." }, { "id": "t1_oo2qsck", "author": "/u/Ferrally_Polite", "updated": "2026-05-27T00:15:50+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1to82nj/i_sent_100_ai_websites_to_local_business_owners/oo2qsck/", "content": "Congratulations OP! Don’t argue with the negative Nellie’s here; I agree the price is fair, I understand you mean it’s passive bc once sold, the bulk of the work is done, etc;\n Good gig. Cheering you on!" }, { "id": "t1_oo2v2o6", "author": "/u/Swimming-Farmer6020", "updated": "2026-05-27T00:39:25+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1to82nj/i_sent_100_ai_websites_to_local_business_owners/oo2v2o6/", "content": "Tell me chat is this an ad for Leadburnr?" }, { "id": "t1_oo33oy8", "author": "/u/MrAnimus", "updated": "2026-05-27T01:25:42+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1to82nj/i_sent_100_ai_websites_to_local_business_owners/oo33oy8/", "content": "So, for $299, you create the website, the estimate form, handle hosting, and maintain it. Does the customer expect anything else? SEO optimization, content updates, social media integration, and content upgrade? What is in the contract?" }, { "id": "t1_oo36l98", "author": "/u/One_Gas_9535", "updated": "2026-05-27T01:41:19+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1to82nj/i_sent_100_ai_websites_to_local_business_owners/oo36l98/", "content": "Incredible! This is just the beginning too! Keep doing big things and using AI as a tool." }, { "id": "t1_oo36yzx", "author": "/u/Train2Perfection", "updated": "2026-05-27T01:43:22+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1to82nj/i_sent_100_ai_websites_to_local_business_owners/oo36yzx/", "content": "Why would you ever get a job? Why not double down on this and build a sales team?" }, { "id": "t1_oo3zrzn", "author": "/u/Rich-Fact-3366", "updated": "2026-05-27T04:31:39+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1to82nj/i_sent_100_ai_websites_to_local_business_owners/oo3zrzn/", "content": "Done this it work. Quantity will be your best friend. Had people doing this in my group and made 2k from single websites alone. I made 700+ in a week. Yall lazy as fuck lol" }, { "id": "t1_oo6g3s4", "author": "/u/LynxDiscombobulated7", "updated": "2026-05-27T14:26:26+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1to82nj/i_sent_100_ai_websites_to_local_business_owners/oo6g3s4/", "content": "This" }, { "id": "t1_oo47nmt", "author": "/u/GachaVibes123", "updated": "2026-05-27T05:28:03+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1to82nj/i_sent_100_ai_websites_to_local_business_owners/oo47nmt/", "content": "The retainer cost is way too low and the amount of work to be done is way too much. Yeah, this gives us a passive money thereafter but we still need to do a lot of work for it." }, { "id": "t1_oo550a0", "author": "/u/LowEnergyToday", "updated": "2026-05-27T10:02:34+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1to82nj/i_sent_100_ai_websites_to_local_business_owners/oo550a0/", "content": "this is a decent example of outbound lead gen, but it’s not really passive income since it still depends on ongoing sales, delivery, and churn risk. the only scalable part here is the systemized outreach, not the revenue itself, which is still active client work." }, { "id": "t1_oo5k0an", "author": "/u/AxUKenYGG", "updated": "2026-05-27T11:44:08+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1to82nj/i_sent_100_ai_websites_to_local_business_owners/oo5k0an/", "content": "A lot of AI tools out there. You just need to start using some and try different next time so you can compare what’s the best for your ideas to make money 🫡" }, { "id": "t1_oo63ltc", "author": "/u/Alternative_Boss6143", "updated": "2026-05-27T13:27:35+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1to82nj/i_sent_100_ai_websites_to_local_business_owners/oo63ltc/", "content": "I like this idea However 1500 cold emails Just got he person down the street and talk in person Charge an upfront fee say 2k then charge 200 per month to maintain Clears out your debts and keeps a retainer. Retainer is also cheaper Like. You want me to pay 3600 a year for a website that AI built I want you to build it and handle the downtime" }, { "id": "t1_oo758i3", "author": "/u/fatogato", "updated": "2026-05-27T16:16:03+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1to82nj/i_sent_100_ai_websites_to_local_business_owners/oo758i3/", "content": "What do you use for hosting and is that baked into the $299 monthly? Sounds kind of low" }, { "id": "t1_oo79smf", "author": "/u/focorsi", "updated": "2026-05-27T16:35:41+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1to82nj/i_sent_100_ai_websites_to_local_business_owners/oo79smf/", "content": "The Loom video showing the before/after is the actual unlock here. You`re not selling a website, you`re selling the gap between what they have and what`s possible in 2 minutes flat. Most people can't visualize that without seeing it." }, { "id": "t1_oo8d2v6", "author": "/u/Icy_Thing1847", "updated": "2026-05-27T19:23:46+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1to82nj/i_sent_100_ai_websites_to_local_business_owners/oo8d2v6/", "content": "When you're feeding Claude screenshots from Made in Webflow , are you having it generate raw HTML/CSS/JS, or are you hosting these on a specific low-code platform or static hosting tool (like Vercel, Netlify, or Hostinger)?\n How much time does it actually take you to produce one custom website asset and record the Loom video from start to finish? Are you doing any manual editing, or is it strictly one take?" }, { "id": "t1_onzijf1", "author": "/u/ValgusX", "updated": "2026-05-26T15:11:04+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1to82nj/i_sent_100_ai_websites_to_local_business_owners/onzijf1/", "content": "So how long have you been doing this? How many websites do you have on retainer? What is your conversion rate on cold email?" }, { "id": "t1_oo0etey", "author": "/u/Stashmouth", "updated": "2026-05-26T17:33:39+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1to82nj/i_sent_100_ai_websites_to_local_business_owners/oo0etey/", "content": "Maybe OP edited after you commented, but it's all in the post" }, { "id": "t1_oo0fq6n", "author": "/u/ValgusX", "updated": "2026-05-26T17:37:38+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1to82nj/i_sent_100_ai_websites_to_local_business_owners/oo0fq6n/", "content": "Yeah I'm curious on his numbers after 1,000+ emails." }, { "id": "t1_onzthi5", "author": "/u/og-crime-junkie", "updated": "2026-05-26T15:59:43+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1to82nj/i_sent_100_ai_websites_to_local_business_owners/onzthi5/", "content": "May I suggest getting a job?" }, { "id": "t1_oo06wz3", "author": "/u/lazarbetterrun", "updated": "2026-05-26T16:59:09+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1to82nj/i_sent_100_ai_websites_to_local_business_owners/oo06wz3/", "content": "I'm trying its hard out here" }, { "id": "t1_oo2h7f8", "author": "/u/og-crime-junkie", "updated": "2026-05-26T23:24:04+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1to82nj/i_sent_100_ai_websites_to_local_business_owners/oo2h7f8/", "content": "Fast food is always hiring." }, { "id": "t1_oo3g8pl", "author": "/u/TouchingWood", "updated": "2026-05-27T02:33:33+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1to82nj/i_sent_100_ai_websites_to_local_business_owners/oo3g8pl/", "content": "Why would he? He now has definitive numbers so it's just an execution problem and he can add a lot more from this that he could from a job." }, { "id": "t1_oo07ucj", "author": "/u/Substantial_Brain942", "updated": "2026-05-26T17:03:12+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1to82nj/i_sent_100_ai_websites_to_local_business_owners/oo07ucj/", "content": "I’m doing the same here but with chiropractors and massage therapists 🙌🏻" }, { "id": "t1_oo0i0md", "author": "/u/Constant_Industry472", "updated": "2026-05-26T17:47:35+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1to82nj/i_sent_100_ai_websites_to_local_business_owners/oo0i0md/", "content": "I only paid the company that managed my old site 140 and I only did it because they had a program that would accept quote requests and text me and they generated 3 social media posts a month automatically. Ive since been contacted by dozens of website companies and none of them were even close to 300 🥴" }, { "id": "t1_oo0ljr5", "author": "/u/Responsible_Sea78", "updated": "2026-05-26T18:03:03+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1to82nj/i_sent_100_ai_websites_to_local_business_owners/oo0ljr5/", "content": "Be sure they know how to use drone videos. Great selling tool for roofers." }, { "id": "t1_oo0riui", "author": "/u/devilssaddvocate", "updated": "2026-05-26T18:29:40+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1to82nj/i_sent_100_ai_websites_to_local_business_owners/oo0riui/", "content": "Congrats on the great results! What exactly is the mockup? Do you use one website mockup for all clients?" }, { "id": "t1_oo0rvnh", "author": "/u/Vision157", "updated": "2026-05-26T18:31:18+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1to82nj/i_sent_100_ai_websites_to_local_business_owners/oo0rvnh/", "content": "most of them will end up doing it on lovable" }, { "id": "t1_oo3iw88", "author": "/u/Jalapatitu", "updated": "2026-05-27T02:47:45+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1to82nj/i_sent_100_ai_websites_to_local_business_owners/oo3iw88/", "content": "I tried this, but it didn't work for me. How did you qualify the leads before crafting the websites?\n I sent like 200 emails with 200 websites crafted, and got almost no responses." }, { "id": "t1_oo3s8ab", "author": "/u/saito200", "updated": "2026-05-27T03:42:48+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1to82nj/i_sent_100_ai_websites_to_local_business_owners/oo3s8ab/", "content": "wow i make almost 10 times that for my one client on websitw retainer. you aim low" }, { "id": "t1_oo96ka5", "author": "/u/tired-artist", "updated": "2026-05-27T21:37:44+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1to82nj/i_sent_100_ai_websites_to_local_business_owners/oo96ka5/", "content": "What is in your offer for $3000 a month? That sounds great" }, { "id": "t1_oob99wz", "author": "/u/saito200", "updated": "2026-05-28T04:43:36+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1to82nj/i_sent_100_ai_websites_to_local_business_owners/oob99wz/", "content": "proactive website maintenance 24/7" }, { "id": "t1_oo469tx", "author": "/u/gr4phic3r", "updated": "2026-05-27T05:17:48+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1to82nj/i_sent_100_ai_websites_to_local_business_owners/oo469tx/", "content": "Show only 3 websites you made." }, { "id": "t1_oo59fss", "author": "/u/Unhappy_Bottle_9557", "updated": "2026-05-27T10:35:28+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1to82nj/i_sent_100_ai_websites_to_local_business_owners/oo59fss/", "content": "Why don't you teach it on YouTube" }, { "id": "t1_oo67v1y", "author": "/u/pacem", "updated": "2026-05-27T13:48:02+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1to82nj/i_sent_100_ai_websites_to_local_business_owners/oo67v1y/", "content": "Talk to me about your hosting strategy after build and retainer. They buy- then what?" }, { "id": "t1_oo6lslh", "author": "/u/traveller-1-1", "updated": "2026-05-27T14:51:52+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1to82nj/i_sent_100_ai_websites_to_local_business_owners/oo6lslh/", "content": "Congrats." }, { "id": "t1_oo6ubt1", "author": "/u/Shelldonix", "updated": "2026-05-27T15:29:12+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1to82nj/i_sent_100_ai_websites_to_local_business_owners/oo6ubt1/", "content": "What are you actually offering for £299PM? Your post doesn't really detail what it includes? It is just the basic hosting or are you actually offering proactive work?" }, { "id": "t1_oo80fuc", "author": "/u/GutterGucciGem", "updated": "2026-05-27T18:28:34+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1to82nj/i_sent_100_ai_websites_to_local_business_owners/oo80fuc/", "content": "*** this was a much longer post i may or may not have gotten reemed for but im a writer along with being an artist and starting out as self taught at 16/17 a web and graphic designer - i saved it to add to and im glad this struck a gratitude and moment of reflection i may have missed out on today ***\n But, the end of it was this and there’s something a lot of future or younger generations I don’t think will ever get to experience or u destined fully (I hope some experience it and I’m pretty sure that’s happening now, but I’m talking to the extent I guess. I’m def trying to not be disrespectful I hope that is understood ☮️💙) which is the process, the journey, the progress to the well deserved positive results (for some it’s not money only or even at all), not the instant pay off. The instant gratification. I know what it’s like to be actual low income (when I hear what some consider poverty or low income I want to 😆and 🤢 both) I experienced as well how to make quick money living with few resources on the streets for years. To survive. Not with pride. I’ve started again from nothing but I am grateful I experienced the re-building off a foundation of just myself and my experiences and what all I learned and having a new life, finding a purpose, and maybe not being as good as an attempt at perfect with things like AI, which I think is an illusion. Perfection would be terrifying.\n But I think AI is like having fire, and someone picking it up can build a wicked bonfire to grill food on for an entire town, build relationships and memories and bonds. Future opportunities given time. or they can pick up that fire and burn the town and everyone in it to the ground, intentional or not. And that’s a mild possible not to be understood by all metaphor that is eventually (I feel already is if you look around at the results SO far) going to be more and more apparent in regards to technology, artificial intelligence (much like the sweeteners in our coffees. It ain’t real sugar, but it makes you think it is. And then you learn it might eventually kill you, so you switch to the new “recommended” artificial sweetener…then you find out it’s even worse but there’s a 99.9% safe articifical sweetener…u get my point?)" }, { "id": "t1_oo8bbov", "author": "/u/burneracct604", "updated": "2026-05-27T19:16:07+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1to82nj/i_sent_100_ai_websites_to_local_business_owners/oo8bbov/", "content": "You've sent over 1000 emails via. loom over a few weeks?" }, { "id": "t1_oobrz0x", "author": "/u/wimdows", "updated": "2026-05-28T07:08:46+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1to82nj/i_sent_100_ai_websites_to_local_business_owners/oobrz0x/", "content": "I think you should A/B test this with different pricing tiers. You may well get 6 clients @ $150-199 a month…" }, { "id": "t1_oocm9br", "author": "/u/Exciting-Storage-391", "updated": "2026-05-28T11:11:55+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1to82nj/i_sent_100_ai_websites_to_local_business_owners/oocm9br/", "content": "It’s gaslighting you to use Ai charging by the minute ." }, { "id": "t1_ooe0j0h", "author": "/u/Numerous_Fuel6093", "updated": "2026-05-28T15:25:58+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1to82nj/i_sent_100_ai_websites_to_local_business_owners/ooe0j0h/", "content": "[ Removed by Reddit ]" }, { "id": "t1_oojezz6", "author": "/u/bobbigmac", "updated": "2026-05-29T09:42:26+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1to82nj/i_sent_100_ai_websites_to_local_business_owners/oojezz6/", "content": "I did the early stages on this after seeing the same post and very early on concluded most time would be wasted on candidate generation, and this is a lot of work. Good way to start building an agency and client network but this struggles to scale unless you're a confident up seller and much more engaged on the automation pipeline (which reduces conversion so you have to grow exponentially to beat the quality drop). Keep every customer you can get happy and this is viable if you don't mind hard work with some clients (lots of us did this around the millennium with $99 websites)" }, { "id": "t1_ope2vbp", "author": "/u/lilrichie_9", "updated": "2026-06-02T20:49:08+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1to82nj/i_sent_100_ai_websites_to_local_business_owners/ope2vbp/", "content": "[ Removed by Reddit ]" }, { "id": "t1_onz7krl", "author": "/u/Rooster_Odd", "updated": "2026-05-26T14:20:31+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1to82nj/i_sent_100_ai_websites_to_local_business_owners/onz7krl/", "content": "Thanks for this post. This gives me hope. I’m in a similar situation. Sending you a dm" }, { "id": "t1_onzi8kb", "author": "/u/Reasonable_Break_931", "updated": "2026-05-26T15:09:41+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1to82nj/i_sent_100_ai_websites_to_local_business_owners/onzi8kb/", "content": "Great start! I would suggest building more services into this system besides just a website. You managed to get these 2 clients. Try offering a few more as well as using these (plus your best mockups) as use cases for your upcoming leads. Much luck bro!" }, { "id": "t1_onzpieg", "author": "/u/lazarbetterrun", "updated": "2026-05-26T15:42:12+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1to82nj/i_sent_100_ai_websites_to_local_business_owners/onzpieg/", "content": "I was thinking about upselling on marketing or seo/geo down the road. Best of luck to you too!" }, { "id": "t1_oo0a0zc", "author": "/u/Sanjomo", "updated": "2026-05-26T17:12:45+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1to82nj/i_sent_100_ai_websites_to_local_business_owners/oo0a0zc/", "content": "Again. Not passive. Thats a full time job. 🙄" }, { "id": "t1_oo0y68t", "author": "/u/Reasonable_Break_931", "updated": "2026-05-26T18:59:21+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1to82nj/i_sent_100_ai_websites_to_local_business_owners/oo0y68t/", "content": "Good start. If you’re using claude they just released the “small business” plugins that you can find on the desktop app. It’s got a few good handful of skills I’m sure you’ll find value in!" }, { "id": "t1_onzi8g5", "author": "/u/Drumroll-PH", "updated": "2026-05-26T15:09:40+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1to82nj/i_sent_100_ai_websites_to_local_business_owners/onzi8g5/", "content": "What stands out to me here is not really the AI part, it’s the fact that you created something personalized and outcome focused instead of sending generic cold emails. Most people quit after a few rejections, but you pushed volume high enough to actually collect data and improve the process. I also think this shows that distribution and sales matter far more than perfect technical skills when starting an online business." }, { "id": "t1_onzoqv7", "author": "/u/desert_music", "updated": "2026-05-26T15:38:48+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1to82nj/i_sent_100_ai_websites_to_local_business_owners/onzoqv7/", "content": "Based on this and every other response you've ever made to anything, I'm pretty sure it's the AI part" }, { "id": "t1_oo051q2", "author": "/u/SheerSonicBlue", "updated": "2026-05-26T16:51:10+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1to82nj/i_sent_100_ai_websites_to_local_business_owners/oo051q2/", "content": "Can't believe how many are doubting your validity, I charge $180 an hour to help folks reconnect their printers. When folks have money and want something done well, cost really isn't an issue. For a large volume business $299 a month for what they consider a huge upgrade is absolutely fuckall." }, { "id": "t1_oo09hdi", "author": "/u/Sanjomo", "updated": "2026-05-26T17:10:22+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1to82nj/i_sent_100_ai_websites_to_local_business_owners/oo09hdi/", "content": "That’s not even close to the same thing! 🙄\n A individual Over paying for a one time job is one thing. A small local company already working in tight margins paying $299 a month to rent their own website is crazy. Have you ever billed these companies before? I have. I can tell you 99% of them are not spending $4k a year to rent a website." }, { "id": "t1_oo0afmq", "author": "/u/SheerSonicBlue", "updated": "2026-05-26T17:14:31+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1to82nj/i_sent_100_ai_websites_to_local_business_owners/oo0afmq/", "content": "I work for an MSP and bill them daily for every manner of thing, I was just giving an example. I'm in SWFL and can charge whatever I ask to these businesses. Last week I sold a CEO a MacBook for 9K and he tipped me $500 for the pleasure. We charge a base fee of $3500 to start design a website and our guy is always slammed.\n Edit:. Our guy that just uses AI to do it in 3 minutes." }, { "id": "t1_oo0et2y", "author": "/u/Sanjomo", "updated": "2026-05-26T17:33:37+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1to82nj/i_sent_100_ai_websites_to_local_business_owners/oo0et2y/", "content": "Yeah. Your comparison is the problem. A CEO spending $9500 on a Mac Book isn’t the same as Joe from Joe’s Local Roofing dishing out $4,000 a year to rent a website! … the same Joe who is getting hammered by tariffs, record fuel prices, record insurance rates and loss of cheap labor. Established companies over paying for everything is a completely different story. Roofers work on net profits of around 5-10% which is low for the trades." }, { "id": "t1_oo0jhco", "author": "/u/SheerSonicBlue", "updated": "2026-05-26T17:53:58+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1to82nj/i_sent_100_ai_websites_to_local_business_owners/oo0jhco/", "content": "Did you miss the second example given?" }, { "id": "t1_oo0m4ar", "author": "/u/Sanjomo", "updated": "2026-05-26T18:05:37+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1to82nj/i_sent_100_ai_websites_to_local_business_owners/oo0m4ar/", "content": "lol. Your second example gave zero context. I mean anyone like OP can throw numbers out there. You’re comparing apples to oranges. Construction and roofing and like trades operate on razor thin margins. Theres a reason why soooo many builds get halted mid production (a lot never to start again). Projected costs can skyrocket 70% in weeks. It’s one of the most volatile industries in the country, and a mom and pop roofing business is not likely to spend this on website rental when it’s not really a website driven market. 🤷🏻‍♂️" } ] }, { "source": "r/passive_income top month", "id": "t3_1tl68df", "title": "10 faceless YouTube niches that still don’t feel saturated", "author": "/u/pankaj9296", "updated": "2026-05-23T04:30:35+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tl68df/10_faceless_youtube_niches_that_still_dont_feel/", "content": "I thought faceless youtube channels were mostly saturated until I started actually studying them.\n most of the channels following super simple and similar format.\n I kept seeing the same niches over and over getting millions of views:\n\n- What If History - “What if you brought a Tesla to Ancient Rome?”\n- Body Science - “What happens to your brain after 21 days without sugar?”\n- Horror & Urban Legends - Japanese ghost stories seem to perform insanely well.\n- Hindi AI Stories - These emotional mini-series are getting crazy engagement.\n- Motivation & Wisdom - Simple life lesson videos still pull millions somehow.\n- Kids Moral Stories - AI animated stories for kids are everywhere now.\n- Space & Science What-If - “What happens if Jupiter became a star?”\n- Geography & World Facts - “Why Chile is so long” type videos still blow up.\n- Viral Clip Recaps - People literally repost clips with narration and get huge views.\n- Mythology & Faith - Religious/mystery storytelling gets absurd engagement. I've created a document with more example channels/videos/hooks for each niche, see it here FREE\n Link to full list of niches and channels with example videos\n submitted by /u/pankaj9296\n [link] [comments]", "contentHtml": "

I thought faceless youtube channels were mostly saturated until I started actually studying them.

most of the channels following super simple and similar format.

I kept seeing the same niches over and over getting millions of views:

  1. What If History - “What if you brought a Tesla to Ancient Rome?”
  2. Body Science - “What happens to your brain after 21 days without sugar?”
  3. Horror & Urban Legends - Japanese ghost stories seem to perform insanely well.
  4. Hindi AI Stories - These emotional mini-series are getting crazy engagement.
  5. Motivation & Wisdom - Simple life lesson videos still pull millions somehow.
  6. Kids Moral Stories - AI animated stories for kids are everywhere now.
  7. Space & Science What-If - “What happens if Jupiter became a star?”
  8. Geography & World Facts - “Why Chile is so long” type videos still blow up.
  9. Viral Clip Recaps - People literally repost clips with narration and get huge views.
  10. Mythology & Faith - Religious/mystery storytelling gets absurd engagement.

I've created a document with more example channels/videos/hooks for each niche, see it here FREE
Link to full list of niches and channels with example videos

submitted by /u/pankaj9296
[link] [comments]", "comments": [ { "id": "t1_oofwgdh", "author": "/u/AutoModerator", "updated": "2026-05-28T20:24:23+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tl68df/10_faceless_youtube_niches_that_still_dont_feel/oofwgdh/", "content": "Check out the Community Highlights for current and future Mod Vetted opportunities and Newsletter Episodes.\n Please do due diligence on any crypto opportunity. A simple google search could save you a fortune.\n I am a bot, and this action was performed automatically. Please contact the moderators of this subreddit if you have any questions or concerns." }, { "id": "t1_ondhtqk", "author": "/u/Old_Health_5218", "updated": "2026-05-23T04:34:15+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tl68df/10_faceless_youtube_niches_that_still_dont_feel/ondhtqk/", "content": "Yeah people love to scream “saturated” until they actually look under the hood lol.\n It is saturated if you just copy the same 5 niches with the same Canva templates and AI voice. The ones killing it either niche down hard, pick a better angle, or outdo everyone on thumbnails and storytelling." }, { "id": "t1_ondtgbg", "author": "/u/OrcOgi", "updated": "2026-05-23T06:09:01+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tl68df/10_faceless_youtube_niches_that_still_dont_feel/ondtgbg/", "content": "People thought YT was saturated at 2016..." }, { "id": "t1_ondj30q", "author": "/u/Puzzleheaded_Ad_4478", "updated": "2026-05-23T04:43:58+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tl68df/10_faceless_youtube_niches_that_still_dont_feel/ondj30q/", "content": "What criteria did you study to make sure it's not saturated?\n Also are these niches monetizable?" }, { "id": "t1_ondkihg", "author": "/u/pankaj9296", "updated": "2026-05-23T04:55:11+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tl68df/10_faceless_youtube_niches_that_still_dont_feel/ondkihg/", "content": "Yes, these are highly monetizable.\n And i used a simple frameworks: just find new channels in a niche (subs below 10k, views about 50-100k on average), see their growth overtime and if they seem to be growing at good pace, that means the niche is not yet saturated and there's a room for many more creators still." }, { "id": "t1_ondmvfc", "author": "/u/Puzzleheaded_Ad_4478", "updated": "2026-05-23T05:14:14+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tl68df/10_faceless_youtube_niches_that_still_dont_feel/ondmvfc/", "content": "Workflow would you recommend to produce the videos? Is AI involved?" }, { "id": "t1_ondo7p6", "author": "/u/pankaj9296", "updated": "2026-05-23T05:25:10+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tl68df/10_faceless_youtube_niches_that_still_dont_feel/ondo7p6/", "content": "Yeah, all of these niches are mostly focusing on AI based videos only.\n the workflow looks like this:\n - find popular videos in the niche, give them to chatgpt so it can suggest you some topics, choose one\n - generate script using chatgpt, iterate on it until you are satisfied\n - generate voiceover using gemini\n - generate images/video clips for each scene using any model like kling or veo or imagine\n - put it all in any video editor you are comfortable with, add captions\n - export\n this seems like a lengthy process but once you have it all working, it becomes easy.\n or you can use some existing tools to automate it all for you like AutoShorts, ViralFeed, etc." }, { "id": "t1_ondr3bd", "author": "/u/andySticks18", "updated": "2026-05-23T05:49:10+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tl68df/10_faceless_youtube_niches_that_still_dont_feel/ondr3bd/", "content": "I thought ai videos could not be monetized" }, { "id": "t1_ondrxsc", "author": "/u/pankaj9296", "updated": "2026-05-23T05:56:14+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tl68df/10_faceless_youtube_niches_that_still_dont_feel/ondrxsc/", "content": "no, youtube won't monetize low effort content like static visual with ai voice talking all the way.\n but if you put in efforts, and if video have different scenes, relatable story/script and good engagement, it is 100% monetizable." }, { "id": "t1_onv6khf", "author": "/u/Outside-Capital-8313", "updated": "2026-05-25T22:12:07+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tl68df/10_faceless_youtube_niches_that_still_dont_feel/onv6khf/", "content": "Would the free version be able to accomplish this work flow?" }, { "id": "t1_onwavgv", "author": "/u/pankaj9296", "updated": "2026-05-26T02:05:24+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tl68df/10_faceless_youtube_niches_that_still_dont_feel/onwavgv/", "content": "no, ai video generation is quite costly\n some cost effective solution is viralfeed.ai like apps\n but definitely not free" }, { "id": "t1_ondk42l", "author": "/u/sum-9", "updated": "2026-05-23T04:52:00+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tl68df/10_faceless_youtube_niches_that_still_dont_feel/ondk42l/", "content": "What if Jupiter became a star? Are you regarded?" }, { "id": "t1_ondkmxp", "author": "/u/pankaj9296", "updated": "2026-05-23T04:56:09+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tl68df/10_faceless_youtube_niches_that_still_dont_feel/ondkmxp/", "content": "a similar video on same topic got millions of views somehow lol" }, { "id": "t1_oni2vl0", "author": "/u/AreteQueenofKeres", "updated": "2026-05-23T22:00:39+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tl68df/10_faceless_youtube_niches_that_still_dont_feel/oni2vl0/", "content": "It's all AI generated trash. Even the greenest of greened out smokers don't sit around pondering this crap." }, { "id": "t1_onjydsc", "author": "/u/zendria7", "updated": "2026-05-24T05:29:31+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tl68df/10_faceless_youtube_niches_that_still_dont_feel/onjydsc/", "content": "check out the channel named "What if"---- bro has milked the solar system like anything lol" }, { "id": "t1_onf7vdl", "author": "/u/JDDW", "updated": "2026-05-23T13:01:45+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tl68df/10_faceless_youtube_niches_that_still_dont_feel/onf7vdl/", "content": "I literally stopped reading when I got to that 😂😂" }, { "id": "t1_ondhgzs", "author": "/u/pankaj9296", "updated": "2026-05-23T04:31:32+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tl68df/10_faceless_youtube_niches_that_still_dont_feel/ondhgzs/", "content": "Free resource: Link to full list of niches and channels with example videos" }, { "id": "t1_onh2pzx", "author": "/u/goob", "updated": "2026-05-23T18:46:26+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tl68df/10_faceless_youtube_niches_that_still_dont_feel/onh2pzx/", "content": "I watched a few of the videos from the top history channels listed here and each one had major error, factual inaccuracies, or spread wild conspiracies.\n It's sad this slop is so profitable." }, { "id": "t1_one57ib", "author": "/u/ComprehensiveTip2486", "updated": "2026-05-23T07:51:25+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tl68df/10_faceless_youtube_niches_that_still_dont_feel/one57ib/", "content": "Wow. very interesting ideas and some videos are very funny. For about 2 weeks ago, I have strated all the ideas, images, screenplay for a terror/mystery channel called: "Contos do Abismo" (Tales From The Abyss).\n Now, its time to execute and put his channel to WORK" }, { "id": "t1_onl6nwz", "author": "/u/TaliskyeDram", "updated": "2026-05-24T11:50:28+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tl68df/10_faceless_youtube_niches_that_still_dont_feel/onl6nwz/", "content": "I really feel making more ai slop videos to make an extra couple bucks is just furthering the dead internet theory. This isn't what we need." }, { "id": "t1_onh1vn6", "author": "/u/justchase22", "updated": "2026-05-23T18:42:05+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tl68df/10_faceless_youtube_niches_that_still_dont_feel/onh1vn6/", "content": "Can you stop enshittifying the internet to make a couple of bucks? If you like these topics how about investing some time into learning to make quality content" }, { "id": "t1_ondvs52", "author": "/u/Future-Ease-7155", "updated": "2026-05-23T06:28:55+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tl68df/10_faceless_youtube_niches_that_still_dont_feel/ondvs52/", "content": "Promotion" }, { "id": "t1_onecchc", "author": "/u/Simple-Club8449", "updated": "2026-05-23T08:56:45+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tl68df/10_faceless_youtube_niches_that_still_dont_feel/onecchc/", "content": "Intrested" }, { "id": "t1_ondhclv", "author": "/u/AutoModerator", "updated": "2026-05-23T04:30:36+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tl68df/10_faceless_youtube_niches_that_still_dont_feel/ondhclv/", "content": "Check out the Community Highlights for current and future Mod Vetted opportunities and Newsletter Episodes.\n Please do due diligence on any crypto opportunity. A simple google search could save you a fortune.\n I am a bot, and this action was performed automatically. Please contact the moderators of this subreddit if you have any questions or concerns." }, { "id": "t1_onei91t", "author": "/u/According-Use4841", "updated": "2026-05-23T09:51:03+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tl68df/10_faceless_youtube_niches_that_still_dont_feel/onei91t/", "content": "Can you suggest some websites where I can make ai videos" }, { "id": "t1_oneioqa", "author": "/u/pankaj9296", "updated": "2026-05-23T09:55:00+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tl68df/10_faceless_youtube_niches_that_still_dont_feel/oneioqa/", "content": "you can try viralfeed.ai or other similar tools" }, { "id": "t1_oo0u9og", "author": "/u/The_doctor_46__", "updated": "2026-05-26T18:41:59+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tl68df/10_faceless_youtube_niches_that_still_dont_feel/oo0u9og/", "content": "Is it free?" }, { "id": "t1_oninbfe", "author": "/u/Rude_Magazine_6033", "updated": "2026-05-24T00:03:21+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tl68df/10_faceless_youtube_niches_that_still_dont_feel/oninbfe/", "content": "How do you find these niches?" }, { "id": "t1_onlg8c3", "author": "/u/pankaj9296", "updated": "2026-05-24T12:52:52+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tl68df/10_faceless_youtube_niches_that_still_dont_feel/onlg8c3/", "content": "I do research, find top channels and categorise them, etc" }, { "id": "t1_onony2i", "author": "/u/Snarkz7", "updated": "2026-05-24T22:34:13+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tl68df/10_faceless_youtube_niches_that_still_dont_feel/onony2i/", "content": "Well, I did a monetization check on some of the top channels of some categories and guess what, they are not being monetized." }, { "id": "t1_ontloar", "author": "/u/jay_0804", "updated": "2026-05-25T17:30:05+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tl68df/10_faceless_youtube_niches_that_still_dont_feel/ontloar/", "content": "Ngl I don’t think most niches are “saturated” anymore, they’re just competitive on execution.\n A lot of these channels are honestly the same 3 formats repeated with different hooks. The channels winning are usually better at packaging, pacing, thumbnails, and consistency not necessarily originality.\n What surprised me most was how far you can get with simple systems now. Script in Notion, voice with ElevenLabs, edit in CapCut, thumbnails with AI tools, quick pitch docs/media kits in Runable or Gamma if you’re trying to get sponsors later. The barrier to entry is insanely low now.\n The hard part isn’t starting a faceless channel. It’s surviving long enough to post 100 videos without quitting lol." }, { "id": "t1_oob7gba", "author": "/u/No-Painter-48", "updated": "2026-05-28T04:30:50+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tl68df/10_faceless_youtube_niches_that_still_dont_feel/oob7gba/", "content": "Faceless channels can still work, but only if the idea has a real angle. Random AI voice + stock footage feels dead now, but storytelling, case studies, tutorials, and niche breakdowns can still hit hard." }, { "id": "t1_oooz2cq", "author": "/u/sam_narulaaa", "updated": "2026-05-30T02:51:37+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tl68df/10_faceless_youtube_niches_that_still_dont_feel/oooz2cq/", "content": "Honestly I think most of these aren’t “unsaturated niches”, they’re just proven formats with infinite execution space. The real difference I’ve seen is not the topic but packaging, pacing, and retention structure. Two channels can do the same “what if history” idea and one dies at 2k views while the other hits millions.\n What’s changed more recently is distribution inside the niche, not the niche itself. AI just lowered production cost so now it feels saturated because there’s way more average execution competing in the same feed." }, { "id": "t1_ooyde6u", "author": "/u/WeightOk5484", "updated": "2026-05-31T15:06:23+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tl68df/10_faceless_youtube_niches_that_still_dont_feel/ooyde6u/", "content": "the space what-if stuff really works, been watching few channels doing this type content and algorithm seems to love them. made me think about starting something similar but with cooking science angle like "what happens if you cook pasta in space" or weird food experiments\n btw that mythology niche is gold mine, especially if you can find stories from less covered cultures" }, { "id": "t1_one5ohq", "author": "/u/TheArtistCherry", "updated": "2026-05-23T07:55:36+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tl68df/10_faceless_youtube_niches_that_still_dont_feel/one5ohq/", "content": "." }, { "id": "t1_oneclsm", "author": "/u/Hannigan_Rex", "updated": "2026-05-23T08:59:10+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tl68df/10_faceless_youtube_niches_that_still_dont_feel/oneclsm/", "content": "New to faceless videos. Do I just make them, post, them, and with viewership they auto-monetize or do I have to do something else to get there? I've seen videos talking about faceless videos having to being instructional or selling something." }, { "id": "t1_oni3r52", "author": "/u/AreteQueenofKeres", "updated": "2026-05-23T22:05:40+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tl68df/10_faceless_youtube_niches_that_still_dont_feel/oni3r52/", "content": "There's no such thing as auto-monetization-- youtube/google will let you know once you're eligble for the partner program, then you can level up into applying for full monetization. You don't just wake up one morning to a check from google.\n and as much as OP wants to shill AI slop content, it seldom works. The same people paying for AI generators and uploading the content are the ones buying subs and likes to make it look more appealing." }, { "id": "t1_onekdb7", "author": "/u/pankaj9296", "updated": "2026-05-23T10:09:56+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tl68df/10_faceless_youtube_niches_that_still_dont_feel/onekdb7/", "content": "nope, you just create these videos and as your channel gets the required subs and watch hours, you get monetized." }, { "id": "t1_oneqkao", "author": "/u/darkbug3", "updated": "2026-05-23T11:02:09+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tl68df/10_faceless_youtube_niches_that_still_dont_feel/oneqkao/", "content": "thx" }, { "id": "t1_onewoun", "author": "/u/RevolutionaryBuy7164", "updated": "2026-05-23T11:48:40+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tl68df/10_faceless_youtube_niches_that_still_dont_feel/onewoun/", "content": "How do you do hindi Ai generated" }, { "id": "t1_oneyp22", "author": "/u/pankaj9296", "updated": "2026-05-23T12:02:39+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tl68df/10_faceless_youtube_niches_that_still_dont_feel/oneyp22/", "content": "it’s easy, you just write script in hindi and\n gemini voiceover, it supports hindi as well\n if you use tools like viralfeed.ai they already support hindi out of the box" }, { "id": "t1_onsm5v2", "author": "/u/singhrashika110", "updated": "2026-05-25T14:41:47+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tl68df/10_faceless_youtube_niches_that_still_dont_feel/onsm5v2/", "content": "viralfeed website is free or paid??" }, { "id": "t1_onsoah1", "author": "/u/pankaj9296", "updated": "2026-05-25T14:52:08+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tl68df/10_faceless_youtube_niches_that_still_dont_feel/onsoah1/", "content": "it’s paid app" }, { "id": "t1_onvv9l1", "author": "/u/CoursePotential9296", "updated": "2026-05-26T00:35:01+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tl68df/10_faceless_youtube_niches_that_still_dont_feel/onvv9l1/", "content": "Decent list but I'd push back on "not saturated" — most of these have been saturated for two years, the difference is execution quality and distribution timing. What If History and Space Science What-If channels are drowning in competition, the ones still breaking through are doing it with better hooks and stronger retention in the first 30 seconds, not because the niche is empty. The ones I'd actually watch closest on your list are the regional language plays like Hindi AI Stories, because the english-first creators mostly ignore non-english audiences and the CPM gap is closing. Geography and mythology also have longer shelf life than motivation content which has basically zero rewatch value. The honest filter for any of these is whether you can produce 30 videos before seeing meaningful returns, because the algorithm won't surface you before that regardless of niche. What does your document actually cover, is it channel examples or more like production breakdowns?" }, { "id": "t1_ondr5ng", "author": "/u/Logical-Yak5511", "updated": "2026-05-23T05:49:43+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tl68df/10_faceless_youtube_niches_that_still_dont_feel/ondr5ng/", "content": "great list.\n for creating videos in this niche,\n aituber.app can be the best fit\n - 1500+ voices across accents\n - 25+ visual styles from 3D to Cinematic\n - Full video ready in minutes\n - Prompt to full video\n - Script to video\n just free to give it a try btw" } ] }, { "source": "r/passive_income top month", "id": "t3_1thq8gj", "title": "What's a tech skill you picked up quickly that ended up making you real money?", "author": "/u/angaine", "updated": "2026-05-19T15:23:31+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1thq8gj/whats_a_tech_skill_you_picked_up_quickly_that/", "content": "​\n Not looking for "learn to code" generic answers — I mean specific skills that translated to actual income faster than you expected.\n For me: learning to build no-code automations with Zapier and Make (formerly Integromat). Within 3 months I was charging small businesses $500–1,500 to automate their workflows. Zero coding required.\n The best part? Most business owners have no idea these tools exist, so the bar to being an "expert" is surprisingly low.\n What's yours? What skill paid off faster than you thought it would?\n submitted by /u/angaine\n [link] [comments]", "contentHtml": "

​

Not looking for "learn to code" generic answers — I mean specific skills that translated to actual income faster than you expected.

For me: learning to build no-code automations with Zapier and Make (formerly Integromat). Within 3 months I was charging small businesses $500–1,500 to automate their workflows. Zero coding required.

The best part? Most business owners have no idea these tools exist, so the bar to being an "expert" is surprisingly low.

What's yours? What skill paid off faster than you thought it would?

submitted by /u/angaine
[link] [comments]", "comments": [ { "id": "t1_omoq8qq", "author": "/u/AutoModerator", "updated": "2026-05-19T15:23:32+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1thq8gj/whats_a_tech_skill_you_picked_up_quickly_that/omoq8qq/", "content": "Check out the Community Highlights for current and future Mod Vetted opportunities and Newsletter Episodes.\n Please do due diligence on any crypto opportunity. A simple google search could save you a fortune.\n I am a bot, and this action was performed automatically. Please contact the moderators of this subreddit if you have any questions or concerns." }, { "id": "t1_omoqx1u", "author": "/u/Happy_Election1514", "updated": "2026-05-19T15:26:33+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1thq8gj/whats_a_tech_skill_you_picked_up_quickly_that/omoqx1u/", "content": "learned basic video editing on capcut and davinci resolve in like 2 weeks and started doing short form content for small businesses, honestly the bar is so low that even mediocre editing skills get you paid pretty fast. once you understand cuts, transitions, and basic color grading you can charge like $300-500 per video easy. Dmed!" }, { "id": "t1_omp4u85", "author": "/u/Ninnchen77", "updated": "2026-05-19T16:29:16+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1thq8gj/whats_a_tech_skill_you_picked_up_quickly_that/omp4u85/", "content": "how and where do you get your clients? cold calling?" }, { "id": "t1_omp9ink", "author": "/u/sports28491", "updated": "2026-05-19T16:50:20+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1thq8gj/whats_a_tech_skill_you_picked_up_quickly_that/omp9ink/", "content": "Ok I didn’t understand why 2 apps, doesn’t Capcut alone have all the features or u using both free versions & in Capcut free version not all the features are there ?" }, { "id": "t1_oms97tf", "author": "/u/Hippocampustour", "updated": "2026-05-20T01:39:43+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1thq8gj/whats_a_tech_skill_you_picked_up_quickly_that/oms97tf/", "content": "From my memory of learning Davinci Resolve a bit, I think I remember that people like its Color Grading capabilities better. CapCut can probably do color grading too, but maybe the UI or time saving tools are better idk. People dig it though!" }, { "id": "t1_omxxr1e", "author": "/u/Efficient_Pepper6429", "updated": "2026-05-20T21:34:27+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1thq8gj/whats_a_tech_skill_you_picked_up_quickly_that/omxxr1e/", "content": "Where do you find your clients?" }, { "id": "t1_omosua1", "author": "/u/pastabedtime", "updated": "2026-05-19T15:35:09+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1thq8gj/whats_a_tech_skill_you_picked_up_quickly_that/omosua1/", "content": "any learning resource you’d recommend?" }, { "id": "t1_omot647", "author": "/u/Happy_Election1514", "updated": "2026-05-19T15:36:36+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1thq8gj/whats_a_tech_skill_you_picked_up_quickly_that/omot647/", "content": "Honestly through basic YouTube videos plus ai when needed for questions that enough to get a good grasp over a weekend or two" }, { "id": "t1_omoup88", "author": "/u/MenjiBusiness", "updated": "2026-05-19T15:43:24+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1thq8gj/whats_a_tech_skill_you_picked_up_quickly_that/omoup88/", "content": "How do you source clients?" }, { "id": "t1_omv9olh", "author": "/u/Particular_Basket_80", "updated": "2026-05-20T14:11:49+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1thq8gj/whats_a_tech_skill_you_picked_up_quickly_that/omv9olh/", "content": "DaVince Resolve has a huge library of free trainings and tutorials right on their website. 100% worth it to go through them" }, { "id": "t1_omw3pzr", "author": "/u/eyeballeddie", "updated": "2026-05-20T16:26:46+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1thq8gj/whats_a_tech_skill_you_picked_up_quickly_that/omw3pzr/", "content": "Hi mate can I DM you over this?" }, { "id": "t1_omp7ou9", "author": "/u/Drumroll-PH", "updated": "2026-05-19T16:42:16+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1thq8gj/whats_a_tech_skill_you_picked_up_quickly_that/omp7ou9/", "content": "For me it was learning basic 3D modeling and product visualization in Blender because I originally picked it up as a hobby and didn’t expect people would actually pay for it. After getting decent, I started doing small freelance work like product renders, game assets, and simple animations, and clients cared more about results than formal credentials. I also noticed the bar is lower than people think if you can communicate well and consistently finish projects." }, { "id": "t1_oms9nfd", "author": "/u/guigr100", "updated": "2026-05-20T01:42:14+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1thq8gj/whats_a_tech_skill_you_picked_up_quickly_that/oms9nfd/", "content": "Exactly the same thing happened to me, and incredibly I received work from areas I never imagined, such as doing 3D work for a doctor and a dentist. Exactly as you said, people (including those outside the audiovisual field) just want you to deliver something on time, without worrying too much about special effects and frills." }, { "id": "t1_omr2bwi", "author": "/u/YawningFish", "updated": "2026-05-19T21:41:34+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1thq8gj/whats_a_tech_skill_you_picked_up_quickly_that/omr2bwi/", "content": "It really is. I pretty much just export screen caps at this point. Most of the executive teams I work with just want a sense that the project is on track and screen caps to an email works for me for like 80% of the time." }, { "id": "t1_omtkomr", "author": "/u/Fair-Rush1799", "updated": "2026-05-20T07:11:25+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1thq8gj/whats_a_tech_skill_you_picked_up_quickly_that/omtkomr/", "content": "How do you start attractive potential clients?" }, { "id": "t1_on142v7", "author": "/u/Murderous_monk", "updated": "2026-05-21T10:25:16+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1thq8gj/whats_a_tech_skill_you_picked_up_quickly_that/on142v7/", "content": "This is such an underrated one because Blender looks terrifying from the outside until you realize most clients are not expecting Pixar-level wizardry.\n A lot of people underestimate how valuable “can make products look expensive online” actually is now. Especially with ecommerce, indie brands, ads, game prototypes, Kickstarter pages, all that stuff.\n Also completely agree on communication. Clients forgive a shocking amount if you’re reliable, clear, and don’t disappear into another dimension for 9 days after saying “almost done.”" }, { "id": "t1_omxyexu", "author": "/u/ExtendedMegs", "updated": "2026-05-20T21:37:49+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1thq8gj/whats_a_tech_skill_you_picked_up_quickly_that/omxyexu/", "content": "Ahh this was my dream job at one point haha. Even purchased a bunch of courses. What’s your opinion on the future of this field?" }, { "id": "t1_omot4rj", "author": "/u/Upstairs_Notice_5725", "updated": "2026-05-19T15:36:26+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1thq8gj/whats_a_tech_skill_you_picked_up_quickly_that/omot4rj/", "content": "Video editing with After Effects, picked it up in like 2 months just messing around with motion graphics for my design work. Started getting requests from local businesses for social media videos and now I charge $300-800 per video depending on complexity\n The crazy part is most people think video editing takes years to learn but basic motion graphics and text animations are pretty straightforward once you get the workflow down. Business owners see moving text and think its magic lol" }, { "id": "t1_omsombq", "author": "/u/bbradleyjoness", "updated": "2026-05-20T03:08:47+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1thq8gj/whats_a_tech_skill_you_picked_up_quickly_that/omsombq/", "content": "How have you been getting clients? just cold calls and showing your work?" }, { "id": "t1_omw5dxp", "author": "/u/anniemoooooose", "updated": "2026-05-20T16:34:06+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1thq8gj/whats_a_tech_skill_you_picked_up_quickly_that/omw5dxp/", "content": "I love how so many comments here have the same story yet none of them ever answer this question. It’s annoying at this point." }, { "id": "t1_omx0x8n", "author": "/u/mattisyou", "updated": "2026-05-20T18:54:02+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1thq8gj/whats_a_tech_skill_you_picked_up_quickly_that/omx0x8n/", "content": "Fr. Makes me think that a lot of them are faking it." }, { "id": "t1_omqmne5", "author": "/u/Impressive_Mail5035", "updated": "2026-05-19T20:29:01+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1thq8gj/whats_a_tech_skill_you_picked_up_quickly_that/omqmne5/", "content": "I picked up ux design last year and ive been designing an app since January of this year that im going full throttle with starting a business around. Given the protype feature in Figma and video editing in Canva, would you consider that some of this skill can easily be transferable to video editing? I ask because my future cofounders and I will be making a shit ton of video posts on the interwebs and I would want to know just how steep that inevitable learning curve will be" }, { "id": "t1_oniwhy8", "author": "/u/Latter-Constant-1989", "updated": "2026-05-24T01:01:22+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1thq8gj/whats_a_tech_skill_you_picked_up_quickly_that/oniwhy8/", "content": "If you can do design, well, a lot of the core concepts are the same. There are tons of templates for after effects that make corporate / quick videos dead easy. Ive done design for a long time and I transitioned from graphic design and print, to branding, to websites, to motion, to UX / UI. Basic video stuff with templates is often just swapping out assets like logo and knowing typography. If youre doing a lot of them "good enough" goes pretty far vs someone who doesnt know design at all.\n A lot of it is then just learning the idiosyncrasies of the tools." }, { "id": "t1_ond8fwd", "author": "/u/ai-techguy001", "updated": "2026-05-23T03:25:54+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1thq8gj/whats_a_tech_skill_you_picked_up_quickly_that/ond8fwd/", "content": "yeah "moving text = magic" is so real, same thing happens when i show clients a basic zap automating their leads and they act like i just performed surgery lol" }, { "id": "t1_ompvpjd", "author": "/u/SingleUmpire7464", "updated": "2026-05-19T18:27:51+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1thq8gj/whats_a_tech_skill_you_picked_up_quickly_that/ompvpjd/", "content": "This is probably gonna be a very weird answer but graphic design. Not ones where you draw from scratch but the one where you create something from pre-existing images from Canva.\n I make and sell printable (original) board games for a niche community. I went from having 0 everything to a 5 figure business in less than 6 months.\n The great thing about it is once I make the game, it becomes passive income. I occasionally have to answer questions about it but it’s 99% passive." }, { "id": "t1_omqvy8x", "author": "/u/thesharkon07", "updated": "2026-05-19T21:10:56+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1thq8gj/whats_a_tech_skill_you_picked_up_quickly_that/omqvy8x/", "content": "What kind of games? Like you create one with rules and then make some art for it?" }, { "id": "t1_omso42b", "author": "/u/Electrical_Zebra4919", "updated": "2026-05-20T03:05:39+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1thq8gj/whats_a_tech_skill_you_picked_up_quickly_that/omso42b/", "content": "I have the same question if you dont mind sharing please" }, { "id": "t1_omqe76g", "author": "/u/Clean_Flower_7492", "updated": "2026-05-19T19:51:11+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1thq8gj/whats_a_tech_skill_you_picked_up_quickly_that/omqe76g/", "content": "Great idea!\n And where do you sell? Your own website?" }, { "id": "t1_omqiz9l", "author": "/u/SingleUmpire7464", "updated": "2026-05-19T20:12:54+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1thq8gj/whats_a_tech_skill_you_picked_up_quickly_that/omqiz9l/", "content": "Etsy. I thought about having my own website but I really didn’t want to deal with the tax stuff" }, { "id": "t1_omr7aem", "author": "/u/Cokemax1", "updated": "2026-05-19T22:06:27+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1thq8gj/whats_a_tech_skill_you_picked_up_quickly_that/omr7aem/", "content": "Hi, is it just upload your pdf / jpg contents to Etsy, and consumer download and print it and play? do they really buying it?" }, { "id": "t1_omt1wug", "author": "/u/phone-san", "updated": "2026-05-20T04:39:09+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1thq8gj/whats_a_tech_skill_you_picked_up_quickly_that/omt1wug/", "content": "To this point, I found the paper app games sometime ago. They're these simple, single-player rpgs in a small notebook form. I absolutely love them, and have a couple in my work locker and in my car. There's definitely a market for this." }, { "id": "t1_omrr9qr", "author": "/u/SingleUmpire7464", "updated": "2026-05-19T23:56:50+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1thq8gj/whats_a_tech_skill_you_picked_up_quickly_that/omrr9qr/", "content": "Yes" }, { "id": "t1_omqdzdl", "author": "/u/clearasatear", "updated": "2026-05-19T19:50:13+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1thq8gj/whats_a_tech_skill_you_picked_up_quickly_that/omqdzdl/", "content": "What do you mean by creating something from pre-existing images from canva?\n Honest question as I am not familiar with the lingo and that sentence does not click for me at all." }, { "id": "t1_omqj8yt", "author": "/u/SingleUmpire7464", "updated": "2026-05-19T20:14:08+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1thq8gj/whats_a_tech_skill_you_picked_up_quickly_that/omqj8yt/", "content": "Canva has a massive library of graphics you can use commercially. They can be anywhere from simple shapes to clipart uploaded by artists. I basically use those to design board games" }, { "id": "t1_oniwqmn", "author": "/u/Latter-Constant-1989", "updated": "2026-05-24T01:02:53+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1thq8gj/whats_a_tech_skill_you_picked_up_quickly_that/oniwqmn/", "content": "How are you promoting the etsy and getting sales?" }, { "id": "t1_onj8mz3", "author": "/u/SingleUmpire7464", "updated": "2026-05-24T02:18:45+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1thq8gj/whats_a_tech_skill_you_picked_up_quickly_that/onj8mz3/", "content": "YouTube" }, { "id": "t1_omq0it4", "author": "/u/Murderous_monk", "updated": "2026-05-19T18:49:31+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1thq8gj/whats_a_tech_skill_you_picked_up_quickly_that/omq0it4/", "content": "Learning basic web scraping + data cleanup paid off way faster than I expected.\n Most businesses are drowning in messy data and repetitive manual tasks nobody internally wants to deal with. A shocking number of “AI startups” are basically spreadsheets crying for help behind the scenes.\n The funny part is the technical difficulty wasn’t even that high. The real value was being the person who could save someone 8 hours a week with a script they didn’t know was possible." }, { "id": "t1_omqyb34", "author": "/u/NerfYordles", "updated": "2026-05-19T21:21:56+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1thq8gj/whats_a_tech_skill_you_picked_up_quickly_that/omqyb34/", "content": "Are you from Belgium? I have a friend who does exactly this." }, { "id": "t1_on1413e", "author": "/u/Murderous_monk", "updated": "2026-05-21T10:24:52+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1thq8gj/whats_a_tech_skill_you_picked_up_quickly_that/on1413e/", "content": "Nah, I’m not from Belgium. Funny coincidence though, because once you start noticing these kinds of “boring automation” businesses, you realize there are random people quietly making good money from them everywhere without posting shirtless Lamborghini motivation content online." }, { "id": "t1_omtoj5h", "author": "/u/AppropriateResolve73", "updated": "2026-05-20T07:45:54+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1thq8gj/whats_a_tech_skill_you_picked_up_quickly_that/omtoj5h/", "content": "Can I ask how do you connect with clients? How do they find you?" }, { "id": "t1_on13xzw", "author": "/u/Murderous_monk", "updated": "2026-05-21T10:24:12+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1thq8gj/whats_a_tech_skill_you_picked_up_quickly_that/on13xzw/", "content": "Most of it came from just publicly solving small problems online.\n Reddit, Discords, Twitter/X, random communities, even helping someone for free once sometimes turned into referrals later. A lot of small businesses don’t actively search for “web scraping expert,” they just complain about repetitive work until someone says “wait, that can probably be automated.”\n Once you solve one useful problem well, word of mouth starts doing a surprising amount of work for you." }, { "id": "t1_ompejl2", "author": "/u/Asleep-Cancel9573", "updated": "2026-05-19T17:12:24+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1thq8gj/whats_a_tech_skill_you_picked_up_quickly_that/ompejl2/", "content": "ctrl+a ctrl+c alt+tab ctrl+v\n Made me look like a wizard back in 2005, my job mainly included copying photos from memory cards into a "database"." }, { "id": "t1_omr2uwr", "author": "/u/YawningFish", "updated": "2026-05-19T21:44:10+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1thq8gj/whats_a_tech_skill_you_picked_up_quickly_that/omr2uwr/", "content": "🤣this is like half of my work these days." }, { "id": "t1_oms1yee", "author": "/u/UtmostProfessional", "updated": "2026-05-20T00:58:06+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1thq8gj/whats_a_tech_skill_you_picked_up_quickly_that/oms1yee/", "content": "script it out, tell nobody" }, { "id": "t1_omuwr87", "author": "/u/sublime19", "updated": "2026-05-20T13:07:12+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1thq8gj/whats_a_tech_skill_you_picked_up_quickly_that/omuwr87/", "content": "Are you a madman? Ctrl+ shift+ v please or you're going to make the work lappy overheat again" }, { "id": "t1_omscw2c", "author": "/u/Obvious-Leather-4179", "updated": "2026-05-20T02:00:42+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1thq8gj/whats_a_tech_skill_you_picked_up_quickly_that/omscw2c/", "content": "Sales.\n Not even close.\n Learning how to cold call, handle objections, follow up consistently, and actually close deals made me money way faster than any technical skill.\n A lot of profitable skills aren’t the “build” skills—they’re the “get paid” skills.\n Automation, AI, web design, copywriting, etc. are great, but if you can sell, you can monetize almost anything much faster." }, { "id": "t1_ompk9ma", "author": "/u/MessageDarren", "updated": "2026-05-19T17:37:22+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1thq8gj/whats_a_tech_skill_you_picked_up_quickly_that/ompk9ma/", "content": "Flutter. Combined with AI you can create apps pretty quickly.\n Work on niche solutions rather than copying what else is out there." }, { "id": "t1_omqvmpu", "author": "/u/Solid_Training750", "updated": "2026-05-19T21:09:26+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1thq8gj/whats_a_tech_skill_you_picked_up_quickly_that/omqvmpu/", "content": "Anticipating my college was going to cut my paid time from 12 months to 10 months, I started an antique business. I love learning and read many antique materials. The internet was not there yet. I am now retired at 70 and still keep a lucrative business with my husband (who I met in the antique business). Yes, it is slow but if you have a good eye, read Antique Weekly, start small in a local antique mall (most dealers want to 'teach' you and even if it is something you already know, just listen they may actually come up with a gem of knowledge. ALSO do not absorb their boasts, they will tell you they went to a fair and sold $$$$$. They know you cannot verify this.\n My takeaway>> work the counter, SEE what sells." }, { "id": "t1_omu1uz0", "author": "/u/illicitli", "updated": "2026-05-20T09:43:39+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1thq8gj/whats_a_tech_skill_you_picked_up_quickly_that/omu1uz0/", "content": "LOL none of this is passive income" }, { "id": "t1_omrt09q", "author": "/u/hw999", "updated": "2026-05-20T00:06:50+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1thq8gj/whats_a_tech_skill_you_picked_up_quickly_that/omrt09q/", "content": "learned to say no. Dont accept shitty customers or employers. It feees up alot of time for making more money." }, { "id": "t1_ompkwi0", "author": "/u/Mr_Wise-Guy", "updated": "2026-05-19T17:40:08+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1thq8gj/whats_a_tech_skill_you_picked_up_quickly_that/ompkwi0/", "content": "How did you guys got your first client? Cold emailing or reaching out in person or via linkedin?" }, { "id": "t1_omr2ni8", "author": "/u/YawningFish", "updated": "2026-05-19T21:43:09+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1thq8gj/whats_a_tech_skill_you_picked_up_quickly_that/omr2ni8/", "content": "Most (9.5/10) of my clients are referral based. But to get the first ones, I use reddit, Facebook, Craigslist, and old college friends." }, { "id": "t1_omtne0e", "author": "/u/deliasafuckinasshole", "updated": "2026-05-20T07:35:29+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1thq8gj/whats_a_tech_skill_you_picked_up_quickly_that/omtne0e/", "content": "Ai bot post and surprised nobody else noticed" }, { "id": "t1_omwjtln", "author": "/u/Zaphods0therHead", "updated": "2026-05-20T17:37:22+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1thq8gj/whats_a_tech_skill_you_picked_up_quickly_that/omwjtln/", "content": "Yeah, this post reads as an ad for Zapier and Make." }, { "id": "t1_ompla6f", "author": "/u/AbleBlacksmith1573", "updated": "2026-05-19T17:41:47+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1thq8gj/whats_a_tech_skill_you_picked_up_quickly_that/ompla6f/", "content": "Day trading" }, { "id": "t1_omr22s9", "author": "/u/YawningFish", "updated": "2026-05-19T21:40:19+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1thq8gj/whats_a_tech_skill_you_picked_up_quickly_that/omr22s9/", "content": "3D modeling and rendering. 60% of my business is made from this." }, { "id": "t1_omrvo2d", "author": "/u/Big-Discipline-1235", "updated": "2026-05-20T00:22:14+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1thq8gj/whats_a_tech_skill_you_picked_up_quickly_that/omrvo2d/", "content": "The actual skill was coding - whether you like it or not, that’s what led me to earn money quickly since 2016, even before I completed my CS degree 😊" }, { "id": "t1_omt5grg", "author": "/u/laddermanUS", "updated": "2026-05-20T05:05:54+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1thq8gj/whats_a_tech_skill_you_picked_up_quickly_that/omt5grg/", "content": "jailbreaking iphones and ipads back in the day. earnt about $400 a week" }, { "id": "t1_omwpxgu", "author": "/u/DigitalGravityAgency", "updated": "2026-05-20T18:04:20+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1thq8gj/whats_a_tech_skill_you_picked_up_quickly_that/omwpxgu/", "content": "The latest software is game changing man ✊🏾 🔥" }, { "id": "t1_omtjvse", "author": "/u/JittimaJabs", "updated": "2026-05-20T07:04:29+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1thq8gj/whats_a_tech_skill_you_picked_up_quickly_that/omtjvse/", "content": "I can cook" }, { "id": "t1_omwtlvn", "author": "/u/sidehustle_brad", "updated": "2026-05-20T18:20:53+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1thq8gj/whats_a_tech_skill_you_picked_up_quickly_that/omwtlvn/", "content": "Prompt engineering + basic HTML/CSS.\n Not in the "write better ChatGPT prompts" sense. More like: learning to use AI to actually build and ship things fast. I went from idea to live website in a day instead of a week. That speed compounded.\n I used it to build a portfolio of niche utility sites — calculators, estimators, cost guides — monetized with AdSense. Each one takes a weekend to build, then earns passively. The skill wasn't coding, it was knowing how to direct AI to produce production-ready output and then knowing enough HTML to deploy it.\n The bar to "expert" is low here too, exactly like you said with Zapier. Most people using AI are still in the chatbot/assistant phase. Actually building with it is a different skill set entirely." }, { "id": "t1_omt9p9o", "author": "/u/Waste-Track1144", "updated": "2026-05-20T05:39:36+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1thq8gj/whats_a_tech_skill_you_picked_up_quickly_that/omt9p9o/", "content": "Learning how to drive high quality traffic as been a game changer for my life. Cause every company online needs quality traffic." }, { "id": "t1_omuczq3", "author": "/u/SweatyEngineer", "updated": "2026-05-20T11:08:48+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1thq8gj/whats_a_tech_skill_you_picked_up_quickly_that/omuczq3/", "content": "Where do you get said quality traffic for different kind of customers?" }, { "id": "t1_omz70l3", "author": "/u/Waste-Track1144", "updated": "2026-05-21T01:48:31+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1thq8gj/whats_a_tech_skill_you_picked_up_quickly_that/omz70l3/", "content": "Personally, I’ve had the most success with LinkedIn, Google, and Quora traffic." }, { "id": "t1_omzbjn5", "author": "/u/SweatyEngineer", "updated": "2026-05-21T02:13:29+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1thq8gj/whats_a_tech_skill_you_picked_up_quickly_that/omzbjn5/", "content": "Thanks for the reply. Was it organic or paid traffic?" }, { "id": "t1_on00qjg", "author": "/u/Waste-Track1144", "updated": "2026-05-21T04:52:57+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1thq8gj/whats_a_tech_skill_you_picked_up_quickly_that/on00qjg/", "content": "Organic" }, { "id": "t1_on2q5at", "author": "/u/ApprehensiveHouse165", "updated": "2026-05-21T15:37:23+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1thq8gj/whats_a_tech_skill_you_picked_up_quickly_that/on2q5at/", "content": "where do u get clients?" }, { "id": "t1_on316o7", "author": "/u/Waste-Track1144", "updated": "2026-05-21T16:26:38+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1thq8gj/whats_a_tech_skill_you_picked_up_quickly_that/on316o7/", "content": "What do you mean" }, { "id": "t1_onc0o65", "author": "/u/ApprehensiveHouse165", "updated": "2026-05-22T22:56:51+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1thq8gj/whats_a_tech_skill_you_picked_up_quickly_that/onc0o65/", "content": "how do u get to work for these clients to work for?" }, { "id": "t1_omul3zr", "author": "/u/LowEnergyToday", "updated": "2026-05-20T12:00:56+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1thq8gj/whats_a_tech_skill_you_picked_up_quickly_that/omul3zr/", "content": "low-code automation is definitely one of those “fast monetization” skills because businesses feel the pain immediately and don’t care how it’s built as long as it saves time or money. the real advantage is that most of the value comes from understanding workflows and processes rather than technical depth, so you can start charging once you can reliably solve a few common problems." }, { "id": "t1_omuvyxz", "author": "/u/D0wnVoteMe_PLZ", "updated": "2026-05-20T13:02:58+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1thq8gj/whats_a_tech_skill_you_picked_up_quickly_that/omuvyxz/", "content": "Puzzle books. I sell original puzzle books with puzzle generators created by me through AI. I have graphic design background so I offer complete package which includes cover and extra pages. I even offer to edit them for KDP publishing." }, { "id": "t1_omz2hmi", "author": "/u/Grand-Vision", "updated": "2026-05-21T01:23:52+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1thq8gj/whats_a_tech_skill_you_picked_up_quickly_that/omz2hmi/", "content": "n8n specifically, not Zapier or Make. Learned it about 3 years ago and within 6 weeks was charging clients.\n The reason it translated to income faster: the learning curve is steeper than Zapier but the result is a more capable system, so you can take projects that Zapier users cannot. Clients who need multi-step logic, data transformation, API integrations with auth, or proper error handling need someone building in n8n.\n The skill that compounded it: knowing how to scope and price automation projects. Most people learn the tool but underprice because they do not realise how much manual labour they are replacing. An automation that saves a 10-person team 2 hours per day is worth significantly more than the build time.\n The income model that worked: one-off builds ($1,500-5,000 depending on complexity) and monthly retainers ($200-500/month) for maintenance and monitoring. The retainer makes it passive-ish after the initial build." }, { "id": "t1_on2p4k9", "author": "/u/ApprehensiveHouse165", "updated": "2026-05-21T15:32:53+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1thq8gj/whats_a_tech_skill_you_picked_up_quickly_that/on2p4k9/", "content": "how do u find clients?" }, { "id": "t1_onggkdq", "author": "/u/Grand-Vision", "updated": "2026-05-23T16:55:17+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1thq8gj/whats_a_tech_skill_you_picked_up_quickly_that/onggkdq/", "content": "First clients came from two places: LinkedIn and existing professional network. The framing that worked was not 'I do automation' but 'I help [type of business] eliminate their most time-consuming manual processes.' That framing starts a different conversation.\n After the first 2-3 clients, referrals did most of the work. Automation clients talk to each other - if the results are visible and the work is reliable, introductions happen without asking for them.\n Upwork works for volume but the margin is lower and you compete on price more. The better long-term model is positioning as a specialist for a specific industry or tool stack. A client who needs n8n specifically for their Shopify-Xero-Slack pipeline has far fewer options than a client who just wants 'automation help' - and the specialist commands a very different rate." }, { "id": "t1_onghlrv", "author": "/u/Grand-Vision", "updated": "2026-05-23T17:00:28+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1thq8gj/whats_a_tech_skill_you_picked_up_quickly_that/onghlrv/", "content": "First clients came from two places: LinkedIn and existing professional network. The framing that worked was not 'I do automation' but 'I help [type of business] eliminate their most time-consuming manual processes.' That framing starts a different conversation.\n After the first 2-3 clients, referrals did most of the work. Automation clients talk to each other - if the results are visible and the work is reliable, introductions happen without asking for them.\n Upwork works for volume but the margin is lower and you compete on price more. The better long-term model is positioning as a specialist for a specific industry or tool stack. A client who needs n8n specifically for their Shopify-Xero-Slack pipeline has far fewer options than a client who just wants 'automation help' - and the specialist commands a very different rate." }, { "id": "t1_on8u7fm", "author": "/u/xXDADDYTHRASHERXx", "updated": "2026-05-22T13:37:48+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1thq8gj/whats_a_tech_skill_you_picked_up_quickly_that/on8u7fm/", "content": "Funny thing for me. I started out in the 90s learning html and css and command line. Since then I have learned many languages and devops and produced saas and iOS apps. But even with all these website building tools that make it so easy for people to make their own websites. My biggest revenue maker is building and maintaining websites for small businesses. I make very little to no revenue from all the complex languages and services I have studied. Basic easy work is what has paid the bills so to speak" }, { "id": "t1_ontq2r9", "author": "/u/jay_0804", "updated": "2026-05-25T17:50:40+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1thq8gj/whats_a_tech_skill_you_picked_up_quickly_that/ontq2r9/", "content": "Honestly the fastest “money skill” for me wasn’t one big thing, it was learning basic short-form content editing + AI-assisted writing.\n Like nothing fancy. Just cutting clips, adding captions, cleaning pacing, and using AI tools to speed up scripts/captions/descriptions. Within a few weeks I could help small creators and pages that didn’t want to deal with editing at all.\n Also simple stuff like basic landing pages + copywriting surprised me. Most small businesses don’t need advanced dev work, they just need something clear that converts.\n Tbh the pattern I noticed is the same as your Zapier example - anything that removes boring manual work from a business can get monetized pretty fast, even if you’re “not an expert” yet." }, { "id": "t1_onvvof0", "author": "/u/CoursePotential9296", "updated": "2026-05-26T00:37:23+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1thq8gj/whats_a_tech_skill_you_picked_up_quickly_that/onvvof0/", "content": "Prompt engineering and knowing how to actually structure an AI workflow end to end. Not in the "I use ChatGPT" sense but understanding how to chain outputs, when to use which model, how to build something that a non-technical person can operate without breaking it. Picked it up over a few months just by building things for myself, first a content system, then a lead qualifier, then an info product that runs mostly on its own. The market for it is still weirdly underpriced because most people either can't do it at all or overcomplicate it. The skill that actually converted to money fastest though was learning to write copy that doesn't sound like marketing. Took maybe six weeks of deliberate practice and it changed conversion on everything I was already selling." }, { "id": "t1_ompaba2", "author": "/u/Miamiconnectionexo", "updated": "2026-05-19T16:53:48+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1thq8gj/whats_a_tech_skill_you_picked_up_quickly_that/ompaba2/", "content": "this is actually really useful, saved for later. thanks for sharing." }, { "id": "t1_omsokdy", "author": "/u/Flimsy-Comment7431", "updated": "2026-05-20T03:08:28+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1thq8gj/whats_a_tech_skill_you_picked_up_quickly_that/omsokdy/", "content": "instead of tech i would go in creative skills which would not be obsoleter after AI implementation" }, { "id": "t1_omsuyg7", "author": "/u/SinisterPotat0", "updated": "2026-05-20T03:50:28+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1thq8gj/whats_a_tech_skill_you_picked_up_quickly_that/omsuyg7/", "content": "Installing Windows OS and MS Office earned me some money back in the day." }, { "id": "t1_omt6zn8", "author": "/u/ChestEducational2258", "updated": "2026-05-20T05:17:48+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1thq8gj/whats_a_tech_skill_you_picked_up_quickly_that/omt6zn8/", "content": "Photography and editing." }, { "id": "t1_omtx9jy", "author": "/u/EthanW87", "updated": "2026-05-20T09:03:35+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1thq8gj/whats_a_tech_skill_you_picked_up_quickly_that/omtx9jy/", "content": "WordPress administration" }, { "id": "t1_omu6e02", "author": "/u/jimmy5013", "updated": "2026-05-20T10:20:22+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1thq8gj/whats_a_tech_skill_you_picked_up_quickly_that/omu6e02/", "content": "Autotrading" }, { "id": "t1_omu9xv2", "author": "/u/anshiljain01", "updated": "2026-05-20T10:47:14+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1thq8gj/whats_a_tech_skill_you_picked_up_quickly_that/omu9xv2/", "content": "Zapier API is amazing but costly as well" }, { "id": "t1_omue3lt", "author": "/u/Glum-Mobile-6489", "updated": "2026-05-20T11:16:23+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1thq8gj/whats_a_tech_skill_you_picked_up_quickly_that/omue3lt/", "content": "Para tu caso, te recomiendo una herramienta que hace scrapping a Google maps para negocios locales y puedas mandar correos a los dueños de negocio tu producto o servicio.\n Si ya funcióna, vende más..." }, { "id": "t1_omup848", "author": "/u/Real_Interaction_111", "updated": "2026-05-20T12:25:21+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1thq8gj/whats_a_tech_skill_you_picked_up_quickly_that/omup848/", "content": "AI has changed many industries." }, { "id": "t1_omve4r2", "author": "/u/Southern-Bus-1240", "updated": "2026-05-20T14:32:26+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1thq8gj/whats_a_tech_skill_you_picked_up_quickly_that/omve4r2/", "content": "I actually learned decent video editing and I wouldn't say i completed it greatly but it does give me task to earn. Currently not focused on the tasks though." }, { "id": "t1_on31bij", "author": "/u/Waste-Track1144", "updated": "2026-05-21T16:27:15+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1thq8gj/whats_a_tech_skill_you_picked_up_quickly_that/on31bij/", "content": "Sorry I do affiliate marketing" }, { "id": "t1_ona4n7u", "author": "/u/Alone-Improvement-28", "updated": "2026-05-22T17:17:41+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1thq8gj/whats_a_tech_skill_you_picked_up_quickly_that/ona4n7u/", "content": "Mine was being the Excel guy. You can learn really advanced stuff in just a few weeks and small businesses are willing to pay the excel guy rather than hiring an expensive analyst" }, { "id": "t1_onj3q2o", "author": "/u/rchaplin2017", "updated": "2026-05-24T01:47:34+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1thq8gj/whats_a_tech_skill_you_picked_up_quickly_that/onj3q2o/", "content": "How do you find those businesses to sell to and how do you position your services? I’m fluent in Zapier and tray and would consider this as a side gig." }, { "id": "t1_onrbufh", "author": "/u/ash-the-kid-chef", "updated": "2026-05-25T09:53:30+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1thq8gj/whats_a_tech_skill_you_picked_up_quickly_that/onrbufh/", "content": "The post is Ai\n And the responses are mainly AI as well….\n What a sad world we live in" }, { "id": "t1_omqc5fk", "author": "/u/Emergency_Corner1638", "updated": "2026-05-19T19:41:54+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1thq8gj/whats_a_tech_skill_you_picked_up_quickly_that/omqc5fk/", "content": "Clipping" }, { "id": "t1_omqfj2f", "author": "/u/ahomelessguy", "updated": "2026-05-19T19:57:11+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1thq8gj/whats_a_tech_skill_you_picked_up_quickly_that/omqfj2f/", "content": "Shit, I learned to create apps within Google Sheets and gave an employee 4hrs a day back. Filled it with revenue generation work" }, { "id": "t1_omska6w", "author": "/u/bam83_pts", "updated": "2026-05-20T02:43:06+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1thq8gj/whats_a_tech_skill_you_picked_up_quickly_that/omska6w/", "content": "For me it's definitely marketing. I'm currently in the tech field right now but I've been planning to shift to the marketing industry because of this." }, { "id": "t1_omsphix", "author": "/u/Which_Foundation8493", "updated": "2026-05-20T03:14:13+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1thq8gj/whats_a_tech_skill_you_picked_up_quickly_that/omsphix/", "content": "Wonderful thread. For me it’ll probably be when I learn how to cut my own hair/Grow my own food/Grow my own Bud. I’ll be able to save a lot of money with any of those skills." } ] }, { "source": "r/passive_income top month", "id": "t3_1tf2yl6", "title": "Has anyone built a passive income stream that still works years later?", "author": "/u/kingst9606", "updated": "2026-05-16T19:21:15+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tf2yl6/has_anyone_built_a_passive_income_stream_that/", "content": "A lot of side income ideas seem to work for a few months then slowly die off once competition increases or platforms change. Interested in hearing about stuff people have managed to keep alive long term.\n submitted by /u/kingst9606\n [link] [comments]", "contentHtml": "

A lot of side income ideas seem to work for a few months then slowly die off once competition increases or platforms change. Interested in hearing about stuff people have managed to keep alive long term.

submitted by /u/kingst9606
[link] [comments]", "comments": [ { "id": "t1_om6k2gn", "author": "/u/AutoModerator", "updated": "2026-05-16T19:21:15+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tf2yl6/has_anyone_built_a_passive_income_stream_that/om6k2gn/", "content": "Check out the Community Highlights for current and future Mod Vetted opportunities and Newsletter Episodes.\n Please do due diligence on any crypto opportunity. A simple google search could save you a fortune.\n I am a bot, and this action was performed automatically. Please contact the moderators of this subreddit if you have any questions or concerns." }, { "id": "t1_om75zof", "author": "/u/Sony_a7c", "updated": "2026-05-16T21:18:00+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tf2yl6/has_anyone_built_a_passive_income_stream_that/om75zof/", "content": "Stock photography, keeps giving. I have 3000 photos on one site and 2000 on another. Returns $40/month over 10 years." }, { "id": "t1_om8fk82", "author": "/u/xixxious", "updated": "2026-05-17T01:53:01+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tf2yl6/has_anyone_built_a_passive_income_stream_that/om8fk82/", "content": "Did you take the photos yourself? Can you say more about this?" }, { "id": "t1_om8h9s1", "author": "/u/Sony_a7c", "updated": "2026-05-17T02:04:02+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tf2yl6/has_anyone_built_a_passive_income_stream_that/om8h9s1/", "content": "Yes, I took photos of anything and everything, I started with stuff in my house like chess boards, glasses of wine, water taps, fruit in a bowl, my daughter using the sewing machine... none of these things are just objects, they're 'bigger issues' ie: business strategy, local alcohol rules, water security and handwashing during covid, health and wellness, creativity and clothing maintenance... people want images of those greater issues because that's what they're writing about. When one photo does really well consistently i double down and take 40 more of the same thing from different angles. It's a long process to build up the library but it's exciting to see sales and to see the photos get used." }, { "id": "t1_om92d4f", "author": "/u/TheLastStarMaker", "updated": "2026-05-17T04:30:49+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tf2yl6/has_anyone_built_a_passive_income_stream_that/om92d4f/", "content": "Which sites do you submit to? If you don’t mind me asking ." }, { "id": "t1_om99ilj", "author": "/u/Sony_a7c", "updated": "2026-05-17T05:28:19+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tf2yl6/has_anyone_built_a_passive_income_stream_that/om99ilj/", "content": "I started with Shutterstock and the returns were much better in the beginning, but they reduced their payout down to 10c/image so they've become the biggest a**hole on the block, they're not worth the time or effort. Istock and Adobe Stock pay out higher rates." }, { "id": "t1_ombzdoe", "author": "/u/TheLastStarMaker", "updated": "2026-05-17T16:38:36+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tf2yl6/has_anyone_built_a_passive_income_stream_that/ombzdoe/", "content": "Thank you :)" }, { "id": "t1_omtuul8", "author": "/u/ai-techguy001", "updated": "2026-05-20T08:42:14+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tf2yl6/has_anyone_built_a_passive_income_stream_that/omtuul8/", "content": "good to know, been wondering if shutterstock was still worth it or just coasting on old reputation." }, { "id": "t1_omaqob7", "author": "/u/pensuad", "updated": "2026-05-17T12:46:41+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tf2yl6/has_anyone_built_a_passive_income_stream_that/omaqob7/", "content": "Cool which sites are you on?" }, { "id": "t1_omhq4v2", "author": "/u/TheSellerStack", "updated": "2026-05-18T14:42:05+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tf2yl6/has_anyone_built_a_passive_income_stream_that/omhq4v2/", "content": "Very interesting. I just started with Shutterstock, but now that I read this, I probably should switch to the other parties!\n Just to be clear; your passive income is $40/month, with a portfolio of 5000 images?" }, { "id": "t1_omjbeb1", "author": "/u/Sony_a7c", "updated": "2026-05-18T19:19:55+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tf2yl6/has_anyone_built_a_passive_income_stream_that/omjbeb1/", "content": "The portfolio is 3000 images, but about 2000 are uploaded and keyworded at the same time into the second agency. I could get better income with less images if I researched what buyers really want. The same images sell again and again, while many do nothing. But I just photograph what I like when I see it, I don't try too hard to cater to a market." }, { "id": "t1_ommzxxn", "author": "/u/TheSellerStack", "updated": "2026-05-19T09:13:28+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tf2yl6/has_anyone_built_a_passive_income_stream_that/ommzxxn/", "content": "Really great. Thanks for elaborating." }, { "id": "t1_om8h9ti", "author": "/u/BMRr", "updated": "2026-05-17T02:04:02+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tf2yl6/has_anyone_built_a_passive_income_stream_that/om8h9ti/", "content": "You’re excited about 40 a month? Lol" }, { "id": "t1_om8jjdu", "author": "/u/Big_NO222", "updated": "2026-05-17T02:18:40+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tf2yl6/has_anyone_built_a_passive_income_stream_that/om8jjdu/", "content": "Be quiet. It's half a tank of gas and they don't have to do anything for it." }, { "id": "t1_om8u6z9", "author": "/u/Sony_a7c", "updated": "2026-05-17T03:31:29+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tf2yl6/has_anyone_built_a_passive_income_stream_that/om8u6z9/", "content": "Are you judging? Yeah, I'm excited about it. It's free money forever. I've paid off an expensive personal loan with it, which has had the effect of releasing the debt-servicing money back into our lives, that's $500 per month. And i still have that $40/month passive coming in. And it's growing as I add more photos." }, { "id": "t1_om9iqva", "author": "/u/Beautiful_Baguette22", "updated": "2026-05-17T06:48:39+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tf2yl6/has_anyone_built_a_passive_income_stream_that/om9iqva/", "content": "Can you give me $40/month please if $40 is not big deal for you?" }, { "id": "t1_om9hxhw", "author": "/u/preparetodobattle", "updated": "2026-05-17T06:41:34+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tf2yl6/has_anyone_built_a_passive_income_stream_that/om9hxhw/", "content": "Would you pick up fourth bucks if you saw it on the ground? He does that every month" }, { "id": "t1_om9xuzg", "author": "/u/Bynx_07", "updated": "2026-05-17T09:05:11+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tf2yl6/has_anyone_built_a_passive_income_stream_that/om9xuzg/", "content": "Damn, BMRr hook it up then 🪝" }, { "id": "t1_omapsdg", "author": "/u/smoke2957", "updated": "2026-05-17T12:41:21+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tf2yl6/has_anyone_built_a_passive_income_stream_that/omapsdg/", "content": "If you saw 40 bucks on the ground you would not pick it up? Your perspective...oof" }, { "id": "t1_oma61zp", "author": "/u/Nanban-jin", "updated": "2026-05-17T10:18:35+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tf2yl6/has_anyone_built_a_passive_income_stream_that/oma61zp/", "content": "This is quite nice, congrats. Question: have you notice any decline since the genAI tools for images?" }, { "id": "t1_omd00su", "author": "/u/Sony_a7c", "updated": "2026-05-17T19:47:54+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tf2yl6/has_anyone_built_a_passive_income_stream_that/omd00su/", "content": "I expected the income to drop off more than it has, and I'm sure it will one day. Some months start out a bit quiet and roar back into life. But I take the view that any of this money is free, so I'm grateful for it." }, { "id": "t1_omgbq2g", "author": "/u/ai-techguy001", "updated": "2026-05-18T09:27:03+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tf2yl6/has_anyone_built_a_passive_income_stream_that/omgbq2g/", "content": "$40/month for 10 years is actually solid when you think about the total payout vs the work you put in upfront." }, { "id": "t1_omgo50c", "author": "/u/Sony_a7c", "updated": "2026-05-18T11:08:29+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tf2yl6/has_anyone_built_a_passive_income_stream_that/omgo50c/", "content": "They're photos that I take anyway, because I always have my camera on me and I love seeing patterns and angles and light, so the income is a bonus. The keywording is the slow bit, but you can batch keyword if you have lots of images of the same subject. And you can copy keywords between stock websites, cutting down time." }, { "id": "t1_omlfar6", "author": "/u/xixxious", "updated": "2026-05-19T02:04:53+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tf2yl6/has_anyone_built_a_passive_income_stream_that/omlfar6/", "content": "Thank you! Can you give a couple of examples of keywords? Are they generic, metaphorical, imagistic....?" }, { "id": "t1_omm996c", "author": "/u/Sony_a7c", "updated": "2026-05-19T05:19:12+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tf2yl6/has_anyone_built_a_passive_income_stream_that/omm996c/", "content": "https://imstocker.com/en/keyworder is one of many tools which can provide related keywords to your ideas. But I think in bunches of themes, like this:\n Photo of a running tap:\n Tap, water, running water, faucet liquid, fluid, flowing, flow water security, water safety covid, covid 19, coronavirus clean, wash hands, washing hands, clean your hands, clean hands abundance, 1st world, 3rd world, infrastructure germs, germaphobe, germaphobic\n So I'm listing positive and negative aspects of the image, starting with factual matter and widening out to more abstract concepts. The key is to think like a buyer and try to guess their search terms.\n Also, coming from New Zealand, I have to think of language that we don't use here but is common in the US, like 'faucet'." }, { "id": "t1_omrv24p", "author": "/u/xixxious", "updated": "2026-05-20T00:18:42+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tf2yl6/has_anyone_built_a_passive_income_stream_that/omrv24p/", "content": "Thank you so much!!!" }, { "id": "t1_omu1jkv", "author": "/u/Lonely-Chest-5350", "updated": "2026-05-20T09:41:00+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tf2yl6/has_anyone_built_a_passive_income_stream_that/omu1jkv/", "content": "Damn this is cool" }, { "id": "t1_omo25y3", "author": "/u/PeteGoua", "updated": "2026-05-19T13:29:11+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tf2yl6/has_anyone_built_a_passive_income_stream_that/omo25y3/", "content": "That is a horrible return on investment ( time and effort).\n It takes at least 4 minutes to upload an image and classify and add content. . 5000 photos @ 2 minutes Taking the photos , editing, transferring. for $40 a month." }, { "id": "t1_omqcjhv", "author": "/u/OCaptainAwesome", "updated": "2026-05-19T19:43:41+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tf2yl6/has_anyone_built_a_passive_income_stream_that/omqcjhv/", "content": "If you ask most hobby photographers, I am fairly certain they would be very happy with the idea of making around 5k for a few weeks of total work over the span of 10 years. Yes, there is a heavy front load. But after that, you just sit.\n Sometimes perspective is all you need. Of course it won't compare to the machine of our main investments. But 40$/monthly can make a massive change over 20-25 years (we are talking about numbers like 30k over 25 years). The ROI will just keep increasing with time. Don't underestimate that factor." }, { "id": "t1_omqg2em", "author": "/u/Sony_a7c", "updated": "2026-05-19T19:59:36+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tf2yl6/has_anyone_built_a_passive_income_stream_that/omqg2em/", "content": "It depends what you do with your $40/month. Reinvesting every cent turns it into a little income-generating flywheel.\n And it's 3000 photos, but 2000 of them are cross-uploaded in a different stock agency." }, { "id": "t1_om6snlo", "author": "/u/HeavyStudent3193", "updated": "2026-05-16T20:06:37+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tf2yl6/has_anyone_built_a_passive_income_stream_that/om6snlo/", "content": "The internet changes constantly, but solving persistent human problems tends to age much better than chasing temporary platform mechanics." }, { "id": "t1_om9m27z", "author": "/u/AnyButterfly5219", "updated": "2026-05-17T07:17:41+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tf2yl6/has_anyone_built_a_passive_income_stream_that/om9m27z/", "content": "this is very well said honestly one of the best pieces of advice. as long as you’re solving a problem for someone else, there will always be money there. so stuff like driving schools, nursing homes, daycares, etc. these all pay well and there will always be a need for these things. nonetheless good facilities." }, { "id": "t1_om7maod", "author": "/u/TheAmazingAriachnid", "updated": "2026-05-16T22:51:47+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tf2yl6/has_anyone_built_a_passive_income_stream_that/om7maod/", "content": "Yeah! I made music for a while years ago, compiled everything I made / recorded from high school and college and turned them into full albums and published them to various streaming services. I get about $100-$500 a month, at only 3k to 12k monthly listeners (stats from Spotify)\n I put them out because it was fun, and I wanted to be able to listen to my atmospheric loops on repeat. I never expected to get a consistent following (currently at 6.7k monthly listeners).\n I do not market or do anything other than publish the music when I get some free time and the hankering to do so." }, { "id": "t1_om9xtqe", "author": "/u/weeeaaa", "updated": "2026-05-17T09:04:52+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tf2yl6/has_anyone_built_a_passive_income_stream_that/om9xtqe/", "content": "Now you got me curious. Got a link to your album?" }, { "id": "t1_ombdiqe", "author": "/u/TheAmazingAriachnid", "updated": "2026-05-17T14:49:39+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tf2yl6/has_anyone_built_a_passive_income_stream_that/ombdiqe/", "content": "Sure! Here is my favorite, my Fallout soundtrack cover album.\n Please keep in mind I am not pro, I just do it for fun 😅\n Here!" }, { "id": "t1_omcaio8", "author": "/u/TheLastStarMaker", "updated": "2026-05-17T17:32:55+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tf2yl6/has_anyone_built_a_passive_income_stream_that/omcaio8/", "content": "Do you have a link for another streaming platform or site? I don’t use Spotify." }, { "id": "t1_omclapa", "author": "/u/TheAmazingAriachnid", "updated": "2026-05-17T18:32:40+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tf2yl6/has_anyone_built_a_passive_income_stream_that/omclapa/", "content": "CyberSiren on platforms, look for the albums The Fallout, and atmosphere tracks. There are other people using the same name too, so it gets a bit muddy." }, { "id": "t1_omcw9o8", "author": "/u/TheLastStarMaker", "updated": "2026-05-17T19:28:44+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tf2yl6/has_anyone_built_a_passive_income_stream_that/omcw9o8/", "content": "Thank you :) I’ll definitely have a listen" }, { "id": "t1_omdn1gs", "author": "/u/TheLastStarMaker", "updated": "2026-05-17T21:48:30+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tf2yl6/has_anyone_built_a_passive_income_stream_that/omdn1gs/", "content": "I did enjoy your Fallout tracks, definitely gave me that feeling of the Fallout series on AMZ. 2 of those tracks sure got a lot of listens on YouTube Music, I can see why. Do you mind me asking who you used as a distributor for your music?" }, { "id": "t1_omdn8dh", "author": "/u/TheAmazingAriachnid", "updated": "2026-05-17T21:49:34+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tf2yl6/has_anyone_built_a_passive_income_stream_that/omdn8dh/", "content": "Thanks!! I appreciate it 😁 I used Distrokid, fairly cheap and very easy to use.\n Edit to add: I had no idea i had so many plays on YouTube music! I never looked before" }, { "id": "t1_omdw1h1", "author": "/u/TheLastStarMaker", "updated": "2026-05-17T22:40:57+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tf2yl6/has_anyone_built_a_passive_income_stream_that/omdw1h1/", "content": "Oh yeah, millions on one and the other was over 105 million, but I can definitely see why, not only are they enjoyable, but you have people who are huge Fallout fans so when the series comes around, the video games, fallout being involved with MTG, you get all that free traffic. Congrats to you :) Thank you for the info." }, { "id": "t1_omlcwgh", "author": "/u/Blak5wan23", "updated": "2026-05-19T01:51:34+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tf2yl6/has_anyone_built_a_passive_income_stream_that/omlcwgh/", "content": "I enjoy your music 😊" }, { "id": "t1_omlfvxu", "author": "/u/TheAmazingAriachnid", "updated": "2026-05-19T02:08:18+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tf2yl6/has_anyone_built_a_passive_income_stream_that/omlfvxu/", "content": "Aw, thanks! I don't usually get direct feedback because I hid it from everyone I know in person 😂" }, { "id": "t1_omnh5a7", "author": "/u/Fun_Necessary_4763", "updated": "2026-05-19T11:28:06+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tf2yl6/has_anyone_built_a_passive_income_stream_that/omnh5a7/", "content": "How do you make these? Soundtrack is awesome!" }, { "id": "t1_omoiqy5", "author": "/u/TheAmazingAriachnid", "updated": "2026-05-19T14:49:11+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tf2yl6/has_anyone_built_a_passive_income_stream_that/omoiqy5/", "content": "I used to have a laptop with a software that allowed you to hook up a piano keyboard, and play notes on that then change the notes to be different instruments and layer the tracks, etc. It was mostly me dinking around and tapping away then seeing what instruments I could turn it into" }, { "id": "t1_omou93k", "author": "/u/Fun_Necessary_4763", "updated": "2026-05-19T15:41:23+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tf2yl6/has_anyone_built_a_passive_income_stream_that/omou93k/", "content": "Well you did great! This was really cool to see" }, { "id": "t1_omce3rd", "author": "/u/Outside-Capital-8313", "updated": "2026-05-17T17:52:13+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tf2yl6/has_anyone_built_a_passive_income_stream_that/omce3rd/", "content": "Which services you use" }, { "id": "t1_omckz3b", "author": "/u/TheAmazingAriachnid", "updated": "2026-05-17T18:30:46+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tf2yl6/has_anyone_built_a_passive_income_stream_that/omckz3b/", "content": "I upload to most services: Tidal, Pandora, Apple, Amazon, Spotify, etc." }, { "id": "t1_omce6c0", "author": "/u/Outside-Capital-8313", "updated": "2026-05-17T17:52:37+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tf2yl6/has_anyone_built_a_passive_income_stream_that/omce6c0/", "content": "I meant which platform?" }, { "id": "t1_omce9j1", "author": "/u/Outside-Capital-8313", "updated": "2026-05-17T17:53:08+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tf2yl6/has_anyone_built_a_passive_income_stream_that/omce9j1/", "content": "Did you have to copyright your music first before uploading it?" }, { "id": "t1_omcl3ml", "author": "/u/TheAmazingAriachnid", "updated": "2026-05-17T18:31:31+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tf2yl6/has_anyone_built_a_passive_income_stream_that/omcl3ml/", "content": "I get cover licenses, but I don't worry too much about other licensing because it was really just for fun, and I dont mind if people want to use it for bigger projects" }, { "id": "t1_omnsq0s", "author": "/u/Afraid-Oil8433", "updated": "2026-05-19T12:38:37+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tf2yl6/has_anyone_built_a_passive_income_stream_that/omnsq0s/", "content": "WOW!! 🤩 That sounds great 🎼 🎶" }, { "id": "t1_om70rv6", "author": "/u/FatherOften", "updated": "2026-05-16T20:49:45+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tf2yl6/has_anyone_built_a_passive_income_stream_that/om70rv6/", "content": "We have invested millions in the last 3 years into oil and gas wells here in Texas as well as leasing various surface rights. Quarterly checks are usually in the 6 figures. Comstock has come into our area and started redrilling our old wells much deeper and now they are continuously producing higher and higher." }, { "id": "t1_om906kk", "author": "/u/Additional_Ad_2086", "updated": "2026-05-17T04:14:18+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tf2yl6/has_anyone_built_a_passive_income_stream_that/om906kk/", "content": "Sounds like an episode of Landman." }, { "id": "t1_om969bh", "author": "/u/theforestwizards", "updated": "2026-05-17T05:01:23+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tf2yl6/has_anyone_built_a_passive_income_stream_that/om969bh/", "content": "Billy Bob thornton is that you?" }, { "id": "t1_om7l0li", "author": "/u/Signal-Original8207", "updated": "2026-05-16T22:44:17+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tf2yl6/has_anyone_built_a_passive_income_stream_that/om7l0li/", "content": "This was smart!" }, { "id": "t1_om9hgsf", "author": "/u/DovhPasty", "updated": "2026-05-17T06:37:29+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tf2yl6/has_anyone_built_a_passive_income_stream_that/om9hgsf/", "content": "I mean yeah, if you start out with millions of dollars, there are lots of ways to make passive money. The rich always get richer." }, { "id": "t1_omb69bv", "author": "/u/FatherOften", "updated": "2026-05-17T14:12:11+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tf2yl6/has_anyone_built_a_passive_income_stream_that/omb69bv/", "content": "I agree\n I started as a 12 year old run away orphan, that made every bad decision one could make.\n Ill be 48 on the 24th. It was a ling road just to come back into society after my childhood. Then I started having children with someone I should never had been with. 7+ years long divorce after 15 years of marriage and 6 kids. Completely wiped out, at rock bottom. Met my now wife and her 3 kids. Had a child together....yup making a total of 10 kids.\n Then started a business with zero. Walked through hell for 10 years to earn the ability to be "rich" enough to invest millions.\n You can do it to. Go build undeniable skills, knowledge, experience, and character. Then understand nobody's coming to save you. Life will never be fair, and time will do the heaviest lifting if you allow it. Money is not the most important thing in the world but it is up there with oxygen as far as tools go." }, { "id": "t1_oma7yhj", "author": "/u/oneninefourfour", "updated": "2026-05-17T10:34:43+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tf2yl6/has_anyone_built_a_passive_income_stream_that/oma7yhj/", "content": "We did this and the company we invested in went bankrupt (expanded too fast/overspent) and we lost all our investments. Luckily we didn’t put too much in it but we knew people who gave millions like yourself. The guy who ran the oil leasing company was sued and went to jail." }, { "id": "t1_omb4x2m", "author": "/u/FatherOften", "updated": "2026-05-17T14:05:08+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tf2yl6/has_anyone_built_a_passive_income_stream_that/omb4x2m/", "content": "Absolutely a possibility. Its a very high risk high reward niche. My wife runs all investments outside of our primary business. Its the massive engine that fuels all other streams.\n We started with simple, small self storage developments as our main business grew. Then some larger RV parks. Then some industrial-commercial real estate developments. Along the way we were investigating in other things. Between the handful of people we met along the way, her family history, and luck with the investments, we were pulled into various oil and gas projects. I believe we still are in 26 wells, we own a bit over 21k acres mostly across Texas, and a bit in other places. We stopped all real estate developments (commercial, self storage) for the time being.\n Not all of the wells produced as much or as fast as we hoped. Some not as consistently. All together I think its just part of our path. It brings in great returns, but our primary business does more every 24 hours. Our focus stays on building businesses, the other stuff is what we do with the overflow. 50% of everything goes into charitable causes, 49% reinvested into business or investments, 1% live on. Now that's been this 10 year plan, it changes next May." }, { "id": "t1_om7ywns", "author": "/u/CheatCodeWealth", "updated": "2026-05-17T00:07:14+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tf2yl6/has_anyone_built_a_passive_income_stream_that/om7ywns/", "content": "Is there a way for an unaccredited investor to get involved in wells?" }, { "id": "t1_om9ja5y", "author": "/u/DovhPasty", "updated": "2026-05-17T06:53:18+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tf2yl6/has_anyone_built_a_passive_income_stream_that/om9ja5y/", "content": "Step 1, get millions. Come on man, it’s easy." }, { "id": "t1_ombdvi2", "author": "/u/CheatCodeWealth", "updated": "2026-05-17T14:51:28+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tf2yl6/has_anyone_built_a_passive_income_stream_that/ombdvi2/", "content": "Dang I never thought of that lol" }, { "id": "t1_om80fl7", "author": "/u/FatherOften", "updated": "2026-05-17T00:16:45+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tf2yl6/has_anyone_built_a_passive_income_stream_that/om80fl7/", "content": "Not that I know of, but I have not specifically researched that anytime recently." }, { "id": "t1_omk3cff", "author": "/u/Legal_Possible_1323", "updated": "2026-05-18T21:33:02+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tf2yl6/has_anyone_built_a_passive_income_stream_that/omk3cff/", "content": "No, but there are investments that you can get without accreditation that provide nearly the huge same tax advantages and still return 25% or more.\n I'm working with fully managed, done-for-you short term rentals, you can get for 60K down, and depending on your income bracket, your tax savings that first year are tremendous." }, { "id": "t1_omkddz3", "author": "/u/Shayne-Regan843", "updated": "2026-05-18T22:27:24+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tf2yl6/has_anyone_built_a_passive_income_stream_that/omkddz3/", "content": "How did you get started with this? Can you DM me and give me some guidance??" }, { "id": "t1_omxpmk5", "author": "/u/Legal_Possible_1323", "updated": "2026-05-20T20:50:44+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tf2yl6/has_anyone_built_a_passive_income_stream_that/omxpmk5/", "content": "I sent you a DM per your request." }, { "id": "t1_om7q2et", "author": "/u/BobbyStretch", "updated": "2026-05-16T23:13:43+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tf2yl6/has_anyone_built_a_passive_income_stream_that/om7q2et/", "content": "I designed a few books years ago. I didn't write them but I did layout and some research so I get royalties from them but they're all years old so I still make a few bucks a month. Not a whole lot." }, { "id": "t1_omayrqe", "author": "/u/Cat727", "updated": "2026-05-17T13:32:11+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tf2yl6/has_anyone_built_a_passive_income_stream_that/omayrqe/", "content": "About 9 years ago I made tshirt designs on Amazon merch. I get $50-$100 a month for work I did and haven’t touched since. I’m contemplating picking it back up and adding more." }, { "id": "t1_omfdhl5", "author": "/u/Nice-Aardvark5254", "updated": "2026-05-18T04:27:46+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tf2yl6/has_anyone_built_a_passive_income_stream_that/omfdhl5/", "content": "Can you tell me how you did it?" }, { "id": "t1_om6mrry", "author": "/u/SecretLength192", "updated": "2026-05-16T19:35:38+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tf2yl6/has_anyone_built_a_passive_income_stream_that/om6mrry/", "content": "Well this will prob not work anywhere in the world but here in Denmark a lot of people put up little roadside “shops” where they sell all sorts of things. Although it most often is fresh fruit, vegetables, honey, jam and so on. And it is all done by trusting people will pay as there are no people managing it." }, { "id": "t1_om6x4ak", "author": "/u/Zerexdontlie", "updated": "2026-05-16T20:30:11+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tf2yl6/has_anyone_built_a_passive_income_stream_that/om6x4ak/", "content": "So it's just there with a sign and people don't steal?" }, { "id": "t1_om703q1", "author": "/u/SecretLength192", "updated": "2026-05-16T20:46:10+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tf2yl6/has_anyone_built_a_passive_income_stream_that/om703q1/", "content": "Yep, and you pay by an app. Many things funktion by trust here I will say. In supermarkets you scan everything yourself if you like and then pay and that is it." }, { "id": "t1_om81ijs", "author": "/u/SnooLobsters6766", "updated": "2026-05-17T00:23:29+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tf2yl6/has_anyone_built_a_passive_income_stream_that/om81ijs/", "content": "This is not uncommon in US West Coast semi- rural areas. Eggs, honey, firewood etc" }, { "id": "t1_om9iwoi", "author": "/u/frostygorillaz", "updated": "2026-05-17T06:50:03+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tf2yl6/has_anyone_built_a_passive_income_stream_that/om9iwoi/", "content": "Same in Indiana. Produce, eggs, etc. all on the honor system." }, { "id": "t1_oma6yqi", "author": "/u/brk413", "updated": "2026-05-17T10:26:22+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tf2yl6/has_anyone_built_a_passive_income_stream_that/oma6yqi/", "content": "Same in New England, more rural parts where people have small farms or large gardens." }, { "id": "t1_omajr0l", "author": "/u/ureshiibutter", "updated": "2026-05-17T12:02:42+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tf2yl6/has_anyone_built_a_passive_income_stream_that/omajr0l/", "content": "Same on the east coast. Just a couple miles outside the suburbs in many cases" }, { "id": "t1_omnu0ct", "author": "/u/Afraid-Oil8433", "updated": "2026-05-19T12:45:51+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tf2yl6/has_anyone_built_a_passive_income_stream_that/omnu0ct/", "content": "In the country you’ll have people selling fruits, seafood, furniture’s & clothes$$$$" }, { "id": "t1_omd98yx", "author": "/u/thebadfem", "updated": "2026-05-17T20:35:12+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tf2yl6/has_anyone_built_a_passive_income_stream_that/omd98yx/", "content": "People do this in the US too, they've been viral on ig and tik tok in the last couple years. Most of them seem to be bakeries. Some of them have cameras. It def depends on what neighborhood you're in." }, { "id": "t1_omd9ylw", "author": "/u/Zerexdontlie", "updated": "2026-05-17T20:38:51+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tf2yl6/has_anyone_built_a_passive_income_stream_that/omd9ylw/", "content": "Yeah I've seen self checkout stores without staff but this is quite interesting. I think in Japan there was something like that, the trust they had on people. It's interesting to know there's other places that's been doing it for years." }, { "id": "t1_omd9zgp", "author": "/u/Zerexdontlie", "updated": "2026-05-17T20:38:58+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tf2yl6/has_anyone_built_a_passive_income_stream_that/omd9zgp/", "content": "Yeah I've seen self checkout stores without staff but this is quite interesting. I think in Japan there was something like that, the trust they had on people. It's interesting to know there's other places that's been doing it for years." }, { "id": "t1_om8gf7u", "author": "/u/otisticRetard52", "updated": "2026-05-17T01:58:35+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tf2yl6/has_anyone_built_a_passive_income_stream_that/om8gf7u/", "content": "Same in austria, farmers sometimes sell stuff on roadsides, or a flower field where you can go and pick up flowers and then pay it by dropping money inside a box" }, { "id": "t1_om9ja0e", "author": "/u/Additional-Will-2052", "updated": "2026-05-17T06:53:16+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tf2yl6/has_anyone_built_a_passive_income_stream_that/om9ja0e/", "content": "Yeah but like, you gotta have stuff to sell in the first place. Stuff costs money. So I wouldn't really call it passive income unless you sell for more than you bought. It's more like getting some money back for stuff you would otherwise throw away after having bought it. But the net return is not really an income. It makes sense though if it's something you grow, but that stuff takes a lot of time and work, so not really passive." }, { "id": "t1_oma7jlk", "author": "/u/Low_Stress_9180", "updated": "2026-05-17T10:31:16+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tf2yl6/has_anyone_built_a_passive_income_stream_that/oma7jlk/", "content": "Tobw honest 99.999% of posts in passive income, are NOT really passive! All require work or money." }, { "id": "t1_om9qwyo", "author": "/u/SecretLength192", "updated": "2026-05-17T08:01:09+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tf2yl6/has_anyone_built_a_passive_income_stream_that/om9qwyo/", "content": "Ohhh really…a store or shop has to have things to sell. Must be breaking news 🤔\n And yes stuff cost money but it has nothing to do with it being passiv income. A stock cost money too, and ofc people sell their stuff for more than it cost them to make or buy🤦‍♂️\n You cant just get passiv income out of nothing. There Will always be some type of work involved before you can get any type of passiv income.\n A vending machine is passiv income in my world, but you still have to fill it up sometimes and go and collection your money.\n If you plant fruit trees and flower beds for people to come and get for themself, it is passiv income too. Yes you do have to do some little work, but for the most part the system run by itself." }, { "id": "t1_omai5up", "author": "/u/Bewater35", "updated": "2026-05-17T11:51:50+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tf2yl6/has_anyone_built_a_passive_income_stream_that/omai5up/", "content": "You probably dont travel but i have seen this in a lot of European countries not only in Denmark and this is not passive income, you need to work to get those goods done and then you need to work again to put them on sale like in a real shop." }, { "id": "t1_omajlw1", "author": "/u/SecretLength192", "updated": "2026-05-17T12:01:45+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tf2yl6/has_anyone_built_a_passive_income_stream_that/omajlw1/", "content": "Haha what an odd statement 🤔 I have been traveling a lot and I have seen this in many other places yes. But it is a fact that it will not be possible in any place of the world. Did not in any way say it could not be done outside Denmark.\n Okay that is your view on passiv income. Mine is different and that is okay. You can make those “shops” with very little effort." }, { "id": "t1_omd9elg", "author": "/u/thebadfem", "updated": "2026-05-17T20:35:59+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tf2yl6/has_anyone_built_a_passive_income_stream_that/omd9elg/", "content": "Lol these aren't even rare, they're all over." }, { "id": "t1_omderpb", "author": "/u/SecretLength192", "updated": "2026-05-17T21:03:42+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tf2yl6/has_anyone_built_a_passive_income_stream_that/omderpb/", "content": "No one said they were" }, { "id": "t1_omdmapc", "author": "/u/thebadfem", "updated": "2026-05-17T21:44:24+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tf2yl6/has_anyone_built_a_passive_income_stream_that/omdmapc/", "content": "It was implied: "But it is a fact that it will not be possible in any place of the world."" }, { "id": "t1_omdpm7m", "author": "/u/SecretLength192", "updated": "2026-05-17T22:03:07+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tf2yl6/has_anyone_built_a_passive_income_stream_that/omdpm7m/", "content": "And that is a fact 🤷‍♂️ it cant be done everywhere. It does not implie anything els. You did that on your own.\n Just as it is not possible anywhere in Denmark, and the same goes for Canada and the rest of the world." }, { "id": "t1_omeac72", "author": "/u/thebadfem", "updated": "2026-05-18T00:09:16+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tf2yl6/has_anyone_built_a_passive_income_stream_that/omeac72/", "content": "Nah it was implied." }, { "id": "t1_omeawhv", "author": "/u/SecretLength192", "updated": "2026-05-18T00:12:54+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tf2yl6/has_anyone_built_a_passive_income_stream_that/omeawhv/", "content": "🤦‍♂️" }, { "id": "t1_ombg1w6", "author": "/u/msmcabre", "updated": "2026-05-17T15:02:29+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tf2yl6/has_anyone_built_a_passive_income_stream_that/ombg1w6/", "content": "We have this in Canada too, in the county" }, { "id": "t1_om7puc5", "author": "/u/couplecraze", "updated": "2026-05-16T23:12:22+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tf2yl6/has_anyone_built_a_passive_income_stream_that/om7puc5/", "content": "Yes, my online courses and affiliate income. 6 years already and hoping it never dies, but I always have multiple sources just in case. Also, IMO there is nothing "passive", even investing requires spending time opening an account, learning a thing or two about stocks, monitoring from time to time, etc.\n My courses aren't passive as in I spent a lot brainstorming, filming, editing & publishing, but once they're up, they become passive. Same with affiliates. I had to create the content first and that wasn't passive, but once the videos published, I earn passively from people who watch & click." }, { "id": "t1_om7xyml", "author": "/u/Supertouchy", "updated": "2026-05-17T00:01:19+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tf2yl6/has_anyone_built_a_passive_income_stream_that/om7xyml/", "content": "How much are they making?" }, { "id": "t1_omdeavg", "author": "/u/couplecraze", "updated": "2026-05-17T21:01:14+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tf2yl6/has_anyone_built_a_passive_income_stream_that/omdeavg/", "content": "It fluctuates every month, but let's say on average $450-$500. Some months I've made $200 some months $800, it depends on the season." }, { "id": "t1_om9jhxb", "author": "/u/Additional-Will-2052", "updated": "2026-05-17T06:55:12+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tf2yl6/has_anyone_built_a_passive_income_stream_that/om9jhxb/", "content": "What's your courses about?" }, { "id": "t1_omdehx5", "author": "/u/couplecraze", "updated": "2026-05-17T21:02:16+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tf2yl6/has_anyone_built_a_passive_income_stream_that/omdehx5/", "content": "Mostly beginner courses on video editing and content creation." }, { "id": "t1_omdg7p9", "author": "/u/Lucky_Office_1417", "updated": "2026-05-17T21:11:20+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tf2yl6/has_anyone_built_a_passive_income_stream_that/omdg7p9/", "content": "[ Removed by Reddit ]" }, { "id": "t1_omq4tkg", "author": "/u/blueeyed_lc", "updated": "2026-05-19T19:08:46+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tf2yl6/has_anyone_built_a_passive_income_stream_that/omq4tkg/", "content": "Where are you posting your courses? I want to create one for my business and sell it, but don't know the best platform(s)." }, { "id": "t1_omqosxi", "author": "/u/couplecraze", "updated": "2026-05-19T20:38:24+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tf2yl6/has_anyone_built_a_passive_income_stream_that/omqosxi/", "content": "Udemy & skillshare, but if you're trying to promote your own business, better to self-host. Those platforms don't allow much self promotion." }, { "id": "t1_omqpwnn", "author": "/u/blueeyed_lc", "updated": "2026-05-19T20:43:14+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tf2yl6/has_anyone_built_a_passive_income_stream_that/omqpwnn/", "content": "Good to know, thank you. I mean, I do want to promote my business, BUT I'm fine with the course itself being its own income stream. The course would sort of be an alternative to the service I provide (course=more generic info, my services=much more personalized). I might try it out to see how things go. Appreciate it." }, { "id": "t1_omu1icw", "author": "/u/couplecraze", "updated": "2026-05-20T09:40:42+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tf2yl6/has_anyone_built_a_passive_income_stream_that/omu1icw/", "content": "I'd say to start with Udemy. Courses have to be at least 30 minutes long (10 minutes on Skillshare), but the barrier to entry is lower. Skillshare's moderation is very strict and you only have 3 "chances" or strikes you can get. Udemy is more chill in that regard." }, { "id": "t1_om8vjta", "author": "/u/Unlikely_Two4259", "updated": "2026-05-17T03:41:09+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tf2yl6/has_anyone_built_a_passive_income_stream_that/om8vjta/", "content": "Take any income you have created, take a portion put into companies the pay a monthly dividend. Even 25 a month. For every 1.00 you out in expect an average of .01 a month.. Don't sound like much but it adds up . Just saying." }, { "id": "t1_om9l6vo", "author": "/u/1victorysharp", "updated": "2026-05-17T07:10:00+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tf2yl6/has_anyone_built_a_passive_income_stream_that/om9l6vo/", "content": "Do you mind to explain more" }, { "id": "t1_ombgdxq", "author": "/u/Kooky_Mountain_8320", "updated": "2026-05-17T15:04:09+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tf2yl6/has_anyone_built_a_passive_income_stream_that/ombgdxq/", "content": "Take the money you made and have the money work for you. Great advice! That one works for me!" }, { "id": "t1_ome9f61", "author": "/u/Unlikely_Two4259", "updated": "2026-05-18T00:03:23+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tf2yl6/has_anyone_built_a_passive_income_stream_that/ome9f61/", "content": "Excellent 👌" }, { "id": "t1_om9pdww", "author": "/u/the95th", "updated": "2026-05-17T07:47:27+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tf2yl6/has_anyone_built_a_passive_income_stream_that/om9pdww/", "content": "What’s your picks?" }, { "id": "t1_omca8a9", "author": "/u/Unlikely_Two4259", "updated": "2026-05-17T17:31:27+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tf2yl6/has_anyone_built_a_passive_income_stream_that/omca8a9/", "content": "My picks . To create a dividend machine with consistent payments. Go look at these guys . Wk1- IVVW, Wk2-SCM, Wk3-QQQI, Qk4-CSWC. These work for me ! These pay monthly, by staggering the weeks as such , you will get a payday every week for 52 weeks a year. You might have to add APLE ( a 2nd week payer for the two 5 week months ) . Then continue to buy these ." }, { "id": "t1_omcat9t", "author": "/u/Unlikely_Two4259", "updated": "2026-05-17T17:34:27+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tf2yl6/has_anyone_built_a_passive_income_stream_that/omcat9t/", "content": "The first an foremost thing to do . Buy the book" The Intelligent Investor"/Bejiman Graham. Or anything by William O'Neil. There is your start .." }, { "id": "t1_omcbrwp", "author": "/u/the95th", "updated": "2026-05-17T17:39:34+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tf2yl6/has_anyone_built_a_passive_income_stream_that/omcbrwp/", "content": "Cheers" }, { "id": "t1_omhn00x", "author": "/u/funklab", "updated": "2026-05-18T14:27:18+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tf2yl6/has_anyone_built_a_passive_income_stream_that/omhn00x/", "content": "12% annual dividends is not sustainable." }, { "id": "t1_omj7g0w", "author": "/u/Unlikely_Two4259", "updated": "2026-05-18T18:59:54+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tf2yl6/has_anyone_built_a_passive_income_stream_that/omj7g0w/", "content": "Okay ? That's what I thought." }, { "id": "t1_oma1261", "author": "/u/Additional_Chain4536", "updated": "2026-05-17T09:34:46+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tf2yl6/has_anyone_built_a_passive_income_stream_that/oma1261/", "content": "Can you elaborate more on this?" }, { "id": "t1_omd8p4x", "author": "/u/thebadfem", "updated": "2026-05-17T20:32:24+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tf2yl6/has_anyone_built_a_passive_income_stream_that/omd8p4x/", "content": "They're dividend stocks" }, { "id": "t1_ome8fgv", "author": "/u/Unlikely_Two4259", "updated": "2026-05-17T23:57:08+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tf2yl6/has_anyone_built_a_passive_income_stream_that/ome8fgv/", "content": "Yes ! There is a book . The Little Book of Big Dividends / Charles Carlson. Excellent read ! Take a look." }, { "id": "t1_ome9ok4", "author": "/u/Unlikely_Two4259", "updated": "2026-05-18T00:05:04+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tf2yl6/has_anyone_built_a_passive_income_stream_that/ome9ok4/", "content": "?" }, { "id": "t1_om6o533", "author": "/u/jordan32025", "updated": "2026-05-16T19:42:57+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tf2yl6/has_anyone_built_a_passive_income_stream_that/om6o533/", "content": "Years of voluntary employee benefits sales since 2011. Still getting monthly deposits on policies I wrote back then and all the following years." }, { "id": "t1_omh9ixz", "author": "/u/Quirky_Amphibian7402", "updated": "2026-05-18T13:19:18+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tf2yl6/has_anyone_built_a_passive_income_stream_that/omh9ixz/", "content": "What is that?" }, { "id": "t1_omkmfzo", "author": "/u/frootloopsryum", "updated": "2026-05-18T23:19:28+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tf2yl6/has_anyone_built_a_passive_income_stream_that/omkmfzo/", "content": "I'm assuming they created a lot of useful tools/resources for the company out of free will, company decided it was useful and to provide ongoing compensation as long as they are using said tools/resources" }, { "id": "t1_om7w6f0", "author": "/u/Are_A_Boob", "updated": "2026-05-16T23:50:14+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tf2yl6/has_anyone_built_a_passive_income_stream_that/om7w6f0/", "content": "Back when this subreddit had a few eleven labs AI money guides, I spent a few days doing it and then stopped because of other priorities. Been meaning to get back into it because those few days of work have been paying $10-$20 a month since" }, { "id": "t1_om9lgpa", "author": "/u/knwnasrob", "updated": "2026-05-17T07:12:21+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tf2yl6/has_anyone_built_a_passive_income_stream_that/om9lgpa/", "content": "YouTube channels have been steadily giving me around $200-400 a month.\n One has 4,400 subscribers and the other 1,300 subscribers.\n Money is from a combination of affiliate links and actual YouTube revenue" }, { "id": "t1_ome7i1e", "author": "/u/ladyfreak401", "updated": "2026-05-17T23:51:14+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tf2yl6/has_anyone_built_a_passive_income_stream_that/ome7i1e/", "content": "My boyfriend has a YouTube channel as well he has 20,000 + subs and does at least one video up to 4 a day makes at least $2,300 a month" }, { "id": "t1_om9xqqu", "author": "/u/NerfYordles", "updated": "2026-05-17T09:04:07+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tf2yl6/has_anyone_built_a_passive_income_stream_that/om9xqqu/", "content": "How much time does it take monthly?" }, { "id": "t1_omakb6w", "author": "/u/ureshiibutter", "updated": "2026-05-17T12:06:28+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tf2yl6/has_anyone_built_a_passive_income_stream_that/omakb6w/", "content": "Theyre probably channels you still upload to regularly, right?" }, { "id": "t1_om7yrnd", "author": "/u/CheatCodeWealth", "updated": "2026-05-17T00:06:21+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tf2yl6/has_anyone_built_a_passive_income_stream_that/om7yrnd/", "content": "My greatest success has been with selling options, I think its because im very mathematical and analytical.\n Earning dividends and interest from bonds has been the most hands-off.\n Selling domain names has been the most up-and-down.\n Staking crypto has been interesting but the yields are lacking." }, { "id": "t1_om7n30y", "author": "/u/VictorMckay", "updated": "2026-05-16T22:56:19+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tf2yl6/has_anyone_built_a_passive_income_stream_that/om7n30y/", "content": "Yes POD design\n Real passive as I'm literally doing nothing and earn like 5-10$ per month." }, { "id": "t1_om9tyl5", "author": "/u/randman678", "updated": "2026-05-17T08:29:05+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tf2yl6/has_anyone_built_a_passive_income_stream_that/om9tyl5/", "content": "POD?" }, { "id": "t1_oma0vcl", "author": "/u/EustachiaVye", "updated": "2026-05-17T09:33:02+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tf2yl6/has_anyone_built_a_passive_income_stream_that/oma0vcl/", "content": "Print on demand" }, { "id": "t1_omb4it7", "author": "/u/VictorMckay", "updated": "2026-05-17T14:03:03+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tf2yl6/has_anyone_built_a_passive_income_stream_that/omb4it7/", "content": "Yes print on demand\n Uploaded like 60 designs in a niche in 2014 and getting 5-10$/month since then" }, { "id": "t1_ometdh0", "author": "/u/randman678", "updated": "2026-05-18T02:08:18+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tf2yl6/has_anyone_built_a_passive_income_stream_that/ometdh0/", "content": "Did you post them on Amazon merch on demand?" }, { "id": "t1_omjv0c6", "author": "/u/VictorMckay", "updated": "2026-05-18T20:53:01+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tf2yl6/has_anyone_built_a_passive_income_stream_that/omjv0c6/", "content": "No they refuse :/" }, { "id": "t1_omkq1wq", "author": "/u/she_wholaughslast", "updated": "2026-05-18T23:40:16+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tf2yl6/has_anyone_built_a_passive_income_stream_that/omkq1wq/", "content": "So then where?" }, { "id": "t1_omks5ie", "author": "/u/VictorMckay", "updated": "2026-05-18T23:52:32+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tf2yl6/has_anyone_built_a_passive_income_stream_that/omks5ie/", "content": "All main platforms like spreadsheet, redbubble, tee spring etc." }, { "id": "t1_om7w7qy", "author": "/u/tortangtalong88", "updated": "2026-05-16T23:50:28+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tf2yl6/has_anyone_built_a_passive_income_stream_that/om7w7qy/", "content": "Yup i have 5 blogs earns around 1000-1300 usd a month passively. I built them during the pandemic" }, { "id": "t1_om801xj", "author": "/u/Cazuallyballn", "updated": "2026-05-17T00:14:21+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tf2yl6/has_anyone_built_a_passive_income_stream_that/om801xj/", "content": "what do you talk about?" }, { "id": "t1_om804yv", "author": "/u/tortangtalong88", "updated": "2026-05-17T00:14:53+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tf2yl6/has_anyone_built_a_passive_income_stream_that/om804yv/", "content": "Outdoor furnitures and home office" }, { "id": "t1_om877sp", "author": "/u/Thousandshope", "updated": "2026-05-17T00:59:42+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tf2yl6/has_anyone_built_a_passive_income_stream_that/om877sp/", "content": "Oh wow! I have always wanted to blog but not sure how to make money from it. How do I go about it if I may ask?" }, { "id": "t1_omhaloe", "author": "/u/entrepreneur-2004", "updated": "2026-05-18T13:25:03+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tf2yl6/has_anyone_built_a_passive_income_stream_that/omhaloe/", "content": "Where do you host your blogs?" }, { "id": "t1_omdw7ku", "author": "/u/398409columbia", "updated": "2026-05-17T22:41:58+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tf2yl6/has_anyone_built_a_passive_income_stream_that/omdw7ku/", "content": "I put the capital I received after selling my house into a high-income portfolio. I’ve been paying rent on the house I live in now using monthly distributions from the portfolio since late 2022." }, { "id": "t1_omgzdh8", "author": "/u/ENEM_L073", "updated": "2026-05-18T12:22:14+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tf2yl6/has_anyone_built_a_passive_income_stream_that/omgzdh8/", "content": "Please share details if you can!" }, { "id": "t1_omjjxjv", "author": "/u/398409columbia", "updated": "2026-05-18T20:02:11+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tf2yl6/has_anyone_built_a_passive_income_stream_that/omjjxjv/", "content": "Here is the high-income portfolio I am using to pay my rent with distributions. Total NAV erosion for me has been -3% since Aug 2022. You can reinvest some of the distributions to mitigate that. To-date I've extracted $96.4k while receiving $104.2k in income.\n Ticker Target Weight PBDC 15.0% BIT 8.0% PFFA 10.0% QQQI 12.0% RVT 7.0% SPYI 18.0% BTCI 5.0% UTF 8.0% SRLN 6.0% USA 10.0% Cash 1.0%" }, { "id": "t1_ombh6f5", "author": "/u/Kooky_Mountain_8320", "updated": "2026-05-17T15:08:10+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tf2yl6/has_anyone_built_a_passive_income_stream_that/ombh6f5/", "content": "Promoting a beneficial health product online who is growing and patented has been very beneficial to me. Haven't been promoting it for almost a year and I'm still getting paid." }, { "id": "t1_omacary", "author": "/u/ghrivnak1", "updated": "2026-05-17T11:08:56+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tf2yl6/has_anyone_built_a_passive_income_stream_that/omacary/", "content": "Selling options which includes trading credit spreads and collecting the premium. It requires a minimum of $25k to get started." }, { "id": "t1_omd81yt", "author": "/u/Imaginary_Aioli_738", "updated": "2026-05-17T20:29:07+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tf2yl6/has_anyone_built_a_passive_income_stream_that/omd81yt/", "content": "how much is ur monthly profit usually if u dont mind sharing? and do u use 100% of ur capital?" }, { "id": "t1_omdozhd", "author": "/u/ghrivnak1", "updated": "2026-05-17T21:59:30+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tf2yl6/has_anyone_built_a_passive_income_stream_that/omdozhd/", "content": "My goal is $20,000 a month in net option premium total in 4 accounts. I sell calls on stuff I own, SPY, QQQ, JPM, IEF, TLT. I also sell naked puts like 10-15 delta 30 days to 1 year out on the same tickers. Selling naked puts takes a fair amount of capital so I do it in a large account that holds 50% treasury. I also trade put credit spreads in my Ira and a smaller taxable account where I am taking more risk trading 10-30 delta credit spreads inside 60 days. This account is cash and credit spreads only. Options are nice because you can decide the amount of risk you want to take. If you put up $25k and trade put credit spreads, you can make $500-$1000 a month very conservatively. You can make more if you take more risk. Just starting, error on the conservative side for the first few months to book winners while you learn." }, { "id": "t1_omduvau", "author": "/u/Imaginary_Aioli_738", "updated": "2026-05-17T22:33:50+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tf2yl6/has_anyone_built_a_passive_income_stream_that/omduvau/", "content": "thank you! and do u take out the profits (to live on or to invest in a business/RE etc) or do u reinvest in options trading? when did u start btw and from where did u learn it? i just started on this journey couple of weeks ago :))" }, { "id": "t1_omdyj9w", "author": "/u/ghrivnak1", "updated": "2026-05-17T22:56:01+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tf2yl6/has_anyone_built_a_passive_income_stream_that/omdyj9w/", "content": "I use the taxable profits to pay taxes and the remaining is used for living expenses and reinvestment. I started 7 years ago trading options for myself but was investing in ETFS and mutual funds for about 40 years. I have been a CFA since 1997 and worked 30 years managing fixed income money for institutional accounts for a large asset management company. My best advice is to take it slow and be conservative, don't get greedy. I have helped several of my friends get started trading options to pick up extra income. You can "use your balance sheet" as collateral to make deep out of the money trades that have a 90% chance at being profitable. Once you learn and understand, you can take more risk for larger premium collection." }, { "id": "t1_omh305r", "author": "/u/BadgerAdorable1931", "updated": "2026-05-18T12:43:40+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tf2yl6/has_anyone_built_a_passive_income_stream_that/omh305r/", "content": "Isn't this the "pickup pennies in front of a steamroller" trade?\n And why wouldn't big companies with a large financial desk be able to better price their options?\n I'm just curious, I could allocate $25k, but not sure where to start that would beat holding VT." }, { "id": "t1_omjjf0r", "author": "/u/ghrivnak1", "updated": "2026-05-18T19:59:48+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tf2yl6/has_anyone_built_a_passive_income_stream_that/omjjf0r/", "content": "I have a portfolio that holds Treasury, SPY and QQQ. I am using my balance sheet as collateral to pick up incremental option premium. My underlying portfolio is going to produce an "index like" return while the option premium by selling deep out of the money puts and calls is in addition to my index like return. If I see $100 bill laying on the ground, I am not too proud to pick it up. As I mentioned, I have a small account that I trade only credit spreads and it performs better than the s&p index but it does require some work. I am retired and have time to trade it so it is more like a toy for me." }, { "id": "t1_omb9mon", "author": "/u/WealthEquityPro", "updated": "2026-05-17T14:29:41+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tf2yl6/has_anyone_built_a_passive_income_stream_that/omb9mon/", "content": "Real estate rental income is the one that has\n worked consistently for decades.\n The key is the BRRRR method: Buy distressed →\n Rehab → Rent → Refinance → Repeat. You recycle\n the same capital into multiple properties.\n A teacher I know started with $47,000 in 2014.\n By 2024 she had 11 properties generating\n $6,800/month net. She still works — by choice.\n What makes rental income different from most\n passive income ideas:\n - Tenants pay down your mortgage every month\n - Property appreciates over time\n - Tax benefits through depreciation\n - Inflation actually works FOR you (rents rise)\n It requires upfront work to find good properties\n and tenants, but once stabilized it runs with\n minimal involvement — especially with a good\n property manager.\n Not get-rich-quick, but genuinely works long term." }, { "id": "t1_om7tpie", "author": "/u/thebitcoinmd", "updated": "2026-05-16T23:35:13+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tf2yl6/has_anyone_built_a_passive_income_stream_that/om7tpie/", "content": "Relatively new instrument but strc" }, { "id": "t1_om7z482", "author": "/u/trekkingirl", "updated": "2026-05-17T00:08:31+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tf2yl6/has_anyone_built_a_passive_income_stream_that/om7z482/", "content": "Infinite banking" }, { "id": "t1_om8lyur", "author": "/u/Unlikely_Two4259", "updated": "2026-05-17T02:34:42+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tf2yl6/has_anyone_built_a_passive_income_stream_that/om8lyur/", "content": "The only real passive is Dividends period!" }, { "id": "t1_om90jkt", "author": "/u/Jsamonroe", "updated": "2026-05-17T04:16:57+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tf2yl6/has_anyone_built_a_passive_income_stream_that/om90jkt/", "content": "Slow flips (real estate approach by selling homes via seller financing. Total game changer" }, { "id": "t1_omasa3q", "author": "/u/MoneyStoic1", "updated": "2026-05-17T12:55:57+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tf2yl6/has_anyone_built_a_passive_income_stream_that/omasa3q/", "content": "Are you able to 1031 exchange? How would that work as the funds trickle in over time?" }, { "id": "t1_ombhqlj", "author": "/u/Jsamonroe", "updated": "2026-05-17T15:11:01+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tf2yl6/has_anyone_built_a_passive_income_stream_that/ombhqlj/", "content": "Yes you can. You just pay capital gains over time as they come in" }, { "id": "t1_omaz3u6", "author": "/u/Electronic-Fold-2416", "updated": "2026-05-17T13:34:02+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tf2yl6/has_anyone_built_a_passive_income_stream_that/omaz3u6/", "content": "Real estate. Started small and continuously turned profits back into the business while working a government job.\n Net profits are 5 figures, monthly." }, { "id": "t1_ombd2pl", "author": "/u/Embarrassed_Lion3439", "updated": "2026-05-17T14:47:23+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tf2yl6/has_anyone_built_a_passive_income_stream_that/ombd2pl/", "content": "Do you still do this? I feel people who got in along time ago really benefitted before prices skyrocketed but it would be much more difficult now for someone trying this" }, { "id": "t1_omdc1pe", "author": "/u/Electronic-Fold-2416", "updated": "2026-05-17T20:49:34+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tf2yl6/has_anyone_built_a_passive_income_stream_that/omdc1pe/", "content": "I just did several 1031 exchanges while divesting from my home state as it is no longer favorable to do business here. I moved the money to more business friendly states. I then re-leveraged my funds.\n So.....yup. Still doing it!" }, { "id": "t1_oolf50i", "author": "/u/Embarrassed_Lion3439", "updated": "2026-05-29T16:08:14+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tf2yl6/has_anyone_built_a_passive_income_stream_that/oolf50i/", "content": "Wow did you have money to help you get started? Did you pretty much do long term rentals? Congrats" }, { "id": "t1_ombbk8o", "author": "/u/NoseFickle9800", "updated": "2026-05-17T14:39:40+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tf2yl6/has_anyone_built_a_passive_income_stream_that/ombbk8o/", "content": "The only passive income streams I’ve seen survive long term are ones where you own the asset — websites, email lists, software, or recurring-service businesses.\n Most “easy” methods die when algorithms/platforms change. Evergreen SEO sites and subscription models have been the most stable for me because they keep compounding over time with occasional updates." }, { "id": "t1_omcw39k", "author": "/u/jay_0804", "updated": "2026-05-17T19:27:50+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tf2yl6/has_anyone_built_a_passive_income_stream_that/omcw39k/", "content": "Yeah, but the common pattern is usually boring businesses that compound slowly, not flashy trends.\n A friend of mine built a tiny niche site around a very specific software workflow back in like 2021 and it still brings in affiliate income today. Another guy I know sells spreadsheet templates and somehow that thing just keeps printing every month lol.\n Tbh the stuff that survives long term usually solves a real recurring problem instead of chasing algorithms. The “easy money” models die fastest once everyone copies them." }, { "id": "t1_omhd4z6", "author": "/u/Alarming-Plant-6649", "updated": "2026-05-18T13:38:19+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tf2yl6/has_anyone_built_a_passive_income_stream_that/omhd4z6/", "content": "I have been doing dropshipping on eBay for 1 year now and I am earning about €800/month by dedicating 1/2 hours a day. I simply take products from Amazon and resell them on eBay at a higher price. 😅" }, { "id": "t1_omt7ae2", "author": "/u/captainmarshmello", "updated": "2026-05-20T05:20:09+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tf2yl6/has_anyone_built_a_passive_income_stream_that/omt7ae2/", "content": "Do you purchase the items and then ship them?" }, { "id": "t1_on4g82r", "author": "/u/Alarming-Plant-6649", "updated": "2026-05-21T20:19:24+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tf2yl6/has_anyone_built_a_passive_income_stream_that/on4g82r/", "content": "I ship directly to the buyer" }, { "id": "t1_on18y36", "author": "/u/Kareni_Davis", "updated": "2026-05-21T11:00:54+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tf2yl6/has_anyone_built_a_passive_income_stream_that/on18y36/", "content": "Dividend stocks if you pick boring ones and don't touch them. Been running the same positions for 4 years, adds maybe $200-300 a month, never once had to think about it." }, { "id": "t1_om6uzak", "author": "/u/Beautiful-Order-9370", "updated": "2026-05-16T20:18:52+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tf2yl6/has_anyone_built_a_passive_income_stream_that/om6uzak/", "content": "Yes, it’s giving about 1K a month more or less with minimal work. Could proper invest more time into it but works for me, and it’s easy." }, { "id": "t1_om9rm54", "author": "/u/IndependentNo3789", "updated": "2026-05-17T08:07:31+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tf2yl6/has_anyone_built_a_passive_income_stream_that/om9rm54/", "content": "Hi… what is earning you 1k a month? I had a stroke and am unable to go into a work place, but being on disability does NOT keep me afloat financially. I’m looking for whatever I can do at home. Thanks" }, { "id": "t1_om9s47k", "author": "/u/Beautiful-Order-9370", "updated": "2026-05-17T08:12:05+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tf2yl6/has_anyone_built_a_passive_income_stream_that/om9s47k/", "content": "See dm" }, { "id": "t1_oma9n1a", "author": "/u/TheTapeBroker", "updated": "2026-05-17T10:48:25+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tf2yl6/has_anyone_built_a_passive_income_stream_that/oma9n1a/", "content": "Kann ich dir schreiben?" }, { "id": "t1_om83ch1", "author": "/u/kabekew", "updated": "2026-05-17T00:35:21+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tf2yl6/has_anyone_built_a_passive_income_stream_that/om83ch1/", "content": "My stock and bond funds have been sending me free money monthly and quarterly since 2005. They just won't stop." }, { "id": "t1_oma2r01", "author": "/u/Prestigious-Gur7629", "updated": "2026-05-17T09:49:57+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tf2yl6/has_anyone_built_a_passive_income_stream_that/oma2r01/", "content": "Mine to $80k per year" }, { "id": "t1_om8csj2", "author": "/u/ProgramNo456", "updated": "2026-05-17T01:35:33+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tf2yl6/has_anyone_built_a_passive_income_stream_that/om8csj2/", "content": "Actually i don't know" }, { "id": "t1_om8yvfy", "author": "/u/Fearless_Praline_187", "updated": "2026-05-17T04:05:05+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tf2yl6/has_anyone_built_a_passive_income_stream_that/om8yvfy/", "content": "I joined a Crypto finance company and it has been really good. Solid company has been around for 3 years." }, { "id": "t1_om9gb7m", "author": "/u/gravis1982", "updated": "2026-05-17T06:27:19+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tf2yl6/has_anyone_built_a_passive_income_stream_that/om9gb7m/", "content": "Buy a business" }, { "id": "t1_om9uj8b", "author": "/u/Wild_Guess858", "updated": "2026-05-17T08:34:27+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tf2yl6/has_anyone_built_a_passive_income_stream_that/om9uj8b/", "content": "I think you did it on time now that time has passed" }, { "id": "t1_om9xdn8", "author": "/u/cockatootattoo", "updated": "2026-05-17T09:00:44+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tf2yl6/has_anyone_built_a_passive_income_stream_that/om9xdn8/", "content": "Property. It’s as passive as it gets. I was lucky to get on the ladder before the boom. Made some good choices and now just let an agent deal with it. Monthly income with practically zero input." }, { "id": "t1_omgaz35", "author": "/u/ImmediatePrompt7670", "updated": "2026-05-18T09:20:06+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tf2yl6/has_anyone_built_a_passive_income_stream_that/omgaz35/", "content": "was the startup & learning the process worth it?" }, { "id": "t1_omgccwf", "author": "/u/cockatootattoo", "updated": "2026-05-18T09:32:50+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tf2yl6/has_anyone_built_a_passive_income_stream_that/omgccwf/", "content": "It was definitely worth it for us. We fell into it really. Met my partner and we each had a property. We decided to keep them and buy a joint property. I inherited and paid off the mortgages for both those so now have no real outgoings other than agent fees. I’ve looked at it, and I’m sure I could have done equally as well, if not better investing the capital, into funds. But I like bricks and mortar so it works for us." }, { "id": "t1_omgcu3d", "author": "/u/ImmediatePrompt7670", "updated": "2026-05-18T09:37:12+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tf2yl6/has_anyone_built_a_passive_income_stream_that/omgcu3d/", "content": "Congratulations i’m glad your business endeavors worked out well. Although I’m interested into buying real estate for passive income at the moment but really in a way where I can find something passionate I can do as well" }, { "id": "t1_oma59bf", "author": "/u/No-Battle7479", "updated": "2026-05-17T10:11:49+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tf2yl6/has_anyone_built_a_passive_income_stream_that/oma59bf/", "content": "The ones that seem to last are usually not fully passive — they’re low-maintenance.\n Evergreen content, digital products, small tools, templates, and niche communities can keep earning for years, but only if they solve a real recurring problem and aren’t totally dependent on one platform.\n Most ideas die when they rely too much on an algorithm, a trend, or arbitrage.\n I made a free AI expert that helps score side income ideas based on durability, competition, platform risk, and maintenance. Pretty helpful for separating “quick cash” from something that might actually last." }, { "id": "t1_omaafvj", "author": "/u/TheTapeBroker", "updated": "2026-05-17T10:54:43+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tf2yl6/has_anyone_built_a_passive_income_stream_that/omaafvj/", "content": "Ich hab mit Claude nen Tool entwickelt der es älteren Menschen ermöglicht Dokumente zu verfassen wenn Post kommt die sonst nur der Sohn oder Enkel beantworten kann - läuft mit Spracherkennung. / Hab ebenfalls ein interaktives E Book zum Thema Impulskontrolle verfasst und überlege für beide Produkte eine faceless Instagram Seite zu starten und die beiden zu vermarkten - hab allerdings schon einen personal Brand mit 20 mio Aufrufen monatlich die ins Leere gehen da ich Comedy reels mache - es scheitert letztendlich an der Umsetzung" }, { "id": "t1_omaw4d2", "author": "/u/Chiricahua23", "updated": "2026-05-17T13:17:39+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tf2yl6/has_anyone_built_a_passive_income_stream_that/omaw4d2/", "content": "Passive 6 figures yr in yr out!" }, { "id": "t1_omd7upj", "author": "/u/ObiFloatKenobi", "updated": "2026-05-17T20:28:04+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tf2yl6/has_anyone_built_a_passive_income_stream_that/omd7upj/", "content": "You can look into AtlasEarth. It’s a virtual land monopoly like game. It’s free. I’ve been grinding for two years now watching ads and now I’m cashing out $5 a week on PayPal and reinvesting the rest back into the game (compounding the residual income). I could actually cash out about $10 a week if I wanted. Check it out. What do you have to lose (time). So the key is to watch the ads while brushing your teeth or something. Upvote please if you liked. Have a few others as well" }, { "id": "t1_omdamu3", "author": "/u/Miamiconnectionexo", "updated": "2026-05-17T20:42:19+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tf2yl6/has_anyone_built_a_passive_income_stream_that/omdamu3/", "content": "solid perspective. a lot of people overthink this but you laid it out simply." }, { "id": "t1_omeaght", "author": "/u/Grand-Vision", "updated": "2026-05-18T00:10:02+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tf2yl6/has_anyone_built_a_passive_income_stream_that/omeaght/", "content": "The ones that have lasted in my experience: digital products with genuine depth and content that compounds.\n A niche ebook or course on something you know well, sold through your own email list rather than a marketplace. Platforms change algorithms, marketplaces change fees. Your list is yours. I have products from 3-4 years ago that still sell weekly because the list keeps growing.\n Automation workflow templates with solid documentation. The market for n8n/Zapier/Make templates grows every year as adoption increases. A well-documented workflow that solves a specific business problem keeps selling because the problem does not go away.\n The common thread: the income streams that last have genuine utility that does not expire and you control the distribution channel. Both are harder to achieve but they compound differently from a trend-dependent platform play." }, { "id": "t1_omedo9p", "author": "/u/AriaMoon286", "updated": "2026-05-18T00:30:23+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tf2yl6/has_anyone_built_a_passive_income_stream_that/omedo9p/", "content": "anything that compounds on trust rather than traffic tends to survive platform changes.\n a small email list in a niche beats a big following on a platform you don't own every time" }, { "id": "t1_omfbf19", "author": "/u/Practical-Entry-2702", "updated": "2026-05-18T04:12:02+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tf2yl6/has_anyone_built_a_passive_income_stream_that/omfbf19/", "content": "I think more than platforms change units, the products will be updated or evolved as the market changes because even if there are algorithm changes, if your product is still in demand and you have created something (any book or a checklist or any content recipe, meaning only the digital token that you have created) that needs to be updated on a regular basis. Because generally it is rebranded at various places with good marketing skills so I think that will solve the issue" }, { "id": "t1_omfkgkc", "author": "/u/PsychologicalRace139", "updated": "2026-05-18T05:23:18+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tf2yl6/has_anyone_built_a_passive_income_stream_that/omfkgkc/", "content": "Referrals. Refer any company business that pays cinching residuals." }, { "id": "t1_omfrnws", "author": "/u/Jesuce1poulpe", "updated": "2026-05-18T06:24:27+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tf2yl6/has_anyone_built_a_passive_income_stream_that/omfrnws/", "content": "Digital products are the one I keep hearing about lasting the longest, stuff like templates or notion docs. what niche did you end up in?" }, { "id": "t1_omgfey2", "author": "/u/Rik93", "updated": "2026-05-18T09:59:48+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tf2yl6/has_anyone_built_a_passive_income_stream_that/omgfey2/", "content": "SEO-driven content sites are the one I keep hearing about surviving the longest when done right. what niche were you thinking, that matters more than the model itself" }, { "id": "t1_omgm0dy", "author": "/u/LandscapePossible663", "updated": "2026-05-18T10:52:57+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tf2yl6/has_anyone_built_a_passive_income_stream_that/omgm0dy/", "content": "The music streaming thing works because it requires zero maintenance once it's up, but most passive income fails because people underestimate how much active work the "passive" part actually needs, like you gotta update your content, adapt to algorithm changes, market it constantly or it just dies in the feed." }, { "id": "t1_omgn1j0", "author": "/u/TroubaDad67", "updated": "2026-05-18T11:00:29+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tf2yl6/has_anyone_built_a_passive_income_stream_that/omgn1j0/", "content": "Real estate, real estate, real estate. Especially commercial real estate.\n Example: If you can find a company that needs a warehouse to work out of. Find the warehouse they need and get it under contract. Get a 5-10 year lease from the company BEFORE you close on the warehouse. Lease is contingent on the purchase closing. Once you have that lease a bank will land you 65-75% of the OCCUPIED VALUE- not the cost. The value of a commercial building is based mostly on its income after expenses (cap rate comes into play as well), therefore if the lease is lucrative enough you might get 90% of cost or more. Or they will lend you the money to build out the tenants offices or other improvements. The cost of tenant improvements you can negotiate to roll into the rent (with interest to cover overhead).\n There are lots of other great plays in real estate. If you get good at it, the income stream will never end." }, { "id": "t1_omgzt7s", "author": "/u/Clear_Amphibian7499", "updated": "2026-05-18T12:24:53+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tf2yl6/has_anyone_built_a_passive_income_stream_that/omgzt7s/", "content": "rental properties and dividend stocks are boring but they actually stick around, everything else feels like trying to catch water lol why did the passive income investor break up with their side hustle, no chemistry" }, { "id": "t1_omhcf5v", "author": "/u/jellybean6719", "updated": "2026-05-18T13:34:35+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tf2yl6/has_anyone_built_a_passive_income_stream_that/omhcf5v/", "content": "My husband is a life insurance agent for many companies. He gets passive income early through sales made years ago." }, { "id": "t1_omivpwz", "author": "/u/FuzzyNeat4485", "updated": "2026-05-18T17:57:00+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tf2yl6/has_anyone_built_a_passive_income_stream_that/omivpwz/", "content": "I wrote a couple of articles 10yrs ago for a medical website that docs use called UpToDate, which is a subscription/pay-per-article model. I get royalty checks semi-annually, usually about $3k/yr. Super easy." }, { "id": "t1_omj2lox", "author": "/u/RDkw26", "updated": "2026-05-18T18:35:51+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tf2yl6/has_anyone_built_a_passive_income_stream_that/omj2lox/", "content": "Rental income is passive income." }, { "id": "t1_oml7aqy", "author": "/u/Fuzzy-Comparison-674", "updated": "2026-05-19T01:19:38+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tf2yl6/has_anyone_built_a_passive_income_stream_that/oml7aqy/", "content": "Real estate!!" }, { "id": "t1_omle4os", "author": "/u/Potential_Factor_570", "updated": "2026-05-19T01:58:27+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tf2yl6/has_anyone_built_a_passive_income_stream_that/omle4os/", "content": "Yes I call it investing, I put money into something called QQQm and now it makes more money that I put into it, eventually another 10-15yrs I won't have to work no more. Quite the hack." }, { "id": "t1_omociyw", "author": "/u/BetterLifeViaBetter", "updated": "2026-05-19T14:20:10+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tf2yl6/has_anyone_built_a_passive_income_stream_that/omociyw/", "content": "Yes - loans and bonds and real estate gives me a nice income" }, { "id": "t1_omqah7y", "author": "/u/Big_Carpet1734", "updated": "2026-05-19T19:34:16+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tf2yl6/has_anyone_built_a_passive_income_stream_that/omqah7y/", "content": "Yes, invest into a broad based S&P 500 index fund. Passively earning ~10%, compounding, per year (on average)." }, { "id": "t1_omu0s87", "author": "/u/ComplexBrocoli1", "updated": "2026-05-20T09:34:25+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tf2yl6/has_anyone_built_a_passive_income_stream_that/omu0s87/", "content": "not much but I get around 30 bucks from jumptask app + using honeygain for data sharing" }, { "id": "t1_on3tq1h", "author": "/u/WealthEquityPro", "updated": "2026-05-21T18:34:38+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tf2yl6/has_anyone_built_a_passive_income_stream_that/on3tq1h/", "content": "Rental real estate. 10+ years running.\n What makes it different from other\n passive income ideas:\n - Tenants pay your mortgage monthly\n - Property appreciates over time\n - Rents rise with inflation automatically\n - Tax benefits compound every year\n Is it truly passive from day 1? No.\n After setup with a property manager?\n Very close.\n One property leads to two. Two to f" }, { "id": "t1_omaipyo", "author": "/u/Firm_Willingness_598", "updated": "2026-05-17T11:55:41+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tf2yl6/has_anyone_built_a_passive_income_stream_that/omaipyo/", "content": "Only fans?" }, { "id": "t1_om9s46j", "author": "/u/Prestigious-Box-5836", "updated": "2026-05-17T08:12:05+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tf2yl6/has_anyone_built_a_passive_income_stream_that/om9s46j/", "content": "I’ve been trying to build one getting AI agents to run a business, selling different things they create. So far not one thing has sold and I’m €300 down in running costs, but I/they will keep trying different things. I’d be interested if anyone has been successful with a similar approach." }, { "id": "t1_om6v6mh", "author": "", "updated": "2026-05-16T20:19:57+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tf2yl6/has_anyone_built_a_passive_income_stream_that/om6v6mh/", "content": "[deleted]" }, { "id": "t1_om7nq2k", "author": "/u/haydenw86", "updated": "2026-05-16T23:00:03+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tf2yl6/has_anyone_built_a_passive_income_stream_that/om7nq2k/", "content": "No AI slop farming." }, { "id": "t1_om6rfuf", "author": "/u/Dramatic-Growth1335", "updated": "2026-05-16T20:00:11+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tf2yl6/has_anyone_built_a_passive_income_stream_that/om6rfuf/", "content": "I've got 100 books for sale. It's the same book but with 100 different names for the main character. Makes me £5 a month and has for 2 years so far.\n Id write some more or put the price back up as it's not affected sales but I genuinely don't have the time.\n But yeah. I should do that 100 more times." }, { "id": "t1_om6xbj5", "author": "/u/Zerexdontlie", "updated": "2026-05-16T20:31:15+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tf2yl6/has_anyone_built_a_passive_income_stream_that/om6xbj5/", "content": "Did ai write it and what about printing costs?" }, { "id": "t1_om9g5yh", "author": "/u/Dramatic-Growth1335", "updated": "2026-05-17T06:26:04+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tf2yl6/has_anyone_built_a_passive_income_stream_that/om9g5yh/", "content": "I wrote the first version for my daughter. Amazon KDP for the printing. It sells for £6 and costs £5 roughly" }, { "id": "t1_om7mkc1", "author": "/u/TheAmazingAriachnid", "updated": "2026-05-16T22:53:20+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tf2yl6/has_anyone_built_a_passive_income_stream_that/om7mkc1/", "content": "Wow, that is actually lame. Do it in different languages instead of churning out crap." } ] }, { "source": "r/passive_income top month", "id": "t3_1tba2pg", "title": "What are your best passive income ideas to earn more in 2026?", "author": "/u/javialvarez142", "updated": "2026-05-12T18:21:47+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tba2pg/what_are_your_best_passive_income_ideas_to_earn/", "content": "Hey everyone, I’m still exploring different passive income ideas and trying to figure out what’s actually worth pursuing\n Now that we’re already 5 months into 2026, what have you tried that’s worked well and what ended up being a waste of time?\n If you’ve built a passive income stream that’s doing well, I’d love to hear more about it: how you came up with the idea, how you got started, and what helped it grow successfully. Just trying to learn from people who’ve actually made it work and understand what it really took to get there!\n submitted by /u/javialvarez142\n [link] [comments]", "contentHtml": "

Hey everyone, I’m still exploring different passive income ideas and trying to figure out what’s actually worth pursuing

Now that we’re already 5 months into 2026, what have you tried that’s worked well and what ended up being a waste of time?

If you’ve built a passive income stream that’s doing well, I’d love to hear more about it: how you came up with the idea, how you got started, and what helped it grow successfully. Just trying to learn from people who’ve actually made it work and understand what it really took to get there!

submitted by /u/javialvarez142
[link] [comments]", "comments": [ { "id": "t1_olf3fnj", "author": "/u/AutoModerator", "updated": "2026-05-12T18:21:47+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tba2pg/what_are_your_best_passive_income_ideas_to_earn/olf3fnj/", "content": "Check out the Community Highlights for current and future Mod Vetted opportunities and Newsletter Episodes.\n Please do due diligence on any crypto opportunity. A simple google search could save you a fortune.\n I am a bot, and this action was performed automatically. Please contact the moderators of this subreddit if you have any questions or concerns." }, { "id": "t1_olf6o4k", "author": "", "updated": "2026-05-12T18:37:07+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tba2pg/what_are_your_best_passive_income_ideas_to_earn/olf6o4k/", "content": "[deleted]" }, { "id": "t1_olf96i2", "author": "/u/javialvarez142", "updated": "2026-05-12T18:48:20+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tba2pg/what_are_your_best_passive_income_ideas_to_earn/olf96i2/", "content": "sounds interesting, how long does it take you to build an app? i guess it depends on the type of app you’re building" }, { "id": "t1_olf9dke", "author": "/u/Bubbly-Storm6109", "updated": "2026-05-12T18:49:13+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tba2pg/what_are_your_best_passive_income_ideas_to_earn/olf9dke/", "content": "Yes. I try to build simple apps which don’t require a lot of maintenance and I make sure to do proper ASO research before. It’s like SEO but for Apple store" }, { "id": "t1_olfds9r", "author": "/u/javialvarez142", "updated": "2026-05-12T19:09:02+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tba2pg/what_are_your_best_passive_income_ideas_to_earn/olfds9r/", "content": "super useful information thanks man. can I dm you? i have a few more questions" }, { "id": "t1_olfdwjl", "author": "/u/Bubbly-Storm6109", "updated": "2026-05-12T19:09:34+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tba2pg/what_are_your_best_passive_income_ideas_to_earn/olfdwjl/", "content": "Easily, dms open" }, { "id": "t1_oliviep", "author": "/u/panic_bread", "updated": "2026-05-13T07:22:34+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tba2pg/what_are_your_best_passive_income_ideas_to_earn/oliviep/", "content": "How does one get set up to have their app in the App Store and receive payments from it?" }, { "id": "t1_oljt765", "author": "/u/ElderberryParty1816", "updated": "2026-05-13T11:48:49+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tba2pg/what_are_your_best_passive_income_ideas_to_earn/oljt765/", "content": "What’s the names of your apps?" }, { "id": "t1_ollbs0x", "author": "/u/Old_Librarian__", "updated": "2026-05-13T16:14:42+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tba2pg/what_are_your_best_passive_income_ideas_to_earn/ollbs0x/", "content": "What kind of apps did you build? And what did you monetize them with? Like subscription based, or lifetime purchase?" }, { "id": "t1_olno4ta", "author": "/u/TARRY32", "updated": "2026-05-13T22:47:09+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tba2pg/what_are_your_best_passive_income_ideas_to_earn/olno4ta/", "content": "To create apps do you use AI or is it necessary to have knowledge in coding?" }, { "id": "t1_olp6vir", "author": "/u/PepeSylvia11", "updated": "2026-05-14T04:02:01+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tba2pg/what_are_your_best_passive_income_ideas_to_earn/olp6vir/", "content": "What AI software do you use to create the app?" }, { "id": "t1_olfh21p", "author": "/u/rob_inn_hood", "updated": "2026-05-12T19:23:53+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tba2pg/what_are_your_best_passive_income_ideas_to_earn/olfh21p/", "content": "Which is the better world. Gaming apps or tool apps? I’m asking because I am a game developer, so I’m looking into making game apps, but I would focus more on tool apps if that’s better profitability, and not focus so much on just games." }, { "id": "t1_olfhh5v", "author": "", "updated": "2026-05-12T19:25:46+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tba2pg/what_are_your_best_passive_income_ideas_to_earn/olfhh5v/", "content": "[deleted]" }, { "id": "t1_olfku0q", "author": "/u/rob_inn_hood", "updated": "2026-05-12T19:41:05+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tba2pg/what_are_your_best_passive_income_ideas_to_earn/olfku0q/", "content": "Ok so volume of games of simplicity vs a few in depth games?" }, { "id": "t1_oli0j1a", "author": "/u/Bloodlustt", "updated": "2026-05-13T03:26:21+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tba2pg/what_are_your_best_passive_income_ideas_to_earn/oli0j1a/", "content": "Awesome dude! Sounds like you found what works for you." }, { "id": "t1_olml3kh", "author": "/u/coco10923", "updated": "2026-05-13T19:34:53+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tba2pg/what_are_your_best_passive_income_ideas_to_earn/olml3kh/", "content": "Can you message me the info" }, { "id": "t1_oln5eax", "author": "/u/SnarkyStanley1966", "updated": "2026-05-13T21:10:59+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tba2pg/what_are_your_best_passive_income_ideas_to_earn/oln5eax/", "content": "If I had to start all over again, or if I ever find myself in the need, this is where I would head." }, { "id": "t1_olnmtej", "author": "/u/xXFirReaXx", "updated": "2026-05-13T22:40:03+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tba2pg/what_are_your_best_passive_income_ideas_to_earn/olnmtej/", "content": "I also wanna hear more about this, can I DM you too?" }, { "id": "t1_omilfwi", "author": "", "updated": "2026-05-18T17:04:37+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tba2pg/what_are_your_best_passive_income_ideas_to_earn/omilfwi/", "content": "[deleted]" }, { "id": "t1_omis73o", "author": "/u/xXFirReaXx", "updated": "2026-05-18T17:36:04+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tba2pg/what_are_your_best_passive_income_ideas_to_earn/omis73o/", "content": "I can't remember what this was about :( can you please elaborate me." }, { "id": "t1_olgdqz0", "author": "/u/FingerPlastic5271", "updated": "2026-05-12T21:55:58+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tba2pg/what_are_your_best_passive_income_ideas_to_earn/olgdqz0/", "content": "Hi can I dm you too, I've been wanting to start an app too and I have questions" }, { "id": "t1_olhfxvx", "author": "/u/Few-Captain7361", "updated": "2026-05-13T01:25:00+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tba2pg/what_are_your_best_passive_income_ideas_to_earn/olhfxvx/", "content": "Can I dm you? I have a few more questions" }, { "id": "t1_oljjh3y", "author": "/u/wolstongill", "updated": "2026-05-13T10:44:45+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tba2pg/what_are_your_best_passive_income_ideas_to_earn/oljjh3y/", "content": "That's amazing! I have been trying building apps too but because I started with a lot of features since just the beginning none of them were completed even after months of working and now I have lost my interest on continuing them. I think I will drop them and start fresh. If you don't mind, I will DM you too to know how did you manage to not trapped in that rabbit hole! Thanks for sharing" }, { "id": "t1_ollyr7u", "author": "/u/Georgetheaff", "updated": "2026-05-13T17:55:07+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tba2pg/what_are_your_best_passive_income_ideas_to_earn/ollyr7u/", "content": "Not passive !" }, { "id": "t1_olkov6s", "author": "/u/Effective_Yam2797", "updated": "2026-05-13T14:32:24+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tba2pg/what_are_your_best_passive_income_ideas_to_earn/olkov6s/", "content": "Honestly, one thing I learned is that most “passive income” is very active in the beginning.\n One model that’s worked pretty well for me is Amazon to eBay dropshipping.\n The process is simple:\n Find products on Amazon, list them on eBay for a higher price, and when someone buys, fulfill the order and keep the difference.\n The reason I like it is because you don’t need inventory, a warehouse, or a huge upfront investment. You can build it slowly alongside work or school.\n At the start, it’s definitely not passive though. You have to learn product research, listings, pricing, and customer service. The first few months are mostly consistency and testing.\n But once you have enough listings bringing in regular sales, it becomes a lot more hands off compared to trading hours for money at a normal job.\n Biggest thing that helped it grow was treating it like a system instead of chasing random “quick money” methods every week.\n This guide explains the process pretty clearly:\n Amazon to eBay Dropshipping Simple Guide" }, { "id": "t1_olqme8i", "author": "/u/ChadTurkifiedAzeri", "updated": "2026-05-14T11:06:25+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tba2pg/what_are_your_best_passive_income_ideas_to_earn/olqme8i/", "content": "That sounds interesting! But why would someone buy the product from Ebay if that product has lower price in Amazon? Can you please explain this? I never understand this part of dropshipping" }, { "id": "t1_olrdkxw", "author": "/u/Effective_Yam2797", "updated": "2026-05-14T13:41:02+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tba2pg/what_are_your_best_passive_income_ideas_to_earn/olrdkxw/", "content": "people are to lazy to price check" }, { "id": "t1_olqpjtp", "author": "/u/FAUST_VII", "updated": "2026-05-14T11:27:19+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tba2pg/what_are_your_best_passive_income_ideas_to_earn/olqpjtp/", "content": "People are lazy and won't research" }, { "id": "t1_olrdjr5", "author": "/u/Effective_Yam2797", "updated": "2026-05-14T13:40:53+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tba2pg/what_are_your_best_passive_income_ideas_to_earn/olrdjr5/", "content": "exactly" }, { "id": "t1_onf7wg8", "author": "/u/RichiZ2", "updated": "2026-05-23T13:01:56+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tba2pg/what_are_your_best_passive_income_ideas_to_earn/onf7wg8/", "content": "Hey, so, this is both against Amazon's guidelines AND eBay's guidelines, so just know that at any point both your accounts will go bye-bye and there's no way to recover from those.\n Talking from experience." }, { "id": "t1_olfiw3i", "author": "", "updated": "2026-05-12T19:32:13+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tba2pg/what_are_your_best_passive_income_ideas_to_earn/olfiw3i/", "content": "[deleted]" }, { "id": "t1_olftv7r", "author": "/u/SkyFluid1158", "updated": "2026-05-12T20:21:50+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tba2pg/what_are_your_best_passive_income_ideas_to_earn/olftv7r/", "content": "how do you get money from instagram theme pages?" }, { "id": "t1_olhrn6h", "author": "/u/Educational_Appeal38", "updated": "2026-05-13T02:31:03+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tba2pg/what_are_your_best_passive_income_ideas_to_earn/olhrn6h/", "content": "I'd love to hear more about these." }, { "id": "t1_olj95e1", "author": "/u/gomtenen", "updated": "2026-05-13T09:22:37+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tba2pg/what_are_your_best_passive_income_ideas_to_earn/olj95e1/", "content": "If you could share a little more" }, { "id": "t1_oljk4yx", "author": "/u/emichaelides93", "updated": "2026-05-13T10:49:31+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tba2pg/what_are_your_best_passive_income_ideas_to_earn/oljk4yx/", "content": "Could you tell me more about the insta pages?" }, { "id": "t1_ollrjqq", "author": "/u/AZ_babe13", "updated": "2026-05-13T17:24:03+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tba2pg/what_are_your_best_passive_income_ideas_to_earn/ollrjqq/", "content": "Hi, I just sent you a DM :) I’d love to know more about this" }, { "id": "t1_olltbl9", "author": "/u/Mother-Box96", "updated": "2026-05-13T17:31:46+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tba2pg/what_are_your_best_passive_income_ideas_to_earn/olltbl9/", "content": "How did you monetize instagram theme pages?" }, { "id": "t1_ollud3d", "author": "/u/Mother-Box96", "updated": "2026-05-13T17:36:19+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tba2pg/what_are_your_best_passive_income_ideas_to_earn/ollud3d/", "content": "How did you monetize instagram theme pages?" }, { "id": "t1_olmh2nh", "author": "/u/Character_Knee_2392", "updated": "2026-05-13T19:16:34+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tba2pg/what_are_your_best_passive_income_ideas_to_earn/olmh2nh/", "content": "DMed you 😭🙏🏻" }, { "id": "t1_olhru93", "author": "/u/Waste-Slice8865", "updated": "2026-05-13T02:32:11+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tba2pg/what_are_your_best_passive_income_ideas_to_earn/olhru93/", "content": "I am currently selling digital workout programs to firefighters around the world. It averages around $1200/month, but some months have been up to $9k. I use IG to drive traffic to my website, where i sell digital PDFs and a few physical products like shirts and stickers.\n I grew my IG from 0 to 30k+ in a few year through reposting badass content but also adding value.\n Heres my advice:\n 1.) Your offer should actually work. It needs to add value. My workout programs work, bc i know what firefighters need bc I am one. I use the programs myself and know they work\n 2.) you need to be genuine. Dont try to fake anything you will just waste your time. I tried to sell rubber wedding bands and i ended up with 1000+ and didnt sell a single one.\n 3.) truly passive income is mostly for really rich people. We are not really rich. We are trying to get really rich (or just have some solid comfort/breathing room) therefore its going to take some effort. If ot was as easy as do this and get $1k/mo everyone would do it\n 4,) i am horribly uncreative, but i have an entrepreneurial spirit. Dont reinvent the wheel. Just see what actually is currently working, and replicate it for your niche.\n 5.) dont copy my idea, bc its already getting saturated.\n Hope this helps!" }, { "id": "t1_oll8syi", "author": "/u/That-Ad4491", "updated": "2026-05-13T16:01:29+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tba2pg/what_are_your_best_passive_income_ideas_to_earn/oll8syi/", "content": "Great to see this post! I am also selling a private 6-week performance system for ambitious women/high performers. As a professional athlete it’s something I resonate with and know I can truly help and add value.\n When I tried selling other products before becoming a professional athlete, I was only trying to get quick bucks… needless to say there wasn’t much success with that.\n So I truly agree on you need to be genuine and actually care." }, { "id": "t1_onx2nvt", "author": "/u/Limp-Collection168", "updated": "2026-05-26T05:09:54+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tba2pg/what_are_your_best_passive_income_ideas_to_earn/onx2nvt/", "content": "Bro join us on Discord, we can trade ideas" }, { "id": "t1_olg07h8", "author": "/u/georgeApuiu", "updated": "2026-05-12T20:50:38+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tba2pg/what_are_your_best_passive_income_ideas_to_earn/olg07h8/", "content": "Stocks" }, { "id": "t1_olict1t", "author": "/u/Negative-Dingo3335", "updated": "2026-05-13T04:51:55+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tba2pg/what_are_your_best_passive_income_ideas_to_earn/olict1t/", "content": "Yep, use money to recruit more money" }, { "id": "t1_olghib6", "author": "/u/FoundationOrganic748", "updated": "2026-05-12T22:15:33+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tba2pg/what_are_your_best_passive_income_ideas_to_earn/olghib6/", "content": "Honestly, I’ve started realizing that truly “passive” income usually takes either:\n\n- A lot of upfront capital or\n- A lot of upfront work A few things that seem more realistic to me in 2026:\n\n- Dividend ETFs / index investing Not get-rich-quick, but relatively scalable over time if you consistently invest and reinvest.\n- Digital content Things like YouTube, Substack, blogs, etc. can become semi-passive later, but usually require a long period of posting with almost no results at first.\n- Selling digital products Templates, guides, niche PDFs, small tools, etc. Some people quietly build surprisingly steady income streams from these.\n- High-yield savings / T-bills Not exciting, but with higher rates these can at least generate meaningful low-risk cash flow. The biggest thing I’ve learned is that most “easy passive income” online is either exaggerated or eventually turns into another full-time job.\n The more sustainable paths usually look slower and more boring at the beginning." }, { "id": "t1_olj1zw9", "author": "/u/Sea-Dragonfly9826", "updated": "2026-05-13T08:19:52+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tba2pg/what_are_your_best_passive_income_ideas_to_earn/olj1zw9/", "content": "Not realy, if you're there are a lot of life hacks that gets you easy passive income with completely 0 upfront fees, I'm telling you fosho" }, { "id": "t1_olne0tt", "author": "/u/FoundationOrganic748", "updated": "2026-05-13T21:54:01+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tba2pg/what_are_your_best_passive_income_ideas_to_earn/olne0tt/", "content": "Maybe there are a few shortcuts out there, but I’ve noticed most “easy passive income” either:\n\n- doesn’t stay passive for long\n- or doesn’t scale very much. The more reliable income streams usually seem slower and less exciting at the beginning." }, { "id": "t1_olseedj", "author": "/u/Sea-Dragonfly9826", "updated": "2026-05-14T16:31:04+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tba2pg/what_are_your_best_passive_income_ideas_to_earn/olseedj/", "content": "Yeah true, but even the short term one's can be worthwhile" }, { "id": "t1_oofgzxl", "author": "/u/Unhappy-Term7834", "updated": "2026-05-28T19:14:42+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tba2pg/what_are_your_best_passive_income_ideas_to_earn/oofgzxl/", "content": "What are a few of your favorites? that take no upfront costs?" }, { "id": "t1_omnic6v", "author": "/u/Pleasant_Daikon_7440", "updated": "2026-05-19T11:36:06+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tba2pg/what_are_your_best_passive_income_ideas_to_earn/omnic6v/", "content": "Give me more for digital content" }, { "id": "t1_olg12hp", "author": "/u/Ok_Succotash_2342", "updated": "2026-05-12T20:54:36+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tba2pg/what_are_your_best_passive_income_ideas_to_earn/olg12hp/", "content": "So many ads on these replies lmao" }, { "id": "t1_olh4q7e", "author": "/u/TheGodsx", "updated": "2026-05-13T00:22:34+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tba2pg/what_are_your_best_passive_income_ideas_to_earn/olh4q7e/", "content": "Yeah, do you have any ads to show me?" }, { "id": "t1_olis2e6", "author": "/u/Ok_Succotash_2342", "updated": "2026-05-13T06:53:34+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tba2pg/what_are_your_best_passive_income_ideas_to_earn/olis2e6/", "content": "If you can't see, you cant be helped my guy" }, { "id": "t1_olixx1h", "author": "/u/TheGodsx", "updated": "2026-05-13T07:43:46+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tba2pg/what_are_your_best_passive_income_ideas_to_earn/olixx1h/", "content": "😭 I'm blind cuh" }, { "id": "t1_olf41s6", "author": "/u/BriefBear6389", "updated": "2026-05-12T18:24:38+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tba2pg/what_are_your_best_passive_income_ideas_to_earn/olf41s6/", "content": "real estate still king 🔥 started with small duplex in 2023, now have 3 properties generating solid monthly cash flow\n takes work upfront but once you get good tenants it's pretty hands off, just make sure you understand landlord laws in your state first 💀" }, { "id": "t1_olf57vh", "author": "/u/javialvarez142", "updated": "2026-05-12T18:30:16+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tba2pg/what_are_your_best_passive_income_ideas_to_earn/olf57vh/", "content": "where do you have your properties, if you don’t mind me asking?" }, { "id": "t1_olfj3da", "author": "/u/NoseFickle9800", "updated": "2026-05-12T19:33:09+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tba2pg/what_are_your_best_passive_income_ideas_to_earn/olfj3da/", "content": "Build small digital assets that compound over time: niche websites, SEO blogs, YouTube automation, SaaS tools, affiliate content, or selling templates/plugins.\n I still think owning websites with recurring traffic + subscriptions is one of the best “semi-passive” income models for 2026. Once rankings grow, income stacks from ads, affiliates, and leads." }, { "id": "t1_olgd2hc", "author": "/u/Fit-Calligrapher4469", "updated": "2026-05-12T21:52:30+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tba2pg/what_are_your_best_passive_income_ideas_to_earn/olgd2hc/", "content": "Dividend investing" }, { "id": "t1_olg5l7s", "author": "/u/Koch_Digital", "updated": "2026-05-12T21:15:44+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tba2pg/what_are_your_best_passive_income_ideas_to_earn/olg5l7s/", "content": "100% passive income doesn’t really exist. The idea of making money while doing absolutely no work is mostly delusional.\n That said, I still make roughly $50 per month in royalties from videos I made 10 years ago, so some income streams can become semi-passive over time.\n There are other interesting ideas you can look into as well, but almost all of them require a significant upfront investment, whether that’s money, time, or work. https://www.reddit.com/r/HonestSideHustles/comments/1sov92p/15_realistic_passive_income_ideas_methods/" }, { "id": "t1_olkio36", "author": "/u/733n_w0lf", "updated": "2026-05-13T14:03:23+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tba2pg/what_are_your_best_passive_income_ideas_to_earn/olkio36/", "content": "A lot of “passive income” this year honestly looks more like “front-loaded work + later leverage.”\n The people I’ve seen doing well are building niche SaaS/tools, faceless content + affiliates, digital products, or AI-powered service businesses. Tools like Runnable also lowered the barrier a lot for launching MVPs fast without massive teams." }, { "id": "t1_olkkr60", "author": "/u/salvador_investemnts", "updated": "2026-05-13T14:13:14+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tba2pg/what_are_your_best_passive_income_ideas_to_earn/olkkr60/", "content": "Tax lien investing is real estate exposure without the landlord lifestyle.\n You get property-secured returns (8-36% depending on state), but you're not the first point of contact for anything. You're essentially a secured lender to the county. The state collects, the state enforces. You deploy capital once, do due diligence upfront, and then you wait.\n It's the same real estate foundation you understand, but you're not dealing with tenants, inspections, late-night calls, or the constant pressure to 'always be on.'\n Just a thought if you love real estate but hate the operational headache. Some people find that balance works better mentally." }, { "id": "t1_olknef7", "author": "/u/Aunt_Aly", "updated": "2026-05-13T14:25:37+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tba2pg/what_are_your_best_passive_income_ideas_to_earn/olknef7/", "content": "I joined a company that sells supplements, and for every bag sold, they give a bag to a child in need. 🙏" }, { "id": "t1_oll2to6", "author": "/u/JREG650", "updated": "2026-05-13T15:35:21+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tba2pg/what_are_your_best_passive_income_ideas_to_earn/oll2to6/", "content": "Honestly for me it’s been Amazon KDP. I randomly went down the rabbit hole a few months ago and now have around 30 books published across different niches. Mostly low content at first, but then I started doing medium content and a couple higher content non fiction books too and that’s when it really clicked for me...\n I realized it’s less about “writing books” and more about understanding the system. Covers, keywords, categories, formatting, and learning what people actually click on…oh and ads.\n Biggest waste of time for me was overthinking everything before publishing. I learned way more from actually putting books live, along with watching YouTube strategy vids definitely helped." }, { "id": "t1_olyz2uz", "author": "/u/Anxious_Detective928", "updated": "2026-05-15T15:58:40+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tba2pg/what_are_your_best_passive_income_ideas_to_earn/olyz2uz/", "content": "Hey, that sounds great. What kind of income are you generating from AKDP? And would you please share an example of a YouTube strategy vid that helped. 😊" }, { "id": "t1_om0lywn", "author": "/u/JREG650", "updated": "2026-05-15T20:37:44+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tba2pg/what_are_your_best_passive_income_ideas_to_earn/om0lywn/", "content": "BarryKDP on YouTube was a game changer for me. I went deep on his content and actually used AI to summarize and extract the key strategies across about 10 of his videos so I could really absorb the system fast.\n As for income, I've only been at this since March and I'm sitting at about 30 books now. I'm making money but not where I want to be yet. Still learning and honestly the ads piece is where I feel like I'm leaving the most on the table. Working on fixing that though!" }, { "id": "t1_olfdg4i", "author": "/u/Gold_Watercress1923", "updated": "2026-05-12T19:07:30+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tba2pg/what_are_your_best_passive_income_ideas_to_earn/olfdg4i/", "content": "HMOs in central London for me still gives me the best monthly cashflow and passive income (almost!)" }, { "id": "t1_olszqxj", "author": "/u/MeetFabulous", "updated": "2026-05-14T18:06:21+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tba2pg/what_are_your_best_passive_income_ideas_to_earn/olszqxj/", "content": "What’s an HMO?" }, { "id": "t1_olt0eoh", "author": "/u/Gold_Watercress1923", "updated": "2026-05-14T18:09:19+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tba2pg/what_are_your_best_passive_income_ideas_to_earn/olt0eoh/", "content": "That’s when you rent out a flat or house room by room to unrelated people like 4 students if you have a 4 bed property (House of Multiple occupancy). This increased the rent overall comparing to renting the whole place to a family for instance" }, { "id": "t1_olg2lfv", "author": "/u/HappyCaterpillar2409", "updated": "2026-05-12T21:01:38+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tba2pg/what_are_your_best_passive_income_ideas_to_earn/olg2lfv/", "content": "Take surveys" }, { "id": "t1_olhy029", "author": "/u/cosmogyric_baby", "updated": "2026-05-13T03:09:57+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tba2pg/what_are_your_best_passive_income_ideas_to_earn/olhy029/", "content": "Since you like surveys, Try Freecash and Testerup if you're interested in testing apps, watching videos etc to earn some pocket money. Currently it has a $10 sign up bonus on using referral link." }, { "id": "t1_olg5cy1", "author": "/u/Puzzleheaded_Ad_4478", "updated": "2026-05-12T21:14:40+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tba2pg/what_are_your_best_passive_income_ideas_to_earn/olg5cy1/", "content": "Vending machines and automated trading. I with a bot making $10 per day. With vending I make avg 2k/month already." }, { "id": "t1_olg7fc5", "author": "/u/Dangerous-Total31", "updated": "2026-05-12T21:24:32+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tba2pg/what_are_your_best_passive_income_ideas_to_earn/olg7fc5/", "content": "Can you tell me more about automated trading" }, { "id": "t1_olgj7dq", "author": "/u/Puzzleheaded_Ad_4478", "updated": "2026-05-12T22:24:38+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tba2pg/what_are_your_best_passive_income_ideas_to_earn/olgj7dq/", "content": "What do you want to know?" }, { "id": "t1_olqwne1", "author": "/u/CamelDue9474", "updated": "2026-05-14T12:10:18+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tba2pg/what_are_your_best_passive_income_ideas_to_earn/olqwne1/", "content": "Posso chiedere che bot usi?" }, { "id": "t1_olk6ryv", "author": "/u/Bill_Mariachi", "updated": "2026-05-13T13:04:41+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tba2pg/what_are_your_best_passive_income_ideas_to_earn/olk6ryv/", "content": "How do you get set up with a trading bot? Is it a website site or did you build it yourself? If you built it, how?" }, { "id": "t1_olkd6u8", "author": "", "updated": "2026-05-13T13:36:54+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tba2pg/what_are_your_best_passive_income_ideas_to_earn/olkd6u8/", "content": "[deleted]" }, { "id": "t1_olkgtjp", "author": "/u/Bill_Mariachi", "updated": "2026-05-13T13:54:30+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tba2pg/what_are_your_best_passive_income_ideas_to_earn/olkgtjp/", "content": "For the complex ones, are you hands on building with python or using Claude?" }, { "id": "t1_olkoevn", "author": "/u/Puzzleheaded_Ad_4478", "updated": "2026-05-13T14:30:18+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tba2pg/what_are_your_best_passive_income_ideas_to_earn/olkoevn/", "content": "I use mostly Python, MQL5 and others but you can also use AI to speed up live tasks. I also saw people using agents to improve their workflow, but if you want full control and more customization, going raw is the way." }, { "id": "t1_olkqlzo", "author": "/u/Bill_Mariachi", "updated": "2026-05-13T14:40:31+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tba2pg/what_are_your_best_passive_income_ideas_to_earn/olkqlzo/", "content": "“Going raw” is a great way to say that 😂. I don’t have coding experience so I’ll have to use AI. Thanks for the info 👍" }, { "id": "t1_olgbb4q", "author": "/u/HighlightImmediate64", "updated": "2026-05-12T21:43:39+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tba2pg/what_are_your_best_passive_income_ideas_to_earn/olgbb4q/", "content": "interested with the bot! Which type you built?" }, { "id": "t1_olgj3ax", "author": "/u/Puzzleheaded_Ad_4478", "updated": "2026-05-12T22:24:01+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tba2pg/what_are_your_best_passive_income_ideas_to_earn/olgj3ax/", "content": "Start with a trend following one then moved to quantitative bot. Backtested and live since 2021. I often test more strategies on the side." }, { "id": "t1_olg7tve", "author": "/u/tsurutatdk", "updated": "2026-05-12T21:26:30+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tba2pg/what_are_your_best_passive_income_ideas_to_earn/olg7tve/", "content": "You can stake your coins" }, { "id": "t1_olib69q", "author": "/u/adrianmatuguina", "updated": "2026-05-13T04:39:54+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tba2pg/what_are_your_best_passive_income_ideas_to_earn/olib69q/", "content": "some of the older passive income ideas have faded and a few newer ones are genuinely working right now.\n What's actually working in 2026:\n Digital products are still one of the best options. Templates, notion dashboards, Canva packs, swipe files, and guides sell on Gumroad or Etsy with zero inventory and no shipping. The upfront work is real but once it is live it runs itself.\n Books and ebooks on KDP are having a moment again because AI helps you write and publish faster. The key is picking a niche with real demand rather than just publishing anything. If you want to write a proper book, aivolut books is built specifically for that and helps you go from idea to finished manuscript without losing momentum.\n Niche content sites and blogs still work if you treat them like a business. Pick a specific audience, publish consistently, and monetize through affiliate links or display ads. Slower to build but compounds over time.\n YouTube automation channels where you script, use AI voiceover, and outsource editing. Higher upfront cost but scales well once a channel gets traction.\n Online courses if you have real expertise in something. Teachable and Gumroad make distribution simple.\n What tends to be a waste of time:\n Dropshipping without a real marketing angle, most print on demand without an audience, and any "passive income" that requires you to constantly recruit other people.\n For anything that involves writing content at volume, WordHero saves a lot of time on the production side so you can focus on the strategy and growth part.\n The honest truth is none of these are truly passive at the start. They all require real upfront work. The passive part comes later." }, { "id": "t1_olnhe3n", "author": "/u/sidehustle_brad", "updated": "2026-05-13T22:11:20+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tba2pg/what_are_your_best_passive_income_ideas_to_earn/olnhe3n/", "content": "Niche utility sites with display ads. I build calculator and estimator tools in high-CPM niches — insurance, mortgage, divorce settlements, workers comp. The content is evergreen, the tools answer specific questions people are actively searching for, and AdSense handles monetization once approved. Took me a few months to build out 8 sites using AI to help with content. Zero maintenance once they're indexed. Not flashy but it's the closest thing to genuinely passive I've found — no audience to maintain, no products to update, no clients to manage." }, { "id": "t1_om0p2qk", "author": "/u/Obvious-Ad-2454", "updated": "2026-05-15T20:52:51+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tba2pg/what_are_your_best_passive_income_ideas_to_earn/om0p2qk/", "content": "how much does that make?" }, { "id": "t1_oma43xy", "author": "/u/IIDannyBoyII", "updated": "2026-05-17T10:01:52+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tba2pg/what_are_your_best_passive_income_ideas_to_earn/oma43xy/", "content": "Dividend stocks" }, { "id": "t1_olfahjj", "author": "", "updated": "2026-05-12T18:54:09+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tba2pg/what_are_your_best_passive_income_ideas_to_earn/olfahjj/", "content": "[deleted]" }, { "id": "t1_olfcmxw", "author": "/u/Possible_Mango_3183", "updated": "2026-05-12T19:03:50+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tba2pg/what_are_your_best_passive_income_ideas_to_earn/olfcmxw/", "content": "I went the same route and it only started working once I stopped chasing every shiny new launch and stuck to a tiny niche I actually live in day to day. I picked two tools my audience was already using, built stupidly simple “how I do X” walkthroughs around them, and then answered questions in places where people were already complaining about those exact problems.\n What moved the needle wasn’t more links, it was owning one angle really deeply. For me that was “set it and forget it” workflows, so every piece of content led back to that. I used things like PartnerStack and Impact to find programs, and ended up on Pulse for Reddit after trying those plus Brand24 because it caught threads I was already answering in anyway, just earlier and more on-target." }, { "id": "t1_olk7wdj", "author": "/u/Bill_Mariachi", "updated": "2026-05-13T13:10:27+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tba2pg/what_are_your_best_passive_income_ideas_to_earn/olk7wdj/", "content": "Can you explain this a little more. How do you find a saas product to rep?" }, { "id": "t1_oll9uuv", "author": "/u/ShotOil1398", "updated": "2026-05-13T16:06:12+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tba2pg/what_are_your_best_passive_income_ideas_to_earn/oll9uuv/", "content": "finding the right program is actually the most important step.\n easiest way is to think about tools you already use or know about in a niche you understand. then just search "tool name affiliate program" and see if they have one. most SaaS companies do.\n if you want to browse options, there are marketplaces where you can filter by commission type and find recurring programs specifically. that makes it easier to compare before committing to one.\n the three things to check before signing up: is it recurring or one time, how long is the cookie window, and whats the minimum payout threshold. those tell you if its actually worth the effort." }, { "id": "t1_olla55g", "author": "/u/Bill_Mariachi", "updated": "2026-05-13T16:07:27+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tba2pg/what_are_your_best_passive_income_ideas_to_earn/olla55g/", "content": "This is great, thanks!" }, { "id": "t1_olle5o3", "author": "/u/ShotOil1398", "updated": "2026-05-13T16:25:16+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tba2pg/what_are_your_best_passive_income_ideas_to_earn/olle5o3/", "content": "no worries, good luck with it." }, { "id": "t1_olimnmv", "author": "/u/Ok-Impression-3082", "updated": "2026-05-13T06:08:56+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tba2pg/what_are_your_best_passive_income_ideas_to_earn/olimnmv/", "content": "Not passive but Im pretty well aversed in the markets. I used to do options but usually use suparlay.com right now because the multipliers are pretty insane and it’s unregulated. Not affiliated at all just have been doing well" }, { "id": "t1_olip0su", "author": "/u/psyduckpikachu", "updated": "2026-05-13T06:28:17+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tba2pg/what_are_your_best_passive_income_ideas_to_earn/olip0su/", "content": "I am building saas and hoping that they will make some extra cash every week" }, { "id": "t1_olj1qu7", "author": "/u/Sea-Dragonfly9826", "updated": "2026-05-13T08:17:34+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tba2pg/what_are_your_best_passive_income_ideas_to_earn/olj1qu7/", "content": "[ Removed by Reddit ]" }, { "id": "t1_olj7vjk", "author": "/u/tray342", "updated": "2026-05-13T09:11:38+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tba2pg/what_are_your_best_passive_income_ideas_to_earn/olj7vjk/", "content": "https://preview.redd.it/r0ie6qmmfv0h1.png?width=1536&format=png&auto=webp&s=af185a5bb07f061b02202c87277efb0a32f4b8db\n Most affiliate systems are confusing at first, but this one seems more “plug-and-play” compared to others I tested." }, { "id": "t1_olkcaa6", "author": "", "updated": "2026-05-13T13:32:23+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tba2pg/what_are_your_best_passive_income_ideas_to_earn/olkcaa6/", "content": "[deleted]" }, { "id": "t1_olkcbo3", "author": "/u/vectorsquad", "updated": "2026-05-13T13:32:34+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tba2pg/what_are_your_best_passive_income_ideas_to_earn/olkcbo3/", "content": "Slow and passive but decent ROI in GoMining since I started in March" }, { "id": "t1_olkdgln", "author": "/u/imranf89", "updated": "2026-05-13T13:38:13+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tba2pg/what_are_your_best_passive_income_ideas_to_earn/olkdgln/", "content": "Earning commission on travel bookings from family, friends and colleagues.\n I am doing this alongside my current 9-5 as an IT Architect, i have completed bookings already and have earned commission.\n Anybody interested, i can share more details." }, { "id": "t1_opfgzb3", "author": "/u/Fine_Positive8278", "updated": "2026-06-03T01:14:08+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tba2pg/what_are_your_best_passive_income_ideas_to_earn/opfgzb3/", "content": "Would love to hear more." }, { "id": "t1_olkppxk", "author": "/u/Miamiconnectionexo", "updated": "2026-05-13T14:36:24+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tba2pg/what_are_your_best_passive_income_ideas_to_earn/olkppxk/", "content": "this hit different. been in a similar spot and it's not talked about enough." }, { "id": "t1_olnqk0g", "author": "/u/princessann94", "updated": "2026-05-13T23:00:24+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tba2pg/what_are_your_best_passive_income_ideas_to_earn/olnqk0g/", "content": "Following" }, { "id": "t1_olptt97", "author": "", "updated": "2026-05-14T07:05:30+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tba2pg/what_are_your_best_passive_income_ideas_to_earn/olptt97/", "content": "I’ve seen people underestimate how much money there still is in basic digital products.\n Used Runable to create PPT decks and mini business presentation templates for small creators and students.\n Uploaded a few bundles online and some of them still bring in random sales months later.\n Low maintenance once everything is uploaded properly." }, { "id": "t1_olqoccg", "author": "/u/atsverification", "updated": "2026-05-14T11:19:31+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tba2pg/what_are_your_best_passive_income_ideas_to_earn/olqoccg/", "content": "With help of AI you can launch any app or website . I created one and it is giving me 5K USD a month." }, { "id": "t1_olxdmke", "author": "/u/Baris_CH", "updated": "2026-05-15T10:55:11+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tba2pg/what_are_your_best_passive_income_ideas_to_earn/olxdmke/", "content": "follow" }, { "id": "t1_olz9duy", "author": "/u/Dry_Structure_2340", "updated": "2026-05-15T16:46:43+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tba2pg/what_are_your_best_passive_income_ideas_to_earn/olz9duy/", "content": "Follow" }, { "id": "t1_om0mhsi", "author": "/u/Powerful_Equipment84", "updated": "2026-05-15T20:40:18+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tba2pg/what_are_your_best_passive_income_ideas_to_earn/om0mhsi/", "content": "Elevenlabs Voice Clone. Got my second up this week, and planned many more. If you want to know more, I can DM you. Its one time ( or how long you need) to record and edit, then set and forget.\n https://preview.redd.it/9d3y6hhb4d1h1.png?width=887&format=png&auto=webp&s=07db659f6c30f0e7326c6eb9af33f5215bbea115" }, { "id": "t1_onjdfn3", "author": "/u/Adorable-Ad-9391", "updated": "2026-05-24T02:50:17+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tba2pg/what_are_your_best_passive_income_ideas_to_earn/onjdfn3/", "content": "can you please put me on 🙏" }, { "id": "t1_ookzlh3", "author": "/u/Powerful_Equipment84", "updated": "2026-05-29T15:00:10+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tba2pg/what_are_your_best_passive_income_ideas_to_earn/ookzlh3/", "content": "will send you a dm : )" }, { "id": "t1_omhcnrq", "author": "/u/WealthEquityPro", "updated": "2026-05-18T13:35:49+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tba2pg/what_are_your_best_passive_income_ideas_to_earn/omhcnrq/", "content": "Rental real estate is still the most\n reliable one in 2026. Here's why:\n Most passive income ideas have a ceiling.\n Rental income scales without that ceiling.\n My top 3 for 2026 specifically:\n\n- House hacking — buy a small multi-family, live in one unit, rent the others. FHA loan\n means only 3.5% down. Your tenants cover\n most of your mortgage. Best ROI for\n beginners with limited capital.\n\n- NNN lease properties — buy a commercial property leased to Dollar General, Starbucks\n or similar. Tenant pays ALL expenses — taxes,\n insurance, maintenance. You just collect\n a check every month. Truly passive.\n\n- REITs — if you don't want to own physical property, REITs give you real estate exposure\n with stock ma" }, { "id": "t1_omhcyfw", "author": "/u/WealthEquityPro", "updated": "2026-05-18T13:37:22+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tba2pg/what_are_your_best_passive_income_ideas_to_earn/omhcyfw/", "content": "Passive income isn't a lie — but most people\n teach it wrong.\n Real passive income requires either:\n - Significant capital upfront, OR\n - Significant time upfront\n Rental real estate is the most honest version:\n - Buy a property\n - Find good tenants\n - Hire a property manager\n - Collect monthly income\n Is it truly passive from day 1? No.\n After setup? Very close.\n The people selling courses about passive\n income are the ones making it "a lie."\n The actual strategies work — they just\n take longer than the ads suggest." }, { "id": "t1_omvgc8t", "author": "/u/TreeWeird3781", "updated": "2026-05-20T14:42:34+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tba2pg/what_are_your_best_passive_income_ideas_to_earn/omvgc8t/", "content": "dividend etfs are still the most solid long term play, boring but works. digital products on etsy had a good run and still does if you pick specific niches. youtube ad revenue takes forever but genuinely passive once you're there. print on demand slowed down a bit but still worth having running. honeygain has been quietly consistent for me this year, just runs in the background on my pc sharing unused bandwidth, nothing changed setup wise and it just keeps ticking, that's the kind of passive i actually like" }, { "id": "t1_onmp9st", "author": "/u/Less_Dig_3539", "updated": "2026-05-24T16:41:31+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tba2pg/what_are_your_best_passive_income_ideas_to_earn/onmp9st/", "content": "I’ve recently started using GoMining app, I’ve tested it for the past few months and have found steady long term growth. I will continue to test and review however." }, { "id": "t1_olijbvg", "author": "/u/Miamiconnectionexo", "updated": "2026-05-13T05:42:20+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tba2pg/what_are_your_best_passive_income_ideas_to_earn/olijbvg/", "content": "real talk, this is solid. more people need to hear this." }, { "id": "t1_olmik8p", "author": "/u/Front-Parsley1901", "updated": "2026-05-13T19:23:19+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tba2pg/what_are_your_best_passive_income_ideas_to_earn/olmik8p/", "content": "Here goes:\n\n- Taking in washing and ironing from neighbours to do in the evenings\n- Cutting people's lawns and hedges with second hand equipment I bought and fixed up in my free time over winter\n- Dog walking / pet sitting when people are away\n- Walking round my neighbourhood putting fliers through doors advertising the above services NB all the above cash only, so slightly below minimum wage." }, { "id": "t1_oln6nuw", "author": "/u/Present-Perception77", "updated": "2026-05-13T21:17:09+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tba2pg/what_are_your_best_passive_income_ideas_to_earn/oln6nuw/", "content": "These are very labor intensive side hustles. So the opposite of “passive income.”\n Passive income is like rental property or vending machines. The interest from your savings account is “passive income.”" }, { "id": "t1_olptwi5", "author": "/u/Front-Parsley1901", "updated": "2026-05-14T07:06:16+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tba2pg/what_are_your_best_passive_income_ideas_to_earn/olptwi5/", "content": "No shit... I just wanted to be the first to put some lousy suggestions in, as someone usually does." }, { "id": "t1_olms5tm", "author": "/u/TartVisual8655", "updated": "2026-05-13T20:07:37+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tba2pg/what_are_your_best_passive_income_ideas_to_earn/olms5tm/", "content": "try creating a digital product and sell it off, i do the same and paying off $500 semimonthly\n PM for more info if interested" }, { "id": "t1_olfb81t", "author": "/u/russian_nomad_", "updated": "2026-05-12T18:57:29+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tba2pg/what_are_your_best_passive_income_ideas_to_earn/olfb81t/", "content": "Affiliate links. I posted some links in the r/laundry thread years ago and they still generate income." }, { "id": "t1_olfcvpx", "author": "/u/Mountain-Year5215", "updated": "2026-05-12T19:04:57+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tba2pg/what_are_your_best_passive_income_ideas_to_earn/olfcvpx/", "content": "I've been running prediction markets on Kalshi for a few months now - started with paper trading to test things out before putting real money in. Honestly it's been interesting but definitely not passive in the way people usually mean it. You gotta spend time analyzing and placing trades, but if you find a decent edge and stick to it, the returns can be decent without needing a ton of capital. The learning curve is real though, so I'd recommend testing with small amounts first if you're thinking about it." }, { "id": "t1_olf8j86", "author": "", "updated": "2026-05-12T18:45:27+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tba2pg/what_are_your_best_passive_income_ideas_to_earn/olf8j86/", "content": "[deleted]" }, { "id": "t1_oloitj7", "author": "/u/Ill_Plastic1577", "updated": "2026-05-14T01:36:54+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tba2pg/what_are_your_best_passive_income_ideas_to_earn/oloitj7/", "content": "Interesting. Does this really work?" }, { "id": "t1_olq6c63", "author": "/u/Lower_Rule2043", "updated": "2026-05-14T08:56:35+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tba2pg/what_are_your_best_passive_income_ideas_to_earn/olq6c63/", "content": "yeah it works ngl, anyone saying it doesnt usually just quit before it kicked in lol. takes consistency tho" }, { "id": "t1_olf9a55", "author": "/u/og-crime-junkie", "updated": "2026-05-12T18:48:48+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tba2pg/what_are_your_best_passive_income_ideas_to_earn/olf9a55/", "content": "Sounds like a scam." }, { "id": "t1_olfcvfn", "author": "/u/Fairy_m_509", "updated": "2026-05-12T19:04:55+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tba2pg/what_are_your_best_passive_income_ideas_to_earn/olfcvfn/", "content": "Se ve muy fácil, por mas pasivo que sea, necesita que se le dedique algun tiempo y dedicación para que realmente te de un ingreso" }, { "id": "t1_olfgo0s", "author": "/u/mclovin6261", "updated": "2026-05-12T19:22:09+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tba2pg/what_are_your_best_passive_income_ideas_to_earn/olfgo0s/", "content": "I’m sorry, this is just pathetic." }, { "id": "t1_ollrpqg", "author": "/u/Careful_Vanilla_2747", "updated": "2026-05-13T17:24:46+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tba2pg/what_are_your_best_passive_income_ideas_to_earn/ollrpqg/", "content": "I've received started a faceless YouTube channel, only a few videos in so will be a while till it pays off - how long did it honestly take you to move the needle, and how frequently did you publish?" }, { "id": "t1_olm285r", "author": "/u/Lower_Rule2043", "updated": "2026-05-13T18:10:22+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tba2pg/what_are_your_best_passive_income_ideas_to_earn/olm285r/", "content": "took ages lol, felt dead forever ngl. im on every platform tho, that helped a ton" }, { "id": "t1_omlmdph", "author": "/u/Careful_Vanilla_2747", "updated": "2026-05-19T02:46:03+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tba2pg/what_are_your_best_passive_income_ideas_to_earn/omlmdph/", "content": "I did start with Pinterest, but haven't had time to set anything else up - I'll look at making more, and setup automation with chatGPT/Claude" }, { "id": "t1_olff1nw", "author": "/u/Unfair-Ad-7836", "updated": "2026-05-12T19:14:46+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tba2pg/what_are_your_best_passive_income_ideas_to_earn/olff1nw/", "content": "Surveys 1 survey for 15-20 mins £12 , unlimited surveys ." }, { "id": "t1_olfhtkl", "author": "", "updated": "2026-05-12T19:27:20+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tba2pg/what_are_your_best_passive_income_ideas_to_earn/olfhtkl/", "content": "[deleted]" }, { "id": "t1_olfl6z2", "author": "/u/Unfair-Ad-7836", "updated": "2026-05-12T19:42:42+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tba2pg/what_are_your_best_passive_income_ideas_to_earn/olfl6z2/", "content": "If I’m gas enough can go under 10 mins, that’s means could fill up 5 in an hour for £60" }, { "id": "t1_olfnmg4", "author": "", "updated": "2026-05-12T19:53:38+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tba2pg/what_are_your_best_passive_income_ideas_to_earn/olfnmg4/", "content": "[deleted]" }, { "id": "t1_olg4ukb", "author": "/u/Unfair-Ad-7836", "updated": "2026-05-12T21:12:13+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tba2pg/what_are_your_best_passive_income_ideas_to_earn/olg4ukb/", "content": "Really lucrative and can do it while at work, so you should definitely start it as well. 👌" }, { "id": "t1_om59kc2", "author": "/u/Amanda_Bytes90", "updated": "2026-05-16T15:26:04+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tba2pg/what_are_your_best_passive_income_ideas_to_earn/om59kc2/", "content": "can i ask where are you from bro ?" } ] }, { "source": "r/passive_income top month", "id": "t3_1t76mbu", "title": "What are some realistic ways to make a little money online every day?", "author": "/u/storicax", "updated": "2026-05-08T12:34:35+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t76mbu/what_are_some_realistic_ways_to_make_a_little/", "content": "Hey all,\n I want to start earning a little bit of extra cash every day, strictly online. I’m not looking for physical jobs, just things I can do remotely using my laptop or smartphone.\n I don’t mind if the payout is small. I just want something realistic that can generate some income within a single day.\n What do you guys recommend? I’m open to any honest apps, websites, or simple online tasks. Thanks in advance!\n submitted by /u/storicax\n [link] [comments]", "contentHtml": "

Hey all,
I want to start earning a little bit of extra cash every day, strictly online. I’m not looking for physical jobs, just things I can do remotely using my laptop or smartphone.
I don’t mind if the payout is small. I just want something realistic that can generate some income within a single day.
What do you guys recommend? I’m open to any honest apps, websites, or simple online tasks. Thanks in advance!

submitted by /u/storicax
[link] [comments]", "comments": [ { "id": "t1_okmm1zv", "author": "/u/AutoModerator", "updated": "2026-05-08T12:34:35+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t76mbu/what_are_some_realistic_ways_to_make_a_little/okmm1zv/", "content": "Check out the Community Highlights for current and future Mod Vetted opportunities and Newsletter Episodes.\n Please do due diligence on any crypto opportunity. A simple google search could save you a fortune.\n I am a bot, and this action was performed automatically. Please contact the moderators of this subreddit if you have any questions or concerns." }, { "id": "t1_okn6gl7", "author": "/u/VetsyApp", "updated": "2026-05-08T14:15:33+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t76mbu/what_are_some_realistic_ways_to_make_a_little/okn6gl7/", "content": "Honest answer, the “make money every day” thing is mostly a trap. The stuff that pays daily (surveys, microtasks) pays so little it’s barely worth your time.\n Better approach: pick one skill you can learn in a week (basic graphic design, writing, data entry) and start freelancing on Fiverr or Upwork. First month is slow but by month 2-3 you’ll make more per hour than any survey app will ever pay you." }, { "id": "t1_oksymxx", "author": "/u/Whoopsie23", "updated": "2026-05-09T11:18:25+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t76mbu/what_are_some_realistic_ways_to_make_a_little/oksymxx/", "content": "Man, Upwork is a real grind. I have already invested $200 for purchasing connects and been applying almost everyday for 2 weeks non-stop. Around 30ish jobs applied to, and out of the 2 that were interested, they ended up not continuing with me because I charge too high, lol. (in what world is charging $25/hour for a complex project that takes ~4 months to complete high? I think it is actually low for a project of this magnitude)\n For reference, I'm a software developer who's just getting started in the freelancing world.\n And the worst thing is Upwork decided to null all my proposals and connects because something triggered their trust and safety system. I don't know what else to do. Now I'm waiting for them to reverify my account and hoping my proposals and connects haven't gone to waste." }, { "id": "t1_okus62c", "author": "/u/VetsyApp", "updated": "2026-05-09T17:23:21+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t76mbu/what_are_some_realistic_ways_to_make_a_little/okus62c/", "content": "$25/hr for a software dev is criminally low honestly, the fact that clients rejected that tells you everything about the Upwork race to the bottom. The platform is flooded with devs charging $5/hr so your $25 looks “expensive” by comparison even though it’s a steal.\n Honest advice - skip the marketplaces entirely. Go find small businesses directly on LinkedIn or local Facebook groups who need dev work. No competition from $5/hr bidders, no connects to buy, and they actually value quality. Cold outreach sucks at first but the clients are way better." }, { "id": "t1_okv2gyo", "author": "/u/Fun-Painting-6892", "updated": "2026-05-09T18:14:48+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t76mbu/what_are_some_realistic_ways_to_make_a_little/okv2gyo/", "content": "LinkedIn outreach is solid but it eats way more time than people admit. You're writing custom messages, waiting, following up, and most ghost anyway. I did it for a while and landed a few clients, but the hourly rate on my *own* prospecting was depressing.\n The thing about Upwork is the cheap devs are visible because the platform surfaces everything. It's not actually most of the work available. I started using GigUp to filter for clients with verified payment history and actual reviews, which cuts the noise hard. You only see posts from people who've spent real money before.\n Quality clients exist there, they just get buried. Getting in early on those posts changed my hit rate way more than switching platforms did." }, { "id": "t1_olb1na2", "author": "/u/Despatio_", "updated": "2026-05-12T03:41:51+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t76mbu/what_are_some_realistic_ways_to_make_a_little/olb1na2/", "content": "Yeah man I'm seeing people offer as low as $2-3/hour on upwork for data science tasks. I've been offering half the listed rate and I'm not even getting looked at 90% of the time. I finished my bachelor's and am one term away from my masters and I've done a multi-year internship that decided it wasn't gonna rehire any of its interns. Since then I've been applying for jobs for 2 years and have only gotten one or two calls. This whole thing is so cooked and I feel like I'm just about ready to give up on this field." }, { "id": "t1_onc6hb4", "author": "/u/Perfect-Violinist868", "updated": "2026-05-22T23:30:52+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t76mbu/what_are_some_realistic_ways_to_make_a_little/onc6hb4/", "content": "Yeah I'm a software engineer as well and have worked for a lot of startups. One thing with Upwork that I found is that you might be lucky and get what seems like a solid gig but then they hire devs who have absolutely no idea what they are doing and will fuck you up and then you get ghosted and never paid out. Then there's the money you go through just to try and get a gig. It's not worth your time tbh." }, { "id": "t1_onjds44", "author": "/u/Outside_Flan_7937", "updated": "2026-05-24T02:52:37+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t76mbu/what_are_some_realistic_ways_to_make_a_little/onjds44/", "content": "Upwork feels like fake listings. You dont really see what the company is or anything . Its just a pile of words" }, { "id": "t1_okn7d0h", "author": "/u/storicax", "updated": "2026-05-08T14:19:42+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t76mbu/what_are_some_realistic_ways_to_make_a_little/okn7d0h/", "content": "Thank for the advice, I will try it out. This looks like a realistic approach" }, { "id": "t1_okn7vnr", "author": "/u/VetsyApp", "updated": "2026-05-08T14:22:03+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t76mbu/what_are_some_realistic_ways_to_make_a_little/okn7vnr/", "content": "Good luck with it! Fiverr’s the easiest to start on, just make sure your first few gigs are priced low to get reviews, then raise prices once you have some traction." }, { "id": "t1_ol3nkvj", "author": "/u/Specialist-One-8047", "updated": "2026-05-11T01:36:02+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t76mbu/what_are_some_realistic_ways_to_make_a_little/ol3nkvj/", "content": "I agree in there are many junk survey sites that are a waste of time. But there are good legit ones that pay you for your time. In addition to that, focus groups are great for bigger earnings. I did one focus group the end of April and received $150. I am in another project and will get $250. Some survey companies pay good too. When I am consistent, I can make close to $300 monthly on prolific. So, it's more about knowing the good ones from the wasteful ones." }, { "id": "t1_ol4hlqs", "author": "/u/VetsyApp", "updated": "2026-05-11T05:01:54+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t76mbu/what_are_some_realistic_ways_to_make_a_little/ol4hlqs/", "content": "Fair enough, 300$ mo on Prolific is legit actually. You’re right that the good ones exist - Prolific and focus groups are a different world from the garbage survey mills. Good call." }, { "id": "t1_ol9fr2w", "author": "/u/Sweaty-Ad-5019", "updated": "2026-05-11T22:02:59+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t76mbu/what_are_some_realistic_ways_to_make_a_little/ol9fr2w/", "content": "Is this an app? How do you sign up for prolific? What is it exactly?" }, { "id": "t1_old0zbg", "author": "/u/jonasleetrip", "updated": "2026-05-12T12:42:27+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t76mbu/what_are_some_realistic_ways_to_make_a_little/old0zbg/", "content": "You almost had good advice there" }, { "id": "t1_old5h8l", "author": "/u/VetsyApp", "updated": "2026-05-12T13:06:00+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t76mbu/what_are_some_realistic_ways_to_make_a_little/old5h8l/", "content": "Almost is my specialty." }, { "id": "t1_ollxugy", "author": "/u/Away_Can_4111", "updated": "2026-05-13T17:51:18+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t76mbu/what_are_some_realistic_ways_to_make_a_little/ollxugy/", "content": "I was doing some serious business on Upwork for a couple years and billing tens of thousands, but it's turned into a real graveyard this past year (for me.) I can't rely on it at all any more." }, { "id": "t1_olpvwgn", "author": "/u/VetsyApp", "updated": "2026-05-14T07:23:32+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t76mbu/what_are_some_realistic_ways_to_make_a_little/olpvwgn/", "content": "Yeah Upwork’s gotten brutal, race to the bottom on pricing and the algorithm changes killed a lot of established profiles. A lot of people who were doing well there have moved to direct outreach or LinkedIn instead. Platform dependency is always the risk." }, { "id": "t1_okrgjlo", "author": "/u/thuanshelby", "updated": "2026-05-09T03:32:31+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t76mbu/what_are_some_realistic_ways_to_make_a_little/okrgjlo/", "content": "But the users there are so competitive for so low price" }, { "id": "t1_oksk3y2", "author": "/u/VetsyApp", "updated": "2026-05-09T09:12:45+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t76mbu/what_are_some_realistic_ways_to_make_a_little/oksk3y2/", "content": "Yeah the race to the bottom on price is real. Trick is to niche down hard - “I design Etsy shop logos” pays way more than “I do graphic design.” The more specific you are, the less competition and the more you can charge." }, { "id": "t1_okn3tr2", "author": "/u/chews10", "updated": "2026-05-08T14:03:22+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t76mbu/what_are_some_realistic_ways_to_make_a_little/okn3tr2/", "content": "I've been using Usertesting for a while and I just have it on my personal laptop on the side during work so I can do screeners and tests when I have downtime. They can be pretty hit or miss when it comes to qualifying for the tests but usually I'll qualify for a few a day. Most of the tests are $10 and tests can range from 5-15 mins for those types of tests. Ive been able to make a decent amount of money over the 2 years I've been on the platform." }, { "id": "t1_oktl0f1", "author": "/u/Gummy-Bear-Rawr", "updated": "2026-05-09T13:41:18+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t76mbu/what_are_some_realistic_ways_to_make_a_little/oktl0f1/", "content": "I was almost complete registration in user testing, but it ask more personal data like mariage, have kids etc, i am worried about my personal data getting leaked So i stop it" }, { "id": "t1_oku0iiv", "author": "/u/chews10", "updated": "2026-05-09T15:03:51+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t76mbu/what_are_some_realistic_ways_to_make_a_little/oku0iiv/", "content": "They ask that to help them figure out which tests would make sense for you to take. But yeah, always good to be cautious!" }, { "id": "t1_okuooar", "author": "/u/unripedannie", "updated": "2026-05-09T17:06:08+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t76mbu/what_are_some_realistic_ways_to_make_a_little/okuooar/", "content": "You can use a separate email and fake details for non-sensitive fields, most platforms just need enough to match you with relevant studies anyway." }, { "id": "t1_om6160q", "author": "/u/huldress", "updated": "2026-05-16T17:43:44+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t76mbu/what_are_some_realistic_ways_to_make_a_little/om6160q/", "content": "god all these sites always seem so sketchy lol but I'd love a passive income to fund my hobbies." }, { "id": "t1_om63jnd", "author": "/u/chews10", "updated": "2026-05-16T17:55:29+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t76mbu/what_are_some_realistic_ways_to_make_a_little/om63jnd/", "content": "I always thought that too until i tried it. I think Usertesting is more legit because it's an actual company that many big companies use." }, { "id": "t1_om653pb", "author": "/u/huldress", "updated": "2026-05-16T18:03:15+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t76mbu/what_are_some_realistic_ways_to_make_a_little/om653pb/", "content": "Did you make a paypal business account for this?\n I always get confused on that, because I don't want my personal paypal deleted but I believe that only matters if you make over $600 in a year" }, { "id": "t1_om6bxbw", "author": "/u/chews10", "updated": "2026-05-16T18:38:27+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t76mbu/what_are_some_realistic_ways_to_make_a_little/om6bxbw/", "content": "oh yeah i just use personal!" }, { "id": "t1_oktz439", "author": "/u/Training_Security700", "updated": "2026-05-09T14:56:38+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t76mbu/what_are_some_realistic_ways_to_make_a_little/oktz439/", "content": "Any chance to use ot from outside of US with VPN?" }, { "id": "t1_olmlkuh", "author": "/u/Lazy-Course-874", "updated": "2026-05-13T19:37:05+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t76mbu/what_are_some_realistic_ways_to_make_a_little/olmlkuh/", "content": "does the demographic information really matter in this user testing site?" }, { "id": "t1_okn4e1i", "author": "/u/storicax", "updated": "2026-05-08T14:05:59+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t76mbu/what_are_some_realistic_ways_to_make_a_little/okn4e1i/", "content": "What platform?" }, { "id": "t1_okn4lyh", "author": "/u/chews10", "updated": "2026-05-08T14:07:00+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t76mbu/what_are_some_realistic_ways_to_make_a_little/okn4lyh/", "content": "It's called Usertesting!" }, { "id": "t1_okn5vxh", "author": "/u/storicax", "updated": "2026-05-08T14:12:54+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t76mbu/what_are_some_realistic_ways_to_make_a_little/okn5vxh/", "content": "usertesting dot com ?" }, { "id": "t1_okr5ueq", "author": "/u/Obvious_Rub_2691", "updated": "2026-05-09T02:20:50+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t76mbu/what_are_some_realistic_ways_to_make_a_little/okr5ueq/", "content": "Try opening a new tab and google search usertesting. Typically way faster and easier to get your answer that way.\n Work smarter not harder." }, { "id": "t1_okrgdog", "author": "/u/thuanshelby", "updated": "2026-05-09T03:31:21+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t76mbu/what_are_some_realistic_ways_to_make_a_little/okrgdog/", "content": "Is it available and accessible for newbie?" }, { "id": "t1_oks2d0i", "author": "/u/chews10", "updated": "2026-05-09T06:25:38+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t76mbu/what_are_some_realistic_ways_to_make_a_little/oks2d0i/", "content": "yup!" }, { "id": "t1_okn892g", "author": "/u/Lower_Rule2043", "updated": "2026-05-08T14:23:43+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t76mbu/what_are_some_realistic_ways_to_make_a_little/okn892g/", "content": "honest tho "every single day" payout limits u to small task work since real income streams take weeks to kick in. legit daily-payout options - prolific (surveys, $10-20/day if u check in), usertesting ($10-30 per test when u qualify), fetch rewards (scan receipts), and microsoft rewards. ull max out around $50-100/mo total combined.\n if u want something that stops being daily-grind and starts compounding, faceless ai shorts is the move - keyvello.com generates videos in 2 min, post across yt shorts tiktok ig reels fb. takes 2-3 months but eventually pays daily without u doing daily work. apps cap, content compounds." }, { "id": "t1_okn9zkr", "author": "/u/storicax", "updated": "2026-05-08T14:31:33+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t76mbu/what_are_some_realistic_ways_to_make_a_little/okn9zkr/", "content": "Honestly, this is exactly what I needed to hear. Since I live in Indonesia, most of those daily reward apps (like Fetch) are blocked here anyway. But your point about faceless AI shorts makes a lot of sense. Building something that compounds over 2-3 months is definitely smarter than grinding small tasks every day for pennies." }, { "id": "t1_oktl7h8", "author": "/u/Lower_Rule2043", "updated": "2026-05-09T13:42:24+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t76mbu/what_are_some_realistic_ways_to_make_a_little/oktl7h8/", "content": "yeah those reward apps being region locked is brutal. one tip for u in indonesia tho - if u go the faceless route make ur scripts in english and target global audience, not bahasa. cpm difference is huge ($4-8 global english vs $0.30-0.50 indonesia). same effort, way more revenue per view. ai voice handles the english delivery so the language barrier isnt a thing." }, { "id": "t1_okv7ji7", "author": "/u/Key-Arm-7762", "updated": "2026-05-09T18:41:07+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t76mbu/what_are_some_realistic_ways_to_make_a_little/okv7ji7/", "content": "How are you getting an RPM of $4-8 on Shorts?" }, { "id": "t1_omi43qt", "author": "/u/Infamous-Natural3561", "updated": "2026-05-18T15:45:43+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t76mbu/what_are_some_realistic_ways_to_make_a_little/omi43qt/", "content": "it's not that easy tho to get cpm from outside your origin Country. I am from Indonesia and i did some of the "faceless" shots you mention.\n Although i did some targeting global audience, the cpm is still locked in Indonesia. Pro tips if you're trying to get High CPM (like US, Canada, Europe in general):\n\n- Buy Smartphone outside your origin country. Dont forget to buy phone number from the High CPM countries you locked in to\n\n- Rent Residental IP from that countries as a Proxy. DONT EVER USE VPN IF YOU DON't WANT YOUR ACCOUNT GET BANNED." }, { "id": "t1_olcqa5t", "author": "/u/ai-techguy001", "updated": "2026-05-12T11:40:42+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t76mbu/what_are_some_realistic_ways_to_make_a_little/olcqa5t/", "content": "first part of this is solid advice, second part is just an ad lol" }, { "id": "t1_oksuebf", "author": "/u/TopGift1001", "updated": "2026-05-09T10:45:05+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t76mbu/what_are_some_realistic_ways_to_make_a_little/oksuebf/", "content": "Tell me the best niches for faceless YT shorts" }, { "id": "t1_oktlqqg", "author": "/u/Lower_Rule2043", "updated": "2026-05-09T13:45:23+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t76mbu/what_are_some_realistic_ways_to_make_a_little/oktlqqg/", "content": "honestly the "best" niche is whichever one u can post about for 90 days without burning out. that matters way more than chasing the highest cpm category.\n if i had to name what im seeing perform tho - true crime breakdowns and ancient mythology are eating right now. high retention, evergreen, decent cpm. avoid motivation quotes and slideshow facts, those are dead.\n whats ur natural interest?" }, { "id": "t1_okqubq9", "author": "/u/sidehustle_brad", "updated": "2026-05-09T01:09:09+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t76mbu/what_are_some_realistic_ways_to_make_a_little/okqubq9/", "content": "Honestly the most underrated one right now is AdSense niche sites. Build a simple calculator or tool around a high-RPM topic (insurance, legal, mortgage), get it indexed, let Google send traffic. Not overnight money but it compounds. I've been building them with AI — takes a few hours per site and hosting is free on Netlify. Small bets that add up over time." }, { "id": "t1_okrxawn", "author": "/u/storicax", "updated": "2026-05-09T05:41:46+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t76mbu/what_are_some_realistic_ways_to_make_a_little/okrxawn/", "content": "Thanks for advice." }, { "id": "t1_ol455mi", "author": "/u/MRJOHARPLAY", "updated": "2026-05-11T03:28:30+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t76mbu/what_are_some_realistic_ways_to_make_a_little/ol455mi/", "content": "can i learn more about this" }, { "id": "t1_okmw53v", "author": "/u/Responsible_Mark3371", "updated": "2026-05-08T13:26:20+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t76mbu/what_are_some_realistic_ways_to_make_a_little/okmw53v/", "content": "Ask claude how to build websites. sinple html hostes free in vercel. follow hes instructions and you will make money" }, { "id": "t1_okmwwo5", "author": "/u/storicax", "updated": "2026-05-08T13:30:05+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t76mbu/what_are_some_realistic_ways_to_make_a_little/okmwwo5/", "content": "Thanks for advice" }, { "id": "t1_okn4fcq", "author": "/u/Sorry-Ad-5527", "updated": "2026-05-08T14:06:09+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t76mbu/what_are_some_realistic_ways_to_make_a_little/okn4fcq/", "content": "If you're going to use AI for that, just ask them the same question you asked us. I've asked it for my niche " what would be a good starting point for an online business for _______ give 10 ideas for the top selling or top money making ideas. " Then it gave me 10 ideas and a few were possible for me. You could put in your career, job title, hobby, or dream or desire in that space as well if you don't have a niche. You could also try all of them.\n I just looked today (to find the AI prompt) and it gave me new ideas. So check back if you need more ideas.\n After all this, use the AI service and, ask it something similar "based on what I chose in the past, what are some other similar online businesses ideas for me, give me 10 ideas for the top selling or top money making ideas." If the AI doesn't know what you choose, add what you choose. This will give you more ideas similar to what you choose." }, { "id": "t1_okn5qxw", "author": "/u/storicax", "updated": "2026-05-08T14:12:16+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t76mbu/what_are_some_realistic_ways_to_make_a_little/okn5qxw/", "content": "Thanks dude.." }, { "id": "t1_olq2uv4", "author": "/u/ai-techguy001", "updated": "2026-05-14T08:25:44+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t76mbu/what_are_some_realistic_ways_to_make_a_little/olq2uv4/", "content": "this works but the hard part isn't building it, it's finding someone who wants to pay for it." }, { "id": "t1_om9hhf3", "author": "/u/Ok_Substance_8220", "updated": "2026-05-17T06:37:38+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t76mbu/what_are_some_realistic_ways_to_make_a_little/om9hhf3/", "content": "Can u give some more info for this" }, { "id": "t1_oknjm9j", "author": "/u/Comfortable-Gate3878", "updated": "2026-05-08T15:14:27+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t76mbu/what_are_some_realistic_ways_to_make_a_little/oknjm9j/", "content": "So far the best ways i've tried to make those extra monthly beermoney are:\n -stock photography/videography by first uploading some images/videos i took with my phone during holidays on sites like shutterstock and after some work i'm getting my consistend payouts; since i'm also into photography/videomaking i then started to upload more b-roll type clips and also some editorial images and it's super worth it, especially if you have some unused media sitting on a hard drive\n -i get a monthly amazon gift card just by having set Bing as my main search engine at work, using Microsoft Rewards\n -from time to time i do some surveys (when queueing or during my daily commute) on my phone with AttaPoll and if you focus on the shorter ones (<5-7 mins) they never screen you out\n Here's a full list of all the other stuff I've tried." }, { "id": "t1_oknk6m6", "author": "/u/storicax", "updated": "2026-05-08T15:16:57+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t76mbu/what_are_some_realistic_ways_to_make_a_little/oknk6m6/", "content": "Wow.. Thanks." }, { "id": "t1_oky9ob1", "author": "", "updated": "2026-05-10T06:15:46+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t76mbu/what_are_some_realistic_ways_to_make_a_little/oky9ob1/", "content": "[deleted]" }, { "id": "t1_okzac5p", "author": "/u/Comfortable-Gate3878", "updated": "2026-05-10T11:42:14+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t76mbu/what_are_some_realistic_ways_to_make_a_little/okzac5p/", "content": "It's in the list somewhere!" }, { "id": "t1_oknlfiy", "author": "/u/Rude-Bad-3280", "updated": "2026-05-08T15:22:26+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t76mbu/what_are_some_realistic_ways_to_make_a_little/oknlfiy/", "content": "If you know how to generate leads you can make money from resel software/app access. Dm and I will teach you for free. Just don’t be lazy and you can do extremely well" }, { "id": "t1_oknlvjt", "author": "/u/Former_Web_9426", "updated": "2026-05-08T15:24:23+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t76mbu/what_are_some_realistic_ways_to_make_a_little/oknlvjt/", "content": "Yes I do this too. Can I dm u because you might know some tricks that can help me" }, { "id": "t1_oknlyrv", "author": "/u/Rude-Bad-3280", "updated": "2026-05-08T15:24:46+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t76mbu/what_are_some_realistic_ways_to_make_a_little/oknlyrv/", "content": "Yes dm" }, { "id": "t1_oknm5l0", "author": "/u/hello_464", "updated": "2026-05-08T15:25:36+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t76mbu/what_are_some_realistic_ways_to_make_a_little/oknm5l0/", "content": "Can I dm?" }, { "id": "t1_oknm84n", "author": "/u/Rude-Bad-3280", "updated": "2026-05-08T15:25:55+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t76mbu/what_are_some_realistic_ways_to_make_a_little/oknm84n/", "content": "Yes" }, { "id": "t1_oknplhx", "author": "/u/AtmosphereExciting54", "updated": "2026-05-08T15:40:37+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t76mbu/what_are_some_realistic_ways_to_make_a_little/oknplhx/", "content": "Would also love to learn! Mind if I shoot you a DM, as well?" }, { "id": "t1_okt3dge", "author": "/u/Excellent_Trouble999", "updated": "2026-05-09T11:53:01+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t76mbu/what_are_some_realistic_ways_to_make_a_little/okt3dge/", "content": "Is it global opportunity? I'm interested too." }, { "id": "t1_okt7gwp", "author": "/u/Former_Web_9426", "updated": "2026-05-09T12:20:02+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t76mbu/what_are_some_realistic_ways_to_make_a_little/okt7gwp/", "content": "Dm" }, { "id": "t1_oknqx9z", "author": "/u/Tasty-Start8548", "updated": "2026-05-08T15:46:21+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t76mbu/what_are_some_realistic_ways_to_make_a_little/oknqx9z/", "content": "I would love to learn as well. Can you teach me your ways?" }, { "id": "t1_okoe1qo", "author": "/u/Rude-Bad-3280", "updated": "2026-05-08T17:28:56+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t76mbu/what_are_some_realistic_ways_to_make_a_little/okoe1qo/", "content": "I’ll dm" }, { "id": "t1_oko4tv9", "author": "/u/Zealousideal_Sir8538", "updated": "2026-05-08T16:48:13+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t76mbu/what_are_some_realistic_ways_to_make_a_little/oko4tv9/", "content": "Can I DM you as well about this?" }, { "id": "t1_okoe4se", "author": "/u/Rude-Bad-3280", "updated": "2026-05-08T17:29:18+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t76mbu/what_are_some_realistic_ways_to_make_a_little/okoe4se/", "content": "Yes dm" }, { "id": "t1_okoq2aa", "author": "/u/TheTapeBroker", "updated": "2026-05-08T18:23:03+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t76mbu/what_are_some_realistic_ways_to_make_a_little/okoq2aa/", "content": "Mir auch ☝🏼" }, { "id": "t1_okoz21v", "author": "/u/No-Scarcity6075", "updated": "2026-05-08T19:05:11+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t76mbu/what_are_some_realistic_ways_to_make_a_little/okoz21v/", "content": "Can I dm also?" }, { "id": "t1_okp00tp", "author": "/u/Electrical_Fig_1874", "updated": "2026-05-08T19:09:45+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t76mbu/what_are_some_realistic_ways_to_make_a_little/okp00tp/", "content": "Can i dm also?" }, { "id": "t1_okq5czb", "author": "/u/Rude-Bad-3280", "updated": "2026-05-08T22:39:51+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t76mbu/what_are_some_realistic_ways_to_make_a_little/okq5czb/", "content": "Check dm" }, { "id": "t1_okp76ob", "author": "/u/Local_Reindeer_7196", "updated": "2026-05-08T19:44:26+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t76mbu/what_are_some_realistic_ways_to_make_a_little/okp76ob/", "content": "I DM'd you" }, { "id": "t1_okpr5s8", "author": "/u/OkNail3466", "updated": "2026-05-08T21:21:35+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t76mbu/what_are_some_realistic_ways_to_make_a_little/okpr5s8/", "content": "can i dm?" }, { "id": "t1_okq5fl6", "author": "/u/Rude-Bad-3280", "updated": "2026-05-08T22:40:16+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t76mbu/what_are_some_realistic_ways_to_make_a_little/okq5fl6/", "content": "Check dm" }, { "id": "t1_okq6sg8", "author": "/u/Due-Comfortable-4775", "updated": "2026-05-08T22:48:10+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t76mbu/what_are_some_realistic_ways_to_make_a_little/okq6sg8/", "content": "Can I get some info on this too?" }, { "id": "t1_okq8ofc", "author": "/u/Rude-Bad-3280", "updated": "2026-05-08T22:59:13+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t76mbu/what_are_some_realistic_ways_to_make_a_little/okq8ofc/", "content": "Dm" }, { "id": "t1_okqneg1", "author": "/u/GoldRevolutionary723", "updated": "2026-05-09T00:26:14+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t76mbu/what_are_some_realistic_ways_to_make_a_little/okqneg1/", "content": "Sounds good. Can you explain a little bit about this one, I am interested" }, { "id": "t1_okslmoa", "author": "", "updated": "2026-05-09T09:27:14+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t76mbu/what_are_some_realistic_ways_to_make_a_little/okslmoa/", "content": "[deleted]" }, { "id": "t1_oksrihz", "author": "/u/Rude-Bad-3280", "updated": "2026-05-09T10:20:14+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t76mbu/what_are_some_realistic_ways_to_make_a_little/oksrihz/", "content": "Dm" }, { "id": "t1_oksn4zt", "author": "/u/Ahmd_0", "updated": "2026-05-09T09:41:33+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t76mbu/what_are_some_realistic_ways_to_make_a_little/oksn4zt/", "content": "can i dm mate?" }, { "id": "t1_oksrjau", "author": "/u/Rude-Bad-3280", "updated": "2026-05-09T10:20:25+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t76mbu/what_are_some_realistic_ways_to_make_a_little/oksrjau/", "content": "Dm" }, { "id": "t1_oksx0zk", "author": "/u/TopGift1001", "updated": "2026-05-09T11:06:00+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t76mbu/what_are_some_realistic_ways_to_make_a_little/oksx0zk/", "content": "Yes tell me" }, { "id": "t1_oksylbr", "author": "/u/Rude-Bad-3280", "updated": "2026-05-09T11:18:05+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t76mbu/what_are_some_realistic_ways_to_make_a_little/oksylbr/", "content": "Dm" }, { "id": "t1_okt43zl", "author": "/u/Aggravating-Two5574", "updated": "2026-05-09T11:58:02+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t76mbu/what_are_some_realistic_ways_to_make_a_little/okt43zl/", "content": "Interested" }, { "id": "t1_okt7966", "author": "/u/Rude-Bad-3280", "updated": "2026-05-09T12:18:42+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t76mbu/what_are_some_realistic_ways_to_make_a_little/okt7966/", "content": "Dm" }, { "id": "t1_oktyi2f", "author": "/u/Comfortable-Candy704", "updated": "2026-05-09T14:53:27+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t76mbu/what_are_some_realistic_ways_to_make_a_little/oktyi2f/", "content": "I’m interested as well." }, { "id": "t1_okuiust", "author": "/u/Rude-Bad-3280", "updated": "2026-05-09T16:36:54+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t76mbu/what_are_some_realistic_ways_to_make_a_little/okuiust/", "content": "Dm" }, { "id": "t1_ol2zcsx", "author": "/u/No_Air_379", "updated": "2026-05-10T23:11:28+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t76mbu/what_are_some_realistic_ways_to_make_a_little/ol2zcsx/", "content": "i wnrt to learn please!" }, { "id": "t1_olcdw1d", "author": "/u/Rare-Structure2794", "updated": "2026-05-12T10:14:35+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t76mbu/what_are_some_realistic_ways_to_make_a_little/olcdw1d/", "content": "can I DM mate" }, { "id": "t1_olci8ty", "author": "/u/Rude-Bad-3280", "updated": "2026-05-12T10:47:18+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t76mbu/what_are_some_realistic_ways_to_make_a_little/olci8ty/", "content": "Dm" }, { "id": "t1_oldq4ac", "author": "/u/DaoistTEvo90", "updated": "2026-05-12T14:45:07+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t76mbu/what_are_some_realistic_ways_to_make_a_little/oldq4ac/", "content": "can i dm u ?" }, { "id": "t1_olegbex", "author": "/u/Rude-Bad-3280", "updated": "2026-05-12T16:40:59+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t76mbu/what_are_some_realistic_ways_to_make_a_little/olegbex/", "content": "Dm" }, { "id": "t1_ols4swc", "author": "/u/Unusual-Mistake-5639", "updated": "2026-05-14T15:48:10+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t76mbu/what_are_some_realistic_ways_to_make_a_little/ols4swc/", "content": "may I dm you as well?" }, { "id": "t1_olw7ddx", "author": "/u/ai-techguy001", "updated": "2026-05-15T04:56:44+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t76mbu/what_are_some_realistic_ways_to_make_a_little/olw7ddx/", "content": "hard pass on the dm to learn thing, that's not how genuine advice works" }, { "id": "t1_oknv2os", "author": "/u/AnkushSantra", "updated": "2026-05-08T16:04:29+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t76mbu/what_are_some_realistic_ways_to_make_a_little/oknv2os/", "content": "Hi mate! If you're looking for something passive, try Brave Browser and Swash App. Both apps should make you a few bucks passively. If time permits, you can do tasks on Swash Earn.\n All-in-all, I make enough to cover my bills." }, { "id": "t1_oko58p8", "author": "/u/storicax", "updated": "2026-05-08T16:50:03+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t76mbu/what_are_some_realistic_ways_to_make_a_little/oko58p8/", "content": "Thanks for advice." }, { "id": "t1_oksevlf", "author": "/u/Embarrassed-Grand-65", "updated": "2026-05-09T08:19:31+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t76mbu/what_are_some_realistic_ways_to_make_a_little/oksevlf/", "content": "3c a day? Ya jokin" }, { "id": "t1_oksvt4z", "author": "/u/Archiebald94", "updated": "2026-05-09T10:56:27+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t76mbu/what_are_some_realistic_ways_to_make_a_little/oksvt4z/", "content": "MF installed solar and pays no bills lol" }, { "id": "t1_oksw1w6", "author": "/u/Embarrassed-Grand-65", "updated": "2026-05-09T10:58:22+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t76mbu/what_are_some_realistic_ways_to_make_a_little/oksw1w6/", "content": "HAHA!" }, { "id": "t1_oky6e8d", "author": "", "updated": "2026-05-10T05:47:14+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t76mbu/what_are_some_realistic_ways_to_make_a_little/oky6e8d/", "content": "[deleted]" }, { "id": "t1_ol1epw6", "author": "/u/AnkushSantra", "updated": "2026-05-10T18:17:49+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t76mbu/what_are_some_realistic_ways_to_make_a_little/ol1epw6/", "content": "It's pretty simple, no rocket science at all. Brave Browser is a chromium-based browser; you just need to download the browser, install it, sign up for Brave Rewards, and use it as your default browser.\n Swash App is an extension available on swashapp.io. Just download the extension and create an account; that's all.\n For Swash Earn, you'll be needing the Swash Extension working. Visit earn.swashapp.io , and you'll find tasks to do.\n Brave shows ads based on the websites you visit, as system notifications, rather than on specific websites." }, { "id": "t1_okqappy", "author": "/u/ItsBeamerU", "updated": "2026-05-08T23:11:20+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t76mbu/what_are_some_realistic_ways_to_make_a_little/okqappy/", "content": "To run a phone farm with 4-5 cheap old phones.\n Atm making $1,5 because in testing phase but could reach more in the coming weeks\n https://preview.redd.it/sfkvsfv0xzzg1.jpeg?width=1290&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=80fe9d7e12c4758bcb3a8c216a4d825ca65465d1" }, { "id": "t1_okqk7u9", "author": "/u/True-Enthusiasm9560", "updated": "2026-05-09T00:07:05+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t76mbu/what_are_some_realistic_ways_to_make_a_little/okqk7u9/", "content": "Best passive I’ve had so far, I used EarnApp but not giving much, Unity Network App, on the other end is quite consistent and giving a decent passive stream" }, { "id": "t1_okv6kly", "author": "/u/Disastrous_War5589", "updated": "2026-05-09T18:35:58+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t76mbu/what_are_some_realistic_ways_to_make_a_little/okv6kly/", "content": "Tell me more about how the phone farming Works and where to sign up for this. Thank you!" }, { "id": "t1_okvn28n", "author": "/u/ItsBeamerU", "updated": "2026-05-09T20:04:42+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t76mbu/what_are_some_realistic_ways_to_make_a_little/okvn28n/", "content": "Check dm" }, { "id": "t1_omfv78m", "author": "/u/Humble-Procedure-206", "updated": "2026-05-18T06:55:11+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t76mbu/what_are_some_realistic_ways_to_make_a_little/omfv78m/", "content": "Pls tell me also" }, { "id": "t1_olt10ih", "author": "/u/Crazy_Plankton5322", "updated": "2026-05-14T18:12:07+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t76mbu/what_are_some_realistic_ways_to_make_a_little/olt10ih/", "content": "Tell me more about it please" }, { "id": "t1_olt1b01", "author": "/u/ItsBeamerU", "updated": "2026-05-14T18:13:27+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t76mbu/what_are_some_realistic_ways_to_make_a_little/olt1b01/", "content": "Check dm" }, { "id": "t1_om1yz94", "author": "/u/Solid_Ad_9849", "updated": "2026-05-16T01:17:45+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t76mbu/what_are_some_realistic_ways_to_make_a_little/om1yz94/", "content": "+1 me too" }, { "id": "t1_olv0u7y", "author": "/u/Zestyclose_Winner995", "updated": "2026-05-15T00:17:36+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t76mbu/what_are_some_realistic_ways_to_make_a_little/olv0u7y/", "content": "Could you explain this one to me more? And explain how to download it" }, { "id": "t1_olv2uam", "author": "/u/ItsBeamerU", "updated": "2026-05-15T00:29:35+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t76mbu/what_are_some_realistic_ways_to_make_a_little/olv2uam/", "content": "Check dm" }, { "id": "t1_olv39jc", "author": "/u/ItsBeamerU", "updated": "2026-05-15T00:32:08+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t76mbu/what_are_some_realistic_ways_to_make_a_little/olv39jc/", "content": "I cannot dm you" }, { "id": "t1_olwjq9e", "author": "/u/ItsBeamerU", "updated": "2026-05-15T06:38:32+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t76mbu/what_are_some_realistic_ways_to_make_a_little/olwjq9e/", "content": "Can you dm me?" }, { "id": "t1_okspw8t", "author": "/u/storicax", "updated": "2026-05-09T10:06:11+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t76mbu/what_are_some_realistic_ways_to_make_a_little/okspw8t/", "content": "What app?" }, { "id": "t1_oksroy8", "author": "/u/ItsBeamerU", "updated": "2026-05-09T10:21:47+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t76mbu/what_are_some_realistic_ways_to_make_a_little/oksroy8/", "content": "The Unity App turns your phone into a mini telecom helper. It runs background checks for networks and pays you fiat (usd, eur, etc) or crypto for it. You become a ULO (Unity License Operator).\n To earn, you need a license. On the official marketplace they are 50/50 (you get 50%). I have better 40/60 licenses, you keep 60%.\n If you’re interested in the 40/60, just DM me." }, { "id": "t1_okmo45u", "author": "/u/IAmSoDoneLmao", "updated": "2026-05-08T12:45:36+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t76mbu/what_are_some_realistic_ways_to_make_a_little/okmo45u/", "content": "Vinted, people will buy anything. This has made me an extra £400 in a few months as I sold some of my collectables. This does involve posting things though, luckily a locker is only around the corner from me." }, { "id": "t1_okmosog", "author": "/u/storicax", "updated": "2026-05-08T12:49:13+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t76mbu/what_are_some_realistic_ways_to_make_a_little/okmosog/", "content": "That’s awesome.. Selling stuff is a great idea, but I’m looking for something strictly digital right now where I don’t have to ship physical items. Thanks though" }, { "id": "t1_olfzehn", "author": "/u/Illuminatus6666", "updated": "2026-05-12T20:46:58+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t76mbu/what_are_some_realistic_ways_to_make_a_little/olfzehn/", "content": "Yeah I used to buy laptops and then refurbish them for super cheap I even wrote a PDF guide on how to do it when you know nothing about them" }, { "id": "t1_ont576j", "author": "/u/Ok-Amoeba-925", "updated": "2026-05-25T16:12:17+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t76mbu/what_are_some_realistic_ways_to_make_a_little/ont576j/", "content": "Is there a way for me to access that PDF guide?" }, { "id": "t1_okn9vdp", "author": "/u/SpiritedInflation835", "updated": "2026-05-08T14:31:01+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t76mbu/what_are_some_realistic_ways_to_make_a_little/okn9vdp/", "content": "Microlending platforms." }, { "id": "t1_oknalyt", "author": "/u/storicax", "updated": "2026-05-08T14:34:21+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t76mbu/what_are_some_realistic_ways_to_make_a_little/oknalyt/", "content": "Like what?" }, { "id": "t1_oknclgu", "author": "/u/SpiritedInflation835", "updated": "2026-05-08T14:43:20+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t76mbu/what_are_some_realistic_ways_to_make_a_little/oknclgu/", "content": "Websites where people apply for loans. E.g. someone needs 20k for a new car, and you chip in $100 or whatever amount you can spare." }, { "id": "t1_okndewv", "author": "/u/storicax", "updated": "2026-05-08T14:46:57+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t76mbu/what_are_some_realistic_ways_to_make_a_little/okndewv/", "content": "Got it. That requires upfront capital though, right? I’m mostly looking for simple remote tasks or apps where I can earn extra cash from zero, without risking or locking up my own money for months" }, { "id": "t1_okne3xj", "author": "/u/SpiritedInflation835", "updated": "2026-05-08T14:50:03+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t76mbu/what_are_some_realistic_ways_to_make_a_little/okne3xj/", "content": "Yup, but that's passive income........... you earn interests while doing nothing.\n Well, the subreddit is called passive income." }, { "id": "t1_okng62b", "author": "/u/storicax", "updated": "2026-05-08T14:59:09+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t76mbu/what_are_some_realistic_ways_to_make_a_little/okng62b/", "content": "Hahaha… yr right.. That wasn’t really what I had in mind though. But thank you so much for the advice. I’ll go ahead and try out other options.." }, { "id": "t1_okocy9x", "author": "/u/Patie2122", "updated": "2026-05-08T17:24:06+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t76mbu/what_are_some_realistic_ways_to_make_a_little/okocy9x/", "content": "Can you please tell me more about this?" }, { "id": "t1_okog8wx", "author": "/u/SpiritedInflation835", "updated": "2026-05-08T17:38:45+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t76mbu/what_are_some_realistic_ways_to_make_a_little/okog8wx/", "content": "prosper.com is a US peer-to-peer lending site.\n Where I live, the two biggest companies are lend.ch and cashare.ch .\n Advantages: You can invest with little money, and every month you'll receive a repayment (principal + interest). Seeing that the money trickles back monthly can be a valuable motivation.\n On the platform where I am, due to my selection of loans and borrowers, I enjoy an interest of 7.6%.\n Disadvantages: You'll have to diversify to offset the few rotten eggs in your basket. In my case, one customer borrowed about 15k from dozens of lenders to buy a car. He vanished abroad. He still owes me about 200 USD. In my portfolio, I have four bankrupt borrowers (among circa 70).\n Another disadvantage is that some credits can run for several years, e.g. 60 months. Some platforms allow you to sell the loans, others don't. So you might be tied to non-liquid assets." }, { "id": "t1_okqa3eo", "author": "/u/No-Establishment8457", "updated": "2026-05-08T23:07:42+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t76mbu/what_are_some_realistic_ways_to_make_a_little/okqa3eo/", "content": "Made decent money with Prosper. Pays every business day too." }, { "id": "t1_oks247c", "author": "/u/Disastrous_War5589", "updated": "2026-05-09T06:23:28+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t76mbu/what_are_some_realistic_ways_to_make_a_little/oks247c/", "content": "Hey! Thanks for providing more info on this. Question: what are the tax implications on the interest earned? Is there a way to pay less in taxes on the interest?" }, { "id": "t1_oksat8e", "author": "/u/SpiritedInflation835", "updated": "2026-05-09T07:41:43+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t76mbu/what_are_some_realistic_ways_to_make_a_little/oksat8e/", "content": "It's taxable as normal income... but obviously you didn't have to work for that income.\n My lending company issues an income and balance statement every year, summarizing the outstanding loans from all the borrowers, and giving a total of the interests paid." }, { "id": "t1_oko4kbd", "author": "", "updated": "2026-05-08T16:47:02+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t76mbu/what_are_some_realistic_ways_to_make_a_little/oko4kbd/", "content": "[deleted]" }, { "id": "t1_okr31kk", "author": "/u/Kath-r-in", "updated": "2026-05-09T02:03:18+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t76mbu/what_are_some_realistic_ways_to_make_a_little/okr31kk/", "content": "How did you get approved to be an Amazon affiliate without channels, following, etc??" }, { "id": "t1_oko6fw7", "author": "/u/storicax", "updated": "2026-05-08T16:55:21+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t76mbu/what_are_some_realistic_ways_to_make_a_little/oko6fw7/", "content": "Is the video can using an AI?" }, { "id": "t1_okomvm2", "author": "", "updated": "2026-05-08T18:08:28+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t76mbu/what_are_some_realistic_ways_to_make_a_little/okomvm2/", "content": "[deleted]" }, { "id": "t1_okq4jkd", "author": "/u/storicax", "updated": "2026-05-08T22:35:06+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t76mbu/what_are_some_realistic_ways_to_make_a_little/okq4jkd/", "content": "Thanks for sharing." }, { "id": "t1_om9f76s", "author": "/u/Ok_Substance_8220", "updated": "2026-05-17T06:17:34+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t76mbu/what_are_some_realistic_ways_to_make_a_little/om9f76s/", "content": "Bro I checked it out and this is lowkey underrated also I just wanna is this legit can u tell me??" }, { "id": "t1_okp1awx", "author": "/u/BuscandoGuiasSpain", "updated": "2026-05-08T19:15:56+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t76mbu/what_are_some_realistic_ways_to_make_a_little/okp1awx/", "content": "Have you tried beermoney platforms? Beermoney is the concept of microtasking in different online platforms and getting paid through PayPal or other digital banks (Revolut, Binance, gift cards...). The types of platforms basically are:\n\n- Participating in Academic Research & Studies: Prolific, Respondent...\n- Passive income through sharing spare wifi: HoneyGain, Pawns, AddSlice...\n- Get-Paid-To (GPT) sites like Freecash or Cash In Style\n- Training AI through the evaluation of audiovisual content: Outlier, ClickWorkers...\n- Freelancing in Upwork, Mercor...\n- Microtasking and visiting websites: Serpclix, Clickspaid, Microworkers, 2Captcha...\n- Survey sites like PaidViewpoint or StreetBees\n- Or even apps that pay you to walk like Macadam Last year we created an excel file in Google Drive with ALL the online work platforms we have tested, with information about each platform and the most relevant details: minimum withdrawal, payout options, ratings, types, which are legit and which aren't... direct links & referral links are separated in different columns for you to choose.\n Also, you'll see the monthly register with the earnings we've achieved since 2024 in the other pages of the excel. Remember that you won't get rich from doing this, but it can be a realistic side income if you include it in your routine!\n Hope you like it, feel free to give your opinion or ask." }, { "id": "t1_okq5q0t", "author": "/u/storicax", "updated": "2026-05-08T22:41:56+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t76mbu/what_are_some_realistic_ways_to_make_a_little/okq5q0t/", "content": "Thank you so much for taking the time to share this. I’ve actually tried looking into AI training like Outlier before, but it’s great to see all the other categories laid out so clearly like Serpclix or Clickspaid.\n You mentioned an Excel file in Google Drive with all the details is there any chance you could share the link to that? That sounds like an absolute goldmine, especially to help me filter which ones work globally (since I’m based in Indonesia)." }, { "id": "t1_okq7ncg", "author": "/u/BuscandoGuiasSpain", "updated": "2026-05-08T22:53:11+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t76mbu/what_are_some_realistic_ways_to_make_a_little/okq7ncg/", "content": "It's in the same comment, but you can also find it here: https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1ZsIYF6F43r8e2AYwTqzBhx8hiOExrfHoEaDG0l4yg4M/edit?gid=0#gid=0" }, { "id": "t1_okq8lc1", "author": "/u/storicax", "updated": "2026-05-08T22:58:42+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t76mbu/what_are_some_realistic_ways_to_make_a_little/okq8lc1/", "content": "Wow thank u so much" }, { "id": "t1_olnxnr9", "author": "/u/Huge-Emphasis-8840", "updated": "2026-05-13T23:39:43+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t76mbu/what_are_some_realistic_ways_to_make_a_little/olnxnr9/", "content": "did it work for you?" }, { "id": "t1_okpqmrb", "author": "/u/serial_chiller_____", "updated": "2026-05-08T21:18:51+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t76mbu/what_are_some_realistic_ways_to_make_a_little/okpqmrb/", "content": "If your expectations are realistic, there are definitely ways to make a bit of money online daily. I mostly use my phone and laptop for surveys, small tasks, and occasional GPT apps, and AttaPoll has honestly been the easiest one to stick with because it doesn’t feel complicated. For passive stuff, you can also check Honeygain or similar bandwidth-sharing apps, although the earnings are slower. Nothing here replaces a real income, but for extra cash it can actually help over time. But, if you connect multiple devices on different network you can multiply your income with Honeygain, just make sure you don't use VPN because you risk ban.\n Disclamer: If you wish you can register on Attapoll with my link and you will get small sign up bonus.\n Good luck ✌️" }, { "id": "t1_okrqa15", "author": "", "updated": "2026-05-09T04:43:39+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t76mbu/what_are_some_realistic_ways_to_make_a_little/okrqa15/", "content": "[deleted]" }, { "id": "t1_oky2vi3", "author": "/u/storicax", "updated": "2026-05-10T05:17:28+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t76mbu/what_are_some_realistic_ways_to_make_a_little/oky2vi3/", "content": "Thanks" }, { "id": "t1_om6fdar", "author": "/u/MsgIg", "updated": "2026-05-16T18:56:24+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t76mbu/what_are_some_realistic_ways_to_make_a_little/om6fdar/", "content": "You didn't post which site/app to be doing clippings?" }, { "id": "t1_okn3nff", "author": "/u/GoneAWOL1", "updated": "2026-05-08T14:02:33+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t76mbu/what_are_some_realistic_ways_to_make_a_little/okn3nff/", "content": "There are several research platforms that pay for for your thoughts and opinions. It's not surveys where you fill out a form, they can be video one on one interviews, online group focus groups where it is a group discussion or unmoderated tasks. They can pay quite well.\n I have a pinned post link on my profile where I've listed a few of them if this kind of thing interests you." }, { "id": "t1_oknio9h", "author": "/u/InevitableBed6924", "updated": "2026-05-08T15:10:17+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t76mbu/what_are_some_realistic_ways_to_make_a_little/oknio9h/", "content": "Surveys are the most basic ones but the restrictions and requirements can get annoying. Tasks on School Solver works too. They usually pay more than surveys especially the more challenigng ones, but totally worth it" }, { "id": "t1_oks22vc", "author": "/u/mhsfd", "updated": "2026-05-09T06:23:08+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t76mbu/what_are_some_realistic_ways_to_make_a_little/oks22vc/", "content": "Also, if you walk a lot, WeWards is nice to just rack up a few coins for hitting a high step count (ideally ~10k) each day, and it adds up to a $10 gift card here and there. Same thing with using Microsoft Rewards, except you get points for searching." }, { "id": "t1_onewo9h", "author": "/u/Patient_Award_3516", "updated": "2026-05-23T11:48:33+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t76mbu/what_are_some_realistic_ways_to_make_a_little/onewo9h/", "content": "I’ve tried quite a few gaming apps, and honestly, most of them were pretty inconsistent. Apps like Solitaire Cube or Blackout Bingo usually require entry fees or a lot of time spent grinding before you see any real return, which kind of defeats the purpose. I had a much better experience with this app/game testing platform because it isn’t limited to just one type of game. I can choose between games, surveys, or simple testing tasks based on how much time I have. The payouts were more straightforward and faster, and I never felt like I was putting my own money at risk just to play. Overall, it feels more flexible and far less gimmicky than most game-only apps." }, { "id": "t1_okn5utn", "author": "/u/chews10", "updated": "2026-05-08T14:12:46+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t76mbu/what_are_some_realistic_ways_to_make_a_little/okn5utn/", "content": "A good app to just have on your phone is 1Q. It is a survey app that will randomly pop up questions for you to answer and will immediately pay out 25 cents to a couple dollars per survey. There is no screeners involved. I just have notifications on so it lets me know when there is a question for me to answer. There's no consistent timing but I've made a few hundred in the past year. Takes minimal time and effort. Every little amount of money adds up! Let me know if you want more info!" }, { "id": "t1_okn5yg8", "author": "/u/moneylab_", "updated": "2026-05-08T14:13:13+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t76mbu/what_are_some_realistic_ways_to_make_a_little/okn5yg8/", "content": "Upskill on AI assisted development." }, { "id": "t1_okn68fj", "author": "/u/storicax", "updated": "2026-05-08T14:14:30+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t76mbu/what_are_some_realistic_ways_to_make_a_little/okn68fj/", "content": "Can u give more details?" }, { "id": "t1_okn6vv2", "author": "/u/moneylab_", "updated": "2026-05-08T14:17:31+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t76mbu/what_are_some_realistic_ways_to_make_a_little/okn6vv2/", "content": "What I mean is if you start to learn about tools like Claude, Codex etc, it will mean that whenever you have an idea, you can actually turn it into a concept.\n Obviously there's no guarantee you'll make money as there's so much more to it but if you start to spend time in this area, you'll be so far ahead of general public that at some point something will click." }, { "id": "t1_okn8bji", "author": "/u/storicax", "updated": "2026-05-08T14:24:02+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t76mbu/what_are_some_realistic_ways_to_make_a_little/okn8bji/", "content": "Thanks for explaining.. I totally agree. Searching for quick daily cash, even pennies, is surprisingly difficult. It makes much more sense to build my skills slowly over time for a much bigger potential payoff later" }, { "id": "t1_okoqrz7", "author": "/u/TheTapeBroker", "updated": "2026-05-08T18:26:23+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t76mbu/what_are_some_realistic_ways_to_make_a_little/okoqrz7/", "content": "Ich Launche jetzt bald ein Tool welches über Claude jede Idee in eine App verwandelt - Vertrieb über meine Instagram Seiten" }, { "id": "t1_okneu54", "author": "/u/HappyCaterpillar2409", "updated": "2026-05-08T14:53:16+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t76mbu/what_are_some_realistic_ways_to_make_a_little/okneu54/", "content": "Take surveys" }, { "id": "t1_oknglq7", "author": "/u/storicax", "updated": "2026-05-08T15:01:05+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t76mbu/what_are_some_realistic_ways_to_make_a_little/oknglq7/", "content": "Thanks for advice.." }, { "id": "t1_oknh6gg", "author": "/u/HappyCaterpillar2409", "updated": "2026-05-08T15:03:38+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t76mbu/what_are_some_realistic_ways_to_make_a_little/oknh6gg/", "content": "Happy to help!" }, { "id": "t1_okp0izi", "author": "/u/Digital_Surface_Labs", "updated": "2026-05-08T19:12:11+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t76mbu/what_are_some_realistic_ways_to_make_a_little/okp0izi/", "content": "Are you open to things that payout months later? Lotta good things will take time to payout" }, { "id": "t1_okq54cg", "author": "/u/storicax", "updated": "2026-05-08T22:38:28+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t76mbu/what_are_some_realistic_ways_to_make_a_little/okq54cg/", "content": "Like what?" }, { "id": "t1_oktzxvn", "author": "/u/spaceship369", "updated": "2026-05-09T15:00:54+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t76mbu/what_are_some_realistic_ways_to_make_a_little/oktzxvn/", "content": "The grind is real, but can be done easier with software" }, { "id": "t1_okrtp2f", "author": "/u/Similar-Pineapple976", "updated": "2026-05-09T05:11:13+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t76mbu/what_are_some_realistic_ways_to_make_a_little/okrtp2f/", "content": "Share details please 🙏🏼" }, { "id": "t1_olhhpzd", "author": "/u/Adventurous_Pool_628", "updated": "2026-05-13T01:35:10+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t76mbu/what_are_some_realistic_ways_to_make_a_little/olhhpzd/", "content": "i would be interested" }, { "id": "t1_okpcsv2", "author": "/u/Powerful_Equipment84", "updated": "2026-05-08T20:10:58+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t76mbu/what_are_some_realistic_ways_to_make_a_little/okpcsv2/", "content": "elevenlabs voice clone if you have a good sounding mic. need audacity (free) to record, edit. Upload your professional voice clone to elevenlabs and make money after that, one time time cost (and mic if you dont have one). if you want more info dm me\n https://preview.redd.it/2g9e0yjs0zzg1.png?width=887&format=png&auto=webp&s=1618fd28fbe0d93ce6173a220b5277deddf067b3" }, { "id": "t1_okq6dh4", "author": "/u/storicax", "updated": "2026-05-08T22:45:43+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t76mbu/what_are_some_realistic_ways_to_make_a_little/okq6dh4/", "content": "This sounds interesting! .. don’t you need to pay for the ‘Creator’ subscription first to unlock the Professional Voice Cloning feature before you can upload and monetize it?" }, { "id": "t1_okrz6zz", "author": "/u/Powerful_Equipment84", "updated": "2026-05-09T05:57:52+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t76mbu/what_are_some_realistic_ways_to_make_a_little/okrz6zz/", "content": "Thats true, you do need a microphone to record audio with high quality and you do need the Creator subscription for one month, then when your voice is live you can downgrade and pay less. I got a website with articles talking about only that and a link where you pay 11$ for the one month when you join with that link." }, { "id": "t1_oksq4xo", "author": "/u/storicax", "updated": "2026-05-09T10:08:18+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t76mbu/what_are_some_realistic_ways_to_make_a_little/oksq4xo/", "content": "Can i get the link?" }, { "id": "t1_om6ip5c", "author": "/u/MsgIg", "updated": "2026-05-16T19:13:59+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t76mbu/what_are_some_realistic_ways_to_make_a_little/om6ip5c/", "content": "DM them by clicking their name and send them a message requesting link." }, { "id": "t1_okpz6u7", "author": "/u/ApprehensivePea4161", "updated": "2026-05-08T22:04:13+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t76mbu/what_are_some_realistic_ways_to_make_a_little/okpz6u7/", "content": "Sell something you’re good ar" }, { "id": "t1_okr616p", "author": "/u/Obvious_Rub_2691", "updated": "2026-05-09T02:22:03+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t76mbu/what_are_some_realistic_ways_to_make_a_little/okr616p/", "content": "What if sleeping and eating are the only things I’m good at?" }, { "id": "t1_okrit1q", "author": "/u/carlosbc11", "updated": "2026-05-09T03:48:44+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t76mbu/what_are_some_realistic_ways_to_make_a_little/okrit1q/", "content": "Then, mattress and food" }, { "id": "t1_oks4rel", "author": "/u/ApprehensivePea4161", "updated": "2026-05-09T06:47:10+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t76mbu/what_are_some_realistic_ways_to_make_a_little/oks4rel/", "content": "Do vlogging" }, { "id": "t1_okql7oz", "author": "/u/True-Enthusiasm9560", "updated": "2026-05-09T00:13:04+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t76mbu/what_are_some_realistic_ways_to_make_a_little/okql7oz/", "content": "If you are looking for something ‘active’ to do, definitely Fiver, a while back somebody made a post about selling your voice to these AI databases but I’m yet to order a good microphone and try that, in the meantime, After reading Someones post in Jan, I believe in this sub, I have researched and been trying this app since Feb, now with 8-9 phones and iPads i had in the house!\n https://preview.redd.it/9onrnk2w700h1.jpeg?width=1320&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=0b343b173791a0a514834f2abb3a19701eeb2593\n Very happy with the rewards. Every U is a $ Completely passive" }, { "id": "t1_okqti5h", "author": "/u/storicax", "updated": "2026-05-09T01:04:03+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t76mbu/what_are_some_realistic_ways_to_make_a_little/okqti5h/", "content": "Thanks for advice." }, { "id": "t1_oks7e2h", "author": "/u/True-Enthusiasm9560", "updated": "2026-05-09T07:10:23+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t76mbu/what_are_some_realistic_ways_to_make_a_little/oks7e2h/", "content": "sorry I forgot to mention, the app is Unity Network App, or U app" }, { "id": "t1_oksv6vl", "author": "/u/Archiebald94", "updated": "2026-05-09T10:51:33+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t76mbu/what_are_some_realistic_ways_to_make_a_little/oksv6vl/", "content": "If you don’t mind investing a little money and time before you see the results (2-5 months depending on how fast you learn, how much time you spend on it, how much money you’re willing to invest while you’re in the “learning curve” phase) but want something that is practically uncapped once you master it, I suggest look into PPC advertising - Meta, Google, Bing, or even Reddit. You do need a bit of knowledge of advertising, ROI and some systems in place (hence the “learning curve” phase), but you can learn it and develop it into a revenue stream for yourself" }, { "id": "t1_okto0sf", "author": "/u/No-Helicopter-4652", "updated": "2026-05-09T13:57:58+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t76mbu/what_are_some_realistic_ways_to_make_a_little/okto0sf/", "content": "I went this route and the big shift for me was treating it like learning a trade, not a side app. I started with tiny budgets on Google and Meta, promoting simple affiliate offers and local lead gen so I could see clicks and leads come in the same day, even if profit was break-even at first.\n What helped was picking one traffic source, one offer type, and tracking everything from day one. I used cheap landing pages, basic UTM tagging, and watched which keywords/creatives actually brought opt-ins or calls instead of just clicks.\n I also lurked Reddit a lot to see what people actually complain about and then built offers/angles around that. I tried manual searching and keyword alerts, then ended up on Pulse for Reddit after messing with Google Alerts and Awario because it caught threads I was missing where people were literally asking for what I was selling.\n If OP wants “money today,” I’d start with micro-budgets and aim for fast feedback, not big profit, for the first couple months." }, { "id": "t1_olnlpdk", "author": "/u/Puzzleheaded-Mood322", "updated": "2026-05-13T22:34:09+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t76mbu/what_are_some_realistic_ways_to_make_a_little/olnlpdk/", "content": "How profitable is learning this?" }, { "id": "t1_okt7gu4", "author": "/u/Wonderful-Throat2697", "updated": "2026-05-09T12:20:01+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t76mbu/what_are_some_realistic_ways_to_make_a_little/okt7gu4/", "content": "Gambling" }, { "id": "t1_okvn4kr", "author": "/u/Ipogenie-ai", "updated": "2026-05-09T20:05:03+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t76mbu/what_are_some_realistic_ways_to_make_a_little/okvn4kr/", "content": "A lot of people underestimate how far small online income streams can compound over time, especially when you focus on building a skill or digital asset instead of chasing quick money!" }, { "id": "t1_oky2mwp", "author": "/u/storicax", "updated": "2026-05-10T05:15:32+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t76mbu/what_are_some_realistic_ways_to_make_a_little/oky2mwp/", "content": "Thanks." }, { "id": "t1_okx251q", "author": "/u/EntrepreneurKitty", "updated": "2026-05-10T01:06:22+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t76mbu/what_are_some_realistic_ways_to_make_a_little/okx251q/", "content": "OF, camming, affiliate marketing, adult CPA marketing (underrated)" }, { "id": "t1_olno5iy", "author": "/u/Puzzleheaded-Mood322", "updated": "2026-05-13T22:47:15+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t76mbu/what_are_some_realistic_ways_to_make_a_little/olno5iy/", "content": "Whats adult CPA marketing" }, { "id": "t1_ol22akh", "author": "/u/Past_Ebb_3392", "updated": "2026-05-10T20:12:14+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t76mbu/what_are_some_realistic_ways_to_make_a_little/ol22akh/", "content": "Have you looked into Atlas earth" }, { "id": "t1_olnq19w", "author": "/u/Puzzleheaded-Mood322", "updated": "2026-05-13T22:57:33+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t76mbu/what_are_some_realistic_ways_to_make_a_little/olnq19w/", "content": "How do you make money with that?" }, { "id": "t1_olnrxyx", "author": "/u/Past_Ebb_3392", "updated": "2026-05-13T23:08:04+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t76mbu/what_are_some_realistic_ways_to_make_a_little/olnrxyx/", "content": "So it’s a game where you buy land and you randomly get different types of land when you buy that pay a certain amount per second for owning it. As soon as you reach $5 you can cash with Venmo or gift cards.\n You can get land by buying it with your own money, playing games for points to buy it, and there’s a few other ways.\n You can honestly play it for free it just takes longer putting money in speeds it up." }, { "id": "t1_okmqffu", "author": "", "updated": "2026-05-08T12:57:40+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t76mbu/what_are_some_realistic_ways_to_make_a_little/okmqffu/", "content": "[deleted]" }, { "id": "t1_okmthey", "author": "/u/Delicious-Name1044", "updated": "2026-05-08T13:13:06+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t76mbu/what_are_some_realistic_ways_to_make_a_little/okmthey/", "content": "Unatumia fulu gani. I have tried to register but inanishow unsupported country. Nipeni ujanja." }, { "id": "t1_okni7c4", "author": "/u/Propolipm", "updated": "2026-05-08T15:08:12+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t76mbu/what_are_some_realistic_ways_to_make_a_little/okni7c4/", "content": "Io da qualche mese faccio matched betting con Quelli dei Bonus e con un paio di ore al giorno faccio quasi uno stipendio medio. È possibile farlo da remoto tranquillamente basta smartphone e PC. È semplice e nel gruppo ti spiegano tutto (e te lo dice un boomer). Pensaci" }, { "id": "t1_okoqvkv", "author": "/u/TheTapeBroker", "updated": "2026-05-08T18:26:51+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t76mbu/what_are_some_realistic_ways_to_make_a_little/okoqvkv/", "content": "Postbankkonto muss man da haben oder?" }, { "id": "t1_oknmiu5", "author": "/u/Original-Major5104", "updated": "2026-05-08T15:27:13+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t76mbu/what_are_some_realistic_ways_to_make_a_little/oknmiu5/", "content": "Honestly surveys on PaidViewpoint, HeyCash have helped me tremendously. Made about $200 on there for the past year, it may not be much but when it comes to paying smaller bills or stacking, it helps." }, { "id": "t1_oko5snp", "author": "/u/storicax", "updated": "2026-05-08T16:52:30+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t76mbu/what_are_some_realistic_ways_to_make_a_little/oko5snp/", "content": "Thanks for sharing." }, { "id": "t1_oknsyke", "author": "/u/SAM-Academy", "updated": "2026-05-08T15:55:09+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t76mbu/what_are_some_realistic_ways_to_make_a_little/oknsyke/", "content": "Most Make Money advice is just recycled trash. Here is the boring, honest stack\n ​If you want $5-$20 today without a boss or a scam, stop looking for miracle apps and use these three specific channels\n ​Prolific: This is the gold standard for academic research. No screen-outs after 10 minutes of work. It’s honest pay for honest data.\n ​UserTesting: If you can talk for 20 minutes while browsing a website, it’s a flat $10. Do two of these, and you’ve got your lunch money.\n ​The Micro-Asset Strategy: This is where the real scale is. Don't trade time for pennies solve a tiny, specific problem a checklist, a template, a guide and host it where people are already looking.\n ​" }, { "id": "t1_oko638z", "author": "/u/storicax", "updated": "2026-05-08T16:53:49+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t76mbu/what_are_some_realistic_ways_to_make_a_little/oko638z/", "content": "Thank u for sharing." }, { "id": "t1_okol0r0", "author": "/u/workdreambig", "updated": "2026-05-08T17:59:59+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t76mbu/what_are_some_realistic_ways_to_make_a_little/okol0r0/", "content": "I make extra money online doing simple gigs like app testing, user research, surveys, and get-paid-to sites. Makes an extra $300 to $500 per month. What you earn from these types of tasks largely depends on your location and demographics. Try searching sites like SurveyLeo or UserIterviews for the opportunities." }, { "id": "t1_okq4dio", "author": "/u/storicax", "updated": "2026-05-08T22:34:06+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t76mbu/what_are_some_realistic_ways_to_make_a_little/okq4dio/", "content": "Its from 1 account per platform for u makes 300- $ 500?" }, { "id": "t1_okqdt50", "author": "/u/workdreambig", "updated": "2026-05-08T23:29:19+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t76mbu/what_are_some_realistic_ways_to_make_a_little/okqdt50/", "content": "Using several sites and apps. It all adds up." }, { "id": "t1_okoyz7h", "author": "", "updated": "2026-05-08T19:04:49+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t76mbu/what_are_some_realistic_ways_to_make_a_little/okoyz7h/", "content": "[deleted]" }, { "id": "t1_okq4ocg", "author": "/u/storicax", "updated": "2026-05-08T22:35:52+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t76mbu/what_are_some_realistic_ways_to_make_a_little/okq4ocg/", "content": "Check DM" }, { "id": "t1_oktpach", "author": "/u/Aggravating-Two5574", "updated": "2026-05-09T14:04:54+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t76mbu/what_are_some_realistic_ways_to_make_a_little/oktpach/", "content": "Interested" }, { "id": "t1_ol67po7", "author": "/u/Okorie392", "updated": "2026-05-11T13:03:57+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t76mbu/what_are_some_realistic_ways_to_make_a_little/ol67po7/", "content": "Interested pls can I drop a dm?" }, { "id": "t1_okqobzc", "author": "/u/pensink60", "updated": "2026-05-09T00:32:01+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t76mbu/what_are_some_realistic_ways_to_make_a_little/okqobzc/", "content": "OF 😛" }, { "id": "t1_okqwx68", "author": "/u/Purplehashes", "updated": "2026-05-09T01:25:22+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t76mbu/what_are_some_realistic_ways_to_make_a_little/okqwx68/", "content": "If you're good at analyzing, sports betting" }, { "id": "t1_okr9qmh", "author": "/u/polyglotcodex", "updated": "2026-05-09T02:46:15+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t76mbu/what_are_some_realistic_ways_to_make_a_little/okr9qmh/", "content": "If anyone in the US, UK, CA, NZ is looking for a super simple side earning app, has honestly been one of the better survey apps I’ve tried.\n The concept is simple: you answer surveys and earn money depending on the survey length and topic. Some only take a few minutes, so it’s easy to do during breaks, while commuting, or just scrolling on your phone.\n It’s obviously not a full-time income or anything life-changing, but for small extra cash on the side, it’s been pretty decent for me. One thing I like is that the payout threshold is low compared to many other survey apps.\n Pros:\n quick and easy to use\n PayPal cashouts\n low minimum payout\n short surveys\n works on both Android and iPhone\n good for small side income during free time\n Cons:\n sometimes you get disqualified from surveys\n survey availability changes depending on the day\n some surveys fill up fast\n I’ve already cashed out multiple times without issues, so from my experience it’s legit.\n If anyone wants to try it, here’s my referral link:\n https://attapoll.app/join/bnvlr\n USE THIS CODE: BNVLR" }, { "id": "t1_oks4o68", "author": "/u/andrebuilds", "updated": "2026-05-09T06:46:22+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t76mbu/what_are_some_realistic_ways_to_make_a_little/oks4o68/", "content": "content clipping is the most realistic daily income option i know that actually scales. podcasters and youtubers need short clips every week and pay $30 to $100 per video. you set up a gig on fiverr, clip one video for free for a few creators and send it. recurring clients every week because they publish every week. i use tuboost.io to handle the actual clipping so it does not eat your whole day, AI finds the best moments, subtitles and vertical format done automatically. first client possible within a week if you move fast. what kind of content do you usually watch?" }, { "id": "t1_oksqc6z", "author": "/u/storicax", "updated": "2026-05-09T10:10:03+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t76mbu/what_are_some_realistic_ways_to_make_a_little/oksqc6z/", "content": "Can u teach me more? I usually watch podcast and gaming content" }, { "id": "t1_oks9dsw", "author": "/u/papa__jii", "updated": "2026-05-09T07:28:26+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t76mbu/what_are_some_realistic_ways_to_make_a_little/oks9dsw/", "content": "If you want realistic online side income, I’d look at Prolific, UserTesting, Clickworker, NaturallyFreeInc.com (sustainable marketplace for apparel, tech & home goods sellers), Demand Makers (sustainable manufacturing/fulfillment), and TaskMate for flexible online gigs and digital tasks — none are “get rich quick,” but they’re decent for small consistent online income." }, { "id": "t1_oksb3nn", "author": "/u/trainmindfully", "updated": "2026-05-09T07:44:25+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t76mbu/what_are_some_realistic_ways_to_make_a_little/oksb3nn/", "content": "Honestly the most realistic stuff is usually boring lol. surveys and reward apps pay tiny amounts unless you grind them hard, but things like simple freelance gigs, data entry, transcription, or editing short videos for ppl can actually stack up daily if you stay consistant. i also know people making decent side money just answering questions online or managing small social pages for local businesses. takes a little time to build up but way more sustainable than chasing “easy money” apps that promise crazy payouts." }, { "id": "t1_oky2qfe", "author": "/u/storicax", "updated": "2026-05-10T05:16:19+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t76mbu/what_are_some_realistic_ways_to_make_a_little/oky2qfe/", "content": "Thanks for advice" }, { "id": "t1_okseisy", "author": "/u/cleverplains816", "updated": "2026-05-09T08:16:04+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t76mbu/what_are_some_realistic_ways_to_make_a_little/okseisy/", "content": "Digital products and affiliate stuff can work, but the hard part is getting traffic in the first place." }, { "id": "t1_oksnp1s", "author": "/u/Radu-Ianis", "updated": "2026-05-09T09:46:43+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t76mbu/what_are_some_realistic_ways_to_make_a_little/oksnp1s/", "content": "Dm me I'll share some links" }, { "id": "t1_oksplvx", "author": "/u/storicax", "updated": "2026-05-09T10:03:40+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t76mbu/what_are_some_realistic_ways_to_make_a_little/oksplvx/", "content": "Done" }, { "id": "t1_okujpor", "author": "/u/FoundationOrganic748", "updated": "2026-05-09T16:41:19+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t76mbu/what_are_some_realistic_ways_to_make_a_little/okujpor/", "content": "A few realistic ones I’ve personally seen people use:\n\n- User testing websites (testing apps/websites and giving feedback)\n- AI data labeling / annotation jobs\n- Selling simple digital products\n- Writing on Reddit/Substack/X and slowly building an audience\n- Online surveys (small money, but immediate)\n- Freelance translation or editing if you know another language\n- Dividend investing eventually helps too, but that takes time and capital The important thing is consistency. Even making $5-$20 a day online can slowly compound into something meaningful over a few years.\n A lot of people underestimate how powerful small daily cash flow can become." }, { "id": "t1_okvhopw", "author": "/u/DepartmentWeak6863", "updated": "2026-05-09T19:35:04+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t76mbu/what_are_some_realistic_ways_to_make_a_little/okvhopw/", "content": "It’s a grind but I can make about little over $1 per hour taking surveys on “heycash” if you really grind it out taking a few breaks here and there. You can rack up $10 in a full day of survey taking. It can be challenging having you get kicked out of most surveys. But if you stick to the short surveys 8 mins and under and the surveys with 3.5 or more stars you have a higher chance of completing it." }, { "id": "t1_oky2ksa", "author": "/u/storicax", "updated": "2026-05-10T05:15:03+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t76mbu/what_are_some_realistic_ways_to_make_a_little/oky2ksa/", "content": "U have refferal link?" }, { "id": "t1_okw6l2j", "author": "/u/Interesting-Let-8891", "updated": "2026-05-09T21:52:40+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t76mbu/what_are_some_realistic_ways_to_make_a_little/okw6l2j/", "content": "Only fans" }, { "id": "t1_olxrqag", "author": "/u/Working_Orange_1231", "updated": "2026-05-15T12:25:01+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t76mbu/what_are_some_realistic_ways_to_make_a_little/olxrqag/", "content": "Haha...i'm not hot enough" }, { "id": "t1_okx9grl", "author": "/u/Strong-Trick-226", "updated": "2026-05-10T01:52:48+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t76mbu/what_are_some_realistic_ways_to_make_a_little/okx9grl/", "content": "Good content, Consistent engagement, Good marketing, good advertisement" }, { "id": "t1_oky8j2p", "author": "/u/Hot_Shirt_4990", "updated": "2026-05-10T06:05:37+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t76mbu/what_are_some_realistic_ways_to_make_a_little/oky8j2p/", "content": "Honestly I’d avoid anything promising “easy passive income” quickly because most of it either pays almost nothing or turns into content-farm hustle culture\n if your goal is just making a little money online consistently, the most realistic path is usually simple service-based work first. things like basic editing, writing, research, customer support, data cleanup, social media help, etc. not glamorous, but real\n also don’t underestimate how much easier it is to make your first $5 online doing something useful for someone else versus trying to build some perfect passive-income system immediately\n once you have even a tiny bit of momentum and confidence, it becomes way easier to experiment with bigger ideas later" }, { "id": "t1_okyixif", "author": "/u/ebonycocoagoddess", "updated": "2026-05-10T07:39:44+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t76mbu/what_are_some_realistic_ways_to_make_a_little/okyixif/", "content": "Have you tried looking at the blue pearl investing company?" }, { "id": "t1_okywkrk", "author": "", "updated": "2026-05-10T09:47:50+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t76mbu/what_are_some_realistic_ways_to_make_a_little/okywkrk/", "content": "[deleted]" }, { "id": "t1_olilb4e", "author": "/u/Godheadz", "updated": "2026-05-13T05:58:00+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t76mbu/what_are_some_realistic_ways_to_make_a_little/olilb4e/", "content": "Once I install, I only need to keep the app running and connected right?" }, { "id": "t1_okzy3fu", "author": "/u/RemarkableCover7462", "updated": "2026-05-10T14:05:00+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t76mbu/what_are_some_realistic_ways_to_make_a_little/okzy3fu/", "content": "Fap while breaking eggs over your head on livestream. Quickest money you’ll ever make" }, { "id": "t1_ol0ovng", "author": "/u/rewardio", "updated": "2026-05-10T16:17:59+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t76mbu/what_are_some_realistic_ways_to_make_a_little/ol0ovng/", "content": "Prolific for academic surveys, it gives a properly paid hourly rate, not the usual survey junk. Selling things you don't use on Vinted or eBay almost always pulls more than you'd guess. Cashback sites on anything you're already buying online, not exactly "earned" but same effect on your wallet. Microtasks on Clickworker if you've got dead time to fill.\n Anything promising big daily payouts for "easy tasks" is a scam. Realistic is small but consistent, and stacks up nicely if you run a few in parallel." }, { "id": "t1_ol2x7dy", "author": "/u/Peace-Blue-70", "updated": "2026-05-10T22:58:39+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t76mbu/what_are_some_realistic_ways_to_make_a_little/ol2x7dy/", "content": "Is there a platform to make money teaching/ tutoring students in reading/ writing in grades 1-3 … maybe 4?" }, { "id": "t1_ol3nat1", "author": "/u/duckVSfox", "updated": "2026-05-11T01:34:18+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t76mbu/what_are_some_realistic_ways_to_make_a_little/ol3nat1/", "content": "Install openclaw, use minimax m2 and ask it to make you 5 dollars." }, { "id": "t1_ol4qyc9", "author": "/u/No-Dirt9353", "updated": "2026-05-11T06:19:42+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t76mbu/what_are_some_realistic_ways_to_make_a_little/ol4qyc9/", "content": "Hello. Just heard from my relative that they are having a legit online hustle. I will update if I can prove it. Gonna update you after a month." }, { "id": "t1_olilwhe", "author": "/u/Godheadz", "updated": "2026-05-13T06:02:46+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t76mbu/what_are_some_realistic_ways_to_make_a_little/olilwhe/", "content": "Make that 2 weeks :)" }, { "id": "t1_ol557bz", "author": "/u/Playful-Dinner3011", "updated": "2026-05-11T08:26:23+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t76mbu/what_are_some_realistic_ways_to_make_a_little/ol557bz/", "content": "Bro try time bucks its a saffer money making method small amount of money" }, { "id": "t1_ol6q18g", "author": "/u/antixx247", "updated": "2026-05-11T14:34:45+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t76mbu/what_are_some_realistic_ways_to_make_a_little/ol6q18g/", "content": "get on solana and do some trading. start with dexscreener" }, { "id": "t1_ol75knu", "author": "/u/ADDY-GREY", "updated": "2026-05-11T15:45:20+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t76mbu/what_are_some_realistic_ways_to_make_a_little/ol75knu/", "content": "Im part of a free community you can join and it shows you a bunch of different ways to make money online. You can also make money from the community by referring others and if they upgrade inside to any products you earn a commission. If anyone’s interested I can DM you the info" }, { "id": "t1_ol80lyi", "author": "/u/Whatatexan", "updated": "2026-05-11T18:03:16+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t76mbu/what_are_some_realistic_ways_to_make_a_little/ol80lyi/", "content": "prolific for surveys is the most consistent daily earner, better quality studies than most sites. clickworker or amazon mturk for microtasks, mindless stuff you can do anytime. fiverr if you have any skill at all, even basic ones like writing or simple edits. selling stuff on ebay or facebook marketplace if you have things lying around. and honeygain is worth running in the background on your laptop or phone the whole time, shares unused bandwidth and just quietly adds up while you're doing everything else" }, { "id": "t1_ol92srf", "author": "/u/moreplateslessdates9", "updated": "2026-05-11T20:58:49+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t76mbu/what_are_some_realistic_ways_to_make_a_little/ol92srf/", "content": "The easier and lower barrier to entry something is the less its going to pay, people want to think lazy but then wind up spinning their wheels to make peanuts instead of putting in a little effort andmaking something more substantial. I make about $1400 a month selling tee shirts online and I spend maybe 3-4 hours a week tops but I do put in work, I know people spendng that much time dong surveys to make like $2 a day if that. If you're looking for something super lazy no commitment look at top class action lawsuits" }, { "id": "t1_olcgx8w", "author": "/u/ProfessionalBall8056", "updated": "2026-05-12T10:37:46+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t76mbu/what_are_some_realistic_ways_to_make_a_little/olcgx8w/", "content": "I have been using a tool for consultation. I just my link with people who wants to connect with me. As a single mom it's very hard to keep up everything." }, { "id": "t1_olio7vw", "author": "/u/Some-Blueberry-4145", "updated": "2026-05-13T06:21:39+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t76mbu/what_are_some_realistic_ways_to_make_a_little/olio7vw/", "content": "Im recently using paidwork now and its been really helpful with it im able to make money on my freetime, i really recommend it" }, { "id": "t1_oloe71o", "author": "/u/promptHD_", "updated": "2026-05-14T01:11:12+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t76mbu/what_are_some_realistic_ways_to_make_a_little/oloe71o/", "content": "[ Removed by Reddit ]" }, { "id": "t1_olpip0y", "author": "/u/Prestigious-Bath8022", "updated": "2026-05-14T05:32:01+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t76mbu/what_are_some_realistic_ways_to_make_a_little/olpip0y/", "content": "if you're okay with small amounts then focus on repeatable stuff instead of passive income videos. people oversell automation way too much. A decent combo is Prolific for studies plus one rewards app for downtime. KashKick seems more straightforward than the apps with weird coin conversion systems and random payout hoops. You're probably not replacing a paycheck but making enough for coffee or bills every week is realistic." }, { "id": "t1_olpit5v", "author": "/u/dhairyagoyal0001", "updated": "2026-05-14T05:32:58+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t76mbu/what_are_some_realistic_ways_to_make_a_little/olpit5v/", "content": "maybe do something part time" }, { "id": "t1_olr298s", "author": "/u/Sydney_girl_45", "updated": "2026-05-14T12:42:03+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t76mbu/what_are_some_realistic_ways_to_make_a_little/olr298s/", "content": "Most “easy online money” is either painfully low pay or straight-up scams. Best realistic option is learning one simple skill and selling it small at first — editing clips, thumbnails, basic design, data entry, social media posts, whatever gets you paid by real people instead of apps farming your time." }, { "id": "t1_olufacm", "author": "/u/Own_Equivalent7296", "updated": "2026-05-14T22:14:28+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t76mbu/what_are_some_realistic_ways_to_make_a_little/olufacm/", "content": "To be fair, I know it’s very controversial but even if you just start selling your feet you make good money off it after a week or 2 of grafting and promoting. It’s easy to do anonymously and if you don’t like your feet you can even put socks on! Or even sell ur hands or anything." }, { "id": "t1_olv4pin", "author": "/u/Doyouknowtna", "updated": "2026-05-15T00:40:51+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t76mbu/what_are_some_realistic_ways_to_make_a_little/olv4pin/", "content": "How can one start doing that ?" }, { "id": "t1_onfqyju", "author": "/u/Remarkable_Muffin714", "updated": "2026-05-23T14:46:46+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t76mbu/what_are_some_realistic_ways_to_make_a_little/onfqyju/", "content": "Kashkick! You have to GRIND but I made 80$ in like 2-3 weeks grinding" }, { "id": "t1_oomcra4", "author": "/u/Main-Tap-608", "updated": "2026-05-29T18:34:43+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t76mbu/what_are_some_realistic_ways_to_make_a_little/oomcra4/", "content": "[ Removed by Reddit ]" }, { "id": "t1_oko9273", "author": "/u/lucameiers", "updated": "2026-05-08T17:06:50+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t76mbu/what_are_some_realistic_ways_to_make_a_little/oko9273/", "content": "affiliate marketing or meaningless trading on forex, just making volumen and collecting rebate" }, { "id": "t1_okq6ul1", "author": "/u/storicax", "updated": "2026-05-08T22:48:31+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t76mbu/what_are_some_realistic_ways_to_make_a_little/okq6ul1/", "content": "I actually have some background in looking at charts and crypto trading, so I know exactly what you mean. But I’m trying to avoid risking capital or doing anything that requires upfront funds right now." }, { "id": "t1_oksa3lp", "author": "/u/lucameiers", "updated": "2026-05-09T07:35:07+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t76mbu/what_are_some_realistic_ways_to_make_a_little/oksa3lp/", "content": "OK. Then you can try affiliate marketing." }, { "id": "t1_okmmhuw", "author": "/u/my_peen_is_clean", "updated": "2026-05-08T12:37:00+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t76mbu/what_are_some_realistic_ways_to_make_a_little/okmmhuw/", "content": "try affiliate programs for good subscription software, share honest reviews on tiktok or reddit, recurring commissions stack, nail one good product its a very good living" }, { "id": "t1_okmns2w", "author": "/u/storicax", "updated": "2026-05-08T12:43:49+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t76mbu/what_are_some_realistic_ways_to_make_a_little/okmns2w/", "content": "Are you referring to any specific software? I see this exact comment posted everywhere." }, { "id": "t1_okn0d72", "author": "/u/og-crime-junkie", "updated": "2026-05-08T13:47:04+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t76mbu/what_are_some_realistic_ways_to_make_a_little/okn0d72/", "content": "This person spams every single post with that. Don’t bite." } ] }, { "source": "r/passive_income top month", "id": "t3_1tm1e0l", "title": "Why does everyone think that making YouTube, Twitch, Onlyfans, Re-selling, will make BIG bucks when it is all a LIE?", "author": "/u/ponygals", "updated": "2026-05-24T04:02:11+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tm1e0l/why_does_everyone_think_that_making_youtube/", "content": "I keep seeing posts and comments about people nowadays not wanting to work a regular 9-5 or have a career as a fire fighter, doctor, lawyer etc. Everyone wants to be a tiktoker, youtuber, etc. But I heard it isn't easy but yet there are "few" that make it BIG overnight and make millions of dollars. But yet then there are those who make stupid videos like prank videos, make up videos etc. And make BIG BUCKS. So what is the deal, can you make a living doing this type of stuff or not?\n submitted by /u/ponygals\n [link] [comments]", "contentHtml": "

I keep seeing posts and comments about people nowadays not wanting to work a regular 9-5 or have a career as a fire fighter, doctor, lawyer etc. Everyone wants to be a tiktoker, youtuber, etc. But I heard it isn't easy but yet there are "few" that make it BIG overnight and make millions of dollars. But yet then there are those who make stupid videos like prank videos, make up videos etc. And make BIG BUCKS. So what is the deal, can you make a living doing this type of stuff or not?

submitted by /u/ponygals
[link] [comments]", "comments": [ { "id": "t1_onjnh59", "author": "/u/AutoModerator", "updated": "2026-05-24T04:02:12+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tm1e0l/why_does_everyone_think_that_making_youtube/onjnh59/", "content": "Check out the Community Highlights for current and future Mod Vetted opportunities and Newsletter Episodes.\n Please do due diligence on any crypto opportunity. A simple google search could save you a fortune.\n I am a bot, and this action was performed automatically. Please contact the moderators of this subreddit if you have any questions or concerns." }, { "id": "t1_onjo2cd", "author": "/u/SocYS4", "updated": "2026-05-24T04:06:44+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tm1e0l/why_does_everyone_think_that_making_youtube/onjo2cd/", "content": "because all they see in their algorithms and feeds are the big names, they don't see the small content creators who work full time jobs because content creation pays little for them" }, { "id": "t1_onk6u7n", "author": "/u/ModBell", "updated": "2026-05-24T06:42:09+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tm1e0l/why_does_everyone_think_that_making_youtube/onk6u7n/", "content": "This is it. The 'average' OnlyFans creator makes something like $100 a month. But everyone things all they need to do is show a nipple slip and they'll be making $10k a month easy. Same with streamers sub-reddits flooded with folks asking why they're making $2 a day to the point most sub moderators delete the posts daily to keep the entire sub-reddit from basically being the same post over and over again." }, { "id": "t1_onkb7y2", "author": "/u/Feeling-Elk4188", "updated": "2026-05-24T07:20:10+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tm1e0l/why_does_everyone_think_that_making_youtube/onkb7y2/", "content": "Personally, getting your coochie out for $100 is my worst nightmare" }, { "id": "t1_onm2sxw", "author": "/u/Wolf-pack7", "updated": "2026-05-24T14:54:55+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tm1e0l/why_does_everyone_think_that_making_youtube/onm2sxw/", "content": "Ok, I promise I won’t 😀" }, { "id": "t1_onkj2zh", "author": "/u/Wolf-pack7", "updated": "2026-05-24T08:30:34+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tm1e0l/why_does_everyone_think_that_making_youtube/onkj2zh/", "content": "How is average calculated? Is that the mean in which case there will be a small percentage of very high earners and a lot of people that earn a lot less than 100 or is it the median where 50% will earn 100 or more and the rest less than 100. I suspect it could be the mean and so the vast majority will likely see less than 100 a month.\n It is the same for industries like acting and writing. People see the very small number of creatives who make a lot of money. The silent majority that earn nothing never become known to you because by definition they are not famous.\n With social media everyone is chasing the dream of what they see. In reality the people the same are likely a tiny tiny fraction of the people that have tried and made virtually nothing." }, { "id": "t1_ontlns4", "author": "/u/Low_Stress_9180", "updated": "2026-05-25T17:30:02+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tm1e0l/why_does_everyone_think_that_making_youtube/ontlns4/", "content": "99% make nothing" }, { "id": "t1_onmfywo", "author": "/u/KoreKhthonia", "updated": "2026-05-24T15:57:42+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tm1e0l/why_does_everyone_think_that_making_youtube/onmfywo/", "content": "OF also isn't a platform that, to my knowledge, really has much inbuilt discoverability for performers. You really have to straight up market yourself. (E.g., some post regularly to /r/gonewild and other NSFW type subreddits.)\n People think they just need to slap up a couple vids w a vibrator and rake in the $$$. Doesn't work that way, even if you're like, absolute pornstar 10/10 lookswise, w perfect tits and a perfect pussy.\n As w any kind of digital solopreneurship, the people who tend to do the best, are focused on a particular niche. With OF, this could be your body type (e.g. busty petite, tho I'm sure that's p saturated atp), cosplay sex, some kink or another, etc.\n In short -- sex work is work. It's a niche-based online side hustle like any other, not a shortcut to instant free money just for being hot." }, { "id": "t1_ono58b1", "author": "/u/ModBell", "updated": "2026-05-24T20:53:19+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tm1e0l/why_does_everyone_think_that_making_youtube/ono58b1/", "content": "A looooot of new creatprs dont get this. OF is 100% based on your external marketing following.\n I work in the field and I open pages on sites with internal markets and search first. OF after thousands of followers minimum on socials." }, { "id": "t1_onl7ctb", "author": "/u/workdreambig", "updated": "2026-05-24T11:55:18+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tm1e0l/why_does_everyone_think_that_making_youtube/onl7ctb/", "content": "This applies in most industries." }, { "id": "t1_onlxsru", "author": "/u/tmssmt", "updated": "2026-05-24T14:29:28+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tm1e0l/why_does_everyone_think_that_making_youtube/onlxsru/", "content": "Does the average onlyfans number limit scope to those who post regularly? Or does it include all users?\n The specific scope changes the argument tremendously" }, { "id": "t1_ono5fdi", "author": "/u/ModBell", "updated": "2026-05-24T20:54:18+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tm1e0l/why_does_everyone_think_that_making_youtube/ono5fdi/", "content": "Includes all. But not inactives that havent posted in 90 days (so probably 90% of created pages historically)." }, { "id": "t1_onocy0a", "author": "/u/tmssmt", "updated": "2026-05-24T21:33:23+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tm1e0l/why_does_everyone_think_that_making_youtube/onocy0a/", "content": "Yeah, I mean I'd love to see the numbers for accounts that post weekly, or who engage with people at least weekly. It stands to reason if you're not good about content or engagement...you don't make money" }, { "id": "t1_ontlhru", "author": "/u/Low_Stress_9180", "updated": "2026-05-25T17:29:14+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tm1e0l/why_does_everyone_think_that_making_youtube/ontlhru/", "content": "I guy I follow, an economist, says he makes 50 pence an hour (70 cents) but he loves doing it.\n 1% make money, rwst make 178 usd on average a month" }, { "id": "t1_onjoly4", "author": "", "updated": "2026-05-24T04:11:06+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tm1e0l/why_does_everyone_think_that_making_youtube/onjoly4/", "content": "[deleted]" }, { "id": "t1_onl69p8", "author": "/u/cozyPanda", "updated": "2026-05-24T11:47:42+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tm1e0l/why_does_everyone_think_that_making_youtube/onl69p8/", "content": "isn't it the same in every field? take for example, engineering. if you account for all engineers in the world you could also say that the bottom half earnings are not even close compared to the top half or even top 10%. And we consider 'engineering' as one of the noble professions." }, { "id": "t1_onszcxt", "author": "/u/tadaloveisreal", "updated": "2026-05-25T15:44:46+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tm1e0l/why_does_everyone_think_that_making_youtube/onszcxt/", "content": "Follow, lead, or what?\n Dunno, having leadership skills earns big. Industrial engineering grad here making negative cash.\n Mostly still ignorant of field or special perks all i got to see is people hating me for being smart and proving im not smart by stabbing me in the back. Yeah we're all human\n Engineering gotta stick w engineering as friends for sure. I didnt plan on going to college. Fit sorta w troublemakers but turns out most of them are crazy or idiots.\n Envy jealousy. Good lord even my dad a mechanic hates engineering and me fuck" }, { "id": "t1_onjr948", "author": "/u/nimitz34", "updated": "2026-05-24T04:31:51+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tm1e0l/why_does_everyone_think_that_making_youtube/onjr948/", "content": "Levi Strauss. Sold shovels and jeans to hopeful miners of the cali gold rush of 1849. That is 99% of the bullshit here." }, { "id": "t1_onjrnbv", "author": "/u/Swimming-Ad-6916", "updated": "2026-05-24T04:34:57+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tm1e0l/why_does_everyone_think_that_making_youtube/onjrnbv/", "content": "Most people see the success stories but not the thousands who barely make anything. For every big tiktoker making millions there's like 50,000 people grinding for pennies and getting burnt out after few months\n The algorithm is brutal and even if you get lucky once doesn't mean you can sustain it long term" }, { "id": "t1_onl8yr6", "author": "/u/Accomplished-City484", "updated": "2026-05-24T12:06:23+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tm1e0l/why_does_everyone_think_that_making_youtube/onl8yr6/", "content": "Yeah and I get people want to escape the rat race but working for YouTube or Instagram and simping for ads sounds like a worse rat race unless you’re making millions" }, { "id": "t1_only31b", "author": "/u/tmssmt", "updated": "2026-05-24T14:30:55+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tm1e0l/why_does_everyone_think_that_making_youtube/only31b/", "content": "Idk man, if you succeed you can make a lot of money for a lot less work than most people are doing today." }, { "id": "t1_onjrxf4", "author": "/u/brockclan216", "updated": "2026-05-24T04:37:11+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tm1e0l/why_does_everyone_think_that_making_youtube/onjrxf4/", "content": "This topic comes up around this time every year: People are tired of their toxic jobs, think they can become a content creator/drop shipper/real estate flipper/vanlifer/homesteader (name your niche here). I always am intrigued by the people who offer classes to teach how to make money doing stuff like this. I have found that the reason they are selling the class is because they aren't making a good enough living at doing what they doing and need to sell the classes to make ends meet. Ask them what their revenue is and you never get a straight answer it seems. Yes, there are some out there that are big earners with large followings but they have been around for years doing what they are doing and have a solid foundation of experience under their belt. I feel like you CAN make a go at it but it takes a lot of work, sometimes more than what they put into a traditional 9-5. If that work isn't your passion it won't be any different than working a traditional job, maybe harder. Most people don't want to put in that much work. Its possible but not easy." }, { "id": "t1_onk85dq", "author": "/u/AreteQueenofKeres", "updated": "2026-05-24T06:53:30+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tm1e0l/why_does_everyone_think_that_making_youtube/onk85dq/", "content": "I always am intrigued by the people who offer classes to teach how to make money doing stuff like this.\n Whenever a "success story" is selling books/classes/coaching on how YOU can break into the market, they're not successful. Nobody in an easy money, low effort, life is awesome job is going to hold your hand and teach you how to take that job away from them, especially on such a huge scale.\n That ebook is their income. The Zoom classes are their income. The coaching is their income.\n There's a world of difference between a content creator selling you their book on how to do something like home repair and a content creator selling you their book on how to make mad money doing content creation." }, { "id": "t1_onlaaxl", "author": "/u/brockclan216", "updated": "2026-05-24T12:15:14+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tm1e0l/why_does_everyone_think_that_making_youtube/onlaaxl/", "content": "Most I encounter are along the lines of "Take my class on how to become a successful drop shipper on Amazon". Me thinking they are wildly successful at what they do if they are teaching how they did it. But the moment I inquire about their own success/how much drop shipping has made for them and the question gets dodged most of the time. Now this is a vast difference between a person like this and someone has the receipts that they made serious money/success and they truly want to help others get there." }, { "id": "t1_onjo9rs", "author": "/u/NoleDjo", "updated": "2026-05-24T04:08:24+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tm1e0l/why_does_everyone_think_that_making_youtube/onjo9rs/", "content": "To just get views. There is nothing called truly passive income" }, { "id": "t1_onjsoj1", "author": "/u/brockclan216", "updated": "2026-05-24T04:43:06+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tm1e0l/why_does_everyone_think_that_making_youtube/onjsoj1/", "content": "Agreed. I saw a woman on YouTube in her 70's that just became accepted into partnership and began making money for her content due to one video that for some reason went viral. She made around $600 her first month and over $700 her second month. But even then there is work to put into it. She scripts the videos, edits them, posts them, creates thumbnails, and sets up the sites/products she videos about. Nothing passive about it. It takes time and work. The difference is she genuinely enjoys what she is doing." }, { "id": "t1_onk6wqy", "author": "/u/AreteQueenofKeres", "updated": "2026-05-24T06:42:47+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tm1e0l/why_does_everyone_think_that_making_youtube/onk6wqy/", "content": "The closest thing to actual passive income I've seen is investment/trading, but you have to have a decent bit of money to start AND if you want someone else to manage it for you, you have to be able to pay a trustworthy financial advisor." }, { "id": "t1_onjsg2m", "author": "/u/PNWlakeshow", "updated": "2026-05-24T04:41:15+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tm1e0l/why_does_everyone_think_that_making_youtube/onjsg2m/", "content": "I hear you about not making the BIG bucks right away, but we’ve started doing small content creation and it’s already netted a few brand deals that pay money and it wasn’t that difficult. We have two full paying jobs but as a small side hustle, it’s not the worst.\n We have a tiny following (less than 1k) but there are ways to make money doing content creation that don’t involve having 100k followers etc\n Just wanted to put another perspective out there" }, { "id": "t1_onkotu7", "author": "/u/ponygals", "updated": "2026-05-24T09:23:18+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tm1e0l/why_does_everyone_think_that_making_youtube/onkotu7/", "content": "What's a brand deal can you give me an example on how they pay you? I thought you get paid for making videos." }, { "id": "t1_onmm3eb", "author": "/u/PNWlakeshow", "updated": "2026-05-24T16:26:31+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tm1e0l/why_does_everyone_think_that_making_youtube/onmm3eb/", "content": "We have had several that reached out to us. Smaller companies within the outdoor, wine, food (packaged goods) and restaurants. They all paid cash and product in exchange for photos, videos, etc" }, { "id": "t1_onjtjeq", "author": "/u/workdreambig", "updated": "2026-05-24T04:49:57+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tm1e0l/why_does_everyone_think_that_making_youtube/onjtjeq/", "content": "There are people making good money using such platforms and plenty of others who try and fail. Just like there are many people who study to become doctors, lawyers, or dentists but don't actually make it. That's just how life is. Nothing is straight forward." }, { "id": "t1_onjv58g", "author": "/u/Fuj_apple", "updated": "2026-05-24T05:02:45+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tm1e0l/why_does_everyone_think_that_making_youtube/onjv58g/", "content": "Never hurts to try. Low cost of entry. In my experience, doing something is better than nothing." }, { "id": "t1_onjpfu4", "author": "/u/ImamTrump", "updated": "2026-05-24T04:17:39+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tm1e0l/why_does_everyone_think_that_making_youtube/onjpfu4/", "content": "It’s scale and having the ability to only show what you want. The compounding of views and online income beats any career any day. Even at 1% of the viewers purchasing your affiliate product can net amounts people work an entire year for.\n When you do the Math, it’s realistic. Especially depending on the niche.\n There’s no guarantee, but you can certainly plan for the future." }, { "id": "t1_onjr782", "author": "/u/IAteTonysLoMein", "updated": "2026-05-24T04:31:25+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tm1e0l/why_does_everyone_think_that_making_youtube/onjr782/", "content": ""even at 1%"...if you have millions of viewers. It's not any different than every kid in middle school aspiring to be a pro athlete. The odds are vanishingly low - for every big YouTuber, there are thousands on thousands racking up 200 views amongst their 500 followers" }, { "id": "t1_onjqkoc", "author": "/u/Maximum_Vegetable_MV", "updated": "2026-05-24T04:26:28+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tm1e0l/why_does_everyone_think_that_making_youtube/onjqkoc/", "content": "Because they are delusional." }, { "id": "t1_onjsv74", "author": "/u/brockclan216", "updated": "2026-05-24T04:44:34+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tm1e0l/why_does_everyone_think_that_making_youtube/onjsv74/", "content": "Its possible but they think it will be easy. It isn't. Any high earner has usually been around for a long time and has a solid following base." }, { "id": "t1_onk8n3z", "author": "/u/klas-klattermus", "updated": "2026-05-24T06:57:44+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tm1e0l/why_does_everyone_think_that_making_youtube/onk8n3z/", "content": "I mean some people are driven AND good at it. I have a young relative who makes millions from being an influencer and having her own brand (of actually excellent quality) woman stuff. But she often works longer than regular jobs. Meanwhile I also work both a job and a startup on the side and have several creative hobbies and I don't make shit! But then again I'm happy enough if I can just go out into the forest and pick mushrooms sometimes, no need for luxury cars" }, { "id": "t1_onjy1ao", "author": "/u/Western_Rhubarb_7959", "updated": "2026-05-24T05:26:35+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tm1e0l/why_does_everyone_think_that_making_youtube/onjy1ao/", "content": "Yes, you can make a living off of it but it's not as simple as recording you blabbing about nonsense in your bedroom.\n It takes a lot of work. A LOT, and it is not passive income.\n You need to be original, and interesting, or funny. Provide content 80,000 others aren't providing in a flooded market. And provide new and fresh content otherwise it's just a flash in the pan, and even if you do it will likely be like any normal TV show and have a shelf life.\n And you have to pump out content weekly, if not multiple times a week then upload it to Youtube, Tiktok, Facebook, Instagram, and anywhere else you can think of then put up with whatever bullshit the platform makes you do.\n Look up Nicole Coenen, the lesbian lumberjack. She has had some great, unique content for a couple years but its obvious her original shtick is getting old and she's trying other things. Her original shtick includes a lot of "Holy shit this woman is hawt" (viewer reaction, not anything she says, and she's ultra hawt) but that only goes so far.\n Olivia Tiederman is very similar with her cooking vids. She doesn't really do normal "this is how to cook this stuff," it's more a pretty face, flipping off the camera, and "complaining a little bit in New Yawk-ese."\n Then you have people like Tom the Seaworld Mime, who posts simple recordings of his truly hilarious antics while he does his day job. Great stuff, and while some of it gets a little old I think he can keep doing what he's doing for a while longer and still get clicks. After alll, he has a continual and free stream of characters (Seaworld customers) coming in and some of them are hilarious.\n Recently I've discovered vids from two guys that go by Hicks and Giggles that have wonderfully stupid dad jokes combined with sort of background idiocy that is retardedly hilarious.\n And also Harperthefox, who is a young woman that has taken the Weird Al parody approach to rude and bawdy levels that gives me belly laughs. She's not for everyone.\n --\n So, you can make a lot of money of TT, YT and FB, but like everything else in life nothing comes for free, you have to work at it.\n I hope you find you niche" }, { "id": "t1_onjyxc0", "author": "/u/Western_Rhubarb_7959", "updated": "2026-05-24T05:34:07+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tm1e0l/why_does_everyone_think_that_making_youtube/onjyxc0/", "content": "And I forgot to include the textbook flash in the plan, the Hawk Tuah girl. An internet one hit wonder.\n She made a boatload of money for that one, stupid, drunken, and hilarious video interview that was completely accidental on her part (I think) and went ultra-viral.\n And realize that I love that she made a pile of money off it, same as I love that others make a pile doing stupid internet videos. And awesome internet videos. I'm an old man about to retire in a handful of weeks after 30+ years in IT and it warms my heart that nerds like me have helped build this big ol' internet that allows ANYONE to make a living from their couch with little more than a laptop.\n Heck, I know a young (to me) guy that is making a living shooting and editing videos on an old iPhone he bought for something like $50. His name is Blake and he has a lot of hustle in him, which is what you need to have for this kind of venture." }, { "id": "t1_onk78iw", "author": "/u/No_Penalty3181", "updated": "2026-05-24T06:45:36+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tm1e0l/why_does_everyone_think_that_making_youtube/onk78iw/", "content": "Running social media isn’t just about having good ideas,it also requires constantly producing high-value content. It’s exhausting, and you can never predict what’s going to happen in the future." }, { "id": "t1_onju985", "author": "/u/Unique_Driver4434", "updated": "2026-05-24T04:55:40+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tm1e0l/why_does_everyone_think_that_making_youtube/onju985/", "content": ""Can you make a living doing this type of stuff"\n Yes, of course. Is it as easy as getting a job and getting paid right away?\n No, of course not. Since when has being an entrepreneur in ANY field been easy or something you can bet on as long as you're hardworking and consistent?\n Being an entrepreneur requires lots of hard work, creativity, rising above the masses to offer something few others can, etc. It's not easy, but it's definitely possible just like any other entrepreneur endeavor.\n Passive income isn't for idiots or your average person. It's for highly intelligent, highly motivated people. That's why not everybody can do it. Yes, some idiots still end up with it occasionally, but you can't expect it to have the same ease of getting paid as a regular job or anything even close to that for the average person.\n And I'm not getting into the whole debate of, "Well is it really passive income if you have to continually upload videos/content to get paid."\n That really depends. I had a website, for example, that I launched in 2012. It was a niche, a topic that nobody else was really talking about. I only wrote 10 articles on that site which took me about a half hour per article (1,000-word articles or so).\n That website, like some videos or channels on YouTube, took a while to get views, but because it was such a micro-niche nobody was talking about, it was like I struck gold.\n It slowly got traffic and then stayed at around 700-1,000 visitors a day to that one website with 10 articles on it. That made me $500 USD per month every single month for about 9 years, then it started dwindling down around 2022 or so as more competition came in and Google's algorithm started changing (prioritizing "authoritative" sites over mine, professional educational institution's sites over some guy who's writing about it from personal experience -you can forget about talking about education, medical, or other certain topics where Google/YouTube simply won't rank you over these institutions, doctors, etc. who they trust more)\n Normally, updating a website with new content is needed to keep traffic coming in. In my case, I didn't need to do that since I had low competition and people continued to link to my site (I got a lot of links from .edu sites because it was an education-related site, and links from .gov, .edu sites always help a webpage, website, or video rank much higher in search results.)\n Point is, while uploading videos constantly is normally needed to maintain rankings, lots of people are making passive income from videos they uploaded 10 years ago without any new updates needed.\n I have a video on YouTube with 6 million views on it that doesn't bring me the same money it did years ago (I got about 4 million views in the first few years, but then the video lost its first-page rankings with more competition, took many more years to get a few million more, but I still get paychecks every now and then from it even if much smaller.)" }, { "id": "t1_onjvqjb", "author": "/u/NachMitternacht", "updated": "2026-05-24T05:07:34+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tm1e0l/why_does_everyone_think_that_making_youtube/onjvqjb/", "content": "Because they see youtube 'celebrities' earning more than they will earn in a lifetime.\n All of that earned money comes as a yearly revenue for some silly content ... Like who doesnt want to do that and because it looks so easy... You basically got your question." }, { "id": "t1_onk9p12", "author": "/u/He_ofshadowsandtouch", "updated": "2026-05-24T07:06:49+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tm1e0l/why_does_everyone_think_that_making_youtube/onk9p12/", "content": "For most it takes years of grind to produce content and build a following.\n When I see people who essentially want a side hustle with very low effort ‘between laundry loads’, (a real example I saw this week), I like to remind them that no one is going to place money into your pocket unless there’s an exchange of value." }, { "id": "t1_onkd94u", "author": "/u/Fantastic_Judge1663", "updated": "2026-05-24T07:38:15+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tm1e0l/why_does_everyone_think_that_making_youtube/onkd94u/", "content": "Well actually it can be easy to make money on there (saying this from people I’ve known) but most people do not have the necessary „requirements“. What are the requirements? First, be as polarizing as possible (be as skinny, fat, rude… as possible, create drama whenever you can) because you need to be visible on the stage and create engagement. Second, be a narcissist or have at least strong narcissistic traits. This is a big one; you cannot do this kind of „job“ if you’re not totally convinced that everyone out there „needs“ to see and be constantly updated about you, your life, your feelings, your thoughts and possessions. I’m totally convinced that almost all successful influencers and content creators out there are full blown narcissists. Third, insta and TikTok are used to funnel people to money generating sites (affiliate links, Onlyfans, often Snapchat, telegram to sell „content“ privately). This is where the real money is made. Tbh I personally find it depressing and disturbing how many people spend their precious time to watch all that crap and finance said content creators / influencers." }, { "id": "t1_onl6o1l", "author": "/u/CherryRoutine9397", "updated": "2026-05-24T11:50:30+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tm1e0l/why_does_everyone_think_that_making_youtube/onl6o1l/", "content": "A lot of people only see the success stories. They'll see someone making £10000 a month on YouTube and assume it's normal, but they never see the thousands of channels getting 50 views and earning basically nothing. Same with trading, dropshipping and pretty much every online business. The winners are very visible. The people who quit after 3 months aren't. That's what makes it look easier than it actually is." }, { "id": "t1_onl73og", "author": "/u/ponygals", "updated": "2026-05-24T11:53:32+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tm1e0l/why_does_everyone_think_that_making_youtube/onl73og/", "content": "Yeah its tricky" }, { "id": "t1_onjvajb", "author": "/u/Suspicious_Skin_762", "updated": "2026-05-24T05:03:57+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tm1e0l/why_does_everyone_think_that_making_youtube/onjvajb/", "content": "I feel like a lot of people fell into the content creation pool because they see famous people doing it that claim they're making such big money at it. Plus they might know somebody who does videos and they say they make a good amount of money at it so they think it's easy. Also people don't want to work real jobs anymore because they don't see no real benefit to that. You can easily work for a company for 20 years have a career and then they would be the first to let you go if they need it to downsize. I also think covid played a nice part into it as well because a lot of people were home due to the fact that they weren't able to work so a lot of people got to work remotely and others that gave them an opportunity to really think about things that they wanted to really do and put their focus into that. Some people were able to turn that passion into a actual full time job." }, { "id": "t1_onkj6pk", "author": "/u/Ok-Neighborhood-566", "updated": "2026-05-24T08:31:31+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tm1e0l/why_does_everyone_think_that_making_youtube/onkj6pk/", "content": "YouTube is HARD. I tried. It's Fucking hard." }, { "id": "t1_onl4tjl", "author": "/u/haydenw86", "updated": "2026-05-24T11:37:11+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tm1e0l/why_does_everyone_think_that_making_youtube/onl4tjl/", "content": "For the most part, no. Often if you do, it will become a full time job which by definition is the opposite of passive income.\n Also ignore the people claiming they make money from faceless youtube channels that say DM me. They are looking to sell an overpriced AI generated “course”." }, { "id": "t1_onl87rz", "author": "/u/ponygals", "updated": "2026-05-24T12:01:17+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tm1e0l/why_does_everyone_think_that_making_youtube/onl87rz/", "content": "But I thought the whole faceless VTuber thing was a hot ticket and made millions haha. I've tried everything via YouTube the gaming, reaction, reviews, unboxing etc. Nothing. As far as other stuff no luck with either of those either." }, { "id": "t1_onlm1ng", "author": "/u/Henrik-Powers", "updated": "2026-05-24T13:26:36+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tm1e0l/why_does_everyone_think_that_making_youtube/onlm1ng/", "content": "It’s a long play, my first videos were around 2010 I think, first monetized around 2015/16? Was pulling in $400-500 a month at my peak, but only posted a couple each month. Now they require you to post shorts and so often to keep monetization active. It’s not hard but not a priority to me so I’ve had some breaks where my account isn’t active, still makes $80-200 a month depending on views. Have around 12K subs for those who care, evergreen diy niche. No I won’t share my channel" }, { "id": "t1_onmshfj", "author": "/u/lordofscottsdale", "updated": "2026-05-24T16:56:23+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tm1e0l/why_does_everyone_think_that_making_youtube/onmshfj/", "content": "Yes" }, { "id": "t1_onjripf", "author": "/u/MuramatsuCherry", "updated": "2026-05-24T04:33:57+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tm1e0l/why_does_everyone_think_that_making_youtube/onjripf/", "content": "I think it works if you have a team behind you. It's too hard for just one person to come up with the content, make the videos, know how to edit them, and then post on a schedule, and also have a Patreon (whole different platform and which can be really what makes the most money, if you can get a good enough following on whatever video platform you're working from).\n Reselling... it depends where you live, and if there are good sources to buy from to resell. It's obviously going to be more successful if you live in a city where wealthy people live, because they are always getting rid of their stuff, or old people who pass away because they have antique glassware, etc. or good quality furniture." }, { "id": "t1_onkanwg", "author": "/u/He_ofshadowsandtouch", "updated": "2026-05-24T07:15:19+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tm1e0l/why_does_everyone_think_that_making_youtube/onkanwg/", "content": "You don’t need a team, my son started making vids 7 yrs ago, and slowly built a base, he gets about £500 per month in monetisation revenue, no patreon or product sponsorship.\n I suppose if it really took off he might want some help, you can for example pay people in places like Romania to do all the editing for £100 a vid (my mate does this)." }, { "id": "t1_onjsi7a", "author": "/u/Visual-Sector6642", "updated": "2026-05-24T04:41:43+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tm1e0l/why_does_everyone_think_that_making_youtube/onjsi7a/", "content": "I heard that most of these guys make maybe 140 bucks a month" }, { "id": "t1_onk5ieh", "author": "/u/NNakedLunchDate", "updated": "2026-05-24T06:30:37+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tm1e0l/why_does_everyone_think_that_making_youtube/onk5ieh/", "content": "A: because of this sub" }, { "id": "t1_onk7sm9", "author": "/u/Lime89", "updated": "2026-05-24T06:50:26+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tm1e0l/why_does_everyone_think_that_making_youtube/onk7sm9/", "content": "You can add Etsy to that list too" }, { "id": "t1_onkpb03", "author": "/u/ponygals", "updated": "2026-05-24T09:27:46+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tm1e0l/why_does_everyone_think_that_making_youtube/onkpb03/", "content": "Oh I see." }, { "id": "t1_onl5fzd", "author": "/u/Accomplished-City484", "updated": "2026-05-24T11:41:48+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tm1e0l/why_does_everyone_think_that_making_youtube/onl5fzd/", "content": "If you can make millions a year sure sounds good, but most people are only making double or single digits cash per video. There was this one lady having a crash out because she had to post videos of her lizard every day to pay rent and she was so sick of it and her house stinks of lizard piss" }, { "id": "t1_onl6f4q", "author": "/u/LaVida2", "updated": "2026-05-24T11:48:46+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tm1e0l/why_does_everyone_think_that_making_youtube/onl6f4q/", "content": "I have been reselling on eBay for well over 10 yrs. I sell stuff my mother or I no longer want/need and I feel it may be “valuable” to someone else.\n I am not a mega seller and I usually try to make sure my listings stay at/above 100 items, but that’s difficult when stuff constantly sells and you practically have to list daily to keep your listings over a certain amount.\n Personally, I don’t have time for that. I have an actual FT job that I like and it pays well, so reselling is more of a way to give someone else a chance to enjoy an item I no longer want/need. It’s gas money or maybe an extra $100/month to dick around with." }, { "id": "t1_onldg1s", "author": "/u/Low_Stress_9180", "updated": "2026-05-24T12:35:37+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tm1e0l/why_does_everyone_think_that_making_youtube/onldg1s/", "content": "Liars will lie. And many desperate people now as times are hard so many opportunities to cheat people." }, { "id": "t1_onlg72b", "author": "/u/Top-Statistician61", "updated": "2026-05-24T12:52:39+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tm1e0l/why_does_everyone_think_that_making_youtube/onlg72b/", "content": "I started as a reseller. You do NOT make big bucks overnight. It’s a lot of work snd as everything takes time to scale. There is no get rich quick scheme. Just hard work." }, { "id": "t1_onlj4v6", "author": "/u/Callec254", "updated": "2026-05-24T13:09:57+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tm1e0l/why_does_everyone_think_that_making_youtube/onlj4v6/", "content": "Because it could happen.... It does happen, for a few. It's just not very likely." }, { "id": "t1_onltik1", "author": "/u/Usual-Language-745", "updated": "2026-05-24T14:07:20+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tm1e0l/why_does_everyone_think_that_making_youtube/onltik1/", "content": "The same reason every kid playing pee wee soccer thinks they are going to be in the World Cup." }, { "id": "t1_onm57ou", "author": "/u/BarnBuiltBeaters", "updated": "2026-05-24T15:06:59+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tm1e0l/why_does_everyone_think_that_making_youtube/onm57ou/", "content": "I was monetized on Youtube, though ive gone long enough without posting I no longer am. I never posted frequently due to the length of projects I filmed. I was making an average $0.50/day though had no new uploads. I believe this is linear though so if I double my viewership my earnings double. Looking at my viewership/subs it looked like it was exponential so it has the potential to grow quickly, though starting out it takes forever.\n Its not a lie but takes a lot of consistency and its more work than people realize ontop of a full time job." }, { "id": "t1_onm7wjo", "author": "/u/helmetdeep805", "updated": "2026-05-24T15:20:06+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tm1e0l/why_does_everyone_think_that_making_youtube/onm7wjo/", "content": "Farts in a jar ,big $ in the flavored stuff.! Check out the reality tv star who became a millionaire selling farts in a jar.!" }, { "id": "t1_onn0ry7", "author": "/u/ponygals", "updated": "2026-05-24T17:34:08+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tm1e0l/why_does_everyone_think_that_making_youtube/onn0ry7/", "content": "Ha fake right?" }, { "id": "t1_onpz0uw", "author": "/u/helmetdeep805", "updated": "2026-05-25T03:17:33+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tm1e0l/why_does_everyone_think_that_making_youtube/onpz0uw/", "content": "Farts in a jar ,big $ in the flavored stuff.! Check out the reality tv star who became a millionaire selling farts in a jar.! No look it up,it’s real she became a millionaire off ot" }, { "id": "t1_onn8py4", "author": "/u/darkbug3", "updated": "2026-05-24T18:11:31+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tm1e0l/why_does_everyone_think_that_making_youtube/onn8py4/", "content": "because they sell courses, they dont believe anything" }, { "id": "t1_onnrt9o", "author": "/u/Sad-Statement3597", "updated": "2026-05-24T19:46:09+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tm1e0l/why_does_everyone_think_that_making_youtube/onnrt9o/", "content": "Without that glimmer of hope(however much nigh infinitesimale) , the mind starts to think of actually revolutionary ideas and we shant have that" }, { "id": "t1_onnt3mw", "author": "/u/Constant_Industry472", "updated": "2026-05-24T19:52:39+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tm1e0l/why_does_everyone_think_that_making_youtube/onnt3mw/", "content": "Well if you buy the course from the guy driving a Lamborghini he clearly states he will show you how to become fabulously wealthy by becoming his direct competitor." }, { "id": "t1_onnzh3r", "author": "/u/DistributionSad5122", "updated": "2026-05-24T20:24:27+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tm1e0l/why_does_everyone_think_that_making_youtube/onnzh3r/", "content": "But some know that making them it's not easy.\n It's about creating some automations on side hustles, just like i did: a web tool that scans every 5 minutes the FB marketplace, Fb groups, Ebay and Craiglist simultaneously for BEST DEALS. And Big Bucks will come!" }, { "id": "t1_ono6qiw", "author": "/u/old--oak", "updated": "2026-05-24T21:00:56+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tm1e0l/why_does_everyone_think_that_making_youtube/ono6qiw/", "content": "For everyone making a million there is a million making nothing" }, { "id": "t1_onp5wxw", "author": "/u/largos7289", "updated": "2026-05-25T00:20:55+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tm1e0l/why_does_everyone_think_that_making_youtube/onp5wxw/", "content": "Way back probably, but it's you, have to one up the big names and honestly... do you really want to be the internet ahole? Then it eventually becomes you and you can't separate the youtube you vs the real you." }, { "id": "t1_onpg87h", "author": "/u/Ill_Emu8833", "updated": "2026-05-25T01:21:44+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tm1e0l/why_does_everyone_think_that_making_youtube/onpg87h/", "content": "We live in a generation of people that can’t focus" }, { "id": "t1_onpw67k", "author": "/u/ThunderStruck777", "updated": "2026-05-25T02:59:09+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tm1e0l/why_does_everyone_think_that_making_youtube/onpw67k/", "content": "You ain’t flipping smelly ass thrift clothes nothing there anymore worth selling. That jadeite dish no one wants it. The Nike sneakers. Fake. Bags. Fake. You can go ahead and quit your job if you want but you’ll be broke in a few months. The ones that got in on early. They know it’s done. They are just addicted to it. They need it like a drug. And like addicts will leave you broke and alone" }, { "id": "t1_onqxken", "author": "/u/Purinto", "updated": "2026-05-25T07:48:07+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tm1e0l/why_does_everyone_think_that_making_youtube/onqxken/", "content": "All of these follow the pareto principle : roughly 4% of the people make about 64% of all the money.\n As in everything, pursuing a business comes with it's share of risk. Here you're more likely to make negative returns on investments than positive ones if you do not do your due dilligences." }, { "id": "t1_onrys1e", "author": "/u/The-Oldest-Dream1", "updated": "2026-05-25T12:38:23+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tm1e0l/why_does_everyone_think_that_making_youtube/onrys1e/", "content": "Socialmedia relies on a lot of luck which they don't talk about. Ofcourse it never hurts to try if you feel you can actually provide people with value. It requires next to nothing to to create an account afterall" }, { "id": "t1_onto3rf", "author": "/u/jay_0804", "updated": "2026-05-25T17:41:27+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tm1e0l/why_does_everyone_think_that_making_youtube/onto3rf/", "content": "Honestly both things are true at the same time.\n Yes, a tiny percentage of creators make absurd money. But survivorship bias is crazy online because you only see the winners. You don’t see the 500k people uploading videos to 37 views after work every night.\n What people underestimate is content creation is basically a business now. Editing, scripting, thumbnails, analytics, sponsors, community management, consistency. The “easy money” image is mostly marketing.\n That said, some people absolutely can make a living from it. Usually the ones treating it like a long-term skill instead of a lottery ticket. Most “overnight successes” were grinding quietly for years before anyone noticed lol." }, { "id": "t1_onlctk1", "author": "/u/emilykaldwin91", "updated": "2026-05-24T12:31:37+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tm1e0l/why_does_everyone_think_that_making_youtube/onlctk1/", "content": "You can make a living from it, but social media is basically like trying to become a pro athlete or famous actor now.\n A tiny percentage make insane money, while most people either make very little or burn out chasing views.\n The reason it looks easy is because you only see the winners, not the millions posting daily for years with no success." }, { "id": "t1_onl5md2", "author": "/u/ttv_vegan_chef", "updated": "2026-05-24T11:43:03+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tm1e0l/why_does_everyone_think_that_making_youtube/onl5md2/", "content": "It’s not a lie. Doing 220k/month reselling on TikTok" }, { "id": "t1_onm59ax", "author": "/u/Q_Money92", "updated": "2026-05-24T15:07:12+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tm1e0l/why_does_everyone_think_that_making_youtube/onm59ax/", "content": "What do you resell?" }, { "id": "t1_onmf46i", "author": "/u/ttv_vegan_chef", "updated": "2026-05-24T15:53:42+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tm1e0l/why_does_everyone_think_that_making_youtube/onmf46i/", "content": "Pokémon" }, { "id": "t1_onn1zii", "author": "/u/og-crime-junkie", "updated": "2026-05-24T17:39:45+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tm1e0l/why_does_everyone_think_that_making_youtube/onn1zii/", "content": "Scammer." }, { "id": "t1_onp5mm0", "author": "/u/ttv_vegan_chef", "updated": "2026-05-25T00:19:10+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tm1e0l/why_does_everyone_think_that_making_youtube/onp5mm0/", "content": "Definitely legit" }, { "id": "t1_onm75q3", "author": "/u/og-crime-junkie", "updated": "2026-05-24T15:16:30+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tm1e0l/why_does_everyone_think_that_making_youtube/onm75q3/", "content": "Lies." }, { "id": "t1_onmf312", "author": "/u/ttv_vegan_chef", "updated": "2026-05-24T15:53:33+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tm1e0l/why_does_everyone_think_that_making_youtube/onmf312/", "content": "https://preview.redd.it/6r3u592ix33h1.jpeg?width=1290&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=71d213748492db003ef53a4bfb23eeca677c02da" } ] }, { "source": "r/passive_income top month", "id": "t3_1tetyow", "title": "Free tools I use to make money online — complete list, nothing to buy", "author": "/u/angaine", "updated": "2026-05-16T13:38:38+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tetyow/free_tools_i_use_to_make_money_online_complete/", "content": "People always ask what tools I use. Here's the full list — every single one is free:\n **For creating products:**\n - Canva — design anything (templates, ebooks, social posts)\n - Google Docs — write ebooks, guides, contracts\n - OBS Studio — record screen/video for courses\n **For selling:**\n - Gumroad — sell digital products, takes a small cut, no upfront cost\n - Stan Store — link-in-bio store, free plan available\n - Payhip — another solid Gumroad alternative\n **For traffic (free):**\n - Pinterest — underrated for driving traffic to digital products\n - Reddit (meta, I know) — genuine value posts drive real traffic\n - Medium — write articles, link back to your products\n **For managing money:**\n - Wave — free accounting software for small businesses\n - PayPal / Wise — receive international payments\n **For learning:**\n - YouTube — seriously, better than most paid courses\n - Andrew Huberman on productivity (free podcast)\n Save this post — you don't need to spend a dollar to start.\n submitted by /u/angaine\n [link] [comments]", "contentHtml": "

People always ask what tools I use. Here's the full list — every single one is free:

**For creating products:**

- Canva — design anything (templates, ebooks, social posts)

- Google Docs — write ebooks, guides, contracts

- OBS Studio — record screen/video for courses

**For selling:**

- Gumroad — sell digital products, takes a small cut, no upfront cost

- Stan Store — link-in-bio store, free plan available

- Payhip — another solid Gumroad alternative

**For traffic (free):**

- Pinterest — underrated for driving traffic to digital products

- Reddit (meta, I know) — genuine value posts drive real traffic

- Medium — write articles, link back to your products

**For managing money:**

- Wave — free accounting software for small businesses

- PayPal / Wise — receive international payments

**For learning:**

- YouTube — seriously, better than most paid courses

- Andrew Huberman on productivity (free podcast)

Save this post — you don't need to spend a dollar to start.

submitted by /u/angaine
[link] [comments]", "comments": [ { "id": "t1_om4oxiq", "author": "/u/AutoModerator", "updated": "2026-05-16T13:38:38+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tetyow/free_tools_i_use_to_make_money_online_complete/om4oxiq/", "content": "Check out the Community Highlights for current and future Mod Vetted opportunities and Newsletter Episodes.\n Please do due diligence on any crypto opportunity. A simple google search could save you a fortune.\n I am a bot, and this action was performed automatically. Please contact the moderators of this subreddit if you have any questions or concerns." }, { "id": "t1_omc1hel", "author": "/u/Grand-Vision", "updated": "2026-05-17T16:48:59+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tetyow/free_tools_i_use_to_make_money_online_complete/omc1hel/", "content": "Good list. A few additions that changed my passive income operation:\n n8n (self-hosted, free): automates the delivery and follow-up layer. When someone buys on Gumroad it triggers a welcome email sequence, adds them to a tag in your email tool, and updates a tracking sheet. Replaces most of what you would otherwise pay Zapier for.\n Beehiiv (free tier): if you are building an audience alongside products, the free tier is more capable than most alternatives. Newsletter becomes the primary channel with product links inside it.\n Kit (formerly ConvertKit) free tier: email sequences tied to lead magnets, covers up to 10,000 subscribers which is more than enough to start.\n The compounding pattern: Canva or Google Docs to create the product, Gumroad to sell it, a lead magnet on Beehiiv or Kit to build the audience, n8n to automate delivery and follow-up. Entirely free until you are generating enough to justify paid tiers." }, { "id": "t1_om72x7r", "author": "/u/Exact_Presentation79", "updated": "2026-05-16T21:01:11+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tetyow/free_tools_i_use_to_make_money_online_complete/om72x7r/", "content": "How do you use Pinterest to drive traffic? Create pins leading to your own products?" }, { "id": "t1_om7jmk3", "author": "/u/No-Attitude-6315", "updated": "2026-05-16T22:35:54+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tetyow/free_tools_i_use_to_make_money_online_complete/om7jmk3/", "content": "Yes" }, { "id": "t1_om8md87", "author": "/u/onceIwas15", "updated": "2026-05-17T02:37:20+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tetyow/free_tools_i_use_to_make_money_online_complete/om8md87/", "content": "Apparently the old way was 80% other peoples pins and 20% yours. The modern way is 40-70 your own and 60-30 others." }, { "id": "t1_om6s81r", "author": "/u/Kindly-Ad-4472", "updated": "2026-05-16T20:04:19+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tetyow/free_tools_i_use_to_make_money_online_complete/om6s81r/", "content": "Great" }, { "id": "t1_om8c9pv", "author": "/u/ProgramNo456", "updated": "2026-05-17T01:32:09+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tetyow/free_tools_i_use_to_make_money_online_complete/om8c9pv/", "content": "Great job" }, { "id": "t1_om73fh9", "author": "/u/GoneAWOL1", "updated": "2026-05-16T21:03:57+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tetyow/free_tools_i_use_to_make_money_online_complete/om73fh9/", "content": "Nice one, thanks for sharing" }, { "id": "t1_om7jjmt", "author": "/u/arnstarr", "updated": "2026-05-16T22:35:25+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tetyow/free_tools_i_use_to_make_money_online_complete/om7jjmt/", "content": "Wave is gone" }, { "id": "t1_om9ajml", "author": "/u/Tech-Life-2406", "updated": "2026-05-17T05:37:02+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tetyow/free_tools_i_use_to_make_money_online_complete/om9ajml/", "content": "Thanks ❤️" }, { "id": "t1_omr0y33", "author": "/u/Sea_sociate", "updated": "2026-05-19T21:34:46+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tetyow/free_tools_i_use_to_make_money_online_complete/omr0y33/", "content": "Good post, imma save it" }, { "id": "t1_omu415l", "author": "/u/ClunkyTomatoId539", "updated": "2026-05-20T10:01:33+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tetyow/free_tools_i_use_to_make_money_online_complete/omu415l/", "content": "[ Removed by Reddit ]" }, { "id": "t1_one9m1x", "author": "/u/Michael4094", "updated": "2026-05-23T08:31:28+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tetyow/free_tools_i_use_to_make_money_online_complete/one9m1x/", "content": "but what can you actually sell? what products can someone create that can be sold online? other than tools, websites and apps for which there are many freelancers already, I am genuinely curious" }, { "id": "t1_oo2jx6i", "author": "/u/TraditionalThing3206", "updated": "2026-05-26T23:38:35+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tetyow/free_tools_i_use_to_make_money_online_complete/oo2jx6i/", "content": "[ Removed by Reddit ]" }, { "id": "t1_om6g740", "author": "/u/lolo-hlubi1907", "updated": "2026-05-16T19:00:46+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tetyow/free_tools_i_use_to_make_money_online_complete/om6g740/", "content": "Thank you for sharing" }, { "id": "t1_om5hjgb", "author": "/u/HeavyStudent3193", "updated": "2026-05-16T16:05:13+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tetyow/free_tools_i_use_to_make_money_online_complete/om5hjgb/", "content": "Honestly, one of the biggest mindset shifts for people trying to make money online is realizing that lack of tools is usually not the bottleneck anymore.\n In 2026, the barrier to entry for creating digital products, content, websites, designs, videos, and even software is insanely low compared to a few years ago. The harder problems now are usually:\n consistency,\n distribution,\n trust,\n taste,\n positioning,\n and sticking with something long enough for compounding to happen.\n You can see this reflected across builder communities like Runable too — thousands of people can now technically build things, but far fewer can consistently attract attention, solve painful problems, or create something people continue caring about after the initial novelty fades." }, { "id": "t1_om7602d", "author": "/u/Downtown-Rate-9404", "updated": "2026-05-16T21:18:04+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tetyow/free_tools_i_use_to_make_money_online_complete/om7602d/", "content": "Ai slop" } ] }, { "source": "r/passive_income top month", "id": "t3_1tr0kk4", "title": "Being forced to choose between a $350 monthly loss or \"price-gouging\" low-income night workers on my vending route.", "author": "/u/Weyland_Utan", "updated": "2026-05-29T12:37:46+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tr0kk4/being_forced_to_choose_between_a_350_monthly_loss/", "content": "My passive vending machine side hustle was supposed to be easy cash, but now I’m being called a greedy capitalist for trying to break even on bottled water.\n Last year, I spent $4,200 to purchase and place two high-quality vending machines. One of them is in the breakroom of a 24-hour manufaturing facility that employs mostly low-wage night-shift workers.\n With inflation, my distributer prices for snacks and drinks shot up by 35% over the winter. To maintain a tiny profit margin and cover my fuel costs for restocking, I had to raise the price of a bottle of water to $2.75 and snacks to $2.50.\n Yesterday, the facility's night shift supervisor confronted me while I was restocking. He was incredbly hostile. He told me the workers rely on my machines because the cafeteria closes at 6 PM, and they are essentially forced to buy from me. He said charging $2.75 for water is predatory.\n He demanded I lower the water price to $1.25 and snacks to $1.50. If I do that, after paying the facility's 10% commission and my stocking costs, I will literally be operating at a loss of about $350 a month.\n If I refuse, he threatened to talk to corporate to have my contract terminated, which means I’ll lose the location and have to pay $500 to move the machines.\n I feel terrible because I know these workers are struggling, but I am not a charity. I am trying to build a passive stream to support my own family.\n Should I take the financial hit to keep the peace, or just pull the machines and look for a new spot? How do you guys handle the ethics of pricing in low-income venues?\n submitted by /u/Weyland_Utan\n [link] [comments]", "contentHtml": "

My passive vending machine side hustle was supposed to be easy cash, but now I’m being called a greedy capitalist for trying to break even on bottled water.

Last year, I spent $4,200 to purchase and place two high-quality vending machines. One of them is in the breakroom of a 24-hour manufaturing facility that employs mostly low-wage night-shift workers.

With inflation, my distributer prices for snacks and drinks shot up by 35% over the winter. To maintain a tiny profit margin and cover my fuel costs for restocking, I had to raise the price of a bottle of water to $2.75 and snacks to $2.50.

Yesterday, the facility's night shift supervisor confronted me while I was restocking. He was incredbly hostile. He told me the workers rely on my machines because the cafeteria closes at 6 PM, and they are essentially forced to buy from me. He said charging $2.75 for water is predatory.

He demanded I lower the water price to $1.25 and snacks to $1.50. If I do that, after paying the facility's 10% commission and my stocking costs, I will literally be operating at a loss of about $350 a month.

If I refuse, he threatened to talk to corporate to have my contract terminated, which means I’ll lose the location and have to pay $500 to move the machines.

I feel terrible because I know these workers are struggling, but I am not a charity. I am trying to build a passive stream to support my own family.

Should I take the financial hit to keep the peace, or just pull the machines and look for a new spot? How do you guys handle the ethics of pricing in low-income venues?

submitted by /u/Weyland_Utan
[link] [comments]", "comments": [ { "id": "t1_ook5p3d", "author": "/u/AutoModerator", "updated": "2026-05-29T12:37:46+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tr0kk4/being_forced_to_choose_between_a_350_monthly_loss/ook5p3d/", "content": "Check out the Community Highlights for current and future Mod Vetted opportunities and Newsletter Episodes.\n Please do due diligence on any crypto opportunity. A simple google search could save you a fortune.\n I am a bot, and this action was performed automatically. Please contact the moderators of this subreddit if you have any questions or concerns." }, { "id": "t1_ookblca", "author": "/u/guidedone13212", "updated": "2026-05-29T13:08:22+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tr0kk4/being_forced_to_choose_between_a_350_monthly_loss/ookblca/", "content": "Corporate charging you commission which will be passed down to their workers is wild.....\n Where I work subsidizes the vending machines paying 25% cogs..... Just wow." }, { "id": "t1_oolazml", "author": "/u/Accountabilityta2024", "updated": "2026-05-29T15:50:13+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tr0kk4/being_forced_to_choose_between_a_350_monthly_loss/oolazml/", "content": "Just suggest this to the supervisor" }, { "id": "t1_oolycsf", "author": "/u/Re_Thought", "updated": "2026-05-29T17:31:46+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tr0kk4/being_forced_to_choose_between_a_350_monthly_loss/oolycsf/", "content": "Perhaps it's my years of retail, but the only thing I find surprising is corporate has Not cut out the middle man and sold directly to the employees for a higher profit margin. Guess they don't want to make salaried management refills the machines." }, { "id": "t1_ooqj9uo", "author": "/u/thecuntpeddler", "updated": "2026-05-30T10:18:34+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tr0kk4/being_forced_to_choose_between_a_350_monthly_loss/ooqj9uo/", "content": "They’d need someone more technical, and in flow." }, { "id": "t1_ooqv88y", "author": "/u/StelioKontossidekick", "updated": "2026-05-30T11:48:31+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tr0kk4/being_forced_to_choose_between_a_350_monthly_loss/ooqv88y/", "content": "Someone else to blame as well. ....These machines suck, yeah we know, its that idiot vendor...." }, { "id": "t1_oosztop", "author": "/u/Re_Thought", "updated": "2026-05-30T18:24:00+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tr0kk4/being_forced_to_choose_between_a_350_monthly_loss/oosztop/", "content": "They can always lie, normal practice is retail or warehouse environments. I've had management from different corpos lie about serious issues (safety hazards) to incredibly mundane stuff (why we stopped getting clean mop heads).\n Always blaming a 3rd party or corporate, when in fact it was oftentimes their own lack of actions that were the reason." }, { "id": "t1_oow68ga", "author": "/u/Pitiful-Recover-3747", "updated": "2026-05-31T05:37:05+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tr0kk4/being_forced_to_choose_between_a_350_monthly_loss/oow68ga/", "content": "The mundane lies are usually just ignorance and filling that ignorant void with noise rather than say the words “I’m not sure, I’d have to get back to you.” Which coincidentally when you’re cleaning up after some toxic or incompetent management team is probably one of the most productive phrases you’ll use provided you do in fact get back to people…" }, { "id": "t1_oow5y4n", "author": "/u/Pitiful-Recover-3747", "updated": "2026-05-31T05:34:43+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tr0kk4/being_forced_to_choose_between_a_350_monthly_loss/oow5y4n/", "content": "They don’t want to drop the cap ex on the vending machine. Company I worked at picked a vendor and they paid us $200 per machine per month , at each retail location PLUS 3% of gross receipts and the 3% was wired weekly. One of the clauses that would trigger a renegotiation of the rates was if our company ever moved from a 30 minute to 1 hour lunch break. That means the vending company KNEW our employees were meal hostages lol. I was equal parts disgusted and impressed" }, { "id": "t1_oow5hi6", "author": "/u/Pitiful-Recover-3747", "updated": "2026-05-31T05:30:55+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tr0kk4/being_forced_to_choose_between_a_350_monthly_loss/oow5hi6/", "content": "I worked for a company who’s CEO had a competitive bid out to see which vending company would give us the best deal on us leasing them space. The one he ultimately went with wasn’t paying the highest base rent, but we were entitled to 3% of weekly gross sales and it was wired automatically to us. He liked that cash flow. So 3% of every minimum wage employees snicker bar in lieu of a lunch break long enough to leave the building and come back with food and eat it got zapped right to a buildings revenue account." }, { "id": "t1_ook6s2x", "author": "/u/whynotthebest", "updated": "2026-05-29T12:43:34+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tr0kk4/being_forced_to_choose_between_a_350_monthly_loss/ook6s2x/", "content": "Are you asking if you should do passive charity?\n Price the goods to whatever you need for this business to make sense." }, { "id": "t1_ookal2i", "author": "/u/Weyland_Utan", "updated": "2026-05-29T13:03:15+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tr0kk4/being_forced_to_choose_between_a_350_monthly_loss/ookal2i/", "content": "That is my logic too, but the threat of getting kicked out makes it tricky. If corporate actually listens to him paying $500 to move the machines plus finding a new spot will really hurt my budget. I just hate the hostility from that supervisor." }, { "id": "t1_ookbxga", "author": "/u/whynotthebest", "updated": "2026-05-29T13:10:03+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tr0kk4/being_forced_to_choose_between_a_350_monthly_loss/ookbxga/", "content": "Won't hurt your budget more than losing $350 a month will.\n They don't have a better alternative than you, because the next vending guy isn't going to operate at a loss, either. Prices are what they are.\n You are offering a convenience and luxury to people who don't want to bring an alternative choice from home. You can charge whatever you want. It's not your job to feed people.\n "I understand your concern, but this is the minimum I can price things at. I understand if this means some people will need to bring food and water from home."" }, { "id": "t1_ookbgny", "author": "/u/Active_Wafer9132", "updated": "2026-05-29T13:07:42+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tr0kk4/being_forced_to_choose_between_a_350_monthly_loss/ookbgny/", "content": "Taking that short-term hit will hurt less than taking a monthly hit of $350. If there is a way to meet in the middle and still make a profit, try a counter-offer. Otherwise, tell him you are paying more and that cost gets passed down and let him talk to corporate. Corporate likely understands your side of things anyway." }, { "id": "t1_ooklk0x", "author": "/u/Zealousideal_Swim175", "updated": "2026-05-29T13:56:29+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tr0kk4/being_forced_to_choose_between_a_350_monthly_loss/ooklk0x/", "content": "It sounds like the place the machine is currently located is no longer a profitable location. As a business owner you responsible for making the hard decisions. You are not responsible for the workers wages or the cantina being closed.\n The workers are responsible for themselves. They are not your employees. They know the prices in the vending machine and can choose to use it or bring from home.\n Your choice is to let the shift boss bully you or not. Get ahead of them by going to your contact and letting them know cost went to and why. Offer to remove the machine if you want. Or do nothing but worry. letting the shift boss go complain and see if the higher ups agree and boot you.\n I find it interesting that someone who is a business owner is busy chasing his tail rather than being proactive and find a better location for his products." }, { "id": "t1_ookcxen", "author": "/u/Opalescent_Moon", "updated": "2026-05-29T13:14:57+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tr0kk4/being_forced_to_choose_between_a_350_monthly_loss/ookcxen/", "content": "Have all of your numbers ready to show in case corporate calls you in. You can't control if they terminate your contract, but you can prove that you aren't price gouging." }, { "id": "t1_ookw3e3", "author": "/u/Maddcapp", "updated": "2026-05-29T14:44:34+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tr0kk4/being_forced_to_choose_between_a_350_monthly_loss/ookw3e3/", "content": "You should call corporate and complain about this guy. Explain to them youre pricing fairly and if the workers want cheaper prices they need to subsidize it. Then explain to the night manager that they charge you to place them there which raises the prices. It’s math not generosity. Very simple." }, { "id": "t1_oom8cvm", "author": "/u/Threash78", "updated": "2026-05-29T18:15:09+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tr0kk4/being_forced_to_choose_between_a_350_monthly_loss/oom8cvm/", "content": "Getting kicked out is OBVIOUSLY better than losing money, how is that even a consideration?" }, { "id": "t1_oolq35i", "author": "/u/ShusakuChiba", "updated": "2026-05-29T16:56:16+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tr0kk4/being_forced_to_choose_between_a_350_monthly_loss/oolq35i/", "content": "Good luck finding a vendor that wants to operate at a loss, corporate" }, { "id": "t1_ookq8ja", "author": "/u/Connect_Flounder6855", "updated": "2026-05-29T14:18:12+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tr0kk4/being_forced_to_choose_between_a_350_monthly_loss/ookq8ja/", "content": "Costco bottle eater costs 10 cents/ bottle. You are a dick for selling it for $2.75. Charge whatever you want on literally anything else. There’s only one rule, don’t be cunt about water." }, { "id": "t1_ool3dny", "author": "/u/fffangold", "updated": "2026-05-29T15:16:54+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tr0kk4/being_forced_to_choose_between_a_350_monthly_loss/ool3dny/", "content": "That's not how that works. He's not putting his own tap water in bottles. He's buying bottled water from another company, and marking it up just high enough make profit himself.\n If the workers want bottled water, they still have to pay bottled water prices. If they want tap water, they can bring their own water bottle filled with water from home and refill it using any available water fountain or kitchen tap." }, { "id": "t1_ooua5yz", "author": "/u/Connect_Flounder6855", "updated": "2026-05-30T22:22:15+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tr0kk4/being_forced_to_choose_between_a_350_monthly_loss/ooua5yz/", "content": "I guess you struggle to google Costco 40pk bottled water. It’s between $4-6. Tell me again about the tap water? You sound extremely incompetent." }, { "id": "t1_ooksnvq", "author": "/u/greaseLightness", "updated": "2026-05-29T14:29:11+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tr0kk4/being_forced_to_choose_between_a_350_monthly_loss/ooksnvq/", "content": "Nah, he is selling luxury and convenience for those choosing not to bring anything from home. If they want free water go to the facility sink, kitchen toilet. This man is not social services nor the workers mom or dad. Entitlement much. Perhaps mister supervisor can fight for higher wages... always easy to stick it on the little man." }, { "id": "t1_oouaf95", "author": "/u/Connect_Flounder6855", "updated": "2026-05-30T22:23:43+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tr0kk4/being_forced_to_choose_between_a_350_monthly_loss/oouaf95/", "content": "It’s still a 1000% mark up even at a dollar. No one said free, I guess being able to read is only for the rich now, best of luck." }, { "id": "t1_oon0d10", "author": "/u/ADrunkMexican", "updated": "2026-05-29T20:23:02+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tr0kk4/being_forced_to_choose_between_a_350_monthly_loss/oon0d10/", "content": "You do realize OP is buying from a supplier right? If they jack the prices up on him, hes got no choice in raising prices right?\n Would you start a business to lose money? Lol" }, { "id": "t1_oou9rh3", "author": "/u/Connect_Flounder6855", "updated": "2026-05-30T22:19:57+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tr0kk4/being_forced_to_choose_between_a_350_monthly_loss/oou9rh3/", "content": "I’m not sure what you’re on about. A pack of water is $4-6/dollars at Costco.\n Don’t be a dipshit gauging people on water. Like I said, charge what you want in snacks n shit." }, { "id": "t1_ookeo1k", "author": "/u/Pitiful-Recover-3747", "updated": "2026-05-29T13:23:28+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tr0kk4/being_forced_to_choose_between_a_350_monthly_loss/ookeo1k/", "content": "- I don’t know why anyone thinks vending machines are a passive income.\n- Nobody relies on vending machines or cafeterias when they are a low wage worker. They bring their food from home and use a drinking fountain (source: someone who worked minimum wage jobs) All you have here is a shift super who is not making minimum wage but is annoyed that his nightly taki fuego addiction has experienced 35% inflation. If he’s so pressed about it he should advocate for raises for his team not brow beating the vending machine guy. Ignore him. I would be prepared to show your 35% cost increase to their corporate office though should they reach out to you. In the interim, don’t engage them." }, { "id": "t1_ool04ff", "author": "/u/drsmith48170", "updated": "2026-05-29T15:02:31+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tr0kk4/being_forced_to_choose_between_a_350_monthly_loss/ool04ff/", "content": "To point number 1 - this is the real issue, vending machines aren’t passive. And since he is stocking them anyway, instead of using a distributor he should think about just picking up at least the water from Sam’s Club or Costco, where I’m sure he could find a better price on bottle water. Maybe for snacks, too.\n It would be less passive & more work, but he could likely lower prices and still protect or keep his existing margin." }, { "id": "t1_oolbf8b", "author": "/u/pushycomplexity686", "updated": "2026-05-29T15:52:07+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tr0kk4/being_forced_to_choose_between_a_350_monthly_loss/oolbf8b/", "content": "Costco bulk water is def cheaper but factor in your time driving there weekly plus the upfront membership cost - might not actually move the needle on a $350 monthly loss." }, { "id": "t1_oollkad", "author": "/u/drsmith48170", "updated": "2026-05-29T16:36:35+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tr0kk4/being_forced_to_choose_between_a_350_monthly_loss/oollkad/", "content": "The membership cost is a tax right off for a business. He can buy enough for a month to limit trips, or better yet order it online and have it delivered to his storage facility. Sam’s Club as delivers if amount ordered large enough.\n As someone else said, vending machines aren’t really passive anyway. Think OP is finding out it isn’t and if he continues to try to do it the easy way with less involvement his costs are going to keep going up to the point it if not profitable anymore." }, { "id": "t1_ooocfmp", "author": "/u/Free-Combination-230", "updated": "2026-05-30T00:37:31+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tr0kk4/being_forced_to_choose_between_a_350_monthly_loss/ooocfmp/", "content": "No more data to profit driven shareholders and astroturfers" }, { "id": "t1_oow4y3s", "author": "/u/Pitiful-Recover-3747", "updated": "2026-05-31T05:26:33+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tr0kk4/being_forced_to_choose_between_a_350_monthly_loss/oow4y3s/", "content": "He’s stressed about a $350 loss for a month so I’m guessing there’s cash flow issues" }, { "id": "t1_oomvw3u", "author": "/u/upworking_engineer", "updated": "2026-05-29T20:02:14+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tr0kk4/being_forced_to_choose_between_a_350_monthly_loss/oomvw3u/", "content": "Buy enough from Costco Business Center and get free delivery? Just have to warehouse the goods. Part of the cost of business." }, { "id": "t1_oow6h89", "author": "/u/Pitiful-Recover-3747", "updated": "2026-05-31T05:39:05+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tr0kk4/being_forced_to_choose_between_a_350_monthly_loss/oow6h89/", "content": "Amazon business can be cheap as hell too" }, { "id": "t1_oopp282", "author": "/u/FightmeLuigibestgirl", "updated": "2026-05-30T05:58:44+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tr0kk4/being_forced_to_choose_between_a_350_monthly_loss/oopp282/", "content": "Could have it delivered, might be cheaper than driving or buy from a place that isn’t a membership" }, { "id": "t1_oop5a7c", "author": "/u/JockoDundee007", "updated": "2026-05-30T03:32:31+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tr0kk4/being_forced_to_choose_between_a_350_monthly_loss/oop5a7c/", "content": "What he said ⤴️⤴️⤴️" }, { "id": "t1_ook8klc", "author": "/u/alaricthestrong", "updated": "2026-05-29T12:52:56+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tr0kk4/being_forced_to_choose_between_a_350_monthly_loss/ook8klc/", "content": "500$ is less than two months of loss... So move them.\n I second going to corporate, both bc they might either kick the manager, drop the 10%, or something else useful. This maintains your professional relationship, either for continuing to work with them, or for future contracts.\n Then, if they refuse to do anything, leave." }, { "id": "t1_ookasom", "author": "/u/Weyland_Utan", "updated": "2026-05-29T13:04:20+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tr0kk4/being_forced_to_choose_between_a_350_monthly_loss/ookasom/", "content": "That actually makes a lot of sence. Speaking to corporate first is probably my best option. If they can drop the 10% commission I could easily lower the prices a bit to make everyone happy. If they refuse to help, then paying 500$ to leave is way better than bleeding cash. I just need to find the proper contact person in management." }, { "id": "t1_ookc6ro", "author": "/u/Sp1kes", "updated": "2026-05-29T13:11:19+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tr0kk4/being_forced_to_choose_between_a_350_monthly_loss/ookc6ro/", "content": "Not sure why this post got recommended to me but it is intriguing. I agree, I would go to the corporate office first. Tell them it was brought to your attention a manager is unhappy about the prices, but you aren't gouging and just trying to break even. Go in there with a couple options like you said, dropping the commission or perhaps lowering water price but raising snack prices.\n Vending machines are never meant to be an alternative to real food. The prices are high due to convenience. It shouldn't be a surprise to anyone that they work after the cafeteria is closed. They can bring stuff from home for (assumingly) overnight shifts." }, { "id": "t1_ooksko7", "author": "/u/JarenVos", "updated": "2026-05-29T14:28:47+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tr0kk4/being_forced_to_choose_between_a_350_monthly_loss/ooksko7/", "content": "It's not just their cafeteria, after covid started they closed all the late night places in my area and I was working 3rd shift at the time. We had literally no options and couldn't even go get change for the vending machine (they hadn't implimented cards). Busineses exploit night workers by pretending everything is in parity." }, { "id": "t1_ooomdem", "author": "/u/KeyBaker5", "updated": "2026-05-30T01:35:28+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tr0kk4/being_forced_to_choose_between_a_350_monthly_loss/ooomdem/", "content": "He is completely price gauging though. Even a gas station doesn't charge 2.50 for a bottle of water," }, { "id": "t1_ooph75q", "author": "/u/AreteQueenofKeres", "updated": "2026-05-30T04:57:01+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tr0kk4/being_forced_to_choose_between_a_350_monthly_loss/ooph75q/", "content": "Our vending machine guys price their stuff lower than the local gas station on purpose so we're not tempted to stop on the way in." }, { "id": "t1_ookws2k", "author": "/u/majestic_martin", "updated": "2026-05-29T14:47:39+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tr0kk4/being_forced_to_choose_between_a_350_monthly_loss/ookws2k/", "content": "the facility probably has a vendor agreement that specifies pricing caps so check that contract before talking to corporate since theyd just point you back to it anyway" }, { "id": "t1_ooolmke", "author": "/u/KeyBaker5", "updated": "2026-05-30T01:31:01+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tr0kk4/being_forced_to_choose_between_a_350_monthly_loss/ooolmke/", "content": "Why are the prices so high? Water retails for .15-.20 / bottle.\n Snacks, depending on wich ones are a bit more expensive, but even A list candy bars can be bought for $1 each.\n Less known bars and other snacks quickly drop to .50 - 1.00 and when you go to Kirkland,, the prices are easily under .25 per snack, wich means that if you keep the current snack price you make:\n 2.75 - .25 =2.50\n 2.50-10% = 2.25\n That is your profit per bar, only stocking costs remain.\n So, Yes you are asking too much, and with that you are STILL making way too little money." }, { "id": "t1_ookdp3e", "author": "/u/Forsaken_Lifeguard85", "updated": "2026-05-29T13:18:42+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tr0kk4/being_forced_to_choose_between_a_350_monthly_loss/ookdp3e/", "content": "Do you have to use that distributor for water? You could go to any box store and pay a fraction of the cost for bottles of water and lower the price?" }, { "id": "t1_ool4xm7", "author": "/u/OptionRecent", "updated": "2026-05-29T15:23:44+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tr0kk4/being_forced_to_choose_between_a_350_monthly_loss/ool4xm7/", "content": "That was my thought. The distributor is the source of the problem." }, { "id": "t1_ooxodcn", "author": "/u/88ryder88", "updated": "2026-05-31T12:53:21+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tr0kk4/being_forced_to_choose_between_a_350_monthly_loss/ooxodcn/", "content": "Kirkland 16.9 oz 40 pack ... $4.53 usd. That's 11 cents a bottle? Fire this distributor" }, { "id": "t1_ookb45o", "author": "/u/sam_narulaaa", "updated": "2026-05-29T13:05:58+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tr0kk4/being_forced_to_choose_between_a_350_monthly_loss/ookb45o/", "content": "Honestly the bigger issue here is probably the facility itself. If workers on overnight shifts have no cafeteria access and basically depend on vending machines for water, the company should probably subsidize that instead of expecting a small operator to eat the loss. You’re running a business, not a public utility. At the same time though, $2.75 water inside a workplace is going to feel rough psychologically no matter how justified the math is. A more runnable middle ground might be lowering prices slightly on essentials like water while raising margins on higher convenience items instead of treating every SKU equally." }, { "id": "t1_ooomkeq", "author": "/u/KeyBaker5", "updated": "2026-05-30T01:36:39+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tr0kk4/being_forced_to_choose_between_a_350_monthly_loss/ooomkeq/", "content": "If he manages to sell a .15 bottle of water at 2.75, he is not making a loss, FAR fromit" }, { "id": "t1_ook8oo8", "author": "/u/nowayyoudidthis", "updated": "2026-05-29T12:53:31+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tr0kk4/being_forced_to_choose_between_a_350_monthly_loss/ook8oo8/", "content": "Maybe lower your water bottle costs? Costco water bottles?" }, { "id": "t1_ookfpio", "author": "/u/DoubleIntroduction25", "updated": "2026-05-29T13:28:30+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tr0kk4/being_forced_to_choose_between_a_350_monthly_loss/ookfpio/", "content": "Yeah sounds like he's buying from a distributor. For a smaller business often times the distributor prices are higher than Costco or Sams club. Looks like a 40 pack of "pure life" water bottles is $5 as sams. Thats 13 cents a bottle. If he charge $2 a bottles that 1.87 cents above material cost, which I assume leaves room for transportation cost and time cost.\n We see this with smaller restaurants too. If you're selling 200 bottles of soda a week out of your pizza place Costco is probably better pricing than a distributor.\n But people assume distributors are lower" }, { "id": "t1_ookea2x", "author": "/u/Lionsmane_099", "updated": "2026-05-29T13:21:32+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tr0kk4/being_forced_to_choose_between_a_350_monthly_loss/ookea2x/", "content": "I can understand the various snacks, but what the hell water is costing you $2..75 to make a profit?" }, { "id": "t1_ook89op", "author": "/u/SadPhilosophy9202", "updated": "2026-05-29T12:51:23+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tr0kk4/being_forced_to_choose_between_a_350_monthly_loss/ook89op/", "content": "tell him water is free if they bring it from home" }, { "id": "t1_ookaojx", "author": "/u/Weyland_Utan", "updated": "2026-05-29T13:03:45+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tr0kk4/being_forced_to_choose_between_a_350_monthly_loss/ookaojx/", "content": "I might say that if I wanted to get kicked out even faster." }, { "id": "t1_ookcy3h", "author": "/u/TheCopenhagenCowboy", "updated": "2026-05-29T13:15:03+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tr0kk4/being_forced_to_choose_between_a_350_monthly_loss/ookcy3h/", "content": "Are you selling something like Dasani or cheap supermarket spring water?" }, { "id": "t1_ookds1p", "author": "/u/Moist-Protection3711", "updated": "2026-05-29T13:19:07+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tr0kk4/being_forced_to_choose_between_a_350_monthly_loss/ookds1p/", "content": "You need to shoot around on your inventory. Sounds like you are getting screwed." }, { "id": "t1_oomi848", "author": "/u/ImpressionRare6497", "updated": "2026-05-29T18:59:20+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tr0kk4/being_forced_to_choose_between_a_350_monthly_loss/oomi848/", "content": "Honestly, I disagree with most of the comments here. Your prices are way too high. At Walmart, a Pure Life Purified Water 35-pack of 16.9 fluid ounce plastic bottles costs $5.98. This means that each bottle costs approximately $0.17 at retail. Your prices are 16 times higher than a Walmart bottle of Pure Life water.\n I do not know what prices you are paying your supplier. However, if their rates are that expensive, you should consider buying directly from Walmart or contacting another supplier. If you reduce your prices, customers will feel more grateful, more people will buy from you, and you will probably achieve even bigger profit margins.\n Your problem is not the facility's night shift supervisor. He is right, and your prices are ridiculous. Your actual problem is that you are paying an absurd amount to your supplier, which directly forces you to set ridiculous retail prices as well." }, { "id": "t1_ooo3aex", "author": "/u/kelldricked", "updated": "2026-05-29T23:44:38+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tr0kk4/being_forced_to_choose_between_a_350_monthly_loss/ooo3aex/", "content": "Regardless if prices are to high, nobody depends on a vending machine. Dumbest shit i ever heard (today) on reddit. As if its impossiblr to bring a backpack with water and some food to work" }, { "id": "t1_oopi9iy", "author": "/u/AreteQueenofKeres", "updated": "2026-05-30T05:05:03+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tr0kk4/being_forced_to_choose_between_a_350_monthly_loss/oopi9iy/", "content": ""Poor people" definitely aren't relying solely on the vending machine either; you can get those big boxes of single serve chips and throw together some sandwiches for way less than paying vending machine prices, and bringing your own cup means you can get water (not from a bottle) for free from the sink or a water/ice machine.\n Somebody's complaining that his nightly Takis fix is too expensive." }, { "id": "t1_oou8775", "author": "/u/ImpressionRare6497", "updated": "2026-05-30T22:11:04+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tr0kk4/being_forced_to_choose_between_a_350_monthly_loss/oou8775/", "content": "I don't get your point. Nobody said people depend on a vending machine. My point was that prices are indeed too high and you said "regardless if prices are to high" You argued against something I didn't say and refused to address my actual point." }, { "id": "t1_oowg2tp", "author": "/u/kelldricked", "updated": "2026-05-31T07:00:05+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tr0kk4/being_forced_to_choose_between_a_350_monthly_loss/oowg2tp/", "content": "Paragraph 4 of OP text" }, { "id": "t1_ookdwrs", "author": "/u/WallStreetThrowBack", "updated": "2026-05-29T13:19:45+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tr0kk4/being_forced_to_choose_between_a_350_monthly_loss/ookdwrs/", "content": "- It’s your route\n- He’s not any authority over you\n- This is a business. Make money" }, { "id": "t1_ook8ng0", "author": "/u/Tumifaigirar", "updated": "2026-05-29T12:53:20+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tr0kk4/being_forced_to_choose_between_a_350_monthly_loss/ook8ng0/", "content": "Talk to management, supervisor can suck your dick if you are on a loss" }, { "id": "t1_ookb554", "author": "/u/CorrectAirline4286", "updated": "2026-05-29T13:06:06+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tr0kk4/being_forced_to_choose_between_a_350_monthly_loss/ookb554/", "content": "Bro, if you can't afford to charge less than 2.75 for water, you got a fucked up business plan and deserve to fail." }, { "id": "t1_ooncqge", "author": "/u/zeptillian", "updated": "2026-05-29T21:22:32+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tr0kk4/being_forced_to_choose_between_a_350_monthly_loss/ooncqge/", "content": "Dude.\n https://www.costco.com/p/-/kirkland-signature-bottled-water-169-fl-oz-40-count-48-case-pallet/100344425\n This water is $0.24 per bottle with free delivery.\n Why the fuck do you need to charge $2.75 for water?" }, { "id": "t1_oooh6nj", "author": "/u/BoilerplateBillions", "updated": "2026-05-30T01:04:46+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tr0kk4/being_forced_to_choose_between_a_350_monthly_loss/oooh6nj/", "content": "Can't you grab the cheap ass flats of water to stock water for 1.25 and keep whatever bougie water you're buying at 2.25 for people who want to buy it? You can get custom brnded water bottles if you have some space to store 20 something flats for $15 a flat, or 60 cents a botle.\n At 60 cents a bottle 1.25 still lets you get a marginal profit, but a profit." }, { "id": "t1_ooothph", "author": "/u/Dragnskull", "updated": "2026-05-30T02:18:09+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tr0kk4/being_forced_to_choose_between_a_350_monthly_loss/ooothph/", "content": "you know what's really predatory? paying overnight workers a low wage and not providing them free bottled water and instead bringing in a vending machine through a 3rd party and then telling the 3rd party -they're- the problem for why their workers cant have/afford cold bottled water." }, { "id": "t1_ookg1ts", "author": "/u/Unique-Run9856", "updated": "2026-05-29T13:30:09+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tr0kk4/being_forced_to_choose_between_a_350_monthly_loss/ookg1ts/", "content": "Holy crap those prices are predatory. Switch your supplier to walmart" }, { "id": "t1_ookt1sw", "author": "/u/OkRelease3215", "updated": "2026-05-29T14:30:55+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tr0kk4/being_forced_to_choose_between_a_350_monthly_loss/ookt1sw/", "content": "I don't think there's a way to morally justify charging someone $2.75 for a bottle of water. I think you just need to get out of that line." }, { "id": "t1_oopi2qd", "author": "/u/AreteQueenofKeres", "updated": "2026-05-30T05:03:37+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tr0kk4/being_forced_to_choose_between_a_350_monthly_loss/oopi2qd/", "content": "Especially if it's the tiny 16 ounce bottles -- we keep those Pure Life ones in our lab's mini fridge and the cost breaks down to around .16 cents a bottle per case.\n If you handed me one of those and asked for $2.75, I'd hand it back. There's a paper coffee cup somewhere and I can get water from the cooler, sink, or ice machine." }, { "id": "t1_oon98ku", "author": "/u/unl1988", "updated": "2026-05-29T21:05:23+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tr0kk4/being_forced_to_choose_between_a_350_monthly_loss/oon98ku/", "content": "Turn it back on him. Why doesn't he have water fountains or coolers in the break room? To me, vending machines are a luxury." }, { "id": "t1_ooodjjv", "author": "/u/Free-Combination-230", "updated": "2026-05-30T00:43:54+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tr0kk4/being_forced_to_choose_between_a_350_monthly_loss/ooodjjv/", "content": "No more data to profit driven shareholders and astroturfers" }, { "id": "t1_ooomxqo", "author": "/u/KeyBaker5", "updated": "2026-05-30T01:38:53+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tr0kk4/being_forced_to_choose_between_a_350_monthly_loss/ooomxqo/", "content": "It's not the company that demands to lower his prices, it is a single shift supervisor.\n 10% for things like power, access for restocking, maybe even someone who can kick the machine a few times if its out? Seems pretty normal to me." }, { "id": "t1_oopjb6d", "author": "/u/LVtapper", "updated": "2026-05-30T05:13:03+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tr0kk4/being_forced_to_choose_between_a_350_monthly_loss/oopjb6d/", "content": "If your contract is terminated do you think the next guy can do better?\n I hope you are exaggerating when you say you will have no profit from selling bottled water for $2.75. Buying bottled water from Costco works out to about 10-20 cents per bottle, depending on the brand." }, { "id": "t1_ookduzz", "author": "/u/chester_shadows", "updated": "2026-05-29T13:19:30+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tr0kk4/being_forced_to_choose_between_a_350_monthly_loss/ookduzz/", "content": "Seems like we need to understand the “35 percent increase in distributor process” due to inflation. Are you contracted with this distributor? That’s is way more than inflation.\n Also why don’t you talk to corporate directly, explain the confrontation and the situation and then you threaten to leave if the supervisor keeps confronting you." }, { "id": "t1_ookg0yg", "author": "/u/MsMeringue", "updated": "2026-05-29T13:30:02+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tr0kk4/being_forced_to_choose_between_a_350_monthly_loss/ookg0yg/", "content": "You're being hustled.\n Stick to business." }, { "id": "t1_ookhsoy", "author": "/u/OddCoast6499", "updated": "2026-05-29T13:38:37+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tr0kk4/being_forced_to_choose_between_a_350_monthly_loss/ookhsoy/", "content": "$2.75 for bottled water is wild lol. You’re not supposed to make all of your money back year 1 lol. Remember high volume is better than high price. Lower it to $1 and watch your machine empty out much faster. If you buy water from Sam’s Club/Costco it only costs like .10-.20 a bottle." }, { "id": "t1_ookjycg", "author": "/u/Hboy121", "updated": "2026-05-29T13:48:56+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tr0kk4/being_forced_to_choose_between_a_350_monthly_loss/ookjycg/", "content": "You sound dumb. At my work in a London department store, we have a staff cafferteria that was once run in house but got made a consession about 15 years ago and the prices started to go up and portion size go down. That's when I started bring my own food, and few years later my own sparkling water which cost about 0.20p per bottle if bought from Lidl 12 pack. The cafferteria charges £1.29 per bottle and lots of people pay, not me, that's freedom of choice, stop thinking of being a nanny to adults who have freedom to bring their own." }, { "id": "t1_ool3sly", "author": "/u/dukenuk3m", "updated": "2026-05-29T15:18:43+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tr0kk4/being_forced_to_choose_between_a_350_monthly_loss/ool3sly/", "content": "It's the employers job to provide fresh clean drinking water to their employees--not yours." }, { "id": "t1_oopape5", "author": "/u/undeadlamaar", "updated": "2026-05-30T04:09:39+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tr0kk4/being_forced_to_choose_between_a_350_monthly_loss/oopape5/", "content": "I agree with this, why do they not have water coolers already? They should not be relying on vending machines to keep their workers hydrated.\n My last two places of employment, both owned by some seriously cheap ass owners used to have a weekly water cooler delivery for a warehouse with about a dozen and a half employees. And we had vending machines there for soft drinks and snacks if we didn't want water.\n Also, sinks. People need to get over this whole can't drink tap water bullshit. 99% of municipal water systems in America are completely safe to drink. Far safer than drinking water from a bottle which leeches chemicals and microplastics into the water as it sits in a hot ass warehouse for weeks on end before being sold, while simultaneously creating immeasurable amounts of plastic waste." }, { "id": "t1_ookdkg8", "author": "/u/Soffritto_Cake_24", "updated": "2026-05-29T13:18:06+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tr0kk4/being_forced_to_choose_between_a_350_monthly_loss/ookdkg8/", "content": "They can always buy cheap water at costco and bring with them. They are just lazy, not ‘reliant on you’." }, { "id": "t1_oomxni2", "author": "/u/JarenVos", "updated": "2026-05-29T20:10:27+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tr0kk4/being_forced_to_choose_between_a_350_monthly_loss/oomxni2/", "content": "They're trying to support his business but he charges too much." }, { "id": "t1_ooke2ce", "author": "/u/i_lost_all_my_money", "updated": "2026-05-29T13:20:29+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tr0kk4/being_forced_to_choose_between_a_350_monthly_loss/ooke2ce/", "content": "Tell corporate that you'll break down the numbers for them. But don't take a loss. Why keep your machines there if you're losing money because management decided that you should? And ive worked at these companies. I doubt corporate would listen to a random middle manager. His job is to make sure employees show up on time, not yell at the vending machine guy. They might not care about the issue and ignore it tbh." }, { "id": "t1_ookf1en", "author": "/u/largos7289", "updated": "2026-05-29T13:25:16+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tr0kk4/being_forced_to_choose_between_a_350_monthly_loss/ookf1en/", "content": "best thing about capitalism is choice. People don't understand basic business economics. Your costs increase so do the prices. Operating at a loss is not good business if it's your sole income. It just really irks me when he came back at you with the whole, my guys are forced to buy. No they are not, they can brown bag it and I'm sure they have water fountains there, if not they can bring their own. Sorry it really just rubbed me the wrong way." }, { "id": "t1_oomxvf8", "author": "/u/JarenVos", "updated": "2026-05-29T20:11:28+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tr0kk4/being_forced_to_choose_between_a_350_monthly_loss/oomxvf8/", "content": "They are trying to support his business if he is incapable of affordable supplier they should force him out for a different vendor. It's a two way street." }, { "id": "t1_ookg329", "author": "/u/BULL-MARKET", "updated": "2026-05-29T13:30:19+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tr0kk4/being_forced_to_choose_between_a_350_monthly_loss/ookg329/", "content": "They can bring water and chips to work from home if your’s are too expensive." }, { "id": "t1_ookg3et", "author": "/u/No_Nefariousness8076", "updated": "2026-05-29T13:30:22+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tr0kk4/being_forced_to_choose_between_a_350_monthly_loss/ookg3et/", "content": "While I understand that you have empathy for these workers, they are not "forced to buy" from you. They could bring their own cheaper water and snacks. Maybe they, and you, should be asking their employer why they need a 10% commission when you are subsidizing them closing their cafeteria at 6pm." }, { "id": "t1_ookgpoe", "author": "/u/No_Nefariousness8076", "updated": "2026-05-29T13:33:22+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tr0kk4/being_forced_to_choose_between_a_350_monthly_loss/ookgpoe/", "content": "I just feel like there's a deal to be made here." }, { "id": "t1_ookge69", "author": "/u/pbjclimbing", "updated": "2026-05-29T13:31:49+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tr0kk4/being_forced_to_choose_between_a_350_monthly_loss/ookge69/", "content": "You have more options than you are implying.\n How often are you restocking. You could reduce the number of items by half and add the best sellers to multiple cells. You could then switch from nice water to Costco water. Then reduce your restocking by 50%. Price your snacks individually, with some cheaper so it appears you are offering some as a deal.\n Talk to management, explain what is going on. Look at your supplier. Does the facility want cheap or good." }, { "id": "t1_ookizfx", "author": "/u/Holls867", "updated": "2026-05-29T13:44:19+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tr0kk4/being_forced_to_choose_between_a_350_monthly_loss/ookizfx/", "content": "Can you buy cheaper water?" }, { "id": "t1_ookjiy2", "author": "/u/Lostinthewoods1998", "updated": "2026-05-29T13:46:55+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tr0kk4/being_forced_to_choose_between_a_350_monthly_loss/ookjiy2/", "content": "Looks like the night shift is gonna start bringing lunch" }, { "id": "t1_ooknrhp", "author": "/u/UpstairsCheetah235", "updated": "2026-05-29T14:06:51+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tr0kk4/being_forced_to_choose_between_a_350_monthly_loss/ooknrhp/", "content": "$2.75 for water is pretty insane. Better distributor? Your cost of water should be < 50 cents." }, { "id": "t1_ooktoxp", "author": "/u/Vegas-Patriot", "updated": "2026-05-29T14:33:50+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tr0kk4/being_forced_to_choose_between_a_350_monthly_loss/ooktoxp/", "content": "Pull the machines! Do not ever operate at a loss to make the customer happy. Do not ever leave machines at a location where you are being threatened if you don’t lower costs." }, { "id": "t1_oolcx8i", "author": "/u/Blind_Camel", "updated": "2026-05-29T15:58:36+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tr0kk4/being_forced_to_choose_between_a_350_monthly_loss/oolcx8i/", "content": "Why the hell would you take a loss? Raise your prices." }, { "id": "t1_ooljqzr", "author": "/u/notreallylucy", "updated": "2026-05-29T16:28:35+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tr0kk4/being_forced_to_choose_between_a_350_monthly_loss/ooljqzr/", "content": "Strike first. Contact the facility and tell them the night shift supervisor approaching you directly about prices is inappropriate." }, { "id": "t1_oom9mrd", "author": "/u/Beautiful_Proof_1410", "updated": "2026-05-29T18:20:44+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tr0kk4/being_forced_to_choose_between_a_350_monthly_loss/oom9mrd/", "content": "How much do you pay for the bottles and snacks?" }, { "id": "t1_oomfvw9", "author": "/u/Tom_Adder", "updated": "2026-05-29T18:48:51+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tr0kk4/being_forced_to_choose_between_a_350_monthly_loss/oomfvw9/", "content": "I'm not sure where on Earth you are, but if you're in Canada, workplaces are required by law to have an accessible source of drinking water. I'd advise to check local laws." }, { "id": "t1_oon2tx6", "author": "/u/GrabOk4101", "updated": "2026-05-29T20:34:40+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tr0kk4/being_forced_to_choose_between_a_350_monthly_loss/oon2tx6/", "content": "Why on earth is the business not providing free water? Wth lol" }, { "id": "t1_oonbjw8", "author": "/u/zeptillian", "updated": "2026-05-29T21:16:43+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tr0kk4/being_forced_to_choose_between_a_350_monthly_loss/oonbjw8/", "content": ""Should I take the financial hit to keep the peace"\n No. Tell the supervisor that they company is taking 10% off the top which is greater than your own profit margins. Tell them that the only way to get cheaper food in the vending machine is if the company agrees to give up their take or agrees to subsidize the costs of having the machine there and restocked regularly, which is something that a lot of places actually do for employees." }, { "id": "t1_oonxlfo", "author": "/u/Vas-yMonRoux", "updated": "2026-05-29T23:12:49+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tr0kk4/being_forced_to_choose_between_a_350_monthly_loss/oonxlfo/", "content": "Yeaaah, no. They don't need the vending machine snacks, they don't have to rely on it at all: they chose to buy from it. They can choose to bring a water bottle and a lunchbox, at any time." }, { "id": "t1_ooo5ozs", "author": "/u/FieryTub", "updated": "2026-05-29T23:58:22+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tr0kk4/being_forced_to_choose_between_a_350_monthly_loss/ooo5ozs/", "content": "Its better to lose the gig once than to lose $350 every month." }, { "id": "t1_oooifc3", "author": "/u/OsamaBinWhiskers", "updated": "2026-05-30T01:11:58+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tr0kk4/being_forced_to_choose_between_a_350_monthly_loss/oooifc3/", "content": "Sounds like this is where you goes play business and man tf, hold strong, when they threaten to cancel you convince them to subsidize it for employee morale.\n Also get cheaper water? wtf\n Also also that’s why this shit isn’t passive. It’s a job" }, { "id": "t1_ooou2m6", "author": "/u/Dragnskull", "updated": "2026-05-30T02:21:38+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tr0kk4/being_forced_to_choose_between_a_350_monthly_loss/ooou2m6/", "content": "if the operating cost would net -350/mo with the lower pricing what is the logic to "keeping the peace" by giving into his demands? would losing the contract result in other locations being lost as well? i don't understand how this is anything other than a "i told him i cant and if he doesn't like it i'll take my machines out and they can replace it with a fridge stocked with cold water for their employees like any half decent employer would do"" }, { "id": "t1_ookaivx", "author": "/u/unggoytweaker", "updated": "2026-05-29T13:02:57+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tr0kk4/being_forced_to_choose_between_a_350_monthly_loss/ookaivx/", "content": "The workers are not forced to buy anything from you. Tell him to kick rocks and laugh in his face" }, { "id": "t1_ookbncb", "author": "/u/EnvironmentalCow121", "updated": "2026-05-29T13:08:38+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tr0kk4/being_forced_to_choose_between_a_350_monthly_loss/ookbncb/", "content": "get a new supplier for a water bottle lol you can get a 20pack for 20 bucks at some places" }, { "id": "t1_ookcihe", "author": "/u/Conscious-Evidence37", "updated": "2026-05-29T13:12:56+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tr0kk4/being_forced_to_choose_between_a_350_monthly_loss/ookcihe/", "content": "If you have a contract with the Facility, and you have done nothing wrong that violates the contract, tell the Night shift supervisor to F-off. Let him go to the bosses, you are protected by your contract. Maybe one day UNICEF will open a vending machine for those workers. until then, it is not your job to subsidize them." }, { "id": "t1_ooke2ts", "author": "/u/m0nt4n4", "updated": "2026-05-29T13:20:33+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tr0kk4/being_forced_to_choose_between_a_350_monthly_loss/ooke2ts/", "content": "- Be transparent about what you’re dealing with on inflation.\n\n- If you are having to price bottled water at $2.50, go to Walmart and buy bottled water from them / get different suppliers. I don’t blame this guy for being pissed about those prices." }, { "id": "t1_ookfgn5", "author": "/u/PeptideResearchGuy", "updated": "2026-05-29T13:27:19+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tr0kk4/being_forced_to_choose_between_a_350_monthly_loss/ookfgn5/", "content": "They do not depend on the machines to get through the workday. They can bring food from home and drink tap water like millions of other people do every day.\n Also, we do not really know if the entire team feels this strongly or if it is just a few individuals. Either way, at some point adulting takes a little effort and personal responsibility." }, { "id": "t1_ookfu3r", "author": "/u/Superb_Advisor7885", "updated": "2026-05-29T13:29:06+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tr0kk4/being_forced_to_choose_between_a_350_monthly_loss/ookfu3r/", "content": "I never thought of this perspective. Next time I head to the gas pump, or grocery store, I'm going to threaten corporate to lower prices. Hoping I find a business owner like you\n /s\n Edit: these comments are wild telling you to lower your costs. It's almost like people don't really understand how to profit from a business. If you have a captive market, charge whatever you can get away with" }, { "id": "t1_ookgfty", "author": "/u/mdbrown85", "updated": "2026-05-29T13:32:02+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tr0kk4/being_forced_to_choose_between_a_350_monthly_loss/ookgfty/", "content": "State your case, if or when corporate ever comes to you. Were you not heard when you gave an explanation to the supervisor? Does he think once you’re vending machines leave then they’ll get something cheaper? If corporate does terminate your contract early, are they responsible for helping you move them? Sounds like the supervisor should be advocating for a raise for his employees to cover inflation not go after your business." }, { "id": "t1_ookifw6", "author": "/u/Virtual_Childhood626", "updated": "2026-05-29T13:41:43+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tr0kk4/being_forced_to_choose_between_a_350_monthly_loss/ookifw6/", "content": "Could you just switch to a lower costing brand and keep the profit margin you’re used to? Or buy more water in bulk at a lower cost? Obviously you’re not running a charity, and losing this site would suck.\n Another option is letting water be your loss leader but increasing all other costs by 5-10%. Whatever might be low enough to not be noticed.\n I feel like the fact that these employees are relying on vending machine water says a lot about this site. I’m surprised they don’t have a filtered water and ice station to fill personal water bottles with." }, { "id": "t1_ookjsm2", "author": "/u/NikolaiXPass", "updated": "2026-05-29T13:48:11+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tr0kk4/being_forced_to_choose_between_a_350_monthly_loss/ookjsm2/", "content": "Sounds like you have an infeasible business. You should go to corporate to ask if they’d be willing to subsidize a part of the cost of the water and snacks, or move the equipment. If you move the equipment the company will have to pay to provide water (at least), so they may be willing to help.\n Either way, you should make a change." }, { "id": "t1_ookkbo1", "author": "/u/Alarmed_Ear4015", "updated": "2026-05-29T13:50:42+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tr0kk4/being_forced_to_choose_between_a_350_monthly_loss/ookkbo1/", "content": "Nobody addressed this $500 move or early termination yet. Do you have anything in your contract about early term? If not, maybe consider adding something that covers moving expenses plus (let's say) 2 months to cover lost revenue from a non-producing machine." }, { "id": "t1_ookkh47", "author": "/u/Forward_Cattle_2462", "updated": "2026-05-29T13:51:25+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tr0kk4/being_forced_to_choose_between_a_350_monthly_loss/ookkh47/", "content": "Tell him to supply the water and he can have 100% of the “profit”" }, { "id": "t1_ooklpyu", "author": "/u/tubagoat", "updated": "2026-05-29T13:57:15+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tr0kk4/being_forced_to_choose_between_a_350_monthly_loss/ooklpyu/", "content": "I know a lot of vendors who buy cans of pop when they go on sale at the grocery store, which is cheaper than buying from Coke or Pepsi directly. The problem with that is that you can't rely on a set price all of the time, you have to wait for sales." }, { "id": "t1_ookm5e5", "author": "/u/Queenasheeba99", "updated": "2026-05-29T13:59:17+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tr0kk4/being_forced_to_choose_between_a_350_monthly_loss/ookm5e5/", "content": "Have you considered shopping around for a different distributor? If this is a small side business, why not get water somewhere else? Seems like you are also overpaying." }, { "id": "t1_ookod87", "author": "/u/duhbeach", "updated": "2026-05-29T14:09:39+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tr0kk4/being_forced_to_choose_between_a_350_monthly_loss/ookod87/", "content": "I haven’t read all the comments but every one seems to be acting like the supervisor is going to be able to get through to corporate and convince them to terminate a contract… what if.. he’s just a loud asshole trying to intimidate you and it worked? Can’t you just ignore him??? Can you imagine a supervisor at a plant bringing this issue to corporate and them caring whatsoever? He’s scheduling a meeting to talk about … the prices for snacks in the vending machine in the break room? Huh?\n If the contract gets cancelled and you have to move for $500, okay. Start scouting other places now, see what your options are, have some backup places in mind… and tell the supervisor that no one has to buy the products if they don’t want to." }, { "id": "t1_oolrhss", "author": "/u/Grim_Times2020", "updated": "2026-05-29T17:02:20+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tr0kk4/being_forced_to_choose_between_a_350_monthly_loss/oolrhss/", "content": "100% that OP and comments are prob taking a random night shift manager as a voice of authority.\n Bro is pretty much the same level of decision making as a 19 year old kid working the drive thru by himself at 2am.\n The minute he opened his mouth, the answer should be tell your bosses to remove their commission cost if you want cheaper water." }, { "id": "t1_ookppgs", "author": "/u/repooc21", "updated": "2026-05-29T14:15:48+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tr0kk4/being_forced_to_choose_between_a_350_monthly_loss/ookppgs/", "content": "You should call corporate first. This isn't a hard problem to solve, you're just making it that way.\n Give in to the aggressive supervisor and operate at a loss for who knows how long or take your chances and worst case, you take a one time hit and move them.\n Call your contact or any contact at corporate and address it. Go over this person's head. Strike first. Also, read your contract and make sure you know any and all options to maneuver as needed." }, { "id": "t1_ookqfd4", "author": "/u/Signal_Cover6516", "updated": "2026-05-29T14:19:03+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tr0kk4/being_forced_to_choose_between_a_350_monthly_loss/ookqfd4/", "content": "I would speak with whoever you normally deal with concerning the contract.\n Put it all in an email with date and time stamps, exactly what was said and by who.\n Then add in that you felt threatened and blackmailed by the supervisor and didn't expect this from such a well respected company. Make sure you throw in harassment too.\n If the company is midsize or larger, they have a company handbook and I guarantee there is a provision against this. I highly doubt the super will even look your way after this." }, { "id": "t1_ookqow4", "author": "/u/Not-a-Cranky-Panda", "updated": "2026-05-29T14:20:15+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tr0kk4/being_forced_to_choose_between_a_350_monthly_loss/ookqow4/", "content": "Why did the company not just get there own? The only reason is they did not think it would make money, so they are now upset when they see you doing it. If they move yours out they will move their own in nd the one thing I'm sure about is the price will not drop to anywhere like they tell you to have.\n They have a way of dropping the price by 10% but you notice they're not turning the money down." }, { "id": "t1_ookr45z", "author": "/u/Mechanical_Monk", "updated": "2026-05-29T14:22:12+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tr0kk4/being_forced_to_choose_between_a_350_monthly_loss/ookr45z/", "content": "Explain the math and offer to let him subsidize the costs for his workers by paying you a monthly fee." }, { "id": "t1_ooonb4u", "author": "/u/KeyBaker5", "updated": "2026-05-30T01:41:07+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tr0kk4/being_forced_to_choose_between_a_350_monthly_loss/ooonb4u/", "content": "The math would pretty much destroy his arguments though, a 1000% margin on water, and a 500% margin on snacks." }, { "id": "t1_ookrcha", "author": "/u/JCitW6855", "updated": "2026-05-29T14:23:15+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tr0kk4/being_forced_to_choose_between_a_350_monthly_loss/ookrcha/", "content": "Keep your prices where they need to be to run your business. Start making a list of future locations if it comes to that. He is clueless about running a business, don’t take advice from stupid people. Not saying he’s stupid in general, but he’s stupid about this subject.\n I also agree with comments about talking to corporate." }, { "id": "t1_ookrqh9", "author": "/u/panic_bread", "updated": "2026-05-29T14:24:58+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tr0kk4/being_forced_to_choose_between_a_350_monthly_loss/ookrqh9/", "content": "You should reach out to corporate (or whomever you signed the contract with) first and let them know about this conversation. Tell them the supervisor was extremely hostile and threatening. Let them know you are cannot lower prices without losing money.\n Think about it. If you can't make money lowering prices, no one is going to be able to sell for lower. And it's not predatory because these workers can (gasp) think ahead and bring what food and water they need for their shift. Also, their employer should be providing them with water." }, { "id": "t1_ookst2w", "author": "/u/Cofeefe", "updated": "2026-05-29T14:29:49+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tr0kk4/being_forced_to_choose_between_a_350_monthly_loss/ookst2w/", "content": "Updateme!" }, { "id": "t1_ookubh9", "author": "/u/followedbymeteor", "updated": "2026-05-29T14:36:38+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tr0kk4/being_forced_to_choose_between_a_350_monthly_loss/ookubh9/", "content": "I just bought 40 bottles of water at costco for 7 bucks" }, { "id": "t1_ookv75q", "author": "/u/magichronx", "updated": "2026-05-29T14:40:33+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tr0kk4/being_forced_to_choose_between_a_350_monthly_loss/ookv75q/", "content": "Couple things here....\n\n- You're running a business, not a charity. The super expecting you to operate at a loss is beyond silly.\n\n- I'd ask corporate to nix the 10% commission if their workers actually "depend" on a vending machine.\n\n- It sounds like you're overpaying for your water bottle supply" }, { "id": "t1_ookwaqi", "author": "/u/Flaky_Report3617", "updated": "2026-05-29T14:45:28+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tr0kk4/being_forced_to_choose_between_a_350_monthly_loss/ookwaqi/", "content": "Why doesn’t management just spend money on a water cooler or just a case for 5 bucks every night. The company seems crazy your prices also seem a little high. I pay a premium at a vending machine but a soda should be 2.75 or 3 not water" }, { "id": "t1_ookwkh1", "author": "/u/majestic_martin", "updated": "2026-05-29T14:46:42+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tr0kk4/being_forced_to_choose_between_a_350_monthly_loss/ookwkh1/", "content": "pull them and move on, 350 a month loss isnt passive income its just paying them to use your machines. the supervisor is mad about inflation not your prices and thats not your problem to solve" }, { "id": "t1_ookwyeu", "author": "/u/ruehite", "updated": "2026-05-29T14:48:25+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tr0kk4/being_forced_to_choose_between_a_350_monthly_loss/ookwyeu/", "content": "Costco water?" }, { "id": "t1_ookx7so", "author": "/u/knowone1313", "updated": "2026-05-29T14:49:35+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tr0kk4/being_forced_to_choose_between_a_350_monthly_loss/ookx7so/", "content": "Sounds stupid to me. Explain to him that you'd be operating at a loss and that corporate is taking 10% which drives up the cost more.\n If he still reports you, talk to corporate and explain it to them too.\n If vending machines are too expensive, then the workers will bring stuff from home. Who's relying on vending machines for anything other than a snack if they need a little something extra." }, { "id": "t1_ookypjy", "author": "/u/Overall-Fig870", "updated": "2026-05-29T14:56:12+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tr0kk4/being_forced_to_choose_between_a_350_monthly_loss/ookypjy/", "content": "By your distributor… do you mean Costco? It’s possible you’re paying too much for your product to begin with. Because on what planet is a water bottle 2.75? Obv it’s stupid to operate at a loss but is it possible that you’re getting bag prices on your goods?" }, { "id": "t1_ool0r71", "author": "/u/kabekew", "updated": "2026-05-29T15:05:21+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tr0kk4/being_forced_to_choose_between_a_350_monthly_loss/ool0r71/", "content": "You explain your costs and show you're not gouging them. Or you can offer to sell them your machines and let them stock them and pay for everything themselves, or just ask for a monthly subsidy to offset the lower prices." }, { "id": "t1_ool6644", "author": "/u/East-Dog2979", "updated": "2026-05-29T15:29:13+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tr0kk4/being_forced_to_choose_between_a_350_monthly_loss/ool6644/", "content": "Move them now while it's a $500 loss and not next month when its a $700 loss." }, { "id": "t1_ool7r69", "author": "/u/Blindraise013", "updated": "2026-05-29T15:36:11+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tr0kk4/being_forced_to_choose_between_a_350_monthly_loss/ool7r69/", "content": "I would be interested is being your distributor lol" }, { "id": "t1_oolatem", "author": "/u/robbie5643", "updated": "2026-05-29T15:49:29+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tr0kk4/being_forced_to_choose_between_a_350_monthly_loss/oolatem/", "content": "You can also just get a Costco/bjs/ other consumer retailer membership in your area and get bulk cheap water for a little over $.10 each. I’d look into something similar for snacks and then just add in a few options at that price point and still make profit. Idk if the contract demands certain products but if they want cheap water give them cheap water." }, { "id": "t1_oolny60", "author": "/u/educationalstab", "updated": "2026-05-29T16:47:01+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tr0kk4/being_forced_to_choose_between_a_350_monthly_loss/oolny60/", "content": "you need to tell that supervisor that most companies subsidize vending machine product" }, { "id": "t1_oolpxxa", "author": "/u/brockclan216", "updated": "2026-05-29T16:55:38+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tr0kk4/being_forced_to_choose_between_a_350_monthly_loss/oolpxxa/", "content": "They do not have to purchase anything from your vending machine. They can bring their own snacks and drinks. You are offering a convenience for people who lack the skills to plan ahead. That is the price of convenience." }, { "id": "t1_oolq8sd", "author": "/u/Grim_Times2020", "updated": "2026-05-29T16:56:57+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tr0kk4/being_forced_to_choose_between_a_350_monthly_loss/oolq8sd/", "content": "Talk to corporate, share your confrontation with the manager.\n Express your concerns, personally I would try to swing for the fences here and ask them to drop 10% commission and ask them to subsidize you instead; your roi on this route already sounds slim enough that you should be researching a higher performing location." }, { "id": "t1_oolrvgu", "author": "/u/oholymike", "updated": "2026-05-29T17:04:00+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tr0kk4/being_forced_to_choose_between_a_350_monthly_loss/oolrvgu/", "content": "Corporate doesn't care what you charge as long as they keep getting their commission." }, { "id": "t1_ooltu77", "author": "/u/AlternativeWish3498", "updated": "2026-05-29T17:12:27+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tr0kk4/being_forced_to_choose_between_a_350_monthly_loss/ooltu77/", "content": "Before you do anything drastic, have you actually tried talking to corporate directly instead of going through the supervisor? Like, he might be freelancing here, and corporate might have a totally different take, especially if you come in with actual cost data showing your margins. I've seen vending operators get their commission rate reduced or get better placement terms just by having one honest conversation with the right person. The supervisor threatening you doesn't necessarily mean corporate backs him up." }, { "id": "t1_oolv3qz", "author": "/u/AirLess6683", "updated": "2026-05-29T17:17:58+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tr0kk4/being_forced_to_choose_between_a_350_monthly_loss/oolv3qz/", "content": "Is there not a middle ground between 1.25 and 2.75" }, { "id": "t1_oolw0va", "author": "/u/zxcput", "updated": "2026-05-29T17:21:52+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tr0kk4/being_forced_to_choose_between_a_350_monthly_loss/oolw0va/", "content": "Why don't the workers bring their own snacks and water to work with them? Especially since they know the cafeteria is closed when they're working" }, { "id": "t1_oomxt5d", "author": "/u/Sensitive-Pizza5486", "updated": "2026-05-29T20:11:10+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tr0kk4/being_forced_to_choose_between_a_350_monthly_loss/oomxt5d/", "content": "Right !" }, { "id": "t1_oom087e", "author": "/u/EmuPossible2066", "updated": "2026-05-29T17:39:51+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tr0kk4/being_forced_to_choose_between_a_350_monthly_loss/oom087e/", "content": "Pull the location and put the machine somewhere. Good luck to him finding someone that can afford to take a loss." }, { "id": "t1_oom5es8", "author": "/u/Early-Organization89", "updated": "2026-05-29T18:02:11+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tr0kk4/being_forced_to_choose_between_a_350_monthly_loss/oom5es8/", "content": "Passive: this word doesn't mean what you think it means" }, { "id": "t1_oom6b8e", "author": "/u/Separate_Drive_1246", "updated": "2026-05-29T18:06:08+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tr0kk4/being_forced_to_choose_between_a_350_monthly_loss/oom6b8e/", "content": "I'd find a location with more customers, like an ice rink, or bowling alley, shopping centre, that kind of thing, and then I'd pull the machines. But in all seriousness, no-one is being forced to use your machines. Tha being said, Vending is anything but passive. A lot of folk don't realise that. . ." }, { "id": "t1_oombi81", "author": "/u/hoponbop", "updated": "2026-05-29T18:29:05+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tr0kk4/being_forced_to_choose_between_a_350_monthly_loss/oombi81/", "content": "You go to corporate first. Explain the confrontation and his threat I a calm manner. Also explain the reasons it is necessary for the prices to remain as they are. Thank them for their time and let the chips fall as they may." }, { "id": "t1_oomsn9h", "author": "/u/Difficult-Square451", "updated": "2026-05-29T19:47:18+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tr0kk4/being_forced_to_choose_between_a_350_monthly_loss/oomsn9h/", "content": "That is crazy. You should show them the figures on how much you will profit ." }, { "id": "t1_oomt796", "author": "/u/JohnnyOneLung", "updated": "2026-05-29T19:49:51+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tr0kk4/being_forced_to_choose_between_a_350_monthly_loss/oomt796/", "content": "This has gotta be fake.\n Can move as it Will cost me 500 to move.\n Or shall I lose 350 every fucking month" }, { "id": "t1_oomujx0", "author": "/u/Hrushikesh_1187", "updated": "2026-05-29T19:56:03+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tr0kk4/being_forced_to_choose_between_a_350_monthly_loss/oomujx0/", "content": "Pull the machines and find a better location. Operating at a $350 monthly loss while dealing with hostile supervision isn't a passive income stream, it's a stressful liability. The math doesn't work and the relationship is already broken." }, { "id": "t1_oomy3x5", "author": "/u/sidaemon", "updated": "2026-05-29T20:12:33+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tr0kk4/being_forced_to_choose_between_a_350_monthly_loss/oomy3x5/", "content": "I would have countered with the point that if the waters and availability to his workers were that much of a concern... provide your workers water.\n No one has to buy from a vending machine. The instant you get up and decide not to pack drinks and food from home, you just volunteered to pay whatever is being charged.\n I'm sorry. I have very little sympathy for this having spent years and years delivering packages in either subzero cold or 110+ heat. No one provided me with jack. I either brought it from home or suffered." }, { "id": "t1_oomzl74", "author": "/u/FewHoursGaming", "updated": "2026-05-29T20:19:28+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tr0kk4/being_forced_to_choose_between_a_350_monthly_loss/oomzl74/", "content": "I would make it even more expensive. Fuck that guy." }, { "id": "t1_ooncfj5", "author": "/u/Algiers440", "updated": "2026-05-29T21:21:01+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tr0kk4/being_forced_to_choose_between_a_350_monthly_loss/ooncfj5/", "content": "Let's rephrase this conversation: "We made a business decision to only offer low wages and close our cafeteria during this shift's hours to force them to use a vending machine. Can you further subsidize my shareholder's profits?"" }, { "id": "t1_oonjuyh", "author": "/u/Neat-Armadillo-4767", "updated": "2026-05-29T21:58:19+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tr0kk4/being_forced_to_choose_between_a_350_monthly_loss/oonjuyh/", "content": "Are you buying water from your soda distributor for the price of soda? Tell the supe you’ll start stocking a cheaper water but you’ll have to remove something to make room for" }, { "id": "t1_oonpt5m", "author": "/u/Carcus85", "updated": "2026-05-29T22:29:59+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tr0kk4/being_forced_to_choose_between_a_350_monthly_loss/oonpt5m/", "content": "Maybe they should pay their workers more?" }, { "id": "t1_oonz542", "author": "/u/Ohthatsamanda", "updated": "2026-05-29T23:21:24+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tr0kk4/being_forced_to_choose_between_a_350_monthly_loss/oonz542/", "content": "Move the machines. You’re not a charity. You need to make money. You might find your next place is way more profitable. Take the momentary loss and move. This is YOUR business." }, { "id": "t1_oonz6t1", "author": "/u/757_Matt_911", "updated": "2026-05-29T23:21:40+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tr0kk4/being_forced_to_choose_between_a_350_monthly_loss/oonz6t1/", "content": "Show him the math…" }, { "id": "t1_oonzti7", "author": "/u/Tommyt1212121", "updated": "2026-05-29T23:25:10+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tr0kk4/being_forced_to_choose_between_a_350_monthly_loss/oonzti7/", "content": "Everybody dislikes the vending machine operator, it’s just a fact…" }, { "id": "t1_ooo0fz0", "author": "/u/Choice_Bee_1581", "updated": "2026-05-29T23:28:37+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tr0kk4/being_forced_to_choose_between_a_350_monthly_loss/ooo0fz0/", "content": "Sounds like that company should provide water for free to their employees. I’d move your machines and move on. The math won’t work out." }, { "id": "t1_ooo21xa", "author": "/u/Workdawg", "updated": "2026-05-29T23:37:39+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tr0kk4/being_forced_to_choose_between_a_350_monthly_loss/ooo21xa/", "content": "I just looked on Amazon, and you can get Fiji water, 1L bottles delivered for under $2 each. Even if you add 10% from the company practically stealing from its employees, that's only $2.20 each. What kind of bougie water are you selling that only makes profit at $2.75 a bottle.\n Obviously you can get cheaper water for MUCH cheaper... Maybe you need to rethink your supplier.\n Also, I know there are other costs, but come on." }, { "id": "t1_ooo4yox", "author": "/u/Extension_Growth5966", "updated": "2026-05-29T23:54:13+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tr0kk4/being_forced_to_choose_between_a_350_monthly_loss/ooo4yox/", "content": "Your contract doesn’t have any protections for you from them just canceling in the middle of the contract period?" }, { "id": "t1_ooo98tn", "author": "/u/MuppetMan120596", "updated": "2026-05-30T00:19:01+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tr0kk4/being_forced_to_choose_between_a_350_monthly_loss/ooo98tn/", "content": "Stay steady with your prices. You can’t operate at a loss. If you have to move on to a different facilities, so be it." }, { "id": "t1_oooi022", "author": "/u/OsamaBinWhiskers", "updated": "2026-05-30T01:09:29+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tr0kk4/being_forced_to_choose_between_a_350_monthly_loss/oooi022/", "content": "Sounds like this is where you goes play business and man tf, hold strong, when they threaten to cancel you convince them to subsidize it for employee moral and be ready to leave." }, { "id": "t1_oooqpq5", "author": "/u/BoxMunchr", "updated": "2026-05-30T02:01:22+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tr0kk4/being_forced_to_choose_between_a_350_monthly_loss/oooqpq5/", "content": "Tell that shift manager that if he has a problem with prices going up in step with your costs, he should write a strongly worded letter to Trump." }, { "id": "t1_oooz0br", "author": "/u/sam_narulaaa", "updated": "2026-05-30T02:51:16+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tr0kk4/being_forced_to_choose_between_a_350_monthly_loss/oooz0br/", "content": "[ Removed by Reddit ]" }, { "id": "t1_oophc4a", "author": "/u/Angle-Flat", "updated": "2026-05-30T04:58:04+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tr0kk4/being_forced_to_choose_between_a_350_monthly_loss/oophc4a/", "content": "Without factoring the machine cost, what is your monthly outlay? Who pays for the electricity?\n I don’t get how you can lost $350 per month" }, { "id": "t1_ooqdmsw", "author": "/u/Solefood5", "updated": "2026-05-30T09:29:54+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tr0kk4/being_forced_to_choose_between_a_350_monthly_loss/ooqdmsw/", "content": "$2.75 for water is kind of wild 🥴 Find some cheaper brands to stock maybe." }, { "id": "t1_ooqgd9d", "author": "/u/chinesiumjunk", "updated": "2026-05-30T09:54:00+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tr0kk4/being_forced_to_choose_between_a_350_monthly_loss/ooqgd9d/", "content": "I’d just pull my machines out now and tell them good luck." }, { "id": "t1_ootsefe", "author": "/u/daheff_irl", "updated": "2026-05-30T20:45:53+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tr0kk4/being_forced_to_choose_between_a_350_monthly_loss/ootsefe/", "content": "Next time just tell the guy you are just an employee and he should just contact your company. Give a contact@ email address." }, { "id": "t1_ookcvdn", "author": "/u/ssdsssssss4dr", "updated": "2026-05-29T13:14:42+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tr0kk4/being_forced_to_choose_between_a_350_monthly_loss/ookcvdn/", "content": "Can you renegotiate the commission of get rid of it all together? If they're demanding lower prices, that would be my first counter offer: "get rid of the commission, and I'll see what I can do."\n Is it your duty to lower your prices? Of course not. But I believe that business is more than just about making money, you're also building community. See what you can negotiate in these trying times. If they won't agree, keep the prices you want. They'll either buy or they won't." }, { "id": "t1_ookgd7e", "author": "/u/wingdash75", "updated": "2026-05-29T13:31:41+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tr0kk4/being_forced_to_choose_between_a_350_monthly_loss/ookgd7e/", "content": "Hello. Supervisor. What is your name? Thank you for your feedback. I was just preparing to talk to corporate regarding a path moving forward. With inflation, raise in cost of living, fuel cost, and supply chain increase, the operating expense has drastically increased, we need to talk to corporate inorder to either renegotiate our contract, raise the price again, or cancel our contract and remove my machine at my own expense. We were already operating at bare minimum and any decrease in price will make the business not viable. Unfortunately I have employees to feed also and we can't operate at a lost. If you could kindly let me know who I can contact, I will make sure to mention about your recommendation/feedback to corporate." }, { "id": "t1_ookridu", "author": "/u/goblinspot", "updated": "2026-05-29T14:23:59+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tr0kk4/being_forced_to_choose_between_a_350_monthly_loss/ookridu/", "content": "I hope you told him about the kick back to corporate.\n and honestly, $2.75 is pretty cheap for vended bottled water. Same with snacks.\n The only thing I could think of is if you find something on sale, or with huge discounts in bulk purchases, you could do one or two slots cheap.\n Let me guess, they don’t provide them with refrigeration to bring in their own stuff either, but it’s on you." }, { "id": "t1_oooa3uq", "author": "/u/Eddito88", "updated": "2026-05-30T00:23:59+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tr0kk4/being_forced_to_choose_between_a_350_monthly_loss/oooa3uq/", "content": "Inflation s reality. Donalds fury enterpraise in middle east caused increase in transportation cost, which influences cast of everything else. U r not forcing the workers t use ur machine, yet the one single lower lvl manager is forcing u t loose on ur profit. U can try t find some midleground w the company not w that hostile individual. If the negotiations will not come up w good profitable result for u, no feelings this s a business and life changes. Nothing is forever." }, { "id": "t1_ooke7oz", "author": "/u/Puzzleheaded-Ad4657", "updated": "2026-05-29T13:21:13+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tr0kk4/being_forced_to_choose_between_a_350_monthly_loss/ooke7oz/", "content": "I wouldn’t change the prices. If their workers are so desperate and low income, then they should bring their own bottles of water and snacks." }, { "id": "t1_oomdun8", "author": "/u/Alex_Nares", "updated": "2026-05-29T18:39:37+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tr0kk4/being_forced_to_choose_between_a_350_monthly_loss/oomdun8/", "content": "Charging $2.75 for a bottle of water is not predatory. I'm writing this post from my hotel lobby where they charge $10 for a 20oz Fiji water. No one is forcing anyone to buy anything; if someone does not agree with the price then just don't buy it and the seller makes no money.\n Never let anyone bully you into operating your business at a loss. Better to lose $500 moving the machines than to lose $350/month plus your time restocking the machines. (That's a loss of $4200/year plus labor)\n The way you described it, I doubt they will terminate your contact if "the workers depend on the machines", because then the workers would be totally deprived of water. (And seriously, what kind of employer doesn't provide water to workers? Pretty sure OSHA requires that...)\n Sounds like the supervisor was trying to be tough but it's probably not up to him whether your contract is terminated or not (and if it is, good riddance). You're not running a charity. You're better off moving your machines to another place where you're welcome and it's worth your time and investment.\n Or how about this? You can lower your prices if the supervisor or the company is willing to subsidize your loss. Maybe you can negotiate that. You can charge $1.25 for a bottle of water if the company will then pay you an additional $2.50 for each one sold. That way, you get your money's worth and the workers have low-cost water. If they aren't willing to do that, then bye.\n If I were you, I would also call the corporate office to make a complaint on the supervisor. That way they are hearing your side of the story instead of just the supervisors." } ] }, { "source": "r/passive_income top month", "id": "t3_1ts3wlk", "title": "My YouTube channel has 488,000 subscribers!", "author": "/u/AvailableHealth9927", "updated": "2026-05-30T16:05:53+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1ts3wlk/my_youtube_channel_has_488000_subscribers/", "content": "So, I have a YouTube channel called "HomeboySausage" that was essentially a content experiment where I utilized everything that I learned from the extensive research I did on the YT shorts algorithm and tried to execute it.\n Family members said no, I couldn't do it and my name was super suspect, I didn't care. Yes, I woke up and named my channel "HomeboySausage" I liked the name, I thought it was funny. I made a logo, color scheme (Purple + Black & White)\n My first initial short gained only 3,000 viewers and I gained almost 98+ (to 100+) subscribers and then before I knew it? 10,000 views, 15,000, 30,000 like I was honestly shocked, I had put hours & hours of research into understanding YouTube because I was constantly frustrated with my past YT failures.\n (Context: In the past I had a boxing commentary channel, my highest viewed video was around 45,000 & I had only 400 subscribers, but aside from that video, it struggled).\n Soon, I went insanely viral getting a 7.5 million viewed YT short, I went straight to my mom like— "OH SHOOT! MOM! LOOK! OH MY GOD!—" I was absolutely losing my mind, & I started getting sponsorship offers in my email. After that? Consistent, 300k, 400k, 800k, 1.1m shorts every single upload, including mutliple million viewed shorts. My subscribers went from, 1k, to 10k, 100k, to 400k+\n I got my YouTube plaque at 100,000 subscribers, something in my life that I had never expected.\n I was the first person in my entire family history to do this, like—, isn't that cool? I did something NEW, like this is awesome.\n In the background of my YT growth, I was making a YouTube course, which taught every literally thing that I utilized on my YouTube channel to grow it.\n Thumbnails? Titles? Algorithm tips? Why your YouTube video's sometimes get views & suddenly stop? I had an answer to all of it, and ultimately it got some attention.\n But, I wanted everybody to know to know about, including you guys.\n YouTube growth isn't easy, but it's definitely possible there were plenty or times where I almost gave up completely wondering why? Why no subs? Why no views? Just confused and frustrated, that's why I did this channel and that's why I videos teaching people exactly what I learned.\n For any of you guys who need it?\n Don't give up, and use those internal doubts as a motivational tool.\n submitted by /u/AvailableHealth9927\n [link] [comments]", "contentHtml": "
\"My

So, I have a YouTube channel called "HomeboySausage" that was essentially a content experiment where I utilized everything that I learned from the extensive research I did on the YT shorts algorithm and tried to execute it.

Family members said no, I couldn't do it and my name was super suspect, I didn't care. Yes, I woke up and named my channel "HomeboySausage" I liked the name, I thought it was funny. I made a logo, color scheme (Purple + Black & White)

My first initial short gained only 3,000 viewers and I gained almost 98+ (to 100+) subscribers and then before I knew it? 10,000 views, 15,000, 30,000 like I was honestly shocked, I had put hours & hours of research into understanding YouTube because I was constantly frustrated with my past YT failures.

(Context: In the past I had a boxing commentary channel, my highest viewed video was around 45,000 & I had only 400 subscribers, but aside from that video, it struggled).

Soon, I went insanely viral getting a 7.5 million viewed YT short, I went straight to my mom like— "OH SHOOT! MOM! LOOK! OH MY GOD!—" I was absolutely losing my mind, & I started getting sponsorship offers in my email. After that? Consistent, 300k, 400k, 800k, 1.1m shorts every single upload, including mutliple million viewed shorts. My subscribers went from, 1k, to 10k, 100k, to 400k+

I got my YouTube plaque at 100,000 subscribers, something in my life that I had never expected.

I was the first person in my entire family history to do this, like—, isn't that cool? I did something NEW, like this is awesome.

In the background of my YT growth, I was making a YouTube course, which taught every literally thing that I utilized on my YouTube channel to grow it.

Thumbnails? Titles? Algorithm tips? Why your YouTube video's sometimes get views & suddenly stop? I had an answer to all of it, and ultimately it got some attention.

But, I wanted everybody to know to know about, including you guys.

YouTube growth isn't easy, but it's definitely possible there were plenty or times where I almost gave up completely wondering why? Why no subs? Why no views? Just confused and frustrated, that's why I did this channel and that's why I videos teaching people exactly what I learned.

For any of you guys who need it?

Don't give up, and use those internal doubts as a motivational tool.

submitted by /u/AvailableHealth9927
[link] [comments]
", "comments": [ { "id": "t1_oos6tgq", "author": "/u/AutoModerator", "updated": "2026-05-30T16:05:55+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1ts3wlk/my_youtube_channel_has_488000_subscribers/oos6tgq/", "content": "Check out the Community Highlights for current and future Mod Vetted opportunities and Newsletter Episodes.\n Please do due diligence on any crypto opportunity. A simple google search could save you a fortune.\n I am a bot, and this action was performed automatically. Please contact the moderators of this subreddit if you have any questions or concerns." }, { "id": "t1_oosc4ai", "author": "/u/fuckyourdeadnan", "updated": "2026-05-30T16:31:53+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1ts3wlk/my_youtube_channel_has_488000_subscribers/oosc4ai/", "content": "17 million views? So you got about 1500$ for all that work?\n Sorry dude, I just don't see the point in doing short form when 300k views on a 30 minute video can make the same amount of money" }, { "id": "t1_oosgjhc", "author": "/u/AvailableHealth9927", "updated": "2026-05-30T16:53:10+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1ts3wlk/my_youtube_channel_has_488000_subscribers/oosgjhc/", "content": "No actually, this is an older screenshot, I got 20 million views by now, additionally I made 1,500+ from my most viral YT short alone, additionally we must take into account sponsorships & affiliate links." }, { "id": "t1_oosn8m1", "author": "/u/fuckyourdeadnan", "updated": "2026-05-30T17:24:33+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1ts3wlk/my_youtube_channel_has_488000_subscribers/oosn8m1/", "content": "Ok pogledao sam tvoj kanal upravo. Ne vidim gde su ti sponzori niti kapiram ko bi sponzorisao ovakav kontent, niti iskreno vidim mnogo potencijala za affiliate linkove. Takođe mi nije jasno ako je ovo toliko dobro krenulo zašto ti je zadnji klip iz 2024?\n Možda je moguće da imaš veću zaradu ako uploadujes klipove na TikTok isto, za to nisam mnogo istraživao pošto iskr mrzim tiktok. Izvini ako sam skeptičan ali već neko vreme grindujem jutjub i prosto ne vidim mnogo potencijala u ovakvom nekom stilu kontenta i više se cimam oko long forma. Voleo bi da mi dokažeš suprotno ali trenutno mi deluje kao da pišeš ovde samo da bi reklamirao svoj kurs ili šta već." }, { "id": "t1_oot1463", "author": "/u/tinytempo", "updated": "2026-05-30T18:30:00+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1ts3wlk/my_youtube_channel_has_488000_subscribers/oot1463/", "content": "Thanks, fuckyourdeadnan 🙏" }, { "id": "t1_oovt3si", "author": "/u/ImportantOne49", "updated": "2026-05-31T03:57:51+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1ts3wlk/my_youtube_channel_has_488000_subscribers/oovt3si/", "content": "Da bi monetize kanal isto moras imati 10 mil engaged views u zadnjih 90 dana, a on ima 20 mil (znaci da je i svaki drugi engaged view imao bi opet samo 10 mil u 2 godine?) ukupno od 2024? Nema smisla nikakvog sta prica haha." }, { "id": "t1_oot4iha", "author": "/u/AvailableHealth9927", "updated": "2026-05-30T18:46:57+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1ts3wlk/my_youtube_channel_has_488000_subscribers/oot4iha/", "content": "Yeah, I completely understand what you mean, but if you're a trendy channel regardless, people will wiblindly give you affiliate links even if your subject matter is essentially non-relevant, as their mantra is "all publicity is good publicity" I get continously bombarded with sponsorship emails every day.\n I regularly give tips on different social medias too, I have plenty of alt accounts." }, { "id": "t1_ooslua8", "author": "/u/Reliefavai", "updated": "2026-05-30T17:17:53+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1ts3wlk/my_youtube_channel_has_488000_subscribers/ooslua8/", "content": "If you did it to get people to your youtube course then a smart move! 100% there shoul dbe someone who gets it, cus you obv know how to do youtube. If only to boast then don't do that on reddit(just saying cus people are different) Congrats man!" }, { "id": "t1_oot5b3z", "author": "/u/AvailableHealth9927", "updated": "2026-05-30T18:50:42+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1ts3wlk/my_youtube_channel_has_488000_subscribers/oot5b3z/", "content": "Cause I plan on having new videos in there, video editing tips, etc.\n I wanted it to be much more interactive with my audience." }, { "id": "t1_oot7b5z", "author": "/u/PavleMash", "updated": "2026-05-30T19:00:47+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1ts3wlk/my_youtube_channel_has_488000_subscribers/oot7b5z/", "content": "That sounds awesome man I might even be interested. Keep it up fuck the haters" }, { "id": "t1_ootaavo", "author": "/u/AvailableHealth9927", "updated": "2026-05-30T19:14:03+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1ts3wlk/my_youtube_channel_has_488000_subscribers/ootaavo/", "content": "🫡 Thank you very much man, absolutely." }, { "id": "t1_oot53rz", "author": "/u/AvailableHealth9927", "updated": "2026-05-30T18:49:44+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1ts3wlk/my_youtube_channel_has_488000_subscribers/oot53rz/", "content": "Yeah, 🫡 I get it I just seriously want to help people man, that's all.\n I made this course in 2024 & I did sell this back then, I made, around 2,000$ too from it ironically through different social media platforms,\n But I decided to bring it back, as I THINK many should learn this. Plus instead of charging people $20 or so—, I just decided to do a free trial patreon." }, { "id": "t1_oosoiow", "author": "/u/ozaqi", "updated": "2026-05-30T17:30:24+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1ts3wlk/my_youtube_channel_has_488000_subscribers/oosoiow/", "content": "Greag another ai ad" }, { "id": "t1_ootpq57", "author": "/u/AvailableHealth9927", "updated": "2026-05-30T20:32:03+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1ts3wlk/my_youtube_channel_has_488000_subscribers/ootpq57/", "content": "Not ai, 🫡 authenticity." }, { "id": "t1_ootcbwd", "author": "/u/ThePenguinVA", "updated": "2026-05-30T19:23:49+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1ts3wlk/my_youtube_channel_has_488000_subscribers/ootcbwd/", "content": "It’s easy to buy subscribers" }, { "id": "t1_ootpnm9", "author": "/u/AvailableHealth9927", "updated": "2026-05-30T20:31:41+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1ts3wlk/my_youtube_channel_has_488000_subscribers/ootpnm9/", "content": "Don't ever direspect me like that I never bought my subscribers." }, { "id": "t1_oovxckj", "author": "/u/RealLifeCoaching", "updated": "2026-05-31T04:27:53+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1ts3wlk/my_youtube_channel_has_488000_subscribers/oovxckj/", "content": "You're on a passive income sub, boasting about an active income stream.\n You're entirely deserving of disrespect." }, { "id": "t1_oowial9", "author": "/u/AvailableHealth9927", "updated": "2026-05-31T07:19:01+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1ts3wlk/my_youtube_channel_has_488000_subscribers/oowial9/", "content": "🫡 I was asking if anybody was struggling with growing on YouTube, not bragging about passive income." }, { "id": "t1_op1oczj", "author": "/u/RealLifeCoaching", "updated": "2026-06-01T01:13:07+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1ts3wlk/my_youtube_channel_has_488000_subscribers/op1oczj/", "content": "Yes, I see that.\n What makes you think a sub about passive income is the right place for that discussion?" }, { "id": "t1_oou2s6k", "author": "/u/ThePenguinVA", "updated": "2026-05-30T21:41:06+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1ts3wlk/my_youtube_channel_has_488000_subscribers/oou2s6k/", "content": "lol" }, { "id": "t1_ootvwrj", "author": "/u/RevolutionarySeven7", "updated": "2026-05-30T21:04:16+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1ts3wlk/my_youtube_channel_has_488000_subscribers/ootvwrj/", "content": "its fake guys, OP sends a patreon link with "free courses", until the REAL information needed is behind a paywall." }, { "id": "t1_ootzuo4", "author": "/u/Vectrex71CH", "updated": "2026-05-30T21:25:12+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1ts3wlk/my_youtube_channel_has_488000_subscribers/ootzuo4/", "content": "I don't want to be rude (excuse me) but in my Personal opinion, your content is ...how can i say.... Anoying and boring. " Put your Finger down " ...over and over, often with the same Video as backround, wich has noting to do, with what the anoying AI voice said,wich we know allready from 137 Million other Channels. How is such a shit so successful? For me, this is another Evidence, that humanity is stupid. No offence . Don't take it personal! If it works for you, then congrats! But from my very personal standpoint, it should't work." }, { "id": "t1_ooy847e", "author": "/u/JONNYQUE5T", "updated": "2026-05-31T14:40:31+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1ts3wlk/my_youtube_channel_has_488000_subscribers/ooy847e/", "content": "I had a similar thought. It made me realize my threshold for what type of content I watch isn’t the same as everyone else’s." }, { "id": "t1_oov7pnn", "author": "/u/smatchimo", "updated": "2026-05-31T01:44:45+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1ts3wlk/my_youtube_channel_has_488000_subscribers/oov7pnn/", "content": "honestly at best you are putting up videos for children that will contribute nothing to society.\n you are part of a social media virus that has taken hold ever since vine and music.ly and eventually tik tok got popular; when people in foreign countries were finally able to get access to the internet with cheap phones.\n if I'm going to make a living it sure won't be providing content for these people.\n you should be shadow banned to the korean/indian youtube algorythms for life for your transgressions\n ironically my comments will only earn me downvotes by others thoroughly indoctrinated by the same sickness that plagues you 😛 have fun\n however if you are indeed a real person, as you are going to sleep tonight, seriously, ask yourself if you are really happy with your current goals to make some money like this" }, { "id": "t1_ooxn14z", "author": "/u/AvailableHealth9927", "updated": "2026-05-31T12:45:15+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1ts3wlk/my_youtube_channel_has_488000_subscribers/ooxn14z/", "content": "🫡 Keep up the hard & dedication on your YouTube channel, if you need any growing your channel, I made this specifically for you." }, { "id": "t1_oosgjou", "author": "/u/Aero_N_autical", "updated": "2026-05-30T16:53:11+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1ts3wlk/my_youtube_channel_has_488000_subscribers/oosgjou/", "content": "How much have you made all in all? Congrats man!" }, { "id": "t1_oosgul5", "author": "/u/AvailableHealth9927", "updated": "2026-05-30T16:54:35+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1ts3wlk/my_youtube_channel_has_488000_subscribers/oosgul5/", "content": "Its harder to earn on YT shorts, but on my most viewed video, I managed to hit around 2,000$ from my 7.7 million viewed video." }, { "id": "t1_oosu3to", "author": "/u/AustinDarko", "updated": "2026-05-30T17:56:44+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1ts3wlk/my_youtube_channel_has_488000_subscribers/oosu3to/", "content": "Holy crap that's low. You'd make more money working a trade job, still cool though as a fun hobby" }, { "id": "t1_ooswz64", "author": "/u/AvailableHealth9927", "updated": "2026-05-30T18:10:22+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1ts3wlk/my_youtube_channel_has_488000_subscribers/ooswz64/", "content": "I do work a both in-peron & online, I also do digital marketing on other social media plaforms, in total, I make about a few k's a month via digital marketing & selling women resell digital marketing courses." }, { "id": "t1_oosxd08", "author": "/u/AustinDarko", "updated": "2026-05-30T18:12:14+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1ts3wlk/my_youtube_channel_has_488000_subscribers/oosxd08/", "content": "Nice, just honestly thought content creators made more money is all. Sounds like you put in a lot of hours for not as much payout as you could. Liking your job is priceless though" }, { "id": "t1_oosxrc5", "author": "/u/AvailableHealth9927", "updated": "2026-05-30T18:14:08+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1ts3wlk/my_youtube_channel_has_488000_subscribers/oosxrc5/", "content": "They do, content creators make ALOT more, its just that I primarily did shorts content.\n But let's if you did YouTube tips or sports content (football) & long-form, you'd make alot more income.\n Me?\n I made that 2,200 just from one viral video, so its not as bad as you think." }, { "id": "t1_oosy3ch", "author": "/u/AustinDarko", "updated": "2026-05-30T18:15:45+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1ts3wlk/my_youtube_channel_has_488000_subscribers/oosy3ch/", "content": "Assuming you broke the average, and made it into the top 5% of content creators. Most will dedicate countless hours to never make minimum wage." }, { "id": "t1_oosyzzf", "author": "/u/AvailableHealth9927", "updated": "2026-05-30T18:20:10+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1ts3wlk/my_youtube_channel_has_488000_subscribers/oosyzzf/", "content": "Listen, don't think about that you must have a certain level of delusion and perfectionism to succeed.\n Treat your first video like a professional video and that you're already a big channel, you just emulate the editing styles of the TOP content creators within your niche." }, { "id": "t1_ooszb43", "author": "/u/AustinDarko", "updated": "2026-05-30T18:21:38+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1ts3wlk/my_youtube_channel_has_488000_subscribers/ooszb43/", "content": "And luck. Not everyone can be suggested by the algorithm or break the mold.\n I personally have no interest and own an IT company. It's cool that you've been able to get into it though." }, { "id": "t1_oot0jva", "author": "/u/AvailableHealth9927", "updated": "2026-05-30T18:27:24+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1ts3wlk/my_youtube_channel_has_488000_subscribers/oot0jva/", "content": "I respect that, and I appreciate your success man. I hope you get told that often.\n I understand what you mean, but ultimately my optimism is why I even managed to reach as far as I did on YouTube 🤷‍♂️. I was just a 19 year old kid in community college who wanted to try a YouTube Channel.\n But true, not everybody succeeds, but hey 🤷‍♂️.\n Also thanks, it's cool that you own an IT company." }, { "id": "t1_oosy5wh", "author": "/u/shayKyarbouti", "updated": "2026-05-30T18:16:06+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1ts3wlk/my_youtube_channel_has_488000_subscribers/oosy5wh/", "content": "The money is still on long form not shorts. Shorts get you the eyeballs but long form gets you paid" }, { "id": "t1_oosx7su", "author": "/u/AvailableHealth9927", "updated": "2026-05-30T18:11:32+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1ts3wlk/my_youtube_channel_has_488000_subscribers/oosx7su/", "content": "But yeah, I have a regular job, I just also make income from both content & digital marketing online, no biggie." }, { "id": "t1_oosplm1", "author": "/u/Spirited_Spell_3287", "updated": "2026-05-30T17:35:18+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1ts3wlk/my_youtube_channel_has_488000_subscribers/oosplm1/", "content": "Just out of curiosity how much have you made from the whole channel with everything.\n A rough ballpark would be fine if ur not comfortable sharing" }, { "id": "t1_oot0s2w", "author": "/u/OrganizationStill135", "updated": "2026-05-30T18:28:27+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1ts3wlk/my_youtube_channel_has_488000_subscribers/oot0s2w/", "content": "Put a finer down" }, { "id": "t1_oou1nvj", "author": "/u/TopTippityTop", "updated": "2026-05-30T21:34:57+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1ts3wlk/my_youtube_channel_has_488000_subscribers/oou1nvj/", "content": "Hey, good job!\n I have a few questions, if you don't mind. 1. How long did it take you from start until now? 2. What level of income are you able to bring in with ~500k subs?" }, { "id": "t1_ooukhjc", "author": "/u/Responsible_Life6272", "updated": "2026-05-30T23:22:37+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1ts3wlk/my_youtube_channel_has_488000_subscribers/ooukhjc/", "content": "Numbers are solid. What's the actual ad revenue breakdown?" }, { "id": "t1_oowelb1", "author": "/u/Flat-Refrigerator357", "updated": "2026-05-31T06:47:35+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1ts3wlk/my_youtube_channel_has_488000_subscribers/oowelb1/", "content": "What annoying content 😅 but good for you" }, { "id": "t1_ooxh93y", "author": "/u/Royal_Brain_9773", "updated": "2026-05-31T12:08:25+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1ts3wlk/my_youtube_channel_has_488000_subscribers/ooxh93y/", "content": "Put a finger up your ass." }, { "id": "t1_ooxizlv", "author": "/u/30DayThrill", "updated": "2026-05-31T12:19:45+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1ts3wlk/my_youtube_channel_has_488000_subscribers/ooxizlv/", "content": "Having a shorts channel with 500K is like being the fastest person at the special olympics" }, { "id": "t1_oozl5tb", "author": "/u/Lukeyboy5", "updated": "2026-05-31T18:31:47+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1ts3wlk/my_youtube_channel_has_488000_subscribers/oozl5tb/", "content": "Friendly reminder to people that anyone with half a mill genuine subscribers isn’t selling a course. They are making money through YouTube." }, { "id": "t1_op4hmk8", "author": "/u/Pepipasta", "updated": "2026-06-01T13:27:23+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1ts3wlk/my_youtube_channel_has_488000_subscribers/op4hmk8/", "content": "I don’t get the hate in the comments here.\n OP put in the work, and is (hopefully) getting rewarded for it.\n There’s a lot of bogus content out there on the internet, but regardless you have to look out for yourself and your own life. So I don’t understand the morality arguments I’m seeing on here\n Good stuff!" }, { "id": "t1_oosji9k", "author": "/u/Good-Elephant1189", "updated": "2026-05-30T17:06:47+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1ts3wlk/my_youtube_channel_has_488000_subscribers/oosji9k/", "content": "That’s awesome!" }, { "id": "t1_oosjkp8", "author": "/u/AvailableHealth9927", "updated": "2026-05-30T17:07:07+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1ts3wlk/my_youtube_channel_has_488000_subscribers/oosjkp8/", "content": "Thank you very much 🫡" }, { "id": "t1_oosni8x", "author": "/u/mayorwest5467", "updated": "2026-05-30T17:25:49+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1ts3wlk/my_youtube_channel_has_488000_subscribers/oosni8x/", "content": "You're doing great. All the best, man." }, { "id": "t1_oottska", "author": "/u/PitifulEconomics562", "updated": "2026-05-30T20:53:10+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1ts3wlk/my_youtube_channel_has_488000_subscribers/oottska/", "content": "Good job man! I’m genuinely impressed" }, { "id": "t1_ootuosi", "author": "/u/AvailableHealth9927", "updated": "2026-05-30T20:57:52+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1ts3wlk/my_youtube_channel_has_488000_subscribers/ootuosi/", "content": "Thank you 🫡" }, { "id": "t1_oov81g8", "author": "/u/Mother_Lead_554", "updated": "2026-05-31T01:46:49+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1ts3wlk/my_youtube_channel_has_488000_subscribers/oov81g8/", "content": "instead of AI slop and courses why not make actual content?" }, { "id": "t1_oosicyd", "author": "/u/Nanpanpadan", "updated": "2026-05-30T17:01:24+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1ts3wlk/my_youtube_channel_has_488000_subscribers/oosicyd/", "content": "no account named like this on youtube" }, { "id": "t1_oosjq6g", "author": "/u/longlivewrestling", "updated": "2026-05-30T17:07:50+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1ts3wlk/my_youtube_channel_has_488000_subscribers/oosjq6g/", "content": "Found the channel 48 videos, checking socialblade he’s gained and then lost 1k subs every day. Also channel has a link to a patreon for his get successful course" }, { "id": "t1_ootpjlu", "author": "/u/AvailableHealth9927", "updated": "2026-05-30T20:31:07+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1ts3wlk/my_youtube_channel_has_488000_subscribers/ootpjlu/", "content": "Yeah, it's a channel that I hadn't uploaded on in awhile that's why it's losing a few subscribers, however I do plan on returning soon.\n Plus, I additionally brought back my course, I sold my course back when I was active too, but I decided to bring it back." }, { "id": "t1_oosjfdd", "author": "/u/AvailableHealth9927", "updated": "2026-05-30T17:06:25+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1ts3wlk/my_youtube_channel_has_488000_subscribers/oosjfdd/", "content": "Yes there is, search it up." }, { "id": "t1_op00o1p", "author": "/u/Nanpanpadan", "updated": "2026-05-31T19:46:37+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1ts3wlk/my_youtube_channel_has_488000_subscribers/op00o1p/", "content": "I didn't find it, maybe be helpful and shoot your link? Jez" }, { "id": "t1_oosjzj3", "author": "/u/PictureOld8923", "updated": "2026-05-30T17:09:03+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1ts3wlk/my_youtube_channel_has_488000_subscribers/oosjzj3/", "content": "Lol I hate despicable people like you full of jealousy literally took a second to search up the account 😂" }, { "id": "t1_oosnkiy", "author": "/u/Isopropyl77", "updated": "2026-05-30T17:26:07+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1ts3wlk/my_youtube_channel_has_488000_subscribers/oosnkiy/", "content": "Why would you make such an easily debunkable statement? You just look silly." }, { "id": "t1_oot8k6m", "author": "/u/Isopropyl77", "updated": "2026-05-30T19:06:09+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1ts3wlk/my_youtube_channel_has_488000_subscribers/oot8k6m/", "content": "You come at me when you're the one calling other people liars?\n You're worse than looking silly." }, { "id": "t1_oot9wcn", "author": "/u/Nanpanpadan", "updated": "2026-05-30T19:12:11+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1ts3wlk/my_youtube_channel_has_488000_subscribers/oot9wcn/", "content": "Didnt' call anyone a liar, read my comment again.\n Now u seem like a fragile soul, so no, no one "came at you" because this is not even your post, typical main character syndrome." }, { "id": "t1_ootckbc", "author": "/u/Isopropyl77", "updated": "2026-05-30T19:24:58+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1ts3wlk/my_youtube_channel_has_488000_subscribers/ootckbc/", "content": "Oh, you came at me. Your comment has been deleted, so now you're the liar.\n And by falsely claiming OP's YouTube channel doesn't exist, you were most definitely calling OP a liar. You don't have to use those words to make that claim, and you certainly made that claim." } ] }, { "source": "r/passive_income top month", "id": "t3_1tpmq2p", "title": "I have 2-3 hours a day and a laptop what can i do?", "author": "/u/QuietDraw6607", "updated": "2026-05-27T23:46:28+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tpmq2p/i_have_23_hours_a_day_and_a_laptop_what_can_i_do/", "content": "I have like 3 hours a night where I sit on my phone and feel like im savy enough to start a business online, time passes anyways so i might as well do this instead of doom scroll. Im stuck on a few ideas and wanted to hear what reddit thought.\n I'd like something where I can see a return in 1-2 months.\n Where I think my advantages are :\n - Im a realtor currently, I can speak well, communicate, generate leads (but i do not want a lead generation business)\n - I can talk to anybody, I'm charming, extrovert, Very confident and keep a great mindset about life and everything in general.\n - Physically, Im very tall, attractive and in extremely good shape, Been training MMA for 4 years.\n submitted by /u/QuietDraw6607\n [link] [comments]", "contentHtml": "

I have like 3 hours a night where I sit on my phone and feel like im savy enough to start a business online, time passes anyways so i might as well do this instead of doom scroll. Im stuck on a few ideas and wanted to hear what reddit thought.

I'd like something where I can see a return in 1-2 months.

Where I think my advantages are :

- Im a realtor currently, I can speak well, communicate, generate leads (but i do not want a lead generation business)

- I can talk to anybody, I'm charming, extrovert, Very confident and keep a great mindset about life and everything in general.

- Physically, Im very tall, attractive and in extremely good shape, Been training MMA for 4 years.

submitted by /u/QuietDraw6607
[link] [comments]", "comments": [ { "id": "t1_oo9v70m", "author": "/u/AutoModerator", "updated": "2026-05-27T23:46:28+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tpmq2p/i_have_23_hours_a_day_and_a_laptop_what_can_i_do/oo9v70m/", "content": "Check out the Community Highlights for current and future Mod Vetted opportunities and Newsletter Episodes.\n Please do due diligence on any crypto opportunity. A simple google search could save you a fortune.\n I am a bot, and this action was performed automatically. Please contact the moderators of this subreddit if you have any questions or concerns." }, { "id": "t1_oo9weo7", "author": "/u/QuietDraw6607", "updated": "2026-05-27T23:53:08+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tpmq2p/i_have_23_hours_a_day_and_a_laptop_what_can_i_do/oo9weo7/", "content": "Right now My top choice is a newsletter business, I already do a newsletter for my real estate company so I think that would be good for small businesses. Running a weekly email for them about their deals, work recently done, new reviews, all that stuff" }, { "id": "t1_oobb56t", "author": "/u/Fit-Presentation-422", "updated": "2026-05-28T04:56:54+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tpmq2p/i_have_23_hours_a_day_and_a_laptop_what_can_i_do/oobb56t/", "content": "how u make money from this" }, { "id": "t1_oobxauq", "author": "/u/bam83_pts", "updated": "2026-05-28T07:53:49+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tpmq2p/i_have_23_hours_a_day_and_a_laptop_what_can_i_do/oobxauq/", "content": "Hey there, somewhat doing the same thing running a lead generation business for small businesses. A lot of grind work but as long as you know your way around the networking bussiness, you can definitely make good money." }, { "id": "t1_ooa0n7g", "author": "/u/Turbulent-Season-297", "updated": "2026-05-28T00:16:31+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tpmq2p/i_have_23_hours_a_day_and_a_laptop_what_can_i_do/ooa0n7g/", "content": "I know but a lead generation business might not be a bad idea with your experiences and you can make crazy money" }, { "id": "t1_ooabh0n", "author": "/u/QuietDraw6607", "updated": "2026-05-28T01:15:54+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tpmq2p/i_have_23_hours_a_day_and_a_laptop_what_can_i_do/ooabh0n/", "content": "how? what exactly do i do ?" }, { "id": "t1_ooba3dv", "author": "/u/Turbulent-Season-297", "updated": "2026-05-28T04:49:22+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tpmq2p/i_have_23_hours_a_day_and_a_laptop_what_can_i_do/ooba3dv/", "content": "In a basic understanding you find business or realtors high quality leads/potential clients to them and charge either per lead per appointment booked or like every 10 leads or something like that." }, { "id": "t1_oobifmp", "author": "/u/Fazioli31", "updated": "2026-05-28T05:51:57+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tpmq2p/i_have_23_hours_a_day_and_a_laptop_what_can_i_do/oobifmp/", "content": "You need network." }, { "id": "t1_ood41ct", "author": "/u/chefboogers", "updated": "2026-05-28T12:55:31+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tpmq2p/i_have_23_hours_a_day_and_a_laptop_what_can_i_do/ood41ct/", "content": "Isn’t that a realtors whole job? How would you even find the leads?" }, { "id": "t1_oodhby8", "author": "/u/Turbulent-Season-297", "updated": "2026-05-28T13:59:36+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tpmq2p/i_have_23_hours_a_day_and_a_laptop_what_can_i_do/oodhby8/", "content": "Add or sms" }, { "id": "t1_oog26x5", "author": "/u/Ornery_Marketing_719", "updated": "2026-05-28T20:50:30+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tpmq2p/i_have_23_hours_a_day_and_a_laptop_what_can_i_do/oog26x5/", "content": "[ Removed by Reddit ]" }, { "id": "t1_oobsybj", "author": "/u/CheesyPineConeFog", "updated": "2026-05-28T07:16:53+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tpmq2p/i_have_23_hours_a_day_and_a_laptop_what_can_i_do/oobsybj/", "content": "First off, get Claude and pay the $20/month. Use it as a business partner. Explain your ideas, what you're good at, why you think your ideas will work, how it thinks you could improve them, how you can market it, how you can set up your business. Everything.\n It can do research, it can help you plan next steps, it can draft an order of operations of stuff to get done to take you from zero to something.\n I'm doing this myself and have vetted enough of my business ideas and concepts that I've now filed to open a LLC in my state. I started from zero. I iterated my way through logo design, branding, website building, everything. I'm a 1 man business with the most powerful business partner in existence for only $20/month." }, { "id": "t1_ooc2n5n", "author": "/u/satansxlittlexhelper", "updated": "2026-05-28T08:40:02+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tpmq2p/i_have_23_hours_a_day_and_a_laptop_what_can_i_do/ooc2n5n/", "content": "Claude will also hallucinate and lie to you about the viability of your ideas. I wasted weeks working on projects that were flawed under independent examination but that Claude confidently assured me were innovative and brilliant." }, { "id": "t1_oocbr8g", "author": "/u/Bjorsa1", "updated": "2026-05-28T09:56:08+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tpmq2p/i_have_23_hours_a_day_and_a_laptop_what_can_i_do/oocbr8g/", "content": "Är det inte så med alla AI? Jag tycker det iallfall. Oavsett om det är Claude, Gemini eller Copilot... Alltid så självsäker, positiv och ska försöka övertala en till att det är en bra ide. Även om jag skulle föreslå att sälja bajs så skulle alla 3 säga - du kanske kan göra det lite mer premium, present ask eller en fin logga... Jag kan hjälpa dig med det, säg bara till!" }, { "id": "t1_oocd0ap", "author": "/u/Itry_Ifail_Itryagain", "updated": "2026-05-28T10:05:51+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tpmq2p/i_have_23_hours_a_day_and_a_laptop_what_can_i_do/oocd0ap/", "content": "https://giphy.com/gifs/XHeLeuirRbwptHhSWd" }, { "id": "t1_opfijdv", "author": "/u/anonymous_droid_", "updated": "2026-06-03T01:23:05+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tpmq2p/i_have_23_hours_a_day_and_a_laptop_what_can_i_do/opfijdv/", "content": "https://giphy.com/gifs/GpyS1lJXJYupG" }, { "id": "t1_oog9gg1", "author": "/u/Ambitious-Frame-7668", "updated": "2026-05-28T21:24:33+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tpmq2p/i_have_23_hours_a_day_and_a_laptop_what_can_i_do/oog9gg1/", "content": "Absolutely I ran my idea through claude chat manus gemini each one agreed with the other it was a brilliant idea . 2 months later I continued a chat with one of the bots and it asked my why I was doing this even told me it never said it was a good idea , i had to literally show it the chat to prove it .. said my bad ... and then each of them said yep bad idea. So proceed with caution" }, { "id": "t1_oog4mq3", "author": "/u/03alizzz", "updated": "2026-05-28T21:01:47+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tpmq2p/i_have_23_hours_a_day_and_a_laptop_what_can_i_do/oog4mq3/", "content": "Agree, I also tried this and it recommended I do web design based on my skills. Spend 4 weeks networking, cold calling etc but couldn't find a client. Obviously this wasn't Claude's fault but it was sure that it was foolproof method to target tradespeople on the UK who have no money lol so never want to pay 300 per month for a website( Claude's idea)." }, { "id": "t1_oofp3sd", "author": "/u/SweetRancidness", "updated": "2026-05-28T19:51:13+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tpmq2p/i_have_23_hours_a_day_and_a_laptop_what_can_i_do/oofp3sd/", "content": "Skill issue btw" }, { "id": "t1_oodi1ve", "author": "/u/CheesyPineConeFog", "updated": "2026-05-28T14:02:58+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tpmq2p/i_have_23_hours_a_day_and_a_laptop_what_can_i_do/oodi1ve/", "content": "Yeah but I've also fed it into GPT, Copilot and Gemini all getting slightly different variations of approvals.. I've worked with these enough that I can reduce hallucinations and it's always good to keep reaffieming your ideas and approaches." }, { "id": "t1_ooft6wz", "author": "/u/wysiwywg", "updated": "2026-05-28T20:09:36+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tpmq2p/i_have_23_hours_a_day_and_a_laptop_what_can_i_do/ooft6wz/", "content": "What type of business did you settle on?" }, { "id": "t1_oohqa6d", "author": "/u/CheesyPineConeFog", "updated": "2026-05-29T02:11:42+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tpmq2p/i_have_23_hours_a_day_and_a_laptop_what_can_i_do/oohqa6d/", "content": "I'm a software engineer, so I've got a multitude of ideas I've been thinking about I just needed a push. I think programmers all run into the side project problem: starting stuff and never finishing. But having Claude give me a plan on what to do and accomplish each week in bite sized chunks really got me over the hurdle of biting off more than I can chew and things to focus on initially and not get side tracked." }, { "id": "t1_oocecw4", "author": "/u/StreetsBehind21", "updated": "2026-05-28T10:16:14+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tpmq2p/i_have_23_hours_a_day_and_a_laptop_what_can_i_do/oocecw4/", "content": "I'm making $1,000 per month from logging into 50+ sites per day.\n It's a long explanation but super easy to do. I made a post recently and pinned it to the top of my profile with all explanations needed. It is USA only, but hope it helps!\n Incase it's easier, link here to the post with the full guide.\n https://www.reddit.com/u/StreetsBehind21/s/NUSFUSTMNQ" }, { "id": "t1_oogk16b", "author": "/u/Altruistic_Cut7376", "updated": "2026-05-28T22:16:53+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tpmq2p/i_have_23_hours_a_day_and_a_laptop_what_can_i_do/oogk16b/", "content": "This looks really interesting." }, { "id": "t1_oogkom9", "author": "/u/Altruistic_Cut7376", "updated": "2026-05-28T22:20:15+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tpmq2p/i_have_23_hours_a_day_and_a_laptop_what_can_i_do/oogkom9/", "content": "I tried the link and i got a popup that says unsafe to proceed. So, can you describe this $1,000 per month gig here, instead?" }, { "id": "t1_oogl69w", "author": "/u/StreetsBehind21", "updated": "2026-05-28T22:22:49+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tpmq2p/i_have_23_hours_a_day_and_a_laptop_what_can_i_do/oogl69w/", "content": "Unsafe to proceed? I mean it's labeled nsfw because it touches the world of gambling but it's just a reddit post" }, { "id": "t1_oogs9i7", "author": "/u/Weekly-Witness1129", "updated": "2026-05-28T23:00:51+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tpmq2p/i_have_23_hours_a_day_and_a_laptop_what_can_i_do/oogs9i7/", "content": "How long are you tied up for?" }, { "id": "t1_oogtwmz", "author": "/u/StreetsBehind21", "updated": "2026-05-28T23:09:44+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tpmq2p/i_have_23_hours_a_day_and_a_laptop_what_can_i_do/oogtwmz/", "content": "Like 10 minutes a day" }, { "id": "t1_ooafi9z", "author": "/u/Tweetgirl", "updated": "2026-05-28T01:39:00+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tpmq2p/i_have_23_hours_a_day_and_a_laptop_what_can_i_do/ooafi9z/", "content": "Create real estate websites for other realtors. You can use AI to do it. I do this for different industries and niches. Website flipping. I just flipped a site 2-3 weeks ago. I've seen real estate sites flip for $800 to $1,200 - brand new, unmonetized. You can make the site in an hour. You can scale this too." }, { "id": "t1_ooamq2l", "author": "/u/Altruistic_Cut7376", "updated": "2026-05-28T02:20:08+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tpmq2p/i_have_23_hours_a_day_and_a_laptop_what_can_i_do/ooamq2l/", "content": "Please describe your business model in more detail. I think it will also answer the original question about laptop and time." }, { "id": "t1_ooav60k", "author": "/u/Tweetgirl", "updated": "2026-05-28T03:09:58+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tpmq2p/i_have_23_hours_a_day_and_a_laptop_what_can_i_do/ooav60k/", "content": "I create niche websites with no code tools. I build them and sell on marketplaces. I've been doing this for 10yrs as a side hustle. Made around $30k last yr from it, from 7 website flips.\n Its flexible so you can do it in your spare time. You need a computer. Each site will run around $30 to $50 to make. It can earn up to $100/hr or more." }, { "id": "t1_oobgqqo", "author": "/u/ManyHippo3874", "updated": "2026-05-28T05:38:56+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tpmq2p/i_have_23_hours_a_day_and_a_laptop_what_can_i_do/oobgqqo/", "content": "How do you drive traffic to the sites? Surely the sites only have value if they traffic and income generated from them?" }, { "id": "t1_oobllw1", "author": "/u/Tweetgirl", "updated": "2026-05-28T06:17:06+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tpmq2p/i_have_23_hours_a_day_and_a_laptop_what_can_i_do/oobllw1/", "content": "Sites are valuable with no traffic, too. I sell no-traffic sites all the time. I sold one a few weeks ago. But, I do traffic-generating sites too. I usually start with SEO and social media. The traffic strategy varies, based on niche and audience." }, { "id": "t1_oob2er3", "author": "/u/Media-Tough", "updated": "2026-05-28T03:56:30+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tpmq2p/i_have_23_hours_a_day_and_a_laptop_what_can_i_do/oob2er3/", "content": "how did you market this? and what ai do you use for websites lovable??" }, { "id": "t1_oob7jxq", "author": "/u/Tweetgirl", "updated": "2026-05-28T04:31:32+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tpmq2p/i_have_23_hours_a_day_and_a_laptop_what_can_i_do/oob7jxq/", "content": "I don’t market. I use a marketplace to sell and they bring buyers. For starter sites. I do long term sites too and those I market in different ways, depending on niche and audience. You can do Lovable but I like 10Web" }, { "id": "t1_oobb451", "author": "/u/MarkoPilot", "updated": "2026-05-28T04:56:42+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tpmq2p/i_have_23_hours_a_day_and_a_laptop_what_can_i_do/oobb451/", "content": "could you share the name of the website/marketplace?" }, { "id": "t1_ooblho1", "author": "/u/Tweetgirl", "updated": "2026-05-28T06:16:10+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tpmq2p/i_have_23_hours_a_day_and_a_laptop_what_can_i_do/ooblho1/", "content": "There are many - I often go to Flippa" }, { "id": "t1_op1ln3b", "author": "/u/thereadereading", "updated": "2026-06-01T00:56:27+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tpmq2p/i_have_23_hours_a_day_and_a_laptop_what_can_i_do/op1ln3b/", "content": "Hi! Would you mind sending me a DM of this guide?" }, { "id": "t1_ooghvu4", "author": "/u/Altruistic_Cut7376", "updated": "2026-05-28T22:05:54+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tpmq2p/i_have_23_hours_a_day_and_a_laptop_what_can_i_do/ooghvu4/", "content": "Can you share with me your free guide?" }, { "id": "t1_oohwhwi", "author": "/u/Tweetgirl", "updated": "2026-05-29T02:46:58+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tpmq2p/i_have_23_hours_a_day_and_a_laptop_what_can_i_do/oohwhwi/", "content": "Yes" }, { "id": "t1_oohkgcc", "author": "", "updated": "2026-05-29T01:38:55+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tpmq2p/i_have_23_hours_a_day_and_a_laptop_what_can_i_do/oohkgcc/", "content": "[deleted]" }, { "id": "t1_oohw4pr", "author": "/u/Tweetgirl", "updated": "2026-05-29T02:44:50+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tpmq2p/i_have_23_hours_a_day_and_a_laptop_what_can_i_do/oohw4pr/", "content": "Yes" }, { "id": "t1_oosvqy8", "author": "/u/Consistent-Remote748", "updated": "2026-05-30T18:04:38+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tpmq2p/i_have_23_hours_a_day_and_a_laptop_what_can_i_do/oosvqy8/", "content": "Can you share the guide with me too please. Thanks in advance." }, { "id": "t1_oovvg18", "author": "/u/Tweetgirl", "updated": "2026-05-31T04:14:11+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tpmq2p/i_have_23_hours_a_day_and_a_laptop_what_can_i_do/oovvg18/", "content": "Yea" }, { "id": "t1_oobxfut", "author": "/u/RevolutionaryBuy7164", "updated": "2026-05-28T07:55:00+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tpmq2p/i_have_23_hours_a_day_and_a_laptop_what_can_i_do/oobxfut/", "content": "How learn to do this?" }, { "id": "t1_oobxkpa", "author": "/u/Tweetgirl", "updated": "2026-05-28T07:56:08+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tpmq2p/i_have_23_hours_a_day_and_a_laptop_what_can_i_do/oobxkpa/", "content": "I have a free guide..let me know if you want it" }, { "id": "t1_ooc18c9", "author": "/u/One_Pomegranate7208", "updated": "2026-05-28T08:27:43+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tpmq2p/i_have_23_hours_a_day_and_a_laptop_what_can_i_do/ooc18c9/", "content": "Hello mam i want the guide pls" }, { "id": "t1_ooc27qe", "author": "/u/Tweetgirl", "updated": "2026-05-28T08:36:18+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tpmq2p/i_have_23_hours_a_day_and_a_laptop_what_can_i_do/ooc27qe/", "content": "Ok" }, { "id": "t1_ooc2q02", "author": "/u/Ashamed_Key_4918", "updated": "2026-05-28T08:40:43+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tpmq2p/i_have_23_hours_a_day_and_a_laptop_what_can_i_do/ooc2q02/", "content": "Hello mam, can i have the guide too, please :D" }, { "id": "t1_oodkgfn", "author": "/u/Tweetgirl", "updated": "2026-05-28T14:14:06+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tpmq2p/i_have_23_hours_a_day_and_a_laptop_what_can_i_do/oodkgfn/", "content": "Yes" }, { "id": "t1_oodqxre", "author": "/u/9684prettyinpink9694", "updated": "2026-05-28T14:43:31+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tpmq2p/i_have_23_hours_a_day_and_a_laptop_what_can_i_do/oodqxre/", "content": "I'd love the guide too, if you don't mind 😊" }, { "id": "t1_oofupe1", "author": "/u/Tweetgirl", "updated": "2026-05-28T20:16:26+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tpmq2p/i_have_23_hours_a_day_and_a_laptop_what_can_i_do/oofupe1/", "content": "ok" }, { "id": "t1_ooger2h", "author": "", "updated": "2026-05-28T21:50:14+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tpmq2p/i_have_23_hours_a_day_and_a_laptop_what_can_i_do/ooger2h/", "content": "[deleted]" }, { "id": "t1_ooh4ukk", "author": "/u/greenseablue", "updated": "2026-05-29T00:10:41+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tpmq2p/i_have_23_hours_a_day_and_a_laptop_what_can_i_do/ooh4ukk/", "content": "Would love the free guide pls!" }, { "id": "t1_op0a84s", "author": "/u/No_Interview_1318", "updated": "2026-05-31T20:33:19+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tpmq2p/i_have_23_hours_a_day_and_a_laptop_what_can_i_do/op0a84s/", "content": "I want the guid pls and thank you" }, { "id": "t1_oochjbu", "author": "/u/JupiterMoon17", "updated": "2026-05-28T10:39:55+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tpmq2p/i_have_23_hours_a_day_and_a_laptop_what_can_i_do/oochjbu/", "content": "I would like the free guide too please. I’m a beginning freelance web designer and it would be helpful." }, { "id": "t1_oodk81s", "author": "/u/Tweetgirl", "updated": "2026-05-28T14:13:01+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tpmq2p/i_have_23_hours_a_day_and_a_laptop_what_can_i_do/oodk81s/", "content": "Sure" }, { "id": "t1_oocijas", "author": "/u/GuaranteeUnlikely725", "updated": "2026-05-28T10:46:56+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tpmq2p/i_have_23_hours_a_day_and_a_laptop_what_can_i_do/oocijas/", "content": "I'd like a free guide, tnks" }, { "id": "t1_oodk5r0", "author": "/u/Tweetgirl", "updated": "2026-05-28T14:12:44+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tpmq2p/i_have_23_hours_a_day_and_a_laptop_what_can_i_do/oodk5r0/", "content": "Ok" }, { "id": "t1_oocmpq1", "author": "/u/AnAimlessNomad", "updated": "2026-05-28T11:14:54+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tpmq2p/i_have_23_hours_a_day_and_a_laptop_what_can_i_do/oocmpq1/", "content": "Would you mind sending me the guide too? Thanks!" }, { "id": "t1_oodjyr7", "author": "/u/Tweetgirl", "updated": "2026-05-28T14:11:50+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tpmq2p/i_have_23_hours_a_day_and_a_laptop_what_can_i_do/oodjyr7/", "content": "Ok" }, { "id": "t1_oodpg06", "author": "/u/Upper_Swordfish6811", "updated": "2026-05-28T14:36:46+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tpmq2p/i_have_23_hours_a_day_and_a_laptop_what_can_i_do/oodpg06/", "content": "hi can i have the guide pls" }, { "id": "t1_oodpp5y", "author": "/u/Tweetgirl", "updated": "2026-05-28T14:37:55+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tpmq2p/i_have_23_hours_a_day_and_a_laptop_what_can_i_do/oodpp5y/", "content": "Ok" }, { "id": "t1_oodskun", "author": "/u/multipoopfuck", "updated": "2026-05-28T14:50:56+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tpmq2p/i_have_23_hours_a_day_and_a_laptop_what_can_i_do/oodskun/", "content": "A guide would be awesome 🙏🙏" }, { "id": "t1_oofulw5", "author": "/u/Tweetgirl", "updated": "2026-05-28T20:16:00+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tpmq2p/i_have_23_hours_a_day_and_a_laptop_what_can_i_do/oofulw5/", "content": "ok" }, { "id": "t1_oowwqoz", "author": "/u/Ok_Storm9130", "updated": "2026-05-31T09:26:47+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tpmq2p/i_have_23_hours_a_day_and_a_laptop_what_can_i_do/oowwqoz/", "content": "Can I get a free guide too? Can I dm?" }, { "id": "t1_op1a5wl", "author": "/u/Tweetgirl", "updated": "2026-05-31T23:46:40+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tpmq2p/i_have_23_hours_a_day_and_a_laptop_what_can_i_do/op1a5wl/", "content": "yes" }, { "id": "t1_oodvu0d", "author": "/u/ShodanLieu", "updated": "2026-05-28T15:05:23+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tpmq2p/i_have_23_hours_a_day_and_a_laptop_what_can_i_do/oodvu0d/", "content": "I’d appreciate a chance to read your free guide if you are still sharing." }, { "id": "t1_oohxqjb", "author": "/u/Tweetgirl", "updated": "2026-05-29T02:54:17+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tpmq2p/i_have_23_hours_a_day_and_a_laptop_what_can_i_do/oohxqjb/", "content": "Ok" }, { "id": "t1_oodvzr0", "author": "/u/Jyoona", "updated": "2026-05-28T15:06:06+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tpmq2p/i_have_23_hours_a_day_and_a_laptop_what_can_i_do/oodvzr0/", "content": "May i please have the guide as well? 🙏" }, { "id": "t1_oofu8oz", "author": "/u/Tweetgirl", "updated": "2026-05-28T20:14:20+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tpmq2p/i_have_23_hours_a_day_and_a_laptop_what_can_i_do/oofu8oz/", "content": "yes" }, { "id": "t1_ooe6ex0", "author": "/u/ladyjane626", "updated": "2026-05-28T15:51:26+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tpmq2p/i_have_23_hours_a_day_and_a_laptop_what_can_i_do/ooe6ex0/", "content": "Interested :)" }, { "id": "t1_oohxagc", "author": "/u/Tweetgirl", "updated": "2026-05-29T02:51:38+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tpmq2p/i_have_23_hours_a_day_and_a_laptop_what_can_i_do/oohxagc/", "content": "Ok" }, { "id": "t1_ooflvta", "author": "/u/Nothin-on-the-telly", "updated": "2026-05-28T19:36:44+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tpmq2p/i_have_23_hours_a_day_and_a_laptop_what_can_i_do/ooflvta/", "content": "May I be cheeky and ask for the free guide too, please?" }, { "id": "t1_ooft71r", "author": "/u/Tweetgirl", "updated": "2026-05-28T20:09:37+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tpmq2p/i_have_23_hours_a_day_and_a_laptop_what_can_i_do/ooft71r/", "content": "sure" }, { "id": "t1_oog7cjc", "author": "/u/c_squiggle", "updated": "2026-05-28T21:14:33+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tpmq2p/i_have_23_hours_a_day_and_a_laptop_what_can_i_do/oog7cjc/", "content": "Hello would you be so kind as to send me the guide as well?" }, { "id": "t1_oogcl4g", "author": "/u/Tweetgirl", "updated": "2026-05-28T21:39:40+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tpmq2p/i_have_23_hours_a_day_and_a_laptop_what_can_i_do/oogcl4g/", "content": "sure" }, { "id": "t1_ooh3m3h", "author": "/u/CSalty_", "updated": "2026-05-29T00:03:37+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tpmq2p/i_have_23_hours_a_day_and_a_laptop_what_can_i_do/ooh3m3h/", "content": "I would be interested in this guide please and thank you." }, { "id": "t1_oohwfl8", "author": "/u/Tweetgirl", "updated": "2026-05-29T02:46:35+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tpmq2p/i_have_23_hours_a_day_and_a_laptop_what_can_i_do/oohwfl8/", "content": "Sure" }, { "id": "t1_oohxfr7", "author": "/u/c_ing", "updated": "2026-05-29T02:52:30+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tpmq2p/i_have_23_hours_a_day_and_a_laptop_what_can_i_do/oohxfr7/", "content": "I'd like the free guide please 🙏" }, { "id": "t1_ooiqt80", "author": "/u/ja__bro", "updated": "2026-05-29T06:18:08+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tpmq2p/i_have_23_hours_a_day_and_a_laptop_what_can_i_do/ooiqt80/", "content": "Hi can i have the guide please" }, { "id": "t1_ooluccx", "author": "/u/Tweetgirl", "updated": "2026-05-29T17:14:39+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tpmq2p/i_have_23_hours_a_day_and_a_laptop_what_can_i_do/ooluccx/", "content": "sure" }, { "id": "t1_ookc38s", "author": "/u/Informal-Machine-598", "updated": "2026-05-29T13:10:51+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tpmq2p/i_have_23_hours_a_day_and_a_laptop_what_can_i_do/ookc38s/", "content": "i want guide pleees" }, { "id": "t1_oolu3yh", "author": "/u/Tweetgirl", "updated": "2026-05-29T17:13:39+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tpmq2p/i_have_23_hours_a_day_and_a_laptop_what_can_i_do/oolu3yh/", "content": "ok" }, { "id": "t1_ookm2au", "author": "/u/muhammadmaaz18", "updated": "2026-05-29T13:58:52+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tpmq2p/i_have_23_hours_a_day_and_a_laptop_what_can_i_do/ookm2au/", "content": "Can I have one please?" }, { "id": "t1_ool8uhk", "author": "/u/Tweetgirl", "updated": "2026-05-29T15:40:58+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tpmq2p/i_have_23_hours_a_day_and_a_laptop_what_can_i_do/ool8uhk/", "content": "yes" }, { "id": "t1_oodvrm1", "author": "/u/Dangerous_Walrus_263", "updated": "2026-05-28T15:05:06+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tpmq2p/i_have_23_hours_a_day_and_a_laptop_what_can_i_do/oodvrm1/", "content": "Hey would you mind sharing the guide with me too?" }, { "id": "t1_oofucka", "author": "/u/Tweetgirl", "updated": "2026-05-28T20:14:49+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tpmq2p/i_have_23_hours_a_day_and_a_laptop_what_can_i_do/oofucka/", "content": "ok" }, { "id": "t1_ooekxm4", "author": "/u/silverserpent44", "updated": "2026-05-28T16:54:31+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tpmq2p/i_have_23_hours_a_day_and_a_laptop_what_can_i_do/ooekxm4/", "content": "Can you send me a guide too?" }, { "id": "t1_oohx8gr", "author": "/u/Tweetgirl", "updated": "2026-05-29T02:51:18+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tpmq2p/i_have_23_hours_a_day_and_a_laptop_what_can_i_do/oohx8gr/", "content": "Sure" }, { "id": "t1_oohzff5", "author": "/u/Independent_Egg7809", "updated": "2026-05-29T03:04:34+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tpmq2p/i_have_23_hours_a_day_and_a_laptop_what_can_i_do/oohzff5/", "content": "Can I get the free guide as well please?" }, { "id": "t1_ooluqix", "author": "/u/Tweetgirl", "updated": "2026-05-29T17:16:22+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tpmq2p/i_have_23_hours_a_day_and_a_laptop_what_can_i_do/ooluqix/", "content": "sure" }, { "id": "t1_ooi4fbr", "author": "/u/Afraid-Evidence6984", "updated": "2026-05-29T03:36:13+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tpmq2p/i_have_23_hours_a_day_and_a_laptop_what_can_i_do/ooi4fbr/", "content": "Could you send me the guide too, please?" }, { "id": "t1_ooluo0s", "author": "/u/Tweetgirl", "updated": "2026-05-29T17:16:04+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tpmq2p/i_have_23_hours_a_day_and_a_laptop_what_can_i_do/ooluo0s/", "content": "yes" }, { "id": "t1_oon3arj", "author": "/u/BarRepresentative800", "updated": "2026-05-29T20:36:53+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tpmq2p/i_have_23_hours_a_day_and_a_laptop_what_can_i_do/oon3arj/", "content": "Please send me the guide, thanks a million!" }, { "id": "t1_oovvtxv", "author": "/u/Tweetgirl", "updated": "2026-05-31T04:16:54+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tpmq2p/i_have_23_hours_a_day_and_a_laptop_what_can_i_do/oovvtxv/", "content": "Ok" }, { "id": "t1_ooi9x3p", "author": "/u/Droy-333", "updated": "2026-05-29T04:12:31+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tpmq2p/i_have_23_hours_a_day_and_a_laptop_what_can_i_do/ooi9x3p/", "content": "Send me the guide please" }, { "id": "t1_ooik7sk", "author": "/u/Tweetgirl", "updated": "2026-05-29T05:26:31+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tpmq2p/i_have_23_hours_a_day_and_a_laptop_what_can_i_do/ooik7sk/", "content": "sure" }, { "id": "t1_ooiyu8l", "author": "/u/Main-Telephone6520", "updated": "2026-05-29T07:23:43+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tpmq2p/i_have_23_hours_a_day_and_a_laptop_what_can_i_do/ooiyu8l/", "content": "Could I also get that guide too? 😇😇" }, { "id": "t1_oolu7so", "author": "/u/Tweetgirl", "updated": "2026-05-29T17:14:06+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tpmq2p/i_have_23_hours_a_day_and_a_laptop_what_can_i_do/oolu7so/", "content": "yes" }, { "id": "t1_ook9mtr", "author": "/u/sleezycheesee", "updated": "2026-05-29T12:58:23+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tpmq2p/i_have_23_hours_a_day_and_a_laptop_what_can_i_do/ook9mtr/", "content": "can i please get a guide 🙏" }, { "id": "t1_oolu0wc", "author": "/u/Tweetgirl", "updated": "2026-05-29T17:13:16+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tpmq2p/i_have_23_hours_a_day_and_a_laptop_what_can_i_do/oolu0wc/", "content": "yes" }, { "id": "t1_oomdwiv", "author": "/u/pettylitigation", "updated": "2026-05-29T18:39:51+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tpmq2p/i_have_23_hours_a_day_and_a_laptop_what_can_i_do/oomdwiv/", "content": "Would also love the free guide!" }, { "id": "t1_oomm6n8", "author": "/u/Tweetgirl", "updated": "2026-05-29T19:17:28+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tpmq2p/i_have_23_hours_a_day_and_a_laptop_what_can_i_do/oomm6n8/", "content": "sure" }, { "id": "t1_oon2b2g", "author": "/u/bastos9779", "updated": "2026-05-29T20:32:09+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tpmq2p/i_have_23_hours_a_day_and_a_laptop_what_can_i_do/oon2b2g/", "content": "Can I have the free guide please ?" }, { "id": "t1_oovvvnl", "author": "/u/Tweetgirl", "updated": "2026-05-31T04:17:15+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tpmq2p/i_have_23_hours_a_day_and_a_laptop_what_can_i_do/oovvvnl/", "content": "Yes" }, { "id": "t1_oonwu4k", "author": "/u/FlashyAd31", "updated": "2026-05-29T23:08:35+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tpmq2p/i_have_23_hours_a_day_and_a_laptop_what_can_i_do/oonwu4k/", "content": "guide pls" }, { "id": "t1_oovvrpo", "author": "/u/Tweetgirl", "updated": "2026-05-31T04:16:28+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tpmq2p/i_have_23_hours_a_day_and_a_laptop_what_can_i_do/oovvrpo/", "content": "Sent" }, { "id": "t1_oorcm94", "author": "/u/warren_peace_1867", "updated": "2026-05-30T13:32:27+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tpmq2p/i_have_23_hours_a_day_and_a_laptop_what_can_i_do/oorcm94/", "content": "I'd like a guide, thanks" }, { "id": "t1_oovvpmv", "author": "/u/Tweetgirl", "updated": "2026-05-31T04:16:04+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tpmq2p/i_have_23_hours_a_day_and_a_laptop_what_can_i_do/oovvpmv/", "content": "Sure" }, { "id": "t1_oot0evb", "author": "/u/IbraYung", "updated": "2026-05-30T18:26:47+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tpmq2p/i_have_23_hours_a_day_and_a_laptop_what_can_i_do/oot0evb/", "content": "May I have the guide aswell please" }, { "id": "t1_oovvejk", "author": "/u/Tweetgirl", "updated": "2026-05-31T04:13:53+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tpmq2p/i_have_23_hours_a_day_and_a_laptop_what_can_i_do/oovvejk/", "content": "Yes" }, { "id": "t1_oouykko", "author": "/u/benelpa", "updated": "2026-05-31T00:48:43+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tpmq2p/i_have_23_hours_a_day_and_a_laptop_what_can_i_do/oouykko/", "content": "Hi can I have the guide please" }, { "id": "t1_oovvbib", "author": "/u/Tweetgirl", "updated": "2026-05-31T04:13:17+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tpmq2p/i_have_23_hours_a_day_and_a_laptop_what_can_i_do/oovvbib/", "content": "Yes" }, { "id": "t1_ooxh1c9", "author": "/u/BitRevolutionary9067", "updated": "2026-05-31T12:06:58+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tpmq2p/i_have_23_hours_a_day_and_a_laptop_what_can_i_do/ooxh1c9/", "content": "Please send me the guide also." }, { "id": "t1_op1a2el", "author": "/u/Tweetgirl", "updated": "2026-05-31T23:46:06+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tpmq2p/i_have_23_hours_a_day_and_a_laptop_what_can_i_do/op1a2el/", "content": "sure" }, { "id": "t1_ooycbmn", "author": "/u/Historical_Ask8213", "updated": "2026-05-31T15:01:14+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tpmq2p/i_have_23_hours_a_day_and_a_laptop_what_can_i_do/ooycbmn/", "content": "Could I get the guide for this" }, { "id": "t1_ooz54pm", "author": "/u/Tweetgirl", "updated": "2026-05-31T17:17:36+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tpmq2p/i_have_23_hours_a_day_and_a_laptop_what_can_i_do/ooz54pm/", "content": "yes, of course" }, { "id": "t1_op2uwqr", "author": "/u/Efficient-Respond-60", "updated": "2026-06-01T06:10:09+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tpmq2p/i_have_23_hours_a_day_and_a_laptop_what_can_i_do/op2uwqr/", "content": "I would also love to read the guide to understand this better. Many thanks!" }, { "id": "t1_opggd7d", "author": "/u/Tweetgirl", "updated": "2026-06-03T04:56:08+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tpmq2p/i_have_23_hours_a_day_and_a_laptop_what_can_i_do/opggd7d/", "content": "sure" }, { "id": "t1_op316lv", "author": "/u/East-sbfyc-1502", "updated": "2026-06-01T07:03:35+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tpmq2p/i_have_23_hours_a_day_and_a_laptop_what_can_i_do/op316lv/", "content": "Please send me the guide also." }, { "id": "t1_opgg5xy", "author": "/u/Tweetgirl", "updated": "2026-06-03T04:54:41+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tpmq2p/i_have_23_hours_a_day_and_a_laptop_what_can_i_do/opgg5xy/", "content": "sure" }, { "id": "t1_oobsw6d", "author": "/u/Embarrassed-Dot9125", "updated": "2026-05-28T07:16:24+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tpmq2p/i_have_23_hours_a_day_and_a_laptop_what_can_i_do/oobsw6d/", "content": "What you're trying to say is that I tell a client that I can design your website more professionally and luxuriously and you pay me on that basis. I think ? Because there is no extra cost like server deployment and domain exp etc" }, { "id": "t1_oobsfyv", "author": "/u/ResponsibleHabit645", "updated": "2026-05-28T07:12:38+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tpmq2p/i_have_23_hours_a_day_and_a_laptop_what_can_i_do/oobsfyv/", "content": "I have a print on demand business idea tried and tested if you want. Not instant money or crazy money but yeah slowly and steadily it can become something" }, { "id": "t1_ood74g6", "author": "/u/Trappedinacar", "updated": "2026-05-28T13:11:03+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tpmq2p/i_have_23_hours_a_day_and_a_laptop_what_can_i_do/ood74g6/", "content": "Can you give more info on this?" }, { "id": "t1_ood7go8", "author": "/u/ResponsibleHabit645", "updated": "2026-05-28T13:12:44+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tpmq2p/i_have_23_hours_a_day_and_a_laptop_what_can_i_do/ood7go8/", "content": "Dm" }, { "id": "t1_ooloeax", "author": "/u/ResponsibleHabit645", "updated": "2026-05-29T16:48:57+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tpmq2p/i_have_23_hours_a_day_and_a_laptop_what_can_i_do/ooloeax/", "content": "As I can see so many people have reached out to me but no body cared to reply after I explained them . So if you just wanted to gain knowledge then why bother me ? When you can't action on it ?\n Please serious people only reach out to me. My time has a value to. I'm all in to guide you guys but if you are not caring to even reply then what I can say" }, { "id": "t1_op8gqos", "author": "/u/petuniabegonia", "updated": "2026-06-02T01:17:09+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tpmq2p/i_have_23_hours_a_day_and_a_laptop_what_can_i_do/op8gqos/", "content": "Could I please get more info too? I’m interested" }, { "id": "t1_op8xp8y", "author": "/u/ResponsibleHabit645", "updated": "2026-06-02T03:00:37+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tpmq2p/i_have_23_hours_a_day_and_a_laptop_what_can_i_do/op8xp8y/", "content": "Dm" }, { "id": "t1_ood9rzb", "author": "/u/FredsterTheGamer", "updated": "2026-05-28T13:24:04+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tpmq2p/i_have_23_hours_a_day_and_a_laptop_what_can_i_do/ood9rzb/", "content": "Could you DM me as well? Thank you very much" }, { "id": "t1_ooddfcb", "author": "/u/ResponsibleHabit645", "updated": "2026-05-28T13:41:32+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tpmq2p/i_have_23_hours_a_day_and_a_laptop_what_can_i_do/ooddfcb/", "content": "You gotta dm pal my dms are full sorry :)" }, { "id": "t1_ooduw72", "author": "/u/bobbyb50001", "updated": "2026-05-28T15:01:11+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tpmq2p/i_have_23_hours_a_day_and_a_laptop_what_can_i_do/ooduw72/", "content": "Hi I dm’d you too" }, { "id": "t1_oodwy5t", "author": "/u/ResponsibleHabit645", "updated": "2026-05-28T15:10:20+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tpmq2p/i_have_23_hours_a_day_and_a_laptop_what_can_i_do/oodwy5t/", "content": "Got you" }, { "id": "t1_oodyhyi", "author": "/u/Selenphiel", "updated": "2026-05-28T15:17:05+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tpmq2p/i_have_23_hours_a_day_and_a_laptop_what_can_i_do/oodyhyi/", "content": "Could I please get more info on it? Thank you!" }, { "id": "t1_oodz3m5", "author": "/u/ResponsibleHabit645", "updated": "2026-05-28T15:19:41+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tpmq2p/i_have_23_hours_a_day_and_a_laptop_what_can_i_do/oodz3m5/", "content": "Dm" }, { "id": "t1_ooemuol", "author": "/u/SleepInfinite625", "updated": "2026-05-28T17:02:43+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tpmq2p/i_have_23_hours_a_day_and_a_laptop_what_can_i_do/ooemuol/", "content": "Could I also get info on this too please?" }, { "id": "t1_ooff8o5", "author": "/u/ErmSayHi", "updated": "2026-05-28T19:06:48+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tpmq2p/i_have_23_hours_a_day_and_a_laptop_what_can_i_do/ooff8o5/", "content": "：dm pls" }, { "id": "t1_oofgzmy", "author": "/u/Visible-Ad9327", "updated": "2026-05-28T19:14:40+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tpmq2p/i_have_23_hours_a_day_and_a_laptop_what_can_i_do/oofgzmy/", "content": "Can I get info on this please. Dm'd you." }, { "id": "t1_oofsvfa", "author": "/u/okieash", "updated": "2026-05-28T20:08:10+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tpmq2p/i_have_23_hours_a_day_and_a_laptop_what_can_i_do/oofsvfa/", "content": "If I’m not too late to the party, may I dm you as well?" }, { "id": "t1_ooft22j", "author": "/u/wysiwywg", "updated": "2026-05-28T20:09:00+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tpmq2p/i_have_23_hours_a_day_and_a_laptop_what_can_i_do/ooft22j/", "content": "Dmmd" }, { "id": "t1_oohkjd3", "author": "/u/Numerous_Hand663", "updated": "2026-05-29T01:39:23+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tpmq2p/i_have_23_hours_a_day_and_a_laptop_what_can_i_do/oohkjd3/", "content": "Hi, I DM'd you" }, { "id": "t1_ooiam6f", "author": "/u/GlitteringSummer6196", "updated": "2026-05-29T04:17:13+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tpmq2p/i_have_23_hours_a_day_and_a_laptop_what_can_i_do/ooiam6f/", "content": "Can you DM me?" }, { "id": "t1_ooidszx", "author": "/u/Alternative-Guava967", "updated": "2026-05-29T04:39:29+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tpmq2p/i_have_23_hours_a_day_and_a_laptop_what_can_i_do/ooidszx/", "content": "Can you dm me please?" }, { "id": "t1_oojkrbf", "author": "/u/mkoz55", "updated": "2026-05-29T10:26:57+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tpmq2p/i_have_23_hours_a_day_and_a_laptop_what_can_i_do/oojkrbf/", "content": "I’ve been interested in getting into this. Can you DM me?" }, { "id": "t1_oojt5c5", "author": "/u/zenndaR", "updated": "2026-05-29T11:24:27+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tpmq2p/i_have_23_hours_a_day_and_a_laptop_what_can_i_do/oojt5c5/", "content": "Dm me as well. Ty." }, { "id": "t1_ookxrhq", "author": "/u/Cha_Mango", "updated": "2026-05-29T14:52:01+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tpmq2p/i_have_23_hours_a_day_and_a_laptop_what_can_i_do/ookxrhq/", "content": "Can I pls have a dm" }, { "id": "t1_oomnahf", "author": "/u/Sad_Conversation3511", "updated": "2026-05-29T19:22:35+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tpmq2p/i_have_23_hours_a_day_and_a_laptop_what_can_i_do/oomnahf/", "content": "Hi please can I dm you" }, { "id": "t1_ooztwmb", "author": "/u/likeapr4yer", "updated": "2026-05-31T19:13:20+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tpmq2p/i_have_23_hours_a_day_and_a_laptop_what_can_i_do/ooztwmb/", "content": "Hi! I dmed you!" }, { "id": "t1_oozwiza", "author": "/u/ResponsibleHabit645", "updated": "2026-05-31T19:26:02+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tpmq2p/i_have_23_hours_a_day_and_a_laptop_what_can_i_do/oozwiza/", "content": "You have discord?" }, { "id": "t1_oozwks7", "author": "/u/ResponsibleHabit645", "updated": "2026-05-31T19:26:17+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tpmq2p/i_have_23_hours_a_day_and_a_laptop_what_can_i_do/oozwks7/", "content": "Directly connect me there from the profile link" }, { "id": "t1_op09s2i", "author": "/u/No_Interview_1318", "updated": "2026-05-31T20:31:07+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tpmq2p/i_have_23_hours_a_day_and_a_laptop_what_can_i_do/op09s2i/", "content": "Can I get info on this please I’m really interested" }, { "id": "t1_op0as5t", "author": "/u/ResponsibleHabit645", "updated": "2026-05-31T20:36:05+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tpmq2p/i_have_23_hours_a_day_and_a_laptop_what_can_i_do/op0as5t/", "content": "Discord" }, { "id": "t1_oocr6qr", "author": "/u/No-Conflict4539", "updated": "2026-05-28T11:43:26+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tpmq2p/i_have_23_hours_a_day_and_a_laptop_what_can_i_do/oocr6qr/", "content": "So I've been experimenting with AI tools for the last month. Started with simple stuff but what actually clicked was learning how to use model sheets and reference images to keep characters consistent. Takes time upfront but once you get it, you can generate content that actually looks professional. Took me about 2-3 weeks to get good at it" }, { "id": "t1_ooduerb", "author": "/u/ShodanLieu", "updated": "2026-05-28T14:59:03+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tpmq2p/i_have_23_hours_a_day_and_a_laptop_what_can_i_do/ooduerb/", "content": "So what exactly are you creating? This sounds really interesting but I can’t figure out what you are making or how you are selling it." }, { "id": "t1_ooehnz0", "author": "/u/No-Conflict4539", "updated": "2026-05-28T16:40:27+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tpmq2p/i_have_23_hours_a_day_and_a_laptop_what_can_i_do/ooehnz0/", "content": "AI influencers — (i have made 4 model so far) basically creating a consistent fictional character using free tools like Gemini and Higgsfield. The model sheets keep the face consistent across different scenes. I actually put together a full guide on the exact workflow if you're interested." }, { "id": "t1_ooenw3z", "author": "/u/Strido12345", "updated": "2026-05-28T17:07:17+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tpmq2p/i_have_23_hours_a_day_and_a_laptop_what_can_i_do/ooenw3z/", "content": "How much revenue are they generating you?" }, { "id": "t1_ooia3cy", "author": "/u/No-Conflict4539", "updated": "2026-05-29T04:13:40+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tpmq2p/i_have_23_hours_a_day_and_a_laptop_what_can_i_do/ooia3cy/", "content": "check DM" }, { "id": "t1_ooel6ie", "author": "/u/silverserpent44", "updated": "2026-05-28T16:55:34+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tpmq2p/i_have_23_hours_a_day_and_a_laptop_what_can_i_do/ooel6ie/", "content": "Can you send me a guide?" }, { "id": "t1_ooemvm0", "author": "/u/No-Conflict4539", "updated": "2026-05-28T17:02:50+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tpmq2p/i_have_23_hours_a_day_and_a_laptop_what_can_i_do/ooemvm0/", "content": "Check Dm" }, { "id": "t1_oofjpae", "author": "/u/ClerkPleasant9520", "updated": "2026-05-28T19:26:49+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tpmq2p/i_have_23_hours_a_day_and_a_laptop_what_can_i_do/oofjpae/", "content": "Im i terested as well.please" }, { "id": "t1_op0a2z2", "author": "/u/No_Interview_1318", "updated": "2026-05-31T20:32:36+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tpmq2p/i_have_23_hours_a_day_and_a_laptop_what_can_i_do/op0a2z2/", "content": "Can you send me the guid please" }, { "id": "t1_ooepcmu", "author": "/u/Living-Evidence-9041", "updated": "2026-05-28T17:13:37+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tpmq2p/i_have_23_hours_a_day_and_a_laptop_what_can_i_do/ooepcmu/", "content": "I'd be interested to read more about this if you're willing to share" }, { "id": "t1_oofp2wi", "author": "/u/JeSuisIndy", "updated": "2026-05-28T19:51:07+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tpmq2p/i_have_23_hours_a_day_and_a_laptop_what_can_i_do/oofp2wi/", "content": "Can you send me the guide please?" }, { "id": "t1_ooia8yu", "author": "/u/No-Conflict4539", "updated": "2026-05-29T04:14:43+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tpmq2p/i_have_23_hours_a_day_and_a_laptop_what_can_i_do/ooia8yu/", "content": "check DM" }, { "id": "t1_ooftso3", "author": "/u/blijvenbewegen", "updated": "2026-05-28T20:12:19+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tpmq2p/i_have_23_hours_a_day_and_a_laptop_what_can_i_do/ooftso3/", "content": "Can you send me the guide please?" }, { "id": "t1_ooiactw", "author": "/u/No-Conflict4539", "updated": "2026-05-29T04:15:27+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tpmq2p/i_have_23_hours_a_day_and_a_laptop_what_can_i_do/ooiactw/", "content": "check DM" }, { "id": "t1_oohkcef", "author": "", "updated": "2026-05-29T01:38:19+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tpmq2p/i_have_23_hours_a_day_and_a_laptop_what_can_i_do/oohkcef/", "content": "[deleted]" }, { "id": "t1_ooiaf6e", "author": "/u/No-Conflict4539", "updated": "2026-05-29T04:15:54+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tpmq2p/i_have_23_hours_a_day_and_a_laptop_what_can_i_do/ooiaf6e/", "content": "check DM" }, { "id": "t1_ooiqyln", "author": "/u/ja__bro", "updated": "2026-05-29T06:19:19+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tpmq2p/i_have_23_hours_a_day_and_a_laptop_what_can_i_do/ooiqyln/", "content": "Can i have the guide please" }, { "id": "t1_ooirpir", "author": "/u/No-Conflict4539", "updated": "2026-05-29T06:25:20+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tpmq2p/i_have_23_hours_a_day_and_a_laptop_what_can_i_do/ooirpir/", "content": "Check DM" }, { "id": "t1_oojez9i", "author": "/u/ane-ComplyCraft", "updated": "2026-05-29T09:42:16+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tpmq2p/i_have_23_hours_a_day_and_a_laptop_what_can_i_do/oojez9i/", "content": "Im interested in knowing more about this." }, { "id": "t1_ook5m5u", "author": "/u/No-Conflict4539", "updated": "2026-05-29T12:37:19+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tpmq2p/i_have_23_hours_a_day_and_a_laptop_what_can_i_do/ook5m5u/", "content": "Check dm" }, { "id": "t1_ook7muc", "author": "/u/the_one_behind_bars", "updated": "2026-05-29T12:48:05+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tpmq2p/i_have_23_hours_a_day_and_a_laptop_what_can_i_do/ook7muc/", "content": "Guide plsss??" }, { "id": "t1_ook7z8q", "author": "/u/No-Conflict4539", "updated": "2026-05-29T12:49:54+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tpmq2p/i_have_23_hours_a_day_and_a_laptop_what_can_i_do/ook7z8q/", "content": "Check dm" }, { "id": "t1_oomnuzv", "author": "/u/Sad_Conversation3511", "updated": "2026-05-29T19:25:13+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tpmq2p/i_have_23_hours_a_day_and_a_laptop_what_can_i_do/oomnuzv/", "content": "I am interested please" }, { "id": "t1_ooq1k0v", "author": "/u/No-Conflict4539", "updated": "2026-05-30T07:42:50+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tpmq2p/i_have_23_hours_a_day_and_a_laptop_what_can_i_do/ooq1k0v/", "content": "Check dm" }, { "id": "t1_oong8az", "author": "/u/Odd-Sink-2117", "updated": "2026-05-29T21:39:57+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tpmq2p/i_have_23_hours_a_day_and_a_laptop_what_can_i_do/oong8az/", "content": "Im interested. Thank you!" }, { "id": "t1_oonr49v", "author": "/u/rainbowpot4to", "updated": "2026-05-29T22:37:10+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tpmq2p/i_have_23_hours_a_day_and_a_laptop_what_can_i_do/oonr49v/", "content": "Can you send me this pls" }, { "id": "t1_ooq1q9j", "author": "/u/No-Conflict4539", "updated": "2026-05-30T07:44:20+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tpmq2p/i_have_23_hours_a_day_and_a_laptop_what_can_i_do/ooq1q9j/", "content": "Check dm" }, { "id": "t1_oorchsf", "author": "/u/warren_peace_1867", "updated": "2026-05-30T13:31:45+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tpmq2p/i_have_23_hours_a_day_and_a_laptop_what_can_i_do/oorchsf/", "content": "Just dm you for info as well. . Thanks!" }, { "id": "t1_oorny2j", "author": "/u/Background-Can-6892", "updated": "2026-05-30T14:32:08+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tpmq2p/i_have_23_hours_a_day_and_a_laptop_what_can_i_do/oorny2j/", "content": "Can you send a guide?" }, { "id": "t1_oosmlkt", "author": "/u/No-Conflict4539", "updated": "2026-05-30T17:21:29+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tpmq2p/i_have_23_hours_a_day_and_a_laptop_what_can_i_do/oosmlkt/", "content": "Check dm" }, { "id": "t1_oos2l10", "author": "/u/Zestyclose_Leg7556", "updated": "2026-05-30T15:45:12+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tpmq2p/i_have_23_hours_a_day_and_a_laptop_what_can_i_do/oos2l10/", "content": "Can you please send me your guide. Thank you so much." }, { "id": "t1_oosmgw8", "author": "/u/No-Conflict4539", "updated": "2026-05-30T17:20:51+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tpmq2p/i_have_23_hours_a_day_and_a_laptop_what_can_i_do/oosmgw8/", "content": "Check dm" }, { "id": "t1_oosflc1", "author": "/u/Topsec5754", "updated": "2026-05-30T16:48:41+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tpmq2p/i_have_23_hours_a_day_and_a_laptop_what_can_i_do/oosflc1/", "content": "Would you please send me your guide. Thanks" }, { "id": "t1_oouyg5g", "author": "/u/benelpa", "updated": "2026-05-31T00:47:59+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tpmq2p/i_have_23_hours_a_day_and_a_laptop_what_can_i_do/oouyg5g/", "content": "Hi, can you send me the guide please?" }, { "id": "t1_oohzmdd", "author": "/u/Independent_Egg7809", "updated": "2026-05-29T03:05:45+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tpmq2p/i_have_23_hours_a_day_and_a_laptop_what_can_i_do/oohzmdd/", "content": "Can you send me the guide ?" }, { "id": "t1_ooi9yzy", "author": "/u/No-Conflict4539", "updated": "2026-05-29T04:12:52+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tpmq2p/i_have_23_hours_a_day_and_a_laptop_what_can_i_do/ooi9yzy/", "content": "check DM" }, { "id": "t1_ooj0hj5", "author": "/u/Main-Telephone6520", "updated": "2026-05-29T07:37:59+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tpmq2p/i_have_23_hours_a_day_and_a_laptop_what_can_i_do/ooj0hj5/", "content": "Can you send me a guide?" }, { "id": "t1_oon2jdr", "author": "/u/bastos9779", "updated": "2026-05-29T20:33:15+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tpmq2p/i_have_23_hours_a_day_and_a_laptop_what_can_i_do/oon2jdr/", "content": "Please send me the guide 🙏🏻" }, { "id": "t1_oooptzg", "author": "/u/Aggravating_Bat_1260", "updated": "2026-05-30T01:56:05+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tpmq2p/i_have_23_hours_a_day_and_a_laptop_what_can_i_do/oooptzg/", "content": "Please send me the guide. Tks" }, { "id": "t1_ooq1s8j", "author": "/u/No-Conflict4539", "updated": "2026-05-30T07:44:47+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tpmq2p/i_have_23_hours_a_day_and_a_laptop_what_can_i_do/ooq1s8j/", "content": "Check dm" }, { "id": "t1_oorg7w2", "author": "/u/Illustrious-Diet7986", "updated": "2026-05-30T13:51:57+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tpmq2p/i_have_23_hours_a_day_and_a_laptop_what_can_i_do/oorg7w2/", "content": "Guide please 😇😇" }, { "id": "t1_oosmoyw", "author": "/u/No-Conflict4539", "updated": "2026-05-30T17:21:56+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tpmq2p/i_have_23_hours_a_day_and_a_laptop_what_can_i_do/oosmoyw/", "content": "Check dm" }, { "id": "t1_oosdfme", "author": "/u/Common-Butterfly-508", "updated": "2026-05-30T16:38:21+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tpmq2p/i_have_23_hours_a_day_and_a_laptop_what_can_i_do/oosdfme/", "content": "Can you send me a guide?" }, { "id": "t1_ooxgxgz", "author": "/u/BitRevolutionary9067", "updated": "2026-05-31T12:06:16+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tpmq2p/i_have_23_hours_a_day_and_a_laptop_what_can_i_do/ooxgxgz/", "content": "Can you please send me the guide also?" }, { "id": "t1_oofeqo4", "author": "/u/cosmickelp", "updated": "2026-05-28T19:04:33+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tpmq2p/i_have_23_hours_a_day_and_a_laptop_what_can_i_do/oofeqo4/", "content": "Tiktok affiliate program. Learn how to edit on capcut" }, { "id": "t1_oogie4m", "author": "/u/PNW_Uncle_Iroh", "updated": "2026-05-28T22:08:28+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tpmq2p/i_have_23_hours_a_day_and_a_laptop_what_can_i_do/oogie4m/", "content": "Get certified for something tangental to real estate sales like home inspections or financing. I know it’s not passive but it could increase your income and give you more sales leads.\n Real estate investing would be truly passive." }, { "id": "t1_oohwcr4", "author": "/u/DiscussionBeautiful", "updated": "2026-05-29T02:46:08+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tpmq2p/i_have_23_hours_a_day_and_a_laptop_what_can_i_do/oohwcr4/", "content": "I asked Claude Opus 4.8 on how to get an honest review on a new business idea from AI and I got this…\n Assign an adversarial role with a concrete job. “Act as a skeptical VC who passes on 95% of deals. Your job is to explain why you’d decline.” Or “You’re a competitor planning to crush this — where do you attack?” Roles with built-in incentive to say no work better than “be honest,” which models treat as a politeness setting. Force a structure that has nowhere to hide. Ask for: the three assumptions that, if wrong, kill the idea; the unit economics with real numbers; who already does this and why customers would switch; and a pre-mortem (“it’s 18 months later and this failed — write the story of how”). Make it score each dimension 1–10 and justify low scores specifically. Ban the hedging. “No compliments, no ‘great idea but.’ Lead with the strongest reason this fails.” Then follow up with “What’s the most likely way I’m fooling myself here?”" }, { "id": "t1_oohz8n6", "author": "/u/Brilliant_Error5370", "updated": "2026-05-29T03:03:24+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tpmq2p/i_have_23_hours_a_day_and_a_laptop_what_can_i_do/oohz8n6/", "content": "You can invest in Weekly paying ETFs, P2P lending, and Crypto staking. It will make money while you sleep but also keep you busy if you want to learn more." }, { "id": "t1_oobpvjg", "author": "/u/zol988", "updated": "2026-05-28T06:51:38+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tpmq2p/i_have_23_hours_a_day_and_a_laptop_what_can_i_do/oobpvjg/", "content": "Hi OP, you can do several things in telecommunications industry. I’m guessing you are based in the US.\n Try advertising World Mobile phone plans. They have a decent referral program. As a realtor you could register in WM’s Network builder platform in your area to find hosts for infrastructure.\n Look into their AirNode infrastructure and what ‘Hosts’ do.\n The company is expanding in the USA so there will be plenty of things to do." }, { "id": "t1_ooerl3r", "author": "/u/Heavy_Woodpecker_124", "updated": "2026-05-28T17:23:15+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tpmq2p/i_have_23_hours_a_day_and_a_laptop_what_can_i_do/ooerl3r/", "content": "You are a realtor, so for servises do you pay money? (Billboards, signs, food etc). You have network and make a business if you sell those things to other realtors or offices" }, { "id": "t1_ooihv0t", "author": "/u/Dat-White_Boy", "updated": "2026-05-29T05:08:43+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tpmq2p/i_have_23_hours_a_day_and_a_laptop_what_can_i_do/ooihv0t/", "content": "OF" }, { "id": "t1_ooiwnwu", "author": "/u/NachMitternacht", "updated": "2026-05-29T07:05:31+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tpmq2p/i_have_23_hours_a_day_and_a_laptop_what_can_i_do/ooiwnwu/", "content": "Prolific" }, { "id": "t1_ookx4oz", "author": "/u/Broad_Pension3574", "updated": "2026-05-29T14:49:12+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tpmq2p/i_have_23_hours_a_day_and_a_laptop_what_can_i_do/ookx4oz/", "content": "With your people skills and confidence, you could start a TikTok or Instagram sharing fitness tips, MMA routines, or interesting real estate stories" }, { "id": "t1_oosxsbc", "author": "/u/JJ-Mallon", "updated": "2026-05-30T18:14:15+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tpmq2p/i_have_23_hours_a_day_and_a_laptop_what_can_i_do/oosxsbc/", "content": "Sell butthole pics on OF" }, { "id": "t1_oosyj81", "author": "/u/usefulrecent", "updated": "2026-05-30T18:17:53+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tpmq2p/i_have_23_hours_a_day_and_a_laptop_what_can_i_do/oosyj81/", "content": "O" }, { "id": "t1_ooy1fzr", "author": "/u/Queencessk", "updated": "2026-05-31T14:06:20+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tpmq2p/i_have_23_hours_a_day_and_a_laptop_what_can_i_do/ooy1fzr/", "content": "Dm me" }, { "id": "t1_op58d9h", "author": "/u/QuietDraw6607", "updated": "2026-06-01T15:34:32+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tpmq2p/i_have_23_hours_a_day_and_a_laptop_what_can_i_do/op58d9h/", "content": "I did" }, { "id": "t1_ooy9ktd", "author": "/u/Confident_Force_2168", "updated": "2026-05-31T14:47:43+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tpmq2p/i_have_23_hours_a_day_and_a_laptop_what_can_i_do/ooy9ktd/", "content": "A blog about real estate." }, { "id": "t1_op2dlo4", "author": "/u/Anonymous3728-", "updated": "2026-06-01T03:57:02+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tpmq2p/i_have_23_hours_a_day_and_a_laptop_what_can_i_do/op2dlo4/", "content": "Can you send me the guide please? Thank you!" }, { "id": "t1_op8l5eh", "author": "/u/Anubis_60", "updated": "2026-06-02T01:43:38+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tpmq2p/i_have_23_hours_a_day_and_a_laptop_what_can_i_do/op8l5eh/", "content": "I started out same as yourself with 2-3 hours to spare that I wanted to make the most of. I started doing ebay dropshipping 5 years ago. It takes about 2-3 months to see a return, though your definition of a "return" might be different than mine. By return I meant a couple hundred bucks a month" }, { "id": "t1_ooey8xk", "author": "/u/lroberson80", "updated": "2026-05-28T17:51:51+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tpmq2p/i_have_23_hours_a_day_and_a_laptop_what_can_i_do/ooey8xk/", "content": "With 2-3 hours a night, you’ve got a solid foundation to kickstart something impactful. Given your background in real estate and charisma, consider starting a YouTube channel or podcast focused on personal development or fitness, blending your knowledge of the market with your MMA training. You could share insights on how to stay disciplined in both areas, attract an audience, and monetize through ads or sponsorships.\n To see a return in 1-2 months, you might also explore affiliate marketing within your niche. Once you build a presence, share products or services that resonate with your audience, especially those tied to personal growth, fitness, or real estate resources. This approach leverages your existing skills while allowing you to see quicker results. Let me know if this helps!" }, { "id": "t1_oogod09", "author": "/u/og-crime-junkie", "updated": "2026-05-28T22:39:42+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tpmq2p/i_have_23_hours_a_day_and_a_laptop_what_can_i_do/oogod09/", "content": "This is in no way fast & easy, nor passive. YouTube is a job." }, { "id": "t1_oof2f9e", "author": "/u/BadgerPak3", "updated": "2026-05-28T18:10:00+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tpmq2p/i_have_23_hours_a_day_and_a_laptop_what_can_i_do/oof2f9e/", "content": "Lo" }, { "id": "t1_oofv9hj", "author": "/u/clallen2000", "updated": "2026-05-28T20:18:58+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tpmq2p/i_have_23_hours_a_day_and_a_laptop_what_can_i_do/oofv9hj/", "content": "Since you’re already a Realtor, your phone skills and ability to handle rejection are a massive asset. Have you looked into B2B digital lead gen or appointment setting for local service businesses?\n I work with a company in the home services/B2B space that pays a $300 commission per qualified lead that converts into a client. It’s entirely phone-based and asset-light. Since you already know how to talk to property owners and business lines, it might be a seamless transition for extra cash without the overhead. Send me a DM if you are interested." }, { "id": "t1_oojwien", "author": "/u/RealLifeCoaching", "updated": "2026-05-29T11:45:32+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tpmq2p/i_have_23_hours_a_day_and_a_laptop_what_can_i_do/oojwien/", "content": "It sounds like you're looking for a side hustle.\n This sub is about passive income.\n Why do you not understand the difference?" }, { "id": "t1_oonz740", "author": "/u/Isopropyl77", "updated": "2026-05-29T23:21:43+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tpmq2p/i_have_23_hours_a_day_and_a_laptop_what_can_i_do/oonz740/", "content": "This sub is actually almost NEVER about passive income. I have seen so few posts or comments that actually understand what that means." }, { "id": "t1_oopypb7", "author": "/u/RealLifeCoaching", "updated": "2026-05-30T07:18:19+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tpmq2p/i_have_23_hours_a_day_and_a_laptop_what_can_i_do/oopypb7/", "content": "Yeah, I am genuinely curious about the mindset of people who just spam the wrong sub." }, { "id": "t1_ooktsdj", "author": "/u/LeaderAtLeading", "updated": "2026-05-29T14:34:15+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tpmq2p/i_have_23_hours_a_day_and_a_laptop_what_can_i_do/ooktsdj/", "content": "Best use of that time is picking something where effort compounds, not random hustles. 2 to 3 hours daily is enough to build something real if you focus on one skill or one simple offer instead of jumping ideas." }, { "id": "t1_oomz89k", "author": "/u/Local-Airline", "updated": "2026-05-29T20:17:48+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tpmq2p/i_have_23_hours_a_day_and_a_laptop_what_can_i_do/oomz89k/", "content": "Halos.gg" }, { "id": "t1_ooa6h6h", "author": "/u/Sorry-Ad-5527", "updated": "2026-05-28T00:48:43+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tpmq2p/i_have_23_hours_a_day_and_a_laptop_what_can_i_do/ooa6h6h/", "content": "YouTube and maybe other paying social media. Maybe podcast.\n However whatever you do, it might take more than 2-3 months to see any profit. Just remain consistent." }, { "id": "t1_oofio8f", "author": "/u/Nervous_Courage9202", "updated": "2026-05-28T19:22:11+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tpmq2p/i_have_23_hours_a_day_and_a_laptop_what_can_i_do/oofio8f/", "content": "Nothing, passive income is a scam" }, { "id": "t1_oonzf73", "author": "/u/Isopropyl77", "updated": "2026-05-29T23:22:59+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tpmq2p/i_have_23_hours_a_day_and_a_laptop_what_can_i_do/oonzf73/", "content": "It's not - it's just rarely actually discussed here." } ] }, { "source": "r/passive_income top month", "id": "t3_1tioyc7", "title": "Going to hit 7-figures in revenue in E-commerce.", "author": "/u/maddogyamad", "updated": "2026-05-20T15:22:38+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tioyc7/going_to_hit_7figures_in_revenue_in_ecommerce/", "content": "So I’m lucky enough to have built a company that is just going to hit (or be very close to) 7-figures in revenue this year in the ecommerce space. I also have helped a few local startups with some consulting that are now making approx $10k - $30k a month.\n Not here to brag, sell a course or anything of the like. But I’m here to offer any free advice for those who are looking to start something, got a bottleneck they can’t seem to solve or want to know the next step into scale their business.\n Ask away!\n submitted by /u/maddogyamad\n [link] [comments]", "contentHtml": "

So I’m lucky enough to have built a company that is just going to hit (or be very close to) 7-figures in revenue this year in the ecommerce space. I also have helped a few local startups with some consulting that are now making approx $10k - $30k a month.
Not here to brag, sell a course or anything of the like. But I’m here to offer any free advice for those who are looking to start something, got a bottleneck they can’t seem to solve or want to know the next step into scale their business.

Ask away!

submitted by /u/maddogyamad
[link] [comments]", "comments": [ { "id": "t1_omvp7l4", "author": "/u/AutoModerator", "updated": "2026-05-20T15:22:38+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tioyc7/going_to_hit_7figures_in_revenue_in_ecommerce/omvp7l4/", "content": "Check out the Community Highlights for current and future Mod Vetted opportunities and Newsletter Episodes.\n Please do due diligence on any crypto opportunity. A simple google search could save you a fortune.\n I am a bot, and this action was performed automatically. Please contact the moderators of this subreddit if you have any questions or concerns." }, { "id": "t1_omx1dw5", "author": "/u/ada_s5", "updated": "2026-05-20T18:56:06+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tioyc7/going_to_hit_7figures_in_revenue_in_ecommerce/omx1dw5/", "content": "This generous and open-minded attitude is rare. Thank you, sir. I have a handmade artisanal product. It is a product with a long history, and very few people still make it today. We produce it from a traditional variety of pear. Each pear is peeled by hand, sun-dried, and then individually pressed by hand between two wooden boards. The final product is a true delicacy. It is made from 100% pear, naturally caramelized by the sun, and pairs perfectly with stronger cheeses and wines. At the moment, we sell almost all of our production in bulk for resale. However, I would love to see our brand grow and sell a larger quantity of packaged products under our own label directly to the end consumer. As small-scale farmers, selling directly to customers is always much more advantageous. I would also like to reach international markets. However, my understanding of the online marketplace is still limited. Any suggestions would be greatly appreciated. Thank you in advance." }, { "id": "t1_omxvc5s", "author": "/u/maddogyamad", "updated": "2026-05-20T21:22:21+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tioyc7/going_to_hit_7figures_in_revenue_in_ecommerce/omxvc5s/", "content": "You’re welcome. Wow that sounds incredible. I think that product will resonate with the right crowd. I think crack local before going international but definitely set your goals high eventually. I think what you described to me is how you need to market the product. That it’s a premium and authentic product that’s carefully crafted with love and care. I think if you get into a few online groups or pages that people are interested in that and really hone in on what you’ve described with a good website, it will come naturally. Really use a selling point on how it is created and showcase the steps and then the benefits of it, it will go a long way. Just don’t try to over complicate it or tap into too many markets. Create a simple but easy to navigate website, showcasing the product, the creation steps, the benefits (eg durability) and of course reviews." }, { "id": "t1_omxx05y", "author": "/u/ada_s5", "updated": "2026-05-20T21:30:40+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tioyc7/going_to_hit_7figures_in_revenue_in_ecommerce/omxx05y/", "content": "Thanks for your reply. I" }, { "id": "t1_omxxote", "author": "/u/maddogyamad", "updated": "2026-05-20T21:34:08+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tioyc7/going_to_hit_7figures_in_revenue_in_ecommerce/omxxote/", "content": "More than welcome! Best of luck! Also even try local markets and even provide a QR code or some sort of pamphlet they can take home to then show others perhaps?" }, { "id": "t1_on2geyj", "author": "/u/ada_s5", "updated": "2026-05-21T14:53:52+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tioyc7/going_to_hit_7figures_in_revenue_in_ecommerce/on2geyj/", "content": "We take part in local markets for traditional products. It has been the best way we found to promote our product directly to the final customer. It has worked very well because people take them to dinners and other family and friends gatherings, and word of mouth works really well once people try the product. Since it is a product that was disappearing, many people do not know it. By attending fairs and markets, we offer tastings, and that is a real game changer. The QR code idea is really good. I’m going to start working on that." }, { "id": "t1_on2kvb0", "author": "/u/maddogyamad", "updated": "2026-05-21T15:13:55+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tioyc7/going_to_hit_7figures_in_revenue_in_ecommerce/on2kvb0/", "content": "Yeah I think you’re in a really good position in the fact that you’ve got a quality product, you just can’t seem to put in front of enough faces. I think a simple, easy to navigate website with some meta ads will really ramp up your business.\n But keep doing what you’re doing and scale as comfortably as you can." }, { "id": "t1_omz37sy", "author": "/u/Wilhelm-Edrasill", "updated": "2026-05-21T01:27:58+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tioyc7/going_to_hit_7figures_in_revenue_in_ecommerce/omz37sy/", "content": "Or you know, just get your ass on tik tok - a website, and have airmail setup to global markets?\n If this is upscale , market to those types of events.\n Offer the 10k pear package for weddings / events, and have the airmail option. just price in all the costs - just to have it as an option.\n Need reference material? Literally google - japan luxary fruits. They already do this...\n If you make a shit load, remember me - Tiny Wilhelm." }, { "id": "t1_on2gzw5", "author": "/u/ada_s5", "updated": "2026-05-21T14:56:29+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tioyc7/going_to_hit_7figures_in_revenue_in_ecommerce/on2gzw5/", "content": "Ahahah. I Will. But can you elaborate about the aimail options. I always think that for small business the prices are so high that people find them not affordable. We dont have tiktok. But we do have IG" }, { "id": "t1_on2hao6", "author": "/u/ada_s5", "updated": "2026-05-21T14:57:49+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tioyc7/going_to_hit_7figures_in_revenue_in_ecommerce/on2hao6/", "content": "I do have some difficulty with online plataforms and moderno world e-Commerce. Thats why i asked for some help and information." }, { "id": "t1_on0t8s0", "author": "/u/mggray1981", "updated": "2026-05-21T08:53:31+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tioyc7/going_to_hit_7figures_in_revenue_in_ecommerce/on0t8s0/", "content": "That sounds like it'd be a big hit in Japan. They don't mind paying for such products. Where do you sell? Im in Scotland and would love to try it." }, { "id": "t1_on2c4mh", "author": "/u/ada_s5", "updated": "2026-05-21T14:34:13+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tioyc7/going_to_hit_7figures_in_revenue_in_ecommerce/on2c4mh/", "content": "I wold love to try and ship ir to you can i dm you?" }, { "id": "t1_on2cauq", "author": "/u/mggray1981", "updated": "2026-05-21T14:35:01+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tioyc7/going_to_hit_7figures_in_revenue_in_ecommerce/on2cauq/", "content": "Yes please. Feel.free to dm" }, { "id": "t1_on2dw19", "author": "/u/ada_s5", "updated": "2026-05-21T14:42:24+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tioyc7/going_to_hit_7figures_in_revenue_in_ecommerce/on2dw19/", "content": "Check your inbox" }, { "id": "t1_onkw3ot", "author": "/u/DemonParadise", "updated": "2026-05-24T10:28:41+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tioyc7/going_to_hit_7figures_in_revenue_in_ecommerce/onkw3ot/", "content": "Your product genuinely caught my attention. That kind of story, handmade, sun-dried, generations of craft, is exactly what’s missing in e-commerce right now.\n I’m a UX/UI designer specialized in e-commerce branding, and I’m also personally looking for an authentic product to build a brand around. So I’m speaking both as someone who could help you, and someone who finds what you’re doing genuinely inspiring.\n Happy to exchange ideas if you’re open to it." }, { "id": "t1_onr9ls6", "author": "/u/chairman-bio", "updated": "2026-05-25T09:34:06+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tioyc7/going_to_hit_7figures_in_revenue_in_ecommerce/onr9ls6/", "content": "Can I be on your DM Am an ecom guy needing help with UI/UX design" }, { "id": "t1_ons79xn", "author": "/u/DemonParadise", "updated": "2026-05-25T13:26:07+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tioyc7/going_to_hit_7figures_in_revenue_in_ecommerce/ons79xn/", "content": "Sure, you can DM me" }, { "id": "t1_onxoymz", "author": "/u/ada_s5", "updated": "2026-05-26T08:19:10+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tioyc7/going_to_hit_7figures_in_revenue_in_ecommerce/onxoymz/", "content": "Hi! I would love to exchange ideas. Thank you. You can DM me" }, { "id": "t1_omvttbt", "author": "/u/alrejhja", "updated": "2026-05-20T15:43:18+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tioyc7/going_to_hit_7figures_in_revenue_in_ecommerce/omvttbt/", "content": "Just want to clarify the selling strategy, are you selling some white-label goods, or is it a purely drop shipping play? Do you use Shopify?" }, { "id": "t1_omvu2cv", "author": "/u/maddogyamad", "updated": "2026-05-20T15:44:26+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tioyc7/going_to_hit_7figures_in_revenue_in_ecommerce/omvu2cv/", "content": "Yeah so I sell my own product that is contract manufactured with my own branding. So not drop shipping and yes, is all through Shopify :)" }, { "id": "t1_on1c9pp", "author": "/u/alrejhja", "updated": "2026-05-21T11:23:21+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tioyc7/going_to_hit_7figures_in_revenue_in_ecommerce/on1c9pp/", "content": "That's good to know. I think the biggest issue with most of the Shopify businesses is that the selling strategy isn't unique + most items that they sell aren't that unique. Most Shopify businesses can be easily replicated if you have the capital. I wonder if you did anything to secure your intellectual property (IP). Edit: I didn't realize you were an Aussie. The fitness supplements business is massive in Australia." }, { "id": "t1_on1hfs1", "author": "/u/maddogyamad", "updated": "2026-05-21T11:55:43+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tioyc7/going_to_hit_7figures_in_revenue_in_ecommerce/on1hfs1/", "content": "Yeah people need to realise that Shopify is just the platform they sell on and need to create a brand. Obviously Shopify helps with conversions and upselling, as well as ways to increase AOV. But there’s a lot more involved. I think people can copy my store if they want but they don’t have the branding. Also my products aren’t available through something like alibaba. This is where Drop shipping stores can easily be replicated and then with good creative ads and SEO can knock off the competitor. I’ve actually built a unique brand which ties into my lifestyle which gives me that USP which would be very hard to replicate. Not to mention years of reviews and credible testimonials.\n Yep I’m Aussie. Most definitely the health and wellness space has many opportunities. It can be competitive if you’re doing generic stuff (eg protein powders, skincare etc) so you need to go about it the right way and really single in on a single niche opposed to the whole market." }, { "id": "t1_onbfddi", "author": "/u/Lucky_Net_3645", "updated": "2026-05-22T21:01:16+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tioyc7/going_to_hit_7figures_in_revenue_in_ecommerce/onbfddi/", "content": "Branding really is everything. Those unique selling points and personal connections to your products can’t be replicated easily. It's all about creating a community and trust around your brand." }, { "id": "t1_onuyayz", "author": "/u/Confident_Smile_3231", "updated": "2026-05-25T21:28:03+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tioyc7/going_to_hit_7figures_in_revenue_in_ecommerce/onuyayz/", "content": "The branding moat is super underrated in tech/startup circles.\n Curious - what changed the most as you scaled? - brand/community trust - better creatives/content - retention/repeat buyers - conversion optimization - operational systems\n or something else?" }, { "id": "t1_onvhtim", "author": "/u/maddogyamad", "updated": "2026-05-25T23:16:22+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tioyc7/going_to_hit_7figures_in_revenue_in_ecommerce/onvhtim/", "content": "I think all of those to be honest. - as the brand grew, so did our reviews and testimonials which blending in that community trust, as well as the customer experience - Gained a deeper understanding of marketing and were able to produce better creatives and content on the back of that. Then as I scaled as able to bring on a team - Through email marketing, subscriptions, loyalty program and a pretty good retention strategy I was able to get repeat purchases - Easy to navigate website and my ‘least click purchase’ strategy able to optimise conversions.\n So really all of these things play an important part of success within a business and all of them changed as I scaled. They all need to adapt as the business does. You can’t be just focusing on acquisition and not give a thought into retention or be running the same style static or UGC ads. Hope this answers your question" }, { "id": "t1_onviu8f", "author": "/u/Confident_Smile_3231", "updated": "2026-05-25T23:22:16+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tioyc7/going_to_hit_7figures_in_revenue_in_ecommerce/onviu8f/", "content": "Got it. And the “least click purchase” point is so true. Feels like a lot of founders focus heavily on acquisition while friction quietly kills conversions.\n Really appreciate the detailed answer 🙌" }, { "id": "t1_onvj83t", "author": "/u/maddogyamad", "updated": "2026-05-25T23:24:30+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tioyc7/going_to_hit_7figures_in_revenue_in_ecommerce/onvj83t/", "content": "Oh acquisition is important and obviously each business model is different. Luckily for me, If you use my product every day you’re going you’re going to have to re-order within a week or two. So retention is a big focus within my model. But I think a lot of people are leaving money on the table by not giving retention a look in." }, { "id": "t1_on1rxgw", "author": "/u/Competitive-Yak-10", "updated": "2026-05-21T12:55:01+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tioyc7/going_to_hit_7figures_in_revenue_in_ecommerce/on1rxgw/", "content": "what is it? and how did you get into it?" }, { "id": "t1_on1skpd", "author": "/u/maddogyamad", "updated": "2026-05-21T12:58:27+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tioyc7/going_to_hit_7figures_in_revenue_in_ecommerce/on1skpd/", "content": "Products and service within the health and wellness category. I saw a common problem and opportunity amongst similar people, pitched a solution and gained positive response, then through market research, planning and development, created products at which then I marketed to these people. I had no background in health and wellness, no degree, nothing really. Just an idea and determination. I was able to save and raise the investment capital on my own through bootstrapping. Pretty much just learnt along the way and kept learning how to tackle bottle necks through seeing what similar founders and entrepreneurs did. So you don’t need millions of dollars, you don’t need university degrees and you don’t need all the answers at the start." }, { "id": "t1_omwajpl", "author": "/u/Vitor_Toff", "updated": "2026-05-20T16:56:36+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tioyc7/going_to_hit_7figures_in_revenue_in_ecommerce/omwajpl/", "content": "why ppl downvoting your comment, lol" }, { "id": "t1_omwasx2", "author": "/u/maddogyamad", "updated": "2026-05-20T16:57:42+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tioyc7/going_to_hit_7figures_in_revenue_in_ecommerce/omwasx2/", "content": "Didn’t notice they were? People can take it or leave it if they want. No skin off my back. I’ve got nothing to gain or lose haha" }, { "id": "t1_omwehxr", "author": "/u/FarceMultiplier", "updated": "2026-05-20T17:13:56+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tioyc7/going_to_hit_7figures_in_revenue_in_ecommerce/omwehxr/", "content": "I've been working on a website to help retirees choose a country to retire to. I'm just trying to make enough to supplement my own meager retirement income. I'm autistic and trying to do this is incredibly hard...not technically but to understand how I will need to motivate people to pay for a very comprehensive report to assist them and avoid analysis paralysis, and how much to charge for said report.\n Its not ready for full release, but any advice?" }, { "id": "t1_omwffzt", "author": "/u/maddogyamad", "updated": "2026-05-20T17:18:08+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tioyc7/going_to_hit_7figures_in_revenue_in_ecommerce/omwffzt/", "content": "Hey there! I like that idea. Thinking outside of the box.\n I think the best play is that you’re not selling a report, you’re selling certainty. Retirees don’t want 100 country options and a giant spreadsheet, they want confidence that they’re not about to make a life-changing mistake with the money they’ve spent decades earning. Remember a quick google search can paint thr picture for them. I’d start simple: talk to 5–10 retirees, learn what they’re actually scared of, manually create a few reports, and charge a small amount early, even $49 to say $99 just to prove people will pay for clarity. Don’t perfect the platform first. Validate the pain, narrow the options, give them a clear recommendation, then use those first customers to improve the product and raise the price. Just know it will take time but the best strategy is to talk to the types of people who will be buying this. Good luck with it!" }, { "id": "t1_omx8g3s", "author": "/u/sofainthebathroom", "updated": "2026-05-20T19:28:57+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tioyc7/going_to_hit_7figures_in_revenue_in_ecommerce/omx8g3s/", "content": "Thank you so much for sharing this and congrats! I've been trying for a long time to build something that could generate proper side income, but I always struggle with the uncertainty of it. I've been working in digital marketing for 5 years, mainly with Meta Ads, and more recently Google and Reddit ads as well.\n Last year, I worked independently with a few clients, but the inconsistent income made me really anxious, so I ended up going back to a full-time agency role for financial stability.\n Right now, my goal is to keep my job while building something sustainable on the side, ideally a business or income stream that can grow over time without depending only on hourly work or clients. I kept 3 freelance clients with consulting sessions but I make like 200/300€ extra a month with that and even though I love working with them, it consumes so much energy\n From your experience, what would you focus on first if you were in my position? Thanks!" }, { "id": "t1_omxw0jk", "author": "/u/maddogyamad", "updated": "2026-05-20T21:25:45+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tioyc7/going_to_hit_7figures_in_revenue_in_ecommerce/omxw0jk/", "content": "Thanks for your honesty! Sounds like you’re worried to take the leap and risk of running a business which is essentially what entrepreneurs do. I don’t think there is any reason for you to quit your day job and seems like what you’re doing is making a good amount of passive income, it’s just a matter of scaling it up a notch. Use your current clients as testimonials and case studies to take on more clients. As the business grows and takes more of your time, you’ll then decide whether this is something you want to pursue full time or not. If it takes a lot of energy, maybe run some numbers and see if you can outsource some of the work that doesnt necessarily need your touch? Maybe a VA or an automation program? Bring on a small team and then maybe you can focus on the more important things like sales and overview of the projects?" }, { "id": "t1_on292mq", "author": "/u/sofainthebathroom", "updated": "2026-05-21T14:20:04+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tioyc7/going_to_hit_7figures_in_revenue_in_ecommerce/on292mq/", "content": "Thank you so much for your feedback! I think that I wanted so much to be independent and do freelance that I forgot I need to have structure before and build it step by step. But we all need to learn somehow :) I’ll consider your suggestions while thinking about my next steps, thanks!!" }, { "id": "t1_on2b0a9", "author": "/u/maddogyamad", "updated": "2026-05-21T14:28:56+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tioyc7/going_to_hit_7figures_in_revenue_in_ecommerce/on2b0a9/", "content": "You’re welcome! Just realise that you are already far ahead of a lot of people who want to start out. Just look at some of the questions people are asking within this thread. You’ve already got skin in the game and have generated passive income (which is more than some people can achieve). You just need to learn now how to perfect that and it’s through what you mentioned, creating structure. Which is the boring unsexy part of business. But crucial!\n Best of luck!" }, { "id": "t1_onn8p4d", "author": "/u/sofainthebathroom", "updated": "2026-05-24T18:11:24+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tioyc7/going_to_hit_7figures_in_revenue_in_ecommerce/onn8p4d/", "content": "Yes, that’s true. And I totally agree that structure is crucial to then expand one or multiple ways of income that can grow their own way. And everything that didn’t go well and made me go back to a “normal job” were learnings and knowledge I will use in the future for sure.\n Thank you so much! Best of luck for you too!" }, { "id": "t1_omy2au3", "author": "/u/SeaCarry4397", "updated": "2026-05-20T21:57:40+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tioyc7/going_to_hit_7figures_in_revenue_in_ecommerce/omy2au3/", "content": "[ Removed by Reddit ]" }, { "id": "t1_omvs0lr", "author": "/u/Empty-Respond7645", "updated": "2026-05-20T15:35:18+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tioyc7/going_to_hit_7figures_in_revenue_in_ecommerce/omvs0lr/", "content": "thats really cool achievement! i been thinking about starting something on side but always get stuck at the product research part - how do you actually know if something will sell before investing money in it?" }, { "id": "t1_omvsw4p", "author": "/u/maddogyamad", "updated": "2026-05-20T15:39:13+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tioyc7/going_to_hit_7figures_in_revenue_in_ecommerce/omvsw4p/", "content": "Thanks! Yeah that’s the million dollar question isn’t it? I think it’s important to research your customer more than your product. People focus too much on what yo sell rather than who to sell to. Find a common problem that you have in your every day life or something that can be done better and see if others have the same problem. You can do this by asking the people around you, reddit, facebook groups and so on. Once you know you’ve got enough people in the same boat, that’s when you go onto the product(s). Then the rest comes down to quality, pricing, marketing and so forth. Hope this helps!" }, { "id": "t1_omxnedz", "author": "/u/Putrid_Bother4494", "updated": "2026-05-20T20:39:11+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tioyc7/going_to_hit_7figures_in_revenue_in_ecommerce/omxnedz/", "content": "I DMd u - im excited for your feedback if u choose to take a gander :)" }, { "id": "t1_omw7xii", "author": "/u/aus_dreamer", "updated": "2026-05-20T16:45:16+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tioyc7/going_to_hit_7figures_in_revenue_in_ecommerce/omw7xii/", "content": "I need a help, but it's not E-commerce. Could you help on that" }, { "id": "t1_omw811h", "author": "/u/maddogyamad", "updated": "2026-05-20T16:45:41+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tioyc7/going_to_hit_7figures_in_revenue_in_ecommerce/omw811h/", "content": "Sure, what’s your question?" }, { "id": "t1_omwfxxs", "author": "/u/hellnawr", "updated": "2026-05-20T17:20:20+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tioyc7/going_to_hit_7figures_in_revenue_in_ecommerce/omwfxxs/", "content": "I need $3.50" }, { "id": "t1_omwgkro", "author": "/u/maddogyamad", "updated": "2026-05-20T17:23:07+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tioyc7/going_to_hit_7figures_in_revenue_in_ecommerce/omwgkro/", "content": "Go find a place that takes coins (e.g laundromat) and look around the ground for loose change. Under the washing machines? Haha I dunno. Other options; busking, begging, a job, ask your friends or family or steal the change out of one of those fountains.\n Good luck on your quest to $3.50!" }, { "id": "t1_omxpsaj", "author": "/u/hellnawr", "updated": "2026-05-20T20:51:34+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tioyc7/going_to_hit_7figures_in_revenue_in_ecommerce/omxpsaj/", "content": "Solid options. Thanks!" }, { "id": "t1_omxy7br", "author": "/u/SockCandles", "updated": "2026-05-20T21:36:45+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tioyc7/going_to_hit_7figures_in_revenue_in_ecommerce/omxy7br/", "content": "loc-nessy!" }, { "id": "t1_omxz50e", "author": "/u/hellnawr", "updated": "2026-05-20T21:41:27+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tioyc7/going_to_hit_7figures_in_revenue_in_ecommerce/omxz50e/", "content": "After that locnussy" }, { "id": "t1_on6yi9q", "author": "/u/aus_dreamer", "updated": "2026-05-22T05:21:27+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tioyc7/going_to_hit_7figures_in_revenue_in_ecommerce/on6yi9q/", "content": "DM ?" }, { "id": "t1_omwbgwx", "author": "/u/AggressiveRemote1402", "updated": "2026-05-20T17:00:33+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tioyc7/going_to_hit_7figures_in_revenue_in_ecommerce/omwbgwx/", "content": "Marketing guy.\n Was thinking of expanding into e-commerce by finding growing businesses, and trading my copy skills for a piece of equity. Do you think this approach is viable? From an owner's point of view, does this beat paying a guy on retainer? Considering I'm directly invested in the growth of the operation.\n Also, how do you test products and pick winners?" }, { "id": "t1_omwcmus", "author": "/u/maddogyamad", "updated": "2026-05-20T17:05:41+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tioyc7/going_to_hit_7figures_in_revenue_in_ecommerce/omwcmus/", "content": "It’s viable, but only if you can actually make them more money. Founders don’t care about “passion” or “alignment” nearly as much as they care about outcomes. Equity is expensive. So if you walk in asking for equity before proving anything, most smart owners will just hire someone on retainer instead. I know for me I certainly would. The better play is “Let me increase revenue first, then we can talk upside.” If you can consistently drive growth, improve conversion, increase LTV or lower CAC, then you stop being a freelancer and start becoming an asset to the business.\n And with products, don’t over-romanticise “finding winners.” Like I’ve made mention to a few people on this subreddit, winners are usually products (or services) solving painful, expensive or emotional problems within markets where people are already spending money. Start with the customer first." }, { "id": "t1_omwi5yp", "author": "/u/AggressiveRemote1402", "updated": "2026-05-20T17:30:03+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tioyc7/going_to_hit_7figures_in_revenue_in_ecommerce/omwi5yp/", "content": "I have a pretty good track record of improving the set ups I've come across, so I'm not operating from a mindset of scarcity. I'm fairly confident in what I can offer.\n Thanks for the tips! Ps, merely as a curiosity, do you pay yourself a salary? I have a few businesses that I run as a hobby that could be qualified as e-commerce, but I am not taking any of their life blood. Unsure as to when starting to do it" }, { "id": "t1_omwiujs", "author": "/u/maddogyamad", "updated": "2026-05-20T17:33:02+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tioyc7/going_to_hit_7figures_in_revenue_in_ecommerce/omwiujs/", "content": "Yep perfect. Just show them that. The proof is in the pudding, so if you’ve got the numbers to show new clients and case studies, do that. Will give you a lot more credibility. But just remember asking for equity is a big ask, so you want to walk the walk.\n You’re welcome. Mate I didn’t touch a dime for a very long time. Even now I’m making next to nothing compared to what people assume. Why take a small chunk now when I can take a bigger pay later ;) but to answer your question, I do, but let’s just say I’m not driving a Lamborghini haha." }, { "id": "t1_omwk5e6", "author": "/u/AggressiveRemote1402", "updated": "2026-05-20T17:38:49+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tioyc7/going_to_hit_7figures_in_revenue_in_ecommerce/omwk5e6/", "content": "Yeah I always think that my first exit is the one that'll pay me a normal lifestyle for the rest of my early retirement, the future ones will be the Lambo and boat with fat chicks in bikini ones, haha! Cheers" }, { "id": "t1_omwkgre", "author": "/u/maddogyamad", "updated": "2026-05-20T17:40:14+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tioyc7/going_to_hit_7figures_in_revenue_in_ecommerce/omwkgre/", "content": "Hahaha that’s it brother. All the best with it! See you on the Mediterranean in a few years! Haha." }, { "id": "t1_on0lrdq", "author": "/u/Miamiconnectionexo", "updated": "2026-05-21T07:46:00+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tioyc7/going_to_hit_7figures_in_revenue_in_ecommerce/on0lrdq/", "content": "glad someone said this. been thinking the same thing for a while." }, { "id": "t1_omw5bvt", "author": "/u/Aktalha", "updated": "2026-05-20T16:33:51+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tioyc7/going_to_hit_7figures_in_revenue_in_ecommerce/omw5bvt/", "content": "What product are you selling and how did you come up with? I want to start something of my own but i feel im extremely dumb to not know what to sell, i feel the market is saturated and nothing niche could be found! What's your thought process? Please guide me if possible, i don't have enough money to purchases courses but i want to know things. Thank you" }, { "id": "t1_omw6m2y", "author": "/u/maddogyamad", "updated": "2026-05-20T16:39:31+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tioyc7/going_to_hit_7figures_in_revenue_in_ecommerce/omw6m2y/", "content": "I sell products in the health and wellness space. I just saw a common problem and created a solution. Nah I don’t think you’re dumb, you just need to learn that’s all. Which takes time. There’s alway something niche. You don’t need to reinvent the wheel, just create something people will buy to solve their problem. And do it better than anyone else. You don’t need courses, there is so much free advice out there. The people who sell you their courses, you’re their niche haha.\n Start by identifying a problem within your life. Could be a product or service that could be better, could be a pain point that you or others have. Maybe something at your work place? Then that’s when you start researching how you can solve it and charge money for it. How you can do it better than anyone else, or create an offer that’s too good to say no. Just start small. Write some things down, ask reddit if others have the same problem. Then see what competitors are doing and what they’re lacking. That will help you with your answer. Anyone can start a business or a side hustle, it’s just the persons commitment and risk they’re willing to put in. As well as not bail when the going gets tough (cause it will!)" }, { "id": "t1_omwj2ek", "author": "/u/mozzarellaguy", "updated": "2026-05-20T17:34:01+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tioyc7/going_to_hit_7figures_in_revenue_in_ecommerce/omwj2ek/", "content": "What was your budget when you started ?" }, { "id": "t1_omwjsli", "author": "/u/maddogyamad", "updated": "2026-05-20T17:37:15+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tioyc7/going_to_hit_7figures_in_revenue_in_ecommerce/omwjsli/", "content": "Yeah good question. I boot strapped everything so I started with $20,000. However, if you do enough research and create a good enough pitch, you can start with next to nothing. Just get friends, family etc to invest, but you need to be able to show you’ve done your homework. Or do what I did and work your backside off with a lot of overtime and sell the shit you don’t need to take the risk." }, { "id": "t1_omwk7lc", "author": "/u/maddogyamad", "updated": "2026-05-20T17:39:06+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tioyc7/going_to_hit_7figures_in_revenue_in_ecommerce/omwk7lc/", "content": "Also that covered everything from MOW manufacturing, marketing, insurances, packaging, freight etc. so costs will vary for others" }, { "id": "t1_omwkkub", "author": "/u/lowley6", "updated": "2026-05-20T17:40:45+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tioyc7/going_to_hit_7figures_in_revenue_in_ecommerce/omwkkub/", "content": "how did you reach your target audience, what amount of capital was required to do so (if at all)?" }, { "id": "t1_omwl0yi", "author": "/u/maddogyamad", "updated": "2026-05-20T17:42:44+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tioyc7/going_to_hit_7figures_in_revenue_in_ecommerce/omwl0yi/", "content": "For me it was through meta ads, a good offer, organic (word of mouth) and personal outreach. For others it can be personal branding, UGC marketing, affiliate and so forth. I boot strapped everything close to 20k. But could have done with less and believe people can start with $0" }, { "id": "t1_omwkwdl", "author": "/u/CoyoteOk69", "updated": "2026-05-20T17:42:10+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tioyc7/going_to_hit_7figures_in_revenue_in_ecommerce/omwkwdl/", "content": "Can you give advice to someone who has trouble getting started in entrepreneurship? I just feel intimidated by the whole idea and don't even know where to start. I've always worked for someone else for a living, I work in Tech and have always gotten a paycheck and then my evenings and weekends are for me and to do hobbies. But I know in this environment white collar work is no longer guaranteed and I need to look into being some sort of a creator or entrepreneur. Is there any advice you can offer so I can start thinking of what I can even offer the world?" }, { "id": "t1_omwlwbk", "author": "/u/maddogyamad", "updated": "2026-05-20T17:46:36+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tioyc7/going_to_hit_7figures_in_revenue_in_ecommerce/omwlwbk/", "content": "The best place to start is educate yourself into becoming an entrepreneur. Let’s say you wanted to be a body builder right? It’s different from picking up a few weights from time to time to build muscle. You’d study how others became body builders, diet and nutrition, competitors to enter, sleep, supplements and so forth. Same is with entrepreneurship. You need to feed your mind. Not so much read every book out there and try and be like Elon musk or bill gates. But start listening to podcast, watch YouTube videos and listen to his others have started. If you’re stuck at where to begin, listen to “how to get rich” by naval Ravikant. Very click bait title but so much good value within it. Start there and you’ll grow into an entrepreneur" }, { "id": "t1_omwnrp0", "author": "/u/CoyoteOk69", "updated": "2026-05-20T17:54:48+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tioyc7/going_to_hit_7figures_in_revenue_in_ecommerce/omwnrp0/", "content": "Thank you!" }, { "id": "t1_omwo63u", "author": "/u/maddogyamad", "updated": "2026-05-20T17:56:33+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tioyc7/going_to_hit_7figures_in_revenue_in_ecommerce/omwo63u/", "content": "You’re welcome! Best of luck!" }, { "id": "t1_omwwkop", "author": "/u/BreakYaNeck99", "updated": "2026-05-20T18:34:19+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tioyc7/going_to_hit_7figures_in_revenue_in_ecommerce/omwwkop/", "content": "How do you generate traffic?" }, { "id": "t1_omxswnl", "author": "/u/maddogyamad", "updated": "2026-05-20T21:08:43+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tioyc7/going_to_hit_7figures_in_revenue_in_ecommerce/omxswnl/", "content": "Mainly though Meta ads for my current business. Otherwise there is organic traffic and TikTok ads and personal branding" }, { "id": "t1_onas1v5", "author": "/u/matjaaaaa", "updated": "2026-05-22T19:07:01+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tioyc7/going_to_hit_7figures_in_revenue_in_ecommerce/onas1v5/", "content": "Hi! How much do you spend on ad? And what’s the ROAS?" }, { "id": "t1_ondy3yf", "author": "/u/maddogyamad", "updated": "2026-05-23T06:49:02+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tioyc7/going_to_hit_7figures_in_revenue_in_ecommerce/ondy3yf/", "content": "Depends on the campaign really. Started out with an ad spend of approx $1000 - $2000 a month in the early days and now it can be anywhere up to 6 figures. Each campaign ROAS varies. But all ads are doing more than 4:1. If they do less after a/b testing and has a high CPA and low engagement, my team looks into this and refines. Establishes why it didn’t work or tries different keywords, CTA’s etc." }, { "id": "t1_omwxs19", "author": "/u/scaleordietrying", "updated": "2026-05-20T18:39:52+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tioyc7/going_to_hit_7figures_in_revenue_in_ecommerce/omwxs19/", "content": "Where/how did you learn Creative Strategy?" }, { "id": "t1_omxt8fh", "author": "/u/maddogyamad", "updated": "2026-05-20T21:10:35+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tioyc7/going_to_hit_7figures_in_revenue_in_ecommerce/omxt8fh/", "content": "I’m a big strategy man. I think creative strategy and strategic planning is something that is good at all stages of business, but don’t let it weigh you down to as such that it takes away the importance which is essentially selling. Big believer of having a strategy for each quarter and setting yourself realistic goals and targets to hit" }, { "id": "t1_omye05t", "author": "/u/scaleordietrying", "updated": "2026-05-20T23:03:38+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tioyc7/going_to_hit_7figures_in_revenue_in_ecommerce/omye05t/", "content": "Yeah but how does your Creative Strategy process look like? Creative Strategy is so important, even on scale" }, { "id": "t1_omwxy5j", "author": "/u/Prestigious-Owl-52", "updated": "2026-05-20T18:40:39+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tioyc7/going_to_hit_7figures_in_revenue_in_ecommerce/omwxy5j/", "content": "How do you go from zero to good contact with a whitelabel manufacturer that is willing to make your product? How does that work from start to first products Thanks for your time" }, { "id": "t1_omxtq0n", "author": "/u/maddogyamad", "updated": "2026-05-20T21:13:22+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tioyc7/going_to_hit_7figures_in_revenue_in_ecommerce/omxtq0n/", "content": "Hi there! Well manufacturers are in the business to make money and essentially want your business. So I think if you approach them with your plan and discuss MOQs and build a relationship with them, they’ll take you on. You might have to email and call (definitely call them) 50 but it only takes one to agree to take you on. So come up with a plan, reach out to them and describe who you are and what you are planning on doing and have a few loaded questions and responses for them. Make sure you know your shit before going in so you aren’t umming and arring to their responses. But like I said, they are there to make money as well. As long as you’ve got a market to sell to, they’ll take you" }, { "id": "t1_on0fnc3", "author": "/u/Prestigious-Owl-52", "updated": "2026-05-21T06:53:11+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tioyc7/going_to_hit_7figures_in_revenue_in_ecommerce/on0fnc3/", "content": "Thank you for that perspective, they need our business too. With a good plan/market they wouldn't want to miss that earnings opportunity." }, { "id": "t1_on0ppuw", "author": "/u/maddogyamad", "updated": "2026-05-21T08:21:20+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tioyc7/going_to_hit_7figures_in_revenue_in_ecommerce/on0ppuw/", "content": "That’s exactly right. If you’re going to make them money, they’ll take you on. So don’t think they are some scary corporation that will cut you down. Just be sure to negotiate MOQ and maybe even payment terms? They’ll try and get you to order as much as they can, but early on you need to test the market. So don’t over order but also don’t under order where you run out of stock." }, { "id": "t1_on4so9i", "author": "/u/Prestigious-Owl-52", "updated": "2026-05-21T21:19:08+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tioyc7/going_to_hit_7figures_in_revenue_in_ecommerce/on4so9i/", "content": "What are common practices for payment terms?\n Thanks again :)" }, { "id": "t1_on4trzx", "author": "/u/maddogyamad", "updated": "2026-05-21T21:24:42+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tioyc7/going_to_hit_7figures_in_revenue_in_ecommerce/on4trzx/", "content": "Each manufacturer is different but generally the first payment will be cash on delivery (COD) but once you build a good B2B relationship with them, you can negotiate terms and pricing. Even end of month (EOM) payment, Net 60 where you have 60 days to pay the invoice and so on. But these all require a good relationship. At first I’d start with the minimum order quantity (MOQ) you can get, pay their payment terms and then prove you can sell that and then after that, you can negotiate terms a bit more. Like I said, each manufacturer is different." }, { "id": "t1_omwyybm", "author": "/u/Novel_Judge6431", "updated": "2026-05-20T18:45:14+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tioyc7/going_to_hit_7figures_in_revenue_in_ecommerce/omwyybm/", "content": "Is it a digital product or a physical product? Can you describe your funnel? Meta ad straight to Shopify purchase page?" }, { "id": "t1_omxtyz8", "author": "/u/maddogyamad", "updated": "2026-05-20T21:14:46+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tioyc7/going_to_hit_7figures_in_revenue_in_ecommerce/omxtyz8/", "content": "I sell a physical product(s). Yeah pretty much TOF and MOF ad strategy through meta ads as well as email marketing and retention strategy to then send them to the website and then ultimately convert. Then use other methods to retain them again." }, { "id": "t1_omwyzib", "author": "/u/HourCookie2809", "updated": "2026-05-20T18:45:23+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tioyc7/going_to_hit_7figures_in_revenue_in_ecommerce/omwyzib/", "content": "How do you deal with competitors who would likely copy your products or low ball your prices or the market with Chinese products ? Also could you share the steps you take for product research , Any tools that you make use of ?" }, { "id": "t1_omxukuh", "author": "/u/maddogyamad", "updated": "2026-05-20T21:18:14+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tioyc7/going_to_hit_7figures_in_revenue_in_ecommerce/omxukuh/", "content": "Thankfully I don’t really have to compete with cheap Chinese knock offs, but I have helped businesses in the past that have this problem. You need to ensure that you offer quality and service. Comes down to you get what you pay for. If you want a cheap product, long shipping times with little to no customer service, then they’ll opt for Chinese products. But if they want good shipping, quality products, follow up emails and good customer service, that’s where you set yourself above them and can charge premium pricing.\n Yeah I think start with the customer first and generate feedback on what they want and expect, especially against competitors. Listening to your customer is very important. Then you build your product or service around them. Get into forums, chat groups, subreddits, facebook pages, community groups and so forth and just listen. You’ll be surprised how much that shapes your business model" }, { "id": "t1_omx95fo", "author": "/u/BotherFantastic9287", "updated": "2026-05-20T19:32:19+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tioyc7/going_to_hit_7figures_in_revenue_in_ecommerce/omx95fo/", "content": "what bottleneck surprised you the most once the business actually started scaling like the thing that barely mattered at low revenue then suddenly became a daily problem" }, { "id": "t1_omxwmms", "author": "/u/maddogyamad", "updated": "2026-05-20T21:28:47+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tioyc7/going_to_hit_7figures_in_revenue_in_ecommerce/omxwmms/", "content": "Biggest surprise was that getting sales wasn’t the hardest part. It was getting customers to come back consistently. At low revenue, every new order feels like growth, but once you scale, retention, subscriptions, email flows, reorder timing and LTV become the real bottleneck. I think luckily with my business it’s a product that people use and come back to regularly, unlike something that requires a lot of acquisition (eg a food selling model VS luggage. One they need to replenish and the other is a one off purchase). Once I figured that out it became easier and the CPA wasn’t a big worry due to focusing more on LTV" }, { "id": "t1_omxmyn5", "author": "", "updated": "2026-05-20T20:36:58+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tioyc7/going_to_hit_7figures_in_revenue_in_ecommerce/omxmyn5/", "content": "[deleted]" }, { "id": "t1_omxydhx", "author": "/u/maddogyamad", "updated": "2026-05-20T21:37:37+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tioyc7/going_to_hit_7figures_in_revenue_in_ecommerce/omxydhx/", "content": "Thank you. I think the best bet is to reach out to creators who are at a point where they need this service. I think creators who are just making a few bucks here and there probably don’t need a service like this, but ones who are starting to make a serious amount of money could benefit from such thing. Maybe just reach out to them and have a honest conversation saying what you provide and then send them some more information. Ones you get a few in the door, then use their testimonials to bring on more clients. You can show other creators who you’ve worked with the past (if they are happy for you to) and showcase the benefits of how much money and time they’ve saved through your services." }, { "id": "t1_omxnjtr", "author": "/u/Terrible_Bug_7015", "updated": "2026-05-20T20:39:57+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tioyc7/going_to_hit_7figures_in_revenue_in_ecommerce/omxnjtr/", "content": "Hey, congratulations on reaching this milestone!! I was reading your replies to other comments and it's genuinely amazing to see someone this invested in helping others. Thank you for that!\n I've got a perfumes and cosmetics brand in UAE (family-run), and we want to get sales started. Some momentum begun for our cheapest products which barely have premium, but the actual perfumes are not getting sold. We can't reduce our prices through discounts too often because they're inches away from the COGS, so we're just stuck hoping something works out. What do you think we should do next?\n As additional context, we've tried to get some posts started on instagram (static+influencer collabs) and followers are growing gradually. We run meta ads but they barely get likes and we're not sure if it's getting us orders. We are on most marketplaces too (which is where all the sales till now have come from, not our website directly)." }, { "id": "t1_omxyu4l", "author": "/u/maddogyamad", "updated": "2026-05-20T21:39:56+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tioyc7/going_to_hit_7figures_in_revenue_in_ecommerce/omxyu4l/", "content": "More than welcome! Happy to help out where I can.\n I don’t think you have a discount problem, I think you have an offer problem. If the cheaper products are selling but the perfumes aren’t, the market is basically saying the premium product doesn’t feel low-risk or valuable enough yet. I’d stop relying on ads and posts to magically fix it and first work out exactly where sales are coming from. Then I’d create an easier entry point: samples, discovery sets, bundles, a “find your scent” quiz, reviews, UGC and a stronger reason why your perfume is different. Perfume is hard to sell cold because people can’t smell it through a screen, so your job is to make it easier to try, easier to trust and easier to buy." }, { "id": "t1_omxtvrr", "author": "/u/CartCPA", "updated": "2026-05-20T21:14:16+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tioyc7/going_to_hit_7figures_in_revenue_in_ecommerce/omxtvrr/", "content": "A little biased here as a CPA: but what does your accounting look like? Do you have your own internal accountant/bookkeeper or outsource? Just curious because its kind of a mixed bag with my clients. At that level, some choose to hire there own internal employee, some still outsource, and believe it not some the founder is still doing it all on Excel themselves!" }, { "id": "t1_omxzk1v", "author": "/u/maddogyamad", "updated": "2026-05-20T21:43:34+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tioyc7/going_to_hit_7figures_in_revenue_in_ecommerce/omxzk1v/", "content": "I think I answered this question before, not entirely sure if it was this thread or a DM.\n I think it comes down to what level of business they are at. Early in the startup phase you can get away with using excel, Airtable and so on. Then come around tax time you can use an account for the duration of that time. I think early on to save costs you can do it on your own for most businesses. As long as you’re tracking your cashflow and have what you need come tax time, you’re fine. But as you scale, bring on employees and it gets a bit too difficult to control on your own, that’s when you get an accountant. Generally you know when the time is right." }, { "id": "t1_omyh0ho", "author": "/u/CartCPA", "updated": "2026-05-20T23:20:43+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tioyc7/going_to_hit_7figures_in_revenue_in_ecommerce/omyh0ho/", "content": "Sorry my bad. Accidently posted this question twice! thanks for the 2nd reply though!" }, { "id": "t1_omxukd3", "author": "/u/CartCPA", "updated": "2026-05-20T21:18:10+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tioyc7/going_to_hit_7figures_in_revenue_in_ecommerce/omxukd3/", "content": "I might be a little biased here as a CPA, but how do you handle your bookkeeping/accounting? At that level some choose to hire their own internal employee, some outsource, and believe it or not some founders still do it themselves on Excel spreadsheets!" }, { "id": "t1_omxxfl9", "author": "/u/maddogyamad", "updated": "2026-05-20T21:32:50+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tioyc7/going_to_hit_7figures_in_revenue_in_ecommerce/omxxfl9/", "content": "For a very long time I just used Airtable and handled it myself. I used other programs for tax related stuff. Really you just need to keep a record of your cash flow and thankfully Shopify helps a lot with that. Once you bring on employees and deal with contractors regularly, that’s when you need to look for something else. But if you can save costs and manage it yourself, that’s an overhead you can save on. You see so many startups hiring digital marketing agencies, accountants, 3rd party distributors, sales team and so on which just chews into their margins. You can do everything yourself in the early days and you know when the time is right to outsource." }, { "id": "t1_omyc75p", "author": "/u/CartCPA", "updated": "2026-05-20T22:52:44+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tioyc7/going_to_hit_7figures_in_revenue_in_ecommerce/omyc75p/", "content": "Hitting 7-figures on Airtable is an absolute badge of honor—major props on keeping overhead lean to protect those early margins.\n You made a really interesting point about Shopify helping out with cash flow tracking, and that's usually where things get wild for brands at your scale. The biggest trap I see 7-figure founders fall into is trusting the Shopify dashboard as their single source of truth.\n Shopify is great at showing gross sales, but it doesn't automatically track platform fee leakage, timing differences on payouts, or sales tax liabilities across multiple states. When you rely solely on raw channel reports at $1M+ revenue, you usually find out during year-end tax prep or due diligence that your real net margins look entirely different than the dashboard claimed.\n Out of curiosity, now that you're hitting 7-figures, are you still managing inventory on a cash basis inside Airtable, or have you had to switch to an accrual-basis setup to map out true product margins?" }, { "id": "t1_on03hsk", "author": "/u/maddogyamad", "updated": "2026-05-21T05:13:57+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tioyc7/going_to_hit_7figures_in_revenue_in_ecommerce/on03hsk/", "content": "Oh I definitely wouldn’t rely solely on shopify and I didn’t. Just saying it’s good in the fact that it does help keep some records. But I kept my own table that tracked everything from my MER, overheads, COGS etc. Also for used Xero for my tax side of things, but I definitely don’t track everything myself in Airtable these days. I did for quite sometime earlier one but once I started hiring and the business scaled, I brought someone on." }, { "id": "t1_omxyi9y", "author": "/u/Overall-Low-8112", "updated": "2026-05-20T21:38:17+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tioyc7/going_to_hit_7figures_in_revenue_in_ecommerce/omxyi9y/", "content": "Looking to hire? 😂" }, { "id": "t1_omy18jy", "author": "/u/maddogyamad", "updated": "2026-05-20T21:52:09+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tioyc7/going_to_hit_7figures_in_revenue_in_ecommerce/omy18jy/", "content": "Hahaha you’d be surprised how many people have DM’ed me saying the same thing" }, { "id": "t1_omxzakj", "author": "/u/Ok_Firefighter3363", "updated": "2026-05-20T21:42:14+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tioyc7/going_to_hit_7figures_in_revenue_in_ecommerce/omxzakj/", "content": "How did you select products, how did you arrange the capital & cash flow, 3 places you'd market in 2026 if you started from 0" }, { "id": "t1_omy0310", "author": "/u/maddogyamad", "updated": "2026-05-20T21:46:15+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tioyc7/going_to_hit_7figures_in_revenue_in_ecommerce/omy0310/", "content": "I selected the products around the customer I was marketing to. As for the capital I raised it on my own by bootstrapping it all. I think if I had to choose 3 I’d look into relationships, finance and health & wellness. All 3 are important aspects of anyone’s lives and people are willing to invest a lot of money into. So if you can do something to strengthen or better any of these aspects in someone’s lives, you’ve got yourself a source of money." }, { "id": "t1_omy2mso", "author": "/u/Fearless_Tangelo_985", "updated": "2026-05-20T21:59:24+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tioyc7/going_to_hit_7figures_in_revenue_in_ecommerce/omy2mso/", "content": "where can i learned to start from ground zero?" }, { "id": "t1_omy3frg", "author": "/u/maddogyamad", "updated": "2026-05-20T22:03:39+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tioyc7/going_to_hit_7figures_in_revenue_in_ecommerce/omy3frg/", "content": "I think the beautiful thing with today is our access to so many resources on the internet. Not sure if you enjoy reading but have a look at The Lean Startup by Eric Ries or 12 months to 1 million by Ryan Daniel Moran. They are good starting books. Then move onto the $100m money models by Alex Hormozi. Soak in as much information as you can. Write notes. Watch YouTube videos. Listen to podcasts. You’re at the learning stage. Once you get your head wrapped around entrepreneurship, then you can start putting together your puzzle. Just don’t go from stage 1 to stage 10. Understand things take time and you’ll reap the benefits eventually. It’s like saying you want to be a surgeon. You’re not gonna go into open heart surgery from the get go. You need to do years of college, internship, residency, further study and then you’ll get to the operating table. Same as busines. Start small, grow big." }, { "id": "t1_omybqfu", "author": "/u/He_ofshadowsandtouch", "updated": "2026-05-20T22:49:54+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tioyc7/going_to_hit_7figures_in_revenue_in_ecommerce/omybqfu/", "content": "Listening to a radio show and callers were saying they have stopped using tech agencies/ consultants, and use AI to do everything now such as SEO" }, { "id": "t1_on03mhe", "author": "/u/maddogyamad", "updated": "2026-05-21T05:14:58+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tioyc7/going_to_hit_7figures_in_revenue_in_ecommerce/on03mhe/", "content": "Yeah with the introduction of AI, can definitely outsource some of your work to that to save in costs for sure. Just got to know what you’re asking and to what limit they can provide" }, { "id": "t1_omyo1iu", "author": "/u/ForeXcellence", "updated": "2026-05-21T00:01:19+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tioyc7/going_to_hit_7figures_in_revenue_in_ecommerce/omyo1iu/", "content": "If you had to start all over again tomorrow, what would you do?" }, { "id": "t1_on03vuf", "author": "/u/maddogyamad", "updated": "2026-05-21T05:17:01+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tioyc7/going_to_hit_7figures_in_revenue_in_ecommerce/on03vuf/", "content": "Great question. Depends if I still have the skills that I’ve learnt. If so, it would be something within the likes of health and wellness, relationship or financial side of things. People always spend big money. I think there’s also a lot in tech with SaaS products and know that vibe coding is a thing, you can make an app or program without having to do any coding or hiring a dev team. So that would be something I’d look at." }, { "id": "t1_omys7zy", "author": "/u/PomeloResponsible791", "updated": "2026-05-21T00:25:34+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tioyc7/going_to_hit_7figures_in_revenue_in_ecommerce/omys7zy/", "content": "Can we see the site?" }, { "id": "t1_on03z7j", "author": "/u/maddogyamad", "updated": "2026-05-21T05:17:45+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tioyc7/going_to_hit_7figures_in_revenue_in_ecommerce/on03z7j/", "content": "I prefer not to show my websites for competition reasons" }, { "id": "t1_omyxf0b", "author": "/u/No_Ninja_944", "updated": "2026-05-21T00:55:24+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tioyc7/going_to_hit_7figures_in_revenue_in_ecommerce/omyxf0b/", "content": "I work in metal sculpture, and I want to enter the international market. Which platform is better to use?" }, { "id": "t1_on04117", "author": "/u/maddogyamad", "updated": "2026-05-21T05:18:09+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tioyc7/going_to_hit_7figures_in_revenue_in_ecommerce/on04117/", "content": "How have you done in the local and national market?" }, { "id": "t1_on1sj8j", "author": "/u/No_Ninja_944", "updated": "2026-05-21T12:58:14+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tioyc7/going_to_hit_7figures_in_revenue_in_ecommerce/on1sj8j/", "content": "The market in my own country is quite good, but it's too competitive now, with very low profits and difficult to collect payments. 🥲🥲🥲🥲" }, { "id": "t1_on1terl", "author": "/u/maddogyamad", "updated": "2026-05-21T13:02:57+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tioyc7/going_to_hit_7figures_in_revenue_in_ecommerce/on1terl/", "content": "What makes you think it will be better in other countries? Have you thought of the cost of international shipping? Language barriers? Tarrifs and taxes? Returns? Customs? Overall logistics? The competition internationally? Shipping times?\n Going international straight away without establishing a brand within your own domain is very hard. It can be done but there are multiple hoops to jump through and with little to no (assuming) experience in online entrepreneurship, it can be hard.\n Also doing metal sculptures, assuming you’re creating them, I’m guessing they are somewhat big in size? I think you could find yourself in a logistical nightmare when it comes to shipping and returns.\n Also have you researched the market in the country origin? Is this something people are actually buying and at a good enough price it will cover shipping, other overheads and then leave you with profit? These are all things to consider." }, { "id": "t1_omz6at9", "author": "/u/dannykl17", "updated": "2026-05-21T01:44:54+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tioyc7/going_to_hit_7figures_in_revenue_in_ecommerce/omz6at9/", "content": "Hey! Firstly, thanks for this! Extremely generous of you.\n I’ve been in e-commerce for a while now, but I only sell on eBay. I sell second hand clothing and had my best year last year of around £230k in sales on eBay. I do feel like I’ve got quite a few bottlenecks that need sorting tbh.\n But, this year I’ve actually decided to start to build my own Shopify. I’m super excited as I feel I needed to progress with what I’m doing otherwise I just feel… bored!\n I’ve got a background in graphic design so I feel like I have a solid visual aspect, but diving in to marketing will be completely new to me.\n I was wondering if there’s a basic step by step you follow for getting a brand off the ground? E.g, whenever anybody asks me about eBay I always tell them to get the basics perfect, photography, description, item specifics, customer service etc.\n I was wondering if this is something similar to SEO, PPC and general marketing etc? Almost as if there’s obvious basic steps to take!\n Thanks again 😊" }, { "id": "t1_on0p6tt", "author": "/u/maddogyamad", "updated": "2026-05-21T08:16:32+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tioyc7/going_to_hit_7figures_in_revenue_in_ecommerce/on0p6tt/", "content": "Hey there! Thank you for the kind words.\n Honestly, you’re already ahead of most people because you’ve proven you can sell. £230k on eBay isn’t “trying ecommerce,” that’s a real business. So congrats to you! The mistake a lot of people make when moving to Shopify is thinking the website itself creates demand. eBay gives you built-in traffic and intent. Shopify gives you control, brand and margins, but now you need to create the attention yourself. Ther good news is the fundamentals are actually very similar to eBay. strong product selection, great photos, trust, customer experience and consistency still matter massively. The difference is now you need distribution on top of that. I’d focus on building an audience around your taste and eye for products rather than just listing clothes. Organic content, email capture, repeat customers and brand identity become huge. SEO and PPC matter, but they amplify a good brand, they don’t create one from scratch. Your graphic design background is honestly a massive advantage because most second-hand stores look terrible visually." }, { "id": "t1_on17bjw", "author": "/u/dannykl17", "updated": "2026-05-21T10:49:23+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tioyc7/going_to_hit_7figures_in_revenue_in_ecommerce/on17bjw/", "content": "Hey!\n Thanks so much for this reply and really do appreciate your kind words!\n Yeah I feel like I’ve got my basic fundamentals down with selling on eBay, but obviously I know shopify is a whole new ballgame!\n Okay that’s great advice thank you! When you say create an audience, do you recommend doing this via socials? Sorry if this is obvious but this is completely new to me. Also, email capture, is this when I see ‘sign up to the newsletter for 20% off’ kinda thing?\n Thanks again 😊" }, { "id": "t1_on17rv1", "author": "/u/maddogyamad", "updated": "2026-05-21T10:52:37+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tioyc7/going_to_hit_7figures_in_revenue_in_ecommerce/on17rv1/", "content": "Yeah exactly, socials are probably the best place to start because with Shopify you need attention before you get sales. Especially with second-hand clothing, people buy based on taste, personality and curation, so platforms like TikTok, Instagram and Pinterest can work really well. I’d document the process too, pickups, favourite finds, styling ideas, behind the scenes, etc. You’re not just selling clothes anymore, you’re building a brand people follow because they like your eye for products. Personal branding these days is massive. How many times have you found yourself watching someone’s ’a day in the life’ and find yourself attentive towards it? People love that shit.\n And yeah, email capture is exactly that sort of thing. “Get 10% off your first order,” “early access to new drops,” “exclusive vintage finds,” etc. The goal is basically to turn random visitors into people you can contact again later because most people won’t buy the first time they visit." }, { "id": "t1_on18zn3", "author": "/u/dannykl17", "updated": "2026-05-21T11:01:13+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tioyc7/going_to_hit_7figures_in_revenue_in_ecommerce/on18zn3/", "content": "Yeah that’s something that’s somewhat new to me! My main issue is time at the moment. I’ve built so many automated processes for my eBay so far which is why I’m starting to find time to do other things, hence starting shopify!\n I definitely agree with ‘a day in the life’ as that is a huge thing right now. So I do appreciate that advice, thanks!\n Once my shopify is done I’ll get back on Pinterest, insta, Facebook etc. I’ve built quite a lot of automations for pins for Pinterest which was quite good, so I’ll try and implement that to other parts of the social side as well.\n Thanks so much for your help!" }, { "id": "t1_on19529", "author": "/u/maddogyamad", "updated": "2026-05-21T11:02:19+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tioyc7/going_to_hit_7figures_in_revenue_in_ecommerce/on19529/", "content": "You’re welcome. I look forward to hear your success, bottlenecks and journey! Just stick at it! It’ll be the hardest and most enjoyable thing you do." }, { "id": "t1_omza20l", "author": "/u/maskdowngasup", "updated": "2026-05-21T02:05:08+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tioyc7/going_to_hit_7figures_in_revenue_in_ecommerce/omza20l/", "content": "What’s your take home profit per month?" }, { "id": "t1_on0pgq7", "author": "/u/maddogyamad", "updated": "2026-05-21T08:19:02+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tioyc7/going_to_hit_7figures_in_revenue_in_ecommerce/on0pgq7/", "content": "No where near as much as you’d think. I reinvest a great majority to upscale the business. I’ll make my money when I exit the company" }, { "id": "t1_on00la2", "author": "/u/ClerkPleasant9520", "updated": "2026-05-21T04:51:52+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tioyc7/going_to_hit_7figures_in_revenue_in_ecommerce/on00la2/", "content": "Looking to start a bushings with money coming to me... would love your advice on how to start" }, { "id": "t1_on0pelu", "author": "/u/maddogyamad", "updated": "2026-05-21T08:18:30+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tioyc7/going_to_hit_7figures_in_revenue_in_ecommerce/on0pelu/", "content": "Research your market and create a product or service that people need and are willing to spend money on" }, { "id": "t1_on0cayz", "author": "/u/ovenbakedbreadd", "updated": "2026-05-21T06:25:05+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tioyc7/going_to_hit_7figures_in_revenue_in_ecommerce/on0cayz/", "content": "what would be the few things to keep in mind when starting in e-commerce? truthfully i’m keen on looking into dropshipping, but the tariffs and oil crisis makes me bent on starting" }, { "id": "t1_on0pd29", "author": "/u/maddogyamad", "updated": "2026-05-21T08:18:05+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tioyc7/going_to_hit_7figures_in_revenue_in_ecommerce/on0pd29/", "content": "I’d keep three things in mind. First, dropshipping isn’t the business model, it’s just the fulfilment method. The real business is finding a product people already want, creating an offer that feels different, and getting traffic profitably. Second, don’t build around razor-thin margins. Tariffs, shipping, refunds and ad costs will destroy you if there’s no room. Third, test small before you go all in. One product, one clear customer, one strong angle, a simple landing page, and a few creatives. The goal isn’t to “start an ecommerce store,” it’s to prove you can sell one product profitably before adding complexity. It won’t be easy like people make it out to be. But with grit, termination, risk and a sprinkle of luck, you’ll do well." }, { "id": "t1_on0zitz", "author": "/u/Miamiconnectionexo", "updated": "2026-05-21T09:48:52+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tioyc7/going_to_hit_7figures_in_revenue_in_ecommerce/on0zitz/", "content": "appreciate the honest breakdown. most people sugarcoat this kind of thing." }, { "id": "t1_on0zl7c", "author": "/u/maddogyamad", "updated": "2026-05-21T09:49:24+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tioyc7/going_to_hit_7figures_in_revenue_in_ecommerce/on0zl7c/", "content": "You’re welcome!" }, { "id": "t1_on11lqd", "author": "/u/MHSinging", "updated": "2026-05-21T10:05:51+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tioyc7/going_to_hit_7figures_in_revenue_in_ecommerce/on11lqd/", "content": "I got burned pretty hard by some issues with a product some time ago, but looking to get back into e-commerce.\n How do you go about actually finding worthwhile products, and then setting up a new product?\n I used to order a small sample size and sell them without a brand to gauge how well it would sell, and after that I would register a brandname and have a branded batch produced.\n Do you accept that sometimes you just have to spend some money on a product that might end up not selling?\n I would exclusively sell products over an e-com marketplace here in the Netherlands similar to Amazon FBA (bol.com)" }, { "id": "t1_on1225d", "author": "/u/maddogyamad", "updated": "2026-05-21T10:09:28+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tioyc7/going_to_hit_7figures_in_revenue_in_ecommerce/on1225d/", "content": "Yeah I think you have to accept that some product testing will cost money, but the goal is to make the test as cheap and informative as possible. I wouldn’t jump straight into a full branded batch unless you’ve got signals first. I’d look for products where demand already exists, reviews show clear pain points, competitors are selling but have obvious weaknesses, and you can improve the offer somehow, whether that’s quality, bundle, positioning, speed, instructions, packaging or trust. Your old method isn’t bad. small sample, test demand, then brand it properly. I’d just add more validation before buying stock, like checking marketplace search volume, competitor sales, reviews, margins, refund risk and whether you can actually differentiate. You can’t remove risk completely, but you can avoid gambling blindly." }, { "id": "t1_on1438r", "author": "/u/Illustrious_Pair_466", "updated": "2026-05-21T10:25:20+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tioyc7/going_to_hit_7figures_in_revenue_in_ecommerce/on1438r/", "content": "I am also planning to build a shopify website - i am more interested in clothing business and i am from india\n But don’t know, how to start, where to start" }, { "id": "t1_on15apz", "author": "/u/maddogyamad", "updated": "2026-05-21T10:34:33+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tioyc7/going_to_hit_7figures_in_revenue_in_ecommerce/on15apz/", "content": "Hey there! Clothing is a very competitive market and hard to tap into. But with determination and a unique selling point, you can. Just know it’s going to be a hard journey. You just need to situate your business in a way that is better or unique than everyone else. Whether it be through quality, price, deliverability, style, niche market (eg baby clothing, work wear etc)." }, { "id": "t1_on15lw0", "author": "/u/Illustrious_Pair_466", "updated": "2026-05-21T10:36:51+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tioyc7/going_to_hit_7figures_in_revenue_in_ecommerce/on15lw0/", "content": "How can i find genuine supplier in india?\n Any idea?\n Basically, i am not looking for POD model, i want to build my own brand with own designs" }, { "id": "t1_on1778z", "author": "/u/maddogyamad", "updated": "2026-05-21T10:48:30+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tioyc7/going_to_hit_7figures_in_revenue_in_ecommerce/on1778z/", "content": "I’m sorry I don’t really know much about suppliers in India. My advice would be to look online or ask people in relevant groups and simply contact them. Just need to find out what type of supply you’re looking for and how much you can afford to purchase and then bring to market based off the market pricing and competitors" }, { "id": "t1_on14cvs", "author": "/u/Any-Entertainment934", "updated": "2026-05-21T10:27:24+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tioyc7/going_to_hit_7figures_in_revenue_in_ecommerce/on14cvs/", "content": "I’ll buy your course if you have one, I just need to make an extra $5-$10k a month to pay my fucking rent and child support." }, { "id": "t1_on152mq", "author": "/u/maddogyamad", "updated": "2026-05-21T10:32:51+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tioyc7/going_to_hit_7figures_in_revenue_in_ecommerce/on152mq/", "content": "Hey there! I don’t actually have a course and believe that there is a lot of resources out there that you can do it without one. However I believe there is a lot of value In the right course or mentor, you just have to filter between all the shit and the gurus overselling a promise. But I’ll offer you one even better, I’ll help you out for free. Just know that I’m quite a busy person and can’t be there every step of your entrepreneurial journey, but hopefully I can give you a push to get started? Hence this thread haha" }, { "id": "t1_on15pip", "author": "/u/Any-Entertainment934", "updated": "2026-05-21T10:37:36+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tioyc7/going_to_hit_7figures_in_revenue_in_ecommerce/on15pip/", "content": "Understandable and thank you. Don’t need to bother you at all, just need the idea and I’ll do the rest. My only side hustle now is sports cards on eBay which isn’t bad when you have good stock of higher end cards (eg $300-$1500 cards). Doing about $1-$2k/mo before eBay fees and marketing (@25-30%). If I could dm you I’ll explain more." }, { "id": "t1_on16lfe", "author": "/u/maddogyamad", "updated": "2026-05-21T10:44:06+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tioyc7/going_to_hit_7figures_in_revenue_in_ecommerce/on16lfe/", "content": "Nah you’re not bothering me. Looks like you’ve already got skin in the game and that’s more than most. I think if you’ve got a marketable skill (like tech creation, sales, design, finance) you can really double down and start a good side hustle off that. All comes down to what you can offer, where you want to go (whether it be just some passive income or a full time gig). Can DM and I’ll try and map out something for you. Just might be a bit between replies" }, { "id": "t1_on15tfl", "author": "/u/Jami_Martin", "updated": "2026-05-21T10:38:25+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tioyc7/going_to_hit_7figures_in_revenue_in_ecommerce/on15tfl/", "content": "What`s the one thing that made the biggest difference between $100k and $1M revenue - was it the product, the traffic source, or something operational?" }, { "id": "t1_on170l7", "author": "/u/maddogyamad", "updated": "2026-05-21T10:47:10+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tioyc7/going_to_hit_7figures_in_revenue_in_ecommerce/on170l7/", "content": "Honestly, I’d say it was the backend more than anything. Getting to $100k is usually product and hustle. Getting toward $1M is systems. Better retention, stronger email flows, clearer bundles, faster creative testing, cleaner fulfilment, better margins and actually understanding LTV/CAC. Traffic matters, but traffic only scales what already works. The biggest shift was realising growth wasn’t just get more customers,” it was making every customer worth more and building the machine behind the first sale." }, { "id": "t1_on1wl47", "author": "/u/ImmediatePrompt7670", "updated": "2026-05-21T13:19:21+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tioyc7/going_to_hit_7figures_in_revenue_in_ecommerce/on1wl47/", "content": "is your business something you are passionate about?" }, { "id": "t1_on1xnen", "author": "/u/maddogyamad", "updated": "2026-05-21T13:24:43+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tioyc7/going_to_hit_7figures_in_revenue_in_ecommerce/on1xnen/", "content": "Great question. Yeah it is. I think you need to have some level of love and passion for your market. I don’t necessarily mean within the product itself but more so the type of customers you’re dealing with as well. Also need to be relatable in a sense.\n If I’m selling baby clothes and accessories to new born mothers and I’m a 23 year old male with no kids, then I think it would be hard and you wouldn’t really resonate with the crowd and pain points. Not to say it can’t be done.\n But same goes if I’m selling guns and amo to hunters but I’m someone who loves surfing, lives on the beach and isn’t fond of killing animals for sport.\n I think it’s important to have some what of a passion, relatable and purpose (outside of just making money) behind your business. You can obviously do this without but what’s the point? You’ll end up hating your products, your customers, your day to day activities and will feel like working for a boss again." }, { "id": "t1_on1zuu5", "author": "/u/TheSauce775", "updated": "2026-05-21T13:35:46+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tioyc7/going_to_hit_7figures_in_revenue_in_ecommerce/on1zuu5/", "content": "What do you sell, and what gave you the idea/drive to quite the normal job markets, make a product, and start selling it to make a killing in ecommerce? Stuck as a machinist, but have a lot of intellect revolving around finance, business, and crypto, but would love to start to a business and have a product in mind, where would i start? Just start asking investors with a good pitch?" }, { "id": "t1_on21h48", "author": "/u/maddogyamad", "updated": "2026-05-21T13:43:48+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tioyc7/going_to_hit_7figures_in_revenue_in_ecommerce/on21h48/", "content": "I sell health and wellness products. I didn’t quit my job until recently, which even then was only due to another business that generates extra income to ensure I’m not cutting into my margins. Many business owners still work a job even when making upwards of $1m revenue. All depends on the margins and how big they wish to scale. What gave me the idea was my fascination with entrepreneurship. That you reap what you sow. That I’m not donating my time in exchange of money to a company.\n I think you need to engulf yourself into what it takes to be an entrepreneur. The trials and tribulations you will face and what it takes. Revolve your life around it. Reading, listening, observing and overall thinking. Then when you find a market you believe you can tap into, then you have a grown understanding on the steps you need to take to offer products or service within that chosen market. Investors aren’t even an option now or ever an option for some. Unless we are talking about friends and family to invest within your business. Then you will need to have done your research and a great pitch to ensure that they will benefit. They won’t back you unless you have done your homework and give them a level of security in the fact that you have a deep understanding of the market you’re going to sell to and a step by step plan on how it will work." }, { "id": "t1_on23va3", "author": "/u/TheSauce775", "updated": "2026-05-21T13:55:28+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tioyc7/going_to_hit_7figures_in_revenue_in_ecommerce/on23va3/", "content": "well i have a very deep understanding of finances, money, the economy, markets, and macroeconomics in general.. also health, and the product i have in mind solves a problem that i think a lot of americans have, but i just dont know where to start as in where would i begin to make the product? I have a prototype that i use at home on myself 😂 but i think if i had the correct resources, i could easily mass produce this particular item and could sell it to be able to help many people with a health problem. Your right tho about the entrepreneur mindset, but is it really just to do it on my own as far as acquiring a place to make the product, shipping, branding, and eventually rolling out the product? Idk i just figured people always went in with others to start a business or least have a kickstart of some kind, or even shows like shark tank 😂 lol" }, { "id": "t1_on28dnp", "author": "/u/maddogyamad", "updated": "2026-05-21T14:16:50+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tioyc7/going_to_hit_7figures_in_revenue_in_ecommerce/on28dnp/", "content": "You could look at contract manufacturers? Show them your prototype or work with a R&D team to create the product. Obviously you don’t want to go a mass produce a lot. Start out with researching the market, do a business plan with SWOT analysis and a great idea on the financial side of things, tick all the boxes you need, reach out to a contract manufacturer and get an idea on pricing and then raise some capital (save money? Speak to friends and family). Obviously a lot more involved but start with that. Just ensure that there is a market fit for your product and it costs you a lot less to create and then you can verify the price you’ll need to sell it at to generate revenue as well as cover other cost such as marketing" }, { "id": "t1_on2vdu1", "author": "/u/TheSauce775", "updated": "2026-05-21T16:00:29+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tioyc7/going_to_hit_7figures_in_revenue_in_ecommerce/on2vdu1/", "content": "Ya for sure thats a good idea! I should probably start with HOW to manufacture more of the product rather than just my prototype i use for myself lol.. Thanks for responses! 💯" }, { "id": "t1_on2yc3z", "author": "/u/maddogyamad", "updated": "2026-05-21T16:13:52+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tioyc7/going_to_hit_7figures_in_revenue_in_ecommerce/on2yc3z/", "content": "Yeah that’s it. Do some good research into it. I wish you all the best with it! Hope to see your product come to life within the future!" }, { "id": "t1_on349xs", "author": "/u/TheSauce775", "updated": "2026-05-21T16:40:38+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tioyc7/going_to_hit_7figures_in_revenue_in_ecommerce/on349xs/", "content": "Hey thanks, appreciate it!! You will know cus it would be the best, non-invasive device for snoring/sleep apnea 💯💪 lol" }, { "id": "t1_on262g6", "author": "/u/mayangness22", "updated": "2026-05-21T14:05:57+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tioyc7/going_to_hit_7figures_in_revenue_in_ecommerce/on262g6/", "content": "Congrats on the growth Op, that’s impressive. I’m curious about the backend side of scaling though..\n At what point did you stop trying to handle everything yourself and start getting help with ops/admin tasks? For example: product listings, customer support, order tracking, inbox management, supplier follow-ups, content/admin work, or general VA-type support.\n Did hiring backend help actually make a big difference in scaling, or was it more important to automate first and keep the team lean? I’m especially curious because a lot of people talk about product, ads, and revenue, but not enough about the operational support needed once things start working." }, { "id": "t1_on27nw7", "author": "/u/maddogyamad", "updated": "2026-05-21T14:13:29+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tioyc7/going_to_hit_7figures_in_revenue_in_ecommerce/on27nw7/", "content": "Thank you.\n I think when you realise that your time is valuable in other aspects to grow the business. That if you defer that time into something that can be outsourced you can make more money.\n Obviously in the early days money is tight so you take on a lot of these tasks and learn a lot of these skills, but the best founders are the ones who understand to let go of some of these, focus on what’s important and outsource the rest. It will come to a time where you need to trust your gut and take on that level of risk and once you see it pay off, it becomes easier. Can’t take on everything on your own all the time." }, { "id": "t1_on26hk0", "author": "/u/maddogyamad", "updated": "2026-05-21T14:07:56+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tioyc7/going_to_hit_7figures_in_revenue_in_ecommerce/on26hk0/", "content": "Worth mentioning: The difference between myself and you would be more similar in ways than you’d actually think. I’m just a 31 year old dude from Australia. I don’t have a business degree. I don’t come from a lot of money. I haven’t undergone any online business course or mentorship.\n I have a passion for entrepreneurship. Not just in the sense that you can make money, and spend it on materialistic things or use it to support yourself and family, but the passion behind you reap what you sow. You a solving an everyday problem. You get to help customers. You see the results of your hard work and not just donating your time in exchange for money. This is what sparked my passion and off the back of that is where I was able to succeed In some way (which I’ve still got a very long way to go). So I don’t have any magical touch or been gifted In any way. I’ve just got determination and a goal.\n The general consensus from this thread is “where do I start?” “What product do I sell?”. Which I think are good questions but you need to start from the start. You need to understand that to become an entrepreneur you need to learn, act, think and become an entrepreneur. How? Sign up for a course? No. Engulf yourself into learning. Podcasts, books, YouTube, reaching out to others and so forth. There is so much access to free resources. As far as selling products or a service? By this point you’ll have an understanding.\n An analogy I like to use is that if you want to become a body builder you don’t just solely go and lift weights with the hopes of become big and strong to win competitions. You learn about nutrition, sleep, muscle biology, supplements, gyms, which competitions to enter, active clothing and so forth. Same goes with starting a business and your entrepreneurial journey. Things don’t happen overnight and the reason majority end up becoming a fail statistic is thinking this. That not understanding that the going will get tough.\n Obviously there is soooo much more involved but just know that anyone can do this. Don’t try and go from 1 to 100 in a day or expect to get overnight success. It will all play out the way it’s meant to but understand you will grind like you’ve never had before. You will win, lose, cry, laugh and anything else you can think of.\n Here to help how I can!" }, { "id": "t1_on45fpp", "author": "/u/DistinctPaper9161", "updated": "2026-05-21T19:28:59+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tioyc7/going_to_hit_7figures_in_revenue_in_ecommerce/on45fpp/", "content": "this is really helpful, appreciate you taking the time to share your experience. first thing that helped me was getting branded merchandise early (we use RushOrderTees for team shirts), also building email lists from day one was huge and the biggest one was actually talking to customers directly instead of just looking at analytics" }, { "id": "t1_on4sec5", "author": "/u/maddogyamad", "updated": "2026-05-21T21:17:43+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tioyc7/going_to_hit_7figures_in_revenue_in_ecommerce/on4sec5/", "content": "You’re welcome. Yeah I think branded merch, logos and all of those extravagant things aren’t as important as people think. Don’t get me wrong branding is important, but if I had the choice of branded T-shirts, jumpers etc adding up to say $150 or spend that money on a premium converting shopify store, id choose the store. Don’t want to turn into a hype-bro founder early on. But 100% agree with talking to customers directly! Very big cheat code" }, { "id": "t1_on4xr8g", "author": "/u/mviviano", "updated": "2026-05-21T21:45:03+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tioyc7/going_to_hit_7figures_in_revenue_in_ecommerce/on4xr8g/", "content": "I've been a product engineer for 15 years and just started this year designing my own parts. I plan to sell firearms tools and accessories that are made on my CNC machines. What tips do you have for packing and shipping small parts (approx 2 inch in size) and what apps do you use to bring all your orders into one platform? I.e. ebay shopify etc." }, { "id": "t1_on54ne7", "author": "/u/maddogyamad", "updated": "2026-05-21T22:21:52+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tioyc7/going_to_hit_7figures_in_revenue_in_ecommerce/on54ne7/", "content": "For small parts, I’d keep packaging simple and repeatable. standard mailers/boxes, clear SKUs, tracking, and enough protection so parts don’t move around. Once volume picks up, the boring systems matter most. For orders, ShipStation, Shippo, Pirate Ship or Shopify shipping are worth looking at. Haven’t really tried too much of eBay but can give that a go too if others are using that as a selling platform for the same or similar parts? Just make sure each product is compliant with the platform and shipping rules before scaling. Some can be a bit iffy with firearm related equipment." }, { "id": "t1_on625a5", "author": "/u/EastProfessional4100", "updated": "2026-05-22T01:39:10+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tioyc7/going_to_hit_7figures_in_revenue_in_ecommerce/on625a5/", "content": "Congratulations to you. May I ask how do you find your clients." }, { "id": "t1_on6ncau", "author": "/u/maddogyamad", "updated": "2026-05-22T03:57:07+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tioyc7/going_to_hit_7figures_in_revenue_in_ecommerce/on6ncau/", "content": "Mainly through word of mouth, social media and paid ads" }, { "id": "t1_on6jb4g", "author": "/u/magpieoneeye", "updated": "2026-05-22T03:28:30+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tioyc7/going_to_hit_7figures_in_revenue_in_ecommerce/on6jb4g/", "content": "Heya, also an Aussie, fledgling idea. Was your initial launch just one product or a small handful and how many of each SKU did you manufacture?" }, { "id": "t1_on6n92l", "author": "/u/maddogyamad", "updated": "2026-05-22T03:56:27+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tioyc7/going_to_hit_7figures_in_revenue_in_ecommerce/on6n92l/", "content": "Hey there! We launched 5 different products around the same time with an average of 300 units. Varied each SKU but was around that mark." }, { "id": "t1_on6sy68", "author": "/u/magpieoneeye", "updated": "2026-05-22T04:38:31+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tioyc7/going_to_hit_7figures_in_revenue_in_ecommerce/on6sy68/", "content": "Thanks mate, appreciate it!" }, { "id": "t1_ondysyg", "author": "/u/maddogyamad", "updated": "2026-05-23T06:54:57+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tioyc7/going_to_hit_7figures_in_revenue_in_ecommerce/ondysyg/", "content": "More than welcome!" }, { "id": "t1_on7i3vx", "author": "/u/Annual_Lemon6047", "updated": "2026-05-22T08:05:44+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tioyc7/going_to_hit_7figures_in_revenue_in_ecommerce/on7i3vx/", "content": "You think dropshipping is the best start into e-commerce and from there you can build your own brand if you are doing well.\n How would you start today?" }, { "id": "t1_ondz7v6", "author": "/u/maddogyamad", "updated": "2026-05-23T06:58:33+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tioyc7/going_to_hit_7figures_in_revenue_in_ecommerce/ondz7v6/", "content": "I wouldn’t think of dropshipping as the business, I’d think of it as a low-risk testing method in that fact you’re taking out the risk of holding onto a lot of stock. If I was starting today, I’d pick a very specific customer first, find a painful or emotional problem they already spend money on, then test one product with one clear angle before building a big store. Simple landing page, strong offer, 3–5 creatives, small ad budget, and see if the market responds. If it works, then I’d improve shipping, branding, packaging, customer experience and eventually move toward holding stock or creating my own version. Most people fail because they start with “what product can I sell?” instead of “who am I serving and why would they care?” So focus on the customer before the product.\n I’ve really got a love/hate relationship with dropshipping." }, { "id": "t1_on7t6l2", "author": "/u/Kind-Doughnut1648", "updated": "2026-05-22T09:44:07+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tioyc7/going_to_hit_7figures_in_revenue_in_ecommerce/on7t6l2/", "content": "Firstly, massive respect on hitting (or nearing) 7-figures in e-commerce and helping other businesses scale as well. That is a seriously impressive achievement.\n I am in a different space, but I am hoping to get some perspective from someone who has already gone through that scale journey.\n I have been building a tutoring/education side business alongside a full-time corporate job for several years. Over the last 12–18 months, it has consistently out-earned my salary.\n At what point did you personally decide it was the right time to leave employment and go all in on your business?\n I did seriously consider it last year, but I held off. I do not yet own a home, so I have been leaning towards keeping both incomes; one for stability and life security, and the other as the main engine for wealth building and reinvestment.\n That said, I am becoming increasingly disillusioned with corporate life. It feels like energy is going into something that does not compound in the same way, while my own business is clearly where growth and control sit.\n My second question is around scaling:\n How did you move beyond trading time for money once you had already built a structured offer?\n At the moment I have built multiple layers and revenue streams, so it is not purely time-for-money anymore, but it still ultimately relies on my time and availability.\n I would really value your perspective on:\n\n- How you knew the timing was right to leave stability behind\n- And what the real next step looks like when you have already structured the business but still feel partially tied to your time Appreciate you offering to share advice here. Congratulations again on what you have built." }, { "id": "t1_ondypre", "author": "/u/maddogyamad", "updated": "2026-05-23T06:54:12+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tioyc7/going_to_hit_7figures_in_revenue_in_ecommerce/ondypre/", "content": "Thank you very much. Appreciate the kind words.\n I think you’re in a really good position because you already have the hardest part. Proof. If the business has consistently out earned your salary for 12–18 months, that’s not “maybe this could work,” that’s a real business. The bigger question becomes risk tolerance and runway, not validation. Personally, I don’t think there’s some magical moment where it suddenly feels safe to leave. Most people just reach a point where the opportunity cost of staying becomes bigger than the risk of leaving. I know it was for me anyway.\n And on scaling, the next step is usually removing yourself from delivery piece by piece. A lot of people think scaling means more offers, but real scale usually comes from systems, team, leverage and distribution. Documenting processes, hiring slowly around your bottlenecks, creating repeatable onboarding /results, building audience and moving more into assets that compound without your direct time every day. If the business still heavily relies on you, it probably means you’re still the system somewhere in the chain" }, { "id": "t1_on7wve7", "author": "/u/Terry_Ecom", "updated": "2026-05-22T10:13:55+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tioyc7/going_to_hit_7figures_in_revenue_in_ecommerce/on7wve7/", "content": "One thing I’d add from the Google Ads dropshipping/ecom side is that most beginners obsess over “what product should I sell?” when the better question is:\n Can this offer profitably acquire customers?\n A product can look great, but if the margins are thin, the landing page is weak, the Merchant Center setup is messy, or the Google Shopping feed is poor, it becomes almost impossible to scale.\n For me, the big difference is treating ecommerce less like “find a winning product” and more like building a system:\n Product/offer → store trust → clean Google Merchant Center → proper tracking → Shopping/PMax data → optimise based on real numbers.\n Meta is great for creative testing, but Google Ads can be very powerful because you’re often targeting existing demand rather than trying to create demand from scratch.\n Also agree massively on the branding point. Dropshipping gets a bad name because too many people copy/paste products with no real angle. But if you build a proper offer, improve the store, use better suppliers, and make the buying experience feel trustworthy, it becomes a real ecommerce business rather than just “dropshipping.”" }, { "id": "t1_ondy8ra", "author": "/u/maddogyamad", "updated": "2026-05-23T06:50:10+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tioyc7/going_to_hit_7figures_in_revenue_in_ecommerce/ondy8ra/", "content": "Couldn’t agree more." }, { "id": "t1_onadq84", "author": "/u/Zealousideal_Bag_347", "updated": "2026-05-22T17:59:53+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tioyc7/going_to_hit_7figures_in_revenue_in_ecommerce/onadq84/", "content": "Show me" }, { "id": "t1_ondy4tq", "author": "/u/maddogyamad", "updated": "2026-05-23T06:49:14+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tioyc7/going_to_hit_7figures_in_revenue_in_ecommerce/ondy4tq/", "content": "What would you like to see?" }, { "id": "t1_onhu2hk", "author": "/u/Zealousideal_Bag_347", "updated": "2026-05-23T21:11:41+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tioyc7/going_to_hit_7figures_in_revenue_in_ecommerce/onhu2hk/", "content": "Can you help me set up a commerce business where so I source the products to sell ? I am desperate I’m hard working I just need guidance" }, { "id": "t1_onl52ug", "author": "/u/maddogyamad", "updated": "2026-05-24T11:39:07+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tioyc7/going_to_hit_7figures_in_revenue_in_ecommerce/onl52ug/", "content": "I’m going to be brutally honest with you, which in the hopes it helps you and others reading this. I have helped many people within business and have even sought out council myself to others who have succeeded higher than I have.\n I can’t help you set up a business. I can’t tell you what products to sell. I can make you get $10,000 a month or $1,000,000 a year. Why? Because that’s up to you. I can’t give you my winning lottery ticket numbers from what I made my money off because it’s useless to you. What I’m trying to say is that everyone has their own journey, their own skill, their own personality, their own goals, own unique ideas. If you are stuck at the very first point of call, finding a product, then what happens at the next stage? Finding a manufacturer? Finding customers? Solving bottle necks? Balancing the check book? Hiring staff? Running into legal trouble? Selling your company? I understand that you learn all of this as you go along and I did write this thread as people to ask any questions that they may have, but you claim you are hard working but your question to me is can I help you set up a business and give you the products to sell? You really need to come with something like “I’ve been really wanting to get into business for X reason and I’ve been thinking about selling X products to X customers but I’m finding X problem or unsure where to get X manufactured or X comeptitor is doing X. See what I mean? I don’t mean for this to be anyway passive aggressive or steer away from helping you, but majority of people who have DM’ed me ask me the exact same thing. I don’t have this weeks winning lottery numbers, I don’t have a ‘secret’ business idea that will generate 7-figures over night. My advice would be that I’ve reached out to many people within this thread with a bunch of different tactics, answers, insight and so forth. Go read all of that (a lot is about doing market research, problem solving, focusing on customer over products etc) then come back to me. If it’s too much reading and too much effort, then my answer to you on how you’re going to go in business is that you’ll fail. This is a very very very small step. It’s a boring one. Business will get a lot harder than to go through 180 comments. The first thing I can tell you is you need to start adapting to become an entrepreneur and understand that all the successful entrepreneurs are the ones who do their research, work hard and back themselves. I don’t want to give you a blunt answer that says “start dropshipping”. I hope this reply resonates with you well and understand that this is a reply that is intended to change your mindset from a consumer to an entrepreneur." }, { "id": "t1_onavx9s", "author": "/u/matjaaaaa", "updated": "2026-05-22T19:25:27+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tioyc7/going_to_hit_7figures_in_revenue_in_ecommerce/onavx9s/", "content": "Hi, thank you for sharing your knowledge with us. I’ve read all the threads so far, and you mentioned that you started with 20k, which honestly feels like a huge amount to me.\n I’m trying to create some extra income. I have a background in marketing and I’ve worked with paid ads before, so I know how much money you sometimes need to spend on Meta and Google ads before they start converting.\n That’s also what makes me nervous. I’m not comfortable spending a lot of money on traffic ads and just hoping they’ll work.\n How did you deal with spending your own money in the beginning? And roughly how much did you spend before you started seeing results?" }, { "id": "t1_ondxrey", "author": "/u/maddogyamad", "updated": "2026-05-23T06:46:05+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tioyc7/going_to_hit_7figures_in_revenue_in_ecommerce/ondxrey/", "content": "You’re welcome. Yeah 20k does seem like a lot, which relatively is when you start initiating a start up. 20k isn’t the same for every start up but was what I needed to ensure I was able to order 5 different SKUs with approx 300 units, insurances, marketing costs, storage, logistics and so forth. So that won’t be the same for everyone.\n I’m a little confused in the sense that you understand that it takes some initial capital to spend on marketing for it to work but not comfortable to. Having an understanding more than most would give you an advantage to get a good ROAS, would it not?\n I’m assuming your question is relation to spending money on ads. I understand that it takes spending money to make money. As well as it’s essentially a risk. Ads might not convert and fall into a negative ROAS. Which look, did happen early on and even still to this day I have good ads doing 8:1 and other ads that are lucky to do 2:1. But that’s apart of business. I think early on I spent approx $1000 a month when I started to see results. But I think with the introduction of advantage+ meta ads, has never been easier to help you get these ads in front of the right eyes." }, { "id": "t1_onf2tzk", "author": "/u/matjaaaaa", "updated": "2026-05-23T12:30:19+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tioyc7/going_to_hit_7figures_in_revenue_in_ecommerce/onf2tzk/", "content": "I appreciate your reply and I understand you’re a little confused. I think I’m less confident when it’s my own money vs someone else’s. I’m afraid I’ll doubt myself and end up wasting my money.\n When I help other companies most of them are already further along in the process. People are already familiar with the brand or they’ve built credibility over time.\n Did you start the company on your own? Did you ever doubt yourself in the beginning? And how did you become comfortable spending your own money on it?" }, { "id": "t1_onlbl6k", "author": "/u/maddogyamad", "updated": "2026-05-24T12:23:41+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tioyc7/going_to_hit_7figures_in_revenue_in_ecommerce/onlbl6k/", "content": "Yeah I totally get that. With someone else’s money it’s just numbers on a screen. With yours, it’s a risk. Maybe that’s the key problem you’re facing and something you need to come to terms with? You know what you’re capable of and have succession behind your skills. I get going into a business with a warm audience is a great advantage, but also going into a new startup with knowledge and skills of digital marketing is too. Your budget doesn’t have to be $200,000 a month in ad spend. You know how to get a positive ROAS. So start with $1000 a month?\n This company, yep. Previous companies I’ve had co-founders. Mate I doubt myself every fucking day haha. Especially at the start. But I also back myself every day. Why? Because of these words right here: “if not me, then who?” I don’t think anyone gets comfortable spending their own money on stuff. Especially when it’s not guaranteed it’s going to come back to you. Or is going to take your money constantly and with the promise “well if you work hard and hard, maybe in a few years you’ll get this back and more. But between now and then, you ain’t gonna see shit unless you work hard”. Because that’s business baby! Haha. The second you realise that, it gets easier." }, { "id": "t1_oncc8nd", "author": "/u/Fun_Community9825", "updated": "2026-05-23T00:05:09+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tioyc7/going_to_hit_7figures_in_revenue_in_ecommerce/oncc8nd/", "content": "Cómo hiciste para escalar tu primer producto desde cero" }, { "id": "t1_ondzbwo", "author": "/u/maddogyamad", "updated": "2026-05-23T06:59:29+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tioyc7/going_to_hit_7figures_in_revenue_in_ecommerce/ondzbwo/", "content": "With a lot of research, planning, risk and a touch of luck!" }, { "id": "t1_onhty4n", "author": "/u/Zealousideal_Bag_347", "updated": "2026-05-23T21:11:02+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tioyc7/going_to_hit_7figures_in_revenue_in_ecommerce/onhty4n/", "content": "Can you help me ?" }, { "id": "t1_onlaqbv", "author": "/u/maddogyamad", "updated": "2026-05-24T12:18:04+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tioyc7/going_to_hit_7figures_in_revenue_in_ecommerce/onlaqbv/", "content": "Sure, what can I help you with?" }, { "id": "t1_onkslm9", "author": "/u/Sea_Shine1127", "updated": "2026-05-24T09:57:56+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tioyc7/going_to_hit_7figures_in_revenue_in_ecommerce/onkslm9/", "content": "Écouter le client ok mais concrètement comment tu fais quand t'as 500+ commandes par mois ? Les forums c'est bien pour le début mais ça scale pas.\n Ce qui marche vraiment c'est d'avoir un CRM qui se remplit tout seul à chaque achat. Genre le mec commande, il reçoit sa carte de fidélité automatiquement, et toi t'as son historique, sa fréquence d'achat, son panier moyen. Là tu peux vraiment "l'écouter" avec de la data.\n Bravo pour les 7 chiffres en tout cas, c'est costaud." }, { "id": "t1_onl35g1", "author": "/u/maddogyamad", "updated": "2026-05-24T11:24:47+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tioyc7/going_to_hit_7figures_in_revenue_in_ecommerce/onl35g1/", "content": "Thank you very much.\n I think you’re right. At a certain point “listening to the customer” stops being reading comments manually and starts becoming systems and data. Once volume increases, things like CRM, email segmentation, repeat purchase rate, LTV, purchase frequency and retention flows become way more valuable because you start seeing patterns instead of isolated opinions. The businesses that scale well usually get really good at turning customer behaviour into feedback loops automatically rather than trying to personally keep up with every conversation.\n However most people within this thread don’t have 5 orders a month, let alone 500. So while they have the opportunity being a young company, I think it’s very important for them to listen to their customers needs." }, { "id": "t1_onkxsqf", "author": "/u/CountQuackula69", "updated": "2026-05-24T10:42:55+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tioyc7/going_to_hit_7figures_in_revenue_in_ecommerce/onkxsqf/", "content": "I am in the process of starting up my own clothing brand, it's crazy how initially I thought "Oh wow the markup is crazy!" and then I got into the real financial figures and realised I'm going to have to bump the prices up just to be able to actually reorder stock. Been looking into side incomes for a long time now being in a dead end job but building my own brand is genuinely a fun experience so far and truly eye opening!\n Appreciate any tips along the way 😃" }, { "id": "t1_onl2sn0", "author": "/u/maddogyamad", "updated": "2026-05-24T11:22:03+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tioyc7/going_to_hit_7figures_in_revenue_in_ecommerce/onl2sn0/", "content": "Yeah that realisation hits pretty quickly. Revenue is not profit, and markup disappears fast once you factor in stock, shipping, returns, ads, packaging, fees and reorder cash. Biggest tip would be to know your numbers before you scale. Don’t price based on what feels fair, price based on what lets the business survive. Also, with clothing, the brand matters as much as the product. People need to feel like they’re buying into an identity, not just another shirt or hoodie. It’s a very tough one with the clothing market. I’ve advised a few people who are already within the industry but for first starters I’d recommend staying clear unless you’ve already got some sort of personal brand/following, financial backing, USP or USP within a niche market (as a top-of- the-dome example; comfortable elastic pants for railroad workers or something. And you being a railroad worker for the last 10 years and have a story behind the creation and knowing many people around you with the same issue)." }, { "id": "t1_onl7uur", "author": "/u/CountQuackula69", "updated": "2026-05-24T11:58:50+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tioyc7/going_to_hit_7figures_in_revenue_in_ecommerce/onl7uur/", "content": "I think it's definitely going to be an uphill battle that's for sure. Clothing is already saturate and we're going for fleeces marketed at dog lovers and hikers which has direct competition with brands like Passenger etc. I hope it works out but if it doesn't, at least I will have learnt plenty along the way and can maybe focus on something with a higher success rate in the future!" }, { "id": "t1_onl9gmf", "author": "/u/maddogyamad", "updated": "2026-05-24T12:09:39+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tioyc7/going_to_hit_7figures_in_revenue_in_ecommerce/onl9gmf/", "content": "Honestly, if it doesn’t work out (don’t quote me on this and it’s different for everyone), most successful people’s first startup isn’t the thing that gets them big money exits or makes them successful or wealthy. But they’re are much needed to learn, understand and most importantly, fail. Failure is so important. The resilient ones, the ones who keep coming back are the ones who have failed multiple times and then succeed. Because statistically, there is only so many times you can fail until you succeed. Now this isn’t to say you will fail, of course that isn’t my intent at all but merely to hone in on your last comment. If things don’t work out the way you intended, just know you’re already miles ahead of someone just starting out. You’ve learnt so much and you can apply it to your next venture. You can look at it that you’ve lost money and failed, or you’ve spent money to learn skills and resilience, and onto your next step!" }, { "id": "t1_onkxyfx", "author": "/u/DemonParadise", "updated": "2026-05-24T10:44:13+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tioyc7/going_to_hit_7figures_in_revenue_in_ecommerce/onkxyfx/", "content": "Hey, appreciate you doing this.\n I’m a UX/UI designer and art director, 8 years in e-commerce. That’s my strength. I can build a brand, design a converting site, create packaging that stops the scroll. I know Shopify inside out.\n I’ve been working on a premium Japanese seasoning brand (furikake). Strong visual identity, fox mascot, clean positioning. The creative side is solid.\n The problem is the economics. €8 ticket, logistics eat the margin, and I can’t be CAC-positive on first purchase. The whole model depends on subscription conversion and keeping CAC under €20, which feels optimistic for a cold audience with no brand awareness.\n I looked at competitors. The ones that survive all do retail alongside DTC. But honestly I’m not a sales guy. Walking into stores, pitching buyers that’s not me. I don’t see myself doing that.\n So I’m stuck. Good skills, real concept, broken unit economics, and the one fix (retail) doesn’t match my profile.\n Should I kill this and find something with better margins from the start? Or is there a way to make DTC-only work for a low-ticket food product with a limited budget 7k" }, { "id": "t1_onl28ms", "author": "/u/maddogyamad", "updated": "2026-05-24T11:17:47+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tioyc7/going_to_hit_7figures_in_revenue_in_ecommerce/onl28ms/", "content": "Hmmm looking at it from what you’ve described, your read is probably right. The brand and creative might be strong, but if the unit economics are broken, good design won’t save it. Low ticket food DTC is brutal because shipping, CAC and repeat purchase timing can eat you alive. I wouldn’t necessarily kill it yet, but I’d stop thinking of it as a single €8 product. You probably need bundles, multi-packs, gift sets, subscriptions, recipe content, and maybe a higher AOV starter kit to make the numbers work. If you can’t get the first order value high enough or create reliable repeat purchase, then yes, I’d seriously consider moving your skills into a product with better margins from day one. The product doesn’t just need to look good, the maths has to work." }, { "id": "t1_ons706m", "author": "/u/DemonParadise", "updated": "2026-05-25T13:24:39+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tioyc7/going_to_hit_7figures_in_revenue_in_ecommerce/ons706m/", "content": "Hey, really appreciate the honest take. Your point about AOV and repeat purchase is spot on, that’s exactly where the model breaks. Given my profile (UX/UI, branding, ecommerce execution) but no appetite for retail, what product categories would you focus on instead?" }, { "id": "t1_oocpzbw", "author": "/u/maddogyamad", "updated": "2026-05-28T11:35:52+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tioyc7/going_to_hit_7figures_in_revenue_in_ecommerce/oocpzbw/", "content": "Good question. I guess that comes down to you! You’ve already got a great understanding of CAC, shopify website builds, retention etc. So you’re already miles ahead of someone else who would be just starting out. I wouldn’t look at reinventing the wheel but find something that can done a lot better and with good margins. Find a USP and just double down on that. I’d love to be able to say “hey maybe trying sell ‘X’” or “X would be the perfect product” but unfortunately there isn’t a golden ticket with this sort of stuff. But I believe you’ve got your head wrapped around ecom enough to do quite well and it takes time. Also big kudos to you for discovering the issue and having the humility and understanding if it’s worth binning or not. A lot of people flog a dead horse with or without knowing it’s dead" }, { "id": "t1_ooeqnwy", "author": "/u/DemonParadise", "updated": "2026-05-28T17:19:20+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tioyc7/going_to_hit_7figures_in_revenue_in_ecommerce/ooeqnwy/", "content": "This honestly hit home. That last line about people beating a dead horse without knowing it’s dead is exactly the trap I was scared of falling into. You’re right that there’s no magic product, it’s on me to find my own angle from what I actually know. Thanks for taking the time, this gave me real clarity." }, { "id": "t1_onoqr31", "author": "/u/BellyStormus", "updated": "2026-05-24T22:50:33+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tioyc7/going_to_hit_7figures_in_revenue_in_ecommerce/onoqr31/", "content": "Genuinely interested in learning how you deal with product regulatory compliance across so many SKUs/regions? Let the factory handle it or?" }, { "id": "t1_oocozd8", "author": "/u/maddogyamad", "updated": "2026-05-28T11:29:35+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tioyc7/going_to_hit_7figures_in_revenue_in_ecommerce/oocozd8/", "content": "Hey! Yeah it can be a tricky one. Especially shipping overseas (customs usually bites ya in the backside). Our manufacturer/s are really up to standard with the regulatory compliance across the regions we ship to and our shipping department usually cross checks if things are any different. However since we mainly sell within the Australian market, you’ll find majority of the states within Australia follow the same compliance regulations. Since our product is also produced, packaged and shipped within the same country, isn’t a major issue. Just went we ship overseas." }, { "id": "t1_onql96k", "author": "/u/Frequent-Film1565", "updated": "2026-05-25T06:03:49+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tioyc7/going_to_hit_7figures_in_revenue_in_ecommerce/onql96k/", "content": "Yes I want to get started in e-commerce but don’t know how or where to even begin????" }, { "id": "t1_oocojaq", "author": "/u/maddogyamad", "updated": "2026-05-28T11:26:43+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tioyc7/going_to_hit_7figures_in_revenue_in_ecommerce/oocojaq/", "content": "Start from the very start. Why do you want to get into e-commerce?" }, { "id": "t1_oofsrlz", "author": "/u/Frequent-Film1565", "updated": "2026-05-28T20:07:42+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tioyc7/going_to_hit_7figures_in_revenue_in_ecommerce/oofsrlz/", "content": "To make money from the comfort of home without having to go punch in on a time clock…" }, { "id": "t1_ooh5g6w", "author": "/u/maddogyamad", "updated": "2026-05-29T00:14:04+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tioyc7/going_to_hit_7figures_in_revenue_in_ecommerce/ooh5g6w/", "content": "When you put it like that, sounds like a dream job. No alarm. Still in pyjamas. Making money from my couch. No boss to answer to.\n I’m going to be real. It’s hard. It’s stressful. You’re still going to have to work your normal job, but instead you’re going to now have to manage 2 jobs. If you leave your normal 9 - 5 job, then you’re going to have financial stress.\n I’m not scaring you away from e-commerce. But people think that it’s an escape but in the harsh reality, it’s bringing on more pressure. If you understand this and have ways to manage this, then e-commerce can give you what you want." }, { "id": "t1_oomj4pc", "author": "/u/Frequent-Film1565", "updated": "2026-05-29T19:03:27+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tioyc7/going_to_hit_7figures_in_revenue_in_ecommerce/oomj4pc/", "content": "Oh yeah don’t even plan on quitting my current job until my e-commerce income surpasses my job income.." }, { "id": "t1_ooq5m5n", "author": "/u/maddogyamad", "updated": "2026-05-30T08:18:01+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tioyc7/going_to_hit_7figures_in_revenue_in_ecommerce/ooq5m5n/", "content": "Yeah that’s it. Just takes time man. A lot of people don’t understand that. My company did an $84,000 month and i was still working a full time job. Go figure hahaha" }, { "id": "t1_onrkmov", "author": "", "updated": "2026-05-25T11:04:15+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tioyc7/going_to_hit_7figures_in_revenue_in_ecommerce/onrkmov/", "content": "[deleted]" }, { "id": "t1_ons04ds", "author": "/u/maddogyamad", "updated": "2026-05-25T12:46:19+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tioyc7/going_to_hit_7figures_in_revenue_in_ecommerce/ons04ds/", "content": "Thank you. Appreciate the kind words. I think going from just selling stuff to building systems in order to take it to the next level. Looking more into cash flow, retention, customer acquisition cost, fulfilment, margins, consistency, systems, and time. Once you start really building a system within these and turning your focus from just selling stuff to looking more into things like LTV, that’s where you go from making a few bucks to the big bucks" }, { "id": "t1_onuvui0", "author": "/u/xotwoduiux", "updated": "2026-05-25T21:15:28+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tioyc7/going_to_hit_7figures_in_revenue_in_ecommerce/onuvui0/", "content": "What's your average order value? What product is it? And where is your major consumer group based out of (geography)?\n What would you categorise your product as - Daily Needs, Daily Wants, Occasionnal Needs or Occasionnal Wants?" }, { "id": "t1_onvgt82", "author": "/u/maddogyamad", "updated": "2026-05-25T23:10:32+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tioyc7/going_to_hit_7figures_in_revenue_in_ecommerce/onvgt82/", "content": "AOV is currently around $120. Which is mainly thanks to bundled offers. It’s a health and wellness product and mainly consumer group is within Australia and New Zealand. Hmm probably daily wants." }, { "id": "t1_onvlpf6", "author": "/u/Zealousideal_Bag_347", "updated": "2026-05-25T23:38:55+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tioyc7/going_to_hit_7figures_in_revenue_in_ecommerce/onvlpf6/", "content": "Can you help me ? I am just in the beginning steps of starting my online store front" }, { "id": "t1_onw4gou", "author": "/u/wahidHsony", "updated": "2026-05-26T01:27:59+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tioyc7/going_to_hit_7figures_in_revenue_in_ecommerce/onw4gou/", "content": "Can I get mentored by you?\n I have started just 5 months ago.\n Ordering my 1st container of products soon.\n Envisioning to build a house of brands." }, { "id": "t1_onwniyh", "author": "/u/maddogyamad", "updated": "2026-05-26T03:22:45+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tioyc7/going_to_hit_7figures_in_revenue_in_ecommerce/onwniyh/", "content": "I’d love to offer a mentorship but I’m just so busy I’m afraid. Keen to hear more about what youre selling and who you are selling to! Might be able to offer some advice?" }, { "id": "t1_onw5wpc", "author": "/u/CheesyPineConeFog", "updated": "2026-05-26T01:36:37+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tioyc7/going_to_hit_7figures_in_revenue_in_ecommerce/onw5wpc/", "content": "What's the best way to get noticed? My shop seems to have no traffic, but I feel I offer a valuable good at a severely underpriced priced compared to others." }, { "id": "t1_onwneyw", "author": "/u/maddogyamad", "updated": "2026-05-26T03:22:02+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tioyc7/going_to_hit_7figures_in_revenue_in_ecommerce/onwneyw/", "content": "Are you running paid ads?" }, { "id": "t1_onx4jag", "author": "/u/CheesyPineConeFog", "updated": "2026-05-26T05:24:46+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tioyc7/going_to_hit_7figures_in_revenue_in_ecommerce/onx4jag/", "content": "No. Not really sure where to start on that front. Google? Meta? Pay an influencer?" }, { "id": "t1_onx4tio", "author": "/u/maddogyamad", "updated": "2026-05-26T05:27:00+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tioyc7/going_to_hit_7figures_in_revenue_in_ecommerce/onx4tio/", "content": "Yeah your shop won’t get any hits unless someone miraculously stumbles across it or someone organically tells another to visit it. Thats your problem. You might have the best product in the world but no one knows about it. Mainly depends on what you’re selling really. But I’d try meta ads with some good creatives. But also make sure you store is easy enough to navigate, isn’t slow, includes upsell offers (pre and post purchase) and includes any credibility (reviews, testimonials, founder story etc) to go along with it." }, { "id": "t1_onwjf44", "author": "/u/ForTheLoveOfSnail", "updated": "2026-05-26T02:56:09+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tioyc7/going_to_hit_7figures_in_revenue_in_ecommerce/onwjf44/", "content": "I’m at the very beginning of my journey. I’m looking to start maybe an affiliate marketing blog, which I drove traffic to from Pinterest. I have a background in marketing and comms and am good with AI. Any tips for starting out?" }, { "id": "t1_onwndx1", "author": "/u/maddogyamad", "updated": "2026-05-26T03:21:51+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tioyc7/going_to_hit_7figures_in_revenue_in_ecommerce/onwndx1/", "content": "Yeah I think it can have legs depending whether you have enough credibility behind it and following. It all comes down to what you’re offering and what crowd you are aiming to sell to. Im assuming you’re going to affiliate market through your blog or is the blog about affiliate marketing?" }, { "id": "t1_onxto68", "author": "/u/ForTheLoveOfSnail", "updated": "2026-05-26T09:01:33+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tioyc7/going_to_hit_7figures_in_revenue_in_ecommerce/onxto68/", "content": "Affiliate marketing through my blog, not about affiliate marketing. I would compile lists of products I find helpful — for example, I recently went on a teeth journey and have a lot of products I now use." }, { "id": "t1_onxv2cc", "author": "/u/maddogyamad", "updated": "2026-05-26T09:14:01+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tioyc7/going_to_hit_7figures_in_revenue_in_ecommerce/onxv2cc/", "content": "I think that’s good and all, but you need a following. And for people to follow you, you need credibility and offer them something. Anyone can start a blog. But to start a blog and have hundreds people follow you is another thing. Not only that, to top it off, you need those people to trust you enough to recommend a product to buy. See what I mean? This takes a very long time. Even years. People don’t necessarily like being sold to as well. So if it comes across too salesy, it’ll just feel like one big giant advertisement" }, { "id": "t1_omwhyuq", "author": "/u/ReggieHammond48hrs", "updated": "2026-05-20T17:29:11+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tioyc7/going_to_hit_7figures_in_revenue_in_ecommerce/omwhyuq/", "content": "Wow congrats here is a cookie 🍪" }, { "id": "t1_omwi4sd", "author": "/u/maddogyamad", "updated": "2026-05-20T17:29:55+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tioyc7/going_to_hit_7figures_in_revenue_in_ecommerce/omwi4sd/", "content": "Woo! A cookie! Thank you!" }, { "id": "t1_omzbyib", "author": "/u/ODMcGee", "updated": "2026-05-21T02:15:44+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tioyc7/going_to_hit_7figures_in_revenue_in_ecommerce/omzbyib/", "content": "you are 100% bragging, even if you don't think you are. You must be looking for validation for some reason, but hey good for you." }, { "id": "t1_omzdsg5", "author": "/u/ThatsPrettyTightMan", "updated": "2026-05-21T02:25:50+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tioyc7/going_to_hit_7figures_in_revenue_in_ecommerce/omzdsg5/", "content": "You sound very bitter. Why even be a part of this subreddit if you can't handle a success story?" }, { "id": "t1_on01l0j", "author": "/u/maddogyamad", "updated": "2026-05-21T04:59:20+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tioyc7/going_to_hit_7figures_in_revenue_in_ecommerce/on01l0j/", "content": "It’s mainly giving credibility, but hey whatever. There is always one isn’t there? I’m just here giving FREE advice for people who just need a little extra help." } ] }, { "source": "r/passive_income top month", "id": "t3_1tnh3w8", "title": "$14,382 across 30 users this week with a free bot I built. Closer to passive than most things in this sub, here's the honest breakdown.", "author": "/u/HappyAshi", "updated": "2026-05-25T18:11:28+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tnh3w8/14382_across_30_users_this_week_with_a_free_bot_i/", "content": "Going to address the "is this actually passive" thing right up front because that's the whole vibe of this sub.\n This isn't 100% passive. You still message sellers, buy, ship, list, sell. What the bot does is collapse the active part that actually sucks, which is staring at marketplace listings refreshing all day waiting for a deal. Instead you get a Discord ping when a listing hits your filter and you act on it. So it's "passive discovery, active execution." More passive than dropshipping, less passive than dividends. Calling it like it is.\n The week's numbers:\n - $14,382 in confirmed flips across about 30 casual users in my Discord\n - Only confirmed wins, plenty of people in the Discord don't post their deals so real number is higher\n - One guy who only flips couches did $2,300 by himself this week\n - I personally flipped 2 hours total (was coding) and made $374\n My 2 hours:\n - Apple Watch Series 7, Wallapop to eBay\n - iPhone 16 Pro, Vinted to eBay\n - 6 PS5 controllers, Wallapop to eBay\n - $374 in profit, all shipped to me with buyer protection, zero driving\n Quick context: I'm a 20yo CS student. Built a free open-source bot that watches Facebook Marketplace, Wallapop, Vinted, and Mercari and pings your Discord when a listing matches your filter.\n **Why this is the closest to passive I've found in flipping:**\n\n- The bot does the searching. That's the part that eats hours.\n\n- Vinted and Wallapop sellers ship the item to you, so no driving, no meetups, no "is it still available" runaround.\n\n- eBay is the resale side, listings stay live until they sell, you check the app once a day.\n\n- Setup is now 5 minutes thanks to the update this week, used to be an hour. Onboarding is fully guided with video tutorials.\n\n- Just expanded the notification system to work way better with clothing items too (you can see the new clothing notification format in the screenshot). Vinted is clothes-first, so this opens up a whole second category that runs the same way as electronics.\n The filter setup that's working:\n Model name + max price at 60-70% of eBay sold comps + require "unlocked" + exclude "icloud / locked / cracked / parts." Message sellers fast with "Hi, still available, I can pay today." Speed is the whole edge.\n Free and open source: https://github.com/ethanashi/fbm-sniper-community\n AMA in the comments.\n submitted by /u/HappyAshi\n [link] [comments]", "contentHtml": "
\"$14,382

Going to address the "is this actually passive" thing right up front because that's the whole vibe of this sub.

This isn't 100% passive. You still message sellers, buy, ship, list, sell. What the bot does is collapse the active part that actually sucks, which is staring at marketplace listings refreshing all day waiting for a deal. Instead you get a Discord ping when a listing hits your filter and you act on it. So it's "passive discovery, active execution." More passive than dropshipping, less passive than dividends. Calling it like it is.

The week's numbers:

- $14,382 in confirmed flips across about 30 casual users in my Discord

- Only confirmed wins, plenty of people in the Discord don't post their deals so real number is higher

- One guy who only flips couches did $2,300 by himself this week

- I personally flipped 2 hours total (was coding) and made $374

My 2 hours:

- Apple Watch Series 7, Wallapop to eBay

- iPhone 16 Pro, Vinted to eBay

- 6 PS5 controllers, Wallapop to eBay

- $374 in profit, all shipped to me with buyer protection, zero driving

Quick context: I'm a 20yo CS student. Built a free open-source bot that watches Facebook Marketplace, Wallapop, Vinted, and Mercari and pings your Discord when a listing matches your filter.

**Why this is the closest to passive I've found in flipping:**

  1. The bot does the searching. That's the part that eats hours.

  2. Vinted and Wallapop sellers ship the item to you, so no driving, no meetups, no "is it still available" runaround.

  3. eBay is the resale side, listings stay live until they sell, you check the app once a day.

  4. Setup is now 5 minutes thanks to the update this week, used to be an hour. Onboarding is fully guided with video tutorials.

  5. Just expanded the notification system to work way better with clothing items too (you can see the new clothing notification format in the screenshot). Vinted is clothes-first, so this opens up a whole second category that runs the same way as electronics.

The filter setup that's working:

Model name + max price at 60-70% of eBay sold comps + require "unlocked" + exclude "icloud / locked / cracked / parts." Message sellers fast with "Hi, still available, I can pay today." Speed is the whole edge.

Free and open source: https://github.com/ethanashi/fbm-sniper-community

AMA in the comments.

submitted by /u/HappyAshi
[link] [comments]
", "comments": [ { "id": "t1_ontui3v", "author": "/u/AutoModerator", "updated": "2026-05-25T18:11:30+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tnh3w8/14382_across_30_users_this_week_with_a_free_bot_i/ontui3v/", "content": "Check out the Community Highlights for current and future Mod Vetted opportunities and Newsletter Episodes.\n Please do due diligence on any crypto opportunity. A simple google search could save you a fortune.\n I am a bot, and this action was performed automatically. Please contact the moderators of this subreddit if you have any questions or concerns." }, { "id": "t1_onv1deg", "author": "/u/Aguerismo", "updated": "2026-05-25T21:44:11+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tnh3w8/14382_across_30_users_this_week_with_a_free_bot_i/onv1deg/", "content": "That sounds brilliant. On Vinted/Wallapop, do you buy directly, or do they suggest which product to buy? And most importantly: do you choose which product to look for?" }, { "id": "t1_onz1iot", "author": "/u/HappyAshi", "updated": "2026-05-26T13:51:10+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tnh3w8/14382_across_30_users_this_week_with_a_free_bot_i/onz1iot/", "content": "Yeah, you choose. You set up "targets" in the bot, basically what you want to hunt for (e.g. "iPhone 15 Pro under €600, unlocked") and the bot pings you when something matches. You buy directly from the seller on Wallapop or Vinted through their checkout, with buyer protection. The bot doesn't auto-buy, you decide on each deal.\n So the workflow is: set your filters once, get pings, tap through to listings you like, buy the ones that pencil out after eBay fees and shipping." }, { "id": "t1_onyvlyk", "author": "/u/Barney_Arrowsmith", "updated": "2026-05-26T13:21:09+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tnh3w8/14382_across_30_users_this_week_with_a_free_bot_i/onyvlyk/", "content": "What's the catch? Why would anyone share this for free?" }, { "id": "t1_onz1aiv", "author": "/u/HappyAshi", "updated": "2026-05-26T13:50:04+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tnh3w8/14382_across_30_users_this_week_with_a_free_bot_i/onz1aiv/", "content": "No catch. The free version is genuinely free and open source. I built it as an OSS project first and that's still the main thing.\n The way I'd frame it: free makes monitoring products way easier, Pro basically automates the entire sourcing process. Much better for people who are serious about flipping.\n Pro adds:\n - Gemini AI scoring: each listing gets an A to D grade with a reason ("spread €240, seller 23 ratings, clean photos") so your phone isn't buzzing on junk\n - 7 marketplaces instead of 4, adds Leboncoin, Kleinanzeigen, Gumtree\n - No scan-rate throttle. Pro has backend anti-detection so you can scan as fast as you want without burning your account\n - Triple-channel Discord routing: Buy Now / Maybe / All split into separate channels so the noise stays out of your main alerts\n - Wider currency support (30+) and per-target AI prompts\n 7-day free trial if you want to test it: https://whop.com/checkout/plan_2PgG7jFgnK9F8\n But for real, the free version is the same scraping core. If you just want the FB/Wallapop/Vinted/Mercari ping, it's all there. Don't pay for Pro until you've actually made money with the free one." }, { "id": "t1_onujnf9", "author": "/u/MisterBatchelor", "updated": "2026-05-25T20:14:39+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tnh3w8/14382_across_30_users_this_week_with_a_free_bot_i/onujnf9/", "content": "First off this is incredible, thank you for sharing!\n Are you receiving and shipping the inventory you buy from the source sites, or are you able to ship directly from the source site to the eBay customer?" }, { "id": "t1_onz1cw2", "author": "/u/HappyAshi", "updated": "2026-05-26T13:50:23+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tnh3w8/14382_across_30_users_this_week_with_a_free_bot_i/onz1cw2/", "content": "Appreciate it. I receive everything first, then relist. Two reasons:\n\n- Quality check: you need to verify the item matches the listing before it's on your eBay reputation. Wallapop/Vinted descriptions are often optimistic.\n\n- Photos: your own photos convert way better than recycled seller pics, and eBay's algorithm rewards original media.\n Drop-shipping straight from source to eBay buyer is technically possible but it's how people end up with returns and feedback hits. The extra 2-day detour through your place is worth it." }, { "id": "t1_onz3adt", "author": "/u/MisterBatchelor", "updated": "2026-05-26T13:59:54+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tnh3w8/14382_across_30_users_this_week_with_a_free_bot_i/onz3adt/", "content": "That’s good insight, appreciate it! How does your friend who flips couches handle that aspect? Smaller items I could pretty easily manage, but larger items feel intimidating if I need to recruit help and have storage space to recurve/hold inventory" }, { "id": "t1_onxb3hx", "author": "/u/littlegoodwolf123", "updated": "2026-05-26T06:18:25+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tnh3w8/14382_across_30_users_this_week_with_a_free_bot_i/onxb3hx/", "content": "Brilliant" }, { "id": "t1_oo1ktcx", "author": "/u/HappyAshi", "updated": "2026-05-26T20:42:02+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tnh3w8/14382_across_30_users_this_week_with_a_free_bot_i/oo1ktcx/", "content": "Thank you so much! Took so much time to figure out haha" }, { "id": "t1_onxibgr", "author": "/u/git_commit_gud", "updated": "2026-05-26T07:20:07+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tnh3w8/14382_across_30_users_this_week_with_a_free_bot_i/onxibgr/", "content": "Can we join your discord as well? Cheers" }, { "id": "t1_onyvlxm", "author": "/u/Infamous-Crew1710", "updated": "2026-05-26T13:21:09+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tnh3w8/14382_across_30_users_this_week_with_a_free_bot_i/onyvlxm/", "content": "Nice" }, { "id": "t1_oo1kur1", "author": "/u/HappyAshi", "updated": "2026-05-26T20:42:13+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tnh3w8/14382_across_30_users_this_week_with_a_free_bot_i/oo1kur1/", "content": "Thanks so much!" }, { "id": "t1_onzbb1n", "author": "/u/HauntingScientist947", "updated": "2026-05-26T14:37:53+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tnh3w8/14382_across_30_users_this_week_with_a_free_bot_i/onzbb1n/", "content": "❤️" }, { "id": "t1_oo1ku58", "author": "/u/HappyAshi", "updated": "2026-05-26T20:42:08+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tnh3w8/14382_across_30_users_this_week_with_a_free_bot_i/oo1ku58/", "content": "Thank you!" }, { "id": "t1_onzuvga", "author": "/u/notyskynet", "updated": "2026-05-26T16:05:56+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tnh3w8/14382_across_30_users_this_week_with_a_free_bot_i/onzuvga/", "content": "Will vome back to this next week when im done with assignments and have ti focus on other things." }, { "id": "t1_onzvlum", "author": "/u/HappyAshi", "updated": "2026-05-26T16:09:14+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tnh3w8/14382_across_30_users_this_week_with_a_free_bot_i/onzvlum/", "content": "No problem, good luck with your finals!\n We’ll be here still🙏🏽" }, { "id": "t1_oo0uflj", "author": "/u/Parking-Solid-3105", "updated": "2026-05-26T18:42:43+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tnh3w8/14382_across_30_users_this_week_with_a_free_bot_i/oo0uflj/", "content": "Nice" }, { "id": "t1_oo1krg6", "author": "/u/HappyAshi", "updated": "2026-05-26T20:41:48+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tnh3w8/14382_across_30_users_this_week_with_a_free_bot_i/oo1krg6/", "content": "Thanks!" }, { "id": "t1_oo1mve3", "author": "/u/alemorg", "updated": "2026-05-26T20:51:21+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tnh3w8/14382_across_30_users_this_week_with_a_free_bot_i/oo1mve3/", "content": "I did the same thing for Legos lol" }, { "id": "t1_oo2aphy", "author": "/u/HappyAshi", "updated": "2026-05-26T22:49:27+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tnh3w8/14382_across_30_users_this_week_with_a_free_bot_i/oo2aphy/", "content": "It works so well😭" }, { "id": "t1_oo7is9d", "author": "/u/alemorg", "updated": "2026-05-27T17:14:06+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tnh3w8/14382_across_30_users_this_week_with_a_free_bot_i/oo7is9d/", "content": "Bro personally I wouldn’t release this. Reason being if Everyone starts scalping then you can’t beat them anymore. Theres already crazy amounts of Lego scalpers and shoe scalpers etc. I would take this down tbh" }, { "id": "t1_ookjzdb", "author": "/u/Djerrick", "updated": "2026-05-29T13:49:05+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tnh3w8/14382_across_30_users_this_week_with_a_free_bot_i/ookjzdb/", "content": "lol dude who cares" }, { "id": "t1_ookk2d0", "author": "/u/alemorg", "updated": "2026-05-29T13:49:29+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tnh3w8/14382_across_30_users_this_week_with_a_free_bot_i/ookk2d0/", "content": "Everyone cares about the Lego scalpers" }, { "id": "t1_oo1zc56", "author": "/u/sgtblast", "updated": "2026-05-26T21:50:11+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tnh3w8/14382_across_30_users_this_week_with_a_free_bot_i/oo1zc56/", "content": "Thanks man!" }, { "id": "t1_oo2asmw", "author": "/u/HappyAshi", "updated": "2026-05-26T22:49:55+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tnh3w8/14382_across_30_users_this_week_with_a_free_bot_i/oo2asmw/", "content": "No problem, make sure to join the discord!" }, { "id": "t1_ood3lfs", "author": "/u/Simple_Panda6063", "updated": "2026-05-28T12:53:17+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tnh3w8/14382_across_30_users_this_week_with_a_free_bot_i/ood3lfs/", "content": "DO you plan to add Linux support?" }, { "id": "t1_ooembcy", "author": "/u/HappyAshi", "updated": "2026-05-28T17:00:25+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tnh3w8/14382_across_30_users_this_week_with_a_free_bot_i/ooembcy/", "content": "yeah ill add it next update! :)" }, { "id": "t1_oolfm0n", "author": "/u/vinnieboy18", "updated": "2026-05-29T16:10:19+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tnh3w8/14382_across_30_users_this_week_with_a_free_bot_i/oolfm0n/", "content": "Mocht je nog ergens hulp bij nodig hebben mag je me gerust een DM sturen. Ik ben zelf al jaren developer en heb best wat ervaring met dit soort dingen, dus denk graag even mee. Al is het alleen om wat te brainstormen of ergens vastloopt." }, { "id": "t1_op1vubt", "author": "/u/chaozkreator", "updated": "2026-06-01T01:59:49+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tnh3w8/14382_across_30_users_this_week_with_a_free_bot_i/op1vubt/", "content": "I've seen OP post this across several subreddits and platforms and I've used the free version and it kinda sucks. Lots of bugs, some core features don't fully work and the "stats / numbers" posted by OP aren't necessarily backed by actual evidence. I feel like OP is just posting this to get people hooked onto this idea and then get them to pay for the Pro plan.\n To be honest, a lot of the stuff is just AI slop code. I ended up taking the free version and modifying/fixing a lot of it using Claude to get it working. Even then, it's still pretty terrible." }, { "id": "t1_op1z0iz", "author": "/u/HappyAshi", "updated": "2026-06-01T02:19:42+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tnh3w8/14382_across_30_users_this_week_with_a_free_bot_i/op1z0iz/", "content": "Been traveling for a few weeks so the open source hasn’t gotten a push lately, but it’s been stable with no new bug reports for over a week. If you branched off your own version you’re not pulling my upstream fixes either, so you might be running old stuff.\n I want people to go Pro, obviously. But the project literally started open source, it blew up so I added the pro version. It will be staying that way, nothing’s getting stripped out to force an upgrade.\n Calling this “AI slop” thing is funny to me. Frontend tooling, yeah I use AI like everyone does. The scraping layer, concurrency, anti-detection logic, that’s not something you prompt your way through. If it were that easy this would already exist. I’m a solo dev, so I will use whatever I need to speed up the dev process." }, { "id": "t1_op1z4oi", "author": "/u/HappyAshi", "updated": "2026-06-01T02:20:26+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tnh3w8/14382_across_30_users_this_week_with_a_free_bot_i/op1z4oi/", "content": "https://preview.redd.it/1770srjpzk4h1.jpeg?width=1206&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=d08a919ee36c4eaa069ffcbcddd224df26e79546" }, { "id": "t1_op1z5nn", "author": "/u/HappyAshi", "updated": "2026-06-01T02:20:36+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tnh3w8/14382_across_30_users_this_week_with_a_free_bot_i/op1z5nn/", "content": "https://preview.redd.it/vsd5z6yqzk4h1.jpeg?width=1206&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=a4dac3938a86b6e6a0ee8153cffd943552175531" }, { "id": "t1_op1yvlp", "author": "/u/RealSirJoe", "updated": "2026-06-01T02:18:49+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tnh3w8/14382_across_30_users_this_week_with_a_free_bot_i/op1yvlp/", "content": "If I understand correctly, you always purchase items with buyer protection. However, are you selling the item before it has actually arrived?\n If that's the case, what happens if the item never arrives or arrives in a condition that is significantly worse than described? Buyer protection may refund the money you paid, but that only covers your original purchase price.\n Since you've already sold the item for a higher price, wouldn't you still lose out on the expected profit? In other words, getting your purchase money back doesn't compensate for the difference between what you paid and what you sold the item for. How do you manage that risk?" }, { "id": "t1_op1zgry", "author": "/u/HappyAshi", "updated": "2026-06-01T02:22:34+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tnh3w8/14382_across_30_users_this_week_with_a_free_bot_i/op1zgry/", "content": "Yeah buyer protection only covers what you paid, not what you sold it for. The real answer is you don’t list it until you’ve actually seen it in person or it’s in your hands. Vinted, Wallapop, Leboncoin, etc ship to you first, so you’re inspecting the item before it ever goes up on eBay. If it shows up wrecked or not as described you file the dispute, get your money back, and never list it. You’re out nothing except the time you spent waiting on it.\n The risk you’re describing is real if you’re flipping blind or preselling, but that’s not how this works. The whole point of the ship-to-you model is you’re the buyer first, always." }, { "id": "t1_onvnruv", "author": "/u/LoZioLuis", "updated": "2026-05-25T23:50:54+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tnh3w8/14382_across_30_users_this_week_with_a_free_bot_i/onvnruv/", "content": "Vorrei saperne di più, posso scriverti?" }, { "id": "t1_oo1kwqg", "author": "/u/HappyAshi", "updated": "2026-05-26T20:42:28+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tnh3w8/14382_across_30_users_this_week_with_a_free_bot_i/oo1kwqg/", "content": "Sure! DMs always open :)" }, { "id": "t1_onvp5ga", "author": "/u/CoursePotential9296", "updated": "2026-05-25T23:59:02+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tnh3w8/14382_across_30_users_this_week_with_a_free_bot_i/onvp5ga/", "content": "Passive discovery, active execution is a fair way to frame it. The real edge here is speed — most people lose flips because they see the deal 3 hours late. How many filters do you typically run at once before it gets noisy?" }, { "id": "t1_onz1fl8", "author": "/u/HappyAshi", "updated": "2026-05-26T13:50:45+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tnh3w8/14382_across_30_users_this_week_with_a_free_bot_i/onz1fl8/", "content": "Good question. My sweet spot is 5 to 8 active filters per marketplace, each one tight and model-specific (e.g. "iPhone 15 Pro, max €600, unlocked, exclude cracked/icloud") rather than broad ("iPhones cheap").\n Past ~10 filters per marketplace it stops being signal and starts being a slot machine. The whole edge is acting on the deal in the first 5 minutes. If you're scrolling through 200 pings a day you've already lost.\n Pro's AI scoring helps here because it tags the top 10% so you can ignore the rest, but even on free you just want tight filters over many filters." }, { "id": "t1_onvexng", "author": "/u/CheatCodeWealth", "updated": "2026-05-25T22:59:46+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tnh3w8/14382_across_30_users_this_week_with_a_free_bot_i/onvexng/", "content": "The real money is in selling access to your SaaS. That's what I would focus on." }, { "id": "t1_onz1gv5", "author": "/u/HappyAshi", "updated": "2026-05-26T13:50:56+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1tnh3w8/14382_across_30_users_this_week_with_a_free_bot_i/onz1gv5/", "content": "Yeah, that's basically the Pro version, same thinking. Free stays free because the OSS community is what made the project good in the first place, and a lot of the scraping improvements came from contributors. Pro is for people who want the AI scoring, more marketplaces, and unlimited scan rate. Both can coexist." } ] }, { "source": "r/passive_income top month", "id": "t3_1t4mq7u", "title": "I started selling digital products 6 months ago with $0 investment. Here's what actually worked.", "author": "/u/angaine", "updated": "2026-05-05T17:43:50+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t4mq7u/i_started_selling_digital_products_6_months_ago/", "content": "Six months ago I had no money to invest but wanted to make income online. So I tried selling digital products — ebooks, templates, notion dashboards.\n Here's my honest breakdown:\n **What worked:**\n - Selling Notion templates on Gumroad (made $340 in month 2)\n - Promoting on Pinterest for free traffic\n - Solving a very specific problem instead of being general\n **What flopped:**\n - Trying to sell to everyone (too broad = zero sales)\n - Paid ads before validating the product\n - Copying what others were selling instead of finding a gap\n **Month 6 results:** $1,100 in a single month, all passive.\n Happy to answer questions on how I got started with zero budget.\n submitted by /u/angaine\n [link] [comments]", "contentHtml": "

Six months ago I had no money to invest but wanted to make income online. So I tried selling digital products — ebooks, templates, notion dashboards.

Here's my honest breakdown:

**What worked:**

- Selling Notion templates on Gumroad (made $340 in month 2)

- Promoting on Pinterest for free traffic

- Solving a very specific problem instead of being general

**What flopped:**

- Trying to sell to everyone (too broad = zero sales)

- Paid ads before validating the product

- Copying what others were selling instead of finding a gap

**Month 6 results:** $1,100 in a single month, all passive.

Happy to answer questions on how I got started with zero budget.

submitted by /u/angaine
[link] [comments]", "comments": [ { "id": "t1_ok3jzmm", "author": "/u/AutoModerator", "updated": "2026-05-05T17:43:51+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t4mq7u/i_started_selling_digital_products_6_months_ago/ok3jzmm/", "content": "Check out the Community Highlights for current and future Mod Vetted opportunities and Newsletter Episodes.\n Please do due diligence on any crypto opportunity. A simple google search could save you a fortune.\n I am a bot, and this action was performed automatically. Please contact the moderators of this subreddit if you have any questions or concerns." }, { "id": "t1_ok65d5e", "author": "/u/Grand-Vision", "updated": "2026-05-06T01:33:01+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t4mq7u/i_started_selling_digital_products_6_months_ago/ok65d5e/", "content": "Six months with zero starting capital is genuinely useful data. The thing most people skip past: the first 60 days are almost entirely about finding out which specific problem your product solves clearly enough that a stranger will pay without a conversation.\n What worked for me: starting with the problem statement, not the product. The products that converted were the ones where I could describe the painful situation in one sentence and the buyer immediately thought "that is me." The ones that did not convert were technically better but fuzzier on who they were for.\n Worth doing early: look at your best-converting product and ask what made that specific person buy. Usually there is a pattern in the first 5-10 buyers that tells you where to spend the next 90 days.\n What is your current best-converting product?" }, { "id": "t1_ok72kla", "author": "/u/Life-Preparation3165", "updated": "2026-05-06T05:07:25+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t4mq7u/i_started_selling_digital_products_6_months_ago/ok72kla/", "content": "How do you find the problem?" }, { "id": "t1_ok7x9lu", "author": "/u/Grand-Vision", "updated": "2026-05-06T09:32:59+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t4mq7u/i_started_selling_digital_products_6_months_ago/ok7x9lu/", "content": "Usually through doing the work manually first.\n I spent years in operations and consulting - the problems that became products were the ones I kept solving by hand for different clients. When you solve the same problem three or four times you know the pattern well enough to package it.\n The other clear signal: when someone asks "can you send me that framework you used?" - that is the product right there. The market tells you before you even think to productise it." }, { "id": "t1_ok48kwz", "author": "/u/Independent_Ad9535", "updated": "2026-05-05T19:36:18+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t4mq7u/i_started_selling_digital_products_6_months_ago/ok48kwz/", "content": "How were you validating the product? From pinterest? Did you use any other tools for research?" }, { "id": "t1_ok4hg29", "author": "/u/Zeepok", "updated": "2026-05-05T20:16:19+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t4mq7u/i_started_selling_digital_products_6_months_ago/ok4hg29/", "content": "+1 I have this exact same question" }, { "id": "t1_ok5fkrw", "author": "/u/Horrorpheliac", "updated": "2026-05-05T23:06:53+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t4mq7u/i_started_selling_digital_products_6_months_ago/ok5fkrw/", "content": "+2 here" }, { "id": "t1_ok72ir5", "author": "/u/Life-Preparation3165", "updated": "2026-05-06T05:07:02+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t4mq7u/i_started_selling_digital_products_6_months_ago/ok72ir5/", "content": "+3" }, { "id": "t1_ok76t8q", "author": "/u/Otherwise_Chef_8819", "updated": "2026-05-06T05:41:32+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t4mq7u/i_started_selling_digital_products_6_months_ago/ok76t8q/", "content": "+4" }, { "id": "t1_okavxiu", "author": "/u/someguyak", "updated": "2026-05-06T18:40:08+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t4mq7u/i_started_selling_digital_products_6_months_ago/okavxiu/", "content": "+5" }, { "id": "t1_okc5w00", "author": "/u/Melkiyad", "updated": "2026-05-06T22:09:28+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t4mq7u/i_started_selling_digital_products_6_months_ago/okc5w00/", "content": "+6" }, { "id": "t1_okffew2", "author": "/u/Exact-Panda-2258", "updated": "2026-05-07T11:36:38+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t4mq7u/i_started_selling_digital_products_6_months_ago/okffew2/", "content": "+7" }, { "id": "t1_okfwnbx", "author": "/u/RoX_G", "updated": "2026-05-07T13:13:46+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t4mq7u/i_started_selling_digital_products_6_months_ago/okfwnbx/", "content": "+8" }, { "id": "t1_okgqkgp", "author": "/u/belitozaurus", "updated": "2026-05-07T15:33:08+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t4mq7u/i_started_selling_digital_products_6_months_ago/okgqkgp/", "content": "+9" }, { "id": "t1_okt2buw", "author": "/u/Zealousideal-Rip5305", "updated": "2026-05-09T11:45:41+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t4mq7u/i_started_selling_digital_products_6_months_ago/okt2buw/", "content": "+10" }, { "id": "t1_ok6c9rb", "author": "/u/vitaminwhite", "updated": "2026-05-06T02:12:05+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t4mq7u/i_started_selling_digital_products_6_months_ago/ok6c9rb/", "content": "Keep up the ai slop ❤️" }, { "id": "t1_ok66vip", "author": "/u/CaregiverNo1229", "updated": "2026-05-06T01:41:34+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t4mq7u/i_started_selling_digital_products_6_months_ago/ok66vip/", "content": "Nice but there is nothing passive about what you are doing. Sounds like lot of work." }, { "id": "t1_okvpvl8", "author": "/u/js0uthh", "updated": "2026-05-09T20:20:12+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t4mq7u/i_started_selling_digital_products_6_months_ago/okvpvl8/", "content": "Well in this case it becomes passive after you create a finished product." }, { "id": "t1_okw1mk3", "author": "/u/CaregiverNo1229", "updated": "2026-05-09T21:24:49+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t4mq7u/i_started_selling_digital_products_6_months_ago/okw1mk3/", "content": "It will never become truly passive. You will always have to try new products etc when they start to fizzle out." }, { "id": "t1_ok7ij69", "author": "/u/MathematicianFar5427", "updated": "2026-05-06T07:19:55+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t4mq7u/i_started_selling_digital_products_6_months_ago/ok7ij69/", "content": "This." }, { "id": "t1_ok42t02", "author": "/u/ElegantPower5344", "updated": "2026-05-05T19:09:35+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t4mq7u/i_started_selling_digital_products_6_months_ago/ok42t02/", "content": "Did you only use Pinterest for traffic? Have you tried using paid channels?" }, { "id": "t1_ok6m17y", "author": "/u/NameMint", "updated": "2026-05-06T03:09:40+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t4mq7u/i_started_selling_digital_products_6_months_ago/ok6m17y/", "content": "The "solve a specific problem" tip is the real unlock. Pinterest + Gumroad is an underrated combo. Pinterest has insane longevity on pins compared to other platforms, so traffic compounds over time unlike Instagram or TikTok.\n One question: Did you build an email list from buyers, or purely relying on repeat Gumroad traffic?" }, { "id": "t1_ok7iv4q", "author": "/u/MathematicianFar5427", "updated": "2026-05-06T07:22:51+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t4mq7u/i_started_selling_digital_products_6_months_ago/ok7iv4q/", "content": "$1,100 for six months work doesn’t seem like much.\n How many total hours did you work to get this money?\n Why do you call it “passive income” when you had to work so much for it?" }, { "id": "t1_ol6tzv3", "author": "/u/Zealousideal-Eye4154", "updated": "2026-05-11T14:53:13+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t4mq7u/i_started_selling_digital_products_6_months_ago/ol6tzv3/", "content": "for a subreddit about passive income there sure seems to be a bunch of people that don't understand what it means.\n I'm hoping to make some Revit families and templates for character sheets for roleplaying games" }, { "id": "t1_ok412y4", "author": "/u/Fast_Fly_8354", "updated": "2026-05-05T19:01:36+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t4mq7u/i_started_selling_digital_products_6_months_ago/ok412y4/", "content": "most people fail because they go broad and skip validating demand first" }, { "id": "t1_ok59ovs", "author": "/u/Party-Ad-7317", "updated": "2026-05-05T22:34:28+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t4mq7u/i_started_selling_digital_products_6_months_ago/ok59ovs/", "content": "Where Can I promote digital reselling ?" }, { "id": "t1_okqwd6o", "author": "/u/yusufdigitalbiz", "updated": "2026-05-09T01:21:52+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t4mq7u/i_started_selling_digital_products_6_months_ago/okqwd6o/", "content": "Did you've started or still feeling lost?" }, { "id": "t1_ol0svgq", "author": "/u/Spiritual_Line_4123", "updated": "2026-05-10T16:37:33+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t4mq7u/i_started_selling_digital_products_6_months_ago/ol0svgq/", "content": "That's what I'm trying to do with merchant first commerce angle, starting with offering digital products for merchants to sell but really focused on bringing back a merchant first angle to commerce. Since so many merchants getting hammered by friendly fraud. Trying to create the platform that respects the merchant and wants to give more value than we take." }, { "id": "t1_ok4ggb3", "author": "/u/Chemical_Key3996", "updated": "2026-05-05T20:11:53+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t4mq7u/i_started_selling_digital_products_6_months_ago/ok4ggb3/", "content": "nice progress" }, { "id": "t1_ok54iyk", "author": "/u/Excellent-Iron-8023", "updated": "2026-05-05T22:06:22+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t4mq7u/i_started_selling_digital_products_6_months_ago/ok54iyk/", "content": "What is your niche if one may ask?" }, { "id": "t1_ok89gx6", "author": "/u/Any-Cap-3420", "updated": "2026-05-06T11:08:25+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t4mq7u/i_started_selling_digital_products_6_months_ago/ok89gx6/", "content": "Love this! clear lessons and real results. Great proof that focus beats budget." }, { "id": "t1_okavw5s", "author": "/u/bookkeeping-2026", "updated": "2026-05-06T18:39:58+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t4mq7u/i_started_selling_digital_products_6_months_ago/okavw5s/", "content": "Really interesting breakdown — especially the point about solving a very specific problem instead of staying broad.\n One thing I’ve been struggling with is that my niche is manufacturing operations/CNC-related visibility problems (capacity, scheduling, quoting drift, bottlenecks, etc.), and the audience feels much smaller and more trust-based than general productivity niches.\n Did you find that your success came more from:\n\n- the specificity of the problem itself or\n- already having an audience/community that trusted you first? Also curious whether your buyers were actively searching for the solution already, or whether you had to educate them that the problem existed first." }, { "id": "t1_oke42oh", "author": "/u/afreeddh", "updated": "2026-05-07T05:07:32+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t4mq7u/i_started_selling_digital_products_6_months_ago/oke42oh/", "content": "Nice" }, { "id": "t1_okenk11", "author": "/u/Objective_Lack_1189", "updated": "2026-05-07T07:51:35+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t4mq7u/i_started_selling_digital_products_6_months_ago/okenk11/", "content": "I would love details" }, { "id": "t1_okfrcc0", "author": "/u/Sea_Breakfast_1811", "updated": "2026-05-07T12:46:10+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t4mq7u/i_started_selling_digital_products_6_months_ago/okfrcc0/", "content": "How did you identified the problem." }, { "id": "t1_okhh1mh", "author": "/u/KlutzyCod4637", "updated": "2026-05-07T17:29:11+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t4mq7u/i_started_selling_digital_products_6_months_ago/okhh1mh/", "content": "Keep the good work on" }, { "id": "t1_okz7tf8", "author": "/u/LetGreat9467", "updated": "2026-05-10T11:23:23+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t4mq7u/i_started_selling_digital_products_6_months_ago/okz7tf8/", "content": "Hiw" }, { "id": "t1_ol0s9gx", "author": "/u/Spiritual_Line_4123", "updated": "2026-05-10T16:34:36+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t4mq7u/i_started_selling_digital_products_6_months_ago/ol0s9gx/", "content": "Did you find any roadblocks along the way or any shady practices from Shopify? I'm building an alternative for digital products that focuses on tools merchants need, it's not fully up but would love to give the white glove treatment on any merchants that would be interested, really trying to understand the space better for merchants over the last couple of years, heard some horror stories and through it all knew there has to be a better way for merchants. Anyways not trying to boil the ocean here, just start a movement of merchant sovereignty, where no platform owns your customer base or your store. I will be looking out for merchants that feel the pain of shadow banning, algo changes or crazy fees. DM me and we can chat otherwise see you in the field. Bless" }, { "id": "t1_olcffdl", "author": "/u/Optimal_Secretary241", "updated": "2026-05-12T10:26:28+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t4mq7u/i_started_selling_digital_products_6_months_ago/olcffdl/", "content": "Congratulations! I am happy for your success. I just started listing my product about 3 days ago, I wanna ask for your advice on marketing:\n\n- How often should you post?\n\n- What apps did you use to promote your products other than pinterest?\n\n- Did you make all your products or was it a template? I hope you could answer these. I am helping my family financially 😄 if you also have some unhinged advice, can you please drop them.. 😅" }, { "id": "t1_ollgwbb", "author": "/u/ChillWithRakesh", "updated": "2026-05-13T16:37:35+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t4mq7u/i_started_selling_digital_products_6_months_ago/ollgwbb/", "content": "I am also thinking to start sell digital product and iam new to this iam looking help and guiding me\n Can someone help me" }, { "id": "t1_om6b201", "author": "/u/Dry_Amphibian4854", "updated": "2026-05-16T18:33:55+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t4mq7u/i_started_selling_digital_products_6_months_ago/om6b201/", "content": "Great! Job" }, { "id": "t1_omckn9s", "author": "/u/Particular_Trust_330", "updated": "2026-05-17T18:28:51+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t4mq7u/i_started_selling_digital_products_6_months_ago/omckn9s/", "content": "How" }, { "id": "t1_omft9ke", "author": "/u/Ga_content", "updated": "2026-05-18T06:38:30+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t4mq7u/i_started_selling_digital_products_6_months_ago/omft9ke/", "content": "+4" }, { "id": "t1_on0ryi6", "author": "/u/YumYumPaa", "updated": "2026-05-21T08:41:52+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t4mq7u/i_started_selling_digital_products_6_months_ago/on0ryi6/", "content": "What’s the niche here ?" }, { "id": "t1_on71yd7", "author": "", "updated": "2026-05-22T05:49:20+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t4mq7u/i_started_selling_digital_products_6_months_ago/on71yd7/", "content": "[deleted]" }, { "id": "t1_op6soc2", "author": "/u/Irvman123", "updated": "2026-06-01T20:02:11+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t4mq7u/i_started_selling_digital_products_6_months_ago/op6soc2/", "content": "I learned from 1st Digital product blueprint on whop. It’s the cheapest one I’ve found that’s an actual community" }, { "id": "t1_ok3kxbm", "author": "/u/my_peen_is_clean", "updated": "2026-05-05T17:47:58+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t4mq7u/i_started_selling_digital_products_6_months_ago/ok3kxbm/", "content": "nice results, same principles work with software affiliate programs, recurring commissions make income predictable, nail one product good living" }, { "id": "t1_okavvfg", "author": "/u/someguyak", "updated": "2026-05-06T18:39:53+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1t4mq7u/i_started_selling_digital_products_6_months_ago/okavvfg/", "content": "What kind of software product? Which products to be specific. You can dm me" } ] }, { "source": "r/passive_income top month", "id": "t3_1thnjxh", "title": "I'm so tired of 'passive income' really meaning 'be a content machine 24/7'", "author": "/u/Agitated_Mix_1178", "updated": "2026-05-19T13:48:28+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1thnjxh/im_so_tired_of_passive_income_really_meaning_be_a/", "content": "Rant/vent because I feel like I'm losing my mind every time I try to research this.\n I'm a busy mom of two and the default planner in my house. I do the calendars, the lists, the meals, the school stuff, the random birthdays, all of it. So when I finally get 30 minutes at night to look into passive income, I want something that actually stays passive-ish after setup, not a second full time job.\n But every rabbit hole turns into: 1) "Start a channel" (which apparently means daily posting, constant testing, and living inside analytics) 2) "Start a newsletter" (which means endless writing and audience building) 3) "Build an app" (cool, let me just learn that between laundry loads) 4) Some vague promise that sounds like it is really just a sales funnel\n What gets me is the shifting definitions. If I say I need something low maintenance, people act like I'm lazy. I am not lazy, I am maxed out. I can handle upfront work if the ongoing maintenance is predictable and does not require me to be online every day.\n For those of you who actually have something that fits that description, what is the least ongoing mental load stream you have built that does not depend on posting constantly or chasing trends? Even if the answer is boring, like dividends or a small rental, I would rather hear the boring truth than another "just automate it" fantasy.\n Rant/vent because I feel like I'm losing my mind every time I try to research this.\n I'm a busy mom of two and the default planner in my house. I do the calendars, the lists, the meals, the school stuff, the random birthdays, all of it. So when I finally get 30 minutes at night to look into passive income, I want something that actually stays passive-ish after setup, not a second full time job.\n But every rabbit hole turns into: 1) "Start a channel" (which apparently means daily posting, constant testing, and living inside analytics) 2) "Start a newsletter" (which means endless writing and audience building) 3) "Build an app" (cool, let me just learn that between laundry loads) 4) Some vague promise that sounds like it is really just a sales funnel, or some tiny-earnings thing like playing games on Mistplay that people stretch into a “side hustle”\n What gets me is the shifting definitions. If I say I need something low maintenance, people act like I'm lazy. I am not lazy, I am maxed out. I can handle upfront work if the ongoing maintenance is predictable and does not require me to be online every day.\n For those of you who actually have something that fits that description, what is the least ongoing mental load stream you have built that does not depend on posting constantly or chasing trends? Even if the answer is boring, like dividends or a small rental, I would rather hear the boring truth than another "just automate it" fantasy.\n submitted by /u/Agitated_Mix_1178\n [link] [comments]", "contentHtml": "

Rant/vent because I feel like I'm losing my mind every time I try to research this.

I'm a busy mom of two and the default planner in my house. I do the calendars, the lists, the meals, the school stuff, the random birthdays, all of it. So when I finally get 30 minutes at night to look into passive income, I want something that actually stays passive-ish after setup, not a second full time job.

But every rabbit hole turns into: 1) "Start a channel" (which apparently means daily posting, constant testing, and living inside analytics) 2) "Start a newsletter" (which means endless writing and audience building) 3) "Build an app" (cool, let me just learn that between laundry loads) 4) Some vague promise that sounds like it is really just a sales funnel

What gets me is the shifting definitions. If I say I need something low maintenance, people act like I'm lazy. I am not lazy, I am maxed out. I can handle upfront work if the ongoing maintenance is predictable and does not require me to be online every day.

For those of you who actually have something that fits that description, what is the least ongoing mental load stream you have built that does not depend on posting constantly or chasing trends? Even if the answer is boring, like dividends or a small rental, I would rather hear the boring truth than another "just automate it" fantasy.

Rant/vent because I feel like I'm losing my mind every time I try to research this.

I'm a busy mom of two and the default planner in my house. I do the calendars, the lists, the meals, the school stuff, the random birthdays, all of it. So when I finally get 30 minutes at night to look into passive income, I want something that actually stays passive-ish after setup, not a second full time job.

But every rabbit hole turns into: 1) "Start a channel" (which apparently means daily posting, constant testing, and living inside analytics) 2) "Start a newsletter" (which means endless writing and audience building) 3) "Build an app" (cool, let me just learn that between laundry loads) 4) Some vague promise that sounds like it is really just a sales funnel, or some tiny-earnings thing like playing games on Mistplay that people stretch into a “side hustle”

What gets me is the shifting definitions. If I say I need something low maintenance, people act like I'm lazy. I am not lazy, I am maxed out. I can handle upfront work if the ongoing maintenance is predictable and does not require me to be online every day.

For those of you who actually have something that fits that description, what is the least ongoing mental load stream you have built that does not depend on posting constantly or chasing trends? Even if the answer is boring, like dividends or a small rental, I would rather hear the boring truth than another "just automate it" fantasy.

submitted by /u/Agitated_Mix_1178
[link] [comments]", "comments": [ { "id": "t1_omo603f", "author": "/u/AutoModerator", "updated": "2026-05-19T13:48:28+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1thnjxh/im_so_tired_of_passive_income_really_meaning_be_a/omo603f/", "content": "Check out the Community Highlights for current and future Mod Vetted opportunities and Newsletter Episodes.\n Please do due diligence on any crypto opportunity. A simple google search could save you a fortune.\n I am a bot, and this action was performed automatically. Please contact the moderators of this subreddit if you have any questions or concerns." }, { "id": "t1_omp0mff", "author": "/u/lucienbaba", "updated": "2026-05-19T16:09:56+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1thnjxh/im_so_tired_of_passive_income_really_meaning_be_a/omp0mff/", "content": "I actually think the core issue here is that your time is already being eaten by work that has nothing to do with “passive income.”\n Like you said, you’re a mom of two and the default planner of the house. Calendars, meals, school stuff, lists, random admin, birthdays, all of that invisible work is already consuming your mental bandwidth. So of course even finding time to write a newsletter or research an app idea feels almost impossible.\n And honestly, that makes “passive income” very hard. Most people who build something semi-passive usually have one of two things first: extra time outside their main job to explore existing demand, or a job/skill set that already exposes them to demand they can monetize. The common thread is that they know what people need.\n For example, I’m an engineer. Outside my full-time work, I sometimes do small remote server maintenance jobs for people and get paid for it a few times a month. But that only became “easy” later because I spent a lot of time up front building the relationships and learning where the demand was.\n So to me, the important question is not “what passive income stream should I start?” It is “what demand do I already understand or have access to?” The investment comes after that.\n The hard part is finding demand, because that usually means selling yourself. Newsletters, apps, channels, courses.. they are all just different forms of selling into demand. And finding that demand takes a lot of time at the beginning.\n So in your case, I honestly think the first step may not be finding a new income stream. It may be optimizing your life enough to get time and mental space back.\n A lot of the invisible planning work you described can actually be offloaded or semi-automated with AI agents. For example, my wife now dumps her regular Walmart shopping history and household needs into an AI agent. It finds shopping patterns, turns them into weekly meal plans, and remind her every morning what to buy for each day. It is not magic, but it removes a lot of repetitive mental work.\n And the interesting part is: once you get good at using agents to solve your own household chaos, that itself can become a service. There are probably other busy parents, neighbors, or families with the same pain who would pay someone to set up simple automations for them.\n That might be the more realistic path: first use automation to buy back your own time, then turn the thing you learned into a small service for people like you.\n In general.. automate your own chaos/demands first, then money comes.\n Hope this help." }, { "id": "t1_omqa5r6", "author": "/u/wonperson", "updated": "2026-05-19T19:32:49+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1thnjxh/im_so_tired_of_passive_income_really_meaning_be_a/omqa5r6/", "content": "I appreciate this & YOU!" }, { "id": "t1_omsaepk", "author": "/u/lucienbaba", "updated": "2026-05-20T01:46:34+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1thnjxh/im_so_tired_of_passive_income_really_meaning_be_a/omsaepk/", "content": "ur welcome man:) good to hear" }, { "id": "t1_omtuon2", "author": "/u/StunningPurple9560", "updated": "2026-05-20T08:40:46+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1thnjxh/im_so_tired_of_passive_income_really_meaning_be_a/omtuon2/", "content": "The most helpful message I have ever read in this sub!!" }, { "id": "t1_omr4798", "author": "/u/hey_tumi", "updated": "2026-05-19T21:50:46+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1thnjxh/im_so_tired_of_passive_income_really_meaning_be_a/omr4798/", "content": "Super helpful!" }, { "id": "t1_omsafkd", "author": "/u/lucienbaba", "updated": "2026-05-20T01:46:42+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1thnjxh/im_so_tired_of_passive_income_really_meaning_be_a/omsafkd/", "content": "ur welcome:)" }, { "id": "t1_omocq8h", "author": "/u/yhjbox", "updated": "2026-05-19T14:21:07+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1thnjxh/im_so_tired_of_passive_income_really_meaning_be_a/omocq8h/", "content": "Agree. Most passive income online is just non‑stop content work. The boring steady stuff like dividends/rental is the real deal." }, { "id": "t1_omoxgx9", "author": "/u/autonomouswriter", "updated": "2026-05-19T15:55:35+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1thnjxh/im_so_tired_of_passive_income_really_meaning_be_a/omoxgx9/", "content": "Not rental, dude. Trust me on this. You either have to manage the property yourself with constant maintenance calls and finding tenants (a long and painful process) or you hire a property manager whom you have to manage to make sure they are doing their job." }, { "id": "t1_omoyzxu", "author": "/u/izzy_americana", "updated": "2026-05-19T16:02:27+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1thnjxh/im_so_tired_of_passive_income_really_meaning_be_a/omoyzxu/", "content": "I second this!!!! I'm over it." }, { "id": "t1_ompnd9d", "author": "/u/Maargo1", "updated": "2026-05-19T17:50:51+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1thnjxh/im_so_tired_of_passive_income_really_meaning_be_a/ompnd9d/", "content": "Agree 100%. Many years back it was the way to go. Not now. The upkeep, time and headaches don’t justify the reward of having multiple properties." }, { "id": "t1_oms152t", "author": "/u/yhjbox", "updated": "2026-05-20T00:53:31+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1thnjxh/im_so_tired_of_passive_income_really_meaning_be_a/oms152t/", "content": "Thx! but if property values were still rising, wouldn’t that make up for the maintenance and tenant hassle?" }, { "id": "t1_omplalv", "author": "/u/He_ofshadowsandtouch", "updated": "2026-05-19T17:41:50+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1thnjxh/im_so_tired_of_passive_income_really_meaning_be_a/omplalv/", "content": "I’m getting out of rentals right now, so much work and agg" }, { "id": "t1_ompvxeh", "author": "/u/elite_bender", "updated": "2026-05-19T18:28:50+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1thnjxh/im_so_tired_of_passive_income_really_meaning_be_a/ompvxeh/", "content": "Having a great property manager is life changing. I self managed for a decade. No matter how hard you try some tenants are just awful human beings. Now they don’t have my phone number. Any real estate investment should be pricing in professional management into the ROI. It’s a job, and people who tell themselves otherwise are lying to themselves or ignorant." }, { "id": "t1_omoktz0", "author": "/u/Nervous-Ruin-8149", "updated": "2026-05-19T14:58:47+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1thnjxh/im_so_tired_of_passive_income_really_meaning_be_a/omoktz0/", "content": "I have found that most things aren’t really passive. You’re owning a job that you get to do whenever you get some free time. But it’s not passive at all.\n The only things that are truly passive is the stock market and real estate. And even those take a little bit of work.\n So for me i decided to go into real estate. Im a developer and i build cash flowing properties for myself that i hire someone else to manage. Currently working on creating a fund where other people can invest their money in for a build and get the monthly cash flow I’m getting. Better returns since as a builder im building in equity instead of paying for it." }, { "id": "t1_omrc2zf", "author": "/u/YawningFish", "updated": "2026-05-19T22:31:59+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1thnjxh/im_so_tired_of_passive_income_really_meaning_be_a/omrc2zf/", "content": "Is this thing you’re building adjacent to something like Fundrise? Sounds interesting!" }, { "id": "t1_omrf0ue", "author": "/u/Nervous-Ruin-8149", "updated": "2026-05-19T22:48:12+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1thnjxh/im_so_tired_of_passive_income_really_meaning_be_a/omrf0ue/", "content": "Yea. Similar. But I’m doing specifically residential multifamily. And commercial multifamily. And maybe some storage units. I’m also looking into “dorm style” housing where you basically rent a bedroom with your own ensuite. And the shared space would be the living room, dining area and kitchen. Great for cheap rent. But also good for elderly/assisted living situation. Feel like these are pretty safe right now. Everyone needs a home." }, { "id": "t1_omrlzq7", "author": "/u/YawningFish", "updated": "2026-05-19T23:26:47+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1thnjxh/im_so_tired_of_passive_income_really_meaning_be_a/omrlzq7/", "content": "Excellent. I agree!" }, { "id": "t1_onlnnrb", "author": "/u/Lilbeedraws", "updated": "2026-05-24T13:35:40+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1thnjxh/im_so_tired_of_passive_income_really_meaning_be_a/onlnnrb/", "content": "If you ever get that crowdsourced investment thing going, I'm definitely interested!" }, { "id": "t1_onn5rbg", "author": "/u/Nervous-Ruin-8149", "updated": "2026-05-24T17:57:22+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1thnjxh/im_so_tired_of_passive_income_really_meaning_be_a/onn5rbg/", "content": "Working on it now. DM me to exchange contacts." }, { "id": "t1_omouz2b", "author": "/u/Miamiconnectionexo", "updated": "2026-05-19T15:44:37+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1thnjxh/im_so_tired_of_passive_income_really_meaning_be_a/omouz2b/", "content": "glad someone said this. been thinking the same thing for a while." }, { "id": "t1_omp9vh9", "author": "/u/goobered", "updated": "2026-05-19T16:51:53+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1thnjxh/im_so_tired_of_passive_income_really_meaning_be_a/omp9vh9/", "content": "It's a symptom of passive income being a solved problem, and people don't like the solution.\n Invest in a dividend stock.\n It's boring and slow. So people need new hot ways of becoming rich overnight and to satisfy the never ending flow of people who decide they want on the passive income train. Spending every waking hour to build a content farm for pennies will get you those pennies, but the reality of the situation is that every adult with free time is nearly always in a better situation at the end of the day by investing time into learning new skills to compliment a job they already have.\n If you are young and have very little experience passive income is extremely appealing, because you don't typically have the same earning potential. The frustrating thing is that people who are new to the workforce don't make as much money, so they don't have much to invest. So these content farm/hustle bro culture solutions are going to keep getting shared over and over forever.\n If you are impatient and want to see results and get motivational boosts from returns I've always thought that REITs were a good middle ground. You are going to get money back monthly. Tax liabilities, investment costs, any other downside be damned, getting that monthly return does make you feel good, and I'd recommend it to anyone wanting to just start getting passive income right away.\n If you want the simple math I use the stock GOOD (Gladstone Commercial) as an example:\n The stock cost $12.56 (as of right now). Now, for the sake of passive income, just pretend like you actually don't even own the stock after you buy it. Those $12 are gone. Poof. You threw it away. You put it in a vending machine, and you got a little device that spits out $0.10 a month as a dividend for forever. You bought a machine that gives you a dime every month. A mechanical chicken that lays you a 10 cent egg. For every ten shares, you permanently increase your monthly income by $1.\n If you want to get into passive income, start by getting 10 cents a month. Then build it. Scale it. Every time you're going to waste $12 on fastfood, make a sandwhich and buy a share of REIT. Congrats, you've started making passive income." }, { "id": "t1_ompm9hg", "author": "/u/He_ofshadowsandtouch", "updated": "2026-05-19T17:46:03+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1thnjxh/im_so_tired_of_passive_income_really_meaning_be_a/ompm9hg/", "content": "Great way of breaking it down, nice" }, { "id": "t1_omobv5g", "author": "", "updated": "2026-05-19T14:16:59+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1thnjxh/im_so_tired_of_passive_income_really_meaning_be_a/omobv5g/", "content": "[deleted]" }, { "id": "t1_omomdce", "author": "/u/autonomouswriter", "updated": "2026-05-19T15:05:54+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1thnjxh/im_so_tired_of_passive_income_really_meaning_be_a/omomdce/", "content": "You forget one important thing: Any passive income like this (and really, most passive income) is a BUSINESS. A business is not something you just set up and forget it, and people magically come to you. You still need to do marketing and promotions, which is a lot of what all those postings and being online every day is about. I get that there might be passive income sources where you can be marketing/promoting less than others, but you still need to put effort into it. What you describe might happen, but it's going to take time and a lot of effort in the beginning.\n I was told that owning a property (which I do) was going to be "passive income". Even with hiring a property manager to deal with tenants and maintenance issues, it is still not a passive income. I still make all the decisions, and I have to manage the property manager. So I don't think you can get any income without putting effort into it.\n This is what the OP (and really everyone) needs to understand. You don't have to burn yourself out, but you do have to realize it's going to take time and effort. No getting around it." }, { "id": "t1_omp90ah", "author": "/u/Lower_Rule2043", "updated": "2026-05-19T16:48:06+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1thnjxh/im_so_tired_of_passive_income_really_meaning_be_a/omp90ah/", "content": "ur not lazy ur maxed out, theres a real difference and the ppl calling that lazy have clearly never run a household. honest boring answer since thats what u actually asked for: broad index funds or dividend etfs, or a rental with real property management handling the day to day. those genuinely stay passive after the upfront part. id straight up avoid content as ur main thing, it IS the daily posting treadmill ur describing, anyone telling a maxed out mom of two to go start a channel for passive income just isnt listening to u" }, { "id": "t1_ompl397", "author": "/u/He_ofshadowsandtouch", "updated": "2026-05-19T17:40:57+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1thnjxh/im_so_tired_of_passive_income_really_meaning_be_a/ompl397/", "content": "The thing to be mindful of is no one will transfer money to your purse without your generating tangible profit for them, and thats going to involve work and hassle.\n I’m in business and would never involve myself with other peoples schemes, I always just do my own thing, but yeah it requires a lot of work.\n All I can suggest is something you can sell that you create yourself , that people really want, eg turning old furniture into gothic furniture.\n There’s no free lunch Im afraid" }, { "id": "t1_omrbkkm", "author": "/u/YawningFish", "updated": "2026-05-19T22:29:11+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1thnjxh/im_so_tired_of_passive_income_really_meaning_be_a/omrbkkm/", "content": "Boring: Investing in ETFs and dividend stocks\n Boring: I have 3 Airbnb’s on site that I give up 20% + cleaning fees to generate about 2k a month.\n Boring but a pain to set up: I made a few screen share type courses back in like 2012-2016. These still pay for my yearly coffee consumption.\n These three, altogether, pay my mortgage, my insurance, and my utilities.\n Then my day job pays for food and saving for retirement." }, { "id": "t1_ompl83z", "author": "/u/Illustrious_Dust_0", "updated": "2026-05-19T17:41:32+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1thnjxh/im_so_tired_of_passive_income_really_meaning_be_a/ompl83z/", "content": "I wouldnt call any of what you mentioned passive income. Those are side hustles. Passive income comes from investments" }, { "id": "t1_ompwpa6", "author": "/u/Digital_Surface_Labs", "updated": "2026-05-19T18:32:21+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1thnjxh/im_so_tired_of_passive_income_really_meaning_be_a/ompwpa6/", "content": "If you have gmail and live in the USA you can try Claims Genie. It scans your email each week to make sure you don't miss class action settlements. And it also files the claims.\n Free to run your first email scan and always free to file your own claims. Only costs money if you choose auto-file and the charge comes after you get paid out from the settlement administrator. So even the billing is win-win instead of some pay now to maybe get paid later setup that feels bad.\n This won't make you rich and only 1/4 people have an open class action settlement in their inbox. But it works in the background and doesn't add additional overhead of checking your email all the time or setting up email filters.\n This week I added another feature that checks my database to find settlements that sent out mail notices. These often get mailed to old addresses and/or throw out as trash. So a lot of time folks don't even know they are part of a class action. And Claims Genie re-requests a copy of Claim IDs from the settlement admin so that you don't miss it.\n Try it here: claims.digitalsurfacelabs.com" }, { "id": "t1_omunphs", "author": "/u/jelistarshine", "updated": "2026-05-20T12:16:31+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1thnjxh/im_so_tired_of_passive_income_really_meaning_be_a/omunphs/", "content": "Theres no such thing as passive income without an asset.\n And even with an asset you still need to manage the asset." }, { "id": "t1_omusbjy", "author": "/u/Long-Squirrel8257", "updated": "2026-05-20T12:42:51+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1thnjxh/im_so_tired_of_passive_income_really_meaning_be_a/omusbjy/", "content": "I know these only fans requests are exhausting." }, { "id": "t1_ongv55s", "author": "/u/TechieReally", "updated": "2026-05-23T18:07:29+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1thnjxh/im_so_tired_of_passive_income_really_meaning_be_a/ongv55s/", "content": "🤣🤣🤣" }, { "id": "t1_omydype", "author": "/u/Ok-Neighborhood-566", "updated": "2026-05-20T23:03:24+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1thnjxh/im_so_tired_of_passive_income_really_meaning_be_a/omydype/", "content": "Collecting rent and dividends are passive. Anything else requiring you to exchange time for money is clearly not." }, { "id": "t1_onmsk62", "author": "/u/lordofscottsdale", "updated": "2026-05-24T16:56:44+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1thnjxh/im_so_tired_of_passive_income_really_meaning_be_a/onmsk62/", "content": "Yes" }, { "id": "t1_omoelc7", "author": "/u/Front-Parsley1901", "updated": "2026-05-19T14:29:52+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1thnjxh/im_so_tired_of_passive_income_really_meaning_be_a/omoelc7/", "content": "Write a bestselling novel. Some work upfront writing it, and getting it published etc., but after that you can put your feet up and watch the money pour in." }, { "id": "t1_omoy281", "author": "/u/autonomouswriter", "updated": "2026-05-19T15:58:13+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1thnjxh/im_so_tired_of_passive_income_really_meaning_be_a/omoy281/", "content": "Sorry, but I'm LMAO at this. I'm an indie author, and I can tell you this is a pipe dream. Making money from writing novels takes a lot of hard work. There is no such thing as "a" bestselling novel that is going to give you a steady income. It doesn't work that way. Even if you have one novel that sells well, you can never guarantee it will remain that way. You have to constantly be promoting and marketing your writing to a new audience. And one novel doesn't cut it. You need to constantly be publishing, and if you really want to make some money (and I emphasize "some" - not two or three or even one figure money), you have to publish a LOT." }, { "id": "t1_ompvlk1", "author": "/u/Front-Parsley1901", "updated": "2026-05-19T18:27:21+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1thnjxh/im_so_tired_of_passive_income_really_meaning_be_a/ompvlk1/", "content": "and you think I was being serious?" }, { "id": "t1_omp2rbi", "author": "/u/CharacterQuantity263", "updated": "2026-05-19T16:19:45+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1thnjxh/im_so_tired_of_passive_income_really_meaning_be_a/omp2rbi/", "content": "Haha. Writing a novel and getting it published, let alone having it be a bestseller, is an insane amount of work and luck" }, { "id": "t1_ompvesr", "author": "/u/Front-Parsley1901", "updated": "2026-05-19T18:26:31+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1thnjxh/im_so_tired_of_passive_income_really_meaning_be_a/ompvesr/", "content": "No shit! It was not a serious suggestion..." }, { "id": "t1_omqfxqv", "author": "/u/CharacterQuantity263", "updated": "2026-05-19T19:59:00+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1thnjxh/im_so_tired_of_passive_income_really_meaning_be_a/omqfxqv/", "content": "Ah. You got me 😂😅" }, { "id": "t1_omoppfi", "author": "/u/fatquads", "updated": "2026-05-19T15:21:07+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1thnjxh/im_so_tired_of_passive_income_really_meaning_be_a/omoppfi/", "content": "So true" }, { "id": "t1_ompip4u", "author": "/u/Overall-Fig870", "updated": "2026-05-19T17:30:27+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1thnjxh/im_so_tired_of_passive_income_really_meaning_be_a/ompip4u/", "content": "Lmao right .. hello why didn’t she think of this! So easy to do and takes no time at all /s" }, { "id": "t1_omo6ul8", "author": "/u/astral-atom", "updated": "2026-05-19T13:52:41+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/passive_income/comments/1thnjxh/im_so_tired_of_passive_income_really_meaning_be_a/omo6ul8/", "content": "Ah this point just ask for charity" } ] }, { "source": "r/Fire hot", "id": "t3_1tvi0pq", "title": "My investments are growing faster than my salary, and I'm starting to question a 2-hour commute (Europe)", "author": "/u/Noway721", "updated": "2026-06-03T07:25:59+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tvi0pq/my_investments_are_growing_faster_than_my_salary/", "content": "I'm looking for a reality check.\n I'm in a well-paid job, but I'm required to be in the office 3 days a week. The commute is about 2 hours round-trip each of those days, so roughly 6 hours a week spent driving.\n Financially, I'm in a pretty comfortable position:\n\n- Savings rate is around 60%\n- Mid-six-figure investment portfolio (mostly a global index ETF plus a few individual stocks)\n- Cash and savings equal to roughly 3 years of living expenses\n- A 4% withdrawal rate on my current net worth would cover about 45% of my annual spending\n- My girlfriend also has a stable career, and together we could largely cover our household expenses from her income if necessary This year, my portfolio's appreciation has been higher than my salary. I know that's mostly a function of a strong market and isn't the same thing as income, but it has changed how I think about work.\n The job itself is not what was advertised in the job description. Management has once in a while a panic and shifts focus to something completely random. The problem is that I'm increasingly questioning whether the commute and dealing with bad management is worth it.\n A few years ago, I would have accepted it without a second thought because maximizing income was the obvious priority. Today, between my portfolio, cash reserves, and our household income, I have a lot more flexibility. Spending hundreds of hours per year commuting feels harder and harder to justify.\n For those who reached the point where work became optional-ish rather than mandatory, how did your thinking change?\n submitted by /u/Noway721\n [link] [comments]", "contentHtml": "

I'm looking for a reality check.

I'm in a well-paid job, but I'm required to be in the office 3 days a week. The commute is about 2 hours round-trip each of those days, so roughly 6 hours a week spent driving.

Financially, I'm in a pretty comfortable position:

This year, my portfolio's appreciation has been higher than my salary. I know that's mostly a function of a strong market and isn't the same thing as income, but it has changed how I think about work.

The job itself is not what was advertised in the job description. Management has once in a while a panic and shifts focus to something completely random. The problem is that I'm increasingly questioning whether the commute and dealing with bad management is worth it.

A few years ago, I would have accepted it without a second thought because maximizing income was the obvious priority. Today, between my portfolio, cash reserves, and our household income, I have a lot more flexibility. Spending hundreds of hours per year commuting feels harder and harder to justify.

For those who reached the point where work became optional-ish rather than mandatory, how did your thinking change?

submitted by /u/Noway721
[link] [comments]", "comments": [ { "id": "t1_oph0334", "author": "/u/F180R25", "updated": "2026-06-03T07:32:12+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tvi0pq/my_investments_are_growing_faster_than_my_salary/oph0334/", "content": "Can you look for a different job that has a shorter commute or work 0.8FTE? As you know, the current market has been on a 20-30% run in the past few months due to AI and inflation. Its entirely possible to see all of those gains lost in a crash or pullback.\n If your savings rate is 60%, it is clear that you can lower your earnings if it results in a meaningful reduction in commute or work hours." }, { "id": "t1_oph0ehx", "author": "/u/tomdon88", "updated": "2026-06-03T07:34:58+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tvi0pq/my_investments_are_growing_faster_than_my_salary/oph0ehx/", "content": "I’d suggest you look for another job, your savings give you a position of strength to choose where you work.\n You are not really financial able to choose if you work, you need to prepare for higher inflation and some market shocks along the way, taking c. 8% out for your expenses without bumper market performance will mean you can be broke quicker than you think.\n If you are saving 60% of your income then a few more years could get you there." }, { "id": "t1_oph26vf", "author": "/u/t-t-today", "updated": "2026-06-03T07:50:35+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tvi0pq/my_investments_are_growing_faster_than_my_salary/oph26vf/", "content": "I get how you’re feeling. My net worth increased 250k in less than 3 months.\n However, you are not work optional yet I’m afraid with only 45% spend covered. Current stock market performance is an aberration and could easily just as quickly reverse.\n If you can find a similar job with better flexibility go for it otherwise suck it up." }, { "id": "t1_oph03u6", "author": "/u/Successful-Bit-3198", "updated": "2026-06-03T07:32:23+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tvi0pq/my_investments_are_growing_faster_than_my_salary/oph03u6/", "content": "man I feel you on this. when my investment gains started beating my actual paycheck it was like this weird shift where suddenly the job felt less... necessary? those 6 hours weekly in traffic just for dealing with management that can't decide what they want - that's 300+ hours per year you're never getting back.\n at 45% coverage from portfolio withdrawals you're already pretty close to having real options. maybe start looking for remote work or something closer to home while you still have the safety net?" }, { "id": "t1_oph0p44", "author": "/u/ZadaGrims", "updated": "2026-06-03T07:37:33+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tvi0pq/my_investments_are_growing_faster_than_my_salary/oph0p44/", "content": "Same 2hr as you but but no other closer job in my field. So found a remote job . Pay jump 50% . And enjoy it way more. Look for a new role near by or remote if you can. A change was needed for me. I waa thinking of just leaving the 2hr job but with how the job market is coming back would of been harder if it waa needed. Now get to do what I like and make more to getting closer to fire faster now. The growth of investment is not always going to be how it is now so dont just jump ship because of it. Whoch how the world is doing even if I hit fire number I want a big buffer in place." }, { "id": "t1_oph5suo", "author": "/u/CPAPGas", "updated": "2026-06-03T08:22:13+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tvi0pq/my_investments_are_growing_faster_than_my_salary/oph5suo/", "content": "When I got to the point where I didn't care about losing my job, but there was enough benefit to not flat out quit I simply stopped commuting.\n I did it slowly at first, then finally just stopped going into the office unless there was a special reason to be there." }, { "id": "t1_oph67tq", "author": "/u/Kokukenji", "updated": "2026-06-03T08:25:55+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tvi0pq/my_investments_are_growing_faster_than_my_salary/oph67tq/", "content": "You’re exactly at the right position to question your future. The ability to do so should also give you a bit of freedom since you’re now you will be doing things in your terms." }, { "id": "t1_oph7tdi", "author": "/u/shryke12", "updated": "2026-06-03T08:40:04+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tvi0pq/my_investments_are_growing_faster_than_my_salary/oph7tdi/", "content": "You are not there yet but getting close! 60% savings rate is phenomenal and will get you to the finish line fast. You need your savings to cover 100% of your spending, not 45%.\n I am in the same boat as you, really close grinding out those last few years." }, { "id": "t1_oph9l70", "author": "/u/Davste", "updated": "2026-06-03T08:55:40+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tvi0pq/my_investments_are_growing_faster_than_my_salary/oph9l70/", "content": "We're in a bull market, check in again when stuff starts crashing" }, { "id": "t1_ophfy80", "author": "/u/klmzx", "updated": "2026-06-03T09:50:24+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tvi0pq/my_investments_are_growing_faster_than_my_salary/ophfy80/", "content": "3 year expenses cash is wild, is this the new meta" }, { "id": "t1_ophgmn9", "author": "/u/Comprehensive-Cat-86", "updated": "2026-06-03T09:55:53+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tvi0pq/my_investments_are_growing_faster_than_my_salary/ophgmn9/", "content": "Congratulations, youre at or near the point where your contributions are becoming less and less meaningful on your FI journey.\n Can I suggest you check out Flamingo FIRE,, its very similar to Coast fire.\n You've basically built a big base, thats the hard part now you can afford to maximise your life over the next X years while your portfolio compounds away in the background, just get a job that (comfortably - nobody wants to be poor) covers your day to day expenses (reduced stress or preferably reduced hours) and start enjoying life.\n Flamingo fire is by your fellow European Tina (she lives in Australia) and explains her take on it here https://www.moneyflamingo.com/flamingo-fi-part-1/" }, { "id": "t1_ophi2m8", "author": "/u/Agreeable-Parsnip731", "updated": "2026-06-03T10:07:17+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tvi0pq/my_investments_are_growing_faster_than_my_salary/ophi2m8/", "content": "The portfolio gains feeling like income is a mental shift, but your friend's right that it can swing hard the other way. That said, if you've got 3 years of expenses sitting around and your girlfriend's income covers the basics, you're in a position to optimize for time instead of just money. A 2-hour commute is brutal no matter how much you're making. Even cutting that down to 30 minutes somewhere else would probably feel like getting hours back in your life every week." } ] }, { "source": "r/Fire hot", "id": "t3_1tuxnwm", "title": "Generally, at what liquid NW does it not make sense to continue working a $100k/year job?", "author": "/u/RadioFieldCorner", "updated": "2026-06-02T17:20:11+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tuxnwm/generally_at_what_liquid_nw_does_it_not_make/", "content": "Say you work a comfy $100k/year remote job. Very little stress.\n Generally, at what NW does it no longer make sense to work this job?\n submitted by /u/RadioFieldCorner\n [link] [comments]", "contentHtml": "

Say you work a comfy $100k/year remote job. Very little stress.

Generally, at what NW does it no longer make sense to work this job?

submitted by /u/RadioFieldCorner
[link] [comments]", "comments": [ { "id": "t1_opcsram", "author": "/u/dm-infinity", "updated": "2026-06-02T17:23:03+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tuxnwm/generally_at_what_liquid_nw_does_it_not_make/opcsram/", "content": "When you have 25x to 33x annual expenses, as usual." }, { "id": "t1_opcwki7", "author": "/u/OnlyThePhantomKnows", "updated": "2026-06-02T17:39:28+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tuxnwm/generally_at_what_liquid_nw_does_it_not_make/opcwki7/", "content": "The older you are, the closer to 25x (50+). The younger you are the closer to 33x." }, { "id": "t1_opczrta", "author": "/u/SWEET_LIBERTY_MY_LEG", "updated": "2026-06-02T17:53:13+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tuxnwm/generally_at_what_liquid_nw_does_it_not_make/opczrta/", "content": "Would 33x still apply to someone in their 30s?" }, { "id": "t1_opd1bi9", "author": "/u/OnlyThePhantomKnows", "updated": "2026-06-02T17:59:53+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tuxnwm/generally_at_what_liquid_nw_does_it_not_make/opd1bi9/", "content": "Yup. 3.5% or 3.3% according to Monte Carlo simulations have a 99+% of never running out of money.\n The 4% rule has a about a 10% chance of failure starting at 30 years.\n I used vanguard's. Google of a Monte Carlo simulator and check the results.\n Make sure you account for all your expenses. INCLUDING HEALTHCARE." }, { "id": "t1_opd3xad", "author": "/u/Chazzer74", "updated": "2026-06-02T18:11:12+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tuxnwm/generally_at_what_liquid_nw_does_it_not_make/opd3xad/", "content": "*assuming the next 30-50 years looks like the last 100." }, { "id": "t1_opd52jw", "author": "/u/OnlyThePhantomKnows", "updated": "2026-06-02T18:16:11+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tuxnwm/generally_at_what_liquid_nw_does_it_not_make/opd52jw/", "content": "Actually the last 150. And that is important since it covers the Great Depression, the 1970s with insane inflation, two major wars (WWI WWII) and a bunch of minor ones. It has gasoline crunches. It is crazy jumps in tech and their fall." }, { "id": "t1_opdeq81", "author": "/u/Doortofreeside", "updated": "2026-06-02T18:58:38+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tuxnwm/generally_at_what_liquid_nw_does_it_not_make/opdeq81/", "content": "Only caveat i'd give is that it covers 2 major wars where the US was on the winning side. Losing a great power conflict would be out of scope for these calculations\n Predictably calculations on safe withdrawal rates for Germany or Japan that cover WWII are very low." }, { "id": "t1_opdxdn3", "author": "/u/Lon3Wo1f", "updated": "2026-06-02T20:23:52+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tuxnwm/generally_at_what_liquid_nw_does_it_not_make/opdxdn3/", "content": "If the US were ever on the brink of losing a great power level conflict you won't be retiring. It would probably come to the draft being expanded to everybody physically capable of point a rifle from age 15-70. So no point thinking of a doomsday scenario. Remember at the end of wwii Japan was training villagers (including children) to do human wave assaults with bamboo spears against the projected allied invasion. Look up operation downfall and the expected casualties if you don't believe me. Germany also was literally decimated (10% of population died) during that time. Again, no one is retiring in those scenarios." }, { "id": "t1_ope1gft", "author": "/u/Doortofreeside", "updated": "2026-06-02T20:42:37+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tuxnwm/generally_at_what_liquid_nw_does_it_not_make/ope1gft/", "content": "The broader argument is that these 150 years of data show safe withdrawal rates for stocks from a nation that went from being a minor power into the global hegemon. And that this is exceptional when looking at the full international market.\n I'm not a SWR doomer fwiw. There are so many ways that the 4% is actually conservative, or at least doesn't reflect the amount of flexibility people have. But I do whether these SWR rates are dependent on the US remaining exceptional, and whether they'd hold up over a long period of slow decline.\n Ben felix touched on this in a video, but there was also a rational reminder where they did a deep dive on safe withdrawal rates when using all developed markets https://youtu.be/1FwgCRIS0Wg?si=xmVReQdtF6KonqkH" }, { "id": "t1_opgl2z8", "author": "/u/AhsokaFan0", "updated": "2026-06-03T05:31:27+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tuxnwm/generally_at_what_liquid_nw_does_it_not_make/opgl2z8/", "content": "I think the thing with those <1% failure scenarios is that it's not going to really matter if you're at 4% or 2% withdrawal, you're getting wiped out in any case." }, { "id": "t1_ope8mdn", "author": "/u/Chazzer74", "updated": "2026-06-02T21:16:22+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tuxnwm/generally_at_what_liquid_nw_does_it_not_make/ope8mdn/", "content": "Agree. Not a doomer either, but I am a student of history, in the thousands of years sense. We will not be a hegemon forever." }, { "id": "t1_opg7cpc", "author": "/u/UpgradeHome", "updated": "2026-06-03T03:53:09+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tuxnwm/generally_at_what_liquid_nw_does_it_not_make/opg7cpc/", "content": "I don’t disagree with you, but empires don’t die overnight. It’ll be a slow, gradual decline likely extending beyond our lifetimes." }, { "id": "t1_opgvqd3", "author": "/u/jelle814", "updated": "2026-06-03T06:55:41+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tuxnwm/generally_at_what_liquid_nw_does_it_not_make/opgvqd3/", "content": "isnt 'slow decline' japan for the past 30 years or so?" }, { "id": "t1_opheg5f", "author": "/u/bazkin6100", "updated": "2026-06-03T09:37:57+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tuxnwm/generally_at_what_liquid_nw_does_it_not_make/opheg5f/", "content": "that's the point of diversification into global stocks. Presumably, if/when the US decline happens, other markets would benefit and drive the returns. There were plenty of periods when the international stocks ourperformed US stocks and it will happen if the US declines" }, { "id": "t1_opd62ov", "author": "/u/Chazzer74", "updated": "2026-06-02T18:20:33+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tuxnwm/generally_at_what_liquid_nw_does_it_not_make/opd62ov/", "content": "Has it covered a period of declining working age population in the US?" }, { "id": "t1_opd7mht", "author": "/u/OnlyThePhantomKnows", "updated": "2026-06-02T18:27:24+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tuxnwm/generally_at_what_liquid_nw_does_it_not_make/opd7mht/", "content": "Actually yes.\n The US's reaction was to add women to the workforce to augment productivity.\n Or do you not realize just how draining WWII was to the male population. "33% of all men of military age (and about 42% of men over 18) served" 416,800 died out of 134M total people. All of those that died were of working age." }, { "id": "t1_opdaeew", "author": "/u/Chazzer74", "updated": "2026-06-02T18:39:37+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tuxnwm/generally_at_what_liquid_nw_does_it_not_make/opdaeew/", "content": "So 0.3% of the population died. Then the remainder came back and made the baby boom.\n As big as those events sit in our memory, they were blips compared to the demographic shift going on.\n This is not going to be a 5 year interlude. Per St Louis Fed, fertility rate has dropped from 3.65 in 1960 to 1.61 in 2023. Call me crazy, but I think that’s a pretty big headwind.\n https://fred.stlouisfed.org/series/SPDYNTFRTINUSA" }, { "id": "t1_opdc671", "author": "/u/OnlyThePhantomKnows", "updated": "2026-06-02T18:47:24+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tuxnwm/generally_at_what_liquid_nw_does_it_not_make/opdc671/", "content": "And if the US returns to its roots we will be fine.\n "Give me your tired, your poor, your huddled masses"\n We have continued a population increase despite a negative birth rate. All we need to do is keep immigration up. They will not be WASPs but in a generation, they will be Americans just like the rest of us." }, { "id": "t1_opg8zzd", "author": "/u/Ok_Efficiency_2246", "updated": "2026-06-03T04:04:10+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tuxnwm/generally_at_what_liquid_nw_does_it_not_make/opg8zzd/", "content": "Jeesh, if only there was a way to keep our population, workforce and economy stabilized and even growing? Like a way for people to come here from other places and work/contribute …what’s the word?" }, { "id": "t1_opd6v3a", "author": "/u/Both-Dingo69420", "updated": "2026-06-02T18:24:00+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tuxnwm/generally_at_what_liquid_nw_does_it_not_make/opd6v3a/", "content": "Great Depression, WWI, WWII\n Hmm..." }, { "id": "t1_opd7qgh", "author": "/u/MnkyBzns", "updated": "2026-06-02T18:27:53+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tuxnwm/generally_at_what_liquid_nw_does_it_not_make/opd7qgh/", "content": "Can't expect them to save for retirement AND learn history" }, { "id": "t1_openq8i", "author": "/u/Chazzer74", "updated": "2026-06-02T22:32:17+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tuxnwm/generally_at_what_liquid_nw_does_it_not_make/openq8i/", "content": "Oh I know my history. I know Roman history and Spanish history and British history and Chinese history. No one stays on top forever. The financial markets are forward looking.\n I’m merely pointing out that the underlying trend of the last 100-150 years is not guaranteed to continue." }, { "id": "t1_oped5vw", "author": "/u/Several_Stick_3771", "updated": "2026-06-02T21:38:30+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tuxnwm/generally_at_what_liquid_nw_does_it_not_make/oped5vw/", "content": "Lol" }, { "id": "t1_opd36h9", "author": "/u/Western-Ad8951", "updated": "2026-06-02T18:07:56+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tuxnwm/generally_at_what_liquid_nw_does_it_not_make/opd36h9/", "content": "What tool do you use for these Monte Carlo simulations?! I’ve always heard about them but never done myself" }, { "id": "t1_opd5nok", "author": "/u/svhelloworld", "updated": "2026-06-02T18:18:45+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tuxnwm/generally_at_what_liquid_nw_does_it_not_make/opd5nok/", "content": "FiCalc is also awesome. Especially for historical backtesting." }, { "id": "t1_opd4m9r", "author": "/u/OnlyThePhantomKnows", "updated": "2026-06-02T18:14:12+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tuxnwm/generally_at_what_liquid_nw_does_it_not_make/opd4m9r/", "content": "I personally used the Vanguard Monte Carlo simulator. Just google "Monte Carlo simulator" and you will run into a bunch." }, { "id": "t1_opd4pmh", "author": "/u/Western-Ad8951", "updated": "2026-06-02T18:14:37+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tuxnwm/generally_at_what_liquid_nw_does_it_not_make/opd4pmh/", "content": "Thanks so much!" }, { "id": "t1_opda4fi", "author": "/u/Healthy_Effort1415", "updated": "2026-06-02T18:38:24+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tuxnwm/generally_at_what_liquid_nw_does_it_not_make/opda4fi/", "content": "Depending on your background, you can create one in Excel if you're looking for something offline." }, { "id": "t1_opdf4o7", "author": "/u/brentus", "updated": "2026-06-02T19:00:24+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tuxnwm/generally_at_what_liquid_nw_does_it_not_make/opdf4o7/", "content": "abelscalculators.com has a really nice montecarlo simulators where you can stack investment strategies and see the histogram side by side." }, { "id": "t1_opfe615", "author": "/u/DIperez54", "updated": "2026-06-03T00:58:18+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tuxnwm/generally_at_what_liquid_nw_does_it_not_make/opfe615/", "content": "How do I learn about all this like how to withdraw and taxes etc ?" }, { "id": "t1_opfi4os", "author": "/u/OnlyThePhantomKnows", "updated": "2026-06-03T01:20:45+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tuxnwm/generally_at_what_liquid_nw_does_it_not_make/opfi4os/", "content": "Tax information is available on irs.gov and you might consder a fee only fiduciary financial advisor" }, { "id": "t1_opgbu52", "author": "/u/the_ur_observer", "updated": "2026-06-03T04:23:44+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tuxnwm/generally_at_what_liquid_nw_does_it_not_make/opgbu52/", "content": "I feel like these estimates are way too conservative because I can’t imagine doing something that makes no money for decades.\n Especially for people who are as apt at saving money in these higher earning circles, I find it especially unlikely that people will just laze about for decades.\n My plan is coast FIREing at 31 with 200k" }, { "id": "t1_opd37ti", "author": "/u/Wheat_Grinder", "updated": "2026-06-02T18:08:06+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tuxnwm/generally_at_what_liquid_nw_does_it_not_make/opd37ti/", "content": "The thing about it is it depends what risk you're okay with. In most cases, even in your 30s, on 25x you'll end up with more than you started with. But the risk starts ticking up especially if you have no wiggle room.\n You'll know pretty fast if you're in danger though, because almost all the failure states are from sequence of return risk: essentially, that your first few years are bad and subsequent years can't get you back to where you need to be. So it also comes down to "how difficult will it be for you to return and get a good-enough paying job again"." }, { "id": "t1_opfauhj", "author": "/u/leathakkor", "updated": "2026-06-03T00:39:37+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tuxnwm/generally_at_what_liquid_nw_does_it_not_make/opfauhj/", "content": "My general rule of thumb is I'm going to take a lot of risk when I'm in my '40s. Because if I have to I can go get a job again. I can't when I'm 60 (well I could but I definitely don't want to). So I'm going to take a lot of risk and if things get bad I go get a job for a couple years. But I know that I can't touch my retirement principal that I'm eligible to get when I'm 59 and 1/2." }, { "id": "t1_opfmywx", "author": "/u/Wheat_Grinder", "updated": "2026-06-03T01:48:31+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tuxnwm/generally_at_what_liquid_nw_does_it_not_make/opfmywx/", "content": "Well, you can touch it, either by incurring penalties or if you know far enough in advance you'll be needing it, via roth conversions." }, { "id": "t1_opfnah7", "author": "/u/leathakkor", "updated": "2026-06-03T01:50:22+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tuxnwm/generally_at_what_liquid_nw_does_it_not_make/opfnah7/", "content": "The whole point is to not do that and that bucket is my safety net. And if I feel like I need to touch it, I go get a job so that I can retire successfully.\n Basically the minute that I go to grab it like it's a second parachute I know to go get a job. It's the Canary in the coal mine." }, { "id": "t1_ope5unv", "author": "/u/PghSubie", "updated": "2026-06-02T21:03:01+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tuxnwm/generally_at_what_liquid_nw_does_it_not_make/ope5unv/", "content": "If you're in your 30s, you have a LOT of years of unknowns ahead of you. Life is to be enjoyed. Go do that" }, { "id": "t1_ope6tt5", "author": "/u/Over_Efficiency_2605", "updated": "2026-06-02T21:07:44+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tuxnwm/generally_at_what_liquid_nw_does_it_not_make/ope6tt5/", "content": "If you're retiring in your 30's yes. If you're retiring later than the older you get the closer to 25x it becomes." }, { "id": "t1_opd54ka", "author": "/u/WholeAbject3597", "updated": "2026-06-02T18:16:25+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tuxnwm/generally_at_what_liquid_nw_does_it_not_make/opd54ka/", "content": "maybe I'm over-saving but I'm planning to retire at 52 with 33x" }, { "id": "t1_opd6riz", "author": "/u/Krusty_Bear", "updated": "2026-06-02T18:23:34+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tuxnwm/generally_at_what_liquid_nw_does_it_not_make/opd6riz/", "content": "You are over saving. If that's what you want to do, go for it, it's your life, but you definitely don't need 33x when you're already 52." }, { "id": "t1_opgjbw1", "author": "/u/Ohitsworkingnow", "updated": "2026-06-03T05:18:08+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tuxnwm/generally_at_what_liquid_nw_does_it_not_make/opgjbw1/", "content": "33x is still overkill no? At even just 6% interest you’d be making 2x your annual expenses in interest a year." }, { "id": "t1_opgkd2y", "author": "/u/Prophet_Ezio", "updated": "2026-06-03T05:25:58+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tuxnwm/generally_at_what_liquid_nw_does_it_not_make/opgkd2y/", "content": "Why 25-33? Is there a framework behind it?" }, { "id": "t1_opcxpba", "author": "/u/Old_Error_509", "updated": "2026-06-02T17:44:21+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tuxnwm/generally_at_what_liquid_nw_does_it_not_make/opcxpba/", "content": "You’re probably being too conservative. It’s more like 20x to 25x (4%-5%), even with a 50 year time horizon, according to the guy who made up the 4% rule.\n https://www.bengenfs.com/wp-content/uploads/READ-THIS-FIRST-HOW-TO-USE-THE-TOOLS-Scenario-2.18.pdf\n https://www.bengenfs.com/wp-content/uploads/Table-2.18B-SAFEMAX-FINDER-mod-inflation-Scenario-2.18revised-2026-02-25.pdf" }, { "id": "t1_opd23xt", "author": "/u/ArclightJinx23", "updated": "2026-06-02T18:03:19+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tuxnwm/generally_at_what_liquid_nw_does_it_not_make/opd23xt/", "content": "The boring answer is usually the correct one in FIRE discussions." }, { "id": "t1_opdu8v1", "author": "/u/Thelonius_Dunk", "updated": "2026-06-02T20:09:34+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tuxnwm/generally_at_what_liquid_nw_does_it_not_make/opdu8v1/", "content": "Yep. Most of the questions can be answered in the wiki honestly. But I do understand the appeal of having discussions so you can insight from individuals' experiences with FIRE." }, { "id": "t1_opd2jjd", "author": "/u/4DeltaSphinx", "updated": "2026-06-02T18:05:11+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tuxnwm/generally_at_what_liquid_nw_does_it_not_make/opd2jjd/", "content": "That's the mathematical answer, but I think the emotional answer is often higher. A lot of people reach 25x expenses and still keep working because they want more security, a bigger cushion against market downturns, or simply because walking away from a steady $100k salary feels harder than the spreadsheets suggest. The numbers tell you when you can stop, not necessarily when you'll feel comfortable stopping." }, { "id": "t1_opfi2vi", "author": "/u/ubergeek66", "updated": "2026-06-03T01:20:27+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tuxnwm/generally_at_what_liquid_nw_does_it_not_make/opfi2vi/", "content": ""The three most harmful addictions are heroin, carbohydrates, and a monthly salary." Nassim Nicholas Taleb" }, { "id": "t1_opcy189", "author": "/u/im_locked_in", "updated": "2026-06-02T17:45:45+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tuxnwm/generally_at_what_liquid_nw_does_it_not_make/opcy189/", "content": "Yep. The only correct answer" }, { "id": "t1_opd291q", "author": "/u/SignalMire77", "updated": "2026-06-02T18:03:57+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tuxnwm/generally_at_what_liquid_nw_does_it_not_make/opd291q/", "content": "Pretty much. Once your portfolio can reliably cover your spending, continuing to work becomes more about wanting the extra margin than actually needing the paycheck." }, { "id": "t1_opd89uk", "author": "/u/bean930", "updated": "2026-06-02T18:30:16+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tuxnwm/generally_at_what_liquid_nw_does_it_not_make/opd89uk/", "content": "Do you take 25x-33x your current-year spending? Or should I account for an inflation factor?\n Sorry, this might be a common question. I just recently started my FIRE journey." }, { "id": "t1_opdgjh4", "author": "/u/ANewCleanSlate", "updated": "2026-06-02T19:06:41+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tuxnwm/generally_at_what_liquid_nw_does_it_not_make/opdgjh4/", "content": "The 4% rule accounts for inflation - you start with taking 4% out and then that amount increases with inflation each year. So it's just 25-33x current (or desired) spending." }, { "id": "t1_opddbzh", "author": "/u/Financial_Victory938", "updated": "2026-06-02T18:52:32+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tuxnwm/generally_at_what_liquid_nw_does_it_not_make/opddbzh/", "content": "Is that 33x before or after you account for tax on unrealized gains. For example do I need to discount my 401k since I have to pay taxes on withdrawals?" }, { "id": "t1_opdogs6", "author": "/u/That_Co", "updated": "2026-06-02T19:43:00+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tuxnwm/generally_at_what_liquid_nw_does_it_not_make/opdogs6/", "content": "Spending means housing, food, gifts, travel, commuting, entertainment, taxes, etc.\n So total spending times that factor.\n In practice, taxes are lower at retirement due to no FICA, and getting proceeds from combination of sources:\n • LTCG (better rates vs income rates)\n • SS (better rates vs income rates)\n • Roth (0% rate)\n That savings should (more than) offset healthcare spend" }, { "id": "t1_oph424g", "author": "/u/ECrispy", "updated": "2026-06-03T08:06:45+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tuxnwm/generally_at_what_liquid_nw_does_it_not_make/oph424g/", "content": "does this include rent? or assumes you own property? does the 25x come from the 4% rule, which is probably a bit high hence adjusted to 33x for 3% returns?" }, { "id": "t1_opcsyi6", "author": "/u/Eltex", "updated": "2026-06-02T17:23:55+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tuxnwm/generally_at_what_liquid_nw_does_it_not_make/opcsyi6/", "content": "There is no single answer, because it totally depends on your goals. Though if you have $100M net worth, the impact of a $100K job seems limited." }, { "id": "t1_opcunlv", "author": "/u/geomaster", "updated": "2026-06-02T17:31:12+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tuxnwm/generally_at_what_liquid_nw_does_it_not_make/opcunlv/", "content": "you could literally say that about 10Million as 100k salary is 1% of 10Million and that is not even including taxes which would lower it to around .7%\n So earning this salary would take over 140years to earn 10Million and that is after-tax but before any life expenses." }, { "id": "t1_opgeqah", "author": "/u/IAmUber", "updated": "2026-06-03T04:44:25+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tuxnwm/generally_at_what_liquid_nw_does_it_not_make/opgeqah/", "content": "You're not compounding." }, { "id": "t1_opct7f4", "author": "/u/No-Cat1037", "updated": "2026-06-02T17:24:59+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tuxnwm/generally_at_what_liquid_nw_does_it_not_make/opct7f4/", "content": "Depends on your target NW / FIRE spend but maybe $2M? Throws off annual $200K exp (nominal), $140K expected (real), and $80K (safe), with serious tax advantages , while your remote job is only $60-75K after-tax depending on city\n Since you said it’s comfy and remote, maybe it’d stay with it to $2.5M instead" }, { "id": "t1_opcu1x1", "author": "/u/xfall2", "updated": "2026-06-02T17:28:37+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tuxnwm/generally_at_what_liquid_nw_does_it_not_make/opcu1x1/", "content": "Did my own calcs and yes largely agree with 2.5m as comfy fire" }, { "id": "t1_opcyroe", "author": "/u/Lumbergh7", "updated": "2026-06-02T17:48:53+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tuxnwm/generally_at_what_liquid_nw_does_it_not_make/opcyroe/", "content": "Is home equity included in these calculations, or just liquid assets" }, { "id": "t1_opd1bm1", "author": "/u/Khonsumagus", "updated": "2026-06-02T17:59:53+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tuxnwm/generally_at_what_liquid_nw_does_it_not_make/opd1bm1/", "content": "Generally primary residence values are not included in FIRE calculations as it’s not a source of income. People mostly are referring to liquid net worth values when discussing FIRE targets." }, { "id": "t1_opdairx", "author": "/u/Lumbergh7", "updated": "2026-06-02T18:40:08+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tuxnwm/generally_at_what_liquid_nw_does_it_not_make/opdairx/", "content": "Thanks" }, { "id": "t1_opeuk90", "author": "/u/KevinCarbonara", "updated": "2026-06-02T23:08:40+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tuxnwm/generally_at_what_liquid_nw_does_it_not_make/opeuk90/", "content": "People mostly are referring to liquid net worth values when discussing FIRE targets.\n No - they're referring to their retirement funds and savings as well as their liquid NW. Most of that, of course, is illiquid." }, { "id": "t1_opfsjw5", "author": "/u/Lonely-Crew8955", "updated": "2026-06-03T02:20:33+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tuxnwm/generally_at_what_liquid_nw_does_it_not_make/opfsjw5/", "content": "I wouldn't include it. Plus, plan to own a home. I read that Medicaid generally cannot take a primary residence away while a person is alive. It can put liens that are effective after death. One scenario is that all savings are spent on medical/other-life-situation expenses and now we are on medicaid." }, { "id": "t1_opg2uc3", "author": "/u/nickleback_official", "updated": "2026-06-03T03:23:20+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tuxnwm/generally_at_what_liquid_nw_does_it_not_make/opg2uc3/", "content": "$2m is the answer. After that it really doesn’t matter what you save you will hit whatever fire number at the same time due to appreciation" }, { "id": "t1_opcvf3w", "author": "/u/Spartikis", "updated": "2026-06-02T17:34:30+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tuxnwm/generally_at_what_liquid_nw_does_it_not_make/opcvf3w/", "content": "Once you have about $2.5 mil you can walk away comfortably. Also, keep in mind that once you are debt free you likely need way less than $100k a year." }, { "id": "t1_opdgulx", "author": "/u/ANewCleanSlate", "updated": "2026-06-02T19:08:06+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tuxnwm/generally_at_what_liquid_nw_does_it_not_make/opdgulx/", "content": "Speak for yourself. Some of us like nice things and experiences." }, { "id": "t1_opdvig2", "author": "/u/Pale_Fox_8874s", "updated": "2026-06-02T20:15:20+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tuxnwm/generally_at_what_liquid_nw_does_it_not_make/opdvig2/", "content": "Boooo I like rice and beans" }, { "id": "t1_opecu9y", "author": "/u/fredochanio", "updated": "2026-06-02T21:36:54+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tuxnwm/generally_at_what_liquid_nw_does_it_not_make/opecu9y/", "content": "I think he was referring to replacing the 100k income with 2.5M. Not that this works for everyone" }, { "id": "t1_open0e3", "author": "/u/anon18274729", "updated": "2026-06-02T22:28:33+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tuxnwm/generally_at_what_liquid_nw_does_it_not_make/open0e3/", "content": "Rice and bananas*" }, { "id": "t1_opfgtfm", "author": "/u/howcaniwinatlife", "updated": "2026-06-03T01:13:13+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tuxnwm/generally_at_what_liquid_nw_does_it_not_make/opfgtfm/", "content": "1.7M at 26? Ball Knower 🫵🏻" }, { "id": "t1_opcstlo", "author": "/u/dabigchina", "updated": "2026-06-02T17:23:19+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tuxnwm/generally_at_what_liquid_nw_does_it_not_make/opcstlo/", "content": "IF it's really low stress - as in you don't mind doing it at all - I don't see why you wouldn't just keep on doing it and treat it as your fun money." }, { "id": "t1_opctnqn", "author": "/u/Doortofreeside", "updated": "2026-06-02T17:26:55+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tuxnwm/generally_at_what_liquid_nw_does_it_not_make/opctnqn/", "content": "It still ties you down during the day.\n Obviously a great situation overall though" }, { "id": "t1_opd62p4", "author": "/u/Common-Swing-4347", "updated": "2026-06-02T18:20:33+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tuxnwm/generally_at_what_liquid_nw_does_it_not_make/opd62p4/", "content": "The number of hours it consumes is important. If it was 50% downtime sitting in an office, I'd rather have the free time, although that also depends on when I reached FI. If I were 50, you bet I'd take the free time. Can't buy time back and sitting at a desk overall a net negative for health." }, { "id": "t1_opcvjda", "author": "/u/Professional_Fix4663", "updated": "2026-06-02T17:35:01+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tuxnwm/generally_at_what_liquid_nw_does_it_not_make/opcvjda/", "content": "It's about 1900 hours per year that you could spend doing different things that you enjoy more than your job." }, { "id": "t1_opg19op", "author": "/u/GoodZealous", "updated": "2026-06-03T03:13:07+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tuxnwm/generally_at_what_liquid_nw_does_it_not_make/opg19op/", "content": "1900 hours plus commuting." }, { "id": "t1_opcve80", "author": "/u/CymroBachUSA", "updated": "2026-06-02T17:34:24+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tuxnwm/generally_at_what_liquid_nw_does_it_not_make/opcve80/", "content": "For me it was the realization that there was a bunch of stuff I wanted to do and work was getting in the way!" }, { "id": "t1_opct32h", "author": "/u/Alarming-Mix3809", "updated": "2026-06-02T17:24:28+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tuxnwm/generally_at_what_liquid_nw_does_it_not_make/opct32h/", "content": "There is no generally. It depends on your own personal numbers. What would be the impact to your life if you lost $100,000 a year of income and associated benefits?" }, { "id": "t1_opcw05h", "author": "/u/Fed_worker", "updated": "2026-06-02T17:37:01+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tuxnwm/generally_at_what_liquid_nw_does_it_not_make/opcw05h/", "content": "Liquid NW is only one of the factors. If you are 70 years old, it doesn’t make sense to work anymore even with just 2M liquid. Everyone is different" }, { "id": "t1_opcvccv", "author": "/u/suchalittlejoiner", "updated": "2026-06-02T17:34:10+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tuxnwm/generally_at_what_liquid_nw_does_it_not_make/opcvccv/", "content": "$2,000,000. At a 4.7% withdrawal rate, that gets you $94,000 per year. Since you also won’t be paying FICA taxes, and you won’t be setting aside funds for saving, this would be more than enough. You could probably stretch it down to $1.5m since anyone with a $100,000 job and $2m in savings is saving at a high (30% + ) rate." }, { "id": "t1_opd9ydp", "author": "/u/BikesOrBeans", "updated": "2026-06-02T18:37:41+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tuxnwm/generally_at_what_liquid_nw_does_it_not_make/opd9ydp/", "content": "The fire number calculation has nothing to do with income, only with how much you spend." }, { "id": "t1_opctjnd", "author": "/u/More_Armadillo_1607", "updated": "2026-06-02T17:26:26+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tuxnwm/generally_at_what_liquid_nw_does_it_not_make/opctjnd/", "content": "Until you hit FI" }, { "id": "t1_opcvi5g", "author": "/u/PghSubie", "updated": "2026-06-02T17:34:52+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tuxnwm/generally_at_what_liquid_nw_does_it_not_make/opcvi5g/", "content": "If it's a comfortable remote job, what's your hurry? Do you have kids to spend time with? Or parents?" }, { "id": "t1_opdi0fj", "author": "/u/compoundedinterest12", "updated": "2026-06-02T19:13:23+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tuxnwm/generally_at_what_liquid_nw_does_it_not_make/opdi0fj/", "content": "Yep. The point of FIRE is to spend more time with kids, parents, your SO, and/or yourself. Unclear from OP what his point of retiring from a stress-free job is." }, { "id": "t1_opctg9d", "author": "/u/TrashPanda_924", "updated": "2026-06-02T17:26:01+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tuxnwm/generally_at_what_liquid_nw_does_it_not_make/opctg9d/", "content": "25x that figure. You’d be indifferent between a series of actual cash flows and synthetic cash flows." }, { "id": "t1_opcwplo", "author": "/u/deathdealer351", "updated": "2026-06-02T17:40:05+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tuxnwm/generally_at_what_liquid_nw_does_it_not_make/opcwplo/", "content": "Somewhat easy answer is 2-3m at that point your working for insurance." }, { "id": "t1_opd1fac", "author": "/u/swhalen17", "updated": "2026-06-02T18:00:20+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tuxnwm/generally_at_what_liquid_nw_does_it_not_make/opd1fac/", "content": "How do you answer such a question when you don't know what the NW composition is" }, { "id": "t1_ope5abb", "author": "/u/retchthegrate", "updated": "2026-06-02T21:00:21+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tuxnwm/generally_at_what_liquid_nw_does_it_not_make/ope5abb/", "content": "at whatever amount supports your desired withdrawal rate safely." }, { "id": "t1_ope616w", "author": "/u/R5Jockey", "updated": "2026-06-02T21:03:53+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tuxnwm/generally_at_what_liquid_nw_does_it_not_make/ope616w/", "content": "This is the only answer." }, { "id": "t1_opcswd1", "author": "/u/Dizzy_Spirit_7440", "updated": "2026-06-02T17:23:39+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tuxnwm/generally_at_what_liquid_nw_does_it_not_make/opcswd1/", "content": "Well, it only makes sense when your opportunity cost of not working is more than 100k . You could be worth millions, but then if you're going to be sitting doing nothing, then you should just keep working." }, { "id": "t1_opcvmic", "author": "/u/ToastBalancer", "updated": "2026-06-02T17:35:23+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tuxnwm/generally_at_what_liquid_nw_does_it_not_make/opcvmic/", "content": "I’d say 3M. Depends on the person though. At least 2.5M." }, { "id": "t1_opct5gc", "author": "/u/mygirltien", "updated": "2026-06-02T17:24:45+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tuxnwm/generally_at_what_liquid_nw_does_it_not_make/opct5gc/", "content": "As opposed to what?" }, { "id": "t1_opd10qw", "author": "/u/PartyFeisty2929", "updated": "2026-06-02T17:58:35+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tuxnwm/generally_at_what_liquid_nw_does_it_not_make/opd10qw/", "content": "Something you like better for less money" }, { "id": "t1_opdah35", "author": "/u/mygirltien", "updated": "2026-06-02T18:39:56+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tuxnwm/generally_at_what_liquid_nw_does_it_not_make/opdah35/", "content": "Why not just stick it out until you get to where you want to be then quite, instead of working years or decades longer than you needed too?" }, { "id": "t1_opcuxms", "author": "/u/DistributionEven9393", "updated": "2026-06-02T17:32:24+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tuxnwm/generally_at_what_liquid_nw_does_it_not_make/opcuxms/", "content": "Very hard to answer, but $1M minimum ($40K/yr expenses x 25 = $1M)\n Personal preference, if your job is truly low stress and enjoyable, go with $1.5M-$2M range at the point you might consider cutting back.\n If you’re earning $100k/year remote job, what are your annual expenses? What’s your age? Do you have dependents? All these things factor in.\n If you’re simply asking how much NW to be comfortable to FIRE, then target 25x annual expenses as a minimum.\n If you’re single, relatively frugal, assuming you have tight control of your expenses and can hold a baseline of $40K/yr. If not, adjust accordingly." }, { "id": "t1_opcy39d", "author": "/u/hdfire21", "updated": "2026-06-02T17:45:59+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tuxnwm/generally_at_what_liquid_nw_does_it_not_make/opcy39d/", "content": "Somewhere around 2-3m you'd be making enough from investments, and they'd have so much more favorable taxes, that you'd wonder why you're still working." }, { "id": "t1_opddxxv", "author": "/u/slowlyalarmedsquid", "updated": "2026-06-02T18:55:13+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tuxnwm/generally_at_what_liquid_nw_does_it_not_make/opddxxv/", "content": "the 25x rule is solid but that's more about when you can retire, not necessarily when you should stop working a specific job. for a 100k role that's truly low stress and remote, the math shifts because you're not burning out and the after-tax income is way better than it looks. at 2.5m with a safe withdrawal rate you're probably pulling 80-100k anyway, so that job is basically doubling your spending power or letting you take way more portfolio risk if you wanted.\n the real inflection point is when the job itself becomes the bottleneck, not the money. if you're still interested in it and it's not eating your time or energy, staying at 2-3m means you can let the portfolio grow without touching it for another 5-10 years and end up way more comfortable. the stress of quitting when you don't have to is sometimes worse than just keeping the paycheck." }, { "id": "t1_opdv7w4", "author": "/u/BisonParticular7551", "updated": "2026-06-02T20:14:01+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tuxnwm/generally_at_what_liquid_nw_does_it_not_make/opdv7w4/", "content": "For a 100k easy job like that i would stop at 2.5 million net worth. Thats when true freedom hits and working feels like a choice not a need" }, { "id": "t1_opcw6hf", "author": "/u/htffgt_js", "updated": "2026-06-02T17:37:47+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tuxnwm/generally_at_what_liquid_nw_does_it_not_make/opcw6hf/", "content": "The NW which allows you to cover your expenses using your portfolio. Usually 25-30x your yearly expenses." }, { "id": "t1_opcw8hy", "author": "/u/Skagit_Buffet", "updated": "2026-06-02T17:38:02+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tuxnwm/generally_at_what_liquid_nw_does_it_not_make/opcw8hy/", "content": "Well, this is me. $100k/year, part-time (half-time), working from home, job has progressively become lower stress and responsibility. When I started this arrangement, we were just barely at 4% SWR, but also had some uncertainty with expenses living in a new area. We're now around 2.5% SWR over a few years of this arrangement...costs increased some, but portfolio increased a lot.\n Retiring this year. I might still be willing to work the job another year or two, but other circumstances have made it not particularly beneficial, and financially we don't need it. Working a bit longer could make a difference in the long run for adding some more luxury into our lives (e.g. more frequent meals out, first-class travel, etc)...but might make no real difference at all." }, { "id": "t1_opcyg62", "author": "/u/Practical_Teach5015", "updated": "2026-06-02T17:47:31+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tuxnwm/generally_at_what_liquid_nw_does_it_not_make/opcyg62/", "content": "For me: 7.5M. @4% thats 300,000/yr so adding an extra 100k wouldn't change lifestyle much. As opposed to going from 100k to 200k you feel it. From 200k to 300k you also feel the difference but less so. After 300k I'd say you have to jump to 600k before you have enough extra cash for you to unlock the next level of lifestyle bloat." }, { "id": "t1_opfi2wl", "author": "/u/BearDontEatThat", "updated": "2026-06-03T01:20:27+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tuxnwm/generally_at_what_liquid_nw_does_it_not_make/opfi2wl/", "content": "I am curious what type of lifestyle can 600k get you? I can't even imagine it." }, { "id": "t1_opcyk76", "author": "/u/birkenstocksandcode", "updated": "2026-06-02T17:48:00+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tuxnwm/generally_at_what_liquid_nw_does_it_not_make/opcyk76/", "content": "2.5 M because that’s when your investments can make 100k just chilling in a bank account.\n But also depends on what the opportunity cost is" }, { "id": "t1_opczf5l", "author": "/u/hardrock527", "updated": "2026-06-02T17:51:41+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tuxnwm/generally_at_what_liquid_nw_does_it_not_make/opczf5l/", "content": "You would have to cover all the extra taxes and coverage an employer provides (state taxes, social security, health insurance) on top of your regular salary to yourself. Expect 2x salary there. Then would still want your liquid account to be growing at the inflation rate maybe say 3 or 4% a year to cover the cost of living yearly increase. This assumes you are not going to draw down the account and hold its value and still spend like your 100k salary. You can also cut out your savings rate so maybe its only double 80k salary.\n Probably around 3 mil and you can live indefinitely living like someone on a 100k salary. 2 mil for like a 70k salary. (Using like an 8% annual return)" }, { "id": "t1_opd4c97", "author": "/u/polar_nopposite", "updated": "2026-06-02T18:12:59+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tuxnwm/generally_at_what_liquid_nw_does_it_not_make/opd4c97/", "content": "Bit of a nonsensical question.\n Do you enjoy the job? Then never.\n Do you want this to be your last job? Then whenever you have 25x your expenses (regardless of income)\n Could you get another job that will [pay you more/make you happier/have more growth opportunities]? Then tomorrow, if you'd like." }, { "id": "t1_opd6gc6", "author": "/u/Puzzled_Fisherman331", "updated": "2026-06-02T18:22:11+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tuxnwm/generally_at_what_liquid_nw_does_it_not_make/opd6gc6/", "content": "There is no formula for that. Expenses, age, inflation, family costs, etc. Too many variables to list. Are you asking how much liquid net worth you would need to generate 100K annually in retirement?" }, { "id": "t1_opd8hu1", "author": "/u/rosebudny", "updated": "2026-06-02T18:31:15+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tuxnwm/generally_at_what_liquid_nw_does_it_not_make/opd8hu1/", "content": "I have a $120K cushy remote job and can more than afford to quit (thanks to an inheritance) but I keep working because 1) I like my job, 2) good health insurance, and 3) haven't figured out what I will retire "to."\n Also, because my wealth is mostly inherited, I do feel a bit of guilt not working, since I did not "earn" the money myself (although I would argue that losing both parents on the early side is a form of "earning" it, I suppose). I do however live a lifestyle that is far beyond what I would be able to afford on my salary alone." }, { "id": "t1_opdo7yc", "author": "/u/rumpler117", "updated": "2026-06-02T19:41:52+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tuxnwm/generally_at_what_liquid_nw_does_it_not_make/opdo7yc/", "content": "Don’t feel guilty. If you quit someone else that needs the money will get the job. You should feel guilty taking a good paying job even though you have enough." }, { "id": "t1_opdaskn", "author": "/u/Short_Row195", "updated": "2026-06-02T18:41:18+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tuxnwm/generally_at_what_liquid_nw_does_it_not_make/opdaskn/", "content": "I don't make 100k, but I'm remote and I pretty much don't have to hustle anymore. I kind of think I'll always need something to do and since I don't have a passion at the moment it's like why not just keep doing what I'm doing while making money?" }, { "id": "t1_opdi45b", "author": "/u/Zestyclose-Dish-407", "updated": "2026-06-02T19:13:51+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tuxnwm/generally_at_what_liquid_nw_does_it_not_make/opdi45b/", "content": "Exactly until you reach full retirement age." }, { "id": "t1_opdiard", "author": "/u/Zestyclose-Dish-407", "updated": "2026-06-02T19:14:41+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tuxnwm/generally_at_what_liquid_nw_does_it_not_make/opdiard/", "content": "Why give $ away." }, { "id": "t1_opdqw04", "author": "/u/ValuableGroceries", "updated": "2026-06-02T19:54:04+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tuxnwm/generally_at_what_liquid_nw_does_it_not_make/opdqw04/", "content": "How many hours a week do you work? I mean what you have going on sounds a lot different than 40-45 hours a week in an office with a shitty commute and a shitty boss. So my answer would be different." }, { "id": "t1_opdu2g6", "author": "/u/AdIntrepid8309", "updated": "2026-06-02T20:08:44+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tuxnwm/generally_at_what_liquid_nw_does_it_not_make/opdu2g6/", "content": "For me id say around 1.5 million liquid nw. With a comfy remote job like that you could keep going till 2m but after that the stress free money from investments makes the paycheck feel pointless." }, { "id": "t1_ope2s2t", "author": "/u/_ii_", "updated": "2026-06-02T20:48:43+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tuxnwm/generally_at_what_liquid_nw_does_it_not_make/ope2s2t/", "content": "My opinion is one should retire as soon as you are FI. Unless you love your job, otherwise you’re selling your limited life for money you don’t need. So the income and stress level should make no difference. Only your expenses and invested capital should be in the equation." }, { "id": "t1_opefxw4", "author": "/u/TenOfZero", "updated": "2026-06-02T21:52:21+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tuxnwm/generally_at_what_liquid_nw_does_it_not_make/opefxw4/", "content": "Depends on your situation, burn rate etc..\n For me it would be around 1.7M$ (non registered so tax effecient to withdraw with no tax on capital withdrawls), but it varies a lot, especially if you're in a country that doesn't provide its citizens with healthcare." }, { "id": "t1_opeyezp", "author": "/u/trademarktower", "updated": "2026-06-02T23:29:38+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tuxnwm/generally_at_what_liquid_nw_does_it_not_make/opeyezp/", "content": "I have this exact situation and healthcare keeps me working. It's chill. It's remote. I like the work. I'm a homebody without any grand travel plans or hobbies that require dedicated time. I will probably do it until I am laid off or replaced by AI." }, { "id": "t1_opf0oow", "author": "/u/Normal_Choice9322", "updated": "2026-06-02T23:42:16+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tuxnwm/generally_at_what_liquid_nw_does_it_not_make/opf0oow/", "content": "2.5 I would definitely be done. 2 I would consider depending on other life factors" }, { "id": "t1_opf8aff", "author": "/u/chatplaya69", "updated": "2026-06-03T00:25:04+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tuxnwm/generally_at_what_liquid_nw_does_it_not_make/opf8aff/", "content": "3-5 mil depending on lifestyle" }, { "id": "t1_opftjcd", "author": "/u/LargeMarge-sentme", "updated": "2026-06-03T02:26:15+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tuxnwm/generally_at_what_liquid_nw_does_it_not_make/opftjcd/", "content": "4% rule means $2.5M to replicate that income indefinitely." }, { "id": "t1_opg28r4", "author": "/u/fratticus_maximus", "updated": "2026-06-03T03:19:26+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tuxnwm/generally_at_what_liquid_nw_does_it_not_make/opg28r4/", "content": "I'm at 25-30x my expenses and work a comfy 100k+ remote job. I'm going to ride it for a few more years due to trepidation over the market, the ease of my job, the healthcare, and also giving my day some structure. I feel practically retired or at the very least baristafire/coastfire. My company hasn't cared when I work remotely in other countries either. I feel like I'm getting much more out of it when it costs me so very little in terms of lifestyle. If I didn't have this job, I'd gain very little in terms of quality of life. Why not just keep the job for another few years and hope they lay me off? (they will not. My company is in a pretty defensive sector and my boss loves me)" }, { "id": "t1_opg4cit", "author": "/u/Menu-Quirky", "updated": "2026-06-03T03:33:12+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tuxnwm/generally_at_what_liquid_nw_does_it_not_make/opg4cit/", "content": "When your investment makes 150k every year" }, { "id": "t1_opgcxmv", "author": "/u/Economist_hat", "updated": "2026-06-03T04:31:30+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tuxnwm/generally_at_what_liquid_nw_does_it_not_make/opgcxmv/", "content": "I know someone worth 18-20m who works a job for less than 50k.\n Does it for fun." }, { "id": "t1_opcujpg", "author": "/u/doombase310", "updated": "2026-06-02T17:30:45+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tuxnwm/generally_at_what_liquid_nw_does_it_not_make/opcujpg/", "content": "3M? 120k SWR of 4%." }, { "id": "t1_opcv17p", "author": "/u/WWGHIAFTC", "updated": "2026-06-02T17:32:51+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tuxnwm/generally_at_what_liquid_nw_does_it_not_make/opcv17p/", "content": "Some general starting points to consider as very general goals are:\n 1) When your investments and savings total appx 25-30x your actual annual expenses (not your income...)\n 2) When you can withdraw 4% of your savings and investments per year and meet your expenses with that.\n That's verry broad and doesn't cover your particular wants or needs or situation. It's just the good starting point. Not enough for some people maybe, too much for others maybe." }, { "id": "t1_opcv6m6", "author": "", "updated": "2026-06-02T17:33:29+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tuxnwm/generally_at_what_liquid_nw_does_it_not_make/opcv6m6/", "content": "[deleted]" }, { "id": "t1_opcvt1d", "author": "/u/Zphr", "updated": "2026-06-02T17:36:10+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tuxnwm/generally_at_what_liquid_nw_does_it_not_make/opcvt1d/", "content": "Rule 8/Limits on AI/bot content and unsupported AI/bot complaints - Your submission has been removed for violating our community rule against AI/bot content or unsupported AI/bot complaints. If you feel this removal is in error, then please modmail the mod team. Please review our community rules to help avoid future violations." }, { "id": "t1_opcvwn3", "author": "/u/AdAgile9604", "updated": "2026-06-02T17:36:36+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tuxnwm/generally_at_what_liquid_nw_does_it_not_make/opcvwn3/", "content": "25x your annual spend" }, { "id": "t1_opcyy7j", "author": "/u/SakuraKoyo", "updated": "2026-06-02T17:49:40+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tuxnwm/generally_at_what_liquid_nw_does_it_not_make/opcyy7j/", "content": "Bare minimum is 25x your annual expenses, whatever it is (taking into account taxes you will also owe and pay)\n But it’s also important to have a separate emergency savings fund, at least 1-2 years worth of annual expenses in case the market drops." }, { "id": "t1_opf30x6", "author": "/u/injapenguin", "updated": "2026-06-02T23:55:28+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tuxnwm/generally_at_what_liquid_nw_does_it_not_make/opf30x6/", "content": "Why is the bare minimum 25x and not 23x? 20x..etc" }, { "id": "t1_opd3mtm", "author": "/u/Awkward_Passion4004", "updated": "2026-06-02T18:09:56+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tuxnwm/generally_at_what_liquid_nw_does_it_not_make/opd3mtm/", "content": "25X100,000" }, { "id": "t1_opd4qzy", "author": "/u/Joe_Betz_", "updated": "2026-06-02T18:14:47+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tuxnwm/generally_at_what_liquid_nw_does_it_not_make/opd4qzy/", "content": "The question is really a personal one about whether the enjoyment of a low stress job and good benefits outweighs no job. If yes, then stay and continue to build your wealth; if not, and if you are at your 25x yearly spend, retire." }, { "id": "t1_opd5na9", "author": "/u/HaiKarate", "updated": "2026-06-02T18:18:42+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tuxnwm/generally_at_what_liquid_nw_does_it_not_make/opd5na9/", "content": "It depends entirely on what your budget is. Can you get by on $80k?\n If you limit your portfolio withdrawals to 4% per year, then you'd need around $2 million (assuming you were earning at least 4%, and just living off the interest)." }, { "id": "t1_opd674w", "author": "/u/Feeler1", "updated": "2026-06-02T18:21:05+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tuxnwm/generally_at_what_liquid_nw_does_it_not_make/opd674w/", "content": "Lot of missing info.\n Would your annual income requirement stay fixed at $100K or go up due to marriage, children, etc? Does your retirement years cost more than working? For most leisure time is expensive.\n And don’t forget health/dental insurance. Most people underestimate the amount that employers pay on behalf of employees. For example, my employer paid roughly $28K/year for insurance on my behalf. And that is with a well negotiated rate due to company size. I’ve seen people budget $40-50K for family plan insurance in retirement and that would be 40% of your projected income." }, { "id": "t1_opd9ek6", "author": "/u/Ra_a_", "updated": "2026-06-02T18:35:16+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tuxnwm/generally_at_what_liquid_nw_does_it_not_make/opd9ek6/", "content": "I thought our decisions have more to do with in-retirement spending budget…than what salary we are earning\n Goal first. First set your goal to stop working when X …..then you’ll know when do to what.\n It makes sense as long as it fits your goals" }, { "id": "t1_opda2zr", "author": "/u/saltyhasp", "updated": "2026-06-02T18:38:14+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tuxnwm/generally_at_what_liquid_nw_does_it_not_make/opda2zr/", "content": "Probably when your safe payout exceeds $100K, but really more like when your satisfy you have enough to require plus some reasonable contingency." }, { "id": "t1_opdbsf6", "author": "/u/NaorobeFranz", "updated": "2026-06-02T18:45:41+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tuxnwm/generally_at_what_liquid_nw_does_it_not_make/opdbsf6/", "content": "I don't feel there's a set value, because we all live different lives. Your state's COL, family size, future plans, expenses and so much come into play. Personally I wouldn't leave my job (under 100k), until my assets are between 2.5-3M. That would give me peace of mind. Someone living in the middle of nowhere could be happy with 1M and quit today, but their lifestyle would be very different from mine." }, { "id": "t1_opdduki", "author": "/u/rhokie99", "updated": "2026-06-02T18:54:49+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tuxnwm/generally_at_what_liquid_nw_does_it_not_make/opdduki/", "content": "As with anything, it depends. On your age, on your annual expenses, etc." }, { "id": "t1_opdg8qy", "author": "/u/shotparrot", "updated": "2026-06-02T19:05:21+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tuxnwm/generally_at_what_liquid_nw_does_it_not_make/opdg8qy/", "content": "$2.5M as of now. But that number is rapidly climbing every week, thanks to out of control inflation.\n Good thing our portfolios are giving 40% returns this year." }, { "id": "t1_opdigzf", "author": "/u/chappy93", "updated": "2026-06-02T19:15:28+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tuxnwm/generally_at_what_liquid_nw_does_it_not_make/opdigzf/", "content": "When you say comfy/remote/very little stress - that’s where it gets complicated and emotionally driven. If you hated your job, and the 100k was what you needed to live on/maintain your lifestyle AND pay for your own healthcare (with this in mind maybe that 100k job is really a 125k job!) then 25-30x is more than mathematically sufficient. But if the job is as you say - and you’ve got the liquid NW, then when it makes sense is when it’s no longer enjoyable and you have other things you would rather be doing with the time! I’m in this boat right now - 160k/32 hr per week, 5 weeks PTO, job is keeping me busy (or busy enough, but not too busy). I’ve got the paid off houses/cars, etc (biggest expense is cell phone/cable tv & internet) and 5.5M liquid investments. Blew way past my fire goals 3-4 years ago, but still need a purpose and something to do all day or I’d be bored out of my mind. I still hunt/fish/golf/bike a ridiculous amount of time. Why go work at Lowe’s for something to do when I can use my skill set for 5x the pay sitting on my laptop doing teams meetings and occasional video chats with co-workers?" }, { "id": "t1_opdleqy", "author": "/u/Foulwinde", "updated": "2026-06-02T19:28:53+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tuxnwm/generally_at_what_liquid_nw_does_it_not_make/opdleqy/", "content": "All depends on your expenses." }, { "id": "t1_opdr7ta", "author": "/u/SamuraiSword22", "updated": "2026-06-02T19:55:35+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tuxnwm/generally_at_what_liquid_nw_does_it_not_make/opdr7ta/", "content": "$2.5M" }, { "id": "t1_opdsghb", "author": "/u/b0bsquad", "updated": "2026-06-02T20:01:13+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tuxnwm/generally_at_what_liquid_nw_does_it_not_make/opdsghb/", "content": "I always struggle to remember that if I was not investing 70k/ye I would need to make that much less. If I made 70k less a year I also would have a 20k smaller tax burden.\n I still don't think I could pull the trigger to their until I had 100k/year to spend at 3 or 4% withdrawal rate." }, { "id": "t1_opdv15f", "author": "/u/LongjumpingTeacher97", "updated": "2026-06-02T20:13:09+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tuxnwm/generally_at_what_liquid_nw_does_it_not_make/opdv15f/", "content": "Are you comfortable with the idea that you'll be set for life, regardless? If so, who cares what they'll pay you? You don't need it. Quit when you don't want to do it anymore." }, { "id": "t1_opdycvn", "author": "/u/Objective_Cause_9855", "updated": "2026-06-02T20:28:20+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tuxnwm/generally_at_what_liquid_nw_does_it_not_make/opdycvn/", "content": "Curious why would you want to quit this job? If anything quiet quit but if it as cush as it sounds then ride that out." }, { "id": "t1_ope28ka", "author": "/u/GMVexst", "updated": "2026-06-02T20:46:13+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tuxnwm/generally_at_what_liquid_nw_does_it_not_make/ope28ka/", "content": "Well, depends on how much money you spend annually. It never about how much money you make, the only thing that matters is how much you spend and show much you save." }, { "id": "t1_ope7z9t", "author": "/u/Commercial_Rule_7823", "updated": "2026-06-02T21:13:15+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tuxnwm/generally_at_what_liquid_nw_does_it_not_make/ope7z9t/", "content": "When the 100k, plus your income from investments, equals enough to cover your financial needs." }, { "id": "t1_ope9rm1", "author": "/u/Walmart-Shopper-22", "updated": "2026-06-02T21:21:51+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tuxnwm/generally_at_what_liquid_nw_does_it_not_make/ope9rm1/", "content": "When you have no interest in spending more than 3%/yr of your LNW in the foreseeable future." }, { "id": "t1_opeeqrb", "author": "/u/tommy94781", "updated": "2026-06-02T21:46:20+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tuxnwm/generally_at_what_liquid_nw_does_it_not_make/opeeqrb/", "content": "why quit if its low stress and comfy job." }, { "id": "t1_opefsv8", "author": "/u/kjmass1", "updated": "2026-06-02T21:51:39+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tuxnwm/generally_at_what_liquid_nw_does_it_not_make/opefsv8/", "content": "It’s based on your expenses not your salary." }, { "id": "t1_opejfb4", "author": "/u/GWeb1920", "updated": "2026-06-02T22:10:12+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tuxnwm/generally_at_what_liquid_nw_does_it_not_make/opejfb4/", "content": "2 million ish probably depending on your savings/tax/spend rate. Maybe as low as 1.6mm if you are living off of 50k a year right now." }, { "id": "t1_opel5wu", "author": "/u/WeAintRichYet", "updated": "2026-06-02T22:19:11+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tuxnwm/generally_at_what_liquid_nw_does_it_not_make/opel5wu/", "content": "Comfy+ little stress+ remote= never. Why would you?" }, { "id": "t1_operqur", "author": "/u/NefariousnessOdd862", "updated": "2026-06-02T22:53:32+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tuxnwm/generally_at_what_liquid_nw_does_it_not_make/operqur/", "content": "$4.5 Million at 56 or $3 Million at 62…" }, { "id": "t1_opes5bs", "author": "/u/Singularity-42", "updated": "2026-06-02T22:55:39+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tuxnwm/generally_at_what_liquid_nw_does_it_not_make/opes5bs/", "content": "I'm probably already there (~25x, especially since we want LCoL area EuropeFIRE), but if I didn't get laid off last year, I would definitely stick with the job until I'm 33x or so. I wouldn't say it was low stress, but I was working from home and making over $300k. It was a good deal.\n What kind of job is this? You also have to think that very likely white collar job apocalypses might be upon us fairly soon. If your job can be done remotely from a computer, you may be on the chopping block. Especially if it is "low stress" as you say. Of course, I'm not saying that all jobs will be replaced, but headcounts will decrease almost certainly. Remember, once you quit, there might not be a way back. It's getting harder, not easier, at least in my industry (SWE)." }, { "id": "t1_opeuc82", "author": "/u/KevinCarbonara", "updated": "2026-06-02T23:07:28+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tuxnwm/generally_at_what_liquid_nw_does_it_not_make/opeuc82/", "content": "Why did you specify liquid? Something isn't adding up here - it's generally your invested money that justifies quitting, not your liquid funds." }, { "id": "t1_opf02lw", "author": "/u/_Losing_Generation_", "updated": "2026-06-02T23:38:51+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tuxnwm/generally_at_what_liquid_nw_does_it_not_make/opf02lw/", "content": "An age would be helpful" }, { "id": "t1_opf3sor", "author": "/u/roccochino", "updated": "2026-06-02T23:59:48+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tuxnwm/generally_at_what_liquid_nw_does_it_not_make/opf3sor/", "content": "What remote job you have that is very little stress 100k a year ?" }, { "id": "t1_opfcf1q", "author": "/u/OkEssay4173", "updated": "2026-06-03T00:48:28+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tuxnwm/generally_at_what_liquid_nw_does_it_not_make/opfcf1q/", "content": "When you have a comfy 200k remote job" }, { "id": "t1_opfmra7", "author": "/u/belovedkid", "updated": "2026-06-03T01:47:18+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tuxnwm/generally_at_what_liquid_nw_does_it_not_make/opfmra7/", "content": "When the risk free rate generates that after taxes." }, { "id": "t1_opfom7v", "author": "/u/mi3chaels", "updated": "2026-06-03T01:57:57+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tuxnwm/generally_at_what_liquid_nw_does_it_not_make/opfom7v/", "content": "I mean money still matters even after you're FI, but generally you'd think whenever you hit your FI number -- whatever withdrawal rate that is for you and also depends on your expenses.\n But there's also the matter of if there's anything you like about the job. Also, very little stress is one thing, but does it require 40 hours a week (or 30 or 20) of your time? Does it prevent you from traveling the way you want, or pursuing personal projects you are interested in?\n I have a job I might not give up for quite a while, because for the most part it doesn't demand much of my time most of the year. I do get calls occasionally and need to set aside some time to deal with a client issue, but I can go several weeks without hearing anything, and sometimes when I do get a call, it's handled with an easy 10 minute phone call or single zoom meeting and a bit of followup.\n I'm proactive enough about scheduling regular client service and that just doesn't add up to all the much time and I can schedule it around anything I'd want to do. It's too much money for too little actual time worked at this point for me to just stop because I hit my FI number, even though I'd definitely RE a regular FT job at that point almost no matter how much it paid.\n there's a number I could hit where I'd just say "fuck it", more money isn't worth having any further responsibilities, but it's way past my standard "FI number", maybe 2-3x it. It's basically FI for the max level of spending I can imagine being comfortable with. If and when I inherit roughly what I expect to at some point, I'll probably be there, but I could easily be in my 70s by then. And I might decide that my existing commitment to making money isn't worth it as I get older and have less energy, or if I develop an all-consuming passion that would take too much time and energy even to fulfill my current obligations comfortably.\n Everything depends on what all is going on in your work life and with the rest of your life and dreams. If there are things youd like to do in RE that cost more money than you can support on your current NW, then keep working. If there are things you want to do that conflict with your work commitments, then RE (assuming you've hit your number)." }, { "id": "t1_opfry7y", "author": "/u/SnOOpyExpress", "updated": "2026-06-03T02:17:02+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tuxnwm/generally_at_what_liquid_nw_does_it_not_make/opfry7y/", "content": "It is real $ after all. I will continue a few more years and pile up my assets for passive income.\n Never know when the company goes under or take-over that could result in redundancy overnight." }, { "id": "t1_opg23if", "author": "/u/redarcher09", "updated": "2026-06-03T03:18:29+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tuxnwm/generally_at_what_liquid_nw_does_it_not_make/opg23if/", "content": "There is no single answer to this since what one needs to retire on is entirely dependent on what they need to live on, and for how long, and what additional income streams they expect (social security for example) and when they kick in, etc. As we thought about retirement, money became a function of time. How long to SS? How much of our spend does SS cover? How long to Medicare? How much do we need in the HSA to cover medicare premiums? Etc. Consider looking into a thing called the Funded Ratio. That, along with Fidelity's planning tool, FICalc, and FIRECalc, gave us the go/no-go confidence we were looking for." }, { "id": "t1_opgwblj", "author": "/u/ForeverPrior2279", "updated": "2026-06-03T07:00:31+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tuxnwm/generally_at_what_liquid_nw_does_it_not_make/opgwblj/", "content": "It depends on your sense of purpose.\n Having something to look forward to is what we all need.\n Not having to worry about getting fired and having options money provide is a very big relief in life." }, { "id": "t1_opcwluh", "author": "/u/GME_alt_Center", "updated": "2026-06-02T17:39:37+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tuxnwm/generally_at_what_liquid_nw_does_it_not_make/opcwluh/", "content": "When your gains in an average year are 3X your highest ever salary?" }, { "id": "t1_opcybnt", "author": "/u/Ok_Location7161", "updated": "2026-06-02T17:47:00+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tuxnwm/generally_at_what_liquid_nw_does_it_not_make/opcybnt/", "content": "5 mils" }, { "id": "t1_opd475g", "author": "/u/Dunnowhathatis", "updated": "2026-06-02T18:12:23+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tuxnwm/generally_at_what_liquid_nw_does_it_not_make/opd475g/", "content": "A lot more than you have today" }, { "id": "t1_opfls81", "author": "/u/Fun-Banana6706", "updated": "2026-06-03T01:41:43+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tuxnwm/generally_at_what_liquid_nw_does_it_not_make/opfls81/", "content": "If I can withdraw 4% equal to 80% what I earn from working. I will stop" }, { "id": "t1_opcx74i", "author": "/u/Hot_Version_3595", "updated": "2026-06-02T17:42:10+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tuxnwm/generally_at_what_liquid_nw_does_it_not_make/opcx74i/", "content": "5-10 million imo\n that way your investments are giving you 2x - 4x what your salary is, should cover most emergencies." } ] }, { "source": "r/Fire hot", "id": "t3_1tv39ds", "title": "What to say?", "author": "/u/stout933", "updated": "2026-06-02T20:32:19+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tv39ds/what_to_say/", "content": "I know this topic has been brought up many times before and never thought anything of it until it started happening to me.\n I retired on May 15th at age 56.5...not really young for FIRE but still...\n One of my siblings seemed kind of shocked..asking what the 'retirement age' is at my work and if I got a severance. Basically thinking that we are living paycheck to paycheck (like they are) and wondering how we're going to live without an income from employment.\n Neighbor when I told him I retired asked if I was 'retirement age'. I just said I was 56 and I'm sure he was thinking how the hell can you retire at that age, probably thinking there was some other reason (illness, got fired, etc)\n What to say other than 'our net worth is close to $4 million...we'll be good'? Don't really want to go down that route.\n submitted by /u/stout933\n [link] [comments]", "contentHtml": "

I know this topic has been brought up many times before and never thought anything of it until it started happening to me.

I retired on May 15th at age 56.5...not really young for FIRE but still...

One of my siblings seemed kind of shocked..asking what the 'retirement age' is at my work and if I got a severance. Basically thinking that we are living paycheck to paycheck (like they are) and wondering how we're going to live without an income from employment.

Neighbor when I told him I retired asked if I was 'retirement age'. I just said I was 56 and I'm sure he was thinking how the hell can you retire at that age, probably thinking there was some other reason (illness, got fired, etc)

What to say other than 'our net worth is close to $4 million...we'll be good'? Don't really want to go down that route.

submitted by /u/stout933
[link] [comments]", "comments": [ { "id": "t1_ope3fm0", "author": "/u/90bronco", "updated": "2026-06-02T20:51:44+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tv39ds/what_to_say/ope3fm0/", "content": "I just bore them with the truth.\n "We drove older cars and lived on less than we made, saved the difference"\n When they don't hear some magic beans solution, most people will lose interest. The ones that don't you can have a interesting conversation about finances." }, { "id": "t1_opeaqf2", "author": "/u/DIYRetiree", "updated": "2026-06-02T21:26:32+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tv39ds/what_to_say/opeaqf2/", "content": "I like this one, just hit them with the unsexy truth bomb.\n However, "My onlyfans really started paying off" is a pretty good response also 😃" }, { "id": "t1_opeg8r7", "author": "/u/MichaelMeier112", "updated": "2026-06-02T21:53:51+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tv39ds/what_to_say/opeg8r7/", "content": "Better to give a hint: “My onlyfans really started paying off when we introduced pegging”. More fun if they don’t know what it means and they google it when they are home. Priceless!" }, { "id": "t1_opeh5nx", "author": "/u/DIYRetiree", "updated": "2026-06-02T21:58:28+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tv39ds/what_to_say/opeh5nx/", "content": "ok I'm down. "furries" also an acceptable answer." }, { "id": "t1_opgbk97", "author": "/u/Past_Top3704", "updated": "2026-06-03T04:21:50+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tv39ds/what_to_say/opgbk97/", "content": "The other day my secretary brought up furries to our supervisor. I quickly blocked her, telling her, do NOT look or do anything with furries on a company computer.\n I have a niece into that stuff and one day went down that rabbit hole. No thank you. Then, cause you know "they" are listening to us, reddit randomly put a furry video into my popular feed. Like WTF reddit??" }, { "id": "t1_opgq1d4", "author": "/u/dsrmpt", "updated": "2026-06-03T06:09:56+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tv39ds/what_to_say/opgq1d4/", "content": "A coworker has a newly minted adult kid who does the furry art thing. "Can you make any money doing that?"\n Oh yes, coworker. Oh, yes.\n Not a super stable job, not a super easy to obtain job, but if you can swing it..." }, { "id": "t1_opeos4m", "author": "/u/therealgumden", "updated": "2026-06-02T22:37:50+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tv39ds/what_to_say/opeos4m/", "content": "Feet stuff used to be enough to pay the bills" }, { "id": "t1_opfwqvi", "author": "/u/Ruckusseur", "updated": "2026-06-03T02:45:06+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tv39ds/what_to_say/opfwqvi/", "content": "https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5QLkHrMNDrY" }, { "id": "t1_opfw0t0", "author": "/u/GreenStretch", "updated": "2026-06-03T02:40:46+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tv39ds/what_to_say/opfw0t0/", "content": "Betsy Kettleman, is that you?" }, { "id": "t1_opfqz3k", "author": "/u/ingodwetryst", "updated": "2026-06-03T02:11:26+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tv39ds/what_to_say/opfqz3k/", "content": "Fun fact: 90% of people on OF make less than 1k/month." }, { "id": "t1_opgpo31", "author": "/u/dsrmpt", "updated": "2026-06-03T06:07:04+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tv39ds/what_to_say/opgpo31/", "content": "OF is a MLM confirmed." }, { "id": "t1_ope17nb", "author": "/u/Most-Piccolo-302", "updated": "2026-06-02T20:41:30+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tv39ds/what_to_say/ope17nb/", "content": "This is one of those unique scenarios where you dont need to sugar coat it. You arent hurting anyone's feelings by saying "I dont have to work to live anymore" and if they they pry "I saved enough while I worked so now I dont have to". Lots of people spent poorly and will work until 70 and will envy you, but thats a them problem, not a you problem.\n That guy who made fun of your 10 year old car while he drove a new BMW? He's the one youre worried about upsetting? Fuck that guy" }, { "id": "t1_opfa7dn", "author": "/u/renbutler2", "updated": "2026-06-03T00:35:56+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tv39ds/what_to_say/opfa7dn/", "content": "This is way better than lying or screwing around with people (as suggested several times in these responses). Either say nothing, or tell the simplest truth." }, { "id": "t1_opg6lek", "author": "/u/StockRocket27", "updated": "2026-06-03T03:48:06+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tv39ds/what_to_say/opg6lek/", "content": "That’s how I feel. I’m not trying to rub it in. But when I retire in the next 1-2 years at 47-48 they will be sure to know it was from PERSONAL SACRIFICE. RISK. let it burn lol" }, { "id": "t1_opgqoxv", "author": "/u/dsrmpt", "updated": "2026-06-03T06:15:06+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tv39ds/what_to_say/opgqoxv/", "content": "My strat is to ALWAYS make good financial decisions. Make 10% on the market instead of paying off the 5% car loan. Live at home with parents as long as possible when starting out. Take advantage of EVERY free money offered by employers. ESPP, 401K, HSA/FSA, etc.\n It's not sexy, it's not a get rich quick scheme, but early retirement requires a bunch of little decisions." }, { "id": "t1_ope1k25", "author": "/u/bunrieu4BLD", "updated": "2026-06-02T20:43:05+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tv39ds/what_to_say/ope1k25/", "content": "say just onlyfans and give them a wink, regardless of the gender asking." }, { "id": "t1_ope3a2f", "author": "/u/asymphonyin2parts", "updated": "2026-06-02T20:51:01+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tv39ds/what_to_say/ope3a2f/", "content": "This is the best answer. It's funny and shuts down the conversation, which is the goal." }, { "id": "t1_opec1qc", "author": "/u/No_Excitement_8104", "updated": "2026-06-02T21:33:01+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tv39ds/what_to_say/opec1qc/", "content": "Also you only have to tell it to one person and pretty soon everybody knows. Saves a lot of trouble and time" }, { "id": "t1_ope9vtb", "author": "", "updated": "2026-06-02T21:22:24+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tv39ds/what_to_say/ope9vtb/", "content": "[deleted]" }, { "id": "t1_opeb8ve", "author": "/u/vbnotthecity", "updated": "2026-06-02T21:29:03+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tv39ds/what_to_say/opeb8ve/", "content": "Anybody long on bitcoin right now ain't laughing unless they bought in a while back." }, { "id": "t1_opdzic1", "author": "/u/jvaritek33c", "updated": "2026-06-02T20:33:36+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tv39ds/what_to_say/opdzic1/", "content": "Just say you have enough saved to no longer work" }, { "id": "t1_ope3v2e", "author": "/u/Firefiresoon", "updated": "2026-06-02T20:53:43+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tv39ds/what_to_say/ope3v2e/", "content": "Nah. Just tell them u are about running out and might need to borrow some money... see em scramble." }, { "id": "t1_ope6wof", "author": "/u/onehotoneshot", "updated": "2026-06-02T21:08:07+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tv39ds/what_to_say/ope6wof/", "content": "Gonna be scraping through retirement by buying scratchers and hustling pool halls" }, { "id": "t1_ophg5wh", "author": "/u/CPAPGas", "updated": "2026-06-03T09:52:09+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tv39ds/what_to_say/ophg5wh/", "content": "The budget is tight with very little room for error. Might have to go get a job at Starbucks or Costco." }, { "id": "t1_ope7yym", "author": "/u/ahenobarbus_horse", "updated": "2026-06-02T21:13:12+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tv39ds/what_to_say/ope7yym/", "content": "“We did the math and realized it’s none of your business”" }, { "id": "t1_opehce0", "author": "/u/Crochet_Koala", "updated": "2026-06-02T21:59:24+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tv39ds/what_to_say/opehce0/", "content": "This is my favourite lol" }, { "id": "t1_ope0ba1", "author": "/u/_Mulberry__", "updated": "2026-06-02T20:37:21+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tv39ds/what_to_say/ope0ba1/", "content": ""we saved a lot when we were younger, so we got to retire early"\n Or just leave it at "we're retired" and don't worry about explaining yourself. Your finances don't need to be their concern. If they're actually concerned about your finances from a place of love/concern, you can elaborate just enough to reassure them." }, { "id": "t1_opdzy9z", "author": "/u/krakenstan", "updated": "2026-06-02T20:35:40+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tv39ds/what_to_say/opdzy9z/", "content": "Mind your f’ing business but nicely" }, { "id": "t1_ope0azl", "author": "/u/Objective-Light-9019", "updated": "2026-06-02T20:37:19+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tv39ds/what_to_say/ope0azl/", "content": "Please mind your f’ing business?" }, { "id": "t1_ophcbn6", "author": "/u/Specific-Ad4666", "updated": "2026-06-03T09:19:39+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tv39ds/what_to_say/ophcbn6/", "content": "*please sir" }, { "id": "t1_ope37de", "author": "/u/Healthy_Effort1415", "updated": "2026-06-02T20:50:41+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tv39ds/what_to_say/ope37de/", "content": ""With all due respect, mind your f'ing business."" }, { "id": "t1_ope40qy", "author": "/u/Firefiresoon", "updated": "2026-06-02T20:54:27+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tv39ds/what_to_say/ope40qy/", "content": "mind your copulating business?" }, { "id": "t1_ope57av", "author": "/u/ThaiTum", "updated": "2026-06-02T20:59:58+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tv39ds/what_to_say/ope57av/", "content": "“Let’s not worry ourselves with that.”" }, { "id": "t1_opek7cy", "author": "/u/jrdhytr", "updated": "2026-06-02T22:14:16+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tv39ds/what_to_say/opek7cy/", "content": ""I said good day, sir!"" }, { "id": "t1_opfzbbh", "author": "/u/General_Persona", "updated": "2026-06-03T03:00:45+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tv39ds/what_to_say/opfzbbh/", "content": "Sir, this is a Wendy's" }, { "id": "t1_ope19to", "author": "/u/Patient-Brief-9713", "updated": "2026-06-02T20:41:47+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tv39ds/what_to_say/ope19to/", "content": "Yes, it's been brought up ad nauseum, and I still don't understand why people feel that they need to explain anything to others. You don't need to explain or justify your retirement to anyone. This issue only exists in your mind - you worrying about what others will think." }, { "id": "t1_ope2g8k", "author": "/u/OCDano959", "updated": "2026-06-02T20:47:13+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tv39ds/what_to_say/ope2g8k/", "content": "Agree. Who cares?\n It actually comes across as “I want to brag,…but do so humbly. How do I do that?”\n These type of posts are getting tiresome." }, { "id": "t1_ope4i19", "author": "/u/stout933", "updated": "2026-06-02T20:56:41+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tv39ds/what_to_say/ope4i19/", "content": "OP here\n I agree with you as I also found these types of posts tiresome and never thought it would affect me.\n But like I said, it's people that are questioning me that is somewhat irksome." }, { "id": "t1_ope69mh", "author": "/u/uncool_whale", "updated": "2026-06-02T21:05:01+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tv39ds/what_to_say/ope69mh/", "content": ""fuck them, who cares what they think" is easy to say about a hypothetical person. Not easy when it's your sibling or neighbor who you have an actual relationship with. It's a completely reasonable thing to want to communicate thoughtfully." }, { "id": "t1_ope6gi3", "author": "/u/Educational_Fox6899", "updated": "2026-06-02T21:05:56+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tv39ds/what_to_say/ope6gi3/", "content": "I sometimes tell people I’m a personal wealth manager. Or when they ask “what do you do?” My response is “about what?”" }, { "id": "t1_opekpbk", "author": "/u/Patient-Brief-9713", "updated": "2026-06-02T22:16:51+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tv39ds/what_to_say/opekpbk/", "content": "OP, why do the questions irk you? Does it make you uncomfortable that people will infer that you have a lot of money? You seem concerned about how others will perceive you. This can be handled by simply saying: I can afford to retire.\n Me, on the other hand - I delight in the looks of surprise, puzzlement, doubt, skepticism, concern, envy, etc. that I see on the faces of people when I tell them I am retiring. It's fun to see how people react." }, { "id": "t1_opeb2nz", "author": "/u/Revolutionary-Fan235", "updated": "2026-06-02T21:28:12+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tv39ds/what_to_say/opeb2nz/", "content": "It's generally better for them to think you're poorer than you really are. If they worry for you, then you could decline if they offer to help.\n Maybe gently correct them that retirement is not an age." }, { "id": "t1_ope1o4x", "author": "/u/Malvania", "updated": "2026-06-02T20:43:37+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tv39ds/what_to_say/ope1o4x/", "content": "Sometimes I say I got lucky with investments.\n Usually I say "Age of the geek, baby"" }, { "id": "t1_ope90bv", "author": "/u/Imaginary-Beyond-986", "updated": "2026-06-02T21:18:14+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tv39ds/what_to_say/ope90bv/", "content": "Leverage reference in the wild? Hell yeah." }, { "id": "t1_ope3r0n", "author": "/u/Firefiresoon", "updated": "2026-06-02T20:53:12+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tv39ds/what_to_say/ope3r0n/", "content": "I am 51, and I am retired a year now. I have very curious neighbors [the literal Jones' in their spending habits] who are itching to find out as well, I just tell them I get by.\n I certainly dont tell them "my NW is 6 mil, and I have been planning this for years"." }, { "id": "t1_ope0n5v", "author": "/u/lsp2005", "updated": "2026-06-02T20:38:53+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tv39ds/what_to_say/ope0n5v/", "content": "Tell them you are now a consultant after downsizing. People will nod and move along." }, { "id": "t1_ope1knl", "author": "/u/ForwardFIRE2030", "updated": "2026-06-02T20:43:10+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tv39ds/what_to_say/ope1knl/", "content": "“I made good decisions”\n And if anyone wants you to spend money you don’t want to spend because they think you are wealthy… “I’m on fixed income”." }, { "id": "t1_opee3eo", "author": "/u/Oakland-homebrewer", "updated": "2026-06-02T21:43:06+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tv39ds/what_to_say/opee3eo/", "content": ""My rich uncle died and left me a fortune. "\n Only say this to siblings." }, { "id": "t1_opeeszn", "author": "/u/shotparrot", "updated": "2026-06-02T21:46:39+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tv39ds/what_to_say/opeeszn/", "content": "Uncle Owen" }, { "id": "t1_ope5s9e", "author": "/u/chance909", "updated": "2026-06-02T21:02:42+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tv39ds/what_to_say/ope5s9e/", "content": "The goal is to be Truthful, Tactful, and Empathetic.\n We've saved enough to make retiring now possible. (truthful, tactful)\n We've been very fortunate to get to a place where we can retire (truthful, empathetic)\n It's been a big focus of ours for a long time, and with a lot of savings and luck we're able to retire now. (maybe all 3?)" }, { "id": "t1_opfb0m3", "author": "/u/junulee", "updated": "2026-06-03T00:40:36+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tv39ds/what_to_say/opfb0m3/", "content": "I come from a large family, most of whom are bad with money. In OP’s shoes, I would not want to say anything about having saved up money for retirement, because I know I’ll have people asking for money. I would want to answer in a way that implies I have a company pension when in fact my employer does not offer a pension. Technically, a 401k plan is governed by federal pension rules, so perhaps one could truthfully say they’ve “accrued a sufficient pension” as an alternative to saved up a large 401k balance…" }, { "id": "t1_opeg225", "author": "/u/dskippy", "updated": "2026-06-02T21:52:56+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tv39ds/what_to_say/opeg225/", "content": "All sub Reddits eventually turn into a social skills sub." }, { "id": "t1_opgvvfw", "author": "/u/2Nails", "updated": "2026-06-03T06:56:50+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tv39ds/what_to_say/opgvvfw/", "content": "I get my social skills from /r/NonCredibleDefense" }, { "id": "t1_opdzszr", "author": "/u/Same_Promotion8879", "updated": "2026-06-02T20:34:59+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tv39ds/what_to_say/opdzszr/", "content": "just tell them you saved up enough and feel ready for the next chapter in life" }, { "id": "t1_ope6uef", "author": "/u/Traditional_Ask262", "updated": "2026-06-02T21:07:49+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tv39ds/what_to_say/ope6uef/", "content": "My wife and I retired 6 years ago when I was 51 and she was 38. My wife says she's a "stay at home Mom" if the topic ever comes up. I just say I'm retired, or I don't work any more.\n Our 11 year old daughter's friends think we're connected to the mafia because we don't have jobs.\n I've explained to her that the first rule of having money is don't tell anyone you have money. And I said she can tell her friends that I'm an investor ( which is true) if the question of what we do for a living comes up." }, { "id": "t1_ope1ez2", "author": "/u/More_Armadillo_1607", "updated": "2026-06-02T20:42:26+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tv39ds/what_to_say/ope1ez2/", "content": ""I retired." Then ask who won the baseball game last night.\n I'm not sure why people on this sub want yo tell everyone everything. Honestly, no one cares except you." }, { "id": "t1_ope3cah", "author": "/u/katie4", "updated": "2026-06-02T20:51:18+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tv39ds/what_to_say/ope3cah/", "content": "“We were able to squirrel away just enough in savings to bridge the gap between today and when we take social security in 5 years”. People who are financially illiterate won’t bother doing very much math to understand or call you out on anything.\n Or just make shit up that makes for a nice soundbite. “My job didn’t have a pension, but it was something like that, like an individual retirement account, and all I know is it is covering me until social security kicks in!”" }, { "id": "t1_ope0kmr", "author": "/u/brentus", "updated": "2026-06-02T20:38:33+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tv39ds/what_to_say/ope0kmr/", "content": "Yeah im in the same boat. Maybe say you've gotten good enough at investing to live off of it. Misleading but technically true lol" }, { "id": "t1_ope1otg", "author": "/u/Visual_Scientist_298", "updated": "2026-06-02T20:43:42+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tv39ds/what_to_say/ope1otg/", "content": "You don’t need to say more than you already have. No reason to explain yourself or your finances." }, { "id": "t1_ope2mis", "author": "/u/DeadPirateR", "updated": "2026-06-02T20:48:01+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tv39ds/what_to_say/ope2mis/", "content": "Tell them you got fired. Give them something to giggle about as you keep enjoying your retirement. You don't owe them any explanation.\n Congratulations are indeed in order. With $4M you will live comfortably from the returns. Just do things you enjoy henceforth." }, { "id": "t1_ope3l2d", "author": "/u/Raz0r-", "updated": "2026-06-02T20:52:26+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tv39ds/what_to_say/ope3l2d/", "content": "I’m taking a break. Figuring out what to do next." }, { "id": "t1_ope4m0r", "author": "/u/BigTintheBigD", "updated": "2026-06-02T20:57:12+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tv39ds/what_to_say/ope4m0r/", "content": "I had a similar experience when a friend of a friend found out I had retired. “So you have a pension?” “I do but I’m not turning that on until 65.” She just stared and blinked rapidly trying to square that circle in her head. I just let her cook and moved on to a new topic." }, { "id": "t1_ope51ib", "author": "/u/azntorian", "updated": "2026-06-02T20:59:12+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tv39ds/what_to_say/ope51ib/", "content": "Say you are in between jobs or it’s a bad job market. Or you’re consulting, working from home.\n When you tell people you saved enough they start bugging you for money. From my experience." }, { "id": "t1_ope5pc3", "author": "/u/Redwolfdc", "updated": "2026-06-02T21:02:19+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tv39ds/what_to_say/ope5pc3/", "content": "I mean 56 isn’t extremely unusual to retire. It’s definitely early but not like 30 or something. I wouldn’t tell them anything." }, { "id": "t1_ope6ep2", "author": "/u/skldjhfksjhdfklj", "updated": "2026-06-02T21:05:42+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tv39ds/what_to_say/ope6ep2/", "content": "Don’t tell anyone you have money. They will want it. Say you’re an independent contractor." }, { "id": "t1_opfr25x", "author": "/u/Firefiresoon", "updated": "2026-06-03T02:11:56+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tv39ds/what_to_say/opfr25x/", "content": "This is my stock answer. I also then deflect to other topics, usually those that cause rage like "so what do you think about the war in XXXX?". It surely gets them foaming about it and forget being nosy in my business." }, { "id": "t1_ope7vmo", "author": "/u/Effective-Money-4037", "updated": "2026-06-02T21:12:46+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tv39ds/what_to_say/ope7vmo/", "content": "Poor people spend a lot of money trying to look rich and rich people spend a lot of time trying to look poor. That is my mantra concerning this. I drive an old car and when I go out I look well dressed, but not flashy etc, no watches, no jewelry, no expensive anything. Am I always one of the richest people in any room? Yep, do I look and act like it? Hell no. I don't want people knowing much about my net worth, not even my family.\n People get weird when you start talking about money, I have tried to help mentor my family members and some of them have taken my advice and done well, but others think I don't know anything and don't know what I am doing and that is okay too! They can continue to work for money instead of their money working for them.\n Even on my bad days in the market I am still making more money than I did per day working from my treasuries, then when the stocks kick in I make more in a day than I used to make in 3-6 months sometimes. That is difficult for people to wrap their minds around. My retirement accounts generate triple my highest salary most years now and it is all good.\n My one mistake in planning for early retirement was not having a bigger taxable brokerage. I like that account the best currently because I can do what I want with the money and not have to worry about tax implications etc." }, { "id": "t1_opecz1r", "author": "/u/WhirlyDurvy", "updated": "2026-06-02T21:37:34+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tv39ds/what_to_say/opecz1r/", "content": "Yeah I think you can just say that you've run your numbers and you want to focus on basket weaving or whatever." }, { "id": "t1_opefekg", "author": "/u/shotparrot", "updated": "2026-06-02T21:49:40+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tv39ds/what_to_say/opefekg/", "content": "😂😂 Or javelin throwing in my case." }, { "id": "t1_opedc9j", "author": "/u/procrasstinating", "updated": "2026-06-02T21:39:23+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tv39ds/what_to_say/opedc9j/", "content": "Taking a sabbatical seems easier to digest for people when you are younger than the normal retirement age. Then you can start working on consulting or coaching." }, { "id": "t1_opef9kh", "author": "/u/shotparrot", "updated": "2026-06-02T21:48:57+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tv39ds/what_to_say/opef9kh/", "content": "Oooo I like that. Thanks" }, { "id": "t1_opewjw9", "author": "/u/paq12x", "updated": "2026-06-02T23:19:28+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tv39ds/what_to_say/opewjw9/", "content": "If you talk to your boomer friends: I am taking a sabbatical leave.\n If you talk to Gen Z: I am taking a few gap years to find myself." }, { "id": "t1_opf1ruw", "author": "/u/Ungl8r", "updated": "2026-06-02T23:48:28+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tv39ds/what_to_say/opf1ruw/", "content": "Good words!" }, { "id": "t1_ope4exk", "author": "/u/SmolderingCactus", "updated": "2026-06-02T20:56:17+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tv39ds/what_to_say/ope4exk/", "content": "Just say you don’t feel like working anymore" }, { "id": "t1_ope571x", "author": "/u/hadee75", "updated": "2026-06-02T20:59:56+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tv39ds/what_to_say/ope571x/", "content": "Tell them you fired yourself." }, { "id": "t1_ope5zst", "author": "/u/Hot-Slide-8285", "updated": "2026-06-02T21:03:42+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tv39ds/what_to_say/ope5zst/", "content": "I will never understand why people seem so afraid to say 'I'm retired' ?\n or.\n "I saved all my life to retire as early as possible , & that's what I did"\n or\n "I was lucky enough to save enough to retire as soon as I could"\n or\n " I saved enough so that I never have to work again"\n or once again\n "I'm retired"\n People seem to always ask what to say and it confounds me that they don't understand that there's no law against being retired." }, { "id": "t1_opg8pzx", "author": "/u/Ibuilds", "updated": "2026-06-03T04:02:16+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tv39ds/what_to_say/opg8pzx/", "content": "We want to know what to tell people that isn't lying and won't generate more follow up questions. Sometimes the comments have good responses" }, { "id": "t1_ope62db", "author": "/u/WakeRider11", "updated": "2026-06-02T21:04:03+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tv39ds/what_to_say/ope62db/", "content": "I retired a little over a year ago at age 53. When I tell people I’m retired, they just say congratulations. Most know I was self employed and sold my business, so they probably assume that’s why I can retire, but in reality, I had enough before the sale. Either way, it just doesn’t come up and I don’t care what people may or may not be thinking. By the way, I’m a very active and maybe a young looking 54 year old now so age does come up. I still ride and race mountain bikes and do other active stuff." }, { "id": "t1_ope6vly", "author": "/u/Witty-Drama-3187", "updated": "2026-06-02T21:07:59+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tv39ds/what_to_say/ope6vly/", "content": "Don’t really need to say much. “We were good savers and planned for this for a while” is probably enough." }, { "id": "t1_ope8e77", "author": "/u/Wide_Conversation_23", "updated": "2026-06-02T21:15:15+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tv39ds/what_to_say/ope8e77/", "content": "When I fire, I am planning to say that I switched to freelancing and working remotelly from home. This hopefully will help to avoid such conversations" }, { "id": "t1_ophfjj7", "author": "/u/LongjumpingNorth8500", "updated": "2026-06-03T09:47:04+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tv39ds/what_to_say/ophfjj7/", "content": "This also will give you a great "out" when people think you have time to do things for them since you "have time" because you work from home. "Sorry I have a video call I need to take this afternoon. Could turn into a great opportunity so I can't miss it."" }, { "id": "t1_opegfv3", "author": "/u/Nomijenn", "updated": "2026-06-02T21:54:50+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tv39ds/what_to_say/opegfv3/", "content": "I quit so I could start a band." }, { "id": "t1_oph27tg", "author": "/u/jerolyoleo", "updated": "2026-06-03T07:50:48+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tv39ds/what_to_say/oph27tg/", "content": "“I’ve taken a position in portfolio management. I’m able to do it from home.”" }, { "id": "t1_opdzt3s", "author": "/u/mrmses", "updated": "2026-06-02T20:35:00+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tv39ds/what_to_say/opdzt3s/", "content": "Just smile coyly and ask them about the Bears.\n be sure to practice your coy smile." }, { "id": "t1_ope2vhx", "author": "/u/NecessaryEmployer488", "updated": "2026-06-02T20:49:09+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tv39ds/what_to_say/ope2vhx/", "content": "I would say money wise we looked at our investments and think we can swing retirement. If not, we will adjust, we are good for now. The issue with finances your good with retirement until enough things go South and you need to adjust." }, { "id": "t1_ope55eg", "author": "/u/dreamkanteen", "updated": "2026-06-02T20:59:43+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tv39ds/what_to_say/ope55eg/", "content": ""I worked my ass off over the years and saved enough money to allow me to take my foot off the gas. Im fortunate enough to have a good pension"\n I would personally start some sort of side hustle, like a booth at the farmers market or give music lessons. You can just exaggerate that a bit plus starting a little business could be fun." }, { "id": "t1_ope5z8m", "author": "/u/Dino_Sore98", "updated": "2026-06-02T21:03:38+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tv39ds/what_to_say/ope5z8m/", "content": "I retired from the corporate rat race at 56. The younger co-workers came into my office to congratulate me and to say they also hoped to retire early. The co-workers who were around my age came into my office with concerned looks on their faces and wanted to know "if everything was okay." I think they all assumed I was getting fired or had a terminal illness.\n When people pried about why I retired, I just told them that most of the men in my family dropped dead in their 40s and 50s and I didn't want to die at my desk. (That is somewhat true). This usually got people to change the subject.\n Or, more simply, I just tell people that work is overrated." }, { "id": "t1_ope6014", "author": "/u/scrunchie_one", "updated": "2026-06-02T21:03:44+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tv39ds/what_to_say/ope6014/", "content": "“We’ve saved enough to retire” is all you need to say. If they ask more questions then be as honest as you’re comfortable being. Don’t worry about upsetting people, you didn’t do anything wrong." }, { "id": "t1_ope6mzu", "author": "/u/alefeusch", "updated": "2026-06-02T21:06:48+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tv39ds/what_to_say/ope6mzu/", "content": "Oddly, I don't get much of this maybe because I was more toward the extreme end of young retirees when I retired and everyone knew I'd owned my company and sold it so there wasn't much to ask. But, if I were you, I'd just say 'yeah we're fine" and leave it at that and not worry about what they think. Does it really matter?" }, { "id": "t1_ope8lz1", "author": "/u/2FeedRss", "updated": "2026-06-02T21:16:18+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tv39ds/what_to_say/ope8lz1/", "content": "What…you haven’t introduced FIRE to your siblings?" }, { "id": "t1_ope90nf", "author": "/u/Then_Entertainment97", "updated": "2026-06-02T21:18:17+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tv39ds/what_to_say/ope90nf/", "content": "No reason to bring up $4M." }, { "id": "t1_opea793", "author": "/u/Cheap_Office8701", "updated": "2026-06-02T21:23:57+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tv39ds/what_to_say/opea793/", "content": "Bitcoin" }, { "id": "t1_opecmwy", "author": "/u/tombiowami", "updated": "2026-06-02T21:35:54+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tv39ds/what_to_say/opecmwy/", "content": "Way overthinking…they don’t really care. You saved money, and now live off of it. Next subject." }, { "id": "t1_opedw33", "author": "/u/tjg-reddit", "updated": "2026-06-02T21:42:06+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tv39ds/what_to_say/opedw33/", "content": "Maybe OP and everyone else who asks are a bit insecure about their decision to RE. Perhaps they look for some positive reinforcement from the crowd. Surely we’d all find a way to steer the conversation in a given situation." }, { "id": "t1_opedyxs", "author": "/u/Feisty-Hat2629", "updated": "2026-06-02T21:42:29+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tv39ds/what_to_say/opedyxs/", "content": "So you assumed the neighbor was thinking that you retiring at 56 was due to illness or you getting fired. Maybe he was thinking good for you. You must have managed your finances well to be able to retire early. It could have been as simple as that. But these threads constantly posting angst about how do I tell them it’s because my net worth is so and so etcetera etcetera. As others have said are nothing more than bragging and a bit boring. Yeah, I know. I can just keep scrolling." }, { "id": "t1_opg526h", "author": "/u/Ra_a_", "updated": "2026-06-03T03:37:57+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tv39ds/what_to_say/opg526h/", "content": "I think they’re all fake posts\n People get to retirement and all of a sudden forget how to speak? Or listen? Makes no sense\n Fake posts" }, { "id": "t1_opeeqlk", "author": "/u/No_Routine2905", "updated": "2026-06-02T21:46:19+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tv39ds/what_to_say/opeeqlk/", "content": ""Shifting into consulting work"" }, { "id": "t1_opef54r", "author": "/u/shotparrot", "updated": "2026-06-02T21:48:20+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tv39ds/what_to_say/opef54r/", "content": "Look up this question in the Fire sub.\n “I won the lottery (of good financial planning at an early age)!!!" }, { "id": "t1_opefew4", "author": "/u/DistributionEven9393", "updated": "2026-06-02T21:49:42+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tv39ds/what_to_say/opefew4/", "content": "Everyone will have their opinion…but you can give an honest answer without being too specific.\n You worked hard at your career, saved money, and retired.\n There’s nothing arrogant, unusual, or condescending in a response of a 56 year old stating that." }, { "id": "t1_opefj2r", "author": "/u/Nomijenn", "updated": "2026-06-02T21:50:18+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tv39ds/what_to_say/opefj2r/", "content": "If you own and manage your own rental properties, you could say you’re a real estate investor." }, { "id": "t1_opefy67", "author": "/u/Bearsbanker", "updated": "2026-06-02T21:52:23+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tv39ds/what_to_say/opefy67/", "content": "I don't lie, I tell them I'm retired. Why would you care what other people think? Unfortunately soon we'll look/be standard retirement age...boo" }, { "id": "t1_opel4zx", "author": "/u/sznn0", "updated": "2026-06-02T22:19:03+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tv39ds/what_to_say/opel4zx/", "content": "Just say ‘we’re comfortable as long as we make smart decisions’ and leave it as that. Or you can say ‘we’ve got some runway to be picky in our next role’ which implies you are still looking, and then eventually say you couldn’t find anything." }, { "id": "t1_opelf4v", "author": "/u/tulip1838", "updated": "2026-06-02T22:20:27+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tv39ds/what_to_say/opelf4v/", "content": "Sounds like you’re just making assumptions about what they were really thinking. Stop assuming, and if it turned out you were correct who cares? If you really feel compelled to say something it’s your issue.\n Note: I retired a few months back @50 so I get the odd need to explain yourself, but am learning quickly to stop caring what others may or may not think." }, { "id": "t1_opemf5y", "author": "/u/K_A_irony", "updated": "2026-06-02T22:25:32+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tv39ds/what_to_say/opemf5y/", "content": ""We managed to make the math work." Then just move on from the conversation. This implies you are OK but hints at it took some budget juggling so they don't think you are dripping in money." }, { "id": "t1_opetsrq", "author": "/u/SignificantFail3632", "updated": "2026-06-02T23:04:32+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tv39ds/what_to_say/opetsrq/", "content": "Tell them your favorite hobby is aggressively staring at spreadsheets instead of buying things. It’s the truth anyway" }, { "id": "t1_opeufga", "author": "/u/Intelligent_Lead7724", "updated": "2026-06-02T23:07:57+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tv39ds/what_to_say/opeufga/", "content": "'Just between jobs'" }, { "id": "t1_opew116", "author": "/u/chodthewacko", "updated": "2026-06-02T23:16:34+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tv39ds/what_to_say/opew116/", "content": "I'm not yet, I would rather not say I'm not working.\n If it did leak out, I'd either say I cut my hours down, or just say I was taking a break from work for a bit. If they ask how long, I'd just say, 'not sure, depends' and shrug.\n It's not technically lying either." }, { "id": "t1_opf3osz", "author": "/u/Ungl8r", "updated": "2026-06-02T23:59:11+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tv39ds/what_to_say/opf3osz/", "content": "Tbh, I don’t care what people think, and in fact, I’d like more people to consider the possibility of RE. I simply say ‘I chucked in my job and sold out of my business; I’m effectively retired and just do a little bit of work for interest sake.’" }, { "id": "t1_opf72j6", "author": "/u/Accomplished_Way8964", "updated": "2026-06-03T00:18:13+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tv39ds/what_to_say/opf72j6/", "content": "On Seinfeld, Kramer would deflect with a simple "Oh, I get by" without going into further detail.\n In real life I'm sure it's different, but maybe it doesn't have to be. Having a few stock answers that are vague, but reassuring might do the trick." }, { "id": "t1_opf7lbb", "author": "/u/Cornish_spex", "updated": "2026-06-03T00:21:10+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tv39ds/what_to_say/opf7lbb/", "content": "I feel like at 57 it’s not that early . You’re just retired or “consulting” .. health problems .. whatever it’s fine you’re not working. Why do people even notice or care. Maybe stop bringing it up?" }, { "id": "t1_opf7t5h", "author": "/u/buy_sell_hope", "updated": "2026-06-03T00:22:24+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tv39ds/what_to_say/opf7t5h/", "content": "All depends what you plan to spend" }, { "id": "t1_opf8ewy", "author": "/u/Ok_Location7161", "updated": "2026-06-03T00:25:44+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tv39ds/what_to_say/opf8ewy/", "content": ""Neighbor when I told him im retired" - why peplle yapping on every corner?" }, { "id": "t1_opfp1m1", "author": "/u/mi3chaels", "updated": "2026-06-03T02:00:24+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tv39ds/what_to_say/opfp1m1/", "content": ""We've been planning and saving for a long time, and were able to retire now." Nobody needs to know how much money you have, and "retired" means you don't need to work, not that you are destitute.\n 56 is younger than the average, but it's hardly unheard of to retire in your 50s." }, { "id": "t1_opfp7q7", "author": "/u/fire_neophyte", "updated": "2026-06-03T02:01:22+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tv39ds/what_to_say/opfp7q7/", "content": "Sounds like you kind of already let the cat out of the bag, but personally I don't plan on telling anyone. If they really press I'll just tell them I'm consulting or my work schedule got a lot more flexible. Why do they even need to know? Especially with potentially jealous family members I can't imagine that leading to anything other than problems." }, { "id": "t1_opfte0i", "author": "/u/Aquitaine_Rover_3876", "updated": "2026-06-03T02:25:22+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tv39ds/what_to_say/opfte0i/", "content": ""Retirement age is whenever you're ready for retirement."\n Seems like a weird question. Aside from a small number of jobs with legally mandated maximum retirement ages, I don't know what "retirement age" is supposed to mean. Then there's some coworkers I have well into their 70s - I can't know their networth, but do know they earn in the low 7-figures - who seem constitutionally incapable of actually retiring." }, { "id": "t1_opg00dk", "author": "/u/bhillis99", "updated": "2026-06-03T03:05:03+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tv39ds/what_to_say/opg00dk/", "content": "when I hint to others about early retirement, it blows their minds. Its like they dont get it. I worked with a lady that just retired. she could have easily retired at 55, but waited until 65 because she was scared to death of paying health insurance." }, { "id": "t1_opg4gmp", "author": "/u/Ra_a_", "updated": "2026-06-03T03:33:57+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tv39ds/what_to_say/opg4gmp/", "content": "It’s sounds like they’re just asking questions and you’re just answering them already" }, { "id": "t1_opgdxlk", "author": "/u/Salt-Detective1337", "updated": "2026-06-03T04:38:40+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tv39ds/what_to_say/opgdxlk/", "content": "Just buy a monocle. When someone asks, pull it out of your pocket and put it on. If they want further explanation just tell them "The westward expansion has been exceedingly profitable."" }, { "id": "t1_opgqvw7", "author": "/u/Banned3rdTimesaCharm", "updated": "2026-06-03T06:16:40+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tv39ds/what_to_say/opgqvw7/", "content": "Why do you need to tell anyone anything? Just tell them you work from home or something." }, { "id": "t1_oph9dht", "author": "/u/d0321", "updated": "2026-06-03T08:53:46+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tv39ds/what_to_say/oph9dht/", "content": "Just say retirement is not an age problem, it’s a math problem - and I’m good at math." }, { "id": "t1_ophd70e", "author": "/u/LongjumpingNorth8500", "updated": "2026-06-03T09:27:10+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tv39ds/what_to_say/ophd70e/", "content": "Why do you feel the need to say you're retired instead of being simply unemployed? Not actively looking for another job, and living off of savings unless something that feels really good to you comes along, wouldn't be a bad follow up if they are worried about your ability to "get by"." }, { "id": "t1_ophedp0", "author": "/u/LongjumpingNorth8500", "updated": "2026-06-03T09:37:21+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tv39ds/what_to_say/ophedp0/", "content": "It's like this. When everybody else was screaming "scammers" and locking down their credit, bank accounts, and social security numbers, when they got the emails from that princess in Nigeria, I was arranging for them to send the 350 million to my accounts so we could split it upon their arrival. Let me just say it was worth the price of that 1st class ticket!!" }, { "id": "t1_ope7yg9", "author": "/u/igobyplane_com", "updated": "2026-06-02T21:13:09+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tv39ds/what_to_say/ope7yg9/", "content": "tell them you're an asset manager now" }, { "id": "t1_ope9gh0", "author": "/u/ameans47", "updated": "2026-06-02T21:20:22+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tv39ds/what_to_say/ope9gh0/", "content": "Is everyone posting in this sub autistic? Just make small talk." }, { "id": "t1_ope9ub7", "author": "/u/stout933", "updated": "2026-06-02T21:22:13+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tv39ds/what_to_say/ope9ub7/", "content": "So someone asks you about your retirement and you start talking about the weather?? That seems even more autistic.." }, { "id": "t1_opefvqn", "author": "/u/shotparrot", "updated": "2026-06-02T21:52:03+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tv39ds/what_to_say/opefvqn/", "content": "I would talk about sub marines." }, { "id": "t1_opeg2rr", "author": "/u/ameans47", "updated": "2026-06-02T21:53:02+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tv39ds/what_to_say/opeg2rr/", "content": "lol no, small talk doesn’t mean randomly change the subject. You can just say you were able to save a decent amount throughout the years. And if they pry say you got lucky with some previous investments. You don’t have to share your investment thesis or 10 year plan. Obviously you can if you want to but don’t feel obligated to." }, { "id": "t1_opeb85s", "author": "/u/plawwell", "updated": "2026-06-02T21:28:57+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tv39ds/what_to_say/opeb85s/", "content": "Money talk does things to people and it can turn them into crazies if you have exposure to an unbalanced individual. I wouldn't tell anybody my business as I don't want them pointing a gun at me out of desperation. It can go south real fast IMO." }, { "id": "t1_opefo0i", "author": "/u/shotparrot", "updated": "2026-06-02T21:50:58+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tv39ds/what_to_say/opefo0i/", "content": "What kind of people do hang out with???" }, { "id": "t1_opebeci", "author": "/u/Libertae-Fire", "updated": "2026-06-02T21:29:47+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tv39ds/what_to_say/opebeci/", "content": "Hi and welcome to the part nobody warns you about 😅\n The trick is to be boring enough that they stop asking. Try “I’m doing some consulting work and taking it easy.”\n And congrats btw 🥳" }, { "id": "t1_ope4w0h", "author": "/u/HairyBushies", "updated": "2026-06-02T20:58:30+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tv39ds/what_to_say/ope4w0h/", "content": "You know it’s been brought up before and yet you bring it up again?\n Why not just search the previous ad nauseum posts on this topic for ideas and call it a day? You’re just adding to the problem.\n Honestly, I will never understand the need to seek the approvals of others when you clearly don’t need to. It defeats the purpose of FU money is you can’t say it or to say nothing because you don’t have to justify anything to anyone." }, { "id": "t1_ope5ber", "author": "/u/stout933", "updated": "2026-06-02T21:00:29+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tv39ds/what_to_say/ope5ber/", "content": "And yet you still spend time responding to it...." }, { "id": "t1_opec3vi", "author": "/u/HairyBushies", "updated": "2026-06-02T21:33:18+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tv39ds/what_to_say/opec3vi/", "content": "Part of the problem these days is that we’ve stopped ridiculing the ridiculous and people have stopped learning, so just view as me doing my bit." } ] }, { "source": "r/Fire hot", "id": "t3_1tumyjr", "title": "More than half of Americans are not financially literate", "author": "/u/Available-Ad-5670", "updated": "2026-06-02T10:32:40+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tumyjr/more_than_half_of_americans_are_not_financially/", "content": "https://www.yahoo.com/finance/economy/articles/more-half-americans-not-financially-152815405.html\n Sometimes i thank the lord i found fire. i feel like everyone is financially literate, but its actually getting worse for most americans\n submitted by /u/Available-Ad-5670\n [link] [comments]", "contentHtml": "

https://www.yahoo.com/finance/economy/articles/more-half-americans-not-financially-152815405.html

Sometimes i thank the lord i found fire. i feel like everyone is financially literate, but its actually getting worse for most americans

submitted by /u/Available-Ad-5670
[link] [comments]", "comments": [ { "id": "t1_opakwac", "author": "/u/EqualSein", "updated": "2026-06-02T10:45:41+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tumyjr/more_than_half_of_americans_are_not_financially/opakwac/", "content": "Their financial illiteracy also contributes to our wealth in the form of things like credit card sign up bonuses, 0% interest rates, low expense ratios, etc." }, { "id": "t1_opau89h", "author": "/u/Wild_Butterscotch482", "updated": "2026-06-02T11:47:39+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tumyjr/more_than_half_of_americans_are_not_financially/opau89h/", "content": "We seriously underrate the importance of financial illiteracy in the supporting lifestyles and economy for those who can manage and maintain wealth.\n Every sector of our economy is bolstered by interest charges, late fees, and irresponsible purchasing. Even our public utilities rates would be higher without these revenue centers. My entire career in luxury retail design would be over if not for impulsive spending on credit. I almost feel guilty about my retail psychology + design skillset." }, { "id": "t1_opaylw7", "author": "/u/guzzijason", "updated": "2026-06-02T12:13:37+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tumyjr/more_than_half_of_americans_are_not_financially/opaylw7/", "content": "Those fees and high interest are essentially a poverty tax. It can be expensive to be poor." }, { "id": "t1_opbnjkn", "author": "/u/ImPapaNoff", "updated": "2026-06-02T14:20:59+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tumyjr/more_than_half_of_americans_are_not_financially/opbnjkn/", "content": "It's sad that poor is synonymous with financially illiterate." }, { "id": "t1_opbp8s6", "author": "/u/guzzijason", "updated": "2026-06-02T14:28:48+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tumyjr/more_than_half_of_americans_are_not_financially/opbp8s6/", "content": "Its not 1:1, but I'm sure the Venn diagram of the two populations significantly overlaps." }, { "id": "t1_opcc528", "author": "/u/boringexplanation", "updated": "2026-06-02T16:10:35+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tumyjr/more_than_half_of_americans_are_not_financially/opcc528/", "content": "It’s an American poor thing. Everytime the rest of Reddit justifies their lack of frugal grocery shopping, it’s either “these hard working people shouldn’t have to worry about cooking” or “it’s not their fault they live 10 miles away from a store.”\n I lived in a close knit neighborhood of immigrants. Nobody made these stupid ass Reddit excuses" }, { "id": "t1_opcduxu", "author": "/u/Number127", "updated": "2026-06-02T16:18:06+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tumyjr/more_than_half_of_americans_are_not_financially/opcduxu/", "content": ""Close knit neighborhood" is the key point here. If you have a community that supports each other, it can definitely relieve a lot of that burden." }, { "id": "t1_opeij2u", "author": "/u/boringexplanation", "updated": "2026-06-02T22:05:30+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tumyjr/more_than_half_of_americans_are_not_financially/opeij2u/", "content": "Yes and no. It’s not like my neighbors cooked or shopped for me every week. I have hosted block parties and overspent on food- all while working 60 hour weeks on a $40k salary. I only mentioned close knit as to say that’s how I know these people aren’t overgrown children who can’t cook for themselves.\n Most of the time, I got less out of them than what I put out but that’s just how community goes." }, { "id": "t1_opcw705", "author": "/u/aronnax512", "updated": "2026-06-02T17:37:51+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tumyjr/more_than_half_of_americans_are_not_financially/opcw705/", "content": "Also synonymous with actually illiterate. Over half of Americans read at or below a 6th grade level." }, { "id": "t1_ope4bvk", "author": "/u/Responsible_Sea78", "updated": "2026-06-02T20:55:53+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tumyjr/more_than_half_of_americans_are_not_financially/ope4bvk/", "content": "Half of American men have not read ONE book in the previous year." }, { "id": "t1_opg3hfu", "author": "/u/CenlaLowell", "updated": "2026-06-03T03:27:31+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tumyjr/more_than_half_of_americans_are_not_financially/opg3hfu/", "content": "It's crazy because all of the information is free on the Internet, but their to busy watching bullshit." }, { "id": "t1_opb5ulf", "author": "/u/SquirrelStone", "updated": "2026-06-02T12:53:46+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tumyjr/more_than_half_of_americans_are_not_financially/opb5ulf/", "content": "I look at the credit card accounts at work and it’s just painful how much we spend in late fees and interest charges each month. I’m over here trying to get spending under control and the biggest thing I can find is for us to just pay for shit on time." }, { "id": "t1_opd71ku", "author": "/u/No_Iron_9220", "updated": "2026-06-02T18:24:48+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tumyjr/more_than_half_of_americans_are_not_financially/opd71ku/", "content": "Your workplace can't manage to pay it's own credit cards on time?" }, { "id": "t1_opbstlf", "author": "/u/Deep-Owl-1044", "updated": "2026-06-02T14:45:13+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tumyjr/more_than_half_of_americans_are_not_financially/opbstlf/", "content": "Or use cash." }, { "id": "t1_opeo2rx", "author": "/u/Comfortable_Line_206", "updated": "2026-06-02T22:34:07+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tumyjr/more_than_half_of_americans_are_not_financially/opeo2rx/", "content": "Use credit for rewards and score. Treat it like a debit card. Pay off every month." }, { "id": "t1_opbg3ht", "author": "/u/Successful_Abies1107", "updated": "2026-06-02T13:45:25+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tumyjr/more_than_half_of_americans_are_not_financially/opbg3ht/", "content": "Also advertising. We get to have access to most websites for free because those people are bad enough with money that all those ads are profitable." }, { "id": "t1_opbngrn", "author": "/u/Strazdas1", "updated": "2026-06-02T14:20:38+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tumyjr/more_than_half_of_americans_are_not_financially/opbngrn/", "content": "Advertisement is insidious though. As in i think its actually dangerous to society how prevalent it has become. Modern advertisement is all about how to hijack your instincts to mindfuck you into consumerism." }, { "id": "t1_opd491b", "author": "/u/terjon", "updated": "2026-06-02T18:12:36+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tumyjr/more_than_half_of_americans_are_not_financially/opd491b/", "content": "It is dangerous to society, but is it dangerous to you?\n You can show me 1000 ads for cars, but unless my car is broken and it would cost more to fix than it is worth, I'm not buying a new car, regardless of how cool their commercial is." }, { "id": "t1_ope9caf", "author": "/u/CryptoCel", "updated": "2026-06-02T21:19:49+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tumyjr/more_than_half_of_americans_are_not_financially/ope9caf/", "content": "Depends on the severity of externalities. You can show me thousands of Kalshi and Polymarket ads and it won’t make a difference for me, might even lead to lower sporting ticket prices.\n But fast forward a few years and the poverty rate among 18-30 young men sky rockets in my local area and now it is a potential problem for me." }, { "id": "t1_opf0187", "author": "/u/dsrmpt", "updated": "2026-06-02T23:38:39+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tumyjr/more_than_half_of_americans_are_not_financially/opf0187/", "content": "I'm not gonna buy a car, unless I'm on the margin. Do I repair it? Do I sell it and get a new one? See thousands of ads, maybe I'll buy. 🎶See the USA in your Chevrolet!🎶\n And maybe I'll spend a little more money when I'm at it. I need a nice Chevrolet when I am seeing the USA, so I'll get the fancy radio and the good seats. Maybe I'll buy new instead of used because of the good lane keeping assist.\n Ads tweak behavior, they don't lead to 180s." }, { "id": "t1_opfir2d", "author": "/u/flukus", "updated": "2026-06-03T01:24:19+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tumyjr/more_than_half_of_americans_are_not_financially/opfir2d/", "content": "It is dangerous to society, but is it dangerous to you?\n I don't live in a bubble." }, { "id": "t1_ophh2t5", "author": "/u/Strazdas1", "updated": "2026-06-03T09:59:28+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tumyjr/more_than_half_of_americans_are_not_financially/ophh2t5/", "content": "Yes. It is dangerous to everyone. It is in fact more dangerous to people who think are unaffected. Their defences are down." }, { "id": "t1_ope3wyj", "author": "/u/Responsible_Sea78", "updated": "2026-06-02T20:53:57+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tumyjr/more_than_half_of_americans_are_not_financially/ope3wyj/", "content": "I give myself a monthly audit of what I spend due to advertising. Usually very little; mostly getting a deal on stuff i use anyhow." }, { "id": "t1_ophidix", "author": "/u/Strazdas1", "updated": "2026-06-03T10:09:38+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tumyjr/more_than_half_of_americans_are_not_financially/ophidix/", "content": "You have no clue what you spent on advertisement because you do not take stock of what subconscious decisions it has affected." }, { "id": "t1_opddwik", "author": "/u/the-silver-tuna", "updated": "2026-06-02T18:55:02+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tumyjr/more_than_half_of_americans_are_not_financially/opddwik/", "content": "Sounds like gullibility is what is dangerous to society" }, { "id": "t1_ophhryy", "author": "/u/Strazdas1", "updated": "2026-06-03T10:04:58+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tumyjr/more_than_half_of_americans_are_not_financially/ophhryy/", "content": "Its not gullibility. Any well designed ad is a psychological attack on you. They abuse your natural instincts." }, { "id": "t1_opc3vdp", "author": "/u/6411644334", "updated": "2026-06-02T15:34:28+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tumyjr/more_than_half_of_americans_are_not_financially/opc3vdp/", "content": "Not to mention cheap labor." }, { "id": "t1_opck1sx", "author": "/u/new_cock_in_town", "updated": "2026-06-02T16:45:11+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tumyjr/more_than_half_of_americans_are_not_financially/opck1sx/", "content": "Who are you to decide what's important for somebody? If you would offer the alternative most would still not take it" }, { "id": "t1_opan014", "author": "/u/Few-Improvement9978", "updated": "2026-06-02T11:00:21+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tumyjr/more_than_half_of_americans_are_not_financially/opan014/", "content": "The CC bonuses almost feel like robbery.\n I have traveled dozens of times in long haul business purely because people are idiots and pay outrageous interest fees." }, { "id": "t1_opasrhk", "author": "/u/Montaigne_6823", "updated": "2026-06-02T11:38:33+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tumyjr/more_than_half_of_americans_are_not_financially/opasrhk/", "content": "We also pay for it ourselves. They have a monopoly on the transaction fees and then give us a fraction back as airline points. Individually it makes sense, but when all of us do it it's just the CC companies fleecing us all.\n I still do it." }, { "id": "t1_opayet7", "author": "/u/ludi567", "updated": "2026-06-02T12:12:29+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tumyjr/more_than_half_of_americans_are_not_financially/opayet7/", "content": "Yeh I think that’s often overlooked. I see it with a lot of Americans moving to Europe asking why credit card benefits are so shit in Europe. And the simple answer is: because credit card companies aren’t able to charge the same transaction fees to merchants (who ultimately pass it on to the consumer)." }, { "id": "t1_opbnxtu", "author": "/u/Strazdas1", "updated": "2026-06-02T14:22:50+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tumyjr/more_than_half_of_americans_are_not_financially/opbnxtu/", "content": "Fun fact: Mastercard started as european payment processor called Eurocard then it got sold to americans. We made sure we are dependant on american card processors so now we get fucked both ways. But hey at least we are not Japan, where american VISA branch can decide what Japanese VISA branch is allowed to process, banning payment processing for any services not to american sensibilities." }, { "id": "t1_opesdzx", "author": "/u/berryer", "updated": "2026-06-02T22:56:57+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tumyjr/more_than_half_of_americans_are_not_financially/opesdzx/", "content": "Places are getting better about charging transaction fees to the card-users, since recent court cases protected merchants from card-networks' prohibitions on that. Still a long way to go, though." }, { "id": "t1_opb363x", "author": "/u/jeffeb3", "updated": "2026-06-02T12:39:20+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tumyjr/more_than_half_of_americans_are_not_financially/opb363x/", "content": "Thise are paid by the merchant. The merchant is willing to pay them because they want your business and you spend more when you use a credit card (especially one with good benefits)." }, { "id": "t1_opb9j1d", "author": "/u/First0fOne", "updated": "2026-06-02T13:12:49+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tumyjr/more_than_half_of_americans_are_not_financially/opb9j1d/", "content": "Who in turn raises prices by 3 to 4%. So yes we are paying for them." }, { "id": "t1_opd2e6z", "author": "/u/jeffeb3", "updated": "2026-06-02T18:04:33+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tumyjr/more_than_half_of_americans_are_not_financially/opd2e6z/", "content": "My point was that they aren't paid for by late fees or interest. That money goes to the underwriting banks, not the rewards." }, { "id": "t1_opbo430", "author": "/u/Strazdas1", "updated": "2026-06-02T14:23:37+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tumyjr/more_than_half_of_americans_are_not_financially/opbo430/", "content": "Merchants here sometimes give you discounts if you pay in cash, because they can avoid those transaction fees." }, { "id": "t1_opccnub", "author": "/u/boringexplanation", "updated": "2026-06-02T16:12:51+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tumyjr/more_than_half_of_americans_are_not_financially/opccnub/", "content": "Which is against terms and conditions of every merchant services provider." }, { "id": "t1_opcez0o", "author": "/u/EqualSein", "updated": "2026-06-02T16:22:59+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tumyjr/more_than_half_of_americans_are_not_financially/opcez0o/", "content": "The details are state specific but it's usually fine to do a "cash discount" but not a "credit card surcharge" despite them being the same thing." }, { "id": "t1_opcm396", "author": "/u/ExcellentCup6793", "updated": "2026-06-02T16:54:03+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tumyjr/more_than_half_of_americans_are_not_financially/opcm396/", "content": "Florida had a ban on credit card surcharges but then it was deemed unconstitutional federally. My subaru dealership has a sign up front they tack on 3% for service unless you pay by check or debit card." }, { "id": "t1_ope5bcl", "author": "/u/Responsible_Sea78", "updated": "2026-06-02T21:00:29+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tumyjr/more_than_half_of_americans_are_not_financially/ope5bcl/", "content": "How dare you be arithmetically literate." }, { "id": "t1_ophgd1p", "author": "/u/Strazdas1", "updated": "2026-06-03T09:53:45+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tumyjr/more_than_half_of_americans_are_not_financially/ophgd1p/", "content": "well, i dont know what contracts they have, i just know some merchants give this discount." }, { "id": "t1_opbv97g", "author": "/u/Zee_WeeWee", "updated": "2026-06-02T14:56:16+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tumyjr/more_than_half_of_americans_are_not_financially/opbv97g/", "content": "Thise are paid by the merchant.\n Most vendors in NC have passed that 3% to the customer as of recent" }, { "id": "t1_opbfmmc", "author": "/u/deerhuntingdude", "updated": "2026-06-02T13:43:08+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tumyjr/more_than_half_of_americans_are_not_financially/opbfmmc/", "content": "I'm literally sitting on my 5 free nights from Marriott because I genuinely don't know what to do with them lol" }, { "id": "t1_opbop6b", "author": "/u/Few-Improvement9978", "updated": "2026-06-02T14:26:18+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tumyjr/more_than_half_of_americans_are_not_financially/opbop6b/", "content": "The Bali Ritz is pretty sick and normally FNCs work there" }, { "id": "t1_opc2dil", "author": "/u/fratticus_maximus", "updated": "2026-06-02T15:27:58+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tumyjr/more_than_half_of_americans_are_not_financially/opc2dil/", "content": "I've used them for the all inclusives in Cancun and Costa Rica. My girlfriend and I both get to go. We go crazy on eating and drinking for a few days. It's pretty nice." }, { "id": "t1_opbfoeb", "author": "/u/MemeSaber_12", "updated": "2026-06-02T13:43:22+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tumyjr/more_than_half_of_americans_are_not_financially/opbfoeb/", "content": "That’s the uncomfortable part. A lot of the perks financially literate people use are funded by people who don’t understand interest, fees, or how fast bad debt snowballs. It’s useful to know, but it also makes the whole system feel pretty predatory" }, { "id": "t1_opczta3", "author": "/u/BlackCardRogue", "updated": "2026-06-02T17:53:23+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tumyjr/more_than_half_of_americans_are_not_financially/opczta3/", "content": "Idk man it’s like Tom Brady says in the commercials. When the safety goes away, rip the seam — it’s not that hard\n Basic math is not that hard…" }, { "id": "t1_opdrild", "author": "/u/b0bsquad", "updated": "2026-06-02T19:56:57+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tumyjr/more_than_half_of_americans_are_not_financially/opdrild/", "content": "I always struggle when I think that so many issues would be solved if everyone was frugal. Then I remember that if everyone was frugal my investment portfolio would not be doing well." }, { "id": "t1_ope50oq", "author": "/u/Commercial-Safety635", "updated": "2026-06-02T20:59:06+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tumyjr/more_than_half_of_americans_are_not_financially/ope50oq/", "content": "Many in this thread are taking a myopic view of macro economics. We would all be better off if every adult citizen understood financial literacy. A rising tide lifts all boats." }, { "id": "t1_opb53tr", "author": "/u/Clayskii0981", "updated": "2026-06-02T12:49:48+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tumyjr/more_than_half_of_americans_are_not_financially/opb53tr/", "content": "The Robhood Gold Card 3% is held up by a ridiculous amount of options to throw the points away." }, { "id": "t1_opcafr9", "author": "/u/Lhasa-bark", "updated": "2026-06-02T16:03:09+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tumyjr/more_than_half_of_americans_are_not_financially/opcafr9/", "content": "Or those ads where a woman looks at her phone, excitedly yells “real cash betting is legal now!”, and everyone around her starts celebrating and gambling on their phones. Well, at least it contributes to our wealth if we’re running those gambling apps. (Edit: I’m in FL; those ads may be a local thing)" }, { "id": "t1_opdnxhf", "author": "/u/Dead_Sparrow-21", "updated": "2026-06-02T19:40:32+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tumyjr/more_than_half_of_americans_are_not_financially/opdnxhf/", "content": "Bro said the proletariat keeps the bourgeoisie wealthy 😭🤣" }, { "id": "t1_opfcstg", "author": "/u/railroad-dreams", "updated": "2026-06-03T00:50:35+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tumyjr/more_than_half_of_americans_are_not_financially/opfcstg/", "content": "Buying junk they don't need. Facebook and Google aren't getting rich from guys like me who spend most of my money at the grocery store . But as an investor I won't complain" }, { "id": "t1_opbfnrm", "author": "/u/9HelixWizard", "updated": "2026-06-02T13:43:17+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tumyjr/more_than_half_of_americans_are_not_financially/opbfnrm/", "content": "sad but true, the system rewards whoever reads the fine print" }, { "id": "t1_opcs2lq", "author": "/u/ether_reddit", "updated": "2026-06-02T17:20:05+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tumyjr/more_than_half_of_americans_are_not_financially/opcs2lq/", "content": "And those very tasty bank dividends, which now cover all of my mortgage payment." }, { "id": "t1_opeel75", "author": "/u/Calm_Situation_1131", "updated": "2026-06-02T21:45:34+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tumyjr/more_than_half_of_americans_are_not_financially/opeel75/", "content": "It's more than that, it's the general information asymmetry that lets companies in the SP500, VTI, VXUS, etc get outsized profits. If everyone optimized like us, those companies would not make nearly the same amount of money." }, { "id": "t1_opbm89z", "author": "/u/BreakfastUnlucky5448", "updated": "2026-06-02T14:14:51+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tumyjr/more_than_half_of_americans_are_not_financially/opbm89z/", "content": "I use zero Apr credit cards. If you have the cash, never miss a payment, etc it’s an interest free loan." }, { "id": "t1_opan6mj", "author": "/u/ThinkBlue87", "updated": "2026-06-02T11:01:37+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tumyjr/more_than_half_of_americans_are_not_financially/opan6mj/", "content": "This is a next to worthless survey. This is the entirety of the survey:\n During the past year (2025), about how much money do you think you lost because you lacked knowledge about personal finances?\n There is far too much for interpretation and the most illiterate won't be aware of dumb mistakes that they made." }, { "id": "t1_opb2ez6", "author": "/u/teach-xx", "updated": "2026-06-02T12:35:11+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tumyjr/more_than_half_of_americans_are_not_financially/opb2ez6/", "content": "It’s not next to worthless if you think of it like a doctor asking you rate your pain on a scale of 1 to 10. On an individual basis, my 4 is meaningless—you have no idea how bad I’m really hurting. But when you analyze large groups, or do comparisons across time periods, you get data that are reasonably useful." }, { "id": "t1_opbcjis", "author": "/u/Round-Outcome6491", "updated": "2026-06-02T13:27:52+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tumyjr/more_than_half_of_americans_are_not_financially/opbcjis/", "content": "Yep. Self reporting is one of the worst things they could do.\n Instead ask them actually personal finance questions. Like give them multiple debts at different interest rates and ask them to rank them which shoupd be paid off first. Ask them to do a net present value calculation. Ask them to do a basic budget calculation." }, { "id": "t1_opbc39u", "author": "/u/dissentmemo", "updated": "2026-06-02T13:25:38+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tumyjr/more_than_half_of_americans_are_not_financially/opbc39u/", "content": "That is incorrect.\n https://www.tiaa.org/public/institute/publication/2025/financial-literacy-and-retirement-fluency-in-america" }, { "id": "t1_opbufmg", "author": "/u/heridfel37", "updated": "2026-06-02T14:52:34+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tumyjr/more_than_half_of_americans_are_not_financially/opbufmg/", "content": "Here are some sample questions from the 2026 version:\n https://www.tiaa.org/content/dam/tiaa/institute/pdf/2026-05/tiaa-institute-gflec-p-fin-8-quiz.pdf" }, { "id": "t1_opb85fr", "author": "/u/LettuceFuture8840", "updated": "2026-06-02T13:05:45+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tumyjr/more_than_half_of_americans_are_not_financially/opb85fr/", "content": "The retirement questions are weird too. The correct answer for what to do if you are worried about running out of money in old age is “buy an annuity.”" }, { "id": "t1_opbmfi4", "author": "/u/DigmonsDrill", "updated": "2026-06-02T14:15:49+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tumyjr/more_than_half_of_americans_are_not_financially/opbmfi4/", "content": "On average, Medicare and other government programs cover how much of an individual’s health care in retirement?\n\n- Over 90%\n- About 2/3\n- About 1/2 Hell if I know.\n The answer of course is the one in the middle.\n On average in the U.S., how long will a 65-year-old [man/woman] live?\n\n- About 14 more years (age 79)/About 17 more years (age 82).\n- About 19 more years (age 84)/About 22 more years (age 87).\n- About 24 more years I can't imagine being marked wrong for being off by 5 years.\n The answer of course is the one in the middle." }, { "id": "t1_opd8d9c", "author": "/u/MattieShoes", "updated": "2026-06-02T18:30:41+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tumyjr/more_than_half_of_americans_are_not_financially/opd8d9c/", "content": "I can't imagine being marked wrong for being off by 5 years.\n Feels like "do you understand statistics?" ie. the 1.7% of men and 1.1% of women that already died before 65 are pulling down the average lifespan, so the older you get, the higher the average lifespan gets for your cohort.\n FWIW, according to the SSA -- 17.48 years for men and 20.12 years for women." }, { "id": "t1_opb1crf", "author": "/u/DeadFacesInMyPocket", "updated": "2026-06-02T12:29:12+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tumyjr/more_than_half_of_americans_are_not_financially/opb1crf/", "content": "Charlie: "I dont know like, 3?"\n Dee: "3 what, Charlie?!"\n Charlie: "3 carbons?"" }, { "id": "t1_opbs92i", "author": "/u/heridfel37", "updated": "2026-06-02T14:42:38+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tumyjr/more_than_half_of_americans_are_not_financially/opbs92i/", "content": "I have three kids and no money. Why can't I have no kids and three money?" }, { "id": "t1_opd7b2d", "author": "/u/MattieShoes", "updated": "2026-06-02T18:25:59+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tumyjr/more_than_half_of_americans_are_not_financially/opd7b2d/", "content": "Feels like the bell curve meme... both ends going "0%"" }, { "id": "t1_opaq11p", "author": "/u/ColtonComeau", "updated": "2026-06-02T11:20:55+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tumyjr/more_than_half_of_americans_are_not_financially/opaq11p/", "content": "Over half of Americans read below a 6th grade level as well." }, { "id": "t1_opas7w3", "author": "/u/etempleton", "updated": "2026-06-02T11:35:06+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tumyjr/more_than_half_of_americans_are_not_financially/opas7w3/", "content": "This fact blows my mind every time I hear it, but it explains pretty much everything about this country right now. People just don’t have the tools to understand what is happening and then they get confused and angry." }, { "id": "t1_opazqsw", "author": "/u/Ok-Actuator8579", "updated": "2026-06-02T12:20:03+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tumyjr/more_than_half_of_americans_are_not_financially/opazqsw/", "content": "I don’t think it’s just “right now”. Lower expectations have been an issue in public schools for several years. Places like you least expect like Mississippi actually improved student capabilities drastically due to changing back to old standards of reading and math. Places where we spend a ton per pupil like CA are failing. We need standards everywhere." }, { "id": "t1_opbzmy4", "author": "/u/etempleton", "updated": "2026-06-02T15:15:55+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tumyjr/more_than_half_of_americans_are_not_financially/opbzmy4/", "content": "I wasn’t speaking to the current education system. Functional literacy is an issue among every age demo. A lot of people can technically read but lack comprehension skills. Anything beyond basic language is effectively incomprehensible, so their ability to learn and understand more complex systems with esoteric language and jargon such as finance and taxes is limited. I don’t think this is purely an education issue, though that is part of it. A lot of people just won’t take the time or effort to learn. Some people avoid thinking like others avoid manually labor." }, { "id": "t1_opcws2j", "author": "/u/skriefal", "updated": "2026-06-02T17:40:22+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tumyjr/more_than_half_of_americans_are_not_financially/opcws2j/", "content": "A lot of people just won’t take the time or effort to learn. Some people avoid thinking like others avoid manually labor.\n This may be the primary issue. Not an inability to learn or to think, but an unwillingness to do so. Not a lack of the tools, but an unwillingness to use the tools.\n This makes them easier to control - which is attractive to certain elements of our society." }, { "id": "t1_opclg5q", "author": "/u/aunsafe2015", "updated": "2026-06-02T16:51:15+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tumyjr/more_than_half_of_americans_are_not_financially/opclg5q/", "content": "are you saying mississipi public schools are better than CA public schools?\n I'm gonna need to see some data for that... lol" }, { "id": "t1_opcmyxt", "author": "/u/Ok-Actuator8579", "updated": "2026-06-02T16:57:54+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tumyjr/more_than_half_of_americans_are_not_financially/opcmyxt/", "content": "Feel free to check this yourself but yes NEAP scores show Ca falling and Ms rising… Failed State Update: Mississippi Laps California in Reading Scores by jpitney | Jan 22, 2026 | California Politics, Education Dan Walters: Overall, California’s public school test scores not only fare poorly in comparison to those in other states, but have lost ground in some key areas, as latest results from the National Assessment of Educational Progress revealed in September.\n In fourth-grade reading skills, a vital area since reading comprehension is the door to mastering all other subjects, California ranked an embarrassing 37th among the states in 2024 tests. Just 29% of its students achieved proficient levels, down two points from 2022. Black and Latino fourth-graders appeared to struggle the most. … As the New York Times recently reported in great detail, Mississippi was 49th in fourth-grade reading proficiency in 2013, but state leaders acknowledged the damage and decided to do something about it. Central to the state’s reform was adoption of the “science of reading,” the current name for phonics, while targeting efforts on kids in the early grades in an effort to prepare them for learning at all levels…Mississippi also set tough academic standards and state political leaders made improvement a top-drawer issue — not just one of many. The latest national assessments found that Mississippi now has the ninth-highest fourth-grade reading scores." }, { "id": "t1_opbqk5b", "author": "/u/Strazdas1", "updated": "2026-06-02T14:34:57+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tumyjr/more_than_half_of_americans_are_not_financially/opbqk5b/", "content": "Turns out you cannot just digital standardized test everything into education." }, { "id": "t1_opbq6eo", "author": "/u/Gandalf-and-Frodo", "updated": "2026-06-02T14:33:10+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tumyjr/more_than_half_of_americans_are_not_financially/opbq6eo/", "content": "It's insane. I don't know how these types of people survive. I have a college degree and I barely get by. Imagine not being able to read at a 6th grade level or not having anything besides very basic logic to use. It blows my mind." }, { "id": "t1_opbvdas", "author": "/u/ColtonComeau", "updated": "2026-06-02T14:56:47+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tumyjr/more_than_half_of_americans_are_not_financially/opbvdas/", "content": "These people vote too" }, { "id": "t1_opd0wyt", "author": "/u/PoorlyDesignedCat", "updated": "2026-06-02T17:58:08+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tumyjr/more_than_half_of_americans_are_not_financially/opd0wyt/", "content": "They do jobs that don't require that as much reading comprehension or reasoning, and there are plenty of those jobs out there. There are all kinds of trade jobs, hospitality jobs, and sales jobs you can do without being able to read a book or use advanced logic.\n We also have research showing that intelligence isn't nearly as correlated to financial success as you'd expect. People with college degrees and white collar jobs (myself included in this bunch) tend to have this bias toward education and reasoning skills, even though they often don't bear out the financial results we'd think.\n Compare a social worker making 50k/y with a masters degree to a construction worker making 60k/y with no undergrad degree, as an example. Maybe the construction worker can't read and write long reports or analyze the social conditions of a community, but he does a really great job building homes, and that has plenty of economic value." }, { "id": "t1_opd6heu", "author": "/u/TowlieisCool", "updated": "2026-06-02T18:22:19+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tumyjr/more_than_half_of_americans_are_not_financially/opd6heu/", "content": "Consider also that the U.S. is ranked ~20 in average IQ, meaning there are 175 countries with a lower IQ average, not to mention IQ has increased historically as access to better childhood nutrition has improved. The world has operated on a lot less for an extremely long time, which is crazy." }, { "id": "t1_opdxilo", "author": "/u/No_Lifeguard747", "updated": "2026-06-02T20:24:29+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tumyjr/more_than_half_of_americans_are_not_financially/opdxilo/", "content": "Including the Oval Office occupant." }, { "id": "t1_opbr2fi", "author": "/u/flateplane", "updated": "2026-06-02T14:37:17+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tumyjr/more_than_half_of_americans_are_not_financially/opbr2fi/", "content": "At an economist consortium they ask questions about really basic aspects of American life. Like which insurance plan to pick. More than 70% of them got it wrong.\n Americans are really just killed with a bureaucratic burden." }, { "id": "t1_opgvn4u", "author": "/u/madstcla", "updated": "2026-06-03T06:54:56+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tumyjr/more_than_half_of_americans_are_not_financially/opgvn4u/", "content": "Wdym "like which insurance plan to pick"? Evaluating insurance policies is not easy and the "right" insurance plan for one person isnt necessarily the right insurance plan for someone else." }, { "id": "t1_opc01k5", "author": "/u/That-SoCal-Guy", "updated": "2026-06-02T15:17:43+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tumyjr/more_than_half_of_americans_are_not_financially/opc01k5/", "content": "Under education is how you can control the masses. There is a direct correlation between education levels and political alignments in this country." }, { "id": "t1_opaoafo", "author": "/u/Accomplished-Order43", "updated": "2026-06-02T11:09:12+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tumyjr/more_than_half_of_americans_are_not_financially/opaoafo/", "content": "I was trying to find this financial literacy test for my own curiosity. I couldn’t find the test but found sample questions for anyone else interested.\n “Here are three questions that were part of the 2022 survey:\n 1). There’s a 50/50 chance that Malik’s car will need engine repairs within the next six months which would cost $1,000. At the same time there is a 10% chance that he will need to replace the air conditioning unit in his house, which would cost $4,000. Which poses the greater financial risk for Malik?\n 2). Anna saves $500 each year for 10 years and then stops saving additional money. At the same time, Charlie saves nothing for 10 years but then receives a $5,000 gift, which he decides to save. If both Anna and Charlie earn a 5% return each year, who will have more money in savings after 20 years?\n 3). Jose owes $1,000 on a loan that has an interest rate of 20% per year compounded annually. If he makes no payments on the loan, at this interest rate, how many years will it take for the amount he owes to double? (Possible answers: less than 5 years; 5 to 10 years; More than 10 years; Don’t know)\n https://finance.yahoo.com/news/23-adults-got-three-quarters-143101841.html\n ETA: answers are in the link but I’ll add them for clarity sake.\n ————————————\n 1.Despite the air conditioning repair potentially costing Malik $4,000, the likelihood of a $1,000 car repair is far greater, meaning it poses a more significant financial risk.\n\n- Anna would have more money after 20 years than Charlie, considering her savings would have a 10-year head start to accumulate interest.\n\n- If your answer to the third question was “less than 5 years,” you would have been among the respondents who answered it correctly. Without making payments on his car loan, Jose’s loan balance would double within four years" }, { "id": "t1_opatmtp", "author": "/u/SimpleJackery", "updated": "2026-06-02T11:43:59+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tumyjr/more_than_half_of_americans_are_not_financially/opatmtp/", "content": "These would make me overthink\n 1) The answer is supposed to be the engine repairs since the cost on average will be $500 and the AC is $400.\n But if Malik lives paycheck to paycheck and has $1200 in the bank then he can pay for repairs but not the AC making the AC the financial risk.\n Or if he has $50 in his bank and he can’t pay either way maybe the AC is better because there’s a 10% chance he can’t pay compared to a 50% chance he can’t pay.\n Also living without a car and losing out on a ride to work is a higher financial risk than having to go without AC for a while. This indicates the car is always the risky one.\n Nightmare of a question for me" }, { "id": "t1_opawdg0", "author": "/u/DeadFacesInMyPocket", "updated": "2026-06-02T12:00:32+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tumyjr/more_than_half_of_americans_are_not_financially/opawdg0/", "content": "Car. You can live without an AC. Most people need a car to work and get groceries and stuff. Don't over think it." }, { "id": "t1_opayfkm", "author": "/u/ManufacturerNo3111", "updated": "2026-06-02T12:12:36+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tumyjr/more_than_half_of_americans_are_not_financially/opayfkm/", "content": "We don’t know where he lives. Lots of people can do without a car but not without house AC. Maybe he works remotely and has groceries delivered. This is not a good question. It’s more probability maths question than finance." }, { "id": "t1_opbsl0q", "author": "/u/grownup_eel", "updated": "2026-06-02T14:44:08+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tumyjr/more_than_half_of_americans_are_not_financially/opbsl0q/", "content": "My mechanic brain is going bork. Why would someone even attempt to drive a car that has a 50/50 chance of engine failure? Other people's cars, man smh" }, { "id": "t1_opchnf4", "author": "/u/Number127", "updated": "2026-06-02T16:34:43+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tumyjr/more_than_half_of_americans_are_not_financially/opchnf4/", "content": "Because if they can't get to work they can't pay rent?" }, { "id": "t1_opckh3c", "author": "/u/grownup_eel", "updated": "2026-06-02T16:47:02+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tumyjr/more_than_half_of_americans_are_not_financially/opckh3c/", "content": "That's when you bust out the tools. Parts store is open till 9 PM, you have till 5 am to get the job done.\n I can't imagine how terrifying and expensive car ownership is when you don't know how to turn a wrench." }, { "id": "t1_oped7i5", "author": "/u/Walmart-Shopper-22", "updated": "2026-06-02T21:38:43+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tumyjr/more_than_half_of_americans_are_not_financially/oped7i5/", "content": "He lives in iceland." }, { "id": "t1_opbopd4", "author": "/u/Strazdas1", "updated": "2026-06-02T14:26:20+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tumyjr/more_than_half_of_americans_are_not_financially/opbopd4/", "content": "There is no people except with physical disability that cannot live without house AC. It just wont be comfortable." }, { "id": "t1_opc7lvk", "author": "/u/ThirstyWolfSpider", "updated": "2026-06-02T15:50:52+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tumyjr/more_than_half_of_americans_are_not_financially/opc7lvk/", "content": "You should expect that claim to be less true over time, as heat risk continues to rise, due to urban heat islands, general global warming and shifts in weather patterns and humidity. It is expected that wet-bulb events will become more of an issue.\n Even before those trends, worldwide we already record about a half million heat deaths a year ." }, { "id": "t1_ophg8hw", "author": "/u/Strazdas1", "updated": "2026-06-03T09:52:45+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tumyjr/more_than_half_of_americans_are_not_financially/ophg8hw/", "content": "True, but Wet-bulb effects are mostly theoretical for now. Practically only exists in two places in the world for two months at most. But yeah, will be more common. That being said, places its forming is extremely low density already, not many will be affected directly.\n The death in your link include things like people with physical disability, people who reclessly do streneous activities in heat, infants left in hot cars, etc. I wonder how many of them are people dying inside their homes from heat. I doubt it will be significant number." }, { "id": "t1_opb7j1n", "author": "/u/itsacalamity", "updated": "2026-06-02T13:02:30+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tumyjr/more_than_half_of_americans_are_not_financially/opb7j1n/", "content": "not everywhere ...." }, { "id": "t1_opaxi0g", "author": "", "updated": "2026-06-02T12:07:11+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tumyjr/more_than_half_of_americans_are_not_financially/opaxi0g/", "content": "[deleted]" }, { "id": "t1_opayfwu", "author": "/u/Crystilonus", "updated": "2026-06-02T12:12:39+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tumyjr/more_than_half_of_americans_are_not_financially/opayfwu/", "content": "The car is the answer ….. so he was right?" }, { "id": "t1_opb11k2", "author": "/u/DeadFacesInMyPocket", "updated": "2026-06-02T12:27:28+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tumyjr/more_than_half_of_americans_are_not_financially/opb11k2/", "content": "It is a stupid question though. Way to many unknown variables." }, { "id": "t1_opfb4av", "author": "/u/jsonson", "updated": "2026-06-03T00:41:11+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tumyjr/more_than_half_of_americans_are_not_financially/opfb4av/", "content": "Can't live without AC in Houston. Seriously." }, { "id": "t1_opfjdvd", "author": "/u/flukus", "updated": "2026-06-03T01:27:58+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tumyjr/more_than_half_of_americans_are_not_financially/opfjdvd/", "content": "People did live there before AC." }, { "id": "t1_opavczw", "author": "/u/thatvassarguy08", "updated": "2026-06-02T11:54:32+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tumyjr/more_than_half_of_americans_are_not_financially/opavczw/", "content": "Answer the question with the given information. Don't makes stuff up. Then it's easy." }, { "id": "t1_opaysij", "author": "/u/david7873829", "updated": "2026-06-02T12:14:40+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tumyjr/more_than_half_of_americans_are_not_financially/opaysij/", "content": "You have to define “financial risk”. Does it simply mean expected value?\n I think most people are going to answer these questions per their own life experiences. Perhaps to many a $1000 expense is manageable and therefore they will (correctly!) answer that the A/C is more risky. But others may say engine because they cannot tolerate any surprise expenses.\n Or consider that people live in different parts of the country where A/C is more less optional, or to a lesser extent, cars are more or less optional.\n The point is that the survey question is bad because they are not really asking everyone the same question." }, { "id": "t1_opbalky", "author": "/u/thatvassarguy08", "updated": "2026-06-02T13:18:13+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tumyjr/more_than_half_of_americans_are_not_financially/opbalky/", "content": "The question could've been written better. But then again, anyone financially literate would know what it's asking. And yes person differences do.matter, but we know what the intent is. If a question asks if a knife or a sword is more dangerous, just because a fencer might be more worried about the knife doesn't change the answer for the population as a whole." }, { "id": "t1_opbb1lq", "author": "/u/david7873829", "updated": "2026-06-02T13:20:26+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tumyjr/more_than_half_of_americans_are_not_financially/opbb1lq/", "content": "No, you need to define “financial risk”. Does it mean expected value or is it asking about volatility? You will get a different answer based on two different but reasonable definitions. The question should just ask what the expected financial cost is, if that’s what they want." }, { "id": "t1_opbypcs", "author": "/u/mr---jones", "updated": "2026-06-02T15:11:47+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tumyjr/more_than_half_of_americans_are_not_financially/opbypcs/", "content": "Financial risk is defined mathematically however. It’s not “how you feel risk is defined”. There is a mathematically correct answer for this question.\n You are showing why half of Americans aren’t financially literate." }, { "id": "t1_opc5l51", "author": "/u/david7873829", "updated": "2026-06-02T15:42:02+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tumyjr/more_than_half_of_americans_are_not_financially/opc5l51/", "content": "My dude, we both understand this definition. I am saying other people might interpret the question differently. If it was explained more clearly they would absolutely understand it. This does not make them financially illiterate." }, { "id": "t1_opca6cg", "author": "/u/mr---jones", "updated": "2026-06-02T16:02:00+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tumyjr/more_than_half_of_americans_are_not_financially/opca6cg/", "content": "My dude, if you have to make it understandable to most people, you would just be showing them the answer to the question. Interpreting the question in the wrong way to get the wrong answer doesn’t mean the question is bad, it means you don’t know the answer." }, { "id": "t1_opcb1yl", "author": "/u/david7873829", "updated": "2026-06-02T16:05:52+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tumyjr/more_than_half_of_americans_are_not_financially/opcb1yl/", "content": "Do you understand what financial literacy is? It is not knowing mathematical definitions." }, { "id": "t1_opbp0ya", "author": "/u/Strazdas1", "updated": "2026-06-02T14:27:49+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tumyjr/more_than_half_of_americans_are_not_financially/opbp0ya/", "content": "A knife is more dangerous because you can more easily have the knife concealed and thus get surprise attack. This is answered by actual data in UK given the number of knife, axe and yes even sword attacks :)" }, { "id": "t1_opbypnq", "author": "/u/thatvassarguy08", "updated": "2026-06-02T15:11:50+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tumyjr/more_than_half_of_americans_are_not_financially/opbypnq/", "content": "And has nothing to do with the accessibility and availability of knives. For example, how many knievs do you have? And how many swords?\n Concealment doesn't really matter when you know it's there because, say a question told you it was." }, { "id": "t1_opaxaa9", "author": "/u/SimpleJackery", "updated": "2026-06-02T12:05:55+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tumyjr/more_than_half_of_americans_are_not_financially/opaxaa9/", "content": "Still a bad question. Risk is commonly defined as volatility rather than expected return when talking finance. Therefore the Ac with standard deviation of $1204 is higher than risk of repair at $500 standard deviation. This isn’t making up any assumptions for Malik" }, { "id": "t1_opc4r3c", "author": "/u/AngryT-Rex", "updated": "2026-06-02T15:38:21+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tumyjr/more_than_half_of_americans_are_not_financially/opc4r3c/", "content": "Yeah - also, $1k in maintenance at 50% probability within the next 6 months just sounds like "owning an out-of-warranty car" with, frankly, more certainty than usual. It isn't really a "risk" especially once there is a known issue: cars have maintenance costs. Anybody who expects "I'll budget for the manufacturer specified maintenance and nothing else ever" is going to learn a few unpleasant things about items like alternators.\n Perhaps $1k would have sounded like a car-related "risk" back in the 90's: now $1k is barely more than "we noticed heavy corrosion on your water pump and it's pretty ancient, the seals are probably failing, we should replace that when we do your timing belt."" }, { "id": "t1_opbzp4y", "author": "/u/mr---jones", "updated": "2026-06-02T15:16:11+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tumyjr/more_than_half_of_americans_are_not_financially/opbzp4y/", "content": "Can you show your math? Because given the same time period - .1 x4000 is less than .5x1000, so the car repair has a higher cost likelihood in the same timeframe." }, { "id": "t1_opciu70", "author": "/u/SimpleJackery", "updated": "2026-06-02T16:39:55+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tumyjr/more_than_half_of_americans_are_not_financially/opciu70/", "content": "Take the example to an extreme. I flip a coin.\n Option 1) I charge you $1 for heads and $2 for tails\n Option 2) I give you $100,000 for heads and charge you $100,00 for tails\n Yes option 1 has a higher expected cost (-$1.5) but option 2 ($0) is significantly more financially risky" }, { "id": "t1_opckxlx", "author": "/u/mr---jones", "updated": "2026-06-02T16:49:02+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tumyjr/more_than_half_of_americans_are_not_financially/opckxlx/", "content": "Everything you said is correct except your final answer and as you tried to show, it is actually more clear when taken to the extreme.\n Option 2 is less risky given the information. Option 1 is guaranteed cost given multiple flops, where option two is probability of 0 cost. 100k or a billion dollars, mathematically there is less risk. This is why the 6months matters. If you had to flip the coin a million times - option 2 is a way safer option than knowing you’ll literally owe 1 million no matter what." }, { "id": "t1_opcp764", "author": "/u/SimpleJackery", "updated": "2026-06-02T17:07:34+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tumyjr/more_than_half_of_americans_are_not_financially/opcp764/", "content": "Who says you get to try again if you lose? How many attempts can you afford if you hit a losing streak? Yes repeated attempts lowers the volatility (risk). Sort of like how diversifying stocks lowers risk as well.\n Personally I would say it’s more risky to have a 50% chance of having to explain to my wife why I lost 100k today making the “finacially safer” choice than just paying one or two dollars max." }, { "id": "t1_opcqu83", "author": "/u/mr---jones", "updated": "2026-06-02T17:14:40+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tumyjr/more_than_half_of_americans_are_not_financially/opcqu83/", "content": "This isn’t assessing your feeling about risk, this is assessing your financial literacy regarding statistical financial risk." }, { "id": "t1_opcrvhe", "author": "/u/SimpleJackery", "updated": "2026-06-02T17:19:12+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tumyjr/more_than_half_of_americans_are_not_financially/opcrvhe/", "content": "There’s a reason many people say bonds are less risky than stock despite having a lower expected return than stock. You don’t understand risk and I’m gonna stop engaging with you if it just makes you upset and downvote me when I try to help" }, { "id": "t1_opb5k70", "author": "/u/Mediocre-Pizza-Guy", "updated": "2026-06-02T12:52:13+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tumyjr/more_than_half_of_americans_are_not_financially/opb5k70/", "content": "Sometimes the given information isn't enough.\n The financial risk needs to include all of the reasonable financial aspects. That's not just the cost, but also things like opportunity cost.\n For most Americans, the car is reasonably necessary for them to get to work and work is where they make most of their money.\n For almost all Americans AC is a comfort issue, that costs them money to run, that they only really 'need' 2-4 months out the year.\n But without knowing knowing more, I can't accurately value the cost of either." }, { "id": "t1_opb9t7j", "author": "/u/thatvassarguy08", "updated": "2026-06-02T13:14:14+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tumyjr/more_than_half_of_americans_are_not_financially/opb9t7j/", "content": "Yes you can. You can accurately value the cost using the given parameters. If the other aspects aren't present, then don't use them. Especially when it's a standard multiple choice questions and you know what the right answer is. Jesus, when people say they are bad test takers, they really mean, "I just can't seem to get out of my own way." This isn't rocket science." }, { "id": "t1_opbbsnp", "author": "/u/Mediocre-Pizza-Guy", "updated": "2026-06-02T13:24:09+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tumyjr/more_than_half_of_americans_are_not_financially/opbbsnp/", "content": "It's not a math test , it is a financial literacy test . It's a word problem and they selected the words with a purpose.\n A broken air conditioner isn't a financial risk at all.\n That it is an air conditioner is present in the word problem.\n They could have used two different but nessecary parts of the car if they wanted us to do the math problem.\n They could have simply not told us what was breaking too.\n There's a 50/50 chance that Malik's car will need engine repairs within the next six months which would cost $1,000. At the same time there is a 10% chance that he will need to replace the transmission, which would cost $4,000. Which poses the greater financial risk for Malik?\n Most people, if their car breaks, they can't reasonably get to work. If their AC breaks, they are uncomfortable." }, { "id": "t1_opc1bml", "author": "/u/mr---jones", "updated": "2026-06-02T15:23:24+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tumyjr/more_than_half_of_americans_are_not_financially/opc1bml/", "content": "Financial literacy tests are almost always math tests lmao. This is exactly why people aren’t literate. If you live in Arizona and it’s July - your “uncomfortable” just became deadly. If you live in the middle of NYC and wfh, your car repair just made you uncomfortable. While many aspects of financial literacy may involve knowledge in how certain financial aspects work, usually to apply them you need some level of simple or advanced math.\n The whole point of financial literacy is essentially “can you apply mathematical functions to financial problems to make good financial decisions”. Quite literally, is x or y more expensive of an issue, or is a or b a better financial choice for you.\n In these questions, you can’t possibly cover all bases. Nor can you in life. So, you want to make the best mathematical decision to cover." }, { "id": "t1_operqs2", "author": "/u/madstcla", "updated": "2026-06-02T22:53:31+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tumyjr/more_than_half_of_americans_are_not_financially/operqs2/", "content": "I mean, what do you want the question to say... give a whole life story and background of the person? Yes, there are multiple factors into calculating risk, and risk tolerance wont be the same for all people. Also, in lots of places in the US, living without A/C is 100% a safety issue. I think based on the info given, the question is pretty clearly asking whether you understand and can calculate expected value. Otherwise, just write "it depends," for all questions. (Math teachers hate this one trick.)" }, { "id": "t1_opffmn8", "author": "/u/Mediocre-Pizza-Guy", "updated": "2026-06-03T01:06:33+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tumyjr/more_than_half_of_americans_are_not_financially/opffmn8/", "content": "If the question is intending to measure my ability to do basic math, give a basic math problem.\n Instead of comparing two different items, like AC and car, make it two vital components of the car and explicitly state that the vehicle will not operate without both.\n Now everyone is on the same page, even if they don't know anything about cars.\n Writing an ambiguous question turns it into a game of 'Guess what they want me to answer'.\n A big aspect of financal is basic math, sure. And maybe it's just intended to be a math question...but maybe it isn't?\n Other big aspects of financial literacy are things like opportunity cost (if I don't have a working car, I also lose the ability to get to work - and that drastically alters the cost of not repairing the car) and things like identifying needs vs wants, or at least identifying more important/less important (I don't need AC, and 0/50 states require landlords to provide AC, but every state, afaik, requires heat. So it's reasonable to say that AC is a comfort issue, and AC is only used for part of the year. An AC breaking at the end the summer isn't a big deal, you have 8-10 months to worry about it)\n The question is ambiguous. And even people who can do the math, will potentially get it wrong, or right, for reasons other than the math. It's a poorly designed question." }, { "id": "t1_opfm5s5", "author": "/u/madstcla", "updated": "2026-06-03T01:43:51+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tumyjr/more_than_half_of_americans_are_not_financially/opfm5s5/", "content": "Its a financial literacy test. How do you suggest they administer a financial literacy test to see whether you understand expected value and how it applies to real life situations without making it an essay question to address everyone's "What if..." response?\n Its also not reasonable to assume that AC is a comfort issue. It is absolutely a safety issue in certain parts of the country.\n What if you are 100 years old and live in Las Vegas and have a history of suffering heat exhaustion? Should they include all those facts too?\n I dont agree that its a poorly designed question just because it doesn't address every conceivable risk you should consider when making a financial decision. The question is designed to test whether you understand this one issue. Didn't you have math word problems in high school? How'd you answer those?\n John has three apples and Suzy takes one. How many apples are left? "Well it depends on what you mean 'by how many apples you have left?' because technically we dont know what Suzy and John did with the apples, so they might still exist, meaning the answer could be anything between 0 and 3 apples. This is a poorly designed question. "" }, { "id": "t1_opfnqwu", "author": "/u/Mediocre-Pizza-Guy", "updated": "2026-06-03T01:53:01+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tumyjr/more_than_half_of_americans_are_not_financially/opfnqwu/", "content": "Its a financial literacy test. How do you suggest they administer a financial literacy test to see whether you understand expected value and how it applies to real life situations without making it an essay question to address everyone's "What if..." response?\n I already answered this. It's trivial.\n 1 - Change the question at that it is two different parts of the car that might break. Explicitly state that each makes the car inoperable.\n That removes any special consideration people would give to their choice of using a car vs AC in the question.\n That's not the only way though ... if they want to verify if you can do math, just ask the math question.\n If there is a 50% chance of needing to pay $2000... calculate the expected value.\n Expected value is probability * impact. It's simple math, no story needed. EV is -$1000." }, { "id": "t1_opfoonl", "author": "/u/madstcla", "updated": "2026-06-03T01:58:21+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tumyjr/more_than_half_of_americans_are_not_financially/opfoonl/", "content": "Its not to verify if you can do math. Its whether you understand the concept and how to apply it. Your question is better, but that doesn't mean the initial question is flawed." }, { "id": "t1_opbxyad", "author": "/u/mr---jones", "updated": "2026-06-02T15:08:25+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tumyjr/more_than_half_of_americans_are_not_financially/opbxyad/", "content": "The point of these is to utilize financial principles to make rational decisions based off of the given information. Nothing you listed changes the question.\n With the likelihood of the car issue, mathematically it poses a much greater risk, regardless of the amount you are able to save, or not. If you are financially planning, your goal would be prepare for car issue first, then prepare for the ac issue." }, { "id": "t1_ope2510", "author": "/u/ninja9351", "updated": "2026-06-02T20:45:46+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tumyjr/more_than_half_of_americans_are_not_financially/ope2510/", "content": "Exactly, the “expectation value” of the cost of repairs is higher for the car than the AC. For the car this is( 0.50 $1000=$500) while the AC this is (0.10 $4000=$400).\n I would answer the car, but not because it has an inherently higher likelihood of failure. If the car had a 30% chance of failing, the odds are still 3 times higher than the AC, but the expectation value of the result is only (0.30*$1000=$300). In that case, I’d answer the AC.\n It’s a poorly worded question without defined terms. And that’s not even considering the necessity of either item to your quality of life." }, { "id": "t1_opety11", "author": "/u/madstcla", "updated": "2026-06-02T23:05:20+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tumyjr/more_than_half_of_americans_are_not_financially/opety11/", "content": "How else would they administer a financial literacy test? The test is seeing if you understand the concept you described. Of course everything can be answered as "it depends." If you dont come up with the answer you provided, then I'm going to assume you dont know this concept or have never done a math word problem in your entire life..." }, { "id": "t1_opfw57g", "author": "/u/AngryT-Rex", "updated": "2026-06-03T02:41:30+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tumyjr/more_than_half_of_americans_are_not_financially/opfw57g/", "content": "If the goal is testing if people understand "expected value", you either use the term "expected value" or you define it explicitly. "Financial risk" so much less specific that people who do understand the concept will still be "wrong" due to the ambiguity." }, { "id": "t1_opg1r8z", "author": "/u/madstcla", "updated": "2026-06-03T03:16:17+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tumyjr/more_than_half_of_americans_are_not_financially/opg1r8z/", "content": "The goal is to test financial literacy and part of that is understanding the concept of expected value and how to apply it to real world situations, without being told "you should calculate the expected value and compare."\n "Financial risk" is a broad term and encompasses more than just this single concept, but the question is not calling for an answer of every hypothetical scenario.\n The question implicitly says "if you are giving advice to someone and this is all the information you will ever know about it, then what should they do?"\n Otherwise any answer is justifiable... "What if you have public transportation available?" "What if you live in the desert and have a history of heat stroke?" "What if your risk tolerance is higher for one outcome over the other?"\n Not stating every possible scenario doesn't make the question ambiguous. It should be assumed that thats all the facts you will receive, and based on those specific facts, what is your response?" }, { "id": "t1_opg65ys", "author": "/u/AngryT-Rex", "updated": "2026-06-03T03:45:14+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tumyjr/more_than_half_of_americans_are_not_financially/opg65ys/", "content": "If the question is "which possibility would be more costly to include in a long term budget" or "which will on average have the larger cost" then the answer is "the car".\n If the question is "which is a greater financial risk" the answer is "the AC" because the car has a known issue and car problems are not self-healing. Known problems are not really "risks" any more: that ship has sailed and you got unlucky, now they are just problems." }, { "id": "t1_opg6mf3", "author": "/u/madstcla", "updated": "2026-06-03T03:48:17+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tumyjr/more_than_half_of_americans_are_not_financially/opg6mf3/", "content": "The car doesn't have a known issue. Theres a 50% chance it has an issue. AC problems aren't self-healing either." }, { "id": "t1_opg8mxk", "author": "/u/AngryT-Rex", "updated": "2026-06-03T04:01:41+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tumyjr/more_than_half_of_americans_are_not_financially/opg8mxk/", "content": "ACs have a lifespan that varies wildly, 10%/year is a vaguely realistic model for failure for one that's been around for a while.\n Cars need frequent maintenance, some scheduled and some unscheduled. "50% within the next 6 months" is what you get when the mechanic notices heavy corrosion on your water pump and guesses it "might make it through summer" but it is dying soon, if it lasts 6 months it won't last 12. In other words you will be spending that money this year.\n They're just badly chosen examples if the goal is an expected value calculation and it is presented with an imprecise question." }, { "id": "t1_opay85m", "author": "/u/david7873829", "updated": "2026-06-02T12:11:25+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tumyjr/more_than_half_of_americans_are_not_financially/opay85m/", "content": "I think a better way to frame this is in terms of what you should do to remedy. Everyone is going to agree that you need to at least have $1,000 available. That suggests the engine repairs, being more likely, is the most immediate risk to address." }, { "id": "t1_opbds0i", "author": "/u/jrdhytr", "updated": "2026-06-02T13:34:00+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tumyjr/more_than_half_of_americans_are_not_financially/opbds0i/", "content": "These are word problems. You're just supposed to read the text and determine the correct mathematical operation to apply. Most of us should have learned how to do this in school, but many of us have not put this skill into practice in a number of years." }, { "id": "t1_opbj8c8", "author": "/u/Crystilonus", "updated": "2026-06-02T14:00:35+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tumyjr/more_than_half_of_americans_are_not_financially/opbj8c8/", "content": "If anything this entire discussion is showing us that people have regular literacy problems ….." }, { "id": "t1_opd9iyf", "author": "/u/Locke_and_Lloyd", "updated": "2026-06-02T18:35:49+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tumyjr/more_than_half_of_americans_are_not_financially/opd9iyf/", "content": "Like I can easily calculate the expected cost, but a small risk of a major expense is often a bigger risk. Say there's a 100% chance of buying a $5 coffee vs a 1 in 1 million chance of a $1 million expense. The $5 coffee is s 5x greater expected expense, but the $1 million is the only risk." }, { "id": "t1_opet8rc", "author": "/u/madstcla", "updated": "2026-06-02T23:01:32+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tumyjr/more_than_half_of_americans_are_not_financially/opet8rc/", "content": "What? In your situation I will take the 1 in 1 million chance of because odds are that I will pay $0 instead of $5." }, { "id": "t1_opeoofc", "author": "/u/madstcla", "updated": "2026-06-02T22:37:17+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tumyjr/more_than_half_of_americans_are_not_financially/opeoofc/", "content": "Tbf, this is an expected value/cost question, which was a concept I learned in undergrad economics. Maybe reinforcing the point that this stuff needs to be taught in H.S." }, { "id": "t1_opcffxb", "author": "/u/OneImportance4061", "updated": "2026-06-02T16:25:02+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tumyjr/more_than_half_of_americans_are_not_financially/opcffxb/", "content": "https://gflec.org/education/\n The test is there if no one else pointed this out yet" }, { "id": "t1_opaz0oq", "author": "/u/Accomplished-Order43", "updated": "2026-06-02T12:15:57+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tumyjr/more_than_half_of_americans_are_not_financially/opaz0oq/", "content": "I initially began overthinking #1 and realized it’s just asking a probability question.\n 3 is basic math of compounding interest. 2 is probably just as simple but I’m not understanding it or it’s written poorly. I first assumed both people were starting at year 10 with 5k invested. But presume they are saying that Anna was investing at 5% for the first 10 years so she has compounded her money and will get it keep compounding with any new investment. Whereas Charlie is beginning later on his investment journey. Poorly worded question I think." }, { "id": "t1_opbrsep", "author": "/u/heridfel37", "updated": "2026-06-02T14:40:34+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tumyjr/more_than_half_of_americans_are_not_financially/opbrsep/", "content": "#2: By year 10, Anna has saved $5k, but she will also have earned some interest along the way. At year ten, Anna will have $5k saved + interest, Charlie will only have $5k saved." }, { "id": "t1_opbyo6b", "author": "/u/That-SoCal-Guy", "updated": "2026-06-02T15:11:39+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tumyjr/more_than_half_of_americans_are_not_financially/opbyo6b/", "content": "2 is also about compound interest. It’s the tortoise and hare story. The $500 person had an early start. In 10 years she would have invested $5000 all together (same as the other person) but the $5000 would have had 5% compounded every year for 10 years slowly culminating. At the end of her 10 years she would have about $6500 compared to his $5000. After 10 years they would be growing at the same rate but the principals at that 10 year mark would be different. She = $6500. He = $5000.\n This is also the principle of save early and often as well as time in market." }, { "id": "t1_opeutm9", "author": "/u/madstcla", "updated": "2026-06-02T23:10:05+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tumyjr/more_than_half_of_americans_are_not_financially/opeutm9/", "content": "Its not a presumption that Anna was investing at 5% for the first 10 years -- the question states both Anna and Charlie received a 5% return each year." }, { "id": "t1_opauiqu", "author": "/u/david7873829", "updated": "2026-06-02T11:49:26+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tumyjr/more_than_half_of_americans_are_not_financially/opauiqu/", "content": "Is 1) supposed to be answered based on expected value? If Malik has $1,000 set aside (or can otherwise cover that) for engine repairs already there’s minimal risk there and so you’d pick the A/C unit as having more risk. But if he has zero savings, both are going to wipe him out, and so the more likely expense is the more risky." }, { "id": "t1_opawlc3", "author": "/u/DeadFacesInMyPocket", "updated": "2026-06-02T12:01:51+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tumyjr/more_than_half_of_americans_are_not_financially/opawlc3/", "content": "You can live without an AC though, it might be extremely uncomfortable, but you can. Most people need a car to work and survive to make more money to afford both." }, { "id": "t1_opax0e7", "author": "/u/david7873829", "updated": "2026-06-02T12:04:19+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tumyjr/more_than_half_of_americans_are_not_financially/opax0e7/", "content": "That’s another interesting way to answer, though maybe Malik lives in an urban city and can rely on mass transit (annoying but not fatal)." }, { "id": "t1_opaxseb", "author": "/u/DeadFacesInMyPocket", "updated": "2026-06-02T12:08:53+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tumyjr/more_than_half_of_americans_are_not_financially/opaxseb/", "content": "True that. This question is totally an "it depends" on how much Malik needs his car and work situation. If he works from home and can walk to the grocery store I would prioritize the A/C." }, { "id": "t1_opevd38", "author": "/u/madstcla", "updated": "2026-06-02T23:13:00+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tumyjr/more_than_half_of_americans_are_not_financially/opevd38/", "content": "Yeah, but "it depends" defeats every question on this test. You're supposed to answer the question as if this is the only information you know to be true." }, { "id": "t1_opayova", "author": "/u/ManufacturerNo3111", "updated": "2026-06-02T12:14:05+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tumyjr/more_than_half_of_americans_are_not_financially/opayova/", "content": "Not in Louisiana/Texas summers." }, { "id": "t1_opb0udw", "author": "/u/DeadFacesInMyPocket", "updated": "2026-06-02T12:26:19+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tumyjr/more_than_half_of_americans_are_not_financially/opb0udw/", "content": "I live in the southeast, it would be brutal but if you need your car to make money good are you going to ever get your AC fixed??" }, { "id": "t1_opevu80", "author": "/u/madstcla", "updated": "2026-06-02T23:15:33+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tumyjr/more_than_half_of_americans_are_not_financially/opevu80/", "content": "Yeah, but if you die from heat exhaustion then you will make $0 and also be dead. All these assumptions being thrown around to justify an "it depends" answer is so redditor-coded" }, { "id": "t1_opbpwp7", "author": "/u/Strazdas1", "updated": "2026-06-02T14:31:56+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tumyjr/more_than_half_of_americans_are_not_financially/opbpwp7/", "content": "People lived in luisiana/texas summers for hundreds of years before invention of AC. Maybe you could argue for Las Vegas, which was literally unlivable until they built it." }, { "id": "t1_opcdzww", "author": "/u/Lhasa-bark", "updated": "2026-06-02T16:18:42+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tumyjr/more_than_half_of_americans_are_not_financially/opcdzww/", "content": "I live in Miami and can walk to stores, doctors, etc. AC is essential. There’s no way the person who wrote that wanted you to compare the general value of having AC vs. a car, and obvious from the information given that they wanted you to compare the expectation values." }, { "id": "t1_opaxi2l", "author": "/u/Accomplished-Order43", "updated": "2026-06-02T12:07:12+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tumyjr/more_than_half_of_americans_are_not_financially/opaxi2l/", "content": "It’s a probability question, you’re reading too much into it.\n 50% chance of needing engine repairs versus a 10% chance of needing AC replacement.\n But I fell into this problem initially too. Some people might be failing this financial literacy test not because they are illiterate but they overthink it and try to extrapolate too much." }, { "id": "t1_opb97rq", "author": "/u/david7873829", "updated": "2026-06-02T13:11:14+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tumyjr/more_than_half_of_americans_are_not_financially/opb97rq/", "content": "Yes, and this makes the question a poor question for a survey." }, { "id": "t1_opefoe6", "author": "/u/magus-21", "updated": "2026-06-02T21:51:02+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tumyjr/more_than_half_of_americans_are_not_financially/opefoe6/", "content": "Yes, and this makes the question a poor question for a survey.\n It's supposed to suss out loss aversion, which is a characteristic of financial literacy. People are more afraid of very unlikely but large losses more than they are afraid of relatively predictable small losses." }, { "id": "t1_opeg50y", "author": "/u/david7873829", "updated": "2026-06-02T21:53:20+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tumyjr/more_than_half_of_americans_are_not_financially/opeg50y/", "content": "I would be happy if they asked which had higher expected cost/expense or similar. I just think financial risk isn’t specific enough." }, { "id": "t1_opexarc", "author": "/u/magus-21", "updated": "2026-06-02T23:23:31+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tumyjr/more_than_half_of_americans_are_not_financially/opexarc/", "content": "Yeah, that's more of a linguistic thing. Test writers aren't always the best at wording their questions for what they actually want answered, lol" }, { "id": "t1_opcjmtp", "author": "/u/gandolfthe", "updated": "2026-06-02T16:43:23+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tumyjr/more_than_half_of_americans_are_not_financially/opcjmtp/", "content": "Yeah and in real life there are not probabilities that simple or clear. Hey so I was looking at my old civic and there is clearly a 50% chance it will need $1000 in repairs in the next six months... This is grade school math with zero real life application and even less as it relates to financial literacy. All of these questions ignore all of real life. With a car did the alternator go, does it have a minor oil leak, did the water pump burst, on and on and on... Absolutely garbage test..." }, { "id": "t1_opbprid", "author": "/u/Strazdas1", "updated": "2026-06-02T14:31:15+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tumyjr/more_than_half_of_americans_are_not_financially/opbprid/", "content": "Broken AC isnt a financial risk because its not emergency repair. If you have zero savings, well, you are a bit more uncomfortable in your home until you get those savings. If your car broke down you are fucked unless you have public transport, and this question was asked in US so of course not." }, { "id": "t1_opbpxkh", "author": "/u/david7873829", "updated": "2026-06-02T14:32:02+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tumyjr/more_than_half_of_americans_are_not_financially/opbpxkh/", "content": "There are absolutely places in the US where lack of A/C will cause you to die.\n In any case it is not clear this is how the question is meant to be approached either. That’s my point." }, { "id": "t1_opbuk2g", "author": "/u/Strazdas1", "updated": "2026-06-02T14:53:06+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tumyjr/more_than_half_of_americans_are_not_financially/opbuk2g/", "content": "Maybe in places like nevada desert, but not for vast majority of americans." }, { "id": "t1_opc3yc1", "author": "/u/EqualSein", "updated": "2026-06-02T15:34:49+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tumyjr/more_than_half_of_americans_are_not_financially/opc3yc1/", "content": "There are some but you could get by for a while in most places with some ice in front of a fan." }, { "id": "t1_opdanvs", "author": "/u/MattieShoes", "updated": "2026-06-02T18:40:45+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tumyjr/more_than_half_of_americans_are_not_financially/opdanvs/", "content": "Numbers 2 and 3 are just math, but number 1 feels really stupid.\n Like the expected cost is higher for the car than the AC, but the outlay is much higher for the AC. That'd change the risk profile ie. if I can absorb a $1,000 expense but not a $4,000 expense, the risk on the former is small and the latter is large.\n On the other hand, your car is probably how you get to work. That's likely more important regardless of exact figures.\n Unless summer in Phoenix or something, where temperatures can be life threatening. OTOH, winter in Chicago, whatever.\n Plus you're only calculating odds of it landing in a time period, and the odds are relatively large, which means you already know there's something wrong." }, { "id": "t1_opco0od", "author": "/u/RealPutin", "updated": "2026-06-02T17:02:26+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tumyjr/more_than_half_of_americans_are_not_financially/opco0od/", "content": "The 8 question test used this year is linked to on this page\n https://www.tiaa.org/public/institute/publication/2026/tiaa-gflec-personal-finance-index" }, { "id": "t1_opbx52e", "author": "/u/That-SoCal-Guy", "updated": "2026-06-02T15:04:46+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tumyjr/more_than_half_of_americans_are_not_financially/opbx52e/", "content": "Yup. I’m glad I got that education early on. My parents instilled my ability to manage my money and understand personal finances from a very young age. This kind of financial literacy needs to be taught. I know it seems counterintuitive for those of us who actually understand. But there is a saying: when the water rises, all ships rise. Perhaps then our national debts would be be so astronomical?" }, { "id": "t1_opfay6p", "author": "/u/First-Ad-7960", "updated": "2026-06-03T00:40:13+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tumyjr/more_than_half_of_americans_are_not_financially/opfay6p/", "content": "This is the site for the survey data which has a sample quiz. https://www.tiaa.org/public/institute/publication/2026/tiaa-gflec-personal-finance-index" }, { "id": "t1_opfnh64", "author": "/u/LavaDragon3827", "updated": "2026-06-03T01:51:27+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tumyjr/more_than_half_of_americans_are_not_financially/opfnh64/", "content": "I think the bigger robery is the 20% apy.Jesus." }, { "id": "t1_opgreou", "author": "/u/Grantmepm", "updated": "2026-06-03T06:20:51+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tumyjr/more_than_half_of_americans_are_not_financially/opgreou/", "content": "I swear financial literacy is just a cop out for people who didn't bother to learn math and are trying to blame the world for it (boo hop teacher didn't teach me, boo hoo compounding interest is too complex).\n For question 2. Just simple math shows that 500 X 10 = 5000 which means without interest both Anna and Charlie would start in the exact same position. So even 10 years of 0.1% interest would put Anna ahead.\n For question 3. 20% X 1000 (or any number) for 5 years gives you the original number. Never mind compounding.\n Anyone who knows percentages, fractions, time and English (in the US) is already financially literate. Anyone who knows this can compound calculate anything by hand or with a calculator." }, { "id": "t1_opanpk2", "author": "/u/cambeiu", "updated": "2026-06-02T11:05:14+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tumyjr/more_than_half_of_americans_are_not_financially/opanpk2/", "content": "If you can understand and follow the instructions of this 3 minutes SNL sketch , you will be more financially literate than over 50% of Americans.\n And that is not a joke." }, { "id": "t1_opap5hc", "author": "/u/mirror_dude", "updated": "2026-06-02T11:15:02+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tumyjr/more_than_half_of_americans_are_not_financially/opap5hc/", "content": "Classic! I did’t even need to click the link to check. It’s so true." }, { "id": "t1_opbsdzh", "author": "/u/heridfel37", "updated": "2026-06-02T14:43:16+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tumyjr/more_than_half_of_americans_are_not_financially/opbsdzh/", "content": "But what if I want it and don't have the money? Should I still buy it?" }, { "id": "t1_opb3m4u", "author": "/u/marcduberge", "updated": "2026-06-02T12:41:46+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tumyjr/more_than_half_of_americans_are_not_financially/opb3m4u/", "content": "Just had a long text conversation with a friend yesterday. His position is that he wants to invest into SpaceX IPO so he can get money to payoff his house. He says he needs high risk ways to pay it off. I demonstrated that if they pay an extra $3k a month their house will be paid off in 8 years. They make $440k ($36.6k) a month between them. He claims he doesn’t have any free cash flow to do this. I asked where their money goes every month. Kids out of the house. $3k mortgage. They spend and spend and spend." }, { "id": "t1_opc0wdm", "author": "/u/That-SoCal-Guy", "updated": "2026-06-02T15:21:32+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tumyjr/more_than_half_of_americans_are_not_financially/opc0wdm/", "content": "That not illiteracy- obviously they are not stupid people making $440K a year. It’s fiscal irresponsibility. He clearly knows if he pays down the principal he could get rid of the mortgage sooner. He chose to spend the money instead." }, { "id": "t1_opcp108", "author": "/u/marcduberge", "updated": "2026-06-02T17:06:49+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tumyjr/more_than_half_of_americans_are_not_financially/opcp108/", "content": "You are spot on. Has a big jeep he has dumped $100k into. Several vacations a year. Cadillac Escalade on 24s that’s financed.\n We are the same age and I retired almost four years ago. I get the “we aren’t as fortunate as you” response at times. I hate that. My wife and I drive 20/21 year old cars. Don’t take much in the way of vacations. Eat in most meals (healthier). We lived (and continue to live) frugally. I don’t see him retiring in the next 10 years. But I sure don’t want to feel animosity towards us because of the decisions we have made" }, { "id": "t1_opcvgft", "author": "/u/That-SoCal-Guy", "updated": "2026-06-02T17:34:40+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tumyjr/more_than_half_of_americans_are_not_financially/opcvgft/", "content": "They probably think you’re a loser for living pour and they are living like kings while yolo’ing. My brother is exactly like him without the $440K salary." }, { "id": "t1_opfx0ua", "author": "/u/Cars_Music_GoodTimes", "updated": "2026-06-03T02:46:44+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tumyjr/more_than_half_of_americans_are_not_financially/opfx0ua/", "content": "One of my friends is just like your friend: big mortgage, lots of toys, always has an excuse not to invest more. I’m 52 and about to retire, he now realizes he need to work 12-15 more years." }, { "id": "t1_opg1nto", "author": "/u/Bruceshadow", "updated": "2026-06-03T03:15:40+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tumyjr/more_than_half_of_americans_are_not_financially/opg1nto/", "content": "stupid is as stupid does." }, { "id": "t1_opbnk50", "author": "/u/QuesoChef", "updated": "2026-06-02T14:21:03+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tumyjr/more_than_half_of_americans_are_not_financially/opbnk50/", "content": "If he has no free cash flow, how will he invest in Space X?\n My first house was nowhere near $3K. 20-some years ago in a lower COL city. I think my payment was just under $650, if I remember correctly. I had to pay by check each month (no autopay at that point). So I’d round up to the nearest $5 at first. Then I’d add ten more on months I could. I did that through raises and eventually was was paying a few hundred more/mo (never doubled the actual $650 payment, but slowly increased over eight years). It’s such a boring approach, but at some point I looked at the P&I and saw how little was going to principal with my actual payment. So before long i realized I I was doubling principal. Essentially making a double payment each month, but didn’t have to double the actual payment to do that. It’s a bit harder to appreciate that with lower rates, depending on when they bought,\n I took that equity into my next house and got a 15 year mortgage. And then slowly did the same. Third house rolled all equity in, and did a fifteen year. Paid it off in about 8.\n It’s like the avocado toast analogy people hate. But it’s annoyingly true. Just do a little.\n I’ve also helped people start investing in their 401(k)s this way. Just do 1%. Then next raise you get, if it’s more than 2%, invest 1% and you still get a raise. Promotion? Maybe put 2-4% more in.\n Maybe you can try that approach with your friend? Don’t take the full leap to $3K. Start with $100. Then the next month or two, maybe increase to $150 or $200. And watch how much faster the balance decreases." }, { "id": "t1_opbufmo", "author": "/u/marcduberge", "updated": "2026-06-02T14:52:34+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tumyjr/more_than_half_of_americans_are_not_financially/opbufmo/", "content": "He is selling Dell stock to buy it. So selling Dell, incurring LTCG on the chance he might make money. SpaceX will prove to be a fools errand for ignorant investors" }, { "id": "t1_opfbxno", "author": "/u/First-Ad-7960", "updated": "2026-06-03T00:45:48+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tumyjr/more_than_half_of_americans_are_not_financially/opfbxno/", "content": "Yes, that IPO is going to be a giant pump and dump. Send your friend this. https://finance.yahoo.com/markets/article/spacex-valued-at-just-780-billion-by-morningstar-less-than-half-its-ipo-target-174617034.html" }, { "id": "t1_opbuozk", "author": "/u/QuesoChef", "updated": "2026-06-02T14:53:43+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tumyjr/more_than_half_of_americans_are_not_financially/opbuozk/", "content": "I feel like my dad was just telling me how well his Dell stock was doing. I might be thinking of the wrong company. He said he bought it on a lark and figured it would lose." }, { "id": "t1_opdxgzi", "author": "/u/MissWilkem", "updated": "2026-06-02T20:24:17+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tumyjr/more_than_half_of_americans_are_not_financially/opdxgzi/", "content": "Dell is doing well right now….because Trump bought Dell stock, tweeted telling everyone to go out and buy it, and then the Pentagon awarded Dell a $9B contract. Fucking stupid." }, { "id": "t1_opf5c6k", "author": "/u/QuesoChef", "updated": "2026-06-03T00:08:28+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tumyjr/more_than_half_of_americans_are_not_financially/opf5c6k/", "content": "That’s funny. Maybe that’s why my dad bought it! I feel like I have a vague memory of that now." }, { "id": "t1_opffnfv", "author": "/u/flewency", "updated": "2026-06-03T01:06:40+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tumyjr/more_than_half_of_americans_are_not_financially/opffnfv/", "content": "I mean the spacex thing is dumb but I'm more curious why he needs to pay it off right now? Why cant he just keep doing his 3k mortgage payment, taken from his absurdly high income? Like hell I think I would struggle to even find things to spend that much money on" }, { "id": "t1_opal5mp", "author": "/u/pinkzebra00", "updated": "2026-06-02T10:47:32+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tumyjr/more_than_half_of_americans_are_not_financially/opal5mp/", "content": "I’m actually surprised it says 51%. It has always felt like 80% minimum to me…like it’s intentional that Americans aren’t taught personal finance ever." }, { "id": "t1_opc5jev", "author": "/u/Capable-Locksmith-65", "updated": "2026-06-02T15:41:50+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tumyjr/more_than_half_of_americans_are_not_financially/opc5jev/", "content": "I have my own (conspiracy) theory on this. Financial literacy isn’t taught in schools because it’s bad for capitalism and a consumption based economy. If everyone was financially smart, every car dealership/shopping mall/bank would go bankrupt" }, { "id": "t1_opccsp0", "author": "/u/pinkzebra00", "updated": "2026-06-02T16:13:26+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tumyjr/more_than_half_of_americans_are_not_financially/opccsp0/", "content": "That’s exactly what I believe too. It’s by design." }, { "id": "t1_opasv1f", "author": "/u/Ldghead", "updated": "2026-06-02T11:39:11+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tumyjr/more_than_half_of_americans_are_not_financially/opasv1f/", "content": "Ya, there is a duality of messaging. The "feel", is that the # is around 80, but the evidence seems to say more like 50. If it's truly 50, then that means 30% just don't care, and that is dangerous for us all down the road." }, { "id": "t1_opau52s", "author": "/u/pinkzebra00", "updated": "2026-06-02T11:47:07+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tumyjr/more_than_half_of_americans_are_not_financially/opau52s/", "content": "Not even sure which is worse then…" }, { "id": "t1_opbchna", "author": "/u/Ldghead", "updated": "2026-06-02T13:27:36+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tumyjr/more_than_half_of_americans_are_not_financially/opbchna/", "content": "If it is uneducated, then we can teach, and then there is hope. If they don't care, then it won't improve, and there is a high chance of those habits transferring to further generations." }, { "id": "t1_opbqrdv", "author": "/u/Strazdas1", "updated": "2026-06-02T14:35:52+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tumyjr/more_than_half_of_americans_are_not_financially/opbqrdv/", "content": "I think its just... many people who are financially literate dont flaunt it so you dont see it." }, { "id": "t1_opfgil1", "author": "/u/mogoexcelso", "updated": "2026-06-03T01:11:31+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tumyjr/more_than_half_of_americans_are_not_financially/opfgil1/", "content": "Ehh, you can be financially literate but not have the income or opportunity to utilize your knowledge. That can look a lot like not caring" }, { "id": "t1_opbswiu", "author": "/u/QuesoChef", "updated": "2026-06-02T14:45:35+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tumyjr/more_than_half_of_americans_are_not_financially/opbswiu/", "content": "I think 30% not caring or saying they don’t care because they know better but struggle is a fair number. Spending is like eating or drinking alcohol or doing drugs or gambling. It’s harder for some to control than others. I find gambling so boring. And I don’t like being really drunk. But man, don’t offer me pizza. I get a buzz off of seeing my savings grow. Feel almost nothing with a calorie deficit. Though post-workout I feel good (usually feel pretty crappy during)." }, { "id": "t1_opavbc7", "author": "/u/Harmonic-Hyena", "updated": "2026-06-02T11:54:15+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tumyjr/more_than_half_of_americans_are_not_financially/opavbc7/", "content": "I have previously heard 90%. I think that is accurate. If it were 51%, the median retirement savings would not be as low as it is. If at least half were literate then the median would be exactly where it should be. Like everything, it is a spectrum though. half of Americans are probably ”competent enough” to not sabotage themselves too much, but are still far from being literate.\n I work with a lot of smart people, but most of the them make poor designs with money simply because they can afford to. Most probably could not survive if they or their spouses lost a job." }, { "id": "t1_opbsayk", "author": "/u/QuesoChef", "updated": "2026-06-02T14:42:53+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tumyjr/more_than_half_of_americans_are_not_financially/opbsayk/", "content": "My experience with these folks is not literacy. It’s self-control. I compare it to the diet and exercise industry (physical health). Plenty of people know what they should do, they simply don’t. Or don’t feel like they have the self control.\n As someone that financial health comes easily too, but isn’t genetic (wasn’t born rich), but who struggles to make good eating choices, however I do better with exercise though not as easy as financial choices are for me, I feel like I’m very physical health literate. I know, I just struggle to do it. Financially I’m literate and health comes quite easily for me. Idk why one and not the other. This plagues me because I wish physical health came as easily." }, { "id": "t1_opakxmy", "author": "/u/salarymansinferno", "updated": "2026-06-02T10:45:58+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tumyjr/more_than_half_of_americans_are_not_financially/opakxmy/", "content": "i saw a lottery winner post recently with tons of people saying getting $1k a week for 30 years is better than getting $1M upfront tax free 🤷\n edit: i’m not judging the lottery winner here. i’m judging the 100+ commenters on the lottery article that agreed $1k/wk is better than $1M upfront tax free" }, { "id": "t1_opasoco", "author": "/u/Work2Tuff", "updated": "2026-06-02T11:38:01+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tumyjr/more_than_half_of_americans_are_not_financially/opasoco/", "content": "Arguably, it might be if they are the type to spend it on BS." }, { "id": "t1_opanzgk", "author": "/u/More_Armadillo_1607", "updated": "2026-06-02T11:07:08+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tumyjr/more_than_half_of_americans_are_not_financially/opanzgk/", "content": "The story was $1k per week for life or $1M. The winner was 20 years old. If she died within 30 years, she coukd transfer the $1k per week to someone else. I belueve the $1k adjusts for inflation as well." }, { "id": "t1_opaq2oe", "author": "/u/salarymansinferno", "updated": "2026-06-02T11:21:13+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tumyjr/more_than_half_of_americans_are_not_financially/opaq2oe/", "content": "sorry, i misremembered the 30 years element. but if the $1M is invested and she withdraws $4k a month, in 10 years at a 7%, that would become $1.3M. so she loses nothing and can still withdraw $1k a week\n edit: and she’s 20 years old, i don’t expect her to know what’s the better choice. i’m not judging her at all. the point is the fact that 100+ comments said choosing $1k/wk was the right choice." }, { "id": "t1_opare8i", "author": "/u/More_Armadillo_1607", "updated": "2026-06-02T11:29:51+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tumyjr/more_than_half_of_americans_are_not_financially/opare8i/", "content": "I went back and read the article and the $1k is not adjusted for inflation, which changes the discussion. The reddit discussion said it was, which is what was discussed.\n I haven't done the math but it would be worth considering. Work for 10 years (invest the lottery winnings) and then retire. What works out better? Probably still the $1M, but maybe not over 50 years (I didn't do the math and that also assumed the $1k adjusts for inflation).\n Also, most people blow through the $1M as opposed to investing it, but that is not what we are discussing." }, { "id": "t1_opamvbf", "author": "/u/LabOwn9800", "updated": "2026-06-02T10:59:28+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tumyjr/more_than_half_of_americans_are_not_financially/opamvbf/", "content": "But that’s passive income bro!" }, { "id": "t1_opbrdni", "author": "/u/Strazdas1", "updated": "2026-06-02T14:38:43+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tumyjr/more_than_half_of_americans_are_not_financially/opbrdni/", "content": "The two options are equivalent at return rate of 5.2%, which is bellow market average so 1M upfront is better, but riskier. Though to be honest 5.2 return guaranteed for 30 years risk free is one hell of a deal." }, { "id": "t1_opbo84o", "author": "/u/DigmonsDrill", "updated": "2026-06-02T14:24:07+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tumyjr/more_than_half_of_americans_are_not_financially/opbo84o/", "content": "... That isn't a straightforward question, at all. At a discount rate of 4.29% they are equal." }, { "id": "t1_opaz6ue", "author": "/u/Significant-Task1453", "updated": "2026-06-02T12:16:54+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tumyjr/more_than_half_of_americans_are_not_financially/opaz6ue/", "content": "The 1k might be, as the 1M will probably end with them being bankrupt and having a drug problem\n If it were someone with financial literacy, the 1M makes much more sense" }, { "id": "t1_opazl5q", "author": "/u/salarymansinferno", "updated": "2026-06-02T12:19:09+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tumyjr/more_than_half_of_americans_are_not_financially/opazl5q/", "content": "it’s about all the people commenting/agreeing $1k was the right choice. i’m not judging the lottery winner at all, especially since she’s only 20 years old." }, { "id": "t1_opb1596", "author": "/u/Significant-Task1453", "updated": "2026-06-02T12:28:02+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tumyjr/more_than_half_of_americans_are_not_financially/opb1596/", "content": "I know. People will argue that its thr right choice basing it in math (while being completely wrong).\n Ive also seen the opposite. Hypothetically, you can accept 1m upfront or 5k per day for life. You'll have people in the comments saying they'd take the 1m upfront because "what if you dont live long enough? You arent guaranteed tomorrow"" }, { "id": "t1_opb1sap", "author": "/u/salarymansinferno", "updated": "2026-06-02T12:31:37+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tumyjr/more_than_half_of_americans_are_not_financially/opb1sap/", "content": "$5k per day is a big difference compared to $1k a week!" }, { "id": "t1_opbs05n", "author": "/u/Strazdas1", "updated": "2026-06-02T14:41:32+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tumyjr/more_than_half_of_americans_are_not_financially/opbs05n/", "content": "If they offered 1742 dollars per week the value would be identical assuming long term market return on that 1 million, so its not THAT far off a deal." }, { "id": "t1_opasx5n", "author": "/u/Montaigne_6823", "updated": "2026-06-02T11:39:33+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tumyjr/more_than_half_of_americans_are_not_financially/opasx5n/", "content": "You ate a quarter pounder?" }, { "id": "t1_opatrbn", "author": "/u/Fearless_Tutor3050", "updated": "2026-06-02T11:44:45+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tumyjr/more_than_half_of_americans_are_not_financially/opatrbn/", "content": "Not a single link in this article actually follows through to a source relevant to the claim it is linked to. I know because I was curious about the questions, but the links don't even go to other articles reporting about the financial literacy survey." }, { "id": "t1_opaoa1r", "author": "", "updated": "2026-06-02T11:09:08+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tumyjr/more_than_half_of_americans_are_not_financially/opaoa1r/", "content": "[deleted]" }, { "id": "t1_opbs68n", "author": "/u/Zphr", "updated": "2026-06-02T14:42:17+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tumyjr/more_than_half_of_americans_are_not_financially/opbs68n/", "content": "Rule 7/No Politics or circle-jerks - Your submission has been removed for violating our community rule against politics and circle-jerks. If you feel this removal is in error, then please modmail the mod team. Please review our community rules to help avoid future violations." }, { "id": "t1_opbiydl", "author": "/u/OnlyPaperListens", "updated": "2026-06-02T13:59:16+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tumyjr/more_than_half_of_americans_are_not_financially/opbiydl/", "content": "Last year my work sponsored a series of Teams workshops with a financial advisor. The woman running them told us that the employer contribution (to our 401k) counted towards our limit. Meaning, the 402g limit (she didn't use that term, but that's what she meant, because she cited the number as $23,500). I asked for confirmation in the chat (we were all muted) but she never responded. So now a large chunk of my colleagues have wrong info that will artificially limit their contributions. I tried to push back and nobody cared.\n How can we expect people to be financially literate when "professionals" are steering them wrong?" }, { "id": "t1_opax178", "author": "/u/Barista_life__", "updated": "2026-06-02T12:04:27+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tumyjr/more_than_half_of_americans_are_not_financially/opax178/", "content": "I started dating someone, and I literally had to explain credit cards to him. Like explain what the due date was vs statement date or minimum payment vs interest free payment." }, { "id": "t1_opb013t", "author": "/u/MoaiTrist", "updated": "2026-06-02T12:21:41+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tumyjr/more_than_half_of_americans_are_not_financially/opb013t/", "content": "It is willful ignorance. I went into the financial services industry right out of college. It didn't take long to become jaded. One of the things I specialized in was debt consolidation loans. During the process I would show people how they could reduce their debt payments and then start investing the difference (mutual funds) to improve their future. People very rarely stuck to the plan. Everyone knows debt is bad. Most people simply refuse to delay gratification." }, { "id": "t1_opbcw9d", "author": "/u/NA_Faker", "updated": "2026-06-02T13:29:37+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tumyjr/more_than_half_of_americans_are_not_financially/opbcw9d/", "content": "There’s a toxic school of thought that being broke under crushing debt load with high credit score is better than being debt free and needing to rebuild your credit. It’s actually the default advice on most personal finance subs…they tell people “don’t do loan consolidation it ruins your credit, try to pay off the debt”" }, { "id": "t1_opfkkm5", "author": "/u/Exotic-Entrance4718", "updated": "2026-06-03T01:34:42+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tumyjr/more_than_half_of_americans_are_not_financially/opfkkm5/", "content": "I dont really belong in this group because I am not FIRE but I have 225k invested at 35 and I started at 26. I try to convince friends and younger coworkers to just get started, even offering to help them with stuff and they refuse. Hell I had a friend that came into a large sum of money and just spent it all. I love my friends, but some of them then complain about money." }, { "id": "t1_opb0080", "author": "/u/Significant-Task1453", "updated": "2026-06-02T12:21:33+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tumyjr/more_than_half_of_americans_are_not_financially/opb0080/", "content": "I remember posting that people make stupid financial decisions like a hypothetical that you might be able to buy a like new couch on craigslist for $250, but people who are broke will go buy a new couch from a rent-to-own place for $100 a month for 36 months. There were people arguing that the rent-to-own makes more sense for a lot of people, since they'd never be able to save $250, as some emergency always comes up and wipes out their savings" }, { "id": "t1_opbch12", "author": "/u/NA_Faker", "updated": "2026-06-02T13:27:31+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tumyjr/more_than_half_of_americans_are_not_financially/opbch12/", "content": "The truth is financial literacy isn’t taught at school, it’s taught at home. Teaching kids financial literacy when their parents at home do the opposite isn’t gonna be effective. Most adults would rather live in blissful ignorance than be financially literate and understand they’re in a bad situation." }, { "id": "t1_opc1c4t", "author": "/u/That-SoCal-Guy", "updated": "2026-06-02T15:23:27+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tumyjr/more_than_half_of_americans_are_not_financially/opc1c4t/", "content": "I have someone who texts me everytime there is a market down turn and says he’s lost so much money when he has not sold a single share. Every time. But he wouldn’t say a thing when the market keeps going up. I have to explain to him the difference between realized and unrealized gains and losses. Every time. (Not to mention compared to his initial principals his current balance is already at 5X - he has not “lost” any money at all even on paper).\n He also doesn’t understand why he has to take money out of his retirement account. He can’t understand RMD and thinks it’s government tyranny to force him to withdraw money. He also doesn’t understand what tax deferred means." }, { "id": "t1_opcxe2a", "author": "/u/tcrab", "updated": "2026-06-02T17:43:00+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tumyjr/more_than_half_of_americans_are_not_financially/opcxe2a/", "content": "I don’t understand why people complain about RMDs so much. Yes I realize it’s forced taxes. But the person got all these years of tax free growth." }, { "id": "t1_opczg0r", "author": "/u/That-SoCal-Guy", "updated": "2026-06-02T17:51:47+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tumyjr/more_than_half_of_americans_are_not_financially/opczg0r/", "content": ""But the person got all these years of tax free growth." That's the illiterate part. Not to mention he's actually paying fewer taxes on the money because his tax bracket is lower now than when he was working." }, { "id": "t1_opd02z3", "author": "/u/tcrab", "updated": "2026-06-02T17:54:33+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tumyjr/more_than_half_of_americans_are_not_financially/opd02z3/", "content": "I Should have said tax deferred growth." }, { "id": "t1_opf224q", "author": "/u/berryer", "updated": "2026-06-02T23:50:05+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tumyjr/more_than_half_of_americans_are_not_financially/opf224q/", "content": "Still CG tax-free" }, { "id": "t1_opg4xho", "author": "/u/Necessary-Dog-7245", "updated": "2026-06-03T03:37:03+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tumyjr/more_than_half_of_americans_are_not_financially/opg4xho/", "content": "I haven’t understood completely either. Excess could be reinvested still" }, { "id": "t1_opakz9x", "author": "/u/Environmental-Low792", "updated": "2026-06-02T10:46:17+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tumyjr/more_than_half_of_americans_are_not_financially/opakz9x/", "content": "The biggest issue is that people don't understand inflation and keep cash under the mattress. Long-term, they for all intensive purposes lose most of it.\n The same people view owning stocks as gambling." }, { "id": "t1_opaooxb", "author": "/u/OkMarsupial", "updated": "2026-06-02T11:11:57+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tumyjr/more_than_half_of_americans_are_not_financially/opaooxb/", "content": ""Intents and purposes."" }, { "id": "t1_opamham", "author": "/u/Accomplished-Order43", "updated": "2026-06-02T10:56:47+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tumyjr/more_than_half_of_americans_are_not_financially/opamham/", "content": "for all intensive purposes\n Fyi, the phrase is for all intents and purposes. Just a helpful criticism not trying to grammar nazi you. It’s a common eggcorn." }, { "id": "t1_opaz340", "author": "/u/Environmental-Low792", "updated": "2026-06-02T12:16:20+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tumyjr/more_than_half_of_americans_are_not_financially/opaz340/", "content": "Thank you. English is not that great but I've learned that it's better to stumble through it than rely on AI." }, { "id": "t1_opboexj", "author": "/u/DigmonsDrill", "updated": "2026-06-02T14:25:00+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tumyjr/more_than_half_of_americans_are_not_financially/opboexj/", "content": "I was nearly 30 when I learned the right one." }, { "id": "t1_opao16y", "author": "/u/MoonGrog", "updated": "2026-06-02T11:07:28+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tumyjr/more_than_half_of_americans_are_not_financially/opao16y/", "content": "You describe my step father perfectly." }, { "id": "t1_opb10v3", "author": "/u/jcwillia1", "updated": "2026-06-02T12:27:22+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tumyjr/more_than_half_of_americans_are_not_financially/opb10v3/", "content": "it really bothers me that we graduate how many people from high schools every year and we pay no attention to emotional intelligence and personal finance.\n But holy crap if you can't do algebra, that's a major problem - whatever." }, { "id": "t1_opbhf0t", "author": "/u/DaemonTargaryen2024", "updated": "2026-06-02T13:51:55+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tumyjr/more_than_half_of_americans_are_not_financially/opbhf0t/", "content": "Forget financially literate: just literate , period. More than half of Americans read below a 6th grade reading level . Which means they can't understand most news articles they read, legal documents, medical instructions/disclosures, or even form complex thoughts about political candidates, policies, etc.\n It all starts and ends with education." }, { "id": "t1_opbn1b1", "author": "/u/Strazdas1", "updated": "2026-06-02T14:18:39+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tumyjr/more_than_half_of_americans_are_not_financially/opbn1b1/", "content": "Come to europe where we are just as illiterate but at least not so arrogant about it :)" }, { "id": "t1_opbre7s", "author": "/u/bellecaramella", "updated": "2026-06-02T14:38:47+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tumyjr/more_than_half_of_americans_are_not_financially/opbre7s/", "content": "Devils advocate on this but someone had to pay for their DoorDash and Ubers for the stock market to go up.\n I do wish that we were taught in high school more in personal finances. The system is built for you to fail at this." }, { "id": "t1_opd53rm", "author": "/u/Remarkable-FlipPhone", "updated": "2026-06-02T18:16:20+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tumyjr/more_than_half_of_americans_are_not_financially/opd53rm/", "content": "It’s built according to demand. There’s a huge demand for door dash and uber. They can stop spending their money on that at any time but choose not to." }, { "id": "t1_opao256", "author": "/u/One_Cause3865", "updated": "2026-06-02T11:07:39+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tumyjr/more_than_half_of_americans_are_not_financially/opao256/", "content": "And theyre all on reddit" }, { "id": "t1_opaq7hx", "author": "/u/Same_Pattern_4297", "updated": "2026-06-02T11:22:06+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tumyjr/more_than_half_of_americans_are_not_financially/opaq7hx/", "content": "That’s fine. Less competition" }, { "id": "t1_opb23dl", "author": "/u/teach-xx", "updated": "2026-06-02T12:33:22+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tumyjr/more_than_half_of_americans_are_not_financially/opb23dl/", "content": "To be fair, more than half of Americans are poor and broke. Financial literacy, as we here understand it, is a luxury good. No matter what Suze and Dave yell at people on TV, there are lots of folks who don’t have the money to put monthly deposits into a Roth IRA. I’d worry more about their having extremely precarious finances than whether they know what an ETF is." }, { "id": "t1_opciodm", "author": "/u/Scortius", "updated": "2026-06-02T16:39:14+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tumyjr/more_than_half_of_americans_are_not_financially/opciodm/", "content": "1 is a poor question and arguably wrong. The expected value is worse with the car repair, but the question asks about risk . Even if it's less likely, the consequences of a $4k expense can be devastating whereas a $1k expense may be manageable. It's the entire reason we have insurance. I'm surprised this one made it through." }, { "id": "t1_opfaj93", "author": "/u/Inevitable-Cap1092", "updated": "2026-06-03T00:37:49+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tumyjr/more_than_half_of_americans_are_not_financially/opfaj93/", "content": "It’s because most Americans think education of any kind is liberal. When politicians politicize education, it just hurts the populace." }, { "id": "t1_opfkmj6", "author": "/u/Informal-Intention-5", "updated": "2026-06-03T01:35:01+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tumyjr/more_than_half_of_americans_are_not_financially/opfkmj6/", "content": "What’s it called when you are financially literate but still do stupid things? Because that’s me." }, { "id": "t1_opg57y9", "author": "/u/Necessary-Dog-7245", "updated": "2026-06-03T03:39:00+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tumyjr/more_than_half_of_americans_are_not_financially/opg57y9/", "content": "A fuck up?" }, { "id": "t1_opawyoj", "author": "/u/Harmonic-Hyena", "updated": "2026-06-02T12:04:03+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tumyjr/more_than_half_of_americans_are_not_financially/opawyoj/", "content": "You have not seen some of the posts here. While this community is definitely better than average, I still see some posts that make me question their financial decisions. We all make bad decisions from time to time though so I try to extend some grace. Progress goes not come from perfection but from minimizing mistakes." }, { "id": "t1_opazsfa", "author": "/u/Inevitable_Ad_5664", "updated": "2026-06-02T12:20:18+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tumyjr/more_than_half_of_americans_are_not_financially/opazsfa/", "content": "How could they be? We decimated home economics in high schools where things like writing checking, balancing accounts, purchasing goods and stocks (i remember every Friday being given a newspaper that listed stocks and prices. discussing fiscal responsibility and saving were taught (we would be given 10,000 fake dollars at the begining of school and invest based on what we had been learning. As an example)" }, { "id": "t1_opbo4mf", "author": "/u/Sea_Bear7754", "updated": "2026-06-02T14:23:41+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tumyjr/more_than_half_of_americans_are_not_financially/opbo4mf/", "content": "See I’m the opposite. My financial literacy class taught us how to balance accounts and write checks. 33 years old and I can confidently say I’ve never needed to balance accounts once and I’ve written 4 checks in my entire life.\n So what happened was no one listened because the information wasn’t relevant.\n Then as a public school teacher, our financial literacy class was taught by a math teacher who wasn’t financially literate at all and would complain about how much credit card debt she had. It was wild." }, { "id": "t1_opeh3k3", "author": "/u/Grim-Sleeper", "updated": "2026-06-02T21:58:10+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tumyjr/more_than_half_of_americans_are_not_financially/opeh3k3/", "content": "The last physical check that I wrote was stolen from USPS custody, washed, and deposited with an altered name. I now prefer wiring money, but I discovered that many consumer banks charge fees for incoming wires. Ouch.\n There is no universal option for sending arbitrary sums to arbitrary recipients without incurring charges or increasing risk" }, { "id": "t1_opb8jf9", "author": "/u/huangp2", "updated": "2026-06-02T13:07:47+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tumyjr/more_than_half_of_americans_are_not_financially/opb8jf9/", "content": "For some reason, I only remember cooking and sewing a badass hamburger in home economics in high school. I do kind of remember fake investing but didn’t think it was attributed to home ec specifically.. the memory is going fast. Better retire soon." }, { "id": "t1_opciy4k", "author": "/u/ToastBalancer", "updated": "2026-06-02T16:40:24+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tumyjr/more_than_half_of_americans_are_not_financially/opciy4k/", "content": "Because you can’t rely on everyone else to hold your hand and teach you when you can simply learn online very easily" }, { "id": "t1_opeib2d", "author": "/u/Grim-Sleeper", "updated": "2026-06-02T22:04:20+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tumyjr/more_than_half_of_americans_are_not_financially/opeib2d/", "content": "My kids' have the best teachers to teach them about financial literacy. "Whatever the teachers say, do the exact opposite". This guideline has proven incredibly reliable whenever we discuss financial topics with our kids.\n I am genuinely impressed with my middle schooler for noticing the amount of genuinely horrible financial advice that their teachers regularly give to the students.\n As far as I can tell, to most of the adults at the school, money is a very emotional concept and finances can only be planned by considering the intent and emotional framework of the person receiving/spending the money. The idea that money is ultimately fungible and financial planning comes down to a math problem is an entirely foreign concept that the teachers actively fight against." }, { "id": "t1_opb1vh8", "author": "/u/Bryanmsi89", "updated": "2026-06-02T12:32:08+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tumyjr/more_than_half_of_americans_are_not_financially/opb1vh8/", "content": "Ii am honestly surprised it is nearly 50%. I would have exoected it to be lower. This topic isn't taught in schools or university, and most families fail to teach it to their children." }, { "id": "t1_opbaw59", "author": "/u/smithsapam", "updated": "2026-06-02T13:19:40+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tumyjr/more_than_half_of_americans_are_not_financially/opbaw59/", "content": "I think very few are truly financially literate, less than 20% of the general population. I’ve got family members that have no debts, spend wisely, and save but they keep everything in cash. Literally, cash in an envelope in the freezer, or piled a mile high in a savings account earning a fraction of inflation. Theyre afraid of credit cards or investing in anything that isnt a CD. I wouldnt say they are financially literate even though theyre financially stable." }, { "id": "t1_opblkkt", "author": "/u/QuesoChef", "updated": "2026-06-02T14:11:46+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tumyjr/more_than_half_of_americans_are_not_financially/opblkkt/", "content": "I don’t think risk averse means illiterate. Some people are just insanely low risk by nature. I’m not that way and neither is my family. However, some of my dad’s siblings (raised by parents who survived the depression) keep several months of cash in a safe in their homes. My parents don’t do that. But these siblings have waaaay more money than my parents. And they also invest heavily in the stock market. It’s just a matter of what allows you to sleep at night.\n I do wish there were a different, more separated avenue for low risk investing that’s not at bank, but I’ve worked in banking my whole life. Though I’m still not sure they’d use it. These folks in mostly CDs have found a system that works for them and they’re doing fine. They’re aware of the stock market, and seem to understand it, they’d just rather have a smooth path than a bumpy one, even if the bumpy one has a better long term outcome." }, { "id": "t1_opbwl36", "author": "/u/smithsapam", "updated": "2026-06-02T15:02:16+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tumyjr/more_than_half_of_americans_are_not_financially/opbwl36/", "content": "It would fall under illiterate in this case because they don’t understand how to manage and navigate the various levers within the financial markets to better their positions. So their response is to be extremely financially conservative, due to a lack of understanding." }, { "id": "t1_opc9drq", "author": "/u/QuesoChef", "updated": "2026-06-02T15:58:33+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tumyjr/more_than_half_of_americans_are_not_financially/opc9drq/", "content": "We’ll definitely have to agree to disagree on this. There are many paths to financial freedom. Doesn’t matter if it’s slower, they still know what they’re doing and comfortable with." }, { "id": "t1_opcilug", "author": "/u/smithsapam", "updated": "2026-06-02T16:38:55+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tumyjr/more_than_half_of_americans_are_not_financially/opcilug/", "content": "This is the FIRE subreddit. You’re moving the goal post. The topic is financial literacy, not whether they can retire someday. Big difference." }, { "id": "t1_opcpv01", "author": "/u/QuesoChef", "updated": "2026-06-02T17:10:27+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tumyjr/more_than_half_of_americans_are_not_financially/opcpv01/", "content": "What? That’s absurd. You can be financially literate without following FIRE.\n Ha. Blocked me. Here’s my reply to below:\n Ok, that’s fine. You’re being super specific. I am being very general. I can agree specifically on those people I don’t know. I still disagree, generally. I have worked in banking and finance my whole life. Plenty of very smart people are conservative, fiscally." }, { "id": "t1_opdpn4z", "author": "/u/smithsapam", "updated": "2026-06-02T19:48:24+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tumyjr/more_than_half_of_americans_are_not_financially/opdpn4z/", "content": "You don’t know these people, I do. They’re fiscally conservative due to a lack of financial literacy. It’s not an opinion, it is a simple fact. There is no debate because you don’t know these people." }, { "id": "t1_opbwfxp", "author": "/u/mr---jones", "updated": "2026-06-02T15:01:37+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tumyjr/more_than_half_of_americans_are_not_financially/opbwfxp/", "content": "Yup. This is how you end up with subreddits like r/salary overrun with people saying you cannot live earning 80k/yr. They just don’t understand how to budget." }, { "id": "t1_opbzow6", "author": "/u/Puzzleheaded-Score58", "updated": "2026-06-02T15:16:09+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tumyjr/more_than_half_of_americans_are_not_financially/opbzow6/", "content": "I mean more than half of Americans are functionally illiterate period. Did you actually expect any different financially?" }, { "id": "t1_opcw9fe", "author": "/u/Krangmang87", "updated": "2026-06-02T17:38:08+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tumyjr/more_than_half_of_americans_are_not_financially/opcw9fe/", "content": "By design, don’t ever forget that.\n Someone CHOSE to not teach this stuff, that it wasn’t important.\n Wonder what they were motivated by?" }, { "id": "t1_opecm3v", "author": "/u/Walmart-Shopper-22", "updated": "2026-06-02T21:35:47+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tumyjr/more_than_half_of_americans_are_not_financially/opecm3v/", "content": "I'm not sure that half of Americans are "literate"." }, { "id": "t1_opanr08", "author": "/u/brianmcg321", "updated": "2026-06-02T11:05:30+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tumyjr/more_than_half_of_americans_are_not_financially/opanr08/", "content": "What’s worse is that most of the illiterate post in this sub and all the other personal finance subs acting like experts." }, { "id": "t1_oparyav", "author": "/u/someguy984", "updated": "2026-06-02T11:33:25+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tumyjr/more_than_half_of_americans_are_not_financially/oparyav/", "content": "Good, they keep the system going." }, { "id": "t1_opavfos", "author": "/u/bunrieu4BLD", "updated": "2026-06-02T11:55:00+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tumyjr/more_than_half_of_americans_are_not_financially/opavfos/", "content": "seriously. imagine a world where everyone is financially literate. we'd be nickel and dimed over random fees "just cause" on everything because idiots won't be signing up for 96 month auto loans at 19.99% APR" }, { "id": "t1_opbubvi", "author": "/u/snaketacular", "updated": "2026-06-02T14:52:06+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tumyjr/more_than_half_of_americans_are_not_financially/opbubvi/", "content": "That's my secret, Cap ... we get nickel and dimed anyway." }, { "id": "t1_opat17j", "author": "/u/Brostradamus-2", "updated": "2026-06-02T11:40:15+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tumyjr/more_than_half_of_americans_are_not_financially/opat17j/", "content": "More than half of Americans deserve what they have earned for themselves..." }, { "id": "t1_opavkdn", "author": "", "updated": "2026-06-02T11:55:46+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tumyjr/more_than_half_of_americans_are_not_financially/opavkdn/", "content": "[deleted]" }, { "id": "t1_opayv0i", "author": "/u/Zphr", "updated": "2026-06-02T12:15:04+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tumyjr/more_than_half_of_americans_are_not_financially/opayv0i/", "content": "Rule 7/No Politics or circle-jerks - Your submission has been removed for violating our community rule against politics and circle-jerks. If you feel this removal is in error, then please modmail the mod team. Please review our community rules to help avoid future violations." }, { "id": "t1_opayx5j", "author": "/u/Primary_Excuse_7183", "updated": "2026-06-02T12:15:23+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tumyjr/more_than_half_of_americans_are_not_financially/opayx5j/", "content": "Count me shocked" }, { "id": "t1_opazhpq", "author": "/u/doinmy_best", "updated": "2026-06-02T12:18:37+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tumyjr/more_than_half_of_americans_are_not_financially/opazhpq/", "content": "Seems not interesting to me, cycles of poverty and sticking to the lifestyle you know and all. Like financial literacy is correlated with financial wealth obviously but necessarily the cause.\n I would be more interested in a study based on the hypothesis that improving someone’s financial literacy lead to an improvement in wealth. It seems like an obvious yes but also it takes money to make money and sometimes being more aware of your struggle leads to blissful Ignorance.\n I would also like to only look at single people and see how it changes. It says women are more likely to have love financial literacy. Well this may be cultural or region or generational or class specific but many men control the finance (or give that role) so women know very little about their income spending and wealth." }, { "id": "t1_opb4j1x", "author": "/u/Ok-Energy-9785", "updated": "2026-06-02T12:46:42+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tumyjr/more_than_half_of_americans_are_not_financially/opb4j1x/", "content": "It's ironically a good thing" }, { "id": "t1_opb9vq0", "author": "/u/howardbagel", "updated": "2026-06-02T13:14:36+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tumyjr/more_than_half_of_americans_are_not_financially/opb9vq0/", "content": "More than half of Americans are not literate" }, { "id": "t1_opbbkrp", "author": "/u/ALAS_POOR_YORICK_LOL", "updated": "2026-06-02T13:23:04+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tumyjr/more_than_half_of_americans_are_not_financially/opbbkrp/", "content": "If you doubt this, just read reddit" }, { "id": "t1_opbczpn", "author": "/u/wineguy7113", "updated": "2026-06-02T13:30:05+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tumyjr/more_than_half_of_americans_are_not_financially/opbczpn/", "content": "Obviously. It explains much of what is going on today." }, { "id": "t1_opbjog9", "author": "/u/FinancialFreedomDoc", "updated": "2026-06-02T14:02:44+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tumyjr/more_than_half_of_americans_are_not_financially/opbjog9/", "content": "It’s horrifying.\n Nobody talks about money, but Im building a personal finance tool so I asked friends/family if they ever used any budget and/or retirement apps to be sure I’m building what people need.\n Not only did most not budget, but they didn’t know about the pitfalls of retirement if you’re not planning carefully. Even those who do well are setting themselves up for a tax bomb.\n This is why advisors are so successful but many do not have complicated enough situations to justify one, they just need better tools and education which I hope to help solve." }, { "id": "t1_opbmlyk", "author": "/u/Regular-Employer-431", "updated": "2026-06-02T14:16:40+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tumyjr/more_than_half_of_americans_are_not_financially/opbmlyk/", "content": "Way over half!" }, { "id": "t1_opc7vz8", "author": "/u/HobartTasmania", "updated": "2026-06-02T15:52:06+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tumyjr/more_than_half_of_americans_are_not_financially/opc7vz8/", "content": "Wilkins Micawber;\n "Annual income twenty pounds, annual expenditure nineteen pounds nineteen and six, result happiness."\n "Annual income twenty pounds, annual expenditure twenty pounds nought and six, result misery."\n You do not really need to know anything more than this." }, { "id": "t1_opcd2qt", "author": "/u/Witwer52", "updated": "2026-06-02T16:14:40+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tumyjr/more_than_half_of_americans_are_not_financially/opcd2qt/", "content": "Half of them are also just plain illiterate." }, { "id": "t1_opcf94l", "author": "/u/OneImportance4061", "updated": "2026-06-02T16:24:12+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tumyjr/more_than_half_of_americans_are_not_financially/opcf94l/", "content": "I got 8/8 surprisingly but I did scratch my head on two of them and wondered if I was answering correctly." }, { "id": "t1_opcjbby", "author": "/u/Atreyu1002", "updated": "2026-06-02T16:41:59+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tumyjr/more_than_half_of_americans_are_not_financially/opcjbby/", "content": "This is by design. The tax code / financial system is complicated on purpose because this is how they steal wealth. It hides their crime, and takes resources most of us don't have to sift through the mess. If 100% of americans were financially literate, they'd all vote to change the system immediately." }, { "id": "t1_opegfv8", "author": "/u/Grim-Sleeper", "updated": "2026-06-02T21:54:50+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tumyjr/more_than_half_of_americans_are_not_financially/opegfv8/", "content": "This is objectively wrong. Both the tax code and the financial system are admittedly huge, and they deal with tons of obscure edge cases. But none of that matters for 99% of the population. The aspects that are important to know are so basic that you can quite literally teach middle schoolers.\n There are a handful of very simple ideas that you need to understand to know how to invest money, how to save for retirement, how to avoid making unforced financial errors, and how to file your taxes.\n The vast majority of odd corner cases simply don't even apply to most tax payers. And if they happen to apply to you, then you can read up; at that point, having a firm grasp of the basics is going to make things so much easier." }, { "id": "t1_opesgd4", "author": "/u/Atreyu1002", "updated": "2026-06-02T22:57:18+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tumyjr/more_than_half_of_americans_are_not_financially/opesgd4/", "content": "I'm not special, I have a decent job and a kid, and the mount of bullshit I have to think about in terms of investment and taxes (401k, roth, 529, Depende Care FSA, HSA, etc etc etc) is fucking infuriating. There are timelines and deadlines for all this shit. It's all a mental burden. Most of my peers aren't aware of this stuff. The fact that you have to dig to take advantage of it is by design. They tax you mentally so you don't have the time to realize the schenanegans they are up to." }, { "id": "t1_opfn7ta", "author": "/u/Grim-Sleeper", "updated": "2026-06-03T01:49:56+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tumyjr/more_than_half_of_americans_are_not_financially/opfn7ta/", "content": "You're way overthinking this. With a brief websearch you can find flowcharts telling you in which order to fund different accounts for maximum efficiency. And if you are eligible for these accounts, HR should inform you about deadlines. But more importantly, you aren't making a huge mistake if you don't follow the perfect order. It's going to be fine. Take a deep breath. Deciding between a 401k and a Roth IRA is a micro-optimization. Heck, even if you skip all the retirement accounts and stuck your money into a brokerage account, that wouldn't be the worst mistake.\n If you are aware of the fact that there are tax-advantaged accounts, then you know 90% of what you need to know. Save/invest as much as you can, and you are doing good. If you want to eek out the last few percentage points, then more power to you; that doesn't hurt, but it is a lot less important than funding these accounts in the first place. I am surprised I even need to mention that in this sub, as that's more of the type of conversation you'd see in the PF sub.\n You are correct that there are some accounts that have caveats though.\n The most common one to encounter would be a traditional FSA (not the dependant care FSA that you mentioned) and an HSA. There also is some fine-print about being in the correct income bracket to even be able to make (Roth) IRA contributions. There should be a lot of warning messages that will stop you from accidentally making this mistake, but if you do anyway, my previous advice holds. Take a deep breath and move on. These mistakes can be fixed. It's a momentary nuisance, and then next time you know you are one of the people who have a slightly more difficult financial situation that requires a small amount of extra attention. On the whole, that's a good problem to have as it means you actually have significant investable assets.\n This also isn't really anything you need to worry about on a daily basis. It's (almost) entirely set-and-forget. You set this up once, and then you review your choices every few years or whenever you get a pay raise." }, { "id": "t1_opcsy60", "author": "/u/Mario-X777", "updated": "2026-06-02T17:23:52+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tumyjr/more_than_half_of_americans_are_not_financially/opcsy60/", "content": "Nonsense. Taxes are pretty simple, if you are paying fair and not looking for loopholes to cheat.\n Same with information - it only depends on motivation, there is a ton of information, free access. But if people are lazy, you cannot force them. Plus it is similar as with health - people do get concerned only when they get sick or in pain, nobody wants to put effort proactively, ahead of time when it is to late" }, { "id": "t1_opd49ll", "author": "/u/Remarkable-FlipPhone", "updated": "2026-06-02T18:12:40+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tumyjr/more_than_half_of_americans_are_not_financially/opd49ll/", "content": "Ya we know. It’s painfully obvious." }, { "id": "t1_opdehhv", "author": "/u/tapwater86", "updated": "2026-06-02T18:57:35+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tumyjr/more_than_half_of_americans_are_not_financially/opdehhv/", "content": "I’d wager more than half aren’t literate in general" }, { "id": "t1_opdq0h0", "author": "/u/Topaz_11", "updated": "2026-06-02T19:50:05+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tumyjr/more_than_half_of_americans_are_not_financially/opdq0h0/", "content": "How can you have financial literacy when - last time I looked - about 20% of adults are functionally illiterate and about 55% are below a 6th grad literacy level." }, { "id": "t1_opdqdf0", "author": "/u/Commercial_Rule_7823", "updated": "2026-06-02T19:51:44+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tumyjr/more_than_half_of_americans_are_not_financially/opdqdf0/", "content": "Im shocked.\n I would have guessed 80% +" }, { "id": "t1_opdv2nk", "author": "/u/skookumme", "updated": "2026-06-02T20:13:21+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tumyjr/more_than_half_of_americans_are_not_financially/opdv2nk/", "content": "Wait until you find out about the literacy rates" }, { "id": "t1_ope0yrj", "author": "/u/ProPatternNoticer", "updated": "2026-06-02T20:40:23+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tumyjr/more_than_half_of_americans_are_not_financially/ope0yrj/", "content": "More like 90%" }, { "id": "t1_ope3b8r", "author": "/u/Responsible_Sea78", "updated": "2026-06-02T20:51:11+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tumyjr/more_than_half_of_americans_are_not_financially/ope3b8r/", "content": "Let's spare a second to thank gamblers for their gifts to the rest of us, also." }, { "id": "t1_opeqqyl", "author": "/u/Singularity-42", "updated": "2026-06-02T22:48:14+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tumyjr/more_than_half_of_americans_are_not_financially/opeqqyl/", "content": "And it's worse it many other countries." }, { "id": "t1_opestp9", "author": "/u/SignificantFail3632", "updated": "2026-06-02T22:59:16+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tumyjr/more_than_half_of_americans_are_not_financially/opestp9/", "content": "My financial emergency plan? Bold of you to assume I plan on living past retirement age.." }, { "id": "t1_opfqjnx", "author": "/u/sjlopez", "updated": "2026-06-03T02:08:57+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tumyjr/more_than_half_of_americans_are_not_financially/opfqjnx/", "content": "Who needs a SWR when you can just die instead?" }, { "id": "t1_opeu3i7", "author": "/u/cowboynude", "updated": "2026-06-02T23:06:10+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tumyjr/more_than_half_of_americans_are_not_financially/opeu3i7/", "content": "Exactly one half of my marriage is financially literate too (it’s the half that directs the Roth)." }, { "id": "t1_opezyvp", "author": "/u/253-build", "updated": "2026-06-02T23:38:17+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tumyjr/more_than_half_of_americans_are_not_financially/opezyvp/", "content": "It's intentional." }, { "id": "t1_opfrf9v", "author": "/u/Axerin", "updated": "2026-06-03T02:14:00+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tumyjr/more_than_half_of_americans_are_not_financially/opfrf9v/", "content": "For a good chunck of them you can drop the "financial" part and it will still hold true." }, { "id": "t1_opfvl1n", "author": "/u/DiploJ", "updated": "2026-06-03T02:38:13+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tumyjr/more_than_half_of_americans_are_not_financially/opfvl1n/", "content": "Literate." }, { "id": "t1_opfvs7m", "author": "/u/tribriguy", "updated": "2026-06-03T02:39:22+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tumyjr/more_than_half_of_americans_are_not_financially/opfvs7m/", "content": "And yet, so many of them are convince socialism is our ticket to freedom." }, { "id": "t1_opfwo70", "author": "/u/Cars_Music_GoodTimes", "updated": "2026-06-03T02:44:40+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tumyjr/more_than_half_of_americans_are_not_financially/opfwo70/", "content": "50% of Americans are below average intelligence" }, { "id": "t1_opg0gwz", "author": "/u/Junior-Valuable2071", "updated": "2026-06-03T03:07:58+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tumyjr/more_than_half_of_americans_are_not_financially/opg0gwz/", "content": "I have a hard time fathoming this with how inundated I am with financial news and financial influencers preaching about Roth IRAs and buying and holding VOO.\n But idk I suppose everyone has their own internet bubble." }, { "id": "t1_opg1uuv", "author": "/u/Raz0r-", "updated": "2026-06-03T03:16:55+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tumyjr/more_than_half_of_americans_are_not_financially/opg1uuv/", "content": "You are quoting a republished article. The content is from May 2025. It’s a survey of ~3k people that is somehow extrapolated to cover ~300M+ people… 💩📋" }, { "id": "t1_opghfak", "author": "/u/Bob-Ross74", "updated": "2026-06-03T05:03:57+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tumyjr/more_than_half_of_americans_are_not_financially/opghfak/", "content": "That’s…how surveys work? You can’t poll all 300 million so you take a respective sample. Are you arguing the sample size is too small?" }, { "id": "t1_opg48pl", "author": "/u/Pitiful-Recover-3747", "updated": "2026-06-03T03:32:29+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tumyjr/more_than_half_of_americans_are_not_financially/opg48pl/", "content": "More than half of Americans are not functionally literate past the 6th grade. Period." }, { "id": "t1_opg5tj8", "author": "/u/TowerStreet1", "updated": "2026-06-03T03:42:58+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tumyjr/more_than_half_of_americans_are_not_financially/opg5tj8/", "content": "More than half Americans are not literate in (add any random subject, topic)" }, { "id": "t1_opga3gx", "author": "/u/HealingDailyy", "updated": "2026-06-03T04:11:41+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tumyjr/more_than_half_of_americans_are_not_financially/opga3gx/", "content": "Me: I don’t understand why people don’t invest in index funds Half of America: I don’t fund any company called index, I am an employee" }, { "id": "t1_opgajwq", "author": "/u/Aggravating_Owl_5768", "updated": "2026-06-03T04:14:48+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tumyjr/more_than_half_of_americans_are_not_financially/opgajwq/", "content": "World percentage is probably 95%." }, { "id": "t1_opge3gt", "author": "/u/Lucifer_GodOfDeath", "updated": "2026-06-03T04:39:50+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tumyjr/more_than_half_of_americans_are_not_financially/opge3gt/", "content": "There’s a reason why US is becoming a K-shaped economy in the recent past. The war just brought everything in the open" }, { "id": "t1_opb0pk6", "author": "/u/Any-Concentrate-1922", "updated": "2026-06-02T12:25:34+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tumyjr/more_than_half_of_americans_are_not_financially/opb0pk6/", "content": "Why would they be? They don't teach it in school." }, { "id": "t1_opb3sa8", "author": "/u/BatMiserable9061", "updated": "2026-06-02T12:42:42+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tumyjr/more_than_half_of_americans_are_not_financially/opb3sa8/", "content": "50% is way too generous of a number." }, { "id": "t1_opb41nn", "author": "/u/BatMiserable9061", "updated": "2026-06-02T12:44:07+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tumyjr/more_than_half_of_americans_are_not_financially/opb41nn/", "content": "I tell myself all the time I’ve done better in life partially thanks to this same pool of folks we call financially illiterate." }, { "id": "t1_opb8tt7", "author": "/u/TheHulkingBoomer", "updated": "2026-06-02T13:09:15+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tumyjr/more_than_half_of_americans_are_not_financially/opb8tt7/", "content": "Survey's garbage but the observation stands. Most people don't know compound interest, carry credit card debt, chase meme stocks. FIRE community's small because financial discipline actually requires work. Easier to blame the system than learn." }, { "id": "t1_opb8zbm", "author": "/u/thunderbird4_Nemo", "updated": "2026-06-02T13:10:02+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tumyjr/more_than_half_of_americans_are_not_financially/opb8zbm/", "content": "We were set up For failure when Rockefeller decided to take over what schools teach." }, { "id": "t1_opbjuxh", "author": "/u/QuesoChef", "updated": "2026-06-02T14:03:37+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tumyjr/more_than_half_of_americans_are_not_financially/opbjuxh/", "content": "There’s a reason most banks and credit unions are marketing financial literacy and health right now. The problem is, while many people struggle who could be in a much healthier position (not discounting those who are doing their best and there’s just not enough, as that subset exists), it’s like weight loss/physical health.\n There are people who have good genes (in financial terms, born rich), those who enjoy working out and prefer healthy food (those are the people in this sub or who get a buzz off of saving versus the opposite), those who hate exercise and eating but do it because they know they must (this is the subset I respect most in both financial and physical health), those who want to do better but have a hard time with willpower, and those who tell themselves they’re doomed, and the final set who says “fuck it, YOLO.”\n I consider myself in the second group for finances. I genuinely enjoy saving, get a buzz off of it, and am not super spending/having-motivated. I’m very practical and naturally frugal in a way I don’t feel like I’m missing anything.\n I’m between the enjoys working out (I do) but feels miserable and deprived eating healthy (I truly enjoy the worst foods like pizza and fries and chips), but I know I need to do it for my health. And I push really hard but plenty of days I’ll say “eh, whatever, it’s too hard” and will eat like crap for a week or two then get back on the wagon.\n So I can admit I’m in a subset that financial health feels easy (and not because of literacy), but physical health is a full uphill slog through the mud in pelting golf ball sized hail when it comes to food. Exercise is more like a reallllly long walk in sweltering heat and humidity with no water, but it feels good to get back in the AC at the end.\n So it’s not only about literacy. There’s also some brain chemistry stuff going on. I do think the literacy gets those folks in the middle to slog up the hill, though.\n And I say leave those who don’t want to do it at all alone. When they’re ready, they’ll come around. Until then, I say we focus on the middle. How can it be more supported and accessible? How do you bring celebration that motivates continuing the fight when you hate it?" }, { "id": "t1_opcxkjk", "author": "/u/DeadFacesInMyPocket", "updated": "2026-06-02T17:43:47+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tumyjr/more_than_half_of_americans_are_not_financially/opcxkjk/", "content": "These questions are pretty stupid. Really the questions would have been better off just asking things like:\n\n- "Do you have a savings account? Do you have an HYSA? Do you know what an HYSA is?"\n\n- "Do you have a brokerage account? Do you know the difference between an index fund, ETF, and a specific stock?"\n\n- "Do you have a Roth IRA? Do you know what a Roth IRA is? If you had to withdraw contributions from a Roth IRA, what are the tax implications based on timing?"\n\n- "How often do you review your overall financial state? Do you discuss this with your spouse or long term partner (if applicable)?"\n\n- "Do you know what your net worth is (specify whether you are including or excluding your home value)?"\n\n- "Do you know your credit score? How often do you monitor it?"\n Seriously this article was a pile of crap and far too subjective regarding the results." }, { "id": "t1_opdvl68", "author": "/u/Psynaut", "updated": "2026-06-02T20:15:41+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tumyjr/more_than_half_of_americans_are_not_financially/opdvl68/", "content": "More than half of Americans are not f inancially literate\n And its worse on Reddit." }, { "id": "t1_opbupdq", "author": "/u/mechanicalhorizon", "updated": "2026-06-02T14:53:46+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tumyjr/more_than_half_of_americans_are_not_financially/opbupdq/", "content": "I'm 53 and don't know shit about saving or investing. Or finance at all.\n I never made enough money to not have to live paycheck-to-paycheck.\n Since I'll never be able to retire, at this point I don't even think it's worth bothering with." } ] }, { "source": "r/Fire hot", "id": "t3_1tv5kbf", "title": "I moved my FIRE date so I can retire 2 years sooner", "author": "/u/PedalMonk", "updated": "2026-06-02T21:57:36+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tv5kbf/i_moved_my_fire_date_so_i_can_retire_2_years/", "content": "We always hear about people pushing it down the road, just another year, etc...but I am so done. My spouse(56F) and I(54M) are ready! Our original date was Jan 2030, but after the most recent layoffs at my work and watching a friend struggle through laying off his entire team (5 people) and deciding to leave himself, I've changed my thinking.\n Our new goal is Jan 2028. For anyone counting, that is 1.61 Years, 19 Months, 587 Days.\n Of course, the market being insane has me a bit worried about the next correction, but we should hopefully have 300K liquid (183K now) when we FIRE, which should help weather sequence risk and market downturns.\n Honestly, the older I get, the more I realize I don't want to waste anymore time working for the man.\n Do we have enough? I have a milestone goal, but if we are close enough, that works too. We are about 450K away from meeting our mile stone goal, which I think is doable with a little luck from the market. But who knows.\n I'm currently seeing 17.5% YTD with contributions, but only planning for 9.5%/year. Even at 7% it's close enough\n submitted by /u/PedalMonk\n [link] [comments]", "contentHtml": "

We always hear about people pushing it down the road, just another year, etc...but I am so done. My spouse(56F) and I(54M) are ready! Our original date was Jan 2030, but after the most recent layoffs at my work and watching a friend struggle through laying off his entire team (5 people) and deciding to leave himself, I've changed my thinking.

Our new goal is Jan 2028. For anyone counting, that is 1.61 Years, 19 Months, 587 Days.

Of course, the market being insane has me a bit worried about the next correction, but we should hopefully have 300K liquid (183K now) when we FIRE, which should help weather sequence risk and market downturns.

Honestly, the older I get, the more I realize I don't want to waste anymore time working for the man.

Do we have enough? I have a milestone goal, but if we are close enough, that works too. We are about 450K away from meeting our mile stone goal, which I think is doable with a little luck from the market. But who knows.

I'm currently seeing 17.5% YTD with contributions, but only planning for 9.5%/year. Even at 7% it's close enough

submitted by /u/PedalMonk
[link] [comments]", "comments": [ { "id": "t1_opei1vx", "author": "/u/Nuclear_N", "updated": "2026-06-02T22:03:00+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tv5kbf/i_moved_my_fire_date_so_i_can_retire_2_years/opei1vx/", "content": "I have been so done for five years….but holding on for that retirement health insurance….which is 158 days away." }, { "id": "t1_opensai", "author": "/u/PedalMonk", "updated": "2026-06-02T22:32:35+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tv5kbf/i_moved_my_fire_date_so_i_can_retire_2_years/opensai/", "content": "yeah, the ACA route is complicated. I'm not looking forward to it, but this is the path I must take to retire early." }, { "id": "t1_opg7gvg", "author": "/u/Monsignor1979", "updated": "2026-06-03T03:53:54+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tv5kbf/i_moved_my_fire_date_so_i_can_retire_2_years/opg7gvg/", "content": "What's complicated about it? You determine how much your withdrawal rate is going to be, determine your MAGI based on that withdrawal rate, enter that amount into the Marketplace and pick the insurance you want. It tells you what you can expect to pay for monthly premiums right there." }, { "id": "t1_opgasvf", "author": "/u/Future-looker1996", "updated": "2026-06-03T04:16:32+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tv5kbf/i_moved_my_fire_date_so_i_can_retire_2_years/opgasvf/", "content": "Think at higher spend levels it can be more challenging, maybe the case for op (no idea)." }, { "id": "t1_opgc0of", "author": "/u/Monsignor1979", "updated": "2026-06-03T04:25:01+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tv5kbf/i_moved_my_fire_date_so_i_can_retire_2_years/opgc0of/", "content": "The only difference between someone with a lower spending level, than a higher spending level is the amount of subsidies you qualify for. This is why they ask for your MAGI, to make that determination.\n If anything, if you plan on having a hefty withdrawal rate ($120,000-ish or more), you're probably not going to be able to qualify for any subsidies. That actually makes the process even easier.\n Again, you literally put in your income, and shop the plans. Bronze plans cover less but cost less, Gold plans cover more, but cost more. It depends on what you are looking for. And the premiums are listed right there (with or without qualified subsidies) and the benefits for each plan our literally one click away.\n You can't geek out over something like FI/RE and then in the same breath say the ACA Marketplace is 'complicated'. If you can FIRE, you can fill out an application for the ACA Marketplace. Hell, if you've ever done an open enrollment through an employer, it's not much different than that. It isn't rocket science by any means and it sure as hell isn't 'complicated'.\n EDIT: I'm just gonna add in here, that anyone can do this right now whether you are retiring tomorrow, next year or in ten years. It's a good idea to frequently check what you qualify for and how much it will cost you to cover healthcare before medicare kicks in at 65.\n Just go to healthcare.gov and shop around. You don't need any personal information about yourself to browse the plans and premiums. Select 'Browse Plans and Costs' and you just have to enter some basic information to get the premium costs. You can even adjust your income up and down on the fly to compare rates to give you a better idea on how to balance your withdrawal rates.\n Avoid anything but the government website for the ACA. The other sites are scams." }, { "id": "t1_opgh149", "author": "/u/PedalMonk", "updated": "2026-06-03T05:01:00+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tv5kbf/i_moved_my_fire_date_so_i_can_retire_2_years/opgh149/", "content": "Well, I can't speak for anybody else, but yes, I will be pulling 120K/year. That means I need to figure out how to keep my MAGI below 106.6K/year (ACA subsidies for 3). To do that, you need multiple buckets in the liquid cash category, plus juggle roth conversions + decide how much to pull out of pre-tax, and I haven't even talked about if I run out of liquid funds before 65.\n Trust me when I say I've spent years looking at this and it is a nightmare. I have even built my own FIRE calc that includes subsidies, roth conversions, and much much more. It's basically a clone of Boldin but with my slant.\n I've looked at my ACA website for many years have calculated hundreds of what if scenarios. When you are spending more than the subsidy limit, you have to get really creative. In some cases, it might be better off to just do roth conversions and pay full amount for ACA.\n On top of all of this, I have to keep it up for 7-9 years depending on when I FIRE.\n So no, it's not just as easy as pulling up healthcare.gov and punching in your numbers. That's just a small part of it that is the easiest part, the rest is hard." }, { "id": "t1_opgmfku", "author": "/u/Nuclear_N", "updated": "2026-06-03T05:41:52+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tv5kbf/i_moved_my_fire_date_so_i_can_retire_2_years/opgmfku/", "content": "I came to conclusion to convert the Roth Aggressively early and keep the taxable income low even with SSI and pension." }, { "id": "t1_opgj1kl", "author": "/u/Monsignor1979", "updated": "2026-06-03T05:15:58+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tv5kbf/i_moved_my_fire_date_so_i_can_retire_2_years/opgj1kl/", "content": "I think you're still in FIRE mode, and that's a problem for a lot of us. You're over analyzing it all and you probably shouldn't.\n If I enter in a MAGI of $120,000, I have to pay $2000 a month for a Gold Elite plan for the wife and I ($0 deductible), probably the best plan available to us.\n Or the wife and I can work some part time jobs of our choosing, make $30,000, and pull $60,000 from our ROTH every year to maintain a $30,000 MAGI dropping our premiums to about $1,000 a month.\n So, Plan A: Live off of $120,000 a year, no more jobs and pay $24,000 a year in medical premiums.\n Or Plan B: Live off of only $90,000 a year, still work part time, and pay just $12,000 a year in medical premiums.\n The difference is only $12,000 a year in premiums and vastly two different lifestyles. If $12,000 is gonna make or break you at this point, perhaps you're not ready to retire, at least not this early.\n You're still pinching pennies. If you intend on pulling $120,000 a year, then I'd venture to say you have a few million dollars in liquid assets available to you. Doing all this dancing just to save $10,000-$20,000 a year seems unnecessary. Especially when that cost is only temporary (until medicare kicks in)." }, { "id": "t1_opgl6bq", "author": "/u/PedalMonk", "updated": "2026-06-03T05:32:10+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tv5kbf/i_moved_my_fire_date_so_i_can_retire_2_years/opgl6bq/", "content": "while I appreciate what you are saying, i think you are missing a few pieces.\n First, I live in CA, so 120K isn't that much money. Even though I might spend 120K, the point is to only get taxed on 106.6k or less so I can save 20K+ year. I will still spend 120K, but it will look like less than 106K to get the subsidy.\n Furthermore, there are other plans/options you and most people don't know about. I can get a bronze plan for $0/month, with an up front 14K deductible. That entire 14K deductible can be paid for with HSA. That's huge! Compare that to a gold plan which I would have to pay $900/month with non-HSA money + it could balloon to 28K+ in a worst case scenario.\n So, your plan A isn't really a plan, it's just take out 120K and pay 24K. My plan A is to take out 120K, but have a MAGI of 106K or less and only pay 14K, while also doing roth conversions until 65.\n Plan B is not an option for me." }, { "id": "t1_opgnujc", "author": "/u/Monsignor1979", "updated": "2026-06-03T05:52:46+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tv5kbf/i_moved_my_fire_date_so_i_can_retire_2_years/opgnujc/", "content": "Your number crunching is completely valid to me and I 100% get what you are trying to say and do. After all, there is more than one way to skin a cat.\n I just don't intend on dealing with that level of depth to save what would be a nominal amount of money for us.\n I'm keeping it pretty simple. If my premiums (worst case scenario) are going to be $24,000 a year, I just figure that into my FI number every year. So, if I intended to withdraw $100,000 a year, then I would need $3.1 million dollars to safely retire (124k X 25).\n The best part, is that I would only have to pay those premiums for about 10 years (until 65), so even in this case, I'd be over-saving in the long run. It literally means when I hit 65, I get a $24,000 bump in pay. It's all figured into the FI number.\n Now, come the time I need to pick something from the Marketplace, If I can sit down and factor in everything from HSAs and deductibles, to maximum out of pocket limits in order to save a few thousand over each year, then fine, I'll do it. But, I'm not gonna break my balls for the extra $400 I could save by shuffling money all over the place or order to take advantage of every single tax loophole to ever exist. That sounds exhausting to me. And based on everything you've said up until this point, no wonder you're overwhelmed.\n I'm not gonna do all that. The point of retirement is to keep it simple and enjoy life. Convenience does have a price and, not only am I willing to pay it, I've saved up enough to take advantage of it. Someone like you might think that's being wasteful, but to me waste is subjective at this point. When some people retire, they will spend large sums of money on a dream car, or a vacation home, or a collection they've always wanted to have. I'll choose to spend my money on convenience and a low stress retirement. That's what my retirement looks like to me.\n Obviously, everyone's retirement looks different. And it needs to fit your personality. So, I'm not shitting all over you. It just isn't for me. The point I was trying to make is that selecting a healthcare plan doesn't have to be complicated, and that's the cold hard truth. But like a lot of things in life, some people have no issues taking a simple thing and making it complicated (case in point). If that is what brings you peace, then who am I to tell you it's silly?\n For me it's simple. I didn't work so hard for so long pinching pennies, just to pinch pennies for the rest of my life." }, { "id": "t1_opgh3px", "author": "/u/PedalMonk", "updated": "2026-06-03T05:01:32+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tv5kbf/i_moved_my_fire_date_so_i_can_retire_2_years/opgh3px/", "content": "You are correct, see my reply below." }, { "id": "t1_opf8s1e", "author": "/u/AndyTheEngr", "updated": "2026-06-03T00:27:45+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tv5kbf/i_moved_my_fire_date_so_i_can_retire_2_years/opf8s1e/", "content": "Mine is eight days away!" }, { "id": "t1_opej0wo", "author": "/u/WaterChicken007", "updated": "2026-06-02T22:08:07+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tv5kbf/i_moved_my_fire_date_so_i_can_retire_2_years/opej0wo/", "content": "When cooking meat, you always cook according to temperature, not time.\n When saving for retirement, you are saving for the point where your portfolio can safely support your expenses. Just like when cooking chicken, you are going for an end state, not how long it took you to get there. The actual time it will take you will depend on the market returns, effects of inflation, lifestyle creep, and your actual contributions that happen after life has taken it's share." }, { "id": "t1_opep2rr", "author": "/u/Magic-Mushroomz", "updated": "2026-06-02T22:39:24+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tv5kbf/i_moved_my_fire_date_so_i_can_retire_2_years/opep2rr/", "content": "Now I’m hungry." }, { "id": "t1_opey2hh", "author": "/u/Greenfirelife27", "updated": "2026-06-02T23:27:45+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tv5kbf/i_moved_my_fire_date_so_i_can_retire_2_years/opey2hh/", "content": "Bone in, skin on thighs are safe to eat at 165F but much tastier at 197F." }, { "id": "t1_opf9kig", "author": "/u/PedalMonk", "updated": "2026-06-03T00:32:17+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tv5kbf/i_moved_my_fire_date_so_i_can_retire_2_years/opf9kig/", "content": "mmmMMM Spicy Chicken! Easiest and tastiest Chicken out there. The sauce recipe is simple.\n Mix Gochujang with Bullseye BBQ sauce. Mix it to taste of sweetness and spiciness. Put boneless/skinless thighs in a zip lock bag with the sauce over night. Open grill the chicken on fairly high heat! It burns easily because of the sugar, so keep that in mind. 10 minutes or so per side.\n Sometimes I add green onion and/or garlic if I have it on hand." }, { "id": "t1_opg16t0", "author": "/u/WaterChicken007", "updated": "2026-06-03T03:12:35+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tv5kbf/i_moved_my_fire_date_so_i_can_retire_2_years/opg16t0/", "content": "Heh, you missed my point about cooking to temp, NOT time. Time is only a guideline and you have to adjust it based upon how hot the grill is, outside temps, amount of sauce / marinades used, and how many times you opened the danged lid." }, { "id": "t1_opghfj9", "author": "/u/PedalMonk", "updated": "2026-06-03T05:04:00+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tv5kbf/i_moved_my_fire_date_so_i_can_retire_2_years/opghfj9/", "content": "I didn't miss your point. I totally agree :)" }, { "id": "t1_opfcve7", "author": "/u/Greenfirelife27", "updated": "2026-06-03T00:50:58+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tv5kbf/i_moved_my_fire_date_so_i_can_retire_2_years/opfcve7/", "content": "Nice" }, { "id": "t1_opfxwbt", "author": "/u/MilwaukeeMushrooms", "updated": "2026-06-03T02:52:05+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tv5kbf/i_moved_my_fire_date_so_i_can_retire_2_years/opfxwbt/", "content": "Cooking to feel can be more effective than cooking to temperature brother" }, { "id": "t1_opg05pj", "author": "/u/WaterChicken007", "updated": "2026-06-03T03:05:59+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tv5kbf/i_moved_my_fire_date_so_i_can_retire_2_years/opg05pj/", "content": "My extensive experience with various cuts of meat and a good instant read thermometer says otherwise. This topic has been thoroughly debunked over the years.\n You can tell pretty close by feel alone, but different cows can produce different feeling steaks. Some are leaner, some are tougher, and some steaks were aged longer. A thermometer doesn’t care about any of that and is an objectively better way to measure doneness." }, { "id": "t1_opg2d5y", "author": "/u/MilwaukeeMushrooms", "updated": "2026-06-03T03:20:13+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tv5kbf/i_moved_my_fire_date_so_i_can_retire_2_years/opg2d5y/", "content": "You obviously don’t grill at altitude" }, { "id": "t1_opg2n3z", "author": "/u/WaterChicken007", "updated": "2026-06-03T03:22:01+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tv5kbf/i_moved_my_fire_date_so_i_can_retire_2_years/opg2n3z/", "content": "?? And what does altitude have to do with anything? It doesn’t change the feel or temperature of meat." }, { "id": "t1_opg3jtp", "author": "/u/MilwaukeeMushrooms", "updated": "2026-06-03T03:27:56+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tv5kbf/i_moved_my_fire_date_so_i_can_retire_2_years/opg3jtp/", "content": "You sure?" }, { "id": "t1_opg3tsf", "author": "/u/WaterChicken007", "updated": "2026-06-03T03:29:44+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tv5kbf/i_moved_my_fire_date_so_i_can_retire_2_years/opg3tsf/", "content": "If altitude did anything, then that is even more reason to use a thermometer to measure doneness vs feel. Your argument doesn’t make any sense." }, { "id": "t1_opei1n9", "author": "/u/DigitalFStopper", "updated": "2026-06-02T22:02:58+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tv5kbf/i_moved_my_fire_date_so_i_can_retire_2_years/opei1n9/", "content": "I never use more than 7% returns while working and 5% returns in retirement for my calculations. Good luck!" }, { "id": "t1_opelt4b", "author": "/u/Trying2bSensible", "updated": "2026-06-02T22:22:26+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tv5kbf/i_moved_my_fire_date_so_i_can_retire_2_years/opelt4b/", "content": "What matters is real returns, net of inflation. A nominal return at 7% with inflation assumption at 3% vs 2% makes a sizable difference over long horizons. The one assuming the former inflation rate is clearly more conservative in their financial model as their real return is 4% vs 5% in latter case." }, { "id": "t1_opeoszi", "author": "/u/PedalMonk", "updated": "2026-06-02T22:37:58+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tv5kbf/i_moved_my_fire_date_so_i_can_retire_2_years/opeoszi/", "content": "While inflation is a factor, it's not something I am focusing on. I have already factored it in for my FIRE number. What matters is understanding how it might affect you. At the end of the day, inflation is always going to be there." }, { "id": "t1_opekngf", "author": "/u/PedalMonk", "updated": "2026-06-02T22:16:34+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tv5kbf/i_moved_my_fire_date_so_i_can_retire_2_years/opekngf/", "content": "I also do 7 and 5%. The 9.5% includes contributions." }, { "id": "t1_opekeao", "author": "/u/AlgoRhythMatic", "updated": "2026-06-02T22:15:17+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tv5kbf/i_moved_my_fire_date_so_i_can_retire_2_years/opekeao/", "content": "Boldin has nice filters for this at various percentiles I set my baseline mix close to yours, about 6.5%, and then check out the Monte Carlo derivations from there. I think folks have gotten way too used to 20% average over the past decade. It would be wonderful if it holds up, but I’d rather be over prepared and leave a windfall vs. being caught off guard with a run of bad years." }, { "id": "t1_opem053", "author": "/u/DigitalFStopper", "updated": "2026-06-02T22:23:25+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tv5kbf/i_moved_my_fire_date_so_i_can_retire_2_years/opem053/", "content": "Exactly, and if things go much better during the contribution time I can leave even earlier, but I’m also committed to understanding/prepping myself for up to three additional years of work past my goal if the market isn’t great." }, { "id": "t1_opeyvnp", "author": "/u/Pup5432", "updated": "2026-06-02T23:32:13+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tv5kbf/i_moved_my_fire_date_so_i_can_retire_2_years/opeyvnp/", "content": "My calculator puts me 14 years out assuming 6% returns. I’d rather be comfortable than go back to work" }, { "id": "t1_opem2gq", "author": "/u/BigWater7673", "updated": "2026-06-02T22:23:44+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tv5kbf/i_moved_my_fire_date_so_i_can_retire_2_years/opem2gq/", "content": "You guys are close enough to turn on social security at 62 if the market gets really scary and starts cutting down portfolios. I personally plan on a dynamic withdrawal strategy which I think allows me my to comfortably spend 4.5% when the market is up and drop down to as low as 3% if it's down." }, { "id": "t1_openm7m", "author": "/u/PedalMonk", "updated": "2026-06-02T22:31:42+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tv5kbf/i_moved_my_fire_date_so_i_can_retire_2_years/openm7m/", "content": "For sure! We already plan to take SS at 62/64 or 63/65, depending on how things look at that time.\n I am also planning a dynamic withdrawal strategy. I will likely take more in extremely good markets and sock away the cash for later dates." }, { "id": "t1_opfgevn", "author": "/u/Yeet_McSkeeter269", "updated": "2026-06-03T01:10:55+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tv5kbf/i_moved_my_fire_date_so_i_can_retire_2_years/opfgevn/", "content": "At 62? Is there any penalty for collecting SS while earning a certain amount?" }, { "id": "t1_opfpkz1", "author": "/u/tech5291", "updated": "2026-06-03T02:03:26+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tv5kbf/i_moved_my_fire_date_so_i_can_retire_2_years/opfpkz1/", "content": "Yes, but if they retire at 55 that's not an issue. Only EARNED income counts for the reduction, not IRA withdrawals or capital gains." }, { "id": "t1_opei61l", "author": "/u/DragonfruitShot9428", "updated": "2026-06-02T22:03:36+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tv5kbf/i_moved_my_fire_date_so_i_can_retire_2_years/opei61l/", "content": "good for you tbh" }, { "id": "t1_opeoem8", "author": "/u/NefariousnessOdd862", "updated": "2026-06-02T22:35:50+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tv5kbf/i_moved_my_fire_date_so_i_can_retire_2_years/opeoem8/", "content": "Just don’t forget on how to pay for Medical insurance and deductible these days, it will be an eye opener unless your are ex-government or have a contract that allows you to gap till 65! If you don’t, you have to plan on $18,000-$26, 000 per year for two people until 65 including deductible…" }, { "id": "t1_opeprdh", "author": "/u/PedalMonk", "updated": "2026-06-02T22:43:01+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tv5kbf/i_moved_my_fire_date_so_i_can_retire_2_years/opeprdh/", "content": "Indeed. I have built a FIRE app for myself that calculates staying under certain MAGI limits so that I can take advantage of subsidies. I have multiple buckets to pull from in my arsenal. Super hero funds is what they are called. That's my cash, HYSA, brokerage, HSA, fixed interest buckets. I can also pull from Roth if needed and this also includes pulling some from pre-tax.\n I've spent a lot of time understanding all of this. Even after spending all this time "getting it right", it's still complicated and sucks to deal with." }, { "id": "t1_opf08tt", "author": "/u/Conscious_Life_8032", "updated": "2026-06-02T23:39:49+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tv5kbf/i_moved_my_fire_date_so_i_can_retire_2_years/opf08tt/", "content": "Superhero - you must follow Ari at Root financial 😆🤪" }, { "id": "t1_opf31g1", "author": "/u/PedalMonk", "updated": "2026-06-02T23:55:33+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tv5kbf/i_moved_my_fire_date_so_i_can_retire_2_years/opf31g1/", "content": "Indeed I do :D" }, { "id": "t1_opeqsh3", "author": "/u/NefariousnessOdd862", "updated": "2026-06-02T22:48:28+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tv5kbf/i_moved_my_fire_date_so_i_can_retire_2_years/opeqsh3/", "content": "Good for educating yourself, just one tip… don’t count on “subsidies” because most are gone!" }, { "id": "t1_opeqkx0", "author": "/u/PedalMonk", "updated": "2026-06-02T22:47:20+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tv5kbf/i_moved_my_fire_date_so_i_can_retire_2_years/opeqkx0/", "content": "BTW, believe it or not, there are some bronze plans that are much cheaper than Gold plans if you go to the doctor a lot like I do. In fact, this year (hopefully when I retire too, but not counting on it), there is a $0/month bronze plan. At most, it costs 14K, which is $120 cheaper than the gold plan but gold could also be as much as 28K if you end up getting hurt. This is for CA btw, not sure about other states.\n Bottom line, no monthly cost, up front 14K can be paid with HSA since it is deductible. It's a loophole basically to use your HSA. Either way you are going to pay it, but where the money comes from matters." }, { "id": "t1_opergdk", "author": "/u/NefariousnessOdd862", "updated": "2026-06-02T22:51:59+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tv5kbf/i_moved_my_fire_date_so_i_can_retire_2_years/opergdk/", "content": "Who in their right mind thinks 14k or 28k is a “good deal”!?" }, { "id": "t1_opesna4", "author": "/u/PedalMonk", "updated": "2026-06-02T22:58:19+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tv5kbf/i_moved_my_fire_date_so_i_can_retire_2_years/opesna4/", "content": "I don't think anybody does, but it is the cards we are dealt. But I'm already paying 9-10K now.\n But back to the price, 14K IS relatively cheap for 3 people using ACA. That's my point, for ACA it's good, because it's easily double depending on your situation." }, { "id": "t1_opf0u00", "author": "/u/Conscious_Life_8032", "updated": "2026-06-02T23:43:07+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tv5kbf/i_moved_my_fire_date_so_i_can_retire_2_years/opf0u00/", "content": "Mine is 2030 might pull my date as well" }, { "id": "t1_opf1ouo", "author": "/u/PedalMonk", "updated": "2026-06-02T23:47:59+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tv5kbf/i_moved_my_fire_date_so_i_can_retire_2_years/opf1ouo/", "content": "Do it!" }, { "id": "t1_opf85tb", "author": "/u/Conscious_Life_8032", "updated": "2026-06-03T00:24:21+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tv5kbf/i_moved_my_fire_date_so_i_can_retire_2_years/opf85tb/", "content": "Hoping an upcoming vacation will help me process chart the path forward.\n My job is not bad but I just have zero motivation at this point. I want to enjoy my good years vs wasting time being a cog in someone’s wheel" }, { "id": "t1_opf8u17", "author": "/u/PedalMonk", "updated": "2026-06-03T00:28:04+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tv5kbf/i_moved_my_fire_date_so_i_can_retire_2_years/opf8u17/", "content": "yeah man, I totally agree, my job is rewarding, but stressful. Also, after 30+ years of working, I just don't have it in me anymore." }, { "id": "t1_opgbvig", "author": "/u/Future-looker1996", "updated": "2026-06-03T04:24:00+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tv5kbf/i_moved_my_fire_date_so_i_can_retire_2_years/opgbvig/", "content": "This thread has me really excited, I’ve given notice to employer and just helping with transition for a few months! (Watching portfolio rock, currently….)" }, { "id": "t1_opgg0ec", "author": "/u/PedalMonk", "updated": "2026-06-03T04:53:33+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tv5kbf/i_moved_my_fire_date_so_i_can_retire_2_years/opgg0ec/", "content": "haha, good luck! :D" }, { "id": "t1_opexwza", "author": "/u/Spartikis", "updated": "2026-06-02T23:26:54+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tv5kbf/i_moved_my_fire_date_so_i_can_retire_2_years/opexwza/", "content": "Congrats! I’ve got 11 years left!" }, { "id": "t1_opf4gtg", "author": "/u/PedalMonk", "updated": "2026-06-03T00:03:34+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tv5kbf/i_moved_my_fire_date_so_i_can_retire_2_years/opf4gtg/", "content": "Thanks! I remember saying 11 years. After I crossed the 4 years or less mark, that's when things go really real. I hope you don't mind, I will offer some unsolicited advice...Save as much liquid money as you can now. Don't wait. I wish I started at least a year earlier." }, { "id": "t1_opfa5wk", "author": "/u/Spartikis", "updated": "2026-06-03T00:35:43+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tv5kbf/i_moved_my_fire_date_so_i_can_retire_2_years/opfa5wk/", "content": "Solid advice. My wife wants to buy a beach condo so the liquid cash we have right now is going to be going by towards that haha. But the plan is to get that paid off in about 5 years then prepare to cash flow our kids college education, we’re planning to retire the year our youngest goes to college. With all of that said we are actually somehow ahead of schedule. So like you maybe we will be don’t in like 9 or 10 years!" }, { "id": "t1_opfb506", "author": "/u/PedalMonk", "updated": "2026-06-03T00:41:18+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tv5kbf/i_moved_my_fire_date_so_i_can_retire_2_years/opfb506/", "content": "Nice! You will be ready sooner if you are using conservative numbers. That's how it worked for me." }, { "id": "t1_opey0af", "author": "/u/Tall_Green7253", "updated": "2026-06-02T23:27:24+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tv5kbf/i_moved_my_fire_date_so_i_can_retire_2_years/opey0af/", "content": "the market timing concern is real, but you're already doing the right thing by planning conservatively. using 7-9% instead of chasing your 17.5% ytd is exactly the move, and honestly having 300k liquid for a market downturn is solid cushion. i've seen people panic-delay retirement because they got spooked by a correction right before firing, when they could've just tapped their emergency fund and let the portfolio recover. your spouse hitting 62 in a few years also gives you flexibility if things get weird.\n the bigger thing though is that you're both actually ready, not just hitting a number. that matters more than people admit. my dad kept pushing his date because he thought he needed more, then got laid off anyway at 61 and retired on less than planned. sometimes the job decides for you anyway, so if you're confident about expenses and the math is close enough, pulling the trigger makes sense." }, { "id": "t1_opf45j1", "author": "/u/PedalMonk", "updated": "2026-06-03T00:01:47+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tv5kbf/i_moved_my_fire_date_so_i_can_retire_2_years/opf45j1/", "content": "Thanks, yeah, we are both ready :D My only big concern is making it to 55 (6 months from now), because that opens up a bunch of doors for me.\n\n- I can transfer my cheaper property tax to a newer, bigger home (thanks prop 19 in CA!)\n- Rule of 55\n- All of my RSUs vest, though it's not a huge amount of money, but still probably 70K after tax. And yes, I feel like I will be laid off before my original retire date of 2030 anyway. September will be 30 years at my company, crazy to say that.\n We are almost 85% to our monetary goal, so we are close. 1 more solid year and that might be it for us." }, { "id": "t1_opfeokt", "author": "/u/Tall_Green7253", "updated": "2026-06-03T01:01:12+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tv5kbf/i_moved_my_fire_date_so_i_can_retire_2_years/opfeokt/", "content": "Hitting 55 in six months changes the whole picture then, especially with Rule of 55 letting you tap retirement accounts penalty-free and that 70K RSU vest. You're basically looking at a runway where you can coast if needed, which is a huge difference from your original plan." }, { "id": "t1_opf29mw", "author": "/u/Harmonic-Hyena", "updated": "2026-06-02T23:51:14+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tv5kbf/i_moved_my_fire_date_so_i_can_retire_2_years/opf29mw/", "content": "Have you considered weather that time of year? My original date was Jan 2 of the year I turn 55. But as I near that date, I think I will push it off until April or May. I live in an area with cold winters and I do not want to be stuck indoors during the honeymoon period. Granted that is not an issue in areas with moderate winters and places like AZ have the opposite problem. For me it is financially optimal to retire in Jan but I think it will be psychologically optimal to wait until it is a little warmer. Granted, if you plan to immediately start traveling, then it is probably not an issue." }, { "id": "t1_opf2zto", "author": "/u/PedalMonk", "updated": "2026-06-02T23:55:18+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tv5kbf/i_moved_my_fire_date_so_i_can_retire_2_years/opf2zto/", "content": "Good points. I live in CA, so weather isn't an issue :) One thing that concerns me is, how it might affect my MAGI either good or bad." }, { "id": "t1_opf9eyd", "author": "/u/Harmonic-Hyena", "updated": "2026-06-03T00:31:24+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tv5kbf/i_moved_my_fire_date_so_i_can_retire_2_years/opf9eyd/", "content": "Retiring early in the year gives you the most flexibility, especially if you plan to do Roth conversions. There are case where you may need to show an income and a job does that easily but trying to show in income is not a problem most people have. Most of us are trying not to show an income." }, { "id": "t1_opfbba1", "author": "/u/PedalMonk", "updated": "2026-06-03T00:42:18+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tv5kbf/i_moved_my_fire_date_so_i_can_retire_2_years/opfbba1/", "content": "Yeah, I should be able to do roth conversions from when I retire until 65." }, { "id": "t1_opgvqxk", "author": "/u/laurenthu", "updated": "2026-06-03T06:55:49+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tv5kbf/i_moved_my_fire_date_so_i_can_retire_2_years/opgvqxk/", "content": "Good for you, the "one more year" trap catches most people and you're calling it.\n The one thing I'd sanity-check before pulling 2 years early: what happens if the first 2-3 years are ugly. Retiring earlier costs you the extra accumulation, but the bigger thing is it drops you into the sequence-risk zone with a slightly thinner cushion, and the math is way more sensitive to a bad first few years than to your average return over the whole retirement.\n Doesn't have to change the decision. The usual fixes are keeping a couple of years of spend in cash or short bonds so you're not selling equities into a drop, and being honest about whether you'd trim spending in a down year if you had to. With that flexibility, retiring into a downturn is survivable. If the budget is bone-tight at your number, that's the part I'd pressure-test.\n At 54/56 the horizon is still long enough that this genuinely matters. Congrats though, that's a great spot to be in." }, { "id": "t1_opgy9zc", "author": "/u/PedalMonk", "updated": "2026-06-03T07:16:48+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tv5kbf/i_moved_my_fire_date_so_i_can_retire_2_years/opgy9zc/", "content": "Yep! The plan is to have 300K in liquid assets! I've run every fire calc, every simulation, every stress test and everything looks good. But at the end of the day, it doesn't matter. I have health issues, I will retire early, have 10-20 good years and then spending will slow way down. And honestly, I am flexible and can and will cut costs if needed. I also don;t care how much or little money I have. I will be fine. I currently have 2.55M. I will likely make it past 3M in the next 1.5 years unless the market finally tanks and I have to re-evaluate. Bottom line though, everything is penciled in until it's not :) I appreciate everything you've said." }, { "id": "t1_oph1n9t", "author": "/u/laurenthu", "updated": "2026-06-03T07:45:51+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tv5kbf/i_moved_my_fire_date_so_i_can_retire_2_years/oph1n9t/", "content": "Yeah that tracks. The 300K liquid is basically two and a half years of spend sitting outside the market, so you've already pre-funded the exact window where sequence risk does its damage. Pair that with being willing to trim if the first stretch is ugly and you've covered the two levers that actually move the needle. The sims are reassuring but that cash buffer plus the flexibility is the real backstop. Sounds like you've genuinely thought it through, go enjoy the good years." }, { "id": "t1_open3th", "author": "/u/ThereforeIV", "updated": "2026-06-02T22:29:02+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tv5kbf/i_moved_my_fire_date_so_i_can_retire_2_years/open3th/", "content": ""Retirement is a number, not an age..."\n So it's really about when do you hit that number.\n My "plan" date is late 2029, but with this market acting like this I might hit the number much sooner." }, { "id": "t1_opeo7fj", "author": "/u/PedalMonk", "updated": "2026-06-02T22:34:47+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tv5kbf/i_moved_my_fire_date_so_i_can_retire_2_years/opeo7fj/", "content": "For a long time, my "plan" date was jan 2030 as that was my milestone goal forecast, but like you, the market is moving that up quickly. I could hit my number as soon as June 2027. But will probably stay on another 6 months to pad it a little." }, { "id": "t1_opeso0n", "author": "/u/Far_Spell_5102", "updated": "2026-06-02T22:58:26+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tv5kbf/i_moved_my_fire_date_so_i_can_retire_2_years/opeso0n/", "content": "It is good to have enough cash saved then fire. We will never know what will happen. Congrats" }, { "id": "t1_opet4me", "author": "/u/mygirltien", "updated": "2026-06-02T23:00:55+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tv5kbf/i_moved_my_fire_date_so_i_can_retire_2_years/opet4me/", "content": "We are not much different just sooner. Date was early 2028, that got pulled in to 2 months from now." }, { "id": "t1_opf3ryk", "author": "/u/lovergirIxo", "updated": "2026-06-02T23:59:41+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tv5kbf/i_moved_my_fire_date_so_i_can_retire_2_years/opf3ryk/", "content": "The layoff wake up call is real, watching colleagues go through that stuff has a way of clarifying exactly how much of your finite time you actually want to trade for a paycheck. Congrats on pulling the date in, 587 days is so much better than 952." }, { "id": "t1_opfh4yk", "author": "/u/HolyMoleyGuacamoly", "updated": "2026-06-03T01:15:01+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tv5kbf/i_moved_my_fire_date_so_i_can_retire_2_years/opfh4yk/", "content": "sounds like prison time when your put it that way lol" }, { "id": "t1_opfgqn0", "author": "/u/BurnoutSociety", "updated": "2026-06-03T01:12:46+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tv5kbf/i_moved_my_fire_date_so_i_can_retire_2_years/opfgqn0/", "content": "Similar situation.. 52yr Mine was 2031 and I also moved it to Jan 2028 and I am around 300k away from my milestone.." }, { "id": "t1_opfl2lt", "author": "/u/Blchg", "updated": "2026-06-03T01:37:37+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tv5kbf/i_moved_my_fire_date_so_i_can_retire_2_years/opfl2lt/", "content": "Congratulations and thanks for leaving the opportunity to others in need!" }, { "id": "t1_opfwjnq", "author": "/u/demona2002", "updated": "2026-06-03T02:43:53+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tv5kbf/i_moved_my_fire_date_so_i_can_retire_2_years/opfwjnq/", "content": "My original date was 2031 but unlikely to make it (burned out like everyone else). I’m now shooting for 2028 but if I get RIFd prior I’ll just retire." }, { "id": "t1_ophdxy9", "author": "/u/FewUnderstanding2214", "updated": "2026-06-03T09:33:39+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tv5kbf/i_moved_my_fire_date_so_i_can_retire_2_years/ophdxy9/", "content": "I would wait and see how the Iran/US conflict plays out in very concerned about the effect of fertilizer and oil shortages" }, { "id": "t1_opelzqu", "author": "/u/Spiritual-Welder-113", "updated": "2026-06-02T22:23:22+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tv5kbf/i_moved_my_fire_date_so_i_can_retire_2_years/opelzqu/", "content": "Middle class inflation is 7-9% .inflation adjusted return of 5-7% is good ." } ] }, { "source": "r/Fire hot", "id": "t3_1tubtv6", "title": "Barista FIRE seems overrated", "author": "/u/Gandalf-and-Frodo", "updated": "2026-06-02T01:04:41+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/", "content": "I've worked plenty of low paying and part time jobs. They all sucked ass and were way more stress than they were worth. In fact, the low paying jobs were always way more toxic than my high paying jobs.\n Unless you have a sure thing lined up (guaranteed to be hired) that you are sure to enjoy, I think Barista FIRE is overrated. Just work an extra year or two at a full-time job.\n Thoughts?\n submitted by /u/Gandalf-and-Frodo\n [link] [comments]", "contentHtml": "

I've worked plenty of low paying and part time jobs. They all sucked ass and were way more stress than they were worth. In fact, the low paying jobs were always way more toxic than my high paying jobs.

Unless you have a sure thing lined up (guaranteed to be hired) that you are sure to enjoy, I think Barista FIRE is overrated. Just work an extra year or two at a full-time job.

Thoughts?

submitted by /u/Gandalf-and-Frodo
[link] [comments]", "comments": [ { "id": "t1_op8g04i", "author": "/u/Shawn_NYC", "updated": "2026-06-02T01:12:43+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/op8g04i/", "content": "There are 2 types of barista FIRE\n\n- People who can tell you the specific job they're qualified and happy to do, despite the downsides and the lower pay, for specific reasons that fit their interests and lifestyle.\n\n- People who talk about "barista fire" in vague terms with no specific plan because they assume all blue collar work is beneath them in such a way that it must be so easy, a breeze really!" }, { "id": "t1_op8h66o", "author": "/u/Available_Editor4383", "updated": "2026-06-02T01:19:44+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/op8h66o/", "content": "I was also thinking: 3. You don’t need the money and that means you do the thing to kill some time and have pocket change.\n I’ve always seen barista FIRE recommended to people who have already reached the finish line, but they don’t want to fully RE." }, { "id": "t1_op8i8re", "author": "/u/Informal_Pumpkin_775", "updated": "2026-06-02T01:26:08+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/op8i8re/", "content": "This is my plan, retire at 47 and work at Lowes or home depot part time. Not thats its easy but will give me more time to think about home renovations and then hang with my family\n Edit *** ai think I misunderstood barista fire. Thought it was to work kill some time and do something you can enjoy dont have to worry about keeping the job. If I misunderstood that, sorry.\n I wont be working weekends or holidays. I wont be on call. If I get fired, Ok.....sorry I offended some people." }, { "id": "t1_op8o2d2", "author": "/u/Ok_Ad7867", "updated": "2026-06-02T02:01:11+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/op8o2d2/", "content": "Just remember that it might involve shift work and inconvenient scheduling...particularly when many people are going after those jobs." }, { "id": "t1_op8r0bn", "author": "/u/humansomeone", "updated": "2026-06-02T02:18:59+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/op8r0bn/", "content": "Or they call sunday morning. You need to be more available when someone calls in sick!\n These folks are clueless about how these jobs work. Sure you have fu money, but you'll wind up quitting every job. How does that work if you actually need the money because you relied on the job working out?" }, { "id": "t1_op9gxed", "author": "/u/Honest-Fortune2920", "updated": "2026-06-02T05:15:24+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/op9gxed/", "content": "I mean, you can just say no. I can't speak to lowe's but as someone who works in heavy equipment, a trade, the dudes who can afford to just say "no" get what they want within reason because there's no levers you can pull to twist their arm. You actually do need them because it's hard to find people at least in that line of work, training someone is expensive, and they don't care if they get fired. So it's up to the people who need the job to cover all the bullshit on call stuff." }, { "id": "t1_opa6zhx", "author": "/u/Strazdas1", "updated": "2026-06-02T08:53:11+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/opa6zhx/", "content": "This doesnt work in something like lowes, because they can replace you with a 18 year old school dropout who will jump at overtime." }, { "id": "t1_opaz2ld", "author": "/u/humansomeone", "updated": "2026-06-02T12:16:15+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/opaz2ld/", "content": "That's exactly how I know. I was the broke 18 year old who took all the hours. They would cut 3 people and have me work alone. I swear people think they have so much leverage at these jobs. It's hilarious. I would never go back to something like this." }, { "id": "t1_opb8uc7", "author": "/u/CallItDanzig", "updated": "2026-06-02T13:09:19+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/opb8uc7/", "content": "Especially a balding overweight software engineer working from home who thinks home depot is just begging to have him and bend over backwards for him. I wouldn't hire him to begin with." }, { "id": "t1_opbnx59", "author": "/u/humansomeone", "updated": "2026-06-02T14:22:45+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/opbnx59/", "content": "Omg lol!!" }, { "id": "t1_opb2354", "author": "/u/Informal_Pumpkin_775", "updated": "2026-06-02T12:33:20+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/opb2354/", "content": "Then they can have it?\n Isn't the point of this to work for spare change band havw some fun? Im not stressed about being fired" }, { "id": "t1_opb71x1", "author": "/u/Strazdas1", "updated": "2026-06-02T13:00:00+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/opb71x1/", "content": "Not if you are barista fire. you need the work to tie you over with enough income.\n If you dont need that income it makes zero sense to look for jobs like that." }, { "id": "t1_opdwknz", "author": "/u/terjon", "updated": "2026-06-02T20:20:13+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/opdwknz/", "content": "I don't understand the term then.\n What is it called when you take a job simply because you are bored and want some human contact in some productive setting?" }, { "id": "t1_opfi5ge", "author": "/u/sfawson", "updated": "2026-06-03T01:20:52+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/opfi5ge/", "content": "I think it's more about health insurance. Starbucks Baristas originally got health insurance at 25 hrs/wk" }, { "id": "t1_opbfieu", "author": "/u/Informal_Pumpkin_775", "updated": "2026-06-02T13:42:33+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/opbfieu/", "content": "Fair enough" }, { "id": "t1_opa73mj", "author": "/u/humansomeone", "updated": "2026-06-02T08:54:12+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/opa73mj/", "content": "In my experience they just stop scheduling you.\n Hey if you can make the 18 dollar an hour job work have at it." }, { "id": "t1_op9u7rd", "author": "/u/Ok_Ad7867", "updated": "2026-06-02T07:02:44+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/op9u7rd/", "content": "Yes, in your early years you usually need the job more than they need you. Later on it can switch" }, { "id": "t1_opbpiid", "author": "/u/Key-Camel-9777", "updated": "2026-06-02T14:30:04+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/opbpiid/", "content": "The entire point of having FU money is wasted if you don't quit now and again.\n Home Depot was actually a decent place for part time work for me while starting out as a teacher, stayed way longer than I needed to becuase management was cool and coworkers were not terribly annoying for the most part." }, { "id": "t1_opcavwq", "author": "/u/Available_Editor4383", "updated": "2026-06-02T16:05:07+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/opcavwq/", "content": "My grandpa retired and worked at Home Depot part time just to get out of the house. He loved it!" }, { "id": "t1_opbwjn7", "author": "/u/MassiveDefinition274", "updated": "2026-06-02T15:02:05+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/opbwjn7/", "content": "I worked retail for several years before I got into software and man, while I love the fact that it pays way more, if you were to have me in software vs retail for the same pay, I would take software every time." }, { "id": "t1_opcixsz", "author": "/u/ChaoticAmoebae", "updated": "2026-06-02T16:40:21+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/opcixsz/", "content": "You don’t have to quit they can FIRE you if there have a problem." }, { "id": "t1_opcruw2", "author": "/u/Kingking421", "updated": "2026-06-02T17:19:08+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/opcruw2/", "content": "So ive thought about uber driving. I pick the schedule…. Not for the money.. couple days a week…meet people. Takebthe jobs and ride times I want." }, { "id": "t1_opboiss", "author": "/u/InsertNovelAnswer", "updated": "2026-06-02T14:25:29+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/opboiss/", "content": "Honestly, never understood why people don't go towards gig/project work instead for Barista Fire.\n My partner just transferred to a job where it's per patient and she organizes the days. So she can call schedule. I, myself, have been doing a little deadline book work. Only doing the quarterlies and helping with taxes." }, { "id": "t1_opbp0hs", "author": "/u/humansomeone", "updated": "2026-06-02T14:27:45+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/opbp0hs/", "content": "It makes way more sense to scale back on the current job. Customer service jobs that pay nothing just don't make sense to me. If you can find the unicorn one with perfect hours and no nonsense I guess work 4 hours for 80 bucks. But I currently make 90 bucks an hour (with benefits) so that route makes no sense.\n Edited above cuz can't type on phone." }, { "id": "t1_opbqhgc", "author": "/u/InsertNovelAnswer", "updated": "2026-06-02T14:34:36+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/opbqhgc/", "content": "I guess for us it's not having to deal with call or admissions, or other problems and just being able to have a set schedule and flexibility. We also count as employees so we still get group benefits.\n Note: also it's a good switch for me from homicidal/suicidal to more administration. (In my primary job, I was a behavioral health tech.) Just dropping one job to the quarterlies only and some MA administration." }, { "id": "t1_op8oveq", "author": "/u/NA_Faker", "updated": "2026-06-02T02:06:04+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/op8oveq/", "content": "Working retail gives you the opposite of time lol. You are expected to work 10 hours a day 6 days a week for shit pay. Working part time is pointless because you get paid so little you are better off not working...you'll probably make more in interest in a month than from salary" }, { "id": "t1_opaxaee", "author": "/u/snackpacksarecool", "updated": "2026-06-02T12:05:56+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/opaxaee/", "content": "I make more in a month in my trading account than I do in my job and that doesn’t really mean anything. Barista fire doesn’t mean that you go work 60 hours per work at two part time jobs, that’s still employment. It means working part time at a job that you find fun for your own reasons, including the social aspects and not hitting your retirement accounts so hard." }, { "id": "t1_op95w6t", "author": "/u/Informal_Pumpkin_775", "updated": "2026-06-02T03:55:13+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/op95w6t/", "content": "Then ill door dash to kill time lol\n I juat want an excuse to leave my house other than the gym everyday. I know im a lazy bum, so ill find/need somthing" }, { "id": "t1_opa745p", "author": "/u/Strazdas1", "updated": "2026-06-02T08:54:20+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/opa745p/", "content": "You could just... leave house? Go to a park? visit a new park every day? You could eve gamify it, make a list." }, { "id": "t1_op9c5fd", "author": "/u/Phryno-soma", "updated": "2026-06-02T04:39:25+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/op9c5fd/", "content": "My gym is 30 miles away in town, so would be nice to work a couple hours to justify commute 4, 5 days a week plus travel stipend." }, { "id": "t1_opaz9qb", "author": "/u/humansomeone", "updated": "2026-06-02T12:17:22+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/opaz9qb/", "content": "Just move to town if you're so bored. Weird how people who don't actually want to be alone, live nowhere." }, { "id": "t1_opb3cmd", "author": "/u/ThirstyWolfSpider", "updated": "2026-06-02T12:40:20+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/opb3cmd/", "content": "And you need to hit certain hour thresholds to qualify for health insurance ... which was the original main point to BaristaFIRE before the ACA became law. Then there's the problem that they may not even be willing to schedule you for that many." }, { "id": "t1_op8s424", "author": "/u/voldin91", "updated": "2026-06-02T02:25:40+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/op8s424/", "content": "The idea behind part time is that it's supplemental income" }, { "id": "t1_op8t3nj", "author": "/u/NA_Faker", "updated": "2026-06-02T02:31:46+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/op8t3nj/", "content": "For you to make enough for it to actually make a difference as supplemental income you will be working full time...retail part time monthly literally makes less than my investment portfolio changes in a day..." }, { "id": "t1_op914a2", "author": "/u/voldin91", "updated": "2026-06-02T03:23:03+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/op914a2/", "content": "If i work 20 hours a week making $20/hr that's $20k per year. That's worth $500k invested using the 4% rule" }, { "id": "t1_op91x57", "author": "/u/NA_Faker", "updated": "2026-06-02T03:28:23+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/op91x57/", "content": "20 hrs a week at $20 an hour is $400 a week. If you are barista fire you will make more than $400 a day in investment income..." }, { "id": "t1_op99ccq", "author": "/u/AlaskanSnowDragon", "updated": "2026-06-02T04:19:08+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/op99ccq/", "content": "Not person you're talking to. But 20k extra pocket change for doing something that is either easy or that you enjoy and helps keep you active/busy is nothing to sneeze at." }, { "id": "t1_op96d5x", "author": "/u/trendyfriendy", "updated": "2026-06-02T03:58:28+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/op96d5x/", "content": "The amount you’re getting from your investments compared to a part time job doesn’t really matter, it’s how much income you have total vs how much you want to spend. I’ll give you two examples where that 20k/year job would be helpful even when earning more from investments\n\n- someone retires and their fire number is 1.5m (spending 60k/year). They retire exactly once they hit their number, but the stock market is looking iffy so they want a little extra cash to protect them from sequence of returns. Barista fire is one option for this which allows them to maintain their spending while leaving their full time job\n\n- someone with the same fire number is sick of working 60-70 hours a week and they quit before they hit their number. Maybe they have 1.25m and can spend 50k from investments alone. An extra 20-30k from a part time job would let them live partially off a paycheck until their investments reach their 1.5m fire number.\n Personally I’d suck it up and work a little longer in my current job instead of making very little with a part time job, but some jobs are extra stressful, or they have insane hours, or they’re hard on your body, or they make you travel and keep you away from your family, or whatever else, so that may not be the best option for everyone." }, { "id": "t1_op9h90i", "author": "/u/Honest-Fortune2920", "updated": "2026-06-02T05:17:54+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/op9h90i/", "content": "If you are barista fire you will make more than $400 a day in investment income...\n Huh? You're suggesting a principle in the 3,650,000 dollar range?\n You are well into fat fire territory. Nevermind that most people thinking about Barista fire are likely planning to live on something a lot closer to 40k per year." }, { "id": "t1_opb64cn", "author": "/u/eclipsadesoare", "updated": "2026-06-02T12:55:10+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/opb64cn/", "content": "Plus there are people who truly need those jobs. Why are you taking them away from them if your interest is to retire? This is one of the main things that is wrong with society." }, { "id": "t1_opbaw4q", "author": "/u/DirtChoice5", "updated": "2026-06-02T13:19:40+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/opbaw4q/", "content": ""Taking them away" ass backwards thinking." }, { "id": "t1_opbub7g", "author": "/u/ThriceHawk", "updated": "2026-06-02T14:52:01+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/opbub7g/", "content": "So keeping the other existing job and taking that away from someone is better?" }, { "id": "t1_opf3bdb", "author": "/u/vulkoriscoming", "updated": "2026-06-02T23:57:06+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/opf3bdb/", "content": "The point of working part time is having something to do, not making money. So working a 4 hour shift a week is fine." }, { "id": "t1_op9dk8k", "author": "/u/Treefrogpaint", "updated": "2026-06-02T04:49:49+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/op9dk8k/", "content": "You could try babysitting or tutoring" }, { "id": "t1_opbf878", "author": "/u/Turkey-teeth", "updated": "2026-06-02T13:41:10+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/opbf878/", "content": "My Dad always said he'd work at Hardware Hank part time when he retired.\n After being retired, he says he doesn't know how he ever had time for a job 😊." }, { "id": "t1_opbfnxd", "author": "/u/Informal_Pumpkin_775", "updated": "2026-06-02T13:43:18+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/opbfnxd/", "content": "I wanna be like your dad :)" }, { "id": "t1_opc0lle", "author": "/u/Turkey-teeth", "updated": "2026-06-02T15:20:12+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/opc0lle/", "content": "Me too :)" }, { "id": "t1_opasxv2", "author": "/u/OneSeaworthiness7768", "updated": "2026-06-02T11:39:41+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/opasxv2/", "content": "Out of curiosity, have you ever worked a part time retail job before?" }, { "id": "t1_opb1d6u", "author": "/u/Informal_Pumpkin_775", "updated": "2026-06-02T12:29:16+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/opb1d6u/", "content": "Part time no, retail yes." }, { "id": "t1_opbnsd4", "author": "/u/InsertNovelAnswer", "updated": "2026-06-02T14:22:07+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/opbnsd4/", "content": "I'm starting to do this now. I do the books for my Brother's business because its a routine I enjoy. I'm starting to run some online games for fun because I enjoy doing it (bout 150 bucks a game).\n I think for me it's just a might as well get paid and a family duty thing." }, { "id": "t1_opcjqh0", "author": "/u/oksuresure", "updated": "2026-06-02T16:43:50+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/opcjqh0/", "content": "What online games need a person to run?\n I’ve never played online games before so sorry if this is a dumb question lol" }, { "id": "t1_opdjqu0", "author": "/u/nothatsmyarm", "updated": "2026-06-02T19:21:16+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/opdjqu0/", "content": "From that phrasing, I’d guess Dungeons & Dragons. People are always looking for DMs." }, { "id": "t1_opdbrka", "author": "/u/Possible-Feed-9019", "updated": "2026-06-02T18:45:35+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/opdbrka/", "content": "I thought it was to cover some of the bills, and hopefully health insurance." }, { "id": "t1_opdfpzx", "author": "/u/Informal_Pumpkin_775", "updated": "2026-06-02T19:03:02+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/opdfpzx/", "content": "Maybe I inferred too much with the word "barista"\n No idea at this point, lol. I think I bit off more than I can chew in this sub." }, { "id": "t1_opem8zv", "author": "/u/scottperezfox", "updated": "2026-06-02T22:24:39+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/opem8zv/", "content": "Part of it came from the fact that Starbucks used to give people health insurance even if they are not working a full 40 hrs/week schedule." }, { "id": "t1_opetfw0", "author": "/u/Informal_Pumpkin_775", "updated": "2026-06-02T23:02:35+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/opetfw0/", "content": "That makes a lot of sense. Thank you!" }, { "id": "t1_opb5vje", "author": "/u/eclipsadesoare", "updated": "2026-06-02T12:53:54+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/opb5vje/", "content": "Why don’t you just leave those jobs for people who need them if you already have enough to retire?" }, { "id": "t1_opb6gle", "author": "/u/Informal_Pumpkin_775", "updated": "2026-06-02T12:56:57+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/opb6gle/", "content": "Isn't the point of barista fire to work because you enjoy doing somthing?\n I like being in Lowes." }, { "id": "t1_opba4x7", "author": "/u/DudeWithASweater", "updated": "2026-06-02T13:15:54+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/opba4x7/", "content": "No, the point of barista fire is that you don't have enough to fat fire. It's a lean fire essentially, with the income from barista job to sustain your expenses and to cover things like health insurance." }, { "id": "t1_opbfzh1", "author": "/u/Less-Opportunity-715", "updated": "2026-06-02T13:44:53+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/opbfzh1/", "content": "Lmao" }, { "id": "t1_opb2x81", "author": "/u/ThirstyWolfSpider", "updated": "2026-06-02T12:37:58+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/opb2x81/", "content": "We also would have accepted "more time to think about home renovations than hang with my family"." }, { "id": "t1_opb4ddr", "author": "/u/Informal_Pumpkin_775", "updated": "2026-06-02T12:45:52+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/opb4ddr/", "content": "Family is also working or at school during the time id be working part time....thats why I wouldnt mind being gone." }, { "id": "t1_opbio8d", "author": "/u/girlpaint", "updated": "2026-06-02T13:57:56+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/opbio8d/", "content": "You'll have to work holidays 😔 But if you don't care about that, then more power to you" }, { "id": "t1_opc7mh3", "author": "/u/Informal_Pumpkin_775", "updated": "2026-06-02T15:50:56+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/opc7mh3/", "content": "I wont.\n I think maybe I misunderstood barista fire. I wont need the money just for somthing to hang with some new co worker frie ds and help load fridges. If I get fired fine, but I tjink misunderstood the definition." }, { "id": "t1_opcc9e4", "author": "/u/Available_Editor4383", "updated": "2026-06-02T16:11:06+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/opcc9e4/", "content": "You didn’t misunderstand the definition at all. Some people are just getting really offended by the idea of working part time and considering it enjoyable at all.\n The goal is free time, and they’re arguing that you’re spending yours wrong." }, { "id": "t1_opd9uud", "author": "/u/Informal_Pumpkin_775", "updated": "2026-06-02T18:37:14+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/opd9uud/", "content": "Thank you!!!" }, { "id": "t1_op9py9v", "author": "/u/Moonrak3r", "updated": "2026-06-02T06:27:40+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/op9py9v/", "content": "I spent a few summers working at a golf course. Every year there were a couple retired guys who worked there with one specific job, like mowing greens every morning. Essentially every morning at the crack of dawn they’d come out and mow the greens for a couple hours and call it a day.\n They said they liked the routine of having something to do, it gave them a bit of spending $$, and most importantly all employees of the course got free golf." }, { "id": "t1_opamycg", "author": "/u/CheeseFries92", "updated": "2026-06-02T11:00:03+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/opamycg/", "content": "I once did a tour at a brewery given by a woman who was retired but did brewery tours and like one shift bar tending at a golf course so she could drink and golf for cheap/free!" }, { "id": "t1_opbo5ln", "author": "/u/Dear_Chemical4826", "updated": "2026-06-02T14:23:48+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/opbo5ln/", "content": "This is the way. Get a job that gives you a discount on something you want to do anyway." }, { "id": "t1_opbkt3s", "author": "/u/Scared_Swing_8759", "updated": "2026-06-02T14:08:09+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/opbkt3s/", "content": "I know a guy who used to be a head coach of a D1 basketball program who works 12 hours a week checking out golf carts at an exclusive golf club. It gives him free access to the course and the club. No doubt he could afford the membership, but he greatly prefers this as it also gets him out of the house to do some "work"." }, { "id": "t1_opazkbq", "author": "/u/humansomeone", "updated": "2026-06-02T12:19:01+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/opazkbq/", "content": "That's the only time this makes sense. If something like that is your passion and hobby and you figure out a way to do it for free, go for it." }, { "id": "t1_opccoew", "author": "/u/Available_Editor4383", "updated": "2026-06-02T16:12:55+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/opccoew/", "content": "Some people just want something to do. No need to shame someone who doesn’t want to spend their free time the way you think they should." }, { "id": "t1_opduqym", "author": "/u/GriffinNowak", "updated": "2026-06-02T20:11:51+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/opduqym/", "content": "Common for ski resorts too" }, { "id": "t1_opbjaqn", "author": "/u/girlpaint", "updated": "2026-06-02T14:00:54+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/opbjaqn/", "content": "This." }, { "id": "t1_opavdcj", "author": "/u/AttachedHeartTheory", "updated": "2026-06-02T11:54:36+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/opavdcj/", "content": "This is me. I work at a boutique/theme hotel.\n I have an incredible time every day I punch in.\n I don’t need the money. I have VA healthcare and plenty in the bank.\n I’m 42. Without those 30 or so hours per week I’d be bored stiff." }, { "id": "t1_opeavil", "author": "/u/Hot_Alternative_5157", "updated": "2026-06-02T21:27:13+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/opeavil/", "content": "My husband is this. I hit FI by the tiek I met my husband and RE numbers just a year or so after we married. I can’t fully retire him without significant changes to our lifestyle but the other class is.. my husband needs structure. I think he is someone who needs to have to go to work on some level or literally he would be in froth of a computer screen 24/7. He already complains he’s sick like me (100% PT disabled veteran whose conditions have flared terribly in the last few years) but honestly I think instead of him having my conditions (because I can never be sick or apparently disabled without him having the same thing or worse…) I think it’s a lack of activity. He has lots of time when he’s not work if but will not do anything even minimal exercise or activity and I’m afraid it will get worse if he stops working completely. I know there are lots of others like him. Without structure, things fall apart" }, { "id": "t1_opalbpl", "author": "/u/poop-dolla", "updated": "2026-06-02T10:48:43+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/opalbpl/", "content": "This one isn’t barista fire though. It’s just working for fun. That’s full fire. Barista fire means you need the job for healthcare and maybe to cover some expenses to be able to get by." }, { "id": "t1_opce6b7", "author": "/u/Available_Editor4383", "updated": "2026-06-02T16:19:29+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/opce6b7/", "content": "On “pure” definition you may be right, but that’s not always how it’s used or understood by everyone on the sub.\n I mean these are all made-up terms and how people perceive them becomes their true definition. In my smooth brain opinion." }, { "id": "t1_opf5890", "author": "/u/vulkoriscoming", "updated": "2026-06-03T00:07:52+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/opf5890/", "content": "If you have little income, Obamacare subsidies make it likely you won't need a part time job depending on your State." }, { "id": "t1_opa6um0", "author": "/u/Strazdas1", "updated": "2026-06-02T08:52:01+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/opa6um0/", "content": "Thats still 2. you just dont know how it works." }, { "id": "t1_opcd416", "author": "/u/Available_Editor4383", "updated": "2026-06-02T16:14:50+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/opcd416/", "content": "Snarky attitude, real educational big guy." }, { "id": "t1_opdr9qd", "author": "/u/dcheng47", "updated": "2026-06-02T19:55:50+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/opdr9qd/", "content": "no one will hire you if you dont need the money. the job market is at a place where laid off skilled workers are competing for burger flipping job postings. you clearly dont know how it works." }, { "id": "t1_op8huuc", "author": "/u/HellfireXP", "updated": "2026-06-02T01:23:50+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/op8huuc/", "content": "I think this is a great response. When I think Barista FIRE, I don't literally think of being a Barista. I think of my early years of working in jobs I really enjoyed but didn't pay enough to support my lifestyle. Going back to them would be wonderful as long as money wasn't a factor." }, { "id": "t1_opauu67", "author": "/u/el_dulce_veneno21", "updated": "2026-06-02T11:51:22+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/opauu67/", "content": "This is exactly it. My hobby is channel swimming (21 miles plus). I barista fired into being a swim instructor from tech. Free membership to the rec center and doing something I love. I work about 20 hours a week and can train for my hobby more" }, { "id": "t1_opboe14", "author": "/u/Dear_Chemical4826", "updated": "2026-06-02T14:24:53+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/opboe14/", "content": "21 miles plus! That is probably farther than I have collectively swam in my entire life!" }, { "id": "t1_opfmo14", "author": "/u/External-Phase-7340", "updated": "2026-06-03T01:46:47+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/opfmo14/", "content": "Maybe even collectively ran for me lol" }, { "id": "t1_opcoizz", "author": "/u/NeitherNecessary5180", "updated": "2026-06-02T17:04:40+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/opcoizz/", "content": "I love this! What kinds of jobs were those that you enjoyed so much?" }, { "id": "t1_opelz4l", "author": "/u/HellfireXP", "updated": "2026-06-02T22:23:16+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/opelz4l/", "content": "A few summers I worked as a summer camp counselor. We had younger kids we were responsible for that we took around to do lots of activities - think swimming, hiking, outdoor games, etc. I would love to do that again. It didn't pay much, though.\n In that same grain of work, I might try to work for a YMCA, youth counseling or coach, or maybe even working outdoors at a National Park. Never did the last one, just seems like it would be along the same vein.\n Edit: Here's the one I participated with several decades ago. I imagine things have changed somewhat: https://montreat.org/events/clubs-26" }, { "id": "t1_opfkzga", "author": "/u/schatzi_sugoi", "updated": "2026-06-03T01:37:06+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/opfkzga/", "content": "If I had to, my version of BaristaFIRE would be to take contract/freelance jobs in my highly niche tech field. Do a contract for 6 months then relax the other 6 months." }, { "id": "t1_opgsvkj", "author": "/u/Over_Efficiency_2605", "updated": "2026-06-03T06:32:43+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/opgsvkj/", "content": "My buddies dad did this. Stayed in his industry. Split the full time shift with another guy. Worked 1 week a month for some spending money. Now he's down to just vacation coverage. Works a half a dozen weeks a year." }, { "id": "t1_oph7tg6", "author": "/u/DarkBert900", "updated": "2026-06-03T08:40:06+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/oph7tg6/", "content": "Many people wouldn't be hired for entry-level jobs, even if they wanted to. People will say they're fine with being overqualified, but it's not just skills, it's also attitude, trainability and being able to be whipped around by middle managers. That's something many 40 y/os are not equipped for." }, { "id": "t1_op97c9a", "author": "/u/Outis_metis", "updated": "2026-06-02T04:05:10+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/op97c9a/", "content": "My MIL works at a consignment boutique part time and likely spends more than her paycheck. Has young coworkers, gets to play with fun clothes, feels like part of a team.\n She is LIVING!" }, { "id": "t1_opawr9z", "author": "/u/fia_leaf", "updated": "2026-06-02T12:02:50+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/opawr9z/", "content": "Do we have the same MIL? Mine does too and she is having a blast. The shop also donates proceeds to a scholarship fund for a local school so she gets a lot of fulfillment from the work beyond socializing and decorating cool product displays." }, { "id": "t1_opawjiz", "author": "/u/SlightDogleg", "updated": "2026-06-02T12:01:33+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/opawjiz/", "content": "I just want to move from FT to PT, but in a similar professional capacity.\n Actually being a barista (or working retail) sounds like a nightmare when you're used to making $50+ per hour. And I say that as someone who worked front line retail jobs from age 16 to 25." }, { "id": "t1_opbaa8n", "author": "/u/CallItDanzig", "updated": "2026-06-02T13:16:38+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/opbaa8n/", "content": "I would kill to work 2 days a week doing what I do. Unfortunately, its just not a thing in white collar work unless you go fractional and ive no idea where to begin with that." }, { "id": "t1_opbg93w", "author": "/u/SlightDogleg", "updated": "2026-06-02T13:46:11+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/opbg93w/", "content": "The key is to convince your current employer to switch you to PT hours or find a PT job internally. The org saves money, you keep the same or similar hourly rate" }, { "id": "t1_opbjjsh", "author": "/u/girlpaint", "updated": "2026-06-02T14:02:07+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/opbjjsh/", "content": "Yeah good luck with that" }, { "id": "t1_opf5sui", "author": "/u/vulkoriscoming", "updated": "2026-06-03T00:11:04+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/opf5sui/", "content": "I have tried this. I ended up working full time for part time pay before I just went back to full time. The job requires what it requires." }, { "id": "t1_opay1ux", "author": "/u/lawyerslawyer", "updated": "2026-06-02T12:10:24+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/opay1ux/", "content": "This is a good summary. My “barista fire” involves a niche area of outdoor education in a field I’ve been active in for years. I think of it more of a side quest that happens to pay some money." }, { "id": "t1_opb94wj", "author": "/u/Onehundredpercentbea", "updated": "2026-06-02T13:10:49+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/opb94wj/", "content": "Great response! I have a list going in my mind of baristaFIRE jobs based on my interests and volunteering I've done over the years and stories people share of their own post-retirement part time work.\n There's a huge nursery by my house and they do native plant cultivation and they host lectures and gardening events with free plant giveaways, in the winter they have active long tunnel greenhouses, and about half their staff are retirees living their best lives.\n I also worked at sea for a while and there are tons of early retired professionals (accountants, lawyers, teachers) working as deck hands and cooks because they like going to sea and being relatively isolated for a few months at a time and then having a few months of chilling back home. Not cruise ships, but research, government vessels, etc. It draws such an interesting group of people.\n I also love building things and would consider a woodworking business, but that gets away from the baristaFIRE mentality and more of just a small business which is a big job in and of itself, but apprenticing myself under an established woodworker would be a great option, too." }, { "id": "t1_opcpcoj", "author": "/u/NeitherNecessary5180", "updated": "2026-06-02T17:08:14+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/opcpcoj/", "content": "I want to do something similar along the lines of native plant cultivation / restoration work!!" }, { "id": "t1_opf62f0", "author": "/u/vulkoriscoming", "updated": "2026-06-03T00:12:34+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/opf62f0/", "content": "Both of those sound interesting. Working in a greenhouse would be fun. Especially in the Winter when you can't garden outside." }, { "id": "t1_opbfv4t", "author": "/u/2Nails", "updated": "2026-06-02T13:44:18+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/opbfv4t/", "content": "barely an inconveniance" }, { "id": "t1_opbrrdd", "author": "/u/InsertNovelAnswer", "updated": "2026-06-02T14:40:26+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/opbrrdd/", "content": "Also thought of 1 other reason. Some of us have multiple jobs and want to drop down to the part time one only." }, { "id": "t1_opb3xh3", "author": "/u/peauxtheaux", "updated": "2026-06-02T12:43:29+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/opb3xh3/", "content": "Is a barista blue collar?" }, { "id": "t1_opcmrc7", "author": "/u/14ktgoldscw", "updated": "2026-06-02T16:56:58+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/opcmrc7/", "content": "To your first point, it usually doesn’t mean literally being a barista. The people I know who have done it like work at a plant nursery or vet clinic where it’s just as much “oh, I just really love being around animals and don’t mind answering phones” as it is the couple hundred bucks a week.\n Maybe you love making coffee and there’s a cute coffee shop in your town, but I don’t know anyone who has barista fired to work at Wendy’s." }, { "id": "t1_opcnznq", "author": "/u/skunimatrix", "updated": "2026-06-02T17:02:19+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/opcnznq/", "content": "I CFIred. But I primarily do Biannual Flight reviews for people around the field and Instrument Proficiency Checks. Glut of CFI’s at the moment and I figure let the kids trying to get to 1500 hours a way to build time.\n To be fair I work enough to pay for the airplane habit." }, { "id": "t1_opd84e1", "author": "/u/dumbeconomist", "updated": "2026-06-02T18:29:36+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/opd84e1/", "content": "Im this person in #1 — I am a hospital admin. I will just step down and be a part time healthcare provider again." }, { "id": "t1_opextt3", "author": "/u/plinkoplonka", "updated": "2026-06-02T23:26:25+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/opextt3/", "content": "Yep.\n I always loved working in a bar when I was younger because I find it fun, it's a great way to make friends and if you find the right place then it doesn't particularly feel like work to me.\n I can't imagine working with the general public in many other settings though." }, { "id": "t1_opc1703", "author": "/u/AllPintsNorth", "updated": "2026-06-02T15:22:50+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/opc1703/", "content": "And this sub is 95% #2, where they’ve never had to work the types of jobs they are suggesting they ‘retire’ to in their lives." }, { "id": "t1_op8f59s", "author": "/u/WWGHIAFTC", "updated": "2026-06-02T01:07:41+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/op8f59s/", "content": "I think it's a "the grass is greener" thing for some people.\n If you have a job with the stress of responsibility and staff and all that, people start to look at a 'drone job' envious.\n You are right though. The more I make the easier the jobs tend to be." }, { "id": "t1_op8hu3i", "author": "/u/kilimtilikum", "updated": "2026-06-02T01:23:43+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/op8hu3i/", "content": "I do think working at a cafe is more stressful when you are living paycheck to paycheck.\n I imagine it is less stressful when you are indifferent to getting fired.\n That said, I think the same can be said about a corporate gig. Stress goes does when you don’t care about getting fired. In fact some people start getting more promotions when they start slacking off and not caring." }, { "id": "t1_op8mswy", "author": "/u/Extension-Tap2635", "updated": "2026-06-02T01:53:32+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/op8mswy/", "content": "Came here to say this. When you don’t care about getting fired, you don’t take shit from people.\n Coincidentally, that can make you stand out and be considered more as leadership material." }, { "id": "t1_op8qobv", "author": "/u/Heelabaloo", "updated": "2026-06-02T02:16:56+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/op8qobv/", "content": "“This young man is a straight shooter with upper management written all over him. “" }, { "id": "t1_op8rhvt", "author": "/u/mthockeydad", "updated": "2026-06-02T02:21:55+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/op8rhvt/", "content": "I wouldn’t say I was missing it, Bobs." }, { "id": "t1_op932mq", "author": "/u/canonhourglass", "updated": "2026-06-02T03:36:04+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/op932mq/", "content": "You must be a fan of Michael Bolton. I celebrate his entire catalog" }, { "id": "t1_op94jem", "author": "/u/WWGHIAFTC", "updated": "2026-06-02T03:46:01+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/op94jem/", "content": "that no talent ass clown?" }, { "id": "t1_op9h67t", "author": "/u/butter_cookie_gurl", "updated": "2026-06-02T05:17:19+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/op9h67t/", "content": "Why should I change my name! He's the one who sucks." }, { "id": "t1_opc85u8", "author": "/u/mthockeydad", "updated": "2026-06-02T15:53:17+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/opc85u8/", "content": "I'll be honest with you, I love his music, I do. I'm a Michael Bolton fan. For my money, I don't know if it gets any better than when he sings 'When a Man Loves a Woman'." }, { "id": "t1_op8t5xk", "author": "/u/Human-University8635", "updated": "2026-06-02T02:32:09+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/op8t5xk/", "content": "Can confirm. 😆" }, { "id": "t1_op8q6bf", "author": "/u/worktogethernow", "updated": "2026-06-02T02:13:54+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/op8q6bf/", "content": "The lowest stress job is the one you don't need." }, { "id": "t1_opacwb4", "author": "/u/maddog2271", "updated": "2026-06-02T09:44:02+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/opacwb4/", "content": "This is an excellent answer." }, { "id": "t1_op9eby4", "author": "/u/WeakestLynx", "updated": "2026-06-02T04:55:32+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/op9eby4/", "content": "Sure, but the idea of BaristaFIRE as I understand it is that you are reliant on the job for health insurance" }, { "id": "t1_op9evu1", "author": "/u/kilimtilikum", "updated": "2026-06-02T04:59:43+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/op9evu1/", "content": "Yeah but you’re not living paycheck to paycheck, so even if you suddenly quit or even fired, it’s not that big of a deal. So in the end, a more chill life." }, { "id": "t1_opak8he", "author": "/u/poop-dolla", "updated": "2026-06-02T10:40:57+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/opak8he/", "content": "But that would be the exact same situation with your corporate job if you just kept that one. So you could be making more money and also have a more chill life by keeping the corporate job and fully retiring sooner." }, { "id": "t1_opam277", "author": "/u/kilimtilikum", "updated": "2026-06-02T10:53:54+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/opam277/", "content": "Yes and no. You certainly see people on here who end up enjoying their corporate job a lot more after reaching FI.\n There are also jobs that regardless of the stress level, grind you down with client work, over time etc.\n Both scenarios are certainly possible. To each there own~" }, { "id": "t1_opas8mh", "author": "/u/JustHere4TheZipLines", "updated": "2026-06-02T11:35:15+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/opas8mh/", "content": "Yes this is what I discovered as well. Decided to take a government job with great health benefits and a relaxed culture. If I need to work, I may as well find the most chill job." }, { "id": "t1_opf8dzo", "author": "/u/vulkoriscoming", "updated": "2026-06-03T00:25:36+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/opf8dzo/", "content": "My current well paying job is way more stressful than any of the lower paying jobs I did while in school or as a teenager. I worked in a commercial kitchen, was a janitor (loved that job, just clean stuff, no hassle, no stress), worked construction (mostly concrete work), checked at a grocery store. Now I occasionally bar tend, mostly for fun, helping out a friend. All of these jobs were fun in a way that my current job is not. But the pay sucked, except the construction job where I made really good money." }, { "id": "t1_opf7f3m", "author": "/u/vulkoriscoming", "updated": "2026-06-03T00:20:12+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/opf7f3m/", "content": "Unless you have chronic conditions, health insurance is more of a "just in case" thing. So you don't "really need" the job. It is just good to have." }, { "id": "t1_op91fth", "author": "/u/RecentState1347", "updated": "2026-06-02T03:25:11+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/op91fth/", "content": "I’m confused about all the comments saying that baristafire folks don’t actually need their barista jobs. If that’s the case, and you’re totally ambivalent to working there to the point that you don’t do the job properly and get fired - why bother?" }, { "id": "t1_op95duy", "author": "/u/kilimtilikum", "updated": "2026-06-02T03:51:45+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/op95duy/", "content": "They do the job properly. The point isn’t ambivalence, it’s doing a chill job with low ‘on the job’ stress as well as have enough money to not have the financial stress." }, { "id": "t1_opa09zn", "author": "/u/Spirited_Ball6763", "updated": "2026-06-02T07:54:38+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/opa09zn/", "content": "So my plan would be to use the barista fire job to cover my wants/fun stuff.\n At my current job I don't work summers. I run biking delivery orders as a side gig a few days a week while off for the summer. This would be my baristaFIRE job. Mostly because I enjoy it; it's an easy way to keep active(and I could just plan my own bike rides, but its really nice to just offload that work and get paid as a bonus).\n Another situation I see is a lot of people have jobs they would genuinely enjoy, but it doesn't pay enough to support the lifestyle they want. So some people plan to move to that job once they have enough money to not care about the pay. (I see this a lot with the sorts of jobs that would provide housing at fun places - ski resorts, cruise ships, etc. It becomes a way to travel and/or live different places with much less savings required than just say traveling to ski resorts a lot.)." }, { "id": "t1_opamtbm", "author": "/u/Kitchen_Pea_5575", "updated": "2026-06-02T10:59:06+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/opamtbm/", "content": "The point is, they don’t need it the way someone needs a $150k corporate job.\n If you get fired from being a barista, you can usually get another barista or barista-adjacent position very easily and quickly. Sometimes getting another corporate position at the same salary after being fired is not easy or possible." }, { "id": "t1_opao85s", "author": "/u/purple_mountain_cat", "updated": "2026-06-02T11:08:47+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/opao85s/", "content": "Yeah IMO it's the (otherwise) personal time that I'm spending standing around for someone else's benefit. I want control of my time again, I don't care about making a few hundred dollars per week. Employer-sponsored health care plans tho..." }, { "id": "t1_opb388q", "author": "/u/oracleofnonsense", "updated": "2026-06-02T12:39:39+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/opb388q/", "content": "My last bonuses and evaluations have been stellar.\n I stopped working after 4:30 (except rare occasions). I’m thinking about stopping my day at 3:30." }, { "id": "t1_opc0vwx", "author": "/u/WWGHIAFTC", "updated": "2026-06-02T15:21:29+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/opc0vwx/", "content": "True. Every job (life in general) is more stressful paycheck to paycheck.\n I'm in a weird in between where I don't have to care too much, but can't quit yet...lol. Forcing myself to care enough to do the job is getting tougher and tougher." }, { "id": "t1_op8g5n2", "author": "/u/Total-Cheesecake-244", "updated": "2026-06-02T01:13:38+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/op8g5n2/", "content": "yeah the higher paying jobs definitely have better work environment most of time. i worked in retail for few years during university and management was just constantly breathing down your neck about everything. now in my psychology program when i do research assistant work the professors actually treat you like human being\n but i think some people just want different kind of stress? like maybe dealing with difficult customers is better than dealing with quarterly reports and board meetings for some personalities. though personally i'd rather have the money and deal with corporate nonsense than go back to minimum wage drama" }, { "id": "t1_op8iz41", "author": "/u/nothatsmyarm", "updated": "2026-06-02T01:30:32+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/op8iz41/", "content": "The thing I remember fondly about my minimum wage jobs is that the work ends. When my shift ends, so does my need to care about it.\n In the jobs I have had since, the work never truly ends. I am, at least in part, somewhat always plugged in or connected to the various headaches arising out of my job. The only time that stops is when I change jobs and then it starts anew with new problems.\n Of course, they pay me well for that anxiety. But that’s the upside to retail work." }, { "id": "t1_op8k3j8", "author": "/u/warlizardfanboy", "updated": "2026-06-02T01:37:17+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/op8k3j8/", "content": "This 100% I’ve gotten a slack at 10 pm on a Saturday" }, { "id": "t1_op9eoyo", "author": "/u/Honest-Fortune2920", "updated": "2026-06-02T04:58:18+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/op9eoyo/", "content": "It's not really any better in much of the trades either, at least on the heavy equipment side of things.\n Someone calls in sick? Gotta scramble to cover the job because not doing it isn't an option.\n Or like, taking care of the equipment. I've sat bolt upright in my sleep at 3am to text someone that I forgot to put a machine back together and he needs to not take it out of the yard until it gets fixed.\n Or a machine needs to go out in the morning for a job that only it can do, so you're up to your arms in grease trying to fix a truck at 2am." }, { "id": "t1_opa6nhs", "author": "/u/Strazdas1", "updated": "2026-06-02T08:50:19+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/opa6nhs/", "content": "Ive sent a slack at 10 pm on saturday. I completely expect everyone to ignore it till monday." }, { "id": "t1_opbsgd4", "author": "/u/nothatsmyarm", "updated": "2026-06-02T14:43:33+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/opbsgd4/", "content": "I’m not saying you can’t (and I’ve done it too, to make sure whatever thing doesn’t slip my mind). But I know a slack/email I’ve received is there. I can’t unknow that fact." }, { "id": "t1_opbuz2y", "author": "/u/Strazdas1", "updated": "2026-06-02T14:55:00+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/opbuz2y/", "content": "Well i dont know how your employer situation is set up, but when people shut down their work machines here they wont see any new messages until they turn them back on the next day. Me working on a sunday to finish something and sending a message that i finished it is on me, they wont see it." }, { "id": "t1_opc5oan", "author": "/u/rechnen", "updated": "2026-06-02T15:42:25+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/opc5oan/", "content": "A lot of people put work email, teams, slack on their phone but I never did and it hasn't been a problem." }, { "id": "t1_opdgbv8", "author": "/u/nothatsmyarm", "updated": "2026-06-02T19:05:45+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/opdgbv8/", "content": "Depends a lot on the industry, I imagine. In mine, to do such a thing would mean you have to be constantly opening and checking your email on a laptop." }, { "id": "t1_opdg3bi", "author": "/u/nothatsmyarm", "updated": "2026-06-02T19:04:41+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/opdg3bi/", "content": "In my industry, doing such a thing would result in horrible consequences from a business perspective and result in my getting fired." }, { "id": "t1_ophhue6", "author": "/u/Strazdas1", "updated": "2026-06-03T10:05:29+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/ophhue6/", "content": "The sending message on sunday or not reading message till monday?" }, { "id": "t1_opfdmup", "author": "/u/Unlikely-Alt-9383", "updated": "2026-06-03T00:55:16+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/opfdmup/", "content": "There’s a scheduled send option for that. Next to the send button" }, { "id": "t1_opc5dwt", "author": "/u/rechnen", "updated": "2026-06-02T15:41:09+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/opc5dwt/", "content": "I just never put anything work-related on my phone and don't turn on my laptop on the weekend unless I was already planning on working to make up hours or something. Most of my coworkers have my cell number if there's something truly urgent but they've never contacted me about work outside of work hours." }, { "id": "t1_opecie7", "author": "/u/warlizardfanboy", "updated": "2026-06-02T21:35:17+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/opecie7/", "content": "cybersecurity, it's just the nature of my job. I was told up front but it's getting old." }, { "id": "t1_op8lwbg", "author": "/u/Ukelele-in-the-rain", "updated": "2026-06-02T01:48:09+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/op8lwbg/", "content": "The ability to truly disconnect start to seems super attractive at some point. Even if I logically know I have it “easier” now" }, { "id": "t1_opa3hi8", "author": "/u/stentordoctor", "updated": "2026-06-02T08:22:34+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/opa3hi8/", "content": "It is interesting that I had to scroll this far to find this comment. At my big girl job, I wake up to emails, and I go to sleep thinking about process/problems in lab. When I worked at Baskin Robbins, the only thing that comes home with me is my uniform." }, { "id": "t1_opds9na", "author": "/u/ChamferedWobble", "updated": "2026-06-02T20:00:20+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/opds9na/", "content": "When I worked at Baskin Robbins, the only thing that comes home with me is my uniform.\n Antman got to take home a free ice cream (or maybe it was a shake) when he was fired from Baskin Robbins." }, { "id": "t1_opdtrjh", "author": "/u/stentordoctor", "updated": "2026-06-02T20:07:21+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/opdtrjh/", "content": "I quit so no free ice cream 🤣" }, { "id": "t1_opgievu", "author": "/u/ONOTHEWONTONS", "updated": "2026-06-03T05:11:17+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/opgievu/", "content": "This, the mental tasks never end or turn off, maybe briefly during the weekend or on pto, but so rare." }, { "id": "t1_op9me36", "author": "/u/iguessithappens", "updated": "2026-06-02T05:58:34+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/op9me36/", "content": "I remember really liking my co-workers and it was just fun!" }, { "id": "t1_op8l4ou", "author": "/u/justly_tuneful", "updated": "2026-06-02T01:43:30+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/op8l4ou/", "content": "This! Different kind of stress is a real thing, and is a great example of grass is always greener.\n If you have spent 15 years playing corporate cosplay, switching to a role as a literal barista in a coffee shop will bring you just different stress.\n Examples! 1. In a coffee shop you will still have a manager. They will correct you for VERY dumb things you did wrong: pouring from the wrong iced coffee vat, filling the drip pot with too much/little, not offering the daily specials… things that are objectively dumb, but you have to care about 2. In corporationville, your manager will tell you to set goals and demonstrate company values and bring value to shareholders. You will do this, and at bonus season, be told you didn’t do enough of something else, and are not worthy of that shiny promotion yet. 3. In a coffee shop, you will probably never be fired, unless you do something horrible. But you will get hit on by gross people and have to clean up poop off the walls sometimes and your Monday (Sunday?) scaries will be real. 4. In corporationville, you will get laid off, eventually and the fear of not knowing when will haunt you ever day." }, { "id": "t1_op8us6f", "author": "/u/Adventurous_Fix_6897", "updated": "2026-06-02T02:42:15+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/op8us6f/", "content": "Lol you illustrated your examples so well!" }, { "id": "t1_opa6jzw", "author": "/u/Strazdas1", "updated": "2026-06-02T08:49:28+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/opa6jzw/", "content": "When they already pat you a lot, its relatively cheap to fix up the enviroment." }, { "id": "t1_opakthl", "author": "/u/poop-dolla", "updated": "2026-06-02T10:45:07+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/opakthl/", "content": "but i think some people just want different kind of stress? like maybe dealing with difficult customers is better than dealing with quarterly reports and board meetings for some personalities. though personally i'd rather have the money and deal with corporate nonsense than go back to minimum wage drama\n No, I think it’s just people wearing rose tinted glasses while looking at those jobs and pretending none of the negatives actually exist." }, { "id": "t1_op8nbj1", "author": "/u/BigOil88", "updated": "2026-06-02T01:56:39+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/op8nbj1/", "content": "Knew an hourly colleague that drove a forklift was a little bit strange but a very nice gentleman. He internalized that job and owned it 100%. He was not the only one.\n High paying jobs deal with huge amounts of bullshit. C-Suite has an increased narcissistic level that was documented by somebody researching IIR . It’s not the level of prisons, but it’s up there ! Not everybody in those roles because of competence. Not a good topic for Reddit discourse either.\n Source- family member.\n I had a close associate supervised a warehouse. Got to know some of the guys and gals that worked in the warehouse driving forklift loaded truck managing logistics. (We were handling some engineering modifications on the facility.)\n And these were union jobs that paid well and you really couldn’t be fired unless you were absolutely horrible or had drug or other issues outside work. The guy that internalized a job that I knew better had an English degree. But believe me, he made a lot more money doing that forklift than he would have teaching at a private school—which was his other option at the time. Edit-spelling’" }, { "id": "t1_op8nyi8", "author": "/u/redditmailalex", "updated": "2026-06-02T02:00:31+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/op8nyi8/", "content": "I think its also a change of scenery. Thats a bonus, not a false promise.\n Some comments here seem to like their work environment, social level of it, stress, whatever. If thats the case, then barrista fire is less attractive.\n For some people, i imagine barristafi might be contract work in tech, art, or trades... and that might be an outlet they simopy want to explore before they die.\n But the concept that finding your barrista job solves all your problems or eliminates stress or something is a fairy tale.\n I can see myself working a volunteer or non profit job for a small paycheck." }, { "id": "t1_op9vzhq", "author": "/u/jchamberlin78", "updated": "2026-06-02T07:17:30+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/op9vzhq/", "content": "Yeah, I'd rather work 1-5 years making FU money than clocking in and doing a barista fire job.\n I worked at a speciality store for the discounted product a few years back. The disruption to my schedule/lack of stable work times killed my free/social time.\n Did the math, a 1-2 extra hours at the office replaced the discounts/income "benefits" I was getting. And honestly, I don't even realize when I put in those hours." }, { "id": "t1_opagne6", "author": "/u/Reaper-fromabove", "updated": "2026-06-02T10:14:00+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/opagne6/", "content": "Don’t remember where I heard this but the grass is not greener, it’s a different shade of green. Meaning we tend to fantasize about what the other side looks like." }, { "id": "t1_op8w63l", "author": "/u/Fancy_Gate_7359", "updated": "2026-06-02T02:50:55+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/op8w63l/", "content": "I really truly think most people who seem to want to do this haven’t worked these kinds of jobs. They just assume it would be kind of fun. Almost no one who actually works at a coffee shop likes it, it sucks." }, { "id": "t1_op9rimi", "author": "/u/Lost_Wealth_6278", "updated": "2026-06-02T06:40:31+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/op9rimi/", "content": "there are plenty of corporate jobs where you don't take responsibility and don't have to deal with people, though.\n I was a 20h/week CAD draftsman for a start up as my first job in school. Stress/hour wise still the best job I ever had. Wake up at 7, draft a few plans until 12, log out. If you ever want a long weekend, get your shit done until Tuesday - only takes another hour per day.\n People were chill, pay was shit but enough to sustain a students life and for some reason people have been treating it as relevant work experience ever since, esentially giving me a three year head start" }, { "id": "t1_op8frbe", "author": "/u/Eltex", "updated": "2026-06-02T01:11:15+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/op8frbe/", "content": "Working at Starbucks for 40hrs a week would suck.\n Working at “Cocktails” serving drinks on the beach for 12 hours a week might be awesome." }, { "id": "t1_op8idlh", "author": "/u/bimm3r36", "updated": "2026-06-02T01:26:56+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/op8idlh/", "content": "Yeah I worked in a coffee shop in college and it was honestly kinda tough work, plus the customers are generally grumpy.\n On the other hand, bartending is also relatively taxing, but wayyyy more fun and I would do it part time if I could have some control over my schedule." }, { "id": "t1_op918ky", "author": "/u/jimbeam_and_caviar", "updated": "2026-06-02T03:23:50+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/op918ky/", "content": "Out bartender at the bowling alley could not have given the slightest fk about anything in the world, but it was a very chill vibe and it fit in. Def gotta pick the right bar, some places just attract drama and stress" }, { "id": "t1_opb9hoh", "author": "/u/Onehundredpercentbea", "updated": "2026-06-02T13:12:38+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/opb9hoh/", "content": "I bartended for a while and made bank, I would totally do it for RE in like an Irish pub or something, less so a hotel bar where people are super finicky." }, { "id": "t1_op8ib77", "author": "/u/mistake444", "updated": "2026-06-02T01:26:32+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/op8ib77/", "content": "Part time budtender is pretty fun" }, { "id": "t1_op8lkso", "author": "/u/Beaver-on-fire", "updated": "2026-06-02T01:46:12+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/op8lkso/", "content": "I want to try this." }, { "id": "t1_op908gi", "author": "/u/CelebrationNo1242", "updated": "2026-06-02T03:17:13+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/op908gi/", "content": "Yea most my friends working third wave coffee shops love it minus the low pay, which is of course not an issue during barista fire" }, { "id": "t1_opa7dbz", "author": "/u/Strazdas1", "updated": "2026-06-02T08:56:34+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/opa7dbz/", "content": "thats 12 hours serving, 12 hours setup/teardown, 4 hours management screaming at you for tiniest mistakes." }, { "id": "t1_opb8v1m", "author": "/u/bobjoylove", "updated": "2026-06-02T13:09:25+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/opb8v1m/", "content": "Isn’t bar work mostly your evenings and weekends?" }, { "id": "t1_opbosb6", "author": "/u/nothatsmyarm", "updated": "2026-06-02T14:26:42+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/opbosb6/", "content": "Someone’s gotta tend bar from noon to 7pm, and I imagine (given the low tip opportunity) those shifts are not in particularly heavy demand." }, { "id": "t1_opbe49m", "author": "/u/Eltex", "updated": "2026-06-02T13:35:42+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/opbe49m/", "content": "I have been known to throw back a drink or two in daylight hours. But if I was planning on working part time, I would try to get a schedule that works for me at that time on my life." }, { "id": "t1_opcwd5g", "author": "/u/bobjoylove", "updated": "2026-06-02T17:38:35+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/opcwd5g/", "content": "Surely the choice slots (midweek, reasonable time) are not given to the newbies." }, { "id": "t1_opdhg84", "author": "/u/nothatsmyarm", "updated": "2026-06-02T19:10:50+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/opdhg84/", "content": "I’m not sure those are choice slots, from a money perspective. If you’re looking to maximize money bartending, do you want to work Friday at 9pm or Tuesday at 3pm?\n Not to pull too NSFW an example, but the A-team strippers go on from 9pm to 4am on Friday and Saturday. The ones on-stage at 4pm on a Wednesday…it’s a different set." }, { "id": "t1_opf6uxy", "author": "/u/vulkoriscoming", "updated": "2026-06-03T00:17:02+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/opf6uxy/", "content": "Bartending is a ton of fun. I really enjoy doing it from time to time. It is mostly chatting with people and making/pouring drinks. But like a lot of things that are fun part time when you don't need the money, doing it 40 hours a week and trying to make a living at it probably really sucks." }, { "id": "t1_op8mu8z", "author": "/u/AgreeablePeanut09", "updated": "2026-06-02T01:53:46+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/op8mu8z/", "content": "The servers at SoHo House Miami would say otherwise" }, { "id": "t1_opdbob6", "author": "/u/ZjY5MjFk", "updated": "2026-06-02T18:45:11+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/opdbob6/", "content": "In fact, the low paying jobs were always way more toxic than my high paying jobs.\n This is the thing people forget. Yea, office jobs suck, but generally treat you with dignity and respect. Many times I was late or had to take off early due to appointments, family duties, etc and office jobs just don't give a shit most of the time aslong as you communicate that and nothing big is going on. I got paid vacation and sick days, etc.\n I also worked fast food and retail when I was younger. They treat you like shit. They'll write you up for being 5 minutes late. No or very little paid time off. Shift/schedule irregularities. Plus, customers are assholes and treat you like garbage.\n yea, office jobs are stressful, but generally tolerable. Plus they make like... 2 to 10 times more than some shitty barista job. In other words, 1 year working at your office job is like 2 to 10 years as a barista. Time wise it's a no-brainier, it's just way more efficient. Plus they have 401K match, health insurance, etc" }, { "id": "t1_op8gkir", "author": "/u/MeaT_DepartmenT_", "updated": "2026-06-02T01:16:07+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/op8gkir/", "content": "My retired dad works at a Greenhouse 3 days a week making $18 an hour. He enjoys it and stays active and busy. I could see myself doing something like that once I have a million dollars" }, { "id": "t1_op9nm11", "author": "/u/hazardzetforward", "updated": "2026-06-02T06:08:26+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/op9nm11/", "content": "This. But a bookstore or library." }, { "id": "t1_opahhqz", "author": "/u/ExposedId", "updated": "2026-06-02T10:20:26+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/opahhqz/", "content": "My mom did the library route. It didn’t pay much, but she loves books and has been a regular at the library. She did that for about 10-12 years." }, { "id": "t1_opcoid6", "author": "/u/captelroysilus", "updated": "2026-06-02T17:04:35+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/opcoid6/", "content": "A state park would be my dream!" }, { "id": "t1_opf5bie", "author": "/u/Fishb20", "updated": "2026-06-03T00:08:22+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/opf5bie/", "content": "FYI you're going to really struggle to find a job at a library in the current environment. You're gonna be up against a lot of people who have MLIS degrees that need to work multiple part time library jobs to make ends meet before they can get a proper full time library job" }, { "id": "t1_opauf65", "author": "/u/justchinnin", "updated": "2026-06-02T11:48:49+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/opauf65/", "content": "My neighbor retired and worked part time at a golf course. Got him active and socializing, some extra money, and he could play for free" }, { "id": "t1_opbyt9l", "author": "/u/MeaT_DepartmenT_", "updated": "2026-06-02T15:12:16+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/opbyt9l/", "content": "Getting to play for free probably saved him thousands. Doesn’t sound bad at all" }, { "id": "t1_op8hvow", "author": "/u/HugeDramatic", "updated": "2026-06-02T01:23:58+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/op8hvow/", "content": "You’re taking ‘barista fire’ way too literally…\n Prior to my last 15 years in my current career role, I worked as a facilitator at an art gallery in a children’s art program, worked at a library and as a record keeping clerk at a small medical clinic.\n All of those jobs were low stress and good for social interaction and physical activity. None of them paid well, but if the goal is simply to work 2-3 days a week and cover some bills, while staying active and social they were ideal and I’d be happy to do them again.\n I can think of dozens more jobs that might fit the scope of ‘barista fire’ without requiring running around a busy Starbucks on a 9-5.\n Once I retire I’m hoping to get more outdoor activity time, and would probably apply for a federal parks job or at a golf course." }, { "id": "t1_op8ncom", "author": "/u/Thelonius_Dunk", "updated": "2026-06-02T01:56:50+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/op8ncom/", "content": "Yea thats how I see it too. I would even consider jobs semi-related to my career as well, since the pay would be a non factor at that point." }, { "id": "t1_opbnqfp", "author": "/u/candlelitmorning", "updated": "2026-06-02T14:21:53+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/opbnqfp/", "content": "My brother is fired and just started working as park ranger. Yesterday a horse partially fell through a bridge and his job was to help the horse out. Horse is fine. He did some volunteer search and rescue work before becoming a ranger." }, { "id": "t1_opbcn6g", "author": "/u/heridfel37", "updated": "2026-06-02T13:28:21+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/opbcn6g/", "content": "My uncle took a semi-voluntary retirement from teaching (but kept coaching) and got a job mowing at the golf course" }, { "id": "t1_open233", "author": "/u/betweenstarsandsea", "updated": "2026-06-02T22:28:47+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/open233/", "content": "My grandmother worked on a farm, and as she and my grandfather grew older, she realized she needed some kind of longer-term income stream in her twilight years. It wasn't much, but she put in 10 years of work as a lunchlady for a school cafeteria in order to qualify for Social Security. She loved the work, daily routine, coworkers, and students. This is similar to what I envision in 10 years - finding a part-time job that continues to contribute to SS while also tapping into an interest of mine or some kind of meaningful community involvement." }, { "id": "t1_opfmjbo", "author": "/u/silly_bet_3454", "updated": "2026-06-03T01:46:01+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/opfmjbo/", "content": "I'm happy for you, but understand that you were super lucky to get that job. I'm guessing your employer only employs one person in your particular role, and lots of other galleries don't necessarily even have one. More generally, there are only so many fun, social, low stress jobs out there and everybody wants them.\n I know I personally would never land any kind of job in that ballpark because I'm like the basement dwelling engineer type, so for me this picture of barista fire would never make any sense." }, { "id": "t1_op8f0e5", "author": "/u/VinylHighway", "updated": "2026-06-02T01:06:53+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/op8f0e5/", "content": "Agreed. I'm not fucking spending 8 hours a day serving coffee." }, { "id": "t1_op8yipk", "author": "/u/guerrerov", "updated": "2026-06-02T03:05:55+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/op8yipk/", "content": "I’ve worked dry wall, general construction, barista, cafeteria and fast food jobs, to working as a research assistant, research coordinator and now a senior analyst.\n Being a barista has been by far my most favorite job. I love coffee, and working at a neighborhood cafe let me chat and befriend a lot of my neighborhood. I know the pay is pretty mediocre but I am literally waiting to save enough money and barista FIRE somewhere like Mexico City or Guadalajara.\n I am also naturally a morning person so a job that would let me clock in at 6am and be out by 2 is my ideal." }, { "id": "t1_opa2i3b", "author": "/u/Alexsrobin", "updated": "2026-06-02T08:13:55+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/opa2i3b/", "content": "Are you a senior analyst in research? Do you like it? (Asking as a current research coordinator who's trying to figure out a career path)" }, { "id": "t1_opbtmtb", "author": "/u/guerrerov", "updated": "2026-06-02T14:48:56+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/opbtmtb/", "content": "I worked as a research assistant and then coordinator in hopes of getting into a PhD program. The hours were long and the pay was bad, but the work was interesting. I found that in order to be compensated well in research you really need a PhD, even then the path is difficult and takes years to do, it’s so much easier becoming a doctor with guaranteed payout. I have friends who complete PhD only to work in unrelated industries but are now doing well for themselves now. Others move out of academia and go into industry, only one of my friends is still in it for an academic position.\n After I failed to get into a PhD program I pivoted to be a research coordinator for a startup where I worked closely with the data science team. I learned some of those skills and now work as a market analyst. The pay is great, work life balance is pretty good and the work can be interested. But at the end of the day it’s just trying to make rich people even more money instead of trying to answer an interest science question. So I can’t answer what being a research analyst in a research setting would be like, but those skills are transferable to other industries." }, { "id": "t1_opfl5w6", "author": "/u/rfmjbs", "updated": "2026-06-03T01:38:08+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/opfl5w6/", "content": "Shoe sales at Payless was a ton of fun nights and weekends. I miss the fun chats with kids to find shoes" }, { "id": "t1_opayy67", "author": "/u/SlightDogleg", "updated": "2026-06-02T12:15:33+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/opayy67/", "content": "Standing on your feet for 8 hours a day, hunched over a counter, in your 50s would fucking suck.\n It sucked when I was 19. Couldn't imagine the neck and hip pain now." }, { "id": "t1_opb97q4", "author": "/u/bobjoylove", "updated": "2026-06-02T13:11:13+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/opb97q4/", "content": "This is an important point. Hadn’t thought about age related concerns." }, { "id": "t1_op8g56f", "author": "/u/damiana8", "updated": "2026-06-02T01:13:33+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/op8g56f/", "content": "Doing customer service after I retire is the best way I can think of to hate my life" }, { "id": "t1_op8go2f", "author": "/u/enigmaticowl94", "updated": "2026-06-02T01:16:43+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/op8go2f/", "content": "Barista fire doesn’t necessarily mean go work at a high-traffic Starbucks at peak hours while you stress that if you screw something up a shitty manager will fire you. It means that you can be selective and find a chill part time environment, of course they are rare but you’re in a position to not need to jump into whatever crappy slightly above minimum wage corporate job you need to grab to pay the bills. What that means looks a bit different to everybody, but the attitude is a huge part of it." }, { "id": "t1_op95b42", "author": "/u/SlimFilter12", "updated": "2026-06-02T03:51:14+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/op95b42/", "content": "Exactly. Working as a batista or a bartender in a chill spot sounds like a really good idea. I've worked as a batista in a very very busy beach cafe. It was hard but for some reason fun. The crazy atmosphere and vibe is fun" }, { "id": "t1_opeyzvz", "author": "/u/chewychevy", "updated": "2026-06-02T23:32:52+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/opeyzvz/", "content": "To add to this almost all people in Barista fire are indeed spending the time to look for a job that is either doing something they enjoy or are in an environment they enjoy...maybe both! It took me 9 months of searching and applying before I started my first day of part-time work.\n Few are choosing to stay a part-time job they hate. Those that likely are hate the Barista job less than whatever job they had before." }, { "id": "t1_op8i5xv", "author": "/u/WNBA_YOUNGGIRL", "updated": "2026-06-02T01:25:40+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/op8i5xv/", "content": "I have come to the conclusion that it just makes sense to have some one more year syndrome. That may sound crazy but if you can run up the numbers a little more or delay pulling in a down market it smoothes out a lot of issues.\n One extra year of working would be like 5 years of a barista job for me" }, { "id": "t1_op8pyp4", "author": "/u/NA_Faker", "updated": "2026-06-02T02:12:37+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/op8pyp4/", "content": "Two or three days of working a corporate job likely will make you more than a whole month of working part time retail... you are looking at a couple of hundred bucks a month working retail if you are a SWE your hourly rate will likely make you more in two or three days" }, { "id": "t1_op8n1od", "author": "/u/Future-Run-8601", "updated": "2026-06-02T01:55:01+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/op8n1od/", "content": "Same. Not just for portfolio size but I have been playing around with social security AIME calculations as well. I’ve worked an on-and-off side gig over the past 6-7 years and would probably be able/willing to work 5-10 hours a week after retirement from corporate life. I make $80 an hour so it’s real money. Even still, I’d need to work 4-8 years of that job to make up for the AIME increase by working just one more year of corporate life. I still think that I’ll do it for the social and problem solving stimulation but it’s really not going to reduce my timeline until I fire. I’d rather just stretch out one more year and put my entire paycheck that year into cash/bonds.." }, { "id": "t1_opb1r11", "author": "/u/SlightDogleg", "updated": "2026-06-02T12:31:26+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/opb1r11/", "content": "Same math for me. I'd need to work 4-5 years at a retail job to match one year's salary at my current FT office job (I make around $100k/yr).\n Maybe even as much as 7 years, as FT hours at a retail job are hard to come by for new employees, and you'd lose out on a lot of compounding interest." }, { "id": "t1_opcfchd", "author": "/u/WNBA_YOUNGGIRL", "updated": "2026-06-02T16:24:37+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/opcfchd/", "content": "Oh yes these were just really quick numbers. When I hit my peak earning years it probably would be something like 7 years of a barista fi job for 1 year of the corporate job" }, { "id": "t1_op8iuap", "author": "/u/cfi-2025", "updated": "2026-06-02T01:29:43+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/op8iuap/", "content": "Am I misremembering things? Am I too old?\n My memory is that BaristaFIRE was a term coined before ACA, back in the dark days where health insurance was tied to your job. The premise was that you could quit your higher-paying, higher-stress job when you had enough to cover your expenses but still needed health care. Namely, you could work part-time at Starbucks and get health insurance and other benefits, hence the name.\n The terminology is a misnomer these days, given that you can get excellent ACA coverage for basically free if you can dial in your MAGI. Twenty years ago, that wasn't an option. Early retirement meant years of having to either forgo health care, settle for an affordable catastrophic plan, or find some other alternative." }, { "id": "t1_op9uia3", "author": "/u/ThirstyWolfSpider", "updated": "2026-06-02T07:05:08+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/op9uia3/", "content": "Alternately, I gladly pay full-price ACA in retirement to avoid having to work a job, let alone a thankless retail/service job.\n But yes, the "how can I get health insurance?" was my recollection of the whole point of BaristaFIRE, as individual plans were often unavailable, otherwise ludicrously-priced, and that problem disappeared once you could just buy coverage from a market." }, { "id": "t1_opanss2", "author": "/u/CheeseFries92", "updated": "2026-06-02T11:05:51+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/opanss2/", "content": "Agreed on both accounts. That's how it used to be. Now, we pay full price for family coverage on an aca plan, budget accordingly, and don't have to work at Starbucks unless we want to (and right now, we prefer higher hourly rate consulting work)" }, { "id": "t1_opbpqiq", "author": "/u/nothatsmyarm", "updated": "2026-06-02T14:31:07+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/opbpqiq/", "content": "That is what it used to mean, but as with all things language it has evolved over time to have a slightly different meaning.\n Much of FIRE has mutated in this way." }, { "id": "t1_op8pumb", "author": "/u/Smart-Republic-5538", "updated": "2026-06-02T02:11:56+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/op8pumb/", "content": "Throwaway, but how do you dial in your MAGI if you need unemployment and unemployment is based on what your salary was, say 50% of 80k a year(previous salary)? The plans I see on the ACA are 300 a month- do you think that's reasonable? I was hoping for Medicaid." }, { "id": "t1_opab31z", "author": "/u/Consistent_Frame_531", "updated": "2026-06-02T09:28:41+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/opab31z/", "content": "300/month is very reasonable" }, { "id": "t1_op8gd3t", "author": "/u/PantsMicGee", "updated": "2026-06-02T01:14:52+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/op8gd3t/", "content": "More like sell seeds at a local garden store and FIRE." }, { "id": "t1_opbcsee", "author": "/u/heridfel37", "updated": "2026-06-02T13:29:05+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/opbcsee/", "content": "I'm all aboard for GardenerFIRE" }, { "id": "t1_opbpv7l", "author": "/u/wh0re4nickelback", "updated": "2026-06-02T14:31:44+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/opbpv7l/", "content": "I plan to smoke a lot of weed when I retire. Does that count as GardenerFIRE?" }, { "id": "t1_opdtuxl", "author": "/u/asymphonyin2parts", "updated": "2026-06-02T20:07:47+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/opdtuxl/", "content": "Are you growing it first? Then I would say yes. You're just a very specific type of gardener." }, { "id": "t1_opdkaz6", "author": "/u/PantsMicGee", "updated": "2026-06-02T19:23:50+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/opdkaz6/", "content": "I mean. No?" }, { "id": "t1_op8fsoh", "author": "/u/Artistic-Ad165", "updated": "2026-06-02T01:11:29+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/op8fsoh/", "content": "Fully agreed.\n I think anyone considering it should at least read "Nickel and Dimed" by Barbara Ehrenreich. She was a journalist who went 'undercover' working various low-wage professions, and documented how just about everything is stacked against you at that level. As you said, unless you have a sure thing lined up, this is probably not a good plan for a happy life." }, { "id": "t1_op8hbiq", "author": "/u/cfi-2025", "updated": "2026-06-02T01:20:37+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/op8hbiq/", "content": "FWIW, in Nickel and Dimed , Ehrenreich took on jobs I don't think people considering barista FIRE would sign up for - working as a cashier at WalMart, working as a house cleaner, and so on.\n Granted, I think most people romanticize what barista FIRE would entail, and their expectations are a far cry from reality. But working 20 hours at Starbucks to get health insurance - which is where the term originated from, although I don't know if Starbucks even does this anymore - is a lot different than working 60+ hours a week as a house cleaner." }, { "id": "t1_op8ijsc", "author": "/u/BlackAsphaltRider", "updated": "2026-06-02T01:27:57+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/op8ijsc/", "content": "I worked at Starbucks. You have to work 32+ hours to be considered full time and be eligible for benefits and they won’t schedule that often unless you’re management.\n And they pool your tips and split it amongst all staff once a week. Literally came out to $12-$20 a week lmao.\n Compared to Honey Dew in cape cod where I used to spend summers. We got tipped out per shift. I was making $11 an hour back in 2009, but making $50-$60 per shift unclaimed cash tips. I worked 5a-12p.\n I was making more then, $650ish a week selling coffee than I was in 2023 as a full time insurance sales rep. And my days were done at fucking noon lol." }, { "id": "t1_op8j7nk", "author": "/u/Artistic-Ad165", "updated": "2026-06-02T01:31:57+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/op8j7nk/", "content": "Fair enough. And to further denigrate my own argument, some of the problems Ehrenreich noted were due to being so poor that everything was expensive: for instance not having money for deposit to rent an apartment -> have to live in a cheap motel and therefore not have a kitchen -> have to eat out (junk food) all the time. Someone going for Barista FIRE would have a nest egg, and hence not have that problem.\n But I do stand by the conclusion; bosses are just as eager to take advantage of low-wage employees as ever and things like zero-hour contracts make it harder to have a stable life. So still, unless you have a good place lined up, relying on a low-wage crutch is probably not as good as it seems on paper." }, { "id": "t1_op8k6ry", "author": "/u/cfi-2025", "updated": "2026-06-02T01:37:49+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/op8k6ry/", "content": "Agreed. And not to gatekeep, but should Barista FIRE even be a thing? If you have to work then you are not FI, no?\n As I also noted in another comment, the term is a misnomer, as it originated prior to ACA and was an option to "retire" from the stressful job but still have a way to get health insurance (e.g., working at Starbucks part time to get health insurance, hence the name). With ACA, though, you no longer need a job to secure health insurance." }, { "id": "t1_opago01", "author": "/u/Historical-Intern-19", "updated": "2026-06-02T10:14:08+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/opago01/", "content": "ACA is insanely expensive now. Getting a 'fun job' whatever that looks like for you, to get insurance is completely worth it. One of my kids just got a PT job that even offers insurance." }, { "id": "t1_opcuwzj", "author": "/u/cfi-2025", "updated": "2026-06-02T17:32:20+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/opcuwzj/", "content": "ACA is insanely expensive now.\n ACA is "free" if you can control your MAGI.\n For example, a single 50-year old male in Southern California whose MAGI is $25,000 can get a Bronze HMO plan for $0 in premiums. Granted, there is a $5,800 yearly deductible, but if you are healthy you may never need to use it outside of preventative care (which is covered 100%).\n But to your point, ACA is definitely more expensive today than it was 15 years ago, yes. That's true for all health insurance. For example, Medicare spending by the Federal government has more than doubled in the last 15 years." }, { "id": "t1_opdp9ml", "author": "/u/Apostrophe_Now", "updated": "2026-06-02T19:46:39+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/opdp9ml/", "content": "That book was about trying to live on minimum wage and how the inability to pay for things and having to put up with whatever you could get made everything worse and compounded. Someone FIREd would be in an entirely different financial situation.\n I think people are talking past each other in these various comments: everyone can probably agree that a demeaning retail job where you're screamed at and have no control over your time would not be it at all, but a part-time gig in a pleasant, low-key environment you already enjoy might be nice for perks and a productive thing to do." }, { "id": "t1_op8g5re", "author": "/u/NoAdministration8006", "updated": "2026-06-02T01:13:39+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/op8g5re/", "content": "I think this idea caught on because many people active in FIRE are making six figures and consider their jobs very stressful, thus they fantasize about some less stressful job. And since C-suites have no concept of reality, they decided retail was the relaxing, low-stakes career for them once they no longer "need" money." }, { "id": "t1_op9bzp0", "author": "/u/One_more_username", "updated": "2026-06-02T04:38:16+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/op9bzp0/", "content": "I thought the whole point of Barista FIRE was that Starbucks offers healthcare for employees." }, { "id": "t1_opaug4l", "author": "/u/LuminousRaptor", "updated": "2026-06-02T11:48:59+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/opaug4l/", "content": "That's where the name comes from for sure. The idea is that you work part time and use the sponsored Healthcare as a bridge." }, { "id": "t1_op8vylx", "author": "/u/that-guy_free", "updated": "2026-06-02T02:49:37+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/op8vylx/", "content": "Retail is chill as fuck besides the schedule" }, { "id": "t1_op8k2rl", "author": "/u/Zimbo2016", "updated": "2026-06-02T01:37:09+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/op8k2rl/", "content": "Like others have said, working in the service industry for 1/8th of what I make now would be pointless and dumb.\n But retiring early and working part time as a dive instructor whenever needed by a shop, yeah now that I’d do.\n Thats “barista FIRE” to me." }, { "id": "t1_op8lak7", "author": "/u/Larnek", "updated": "2026-06-02T01:44:30+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/op8lak7/", "content": "I have a Barista FIRE friend. He generally works 3 4-6hr shifts a week at a local weed dispensary making $24/hr. He comes in high as a kite and gets multiple smoke breaks everyday with free product. He has no set schedule as long as he picks up 4 shifts every 4 months.\n That's how you do it." }, { "id": "t1_op8fj95", "author": "/u/Gold_Willingness_256", "updated": "2026-06-02T01:09:56+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/op8fj95/", "content": "I see the appeal of Barista fire but my cousin was working at Starbucks when he couldnt find a job after college. I’ve never seen him so stressed in his life." }, { "id": "t1_op8gsud", "author": "/u/Master-Helicopter-99", "updated": "2026-06-02T01:17:30+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/op8gsud/", "content": "I was all set to go part time April 1. Management approved. Was going to do that for three years. Decided to stay full time and then call it next spring. More than half of the money with a third of the time invested. And that was at an easy three day a week job that still paid six figures (barely) and health insurance for the part time job. And I turned it down. No way I would waste the same amount of time at a barista-type fire job for a fraction of that money." }, { "id": "t1_op8g7op", "author": "/u/idealistintherealw", "updated": "2026-06-02T01:13:58+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/op8g7op/", "content": "Substitute teach, drive a bus, or playground monitor my dude." }, { "id": "t1_op8grhk", "author": "/u/RubbleHome", "updated": "2026-06-02T01:17:17+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/op8grhk/", "content": "Those are great if you want to do that, but anything in a school is far from being a low stress, chill job." }, { "id": "t1_op8i118", "author": "/u/idealistintherealw", "updated": "2026-06-02T01:24:51+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/op8i118/", "content": "lol. I'm a substitute teacher (when I feel like it) and playground monitor. It's great." }, { "id": "t1_opb9toh", "author": "/u/NebulousDonkeyFart", "updated": "2026-06-02T13:14:18+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/opb9toh/", "content": "This is what my parents do and they complain all the time about shit. I think they’re just doing the weird boomer “everybody else sucks but me” thing. What are the things you enjoy most and do you get a pension?" }, { "id": "t1_opbkdcl", "author": "/u/idealistintherealw", "updated": "2026-06-02T14:06:02+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/opbkdcl/", "content": "Small contributions to a 401k like product.\n We have a 3rd grade teacher that does independent reading time. During that she takes the most challenged 5 readers or so to the back of the room and they read an incredibly repetitive book together. Because it is so repetitive, by the end of the session they are reading it easily.\n When you are subbing for her, you leave feeling like “wow I just taught a kid to read!” I mean, you know you didn’t, but it is this amazing feeling.\n If you can’t find joy in that, the gig might not be for you.\n I suspect narcissistic people would hate it." }, { "id": "t1_opbo2x4", "author": "/u/idealistintherealw", "updated": "2026-06-02T14:23:28+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/opbo2x4/", "content": "PS: If you want to participate in a community and get to know the kids at a small school, especially where you'll have the kids all day (elementary), I think it could be a great gig.\n If you want an EASY gig where you just baby-sit for 45 minutes at a time and wait for the bell, in a large school system where you'll probably only see the same kids a couple times a year, you could sub in a big school system for high school.\n It's one of those things where the easy answer is probably also the least satisfying." }, { "id": "t1_opbsca1", "author": "/u/NebulousDonkeyFart", "updated": "2026-06-02T14:43:03+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/opbsca1/", "content": "This is great info! Yeah I can see how rewarding that can be and I really do put precedence on that. I’m a ways out from making a move to another gig like that but that sounds really cool." }, { "id": "t1_opcyjh2", "author": "/u/idealistintherealw", "updated": "2026-06-02T17:47:55+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/opcyjh2/", "content": "You generally just need a 4 year college degree to sub, a high school diploma to playground monitor or para pro. Para pros work 7:30-3:00 during the school year, have a lot of time off (xmas, thanksgiving, spring break) and get benefits. Just sayin'. Para pro-ing can be hard work as you generally babysit kids with disabilities. It takes a special kind of person." }, { "id": "t1_op8l0sb", "author": "/u/Witty_Bus_9657", "updated": "2026-06-02T01:42:51+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/op8l0sb/", "content": "As a teacher, I don't know that those jobs would be considered low stress or easy for a lot of people! I love it and clearly you do too, but I also know a lot of people try subbing out and immediately run for the hills lol" }, { "id": "t1_op8miad", "author": "/u/idealistintherealw", "updated": "2026-06-02T01:51:47+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/op8miad/", "content": "Agreed you should have a gift or motivation for it, sure. It is a good gig for former soccer Coaches, scout leaders, Sunday school teachers etc." }, { "id": "t1_opblapl", "author": "/u/Scared_Swing_8759", "updated": "2026-06-02T14:10:27+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/opblapl/", "content": "Oh, I loved when I was substitute teaching. None of the stress of dealing with the parents. Awesome time working with the students, especially in longer placements. But yeah, it requires a very specific person.\n I also didn't get health insurance, and isn't that the point of BaristaFIRE?" }, { "id": "t1_op8gmvd", "author": "/u/WWGHIAFTC", "updated": "2026-06-02T01:16:30+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/op8gmvd/", "content": "The other question is . . . will part time doing those things make a meaningful difference financially???\n vs, say, two more years as an FTE and save the hell out of it?" }, { "id": "t1_op8gya7", "author": "/u/Remote-alpine", "updated": "2026-06-02T01:18:26+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/op8gya7/", "content": "Sometimes these are insurance benefits jobs" }, { "id": "t1_op8i20h", "author": "/u/NestEggFinance", "updated": "2026-06-02T01:25:01+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/op8i20h/", "content": "If your spend is 80k….and you are able to earn $20k…..you can reduce your nest egg needed by $500k total. So yes, it can be." }, { "id": "t1_op8ihcm", "author": "/u/idealistintherealw", "updated": "2026-06-02T01:27:33+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/op8ihcm/", "content": "You don't really do it for the money, but it helps. You can make $200/day a sub in the pacific northwest, more like $100/day in the rust belt. At 3 days a week in Salem, Oregon with a 40 week school year you are looking at $24K. If you are leanFIREing it, you'll be in a low tax bracket, keep a lot of it, and it could be the difference between cutting the cord or having to work a day job for a couple more years. Best of all it is SCALABLE. 4% not 4%-ing? Work more. Market doing well? Work less. See?" }, { "id": "t1_opa7rzn", "author": "/u/Strazdas1", "updated": "2026-06-02T09:00:05+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/opa7rzn/", "content": "All three high stress jobs where you are actually responsibile for people health." }, { "id": "t1_opaavon", "author": "/u/idealistintherealw", "updated": "2026-06-02T09:26:57+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/opaavon/", "content": "Look I get some people are not suited to it, but I have been doing it for 5 years and we have probably have 10 people rotate through it at the elementary school, and I know zero people who would describe playground monitor that way. When kids elope or refuse to come in you radio for a para pro or behavioral assistant to come get them, wait around for the para pro, then shrug your shoulders and go to the next grade’s lunch.\n People do rotate through because the pay is low and at most it might be 10 hours of work a week, 12 if you also do morning pre bell monitoring. And it kind of messes up your day as you are suddenly busy in the middle. But for the leanFire this is a feature, not a bug.\n Substituting can be a little tiring and might depend more on temperament, but it is not hard, and everything by resets at the end of the day. If you don’t want to work you don’t sign up for jobs.\n High stress? You mean like, last month one kid got a boo boo and I had to give him a band aid? Like on the daily kids need to go to the bathroom so I have to unlock the door? What are you talking about? (I work at a school with level I and II special education so we have some of the most challenging students. I genuinely don’t understand the comment.)" }, { "id": "t1_opb5isq", "author": "/u/Strazdas1", "updated": "2026-06-02T12:52:01+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/opb5isq/", "content": "Wow you guys do playground monitors a lot different. Here the monitor is responsible for physically ensuring the kids dont elope or refuse to come in and if they get hurt while playing then you should have prevented that and will be blamed." }, { "id": "t1_opbkub6", "author": "/u/idealistintherealw", "updated": "2026-06-02T14:08:18+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/opbkub6/", "content": "We make a good faith attempt to bring them in but can call for help after the whistle if we have places to be. Also if they came in and someone eloped and we didn’t notice, that would be bad, they might be in trouble for that.\n In the 4 years I have been here two kids have broken an arm. Not on my watch. One jumped out of a swing when she had been told not too a hundred times. I don’t think that monitor got in trouble." }, { "id": "t1_op8gon7", "author": "/u/eastcoastlongwalker", "updated": "2026-06-02T01:16:49+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/op8gon7/", "content": "It needs to be the right job, one that youve enjoyed and could again. Ive never been a barista, but I have done seasonal parks work. Working outside, picking up trash, talking to visitors, etc. is fun for me and Id do it for free to a certain extent." }, { "id": "t1_op8muh8", "author": "/u/Fearless_Tutor3050", "updated": "2026-06-02T01:53:48+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/op8muh8/", "content": "Barista FIRE doesn't mean literally going to work at a Starbucks. It just means using your relative financial independence to accept lower paying roles that provide you with a higher quality of life." }, { "id": "t1_op8glcn", "author": "/u/Nuclear_N", "updated": "2026-06-02T01:16:15+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/op8glcn/", "content": "Yeah. After working 40 years to have a new boss who is 30…." }, { "id": "t1_op8s10s", "author": "/u/humansomeone", "updated": "2026-06-02T02:25:09+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/op8s10s/", "content": "I work in an office environment and in my 20s managed people in their 60s, don't really get this one and I'm not a fan of baristafire at all." }, { "id": "t1_opb920v", "author": "/u/NebulousDonkeyFart", "updated": "2026-06-02T13:10:25+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/opb920v/", "content": "Right…just because you’re old you’re entitled to things. Not how it works! This is actually a huge reason people FIRE, because aging employees don’t leave their positions to allow other folks career advancement." }, { "id": "t1_op8uwzb", "author": "/u/Chicken121260", "updated": "2026-06-02T02:43:05+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/op8uwzb/", "content": "My firm belief is that an individual’s personal drive dictates how hard they work and how seriously they take a job no matter what it is.\n A individual will work just as hard and be just as concerned about the outcome working $15 per hour as they will working $150 per hour." }, { "id": "t1_op951n5", "author": "/u/Honest_Extreme9196", "updated": "2026-06-02T03:49:26+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/op951n5/", "content": "This.\n I took what I deemed "my last job" before I knew anything of any type of FIRE. A part-time "easy" job that I wouldn't take home with me and wouldn't care if I get fired from.\n Joke's on me. I just don't think I'm built that way. I just make less money now." }, { "id": "t1_opai6z7", "author": "/u/Historical-Intern-19", "updated": "2026-06-02T10:25:44+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/opai6z7/", "content": "This. It's like being a saver your whole like thinking you'll magically become a spender in retirement. Not actually how it works, at least not without a lot of effort." }, { "id": "t1_opagobw", "author": "/u/ThorgarIronfist", "updated": "2026-06-02T10:14:13+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/opagobw/", "content": "People take the term "Barista" too literally. Most people who successfully pull this off aren't actually working at Starbucks or in retail. They are doing low stress consulting in their old field, working at a local library, or doing seasonal park ranger work. It’s about downshifting, not necessarily entering the service industry." }, { "id": "t1_opfeiwc", "author": "/u/Unlikely-Alt-9383", "updated": "2026-06-03T01:00:19+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/opfeiwc/", "content": "It used to be the case that Starbucks offered benefits to part-time employees, making it a tempting option for people hopping off the corporate treadmill before ACA. Hence the name." }, { "id": "t1_op8n6lz", "author": "/u/tarrare01", "updated": "2026-06-02T01:55:50+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/op8n6lz/", "content": "my dream has always been to work at walmart" }, { "id": "t1_op8utd8", "author": "/u/HarviousMaximus", "updated": "2026-06-02T02:42:28+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/op8utd8/", "content": "I assume 80% of people who are PLANNING to “barista FIRE” have never worked a customer service job in their life. I could go back to it if I needed the health insurance for a period, but it’s certainly not my goal." }, { "id": "t1_op94o4w", "author": "/u/babies_galore", "updated": "2026-06-02T03:46:54+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/op94o4w/", "content": "I actually did work in retail for three years all year round in college. And then I always thought I wanted to work in retail again until I actually did at age 50 volunteer at the gift shop in a state park. Which I always thought would be my dream job! Just chatting with the visitors and everything. I mean, that part was great, but like only a four hour shift had my back aching like I couldn’t believe! And it was like time slowed down massively while I was there! No matter how busy I was it felt like those four hours were at least eight hours! So I was completely cured of the idea that I would want to work like 20 hours a week or something in retail for fun! It was very surprising to me! Because I’m a people person." }, { "id": "t1_op967g0", "author": "/u/pdx_mom", "updated": "2026-06-02T03:57:22+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/op967g0/", "content": "I loved waiting tables. It was so much fun." }, { "id": "t1_opg3gig", "author": "/u/rivalrobot", "updated": "2026-06-03T03:27:21+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/opg3gig/", "content": "Exactly. I worked retail jobs from 16-22. Never again, but I’ll always be patient and empathetic toward retail workers for the rest of my days." }, { "id": "t1_op8h7zz", "author": "/u/Ok-Technology8336", "updated": "2026-06-02T01:20:02+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/op8h7zz/", "content": "If I do some kind of light FIRE, my job would not involve interacting with the general public" }, { "id": "t1_op8i4d0", "author": "/u/bombastica", "updated": "2026-06-02T01:25:24+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/op8i4d0/", "content": "My wife is the retired one (We agreed she could quit her job and be the first FIREE) and has picked up a few shifts waiting tables at a restaurant we invested in and she loves it. There’s no pressure on her, she takes it seriously but it’s a hobby and not a job. It’s way easier to grin and bear when you know a challenging customer won’t make or break your night/life." }, { "id": "t1_opbk8fd", "author": "/u/CallItDanzig", "updated": "2026-06-02T14:05:23+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/opbk8fd/", "content": "Yeah because it sounds like you're her boss. Lets see if she enjoys it that much if she gets some crazy micro manager with no nepotism benefits." }, { "id": "t1_op8hvyw", "author": "/u/NestEggFinance", "updated": "2026-06-02T01:24:01+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/op8hvyw/", "content": "You aren’t being creative enough about the job possibilities if you only need a small income." }, { "id": "t1_op8kbu8", "author": "/u/Babykinsbaby", "updated": "2026-06-02T01:38:40+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/op8kbu8/", "content": "Working in enterprise software sales at a publicly traded company is extremely high stress, high demand, and less and less aligned to my moral code.\n By comparison, moving to a lower COL area and working at a coffee shop seems way more chill.\n I have worked all kinds of service level jobs in my early twenties- cocktail waitress, retail sales, grocery store cashier. Sounds chill as hell right now. I think my ideal barista fire job would be to work as a fitness instructor. I actually used to work at Corepower yoga for fun on the weekends. I think managing a studio and teaching more classes would be a chill way to make $40k a year" }, { "id": "t1_opewxpy", "author": "/u/User01262016", "updated": "2026-06-02T23:21:34+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/opewxpy/", "content": "and stay in shape!" }, { "id": "t1_opf3ffb", "author": "/u/Babykinsbaby", "updated": "2026-06-02T23:57:43+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/opf3ffb/", "content": "Exactly!!" }, { "id": "t1_op8talq", "author": "/u/Rib4919", "updated": "2026-06-02T02:32:57+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/op8talq/", "content": "Working at Starbucks seems like one of the hardest jobs out there. Just constantly making drinks on your feet all day customers requesting all sorts of custom things." }, { "id": "t1_op8fl8u", "author": "/u/mattkime", "updated": "2026-06-02T01:10:16+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/op8fl8u/", "content": "I personally agree, either I have control over my time or I don't. If I'm in a mindless job my mind would be trying to get something more engaging.\n Hitting the sweet spot is the challenge." }, { "id": "t1_opahrbb", "author": "/u/Historical-Intern-19", "updated": "2026-06-02T10:22:26+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/opahrbb/", "content": "Best job I ever had was working at a bank running a machine that processed the payments people mailed in yes, I'm old . Audiobooks, just enough attention needed to deal with jams and issues to keep me engaged, and not having to deal with other people. Job doesn't even exist anymore." }, { "id": "t1_op8jxtg", "author": "/u/S7EFEN", "updated": "2026-06-02T01:36:20+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/op8jxtg/", "content": "barista fire is more just about 'do something that limits how much you are drawing down, and let your portfolio grow.'\n its moreso about you finding a more forfun job. they exist. i'm completely clueless as to why barista is on that list but yeah." }, { "id": "t1_op8s84s", "author": "/u/ARKzzzzzz", "updated": "2026-06-02T02:26:22+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/op8s84s/", "content": "I think those jobs are a lot more fun and a lot less stressful when you don’t actually need the money." }, { "id": "t1_op9ekus", "author": "/u/calefa", "updated": "2026-06-02T04:57:25+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/op9ekus/", "content": "This is my main qualm, actually. Work fucking sucks, that’s all there really is to it.\n Much better to quiet quit some high paying gig" }, { "id": "t1_opagea5", "author": "/u/IronLotus59", "updated": "2026-06-02T10:12:03+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/opagea5/", "content": "You are totally right about low paying jobs being more toxic. Dealing with the general public and micromanagers who take a retail job way too seriously is exhausting. I would much rather do one or two more years in my corporate cubicle than spend five years being yelled at by customers for minimum wage." }, { "id": "t1_op8h9hc", "author": "/u/Ok_Jello_2441", "updated": "2026-06-02T01:20:16+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/op8h9hc/", "content": "BaristaFire doesn’t mean you’re literally gonna go be a barista 40 hours a week at Starbucks, yea that’d suck I don’t think any high earners are naive enough to believe that. It just means doing something you actually enjoy thats enough to sustain your day to day living cost and not having to chase the highest paying job that you hate." }, { "id": "t1_op8hnxs", "author": "/u/CosmicQuantum42", "updated": "2026-06-02T01:22:42+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/op8hnxs/", "content": "If I’m going to work, I’m going to work for $80/hour or whatever a particular professional salary equates to, not $20.\n Why would I work at a job where I need to work 4 hours to get what I used to get at 1? That’s gotta be one hella stressful job to make that tradeoff.\n BaristaFIRE is more of a possible fallback in case my career goes sideways, not a goal to get to. It’s a stage to get through to get to another FIRE level where you do not have to work at all." }, { "id": "t1_op8qnnp", "author": "/u/NA_Faker", "updated": "2026-06-02T02:16:49+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/op8qnnp/", "content": "Also by the time you are at the level when you can barista fire $20 an hour is literally pointless. Its less than a rounding error on the daily swings in your net worth. Why would you waste time on that...absolutely idiotic" }, { "id": "t1_op8i1xx", "author": "/u/reddituser84", "updated": "2026-06-02T01:25:00+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/op8i1xx/", "content": "I was a bartender twice in my life.\n Once, after college before I found my first white collar career job (hello 2008 financial crisis).\n Then, a second time I got a night/weekend gig because when I finally got that office job with benefits - the pay was shit.\n I will say it was a lot more fun when I didn’t need the job compared when I did. a slow night hits different when I’m still gonna be able to pay my rent and eat." }, { "id": "t1_op8i6fq", "author": "/u/Potential_Lie_1177", "updated": "2026-06-02T01:25:45+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/op8i6fq/", "content": "I would rather work an extra year or two at my current job where I am paid rather well, have the pressures of deadlines but can take breaks anytime I want.\n Having to show up for a low skill low pay job with no control over my schedule or pace is very unappealing but I would do it if I must." }, { "id": "t1_op9ejuj", "author": "/u/Treefrogpaint", "updated": "2026-06-02T04:57:12+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/op9ejuj/", "content": "You could teach yoga instead" }, { "id": "t1_op9lps1", "author": "/u/Potential_Lie_1177", "updated": "2026-06-02T05:53:11+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/op9lps1/", "content": "Could be. I have never tried. You still are being scheduled with like 20 people waiting, can't just come in whenever you want." }, { "id": "t1_op8yv10", "author": "/u/alexunderwater1", "updated": "2026-06-02T03:08:10+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/op8yv10/", "content": "The appeal is that you don’t have to take your work home with you, and you don’t have to stress about losing your job because you can just go down the street and get another one just like it.\n Barista is probably not a good name for it too, maybe something like a museum docent would be more chill." }, { "id": "t1_op962xp", "author": "/u/pdx_mom", "updated": "2026-06-02T03:56:30+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/op962xp/", "content": "Docents are usually volunteers." }, { "id": "t1_op8yye0", "author": "/u/creepy-farter", "updated": "2026-06-02T03:08:46+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/op8yye0/", "content": "My take on service jobs is that they sucked because if I lost that crappy job, I couldn’t pay my bills.\n For me, if I “Barista FIRE” it me just working to keep from getting bored. I’ve bartended for a rental hall so something like that, or even dishwashing which is mindless back of the house work is appealing to me.\n And, because I’d be in it more for interaction, and killing time, it would probably much more fun." }, { "id": "t1_op90sih", "author": "/u/Affectionate-Hope417", "updated": "2026-06-02T03:20:53+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/op90sih/", "content": "If money was no object I’d be one of those people who dress up in colonial garb at historical sites" }, { "id": "t1_op90tr9", "author": "/u/RecentState1347", "updated": "2026-06-02T03:21:07+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/op90tr9/", "content": "I sincerely believe that all citizens should be required to serve a tour of duty in either a coffee shop or a grocery store so that they can at least have some vague idea what they’re talking about when they make dismissive references to “unskilled labor” or “mindless jobs”.\n At my first white collar job I thought my manager was joking when she described how little work I would be doing." }, { "id": "t1_op90vif", "author": "/u/watch-nerd", "updated": "2026-06-02T03:21:27+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/op90vif/", "content": "I DIY barita fire by being my own yardworker, handyman, painter, landscaper, light auto maintenance, gardener, and K9 sports trainer." }, { "id": "t1_op93l73", "author": "/u/unbalancedcheckbook", "updated": "2026-06-02T03:39:35+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/op93l73/", "content": "I agree, mostly. I can't think of a job that has health insurance but is otherwise low paying that I would actually want to do. That said I do see the appeal of leaving work at work and not having stress that you carry with you. I think the problem though is that these jobs often come with other kinds of stress you bring home with you (conflicts with your boss or coworkers or rude customers)." }, { "id": "t1_op94z3b", "author": "/u/virt111", "updated": "2026-06-02T03:48:58+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/op94z3b/", "content": "Being a security guard in a dying big store was the most relaxing job ever. Just look at monitors, go for a few walks, catch a bad guy here and there. Most of the time just read, study and relax. If I ever do barista FIRE I would try getting a part time job as a security guard." }, { "id": "t1_opbau38", "author": "/u/NebulousDonkeyFart", "updated": "2026-06-02T13:19:23+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/opbau38/", "content": "What does “catch a bad guy” entail. I don’t wanna get shot or my shit kicked in because a guy climbed a fence and is stuck in a building with me lol." }, { "id": "t1_opbmuzw", "author": "/u/virt111", "updated": "2026-06-02T14:17:49+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/opbmuzw/", "content": "I was catching druggies who stole stuff like sunglasses or dvd-players and also teens who stole make up or clothing. It got my adrenaline pumping and it was fun to run with them (and always win the race). I live in a safe country and whenever I caught the wrongdoers they were somewhat respectful and knew they fucked up. I was also respecting and fair towards them, so it was a very "nice" job. Being a security guard doesnt necessarily have to be all egotistical and super masculine. Just being stern and polite usually was enough." }, { "id": "t1_opbsoeg", "author": "/u/KungFuBucket", "updated": "2026-06-02T14:44:34+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/opbsoeg/", "content": "There’s also different levels of security. When I was in college I worked as a security guard at a retirement community. Mostly that entailed sitting in a little shack as old people drove up and pressing a button to open the gate for them. It was great because most of the time I’d just sit there and study. Strict rules about not being a hero too. Our job was to observe and report, not catch bad guys, so when we were driving patrol and saw something, orders were to go to a safe location and contact the police." }, { "id": "t1_op95679", "author": "/u/Struggle_Usual", "updated": "2026-06-02T03:50:18+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/op95679/", "content": "I think barista fire made more sense in the days where a part time jobs came with health insurance. I'd happily pick up a shift a week somewhere for the social outlet + insurance. But it doesn't work like that anymore. Not most places and those rare jobs like at Costco I'd feel guilty AF taking from someone who really needed it.\n Instead I'll stay coastfi, work a real job and retire in 5-7 years and never have to work again I hope." }, { "id": "t1_op9cfur", "author": "/u/No-Indication6492", "updated": "2026-06-02T04:41:33+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/op9cfur/", "content": "Ain’t a damn thing stressful about a job you can walk away from.\n You’ll find out when you FIRE that you might actually like have ~ 20-30 hours structured in your week because it isn’t all sunshine and rainbows adjusting from full time work to no work at all." }, { "id": "t1_op9jqin", "author": "/u/princemousey1", "updated": "2026-06-02T05:37:22+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/op9jqin/", "content": "Completely agree with you, and also factoring in the time value of money, one more year at a $100k job beats the next five years at a 3 day a week $20k job." }, { "id": "t1_op9zokn", "author": "/u/EvadeCapture", "updated": "2026-06-02T07:49:30+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/op9zokn/", "content": "Idk, I worked at an animal shelter that had a weird mix of people in their 20s who lived with mom and dad, and retired people. It wasn't a job you could pay a mortgage and raise kids on but it was really fun. I was 22 and had coworkers who were retired CEOs and police chiefs." }, { "id": "t1_opcpeot", "author": "/u/Legitimate-Web-5540", "updated": "2026-06-02T17:08:29+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/opcpeot/", "content": "I would guess working part time at a low paying job hits differently when Karen’s drama isn’t immediately threatening your ability to pay rent, or buy groceries.\n I know barista fire isn’t just working for beer money, but I would assume you can afford to take some time off to job hop and find one that really fits, or move on if one gets toxic." }, { "id": "t1_op8g4jz", "author": "/u/blew_belle", "updated": "2026-06-02T01:13:27+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/op8g4jz/", "content": "I've been saying the same thing lately. Not everyone has access or ability for cool part time jobs like ski instructors." }, { "id": "t1_op8h2tj", "author": "/u/Elrohwen", "updated": "2026-06-02T01:19:11+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/op8h2tj/", "content": "Totally agree. People fetishize low paying jobs because they’ve never worked one or forget what they’re actually like\n I absolutely have ideas for part time low paying jobs I’d like to do after I fire but it’s unlikely any of them will offer healthcare or enough money to support my lifestyle so it doesn’t count as baristafire." }, { "id": "t1_op8i3w3", "author": "/u/zeroabe", "updated": "2026-06-02T01:25:20+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/op8i3w3/", "content": "Part time. Easy job. That keeps you active. And provides some benefit other than money. Like, discount coffee?" }, { "id": "t1_op8ixty", "author": "/u/Alarming-Mix3809", "updated": "2026-06-02T01:30:19+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/op8ixty/", "content": "Yeah just because a job doesn’t pay a lot doesn’t mean it’s less stressful. I’d rather just dial it back in my current job from a A+ player to a solid B. Corporate life is cushy if you can coast. Being a waiter or something actually can suck hard if you rely on it to live." }, { "id": "t1_op8j0a8", "author": "/u/ANewCleanSlate", "updated": "2026-06-02T01:30:44+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/op8j0a8/", "content": "Exactly. I work from home and make over 200K per year, with no stress. I can't even imagine working some minimum wage job for the 'freedom'.\n When I retire, I'll keep up a modest income doing some consulting, since I don't hate my job." }, { "id": "t1_op8jdlf", "author": "/u/BroDoc22", "updated": "2026-06-02T01:32:57+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/op8jdlf/", "content": "Barista fire is stupid" }, { "id": "t1_op8jpyj", "author": "/u/kak-47", "updated": "2026-06-02T01:35:00+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/op8jpyj/", "content": "It’s a different mindset and vibe when you do not have to work there." }, { "id": "t1_op8lp6x", "author": "/u/Powerful-Bridge-1472", "updated": "2026-06-02T01:46:57+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/op8lp6x/", "content": "Retiring early is def a huge adjustment, honestly working 3-4 days a week is my plan after 4 month break. Some days are amazing but it can def get boring with all your friends work all day, lids at school…. I feel like I need some structure but no desire to get back into medical device, if I can find the right part time job, make enough money to cover mortgage ($1900), wife still works but wants to work less, so just keeps us from relying completely on taking $ from investments" }, { "id": "t1_op8mlsc", "author": "/u/AgreeablePeanut09", "updated": "2026-06-02T01:52:21+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/op8mlsc/", "content": "I previously to bartend after FIRE’ing. I will never forget that when I mentioned my previous position as a director, my high school educated managers laughed in my face and told me I was lying. They all thought I was an escort due to my nice lifestyle. Most of my coworkers and managers were terrible and alcoholics." }, { "id": "t1_op8q612", "author": "/u/Comfortable_Two6272", "updated": "2026-06-02T02:13:50+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/op8q612/", "content": "Fully agree. I worked lots of those jobs when young. Way worse than my office job." }, { "id": "t1_op8qadi", "author": "/u/humansomeone", "updated": "2026-06-02T02:14:34+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/op8qadi/", "content": "Agree, the mmm forum used to be full of people saying it would be awesome doing such a laid back easy job.\n Clearly these morons never worked in customer service or if they did it was 9 to 12 hours a week and mommy was waiting outside to pick them up at the end of the shift. Look mom I can buy those air jordans now!" }, { "id": "t1_op8qyia", "author": "/u/breeze94", "updated": "2026-06-02T02:18:41+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/op8qyia/", "content": "Those types of jobs hit differently when they aren't "ctitical" to survival." }, { "id": "t1_op8tqpo", "author": "/u/OsamaBinWhiskers", "updated": "2026-06-02T02:35:44+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/op8tqpo/", "content": "There is a massive difference working a job like that, getting berated and needing to keep your job…. Vs getting berated and not giving a single fuck thinking it’s funny. I’ve witnessed both" }, { "id": "t1_op8u0e7", "author": "/u/thesurferengineer", "updated": "2026-06-02T02:37:27+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/op8u0e7/", "content": "Work on the mountain at a ski resort - it’s not bad and free lift pass / discounted housing!" }, { "id": "t1_op8ujx4", "author": "/u/MeiguiChronicles", "updated": "2026-06-02T02:40:50+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/op8ujx4/", "content": "I'm currently working a barista fire job now and just working crazy overtime to make up for the pay. On a 14 hour shift I do 1-2 hours of actual work. The rest of the shift I'm left to my own devices.\n Scaled back to 20-30 hours a week would be even better." }, { "id": "t1_op8x2dh", "author": "/u/AngelDrake3", "updated": "2026-06-02T02:56:35+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/op8x2dh/", "content": "I'm a principal engineer with project management experience. My "BaristaFIRE" is consulting part time, not working in Starbucks." }, { "id": "t1_op8z31y", "author": "/u/Bryanmsi89", "updated": "2026-06-02T03:09:37+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/op8z31y/", "content": "Completely agree, and i cant imagine why anyone wants to stop working at a high-paying job with stress but lots of autonomy and start working a low-paying job with stress and no autonomy." }, { "id": "t1_op94jai", "author": "/u/_Heathcliff_", "updated": "2026-06-02T03:46:00+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/op94jai/", "content": "I don’t know what the future holds, but barista fire potentially appeals to me.\n I’ve also done some of those service jobs, and yea they were rough, but I was doing them because I had to in order to survive. I tend to think that if I take a part time bartending gig, for example, knowing that I can leave and find something else whenever I want, and just approach it with the mentality of connecting with people and trying not to take it too seriously, it could be really enjoyable.\n The job would be the same but the context is a lot different" }, { "id": "t1_op9mjhl", "author": "/u/Split-Awkward", "updated": "2026-06-02T05:59:45+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/op9mjhl/", "content": "I think it mostly depends on the subjective perspective of each individual.\n And that perspective is dynamic." }, { "id": "t1_opa0ff5", "author": "/u/1i3to", "updated": "2026-06-02T07:55:57+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/opa0ff5/", "content": "I always understood this as going part time with what I do already. 4 day weeks should be easy to line up. 3 days - hard but not impossible + buying holidays." }, { "id": "t1_opaftpm", "author": "/u/VaelenSunstrider", "updated": "2026-06-02T10:07:37+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/opaftpm/", "content": "The main difference is the psychology of not needing the money. When you Barista FIRE, you have the power to walk away. If a manager gets toxic or a customer acts crazy, you can literally just wave goodbye and find a different part time job the next day. That completely changes the stress level." }, { "id": "t1_opagslz", "author": "/u/ZephyrBlaze_X", "updated": "2026-06-02T10:15:07+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/opagslz/", "content": "In the US, it almost always comes down to health insurance. If you can get decent health coverage through a 20 hour a week job, it saves you an absolute fortune compared to paying for it completely out of pocket on the open market. That is the main reason a lot of people tolerate it." }, { "id": "t1_opagx5p", "author": "/u/EldrinSkyweaver", "updated": "2026-06-02T10:16:05+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/opagx5p/", "content": "I completely agree with your math. The compounding power of keeping a high salary for just an extra 12 to 18 months usually makes a massive difference. It lets you transition straight into a full, work free retirement instead of lingering in part time purgatory." }, { "id": "t1_opamqks", "author": "/u/milkedout", "updated": "2026-06-02T10:58:34+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/opamqks/", "content": "I suspect most of the people wanting to be a barista have never worked in a relatively low pay retail or service job. People are incredibly picky and annoying about food and beverage. It is not as if you are working at an animal rescue or something you are dealing with people who view you as less than them" }, { "id": "t1_opb15lu", "author": "/u/Annual-Potato-4379", "updated": "2026-06-02T12:28:06+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/opb15lu/", "content": "My idea of barista fire is opening my own little cafe at home" }, { "id": "t1_opbccp4", "author": "/u/xLawpersonx", "updated": "2026-06-02T13:26:56+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/opbccp4/", "content": "My plan is to save $2M then go work at a motorcycle dealership. 1/4 of the way there!" }, { "id": "t1_opckd60", "author": "/u/WorldRank1CatFancier", "updated": "2026-06-02T16:46:33+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/opckd60/", "content": "most professionals work jobs where you have to be in corporate-mode and feel disconnected from normal genuine social connection\n ironically im sure service workers feel the exact same way, and envy corporate jobs where you deal only with internal people and can be more yourself" }, { "id": "t1_opcodyr", "author": "/u/RoundingDown", "updated": "2026-06-02T17:04:03+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/opcodyr/", "content": "Good point, assuming that after 2 years you would never have to work again. BaristaFIRE to me is saving up enough that you have enough for retirement, but still need to supplement that with current income to allow your investments to grow. This could be a 10-20 year process.\n Also - coming into it with a war chest would make it infinitely easier. What’s the worst that could happen? Get fired? Who cares, you have a fortress of fucking solitude." }, { "id": "t1_opcypen", "author": "/u/Remarkable-FlipPhone", "updated": "2026-06-02T17:48:37+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/opcypen/", "content": "But a low paying job like a barista is much less stressful when you don’t depend on the paycheck or care if you’re fired" }, { "id": "t1_opd9jeg", "author": "/u/B1SQ1T", "updated": "2026-06-02T18:35:52+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/opd9jeg/", "content": "My delusional daydream of barista fire is when I have enough money to retire and open my own coffee shop for fun\n Or maybe be a lecturer at my university teaching a low level intro to programming course" }, { "id": "t1_ope3d8s", "author": "/u/not_interested330", "updated": "2026-06-02T20:51:26+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/ope3d8s/", "content": "I plan on being a Pilates teacher 2-3x a week on my own schedule. Free Pilates, keeps me active in my community, and I’m working out!" }, { "id": "t1_opeiw9a", "author": "/u/SlyFrog", "updated": "2026-06-02T22:07:26+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/opeiw9a/", "content": "Barista FIRE is basically said by affluent people who think American Beauty/Kevin Spacey working at McDonald's is real, but who have themselves never actually done a job like that for any extended period of time.\n They also tend to confuse what is tolerable for 15-20 hours a week while you are in high school (and confuse their fond memories of their youth when "life was easy" with jobs a lot of young people do that are not easy and in fact suck) with what would be tolerable full time when you are 52." }, { "id": "t1_op8h1xx", "author": "/u/Maleficent_Bend2911", "updated": "2026-06-02T01:19:03+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/op8h1xx/", "content": "Well there’s coastFIRE and there is BaristaFIRE. They are similar but not identical. First, In my understanding, baristaFIRE is essentially USA FIRE’s healthcare plan. Get any low intro job at minimal hours that gives you healthcare. It’s not about spending money, but it can greatly reduce the need to work for many people. This is a nice option for people who have health costs that outstrip income. Health care, especially for the chronically ill, disabled, those with families or dependents, becomes extremely costly and it’s hard to”just to save up” especially when these expenses can be so variable. Unless you’re in the FatFIRE line, just “one or two more years” won’t stash the possible hundreds of thousands these can add up to. It’s not really a way to accumulate or stall retirement otherwise, so work can be fairly minimum if you find a gig that will still give you healthcare.\n CoastFIRE on the other hand is just stopping the accumulation phase and then cutting back both work and pay to your spend while your assets grow. You still need work. This is best for people with decent jobs they enjoy, but ways to cut back (less shifts or part time). This is where I agree that most jobs are shitty and demand an outsized amount of time and effort, and in general it makes sense to stash a few more years of cash and quit altogether. It generally doesn’t make sense to leave this for a minimum wage spot, that’s for sure. But it could be a way to get some of the benefits of FIRE a bit sooner, like while kids are still young/parents are still alive/etc." }, { "id": "t1_op8rc1k", "author": "/u/NA_Faker", "updated": "2026-06-02T02:20:56+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/op8rc1k/", "content": "Why work for shit pay when ACA exists..." }, { "id": "t1_op8hcgp", "author": "/u/Lonely_District_196", "updated": "2026-06-02T01:20:47+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/op8hcgp/", "content": "I've had minimum wage jobs I enjoyed. I currently have a well paying job I enjoy, but it also more stressful. I don't think I'd barrista fire back to another minimum wage job like early in my career. But I might for a job that's more like a hobby I know wouldn't pay well." }, { "id": "t1_op8hmri", "author": "/u/Ok-Sheepherder7898", "updated": "2026-06-02T01:22:30+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/op8hmri/", "content": "I would never do it." }, { "id": "t1_op8hz17", "author": "/u/Own-Fun-6599", "updated": "2026-06-02T01:24:31+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/op8hz17/", "content": "Lol you have to be the right kind of person to enjoy the service industry. Or clinically insane." }, { "id": "t1_op8i0lt", "author": "/u/Past-Option2702", "updated": "2026-06-02T01:24:47+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/op8i0lt/", "content": "I don’t disagree.\n Better to work a couple more years earning a high income as long as your health isn’t at risk.\n That’s what we did. The last 3 years of income and the proceeds from the sale of our business more the doubled our retirement nest egg." }, { "id": "t1_op8i8vs", "author": "/u/YinzerInEurope", "updated": "2026-06-02T01:26:09+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/op8i8vs/", "content": "Dealing with the general public is a nightmare." }, { "id": "t1_op8ieso", "author": "/u/muy_carona", "updated": "2026-06-02T01:27:08+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/op8ieso/", "content": "Totally agree. I’ll take coast fire over barista fire." }, { "id": "t1_op8ietg", "author": "/u/dirt_mcgirt4", "updated": "2026-06-02T01:27:09+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/op8ietg/", "content": "Taken literally, OMFG no. Why would you want that job?" }, { "id": "t1_op8iuwe", "author": "/u/warped_gunwales", "updated": "2026-06-02T01:29:50+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/op8iuwe/", "content": "Would rather teach skiing or sailing part time" }, { "id": "t1_op8j1r7", "author": "/u/Retired-Yam8988", "updated": "2026-06-02T01:30:58+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/op8j1r7/", "content": "Agree - like I’d wanna hang with about of Gen Alpha complaining about the man and AI lol" }, { "id": "t1_op8jags", "author": "/u/StrawberryOk8459", "updated": "2026-06-02T01:32:26+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/op8jags/", "content": "Totally who the fuck came up with work a shit job while you have a few million! We have cattle and keep investing in land and more cows. My end game is 150k per year selling calves. My money still creates generational wealth. After 68 I draw social security and all is good. But we won't fire until I have 3 million in cash assets. Currently have 1.4 m cash and our property and cattle worth 1.8 mil. No debts." }, { "id": "t1_op8jilr", "author": "/u/We_DemBoys", "updated": "2026-06-02T01:33:47+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/op8jilr/", "content": "We should change the name to DOOR GREETER 🚪 FIRE 🔥." }, { "id": "t1_op8jx8r", "author": "/u/youchasechickens", "updated": "2026-06-02T01:36:14+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/op8jx8r/", "content": "The idea of working a crappy job sounds kind of nice when being fired doesn't have any real consequence.\n If it's critical for health insurance or something then I can see how it would still carry stress but if it's more for pocket money then it seems like it would be kind of fun to push back on a crappy manager or customer." }, { "id": "t1_op8jz5z", "author": "/u/WakeRider11", "updated": "2026-06-02T01:36:33+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/op8jz5z/", "content": "I think it could make sense if you are doing something that intersects with your hobby. I'm already retired and could see myself working at a bike shop. I'd only want to do it for maybe 20 or so hours a week, and would really want health insurance. The owner of my local shop has asked me to work, but I also like just getting up and deciding what I want to do that day, plus I travel a good amount." }, { "id": "t1_op8k9p1", "author": "/u/moneyman74", "updated": "2026-06-02T01:38:19+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/op8k9p1/", "content": "A lifestyle I would love at 30 but would hate at 50 😄" }, { "id": "t1_op8kamp", "author": "/u/trey_pound", "updated": "2026-06-02T01:38:29+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/op8kamp/", "content": "agreed" }, { "id": "t1_op8kgjh", "author": "/u/Safe-Tennis-6121", "updated": "2026-06-02T01:39:28+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/op8kgjh/", "content": "This takes some Intel. As in what job can you work and be hired and avoid all the BS. If you have the Intel, in inside information on how things actually work, then that can save you time in finding the right location, right company.\n And if you don't need the job and it's only 25% of your income, that changes your mind set.\n "College" jobs are easy when you don't need to expect a full salary with full expenses." }, { "id": "t1_op8klk9", "author": "/u/MinimumEffort01", "updated": "2026-06-02T01:40:18+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/op8klk9/", "content": "Yeah I don’t get it. I fired to get my life back and escape the grind. Why would I want to work anywhere?" }, { "id": "t1_op8l0i5", "author": "/u/North-Tomatillo9158", "updated": "2026-06-02T01:42:48+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/op8l0i5/", "content": "Of all the low-paid jobs I had before (and after!) professional life the one I liked the most, by far, was working at the garden center. It was indoor/outdoor, and coworkers, managers, and customers were all lovely and I was surrounded by beautiful plants and a koi pond. I’d do that one again." }, { "id": "t1_op8l90u", "author": "/u/EnvironmentalMix421", "updated": "2026-06-02T01:44:15+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/op8l90u/", "content": "I think lotta original fire sub work at shitty jobs" }, { "id": "t1_op8n5jh", "author": "/u/soyeahiknow", "updated": "2026-06-02T01:55:39+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/op8n5jh/", "content": "It can be fun but I dont know if a middle age person will have that much in common with the younger coworkers." }, { "id": "t1_op8n6c0", "author": "/u/hazydaysatl", "updated": "2026-06-02T01:55:47+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/op8n6c0/", "content": "I host trivia two nights a week and that brings in some extra funds, free beer and socializing. I could still see myself doing this after FI. The only downside is the health benefits (lack therof) which I believe is at the core of barista fire. Once you quit the rat race you're on your own for this silly healthcare system we have." }, { "id": "t1_op8odm5", "author": "/u/hoggin88", "updated": "2026-06-02T02:03:06+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/op8odm5/", "content": "I own a lawn/landscape company with 8 employees. I enjoy it, and don’t really have a desire to dial it back right now in my late 30’s. However I could see possibly shifting down the road and could certainly see myself wanting to “barista fire” by just dialing the business way back someday. Keep the most profitable accounts, work maybe 15-20 hours a week just on my own.\n It’s all very situational is the bottom line." }, { "id": "t1_op8oega", "author": "/u/PannaMan11", "updated": "2026-06-02T02:03:14+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/op8oega/", "content": "If I could work part time at a music store selling instruments and sound equipment, that would be the only retail job I’d consider if I was FI…. Then again if I was truly FI it would be tough to have someone tell me I need to close or work a Sunday or can’t go on a vacation/visit my family. So I’d probably end up quitting if it impacted my life negatively.\n I think it depends on the environment. Small family owned place would probably be better in every way than a larger corporate big box store." }, { "id": "t1_op8pi97", "author": "/u/HumerousMoniker", "updated": "2026-06-02T02:09:52+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/op8pi97/", "content": "If I was going to do barista fire, I’d do it in my current industry but just consult for 12 hours a week or something. Working full time at a coffee shop doesn’t appeal, part time on minimum wage doesn’t seem very appealing either, but keeping my current wage and getting more ‘life’ in the work-life balance sounds great." }, { "id": "t1_op8pmkw", "author": "/u/Inevitable_Pride1925", "updated": "2026-06-02T02:10:35+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/op8pmkw/", "content": "There reason why barista fire is a thing is that people making 250k or more a year just see the fun side of customer service and don’t see the cleaning bathrooms, hauling trash, or dealing with shitty customers. They also forget about the fact that many customer service jobs don’t have regular hours or that you might be working 4 hours in the middle of the day for a shitty boss with a power complex.\n They also don’t realize just how little they make as well. Minimum wage is pretty high where I am and a barista will make slightly more than that. If they work 20 hours a week they might gross 20k a year. But that won’t be in two and half 8 hour days. It’ll be spread out in inconsistent and likely inconvenient chunks. If I’m willing to work 70 hours a week I can make that in two weeks and still have weekends off" }, { "id": "t1_op8ppej", "author": "/u/Ra_a_", "updated": "2026-06-02T02:11:03+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/op8ppej/", "content": "May some people negotiate to go part time at their regular jobs\n 1099 workers have more options and flexibility for this" }, { "id": "t1_op8pwuz", "author": "/u/Menu-Quirky", "updated": "2026-06-02T02:12:18+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/op8pwuz/", "content": "Some low pay jobs have less human interaction like doordash just pick up food and drop" }, { "id": "t1_op8pwvs", "author": "/u/Alpha_wheel", "updated": "2026-06-02T02:12:19+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/op8pwvs/", "content": "I think low paying / part time jobs can be stressful because you are usually broken when working .... With barista fire, you have enough assets to have options, it takes the edge off the job. and it can be hard to move from the grind to no work at all. A bit of structure, maybe make some new friends, and the confidence than you can quit because you don't "need need" the job, you can always find something else later. I enjoy being a server/waiter. I could do that part time after fire even if I don't need the barista fire extra income." }, { "id": "t1_op8qiko", "author": "/u/TerribleBumblebee800", "updated": "2026-06-02T02:15:58+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/op8qiko/", "content": "Yes and no. There's less pressure when you could be fired and not care much." }, { "id": "t1_op8r10t", "author": "/u/SpaceTimeMorph", "updated": "2026-06-02T02:19:06+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/op8r10t/", "content": "My dad retired and taught young kids tennis lessons and did tennis camps for kids.\n It is at this time I need to inform you he was a former Marine Corp drill instructor and approached tennis lessons with the same kind of… gusto.\n Hi-larious to watch." }, { "id": "t1_op8rj7u", "author": "/u/TomorrowPlenty9205", "updated": "2026-06-02T02:22:08+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/op8rj7u/", "content": "I hate the name Barista FIRE because I would HATE to be a Barista, but the core idea of is to find a low stress job you like that can get you to full FIRE. No two people are the same so that is kind of the point of all the different FIREs. Also, not everyone is FIRE is earning huge paychecks and working extra year or two at a full-time job isn't going to make a huge difference, because they don't have a full-time that pays $160K, they have a back breaking job that pays $60K, and they would much rather work at a job that pays $30K with medical at a bookstore. It is a job THEY like that allows them to leave a job THEY hate. Hence Barista FIRE." }, { "id": "t1_op8tb7j", "author": "/u/Worf65", "updated": "2026-06-02T02:33:03+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/op8tb7j/", "content": "Yeah when taken literally (barista or others of those rare part time retail or service jobs at a big company that provide health insurance) it seems like a terrible choice. There are worse jobs of course. But weather they provide health insurance or not all part time retail/service jobs come with some serious negatives someone who has been working a professional job with a set schedule won't be used to. There can be lots of drama with coworkers, upset difficult customers, and there's always an annoying unpredictable schedule making planning difficult and annoying people who like a set routine. Often just as few days off. Just 4-6 hr shifts instead of 8 or 9. If it was truly some passion job I'd get but that probably isn't Starbucks or Costco. The original "how can I get health insurance without working full time?" idea seems like it only makes sense if one unintentionally lost their job before they had saved enough.\n Now people who have stretched the meaning outside of that to work any kind of side job they enjoy does make a lot more sense. But the whole idea came from the health insurance thing not just an easier more fun job. So working for the local plant nursery or animal rescue or starting your own micro business doesn't work under that definition." }, { "id": "t1_op8tcmk", "author": "/u/Type-SH", "updated": "2026-06-02T02:33:18+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/op8tcmk/", "content": "I agree. I think CoastFIRE is the sweet spot. Or at least the most plausible alternative. I mean obviously we all want FatFIRE, haha." }, { "id": "t1_op8ts1v", "author": "/u/Ahrius", "updated": "2026-06-02T02:35:58+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/op8ts1v/", "content": "If you Barista Fire at a place like Chipotle or Starbucks, I believe they offer benefits to their part time employees as well." }, { "id": "t1_op8uqqq", "author": "/u/Johnyfootballhero", "updated": "2026-06-02T02:42:01+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/op8uqqq/", "content": "Doing this would be for the benefits too right?" }, { "id": "t1_op8wpen", "author": "/u/haveagoyamug2", "updated": "2026-06-02T02:54:18+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/op8wpen/", "content": "I call it FU Money. When you have enough in the bank or dividends coming through each month to not put up with crap.\n Boss sucks, walk away. Want to only work 6 months, cool. Need to save up 20k to buy that boat....... just do it.\n Options and no long term commitments." }, { "id": "t1_op8xbso", "author": "/u/No-Competition-1147", "updated": "2026-06-02T02:58:15+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/op8xbso/", "content": "Barista FIRE is when you work at starbucks or another job part-time just for the health insurance and the small paycheck is fun money." }, { "id": "t1_op8yoat", "author": "/u/RandomActOfAsianJob", "updated": "2026-06-02T03:06:56+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/op8yoat/", "content": "The jobs for Barista FIRE are a bit broad.\n I am a working professional. My idea of a barista job is a part time side consulting job. Less hours, less responsibilities, better respect, and making way more money than the type of jobs you are concerned about." }, { "id": "t1_op8z0mh", "author": "/u/CaliHusker83", "updated": "2026-06-02T03:09:11+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/op8z0mh/", "content": "Depends on what you’re into. I’d work for a golf course as a Marshall if I’d get paid a little and a free membership." }, { "id": "t1_op905dp", "author": "/u/SolutionPurple6077", "updated": "2026-06-02T03:16:39+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/op905dp/", "content": "Driving pizzas was the funnest job I’ve ever had. Great crew and good money for the time. Nowadays I’m not sure it’s the same. But I still got tired of it. I went part time at my “corporate job” for 6 months when my son was born and that was amazing! They don’t allow part time but made an exception to keep me. Barring those 2 specific situations, Barista FIRE is mostly a pipe dream. Will you be fulfilled being a greeter at Walmart for minimum wage? Probably not." }, { "id": "t1_op95z57", "author": "/u/pdx_mom", "updated": "2026-06-02T03:55:47+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/op95z57/", "content": "I love how you describe it as if you were showing the pizzas a good time." }, { "id": "t1_op96bsh", "author": "/u/SolutionPurple6077", "updated": "2026-06-02T03:58:12+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/op96bsh/", "content": "Take em out for a spin 😉" }, { "id": "t1_op92roz", "author": "/u/babies_galore", "updated": "2026-06-02T03:34:03+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/op92roz/", "content": "I was excited to volunteer at a state park in the gift shop because when I worked in corporate I would dream of working in a state or national park at a gift shop. And I used to enjoy retail jobs when I was young. I started my own business and I saw an opportunity to volunteer 4 hours a week at a state park and I took it. What surprised me big time was just how SLOW the time went by even if there were steady customers. I had been a nanny after corporate world and time flew by as a nanny for the most part. And time flies by with my current career but omg…I would be so blown away that I would constantly expect twice the amount of time to have gone by as did when I would look at my watch. I really can’t understand why time went so slow because I enjoyed the work OK and visiting with the visitors to the park and you know stocking things and whatever. It wasn’t a big deal. But for some reason, the time just dragged.\n The other thing that surprise me was how much my back hurt from only standing four hours! Like I didn’t even have an eight hour shift! Much less 40 hours a week! So it pretty much cemented the fact that I better try not to have to work 40 hours a week in retail in my old age! And I consider myself in pretty good shape, so that was a surprise!" }, { "id": "t1_op930rw", "author": "/u/Tasty-Day-581", "updated": "2026-06-02T03:35:44+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/op930rw/", "content": "The "unless" is certainly why they do it. It should be an interest or a passion I think. There are a lot of specialty retail jobs, and they pick one that suits their lifestyle.\n For me, I could go work at a ski area or shop, bike shop, outdoor store, golf course, fitness center, etc. Employees perks or discounts would be a priority. Without finding that connection or "knowing your why", then yes, overrated." }, { "id": "t1_op93lrn", "author": "/u/nommabelle", "updated": "2026-06-02T03:39:41+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/op93lrn/", "content": "100%. my super high paying job is miles less stressful and work than my first job in casual/fast food. fuck that so much. i'm at my FIRE number but if i werent, i would work more corporate years vs ending it early to be a barista" }, { "id": "t1_op95qi9", "author": "/u/pdx_mom", "updated": "2026-06-02T03:54:09+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/op95qi9/", "content": "Oh see I loved waiting tables but knew I couldn't do it forever. I would have done it too when I couldn't find a job but it was too much for my old body." }, { "id": "t1_op95y2n", "author": "/u/nommabelle", "updated": "2026-06-02T03:55:35+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/op95y2n/", "content": "i told myself at the time i'd go work at panera when i retired, because i loved the 'employee bucks' they gave which was 50% off lol. i also enjoyed the free food i got all the time, but that's largely changed. probably also the bucks." }, { "id": "t1_op94a7r", "author": "/u/imaclutz89", "updated": "2026-06-02T03:44:17+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/op94a7r/", "content": "I feel like a lot of people just get a random job like that for benefits. Staying 1-2 years extra in a FT job is not going to be enough to pay the thousands of dollars for health insurance a year every year in FIRE.\n For reference, my family of 4 pays $2k/mo on the marketplace and it’s a high deductible that pays for nothing until it’s met. That does not include dental either." }, { "id": "t1_op959gj", "author": "/u/prairie_buyer", "updated": "2026-06-02T03:50:54+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/op959gj/", "content": "I agree 100%.\n I think that a lot of people who followed a “professional” career path, with a life full of office jobs, are very naïve about the realities of low end jobs.\n Until I started my own business in my 30s, every job I had was toil -retail, food service, and even being an actual barista. To me, it’s insane to even consider “retiring” from a good job, only to be tied down to a crappy one." }, { "id": "t1_op99mvv", "author": "/u/skookumme", "updated": "2026-06-02T04:21:11+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/op99mvv/", "content": "I am not doing customer service but I would maybe like to work at the library, do ski patrol, or work for a nonprofit." }, { "id": "t1_op99pr7", "author": "/u/Moof_the_cyclist", "updated": "2026-06-02T04:21:45+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/op99pr7/", "content": "I too am quite skeptical of both the practicality and the math of Barista FIRE. When I was getting pretty burnt out a few things came up. Each extra year I worked increased my safe withdrawal dollar amount about 10% thanks to growth and a high savings rate. If I could get a job that just covered expenses it would have dropped to 4-5%. Failing to find an alternative job risked a serious setback. Working 2-2.5x more years for maybe less stress? Not sure that math maths.\n Finding a different job meant starting over, with no relevant skills as such, while also being viewed as overqualified. I am not a people person. I actually liked my job at its core, but was exhausted by bad internal customers, stupid schedules, awful managers, and a few bad coworkers I was tired of cleaning up behind. Much of those issues will be a part of any job, so maybe it would work, or maybe it would still be miserable without any built up history and seniority to rely on and to do so for twice as long.\n So for me swapping careers was just a far worse option than gritting it out for the last few years like I did." }, { "id": "t1_op99yw2", "author": "/u/The-zKR0N0S", "updated": "2026-06-02T04:23:34+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/op99yw2/", "content": "I dont think it is a good end goal.\n It is nice to have points along the way where you can measure your downside like barista fire" }, { "id": "t1_op9awzq", "author": "/u/i_tyrant", "updated": "2026-06-02T04:30:26+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/op9awzq/", "content": "Agreed. I’ve spent a fair bit of my life working retail and service jobs, I wouldn’t go back to them even if I got paid as much as I am now (which is the only way I’ve even been able to start my FIRE journey, and as-is I might be able to retire in my 50s at best).\n It’s kind of wild seeing all the folks saying oh I’ll just go be a barista/bartender/book store employee/movie theater for free movies/etc …when I’ve worked a lot of those jobs and all the upper management bullshit and customer/fellow employee drama involved often made it a special kind of hell.\n I’d be really curious to see what the statistics are on how long people baristafire at a single job. I wouldn’t be surprised if a lot of fire folks do it for a bit, realize or remember it does in fact suck, and quit or bounce around trying to find one that doesn’t.\n I’m sure it’s “better” when you don’t need that paycheck to live, but it can’t be that much better for most. High paying jobs deal with a lot of bullshit, but in my experience low paying jobs deal with just as much or more bullshit with the added cocktail that you have zero power to change anything too." }, { "id": "t1_op9bmp3", "author": "/u/NovelKumquat1234", "updated": "2026-06-02T04:35:37+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/op9bmp3/", "content": "If you still need to do that work for 40hrs/wk to get/maintain benefits, then yeah it’s overrated, and you’re prob not ready to FIRE anyway.\n I had a seasonal retail job last year while moving and in between “real” jobs. It was great! 1-2 days/wk, something fun and new, cool people, and at a place related to my hobbies where I enjoy shopping anyway. I got sweet discounts and prodeals so I was able to update my entire wardrobe and buy new gear for cheap. I’d absolutely go back to that for 1-2x a week in retirement purely for the discounts!\n … But if I was trying to do that retail job full-time 40hrs/wk?? Gawd no, I’d burn out within a month! It was exhausting! Long hours, minimal breaks, on my feet all day, mentally & emotionally draining customer service focus. Any more than 1/2 time would be too much." }, { "id": "t1_op9bwox", "author": "/u/AngryT-Rex", "updated": "2026-06-02T04:37:39+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/op9bwox/", "content": "I have worked a properly chill easy job: very small kitchen, just helping the friendly chef out. Just be reliable about being on time, cleaning, and prep, and everybody was happy. But... the pay was barely above minimum wage, 2-3 hours a day, free dinners but no other benefits.\n It was a spectacular job for a college student looking to cover meals and a little beer money, and I could see a retiree doing it just to have something on their schedule and a little bonus pocket change (once the chef is your buddy, you're kinda just hanging out with him for a couple hours). But that was a really lucky job to get into, just signing up for your neighborhood Starbucks isn't gonna get you that." }, { "id": "t1_op9dtu5", "author": "/u/Acrobatic-Song-3151", "updated": "2026-06-02T04:51:47+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/op9dtu5/", "content": "My summer job at the parks dept has been lovely so far. Once fall hits I’ll go back to the school corporation for the 8:30-4pm that is nearly stress free. All I’m really doing is staying active, in shape, and making money so I don’t have to watch my variable weekly expenses much." }, { "id": "t1_op9eb9n", "author": "/u/Upbeat_Ad_3958", "updated": "2026-06-02T04:55:24+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/op9eb9n/", "content": "Why not try volunteering at a place for a while to see if youd like to get paid shifts. I have done that at a thrift store. In the end, I just like organizing things and could use the health insurance. Volunteer at a hospital after a while, they will put you to work if you like it." }, { "id": "t1_op9ekt6", "author": "/u/Appropriate-Bar6993", "updated": "2026-06-02T04:57:24+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/op9ekt6/", "content": "Or part time at a high paying job if that is possible." }, { "id": "t1_op9msko", "author": "/u/9NightsNine", "updated": "2026-06-02T06:01:48+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/op9msko/", "content": "Barista Fire is often about more then the money.\n Having a lot of free time can turn into a problem. People might get bored, spend more money because of the boredom or lose a lot of structure in their live.\n A somewhat comfortable job, even if it is just a few hours a week, can give structure, something to do, change the monotony etc.\n And there is a massive difference if you bartend for a living or only do it once a week." }, { "id": "t1_op9pd1t", "author": "/u/EquipmentUnlikely895", "updated": "2026-06-02T06:22:48+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/op9pd1t/", "content": "I don't consider Barista Fire as FIRE. It's just prolonging the agony and somewhat delusional. The only time I think it's fine is when you want to try out different type of work." }, { "id": "t1_op9s7sw", "author": "/u/Kriya198888", "updated": "2026-06-02T06:46:15+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/op9s7sw/", "content": "I totally agree on that" }, { "id": "t1_op9wz6i", "author": "/u/Cornish_spex", "updated": "2026-06-02T07:26:01+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/op9wz6i/", "content": "I tend to agree with you. Most people were happiest in their youth in a low level job and romanticize the idea in addition to salivating over getting cheap insurance. The reality is that after being respected at a professional job it is hard to go into the service industry.\n I will say that stuff like working at the driving range or low level job in a hobby industry can be nice." }, { "id": "t1_opa0ive", "author": "/u/Aggravating_Ad7022", "updated": "2026-06-02T07:56:47+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/opa0ive/", "content": "Barista is a very stressfull job m when to cant tell your boss to fuck up and walk away becouse you need to eat and pay rent, when you dont have those problems should be fine" }, { "id": "t1_opa0ocg", "author": "/u/KanedaSyndrome", "updated": "2026-06-02T07:58:06+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/opa0ocg/", "content": "What is Barista FIRE?" }, { "id": "t1_opa38lf", "author": "/u/throwRAQA25", "updated": "2026-06-02T08:20:23+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/opa38lf/", "content": "I worked at a state park cleaning public toilets and it was my favorite job I’ve ever had. I worked with a lot of older folks who were semi retired and I’d gladly do that instead of the bs corporate job I have now." }, { "id": "t1_opa4e9s", "author": "/u/AlexTheRedditor97", "updated": "2026-06-02T08:30:33+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/opa4e9s/", "content": "Barista fire to me means opening a small company lol" }, { "id": "t1_opa7irz", "author": "/u/strimd", "updated": "2026-06-02T08:57:52+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/opa7irz/", "content": "I knew a girl who barista fired by financing a hostel in a pretty great location. She made a bit of money, didn't have to do too much other than check people in, and used to take her pick of which guys to sleep with.\n When you dont have financial pressure things are different." }, { "id": "t1_opa7uhw", "author": "/u/2doors_2trunks", "updated": "2026-06-02T09:00:41+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/opa7uhw/", "content": "I believe it comes from the certain cases where barman has so many benefits (high turnover of young female waitresses, giving you high respect) that he doesn’t even want to leave for a better salary or conditions. Thats what I thought it means" }, { "id": "t1_opa9lv9", "author": "/u/Kokukenji", "updated": "2026-06-02T09:16:04+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/opa9lv9/", "content": "Having the option is great tho." }, { "id": "t1_opa9pcj", "author": "/u/Soggy_Ant3833", "updated": "2026-06-02T09:16:54+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/opa9pcj/", "content": "My barista fire will be my same area of expertise but working part time eg 2 days per week. I love my work so I’m very happy to do this and am so looking forward to it!" }, { "id": "t1_opaa5ed", "author": "/u/marheena", "updated": "2026-06-02T09:20:42+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/opaa5ed/", "content": "The better post would be “Tell me you best barista FIRE job opportunities.” I always see this one, but never a post soliciting examples of jobs that would actually be low stress. Barista ain’t it." }, { "id": "t1_opaaj2e", "author": "/u/Hour-Bullfrog4829", "updated": "2026-06-02T09:23:57+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/opaaj2e/", "content": "My barista fire is buying an apartment building, living off the rent, and being the super. Maybe doing some low-bono work at a legal nonprofit. Using my existing skill set but at a bad paying job with lower hours expectations." }, { "id": "t1_opab9co", "author": "/u/HelpUsNSaveUs", "updated": "2026-06-02T09:30:11+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/opab9co/", "content": "I’d rather be slow making someone’s drink or making their sandwich or spend hours power washing a deck than deal with managing 14 direct reports and forecasting sales numbers for current and next fiscal quarter, especially if I owned my house and had over $1m in a brokerage account" }, { "id": "t1_opad3kk", "author": "/u/bunrieu4BLD", "updated": "2026-06-02T09:45:43+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/opad3kk/", "content": "PREACH ON.\n imho early retirement should be all or nothing. barista fire is fucking DUMB." }, { "id": "t1_opag4p4", "author": "/u/Wingineer", "updated": "2026-06-02T10:09:59+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/opag4p4/", "content": "I've always thought the whole idea of baristaFIRE to be ridiculous. If I'm working, why would I quit my current job to work another job for 10% of the comp." }, { "id": "t1_opagh6l", "author": "/u/Wild_Butterscotch482", "updated": "2026-06-02T10:12:40+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/opagh6l/", "content": "I always thought of the barista job as a means of staying connected to other humans and maintaining structure, though maybe I misunderstood the definition. I wouldn’t mind working a few days a week at a local shop if I find that my hobbies, social network, and travel still leave too much idle time. It would have to be one of the more laid back independent businesses, though, not a stressful Starbucks." }, { "id": "t1_opai06i", "author": "/u/LightZealousideal116", "updated": "2026-06-02T10:24:18+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/opai06i/", "content": "Hard to say. Is there nobody with hobbies where they’d like to work?" }, { "id": "t1_opaixip", "author": "/u/Public_Excitement393", "updated": "2026-06-02T10:31:17+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/opaixip/", "content": "100% agree!" }, { "id": "t1_opalb5x", "author": "/u/Master_Coconut_4332", "updated": "2026-06-02T10:48:37+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/opalb5x/", "content": "A lot of people have clearly never worked a GOOD hospitality/retail job in their lives. There's a big difference between working for a shitty corporate chain vs a smaller local place with good and loyal customers and a healthy working environment. I know an awful lot of people that would have stayed in hospitality/retail fulltime if the wages allowed but only left due to needing to earn more." }, { "id": "t1_opalsz9", "author": "/u/dirkd69xo", "updated": "2026-06-02T10:52:05+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/opalsz9/", "content": "If you’ve got hundreds of thousands or millions in the bank account, being a barista isn’t too stressful." }, { "id": "t1_opaplwm", "author": "/u/vinean", "updated": "2026-06-02T11:18:06+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/opaplwm/", "content": "It is when your managers are complete tools." }, { "id": "t1_opauiza", "author": "/u/dirkd69xo", "updated": "2026-06-02T11:49:29+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/opauiza/", "content": "I’d imagine so. But you can just quit. You’re not living paycheck to paycheck. There are other cafes or similar places you can work" }, { "id": "t1_opanv4n", "author": "/u/purple_mountain_cat", "updated": "2026-06-02T11:06:19+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/opanv4n/", "content": "I had a valuable experience just after moving from VHCOL to MHCOL area. Burned out, I had decided to leave my career and try other jobs. I had three very different jobs in the span of a year. I was drawn to each of them because they were places I patronized or that had a decent total benefits package. They all sucked in different ways. The people who worked at those places were definitely not thrilled to be working there (save for the senior team members who got way more perks).\n I hurried back to my career and questioned all my barista FIRE dreams / assumptions.\n I will gladly work a few extra years in my current demanding job to avoid going back to hourly wage. I have so much gratitude for my privilege to have such a job!" }, { "id": "t1_opapl1b", "author": "/u/thatsplatgal", "updated": "2026-06-02T11:17:57+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/opapl1b/", "content": "I fired and traveled full time for 8 yrs. One year I did barista. I made $70k consulting for a couple of companies 4-hrs per day. When I analyzed my financials at the end of the year, I ended up spending more money that year - to rent a house, gym, and all the other costs in the US that are significantly higher. I ultimately decided that traveling was not only cheaper but certainly more fun. Now I live in Italy." }, { "id": "t1_opas3pd", "author": "/u/BigCSFan", "updated": "2026-06-02T11:34:22+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/opas3pd/", "content": "I mean if you are working full time fast food. Sure that sounds like it sucks.\n Teaching a subject you like and having a better schedule and summers off? That could be great.\n I want to try research. Going for a PHD right now wouldnt make sense with opportunity costs, but plan now is to pursue it when I retire with the stipend just being a bonus rather than a necessity." }, { "id": "t1_opaxe0l", "author": "/u/Theyna", "updated": "2026-06-02T12:06:32+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/opaxe0l/", "content": "Barista fire doesn't mean actually working as a Barista or some other low paying soul sucking job. It means cutting down on hours while being partially "retired"." }, { "id": "t1_opb0tyy", "author": "/u/jeffeb3", "updated": "2026-06-02T12:26:15+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/opb0tyy/", "content": "Starbucks is the common example. And it does suck. But there are other jobs that could qualify. Govt jobs are a good example. Steady conditions, low pay, good benefits, and you get to leave it at work when you clock out.\n Compare that to some high level sales job (like mortgage wholesaler). Lots of feast or famine. When things are good, they can be really high paying. You're never truely off the clock. There are months when you work just as hard and get zero commissions, essentially working for free. Everyone around you is cut throat. A few down months and the company will fold or you could get laid off.\n Given that perspective, I would barristaFIRE if I could. No contest. Not everyone has a job they like and there are lots of low end jobs." }, { "id": "t1_opb0umw", "author": "/u/steve_gorak", "updated": "2026-06-02T12:26:22+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/opb0umw/", "content": "I got an Uber one time with a guy that appeared to be in his 80s. I usually chat a bit with the driver but this guy was grumpy and didn't seem to want to talk. He did tell me that he was a lawyer in NYC and we actually went past his house which could more accurately be described as a large estate. I don't know why he was driving Uber as he didn't seem to enjoy it. Maybe he needed the money after retiring as a lawyer." }, { "id": "t1_opb2qkf", "author": "/u/EANx_Diver", "updated": "2026-06-02T12:36:55+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/opb2qkf/", "content": "Your post assumes all part time jobs suck. That's often not the case. Your post also assumes someone is doing BaristaFIRE because they have to. Many people do so for the social engagement, the fact that the job is in a particular interest area and the money is gravy, allowing for an extra vacation or some other treat.\n If you love gardening and can otherwise FIRE, BaristaFIRE is more likely to be working part time at a nursery than at a shoe store or restaurant." }, { "id": "t1_opbaf3m", "author": "/u/WilliamMButtlickerIV", "updated": "2026-06-02T13:17:19+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/opbaf3m/", "content": "Yeah, I agree barista FI is mostly a delusion. I also feel the same about coast FI. It sounds cool in theory, but if you're stopping saving for retirement, it means your spending is going up. It feels like most of these flavors of FI are just retooled garbage influencers create to get more views." }, { "id": "t1_opbai7i", "author": "/u/Vagadude", "updated": "2026-06-02T13:17:45+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/opbai7i/", "content": "Man the best job I've had was tasting room at Cooper's hawk. You just pour wine and talk to people. Nobody hates the guy giving you free or extra wine. I would totally work that job again. Or actually barista fire at a COOL cafe. You can pick your places" }, { "id": "t1_opbakjd", "author": "/u/253-build", "updated": "2026-06-02T13:18:04+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/opbakjd/", "content": "I would take my high school gig if it was available. It was a grocery store. That specific store. I have friends in grocery who hate it.\n Alternatively, I enjoy the technical aspects of my career, but not the management component. God, to be in a technical-only role! Some people land that role late-career, but it is pretty rare.\n I've given your point some thought recently. I think it is wise." }, { "id": "t1_opbcpvo", "author": "/u/brick1972", "updated": "2026-06-02T13:28:44+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/opbcpvo/", "content": "I realize this is all discussion and this post got a lot of engagement, but I think like most things this is a personal choice. There are some conflating factors, like I would say the thing that is 100% most "overrated" is tying healthcare to employment (the entire reason baristafire even came about) but our politicians (and 30% or so of the country) seem to love it!\n I also think by modern definitions this whole "baristafi is elitist intellectuals thinking blue collar work is easy" is kind of a bad take. It started mostly as burnt out people frustrated that they had to work to have decent health insurance and deciding they could leave the office grind for a coffee grind or something that gave them better work/life balance. A lot of people look at barista these days more like easing into a different style role - maybe consulting, maybe getting out of management. Or, switching career to something that has different perks than salary (for instance, I know a bunch of "baristaFI" people that work for travel companies so they get cheaper travel). This has always been happening but now we just apply this barista tag any time someone is doing something to less than their potential maximum income. I guess that's fine but all these definitions in conflict mean you can define barista however you want and tear it down however you want.\n I guess the other thing to consider is that a lot of people here and in all of the investment forums seem to think Covid or 2022 inflation spike was the worst thing they will ever see in their lives and that they will see their nest egg grow reliably by 10-20% every year. In that environment with those assumptions, sure, financially it can be the same to just work hard for a couple more years to grow that egg. But, there are other environments where having some stable income is actually more beneficial than a bigger egg. Nevermind the fact that some people actually like to work and the structure of a schedule, they are just burnt out on their job or want to get from 60-70 hours to 30-40 and also not be looking at their phone at 10:30 PM because someone sent a teams message.\n In the end it's really about personal choice.\n FTR I consider myself BaristaFI even though I have the same position I had in my career. But now I do it as a consultant, clearly define the bullshit I don't feel like dealing with, go to the office only when I want to schedule a day in the office, etc." }, { "id": "t1_opbf1yj", "author": "/u/Vicuna00", "updated": "2026-06-02T13:40:19+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/opbf1yj/", "content": "yeah I agree. "one-more-year" is underrated.\n and agreed, like you said, if you have a sure thing lined up - or you're gonna create your own sure thing (own biz / complete career change i.e. going from a software engineer to a dog walker).\n ETA: for me personally, I am looking to do Barista-Fire after I fully Fire - as a bonus / extra extra safety net / just cause I like buying stuff - and I found a barista fire career I wanna do...just wanna not rely on it. so I guess not technically barista-fire." }, { "id": "t1_opc0tq4", "author": "/u/Gandalf-and-Frodo", "updated": "2026-06-02T15:21:13+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/opc0tq4/", "content": "What career is that?" }, { "id": "t1_opcsxbe", "author": "/u/Vicuna00", "updated": "2026-06-02T17:23:46+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/opcsxbe/", "content": "I am a chiropractor with my own biz. I am gonna wind down my office and work on animals...horses and dogs. i'll travel to people's farms, adjust some animals, not deal with all the complications of a biz. it'll still be a biz but i'll set whatever hours and stuff myself...and not be stuck to one specific schedule. I'll prob be going from $250k years to $40-50k? I really have no idea. I might make zero. might make more. no idea. I'll be able to use and keep improving my skills and still be useful.\n I've never worked on an animal before. the training takes ~ one year. I start school for that in september. $-wise I am "one more year" from being what I consider fully FI for life (if markets don't do anything silly)\n so it's within what I enjoy minus a lot of what I don't." }, { "id": "t1_opgtjoo", "author": "/u/X-Calm", "updated": "2026-06-03T06:38:05+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/opgtjoo/", "content": "I'm pretty sure your job is just a pseudo science that insurance companies use to pay as little money for "medical care" as possible." }, { "id": "t1_opbga7x", "author": "/u/JudgeDreadditor", "updated": "2026-06-02T13:46:20+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/opbga7x/", "content": "I retired in 2022 and have taken a few jobs to gain skills, fill my days with activity, and set some structure to my week.\n My main post-retirement gig has been tutoring, and I worked in a franchise tutoring center as a built up my private client base. It was a great activity, keeping me young at heart working primarily with High Schoolers.\n I took a tutoring temp job with our local state university, which was fun, and also put me on their rolls (as a temp). That has given me free access to most of the major AI offerings, which has given me the opportunity to fool around and learn about AI.\n On a whim, I took a job in a local snooty grocery store’s bakery, which gave me tons of reps to practice my sourdough and dough handling skills. I couldn’t handle the disruption to my sleep schedule, and quit after a month, but will always remember the all-nighters baking hundreds of loaves for Thanksgiving and Christmas.\n All of these activities were paid, but the selection criteria and drive to work there were not the money or pay rate.\n I love my version of barista-fire.\n Meat cutting, golf course ranger, and some sort of cooking job are still on the list!" }, { "id": "t1_opbgqky", "author": "/u/hinault81", "updated": "2026-06-02T13:48:35+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/opbgqky/", "content": "Just depends the job. I know a couple people that did that for 5 years before retirement (before the term even existed), and it was more about doing something completely different from their regular job.\n They were tired of their job. Took on a lower paying job they liked. One worked at a golf course, for example.\n Obviously any retail job where youre dealing with a lot of customers is going to suck lol." }, { "id": "t1_opbh5kk", "author": "/u/Own-Raise6153", "updated": "2026-06-02T13:50:37+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/opbh5kk/", "content": "i think most people who glorify barista FIRE are folks who haven’t actually been baristas and are in for quite the shock when they realize it isn’t just all fun and games lol" }, { "id": "t1_opbj9g3", "author": "/u/DbPugs", "updated": "2026-06-02T14:00:44+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/opbj9g3/", "content": "I see it as you are FI but dont want to RE so you have the opprotunity to be very upfront and honest about your expectations with employers." }, { "id": "t1_opbl2q9", "author": "/u/xanaxhelps", "updated": "2026-06-02T14:09:25+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/opbl2q9/", "content": "My plan is to do something I would volunteer to do anyway, like work in a plant store. Then it uses some of my time and I have some living money. But honestly my plan is FIRE with barista for cash more than Barista FIRE." }, { "id": "t1_opbn4ia", "author": "/u/InsertNovelAnswer", "updated": "2026-06-02T14:19:05+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/opbn4ia/", "content": "Barista Fire can be for people who have hobby jobs. A friend of mine wood works for fun and gets paid because why not. He also can't sit still but wants the freedom of FIRE. Its not an insane amount of money but it's extra steady income. My brother runs tabel top games for 15-20/person per session. He enjoys running games and might as well get paid for it.\n Not all Barista Fire jobs are jobs at Starbucks or something." }, { "id": "t1_opbnclp", "author": "/u/HicEstLeoSuperbus", "updated": "2026-06-02T14:20:06+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/opbnclp/", "content": "I mean, my "barista" FIRE is me riding out a low-stress remote job in my field, not particularly caring about trying to maximize absolute $/year, but $/hour of actual work. All those times in my career where I was the only person on the team who cared to do a good job and had to pick up other people's slack? Guess what: now it's my turn to NGaF, and I don't care if I'm fired because I'm effectively FI." }, { "id": "t1_opbnld5", "author": "/u/LetsGoToMichigan", "updated": "2026-06-02T14:21:13+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/opbnld5/", "content": "Yeah I struggle with it as well. My current high paying job has stress and pressure, no doubt. But I'm also working from the comfort of my own home most days and have some control over my schedule. The expectations of *what* I must deliver are high, but they largely leave the *how* up to me. In most low level jobs you don't get any say in the *how*, which can be really frustrating if their policies and expected procedures are inefficient or outright dumb. In most white collar work, there's usually some appetite for feedback from the workers if it can improve outcomes. I don't think that's nearly as common for low level / retail work.\n I think a more realistic approach for me would be to take a lower paying job in the same industry at a lesser company that isn't filled with over-achievers all hoping to be the next Elon Musk. My biggest beef isn't the work itself so much as the insufferable corporate pageantry of my peers who are all fighting for scraps to get promoted." }, { "id": "t1_opbr6ee", "author": "/u/Kind_Clock7584", "updated": "2026-06-02T14:37:48+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/opbr6ee/", "content": "Solo lawyer FIRE is better" }, { "id": "t1_opbx2mh", "author": "/u/Slow-Condition7942", "updated": "2026-06-02T15:04:28+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/opbx2mh/", "content": "“just work an extra year or two” lmfao" }, { "id": "t1_opc1ir6", "author": "/u/bellecaramella", "updated": "2026-06-02T15:24:16+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/opc1ir6/", "content": "I would love to be barista fire and work by the beach as a kayak shack or some outdoor areas like a park ranger or something else." }, { "id": "t1_opc20lk", "author": "/u/lazyeyejim", "updated": "2026-06-02T15:26:25+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/opc20lk/", "content": "I don't think it's overrated, it's just a different method to the same result (retirement). The beauty of it, is if the person has enough wealth, they can tell toxic managers to piss off. One of the best side effects of being financially independent is that you don't have to work a horrible job to pay the rent. You can walk out and live on your savings while looking for a new job.\n Also, in my experience, once a manager realizes you don't have to be there, their attitude changes." }, { "id": "t1_opc3inl", "author": "/u/work2game", "updated": "2026-06-02T15:32:55+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/opc3inl/", "content": "My parents did barista before it was a thing. My mother had a chronic health issue and insurance without an employer in the us was going to require a bigger nest egg but they truly didn’t need money elsewhere. So she taught at her local community college and then a local university. She spent more on school supplies than her salary so it was far from coast fi and she was waiting out the clock for Medicare.\n This is number 1 in the above post.\n My brother in law is a programmer who just cleared coast fi and is in number 2. Realizing he likes his job more than jobs that pay less so just do a few more years at it and the money they don’t need will let them skip barista." }, { "id": "t1_opc3w5u", "author": "/u/blazethatnugget", "updated": "2026-06-02T15:34:34+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/opc3w5u/", "content": "I've considered becoming an off leash dog walker, seasonal ski instructor, work at a music venue perhaps... but I've also framed houses and worked in food service and wouldn't go back to that type of work atmosphere as its pure labor and not so much a fun atmosphere... But end of the day, work is work and still a couple more years before I could consider that type of switch. Grinding it out at the higher paying job is my main pathway to FIRE, but baristaish seems like a good option to pass the time if you get bored being retired." }, { "id": "t1_opc3yat", "author": "/u/Hopper_77", "updated": "2026-06-02T15:34:49+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/opc3yat/", "content": "I agree that people are clueless how service industry is. I’ve worked as a dishwasher it was brutal and also as a cashier. I think the one pro to these jobs is it won’t make you existential. Working corporate is brutal in its own way, constantly worrying about performance, corpo politics, upskilling, layoffs causes burnout. TBH I’m at a point where if money isn’t an issue I don’t mind pushing carts. Again i understand it’s not easy." }, { "id": "t1_opc50e5", "author": "/u/rair21", "updated": "2026-06-02T15:39:30+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/opc50e5/", "content": "I met a guy yesterday who was retired in his 40s and super excited for his new part time job at the zoo." }, { "id": "t1_opcb8z4", "author": "/u/AnySun1519", "updated": "2026-06-02T16:06:44+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/opcb8z4/", "content": "If I was going to do it I would work for Trader Joe’s. I worked there in college and it was a lot of fun. I still miss it to this day sometimes." }, { "id": "t1_opcfk5g", "author": "/u/Otherwise-Relief2248", "updated": "2026-06-02T16:25:32+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/opcfk5g/", "content": "Yeah. I don’t get the romanticism of having enough money for the basics, but everything else requires a job that is stressful af. Seems like a bad plan, but ymmv." }, { "id": "t1_opcggde", "author": "/u/Environmental-Low792", "updated": "2026-06-02T16:29:29+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/opcggde/", "content": "I love my barista fire job. It's mostly from home, doing basic data entry. It's less than 40 hours a week yet it still gives me sick time, holiday time, health insurance. Management is great and the role is extremely laid back." }, { "id": "t1_opcidfv", "author": "/u/ChaoticAmoebae", "updated": "2026-06-02T16:37:54+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/opcidfv/", "content": "For me I love to cook. Getting to work part time at some of my favorite restaurants to improve my cooking skills is a dream for me. Those environments are also not as stressful when a potential bad manager gives you attitude you have flexibility to walk away without being homeless. I do it at leanfire numbers so I can have chubbyfire spending." }, { "id": "t1_opcj0h1", "author": "/u/ricthomas70", "updated": "2026-06-02T16:40:41+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/opcj0h1/", "content": "I have always used the opportunity to do meaningful but low paid and casual work in line with my skills. I am a teacher in a specialist field. Some of the roles I have taken were teaching online to developing countries, teaching casually at uni and have months off over summer, volunteering in an overseas organisation that paid for me to travel, mentoring underprivileged kids.\n If I were a barista for example, a job I would not enjoy, I would try and line that up as a role in an aged care centre, to chat with old people or in a disability service... Anything to make the context more valuable..." }, { "id": "t1_opcout5", "author": "/u/Hot-Security-1034", "updated": "2026-06-02T17:06:05+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/opcout5/", "content": "What about working part-time in the same sort of career? I see a lot of engineers go to part time consulting work, which I would consider that Barista FIRE, and would be lower stress but not necessarily "go to a service position" like you seem to be thinking." }, { "id": "t1_opcqkuh", "author": "/u/rutherford_bohr123", "updated": "2026-06-02T17:13:33+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/opcqkuh/", "content": "It must have been a name for FIRE when you reach a net worth you're not worried of being fired anymore." }, { "id": "t1_opcreby", "author": "/u/CptnREDmark", "updated": "2026-06-02T17:17:06+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/opcreby/", "content": "To each their own, I have worked at starbucks and I really liked it. Actually I loved it.\n But I'm also thick skinned and very little bothers me, I'm canadian so I don't need full time work for health insurance.\n Starbucks was great." }, { "id": "t1_opcutkh", "author": "/u/Digity1980", "updated": "2026-06-02T17:31:55+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/opcutkh/", "content": "I'm FIRE and I submitted resumes for part time jobs and didn't get a single response due to being overqualified (I assume)." }, { "id": "t1_opcycdd", "author": "/u/Spartikis", "updated": "2026-06-02T17:47:05+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/opcycdd/", "content": "Agreed. I cant fathom being on my feet all day serving snippy customers with a boss breathing down my neck to brew coffee faster. F**k that! Better off sticking in your professional career field and finding a low stress position, which could be as simple as working reduced hours. I'm an engineer and know a surprisingly large number of engineers that work reduced hours. Its not a bad career field if you only have to work 20-30 hrs a week. I used to work 50-60 hours at my old just and found a position where I only work 40 hours, honestly feels like a vacation compared to the last company." }, { "id": "t1_opd3kpx", "author": "/u/lexicon_riot", "updated": "2026-06-02T18:09:40+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/opd3kpx/", "content": "NGL I'd love to work at like a book store, library, etc. Somewhere clean where I can aura farm in peace." }, { "id": "t1_opd56bh", "author": "/u/Sufficient_Winner686", "updated": "2026-06-02T18:16:38+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/opd56bh/", "content": "My version of barista fire is selling covered calls on SPY lol" }, { "id": "t1_opdcyy6", "author": "/u/Technical-Expert-289", "updated": "2026-06-02T18:50:56+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/opdcyy6/", "content": "idk i quite enjoyed being a dominos delivery driver" }, { "id": "t1_opdee29", "author": "/u/tpet007", "updated": "2026-06-02T18:57:10+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/opdee29/", "content": "Makes more sense to cut your current job down to just the things you like, go part time, consult in your field, something like that vs. going to a totally different job IMHO." }, { "id": "t1_opdff2f", "author": "/u/re4ctor", "updated": "2026-06-02T19:01:41+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/opdff2f/", "content": "It’s a very different thing to work a job where you don’t actually depend on it to live and if you only get 10 hours one week it really doesn’t matter much. The perspective and stress you feel from it is vastly different" }, { "id": "t1_opdj01m", "author": "/u/Your_Worship", "updated": "2026-06-02T19:17:54+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/opdj01m/", "content": "I once had a job answering phones in college for a graduate office. Literally scrolled FB (was popular then) and answered phones and occasionally answered a question.\n That would be a Barista Fire gig." }, { "id": "t1_opdlo60", "author": "/u/mr_j_boogie", "updated": "2026-06-02T19:30:06+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/opdlo60/", "content": "Many of us can take vacation days just about whenever we need them, with very little notice. Many of us have really hands off supervisors who rarely give really direct commands.\n Not so for shift workers.\n Barista fire seems like a step backwards on the freedometer." }, { "id": "t1_opdo4vg", "author": "/u/RobertClarks", "updated": "2026-06-02T19:41:27+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/opdo4vg/", "content": "I think people underestimate how much of Barista FIRE's appeal comes from the fantasy version.\n In the fantasy, you work 15 hours a week at a chill bookstore, chat with customers, and get health insurance.\n In reality, a lot of part time jobs involve unpredictable schedules, difficult customers, mediocre managers, and very little control over your time.\n The irony is that many people pursue FIRE because they want autonomy, then Barista FIRE puts them right back under a boss.\n If working one or two more years at a high paying job eliminates that tradeoff, it's often a pretty good deal.\n The best version of FIRE I've seen isn't retiring from work. It's reaching the point where work becomes optional and you only do things you actually want to do. At that point whether you're invested in VTI, MPLY, or anything else matters a lot less than having control of your time." }, { "id": "t1_opdq1xi", "author": "/u/thetreece", "updated": "2026-06-02T19:50:16+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/opdq1xi/", "content": "I have romanticized thoughts of just mowing yards, edging, and trimming after I quit my physician job. That's low stress. Stay active, get steps in. Can take on additional work if you feel like it, can make your own schedule." }, { "id": "t1_ope0j19", "author": "/u/Libertae-Fire", "updated": "2026-06-02T20:38:21+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/ope0j19/", "content": "Fair point, and your experience is real — a lot of people romanticize the “chill part-time job” without having actually worked one recently.\n But I’d push back slightly: Barista FIRE isn’t really about the job. It’s about the optionality. Having healthcare covered and $800–1,000/month coming in changes your withdrawal math significantly, which can mean the difference between pulling the trigger at 42 vs. 45.\n The key word in your post is sure thing. You’re right that random part-time work is often miserable. But someone who lines up 20 hours/week doing something they’d almost do for free — teaching, coaching, consulting in their field — that’s a different calculation entirely.\n Your alternative of “one or two more years full-time” is also completely valid and probably underrated in the Barista FIRE conversation. Clean break, fully funded, no dependency on employment.\n Both paths work. Knowing yourself well enough to pick the right one is the actual skill." }, { "id": "t1_ope2r9i", "author": "/u/imrealbadattaxes", "updated": "2026-06-02T20:48:37+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/ope2r9i/", "content": "My version is to just cut my hours by 2/3. I like my current job but don’t want to be full time.\n Retierment accounts and mortgages should be in a good enough spot by the end of 2027 that we can both work part time to cover today’s expenses and retire fully in ~15 years (45). Which works out nice with our kids being young right now\n So semi coast semi barista fire. But if you have a job you like and can just reduce your hours that beats a minimum wage job imo" }, { "id": "t1_opeb10h", "author": "/u/Tomorrow-Memory-8838", "updated": "2026-06-02T21:27:58+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/opeb10h/", "content": "I don't think you necessarily need to do minimum wage work. The idea is just to do part time work. For example, you can do consulting work part time in your industry maybe even with your employer. I know my company has a senior dev working part time in semi-retirement. So I think it can be an option if you can work it out with your employer." }, { "id": "t1_opeo61c", "author": "/u/FastMoon1993", "updated": "2026-06-02T22:34:35+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/opeo61c/", "content": "Yeah, people romanticize part-time work way too much... The worst managers I've ever had were at jobs paying the least. If you're close enough to consider barista FIRE, you're prob close enough to just grind it out a bit longer and actually be done." }, { "id": "t1_opeshfl", "author": "/u/personalfinancedumbo", "updated": "2026-06-02T22:57:27+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/opeshfl/", "content": "lmaoo literally. Every time I hear someone talk about Barista FIRE here, i'm like did you people ever work a minimum wage job ever? I'm working until I can fully stop" }, { "id": "t1_opf5j97", "author": "/u/Wozzel888", "updated": "2026-06-03T00:09:35+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/opf5j97/", "content": "Can someone explain what’s barista fire?" }, { "id": "t1_opfek48", "author": "/u/ExposedId", "updated": "2026-06-03T01:00:30+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/opfek48/", "content": "The short version is that you build up a portfolio with a high paying (possibly stressful) job for a while, but not to the point where you have a good nest egg, but can’t completely cover all of your expenses if you fully retired. Then you switch to a lower stress job for some income and healthcare coverage while you let your portfolio continue to grow on its own (taking out as little as possible, but not really adding much to it).\n For example, you in tech until you’re 40 and build up $1M in a high cost area. Then you move to a lower cost area and work in a coffee shop (or book store or movie theater or bait shop or whatever)." }, { "id": "t1_opff0vw", "author": "/u/Wozzel888", "updated": "2026-06-03T01:03:09+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/opff0vw/", "content": "Thanks!" }, { "id": "t1_opf92dg", "author": "/u/Time_Wealth1295", "updated": "2026-06-03T00:29:24+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/opf92dg/", "content": "Might be better to just consider opening your own specialty shop. I’ve seen so many pop off lately. But I agree, any type of service industry job attracts drama and toxic people." }, { "id": "t1_opfetdk", "author": "/u/Unlikely-Alt-9383", "updated": "2026-06-03T01:01:58+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/opfetdk/", "content": "I would like to try working at Trader Joe’s but those jobs are hella competitive!" }, { "id": "t1_opfi67t", "author": "/u/Mayor_of_BBQ", "updated": "2026-06-03T01:20:59+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/opfi67t/", "content": "You’re absolutely right! BaristaFire or BartenderFire is probably a bad pick…. i’d most likely bicycle shop fire or plant nursery fire or something if i was going to do it.\n but if i gotta work, what’s the point of fire in the first place? Work my ‘real’ job for 3 more years & stack cash… or pull the plug and work a shitty service job for 9 years of my ‘retirement’" }, { "id": "t1_opfihli", "author": "/u/bobterwillager", "updated": "2026-06-03T01:22:48+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/opfihli/", "content": "Nearing my barebones fire number and I've been thinking about jobs where i could work minimum hours to get health insurance and the mental fulfillment of being out of the house doing something new. While still having flexibility to travel and do cool shit on my terms. I recognize that i need some motivational stressIbut I wouldnt consider any of these stressful in the way a barista job is...\n\n- From a IT exec standpoint, maybe a nonprofit board or public board. (Not for everyone)\n\n- Harbor worker - Wouldn't want to take jobs from students that do this as their summer job though. But i do like being near the water and essentially hanging out.\n\n- Boatyard help- Start of the season putting boats in the water, end of season pulling them out and trailering them to storage." }, { "id": "t1_opg25e8", "author": "/u/rivalrobot", "updated": "2026-06-03T03:18:50+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/opg25e8/", "content": "I think it all depends on where you’re at on your FIRE journey and what you actually want to do.\n I’m coastFIRE at this point. I’m fortunate enough that I love what I do for a living. It’s (mostly) low-stress, enjoyable work that pays well, at least for now. I don’t plan to quit in the near future.\n E: I should not that I’m Canada, so wouldn’t necessarily need to work for expensive health insurance." }, { "id": "t1_opg7fnk", "author": "/u/DelilahBT", "updated": "2026-06-03T03:53:40+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/opg7fnk/", "content": "Currently BaristaFIRE and am glad for the low commitment lifestyle that adds structure and socialization to part of my week.\n I’m meeting people more like who I used to be (high earning professionals) but now I’m the person helping them. They have no idea of course, but I will say that I put up with very little BS and generally am smart and hard working.\n So, it’s really not bad at all (or I wouldn’t be doing it)." }, { "id": "t1_opgj7x8", "author": "/u/Ruleyoumind", "updated": "2026-06-03T05:17:18+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/opgj7x8/", "content": "I knew a guy who sold his landscaping business and kept 3 of his big clients. He would go mow their propertys himself and work 2-3 days a week." }, { "id": "t1_opgns4g", "author": "/u/Valkanaa", "updated": "2026-06-03T05:52:15+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/opgns4g/", "content": "It's not always your choice to retire. I effectively "FIRED" in late 2024 due to tech layoffs.\n I would have rather worked another couple of years and gotten to my plan number but since those layoffs continued I've scaled down.\n Last year was great in the market so no issues at all. This year is a little bit more challenging, at least for my portfolio, and if it continues into 2027 I'll certainly opt for a "barista" job vs selling at a loss or raiding my IRA accounts with 72T.\n I'm still gaining this year (albeit less) and use margin to "float" any additional short term capital I need.\n With ACA this is better than working since increasing income blows up healthcare costs dramatically. If I took a low paying job now and needed to liquidate positions later in the year that would hurt more than it helps." }, { "id": "t1_ophbx6q", "author": "/u/orpheus625", "updated": "2026-06-03T09:16:09+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/ophbx6q/", "content": "Just do your normal job for 1 day a week." }, { "id": "t1_ophg5oy", "author": "/u/trukkija", "updated": "2026-06-03T09:52:07+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/ophg5oy/", "content": "I think Barista FIRE is for people who are incapable of enjoying life without some routine job. If you are not one of those people, I just can't see the benefit in it.\n Honestly, even if you are one of those people, why not just spend your time volunteering at a animal shelter or doing something with a purpose." }, { "id": "t1_op8nss4", "author": "/u/SirAustinMeow", "updated": "2026-06-02T01:59:33+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/op8nss4/", "content": "You could literally barista fire with a job at starbucks. Full benefits at 20 hours per week and it would keep you social." }, { "id": "t1_opaww89", "author": "/u/IndustriousSeahawk26", "updated": "2026-06-02T12:03:39+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tubtv6/barista_fire_seems_overrated/opaww89/", "content": "I started at an entry level job in HS and my early 20s. I crushed it. It was so easy compared to management and executive roles before I FIRED. I want to be social and talk to people and I went into an entry level job for that purpose— guess what? It’s still easy compared to executive roles.\n But I realized the stress is not dealing with people (very easy if you have social skills, which to be real you need in abundance to become a successful manager or executive ) —-the stress of an entry level job is money. If you are barely making bills and rent, and you have to deal with people, you are stressed.\n When your billls are taken care of , and you’re there FOR the people, you love them , and your positive behavior makes the customers more positive, and your overall competence at having been in a much harder career before makes the people satisfied or happy on top of that-it’s a positive or negative feedback loop depending on WHY you are in some entry level , low stress job." } ] }, { "source": "r/Fire hot", "id": "t3_1tvkm77", "title": "Has anyone had success going part time after reaching their number?", "author": "/u/teric233", "updated": "2026-06-03T09:54:50+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tvkm77/has_anyone_had_success_going_part_time_after/", "content": "Or close to their number? I have basically reached my number and even though I don’t want to fully quit yet, I don’t really like my job and I think it would help me tremendously to go down to part time. For context I am a manufacturing engineer and I don’t even get the option to work from home at all, so I feel like if I ask there is a good chance I will just be let go. Does anyone have any advice on how to finesse this properly for best chance of success? Ideally I would like to go down to either 4 or 3 days a week. TIA\n submitted by /u/teric233\n [link] [comments]", "contentHtml": "

Or close to their number? I have basically reached my number and even though I don’t want to fully quit yet, I don’t really like my job and I think it would help me tremendously to go down to part time. For context I am a manufacturing engineer and I don’t even get the option to work from home at all, so I feel like if I ask there is a good chance I will just be let go. Does anyone have any advice on how to finesse this properly for best chance of success? Ideally I would like to go down to either 4 or 3 days a week. TIA

submitted by /u/teric233
[link] [comments]", "comments": [ { "id": "t1_ophhxb0", "author": "/u/OilSub", "updated": "2026-06-03T10:06:08+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tvkm77/has_anyone_had_success_going_part_time_after/ophhxb0/", "content": "It cannot hurt to ask but in the UK you can request part time working and the employer must at least consider it. 3 day week is amazing! Definitly ask!\n You have to decided if you are willing to walk away from the job otherwise or not" } ] }, { "source": "r/Fire hot", "id": "t3_1tu626q", "title": "Markets are up for everyone, don't post about it.", "author": "/u/Bitter-Variation-151", "updated": "2026-06-01T21:15:27+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu626q/markets_are_up_for_everyone_dont_post_about_it/", "content": "Yes, your portfolio is at all times high and you're hitting milestones. But no, you don't need to tell us you hit X amount and feel dead inside or tell us your life story about how you hit X amount.\n Thanks in advance.\n submitted by /u/Bitter-Variation-151\n [link] [comments]", "contentHtml": "

Yes, your portfolio is at all times high and you're hitting milestones. But no, you don't need to tell us you hit X amount and feel dead inside or tell us your life story about how you hit X amount.

Thanks in advance.

submitted by /u/Bitter-Variation-151
[link] [comments]", "comments": [ { "id": "t1_op79i3q", "author": "/u/GambledMyWifeAway", "updated": "2026-06-01T21:19:39+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu626q/markets_are_up_for_everyone_dont_post_about_it/op79i3q/", "content": "I hit 40 million today and don’t know how to feel about it….can I retire? (My expenses are a secret, btw)" }, { "id": "t1_op7b9kl", "author": "/u/cybertruck_", "updated": "2026-06-01T21:28:07+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu626q/markets_are_up_for_everyone_dont_post_about_it/op7b9kl/", "content": "I have a ways to go - hit 20 million yesterday and also not sure how to feel. I'm 26 years old and getting burned out." }, { "id": "t1_op7capg", "author": "/u/f1v3star", "updated": "2026-06-01T21:33:08+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu626q/markets_are_up_for_everyone_dont_post_about_it/op7capg/", "content": "Haven’t entered your prime earning years though, work til you’re 40 and then withdraw 1%/yr" }, { "id": "t1_opalli2", "author": "/u/oalbrecht", "updated": "2026-06-02T10:50:38+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu626q/markets_are_up_for_everyone_dont_post_about_it/opalli2/", "content": "Dude, that’s way too much withdrawal to be truly safe. Better make it -4%. Yes, that’s a minus before the 4." }, { "id": "t1_opbf4ca", "author": "/u/2Nails", "updated": "2026-06-02T13:40:38+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu626q/markets_are_up_for_everyone_dont_post_about_it/opbf4ca/", "content": "guys, guys, I think we're not of /r/fijerk\n but honestly you're doing a great impression x)" }, { "id": "t1_op7sauh", "author": "/u/TurntTaffy", "updated": "2026-06-01T22:56:50+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu626q/markets_are_up_for_everyone_dont_post_about_it/op7sauh/", "content": "Lol" }, { "id": "t1_op82wv7", "author": "/u/Kizzy33333", "updated": "2026-06-01T23:56:08+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu626q/markets_are_up_for_everyone_dont_post_about_it/op82wv7/", "content": "I put my entire 5M savings in Sandisk two years ago. I spend 50K per year. Can I retire? I’m 80." }, { "id": "t1_op83mta", "author": "/u/SouldSoul", "updated": "2026-06-02T00:00:16+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu626q/markets_are_up_for_everyone_dont_post_about_it/op83mta/", "content": "You’re screwed mate. Sell your home and apply at Wendy’s ASAP" }, { "id": "t1_opfb23o", "author": "/u/dsrmpt", "updated": "2026-06-03T00:40:50+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu626q/markets_are_up_for_everyone_dont_post_about_it/opfb23o/", "content": "W-2 wages are for suckers. Go the 1099 route doing handies behind hardies." }, { "id": "t1_op7ggck", "author": "/u/FTFaffer", "updated": "2026-06-01T21:53:52+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu626q/markets_are_up_for_everyone_dont_post_about_it/op7ggck/", "content": "But what about the medical insurance costs???? 20mil can’t possibly enough" }, { "id": "t1_op7scw9", "author": "/u/TurntTaffy", "updated": "2026-06-01T22:57:09+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu626q/markets_are_up_for_everyone_dont_post_about_it/op7scw9/", "content": "I do feel you may need to support kids though" }, { "id": "t1_op7v917", "author": "/u/Wild_Butterscotch482", "updated": "2026-06-01T23:13:03+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu626q/markets_are_up_for_everyone_dont_post_about_it/op7v917/", "content": "I’m a gay guy in my mid 40s with no kids and $20 mil. I feel like I can FIRE, but what if I trip and accidentally get a woman pregnant with triplets that I need to put through college?" }, { "id": "t1_op842pp", "author": "/u/danfirst", "updated": "2026-06-02T00:02:48+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu626q/markets_are_up_for_everyone_dont_post_about_it/op842pp/", "content": "It's easy to slip and do the wrong kind of special hug, it could happen to anyone!" }, { "id": "t1_op8uznt", "author": "/u/-_Edmond_Dantes_-", "updated": "2026-06-02T02:43:33+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu626q/markets_are_up_for_everyone_dont_post_about_it/op8uznt/", "content": "No one told me soaking could get her pregnant" }, { "id": "t1_op92hf0", "author": "/u/passwordistako", "updated": "2026-06-02T03:32:08+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu626q/markets_are_up_for_everyone_dont_post_about_it/op92hf0/", "content": "Depends how good at jumping on the bed your brother is." }, { "id": "t1_opa93sm", "author": "/u/Strazdas1", "updated": "2026-06-02T09:11:43+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu626q/markets_are_up_for_everyone_dont_post_about_it/opa93sm/", "content": "But have you considered you will have a family of 7 in 10 years?" }, { "id": "t1_opajfok", "author": "/u/Spirited_Library_471", "updated": "2026-06-02T10:35:05+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu626q/markets_are_up_for_everyone_dont_post_about_it/opajfok/", "content": "Continue d’utiliser la voie de derrière, jamais entendu que quelqu’un tombait enceinte par ce moyen là" }, { "id": "t1_opay9hk", "author": "/u/bob_pipe_layer", "updated": "2026-06-02T12:11:38+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu626q/markets_are_up_for_everyone_dont_post_about_it/opay9hk/", "content": "I see you've dated at least one catholic." }, { "id": "t1_opb9i8y", "author": "/u/FTFaffer", "updated": "2026-06-02T13:12:42+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu626q/markets_are_up_for_everyone_dont_post_about_it/opb9i8y/", "content": "No sadly the Catholics can no longer be relied upon in this context. Change that to ‘I see you’ve dated at least one Mormon fundamentalist.’" }, { "id": "t1_op801md", "author": "/u/wrldwdeu4ria", "updated": "2026-06-01T23:39:46+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu626q/markets_are_up_for_everyone_dont_post_about_it/op801md/", "content": "You need to work 50 more years to pay for medical insurance please." }, { "id": "t1_op9amer", "author": "/u/Bitter-Variation-151", "updated": "2026-06-02T04:28:17+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu626q/markets_are_up_for_everyone_dont_post_about_it/op9amer/", "content": "Oh man. The 20 something who's burned out is thr worst lol" }, { "id": "t1_opfbmjp", "author": "/u/dsrmpt", "updated": "2026-06-03T00:44:04+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu626q/markets_are_up_for_everyone_dont_post_about_it/opfbmjp/", "content": "I've got clinical depression, can I call that burnout and take an early retirement?\n I actually made full salary replacement level gains YOY this past 12 months! Stonks! I'm ready to retire!" }, { "id": "t1_opa9azr", "author": "/u/Strazdas1", "updated": "2026-06-02T09:13:28+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu626q/markets_are_up_for_everyone_dont_post_about_it/opa9azr/", "content": "If they are something like videogame developer i can believe it. Sleep in the office most days. Catering service is there so you dont waste time having a lunch break." }, { "id": "t1_op7j8oe", "author": "/u/as1126", "updated": "2026-06-01T22:08:10+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu626q/markets_are_up_for_everyone_dont_post_about_it/op7j8oe/", "content": "40 million is only a few good days away." }, { "id": "t1_opapp1z", "author": "/u/Montaigne_6823", "updated": "2026-06-02T11:18:42+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu626q/markets_are_up_for_everyone_dont_post_about_it/opapp1z/", "content": "You're close, maybe grind it out to 21 million and reevaluate." }, { "id": "t1_op7zyc2", "author": "/u/wrldwdeu4ria", "updated": "2026-06-01T23:39:16+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu626q/markets_are_up_for_everyone_dont_post_about_it/op7zyc2/", "content": "I'm not sure how you should feel either." }, { "id": "t1_op862vo", "author": "/u/AppalachianRomanov", "updated": "2026-06-02T00:14:26+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu626q/markets_are_up_for_everyone_dont_post_about_it/op862vo/", "content": "I read that dash as you hitting negative 20 million 🤣😩" }, { "id": "t1_op7gp0y", "author": "/u/Topaz_11", "updated": "2026-06-01T21:55:04+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu626q/markets_are_up_for_everyone_dont_post_about_it/op7gp0y/", "content": "My portfolio moved 40M today and I'm still living with my parents to save some money.... want to retire in 30 years but looks uncertain." }, { "id": "t1_opa9fzt", "author": "/u/Strazdas1", "updated": "2026-06-02T09:14:41+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu626q/markets_are_up_for_everyone_dont_post_about_it/opa9fzt/", "content": "But what if aliens land tomorrow and vaporize the stock market?" }, { "id": "t1_opc4ix0", "author": "/u/mydknyght79", "updated": "2026-06-02T15:37:20+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu626q/markets_are_up_for_everyone_dont_post_about_it/opc4ix0/", "content": "How are you going to pay for healthcare? Nobody thinks about that!!!" }, { "id": "t1_opc9sjt", "author": "/u/Topaz_11", "updated": "2026-06-02T16:00:20+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu626q/markets_are_up_for_everyone_dont_post_about_it/opc9sjt/", "content": "My plan is to wait for a dip and then buy United healthcare outright 😄" }, { "id": "t1_op7x8pp", "author": "/u/Squatch11", "updated": "2026-06-01T23:24:02+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu626q/markets_are_up_for_everyone_dont_post_about_it/op7x8pp/", "content": "I also hit $40 million today. And honestly, anyone could do it. I'm only 28 years old, but I worked hard for about 7 years while saving as much as I could. I also inherited $39.5 million from my parents. Not sure what everyone finds so hard about FIRE." }, { "id": "t1_op809kv", "author": "/u/wrldwdeu4ria", "updated": "2026-06-01T23:41:01+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu626q/markets_are_up_for_everyone_dont_post_about_it/op809kv/", "content": "I'm sure you'll feel burned out soon." }, { "id": "t1_op7cylk", "author": "/u/db11242", "updated": "2026-06-01T21:36:26+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu626q/markets_are_up_for_everyone_dont_post_about_it/op7cylk/", "content": "I don’t need to know your expenses, but I do need to know what your cars and precious moments collections are worth. /s" }, { "id": "t1_opb6ayj", "author": "/u/GambledMyWifeAway", "updated": "2026-06-02T12:56:09+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu626q/markets_are_up_for_everyone_dont_post_about_it/opb6ayj/", "content": "Funny thing, my wife and I traveled a good distance to go to an authentic italian restaurant that was supposed to be amazing. When we got there it just happened to be connected to a precious moments museum that was absolutely packed. lol" }, { "id": "t1_opb9iwf", "author": "/u/db11242", "updated": "2026-06-02T13:12:48+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu626q/markets_are_up_for_everyone_dont_post_about_it/opb9iwf/", "content": "Awesome! :-)" }, { "id": "t1_op7hzot", "author": "/u/Just_Candle_315", "updated": "2026-06-01T22:01:41+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu626q/markets_are_up_for_everyone_dont_post_about_it/op7hzot/", "content": "Hey y'all I have a $800k HSA generated from annual $4k contributions also I'm 17...." }, { "id": "t1_opeexqn", "author": "/u/Firefiresoon", "updated": "2026-06-02T21:47:18+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu626q/markets_are_up_for_everyone_dont_post_about_it/opeexqn/", "content": "Ah, the inherit-my-HSA-from-past-life trick!" }, { "id": "t1_op7k4lc", "author": "/u/warlizardfanboy", "updated": "2026-06-01T22:12:48+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu626q/markets_are_up_for_everyone_dont_post_about_it/op7k4lc/", "content": "I love the posts with excruciating detail on say, the recast loan on their second property and makeup of the HHI this year with huge pieces of information missing like ballpark spend rate." }, { "id": "t1_op7ntyp", "author": "/u/acemedic", "updated": "2026-06-01T22:32:35+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu626q/markets_are_up_for_everyone_dont_post_about_it/op7ntyp/", "content": "Or the folks at 32 who fire’d with 1.1 million. Good luck getting that to stretch until you’re 75." }, { "id": "t1_op9es6y", "author": "/u/blorg", "updated": "2026-06-02T04:58:58+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu626q/markets_are_up_for_everyone_dont_post_about_it/op9es6y/", "content": "It entirely depends on your expenses, spend rate, and sequence of returns in the years immediately after retirement.\n If there isn't a crash immediately after retirement, even 4% will last forever. Even if you retired in 1926, 1927, 1928- it lasts forever, not just 30 years. It's only if you retired in 1929, with the crash immediately after, it runs out eventually (it still lasts 30 years).\n Also, it's a rule of thumb for how much you need, not a contract you are locked into. If you have any flexibility, and can cut back a bit if the market does crash, you will still be fine. It's only when you retire right before a crash this is an issue.\n Even if you want total security, you don't need much more to go from 30 years (Trinity study) to 50, 70 years or even forever. You only need to lower your SWR slightly, to around 3.25%, or in other words, you only need 20% more to go from 30 years to forever. Money compounds, that's how this works in the first place. In most cases you don't "stretch" it, you end up with many multiples of what you started with, and the longer you have the more you end up with. This is how compounding works.\n There are tools to check this, look at backtests and Monte Carlo simulators on sites like testfol.io or Portfolio Visualizer.\n Here's the full 43 years with 100% stocks\n This is starting with $300k (inflation adjusted $1m today) and withdrawing 4%, increased each year with inflation. You end up with $27m today as a 75 year old.\n It works with 60/40 bonds as well, it doesn't have data going back to 1983, it starts in 1986.\n Portfolio Visualiser Monte Carlo Simulation for 45 years\n I don't get in a FIRE sub how people don't understand this, it's foundational." }, { "id": "t1_opa7857", "author": "/u/Effective_Tackle_195", "updated": "2026-06-02T08:55:18+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu626q/markets_are_up_for_everyone_dont_post_about_it/opa7857/", "content": "Hi there! I fire'd at 32 with 1M. Now I'm 54 and have 3M. Pretty sure I will make it till 75" }, { "id": "t1_opbfaxj", "author": "/u/acemedic", "updated": "2026-06-02T13:41:32+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu626q/markets_are_up_for_everyone_dont_post_about_it/opbfaxj/", "content": "For you to do the same thing today, just accounting for inflation, you’d need $1.9M." }, { "id": "t1_opbcwlg", "author": "/u/Vicuna00", "updated": "2026-06-02T13:29:39+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu626q/markets_are_up_for_everyone_dont_post_about_it/opbcwlg/", "content": "would love to hear your life story in a separate thread some day!" }, { "id": "t1_opa9rsy", "author": "/u/Strazdas1", "updated": "2026-06-02T09:17:28+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu626q/markets_are_up_for_everyone_dont_post_about_it/opa9rsy/", "content": "If i had 1.1 mil id retire today. Thats 44k at 4% rule and absolutely fine if you are out of HCOL areas." }, { "id": "t1_opbfje1", "author": "/u/acemedic", "updated": "2026-06-02T13:42:41+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu626q/markets_are_up_for_everyone_dont_post_about_it/opbfje1/", "content": "LCOL area wouldn’t be bad, but 1 kid and that equation goes sideways." }, { "id": "t1_opbmh9b", "author": "/u/Strazdas1", "updated": "2026-06-02T14:16:03+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu626q/markets_are_up_for_everyone_dont_post_about_it/opbmh9b/", "content": "Well by the time people FIRE they usually have made up their mind on whether or not they want children." }, { "id": "t1_opbtoic", "author": "/u/acemedic", "updated": "2026-06-02T14:49:09+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu626q/markets_are_up_for_everyone_dont_post_about_it/opbtoic/", "content": "I’m seeing the trend towards late 30’s to have kids, but people talking about FIRE’ing in their early 30’s. A lot can change in a few years…" }, { "id": "t1_opbvjk3", "author": "/u/Strazdas1", "updated": "2026-06-02T14:57:34+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu626q/markets_are_up_for_everyone_dont_post_about_it/opbvjk3/", "content": "The median age to have first child in US is 24.5 years. People having them in late 30s are the exception. And most people here who fired did so in late 40s early 50s." }, { "id": "t1_opc6fnq", "author": "/u/acemedic", "updated": "2026-06-02T15:45:44+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu626q/markets_are_up_for_everyone_dont_post_about_it/opc6fnq/", "content": "National Center for Health Statistics puts the mean at 27.5 in 2023, compared to 21.4 in 1970. That’s a strong shift if you ask me. Now you have people talking about early 30’s FIRE…" }, { "id": "t1_opatjkx", "author": "/u/Numerous-Bet-4847", "updated": "2026-06-02T11:43:25+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu626q/markets_are_up_for_everyone_dont_post_about_it/opatjkx/", "content": "It could last that long, the problem is people who FIRE that young don't understand how their life priorities change over time.\n Especially when you hit 40.\n Your expenses at 32 are going to look drastically different at 42 or 52 when you decide life's too short to live on $100k a year." }, { "id": "t1_opb5jt9", "author": "/u/blorg", "updated": "2026-06-02T12:52:10+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu626q/markets_are_up_for_everyone_dont_post_about_it/opb5jt9/", "content": "when you decide life's too short to live on $100k a year\n Which is well above the median income... you can have that preference yourself of course but the original FIRE idea was about minimalism and living with less... the idea you couldn't be content with even $100k a year without having to work is just nuts. There is a /r/fatFIRE sub for this stuff.\n I'm probably older than you." }, { "id": "t1_op8jb33", "author": "/u/K_A_irony", "updated": "2026-06-02T01:32:32+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu626q/markets_are_up_for_everyone_dont_post_about_it/op8jb33/", "content": "I got downvoted into oblivion when someone who spends 80K a year wanted to retire on just under 2M at 32. I was like.. I am not sure at that spend rate with the added cost of insurance is tenable for that long." }, { "id": "t1_op9f5yl", "author": "/u/blorg", "updated": "2026-06-02T05:01:50+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu626q/markets_are_up_for_everyone_dont_post_about_it/op9f5yl/", "content": "2m does support a spend rate of $80k/year (rising each year by inflation) at 4% SWR.\n If they don't have a bad market crash immediately after retirement, that will actually work.\n If they do have a bad market crash and are able to cut their spending for a few years, it will also actually work.\n In the median case if they keep that up they'd end up with $69m (nice) in 50 years ($18m inflation-adjusted)." }, { "id": "t1_op7liov", "author": "/u/GambledMyWifeAway", "updated": "2026-06-01T22:20:11+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu626q/markets_are_up_for_everyone_dont_post_about_it/op7liov/", "content": "Wild how it literally happens every single day on here. Lol" }, { "id": "t1_opapymr", "author": "/u/Montaigne_6823", "updated": "2026-06-02T11:20:29+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu626q/markets_are_up_for_everyone_dont_post_about_it/opapymr/", "content": "Also have a spouse of 10 years with separate finances. No mention of career or savings for them. They're on their own. We go dutch on date night." }, { "id": "t1_op7b92t", "author": "/u/sloth_333", "updated": "2026-06-01T21:28:03+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu626q/markets_are_up_for_everyone_dont_post_about_it/op7b92t/", "content": "I’ll let you know, but first wire me 20 million, thanks" }, { "id": "t1_opa9mn1", "author": "/u/Strazdas1", "updated": "2026-06-02T09:16:15+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu626q/markets_are_up_for_everyone_dont_post_about_it/opa9mn1/", "content": "Dont listen to him, i can consult you better for 19 million." }, { "id": "t1_op7fype", "author": "/u/SlightDogleg", "updated": "2026-06-01T21:51:24+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu626q/markets_are_up_for_everyone_dont_post_about_it/op7fype/", "content": "Work one more year just in case markets correct by 20%" }, { "id": "t1_op7k3q3", "author": "/u/Psynaut", "updated": "2026-06-01T22:12:41+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu626q/markets_are_up_for_everyone_dont_post_about_it/op7k3q3/", "content": "HCOL or MCOL? If HCOL, you should probably work a few more years or at least until $100 million. Health care is so expensive." }, { "id": "t1_op7k14u", "author": "/u/Mabbernathy", "updated": "2026-06-01T22:12:18+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu626q/markets_are_up_for_everyone_dont_post_about_it/op7k14u/", "content": "You might be able to start dipping out early on Fridays" }, { "id": "t1_op7jc89", "author": "/u/plawwell", "updated": "2026-06-01T22:08:40+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu626q/markets_are_up_for_everyone_dont_post_about_it/op7jc89/", "content": "What age are you? What is the split of pre-tax/Roth for the 40m? Please keep it secret though." }, { "id": "t1_op7lr77", "author": "/u/Particular-Break-205", "updated": "2026-06-01T22:21:27+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu626q/markets_are_up_for_everyone_dont_post_about_it/op7lr77/", "content": "No - healthcare is probably going to be $39M" }, { "id": "t1_op7qu7h", "author": "/u/GodlessAndChill", "updated": "2026-06-01T22:48:52+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu626q/markets_are_up_for_everyone_dont_post_about_it/op7qu7h/", "content": "That is not even enough to live off of for a year. Double it before you even START thinking about retiring." }, { "id": "t1_op838lb", "author": "/u/That-SoCal-Guy", "updated": "2026-06-01T23:58:00+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu626q/markets_are_up_for_everyone_dont_post_about_it/op838lb/", "content": "And you must be 32 years old." }, { "id": "t1_op8ispn", "author": "/u/K_A_irony", "updated": "2026-06-02T01:29:27+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu626q/markets_are_up_for_everyone_dont_post_about_it/op8ispn/", "content": "Yes the number of posts that say I have X can I retire with NO information on their spend are crazy." }, { "id": "t1_op9bmqr", "author": "/u/Fickle_Window3615", "updated": "2026-06-02T04:35:37+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu626q/markets_are_up_for_everyone_dont_post_about_it/op9bmqr/", "content": "I need more info.... m or f?" }, { "id": "t1_op9h17x", "author": "/u/SolomonGrumpy", "updated": "2026-06-02T05:16:14+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu626q/markets_are_up_for_everyone_dont_post_about_it/op9h17x/", "content": ""I don't have anyone else to tell."" }, { "id": "t1_op9vkwv", "author": "/u/ThirstyWolfSpider", "updated": "2026-06-02T07:14:03+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu626q/markets_are_up_for_everyone_dont_post_about_it/op9vkwv/", "content": "That's rough, but for a mere 1%pa advisory fee I suppose I could give you some non-fiduciary advice on that." }, { "id": "t1_opa8zxa", "author": "/u/Strazdas1", "updated": "2026-06-02T09:10:48+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu626q/markets_are_up_for_everyone_dont_post_about_it/opa8zxa/", "content": ""My passive income is 140k but feels like poverty"" }, { "id": "t1_opbaair", "author": "/u/zoom1132", "updated": "2026-06-02T13:16:41+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu626q/markets_are_up_for_everyone_dont_post_about_it/opbaair/", "content": ""I don't have anyone in my personal life I can tell"" }, { "id": "t1_opbcmlr", "author": "/u/Vicuna00", "updated": "2026-06-02T13:28:17+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu626q/markets_are_up_for_everyone_dont_post_about_it/opbcmlr/", "content": "lol" }, { "id": "t1_opbryhm", "author": "/u/Previous_Guitar5027", "updated": "2026-06-02T14:41:19+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu626q/markets_are_up_for_everyone_dont_post_about_it/opbryhm/", "content": "One more year" }, { "id": "t1_op7azam", "author": "/u/temerairevm", "updated": "2026-06-01T21:26:44+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu626q/markets_are_up_for_everyone_dont_post_about_it/op7azam/", "content": "lol I recommend spending $200 of that money on a therapy session to figure that out." }, { "id": "t1_op7calk", "author": "", "updated": "2026-06-01T21:33:07+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu626q/markets_are_up_for_everyone_dont_post_about_it/op7calk/", "content": "[deleted]" }, { "id": "t1_op7cr7a", "author": "/u/Desperate_Stretch855", "updated": "2026-06-01T21:35:24+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu626q/markets_are_up_for_everyone_dont_post_about_it/op7cr7a/", "content": ".... does someone else want to handle this one for me?" }, { "id": "t1_op7dvch", "author": "/u/Inner-Floor-5827", "updated": "2026-06-01T21:40:58+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu626q/markets_are_up_for_everyone_dont_post_about_it/op7dvch/", "content": "Too burnt out for that. Maybe the next person?....." }, { "id": "t1_op7do5j", "author": "/u/NonrationalWife", "updated": "2026-06-01T21:39:58+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu626q/markets_are_up_for_everyone_dont_post_about_it/op7do5j/", "content": "bro" }, { "id": "t1_op7eqkp", "author": "/u/yuffie12", "updated": "2026-06-01T21:45:16+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu626q/markets_are_up_for_everyone_dont_post_about_it/op7eqkp/", "content": "Just wait until the market drops and people panic." }, { "id": "t1_op7iykw", "author": "/u/limbomaniac", "updated": "2026-06-01T22:06:41+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu626q/markets_are_up_for_everyone_dont_post_about_it/op7iykw/", "content": ""This time it's different!"" }, { "id": "t1_op7lo10", "author": "", "updated": "2026-06-01T22:20:59+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu626q/markets_are_up_for_everyone_dont_post_about_it/op7lo10/", "content": "[deleted]" }, { "id": "t1_op8vjg7", "author": "/u/-_Edmond_Dantes_-", "updated": "2026-06-02T02:46:59+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu626q/markets_are_up_for_everyone_dont_post_about_it/op8vjg7/", "content": "“I’m going to wait until the market crashes to buy” …because it wont affect me too" }, { "id": "t1_op8wdpr", "author": "/u/Gringuin007", "updated": "2026-06-02T02:52:15+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu626q/markets_are_up_for_everyone_dont_post_about_it/op8wdpr/", "content": "I read it took 13 years for nasdaq to recover from dot com crash" }, { "id": "t1_opa8qba", "author": "/u/Strazdas1", "updated": "2026-06-02T09:08:29+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu626q/markets_are_up_for_everyone_dont_post_about_it/opa8qba/", "content": "is this a misspelling of 3 years?" }, { "id": "t1_opd5spt", "author": "/u/terjon", "updated": "2026-06-02T18:19:21+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu626q/markets_are_up_for_everyone_dont_post_about_it/opd5spt/", "content": "No, it was over 4500 in the year 2000, it didn't get to that number again until 2014." }, { "id": "t1_ope4hvy", "author": "/u/Gringuin007", "updated": "2026-06-02T20:56:40+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu626q/markets_are_up_for_everyone_dont_post_about_it/ope4hvy/", "content": "Great Recession was 3 or 4 years to recover. But it was with $1.5T TARP money. Housing was a lot longer - I think bottom was 2013 or 2014." }, { "id": "t1_ope4ukf", "author": "/u/Gringuin007", "updated": "2026-06-02T20:58:18+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu626q/markets_are_up_for_everyone_dont_post_about_it/ope4ukf/", "content": "Great Recession was 3 or 4 years to recover. But it was with $1.5T TARP money. Housing was a lot longer - I think bottom was 2013 or 2014." }, { "id": "t1_opa8owv", "author": "/u/Strazdas1", "updated": "2026-06-02T09:08:07+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu626q/markets_are_up_for_everyone_dont_post_about_it/opa8owv/", "content": "It worked for me by accident. when market dropped big last time i had just gotten the yearly bonus and put it all in right on time :)" }, { "id": "t1_opc0ioc", "author": "/u/joxxer42", "updated": "2026-06-02T15:19:50+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu626q/markets_are_up_for_everyone_dont_post_about_it/opc0ioc/", "content": "https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Po4adxJxqZk" }, { "id": "t1_opdqpw8", "author": "/u/-_Edmond_Dantes_-", "updated": "2026-06-02T19:53:18+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu626q/markets_are_up_for_everyone_dont_post_about_it/opdqpw8/", "content": "Just transferred my 401k to an investor i met at my Method One investment seminar." }, { "id": "t1_op8euk0", "author": "/u/ept_engr", "updated": "2026-06-02T01:05:57+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu626q/markets_are_up_for_everyone_dont_post_about_it/op8euk0/", "content": ""We're definitely heading into a deep recession"" }, { "id": "t1_opfjepa", "author": "/u/Elite163", "updated": "2026-06-03T01:28:06+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu626q/markets_are_up_for_everyone_dont_post_about_it/opfjepa/", "content": "They said that since 2020" }, { "id": "t1_opglyc0", "author": "/u/Void_Break", "updated": "2026-06-03T05:38:10+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu626q/markets_are_up_for_everyone_dont_post_about_it/opglyc0/", "content": "Being said every time" }, { "id": "t1_op9b3ih", "author": "/u/InedibleApplePi", "updated": "2026-06-02T04:31:45+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu626q/markets_are_up_for_everyone_dont_post_about_it/op9b3ih/", "content": "This happens every time we have 5 down days in a row. We'll be down 5% off all time highs and the doom and gloom posts will come spring up like weeds." }, { "id": "t1_op9b828", "author": "/u/CaliHusker83", "updated": "2026-06-02T04:32:39+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu626q/markets_are_up_for_everyone_dont_post_about_it/op9b828/", "content": "That’s been the sentiment I’ve heard for the last five years.\n I wonder how they’re feeling after going to CD’s." }, { "id": "t1_opgc8x2", "author": "/u/Aloh4mora", "updated": "2026-06-03T04:26:38+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu626q/markets_are_up_for_everyone_dont_post_about_it/opgc8x2/", "content": "One of my husband's coworkers pulled all his money out of the stock market after Obama won.\n He lost out on so many gains." }, { "id": "t1_opaplcb", "author": "/u/Montaigne_6823", "updated": "2026-06-02T11:18:00+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu626q/markets_are_up_for_everyone_dont_post_about_it/opaplcb/", "content": "They won't feel dead inside then! That will get the heart racing!" }, { "id": "t1_opapuk1", "author": "/u/yuffie12", "updated": "2026-06-02T11:19:43+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu626q/markets_are_up_for_everyone_dont_post_about_it/opapuk1/", "content": "Haha. For sure." }, { "id": "t1_opgzrm4", "author": "/u/Ok-Host2005", "updated": "2026-06-03T07:29:27+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu626q/markets_are_up_for_everyone_dont_post_about_it/opgzrm4/", "content": "The thing to remember is that it’s not real. It looks like money but it isn’t. Even money isn’t real so it’s twice not real. Paper ownership of something priced in paper money. 😂" }, { "id": "t1_opbo2p0", "author": "/u/Live_Sand_1294", "updated": "2026-06-02T14:23:26+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu626q/markets_are_up_for_everyone_dont_post_about_it/opbo2p0/", "content": "Guys, what's wrong. I'm losing money." }, { "id": "t1_opf2pvz", "author": "/u/DuaLipasTrophyHsband", "updated": "2026-06-02T23:53:46+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu626q/markets_are_up_for_everyone_dont_post_about_it/opf2pvz/", "content": "‘We’ve been down 4 days in a row and I’m dead inside’" }, { "id": "t1_op7a9gj", "author": "/u/Inlacou", "updated": "2026-06-01T21:23:17+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu626q/markets_are_up_for_everyone_dont_post_about_it/op7a9gj/", "content": "My portfolio got to 5 million. My house is paid and I have three condos which cover 95% of my expenses. My monthly expenses are a bunch of peanuts and a single pistachio.\n Can I retire?\n /s" }, { "id": "t1_op7bbsk", "author": "/u/Mysterious-Ad-6211", "updated": "2026-06-01T21:28:25+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu626q/markets_are_up_for_everyone_dont_post_about_it/op7bbsk/", "content": "What? Are you nuts?" }, { "id": "t1_op7v400", "author": "/u/calvintiger", "updated": "2026-06-01T23:12:17+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu626q/markets_are_up_for_everyone_dont_post_about_it/op7v400/", "content": "Makes sense to me. Their chances of success are only 99.95%, it’s probably best to keep working a few years until they get to 99.99%." }, { "id": "t1_op7w9nf", "author": "/u/Ancient-Swordfish292", "updated": "2026-06-01T23:18:41+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu626q/markets_are_up_for_everyone_dont_post_about_it/op7w9nf/", "content": "They're proportionally more legumes than nuts." }, { "id": "t1_opalq29", "author": "/u/oalbrecht", "updated": "2026-06-02T10:51:31+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu626q/markets_are_up_for_everyone_dont_post_about_it/opalq29/", "content": "What, are you legumes????" }, { "id": "t1_op7dlsl", "author": "/u/NonrationalWife", "updated": "2026-06-01T21:39:39+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu626q/markets_are_up_for_everyone_dont_post_about_it/op7dlsl/", "content": "and you haven't considered reallocating to cashews?! bro you're cooked" }, { "id": "t1_op7h0ys", "author": "/u/SnooMacaroons6429", "updated": "2026-06-01T21:56:46+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu626q/markets_are_up_for_everyone_dont_post_about_it/op7h0ys/", "content": "You mean $CASHEW, the hottest new crypto that's definitely not gonna do a rug pull, the creator swears he's in it for the greater good." }, { "id": "t1_op7l3xi", "author": "/u/NonrationalWife", "updated": "2026-06-01T22:18:00+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu626q/markets_are_up_for_everyone_dont_post_about_it/op7l3xi/", "content": "I'm the creator and I can confirm we're going to the moon" }, { "id": "t1_op8mfdd", "author": "/u/ballsack-vinaigrette", "updated": "2026-06-02T01:51:18+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu626q/markets_are_up_for_everyone_dont_post_about_it/op8mfdd/", "content": "to the moon\n One of these days!" }, { "id": "t1_op8olf0", "author": "/u/NonrationalWife", "updated": "2026-06-02T02:04:24+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu626q/markets_are_up_for_everyone_dont_post_about_it/op8olf0/", "content": "See? Ballsack vinaigrette has faith!" }, { "id": "t1_opa8frx", "author": "/u/slowdownlambs", "updated": "2026-06-02T09:05:52+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu626q/markets_are_up_for_everyone_dont_post_about_it/opa8frx/", "content": "Nahhh it's all about the dividend investments bro. Permanent income." }, { "id": "t1_op7exeb", "author": "/u/howardbagel", "updated": "2026-06-01T21:46:13+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu626q/markets_are_up_for_everyone_dont_post_about_it/op7exeb/", "content": "big cashew here" }, { "id": "t1_op7epze", "author": "/u/Rottnrobbie", "updated": "2026-06-01T21:45:12+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu626q/markets_are_up_for_everyone_dont_post_about_it/op7epze/", "content": "No way, that pistachio habit will drain everything." }, { "id": "t1_op7griv", "author": "/u/Number127", "updated": "2026-06-01T21:55:25+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu626q/markets_are_up_for_everyone_dont_post_about_it/op7griv/", "content": "In a nutshell, yes." }, { "id": "t1_op7bf7n", "author": "/u/sloth_333", "updated": "2026-06-01T21:28:52+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu626q/markets_are_up_for_everyone_dont_post_about_it/op7bf7n/", "content": "Only if you eat less peanuts" }, { "id": "t1_op7lz6k", "author": "/u/cfi-2025", "updated": "2026-06-01T22:22:37+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu626q/markets_are_up_for_everyone_dont_post_about_it/op7lz6k/", "content": "You might be content with one pistachio a month now, sure, but 10 years from now? 20? Needs and desires change over time." }, { "id": "t1_op7fjk2", "author": "/u/Theburritolyfe", "updated": "2026-06-01T21:49:17+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu626q/markets_are_up_for_everyone_dont_post_about_it/op7fjk2/", "content": "Hell no. You need to diversify. Cashews and almonds at the very least. I personally get a little risky and include pecans. Brazil nuts are popular but have a currency risk I'm not willing to take." }, { "id": "t1_op7en2p", "author": "/u/Murky-Gate7795", "updated": "2026-06-01T21:44:48+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu626q/markets_are_up_for_everyone_dont_post_about_it/op7en2p/", "content": "This is hilarious and would be a nice post over in r/fijerk" }, { "id": "t1_op7f1c7", "author": "/u/howardbagel", "updated": "2026-06-01T21:46:45+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu626q/markets_are_up_for_everyone_dont_post_about_it/op7f1c7/", "content": "remember when pistachios were dyed red?" }, { "id": "t1_op7h6rq", "author": "/u/Alternative-Pay9735", "updated": "2026-06-01T21:57:33+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu626q/markets_are_up_for_everyone_dont_post_about_it/op7h6rq/", "content": "Well pistachios are expensive...." }, { "id": "t1_op79try", "author": "/u/svhelloworld", "updated": "2026-06-01T21:21:12+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu626q/markets_are_up_for_everyone_dont_post_about_it/op79try/", "content": "Those milestones are big deals to the person posting. Sometimes those milestones are life changing. It costs you nothing to skip past those posts. Let people celebrate their progress." }, { "id": "t1_op7auuy", "author": "/u/salarymansinferno", "updated": "2026-06-01T21:26:08+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu626q/markets_are_up_for_everyone_dont_post_about_it/op7auuy/", "content": "i agree with you in a normal context of general milestone posts, but it’s constant complaining posts of “i feel nothing” for the past ~2 months.\n can they just do a little bit of introspection and think about gratitude and internal motivations instead of complaining here over and over again…" }, { "id": "t1_op7czos", "author": "/u/Smash55", "updated": "2026-06-01T21:36:35+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu626q/markets_are_up_for_everyone_dont_post_about_it/op7czos/", "content": "The whole I feel nothing thing is a total lie, they obviously feel proud and secure enough to wanna talk about it, even if the only place they can talk about is reddit. Now their loneliness is a different issue" }, { "id": "t1_op7xglo", "author": "/u/QuesoChef", "updated": "2026-06-01T23:25:15+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu626q/markets_are_up_for_everyone_dont_post_about_it/op7xglo/", "content": "I agree. I think they’re too insecure to say, “I’m excited, celebrate with me!” So they say they feel nothing so people will celebrate with them.\n I thought $1MM would feel different than it did. I was sooooooo elated at $100K. A number I couldn’t fathom when I started saving. $1MM wasn’t the same overwhelm, but I also am more mature, and knew it would go up and down before being firmly $1MM (a thing I didn’t worry about at $100K). But it was still a thrill. Still a number I couldn’t fathom. It showed sacrifice and consistency and I loved the feeling." }, { "id": "t1_opc46ni", "author": "/u/RegisteredJustToSay", "updated": "2026-06-02T15:35:50+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu626q/markets_are_up_for_everyone_dont_post_about_it/opc46ni/", "content": "Yeah, I feel exactly the same. The 100K was evidence the proof of concept was working and I could do it and a real 'hell yeah' moment, the 1MM felt more like a firm handshake with myself that I'm still on track and it's still working. A happy occasion? Sure, but it didn't change much on its own. Another day of saving and making good financial decisions ahead of me." }, { "id": "t1_opca48z", "author": "/u/QuesoChef", "updated": "2026-06-02T16:01:45+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu626q/markets_are_up_for_everyone_dont_post_about_it/opca48z/", "content": "And there had been eight more $100K moments in the meantime. It’s very satisfying. But so was $614K and $973K.\n Sometimes I think the day before $1MM was more exiting. $100K was an envelope open moment for me. But now I check online all the time and see what the market is doing a particular day. So knowing I’d probably hit $1MM the next day was more exciting than the realization the next day.\n Anyway, still exciting. And it still feels like,”How’d I do this making a fairly average income?” By that I mean a fairly average professional path, which includes promotions to senior and manager roles" }, { "id": "t1_op7dzww", "author": "/u/eclipsadesoare", "updated": "2026-06-01T21:41:37+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu626q/markets_are_up_for_everyone_dont_post_about_it/op7dzww/", "content": "I agree. How self absorbed do you have to be to post something like that and not realize there are people under constant stress unable to make enough to pay for their bills much less invest. But you feel nothing. Well give it to the less fortunate and see if you feel something." }, { "id": "t1_op7dd90", "author": "/u/Pariell", "updated": "2026-06-01T21:38:28+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu626q/markets_are_up_for_everyone_dont_post_about_it/op7dd90/", "content": "When I hit my milestone (soon I hope) I'm going to be elated. I'll post myself partying with champagne and fireworks." }, { "id": "t1_op7qie9", "author": "/u/Alarming-Mix3809", "updated": "2026-06-01T22:47:05+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu626q/markets_are_up_for_everyone_dont_post_about_it/op7qie9/", "content": "Do it. I’ll reply and say congratulations." }, { "id": "t1_op7uf8m", "author": "/u/Hate_Leg_Day", "updated": "2026-06-01T23:08:32+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu626q/markets_are_up_for_everyone_dont_post_about_it/op7uf8m/", "content": "It's also a straight up lie. If you truly felt nothing, you wouldn't make the effort to post about it online." }, { "id": "t1_op7h4a8", "author": "/u/hadee75", "updated": "2026-06-01T21:57:13+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu626q/markets_are_up_for_everyone_dont_post_about_it/op7h4a8/", "content": "There are as many I feel nothing posts as there are I am so elated posts. Just skip the ones you don’t wanna see." }, { "id": "t1_op7dftm", "author": "/u/Ok_Distance5305", "updated": "2026-06-01T21:38:49+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu626q/markets_are_up_for_everyone_dont_post_about_it/op7dftm/", "content": "I think there should be a weekly milestone thread as a compromise" }, { "id": "t1_op7wh0a", "author": "/u/QuesoChef", "updated": "2026-06-01T23:19:49+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu626q/markets_are_up_for_everyone_dont_post_about_it/op7wh0a/", "content": "Nah, don’t let one person run the sub. The replies mainly seems to like them, and it’s easy to scroll past if you don’t." }, { "id": "t1_op7s7xn", "author": "/u/makesufeelgood", "updated": "2026-06-01T22:56:25+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu626q/markets_are_up_for_everyone_dont_post_about_it/op7s7xn/", "content": "The milestone posts are annoying because rarely are people on this subreddit doing the analysis required to accurately place those milestones in the appropriate context. Everything is off 'vibes' or extremely rough back of the napkin math.\n Cool that you hit $1m. I have no idea how close that puts you to being financially independent and neither do you." }, { "id": "t1_op7kfyo", "author": "/u/IHadTacosYesterday", "updated": "2026-06-01T22:14:28+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu626q/markets_are_up_for_everyone_dont_post_about_it/op7kfyo/", "content": "My eyeballs feel tremendous pain" }, { "id": "t1_op7qdpo", "author": "/u/Alarming-Mix3809", "updated": "2026-06-01T22:46:23+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu626q/markets_are_up_for_everyone_dont_post_about_it/op7qdpo/", "content": "Amen" }, { "id": "t1_op7bcnm", "author": "/u/sloth_333", "updated": "2026-06-01T21:28:32+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu626q/markets_are_up_for_everyone_dont_post_about_it/op7bcnm/", "content": "I am about to surpass 1M portfolio and NW (with my wife) and I will not be posting about it lol" }, { "id": "t1_op7brgr", "author": "/u/svhelloworld", "updated": "2026-06-01T21:30:32+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu626q/markets_are_up_for_everyone_dont_post_about_it/op7brgr/", "content": "I think you just did." }, { "id": "t1_op7bydg", "author": "/u/AlwaysSaturday12", "updated": "2026-06-01T21:31:28+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu626q/markets_are_up_for_everyone_dont_post_about_it/op7bydg/", "content": "Thanks for not letting us know. I also recently passed 600k which i also won't let you know." }, { "id": "t1_op7cl0a", "author": "/u/sloth_333", "updated": "2026-06-01T21:34:33+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu626q/markets_are_up_for_everyone_dont_post_about_it/op7cl0a/", "content": "Let me not know when you get to 700k! Thanks" }, { "id": "t1_op7d992", "author": "/u/AlwaysSaturday12", "updated": "2026-06-01T21:37:55+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu626q/markets_are_up_for_everyone_dont_post_about_it/op7d992/", "content": "Will not do! Thanks for not caring!" }, { "id": "t1_op7bseh", "author": "/u/Eltex", "updated": "2026-06-01T21:30:40+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu626q/markets_are_up_for_everyone_dont_post_about_it/op7bseh/", "content": "Seems like you are internalizing your emotions. I recommend perhaps making a post about how you feel and maybe this can help resolve the long term issues you are facing." }, { "id": "t1_op7civt", "author": "/u/sloth_333", "updated": "2026-06-01T21:34:15+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu626q/markets_are_up_for_everyone_dont_post_about_it/op7civt/", "content": "I feel great!" }, { "id": "t1_op7wqke", "author": "/u/QuesoChef", "updated": "2026-06-01T23:21:16+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu626q/markets_are_up_for_everyone_dont_post_about_it/op7wqke/", "content": "It sounds like you have someone to celebrate with. Not everyone does. I haven’t ever submitted a post to this sub, but I like the content here, even if id never post about it. (Though in this case, you did. But, semantics.)" }, { "id": "t1_op79kfh", "author": "/u/justafella32", "updated": "2026-06-01T21:19:58+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu626q/markets_are_up_for_everyone_dont_post_about_it/op79kfh/", "content": "When will someone post the “dead inside” or “alive inside” poll?" }, { "id": "t1_op7ayg0", "author": "/u/OkMarsupial", "updated": "2026-06-01T21:26:37+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu626q/markets_are_up_for_everyone_dont_post_about_it/op7ayg0/", "content": "DON'T DEAD OPEN INSIDE" }, { "id": "t1_op92xj2", "author": "/u/bhillis99", "updated": "2026-06-02T03:35:08+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu626q/markets_are_up_for_everyone_dont_post_about_it/op92xj2/", "content": "some wont get this" }, { "id": "t1_opalsjs", "author": "/u/oalbrecht", "updated": "2026-06-02T10:52:00+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu626q/markets_are_up_for_everyone_dont_post_about_it/opalsjs/", "content": "I don’t get it. 😥" }, { "id": "t1_opaqpf6", "author": "/u/Bruceshadow", "updated": "2026-06-02T11:25:22+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu626q/markets_are_up_for_everyone_dont_post_about_it/opaqpf6/", "content": "It's either a reference to Walking Dead or a meme or walking dead." }, { "id": "t1_opcdfv1", "author": "/u/bumpman2", "updated": "2026-06-02T16:16:16+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu626q/markets_are_up_for_everyone_dont_post_about_it/opcdfv1/", "content": "It is making light of a message scrawled on hospital doors in the very first pilot episode of Walking Dead." }, { "id": "t1_opbv20j", "author": "/u/Nikoladge", "updated": "2026-06-02T14:55:22+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu626q/markets_are_up_for_everyone_dont_post_about_it/opbv20j/", "content": "some get won't this" }, { "id": "t1_opdz8sd", "author": "/u/sbgshadow", "updated": "2026-06-02T20:32:22+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu626q/markets_are_up_for_everyone_dont_post_about_it/opdz8sd/", "content": "Those who know" }, { "id": "t1_op7i72h", "author": "/u/OneImportance4061", "updated": "2026-06-01T22:02:44+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu626q/markets_are_up_for_everyone_dont_post_about_it/op7i72h/", "content": "If I live to be 100 I will never understand posting to a community about a thing related to the purpose of the community to ask people to not comment about that thing, which they themselves are tired of reading. There is no 'read every post rule'. (I have never made one of these posts but I am a really skilled selective clicker)" }, { "id": "t1_op7np8w", "author": "/u/ShortFinance", "updated": "2026-06-01T22:31:54+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu626q/markets_are_up_for_everyone_dont_post_about_it/op7np8w/", "content": "wtf why do people keep posting about their finances in this finances subreddit! And why do they keep having more money than me!\n Downvote" }, { "id": "t1_op934s1", "author": "/u/bhillis99", "updated": "2026-06-02T03:36:29+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu626q/markets_are_up_for_everyone_dont_post_about_it/op934s1/", "content": "dammit you got my downvote" }, { "id": "t1_opbzrm4", "author": "/u/jakedaboiii", "updated": "2026-06-02T15:16:30+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu626q/markets_are_up_for_everyone_dont_post_about_it/opbzrm4/", "content": "I think the issue is when people post to boast and feed their ego - rather than having anything of value to provide, or anything to add to any conversation, or at least a question." }, { "id": "t1_op7pg7z", "author": "/u/GlitteringCobbler987", "updated": "2026-06-01T22:41:21+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu626q/markets_are_up_for_everyone_dont_post_about_it/op7pg7z/", "content": "Right! We're not supposed to tell anyone IRL and now we can't talk about it here" }, { "id": "t1_opaqwrn", "author": "/u/Bruceshadow", "updated": "2026-06-02T11:26:42+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu626q/markets_are_up_for_everyone_dont_post_about_it/opaqwrn/", "content": "Only insecure people with shitty friends say that, tell whomever you want." }, { "id": "t1_op7jtx0", "author": "/u/wishfuldreams1971", "updated": "2026-06-01T22:11:14+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu626q/markets_are_up_for_everyone_dont_post_about_it/op7jtx0/", "content": "Amen!" }, { "id": "t1_op8lcoz", "author": "/u/Extension-Tap2635", "updated": "2026-06-02T01:44:51+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu626q/markets_are_up_for_everyone_dont_post_about_it/op8lcoz/", "content": "Surprisingly, the same complaint persists across a large number of subreddits.\n New person discovers subreddit, likes the content, said person sees same content, then complains ad nauseum about the posts that drew him to the subreddit. Sometimes mods ban repeated content, then subreddit dies." }, { "id": "t1_op9w635", "author": "/u/Salt-Detective1337", "updated": "2026-06-02T07:19:04+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu626q/markets_are_up_for_everyone_dont_post_about_it/op9w635/", "content": "Yup, OP should go check out r/financialindependence . I'm sure they'll love it." }, { "id": "t1_op8n21w", "author": "/u/P-d0g", "updated": "2026-06-02T01:55:05+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu626q/markets_are_up_for_everyone_dont_post_about_it/op8n21w/", "content": "An even bigger pet peeve of mine is the "just google it" or "just read the wiki" response when someone asks a question. Everyone's situation has its own nuances and someone who makes a post is obviously interested in having an active conversation. If you don't feel like answering a question, no one's holding a gun to your head and saying you have to chime in." }, { "id": "t1_op8eox7", "author": "/u/GenXMDThrowaway", "updated": "2026-06-02T01:05:03+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu626q/markets_are_up_for_everyone_dont_post_about_it/op8eox7/", "content": "Agree! It's hard to celebrate in really life. This space is the place to have a little celebration 🍾\n If anyone was going to post and was put off it, post! I'll clap for you!" }, { "id": "t1_opaaatf", "author": "/u/Strazdas1", "updated": "2026-06-02T09:21:58+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu626q/markets_are_up_for_everyone_dont_post_about_it/opaaatf/", "content": "Thats because you dont understand how communities are moderated to create healthy environments by reducing spam." }, { "id": "t1_op79m9u", "author": "/u/Samscquantch", "updated": "2026-06-01T21:20:12+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu626q/markets_are_up_for_everyone_dont_post_about_it/op79m9u/", "content": "How else will everyone know I’m now only 39 months away from my target number" }, { "id": "t1_op7b5n1", "author": "/u/temerairevm", "updated": "2026-06-01T21:27:36+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu626q/markets_are_up_for_everyone_dont_post_about_it/op7b5n1/", "content": "LOL Because the market is definitely going to behave predictably during those 39 months." }, { "id": "t1_op7wyeo", "author": "/u/TexasPenny", "updated": "2026-06-01T23:22:28+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu626q/markets_are_up_for_everyone_dont_post_about_it/op7wyeo/", "content": "Duh! It's a straight line angling up!" }, { "id": "t1_op7m8l2", "author": "/u/Wheat_Grinder", "updated": "2026-06-01T22:24:01+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu626q/markets_are_up_for_everyone_dont_post_about_it/op7m8l2/", "content": "Perhaps because you're always conveniently 39 months away from your target number" }, { "id": "t1_opa3jxp", "author": "/u/n3wacc0unt-1", "updated": "2026-06-02T08:23:09+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu626q/markets_are_up_for_everyone_dont_post_about_it/opa3jxp/", "content": "subscribed for next months update" }, { "id": "t1_op792lo", "author": "/u/sloth_333", "updated": "2026-06-01T21:17:37+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu626q/markets_are_up_for_everyone_dont_post_about_it/op792lo/", "content": "Who else am I going to tell about my portfolio surpassing 4.69420 million?" }, { "id": "t1_op79qfs", "author": "/u/Sufficient_Fan_8310", "updated": "2026-06-01T21:20:45+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu626q/markets_are_up_for_everyone_dont_post_about_it/op79qfs/", "content": "My drum teacher would probably think I'm having stroke if I started talking about portfolios in middle of lesson." }, { "id": "t1_op7evse", "author": "/u/Green_Bluebird5804", "updated": "2026-06-01T21:46:00+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu626q/markets_are_up_for_everyone_dont_post_about_it/op7evse/", "content": "hahahaha!" }, { "id": "t1_op7gu4d", "author": "/u/hadee75", "updated": "2026-06-01T21:55:47+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu626q/markets_are_up_for_everyone_dont_post_about_it/op7gu4d/", "content": "I love hearing everyone’s milestone stories lately and celebrating with them. We need to celebrate the good times cause the tide can turn any day now under the current geopolitical chaos. I vote for more posts and stories, as long as your numbers are included, particularly your goal, and your age." }, { "id": "t1_op7unpu", "author": "/u/QuesoChef", "updated": "2026-06-01T23:09:49+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu626q/markets_are_up_for_everyone_dont_post_about_it/op7unpu/", "content": "I have been so excited as I’ve hit milestones and have someone to celebrate with (I always tell my parents). So many people don’t feel like they can trust people with that information, so I’m really glad they have a place to post here.\n Some of my best memories with my dad is talking stocks. I used to listen to him and his brothers talking investments - strategies, wins, losses, what they’re thinking about next. Since they’ve passed now, I love asking him how his investments are doing. My mom has dementia and he’s the caretaker so I feel like the most light I see is when he talks stocks.\n Way deeper than this sub, but we all deserve someone to talk about success with!" }, { "id": "t1_op8f5kx", "author": "/u/hadee75", "updated": "2026-06-02T01:07:44+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu626q/markets_are_up_for_everyone_dont_post_about_it/op8f5kx/", "content": "Agreed! I’m glad your dad has his love of investing talk to help brighten his days." }, { "id": "t1_opbmizp", "author": "/u/epicallyconfused", "updated": "2026-06-02T14:16:16+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu626q/markets_are_up_for_everyone_dont_post_about_it/opbmizp/", "content": "Yes, 100% this! I retired last fall, and I love reading posts about people who are getting closer on their own journey. It makes me feel like I'm part of a community and I like virtually rooting for people, even if they are strangers! Like, come, join me, let's do this thing :)" }, { "id": "t1_opbo2s9", "author": "/u/hadee75", "updated": "2026-06-02T14:23:27+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu626q/markets_are_up_for_everyone_dont_post_about_it/opbo2s9/", "content": "Yes, it’s so exciting and makes me feel like I can get there too if I just stay the course!" }, { "id": "t1_op7bksm", "author": "/u/dwoj206", "updated": "2026-06-01T21:29:37+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu626q/markets_are_up_for_everyone_dont_post_about_it/op7bksm/", "content": "THANK YOU FOR YOUR ATTENTION TO THIS MATTER." }, { "id": "t1_op7tywx", "author": "/u/OfGodsAndMyths", "updated": "2026-06-01T23:06:02+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu626q/markets_are_up_for_everyone_dont_post_about_it/op7tywx/", "content": "This, I was waiting for someone to say it. Take my poor upvote!" }, { "id": "t1_op7ud85", "author": "/u/dwoj206", "updated": "2026-06-01T23:08:15+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu626q/markets_are_up_for_everyone_dont_post_about_it/op7ud85/", "content": "YES -- PPL CAN TAKE THEIR MILESTONES AND CRAM IT UP THEIR CRAMHOLE." }, { "id": "t1_op79m9e", "author": "/u/Ronnie3k", "updated": "2026-06-01T21:20:12+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu626q/markets_are_up_for_everyone_dont_post_about_it/op79m9e/", "content": "Shitty post.\n Financial goals are the only achievements you can’t really celebrate publicly and it stinks to be proud of something and to not be able to shout it from the mountaintops.\n Though it may be redundant in this sub the point of this sub is for people to be able to reach these goals and it doesn’t hurt anyone to let them have a moment when they get there." }, { "id": "t1_op7gtu7", "author": "/u/-shrug-", "updated": "2026-06-01T21:55:45+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu626q/markets_are_up_for_everyone_dont_post_about_it/op7gtu7/", "content": "If their version of "celebrate publicly" is "tell people you don't feel anything" then they should do it with the therapist they can afford." }, { "id": "t1_op7xwx1", "author": "/u/Noah_Safely", "updated": "2026-06-01T23:27:47+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu626q/markets_are_up_for_everyone_dont_post_about_it/op7xwx1/", "content": "You don't think there's some value in someone posting in a sub where people have shared goals that achieving that goal didn't bring the results they thought?" }, { "id": "t1_op997aa", "author": "/u/GetInTheHole", "updated": "2026-06-02T04:18:08+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu626q/markets_are_up_for_everyone_dont_post_about_it/op997aa/", "content": "No." }, { "id": "t1_opa2ycw", "author": "/u/jybulson", "updated": "2026-06-02T08:17:52+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu626q/markets_are_up_for_everyone_dont_post_about_it/opa2ycw/", "content": "Not being able to celebrate a few millions really is the first world problem." }, { "id": "t1_op798p1", "author": "/u/west-town-brad", "updated": "2026-06-01T21:18:25+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu626q/markets_are_up_for_everyone_dont_post_about_it/op798p1/", "content": "But I DO feel dead inside" }, { "id": "t1_op7c8e7", "author": "/u/gameraturtle", "updated": "2026-06-01T21:32:50+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu626q/markets_are_up_for_everyone_dont_post_about_it/op7c8e7/", "content": "I can verify, west-town-brad’s insides do feel very dead." }, { "id": "t1_op7ndrn", "author": "/u/maxdamage4", "updated": "2026-06-01T22:30:10+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu626q/markets_are_up_for_everyone_dont_post_about_it/op7ndrn/", "content": "And I thought he seemed dead..on the outside!" }, { "id": "t1_op7ldu5", "author": "/u/NonrationalWife", "updated": "2026-06-01T22:19:28+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu626q/markets_are_up_for_everyone_dont_post_about_it/op7ldu5/", "content": "same but it's not because of finances (have you SEEN the news)" }, { "id": "t1_op7bsi2", "author": "/u/mrboofington", "updated": "2026-06-01T21:30:41+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu626q/markets_are_up_for_everyone_dont_post_about_it/op7bsi2/", "content": "FIRE milestones aren't really something you can safely share in person. It makes sense to share them anonymously on subreddits like these. They might a bit tiring when the market goes up like it has the past 2 months but seeing other people reach goals they never thought were possible is a really cool thing." }, { "id": "t1_op7d1t9", "author": "/u/Celcius_87", "updated": "2026-06-01T21:36:53+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu626q/markets_are_up_for_everyone_dont_post_about_it/op7d1t9/", "content": "Let people post their milestones. You can just scroll past it if you want." }, { "id": "t1_op7epp0", "author": "/u/notathrowaway1133", "updated": "2026-06-01T21:45:09+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu626q/markets_are_up_for_everyone_dont_post_about_it/op7epp0/", "content": "I can’t tell anyone in my life, can I please share my number with you reddit." }, { "id": "t1_op7xc7k", "author": "/u/GoBuffaloes", "updated": "2026-06-01T23:24:35+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu626q/markets_are_up_for_everyone_dont_post_about_it/op7xc7k/", "content": "I'm listening. But if my number is bigger I'm gonna laugh at you." }, { "id": "t1_op7a6rp", "author": "/u/Suspicious-Fix9929", "updated": "2026-06-01T21:22:56+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu626q/markets_are_up_for_everyone_dont_post_about_it/op7a6rp/", "content": "Alternative option: keep scrolling" }, { "id": "t1_op7ae77", "author": "/u/ZolaThaGod", "updated": "2026-06-01T21:23:54+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu626q/markets_are_up_for_everyone_dont_post_about_it/op7ae77/", "content": "When do you expect people to post about their milestones? When markets are down?" }, { "id": "t1_op7ar14", "author": "/u/6ychpost", "updated": "2026-06-01T21:25:37+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu626q/markets_are_up_for_everyone_dont_post_about_it/op7ar14/", "content": "So don’t use the platform for its intended purpose of engaging with the community that also signed up for the same reasons?\n What, in your opinion, is ok to post since you’re the self proclaimed gatekeeper for all things FIRE?\n Sarcasm aside, I don’t particularly like the posts you’re talking about, but here’s the secret, just use a finger or thumb, your choice, and slide it up the screen and it will magically disappear. Oops that was still sarcastic." }, { "id": "t1_op7d6zd", "author": "/u/ItsTheEndOfDays", "updated": "2026-06-01T21:37:36+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu626q/markets_are_up_for_everyone_dont_post_about_it/op7d6zd/", "content": "lol @ your “oops”\n I’m already retired, but I’m here because it makes me happy to read about everyone hitting their goals. I wish I had known how to do this decades ago." }, { "id": "t1_op7dsr6", "author": "/u/6ychpost", "updated": "2026-06-01T21:40:37+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu626q/markets_are_up_for_everyone_dont_post_about_it/op7dsr6/", "content": "Yeah, I’m not retired yet but it’s pretty cool to see people getting excited about saving, retiring and getting out of the rat race.\n It’s a helluva lot better than the people who don’t save and expect to survive off of SS or welfare…" }, { "id": "t1_op7ijvj", "author": "/u/Haunted_Duck721", "updated": "2026-06-01T22:04:33+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu626q/markets_are_up_for_everyone_dont_post_about_it/op7ijvj/", "content": "He can even use his middle finger if he wants." }, { "id": "t1_op7g0hg", "author": "/u/Life_Commercial_6580", "updated": "2026-06-01T21:51:39+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu626q/markets_are_up_for_everyone_dont_post_about_it/op7g0hg/", "content": "I agree. I also don’t like the replies that say “this is a marriage issue not a FIRE issue”, because I don’t think it’s simply a math problem. It’s a big change that affects everyone in your life." }, { "id": "t1_op7a5c6", "author": "/u/DoNothingAtWork8346", "updated": "2026-06-01T21:22:45+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu626q/markets_are_up_for_everyone_dont_post_about_it/op7a5c6/", "content": "its because they feel good to show off.. its a human thing.." }, { "id": "t1_op7fe9a", "author": "/u/howardbagel", "updated": "2026-06-01T21:48:34+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu626q/markets_are_up_for_everyone_dont_post_about_it/op7fe9a/", "content": "there are no humans here. only bot." }, { "id": "t1_op7rdq1", "author": "/u/Learn_Everyday1989", "updated": "2026-06-01T22:51:49+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu626q/markets_are_up_for_everyone_dont_post_about_it/op7rdq1/", "content": "Hi bot!" }, { "id": "t1_op7w7we", "author": "/u/QuesoChef", "updated": "2026-06-01T23:18:25+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu626q/markets_are_up_for_everyone_dont_post_about_it/op7w7we/", "content": "Am I bot now?" }, { "id": "t1_opaakl4", "author": "/u/Strazdas1", "updated": "2026-06-02T09:24:19+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu626q/markets_are_up_for_everyone_dont_post_about_it/opaakl4/", "content": "We are all bot on this blessed day." }, { "id": "t1_op7ch1s", "author": "/u/XanaduBoogaloo", "updated": "2026-06-01T21:34:01+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu626q/markets_are_up_for_everyone_dont_post_about_it/op7ch1s/", "content": "I get this is the only avenue people have to share and celebrate some of their wins" }, { "id": "t1_op7kad6", "author": "/u/IHadTacosYesterday", "updated": "2026-06-01T22:13:39+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu626q/markets_are_up_for_everyone_dont_post_about_it/op7kad6/", "content": "There should be a sticky with a daily thread that people can use for quick little updates that don't need their own post" }, { "id": "t1_op7f9h0", "author": "/u/West_Flounder2840", "updated": "2026-06-01T21:47:54+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu626q/markets_are_up_for_everyone_dont_post_about_it/op7f9h0/", "content": "I (19M) hit 19 million but it doesn’t feel like enough to retire. Can someone good at investing help me figure out how to budget for retirement?\n Food - $200\n Data - $150\n Rent - $800\n Candles - $3600\n Utility - $150" }, { "id": "t1_op7hj8g", "author": "/u/AlwaysSaturday12", "updated": "2026-06-01T21:59:19+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu626q/markets_are_up_for_everyone_dont_post_about_it/op7hj8g/", "content": "Your spending too much for data with those numbers. Check with Mint.\n I also like candles." }, { "id": "t1_opabbh2", "author": "/u/Strazdas1", "updated": "2026-06-02T09:30:41+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu626q/markets_are_up_for_everyone_dont_post_about_it/opabbh2/", "content": "How else do you keep a perpetual FIRE going if not for candles? This should be a candles subreddit." }, { "id": "t1_op7jk8p", "author": "/u/InternetUser52", "updated": "2026-06-01T22:09:50+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu626q/markets_are_up_for_everyone_dont_post_about_it/op7jk8p/", "content": "Your rent is too high, find roommates or somewhere cheaper or get 30 million" }, { "id": "t1_op7k0pz", "author": "/u/plawwell", "updated": "2026-06-01T22:12:15+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu626q/markets_are_up_for_everyone_dont_post_about_it/op7k0pz/", "content": "Can you move back in with your parents? Otherwise I don't see how the numbers work." }, { "id": "t1_opa3goi", "author": "/u/n3wacc0unt-1", "updated": "2026-06-02T08:22:22+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu626q/markets_are_up_for_everyone_dont_post_about_it/opa3goi/", "content": "make your own candles\n pft gen whatever you are" }, { "id": "t1_opabnrn", "author": "/u/Strazdas1", "updated": "2026-06-02T09:33:36+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu626q/markets_are_up_for_everyone_dont_post_about_it/opabnrn/", "content": ""Our sires' age was worse than our grandsires'. We, their sons, are more worthless than they; so in our turn we shall give the world a progeny yet more corrupt." - Horace, Roman philosopher, ~1 century BC." }, { "id": "t1_opflxpa", "author": "/u/West_Flounder2840", "updated": "2026-06-03T01:42:34+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu626q/markets_are_up_for_everyone_dont_post_about_it/opflxpa/", "content": "No" }, { "id": "t1_op7krhx", "author": "/u/StrategicPotato", "updated": "2026-06-01T22:16:09+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu626q/markets_are_up_for_everyone_dont_post_about_it/op7krhx/", "content": "Too much on food, not enough candle wax." }, { "id": "t1_op7u4ue", "author": "/u/Smart_Werewolf_6529", "updated": "2026-06-01T23:06:57+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu626q/markets_are_up_for_everyone_dont_post_about_it/op7u4ue/", "content": "i hit 100 morbillion working from home in my tech sales job (LCOL city 20 hours a week schedule i know im putting extra hours) salary 700k. am i doing okay?" }, { "id": "t1_op7le4n", "author": "/u/bransiladams", "updated": "2026-06-01T22:19:30+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu626q/markets_are_up_for_everyone_dont_post_about_it/op7le4n/", "content": "Don’t police the internet. It doesn’t make you look cool.\n Thanks in advance." }, { "id": "t1_op7e6pp", "author": "/u/TowerProfessional959", "updated": "2026-06-01T21:42:33+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu626q/markets_are_up_for_everyone_dont_post_about_it/op7e6pp/", "content": "Someone is having a bad day." }, { "id": "t1_op7lg35", "author": "", "updated": "2026-06-01T22:19:48+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu626q/markets_are_up_for_everyone_dont_post_about_it/op7lg35/", "content": "[deleted]" }, { "id": "t1_op7y9u4", "author": "/u/Noah_Safely", "updated": "2026-06-01T23:29:47+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu626q/markets_are_up_for_everyone_dont_post_about_it/op7y9u4/", "content": "I don't disagree with the detector sentiment but they all sucks. None of them are reliable. If there's not an emdash, the phrases "load bearing" or "heavy lifting" then who knows.\n It's really easy to produce genAI text that looks legit enough that it's just a crapshoot." }, { "id": "t1_op8wagl", "author": "/u/cloverloop", "updated": "2026-06-02T02:51:41+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu626q/markets_are_up_for_everyone_dont_post_about_it/op8wagl/", "content": "The fact that everyone is getting rich is also perhaps not as good a thing as most people realize." }, { "id": "t1_op8z94y", "author": "/u/TenOfZero", "updated": "2026-06-02T03:10:45+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu626q/markets_are_up_for_everyone_dont_post_about_it/op8z94y/", "content": "Yeah. Stocks have not gone up in value. The currency is losing value. It's not actually really all that great." }, { "id": "t1_op9auu4", "author": "/u/CaliHusker83", "updated": "2026-06-02T04:30:00+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu626q/markets_are_up_for_everyone_dont_post_about_it/op9auu4/", "content": "Your money grows exponentially. Currency fluctuates and does not raise or lower exponentially.\n This is the silliest thing I see quite often on Reddit. Your $1M will double in 7 years, but the dollar isn’t going to plummet 100% in 7 years.\n Get a grip." }, { "id": "t1_opaaq3l", "author": "/u/Strazdas1", "updated": "2026-06-02T09:25:38+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu626q/markets_are_up_for_everyone_dont_post_about_it/opaaq3l/", "content": "Currency looses value exponentially. Thats what inflation is." }, { "id": "t1_opbbc0c", "author": "/u/CaliHusker83", "updated": "2026-06-02T13:21:52+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu626q/markets_are_up_for_everyone_dont_post_about_it/opbbc0c/", "content": "I’d like you to make a post of what you wrote and watch the comments that follow." }, { "id": "t1_opblqzi", "author": "/u/Strazdas1", "updated": "2026-06-02T14:12:36+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu626q/markets_are_up_for_everyone_dont_post_about_it/opblqzi/", "content": "You are free to make a post of what i wrote, i claim no copyright. I have no desire to make any such posts myself." }, { "id": "t1_opbo4mi", "author": "/u/cloverloop", "updated": "2026-06-02T14:23:41+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu626q/markets_are_up_for_everyone_dont_post_about_it/opbo4mi/", "content": "Their comment is objectively true though. It's measured by rate of change. With inflation rate consistently positive (even at 2%), it's exponential debasement of the currency." }, { "id": "t1_opbxzpy", "author": "/u/New_Feature_5138", "updated": "2026-06-02T15:08:36+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu626q/markets_are_up_for_everyone_dont_post_about_it/opbxzpy/", "content": "Like literally exponential or figuratively?" }, { "id": "t1_opc1xtf", "author": "/u/cloverloop", "updated": "2026-06-02T15:26:05+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu626q/markets_are_up_for_everyone_dont_post_about_it/opc1xtf/", "content": "Literally exponential.\n You take a bunch of annual debasements of 2% => 1/1.02 ~ 0.98 and string them together and get debasement of 0.98 n over n years.\n It happens faster than you think. At 5% annual inflation, it takes just 13 years to halve a currency." }, { "id": "t1_opepmvr", "author": "/u/New_Feature_5138", "updated": "2026-06-02T22:42:21+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu626q/markets_are_up_for_everyone_dont_post_about_it/opepmvr/", "content": "Oh yeah that does make sense. When we talk about inflation rates it’s always based on the value from the previous year and they compound." }, { "id": "t1_opajp3d", "author": "", "updated": "2026-06-02T10:37:02+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu626q/markets_are_up_for_everyone_dont_post_about_it/opajp3d/", "content": "[deleted]" }, { "id": "t1_opap3iy", "author": "/u/DuvishLabs", "updated": "2026-06-02T11:14:41+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu626q/markets_are_up_for_everyone_dont_post_about_it/opap3iy/", "content": "Rule 1/Civility - Civility is required of everyone at all times. If someone else is uncivil, then please report them and let the mods handle it without escalation. Please see our rules ( https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/about/rules/ ) and reach out via modmail if you have any questions or concerns." }, { "id": "t1_opbpreu", "author": "/u/cloverloop", "updated": "2026-06-02T14:31:14+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu626q/markets_are_up_for_everyone_dont_post_about_it/opbpreu/", "content": "Look up the definition of exponential. Inflation debases it exponentially.\n At the same rate? That's less clear.\n But that's not the claim in the comment. The claim in the comment is about short term effects.\n It's entirely possible that in some months the market grows more due to inflation and that in other months it grows more due to economic growth while the overall average is more economic growth than inflation." }, { "id": "t1_opbqc79", "author": "/u/TenOfZero", "updated": "2026-06-02T14:33:55+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu626q/markets_are_up_for_everyone_dont_post_about_it/opbqc79/", "content": "Curency does fluctuate, and does have a long term downwards trend that is built into the system, that is was inflation is.\n I never claimed currencies will be worthless in 7 years, I'm not sure where you got that from my post. That claim is the silliest thing I have seen.\n Currently inflation is high and the purchasing power of western currencies (CAD, USD, EUR) is decreasing relatively quickly and that drivers up the value of companies producing those goods as they now sell them for more." }, { "id": "t1_opaanmb", "author": "/u/Strazdas1", "updated": "2026-06-02T09:25:03+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu626q/markets_are_up_for_everyone_dont_post_about_it/opaanmb/", "content": "Everyone isnt getting rich. Most people here are a percentage of percentage of general population. Average person is negative net worth." }, { "id": "t1_op7d3it", "author": "/u/screamingcarnotaurus", "updated": "2026-06-01T21:37:07+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu626q/markets_are_up_for_everyone_dont_post_about_it/op7d3it/", "content": "Maybe we should have Milestone Monday. A thread every Monday for people to post their milestones." }, { "id": "t1_op7dql5", "author": "/u/No-Sympathy-686", "updated": "2026-06-01T21:40:19+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu626q/markets_are_up_for_everyone_dont_post_about_it/op7dql5/", "content": "3 years old, 60 million.\n What do?" }, { "id": "t1_op7ec94", "author": "/u/LunaSails007", "updated": "2026-06-01T21:43:18+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu626q/markets_are_up_for_everyone_dont_post_about_it/op7ec94/", "content": "😄😄😄" }, { "id": "t1_op7f0fl", "author": "/u/yuffie12", "updated": "2026-06-01T21:46:38+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu626q/markets_are_up_for_everyone_dont_post_about_it/op7f0fl/", "content": "Learn to proofread? 😜" }, { "id": "t1_op7kl6z", "author": "/u/LouNadeau", "updated": "2026-06-01T22:15:14+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu626q/markets_are_up_for_everyone_dont_post_about_it/op7kl6z/", "content": "Sorry we interrupted your internet. We should have been more considerate since you own Reddit and all." }, { "id": "t1_op8o9tp", "author": "/u/wildmaninid", "updated": "2026-06-02T02:02:27+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu626q/markets_are_up_for_everyone_dont_post_about_it/op8o9tp/", "content": "The subtle art of shutting the fuck up is almost completely lost." }, { "id": "t1_op9o10k", "author": "/u/Front_Knowledge_4383", "updated": "2026-06-02T06:11:48+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu626q/markets_are_up_for_everyone_dont_post_about_it/op9o10k/", "content": "this hits hard. the urge to share milestone screenshots when you're up 15% is real but nobody wants to hear it when their portfolio is flat or down. keep the celebration private until you actually withdraw something." }, { "id": "t1_op7ekrc", "author": "/u/ShootinAllMyChisolm", "updated": "2026-06-01T21:44:28+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu626q/markets_are_up_for_everyone_dont_post_about_it/op7ekrc/", "content": "I felt bad for a lady on Facebook yesterday. She clearly didn’t know what was going on, but posted how her 401k was returning “like 1%” a year.\n All I could do was tell her to review what it was invested in.\n My heart break. People told her to put money in her 401k and it was in some stable value fund (which even then might return 3-4%). Hopefully she’s you get but I don’t think so." }, { "id": "t1_op7fn1n", "author": "/u/RedQueenWhiteQueen", "updated": "2026-06-01T21:49:46+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu626q/markets_are_up_for_everyone_dont_post_about_it/op7fn1n/", "content": "How could you even get 1% right now? I have a big chunk sitting in a settlement fund, but it's still throwing off 3.5%." }, { "id": "t1_op7gdoq", "author": "/u/ShootinAllMyChisolm", "updated": "2026-06-01T21:53:30+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu626q/markets_are_up_for_everyone_dont_post_about_it/op7gdoq/", "content": "Like I said, I don’t think she knew anything about anything. Just that she had a 401k.\n I think it’d be worse if someone was managing it and taking a big chunk in fees and in some BS mutual fund." }, { "id": "t1_op7vemo", "author": "/u/QuesoChef", "updated": "2026-06-01T23:13:55+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu626q/markets_are_up_for_everyone_dont_post_about_it/op7vemo/", "content": "I think part of the problem is if you sit down to talk about funds and are scared of the market, there aren’t many lower risk options. My 401(k) has a money market option. I one time asked HR why that was there and what if people accidentally invested in it. And they said it was recommended to have well rounded options, and I said, “But they’d be better off in a bank CD.” And I got the impression some people were invested in it. I’m sure they didn’t know better." }, { "id": "t1_opab2l8", "author": "/u/Strazdas1", "updated": "2026-06-02T09:28:35+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu626q/markets_are_up_for_everyone_dont_post_about_it/opab2l8/", "content": "Yep, i have a friend who invested in money market and lost at that time half of his savings to it. We didnt let him live it down for a few years." }, { "id": "t1_op7ns80", "author": "/u/OregonGrown34", "updated": "2026-06-01T22:32:20+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu626q/markets_are_up_for_everyone_dont_post_about_it/op7ns80/", "content": "My uncle was happily telling me he was getting like 6% (no other context) so I asked what he was invested in... Edward Jones! I accidentally blurted out that I was sorry, but he was happy and the conversation moved on." }, { "id": "t1_opaaxqs", "author": "/u/Strazdas1", "updated": "2026-06-02T09:27:26+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu626q/markets_are_up_for_everyone_dont_post_about_it/opaaxqs/", "content": "Bank account with low return rate for cash. Shes just keeping her 401K in cash probably." }, { "id": "t1_op7tot4", "author": "/u/chubba4vt", "updated": "2026-06-01T23:04:29+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu626q/markets_are_up_for_everyone_dont_post_about_it/op7tot4/", "content": "You deserve applause for this post. I’m so sick of those posts lol" }, { "id": "t1_op7uix6", "author": "/u/QuerulousCivility", "updated": "2026-06-01T23:09:06+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu626q/markets_are_up_for_everyone_dont_post_about_it/op7uix6/", "content": "the thing is those milestone posts do get repetitive when you're scrolling through, but i get why the original poster is frustrated because it's the same question every time and the answer is always just "calculate your expenses and run the numbers" which takes like five minutes, so people posting "i hit 500k will i make it" without any actual details about their life makes the whole sub feel a bit like a humble brag machine instead of somewhere you can actually learn stuff. that said i also remember hitting my first 100k and being shocked and wanting to tell someone and there's nowhere else that feels safe to do it without people thinking you're weird, so maybe the solution is just scrolling past instead of getting mad about it, or mods could make a weekly milestone thread where people can post that stuff and keep the main feed for actual discussion and questions that need real answers." }, { "id": "t1_op7w4vv", "author": "/u/xixi2", "updated": "2026-06-01T23:17:56+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu626q/markets_are_up_for_everyone_dont_post_about_it/op7w4vv/", "content": "lmao what else do you think this sub is for?" }, { "id": "t1_op7dy9q", "author": "/u/parkchanwookiee", "updated": "2026-06-01T21:41:23+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu626q/markets_are_up_for_everyone_dont_post_about_it/op7dy9q/", "content": "I hit a new milestone and I'm completely ecstatic, it feels even better than I imagined. (my gains over just the last 10 months are more money than my salary)" }, { "id": "t1_op7hdps", "author": "/u/Great_Anywhere_5490", "updated": "2026-06-01T21:58:31+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu626q/markets_are_up_for_everyone_dont_post_about_it/op7hdps/", "content": "Kinda what this sub is about no?" }, { "id": "t1_op8u9pk", "author": "/u/TinySmolCat", "updated": "2026-06-02T02:39:04+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu626q/markets_are_up_for_everyone_dont_post_about_it/op8u9pk/", "content": "OP is just jealous cuz he kept mostly cash while everyoen else is making money in stocks" }, { "id": "t1_op7ohyo", "author": "/u/gingerbakerisgod", "updated": "2026-06-01T22:36:13+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu626q/markets_are_up_for_everyone_dont_post_about_it/op7ohyo/", "content": "Why don't you just let people Express themselves as they wish instead of acting like a gatekeeper to this sub. If you're feeling some sense of authority over all of these people that you don't know it's imaginary." }, { "id": "t1_op7vhui", "author": "/u/Hate_Leg_Day", "updated": "2026-06-01T23:14:24+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu626q/markets_are_up_for_everyone_dont_post_about_it/op7vhui/", "content": "This subreddit used to be much more interesting (at least in my personal opinion). Now it's just people posting the same thing over and over and over again." }, { "id": "t1_opabsq6", "author": "/u/Strazdas1", "updated": "2026-06-02T09:34:48+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu626q/markets_are_up_for_everyone_dont_post_about_it/opabsq6/", "content": "Gatekeeping is necessary for a functional subreddit. Otherwise it turns into spam like the default subs. Luckily in reddit we, the users, have a way to gatekeep with our votes." }, { "id": "t1_opawie2", "author": "/u/gingerbakerisgod", "updated": "2026-06-02T12:01:22+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu626q/markets_are_up_for_everyone_dont_post_about_it/opawie2/", "content": "Someone down vote him to create irony please" }, { "id": "t1_op7wszl", "author": "/u/Ancient-Swordfish292", "updated": "2026-06-01T23:21:38+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu626q/markets_are_up_for_everyone_dont_post_about_it/op7wszl/", "content": "This post feels like a paradox. They're writing a post saying the market is up and to not make posts about the market being up.\n Hey, at least the market is up. That's nice." }, { "id": "t1_op7xgpt", "author": "/u/thesonofdarwin", "updated": "2026-06-01T23:25:16+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu626q/markets_are_up_for_everyone_dont_post_about_it/op7xgpt/", "content": "I hope when I FIRE I can dream up better things to do with my time than gatekeep how others engage with a community.\n Fuck if that's the sad existence I have to look forward to, I may as well keep working. Thanks OP." }, { "id": "t1_op88olx", "author": "/u/Mama_Peaches", "updated": "2026-06-02T00:29:39+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu626q/markets_are_up_for_everyone_dont_post_about_it/op88olx/", "content": "Thank you. I feel like every post that shows up in my feed is just some brag about their stock portfolio. Great, everybody’s stocks are on a tear. So what?" }, { "id": "t1_opbf9ci", "author": "/u/DAWHO200", "updated": "2026-06-02T13:41:19+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu626q/markets_are_up_for_everyone_dont_post_about_it/opbf9ci/", "content": "You’ve def been holding cash waiting for a market pull back hahaha" }, { "id": "t1_opc7d3f", "author": "/u/NevyTheChemist", "updated": "2026-06-02T15:49:48+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu626q/markets_are_up_for_everyone_dont_post_about_it/opc7d3f/", "content": "All the god damn boomers at work do this and think they're master investors" }, { "id": "t1_op7abt8", "author": "/u/Pale_Fox_8874s", "updated": "2026-06-01T21:23:36+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu626q/markets_are_up_for_everyone_dont_post_about_it/op7abt8/", "content": "Yawn 🥱 just announce your departure in the next post" }, { "id": "t1_op7amr5", "author": "/u/Mtlam", "updated": "2026-06-01T21:25:03+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu626q/markets_are_up_for_everyone_dont_post_about_it/op7amr5/", "content": "Bro I don't have anyone to share with it and I need to share it /s. Congrats and good for you for hitting your milestones for you people out there lol." }, { "id": "t1_op7effr", "author": "/u/Green_Bluebird5804", "updated": "2026-06-01T21:43:45+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu626q/markets_are_up_for_everyone_dont_post_about_it/op7effr/", "content": "hahaha, agree" }, { "id": "t1_op7fcif", "author": "/u/Napervillian", "updated": "2026-06-01T21:48:19+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu626q/markets_are_up_for_everyone_dont_post_about_it/op7fcif/", "content": "Hahaha preach" }, { "id": "t1_op7hx7z", "author": "/u/nnuummiinnoouuss", "updated": "2026-06-01T22:01:20+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu626q/markets_are_up_for_everyone_dont_post_about_it/op7hx7z/", "content": "Yeah, every time I see a post like that I think “let’s see how this goes next time there’s a downturn”" }, { "id": "t1_op7hy8n", "author": "/u/JoyousMisery", "updated": "2026-06-01T22:01:28+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu626q/markets_are_up_for_everyone_dont_post_about_it/op7hy8n/", "content": "This the only way I can recognize these unrealized gains" }, { "id": "t1_op7hzb7", "author": "/u/DeadFacesInMyPocket", "updated": "2026-06-01T22:01:38+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu626q/markets_are_up_for_everyone_dont_post_about_it/op7hzb7/", "content": "I am convinced they are bots. They are jn the FIRE subs too. It is bullshit fake posts and lies, alll of it. Mark my words!!" }, { "id": "t1_op7n4xr", "author": "/u/troublesomefaux", "updated": "2026-06-01T22:28:50+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu626q/markets_are_up_for_everyone_dont_post_about_it/op7n4xr/", "content": "I’d rather see that than people whinging about having too much money for their kids to steal merit based scholarships to elite schools. 🤮" }, { "id": "t1_op7p55m", "author": "/u/MeloniousV2", "updated": "2026-06-01T22:39:43+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu626q/markets_are_up_for_everyone_dont_post_about_it/op7p55m/", "content": "Jokes on you man I managed to lose money >:)" }, { "id": "t1_op7scep", "author": "/u/Opposite-Value-5706", "updated": "2026-06-01T22:57:05+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu626q/markets_are_up_for_everyone_dont_post_about_it/op7scep/", "content": "Correction! Markets are up for those of us with investments. That does NOT include most Americans." }, { "id": "t1_op7xpqt", "author": "/u/Noah_Safely", "updated": "2026-06-01T23:26:39+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu626q/markets_are_up_for_everyone_dont_post_about_it/op7xpqt/", "content": "I agree, we should all be silent. In fact we should delete the sub.\n Or was there some other point you were trying to make?" }, { "id": "t1_op8e41g", "author": "/u/Mister-ellaneous", "updated": "2026-06-02T01:01:39+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu626q/markets_are_up_for_everyone_dont_post_about_it/op8e41g/", "content": "Shhhhh don’t talk about FIRE unless it’s to debate 4.723% vs 3.213% SWR." }, { "id": "t1_op7y0g6", "author": "/u/maintain_improvement", "updated": "2026-06-01T23:28:19+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu626q/markets_are_up_for_everyone_dont_post_about_it/op7y0g6/", "content": "Is this r/gatekeeping ?" }, { "id": "t1_opabv8c", "author": "/u/Strazdas1", "updated": "2026-06-02T09:35:25+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu626q/markets_are_up_for_everyone_dont_post_about_it/opabv8c/", "content": "You mean the thing that is good and necessary to any functional social group?" }, { "id": "t1_op7yrdb", "author": "/u/jjfaddad", "updated": "2026-06-01T23:32:30+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu626q/markets_are_up_for_everyone_dont_post_about_it/op7yrdb/", "content": "I think this belongs on r/fijerk" }, { "id": "t1_op8c1n3", "author": "/u/Busy_Resort_3262", "updated": "2026-06-02T00:49:35+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu626q/markets_are_up_for_everyone_dont_post_about_it/op8c1n3/", "content": "I’m 12 and just crossed $10M, I’ve been investing since I was in diapers. Can I retire?" }, { "id": "t1_op8orf1", "author": "/u/theotisfinklestein", "updated": "2026-06-02T02:05:24+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu626q/markets_are_up_for_everyone_dont_post_about_it/op8orf1/", "content": "You consider 12 retiring early?" }, { "id": "t1_op8q3jd", "author": "/u/Busy_Resort_3262", "updated": "2026-06-02T02:13:26+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu626q/markets_are_up_for_everyone_dont_post_about_it/op8q3jd/", "content": "You’re right, 5 years too late." }, { "id": "t1_opabzoq", "author": "/u/Strazdas1", "updated": "2026-06-02T09:36:28+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu626q/markets_are_up_for_everyone_dont_post_about_it/opabzoq/", "content": "We need to encourage pre-natal retirement." }, { "id": "t1_opb0tgf", "author": "/u/Busy_Resort_3262", "updated": "2026-06-02T12:26:10+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu626q/markets_are_up_for_everyone_dont_post_about_it/opb0tgf/", "content": "That’s a tough one. But with AI taking a lot of jobs, it’s doable." }, { "id": "t1_op8m1t4", "author": "/u/Imaginary_Victory253", "updated": "2026-06-02T01:49:05+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu626q/markets_are_up_for_everyone_dont_post_about_it/op8m1t4/", "content": "I hit my regular ass paycheck today and feel dead inside... How long can I retire with 1x my biweekly expenses saved up?" }, { "id": "t1_op8pe3j", "author": "/u/ColdPangolin5355", "updated": "2026-06-02T02:09:10+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu626q/markets_are_up_for_everyone_dont_post_about_it/op8pe3j/", "content": "It’s social media cock flashing" }, { "id": "t1_op8u7zw", "author": "/u/-_Edmond_Dantes_-", "updated": "2026-06-02T02:38:46+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu626q/markets_are_up_for_everyone_dont_post_about_it/op8u7zw/", "content": "This sub isn’t as bad but some are so painful to see. People thinking they found the trading secret or making plans based on the swing. We were overdue for a good bull run but there are a lot of bad indicators right now. People should be planning to shelter from things like spacex, crypto bust, any company who’s only product is AI reuse without a foundational offering, companies who have a competitor being monopolized by the gop. It’s cold out here for a bear." }, { "id": "t1_op91wmy", "author": "/u/Banned3rdTimesaCharm", "updated": "2026-06-02T03:28:18+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu626q/markets_are_up_for_everyone_dont_post_about_it/op91wmy/", "content": "But I have no one else to tell!\n Because not telling anyone is obviously not an option." }, { "id": "t1_op9an9l", "author": "/u/CenlaLowell", "updated": "2026-06-02T04:28:27+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu626q/markets_are_up_for_everyone_dont_post_about_it/op9an9l/", "content": "Lol the comments here" }, { "id": "t1_op9dk6p", "author": "/u/smithy-", "updated": "2026-06-02T04:49:48+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu626q/markets_are_up_for_everyone_dont_post_about_it/op9dk6p/", "content": "Age 12 and I just hit FIRE selling lemonade on weekends. $12 million liquid. Unsure of how to feel." }, { "id": "t1_op9qoql", "author": "/u/dskippy", "updated": "2026-06-02T06:33:44+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu626q/markets_are_up_for_everyone_dont_post_about_it/op9qoql/", "content": "So very much needs to be said. The content on this sub swings daily with the market." }, { "id": "t1_opa0wji", "author": "/u/Classic-Economist294", "updated": "2026-06-02T08:00:04+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu626q/markets_are_up_for_everyone_dont_post_about_it/opa0wji/", "content": "I'm down 15% YTD, what are you talking about?" }, { "id": "t1_opbiixr", "author": "/u/Old_Party3623", "updated": "2026-06-02T13:57:14+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu626q/markets_are_up_for_everyone_dont_post_about_it/opbiixr/", "content": "I have no idea if any of this is real. somebody referenced this subreddit on r/personalfinance which i'm on quite often and gives realistic salaries, budgets, and index funds. All the posts seem to be "I'm in my 20s and hit 1M" but their expenses and investment portfolio are a complete mystery.\n Like is any of this subreddit real? What's the point of lying on an anonymous message board about your personal finances?" }, { "id": "t1_opdak6h", "author": "/u/mydknyght79", "updated": "2026-06-02T18:40:18+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu626q/markets_are_up_for_everyone_dont_post_about_it/opdak6h/", "content": "My (46M) portfolio just hit $566,775. Feels great after 10 years of diligently saving to finally hit this milestone after a late start with negative net worth. Will provide another update when I hit $566,891. Also, I feel dead inside.\n Edit: updated my target to account for 0.000001% chance of asteroid destroying all life; 3.999999% SWR." }, { "id": "t1_opeh9e7", "author": "/u/smithy-", "updated": "2026-06-02T21:58:59+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu626q/markets_are_up_for_everyone_dont_post_about_it/opeh9e7/", "content": "$1 billion liquid at age 2 and I'm still in diapers. Can I pull the trigger?" }, { "id": "t1_op79sjz", "author": "/u/Starbuck522", "updated": "2026-06-01T21:21:02+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu626q/markets_are_up_for_everyone_dont_post_about_it/op79sjz/", "content": "It actually made me go take a look.\n I went ahead and deleted my thoughts. 🤣🤣🤣" }, { "id": "t1_op7iuhs", "author": "/u/Bearsbanker", "updated": "2026-06-01T22:06:06+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu626q/markets_are_up_for_everyone_dont_post_about_it/op7iuhs/", "content": "The market is up for me, I hit all my milestones, I feel dead I side, I'm 22 and burned out after working 6 months, I have $16 billion dollars and live on 28,000....can I retire? Should take social security at 62?....I was born poor with only 8 billion ...but I doubled it." }, { "id": "t1_op7jp9k", "author": "/u/fredinNH", "updated": "2026-06-01T22:10:34+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu626q/markets_are_up_for_everyone_dont_post_about_it/op7jp9k/", "content": "Especially if you’re in your 20’s" }, { "id": "t1_op7l7iq", "author": "/u/pondelniholka", "updated": "2026-06-01T22:18:31+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu626q/markets_are_up_for_everyone_dont_post_about_it/op7l7iq/", "content": "I want my portfolio to drop 30% just to feel something again" }, { "id": "t1_op7ln38", "author": "/u/BlueMountainCoffey", "updated": "2026-06-01T22:20:51+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu626q/markets_are_up_for_everyone_dont_post_about_it/op7ln38/", "content": "So you want to eliminate 90% of all posts in this sub." }, { "id": "t1_op7omkp", "author": "/u/Imaginary-Pair838", "updated": "2026-06-01T22:36:55+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu626q/markets_are_up_for_everyone_dont_post_about_it/op7omkp/", "content": "I hit $1Trillion today. No debt and monthly expenses are $5000/mo. Can i retire?! 😂" }, { "id": "t1_op7r83z", "author": "/u/Jmauld", "updated": "2026-06-01T22:50:59+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu626q/markets_are_up_for_everyone_dont_post_about_it/op7r83z/", "content": "Your username makes me feel dead inside. Plus my investments are at ann all time high!" }, { "id": "t1_op7rfg4", "author": "/u/Bulky-Tradition-7181", "updated": "2026-06-01T22:52:05+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu626q/markets_are_up_for_everyone_dont_post_about_it/op7rfg4/", "content": "I can’t even relate, even a 0.1% increase in a day is enough to produce mild satisfaction, not dead inside, “nice I’m a little bit closer to opting out of the workforce”" }, { "id": "t1_op7rgi1", "author": "/u/Elegant-Average9875", "updated": "2026-06-01T22:52:14+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu626q/markets_are_up_for_everyone_dont_post_about_it/op7rgi1/", "content": "LOL so you only want bad news. This is an group that documents win/loses. Negative nellies usually don't find success, only finding comfort in failure." }, { "id": "t1_op7ru9u", "author": "/u/QuesoChef", "updated": "2026-06-01T22:54:20+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu626q/markets_are_up_for_everyone_dont_post_about_it/op7ru9u/", "content": "Nah. I love celebrating major milestones. This is only OP’s opinion. And only speaking for OP, not the sub. I’d rather have a milestone post than a grumpy gatekeeping post.\n Everyone else, post away. We all hit milestones in an up market. That’s almost always when they arrive. Enjoy it!" }, { "id": "t1_op7yh5a", "author": "/u/Noah_Safely", "updated": "2026-06-01T23:30:55+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu626q/markets_are_up_for_everyone_dont_post_about_it/op7yh5a/", "content": "I don't like the kinda "generic" milestone posts that much but I just, you know, keep scrolling." }, { "id": "t1_op8ty7u", "author": "/u/QuesoChef", "updated": "2026-06-02T02:37:04+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu626q/markets_are_up_for_everyone_dont_post_about_it/op8ty7u/", "content": "Yeah, I interact like 40% of my feed. Lots of stuff in lots of subs I don’t interact with.\n I like that people have a place to celebrate. I like it better if the give details. But I also don’t want a hyper rigid sub. Actual REs are my favorite since they’re so rare. Again, better with details, but ok without." }, { "id": "t1_op7tmpg", "author": "/u/Western_Rhubarb_7959", "updated": "2026-06-01T23:04:09+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu626q/markets_are_up_for_everyone_dont_post_about_it/op7tmpg/", "content": "I retire on Friday, IDGAF what the markets are doing.\n WGAF in advance." }, { "id": "t1_op7u8st", "author": "/u/mixedmediamadness", "updated": "2026-06-01T23:07:34+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu626q/markets_are_up_for_everyone_dont_post_about_it/op7u8st/", "content": "Hahaha my space heavy account took a massive hit today. But okay, go off kween" }, { "id": "t1_op7vopp", "author": "/u/Excellent_Drop6869", "updated": "2026-06-01T23:15:27+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu626q/markets_are_up_for_everyone_dont_post_about_it/op7vopp/", "content": "Now the question is do I project my future net worth based on today’s valuations as the base, or do I cut the starting value to be conservative ? 😂" }, { "id": "t1_op814fj", "author": "/u/Cold_Assignment3157", "updated": "2026-06-01T23:45:52+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu626q/markets_are_up_for_everyone_dont_post_about_it/op814fj/", "content": "We're in the tendies." }, { "id": "t1_op81jsc", "author": "/u/fatheadlifter", "updated": "2026-06-01T23:48:17+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu626q/markets_are_up_for_everyone_dont_post_about_it/op81jsc/", "content": "The upper branch of the K bragging and complaining. =)" }, { "id": "t1_op84so3", "author": "/u/tyen0", "updated": "2026-06-02T00:07:01+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu626q/markets_are_up_for_everyone_dont_post_about_it/op84so3/", "content": "At this point we have almost as many posts complaining about milestone posts as the milestone posts. I say, "meh" to you. Let people post what they want and the votes decide.\n advTHANKSnce" }, { "id": "t1_op85svt", "author": "/u/troidem", "updated": "2026-06-02T00:12:49+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu626q/markets_are_up_for_everyone_dont_post_about_it/op85svt/", "content": "Some one is jealous 😄" }, { "id": "t1_op8ey6q", "author": "/u/chaoscorgi", "updated": "2026-06-02T01:06:32+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu626q/markets_are_up_for_everyone_dont_post_about_it/op8ey6q/", "content": "can we normalize talking to our friends in real life about money so this stops plz i'm begging" }, { "id": "t1_op8o4x5", "author": "/u/opaljelli", "updated": "2026-06-02T02:01:38+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu626q/markets_are_up_for_everyone_dont_post_about_it/op8o4x5/", "content": "to turn around and whine about it bc “you feel nothing”" }, { "id": "t1_op933s6", "author": "/u/Yukycg", "updated": "2026-06-02T03:36:18+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu626q/markets_are_up_for_everyone_dont_post_about_it/op933s6/", "content": "OP just ignore those posts, I call them the Jones of fire, when the market drop 10-20%, people will cry and panic. It is good that the market accelerates everyone FIRE target and just chill and enjoy the ride." }, { "id": "t1_op99v9t", "author": "/u/False_Influence_9090", "updated": "2026-06-02T04:22:50+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu626q/markets_are_up_for_everyone_dont_post_about_it/op99v9t/", "content": "Is the market up, or is USD down? 🙃🧠" }, { "id": "t1_op9fupr", "author": "/u/UnderEmployed27388", "updated": "2026-06-02T05:07:06+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu626q/markets_are_up_for_everyone_dont_post_about_it/op9fupr/", "content": "My ancestor set up a trust fund with some of Ramses II gold he stole 3000 years ago. Net worth is as follows:\n Total NW: $9.2 quadrillion\n Land: $5.4 quadrillion\n Commodities: 3.6 quadrillion\n Precious Metals 200 trillion\n Schwab Brokerage: $17k\n HYSA: $31k\n Roth IRA: 115k\n Crypto: $13k\n Can I retire with a 0.001 withdrawal rate?" }, { "id": "t1_op9gw75", "author": "/u/SolomonGrumpy", "updated": "2026-06-02T05:15:09+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu626q/markets_are_up_for_everyone_dont_post_about_it/op9gw75/", "content": "Especially when your portfolio is up way high than any sane investment strategy would be up.\n What's that? You put your entire life savings into penny stocks and your portfolio went up 400%?\n Also if you make big money ($300k+) and are living like a monk while shoving 6 figures into the market and counting that as growth....at least say it in your post." }, { "id": "t1_opa4xv7", "author": "/u/MemoryLongjumping742", "updated": "2026-06-02T08:35:24+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu626q/markets_are_up_for_everyone_dont_post_about_it/opa4xv7/", "content": "Are they? Damn, I am basically at a net zero YTD after the drop in Q1." }, { "id": "t1_opamkdg", "author": "/u/Animag771", "updated": "2026-06-02T10:57:23+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu626q/markets_are_up_for_everyone_dont_post_about_it/opamkdg/", "content": "How is that even possible? What are you investing in?" }, { "id": "t1_opcyra1", "author": "/u/MemoryLongjumping742", "updated": "2026-06-02T17:48:51+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu626q/markets_are_up_for_everyone_dont_post_about_it/opcyra1/", "content": "well, see my comment above" }, { "id": "t1_opc7l9v", "author": "/u/NevyTheChemist", "updated": "2026-06-02T15:50:47+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu626q/markets_are_up_for_everyone_dont_post_about_it/opc7l9v/", "content": "How lmao all indices are up like 10+%" }, { "id": "t1_opcydpb", "author": "/u/MemoryLongjumping742", "updated": "2026-06-02T17:47:14+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu626q/markets_are_up_for_everyone_dont_post_about_it/opcydpb/", "content": "yea, it's my fault entirely. My portfolio consists of 40% equity funds, 40% bonds and REITS and 20% ETFs. I am slowly moving money into iShares Core MSCI World UCITS ETF, but I just know that if I were to do it all at once, that would be the exact moment when we enter a lost decade." }, { "id": "t1_opaieqv", "author": "/u/NashDaypring1987", "updated": "2026-06-02T10:27:21+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu626q/markets_are_up_for_everyone_dont_post_about_it/opaieqv/", "content": "You should post about your stock portfolio in the crypto sub reddit 😄" }, { "id": "t1_opathmu", "author": "/u/PrestigiousDrag7674", "updated": "2026-06-02T11:43:05+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu626q/markets_are_up_for_everyone_dont_post_about_it/opathmu/", "content": "it's crazy when a small good news to $50 billion dollars market cap gets a 30% gain in a day? someone doesn't call this a bubble? 25 years investing experience, and never seen anything like this." }, { "id": "t1_opaw801", "author": "/u/tsultar1", "updated": "2026-06-02T11:59:39+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu626q/markets_are_up_for_everyone_dont_post_about_it/opaw801/", "content": "But but but….." }, { "id": "t1_opawp73", "author": "/u/luckyshot33", "updated": "2026-06-02T12:02:29+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu626q/markets_are_up_for_everyone_dont_post_about_it/opawp73/", "content": "Some days I wish there was a sub that’s a cross between r/GenX and r/fire . People wouldn’t bother posting about milestones or stressing about hitting their number. (Who cares?) It would be posts about paying for ridiculously expensive tickets to watch washed up 80s and 90s bands and dreaming about time travel so they could go back and relive their youth. I would join that sub. But I probably wouldn’t post or comment… about anything." }, { "id": "t1_opb84kw", "author": "/u/Even-Outcome-2342", "updated": "2026-06-02T13:05:38+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu626q/markets_are_up_for_everyone_dont_post_about_it/opb84kw/", "content": "King" }, { "id": "t1_opb8fq6", "author": "/u/Pcenemy", "updated": "2026-06-02T13:07:15+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu626q/markets_are_up_for_everyone_dont_post_about_it/opb8fq6/", "content": "but if we don't tell you, how will you know what the number is?\n ask yourself - would you really be happier not knowing that my portfolio just hit 50M resulting in you mistakenly setting your target at only 45M?" }, { "id": "t1_opc8kvl", "author": "/u/Dreauxglyn", "updated": "2026-06-02T15:55:05+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu626q/markets_are_up_for_everyone_dont_post_about_it/opc8kvl/", "content": "Someone needed to say it. Lol" }, { "id": "t1_opcfx5o", "author": "/u/Possible-Mud-1380", "updated": "2026-06-02T16:27:08+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu626q/markets_are_up_for_everyone_dont_post_about_it/opcfx5o/", "content": "Pretty basic sub with not a lot to talk about really that hasn't been said a million times. Why not post about this? Clearly people are concerned about risk of a bubble and want to discuss if the usual FIRE strategy buy and hold index funds is really the best option right now." }, { "id": "t1_opdh016", "author": "/u/BJJBean", "updated": "2026-06-02T19:08:47+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu626q/markets_are_up_for_everyone_dont_post_about_it/opdh016/", "content": "The market is up? Interesting, I only check it once a year so I never know." }, { "id": "t1_ope0bix", "author": "/u/Tomorrow-Memory-8838", "updated": "2026-06-02T20:37:23+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu626q/markets_are_up_for_everyone_dont_post_about_it/ope0bix/", "content": "Sometimes I look at my portfolio and get a big head. Then I come to /r/FIRE to remember I'm a peasant compared to ya'll." }, { "id": "t1_ope841f", "author": "/u/Various_Sleep_3571", "updated": "2026-06-02T21:13:54+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu626q/markets_are_up_for_everyone_dont_post_about_it/ope841f/", "content": "A bit of a miserable post. Let people celebrate their successes and milestones in a community of like minded people" }, { "id": "t1_opebh4s", "author": "/u/tomatillo_teratoma", "updated": "2026-06-02T21:30:11+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu626q/markets_are_up_for_everyone_dont_post_about_it/opebh4s/", "content": "You can always scroll past posts that don't interest you.\n If it's posted in the right way, an anonymous post about gains someone is seeing could be very motivating for someone just starting out." }, { "id": "t1_opehg8t", "author": "/u/ElectricFreeReeds", "updated": "2026-06-02T21:59:56+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu626q/markets_are_up_for_everyone_dont_post_about_it/opehg8t/", "content": "I like finding out that I’m up from Reddit lmao." }, { "id": "t1_op7a1ug", "author": "/u/OverlordBluebook", "updated": "2026-06-01T21:22:17+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu626q/markets_are_up_for_everyone_dont_post_about_it/op7a1ug/", "content": "When everything is near the peak, charts show a giant line up it's time to sell some stuff you have. I'm cashing out some IRA's since I don't get taxed on them just going to leave them in a cash or bond fund temporarily. May take some profits of Google since it's near it's highest of the high but will get taxed on this.\n IRAS that came from 401ks are the best ones to sell and hold until we have a extended down run. I plan on selling some here soon why not?" }, { "id": "t1_op7dbh0", "author": "/u/CryptoHorologist", "updated": "2026-06-01T21:38:14+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu626q/markets_are_up_for_everyone_dont_post_about_it/op7dbh0/", "content": "Please subscribe me to your timing the market newsletter." }, { "id": "t1_op7quhc", "author": "/u/OverlordBluebook", "updated": "2026-06-01T22:48:55+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu626q/markets_are_up_for_everyone_dont_post_about_it/op7quhc/", "content": "Will do I just have to consult my uncle Nostradamus." }, { "id": "t1_op7iga3", "author": "/u/Number127", "updated": "2026-06-01T22:04:03+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu626q/markets_are_up_for_everyone_dont_post_about_it/op7iga3/", "content": "why not?\n You're most likely losing money is why not. If you sell now and wait for a dip to buy, you're missing out on the potential gains between now and then. And, statistically, the market is more likely to go up than down, so you may be waiting a long time while inflation erodes the giant pile of cash you're sitting on." }, { "id": "t1_op9ctcn", "author": "/u/CaliHusker83", "updated": "2026-06-02T04:44:19+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu626q/markets_are_up_for_everyone_dont_post_about_it/op9ctcn/", "content": "The s and p has been within 5% of its all time highs 44% of the days it’s been charted.\n You need new charts." }, { "id": "t1_op7afc3", "author": "/u/barebackguy7", "updated": "2026-06-01T21:24:04+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu626q/markets_are_up_for_everyone_dont_post_about_it/op7afc3/", "content": "My portfolio (VTI/VXUS) is down $8" }, { "id": "t1_op7g03d", "author": "/u/Kcirnek_", "updated": "2026-06-01T21:51:36+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu626q/markets_are_up_for_everyone_dont_post_about_it/op7g03d/", "content": "Except the Bears buying Puts getting wrecked aren't posting about it" }, { "id": "t1_op7gh6y", "author": "/u/howtoretireby40", "updated": "2026-06-01T21:53:59+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu626q/markets_are_up_for_everyone_dont_post_about_it/op7gh6y/", "content": "Just tell them GFY and move on lol" }, { "id": "t1_op7hdq0", "author": "/u/aceman97", "updated": "2026-06-01T21:58:31+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu626q/markets_are_up_for_everyone_dont_post_about_it/op7hdq0/", "content": "How dare you tell me just to circle jerk! I’m so angry I’m molting." }, { "id": "t1_op7hvxv", "author": "/u/incomeGuy30-50better", "updated": "2026-06-01T22:01:08+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu626q/markets_are_up_for_everyone_dont_post_about_it/op7hvxv/", "content": "Great point. The Fed has created $.68 of every dollar we own today since the GFC. We aren’t that smart. It’s just the M2 money supply is obnoxiously high. Everyone’s stock portfolio is rocking. (Unless you own bonds)" }, { "id": "t1_op7jg0q", "author": "/u/mr---jones", "updated": "2026-06-01T22:09:13+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu626q/markets_are_up_for_everyone_dont_post_about_it/op7jg0q/", "content": "Bros mad he managed to find a loss" }, { "id": "t1_op7jkwv", "author": "/u/Feisty-Hat2629", "updated": "2026-06-01T22:09:55+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu626q/markets_are_up_for_everyone_dont_post_about_it/op7jkwv/", "content": "I’m stressed out and need to take Pepto Bismol for my tummy ache. I’m 35 with a 2MM liquid NW." }, { "id": "t1_op7jusq", "author": "/u/fav453", "updated": "2026-06-01T22:11:22+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu626q/markets_are_up_for_everyone_dont_post_about_it/op7jusq/", "content": "I have been saying for a few weeks the all-time high market triggered so many milestone posts on this sub." }, { "id": "t1_op7jx2c", "author": "/u/Psynaut", "updated": "2026-06-01T22:11:42+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu626q/markets_are_up_for_everyone_dont_post_about_it/op7jx2c/", "content": "bUt ThE MaRkEt iS dEtAcHeD fRoM ReAlItY - Why is nobody talking about this??! /S" }, { "id": "t1_op7l5n9", "author": "/u/shanewzR", "updated": "2026-06-01T22:18:15+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu626q/markets_are_up_for_everyone_dont_post_about_it/op7l5n9/", "content": "Hey I made the market go to historic highs, why can't I show off about it 😄" }, { "id": "t1_op7ld2d", "author": "/u/OuiGotTheFunk", "updated": "2026-06-01T22:19:21+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu626q/markets_are_up_for_everyone_dont_post_about_it/op7ld2d/", "content": "After reading you post I realized my self worth has hit all time highs and my condescension is hitting milestones I never imagined. Yesterday I hit my milestone of finally filling that empty hole inside me." }, { "id": "t1_op7luaw", "author": "/u/Top_Objective9877", "updated": "2026-06-01T22:21:54+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu626q/markets_are_up_for_everyone_dont_post_about_it/op7luaw/", "content": "Yeah, thanks for asking. I’ve actually reached an old milestone that I had reached, and life storm happened and ended up far from my goal. 2 years later I’ve clawed back and I feel confident I’ll reach my old goal just a little bit off schedule, but it’s certainly enough I’d be willing to write home about it! Thanks for caring" }, { "id": "t1_op7pyvl", "author": "/u/Shoddy_Ad7511", "updated": "2026-06-01T22:44:09+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu626q/markets_are_up_for_everyone_dont_post_about_it/op7pyvl/", "content": "Factually wrong. My portfolio is down the last 5 years" }, { "id": "t1_op7q4ql", "author": "/u/vshun", "updated": "2026-06-01T22:45:02+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu626q/markets_are_up_for_everyone_dont_post_about_it/op7q4ql/", "content": "Would upvoter again if I could. Meaningful discussions disappeared, mostly beginners posting the questions about their particular circumstances that help no one else again and again. Though it now became a problem for whole reddit. I remember when we had discussion like pros and cons of Roth conversion vs 0 cap gains tax that would probably be efit more than original poster (or maybe it was on /r/bogleheads )" }, { "id": "t1_op7s7gu", "author": "/u/QuesoChef", "updated": "2026-06-01T22:56:20+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu626q/markets_are_up_for_everyone_dont_post_about_it/op7s7gu/", "content": "Then post stuff like that. I don’t have time to come up with original, compelling content. But if your have ideas, post away. I’m sure people will reply." }, { "id": "t1_op7q7c8", "author": "/u/Alarming-Mix3809", "updated": "2026-06-01T22:45:25+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu626q/markets_are_up_for_everyone_dont_post_about_it/op7q7c8/", "content": "Ok Mr buzzkill" }, { "id": "t1_op7qlbd", "author": "/u/Haisha4sale", "updated": "2026-06-01T22:47:32+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu626q/markets_are_up_for_everyone_dont_post_about_it/op7qlbd/", "content": "I read your post and I feel deal inside. I also felt dead inside before I read your post." }, { "id": "t1_op8oaqd", "author": "/u/Historical_Air_8997", "updated": "2026-06-02T02:02:36+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu626q/markets_are_up_for_everyone_dont_post_about_it/op8oaqd/", "content": "Fun fact I did hit a personal milestone today, $200k invested at 28. A bit bummed my wife beat me to $200k by about 4 months (tho she’s 30). I don’t feel dead inside though, I work hard but I have a good life. Since last year I’ve been noticing the benefits of saving a lot in my early years, it really helped me understand that some of the “sacrifices” I made to save 30-50% are worth it.\n I like hearing peoples milestone updates because it helps me stay the course in the days I do have doubts.\n THANK YOU FOR YOUR ATTENTION TO THIS MATTER!" }, { "id": "t1_op8rr5m", "author": "/u/Expert_B4229", "updated": "2026-06-02T02:23:29+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu626q/markets_are_up_for_everyone_dont_post_about_it/op8rr5m/", "content": "Hush." }, { "id": "t1_op98yyj", "author": "/u/1question10answers", "updated": "2026-06-02T04:16:30+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu626q/markets_are_up_for_everyone_dont_post_about_it/op98yyj/", "content": "Why the fuck are you so mad that others are succeeding" }, { "id": "t1_op9nr9n", "author": "/u/pasta-davinci", "updated": "2026-06-02T06:09:36+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu626q/markets_are_up_for_everyone_dont_post_about_it/op9nr9n/", "content": "My portfolio reached $500k but I feel so poor." }, { "id": "t1_op8drlf", "author": "/u/Mister-ellaneous", "updated": "2026-06-02T00:59:39+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu626q/markets_are_up_for_everyone_dont_post_about_it/op8drlf/", "content": "And you needed to post this?" }, { "id": "t1_op8u3om", "author": "/u/TinySmolCat", "updated": "2026-06-02T02:38:01+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu626q/markets_are_up_for_everyone_dont_post_about_it/op8u3om/", "content": "OP, are you jealous or insecure cuz everyone is winning and you are not?\n It is ok, there are resources for people like you. You are not alone, OK bro?" }, { "id": "t1_op8zwmj", "author": "/u/Bitter-Variation-151", "updated": "2026-06-02T03:15:04+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu626q/markets_are_up_for_everyone_dont_post_about_it/op8zwmj/", "content": "I'm fire bro. Richer than ever. Get help." }, { "id": "t1_op922s8", "author": "/u/TinySmolCat", "updated": "2026-06-02T03:29:26+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu626q/markets_are_up_for_everyone_dont_post_about_it/op922s8/", "content": "Just read your main post bro. Do normal happy nice people talk like this? Ask yourself.\n Whatever issues you have, just remember, you are not alone." }, { "id": "t1_op96seq", "author": "/u/Bitter-Variation-151", "updated": "2026-06-02T04:01:23+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu626q/markets_are_up_for_everyone_dont_post_about_it/op96seq/", "content": "Your mind goes to dark places as a default I sense. It's ok. There is help for you." }, { "id": "t1_op8xkw1", "author": "/u/HalfwaydonewithEarth", "updated": "2026-06-02T02:59:52+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu626q/markets_are_up_for_everyone_dont_post_about_it/op8xkw1/", "content": "You sound jealous." }, { "id": "t1_op9avmq", "author": "/u/Elguapo1980z", "updated": "2026-06-02T04:30:09+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu626q/markets_are_up_for_everyone_dont_post_about_it/op9avmq/", "content": "This post is somehow more useless than those posts referred to." }, { "id": "t1_opao7t2", "author": "/u/swhalen17", "updated": "2026-06-02T11:08:43+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu626q/markets_are_up_for_everyone_dont_post_about_it/opao7t2/", "content": "What a loser" }, { "id": "t1_op8heb8", "author": "/u/troidem", "updated": "2026-06-02T01:21:05+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu626q/markets_are_up_for_everyone_dont_post_about_it/op8heb8/", "content": "You shouldnt post this either lol" }, { "id": "t1_op8kz0r", "author": "/u/pablotothek", "updated": "2026-06-02T01:42:33+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu626q/markets_are_up_for_everyone_dont_post_about_it/op8kz0r/", "content": "Can i still post my loss porn?" }, { "id": "t1_op8lnoy", "author": "/u/somToph", "updated": "2026-06-02T01:46:42+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu626q/markets_are_up_for_everyone_dont_post_about_it/op8lnoy/", "content": "Hit $50M today.\n My grand mother came to this country with $2 in her pocket and a watch from my great grandfather. She mopped floors, milled flour, raised cattle. Then she took a loan from a wealthy merchant to buy a convenience store. She worked the cash register, operated the store, swept the floors. Then the stock market crashed. She lost everything. The store. Her house. Her stable. She met a stone mason. They married and had my mom. All three of them worked at my grand father’s stone mason shop. Even my mom. Right after she was born. They dollar cost averaged every penny they earned. They ate the left over stones that wouldn’t sell. My mother grew up. Met another stone mason. Had me. Opened a Roth account for me. Together they ate more left over stones and dollar cost averaged every penny. 309 pennies every day. For forty years. Winters came. Summers came. And the math mathed. It kept mathing.\n Today, I have $50M. I wonder how much the $2 my grand mother came to this country with would have compounded to today. That’s all I think about. Compound math. You know what else I think about? The poor soul with so much time who actually read this whole post, expecting a climax." } ] }, { "source": "r/Fire hot", "id": "t3_1tv05qa", "title": "How to mentally prepare for FIRE", "author": "/u/InedibleApplePi", "updated": "2026-06-02T18:43:47+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tv05qa/how_to_mentally_prepare_for_fire/", "content": "For those of you who are close or who have already FIREd, what mental preparations did you have to make before pulling the trigger?\n With this insane rally in stocks, I've shot past my FIRE target and with my RSU vests for the rest of this year it seems like I'll be able to comfortably pull the trigger.\n But rather than giving me peace, it's giving me all sorts of stress and anxiety, I feel like the dog that's finally caught the car and doesn't know what to do next.\n What did you find to be helpful and or what are things you wouldn't recommend me doing?\n submitted by /u/InedibleApplePi\n [link] [comments]", "contentHtml": "

For those of you who are close or who have already FIREd, what mental preparations did you have to make before pulling the trigger?

With this insane rally in stocks, I've shot past my FIRE target and with my RSU vests for the rest of this year it seems like I'll be able to comfortably pull the trigger.

But rather than giving me peace, it's giving me all sorts of stress and anxiety, I feel like the dog that's finally caught the car and doesn't know what to do next.

What did you find to be helpful and or what are things you wouldn't recommend me doing?

submitted by /u/InedibleApplePi
[link] [comments]", "comments": [ { "id": "t1_opdcqnj", "author": "/u/Zphr", "updated": "2026-06-02T18:49:55+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tv05qa/how_to_mentally_prepare_for_fire/opdcqnj/", "content": "It's just money.\n If you have a meaningful, happy life outside of work and the pursuit of money, then you'll likely be fine.\n If you don't, then either start building one very quickly or consider working longer until you do.\n Think back to childhood. If you have friends, family, hobbies/interests, a dog, a sweetheart, then summers are a wonderful thing filled with fun and valuable future memories. If you have none of those things, then summers can be boring, lonely, interminable, and miserable.\n This summer you are facing ideally never ends, so prepare well before it starts." }, { "id": "t1_opdd6ih", "author": "/u/InedibleApplePi", "updated": "2026-06-02T18:51:52+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tv05qa/how_to_mentally_prepare_for_fire/opdd6ih/", "content": "Thanks Zphr, agreed it's just money, but money is what makes all of the above possible (without having to work a job)\n While I'm excited about the possibility of an endless summer, at the same time the uncertainties of the future seem much more uncertain." }, { "id": "t1_opde2if", "author": "/u/Zphr", "updated": "2026-06-02T18:55:46+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tv05qa/how_to_mentally_prepare_for_fire/opde2if/", "content": "Life is always uncertain whether you have a job or not. You have presumably done all of your planning and testing in alignment with your personal risk tolerance and assumptions about the future. You're either there or not.\n No harm in building up some buffer, but at some point you have to jump and trust in yourself to handle gracefully whatever comes next." }, { "id": "t1_ope7m8j", "author": "/u/Mr--Clean--Ass-Naked", "updated": "2026-06-02T21:11:31+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tv05qa/how_to_mentally_prepare_for_fire/ope7m8j/", "content": "the thing is i have a million things i'd love to buy with money lol well now that I officially made it i'm going to do exactly that..........which is donate to charities!" }, { "id": "t1_opdfpe6", "author": "/u/nak00010101", "updated": "2026-06-02T19:02:57+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tv05qa/how_to_mentally_prepare_for_fire/opdfpe6/", "content": "I've got an engineering brain, that is prone to over analysis and over planning.\n I was neck deep in savings mode, when my wife received an inheritance that pulled our date forward by about 3 years. This resulted in a pretty high level of PANIC, because I was still focuses on getter there, not on actually doing it.\n That shift from savings to spending was not an easy transition, We are 2 years past making the decision and 18 months into retirement , but I'm still not 100% in the Retired mental space.\n I needed (and still need) multiple validations that it is OK to spend a dollar, instead of savings it. I literally have this though for even the smallest purchases.\n You've got to give yourself permission to spend at a level to enjoy some of the nicer things in life, that may of us would have never considered while in Super Saver mode." }, { "id": "t1_opdexb3", "author": "/u/alefeusch", "updated": "2026-06-02T18:59:31+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tv05qa/how_to_mentally_prepare_for_fire/opdexb3/", "content": "I didn't have to make any mental preparations. I was one foot out the door for about the last 10 years of my career. The only thing that kept me working was knowing that one day I wouldn't have to." }, { "id": "t1_opdg6b8", "author": "/u/wh0re4nickelback", "updated": "2026-06-02T19:05:03+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tv05qa/how_to_mentally_prepare_for_fire/opdg6b8/", "content": "I have 8 years to go. I'm fortunate to have my job and I like my boss, but I'm so mentally checked out.\n If you'd be so kind as to share, what advice do you have for mentally getting through the next 8 years? It feels SO. FAR. AWAY." }, { "id": "t1_opdjpvy", "author": "/u/alefeusch", "updated": "2026-06-02T19:21:09+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tv05qa/how_to_mentally_prepare_for_fire/opdjpvy/", "content": "My only advice is to stick with it because it's worth it, imo. I was in a pretty weird situation because I owned the company, I just stopped enjoying it about 5 years in. And, I actually didn't have a timeline. I didn't know much about FIRE. I just knew if I kept working my ass off to make the company as successful as possible that someday I'd hopefully sell it... which happened 15 years after I started it. So, you've got a clearer picture than I did, tbh. Just keep going, 8 years goes by faster than you think." }, { "id": "t1_opdlshl", "author": "/u/wh0re4nickelback", "updated": "2026-06-02T19:30:39+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tv05qa/how_to_mentally_prepare_for_fire/opdlshl/", "content": "Thank you!" }, { "id": "t1_opdf68q", "author": "/u/MrLuckyHaskins", "updated": "2026-06-02T19:00:36+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tv05qa/how_to_mentally_prepare_for_fire/opdf68q/", "content": "I'm struggling with this too. I'm really close. You would think this would be a good feeling, and it is, but I didn't think it would come with the anxiety I'm feeling. Every simulation and calculator I run on my plan give a ~95% success, but it's like my brain does not want to believe it." }, { "id": "t1_opdkdn5", "author": "/u/SchwarzestenKaffee", "updated": "2026-06-02T19:24:10+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tv05qa/how_to_mentally_prepare_for_fire/opdkdn5/", "content": "This is me. I gave my notice last week and I'm leaving end of June. Almost feels like other people are more excited and happy for me than I am for myself. I'm at a 99% success rate according to the models but still I worry. Wish I could remove the worrybot in my brain." }, { "id": "t1_opdtlkt", "author": "/u/InedibleApplePi", "updated": "2026-06-02T20:06:34+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tv05qa/how_to_mentally_prepare_for_fire/opdtlkt/", "content": "Ya this is exactly how I feel, I think in part because of how quickly it came. At the start of the year I would have told you I'm still a few years out, now looking at my numbers? I'm already past what I thought was my goal.\n My back of napkin math says we could make it on 3% SWR right now, but my brain doesn't want to believe it because it seems so unreal." }, { "id": "t1_opdfulk", "author": "/u/EquipmentUnlikely895", "updated": "2026-06-02T19:03:36+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tv05qa/how_to_mentally_prepare_for_fire/opdfulk/", "content": "I am just ready to not think about work. When the day comes, and I am bored, I will look for something to do. Honestly, my plan now is no plan." }, { "id": "t1_opdqnwm", "author": "/u/vasqued2", "updated": "2026-06-02T19:53:04+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tv05qa/how_to_mentally_prepare_for_fire/opdqnwm/", "content": "My journey\n Month 1: I can't believe I hit my number. There must be something wrong. The market is at an all time high. It's probably going to crash soon. I'll hold off a bit just to be safe.\n Month 3: The market didn't crash. My math is right. An independent review by a financial advisor confirmed this as well. But I like my job. I can keep going a little longer.\n Month 6: Boy, that's kind of annoying. Never noticed how much that annoyed me before, but not that big of a deal.\n Month 9: OK, more annoying. Its a good thing I don't have to work here if I don't want to.\n Month 12: I've reached my limit. This place is ridiculous. It's time.\n Month 15: Life is good." }, { "id": "t1_opddz9k", "author": "/u/camajise", "updated": "2026-06-02T18:55:23+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tv05qa/how_to_mentally_prepare_for_fire/opddz9k/", "content": "the stress and anxiety aren't going to stop. once you FIRE you'll worry about sequence of return risk, asset allocation, lifestyle upgrades, and re-evaluating your enough number once you pass FIRE.\n best advise is to stay active and busy so you worry about things less." }, { "id": "t1_opdd3he", "author": "/u/LouSevens", "updated": "2026-06-02T18:51:29+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tv05qa/how_to_mentally_prepare_for_fire/opdd3he/", "content": "I am in a holding pattern/sabbatical but have been gradually adding to my bond % and looking for the optimal balance. I want to be a little more conservative incase there is a correction/dip the next 5-7 years." }, { "id": "t1_opdg8zn", "author": "/u/ExistingPoem1374", "updated": "2026-06-02T19:05:23+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tv05qa/how_to_mentally_prepare_for_fire/opdg8zn/", "content": "I'm in year 3 of FIRED at 57, now almost 60, Wire Retired at 50 to take car of her dying mother.\n If you keep working (one more year syndrome) what will you be thinking the morning you wake up with a debilitating disease (you or partner), Parent who passed you haven't seen in months, ...\n We had planned for me at 59, but two layoffs in 18 months back in 2022 and 2023, convinced us it was time (past our FIRE number already...). SO Glad we did, as 2 things happened since I retired:\n\n- Our plans of 2-3 international month+ long trips, are now mostly not possible, due to a medical issue my wife developed 2 years ago...\n\n- My mom's 2nd husband died, and I had to spend 3 months 24/7 with her on the west coast, to get her through it, clean house and move her to an apartment near us. Could NOT have taking a 3+ month sabbatical from my then Tech Executive position.\n It's only $$, assume you have 2-3 years of expenses outside of the market/retirement accounts, follow the plan you made and GFY NOW!!!" }, { "id": "t1_opdnrzw", "author": "/u/Brandonnn_West_95", "updated": "2026-06-02T19:39:51+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tv05qa/how_to_mentally_prepare_for_fire/opdnrzw/", "content": "The funny thing about FIRE is that the finish line often feels exactly like the starting line: exciting, uncertain and slightly terrifying" }, { "id": "t1_opdqnaz", "author": "/u/Negative-Reality2763", "updated": "2026-06-02T19:52:59+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tv05qa/how_to_mentally_prepare_for_fire/opdqnaz/", "content": "the anxiety makes sense because you're trading a known structure for something undefined. work gave you a clear metric for success, and that's gone once you leave. what helped me was realizing that the financial part was actually solved, so the real work was figuring out what fills that time and gives it meaning.\n one thing i'd push back on gently is waiting for boredom to find you. that passive approach works for some people but i've seen it leave others in a weird limbo. better to have at least a few things you're curious about lined up before you quit, even if they change later. could be projects, travel, volunteering, fitness goals, whatever. the structure matters less than the fact that you chose it.\n the sequence of return risk and market anxiety won't fully go away, but it does quiet down once you're actually living on the withdrawal rate and seeing it work. right now you're still in accumulation mode mentally even though you've crossed the line. that gap is where a lot of the stress lives." }, { "id": "t1_opg0fnw", "author": "/u/Puzzleheaded-Phrase8", "updated": "2026-06-03T03:07:44+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tv05qa/how_to_mentally_prepare_for_fire/opg0fnw/", "content": "I’m in a similar position, thinking of moving our date up and freaking out about the major lifestyle change. My work is incredibly stressful and frustrating, but I am proud of my team and what we’ve built. It’s strange to imagine permanent weekends." }, { "id": "t1_opdev3n", "author": "/u/Ra_a_", "updated": "2026-06-02T18:59:14+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tv05qa/how_to_mentally_prepare_for_fire/opdev3n/", "content": "A usual answer is the change of not interacting with the work people on a daily basis and really never again, abrupt change\n It’s not bad, we all expect it, but it’s a significant change in habit\n No mental preparation needed" }, { "id": "t1_opdjrie", "author": "/u/kwakenboemel", "updated": "2026-06-02T19:21:21+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tv05qa/how_to_mentally_prepare_for_fire/opdjrie/", "content": "I am currently redding the book 'Waarom we niet gelukkiger zijn'. It talks about the stress and anxiety you are experiencing and ways you can deal with it. It's a combination of genetics and hormonen, and can, to a certain extent, be manipulated." }, { "id": "t1_opdkc3l", "author": "/u/kwakenboemel", "updated": "2026-06-02T19:23:58+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tv05qa/how_to_mentally_prepare_for_fire/opdkc3l/", "content": "Oops, I thought I was posting in r/BEFire . English translation of the book would be 'Why we aren't happier'." }, { "id": "t1_opdl3ek", "author": "/u/Adam88Analyst", "updated": "2026-06-02T19:27:26+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tv05qa/how_to_mentally_prepare_for_fire/opdl3ek/", "content": "I reached my goal 4 months ago and requested reduced working hours last month which was accepted. Now I have a transition year where I think about what I'd do if I had free time all the time. Until then I work 3 days a week and rest 4 days. You will find out eventually what your drive is in life." }, { "id": "t1_opfnvz4", "author": "/u/InedibleApplePi", "updated": "2026-06-03T01:53:49+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tv05qa/how_to_mentally_prepare_for_fire/opfnvz4/", "content": "That's great, I could definitely imagine myself continuing to work quite a bit longer if I had 4 days off each week. Being able to step down your hours is a great benefit." }, { "id": "t1_opf2i5f", "author": "/u/LongViewLogic", "updated": "2026-06-02T23:52:34+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tv05qa/how_to_mentally_prepare_for_fire/opf2i5f/", "content": "i think part of the stress comes from treating fire like one giant irreversible cliff. maybe easier to think in rehearsals: test empty weekdays, test lower structure, test what you’ll do when nobody needs you at 10am on a tuesday. the money math can say yes, but your brain still needs proof that the life actually works" }, { "id": "t1_opdf9hj", "author": "/u/joshua_rn", "updated": "2026-06-02T19:00:59+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tv05qa/how_to_mentally_prepare_for_fire/opdf9hj/", "content": "A lot of people think the hard part is building the portfolio. Turns out the hard part is building a life you actually want to live once you no longer need a job" }, { "id": "t1_opdgwrb", "author": "/u/khbuzzard", "updated": "2026-06-02T19:08:22+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tv05qa/how_to_mentally_prepare_for_fire/opdgwrb/", "content": "Figure out, in broad, high-level terms, what you want out of this next chapter of your life. What do you want your life to look like a year or two from now (or five years or ten years from now), and what kinds of things can you do to move in that direction?\n It's OK not to have everything 100% figured out on day 1. Your priorities and sense of what's possible will probably shift, anyway, once you shed the time commitments and mental baggage from work. But you don't want to be 100% flailing either. I've found that it helps a lot to have some general goals (e.g. "make more friends") to use as guide stars, and let the specifics of how to accomplish them fall into place in due course." }, { "id": "t1_opdzfao", "author": "/u/homestarrunner3700", "updated": "2026-06-02T20:33:13+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tv05qa/how_to_mentally_prepare_for_fire/opdzfao/", "content": "I am thinking about the preparation now so interested in this as well. I am for all intents and purposes 100% equities so debating if and how much I should move to cash. Also planning on seeing how to maximize my retirement contribution to the limit for this or next year." }, { "id": "t1_opegdus", "author": "/u/Bearsbanker", "updated": "2026-06-02T21:54:34+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tv05qa/how_to_mentally_prepare_for_fire/opegdus/", "content": "My backup plans had backup plans. We fired 14 months ago, it's easy, would you rather have the market skidding along 30 year lows? If it's concerning put half your portfolio in a hysa or bonds." }, { "id": "t1_opegt3c", "author": "/u/Unarmored2268", "updated": "2026-06-02T21:56:41+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tv05qa/how_to_mentally_prepare_for_fire/opegt3c/", "content": "Make sure who you are at work doesn't define you as a person. Job is just a job, a tool that makes money for living." }, { "id": "t1_opf7ueg", "author": "/u/Harmonic-Hyena", "updated": "2026-06-03T00:22:35+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tv05qa/how_to_mentally_prepare_for_fire/opf7ueg/", "content": "I am not retired but already hit my number and I am just waiting until 55 because my 401k supports the rule of 55, and using that is the least stressful strategy. Going to work has been difficult ever since I hit my number and I almost quit on several occasions.\n Like many people I saved the minimum and thought I was doing well. It was not until my wife got pregnant did I realize we were behind. We buckled down and turned things around and continued increasing when possible. My parents both died young. My dad died when I was a teenager. My goal was to make our family financially independent by the time I reached the age when my dad died, so they would have a strong footing if I died early as well. The last few years have been good to us so we have have already hit our goal. Since I am still in good health, I have no issues waiting a little longer but will be be running out that door when I turn 55. There is no telling how many good years we have left." }, { "id": "t1_opgxzjv", "author": "/u/OkEssay4173", "updated": "2026-06-03T07:14:21+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tv05qa/how_to_mentally_prepare_for_fire/opgxzjv/", "content": "Then feel more like a dog. Sleep, eat, play, sleep" } ] }, { "source": "r/Fire hot", "id": "t3_1tuw80g", "title": "Stories on Forced \"Reverse FIRE\" - anyone forced BACK into work due to market/expenses?", "author": "/u/MorningHelpful8389", "updated": "2026-06-02T16:31:38+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tuw80g/stories_on_forced_reverse_fire_anyone_forced_back/", "content": "I'm a planner. I am trying to run all possible scenarios as I work towards FIRE.\n One thing that I keep thinking is, FIRE and discussion around has a very different tone right now because the market is hitting daily highs. People are hitting their goals and planning out their retirement.\n But if your FIRE number is say, 2 million, and 6 months after you retire the market drops to 1 million - you're no longer at your FIRE number. I am confused as to how this works. Do people get forced back into work until recovery? Anyone have stories of weathering this?\n I guess a good example would be someone who chose to FIRE at the end of 2007. They would have lost 40% within the first year, meaning they no longer are starting with their "FIRE number"\n EDIT TO ADD!:\n I guess I want to clarify my question a bit - if just "having the right equity mix" to survive a downtown means that you should be totally fine if your portfolio drops from 1.6 million to 900,000 in the first year...doesn't that mean that *technically* you should be able to FIRe on 900,000 as well?\n How is someone who dropped from 1.6 million to 900,000 in year 1 different from someone who simply chooses to FIRE at 900,000?\n submitted by /u/MorningHelpful8389\n [link] [comments]", "contentHtml": "

I'm a planner. I am trying to run all possible scenarios as I work towards FIRE.

One thing that I keep thinking is, FIRE and discussion around has a very different tone right now because the market is hitting daily highs. People are hitting their goals and planning out their retirement.

But if your FIRE number is say, 2 million, and 6 months after you retire the market drops to 1 million - you're no longer at your FIRE number. I am confused as to how this works. Do people get forced back into work until recovery? Anyone have stories of weathering this?

I guess a good example would be someone who chose to FIRE at the end of 2007. They would have lost 40% within the first year, meaning they no longer are starting with their "FIRE number"

EDIT TO ADD!:

I guess I want to clarify my question a bit - if just "having the right equity mix" to survive a downtown means that you should be totally fine if your portfolio drops from 1.6 million to 900,000 in the first year...doesn't that mean that *technically* you should be able to FIRe on 900,000 as well?

How is someone who dropped from 1.6 million to 900,000 in year 1 different from someone who simply chooses to FIRE at 900,000?

submitted by /u/MorningHelpful8389
[link] [comments]", "comments": [ { "id": "t1_opcira8", "author": "/u/Bryanmsi89", "updated": "2026-06-02T16:39:35+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tuw80g/stories_on_forced_reverse_fire_anyone_forced_back/opcira8/", "content": "This is where FIRE is more than just "a number." It is a whole plan scaffolded around things like Sequence-Of-Returns-Risk (SORR), AGI and taxable income, withdrawl strategies, etc.\n If you have $2m all in the stock market and retire into a downturn, you are quite correct you are not at FIRE number anymore. In fact, a sharp downturn right as retirement starts is the single biggest risk to almost every FIRE." }, { "id": "t1_opcmrq2", "author": "/u/MorningHelpful8389", "updated": "2026-06-02T16:57:01+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tuw80g/stories_on_forced_reverse_fire_anyone_forced_back/opcmrq2/", "content": "I guess I want to clarify my question a bit - if just "having the right equity mix" to survive a downtown means that you should be totally fine if your portfolio drops from 1.6 million to 900,000 in the first year...doesn't that mean that *technically* you should be able to FIRe on 900,000 as well?\n How is someone who dropped from 1.6 million to 900,000 in year 1 different from someone who simply chooses to FIRE at 900,000?" }, { "id": "t1_opcqtmn", "author": "/u/JohnnySpot2000", "updated": "2026-06-02T17:14:36+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tuw80g/stories_on_forced_reverse_fire_anyone_forced_back/opcqtmn/", "content": "It’s different because the person choosing to FIRE at $900,000 can’t afford for that to drop to $500,000 in year 1." }, { "id": "t1_opcoa3p", "author": "/u/hmm_nah", "updated": "2026-06-02T17:03:35+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tuw80g/stories_on_forced_reverse_fire_anyone_forced_back/opcoa3p/", "content": "Dude stop copy pasting. Having the "right" equity mix means it should be almost impossible for your portfolio to drop that much. If your $2M total is 1 million in the stock market and 1 million in cash, your portfolio is not gonna drop to $900k in a year." }, { "id": "t1_opcwdob", "author": "/u/MolassesSad8089", "updated": "2026-06-02T17:38:39+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tuw80g/stories_on_forced_reverse_fire_anyone_forced_back/opcwdob/", "content": "Not at all. There’s a huge difference in having 1.6 million before a crash and having 900000 before a crash. The entire thing is based on simulated or historical back testing that is trying to answer the question, “What is the worst case scenario and can I survive it?”. This isn’t based on when you fire but how much money you have before the crash." }, { "id": "t1_opds2f2", "author": "/u/Bryanmsi89", "updated": "2026-06-02T19:59:26+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tuw80g/stories_on_forced_reverse_fire_anyone_forced_back/opds2f2/", "content": "The difference is that the person with $1.6m in your example who does 'online the downturn had $100k in cash, $200k in HYSA, and $300k in treasuries plus the $900k in stocks.\n With a 4% safe withdrawal rate assumption, $1.6m portfolio can support about $65k a year. The person above has 3+ years of full spending in cash/hysa and another $300k in treasuries as a shock absorber or even dry powder to buy MORE equities when the downturn hits.\n This person would not be forced to sell equities for 10 years if they didnt want to." }, { "id": "t1_opcn01g", "author": "/u/ElJacinto", "updated": "2026-06-02T16:58:01+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tuw80g/stories_on_forced_reverse_fire_anyone_forced_back/opcn01g/", "content": "We've been on an almost nonstop bull run for the last 17 years. So I doubt many people have experience with having to return to work due to market returns." }, { "id": "t1_opcpea6", "author": "/u/its_a_gibibyte", "updated": "2026-06-02T17:08:26+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tuw80g/stories_on_forced_reverse_fire_anyone_forced_back/opcpea6/", "content": "Yep. This sub is going to be a disaster during the next market crash. I'm expecting lots of posts asking why stocks don't always go up." }, { "id": "t1_opdpjik", "author": "/u/toodleoo77", "updated": "2026-06-02T19:47:56+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tuw80g/stories_on_forced_reverse_fire_anyone_forced_back/opdpjik/", "content": "This sub is already insufferable when the market goes down more than like 2%" }, { "id": "t1_opcvoao", "author": "/u/RedQueenWhiteQueen", "updated": "2026-06-02T17:35:37+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tuw80g/stories_on_forced_reverse_fire_anyone_forced_back/opcvoao/", "content": "Someone downvoted you, but you're not wrong. All sorts of people will claim they've been lied to about FIRE, and that it doesn't work, when it really means they didn't prepare for a downturn lasting more than a month.\n I don't know how well most people can weather an actual crash, where they market falls by 50% or more and stays that way for 5 - 15 years, but I do think everyone should have a plan for a market that is flat or drops 5-10% for 2 or 3 years, because that is normal downturn/recession behavior that statistically will happen several times over the course of several decades." }, { "id": "t1_opeaz25", "author": "/u/RIP_Soulja_Slim", "updated": "2026-06-02T21:27:42+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tuw80g/stories_on_forced_reverse_fire_anyone_forced_back/opeaz25/", "content": "Moreover, where the real risk lies is in something like 2000s market environment. The dotcom crash wasn’t a crash then recovery, it was three years of constant double digit wealth destruction. That’s three years of drawdowns with falling asset values.\n When markets did recover, they weren’t strong. You were down huge all through 04, 05, and most of 06, finally recovering by 07. Then obviously everyone knows what happened.\n You don’t even need a GFC to capend the decade, if someone retires and sees something similar to 00-07 they’re gonna be in trouble." }, { "id": "t1_opeeee1", "author": "/u/Raging-Totoro", "updated": "2026-06-02T21:44:37+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tuw80g/stories_on_forced_reverse_fire_anyone_forced_back/opeeee1/", "content": "It frustrates me to no end that people don't get this. They pretend like this is some outdated ancient voodoo, when it is fairly recent and very likely applies to our current climate.\n They talk about "these companies are solid, tho. They're healthy and growing profits". But so was Intel and Cisco and JDS Uniphase and CGMI. They're healthy until they're not.\n I hope people read posts like yours and study what can and will happen, so they know." }, { "id": "t1_opgivwb", "author": "/u/Wise_Relationship436", "updated": "2026-06-03T05:14:47+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tuw80g/stories_on_forced_reverse_fire_anyone_forced_back/opgivwb/", "content": "Right, my intuit stock was and is a straight banger. It’s just that the market sentiment went from AI will make intuit unstoppable to AI will make intuit obsolete in less than a few months. 50% down." }, { "id": "t1_opeh2vu", "author": "/u/Bearsbanker", "updated": "2026-06-02T21:58:04+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tuw80g/stories_on_forced_reverse_fire_anyone_forced_back/opeh2vu/", "content": "I'll revel in the panicking, then I'll get tired of the stoopitity, then I'll not get on here." }, { "id": "t1_opcz95n", "author": "/u/MolassesSad8089", "updated": "2026-06-02T17:50:59+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tuw80g/stories_on_forced_reverse_fire_anyone_forced_back/opcz95n/", "content": "There have been lots of crashes in the last 17 years. A crash isn’t that bad. It should take something like a 10 year “lost decade” to force you back to work." }, { "id": "t1_opfiqdc", "author": "/u/SwissChzMcGeez", "updated": "2026-06-03T01:24:12+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tuw80g/stories_on_forced_reverse_fire_anyone_forced_back/opfiqdc/", "content": ""Why would anyone want bonds? Why would you ever invest in international stock?"" }, { "id": "t1_opfkbtl", "author": "/u/its_a_gibibyte", "updated": "2026-06-03T01:33:19+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tuw80g/stories_on_forced_reverse_fire_anyone_forced_back/opfkbtl/", "content": ""I was told to exclusively invest in US equities because they always go up, and nothing could ever impact US dominance"." }, { "id": "t1_opfzvfd", "author": "/u/ChaoticAmoebae", "updated": "2026-06-03T03:04:12+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tuw80g/stories_on_forced_reverse_fire_anyone_forced_back/opfzvfd/", "content": "No" }, { "id": "t1_opesu9j", "author": "/u/fatheadlifter", "updated": "2026-06-02T22:59:21+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tuw80g/stories_on_forced_reverse_fire_anyone_forced_back/opesu9j/", "content": "Nobody goes back to work because they have to, unless they planned poorly or did something very boneheaded." }, { "id": "t1_opcjuwo", "author": "/u/jarMburger", "updated": "2026-06-02T16:44:21+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tuw80g/stories_on_forced_reverse_fire_anyone_forced_back/opcjuwo/", "content": "The 50% drop happened during both 2000 dot com bust and 2008 GFC (not to mention 1929). That's why it's important to have a proper asset allocation. Of course, if the SWR is 1%, it doesn't really matter if the market drop by 50%. If one is using 4%, then they should go with the appropriate asset allocation (60/40 or something similar).\n The only couple I know that was forced back to work is because of healthcare cost. This is before ACA enactment and pre-existing condition tends to lead to denial of insurance in the private healthcare insurance market. One of the spouse were found to have cancer so the other has to go back to work for insurance. They re-retired after ACA was enacted." }, { "id": "t1_opclon0", "author": "/u/PlatypusTrapper", "updated": "2026-06-02T16:52:17+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tuw80g/stories_on_forced_reverse_fire_anyone_forced_back/opclon0/", "content": "Upvoting because your second paragraph is the only answer in this thread that actually answered the question." }, { "id": "t1_opduz9m", "author": "/u/mcneally", "updated": "2026-06-02T20:12:55+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tuw80g/stories_on_forced_reverse_fire_anyone_forced_back/opduz9m/", "content": "Right, you are far more likely to end up with money worries from life circumstances (divorce, marriage after FIRE, chronic medical conditions, disability, issues you need to help your kids with, etc) than market conditions, not that the latter can't happen." }, { "id": "t1_opfmreu", "author": "/u/Perennial18", "updated": "2026-06-03T01:47:20+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tuw80g/stories_on_forced_reverse_fire_anyone_forced_back/opfmreu/", "content": "Indeed. Life itself has more unpredictable moving parts than a portfolio that has been properly managed to mitigate SORR risk." }, { "id": "t1_opcmh3p", "author": "/u/L11mbm", "updated": "2026-06-02T16:55:44+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tuw80g/stories_on_forced_reverse_fire_anyone_forced_back/opcmh3p/", "content": "I just listened to an audiobook about the ACA and there were multiple examples of that same scenario in it. It's crazy that it took so long for the US to get even that and we still haven't gone further.\n Honestly, if M4A or something similar was in place, I would likely retire much sooner." }, { "id": "t1_opfsy2o", "author": "/u/JoshAllentown", "updated": "2026-06-03T02:22:48+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tuw80g/stories_on_forced_reverse_fire_anyone_forced_back/opfsy2o/", "content": "Biden's health care plan included lowering the age for Medicare to 50+ it's a relatively mainstream proposal. If that happens it's gonna be great for the FIRE crowd." }, { "id": "t1_opco3no", "author": "/u/JesusForTheWin", "updated": "2026-06-02T17:02:48+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tuw80g/stories_on_forced_reverse_fire_anyone_forced_back/opco3no/", "content": "Thanks for sharing. Any reason why they didn't go abroad for treatment at that time? Was information less transparent?" }, { "id": "t1_opcr32r", "author": "/u/Apprehensive_Log_766", "updated": "2026-06-02T17:15:45+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tuw80g/stories_on_forced_reverse_fire_anyone_forced_back/opcr32r/", "content": "I’m gonna guess that if you’re diagnosed with cancer you don’t exactly feel like uprooting your entire life and moving away from your friends and family for an indeterminate amount of time. You probably want to spend as much time in the places you love with the people you love. I suppose it depends on the severity of the disease." }, { "id": "t1_opcvun6", "author": "/u/jarMburger", "updated": "2026-06-02T17:36:21+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tuw80g/stories_on_forced_reverse_fire_anyone_forced_back/opcvun6/", "content": "A bit of both, this was in the mid 2000s, so less info available. It's not long after 9/11 so there's plenty of hesitation of going to lower cost foreign countries as US citizens. Also, their entire support network is in the US so it's quite difficult for both spouses to move away for extended period of time from said network." }, { "id": "t1_opgabt0", "author": "/u/JesusForTheWin", "updated": "2026-06-03T04:13:16+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tuw80g/stories_on_forced_reverse_fire_anyone_forced_back/opgabt0/", "content": "Ah I see. And sorry if the question seemed insensitive, just wanted to know what options could have been explored back then." }, { "id": "t1_opchbt1", "author": "/u/brianmcg321", "updated": "2026-06-02T16:33:18+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tuw80g/stories_on_forced_reverse_fire_anyone_forced_back/opchbt1/", "content": "If you retired with $2mil and had it invested 100% in the market when you retired, you were doing it wrong.\n But it’s really easy to replicate this at www.portfoliovisualizer.com .\n If you were following the 4% rule even being invested 100% in the market, you would still be fine.\n Plugging in your numbers, retiring in 2007 with $2mil, 100% total market, and withdrawing $80k the first year and adjusting for inflation, your portfolio would now be worth more than $6mil." }, { "id": "t1_opcp4p0", "author": "/u/rubbishindividual", "updated": "2026-06-02T17:07:16+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tuw80g/stories_on_forced_reverse_fire_anyone_forced_back/opcp4p0/", "content": "Why does everyone disparage 100% equity portfolios, when tools like this one consistently show them as being less risky than traditional mixed portfolios over a longer retirement?\n For example, the Monte Carlo sims show a 4% withdrawal over a 50 year retirement having a 22% failure rate for a 70/30 portfolio , versus a 19% failure rate for a purely equities portfolio . Is this just a matter of mentality (people are more spooked by the thought market crashes than of slow, persistent inflation) or am I missing something bigger here?" }, { "id": "t1_opdryli", "author": "/u/grayshoehorn", "updated": "2026-06-02T19:58:57+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tuw80g/stories_on_forced_reverse_fire_anyone_forced_back/opdryli/", "content": "I think it's similar to people who prefer to invest in real estate instead of stock market. They just "feel safer" even though the actual numbers may say otherwise." }, { "id": "t1_opdt790", "author": "/u/MolassesSad8089", "updated": "2026-06-02T20:04:43+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tuw80g/stories_on_forced_reverse_fire_anyone_forced_back/opdt790/", "content": "That is very misleading. Most people aren’t shooting for a ~20% failure rate. That ~20% failure rate is worse than it sounds because people don’t retire during crashes, but those crash periods are considered part of the possible points of retirement in that probability. If you look at the 5% probability (you’ll have to add this to the intervals) the situation is reversed, with the bond portfolio offering a 2.69% swr vs 2.13% for just stocks. I do suspect these monte carlo simulations are overly pessimistic (compared to just historical) but you never know. That said, I have (so far) gone with all stocks simply because I think we are in a period where there are likely scenarios that us bonds do poorly at the same time stocks do poorly (as has already happened recently). But, to be fair, these monte carlo simulations likely take that into account." }, { "id": "t1_opfwtsk", "author": "/u/3l3v8", "updated": "2026-06-03T02:45:34+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tuw80g/stories_on_forced_reverse_fire_anyone_forced_back/opfwtsk/", "content": "Why does everyone disparage 100% equity portfolios, when tools like this one consistently show them as being less risky than traditional mixed portfolios over a longer retirement?\n Huh?\n https://testfol.io/?s=08Qm5xrW01e\n In answer to the OP's question: Get a better portfolio so you can weather the storm..." }, { "id": "t1_opci9cf", "author": "/u/OriginalPhysical5408", "updated": "2026-06-02T16:37:24+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tuw80g/stories_on_forced_reverse_fire_anyone_forced_back/opci9cf/", "content": "Portfolio visualizer is great tool for this kind of modeling, really helps seeing how different scenarios play out over time" }, { "id": "t1_opcjfqf", "author": "/u/HeyHeyImTheMonkey", "updated": "2026-06-02T16:42:31+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tuw80g/stories_on_forced_reverse_fire_anyone_forced_back/opcjfqf/", "content": "Can you explain what tool you used on that website to simulate this?" }, { "id": "t1_opckrvm", "author": "/u/Montaigne_6823", "updated": "2026-06-02T16:48:20+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tuw80g/stories_on_forced_reverse_fire_anyone_forced_back/opckrvm/", "content": "Under tools, try 'backtest portfolio' or 'backtest asset allocation'." }, { "id": "t1_opd6aoo", "author": "/u/Deferty", "updated": "2026-06-02T18:21:30+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tuw80g/stories_on_forced_reverse_fire_anyone_forced_back/opd6aoo/", "content": "Now try retiring at the top 10% of the market in 2000 before the crash. ( it took 7 years to return back to that point)" }, { "id": "t1_opdbmyd", "author": "/u/brianmcg321", "updated": "2026-06-02T18:45:01+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tuw80g/stories_on_forced_reverse_fire_anyone_forced_back/opdbmyd/", "content": "It doesn’t really matter how long it takes for the market to return. The important thing is to not run out of money. In 2000 you would still survive and you’d currently have about $1.4mil." }, { "id": "t1_opdlj6m", "author": "/u/db11242", "updated": "2026-06-02T19:29:28+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tuw80g/stories_on_forced_reverse_fire_anyone_forced_back/opdlj6m/", "content": "I think a lot of people would not feel good with their plan if their assets dropped ~m50% in the first 15 years of retirement. While it might work out in the end, you won’t know if you’re in the failure or success cohort." }, { "id": "t1_opdxerx", "author": "/u/brianmcg321", "updated": "2026-06-02T20:24:00+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tuw80g/stories_on_forced_reverse_fire_anyone_forced_back/opdxerx/", "content": "Of course, there’s a big difference running numbers through a simulator and actually living it. Definitely a gut check in real life. That’s why having a proper asset allocation in retirement is critical to help you sleep at night." }, { "id": "t1_opcmpd5", "author": "/u/MorningHelpful8389", "updated": "2026-06-02T16:56:44+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tuw80g/stories_on_forced_reverse_fire_anyone_forced_back/opcmpd5/", "content": "I guess I want to clarify my question a bit - if just "having the right equity mix" to survive a downtown means that you should be totally fine if your portfolio drops from 1.6 million to 900,000 in the first year...doesn't that mean that *technically* you should be able to FIRe on 900,000 as well?\n How is someone who dropped from 1.6 million to 900,000 in year 1 different from someone who simply chooses to FIRE at 900,000?" }, { "id": "t1_opcsnds", "author": "/u/Significant-Chest-28", "updated": "2026-06-02T17:22:35+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tuw80g/stories_on_forced_reverse_fire_anyone_forced_back/opcsnds/", "content": "Because in the first case, another huge drop from $900k to $500k is very unlikely but such a drop is very possible in the second case." }, { "id": "t1_opcsjvo", "author": "/u/rubbishindividual", "updated": "2026-06-02T17:22:09+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tuw80g/stories_on_forced_reverse_fire_anyone_forced_back/opcsjvo/", "content": "Person A would have to suffer back-to-back once in a generation market crashes to run dry. Person B is broke after just one crash. The former scenario is not impossible (hence most people playing with a 95-98% success rate), but many, many times less likely to occur." }, { "id": "t1_opcwxi7", "author": "/u/ImOnlyCakeOnceAYear", "updated": "2026-06-02T17:41:01+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tuw80g/stories_on_forced_reverse_fire_anyone_forced_back/opcwxi7/", "content": "I was thinking in the box too. This makes it a lot more clear thank you." }, { "id": "t1_opcua2w", "author": "/u/MorningHelpful8389", "updated": "2026-06-02T17:29:36+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tuw80g/stories_on_forced_reverse_fire_anyone_forced_back/opcua2w/", "content": "Thank you! I didn't think of this. The context makes sense." }, { "id": "t1_opcxbhm", "author": "/u/Hungry_Biscotti934", "updated": "2026-06-02T17:42:41+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tuw80g/stories_on_forced_reverse_fire_anyone_forced_back/opcxbhm/", "content": "Markets tend to recover quickly after a big down year and the original 4% can “usually “ be sustained. But if you retire at a peak in the market and have an 8% withdraw rate and then immediately have a 40% crash you will not be able to sustain the higher withdrawal rate which now could be 13%.\n Now if you hit your number and decide to work one more year and then the market had a 40% crash. It might be possible to still retire and take the higher withdrawal rate but it would still be risky that your timeline lines up with one of the few time the 4% SWR fails. So at that point it would make sense to see if the market recovers." }, { "id": "t1_opczeis", "author": "/u/Future-Run-8601", "updated": "2026-06-02T17:51:37+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tuw80g/stories_on_forced_reverse_fire_anyone_forced_back/opczeis/", "content": "This is also why the historical data will usually show a person who retires at the end of a recession has a SWR of 8% or more. They lost half their money but the raging bull market that followed brought them back. You just don’t know for sure what your SWR will end up until… you are at your end. The 4% rule has worked for every situation when the markets were at their very peak at the start of retirement." }, { "id": "t1_opcnz7g", "author": "/u/brianmcg321", "updated": "2026-06-02T17:02:15+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tuw80g/stories_on_forced_reverse_fire_anyone_forced_back/opcnz7g/", "content": "Not if you’re wanting $80k in income.\n $900000 will only be good for $36k in income." }, { "id": "t1_opchxvm", "author": "/u/pug_walker", "updated": "2026-06-02T16:36:00+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tuw80g/stories_on_forced_reverse_fire_anyone_forced_back/opchxvm/", "content": "Either your asset allocation is too aggressive, or you failed to plan for SORR (sequence of returns risk) by holding cash/cash equivalents." }, { "id": "t1_opd5ndt", "author": "/u/Ok_Location7161", "updated": "2026-06-02T18:18:43+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tuw80g/stories_on_forced_reverse_fire_anyone_forced_back/opd5ndt/", "content": "This is why 2-3 year cash is must. You survive long enough to recover" }, { "id": "t1_opck184", "author": "/u/Dax420", "updated": "2026-06-02T16:45:07+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tuw80g/stories_on_forced_reverse_fire_anyone_forced_back/opck184/", "content": "Well you aren't in 100% equities during retirement. Learn about bond ladders and you will find your answers." }, { "id": "t1_opcmuvz", "author": "/u/MorningHelpful8389", "updated": "2026-06-02T16:57:24+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tuw80g/stories_on_forced_reverse_fire_anyone_forced_back/opcmuvz/", "content": "I guess I want to clarify my question a bit - if just "having the right equity mix" to survive a downtown means that you should be totally fine if your portfolio drops from 1.6 million to 900,000 in the first year...doesn't that mean that *technically* you should be able to FIRe on 900,000 as well?\n How is someone who dropped from 1.6 million to 900,000 in year 1 different from someone who simply chooses to FIRE at 900,000?" }, { "id": "t1_opcps3n", "author": "/u/Dax420", "updated": "2026-06-02T17:10:06+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tuw80g/stories_on_forced_reverse_fire_anyone_forced_back/opcps3n/", "content": "Well, the person who retires with 900k at all time highs could still face a big drop tomorrow. But the person who retired on 1.6m right before the drop isn't going to be withdrawing his investments (living off his bonds instead) and presumably the market will "bounce" back long before they need to top up their bonds." }, { "id": "t1_opcszyr", "author": "/u/MorningHelpful8389", "updated": "2026-06-02T17:24:05+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tuw80g/stories_on_forced_reverse_fire_anyone_forced_back/opcszyr/", "content": "Thank you. This is a helpful answer" }, { "id": "t1_opdhkok", "author": "/u/Raging-Totoro", "updated": "2026-06-02T19:11:24+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tuw80g/stories_on_forced_reverse_fire_anyone_forced_back/opdhkok/", "content": "People obsess about their FIRE number, when the number is only a high level conceptual simplification that gets all the airplay.\n Really, a person pursuing FIRE should create a Plan that includes drawdown strategy, tax optimization and medical expense and reserve planning.\n The plan may yield a number, but it's the plan that matters, not the number itself.\n The so-called 4% rule is a fine litmus estimation tool, but is not a Plan." }, { "id": "t1_opczyhf", "author": "/u/That-SoCal-Guy", "updated": "2026-06-02T17:54:01+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tuw80g/stories_on_forced_reverse_fire_anyone_forced_back/opczyhf/", "content": "I fired at 36 and went back to work at 45 because of a divorce and moving to a VHCOL to be closer to my family." }, { "id": "t1_opcqs4l", "author": "/u/Future-Seat6728", "updated": "2026-06-02T17:14:25+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tuw80g/stories_on_forced_reverse_fire_anyone_forced_back/opcqs4l/", "content": "As others have mentioned, there probably aren’t many recent examples given the market performance in last 15+ years. I am nearing my FIRE date and am very concerned about your exact question. I believe using a bucket strategy or simply having at least 5-7 years of expenses in some sort of cash equivalents like HYSA, short term bond funds, CD ladders, etc is the best way to be prepared to weather the inevitable correction or crash. Also, being able to adjust expenses lower by 10-20% would help and some type of other income from a pension or a part time job. Even a PT job that covered 10-15% of your expenses could help significantly. Need to have margins of safety built in and flexibility to adjust so that you can weather something like this for several years. If you do those things, you hopefully can get through it without having to go back to work full time although that could be an option of last resort. Nothing is 100% fool proof." }, { "id": "t1_opcmbf0", "author": "/u/khbuzzard", "updated": "2026-06-02T16:55:02+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tuw80g/stories_on_forced_reverse_fire_anyone_forced_back/opcmbf0/", "content": "If you've calculated your FIRE number correctly, then your portfolio can withstand some amount of sequence-of-returns risk. If the market drops in a way that is within the range of things it has done in the past, then you will most likely be fine, even if your balance temporarily falls below your FIRE number." }, { "id": "t1_opcn19j", "author": "/u/MorningHelpful8389", "updated": "2026-06-02T16:58:10+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tuw80g/stories_on_forced_reverse_fire_anyone_forced_back/opcn19j/", "content": "I guess I want to clarify my question a bit - if just "having the right equity mix" to survive a downtown means that you should be totally fine if your portfolio drops from 1.6 million to 900,000 in the first year...doesn't that mean that *technically* you should be able to FIRe on 900,000 as well?\n How is someone who dropped from 1.6 million to 900,000 in year 1 different from someone who simply chooses to FIRE at 900,000?" }, { "id": "t1_opcnik9", "author": "/u/khbuzzard", "updated": "2026-06-02T17:00:14+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tuw80g/stories_on_forced_reverse_fire_anyone_forced_back/opcnik9/", "content": "Because having 900,000 when the market is at an all-time high is different from having 900,000 when the market has just dropped by 40%." }, { "id": "t1_opcos26", "author": "/u/Level-Persimmon4548", "updated": "2026-06-02T17:05:45+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tuw80g/stories_on_forced_reverse_fire_anyone_forced_back/opcos26/", "content": "If you have the right asset mix your portfolio will not fall from 1.6M to 900K in one year. The right mix means not having 100% of your assets in equities that are subject to violent fluctuations at the time of retirement." }, { "id": "t1_opcqr6x", "author": "/u/S7EFEN", "updated": "2026-06-02T17:14:18+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tuw80g/stories_on_forced_reverse_fire_anyone_forced_back/opcqr6x/", "content": ">doesn't that mean that *technically* you should be able to FIRe on 900,000 as well?\n i think people are somewhat misinterpreting this ask. yes. actually. if you are asking 'can i do 3% withdrawal rate into the most doomed market conditions, and then actually more like 5.3% once that drawdown is considered (48k on 900k)' you'd kinda be correct. 3% withdrawal rate has to be overly conservative to deal with retiring right into the most doomed market conditions possible (1929/70s/dotcom into gfc). so withdrawal rates quite a bit higher than that will work 'much of the time' it really just comes down to what failure rate (or chance of having to substantially cut spending in the initial 5/10 years) you are comfortable with.\n that being said withdrawal rate discussion always seems fairly devoid of real human spending. if you retired right into one of these market conditions you absolutely have flex expenses you can cut down on. if your 4% withdrawal rate could really be like a 2.25 or 2.5% survival rate well you can retire earlier and likely the people with >>30% savings rates could very comfortably do this for a few years if needed in exchange for a higher withdrawal rate overall." }, { "id": "t1_opcsgjy", "author": "/u/creepy-farter", "updated": "2026-06-02T17:21:45+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tuw80g/stories_on_forced_reverse_fire_anyone_forced_back/opcsgjy/", "content": "Most of the stories I’ve heard have been more about being bored rather than needing money.\n i.e. They didn’t retire to something, woke up one day realized they miss working, get a job to take up the time.\n The original study that came up with the 4% rule was an attempt to optimize your spend in all sorts of market environments. Using a 60/40 split(a common recommendation back then) they calculated all the different 30 year periods and some to come up with an optimum spending rate. 4% will survive a significant downturn with a success rate of 90%.\n If you are concerned about having to return to work maybe pad your fire number. Perhaps try to see if you can live on 3% or 3.5% for wiggle room. Nobody knows how the future looks." }, { "id": "t1_opd01ea", "author": "/u/Fanman2400", "updated": "2026-06-02T17:54:22+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tuw80g/stories_on_forced_reverse_fire_anyone_forced_back/opd01ea/", "content": "They key is to have a few years in cash and the rest equities to deal with a terrible market crash" }, { "id": "t1_opd4dim", "author": "/u/Delicious-Tutor4384", "updated": "2026-06-02T18:13:08+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tuw80g/stories_on_forced_reverse_fire_anyone_forced_back/opd4dim/", "content": "You aren't going to get many people who FIRE'd right before the financial meltdown in 2008/2009, and then essentially since then everyone's nest egg has grown over the years.\n I personally am waiting until I can either see a market correction back towards long term fundamentals, or be able to hit a 20% decline right after I retire, and also have my core near-term expenses accounted for. (Reliable car for the next 4+ years, no major renovations planned, etc.) so that I can attempt to modify my variable expenses as needed." }, { "id": "t1_opddu5n", "author": "/u/whitezhang", "updated": "2026-06-02T18:54:45+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tuw80g/stories_on_forced_reverse_fire_anyone_forced_back/opddu5n/", "content": "Everyone I know who actually FIRE’d meaning a carefully planned system built around their individual needs didn’t unfire except to keep busy, because of expensive health costs, or divorce. Know plenty of people who saw crossed the 1M mark or just decided it was ‘time’ to retire crash and burn." }, { "id": "t1_opfcu11", "author": "/u/mcflytfc", "updated": "2026-06-03T00:50:46+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tuw80g/stories_on_forced_reverse_fire_anyone_forced_back/opfcu11/", "content": "This guy over on fatfire had to due to divorce.\n https://www.reddit.com/r/fatFIRE/comments/1tv9370/any_other_people_here_defired_from_divorce/" }, { "id": "t1_opfq30e", "author": "/u/Illeazar", "updated": "2026-06-03T02:06:17+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tuw80g/stories_on_forced_reverse_fire_anyone_forced_back/opfq30e/", "content": "Not me, but I knew a guy.\n In grad school, one of my professors was a guy who was forced to come out of retirement because he ran out of money. I dont know if he was any good his first time around, but at that time, the dude was totally unfit for the job. Unable to keep up with the basic tasks, information a decade out of date, could not use computers effectively, could not begin anything before 10:00AM. Every time I was around him, I was embarrassed on his behalf. I think he understood how bad things were too, but he kept trying to push blame off onto his students at every opportunity.\n Don't be that guy. Try to just be done when youre done. But if you have to back, go back to something you can actually still do. But if you have to go back to something you can no longer do, let people help you." }, { "id": "t1_opg7c8v", "author": "/u/Temporary_Car_1462", "updated": "2026-06-03T03:53:04+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tuw80g/stories_on_forced_reverse_fire_anyone_forced_back/opg7c8v/", "content": "Reverse FIRE can be avoided by having the right asset mix heading into the retirement. 100% stock would be a disaster if market goes down 40-50%" }, { "id": "t1_opg96x0", "author": "/u/Fubbalicious", "updated": "2026-06-03T04:05:29+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tuw80g/stories_on_forced_reverse_fire_anyone_forced_back/opg96x0/", "content": "I'm 44 and am FIRE or quasi-baristaFIRE. If the market were to tank 50% tomorrow, I actually would like to go back to work so I can dump more money into the market. But with that said, I have a 2.5 year cash buffer, plus I'll get dividends from my taxable brokerage which is a sizable portion of my portfolio." }, { "id": "t1_opcu8ck", "author": "/u/Prestigious-Owl7764", "updated": "2026-06-02T17:29:23+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tuw80g/stories_on_forced_reverse_fire_anyone_forced_back/opcu8ck/", "content": "I have read that some people adjust their spending based on 4% of whatever their invested amount is at the time. If you can’t reduce your spending, then take the lowest amount you need to meet your basic expenses (let’s say $50k). Then you need $1.25M + 40%(or whatever you predict the loss could be at a given time) =$1.75M. This will ensure that even during downturns you can safely withdraw your $50k of basic expenses." }, { "id": "t1_opcvrii", "author": "/u/Training_General297", "updated": "2026-06-02T17:35:59+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tuw80g/stories_on_forced_reverse_fire_anyone_forced_back/opcvrii/", "content": "The most common recent scenario is divorce. Basically the same impact for a lot of folks.\n If you want to be covered for a 50% drop (which given the general market, I'd call a reasonable position), well, you need to build to a bigger number." }, { "id": "t1_opcx5ix", "author": "/u/Affectionate-Panic-1", "updated": "2026-06-02T17:41:58+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tuw80g/stories_on_forced_reverse_fire_anyone_forced_back/opcx5ix/", "content": "Feel like you'd see more of this during market downturns, like for example someone in 2001.\n Market downturns with very quick rebounds aren't always the case." }, { "id": "t1_opd6w72", "author": "/u/Bag_Holder_1982", "updated": "2026-06-02T18:24:08+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tuw80g/stories_on_forced_reverse_fire_anyone_forced_back/opd6w72/", "content": "Firing right before a stock downturn like 2008 would be especially bad since one might be forced to withdraw from accounts for income. The retiree would be selling securities at a low, when ideally one would want to be a buyer at those low stock prices. The only silver lining would be a well balanced portfolio with bonds that would hopefully increase in value as the stocks decrease." }, { "id": "t1_opdmme9", "author": "/u/db11242", "updated": "2026-06-02T19:34:28+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tuw80g/stories_on_forced_reverse_fire_anyone_forced_back/opdmme9/", "content": "Theoretically if you trust the 4% rule then you should be willing to retire and base your spending off of the high watermark of your assets. The fact that it dropped shortly after retiring means you may be experiencing sequence of returns risk, but in the vast majority of historical scenarios you still should be OK. Psychologically it’s really hard to do that though." }, { "id": "t1_ope8j5h", "author": "/u/asurkhaib", "updated": "2026-06-02T21:15:56+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tuw80g/stories_on_forced_reverse_fire_anyone_forced_back/ope8j5h/", "content": "How is someone who dropped from 1.6 million to 900,000 in year 1 different from someone who simply chooses to FIRE at 900,000?\n That historically large drops occur but they haven't occured back to back. Does this mean they can't? No, but they haven't and that is the historical data that is available. They're different because a large drop could occur for the 900k person tomorrow.\n A slight interesting twist on this question is are they the same if you decide to FIRE pre-drop versus post. In that case I'd argue they are, but in the post scenario you are intentionally taking on more risk that you're starting a bad sequence.\n I also haven't seen anyone talk about this, but if you are near the start and entering what looks to be a bad sequence then you might want to consider delaying." }, { "id": "t1_opehf6g", "author": "/u/Bearsbanker", "updated": "2026-06-02T21:59:48+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tuw80g/stories_on_forced_reverse_fire_anyone_forced_back/opehf6g/", "content": "If they were a follower of the 4% rule they would know the answer." }, { "id": "t1_opesgv1", "author": "/u/fatheadlifter", "updated": "2026-06-02T22:57:22+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tuw80g/stories_on_forced_reverse_fire_anyone_forced_back/opesgv1/", "content": "AKA, poor planning?" }, { "id": "t1_opfes7a", "author": "/u/NewEngland0123", "updated": "2026-06-03T01:01:46+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tuw80g/stories_on_forced_reverse_fire_anyone_forced_back/opfes7a/", "content": "I think what you are really talking about is sequence of return risk. If you have 2,3,4 years of expenses in cash then historically your portfolio can go down and then back up before you need to sell any stock." }, { "id": "t1_opgjpg8", "author": "/u/Pyrrhic_Pragmatist", "updated": "2026-06-03T05:20:58+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tuw80g/stories_on_forced_reverse_fire_anyone_forced_back/opgjpg8/", "content": "Just running numbers on this myself.. I have a large portion of funds in my Roth, which is a problem. But, I'm looking at what I can do with 200k in taxable funds. If my annually expenses are 20k/year, and I had 60k in cash (high yield savings or CDs) and had the other 140k invested in a mix of growth and dividend stocks and minimum 20k in bonds, I'm trying to figure out what my run rate would be. Ideally long enough to get to 59.5 after which I'd have Roth funds fully available.\n For various reasons I'd like to keep 50% of accessible funds in growth stocks or funds. But can I do that and still get enough useful income from the more conservative 50%, or would my balances need to be significantly higher for that to work?" }, { "id": "t1_opcltdg", "author": "/u/PlatypusTrapper", "updated": "2026-06-02T16:52:51+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tuw80g/stories_on_forced_reverse_fire_anyone_forced_back/opcltdg/", "content": "ITT: no examples but here’s why what you’re doing is wrong." }, { "id": "t1_opcp386", "author": "/u/skunimatrix", "updated": "2026-06-02T17:07:06+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tuw80g/stories_on_forced_reverse_fire_anyone_forced_back/opcp386/", "content": "My wife was going to retire but new ownership gave her 6 million reasons to stay on for a couple more years…" }, { "id": "t1_opcx3em", "author": "/u/superleaf444", "updated": "2026-06-02T17:41:43+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tuw80g/stories_on_forced_reverse_fire_anyone_forced_back/opcx3em/", "content": "Reverse fire? Wtf does that even mean." }, { "id": "t1_opcjrov", "author": "/u/someguy984", "updated": "2026-06-02T16:43:58+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tuw80g/stories_on_forced_reverse_fire_anyone_forced_back/opcjrov/", "content": "Hard to see how this would happen given how the markets have gone up." } ] }, { "source": "r/Fire hot", "id": "t3_1tugh7g", "title": "It appears expansion Medicaid will remain a viable option for most FIRE'd households despite the coming work/community engagement requirement", "author": "/u/Zphr", "updated": "2026-06-02T04:39:51+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tugh7g/it_appears_expansion_medicaid_will_remain_a/", "content": "It appears that the income qualification pathway for compliance with the new community engagement requirement for expansion Medicaid will indeed be based on MAGI, not earned income or some other income calculation. This means that FIRE'd households need only have MAGI equal to 80 hours per month of the federal minimum wage in order to be considered qualified for the community engagement requirement. That is currently only $580 per month.\n This means that expansion Medicaid will remain a viable option for the vast majority of FIRE'd households.\n Those who wish to read the full details should start on page 41 of the PDF linked below.\n Sources:\n https://www.federalregister.gov/public-inspection/current\n https://public-inspection.federalregister.gov/2026-11094.pdf\n Under new § 435.552(f)(2) and (g)(3), we establish that States must use the MAGI-based methodologies at § 435.603 when making income determinations for demonstrating community engagement. A contrary reading of the statute would require that States, after determining an individual income-eligible for the adult group, apply a separate and distinct income determination for such individuals in evaluating their demonstration of community engagement. There is no indication in section 1902(xx)(2) of the Act or elsewhere that the MAGI-based income provisions of section 1902(e)(14)(A) of the Act should not apply to the calculations under section 1902(xx)(2)(F) and (G) of the Act. Therefore, under § 435.552, we are interpreting section 1902(xx)(2)(F) and (G) of the Act in a manner that is consistent with section 1902(e)(14) of the Act. We specify that States must use the individual’s MAGI-based income as defined at § 435.603 in assessing an individual’s monthly income for the purpose of determining if an individual demonstrates community engagement under § 435.552(f) or (g).\n submitted by /u/Zphr\n [link] [comments]", "contentHtml": "

It appears that the income qualification pathway for compliance with the new community engagement requirement for expansion Medicaid will indeed be based on MAGI, not earned income or some other income calculation. This means that FIRE'd households need only have MAGI equal to 80 hours per month of the federal minimum wage in order to be considered qualified for the community engagement requirement. That is currently only $580 per month.

This means that expansion Medicaid will remain a viable option for the vast majority of FIRE'd households.

Those who wish to read the full details should start on page 41 of the PDF linked below.

Sources:

https://www.federalregister.gov/public-inspection/current

https://public-inspection.federalregister.gov/2026-11094.pdf

Under new § 435.552(f)(2) and (g)(3), we establish that States must use the MAGI-based methodologies at § 435.603 when making income determinations for demonstrating community engagement. A contrary reading of the statute would require that States, after determining an individual income-eligible for the adult group, apply a separate and distinct income determination for such individuals in evaluating their demonstration of community engagement. There is no indication in section 1902(xx)(2) of the Act or elsewhere that the MAGI-based income provisions of section 1902(e)(14)(A) of the Act should not apply to the calculations under section 1902(xx)(2)(F) and (G) of the Act. Therefore, under § 435.552, we are interpreting section 1902(xx)(2)(F) and (G) of the Act in a manner that is consistent with section 1902(e)(14) of the Act. We specify that States must use the individual’s MAGI-based income as defined at § 435.603 in assessing an individual’s monthly income for the purpose of determining if an individual demonstrates community engagement under § 435.552(f) or (g).

submitted by /u/Zphr
[link] [comments]", "comments": [ { "id": "t1_op9lrkk", "author": "/u/BushwhackRangerNW", "updated": "2026-06-02T05:53:35+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tugh7g/it_appears_expansion_medicaid_will_remain_a/op9lrkk/", "content": "I wanna Fire but it is truly BS to hand this type of subsidy out to most people in this community" }, { "id": "t1_op9npyd", "author": "/u/Cinderhazed15", "updated": "2026-06-02T06:09:18+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tugh7g/it_appears_expansion_medicaid_will_remain_a/op9npyd/", "content": "I wish we could just get onto single payer / universal healthcare already" }, { "id": "t1_opb2ukr", "author": "/u/Mental_Escape_1737", "updated": "2026-06-02T12:37:34+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tugh7g/it_appears_expansion_medicaid_will_remain_a/opb2ukr/", "content": "That's what I find frustrating about these conversations about the ACA. Other developed countries have single payer, in which case I doubt they begrudge one another for retiring early and maintaining coverage. But here in the USA, we get the worst of everything. Our healthcare system is broken an unaffordable, then they teach us to be angry/hostile toward one another when someone gets any sort of solution that works for them." }, { "id": "t1_opbemt6", "author": "/u/plawwell", "updated": "2026-06-02T13:38:14+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tugh7g/it_appears_expansion_medicaid_will_remain_a/opbemt6/", "content": "Most of those other countries are creaking under the weight of national health systems. Have you looked at what a disaster the NHS in England is or how bad it has gotten in Finland? Right now the quality of healthcare in Portugal is leading to vocal discontent about all the foreigners using their healthcare on the cheap." }, { "id": "t1_opbfosn", "author": "/u/Mental_Escape_1737", "updated": "2026-06-02T13:43:26+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tugh7g/it_appears_expansion_medicaid_will_remain_a/opbfosn/", "content": "Yes, nothing is perfect. But I have extended family in Europe and they wouldn't trade places with us on the healthcare front.\n But here we get the worst of everything - incredibly high costs, the hassle of dealing with insurance, long waits, and misery. The full price for my plan this year is around $1,400 per month (forget exactly) for a family of four with a $20,300 deductible and OOP max. How in the world is the average family supposed to afford that? There has to be a better way." }, { "id": "t1_opf8m7l", "author": "/u/i_tyrant", "updated": "2026-06-03T00:26:50+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tugh7g/it_appears_expansion_medicaid_will_remain_a/opf8m7l/", "content": "They’re “creaking under the weight” and still paying less while getting far more for their money than the US healthcare system.\n Even with all their problems it’s still a no-brainer better than what Americans have to deal with." }, { "id": "t1_opfhzf6", "author": "/u/Effective-Money-4037", "updated": "2026-06-03T01:19:54+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tugh7g/it_appears_expansion_medicaid_will_remain_a/opfhzf6/", "content": "100%, the systems in Europe are superior and have been for decades. Sometimes health care systems have issues, but Europe is far better at addressing those issues and the fixes to those issues never get reported in the United States, only the flaws.\n We have all the problems that Europe has and more and the only difference is we pay more for a badly broken and inefficient system that leaves most of us without affordable care when we need it most. Even Doctors here do not benefit from the current system anymore, but shareholders and corporate executives definitely do." }, { "id": "t1_opb8w15", "author": "/u/StrangeAd4944", "updated": "2026-06-02T13:09:34+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tugh7g/it_appears_expansion_medicaid_will_remain_a/opb8w15/", "content": "How about the inverse of it… if I want to buy health insurance without subsidy why can’t I write it off my taxes like every employer insured American? We only call things BS when we are on the short end of the stick. Subsidies are inverse taxes not welfare." }, { "id": "t1_opbbdvz", "author": "/u/Zphr", "updated": "2026-06-02T13:22:07+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tugh7g/it_appears_expansion_medicaid_will_remain_a/opbbdvz/", "content": "We aren't even allowed to pay private health insurance premiums with our own HSA dollars despite health insurance being the largest health expense most people have. That prohibition continues even into old age and Medicare supplement premiums, which is ridiculous." }, { "id": "t1_oparpqb", "author": "/u/someguy984", "updated": "2026-06-02T11:31:54+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tugh7g/it_appears_expansion_medicaid_will_remain_a/oparpqb/", "content": "Like that is just YOUR opinion man. ACA is the biggest boon the early retirement EVER." }, { "id": "t1_opb93xy", "author": "/u/LettuceFuture8840", "updated": "2026-06-02T13:10:41+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tugh7g/it_appears_expansion_medicaid_will_remain_a/opb93xy/", "content": "This is Medicaid, not ACA marketplace." }, { "id": "t1_opbauwg", "author": "/u/Zphr", "updated": "2026-06-02T13:19:30+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tugh7g/it_appears_expansion_medicaid_will_remain_a/opbauwg/", "content": "Expansion Medicaid is part of the ACA and forms the bottom tier for the program in the states that chose to expand Medicaid." }, { "id": "t1_opbbr7k", "author": "/u/someguy984", "updated": "2026-06-02T13:23:57+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tugh7g/it_appears_expansion_medicaid_will_remain_a/opbbr7k/", "content": "The expansion was created by the ACA." }, { "id": "t1_opavc85", "author": "/u/Jackms64", "updated": "2026-06-02T11:54:24+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tugh7g/it_appears_expansion_medicaid_will_remain_a/opavc85/", "content": "Not anymore…" }, { "id": "t1_opb53si", "author": "/u/Zphr", "updated": "2026-06-02T12:49:48+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tugh7g/it_appears_expansion_medicaid_will_remain_a/opb53si/", "content": "The ACA is critical to FIRE for most households below high chubby/fat assets. The subsidies are lovely, but the market reforms are what make it safe to leave the employer-sponsored insurance pools before Medicare eligibility.\n If the ACA dies and isn't replaced by something equivalent or better, then early retirement will cease to be a viable option for most people in here." }, { "id": "t1_opaexe2", "author": "/u/BuySellHoldFinance", "updated": "2026-06-02T10:00:34+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tugh7g/it_appears_expansion_medicaid_will_remain_a/opaexe2/", "content": "I agree. But I want to push back just a little. Everywhere else globally, the cost of medicine is far lower. So people that are getting the subsidy are just trying to reign in that cost to levels equivalent with the rest of the world." }, { "id": "t1_opau74x", "author": "/u/Shoddy_Ad7511", "updated": "2026-06-02T11:47:27+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tugh7g/it_appears_expansion_medicaid_will_remain_a/opau74x/", "content": "Agree but there isn’t any fair alternative for many people. The system is so broken" }, { "id": "t1_opbbzuh", "author": "/u/Walmart-Shopper-22", "updated": "2026-06-02T13:25:09+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tugh7g/it_appears_expansion_medicaid_will_remain_a/opbbzuh/", "content": "One could argue that for some FIRE'd people, this is just getting a portion of the "enormous amount of taxes they have previously paid" back. "Fairness" can be very subjective." }, { "id": "t1_opadgp0", "author": "/u/bunrieu4BLD", "updated": "2026-06-02T09:48:44+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tugh7g/it_appears_expansion_medicaid_will_remain_a/opadgp0/", "content": "why? the people pay into it." }, { "id": "t1_opah0p1", "author": "/u/SDMonkee", "updated": "2026-06-02T10:16:51+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tugh7g/it_appears_expansion_medicaid_will_remain_a/opah0p1/", "content": "It’s meant for actually poor people; not people who retired and live off assets that don’t count towards Medicaid." }, { "id": "t1_opahk57", "author": "/u/someguy984", "updated": "2026-06-02T10:20:57+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tugh7g/it_appears_expansion_medicaid_will_remain_a/opahk57/", "content": "Poverty is not a requirement for the ACA or expansion Medicaid. Maybe you wish it was for only poor people, but it was never designed that way." }, { "id": "t1_opanxhp", "author": "/u/KngLugonn", "updated": "2026-06-02T11:06:46+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tugh7g/it_appears_expansion_medicaid_will_remain_a/opanxhp/", "content": "It's not a requirement for the ACA, but since income is the measure by which eligibility is determined for subsidies, I would say the subsidies were designed for lower income folks. FIRE is fairly rare and breaks the standard assumptions. The income limits weren't set up as a game or challenge to keep you busy in retirement. They were set up to restrict this to those who needed a subsidy to be able to afford healthcare at all." }, { "id": "t1_opaopoh", "author": "/u/someguy984", "updated": "2026-06-02T11:12:06+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tugh7g/it_appears_expansion_medicaid_will_remain_a/opaopoh/", "content": "The ACA (including expansion Medicaid) was designed to provide affordable healthcare for low income people, period.\n Asset tests are specifically prohibited in the law for the Medicaid expansion group." }, { "id": "t1_opb2lcd", "author": "/u/Mental_Escape_1737", "updated": "2026-06-02T12:36:09+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tugh7g/it_appears_expansion_medicaid_will_remain_a/opb2lcd/", "content": "If that's the case, then why is the income threshold set at 400% FPL? That's almost $130,000 for a family of four this year. I wouldn't call that low income." }, { "id": "t1_opb2hur", "author": "/u/Zphr", "updated": "2026-06-02T12:35:37+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tugh7g/it_appears_expansion_medicaid_will_remain_a/opb2hur/", "content": "This is already true, but the subsidy qualification range is only "lower income" if you have some very high standards. Our family is subsidy eligible this year until MAGI hits $150,600. That's far higher than typical postFIRE spending and doesn't even account for non-MAGI funding that many folks use for regular tax optimization like Roth or managed brokerage/LTCGs." }, { "id": "t1_opaqqsf", "author": "/u/Mental_Escape_1737", "updated": "2026-06-02T11:25:38+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tugh7g/it_appears_expansion_medicaid_will_remain_a/opaqqsf/", "content": "Not really. 400% of the FPL for a family of four is almost $130,000 this year. That's not considered poor folk in many areas of the country, and many FIRE'd households have a MAGI below that without doing anything fancy." }, { "id": "t1_opawjuw", "author": "/u/KngLugonn", "updated": "2026-06-02T12:01:36+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tugh7g/it_appears_expansion_medicaid_will_remain_a/opawjuw/", "content": "You are welcome to think what you want, but I guarantee you the average American it's not thinking thank goodness we have subsidies to help out those millionaires who retire in their '30s." }, { "id": "t1_opawzqz", "author": "/u/Mental_Escape_1737", "updated": "2026-06-02T12:04:13+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tugh7g/it_appears_expansion_medicaid_will_remain_a/opawzqz/", "content": "You are welcome to think what you want as well, but the architects of the ACA did not set subsidy thresholds at poverty levels. They set them squarely in the middle class, and they intentionally did not include any asset testing." }, { "id": "t1_opbajsx", "author": "/u/KngLugonn", "updated": "2026-06-02T13:17:58+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tugh7g/it_appears_expansion_medicaid_will_remain_a/opbajsx/", "content": "I will grant that the income limits are not true poverty level. I do not believe that the exclusion of the asset test was to cover early retirees though. It was likely put there for small business owners. In no scenario does this play well with the general public." }, { "id": "t1_opbfik6", "author": "/u/Zphr", "updated": "2026-06-02T13:42:34+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tugh7g/it_appears_expansion_medicaid_will_remain_a/opbfik6/", "content": "The ACA was designed explicitly to disregard assets and early retirees were one of the original target groups, hence why there were billions of earmarked dollars set aside in the first few years to help onramp them into the program from their private employer plans. It is not an accident that HHS and the state exchanges spend money every open enrollment season that targets early retirees along with other target groups with significant assets, like small business owners and self-employed folks. The system is supposed to cover those people, which includes subsidy eligibility for those who qualify by income. The same is true even of expansion Medicaid, which Congress stripped of all asset testing. It is actually illegal now for anyone to ask asset questions under the aegis of the ACA." }, { "id": "t1_opbbl8q", "author": "/u/Mental_Escape_1737", "updated": "2026-06-02T13:23:08+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tugh7g/it_appears_expansion_medicaid_will_remain_a/opbbl8q/", "content": "I don't know about that. I am 47, so I was an adult when the ACA was being sold to the public. I remember Barack Obama selling it as a way for people to no longer be tied down to jobs just for healthcare. There is plenty of documentation that the ACA was aimed at early retirees in the national archives.\n https://obamawhitehouse.archives.gov/files/documents/health_reform_for_early_retirees.pdf\n I just googled and found a bunch of quotes of Barack Obama talking specifically about early retirees/ACA back in the day, before it was passed." }, { "id": "t1_opfro40", "author": "/u/mi3chaels", "updated": "2026-06-03T02:15:24+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tugh7g/it_appears_expansion_medicaid_will_remain_a/opfro40/", "content": "they intentionally didn't put in asset testing, because they didn't want people who had to go without employer insurance to have to raid their retirement to pay for healthcare, or people to not be able to retire before 65 because of healthcare costs.\n Were they specifically imagining people who have several million in their 40s who find a way to get super cheap excellent healthcare by manipulating where their spending money comes from? Probably not, but this is a tiny fraction of the people who use this subsidy. Most of them are self employed, or people who couldn't find a good job after getting laid off in their late 50s or early 60s due to age discrimination and decided to retire and now can actually do so comfortrably because they aren't paying 20-30k/year for health insurance, or worse, before the ACA -- not even able to buy real health insurance and at the mercy of good health until age 65 if they aweren't willing to go work 30+ hours at walmart or whoever would give them a shitty job with health insurance until then." }, { "id": "t1_opahg8g", "author": "/u/bunrieu4BLD", "updated": "2026-06-02T10:20:08+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tugh7g/it_appears_expansion_medicaid_will_remain_a/opahg8g/", "content": "isn't that what "manufacturing" your MAGI is doing to qualify for ACA subsidies? which btw i already have a plan to do when i retire this year.\n maybe i'm not as passionate about this subject as others are but ill take advantage of whats out there." }, { "id": "t1_opatdex", "author": "/u/idio242", "updated": "2026-06-02T11:42:23+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tugh7g/it_appears_expansion_medicaid_will_remain_a/opatdex/", "content": "The entire structure of fire is outlined to maximize every possible advantage the system provides. This is just another one." }, { "id": "t1_opfvaoi", "author": "/u/sjlopez", "updated": "2026-06-03T02:36:32+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tugh7g/it_appears_expansion_medicaid_will_remain_a/opfvaoi/", "content": "Maybe a hot take, but I agree. This is why we need another "Medicare for those who want it" category. Medicaid, even MAGI Medicaid, was not designed for people who have significant assets and want to stretch them out, but that's how some use it." }, { "id": "t1_opaw106", "author": "/u/rosebudny", "updated": "2026-06-02T11:58:29+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tugh7g/it_appears_expansion_medicaid_will_remain_a/opaw106/", "content": "10000% agree." }, { "id": "t1_op9xk80", "author": "/u/esteemed_juggernaut", "updated": "2026-06-02T07:31:04+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tugh7g/it_appears_expansion_medicaid_will_remain_a/op9xk80/", "content": "The 580 dollar monthly threshold is basically a free pass for anyone doing Roth conversions or living off portfolio withdrawals, which is exactly what makes this such a useful loophole for the FIRE crowd." }, { "id": "t1_op9cfut", "author": "/u/CalmLaceGirl", "updated": "2026-06-02T04:41:33+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tugh7g/it_appears_expansion_medicaid_will_remain_a/op9cfut/", "content": "So you're telling me I can work 80 hours a month at minimum wage or just do one Roth conversion and call it a day? I know which one I'm picking" }, { "id": "t1_opa7e71", "author": "/u/honeycloverxo", "updated": "2026-06-02T08:56:47+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tugh7g/it_appears_expansion_medicaid_will_remain_a/opa7e71/", "content": "The MAGI detail changes the whole conversation." }, { "id": "t1_opd5hnp", "author": "/u/Beaver-on-fire", "updated": "2026-06-02T18:18:01+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tugh7g/it_appears_expansion_medicaid_will_remain_a/opd5hnp/", "content": "Could someone chime in, and confirm that I am reading this right. If you have no job, live off of cash savings, but you do convert an IRA to Roth at the 0 tax / deductible limit of $16100, you would meet all of the requirements for $0 health insurance? The mandatory 20 hours per week of work, will in fact not be based off of literally worked hours, but rather the amount of income someone at minimum wage would earn at 20 hours? The law suggests the only catch is would be a requirement to convert on a monthly basis, and not a single conversion per year, I think." }, { "id": "t1_opd818z", "author": "/u/Zphr", "updated": "2026-06-02T18:29:13+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tugh7g/it_appears_expansion_medicaid_will_remain_a/opd818z/", "content": "Correct. This is how it has already been for more than a decade. This rule effectively preserves the status quo for FIRE'd folks rather than making expansion Medicaid harder to access, as many feared would happen.\n Pragmatically, it will vary somewhat by state in terms of the timing just as overall eligibility for expansion Medicaid does. The ACA runs off of annual data, but Medicaid uses monthly. This will not be an annual income test, but a monthly one that applies during the review period. In some states that might be a single month or two, just as baseline eligibility is. So in some cases you might need far less income.\n Of course, the above does not apply in the nine states that have not expanded Medicaid. In those states you would want to generate AGI above 100% FPL and get a mostly-free CSR Silver 94 policy." }, { "id": "t1_oparwph", "author": "/u/tiggonfire", "updated": "2026-06-02T11:33:08+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tugh7g/it_appears_expansion_medicaid_will_remain_a/oparwph/", "content": "This is great news! Thank you so much for posting!" }, { "id": "t1_opfd50r", "author": "/u/Effective-Money-4037", "updated": "2026-06-03T00:52:28+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tugh7g/it_appears_expansion_medicaid_will_remain_a/opfd50r/", "content": "Thank you for this post, your knowledge of ACA policies and how it benefits the FIRE community is excellent, as an early retiree I have options for health care even it means paying the full premium, but some years depending on my income and expenses I have qualified and have been forced into the Medicaid expansion insurance pool instead of the marketplace. It is nice to see there are ways to keep those benefits if needed." }, { "id": "t1_opcdoj3", "author": "/u/robinhoodstl", "updated": "2026-06-02T16:17:19+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tugh7g/it_appears_expansion_medicaid_will_remain_a/opcdoj3/", "content": "I can’t imagine being a multi millionaire sitting in medicaid clinic" }, { "id": "t1_opcnjs4", "author": "/u/Zphr", "updated": "2026-06-02T17:00:23+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tugh7g/it_appears_expansion_medicaid_will_remain_a/opcnjs4/", "content": "It happens. Some people simply don't have enough spending to move out of forced Medicaid qualification without artificially boosting income. Others are so heavy into post-tax earnings that they have no way to generate the mandated minimum AGI.\n Medicaid varies a lot by location, as does the ACA. In some places both suck, in others both are good, and in others still they both have redeeming qualities. ACA networks in some markets are so narrow that Medicaid is superior for that alone. Formulary is a similar issue for some." }, { "id": "t1_opfcpyg", "author": "/u/Effective-Money-4037", "updated": "2026-06-03T00:50:09+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tugh7g/it_appears_expansion_medicaid_will_remain_a/opfcpyg/", "content": "You are correct, income varies a lot in early retirement especially when there are non-taxable withdrawals made in early retirement, some early retirees do not qualify for subsidies in the ACA market place because they are not able to tap retirement fund accounts in early retirement and in fact forced into the Medicaid expansion insurance pool. It is awesome coverage and hopefully states will realize how important it is to treat people in early retirement fairly when making decisions.\n Medicaid expansion is a giant stimulus to state economies and early retirees have paid plenty of taxes themselves to support these benefits until their taxable income normalizes in early retirement." }, { "id": "t1_opaq559", "author": "/u/KngLugonn", "updated": "2026-06-02T11:21:40+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tugh7g/it_appears_expansion_medicaid_will_remain_a/opaq559/", "content": "The ACA may have been created with that in mind. However, it is not a requirement to be poor to purchase coverage under it. I understand what you are saying, but it sounds like you are arguing a point I wasn't trying to make." }, { "id": "t1_opb2wj7", "author": "/u/Zphr", "updated": "2026-06-02T12:37:51+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tugh7g/it_appears_expansion_medicaid_will_remain_a/opb2wj7/", "content": "I think you meant this for another commenter." }, { "id": "t1_opba2u7", "author": "/u/KngLugonn", "updated": "2026-06-02T13:15:35+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tugh7g/it_appears_expansion_medicaid_will_remain_a/opba2u7/", "content": "Yep. Apologies." }, { "id": "t1_opbaixc", "author": "/u/Zphr", "updated": "2026-06-02T13:17:51+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tugh7g/it_appears_expansion_medicaid_will_remain_a/opbaixc/", "content": "No worries! Happens to all of us." }, { "id": "t1_opcc61l", "author": "/u/robinhoodstl", "updated": "2026-06-02T16:10:42+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tugh7g/it_appears_expansion_medicaid_will_remain_a/opcc61l/", "content": "If you have a physician friend that will be honest with you regarding healthcare in America then i would recommend you discuss this if you’re interested. I have been in medicine for 30 years and the real honest discussion about healthcare won’t be said in public. I come from a family of physicians multiple generations. We have complicated healthcare in USA and that result in short paragraphs here or there" }, { "id": "t1_opcm8d0", "author": "/u/Zphr", "updated": "2026-06-02T16:54:39+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tugh7g/it_appears_expansion_medicaid_will_remain_a/opcm8d0/", "content": "I don't understand what you mean. The ACA and expansion Medicaid have been in extensive use by FIRE folks for more than a decade. This rule simply means a continuation of the status quo for the FIRE community rather than a change some had feared.\n Unless you mean the pros/cons of Medicaid versus ACA, in which case I definitely agree. Both can and do vary dramatically by both state and county. Research on one's local market is essential." } ] }, { "source": "r/Fire hot", "id": "t3_1tu1dlc", "title": "My 2M went up to 3M after I FIRE’d", "author": "/u/SquareStork", "updated": "2026-06-01T18:34:44+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu1dlc/my_2m_went_up_to_3m_after_i_fired/", "content": "After I FIRE’d my 2M went up to 3M in one year. This is more money than I ever made in my professional career. About 2/3 of my stocks is in index funds and 1/3 is in big tech. All held longer than a year. Should I consider selling to lock in the profits? Any advice?\n Edit to add: I have 75% stocks, 20% bonds and 5% cash\n submitted by /u/SquareStork\n [link] [comments]", "contentHtml": "

After I FIRE’d my 2M went up to 3M in one year. This is more money than I ever made in my professional career. About 2/3 of my stocks is in index funds and 1/3 is in big tech. All held longer than a year. Should I consider selling to lock in the profits? Any advice?

Edit to add: I have 75% stocks, 20% bonds and 5% cash

submitted by /u/SquareStork
[link] [comments]", "comments": [ { "id": "t1_op6doae", "author": "/u/deeare73", "updated": "2026-06-01T18:46:53+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu1dlc/my_2m_went_up_to_3m_after_i_fired/op6doae/", "content": "Is it really the power of compounding? Isn’t it more the market on a huge bull run?" }, { "id": "t1_op6jv8q", "author": "/u/asanano", "updated": "2026-06-01T19:21:45+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu1dlc/my_2m_went_up_to_3m_after_i_fired/op6jv8q/", "content": "Market on a huge everyone-might-have-lost-their-damn-minds-bull run" }, { "id": "t1_op6ki5u", "author": "/u/onehotoneshot", "updated": "2026-06-01T19:24:50+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu1dlc/my_2m_went_up_to_3m_after_i_fired/op6ki5u/", "content": "Why doesn’t everyone just have 2MM smack dab during a historic bull run\n Are they stupid" }, { "id": "t1_op6xrhp", "author": "/u/Hefty-Average2899", "updated": "2026-06-01T20:25:17+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu1dlc/my_2m_went_up_to_3m_after_i_fired/op6xrhp/", "content": "A lot of people I know didn’t even try to have financially secure parents to inherit an estate from. Fools." }, { "id": "t1_op7bpfn", "author": "/u/ThereforeIV", "updated": "2026-06-01T21:30:16+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu1dlc/my_2m_went_up_to_3m_after_i_fired/op7bpfn/", "content": "How many here do you think have actually inherited what they have???\n I started mopping floors for a dime above min wage, a quarter of a century of hard work and wise decision making later, I'm a millionaire." }, { "id": "t1_op7t36v", "author": "/u/NC_JBL", "updated": "2026-06-01T23:01:09+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu1dlc/my_2m_went_up_to_3m_after_i_fired/op7t36v/", "content": "I’d genuinely like to know. Even if they don’t inherit wealth, having a stable home to fall back on makes a huge difference vs no help/stability, especially early on in life." }, { "id": "t1_opbq5yi", "author": "/u/gurney__halleck", "updated": "2026-06-02T14:33:07+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu1dlc/my_2m_went_up_to_3m_after_i_fired/opbq5yi/", "content": "honestly the biggest advantage I've had in life was being a chronically online redditor. I'm not even joking. I learned so much and gained so much motivation and conviction in investing because of it. I'd never be where I was today if it wasn't for reddit" }, { "id": "t1_opbxqnw", "author": "/u/NC_JBL", "updated": "2026-06-02T15:07:29+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu1dlc/my_2m_went_up_to_3m_after_i_fired/opbxqnw/", "content": "There is a lot to learn on this app, that’s for sure. Just have to sift through the bs and the trolls." }, { "id": "t1_opfpmq4", "author": "/u/x21wing", "updated": "2026-06-03T02:03:43+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu1dlc/my_2m_went_up_to_3m_after_i_fired/opfpmq4/", "content": "Those factors can be helpful, but how about this one. I grew up poor but stable except for an alcoholic dad. My wife grew up poor but with an abusive mother who left her alone often for days at a time as young as 5 and kicked her out at 16. We are late 40s early 50s and could retire now with no debt, several M in retirement, and 1M cash and brokerage. no inheritance, no financial support from anyone." }, { "id": "t1_op7uqxe", "author": "/u/ThereforeIV", "updated": "2026-06-01T23:10:18+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu1dlc/my_2m_went_up_to_3m_after_i_fired/op7uqxe/", "content": "Says who?\n Sorry if your parents were terrible; but having a stable family is actually supposed to be the baseline not an advantage.\n You can also get "help" from friends, church, and dozens of charities; that doesn't change the biggest factor which is the decisions you make.\n I was the wealthiest member of my family in my 30s because I made the decisions that built wealth." }, { "id": "t1_op82vlh", "author": "/u/NC_JBL", "updated": "2026-06-01T23:55:56+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu1dlc/my_2m_went_up_to_3m_after_i_fired/op82vlh/", "content": "Says me. You don’t think it’s way easier to take a risk if you got something to fall back on if it fails? That’s why it’s easier to make money when you have money. As someone who had 0 help from family (did sleep on friends couches a lot) and 0 dollars, and now has several M, it was way easier to make the 2nd and 3rd million than it was the first simply because there was no longer a fear of homelessness. If you start without that fear, that’s a huge advantage." }, { "id": "t1_op8ulkn", "author": "/u/Pretty-Balance-Sheet", "updated": "2026-06-02T02:41:07+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu1dlc/my_2m_went_up_to_3m_after_i_fired/op8ulkn/", "content": "It's mentally and emotionally empowering. Plus there's a lot of knowledge that gets shared.\n If a kid grows up in a house where they believe upward mobility is possible, where calculated risks can be very rewarding, and with the knowledge that frugality paired with investing are the real foundation, they have a far better chance.\n Public education isn't doing anyone any favors in that regard, seeing the results first hand at home is where the impact is real." }, { "id": "t1_opapswz", "author": "/u/PghLandlord", "updated": "2026-06-02T11:19:25+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu1dlc/my_2m_went_up_to_3m_after_i_fired/opapswz/", "content": "I don't disagree with the spirit of what you're saying as it does make sense. But i wanted to offer a counterpoint I've noticed about risk appetite as you grow your assets.\n I'm a real estate investor. When I was broke and in my 20s i didn't think twice about going "all in" on an acquisition. By that i mean, i owned a starter home and was able to get a HELOC agaisnt my house for more than i knew it was worth (this was 2006-7 when all you needed was an SS# and a smile to get a loan). I'm in a cheap market so to be clear the house I'm talking about I purchased for 60k with almost nothing down, did some improvements myself and got a 30k heloc (3 years after buying it). I.e. i owed more than it could sell for.\n I would max out that HELOC, plus use every penny i had saved (think emergency fund) to acquire a property and then max out multiple credit cards to rehab them. Didnt even think twice about it.\n I figured who cares worst case i lose this house that i didn't have a bunch of equity in anyways.\n Now.... ~25 years later i would never run that thin. Now i have built wealth and the LAST thing i want to do is screw up what I've got.\n My point is - i felt way more willing to bet it all when i had nothing to lose." }, { "id": "t1_opbwt6f", "author": "/u/NC_JBL", "updated": "2026-06-02T15:03:18+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu1dlc/my_2m_went_up_to_3m_after_i_fired/opbwt6f/", "content": "That’s valid and I’m in the same position. To me the key distinction is “nothing to lose” is very different for someone with a safety net vs someone without it. I’d risk it all if I didn’t have much money and still have a place to sleep at night. Harder to take that risk if the place is under a bridge." }, { "id": "t1_op8376p", "author": "/u/NC_JBL", "updated": "2026-06-01T23:57:47+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu1dlc/my_2m_went_up_to_3m_after_i_fired/op8376p/", "content": "I 100% agree a stable family should be the baseline." }, { "id": "t1_op7ikgz", "author": "/u/salsanacho", "updated": "2026-06-01T22:04:38+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu1dlc/my_2m_went_up_to_3m_after_i_fired/op7ikgz/", "content": "Same, a couple decades of saving and investing will result in a pretty nice nest egg. And the point of all this is to have money in the market, no matter where you're starting from." }, { "id": "t1_op7r7wb", "author": "/u/ThereforeIV", "updated": "2026-06-01T22:50:57+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu1dlc/my_2m_went_up_to_3m_after_i_fired/op7r7wb/", "content": "The entire inherited wealth thing is mostly such a silly myth in America.\n The number of families with actual multigenerational wealth is so small you could probably count them on your fingers.\n The percentage of millionaires who inherited their wealth is so tiny:\n\n- only 3% of American millionaires inherited more than $1MM\n- only 10% of American millionaires inherited more than $100k And that's data that's a decade old, plenty more market investors became millionaires since then.\n Likely over 90% of American millionaires today got no significant money inheritance.." }, { "id": "t1_op86st0", "author": "/u/_Mulberry__", "updated": "2026-06-02T00:18:36+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu1dlc/my_2m_went_up_to_3m_after_i_fired/op86st0/", "content": "The only thing I've "inherited" so far has been my Nana's old Griswold cast iron skillet. She's still alive, she just wanted to make sure my mom didn't try to keep it after she died. As far as I'm concerned, Nana's old skillet is better than any million dollar inheritance 😂" }, { "id": "t1_ophi5ll", "author": "/u/mthockeydad", "updated": "2026-06-03T10:07:56+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu1dlc/my_2m_went_up_to_3m_after_i_fired/ophi5ll/", "content": "I have a Griswold Dutch oven from my grandmother.. and I believe it was her mom’s" }, { "id": "t1_ophk9ax", "author": "/u/_Mulberry__", "updated": "2026-06-03T10:24:02+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu1dlc/my_2m_went_up_to_3m_after_i_fired/ophk9ax/", "content": "I love that historical connection. Mine was also originally my great grandmother's. It's so cool to have a fully functional family heirloom" }, { "id": "t1_op9tq17", "author": "/u/Clear_Butterscotch_4", "updated": "2026-06-02T06:58:40+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu1dlc/my_2m_went_up_to_3m_after_i_fired/op9tq17/", "content": "Because people's egos get bruised if they see people in a better position than them. They rationalize it by dismissing people's achievements and say "they cheated"." }, { "id": "t1_op92uu7", "author": "/u/NotABillionarie", "updated": "2026-06-02T03:34:37+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu1dlc/my_2m_went_up_to_3m_after_i_fired/op92uu7/", "content": "Yeah but any inherited money makes a difference when compounded so even 10k. Ofc the age when you receive it, also matters for the compounding but still, family contacts, nepotism has probably been used as a leverage to make that 10k grow faster.\n You make it sound like as if majority of wealthy individuals struggled and become self-made millionaires." }, { "id": "t1_opb2d1b", "author": "/u/ThereforeIV", "updated": "2026-06-02T12:34:53+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu1dlc/my_2m_went_up_to_3m_after_i_fired/opb2d1b/", "content": "You think that inheriting $10k at age 65 is going to make a difference? Really?\n You don't get an inheritance when you're young.\n In America, you usually get an inheritance after you're already retired." }, { "id": "t1_opdwonh", "author": "/u/i_tyrant", "updated": "2026-06-02T20:20:43+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu1dlc/my_2m_went_up_to_3m_after_i_fired/opdwonh/", "content": "Some do get the inheritance when they’re young, actually, or have it put in an invested trust for them (which is the same thing for this argument).\n Did you forget grandparents exist (and die)?" }, { "id": "t1_op9324e", "author": "/u/Snif3425", "updated": "2026-06-02T03:35:59+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu1dlc/my_2m_went_up_to_3m_after_i_fired/op9324e/", "content": "I’d like to see where that data comes from. But even if true there are many types of inter generational wealth: providing a good education, real estate, networking/nepotism, etc.\n Saying that the number of families with multigenerational wealth, in ANY form being so small you “could count them on your fingers” is quite hyperbolic. Or maybe hypobalic, in this case. ;)" }, { "id": "t1_opbs2vh", "author": "/u/ThereforeIV", "updated": "2026-06-02T14:41:52+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu1dlc/my_2m_went_up_to_3m_after_i_fired/opbs2vh/", "content": "First, the days comes from surveys of millionaires. There's not many done, but they all seem to age in the results. The vast majority of millionaires in America became millionaires by working normal jobs, living frugally, investing consistently, paying off their home mortgage, driving older cars, etc... It's all really basic and boring.\n Second, no actually, what are you even talking about.\n\n- education? The vast majority of American millionaires went to public schools and local college (if any college at all). I didn't even graduate high school, and I went to LSU paying my own way.\n- Real estate? Inheriting an old house that you have to split between siblings in your late 60s is the win you seen to think it is. My dad inherited a third if a really odd host that needed work, he had to take out a loan to buy out his siblings; the rent revenue barely covers the loan, insurance, taxes, maintenance, and trying to fix it up; basically a net headache.\n- Nepo? The vast majority of American millionaires are first generation millionaires. My PawPaw was a carpenter, my dad worked at the post office; what networking. There's a saying "in America, wraith rarely survives three generations", because that's true. There are very few examples of multigenerational wealth. The overwhelming vast majority of wealthy Americans are first or second generation wealthy.\n My great grandfather was a field hand picking cotton. I started at age 16 mopping floors at a grocery store, then a carpenter building houses, now I'm an engineer with over $1MM in retirement portfolio.\n If you are chronically poor in America, it is likely mostly because of your own decision making." }, { "id": "t1_opcadek", "author": "/u/Snif3425", "updated": "2026-06-02T16:02:52+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu1dlc/my_2m_went_up_to_3m_after_i_fired/opcadek/", "content": "Wow. Okay dude. You’re amazing with your 1 million dollars and anyone with only 900,000 is 10 percent less of a person than you. We get it. lol." }, { "id": "t1_ophfhz0", "author": "/u/eh63tre", "updated": "2026-06-03T09:46:43+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu1dlc/my_2m_went_up_to_3m_after_i_fired/ophfhz0/", "content": "Most people who own their home in HCOL areas in America today are millionnaires." }, { "id": "t1_op7td78", "author": "/u/StockedUpOnBeef", "updated": "2026-06-01T23:02:42+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu1dlc/my_2m_went_up_to_3m_after_i_fired/op7td78/", "content": "I’m going to inherit ~10-15M. Is that good?" }, { "id": "t1_op7tyj5", "author": "/u/ThereforeIV", "updated": "2026-06-01T23:05:59+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu1dlc/my_2m_went_up_to_3m_after_i_fired/op7tyj5/", "content": "If true, and if it happens; then that makes you one of the 3%.\n Btw, I've known one or two from college with rich parents who thought they were going to inherit big money only to find out the money for lost long before inheritance time...\n The college student who picked degree path based on thinking parents money had them covered; some of those didn't end well...lol" }, { "id": "t1_op91czh", "author": "", "updated": "2026-06-02T03:24:39+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu1dlc/my_2m_went_up_to_3m_after_i_fired/op91czh/", "content": "[deleted]" }, { "id": "t1_opcwtbn", "author": "/u/Working-Active", "updated": "2026-06-02T17:40:32+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu1dlc/my_2m_went_up_to_3m_after_i_fired/opcwtbn/", "content": "I'm sure now it's even a lot less since Bill Perkins book "Die with Zero" became popular." }, { "id": "t1_op8t5ef", "author": "/u/Pretty-Balance-Sheet", "updated": "2026-06-02T02:32:04+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu1dlc/my_2m_went_up_to_3m_after_i_fired/op8t5ef/", "content": "Most people posting here have parents that aren't going to die for another 20 years.\n I feel like people don't even do basic math before assuming someone inherited. A person getting ready to retire early at 50 probably has parents who are only around 75 or 80. Probably won't inherit for another decade or more." }, { "id": "t1_op9arht", "author": "/u/ThereforeIV", "updated": "2026-06-02T04:29:18+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu1dlc/my_2m_went_up_to_3m_after_i_fired/op9arht/", "content": "My PawPaw died at age 91; my dad had already been retired for half a decade." }, { "id": "t1_opaclz7", "author": "/u/Strazdas1", "updated": "2026-06-02T09:41:39+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu1dlc/my_2m_went_up_to_3m_after_i_fired/opaclz7/", "content": "I know my family history and its not good. If cancer does not get you in your 40s, Dementia will in your 60s. So yeah, im going to retire early and enjoy my time before my brain turns to mush. Seeing your grandfather live on dementia for 20 years is not a fun experience." }, { "id": "t1_op7qraz", "author": "/u/mothandravenstudio", "updated": "2026-06-01T22:48:25+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu1dlc/my_2m_went_up_to_3m_after_i_fired/op7qraz/", "content": "Very few, as far as I can tell all of us are scheming and working the system and being frugal to do so." }, { "id": "t1_opa9yo0", "author": "/u/Hefty-Average2899", "updated": "2026-06-02T09:19:06+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu1dlc/my_2m_went_up_to_3m_after_i_fired/opa9yo0/", "content": "I was referencing myself to point out how much easier or harder things can be from the start – before a person can decide things." }, { "id": "t1_opc9nmb", "author": "/u/Traditional_Cat6874", "updated": "2026-06-02T15:59:45+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu1dlc/my_2m_went_up_to_3m_after_i_fired/opc9nmb/", "content": "Dam I was looking for a job in 1972 that would pay a dime over you lucky bastard lol." }, { "id": "t1_opcefpv", "author": "/u/ThereforeIV", "updated": "2026-06-02T16:20:38+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu1dlc/my_2m_went_up_to_3m_after_i_fired/opcefpv/", "content": "In 1998, min wage was $5.15/hr" }, { "id": "t1_ophjj07", "author": "/u/mthockeydad", "updated": "2026-06-03T10:18:29+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu1dlc/my_2m_went_up_to_3m_after_i_fired/ophjj07/", "content": "$3.35/hr in the late 80s! I was stoked when it hit $4.25 in 91.\n My parents and grandparents raised me frugally and helped me through college so I didn’t graduate with debt and loaned me $4k for our first down payment in 97—huge help!\n I haven’t inherited a huge windfall but their assistance in helping me start out without a lot of debt was invaluable. An engineering degree and a good career have helped make Fire a possibility.\n And yeah the market is nuts right now. I’m more diverse than index funds so not growing as quickly as op but still on a great upward trend" }, { "id": "t1_opacamg", "author": "/u/Strazdas1", "updated": "2026-06-02T09:38:59+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu1dlc/my_2m_went_up_to_3m_after_i_fired/opacamg/", "content": "Judging by average OP wealth/age ratio, quite a lot it seems." }, { "id": "t1_op7ror1", "author": "/u/SquareStork", "updated": "2026-06-01T22:53:29+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu1dlc/my_2m_went_up_to_3m_after_i_fired/op7ror1/", "content": "This is all my money after decades of hard work and living frugally" }, { "id": "t1_op6oq66", "author": "/u/asanano", "updated": "2026-06-01T19:44:26+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu1dlc/my_2m_went_up_to_3m_after_i_fired/op6oq66/", "content": "Step one: dont be poor Step two: profit" }, { "id": "t1_op8npoe", "author": "/u/Ancient-Swordfish292", "updated": "2026-06-02T01:59:02+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu1dlc/my_2m_went_up_to_3m_after_i_fired/op8npoe/", "content": "Feels more like one and a half steps." }, { "id": "t1_opc1hnc", "author": "/u/Last_Ad4258", "updated": "2026-06-02T15:24:08+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu1dlc/my_2m_went_up_to_3m_after_i_fired/opc1hnc/", "content": "Very succinct. Out entire society is structured to benefit rich people" }, { "id": "t1_op6wbmn", "author": "/u/DigmonsDrill", "updated": "2026-06-01T20:18:47+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu1dlc/my_2m_went_up_to_3m_after_i_fired/op6wbmn/", "content": "Just have it your taxable brokerage, bro." }, { "id": "t1_op7m0ii", "author": "/u/Ok_Ad7867", "updated": "2026-06-01T22:22:49+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu1dlc/my_2m_went_up_to_3m_after_i_fired/op7m0ii/", "content": "Historically there's only 6 days where investments make most of their gains...or so google told me once." }, { "id": "t1_op6wpen", "author": "/u/steelballer390", "updated": "2026-06-01T20:20:31+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu1dlc/my_2m_went_up_to_3m_after_i_fired/op6wpen/", "content": "This is how the market works tho.\n A 4% SWR is generally based on an expectation of 5-8% real returns on average over time.\n When the market returns 50% in 1 year, it’s within reason and expectation to experience some negative years within the next decade in order for the 5%-8% real returns to hold true.\n In recent memory, the S&P experienced near 100% return between Jun 2020-Jun 2021. And then it was negative for the following 12 months.\n Whenever i check my portfolio once a year, i always expect to be extremely UP or extremely DOWN.\n I’d actually be surprised if i open it up for the first time in 12 months and actually saw the 5%-8% return. It’s a rarity" }, { "id": "t1_op75eny", "author": "/u/Bitter-Variation-151", "updated": "2026-06-01T21:00:13+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu1dlc/my_2m_went_up_to_3m_after_i_fired/op75eny/", "content": "You only check your portfolio once a year?! That's some stone cold discipline. I check mine like 20 times a day." }, { "id": "t1_opacym6", "author": "/u/Strazdas1", "updated": "2026-06-02T09:44:34+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu1dlc/my_2m_went_up_to_3m_after_i_fired/opacym6/", "content": "I check it once a month, when i add my monthly contribution to it. I used to check more often but it makes no sense if you plan to hold for a long time." }, { "id": "t1_op9kcdz", "author": "/u/toritxtornado", "updated": "2026-06-02T05:42:10+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu1dlc/my_2m_went_up_to_3m_after_i_fired/op9kcdz/", "content": "oh yeah? i check mine 21x/day 🙂‍↔️" }, { "id": "t1_op708rg", "author": "/u/fredinNH", "updated": "2026-06-01T20:36:31+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu1dlc/my_2m_went_up_to_3m_after_i_fired/op708rg/", "content": "Exactly. Our 401ks are way up over the last couple years by I still model everything at 5% to be conservative and as we’re close to retiring I model against historically bad periods like 1970’s stagflation and the lost decade.\n The recent raging bull market is great in that we’re starting from a higher place if/when the fall comes but that’s all it is." }, { "id": "t1_opacvjd", "author": "/u/Strazdas1", "updated": "2026-06-02T09:43:51+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu1dlc/my_2m_went_up_to_3m_after_i_fired/opacvjd/", "content": "Yep. Im modeling 6% real return. Anything above that just brings my fire target quicker." }, { "id": "t1_op7bvs3", "author": "/u/ThereforeIV", "updated": "2026-06-01T21:31:07+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu1dlc/my_2m_went_up_to_3m_after_i_fired/op7bvs3/", "content": "This is where a 5 year rolling average is more useful than today's number." }, { "id": "t1_opad2rs", "author": "/u/Strazdas1", "updated": "2026-06-02T09:45:32+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu1dlc/my_2m_went_up_to_3m_after_i_fired/opad2rs/", "content": "Even the 5 year average is skewed by last month. My portfolio mix shows 5 year average to be over 15%. And thats including bonds and some shit investments i made." }, { "id": "t1_op6xmdc", "author": "/u/Suii_Sin", "updated": "2026-06-01T20:24:39+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu1dlc/my_2m_went_up_to_3m_after_i_fired/op6xmdc/", "content": "2m to 3m in one year aint compounding, thats just ridin a wave and callin it skill. my portfolio went up 40% last year too and i did literally nothin different, just vti doin its thing in a good market. dont sell just cause youre spooked by your own luck, but maybe rebalance if youre feelin top-heavy" }, { "id": "t1_op73hta", "author": "/u/Green_Bluebird5804", "updated": "2026-06-01T20:51:25+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu1dlc/my_2m_went_up_to_3m_after_i_fired/op73hta/", "content": "agree, everyone's went up in tech/AI. you just throw a dart at a stock and it goes up 60%.... enjoying the ride" }, { "id": "t1_op6qw34", "author": "/u/choyMj", "updated": "2026-06-01T19:54:09+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu1dlc/my_2m_went_up_to_3m_after_i_fired/op6qw34/", "content": "It's both. The 1m wouldn't happen if he didn't build up 2m." }, { "id": "t1_op7uk22", "author": "/u/Western_Rhubarb_7959", "updated": "2026-06-01T23:09:16+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu1dlc/my_2m_went_up_to_3m_after_i_fired/op7uk22/", "content": "Accept another upvote.\n These are crazy financial times and the market will crash at some point, it always does, and it will eventually go back up, as it always does.\n The folks thinking they're financial geniuses weren't around in the late 80s." }, { "id": "t1_op71wf0", "author": "/u/Anymous2314", "updated": "2026-06-01T20:44:07+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu1dlc/my_2m_went_up_to_3m_after_i_fired/op71wf0/", "content": "Hijacking your comment to understand allocations percentage to stocks.\n u/SquareStork how much of your corpus is invested in stock market, I hope it is not more than 70%?" }, { "id": "t1_op792em", "author": "/u/SquareStork", "updated": "2026-06-01T21:17:35+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu1dlc/my_2m_went_up_to_3m_after_i_fired/op792em/", "content": "About 75% stocks, 20% bonds and 5% cash" }, { "id": "t1_opc0o5f", "author": "/u/Farmer_Pete", "updated": "2026-06-02T15:20:31+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu1dlc/my_2m_went_up_to_3m_after_i_fired/opc0o5f/", "content": "To go up 50% in 1 year means you've got to have a lot invested in individual stocks or leveraged ETFs. If it was me, I'd take the win and sell some of those and trade them in for a more traditional/diversified index fund." }, { "id": "t1_op810rh", "author": "/u/Anymous2314", "updated": "2026-06-01T23:45:17+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu1dlc/my_2m_went_up_to_3m_after_i_fired/op810rh/", "content": "Is Emergency fund separate?\n How many years of living expenses is outside of this bucket?" }, { "id": "t1_op88voq", "author": "/u/capitalsfan08", "updated": "2026-06-02T00:30:50+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu1dlc/my_2m_went_up_to_3m_after_i_fired/op88voq/", "content": "That is the definition of compounding. The question is, is this sustainable? That's a separate question." }, { "id": "t1_op9quy6", "author": "/u/Adventurous-Ease-259", "updated": "2026-06-02T06:35:09+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu1dlc/my_2m_went_up_to_3m_after_i_fired/op9quy6/", "content": "Well compounding doesn’t happen during the bear phase of the market…." }, { "id": "t1_op6i2nw", "author": "", "updated": "2026-06-01T19:12:29+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu1dlc/my_2m_went_up_to_3m_after_i_fired/op6i2nw/", "content": "[deleted]" }, { "id": "t1_op6kfwr", "author": "/u/Balfegor", "updated": "2026-06-01T19:24:32+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu1dlc/my_2m_went_up_to_3m_after_i_fired/op6kfwr/", "content": "Nothing is really "compounding" if he started with 10,000 shares and still has 10,000 shares, and they just increased in price from $200 to $300." }, { "id": "t1_op6kztm", "author": "/u/Kinnins0n", "updated": "2026-06-01T19:27:08+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu1dlc/my_2m_went_up_to_3m_after_i_fired/op6kztm/", "content": "Actually if that’s due to 6 years of 7% YoY price improvement (maybe with some portion of the increased balance being reinvested dividends) that’s exactly what compounding is." }, { "id": "t1_op6odss", "author": "/u/smithnugget", "updated": "2026-06-01T19:42:53+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu1dlc/my_2m_went_up_to_3m_after_i_fired/op6odss/", "content": "It's still compounding regardless of shares.\n If he went from 2M to 3M in a year and next year he gets 10% gain he then has 3.3M. He gains 10% of $3M not 10% of 2M." }, { "id": "t1_op6r23q", "author": "/u/choyMj", "updated": "2026-06-01T19:54:55+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu1dlc/my_2m_went_up_to_3m_after_i_fired/op6r23q/", "content": "That's literally what compounding is" }, { "id": "t1_op8ohrj", "author": "/u/john42195", "updated": "2026-06-02T02:03:47+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu1dlc/my_2m_went_up_to_3m_after_i_fired/op8ohrj/", "content": "This guy shares" }, { "id": "t1_op6dbzd", "author": "/u/ExtensionMoose1863", "updated": "2026-06-01T18:44:54+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu1dlc/my_2m_went_up_to_3m_after_i_fired/op6dbzd/", "content": "Big up can also be big down... you've clearly got some pretty high beta plays here with your funds. Make sure you can tolerate a lost decade without having to ditch your plan. If you FIREd at 2 then you shouldn't need 3... I'd take 500-1M and put it somewhere super boring to de risk your sequence of returns." }, { "id": "t1_op6gquy", "author": "/u/Brain_Fatigue", "updated": "2026-06-01T19:04:45+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu1dlc/my_2m_went_up_to_3m_after_i_fired/op6gquy/", "content": "Literally a lost decade. See Japan for an example." }, { "id": "t1_op6lo3m", "author": "/u/Old_Value_9157", "updated": "2026-06-01T19:30:18+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu1dlc/my_2m_went_up_to_3m_after_i_fired/op6lo3m/", "content": "I mean, I think Japan had like a lost 3ish decades?" }, { "id": "t1_op6nle3", "author": "/u/lukeevan99", "updated": "2026-06-01T19:39:16+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu1dlc/my_2m_went_up_to_3m_after_i_fired/op6nle3/", "content": "Yeah int he late 1800s-early 1900s you'd be an idiot not to invest in London market\n In the 50s-80s you'd be an idiot not to invest in Japanese market\n Now you'd be an idiot not to invest in the us market\n Do we really think the US is gonna stay on top forever and this bull market will continue for the next 20, 30, or 50 years?" }, { "id": "t1_op6otpu", "author": "/u/Old_Value_9157", "updated": "2026-06-01T19:44:53+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu1dlc/my_2m_went_up_to_3m_after_i_fired/op6otpu/", "content": "Could make a run for awhile longer. But yeah, I don't think US stock market will be the top dog forever." }, { "id": "t1_op6rh1v", "author": "/u/No-Communication-287", "updated": "2026-06-01T19:56:47+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu1dlc/my_2m_went_up_to_3m_after_i_fired/op6rh1v/", "content": "There’s no alternative. And China is highly unlikely to become the next big dog" }, { "id": "t1_op72zwv", "author": "/u/Old_Value_9157", "updated": "2026-06-01T20:49:08+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu1dlc/my_2m_went_up_to_3m_after_i_fired/op72zwv/", "content": "Maybe, but Total Market Int'l could outperform USA for some time. Already about 18 months outperformance as it is." }, { "id": "t1_opadlnh", "author": "/u/Strazdas1", "updated": "2026-06-02T09:49:51+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu1dlc/my_2m_went_up_to_3m_after_i_fired/opadlnh/", "content": "for decades Nifty50 was outperforming SP500 by a good margin, now its not doing that but who knows what future holds." }, { "id": "t1_opadidb", "author": "/u/Strazdas1", "updated": "2026-06-02T09:49:07+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu1dlc/my_2m_went_up_to_3m_after_i_fired/opadidb/", "content": "Just diversity it and be safe. I got about 25% in European market and another 25% in Asia (including Japan, but really mostly Taiwanese). There were a few years where europe outperformed US. Just dont get into China market, that one gets random freefall events constantly." }, { "id": "t1_opadb1m", "author": "/u/Strazdas1", "updated": "2026-06-02T09:47:26+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu1dlc/my_2m_went_up_to_3m_after_i_fired/opadb1m/", "content": "For economy yes, for market, once you account for dividends, its not that bad. Its not doing american numbers, but its still decent growth. Japanese companies love dividends though." }, { "id": "t1_op6h5e0", "author": "", "updated": "2026-06-01T19:07:07+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu1dlc/my_2m_went_up_to_3m_after_i_fired/op6h5e0/", "content": "[deleted]" }, { "id": "t1_op6mbuu", "author": "/u/A-Grey-World", "updated": "2026-06-01T19:33:23+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu1dlc/my_2m_went_up_to_3m_after_i_fired/op6mbuu/", "content": "S&P 500 has spent many decades without growth in the past.\n If you invested in 1968 you wouldn't have seen a real return until 1994.\n 1999 and hit the dot com bubble and you wouldn't have seen a real return until 2016.\n And of course, 1929, which didn't get that high against until 1958 or something.\n https://www.macrotrends.net/2324/sp-500-historical-chart-data" }, { "id": "t1_op6vm1u", "author": "/u/Working_Analyst_1988", "updated": "2026-06-01T20:15:35+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu1dlc/my_2m_went_up_to_3m_after_i_fired/op6vm1u/", "content": "Most of our portfolios are not invested at extreme peak or troughs of a market. We build the portfolio over time.\n Consider your framing applied to the Great Recession. The market peaked in October 2007 at $1500 (SP5000). It didn’t recover until January 2013 (six years). But $1500 isn’t what our average cost basis was. It was much lower.\n Prices in October 2002 were half what they were five years later. So our portfolios cost basis was really closer to ~$1100. The recovery to THAT price level was closer eight months.\n We recovered all of our cost basis within eight months of the worst market in a generation. And within six years we recovered all of it.\n The Covid crash was even faster.\n Stay invested and don’t stress about this." }, { "id": "t1_op6yj2u", "author": "/u/A-Grey-World", "updated": "2026-06-01T20:28:45+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu1dlc/my_2m_went_up_to_3m_after_i_fired/op6yj2u/", "content": "Yes, but from OPs point of view, he could be at the peak right now. He's not in the accumulation phase so won't be riding the rise after the fall of a correction.\n I'm not agreeing OP should pull his money out of the market (that's trying to time the peak) - but equally, thinking "wow 3 million is loads" and changing your spending behaviour or something because "the market always goes up" is also dumb.\n The 3m OP is looking at now might be worth 3m in 15 years time (minus what they take out). And it's silly to ignore that." }, { "id": "t1_op7442p", "author": "/u/Working_Analyst_1988", "updated": "2026-06-01T20:54:14+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu1dlc/my_2m_went_up_to_3m_after_i_fired/op7442p/", "content": "The market does always go up from the point of view which matters: sufficient time in the market.\n The dollar cost averaging folks are right. Your weighted cost basis is what matters. Look backwards at your cost basis for losses not at peak prices. Nothing is as bad from that viewpoint. Declines from peak don’t look as severe and recoveries look to occur sooner.\n Balance your portfolio with more stable but lower yielding investments (mitigating sequence risk). Accept that the next best alternative (cash or 100% fixed income) is worse. Take your gains and diversify a bit. Don’t let your spending get ahead of modest growth (one or two exceptional years should not reset your expense plan).\n Go for a walk or read." }, { "id": "t1_op6rode", "author": "/u/No-Communication-287", "updated": "2026-06-01T19:57:42+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu1dlc/my_2m_went_up_to_3m_after_i_fired/op6rode/", "content": "That is only if you were unlucky enough to invest at the very peak of the bubble" }, { "id": "t1_op6y885", "author": "/u/A-Grey-World", "updated": "2026-06-01T20:27:23+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu1dlc/my_2m_went_up_to_3m_after_i_fired/op6y885/", "content": "Yes. But OP might be at the peak of a bubble at this point looking at their 3m. The are not contributing. In the accumulation phase you're spreading the risk.\n Their 3m might still only be worth 3m in 15 years (minus what they take out) and they should plan for that." }, { "id": "t1_op73hdt", "author": "/u/No-Communication-287", "updated": "2026-06-01T20:51:21+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu1dlc/my_2m_went_up_to_3m_after_i_fired/op73hdt/", "content": "Looking at the 08 bubble the recovery did not take 15 years especially if you look at stocks like Microsoft. And I don’t think any comparison to the dot com bubble is justified here. So honestly I think a: the op is better off just keeping the money where they are and b: we likely still have some bull run ahead of us so in the worst case scenario he’s back to his ~3 mil or so" }, { "id": "t1_op74lc5", "author": "/u/A-Grey-World", "updated": "2026-06-01T20:56:27+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu1dlc/my_2m_went_up_to_3m_after_i_fired/op74lc5/", "content": "Are you not looking at the adjusted for inflation figures? Real returns. 08 hadn't gotten back to dot com bubble levels by the time it crashed again.\n I agree OP should keep his money where it is, though. No point trying to time the peak.\n But don't plan for it to just always go up." }, { "id": "t1_op75hv2", "author": "/u/No-Communication-287", "updated": "2026-06-01T21:00:37+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu1dlc/my_2m_went_up_to_3m_after_i_fired/op75hv2/", "content": "Again, what stocks are we talking about? All us stocks? S&P500 made a return in 5.5 years inflation adjusted" }, { "id": "t1_op75wks", "author": "/u/A-Grey-World", "updated": "2026-06-01T21:02:34+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu1dlc/my_2m_went_up_to_3m_after_i_fired/op75wks/", "content": "The S&P500, as I linked, was what I was using as an example. Between 1999 and 2015/2016 there was no real return.\n I linked the data https://imgur.com/gallery/dcuVDfk#yczNxfd" }, { "id": "t1_opae3a5", "author": "/u/Strazdas1", "updated": "2026-06-02T09:53:49+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu1dlc/my_2m_went_up_to_3m_after_i_fired/opae3a5/", "content": "dotcom is the most common comparison with analists with how overvalued AI stock is believed to be. both were tech "wonders" that overpromised and underdelivered." }, { "id": "t1_opadzdy", "author": "/u/Strazdas1", "updated": "2026-06-02T09:52:56+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu1dlc/my_2m_went_up_to_3m_after_i_fired/opadzdy/", "content": "OP also retired on 2M. If he looses 33% hes still fine with his plan without even needing to reduce spending." }, { "id": "t1_opadtr6", "author": "/u/Strazdas1", "updated": "2026-06-02T09:51:41+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu1dlc/my_2m_went_up_to_3m_after_i_fired/opadtr6/", "content": "If you bought at peak dotcom considering all market index (and not cherrypicking failed companies) youd actually see a real return in ~2005." }, { "id": "t1_opbdhjv", "author": "/u/MassiveDefinition274", "updated": "2026-06-02T13:32:34+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu1dlc/my_2m_went_up_to_3m_after_i_fired/opbdhjv/", "content": "The thing is you have to look at the evolution of monetary policy over that time.\n The big "lesson" that got learned during the great recession is that the way to "fix" the economy (at least on paper) was quantitative easing, which was essentially printing money and using it to shore up financial institutions, which then just got shoveled into the stock market to pump it up even more. It causes a lot of inflation, as we've all seen - but the stock market is essentially your hedge against inflation to start with.\n And it's exactly what happened in 2020 during COVID. The dip looks small in hindsight but at the time it was like almost a third - and they went STRAIGHT into just printing money and shoveling it into people's hands, and you can see the market just rocket right back up." }, { "id": "t1_op6o2t0", "author": "/u/Cheap_Office8701", "updated": "2026-06-01T19:41:30+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu1dlc/my_2m_went_up_to_3m_after_i_fired/op6o2t0/", "content": "This. That’s my plan when I pull the trigger." }, { "id": "t1_op6qg2f", "author": "/u/PantsMicGee", "updated": "2026-06-01T19:52:09+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu1dlc/my_2m_went_up_to_3m_after_i_fired/op6qg2f/", "content": "This wont end well." }, { "id": "t1_op72zes", "author": "/u/NickStonk", "updated": "2026-06-01T20:49:04+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu1dlc/my_2m_went_up_to_3m_after_i_fired/op72zes/", "content": "This is good advice" }, { "id": "t1_opanw9r", "author": "/u/Decent-Photograph391", "updated": "2026-06-02T11:06:32+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu1dlc/my_2m_went_up_to_3m_after_i_fired/opanw9r/", "content": "That’s us. We have accumulated 2 times what we need for retirement next year. So we moved half of it to cash. If it all goes to hack tomorrow, we still have what we need to retire.\n The remaining still in stock is us playing with house money." }, { "id": "t1_opaud32", "author": "/u/ExtensionMoose1863", "updated": "2026-06-02T11:48:28+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu1dlc/my_2m_went_up_to_3m_after_i_fired/opaud32/", "content": "And you should still be making 4%+ on that cash" }, { "id": "t1_op6cpnn", "author": "/u/tapeduct-2015", "updated": "2026-06-01T18:41:15+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu1dlc/my_2m_went_up_to_3m_after_i_fired/op6cpnn/", "content": "I would have at least 3 years of living expenses in bond funds and cash in order to ride out a downturn. Other than that, I would stay the course." }, { "id": "t1_op9hb5n", "author": "/u/jshen", "updated": "2026-06-02T05:18:22+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu1dlc/my_2m_went_up_to_3m_after_i_fired/op9hb5n/", "content": "Honest question, why 3?" }, { "id": "t1_op9v3xh", "author": "/u/Bambinooo", "updated": "2026-06-02T07:10:06+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu1dlc/my_2m_went_up_to_3m_after_i_fired/op9v3xh/", "content": "Recession recovery takes about that long on average." }, { "id": "t1_opb3fri", "author": "/u/tapeduct-2015", "updated": "2026-06-02T12:40:49+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu1dlc/my_2m_went_up_to_3m_after_i_fired/opb3fri/", "content": "Well, most downturns last less than 3 year so I figure it is a safe time frame. I personally will also have a small pension which would allow me to be a bit more aggressive with my equity index funds. Depends on the individual situation, but OP has $750k that in cash/bonds so they should be fine in any market." }, { "id": "t1_opae8sm", "author": "/u/Strazdas1", "updated": "2026-06-02T09:55:03+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu1dlc/my_2m_went_up_to_3m_after_i_fired/opae8sm/", "content": "Yeah, keeping 1 year in cash as emergency fund now but will definitelly increase that at retirement time to power through any SORR." }, { "id": "t1_op6cde7", "author": "/u/FIMilestonesDeux", "updated": "2026-06-01T18:39:15+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu1dlc/my_2m_went_up_to_3m_after_i_fired/op6cde7/", "content": "I'd consider exposure. I would want to make sure my retirement is not gambled away. Since at that point I'd be making zero income, I'd want to make sure my money is in the safest, low-risk investments. The goal then is not to increase it, it is to last me until I die." }, { "id": "t1_op6fw9v", "author": "/u/Skylabyrinth3", "updated": "2026-06-01T18:59:46+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu1dlc/my_2m_went_up_to_3m_after_i_fired/op6fw9v/", "content": "winning the game is a good time to stop betting the house" }, { "id": "t1_op8by5o", "author": "/u/Melodic_Mouse7140", "updated": "2026-06-02T00:49:02+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu1dlc/my_2m_went_up_to_3m_after_i_fired/op8by5o/", "content": "this is a key thesis of the book, "Where are the customers yachts?"" }, { "id": "t1_op6ongh", "author": "/u/Key_Cheetah7982", "updated": "2026-06-01T19:44:06+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu1dlc/my_2m_went_up_to_3m_after_i_fired/op6ongh/", "content": "In fact, May be a good time to cash out a bit and close your mortgage" }, { "id": "t1_op6cpdk", "author": "/u/SquareStork", "updated": "2026-06-01T18:41:12+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu1dlc/my_2m_went_up_to_3m_after_i_fired/op6cpdk/", "content": "About 2M of my 3M is invested in index funds" }, { "id": "t1_op6ftin", "author": "/u/Dudes-Opinion", "updated": "2026-06-01T18:59:20+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu1dlc/my_2m_went_up_to_3m_after_i_fired/op6ftin/", "content": "Index funds are great but still expose you to a lot of risk, the S&P 500 is 8% nvda, 6.5% apple, 5% msft, 4% amazon, 6%google.\n That's a heavy concentration in tech, which makes sense if growth is your goal, but if you want to de-risk the portfolio a bit I'd probably rebalance a portion into some lower volatility investments." }, { "id": "t1_op6hlxz", "author": "/u/PurpleEast6327", "updated": "2026-06-01T19:09:51+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu1dlc/my_2m_went_up_to_3m_after_i_fired/op6hlxz/", "content": "what would you recommend" }, { "id": "t1_op6i6ox", "author": "/u/Dudes-Opinion", "updated": "2026-06-01T19:13:06+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu1dlc/my_2m_went_up_to_3m_after_i_fired/op6i6ox/", "content": "It really depends on OP's needs. If 2 million is OP's FIRE number then it makes sense to look into fixed income investments or even some annuities that limit your downside (and upside) risk.\n Full disclosure I am not saying I would recommend doing this, but they are strategies if you want to become a bit more conservative if you're well above your FIRE number" }, { "id": "t1_op73n2j", "author": "/u/ZEALOUS_RHINO", "updated": "2026-06-01T20:52:04+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu1dlc/my_2m_went_up_to_3m_after_i_fired/op73n2j/", "content": "are you recommending actively underweighting big tech? Isn't that the exact kind of active management that is frowned upon in this sub where everyone pushes buying broad based market weighted ETFs?" }, { "id": "t1_op74tpo", "author": "/u/Dudes-Opinion", "updated": "2026-06-01T20:57:31+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu1dlc/my_2m_went_up_to_3m_after_i_fired/op74tpo/", "content": "- If you read my comment below this I am NOT recommending this just saying if OPs risk tolerance has changed, de-risking is an option\n- Rebalancing your portfolio is VERY different than active management." }, { "id": "t1_opaepg3", "author": "/u/Strazdas1", "updated": "2026-06-02T09:58:48+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu1dlc/my_2m_went_up_to_3m_after_i_fired/opaepg3/", "content": "Tech companies are just the largest companies in the market nowadays. Replacing oil companies that used to be largest. If you go for all world index youll still be heavy in tech. you have to go out of your way to not be tech heavy nowadays." }, { "id": "t1_op6id3o", "author": "/u/AndyTheEngr", "updated": "2026-06-01T19:14:04+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu1dlc/my_2m_went_up_to_3m_after_i_fired/op6id3o/", "content": "I too am heavily in index funds and target retirement date funds, and I don't want all this exposure to big tech, especially AI which I think is a bubble which is going to pop in a very nasty way. I don't want to be all in bonds, though, either.\n Any recommendations for what I can trade to within my 401(k) at Fidelity that is on a more solid footing? I'm thinking like international industrials like boring German companies. I've made over 15% this year, but I'm close enough to retirement where I'd happily miss out on another potential 15% up to avoid 15% or more down." }, { "id": "t1_op6iyvk", "author": "/u/Dudes-Opinion", "updated": "2026-06-01T19:17:16+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu1dlc/my_2m_went_up_to_3m_after_i_fired/op6iyvk/", "content": "Target date funds so a great job at decreasing risk automatically on a "glide path". I'd just keep at it unless you're really close to retiring early" }, { "id": "t1_op6wm0r", "author": "/u/AndyTheEngr", "updated": "2026-06-01T20:20:05+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu1dlc/my_2m_went_up_to_3m_after_i_fired/op6wm0r/", "content": "This year or next." }, { "id": "t1_op6d2d0", "author": "/u/FIMilestonesDeux", "updated": "2026-06-01T18:43:20+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu1dlc/my_2m_went_up_to_3m_after_i_fired/op6d2d0/", "content": "If the market goes down 50%, with he biggest companies having the largest effect, how will you fair?" }, { "id": "t1_op6dctu", "author": "/u/SquareStork", "updated": "2026-06-01T18:45:02+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu1dlc/my_2m_went_up_to_3m_after_i_fired/op6dctu/", "content": "I’m unsure but I always keep 3 years of living expenses in a HYSA so at least I can wait it out" }, { "id": "t1_op6fcn9", "author": "/u/bumpman2", "updated": "2026-06-01T18:56:37+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu1dlc/my_2m_went_up_to_3m_after_i_fired/op6fcn9/", "content": "Big Tech represents 37% of the S&P 500. That plus your 33% direct exposure to big tech makes you betting almost 70% on big tech (assuming your index funds are S&P 500 or heavily weighted toward the same). If that plus three years of cash is your entire portfolio, you are not diversified." }, { "id": "t1_op6m3u1", "author": "/u/FIMilestonesDeux", "updated": "2026-06-01T19:32:21+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu1dlc/my_2m_went_up_to_3m_after_i_fired/op6m3u1/", "content": "Bingo!" }, { "id": "t1_opaf00r", "author": "/u/Strazdas1", "updated": "2026-06-02T10:01:08+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu1dlc/my_2m_went_up_to_3m_after_i_fired/opaf00r/", "content": "MSCI world index fund is 31% tech. Tech is just that huge in the world market. They are the new oil companies, the ones who decide the market trend. And if you think you know better than overall market, well i hope you are the 5% that actually do." }, { "id": "t1_op6gttp", "author": "/u/Rich-Weather-5691", "updated": "2026-06-01T19:05:14+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu1dlc/my_2m_went_up_to_3m_after_i_fired/op6gttp/", "content": "😅😅😅 if the entire world economy implodes and the foundations of our society are broken how will you manage your withdrawal rate ..." }, { "id": "t1_op6hj6f", "author": "/u/nothatsmyarm", "updated": "2026-06-01T19:09:23+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu1dlc/my_2m_went_up_to_3m_after_i_fired/op6hj6f/", "content": "Yeah, if that sort of thing happens and we don’t bounce back, the world looks fundamentally a lot different." }, { "id": "t1_op6mp7z", "author": "/u/FIMilestonesDeux", "updated": "2026-06-01T19:35:06+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu1dlc/my_2m_went_up_to_3m_after_i_fired/op6mp7z/", "content": "Something to consider indeed. The S&P 500 went down by 56.8% in 2008." }, { "id": "t1_op6oxwg", "author": "/u/nothatsmyarm", "updated": "2026-06-01T19:45:24+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu1dlc/my_2m_went_up_to_3m_after_i_fired/op6oxwg/", "content": "It took over a year to do that and bounced back a few months later (not to its previous high—that took five years—but up from down 56%).\n If you can wait it out, you’re not eating down 50%. If it’s down 50% for a substantial period? Then we have far bigger problems afoot." }, { "id": "t1_op6rv85", "author": "/u/FIMilestonesDeux", "updated": "2026-06-01T19:58:33+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu1dlc/my_2m_went_up_to_3m_after_i_fired/op6rv85/", "content": "Totally. I hope that never happens." }, { "id": "t1_opaf7o3", "author": "/u/Strazdas1", "updated": "2026-06-02T10:02:50+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu1dlc/my_2m_went_up_to_3m_after_i_fired/opaf7o3/", "content": "in 2009 it bounced back over half of what it dropped, so its really weathering the storm kind of thing. You are worse of if you get into stagflation for a decade, as noone is doing 10 year weathering." }, { "id": "t1_op6guxc", "author": "/u/Double-treble-nc14", "updated": "2026-06-01T19:05:24+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu1dlc/my_2m_went_up_to_3m_after_i_fired/op6guxc/", "content": "Keep in mind that tech companies are driving the gains in your index funds as well." }, { "id": "t1_op6odp4", "author": "/u/Key_Cheetah7982", "updated": "2026-06-01T19:42:52+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu1dlc/my_2m_went_up_to_3m_after_i_fired/op6odp4/", "content": "Index funds could mean a lot of things.\n You could mean VT and essentially every companies stock worldwide.\n You could mean Cathie woods ARK funds that focus on higher risk / rewards." }, { "id": "t1_op6s7l1", "author": "/u/No-Reaction-9364", "updated": "2026-06-01T20:00:06+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu1dlc/my_2m_went_up_to_3m_after_i_fired/op6s7l1/", "content": "That doesn't mean this is compound interest. What index funds are they are what percentage were in the index funds? A 50% gain in 1 year isn't "compound interest"." }, { "id": "t1_op73yy6", "author": "/u/Over_Efficiency_2605", "updated": "2026-06-01T20:53:34+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu1dlc/my_2m_went_up_to_3m_after_i_fired/op73yy6/", "content": "Okay. But 35% of S&P500 is Mag7. So add that to your other 1/3 and now you're 2/3 invested in tech.\n Even if you're "more" diversified with VT. At 17% + 1/3 thats 50% Mag7 exposure." }, { "id": "t1_op6g1dm", "author": "/u/CruxMimic_2", "updated": "2026-06-01T19:00:35+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu1dlc/my_2m_went_up_to_3m_after_i_fired/op6g1dm/", "content": "Yeah, at 3M the question changes from “how do I grow this fast?” to “how do I make sure one bad sector doesn’t ruin my sleep?”" }, { "id": "t1_op6m8gz", "author": "/u/FIMilestonesDeux", "updated": "2026-06-01T19:32:57+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu1dlc/my_2m_went_up_to_3m_after_i_fired/op6m8gz/", "content": "Exactly" }, { "id": "t1_op8aiij", "author": "/u/Toris0610", "updated": "2026-06-02T00:40:35+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu1dlc/my_2m_went_up_to_3m_after_i_fired/op8aiij/", "content": "You made a very good point. To me, investing may only be a matter of ten or twenty years, but what truly matters is whether that money will still be there thirty years from now, or even after we are no longer here.\n We are living in a time of inflation, currency depreciation, and many uncertainties, so protecting our capital has become very important. It is not only for ourselves, but also for our family and future generations.\n I have always believed that the meaning of wealth is not only about how much we have today, but whether it can be properly managed, preserved, and continue to create value in the future. If we still have the ability to create and accumulate wealth now, then we should try our best to turn it into a more stable and long term protection." }, { "id": "t1_op6ch15", "author": "/u/Interesting-Card5803", "updated": "2026-06-01T18:39:50+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu1dlc/my_2m_went_up_to_3m_after_i_fired/op6ch15/", "content": "50% growth yoy is crazy. I would seriously consider diversifying your portfolio. The Trinity study is based on broad market performance, and that undergirds the principals of FIRE, not high concentration in one sector. I don't know of any literature that could give you a clear understanding of safe withdrawals with a portfolio like that." }, { "id": "t1_op6l7qy", "author": "/u/Reasonable_Box2568", "updated": "2026-06-01T19:28:10+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu1dlc/my_2m_went_up_to_3m_after_i_fired/op6l7qy/", "content": "50% growth while withdrawing for expenses!" }, { "id": "t1_op72oz4", "author": "/u/fredinNH", "updated": "2026-06-01T20:47:45+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu1dlc/my_2m_went_up_to_3m_after_i_fired/op72oz4/", "content": "Op is gambling with 100% in index funds and tech stocks and he won… this time" }, { "id": "t1_op7mil5", "author": "/u/gr8scottaz", "updated": "2026-06-01T22:25:30+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu1dlc/my_2m_went_up_to_3m_after_i_fired/op7mil5/", "content": "Agreed. This will not age well if the gambling continues." }, { "id": "t1_opgmckk", "author": "/u/OkAbrocoma695", "updated": "2026-06-03T05:41:14+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu1dlc/my_2m_went_up_to_3m_after_i_fired/opgmckk/", "content": "Ya he should have been in bonds and made 3% 🙄" }, { "id": "t1_opaefew", "author": "/u/Strazdas1", "updated": "2026-06-02T09:56:32+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu1dlc/my_2m_went_up_to_3m_after_i_fired/opaefew/", "content": "tech index fund grew 57%+ over 1 year YoY. While others didnt do that much its not crazy that he did in fact got this return without it being some anomalously risky investment." }, { "id": "t1_opb07ug", "author": "/u/Interesting-Card5803", "updated": "2026-06-02T12:22:46+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu1dlc/my_2m_went_up_to_3m_after_i_fired/opb07ug/", "content": "It's not about the risk per se, it's the fact that models (largely adopted by the FIRE movement) for safely withdrawing from a portfolio for an extended period of time did not account for this kind of asset concentration. Bill Bengen, the Trinity Study, both provide a robust body of evidence for safety in withdrawals, but not for a portfolio like this. It's like when crypto people come to this sub and say, 'I've got 25X my expenses in bitcoin.' Sure, but that 25X notion is based on the historical behavior of a broad holding of equities and bonds, not crypto. In that case, there would be no way to know with any certainty that they were FI. Maybe they really need 50X to survive the volatility of the asset class." }, { "id": "t1_opb6e0e", "author": "/u/Strazdas1", "updated": "2026-06-02T12:56:35+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu1dlc/my_2m_went_up_to_3m_after_i_fired/opb6e0e/", "content": "If you have a cash buffer you can survive short term volatility and tech is such a huge part of the market (MSCI world index fund is 31% tech) that its the new oil companies but with better growth.\n And yeah, i guess he was overleveraged in tech based on his numbers but not to a dangerous degree. a third of his portfolio was tech." }, { "id": "t1_opb9bk2", "author": "/u/Interesting-Card5803", "updated": "2026-06-02T13:11:45+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu1dlc/my_2m_went_up_to_3m_after_i_fired/opb9bk2/", "content": "Well, I think a little more than a third. One third was explicitly tech per his post. If we were to assume that his other index funds were cap-weighted S&P 500 index funds, they would be about 40% tech, themselves. That means that he would be essentially ~60% in one market sector, and worse than that, primarily Large Cap within that sector. I'm not saying he couldn't make this work, but it's not FIRE by any means that we can define.\n It's just an aggressive portfolio with a lot of unknowns, and if he 'FIREd' as claimed then he's making something less than an educated guess on what he can withdraw from that portfolio for the long term, cash or not." }, { "id": "t1_opbleyy", "author": "/u/Strazdas1", "updated": "2026-06-02T14:11:01+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu1dlc/my_2m_went_up_to_3m_after_i_fired/opbleyy/", "content": "Or he can convert that million he made this year into HYSA cash/bonds and have the other 2 million just accumulate for 15 years with zero draw from it." }, { "id": "t1_opcdljc", "author": "/u/Interesting-Card5803", "updated": "2026-06-02T16:16:57+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu1dlc/my_2m_went_up_to_3m_after_i_fired/opcdljc/", "content": "I think that could work, but he could only withdraw ~$84k per year for the first 15 years assuming yields/interest stay roughly where they are today. With a well diversified portfolio of $3M, I think he could crank that a little higher, $120k at 4% or $105k at 3.5%, which is pretty safe by historical standards. Unfortunately OP didn't state his annual expenses.\n But if he went the bond/HYSA route for the $1M (and a sensible portfolio for the other $2M), then in 15 years he could have a portfolio of $6M with average real market returns, and could safely withdraw $240k at that point. Bird in the hand vs two in the bush I suppose." }, { "id": "t1_ophgohn", "author": "/u/Strazdas1", "updated": "2026-06-03T09:56:18+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu1dlc/my_2m_went_up_to_3m_after_i_fired/ophgohn/", "content": "He started with 2M, so his expected withdrawal was 80k to begin with. So it still fits within expected lifestyle.. Or he can withdraw a bit more and have it be less than 15 years. That 2M will be 4M in 7 years in diversified portfolio anyway." }, { "id": "t1_op6js82", "author": "/u/khbuzzard", "updated": "2026-06-01T19:21:20+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu1dlc/my_2m_went_up_to_3m_after_i_fired/op6js82/", "content": ""Advice" from random people on the internet is worth less than the paper it's printed on, but here's what I'd do in your shoes:\n Rebalance to a sensible investment allocation (i.e., broadly diversified stock index funds, with anywhere from 0% to 50% in bonds), don't get greedy, don't overinflate your lifestyle, and thank your lucky stars that you are very likely set for life.\n If you were prepared to FIRE at $2M, that means you were planning on annual expenses of something like $80K. At $3M, you can bump that up modestly to $90K and still be at a 3% withdrawal rate, which according to this , has never failed to sustain even a 60-year retirement." }, { "id": "t1_opafe2x", "author": "/u/Strazdas1", "updated": "2026-06-02T10:04:14+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu1dlc/my_2m_went_up_to_3m_after_i_fired/opafe2x/", "content": "Good thing noone prints reddit comments so theres no paper its printed on." }, { "id": "t1_opaxes6", "author": "/u/khbuzzard", "updated": "2026-06-02T12:06:40+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu1dlc/my_2m_went_up_to_3m_after_i_fired/opaxes6/", "content": "I see you got the joke. Congratulations!" }, { "id": "t1_op6cile", "author": "/u/Carpet-Early", "updated": "2026-06-01T18:40:06+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu1dlc/my_2m_went_up_to_3m_after_i_fired/op6cile/", "content": "You should consider going back to work. The shareholders need you." }, { "id": "t1_op6hvpg", "author": "/u/ChipmunkRemarkable20", "updated": "2026-06-01T19:11:25+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu1dlc/my_2m_went_up_to_3m_after_i_fired/op6hvpg/", "content": "Sounds like you're a bit overexposed to luck, because let's be honest, nobody knows what's going to happen.\n But if you decided to ask this question, you must be feeling some discomfort regarding your current allocation. Perhaps decide what split you'd be more comfortable with and work towards it gradually (like DCA-ing out of it)? By changing it gradually, perhaps you correct the allocation while addressing some of the FOMO you might experience by selling all now and then watch everything climb even more?" }, { "id": "t1_op7swmb", "author": "/u/FireStarter3133", "updated": "2026-06-01T23:00:10+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu1dlc/my_2m_went_up_to_3m_after_i_fired/op7swmb/", "content": "If you're portfolio went up 50% in a year you are overexposed." }, { "id": "t1_opba4g5", "author": "/u/shotparrot", "updated": "2026-06-02T13:15:50+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu1dlc/my_2m_went_up_to_3m_after_i_fired/opba4g5/", "content": "Agreed. Mine went up 40%. That’s a problem. Darn AI and memory demand is making me too much money! What should I do??\n ;)" }, { "id": "t1_op6ddcq", "author": "/u/DIYRetiree", "updated": "2026-06-01T18:45:08+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu1dlc/my_2m_went_up_to_3m_after_i_fired/op6ddcq/", "content": "rebalance between stocks and bonds perhaps? Consider more bonds as a lower risk part of portfolio?" }, { "id": "t1_op6gsuq", "author": "/u/MyEgoDiesAtTheEnd", "updated": "2026-06-01T19:05:05+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu1dlc/my_2m_went_up_to_3m_after_i_fired/op6gsuq/", "content": "This year of bubble gains is atypical. Don't expect Christmas every year" }, { "id": "t1_op6r9j4", "author": "/u/dcute69", "updated": "2026-06-01T19:55:50+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu1dlc/my_2m_went_up_to_3m_after_i_fired/op6r9j4/", "content": "Kind of a weird saying? Christmas has come every year and will for a long time" }, { "id": "t1_op7udpw", "author": "/u/Outside_Shopping6861", "updated": "2026-06-01T23:08:19+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu1dlc/my_2m_went_up_to_3m_after_i_fired/op7udpw/", "content": "Nah I expect Christmas every year tf u on about" }, { "id": "t1_op6gvoj", "author": "/u/everySmell9000", "updated": "2026-06-01T19:05:32+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu1dlc/my_2m_went_up_to_3m_after_i_fired/op6gvoj/", "content": "In my opinion, rotating out of individual shares and into index funds is wise. I dont do it all at once because i still have some tech shares in my taxable acct and need to limit my tax bill each year. But I have better peace of mind knowing Im moving towards 100% index funds (eventually!) The idea is that an investor in diversified etfs will likely hold up better during a downturn than one who’s holding individual stocks.\n Edit: forgot to mention that my etf holdings include bond funds. my target allocation is 80/20." }, { "id": "t1_op7iepo", "author": "/u/poiurewq", "updated": "2026-06-01T22:03:50+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu1dlc/my_2m_went_up_to_3m_after_i_fired/op7iepo/", "content": "Same - my portfolio also increased from 2 to 3 mm this year. But this actually worries me. I’ve never done this well in the market. Easy come easy go. Gonna take some money off the table and buy something boring" }, { "id": "t1_opafhp8", "author": "/u/Strazdas1", "updated": "2026-06-02T10:05:01+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu1dlc/my_2m_went_up_to_3m_after_i_fired/opafhp8/", "content": "just dont adjust your spending with it and see if its stable. Once you trust its stable then you adjust spending." }, { "id": "t1_op6ctay", "author": "/u/RareChemistry8427", "updated": "2026-06-01T18:41:51+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu1dlc/my_2m_went_up_to_3m_after_i_fired/op6ctay/", "content": "Man that's insane growth for just one year. I'm still working toward my fire number but seeing returns like this makes me wonder if I should be more aggressive with my allocation.\n For the big tech positions - maybe consider trimming just portion of them instead of selling everything at once? You could take some profits while still keeping exposure to potential upside. But then again, if those gains pushed you well above your original fire target, taking some risk off table might make sense." }, { "id": "t1_op8ccj3", "author": "/u/Toris0610", "updated": "2026-06-02T00:51:21+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu1dlc/my_2m_went_up_to_3m_after_i_fired/op8ccj3/", "content": "Yes, that is why I think asset allocation matters so much.\n We are living in a time of high inflation and currency depreciation. If we just leave money sitting in a savings account, the number may look safe, but the purchasing power is quietly shrinking. For example, maybe 1 million dollars can buy a house today, but years later the same house may cost much more, while the interest from savings may not even keep up with inflation.\n That is why I think we have to let our money work in the right places. Since we are in a technology driven era, I do think tech stocks can be a good long term area to pay attention to. Of course, not blindly chasing every trend, but understanding where the world is going and moving with it.\n I always feel that we should follow the pace of the times, not wait until the times push us forward." }, { "id": "t1_op6e4me", "author": "/u/HowDoYouPF", "updated": "2026-06-01T18:49:30+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu1dlc/my_2m_went_up_to_3m_after_i_fired/op6e4me/", "content": "I think the semi-prudent answer here is to evaluate your current FIRE lifestyle/spend and determine if you have enough. Presumably you do, otherwise you wouldn't have FIREd. Now you've lucked out with 50% growth in a single year. Even if you cash out most of that and take the tax hit for the year, you will probably still be way ahead of where you originally planned post-FIRE and can already reap the lifestyle and/or security growth that comes with it. If you let it ride, you're putting that at risk.\n Full disclosure, I'm kind of going through a similar struggle in mentality. I'm FI and almost RE (basically at a very comfortable number but one-more-yearing myself). Part of the growth has been a formerly modest exposure to semiconductor stocks that have lately skyrocketed. I've sort of followed my own advice and trimmed some of it, but the temptation to wait another year for the tax bracket reset before selling more is definitely strong, even though I'm aware that I could sell and diversify most/all of it now and still be at a comfortable RE number after taxes. My prudent and risky selves have definitely been at odds here.\n If I were truly RE already, I'd like to think I would lean a lot harder into the prudent decision, but that's just hypothetical." }, { "id": "t1_op6emlf", "author": "/u/SquareStork", "updated": "2026-06-01T18:52:24+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu1dlc/my_2m_went_up_to_3m_after_i_fired/op6emlf/", "content": "To be honest I was waiting until end of year to sell my big tech investments due to tax planning purposes. I didn’t expect them to go up so much and now I should reconsider what to do" }, { "id": "t1_op6idf6", "author": "/u/compoundedinterest12", "updated": "2026-06-01T19:14:07+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu1dlc/my_2m_went_up_to_3m_after_i_fired/op6idf6/", "content": "For my own edification, what would be the tax benefit of creating a realization event with a gain? Do you have losses to balance with?" }, { "id": "t1_op6kp6d", "author": "/u/bumpman2", "updated": "2026-06-01T19:25:45+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu1dlc/my_2m_went_up_to_3m_after_i_fired/op6kp6d/", "content": "Diversification is the primary benefit that makes tax realization worthwhile. If you are not properly diversified and want to be, do not let the tax tail wag the dog. I know too many people who waited because they didn’t want to pay cap gains and got crushed when their concentrated bets cratered." }, { "id": "t1_op78iqg", "author": "/u/compoundedinterest12", "updated": "2026-06-01T21:14:58+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu1dlc/my_2m_went_up_to_3m_after_i_fired/op78iqg/", "content": "To me, that's not tax planning as the OP stated. That's just basic personal finance management." }, { "id": "t1_op6x359", "author": "/u/DigmonsDrill", "updated": "2026-06-01T20:22:13+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu1dlc/my_2m_went_up_to_3m_after_i_fired/op6x359/", "content": "You already have them as LTCG so further gaming will have diminishing returns.\n There are professionals who can help you diversify without an immediate sell event, like a particular set of options.\n Ask yourself: if the stock fell 10%, would that be worth whatever tax scheme I'm cooking up?\n (There are also exchange funds but $1M is probably not big enough.)" }, { "id": "t1_op70c2q", "author": "/u/SquareStork", "updated": "2026-06-01T20:36:57+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu1dlc/my_2m_went_up_to_3m_after_i_fired/op70c2q/", "content": "Who should I contact to help me diversify without a sell event? CPA, tax advisor or someone else?" }, { "id": "t1_op7466q", "author": "/u/DigmonsDrill", "updated": "2026-06-01T20:54:30+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu1dlc/my_2m_went_up_to_3m_after_i_fired/op7466q/", "content": "This is generally beyond CPA firepower. A wealth manager, who I've tried to avoid, but they could do this.\n As a first approximation, look at what it would cost to buy protective puts at the current price set to expire in 3 months, then in 6 months. It might cost you 7% of your stock to get a protective put that lasts through the end of the year, that is worth nothing if the stock goes up or that offsets your losses (minus the money you paid) if it goes down. Is it still worth the squeeze?" }, { "id": "t1_opb0vpq", "author": "/u/213737isPrime", "updated": "2026-06-02T12:26:32+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu1dlc/my_2m_went_up_to_3m_after_i_fired/opb0vpq/", "content": "Cambria, maybe" }, { "id": "t1_op6fje1", "author": "/u/Equivalent-Ad-3297", "updated": "2026-06-01T18:57:42+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu1dlc/my_2m_went_up_to_3m_after_i_fired/op6fje1/", "content": "Just want to add that you might want to pull out profits for long term gains taxes. Then reallocate and reinvest..." }, { "id": "t1_op6h6h9", "author": "/u/SmartRefuse", "updated": "2026-06-01T19:07:18+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu1dlc/my_2m_went_up_to_3m_after_i_fired/op6h6h9/", "content": "Sell the individual stocks immediately - you took a risk and won, take the $ and run" }, { "id": "t1_op6j9ft", "author": "/u/Agile-Secret7765", "updated": "2026-06-01T19:18:46+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu1dlc/my_2m_went_up_to_3m_after_i_fired/op6j9ft/", "content": "Take your profits and at least diversify. Don’t let greed negatively impact you." }, { "id": "t1_op6l6l5", "author": "/u/Cake_And_Pi", "updated": "2026-06-01T19:28:01+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu1dlc/my_2m_went_up_to_3m_after_i_fired/op6l6l5/", "content": "I’d say keep your 25x in the market and put 1/2 the overage in bonds or something safer." }, { "id": "t1_op6p4pu", "author": "/u/RobertClarks", "updated": "2026-06-01T19:46:15+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu1dlc/my_2m_went_up_to_3m_after_i_fired/op6p4pu/", "content": "The hardest part of FIRE is going from worrying you'll run out of money to worrying you have too much money in stocks. Stick it out so you can join FatFire\n Congrats on the terrible problem." }, { "id": "t1_op6x75m", "author": "/u/Singularity-42", "updated": "2026-06-01T20:22:44+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu1dlc/my_2m_went_up_to_3m_after_i_fired/op6x75m/", "content": "I'm at 1.7M now, was 1M just a bit over a year ago. This bull market is crazy." }, { "id": "t1_op6xol6", "author": "/u/warlizardfanboy", "updated": "2026-06-01T20:24:56+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu1dlc/my_2m_went_up_to_3m_after_i_fired/op6xol6/", "content": "I’d move half of big tech to something less volatile. You won, congrats!" }, { "id": "t1_op6ya9c", "author": "/u/entropic", "updated": "2026-06-01T20:27:39+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu1dlc/my_2m_went_up_to_3m_after_i_fired/op6ya9c/", "content": "Should I consider selling to lock in the profits? Any advice?\n What I'd do: de-risk and diversify.\n What you'll do: probably not that, because you FIRE'd on a stock indexes and individual stocks anyway. You've clearly got a risk appetite that isn't like mine." }, { "id": "t1_op75tbv", "author": "/u/Retired-Yam8988", "updated": "2026-06-01T21:02:08+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu1dlc/my_2m_went_up_to_3m_after_i_fired/op75tbv/", "content": "Lol compounding has nothing to do with it. I fired with about 6m in 2022 and I’m quickly approaching 12m. We’re on a the crazy train to AI land and no one seems to be able to tell us when this ride ends." }, { "id": "t1_op7csmk", "author": "/u/OneImportance4061", "updated": "2026-06-01T21:35:36+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu1dlc/my_2m_went_up_to_3m_after_i_fired/op7csmk/", "content": "If you are already FI and RE then I will just remind you of the old adage... Pigs get fat, hogs get slaughtered. You gonna do what you gonna do but if that had happened to me I would definitely move a substantial amount to safety. I am not saying half or anything like it - but if you are already set and now have much more than you thought you would at this point it makes sense to take a little off the table." }, { "id": "t1_op7ohxd", "author": "/u/theprogrammingsteak", "updated": "2026-06-01T22:36:12+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu1dlc/my_2m_went_up_to_3m_after_i_fired/op7ohxd/", "content": "That's not compounding lol" }, { "id": "t1_op9d7l9", "author": "/u/Forsaken_Amoeba_38", "updated": "2026-06-02T04:47:13+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu1dlc/my_2m_went_up_to_3m_after_i_fired/op9d7l9/", "content": "Will you be ok if your portfolio drops 60%, 70%. Maybe add a liquidity portfolio. Sounds like your cost of living is low if you could retire on $2MM" }, { "id": "t1_opb9tjj", "author": "/u/shotparrot", "updated": "2026-06-02T13:14:17+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu1dlc/my_2m_went_up_to_3m_after_i_fired/opb9tjj/", "content": "Retiring with only $2M is incredibly risky. Glad your dice roll paid off.\n Time to exit the market now?" }, { "id": "t1_op9j1we", "author": "/u/NorthvilleGolf", "updated": "2026-06-02T05:32:00+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu1dlc/my_2m_went_up_to_3m_after_i_fired/op9j1we/", "content": "Definitely trim some major gains." }, { "id": "t1_op6hzg8", "author": "/u/ConcentrateOk523", "updated": "2026-06-01T19:11:59+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu1dlc/my_2m_went_up_to_3m_after_i_fired/op6hzg8/", "content": "I just retired and am 80 percent stocks. I would easily be over 4 million if it was not for BND and BNDX. I am just tired of bond funds. Will stay with stock allocation because all I see is an up stock market." }, { "id": "t1_op6lks5", "author": "/u/Reasonable_Box2568", "updated": "2026-06-01T19:29:52+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu1dlc/my_2m_went_up_to_3m_after_i_fired/op6lks5/", "content": "Be fearful when others are greedy" }, { "id": "t1_op6nkd5", "author": "/u/bumpman2", "updated": "2026-06-01T19:39:08+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu1dlc/my_2m_went_up_to_3m_after_i_fired/op6nkd5/", "content": "You chose to retire so presumably you are comfortable with your liquid net worth today. Why reduce your diversification and go all in on the stock market? Just to chase additional gains at the expense of exposing yourself to sequence of returns risk? That does not seem like a great idea." }, { "id": "t1_op6l7si", "author": "/u/VT_Squire", "updated": "2026-06-01T19:28:10+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu1dlc/my_2m_went_up_to_3m_after_i_fired/op6l7si/", "content": "Should I consider selling to lock in the profits? Any advice?\n I mean, I would. The news just came out that a lot of people's retirements are about to get fucked because they're being funneled into Grok while removing the usual US regulatory requirements.\n The chain:\n\n- You (retiree) buy what feels like a safe annuity from Athene\n- Athene quietly ships your premium money and $217B in assets to a Bermuda captive insurer (Athene Annuity Re) — moving the risk offshore and off their balance sheet\n- Apollo (who owns Athene) directs those Bermuda assets into its own private credit funds, collecting massive fees along the way\n- Apollo then uses that capital to raise $3.5B in debt for a company called Valor (VCI) — a special purpose vehicle\n- Valor buys 100,000+ NVIDIA GB200 GPUs ($5.4B worth), with Nvidia also kicking in $1.9B as an equity investor\n- Those GPUs get leased to xAI (Elon Musk's Grok AI), which pays all the running costs Burry's core complaint:\n\n- Retirees think they own safe, liquid assets — but their money is actually backing illiquid, hard-to-price private credit deals (34.7% is "Level 3" — meaning no real market price exists )\n- Apollo earns fees at every step\n- The risk has been quietly moved to Bermuda, away from US insurance regulators\n- The whole thing is dressed up as "hallmark, downside-protected" investing TL;DR: Grandma's annuity is funding Grok, Apollo is getting paid 6x in fees, and nobody told grandma.\n If your funds are over in that direction, you may want to course-correct that." }, { "id": "t1_op6ucoq", "author": "/u/nopigscannnotlookup", "updated": "2026-06-01T20:09:52+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu1dlc/my_2m_went_up_to_3m_after_i_fired/op6ucoq/", "content": "Come on man. It’s only speculation at this point. If you want to play conspiracy theory, you do know that Burry has a ton of NVdia puts right? And would highly benefit from a collapse that he’s speculating on?" }, { "id": "t1_op6vr6j", "author": "/u/VT_Squire", "updated": "2026-06-01T20:16:12+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu1dlc/my_2m_went_up_to_3m_after_i_fired/op6vr6j/", "content": "Burry's argument is that the elderly are clueless about their retirement funds. When did that suddenly become false?" }, { "id": "t1_opafznl", "author": "/u/Strazdas1", "updated": "2026-06-02T10:08:55+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu1dlc/my_2m_went_up_to_3m_after_i_fired/opafznl/", "content": "They were always clueless. That never stopped the funds before." }, { "id": "t1_op6mei2", "author": "/u/OkStrategy3444", "updated": "2026-06-01T19:33:43+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu1dlc/my_2m_went_up_to_3m_after_i_fired/op6mei2/", "content": "Why sell investments that are working and may continue to work? You don’t even need the money since you fired at 2m, so risk is not a problem. I see no reason to sell and pay taxes now." }, { "id": "t1_op6mqgx", "author": "/u/NYSkiBlog", "updated": "2026-06-01T19:35:15+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu1dlc/my_2m_went_up_to_3m_after_i_fired/op6mqgx/", "content": "Adding bonds is most logical IMO. Some intermediate and some short term tips.\n For your stock portion you could sell index funds or tech stocks and buy VVIAX. Not tech free but would add balance." }, { "id": "t1_op6n47w", "author": "/u/_freckles__", "updated": "2026-06-01T19:37:02+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu1dlc/my_2m_went_up_to_3m_after_i_fired/op6n47w/", "content": "Just take 1mn and lock in some bond funds and stable income funds. 1mn move to safer indexes like VT where drawdown is less and the remaining 1mn just let is ride in whatever you want to invest in.\n The big part about playing in the casino is to know when to call it. It is time to call it on 2mn and diversify. You are not getting away from the game, just diversifying.\n Better now to lock in those gains. you have already won the money game" }, { "id": "t1_op6p9ta", "author": "/u/ferrx", "updated": "2026-06-01T19:46:53+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu1dlc/my_2m_went_up_to_3m_after_i_fired/op6p9ta/", "content": "With inflation up, 3M is the new 2M." }, { "id": "t1_op6v2m6", "author": "/u/Striking_Use8614", "updated": "2026-06-01T20:13:09+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu1dlc/my_2m_went_up_to_3m_after_i_fired/op6v2m6/", "content": "Sorr the same since I FIRE'ed 2 months ago i my NW went up 100k it made me feel better about my decision." }, { "id": "t1_op6wike", "author": "/u/dellscreenshot", "updated": "2026-06-01T20:19:39+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu1dlc/my_2m_went_up_to_3m_after_i_fired/op6wike/", "content": "I was a looking at investment calculators and the difference between contributing doesn't really impact the end ten year amount that much. At some point compounding takes over." }, { "id": "t1_op6xb36", "author": "/u/NecessaryEmployer488", "updated": "2026-06-01T20:23:14+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu1dlc/my_2m_went_up_to_3m_after_i_fired/op6xb36/", "content": "Well I have some S&P funds an 401K as stable funds. I also have a high BETA stock from my employer. Earlier this year the value was $600K and now it is $1.8M. I took $250K out while the value was going up. This is withdrawing 5% everything it goes up 25%.\n I assume this is in a brokerage account. My advice is create a withdraw strategy of 1% a quarter or $10K a month. Try to keep your overall income including LTCG under $250K in the US." }, { "id": "t1_op6yo4y", "author": "/u/Pale_Drink4455", "updated": "2026-06-01T20:29:24+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu1dlc/my_2m_went_up_to_3m_after_i_fired/op6yo4y/", "content": "My money in VOO didn’t double in a flipping year! What am I doing wrong? And my NVDA, Amazon, PLTR and Microsoft didn’t either. What am I doing wrong like this guy to grow his portfolio by a million without a penny into it for savings?" }, { "id": "t1_op6zedf", "author": "/u/ForeverPrior2279", "updated": "2026-06-01T20:32:41+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu1dlc/my_2m_went_up_to_3m_after_i_fired/op6zedf/", "content": "I wish I had like 300k so I can start snowballing like you while you could make it back without breaking a sweat" }, { "id": "t1_op736u4", "author": "/u/Green_Bluebird5804", "updated": "2026-06-01T20:50:01+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu1dlc/my_2m_went_up_to_3m_after_i_fired/op736u4/", "content": "depends on your plan" }, { "id": "t1_op74po5", "author": "/u/AUCE05", "updated": "2026-06-01T20:56:59+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu1dlc/my_2m_went_up_to_3m_after_i_fired/op74po5/", "content": "Do you have a pension? You could transfer a million to a safer holding (schd, bonds, etc) and keep 2M in equities. That is what I would do." }, { "id": "t1_op77bh8", "author": "/u/Butterscotch786", "updated": "2026-06-01T21:09:15+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu1dlc/my_2m_went_up_to_3m_after_i_fired/op77bh8/", "content": "I guess thats what they mean when they say 'Rich become richer' !!!!\n Congrats." }, { "id": "t1_op7994b", "author": "/u/Elnino43", "updated": "2026-06-01T21:18:28+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu1dlc/my_2m_went_up_to_3m_after_i_fired/op7994b/", "content": "Nice!" }, { "id": "t1_op7b8l3", "author": "/u/ThereforeIV", "updated": "2026-06-01T21:27:59+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu1dlc/my_2m_went_up_to_3m_after_i_fired/op7b8l3/", "content": "This is the more common scenario.\n Everyone stressed out over the 5% of RE dates that result in running out of more; they completely ignore that the majority of RE dates results in your portfolio growing faster than you could reasonably spend it.\n Look where are are now compared to your initial retirement portfolio at RE; how big of a market correction would it take to put up in danger?\n Cause I'm thinking a 20% drop from this high doesn't even cause you to cut spending..." }, { "id": "t1_op7dhfl", "author": "/u/DoNothingAtWork8346", "updated": "2026-06-01T21:39:03+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu1dlc/my_2m_went_up_to_3m_after_i_fired/op7dhfl/", "content": "yes but not everyones account grows 1M in a year without compound interest.. so its a combination of both.." }, { "id": "t1_op7fu0s", "author": "/u/Dry-Yak-7014", "updated": "2026-06-01T21:50:45+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu1dlc/my_2m_went_up_to_3m_after_i_fired/op7fu0s/", "content": "I watched someone close to me retire early, pay cash for a small house, buy a moderate car (subaru), and live within their means. When the market would go on a run up, they'd sell a couple years worth of expenses to keep in a money market account and live off of. It gave them peace of mind, safety net, etc etc and the portfolio still went up over the years.\n If you're loving seeing the money, move some to safety/take some profits while you can and live with that peace of mind." }, { "id": "t1_op7qob7", "author": "/u/Negative-Dingo3335", "updated": "2026-06-01T22:47:59+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu1dlc/my_2m_went_up_to_3m_after_i_fired/op7qob7/", "content": "Account said “YOU WANT TO BRING ME DOWN!?! WE’ll see about that!”" }, { "id": "t1_op7sb1d", "author": "/u/Excellent-Piece8168", "updated": "2026-06-01T22:56:52+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu1dlc/my_2m_went_up_to_3m_after_i_fired/op7sb1d/", "content": "Seems odd to me that you’re returned 50% on your 2 million when only 75% is even in equities, doesn’t seem like some ETF you are holding in retirement…" }, { "id": "t1_op7xpk6", "author": "/u/AurumFlowInvest", "updated": "2026-06-01T23:26:38+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu1dlc/my_2m_went_up_to_3m_after_i_fired/op7xpk6/", "content": "One thing a lot of investors struggle with after a huge run-up is distinguishing between “taking profits” and simply rebalancing back to their intended allocation.\n If your portfolio drifted much more towards tech or is more equity heavy than you originally planned, trimming/rebalancing doesn’t necessarily mean you’ve become bearish, it can just mean you’re managing risk." }, { "id": "t1_op7y7gm", "author": "/u/bondtradercu", "updated": "2026-06-01T23:29:25+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu1dlc/my_2m_went_up_to_3m_after_i_fired/op7y7gm/", "content": "What are you investing in? Just ETFs or some single name stocks too" }, { "id": "t1_op87z01", "author": "/u/NaorobeFranz", "updated": "2026-06-02T00:25:27+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu1dlc/my_2m_went_up_to_3m_after_i_fired/op87z01/", "content": "They wrote 2/3 ETF. 1/3 big tech. Usually ppl that post don't share what they invest in, extremely rare. More of ego stroke than sharing of how ." }, { "id": "t1_op7zoxz", "author": "/u/makomark26", "updated": "2026-06-01T23:37:47+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu1dlc/my_2m_went_up_to_3m_after_i_fired/op7zoxz/", "content": "Things are getting pretty high . Could they go higher ? Absolutely . Simple question for us all. When are they going down ? If the straight opens soon . We will be good . New fed, Iran , Elections on the table to cause volatility . You never go broke taking a profit . -) I've trimmed PLTR, MU, TWILIO" }, { "id": "t1_op84uxu", "author": "/u/Kokukenji", "updated": "2026-06-02T00:07:22+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu1dlc/my_2m_went_up_to_3m_after_i_fired/op84uxu/", "content": "You’ve done well for yourself." }, { "id": "t1_op88a76", "author": "/u/Dazzling-Look9734", "updated": "2026-06-02T00:27:17+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu1dlc/my_2m_went_up_to_3m_after_i_fired/op88a76/", "content": "Sounds like the ideal time to have retired. I'd personally withdraw my entire years "salary" right now and just let the account continue to do whatever it does. Even if you drop back down to 2M, you're still way ahead." }, { "id": "t1_op89u84", "author": "/u/yadiyoda", "updated": "2026-06-02T00:36:33+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu1dlc/my_2m_went_up_to_3m_after_i_fired/op89u84/", "content": "Are you mentally prepared for a reverse 3 to 2?" }, { "id": "t1_op8a9mx", "author": "/u/Ialsoreadtheonion", "updated": "2026-06-02T00:39:08+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu1dlc/my_2m_went_up_to_3m_after_i_fired/op8a9mx/", "content": "Find an independent advisor and pay them a tiny fraction of your wealth in return for them helping you to figure out what you want to do. If you do t like them or they start trying to sell you stuff you don’t want, walk out and try another one." }, { "id": "t1_op8xfck", "author": "/u/Top-Rope6148", "updated": "2026-06-02T02:58:52+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu1dlc/my_2m_went_up_to_3m_after_i_fired/op8xfck/", "content": "You fired with only $2MM? At what age?" }, { "id": "t1_op957qu", "author": "/u/obijon298", "updated": "2026-06-02T03:50:35+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu1dlc/my_2m_went_up_to_3m_after_i_fired/op957qu/", "content": "I am very interested in the Cederberg paper, which advocates for an all-stock portfolio with NO bonds and a 50/50 mix of domestic and foreign stock via broad ETFs for diversification.\n The premise is that returns over time offset the downside limiting effect of bonds. You end up with more at retirement, which survives dips even with the higher volatility.\n The key is that it only works if you are the type that can stomach massive drops without selling dips.\n No idea if this is something that would appeal to you, but figured I'd share." }, { "id": "t1_op97a4v", "author": "/u/cloverloop", "updated": "2026-06-02T04:04:45+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu1dlc/my_2m_went_up_to_3m_after_i_fired/op97a4v/", "content": "The market rises irregularly. Some years it may rise 20%. Others it drips 5%.\n Selling will mean you need to pay capital gains taxes. I would recommend holding unless you have somewhere better to out the money." }, { "id": "t1_op97uo3", "author": "/u/00rb", "updated": "2026-06-02T04:08:43+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu1dlc/my_2m_went_up_to_3m_after_i_fired/op97uo3/", "content": "Dump big tech for index. Index funds are already big tech." }, { "id": "t1_op9l5f4", "author": "/u/Nuclear_N", "updated": "2026-06-02T05:48:37+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu1dlc/my_2m_went_up_to_3m_after_i_fired/op9l5f4/", "content": "Somebody has to call the top. I have been selling back myself." }, { "id": "t1_op9se0b", "author": "/u/Kriya198888", "updated": "2026-06-02T06:47:40+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu1dlc/my_2m_went_up_to_3m_after_i_fired/op9se0b/", "content": "What your porfolio looks like ?" }, { "id": "t1_op9szt0", "author": "/u/Eagle-watching", "updated": "2026-06-02T06:52:41+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu1dlc/my_2m_went_up_to_3m_after_i_fired/op9szt0/", "content": "The markets have been doing well this year. Too soon to sell winners. You might check for out of favor atocks ayou have and see if you want to sell some portion or all of some of them.\n I have been switching out of some falling stocks that had done well for me in the past. Paying tax on gains and buying chip and memory stocks like MU, WDC, SNDK, STX. NVDA started jumping up. You could also buy Phili semi conductor ETF SOXQ." }, { "id": "t1_opb2w4c", "author": "/u/pp1971", "updated": "2026-06-02T12:37:48+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu1dlc/my_2m_went_up_to_3m_after_i_fired/opb2w4c/", "content": "Same. I have made more money in my retirement accounts then I did working in the past two years. Already up 100k this year." }, { "id": "t1_opb7w8w", "author": "/u/Alternative-Law4626", "updated": "2026-06-02T13:04:25+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu1dlc/my_2m_went_up_to_3m_after_i_fired/opb7w8w/", "content": "I rotated to a more conservative allocation to lock in gains and take some risk off the table." }, { "id": "t1_opbut7e", "author": "/u/Grand_Master_Gosh", "updated": "2026-06-02T14:54:15+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu1dlc/my_2m_went_up_to_3m_after_i_fired/opbut7e/", "content": "that jump is nice but dont let it bait u into over-allocating to tech if u want that money to actually last. when i decided to diversify my portfolio out of just stocks i started lookin at property in europe. using rov group actually helped me move some funds into real estate without dealin with typical bank delays, which felt way more secure for long-term holding. keepin at least a few years of expenses in cash is boring but it really does let u sleep at night through these bull runs" }, { "id": "t1_opc8z77", "author": "/u/RichAdults", "updated": "2026-06-02T15:56:49+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu1dlc/my_2m_went_up_to_3m_after_i_fired/opc8z77/", "content": "What index funds are you in" }, { "id": "t1_opcaoqm", "author": "/u/Separate-Date1217", "updated": "2026-06-02T16:04:15+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu1dlc/my_2m_went_up_to_3m_after_i_fired/opcaoqm/", "content": "Since 2023 October, the market is in this crazy bull run, as many folks said in this thread the singing will stop at some point and the boat will start sinking. Only question is can you / do you want to time the last lifeboat? I think this market has 1 more year of bull run left, but there is a 50% change I am wrong 😄 . We are going through another Industrial revolution and the AI led disruption is real. Personally I would watch for Fed rate to go above 5% to combat inflation, then the AI stocks will plummet as the cost of borrowing goes up" }, { "id": "t1_opck7ar", "author": "/u/Kingking421", "updated": "2026-06-02T16:45:51+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu1dlc/my_2m_went_up_to_3m_after_i_fired/opck7ar/", "content": "Dont sell. Use your $3million and take loans against it. Interest rate will be lower tham long term capital gains. I guess how long you plan to pay it back is key…." }, { "id": "t1_opgcdat", "author": "/u/Technical-Fly-6835", "updated": "2026-06-03T04:27:28+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu1dlc/my_2m_went_up_to_3m_after_i_fired/opgcdat/", "content": "Could you please elaborate. How much will interest on the loan be? And what to do with the money from the loan? When to pay it back? If I take loan against my stocks, what happens to those stocks." }, { "id": "t1_opcwlap", "author": "/u/rekoil", "updated": "2026-06-02T17:39:34+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu1dlc/my_2m_went_up_to_3m_after_i_fired/opcwlap/", "content": "The fact that my portfolio is up 2.5% over just the last month has me a bit nervous. As someone who survived the dot-com bubble, this feels *very* similar." }, { "id": "t1_opcxqtv", "author": "/u/SquareStork", "updated": "2026-06-02T17:44:32+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu1dlc/my_2m_went_up_to_3m_after_i_fired/opcxqtv/", "content": "Have you done anything about it or just stayed the course?" }, { "id": "t1_opcxykq", "author": "/u/rekoil", "updated": "2026-06-02T17:45:26+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu1dlc/my_2m_went_up_to_3m_after_i_fired/opcxykq/", "content": "Meeting with my advisor later this week about it. I'm sure he's going to recommend some de-risking." }, { "id": "t1_opd3ht6", "author": "/u/cannibalparrot", "updated": "2026-06-02T18:09:18+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu1dlc/my_2m_went_up_to_3m_after_i_fired/opd3ht6/", "content": "If you’re retired you might consider moving your stuff to something less…volatile?" }, { "id": "t1_opdpysp", "author": "/u/heiko75_hs", "updated": "2026-06-02T19:49:53+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu1dlc/my_2m_went_up_to_3m_after_i_fired/opdpysp/", "content": "It's a major bull run. But Ou participate while 80% or more of mankind does not. So be happy 🤗" }, { "id": "t1_opevyz2", "author": "/u/Ok_Benefit_8515", "updated": "2026-06-02T23:16:15+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu1dlc/my_2m_went_up_to_3m_after_i_fired/opevyz2/", "content": "Spend more" }, { "id": "t1_opf2lnj", "author": "/u/LongViewLogic", "updated": "2026-06-02T23:53:06+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu1dlc/my_2m_went_up_to_3m_after_i_fired/opf2lnj/", "content": "nice problem to have, but i’d probably avoid letting one great year rewrite the whole plan. if the original 2m plan was already solid, this is buffer. if the plan now only feels safe because markets ripped, that’s different. maybe sell enough tech to sleep better, not because you can perfectly time anything" }, { "id": "t1_opffyik", "author": "/u/PrismaticSpire", "updated": "2026-06-03T01:08:23+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu1dlc/my_2m_went_up_to_3m_after_i_fired/opffyik/", "content": "lol all of these posts about “the power of the market” during a tremendous run up. 😁" }, { "id": "t1_opfxbc1", "author": "/u/Practical-Ad-5299", "updated": "2026-06-03T02:48:30+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu1dlc/my_2m_went_up_to_3m_after_i_fired/opfxbc1/", "content": "I keep about two years cash in money market and 35% in bonds now that I am retired. I just trimmed some money this past month but have to watch iirma and now that my husband has to take rmd" }, { "id": "t1_opg4rtr", "author": "/u/spartybasketball", "updated": "2026-06-03T03:36:00+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu1dlc/my_2m_went_up_to_3m_after_i_fired/opg4rtr/", "content": "Dollar cost average out the areas you are overweight." }, { "id": "t1_opg9lw7", "author": "/u/teckel", "updated": "2026-06-03T04:08:20+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu1dlc/my_2m_went_up_to_3m_after_i_fired/opg9lw7/", "content": "My 3M fire went to 12M" }, { "id": "t1_opg9ogj", "author": "/u/Powerful-Bridge-1472", "updated": "2026-06-03T04:08:49+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu1dlc/my_2m_went_up_to_3m_after_i_fired/opg9ogj/", "content": "Never a terrible time to double check your diversification now" }, { "id": "t1_ophaoh2", "author": "/u/bagelbrunch", "updated": "2026-06-03T09:05:14+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu1dlc/my_2m_went_up_to_3m_after_i_fired/ophaoh2/", "content": "you have a couple good options:\n 1) do nothing\n 2) rebalance your portfolio to your pre-specified desired asset allocation (stocks vs. bonds vs. cash)\n 3) diversify within your current equity holdings\n 1) Is a good option because the old adage, "Don't just do something -- stand there!", is usually good advice with long-term investing. Doing something just because you are getting antsy is often counterproductive.\n 2) is a reasonable habit because rebalancing prevents you from gradually developing a risk exposure you don't want to or can't tolerate. most portfolios tend to grow over time more lopsided towards the most growth-oriented asset class, but this also tends to be the riskiest. So if you decided that your risk tolerance was for a 75/25 portfolio, when stocks go crazy, you all of a sudden have an 85/15 portfolio, which is a meaningful increase in exposure. Rebalancing also has the added benefit of forcing you to sell one asset that is overperforming and buy an asset that is underperforming or "on sale."\n 3) is important to think about. a lot of the capitalization in a US total index at the moment is being driven by the tech giants. So owning 2/3 total market index and 1/3 tech tilt is effectively doubling down on that one very dominant sector at the moment. You could consider simplifying to a pure 100% total market strategy, or adding international, or tilting towards small cap or value funds. Each has upsides and downsides.\n Most other options that might seem promising are likely counterproductive. Investors that sock away cash feel safe, but the math ultimately always leaves them poorer in the long run, especially on a FIRE type timeline. This is why a "bucket strategy" leaving aside X number of years worth of spending in cash or cash equivalent is inferior to keeping your portfolio invested (at whatever allocation you can tolerate). Just sell what you need for expenses when you need it.\n Selling to "lock in" profits only guarantees that you are locking in a big tax bill." } ] }, { "source": "r/Fire hot", "id": "t3_1tuq4ac", "title": "Figuring tax estimates on withdrawls", "author": "/u/pooping_turtles", "updated": "2026-06-02T12:55:05+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tuq4ac/figuring_tax_estimates_on_withdrawls/", "content": "Hi all, I'm curious to hear what different ppl do to estimate their actual withdrawl need amount, specifically, how they factor in any estimated taxes. I track how much I spend, for example with easy numbers, lets say I know I need to dpend 50k a year to live my current lifestyle, so I know I need to withdrawl that much + enough to cover the taxes on withdrawing that much. In early retirement this will come from a brokerage account, but later retirement it will come from a 401k, which are taxed differently adding to confusion. Right now I just estimate I need 20% more than my spend rate to cover taxes, so on this case I would need to plan for 60k withdraws to live a 50k lifestyle. Is that way off do you think? What do you all do?\n EDIT Id like tp clarify Im most interested in methods ppl have used to account for potentil taxes on their planning. My actual retirement plans probably mix some international living, some years where my wife might work with high income, and potentially withdrawing much more than 50k between my wife and me. Sorry for confusion, I tried to keep initial post very simple, but perhaps it was too simple.\n submitted by /u/pooping_turtles\n [link] [comments]", "contentHtml": "

Hi all, I'm curious to hear what different ppl do to estimate their actual withdrawl need amount, specifically, how they factor in any estimated taxes. I track how much I spend, for example with easy numbers, lets say I know I need to dpend 50k a year to live my current lifestyle, so I know I need to withdrawl that much + enough to cover the taxes on withdrawing that much. In early retirement this will come from a brokerage account, but later retirement it will come from a 401k, which are taxed differently adding to confusion. Right now I just estimate I need 20% more than my spend rate to cover taxes, so on this case I would need to plan for 60k withdraws to live a 50k lifestyle. Is that way off do you think? What do you all do?

EDIT Id like tp clarify Im most interested in methods ppl have used to account for potentil taxes on their planning. My actual retirement plans probably mix some international living, some years where my wife might work with high income, and potentially withdrawing much more than 50k between my wife and me. Sorry for confusion, I tried to keep initial post very simple, but perhaps it was too simple.

submitted by /u/pooping_turtles
[link] [comments]", "comments": [ { "id": "t1_opbesdo", "author": "/u/khbuzzard", "updated": "2026-06-02T13:39:00+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tuq4ac/figuring_tax_estimates_on_withdrawls/opbesdo/", "content": "If you're living off funds in a brokerage account, you don't pay taxes on the entire withdrawal, only the capital gain (i.e., the amount the account grew in value beyond your original contribution). So if you withdraw $50K, only a portion of that will even be taxable income.\n Furthermore, the 0% bracket on capital gains is huge (almost $50K for singles, almost $100K for married filing jointly) - and that's on top of your deductions (standard or itemized, depending on your situation) that reduce your taxable income.\n So for the situation you describe, it sounds like your federal tax bill will be $0. (Your state-tax mileage may vary, of course.) And you might want to consider using some of your spare capacity in the 0% tax bracket to do Roth conversions and/or tax-gain harvesting to reduce your tax liability in future years." }, { "id": "t1_opbmcpv", "author": "/u/Future-Run-8601", "updated": "2026-06-02T14:15:27+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tuq4ac/figuring_tax_estimates_on_withdrawls/opbmcpv/", "content": "Yeah tax rates can be quite low if you have the right amounts of income from the right accounts. Even as a single filer, if your regular income is just above the standard deduction, the next ~$35k of capital gains is tax free. Then the rest (for 99% of us) is 15%. So you could pull $100k from accounts and only pay 7.5% tax." }, { "id": "t1_opbt5bh", "author": "/u/Strazdas1", "updated": "2026-06-02T14:46:43+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tuq4ac/figuring_tax_estimates_on_withdrawls/opbt5bh/", "content": "If you have been accumulating gains for a long time like most of us by the time we retire the vast majority of withdrawal will be unrealized gains.\n US does have pretty nice capital gains tax free range, we dont have any such here. 15% on first euro, 20% above certain treshold." }, { "id": "t1_opb897d", "author": "/u/asurkhaib", "updated": "2026-06-02T13:06:18+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tuq4ac/figuring_tax_estimates_on_withdrawls/opb897d/", "content": "You calculate or estimate it. Expecting a 20% tax rate off of spend is insane and shows a fundamental misunderstanding of how taxes work." }, { "id": "t1_opbsp3u", "author": "/u/Strazdas1", "updated": "2026-06-02T14:44:39+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tuq4ac/figuring_tax_estimates_on_withdrawls/opbsp3u/", "content": "I plan all withdrawals to be unrealized gains because over long enough period they will be and my country has a flat 15% rate up to certain treshold for all capital gains realization. So a 15% on top of spending actually works great." }, { "id": "t1_opbh3q9", "author": "/u/pooping_turtles", "updated": "2026-06-02T13:50:22+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tuq4ac/figuring_tax_estimates_on_withdrawls/opbh3q9/", "content": "Thanks, my poor understanding is why im asking questions, too bad you didnt actually enlighten me. Your response shows a poor understanding of how learning works. For instance care to throw out a tax estimate amount or rule of thumb you have and why?" }, { "id": "t1_opbkhlm", "author": "/u/McKnuckle_Brewery", "updated": "2026-06-02T14:06:37+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tuq4ac/figuring_tax_estimates_on_withdrawls/opbkhlm/", "content": "Tax estimates and rules of thumb are not the answer, though. That’s the point they are trying to make.\n Taxes are calculated using relatively simple math, and there are online tools such as the tax calculator at AARP that will do it for you. Nothing beats truly understanding the calculations versus estimating.\n For someone to provide the type of answer you are probably hoping for, they would have to exhaustively explain with a long post." }, { "id": "t1_opbo9qx", "author": "/u/pooping_turtles", "updated": "2026-06-02T14:24:19+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tuq4ac/figuring_tax_estimates_on_withdrawls/opbo9qx/", "content": "Thanks, I had no idea those existed. I have only recently gotten to the part where I think about withdrawls at all and its been very difficult to try and figure out even where to start." }, { "id": "t1_opbjfk3", "author": "/u/asurkhaib", "updated": "2026-06-02T14:01:33+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tuq4ac/figuring_tax_estimates_on_withdrawls/opbjfk3/", "content": "Am I supposed to walk you through how taxes work? Google is right there. It's not hard to search tax calculator. If you want something FIRE specific then use Boldin or ProjectionLab." }, { "id": "t1_opbnm5d", "author": "/u/pooping_turtles", "updated": "2026-06-02T14:21:19+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tuq4ac/figuring_tax_estimates_on_withdrawls/opbnm5d/", "content": "Thank you for the actually useful and actionable information friend!" }, { "id": "t1_opbodt7", "author": "/u/LoetherS", "updated": "2026-06-02T14:24:51+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tuq4ac/figuring_tax_estimates_on_withdrawls/opbodt7/", "content": "I can try to explain breifly how progressive tax works on Long term capital gains in the US.\n So if I buy a share of VOO for $100 and then sell it when it is at $300 I will only pay tax on the gain. So the taxable income is $200. This assumes it was in a regular investment account. The progressive tax system in the US charges the lower rates on the first bits of income and then increases this each new chunk. So if I only sold the one share and it gained $200 then I would be in the lowest tax bracket and would pay the lowest rate. 0% you pay nothing for the first 48k of income and then 15% for everything over 48k and below 533k. This is if you are single. If you file maried or head of household you can withdraw even more at 0%\n Pretty much i think it is safe to say you will not pay federal taxes if you only withdraw 50k. The two caveats are that laws can change and you need to look up your state long term cap gains rates." }, { "id": "t1_opbrs2u", "author": "/u/pooping_turtles", "updated": "2026-06-02T14:40:32+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tuq4ac/figuring_tax_estimates_on_withdrawls/opbrs2u/", "content": "Thanks for taking the time, I understand how progressive income tax works, I do forget that only gains are taxed, not the starting principal for your brokerage. The example of 50k was just supposed to be an example, but 20% estimate was in my head because, initially my wife will likely still be working with high income and even once i get her to retire as well, we'd probably do a few years in spain which has higher capital gains taxes. Either way, thread was still pretty helpful in seeing all the different things to take into account to help refine my FIRE number." }, { "id": "t1_opbsvck", "author": "/u/LoetherS", "updated": "2026-06-02T14:45:26+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tuq4ac/figuring_tax_estimates_on_withdrawls/opbsvck/", "content": "Jesus. I'm in spain now, love the beach and the food, but can't stay long term due to taxes. And yeah spain has a crazy high cap gains rate 19% to 28% and on top of that a wealth tax. Good luck." }, { "id": "t1_opcccqo", "author": "/u/pooping_turtles", "updated": "2026-06-02T16:11:31+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tuq4ac/figuring_tax_estimates_on_withdrawls/opcccqo/", "content": "Haha, yeah, its a choice, and one of the reasons i always lean very conservative in my estimates. Im learning I might be more of a fat FIRE'er, than a standard FIRE person. Yeah ideally my years in Spain would be before I turn 59.5 when I might still be under the wealth tax amounts. Still, Spain has alot that i like, food, music, walkable cities, plus perfecting my spanish seems like a great project during retirement, and if i pay a bit extra in taxes, thats probably a tradeoff i realistically take and dont regret." }, { "id": "t1_opcj2nc", "author": "/u/LoetherS", "updated": "2026-06-02T16:40:56+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tuq4ac/figuring_tax_estimates_on_withdrawls/opcj2nc/", "content": "Well everyone here is trying to help you, all of assuming us tax law, and 50k a year withdrawals, and now you say thats all wrong you are likely going be pulling more, likely much more and to be a Spanish tax resident?!\n Your tax burden in spain will be multiples higher.\n You should update your post with accurate info if you want to get good advice." }, { "id": "t1_opclfxf", "author": "/u/pooping_turtles", "updated": "2026-06-02T16:51:14+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tuq4ac/figuring_tax_estimates_on_withdrawls/opclfxf/", "content": "I guess i thought I was asking more for ppls methods rather than a calculation with those numbers as I thought good understanding of the methods ppl used would then allow me to apply those same methods to many different situations. Maybe i go to Spain, maybe I dont, maybe my wife keeps working maybe she doesnt, maybe its a bit of all those. My retirement plans arent really set in stone, so was hoping to understand methods do i could better understand what all those different scenarios look like. I will probably update my post to try and make it more generic tho." }, { "id": "t1_opb8a38", "author": "/u/Revolutionary-Fan235", "updated": "2026-06-02T13:06:25+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tuq4ac/figuring_tax_estimates_on_withdrawls/opb8a38/", "content": "Very rough estimate is subtract the standard deduction from your target withdrawal. After accounting for other income like dividends, estimate amount needed from taxable brokerage. Estimate how much of the taxable brokerage withdrawal is gains. You're unlikely to be near the 20% effective tax rate with a $50k annual withdrawal." }, { "id": "t1_opblumm", "author": "/u/pooping_turtles", "updated": "2026-06-02T14:13:05+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tuq4ac/figuring_tax_estimates_on_withdrawls/opblumm/", "content": "Thank you, that is a very detailed approach, I will try that out. If I understand correctly that gives a good estimate for the brokerage phase , but what about the 401k withdrawl phase? Or is estimating for brokerage phase about as good as one can do?" }, { "id": "t1_opbx9o6", "author": "/u/Revolutionary-Fan235", "updated": "2026-06-02T15:05:21+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tuq4ac/figuring_tax_estimates_on_withdrawls/opbx9o6/", "content": "Traditional funds are taxed at income tax rate. Look at your annual withdrawal value compared to the income tax brackets. It's still not likely to approach 20% effective tax rate.\n In case you didn't know, you can use current numbers to estimate future plans (expenses and taxes) because they're both likely to go up by inflation. Since they're both affected by it, the inflation rate cancels out.\n Roth is 0% tax rate on withdrawals." }, { "id": "t1_opcdjhk", "author": "/u/pooping_turtles", "updated": "2026-06-02T16:16:42+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tuq4ac/figuring_tax_estimates_on_withdrawls/opcdjhk/", "content": "Thanks, so do you think a reasonable approach would estimate brokerage only tax rate, then 401k only income taxe rate, and then like weight them according to 401k and brokerage account proportions to get a final tax rate estimate? Is that what youre saying?" }, { "id": "t1_opcfpo2", "author": "/u/Revolutionary-Fan235", "updated": "2026-06-02T16:26:14+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tuq4ac/figuring_tax_estimates_on_withdrawls/opcfpo2/", "content": "That's a conventional and simple way to do things.\n Another one mixes in Roth conversions in low income years, and then Roth withdrawals to smooth out high income years.\n There are different ways to do things. The nice thing about retirement is having time and energy to learn about things." }, { "id": "t1_opck3cj", "author": "/u/pooping_turtles", "updated": "2026-06-02T16:45:22+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tuq4ac/figuring_tax_estimates_on_withdrawls/opck3cj/", "content": "Haha, well, I think there are many who would label me simple and conventional so sounds good yo me. However, Id like to figure this out before i retire, cause the point to me is to know when I can retire." }, { "id": "t1_opcltjg", "author": "/u/Revolutionary-Fan235", "updated": "2026-06-02T16:52:52+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tuq4ac/figuring_tax_estimates_on_withdrawls/opcltjg/", "content": "I think the market returns are likely to have a greater impact than most calculations that you can make to pin down retirement date." }, { "id": "t1_opcxxeh", "author": "/u/pooping_turtles", "updated": "2026-06-02T17:45:17+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tuq4ac/figuring_tax_estimates_on_withdrawls/opcxxeh/", "content": "Yes, Im most interested in really pinning down my number rather than guessing what date I may reach it." }, { "id": "t1_opb88t9", "author": "/u/Zphr", "updated": "2026-06-02T13:06:14+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tuq4ac/figuring_tax_estimates_on_withdrawls/opb88t9/", "content": "We run the entirety of our retirement spending through our Roth ladder, which means every dollar is taxable. That makes it very straightforward to plan for by applying the standard deduction, figuring tax in the bottom brackets, and then applying credits.\n We don't spend much and have children, so we haven't had any federal income tax liability since we retired at the end of 2014. We likely will start to have some in a few years unless we choose to alter our funding mix, but it'll only be in the low/mid single digit percentages.\n Most FIRE households have tax exposure in the single digits. Many have none at all.\n I would run your projected situation through a tax calc and adjust as necessary, but 20% is extremely conservative." }, { "id": "t1_opb7fv6", "author": "/u/Nuclear_N", "updated": "2026-06-02T13:02:02+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tuq4ac/figuring_tax_estimates_on_withdrawls/opb7fv6/", "content": "I do large chunks of money at a time. I am also doing large Roth Conversions. Eventually I want to live off my Roth, and just do Roth conversions...." }, { "id": "t1_opb81o1", "author": "/u/julio_jones47", "updated": "2026-06-02T13:05:13+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tuq4ac/figuring_tax_estimates_on_withdrawls/opb81o1/", "content": "I’m not a finance pro myself but all I did was multiply my yearly expenses x 25 then from that number estimate how much would be in my Roth. Subtract that from the nest egg. Then in my taxable estimate how much would be investments and how much is capital gains. I multiplied the capital gains x 15% tax rate came out to about 300,000. I added 300,000 to my original nest egg. To me that’s how much I have to have in order to pay taxes and still have my yearly living expenses in retirement. Back of the napkin math" }, { "id": "t1_opbhm7v", "author": "/u/pooping_turtles", "updated": "2026-06-02T13:52:53+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tuq4ac/figuring_tax_estimates_on_withdrawls/opbhm7v/", "content": "Thanks! This is the sort of other ppls methods for estimating it im looking for! In your taxable account how do you estimate split between principle and gains?" }, { "id": "t1_opbkvv6", "author": "/u/McKnuckle_Brewery", "updated": "2026-06-02T14:08:31+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tuq4ac/figuring_tax_estimates_on_withdrawls/opbkvv6/", "content": "You don’t estimate. Brokerages provide your cost basis and unrealized gains in their displays. The information is plain to see. Whenever you sell stock, you should know exactly how much in capital gains you are realizing." }, { "id": "t1_opbn5i6", "author": "/u/pooping_turtles", "updated": "2026-06-02T14:19:12+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tuq4ac/figuring_tax_estimates_on_withdrawls/opbn5i6/", "content": "Yeah, but Im still many years away, plus when your selling them, if you sell one you bought recently, less of it is gains than if you sell one bought long ago. So you have quantized portions of value all at different ratio of principal/gain. Doesnt that matter?" }, { "id": "t1_opc1s1g", "author": "/u/McKnuckle_Brewery", "updated": "2026-06-02T15:25:23+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tuq4ac/figuring_tax_estimates_on_withdrawls/opc1s1g/", "content": "By default, the oldest shares are liquidated when you sell (FIFO). Typically, but not always of course, these have the lowest cost basis, i.e. you bought them for the cheapest price.\n Regardless, all share lots are visible at your brokerage. So you should be able to see the gain you are about to realize before you click the Sell button.\n I actually keep a separate ledger in a spreadsheet of all share lots, so I am able to pick and choose specific shares to sell in order to control my taxable income." }, { "id": "t1_opcdytg", "author": "/u/pooping_turtles", "updated": "2026-06-02T16:18:34+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tuq4ac/figuring_tax_estimates_on_withdrawls/opcdytg/", "content": "Yeah, it was my understanding you could pick which to sell. In which case, you have a target tax rate and sell to meet that. How did you pick your target tax rate? Or is the target just 0 lol" }, { "id": "t1_opcp6ab", "author": "/u/McKnuckle_Brewery", "updated": "2026-06-02T17:07:28+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tuq4ac/figuring_tax_estimates_on_withdrawls/opcp6ab/", "content": "You don’t pick a target tax rate. Depending on how your total income is comprised, most people will either pay 0% or 15% on long-term capital gains.\n What you do decide on is the amount of gains to realize. But that is ultimately driven by the amount of gross proceeds that you need in order to have living expenses.\n Not everybody has a ton of flexibility to tweak things. It depends how many different stocks and funds you hold, and how many share lots you have acquired at different prices over the years.." }, { "id": "t1_opbbcpu", "author": "/u/MarvelousBullion", "updated": "2026-06-02T13:21:57+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tuq4ac/figuring_tax_estimates_on_withdrawls/opbbcpu/", "content": "20% is way too high for most FIRE situations. Run your actual withdrawal scenario through a tax calculator, account for the standard deduction, and you'll probably find you owe single digits or nothing depending on your mix of Roth vs taxable vs 401k." }, { "id": "t1_opbosfx", "author": "/u/np0x", "updated": "2026-06-02T14:26:43+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tuq4ac/figuring_tax_estimates_on_withdrawls/opbosfx/", "content": "Have you tried this resource: https://apps.irs.gov/app/tax-withholding-estimator\n I've got my own calculations based on prior years taxes and use a ballpark estimate based on it...you kinda get into a rhythm after a year or two...If your income is going to be similar to last year, pay the same amount (or 90% iirc) of taxes as the the prior year, and "safe harbor" should help with penalties...You do need to pay estimates quarterly based on the previous quarter's withdrawals to avoid interest.\n In the end one of your jobs as someone no longer earning W-2 is to become an expert in taxes. 😄" }, { "id": "t1_opbv0tj", "author": "/u/pooping_turtles", "updated": "2026-06-02T14:55:13+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tuq4ac/figuring_tax_estimates_on_withdrawls/opbv0tj/", "content": "Thanks I will check this out!!" }, { "id": "t1_opbnqoj", "author": "/u/PigKitten315", "updated": "2026-06-02T14:21:54+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tuq4ac/figuring_tax_estimates_on_withdrawls/opbnqoj/", "content": "Don't forget insurance, that pays a big part of how you withdraw as well. If you could withdraw enough from 401k for standard deduction, and rest from brokerage, your taxes could come to 0 for federal, unless you live where there is state taxes, you'll have to pay some there. Hope that helps" }, { "id": "t1_opbtn5d", "author": "/u/Alone-Experience9869", "updated": "2026-06-02T14:48:59+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tuq4ac/figuring_tax_estimates_on_withdrawls/opbtn5d/", "content": "I’d track it by calculating your tax. Otherwise, look at your tax return to get a feel of how much you need to pay.\n Ultimately, if you withdrawals are consistent and similar (about the same amounts from same types of accounts) you’ll be fine just doing safe harbor.\n Even if you do have some variation in your withdrawal types, you should be fine with safe harbour\n Good luck" }, { "id": "t1_opccxqo", "author": "/u/pooping_turtles", "updated": "2026-06-02T16:14:03+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tuq4ac/figuring_tax_estimates_on_withdrawls/opccxqo/", "content": "Thanks, can you explain a little more about what you mean by "just doing safe harbor"?" }, { "id": "t1_opcfsvg", "author": "/u/Alone-Experience9869", "updated": "2026-06-02T16:26:37+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tuq4ac/figuring_tax_estimates_on_withdrawls/opcfsvg/", "content": "Better to just Google it for a fuller/complete description…\n In short, to avoid underpayment penalty, you need to have paid in 90% of this year’s tax or 100% (or 110%) of last years.\n Once you don’t have a w2 income. You should be doing that. So each year when you file your taxes you’ll have your next years payment schedule\n Read up on that and see if that makes sense. Feel free to ask more for clarification. Just want you to use the existing resources." }, { "id": "t1_opckanp", "author": "/u/pooping_turtles", "updated": "2026-06-02T16:46:15+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tuq4ac/figuring_tax_estimates_on_withdrawls/opckanp/", "content": "Thanks, yes, I think that is enough to google on, thank you!!" }, { "id": "t1_opd7l9r", "author": "/u/Alone-Experience9869", "updated": "2026-06-02T18:27:15+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tuq4ac/figuring_tax_estimates_on_withdrawls/opd7l9r/", "content": "great, hope that helps.\n I looked over your op again. If you have a "yo-yo" income stream year to year, this safe harbor can help/hurt you. You might over withhold one year if you aren't paying attention.\n eg. year 1 you have low income and say have $1k of tax. Year 2 you have a high income. Well, for year 2 you could use safe harbor and just pay estimated tax of $1k. That is way under withhold, but because you met Safe Harbour you won't be charged a penalty. However, when you file your taxes for Year 2 (in Apr of Year 3), you'll have a big tax bill.\n continuing.. for year 3 lets say that low income again. If you withhold at year 2's income that will be way too high. So, you need to use the 90% estimate. You can always go over. But, in this case either you use the Year 1 case as a benchmark or learn to calculate your taxes.\n I hope you can see how this works out. I'm just trying to provide a way to handle this w/o going heavy into doing your own tax calcs. In my opinon, if you have a yo-yo income, using safe harbor and somehow estimating your taxes (I know lots of people do it with TurboTax, for those that use it for their filings) will give you the most control over your finances/tax payments.\n Hope that helps." }, { "id": "t1_opdk3zo", "author": "/u/pooping_turtles", "updated": "2026-06-02T19:22:57+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tuq4ac/figuring_tax_estimates_on_withdrawls/opdk3zo/", "content": "Yes, thank you, thats another aspect i hadnt really been thinking about that needs to be more in my radar. Thank you for bringing it more to my attention!!" }, { "id": "t1_opf5f8q", "author": "/u/Alone-Experience9869", "updated": "2026-06-03T00:08:57+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tuq4ac/figuring_tax_estimates_on_withdrawls/opf5f8q/", "content": "yeah, it can get complex in your situation. You are balancing / determining aspects like cash flow, safe harbor limits, withholdings from potential W2 income (that alone could meet safe harbour limits), asset allocation (your cash amount), income sources with varying tax treatment, etc." }, { "id": "t1_opfci3t", "author": "/u/pooping_turtles", "updated": "2026-06-03T00:48:56+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tuq4ac/figuring_tax_estimates_on_withdrawls/opfci3t/", "content": "Yeah, my gut reaction is to just add alot of padding. Like for my SWR, instead of getting too much into the weeds, I was like Ive never read a study with any reasonable asset mix where 3% failed, so 3% it is. So now with taxes im like, how do i just overestimate it to give myself breathing room to figure it out. I just really like not having to worry about money. When I first became actually financially secure, it felt like I could live my life for the first time ever, I never want to go back to feeling insecure." }, { "id": "t1_opfdof0", "author": "/u/Alone-Experience9869", "updated": "2026-06-03T00:55:32+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tuq4ac/figuring_tax_estimates_on_withdrawls/opfdof0/", "content": "sure. just don't "over-pad" otherwise you'll "look like" you can retire! LOL\n Since you are pretty conservative, you'll have headroom most likely to work on Rotherizing your pre-tax funds. That will benefit you in the long run since it looks like you are retiring early." }, { "id": "t1_opffd1s", "author": "/u/pooping_turtles", "updated": "2026-06-03T01:05:03+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tuq4ac/figuring_tax_estimates_on_withdrawls/opffd1s/", "content": "Yeah, even with lots of padding it doesnt seem likely I would justify working past 50 or definitely 55 unless things get real weird. You think roth ladders are kind of a must though? Even if Im probably retiring kind of late for FIRE people?" }, { "id": "t1_opbibrg", "author": "/u/bunrieu4BLD", "updated": "2026-06-02T13:56:17+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tuq4ac/figuring_tax_estimates_on_withdrawls/opbibrg/", "content": "you'd have to know your filing status, tax brackets (fed/state), how your income will be taxed.\n for example, we're retiring end of this year. next year, our income stream will come from dividends/distributions/interest and ltcg (selling funds).\n we won't pay a cent in federal or state income taxes. standard deductions take care of ordinary income and MFJ 0% LTCG bracket takes care of the rest. it helps having a semi-low annual expense" }, { "id": "t1_opcjkfj", "author": "/u/paq12x", "updated": "2026-06-02T16:43:05+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tuq4ac/figuring_tax_estimates_on_withdrawls/opcjkfj/", "content": "Look up the tax table to do the tax calculation.\n If you are single and taking a standard deduction, you'll need to withdraw (from your 401k) $54,400 to have a net of $50k after tax.\n If you are married filing jointly and taking a standard deduction, you'll need to withdraw (from your 401k) $52,0000 to have a net of $50k after tax.\n Your state/local tax sits on top.\n https://engaging-data.com/tax-brackets/" }, { "id": "t1_opbcai4", "author": "", "updated": "2026-06-02T13:26:37+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tuq4ac/figuring_tax_estimates_on_withdrawls/opbcai4/", "content": "[deleted]" }, { "id": "t1_opbl2zh", "author": "/u/McKnuckle_Brewery", "updated": "2026-06-02T14:09:27+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tuq4ac/figuring_tax_estimates_on_withdrawls/opbl2zh/", "content": "Just like OP, your assumption is way way too high. It may give you a buffer, but it’s also wildly unrealistic. I don’t think that serves you particularly well either." }, { "id": "t1_opc4m0n", "author": "/u/AndyTheEngr", "updated": "2026-06-02T15:37:43+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tuq4ac/figuring_tax_estimates_on_withdrawls/opc4m0n/", "content": "I think people are used to the tax rates they pay while working, which includes OASDI and other taxes that they won't pay on their non-working income." }, { "id": "t1_opcplj0", "author": "/u/McKnuckle_Brewery", "updated": "2026-06-02T17:09:18+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tuq4ac/figuring_tax_estimates_on_withdrawls/opcplj0/", "content": "You are right. But that’s why education is so important! Retirement is a different beast." } ] }, { "source": "r/Fire hot", "id": "t3_1tu4yhg", "title": "I hit 50% of the way to my FIRE number today", "author": "/u/MorningHelpful8389", "updated": "2026-06-01T20:36:01+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu4yhg/i_hit_50_of_the_way_to_my_fire_number_today/", "content": "My FIRE number is 1.8 million. (mid 30s)\n Monthly expenses (being generous and rounding up) are about $10,000 per month. This does include insurance cost estimates, mortgage etc. I am not including mortgage in net worth calculation.\n There are two of us, splitting cost, both working and saving independently. So each of us needs to bring in $5,000 per month. So with a 3.5% withdrawal rate, I need about 1.8 million personally for my $5,000.\n My liquid net worth is $920,000 as of today.\n Obviously I am aware and concerned that a big market condition change could bring me down to half that and nowhere near FIRE numbers. But here's hoping I make it to 1.8million in the next 5-10 years!\n submitted by /u/MorningHelpful8389\n [link] [comments]", "contentHtml": "

My FIRE number is 1.8 million. (mid 30s)

Monthly expenses (being generous and rounding up) are about $10,000 per month. This does include insurance cost estimates, mortgage etc. I am not including mortgage in net worth calculation.

There are two of us, splitting cost, both working and saving independently. So each of us needs to bring in $5,000 per month. So with a 3.5% withdrawal rate, I need about 1.8 million personally for my $5,000.

My liquid net worth is $920,000 as of today.

Obviously I am aware and concerned that a big market condition change could bring me down to half that and nowhere near FIRE numbers. But here's hoping I make it to 1.8million in the next 5-10 years!

submitted by /u/MorningHelpful8389
[link] [comments]", "comments": [ { "id": "t1_op71ac4", "author": "/u/TwentyFourKG", "updated": "2026-06-01T20:41:19+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu4yhg/i_hit_50_of_the_way_to_my_fire_number_today/op71ac4/", "content": "You are actually much closer than 50% because it grows exponentially. Assuming average of 10% annual growth, you will be there in about seven years. Sooner if you keep contributing." }, { "id": "t1_op73tfb", "author": "/u/MarshivaDiva", "updated": "2026-06-01T20:52:52+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu4yhg/i_hit_50_of_the_way_to_my_fire_number_today/op73tfb/", "content": "Please let this be true. I'm at 1 mil with a 2 mil target" }, { "id": "t1_op772n0", "author": "/u/TwentyFourKG", "updated": "2026-06-01T21:08:05+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu4yhg/i_hit_50_of_the_way_to_my_fire_number_today/op772n0/", "content": "The math works. The function y=1.1 x doubles roughly every multiple of 7 for x. Here y is your principal and x is years. At 7 years your principle is about 2 and at 14 years it is about 4" }, { "id": "t1_op7a66t", "author": "/u/jocona", "updated": "2026-06-01T21:22:51+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu4yhg/i_hit_50_of_the_way_to_my_fire_number_today/op7a66t/", "content": "It is true in general, but it wouldn’t be wise to bet on it over short time scales, and ~7-10 years is borderline. The market could double over the next decade, it could quadruple, or it could stay flat. It may even go down.\n It would be prudent to keep chugging along, because if the market does go down you’ll recover faster by DCAing at the depressed prices." }, { "id": "t1_op7h3i8", "author": "/u/sandpadres", "updated": "2026-06-01T21:57:06+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu4yhg/i_hit_50_of_the_way_to_my_fire_number_today/op7h3i8/", "content": "There are wide confidence intervals around these numbers as a word of caution for people counting on these results." }, { "id": "t1_op7i5t9", "author": "/u/TwentyFourKG", "updated": "2026-06-01T22:02:34+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu4yhg/i_hit_50_of_the_way_to_my_fire_number_today/op7i5t9/", "content": "Very true. This is an approximation. Could be sooner. Could be much longer…" }, { "id": "t1_op7xs6s", "author": "/u/sandpadres", "updated": "2026-06-01T23:27:02+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu4yhg/i_hit_50_of_the_way_to_my_fire_number_today/op7xs6s/", "content": "Let’s hope sooner :)" }, { "id": "t1_op790w7", "author": "/u/IntelligentMiddle8", "updated": "2026-06-01T21:17:23+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu4yhg/i_hit_50_of_the_way_to_my_fire_number_today/op790w7/", "content": "The market was kind of crazy the past few years, but I went from 1 to 2mil in under two years. 0 to 1 took me a solid 5." }, { "id": "t1_opfw7rx", "author": "/u/Stunning-Thanks-4226", "updated": "2026-06-03T02:41:56+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu4yhg/i_hit_50_of_the_way_to_my_fire_number_today/opfw7rx/", "content": "It took me 35 years to get a million. It took 2 more to get to $2M" }, { "id": "t1_op7a8m0", "author": "/u/FIMilestonesDeux", "updated": "2026-06-01T21:23:10+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu4yhg/i_hit_50_of_the_way_to_my_fire_number_today/op7a8m0/", "content": "10% annual growth is very hopeful. I'm all for it tho." }, { "id": "t1_op7j527", "author": "/u/Ancients", "updated": "2026-06-01T22:07:38+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu4yhg/i_hit_50_of_the_way_to_my_fire_number_today/op7j527/", "content": "11%-12% annual growth is pretty normal though. It drops to more like 7% when inflation is considered. The 4% rule is because large market downturns still happen, and that fucks you hard with sequence of return risk/loss.\n I wouldn't consider it super hopeful, as much as just not pessimistic." }, { "id": "t1_opag4eu", "author": "/u/Strazdas1", "updated": "2026-06-02T10:09:56+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu4yhg/i_hit_50_of_the_way_to_my_fire_number_today/opag4eu/", "content": "Typical inflation is 2-3%. Long term pre-inflation average is 9%" }, { "id": "t1_opdjkox", "author": "/u/Raging-Totoro", "updated": "2026-06-02T19:20:29+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu4yhg/i_hit_50_of_the_way_to_my_fire_number_today/opdjkox/", "content": "Markets are volatile, and using average returns over shorter time scales (less than 20 years) can vary massively from actual results.\n An especially important consideration given where current valuation levels are." }, { "id": "t1_ope8x16", "author": "/u/Vast-Departure-3199", "updated": "2026-06-02T21:17:48+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu4yhg/i_hit_50_of_the_way_to_my_fire_number_today/ope8x16/", "content": "This doesn’t account for inflation in OPs number though correct?\n 1.8m in today’s dollars is OP number.\n If they are seven years out, assuming 3% inflation, their real number will be 2.2m" }, { "id": "t1_op73ifp", "author": "/u/DistributionEven9393", "updated": "2026-06-01T20:51:30+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu4yhg/i_hit_50_of_the_way_to_my_fire_number_today/op73ifp/", "content": "Curious, have your monthly expenses stayed close to $10,000 per month over the last few years? Or starting to climb?" }, { "id": "t1_op75nrk", "author": "/u/MorningHelpful8389", "updated": "2026-06-01T21:01:24+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu4yhg/i_hit_50_of_the_way_to_my_fire_number_today/op75nrk/", "content": "I feel like they hang around 6-8k but I’m adding healthcare and taxes and buffer" }, { "id": "t1_op71wo0", "author": "/u/Green_Bluebird5804", "updated": "2026-06-01T20:44:09+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu4yhg/i_hit_50_of_the_way_to_my_fire_number_today/op71wo0/", "content": "Congrats!! keep it up!" }, { "id": "t1_op731ef", "author": "/u/Ok_Brilliant3432", "updated": "2026-06-01T20:49:20+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu4yhg/i_hit_50_of_the_way_to_my_fire_number_today/op731ef/", "content": "Congratulations, you are off to a great start. 1.8 may be a little low. I hope this won’t happen to you, but I’ve encountered a lot of medical costs due to some chronic conditions I got later in life. I don’t have enough of a cushion & can’t go back to work" }, { "id": "t1_op75l3w", "author": "/u/MorningHelpful8389", "updated": "2026-06-01T21:01:03+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu4yhg/i_hit_50_of_the_way_to_my_fire_number_today/op75l3w/", "content": "Well remember there’s two of us, so it’s about 1.8 million each sharing expenses, or 3.6 million for 2 people." }, { "id": "t1_op7apbc", "author": "/u/jocona", "updated": "2026-06-01T21:25:23+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu4yhg/i_hit_50_of_the_way_to_my_fire_number_today/op7apbc/", "content": "Are you planning to retire and then leave your husband/wife at work while you travel, enjoy hobbies, whatever? That sounds miserable, my FI number is our FI number." }, { "id": "t1_op7h2dw", "author": "/u/MorningHelpful8389", "updated": "2026-06-01T21:56:57+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu4yhg/i_hit_50_of_the_way_to_my_fire_number_today/op7h2dw/", "content": "No. We have to both hit the 1.8 number but we’re saving and growing at basically the exact same rate so we’ll hit it at the same time. If one is behind then we can even it out later. Since we do our own investing and both are into financials, it’s better to keep it separate" }, { "id": "t1_opfrlk6", "author": "/u/TVP615", "updated": "2026-06-03T02:15:00+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu4yhg/i_hit_50_of_the_way_to_my_fire_number_today/opfrlk6/", "content": "It always confuses me when people don’t talk in terms of joint finances for married couples. You both share all financial assets. Why separate them And create division and confusion? Doesn’t make a lot of practical sense to me. You guys should just say you’ll both retire at 3.6 M joint assets." }, { "id": "t1_opfskw2", "author": "/u/MorningHelpful8389", "updated": "2026-06-03T02:20:42+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu4yhg/i_hit_50_of_the_way_to_my_fire_number_today/opfskw2/", "content": "We’re not married.\n And we like separate for various reasons, for example buying gifts for each other seems more heartfelt when it’s from your own money and not “hey I bought you a gift with your own money!”" }, { "id": "t1_opft8ro", "author": "/u/TVP615", "updated": "2026-06-03T02:24:32+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu4yhg/i_hit_50_of_the_way_to_my_fire_number_today/opft8ro/", "content": "That makes sense then" }, { "id": "t1_op9fhmy", "author": "/u/Available-Ad-5670", "updated": "2026-06-02T05:04:20+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu4yhg/i_hit_50_of_the_way_to_my_fire_number_today/op9fhmy/", "content": "it seems very strange that you calculate this separately." }, { "id": "t1_opb3tbo", "author": "/u/sansmountains", "updated": "2026-06-02T12:42:52+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu4yhg/i_hit_50_of_the_way_to_my_fire_number_today/opb3tbo/", "content": "I don't think its that strange. We do it too where we track our finances separately, but end goal is our total combined. My spouse and I are the same age, but im further along due to already planning for FIRE almost a decade before meeting/getting married. And I want to retire earlier (he loves his job), so I would like to make sure ive pulled my weight before I hit the trigger to still contribute. To each their own." }, { "id": "t1_opc16xb", "author": "/u/renee_christine", "updated": "2026-06-02T15:22:50+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu4yhg/i_hit_50_of_the_way_to_my_fire_number_today/opc16xb/", "content": "Idk why people always get so hung up on this. People marry people who are younger or older than them, some people enjoy their jobs more than others, some people don't work full-time year round, etc.\n Most people who retire the "regular" way don't stop working the exact same day their spouse does either." }, { "id": "t1_op73m37", "author": "/u/peachblossombbyxo", "updated": "2026-06-01T20:51:57+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu4yhg/i_hit_50_of_the_way_to_my_fire_number_today/op73m37/", "content": "920k in your mid 30s is genuinely incredible and the compounding from here is going to do a lot of the heavy lifting for you. The second half always goes faster than the first." }, { "id": "t1_op759ng", "author": "/u/DividendMatt91", "updated": "2026-06-01T20:59:34+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu4yhg/i_hit_50_of_the_way_to_my_fire_number_today/op759ng/", "content": "That’s the boss fight right there.\n $920k liquid in your mid-30s is a massive milestone, and the second half should have a lot more compounding behind it than the first. I’d just keep watching the $10k/month expense number like a hawk, because that’s what decides whether $1.8M is plenty or starts feeling tight.\n Percent-to-FIRE is cool, but expenses-covered is where it starts feeling real" }, { "id": "t1_op73q4m", "author": "/u/hadee75", "updated": "2026-06-01T20:52:27+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu4yhg/i_hit_50_of_the_way_to_my_fire_number_today/op73q4m/", "content": "Awesome progress!" }, { "id": "t1_op7b9uo", "author": "/u/Business-Donkey-7234", "updated": "2026-06-01T21:28:09+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu4yhg/i_hit_50_of_the_way_to_my_fire_number_today/op7b9uo/", "content": "Congratulation and my biggest respect! Keep going!" }, { "id": "t1_op7vs2l", "author": "/u/db11242", "updated": "2026-06-01T23:15:59+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu4yhg/i_hit_50_of_the_way_to_my_fire_number_today/op7vs2l/", "content": "Congrats. You've hit "flamingo FI". https://www.moneyflamingo.com/flamingo-fi-part-1/ You only need one more double! Best of luck." }, { "id": "t1_opf16f9", "author": "/u/vish_singh", "updated": "2026-06-02T23:45:05+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu4yhg/i_hit_50_of_the_way_to_my_fire_number_today/opf16f9/", "content": "What an article! Thanks for sharing." }, { "id": "t1_op93xf9", "author": "/u/Chet100", "updated": "2026-06-02T03:41:52+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu4yhg/i_hit_50_of_the_way_to_my_fire_number_today/op93xf9/", "content": "Damn... that's awesome savings Over 50...4.75nw...not thinking of retirement until kids are through college...fire around 58" }, { "id": "t1_opak6j5", "author": "/u/coachellagirly", "updated": "2026-06-02T10:40:34+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu4yhg/i_hit_50_of_the_way_to_my_fire_number_today/opak6j5/", "content": "The market volatility concern is real but worth reframing at $920k you're past the point where a bad year wipes you out, and you have the time horizon to recover from a correction before you'd actually need to draw down." }, { "id": "t1_opapt5h", "author": "/u/BedWonderful1051", "updated": "2026-06-02T11:19:28+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu4yhg/i_hit_50_of_the_way_to_my_fire_number_today/opapt5h/", "content": "Don\n Don't forget to include inflation of that $5,000/mth as you save the remaining 50% of x years." }, { "id": "t1_opbbi1f", "author": "/u/2Nails", "updated": "2026-06-02T13:22:41+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu4yhg/i_hit_50_of_the_way_to_my_fire_number_today/opbbi1f/", "content": "Hey ! Congratz !\n I'm at 50.71% myself. Although I'm using cashflow as a metric rather than capital.\n Let's just keep going !" }, { "id": "t1_opbpkqc", "author": "/u/Particular_Maize6849", "updated": "2026-06-02T14:30:22+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu4yhg/i_hit_50_of_the_way_to_my_fire_number_today/opbpkqc/", "content": "Our NW, age, and expenses seen similar but our number minimum is 2.5mil. So we're a bit less than halfway." }, { "id": "t1_opbpusk", "author": "/u/MorningHelpful8389", "updated": "2026-06-02T14:31:40+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu4yhg/i_hit_50_of_the_way_to_my_fire_number_today/opbpusk/", "content": "How’d you figure the 2.5? Is 3.6 million potentially too high then?" }, { "id": "t1_opbsw1k", "author": "/u/Particular_Maize6849", "updated": "2026-06-02T14:45:32+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu4yhg/i_hit_50_of_the_way_to_my_fire_number_today/opbsw1k/", "content": "It's the minimum. Our current expenses include a mortgage which is literally about half our expenses each month. Without that, or moving somewhere cheaper we could make it with 2.5mil.\n We also plan around a 4% SWR since that SWR is already known to be conservative." }, { "id": "t1_opbw2gd", "author": "/u/MorningHelpful8389", "updated": "2026-06-02T14:59:55+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu4yhg/i_hit_50_of_the_way_to_my_fire_number_today/opbw2gd/", "content": "Same here. Mortgage is 40% of the $10K. I’d pay it off but the rate is too low (2.5%)" }, { "id": "t1_opbx0tt", "author": "/u/Particular_Maize6849", "updated": "2026-06-02T15:04:15+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu4yhg/i_hit_50_of_the_way_to_my_fire_number_today/opbx0tt/", "content": "Luckyyy. We hit a 6% rate. :(" }, { "id": "t1_opbxwu6", "author": "/u/MorningHelpful8389", "updated": "2026-06-02T15:08:14+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu4yhg/i_hit_50_of_the_way_to_my_fire_number_today/opbxwu6/", "content": "Golden handcuffs though 😞" }, { "id": "t1_opddeuj", "author": "/u/Grand_Master_Gosh", "updated": "2026-06-02T18:52:54+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu4yhg/i_hit_50_of_the_way_to_my_fire_number_today/opddeuj/", "content": "hitting that halfway mark is honestly such a huge feeling, congrats on the discipline. i found that diversifying my assets into european property helped keep my portfolio grounded during market swings, and i use rov group to handle the logistics of those specific investments without the usual headache. stay focused on the long game and keep your expenses in check, it really does get easier from here once the compounding starts doing the heavy lifting for you" }, { "id": "t1_ope024h", "author": "/u/Cunorix", "updated": "2026-06-02T20:36:10+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu4yhg/i_hit_50_of_the_way_to_my_fire_number_today/ope024h/", "content": "Congrats! You have hit Flamingo FIRE. My favorite of all FIRE derivatives" }, { "id": "t1_op7yj5s", "author": "/u/Crochet_Koala", "updated": "2026-06-01T23:31:13+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu4yhg/i_hit_50_of_the_way_to_my_fire_number_today/op7yj5s/", "content": "Congrats! We also just hit 50% of our goal ($1.5M to $3M)." }, { "id": "t1_op8zv92", "author": "/u/Topaz_11", "updated": "2026-06-02T03:14:49+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu4yhg/i_hit_50_of_the_way_to_my_fire_number_today/op8zv92/", "content": "You talk about expenses been 6-8 and aiming at 10K... Then also talk about you only needing 1/2 of that. I think your larger risk is what happens if one half cannot/does-not make their side of the 5K bank.\n Congrats on your 1/4 of the estimate - the market has been on a run recently." }, { "id": "t1_op900q4", "author": "/u/MorningHelpful8389", "updated": "2026-06-02T03:15:49+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu4yhg/i_hit_50_of_the_way_to_my_fire_number_today/op900q4/", "content": "We both save at the same rate and both are at 900K+" }, { "id": "t1_opafr3d", "author": "/u/BuySellHoldFinance", "updated": "2026-06-02T10:07:04+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu4yhg/i_hit_50_of_the_way_to_my_fire_number_today/opafr3d/", "content": "If you factor in social security, you probably have a 50% chance of failure (50% chance of success as well) at a 7% withdraw rate. So you're 50% of the way in more than one way!" }, { "id": "t1_opb8wxg", "author": "/u/MorningHelpful8389", "updated": "2026-06-02T13:09:41+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu4yhg/i_hit_50_of_the_way_to_my_fire_number_today/opb8wxg/", "content": "I have no idea what this even means" } ] }, { "source": "r/Fire hot", "id": "t3_1tvg7u0", "title": "How’s your portfolio return YTD?", "author": "/u/Beginning-Fig-9089", "updated": "2026-06-03T05:47:20+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tvg7u0/hows_your_portfolio_return_ytd/", "content": "Just wondering how well everyones doing in the bull run of 2026. I’m sure it has accelerated a lot of people’s timeline.\n S&P is up 11.18% Year to Date\n **sorry i fucked up the poll, i missed the -10 to 0 category. if you fall in this category you can get upgraded to the next one up. I shall authorize that\n View Poll\n submitted by /u/Beginning-Fig-9089\n [link] [comments]", "contentHtml": "

Just wondering how well everyones doing in the bull run of 2026. I’m sure it has accelerated a lot of people’s timeline.

S&P is up 11.18% Year to Date

**sorry i fucked up the poll, i missed the -10 to 0 category. if you fall in this category you can get upgraded to the next one up. I shall authorize that

View Poll

submitted by /u/Beginning-Fig-9089
[link] [comments]", "comments": [ { "id": "t1_opgp6ly", "author": "/u/mydknyght79", "updated": "2026-06-03T06:03:13+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tvg7u0/hows_your_portfolio_return_ytd/opgp6ly/", "content": "S&P delivered 11.42% through end of May. Not sure how people are getting 20%+ without significant leverage or risk." }, { "id": "t1_opgr7lh", "author": "/u/idekl", "updated": "2026-06-03T06:19:15+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tvg7u0/hows_your_portfolio_return_ytd/opgr7lh/", "content": "Probably semiconductor stocks? They've been popular and on a tear for months plus the tech-heavy community of FIRE probably feels a bit more comfortable with those stocks than normal. Also maybe company matches or RSUs, since a lot of the market has been rising on the tide." }, { "id": "t1_opgsnm0", "author": "/u/BuilderOfDragons", "updated": "2026-06-03T06:30:57+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tvg7u0/hows_your_portfolio_return_ytd/opgsnm0/", "content": "Lots of tech company employees on here with significant positions in their company stock" }, { "id": "t1_opgvq2i", "author": "/u/sd_slate", "updated": "2026-06-03T06:55:36+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tvg7u0/hows_your_portfolio_return_ytd/opgvq2i/", "content": "I'll admit to reading it as 1Y not YTD and then fat fingering. Still a crazy run." }, { "id": "t1_opgyrqh", "author": "/u/Eli_Renfro", "updated": "2026-06-03T07:20:56+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tvg7u0/hows_your_portfolio_return_ytd/opgyrqh/", "content": "VXUS is up about 14% through May, so global stock portfolios look better than US only. If course still nowhere near 20%." }, { "id": "t1_oph23tw", "author": "/u/therealjerseytom", "updated": "2026-06-03T07:49:51+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tvg7u0/hows_your_portfolio_return_ytd/oph23tw/", "content": "Emerging markets have been on a tear, as have semiconductors.\n More risk in the latter of course." }, { "id": "t1_opgt4cd", "author": "/u/NeuroticFinance", "updated": "2026-06-03T06:34:40+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tvg7u0/hows_your_portfolio_return_ytd/opgt4cd/", "content": "I've got a good chunk of my investments in VGT and also TQQQ, so those are what's carrying me to victory.\n EDIT: I also bought VOO while markets were down, so that sort of helped quite a bit too." }, { "id": "t1_opgntet", "author": "/u/pudding7", "updated": "2026-06-03T05:52:31+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tvg7u0/hows_your_portfolio_return_ytd/opgntet/", "content": "Who's got the +20% thing?" }, { "id": "t1_opgrtc0", "author": "/u/ToastBalancer", "updated": "2026-06-03T06:24:08+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tvg7u0/hows_your_portfolio_return_ytd/opgrtc0/", "content": "Me" }, { "id": "t1_oph2txs", "author": "/u/SeraphSurfer", "updated": "2026-06-03T07:56:05+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tvg7u0/hows_your_portfolio_return_ytd/oph2txs/", "content": "Me. About 50% of my NW is in PE due to a career in angel investing. It's been a good year so far.\n One of my companies had an IPO last year, VOYG, and is up about 80% ytd. While it is no longer truly PE, it's still part of my PE portfolio because I've not given it to my bank to manage yet.\n Another portco is having an IPO late this year ...assuming the economy holds up.\n Another portco just closed a financing round at 150% higher valuation than the one I lead in 2024." }, { "id": "t1_ophcx69", "author": "/u/No-Trust-7021", "updated": "2026-06-03T09:24:47+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tvg7u0/hows_your_portfolio_return_ytd/ophcx69/", "content": "Mine's sitting around 14% right now, mostly thanks to some tech picks that worked out better than expected. The automotive sector stuff I follow has been surprisingly strong this year too." }, { "id": "t1_opgoduf", "author": "/u/homestarrunner3700", "updated": "2026-06-03T05:56:52+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tvg7u0/hows_your_portfolio_return_ytd/opgoduf/", "content": "Happy to be 100% equities, but it can be a wild ride" }, { "id": "t1_opgnpid", "author": "/u/Captlard", "updated": "2026-06-03T05:51:42+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tvg7u0/hows_your_portfolio_return_ytd/opgnpid/", "content": "The equities portion is the developed world and 12.77% YTD. (12 months is 30.48%)" }, { "id": "t1_opgq9ut", "author": "/u/deeare73", "updated": "2026-06-03T06:11:48+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tvg7u0/hows_your_portfolio_return_ytd/opgq9ut/", "content": "24% ytd" }, { "id": "t1_opgrjlt", "author": "/u/Maleficent_Worth_157", "updated": "2026-06-03T06:21:57+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tvg7u0/hows_your_portfolio_return_ytd/opgrjlt/", "content": "35 to 40% range" }, { "id": "t1_opgs24o", "author": "/u/blueberryyoshi24", "updated": "2026-06-03T06:26:06+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tvg7u0/hows_your_portfolio_return_ytd/opgs24o/", "content": "Would have to do a bit of math but my 401k.is up 11% Roth up 66% and taxable about 18-20" }, { "id": "t1_opgt8d3", "author": "/u/tubaleiter", "updated": "2026-06-03T06:35:33+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tvg7u0/hows_your_portfolio_return_ytd/opgt8d3/", "content": "8.2% in local currency (GBP), 8.8% in USD. For a 79% equities (with a 50% cap on US within that) and 21% bonds/cash allocation, that sounds about right, no problem sleeping at night with that." }, { "id": "t1_opgu6kp", "author": "/u/LilleFox", "updated": "2026-06-03T06:43:13+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tvg7u0/hows_your_portfolio_return_ytd/opgu6kp/", "content": "13.33% My portfolio is a mix of ETFs + satellite position in Amazon" }, { "id": "t1_opgvc84", "author": "/u/Reasonable_Tap_8215", "updated": "2026-06-03T06:52:27+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tvg7u0/hows_your_portfolio_return_ytd/opgvc84/", "content": "This should go to 9 and 19. Otherwise there is overlap." }, { "id": "t1_opgvlxq", "author": "/u/Beginning-Fig-9089", "updated": "2026-06-03T06:54:38+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tvg7u0/hows_your_portfolio_return_ytd/opgvlxq/", "content": "yea looks like i messed up a lot of things, i thought i could edit the poll after posting but i guess not" }, { "id": "t1_opgvs0c", "author": "/u/ZeroRedundancy", "updated": "2026-06-03T06:56:04+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tvg7u0/hows_your_portfolio_return_ytd/opgvs0c/", "content": "My Roth is up 73.5% YTD. 100% FSELX have been since 2020" }, { "id": "t1_opgnsmy", "author": "/u/Spirited-Muffin-8104", "updated": "2026-06-03T05:52:21+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tvg7u0/hows_your_portfolio_return_ytd/opgnsmy/", "content": "40% YTD, it dropped from 60% just last week. Quite volatile portfolio but I'm confident in my stock picks and won't sell until the end of the year." }, { "id": "t1_opgnw7z", "author": "/u/originalrocket", "updated": "2026-06-03T05:53:07+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tvg7u0/hows_your_portfolio_return_ytd/opgnw7z/", "content": "you a ram fan?" }, { "id": "t1_opgolm7", "author": "/u/Spirited-Muffin-8104", "updated": "2026-06-03T05:58:34+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tvg7u0/hows_your_portfolio_return_ytd/opgolm7/", "content": "no, since 2023 I correctly predicted RAM to go up but I didn't have enough knowledge about the RAM manufacturing companies since I was busy doing research in companies of other sectors. Working in AI gave me an advantage regarding understanding the supply and what "type" of companies will surge in demand, but there's only so much money and time I can invest into these things. Right now i'm not holding anything AI related, however, I STRONGLY expect utility companies to make very strong revenue due to data centers demand. Source: I worked at an energy company to service EV during the ChatGPT boom and noticed data centers will be the next big thing and was already being discussed many AI investors held large positions in energy companies." }, { "id": "t1_opgsaqm", "author": "/u/BuilderOfDragons", "updated": "2026-06-03T06:28:02+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tvg7u0/hows_your_portfolio_return_ytd/opgsaqm/", "content": "I'm in the 20%+ category for sure, as are most of my friends and 100% of my coworkers.\n I have a lot of equity in a startup in which I was an early employee. Up from 600k at the start of the year to ~3M, and on track to be 10-15M by the end of the year.\n And my SpaceX position is up from 2M to around 6.5M, likely to be 10M+ by the end of the year\n Convention investing wisdom is sell RSUs as they vest and don't hold stock in your employer. My approach has been to find companies I believe in, work to make them more successful, and hold the stock long term 🤷‍♂️\n I won't work for a company that doesn't offer significant equity compensation. When the employees own the company (or at least a small part of it) it produces excellent alignment of incentive and motivates people to work hard and solve problems, and once you demonstrate success and continue to offer equity you can recruit from the very top of the talent pool. This creates a positive feedback loop where you motivate your excellent people to do even better and this creates the environment to recruit even more excellent people" } ] }, { "source": "r/Fire hot", "id": "t3_1tup7x6", "title": "Social security disability eligibility", "author": "/u/tiggonfire", "updated": "2026-06-02T12:18:08+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tup7x6/social_security_disability_eligibility/", "content": "You need 40 work credits, 20 of which occurred in the last 10 years to qualify for disability, which means thar after not working for a little over 5 years, FIRE'd people lose their SSDI eligibility. In 2026, 1 work credit was $1890 in wages or self employment income. You can earn up to 4 credits each year. I'm curious whether it would be worth it to make an effort to stay eligible for SSDI. Does anybody do this or pay for another disability insurance? Or are most people just figuring they are self insuring or don't need the insurance as they will have enough money to support themselves whether they are disabled or not?\n submitted by /u/tiggonfire\n [link] [comments]", "contentHtml": "

You need 40 work credits, 20 of which occurred in the last 10 years to qualify for disability, which means thar after not working for a little over 5 years, FIRE'd people lose their SSDI eligibility. In 2026, 1 work credit was $1890 in wages or self employment income. You can earn up to 4 credits each year. I'm curious whether it would be worth it to make an effort to stay eligible for SSDI. Does anybody do this or pay for another disability insurance? Or are most people just figuring they are self insuring or don't need the insurance as they will have enough money to support themselves whether they are disabled or not?

submitted by /u/tiggonfire
[link] [comments]", "comments": [ { "id": "t1_opazygu", "author": "/u/brianmcg321", "updated": "2026-06-02T12:21:16+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tup7x6/social_security_disability_eligibility/opazygu/", "content": "If you are retired and financially independent why would you need disability income?" }, { "id": "t1_opb1a4g", "author": "/u/tiggonfire", "updated": "2026-06-02T12:28:47+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tup7x6/social_security_disability_eligibility/opb1a4g/", "content": "Well, if something happened that made you disabled, most likely medical expenses would be significantly higher. Being on disability comes with a lot of benefits including early or higher social security/disability checks, early/better medical coverage and reduced property taxes. Those benefits have value even if you are FI." }, { "id": "t1_opb38dq", "author": "/u/Semirhage527", "updated": "2026-06-02T12:39:40+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tup7x6/social_security_disability_eligibility/opb38dq/", "content": "Higher social security payments? Where are you getting that? ….\n Medicare isn’t exactly “better” medical coverage either. And I’m not sure what localities lower property taxes but that’s definitely location dependent" }, { "id": "t1_opb7nlm", "author": "/u/tiggonfire", "updated": "2026-06-02T13:03:10+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tup7x6/social_security_disability_eligibility/opb7nlm/", "content": "My understanding is that if you are determined disabled, you get the amount you would get at full retirement age even when drawing earlier. Also, there is a drop- out rule where if you become disabled before having 35 years of work history, some years could be dropped and the social security would be calculated/averaged with fewer than 35 years of history, which would result in a higher benefit. The better medical coverage and property tax discount I became aware of from a disabled friend, but yes, it is true this may not apply to every situation." }, { "id": "t1_opbbr3h", "author": "/u/si2k18", "updated": "2026-06-02T13:23:56+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tup7x6/social_security_disability_eligibility/opbbr3h/", "content": "You don’t get a higher social security check by being on SSDI.\n You only get Medicare if you have enough credits for your age, and there is a 24 month waiting period while on SSDI that you need other coverage before Medicare kicks in (unless you have a condition like ALS or ESRD). Medicare isn’t always better coverage than an employer plan, and doesn’t include vision, dental, hearing aids, home nursing or long term care. Many people need supplemental plans which are hundreds more in premiums per month.\n Additionally, Medicare still costs money for the average user, you don’t just “get it.” There is a monthly premium, an annual deductible, copays and coinsurance. You also have to pay a separate Part D premium each month if you want prescription coverage, which also has an annual deductible and copays and coinsurance. If you have a high household income, you may be subject to substantial IRMAA premiums as well.\n Reduced property taxes typically are only if you’re permanently disabled and only about a third of SSDI beneficiaries are considered Medical Improvement Not Expected.\n If you’re FI young due to an inheritance, you may not have a work history that would support any or much of a benefit from social security." }, { "id": "t1_opb0cyr", "author": "/u/FiIQ", "updated": "2026-06-02T12:23:35+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tup7x6/social_security_disability_eligibility/opb0cyr/", "content": "Financial independence means you have enough money to not work. SSDI is for those who can’t work.\n Ergo, if you’re financially independent you don’t need to supplement your earnings if you become disabled.\n If you lose your financial independence due to a disability, you were never financially independent to begin with." }, { "id": "t1_opb223p", "author": "/u/tiggonfire", "updated": "2026-06-02T12:33:10+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tup7x6/social_security_disability_eligibility/opb223p/", "content": "The disability benefits could make you more comfortably financially independent, which might be worth it especially if medical expenses are significant." }, { "id": "t1_opb2krd", "author": "/u/FiIQ", "updated": "2026-06-02T12:36:03+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tup7x6/social_security_disability_eligibility/opb2krd/", "content": "That’s not really how FI works. You’re financially independent or you’re not.\n Being more comfortable because of SSDI (of all things) means you require a government based social safety net to be (more) comfortable. Which by definition is not financially independent and implies that the comfort you had before the SSID was a misnomer.\n A tangential extrapolation of your question would mean a single mother on WIC and SSDI is financially independent because she has a few dollars in her pocket but the government assistance makes her FI more comfortable." }, { "id": "t1_opb3hut", "author": "/u/tiggonfire", "updated": "2026-06-02T12:41:07+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tup7x6/social_security_disability_eligibility/opb3hut/", "content": "I'm not saying you wouldn't be FI, but even FI and RE people do things like carrying long term care insurance, auto insurance, home insurance. This is another type of insurance. You wouldn't say a person who is FI or RE shouldn't carry any other type of insurance, so why see it as black and white in this case?" }, { "id": "t1_opb3tkc", "author": "/u/FiIQ", "updated": "2026-06-02T12:42:54+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tup7x6/social_security_disability_eligibility/opb3tkc/", "content": "Because none of the other things you mentioned are social safety nets intended for the most vulnerable people in dire situations.\n SSDI benefits are payments to replace lost income.\n Edit: grammar, more context." }, { "id": "t1_opb8hzv", "author": "/u/tiggonfire", "updated": "2026-06-02T13:07:34+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tup7x6/social_security_disability_eligibility/opb8hzv/", "content": "So if you decide to retire at 50 and become disabled at 51, would you not even bother applying for SSDI even if you'd be eligible?" }, { "id": "t1_opbb00c", "author": "", "updated": "2026-06-02T13:20:13+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tup7x6/social_security_disability_eligibility/opbb00c/", "content": "[deleted]" }, { "id": "t1_opbhyq7", "author": "/u/tiggonfire", "updated": "2026-06-02T13:54:33+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tup7x6/social_security_disability_eligibility/opbhyq7/", "content": "I go without life insurance too and when considering whether to RE, I considered that SSDI eligibility would go away over time and decided to RE anyway, but I still just don't like giving up that benefit. I am probably not willing to work a little each year to keep it and it seems the consensus is that others aren't either. I did think it was worth considering since it wouldn't take much to maintain it and am a bit surprised it's such a hard no for people responding, but I guess I got my answer to what the community thinks!" }, { "id": "t1_opbov51", "author": "", "updated": "2026-06-02T14:27:04+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tup7x6/social_security_disability_eligibility/opbov51/", "content": "[deleted]" }, { "id": "t1_opbrgby", "author": "/u/tiggonfire", "updated": "2026-06-02T14:39:03+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tup7x6/social_security_disability_eligibility/opbrgby/", "content": "Insurance is commonly referred to as a benefit in employment situations, so I think it is appropriate to refer to government provided insurance as a benefit. In the case of term life, stopping paying would be giving up the benefit of being insured and would be the equivalent to giving up the SSDI benefit by stopping working." }, { "id": "t1_opb0bps", "author": "/u/Visual_Scientist_298", "updated": "2026-06-02T12:23:23+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tup7x6/social_security_disability_eligibility/opb0bps/", "content": "Why do I need disability if I have decided to retire early?" }, { "id": "t1_opb2xbl", "author": "/u/tiggonfire", "updated": "2026-06-02T12:37:59+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tup7x6/social_security_disability_eligibility/opb2xbl/", "content": "Perhaps you wouldn't "need" it, but it might be worth it to have it anyway. I haven't done any math as far as it's value or what the difference in annual expenses might be with different types of disabilities to determine the value in it, hence the question. I know someone who has shared some costs associated with their disability and they are not insignificant." }, { "id": "t1_opbafty", "author": "/u/Visual_Scientist_298", "updated": "2026-06-02T13:17:25+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tup7x6/social_security_disability_eligibility/opbafty/", "content": "I mean I know of a few people that have been unable to work due to disability. They lose out monthly. I wouldn’t even waste time on this scenario as you don’t want to have to go thru the hurdles and denials and more money spent and time on more appointments to get more info to get your doctors to get more paperwork for you to submit. Just to not get money to actually provide for you." }, { "id": "t1_opbe8p5", "author": "/u/tiggonfire", "updated": "2026-06-02T13:36:19+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tup7x6/social_security_disability_eligibility/opbe8p5/", "content": "I know a few people who have greatly benefited from SSDI too. But yes, it would be very frustrating to jump through hoops to keep SSDI and then become disabled, apply for it and have it be denied." }, { "id": "t1_opbg1h2", "author": "/u/Visual_Scientist_298", "updated": "2026-06-02T13:45:09+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tup7x6/social_security_disability_eligibility/opbg1h2/", "content": "Anyone benefitting from disability (as in actually having access after all their bills plus treatments) is the exception. Don’t wish or waste time trying to figure this out. 50 times out of 10 you are better off without disability and all that comes with it." }, { "id": "t1_opd6rca", "author": "/u/someguy984", "updated": "2026-06-02T18:23:33+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tup7x6/social_security_disability_eligibility/opd6rca/", "content": "Not true, you get SSDI which isn't chump change and Medicare in 2 years, very worth it." }, { "id": "t1_opdbgtb", "author": "/u/Visual_Scientist_298", "updated": "2026-06-02T18:44:16+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tup7x6/social_security_disability_eligibility/opdbgtb/", "content": "Ya, no. I have family that has been on disability since her early 30s (so close to 20 years now) and a neighbor for about 10 years now. Neither family are ahead monetarily." }, { "id": "t1_opdbzwi", "author": "/u/someguy984", "updated": "2026-06-02T18:46:38+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tup7x6/social_security_disability_eligibility/opdbzwi/", "content": "Obviously too young for disability since work record isn't high, but still better off than without it." }, { "id": "t1_opb0uga", "author": "/u/genxer", "updated": "2026-06-02T12:26:20+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tup7x6/social_security_disability_eligibility/opb0uga/", "content": "Honestly, isnt the point to have enough cash, I dont have to worry? In September, I should both hit my fire number and pension eligibility. FIRE means never having to go back to work." }, { "id": "t1_opb5nxe", "author": "/u/tiggonfire", "updated": "2026-06-02T12:52:47+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tup7x6/social_security_disability_eligibility/opb5nxe/", "content": "Well, I worry despite currently being able to get by on 2% most years. If expenses increase dramatically or returns on investments aren't as high as one planned, then a person is no longer FI. Even if still FI, significant medical expenses would make a person less comfortable financially. I considered giving up SSDI over time and decided to RE anyway, but I keep circling back to it, especially when a disabled friend shares some of the large costs they are incurring." }, { "id": "t1_opb42pb", "author": "/u/ADiyHD", "updated": "2026-06-02T12:44:16+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tup7x6/social_security_disability_eligibility/opb42pb/", "content": "If you are medically eligible for SSDI, those are only the credit requirements for the FIRST year of SSDI eligibility, and once you are on SSDI you only need to worry about whether you remain medically eligible.\n If you aren’t working and you aren’t currently disabled, why are you concerned about disability insurance? The entire point of disability insurance is to replace lost income from not being able to work." }, { "id": "t1_opb800q", "author": "/u/teach-xx", "updated": "2026-06-02T13:04:59+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tup7x6/social_security_disability_eligibility/opb800q/", "content": "I see you conflating disability eligibility with having unexpectedly high medical expenses, and you seem to resist people calling you out on that, but I’m doing it anyway because I’m a delight.\n In fact, many more people will experience shockingly high medical expenses than will become eligible for SSDI. You only need a passing acquaintance with the research to find that fact. Everyone who tries to FIRE either has a plan to deal with crushing medical costs or doesn’t. The narrowness of SSDI eligibility and the parsimoniousness of benefits ensure that SSDI is nearly irrelevant to that." }, { "id": "t1_opbdbch", "author": "/u/tiggonfire", "updated": "2026-06-02T13:31:42+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tup7x6/social_security_disability_eligibility/opbdbch/", "content": "There is definitely a correlation between being disabled and having high medical bills and a common intersection between the two. But yes, you can have one without the other. I don't believe i am conflating the two. I don't think SSDI benefits are parsimonious or irrelevant. They have the potential of being quite significant, especially if one becomes disabled many years before being able to collect social security." }, { "id": "t1_opcmhhs", "author": "/u/teach-xx", "updated": "2026-06-02T16:55:47+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tup7x6/social_security_disability_eligibility/opcmhhs/", "content": "The correlation mostly goes in one direction, though. Lots of people are bankrupted for medical reasons without coming anywhere near qualifying for SSDI." }, { "id": "t1_opcxzh5", "author": "/u/tiggonfire", "updated": "2026-06-02T17:45:32+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tup7x6/social_security_disability_eligibility/opcxzh5/", "content": "So are you in the group that has a plan for crushing medical costs or in the group that doesn't? If the former, may I ask what your plan is?" }, { "id": "t1_opd0lvv", "author": "/u/teach-xx", "updated": "2026-06-02T17:56:48+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tup7x6/social_security_disability_eligibility/opd0lvv/", "content": "Insurance." }, { "id": "t1_opbij3a", "author": "/u/PghSubie", "updated": "2026-06-02T13:57:15+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tup7x6/social_security_disability_eligibility/opbij3a/", "content": "I started SSDI at 52, have been on it for 5 years. I expect to be on it until 65 and then I get converted to normal retirement benefits. I don't expect to be able to work another day" }, { "id": "t1_opbkw82", "author": "/u/tiggonfire", "updated": "2026-06-02T14:08:34+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tup7x6/social_security_disability_eligibility/opbkw82/", "content": "Sorry to hear it. I am guessing you are glad you had the SSDI benefit when you started taking it. Curious if you were on a path to financial independence or early retirement when you needed to apply and whether you have an opinion as to whether it would be worth keeping up the eligibility by doing some part time work after retiring early? The general consensus here seems to be that it wouldn't be worth it and it seems I am going against the grain in thinking it might be worth considering." }, { "id": "t1_opbyxit", "author": "/u/PghSubie", "updated": "2026-06-02T15:12:47+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tup7x6/social_security_disability_eligibility/opbyxit/", "content": "Actually, my LTD insurance carrier took care of almost everything with the SSDI application. I was doing well with paying off our remaining debt (mortgage). I was enjoying my career and looking forward to doing some traveling." }, { "id": "t1_opch18x", "author": "/u/tiggonfire", "updated": "2026-06-02T16:32:01+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tup7x6/social_security_disability_eligibility/opch18x/", "content": "I hope you still get to do some traveling!" }, { "id": "t1_opchgeh", "author": "/u/PghSubie", "updated": "2026-06-02T16:33:52+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tup7x6/social_security_disability_eligibility/opchgeh/", "content": "On our way to the airport right now actually :-)" }, { "id": "t1_opcifq5", "author": "/u/tiggonfire", "updated": "2026-06-02T16:38:11+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tup7x6/social_security_disability_eligibility/opcifq5/", "content": "Great! Enjoy your trip!!!" }, { "id": "t1_opb71dy", "author": "/u/someguy984", "updated": "2026-06-02T12:59:56+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tup7x6/social_security_disability_eligibility/opb71dy/", "content": "This is true, my SSA statement says I am no longer able to get SSDI. Retired more than 5 years ago." }, { "id": "t1_opbmr4u", "author": "/u/tiggonfire", "updated": "2026-06-02T14:17:20+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tup7x6/social_security_disability_eligibility/opbmr4u/", "content": "Just curious if that bothers you at all? I seem to be quite alone in wanting to keep that benefit despite being FI and RE. I guess I will probably not be willing to work a little each year to keep it either, but knowing it will go away was bothering me enough to create this post." }, { "id": "t1_opbudcm", "author": "/u/someguy984", "updated": "2026-06-02T14:52:17+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tup7x6/social_security_disability_eligibility/opbudcm/", "content": "It doesn't bother me, but it would be nice if it didn't roll off.\n I read if your medical condition begins while you were working then it might start from that time, which would make it more than 5 years." }, { "id": "t1_opbv6h7", "author": "/u/tiggonfire", "updated": "2026-06-02T14:55:55+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tup7x6/social_security_disability_eligibility/opbv6h7/", "content": "Yes, true. It rolls off after 5 years if you haven't claimed disability before that." }, { "id": "t1_opd61k8", "author": "/u/someguy984", "updated": "2026-06-02T18:20:24+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tup7x6/social_security_disability_eligibility/opd61k8/", "content": "It could go more than 5 years, say your condition started 2 years before you retired while you have Social Security covering possible disability. The 8 years goes by you go on disability for that condition, you are covered because it began while you worked." }, { "id": "t1_opdvwx7", "author": "/u/tiggonfire", "updated": "2026-06-02T20:17:12+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tup7x6/social_security_disability_eligibility/opdvwx7/", "content": "So it sounds like the date you became disabled needs to be in the window of time before the work credits expire, but you can apply retroactively? Interesting and good to know!" }, { "id": "t1_opdwdh3", "author": "/u/someguy984", "updated": "2026-06-02T20:19:17+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tup7x6/social_security_disability_eligibility/opdwdh3/", "content": "I heard this on Youtube from a Disability Lawyer." }, { "id": "t1_opb8mw1", "author": "/u/si2k18", "updated": "2026-06-02T13:08:17+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tup7x6/social_security_disability_eligibility/opb8mw1/", "content": "SSDI is intended to replace some of your wages in the event you can’t work due to a medical condition that is expected to last one year or longer or the condition is expected to be terminal. If you’re truly FI you won’t have earned wages to replace, you should have health insurance to cover medical expenses plus emergency savings, and a plan for long term care, all to last the rest of your life, with a cushion in case you live super long or develop catastrophic medical needs.\n You could theoretically be self employed and pay taxes on the minimum $7,560 per year to keep your insurance current, and fill in a few 0s on your 35 year earnings history your Social Security Retirement is based on too if you retire super early. But if you just pay in the minimum for so many years your payments won’t be worth much, and probably not nearly as valuable as the assets you have if you’re FI, especially if you weren’t really a super high earner at any point. Then you have to medically qualify, and usually wait several years, obtain a lawyer, and appeal multiple times. The lawyer is usually entitled to a cut of your back pay too. Then you have to recertify your condition as frequently as every one to three years, and potentially go through appeals process and pay a lawyer for that too. For many, it makes more sense to front end load their assets so they don’t have to go through that.\n You wouldn’t be able to obtain a private disability policy if you’re not employed. Private disability benefits are calculated on a percentage of pre-disability earned income. No earned income = no benefit paid.\n You can purchase long term care insurance for profound conditions requiring home health aids or residential care like an assisted living or nursing facility." }, { "id": "t1_opbbd3o", "author": "/u/flickeringglitter_2", "updated": "2026-06-02T13:22:01+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tup7x6/social_security_disability_eligibility/opbbd3o/", "content": "The whole point of FIRE is having enough cushion that you don't need government programs, so most people probably just self-insure through their portfolio. That said, private disability insurance before you quit could be worth looking at if you're worried about catastrophic stuff eating into your stash." }, { "id": "t1_opbq6ud", "author": "/u/tiggonfire", "updated": "2026-06-02T14:33:14+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tup7x6/social_security_disability_eligibility/opbq6ud/", "content": "Well, many FIRE'd people, including myself, are taking advantage of the ACA tax credits and many wouldn't RE without that, so i don't fully agree. That said, I do think i have enough padding that I don't need it. I just don't like that it took all my years of working to build up to the SSDI benefit that I currently have and that will just cross over to being nothing overnight after a little more than 5 years. I think looking into the cost of private disability insurance might be a good idea so I can understand the approximate value of what I will be giving up...perhaps if I can use that price tag to assign a value to it, it won't bother me as much to be losing it." }, { "id": "t1_opcizl4", "author": "/u/flickeringglitter_2", "updated": "2026-06-02T16:40:34+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tup7x6/social_security_disability_eligibility/opcizl4/", "content": "Fair point on the ACA credits, that's a real factor I glossed over. But yeah, pricing out the private disability insurance is probably the move here just to see what that benefit actually costs annually, then you can decide if it's worth maintaining those work credits or just eating the loss." }, { "id": "t1_opczz7o", "author": "/u/si2k18", "updated": "2026-06-02T17:54:06+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tup7x6/social_security_disability_eligibility/opczz7o/", "content": "Another perspective is that your work history is not “lost” because you never became disabled enough to draw SSDI benefits - your annual work credits simultaneously accrued for Medicare eligibility (40 credits earns you “free” Part A premiums) and your earning amounts are simultaneously attributed to your social security retirement benefits calculation as well." }, { "id": "t1_opdbs55", "author": "/u/tiggonfire", "updated": "2026-06-02T18:45:39+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tup7x6/social_security_disability_eligibility/opdbs55/", "content": "My concern isn't for the scenario where I never become disabled, it's the scenario where i do become disabled just after my eligibility for ssdi expires but still well before social security kicks in. Idk, consensus seems to be that it isn't worth considering, but I still don't like losing it!" }, { "id": "t1_opb40c7", "author": "/u/GeorgeHarter", "updated": "2026-06-02T12:43:56+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tup7x6/social_security_disability_eligibility/opb40c7/", "content": "It’s a question for a different subreddit." } ] }, { "source": "r/Fire hot", "id": "t3_1tu817k", "title": "Lack of Motivation", "author": "/u/bigdaddy1835", "updated": "2026-06-01T22:27:36+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu817k/lack_of_motivation/", "content": "I’m 28m, and am suffering bad due to lack of motivation at work. I’ve never really cared too much about work, but recently my drive to do literally anything productive at work has gone into the toilet.\n NW: 700k with 150k of that being inheritance\n I’m at a point where the investments are really starting to roll on their own, but too early to retire. How do you guys stay motivated when money stops mattering so much?\n submitted by /u/bigdaddy1835\n [link] [comments]", "contentHtml": "

I’m 28m, and am suffering bad due to lack of motivation at work. I’ve never really cared too much about work, but recently my drive to do literally anything productive at work has gone into the toilet.

NW: 700k with 150k of that being inheritance

I’m at a point where the investments are really starting to roll on their own, but too early to retire. How do you guys stay motivated when money stops mattering so much?

submitted by /u/bigdaddy1835
[link] [comments]", "comments": [ { "id": "t1_op7n55r", "author": "/u/juneexplorer50", "updated": "2026-06-01T22:28:52+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu817k/lack_of_motivation/op7n55r/", "content": "ngl, motivation is a beast to wrestle with sometimes. def feel ya on that." }, { "id": "t1_op7p0bp", "author": "/u/StatementBoth2", "updated": "2026-06-01T22:38:59+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu817k/lack_of_motivation/op7p0bp/", "content": "In the same boat, think about quitting every day. Not sure how folks work for decades!" }, { "id": "t1_op8xht7", "author": "/u/StrategyAny815", "updated": "2026-06-02T02:59:18+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu817k/lack_of_motivation/op8xht7/", "content": "The concept of FIRE is ironically built on the concept that your job is something you want to escape from as soon as possible, which makes you unhappy. You can retire a couple years early but you still have to go through the wealth accumulation years doing something you don't enjoy." }, { "id": "t1_op7puz4", "author": "/u/prndls", "updated": "2026-06-01T22:43:34+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu817k/lack_of_motivation/op7puz4/", "content": "Yup. Welcome to adulting. Don’t grow up, it’s a trap!" }, { "id": "t1_op7o2c1", "author": "/u/vetapachua", "updated": "2026-06-01T22:33:52+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu817k/lack_of_motivation/op7o2c1/", "content": "You could be Coast FI already depending on your annual spending. Why not work part time or Barista FIRE?" }, { "id": "t1_op9e24x", "author": "/u/bigdaddy1835", "updated": "2026-06-02T04:53:30+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu817k/lack_of_motivation/op9e24x/", "content": "I live in NYC, not opposed to moving but I feel like 700k isn’t quite enough if I decide I want a family." }, { "id": "t1_opar0xd", "author": "/u/Montaigne_6823", "updated": "2026-06-02T11:27:28+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu817k/lack_of_motivation/opar0xd/", "content": "I would strongly suggest waiting until you achieve whatever leanfire is for you before taking your foot off the gas. Coasting too young sounds risky to me. Ageism is real if you decide you need to return to your career." }, { "id": "t1_opaghid", "author": "/u/Strazdas1", "updated": "2026-06-02T10:12:44+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu817k/lack_of_motivation/opaghid/", "content": "So he would have to stay even longer in a worse job?" }, { "id": "t1_op7nuqf", "author": "/u/ZadaGrims", "updated": "2026-06-01T22:32:43+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu817k/lack_of_motivation/op7nuqf/", "content": "Find something you do enjoy at work and do that or try too. I was in the same mode until I started to learn new stuff in the side." }, { "id": "t1_op8culv", "author": "/u/VelvetReactor14", "updated": "2026-06-02T00:54:18+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu817k/lack_of_motivation/op8culv/", "content": "The danger zone is when you’re financially comfortable enough to stop caring, but not free enough to fully leave. Finding something useful to learn, even if it’s not monetized, can make the waiting period feel less like you’re just watching numbers move" }, { "id": "t1_opblvqi", "author": "/u/bigdaddy1835", "updated": "2026-06-02T14:13:13+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu817k/lack_of_motivation/opblvqi/", "content": "This is good advice, and you’re right on the money with the danger zone hahaha." }, { "id": "t1_op8cr6v", "author": "/u/ZeroAtlas77", "updated": "2026-06-02T00:53:44+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu817k/lack_of_motivation/op8cr6v/", "content": "side quests are basically mandatory in the boring middle" }, { "id": "t1_op8t0ii", "author": "/u/Professional_Fuel728", "updated": "2026-06-02T02:31:13+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu817k/lack_of_motivation/op8t0ii/", "content": "Could you guys give examples of your own situation?" }, { "id": "t1_op9l8kc", "author": "/u/ZadaGrims", "updated": "2026-06-02T05:49:20+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu817k/lack_of_motivation/op9l8kc/", "content": "Coding and questioning how we work. Plus audio books so their never a quite moment. None coder still dont just learn how its done and us ai to do the code writing part. Small programs that no one should waste their time on in my field i would. Funny part is they made more time to do more of it for me." }, { "id": "t1_op7qn86", "author": "/u/KernalKorn16", "updated": "2026-06-01T22:47:49+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu817k/lack_of_motivation/op7qn86/", "content": "I need vacations to keep myself going back to work. Take some days off and usually you’ll come back refreshed. Plan events with friends or family every so often to keep you going as well. That or find a new job" }, { "id": "t1_op7wemt", "author": "/u/Bag_Holder_1982", "updated": "2026-06-01T23:19:27+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu817k/lack_of_motivation/op7wemt/", "content": "The ability to hold a good job and earn a salary is something not everyone has. You are probably a respected professional in your field and this is not to be scoffed at. Every day I sit at my desk and earn a living I am doing myself (and my imaginary family) a huge favor. Male early 40s, my job usually sucks but sometimes I can take solace in this. Extent of my deep thoughts on a Monday evening..." }, { "id": "t1_op9dy8g", "author": "/u/bigdaddy1835", "updated": "2026-06-02T04:52:42+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu817k/lack_of_motivation/op9dy8g/", "content": "Respected professional feels a bit too far lol. I’m a lazy piece of shit at this point hahaha" }, { "id": "t1_op7s0df", "author": "/u/DooMZie", "updated": "2026-06-01T22:55:15+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu817k/lack_of_motivation/op7s0df/", "content": "Similar issue here. I know it's not going to get better (only worse as networth increases), so instead I'm trying to find ways to make money that does interest me." }, { "id": "t1_opblqtj", "author": "/u/bigdaddy1835", "updated": "2026-06-02T14:12:35+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu817k/lack_of_motivation/opblqtj/", "content": "Which ways are those?" }, { "id": "t1_opew80d", "author": "/u/DooMZie", "updated": "2026-06-02T23:17:40+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu817k/lack_of_motivation/opew80d/", "content": "Accountancy practice and a niche sports retail company." }, { "id": "t1_op8enm6", "author": "/u/marcduberge", "updated": "2026-06-02T01:04:50+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu817k/lack_of_motivation/op8enm6/", "content": "Welcome to adulting. It sucks. It will get worse" }, { "id": "t1_op92mec", "author": "/u/Aggressive_Staff_982", "updated": "2026-06-02T03:33:04+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu817k/lack_of_motivation/op92mec/", "content": "I'm in the same boat. Same age with a bit less saved, but due to my savings rate I can retire when im 50 or even sooner. What helps me is to find more things to do outside of work. I volunteer once a week (or once every other week depending on schedules) at a horse rescue, and go to a book club every Friday. It's a nice way to unwind after the work week. Whenever there's a long weekend I try to take a camping trip or day trips around my area. I'm using up all my vacation days and have a trip planned to Alaska, Japan, and Antarctica that I can look forward to later in the year and early next year. I'm diving into new hobbies such has sewing. Having a rich life outside of work helps with the everyday work stress. And it enforces the mentality that work isn't your real life. Your real life is hanging with family, friends, loved ones, and doing what you want to do. This helps the work day go faster for me." }, { "id": "t1_opbloex", "author": "/u/bigdaddy1835", "updated": "2026-06-02T14:12:16+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu817k/lack_of_motivation/opbloex/", "content": "Alaska, Japan, and Antarctica sound sick! Those are good suggestions, thanks! And good luck to you on your journey!" }, { "id": "t1_opafya3", "author": "/u/im_locked_in", "updated": "2026-06-02T10:08:37+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu817k/lack_of_motivation/opafya3/", "content": "heh. My case is kinda extreme and definitely wouldn't suggest anyone to follow, but the truth is that the country I'm in on the 5th year of war. So, due to limited options, there is nothing else left except working 24/7 to stay sane\n So technically it is not a motivation, but this is the real option that let me jump into FIRE train and build 1M from 0 over that time.\n But maybe that's the part worth stealing: motivation runs out, it always does. What keeps you going is having a reason that sits underneath the money — for me it was survival and family, for you it might be the freedom that 700k is quietly buying you every single day. Money stopped mattering because it's doing its job. So find the thing money is for, point everything at that, and let the work just be the boring engine that gets you there.\n You're closer than you think. Keep going" }, { "id": "t1_opartmv", "author": "/u/Montaigne_6823", "updated": "2026-06-02T11:32:36+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu817k/lack_of_motivation/opartmv/", "content": "Great point. We westerners sitting on piles of cash and struggle with ennui. We need to remember gratitude and thankfulness for our cushy situation. Congrats on surviving AND building your stack!" }, { "id": "t1_opblj0x", "author": "/u/bigdaddy1835", "updated": "2026-06-02T14:11:34+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu817k/lack_of_motivation/opblj0x/", "content": "You sound like a better man than I. Good luck and keep pushing!" }, { "id": "t1_op7pvf1", "author": "/u/doulos05", "updated": "2026-06-01T22:43:38+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu817k/lack_of_motivation/op7pvf1/", "content": "You take a break and relax. Life is seasons, you can't go all out all year for decades. You need to give yourself some form of recovery. That doesn't have to be a full on vacation, just coast at work for a few weeks. What's the worst that can happen? They fire you? Sounds like you've got the funds to survive a bit without work." }, { "id": "t1_op9dvga", "author": "/u/bigdaddy1835", "updated": "2026-06-02T04:52:07+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu817k/lack_of_motivation/op9dvga/", "content": "This is a good point. I wish I could take an unpaid 6 month leave and still have a job to come back to." }, { "id": "t1_op9jq51", "author": "/u/doulos05", "updated": "2026-06-02T05:37:17+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu817k/lack_of_motivation/op9jq51/", "content": "It doesn't need to be 6 months to be refreshing. Even just 2 or 3 weeks of medium effort might have you feeling a lot more recharged. Wrap up a project or something and then just kind of... Don't fill that slot on your workload for a bit." }, { "id": "t1_op7q7k9", "author": "/u/Reasonable_Box2568", "updated": "2026-06-01T22:45:27+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu817k/lack_of_motivation/op7q7k9/", "content": "What is your salary? If it’s high then you should be motivated to reach multi 7 fig wealth because to be honest 700k is amazing for your age but not close to a comfortable retirement for most people under 62" }, { "id": "t1_op9dp8z", "author": "/u/bigdaddy1835", "updated": "2026-06-02T04:50:49+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu817k/lack_of_motivation/op9dp8z/", "content": "150k salary + ~50k in bonuses.\n Sure it would be nice to hit 10/20 mil but at the end of the day who gives a shit. There’s a point where all it is is a number and I don’t want to waste precious years of my life stuck in an office chasing a number." }, { "id": "t1_op7qfzk", "author": "/u/Dry-Atmosphere3169", "updated": "2026-06-01T22:46:44+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu817k/lack_of_motivation/op7qfzk/", "content": "Are you able to work at a different place that would give you more spark? I find that the biggest contributor for my motivation at a workplace is WHO I work with, so changing that scenery might allow you to continue working (if that is what you want) and enjoy it more also." }, { "id": "t1_op9dt8a", "author": "/u/bigdaddy1835", "updated": "2026-06-02T04:51:40+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu817k/lack_of_motivation/op9dt8a/", "content": "I could, I have only been at my current job a year though." }, { "id": "t1_op7tq19", "author": "/u/Pale_Fox_8874s", "updated": "2026-06-01T23:04:40+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu817k/lack_of_motivation/op7tq19/", "content": "Distract yourself with other non work and non FIRE related things. Time goes by pretty fast that way" }, { "id": "t1_op9drli", "author": "/u/bigdaddy1835", "updated": "2026-06-02T04:51:19+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu817k/lack_of_motivation/op9drli/", "content": "Good advice. How do you stay busy?" }, { "id": "t1_op86y3f", "author": "/u/quokkasage", "updated": "2026-06-02T00:19:28+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu817k/lack_of_motivation/op86y3f/", "content": "Good for you to have NW of 700k. Who manages your money? and do you feel secure that your investment will grow to be enough for the rest of your life?" }, { "id": "t1_op9dae4", "author": "/u/bigdaddy1835", "updated": "2026-06-02T04:47:48+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu817k/lack_of_motivation/op9dae4/", "content": "I manage my own. Most is in the S&P 500. A few others in solid companies, and some in cash in a rainy day fund.\n Do I feel secure in that it will grow? I think so, over the course of the next 20 years I absolutely think it will be better than holding cash." }, { "id": "t1_opbixgn", "author": "/u/quokkasage", "updated": "2026-06-02T13:59:09+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu817k/lack_of_motivation/opbixgn/", "content": "You are in a good place financially." }, { "id": "t1_op9egqb", "author": "/u/Available-Ad-5670", "updated": "2026-06-02T04:56:33+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu817k/lack_of_motivation/op9egqb/", "content": "if i had a dollar everytime someone posts this exact post. id be retired lol. not much you can do but suck it up and find some purpose in your life. don't waste it thinking about fire, these are the best years of your life" }, { "id": "t1_opagegc", "author": "/u/Strazdas1", "updated": "2026-06-02T10:12:05+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu817k/lack_of_motivation/opagegc/", "content": "Its called a boring middle for a reason. Just keep on trucking and keep investing. The sooner you get there the sooner you can be free." }, { "id": "t1_opaumf0", "author": "/u/itnor", "updated": "2026-06-02T11:50:04+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu817k/lack_of_motivation/opaumf0/", "content": "Perhaps the next market correction will give you the motivation you seek." }, { "id": "t1_opblcw7", "author": "/u/bigdaddy1835", "updated": "2026-06-02T14:10:45+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu817k/lack_of_motivation/opblcw7/", "content": "I’m honestly kinda hoping for this, light a fire under my ass." }, { "id": "t1_opbryl8", "author": "/u/itnor", "updated": "2026-06-02T14:41:20+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu817k/lack_of_motivation/opbryl8/", "content": "I’m literally twice your age. There’s a lot ahead. You are in great shape for your age. But we don’t know what’s next—systemically or individually. Especially given how young you are.\n This period is such an outlier in terms of market conditions…who knows what comes next.\n You don’t know now what awaits you personally. You or a loved one could face a dire health condition, but where a million dollars can buy you a cure. (That is not an unlikely future scenario, given healthcare innovation and stratification.)\n It’s tough to generate degrees of fearfulness if that’s not in your nature or experience.\n Perhaps instead, tap into other reasons to work. To make life for your co-workers better. Or for your customers. Find purpose in something closer and more tangible." }, { "id": "t1_opbc8k8", "author": "/u/2Nails", "updated": "2026-06-02T13:26:21+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu817k/lack_of_motivation/opbc8k8/", "content": "Oh yeah, I'm going through the exact same thing. 34M, still have at the very least 10 years to work, but can't for the life of me get any motivation to do anything.\n How do you guys stay motivated when money stops mattering so much?\n Well the thing is, it still does. Sure, now my invesments are, just like yours, outcontributing the salary, but if I were to stop working now, the whole plan would crash and burn very quickly. It ain't over till it's over. Frustrating as it is, we have to endure the last miles." }, { "id": "t1_opbho5a", "author": "/u/Vicuna00", "updated": "2026-06-02T13:53:08+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu817k/lack_of_motivation/opbho5a/", "content": "you are way too young to not be motivated. you gotta switch careers to something that fires you up. you have a LOT of hours left needed to work.\n just start daydreaming of what you wanna do / who you wanna be. do you need to train for that somehow? do you need to meet someone?\n are you having fun outside of work? maybe something external to work is dragging you down?" }, { "id": "t1_opbo2wf", "author": "/u/Particular_Maize6849", "updated": "2026-06-02T14:23:28+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu817k/lack_of_motivation/opbo2wf/", "content": "You take it one day at a time. Think of work as just a job. Plan things to look forward to on the weekends. Remind yourself of what things could be like if you lost your job and couldn't find another one and how far that would push your FIRE timeline back.\n I have zero excitement about my job. But it could be worse. It pays the bills and is highly compensated enough to make up somewhat for the decade I didn't have any to put away." }, { "id": "t1_opbotaw", "author": "/u/ShockerCheer", "updated": "2026-06-02T14:26:50+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu817k/lack_of_motivation/opbotaw/", "content": "I swear there is a segment of Fire who are people think they can fire without doing the hard work." }, { "id": "t1_opc4lik", "author": "/u/Nervous_Platypus_149", "updated": "2026-06-02T15:37:39+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu817k/lack_of_motivation/opc4lik/", "content": "38F and I’m so checked out and unmotivated in my job. I have enough that I could BaristaFIRE or go back to school for a couple years for a career change but not enough to FIRE completely. I think I would want some sort of meaningful part time work anyway.\n I am grateful for my WFH well paying job, but the actual work is so pointless and boring that I really struggle to do it. If I got laid off I would not be sad at all. I have a lot of unstructured time during the day where I’m supposed to be coming up with my own work but I can’t bring myself to do it. I still have to be on and available and also pretending to be busy so it’s not true free time and it stresses me out." }, { "id": "t1_opexgqt", "author": "/u/Acrobatic_Stable_512", "updated": "2026-06-02T23:24:26+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu817k/lack_of_motivation/opexgqt/", "content": "700k is a good start. You have a long runway to let it grow. Go find something you like to do and/or find meaningful, make more $, build a 401k, and live life. Stopping work is not the answer. Changing jobs is." }, { "id": "t1_opfqmvx", "author": "/u/Ok_Prune_1731", "updated": "2026-06-03T02:09:28+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu817k/lack_of_motivation/opfqmvx/", "content": "Use the lack of motivation to motivate you to save even more and maximize your income even more so you can retire early." }, { "id": "t1_opg7klp", "author": "/u/Grendel_82", "updated": "2026-06-03T03:54:35+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu817k/lack_of_motivation/opg7klp/", "content": "Investing through 2008 market crash (and living through 2000 dot com crash, though I wasn't invested at the time, I was aware) gives me some motivation to not entirely trust valuations in my portfolio that are at all time highs due to market being at all time highs." }, { "id": "t1_opgi7sa", "author": "/u/ToasterOven__", "updated": "2026-06-03T05:09:49+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu817k/lack_of_motivation/opgi7sa/", "content": "I was in the exact same situation as you and at the exact same age and networth as you 5 years ago. Looking back, the best things that I would recommend is getting more sleep if can, plan outings during your off time to give yourself things to look forward to, reducing your commute with a move if possible, and/or finding a new job" }, { "id": "t1_op8d1wr", "author": "/u/Mr--Clean--Ass-Naked", "updated": "2026-06-02T00:55:29+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu817k/lack_of_motivation/op8d1wr/", "content": "I’m younger & will be making 250-400k / year & im younger 🤷 maybe that motivation. Or donate to charities like I have been" }, { "id": "t1_op9d5qi", "author": "/u/bigdaddy1835", "updated": "2026-06-02T04:46:51+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu817k/lack_of_motivation/op9d5qi/", "content": "I could make a million a year and my day to day life wouldn’t change at all. I don’t care about salary, the whole point of the post is that that type of motivation isn’t enough." }, { "id": "t1_op9dyye", "author": "/u/Mr--Clean--Ass-Naked", "updated": "2026-06-02T04:52:51+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu817k/lack_of_motivation/op9dyye/", "content": "Charities are literally the “purpose” to life if you boil it down. Look up Einstein quotes and you’ll see money is just a tool nothing more nothing less" }, { "id": "t1_opbl6li", "author": "/u/bigdaddy1835", "updated": "2026-06-02T14:09:55+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu817k/lack_of_motivation/opbl6li/", "content": "I give to charities now. Maybe this makes me a shitty person, but I’m not going to work for 400k a year just to give it ALL to charity when I could just retire." }, { "id": "t1_op8w49n", "author": "/u/Menu-Quirky", "updated": "2026-06-02T02:50:36+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu817k/lack_of_motivation/op8w49n/", "content": "If you invest 1m and your portfolio grows 10% you made 100k . And it has to go on for long term then you will see the compounding effect." }, { "id": "t1_op9dhxs", "author": "/u/bigdaddy1835", "updated": "2026-06-02T04:49:21+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu817k/lack_of_motivation/op9dhxs/", "content": "Already investing for sure" } ] }, { "source": "r/Fire hot", "id": "t3_1ttpnzs", "title": "If your Withdrawal Rate is <2%, why do *you* have bonds?", "author": "/u/Vicuna00", "updated": "2026-06-01T11:44:25+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1ttpnzs/if_your_withdrawal_rate_is_2_why_do_you_have_bonds/", "content": "not looking to start a debate. I am wondering *your* specific individual reasoning.\n if you've been retired for a while and are to the point where your portfolio is huge compared to your lifestyle - say you are withdrawing <2% ... why do you still have bonds? what purpose / strategy do they serve for you?\n thank you\n ETA: some people are telling me i'm right about whatever.\n I genuinely am curious and looking to learn from those more experienced than me that are where I want to wind up.\n I didn't mean for my tone to be that it's suboptimal. just trying to learn.\n submitted by /u/Vicuna00\n [link] [comments]", "contentHtml": "

not looking to start a debate. I am wondering *your* specific individual reasoning.

if you've been retired for a while and are to the point where your portfolio is huge compared to your lifestyle - say you are withdrawing <2% ... why do you still have bonds? what purpose / strategy do they serve for you?

thank you

ETA: some people are telling me i'm right about whatever.

I genuinely am curious and looking to learn from those more experienced than me that are where I want to wind up.

I didn't mean for my tone to be that it's suboptimal. just trying to learn.

submitted by /u/Vicuna00
[link] [comments]", "comments": [ { "id": "t1_op401vd", "author": "/u/Front_Knowledge_4383", "updated": "2026-06-01T11:47:55+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1ttpnzs/if_your_withdrawal_rate_is_2_why_do_you_have_bonds/op401vd/", "content": "portfolio psychology honestly. when the market dropped 20% in 2022 having that 15% bond allocation meant i didn't even think about touching anything. sure it's not mathematically optimal but it lets me sleep and stick to the plan long term." }, { "id": "t1_op4hlk0", "author": "/u/leathakkor", "updated": "2026-06-01T13:27:15+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1ttpnzs/if_your_withdrawal_rate_is_2_why_do_you_have_bonds/op4hlk0/", "content": "I think people forget why we have jobs and accumulate money. Sometimes people start to see it as a game or strategy or whatever.\n But the real reason we get jobs and we accumulate money is that we want stability. The goal is first food. Than stability. Retiring early is a consequence of being able to provide an extended amount of stability without having to work.\n Every decision that you make should be in the service of that stability. And mental stability is just one type of stability.\n Money's only as good as what it can do for you and some of that is peace of mind" }, { "id": "t1_op5zdio", "author": "/u/Fit_Alternative3563", "updated": "2026-06-01T17:33:28+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1ttpnzs/if_your_withdrawal_rate_is_2_why_do_you_have_bonds/op5zdio/", "content": "Pin to the top." }, { "id": "t1_op412iw", "author": "/u/StrawberriKiwi22", "updated": "2026-06-01T11:54:20+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1ttpnzs/if_your_withdrawal_rate_is_2_why_do_you_have_bonds/op412iw/", "content": "Same here. I always was 100% invested in S&P in the accumulation phase. But now I just feel better knowing that I won’t have to sell equities if the market drops. Maximizing the growth of every dollar is not critical to my success. But the psychological security is valuable to me." }, { "id": "t1_opfymoc", "author": "/u/lseraehwcaism", "updated": "2026-06-03T02:56:33+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1ttpnzs/if_your_withdrawal_rate_is_2_why_do_you_have_bonds/opfymoc/", "content": "This is my plan as well. But how did you deal with the final redistribution of assets? Was it a “last 2-5 years everything went into bonds” or did you sell stock to redistribute?" }, { "id": "t1_op45c6o", "author": "/u/Agile-Ad-1182", "updated": "2026-06-01T12:20:12+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1ttpnzs/if_your_withdrawal_rate_is_2_why_do_you_have_bonds/op45c6o/", "content": "Except bond dropped too." }, { "id": "t1_op4a3wv", "author": "/u/craigzzzz", "updated": "2026-06-01T12:47:34+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1ttpnzs/if_your_withdrawal_rate_is_2_why_do_you_have_bonds/op4a3wv/", "content": "Not sure what you are being downvoted. Bonds did drop throughout 2022 and didnt provide the safety people thought they would in 2022. I have since learned a lot more about bond funds and how they work when sitting in a mutual/index fund." }, { "id": "t1_op4sr0n", "author": "/u/EmeraldCityMecEng", "updated": "2026-06-01T14:22:41+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1ttpnzs/if_your_withdrawal_rate_is_2_why_do_you_have_bonds/op4sr0n/", "content": "Personally, my bonds are mostly individual bonds that vest in 3 month increments that work out to roughly my quarterly spending. Market goes down a bunch, I spend the bonds that vest. Market goes up, reinvest bond cash into a new bond dated for 3 months further out than my current ladder ends. Don’t really care about what happens to the bond price as I’m never selling them." }, { "id": "t1_op5lud7", "author": "/u/ditchdiggergirl", "updated": "2026-06-01T16:34:29+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1ttpnzs/if_your_withdrawal_rate_is_2_why_do_you_have_bonds/op5lud7/", "content": "Bonds were the strongest component of my portfolio in 2022. Unless you count cash." }, { "id": "t1_opeuz3t", "author": "/u/Select_Pattern1287", "updated": "2026-06-02T23:10:55+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1ttpnzs/if_your_withdrawal_rate_is_2_why_do_you_have_bonds/opeuz3t/", "content": "Well yes, I do in fact count cash. Everyone should." }, { "id": "t1_op61ss9", "author": "/u/That-SoCal-Guy", "updated": "2026-06-01T17:43:50+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1ttpnzs/if_your_withdrawal_rate_is_2_why_do_you_have_bonds/op61ss9/", "content": "It’s Reddit." }, { "id": "t1_opfsgil", "author": "/u/whocaresreallythrow", "updated": "2026-06-03T02:20:01+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1ttpnzs/if_your_withdrawal_rate_is_2_why_do_you_have_bonds/opfsgil/", "content": "Safety is defined as a steady stream of cash flows? Or as a balance / value today for an asset? For me, knowing I will hold the bonds to maturity and get a cash flow every month without fail is security. The price of the bond drops. But just like stocks, it’s only realized is you sell. If you hold …. You’re gold." }, { "id": "t1_op4u5y6", "author": "/u/Sabeltheballer", "updated": "2026-06-01T14:29:20+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1ttpnzs/if_your_withdrawal_rate_is_2_why_do_you_have_bonds/op4u5y6/", "content": "If you held individual bonds to maturity you were not taking a loss. Bonds mature at par. You would be earning 2% interest rather than 4-5% though." }, { "id": "t1_op58f64", "author": "/u/FIREgnurd", "updated": "2026-06-01T15:34:46+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1ttpnzs/if_your_withdrawal_rate_is_2_why_do_you_have_bonds/op58f64/", "content": "You weren’t taking a *nominal* loss, but you were losing gobs to inflation and loss of income that the higher interest bonds coming into the bond funds were paying.\n Bond funds have the exact same risks as the bonds they hold. Bond funds are just a rolling ladder of individual bonds." }, { "id": "t1_op58bgo", "author": "/u/NobodyImportant13", "updated": "2026-06-01T15:34:18+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1ttpnzs/if_your_withdrawal_rate_is_2_why_do_you_have_bonds/op58bgo/", "content": "You would be earning 2% interest rather than 4-5% though.\n In theory, you could sell that 2% and invest that sale into a 4-5% bond for the same result end result, no?\n Because of the market (assuming you don't get ripped off in OTC market), it should end up with the same result, right? The issue is if you have to sell the bond and aren't able to reinvest it." }, { "id": "t1_op61h9b", "author": "/u/That-SoCal-Guy", "updated": "2026-06-01T17:42:28+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1ttpnzs/if_your_withdrawal_rate_is_2_why_do_you_have_bonds/op61h9b/", "content": "Exactly. If you want to sleep well through downturns just put the money in HYSA etc. that has a rate higher than 2%. Mine is paying 3.8% right now. Bond doesn’t make sense to me personally. But hey it’s a free society." }, { "id": "t1_oped2yg", "author": "/u/tomatillo_teratoma", "updated": "2026-06-02T21:38:06+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1ttpnzs/if_your_withdrawal_rate_is_2_why_do_you_have_bonds/oped2yg/", "content": "Bonds never drop. Bond FUNDS might drop, but if you purchase and hold bonds, they still pay the interest that was agreed upon when you bought them. Yes the value of the bonds on the secondary market might be lower, but it's possible to ladder bonds so you are never selling them." }, { "id": "t1_op49goc", "author": "/u/Visible_Structure483", "updated": "2026-06-01T12:43:58+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1ttpnzs/if_your_withdrawal_rate_is_2_why_do_you_have_bonds/op49goc/", "content": "bond funds, yes." }, { "id": "t1_op4a5uk", "author": "/u/abrahamlincoln20", "updated": "2026-06-01T12:47:52+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1ttpnzs/if_your_withdrawal_rate_is_2_why_do_you_have_bonds/op4a5uk/", "content": "All bonds except short term bonds." }, { "id": "t1_op4d0mk", "author": "/u/Luxferro", "updated": "2026-06-01T13:03:21+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1ttpnzs/if_your_withdrawal_rate_is_2_why_do_you_have_bonds/op4d0mk/", "content": "Which is what the majority of people use. There's probably a very small percentage of people who buy individual bonds." }, { "id": "t1_op4w7y8", "author": "/u/Visible_Structure483", "updated": "2026-06-01T14:39:01+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1ttpnzs/if_your_withdrawal_rate_is_2_why_do_you_have_bonds/op4w7y8/", "content": "maybe more might investigate the option when they find out not all bonds dropped?" }, { "id": "t1_op4zjp2", "author": "/u/l_mclane", "updated": "2026-06-01T14:54:25+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1ttpnzs/if_your_withdrawal_rate_is_2_why_do_you_have_bonds/op4zjp2/", "content": "All bonds dropped. If you tried to sell an individual bond after interest rates rose it would have been clear. Even if you held to the the end of the term, someone could have come along halfway through and purchased the same bond with the same yield and term for 90% or whatever you paid for it. Just because you never saw your individual bond’s mark to market price didn’t mean its value didn’t decrease." }, { "id": "t1_op58plo", "author": "/u/FIREgnurd", "updated": "2026-06-01T15:36:04+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1ttpnzs/if_your_withdrawal_rate_is_2_why_do_you_have_bonds/op58plo/", "content": "So much this. Bond funds are exactly as risky as the bonds they hold. Bond funds drop in value when the bonds they hold drop in value." }, { "id": "t1_op5jac5", "author": "/u/Visible_Structure483", "updated": "2026-06-01T16:23:07+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1ttpnzs/if_your_withdrawal_rate_is_2_why_do_you_have_bonds/op5jac5/", "content": "ok, you win." }, { "id": "t1_op697ip", "author": "/u/bachmeier", "updated": "2026-06-01T18:20:57+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1ttpnzs/if_your_withdrawal_rate_is_2_why_do_you_have_bonds/op697ip/", "content": "So if you had a TIPS ladder paying you $50,000 a year for ten years in 2022, how much would it be paying you each year that you could have used to cover living expenses? Are you claiming you can do the same thing with a TIPS ETF?" }, { "id": "t1_op52ehw", "author": "/u/Desperate_Stretch855", "updated": "2026-06-01T15:07:30+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1ttpnzs/if_your_withdrawal_rate_is_2_why_do_you_have_bonds/op52ehw/", "content": "How could a pool of bonds have any more risk then the individual bonds that comprise that pool?" }, { "id": "t1_op5982r", "author": "/u/Common_economics_420", "updated": "2026-06-01T15:38:22+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1ttpnzs/if_your_withdrawal_rate_is_2_why_do_you_have_bonds/op5982r/", "content": "not being able to hold the bond fund to maturity for return of principal.\n I don't know if that's more risk overall, but definitely a risk inherent to bond funds that doesn't exist in individual bonds. Possible the fund sells for a loss that wouldn't be realized if you held to maturity." }, { "id": "t1_op49yxi", "author": "/u/Visible_Structure483", "updated": "2026-06-01T12:46:47+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1ttpnzs/if_your_withdrawal_rate_is_2_why_do_you_have_bonds/op49yxi/", "content": "same here.\n I keep 7 years of expenses in bonds for just this purpose. that makes more sense to me than some arbitrary ratio to balance to. over time the portfolio gets more and more aggressive but my SHTF window stays at 7 years." }, { "id": "t1_op5os44", "author": "/u/sksauter", "updated": "2026-06-01T16:47:26+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1ttpnzs/if_your_withdrawal_rate_is_2_why_do_you_have_bonds/op5os44/", "content": "Would you ever considering adding years to your SHTF fund? So if you had really great years, you add another year to have it at 8 instead of 7?" }, { "id": "t1_op6pyo6", "author": "/u/Visible_Structure483", "updated": "2026-06-01T19:49:57+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1ttpnzs/if_your_withdrawal_rate_is_2_why_do_you_have_bonds/op6pyo6/", "content": "why? if we actually have a 7 year downturn it's unlikely we'll just keep spending at 100% of our allocated money right up until the wheels come off." }, { "id": "t1_op6t74h", "author": "/u/sksauter", "updated": "2026-06-01T20:04:37+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1ttpnzs/if_your_withdrawal_rate_is_2_why_do_you_have_bonds/op6t74h/", "content": "Just curious. As your pile grows bigger, might make sense to increase the cushion size. And 8 years straight of market downturn is probably not much less likely than a 7 years straight. Was 7 years a requirement for a specific reason? Or just sort of an estimate?" }, { "id": "t1_op6xse0", "author": "/u/Visible_Structure483", "updated": "2026-06-01T20:25:24+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1ttpnzs/if_your_withdrawal_rate_is_2_why_do_you_have_bonds/op6xse0/", "content": "it was originally 10 and then instead of rebalancing (which has tax implications as 65%+ of our wealth is in taxable brokerages) we just sorta agreed to increase our spending allowance and it worked out to 7 years.\n we're way under 4%, so much so that reddit will hate us, so increasing spending was preferable to a random rebalance based on arbitrary timelines." }, { "id": "t1_op6ius8", "author": "/u/MassiveDefinition274", "updated": "2026-06-01T19:16:41+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1ttpnzs/if_your_withdrawal_rate_is_2_why_do_you_have_bonds/op6ius8/", "content": "Yeah, I think something important to keep in mind is peace of mind.\n It may not have been the optimal play, but paying off my house, for instance, despite having like a 5.5% interest rate was so huge for my peace of mind. Like in between now and retirement, there are still things that can go wrong - and knowing that's taken care of takes care of a lot of anxiety, and makes my aggressive savings feel easier to do now that I know even if something bad were to happen, my footprint of bills really dropped.\n It can be easy to just look at this as a pure math problem, but underneath you're a real human with real anxieties. I grew up teetering between poor and lower middle class and would've never in my wildest dreams thought I'd be in the financial position I am in now, but some of what motivates me is this fear of not having to go back to some of the moments where I was supporting myself and my ex-wife on $12k a year and the overwhelming anxiety and burnout I had for that." }, { "id": "t1_opbtbhz", "author": "/u/No-Cat-3951", "updated": "2026-06-02T14:47:30+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1ttpnzs/if_your_withdrawal_rate_is_2_why_do_you_have_bonds/opbtbhz/", "content": "“When you won the game, you stop playing”\n I’ve heard this quote from multiple sources. I think this is the direct answer to you, OP" }, { "id": "t1_op5jjti", "author": "/u/mrdungbeetle", "updated": "2026-06-01T16:24:17+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1ttpnzs/if_your_withdrawal_rate_is_2_why_do_you_have_bonds/op5jjti/", "content": "Bonds only really offered protection in 2022 to the extent that you could live off the interest or you had bonds maturing. If you had to sell any bonds before maturity (or sell down bond funds) you'd also have lost money." }, { "id": "t1_op5rm93", "author": "/u/ResponsibleCorgi93", "updated": "2026-06-01T16:59:47+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1ttpnzs/if_your_withdrawal_rate_is_2_why_do_you_have_bonds/op5rm93/", "content": "How did the bonds help? During that time my bonds dropped about half as much as mutual funds. So I am thinking having some of the fixed income in t-bills would have been better for that scenario" }, { "id": "t1_op6d59z", "author": "/u/Nut_Butter_Fun", "updated": "2026-06-01T18:43:49+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1ttpnzs/if_your_withdrawal_rate_is_2_why_do_you_have_bonds/op6d59z/", "content": "In certain strategies, maybe mostly using leveraged products, the reduction in draw down will result in larger long term gains than either 1x investing or 2x all stocks." }, { "id": "t1_op432le", "author": "/u/seanodnnll", "updated": "2026-06-01T12:06:48+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1ttpnzs/if_your_withdrawal_rate_is_2_why_do_you_have_bonds/op432le/", "content": "Not in this situation at all, but if your withdraw rate is sub 2% then essentially all of the money you have is invested for your heirs not for you, so I agree that you can be super aggressive. That being said, many people subscribe to, if you won the game, why keep playing." }, { "id": "t1_op4dq4d", "author": "/u/Revolutionary-Fan235", "updated": "2026-06-01T13:07:10+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1ttpnzs/if_your_withdrawal_rate_is_2_why_do_you_have_bonds/op4dq4d/", "content": "Who stops playing a game that they enjoyed because they won?" }, { "id": "t1_op4g6cp", "author": "/u/db11242", "updated": "2026-06-01T13:20:00+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1ttpnzs/if_your_withdrawal_rate_is_2_why_do_you_have_bonds/op4g6cp/", "content": "Some people like removing the chance of losing." }, { "id": "t1_op4jh7q", "author": "/u/Revolutionary-Fan235", "updated": "2026-06-01T13:36:54+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1ttpnzs/if_your_withdrawal_rate_is_2_why_do_you_have_bonds/op4jh7q/", "content": "That's a totally valid way of living one's life.\n There's an element of being willing to taking chances that enabled some other people to save enough money to retire multiple people early.\n It's like a saver trying to spend more than they're used to spending. In this case, people have a 2% withdrawal rate because they can't physically nor mentally spend twice as much money as they could." }, { "id": "t1_op7a407", "author": "/u/cfi-2025", "updated": "2026-06-01T21:22:34+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1ttpnzs/if_your_withdrawal_rate_is_2_why_do_you_have_bonds/op7a407/", "content": "In this case, people have a 2% withdrawal rate because they can't physically nor mentally spend twice as much money as they could.\n That is certainly one reason. Another could be that they have a sufficiently large nest-egg and spending more than 2% of it per year doesn't bring any additional joy, so why bother?" }, { "id": "t1_op530u0", "author": "/u/Common_economics_420", "updated": "2026-06-01T15:10:19+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1ttpnzs/if_your_withdrawal_rate_is_2_why_do_you_have_bonds/op530u0/", "content": "The chance of losing in this case shifts to the chance you never enjoy life or turn into a miser vs the chance you run out of money. Life isn't a game where there's one singular losing end state.\n Seriously, a 2% withdrawal rate is insane. That's 50 years of spending assuming you get literally zero real returns from any possible investments over that period.\n If we get to that point, there's zero chance FIRE is your worst worry in life. You're going to be more concerned about government ration stamps for bread of fighting off roving bands of raiders." }, { "id": "t1_op4wek8", "author": "/u/glempus", "updated": "2026-06-01T14:39:53+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1ttpnzs/if_your_withdrawal_rate_is_2_why_do_you_have_bonds/op4wek8/", "content": "Who says they enjoyed it? Most people view it as doing something difficult in the present to make things easier in the future" }, { "id": "t1_op4evr6", "author": "/u/seanodnnll", "updated": "2026-06-01T13:13:17+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1ttpnzs/if_your_withdrawal_rate_is_2_why_do_you_have_bonds/op4evr6/", "content": "If it’s fun or exciting you might be doing it wrong lol." }, { "id": "t1_op4ij4c", "author": "/u/Revolutionary-Fan235", "updated": "2026-06-01T13:32:04+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1ttpnzs/if_your_withdrawal_rate_is_2_why_do_you_have_bonds/op4ij4c/", "content": "We're talking about people who are set for generations. By what metric are they wrong?" }, { "id": "t1_op4oe8l", "author": "/u/seanodnnll", "updated": "2026-06-01T14:01:36+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1ttpnzs/if_your_withdrawal_rate_is_2_why_do_you_have_bonds/op4oe8l/", "content": "No clue what you’re talking about. But most people build wealth through boring buy and hold investing in low cost index funds." }, { "id": "t1_op5jp8f", "author": "/u/Candid_Holiday1042", "updated": "2026-06-01T16:24:57+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1ttpnzs/if_your_withdrawal_rate_is_2_why_do_you_have_bonds/op5jp8f/", "content": "I'm not enjoying this game" }, { "id": "t1_op6af1e", "author": "/u/Megalocerus", "updated": "2026-06-01T18:27:54+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1ttpnzs/if_your_withdrawal_rate_is_2_why_do_you_have_bonds/op6af1e/", "content": "Who claimed they enjoyed it? They had a portfolio that worked; they are fine, now they don't think much about it." }, { "id": "t1_op40yfq", "author": "/u/Anxious_Noise_8805", "updated": "2026-06-01T11:53:37+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1ttpnzs/if_your_withdrawal_rate_is_2_why_do_you_have_bonds/op40yfq/", "content": "It cancels out my mortgage principal" }, { "id": "t1_op43t38", "author": "/u/Designer-Translator7", "updated": "2026-06-01T12:11:14+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1ttpnzs/if_your_withdrawal_rate_is_2_why_do_you_have_bonds/op43t38/", "content": "A portion of our bonds is for that. Basically cause we have an almost 2% mortgage and bought 10yrs at 4.5 the govt is paying our loan while we keep the capital in the end." }, { "id": "t1_op47e7w", "author": "/u/probabilititi", "updated": "2026-06-01T12:32:14+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1ttpnzs/if_your_withdrawal_rate_is_2_why_do_you_have_bonds/op47e7w/", "content": "In Canada this is tax inefficient. You would pay marginal tax on bond income but not get tax deduction on mortgage interest paid. Also in Canada all mortgages are short term (3-5) years. Finding similar bond allocation to cancel the mortgage liability is difficult.\n I know you mean the US but wanted to add this for discussion." }, { "id": "t1_op6bw42", "author": "/u/Designer-Translator7", "updated": "2026-06-01T18:36:25+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1ttpnzs/if_your_withdrawal_rate_is_2_why_do_you_have_bonds/op6bw42/", "content": "Yes in USA which is such a huge advantage for sure for wealth building when doing things smartly and disciplined in life." }, { "id": "t1_op512xx", "author": "/u/auroraborelle", "updated": "2026-06-01T15:01:23+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1ttpnzs/if_your_withdrawal_rate_is_2_why_do_you_have_bonds/op512xx/", "content": "Damn. Canada sounds like a rough place to buy a house unless it’s all in cash." }, { "id": "t1_op5eshb", "author": "/u/probabilititi", "updated": "2026-06-01T16:03:04+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1ttpnzs/if_your_withdrawal_rate_is_2_why_do_you_have_bonds/op5eshb/", "content": "Gains in principal residence is tax free so we have that. But having no longer term mortgages introduces a bit of uncertainty. Best defense is having liquidity to pay down mortgage fast if interest rates soar during renewal after 3 years." }, { "id": "t1_op5ny8h", "author": "/u/cdorny", "updated": "2026-06-01T16:43:47+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1ttpnzs/if_your_withdrawal_rate_is_2_why_do_you_have_bonds/op5ny8h/", "content": "Pros and cons right.\n No one gets locked in for 25 years at 5.5%, but you can't lock in 25 years at 2% either" }, { "id": "t1_op43s9g", "author": "/u/Designer-Translator7", "updated": "2026-06-01T12:11:05+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1ttpnzs/if_your_withdrawal_rate_is_2_why_do_you_have_bonds/op43s9g/", "content": "A portion of our bonds is for that. Basically cause we have an almost 2% mortgage and bought 10yrs at 4.5 the govt is paying our loan while we keep the capital in the end." }, { "id": "t1_op47mqm", "author": "/u/Eff_taxes", "updated": "2026-06-01T12:33:36+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1ttpnzs/if_your_withdrawal_rate_is_2_why_do_you_have_bonds/op47mqm/", "content": "That’s like having an apple tree and selling the apple at the farmers market. Meanwhile you’re buying apples to consume." }, { "id": "t1_op51f78", "author": "/u/aronnax512", "updated": "2026-06-01T15:02:59+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1ttpnzs/if_your_withdrawal_rate_is_2_why_do_you_have_bonds/op51f78/", "content": "Which is fine when homegrown apples sell for 4.5% over base cost and you can purchase apples for 2% over base cost.\n This is also how banks work." }, { "id": "t1_op50btp", "author": "/u/Beach-Knight", "updated": "2026-06-01T14:57:56+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1ttpnzs/if_your_withdrawal_rate_is_2_why_do_you_have_bonds/op50btp/", "content": "But the apples aren’t the same price. He’s selling his apple for more than the vendor is selling him the same apple." }, { "id": "t1_op6c3oq", "author": "/u/Designer-Translator7", "updated": "2026-06-01T18:37:39+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1ttpnzs/if_your_withdrawal_rate_is_2_why_do_you_have_bonds/op6c3oq/", "content": "Yes correct it is truly amazing how good we have it if conservative and disciplined in life to take advantage of opportunities." }, { "id": "t1_op430gg", "author": "/u/Hajajy", "updated": "2026-06-01T12:06:26+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1ttpnzs/if_your_withdrawal_rate_is_2_why_do_you_have_bonds/op430gg/", "content": "Exactly my reason" }, { "id": "t1_op42hjf", "author": "/u/Retire_date_may_22", "updated": "2026-06-01T12:03:12+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1ttpnzs/if_your_withdrawal_rate_is_2_why_do_you_have_bonds/op42hjf/", "content": "I am actually of your opinion. I’m retired and at about a 2% withdrawal rate. I can weather a 50% market drop. I’m about 95% S&P500 ETF." }, { "id": "t1_op5n74e", "author": "/u/altecsz", "updated": "2026-06-01T16:40:27+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1ttpnzs/if_your_withdrawal_rate_is_2_why_do_you_have_bonds/op5n74e/", "content": "What's the other 5%? If your withdrawal rate is so low than if that 5% is some kind of bond or cash that's a few years of living that you have not in the s&p as a wedge that you could use in a downturn." }, { "id": "t1_op5scul", "author": "/u/Retire_date_may_22", "updated": "2026-06-01T17:03:03+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1ttpnzs/if_your_withdrawal_rate_is_2_why_do_you_have_bonds/op5scul/", "content": "Cash in a high yield money market" }, { "id": "t1_op690ox", "author": "/u/play_hard_outside", "updated": "2026-06-01T18:19:51+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1ttpnzs/if_your_withdrawal_rate_is_2_why_do_you_have_bonds/op690ox/", "content": "Gotcha, so a small store which doesn’t quite keep up with inflation after taxes, but which you can rest assured you’ll have in its entirety in order to live for a couple years off of it during a real downturn." }, { "id": "t1_op49epv", "author": "/u/jeffeb3", "updated": "2026-06-01T12:43:41+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1ttpnzs/if_your_withdrawal_rate_is_2_why_do_you_have_bonds/op49epv/", "content": "I subscribe to the idea of reducing bonds in retirement via a glide path. Getting down to 20% or less of bonds, makes the most long term sense to me (just like your thesis above).\n But I do want to start with more. Because I am in the point where SRR can kill my plans.\n https://earlyretirementnow.com/2017/09/13/the-ultimate-guide-to-safe-withdrawal-rates-part-19-equity-glidepaths/\n That said, I feel more comfortable always having some bonds and a few percent in cash (in a savings account), because I like to know I can rebalance when the market moves. I also have some comfort if things went really sour. Maybe it isn't really worth it. But it works for us and our brains." }, { "id": "t1_op59rsw", "author": "/u/karrotwin", "updated": "2026-06-01T15:40:48+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1ttpnzs/if_your_withdrawal_rate_is_2_why_do_you_have_bonds/op59rsw/", "content": "17 years into one of the greatest bull markets in history, it's pretty obvious that the vast majority of people think that stocks outperforming bonds is divinely ordained and that the risk part of the "equity risk premium" only refers to a couple months of occasional volatility and that the real risk in investing is owning anything less than triple levered Q's.\n There's a few idiots amongst us left who are burdened by things like AQR's long term research that suggests there have been multi decade periods where bonds beat stocks even even within the context of the US having an amazing long term track record, that bubbles like 1989 Japan exist, or just generally periods where stocks underperform inflation and a 2-3% real yield on TIPs would provide a valuable hedge (related: ERN's article about bond tent impact on SWR). Don't worry about us, someone has to underperform so that you guys can all outperform, that's just how the excess return component of active asset allocation works." }, { "id": "t1_opahmxh", "author": "/u/BuySellHoldFinance", "updated": "2026-06-02T10:21:31+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1ttpnzs/if_your_withdrawal_rate_is_2_why_do_you_have_bonds/opahmxh/", "content": "I agree about tips. 20% allocated to TIPS really reduces the volatility in the 1965 stagflation scenario (I know tips didn't exist back then, but you can emulate it's impact). Technically 2% withdraw rate survives, but it's just better peace of mind." }, { "id": "t1_op405ji", "author": "/u/Complete-Paint529", "updated": "2026-06-01T11:48:34+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1ttpnzs/if_your_withdrawal_rate_is_2_why_do_you_have_bonds/op405ji/", "content": "Preservation of capital." }, { "id": "t1_op4l30k", "author": "/u/therealjerseytom", "updated": "2026-06-01T13:45:06+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1ttpnzs/if_your_withdrawal_rate_is_2_why_do_you_have_bonds/op4l30k/", "content": "Even if you have an abundant portfolio, why be stuck selling an asset when it's getting crushed?\n It's inevitable that there will be another equity market or broader economic downfall. Diversified asset classes with low correlation to each other gives you the option of what to sell. Bonds are one option and different type of bonds hedge different needs.\n Everyone's seemingly gotten overly comfortable with performance of stocks over the past 15 years..." }, { "id": "t1_op7pj5z", "author": "/u/New-Trainer3065", "updated": "2026-06-01T22:41:48+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1ttpnzs/if_your_withdrawal_rate_is_2_why_do_you_have_bonds/op7pj5z/", "content": "I think the point is that an asset that’s crushed by a 25% decline, but has run 80% plus in the last handful of years has still massively outperformed a bond holding." }, { "id": "t1_op40pb6", "author": "/u/ls1goat04", "updated": "2026-06-01T11:52:01+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1ttpnzs/if_your_withdrawal_rate_is_2_why_do_you_have_bonds/op40pb6/", "content": "I dont have any bonds today, but the only case ive seen to have them is for buying the dip or for cashing out during a downturn. Just having them to reduce the hit in a downturn doesn't make much sense as youre leaving money on the table most of the time." }, { "id": "t1_op426zt", "author": "/u/Past-Option2702", "updated": "2026-06-01T12:01:22+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1ttpnzs/if_your_withdrawal_rate_is_2_why_do_you_have_bonds/op426zt/", "content": "Makes sense if it keeps you invested during periods when you’re laying awake at 2:30am calculating how many additional years it’s going to take for you to retire. Assuming the selling stops now.. and it’s not going to and you’re sure of it. CNBC is full of bears telling you I told you so and you feel incredibly stupid for being all equities- not having sold sooner. The older, wiser retirees said that this was what it would be like. But.. Selling now will put the additional years of having to work pain to end.. so you sell even though it’s the wrong thing to do and you k own it.. but you can’t help it. The people on CNBC are so happy being out of the market and that’s what you want too. To be happy again. Selling gets you there. The relief once you strike the keys to sell on your iPhone is palpable. Welp.. you just set the clock back another five years.\n That’s why you have bonds." }, { "id": "t1_op5c3gd", "author": "/u/DigmonsDrill", "updated": "2026-06-01T15:51:12+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1ttpnzs/if_your_withdrawal_rate_is_2_why_do_you_have_bonds/op5c3gd/", "content": "JL Collins has referenced some data that 90/10 stocks/bonds has essentially the same end performance as 100/0 stocks, but with a lot less volatility along the way. I'm not sure of his source, though." }, { "id": "t1_op5n60s", "author": "/u/ditchdiggergirl", "updated": "2026-06-01T16:40:19+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1ttpnzs/if_your_withdrawal_rate_is_2_why_do_you_have_bonds/op5n60s/", "content": "Bernstein also discusses this. The theoretical max on the curve is actually between 90/10 and 100/0; somewhere around 94/6 iirc." }, { "id": "t1_op5wpom", "author": "/u/Past-Option2702", "updated": "2026-06-01T17:22:07+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1ttpnzs/if_your_withdrawal_rate_is_2_why_do_you_have_bonds/op5wpom/", "content": "10% bonds probably isn’t going to keep you invested in a face ripper bear market though." }, { "id": "t1_op8guje", "author": "/u/WeakestLynx", "updated": "2026-06-02T01:17:48+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1ttpnzs/if_your_withdrawal_rate_is_2_why_do_you_have_bonds/op8guje/", "content": "Right. Holding 10% bonds will transform my unrealized losses from 40% to 37%, not super different psychologically" }, { "id": "t1_op8ioey", "author": "/u/Past-Option2702", "updated": "2026-06-02T01:28:44+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1ttpnzs/if_your_withdrawal_rate_is_2_why_do_you_have_bonds/op8ioey/", "content": "Nope.\n Some people say by having 10% will give you something to rebalance into equities when they’re getting absolutely hammered, but a lot of those people would be too afraid to do it." }, { "id": "t1_op456r7", "author": "/u/princemousey1", "updated": "2026-06-01T12:19:19+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1ttpnzs/if_your_withdrawal_rate_is_2_why_do_you_have_bonds/op456r7/", "content": "I think most retired people tend to keep 5 years in cash or equivalents like bonds to draw down from." }, { "id": "t1_op5quo8", "author": "/u/dingodango2021", "updated": "2026-06-01T16:56:28+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1ttpnzs/if_your_withdrawal_rate_is_2_why_do_you_have_bonds/op5quo8/", "content": "I am sub 2% and 95/5. Here was my thinking at each step\n\n- Get to 4%. Risks to mitigate in this stage are inability to retire at all, unemployment or other emergencies, end of US job or market dominance.\n Solutions: 3 month emergency fund (job is stable, I'm fully mobile) then 100% stocks in 65/35 us/intl until I hit 25x expenses.\n\n- Get to 3.25% Risks to mitigate are ability to stay retired for 50+ years (I hit 4% early-mid 30s), mitigate the US market SWR looking like other countries, huge buffer to cover potential expense increases to live my best life as I might want to buy a house and start a family. 3.25% would approach 4% as my expenses would approach local median household expenses.\n Solution: same as above though I let my emergency fund go. Honestly, focus more energy on what my post-re expenses will be.\n It's at this point I have < 1% of failure in the US if my expenses don't change and neither does the system.\n\n- Fight other reasons retirements fail Risk to mitigate: me. So, I go first to the most common reason which is my own behavior. I am extremely comfortable through risk I've experienced, holding < 5k in cash since 2019, but started investing in 2011. 08-09 was way deeper and dot com was way longer, let alone the mid-60s through 70s. My immediate emotional reaction to big drops is the same as anyone. But even a mathematically nominal amount of bonds means my second emotional reaction is a positive one, that at least I didn't lose as much as I could've. Secondarily, at some point I'll be less intelligent and index funds may not be the preferred solution forever, so mentally having 2-3 years of "I fucked up, but at least I've still got something" money will help me adapt or actively not adapt when the time comes I think. These help me stay the course. Looking at type 2 errors, running individual year-by-year scenarios asking hard questions like, if you retire in 1973 and are at an 8% withdrawal rate in 1981 would you pull out another 1% to pay for your daughter's wedding? To fight going back to work when, in the end, you'd have never needed to\n Solution: 95/5, with the 5 in short term US bonds (limited a bit by 401k).\n\n- Swan hunting through diversity. Risk to mitigate: black swan event breaks system and exposes an all stock/bond solution's fragility. The bond market is many times the size of the stock market. Bitcoin. Raw mineral asteroid arrives. Democracy fails. Corporations get nationalized during WW3, or feudalism formally or functionally returns through the same. AI. AI means corporate growth dies and the world order ends in a way that stocks are nearly worthless. Climate change and all the rich people move to space or an island or whatever. Basically, any reason that the established system changes in a way that stocks don't help. The odds of this are extremely low, but attempting to solve these problems and lower fragility is probably a better use of money than attempting to turn an already 100% chance of success into a sturdier 100% chance of success. Low odds and low ability to guess the right swan mean allocating enough to be "bad, but at least I've got..." in a lot of the situations I can think of using mostly standard solutions.\n Solutions: Portfolio is 93/5/2. Add international bonds into the 5. 2 is alternatives like precious metals, minor options hedges against disaster if you want, real assets e.g. a small commercial rental or interest in one, I guess half a Bitcoin in cold storage you could fit in your butt or something. I chose to pick a fixed amount for these rather than hold to percentages but the numbers are so small it doesn't matter. Functionally this means my buys are 100% stocks after.\n More importantly, I'm spending money ahead of time to fit into my community and grow basic skills like carpentry, welding, languages, first aid, music, being funny and other social skills, basic hunting/cooking. Staying in good shape physically and mentally. None of these help in a world-ending scenario. But they're mostly fun and good to do anyway and would help in a 95th percentile scenario, which is more likely than your 2% withdrawal rate failing for non-swan reasons regardless of your stock/bond allocation." }, { "id": "t1_opcnyc5", "author": "/u/K_A_irony", "updated": "2026-06-02T17:02:09+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1ttpnzs/if_your_withdrawal_rate_is_2_why_do_you_have_bonds/opcnyc5/", "content": "I agree. A black swan event basically means any currently modeled realistic strategy would be out the window anyway." }, { "id": "t1_op4czmi", "author": "/u/Grand_Master_Gosh", "updated": "2026-06-01T13:03:12+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1ttpnzs/if_your_withdrawal_rate_is_2_why_do_you_have_bonds/op4czmi/", "content": "i keep bonds mostly for the sequence of returns risk even though my withdrawal rate is super low. its just nice to have that buffer so i dont have to sell equities during a bad market year. honestly it helps me sleep better at night knowing the cash is there if i need it" }, { "id": "t1_op5luxj", "author": "/u/anon2k2", "updated": "2026-06-01T16:34:33+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1ttpnzs/if_your_withdrawal_rate_is_2_why_do_you_have_bonds/op5luxj/", "content": "Not retiring until later this year, but this is exactly my strategy. I will try to have a buffer of a couple of years worth of funding available to use when a market correction happens so I don’t have to sell at a loss." }, { "id": "t1_op42d40", "author": "/u/Chicken121260", "updated": "2026-06-01T12:02:26+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1ttpnzs/if_your_withdrawal_rate_is_2_why_do_you_have_bonds/op42d40/", "content": "I don’t.\n When I was in the Army I purchased savings bonds every month. Cashed them in to help me get through business school after I left the service. Haven’t purchased anything except equities and real estate since.\n As long as you can ride out any market downturn there’s no need for bonds. Your ride out strategy can include fixed income (pension, social security, etc), cash on hand, or belt tightening.\n I prefer to own assets that are in the business of making money, not hedging risk, hence equities and real estate.\n I know this is contrary to what most professionals advise. But I also know that SP index funds beat most professionals…" }, { "id": "t1_op4lb5u", "author": "/u/saltyhasp", "updated": "2026-06-01T13:46:16+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1ttpnzs/if_your_withdrawal_rate_is_2_why_do_you_have_bonds/op4lb5u/", "content": "Multiple reasons. I group cash and bonds into my asset allocation as "bonds". So part of it is cash and near cash management including a bond ladder for that. Plus if you run models 100% stock is just not even the optimum ,never is. Models might show 80-90% maybe even 95% stock, but never 100%.\n Beyond that, I'm a conservative investor so I don't care to have more then 66% of my money in the stock market. Look at PEs and CAPE from 1960's to now. These values do shift over time. They shifted up big in the 1990s as retail investing went online and became common. They are even higher now. Record highs. This means either growth will be way higher (probably not in reality), or demand is very high (probably true). What happens when the demand gravy train ends. We could see the median PEs fall by a factor of 2 for example. Add to that even for dividend investing dividends are not guaranteed. So I want some fraction of my assets to have contractual cash flow generation. None of this is without risk. Geopolitics is hanging out there as an existential risk that is hard to address and know where that lands too either from the stock market side or the value of the dollar. So over committing to any course of action has added risks.\n Another way to look at this too is that it is safest to optimize for maximum drawing capability regardless of the level of drawing you use, or at least toward that direction." }, { "id": "t1_op98gbd", "author": "/u/etempleton", "updated": "2026-06-02T04:12:55+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1ttpnzs/if_your_withdrawal_rate_is_2_why_do_you_have_bonds/op98gbd/", "content": "I am quite confident we are heads to a sizable market correction in the next year or so. I think bonds are delivering strong yields and allow me to be more aggressive with other parts of my portfolio." }, { "id": "t1_op40ocb", "author": "/u/Fed_worker", "updated": "2026-06-01T11:51:51+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1ttpnzs/if_your_withdrawal_rate_is_2_why_do_you_have_bonds/op40ocb/", "content": "why not? 20% is pretty safe to me." }, { "id": "t1_op41bzo", "author": "/u/brute-forced", "updated": "2026-06-01T11:55:59+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1ttpnzs/if_your_withdrawal_rate_is_2_why_do_you_have_bonds/op41bzo/", "content": "Im on Vanguard. What is the best Bond to get?" }, { "id": "t1_op48rzi", "author": "/u/Jeff1732", "updated": "2026-06-01T12:40:08+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1ttpnzs/if_your_withdrawal_rate_is_2_why_do_you_have_bonds/op48rzi/", "content": "bsv and/or vgit. if you’re withdrawing from your portfolio I think you don’t want long term bonds. if you live in a state with income tax, treasuries are probably better than not. depending on your tax rate a muni bond fund may be even better." }, { "id": "t1_op47oq3", "author": "/u/jeffeb3", "updated": "2026-06-01T12:33:55+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1ttpnzs/if_your_withdrawal_rate_is_2_why_do_you_have_bonds/op47oq3/", "content": "BND" }, { "id": "t1_op4ef5t", "author": "/u/gumnamaadmi", "updated": "2026-06-01T13:10:51+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1ttpnzs/if_your_withdrawal_rate_is_2_why_do_you_have_bonds/op4ef5t/", "content": "The one that has a .48% total returns since inception? It was actually negative few weeks back. Criminal." }, { "id": "t1_op4hl4z", "author": "/u/jeffeb3", "updated": "2026-06-01T13:27:11+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1ttpnzs/if_your_withdrawal_rate_is_2_why_do_you_have_bonds/op4hl4z/", "content": "You don't pick bonds because they outperform stocks." }, { "id": "t1_op54zav", "author": "/u/gumnamaadmi", "updated": "2026-06-01T15:19:15+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1ttpnzs/if_your_withdrawal_rate_is_2_why_do_you_have_bonds/op54zav/", "content": "Yes. You also don't need bonds if you have a decent cash buffer plus your withdrawal rate is so low, you can still survive merely on equity dividends no matter the conditions of market. To each its own." }, { "id": "t1_op4pcxm", "author": "/u/forbiddenlake", "updated": "2026-06-01T14:06:23+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1ttpnzs/if_your_withdrawal_rate_is_2_why_do_you_have_bonds/op4pcxm/", "content": "The one that has a .48% total returns since inception? It was actually negative few weeks back. Criminal.\n Source?\n Since inception, inflation-adjusted, 10% total returns: https://testfol.io/analysis?s=2e12hS4EFnE\n Did you mean CAGR? (0.50% / 3.06% non-inflation-adjusted)\n VBTLX is even better than that due to being a few years older and the good bond market of the 2000s." }, { "id": "t1_op45x6k", "author": "/u/JaketheAdvisor", "updated": "2026-06-01T12:23:36+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1ttpnzs/if_your_withdrawal_rate_is_2_why_do_you_have_bonds/op45x6k/", "content": "At withdrawal rates that low, you're right that sequence of returns risk becomes almost irrelevant. Most people keep bonds for one simple reason which is to sleep better. Yes, mathematically I'd probably come out ahead going 100% stocks over decades, but the psychological comfort of that bond cushion during market crashes may be worth the opportunity cost. It's more about what lets you stay the course without losing sleep or making emotional decisions during the next 2008-style meltdown." }, { "id": "t1_op4a9q2", "author": "/u/Perfect-Hat-8661", "updated": "2026-06-01T12:48:26+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1ttpnzs/if_your_withdrawal_rate_is_2_why_do_you_have_bonds/op4a9q2/", "content": "If a person needs a drawdown rate of less than 2% the other side of the coin is, why do they need anything other than bonds? They obviously don’t need a high rate of return if they’re able to get by with less than 2% withdrawal rate. It must be a psychology thing." }, { "id": "t1_op6b202", "author": "/u/play_hard_outside", "updated": "2026-06-01T18:31:33+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1ttpnzs/if_your_withdrawal_rate_is_2_why_do_you_have_bonds/op6b202/", "content": "Bonds can’t support a 2% drawdown rate by themselves without depleting the portfolio relative to inflation.\n In taxable accounts, this can often drop to zero or even a negative percentage (meaning they don’t keep up with inflation after taxes at all)." }, { "id": "t1_op4c7x5", "author": "/u/DoinOKThrowaway2", "updated": "2026-06-01T12:59:04+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1ttpnzs/if_your_withdrawal_rate_is_2_why_do_you_have_bonds/op4c7x5/", "content": "We don't. Swr is sub 1 pct, we keep a few months of operating expenses in checking and a few years in HYSA. Everything else is tied up working for us." }, { "id": "t1_op4cjzc", "author": "/u/teamhog", "updated": "2026-06-01T13:00:52+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1ttpnzs/if_your_withdrawal_rate_is_2_why_do_you_have_bonds/op4cjzc/", "content": "For us, any earmarked money; short, medium or long term; is treated with safety. We don’t risk it.\n In our case we want to be certain we can fund our Roth conversions as well as our annual budget next 7+ years." }, { "id": "t1_op4fzmy", "author": "/u/Philip3197", "updated": "2026-06-01T13:19:02+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1ttpnzs/if_your_withdrawal_rate_is_2_why_do_you_have_bonds/op4fzmy/", "content": "stock market crashes with 50% or more, your witdrawal rate is now 4%." }, { "id": "t1_op69fh8", "author": "/u/play_hard_outside", "updated": "2026-06-01T18:22:13+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1ttpnzs/if_your_withdrawal_rate_is_2_why_do_you_have_bonds/op69fh8/", "content": "But whenever it doesn’t crash, you’re crushing it. To the point that after a doubling, you can weather a 50% crash and still be better off than if you were more conservative." }, { "id": "t1_op4pri4", "author": "/u/poop-dolla", "updated": "2026-06-01T14:08:21+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1ttpnzs/if_your_withdrawal_rate_is_2_why_do_you_have_bonds/op4pri4/", "content": "If someone is so conservative that they kept working long enough and/or are now choosing to spend so little that they’re at a sub 2% SWR, then they’re going to have at least a somewhat conservative asset allocation." }, { "id": "t1_op59y9h", "author": "/u/drawfour_", "updated": "2026-06-01T15:41:35+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1ttpnzs/if_your_withdrawal_rate_is_2_why_do_you_have_bonds/op59y9h/", "content": "Or they have been in growth stocks that greatly surpasses their requirements and now don't want to sell and put i to conservative vehicles vecause of massive taxes, so they just use proceeds from covered calls and dividends." }, { "id": "t1_op61l3s", "author": "/u/jrdhytr", "updated": "2026-06-01T17:42:56+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1ttpnzs/if_your_withdrawal_rate_is_2_why_do_you_have_bonds/op61l3s/", "content": "With an all-stock portfolio, recent market performance put me way over my FI number before I was mentally ready to retire. I'm sure I'm not alone in this." }, { "id": "t1_op6aaf8", "author": "/u/poop-dolla", "updated": "2026-06-01T18:27:10+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1ttpnzs/if_your_withdrawal_rate_is_2_why_do_you_have_bonds/op6aaf8/", "content": "When you say way over, you mean double? Because otherwise you’re not under 2% SWR." }, { "id": "t1_op7kvz3", "author": "/u/jrdhytr", "updated": "2026-06-01T22:16:49+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1ttpnzs/if_your_withdrawal_rate_is_2_why_do_you_have_bonds/op7kvz3/", "content": "Currently sitting at 1.4%. Turns out after a lifetime of frugality it's hard to flip the switch and start spending." }, { "id": "t1_op663az", "author": "/u/Ancient-Swordfish292", "updated": "2026-06-01T18:03:38+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1ttpnzs/if_your_withdrawal_rate_is_2_why_do_you_have_bonds/op663az/", "content": "It's all in 30-year TIPS, and they're living off the coupons." }, { "id": "t1_op5bm1e", "author": "/u/SouthernZorro", "updated": "2026-06-01T15:49:04+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1ttpnzs/if_your_withdrawal_rate_is_2_why_do_you_have_bonds/op5bm1e/", "content": "We're 50/50 stocks/bonds-MM because we don't need our investments to appreciate much more, but we do need to preserve the capital we have. This way in event of a crash we don't have to sell stocks at a loss." }, { "id": "t1_op5kdrq", "author": "/u/entropic", "updated": "2026-06-01T16:27:59+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1ttpnzs/if_your_withdrawal_rate_is_2_why_do_you_have_bonds/op5kdrq/", "content": "what purpose / strategy do they serve for you?\n If a 2% withdraw rate meets someone's risk tolerance, I bet bonds do as well." }, { "id": "t1_op66piw", "author": "/u/Ancient-Swordfish292", "updated": "2026-06-01T18:06:58+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1ttpnzs/if_your_withdrawal_rate_is_2_why_do_you_have_bonds/op66piw/", "content": "Could put it all in 30-year TIPS and live off of coupons at that point." }, { "id": "t1_op5ktku", "author": "/u/Eli_Renfro", "updated": "2026-06-01T16:29:56+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1ttpnzs/if_your_withdrawal_rate_is_2_why_do_you_have_bonds/op5ktku/", "content": ""If you've won the game, stop playing."" }, { "id": "t1_op6a4i7", "author": "/u/play_hard_outside", "updated": "2026-06-01T18:26:13+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1ttpnzs/if_your_withdrawal_rate_is_2_why_do_you_have_bonds/op6a4i7/", "content": "If you’ve won the game so extremely now that you can’t possibly lose the game by coming out on the unlucky side of a calculated risk, you may as well keep playing with even more chips on the table." }, { "id": "t1_op6coof", "author": "/u/Eli_Renfro", "updated": "2026-06-01T18:41:05+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1ttpnzs/if_your_withdrawal_rate_is_2_why_do_you_have_bonds/op6coof/", "content": "That would be the opposite take. Some people just can't help themselves. I was never much of a gambler though." }, { "id": "t1_op97l1q", "author": "/u/play_hard_outside", "updated": "2026-06-02T04:06:52+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1ttpnzs/if_your_withdrawal_rate_is_2_why_do_you_have_bonds/op97l1q/", "content": "I literally just described the rationale behind the bond tent idea. One you ease past the dangerous beginning of your retirement in which sequence risk is its highest, you increase your portfolio growth (which may increase volatility but decreases risk of long term failure) by gradually rotating out of bonds and back to stocks.\n Not gambling if it’s a positive EV activity!" }, { "id": "t1_op9ckvv", "author": "/u/Eli_Renfro", "updated": "2026-06-02T04:42:34+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1ttpnzs/if_your_withdrawal_rate_is_2_why_do_you_have_bonds/op9ckvv/", "content": "I don't subscribe to the bond tent idea either. It's still riskier to be mostly stocks, even with a large portfolio. Sometimes the certainty outweighs the "reward", especially when the reward is more money that you don't need." }, { "id": "t1_op5l1sv", "author": "/u/ditchdiggergirl", "updated": "2026-06-01T16:30:57+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1ttpnzs/if_your_withdrawal_rate_is_2_why_do_you_have_bonds/op5l1sv/", "content": "I’m retired; I have no need to gamble or shoot for the moon. I have always maintained an all weather portfolio that will never provide the best or worst possible outcomes. Just a good outcome with a lower standard deviation. It has served me very well for decades and I have no interest in changing that." }, { "id": "t1_op8v28e", "author": "/u/SouthernSteak7254", "updated": "2026-06-02T02:43:59+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1ttpnzs/if_your_withdrawal_rate_is_2_why_do_you_have_bonds/op8v28e/", "content": "Bonds allow you to be the only guy holding cash when the economy crashes. And having cash when no one else have is worth a lot more." }, { "id": "t1_op420x1", "author": "/u/CompoundingEinstein", "updated": "2026-06-01T12:00:19+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1ttpnzs/if_your_withdrawal_rate_is_2_why_do_you_have_bonds/op420x1/", "content": "Bonds in taxable brokerage are high cost basis, and selling them doesn't take up much LTCG room - allowing greater amount of Roth conversions without venturing into 20% LTCG rates. Selling the bonds to pay Roth Conversion taxes." }, { "id": "t1_op44eoe", "author": "/u/Eltex", "updated": "2026-06-01T12:14:45+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1ttpnzs/if_your_withdrawal_rate_is_2_why_do_you_have_bonds/op44eoe/", "content": "Probably because “personal finance” is personal." }, { "id": "t1_op44yr1", "author": "/u/Vicuna00", "updated": "2026-06-01T12:18:00+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1ttpnzs/if_your_withdrawal_rate_is_2_why_do_you_have_bonds/op44yr1/", "content": "yes exactly. I was just genuinely curious what people's personal reasons were.\n especially wanted to hear from people with experience who amassed a big amount of wealth (big in relation to their spending)" }, { "id": "t1_op47yvb", "author": "/u/TrashPanda_924", "updated": "2026-06-01T12:35:32+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1ttpnzs/if_your_withdrawal_rate_is_2_why_do_you_have_bonds/op47yvb/", "content": "At the moment I’m accruing a Treasury sleeve but it’s to wait and see what happens. At a SWR of less than 2%, you can weather any historical storm in modern history and grow into perpetuity." }, { "id": "t1_op4gv0t", "author": "/u/db11242", "updated": "2026-06-01T13:23:28+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1ttpnzs/if_your_withdrawal_rate_is_2_why_do_you_have_bonds/op4gv0t/", "content": "Even people with a four percent withdrawal rate would have trouble sticking to their plan when your porttfolio is down fifty percent or more within the first fifteen years of retirement. It's one thing to see that there was a fifty percent drop back before you are investing. That's another thing to be ten or fifteen years into retirement, your portfolio is cut in half or more, and every media outlet and friends are shouting the worst is still to come." }, { "id": "t1_op4hra4", "author": "/u/watch-nerd", "updated": "2026-06-01T13:28:04+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1ttpnzs/if_your_withdrawal_rate_is_2_why_do_you_have_bonds/op4hra4/", "content": "Because I want an inflation-adjusted guaranteed income floor that is immune from market volatility.\n And I follow LDI style investment principles." }, { "id": "t1_op4modx", "author": "/u/Sagelllini", "updated": "2026-06-01T13:53:07+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1ttpnzs/if_your_withdrawal_rate_is_2_why_do_you_have_bonds/op4modx/", "content": "Well, I don't, but my withdrawal rate is more like 3%, FWIW. But I wouldn't own bonds period, given they have done nothing versus inflation this century.\n If someone owned just VTI, their distributions for 2025 would have been around 1.4%. 80/20 VTI/VXUS would be 2%. VT around 2.4%. These would cover much or all of your spending, so SORR (which is vastly overhyped) would be non-existent.\n Own stocks in the accumulation phase. Own stocks and have limited cash equivalents in retirement (I have written about that on here). That's all you need to do." }, { "id": "t1_op4w1u2", "author": "/u/Helpful-Staff9562", "updated": "2026-06-01T14:38:14+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1ttpnzs/if_your_withdrawal_rate_is_2_why_do_you_have_bonds/op4w1u2/", "content": "Ibstill dont get why bonds are needed with such low swr and ling term view, its a waste of money" }, { "id": "t1_op5oe72", "author": "/u/Fit-Top-4465", "updated": "2026-06-01T16:45:43+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1ttpnzs/if_your_withdrawal_rate_is_2_why_do_you_have_bonds/op5oe72/", "content": "A good hedge against inflation; a good hedge against getting severely ill - in short, peace of mind." }, { "id": "t1_op5ro3e", "author": "/u/orthros", "updated": "2026-06-01T17:00:01+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1ttpnzs/if_your_withdrawal_rate_is_2_why_do_you_have_bonds/op5ro3e/", "content": "If you haven’t lived through 2008 this might be more puzzling to you\n If you have you probably get it" }, { "id": "t1_op84jqa", "author": "/u/Funny-Boss-8949", "updated": "2026-06-02T00:05:34+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1ttpnzs/if_your_withdrawal_rate_is_2_why_do_you_have_bonds/op84jqa/", "content": "And the dot com bust… This sub makes me feel so old 🤣😢" }, { "id": "t1_op63x8l", "author": "/u/That-SoCal-Guy", "updated": "2026-06-01T17:52:55+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1ttpnzs/if_your_withdrawal_rate_is_2_why_do_you_have_bonds/op63x8l/", "content": "If your portfolio is sufficiently large enough that you’re only drawing 2% (say 2% of $6M is $120K) then I agree. Personally I don’t care for bonds - I use money market or HYSA. I also do the 90/10 so 10% of $6M would be $600K. That’s more than enough to cover 6 years of downmarket.\n The 70/30 or 60/40 works well for retirees who are on fixed income and want a safe portfolio. Most Americans have less than $1M saved so this 70/30 makes sense for them to make sure you don’t get eff’d when the market goes south. But for people with a large portfolio and want to create generational wealth and leave a legacy to their heirs, it is not the optimal mix. They can afford to be more aggressive." }, { "id": "t1_op645z3", "author": "/u/honeymistxo", "updated": "2026-06-01T17:53:57+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1ttpnzs/if_your_withdrawal_rate_is_2_why_do_you_have_bonds/op645z3/", "content": "Bonds at a sub 2% withdrawal rate are less about math and more about sleep at night during a brutal market downturn when you watch your equity portfolio drop 40% and still need to pay bills. Sequence of returns risk doesn't care how big your portfolio is." }, { "id": "t1_op6gvvj", "author": "/u/Early-Ladder-9793", "updated": "2026-06-01T19:05:34+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1ttpnzs/if_your_withdrawal_rate_is_2_why_do_you_have_bonds/op6gvvj/", "content": "My WR is <2% and I have no bonds. I just reserve 4 years of living expense in cash and put all the rest in stock." }, { "id": "t1_op70imv", "author": "/u/Alternative-Yak5233", "updated": "2026-06-01T20:37:47+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1ttpnzs/if_your_withdrawal_rate_is_2_why_do_you_have_bonds/op70imv/", "content": "Someone said have 3 years worth in cash, bonds etc very stable. The rest in stocks. You always have a 3 year cushion for market bs. Seems reasonable to me." }, { "id": "t1_opcgmcb", "author": "/u/ModsAwful", "updated": "2026-06-02T16:30:12+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1ttpnzs/if_your_withdrawal_rate_is_2_why_do_you_have_bonds/opcgmcb/", "content": "We have annuities, which are the bulk of the bond portion of our portfolio. Of balance of portfolio 85% is equity, manager says the 15% in bonds is mainly for hedging. The annuities are our salary and cover our basic needs. How the portfolio performs determines our bonus, good year we have lots of money for travel or house upgrades. Bad years hunker down." }, { "id": "t1_opcqmtn", "author": "/u/laurenthu", "updated": "2026-06-02T17:13:47+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1ttpnzs/if_your_withdrawal_rate_is_2_why_do_you_have_bonds/opcqmtn/", "content": "At a sub-2% rate the "bonds for safety" argument mostly falls away, you're right. The portfolio survives basically any sequence at that level, so what I'd actually weigh is how bumpy the ride feels day to day.\n Two reasons I'd still hold some even there. Rebalancing is the first: bonds give you something to sell into an equity crash so you're buying low instead of just riding it down. The second is behavioral, which sounds soft but is what actually blows plans up. A 50% drawdown on an all-equity pot is a different animal than a 30% one, and plenty of people who "don't need bonds" on a spreadsheet find out otherwise the first time they watch a third of their money evaporate.\n Honestly at <2% it's more taste than math. If you've sat through a real -50% and didn't touch anything, all-equity is defensible. If you haven't, I'd be careful assuming you'll stay calm. imo drawdown and recovery time matter more than the CAGR people optimize for.\n Curious what your equity split is, and whether you've lived through a proper crash on this size of pot yet." }, { "id": "t1_opcw3fi", "author": "/u/Vicuna00", "updated": "2026-06-02T17:37:25+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1ttpnzs/if_your_withdrawal_rate_is_2_why_do_you_have_bonds/opcw3fi/", "content": "personally i'm ~100% equities. 70/30 (all us / all international)\n today I bought my first bonds. it made me cringe 😄 I'm gonna try to get to $150k in bonds by next summer and retire. that's the plan. I will have $1.5M in taxable and $1.5M in retirement (assuming markets stay calm). (my wife wants the bonds safety...or else I'd have been ok staying with equities).\n i'll be 50 and my wife will still be working. i'm gonna probably start a new thing but have no idea if I'll make anything. my plan will be to live off of just the $1.5M and just pretend the retirement $ doesn't exist. I'll be able to draw 4% from the $1.5M and that should be more than enough to live off of for us. (so that'll be 2% of total). I actually don't even think I'll need the whole 4%.\n the worst I "went through" was 2022 but tbh I didn't even know everything went down so much. I always just put $ away and didn't look. I've only been really looking and learning more this last year.\n so yeah def haven't been through a -50% and haven't been through a dip while drawing on my portfolio. (I've never sold a stock yet).\n i have been a biz owner for 26 years and a pro poker player for a few years in the middle there. so I understand the math and understand swings and stuff. so I'd say I'm as prepared as possible without having lived through it." }, { "id": "t1_opcyavi", "author": "/u/laurenthu", "updated": "2026-06-02T17:46:54+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1ttpnzs/if_your_withdrawal_rate_is_2_why_do_you_have_bonds/opcyavi/", "content": "The poker background actually matters here more than you think. You already get that the math and the felt experience are two different animals, and that's the gap most people fall into.\n One thing worth flagging in your plan though. You said 2% of total, but the way you've framed it you're living off the $1.5M taxable and pretending the retirement bucket doesn't exist. That's a real 4% on the bucket you're actually drawing from, not 2%. So sequence risk hasn't gone away, it's just hiding behind the second pile you're choosing not to touch. The bonds your wife wants are doing exactly the work that 4% bucket needs them to do, which is giving you something other than equities to sell in a down year so you're not locking in losses while you draw.\n The part that'd give me more pause than the -50% you've never seen is that you've never sold a single share. Drawing down feels nothing like accumulating, and that first bad year while pulling money out is where plans quietly get rewritten. Your $150k cushion is basically a couple of years of spending that lets you ride out exactly that, so honestly it sounds like a sensible move even if it made you cringe." }, { "id": "t1_opczcda", "author": "/u/Vicuna00", "updated": "2026-06-02T17:51:21+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1ttpnzs/if_your_withdrawal_rate_is_2_why_do_you_have_bonds/opczcda/", "content": "yeah my wife is for sure the more sensible one!\n I also understand that with poker you HAVE to lose. there would be no game if there wasn't a luck factor.\n same with stocks. if it steady went up 10% a year, it wouldn't exist. it HAS to lose sometimes.\n so when it happens I will not be surprised.\n but yeah...there's a mike tyson quote...something like "everyone is tough til they get punched in the face". so we'll see how I do." }, { "id": "t1_opdxyv1", "author": "/u/40gardener40", "updated": "2026-06-02T20:26:33+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1ttpnzs/if_your_withdrawal_rate_is_2_why_do_you_have_bonds/opdxyv1/", "content": "In an extreme deflation scenario, I want bond income to be enough to keep me going indefinitely without having to start working again. I mean like Great Depression level scenarios." }, { "id": "t1_opecoq4", "author": "/u/tomatillo_teratoma", "updated": "2026-06-02T21:36:09+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1ttpnzs/if_your_withdrawal_rate_is_2_why_do_you_have_bonds/opecoq4/", "content": "The bonds are there to get through a recession.\n It stinks to sell index funds after they've lost 50% of their value during a recession. I'd rather accept smaller returns, and own bonds (not bond funds) which I can rely on to not lose their value during a recession.\n A <2% withdrawal rate indicates that someone has "more than enough" by most FIRE calculations. That doesn't mean that they don't still want to manage that money properly." }, { "id": "t1_op42nb3", "author": "/u/supacomicbookfool", "updated": "2026-06-01T12:04:11+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1ttpnzs/if_your_withdrawal_rate_is_2_why_do_you_have_bonds/op42nb3/", "content": "I don't have any and likely won't. Growth is my strategy." }, { "id": "t1_op4wt8l", "author": "/u/Puzzleheaded-Net-273", "updated": "2026-06-01T14:41:48+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1ttpnzs/if_your_withdrawal_rate_is_2_why_do_you_have_bonds/op4wt8l/", "content": "Are you retired yet?" }, { "id": "t1_op4y0lw", "author": "/u/supacomicbookfool", "updated": "2026-06-01T14:47:25+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1ttpnzs/if_your_withdrawal_rate_is_2_why_do_you_have_bonds/op4y0lw/", "content": "Not yet, but plan to stay with moderate risk in retirement." }, { "id": "t1_op526w9", "author": "/u/Puzzleheaded-Net-273", "updated": "2026-06-01T15:06:32+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1ttpnzs/if_your_withdrawal_rate_is_2_why_do_you_have_bonds/op526w9/", "content": "And your plan for years with large stock equity pullbacks?" }, { "id": "t1_op56npx", "author": "/u/supacomicbookfool", "updated": "2026-06-01T15:26:50+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1ttpnzs/if_your_withdrawal_rate_is_2_why_do_you_have_bonds/op56npx/", "content": "I have an extremely secure pension that will act as my "guaranteed" income. My investments will grow in retirement." }, { "id": "t1_op5p4sx", "author": "/u/Puzzleheaded-Net-273", "updated": "2026-06-01T16:48:59+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1ttpnzs/if_your_withdrawal_rate_is_2_why_do_you_have_bonds/op5p4sx/", "content": "Ok, that's wonderful for you! I have a tiny one leftover from a previous employer. My brother and I are selling one of our 3 power transmission businesses this month and will be placing the new $$$ proceeds in my taxable Schwab brokerage account. Thinking about 33% short term munis; 33% VT, 33% dividend ETF's. I have a fairly large stash of SGOV as well, some Covered Call ETF's (QQQI; SPYI; GPIX); some MLP's in oil and gas and a lot of individual growth stocks (MSFT; MU; NVDA; AMAT; META; LRCX; AMZN; AVGO; Googl; LLY). Also have a nice stash of the VTEB intermediate- term muni bond ETF. Basically, I am all over the place with this taxable brokerage account😂. I personally plan to take some profits on the individual growth stocks, in a tax efficient manner, over the next few years and purchase more broad market based index funds to reduce my volatility. My spouse and I will be beginning our SS benefit this year @~$84k at the ages of 70 and 68. I obviously didnt FIRE, but love the concept! Hard to sell long-time held family businesses when you are finally ready to retire! 70%-80% never ever change hands even if they are put "on the market." This long-drawn out sale process has taken 3 years so far, with other offers that have either been refused or accepted and fallen through. TMI, I know😆" }, { "id": "t1_op5rpsi", "author": "/u/supacomicbookfool", "updated": "2026-06-01T17:00:12+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1ttpnzs/if_your_withdrawal_rate_is_2_why_do_you_have_bonds/op5rpsi/", "content": "Sounds like you're set! I like your individuals a lot. Excellent mix for some great gains!" }, { "id": "t1_op5vxmd", "author": "/u/Puzzleheaded-Net-273", "updated": "2026-06-01T17:18:46+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1ttpnzs/if_your_withdrawal_rate_is_2_why_do_you_have_bonds/op5vxmd/", "content": "Thanks! Just took a $61k gain on MU last month @$811.00. I had purchased 100 shares in 2022 in the 80's. I was up 841% and felt I had to "ring the bell." I am pretty sure my CPA will not be too pleased at me, especially with the big income year I will be experiencing this year with my business sale. Assume their will be some options for some tax loss harvesting later this year, but right now, all I see is green!" }, { "id": "t1_op43bji", "author": "/u/Designer-Translator7", "updated": "2026-06-01T12:08:19+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1ttpnzs/if_your_withdrawal_rate_is_2_why_do_you_have_bonds/op43bji/", "content": "My setup was to not have much bonds but enough to where in any bad downturns say -30% plus I can in those years be generating enough divs and interest to live off that easily only if needed so built about a 10-15% bond position the last year of work. RE about 1.5 years ago at 40.5 yo with 3x more $$$ than our initial spreadsheet 17 yrs ago RE goal number which is a dream come true so really no worries for us. TBH the 10-15% at this point it just doesn’t even matter it’s nice to just relax and no worry’s in early retirement I reckon and if something happens I could care less and won’t touch any principle." }, { "id": "t1_op497yu", "author": "/u/bankermayfield2026", "updated": "2026-06-01T12:42:38+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1ttpnzs/if_your_withdrawal_rate_is_2_why_do_you_have_bonds/op497yu/", "content": "Stocks dropped 90% in 1929-1932. It can happen again." }, { "id": "t1_op4nxl5", "author": "/u/Next_Permission3353", "updated": "2026-06-01T13:59:20+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1ttpnzs/if_your_withdrawal_rate_is_2_why_do_you_have_bonds/op4nxl5/", "content": "Well no global stocks would have dropped prolly 50% around that time. Still very painful but not 90%.\n Your time horizon should be many decades long and you should not be exclusively investing in the US." }, { "id": "t1_op5541w", "author": "/u/Mean_Ship4545", "updated": "2026-06-01T15:19:52+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1ttpnzs/if_your_withdrawal_rate_is_2_why_do_you_have_bonds/op5541w/", "content": "France's stock market was down 60% and stagnated longer than the US market IIRC, while livrets d'épargne invested in bonds through banks overperformed, especially given the 25-30% deflation in the 30s. Germany stock market did lose more than 90% of its value, with the war and the 1948 reform. Admittedly, the Nazi bond market got wiped, too, so technically the Nazi stock market overperformed." }, { "id": "t1_op6db0z", "author": "/u/play_hard_outside", "updated": "2026-06-01T18:44:44+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1ttpnzs/if_your_withdrawal_rate_is_2_why_do_you_have_bonds/op6db0z/", "content": "The valuation story is much worse than the dividend story. Dividends dropped much less, and yields (as a percentage of share prices) skyrocketed." }, { "id": "t1_op49f5m", "author": "/u/wrd83", "updated": "2026-06-01T12:43:45+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1ttpnzs/if_your_withdrawal_rate_is_2_why_do_you_have_bonds/op49f5m/", "content": "Iirc there is a paper/strategy that suggests it's better to hedge with foreign assets/domestic assets rather than using bonds.\n So could be that even for higher withdrawal rates this is not optimal." }, { "id": "t1_op4dqqs", "author": "/u/gumnamaadmi", "updated": "2026-06-01T13:07:15+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1ttpnzs/if_your_withdrawal_rate_is_2_why_do_you_have_bonds/op4dqqs/", "content": "Yep. And it's not that bonds stay up while market tanks. They all move in correlation so might as well hold growth/income securities/funds. If my overall portfolio is bringing in 3X+ of my spending needs, holding money in bonds doesn't makes sense to me.\n Asked the same question to advisor who was pitching their management to manage our funds. No real answers.\n Plus it doesn't takes into account, one can easily adjust spending when markets are not that good." }, { "id": "t1_op4lim7", "author": "/u/StrawberriKiwi22", "updated": "2026-06-01T13:47:18+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1ttpnzs/if_your_withdrawal_rate_is_2_why_do_you_have_bonds/op4lim7/", "content": "If you are holding actual bonds (not bond funds) then they DO stay up even when the market tanks. You have locked in your earning rate if you keep holding the bonds to maturity." }, { "id": "t1_op523e3", "author": "/u/Common_economics_420", "updated": "2026-06-01T15:06:05+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1ttpnzs/if_your_withdrawal_rate_is_2_why_do_you_have_bonds/op523e3/", "content": "A better question is why is your WR below 2%?" }, { "id": "t1_op5q4dp", "author": "/u/ditchdiggergirl", "updated": "2026-06-01T16:53:19+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1ttpnzs/if_your_withdrawal_rate_is_2_why_do_you_have_bonds/op5q4dp/", "content": "Ours isn’t that low but it probably could be (we are chubbyfire so have room to cut back). So I can easily see the answer from here:\n You work, save, accumulate, and plan for a specific date or timeframe - and then the stock market goes stark raving mad towards the end of that and you end up with double what you planned.\n Some would of course bail early, especially on this employment averse sub. But some of us are happy with our lives and the timeline we’d already mapped out." }, { "id": "t1_op69g65", "author": "/u/Common_economics_420", "updated": "2026-06-01T18:22:20+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1ttpnzs/if_your_withdrawal_rate_is_2_why_do_you_have_bonds/op69g65/", "content": "Why not just...withdraw more money? Or use something like a ratcheting strategy that increases over time. Seems like you're leaving a massive amount on the table in that case. Considering this also would preclude giving money to your heirs prior to death, it just seems very inefficient." }, { "id": "t1_op6iqo2", "author": "/u/ditchdiggergirl", "updated": "2026-06-01T19:16:05+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1ttpnzs/if_your_withdrawal_rate_is_2_why_do_you_have_bonds/op6iqo2/", "content": "We are? We are chubby fire." }, { "id": "t1_op6r7ct", "author": "/u/Common_economics_420", "updated": "2026-06-01T19:55:34+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1ttpnzs/if_your_withdrawal_rate_is_2_why_do_you_have_bonds/op6r7ct/", "content": "The royal "you." You in this context obviously being the hypothetical person withdrawing less than 2%" }, { "id": "t1_op6z42c", "author": "/u/ditchdiggergirl", "updated": "2026-06-01T20:31:23+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1ttpnzs/if_your_withdrawal_rate_is_2_why_do_you_have_bonds/op6z42c/", "content": "That hypothetical person is also now chubby fire and can withdraw whatever she wants - the amount she originally projected, double her original budget, or anywhere in between. It is not a failure of planning to have the outcome exceed projections. And she is not required to spend down her portfolio simply because the market went wild. Some people know what makes them happy and I think we can safely let them make their own financial decisions." }, { "id": "t1_op70xzn", "author": "/u/Common_economics_420", "updated": "2026-06-01T20:39:44+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1ttpnzs/if_your_withdrawal_rate_is_2_why_do_you_have_bonds/op70xzn/", "content": "They're free to make their own financial decisions. I'm free to point out that it's leaving a massive amount on the table 😊.\n Your outcome well exceeding your projections could actually be considered a failure IMO. It's money that you aren't using and that won't be used by your heirs at an optimal time (the earlier in someone's life they get money, the more use they can get out of it. Less value in leaving someone $1m when they turn 60 vs giving them money when they're 25). If not a failure, certainly sub optimal.\n Anyway, have a good one." }, { "id": "t1_op82vlo", "author": "/u/ditchdiggergirl", "updated": "2026-06-01T23:55:56+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1ttpnzs/if_your_withdrawal_rate_is_2_why_do_you_have_bonds/op82vlo/", "content": "They are of course free to leave a massive amount on the table if that is their decision. Few would make that choice, but since it’s what comes to your mind as a default, maybe you would. No judgement; your money your call." }, { "id": "t1_op6hcrw", "author": "/u/Early-Ladder-9793", "updated": "2026-06-01T19:08:20+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1ttpnzs/if_your_withdrawal_rate_is_2_why_do_you_have_bonds/op6hcrw/", "content": "Because people can bank a huge amount of money in a short period of time. Assets do not always accrue linearly. For example, when a company goes IPO, a bunch of employees can get a huge amount over night." }, { "id": "t1_op6hnnd", "author": "/u/Common_economics_420", "updated": "2026-06-01T19:10:07+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1ttpnzs/if_your_withdrawal_rate_is_2_why_do_you_have_bonds/op6hnnd/", "content": "And that's something you should 100% be accounting for in your withdrawal rate.\n We're talking about assets going 75%+ above what would already be a very safe withdrawal rate for FIRE (3.5%). Your plan ABSOLUTELY needs to change to account for that massive of a change." }, { "id": "t1_op6jgpj", "author": "/u/Early-Ladder-9793", "updated": "2026-06-01T19:19:47+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1ttpnzs/if_your_withdrawal_rate_is_2_why_do_you_have_bonds/op6jgpj/", "content": "I mean some people just achieve the FI with a dramatic asset change, like win a lottery or sell a business or cash out an IPO. Their WR at the start is <2%, and it is not because of conservativeness.\n And in terms of why not withdraw more money, we do not need it. Once asset is over a threshold, it is just a number. My WR is ~1%, but that is all I need. I cannot simply eat 10 meals a day because I can afford so." }, { "id": "t1_op6qfh6", "author": "/u/Common_economics_420", "updated": "2026-06-01T19:52:04+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1ttpnzs/if_your_withdrawal_rate_is_2_why_do_you_have_bonds/op6qfh6/", "content": "The last point makes absolutely zero sense to me because it isn't as if varying amounts of commoditized gruel is the only thing anyone can spend money on.\n Even if you eschew mindless consumerism completely, there's an almost endless amount of things that you can (and probably should) spend money on." }, { "id": "t1_op6sk67", "author": "/u/Early-Ladder-9793", "updated": "2026-06-01T20:01:40+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1ttpnzs/if_your_withdrawal_rate_is_2_why_do_you_have_bonds/op6sk67/", "content": "well, maybe someday I can find something to spend money on. but right now, I am content with my lifestyle and don't see a need to up my spending." }, { "id": "t1_op6uslz", "author": "/u/Common_economics_420", "updated": "2026-06-01T20:11:53+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1ttpnzs/if_your_withdrawal_rate_is_2_why_do_you_have_bonds/op6uslz/", "content": "Personally this feels really depressing. This line of reasoning goes hand in hand with not having any worthwhile hobbies and being a boring person.\n Unfortunately, a lot of FIRE people do both and justify never getting out of their comfort zone or trying anything new by couching it as "financial responsibility."" }, { "id": "t1_op6wwru", "author": "/u/Early-Ladder-9793", "updated": "2026-06-01T20:21:26+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1ttpnzs/if_your_withdrawal_rate_is_2_why_do_you_have_bonds/op6wwru/", "content": "Yeah, I guess this depends on personality. I don't think I justify my low WR with "financial responsibility" though. Rationally, I understand I have way more than I need in my life, and will likely leave sizable estate to my chidren and even their heirs. I just do not feel there is anything that I am tempted to spend sigficant more on. Everyday life/hobbies have already been well funded, and I am not looking to own a mansion or private jet." }, { "id": "t1_op71nvw", "author": "/u/Common_economics_420", "updated": "2026-06-01T20:43:02+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1ttpnzs/if_your_withdrawal_rate_is_2_why_do_you_have_bonds/op71nvw/", "content": "I always find it funny that the LeanFIRE people or people with really low WRs are always simultaneously not spending much, but also coincidentally have their life and hobbies fully funded the second you point out their life sounds boring. Tells me a lot that your go to example for not spending more is that you can't eat 10 meals instead of one.\n Anyway, have a good one." }, { "id": "t1_op64a4r", "author": "/u/Vicuna00", "updated": "2026-06-01T17:54:29+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1ttpnzs/if_your_withdrawal_rate_is_2_why_do_you_have_bonds/op64a4r/", "content": "i bet there's a bunch of people who retired with 4% in mind and their portfolios have 2-3x over the last 5-10 years...or people who retired without FIRE or something. inheritances. oversaving. i dunno?" }, { "id": "t1_op69p08", "author": "/u/Common_economics_420", "updated": "2026-06-01T18:23:44+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1ttpnzs/if_your_withdrawal_rate_is_2_why_do_you_have_bonds/op69p08/", "content": "That 4% isnt 4% of your portfolio every year though. It's 4% of your starting portfolio adjusted for inflation.\n Theres basically no common withdrawal strategies that involve a flat % of your current portfolio every year. This probably explains some of your issues here." }, { "id": "t1_op6icrh", "author": "/u/Vicuna00", "updated": "2026-06-01T19:14:01+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1ttpnzs/if_your_withdrawal_rate_is_2_why_do_you_have_bonds/op6icrh/", "content": "i don't have any issues.\n here's an example:\n you retire at 60 years old in 2020 and started with $1M and withdraw $40k plus inflation raises yearly\n stocks went nuts and you started to collect social security. your portfolio is now $1.8M and you're withdrawing $50k and lifestyle didn't creep up." }, { "id": "t1_op6oh31", "author": "/u/Common_economics_420", "updated": "2026-06-01T19:43:18+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1ttpnzs/if_your_withdrawal_rate_is_2_why_do_you_have_bonds/op6oh31/", "content": "The 4% rule is designed to account for strong years in the market and for bad years. The idea would be that these strong years balance out the bad years. What if 6 strong years after 2020 leads to 6 weaker years, as an example?\n There's a reason you don't hear much about year to year withdrawal rates in FIRE plans. It's a very, very volatile way to plan retirement. You wind up with huge swings in your income." }, { "id": "t1_op5e8oe", "author": "/u/Witty-Drama-3187", "updated": "2026-06-01T16:00:38+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1ttpnzs/if_your_withdrawal_rate_is_2_why_do_you_have_bonds/op5e8oe/", "content": "Something I've been thinking about that is sort of correlated, and not worth it's own post. If anyone has thoughts please share.\n The common wisdom in retirement is you are holding somewhere between 70% (conservative) to 30% (aggressive) of your portfolio in bonds or bond equivalents for all the well known reasons.\n Given that history shows most severe market downturns correct within a period of 4-7 years, I've been debating a different strategy. What if I kept 6 years worth of living expenses in a liquid cash account such as a HYSA, money market account, or T bills.( In my case based on spending this would amount to roughly 20-25% of my overall portfolio value), and then just left the balance of the portfolio in 100% equities? (index funds). The cash account would be there to dip into in the event of a market downturn only, so that I am not withdrawing from the equity account in a down market.\n What might be the tax implications of this? Is it better to just leave the 20-25% in bond funds as opposed to the setup I describe above?" }, { "id": "t1_op6co4a", "author": "/u/play_hard_outside", "updated": "2026-06-01T18:41:00+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1ttpnzs/if_your_withdrawal_rate_is_2_why_do_you_have_bonds/op6co4a/", "content": "I did exactly what you did, but with one modification. The six year “e-fund” bond allocation you describe is actually in the form of an amount of stocks with a face value that would last twelve years of spending. I mentally discount the value of that tranche of stocks to half its face value (so, the six years of spending), to account for the fact that it could be cut in half any time. That said, I don’t reduce the mentally discounted value during a downturn, because aside from the Great Depression, no downturns have sustained drawdowns of more than 50% from prior peaks for very long at all. So, this tranche of stocks is always valued at 50% of whatever it’s all-time-high face value was.\n My SWR is based on an adjusted net worth which accounts for this undercounting of a certain amount of my stock value. In return for this mental stunt, I get the massive growth of the stock market even on my “cash-valued” e-fund.\n What this really means is that in practice, I’m 100% stocks, and keep my withdrawal rate against my real total net worth lower than would make sense for a “properly” allocated portfolio. During a downturn, I’ll allow my withdrawal rate to come up somewhat. The math works out, but it’s much easier than doing all that math just to have plenty of money for your lifestyle (meaning, don’t overspend)." }, { "id": "t1_op6i0p5", "author": "/u/Witty-Drama-3187", "updated": "2026-06-01T19:12:11+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1ttpnzs/if_your_withdrawal_rate_is_2_why_do_you_have_bonds/op6i0p5/", "content": "Got it. Thanks for the feedback.\n So in essence, you are 100% equity, but are withdrawing as if you don't "own" a certain percentage of the portfolio, correct?\n As far as this "tranche" of stocks, are you in mutual funds/ETFs or actual individual stocks?" }, { "id": "t1_op8fmmr", "author": "/u/play_hard_outside", "updated": "2026-06-02T01:10:29+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1ttpnzs/if_your_withdrawal_rate_is_2_why_do_you_have_bonds/op8fmmr/", "content": "Ah, and I will add -- the entire reason I have been thinking like this is because I really dislike bonds as an asset class.\n Maybe it's because I retired early and only have sub-$1M in tax-advantaged retirement accounts (the rest is taxable), but the fact that the entire bond yield is taxed in the year you receive it makes even bonds which nominally beat inflation... tend not to beat inflation.\n Imagine a $1M tranche of 5% bonds. Yield is $50k. Tax on that $50k is at least $15k. You keep $35k. Inflation is 3.8%. If the $1M tranche of bonds is not augmented to be worth $1.038M by next year, its inflation-adjusted value has decreased. So, you must plow in the entire $35k after-tax yield back into your bonds, just to keep them from having shrunk (much). They did not spit off any spendable income, and if you want to split hairs, you still need to bring in an additional $3k from somewhere else to add to that pile to keep it up with CPI.\n And note that this reality is still substantially better than the reality in which I retired, which was when bonds were yielding 1 or 2 percent rather than 4 or 5.\n Holding bonds in an environment like this does nothing to move you forward, and one of the biggest risks over a 60 year retired time frame (perhaps as big as sequence risk!) is chronically insufficient growth. Bonds are ballast against losses, yes, but they do so by functioning like deadweight. And, spending from bonds during market downturns (to avoid selling stocks) is almost like timing the market. You're deciding whether (meaning just what ) to sell based on whether you think the value of your stock will rise again soon or not.\n I figured I'd create my safety margin by accumulating some more wealth instead of allocating toward bonds as loss prevention, and the growth should mathematically be worth it. So far, it has, and while I expect some nasty volatility over my lifetime, my mental model helps smooth that out in nearly the exact same mathematical way that a big hefty bond allocation would!" }, { "id": "t1_op8ogcg", "author": "/u/Witty-Drama-3187", "updated": "2026-06-02T02:03:33+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1ttpnzs/if_your_withdrawal_rate_is_2_why_do_you_have_bonds/op8ogcg/", "content": "I get your logic, thanks for sharing.\n One of the things I take away from these forums is there is many different ways to do it all. I definitely get the appeal of being in 100% equities forever and withdrawing at a more conservative rate based on a lower “logical” net worth.\n Lots to think about when the day comes" }, { "id": "t1_op8d3p1", "author": "/u/play_hard_outside", "updated": "2026-06-02T00:55:47+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1ttpnzs/if_your_withdrawal_rate_is_2_why_do_you_have_bonds/op8d3p1/", "content": "You're exactly right. And when I talk about one tranche of stocks vs. another... in practice, they really all just run together. I am nearly 100% VTI/VXUS (allocation between those two is currently suboptimal but irrelevant for this topic), outside of a couple SFH properties I wish I didn't own and outside of some leftover employer stock I'm gradually selling out of first to cover living expenses.\n My actual NW is $8.4M, and for simplicity, just say it's all stocks.\n My "logical net worth" is only $6.5M. The pie chart looks like 70% stock and 30% "discounted stock", which does the job of the bonds I'd really rather not own. The 30% pie slice is actually twice the physical size in reality, because I treat it like it could be chopped in half at any time.\n 30% of this logical $6.5M NW is about $2M. This $2M portion of my pie chart is implemented by $4M of actual underlying VTI. If the value of the underlying stocks falls, I still think of the "safe" discounted value of this portion of my portfolio as if it's $2M. It can be cut in half before my "logical net worth" feels the fact that (those) stocks have had a drawdown.\n 3% of my $6.5M logical NW is about $200k of annual spend. My portfolio is about as safe as one with $6.5M comprised of 70% stocks and 30% bonds, and I feel very comfortable drawing anything less than $200k from it forever. If stocks get chopped in half, my logical NW becomes 0.7*6.5*0.5 + 0.3*6.5 = $4.2M. This is the same as if I had had a true 70/30 allocation and lost half of the 70 and none of the 30, starting from $6.5M. $200k of spend on that $4.2M would be a momentary annual withdrawal rate of 4.7%, which, at the trough of a 50% stock haircut (similar to GFC or dot com bubble crashes), really isn't bad and does not bother me. Even during the GFC, while the lowest point of the drawdown in the S&P was like 57%, the market stayed below 50%-down-from-peak for precious little time.\n The upshot is that, during normal market conditions, the "30% bond allocation" (in the form of twice as many stocks) has the growth of a huge pile of stock, rather than a small pile of bonds. When stocks double, my logical NW increases the exact same amount. It doubles. My actual NW, while higher, isn't something I try to think about, but yes, it is MUCH higher today than if I had quit a couple years earlier with a "normal" 70/30 allocation with real bonds, instead of indulging in a couple years of one-more-year syndrome to let wealth build until I had enough "extra" that I could perform this mental gymnastic and leave my underlying holdings in 100% equities.\n Because I waited a couple years extra to retire after I had achieved my original FIRE number of 3% SWR (on my real physical NW) meeting my needs, I enjoy the growth of 1.3x that original FIRE number in stock exposure, with the spending power and safety of that original FIRE number as if it were allocated 30% to bonds. Had I retired earlier with the real 70/30 allocation, I would have only 0.7x that original FIRE number worth of stock exposure, and 0.3x that original FIRE number worth of bond exposure.\n Effectively, because of the couple years of one-more-yearing my career, I see 1.3/0.7, or 13/7ths the amount of portfolio growth that I would have had. I kept my spending in the original constraint, but I expect that, due to this extra growth, my situation over the coming several decades will be one of repeatedly discovering that I have more money than I expected to, and I hope and anticipate that I'll be able to reevaluate (adjust upward) spending power in the future as I realize I simply won't spend it all under the original spending plan from pre-retirement. If that comes to pass, then great! If not, it'll be still very OK. Much easier to plan some runway for schrödinger's hedonic creep than to allow none at all, much less dial it back in tight times.\n This is really all way too many words to say, I think planning a low SWR as a way to get away with a 100% stock allocation is a very good move. This mental gymnastic of treating one's logical NW as 1/1.3 of real NW has my actual SWR set at $200k on an actual $8.4M pad, which is about 2.4%. (My actual spending is closer to 100k, but I leave room for a future family.)" }, { "id": "t1_op5rrfs", "author": "/u/NetherIndy", "updated": "2026-06-01T17:00:24+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1ttpnzs/if_your_withdrawal_rate_is_2_why_do_you_have_bonds/op5rrfs/", "content": "There are financial decisions that are more 'let me sleep' psych than purely math-optimal. I paid off my 4%-rate mortgage early because... paid-off feels good man. I buy comprehensive insurance on cars that are under 5 years old, even though I have the cash to buy another car tomorrow and it's statistically better to just self-insure. Holding a roughly 80/20 portfolio is the same sort of small sub-optimization for better sleep." }, { "id": "t1_op680r4", "author": "/u/Alkemist101", "updated": "2026-06-01T18:14:10+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1ttpnzs/if_your_withdrawal_rate_is_2_why_do_you_have_bonds/op680r4/", "content": "I don't, I have mmf's.\n Depends where you're at in life and what improves your mental health and well-being." }, { "id": "t1_op6biqk", "author": "/u/Interesting_Shake403", "updated": "2026-06-01T18:34:15+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1ttpnzs/if_your_withdrawal_rate_is_2_why_do_you_have_bonds/op6biqk/", "content": "I’m not there yet, but agree with some of the responses here - if I need some of this money to live on, I’d rather not be selling at a loss. I’d have some in bonds to bridge that. More likely to have my bonds plus cash be 15% or so. Id rather that than 3 years in cash, which is a common approach. More like 6-12 months cash, remainder of that in bonds.\n I’ll say also, 2% is VERY low - keep in mind the study had you starting at 4%, but then inflation-adjusting annually so that at some point your holdings start winding down. It’s supposed to be sustainable for 30 years or so, not in perpetuity. 2% in a given year - even in the first year, is low." }, { "id": "t1_op6fblp", "author": "/u/Brave_Practice9236", "updated": "2026-06-01T18:56:26+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1ttpnzs/if_your_withdrawal_rate_is_2_why_do_you_have_bonds/op6fblp/", "content": "Very smart people stay in equities in heavy majority and forever. The fear of losing money is greater when you age, and have more. Hence bonds. Not logical. Imo." }, { "id": "t1_op7k6c1", "author": "/u/Bearsbanker", "updated": "2026-06-01T22:13:03+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1ttpnzs/if_your_withdrawal_rate_is_2_why_do_you_have_bonds/op7k6c1/", "content": "I live on about 2%, I have no bonds, want no bonds, will get no bonds" }, { "id": "t1_op9k6e3", "author": "/u/pdx_mom", "updated": "2026-06-02T05:40:51+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1ttpnzs/if_your_withdrawal_rate_is_2_why_do_you_have_bonds/op9k6e3/", "content": "Are you Sam I am?" }, { "id": "t1_op9t0yf", "author": "/u/SpecialistKoala9765", "updated": "2026-06-02T06:52:57+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1ttpnzs/if_your_withdrawal_rate_is_2_why_do_you_have_bonds/op9t0yf/", "content": "Bonds have historically been a hedge against stock markets. When stocks go down usually during bad economies people expect interest rate to drop And bond prices go up. It doesn’t always work that way as many people lose to inflation. I’m struggling with this traditional knowledge too. Part of it is psychology … holding bonds make you lose less market value when things are bad but limit your upside potential when market improves. Instead of holding bonds I hold savings and GIC with good yields instead.\n One thing you may want to consider is that some corporate bond pays higher interest rate and yield better, and some bonds pay inflation protected interests." }, { "id": "t1_opew1s1", "author": "/u/NefariousnessOdd862", "updated": "2026-06-02T23:16:41+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1ttpnzs/if_your_withdrawal_rate_is_2_why_do_you_have_bonds/opew1s1/", "content": "Why would you not with 2% or less withdrawal rate? You’ll get 4% in bonds these days so you have high stability and never have to touch your principal. Your question seems very odd to me since it doesn’t make sense…🤔" }, { "id": "t1_opfrks0", "author": "/u/whocaresreallythrow", "updated": "2026-06-03T02:14:53+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1ttpnzs/if_your_withdrawal_rate_is_2_why_do_you_have_bonds/opfrks0/", "content": "So for me it’s really simple. I won the game. Zero need to keep playing. Example:\n I earn 5.2% on a 30 year bond before tax. It’s taxed federally but not state. Tax rate 20% given how much is earnes in bond interest. After tax return 4.2% Withdraw rate 2%. Inflation 2.2%. That’s good for 30 years. If I’m late 50s. That puts me at late 80s with the same portfolio buying power as today.\n That’s a guaranteed legacy, or, if inflation jumps to 5% or the stock market goes down 90% as it did in 1929 and takes 25 years to get back to pre crash levels, I won’t give a fuck. In the plan we are still dying with far more than zero.\n And If I die, which you think about after cancer and as we age my spouse sure won’t know what to buy or what to sell in stocks and I don’t trust a slimy financial advisors or fiduciaries enough to hand them the reins.\n Plus, at a certain point you realize life doesn’t change with the marginal economic benefit vs the risk of sleepless nights.\n Put another way, Having a million and losing half fucks up most fire plans. Having a million and doubling it to two million is life changing for most fire folks. “Worth the risk”. - for some yes.\n Having 10 million and losing half makes you the tallest midget, Greg. Not worth the risk. Having 10 million and growing it to 20 million doesn’t incrementally move my life needle so little marginal benefit.\n Let’s continue this discussion when the market hits a normal correction of -10% or a bear market of -20%. And let’s also revisit when we get one of those -40% gully washers. It’s been a generation since the last one and EVERY generation gets their oh fuck stonks don’t just go up moment." }, { "id": "t1_op41ov1", "author": "/u/Past-Option2702", "updated": "2026-06-01T11:58:12+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1ttpnzs/if_your_withdrawal_rate_is_2_why_do_you_have_bonds/op41ov1/", "content": "Diversification is the only free lunch." }, { "id": "t1_op422xj", "author": "/u/Future_Measurement42", "updated": "2026-06-01T12:00:40+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1ttpnzs/if_your_withdrawal_rate_is_2_why_do_you_have_bonds/op422xj/", "content": "In this case it eats your lunch" }, { "id": "t1_op42wgb", "author": "/u/Past-Option2702", "updated": "2026-06-01T12:05:46+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1ttpnzs/if_your_withdrawal_rate_is_2_why_do_you_have_bonds/op42wgb/", "content": "Report back in 10 years. Were you able to stay off the sell button?" }, { "id": "t1_op67boz", "author": "/u/Ancient-Swordfish292", "updated": "2026-06-01T18:10:19+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1ttpnzs/if_your_withdrawal_rate_is_2_why_do_you_have_bonds/op67boz/", "content": "I've only bought since I started investing more than 10 years ago." }, { "id": "t1_op67tir", "author": "/u/Past-Option2702", "updated": "2026-06-01T18:13:04+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1ttpnzs/if_your_withdrawal_rate_is_2_why_do_you_have_bonds/op67tir/", "content": "So you haven’t felt a real bear market yet." }, { "id": "t1_op7fvet", "author": "/u/Ancient-Swordfish292", "updated": "2026-06-01T21:50:56+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1ttpnzs/if_your_withdrawal_rate_is_2_why_do_you_have_bonds/op7fvet/", "content": "If saying so helps you satisfy your need to feel superior, then yes." }, { "id": "t1_op7phsv", "author": "/u/Past-Option2702", "updated": "2026-06-01T22:41:35+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1ttpnzs/if_your_withdrawal_rate_is_2_why_do_you_have_bonds/op7phsv/", "content": "Huh?\n I’m just older. Calm down." }, { "id": "t1_op7qvck", "author": "/u/Ancient-Swordfish292", "updated": "2026-06-01T22:49:03+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1ttpnzs/if_your_withdrawal_rate_is_2_why_do_you_have_bonds/op7qvck/", "content": "I think I am in the presence of a true investor here. Not some bright eyed neophyte who holds too much in equities because they don't understand their own risk tolerance, but a real, true, downturn hardened investor." }, { "id": "t1_op7ra6s", "author": "/u/Past-Option2702", "updated": "2026-06-01T22:51:18+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1ttpnzs/if_your_withdrawal_rate_is_2_why_do_you_have_bonds/op7ra6s/", "content": "Sorry your feelings were hurt.\n And.. you’re right." }, { "id": "t1_op7rru7", "author": "/u/Ancient-Swordfish292", "updated": "2026-06-01T22:53:57+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1ttpnzs/if_your_withdrawal_rate_is_2_why_do_you_have_bonds/op7rru7/", "content": "You misunderstand. I am acknowledging that I'm talking with someone who has superior knowledge and experience in these matters. I'm going to go out and put at least 25% of my assets in an intermediate duration nominal bond fund so that I keep my neophyte fingers off the sell button during the upcoming real downturn." }, { "id": "t1_op7t9hf", "author": "/u/Ancient-Swordfish292", "updated": "2026-06-01T23:02:08+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1ttpnzs/if_your_withdrawal_rate_is_2_why_do_you_have_bonds/op7t9hf/", "content": "And.. you’re right.\n This one got me to laugh.\n I should add that it's not simply a historical accident that bonds were good diversifiers for equities during much of the time the three fund portfolio strategy was popular due to rates being high and falling after the Volker shock until around 2019.\n On the contrary, it is simply true that bonds are for safety and BND/VBTLX is good enough.\n EDIT: Additionally, volatility is an appropriate definition of risk." }, { "id": "t1_op5xasg", "author": "/u/Green_Bluebird5804", "updated": "2026-06-01T17:24:38+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1ttpnzs/if_your_withdrawal_rate_is_2_why_do_you_have_bonds/op5xasg/", "content": "I don't own a single bond - VOO to me is as conservative/safety net as I get" }, { "id": "t1_op69lpp", "author": "/u/Sufficient_Mud_3179", "updated": "2026-06-01T18:23:13+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1ttpnzs/if_your_withdrawal_rate_is_2_why_do_you_have_bonds/op69lpp/", "content": "You don't,\n But I an not a fire person, I am fire but use dividends,\n I never spend a penny of principle and plan to leave it all to family.\n Depending on the amount of money I would do something like keep 60+ percent in Growth that works for you and live off cash generated by the 40%.\n And when you kids inherent it they can either continue and retire or convert back to Growth" }, { "id": "t1_opc04m3", "author": "/u/hdfire21", "updated": "2026-06-02T15:18:06+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1ttpnzs/if_your_withdrawal_rate_is_2_why_do_you_have_bonds/opc04m3/", "content": "Why does any individual have bonds? They're really pretty much for institutions now.\n Lack of knowledge?\n Edit: Day or swing trading? But I think OP meant long term holds. I could see buying a muni bond tax free etf or something right now, with the plan to sell in a few years when rates are lower, collect the coupon for now.\n But what individual bought bonds at like 1-3%, rather than using a money market or brokered cd or something.... You would basically have to think rates would go negative." }, { "id": "t1_op4ngyi", "author": "/u/Next_Permission3353", "updated": "2026-06-01T13:57:04+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1ttpnzs/if_your_withdrawal_rate_is_2_why_do_you_have_bonds/op4ngyi/", "content": "Bonds are cringe. Full send 100% equities like Ben Felix says. Real men don't use lube" } ] }, { "source": "r/Fire hot", "id": "t3_1tu4t3y", "title": "Freedom, Learning and Grounding", "author": "/u/csmikkels", "updated": "2026-06-01T20:30:58+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu4t3y/freedom_learning_and_grounding/", "content": "Sharing an interesting reflection from the Two Sides of FI podcast. The hosts both retired early, and one of them talked about the key pillars he discovered were essential for maintaining balance and fulfillment in early retirement.\n His framework centers on three areas:\n Autonomy – the freedom to choose how to spend each day.\n Stimulation – continuing to seek new experiences, travel, learning, creativity, and personal growth.\n Anchoring – maintaining routines, community, exercise, meaningful projects, and other structures that provide purpose and stability.\n I thought it was a useful reminder and interesting way to think about the balance across these pillars. Especially seeing a lot of conversations that this comes easy to some and is harder to others. Intentionally building a life that remains engaging, healthy, and grounded is our collective goal.\n submitted by /u/csmikkels\n [link] [comments]", "contentHtml": "

Sharing an interesting reflection from the Two Sides of FI podcast. The hosts both retired early, and one of them talked about the key pillars he discovered were essential for maintaining balance and fulfillment in early retirement.

His framework centers on three areas:

Autonomy – the freedom to choose how to spend each day.

Stimulation – continuing to seek new experiences, travel, learning, creativity, and personal growth.

Anchoring – maintaining routines, community, exercise, meaningful projects, and other structures that provide purpose and stability.

I thought it was a useful reminder and interesting way to think about the balance across these pillars. Especially seeing a lot of conversations that this comes easy to some and is harder to others. Intentionally building a life that remains engaging, healthy, and grounded is our collective goal.

submitted by /u/csmikkels
[link] [comments]", "comments": [ { "id": "t1_op70b4j", "author": "/u/Cautious_Internal425", "updated": "2026-06-01T20:36:50+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu4t3y/freedom_learning_and_grounding/op70b4j/", "content": "the anchoring part really hits me because i think people underestimate how much structure from work actually keeps you sane. like when i was between jobs for few months i thought freedom would be amazing but ended up just drifting around without any real purpose\n that balance between having complete autonomy but also enough routine to feel grounded seems tricky to nail down. probably takes some experimenting to figure out what works for each person" }, { "id": "t1_op72mt5", "author": "/u/DistributionEven9393", "updated": "2026-06-01T20:47:28+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu4t3y/freedom_learning_and_grounding/op72mt5/", "content": "Good perspective. This might be just as valuable to consider before FIRE - ideally having autonomy, stimulation, and anchoring are fundamental to incorporate into a day-to-day routine, even while working." }, { "id": "t1_op7f35c", "author": "/u/csmikkels", "updated": "2026-06-01T21:47:00+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu4t3y/freedom_learning_and_grounding/op7f35c/", "content": "Agree the lessons are valuable regardless of finances or retirement. I know the focus on autonomy when working is where a lot of us get stuck, but there’s a lot outside of work that this covers." }, { "id": "t1_op7hdvz", "author": "/u/Business-Donkey-7234", "updated": "2026-06-01T21:58:33+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu4t3y/freedom_learning_and_grounding/op7hdvz/", "content": "One thing I've noticed is that people often treat FIRE as a financial goal when it's really a lifestyle design question.\n The money solves the "can I?" problem.\n Autonomy, stimulation, and anchoring solve the "now what?" problem.\n Both matter, but the second part is probably harder to figure out." }, { "id": "t1_op8yocv", "author": "/u/chance909", "updated": "2026-06-02T03:06:57+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu4t3y/freedom_learning_and_grounding/op8yocv/", "content": "Great perspective on it. I Fired in 2024, and balancing these 3 has been very fluid throughout the last 2 years.\n I have so much Autonomy! but I'm un-anchored and understimulated, let me join this group or start this project!\n Oh wow this new project gives me so much personal growth and stimulation, and this community group anchors me so well! But now I have more responsibilities and demands on my time that I want and I've already committed away my freedom to choose how i spend my day.\n None of these are bad places to find yourself, but finding the right balance where you do enough to stay involved and growing but still free and low-stress is always going to be a pendulum that swings back and forth." }, { "id": "t1_op728g9", "author": "/u/Effective-Money-4037", "updated": "2026-06-01T20:45:39+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu4t3y/freedom_learning_and_grounding/op728g9/", "content": "Balance is always important even when working, too many people make their career their lives. From the beginning I never took my job very seriously. It just didn't matter to me and that makes early retirement that much easier. Stoicism helps too! American culture is seriously messed up when it comes to priorities sometimes." } ] }, { "source": "r/Fire hot", "id": "t3_1tu30j1", "title": "Re-Thinking Retirement Bond Allocation", "author": "/u/Witty-Drama-3187", "updated": "2026-06-01T19:29:36+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu30j1/rethinking_retirement_bond_allocation/", "content": "Genuinely looking to learn here, so appreciate any feedback or thoughts.\n Common wisdom is once in active retirement you are holding between 30% (aggressive portfolio) or up to 75% (conservative portfolio) of your total holdings in bonds or bond funds.\n Been re-thinking this a bit. The bonds are there to protect against downside risk. History shows that dramatic market downturns tend to correct themselves somewhere between 4-6 years after the decline begins.\n As an alternative to just holding a fixed % in bonds, what if I set aside 6 years of living expenses (based on expected withdrawal rate) in a liquid cash account such as an HYSA, or Money Market. Then, I keep the balance of the portfolio in 100% equities (index funds).\n Based on my overall portfolio and expected withdrawal rate over 6 years, the cash savings account would amount to roughly 20-25% of my total portfolio value.\n The cash account would be there only to be withdrawn during a market downturn. I would withdraw from the equity/mutual fund portion in a standard year. The goal here being to not have to withdraw from my equity portion in a down market.\n I'm interested in learning more about potential tax implications of this setup, and whether there is any advantage to this type of arragement vs. just holding that portion of the portfolio in a traditional bond fund like BND.\n Thanks!\n submitted by /u/Witty-Drama-3187\n [link] [comments]", "contentHtml": "

Genuinely looking to learn here, so appreciate any feedback or thoughts.

Common wisdom is once in active retirement you are holding between 30% (aggressive portfolio) or up to 75% (conservative portfolio) of your total holdings in bonds or bond funds.

Been re-thinking this a bit. The bonds are there to protect against downside risk. History shows that dramatic market downturns tend to correct themselves somewhere between 4-6 years after the decline begins.

As an alternative to just holding a fixed % in bonds, what if I set aside 6 years of living expenses (based on expected withdrawal rate) in a liquid cash account such as an HYSA, or Money Market. Then, I keep the balance of the portfolio in 100% equities (index funds).

Based on my overall portfolio and expected withdrawal rate over 6 years, the cash savings account would amount to roughly 20-25% of my total portfolio value.

The cash account would be there only to be withdrawn during a market downturn. I would withdraw from the equity/mutual fund portion in a standard year. The goal here being to not have to withdraw from my equity portion in a down market.

I'm interested in learning more about potential tax implications of this setup, and whether there is any advantage to this type of arragement vs. just holding that portion of the portfolio in a traditional bond fund like BND.

Thanks!

submitted by /u/Witty-Drama-3187
[link] [comments]", "comments": [ { "id": "t1_op6nepn", "author": "/u/ChipmunkRemarkable20", "updated": "2026-06-01T19:38:24+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu30j1/rethinking_retirement_bond_allocation/op6nepn/", "content": "You normally get a rough FIRE number using x25 your annual expenses. If you keep 6 years of your portfolio in cash, you have 6/25≈25% in cash, so not so different than a 75/25 stocks/bonds, but worse. Why so much in cash and not in bonds?\n But if you mean doing x25 times expenses in stocks + 6 years cash = that's retiring with x31 times your expenses, so a 3.2 withdrawal rate. If you have such a conservative rate, you could arguably have it all in stocks or at least a lot less in cash..." }, { "id": "t1_op6qlq8", "author": "/u/Witty-Drama-3187", "updated": "2026-06-01T19:52:52+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu30j1/rethinking_retirement_bond_allocation/op6qlq8/", "content": ""Why so much in cash and not bonds? ". That's really what I'm trying to wrap my head around better. The thought experiment here was primarily in the event of a market downturn. In that scenario, I'm drawing from the cash account instead of the equity/investment portion. I truthfully don't know if that is more advantagious vs. just keeping the same % in bonds as you suggest." }, { "id": "t1_op726qk", "author": "/u/ChipmunkRemarkable20", "updated": "2026-06-01T20:45:26+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu30j1/rethinking_retirement_bond_allocation/op726qk/", "content": "Bonds is better to have as your 75/25. In a downturn, you sell bonds instead of stocks. Bonds earn more than cash over time, and they often (not always) go up when stocks crash, so less overall portfolio volatility than a comparable stocks/cash. You definitely need some extra cash at hand to cover ongoing expenses -- people usually have about 6 months to 1 year" }, { "id": "t1_op73gwa", "author": "/u/Witty-Drama-3187", "updated": "2026-06-01T20:51:17+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu30j1/rethinking_retirement_bond_allocation/op73gwa/", "content": "Thank you. So the general wisdom is that in a down market, you are withdrawing from the bond portion of the portfolio, correct? Essentially resulting in a form of re-balancing?\n Follow up question. Do you have any thoughts on holding actual laddered bonds vs. a bond index fund like BND? I'm learning that actual bonds in a ladder are likely advisable vs the fund." }, { "id": "t1_opalvfz", "author": "/u/ChipmunkRemarkable20", "updated": "2026-06-02T10:52:34+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu30j1/rethinking_retirement_bond_allocation/opalvfz/", "content": "Yes, a form of rebalancing. You're drawing down from the asset that held up better, which brings your allocation back toward target.\n Ladders give you more control and avoid the interest rate risk others are mentioning -- a bond fund can drop in value, whereas holding a bond to maturity you get your principal back. The downside are that it requires more manual effort and has less diversification (both across bond types but also across geographies). Think both approaches are defensible.\n Also, on the bonds topic also worth looking into 'bond tent' strategy, which is a popular approach to address sequence-of-returns risk (SORR)." }, { "id": "t1_op9mn4z", "author": "/u/Jaamun100", "updated": "2026-06-02T06:00:34+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu30j1/rethinking_retirement_bond_allocation/op9mn4z/", "content": "I think this wisdom may not hold up when interest rates are still historically low, and the debt situation means they can’t really get much higher like they once did pre 2000. I think keeping the 25% in inflation-protected cash like tips, ibonds, hysa, Sgov along the lines of OP, is a much better idea to protect against interest rate risk. The other 75% should probably include equities and gold like GDE." }, { "id": "t1_op6m3lz", "author": "/u/Kirk57", "updated": "2026-06-01T19:32:19+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu30j1/rethinking_retirement_bond_allocation/op6m3lz/", "content": "Use FICALC.APP to try out that theory." }, { "id": "t1_op6n9qj", "author": "/u/Alarming-Barber-4152", "updated": "2026-06-01T19:37:45+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu30j1/rethinking_retirement_bond_allocation/op6n9qj/", "content": "Actually tried running similar scenarios on that calculator few months back when I was thinking about early retirement planning. The cash cushion approach can work pretty well in simulations, especially if you're flexible with your withdrawal timing\n One thing I noticed though - keeping 6 years in cash means you're missing out on potential bond gains during those good years. Bonds might not be exciting but they usually do better than cash over longer periods. Also the tax situation gets bit tricky because you'll be constantly rebalancing that cash buffer as you use it during downturns\n I ended up going with something like 60/30/10 split (stocks/bonds/cash) instead of the full cash cushion approach. Gives me some downside protection but still keeps most money working harder than just sitting in HYSA. Though your way definitely makes the math simpler when planning withdrawals" }, { "id": "t1_op6o3es", "author": "/u/burner12077", "updated": "2026-06-01T19:41:34+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu30j1/rethinking_retirement_bond_allocation/op6o3es/", "content": "Why not do one year in HYSA and the rest in a 2 year bond ladder? You could spread the bonds so you have a handfull maturing every quarter or something." }, { "id": "t1_op6rxz4", "author": "/u/Witty-Drama-3187", "updated": "2026-06-01T19:58:54+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu30j1/rethinking_retirement_bond_allocation/op6rxz4/", "content": "I like your 60/30/10 split.\n How do you manage withdrawals and re-balancing at that split? Anything related to market performance or do you just withdraw equally from all portions when you need cash to keep your desired allocations the same?" }, { "id": "t1_op6nt60", "author": "/u/fenton7", "updated": "2026-06-01T19:40:17+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu30j1/rethinking_retirement_bond_allocation/op6nt60/", "content": "The market can stay flat relative to inflation for much longer periods than six years. During the Great Depression it took roughly 25 years, 1929 to 1954, before the market regained its prior level. 1966 to 1982 and 2000 to 2013 are more recent examples. The advantage, historically, to having a mix of stocks and bonds is that bonds tend to perform inverse to stocks in severe downturns and the blend doesn't perform much worse than stocks on average. When planning for a 30 or 40 year retirement it's not the little dips and recoveries that are worrisome. It is the possibility of a protracted secular bear market." }, { "id": "t1_op7a406", "author": "/u/sxah", "updated": "2026-06-01T21:22:34+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu30j1/rethinking_retirement_bond_allocation/op7a406/", "content": "It only took 6-7 years to recover during the Great Depression if you account for dividends and deflation.\n Even less with international diversification." }, { "id": "t1_op7meu1", "author": "/u/fenton7", "updated": "2026-06-01T22:24:57+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu30j1/rethinking_retirement_bond_allocation/op7meu1/", "content": "But right as OP's 6-7 years of cash buffer runs out and they start pulling from stocks again, another ~50% market drop hits (1937–38). So at that point half their stock portion gets wiped out as they are drawing from it and they have very hard decisions to make. And the "giant cash buffer" fares poorly in a lot of other scenarios. Better just to stick with 60/40 or 50/50 stocks and high quality mid-term bonds which performs well in nearly all bad historical scenarios." }, { "id": "t1_opeu1u5", "author": "/u/DoorFrame", "updated": "2026-06-02T23:05:54+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu30j1/rethinking_retirement_bond_allocation/opeu1u5/", "content": "After 6-7 years OP would run through his bonds too, though." }, { "id": "t1_op6p0h3", "author": "/u/ShadowverseMatt", "updated": "2026-06-01T19:45:43+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu30j1/rethinking_retirement_bond_allocation/op6p0h3/", "content": "Bond funds are meh and lose value when rates rise.\n The safety from bonds comes from holding actual individual bonds and laddering them to provide for cashflow needs- if the issuer doesn’t default, you will not lose money even if rates rise. You don’t care about the bond resale market because you will hold the bond until it matures and you get your principal back after all the coupon payments.\n Other fixed income investments like CDs also work. But bond funds like BND are far more volatile and subject to market fluctuations than many people realize." }, { "id": "t1_op6psu0", "author": "/u/Witty-Drama-3187", "updated": "2026-06-01T19:49:13+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu30j1/rethinking_retirement_bond_allocation/op6psu0/", "content": "Yeah I think I need to do more research and understand bond ladders better. Thanks for the thoughts." }, { "id": "t1_op6ut66", "author": "/u/tomatillo_teratoma", "updated": "2026-06-01T20:11:57+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu30j1/rethinking_retirement_bond_allocation/op6ut66/", "content": "I agree about bond funds. I don't see a point... all the risk, and none of the reward of being invested in indexes.\n I've recently been looking at target date bond funds. You buy a specific year, it matures/pays out in Dec of that year. Dividends are paid along the way. They buy/hold bonds with maturities for that year.\n I currently have a muni bond ladder going out ten years. It was a bitch to build. It took a lot of work initially when I wasn't all that familiar with bonds. For someone starting a bond ladder, I think I'd recommend target date bond ETFs ... less to learn at the outset. As the ETFs mature, they could consider investing directly in bonds.. if they feel they know enough or just want to give it a try." }, { "id": "t1_op6r5sk", "author": "/u/Abject_Egg_194", "updated": "2026-06-01T19:55:22+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu30j1/rethinking_retirement_bond_allocation/op6r5sk/", "content": "What you're really saying is that you want reduced duration risk on the fixed income portion of your portfolio. T Bills literally are bonds.\n Bond interest and "capital gains" are taxed like ordinary income. Same thing for interest income. There are no tax implications of switching between the two.\n It's been about 20 years since the Great Recession and the years since then have been fairly low interest rate years (until recently). This has made bonds seem really bad. But the math with bonds is partially based on the idea that when stocks do poorly, bonds do well. In theory, your long-dated bonds will greatly increase in value during a big market drop, due to the flight to safety. But again, you haven't actually seen this happen in ~20 years." }, { "id": "t1_op6ta3g", "author": "/u/shotparrot", "updated": "2026-06-01T20:05:00+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu30j1/rethinking_retirement_bond_allocation/op6ta3g/", "content": "You just described the “bucket” strategy ;)\n And yes good idea. However 6 years cash is a bit much. 2 should be plenty.\n Also look at 3 bucket strategy." }, { "id": "t1_op6n7ct", "author": "/u/Fanman2400", "updated": "2026-06-01T19:37:26+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu30j1/rethinking_retirement_bond_allocation/op6n7ct/", "content": "Look up bucket strategy" }, { "id": "t1_op6rav9", "author": "/u/yottabit42", "updated": "2026-06-01T19:56:01+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu30j1/rethinking_retirement_bond_allocation/op6rav9/", "content": "This is what I do, but in ultra short, short, and intermediate term bonds. Actual cash, including in a savings account, is exceedingly unlikely to outperform the bonds I listed. Don't forget to increase the bond amount by inflation every year if dividends don't keep up." }, { "id": "t1_op7b1cr", "author": "/u/aunsafe2015", "updated": "2026-06-01T21:27:01+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu30j1/rethinking_retirement_bond_allocation/op7b1cr/", "content": "Do your expenditures come from ultra short, and you just replenish all 3 buckets as you draw down ultra short? Do you use it essentially as a bond ladder, but it's just bond funds instead of individual bonds?" }, { "id": "t1_op7ccsm", "author": "/u/yottabit42", "updated": "2026-06-01T21:33:25+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu30j1/rethinking_retirement_bond_allocation/op7ccsm/", "content": "I am not using them yet, but my plan is to pull from whichever position is doing the best YTD. I might extend that window to 2 years or even 3 years. That requires some research, but a larger window seems logical. And then do the regular rebalance at the end of the year." }, { "id": "t1_op7144t", "author": "/u/StrawberriKiwi22", "updated": "2026-06-01T20:40:32+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu30j1/rethinking_retirement_bond_allocation/op7144t/", "content": "I also keep a certain number of “years” of bonds now that I am RE. Your plan is a valid one. I don’t have a bond fund, it’s actual individual bonds in a bond ladder. The thing I like about the bond ladder compared to keeping it all in a HYSA is that the yield is fixed. If I hold the bond to maturity, I know exactly the return I will be getting on it. HYSA can fluctuate over time, and there have been very recent times just a few years ago when HYSA’s were giving close to 0% interest.\n In my Schwab accounts, I can find bonds by just browsing under “trade”, and choose bonds (or CDs). I can see a chart at a glance that has the best yields for all different categories of bonds, and different lengths. It’s a bit more hands on than a buy-it-and-forget-it bond fund, and I only just learned how to do it a few years ago after RE, but now that I have built the ladder, I can just hold the bonds until they mature. No additional work." }, { "id": "t1_op8lwlr", "author": "/u/Witty-Drama-3187", "updated": "2026-06-02T01:48:12+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu30j1/rethinking_retirement_bond_allocation/op8lwlr/", "content": "Thanks for the feedback, it’s helpful.\n With the ladder you are referring to, can you withdraw funds at any time? Are you pulling living expenses out of the ladder? Or always waiting until they mature?" }, { "id": "t1_opb0ic5", "author": "/u/StrawberriKiwi22", "updated": "2026-06-02T12:24:26+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu30j1/rethinking_retirement_bond_allocation/opb0ic5/", "content": "You can technically sell a bond early, but then the earnings might be different from what you previously locked in. The general wisdom regarding a ladder is that you wait for maturity, and then if the market is low, you use that money for living expenses. If the market is high, you reinvest the bond proceeds into a new bond to extend your ladder, and sell some of your equities to pay your daily expenses.\n I have bonds (or CDs) maturing about 3 times per year, so I never feel the need to sell early. Plus the market is almost always at an all-time-high these days, so I have been selling equities to complete my ladder (just got it finally completed this spring after about 3 years of gradually selling equities in a brokerage, trying to keep my capital gains minimized to qualify for ACA subsidies)." }, { "id": "t1_op6t482", "author": "/u/tomatillo_teratoma", "updated": "2026-06-01T20:04:14+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu30j1/rethinking_retirement_bond_allocation/op6t482/", "content": "I think you're right on to think of bonds/cash as "years" rather than percentage.\n The purpose of your bonds/cash is to float you through a recession, and yes... most recessions have been 4-6 years.\n Interest rates in high yield savings accounts, or money markets will likely tank if there's a recession. They may be close to zero, while bonds (purchased directly) keep the interest rate they were bought at. T-bills are bonds, they will keep their initial interest rate.\n You could set up a ladder of t-bills/bonds, with some maturing every year for the next six years. If it's not a recession, roll that money back into t-bills or other bonds once something matures.\n I am not a fan of most bond funds, because they can and have lost significant when there's a recession. Buy the bonds directly or get a target date bond fund that matures a specific year, and build a ladder.\n I currently have ten years of expenses in municipal bonds purchased directly, held at Fidelity-- no funds. Every couple months, one matures, and I buy more bonds for future dates. I'm currently considering BulletShares ETF suite because it's a little easier than searching/buying bonds on my own.\n The interest on munis is not taxable, but still counts toward your MAGI for health insurance." }, { "id": "t1_op6tyck", "author": "/u/Witty-Drama-3187", "updated": "2026-06-01T20:08:03+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu30j1/rethinking_retirement_bond_allocation/op6tyck/", "content": "Thanks for this detailed answer. It’s very helpful.\n Overall, I’m learning that I need to understand my theoretical bond allocation better. I had this idea that the bond portion of my portfolio was just going to be dumped in something like BND. I’m learning that is probably not the advisable course, and I need do some research on ladders." }, { "id": "t1_op6vusp", "author": "/u/tomatillo_teratoma", "updated": "2026-06-01T20:16:40+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu30j1/rethinking_retirement_bond_allocation/op6vusp/", "content": "I see a huge gap between owning individual bonds and bond funds.\n A lot of the FIRE literature and people talk about bond funds as if they're equal to bonds.... and they really aren't. Yes it's easy to dump your $$ in BND... but in this case, easy isn't best." }, { "id": "t1_op7m6qv", "author": "/u/ga2500ev", "updated": "2026-06-01T22:23:45+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu30j1/rethinking_retirement_bond_allocation/op7m6qv/", "content": "The gap is a complexity gap. Bond funds are simplicity. For most investors it doesn't matter that they are not the right fit. They only have a single step in a portfolio: buy into the fund and hold.\n Every other discussion devolves into a maze of complexity of ladders and target dates and bond lengths, and the like. In a 3 bucket type strategy it simply doesn't match up with the simplicity of equities (VT/VOO) or cash (MM/HYSA).\n Until there is an established 1,2,3 step strategy to take 30% of a portfolio and create a bond bucket with it, folks will keep dumping into bonds funds.\n does anyone have such a strategy?\n This comment below illustrates the complexity gap:"What percentage if your liquid nw is in munis? Did you consider ishares ibonds fixed termination bond funds instead of individual munis?"\n ga2500ev" }, { "id": "t1_op7qpnj", "author": "/u/tomatillo_teratoma", "updated": "2026-06-01T22:48:11+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu30j1/rethinking_retirement_bond_allocation/op7qpnj/", "content": "Yeah... I get it. I actually hate finance. I have to force myself to check on my portfolio. I hated learning things like ETF and index fund.\n BUT\n I hate it a lot less than working a job.\n A bond ladder doesn't have to be complex. If you want it to sustain you through a six year recession, buy six BulletShares ETF bond funds.... one for each year." }, { "id": "t1_op7bixy", "author": "/u/aunsafe2015", "updated": "2026-06-01T21:29:22+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu30j1/rethinking_retirement_bond_allocation/op7bixy/", "content": "What percentage if your liquid nw is in munis? Did you consider ishares ibonds fixed termination bond funds instead of individual munis?" }, { "id": "t1_op7rgdp", "author": "/u/tomatillo_teratoma", "updated": "2026-06-01T22:52:13+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu30j1/rethinking_retirement_bond_allocation/op7rgdp/", "content": "I have ten years of expenses in a ten year muni bond ladder. That is about 20-25% or my portfolio-- I really think in "years of expenses" instead of percentage.\n I'm starting to consider the ishares, yearly, termination date funds. I just found out about them last month. I've got a bond maturing in June... so I might try one. They do charge a fee... but I suspect they have access to better bonds than I do. What do you think?" }, { "id": "t1_op7so1e", "author": "/u/aunsafe2015", "updated": "2026-06-01T22:58:52+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu30j1/rethinking_retirement_bond_allocation/op7so1e/", "content": "Currently I just have a 15% allocation to VTEB, but I've thought about doing what you're doing and thinking about it as "years of expenses" instead of a %, and if I did that, I would be tempted to go with the iShares iBonds ladder instead of an individual muni ladder. A 0.18% expense ratio is rather high, but the 10-year ladder right now would include 10,453 bonds in it. I'm no muni expert, but that just seems like a major diversification benefit over anything I could build myself.\n I guess the main downside of the iShares ladder (other than expense ratio) is that you couldn't really select a specific state to avoid state income tax. But back to diversification... I'm not really sure I'd feel comfortable having 10-years worth of expenses (or 20+% of my portfolio) in a small handful of bonds all from the same state.\n Do you ever feel uncomfortable about having 20-25% of your portfolio in munis? My portfolio is 90% taxable, so I've always had a decent allocation to munis, but for some reason I have in my head that Bogleheads and other conservative investment philosophies generally recommend capping muni holdings at like 10-15%, although googling it right now, I can't really find any confirmation of that. But anyways, I've always kept my muni allocation in the 10-15% range because of that." }, { "id": "t1_op7y6tu", "author": "/u/tomatillo_teratoma", "updated": "2026-06-01T23:29:19+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu30j1/rethinking_retirement_bond_allocation/op7y6tu/", "content": "I'm not uncomfortable having a large percentage of my portfolio in munis... kind of the opposite. I feel like the biggest downside of munis is that they are too conservative and don't return much. I can live with the low returns for the secuirty bonds provide me.\n Limiting muni bonds to my state to save on state tax seems like it would make the pool of available munis too small... even though I live in a big state. To maintain a bond ladder, you already have to limit your bonds by maturity year. I also limit to non-callable and investment grade.... so if I limited to one state...I wouldn't have a lot of choices.\n It seems like the expense ratio of ishares bond funds would be worth it for the diversification. It's quite rare SO FAR to have a muni bond default. There have been like two defaults in the past five years, and they were low rated bonds to begin with. But I sort of feel like we're in unprecedented times here in the US.\n I also suspect managers of ishares bond funds have access to a better selection of muni bonds than consumers, maybe they are first in line because they have some kind of program set up to notify them when good bonds become available ??? Dunno about this, but I do know that different brokerages have access to different sets of bonds. I have Chase, Fidelity and Vanguard. I'vwe compared their available bonds and Fido has the best/most bonds. Not sure why that is." }, { "id": "t1_op77pw3", "author": "/u/Animag771", "updated": "2026-06-01T21:11:09+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu30j1/rethinking_retirement_bond_allocation/op77pw3/", "content": "I prefer a mix of uncorrelated assets which do well during different economic regimes. Bonds are nice to have in addition to stocks but those two alone don't work in every market environment. Sometimes they both go down simultaneously. That's why I hold stocks, bonds, gold, and managed futures. Something is always working." }, { "id": "t1_op7ikxk", "author": "/u/Yer-Not-Gonna-Like", "updated": "2026-06-01T22:04:43+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu30j1/rethinking_retirement_bond_allocation/op7ikxk/", "content": "I think some of the comments on bond funds are grasping one effect and ignoring the other.\n If you build a bond ladder, it’s true that you won’t experience a loss in value if rates rise (well, you would if you sold the bond, but…..). But you also will be stuck in that lower rate of the bonds you have in a market that is now paying more.\n Conversely, a bond fund loses value specifically because it is selling low interest bonds and buying higher interest bonds. The fund takes a hit in value but will pay higher rates in the higher yield environment." }, { "id": "t1_op8kbsb", "author": "/u/vegienomnomking", "updated": "2026-06-02T01:38:40+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu30j1/rethinking_retirement_bond_allocation/op8kbsb/", "content": "Hysa/Money market = short term bonds.\n They are pretty much the same thing.\n Do you think interest rate will stay up before you die? If so, hysa/money market isn't a bad idea." }, { "id": "t1_op9t99r", "author": "/u/Tachuela987", "updated": "2026-06-02T06:54:51+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu30j1/rethinking_retirement_bond_allocation/op9t99r/", "content": "You’re describing ALM. Asset Liability Matching. You will want the duration of the portfolio to match the duration of your commitments/cash flow need." }, { "id": "t1_opapgxj", "author": "/u/therealjerseytom", "updated": "2026-06-02T11:17:10+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu30j1/rethinking_retirement_bond_allocation/opapgxj/", "content": "The goal here being to not have to withdraw from my equity portion in a down market.\n That is indeed the goal! And I agree with the approach of having your defensive position sized in dollars/years-of-expenses rather than an arbitrary percentage.\n With that said, all investments have risks - including cash. All investments have strengths and weaknesses.\n The upsides of cash are immediate liquidity, and perfect downside protection in nominal terms. The risk of cash is that you can get crushed, in real terms, by inflation. Periods of high inflation are totally a thing.\n Of your 4-6 year buffer, it makes sense for cash to be a small part of it, but not all of it.\n Maybe you also have TIPS, which are designed specifically to hedge inflation. Maybe you have some long Treasury bonds (TLT as an ETF, for example) to hedge a flight-to-safety scenario. Maybe you have some commodities (DBC) or managed futures (DBMF) which did well in a 2022 scenario where both stocks and bonds fell together.\n I think you're coming at this with the right mindset, it's just a question of knowing all the different tools in the toolbox and what their strengths and weaknesses are." }, { "id": "t1_opbb4os", "author": "/u/Witty-Drama-3187", "updated": "2026-06-02T13:20:52+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu30j1/rethinking_retirement_bond_allocation/opbb4os/", "content": "Thanks. That’s exactly what I’ve taken out of this. The idea is sound, I just have to understand and research the actual set up a bit more. This could include bond ladders, tips, futures, etc.\n Appreciate the feedback" }, { "id": "t1_opbh3pb", "author": "/u/Vicuna00", "updated": "2026-06-02T13:50:22+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu30j1/rethinking_retirement_bond_allocation/opbh3pb/", "content": "6 years of cash is a big drag on the portfolio.\n also just keeping cash doesn't give you the opportunity to rebalance when stocks are low.\n https://blog.iese.edu/jestrada/files/2019/07/BucketApproach.pdf\n I'm in your camp of being 100% equities. i'm gonna throw 10% into bonds for my first few years of retirement and it's kinda making me cringe. but my wife wants it :/\n I'd rather just be 100% equities and withdraw <3% for my first 5-10 years of retirement. I know that's not possible for some people - or it might take an extra 5+ years of work. I'm not recommending it. just telling you where I'm at." }, { "id": "t1_opbl7gl", "author": "/u/Witty-Drama-3187", "updated": "2026-06-02T14:10:02+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu30j1/rethinking_retirement_bond_allocation/opbl7gl/", "content": "True about not being able to rebalance. The counterpoint regarding this theoretical portfolio is I would have a higher overall equity balance as compared to if I was holding bonds. It’s sort of a wash.\n Your plan about a lower withdrawal rate and staying in 100% equity has been brought up by a few other people. It’s a valid theory, just takes a certain mindset surrounding risk.\n Ultimately, what I’ve come around to is I don’t think I’ll be holding six years worth of cash in a HYSA. I’ll be holding the equivalent in some combination of laddered bonds, TIPS, and some portion cash. it will end up be being something like a 70 equity/20 bond/10 cash setup" }, { "id": "t1_opcqvot", "author": "/u/laurenthu", "updated": "2026-06-02T17:14:51+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu30j1/rethinking_retirement_bond_allocation/opcqvot/", "content": "The static 30% is mostly a legacy of the Trinity/Bengen 60/40 framing, and it's a blunt tool for what you're actually trying to solve, which is the first 5 to 10 years of sequence risk.\n Two ideas worth reading up on. The bond tent (Pfau and Kitces wrote a lot on it): ramp bonds up right before and into early retirement, then glide back toward equities once you've cleared the danger zone, since sequence risk is front-loaded so you only need the heavy ballast early. The other is holding the defensive sleeve conditionally instead of always, some trend-following approaches sit in bonds or cash only when the trend rolls over, which gets you the crash protection without the permanent return drag of a fixed 30%.\n Both are more work than "set 30% and forget it", and both can whipsaw, so I wouldn't oversell them. But if the 30% feels arbitrary, that's because it kind of is. I'd anchor it on your withdrawal rate and how many years of spending you want in safe assets, not a round number.\n What's your rough WR and horizon?" }, { "id": "t1_opge4v5", "author": "/u/Sagelllini", "updated": "2026-06-03T04:40:07+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu30j1/rethinking_retirement_bond_allocation/opge4v5/", "content": "The "conventional wisdom" is often wrong.\n Here is the reality on market downturns. Look at the graphs. No, for the past 50 years, they don't last long, with the exception of the 2000's following a decade where the market went up 400%.\n Here is the companion piece on 10% in cash and the rest in stocks. You don't need 6 years of expenses in cash. 10% at a 4% withdrawal rate and 2% distributions will last five years--and as Part 1 I just linked shows, downturns don't last five years.\n The convential wisdom has been wrong for a long time. Ignore it. Own the largest percentage in stocks that you can and hold as small as possible buffer in cash--especially if you are retiring early, because your assets have to last a lot longer." }, { "id": "t1_opgfbmi", "author": "/u/BuySellHoldFinance", "updated": "2026-06-03T04:48:38+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu30j1/rethinking_retirement_bond_allocation/opgfbmi/", "content": "Common wisdom is to reduce your bond allocation...\n My target allocation is 20% TIPS 80% Equities." }, { "id": "t1_op77xp4", "author": "/u/Varathien", "updated": "2026-06-01T21:12:12+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu30j1/rethinking_retirement_bond_allocation/op77xp4/", "content": "Your approach would be better than a standard stock-bond allocation in a 2022 scenario where bonds and stocks both crash.\n In most other scenarios, the stock-bond portfolio would outperform your stock-cash portfolio. A traditional stock-bond portfolio benefits from rebalancing--there are times when the stock market crashes, but bond funds go up. That allows people to sell (bonds) high and buy (stocks) low. Your plan is to use your cash as a separate bucket, so you would not benefit from rebalancing.\n Then there's the question of what would happen to your strategy if there's a prolonged market decline of over 6 years." }, { "id": "t1_op78oz0", "author": "/u/Montaigne_6823", "updated": "2026-06-01T21:15:49+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu30j1/rethinking_retirement_bond_allocation/op78oz0/", "content": "That's way too much cash. You've overcorrected for ditching the bonds and now you're even more conservative." }, { "id": "t1_op8mdpi", "author": "/u/Witty-Drama-3187", "updated": "2026-06-02T01:51:02+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu30j1/rethinking_retirement_bond_allocation/op8mdpi/", "content": "I’m not sure that’s true . In retirement, if I was to go with bonds, the target allocation would be 60% equity/40% bonds . You are suggesting that a six year cash balance in a HYSA, which would amount to roughly 20% of my overall portfolio, is somehow more conservative than a 40% bond allocation?" }, { "id": "t1_opapank", "author": "/u/Montaigne_6823", "updated": "2026-06-02T11:16:00+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu30j1/rethinking_retirement_bond_allocation/opapank/", "content": "You're correct. I guess really I'm just against the all or nothing approach when it comes to cash vs bonds. Why not both and just consider them both as part of your asset allocation (which they of course are whether you choose to acknowledge it or not)?" }, { "id": "t1_opbbnnv", "author": "/u/Witty-Drama-3187", "updated": "2026-06-02T13:23:28+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu30j1/rethinking_retirement_bond_allocation/opbbnnv/", "content": "That’s pretty much what I’m coming out of this with. All cash is likely not advisable, but rather some combination of cash, bonds, and perhaps other product products like TIPS or even managed futures" }, { "id": "t1_op6mb63", "author": "/u/mygirltien", "updated": "2026-06-01T19:33:18+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu30j1/rethinking_retirement_bond_allocation/op6mb63/", "content": "6 years is excessive but if thats what you need then so be it. Where are you seeing 4-6 years to recover? Recessions are generally 18-24 months. Yes there have been longer flat windows but they are one offs in the larger scheme of things." }, { "id": "t1_op6mves", "author": "/u/Witty-Drama-3187", "updated": "2026-06-01T19:35:53+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu30j1/rethinking_retirement_bond_allocation/op6mves/", "content": "The way I looked at it was in this scenario my portfolio is essentially 80% equity, 20% cash . So overall it seems more on the "aggressive" side of things, but maybe I'm not thinking about it correctly." }, { "id": "t1_op6q8h5", "author": "/u/mygirltien", "updated": "2026-06-01T19:51:11+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu30j1/rethinking_retirement_bond_allocation/op6q8h5/", "content": "If your following the standard 4% rule guidance you need a reasonable amount of equities to keep up with the cost of living adjustments as you age." }, { "id": "t1_op6r0dg", "author": "/u/Witty-Drama-3187", "updated": "2026-06-01T19:54:42+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu30j1/rethinking_retirement_bond_allocation/op6r0dg/", "content": "Correct, which is why this thought experiment provides roughly 80% of the portfolio in equities." }, { "id": "t1_op74767", "author": "", "updated": "2026-06-01T20:54:38+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu30j1/rethinking_retirement_bond_allocation/op74767/", "content": "[deleted]" }, { "id": "t1_op7mll8", "author": "/u/mygirltien", "updated": "2026-06-01T22:25:56+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu30j1/rethinking_retirement_bond_allocation/op7mll8/", "content": "6 years in cash is overkill, 6 years including bonds then sure." } ] }, { "source": "r/Fire hot", "id": "t3_1ttq8jz", "title": "When will work become less stressful?", "author": "/u/teric233", "updated": "2026-06-01T12:09:11+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1ttq8jz/when_will_work_become_less_stressful/", "content": "I guess this is fire adjacent?\n We have been saving and investing for a while. I’m 35m married with 2 kids under 2. Both of us work and have a liquid nw of 2.1M. 100k of it in cash and another 350k in asset equity not included in nw. Our spend right now is 99k of which 35k is childcare. Household income is about 250k my wife makes a little more than me.\n We live the most basic life, drive almost 20 year old cars that I do all the maintenance on, we live in a 1400sqft house with a mortgage payment of 1300. I am content with my life I don’t need “things” to make me more happy or fulfilled.\n Every day I have to drive to work I get so stressed out, I get a stomach ache and drive around with pepto in my glovebox. I know that it literally makes no sense to be stressed out and I thought when I hit the crossover where I would technically be able to retire everything would become less stressful. I also for some reason am physically unable to quite quit for some reason, as I am still one of the top performers on my team even tho I want to quiet quit it’s like my brain won’t let me.\n Anyone else deal with this at all, I thought the financial cushion would alleviate a lot of my stress.\n Any advice on how to think about the position I’m in?\n submitted by /u/teric233\n [link] [comments]", "contentHtml": "

I guess this is fire adjacent?

We have been saving and investing for a while. I’m 35m married with 2 kids under 2. Both of us work and have a liquid nw of 2.1M. 100k of it in cash and another 350k in asset equity not included in nw. Our spend right now is 99k of which 35k is childcare. Household income is about 250k my wife makes a little more than me.

We live the most basic life, drive almost 20 year old cars that I do all the maintenance on, we live in a 1400sqft house with a mortgage payment of 1300. I am content with my life I don’t need “things” to make me more happy or fulfilled.

Every day I have to drive to work I get so stressed out, I get a stomach ache and drive around with pepto in my glovebox. I know that it literally makes no sense to be stressed out and I thought when I hit the crossover where I would technically be able to retire everything would become less stressful. I also for some reason am physically unable to quite quit for some reason, as I am still one of the top performers on my team even tho I want to quiet quit it’s like my brain won’t let me.

Anyone else deal with this at all, I thought the financial cushion would alleviate a lot of my stress.
Any advice on how to think about the position I’m in?

submitted by /u/teric233
[link] [comments]", "comments": [ { "id": "t1_op44fek", "author": "/u/Retire_date_may_22", "updated": "2026-06-01T12:14:53+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1ttq8jz/when_will_work_become_less_stressful/op44fek/", "content": "I’d say seek some counseling to deal with the stress. See if it’s you or the employer.\n You have a good cushion. You could change jobs but if it’s you, then you need to learn to deal with it.\n Personally the switch that flipped for me is when I started seeing work as a game and not a personal reflection on me. My life was at home in my house. Work was just a thing I did for money. It wasn’t personal." }, { "id": "t1_opehyyu", "author": "/u/AlwaysReading8675309", "updated": "2026-06-02T22:02:36+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1ttq8jz/when_will_work_become_less_stressful/opehyyu/", "content": "I like this take.\n What caused the flip to work being gamified? And when did that happen??" }, { "id": "t1_opfaaqh", "author": "/u/moresmarterthanyou", "updated": "2026-06-03T00:36:28+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1ttq8jz/when_will_work_become_less_stressful/opfaaqh/", "content": "Another take is I just stopped giving a fuck at work. The less I cared the better I seemed to do. Don’t get me wrong I’m still smart and do a good job, I’m just not tied to do anything. My goals went from being promoted to not getting fired, and I’ll clear 200+ not giving a single fuck this year" }, { "id": "t1_op446q4", "author": "/u/uselessartist", "updated": "2026-06-01T12:13:28+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1ttq8jz/when_will_work_become_less_stressful/op446q4/", "content": "It doesn’t, only your attitude/approach. Sounds like you would benefit from a therapist or counseling. You can afford it too." }, { "id": "t1_op44i2k", "author": "/u/bobdole145", "updated": "2026-06-01T12:15:18+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1ttq8jz/when_will_work_become_less_stressful/op44i2k/", "content": "very much this, you need to re-evaluate your relationship with work, what's causing you stress and why, and how you approach managing it, A therapist/counselor can help you to do some honest self reflection." }, { "id": "t1_op47kdv", "author": "/u/waterbellie", "updated": "2026-06-01T12:33:14+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1ttq8jz/when_will_work_become_less_stressful/op47kdv/", "content": "What happens when you know this is the approach but taking time off to see your therapist regularly also causes you stress? I'm kind of stuck in this loop rn. Constantly taking small hour or so breaks to see random doctors for stress related ailments, want to see my therapist more regularly but at this point I can't workload wise afford to be taking off 2+ hours every day from work. And I've been working on weekends too to stay on top of things. Endless cycle." }, { "id": "t1_op4dmw0", "author": "/u/khbuzzard", "updated": "2026-06-01T13:06:41+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1ttq8jz/when_will_work_become_less_stressful/op4dmw0/", "content": "- Consider doing therapy through telehealth, if you're not already (2+ hours for the appointment suggests that you're doing face-to-face). It doesn't have quite the human connection of face-to-face therapy, but it's a lot more convenient.\n\n- To hell with your workload. You're one person, and your employer gets one person's worth of work out of you. Get as much done as you can in the time you have available, and if you have to let some balls drop, so be it.\n\n- If you feel that your job might be in danger for all the medically necessary time off you're taking, see if you qualify for an intermittent FMLA leave arrangement." }, { "id": "t1_op4j8mm", "author": "/u/waterbellie", "updated": "2026-06-01T13:35:40+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1ttq8jz/when_will_work_become_less_stressful/op4j8mm/", "content": "Thanks for the response.\n I wasn't very clear when I said 2+ hours above - the sessions are only 1 hour and they're already through telehealth. But the things I am working through take it the fuck out of me, can induce flashbacks etc. I need time to recover afterwards, I can't just "snap back on" and go back to work.\n And then there's the myriad of other doc appointments - physical therapists, dermatologists, etc for all the muscle strain, hair loss etc that comes with stress." }, { "id": "t1_op4orpt", "author": "/u/uselessartist", "updated": "2026-06-01T14:03:29+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1ttq8jz/when_will_work_become_less_stressful/op4orpt/", "content": "Try less frequency, unless you need the daily structure." }, { "id": "t1_op4f0sd", "author": "/u/bobdole145", "updated": "2026-06-01T13:14:00+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1ttq8jz/when_will_work_become_less_stressful/op4f0sd/", "content": "Talk with your therapist on setting and enforcing boundaries as well as avoidant personality traits" }, { "id": "t1_op47951", "author": "/u/cantcatchafish", "updated": "2026-06-01T12:31:24+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1ttq8jz/when_will_work_become_less_stressful/op47951/", "content": "Bro got 2.1 miilion and acting like getting fired would kill him. Bro try driving to work with 20k and being your age lololol. Also the bigger problem is a 99k spend! I see it's child care with two income hh so that'll be done somewhat soonAlso you are in charge of the college funds and growing kids for 16 more years minimum... Assume 22 years plus helping out after college in this world as most our parents have had to do.\n You are stressed because you don't see the light because you have two kids and need your job. My suggestion as someone that wishes he were in your position: you have plenty for retirement. Start reducing your yearly spend and doing the following:\n Stop focusing on your savings: 1. Fully fund college accounts 2. Pay off mortgage 3. Pre fund the next 5 or so years of vacations 4. Pre fund new cars (used new or new) 5. Start a hobby slowly with the kids and focus on family. 6. Take a vacation dude. 7. Let compounding work for you with the cash and retirement you have now" }, { "id": "t1_op4r015", "author": "/u/Gorgenapper", "updated": "2026-06-01T14:14:18+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1ttq8jz/when_will_work_become_less_stressful/op4r015/", "content": "Bro got 2.1 miilion and acting like getting fired would kill him. Bro try driving to work with 20k and being your age lololol\n Sometimes this sub is like a bunch of bots throwing rage bait into the waters to watch us churn around in a frenzy. "I have 2.1 million, I eat scavenged lentils with stolen ketchup from McDonald's, how do I spend more money without feeling sick to my stomach?"\n Do they even know how many 30 - 35 year olds in the US (and Canada) don't even have $50k? The median under 35 is $39k, so fully half of Americans 35 and under are in that boat." }, { "id": "t1_opc7bu9", "author": "/u/NestEggFinance", "updated": "2026-06-02T15:49:38+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1ttq8jz/when_will_work_become_less_stressful/opc7bu9/", "content": "Yea they could retire tomorrow if they cut out the childcare or at worst one parent works a job for benefits. Some people in here create problems for themselves that shouldn’t exist. The is more of a symptom of the FIRE community lately as it has become a lot more rigid." }, { "id": "t1_opcb8xa", "author": "/u/Gorgenapper", "updated": "2026-06-02T16:06:44+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1ttq8jz/when_will_work_become_less_stressful/opcb8xa/", "content": "These 'problems' are all self-inflicted, especially the stress they feel while going to work. The median house hold net worth of Americans 35 - 44 is $135k (which includes real estate), they have more than 15x that in liquid assets. OP even says "and another 350k in asset equity not included in nw", like seriously, the net worth is actually 2.45m.\n The whole POINT of FI is to have no stress, it's ironic to stress about getting stress from being financially independent." }, { "id": "t1_op44cwp", "author": "/u/dragon-queen", "updated": "2026-06-01T12:14:27+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1ttq8jz/when_will_work_become_less_stressful/op44cwp/", "content": "It doesn’t sound like this current job will ever be less stressful for you. You are pretty close to you both being able to retire. You might be there in 3 years. However, you are in a financial position to take a break from work or take a lower paying and less stressful job. It would slow your retirement progress a little, but not really that much. I think you know the numbers are there - you just have to be willing to pull the trigger." }, { "id": "t1_op48xjp", "author": "/u/InvestmentsNAnlytics", "updated": "2026-06-01T12:41:01+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1ttq8jz/when_will_work_become_less_stressful/op48xjp/", "content": "Spend before childcare is 3% of liquid NW. they could retire now if they wanted to" }, { "id": "t1_op49y3c", "author": "/u/dragon-queen", "updated": "2026-06-01T12:46:39+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1ttq8jz/when_will_work_become_less_stressful/op49y3c/", "content": "You’re right - I missed that element of this. Some people still want their kids to be in some level of preschool though (for socialization), even if they don’t work. But probably not full time.\n Anyway, yeah, they could probably both retire now and be fine financially, using the 4% rule. I have a feeling based on the tone of this post that they won’t be willing to do that though." }, { "id": "t1_op4j6ds", "author": "/u/InvestmentsNAnlytics", "updated": "2026-06-01T13:35:22+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1ttq8jz/when_will_work_become_less_stressful/op4j6ds/", "content": "Both good points (socialization and their general tone). Pulling the trigger is a big psychological step, especially for someone who has prioritized being a high performer/earner for so long" }, { "id": "t1_op472l5", "author": "/u/yottabit42", "updated": "2026-06-01T12:30:20+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1ttq8jz/when_will_work_become_less_stressful/op472l5/", "content": "You're doing great. This should help remove the stress from work since you can easily take time off to find a better job if needed. Look into pursuing CoastFI perhaps.\n By the numbers you're already FI, and after daycare ends you'll be much more comfortably FI. Really, there's no reason to stress now. You've made it. Consider looking for a lower stress job. Keep the lifestyle creep at a minimum and just coast!" }, { "id": "t1_op4dqc7", "author": "/u/Future-Run-8601", "updated": "2026-06-01T13:07:12+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1ttq8jz/when_will_work_become_less_stressful/op4dqc7/", "content": "This post resonates with me. Although I’m not popping pepto on my way into work, I should be coasting but I am, in fact, in charge of an important project and regularly work OT. I’ve always been more high-strung and it’s hard to change a personality. Aside from therapy, the advice I can offer is to find something outside of work that you can focus on. I reminisce of the days when I was younger and I had more interests and projects outside of work. It’s a career vs job mentality. Careers are what you build for stability and allow you to get to FI. Jobs are just a way to make money. Once you are at FI, you only need a job (and need is even too strong a word)." }, { "id": "t1_op453s4", "author": "/u/Andouiette", "updated": "2026-06-01T12:18:50+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1ttq8jz/when_will_work_become_less_stressful/op453s4/", "content": "Most companies have an Employee Assistance Program (EAP) that offers some free counseling. Great benefit." }, { "id": "t1_op4ocxu", "author": "/u/therealtwomartinis", "updated": "2026-06-01T14:01:25+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1ttq8jz/when_will_work_become_less_stressful/op4ocxu/", "content": "this comment should be higher up near the top.\n OP look into this, it should be tied back for [anonymous] employer feedback. determine if it’s your internal stress or your employer-induced stress" }, { "id": "t1_opai07j", "author": "/u/Strazdas1", "updated": "2026-06-02T10:24:18+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1ttq8jz/when_will_work_become_less_stressful/opai07j/", "content": "And by most you mean tiny percentage of them?" }, { "id": "t1_op4560o", "author": "/u/Alarming-Mix3809", "updated": "2026-06-01T12:19:12+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1ttq8jz/when_will_work_become_less_stressful/op4560o/", "content": "Therapy bro. Do it for yourself and your family." }, { "id": "t1_op50yej", "author": "/u/np0x", "updated": "2026-06-01T15:00:48+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1ttq8jz/when_will_work_become_less_stressful/op50yej/", "content": "Couple of questions and some empathy...\n\n- Are you in IT?\n\n- Are you managing people?\n\n- Is your company/supervisors asking you to do irratioal/incomprehensible/seemingly impossible tasks?\n\n- Are you remote worker?\n\n- Do you like any of your peers?\n Personally I had all three of the above and I was 90-100% funded in my final job (I exited from the final job that gave me the most stress). For me there were a number of factors/failures i couldn't overcome.\n - I couldn't quiet quit, both being a manager and how I was wired, didn't allow me to do so. I really wanted to...When i quit it was near review season, i had gotten top marks and one of the best raises...all while dying in side. This is not a humble brag, it's a description of how poorly i treated myself compared to the job. sigh.\n - My management was insane, and being in middle management with insane leadership is what I always thought of as being asked to make a "square circle"...as someone who executes, this insanity was forced on me at my level and I never figured out how to deal with it...\n - Money is not the solution/problem, but work definitely started to feel increasingly optional, and as this optionality manifested itself, my ability to tolerate stupid degraded...like my body knew before my brain when it was time to stop doing what I was doing.\n - Remote work is HARD. I found that remote work removed a huge amount of the social aspects of work and distilled work down to a disproportionate amount of "work" vs. "social" and made it into a rather exhausting grind.\n - Eventually I realized I didn't like many of my peers, so even if I had the opportunity to socialize, i really didn't want to....between this and the nearing fire moment, all of the "suffering" became more masochistic, and less mandatory, I'm not wired for masochism, so my body manifested this as stress trying to get to the finish line, i was definitely suffering and suspect felt very similar to how you describe it...\n - I also think IT has gone crazy in the last 10 or so years...i'm not a fan of these large distributed teams and massive segmentation of "responsibility." I found this compared to early days of massive autonomy very stressful and not something I was wired to work within. Basically my working style was not a great fit for the current working model in IT.\n Apologies for not offering any simple solutions that worked for me, but I always thought this was a ME problem, not a money problem, but a problem with how I responded to work and if my runway had been longer I would definitely figure out a way to redress my responses to work, because whatever I was doing, wasn't working for me. Luckily i was so close to the end, I was able to grind through it...but when i snapped, it was over within a week. I gave notice abruptly, and just left in 2 weeks.\n "Work[Life] is 10% What Happens to You and 90% How You Respond To It." I always suspected this, but I had a low success rate resolving it...maybe you will do better\n Good luck, do share your answers to above questions if you feel it relevant...Lots of folks telling you to do different kinds of self work, i agree with all/any of them...\n cheers." }, { "id": "t1_op54igw", "author": "/u/teric233", "updated": "2026-06-01T15:17:07+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1ttq8jz/when_will_work_become_less_stressful/op54igw/", "content": "Hey thanks for the long response.\n I’m not in IT I’m a manufacturing engineer. I do not manage, I’m at the senior level tho The problem is we restructured and they pushed my manager out and didn’t backfill so we basically have zero direction but are expected to solve all the problems. I commute daily an hour each way… shit suckkkssss Honestly some of my coworkers are the only reason I even come into work. They make it bearable.\n I’ve done therapy in the past and found it not to work well for me, I’ve had different therapists as well with no success. I’m sure like many people in the fire community my immigrant father instilled absurd work ethic in me that you probably wouldn’t be able to beat out of me with a bat." }, { "id": "t1_op57fk8", "author": "/u/np0x", "updated": "2026-06-01T15:30:16+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1ttq8jz/when_will_work_become_less_stressful/op57fk8/", "content": "Therapy didn't work for me either, but strangely, I found massage helped me with stuff; also, you could try cardio. Both helped me in different ways. Cardio "burned" the anxiety/depression out of my bloodstream, and massage helped me in my earlier life let go of stress/disappointment/regrets that I didn't even know I had internalized. I'm a very intuitive person, so perhaps i'm just not that attuned to the part of my mind that talk therapy needs me to be, but physically, that's the stuff for me...\n I'm a big fan of myofascial massage. It's more about bodywork/repair than it is about a "nice massage." It's often a bit painful, but it gets your body unlocked and moving better internally. It is a challenge to find this kind of massage if you try so hard and far...it might take a minute to find one.\n I feel you on the lack of direction/manager, i feel that either impossible or absent goals are equally stressful, I was once told to "idle" for about 6 months, and it was so weird, it felt like some sort of padded cell compared to working, which just was enjoyable when we had hard but attainable goals...\n P.S. Consider dialing back alcohol if you are drinking to cope; it's not helping. 😉" }, { "id": "t1_opahyd2", "author": "/u/Strazdas1", "updated": "2026-06-02T10:23:55+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1ttq8jz/when_will_work_become_less_stressful/opahyd2/", "content": "Its proven that alcohol increases depression, so its really the worst thing to use when depressed." }, { "id": "t1_opahvko", "author": "/u/Strazdas1", "updated": "2026-06-02T10:23:20+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1ttq8jz/when_will_work_become_less_stressful/opahvko/", "content": "Hour commute to work is normal, this isnt really something to complain about more than work itself." }, { "id": "t1_opdb5fr", "author": "/u/np0x", "updated": "2026-06-02T18:42:52+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1ttq8jz/when_will_work_become_less_stressful/opdb5fr/", "content": "I think that sounds brutal. I found anything more than 30 minutes was hurtful to my soul. It’s so much lost time out of a day that had only so many hours…" }, { "id": "t1_ophhc1q", "author": "/u/Strazdas1", "updated": "2026-06-03T10:01:29+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1ttq8jz/when_will_work_become_less_stressful/ophhc1q/", "content": "Its not brutal. Its normal. Its reality for vast majority of people in the world. You dont need to loose time. I listen to audiobooks on commute." }, { "id": "t1_opfdomy", "author": "/u/54trey", "updated": "2026-06-03T00:55:34+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1ttq8jz/when_will_work_become_less_stressful/opfdomy/", "content": "Doesn't matter if it's normal. It's a major stressor and it's not worth it at all. OP is easily in a position to quit and take his time finding something closer to home (or remote)." }, { "id": "t1_opfjy23", "author": "/u/54trey", "updated": "2026-06-03T01:31:08+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1ttq8jz/when_will_work_become_less_stressful/opfjy23/", "content": "I’m sure like many people in the fire community my immigrant father instilled absurd work ethic in me that you probably wouldn’t be able to beat out of me with a bat.\n Let me tell you where that set of values came from.\n For the vast majority of human history, 99% of humans were exploited beyond hope for their labor. They were made to work their entire lives for someone more powerful than them. Sometimes the labor was forced upon them by physical abuse, sometimes by indebtedness, and in our modern times by the implication that refusing to work will eventually lead to homelessness. In this context, a strong work ethic allows you to at least survive. It is a good thing here. And your father probably came from that context.\n The problem is that this set of values is borne out of an evil system. It is evil because it uses humans and discards them caring nothing for their well-being. It does not provide them fulfillment or development. It can not allow laborers to find inner contentment. If it does, then labor ceases and the system will not survive. Inner contentment is a danger to the system.\n You are at the end of a long line of exploited humans. You find yourself in a system that still does exploit us for our labor, but one that actually provides a path out. That is FIRE. Those of us who are both productive and careful with our income can end our enforced labor far earlier than those who are not. You stand on the precipice of something your ancestors couldn't dream of. It is on you to take that final leap.\n I want to make sure it's clear what I'm saying. Our goal in this life is to be a fully matured human. And a fully matured human loves themself as they are and does not allow the opinions of others to influence that love. Your strong work ethic remains because the opinion of your father still influences your love for yourself. But the work ethic has done its job. You are rich. It is now getting in the way of your next stage of personal development. It is holding you back from a far richer life than you can imagine." }, { "id": "t1_op8xlsk", "author": "/u/Beaver-on-fire", "updated": "2026-06-02T03:00:01+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1ttq8jz/when_will_work_become_less_stressful/op8xlsk/", "content": "Damn, this resonates with my current experience." }, { "id": "t1_opb9bxf", "author": "/u/np0x", "updated": "2026-06-02T13:11:49+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1ttq8jz/when_will_work_become_less_stressful/opb9bxf/", "content": "yeah, i missed on the OP, sad to hear I hit elsewhere...my only advice to you is to try not to rage quit right before annual bonus season. Don't ask me how I know. 😄" }, { "id": "t1_opbn9yi", "author": "/u/Beaver-on-fire", "updated": "2026-06-02T14:19:46+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1ttq8jz/when_will_work_become_less_stressful/opbn9yi/", "content": "8mo and counting... Le sigh." }, { "id": "t1_opbt7e1", "author": "/u/np0x", "updated": "2026-06-02T14:46:59+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1ttq8jz/when_will_work_become_less_stressful/opbt7e1/", "content": "you sound queued up to do same thing I did, if you have annual bonus, you have to wait until that hits the bank to give notice...get some high heart rate cardio in the meantime! hang in there!" }, { "id": "t1_op44w98", "author": "/u/cbdudek", "updated": "2026-06-01T12:17:36+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1ttq8jz/when_will_work_become_less_stressful/op44w98/", "content": "Yup, I can help you here.\n So I used to have a really stressful job. I enjoyed the work, but I just didn't like many elements of the job itself. My wife had the same thing at her job. So we sat down and discussed what we could do to be in a much better situation. So I found a new position making less but is much less stressful and with better benefits. My wife did the same thing. Just like you, we did the heavy lifting and saved a lot so we are just letting compound interest do the work here.\n My advice is you look at doing the same thing. You are close to your number anyway. Instead of killing yourself from a stress perspective, look for lower stress work making less. You don't need to contribute as much as you are contributing now anyway. Prioritize quality of life and family over money. You will be much happier.\n Remember, that $2.1 million of liquid savings is your safety net and your future. Take care of yourselves first and foremost." }, { "id": "t1_op5d17w", "author": "/u/OnlyThePhantomKnows", "updated": "2026-06-01T15:55:21+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1ttq8jz/when_will_work_become_less_stressful/op5d17w/", "content": "35K is childcare. Your spend is 99k so if you stop work and become a SAHP your burn rate would drop to 64K. 2.1M * 3.5% is 73K.\n As long as one of you work for healthcare ( r/baristafire ) you can retire now.\n As long as you have 529s for the kids, you can afford to downshift careers. 60-70K should fully fund them for a state school." }, { "id": "t1_op5dlqt", "author": "/u/teric233", "updated": "2026-06-01T15:57:50+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1ttq8jz/when_will_work_become_less_stressful/op5dlqt/", "content": "Yeah, I know that’s why I know logically I shouldn’t be as stressed as I am. Both my kids have 529’s with 30k each not included in my nw. Assuming they’ll be fine for school." }, { "id": "t1_op5fq0s", "author": "/u/OnlyThePhantomKnows", "updated": "2026-06-01T16:07:16+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1ttq8jz/when_will_work_become_less_stressful/op5fq0s/", "content": "One of you can quit. You are the stressed one. You are the lesser income.\n A little bit of child care is good for the kid. A 1/2 day or two a week is good for socialization and the immune system. Having a full time parent in a kid's life is better than farming them off to strangers 5 days a week." }, { "id": "t1_op5evsg", "author": "/u/OnlyThePhantomKnows", "updated": "2026-06-01T16:03:29+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1ttq8jz/when_will_work_become_less_stressful/op5evsg/", "content": "State colleges (UMass UNH) basically take a seed of 60K these days. Granddaughter lives in NH, we lived in MA when I set up her 529.\n Google up "How much will <college> cost in 2040?" you will get a bunch of sites that will give you estimates. Then run a compounding calculator on your 30K. You will see you are probably short by 50%." }, { "id": "t1_opc7rzb", "author": "/u/NestEggFinance", "updated": "2026-06-02T15:51:36+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1ttq8jz/when_will_work_become_less_stressful/opc7rzb/", "content": "Saying that he will be short when they have $2M liquid net worth at 35 is the main issue with this sub. Absolutely crazy statement and it puts people in spots they don’t need to be in." }, { "id": "t1_opcbo7z", "author": "/u/OnlyThePhantomKnows", "updated": "2026-06-02T16:08:33+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1ttq8jz/when_will_work_become_less_stressful/opcbo7z/", "content": "I was referring to his 529. Dedicating the money to the kid a priori lets the kid know the consequences of their school decision. My family has done this for generations, literally. Uniform gift to minors. 529 is more effective. Since I ended up paying taxes on the money I pulled out for my education.\n Having to pull out 50K/year net per kid is going hurt because of tax impact." }, { "id": "t1_op5x84u", "author": "/u/Walmart-Shopper-22", "updated": "2026-06-01T17:24:19+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1ttq8jz/when_will_work_become_less_stressful/op5x84u/", "content": "I recently hit the same "crossover point" that you did and I think I am less stressed (about work) than I used to be. I do still "stress" about all kinds of things in life (home repairs/upgrades, vehicle repairs, etc) mostly due to the desire to have "optimum outcomes" in every part of life." }, { "id": "t1_op67j7s", "author": "/u/Hot_Share8353", "updated": "2026-06-01T18:11:29+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1ttq8jz/when_will_work_become_less_stressful/op67j7s/", "content": "If your wife is good with it, maybe quit to be a stay at home dad. With childcare as 35% of your monthly costs, it would still be a significant contribution and hopefully better for you and your kids. After removing child care, you would be spending $64K per year, your wife is earning ~$130K and the 4% rule says you are earning $84K from your investments. It would be tight with both of you retiring now once you add healthcare for a fam of 4, but you are so close that one of you could stop working for a time and still easily be in a very safe retirement spot for the both of you by the time the kids are in school.\n Also, you say your job is stressing you out, even though you know if you lost your job you would be fine, so why are you stressing about your job and could getting a different job or just being a stay at home dad fix it?" }, { "id": "t1_op69buq", "author": "/u/Reasonable_Box2568", "updated": "2026-06-01T18:21:38+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1ttq8jz/when_will_work_become_less_stressful/op69buq/", "content": "Agree with this 100%" }, { "id": "t1_op9jwf4", "author": "/u/Determined420", "updated": "2026-06-02T05:38:42+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1ttq8jz/when_will_work_become_less_stressful/op9jwf4/", "content": "Not sure I would say tight with his spend and wife’s income. My spend is more than that with 150k income and I max my 401k and take vacations and pay a mortgage. Not a life of luxury but not tight either" }, { "id": "t1_op4e9gw", "author": "/u/DoinOKThrowaway2", "updated": "2026-06-01T13:10:02+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1ttq8jz/when_will_work_become_less_stressful/op4e9gw/", "content": "It won't until you quit.\n I was hospitalized for stomach pain related to stress. Now I'm on meds to control stomach acid production. Was in therapy for years. Commuted 120 miles a day at odd hours to try and avoid some of the worst traffic in the nation. Paying hundreds in toll road fees to try and be home more. Developed tendonitis in my clutch ankle. I could go on...\n Finally FIRE'd and now I spend so much time in sandals in the grass hanging out with my cat on a leash drinking coffee outside in the sunshine with my spouse every morning.\n Ironically I can see my old commute from my yard. Don't miss it one bit." }, { "id": "t1_op4k2gz", "author": "/u/therealjerseytom", "updated": "2026-06-01T13:39:53+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1ttq8jz/when_will_work_become_less_stressful/op4k2gz/", "content": "Work will become less stressful when you allow it to be.\n You'll have to do some introspection, maybe along with a professional, to get to why you're so stressed with work and feel the need to be a top performer." }, { "id": "t1_op4l1so", "author": "/u/Feisty-Hat2629", "updated": "2026-06-01T13:44:56+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1ttq8jz/when_will_work_become_less_stressful/op4l1so/", "content": "You can afford to quit your job. Maybe volunteer in a homeless shelter for a few months and gain some perspective." }, { "id": "t1_op4lu0t", "author": "/u/KirbzTheWord", "updated": "2026-06-01T13:48:54+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1ttq8jz/when_will_work_become_less_stressful/op4lu0t/", "content": "How often do you exercise and at what intensity?" }, { "id": "t1_op50ydm", "author": "/u/teric233", "updated": "2026-06-01T15:00:48+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1ttq8jz/when_will_work_become_less_stressful/op50ydm/", "content": "I lift weights every day for about an hour. It definitely helps a lot." }, { "id": "t1_op4mx8v", "author": "/u/modern_ducking", "updated": "2026-06-01T13:54:21+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1ttq8jz/when_will_work_become_less_stressful/op4mx8v/", "content": "you're sitting on a golden ticket and your body is telling you something your brain hasn't caught up with yet. the stomach aches aren't about the numbers, they're about the job itself, and no amount of money in the bank fixes that. i've seen this play out before with guys who hit their number and still felt trapped, and usually it's because they confused financial independence with permission to actually leave.\n here's the thing though, you don't have to go from zero to full retirement. you've got enough cushion to take a real break, switch to something that pays half what you make now, or even go part time and barely dent your timeline. two or three years of lower stress work while the kids get older might be worth more to you than grinding for another five years to hit some arbitrary number. your wife makes good money too, so you're not carrying the whole load. sometimes the move is just stepping sideways into something less demanding, not waiting for perfect conditions that never come." }, { "id": "t1_opfkyxk", "author": "/u/btag84", "updated": "2026-06-03T01:37:01+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1ttq8jz/when_will_work_become_less_stressful/opfkyxk/", "content": "Im struggling through this exact issue too. Job is stressful unnecessarily, spending 50% time doing work I dont like and am not suited for so I get criticized by my bosses. I left my prior job to get away from this type of work. But the pay is so good at $200k. I too have about $2M in investments but rent. 1 kid who is a toddler and just diagnosed with autism so I need a ton of flexibility for all of his appointments. Seriously considering either asking for a paycut and demotion or finding another job that pays less and is less stress. I also am tempted to just do my job and be ok with making mistakes. I told my boss I want to do other work, im not the best person for this project. So if they keep me on the project that means they are OK with my mistakes. If not then they can fire me. I am really torn here. I think its the getting fired vs leaving on my own that concerns me." }, { "id": "t1_op4nxki", "author": "/u/UnderstandingOk9448", "updated": "2026-06-01T13:59:20+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1ttq8jz/when_will_work_become_less_stressful/op4nxki/", "content": "Work can be difficult and stressful. This is generally true for higher paying jobs and stress gets worse as you earn more.\n The trick is to learn how to deal with the stress by reducing it. There are lots of ways to do this.\n I am no expert but here are things I did over my 35 year career after college.\n\n- Take a few minutes each morning to work on your to do list before work. Being organized and efficient at work will reduce streas.\n\n- Take time each day before work, at lunch time, or after work to excercise.\n\n- Keep your work at work. Dont bring home work or think of it while home. Spend time each night with your kids and spouse.\n\n- Try to eat healthy including having enough water, limiting alcohol,cbd/thc to weekends, and avoiding eating/drinking 3 hours before bedtime.\n\n- Take time for yourself to read, meditate at night before bed. This helps prepare you for bed.\n\n- Get a full night's sleep each night, 7-8 hours\n\n- Take time on the weekends to recharge and spend/enjoy time with the family. Kids grow up fast.\n\n- Have a hobby/hobbies that you can do to reduce stress and have fun.\n\n- Learn how to change your attitude towards stress. Therapy can help initially here. Self help books can help too.\n Having a structure to your work and personal time helps reduce stress. Having flexibily to make changes as needed also helps. This includes establishing new habits including some of which is listed above.\n It will be very important to figure out the root cause behind the stress. A therapist can help you there.\n I had one for about 5 years when I was around your age. It helped me immensely." }, { "id": "t1_op4sn90", "author": "/u/Firefiresoon", "updated": "2026-06-01T14:22:13+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1ttq8jz/when_will_work_become_less_stressful/op4sn90/", "content": "With both spouses working, you can take some time off or look for a different job or entirely quit while the other one keeps working (hoping they aren't). This will also save on childcare and greatly improve bonding with children and overall mental health for everyone" }, { "id": "t1_op55a7w", "author": "/u/SickMon_Fraud", "updated": "2026-06-01T15:20:38+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1ttq8jz/when_will_work_become_less_stressful/op55a7w/", "content": "Similar situation. 52m but only 1 child in MCOL. $2.1 invested and owe $84k in my house. WFH but it still sucks. I could likely quit now and scrape by but …. Can’t? It’s weird. I feel your pain." }, { "id": "t1_op68ebr", "author": "/u/peachplushxo", "updated": "2026-06-01T18:16:20+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1ttq8jz/when_will_work_become_less_stressful/op68ebr/", "content": "The stomach ache thing is so real, I used to think hitting my number would flip some mental switch but the anxiety just finds new things to latch onto. Therapy helped me more than any spreadsheet ever did." }, { "id": "t1_opbii4r", "author": "/u/Vicuna00", "updated": "2026-06-02T13:57:08+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1ttq8jz/when_will_work_become_less_stressful/opbii4r/", "content": "for me having more $ never helped the stress levels.\n I dunno the answer - I have yet to find it. my only answer is plowing through and hoping to retire next year.\n but don't look at $ as the answer.\n otoh, if you didn't have the $, you'd have the same stress PLUS the stress of not having $. so it does help some. for whatever "stress" I have, I know there are people who work just as hard / harder in lower paying jobs and have actual real stress (wondering how to feed their families, etc). and I am sure some of them find ways to be much happier than me. so hats off to them!\n sry rambling. no answers but can sympathize." }, { "id": "t1_ophcpz1", "author": "/u/bagelbrunch", "updated": "2026-06-03T09:23:05+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1ttq8jz/when_will_work_become_less_stressful/ophcpz1/", "content": "I think you should read a little bit about the "arrival fallacy." It's basically the idea that "Oh, I'll finally be happy or content or *insert Zen transformation here* when I reach XYZ milestone." I think it's very common among people who get interesting in chasing big milestones, like FIRE or CoastFI, etc. Myself included, so don't take this as criticism.\n You will always find things in life to get stressed about. That doesn't mean FIRE isn't a worthy goal to pursue. But it does mean that we need to find ways to cope with stress/burnout/ennui along the journey. You don't magically become a better version of yourself when you hit CoastFI or FIRE. It's the same old you.\n So find that thing that gives you tranquility and true staying power, whether it's meditation or prayer or the camaraderie of an adult softball league. Longevity is way more important that running as fast as you can to hit FIRE if you hate your life along the way and develop a neurotic pysche." }, { "id": "t1_op466ej", "author": "/u/Numerous-Cup1863", "updated": "2026-06-01T12:25:05+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1ttq8jz/when_will_work_become_less_stressful/op466ej/", "content": "When you stop doing it." }, { "id": "t1_op47y2a", "author": "/u/jkiley", "updated": "2026-06-01T12:35:24+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1ttq8jz/when_will_work_become_less_stressful/op47y2a/", "content": "Talk to your family doctor about whether you have an anxiety disorder. It’s super common, and the meds make a big difference.\n I grew up around some skeptical ideas about medication and mental health in general, but that stuff doesn’t survive even minimal scrutiny. For me, anxiety meds turn off the physical symptoms (nausea, heart rate increases, sweating), and otherwise I’m good. There’s no cognitive effect that I can notice.\n Originally, I asked my doctor because of the more acute stuff like you’re describing. But, what I learned from taking meds was that there was also a crushing baseline level of anxiety that’s hard to understand until it’s removed.\n I’ve been pretty open about it, and I found out that some huge percentage of the adults I know take at least anxiety meds with a decent number taking other stuff, too.\n There’s no valor in suffering unnecessarily. It’s a very common and well understood medical space, and they have a lot of tools to help immediately." }, { "id": "t1_op52g3z", "author": "/u/voldin91", "updated": "2026-06-01T15:07:43+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1ttq8jz/when_will_work_become_less_stressful/op52g3z/", "content": "Are they SSRIs? I'm kinda worried about the side effects" }, { "id": "t1_op6kro3", "author": "/u/jkiley", "updated": "2026-06-01T19:26:04+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1ttq8jz/when_will_work_become_less_stressful/op6kro3/", "content": "SNRIs for me, but I know plenty of people with SSRIs, too. Not much I would recognize as side effects, but life is way better with than without." }, { "id": "t1_op484rb", "author": "/u/Longjumping-Ice1171", "updated": "2026-06-01T12:36:28+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1ttq8jz/when_will_work_become_less_stressful/op484rb/", "content": "Lexapro helped me." }, { "id": "t1_op52h6x", "author": "/u/voldin91", "updated": "2026-06-01T15:07:51+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1ttq8jz/when_will_work_become_less_stressful/op52h6x/", "content": "Any side effects?" }, { "id": "t1_op48m51", "author": "/u/franknbeanzzzzz", "updated": "2026-06-01T12:39:13+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1ttq8jz/when_will_work_become_less_stressful/op48m51/", "content": "Check your diet" }, { "id": "t1_op48s46", "author": "/u/brianmcg321", "updated": "2026-06-01T12:40:09+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1ttq8jz/when_will_work_become_less_stressful/op48s46/", "content": "When I turned in my two week notice. Best two weeks ever." }, { "id": "t1_op48uej", "author": "/u/jerwang24", "updated": "2026-06-01T12:40:31+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1ttq8jz/when_will_work_become_less_stressful/op48uej/", "content": "Get a government job and coast. Thats what I’m doing currently." }, { "id": "t1_op49m88", "author": "/u/Retired-Yam8988", "updated": "2026-06-01T12:44:49+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1ttq8jz/when_will_work_become_less_stressful/op49m88/", "content": "time to seek some therapy" }, { "id": "t1_op4a3yf", "author": "/u/Primary_Excuse_7183", "updated": "2026-06-01T12:47:34+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1ttq8jz/when_will_work_become_less_stressful/op4a3yf/", "content": "Sounds like you need some help from a therapist or a new job.\n You work to pay the bills especially with the life yall live man you shouldn’t be that stressed going to work. it’s work. it’ll be there. Focus on yourself and your mental health. you’re in a better financial position than the vast majority of people which is where most people’s stress stems from." }, { "id": "t1_op4b2ec", "author": "/u/Ok-Bass5062", "updated": "2026-06-01T12:52:49+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1ttq8jz/when_will_work_become_less_stressful/op4b2ec/", "content": "Get a different job.\n 36 and similar liquid (2mm+ and then house equity) also with 2 young kids (3&1). Two things changed in the last year that substantial decreased my stress: bigger nicer house (more peaceful/easier to keep tidy/clean) and a different job (same employer).\n Different job lead me to being more energized/interested in work again (more learning and different pain points). There are still stresses at work but they are different so they don't mentally annoy me as much as the old job with the same old issues. New job has better work life balance as well.\n I'll also add that I've always been a high performer but when I started caring less as NW grew that my performance reviews improved even more." }, { "id": "t1_op4jrt6", "author": "/u/xampl9", "updated": "2026-06-01T13:38:23+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1ttq8jz/when_will_work_become_less_stressful/op4jrt6/", "content": "I had a two step reduction in stress.\n First one was when my savings could support me for six months. This meant I would change jobs anytime I wanted and be OK.\n Second one was when my earnings exceeded my contributions (which happened quite a bit later). This meant I could start coasting if I wanted to." }, { "id": "t1_op4sbs9", "author": "/u/Bertozoide", "updated": "2026-06-01T14:20:42+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1ttq8jz/when_will_work_become_less_stressful/op4sbs9/", "content": "NEVAH" }, { "id": "t1_op4x76y", "author": "/u/poop-dolla", "updated": "2026-06-01T14:43:38+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1ttq8jz/when_will_work_become_less_stressful/op4x76y/", "content": "You know you guys could retire now if you drop the childcare, right? If being a SAHP or both of you doing that together sounds appealing to you guys, then why not just do that?" }, { "id": "t1_op4yivq", "author": "/u/Montaigne_6823", "updated": "2026-06-01T14:49:45+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1ttq8jz/when_will_work_become_less_stressful/op4yivq/", "content": "Don't quiet quit, you need to manage up and let your manager know what you need to take some stress off your plate. Or you can just quit and raise your kids! Esp if spouse is still working!" }, { "id": "t1_op50rv9", "author": "/u/teric233", "updated": "2026-06-01T14:59:58+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1ttq8jz/when_will_work_become_less_stressful/op50rv9/", "content": "My company did a restructuring last year and my manager got pushed out. The didn’t backfill and I now report to a vp with no technical knowledge that just wants to increase bottom line. It’s almost impossible to manage up unfortunately." }, { "id": "t1_op53c42", "author": "/u/Montaigne_6823", "updated": "2026-06-01T15:11:44+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1ttq8jz/when_will_work_become_less_stressful/op53c42/", "content": "Remember there's a whole world out there. Tap your network for a new job. Start sending some resumes out. You don't have to choose between this job and no job, though those are both options for you.\n Good luck, I hope you find something better!" }, { "id": "t1_op5it6o", "author": "/u/Reasonable_Box2568", "updated": "2026-06-01T16:20:59+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1ttq8jz/when_will_work_become_less_stressful/op5it6o/", "content": "Same age with basically the same liquid NW but no kids and higher spend in HCOL area.\n Yesterday I was taking a walk through the woods on a local trail with my spouse and dogs and realized this is one of my favorite things to do and it costs nothing. I have done things that cost way more money but bring much less joy. It was in this moment that I realized I probably won’t be going back to high paying stressful corporate work (I recently lost my job) and will probably Coast to full FI. Having things that bring you joy but cost very little is the key to stepping back and realizing you have enough. It sounds like you are also very frugal and don’t need many luxuries in life. Use this mindset as motivation to prioritize family, health and lower stress lifestyles. We won the game of finance and now it’s time to focus on things that matter more in life" }, { "id": "t1_op5z2tu", "author": "/u/WorldRank1CatFancier", "updated": "2026-06-01T17:32:13+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1ttq8jz/when_will_work_become_less_stressful/op5z2tu/", "content": "either you work a really stressful job, or your physical health is in shambles and your mental health is being bottlenecked by that." }, { "id": "t1_op63s20", "author": "/u/marcduberge", "updated": "2026-06-01T17:52:17+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1ttq8jz/when_will_work_become_less_stressful/op63s20/", "content": "What is causing you stress? Can you type it out here and maybe you will gain insight" }, { "id": "t1_op65k38", "author": "/u/teric233", "updated": "2026-06-01T18:00:49+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1ttq8jz/when_will_work_become_less_stressful/op65k38/", "content": "I feel like I’m afraid of getting in trouble for doing bad work or getting fired for doing bad work or underperforming. Which wouldn’t affect me financially at all but that’s the best I can do to describe the anxiety. It would be like a moral failing for me." }, { "id": "t1_op6qumf", "author": "/u/marcduberge", "updated": "2026-06-01T19:53:58+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1ttq8jz/when_will_work_become_less_stressful/op6qumf/", "content": "I feel ya man. I spent my career in tech sales and you were only as good as your last quarter. I didn’t know how much stress I had until it was gone. It took a year for me to heal my CNS.\n I think you could benefit from some talk therapy to really dive into this. How much is your anxiety lying to you? Do you really think you are delivering suboptimal work? I bet you aren’t. Corporations want you anxious and scared. You however have FU money, the ultimate card to play. I bet they would have trouble replacing you if you left. I would start doing things to make them nervous: update your LinkedIn. Come to work every now and again dressed up.\n Get to the point where you leave work and can shut your brain off. Don’t look at your phones work email. Don’t open texts about work. Turn off read notifications.\n My man, you have the world by the tail. Just coast a bit. Build your network in case you want to look for other jobs. Keep saving money. Make it a 9-5 only. And chill out. They are lucky to have you" }, { "id": "t1_op63t1j", "author": "/u/Broad_Room_3260", "updated": "2026-06-01T17:52:24+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1ttq8jz/when_will_work_become_less_stressful/op63t1j/", "content": "I threw up stomach acid in the parking lot this morning which isn’t an every day thing. For me, It’s like 10% anxiety and 90% diet/environment. Hot coffee, juice, allergies, and pet danger all make my acid reflux worse. Also, cortisol spikes in the morning to help get us going so mornings can be tough if stuff is out of whack" }, { "id": "t1_op675qx", "author": "/u/methanized", "updated": "2026-06-01T18:09:25+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1ttq8jz/when_will_work_become_less_stressful/op675qx/", "content": "stress is something that happens inside of you" }, { "id": "t1_op88uil", "author": "/u/NaorobeFranz", "updated": "2026-06-02T00:30:38+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1ttq8jz/when_will_work_become_less_stressful/op88uil/", "content": "The issue is clearly the work environment, mental disorder you might have (ex. Anxiety), or something else. So you either change jobs or see a doctor who could better determine if it's anxiety, and suggest therapy/meds. It's not very complex. The number 2.1M doesn't mean much since you're still relying on that particular job." }, { "id": "t1_op903be", "author": "/u/GWeb1920", "updated": "2026-06-02T03:16:17+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1ttq8jz/when_will_work_become_less_stressful/op903be/", "content": "Get therapy.\n You need to retrain your reward centers and find something to make you feel valued other than work.\n Now that you have fixed your finances you need to fix your self" }, { "id": "t1_op9bd6h", "author": "/u/CarelessDragonfly455", "updated": "2026-06-02T04:33:40+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1ttq8jz/when_will_work_become_less_stressful/op9bd6h/", "content": "a stomachache everyday ?? that sounds legitimately scary to me, like Stomach Ulcer or Stomach Cancer scary. I'm not a doctor but no income is worth that amount of stress and pain every day.\n i don't know how people live like this. if it were my husband id be trying to get him into therapy ASAP , have him quit, or have him take time off. like a full on sabbatical even.\n also genuinely confused that no one here is suggesting to just quit honestly. 99k expenses including 35k childcare(!), and wife makes more... at that point why not be a Full time House Husband?\n cut childcare & overall expenses become a very reasonable 64k. since current HH income is 250k and she makes more, sounds like she can cover it. (it also doesn't have to be forever either, could probably go back to work once the kids are more independent as well. )\n work will always be there but your health is never guaranteed. hope there's nothing serious going on and that whatever you choose works out for you" }, { "id": "t1_op9h8on", "author": "/u/Determined420", "updated": "2026-06-02T05:17:50+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1ttq8jz/when_will_work_become_less_stressful/op9h8on/", "content": "Your spend minus childcare is 66 k. Your wife makes maybe 130k. You can have a comfortable life now and be a stay at home dad while your wife works" }, { "id": "t1_opahhv5", "author": "/u/Strazdas1", "updated": "2026-06-02T10:20:28+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1ttq8jz/when_will_work_become_less_stressful/opahhv5/", "content": "It doesnt. You just have to take it until you can fire." }, { "id": "t1_opb29cl", "author": "/u/Cupheadvania", "updated": "2026-06-02T12:34:18+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1ttq8jz/when_will_work_become_less_stressful/opb29cl/", "content": "just do barista fire man. Go work at a golf course 3 days a week and live off your $2.1M. Take out 2% since you supplement with an additional $15k salary every year and watch it grow" }, { "id": "t1_opbubc3", "author": "/u/MachineNo3365", "updated": "2026-06-02T14:52:02+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1ttq8jz/when_will_work_become_less_stressful/opbubc3/", "content": "I am about to retire and it only gets worse." }, { "id": "t1_ope2wc6", "author": "/u/notthediz", "updated": "2026-06-02T20:49:16+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1ttq8jz/when_will_work_become_less_stressful/ope2wc6/", "content": "When I start feeling like that I'll usually take some time off to decompress. But most times my work is pretty chill. Just when deadlines end up getting stacked on top of each other, then more people wanting more stuff around the same time it pushes the line" }, { "id": "t1_opf5ewi", "author": "/u/Rom2814", "updated": "2026-06-03T00:08:54+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1ttq8jz/when_will_work_become_less_stressful/opf5ewi/", "content": "Work only became more stressful as I climbed the ladder - expectations and pressure constantly increase. You go from presenting to product owners to directors to VP’s to C-suite executives. You get handed more and more challenging projects, you get assigned to lead larger and larger teams. You go from doing little work products to driving the strategy for a product or an entire program or an entire division.\n There was a point at which I was drinking myself to death (around 2005) to deal with the stress, then went on SSRI’s and eventually went off of them and just learned to deal with it.\n This is of course if you are focused on going further in your career and making a lot more money - you could choose not to do that or do a different kind of job.\n Work didn’t become less stressful until I retired (about two weeks ago), it only got more stressful." }, { "id": "t1_op4bdz6", "author": "/u/BedWonderful1051", "updated": "2026-06-01T12:54:35+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1ttq8jz/when_will_work_become_less_stressful/op4bdz6/", "content": ""...have a liquid nw of 2.1M."\n It's important to keep in mind that whatever portion of these funds are in tax deferred accounts, it's not immediately liquid without consequence at your age. And at least 20% belongs to the taxman." }, { "id": "t1_op4c1dz", "author": "/u/TrashPanda_924", "updated": "2026-06-01T12:58:06+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1ttq8jz/when_will_work_become_less_stressful/op4c1dz/", "content": "It’s worth noting that whatever the taxman receiveth is based on your taxable income, which may be $0 depending on individual circumstances." }, { "id": "t1_op44nqe", "author": "/u/Past-Option2702", "updated": "2026-06-01T12:16:13+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1ttq8jz/when_will_work_become_less_stressful/op44nqe/", "content": "It’s always been stressful. Dangerous, even. (Less so today than for your grandparents, obviously)\n Where did this idea come from that millennials created the stressful workweek?\n Is this the result of participation trophies?" }, { "id": "t1_op478ow", "author": "/u/dissentmemo", "updated": "2026-06-01T12:31:20+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1ttq8jz/when_will_work_become_less_stressful/op478ow/", "content": "What is wrong with you" }, { "id": "t1_op4aoez", "author": "/u/Past-Option2702", "updated": "2026-06-01T12:50:42+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1ttq8jz/when_will_work_become_less_stressful/op4aoez/", "content": "Feels weird doesn’t it?" } ] }, { "source": "r/Fire hot", "id": "t3_1ttto65", "title": "FIRE Journey and Stress", "author": "/u/UnderstandingOk9448", "updated": "2026-06-01T14:19:19+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1ttto65/fire_journey_and_stress/", "content": "The journey to FIRE is as important to manage and live in as a future post FIRE life.\n In that journey, work can be difficult and stressful. Some stress can be motivating. Some stress like being afraid to lose your job is not healthy. The grind itself to make enough money can be exhausting.Too much stress can affect your health.\n The trick is to learn how to deal with the grind and stress by reducing it to a reasonable amount that you can manage.\n I am no expert but here are things I did over my 35 year career after college before I FIREd.\n\n- Take a few minutes each morning to work on your to do list before work. Do this daily and weekly. Being organized and efficient at work will reduce stress.\n\n- Take time each day before work, at lunch time, or after work to excercise.\n\n- Keep your work at work. Dont bring home work or think of it while home.\n\n- Try to eat healthy including having enough water, limiting alcohol,cbd/thc to weekends, and avoiding eating/drinking 3 hours before bedtime.\n\n- Take time for yourself to read, meditate at night before bed. This helps prepare you for bed.\n\n- Get a full night's sleep each night, 7-8 hours.\n\n- Take time on the weekends to recharge and spend/enjoy time with the family and friends.\n\n- Have a hobby/hobbies that you can do to reduce stress and have fun. Enjoy them when you arent working.\n\n- Learn how to change your attitude towards stress. Therapy can help initially here. Self help books can help too. The goal is to reduce your worry, anxiety, etc especially for things outside of your control.\n For those having significant stress, it will be very important to figure out the root cause behind the stress. It is different for everyone. A therapist can help you there.\n Best of luck to you out there on your FIRE journey.\n submitted by /u/UnderstandingOk9448\n [link] [comments]", "contentHtml": "

The journey to FIRE is as important to manage and live in as a future post FIRE life.

In that journey, work can be difficult and stressful. Some stress can be motivating. Some stress like being afraid to lose your job is not healthy. The grind itself to make enough money can be exhausting.Too much stress can affect your health.

The trick is to learn how to deal with the grind and stress by reducing it to a reasonable amount that you can manage.

I am no expert but here are things I did over my 35 year career after college before I FIREd.

  1. Take a few minutes each morning to work on your to do list before work. Do this daily and weekly. Being organized and efficient at work will reduce stress.

  2. Take time each day before work, at lunch time, or after work to excercise.

  3. Keep your work at work. Dont bring home work or think of it while home.

  4. Try to eat healthy including having enough water, limiting alcohol,cbd/thc to weekends, and avoiding eating/drinking 3 hours before bedtime.

  5. Take time for yourself to read, meditate at night before bed. This helps prepare you for bed.

  6. Get a full night's sleep each night, 7-8 hours.

  7. Take time on the weekends to recharge and spend/enjoy time with the family and friends.

  8. Have a hobby/hobbies that you can do to reduce stress and have fun. Enjoy them when you arent working.

  9. Learn how to change your attitude towards stress. Therapy can help initially here. Self help books can help too. The goal is to reduce your worry, anxiety, etc especially for things outside of your control.

For those having significant stress, it will be very important to figure out the root cause behind the stress. It is different for everyone. A therapist can help you there.

Best of luck to you out there on your FIRE journey.

submitted by /u/UnderstandingOk9448
[link] [comments]", "comments": [ { "id": "t1_op4su79", "author": "/u/VenusVibe-1", "updated": "2026-06-01T14:23:06+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1ttto65/fire_journey_and_stress/op4su79/", "content": "This is such an underrated part of FIRE. Reaching the goal isn't worth much if you sacrifice your health getting there." }, { "id": "t1_op50v0f", "author": "/u/bellecaramella", "updated": "2026-06-01T15:00:22+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1ttto65/fire_journey_and_stress/op50v0f/", "content": "One of the best post of this sub. Thank you for the tips." }, { "id": "t1_op6f6se", "author": "/u/DIYRetiree", "updated": "2026-06-01T18:55:39+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1ttto65/fire_journey_and_stress/op6f6se/", "content": "I agree, honestly, I think the hardest part about any retirement is going from saving to spending, from one socially accepted activity (work) to an unstructured day. The social/emotional aspect is underrated and misunderstood.\n And FIRE means you're doing both MORE and FASTER in a shorter period than most period, so it can be even more difficult (ironically) than the 40 year grind can be." }, { "id": "t1_op5lclu", "author": "/u/gmania5000", "updated": "2026-06-01T16:32:17+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1ttto65/fire_journey_and_stress/op5lclu/", "content": "As a 55-yr old nearing the end of my career, this is well said. Thank you. One thing I have tried to do when I'm feeling work stress on Sunday nights is to make sure inhale something entirely not work related, specifically for me, to look forward to that week. Dinner out or a run with a friend. Something with the kids. Whatever reminds me I'm living too, not just working." }, { "id": "t1_op4xt3x", "author": "/u/Montaigne_6823", "updated": "2026-06-01T14:46:27+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1ttto65/fire_journey_and_stress/op4xt3x/", "content": "I'll drop this book link here also. A great book that can help someone structure their day before, and after RE!\n https://www.amazon.com/Happier-Hour-Distraction-Expand-Matters/dp/1982148810/ref=sr_1_1?dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.UHvOINTrktdAlNd7p5AJ9povftvF3mAkln_5Nf-p6yLJ_dHS0oJJC2-BXC-Sytqjawr9CVYZOgPbi6-twrVj7cOF8hTSINhxVYiBH96OUEA.0Ktpch332hhgLH87lHT3Ih6YiIHn-WPCttsl4RnEXqk&dib_tag=se&qid=1780325145&refinements=p_27%3ACassie+Holmes&s=books&sr=1-1" } ] }, { "source": "r/Fire hot", "id": "t3_1ttwpww", "title": "Recently started FIRE but then offered an interview with past employees", "author": "/u/Digity1980", "updated": "2026-06-01T16:02:26+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1ttwpww/recently_started_fire_but_then_offered_an/", "content": "I've been doing FIRE for about three months now and I've been enjoying it. Since I'm doing this at 45 my withdraw rate is a modest 2.7% and I'm not including the money in my TFSA. I've averaged around $2K or less per month so far. So I get by on little. I could spend more that that per month, but usually don't need to. That being said, there have been times where I would have liked to spend, but decided not too. I don't mind being frugal so not the end of the world. I think I just need to learn to allow myself to spend, but that's another story.\n A manager that I use to work with reached out to me about a job. Obviously, I'm not seeking work, but I was curious since I previously worked with him and the members on his team. I'm just wondering now, should I go ahead with the interviewing and see how it goes? It wouldn't be the worst thing to add a bit more money to my retirement plans. etc. But I'm also torn because I love the freedom. Has anyone here that's done FIRE been in a similar situation? If so, I'm curious to know how it went.\n submitted by /u/Digity1980\n [link] [comments]", "contentHtml": "

I've been doing FIRE for about three months now and I've been enjoying it. Since I'm doing this at 45 my withdraw rate is a modest 2.7% and I'm not including the money in my TFSA. I've averaged around $2K or less per month so far. So I get by on little. I could spend more that that per month, but usually don't need to. That being said, there have been times where I would have liked to spend, but decided not too. I don't mind being frugal so not the end of the world. I think I just need to learn to allow myself to spend, but that's another story.

A manager that I use to work with reached out to me about a job. Obviously, I'm not seeking work, but I was curious since I previously worked with him and the members on his team. I'm just wondering now, should I go ahead with the interviewing and see how it goes? It wouldn't be the worst thing to add a bit more money to my retirement plans. etc. But I'm also torn because I love the freedom. Has anyone here that's done FIRE been in a similar situation? If so, I'm curious to know how it went.

submitted by /u/Digity1980
[link] [comments]", "comments": [ { "id": "t1_op5fr5r", "author": "/u/IceCreamforLunch", "updated": "2026-06-01T16:07:25+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1ttwpww/recently_started_fire_but_then_offered_an/op5fr5r/", "content": "You're retired at a sub-3% withdrawal rate (and you're not even including your actual retirement account in that number...).\n So this is not a financial decision. It is a lifestyle decision.\n Personally, I'd ask myself why I retired and whether anything has changed to prompt me to revisit that decision. If not, then I'd stay retired." }, { "id": "t1_op5h2sq", "author": "/u/Digity1980", "updated": "2026-06-01T16:13:20+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1ttwpww/recently_started_fire_but_then_offered_an/op5h2sq/", "content": "I'm including my RRSP and CAD Cash non-registered account. The thing is, the original decision to do FIRE wasn't planned. I just did it after being laid off and realizing I could. So, if I did work, I could just do a bunch of nice upgrades, etc. Right now I can't really splurge much on things." }, { "id": "t1_op5j51l", "author": "/u/ferrx", "updated": "2026-06-01T16:22:27+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1ttwpww/recently_started_fire_but_then_offered_an/op5j51l/", "content": "I think right now, 3 months into your FIRE is a decent trial of how you'll be spending money. Do you feel like it's a bit of a squeeze, maybe you wish you had a bit extra? That should make it an easy financial decision, assuming the job isn't delaying any plans you had.\n Otherwise, it's a lifestyle choice, like others said. Are you bored at home? Want to feel useful? Back at work can help- and now you have the financial independence to perhaps make it part time, or improve work-life balance if that becomes an issue." }, { "id": "t1_op5jdgb", "author": "/u/Bnstas23", "updated": "2026-06-01T16:23:30+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1ttwpww/recently_started_fire_but_then_offered_an/op5jdgb/", "content": "I think if this was me I would either attempt to become mentally accepting (either through therapy, experimenting with spending more, doing more spreadsheet scenarios etc) with spending when I wanted to (within reason) or I would go back to work for a couple years to accomplish the same goal" }, { "id": "t1_op5iplb", "author": "/u/Crankupthepropofol", "updated": "2026-06-01T16:20:33+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1ttwpww/recently_started_fire_but_then_offered_an/op5iplb/", "content": "The beauty about FIREing is that you don’t have to work, but you sure can if you want to.\n I’d at least give it a looksee." }, { "id": "t1_op5i0pd", "author": "/u/hungrykoreanguy", "updated": "2026-06-01T16:17:31+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1ttwpww/recently_started_fire_but_then_offered_an/op5i0pd/", "content": "work optional: doesn't hurt to interview/accept new job if it's something you will enjoy, not have to do." }, { "id": "t1_op5ggn2", "author": "/u/ligett", "updated": "2026-06-01T16:10:34+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1ttwpww/recently_started_fire_but_then_offered_an/op5ggn2/", "content": "So do you want the job if offered? If yes - do the interview, if not - don't.\n P.s. I personally often make a mistake of coming when somebody is calling, including job interviews, but the important decision is the above - would I accept the job offer and in many cases I know in advance that I wouldn't. So why wasting everybody's time." }, { "id": "t1_op5ig4w", "author": "/u/Digity1980", "updated": "2026-06-01T16:19:24+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1ttwpww/recently_started_fire_but_then_offered_an/op5ig4w/", "content": "I'm on the fence. I do miss the money a bit and would use it to upgrade some stuff around the house sooner. But not working has allowed me to focus on other stuff that I found important too." }, { "id": "t1_op5ku2l", "author": "/u/pdx_mom", "updated": "2026-06-01T16:30:00+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1ttwpww/recently_started_fire_but_then_offered_an/op5ku2l/", "content": "Then take the interviews and see where it leads. Also they might be willing to discuss you working sat 30 hours a week or 4 days a week or something like that." }, { "id": "t1_op5gs8h", "author": "/u/OnlyThePhantomKnows", "updated": "2026-06-01T16:12:00+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1ttwpww/recently_started_fire_but_then_offered_an/op5gs8h/", "content": "I consulted for more than a decade. I worked 6-9 months and took off 3-6 months. I'd go back to work when I wanted to. See if you can consult. Hourly rate, no benefits, and build in an expectation of many long breaks.\n I worked because I found it hard to stop. I worked because I decided to chase a childhood dream (space/Moon). I worked for a lot less than I could make, but shifted my career towards space. I achieved my dream. I have a couple of things on the moon that I designed. I kept the freedom and worked not for the money, but for the satisfaction that chasing that dream gave. Yes I still made good coin." }, { "id": "t1_op5k7qy", "author": "/u/LongjumpingNorth8500", "updated": "2026-06-01T16:27:15+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1ttwpww/recently_started_fire_but_then_offered_an/op5k7qy/", "content": "Considering you RE because you could afford it, seems like tou would have liked to work a bit longer. If you were offered this same situation within a couple weeks of being laid off, would you have approached the question differently? Based on your responses here, I get the feeling you are looking for someone to tell you its okay to go back to work. Im here to tell you. It's okay. A bit more time in the workforce will give you that added income allowing you to retire the way you want to retire. Not just get by." }, { "id": "t1_op5ozkj", "author": "/u/Outrageous-Stress317", "updated": "2026-06-01T16:48:20+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1ttwpww/recently_started_fire_but_then_offered_an/op5ozkj/", "content": "How did you feel about your job before you left? I (39F, CA) was in a similar situation last year -- after about two years away, my manager reached out and asked if I was interested in covering for someone on extended medical leave. I thought I was refreshed enough after extended time away, that I could reset the unemployment clock, save a little bit of extra money for some tiny luxuries, and keep my options open for the future.\n I had forgotten just how miserable I was in that role; we quickly acclimatize to our new realities. It was meant to be a 12-16 month engagement but I only lasted 3 months... the AI-ification of both the products we were building and tools we were using was deeply unsettling to me. Not to mention the harshness on my body of reintroducing a commute. I was really disappointed to see old coworkers I respect play the role of "yes people", building things they felt were net negative for society out of fear of losing their own jobs.\n It was a good learning experience though, I now feel 1000% sure I'm done with this chapter of my life. I've returned back to my early retirement with deep gratitude. Dealing with occasional bouts of listlessness is so much better than the misery of performing in corporate America. What a privilege it is to spend your days in the nonlinear pursuit of meaning and purpose.\n Perhaps I've burned a bridge (my manager was disappointed but he also agreed that things have gotten markedly worse), but I would sooner slash every non-essential lifestyle expense than go back to a similar environment, so does it really matter?" }, { "id": "t1_op5qalm", "author": "/u/Ungl8r", "updated": "2026-06-01T16:54:04+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1ttwpww/recently_started_fire_but_then_offered_an/op5qalm/", "content": "No. It’s a trap" }, { "id": "t1_op63fff", "author": "/u/DistributionEven9393", "updated": "2026-06-01T17:50:48+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1ttwpww/recently_started_fire_but_then_offered_an/op63fff/", "content": "I'm also torn because I love the freedom\n You don't lost any freedom by interviewing. Go for it. You can negotiate on your terms. The only freedom you'd lose is by making a commitment to something you don't want or not aligned with.\n It comes down to your lifestyle choice - by doing an interview it might remind you of why you retired early." }, { "id": "t1_opbou1w", "author": "/u/GeorgeHarter", "updated": "2026-06-02T14:26:56+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1ttwpww/recently_started_fire_but_then_offered_an/opbou1w/", "content": "A long time ago, I worked at a tech startup.\n The VC representative was about 35. I asked how he got this cool job where he flys in for 2 days, checks up on us and flys out.\n He had founded and sold a company. Financially, he was golden. He tried retiring. After a year of basically golfing every day, he got bored.\n FIRE doesn’t mean “Don’t Work”. It means do what you want to do.\n I don’t have a job anymore. But I train product teams about once a month. I wrote a book. Do some mentoring. Still making improvements to this old house I renovated last year. Learning Claude Code, and plan to release some software soon." }, { "id": "t1_opdtc0s", "author": "/u/wiiface666", "updated": "2026-06-02T20:05:20+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1ttwpww/recently_started_fire_but_then_offered_an/opdtc0s/", "content": "Imagine blowing your whole paycheck since you dont need it anyways. Sounds like a blast.\n Don't listen to me im nowhere near fire" }, { "id": "t1_op5geg9", "author": "/u/Zulishk", "updated": "2026-06-01T16:10:18+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1ttwpww/recently_started_fire_but_then_offered_an/op5geg9/", "content": "If he’s someone you previously worked with, why is there any interview? Either he wants you back or he doesn’t and you can freely negotiate any terms. Aside from that, working again is up to you and whether you miss it or need to fill idle time. What is your alternative to keeping yourself busy/occupied/happy?" }, { "id": "t1_op5hrw3", "author": "/u/Digity1980", "updated": "2026-06-01T16:16:25+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1ttwpww/recently_started_fire_but_then_offered_an/op5hrw3/", "content": "I worked with him at a different company than the current one he's at, so if I'd have to go through the whole interview process." }, { "id": "t1_op5pn15", "author": "/u/Ignore_Me_PLZ", "updated": "2026-06-01T16:51:12+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1ttwpww/recently_started_fire_but_then_offered_an/op5pn15/", "content": "If you interview and don't get the job offer, the decision will be made for you. Pursue it, learn more about the position and cross that bridge when you get there. Honestly, you are interviewing them more than they are interviewing you." }, { "id": "t1_op63whc", "author": "/u/Agile-Secret7765", "updated": "2026-06-01T17:52:49+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1ttwpww/recently_started_fire_but_then_offered_an/op63whc/", "content": "2k is 2.7% if your withdrawal rate suggests that 4k is about 5%… that is only 48k. Annually. Idk I’d want access to more than that and you can always work do a time then stop again." }, { "id": "t1_op6jx0n", "author": "/u/Digity1980", "updated": "2026-06-01T19:21:59+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1ttwpww/recently_started_fire_but_then_offered_an/op6jx0n/", "content": "I'm invested in VEQT (almost 100%) so I expect, with my small withdrawal rate, for my yearly spend to grow over time at the accounts grow. But yeah, it wouldn't hurt to bump up my yearly spend a bit." }, { "id": "t1_op671k7", "author": "/u/SignificantFail3632", "updated": "2026-06-01T18:08:47+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1ttwpww/recently_started_fire_but_then_offered_an/op671k7/", "content": "take the executive job, bank the higher income to supercharge your savings rate, and use the title bump to fast track your FIRE timeline by years." }, { "id": "t1_op6xtcb", "author": "/u/nowIn3D", "updated": "2026-06-01T20:25:31+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1ttwpww/recently_started_fire_but_then_offered_an/op6xtcb/", "content": "Just do the interview and be up front about your work expectations. If they can’t give you the freedom you want then don’t take the job." }, { "id": "t1_op73d2u", "author": "/u/fican41", "updated": "2026-06-01T20:50:48+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1ttwpww/recently_started_fire_but_then_offered_an/op73d2u/", "content": "I rarely comment but I was in a very similar situation. I'm 46, single, no kids, also in Canada, was laid off one year after my mom was diagnosed cancer in 2017 (guess they didn't like that I was WFH a lot and had to take time off for my mom's medical appointments). I worked in that company for 11 years so I got a pretty big severance package. I was only 38 at the time when they terminated my position, had a paid off townhouse (bought for 250k in 2002) and about 1 million in my investment portfolio. My spending is also low like yours (no mortgage and similar housing expenses), groceries and eating out varies but not too crazy. Today my portfolio is 2.5 million, with very little contribution throughout the years (my mom passed away a few months ago so I got 100k from her life insurance but also paid over 20k for her funeral etc.). What I'm trying to tell you is that with your spending you do not need to worry about running out of money, and there's absolutely no need for you take the job if your ex manager offered it to you. You will have more than enough money and in fact your portfolio will continue to grow throughout the years. Now if you ever find a partner and have kids then that's a different story." }, { "id": "t1_op8w6c5", "author": "/u/SpecialistKoala9765", "updated": "2026-06-02T02:50:57+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1ttwpww/recently_started_fire_but_then_offered_an/op8w6c5/", "content": "FI is a state and RE is a choice. It’d be your choice to see what options of work are there. You also need to ask yourself how is this work going to be different from before? I guess you’d care less about better pay and advancement opportunities … so what is more important to you? Better work life balance ? Time off? Flexibility ? Project consulting based rather than taking full accountability as an employee ? These are all the things you can now demand if you take it …" }, { "id": "t1_opadpew", "author": "/u/_Mulberry__", "updated": "2026-06-02T09:50:43+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1ttwpww/recently_started_fire_but_then_offered_an/opadpew/", "content": "I'd do the interview and try to negotiate less than 40 hours. Best of both worlds here if they'd go for it. Obviously less pay, but your investments are growing like crazy right now anyways" }, { "id": "t1_opai9tx", "author": "/u/Strazdas1", "updated": "2026-06-02T10:26:20+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1ttwpww/recently_started_fire_but_then_offered_an/opai9tx/", "content": "You are at 2.7% WR. You dont need to waste your time with another job." } ] }, { "source": "r/Fire hot", "id": "t3_1tta550", "title": "No more Sunday Scaries! :)", "author": "/u/DontForgetTheDivy", "updated": "2026-05-31T22:54:41+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tta550/no_more_sunday_scaries/", "content": "-I, M47, worked my last day this past Friday after giving notice 8 weeks prior to the company I had worked the last 26 years for. I was completely burnt out and just couldn't keep grinding. This is the first Sunday I have had that hasn't been full of dread knowing I had another work week to wake up to tomorrow in years. It is a weird, wild and wonderful feeling.\n -Details for those interested:\n *Age 47, single, no kids, MCOL\n *$3.1M NW not including my home - split nearly 50/50 between 401K and assets I can access easily right now (HYSA, Individual Brokerage)\n *Just $55K left on home at 1.99%\n *monthly spend = $5500 including the mortgage. Will drop to $4500 after 5 years.\n -Short Story Time\n At 20 years old I was doing IT Contract work up and down the US East Coast. I got into my fair share of trouble as a teenager / young man and eventually lost my driver's license. Took a contract job at a startup company in NYC I could commute to using mass transit. After the 6 month contract ended, they offered me a full time position, that I turned down. They made some better offers and finally one with stock options. I also turned that down, thinking "Stocks are for rich people, we don't even know anyone that understands these things". Told the boss of the company I was contracting through, and he advised me I should take that offer immediately. So I did.\n A couple years later, the startup company went public. The office was electric as we watched the first day of trading. I knew right then, I wanted to learn all I can about this stock market thing. I continued to work and invest and discovered FIRE not long after. All this is to say, if I hadn't lost my license at 20yo, I likely would not be retiring at 47yo. Sort of crazy when you connect the dots like that. Thanks for reading my story. If you have a trouble maker kid, don't give up on them.\n AMA - I guess? I've got plenty of time to respond now. :)\n Edit: I had a good experience with this company that helped me with healthcare - https://movehealth.io/earlyretirees\n submitted by /u/DontForgetTheDivy\n [link] [comments]", "contentHtml": "

-I, M47, worked my last day this past Friday after giving notice 8 weeks prior to the company I had worked the last 26 years for. I was completely burnt out and just couldn't keep grinding. This is the first Sunday I have had that hasn't been full of dread knowing I had another work week to wake up to tomorrow in years. It is a weird, wild and wonderful feeling.

-Details for those interested:
*Age 47, single, no kids, MCOL
*$3.1M NW not including my home - split nearly 50/50 between 401K and assets I can access easily right now (HYSA, Individual Brokerage)
*Just $55K left on home at 1.99%
*monthly spend = $5500 including the mortgage. Will drop to $4500 after 5 years.

-Short Story Time
At 20 years old I was doing IT Contract work up and down the US East Coast. I got into my fair share of trouble as a teenager / young man and eventually lost my driver's license. Took a contract job at a startup company in NYC I could commute to using mass transit. After the 6 month contract ended, they offered me a full time position, that I turned down. They made some better offers and finally one with stock options. I also turned that down, thinking "Stocks are for rich people, we don't even know anyone that understands these things". Told the boss of the company I was contracting through, and he advised me I should take that offer immediately. So I did.

A couple years later, the startup company went public. The office was electric as we watched the first day of trading. I knew right then, I wanted to learn all I can about this stock market thing. I continued to work and invest and discovered FIRE not long after. All this is to say, if I hadn't lost my license at 20yo, I likely would not be retiring at 47yo. Sort of crazy when you connect the dots like that. Thanks for reading my story. If you have a trouble maker kid, don't give up on them.

AMA - I guess? I've got plenty of time to respond now. :)

Edit: I had a good experience with this company that helped me with healthcare - https://movehealth.io/earlyretirees

submitted by /u/DontForgetTheDivy
[link] [comments]", "comments": [ { "id": "t1_op12ybs", "author": "/u/nak00010101", "updated": "2026-05-31T23:04:26+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tta550/no_more_sunday_scaries/op12ybs/", "content": "Congrats\n You are going to find out that Saturdays are scary...the working stiffs clog up the stores." }, { "id": "t1_op16n5m", "author": "/u/DontForgetTheDivy", "updated": "2026-05-31T23:25:50+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tta550/no_more_sunday_scaries/op16n5m/", "content": "Good call. *taking notes*" }, { "id": "t1_op1ijjm", "author": "/u/Artificial_Squab", "updated": "2026-06-01T00:37:22+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tta550/no_more_sunday_scaries/op1ijjm/", "content": "Costco any time you want!" }, { "id": "t1_op6x664", "author": "/u/Distinct-Sky", "updated": "2026-06-01T20:22:36+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tta550/no_more_sunday_scaries/op6x664/", "content": "I no longer go to Costco on the weekends, it's just mad max fury. I try to squeeze those runs on weekday evenings." }, { "id": "t1_op45xes", "author": "/u/lazyeyejim", "updated": "2026-06-01T12:23:38+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tta550/no_more_sunday_scaries/op45xes/", "content": "That's no joke. I find myself waiting until Monday to go to a store if I can." }, { "id": "t1_op4ec5e", "author": "/u/RedRipe", "updated": "2026-06-01T13:10:25+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tta550/no_more_sunday_scaries/op4ec5e/", "content": "I wait until Monday to go to the movies" }, { "id": "t1_op7ovey", "author": "/u/anysteph", "updated": "2026-06-01T22:38:15+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tta550/no_more_sunday_scaries/op7ovey/", "content": "Yes, we shop on Monday, but not Social Security benefits delivery Mondays. 😄" }, { "id": "t1_opc3bh6", "author": "/u/lazyeyejim", "updated": "2026-06-02T15:32:03+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tta550/no_more_sunday_scaries/opc3bh6/", "content": "Social security Mondays are brutal. There's a grocery store where I live that has senior discounts on Thursdays. I avoid that day and place as well." }, { "id": "t1_op11wxu", "author": "/u/OhZoneManager", "updated": "2026-05-31T22:58:32+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tta550/no_more_sunday_scaries/op11wxu/", "content": "Feels amazing, eh?\n I am 3 months RE this Monday. Time has flown by, and zero regerts! Enjoy!" }, { "id": "t1_op17wwa", "author": "/u/DontForgetTheDivy", "updated": "2026-05-31T23:33:20+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tta550/no_more_sunday_scaries/op17wwa/", "content": "Thanks! Congrats to you as well!" }, { "id": "t1_op2a6gs", "author": "/u/Hot_Set_8040", "updated": "2026-06-01T03:33:01+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tta550/no_more_sunday_scaries/op2a6gs/", "content": "Go fuck you both! Congrats by the way!" }, { "id": "t1_op1aost", "author": "/u/RevolutionaryAd1066", "updated": "2026-05-31T23:49:45+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tta550/no_more_sunday_scaries/op1aost/", "content": "Can u please DM the healthcare plan ?" }, { "id": "t1_op1d0nb", "author": "/u/DontForgetTheDivy", "updated": "2026-06-01T00:03:39+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tta550/no_more_sunday_scaries/op1d0nb/", "content": "now included in original post" }, { "id": "t1_op18f3j", "author": "/u/AllUpInItYo", "updated": "2026-05-31T23:36:20+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tta550/no_more_sunday_scaries/op18f3j/", "content": "I'm an unintentional FIRE. Lost my last job 2022. Tried finding something, never happened. After 2023, I realized, financially, I didn't HAVE TO work. Stopped looking, and my investments have outperformed my last salary the last three years.\n All that to say that I replaced the Sunday Scaries with getting loaded on Sundays and watching sports. Currently doing so. Can't believe how much not working has improved my physical and mental health. I wish the same to you!" }, { "id": "t1_opgvhbw", "author": "/u/QQBBOMG", "updated": "2026-06-03T06:53:35+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tta550/no_more_sunday_scaries/opgvhbw/", "content": "Same here! Unintentional but super glad it did. My days consist of side projects and my dog and it’s way more fulfilling than ever." }, { "id": "t1_op12bn1", "author": "/u/Visible_Structure483", "updated": "2026-05-31T23:00:50+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tta550/no_more_sunday_scaries/op12bn1/", "content": "it gets better.\n at some point you're going to be excited for it to be Sunday because you've got fun stuff to do on Monday." }, { "id": "t1_op14jnp", "author": "/u/hellotrace", "updated": "2026-05-31T23:13:33+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tta550/no_more_sunday_scaries/op14jnp/", "content": "So true. That’s me! 18 months in, I’m excited for Mondays. I walk to my favorite coffee shop, no line and no stress about finding a table. It’s great." }, { "id": "t1_op1dltj", "author": "/u/IntelligentFire999", "updated": "2026-06-01T00:07:11+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tta550/no_more_sunday_scaries/op1dltj/", "content": "Mondays are my Costco days - nice to have the entire warehouse to yourself; not as many (or any) food sampling stations tho lol." }, { "id": "t1_op1g7vi", "author": "/u/hellotrace", "updated": "2026-06-01T00:23:02+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tta550/no_more_sunday_scaries/op1g7vi/", "content": "The luxury of slow browsing with a big cart. Worth it." }, { "id": "t1_op1ghzk", "author": "/u/IntelligentFire999", "updated": "2026-06-01T00:24:45+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tta550/no_more_sunday_scaries/op1ghzk/", "content": "Last time I was there I challenged myself to cruise thru EVERY AISLE, and STILL keep the bill to less than $50. I lost by about $13, but it was still the lowest bill in a long time. Was fun!" }, { "id": "t1_op1ptdk", "author": "/u/MozzieKiller", "updated": "2026-06-01T01:22:14+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tta550/no_more_sunday_scaries/op1ptdk/", "content": "I’d love it if there was a scheduled “no samples” block for a certain time every week. I’d go then. I hate the sample people (consumers) clogging up the aisles hovering like locusts!" }, { "id": "t1_op2vel9", "author": "/u/Blintzotic", "updated": "2026-06-01T06:14:22+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tta550/no_more_sunday_scaries/op2vel9/", "content": "Nearly 2 years retired. I much prefer weekdays now. Weekdays I have to myself. Weekends are when people ask things of my time." }, { "id": "t1_op12efx", "author": "/u/_Losing_Generation_", "updated": "2026-05-31T23:01:17+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tta550/no_more_sunday_scaries/op12efx/", "content": "Congrats, I'm 2 months in at 58. Best decision ever. Still feeling my way through and trying to decide what I want to do first. It's such a relief on Sunday evenings not getting that dread feeling. It's fantastic. Think I'll take a nap now" }, { "id": "t1_op12m90", "author": "/u/mjac021", "updated": "2026-05-31T23:02:32+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tta550/no_more_sunday_scaries/op12m90/", "content": "What are you doing for healthcare?" }, { "id": "t1_op138hw", "author": "/u/DontForgetTheDivy", "updated": "2026-05-31T23:06:03+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tta550/no_more_sunday_scaries/op138hw/", "content": "I purchased a plan with the help of a company that helps early retirees find healthcare plans. I find the whole thing overly complicated. Solid plan with dental is costing me $700 a month. No government assistance as my portfolio is throwing off to much income. I'm just treating it as another expense to budget for.\n Edit: after many requests and MOD approval - I used this company to help me find a plan. I probably could have found one on my own but it's all a bit overwhelming. I had a good experience. I have no connection to this company in any way at all other than my recent use of them to help me with this. https://movehealth.io/earlyretirees" }, { "id": "t1_op14aqb", "author": "/u/fire_aspirant", "updated": "2026-05-31T23:12:08+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tta550/no_more_sunday_scaries/op14aqb/", "content": "What company is it?" }, { "id": "t1_op14s7o", "author": "/u/DontForgetTheDivy", "updated": "2026-05-31T23:14:55+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tta550/no_more_sunday_scaries/op14s7o/", "content": "MODS - I will post if allowed. I don't want to break any rules." }, { "id": "t1_op19yfe", "author": "/u/Zphr", "updated": "2026-05-31T23:45:26+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tta550/no_more_sunday_scaries/op19yfe/", "content": "Sure, but if I find out at any later point that this is some form of shill I am going to not only ban you, but blacklist you. We welcome helpful information, but I swear it's a rare day that we don't have several people trying to exploit the users in here.\n So please, if it's in good faith, go ahead. And I thank you for asking." }, { "id": "t1_op1acoy", "author": "/u/DontForgetTheDivy", "updated": "2026-05-31T23:47:46+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tta550/no_more_sunday_scaries/op1acoy/", "content": "Good for you, I am very happy to have you looking out for all the good folks here. I am no shill and have nothing to do with this company in any way other than having them help me with this recently." }, { "id": "t1_op1ar5q", "author": "/u/Zphr", "updated": "2026-05-31T23:50:08+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tta550/no_more_sunday_scaries/op1ar5q/", "content": "Glad to hear it. I'm always up for knowing more health insurance resources to refer people to. Please go ahead and edit it into your actual post for maximum visibility." }, { "id": "t1_op15cr5", "author": "/u/miayakuza", "updated": "2026-05-31T23:18:16+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tta550/no_more_sunday_scaries/op15cr5/", "content": "Congratulations and GFY!" }, { "id": "t1_op15vb2", "author": "/u/miayakuza", "updated": "2026-05-31T23:21:17+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tta550/no_more_sunday_scaries/op15vb2/", "content": "I tried googling this. Nothing came up. Do you mean MODA?" }, { "id": "t1_op1679h", "author": "/u/DontForgetTheDivy", "updated": "2026-05-31T23:23:14+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tta550/no_more_sunday_scaries/op1679h/", "content": "I'm asking the MODS (moderators) of this sub if I'm allowed to post a link to the company." }, { "id": "t1_op191kl", "author": "/u/guppyfresh", "updated": "2026-05-31T23:40:00+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tta550/no_more_sunday_scaries/op191kl/", "content": "If you have time could you DM me as well." }, { "id": "t1_op14xwi", "author": "/u/fire_aspirant", "updated": "2026-05-31T23:15:51+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tta550/no_more_sunday_scaries/op14xwi/", "content": "If posting is not allowed, can you please DM?" }, { "id": "t1_op151di", "author": "/u/DontForgetTheDivy", "updated": "2026-05-31T23:16:25+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tta550/no_more_sunday_scaries/op151di/", "content": "just sent" }, { "id": "t1_op16jo8", "author": "/u/No_Sport_9328", "updated": "2026-05-31T23:25:15+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tta550/no_more_sunday_scaries/op16jo8/", "content": "Could you please DM me the name as well?" }, { "id": "t1_op1aare", "author": "/u/jericko", "updated": "2026-05-31T23:47:27+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tta550/no_more_sunday_scaries/op1aare/", "content": "Could you please DM me as well. I have a young child with a heart condition so Healthcare is my main reason for staying in the workplace." }, { "id": "t1_op17vfo", "author": "/u/whiteorchid1058", "updated": "2026-05-31T23:33:05+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tta550/no_more_sunday_scaries/op17vfo/", "content": "Can you send me the information as well please?\n Thank you" }, { "id": "t1_op18b6g", "author": "/u/ReststrahlenEffect", "updated": "2026-05-31T23:35:41+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tta550/no_more_sunday_scaries/op18b6g/", "content": "Can you DM me the company as well? This is one of the things that’s keeping me from RE." }, { "id": "t1_op195kv", "author": "/u/scottyviscocity", "updated": "2026-05-31T23:40:40+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tta550/no_more_sunday_scaries/op195kv/", "content": "I'd love to hear who the company is as well. DM if possible please." }, { "id": "t1_op19dkn", "author": "/u/-LordDarkHelmet-", "updated": "2026-05-31T23:42:00+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tta550/no_more_sunday_scaries/op19dkn/", "content": "was it just a broker in your state? also wondering. I quit on tuesday" }, { "id": "t1_op15arm", "author": "/u/Perennial18", "updated": "2026-05-31T23:17:57+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tta550/no_more_sunday_scaries/op15arm/", "content": "Healthcare is the one thing that gives me pause on pulling the trigger. You inspire me to go for it! Congratulations and thank you for sharing!" }, { "id": "t1_op1b7za", "author": "/u/Irwinmfletcher2020", "updated": "2026-05-31T23:52:53+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tta550/no_more_sunday_scaries/op1b7za/", "content": "Can you dm me with company name. I am 10 days away from joining the FIRE crew\n Thanks" }, { "id": "t1_op1bpyu", "author": "/u/DontForgetTheDivy", "updated": "2026-05-31T23:55:50+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tta550/no_more_sunday_scaries/op1bpyu/", "content": "link is now in post with mod approval" }, { "id": "t1_op1jc9x", "author": "/u/Rom2814", "updated": "2026-06-01T00:42:16+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tta550/no_more_sunday_scaries/op1jc9x/", "content": "I just retired 2 weeks at 57 and am feeling that tonight - I looked at my wife and said “I don’t have to go to work tomorrow!”\n The contrast is remarkable. I feel it in my chest, like a physical sensation." }, { "id": "t1_op1jvy0", "author": "/u/DontForgetTheDivy", "updated": "2026-06-01T00:45:37+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tta550/no_more_sunday_scaries/op1jvy0/", "content": "Fantastic! I'm no doctor, but that sounds like a lot less stress on the heart and mind that I know you've earned. Good for you." }, { "id": "t1_op1f0sf", "author": "/u/BoredTigerWillKill", "updated": "2026-06-01T00:15:43+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tta550/no_more_sunday_scaries/op1f0sf/", "content": "Congratulations!! And as a recently early retired guy I can assure you that you won't miss your office much.\n I used to have Sunday night scaries and Monday morning blues like clockwork. I retired 2 months ago and not a single Sunday or Monday since then has been anything but a bliss!\n Enjoy your freedom!!" }, { "id": "t1_op1gmlx", "author": "/u/DontForgetTheDivy", "updated": "2026-06-01T00:25:32+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tta550/no_more_sunday_scaries/op1gmlx/", "content": "Thanks man. It's such a relief. Congrats to you too!" }, { "id": "t1_op1bkrk", "author": "/u/IntelligentFire999", "updated": "2026-05-31T23:54:58+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tta550/no_more_sunday_scaries/op1bkrk/", "content": "What is a "sunday"?\n lol 😄 Welcome to the club and gfy!" }, { "id": "t1_op1bvfq", "author": "/u/DontForgetTheDivy", "updated": "2026-05-31T23:56:45+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tta550/no_more_sunday_scaries/op1bvfq/", "content": "Ha! Happy to be here in the what is a sunday club!" }, { "id": "t1_op11wzr", "author": "/u/Fed_worker", "updated": "2026-05-31T22:58:33+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tta550/no_more_sunday_scaries/op11wzr/", "content": "Congrats 🎉. You have more than enough now. Be happy and stay positive and healthy, you have 43+ years to go" }, { "id": "t1_op1550v", "author": "/u/Longjumping_Owl_5665", "updated": "2026-05-31T23:17:01+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tta550/no_more_sunday_scaries/op1550v/", "content": "so u finaly won the one more year ? ur spending is very good compared to networth" }, { "id": "t1_op15yad", "author": "/u/DontForgetTheDivy", "updated": "2026-05-31T23:21:46+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tta550/no_more_sunday_scaries/op15yad/", "content": "YUP! Time for a new flair! I wouldn't be surprised if this first year the spending bumps up a bit as I celebrate, but I'm a pretty simple guy." }, { "id": "t1_op1j4jc", "author": "/u/motleythedog", "updated": "2026-06-01T00:40:56+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tta550/no_more_sunday_scaries/op1j4jc/", "content": "Congratulations! I did 2 years ago and wasn't anywhere as set as you (i do have a husband who still works which helps a ton). Its been utter bliss. I sleep in too late all the time. I work for fun and a little extra $ at a B&B in my vacation town. I go camping and walk my dogs a ton.\n Like others said...shop midweek. I like Thursdays because its when stores are most stocked in my area anyway.\n For those looking at health care, don't forget the ACA. Assuming your income drops considerably as ours has (I leverage a combo of stocks and money market), you can get a decent plan with good subsidies. The trick is to keep your income below a certain threshold. For my husband and I, we pay about $300 a month (income last year was about 70k)" }, { "id": "t1_op1cynf", "author": "/u/pizzaisdelish", "updated": "2026-06-01T00:03:19+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tta550/no_more_sunday_scaries/op1cynf/", "content": "I'm in awe of those with monthly spend under $5k. I assume that includes prorated real estate taxes and insurance?\n I feel like we're not big spenders at all, no kids, cook at home 85% of the time in moderate cost living area and we're close to $7k average (been closely tracking for a year). This is without a mortgage, no car pmt, and home renovations and major vacations aren't counted in that 7k as they're from separate account." }, { "id": "t1_op1elmm", "author": "/u/DontForgetTheDivy", "updated": "2026-06-01T00:13:11+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tta550/no_more_sunday_scaries/op1elmm/", "content": "Curious, what are the biggest categories of this $7K that's excluding all the major home / car costs? If unsure, dig into the numbers and find out." }, { "id": "t1_op1k2pk", "author": "", "updated": "2026-06-01T00:46:47+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tta550/no_more_sunday_scaries/op1k2pk/", "content": "[deleted]" }, { "id": "t1_op1lbqb", "author": "/u/DontForgetTheDivy", "updated": "2026-06-01T00:54:31+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tta550/no_more_sunday_scaries/op1lbqb/", "content": "Perfect, that's a step most people never even get to. Now it's just a matter pf priorities / trade offs which I'm sure you have already considered." }, { "id": "t1_op4t159", "author": "/u/Difficult_Storm_5344", "updated": "2026-06-01T14:24:01+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tta550/no_more_sunday_scaries/op4t159/", "content": "I am still working in a low cost state with a mortgage and I am under 4k a month basic expenses.\n I am single though. No kids. Don't do much, ha" }, { "id": "t1_op5swoh", "author": "/u/pizzaisdelish", "updated": "2026-06-01T17:05:30+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tta550/no_more_sunday_scaries/op5swoh/", "content": "I could see that with one car, lower taxes etc. Enjoy it!" }, { "id": "t1_op1qncd", "author": "/u/Sorry_Crow8417", "updated": "2026-06-01T01:27:28+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tta550/no_more_sunday_scaries/op1qncd/", "content": "man that's huge, congrats. the whole "stocks are for rich people" thing hitting different when you actually took the leap. 26 years at one place and still got out with time to actually live." }, { "id": "t1_op1u5g1", "author": "/u/No-Ear8164", "updated": "2026-06-01T01:49:17+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tta550/no_more_sunday_scaries/op1u5g1/", "content": "I can’t wait to get rid of the Sunday scaries. I usually start stressing about the coming work week around 5pm on Sunday. Currently, 49 and on track to FIRE in about 6 years. It feels like it is so far away!!!! My friends and family all ask what I’m going to do when I retire. My response…”whatever the hell I want to”." }, { "id": "t1_op4pltd", "author": "/u/When_I_Grow_Up_50ish", "updated": "2026-06-01T14:07:35+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tta550/no_more_sunday_scaries/op4pltd/", "content": "Congratulations. Any epic trip/activity to kickoff your retirement?" }, { "id": "t1_op4skii", "author": "/u/DontForgetTheDivy", "updated": "2026-06-01T14:21:51+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tta550/no_more_sunday_scaries/op4skii/", "content": "Nothing planned right away. I'm just going to decompress and focus on my health and some projects I've been putting off around the house. After a few months I will start thinking about a trip though!" }, { "id": "t1_op4yg2a", "author": "/u/When_I_Grow_Up_50ish", "updated": "2026-06-01T14:49:23+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tta550/no_more_sunday_scaries/op4yg2a/", "content": "Misogi Challenge - something so defining that you look back years later and remember" }, { "id": "t1_op15ero", "author": "/u/godofguitar3", "updated": "2026-05-31T23:18:36+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tta550/no_more_sunday_scaries/op15ero/", "content": "Were you ever married?" }, { "id": "t1_op16a7z", "author": "/u/DontForgetTheDivy", "updated": "2026-05-31T23:23:43+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tta550/no_more_sunday_scaries/op16a7z/", "content": "Nope, always just me." }, { "id": "t1_op1jrc4", "author": "/u/ZealousidealPhoto685", "updated": "2026-06-01T00:44:50+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tta550/no_more_sunday_scaries/op1jrc4/", "content": "Congratulations 🎉. Did you ever get your drivers license back? 😀" }, { "id": "t1_op1kejv", "author": "/u/DontForgetTheDivy", "updated": "2026-06-01T00:48:47+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tta550/no_more_sunday_scaries/op1kejv/", "content": "LMAO. Yes I did. Although I continued to work in NYC for the next decade or so and probably didn't need it much during that time." }, { "id": "t1_op593eq", "author": "/u/peachblossombbyxo", "updated": "2026-06-01T15:37:48+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tta550/no_more_sunday_scaries/op593eq/", "content": "The part about losing your license at 20 leading to you accidentally taking the stock options is one of the best origin stories I've ever read on this sub. Congrats on your first peaceful Sunday man you earned every bit of it" }, { "id": "t1_op6iuwb", "author": "/u/DontForgetTheDivy", "updated": "2026-06-01T19:16:42+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tta550/no_more_sunday_scaries/op6iuwb/", "content": "Glad you enjoyed that. The options from that company didn't wind up being all that important (the company is struggling). But they are the reason I got interested in stocks and stopped seeing them as something only for the already wealthy. No way I get to FIRE with that mindset. And, yes, alll this was possible because I lost my license in 2000. Life can be a funny thing." }, { "id": "t1_op18h9s", "author": "/u/CraftScared2858", "updated": "2026-05-31T23:36:41+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tta550/no_more_sunday_scaries/op18h9s/", "content": "This is great - really happy for you. I’m M34 and finally started investing as of April and this month when my partner and I noticed our total liquid cash in HYSA were at 150k.\n I invested a good chunk of the money - 80k into a brokerage of vtsax and vigax and 7.5 into a Roth IRA into vtsax and am finally contributing to my 401k. Should I be worried that I invested when the markets are at an all time high and take some money out and wait for a low period or just be confident and stick with it for years and keep contributing?" }, { "id": "t1_op19dtk", "author": "/u/DontForgetTheDivy", "updated": "2026-05-31T23:42:02+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tta550/no_more_sunday_scaries/op19dtk/", "content": "I'm no certified financial planner, but at 34yo... you have plenty of time to recover from any market down turns. Those are good funds. Here's the main thing: When the downturn happens, and it will (no one knows when), you do NOT sell. You hold what you have and keep investing more. It's not going to be easy to do. Your emotions will tell you to get out. Emotions and investing don't mix, you stay strong and stay the course." }, { "id": "t1_op1hf23", "author": "/u/bellecaramella", "updated": "2026-06-01T00:30:22+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tta550/no_more_sunday_scaries/op1hf23/", "content": "This sounds glorious. I’m 32 DINK, no kids and just started my journey at 30. We’re only 207k net worth and have a long journey ahead but I hope to feel what you feel someday." }, { "id": "t1_op1hvev", "author": "/u/DontForgetTheDivy", "updated": "2026-06-01T00:33:12+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tta550/no_more_sunday_scaries/op1hvev/", "content": "You are still young and you are here. Seems to me you are off to a good start." }, { "id": "t1_op1yagf", "author": "/u/bellecaramella", "updated": "2026-06-01T02:15:07+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tta550/no_more_sunday_scaries/op1yagf/", "content": "Thanks for the kind words. Are you still in the NYC area? Did you consider moving out of the states?" }, { "id": "t1_op1zub7", "author": "/u/DontForgetTheDivy", "updated": "2026-06-01T02:25:00+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tta550/no_more_sunday_scaries/op1zub7/", "content": "I had to move to FL during the GFC 2009. Been here ever since. Pros and cons of course, but certainly cheaper." }, { "id": "t1_op22kn5", "author": "/u/Local_Phenomenon", "updated": "2026-06-01T02:42:22+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tta550/no_more_sunday_scaries/op22kn5/", "content": "Cheers!" }, { "id": "t1_op3b92b", "author": "/u/g33ky_g1t", "updated": "2026-06-01T08:33:23+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tta550/no_more_sunday_scaries/op3b92b/", "content": "Congratulations! Amazing how some decisions can affect so much. Enjoy the freedom.\n Oh, and you can change your flair here now. No more 1 More Year for you 😃" }, { "id": "t1_op3yu6y", "author": "/u/SouthernZorro", "updated": "2026-06-01T11:40:08+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tta550/no_more_sunday_scaries/op3yu6y/", "content": "Enjoy. I've been retired for 10 years now and it's been the best part of my life hands down. It's absolutely famazing to not get up in the morning and breathe tailpipe fumes to get to my former BigCorp job and sit in meetings with VPs who are idiots." }, { "id": "t1_op4rykq", "author": "/u/Difficult_Storm_5344", "updated": "2026-06-01T14:18:57+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tta550/no_more_sunday_scaries/op4rykq/", "content": "congrats. Numbers look right for you. Especially with no kids or partner pushing for a 40k kitchen remodel 😄 You likely have some room there of 30k-40k a year in annual spend, for fun if you choose to. Whether it's traveling or some other hobby that requires money. But always good to have a conservative draw when retiring in your 40s. Social security will likely still be there at 1900-2k a month starting at 62 which will buffer withdrawals more. Enjoy" }, { "id": "t1_op4su9h", "author": "/u/DontForgetTheDivy", "updated": "2026-06-01T14:23:07+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tta550/no_more_sunday_scaries/op4su9h/", "content": "Thanks! I'm expecting a some bump up in fun spending at the start if markets continue to perform well." }, { "id": "t1_op5bajk", "author": "/u/Haunting_Demand_5114", "updated": "2026-06-01T15:47:38+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tta550/no_more_sunday_scaries/op5bajk/", "content": "Congratulations and GFY!" }, { "id": "t1_op8ozdy", "author": "/u/cfi-2025", "updated": "2026-06-02T02:06:44+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tta550/no_more_sunday_scaries/op8ozdy/", "content": "When I was working, Sunday Scaries were the worst, I'd start getting that existential dread feeling in the late afternoon and would have a pit in my stomach by bedtime.\n Not having those stupid emotions on that stupid day has been one of the best things about RE. A full year and a half later and it's still something I think about and appreciate almost every day.\n Enjoy your retirement, my man!" }, { "id": "t1_op8u86d", "author": "/u/DontForgetTheDivy", "updated": "2026-06-02T02:38:48+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tta550/no_more_sunday_scaries/op8u86d/", "content": "Thank you!" }, { "id": "t1_op98psl", "author": "/u/SunshineInTheWindow", "updated": "2026-06-02T04:14:44+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tta550/no_more_sunday_scaries/op98psl/", "content": "Congratulations!! Best wishes for a wonderful healing summer filled with loads of time to take care of yourself, enjoy your hobbies, and to plan your celebratory adventure!" }, { "id": "t1_op9en6h", "author": "/u/DontForgetTheDivy", "updated": "2026-06-02T04:57:54+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tta550/no_more_sunday_scaries/op9en6h/", "content": "Well said and exactly my plan. Thank you." }, { "id": "t1_opazce1", "author": "/u/malkyfreo", "updated": "2026-06-02T12:17:47+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tta550/no_more_sunday_scaries/opazce1/", "content": "im 2 years your junior. i will be retiring in 2 years time ! thanks for the inspiration." }, { "id": "t1_opfczsq", "author": "/u/DontForgetTheDivy", "updated": "2026-06-03T00:51:39+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tta550/no_more_sunday_scaries/opfczsq/", "content": "Just 2 days in but very happy. I recommend." }, { "id": "t1_opbfrv5", "author": "/u/Vicuna00", "updated": "2026-06-02T13:43:51+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tta550/no_more_sunday_scaries/opbfrv5/", "content": "congrats on all the hard work to get you here...and conviction to pull the trigger. would have been "easier" in our culture to keep working\n what's your plan day-to-day?" }, { "id": "t1_opfdc1s", "author": "/u/DontForgetTheDivy", "updated": "2026-06-03T00:53:34+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tta550/no_more_sunday_scaries/opfdc1s/", "content": "For now I am just relaxing and learning to take things slow and easy. Lots of small projects around the house. My investing group and veggie garden are keeping me busy for now. Once settled in a bit, start planning a trip." }, { "id": "t1_opbvbw4", "author": "/u/Full_Push_508", "updated": "2026-06-02T14:56:37+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tta550/no_more_sunday_scaries/opbvbw4/", "content": "5.5k monthly spend. 👏 God bless you brother." }, { "id": "t1_opfdfc3", "author": "/u/DontForgetTheDivy", "updated": "2026-06-03T00:54:04+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tta550/no_more_sunday_scaries/opfdfc3/", "content": "IDK, I'm a simply guy I guess." }, { "id": "t1_opctwk1", "author": "/u/Opposite-Lake-9679", "updated": "2026-06-02T17:27:59+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tta550/no_more_sunday_scaries/opctwk1/", "content": "I love your story! 🥰" }, { "id": "t1_opfdhhy", "author": "/u/DontForgetTheDivy", "updated": "2026-06-03T00:54:24+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tta550/no_more_sunday_scaries/opfdhhy/", "content": "Thanks. Glad it was well received." }, { "id": "t1_opcwaqs", "author": "/u/AdAgile9604", "updated": "2026-06-02T17:38:17+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tta550/no_more_sunday_scaries/opcwaqs/", "content": "I love these stories !! All the best" }, { "id": "t1_opfdkcp", "author": "/u/DontForgetTheDivy", "updated": "2026-06-03T00:54:52+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tta550/no_more_sunday_scaries/opfdkcp/", "content": "Thank you. Happy folks enjoyed it." }, { "id": "t1_op1eq79", "author": "/u/OvertureApeture", "updated": "2026-06-01T00:13:57+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tta550/no_more_sunday_scaries/op1eq79/", "content": "What was your income range over your career?" }, { "id": "t1_op1f6do", "author": "/u/DontForgetTheDivy", "updated": "2026-06-01T00:16:40+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tta550/no_more_sunday_scaries/op1f6do/", "content": "My first big pay was 65K in 2000. At least I thought that was big pay back then. And my salary for this year was coincidentally right around 165K." }, { "id": "t1_op1gz31", "author": "/u/OvertureApeture", "updated": "2026-06-01T00:27:39+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tta550/no_more_sunday_scaries/op1gz31/", "content": "Interesting. I am in a similar situation but a little behind you asset-wise. I didn’t invest a lot outside of 401k for a long time. Anywho, back to work for me tomorrow…" }, { "id": "t1_op1mtzn", "author": "/u/DontForgetTheDivy", "updated": "2026-06-01T01:03:45+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tta550/no_more_sunday_scaries/op1mtzn/", "content": "stay strong! there is a light at the end of that tunnel. I know it, I just got here." }, { "id": "t1_op6wzog", "author": "/u/PFflyer86", "updated": "2026-06-01T20:21:47+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tta550/no_more_sunday_scaries/op6wzog/", "content": "Can someone explain how everyone can be congratulating this person while a week ago someone with 2.5 mil at 40 years old on here was overwhelmingly told they need to work until they are 55" }, { "id": "t1_op76pt2", "author": "/u/DontForgetTheDivy", "updated": "2026-06-01T21:06:24+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tta550/no_more_sunday_scaries/op76pt2/", "content": "Were they also single no children with a nearly paid off house and 60K year spend?" }, { "id": "t1_op7qg17", "author": "/u/DeadFacesInMyPocket", "updated": "2026-06-01T22:46:44+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tta550/no_more_sunday_scaries/op7qg17/", "content": "Did you buy a Purple Boys mattress?!?!" }, { "id": "t1_op7vb5x", "author": "/u/DontForgetTheDivy", "updated": "2026-06-01T23:13:22+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tta550/no_more_sunday_scaries/op7vb5x/", "content": "HA!" }, { "id": "t1_op7yvio", "author": "/u/DeadFacesInMyPocket", "updated": "2026-06-01T23:33:09+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tta550/no_more_sunday_scaries/op7yvio/", "content": "Glad I gave you a laugh!\n Hopefully the reference lands for some people!!\n They did a couple videos fairly recently of them rewatching their own past shows and they were just cracking up, it was just great. Search for the channel Authenticity.\n Pretty sure this is the video with The Purple Boys: https://youtu.be/pxsXbfKoPoI\n There are other montages though too on that channel. I have had a hell of a Monday so enjoy it for me please! 😆" } ] }, { "source": "r/Fire hot", "id": "t3_1tu2g9t", "title": "Boldin for Retirement - Anyone try their planning? Any other better options?", "author": "/u/Krish_1234", "updated": "2026-06-01T19:10:10+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu2g9t/boldin_for_retirement_anyone_try_their_planning/", "content": "I wanted to try Boldin and wondering if anyone gave it a try and run simulations?\n I might try the 14 day free trial and if i like will do a month to month for a few months.\n Wondering if this is better or other better options out here?\n submitted by /u/Krish_1234\n [link] [comments]", "contentHtml": "

I wanted to try Boldin and wondering if anyone gave it a try and run simulations?

I might try the 14 day free trial and if i like will do a month to month for a few months.

Wondering if this is better or other better options out here?

submitted by /u/Krish_1234
[link] [comments]", "comments": [ { "id": "t1_op6i357", "author": "/u/mygirltien", "updated": "2026-06-01T19:12:34+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu2g9t/boldin_for_retirement_anyone_try_their_planning/op6i357/", "content": "Boldin is fine i prefer projectionlab" }, { "id": "t1_op6ijko", "author": "/u/SensitiveWall2215", "updated": "2026-06-01T19:15:03+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu2g9t/boldin_for_retirement_anyone_try_their_planning/op6ijko/", "content": "ProjectionLab is pretty solid choice, been using it for like 6 months now and the interface feels more intuitive than most others. The Monte Carlo simulations are decent and you can tweak variables pretty easily without getting lost in menus" }, { "id": "t1_op6isnn", "author": "/u/AlwaysSaturday12", "updated": "2026-06-01T19:16:23+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu2g9t/boldin_for_retirement_anyone_try_their_planning/op6isnn/", "content": "I also prefer projectionlab." }, { "id": "t1_op6vw4t", "author": "/u/Venum555", "updated": "2026-06-01T20:16:50+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu2g9t/boldin_for_retirement_anyone_try_their_planning/op6vw4t/", "content": "Love the Roth Conversion optimizer they added." }, { "id": "t1_op6wsjo", "author": "/u/mygirltien", "updated": "2026-06-01T20:20:54+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu2g9t/boldin_for_retirement_anyone_try_their_planning/op6wsjo/", "content": "They added allot recently. Constantly updating and improving and the core reason i love the product." }, { "id": "t1_op8uoon", "author": "/u/workacct22", "updated": "2026-06-02T02:41:39+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu2g9t/boldin_for_retirement_anyone_try_their_planning/op8uoon/", "content": "I gave Boldin a try after using PL for a while. Boldin seems like it’s trying to be more user friendly while just feeling clunkier. The advisor ads on the paid version are pretty tacky too." }, { "id": "t1_op7dow6", "author": "/u/db11242", "updated": "2026-06-01T21:40:05+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu2g9t/boldin_for_retirement_anyone_try_their_planning/op7dow6/", "content": "Projection lab is better for people that want to dig into the details. It also provides a way to back test historically and using his historical boot strap, which in many ways is better than a purely statistical Monte Carlo approach. Also projection lab lets you look at the individual success and failure results, which can be helpful because not every failure is as bad as you may think (i.e. failure a year or two before your plan was expected to end is very different than a failure 10 years into your retirement). Projection lab is a little bit more difficult to get set up initially, but I think it’s well worth it. Best of luck." }, { "id": "t1_opb6di3", "author": "/u/Harmonic-Hyena", "updated": "2026-06-02T12:56:31+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu2g9t/boldin_for_retirement_anyone_try_their_planning/opb6di3/", "content": "There are YouTube videos comparing the various tools. I recommend watching those to see see which feels like the best fit. Boldin is best for me but I still have gripes. I would just have more gripes with others.\n A number of people also entered the same numbers into the various tools and found Boldins projections to be in the middle. That means a lot to me. I don't want something that is overly optimistic or pessimistic." }, { "id": "t1_op6v2gz", "author": "/u/Flat-Barracuda1268", "updated": "2026-06-01T20:13:08+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu2g9t/boldin_for_retirement_anyone_try_their_planning/op6v2gz/", "content": "Used and paid for a full year of Boldin. It seemed fairly easy to set up but running scenarios was cumbersome and there were "under the hood" assumptions that I wish they would explain. I ended up cancelling the subscription.\n Using Right Capital right now through a famous YouTube channel. It works better IMO and said YouTuber has tons of videos that show how to run various scenarios. I think it's a better tool. There was an initial cost and I think right now it costs me $30/yr. It's worth every penny.\n I have not played with ProjectionLab but it gets positive reviews." }, { "id": "t1_op6xoic", "author": "/u/Krish_1234", "updated": "2026-06-01T20:24:55+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu2g9t/boldin_for_retirement_anyone_try_their_planning/op6xoic/", "content": "Can I dm you for that YouTube link?" }, { "id": "t1_op70c92", "author": "/u/Flat-Barracuda1268", "updated": "2026-06-01T20:36:58+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu2g9t/boldin_for_retirement_anyone_try_their_planning/op70c92/", "content": "I'll just share it here. Ari Taublieb/Root Financial.\n The pricing model has changed. They used to have a lifetime subscription for $299. Right Capital changed something so now it's $30/yr plus I assume some kind of initial fee. Maybe someone who has signed up more recently can chime in on it." }, { "id": "t1_op8ecm4", "author": "/u/AGrimmInPortland", "updated": "2026-06-02T01:03:03+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu2g9t/boldin_for_retirement_anyone_try_their_planning/op8ecm4/", "content": "Their web page shows basic at $150 per year. Are we talking about the same thing? https://www.rightcapital.com/pricing/" }, { "id": "t1_opceww5", "author": "/u/Connect_Badger_6919", "updated": "2026-06-02T16:22:44+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu2g9t/boldin_for_retirement_anyone_try_their_planning/opceww5/", "content": "It says $149 per advisor per month - not per year unless I’m missing something" }, { "id": "t1_opdjc0i", "author": "/u/Flat-Barracuda1268", "updated": "2026-06-02T19:19:24+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu2g9t/boldin_for_retirement_anyone_try_their_planning/opdjc0i/", "content": "https://ari-taublieb.mykajabi.com/early-retirement-academy\n Looks like 399 lifetime now." }, { "id": "t1_op8v1eu", "author": "/u/Krish_1234", "updated": "2026-06-02T02:43:51+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu2g9t/boldin_for_retirement_anyone_try_their_planning/op8v1eu/", "content": "I cant seem to find the referrel for 30/yr or the right capital link going thru Ari Taublieb... is it root or right capital as another poster said?" }, { "id": "t1_op6x4rt", "author": "/u/TrashPanda_924", "updated": "2026-06-01T20:22:26+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu2g9t/boldin_for_retirement_anyone_try_their_planning/op6x4rt/", "content": "I use Boldin and like it pretty well." }, { "id": "t1_op6ne9n", "author": "/u/RightYouAreKen1", "updated": "2026-06-01T19:38:21+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu2g9t/boldin_for_retirement_anyone_try_their_planning/op6ne9n/", "content": "I've used Boldin the past 6 months and like it quite a bit. I haven't tried any other options yet." }, { "id": "t1_op7fcdx", "author": "/u/Total_Discount_8395", "updated": "2026-06-01T21:48:18+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu2g9t/boldin_for_retirement_anyone_try_their_planning/op7fcdx/", "content": "I've used both Boldin and ProjectionLab and prefer the latter." }, { "id": "t1_op8e0at", "author": "/u/AGrimmInPortland", "updated": "2026-06-02T01:01:02+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu2g9t/boldin_for_retirement_anyone_try_their_planning/op8e0at/", "content": "Lots of coaching/videos/built in AI: Boldin\n Power user/max control of things like milestones: ProjectionLab\n Ease of use/optimizers/what-ifs/external AI review: Retirement Figures" }, { "id": "t1_op8r7bj", "author": "", "updated": "2026-06-02T02:20:10+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu2g9t/boldin_for_retirement_anyone_try_their_planning/op8r7bj/", "content": "[deleted]" }, { "id": "t1_op8ugcr", "author": "/u/Zphr", "updated": "2026-06-02T02:40:12+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu2g9t/boldin_for_retirement_anyone_try_their_planning/op8ugcr/", "content": "Rule 2/No Self-Promo/Spam - No self-promotion or spam. Please see our rules ( https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/about/rules/ ) and reach out via modmail if you have any questions or concerns." }, { "id": "t1_opc7qcq", "author": "/u/Jonas42", "updated": "2026-06-02T15:51:24+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu2g9t/boldin_for_retirement_anyone_try_their_planning/opc7qcq/", "content": "I tried the trial. It's fine, but didn't offer anything that I couldn't accomplish with more precision in spreadsheets where I can actually inspect and modify all the different assumptions.\n The one thing they have that I don't already have in spreadsheet form is the Roth Conversion optimizer, but in my case the numbers it spit out didn't even make sense." }, { "id": "t1_opd2hp3", "author": "/u/themrmeeseeks13", "updated": "2026-06-02T18:04:58+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tu2g9t/boldin_for_retirement_anyone_try_their_planning/opd2hp3/", "content": "Pralana is top notch if you want the most detailed retirment planning tool there is. In addition to standard monte carlo simulations or historical backtesting it can run simulations to optimize: social security dates, your withdrawl priorities, roth conversations, & model various spending strategies, etc." } ] }, { "source": "r/Fire top month", "id": "t3_1tacr2d", "title": "PSA: This is the internet and people lie", "author": "/u/Thomas_Foolery_", "updated": "2026-05-11T18:55:44+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tacr2d/psa_this_is_the_internet_and_people_lie/", "content": "I don’t come on here often but the last few days I saw posts of people in their 20s and 30s claiming a million + net worth then when you go to their profile their history doesn’t line up with their story at all. I’ve found 3 of these just over the weekend.\n Just a friendly reminder that you shouldn’t measure your progress by other people’s stats, especially when they aren’t verifiable and people lie all the time.\n submitted by /u/Thomas_Foolery_\n [link] [comments]", "contentHtml": "

I don’t come on here often but the last few days I saw posts of people in their 20s and 30s claiming a million + net worth then when you go to their profile their history doesn’t line up with their story at all. I’ve found 3 of these just over the weekend.

Just a friendly reminder that you shouldn’t measure your progress by other people’s stats, especially when they aren’t verifiable and people lie all the time.

submitted by /u/Thomas_Foolery_
[link] [comments]", "comments": [ { "id": "t1_ol8yn63", "author": "/u/Zphr", "updated": "2026-05-11T20:39:28+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tacr2d/psa_this_is_the_internet_and_people_lie/ol8yn63/", "content": "Please feel free to report such folks to us via the reporting function or modmail. We ban fictional writers under the no spam rule." }, { "id": "t1_ol8dsyy", "author": "/u/themiracy", "updated": "2026-05-11T19:03:50+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tacr2d/psa_this_is_the_internet_and_people_lie/ol8dsyy/", "content": "Coast FIRE, Barista FIRE, LARP FIRE …\n Edit: oh how did I forget my personal favorite, Liar, Liar, Pants on FIRE" }, { "id": "t1_ol8fqe2", "author": "/u/3lfg1rl", "updated": "2026-05-11T19:12:44+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tacr2d/psa_this_is_the_internet_and_people_lie/ol8fqe2/", "content": "I... Is there a larpfire sub? I'd read it, lol!" }, { "id": "t1_ol8kgym", "author": "/u/The-Fox-Says", "updated": "2026-05-11T19:34:38+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tacr2d/psa_this_is_the_internet_and_people_lie/ol8kgym/", "content": "/r/fijerk" }, { "id": "t1_olaz4oa", "author": "/u/NobodyImportant13", "updated": "2026-05-12T03:24:57+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tacr2d/psa_this_is_the_internet_and_people_lie/olaz4oa/", "content": "lmao thank you." }, { "id": "t1_ol8j0nj", "author": "/u/zero000", "updated": "2026-05-11T19:27:53+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tacr2d/psa_this_is_the_internet_and_people_lie/ol8j0nj/", "content": "R/fatfire" }, { "id": "t1_ol8vlru", "author": "", "updated": "2026-05-11T20:25:38+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tacr2d/psa_this_is_the_internet_and_people_lie/ol8vlru/", "content": "[deleted]" }, { "id": "t1_ol90w2y", "author": "/u/Confident_Bridge_382", "updated": "2026-05-11T20:49:52+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tacr2d/psa_this_is_the_internet_and_people_lie/ol90w2y/", "content": "lol the research it took to uncover this!" }, { "id": "t1_olaukbm", "author": "/u/Ark3nfel", "updated": "2026-05-12T02:55:32+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tacr2d/psa_this_is_the_internet_and_people_lie/olaukbm/", "content": "Only people who are FIRE could have the free time to do that kind of research." }, { "id": "t1_olajte9", "author": "/u/Armadillolz", "updated": "2026-05-12T01:51:43+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tacr2d/psa_this_is_the_internet_and_people_lie/olajte9/", "content": "And what the hell is the motive??" }, { "id": "t1_ol97smv", "author": "/u/Pattison320", "updated": "2026-05-11T21:22:46+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tacr2d/psa_this_is_the_internet_and_people_lie/ol97smv/", "content": "TBH I think the Henry sub is more accurate." }, { "id": "t1_ola0qwt", "author": "/u/Mitana301", "updated": "2026-05-12T00:00:59+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tacr2d/psa_this_is_the_internet_and_people_lie/ola0qwt/", "content": "That sub slaps. There's a lot of super helpful info, especially if you're like 30ish and didn't come from money." }, { "id": "t1_olb9d34", "author": "/u/Pattison320", "updated": "2026-05-12T04:36:28+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tacr2d/psa_this_is_the_internet_and_people_lie/olb9d34/", "content": "My take on that sub is that most of those people will never be rich. Because you can't earn your way out of bad spending habits." }, { "id": "t1_ol8hiwn", "author": "/u/Wild_Butterscotch482", "updated": "2026-05-11T19:20:58+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tacr2d/psa_this_is_the_internet_and_people_lie/ol8hiwn/", "content": "My mind went to the minced meat/mint/chili/cilantro dish that my Laotian mother-in-law makes. It is indeed fire, but not as fire as her papaya salad." }, { "id": "t1_ol8ofor", "author": "/u/thrax_mador", "updated": "2026-05-11T19:52:54+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tacr2d/psa_this_is_the_internet_and_people_lie/ol8ofor/", "content": "Larb? Shit is so good. I didn't know it was Laotian. I used to get it at a Thai place near my apartment in DC and it was so freaking flavorful. Easy to scarf down and over indulge since it's minced." }, { "id": "t1_ol92mqt", "author": "/u/-shrug-", "updated": "2026-05-11T20:58:01+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tacr2d/psa_this_is_the_internet_and_people_lie/ol92mqt/", "content": "Fun fact, a lot of Thai restaurants were opened by Laotian people because Americans knew what 'Thai' meant. https://thephiladelphiacitizen.org/foodizen-identity-reclaimed/" }, { "id": "t1_ol9rz56", "author": "/u/rycelover", "updated": "2026-05-11T23:10:47+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tacr2d/psa_this_is_the_internet_and_people_lie/ol9rz56/", "content": "Som tam!" }, { "id": "t1_olcxbq3", "author": "/u/ktessa", "updated": "2026-05-12T12:22:12+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tacr2d/psa_this_is_the_internet_and_people_lie/olcxbq3/", "content": "Excuse you, it's dum muak hoong and I will die here. Agree with the "!" tho 🙂." }, { "id": "t1_ol8mkk3", "author": "/u/PersonablePine", "updated": "2026-05-11T19:44:23+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tacr2d/psa_this_is_the_internet_and_people_lie/ol8mkk3/", "content": ".... Recipe, please?" }, { "id": "t1_ol8m8ng", "author": "/u/Lahm0123", "updated": "2026-05-11T19:42:52+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tacr2d/psa_this_is_the_internet_and_people_lie/ol8m8ng/", "content": "Yum!" }, { "id": "t1_ol92d30", "author": "/u/BigAccess3133", "updated": "2026-05-11T20:56:45+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tacr2d/psa_this_is_the_internet_and_people_lie/ol92d30/", "content": "Recipe(s) please!!" }, { "id": "t1_olb6tvn", "author": "/u/KindRepresentative17", "updated": "2026-05-12T04:18:07+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tacr2d/psa_this_is_the_internet_and_people_lie/olb6tvn/", "content": "Laotian…what ocean ?" }, { "id": "t1_ol8pknc", "author": "/u/Distinct-Sky", "updated": "2026-05-11T19:58:06+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tacr2d/psa_this_is_the_internet_and_people_lie/ol8pknc/", "content": "How about LiarFIRE, lol." }, { "id": "t1_ol95gmt", "author": "/u/Frosty_Yesterday_674", "updated": "2026-05-11T21:11:30+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tacr2d/psa_this_is_the_internet_and_people_lie/ol95gmt/", "content": "LiarLiarPantsOnFIRE" }, { "id": "t1_ol8ykn0", "author": "/u/Stand-back-up", "updated": "2026-05-11T20:39:09+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tacr2d/psa_this_is_the_internet_and_people_lie/ol8ykn0/", "content": "The crazy thing is the amount of people using ai to larp being an expert… about anything. Edit: spelling" }, { "id": "t1_ol9et95", "author": "/u/ibelieveyouwood", "updated": "2026-05-11T21:58:03+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tacr2d/psa_this_is_the_internet_and_people_lie/ol9et95/", "content": "I hate this so much about the internet.\n Sometimes, people post true things but someone comes into the thread with "the vibes are off" and OP spends the next hour fighting off demands for blood tests and forensics, cross referenced against every bit of post history anyone can dig up before deleting it and realizing even strangers on the internet don't care about them.\n Sometimes, people post the vaguest crap but the vibe police are on a donut break so a weak story takes off and you look crazy for pointing out that 2 months ago this guy was working the cart return at a grocery but now he's an heir and an app developer and possibly a Broadway director." }, { "id": "t1_oldprov", "author": "/u/Redwolfdc", "updated": "2026-05-12T14:43:32+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tacr2d/psa_this_is_the_internet_and_people_lie/oldprov/", "content": "I’m convinced like half the posts on r/fatfire are bullshit." }, { "id": "t1_ol9q2rl", "author": "/u/SJBraga", "updated": "2026-05-11T23:00:03+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tacr2d/psa_this_is_the_internet_and_people_lie/ol9q2rl/", "content": "The only thing they're gonna get is backFIRE(d)" }, { "id": "t1_olcuh6p", "author": "/u/Baskema", "updated": "2026-05-12T12:05:56+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tacr2d/psa_this_is_the_internet_and_people_lie/olcuh6p/", "content": "LARP FIRE lmaooooo!!!! Yeah I’ve been noticing this a bunch too hahahaa" }, { "id": "t1_oldba9n", "author": "/u/Negative-Dingo3335", "updated": "2026-05-12T13:35:16+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tacr2d/psa_this_is_the_internet_and_people_lie/oldba9n/", "content": "And Dumpster FIRE" }, { "id": "t1_ol9toth", "author": "/u/skookumme", "updated": "2026-05-11T23:20:30+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tacr2d/psa_this_is_the_internet_and_people_lie/ol9toth/", "content": "🏆" }, { "id": "t1_ol9w2rh", "author": "/u/_PantsOnFire_", "updated": "2026-05-11T23:34:05+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tacr2d/psa_this_is_the_internet_and_people_lie/ol9w2rh/", "content": "Hey, I resemble that remark! :)" }, { "id": "t1_ola06ac", "author": "/u/kw_rc", "updated": "2026-05-11T23:57:39+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tacr2d/psa_this_is_the_internet_and_people_lie/ola06ac/", "content": "OMG…this is the best response 🤣!" }, { "id": "t1_olab9rk", "author": "/u/seichoux", "updated": "2026-05-12T01:02:19+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tacr2d/psa_this_is_the_internet_and_people_lie/olab9rk/", "content": "Lakers in 5 ✋🏽" }, { "id": "t1_olajd4g", "author": "/u/BeatDense9049", "updated": "2026-05-12T01:49:09+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tacr2d/psa_this_is_the_internet_and_people_lie/olajd4g/", "content": "Also a few million is pocket change these days compared to even 10 years ago. Cool buy a 1400sf starter home in a decent area!!!!!!!" }, { "id": "t1_olawmzx", "author": "/u/wolfganggartner5", "updated": "2026-05-12T03:08:39+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tacr2d/psa_this_is_the_internet_and_people_lie/olawmzx/", "content": "What kind of stick launch would like" }, { "id": "t1_olayar1", "author": "/u/apacgainz", "updated": "2026-05-12T03:19:30+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tacr2d/psa_this_is_the_internet_and_people_lie/olayar1/", "content": "There's also Daddy Money Fire, the most despicable one when not disclosed" }, { "id": "t1_olbxj1z", "author": "/u/Ucanthandlelit", "updated": "2026-05-12T07:51:39+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tacr2d/psa_this_is_the_internet_and_people_lie/olbxj1z/", "content": "Damn I lol’d it’s midnight" }, { "id": "t1_ol8d34p", "author": "/u/Cucumberappleblizz", "updated": "2026-05-11T19:00:33+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tacr2d/psa_this_is_the_internet_and_people_lie/ol8d34p/", "content": "I’m a teacher, and I have heard my 9th graders talk about posting here and the personal finance and investing subs trolling or giving their “advice.”" }, { "id": "t1_ol8du6h", "author": "/u/funklab", "updated": "2026-05-11T19:03:59+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tacr2d/psa_this_is_the_internet_and_people_lie/ol8du6h/", "content": "I work a lot with homeless people and drug users. One guy who lives in a tent under a bridge and smokes crack and fentanyl all day long until he gets psychotic told me that he spends most of his day maintaining 5 different Facebook groups and moderating forums on self help, religion and mental health.\n It helps me to picture that person on the other side of the keyboard if I feel the temptation to argue with someone online." }, { "id": "t1_ol8f1u4", "author": "/u/ParadoxPath", "updated": "2026-05-11T19:09:36+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tacr2d/psa_this_is_the_internet_and_people_lie/ol8f1u4/", "content": "Imagine how bad he’d be doing without moderating those groups" }, { "id": "t1_ol8fogt", "author": "/u/funklab", "updated": "2026-05-11T19:12:29+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tacr2d/psa_this_is_the_internet_and_people_lie/ol8fogt/", "content": "You gotta have a purpose. If even you’re a psychotic homeless drug addict." }, { "id": "t1_ol8hbqn", "author": "/u/Macklemonster", "updated": "2026-05-11T19:20:03+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tacr2d/psa_this_is_the_internet_and_people_lie/ol8hbqn/", "content": "Imagine how bad those groups would be doing without him moderating them!" }, { "id": "t1_ol95zy8", "author": "/u/Short-Signature5710", "updated": "2026-05-11T21:14:06+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tacr2d/psa_this_is_the_internet_and_people_lie/ol95zy8/", "content": "😅😅😅" }, { "id": "t1_ol8jwdr", "author": "/u/Available_Editor4383", "updated": "2026-05-11T19:31:58+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tacr2d/psa_this_is_the_internet_and_people_lie/ol8jwdr/", "content": "I call BS. Mods don’t spend time outside, Facebook or otherwise." }, { "id": "t1_ol8ojv7", "author": "/u/funklab", "updated": "2026-05-11T19:53:26+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tacr2d/psa_this_is_the_internet_and_people_lie/ol8ojv7/", "content": "That’s a good call. He was probably a liar." }, { "id": "t1_ol9c6k5", "author": "/u/agent_flounder", "updated": "2026-05-11T21:44:39+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tacr2d/psa_this_is_the_internet_and_people_lie/ol9c6k5/", "content": "At this point I don't believe anyone.\n Or do I.....? 🤔" }, { "id": "t1_ol8gl53", "author": "/u/this_is_poorly_done", "updated": "2026-05-11T19:16:39+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tacr2d/psa_this_is_the_internet_and_people_lie/ol8gl53/", "content": "I once knew a guy who would ride his duct taped together bike to the local shopping mall to pay his pre-paid cell phone plan despite being a personal attorney to Bill Gates. He had flown on Bill's private plane just a month prior to see a Yeezy (when Yeezy was still big) concert in Milan with a definitely way too young for him employee at a store across the food court. And later that month he was actually going to help Yeezy finalize the paperwork on his next record deal cause the guy was just that good at business.\n It was very humbling to see a guy of that status living so modestly and being so generous to introduce people to his network of high rollers. /S" }, { "id": "t1_ol8w9ym", "author": "/u/EANx_Diver", "updated": "2026-05-11T20:28:41+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tacr2d/psa_this_is_the_internet_and_people_lie/ol8w9ym/", "content": "I'm sure we've all seen subs where a homeless guy, psychotic on fentanyl, would be a step up compared to the mods they did have." }, { "id": "t1_ol8lqdk", "author": "/u/TraderFire89", "updated": "2026-05-11T19:40:31+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tacr2d/psa_this_is_the_internet_and_people_lie/ol8lqdk/", "content": "if somebody is that big posting / lurking on reddit, they have too much free time and likely don't have the life you think they have" }, { "id": "t1_ol8xt66", "author": "/u/YK5Djvx2Mh", "updated": "2026-05-11T20:35:41+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tacr2d/psa_this_is_the_internet_and_people_lie/ol8xt66/", "content": "Im going to assume you are a homeless crack addict and ignore your anecdote." }, { "id": "t1_ol90cco", "author": "/u/funklab", "updated": "2026-05-11T20:47:20+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tacr2d/psa_this_is_the_internet_and_people_lie/ol90cco/", "content": "Safe assumption. I never said the person wasn’t me!" }, { "id": "t1_ol8nyye", "author": "/u/PorcupineWarriorGod", "updated": "2026-05-11T19:50:48+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tacr2d/psa_this_is_the_internet_and_people_lie/ol8nyye/", "content": "I wish I could upvote this more than once. This post should be mandatory reading for anyone who signs up for a reddit (or any other social media, for that matter) account on day one, before thy receive posting rights." }, { "id": "t1_olaodqs", "author": "/u/Bruceshadow", "updated": "2026-05-12T02:18:21+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tacr2d/psa_this_is_the_internet_and_people_lie/olaodqs/", "content": "but is he actually trying to help or just trolling?" }, { "id": "t1_olb0j9x", "author": "/u/Flat_Art_734", "updated": "2026-05-12T03:34:20+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tacr2d/psa_this_is_the_internet_and_people_lie/olb0j9x/", "content": "This should be a sticky on Reddit's main page" }, { "id": "t1_olbfszs", "author": "/u/blackrack", "updated": "2026-05-12T05:24:02+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tacr2d/psa_this_is_the_internet_and_people_lie/olbfszs/", "content": "Somehow my intuition about redditors is validated" }, { "id": "t1_olcdvi8", "author": "/u/NC_JBL", "updated": "2026-05-12T10:14:28+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tacr2d/psa_this_is_the_internet_and_people_lie/olcdvi8/", "content": "lolol.. idk why, but that cracked me up. I’m going to remember this." }, { "id": "t1_old41kc", "author": "/u/ButteredPizza69420", "updated": "2026-05-12T12:58:33+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tacr2d/psa_this_is_the_internet_and_people_lie/old41kc/", "content": "This is so true though! I have met people that legitimately do not work and are chronically online all day leeching off of others." }, { "id": "t1_oldupzy", "author": "/u/funklab", "updated": "2026-05-12T15:05:25+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tacr2d/psa_this_is_the_internet_and_people_lie/oldupzy/", "content": "Statistically it’s probably more likely these are the people we’re interacting with online. Maybe even you and me!\n Well not me. I’m just on break at my very important job as the only veterinarian neurosurgeon on the super secret Mars colony. Shhh don’t tell anyone." }, { "id": "t1_oldonus", "author": "/u/Redwolfdc", "updated": "2026-05-12T14:38:29+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tacr2d/psa_this_is_the_internet_and_people_lie/oldonus/", "content": "Yeah it’s wild these days you have no idea who is giving advice." }, { "id": "t1_oldwfqc", "author": "/u/OpenBorders69", "updated": "2026-05-12T15:13:10+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tacr2d/psa_this_is_the_internet_and_people_lie/oldwfqc/", "content": "I now understand the reason why so many terminally online people are anti-capitalist 😂" }, { "id": "t1_olf8mij", "author": "/u/funklab", "updated": "2026-05-12T18:45:53+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tacr2d/psa_this_is_the_internet_and_people_lie/olf8mij/", "content": "To paraphrase the dock workers union from the Wire “capitalism sucks”. “Yeah, if you ain’t got any capital!”" }, { "id": "t1_omv4u5n", "author": "/u/tenderheart35", "updated": "2026-05-20T13:48:36+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tacr2d/psa_this_is_the_internet_and_people_lie/omv4u5n/", "content": "Yeah, never underestimate people who have unlimited time and a phone. I’ve learned this over the pandemic, lol" }, { "id": "t1_ol8fnos", "author": "/u/Think_Score_651", "updated": "2026-05-11T19:12:23+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tacr2d/psa_this_is_the_internet_and_people_lie/ol8fnos/", "content": "Also a teacher, and I’ve definitely heard male students talk about trolling in investing and those am I the asshole subs. I just try to remember that the 14 year old who can barely write a sentence might be giving me their opinion whenever I make a post." }, { "id": "t1_ol8jx7a", "author": "/u/ditchdiggergirl", "updated": "2026-05-11T19:32:04+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tacr2d/psa_this_is_the_internet_and_people_lie/ol8jx7a/", "content": "At least they’re getting creative writing practice that may help compensate for that homework assignment you can’t prove they plagiarized." }, { "id": "t1_olb5khz", "author": "/u/aphel_ion", "updated": "2026-05-12T04:09:11+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tacr2d/psa_this_is_the_internet_and_people_lie/olb5khz/", "content": "Best way to get them to stop posting fake Reddit stories, tell them to do it as a creative writing assignment. They’ll find a way to avoid doing it" }, { "id": "t1_olxtwhg", "author": "/u/Think_Score_651", "updated": "2026-05-15T12:37:36+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tacr2d/psa_this_is_the_internet_and_people_lie/olxtwhg/", "content": "Ha this is spot on" }, { "id": "t1_ol9me10", "author": "/u/ThePermMustWait", "updated": "2026-05-11T22:39:27+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tacr2d/psa_this_is_the_internet_and_people_lie/ol9me10/", "content": "Have you looked at the daily thread on wsb? It looks like it’s filled with 13-17 year olds." }, { "id": "t1_olb5t2p", "author": "/u/aphel_ion", "updated": "2026-05-12T04:10:53+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tacr2d/psa_this_is_the_internet_and_people_lie/olb5t2p/", "content": "Yeah sometimes I wonder if there’s just a bunch of kids who have figured out they can get AI to create fake portfolio screenshots for them" }, { "id": "t1_omv5cet", "author": "/u/tenderheart35", "updated": "2026-05-20T13:51:05+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tacr2d/psa_this_is_the_internet_and_people_lie/omv5cet/", "content": "It’s basically their version of 4chan at this point." }, { "id": "t1_ol8xciv", "author": "/u/OttoMannkusser", "updated": "2026-05-11T20:33:37+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tacr2d/psa_this_is_the_internet_and_people_lie/ol8xciv/", "content": "That's just what a 14 year old who can barely write a sentence would say" }, { "id": "t1_ol8dxfa", "author": "/u/Ok_Eggplant3677", "updated": "2026-05-11T19:04:23+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tacr2d/psa_this_is_the_internet_and_people_lie/ol8dxfa/", "content": "These are the people that say, “Your 5million is nothing. You need to keep working because one or two unforeseen bills could throw you into poverty.”" }, { "id": "t1_ol8ig2l", "author": "/u/Mail_Order_Lutefisk", "updated": "2026-05-11T19:25:15+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tacr2d/psa_this_is_the_internet_and_people_lie/ol8ig2l/", "content": "When I taught English in Japan 25 years ago one of the dudes I worked with was a guy who had made a million bucks by 30 and retired in the late 80’s because he was a millionaire when it meant something. He moved to Vietnam and lived for over a decade. He bought heavily into the DAQ too high and ended up moving to Tokyo in 2002 and teaching because he was running low on money. Super interesting and smart guy and all of his suits were like 80’s vintage from London. $5 million should be safe but I always think of that guy when I think about retiring early." }, { "id": "t1_olb0qja", "author": "/u/Flat_Art_734", "updated": "2026-05-12T03:35:40+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tacr2d/psa_this_is_the_internet_and_people_lie/olb0qja/", "content": "The unforseen bills: casino debt, child support, expensive divorce - completely random and unpredictable lol" }, { "id": "t1_olaolpi", "author": "/u/Bruceshadow", "updated": "2026-05-12T02:19:38+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tacr2d/psa_this_is_the_internet_and_people_lie/olaolpi/", "content": "5 million IS a nightmare.\n /r/GregFire" }, { "id": "t1_ol8lq82", "author": "/u/otherwise_________", "updated": "2026-05-11T19:40:30+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tacr2d/psa_this_is_the_internet_and_people_lie/ol8lq82/", "content": "The actual rich guys mostly post on teenager forums, so it all evens out." }, { "id": "t1_ol8ws5b", "author": "/u/Bennie-Factors", "updated": "2026-05-11T20:31:01+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tacr2d/psa_this_is_the_internet_and_people_lie/ol8ws5b/", "content": "So if we start posting in teen subs do we become rich? Or just broke creeps! Does it work the other way around?" }, { "id": "t1_on69w83", "author": "/u/Rads2010", "updated": "2026-05-22T02:26:44+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tacr2d/psa_this_is_the_internet_and_people_lie/on69w83/", "content": "I laughed at this, because I kinda do. I post a lot on Diablo 4, a video game which I'm addicted to." }, { "id": "t1_on6egiv", "author": "/u/otherwise_________", "updated": "2026-05-22T02:55:33+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tacr2d/psa_this_is_the_internet_and_people_lie/on6egiv/", "content": "By posting here you've already revealed yourself to be a teenager, so you get a pass." }, { "id": "t1_olb00lf", "author": "/u/NobodyImportant13", "updated": "2026-05-12T03:30:52+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tacr2d/psa_this_is_the_internet_and_people_lie/olb00lf/", "content": "Oh no." }, { "id": "t1_ollo8lp", "author": "/u/zinga_zing", "updated": "2026-05-13T17:09:40+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tacr2d/psa_this_is_the_internet_and_people_lie/ollo8lp/", "content": "Haha A+ comment." }, { "id": "t1_ol8dkc2", "author": "/u/Numerous-Cup1863", "updated": "2026-05-11T19:02:44+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tacr2d/psa_this_is_the_internet_and_people_lie/ol8dkc2/", "content": "Thier advice and two quarters barely gets you 50 cents." }, { "id": "t1_ol8dst3", "author": "/u/IHaveNeverLeftUtah", "updated": "2026-05-11T19:03:49+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tacr2d/psa_this_is_the_internet_and_people_lie/ol8dst3/", "content": "Is this meta? This itself seems like it’s made up." }, { "id": "t1_ol8em4k", "author": "/u/Cucumberappleblizz", "updated": "2026-05-11T19:07:35+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tacr2d/psa_this_is_the_internet_and_people_lie/ol8em4k/", "content": "I wish lol. Unfortunately trolling finance subs on Reddit, complaining about how their parents won’t let them gamble on sports, and talking about how rich they’ll get from crypto are activities my 9th and 12th grade boys love to talk about." }, { "id": "t1_olyoo1q", "author": "/u/Vicuna00", "updated": "2026-05-15T15:11:02+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tacr2d/psa_this_is_the_internet_and_people_lie/olyoo1q/", "content": "sheesh! wish you would post this info on every thread as a reminder." }, { "id": "t1_ol8jb4f", "author": "/u/ditchdiggergirl", "updated": "2026-05-11T19:29:13+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tacr2d/psa_this_is_the_internet_and_people_lie/ol8jb4f/", "content": "My kids are just recently out of their teens, and they are good responsible kids/young adults. I doubt either has ever trolled a personal finance sub. But I know for a fact they’ve done similar in their mid teens (different topics). One in particular, as part of a group of friends all posing as unrelated adults.\n And I’m quite certain that some of the posters here are children. Some are obvious to someone who has recently watched teens painfully/hilariously trying to act older than they really are, and not quite nail it. I don’t call that out, because reddit is full of kids and I assume everyone knows that. The kids themselves will mature in due time and not a minute before." }, { "id": "t1_olyoshv", "author": "/u/Vicuna00", "updated": "2026-05-15T15:11:37+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tacr2d/psa_this_is_the_internet_and_people_lie/olyoshv/", "content": "wow. i used to have fun playing kickball with my neighbors. what do they get out of this?!" }, { "id": "t1_omv5ufa", "author": "/u/tenderheart35", "updated": "2026-05-20T13:53:30+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tacr2d/psa_this_is_the_internet_and_people_lie/omv5ufa/", "content": "They do it to kill boredom. Typical kid stuff." }, { "id": "t1_ol940cd", "author": "/u/Colorful_Monk_3467", "updated": "2026-05-11T21:04:37+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tacr2d/psa_this_is_the_internet_and_people_lie/ol940cd/", "content": "It’s for sure real. Before Reddit was a thing I liked to go on Yahoo Answers as a young teenager and give people advice on things I knew little to nothing about. Even if it’s not malicious trolling, there’s a good chance the person (if they’re even real) is a child." }, { "id": "t1_olb3830", "author": "/u/thisgirlheidi", "updated": "2026-05-12T03:52:42+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tacr2d/psa_this_is_the_internet_and_people_lie/olb3830/", "content": "I did this too 😭" }, { "id": "t1_olbe651", "author": "/u/Zellakate", "updated": "2026-05-12T05:11:59+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tacr2d/psa_this_is_the_internet_and_people_lie/olbe651/", "content": "When I was teaching, one of the smartest students I ever had confessed to me she vandalized Wikipedia articles for fun. LOL" }, { "id": "t1_omv6e0a", "author": "/u/tenderheart35", "updated": "2026-05-20T13:56:08+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tacr2d/psa_this_is_the_internet_and_people_lie/omv6e0a/", "content": "I used to read old forums, but I never posted.\n But it’s true that you end up imagining someone mature is behind that screen and then you end up talking to someone you may never have even looked at in real life." }, { "id": "t1_olyoju3", "author": "/u/Vicuna00", "updated": "2026-05-15T15:10:30+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tacr2d/psa_this_is_the_internet_and_people_lie/olyoju3/", "content": "lol" }, { "id": "t1_ol9ajsx", "author": "/u/Friendly_Fee_8989", "updated": "2026-05-11T21:36:26+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tacr2d/psa_this_is_the_internet_and_people_lie/ol9ajsx/", "content": "Those are some boring 9th graders. Although I guess I could see them saying $5m isn’t enough. You need more like 6, 7." }, { "id": "t1_ol8n29w", "author": "/u/CutZealousideal5274", "updated": "2026-05-11T19:46:39+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tacr2d/psa_this_is_the_internet_and_people_lie/ol8n29w/", "content": "When I was in 9th grade my football coaches asked me for investing advice" }, { "id": "t1_ol8oo39", "author": "/u/thrax_mador", "updated": "2026-05-11T19:53:58+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tacr2d/psa_this_is_the_internet_and_people_lie/ol8oo39/", "content": "Must be all the AI posts." }, { "id": "t1_ol9mhfh", "author": "/u/_Losing_Generation_", "updated": "2026-05-11T22:39:58+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tacr2d/psa_this_is_the_internet_and_people_lie/ol9mhfh/", "content": "A lot of 30 years olds do the same thing." }, { "id": "t1_ol8ik9j", "author": "/u/Maroontan", "updated": "2026-05-11T19:25:47+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tacr2d/psa_this_is_the_internet_and_people_lie/ol8ik9j/", "content": "Did they say why" }, { "id": "t1_ol8mcya", "author": "/u/Lahm0123", "updated": "2026-05-11T19:43:25+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tacr2d/psa_this_is_the_internet_and_people_lie/ol8mcya/", "content": "That’s hilarious." }, { "id": "t1_ol9xyra", "author": "/u/Zrepsilon", "updated": "2026-05-11T23:44:52+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tacr2d/psa_this_is_the_internet_and_people_lie/ol9xyra/", "content": "Don’t worry it’s only getting fed into ai models as sure fact" }, { "id": "t1_oldnqa7", "author": "/u/Redwolfdc", "updated": "2026-05-12T14:34:13+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tacr2d/psa_this_is_the_internet_and_people_lie/oldnqa7/", "content": "This is just absolutely hilarious to me thinking about some 9th graders wasting their time trolling finance subs on Reddit." }, { "id": "t1_oldrjj6", "author": "/u/Cucumberappleblizz", "updated": "2026-05-12T14:51:25+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tacr2d/psa_this_is_the_internet_and_people_lie/oldrjj6/", "content": "Kids are weird lol" }, { "id": "t1_omv6mwi", "author": "/u/tenderheart35", "updated": "2026-05-20T13:57:19+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tacr2d/psa_this_is_the_internet_and_people_lie/omv6mwi/", "content": "Some kids have an over abundance of free time." }, { "id": "t1_ol8evrp", "author": "/u/PatternPinion", "updated": "2026-05-11T19:08:49+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tacr2d/psa_this_is_the_internet_and_people_lie/ol8evrp/", "content": "“I’m a 5th grade teacher and my husband is an apprentice plumber, our budget is $3.2M.”" }, { "id": "t1_ol8gozo", "author": "/u/CuriousTsukihime", "updated": "2026-05-11T19:17:08+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tacr2d/psa_this_is_the_internet_and_people_lie/ol8gozo/", "content": "Lmao House Hunters vibes. I make bespoke pottery out of Italian clay and my husband owns a food truck - our budget is 2.5 mil." }, { "id": "t1_ol9jvmn", "author": "/u/TheThunderbird", "updated": "2026-05-11T22:25:20+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tacr2d/psa_this_is_the_internet_and_people_lie/ol9jvmn/", "content": "I know two separate people who were on House Hunters International. Both were trust fund adults who had normal jobs, foreign wives, and parents with a nine figure net worth. House Hunters selects people with big budgets (exciting) and seemingly normal jobs (relatable)." }, { "id": "t1_ol8gu5n", "author": "/u/PatternPinion", "updated": "2026-05-11T19:17:49+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tacr2d/psa_this_is_the_internet_and_people_lie/ol8gu5n/", "content": "🤣\n I can’t be the only one, right?!" }, { "id": "t1_ol8jeuv", "author": "/u/PolymerIdentiFIRE", "updated": "2026-05-11T19:29:41+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tacr2d/psa_this_is_the_internet_and_people_lie/ol8jeuv/", "content": "ahahaha my sister makes jokes like this every time we watch house hunters together." }, { "id": "t1_ol8oxms", "author": "/u/runmymouth", "updated": "2026-05-11T19:55:11+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tacr2d/psa_this_is_the_internet_and_people_lie/ol8oxms/", "content": "Food trucks can make bank… but thats like any small buisness, most only make a bit of money." }, { "id": "t1_ol8w3qk", "author": "/u/Kind_Sea7994", "updated": "2026-05-11T20:27:54+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tacr2d/psa_this_is_the_internet_and_people_lie/ol8w3qk/", "content": "We can work from anywhere a stress free job a couple of hours here and there so we're ready to buy a nice big ass house on the beach." }, { "id": "t1_olb1vnx", "author": "/u/showyerbewbs", "updated": "2026-05-12T03:43:27+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tacr2d/psa_this_is_the_internet_and_people_lie/olb1vnx/", "content": "I shitpost and power mod 8 top subreddits, my partner operates 4 tumblr blogs and 3 OF pages.\n Our budget is the GDP of the state of California." }, { "id": "t1_ol8ie8q", "author": "/u/matchew566", "updated": "2026-05-11T19:25:01+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tacr2d/psa_this_is_the_internet_and_people_lie/ol8ie8q/", "content": "More like “I’m a 5th GRADER and my husband is an apprentice Crayola artist, our budget is $3.2M."" }, { "id": "t1_ona7xc2", "author": "/u/wlkrtxstrdr", "updated": "2026-05-22T17:33:04+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tacr2d/psa_this_is_the_internet_and_people_lie/ona7xc2/", "content": "I’m a 5th grader and my husband plumbs apprentices, budget $10m" }, { "id": "t1_ol8fvtl", "author": "/u/leversgreen", "updated": "2026-05-11T19:13:25+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tacr2d/psa_this_is_the_internet_and_people_lie/ol8fvtl/", "content": "Not too long ago, there was a poster talking about reaching their $5M milestone and getting hundreds of upvotes. I checked their comments history and only two weeks prior they talked about reaching $2.5M." }, { "id": "t1_ol8iklh", "author": "/u/More_Armadillo_1607", "updated": "2026-05-11T19:25:49+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tacr2d/psa_this_is_the_internet_and_people_lie/ol8iklh/", "content": "Do you think they put it all on black or red?" }, { "id": "t1_ol8r1g6", "author": "/u/Shot-Werewolf-5886", "updated": "2026-05-11T20:04:49+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tacr2d/psa_this_is_the_internet_and_people_lie/ol8r1g6/", "content": "They put it all on hantivirus through poly market, duh.\n Hot tip for 2027: Scurvy is gonna be huge because Bobby Kennedy and Joe Rogan are gonna tell everyone that oranges are gay." }, { "id": "t1_olb26k1", "author": "/u/showyerbewbs", "updated": "2026-05-12T03:45:30+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tacr2d/psa_this_is_the_internet_and_people_lie/olb26k1/", "content": "everyone that oranges are gay.\n They don't FEEL gay going up my urethra." }, { "id": "t1_oldy8jd", "author": "/u/anagamanagement", "updated": "2026-05-12T15:21:11+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tacr2d/psa_this_is_the_internet_and_people_lie/oldy8jd/", "content": "Shh! If you tell everyone the cure to the Hantavirus, you’ll blow up the markets!" }, { "id": "t1_ol8ucuu", "author": "/u/CetiAlpha4", "updated": "2026-05-11T20:19:57+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tacr2d/psa_this_is_the_internet_and_people_lie/ol8ucuu/", "content": "Red. Guy did it before and won although it was only $136k but that was a long time ago.\n https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zGCdBsOIKYA" }, { "id": "t1_ol9dkw8", "author": "/u/Kat9935", "updated": "2026-05-11T21:51:46+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tacr2d/psa_this_is_the_internet_and_people_lie/ol9dkw8/", "content": "Red we always said put it on red. My brother and I timed the market and timed it well in 2009, only time I ever did it and would never do it again beause no way I could be that lucky twice." }, { "id": "t1_ol9cw5j", "author": "/u/agent_flounder", "updated": "2026-05-11T21:48:14+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tacr2d/psa_this_is_the_internet_and_people_lie/ol9cw5j/", "content": "At that rate they probably are a billionaire now. Maybe they can retire in a few more weeks? /s" }, { "id": "t1_ol9dfo9", "author": "/u/Kat9935", "updated": "2026-05-11T21:51:01+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tacr2d/psa_this_is_the_internet_and_people_lie/ol9dfo9/", "content": "100% Intel??" }, { "id": "t1_olblycn", "author": "/u/aemilli", "updated": "2026-05-12T06:12:05+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tacr2d/psa_this_is_the_internet_and_people_lie/olblycn/", "content": "i mean.. that's totally possible though. have you seen this market? its bubbly." }, { "id": "t1_olloqtg", "author": "/u/zinga_zing", "updated": "2026-05-13T17:11:53+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tacr2d/psa_this_is_the_internet_and_people_lie/olloqtg/", "content": "That's the magic of compound interest!" }, { "id": "t1_ol8coer", "author": "", "updated": "2026-05-11T18:58:40+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tacr2d/psa_this_is_the_internet_and_people_lie/ol8coer/", "content": "[deleted]" }, { "id": "t1_ol8dy5t", "author": "/u/Appropriate-Cry-8423", "updated": "2026-05-11T19:04:29+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tacr2d/psa_this_is_the_internet_and_people_lie/ol8dy5t/", "content": "What? I haven’t inherited anything from some rich tech company uncle. Im 23 and made my millions (cough cough 90k ) by hard work" }, { "id": "t1_ol8eiw9", "author": "/u/Ready-Engineer-4916", "updated": "2026-05-11T19:07:09+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tacr2d/psa_this_is_the_internet_and_people_lie/ol8eiw9/", "content": "90k is extremely impressive at 23! Congrats and keep it going." }, { "id": "t1_ol8fj1z", "author": "/u/Appropriate-Cry-8423", "updated": "2026-05-11T19:11:48+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tacr2d/psa_this_is_the_internet_and_people_lie/ol8fj1z/", "content": "Thanks! I’m saving for a house!" }, { "id": "t1_ol8h5a9", "author": "/u/MeloniousV2", "updated": "2026-05-11T19:19:14+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tacr2d/psa_this_is_the_internet_and_people_lie/ol8h5a9/", "content": "In this economy? Best of luck 😭" }, { "id": "t1_ol8hsx2", "author": "/u/Appropriate-Cry-8423", "updated": "2026-05-11T19:22:16+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tacr2d/psa_this_is_the_internet_and_people_lie/ol8hsx2/", "content": "I’m aiming for the 200-300 k ones lol I don’t need a McMansion I see a few a few towns away from me I don’t need much space just a little backyard and no connected neighbors" }, { "id": "t1_ol9mp1r", "author": "/u/pgh_ski", "updated": "2026-05-11T22:41:09+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tacr2d/psa_this_is_the_internet_and_people_lie/ol9mp1r/", "content": "You are gonna do great! 23 and 90k saved up for a reasonable house purchase. You'll be amazed at how well you'll be sitting in a few short years." }, { "id": "t1_ol8s8v7", "author": "/u/MeloniousV2", "updated": "2026-05-11T20:10:20+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tacr2d/psa_this_is_the_internet_and_people_lie/ol8s8v7/", "content": "Hey man good for you! Best of luck in your hunt" }, { "id": "t1_ol8uy1j", "author": "/u/Appropriate-Cry-8423", "updated": "2026-05-11T20:22:38+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tacr2d/psa_this_is_the_internet_and_people_lie/ol8uy1j/", "content": "Thanks!" }, { "id": "t1_ol8g3xi", "author": "/u/Johnpecan", "updated": "2026-05-11T19:14:27+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tacr2d/psa_this_is_the_internet_and_people_lie/ol8g3xi/", "content": "Calling BS. I inherited a microchip company from my Aunt." }, { "id": "t1_ol8f8j2", "author": "/u/CelestiaKitty", "updated": "2026-05-11T19:10:27+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tacr2d/psa_this_is_the_internet_and_people_lie/ol8f8j2/", "content": "Comparison gets way easier when u remember half the internet is basically creative writing" }, { "id": "t1_olamt4n", "author": "/u/Acrobatic-Pay1233", "updated": "2026-05-12T02:09:09+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tacr2d/psa_this_is_the_internet_and_people_lie/olamt4n/", "content": "Yep! And bots!" }, { "id": "t1_old45qa", "author": "/u/ButteredPizza69420", "updated": "2026-05-12T12:59:09+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tacr2d/psa_this_is_the_internet_and_people_lie/old45qa/", "content": "Especially reddit" }, { "id": "t1_ol8d803", "author": "/u/Phrich", "updated": "2026-05-11T19:01:10+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tacr2d/psa_this_is_the_internet_and_people_lie/ol8d803/", "content": "You don't need to compare yourself to others at all.\n That being said, hitting $1m net in your early 30s is very achievable if you actually adhere to the basic FIRE concepts. Especially with the extreme bull market we have had in the last few years, it's not surprising so many people are hitting milestones now." }, { "id": "t1_ol8rs9o", "author": "/u/capitalsfan08", "updated": "2026-05-11T20:08:13+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tacr2d/psa_this_is_the_internet_and_people_lie/ol8rs9o/", "content": "I think people also confuse their single accumulation versus married couples posting. My wife and I are in our early 30s and have $800-825k of invested assets with another $400k in home equity. Cut that in half and its good, but not close to a million. It's such a great financial hack to be married to a high earner who is equally frugal though. I'll also never post about my "single NW" because that makes no sense in my context." }, { "id": "t1_olmd5cu", "author": "/u/Citizen_Kip_221", "updated": "2026-05-13T18:58:47+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tacr2d/psa_this_is_the_internet_and_people_lie/olmd5cu/", "content": "And as a single earner I always have to take a step back and reevaluate what people post to compare my single NW (because I'm human and of course I do). I looked at your numbers and felt a bit defeated then realized "my half" almost identically matches what what you've accumulated. Perspective is everything I guess. Keep the good work" }, { "id": "t1_ol8fcrm", "author": "/u/fec2245", "updated": "2026-05-11T19:11:00+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tacr2d/psa_this_is_the_internet_and_people_lie/ol8fcrm/", "content": "Yeah, in 2022 3% of households aged 30-34 had a net worth of $1 million (excluding their primary residence) and the market has gone up a lot since 2022 so the share now is probably even higher. 5% would be 1 in 20 households, that's a good share of the population." }, { "id": "t1_ol9h7ez", "author": "/u/Willow_Wandering", "updated": "2026-05-11T22:10:44+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tacr2d/psa_this_is_the_internet_and_people_lie/ol9h7ez/", "content": "This. I was told I was lying on this sub last week about my net worth and input for my age. Husband and I are both high earners who got married young, so we had the advantage of early combined finances and all our student loan debt paid off before we got married. We also knew from the jump we were going to FIRE and got very lucky to hit the market over the past few years. Our net worth isn't common for early thirties, but it is possible. Especially with combined finances and two high earners in a MCOL area.\n I'm not sure what it was about my posting history that made it look like it didn't add up, but I'd rather have the two million and everyone think I'm lying lol." }, { "id": "t1_ol8ibbp", "author": "/u/Potato_Farmer_Linus", "updated": "2026-05-11T19:24:39+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tacr2d/psa_this_is_the_internet_and_people_lie/ol8ibbp/", "content": "My wife and I literally just followed the advice of r/financialindependence and maxed ~all retirement accounts for ~6 years, plus bought a modest house, and now we're millionaires at 30. A 401k that was maxed from 2019 through 2024, plus ~$15k in 2025 is now worth over $300k. My wife also has over $250k in her own 401k." }, { "id": "t1_ol8gvei", "author": "/u/Noah_Safely", "updated": "2026-05-11T19:17:58+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tacr2d/psa_this_is_the_internet_and_people_lie/ol8gvei/", "content": "The year was 2019, I was sitting around minding my own business having a juicebox or two when inspiration struck and BAM I stole my mom's CC and bought crypto. I'm now 12 and have my first 13 million. Quick question - can I retire? My expenses are $13/day in juiceboxes (I get the good stuff bro)" }, { "id": "t1_ol8kttu", "author": "/u/Dxbr72", "updated": "2026-05-11T19:36:19+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tacr2d/psa_this_is_the_internet_and_people_lie/ol8kttu/", "content": "As long as you don’t allow lifestyle creep and start over spending on Fruitopia 😂😂😂" }, { "id": "t1_olf2cmb", "author": "/u/dabigchina", "updated": "2026-05-12T18:16:58+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tacr2d/psa_this_is_the_internet_and_people_lie/olf2cmb/", "content": "they still make fruitopia???" }, { "id": "t1_olc179j", "author": "/u/Wetalpaca", "updated": "2026-05-12T08:24:50+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tacr2d/psa_this_is_the_internet_and_people_lie/olc179j/", "content": "Man, to be 13 and a millionaire again.." }, { "id": "t1_ol8giwo", "author": "/u/Status_Escape6714", "updated": "2026-05-11T19:16:22+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tacr2d/psa_this_is_the_internet_and_people_lie/ol8giwo/", "content": "I'm convinced a good 60% of the posts are LLMs are this point" }, { "id": "t1_ol8v1gk", "author": "/u/Ethos_Logos", "updated": "2026-05-11T20:23:04+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tacr2d/psa_this_is_the_internet_and_people_lie/ol8v1gk/", "content": "Likely, it was at about 50% on reddit last year or the year or the year before.\n Or so I read here on Reddit. So. Grain of salt." }, { "id": "t1_ol94zjk", "author": "/u/Status_Escape6714", "updated": "2026-05-11T21:09:15+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tacr2d/psa_this_is_the_internet_and_people_lie/ol94zjk/", "content": "I'm sure the "hide user post/comment history" feature was specifically added to hide the fact that most of the "users" of Reddit are bots" }, { "id": "t1_ol99q3c", "author": "/u/Ethos_Logos", "updated": "2026-05-11T21:32:17+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tacr2d/psa_this_is_the_internet_and_people_lie/ol99q3c/", "content": "Very likely. I hide mine because I don’t want strangers finding out I’m posting here, and then going through my comments trying to identify me. I also accept that sometimes people will say I’m a bot, and am ok with it because idgaf." }, { "id": "t1_ol9awjw", "author": "/u/Several-Action-4043", "updated": "2026-05-11T21:38:13+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tacr2d/psa_this_is_the_internet_and_people_lie/ol9awjw/", "content": "You're perception isn't far off. Let me add some nuance that will help you bring it all together . . . . . ." }, { "id": "t1_ol8d7k9", "author": "/u/heartlessgamer", "updated": "2026-05-11T19:01:06+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tacr2d/psa_this_is_the_internet_and_people_lie/ol8d7k9/", "content": "How do we know you aren't lying to us right now?" }, { "id": "t1_ola1nxv", "author": "/u/Thomas_Foolery_", "updated": "2026-05-12T00:06:25+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tacr2d/psa_this_is_the_internet_and_people_lie/ola1nxv/", "content": "Just trust me bro 👍" }, { "id": "t1_olaqve4", "author": "/u/heartlessgamer", "updated": "2026-05-12T02:33:06+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tacr2d/psa_this_is_the_internet_and_people_lie/olaqve4/", "content": "Ok" }, { "id": "t1_ol8fzoj", "author": "/u/nullstring", "updated": "2026-05-11T19:13:55+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tacr2d/psa_this_is_the_internet_and_people_lie/ol8fzoj/", "content": "Just made me think of the scene. https://youtu.be/JDEV9q0UeCw?t=196" }, { "id": "t1_ol8jj2w", "author": "/u/Anymous2314", "updated": "2026-05-11T19:30:14+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tacr2d/psa_this_is_the_internet_and_people_lie/ol8jj2w/", "content": "Weird thing is: why do people compare to others. Out in the world there are people with 10 million self earned, why shall we assume they are lying.\n Casting aspersions on other is weird in FIRE sub. I mean everyone number is their own number based on their preference why should I care how much money others have.\n I mean there are people who are living in LCOL area in a 1200 sft home with just $50k/year budget(house paid off, cost around $200-250k). Then there are people living on a $300k budget in a VHCOL and they can afford it since they got lucky in the stock market and job.\n Sure this is not Fat FIRE sub but most folks do not know these concepts and land here asking if their 5 million is enough to live in a HCOL area, I am ok with them, if we want we can tell them to post on FAT Fire, instead of getting all jealous and worked up.\n Comparison is the thief of Joy should be posted in bold letter as a sticky post in this sub." }, { "id": "t1_ol8r9z9", "author": "/u/nightmareFluffy", "updated": "2026-05-11T20:05:53+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tacr2d/psa_this_is_the_internet_and_people_lie/ol8r9z9/", "content": "When people are lying or misleading others, or if it's an AI spouting experiences it didn't live, it's bad for everyone else. Of course comparison is the thief of joy. But if too many people are roleplaying their fantasies and we have to sort through that information, the discourse loses a lot of value. Then it's like, what's the point of being here?" }, { "id": "t1_ol8slyw", "author": "/u/Anymous2314", "updated": "2026-05-11T20:12:00+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tacr2d/psa_this_is_the_internet_and_people_lie/ol8slyw/", "content": "Once again, why should we care if someone got lucky and made 10 million?" }, { "id": "t1_ol8xdzo", "author": "/u/nightmareFluffy", "updated": "2026-05-11T20:33:48+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tacr2d/psa_this_is_the_internet_and_people_lie/ol8xdzo/", "content": "Because it's spam. Spam lowers the quality of any community." }, { "id": "t1_ol92r37", "author": "/u/Anymous2314", "updated": "2026-05-11T20:58:36+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tacr2d/psa_this_is_the_internet_and_people_lie/ol92r37/", "content": "It is not a spam, it is a fake post, they are different things, it is not asking us to buy something.\n How do we even know for sure what is a real statement about net worth vs fantasy, why not just chose to ignore it?" }, { "id": "t1_olcyo8d", "author": "/u/nightmareFluffy", "updated": "2026-05-12T12:29:45+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tacr2d/psa_this_is_the_internet_and_people_lie/olcyo8d/", "content": "- To me, fake posts are spam.\n- When fake statements are combined with real ones in a community, it's up to the discretion of the user to determine what's real or not. That's an extra step that is prone to user error, and it's more mental work even if someone was perfect in catching fake stuff.\n- While comparison is the thief of joy, it has some baseline value for figuring out what is possible or not. For example, finding out someone can earn $100k salary in a certain job is a useful piece of information. Similarly, knowing that someone with no inheritance invested $2M at age 35, or something like that, is useful to know that it is possible." }, { "id": "t1_ol8y5sv", "author": "/u/heartlessgamer", "updated": "2026-05-11T20:37:15+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tacr2d/psa_this_is_the_internet_and_people_lie/ol8y5sv/", "content": "Weird thing is: why do people compare to others.\n Social comparison. It wasn't too long ago that being low on the totem pole as a human meant death." }, { "id": "t1_ol92erd", "author": "/u/Anymous2314", "updated": "2026-05-11T20:56:58+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tacr2d/psa_this_is_the_internet_and_people_lie/ol92erd/", "content": "Sure but why should we let it bother us at all, we can simply chose to ignore it, how do we even know which post is legit or fake?" }, { "id": "t1_ol969sq", "author": "/u/heartlessgamer", "updated": "2026-05-11T21:15:25+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tacr2d/psa_this_is_the_internet_and_people_lie/ol969sq/", "content": "I get where you are going. I am just answering why it is so hard for us to do. We are fighting against thousands of years of our brains being tuned to survival." }, { "id": "t1_ol9h0k1", "author": "/u/Walmart-Shopper-22", "updated": "2026-05-11T22:09:44+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tacr2d/psa_this_is_the_internet_and_people_lie/ol9h0k1/", "content": "The "good version" is that a successful person provides a reference point as to what is potentially attainable for me. If someone tells me that they are happily RE'd on $2mm with a household that matches mine...by comparison I can tell myself that if I can get to $3mm, I should be able to experience what they have with even less risk/worry." }, { "id": "t1_ol8d74o", "author": "/u/svengoalie", "updated": "2026-05-11T19:01:03+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tacr2d/psa_this_is_the_internet_and_people_lie/ol8d74o/", "content": "Net worth often includes a home that they assume has a certain value..." }, { "id": "t1_ol8e5xs", "author": "/u/threwitaway123454321", "updated": "2026-05-11T19:05:30+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tacr2d/psa_this_is_the_internet_and_people_lie/ol8e5xs/", "content": "Mine also includes my parents’ and elderly neighbor’s net worth. I’m close to getting on that will.\n /s for those that need it" }, { "id": "t1_ol8gneq", "author": "/u/Numerous-Cup1863", "updated": "2026-05-11T19:16:56+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tacr2d/psa_this_is_the_internet_and_people_lie/ol8gneq/", "content": "I always leave my primary home out of net worth calculations. Because where ya gonna live if you sell It? A cardboard box?" }, { "id": "t1_ol8pewk", "author": "/u/_Mulberry__", "updated": "2026-05-11T19:57:23+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tacr2d/psa_this_is_the_internet_and_people_lie/ol8pewk/", "content": "Same for me. Unless you're planning some geo-arbitrage, it doesn't make sense to include home value in NW. Even once it's paid off, just account for it on the expenses line." }, { "id": "t1_ol8rgce", "author": "/u/tugabenfiquista", "updated": "2026-05-11T20:06:42+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tacr2d/psa_this_is_the_internet_and_people_lie/ol8rgce/", "content": "You can just sell it and rent" }, { "id": "t1_ol8sbkg", "author": "/u/capitalsfan08", "updated": "2026-05-11T20:10:40+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tacr2d/psa_this_is_the_internet_and_people_lie/ol8sbkg/", "content": "They're two different numbers but both meaningful. I live in a HCOL area and have owned a home for 4 years. Even at the low end of estimates, I could sell my house and move somewhere MCOL and find some type of housing that works for our family that I could pay in cash. That isn't our plan but it's good to be aware of." }, { "id": "t1_ol8r04k", "author": "/u/BillyBobChorton", "updated": "2026-05-11T20:04:38+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tacr2d/psa_this_is_the_internet_and_people_lie/ol8r04k/", "content": "I mean if you live in a M/HCOL major metro area you could easily trade your million plus home for something 1/3-1/2 the price out in the exurbs" }, { "id": "t1_ol9alpd", "author": "/u/MattieShoes", "updated": "2026-05-11T21:36:42+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tacr2d/psa_this_is_the_internet_and_people_lie/ol9alpd/", "content": "Then you're doing it wrong. If you come up with the same retirement plan with a fully paid off house and with no house, then you're doing something wrong. It's absolutely relevant." }, { "id": "t1_ol8fvci", "author": "", "updated": "2026-05-11T19:13:21+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tacr2d/psa_this_is_the_internet_and_people_lie/ol8fvci/", "content": "[deleted]" }, { "id": "t1_ol8xyld", "author": "/u/zomatcha", "updated": "2026-05-11T20:36:21+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tacr2d/psa_this_is_the_internet_and_people_lie/ol8xyld/", "content": "Honestly that’s why a lot of the high NW are very believable, even if they’re not easily achievable. It might seem like only 3% has X amount, but 3% means way more people than most would think. It’s obvious a lot of people have a lot of money at a young age." }, { "id": "t1_ol9be8t", "author": "/u/MattieShoes", "updated": "2026-05-11T21:40:42+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tacr2d/psa_this_is_the_internet_and_people_lie/ol9be8t/", "content": "There's also selection bias stacked on top.\n If your net worth is $32,000, you're far less likely to talk about it than if you've got a 7 figure net worth.\n And if you're in /r/fire , then you're considering early retirement scenarios, so you're kind of selecting for those with the ability to get there." }, { "id": "t1_olbijis", "author": "/u/lawyermom112", "updated": "2026-05-12T05:44:46+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tacr2d/psa_this_is_the_internet_and_people_lie/olbijis/", "content": "That website also shows that 1 million isn’t what it used to be\n I didn’t even pay off my law school loans until I was around 30 and in my late 30s I have 1.6 million net worth just from working and investing… I don’t make a ton now either\n If I had 5 million that’d be more unbelievable but a lot of people are millionaires" }, { "id": "t1_old1aj8", "author": "/u/dyanamic_perspective", "updated": "2026-05-12T12:44:07+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tacr2d/psa_this_is_the_internet_and_people_lie/old1aj8/", "content": "Yeah, people forget that 1% of the US is 3.4 million. Even if 1/10 of those are on reddit and 1/10 of those redditors are on a fire sub, then you still have 34k people just in the US." }, { "id": "t1_ol8obwv", "author": "/u/ImportantPost6401", "updated": "2026-05-11T19:52:26+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tacr2d/psa_this_is_the_internet_and_people_lie/ol8obwv/", "content": "While you are correct to be skeptical of any specific internet story…\n FIRE used to be about this. Work your job. Have a second job. Live with your parents (and if not, roommates in a dump), learn frugal cooking, and invest aggressively (as in well over half of your income, if not closer to 80%) and people really did hit FIRE numbers in a decade.\n Today this sub has turned into “I make $300,000 a year and I’m wondering if I can retire by 58 if I invest an additional $10k per year”." }, { "id": "t1_ol9fzja", "author": "/u/dabigchina", "updated": "2026-05-11T22:04:15+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tacr2d/psa_this_is_the_internet_and_people_lie/ol9fzja/", "content": "I agree. FIRE used to have this really anti-consumer/counterculture vibe to it. It was an alternative to the rat race.\n Now it's more like a way to "win" the rat race before you die." }, { "id": "t1_olawj8t", "author": "/u/MelvinEatsBlubber", "updated": "2026-05-12T03:07:58+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tacr2d/psa_this_is_the_internet_and_people_lie/olawj8t/", "content": "It was all of the internet. Fuck status and things and identity and who others think you are. Focus on freedom of thought and creativity. Don’t buy into the game. Play it for the least amount of time possible and then leave.\n Now you’re a freak if you’re not showing off yourself on instagram." }, { "id": "t1_ol8ghsq", "author": "/u/TheTrueAnonOne", "updated": "2026-05-11T19:16:14+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tacr2d/psa_this_is_the_internet_and_people_lie/ol8ghsq/", "content": "The flip side is that, being a millionaire by 30 isn't so unbelievably rare that you should blanket ignore it either. We hit it and we're just mid-west workers in upper middle class jobs with a very high savings rate.\n It wasn't "hard" it just took starting early and being consistent." }, { "id": "t1_olbpqql", "author": "/u/Bard_Revan", "updated": "2026-05-12T06:43:34+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tacr2d/psa_this_is_the_internet_and_people_lie/olbpqql/", "content": "I mean I'm an under 30 millionaire, but it's all equity lol. I basically live paycheck to paycheck after investments, mortgages and taxes" }, { "id": "t1_ol9oltv", "author": "/u/DontEatConcrete", "updated": "2026-05-11T22:51:47+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tacr2d/psa_this_is_the_internet_and_people_lie/ol9oltv/", "content": "So you’re “just” Two people who had upper middle class jobs before 30. lol dude." }, { "id": "t1_ola18g6", "author": "/u/TheTrueAnonOne", "updated": "2026-05-12T00:03:52+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tacr2d/psa_this_is_the_internet_and_people_lie/ola18g6/", "content": "Not common, but hardly impossible or extremely rare.\n Your average person isn't going to be on a FIRE sub at all, achieving FIRE in your 30s is going to automatically skew us to the higher income side." }, { "id": "t1_ol8d4ng", "author": "/u/That-SoCal-Guy", "updated": "2026-05-11T19:00:44+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tacr2d/psa_this_is_the_internet_and_people_lie/ol8d4ng/", "content": "I have $18M and I still don’t think I’m rich enough." }, { "id": "t1_ol8dnu7", "author": "/u/Rude-Efficiency-964", "updated": "2026-05-11T19:03:11+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tacr2d/psa_this_is_the_internet_and_people_lie/ol8dnu7/", "content": "You aren’t even rich yet. You’re a few bad scenarios away from homelessness" }, { "id": "t1_ol8dswc", "author": "/u/That-SoCal-Guy", "updated": "2026-05-11T19:03:50+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tacr2d/psa_this_is_the_internet_and_people_lie/ol8dswc/", "content": "Shut up you pour." }, { "id": "t1_ol9vhz6", "author": "/u/JigglyBobblyWobbly", "updated": "2026-05-11T23:30:46+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tacr2d/psa_this_is_the_internet_and_people_lie/ol9vhz6/", "content": "is one of those scenarios a bank heist ?" }, { "id": "t1_ol8dsxp", "author": "/u/fec2245", "updated": "2026-05-11T19:03:50+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tacr2d/psa_this_is_the_internet_and_people_lie/ol8dsxp/", "content": "Are your living expenses $20k/yr and you're unsure if you can require at 63? I think I saw your post the other day." }, { "id": "t1_ol8dt0j", "author": "/u/Many_Reindeer6636", "updated": "2026-05-11T19:03:50+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tacr2d/psa_this_is_the_internet_and_people_lie/ol8dt0j/", "content": "The kids call it ‘larping’ these days" }, { "id": "t1_ol8j8p6", "author": "/u/S1159P", "updated": "2026-05-11T19:28:54+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tacr2d/psa_this_is_the_internet_and_people_lie/ol8j8p6/", "content": "This doesn't seem nearly as fun as the kind with foam swords" }, { "id": "t1_ol9qy3z", "author": "/u/tyen0", "updated": "2026-05-11T23:04:58+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tacr2d/psa_this_is_the_internet_and_people_lie/ol9qy3z/", "content": "That term is pretty ancient on the internet scale.\n The terms predate the internet and have been used since at least the 1970s, especially amid the initial rise of tabletop RPGs like Dungeons & Dragons, though they grew in prevalence online primarily throughout the 2000s and 2010s.\n https://knowyourmeme.com/memes/larp-larping\n hah, also remember "lighting bolt! lightning bolt!"? https://knowyourmeme.com/memes/lightning-bolt" }, { "id": "t1_ol8nv5v", "author": "/u/Quiet-Antelope4967", "updated": "2026-05-11T19:50:19+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tacr2d/psa_this_is_the_internet_and_people_lie/ol8nv5v/", "content": "Well some are probably fake but being in 30s and having at least 1 million in networth is probably in the top 5% which is still at least hundreds of thousands of people." }, { "id": "t1_olcbgg1", "author": "/u/MaxPanhammer", "updated": "2026-05-12T09:55:03+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tacr2d/psa_this_is_the_internet_and_people_lie/olcbgg1/", "content": "This sub is very America centric. American population is ~340 mil. ~7% of that is in their 30s which is 23.8mil. Top 5% of THAT would be 1.2 million people.\n Now, I don't believe the top 5% of 30-something's are millionaires but I've done enough napkin math for one morning." }, { "id": "t1_old41ic", "author": "/u/Quiet-Antelope4967", "updated": "2026-05-12T12:58:33+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tacr2d/psa_this_is_the_internet_and_people_lie/old41ic/", "content": "Use whatever sources you want. It could be 5%, 3% or just 1% of people in their 30s which is 30-39. Using your own math it’s still in the hundreds of thousands. America has the most total amount of millionaires so it’s going to be more common here" }, { "id": "t1_old4t6o", "author": "/u/MaxPanhammer", "updated": "2026-05-12T13:02:35+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tacr2d/psa_this_is_the_internet_and_people_lie/old4t6o/", "content": "Sorry I wasn't disagreeing with you, I was actually saying you're maybe even underestimating. Was trying to bolster your point not shit on it" }, { "id": "t1_ol8ry5u", "author": "/u/S7EFEN", "updated": "2026-05-11T20:08:58+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tacr2d/psa_this_is_the_internet_and_people_lie/ol8ry5u/", "content": "just because some people lie doesn't mean *most* do. reddit grew heavily off gaming and technology... for which there are consequently a lot of people who work in tech, who have good salaries, good savings rates, lucky RSU appreciation etc. Reddit also leans towards that demographic in terms of american, not as often rural based etc.\n >Just a friendly reminder that you shouldn’t measure your progress by other people’s stats, especially when they aren’t verifiable and people lie all the time.\n measure against actual data. dqydj has good age/net worth percentiles. 1m in your 20s and 30s is very achievable. consider that this often includes home equity and includes dual income couples (1m invested vs 1m home equity vs 500k*2 are all considerably different numbers).\n also keep in mind some people graduate with zero debt. the difference between being able to graduate debt free, or even say max your roth IRA while in school... additionally is tremendous ." }, { "id": "t1_ol8eqfl", "author": "/u/Direct_Remove509", "updated": "2026-05-11T19:08:08+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tacr2d/psa_this_is_the_internet_and_people_lie/ol8eqfl/", "content": "Well I am real and spectacular, woops wrong sub…" }, { "id": "t1_ol8g09e", "author": "/u/howardbagel", "updated": "2026-05-11T19:13:59+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tacr2d/psa_this_is_the_internet_and_people_lie/ol8g09e/", "content": "sidra!" }, { "id": "t1_ol8fcql", "author": "/u/orthros", "updated": "2026-05-11T19:11:00+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tacr2d/psa_this_is_the_internet_and_people_lie/ol8fcql/", "content": "It’s why I wish there were a way to tag and affirm real life identity for those who want it\n Most will want anonymity and that’s fine. It’d be nice to know when you could really trust a sorry though because yeah mostly LARPing" }, { "id": "t1_ol8siw8", "author": "/u/capitalsfan08", "updated": "2026-05-11T20:11:37+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tacr2d/psa_this_is_the_internet_and_people_lie/ol8siw8/", "content": "Why would anyone voluntarily dox themselves? Particularly on something so sensitive?" }, { "id": "t1_ol8z7oo", "author": "/u/TonyTheEvil", "updated": "2026-05-11T20:42:04+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tacr2d/psa_this_is_the_internet_and_people_lie/ol8z7oo/", "content": "To win the pissing contest obviously. r/FatFIRE had a verification process" }, { "id": "t1_ol9gpq7", "author": "/u/capitalsfan08", "updated": "2026-05-11T22:08:07+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tacr2d/psa_this_is_the_internet_and_people_lie/ol9gpq7/", "content": "That's hilarious but I have to say, anyone who outs themselves for perceived internet clout deserves whatever comes from it." }, { "id": "t1_ol9kvri", "author": "/u/orthros", "updated": "2026-05-11T22:30:59+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tacr2d/psa_this_is_the_internet_and_people_lie/ol9kvri/", "content": "Why does anyone participate here at all? I'd listen to someone who was verified, even if they didn't have their identity publicly revealed, versus the 12 year olds pretending to have $20 million while living in Thailand" }, { "id": "t1_ol8hrf5", "author": "/u/Boys4Ever", "updated": "2026-05-11T19:22:05+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tacr2d/psa_this_is_the_internet_and_people_lie/ol8hrf5/", "content": "I laugh at 20 years old millionaires on the internet. Are they bored? When I was 20, I was spending every dollar chasing girls." }, { "id": "t1_ol8j7y3", "author": "/u/Mitoria", "updated": "2026-05-11T19:28:49+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tacr2d/psa_this_is_the_internet_and_people_lie/ol8j7y3/", "content": "Most people who have a ton of money don't feel like talking about their ton of money." }, { "id": "t1_ol9blsv", "author": "/u/Pale_Fox_8874s", "updated": "2026-05-11T21:41:46+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tacr2d/psa_this_is_the_internet_and_people_lie/ol9blsv/", "content": "Talking about it publicly is frowned upon but talking in an anonymous forum is very easy" }, { "id": "t1_ollpmzm", "author": "/u/zinga_zing", "updated": "2026-05-13T17:15:44+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tacr2d/psa_this_is_the_internet_and_people_lie/ollpmzm/", "content": "I agree. But it's hard because occasionally someone who is clearly really great with money will write a post that just blows me away. I don't like to miss those!" }, { "id": "t1_ol9f70p", "author": "/u/Pale_Fox_8874s", "updated": "2026-05-11T22:00:03+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tacr2d/psa_this_is_the_internet_and_people_lie/ol9f70p/", "content": "Should make r/MiddleClassFIRE for those who want to avoid seeing bigger numbers, ignorance is bliss" }, { "id": "t1_olas67t", "author": "/u/toy-poodle", "updated": "2026-05-12T02:40:52+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tacr2d/psa_this_is_the_internet_and_people_lie/olas67t/", "content": "r/leanfire is the new MiddleClassFIRE, and even that channel sometimes I find a little too skewed towards 1M+s. My personal FIRE number is 800k + pension but I do not post in this channel because people would just tell me I am nuts." }, { "id": "t1_olbztio", "author": "/u/RyleeOnDemand", "updated": "2026-05-12T08:12:19+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tacr2d/psa_this_is_the_internet_and_people_lie/olbztio/", "content": "We went lean about half way in to our fire journey because we realized we could reach the FI part we just weren’t going to get it in an RE scenario. The only reason our NW topped 1M was an unexpected death on my wife’s side that resulted in some property inheritance shortly before our expected RE date.\n I’m in both subs and every once in a while this one answers a question for me or gives me a chance to comment for someone who’s on a more lean journey than this sub typically represents." }, { "id": "t1_ol8f3s1", "author": "/u/gloriousrepublic", "updated": "2026-05-11T19:09:51+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tacr2d/psa_this_is_the_internet_and_people_lie/ol8f3s1/", "content": "Here’s the thing - there’s plenty of folks in the FIRE community in their 20s or 30s who have hit a million+ NW. So those lying here just skew our perception of their prevalence. But that perception is already skewed in this sub just based on self selection. If you’re using the prevalence of these stories in these subs to gauge how common this is in the real world, then you’ve already got a problem. Some folks lying here isn’t going to move the needle much on that." }, { "id": "t1_ol8mv21", "author": "/u/understood_headnod", "updated": "2026-05-11T19:45:43+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tacr2d/psa_this_is_the_internet_and_people_lie/ol8mv21/", "content": "Comparison is the thief of joy. - some dude probably" }, { "id": "t1_ol8se5k", "author": "/u/LizzyPanhandle", "updated": "2026-05-11T20:11:00+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tacr2d/psa_this_is_the_internet_and_people_lie/ol8se5k/", "content": "Some are so obvious, its such a strange thing to catfish flex." }, { "id": "t1_ol9ct09", "author": "/u/quent12dg", "updated": "2026-05-11T21:47:48+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tacr2d/psa_this_is_the_internet_and_people_lie/ol9ct09/", "content": "I think a lot of posters nowadays on Reddit are bots that suck information from various stories and spit out new content. Sound like you are talking about me, but I have yet to write out my life story for anonymous internet clout when I already have 30k karma." }, { "id": "t1_ole7qd1", "author": "/u/martin", "updated": "2026-05-12T16:02:43+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tacr2d/psa_this_is_the_internet_and_people_lie/ole7qd1/", "content": "whoa high roller" }, { "id": "t1_ol8g56n", "author": "/u/dynastyfriar", "updated": "2026-05-11T19:14:37+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tacr2d/psa_this_is_the_internet_and_people_lie/ol8g56n/", "content": "Lying and bots" }, { "id": "t1_ol8her0", "author": "/u/neatneets", "updated": "2026-05-11T19:20:26+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tacr2d/psa_this_is_the_internet_and_people_lie/ol8her0/", "content": "So because you can’t verify something, they’re lying?" }, { "id": "t1_ol9bu35", "author": "/u/Pale_Fox_8874s", "updated": "2026-05-11T21:42:54+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tacr2d/psa_this_is_the_internet_and_people_lie/ol9bu35/", "content": "Coping mechanism" }, { "id": "t1_ol8mxjr", "author": "/u/RunsaberSR", "updated": "2026-05-11T19:46:02+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tacr2d/psa_this_is_the_internet_and_people_lie/ol8mxjr/", "content": "I'm mainly here for the 🍿.\n I know what's in my accounts.\n Some of the things said here and discussed are pretty wild." }, { "id": "t1_ol8u1mv", "author": "/u/Dry_Inflation307", "updated": "2026-05-11T20:18:32+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tacr2d/psa_this_is_the_internet_and_people_lie/ol8u1mv/", "content": "Sometimes it’s hard to tell if they’re trolling or just from a wealthy family." }, { "id": "t1_ol909dj", "author": "/u/Lopsided_Mirror8541", "updated": "2026-05-11T20:46:56+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tacr2d/psa_this_is_the_internet_and_people_lie/ol909dj/", "content": "There's a sinister side to all this I think. I was chatting to a young relative recently, he's just about to turn 18. I was discussing career/work etc and his answer was that he wanted to be FIRE and was going to achieve it by doing FOREX trading. I immediately figured this was all from seeing all thees toxic influencer types on instagram. The thing is that he was absolutely convinced that working/getting a job is "a mugs game that society does to make you conform like sheep"..\n The problem is I think the great concept of FIRE is being predated on by a lot of these influencer people who are wanting you to buy into their trading programmes, platforms, whatever.\n And I suspect much of this flexing (which is as the OP mentioned, most likely entirely fabricated) is all a rouse" }, { "id": "t1_ol91ot1", "author": "/u/grovester", "updated": "2026-05-11T20:53:34+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tacr2d/psa_this_is_the_internet_and_people_lie/ol91ot1/", "content": "That dude the other day. I have 6 million in my 50s and don’t want / know how to retire. Not to mention his numbers didn’t add up at all." }, { "id": "t1_ol96qvk", "author": "/u/kjbasser", "updated": "2026-05-11T21:17:42+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tacr2d/psa_this_is_the_internet_and_people_lie/ol96qvk/", "content": "You shouldn’t care how much money somebody else has anyways…" }, { "id": "t1_ol9fymn", "author": "/u/HowSporadic", "updated": "2026-05-11T22:04:07+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tacr2d/psa_this_is_the_internet_and_people_lie/ol9fymn/", "content": "Don’t also believe everything is a lie. I have 7 figs at 25 and can verify." }, { "id": "t1_ola3js2", "author": "/u/Previous_Composer_78", "updated": "2026-05-12T00:17:31+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tacr2d/psa_this_is_the_internet_and_people_lie/ola3js2/", "content": "While I'm sure some people lie, I feel the extent to which people think lying is happening is way overblown.\n I don't think people understand how much sampling bias it takes to get to the point where it makes sense to post on this sub about your achievements.\n Reddit in general- already biased towards men in there 20s-30s with a strong connection/dependence on the internet (e.g high correlation with tech)\n Fire sub- self selecting people who actually feel like they can or will make enough money to retire early (few people) and furthermore have the desire/discipline to delay gratification and save and invest the difference (even fewer)\n And that's only 2 of them. This sub isn't representative of reality, but that doesn't mean people are lying folks. This can so easily be explained by statistics.\n If only 10000 people falling into this category is enough for literally decades worth of posts. In the US alone the top 10 tech companies are probably hire close to half a million people alone. Ironically the outsized attention we give them, probably contributes more to the lying and disincentives people that are actually in that position from posting more than anything else." }, { "id": "t1_ola9bst", "author": "/u/Best-Philosophy676", "updated": "2026-05-12T00:51:11+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tacr2d/psa_this_is_the_internet_and_people_lie/ola9bst/", "content": "I’m poor." }, { "id": "t1_olek5ln", "author": "/u/Over_Efficiency_2605", "updated": "2026-05-12T16:57:50+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tacr2d/psa_this_is_the_internet_and_people_lie/olek5ln/", "content": "Yeah they are millionaires, they just "forgot" to mention the 2m inheritance they got from mommy and daddy." }, { "id": "t1_olh686o", "author": "/u/Amnesiaftw", "updated": "2026-05-13T00:30:56+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tacr2d/psa_this_is_the_internet_and_people_lie/olh686o/", "content": "They are FINALLY millionaires after years of hard work and sacrifice living within their means (probably 2 years of full time work, spending frivolously)." }, { "id": "t1_ol8eklx", "author": "/u/ChuckOfTheIrish", "updated": "2026-05-11T19:07:23+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tacr2d/psa_this_is_the_internet_and_people_lie/ol8eklx/", "content": "I think rule 1 is don't compare to anyone else. Follow the general guidelines and percentages, understand your expected expenses and tax changes and you'll be set.\n Even if people weren't lying, there are plenty of people that are far ahead of the median in this group and there's nothing wrong with that. Find a number you're comfortable with and aim to hit that without completely depriving your livelihood until then, or if you aren't in as big of a rush, slowly decrease your savings and go the coast fire route." }, { "id": "t1_ol8f65i", "author": "/u/RedQueenWhiteQueen", "updated": "2026-05-11T19:10:09+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tacr2d/psa_this_is_the_internet_and_people_lie/ol8f65i/", "content": "I'm human and I'm going to compare myself to others. But I like to use the data from the triennial Survey of Consumer Finances.\n People* posting on reddit are self-selected even if what they say is true, and the reports from 401k providers is flawed by excluding assets outside the 401ks held at their particular institution.\n *and of course now they might be AI and not even people." }, { "id": "t1_ol8gfty", "author": "/u/Taipan420", "updated": "2026-05-11T19:15:58+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tacr2d/psa_this_is_the_internet_and_people_lie/ol8gfty/", "content": "Comparison is the thief of joy!" }, { "id": "t1_ol8kmeo", "author": "/u/zerkeras", "updated": "2026-05-11T19:35:20+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tacr2d/psa_this_is_the_internet_and_people_lie/ol8kmeo/", "content": "FYI I recently made a post here for hitting $500k for investments. I comment on PF subs a lot, but I never felt like I wanted/needed to make a milestone post until I hit that number. My post history wouldn’t otherwise indicate what my numbers would have been at other times.\n Of course if those profiles are like “I’m horribly in debt” and then weeks later hit $1m NW then yeah sure, definitely fake. I’m sure some people who post here are indeed faking it." }, { "id": "t1_ol8m5i8", "author": "/u/PuzzleheadedFrame439", "updated": "2026-05-11T19:42:27+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tacr2d/psa_this_is_the_internet_and_people_lie/ol8m5i8/", "content": "Words of wisdom from Tom Foolery himself!" }, { "id": "t1_ol8xece", "author": "/u/kurikuri15", "updated": "2026-05-11T20:33:50+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tacr2d/psa_this_is_the_internet_and_people_lie/ol8xece/", "content": "Theyre farming on upvotes be vigilant!" }, { "id": "t1_ol92njh", "author": "/u/Beren__", "updated": "2026-05-11T20:58:08+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tacr2d/psa_this_is_the_internet_and_people_lie/ol92njh/", "content": "I’m a Garlic bread expert, my wife is a butterfly therapist Combined Net worth - $4.9M in HCOL" }, { "id": "t1_ol99uet", "author": "/u/MattieShoes", "updated": "2026-05-11T21:32:54+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tacr2d/psa_this_is_the_internet_and_people_lie/ol99uet/", "content": "I agree about the latter -- we're all running our own race. But if you're fact checking randos on reddit by going through post histories, maybe you need a better hobby." }, { "id": "t1_ol9k9rw", "author": "/u/CaesarsPleasers", "updated": "2026-05-11T22:27:32+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tacr2d/psa_this_is_the_internet_and_people_lie/ol9k9rw/", "content": "I mean I have a 7 figure NW, and I’m younger than 30; why does this bother you so much? There are thousands of people in the same bucket.\n How would you be able to tell if I was lying or LARPing, with some of my profile history hidden?\n Don’t disagree that LARPing is rampant on this sub, but it’s usually pretty easy to spot." }, { "id": "t1_ol9kw3j", "author": "/u/SpaceJesusIsHere", "updated": "2026-05-11T22:31:02+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tacr2d/psa_this_is_the_internet_and_people_lie/ol9kw3j/", "content": "As a corralary, be very careful taking health care cost advice on here. Most people don't understand how much these costs can vary based on individual health and dozens of other factors.\n I've seen too many people post their expected costs based on ACA costs, but it's clear they haven't actually had to use their lower tier plans for major medical issues or experienced the joy of going to an in-network ER with an out-of-network doctor and anesthesiologist. Or the fun of "ballance billing." Or what happens when your medical issue is officially non-emergency and the in-network Drs don't have appointments until next year.\n Health care costs are so, so hard to estimate accurately based on national averages. Please don't take them as gospel." }, { "id": "t1_ol9lylf", "author": "/u/yadiyoda", "updated": "2026-05-11T22:37:02+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tacr2d/psa_this_is_the_internet_and_people_lie/ol9lylf/", "content": "From dqydj using data from federal reserve 2022 report, 4% of age 30-34 had 1mil+ net worth. I would imagine the number is most likely higher given the market performance." }, { "id": "t1_ol9q38b", "author": "/u/tyen0", "updated": "2026-05-11T23:00:07+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tacr2d/psa_this_is_the_internet_and_people_lie/ol9q38b/", "content": ""last few days" is a terrible sample size... plus you could be lying about catching people! hah" }, { "id": "t1_ol9x603", "author": "/u/Jdevers77", "updated": "2026-05-11T23:40:17+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tacr2d/psa_this_is_the_internet_and_people_lie/ol9x603/", "content": "Meanwhile, I’m getting close to 50 and while I’ve been FI for a good while RE just means I’m excited I should be able to have a solid 5-7 year period where I am retired but still not drawing social security yet." }, { "id": "t1_olb2dnd", "author": "/u/Available-Ad-5670", "updated": "2026-05-12T03:46:51+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tacr2d/psa_this_is_the_internet_and_people_lie/olb2dnd/", "content": "I find it crazy that people lie about that stuff. WHY? its just a waste of time. kind psycho actually" }, { "id": "t1_olbuqze", "author": "/u/stelbunny", "updated": "2026-05-12T07:26:20+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tacr2d/psa_this_is_the_internet_and_people_lie/olbuqze/", "content": "This needs to be pinned honestly, it is so easy to get demoralized scrolling through this sub when you forget that a good chunk of the most outrageous posts are just people larping as millionaires for internet points." }, { "id": "t1_olcl7o7", "author": "/u/philzilla333", "updated": "2026-05-12T11:07:47+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tacr2d/psa_this_is_the_internet_and_people_lie/olcl7o7/", "content": "People should be friggin mindful of their privilege. FIRE to me means being working class and living on a total budget and making it work through sacrifices on a very modest income.\n You do not qualify for FIRE in the original sense if you’re living off of your family’s net worth. Then you are a) very lucky and b) also entitled to happiness but c) not entitled to applause by the FIRE crew" }, { "id": "t1_olh6npi", "author": "/u/Amnesiaftw", "updated": "2026-05-13T00:33:23+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tacr2d/psa_this_is_the_internet_and_people_lie/olh6npi/", "content": "FIRE also seems to be reserved for people with solid income these days now too. You can make $70K/year but if you aren’t living with ur parents for most of it, even living frugally won’t get you many years of early retirement if any." }, { "id": "t1_oljehia", "author": "/u/philzilla333", "updated": "2026-05-13T10:06:36+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tacr2d/psa_this_is_the_internet_and_people_lie/oljehia/", "content": "Even with a moderately solid income its hard to just buy the basics for a family life that at least faintly resembles middle class 90‘s upbringing" }, { "id": "t1_olclaxp", "author": "/u/philzilla333", "updated": "2026-05-12T11:08:24+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tacr2d/psa_this_is_the_internet_and_people_lie/olclaxp/", "content": "Disclaimer: i dont fire and likely never will because i lack discipline but at least i dont lie here!" }, { "id": "t1_olfw94j", "author": "/u/Gold_Temperature_329", "updated": "2026-05-12T20:32:35+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tacr2d/psa_this_is_the_internet_and_people_lie/olfw94j/", "content": "What do you mean? I’m 26, clear 180k after tax and have a NW of 2.4M. Doesn’t everyone??" }, { "id": "t1_ol8dwcc", "author": "/u/GlorifiedCarnie", "updated": "2026-05-11T19:04:15+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tacr2d/psa_this_is_the_internet_and_people_lie/ol8dwcc/", "content": "This market run has helped out people tremendously, but being a relatively high earner In a lcol area. It is 100% possible to hit 1m by 30\n If you were 20 years old in 2016 and you were making 100k you would take home $6000 after tax in nys.\n The past 10 years had an average of 15% per year increase. If you were to save 3700 per month for 10 years and invest it in vti you would have made a million by this year.\n It's not hard, just takes sacrifice" }, { "id": "t1_ol8l2ni", "author": "/u/dafll", "updated": "2026-05-11T19:37:26+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tacr2d/psa_this_is_the_internet_and_people_lie/ol8l2ni/", "content": "Not a lot of 20 year olds make 100k. US College graduates are usually 23 depending on if they have a summer birthday.\n So 3 years less." }, { "id": "t1_ol8emil", "author": "/u/El-Unocornio-Negro", "updated": "2026-05-11T19:07:38+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tacr2d/psa_this_is_the_internet_and_people_lie/ol8emil/", "content": "Nooooooo way!🙀" }, { "id": "t1_ol8hzth", "author": "/u/nopigscannnotlookup", "updated": "2026-05-11T19:23:09+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tacr2d/psa_this_is_the_internet_and_people_lie/ol8hzth/", "content": "Don’t get too discouraged. The majority of those posts are including home equity and/or non liquid investable assets. Most people coming to this sub are entirely clueless about what the Fire strategy is and/or what comprises it." }, { "id": "t1_ol8r5ml", "author": "/u/Patient-Brief-9713", "updated": "2026-05-11T20:05:20+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tacr2d/psa_this_is_the_internet_and_people_lie/ol8r5ml/", "content": "Not just lying for kicks. Also lots of bots/AI, karma farming, etc. The only way to make this group useful is to (1) ignore 80%+ of the content (milestone posts, humblebrags, all the "just curious" or "anyone else feel this way" AI slop) and (2) do not use the content to compare yourself to others or benchmark yourself.\n You can use the tiny percent of useful content to learn and strategize (the Rule of 55, ACA subsidies, roth conversions, umbrella insurance, withdrawal strategies, names of financial modelling software, good fire calculators, etc.)" }, { "id": "t1_ol8u68w", "author": "/u/The_Walrus_65", "updated": "2026-05-11T20:19:07+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tacr2d/psa_this_is_the_internet_and_people_lie/ol8u68w/", "content": "Most of you probably don’t remember many years ago when a poster claimed she was an Only Fans model who became a multimillionaire by doing nude yoga. She claimed zero hard work and just had money rolling in and was retiring. When asked for proof she said her nude yoga never showed her face and then provided a doctored pay stub. Still, most of this sub believed her and the admins backed her up. It was disheartening to see how many here believed her and became so discouraged they wanted to just quit their fire journey." }, { "id": "t1_ol90ukn", "author": "/u/thevaultdweller_13", "updated": "2026-05-11T20:49:40+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tacr2d/psa_this_is_the_internet_and_people_lie/ol90ukn/", "content": "Hello everyone. I have 10,000,000,000,000 dollars (Zimbabwe). Can I retire yet?" }, { "id": "t1_ol92ssz", "author": "/u/Waiting_for_Exit", "updated": "2026-05-11T20:58:49+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tacr2d/psa_this_is_the_internet_and_people_lie/ol92ssz/", "content": "Same as r salary and any other financial sub" }, { "id": "t1_ol973id", "author": "/u/thelittleromanian", "updated": "2026-05-11T21:19:24+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tacr2d/psa_this_is_the_internet_and_people_lie/ol973id/", "content": "Well heck I might be on the naive side, but this is sobering. Thanks OP and all who comment their experiences." }, { "id": "t1_ol97e6s", "author": "/u/ExtraArticle9686", "updated": "2026-05-11T21:20:50+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tacr2d/psa_this_is_the_internet_and_people_lie/ol97e6s/", "content": "Reminds me of the joke that I could retire right now till the end of my life if I die in 3 months." }, { "id": "t1_ol9bsbv", "author": "/u/WorstWarframePlayer", "updated": "2026-05-11T21:42:40+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tacr2d/psa_this_is_the_internet_and_people_lie/ol9bsbv/", "content": "Are you telling me that I shouldn't take what I see on a (debatably) open forum as gospel? How do I know that you're not lying about everyone else?\n I don't have a budget for this nonsense, I'm going morally bankrupt. Going to go invest in GameStop now ttyl" }, { "id": "t1_ol9p2g2", "author": "/u/vinean", "updated": "2026-05-11T22:54:22+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tacr2d/psa_this_is_the_internet_and_people_lie/ol9p2g2/", "content": "I’m 20, $2m liquid, 6’4” with 6 pack abs and stunningly good looking.\n Alas, only one of those is true." }, { "id": "t1_ol9qlst", "author": "/u/Banned3rdTimesaCharm", "updated": "2026-05-11T23:03:01+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tacr2d/psa_this_is_the_internet_and_people_lie/ol9qlst/", "content": "But I'm legit big rich though. 39 2m invested and paid off condo in SF worth 1.1 million. Like really legit." }, { "id": "t1_ol9v4j4", "author": "/u/JigglyBobblyWobbly", "updated": "2026-05-11T23:28:39+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tacr2d/psa_this_is_the_internet_and_people_lie/ol9v4j4/", "content": "20s maybe pretty rare, but a million net worth in your 30s is really not crazy hard." }, { "id": "t1_olami48", "author": "/u/lifewastedforothers", "updated": "2026-05-12T02:07:21+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tacr2d/psa_this_is_the_internet_and_people_lie/olami48/", "content": "I have ~$580k at 26 fr tho. Actually very doable assuming you got a 145k+ job quickly out of college" }, { "id": "t1_olaniof", "author": "/u/xTETSUOx", "updated": "2026-05-12T02:13:17+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tacr2d/psa_this_is_the_internet_and_people_lie/olaniof/", "content": "The biggest giveaway is their mention of having a “pension” but their wealth is from being in tech lol." }, { "id": "t1_olanytc", "author": "/u/Beginning-Seaweed-67", "updated": "2026-05-12T02:15:55+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tacr2d/psa_this_is_the_internet_and_people_lie/olanytc/", "content": "How would you even know if they were a millionaire by what they say anyways? It seems like one of those things where if you have a million why would you want to tell the general public this? Do you really want to attract that kind of people?" }, { "id": "t1_olatma5", "author": "/u/westpaceagle", "updated": "2026-05-12T02:49:44+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tacr2d/psa_this_is_the_internet_and_people_lie/olatma5/", "content": "These liars make those of us who retired at 25 with $12M after 3 years of hard work look bad." }, { "id": "t1_olh7ubp", "author": "/u/Amnesiaftw", "updated": "2026-05-13T00:39:56+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tacr2d/psa_this_is_the_internet_and_people_lie/olh7ubp/", "content": "If I work for you for one year. (1 year of hard work), can I get $1M?" }, { "id": "t1_olazgse", "author": "/u/anongjco", "updated": "2026-05-12T03:27:10+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tacr2d/psa_this_is_the_internet_and_people_lie/olazgse/", "content": "Gotta admit, I read those and kinda felt like a loser. It's taken us 8 years to go from $0 to $250K in investments." }, { "id": "t1_olh7n29", "author": "/u/Amnesiaftw", "updated": "2026-05-13T00:38:50+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tacr2d/psa_this_is_the_internet_and_people_lie/olh7n29/", "content": "Hey better than me! I’m down $30K in the last 8 years. (Well not really. I’ve accumulated $150K, but stocks have lost me money overall)" }, { "id": "t1_olbyx30", "author": "/u/CircusTentMaker", "updated": "2026-05-12T08:04:12+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tacr2d/psa_this_is_the_internet_and_people_lie/olbyx30/", "content": "This is such a weird denial that people have. Yes, people in their 20s and 30s do get over the million dollar mark. Those people are more likely to post about it online since it's not often acceptable to talk about it in their everyday life. Plenty of people get lucky and land a high paying job and/or get lucky with investments. I worked in FAANG at the right place right time and hit 1M before thirty, and through this crazy bull market I'm way over that now. I know most people are not so lucky, but we can all still share in our FIRE journeys at our own rates and support each other" }, { "id": "t1_olh7gei", "author": "/u/Amnesiaftw", "updated": "2026-05-13T00:37:49+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tacr2d/psa_this_is_the_internet_and_people_lie/olh7gei/", "content": "It’s fine if they actually explain how it happened. I see too many claims of hard work and sacrifice when that actually plays a small part. It’s often luck or success in finding a high-paying job. At that point, living frugally and DCA-ing isn’t what really got them there. It’s the massive amount of income in one way or another. Which I think is valid and counts as FIRE. But it’s just annoying to these claims without a proper explanation and often out of touch views (like, if I did it, everyone can do it)." }, { "id": "t1_olc6yqk", "author": "/u/Impossible_Aide_7998", "updated": "2026-05-12T09:16:36+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tacr2d/psa_this_is_the_internet_and_people_lie/olc6yqk/", "content": "Yea this thread has become a fairy tale thread lol" }, { "id": "t1_old4eth", "author": "/u/Actual_Load_3914", "updated": "2026-05-12T13:00:29+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tacr2d/psa_this_is_the_internet_and_people_lie/old4eth/", "content": "Totally agree, it doesn't matter what others are doing. Everyone has a different circumstances, set your own goal, run your own simulations according to your own criteria. If you are happy with the result, that should be enough for you." }, { "id": "t1_oldanko", "author": "/u/blacklab", "updated": "2026-05-12T13:32:06+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tacr2d/psa_this_is_the_internet_and_people_lie/oldanko/", "content": "Bro I fired at 25 and currently live in Laos on 1.49 per day" }, { "id": "t1_oldht5u", "author": "/u/LaOnionLaUnion", "updated": "2026-05-12T14:07:02+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tacr2d/psa_this_is_the_internet_and_people_lie/oldht5u/", "content": "I found someone on another sub’s thread admitting that they used to LARP in some fire subs." }, { "id": "t1_oldo7pt", "author": "/u/flappysack-", "updated": "2026-05-12T14:36:26+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tacr2d/psa_this_is_the_internet_and_people_lie/oldo7pt/", "content": "We are in the tail end of a massive bull market. If there was a time for high net worth people to exist this is it, that covid stimulus drastically eroded purchasing power." }, { "id": "t1_ole0531", "author": "/u/Normal_Meringue_1253", "updated": "2026-05-12T15:29:33+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tacr2d/psa_this_is_the_internet_and_people_lie/ole0531/", "content": "Okay but the people in the AI space are making a killing according to wsj article yesterday so I can’t imagine it is that implausible" }, { "id": "t1_oleajn3", "author": "/u/Remarkable_Mix_806", "updated": "2026-05-12T16:15:18+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tacr2d/psa_this_is_the_internet_and_people_lie/oleajn3/", "content": "the only thing i semi-trust is mod verified on r/fatfire ." }, { "id": "t1_oleg50m", "author": "/u/Consistent_Rate_353", "updated": "2026-05-12T16:40:11+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tacr2d/psa_this_is_the_internet_and_people_lie/oleg50m/", "content": "I realized how incredibly blessed I am many years ago when I told the truth and nobody believed me because it was the internet. That wasn't even talking about myself. I'm just an accountant working with the general public and I happened to mention one of the weird things my clients do for a living." }, { "id": "t1_olfppki", "author": "/u/LevelUp84", "updated": "2026-05-12T20:02:59+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tacr2d/psa_this_is_the_internet_and_people_lie/olfppki/", "content": "Private accounts with less than one day on reddit are the tell for me." }, { "id": "t1_olfr8by", "author": "/u/worktogethernow", "updated": "2026-05-12T20:09:55+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tacr2d/psa_this_is_the_internet_and_people_lie/olfr8by/", "content": "I'm shocked!" }, { "id": "t1_olldq71", "author": "/u/oneadvocate_bert", "updated": "2026-05-13T16:23:21+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tacr2d/psa_this_is_the_internet_and_people_lie/olldq71/", "content": "Mostly people are just flexing with lies thats it and its sad at the same time." }, { "id": "t1_ollng5w", "author": "/u/zinga_zing", "updated": "2026-05-13T17:06:14+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tacr2d/psa_this_is_the_internet_and_people_lie/ollng5w/", "content": "What a colossal waste of time to sit around making up life stories you wish you had for internet forums." }, { "id": "t1_oloe7n0", "author": "/u/Axolotis", "updated": "2026-05-14T01:11:17+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tacr2d/psa_this_is_the_internet_and_people_lie/oloe7n0/", "content": "There have been some huge stock market wins recently. Some posts may be legitimate." }, { "id": "t1_om8cbsh", "author": "/u/babyeviee", "updated": "2026-05-17T01:32:30+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tacr2d/psa_this_is_the_internet_and_people_lie/om8cbsh/", "content": "It’s crazy how many 24-year-olds on here claim a 2 million dollar net worth but forgot they asked how to open a basic savings account three months ago." }, { "id": "t1_omhuyh2", "author": "/u/Spartikis", "updated": "2026-05-18T15:04:15+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tacr2d/psa_this_is_the_internet_and_people_lie/omhuyh2/", "content": "There are some liars here. Some are desperate for attention; others have some unknown hatred of the FIRE movement. But there are also some young adults killing it.\n There are some people who are very driven, they finish a 4 year degree in 4 years with zero debt, work multiple internships and saved tens of thousands of dollars during college, start their 6 figure job at age 22, get married at 23, time the housing market perfectly when buying their first home at 24, pay off the home in a couple years, hit $1mill NW by age 34s and $2mil by age 40. (That's my journey haha).\n I also know entrepreneurs who are my age and have 10x my wealth, they own multiple businesses, rental properties, vacation properties that cash flow, luxury cars they sell for 2x what they pay, literally everything they touch turns a profit. I'm over here cutting coupons to save $5 on a large pizza and they are flipping a car for $50,000+ profit.\n Someone with $1mil NW looks at someone with $10mil NW and thinks how the f**k is that even possible? And someone with $100k NW looks at someone with $1mil NW and says the same thing." }, { "id": "t1_omib03o", "author": "/u/LavishnessBig8906", "updated": "2026-05-18T16:17:16+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tacr2d/psa_this_is_the_internet_and_people_lie/omib03o/", "content": "Yeah, and even when people aren’t lying, there’s usually a ton of missing context behind the numbers.\n A “28 year old with $1.5m net worth” could mean:\n\n- inherited money,\n- a huge bull market run,\n- living at home for 8 years,\n- dual FAANG incomes,\n- crypto luck,\n- unrealized equity,\n- or just straight up selective storytelling. The dangerous part is people quietly recalibrating what “normal” looks like based on anonymous internet posts. You end up feeling behind when you’re actually doing perfectly fine relative to real-world households.\n I still like FIRE communities because the mindset is useful, but treating Reddit net worth posts as representative data is probably a mistake." }, { "id": "t1_oopqvbc", "author": "/u/AcanthocephalaLost36", "updated": "2026-05-30T06:13:16+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tacr2d/psa_this_is_the_internet_and_people_lie/oopqvbc/", "content": "I would never count my unrealized equity you never know… I worked at an AI researched lab before they were 200 people in the company. I was there 1.5 years and even though the company is successful I won’t claim any money until it’s in real dollars in my account. Having worked in tech for 10+ years I’ve seen multi hundred million dollar companies drop in valuation and employees get screwed bc they purchased homes with said valuations in mind" }, { "id": "t1_omqq8jj", "author": "/u/zamarac", "updated": "2026-05-19T20:44:42+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tacr2d/psa_this_is_the_internet_and_people_lie/omqq8jj/", "content": "Some people on FIRE subs definitely exaggerate their numbers, but the funny part is the advice is still usually useful. You can tell pretty quickly who’s actually lived through the stuff they talk about." }, { "id": "t1_omyvx79", "author": "/u/CrankedVintageAmp", "updated": "2026-05-21T00:46:58+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tacr2d/psa_this_is_the_internet_and_people_lie/omyvx79/", "content": "Thank you for reminding us that people lie just for the fun of it, and to hurt others. Also, comparison is the thief of joy." }, { "id": "t1_on5cfzj", "author": "/u/covert_capybara", "updated": "2026-05-21T23:05:48+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tacr2d/psa_this_is_the_internet_and_people_lie/on5cfzj/", "content": "There’s about 10 plus posts I’ve seen across reddit that say the exact millionaire story but their post history is unavailable or not lining up with the story. I think they’re using AI" }, { "id": "t1_oo31yah", "author": "/u/EndFree3378", "updated": "2026-05-27T01:16:20+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tacr2d/psa_this_is_the_internet_and_people_lie/oo31yah/", "content": "sour grapes." }, { "id": "t1_oo938r0", "author": "/u/CoconutCandid1608", "updated": "2026-05-27T21:21:44+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tacr2d/psa_this_is_the_internet_and_people_lie/oo938r0/", "content": "I keep getting ads on Instagram telling me I should be making 100k a month as a life coach. Thats laughable for almost everyone. Same vibe" }, { "id": "t1_ooppytd", "author": "/u/AcanthocephalaLost36", "updated": "2026-05-30T06:05:57+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tacr2d/psa_this_is_the_internet_and_people_lie/ooppytd/", "content": "That ad must be making money hand over fist! What a racket!" }, { "id": "t1_oog9wj3", "author": "/u/Interesting_Can_2071", "updated": "2026-05-28T21:26:41+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tacr2d/psa_this_is_the_internet_and_people_lie/oog9wj3/", "content": "i feel the same, have had many similar experiences" }, { "id": "t1_oospmrt", "author": "/u/exotickeystroke", "updated": "2026-05-30T17:35:28+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tacr2d/psa_this_is_the_internet_and_people_lie/oospmrt/", "content": "Good point to remember! It can definitely make you feel like you are slacking off when looking at some unproven figures on the internet. Keep your own pace and remember that the only success is compared to your initial performance! Do your own race!" }, { "id": "t1_oovrneu", "author": "/u/NotSoWiseLately", "updated": "2026-05-31T03:47:54+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tacr2d/psa_this_is_the_internet_and_people_lie/oovrneu/", "content": ""JuSt MakE YouR OwN FoOD BrO"" }, { "id": "t1_ooz2jkz", "author": "/u/Fit_Philosopher_2878", "updated": "2026-05-31T17:05:26+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tacr2d/psa_this_is_the_internet_and_people_lie/ooz2jkz/", "content": "I was about to join this subreddit. Thank you Thomas." }, { "id": "t1_op22ct1", "author": "/u/Kriya198888", "updated": "2026-06-01T02:40:59+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tacr2d/psa_this_is_the_internet_and_people_lie/op22ct1/", "content": "I have no idea why people need to do such things" }, { "id": "t1_opf6ly2", "author": "/u/FIREDoppel", "updated": "2026-06-03T00:15:38+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tacr2d/psa_this_is_the_internet_and_people_lie/opf6ly2/", "content": "There is some great financial advice on Reddit, but you have to wade through the ick to get to it." }, { "id": "t1_ol8o49p", "author": "/u/ToastBalancer", "updated": "2026-05-11T19:51:28+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tacr2d/psa_this_is_the_internet_and_people_lie/ol8o49p/", "content": "PSA: work on your insecurity if you feel bad when others are doing well\n Seriously, it is such cope to think that everyone else who is doing better is lying. This is a fire subreddit. Obviously you are going to find more successful people here. If your ego can’t handle it then just go r/povertyfinance or something" }, { "id": "t1_ol8yelt", "author": "/u/Powerful_Tip_7260", "updated": "2026-05-11T20:38:23+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tacr2d/psa_this_is_the_internet_and_people_lie/ol8yelt/", "content": "It doesn't matter, This is a learning process. If they have millions or do not have millions, it is irrelevant." }, { "id": "t1_ol9zeif", "author": "/u/MudBug9000", "updated": "2026-05-11T23:53:10+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tacr2d/psa_this_is_the_internet_and_people_lie/ol9zeif/", "content": ""I do underwater basket weaving and my husband gives out free hand jobs behind the local 7-11. Our budget is $10 million"...." }, { "id": "t1_ol8d91t", "author": "/u/TurtleSandwich0", "updated": "2026-05-11T19:01:18+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tacr2d/psa_this_is_the_internet_and_people_lie/ol8d91t/", "content": "That's not true, the Internet police said doing that is illegal! They would put you in Internet jail while you wait trial facing your Internet judge. Then you would get sent to Internet prison where you would serve on a block chain gang." }, { "id": "t1_ol8m9la", "author": "/u/Next_Permission3353", "updated": "2026-05-11T19:42:59+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tacr2d/psa_this_is_the_internet_and_people_lie/ol8m9la/", "content": "I mean, that's just another way to say that you're coping without saying you're coping.\n Why does it matter that people lie about their NW? Lol. Seems like it really affects your self-esteem and you really need to know if that 22 year old really makes 400k." } ] }, { "source": "r/Fire top month", "id": "t3_1t77pih", "title": "7 years into FIRE: I figured out why this sub is full of \"I retired but I'm miserable\" posts", "author": "/u/babaykin", "updated": "2026-05-08T13:18:04+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77pih/7_years_into_fire_i_figured_out_why_this_sub_is/", "content": "Quick disclaimer first: English isn't my native language. I'm Russian. I'll try to write clearly, but I'll sound weird in places. Please focus on the idea, not the grammar.\n I retired in 2018. Actually retired — stopped exchanging time for money. Lived off my portfolio for 7 years. Survived two market crashes. I'm fine.\n But that's not what I want to talk about.\n Every second post in this sub is some version of:\n\n- "I FIRE'd and now I'm depressed"\n- "Six months in, I don't know who I am anymore"\n- "My wife still works, we're falling apart"\n- "I have everything I planned for, why am I empty?" I've been reading these for years. Most of you got the diagnosis wrong.\n You're miserable because the job was a giant noise-canceller, and now it's off.\n When you work 50–60 hours a week, you have a built-in distraction. Slack pings, deadlines, performance reviews, that one annoying coworker named Brad. Your brain has no spare cycles for the questions that actually matter: who am I, do my kids like me, have I ever done anything that meant something, am I a good husband.\n Retire, and the headphones come off. Now you can hear everything. The bad relationship with your spouse you've been ignoring. The fact that all your "friends" were actually colleagues. The hobbies you said you'd return to "when you have time," but actually you don't enjoy them anymore — you just enjoyed the idea of them.\n FIRE just turns the lights on in a room you'd been pretending was empty.\n Here's a thing that might help. In Russian, we have two completely different words for what English collapses into "work":\n\n- работа (rabota) — exchanging your time and energy for money\n- труд (trud) — applying yourself to something meaningful, paid or not I haven't done RABOTA since 2018. But I've never stopped doing TRUD — not for a single day. This distinction is what most of you missed during the accumulation phase.\n You spent 10–15 years optimizing for the first thing. Savings rate, 4% rule, asset allocation, the spreadsheets. Nobody warned you that the second matters way more once the FI number is hit.\n What I see in retired FIRE people who are happy versus miserable:\n The miserable ones optimize for "doing nothing." They genuinely believe the goal is the beach, the hammock, the no-alarm-clock life. Six months in, the brain starts eating itself. Brains didn't evolve to do nothing — they evolved to solve problems. Remove the problems and the brain invents new ones. Usually anxiety, weird portfolio obsessions, midnight existential spirals, vague resentment toward the spouse who still has structure.\n The happy ones are building something. Doesn't matter what or whether it pays. A garden, a small business they don't need, a YouTube channel with 200 subscribers, helping their nephew with college, learning Mandarin, restoring old motorcycles, teaching for free at a local school. They have something specific to wake up for.\n Concrete, in case it's useful. Here's a normal year for me:\n\n- Summer: I live in a village in Belarus. 25 chickens. A vegetable garden. Real physical labor.\n- Winter: I write. Books, a Telegram channel that I funded out of pocket for years (~$2,500/month before it earned anything), articles, video scripts. I employ a small team of freelancers.\n- Year-round: I help my mother (until she died of cancer in 2022), my daughters, my ex-wife, my sister, my nieces and nephews. With money, time, attention, and showing up.\n- I train boxing. Hike. Watch hockey games with friends. Read constantly. Argue with strangers on the internet (clearly). None of this pays directly. Some of it is even expensive. But all of it is труд .\n My brain is busy. My calendar is full. I have skin in the game on multiple things. I solve real problems daily. Specific people need me for specific reasons.\n If I were sitting on a beach in Bali drinking from a coconut, I'd be writing one of those "FIRE didn't make me happy" posts within a year. Zero doubt.\n So what should you actually do? Some life advice from someone seven years out.\n Stop treating FIRE as the goal. It's a foundation. You don't celebrate when you finish pouring concrete — that's when the actual building starts.\n Before you hit your number, two questions:\n\n- What would you do if money were completely irrelevant? Start doing some of it now, on weekends, badly. If you can't answer — you're not ready to retire. The number doesn't matter. You'll hit it and be lost.\n- Who needs you specifically? Not "donate to charity" abstractly. Which actual humans need what you can give them — time, attention, mentorship, money, a phone call once a week. Without the giving-back part, something rots inside you. I don't have a clean theory for why. I've just watched it happen to too many people to ignore. The freedom part of FIRE is real. I'm grateful for it every day. When my mom got cancer in 2021, I dropped everything for 12 months and stayed with her. None of my entrepreneur friends could have done that — they had clients, payrolls, partners, board meetings. I had a brokerage account.\n That's what the money actually buys. Everything else is vacation photography.\n The misery on this sub is people discovering, in their 40s, that they optimized two decades for the wrong KPI. You spent 15 years getting the math right. Now you have 50 more to figure out what to do every Tuesday.\n That's the actual prize. Not the beach.\n The misery you're seeing on this sub isn't a flaw of FIRE. It's people discovering, in their 40s, that they spent two decades optimizing for the wrong KPI. Money was the easy part.\n Be ready for the hard part.\n submitted by /u/babaykin\n [link] [comments]", "contentHtml": "

Quick disclaimer first: English isn't my native language. I'm Russian. I'll try to write clearly, but I'll sound weird in places. Please focus on the idea, not the grammar.

I retired in 2018. Actually retired — stopped exchanging time for money. Lived off my portfolio for 7 years. Survived two market crashes. I'm fine.

But that's not what I want to talk about.

Every second post in this sub is some version of:

I've been reading these for years. Most of you got the diagnosis wrong.

You're miserable because the job was a giant noise-canceller, and now it's off.

When you work 50–60 hours a week, you have a built-in distraction. Slack pings, deadlines, performance reviews, that one annoying coworker named Brad. Your brain has no spare cycles for the questions that actually matter: who am I, do my kids like me, have I ever done anything that meant something, am I a good husband.

Retire, and the headphones come off. Now you can hear everything. The bad relationship with your spouse you've been ignoring. The fact that all your "friends" were actually colleagues. The hobbies you said you'd return to "when you have time," but actually you don't enjoy them anymore — you just enjoyed the idea of them.

FIRE just turns the lights on in a room you'd been pretending was empty.

Here's a thing that might help. In Russian, we have two completely different words for what English collapses into "work":

I haven't done RABOTA since 2018. But I've never stopped doing TRUD — not for a single day. This distinction is what most of you missed during the accumulation phase.

You spent 10–15 years optimizing for the first thing. Savings rate, 4% rule, asset allocation, the spreadsheets. Nobody warned you that the second matters way more once the FI number is hit.

What I see in retired FIRE people who are happy versus miserable:

The miserable ones optimize for "doing nothing." They genuinely believe the goal is the beach, the hammock, the no-alarm-clock life. Six months in, the brain starts eating itself. Brains didn't evolve to do nothing — they evolved to solve problems. Remove the problems and the brain invents new ones. Usually anxiety, weird portfolio obsessions, midnight existential spirals, vague resentment toward the spouse who still has structure.

The happy ones are building something. Doesn't matter what or whether it pays. A garden, a small business they don't need, a YouTube channel with 200 subscribers, helping their nephew with college, learning Mandarin, restoring old motorcycles, teaching for free at a local school. They have something specific to wake up for.

Concrete, in case it's useful. Here's a normal year for me:

None of this pays directly. Some of it is even expensive. But all of it is труд.

My brain is busy. My calendar is full. I have skin in the game on multiple things. I solve real problems daily. Specific people need me for specific reasons.

If I were sitting on a beach in Bali drinking from a coconut, I'd be writing one of those "FIRE didn't make me happy" posts within a year. Zero doubt.

So what should you actually do? Some life advice from someone seven years out.

Stop treating FIRE as the goal. It's a foundation. You don't celebrate when you finish pouring concrete — that's when the actual building starts.

Before you hit your number, two questions:

  1. What would you do if money were completely irrelevant? Start doing some of it now, on weekends, badly. If you can't answer — you're not ready to retire. The number doesn't matter. You'll hit it and be lost.
  2. Who needs you specifically? Not "donate to charity" abstractly. Which actual humans need what you can give them — time, attention, mentorship, money, a phone call once a week. Without the giving-back part, something rots inside you. I don't have a clean theory for why. I've just watched it happen to too many people to ignore.

The freedom part of FIRE is real. I'm grateful for it every day. When my mom got cancer in 2021, I dropped everything for 12 months and stayed with her. None of my entrepreneur friends could have done that — they had clients, payrolls, partners, board meetings. I had a brokerage account.

That's what the money actually buys. Everything else is vacation photography.

The misery on this sub is people discovering, in their 40s, that they optimized two decades for the wrong KPI. You spent 15 years getting the math right. Now you have 50 more to figure out what to do every Tuesday.

That's the actual prize. Not the beach.

The misery you're seeing on this sub isn't a flaw of FIRE. It's people discovering, in their 40s, that they spent two decades optimizing for the wrong KPI. Money was the easy part.

Be ready for the hard part.

submitted by /u/babaykin
[link] [comments]", "comments": [ { "id": "t1_oko0yqy", "author": "/u/DuvishLabs", "updated": "2026-05-08T16:30:49+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77pih/7_years_into_fire_i_figured_out_why_this_sub_is/oko0yqy/", "content": "Suspicion of AI generated content does not justify incivility. Your personal opinion of how AI generated content should be moderated also does not justify incivility.\n With that being said, this post has been locked." }, { "id": "t1_okmy0z5", "author": "/u/wradam", "updated": "2026-05-08T13:35:38+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77pih/7_years_into_fire_i_figured_out_why_this_sub_is/okmy0z5/", "content": "Babaykin is actually one Anar Babayev, Russian F.I.R.E. blogger and influencer, also wrote a couple of books on FIRE in Russian and a book about money psychology. This is the first time I noticed him on Reddit." }, { "id": "t1_oknh67i", "author": "/u/smoochiep00", "updated": "2026-05-08T15:03:36+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77pih/7_years_into_fire_i_figured_out_why_this_sub_is/oknh67i/", "content": "Sartre once said "everything is understood except how to live".\n Many people on this sub are successful because from school, they have been aceing exams, working hard, living below their means as a choice and delaying gratification.\n When that time comes, remaining committed to meaningful activities including community service, educating and mentoring others etc is essential. Ditto for finding social engagement which many of us get without asking for it in the workplace.\n FIRE brings new challenges." }, { "id": "t1_okna6lk", "author": "/u/andoCalrissiano", "updated": "2026-05-08T14:32:26+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77pih/7_years_into_fire_i_figured_out_why_this_sub_is/okna6lk/", "content": "write more! This was great after I got over the initial disgust for AI content" }, { "id": "t1_oknjvkf", "author": "/u/DeadFacesInMyPocket", "updated": "2026-05-08T15:15:36+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77pih/7_years_into_fire_i_figured_out_why_this_sub_is/oknjvkf/", "content": "There is a big difference between literal "AI Slop" made by bots and people just using AI to reformat what they've already written—potentially in a different language. Does every single post have to have improper grammar now just to be believable? That is ridiculous and AI would just catch on and start writing things imperfectly anyway so...\n I read the full post and it was great. I don't care if it was translated or even fully reformatted using AI. The information is excellent and true. Not every grammar-perfect post is AI. I use long dashes and bullet points all the time. I am just waiting for the day someone calls me a bot lol.\n It isn't hard to make a long dash:\n\n- on mobild you can just hold the dash button then select the long dash (same as you would a diacritic like é)\n\n- on a desktop you just hold the alt key then type 0151, then release the alt key and boom, you have a long dash. On other systems (like MS Word) you can just type 2 dashes in a row then after the next word when you hit space it will (usually) automatically merge them into a long dash— but anyway, I am off track.\n Does this post look like AI up to this point?\n I am genuinely curious because this is how I normally write most of the time and it is quite close to OP. I got in the habit from work emails, actually. However, now I do the same for texts (although my spelling is often quite bad in texts), personal emails, messaging in general (even in Slack or Discord I will use long dashes and bullet points or numbered lists). The only exception really is Snapchat which I consistently don't use correct grammar or spelling in. Half of my messages probably look drunk lol." }, { "id": "t1_oknkv09", "author": "/u/andoCalrissiano", "updated": "2026-05-08T15:19:54+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77pih/7_years_into_fire_i_figured_out_why_this_sub_is/oknkv09/", "content": "I don’t know, it’s vibes. Your writing did not trigger AI alarms in my head. It’s not just dashes….\n It’s the contrast framing (it’s not this it’s that). It’s the neat headings and intro sentences, it’s the heavy use of short sentences under 7 words, the punchy conclusions, the use of certain words like “genuinely”" }, { "id": "t1_oknvy2l", "author": "/u/I_SingOnACake", "updated": "2026-05-08T16:08:22+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77pih/7_years_into_fire_i_figured_out_why_this_sub_is/oknvy2l/", "content": "Also the weird analogies.\n Edit to clarify/answer the below question:\n The diagnosis is wrong analogy with no lead up. It immediately pivots to the noise cancelling headphones. Then we have the classic turning the light on or off. Pouring concrete. Vacation photography. KPIs.\n Thrre are other tells, like the excessive use of quotes for no reason. The pithy list that ends with your annoying coworker named Brad. Etc. it's pretty obvious if you know what to look for. The analogies are stale. The flow is the same in every post. The same buzz words. It's killing individuality.\n One of my favorite things with posts from people whose original language is not English, is that their grammar can give unique clues as to their original language. Running their writing through an AI filter takes out the humanity and individuality and we are left with the same stale posts over and over.\n Even the AI slop that's designed to seem real by using bad spelling or Internet slang has the same stale flow and analogies. I'm not knocking the ideas expressed in this post, I just wish we could connect human to human instead of human to ai to human to ai etc." }, { "id": "t1_oknye12", "author": "/u/data_ferret", "updated": "2026-05-08T16:19:17+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77pih/7_years_into_fire_i_figured_out_why_this_sub_is/oknye12/", "content": "Can you point to a specific analogy that feels weird to you?" }, { "id": "t1_oknudjh", "author": "/u/LightTmroWithToday", "updated": "2026-05-08T16:01:22+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77pih/7_years_into_fire_i_figured_out_why_this_sub_is/oknudjh/", "content": "I know that you know this is a man that wrote this, but your mention of AI made me think about it - - AI.\n Fact is I didn't even consider that it might be helped by/was AI, he writes like I used to write and sometimes I still do--- but I admit to being lazy When using my phone (voice type) and I use a lot of * and ---. I also don't always check it put down the right word...\n When something is well done these days, it's so easy to say AI did it, we forget that intelligent people who have certain skills, do still exist. Suggesting something is or might be AI simply because a person is a good thinker and writer, formats a discussion in a way that makes it easy to read & understand what is being stated, And last but not least, chooses word choices That help draw a person in or help them to consider things differently than they might have... It's sort of a slam against humans as a whole, as if we aren't capable ourselves. *Though there might be some truth in that, as far as the newer generations go haha\n Now don't get me wrong, while I prefer to listen to old vinyl & there is nothing like it, good music is good music!" }, { "id": "t1_oknsvtd", "author": "/u/Boring_Reference2862", "updated": "2026-05-08T15:54:50+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77pih/7_years_into_fire_i_figured_out_why_this_sub_is/oknsvtd/", "content": "Never understood this gripe. This is not school or work. It's reddit. Why isn't the sole focus on the message?" }, { "id": "t1_oknwer0", "author": "/u/Temporary-Guidance20", "updated": "2026-05-08T16:10:25+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77pih/7_years_into_fire_i_figured_out_why_this_sub_is/oknwer0/", "content": "This. It’s clearly what is slop and what is not. If it’s genuine content polished by modern tools then it’s halal🙏" }, { "id": "t1_oknqccd", "author": "/u/QuirkyRing3521", "updated": "2026-05-08T15:43:49+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77pih/7_years_into_fire_i_figured_out_why_this_sub_is/oknqccd/", "content": "Simply good international english. Not AI." }, { "id": "t1_okn0rqm", "author": "/u/DJinKC", "updated": "2026-05-08T13:48:59+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77pih/7_years_into_fire_i_figured_out_why_this_sub_is/okn0rqm/", "content": "People are miserable in FIRE because they have no meaningful outlets for their talents, energy, and time. "Not working" is great. "Not contributing anything useful to anyone" is depressing." }, { "id": "t1_okn54ih", "author": "/u/nhh", "updated": "2026-05-08T14:09:22+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77pih/7_years_into_fire_i_figured_out_why_this_sub_is/okn54ih/", "content": "Bulgarian lurker here. This stands out to me bc my parents are exactly in this way - retired, not early.\n How do they fill their time? By working themselves to death at their datcha (country house). They grow most of their food. Dad constantly works on improving something for the house, and so on." }, { "id": "t1_oknvvo2", "author": "/u/krushet0", "updated": "2026-05-08T16:08:04+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77pih/7_years_into_fire_i_figured_out_why_this_sub_is/oknvvo2/", "content": "Ah fellow Bulgarian lurker!" }, { "id": "t1_okmxqej", "author": "/u/Nomromz", "updated": "2026-05-08T13:34:11+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77pih/7_years_into_fire_i_figured_out_why_this_sub_is/okmxqej/", "content": "I'm not sure why people hate "AI slop" so much.\n The message behind this post is clear and very easy to read; it is a stark contrast to half the posts on here that can't string a sentence together or leave out very pertinent information.\n This post is something that should resonate a lot with many of the people in this subreddit and I got something out of it even though it's "slop."\n People are going to have to learn to deal with AI because it's not going away. You can learn from anything, even "slop."\n This post is going to generate far more discussion than the comments that waste my time saying "slop! AI Sloooooooop, etc"\n Those comments are far worse than the actual "AI slop" in my opinion. They actually contribute nothing to the discussion and I don't need them to identify whether something is AI generated or not." }, { "id": "t1_okn3mwx", "author": "/u/JohnnySpot2000", "updated": "2026-05-08T14:02:29+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77pih/7_years_into_fire_i_figured_out_why_this_sub_is/okn3mwx/", "content": "I want to hear what actual humans have to say, even if they don’t say it well. And I got news for you. AI might be ‘here to stay’, but it has become clear that an overwhelming majority of people don’t like AI, don’t trust AI, and don’t think we are doing enough to make sure AI doesn’t destroy our lives." }, { "id": "t1_okn4syj", "author": "/u/Nomromz", "updated": "2026-05-08T14:07:54+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77pih/7_years_into_fire_i_figured_out_why_this_sub_is/okn4syj/", "content": "But you are hearing what humans have to say. OP had to direct the AI to write about certain topics and reference specific things that I certainly never would have referenced (Russian words for work for example).\n Would this be any different than OP having a translator or proofreader check their post and editing it for them prior to posting?\n I also wholeheartedly disagree that "an overwhelming majority of people don't like AI." That's the reddit hivemind speaking again.\n I work with a number of lawyers and all of them talk about how impressive AI is and how the correct usage of AI is cutting down the hours they spend looking up case histories. Obviously they have to continue to proofread and look over the sources that the AI uses, but it still saves A LOT of time.\n I can only imagine how it's being used in other industries." }, { "id": "t1_okne5q6", "author": "/u/Kinnins0n", "updated": "2026-05-08T14:50:16+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77pih/7_years_into_fire_i_figured_out_why_this_sub_is/okne5q6/", "content": "Yeah there’s something like 800M users of chatGPT but surely “people hate AI”.\n Don’t get me wrong, i specifically hate openAI and Altman for what they are. I just think it’s deluded to imagine that the majority of people viscerally reject ai writing. in fact i’m sure a lot of folks would not notice in OP’s post the AI veneer.\n With all that out if the way, I think OP used AI correctly. He’s seemingly not a native speaker but had a thesis he wanted to articulate. AI went and added the classic linkedin-sounding metaphors (noise cancelling headphones, turning on the light in an empty room), but the points stand and OP did a great job at diagnosing the recent plague of “FIRE sucks” posts we’ve been having on this sub." }, { "id": "t1_okne5r7", "author": "/u/JohnnySpot2000", "updated": "2026-05-08T14:50:16+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77pih/7_years_into_fire_i_figured_out_why_this_sub_is/okne5r7/", "content": "People have been polled on this: https://www.nbcnews.com/politics/politics-news/poll-majority-voters-say-risks-ai-outweigh-benefits-rcna262196" }, { "id": "t1_okngjyn", "author": "/u/JohnnySpot2000", "updated": "2026-05-08T15:00:52+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77pih/7_years_into_fire_i_figured_out_why_this_sub_is/okngjyn/", "content": "Yeah, I was just talking to my friends yesterday about how great it is that our children might have no opportunities to get into the workforce because AI has taken away the ‘entry level’ work. /S" }, { "id": "t1_okn6bx6", "author": "/u/hensothor", "updated": "2026-05-08T14:14:57+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77pih/7_years_into_fire_i_figured_out_why_this_sub_is/okn6bx6/", "content": "AI is an incredible tool for allowing better communication across languages that simply could not happen before. Focus on the ideas because getting hung up on the use of AI doesn’t mean they aren’t human ideas." }, { "id": "t1_okn5wi4", "author": "/u/ImPapaNoff", "updated": "2026-05-08T14:12:58+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77pih/7_years_into_fire_i_figured_out_why_this_sub_is/okn5wi4/", "content": "clear that an overwhelming majority of people don’t like AI\n I agree that that seems to be the case on the echo chambers of social media." }, { "id": "t1_oknbq7v", "author": "/u/JohnnySpot2000", "updated": "2026-05-08T14:39:25+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77pih/7_years_into_fire_i_figured_out_why_this_sub_is/oknbq7v/", "content": "https://www.nbcnews.com/politics/politics-news/poll-majority-voters-say-risks-ai-outweigh-benefits-rcna262196" }, { "id": "t1_okncab7", "author": "/u/ImPapaNoff", "updated": "2026-05-08T14:41:56+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77pih/7_years_into_fire_i_figured_out_why_this_sub_is/okncab7/", "content": "Ok let's assume 1000 people interviewed by phone are truly representative of the general public. Do you define 57% 46% of people as an "overwhelming majority"?" }, { "id": "t1_oknelxm", "author": "/u/JohnnySpot2000", "updated": "2026-05-08T14:52:15+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77pih/7_years_into_fire_i_figured_out_why_this_sub_is/oknelxm/", "content": "“26% have positive feelings about AI. That ain’t great for AI. Also, you’re gonna give me the ‘polls can’t be relied on’ defense, really?" }, { "id": "t1_okntplp", "author": "/u/ImPapaNoff", "updated": "2026-05-08T15:58:25+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77pih/7_years_into_fire_i_figured_out_why_this_sub_is/okntplp/", "content": "Ok let's look at the raw data here.\n Q7 Now, (I'm going to read you the/please read the following) names of several terms, public figures, places, andgroups and (PHONE: I'd like you to) rate your feelings toward each one as very positive, somewhat positive,neutral, somewhat negative, or very negative. If you don't know the name, please just (say so/indicate that).The (first/next) one is… (RANDOMIZE)\n This was the high level prompt given in the survey. The possible answers were from "Very positive" to "Very negative".\n For the topic of AI the answers split\n 5/21/27/24/22 (with 1% answering don't know)\n So yes that puts 26% explicitly positive and actually only 46% negative (not sure why the article claims over 50% when the survey it links to is pretty clear on the numbers).\n Do you feel that that very generically worded and high level question being answered "Very negative" by only 22% of people supports your claim that:\n the overwhelming majority of people don't like Al, don't trust Al, and don't think we are doing enough to make sure Al doesn't destroy our lives.\n And just to address another point.\n Also, you’re gonna give me the ‘polls can’t be relied on’ defense, really?\n Just to be clear I very explicitly said let's assume this is valid. Whether 1000 NBC news viewers are generally representative of a country of 340 million people is questionable but I'm fine talking about it as though they are.\n Direct source for reference: https://www.documentcloud.org/documents/27777984-nbc-news-march-2026-poll-03-08-2024-release-final/" }, { "id": "t1_oknv16w", "author": "/u/JohnnySpot2000", "updated": "2026-05-08T16:04:18+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77pih/7_years_into_fire_i_figured_out_why_this_sub_is/oknv16w/", "content": "You insinuated that only in the 'echo chambers of social media' is there heavy anti0AI sentiment, and I was pointing out that no, it was not just limited to the 'echo chambers of social media'. I mean, what do you expect?" }, { "id": "t1_oknvc5j", "author": "/u/ImPapaNoff", "updated": "2026-05-08T16:05:39+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77pih/7_years_into_fire_i_figured_out_why_this_sub_is/oknvc5j/", "content": "I expected some sort of evidence that\n the overwhelming majority of people don't like Al, don't trust Al, and don't think we are doing enough to make sure Al doesn't destroy our lives.\n Do you feel you've successfully provided that?" }, { "id": "t1_oknw27k", "author": "/u/JohnnySpot2000", "updated": "2026-05-08T16:08:53+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77pih/7_years_into_fire_i_figured_out_why_this_sub_is/oknw27k/", "content": "Here's an overview, generated by Gemini AI. Forgive the highlighting, which I can't seem to remove:\n As of early 2026, a majority of Americans (roughly 55% to 77%) are wary of AI, with many citing concerns about its impact on daily life and humanity. While AI adoption is high—with 35% using tools weekly—only about 5% trust AI "a lot," and many fear its potential for harm and job displacement. [ 1 , 2 ]\n Key Findings on AI Trust (2025-2026):\n\n- Widespread Skepticism: 50% of Americans are more concerned than excited about AI use in daily life, while only 10% are more excited than concerned.\n- Low "High" Trust: Only 5% of adults in the US trust AI a lot.\n- Threat Perception: 77% of Americans are concerned that AI could pose a threat to humanity.\n- Job Security Fears: 30% of employed Americans are concerned that AI may make their jobs obsolete, a figure that has increased from 21% in early 2025.\n- Business Distrust: Despite slight improvements in public confidence, only 31% of Americans have "a lot" or "some" trust in businesses to use AI responsibly. [ 1 , 2 , 3 , 4 ] Key Demographic and Social Trends:\n\n- Generational Gaps: Gen Z leads with 51% in weekly AI tool usage, showing higher adoption and more optimism compared to older generations, yet skepticism persists across all age groups.\n- Political Divisions: By March 2025, 54% of Republicans and Republican-leaning independents had at least some trust in the U.S. to regulate AI, compared with 36% of Democrats.\n- Specific Industry Distrust: Trust is lowest in finance (19%) and healthcare (23%) applications.\n- Self-Driving Fears: A 2025 AAA survey found that 61% of people in the US fear self-driving cars, with only 13% trusting them. [ 1 , 2 , 3 , 4 ] General Sentiment:\n\n- Regulation Demand: Roughly 74% of local U.S. policymakers agree that AI should be regulated.\n- Hesitance to Delegate: 68% of Americans would not let AI act without specific approval.\n- Mixed Opinions on Benefits: While 55% of Americans think AI will do more harm than good in daily life, many still find it useful for quick tasks." }, { "id": "t1_oknctmw", "author": "/u/iam-123-456-789", "updated": "2026-05-08T14:44:20+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77pih/7_years_into_fire_i_figured_out_why_this_sub_is/oknctmw/", "content": "but it has become clear that an overwhelming majority of people don’t like AI, don’t trust AI, and don’t think we are doing enough to make sure AI doesn’t destroy our lives.\n Why does any of that matter. It's here to stay. Like other things people dislike, there's a need to learn to co-exist with it. Some people love it, some people hate it. To each their own." }, { "id": "t1_okn8aah", "author": "/u/Catspiration2", "updated": "2026-05-08T14:23:53+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77pih/7_years_into_fire_i_figured_out_why_this_sub_is/okn8aah/", "content": "People likely felt the same way about the Internet when it first rolled out. But I understand." }, { "id": "t1_oknitfi", "author": "/u/lab-gone-wrong", "updated": "2026-05-08T15:10:55+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77pih/7_years_into_fire_i_figured_out_why_this_sub_is/oknitfi/", "content": "I'm not sure why people hate "AI slop" so much.\n Because it's full of filler, platitudes, unchecked assumptions and low effort. I don't want to read 10 paragraphs of stuff an OP generated from 3 bullet points and a canned "style and tone" prompt they run everything through before hitting send.\n The entire public space has been taken over by ChatGPT/Claude corpospeak and it sucks. Like my company CEO following me everywhere I go, personally editing everything I read to be 3x longer and purged of personality." }, { "id": "t1_oknyxf9", "author": "/u/Nomromz", "updated": "2026-05-08T16:21:41+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77pih/7_years_into_fire_i_figured_out_why_this_sub_is/oknyxf9/", "content": "Honestly reading 10 paragraphs of well formulated and well articulated writing is easier for me than reading many human posts.\n I don't have to re-read AI written posts whereas human written posts are often confusing and the point is buried somewhere in a sea of run-on sentences and typos. I've found myself re-reading human posts multiple times just to figure out what they're trying to say.\n I understand how reading 10 paragraphs for something that could be said in 2 is annoying and OP could have edited the whole thing for brevity, but I think OP used AI in a good way here." }, { "id": "t1_okn6ybi", "author": "/u/imsoupercereal", "updated": "2026-05-08T14:17:50+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77pih/7_years_into_fire_i_figured_out_why_this_sub_is/okn6ybi/", "content": "OP made people uncomfortable, so instead of debating or even attacking his ideas, they attacked the presentation. Pretty classic behavior when you have nothing actual to add." }, { "id": "t1_oknat21", "author": "/u/ToBeeContinued", "updated": "2026-05-08T14:35:15+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77pih/7_years_into_fire_i_figured_out_why_this_sub_is/oknat21/", "content": "I don’t think that’s it. I like his ideas, but there not especially novel. People write some version of “make sure you’re retiring TO something not just FROM work” every day on this page. But AI feels like a trick - it’s like getting a phone call and thinking you’re talking to a real person but it’s a bot. Or liking the story in a commercial but it’s an ad for fried chicken.\n I like Reddit because it’s not google. When all posts are AI, there’s no individual flavor or insight. Aaaaand the reason people usually are using AI, is to scale their business. I like Reddit because it’s not LinkedIn. I don’t want to be sold to all day." }, { "id": "t1_okndnad", "author": "/u/imsoupercereal", "updated": "2026-05-08T14:47:59+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77pih/7_years_into_fire_i_figured_out_why_this_sub_is/okndnad/", "content": "Not everything AI generates is slop. If you're stuck in that mindset, you're going to get left behind. AI can be an augment (in this case, cleaning up writing), not just a generator.\n I think the delineation is between telling an LLM to "write a post for the FIRE subreddit about making sure you’re retiring TO something not just FROM work from a Russian's point of view" - In this example, you're basically just telling it to come up with something. It's slop because there's nothing personal in it.\n The other is writing up original thoughts in potentially poor English, and then asking it to help clean it up, which is what appears OP did. Sure, it might still inject some goofy idioms or make other weird translations, but the purpose was to make sure it's more understandable for the audience." }, { "id": "t1_oknhjm0", "author": "/u/ToBeeContinued", "updated": "2026-05-08T15:05:16+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77pih/7_years_into_fire_i_figured_out_why_this_sub_is/oknhjm0/", "content": "I’m not going to be left behind, lol. You have absolutely no concrete basis to suggest that because i don’t like creative content being written with AI I won’t be able to adapt.\n You don’t even know what adaptation is necessary, or how I feel about AI for more technical work? It’s a baseless argument that amounts to ad-hominem. Pretty classic behavior when you have nothing to add." }, { "id": "t1_okni8l5", "author": "/u/imsoupercereal", "updated": "2026-05-08T15:08:21+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77pih/7_years_into_fire_i_figured_out_why_this_sub_is/okni8l5/", "content": "You got mad at my first sentence and didn't even reply to anything beyond that. So yea. Lol." }, { "id": "t1_oknjkcq", "author": "/u/ToBeeContinued", "updated": "2026-05-08T15:14:13+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77pih/7_years_into_fire_i_figured_out_why_this_sub_is/oknjkcq/", "content": "I didn’t even say the word slop and it still was the primary criticism that you had of my reply." }, { "id": "t1_oknlc9z", "author": "/u/Common_economics_420", "updated": "2026-05-08T15:22:02+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77pih/7_years_into_fire_i_figured_out_why_this_sub_is/oknlc9z/", "content": "If you can't put the intellectual effort into writing a post, why should I put the intellectual effort into engaging with it? This isn't something simple like using AI to clean up sentences or edit. These types of post literally feel like writing a couple vague sentences into chatGPT.\n If this is a tit for tat thing I guess I could just get AI to respond to AI generated posts but that just seems like pure circle jerk." }, { "id": "t1_oknf5lb", "author": "/u/TheDoughyRider", "updated": "2026-05-08T14:54:40+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77pih/7_years_into_fire_i_figured_out_why_this_sub_is/oknf5lb/", "content": "They hate AI slop like this post because it is coming from a single voice. Your personality is lost in the rewrite. There’s no sould in the text like misspelled words." }, { "id": "t1_oknzfvy", "author": "/u/Nomromz", "updated": "2026-05-08T16:24:00+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77pih/7_years_into_fire_i_figured_out_why_this_sub_is/oknzfvy/", "content": "Come on now. Spell check and autocorrect have been around for 25 years. There is no excuse to have misspelled words in this day and age.\n Misspelled words does not add "sould" to text. It is simply laziness at this point." }, { "id": "t1_oknc0yz", "author": "/u/iwillnotpost8004", "updated": "2026-05-08T14:40:46+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77pih/7_years_into_fire_i_figured_out_why_this_sub_is/oknc0yz/", "content": "I don't think this is AI slop. This is something written by a person who can write." }, { "id": "t1_oknzpuk", "author": "/u/Curious_Play746", "updated": "2026-05-08T16:25:14+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77pih/7_years_into_fire_i_figured_out_why_this_sub_is/oknzpuk/", "content": "For real! This is a very important reminder.\n In Japan, there's a term for it - Ikigai. Do things that give your life meaning.\n Retirement doesn't make you miserable. It's actually you.\n Go do something that brings you joy.\n If you don't know what, then get to know yourself. Plenty of time now.\n Still struggling? Go to therapy. Seriously. Everyone can benefit from it." }, { "id": "t1_okn1bjl", "author": "/u/ShutterFI", "updated": "2026-05-08T13:51:36+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77pih/7_years_into_fire_i_figured_out_why_this_sub_is/okn1bjl/", "content": "Ai or not, I do like the concept behind this post. My wife and I are transitioning into art. It’s been nice to have a new goal that isn’t so directly tied to supporting ourselves financially - we’re able to make choices we couldn’t have made had we been income-reliant." }, { "id": "t1_okmvm7z", "author": "/u/harpers25", "updated": "2026-05-08T13:23:44+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77pih/7_years_into_fire_i_figured_out_why_this_sub_is/okmvm7z/", "content": "Every post on this sub is AI that starts with: "Every post on this sub is X!"." }, { "id": "t1_oknj9zr", "author": "/u/Laughing_Shaman", "updated": "2026-05-08T15:12:57+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77pih/7_years_into_fire_i_figured_out_why_this_sub_is/oknj9zr/", "content": "no i can verify i make statements like this about many subs and so do other people and the stereotypes or “every post on this sub ___” statements are almost universally true across reddit. i wont be gaslit." }, { "id": "t1_okmv4pr", "author": "/u/eggavatar12345", "updated": "2026-05-08T13:21:19+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77pih/7_years_into_fire_i_figured_out_why_this_sub_is/okmv4pr/", "content": "Noise cancelling headphones metaphor = pure sloooopppppppp" }, { "id": "t1_okmwm7s", "author": "/u/1-Dollar-Doge-Coins", "updated": "2026-05-08T13:28:40+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77pih/7_years_into_fire_i_figured_out_why_this_sub_is/okmwm7s/", "content": "I’m usually the first to criticize AI slop but to be fair, this is someone who puts a disclaimer that English is not their native language. this might actually be an appropriate use case for using AI to put their thoughts into an English-readable post." }, { "id": "t1_okmx622", "author": "/u/eggavatar12345", "updated": "2026-05-08T13:31:22+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77pih/7_years_into_fire_i_figured_out_why_this_sub_is/okmx622/", "content": "I agree but ask for a translation, try to keep idioms to a minimum…this reads like a full generated block from a half baked idea" }, { "id": "t1_okn62yn", "author": "/u/nicolas_06", "updated": "2026-05-08T14:13:48+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77pih/7_years_into_fire_i_figured_out_why_this_sub_is/okn62yn/", "content": "So you mean you didn't understand and that made the reading uncomfortable for you ? While it isn't idiomatic, honestly I don't see the issue. To me the metaphor is clear and sound." }, { "id": "t1_okn1xdj", "author": "/u/1-Dollar-Doge-Coins", "updated": "2026-05-08T13:54:29+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77pih/7_years_into_fire_i_figured_out_why_this_sub_is/okn1xdj/", "content": "Yeah that’s a fair point" }, { "id": "t1_okmw40q", "author": "/u/SatinSmile", "updated": "2026-05-08T13:26:10+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77pih/7_years_into_fire_i_figured_out_why_this_sub_is/okmw40q/", "content": "Jobs are noise-cancelling headphones is actually a bar ngl. Dude cooked." }, { "id": "t1_okn8rbq", "author": "/u/squawkerstar", "updated": "2026-05-08T14:26:01+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77pih/7_years_into_fire_i_figured_out_why_this_sub_is/okn8rbq/", "content": "The irony of this AI comment being upvoted as a reply hahaha" }, { "id": "t1_okmwg2b", "author": "/u/anteatertrashbin", "updated": "2026-05-08T13:27:50+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77pih/7_years_into_fire_i_figured_out_why_this_sub_is/okmwg2b/", "content": "maybe, but i actually thought this had some good things to say…." }, { "id": "t1_okmvv95", "author": "/u/FoolishDog", "updated": "2026-05-08T13:24:58+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77pih/7_years_into_fire_i_figured_out_why_this_sub_is/okmvv95/", "content": "Mods gotta do something about these AI garbage posts" }, { "id": "t1_okn0zh6", "author": "/u/Responsible-Scar-980", "updated": "2026-05-08T13:50:01+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77pih/7_years_into_fire_i_figured_out_why_this_sub_is/okn0zh6/", "content": "I wonder what percent of reddit is now AI posts? It's got to be a lot" }, { "id": "t1_okndudx", "author": "/u/DuvishLabs", "updated": "2026-05-08T14:48:52+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77pih/7_years_into_fire_i_figured_out_why_this_sub_is/okndudx/", "content": "If the content is on-topic, relevant, and helpful, why does it matter if a human used AI to assist in the writing of it?\n Moderating LLM generated content comes with a list of drawbacks that could potentially hurt a community more than help it.\n So long as people abide by the rules, AI assisted content is approved." }, { "id": "t1_oknxvzl", "author": "/u/I_SingOnACake", "updated": "2026-05-08T16:17:03+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77pih/7_years_into_fire_i_figured_out_why_this_sub_is/oknxvzl/", "content": "Apparently the mods are all for AI slop in here based on their reply to your comment. That's my cue to abandon ship, unfortunately. I'm so sick of the overly-lengthy corpo-speak with shitty analogies that have flooded this sub. Not to mention all the bots in the comments. See you all in the post-internet world." }, { "id": "t1_okmwclb", "author": "/u/eatmyasserole", "updated": "2026-05-08T13:27:21+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77pih/7_years_into_fire_i_figured_out_why_this_sub_is/okmwclb/", "content": "It really helps them if you report it!" }, { "id": "t1_okn6zw9", "author": "/u/nicolas_06", "updated": "2026-05-08T14:18:02+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77pih/7_years_into_fire_i_figured_out_why_this_sub_is/okn6zw9/", "content": "It's funny how now people randomly say it's done by AI. Honestly if you remove post like above thinking it's AI, you'll remove lot of post made by human, and no much would remain..." }, { "id": "t1_okmwetf", "author": "/u/Sharp-Top-1227", "updated": "2026-05-08T13:27:40+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77pih/7_years_into_fire_i_figured_out_why_this_sub_is/okmwetf/", "content": "yeah the headphones thing hit way too close to home, been using work stress to avoid dealing with my actual problems for years" }, { "id": "t1_oknasps", "author": "/u/thrakkerzog", "updated": "2026-05-08T14:35:12+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77pih/7_years_into_fire_i_figured_out_why_this_sub_is/oknasps/", "content": "I did the thing and clicked on their profile. Their writing from 5 years ago is similar to this, so I personally think that you're off the mark with suggesting that this is AI." }, { "id": "t1_okn35zd", "author": "/u/Practical_Support177", "updated": "2026-05-08T14:00:18+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77pih/7_years_into_fire_i_figured_out_why_this_sub_is/okn35zd/", "content": "You are supposed to build the life you want FIRST then save for it... that is an old FIRE adage\n Not retire into nothing\n We have been talking about that for years but with all the noobs they forgot about that" }, { "id": "t1_oknqofg", "author": "/u/The_butterfly_dress", "updated": "2026-05-08T15:45:17+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77pih/7_years_into_fire_i_figured_out_why_this_sub_is/oknqofg/", "content": "I love reading about languages/cultures that have multiple words to describe something\n I think the FI part is more important than the RE point for that reason, you should want financial independence, so then you can do the thing you really want to do, and not worry about money" }, { "id": "t1_oknglb2", "author": "/u/IntolerantModerate", "updated": "2026-05-08T15:01:02+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77pih/7_years_into_fire_i_figured_out_why_this_sub_is/oknglb2/", "content": "You're miserable because the job was a giant noise-canceller, and now it's off.\n 100%. I'd never heard it put that way, but its true" }, { "id": "t1_okn0vlx", "author": "/u/jennyfromtheeblock", "updated": "2026-05-08T13:49:30+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77pih/7_years_into_fire_i_figured_out_why_this_sub_is/okn0vlx/", "content": "Did someone out there actually believe that FIRE as a concept is flawed because so many people have no identity outside work that they are miserable without work? That is some crazy capitalism Kool aid." }, { "id": "t1_okn3f4m", "author": "/u/shar_blue", "updated": "2026-05-08T14:01:28+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77pih/7_years_into_fire_i_figured_out_why_this_sub_is/okn3f4m/", "content": "3 days ago, this was a headline in Fortune magazine:\n Economists have found an answer to slowing cognitive decline: avoid retiring early, study finds\n https://fortune.com/2026/05/05/early-retirement-cognitive-decline-gen-x-unemployment/\n Crazy capitalist Kool-Aid indeed" }, { "id": "t1_okn6ke8", "author": "/u/Jwoot1111", "updated": "2026-05-08T14:16:02+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77pih/7_years_into_fire_i_figured_out_why_this_sub_is/okn6ke8/", "content": "It’s not kool aid. It’s our conditioning.\n We left our families. We work too much and we put all our thought/power into work/money." }, { "id": "t1_okmwm7d", "author": "/u/pudding7", "updated": "2026-05-08T13:28:40+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77pih/7_years_into_fire_i_figured_out_why_this_sub_is/okmwm7d/", "content": "Take this AI slop back to LinkedIn." }, { "id": "t1_okn3fhk", "author": "/u/-_Edmond_Dantes_-", "updated": "2026-05-08T14:01:31+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77pih/7_years_into_fire_i_figured_out_why_this_sub_is/okn3fhk/", "content": "Yeah this is definitely LinkedIn quality slop." }, { "id": "t1_okn5qmx", "author": "/u/Tough7432", "updated": "2026-05-08T14:12:14+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77pih/7_years_into_fire_i_figured_out_why_this_sub_is/okn5qmx/", "content": "some people can be miserable no matter what. But now you are not forced to work just to survive. You can work if you choose. I'd much rather be able to choose to work." }, { "id": "t1_okmvlze", "author": "/u/Outofcontrolpilot", "updated": "2026-05-08T13:23:42+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77pih/7_years_into_fire_i_figured_out_why_this_sub_is/okmvlze/", "content": "No actual response, but fuck you brad!\n Build the life you want, save for it, and then enjoy it. You can’t take it with you!" }, { "id": "t1_okmvx6m", "author": "/u/Past-Option2702", "updated": "2026-05-08T13:25:14+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77pih/7_years_into_fire_i_figured_out_why_this_sub_is/okmvx6m/", "content": "I genuinely believe that FIRE isn’t right for at least 1 in 5 of the folks who are pursuing it.\n Be careful what you wish for, or you too could be online posting AI Slop to strangers for fun." }, { "id": "t1_okn6a1p", "author": "/u/Jwoot1111", "updated": "2026-05-08T14:14:42+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77pih/7_years_into_fire_i_figured_out_why_this_sub_is/okn6a1p/", "content": "2/5. Maybe 3/5" }, { "id": "t1_okneohx", "author": "/u/Different_Region_534", "updated": "2026-05-08T14:52:34+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77pih/7_years_into_fire_i_figured_out_why_this_sub_is/okneohx/", "content": "Hard disagree.\n You really think 1 in 5 people are incapable of trud?\n To me it’s much more likely that they haven’t tried to find it yet." }, { "id": "t1_oknxsel", "author": "/u/Jwoot1111", "updated": "2026-05-08T16:16:36+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77pih/7_years_into_fire_i_figured_out_why_this_sub_is/oknxsel/", "content": "After decades of conditioning, yes. In time they have left. They are incapable before they make a change(go back to work) or blow up their life." }, { "id": "t1_okn8zzg", "author": "/u/VT_Squire", "updated": "2026-05-08T14:27:05+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77pih/7_years_into_fire_i_figured_out_why_this_sub_is/okn8zzg/", "content": "Every second post in this sub is some version of:\n Unplug from the internet. I see virtually none of this." }, { "id": "t1_oknx8hb", "author": "/u/luckyelectric", "updated": "2026-05-08T16:14:06+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77pih/7_years_into_fire_i_figured_out_why_this_sub_is/oknx8hb/", "content": "I guess you could say I already FIRED in the sense that I stopped working for money in 2023. But it wasn’t my choice, my younger child has neurological disabilities that require caregiving. My husband earns enough for us to live on, and plans to retire early in the next decade or less. I feel comfortable with the amount I already saved and invested before becoming a mom. This version of FIRE is not one I would ever have chosen. I would never have wanted for my son to have to live with this level of disability. Yet in many ways, my life feels full and happy; and we are grateful for the money we’ve saved so we can be together now." }, { "id": "t1_okn6qar", "author": "/u/poop-dolla", "updated": "2026-05-08T14:16:47+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77pih/7_years_into_fire_i_figured_out_why_this_sub_is/okn6qar/", "content": "Every one of those posts that OP is referencing is filled with comments from actual humans with human thoughts saying basically the exact same thing this post is getting at. This post is nothing new. It’s just a long winded, AI written version of what most people on here already know and comment." }, { "id": "t1_okntzt5", "author": "/u/rumpler117", "updated": "2026-05-08T15:59:41+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77pih/7_years_into_fire_i_figured_out_why_this_sub_is/okntzt5/", "content": "Good post. How on Earth do you know about my annoying coworker, Brad?" }, { "id": "t1_okmx1v9", "author": "/u/Catspiration2", "updated": "2026-05-08T13:30:47+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77pih/7_years_into_fire_i_figured_out_why_this_sub_is/okmx1v9/", "content": "Why the **** was this post removed? I was reading it and it was pretty dang good." }, { "id": "t1_okn1jpn", "author": "/u/Nomromz", "updated": "2026-05-08T13:52:41+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77pih/7_years_into_fire_i_figured_out_why_this_sub_is/okn1jpn/", "content": "Because you have the reddit hivemind complaining that it's "AI slop."\n I don't care that it was AI generated. It resonated with me and I'm sure it resonated with many others in this sub.\n Sometimes we lose sight of the goal of FIRE and this post highlighted that very well. But because the reddit hivemind mindlessly hates "slop" we get to see 50 comments all with dozens of up votes saying "slop" and meaningful posts and comments get buried.\n Truly a sad community that we've become." }, { "id": "t1_okn429n", "author": "/u/harpers25", "updated": "2026-05-08T14:04:27+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77pih/7_years_into_fire_i_figured_out_why_this_sub_is/okn429n/", "content": "It's not slop just because it's AI. It's slop because the same thing gets posted 10 times a week, and "meta" posts psycho-analyzing the sub are annoying.\n But also because it's AI." }, { "id": "t1_okn6mey", "author": "/u/Nomromz", "updated": "2026-05-08T14:16:18+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77pih/7_years_into_fire_i_figured_out_why_this_sub_is/okn6mey/", "content": "This is the same logic that people use to just comment "repost" on random topics.\n If a post doesn't resonate with you, feel free to down vote. Others may upvote. Commenting that something is a "repost" or "ai" is a total waste of time.\n Not everyone spends every minute on reddit. Even if this gets posted 10 times a week, maybe it's the first time someone's seen it. If you've seen it already, go ahead and scroll past.\n I've seen iterations of this post many times, but this is the first time I've gleaned something from it. OP (or AI, whatever) provided two pertinent objectives for people on the path to FIRE and the first one is something that I think should actually be stickied." }, { "id": "t1_oknyh5d", "author": "/u/I_SingOnACake", "updated": "2026-05-08T16:19:41+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77pih/7_years_into_fire_i_figured_out_why_this_sub_is/oknyh5d/", "content": "The reddit voting system no longer works when you can hire bots to upvote your AI slop and downvote the people criticizing it." }, { "id": "t1_okn7tw5", "author": "/u/nicolas_06", "updated": "2026-05-08T14:21:50+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77pih/7_years_into_fire_i_figured_out_why_this_sub_is/okn7tw5/", "content": "I didn't feel it was AI slop. I also asked claude, and usually it find the post that look like AI slop as AI slop. Here it said it was almost certainly written by a human. So I wonder.\n Why is it supposedly AI slop ?" }, { "id": "t1_okn9v29", "author": "/u/Nomromz", "updated": "2026-05-08T14:30:59+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77pih/7_years_into_fire_i_figured_out_why_this_sub_is/okn9v29/", "content": "Well mostly because OP admits to not knowing English and then proceeds to have a much better written post than 99% of humans while also using many trademark punctuation marks that humans usually don't use.\n There's no doubt in my mind that AI was used to help write the post, but I don't mind. There were human-specific examples used in there like the Russian words for work that help get the point across in a unique and relatable way.\n Honestly I don't even care if it turns out those aren't real Russian words. That little blurb really helped something click in my mind about how I view FIRE and "retirement."\n It's easy for us to understand that people require a purpose in their lives, but the way this OP outlines it helps click in my mind a little better than just "humans need purpose."" }, { "id": "t1_oknmmmg", "author": "/u/nicolas_06", "updated": "2026-05-08T15:27:40+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77pih/7_years_into_fire_i_figured_out_why_this_sub_is/oknmmmg/", "content": "OP is a writer, even if it is Russian, it's expected for him to be better at it than 99% of people. He learned how to write properly." }, { "id": "t1_oknjm73", "author": "/u/Laughing_Shaman", "updated": "2026-05-08T15:14:27+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77pih/7_years_into_fire_i_figured_out_why_this_sub_is/oknjm73/", "content": "hivemind?!! you think we all just think the same and shun those who present facts which we attack and then never back up? HA! /s" }, { "id": "t1_okn1maf", "author": "/u/fav453", "updated": "2026-05-08T13:53:02+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77pih/7_years_into_fire_i_figured_out_why_this_sub_is/okn1maf/", "content": "This might be AI but there are a few good points in here." }, { "id": "t1_okn3dv6", "author": "/u/MehLissa1", "updated": "2026-05-08T14:01:18+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77pih/7_years_into_fire_i_figured_out_why_this_sub_is/okn3dv6/", "content": "Totally agree!" }, { "id": "t1_okn4pe3", "author": "/u/LetsGoToMichigan", "updated": "2026-05-08T14:07:27+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77pih/7_years_into_fire_i_figured_out_why_this_sub_is/okn4pe3/", "content": "This sub is so sloppy these days" }, { "id": "t1_okmwisj", "author": "/u/NardMarley", "updated": "2026-05-08T13:28:13+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77pih/7_years_into_fire_i_figured_out_why_this_sub_is/okmwisj/", "content": "Ai slop" }, { "id": "t1_oknf3l9", "author": "/u/burntoutmatch", "updated": "2026-05-08T14:54:25+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77pih/7_years_into_fire_i_figured_out_why_this_sub_is/oknf3l9/", "content": "Ignoring the fact that people can’t seem to get past that this guy used AI as a translator… the message really resonated with me.\n Most people need something to do. Some passion that drives them towards a certain goal. Something that gives them purpose in life. Everyone just needs to take time to actually figure out what that is." }, { "id": "t1_oknoskh", "author": "/u/Bubbly_Rip_1569", "updated": "2026-05-08T15:37:08+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77pih/7_years_into_fire_i_figured_out_why_this_sub_is/oknoskh/", "content": "Working, struggling and scrapping to be able to FIRE is a remarkable accomplishment. It’s not at all easy to defer the benefits of your earnings today for an uncertain future benefit.\n That’s why, in my view, if the goal is simply “I don’t want to work anymore”, you’re in for a disappointment. People, all people, need a purpose, goals to strive for, new things to learn, new experiences to explore. That’s real life. A goal of “I just want to live and do nothing…” doesn’t really work.\n For me, FIRE doesn’t mean do nothing, it means having the freedom to explore what interests me. It’s the difference between being told what to do, or doing work that isn’t interesting or aligned to my goals, and doing the things that do interest me, and chasing the goals I have set for myself.\n That’s the prize that all the hard work paid for. In my mind, that’s a prize worth striving for." }, { "id": "t1_okn4q3w", "author": "/u/kinare", "updated": "2026-05-08T14:07:32+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77pih/7_years_into_fire_i_figured_out_why_this_sub_is/okn4q3w/", "content": "This is absolutely AI written. If you have so much time why not write it yourself?" }, { "id": "t1_okn6xta", "author": "/u/Popular-Capital6330", "updated": "2026-05-08T14:17:46+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77pih/7_years_into_fire_i_figured_out_why_this_sub_is/okn6xta/", "content": "Because AI took his ideas and organized them and made it a good read.\n Why are you hating? It's a great post regardless of the use of a WRITING TOOL." }, { "id": "t1_okn9po9", "author": "/u/banalhemorrhage", "updated": "2026-05-08T14:30:17+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77pih/7_years_into_fire_i_figured_out_why_this_sub_is/okn9po9/", "content": "I hope this is what is happening, OP. Most people complaining about free time are just complaining about me-time they are not used to. Reinventing yourself, discovering yourself or even being a better lover, partner, community person should be an ever lasting and not-always-easy endeavor that should keep most people occupied until the end days." }, { "id": "t1_oknphq0", "author": "/u/jrdhytr", "updated": "2026-05-08T15:40:09+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77pih/7_years_into_fire_i_figured_out_why_this_sub_is/oknphq0/", "content": "I remember seeing this same complaint on r/minimalism years ago. People quit social media or TV then complained that they didn't know how to fill their free time. It's like there is a widespread paucity of imagination these days." }, { "id": "t1_oknz4z0", "author": "/u/DawsonNY", "updated": "2026-05-08T16:22:38+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77pih/7_years_into_fire_i_figured_out_why_this_sub_is/oknz4z0/", "content": "This is an excellent piece." }, { "id": "t1_okng7j6", "author": "/u/stompinstinker", "updated": "2026-05-08T14:59:19+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77pih/7_years_into_fire_i_figured_out_why_this_sub_is/okng7j6/", "content": "I agree. I FIRE’d and now I am too busy to work." }, { "id": "t1_oknz34s", "author": "/u/labici", "updated": "2026-05-08T16:22:24+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77pih/7_years_into_fire_i_figured_out_why_this_sub_is/oknz34s/", "content": "It seems to me that a lot of people who FIRE and retire early have been doing pretty soulless jobs in tech or sales. Jobs they definitely want to retire from as soon as possible.\n I wonder if these folks tried working in actually meaningful jobs, like at a nonprofit they really believed in and that makes the world better, they wouldn’t be racing to retire. And they would already know what matters to them, because they’ve been working on it as part of their actual life’s work." }, { "id": "t1_okndslx", "author": "/u/Environmental-Low792", "updated": "2026-05-08T14:48:39+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77pih/7_years_into_fire_i_figured_out_why_this_sub_is/okndslx/", "content": "Yes, this has been well documented.\n I really liked this article by MMM\n The Comfort Crisis by MMM" }, { "id": "t1_okne3q5", "author": "/u/vinean", "updated": "2026-05-08T14:50:01+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77pih/7_years_into_fire_i_figured_out_why_this_sub_is/okne3q5/", "content": "Meh. Seems like the same platitudes we read all the time from FIRE influencers.\n The “misery” on this sub is overstated. Happy FIRE folks don’t post much and most folks in this sub are still on their FIRE accumulation path or folks that clearly ignored every other post telling people to retire to something vs away from something." }, { "id": "t1_oknoshf", "author": "/u/whathappenedfriend", "updated": "2026-05-08T15:37:07+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77pih/7_years_into_fire_i_figured_out_why_this_sub_is/oknoshf/", "content": "I don’t find this to be AI slop. I think this is a smart take." }, { "id": "t1_okntavr", "author": "/u/StrongChance4812", "updated": "2026-05-08T15:56:38+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77pih/7_years_into_fire_i_figured_out_why_this_sub_is/okntavr/", "content": "I wonder how many people who feel unfulfilled are involved in a church, volunteer, give back to the community?\n IMO that’s a big missing part. You’ll always feel empty unfulfilled if you are just consuming and not contributing." }, { "id": "t1_oknulmi", "author": "/u/tbcboo", "updated": "2026-05-08T16:02:23+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77pih/7_years_into_fire_i_figured_out_why_this_sub_is/oknulmi/", "content": "This reads like AI. But people smart enough to have a FIRE goal should hopefully catch on eventually from both just common sense or from the countless posts on here that life is made up of things after work. I really don’t know what else to say but people need to discover that for themselves. And it blows my mind that’s not a thought for people beforehand, especially in FIRE subs who are such diligent planners.\n I didn’t work my way to retire so young because of being overly stressed or worked. I did this for freedom to do whatever I wanted which was so many things. I retired this year and I can’t even keep up with all the things and don’t have anything to complain about." }, { "id": "t1_oknw2y2", "author": "/u/LightTmroWithToday", "updated": "2026-05-08T16:08:59+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77pih/7_years_into_fire_i_figured_out_why_this_sub_is/oknw2y2/", "content": "This is a man that wrote this (right?), but all the mention of AI made me think about it - - AI.\n Fact is I didn't even consider that it might be helped by/was AI, he writes like I used to write and sometimes I still do--- but I admit to being lazy When using my phone (voice type), but I do use a lot of * and ---. I also don't always check typer put down the right word...\n When something is well done these days, it's so easy to say AI did it, we forget that intelligent people who have certain skills, do still exist. Suggesting something is or might be AI simply because a person is a good thinker and writer, formats a discussion in a way that makes it easy to read & understand what is being stated, And last but not least, chooses word choices That help draw a person in or help them to consider things differently than they might have... It's sort of a slam against humans as a whole, as if we aren't capable ourselves. *Though there might be some truth in that, as far as the newer generations go haha\n Now don't get me wrong, while I prefer to listen to old vinyl & there is nothing like it, good music is good music!" }, { "id": "t1_okn0xtt", "author": "/u/Imaginary_Victory253", "updated": "2026-05-08T13:49:48+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77pih/7_years_into_fire_i_figured_out_why_this_sub_is/okn0xtt/", "content": "If you're waiting for a finish line to "fix everything" then yeah, you'll be unhappy with how big the mountain got while you were away. Fix it now. Your marriage, your hobbies, your purpose etc.\n Don't wait until everyone else has moved on while you intentionally detached to get where you are." }, { "id": "t1_okn8t6w", "author": "/u/nicolas_06", "updated": "2026-05-08T14:26:15+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77pih/7_years_into_fire_i_figured_out_why_this_sub_is/okn8t6w/", "content": "More than that, the finish line for all of us is death. And research an objective doesn't bring joy by itself. Soon it's forgotten/normal. What bring joy is the day to day, the path." }, { "id": "t1_okn1xlb", "author": "/u/RaspberryPavlova126", "updated": "2026-05-08T13:54:31+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77pih/7_years_into_fire_i_figured_out_why_this_sub_is/okn1xlb/", "content": "You’ve got fair point. Lots of people in the FIRE community point out that doing something meaningful is what brings balance and even happiness after RE.\n And just FYI - TRUD is actually “labor” in English. Like that’s the direct translation. I don’t think it would take anything away from you message if you just used English translations for both RABOTA and TRUD." }, { "id": "t1_okngj3p", "author": "/u/Different_Region_534", "updated": "2026-05-08T15:00:46+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77pih/7_years_into_fire_i_figured_out_why_this_sub_is/okngj3p/", "content": "I disagree.\n At least my friends say “I have to go to work on Monday “\n I don’t hear “I have to go to labor on Monday”" }, { "id": "t1_oknh3ix", "author": "/u/RaspberryPavlova126", "updated": "2026-05-08T15:03:16+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77pih/7_years_into_fire_i_figured_out_why_this_sub_is/oknh3ix/", "content": "Right. No one in Russian says they have to “go to labor on Monday either”. The grammar works a bit differently but to “labor at something” and “truditsya nad chem-to” are direct equivalents" }, { "id": "t1_okn2yo6", "author": "/u/Deceptivejunk", "updated": "2026-05-08T13:59:21+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77pih/7_years_into_fire_i_figured_out_why_this_sub_is/okn2yo6/", "content": "I think part of it is is that some people are so ready to retire that they do it before they’re actually FIRE.\n There was a post on here the other day of someone who planned to live on 31k a year…. Not to judge, but when I retire I don’t want to live off ramen and spend all day in my house because I can’t afford anything else" }, { "id": "t1_okn940y", "author": "/u/Hover4effect", "updated": "2026-05-08T14:27:35+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77pih/7_years_into_fire_i_figured_out_why_this_sub_is/okn940y/", "content": "$31k isn't reasonable? What if your house is paid off?\n I can see living on that easily, I am spending less than that now." }, { "id": "t1_oknabp3", "author": "/u/Deceptivejunk", "updated": "2026-05-08T14:33:04+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77pih/7_years_into_fire_i_figured_out_why_this_sub_is/oknabp3/", "content": "That’s like $15/hour. In the US, that’s barely anything. You can live off of it, sure, but good luck if there’s a market downturn." }, { "id": "t1_okne7ki", "author": "/u/Hover4effect", "updated": "2026-05-08T14:50:29+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77pih/7_years_into_fire_i_figured_out_why_this_sub_is/okne7ki/", "content": "Well, $15 an hour with much less deductions.\n Also, the average US household spends 33% of their budget on housing. No mortgage cuts my housing costs by 70-80%. 17% on transportation, that'll drop significantly. We'll be driving much less, won't need two cars.\n I contribute 35% of my income to retirement accounts, that'll go away. My health insurance will even go down when I'm retired!\n 75% of my budget is freed up if I'm no longer a W2 employee going to work everyday. That puts me at $24,000 needed annually." }, { "id": "t1_oknfnv6", "author": "/u/Deceptivejunk", "updated": "2026-05-08T14:56:53+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77pih/7_years_into_fire_i_figured_out_why_this_sub_is/oknfnv6/", "content": "What age are you looking at hitting FIRE that your health insurance will go down?\n The post I referenced was someone in their 30’s trying to retire on 31k/year from their retirement fund." }, { "id": "t1_okngof4", "author": "/u/Hover4effect", "updated": "2026-05-08T15:01:25+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77pih/7_years_into_fire_i_figured_out_why_this_sub_is/okngof4/", "content": "Subsidies increase as income goes below threshold. I'm going to FIRE at 43 (this year)\n I'm currently paying $700 a month for employer health insurance." }, { "id": "t1_okngyfe", "author": "/u/Deceptivejunk", "updated": "2026-05-08T15:02:39+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77pih/7_years_into_fire_i_figured_out_why_this_sub_is/okngyfe/", "content": "Good luck" }, { "id": "t1_okn88cl", "author": "/u/Thrillhouse763", "updated": "2026-05-08T14:23:38+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77pih/7_years_into_fire_i_figured_out_why_this_sub_is/okn88cl/", "content": "I don't get how one can be miserable. I'm at least 10 years away from FIRE but I've already got my hobbies lined up when the time comes. Fishing, playing music, and volunteering with my dog." }, { "id": "t1_oknfc08", "author": "/u/naranja_sanguina", "updated": "2026-05-08T14:55:26+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77pih/7_years_into_fire_i_figured_out_why_this_sub_is/oknfc08/", "content": "My god, the number of comments "definitely written by real humans" defending AI slop! It's slop on slop on slop in here." }, { "id": "t1_okngw0p", "author": "/u/splattermatters", "updated": "2026-05-08T15:02:21+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77pih/7_years_into_fire_i_figured_out_why_this_sub_is/okngw0p/", "content": "Yes. This post is absolutely AI." }, { "id": "t1_okngthn", "author": "/u/ExampleDazzling2174", "updated": "2026-05-08T15:02:03+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77pih/7_years_into_fire_i_figured_out_why_this_sub_is/okngthn/", "content": "Great post. Highly recommend service to something meaningful to you for Trud." }, { "id": "t1_oknjtd4", "author": "/u/TheGardiner", "updated": "2026-05-08T15:15:19+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77pih/7_years_into_fire_i_figured_out_why_this_sub_is/oknjtd4/", "content": "You think people retiring to Thailand are really doing nothing but lay around in a hammock all day.\n Newsflash: you need hobbies and meaningful creative outlets to be happy. More at 11." }, { "id": "t1_oknldm9", "author": "/u/djeatme", "updated": "2026-05-08T15:22:11+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77pih/7_years_into_fire_i_figured_out_why_this_sub_is/oknldm9/", "content": "People should just be able to mark if their post was made with AI. Then folks can decide to engage with it or not. Overall people don’t like being tricked, so transparency is the best way." }, { "id": "t1_oknvtvs", "author": "/u/Available-Ad-5670", "updated": "2026-05-08T16:07:50+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77pih/7_years_into_fire_i_figured_out_why_this_sub_is/oknvtvs/", "content": "yep, all very true, and not covered as much as it should. i like the noise cancelling analogy.\n the problem is everyone can relate to the math and the accumulation struggles, but how you actually live your live is actually different from person to person.\n its high class problems, but still something that people need to address. but some people want to grow chickens, some like playing golf, some like doing nothing, and some take up skydiving, and there is little commonality to many peoples experiences in the back end." }, { "id": "t1_oknycvm", "author": "/u/Agitated-Moment1438", "updated": "2026-05-08T16:19:09+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77pih/7_years_into_fire_i_figured_out_why_this_sub_is/oknycvm/", "content": "Best post I’ve read in a long time. Puts very clearly something that’s been on my mind a lot but had trouble expressing concretely. Thank you very much." }, { "id": "t1_oknz2uz", "author": "/u/VirileMongoose", "updated": "2026-05-08T16:22:22+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77pih/7_years_into_fire_i_figured_out_why_this_sub_is/oknz2uz/", "content": "FIWO… financial independence, work optional" }, { "id": "t1_okngp13", "author": "/u/justtheboot", "updated": "2026-05-08T15:01:30+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77pih/7_years_into_fire_i_figured_out_why_this_sub_is/okngp13/", "content": "To be fair, most of Reddit is miserable." }, { "id": "t1_okniyu9", "author": "/u/mr-zero1two3", "updated": "2026-05-08T15:11:35+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77pih/7_years_into_fire_i_figured_out_why_this_sub_is/okniyu9/", "content": "Haven’t fired yet, but if life allows, it’s only a matter of time. I’ve been researching topics like retirement, meaning, and happiness a lot lately.\n I also came across the Roman concepts of otium and negotium, which feel very similar to the idea of trud / robota.\n We’ve been optimizing for productivity for so long that it’s ingrained in our DNA.\n I see FIRE as an era of rediscovering my identity, finding new meaning, and also living a life of material abundance. Which is honestly harder than it sounds. I realized that even though my net worth is more than enough for a decade, I still live with a scarcity mindset.\n Freedom can’t be achieved only through a bank account, it has to be lived internally.\n What is your relationship with time? Can you enjoy “wasting” it as if it doesn’t matter at all?" }, { "id": "t1_oknjvel", "author": "/u/bankermayfield2026", "updated": "2026-05-08T15:15:34+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77pih/7_years_into_fire_i_figured_out_why_this_sub_is/oknjvel/", "content": "Reddit has selection bias, for everything.\n People who are happy, with hobbies, and friends, aren't posting on Reddit much.\n for example - I have a rare disease, but I'm doing fine. The subreddit for my disease, is all people having a very bad time...disease is prognosing faster than expected, in lots of pain, scared, etc.\n You rarely hear from people like me, because why would I post? I barely think about it.\n But if you got the disease, you'd go on the subreddit, and think it was always 100% horrible starting at a young age." }, { "id": "t1_oknk17u", "author": "/u/servetarider", "updated": "2026-05-08T15:16:17+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77pih/7_years_into_fire_i_figured_out_why_this_sub_is/oknk17u/", "content": "Retired the same time you did. I started playing hockey again at age 56 — 30 years after I’d last played. I’d expect the same from a fellow comrade from Belarus — there are no shortage of good players in your homeland." }, { "id": "t1_oknkroy", "author": "/u/AccomplishedPlankton", "updated": "2026-05-08T15:19:30+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77pih/7_years_into_fire_i_figured_out_why_this_sub_is/oknkroy/", "content": "People are on here complaining about being retired and bored? lol I was laid off two weeks ago and have ZERO anything while being the sole provider for my family of 4. I would not be complaining" }, { "id": "t1_oknmy1u", "author": "/u/New-Fig1269", "updated": "2026-05-08T15:29:04+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77pih/7_years_into_fire_i_figured_out_why_this_sub_is/oknmy1u/", "content": "Amazing words of wisdom! This is something that I will really reflect on with my wife so we have a plan for retirement when we are available to actually do it." }, { "id": "t1_oknn180", "author": "/u/faille", "updated": "2026-05-08T15:29:27+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77pih/7_years_into_fire_i_figured_out_why_this_sub_is/oknn180/", "content": "Wait, shitposting on the internet counts as Trud? I’ll never have an empty life.\n Good post though. My parents gave been retired (early but not fire) for years, and they have a routine they follow instead of just sitting at home every day. They are doing great." }, { "id": "t1_oknqfjq", "author": "/u/adaniel65", "updated": "2026-05-08T15:44:12+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77pih/7_years_into_fire_i_figured_out_why_this_sub_is/oknqfjq/", "content": "Absolutely spot on, brother. We all need a reason to get up everyday after FIRE and even if just plainly retired. It's just how we are wired from the beginning. You are born. First goal? Try to speak. Next goal, try to crawl. Next goal, try to walk, then run..... and so it goes on forever until we reach the end of the road...." }, { "id": "t1_oknryfg", "author": "/u/salazar13", "updated": "2026-05-08T15:50:48+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77pih/7_years_into_fire_i_figured_out_why_this_sub_is/oknryfg/", "content": "It’s just self-selection. The people out there living their lives aren’t posting on reddit (as much as the miserable ones and/or those with time on their hands)" }, { "id": "t1_oknsdfx", "author": "/u/Peepeepoopoobutttoot", "updated": "2026-05-08T15:52:37+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77pih/7_years_into_fire_i_figured_out_why_this_sub_is/oknsdfx/", "content": "One thing from this post that bothers me is, if you don’t have enough for your spouse to also retire than you don’t have enough to FIRE." }, { "id": "t1_okntk7d", "author": "/u/Innocentgurl0_0", "updated": "2026-05-08T15:57:46+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77pih/7_years_into_fire_i_figured_out_why_this_sub_is/okntk7d/", "content": "I understand. My dad retired in his late 40s and earns thanks to investments. He kept himself busy by actively working in ngos and now also runs an old age home." }, { "id": "t1_oknxden", "author": "/u/pickleBlog", "updated": "2026-05-08T16:14:43+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77pih/7_years_into_fire_i_figured_out_why_this_sub_is/oknxden/", "content": "Fucking Brad." }, { "id": "t1_oknyw6w", "author": "/u/Absolutlyyes", "updated": "2026-05-08T16:21:32+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77pih/7_years_into_fire_i_figured_out_why_this_sub_is/oknyw6w/", "content": "Bonne philosophie après les poules que tu sois en Biélorussie ou à Bali c’est pareil tu peux en avoir et au moins tu pourras faire pousser des mangues aussi :-)" }, { "id": "t1_okn5pls", "author": "/u/UnderstandingOk9448", "updated": "2026-05-08T14:12:06+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77pih/7_years_into_fire_i_figured_out_why_this_sub_is/okn5pls/", "content": "This is a great post and there is a lot of wisdom here. Thank you very much for sharing!!!" }, { "id": "t1_okn8b5x", "author": "/u/HostSea4267", "updated": "2026-05-08T14:23:59+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77pih/7_years_into_fire_i_figured_out_why_this_sub_is/okn8b5x/", "content": "TRUD is the goal, but RABOTA sometimes must be the path! Thank you Comrade!\n RABOTATRUD is the new FIRE!" }, { "id": "t1_oknc7ag", "author": "/u/DeadFacesInMyPocket", "updated": "2026-05-08T14:41:33+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77pih/7_years_into_fire_i_figured_out_why_this_sub_is/oknc7ag/", "content": "Thank you for sharing and putting this into perspective. I personally dont care if you used AI or not. I don't see the issue for using AI to format and correct grammar, etc.\n Also everybody aways bitches about the long dash—and the bullet point.\n I don't get it. I use both of those regularly on mobile and in my computer. They are very easy to do and are grammatically correct.\n OP said they are a writer in the cold Russian winters. It would make sense that your grammar would be proper.\n Yes there is a lot of AI "slop" but this is not sloppy. This is good, real, usable information. Thank you for sharing.\n I would have laughed though if you'd said your annoying coworkers name was "Vlad", just because Russia.\n But by all means, congrats on finding your way in a life without "trading time for money"!!" }, { "id": "t1_okndjfi", "author": "/u/UnfortunateSnort12", "updated": "2026-05-08T14:47:30+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77pih/7_years_into_fire_i_figured_out_why_this_sub_is/okndjfi/", "content": "This is totally true. It goes beyond FIRE and applies to everyone that retires. It even can be working hard for such a long time to get your dream job and getting it. This happened to me. I spent 12 years or so grinding to get my dream job, and after I got it, I was depressed as I didn’t have that drive that kept me going that whole time. Despite having hobbies that I enjoyed, friends, stuff to do…. It took awhile for me to shift my mindset and all is fine now.\n In my industry, a lot of people make their career their identity, and when they retire, they are aimless and unhappy. We all have to work to live, not live to work…. Then when we finally stop work, we can just live." }, { "id": "t1_okndxdq", "author": "/u/disillusionedthinker", "updated": "2026-05-08T14:49:14+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77pih/7_years_into_fire_i_figured_out_why_this_sub_is/okndxdq/", "content": "Excellent post. Thanks for sharing your wisdom. As for the English grammar... its better than 95% of native American English speakers." }, { "id": "t1_oknesrn", "author": "/u/gandolfthe", "updated": "2026-05-08T14:53:06+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77pih/7_years_into_fire_i_figured_out_why_this_sub_is/oknesrn/", "content": "Do ya not worry bout the drones flying back and forth overhead?" }, { "id": "t1_oknfc46", "author": "/u/Academic_Lab9769", "updated": "2026-05-08T14:55:27+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77pih/7_years_into_fire_i_figured_out_why_this_sub_is/oknfc46/", "content": "Solid Context, just very long to get to it, but the facts are relevant in my opinion.\n This is right, all the way through. Long, but correct.\n Took a year off with my wife and kids three years ago. Came back to work after. When the "headphones" came off, I heard exactly what you described. The hobbies I'd been telling myself I'd return to when I had time turned out to be ideas I liked, not things I enjoyed. The friends I thought I had were mostly colleagues. Confirmed all of it.\n I'm not retired. Got a number, not at it yet, probably a decade out. Happy where I am now, which is the part most people pursuing FIRE seem to forget is possible? Same job, same hours.\n Trud and rabota aren't a post-FIRE distinction. They start the day you have a finish line and quit trying to move it." }, { "id": "t1_okni2ge", "author": "/u/PghSubie", "updated": "2026-05-08T15:07:36+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77pih/7_years_into_fire_i_figured_out_why_this_sub_is/okni2ge/", "content": "Why are you retired and your spouse still working? If you're not both F.I., then neither of you are" }, { "id": "t1_oknlbm1", "author": "/u/Acceptable_Usual1646", "updated": "2026-05-08T15:21:57+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77pih/7_years_into_fire_i_figured_out_why_this_sub_is/oknlbm1/", "content": "This is the most meaningful post I have read on reddit dor the past year! Thank you for sharing your wisdom. Every word is 100% true and valuable" }, { "id": "t1_oknmgc5", "author": "/u/GypsyBl0od", "updated": "2026-05-08T15:26:55+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77pih/7_years_into_fire_i_figured_out_why_this_sub_is/oknmgc5/", "content": "Grea read, share other things you write too :)" }, { "id": "t1_oknvj3b", "author": "/u/Additional_City5392", "updated": "2026-05-08T16:06:31+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77pih/7_years_into_fire_i_figured_out_why_this_sub_is/oknvj3b/", "content": "High quality post" }, { "id": "t1_oknxdka", "author": "/u/Mundane-Gold-4971", "updated": "2026-05-08T16:14:44+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77pih/7_years_into_fire_i_figured_out_why_this_sub_is/oknxdka/", "content": "OP - Great write up. Please share more. Appreciate it!" }, { "id": "t1_okn3uko", "author": "/u/Bryanmsi89", "updated": "2026-05-08T14:03:28+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77pih/7_years_into_fire_i_figured_out_why_this_sub_is/okn3uko/", "content": "That is an excellent post, thanks for sharing it." }, { "id": "t1_okn7ss1", "author": "/u/MaxwellSmart07", "updated": "2026-05-08T14:21:41+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77pih/7_years_into_fire_i_figured_out_why_this_sub_is/okn7ss1/", "content": "OP you have the right attitude.\n Ps: A long post one would expect from Russian author Leo Tolstoy." }, { "id": "t1_okn9ecn", "author": "/u/FarTradition6496", "updated": "2026-05-08T14:28:53+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77pih/7_years_into_fire_i_figured_out_why_this_sub_is/okn9ecn/", "content": ""a Telegram channel that I funded out of pocket for years" --- hmmmm. I thought Telegram was an alt-right haven?" }, { "id": "t1_oknxrpa", "author": "/u/ryazhsk", "updated": "2026-05-08T16:16:31+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77pih/7_years_into_fire_i_figured_out_why_this_sub_is/oknxrpa/", "content": "Ну наконец-то..." }, { "id": "t1_okn1anq", "author": "/u/kkareem27", "updated": "2026-05-08T13:51:29+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77pih/7_years_into_fire_i_figured_out_why_this_sub_is/okn1anq/", "content": "Great write, super enlightening! Thank you sir" }, { "id": "t1_okn7kjz", "author": "/u/Princessferfs", "updated": "2026-05-08T14:20:39+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77pih/7_years_into_fire_i_figured_out_why_this_sub_is/okn7kjz/", "content": "Wisdom right there" }, { "id": "t1_okn0ep2", "author": "/u/gobeavs1", "updated": "2026-05-08T13:47:16+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77pih/7_years_into_fire_i_figured_out_why_this_sub_is/okn0ep2/", "content": "This AI guy employs a small team for a Telegram channel? NOT RE, just FI.\n Also didn’t we ban AI content?" }, { "id": "t1_okn6ylx", "author": "/u/gemeoMaisNovo", "updated": "2026-05-08T14:17:52+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77pih/7_years_into_fire_i_figured_out_why_this_sub_is/okn6ylx/", "content": "Wow, what a post! Feel hugged, and thank you so much for this post — I loved it!" }, { "id": "t1_okn9mv8", "author": "/u/More_Ship_190", "updated": "2026-05-08T14:29:57+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77pih/7_years_into_fire_i_figured_out_why_this_sub_is/okn9mv8/", "content": "Not written by AI. Thank you for your insight. Spot on." }, { "id": "t1_oknbhap", "author": "/u/vinean", "updated": "2026-05-08T14:38:18+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77pih/7_years_into_fire_i_figured_out_why_this_sub_is/oknbhap/", "content": "Seems like it has all the AI formatting cues. I can never tell so it’s odd to me that someone can definitively say one way or the other.\n The other disconnect is the first sentence apologizes for English as not their native language but the post comes off too colloquial not to be AI adjusted." }, { "id": "t1_oknbspn", "author": "/u/More_Ship_190", "updated": "2026-05-08T14:39:44+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77pih/7_years_into_fire_i_figured_out_why_this_sub_is/oknbspn/", "content": "You might be right." }, { "id": "t1_oknh1wq", "author": "/u/malkyfreo", "updated": "2026-05-08T15:03:05+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77pih/7_years_into_fire_i_figured_out_why_this_sub_is/oknh1wq/", "content": "Blah blah blah" }, { "id": "t1_oknlcxn", "author": "/u/Classic_Peak2101", "updated": "2026-05-08T15:22:06+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77pih/7_years_into_fire_i_figured_out_why_this_sub_is/oknlcxn/", "content": "you lost me I live in a village in Belarus. No thank you." }, { "id": "t1_okn7b2f", "author": "/u/Sayonaroo", "updated": "2026-05-08T14:19:27+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77pih/7_years_into_fire_i_figured_out_why_this_sub_is/okn7b2f/", "content": "omg you're billingual" } ] }, { "source": "r/Fire top month", "id": "t3_1tippj7", "title": "35, 1.9m net worth (1.3 in investments, house paid off) no debt, kids, or wife, 25k average annual spend, can I walk away forever?", "author": "/u/Ok_Principle9325", "updated": "2026-05-20T15:49:35+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/", "content": "I just want to be done man, hate my clients, hate my job, want to sit in my house, play video games , hang out with my pets, cook for my parents and garden for the rest of my life. Please tell me I’m close.\n submitted by /u/Ok_Principle9325\n [link] [comments]", "contentHtml": "

I just want to be done man, hate my clients, hate my job, want to sit in my house, play video games , hang out with my pets, cook for my parents and garden for the rest of my life. Please tell me I’m close.

submitted by /u/Ok_Principle9325
[link] [comments]", "comments": [ { "id": "t1_omvvrjy", "author": "/u/particular-fervor", "updated": "2026-05-20T15:51:54+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omvvrjy/", "content": "Send it" }, { "id": "t1_omwblr5", "author": "/u/Ok_Principle9325", "updated": "2026-05-20T17:01:09+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omwblr5/", "content": "Reactions for this post have convinced me. Im done by new years, gonna enjoy my life." }, { "id": "t1_omxl4dt", "author": "/u/cruisin_urchin87", "updated": "2026-05-20T20:28:00+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omxl4dt/", "content": "Damn, as a person in the rat race I get a sense of “at least they got out” when I see these posts and that brings me some solace.\n Have a cold one for us, and congrats on your impressive run." }, { "id": "t1_omy2ptf", "author": "/u/LicksMackenzie", "updated": "2026-05-20T21:59:50+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omy2ptf/", "content": "YOU TAKE THAT HAND OFF THE DOORKNOB MISTER!" }, { "id": "t1_on68cei", "author": "/u/Correct_Mango_5835", "updated": "2026-05-22T02:17:09+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/on68cei/", "content": "I’m so happy for him. I’m 34 and pray for a way to be able to garden all Day, play with my dog, and hug my family and do things with them without being exhausted from no rest." }, { "id": "t1_omwp69n", "author": "/u/Vince_Clortho_Jr", "updated": "2026-05-20T18:00:56+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omwp69n/", "content": "GFY in 5-6 months" }, { "id": "t1_omx9d5a", "author": "/u/WheresMyMule", "updated": "2026-05-20T19:33:20+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omx9d5a/", "content": "Do it now! Why wait?" }, { "id": "t1_on27p3v", "author": "/u/Strazdas1", "updated": "2026-05-21T14:13:38+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/on27p3v/", "content": "A popular strategy in this sub is to retire January to max out 401k for next year with employer match." }, { "id": "t1_omwbqij", "author": "/u/particular-fervor", "updated": "2026-05-20T17:01:44+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omwbqij/", "content": "👏👏👏" }, { "id": "t1_omyb12w", "author": "/u/BuckThis86", "updated": "2026-05-20T22:45:38+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omyb12w/", "content": "Only caveat to this is: are you including health insurance and are you sure you won’t get married in the future?\n Both may drive up that spend estimate. Your liquid investments should provide about $50k a year, so should have a buffer there" }, { "id": "t1_omz5wp0", "author": "/u/Big-Dragonfly2482", "updated": "2026-05-21T01:43:00+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omz5wp0/", "content": "Yeah would love to know how annual spend is only 25k/ breakdown. Like total expenses? I couldn't get under 60 if I tried" }, { "id": "t1_omzvi70", "author": "/u/ForeverInBlackJeans", "updated": "2026-05-21T04:15:09+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omzvi70/", "content": "OP said his house is paid off. Still, he’s clearly not living large, but $2000 a month for a single dude with no housing payment, no debt, and presumably no vices is very doable." }, { "id": "t1_on1spc3", "author": "/u/Big-Dragonfly2482", "updated": "2026-05-21T12:59:09+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/on1spc3/", "content": "True, but for ex my paid off house still costs well over 1200 a month. Taxes, utilities, insurance, upkeep. And health insurance well over a 1500, though am not single" }, { "id": "t1_on5cupd", "author": "/u/ScaryImprovement4723", "updated": "2026-05-21T23:08:09+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/on5cupd/", "content": "$1200 a month on a paid off house. Wow." }, { "id": "t1_oniie8j", "author": "/u/JimInAuburn11", "updated": "2026-05-23T23:32:58+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/oniie8j/", "content": "Mine would be even more in the Seattle suburbs. Property taxes are about $14K/year and insurance is about $1700/year. That does not include about $300/month in utilities, and then any maintenance. Probably $1500+ a month, not counting any maintenance costs. A lot of people underestimate it. They think they have a paid off house, and it will cost them nothing. When in reality if you have a sub 4% interest rate, your housing costs are still going to be at least 50% of what they were before paying off the house." }, { "id": "t1_on2818a", "author": "/u/Strazdas1", "updated": "2026-05-21T14:15:13+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/on2818a/", "content": "Taxation differs. For example where i live owner-occupied dwelling worth less than 700k is no property tax at all." }, { "id": "t1_on4dpcl", "author": "/u/Agreeable_Bear6812", "updated": "2026-05-21T20:07:42+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/on4dpcl/", "content": "Where are you getting that deal??" }, { "id": "t1_on14gim", "author": "/u/StudioCharacter9354", "updated": "2026-05-21T10:28:10+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/on14gim/", "content": "What is life without vices!!!" }, { "id": "t1_on1dy2o", "author": "/u/Cubsfan040", "updated": "2026-05-21T11:34:07+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/on1dy2o/", "content": "Freedom" }, { "id": "t1_on27rtp", "author": "/u/ForeverInBlackJeans", "updated": "2026-05-21T14:13:59+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/on27rtp/", "content": "Health, financial freedom, dignity." }, { "id": "t1_on2k2aq", "author": "/u/Middleagedmom52", "updated": "2026-05-21T15:10:20+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/on2k2aq/", "content": "If they are not working and playing video games all day; I would put the likelihood of a future relationship at less then 0" }, { "id": "t1_omxg9dt", "author": "/u/TechyJolly", "updated": "2026-05-20T20:05:21+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omxg9dt/", "content": "When u die, u will leave millions on the table." }, { "id": "t1_omydcvk", "author": "/u/Flightwise", "updated": "2026-05-20T22:59:51+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omydcvk/", "content": "I’ll leave a scholarship in my name. And hospital equipment." }, { "id": "t1_on1df7a", "author": "/u/medted22", "updated": "2026-05-21T11:30:46+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/on1df7a/", "content": "As someone who just received a pretty nice scholarship to medical school but will still be $200k+ in debt once all said and done, thank you! I hope to do the same someday" }, { "id": "t1_omxbwed", "author": "/u/BeatDense9049", "updated": "2026-05-20T19:45:11+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omxbwed/", "content": "You barely need any savings to live that life…… FIRE is only hard if you plan to have a life during it." }, { "id": "t1_omym8p2", "author": "/u/Ancient-Swordfish292", "updated": "2026-05-20T23:50:55+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omym8p2/", "content": "If your definition of having a life entails higher expenses, yes." }, { "id": "t1_omymlhw", "author": "/u/BeatDense9049", "updated": "2026-05-20T23:53:00+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omymlhw/", "content": "Usually it’s not living with parents, cooking and gardening every day.. but you do you. Ya I could live for free on my parents farm and just do nothing all day too. Hell didn’t even ever need to join the work force to do that…." }, { "id": "t1_omyrt69", "author": "/u/Ancient-Swordfish292", "updated": "2026-05-21T00:23:09+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omyrt69/", "content": "In other posts, OP said they have their own house and paid it off. Cook for their parents might be on weekends or something. Apparently they've worked in law for the last 15 years." }, { "id": "t1_omwvh3t", "author": "/u/Mr_Jiggs93", "updated": "2026-05-20T18:29:20+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omwvh3t/", "content": "Happy for you, brudda. Enjoy life" }, { "id": "t1_omyjpj1", "author": "/u/Sdwingnut", "updated": "2026-05-20T23:36:15+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omyjpj1/", "content": "Would you like a husband ? Asking for a friend." }, { "id": "t1_omwiayr", "author": "/u/MixedProphet", "updated": "2026-05-20T17:30:39+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omwiayr/", "content": "Let’s goooo" }, { "id": "t1_omxp4j7", "author": "/u/used348", "updated": "2026-05-20T20:48:07+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omxp4j7/", "content": "Enjoy it, well deserved!" }, { "id": "t1_omxi4nc", "author": "/u/Kommmbucha", "updated": "2026-05-20T20:14:09+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omxi4nc/", "content": "Congrats man!" }, { "id": "t1_omxqaiq", "author": "/u/RichieRicch", "updated": "2026-05-20T20:54:14+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omxqaiq/", "content": "25K annual spend good god." }, { "id": "t1_omyk14d", "author": "/u/BuddyLongshots", "updated": "2026-05-20T23:38:08+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omyk14d/", "content": "It'll go up to $40k annually when they start buying their own health insurance." }, { "id": "t1_omz00tt", "author": "/u/Extreme431980", "updated": "2026-05-21T01:10:03+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omz00tt/", "content": "Yeah, no kidding health insurance is the biggest scam ever now. I’ve been in the healthcare industry for 15 years. It’s gotten so bad that as passionate as I was about helping others, the system is so corrupt that I just couldn’t do it anymore. The government runs the whole thing they price fix everything meeting any piece of medical equipment. The government sets the rules on how much a company gets reimbursed for it, any medical procedure, same thing, etc. so where do you think the dirty, greedy, people in the industry which is in my opinion about 95% these days go and milk the system dry? People paid into Medicare their whole lives through working taken out of their paycheck and because the Medicare trust fund is in solvent because of all the waste and abuse, many people who are retired if they have a certain income, they have to pay for Medicare still, my parents pay $400 a month just for their Medicare and retirement. How’s that for bullshit? Another thing is if you have a dog veterinary care I couldn’t believe it. I just took my dog in a couple weeks ago. They did a couple of x-rays on all the wrong things. All I asked them to do is x-ray her foot and they did some lab work didn’t come up with any answers and charged me $800. Then they wanted me to come back a second time so they could put her under sedation and do another x-ray specifically of her foot which is what I asked for to begin with just to rip me off even more so now I gotta get pet insurance too. I mean what the fuck is going on in this country people are so despicable greedy it makes me wanna puke. I guess I went off topic a bit there but just venting a bit is all." }, { "id": "t1_omz0d0z", "author": "/u/Extreme431980", "updated": "2026-05-21T01:11:57+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omz0d0z/", "content": "Sorry about the typos I was talking messaging. I’m sure nobody cares about what I had to say there, but at least if she didn’t know already how the healthcare or insurance industry works now you know a little bit more." }, { "id": "t1_omzsri0", "author": "/u/Ok-Bit4971", "updated": "2026-05-21T03:56:30+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omzsri0/", "content": "Yes, greed will be the death of this country." }, { "id": "t1_on1038z", "author": "/u/RandomJoe7", "updated": "2026-05-21T09:53:34+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/on1038z/", "content": "I posted this further down, so this is a copy/paste, but maybe interesting for you:\n I'm from a european country that many americans consider to have "free health care". It's bullshit, "free" doesnt exist. Someone always has to pay for it.\n I pay a forced health care tax of around $1450 every month. This, by the way, is the amount you have to pay when you earn around 80k a year. Yes, if you earn 80k a year gross (pre-tax), a bit over 17k of that is JUST for the health care. Yes, a solid 20% of your income goes to health care.\n My wife earns less, but she pays another $900+ a month. So together (with our TWO kids), we pay nearly $2400 a month in health care, and it's going up every year (it went up over 200$ per month per person just from last year to this year, and there is no end in sight as the system is crumbling).\n My brother lives in the US, earns way more than me (more than double), and pays about $500 a month for his private health care, covering his wife and THREE kids. To be fair, the company he works for pays extra on top of that, but it's still much lower than here. And not only does he have access to more modern doctors/equipment in the private sector, but also less waiting times. In addition to that, his plan covers glasses for their whole family (not covered at all here), as well as full dental (only partly covered here, things like old metal fillings but not modern white composite fillings etc).\n Now also consider this, on top of that: We have a lower median income than the US. We have higher income taxes than the US. Our land/house prices are higher than in the US. Our gas cost 11$ per gallon a few weeks ago (now it's around 9$ because of temporary 2 month tax break and relaxation in oil prices). Our electricity prices are over 2x of that in the US, etc.\n I've also lived in the US for about a decade in the past, and if I had the ability to go back (but it's actually quite hard to achieve legally), I would 100% go back in a heart beat. If you're a normal middle class working person, you can much more easily accumulate "wealth" in the US. Here, if you are middle class, you can't afford jack shit after all the taxes etc. If you're not middle class but rather someone who likes to not work, then yes, my country is perfect for you: just come here, receive social benefits and have others work for you (i.e. let them be your work slaves). It's a fucking scam." }, { "id": "t1_omzts48", "author": "/u/stevencashmere", "updated": "2026-05-21T04:03:19+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omzts48/", "content": "I live in Australia now as an American and I pay $100 USD out of pocket… not sure how I’m supposed to go back to the US." }, { "id": "t1_on486zm", "author": "/u/Several_Razzmatazz51", "updated": "2026-05-21T19:42:06+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/on486zm/", "content": "Why would you want to?" }, { "id": "t1_omyn7jf", "author": "/u/number90901", "updated": "2026-05-20T23:56:32+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omyn7jf/", "content": "LCOL area rent is probably like 1K and then 1K a month spend on other stuff is pretty reasonable if your interests are as simple as his seem to be." }, { "id": "t1_on64hqa", "author": "/u/BeardBootsBullets", "updated": "2026-05-22T01:53:34+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/on64hqa/", "content": "He’s not paying rent; he said that his house is paid off.\n However, if he can spend $1000/mo on food, consumables, cell phone, transportation, and quality of life, that’s amazing. Doable, but amazing. Most people spend $1000/mo per person on transportation and food, alone.\n …But I don’t know how he’s not spending $1000/mo simply on property taxes, insurance, electricity, water, sewer, trash, yard, and set-asides for maintenance. Appliance repairs are crazy expensive, and have you ever had to replace a roof? American median property tax is $3500/yr, or ~$300/mo. Add home insurance, and now you’re to up $500/mo. After electricity, internet, water, sewer, and trash, now you’re knocking on the door of $1000 before adding those previously mentioned maintenance savings." }, { "id": "t1_omyp3qn", "author": "/u/AMC879", "updated": "2026-05-21T00:07:29+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omyp3qn/", "content": "It's more than I spend but my house is paid off." }, { "id": "t1_omw9dk4", "author": "/u/Inerversa", "updated": "2026-05-20T16:51:32+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omw9dk4/", "content": "I wish I had his pens" }, { "id": "t1_omwwmaf", "author": "/u/Dizzy_Spirit_7440", "updated": "2026-05-20T18:34:32+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omwwmaf/", "content": "his penis" }, { "id": "t1_omvxmjd", "author": "/u/RandoYolovestor", "updated": "2026-05-20T16:00:06+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omvxmjd/", "content": "This. ☝️" }, { "id": "t1_omyk2e2", "author": "/u/coffeesour", "updated": "2026-05-20T23:38:19+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omyk2e2/", "content": "Send it lmao this made me chuckle" }, { "id": "t1_omvvzsa", "author": "/u/Top_Substance9093", "updated": "2026-05-20T15:52:55+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omvvzsa/", "content": "just make sure you're accounting for healthcare costs. otherwise you're golden.\n $1.3m should support ~$50k/yr." }, { "id": "t1_omwi1yc", "author": "/u/p1028", "updated": "2026-05-20T17:29:34+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omwi1yc/", "content": "My parents retired in their mid fifties. They are very healthy for their age, no meds, no hospital visits and slim. They spent nearly $250,000 on health insurance premiums before Medicare kicked in at 65. $2,200 a month flushed down the toilet for nearly a decade.\n Healthcare in the US is so unfathomably expensive and it’s only going one way unfortunately." }, { "id": "t1_omx8zza", "author": "/u/artbystorms", "updated": "2026-05-20T19:31:35+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omx8zza/", "content": "I honestly think that is why we will never get Universal healthcare without a huge government shake up. It's a ball and chain keeping people in employment and from retiring. Can't have people stumbling into financial freedom and having control over their own lives." }, { "id": "t1_omxcbaq", "author": "/u/sillybunny22", "updated": "2026-05-20T19:47:07+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omxcbaq/", "content": "That and the military offers free healthcare/education. Can’t dilute those big incentivizes for recruitment." }, { "id": "t1_omxb838", "author": "/u/Weird-Echidna-5261", "updated": "2026-05-20T19:42:05+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omxb838/", "content": "And yet the US probably easiest to achieve FIRE" }, { "id": "t1_omyap1f", "author": "/u/Detail4", "updated": "2026-05-20T22:43:39+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omyap1f/", "content": "Idk if I’d care about FIRE if my job was to open a shop at 10am, siesta at 2pm, and then an evening dinner with friends, all with healthcare covered and a safety net if the shop closed." }, { "id": "t1_omyei3o", "author": "/u/Hoosier2016", "updated": "2026-05-20T23:06:25+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omyei3o/", "content": "Right? The whole reason for FIRE is to escape the oppressive work culture where your entire well-being is dependent on your continuous employment.\n With healthcare, childcare, generous PTO, and relaxed work/life standards FIRE becomes a lot less attractive compared to actually enjoying your money when you’re young." }, { "id": "t1_omzudz6", "author": "/u/stevencashmere", "updated": "2026-05-21T04:07:27+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omzudz6/", "content": "This is why I lost interest in FIRE.\n Like I don’t hate my life and want to live while I’m young and you have to know yourself also.\n If you’re an old soul then wasting your youth away prob isn’t a big deal.\n I’m super active and like to socialize go out etc and there’s a time limit on that’. Even at 31 when I’m exploring I can feel my oldness taking hold 😂 like you just can’t be bothered with a lot of the BS that goes on with traveling as you age" }, { "id": "t1_omz2bfp", "author": "/u/No_Amount_7886", "updated": "2026-05-21T01:22:53+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omz2bfp/", "content": "As a lurker, refreshing to see this take on this board." }, { "id": "t1_omyqzc9", "author": "/u/Mysteriouskid00", "updated": "2026-05-21T00:18:18+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omyqzc9/", "content": "I mean the US has a safety net. Go on ACA, Medicaid, get unemployment and welfare." }, { "id": "t1_omy29qq", "author": "/u/StrebLab", "updated": "2026-05-20T21:57:30+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omy29qq/", "content": "Yup. The US has always been a high risk high reward system which rewards those who creative, bold, or resilient. FIRE is a great example of that." }, { "id": "t1_omzvvtk", "author": "/u/ForeverInBlackJeans", "updated": "2026-05-21T04:17:47+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omzvvtk/", "content": "FWIW I’m Canadian and our healthcare is generally very good here, but people are still shackled to their jobs every bit as much.\n Housing is outrageous, groceries are expensive, people have more kids than they can afford to feed and clothe, and don’t forget the F150 payments." }, { "id": "t1_omxm3f1", "author": "/u/EfficiencyLittle4209", "updated": "2026-05-20T20:32:41+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omxm3f1/", "content": "100 percent" }, { "id": "t1_omz137m", "author": "/u/Extreme431980", "updated": "2026-05-21T01:16:07+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omz137m/", "content": "Do you actually think that universal healthcare will fix our healthcare industry? For example, citizens in Canada whom I know personally have universal healthcare and if they need a procedure done immediately such as a joint replacement, they have to be put on a 6 to 12 month waiting list at least and less of course they pay out-of-pocket. Then if they pay cash, they’ll put them at the front of the line and that’s that. i’ve been in the industry for 15 years, I own my own company for 10 of those 15 years, I hate to say it, but the only way to fix the healthcare industry is to get rid of all insurance companies and the federal government being a part of it at all. of course, there would have to be some plan in terms of patients that are still on Medicare and what not for a while, but to fix it and lower the costs, a free market system is the only answer. With that, costs of care would come crashing down substantially, quality of care would come up substantially, and competition would come back, which is a very good thing. Nowadays, there’s such a tremendous demand for physicians that somebody can go to medical school in the Caribbean and come here and pass the boards and be a doctor with little to no debt because the costs are nothing like they are in the United States for medical school. Half of them can’t even speak English, they have no compassion whatsoever, the majority of them, anyhow, but they get to be doctors and degrade the rest of us and make several hundred thousand dollars a year by scamming people and a lot of them commit fraud too because the system is set up that way.Price fixing look it up." }, { "id": "t1_omz1j4b", "author": "/u/artbystorms", "updated": "2026-05-21T01:18:36+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omz1j4b/", "content": "TL;DR and yes." }, { "id": "t1_omzw7d2", "author": "/u/and_one_of_those", "updated": "2026-05-21T04:20:01+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omzw7d2/", "content": "Imo a free market doesn't work well in medicine, because it's not like shopping for a phone, a car, or a house.\n If you have a heart attack or stroke you're not really in a position to shop around for a better deal. Providers perhaps can't estimate what it will cost, and it's hard to compare alternatives.\n Not to mention that some people will need a lot more care than others, so you need some risk sharing, either insurance or a public scheme.\n I am not saying that either the US or Canada are perfect, by a long way." }, { "id": "t1_omwp5cf", "author": "/u/casualdinosaur84", "updated": "2026-05-20T18:00:49+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omwp5cf/", "content": "I wouldn’t say they wasted it. A quarter million is a small cost to pay for 10 years of life enjoyment while you are still healthy.\n (But yes, F the healthcare system in the US)" }, { "id": "t1_omxgdkd", "author": "/u/Flashy-Assignment-95", "updated": "2026-05-20T20:05:53+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omxgdkd/", "content": "That’s 25k/year- more than my employer and I have ever paid for a fam plan in a given year.\n Not much more but…" }, { "id": "t1_omxc9pz", "author": "/u/thebaddadgames", "updated": "2026-05-20T19:46:55+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omxc9pz/", "content": "This is why anyone in this position should look at immigration to literally any other first world country. Half of this money could go to moving to some place like Portugal or France or Spain etc. it would be so much cheaper just for that alone. The ideal retirement means leaving the US because healthcare here is literally just not possible with Fire" }, { "id": "t1_omxjvbj", "author": "/u/shinyrainbows", "updated": "2026-05-20T20:22:16+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omxjvbj/", "content": "literally private health insurance in spain was 34 euros a month for me, and I declined it and decided I will just keep my public free health insurance. I also don't have dental insurance. My cleanings are $62 USD with Xray and consultation included." }, { "id": "t1_omyfqxr", "author": "/u/EpilepsyChampion", "updated": "2026-05-20T23:13:29+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omyfqxr/", "content": "That's the way to do it.\n I use geo-arbitrage and currently reside in South America while working remotely. Had dental surgery for $750 instead of $3k in the US... medications were $25.\n I only get health care abroad from now on... and I have health insurance through my job but it might as well be made of peanut butter." }, { "id": "t1_omz8hhc", "author": "/u/Extreme431980", "updated": "2026-05-21T01:56:27+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omz8hhc/", "content": "The sad reality is that most companies don’t even pay for any of the costs of healthcare and the policies are horrible. They put the vast majority of the cost on the employee and most insurance plans. These days are catastrophic meaning they have huge deductibles and don’t cover much of anything. Essentially, in that instance, you are far better off not having health insurance at all. I went without it for 15 years and I have a lot of health issues, but it cost me a lot less not having insurance then it would’ve if I did have insurance. It’s nothing but a huge scam I could go on all night about it, but it’s too depressing of a topic to even discuss any longer." }, { "id": "t1_omxv8on", "author": "/u/RepresentativeNo5626", "updated": "2026-05-20T21:21:52+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omxv8on/", "content": "This is the golden advice. Many lack the courage to do it. I am 42, I plan to retire in Thailand when my daughter is done with undergrad and is independent" }, { "id": "t1_omwlefv", "author": "/u/MiddleRecognition969", "updated": "2026-05-20T17:44:24+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omwlefv/", "content": "🙀🙈❌ I just haven’t gotten my mind around dropping that much cabbage yet ☹️. I need to research an alternative- maybe leave corporate SW dev & do mission-aligned work (land conservation) with benefits at half my salary?" }, { "id": "t1_omy507v", "author": "/u/253-build", "updated": "2026-05-20T22:11:59+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omy507v/", "content": "There needs to be a FIRE insurance co-op, similar to credit unions, except for Healthcare. This group has the financial capacity and the incentive to start it up." }, { "id": "t1_omxnu97", "author": "/u/No_Ad6196", "updated": "2026-05-20T20:41:26+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omxnu97/", "content": "My plan is to live outside the US from age 60 to 70 and drastically reduce healthcare cost and move back to US at 70 with roughly $6M if normal investment years happen." }, { "id": "t1_omz91fw", "author": "/u/mikesfsu", "updated": "2026-05-21T01:59:31+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omz91fw/", "content": "This is why I’m bouncing the fuck out of the US when my wife and I retire. This is nonsense" }, { "id": "t1_omvxedi", "author": "/u/fredochanio", "updated": "2026-05-20T15:59:06+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omvxedi/", "content": "3.5% would be appropriate (assuming no inheritance etc). That is still 45k. so not far off from the 50k" }, { "id": "t1_omxc1qr", "author": "/u/BeatDense9049", "updated": "2026-05-20T19:45:53+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omxc1qr/", "content": "Just get in Medicaid and it’s 100% free… it’s income based not savings based." }, { "id": "t1_omx7h6g", "author": "/u/A70MU", "updated": "2026-05-20T19:24:19+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omx7h6g/", "content": "If my spending is 50k/year after tax, should I budget for 65k /year in investment return due to tax?" }, { "id": "t1_on28x5k", "author": "/u/Top_Substance9093", "updated": "2026-05-21T14:19:22+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/on28x5k/", "content": "you definitely need to account for taxes, but it depends on how much of your money is in which kind of account.\n for example, if 100% of your money is in a Roth IRA, you don't need to account for taxes at all (you've already paid taxes)\n if 80% of your money is in a traditional IRA/401k then you need to account for ordinary income tax at whatever level you're withdrawing.\n e.g. say you're withdrawing $50k in a year from a pre-tax account. assuming you're single, $16.1k is the standard deduction, so you'd pay income taxes on ~$34k. you'd owe ~$4k in federal, plus whatever for state (if your state has an income tax).\n this also changes based on your expenses, because withdrawing more each year means higher tax brackets.\n most good retirement planning tools account for taxes, and have good strategies for which accounts to draw from first, etc." }, { "id": "t1_omvwfc6", "author": "/u/RickJamesBoitch", "updated": "2026-05-20T15:54:50+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omvwfc6/", "content": "How is health care going to be covered?" }, { "id": "t1_omw0p2o", "author": "/u/Ok_Principle9325", "updated": "2026-05-20T16:13:35+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omw0p2o/", "content": "Thats my biggest expense and worry" }, { "id": "t1_omw3uh8", "author": "/u/Acrobatic-Song-3151", "updated": "2026-05-20T16:27:19+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omw3uh8/", "content": "There’s pretty easy jobs in school corporations that offer health care. 180 work days per year and about 7% of those can be covered by sick day and personal days.\n 2.4M, 46 married couple and we’re quietly moving down the “barista fire” path while working in a school. Our spend is much more than yours and we have kids in college, so need to run a several more years off the clock before hanging it up for good." }, { "id": "t1_omw4g47", "author": "/u/Additional_Battle_36", "updated": "2026-05-20T16:29:58+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omw4g47/", "content": "What kind of jobs? I imagine teaching is stressful" }, { "id": "t1_omw5tg5", "author": "/u/scoutfinch72", "updated": "2026-05-20T16:35:59+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omw5tg5/", "content": "My sibling checked out of corporate life in NYC after their spouse escaped from the WTC on 9/11 and their spouse’s family member did not. Sibling works in a middle school cafeteria, decent pay, 25 hours a week with full benefits." }, { "id": "t1_omw80ds", "author": "/u/Acrobatic-Song-3151", "updated": "2026-05-20T16:45:37+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omw80ds/", "content": "Liberian aide at our school gets benefits along with many other non teaching roles. Compared to corporate America it’s all a cake walk." }, { "id": "t1_omwagci", "author": "/u/BoromiriVoyna", "updated": "2026-05-20T16:56:12+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omwagci/", "content": "🇱🇷" }, { "id": "t1_omx44co", "author": "/u/zeradragon", "updated": "2026-05-20T19:08:41+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omx44co/", "content": "The interview must be interesting...\n Why do you want to be a librarian aid?\n Mostly for the benefits, I'm not really concerned about the salary." }, { "id": "t1_omwluek", "author": "/u/MiddleRecognition969", "updated": "2026-05-20T17:46:21+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omwluek/", "content": "If I’m 50+ yrs old with *no kids* - I teach tennis at a nonprofit kids camp every summer, I like kids - would I be a viable candidate?\n Librarian Aid, K12" }, { "id": "t1_omw71ez", "author": "/u/potato_tofu", "updated": "2026-05-20T16:41:24+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omw71ez/", "content": "I was thinking the same thing. It’s gotta be assistant jobs, or something really expendable." }, { "id": "t1_omw9tcp", "author": "/u/mthockeydad", "updated": "2026-05-20T16:53:25+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omw9tcp/", "content": "Janitorial/custodial are odd hours, but have the same benefits." }, { "id": "t1_omwl30h", "author": "/u/Puzzleheaded_Tie6917", "updated": "2026-05-20T17:42:59+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omwl30h/", "content": "School bus driver gets insurance. It’s not much money but it does have benefits." }, { "id": "t1_omwmj85", "author": "/u/NotMyRealAccountV", "updated": "2026-05-20T17:49:25+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omwmj85/", "content": "Curious as well ... as a former teacher turned engineer I assure you engineering is way less stress with far better perks." }, { "id": "t1_omw6h4u", "author": "/u/Glittering_Focus_295", "updated": "2026-05-20T16:38:55+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omw6h4u/", "content": "Are you in a state with expanded Medicaid? If yes, then an ACA plan will be affordable for you." }, { "id": "t1_omwkqbc", "author": "/u/KifLou345", "updated": "2026-05-20T17:41:25+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omwkqbc/", "content": "ACA Marketplace plans (with subsidies) are available in all states. In the ten states that haven't expanded Medicaid, eligibility for Marketplace subsidies starts at 100% of the federal poverty level. In the rest of the states, you need to earn more than 138% of FPL to qualify for subsidies, because Medicaid is available below that level.\n Starting in 2027, Medicaid expansion will have a work requirement of 80 hours per month. But nothing will change about ACA Marketplace subsidies. They're available based on ACA-specific MAGI, so it's only income that matters, regardless of assets." }, { "id": "t1_on3fjix", "author": "/u/seancho", "updated": "2026-05-21T17:30:57+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/on3fjix/", "content": "Why bother with Medicaid? just make sure you have at least 23 grand in capital gains every year and get the cheap or free ACA silver plan. probably better access to quality care anyway." }, { "id": "t1_on2t79x", "author": "/u/ididitFIway", "updated": "2026-05-21T15:50:51+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/on2t79x/", "content": "Actually, the way the law is written, you only need to make 80hrs worth of income at federal minimum wage and it doesn't have to be earned income either. Which means that almost anyone who is RE will still be eligible for Medicaid, though I think we're still waiting for the exact rules from the govt." }, { "id": "t1_on94e62", "author": "/u/JackOfAllDevs", "updated": "2026-05-22T14:27:09+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/on94e62/", "content": "Move somewhere where health care and living cost are not as expensive. There are a lot of other countries where 50k a year from your 401k would get you a very nice life.\n I can't imagine retiring at 35 but I could take a one year sabbatical and come back doing something more enjoyable or just part time." }, { "id": "t1_omwh0mv", "author": "/u/JH_Redd", "updated": "2026-05-20T17:25:02+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omwh0mv/", "content": "Smart. I had an uncle that inherited ~$1M and already had good savings of his own. Retired at 50 in 2008, stock market went down, and he and his wife both had crazy health problems that cost a bunch out of pocket. Ended up having to sell a lot of investments at the absolute lows, and a few years later had to sell his dream house and get a job at Walmart for the health insurance.\n You seem to have a lot of margin for error here with your low spend, but I agree with some of the other commenters about at least considering minimally painful jobs that can cover health insurance for you." }, { "id": "t1_omwhg1r", "author": "/u/Mimopotatoe", "updated": "2026-05-20T17:26:54+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omwhg1r/", "content": "This thread might be helpful: https://www.reddit.com/r/HealthInsurance/s/uu57AScFlj\n Maybe 20 hours a week in the garden section at Lowe’s would be a good option." }, { "id": "t1_omwpsqf", "author": "/u/Important-Youth-4434", "updated": "2026-05-20T18:03:44+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omwpsqf/", "content": "Whats wild is what allowing us to retire early is my wifes colombian citizenship. They have mixed private/public need based healthcare system-so it can be good and its $100 a month for the two of us. An investors visa into a country with good healthcare is a solid option to consider" }, { "id": "t1_omx5c52", "author": "/u/someguy984", "updated": "2026-05-20T19:14:18+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omx5c52/", "content": "Shouldn't be a worry, manage your MAGI.\n How does no one know about the ACA? Puzzling." }, { "id": "t1_omwrmjy", "author": "/u/Wooden-Blueberry-165", "updated": "2026-05-20T18:11:57+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omwrmjy/", "content": "Move to another country and this is easily solved. Malaysia is top 10 for universal healthcare and their national language is English" }, { "id": "t1_omwuhg6", "author": "/u/TennesseeStiffLegs", "updated": "2026-05-20T18:24:50+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omwuhg6/", "content": "Yea but then you have to listen to prayer over the loud speaker several times a day and weed is the death penalty there." }, { "id": "t1_omx65v6", "author": "/u/Wooden-Blueberry-165", "updated": "2026-05-20T19:18:09+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omx65v6/", "content": "Maybe scratch Malaysia then lol. Maybe a nice LCOL European country then. Denmark is great, not sure on the costs but if you get in, get a part time job you enjoy then you’ll reap the benefits of their system. Other countries like Finland, Sweden, Norway, Belgium might be good options too. I’m speaking primarily to healthcare for them vs cost though" }, { "id": "t1_omwl6c5", "author": "/u/KifLou345", "updated": "2026-05-20T17:43:24+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omwl6c5/", "content": "Have you looked at Marketplace plans and used the subsidy estimation tools to get an idea of what's available? Plan options vary by state, but if you show an *income* of $25k per year, you'll qualify for significant subsidies in every state. But you do need an income of at least 100% of the poverty level (actually, above 138% of the poverty level in most states) to qualify for subsidies." }, { "id": "t1_omws8xt", "author": "/u/krilleractual", "updated": "2026-05-20T18:14:45+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omws8xt/", "content": "Lmao join the air force guard! Im kidding its definitely not your lifestyle but the tricare reserve is a good deal" }, { "id": "t1_omxfa65", "author": "/u/beached89", "updated": "2026-05-20T20:00:47+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omxfa65/", "content": "You have quite a bit of buffer, use ACA, it will be a large expense, but it wont drain your savings. Looking at $6k-8k/year i think? Bring your $25k to $33k, you still have ~20k buffer" }, { "id": "t1_omzdk0c", "author": "/u/54trey", "updated": "2026-05-21T02:24:30+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omzdk0c/", "content": "You will almost certainly get free healthcare through the ACA with such low expenses. You just need to engineer your income to be greater than 100% FPL, which you can do via selling investments or performing Traditional to Roth conversions.\n The profile of /u/Zphr has plenty of info on this topic." }, { "id": "t1_omw7o51", "author": "/u/SelectiveEmpath", "updated": "2026-05-20T16:44:09+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omw7o51/", "content": "My gosh the USA imprisons people in their jobs, man." }, { "id": "t1_omwjwok", "author": "/u/SillyPresentation46", "updated": "2026-05-20T17:37:44+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omwjwok/", "content": "100%. This is how pure capitalism works." }, { "id": "t1_omwt5rm", "author": "/u/SouthernZorro", "updated": "2026-05-20T18:18:52+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omwt5rm/", "content": "I call it Predatory Capitalism or The New Feudalism." }, { "id": "t1_omxwf58", "author": "/u/ElonMuskTheNarsisist", "updated": "2026-05-20T21:27:46+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omxwf58/", "content": "It’s intentional. Designed to imprison" }, { "id": "t1_omx4sjr", "author": "/u/Salty-Taro3804", "updated": "2026-05-20T19:11:46+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omx4sjr/", "content": "System absolutely working as intended." }, { "id": "t1_omw13z4", "author": "/u/assmanx2x2", "updated": "2026-05-20T16:15:25+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omw13z4/", "content": "If the dude only needs 25k a year from his investments I'm guessing his ACA subsidy will be maximum" }, { "id": "t1_omwc1p8", "author": "/u/PlanPuzzleheaded1046", "updated": "2026-05-20T17:03:07+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omwc1p8/", "content": "Maybe a good time to move abroad for a while? Lots of countries with inexpensive or universal healthcare and affordable rent. 🤷‍♂️ A couple years in Costa Rica, a few years in Thailand, a 4-5 year popping around to different European countries. Rent or Airbnb your house to cover a good chunk of your expenses. You’re in a great position!" }, { "id": "t1_omxrlyp", "author": "/u/TempAcct20005", "updated": "2026-05-20T21:01:24+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omxrlyp/", "content": "Seriously, I pay 1200 a year for health insurance in Mexico and I have the ultimate plan" }, { "id": "t1_omwjv25", "author": "/u/Outrageous_Length975", "updated": "2026-05-20T17:37:33+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omwjv25/", "content": "He's can pull up to $52k/yr per the 4% rule. After taking into account the standard deduction, his taxes are negligible, and he's probably around 200% FPL or less, so he will qualify for heavy ACA subsidies.\n Even if he isn't, his $25k average annual spend means he has a cushion of spending up to an extra $27k/yr. Healthcare for one 35 year old shouldn't exceed $10k/yr." }, { "id": "t1_omvvfvf", "author": "/u/Ok_Principle9325", "updated": "2026-05-20T15:50:29+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omvvfvf/", "content": "Meant to add - don’t have kids or a wife and I have no desire to get either ever, so the only thing I have to worry about is me." }, { "id": "t1_omw6mby", "author": "/u/Busy_Resort_3262", "updated": "2026-05-20T16:39:33+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omw6mby/", "content": "By saying this, the universe will bless you with both in spades!!!! 🤪" }, { "id": "t1_omxozvo", "author": "", "updated": "2026-05-20T20:47:26+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omxozvo/", "content": "[deleted]" }, { "id": "t1_omxw19p", "author": "/u/Busy_Resort_3262", "updated": "2026-05-20T21:25:51+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omxw19p/", "content": "Here’s a real story.\n My friend was doing fine financially. He fell in love with a woman who likes to spend other people’s money. Somehow, she convinced him to do several unnecessary renovations so he took out a HELOC to finance it.\n She got pregnant, had their first baby, more renovations, more debt piling up. After the first kid, she quit working and had their second kid.\n And now he’s $150K in debt and starting to tap into his 401(k) as she throws lavish birthday parties for the kids." }, { "id": "t1_omyuxix", "author": "/u/SignificantSafety539", "updated": "2026-05-21T00:41:23+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omyuxix/", "content": "The only “former billionaire” I ever met go that way via a divorce" }, { "id": "t1_omzw5iz", "author": "/u/ForeverInBlackJeans", "updated": "2026-05-21T04:19:39+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omzw5iz/", "content": "Sounds like he needs to take some accountability for his decisions and stop thinking with his PP." }, { "id": "t1_omyu8dw", "author": "/u/ama_burner", "updated": "2026-05-21T00:37:16+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omyu8dw/", "content": "Jfc that’s terrible. But there are women (and men for that matter) looking for nice guys like these to take advantage. I know someone like this, started out with a girlfriend that barely worked, then she got pregnant, then married, then she lost her job and got pregnant again, and now is planning to stay home with the kids even though the grandma raises the first one." }, { "id": "t1_on04sey", "author": "/u/Hisugarcontent", "updated": "2026-05-21T05:24:08+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/on04sey/", "content": "Does he have no mind or agency of his own? Otherwise, odd to place joint bad decisions just on her." }, { "id": "t1_on1kh6e", "author": "/u/Busy_Resort_3262", "updated": "2026-05-21T12:13:47+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/on1kh6e/", "content": "They are both responsible for their actions or lack thereof." }, { "id": "t1_omvwoto", "author": "/u/Anymous2314", "updated": "2026-05-20T15:56:00+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omvwoto/", "content": "Invest 60:40, mostly in short term bonds, less than 7 year maturity.\n You can afford to spend around $70k, $50k easily using the 4% rule.\n Do yourself a favor and start learning about investment management and keep yourself fit, these will help you in the long run." }, { "id": "t1_omvyo3e", "author": "/u/Top_Substance9093", "updated": "2026-05-20T16:04:43+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omvyo3e/", "content": "homie, it's only $1.3m liquid. 4% of that is $50k/yr.\n also, with OP's horizon (~50 years) it's probably a good idea to be slightly more conservative than 4%" }, { "id": "t1_omvze18", "author": "/u/Anymous2314", "updated": "2026-05-20T16:07:55+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omvze18/", "content": "Sorry, I missed the part where only 1.3 is investment. I am guessing 600k is home equity." }, { "id": "t1_omw2mvw", "author": "/u/Levitlame", "updated": "2026-05-20T16:22:03+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omw2mvw/", "content": "This is not advice, but more of a question. Wouldn't 60/40 be TOO conservative for that time horizon? That's $520K. How much do you really need to leave accessible at that age for the amount of growth you give up?" }, { "id": "t1_omvxvp9", "author": "/u/el_pezz", "updated": "2026-05-20T16:01:13+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omvxvp9/", "content": "Why are you encouraging op to triple his spending?" }, { "id": "t1_omvyj4r", "author": "/u/Anymous2314", "updated": "2026-05-20T16:04:06+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omvyj4r/", "content": ""Afford to spend" is the key phrase here.\n He is definitely set to retire without worry if he is only going to need $25k/year.\n I doubt it though if one can live with this amount if you add in health insurance cost." }, { "id": "t1_omwpedv", "author": "/u/Puzzleheaded_Tie6917", "updated": "2026-05-20T18:01:57+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omwpedv/", "content": "I would worry about a 25 k$/yr spend. I mean, home insurance, home repair plus health would seem to be above that for most people. People make it on that usually because they don’t have a choice.\n I would want to plan on something higher, a more normal spending amount for most people, like around 80k$/yr if it was me." }, { "id": "t1_omwjzo9", "author": "/u/Easterncoaster", "updated": "2026-05-20T17:38:07+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omwjzo9/", "content": "60/40 short term bonds? For a 35 year old??!!??" }, { "id": "t1_omwddf2", "author": "/u/92eph", "updated": "2026-05-20T17:09:00+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omwddf2/", "content": "60:40 seems overly conservative. The 4% rule only works if your portfolio grows by 4% + inflation. Bonds don't yield enough to support that, so you want to use them to provide near-term stability but otherwise keep your money in a higher-earning investment.\n Based on OP's spending description, $200k in bonds would cover more than 5 years of spending, which should allow OP to keep the rest in diversified or broad market ETF's, well-insulated for market cycles." }, { "id": "t1_omw9phl", "author": "/u/WildWeazel", "updated": "2026-05-20T16:52:58+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omw9phl/", "content": "Well, sorry but you're not "close." You've been financially independent for years. Even being very conservative given your age, you have twice what you need. GFY" }, { "id": "t1_omyi980", "author": "/u/Lazy_Imagination4788", "updated": "2026-05-20T23:27:51+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omyi980/", "content": "Thousands of generations of ancestors bloodline ends with me" }, { "id": "t1_omyxp83", "author": "/u/Ok_Principle9325", "updated": "2026-05-21T00:56:59+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omyxp83/", "content": "Have 3 nieces and 2 nephews, bloodline aint ending" }, { "id": "t1_omvw0mu", "author": "/u/firey-wfo", "updated": "2026-05-20T15:53:01+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omvw0mu/", "content": "You have my permission to make me a sandwich and check out of work." }, { "id": "t1_omvw6id", "author": "/u/Fed_worker", "updated": "2026-05-20T15:53:45+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omvw6id/", "content": "Just walk. You have enough. Explore other options or find your passion." }, { "id": "t1_omz0s34", "author": "/u/wong_bater", "updated": "2026-05-21T01:14:22+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omz0s34/", "content": "Exactly, they now have the complete freedom to reinvent their life as they see fit. Doing close to nothing is a death trap from what I hear." }, { "id": "t1_omvx165", "author": "/u/Old_Cantaloupe_7401", "updated": "2026-05-20T15:57:30+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omvx165/", "content": "$25k annual spend. What the heck do you do for fun." }, { "id": "t1_omvxanu", "author": "/u/jhonkas", "updated": "2026-05-20T15:58:39+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omvxanu/", "content": "video games, but not paying for DLC" }, { "id": "t1_omvzygz", "author": "/u/Ok_Principle9325", "updated": "2026-05-20T16:10:24+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omvzygz/", "content": "Video games 😂" }, { "id": "t1_omwajjw", "author": "/u/at614inthe614", "updated": "2026-05-20T16:56:35+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omwajjw/", "content": "At 25k spend, my "fun" would be paying utilities, property taxes, home & vehicle insurance, and the best fun- eating." }, { "id": "t1_omwbt28", "author": "/u/Longster_dude", "updated": "2026-05-20T17:02:03+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omwbt28/", "content": "Eating? For fun?? Look at Mr./Ms. Moneybags over here!" }, { "id": "t1_omvz7io", "author": "/u/DontFix", "updated": "2026-05-20T16:07:07+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omvz7io/", "content": "Play tennis/pickleball/soccer/ultimate frisbee\n Go on hikes\n Board games\n Lots of low cost high value things." }, { "id": "t1_omz4u2k", "author": "/u/Dzeddy", "updated": "2026-05-21T01:37:04+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omz4u2k/", "content": "Idk if tennis is low cost man" }, { "id": "t1_omz9lxq", "author": "/u/DontFix", "updated": "2026-05-21T02:02:43+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omz9lxq/", "content": "Racket is $50-$125 and everywhere I live has had free courts." }, { "id": "t1_omvxzbo", "author": "/u/el_pezz", "updated": "2026-05-20T16:01:39+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omvxzbo/", "content": "He clearly counts money for fun." }, { "id": "t1_omyeed2", "author": "/u/lintyui", "updated": "2026-05-20T23:05:51+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omyeed2/", "content": "Sometimes it’s not even “what to do to pass the time” but the luxury to do absolutely nothing if I wanted to. I get OP, I soo get it🥲" }, { "id": "t1_on228o9", "author": "/u/point5_2B", "updated": "2026-05-21T13:47:33+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/on228o9/", "content": "So I'm in a similar situation to OP and also get this question, and I don't really get why people think it's pitiable. If you own your home paid off in a walkable/transitable city, $25k is a great life.\n I travel at least twice a year, looking for flight deals and modest accommodations, and am planning to increase this significantly after I RE through slow travel and renting out my home base. I'm quite physically active - climbing is probably my most expensive hobby and costs less than $1500 a year, and I also bike and do calisthenics and attend the occasional fitness class. I have a creative hobby that pays for itself. I do cook a lot and shop at affordable ethnic grocers, but I eat quality meat, seafood and exotic fruits and veg all the time for a grocery budget of $70/week. I dine out several times a week. I budget for gifts for friends and family, I attend weddings and baby showers. I do community-oriented volunteering and what time I have left I like to spend with people I love.\n What I don't do is maintain a huge home/mortgage, own a car (completely unnecessary in my city), go frequently to high end dining/bars, or buy expensive clothes, makeup or gadgets. My partner and I don't plan on kids. I enjoy DIY and try to minimize spend where I can repair or upcycle instead. I feel that I live better than most people who ask me this question and assume that I do nothing!" }, { "id": "t1_omvxeyd", "author": "/u/Just_Frank_Reynolds", "updated": "2026-05-20T15:59:11+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omvxeyd/", "content": "I’m down to game, what are we playing?" }, { "id": "t1_omy2hyo", "author": "/u/StrebLab", "updated": "2026-05-20T21:58:42+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omy2hyo/", "content": "Goat simulator 3" }, { "id": "t1_omyxsaa", "author": "/u/iwatchcredits", "updated": "2026-05-21T00:57:27+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omyxsaa/", "content": "Try banana simulator, just came out. Realistic mode rips" }, { "id": "t1_on2cy2x", "author": "/u/LE_4500", "updated": "2026-05-21T14:38:01+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/on2cy2x/", "content": "Gas Station Simulator beats working at a gas station any day." }, { "id": "t1_on2i3ug", "author": "/u/AlienAway", "updated": "2026-05-21T15:01:28+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/on2i3ug/", "content": "The one about shower with father." }, { "id": "t1_omwrpqc", "author": "/u/t53deletion", "updated": "2026-05-20T18:12:20+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omwrpqc/", "content": "I would coast until I'm terminated not quit. Take the salary until then. See every doctor you might need; primary care, cardiologist for a one time check, and urologist for a vasectomy (trust me bro), now while you're covered and can take medical time off if needed.\n Follow the FIRE rules/guidance for investing and spending.\n Lead your best life bro." }, { "id": "t1_omy41mw", "author": "/u/ps403402", "updated": "2026-05-20T22:06:53+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omy41mw/", "content": "LOL - I was going to say this "vasectomy (trust me bro)" - while you are already covered" }, { "id": "t1_omvwa5e", "author": "/u/DreamTheaterGuy", "updated": "2026-05-20T15:54:12+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omvwa5e/", "content": "You can. 25k is roughly 2% a year." }, { "id": "t1_omvwzun", "author": "/u/Tasty-Day-581", "updated": "2026-05-20T15:57:21+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omvwzun/", "content": "Retire to solo life, no partner, no kids, no nutten. Just sit around for 50 years and get fat on video games. Man, that's a tough deal at any age. Good luck." }, { "id": "t1_omvzriv", "author": "/u/Ok_Principle9325", "updated": "2026-05-20T16:09:34+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omvzriv/", "content": "Definitly not for everyone but I an not family man material haha. Im a huge introvert and love isolation." }, { "id": "t1_omw1m4l", "author": "/u/Unusual-Debt2170", "updated": "2026-05-20T16:17:36+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omw1m4l/", "content": "Good for you" }, { "id": "t1_on0ag53", "author": "/u/annalana29", "updated": "2026-05-21T06:09:46+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/on0ag53/", "content": "How can you say this after writing you want to spend your days cooking for your parents? It's controversial. I would deepen into this "I don't want gf, kids". There is something there... and several ppl have mirrored that back to you here." }, { "id": "t1_omw5gsx", "author": "/u/pointlesslyDisagrees", "updated": "2026-05-20T16:34:28+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omw5gsx/", "content": "Oh god what is he gonna do now? Whatever he wants, whenever he wants?" }, { "id": "t1_omwcfu3", "author": "/u/MaleficentSupport493", "updated": "2026-05-20T17:04:50+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omwcfu3/", "content": "Not on $25k/year, though" }, { "id": "t1_omwh4rw", "author": "/u/Tasty-Day-581", "updated": "2026-05-20T17:25:33+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omwh4rw/", "content": "Sedentary people are not good FIRE candidates, IMO. When you look down and you can't see your....well, you know. Health, including mental and physical are the basis of Fire. OP is lacking both." }, { "id": "t1_omvz9v1", "author": "/u/woodchip4", "updated": "2026-05-20T16:07:24+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omvz9v1/", "content": "Tasty-Day is kinda right here. Im in a similar situation as you. Coincidentally I also love gardening, video games and my dog. But I think after a year or two of vegging out I would probably get bored. So I set my number about 2-2.75x higher than yours right now, so I could add on to my life/options." }, { "id": "t1_omwd2xh", "author": "/u/Ok_Principle9325", "updated": "2026-05-20T17:07:42+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omwd2xh/", "content": "Probably what I should do but Im just tired of going to bed thinking about work." }, { "id": "t1_omwf9j1", "author": "/u/cyhec", "updated": "2026-05-20T17:17:21+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omwf9j1/", "content": "I mean it’s also not like you can get another lighter job once and if you ever get bored! Some feel like this is almost a death sentence lol" }, { "id": "t1_omw5plk", "author": "/u/cranek", "updated": "2026-05-20T16:35:31+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omw5plk/", "content": "Not sure if having more money means you'll be able to find additional value out of life if you can't find/see it already" }, { "id": "t1_omvyxro", "author": "", "updated": "2026-05-20T16:05:54+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omvyxro/", "content": "[deleted]" }, { "id": "t1_omwj7w2", "author": "/u/thaisweetheart", "updated": "2026-05-20T17:34:42+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omwj7w2/", "content": "most men do. my friends cousin told everyone for years he didn’t want to get married and was going to be single for life. now all his friends have companions and many are having kids and he is alone. being unmarried and not wanting kids is fine, but as you get older some type of social support - good friends, gf/ bf, good neighbor is necessary." }, { "id": "t1_omw4v2g", "author": "/u/Good_Phone4355", "updated": "2026-05-20T16:31:48+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omw4v2g/", "content": "This is my dream, get fat on video game alone. My PS3 games is untouched since 2012. I study and work too hard. now I want to get them back, PS3, PS4, and my PS5 games." }, { "id": "t1_omvwlcp", "author": "", "updated": "2026-05-20T15:55:34+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omvwlcp/", "content": "[deleted]" }, { "id": "t1_omvxbjx", "author": "/u/sam4o19", "updated": "2026-05-20T15:58:46+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omvxbjx/", "content": "I have 1 billion net worth at 30 and annual spend of 15 dollars and 3 chicken nuggets. Can I retire?" }, { "id": "t1_omvxgkd", "author": "/u/el_pezz", "updated": "2026-05-20T15:59:22+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omvxgkd/", "content": "What industry do you work in?\n Do you plan on having a family?\n With 1.9m, I'd retire lol." }, { "id": "t1_omwauwf", "author": "/u/Ok_Principle9325", "updated": "2026-05-20T16:57:56+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omwauwf/", "content": "law\n No\n I think i will haha" }, { "id": "t1_omx0c5z", "author": "/u/Reasonable_Phys", "updated": "2026-05-20T18:51:26+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omx0c5z/", "content": "Conversely - you've been working a terribly hard job which I assume has paid you handsomely given the amount you've saved and you still have your parents.\n Find your passion - sure. But I'm sure you could do something valuable where you'd be paid X amount for part time work. You could easily COAST fire.\n I'd definitely quit today and see where life takes you. Even if that means being a game review youtuber." }, { "id": "t1_on5ova7", "author": "/u/KookyDig4769", "updated": "2026-05-22T00:19:09+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/on5ova7/", "content": "In law, dependent of your status, you should easily be able to just go on hiatus and just try it for some time. As a lawyer for example, you could basically return at any age if you really wanted or had to." }, { "id": "t1_omvw60v", "author": "/u/Confident_Bridge_382", "updated": "2026-05-20T15:53:41+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omvw60v/", "content": "Yup, you're there. Congratulations!" }, { "id": "t1_omw24dh", "author": "/u/DocGomer", "updated": "2026-05-20T16:19:50+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omw24dh/", "content": "Make sure when you come up with that 25K average annual spend you factor in periodic large expenses, such as major home repairs, new cars, major health issues. Think of the timeline when one of those might occur and the cost of them. estimate on the high side. Take that amount divided by a years to occur and add all those amounts to your typical average spend. For example, a new car average is 50 K right now and if you get a new car every 10 years, that’s 5K you need to add to your yearly spend (I’m not saying you’re gonna get a new car, but new cars should last you 10 years while used cars to pending condition may or may not. I’m currently at 14 years on one car and hope to get a few more out. New cars also usually major repairs under warranty, where if you got a used car and the transmission went out you need to factor that in to)." }, { "id": "t1_omvz7ly", "author": "/u/ThreedZombies", "updated": "2026-05-20T16:07:07+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omvz7ly/", "content": "If you can do 3-5 more years you’ll be more than golden. Or maybe just take a basic fun job to supplement you in the next 5 years." }, { "id": "t1_omw78an", "author": "/u/TheHumanConnector", "updated": "2026-05-20T16:42:15+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omw78an/", "content": "Here's my story. I feel retired - done with this shitty system. I want to contribute to society and uplift my people and spread joy.\n Retired at 37 with a mil. That's enough tbh but if I need to make some money with changing life circumstances, I can get a job.\n My life is vibrant and beautiful now 💚\n Good luck in whatever you choose. I made my decision overnight. It serves me well." }, { "id": "t1_omvx6ex", "author": "/u/shoguncdn", "updated": "2026-05-20T15:58:08+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omvx6ex/", "content": "I have zero concept of how anyone lives on $25k a year." }, { "id": "t1_omw0x2y", "author": "/u/Ok_Principle9325", "updated": "2026-05-20T16:14:35+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omw0x2y/", "content": "Paying off my house cut my spending in half tbf. I don’t like to travel and I cook everything I eat, so basically just be a introvert haha" }, { "id": "t1_omw0c1x", "author": "/u/Lightbluefables8", "updated": "2026-05-20T16:12:01+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omw0c1x/", "content": "If I didn't have to pay for housing, my annual spend would be between $22k and $25k" }, { "id": "t1_omwhlzi", "author": "/u/thaisweetheart", "updated": "2026-05-20T17:27:37+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omwhlzi/", "content": "you don’t want to go on vacation?" }, { "id": "t1_omxldpy", "author": "/u/jajefan", "updated": "2026-05-20T20:29:13+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omxldpy/", "content": "I live in one of arguably the top 3 US HCOL metros and average the same non-housing costs with 2 international trips and one domestic trip a year (included in the 22-25k). I live car-free which helps a ton. It’s pretty doable tbh…" }, { "id": "t1_omxwuyl", "author": "/u/thaisweetheart", "updated": "2026-05-20T21:29:57+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omxwuyl/", "content": "what does that breakdown look like? my trips are usually 1k for a domestic, closer to 5k for international" }, { "id": "t1_omw6903", "author": "/u/feed_me_tecate", "updated": "2026-05-20T16:37:54+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omw6903/", "content": "That's a property tax bill around here." }, { "id": "t1_omw2zq0", "author": "/u/vanyaorchid", "updated": "2026-05-20T16:23:36+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omw2zq0/", "content": "In Europe it is pretty easy." }, { "id": "t1_omxnsy4", "author": "/u/Diddly_eyed_Dipshite", "updated": "2026-05-20T20:41:15+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omxnsy4/", "content": "My actual costs of living, basic but more than comfortable (mortgage, bills, groceries, spending, socialising etc) are about 10k a year. Counting for 2-3 vacations (usually 2 international and 1 national), 2-3 festivals, and unexpected costs I'd say maybe 15k. In the 20-25k range and we're talking renovations, luxury spends, and basically blowing money.\n Thats western Europe. Difference in costs of living in different countries is wild." }, { "id": "t1_omy5wwi", "author": "/u/Voldy256", "updated": "2026-05-20T22:16:55+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omy5wwi/", "content": "Not live in the US? In any European country, living by yourself, 25k a year is more than enough." }, { "id": "t1_omw7tq9", "author": "/u/mikesfsu", "updated": "2026-05-20T16:44:50+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omw7tq9/", "content": "God these posts are terrible. Op has 1.3 mil and paid off house and spend 25k, am I good?\n Can you do basic math? 1.3m x 0.04 = 52k. So double what you need. Yeah you’re good. Enjoy retirement" }, { "id": "t1_omz7s24", "author": "/u/golfscrambler", "updated": "2026-05-21T01:52:33+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omz7s24/", "content": "He’s also asking what he’s missing. Like the health care consideration. It’s not an unreasonable post" }, { "id": "t1_omwxoa7", "author": "/u/mozillazing", "updated": "2026-05-20T18:39:23+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omwxoa7/", "content": "you're gonna be fine 100000% fine.\n plus since you're 35 you'll probably get bored after 6 months and start inventing a new source of income just for the hell of it." }, { "id": "t1_omxp1v8", "author": "/u/Crafty_Result2486", "updated": "2026-05-20T20:47:43+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omxp1v8/", "content": "I live in a very HCOL area, but I can't imagine 25k a year being doable. I mean, between property tax, food, utilities, car if you have one, some extra here and there, etc, it must be anywhere between 40k and 50k. Plus, you then need to account for health insurance, which, as many have said before, it's 1k per month at your age. I mean, we live in the US, a country with so many opportunities (I'm an immigrant, and I know exactly how tough it is overseas), but also very expensive. That's why I doubt your budget is realistic.\n Seriously, pal, stick around corporate America for a bit longer. At least try to reach 2.3/2.5M NW. Where I live, nobody would consider retirement with less than 3 or 4M invested, plus a house fully paid for. Just curious, where do you live? Midwest? I don't want to know the zipcode, obviously, just the area or the state if you can. I might explore options to retire over there when my family and I are ready for it." }, { "id": "t1_omw5ef6", "author": "/u/AlvinChipmunck", "updated": "2026-05-20T16:34:10+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omw5ef6/", "content": "Dude you are the man. How did you do this? Im dying of envy lol well done\n Yes absolutely walk away. You can rent your home and go live in thailand, colombia, Mexico, Indonesia, anywhere you want. Or relax in your paid off home\n You win the game of life" }, { "id": "t1_omwflsh", "author": "/u/Ok_Principle9325", "updated": "2026-05-20T17:18:51+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omwflsh/", "content": "Live like a hermit for 15+ years lol, cant say I recommend it unless you have my personality and Im a fucking weirdo by any metric" }, { "id": "t1_omyrpnt", "author": "/u/Ancient-Swordfish292", "updated": "2026-05-21T00:22:35+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omyrpnt/", "content": "I think I have a similar personality. 11 years in on this plan, lol." }, { "id": "t1_omx7k70", "author": "/u/free_-_spirit", "updated": "2026-05-20T19:24:43+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omx7k70/", "content": "Are you in a job that you can easily return to? Honestly take a vacation and see how you feel. 1.9 seems like a lot but it’s good to have options. What if you change your mind about marriage, kids, etc." }, { "id": "t1_omvw0fy", "author": "/u/Worth-Tutor-8288", "updated": "2026-05-20T15:52:59+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omvw0fy/", "content": "Yes" }, { "id": "t1_omvxvze", "author": "/u/Playful-Spinach-4040", "updated": "2026-05-20T16:01:15+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omvxvze/", "content": "How much are taxes on a 600k house…? Where I am, that’s nearly 10k a year and you’re only spending 25k annually?" }, { "id": "t1_omwb041", "author": "/u/Ok_Principle9325", "updated": "2026-05-20T16:58:33+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omwb041/", "content": "Low and I live in a historic registry neighborhood so we get half off taxes" }, { "id": "t1_omvz8fk", "author": "/u/whatchuknowboutdat", "updated": "2026-05-20T16:07:13+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omvz8fk/", "content": "How is $25k annual spend? Break this down plz." }, { "id": "t1_omzjg5c", "author": "/u/TreeFiddy_FI", "updated": "2026-05-21T02:57:47+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omzjg5c/", "content": "I'll give a short breakdown since my spend was near this for many years in a typically VHCOL area.\n Basically it boils down to living a life that not many people want to (Roommates, Bike to work, Cook for yourself almost always, and eat cheap. Entertain yourself cheaply/independently). Worked for me at the time, but now my costs are significantly higher for various reasons.\n *Rent: ~750/month (1 room in a 4 person shared house in a cheap area).\n *Phone: ~50/month (It's now actually cheaper)\n *Gifts: ~50/month (Basically just Christmas I think, maybe no significant other at the time)\n *Dining Out: ~150/month Nothing fancy, but eating out at Panda Express when I wanted to.\n *Groceries: ~275/month (Cooked majority of my meals, lots of salad, eggs, stir fries, oatmeal.) Made a cold-cut for work lunch every day. Didn't feel like deprivation.\n *Transportation: ~50 a month. Biked to work and back, and used a bus pass (paid for as work perk since I didn't use a parking stall) for when bike wouldn't cut it. Leaned on friends otherwise.\n *Entertainment: ~110/month (Video games when heavily discounted, Shoes/equipment/dues for sports, tickets for movies/shows/concerts every 1-3 months.)\n *House stuff: <50/month (Had shitty inherited furniture and just my one room)\n *Misc: ~250/month Clothes, Furniture, more entertainment stuff.\n *Medical ~20/month (copay for 1 annual check in, no issues.)\n *Travel ~60/month (1 flight/trip to see family during Christmas, stayed with family)\n *Donation ~20/month\n Total: $22,020 Year Spend from above.\n This is approx, and my actual expenses included a few other things not applicable to most people (E.g. Grad school tuition)" }, { "id": "t1_omxoaqk", "author": "/u/Diddly_eyed_Dipshite", "updated": "2026-05-20T20:43:47+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omxoaqk/", "content": "25k annual is twice ny actual costs, if we include everything like multiple vacations, no restraint in eating out, lots of socialising etc I'd say I hit about 15-20k." }, { "id": "t1_omzw1hc", "author": "/u/Timely_Recover4054", "updated": "2026-05-21T04:18:52+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omzw1hc/", "content": "I live on 12k. $400 rent with three roommates, $150 on utilities and phone, $250 on groceries and food, $100 for car, $100 for misc. The rest goes into savings (I make about 17k a year)." }, { "id": "t1_omvwsn3", "author": "/u/MattLorien", "updated": "2026-05-20T15:56:28+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omvwsn3/", "content": "Exercise to reduce risk of disease significantly - and you should be fine.\n I'd recommend having a small source of income that you enjoy to make the first couple years transitioning a bit easier." }, { "id": "t1_omvwvk1", "author": "/u/red__what", "updated": "2026-05-20T15:56:49+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omvwvk1/", "content": "Yes, you won" }, { "id": "t1_omvxowf", "author": "/u/KuyaJester", "updated": "2026-05-20T16:00:23+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omvxowf/", "content": "Go home and chill young fella" }, { "id": "t1_omxs2lg", "author": "/u/PracticalTank8836", "updated": "2026-05-20T21:03:59+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omxs2lg/", "content": "I have trouble believing that your expenses are on $25,000 a year. What will your health insurance cost?" }, { "id": "t1_omz4lil", "author": "/u/UpsetSwordfish5328", "updated": "2026-05-21T01:35:43+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omz4lil/", "content": "This post is so wholesome. You’re living my dream OP" }, { "id": "t1_omvxnwg", "author": "/u/taracel", "updated": "2026-05-20T16:00:16+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omvxnwg/", "content": "You’re very young, which is awesome for flexibility/optionality and return to work is possible if needed …. So do it !" }, { "id": "t1_omw2vh4", "author": "/u/tepaia", "updated": "2026-05-20T16:23:04+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omw2vh4/", "content": "Why don’t you go part time?" }, { "id": "t1_omvw2u1", "author": "/u/Fun_99", "updated": "2026-05-20T15:53:17+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omvw2u1/", "content": "Following" }, { "id": "t1_omvx8a9", "author": "/u/Not_Buying", "updated": "2026-05-20T15:58:22+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omvx8a9/", "content": "Go to a retirement planning site like Boldin and run the simulations on your scenario. At 35, you’ll need that nest egg to carry you for at least 50 years to be safe. Healthcare alone is likely to eat up most of your annual spending." }, { "id": "t1_omvxopw", "author": "/u/Nearby_Impact_8911", "updated": "2026-05-20T16:00:22+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omvxopw/", "content": "If I were you, I would assuming you have healthcare" }, { "id": "t1_omvxski", "author": "/u/Numerous-Anemone", "updated": "2026-05-20T16:00:50+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omvxski/", "content": "Yep seems like it! And I’m pretty conservative with this kind of stuff" }, { "id": "t1_omvy06p", "author": "/u/Woberwob", "updated": "2026-05-20T16:01:45+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omvy06p/", "content": "$25k average annual spend? I’d say to live a little, but I think you’re in a good spot." }, { "id": "t1_omvy5o1", "author": "/u/Lucky_Calligrapher93", "updated": "2026-05-20T16:02:26+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omvy5o1/", "content": "Yes" }, { "id": "t1_omw2a6c", "author": "/u/Dry_Bird1790", "updated": "2026-05-20T16:20:32+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omw2a6c/", "content": "How about just a long-ass break?" }, { "id": "t1_omw3lrl", "author": "/u/_DBA_", "updated": "2026-05-20T16:26:16+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omw3lrl/", "content": "Sell house, move somewhere cheaper also." }, { "id": "t1_omw3mzd", "author": "/u/Pinklady777", "updated": "2026-05-20T16:26:25+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omw3mzd/", "content": "Would barista fire be an option? Can you get a part-time job to cover your expenses and provide healthcare and let your investments grow a little more? You're in great shape! But might want a little more padding since the future feels so uncertain. And you hopefully have a lot of years to go." }, { "id": "t1_omw46lm", "author": "/u/bklynparklover", "updated": "2026-05-20T16:28:48+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omw46lm/", "content": "Does your spending include property taxes and home maintenance? That seems low for a $600K house, but perhaps your parents live there and pay those." }, { "id": "t1_omw4pkg", "author": "/u/Ok_Reputation4142", "updated": "2026-05-20T16:31:07+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omw4pkg/", "content": "Yes. This is a no brainer based on your summary.\n QUIT YOUR JOB!" }, { "id": "t1_omw5azz", "author": "/u/ImGriffDanger", "updated": "2026-05-20T16:33:45+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omw5azz/", "content": "25k annual spend ? On what? Air and water ?" }, { "id": "t1_omw5kq3", "author": "/u/godofguitar3", "updated": "2026-05-20T16:34:56+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omw5kq3/", "content": "How is your annual spend only 25K in this day and age? Where do you live?" }, { "id": "t1_omw7962", "author": "/u/Double-Steak4321", "updated": "2026-05-20T16:42:21+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omw7962/", "content": "You are going to live my dreaming life! Play and stream video game like it’s my full time job! Don’t listen to those saying you are too young and video game is not a “health hobby”. Play hard when you are still young and full of energies.\n I don’t understand the mind set of people saying stick around for 10 more years. Whats the point when OP clearly has the number but still waste 10 year of their golden years in a job they dislike." }, { "id": "t1_omw8sdy", "author": "/u/MafiaMan456", "updated": "2026-05-20T16:48:59+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omw8sdy/", "content": "I have the EXACT same situation, age and net worth as you. I’m so damn tired but I’m trying to hold on for 5 more years to have a chunkier retirement so I can help support my immediate family and aging parents who have all been in education their whole lives and have almost nothing saved.\n How does your family come into the picture here are they self sustained? I worry if I quit now and something big happens in the family that I need to cover, I’ll have to go back to work." }, { "id": "t1_omwiphk", "author": "/u/LilRedDuc", "updated": "2026-05-20T17:32:25+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omwiphk/", "content": "You can be done. Just stop grinding and live a bit. Go fight some bosses and get more life XP. You’re young enough you can go back to work eventually if you want to later. Or not." }, { "id": "t1_omwlce4", "author": "/u/Your_Worship", "updated": "2026-05-20T17:44:08+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omwlce4/", "content": "I’d coast, and take some easy job I enjoyed." }, { "id": "t1_omwp9bm", "author": "/u/Daily-Trader-247", "updated": "2026-05-20T18:01:19+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omwp9bm/", "content": "Yes, Easy ... It that is your real spend your done.,\n I am not fire but a person but living off dividends and with 1.3M I could easily generate $104K a year in distributions to live off, in your case you only need a fraction of that to make 25K and you can keep the rest fully invested forever" }, { "id": "t1_omwz19a", "author": "/u/Kokukenji", "updated": "2026-05-20T18:45:36+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omwz19a/", "content": "You should be able to walk away from a job that you hate but I think you're still young that you'll eventually get bored. Take a break and while taking said break, think of things that you think you'll enjoy doing and still get paid to do so that you can continue building your investment and/or pad for fun stuff.\n Congrats!!" }, { "id": "t1_omx68vx", "author": "/u/KittyLilith17", "updated": "2026-05-20T19:18:32+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omx68vx/", "content": "Take the next 6 months and live on it. Now, factor in what you want to DO with your free time. If you want to travel, look up those average costs. If you want to make things, get into hobbies, etc. Look at those costs and project inflation. If you can do it over the next 6 months and don't go over your budget, then go for it." }, { "id": "t1_omx7zf4", "author": "/u/Rare_Ad_8212", "updated": "2026-05-20T19:26:45+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omx7zf4/", "content": "Why is health insurance so important to this group? Honest question, I get if you have a spouse and kids, or a chronic condition, but if you're a solo healthy person, I've found going to private smaller clinic/provider and paying out of pocket to be more cost effective, especially if I tell them I want to pay before leaving they don't have time to add on all the extras and I just pay for an office visit and the labs I requested, if I do this 2x/year it comes out to <$2000 and there are even more affordable options on the internet now. I usually do 1-2 international trips where I get dental stuff sorted out and anything bigger I would plan a trip to Turkey or South Korea specifically for that, it's a fraction of the price and the care is way better than the US, travel insurance is also more affordable than the BS offered on the market here" }, { "id": "t1_omxj950", "author": "/u/Brainwashedgoatz", "updated": "2026-05-20T20:19:25+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omxj950/", "content": "Bc if you get cancer or have a chatostophic injury then youre fucked" }, { "id": "t1_omx8ii6", "author": "/u/FinancialMoney6969", "updated": "2026-05-20T19:29:16+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omx8ii6/", "content": "Grind it out a lil more" }, { "id": "t1_omx9e03", "author": "/u/hollowbitrate", "updated": "2026-05-20T19:33:27+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omx9e03/", "content": "With a paid off house, no dependents, low spending, and $1.3M invested at 35, this sounds more like burnout than a math problem. At a 3–4% withdrawal range, $25k annual spending is already pretty covered on paper. The bigger question is probably whether “never working again” is actually the goal or just escaping the current job and clients. Taking a long break or shifting into lower stress part-time work could also completely change how things feel without risking long-term security." }, { "id": "t1_omxob11", "author": "/u/Oc34ne", "updated": "2026-05-20T20:43:50+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omxob11/", "content": "I always see mentioned here account for large sums for healthcare. Why not emigrate after you've made the bag and avoid that problem entirely? Especially in a situation similar to this where you have no dependants / wife. You could cruise control in some great climates with this modest portfolio forever." }, { "id": "t1_omxurgt", "author": "/u/Haunting_Industry_15", "updated": "2026-05-20T21:19:16+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omxurgt/", "content": "The biggest risk here for me is one day you will meet your future spouse, then it may change your completely picture of your post FIRE plan." }, { "id": "t1_omy3vcb", "author": "/u/Ok_Ninja7574", "updated": "2026-05-20T22:05:57+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omy3vcb/", "content": "Why would you not live the life you want based on a hypothetical that you know you don't want? And why would this hypothetical person not contribute in any way financially? Seems very silly." }, { "id": "t1_omxutjc", "author": "/u/Substantial-Light-83", "updated": "2026-05-20T21:19:35+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omxutjc/", "content": "Take a year off and travel . Figure things out" }, { "id": "t1_omxwyz2", "author": "/u/DisastrousParsley873", "updated": "2026-05-20T21:30:30+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omxwyz2/", "content": "Walk away where? I don’t get this early retirement thoughts. If you are in mid 40s early 50s may be." }, { "id": "t1_on36o86", "author": "/u/Ok_Bluebird_168", "updated": "2026-05-21T16:51:25+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/on36o86/", "content": "Stroll, read, relax and slow down. You know, the stuff we used to do before 50 hour weeks became the cultural norm." }, { "id": "t1_omxyicv", "author": "/u/porschedreamin", "updated": "2026-05-20T21:38:18+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omxyicv/", "content": "25k annual spend and you have 1.9m my brother you can literally put that in a HYSA and live a higher quality of life than you are off pure interest. STRAIGHT SEND IT . Congrats 35 is amazing" }, { "id": "t1_omxyl9r", "author": "/u/Slap5Fingers", "updated": "2026-05-20T21:38:42+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omxyl9r/", "content": "Of the $1.3M invested; is X% in certain retirement accounts or is it ALL just taxable brokerage?" }, { "id": "t1_omyddfd", "author": "/u/Toffeemade", "updated": "2026-05-20T22:59:58+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omyddfd/", "content": "You're done. At your age and 1.9, with a reasonable lifestyle and returns, it'll be doubling every five years before inflation. You'll die a billionaire." }, { "id": "t1_omyvloi", "author": "/u/Obvious-Spite4920", "updated": "2026-05-21T00:45:09+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omyvloi/", "content": "Do it" }, { "id": "t1_omyxflu", "author": "/u/Chippies01", "updated": "2026-05-21T00:55:29+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omyxflu/", "content": "Can always go back to work. Or work part-time right?" }, { "id": "t1_omyy8o6", "author": "/u/MEchav1270", "updated": "2026-05-21T01:00:01+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omyy8o6/", "content": "Fuck yes bro!! Do it!!!" }, { "id": "t1_omz4bx8", "author": "/u/chili_cold_blood", "updated": "2026-05-21T01:34:12+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omz4bx8/", "content": "Please tell me I’m close.\n Will your average spend change when you stop working?" }, { "id": "t1_omz54tp", "author": "/u/noluckatall", "updated": "2026-05-21T01:38:44+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omz54tp/", "content": "There is no way that 25k includes health insurance and/or realistic medical costs. You really ought to work out a detailed and realistic post-retirement budget." }, { "id": "t1_omz5y39", "author": "/u/SingleArtichoke4857", "updated": "2026-05-21T01:43:12+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omz5y39/", "content": "I mean, with a true $25k operating overhead, you could MOSTLY fuck off but also cover that nut while your investments grow. Don't get locked in to a false binary choice...you can work less." }, { "id": "t1_omz8hjc", "author": "/u/PhillyHank", "updated": "2026-05-21T01:56:27+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omz8hjc/", "content": "😂 your post is 🔥 “I hate my clients. Hate my job. Please tell me the math works out.” You had me laughing bc so many feel this way right now. You know your money is enough: $1.3M at 5% interest or return > your annual spend. Done. ✔️\n But there’s more right? You want a wife; a family? What is it?\n I can share this as an old guy: this is probably the worst leadership and work environment I’ve ever seen; I’ve seen 3 recessions. Good news: Every time… Post recession the work environment improves (for a time)." }, { "id": "t1_omzia8s", "author": "/u/ichliebekohlmeisen", "updated": "2026-05-21T02:51:02+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omzia8s/", "content": "My suggestion would be to test drive it. Have all your salary deposited in a separate account. Live off the investments, and transfer the cost you would be paying for healthcare into the account with your salary etc. see how you like it. If it’s comfortable and you truly don’t use any of the salary/bonus, then you have your answer." }, { "id": "t1_omzzm3g", "author": "/u/Ok-Payment-7318", "updated": "2026-05-21T04:44:40+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omzzm3g/", "content": "What if I tell you that I can be your pet🥲?" }, { "id": "t1_on09vbf", "author": "/u/YOLOontheGO", "updated": "2026-05-21T06:05:01+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/on09vbf/", "content": "put the fries in the bag bro" }, { "id": "t1_on0np3s", "author": "/u/Abraxxes", "updated": "2026-05-21T08:03:08+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/on0np3s/", "content": "You could have done it at $500k with a paid off house. Go for it man." }, { "id": "t1_on0xplj", "author": "/u/GhostCouncil_", "updated": "2026-05-21T09:33:26+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/on0xplj/", "content": "Live off the dividends big dog\n That’s what I’m doing at that point" }, { "id": "t1_on3av5s", "author": "/u/Capable_Parsley7284", "updated": "2026-05-21T17:10:29+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/on3av5s/", "content": "Take a sabbatical, taking time off to travel or change your perspective used to be a thing." }, { "id": "t1_on3yzbi", "author": "/u/thewestwingish", "updated": "2026-05-21T18:58:42+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/on3yzbi/", "content": "25k annual spend? How? Where?" }, { "id": "t1_on44gw2", "author": "/u/Hour_Presentation_30", "updated": "2026-05-21T19:24:27+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/on44gw2/", "content": "You’ve got to consider your free time.. does your spend include the hobbies you’d pick with more time, or anything that you would do that isn’t free? The only thing that would suck worse than not being able to retire is retiring too early and in your late 40s or 50s having to go back to work..can you make it another 5 years.. and how much would you make in that time.." }, { "id": "t1_on4kehu", "author": "/u/hongos_me_gusta", "updated": "2026-05-21T20:39:01+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/on4kehu/", "content": "as some one else said run your numbers, CoL, the 4% rule, adjust for inflation, and/or live at 3% to be safer.\n I can relate or I had a job I truly hated years ago. Consider part-time work and/or drastically changing your career to something you enjoy more. Do the research. Try on new jobs by either volunteering, interviewing someone that works in that field, etc. Consider what education, certifications, knowledge, skills, etc. you would need to get into that work and the time it'd require." }, { "id": "t1_on4otp5", "author": "/u/samlowrey", "updated": "2026-05-21T21:00:08+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/on4otp5/", "content": "You're close, but count on that $25k spend to double every 5 years (i.e. inflation), and that doesn't include unexpected life expenses (e.g. health, investment loss, natural disasters.....etc.)" }, { "id": "t1_on61j2y", "author": "/u/Story_Healthy", "updated": "2026-05-22T01:35:22+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/on61j2y/", "content": "Congratulations, but 35 is young. I knew someone that retired at 31, single man, never wanted kids. Then he met someone, and they have 3 kids, and he’s had to go back to work. Things change. People change, and priorities change. Maybe you can do some other kind of work that’s less demanding." }, { "id": "t1_on64y77", "author": "/u/Western_Rhubarb_7959", "updated": "2026-05-22T01:56:19+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/on64y77/", "content": "If your spend is truly 25k per year I think you should be able to comfortably retire on that much, even adding in health insurance via ACA.\n I am 60 and in the same ballpark as you financially and about to retire. I strongly suggest you spend a couple grand on a proper financial advisor to review your assets.\n And having said that, remember you can always "get a part time job at a hardware store" for some income. Or even a fulltime job if needed, you're only 35. Geezers like me don't get many offers lol.\n /Well, I have 3 different companies sniffin' if I'll do consulting for them. Maybe in 6 months" }, { "id": "t1_on6j6v1", "author": "/u/Economy-Watch3211", "updated": "2026-05-22T03:27:39+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/on6j6v1/", "content": "Get a wife have kids. Have a life. Then you will see," }, { "id": "t1_onc7z37", "author": "/u/dusty2blue", "updated": "2026-05-22T23:39:43+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/onc7z37/", "content": "Lets say you move the $1.3M to TIPS for the inflation protected return and we lock in your expenses at $25k/yr adjusted for inflation.\n $1,300,000 / 25,000 = 52 years.\n You have 52 years of liquidity.\n 35 + 52 =87\n You have enough liquidity to reach 87 which is about consistent with the US life expectancy for an adult at 65.\n So objectively, you have the bare minimum it will take to live life but it requires inflation on your actual expenses to align with general inflation. That’s possible but since TIPS rate is based on a basket of expenses at a national level, it possible they dont always align when factoring in localization and overexposure/underexposure to certain expense categories that are weighted when calculating TIPS rate.\n It also assumes no changes in expenses or lifespan. No health insurance expense. No technological advance in the next 50 years that prolongs life. No illness/disease or accident that drains your account. No splurge spending or travel. No major home repairs. No large property tax increases. Reasonable insurance rate hikes (or if you forgo insurance, no casualty/loss of the home)\n Personally, I feel like $25k/yr living expenses would get pretty boring after a few years and the possibility of living longer cant be discounted…\n Now in fairness, I probably wouldn’t move to 100% TIPS… more likely I’d keep the next 5-10 years in TIPs and the rest invested so 80/20 or 90/10.\n That investment sleeve would hopefully grow faster than inflation alone and would provide for later years as well as some splurges but now you’re also exposed to a return sequencing.\n A year like 2022 with markets down a 20-30% cuts into projected savings over time significantly, and while that’s why we hedge with the 5-10 years of expenses in TIPs, there’s no guarantee the market bounces back that quickly or that you otherwise dont lose some ground and end up on with a shortfall, especially later in life.\n Given all of this, I would personally want more buffer…\n But then that buffer can be made up in other ways.\n With your savings and expenses, Im going to guess you’re not working for minimum wage and are probably a reasonably well compensated individual working full time…\n You could take up consulting and probably fund your entire year’s worth of expenses with 1-2 months worth of work.\n Even working part-time in a menial job would defray at least some expenses and make the math work better.\n Which comes back to $25k living expenses for the next 50 years sounds more like existing than living to me so what will you do when you reach the point of boredom with that? There’s a reason a lot of peope work past retirement age or return to work after retiring even when they dont need it financially. They usually have too much of their identity tied to work but you’re also talking about filling a lot of hours on a shoe string budget." }, { "id": "t1_oncdl97", "author": "/u/tomsgirl1962", "updated": "2026-05-23T00:13:25+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/oncdl97/", "content": "If you can afford one, live your life." }, { "id": "t1_onojam1", "author": "/u/GuidanceNew8166", "updated": "2026-05-24T22:07:44+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/onojam1/", "content": "Marry me." }, { "id": "t1_omvw2dr", "author": "/u/bikesandhikes33", "updated": "2026-05-20T15:53:14+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omvw2dr/", "content": "Just do the math - you are clearly there. If what you want is permission from a stranger to pull the trigger, then yes dude, do it!" }, { "id": "t1_omvwrde", "author": "/u/sharpiebrows", "updated": "2026-05-20T15:56:19+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omvwrde/", "content": "Id say you're good! After some time, if you feel you dont have enough, you could always find another job later. But hopefully you wont even have to bother with that. You certainly have enough to stop being miserable right now." }, { "id": "t1_omvwsr8", "author": "/u/Brainwashedgoatz", "updated": "2026-05-20T15:56:29+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omvwsr8/", "content": "Id stick it out for another 10 years or switch to a more enjoyable job to let that compound interest kick in. Then you'll be set for life" }, { "id": "t1_omvxhxt", "author": "/u/GambledMyWifeAway", "updated": "2026-05-20T15:59:32+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omvxhxt/", "content": "He’s already set if his spend is less than 2% of his investments." }, { "id": "t1_omvxl55", "author": "/u/Rabbidowl", "updated": "2026-05-20T15:59:56+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omvxl55/", "content": "Dude what were you doing for 1.3m at 35??" }, { "id": "t1_omvxopc", "author": "/u/HerdazzledGancho", "updated": "2026-05-20T16:00:22+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omvxopc/", "content": "I’d rather be homeless smoking crack on the street broke and depraved than only spending 25k a year. FIRE has made some of you literally insane." }, { "id": "t1_omvxuz0", "author": "/u/Creative_Pen7789", "updated": "2026-05-20T16:01:07+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omvxuz0/", "content": "You’re fully ready, granted that you keep your expenses that low for a while, like ten years. You’ll probably want to work again in a year or two anyways. Find something low stress!!" }, { "id": "t1_omvxyub", "author": "/u/marcduberge", "updated": "2026-05-20T16:01:35+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omvxyub/", "content": "Sabbatical" }, { "id": "t1_omvy903", "author": "/u/aceman97", "updated": "2026-05-20T16:02:50+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omvy903/", "content": "Yes. Send it. Go Fuck Yourself!" }, { "id": "t1_omvyi11", "author": "/u/Choice-Newspaper3603", "updated": "2026-05-20T16:03:58+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omvyi11/", "content": "I’d maybe slow down a bit before pulling the plug. Maybe part time work. Healthcare is going to be a big factor although you might not think so right now. Along with dental and vision a little" }, { "id": "t1_omvyq6c", "author": "/u/jerwang24", "updated": "2026-05-20T16:04:58+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omvyq6c/", "content": "No need to ask for permission. Go for it." }, { "id": "t1_omvz296", "author": "/u/scam_likely_6969", "updated": "2026-05-20T16:06:28+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omvz296/", "content": "Do it up. You’re there" }, { "id": "t1_omvzah7", "author": "/u/RenoGuy25", "updated": "2026-05-20T16:07:28+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omvzah7/", "content": "Stick it out 3-5 more years. You're going to want a bigger existence in retirement once the trauma of surviving the rat race wears off." }, { "id": "t1_omvzhd9", "author": "/u/Beginning-Comedian-2", "updated": "2026-05-20T16:08:19+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omvzhd9/", "content": "Sounds like the biggest issue isn't finances, but how you're going to be productive and have purpose in your life.\n 35 is very young to just sit around all day." }, { "id": "t1_omvzu8a", "author": "/u/Deerbos", "updated": "2026-05-20T16:09:53+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omvzu8a/", "content": "You want to be alone forever?" }, { "id": "t1_omw0m5f", "author": "/u/Ok_Principle9325", "updated": "2026-05-20T16:13:13+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omw0m5f/", "content": "Dated a ton in my 20s, very much over it. Was always happier by myself tbh" }, { "id": "t1_omw0my4", "author": "/u/Unusual-Debt2170", "updated": "2026-05-20T16:13:19+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omw0my4/", "content": "You made it buddy" }, { "id": "t1_omw1c3u", "author": "/u/Zestyclose-Dish-407", "updated": "2026-05-20T16:16:24+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omw1c3u/", "content": "Yes" }, { "id": "t1_omw1giy", "author": "/u/Math-Hatter", "updated": "2026-05-20T16:16:56+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omw1giy/", "content": "You don’t have to die with it either." }, { "id": "t1_omw1l34", "author": "/u/MaidMarian20", "updated": "2026-05-20T16:17:28+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omw1l34/", "content": "You can always leave whenever you want. We all can.\n You may need to rethink it over time because things change - investments change, you fall in love, we go to war and the whole economy tanks, who knows.\n It’s those unforeseen scenarios that crop up that may mean you may need to make adjustments, like a part time gig, or downsizing - whatever.\n The one thing I don’t see on Fire/here often is your insurance portfolio, just like your investment portfolio. Consider disability insurance in case you ever get disabled and need more adaptable care or nursing, physical therapy; a good top notch health insurance because you just never know. Property and casualty insurance including for floods if that happens in your area; and top shelf car insurance for the drunk guy with no insurance that hits you broadside and you take years to get back on your feet. And long term care insurance, if you can get it. Best decision I ever made, because I got sick, and had good health insurance, but then needed more lifelong care and thank heavens for the insurance agent who sold me long term care before I was 50 because the rates were so much lower, just in case - which I’m sorry to say happened to me out of the blue.\n Living large at home sounds like fun now, but wonder what life will be like at 45 or 65 or 75? Tough to project that far in the future, and none of us have a crystal ball, but your 25k could double or triple in 15 years if inflation stays high. And if you do get sick or in an accident and can’t go back to work, you need to protect yourself somehow. A good insurance agent can walk you through it all, and your 25 just might end up higher, but it’s worth every penny, for peace of mind, and so much cheaper at your age. Just make sure you get a policy that’s lifelong and they can’t cancel.\n And congratulations! Good on you. And Insurance agents don’t usually charge for advice, your estate planning lawyer can refer you to someone." }, { "id": "t1_omw1wce", "author": "/u/AmexNomad", "updated": "2026-05-20T16:18:52+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omw1wce/", "content": "What do you like to do for fun? I’m (F65) busy traveling a lot with the gal pals. This isn’t cheap." }, { "id": "t1_omw26o5", "author": "/u/National-Active5348", "updated": "2026-05-20T16:20:06+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omw26o5/", "content": "Nice job . You can retire" }, { "id": "t1_omw2j34", "author": "/u/CosmicQuantum42", "updated": "2026-05-20T16:21:36+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omw2j34/", "content": "I’ll play devils advocate for a second. I don’t know how much you make but working just 1-2 more years might be HUGE. If you’re not drawing down your nest egg and you’re saving a lot just a couple of years might put you at $2.2MM or $2.3MM.\n If you HATE working ok I get it, but sticking it out a couple more years may have a surprisingly large contribution to your future arc." }, { "id": "t1_omw3bkm", "author": "/u/ZonkTrader", "updated": "2026-05-20T16:25:03+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omw3bkm/", "content": "How can you possibly only have a $25k annual spend? Just simple things like RE tax $10k, homeowners insurance $3k, utilities $3k, gas/car insurance $3k and you are left with about $500 a month for everything else. I guess it's possible in theory but that is very lean. I assumed a $600k home so RE tax could be higher or slightly lower depending on the state. Those numbers don't include healthcare but as long as your AGI is in the sweet spot which is above medicaid (need a certain amount to qualify for marketplace otherwise kicked over to medicaid). As long as you are realistic in the your budget then it looks like you could walk away but maybe a compromise would be to find a job you enjoy that pays something, I realize that is probably not too easy as most retail or customer service jobs are not going to be enjoyable. I personally love dogs so I would like to volunteer at a shelter." }, { "id": "t1_omw3l1x", "author": "/u/Hat__Rack", "updated": "2026-05-20T16:26:11+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omw3l1x/", "content": "Reddit is getting so many new users recently. 90% of all posts in this sub are day old accounts and they have all recently become millionaires or are jaded with early retirement, weird." }, { "id": "t1_omw3zp4", "author": "/u/its_over_2022", "updated": "2026-05-20T16:27:57+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omw3zp4/", "content": "The answer is yes, quit!" }, { "id": "t1_omw46gb", "author": "/u/Cautious_Explorer_33", "updated": "2026-05-20T16:28:47+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omw46gb/", "content": "How does one only spend $25k per year? I assume you will have to pay for medical after you quit your job and that will be $1000 a month. But yeah you can retire easily at that low of a burn rate.\n Also this: remember $1M in 401K is not the same as $1M in personal investments since Mr Tax Man is gonna take 30-35% of that. But still great job!" }, { "id": "t1_omw4n54", "author": "/u/Deepstateciaagent", "updated": "2026-05-20T16:30:49+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omw4n54/", "content": "I have lived this kibd of life for 3 years and change. Got paid $150-200k to do nothing, remote. I went back to a hybrid job because I was insanely bored and unfulfilled with that much free time. I played games, traveled, etc.. but it got boring" }, { "id": "t1_omw4yry", "author": "/u/Domethegoon", "updated": "2026-05-20T16:32:15+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omw4yry/", "content": "I would work a few more years until 38-40 to let your investments grow and then think about retiring. Life is expensive and will only continue to get more expensive. You would be a lot more comfortable sitting on an investment account of 2.5M rather than 1.3M." }, { "id": "t1_omw50i1", "author": "/u/Used_Beautiful_5485", "updated": "2026-05-20T16:32:28+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omw50i1/", "content": "Apply for an entry level government job and just do the minimum to keep it for good health insurance." }, { "id": "t1_omw5fs1", "author": "/u/hhefnr", "updated": "2026-05-20T16:34:20+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omw5fs1/", "content": "Yep, welcome to the club." }, { "id": "t1_omw6390", "author": "/u/AnotherAverageNobody", "updated": "2026-05-20T16:37:12+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omw6390/", "content": "I would try easing into the transition with part time first" }, { "id": "t1_omw6e9g", "author": "/u/Busy_Resort_3262", "updated": "2026-05-20T16:38:33+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omw6e9g/", "content": "Is your $1.3MM all in taxable brokerage account?\n If no, what amount do you have in your taxable?\n Use 3% withdrawal rate to be safe since you have a loooooong runway." }, { "id": "t1_omw7977", "author": "/u/Particular-Drive-168", "updated": "2026-05-20T16:42:21+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omw7977/", "content": "I am sure you are golden lol" }, { "id": "t1_omw79u7", "author": "/u/DesperateAdvantage76", "updated": "2026-05-20T16:42:26+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omw79u7/", "content": "What is your current income? If it's high enough, it might be worth working a few extra years to dramatically increase your lifetime annual spending limit. In your 30s, you're looking at another 40+ years, doesn't hurt to work a little longer to open up all sorts of options for traveling and hobbies etc (as an introvert I love 3d printing, buying expensive tools, nice computers etc and it all adds up, also it's fun renting out an airbnb for a month somewhere nice even if you plan to spend a lot of time gaming while you're there, I did this in hawaii while still raiding in WoW). As of now, especially after health insurance, you're looking at a rather basic lifestyle on your current budget, which you might want to change up as you'll suddenly have a lot more free time when you retire." }, { "id": "t1_omw7b01", "author": "/u/Ok-Basket2794", "updated": "2026-05-20T16:42:35+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omw7b01/", "content": "The way to go! In Europe that is simply impossible at this age. Go and enjoy your life!" }, { "id": "t1_omw7d5y", "author": "/u/alphawolf29", "updated": "2026-05-20T16:42:50+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omw7d5y/", "content": "I absolutely would, maybe get a part time job in something you enjoy for a little extra money just for a more robust plan." }, { "id": "t1_omw7isx", "author": "/u/dreamkanteen", "updated": "2026-05-20T16:43:31+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omw7isx/", "content": "$25k spending only? Yah you should go for it. Just dont get depressed. Im in a very similar boat as you. I recommend you find a job you would enjoy (part time or seasonal or both), like work at a garden center, just to keep a routine. Losing that flow can seriously mess with you. Do a trial run and 'downsize' your job. Put that money into safe dividend stocks so you dont touch the principle until youre older. Goodluck bro" }, { "id": "t1_omw7jz4", "author": "/u/SlackBytes", "updated": "2026-05-20T16:43:39+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omw7jz4/", "content": "If you wanna be lazy then just buy spyi and retire asap" }, { "id": "t1_omw8yc3", "author": "/u/Aggravating_Loss_765", "updated": "2026-05-20T16:49:42+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omw8yc3/", "content": "Just 25k annual spend at 1.9m level? Wow" }, { "id": "t1_omwfult", "author": "/u/Ok_Principle9325", "updated": "2026-05-20T17:19:55+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omwfult/", "content": "Im a hermit 😅" }, { "id": "t1_omw97so", "author": "/u/Shadow1ynx", "updated": "2026-05-20T16:50:50+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omw97so/", "content": "Yeah put like 800k in dividen stuff like qqqi and you'll be making like 90k+ for year and still have over a million growing, go for it" }, { "id": "t1_omw97xe", "author": "/u/ComplexOccam", "updated": "2026-05-20T16:50:51+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omw97xe/", "content": "I would love to hear how you’ve accumulated the wealth.\n But yes full send to fire with the low average spend" }, { "id": "t1_omwgqyl", "author": "/u/Ok_Principle9325", "updated": "2026-05-20T17:23:51+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omwgqyl/", "content": "70% Largely mag dumping low cost index funds, never sell, try to have some cash when Mr Mango announces tariffs, war, or aliens\n 25% buying bitcoin after its dropped 50% each cycle, buying leaps on mstr and coin 1 year prior to halving, sell during 1 year following halving, take proceeds and buy puts on those same companies during the bull run, sell when bitcoin crashes. Rinse and repeat fear greed cycles\n 5% leap calls after big red weeks or months on spy" }, { "id": "t1_omw981v", "author": "/u/Aernak", "updated": "2026-05-20T16:50:51+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omw981v/", "content": "I would quit in a heartbeat. Go enjoy your life! F being a corporate slave in this awful system. Dealing with people and corporate nonsense all day nearly does me in. Covid was the happiest year at my job because I could work from home. Last year I was off work recovering from a surgery for 8 weeks and it was the best summer I’ve had in well over a decade." }, { "id": "t1_omw98v9", "author": "/u/HalfwaydonewithEarth", "updated": "2026-05-20T16:50:57+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omw98v9/", "content": "Yes you can walk away. You have enough to fly to cheaper places for various medical treatments.\n I hope you find a sweet lover to play video games with you." }, { "id": "t1_omw9bxi", "author": "/u/sailaway4269now", "updated": "2026-05-20T16:51:20+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omw9bxi/", "content": "No wife is key. You couldn’t do it with one" }, { "id": "t1_omw9cb4", "author": "/u/Top-Rope6148", "updated": "2026-05-20T16:51:23+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omw9cb4/", "content": "You’ve got potentially 60 more years to live. Lots of things can happen in 60 years. If you live 30, then have a significant expense, like something health related or a loss you failed to insure or a family member in need…then you’ve got no time to rebuild your nest egg. You’re done. Your goose is cooked. If you work 20 more years, you’re untouched 1.3 will be worth $6mm.\n At the same time, your 25k will turn into $50k per year of spending. And 25k seems like a pretty shitty boring life for the next 50 or 60 years. Why don’t you just find a job you like that pays at least $25k/year. I get wanting the FI. Don’t get wanting the RE at age 35." }, { "id": "t1_omw9etv", "author": "/u/jonahtrav", "updated": "2026-05-20T16:51:41+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omw9etv/", "content": "I am no expert at all but if your expenses are at 25,000 a year how about finding a job that you can stand or maybe even like and just continue your path of saving and investing . To me you seem like you're in a good position to adjust to a less stressful job in the plus with jobs is it keeps you in communicating with people so if you have a job that there's not much stress and you can enjoy people instead of always thinking how can I keep making money and like everybody else said Healthcare is a major issue" }, { "id": "t1_omwa0ya", "author": "/u/TwoNearby3883", "updated": "2026-05-20T16:54:21+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omwa0ya/", "content": "You're done. Go have fun!" }, { "id": "t1_omwai36", "author": "/u/Ok_Principle9325", "updated": "2026-05-20T16:56:24+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omwai36/", "content": "Based on the responses I think you’re right. Im getting out by the end of this year" }, { "id": "t1_omwarkx", "author": "/u/Unlikely_Act_5898", "updated": "2026-05-20T16:57:32+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omwarkx/", "content": "Dude. Why not take time off You can easily go find a another way to make money if needed." }, { "id": "t1_omwb05g", "author": "/u/Ludiam0ndz", "updated": "2026-05-20T16:58:33+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omwb05g/", "content": "Go for it.." }, { "id": "t1_omwbecp", "author": "/u/Dino_Nugget123456789", "updated": "2026-05-20T17:00:14+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omwbecp/", "content": "Find a part time job you like/is not too bad and let your money grow?" }, { "id": "t1_omwbf4m", "author": "/u/Longster_dude", "updated": "2026-05-20T17:00:20+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omwbf4m/", "content": "Sounds like you're burnt out, like me. Your finances looks decent but you've got a long life ahead of you--plenty of time for wrenches to be thrown at you. Sure, you can walk away. Just be open to coming back at some point. AKA: take a sabbatical without a set end date and see how it goes. That's what I'm thinking of doing, except my situation is a bit different with kids in the picture." }, { "id": "t1_omwc4j3", "author": "/u/ccoakley", "updated": "2026-05-20T17:03:27+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omwc4j3/", "content": "Please tell me, how did you get your spend down to $25k? Property taxes, insurance (car, house, health?), getting a new gaming rig every 4 years, monthly/annual budget for games, beater car every 4 years(?), etc. Please, I need to learn your ways. Fuck, I spend 1000 on food a month (I feed my kids, but not my parents)." }, { "id": "t1_omwc4pt", "author": "/u/Oddly-Specific-Point", "updated": "2026-05-20T17:03:29+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omwc4pt/", "content": "Account for how you’re going to spend your time too." }, { "id": "t1_omwcs24", "author": "/u/blueaznsbo", "updated": "2026-05-20T17:06:21+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omwcs24/", "content": "You good" }, { "id": "t1_omwcu9b", "author": "/u/Comfort48", "updated": "2026-05-20T17:06:37+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omwcu9b/", "content": "I am more conservative in this. I would try to get to 1.8 or 2M in investment. Good for you though. You could try it with the possibility of having to go back to work." }, { "id": "t1_omwd40r", "author": "/u/johnwickcz", "updated": "2026-05-20T17:07:50+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omwd40r/", "content": "More motivation to not get married. Must be nice. I'm 30 with net worth of about 750K. Also debating if marriage is worth it." }, { "id": "t1_omwdz10", "author": "/u/theweirddood", "updated": "2026-05-20T17:11:37+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omwdz10/", "content": "You can always work part time time where for health insurance benefits. You said that's your biggest expense and worry.\n Maybe find a job, with benefits, that correlates with your hobby, but only do it part time to prevent burn out or hating your hobby. Meaning if you are a cyclist, work at a local bike shop." }, { "id": "t1_omwe19g", "author": "/u/Fearless-Act-345", "updated": "2026-05-20T17:11:52+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omwe19g/", "content": "You sound like you're burnt out- You should get offline, touch grass, go on a hike, find a spiritual path" }, { "id": "t1_omwe2je", "author": "/u/Last_Kaleidoscope496", "updated": "2026-05-20T17:12:02+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omwe2je/", "content": "No matter what, you’re going to do something with your time.\n It’ll probably be rewarding in the long run if you can get into a position that you enjoy. Change careers. Find something you want to do. And it doesn’t even have to pay well! Plus, you don’t have to worry about losing your job." }, { "id": "t1_omwe3pn", "author": "/u/RocMerc", "updated": "2026-05-20T17:12:10+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omwe3pn/", "content": "If I was in your shoes I’d prolly partime retire. Like get a little job just to get me out two days a week. I’m 35 and right now work 8-1 mon-fri and love it" }, { "id": "t1_omwed02", "author": "/u/Rogue_Plumbus_315", "updated": "2026-05-20T17:13:20+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omwed02/", "content": "go to Peru" }, { "id": "t1_omwemy9", "author": "/u/AsleepAd9785", "updated": "2026-05-20T17:14:33+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omwemy9/", "content": "Let it compound for more\n Years" }, { "id": "t1_omweraq", "author": "/u/softstarlightxo", "updated": "2026-05-20T17:15:05+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omweraq/", "content": "1.9m with a paid off house and 25k spend is an insanely comfortable margin, you are not close you are already there." }, { "id": "t1_omwf7yk", "author": "/u/Vegetable_Method9797", "updated": "2026-05-20T17:17:09+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omwf7yk/", "content": "Sorry, but you can’t do that. We all made a pact a long time ago that no one gets to quit early. When we quit, we all quit together. Don’t be selfish. 😏\n Love,\n Mr. Jealous" }, { "id": "t1_omwfbm9", "author": "/u/retroclimber", "updated": "2026-05-20T17:17:36+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omwfbm9/", "content": "My only advice is to not go insane. Schedule your time with things you love." }, { "id": "t1_omwfz1h", "author": "/u/jl21000000", "updated": "2026-05-20T17:20:28+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omwfz1h/", "content": "Get that sevvy" }, { "id": "t1_omwg9s2", "author": "/u/AcrobaticHyena6624", "updated": "2026-05-20T17:21:46+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omwg9s2/", "content": "Only you can decide this my guy.\n Trying letting yourself to separately feel out the emotions if you: - Could never walk away: what would that require you to feel - Walking was happening, out of your control: what would that require you to feel?\n Being stuck in a choice may be a fear of feeling, try feeling both sides (not easy I know) and it may just resolve itself" }, { "id": "t1_omwgucv", "author": "/u/diyandmc240", "updated": "2026-05-20T17:24:17+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omwgucv/", "content": "For very early retirement, I think 2.5% withdrawal rate is a lot more realistic.\n That puts you around 32k annual withdrawal with your liquid investments.\n 25k annual spend is pretty low. As many recommended, you’ll want to fully calculate what healthcare may cost. You may also be retired for 50 years. Do you plan to meet someone and get married? Or date? Or other things that may increase your spend. One of the things you may find is that your expenses actually go up when you don’t have work, you have way more time that you’ll want to fill with activities etc.\n If you can truly keep your annual spend under 30k for the rest of your life, you should be good. That being said, 50 years is a long time. It’s possible that markets will not repeat what they have done for the last 70 years over the next 50 years.\n Wishing you all the best on whatever you decide to do." }, { "id": "t1_omwhjsd", "author": "/u/CecilTerwilliger", "updated": "2026-05-20T17:27:21+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omwhjsd/", "content": "What if enjoying life leads to finding a wife and having kids ?" }, { "id": "t1_omwhklg", "author": "/u/Pale_Will_5239", "updated": "2026-05-20T17:27:27+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omwhklg/", "content": "This is impressive. Do some travel and live in a low cost country" }, { "id": "t1_omwi9cg", "author": "/u/Icy-Sheepherder-7595", "updated": "2026-05-20T17:30:27+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omwi9cg/", "content": "How did you get to $1.9M in your mid 30s? I'm at almost $150k and a decade younger and would love to reach that point but it feels less and less likely every day." }, { "id": "t1_omwih4x", "author": "/u/Gendrytargarian", "updated": "2026-05-20T17:31:24+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omwih4x/", "content": "Yup you can. If you are afraid. Do barista fire to meet some people maybe get healthcare or move to a country where your money goes further or healthcare is universal" }, { "id": "t1_omwii9t", "author": "/u/Careless-Junket-330", "updated": "2026-05-20T17:31:32+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omwii9t/", "content": "What do you do for a living? Asking for a friend 😃" }, { "id": "t1_omwjpiu", "author": "/u/Ok_Principle9325", "updated": "2026-05-20T17:36:52+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omwjpiu/", "content": "Lawyer - I do not recommend" }, { "id": "t1_omwijsp", "author": "/u/Muted-Stranger-4831", "updated": "2026-05-20T17:31:44+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omwijsp/", "content": "You can walk away. Just as long as you never need to go to the hospital or the doctor." }, { "id": "t1_omwiz6k", "author": "/u/theLastJones777", "updated": "2026-05-20T17:33:37+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omwiz6k/", "content": "$25k annual spend? Yes your retirement can happen now.\n You can put 25% VTI, 25% VXUS and that covers your fundamentals without worry. Reinvest these dividends and you'll do well.\n Put the other 50% in SPYI for income. You'll have more then double your expenses as after-tax income.\n Well done 👏 ✔️" }, { "id": "t1_omwj1ds", "author": "/u/slapchopchap", "updated": "2026-05-20T17:33:53+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omwj1ds/", "content": "Yes indeed my friend- inside the US you can very safely live out your days in a LCOL area.\n Get yourself a wife and you could wind up with 950k net worth 😁\n Congrats! You obviously don’t have to, but could be worth checking out diff divi paying stocks or ETFs to keep some money flowing in while having a decent amount parked in the market" }, { "id": "t1_omwjiye", "author": "/u/SillyPresentation46", "updated": "2026-05-20T17:36:02+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omwjiye/", "content": "Your annual spend is actually $25k? This is far below SWR of 3.5% on $1.3m. Given the duration of retirement until social security, I would personally probably try to stay with something like 2.5% SWR to be safe, but a $25k spend is well within this as well. I'm not sure how you can spend so little, but otherwise the numbers make sense to me." }, { "id": "t1_omwjklx", "author": "/u/brereddit", "updated": "2026-05-20T17:36:15+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omwjklx/", "content": "OP, it’s probably fine but keep in mind you can also do little easy jobs that might be fun like refurbish furniture, uber delivery/driving—like if you like listening to podcasts you could do a small job driving for a few hours. Or start a little web business—or go on tik tok and sell widgets for commissions. Anyway, have a great life," }, { "id": "t1_omwjvjc", "author": "/u/-Tech808", "updated": "2026-05-20T17:37:36+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omwjvjc/", "content": "Oh you’re basically me, but without the great portfolio. Do what you have to my friend!" }, { "id": "t1_omwk9k1", "author": "/u/Puzzleheaded_Tie6917", "updated": "2026-05-20T17:39:19+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omwk9k1/", "content": "1.3 mill should cover $50k/yr. However, tax and medical have to be covered. Also, 25k is a super low annual spending amount. I would be worried about committing to that kind of low spending for forever.\n If it were me, I would seriously consider working 7-10 more years to reach over 2 million and retire at 45. I know works a pain, but that’s a long time to live on the low side of spending." }, { "id": "t1_omwkkty", "author": "/u/WearyTranslator3338", "updated": "2026-05-20T17:40:45+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omwkkty/", "content": "“I have 2 million saved up, can I retire?”\n “Have you had a runny nose in the last 10 years, if so, your medical bills will be too high”.\n The US healthcare system sucks" }, { "id": "t1_omwkmw5", "author": "/u/pumpkin_pasties", "updated": "2026-05-20T17:41:00+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omwkmw5/", "content": "That’s an insanely low spend, health insurance alone is over $1k a month for 1 person" }, { "id": "t1_omwlhjb", "author": "/u/TTar10", "updated": "2026-05-20T17:44:47+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omwlhjb/", "content": "yes. go enjoy life" }, { "id": "t1_omwlv21", "author": "/u/NorthernJackass", "updated": "2026-05-20T17:46:26+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omwlv21/", "content": "Become a passive income investor and get paid for life. Check out the subreddit with the same name." }, { "id": "t1_omwmha2", "author": "/u/Temporary-Hat6842", "updated": "2026-05-20T17:49:10+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omwmha2/", "content": "Go for it" }, { "id": "t1_omwn9uc", "author": "/u/guy244", "updated": "2026-05-20T17:52:38+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omwn9uc/", "content": "Try it. You can always find work later if you need to. Maybe you’ll even find a low stress job you’ll enjoy doing" }, { "id": "t1_omwnpwv", "author": "/u/DookieMcDookface", "updated": "2026-05-20T17:54:35+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omwnpwv/", "content": "Sounds doable. Congratulations" }, { "id": "t1_omwo76v", "author": "/u/JonCocktoastin", "updated": "2026-05-20T17:56:41+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omwo76v/", "content": "Yes, with expenses that low I think you are pretty set." }, { "id": "t1_omwolw4", "author": "/u/Specific_Pilot_328", "updated": "2026-05-20T17:58:27+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omwolw4/", "content": "No reason not to your spend is tiny compared to your withdrawal rate." }, { "id": "t1_omwprgc", "author": "/u/grumpy0282", "updated": "2026-05-20T18:03:35+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omwprgc/", "content": "lmao\n you dont say what youre earning off your investments\n how the F do we know if you can" }, { "id": "t1_omwpwsp", "author": "/u/New_Modem", "updated": "2026-05-20T18:04:15+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omwpwsp/", "content": "I WISH I was here. Financially yes, but in terms of KNOWING what would make me happy, I’m not there yet and it SUCKS waiting yo figure it out. I never thought I would get to financial freedom and then feel so lost about the rest of it.\n Pull the trigger. Have a happy life doing what you want to do!!" }, { "id": "t1_omwqrcu", "author": "/u/Jibber1332", "updated": "2026-05-20T18:08:03+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omwqrcu/", "content": "wtf? 25k annual spend??? Are you Amish?" }, { "id": "t1_omwqsj2", "author": "/u/StrawberryMotor1638", "updated": "2026-05-20T18:08:12+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omwqsj2/", "content": "What video games do you like? I’m into mlb the show right now and have 0 time to play. I totally feel you." }, { "id": "t1_omwqszm", "author": "/u/PositiveHairy5725", "updated": "2026-05-20T18:08:15+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omwqszm/", "content": "I mean if you have no ties to the USA, you can live a life of royalty in a different country. Southern Europe or south east Asia. Latin America too." }, { "id": "t1_omwqwbr", "author": "/u/blacksmith3951", "updated": "2026-05-20T18:08:40+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omwqwbr/", "content": "Sounds like you need a sabbatical and are burn out, which you should do" }, { "id": "t1_omwrbcc", "author": "/u/Wooden-Blueberry-165", "updated": "2026-05-20T18:10:32+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omwrbcc/", "content": "Dude, move to another country. Live like a king and do exactly what you’re saying you want to do" }, { "id": "t1_omwrugb", "author": "/u/ConstructionNo8827", "updated": "2026-05-20T18:12:55+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omwrugb/", "content": "Only issue is healthcare - solve that and you’re golden" }, { "id": "t1_omwshgx", "author": "/u/Puzzleheaded-Ease758", "updated": "2026-05-20T18:15:51+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omwshgx/", "content": "Financially….i think so… just make sure the boxes for mental, social, emotional and spiritual are checked" }, { "id": "t1_omwso20", "author": "/u/palmoyas", "updated": "2026-05-20T18:16:40+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omwso20/", "content": "Easily." }, { "id": "t1_omwswtu", "author": "/u/ZeroSumGame007", "updated": "2026-05-20T18:17:45+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omwswtu/", "content": "25k annual spend?\n Holy crap. That’s what I pay in property tax each year. Maybe I need to cut back…" }, { "id": "t1_omwu90u", "author": "/u/MulberryAutomatic690", "updated": "2026-05-20T18:23:47+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omwu90u/", "content": "There's still plenty of time for an oopsie baby 😂" }, { "id": "t1_omwufiv", "author": "/u/PrehensileTail86", "updated": "2026-05-20T18:24:35+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omwufiv/", "content": "Where do you live that you have a house paid off and only spend 25k annually?" }, { "id": "t1_omwwaee", "author": "/u/dhouseh1", "updated": "2026-05-20T18:33:01+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omwwaee/", "content": "Brother you are literally living the dream. I’d be outta there yesterday. Great job" }, { "id": "t1_omwwalz", "author": "/u/707808909808707", "updated": "2026-05-20T18:33:03+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omwwalz/", "content": "Is there a better job you could do to generate income while having fun? Also what happens when you meet a nice woman?" }, { "id": "t1_omwwgm9", "author": "/u/GiraffeKnuckle", "updated": "2026-05-20T18:33:48+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omwwgm9/", "content": "As far as health care why not just open a HSA (health savings account) where your money is being invested and you can withdraw it at retirement and in the meantime use it for any medical expenses when needed but it's growing at the same time, probably the best option" }, { "id": "t1_omwwmpw", "author": "/u/MrLB____", "updated": "2026-05-20T18:34:35+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omwwmpw/", "content": "Yes you’re definitely good to go ,, Vanguard PAS then talk to a healthcare broker locally between the three of you you can come up with a plan to truly have affordable healthcare\n Easy Peezy" }, { "id": "t1_omwx57q", "author": "/u/Spiritual_Chain6298", "updated": "2026-05-20T18:36:58+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omwx57q/", "content": "Tell me how you did it pls and thx" }, { "id": "t1_omwxsdh", "author": "/u/myglue13", "updated": "2026-05-20T18:39:54+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omwxsdh/", "content": "what are you gonna do when you finally decide you want a family?" }, { "id": "t1_omwxun8", "author": "/u/FlyingDumplingTrader", "updated": "2026-05-20T18:40:12+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omwxun8/", "content": "keep working" }, { "id": "t1_omwydcn", "author": "/u/Imaginary-Case3976", "updated": "2026-05-20T18:42:36+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omwydcn/", "content": "No wife and no kids? you are golden without those blood suckers…lol" }, { "id": "t1_omwz0go", "author": "/u/wutangdizle", "updated": "2026-05-20T18:45:30+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omwz0go/", "content": "u gonna get bored of video games" }, { "id": "t1_omx0g56", "author": "/u/maskrey", "updated": "2026-05-20T18:51:56+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omx0g56/", "content": "My best advice is: you can walk away, but don't think about forever. You have your expenses low, which makes you far ahead of most people. You can afford to have a break, even a very long one, 1-2 years. But then, find a new life. The life you are thinking of living forever is not worth living. Try to find something else. As long as you don't have major lifestyle changes, you have all the time in the world. Go out and touch grass as the kids say. Be positive and you will find out that there is so much of the world to see.\n I don't think you can be more introverted than I was. At 18, I was too scared to answer phone calls from strangers. Always in the far corner of any room. Lost sleep over presentations I had to do. Even 10 years after that, I could barely talk to girls for more than two sentences. But I adjusted, very slowly, but I did. Now I'm happily married. Frequently do presentations and talk to big business clients. Show authority in my interactions. I still don't enjoy public speaking, but I actually enjoy meeting new people. And doing those things, even if they are not in my nature, allow me to do things that I like a lot, and mean a lot more to me than staying in my house playing video games.\n People can change. You can change. FI is good, it means you can afford to change. But it doesn't make your life more meaningful, even to you. Doing things does." }, { "id": "t1_omx0p30", "author": "/u/Crazy-Car948", "updated": "2026-05-20T18:53:02+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omx0p30/", "content": "Yeah" }, { "id": "t1_omx1biq", "author": "/u/princemousey1", "updated": "2026-05-20T18:55:48+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omx1biq/", "content": "Yes, you can. $26k expenses on $1.3m means you are only drawing 2% a year. Put the entire thing into something like VT." }, { "id": "t1_omx1kzh", "author": "/u/Direct-Protection-81", "updated": "2026-05-20T18:56:59+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omx1kzh/", "content": "Asia, stocks and yes. Easily. 1.9mill, hold for 5 years, that's 3m if your smart with investments. If you can't see that financially makes sense for you to play video games for the next 20 years I don't know what will. Heck there are people on the breadline playing video games all day lol." }, { "id": "t1_omx1t78", "author": "/u/mi3chaels", "updated": "2026-05-20T18:58:01+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omx1t78/", "content": "are you happy spending 25k for life? Or realistically no more than say 2x that?\n Have you accounted for health care? With a 25k spend, it's likely you'd qualify for very inexpensive and good ACA insurance by keeping your MAGI between 138 and 150% of the federal poverty level. This assumes you are in the US (in most other countries where FIRE is feasible, you'd have universal healthcare not dependent on a job). The only real potential problem is if the ACA goes away, but so far it seems that is not in the cards.\n Even if subsidies got a lot less generous, your 1.3mil could easily support up to double your current spending, so there's a lot of margin for error." }, { "id": "t1_omx1z4p", "author": "/u/Emergency-Agency-571", "updated": "2026-05-20T18:58:45+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omx1z4p/", "content": "There are some Christian health share and maybe non religious ones that are great affordable options. And not even all of the Christian ones make you sign a statement of faith." }, { "id": "t1_omx2kjg", "author": "/u/Powerful-Bridge-1472", "updated": "2026-05-20T19:01:29+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omx2kjg/", "content": "Just get a gig you enjoy and coast" }, { "id": "t1_omx2v82", "author": "/u/Thagame501", "updated": "2026-05-20T19:02:53+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omx2v82/", "content": "I would say with no kids and no spouse that OP, might not fit in a school setting. I'm doing the bus driver thing now and it's good most of the time and really bad some of the time. The benefits are nice though for such little work." }, { "id": "t1_omx3yoj", "author": "/u/CostCompetitive3597", "updated": "2026-05-20T19:07:57+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omx3yoj/", "content": "Let me suggest you consider investing in dividend income stocks and funds to replace your work income and pay your health insurance premiums.\n Currently, dividend index ETF funds based upon the S&P 500 and Nasdaq 100 stock indices are yielding 10%+ annual income. Your $1.3M in investments has the potential of yielding $130,000/ yr. I am achieving 16% yield on my dividend portfolio now with 6+ years of experience.\n All my dividend payments have been made on time and to the penny or better = reliable income. There has been no decrease in my dividends during the market dips in the past 6 years.\n Vanguard, Fidelity, Schwab, JPMorgan, Goldman Sacks, Blackrock, NEOS, PIMCO and other investment companies offer quality dividend index funds. Successful, long term dividend investing requires knowledge, experience and active portfolio management to adjust your holdings for market changes.\n Subreddit r/dividends has almost 900k like minded subscribers offering dividend investing knowledge, personal experience and stock/fund tips to help you get started. YouTube has lots of dividend investing authors. My favorite is Dividend Bull who covers the high yield, positive total return dividend market very well with his library of beginner to experienced dividend investor videos.\n Hope this income generation information helps you get to the life you want.\n Good luck!" }, { "id": "t1_omx42w7", "author": "/u/Economy_Fan_8520", "updated": "2026-05-20T19:08:29+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omx42w7/", "content": "Take a year off and see how you feel 🤷" }, { "id": "t1_omx5dgx", "author": "/u/Difficult_Relative33", "updated": "2026-05-20T19:14:28+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omx5dgx/", "content": "Humble brag." }, { "id": "t1_omx5nt4", "author": "/u/Fearce2", "updated": "2026-05-20T19:15:48+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omx5nt4/", "content": "As someone your age I get the appeal and the want to tell these clients to fuck off. I do every day.\n The part I struggle with is the retiring early to do the things you already do on a nightly/weekly basis. I would have a difficult time being able to justify why I couldn't do 5 more years and make the 1.3 closer to 2.2 and the house will probably go up as well. Then you're absolutely done for life.\n I feel most people retire early for a purpose that cannot be achieved while working; yours is not that.\n My opinion." }, { "id": "t1_omx6j4m", "author": "/u/funkyescargot", "updated": "2026-05-20T19:19:53+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omx6j4m/", "content": "Same NW but with 3 kids, been coastFIREd since 2021." }, { "id": "t1_omx777f", "author": "/u/someguy984", "updated": "2026-05-20T19:23:01+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omx777f/", "content": "Leanfires applaud you." }, { "id": "t1_omx8qib", "author": "/u/Ok_Prune_1731", "updated": "2026-05-20T19:30:20+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omx8qib/", "content": "Go ahead and give me your job il take over" }, { "id": "t1_omxb1wy", "author": "/u/Tercel9", "updated": "2026-05-20T19:41:17+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omxb1wy/", "content": "Yea you should honestly.\n In 9 months, you might decide you want to do different work. But the pressure will be off you" }, { "id": "t1_omxb50n", "author": "/u/cabbageknight360", "updated": "2026-05-20T19:41:41+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omxb50n/", "content": "You good sir" }, { "id": "t1_omxcgby", "author": "/u/shlonki", "updated": "2026-05-20T19:47:47+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omxcgby/", "content": "You’re probably good (especially with the house paid off) but I’d still do 2 frugal fucking years before sending. You’re still young af and those years would add some serious cushioning. Best of luck bro" }, { "id": "t1_omxd1eb", "author": "/u/Optionsmfd", "updated": "2026-05-20T19:50:28+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omxd1eb/", "content": "Find a part time job you like\n Or start a cheap small business\n You’ll be bored in 6 months doing nothing" }, { "id": "t1_omxdbk4", "author": "/u/Sweaty_Marzipan4274", "updated": "2026-05-20T19:51:46+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omxdbk4/", "content": "I went with FAR less 😆" }, { "id": "t1_omxdjgm", "author": "/u/JC_Hysteria", "updated": "2026-05-20T19:52:46+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omxdjgm/", "content": "Key thing is to maintain all of your money-making connections, as well…\n Assume that you’ll be one of the majority of people who try to come back in some way- whether it’s consulting, setting up your own shop, or just trying to get involved somewhere where you’re good.\n Most people don’t stay retired. And they don’t stop wanting more unless they planted all the right seeds." }, { "id": "t1_omxdy57", "author": "/u/Timely-Designer-2372", "updated": "2026-05-20T19:54:37+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omxdy57/", "content": "35, 1.3m net worth, 25k annual spend: Safest way: 30 years us treasury, 5.1% (66k minus tax). Take your 25k and invest the rest to protect against inflation\n But tbh: I wouldn't live with 25k. You made a lot of money so far. Keep going until 40 and retire with 2m investments. Then you'll live great until the end" }, { "id": "t1_omxe7po", "author": "/u/preppindad06", "updated": "2026-05-20T19:55:51+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omxe7po/", "content": "You clearly want to! No harm is trying it! Especially with a healthy investment portfolio and low annual spend. Send it." }, { "id": "t1_omxec6s", "author": "/u/12dogs4me", "updated": "2026-05-20T19:56:25+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omxec6s/", "content": "Was going to say no until you mentioned pets, parents and gardening." }, { "id": "t1_omxeetn", "author": "/u/RareFaithlessness625", "updated": "2026-05-20T19:56:45+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omxeetn/", "content": "Why don’t you spend 1.3m on 30 year treasuries?\n You get interest of 5.75%…\n That’s like 75k a year and you don’t eat in the principal (of course reinvest a bit, time value of money etc)\n Not sure how you got to 25k average spend" }, { "id": "t1_omxemik", "author": "/u/OkWall539", "updated": "2026-05-20T19:57:45+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omxemik/", "content": "$25K average spend per year! where on the earth you live? definitely not in US." }, { "id": "t1_omxfef7", "author": "/u/Troitbum22", "updated": "2026-05-20T20:01:19+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omxfef7/", "content": "Well done. We are not mizers and live in a HCOL area with multiple kids, I’m curious on the annual spend of $25k.\n We budget, but aren’t super frugal. Whats your rough breakdown of it?\n We’re looking to fire a bit early and our health care for the family will be more than $25k a year. Cheers and congrats!" }, { "id": "t1_omxfexl", "author": "/u/beached89", "updated": "2026-05-20T20:01:23+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omxfexl/", "content": "You just need a withdraw strategy and some luck. Research sequence of return risk. But if your spend is really $25k annually and you have 1.3 in liquid traditional investments like stocks, you are well below the safe withdrawl rate.\n I personally would look at researching guard rails strategy, live off the $25k/y spend, Convert the maximum 12% tax bracket annually to ROTH regardless of expected spend to maximize that low spend and reduce the risk of mandatory withdraw in old age. The extra conversions will also allow you to handle unexpected expenses like a sudden unplanned new car, health, or a splurge vacation." }, { "id": "t1_omxgn19", "author": "/u/Illustrious-Age7342", "updated": "2026-05-20T20:07:08+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omxgn19/", "content": "As long as enough of your assets are in liquid accounts and it’s not all in 401Ks then yeah, you can walk away. Congrats!\n Quick question though, is your house worth 600k? And how are you managing to maintain only 25k/year average spend when including things like home repair?\n I rent and don’t own, so I may be under all false impression or how expensive home maintenance is, but I would just double check the numbers first if I was you" }, { "id": "t1_omxi2u8", "author": "/u/DemandAffectionate49", "updated": "2026-05-20T20:13:55+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omxi2u8/", "content": "You can do it providing you don’t get married and have kids!" }, { "id": "t1_omxi3a3", "author": "/u/AustralopithecineHat", "updated": "2026-05-20T20:13:58+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omxi3a3/", "content": "love this. i can’t wait to be done either. good work and congrats." }, { "id": "t1_omxikwi", "author": "/u/TrueRedditMartyr", "updated": "2026-05-20T20:16:16+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omxikwi/", "content": "Get a different job. 35 is much too young to retire on this" }, { "id": "t1_omxlduv", "author": "/u/_Smashbrother_", "updated": "2026-05-20T20:29:14+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omxlduv/", "content": "You're not accounting for healthcare costs later in life.\n I would just find another job that is stress free and easy to do and wait until like 40-45 to retire." }, { "id": "t1_omxmux4", "author": "/u/TheSquirrelCuisine", "updated": "2026-05-20T20:36:27+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omxmux4/", "content": "why dont you go find a lower paying job that is closer to your passions. I am similar but 54. Ill be cashing out soon you got a few years left. If I was where I wanted to be I would probably be a large boat captain on Lake Erie. I already have my qualifications for a 100 ton masters license. That is what I will probably do IF (big IF) I work during retirement.. pilot the boat, honk the horn. Drink coffee etc. Sounds awesome. I dont know that your 1.3 in investment money is accessible is it? Mine is all pretax right now. Im waiting on trump to do something stupid like eliminate capital gains taxes or someshit for rich people." }, { "id": "t1_omxnxnj", "author": "/u/CountHoliday8311", "updated": "2026-05-20T20:41:54+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omxnxnj/", "content": "As long as you don't get marry and have kids. It will last you a life time" }, { "id": "t1_omxpfpx", "author": "/u/Legal_Possible_1323", "updated": "2026-05-20T20:49:45+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omxpfpx/", "content": "What kind of law do you do? Can you pivot to something not so soul sucking?\n I left the law years ago. Had no patience for the judges and the bureaucratic bs involved, and the clients weren't much fun when it came time to pay up (this was in an overseas jurisdiction, so a bit different to US system.) I ended up doing legal translation for 20 years till AI took my job." }, { "id": "t1_omxphqo", "author": "/u/the-thot-thickens420", "updated": "2026-05-20T20:50:02+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omxphqo/", "content": "Yes" }, { "id": "t1_omxpond", "author": "/u/mirageofstars", "updated": "2026-05-20T20:51:02+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omxpond/", "content": "Start walking bud.\n Just be prepared to have to spend more in the future if you end up getting some of those things you don’t have today." }, { "id": "t1_omxqogo", "author": "/u/SensitiveTax9432", "updated": "2026-05-20T20:56:19+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omxqogo/", "content": "Consider part time or contract work for the first few years? You should be safe enough as is but if there is some poor years in the market it might be nice to have a buffer." }, { "id": "t1_omxrh98", "author": "/u/Zealousideal_Back618", "updated": "2026-05-20T21:00:40+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omxrh98/", "content": "Good for you, man!" }, { "id": "t1_omxtaoy", "author": "/u/Moist_One_1337", "updated": "2026-05-20T21:10:56+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omxtaoy/", "content": "Get a wife and kids" }, { "id": "t1_omy4f6b", "author": "/u/Ok_Ninja7574", "updated": "2026-05-20T22:08:52+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omy4f6b/", "content": "Shit advice" }, { "id": "t1_omxtazn", "author": "/u/patelpranay97", "updated": "2026-05-20T21:10:59+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omxtazn/", "content": "Send it, why wait till new years?" }, { "id": "t1_omxtjsl", "author": "/u/Imlooloo", "updated": "2026-05-20T21:12:22+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omxtjsl/", "content": "That playing video game loser life shit gonna get old after a couple months. Figure out what you really want to do at the end of the day. Your life’s half over, your half time show is playing and everyone is asking you, coach what you got in store for the second half?" }, { "id": "t1_omxu53m", "author": "/u/Impressive-Bit-3733", "updated": "2026-05-20T21:15:43+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omxu53m/", "content": "I don’t get it. How do you walk away? I mean that’s your money invested. Do you take out a percentage of your profits ( upto 25k annually) and if so, wouldn’t it be 2mil/25k so 80 years you are free? What about travel or like medical or like house Renos.\n Apologies if it seems like a dumb question" }, { "id": "t1_omxu65o", "author": "/u/SizzlingTwizzler", "updated": "2026-05-20T21:15:53+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omxu65o/", "content": "Mathematically, you are probably sound. But I have some concerns if I were you. $25k/year is very small. 1) make sure that you double and triple checked that is is what you are actually spending, especially if you are needing to buy healthcare. 2) factor in extra costs for larger purchases that you will need to average out over time. A new roof, car, or furnace can easily double your annual spend. Make sure that you are accounting for that. 3) Are you sure you want to maintain this lifestyle for the rest of your life? That style may be fine for a lot of people now for a year or two, but what about in your 40s, 50s, or 60s? What goals do you have that you want to achieve by then? Most likely if you have a decent portfolio composition and the market is not absolutely terrible, then you will be able to increase your withdrawals by a lot over the coming decades. But if the markets are bad you might not.\n If you can safely answer those questions to your satisfaction, then great! But just wanted to out a bee in your bonnet about it." }, { "id": "t1_omxu6ef", "author": "/u/JinxyDog", "updated": "2026-05-20T21:15:56+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omxu6ef/", "content": "Yep, you've made it; you will appreciate the improved lifestyle." }, { "id": "t1_omxuqn7", "author": "/u/busterman19", "updated": "2026-05-20T21:19:09+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omxuqn7/", "content": "You’ve got enough to do it. Nice thing is you’re young enough you can always change your mind if you so choose…." }, { "id": "t1_omxv52a", "author": "/u/Nomijenn", "updated": "2026-05-20T21:21:20+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omxv52a/", "content": "Can you live on 3% of your net worth? Do you have a 12-month emergency fund for you and for each property. Recession coming, expect high vacancies. Are you maxing out retirement accounts and using LLC’s to protect your assets?" }, { "id": "t1_omxvck7", "author": "/u/jonesjb", "updated": "2026-05-20T21:22:25+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omxvck7/", "content": "Congrats!" }, { "id": "t1_omxvurv", "author": "/u/No_Transportation590", "updated": "2026-05-20T21:24:58+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omxvurv/", "content": "Yes the key is no wife and no kids" }, { "id": "t1_omxwbkg", "author": "/u/Front_Knowledge_4383", "updated": "2026-05-20T21:27:17+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omxwbkg/", "content": "with 25k spend you're at about 1.9% withdrawal rate on your investments alone. mathematically you're golden. but the burnout sounds intense - maybe try a sabbatical first? going from high stress to full hermit mode can be jarring. either way your numbers work." }, { "id": "t1_omxxdxv", "author": "/u/Witty-Drama-3187", "updated": "2026-05-20T21:32:36+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omxxdxv/", "content": "If your data is accurate, then 100% yes.\n Having the house paid off is huge. Make sure you are accounting for future expenses like health care or the odd big ticket item (new car, etc). But otherwise, yes, you can be done.\n You are also young enough that if you need to find a way to earn some income in 10 years, you can." }, { "id": "t1_omxzjvo", "author": "/u/CyberbianDude", "updated": "2026-05-20T21:43:33+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omxzjvo/", "content": "Need to know your secret on $25K average annual spend. I am at least twice that!!!" }, { "id": "t1_omxzvs1", "author": "/u/thummin", "updated": "2026-05-20T21:45:14+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omxzvs1/", "content": "$25k a year isn’t freedom bro. That’s a prison of your own making. I’ve “retired” for a year twice in my career. First time I traveled the world. Lots of great memories but it gets exhausting. Sounds like that’s not what you want to do anyway. Second time I chilled and played all the video games I had wanted to try over the years. That gets boring too. Take some time off. Spend $50k for a year. See how you like it. I think you’ll realize what you’re missing in life is purpose not freedom." }, { "id": "t1_omy03oe", "author": "/u/Other_Breakfast7505", "updated": "2026-05-20T21:46:20+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omy03oe/", "content": "If that is your lifestyle, that is great, you do you! I just want to say that playing video games is great, but if you're going to do it for years to come, you should probably look into ways to stay in shape, just so you don't accumulate any bad chronic deceases." }, { "id": "t1_omy0e6r", "author": "/u/Passionofthegrape", "updated": "2026-05-20T21:47:49+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omy0e6r/", "content": "I would say, hang in there till Xmas then start your new life in 2027.\n You can stop giving fucks now though.\n Caution, you absolutely cannot afford a relationship or kids. If you do either of those things, no more fire." }, { "id": "t1_omy0e95", "author": "/u/Expert_Yam_8210", "updated": "2026-05-20T21:47:50+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omy0e95/", "content": "Kinda burying the lede. Even with a wife this would be an easy choice." }, { "id": "t1_omy0jrd", "author": "/u/RealityCheck831", "updated": "2026-05-20T21:48:37+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omy0jrd/", "content": "IMO, that's a little light for 'forever', but your profile is similar to what mine was.\n My plan as a teen: "Get a million dollars, put it in the bank at 6%, live happily ever after." At 35, I was close. I spend very little (also about $25K), and am comfortable with that.\n Things change. Got married, (safe) interest rates dropped, health care insurance costs more than the mortgage did.\n Main thing I would look at is safe vs. risky investment. If you're going to be in the market, make sure you have a few years worth in SGOV or similar so if the market tanks, you don't have to liquidate at the bottom.\n Good luck!" }, { "id": "t1_omy10pi", "author": "/u/BxRad_", "updated": "2026-05-20T21:51:02+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omy10pi/", "content": "Find something to work on you enjoy, and or work the amount you want to work.\n I wouldn't want to quit completely, like after sleeping and getting drunk for a week you gotta find some to do still" }, { "id": "t1_omy18zz", "author": "/u/Soggy-Constant5932", "updated": "2026-05-20T21:52:13+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omy18zz/", "content": "I don’t know you and I’m so happy for you!!" }, { "id": "t1_omy1jbc", "author": "/u/alstonm22", "updated": "2026-05-20T21:53:41+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omy1jbc/", "content": "Not even in West Virginia." }, { "id": "t1_omy1ue8", "author": "/u/mrbobertimus", "updated": "2026-05-20T21:55:17+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omy1ue8/", "content": "25k annual spend?! Dang you have it all figured out man" }, { "id": "t1_omy2wot", "author": "/u/-Vagabond", "updated": "2026-05-20T22:00:49+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omy2wot/", "content": "25k spend is regarded, doubt it stays that low over time. Also, why go through all the trouble to commit to a life of poverty? Just work a few more years and you'll be set.\n As it is now, you will not be able to comfortably absorb volatility in the market or unexpected expenses. I just spend 37k on new windows and paint for a small home, 4.5k on a water heater, and had a sewer line break that will cost another 8-10k. Those types of expenses will continue to increase.\n Just a few more years of growth will put you over $2M and you'll be in a much more comfortable position to sustain for 50-60 years. Man up." }, { "id": "t1_omy2xn8", "author": "/u/AppointmentWhich8128", "updated": "2026-05-20T22:00:58+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omy2xn8/", "content": "is this ragebait or do you live under a rock? how is 25k spend realistic?" }, { "id": "t1_omy3qab", "author": "/u/NoAd3734", "updated": "2026-05-20T22:05:12+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omy3qab/", "content": "I hate to be that guy, but I think you should try to make it to 40. That way you allow another 5 years of compound growth while still earning an income & a little more money in your investments. Like others said, you gotta think about potential healthcare expenses.\n Worst case, you could just take a mindless 4 days a week job or something until then. Idk, if you had $5 million, I'd say go for it 100%. But only $1.3 at 35 seems a little too premature & you probably need another million or so (accounting for inflation/spending power as well)" }, { "id": "t1_omy3vdd", "author": "/u/DependentTaste283", "updated": "2026-05-20T22:05:57+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omy3vdd/", "content": "If portfolio value > [(forecasted annual expenses - annual non-portfolio income such as pensions, social security) / .04], then you're good. Assuming zero non-portfolio income since you didn't mention any, $625K would be enough. Your portfolio supports an annual spend of $64k." }, { "id": "t1_omy4bd7", "author": "/u/LunaSails007", "updated": "2026-05-20T22:08:19+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omy4bd7/", "content": "walk away like yesterday.\n all people in this sub suffer feom one more year syndrome, don’t be like them.\n you don’t want to die and be the richest person at the cemetary, don’t you?" }, { "id": "t1_omy4je6", "author": "/u/253-build", "updated": "2026-05-20T22:09:30+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omy4je6/", "content": "Yeah, you're there. Figure out your details (health insurance & spendable income stream) so you can exit." }, { "id": "t1_omy52ul", "author": "/u/Ok_Ninja7574", "updated": "2026-05-20T22:12:23+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omy52ul/", "content": "I would 100% walk away. Life is too short to be so miserable and you are in a position where you can walk away from the thing that makes you miserable and still have the life you want. It's a no brainer. And if at any point you need to find a new income stream or get bored, there are loads of options out there.\n Walk. Away. Be. Happy." }, { "id": "t1_omy5xw2", "author": "/u/Comfortable-Half-550", "updated": "2026-05-20T22:17:04+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omy5xw2/", "content": "1.9m may seem like a good amount if you're single, no kids & your house is paid off.\n But you're 35. You have a lot of years left to live, and unfortunately things are only getting more and more expensive very quickly. 1.3 in investments nets you roughly 50k per year. That may seem fine if you live in a relatively inexpensive area and are willing to be a bit frugal, but there are glaring issues.\n Health insurance is one huge one. Health insurance is abysmally expensive and we need it. Inflation is another. 50k per year will only feel less and less. You may not want a spouse nor kids now, but life changes very quickly sometimes. What if you wake up in 5 years and want all of that? There's a lot to take into account with a decision this big.\n Personally, if I was in your place I would stick it out for another 10 or so years. It may suck, but you'll likely have double your money by then, if not more if you invest smartly over the years. 45 with multiple millions that ensure you can live wherever you want with whatever expenses you want and not have to worry too much about things like inflation (for the most part) sounds infinitely better to me. It's still plenty young." }, { "id": "t1_omy63gf", "author": "/u/VampireEmpire__", "updated": "2026-05-20T22:17:56+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omy63gf/", "content": "Damn you’re super frugal." }, { "id": "t1_omy65ex", "author": "/u/haveagoyamug2", "updated": "2026-05-20T22:18:14+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omy65ex/", "content": "You could live that lifestyle on half of what you have......" }, { "id": "t1_omy6sk5", "author": "/u/whydoihavetojoin", "updated": "2026-05-20T22:21:44+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omy6sk5/", "content": "Are you Social Security eligible- enough work history. If yes, then work till that’s covered." }, { "id": "t1_omy6ver", "author": "/u/VideoLeoj", "updated": "2026-05-20T22:22:10+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omy6ver/", "content": "With the right plan you can.\n I’m jealous." }, { "id": "t1_omy79hi", "author": "/u/HauntedHouseMusic", "updated": "2026-05-20T22:24:19+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omy79hi/", "content": "Honestly would do it at 2m as you are pretty close to" }, { "id": "t1_omy7d68", "author": "/u/normificator", "updated": "2026-05-20T22:24:54+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omy7d68/", "content": "You’re there. I’ve done it, it’s a good life. The only regret is not doing it sooner." }, { "id": "t1_omy7gpw", "author": "/u/South_Paramedic8618", "updated": "2026-05-20T22:25:27+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omy7gpw/", "content": "I'm not sure the 25k annual spend is correct takes a lot to live these days even with everything paid off" }, { "id": "t1_omy7h35", "author": "/u/theburmeseguy", "updated": "2026-05-20T22:25:30+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omy7h35/", "content": "When u decide to marry, have a pre nap." }, { "id": "t1_omy97qm", "author": "/u/Due-Investment-5574", "updated": "2026-05-20T22:35:14+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omy97qm/", "content": "know how to multiply without working" }, { "id": "t1_omya6e5", "author": "/u/Full-Concentrate-867", "updated": "2026-05-20T22:40:39+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omya6e5/", "content": "Yeah, go and do it. If you have a job you hate that much, it won't be good for your health to keep doing it. Wish I could do the same" }, { "id": "t1_omyab8t", "author": "/u/RusticKayak207", "updated": "2026-05-20T22:41:25+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omyab8t/", "content": "Maybe you should build a life. Playing video games is not one." }, { "id": "t1_omyaqrb", "author": "/u/Still_Rise9618", "updated": "2026-05-20T22:43:56+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omyaqrb/", "content": "25k might be hard to do with inflation. You need to pay for health insurance." }, { "id": "t1_omyavvz", "author": "/u/iggyazalea12", "updated": "2026-05-20T22:44:47+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omyavvz/", "content": "Sure" }, { "id": "t1_omybc2c", "author": "/u/Tookerjobz", "updated": "2026-05-20T22:47:29+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omybc2c/", "content": "Move to Thailand or Bali." }, { "id": "t1_omyc3ka", "author": "/u/lintyui", "updated": "2026-05-20T22:52:08+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omyc3ka/", "content": "I’d definitely do it if I were you" }, { "id": "t1_omyd5uj", "author": "/u/Neakhanie", "updated": "2026-05-20T22:58:39+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omyd5uj/", "content": "Get a vasectomy first." }, { "id": "t1_omyd9yr", "author": "/u/kranged1", "updated": "2026-05-20T22:59:22+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omyd9yr/", "content": "It’s not enough" }, { "id": "t1_omydghr", "author": "/u/Low-Air-182", "updated": "2026-05-20T23:00:27+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omydghr/", "content": "Move to a foreign country that has good but affordable health. That's what I did. $2,000/year for good insurance in private modern hospital if needed." }, { "id": "t1_omyduh9", "author": "/u/MrPelham", "updated": "2026-05-20T23:02:43+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omyduh9/", "content": "Sure, but one day you're going to spend more than 25K a year." }, { "id": "t1_omye6kp", "author": "/u/Ancient-Algae-3905", "updated": "2026-05-20T23:04:38+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omye6kp/", "content": "Are you planning on never marrying or having kids" }, { "id": "t1_omyejjy", "author": "/u/Patriots4life22", "updated": "2026-05-20T23:06:39+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omyejjy/", "content": "You can always go back. YOLO that shit" }, { "id": "t1_omyend7", "author": "/u/KoalaNo8058", "updated": "2026-05-20T23:07:15+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omyend7/", "content": "Yass!" }, { "id": "t1_omyeuax", "author": "/u/Dumbgirl27", "updated": "2026-05-20T23:08:21+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omyeuax/", "content": "Are you going to be alone forever? If so, I think you are close. If not, then I would continue to save because the person you end up marrying might be broke." }, { "id": "t1_omyg3en", "author": "/u/better360", "updated": "2026-05-20T23:15:27+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omyg3en/", "content": "Cook, gardening, video games. Oh man, this sounds amazing 🤩" }, { "id": "t1_omyg4of", "author": "/u/PeoplesMan24", "updated": "2026-05-20T23:15:40+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omyg4of/", "content": "Are people not counting in inflation over 20-30-40 years when doing this math? What is 1990s 1000 bucks equivalent of todays money? 2-3 grand?" }, { "id": "t1_omygr3x", "author": "/u/TomatoWitty4170", "updated": "2026-05-20T23:19:13+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omygr3x/", "content": "Yes and also DM me If u need a friend" }, { "id": "t1_omygyq7", "author": "/u/USAhotdogteam", "updated": "2026-05-20T23:20:26+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omygyq7/", "content": "You’ll be bored quickly if you call it quits now, I give it 1, maybe 2 years and you’ll be itching to do something productive again.\n Sit around playing brain rot games for long and you’ll surely reap the health consequences sooner than later.\n Medical care for the next 50 years won’t be cheap regardless.\n Send it." }, { "id": "t1_omyh26m", "author": "/u/Rude_Mirror7441", "updated": "2026-05-20T23:20:59+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omyh26m/", "content": "I’m secretly jelly of you OP. Congrats and GFY soon.\n I’m 33 with $1.5M but I’m married with 4 little kiddos and a SAHM so I’ll most likely be working until I’m 55 😭\n If I was in your shoes I would have already retired based on a $25k yearly spend." }, { "id": "t1_omyhx8a", "author": "/u/FlowerHot86", "updated": "2026-05-20T23:25:56+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tippj7/35_19m_net_worth_13_in_investments_house_paid_off/omyhx8a/", "content": "Sounds like the best life ever. I would say yes. One day you may want to do a little job you like to make some living cash so there is that. And social security if you worked long enough.\n Oh yea and don’t forget about buying health insurance. That might hurt your plan." } ] }, { "source": "r/Fire top month", "id": "t3_1t8kanx", "title": "Hit my FIRE number! Giving notice on Monday", "author": "/u/Funkycornelius2", "updated": "2026-05-09T20:22:44+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8kanx/hit_my_fire_number_giving_notice_on_monday/", "content": "Fortunately, I learned about FIRE back in the Mr. Money Mustache days working my first job out of college in 2010/2011. I've been investing as much as possible with the intention of early retirement (aka freedom) ever since, maxing out my 401k the past 16 years. I've never had a particularly high-paying job compared to many on here - started at $40k just out of undergrad and have never earned more than $180k. My initial FIRE # was $1.5M, revised to $2M in late 2021 (which is ~$2.44M in 2026 USD). Earlier this year I decided $2.5M in 2026 $ was my pull-the-trigger number. I barely squeaked past that at market close on Friday with $2.504M invested. Considering my expenses are ~$55k, and I've never spent more than $60k/yr, I feel quite confident in giving notice in my 1:1 on Monday morning.\n For reference, I'm late 30's male. Never received any inheritance (and will not). Grew up in a family that constantly struggled with money but have made great strides in overcoming scarcity mindset through budgeting and, in recent years, forced spending on myself.\n I've more or less followed a Bernstein/Bogleheads type portfolio with a bit more small/value tilt with a few aberrations.\n The lucky: I know market timing is dumb. As COVID was approaching, I was very tied to the news and feedback from those involved with supply chain on Reddit. I pulled a large share of my assets out of the market in February 2020. I was exceptionally lucky in that I went all in, back in the market on March 23rd, which happened to be just about the low point. This was the most significant impact on my invested net worth. I also made >$250k on VIX calls. This was the last time I spent more than $5k on options.\n The dumb: Again, market timing is dumb. In late March of 2025, I again felt unsafe about the market from Reddit feedback and my own personal thoughts and ended up pulling out ~15% of my invested assets (had been 100% equities). In this instance, I mistimed and felt like an idiot as the market shot back up. Fortunately, I went very heavy into some small value funds and broadened my international exposure that ended up outperforming the SP500 to partially make up for this mistake. This experience was a much needed reminder for me to stick with my personal investment policy - and not to deviate based on my stupid human thoughts of "what if this time is different!?"\n Anyway, I'm out!! Psyched to give my notice and dive deeper into my many hobbies and passion projects. My plan is to take ~3 months to really focus on sleep/health/exercise, and then go from there. I'm elated to bask in the freedom I've dreamt of these past 16 years!!\n submitted by /u/Funkycornelius2\n [link] [comments]", "contentHtml": "

Fortunately, I learned about FIRE back in the Mr. Money Mustache days working my first job out of college in 2010/2011. I've been investing as much as possible with the intention of early retirement (aka freedom) ever since, maxing out my 401k the past 16 years. I've never had a particularly high-paying job compared to many on here - started at $40k just out of undergrad and have never earned more than $180k. My initial FIRE # was $1.5M, revised to $2M in late 2021 (which is ~$2.44M in 2026 USD). Earlier this year I decided $2.5M in 2026 $ was my pull-the-trigger number. I barely squeaked past that at market close on Friday with $2.504M invested. Considering my expenses are ~$55k, and I've never spent more than $60k/yr, I feel quite confident in giving notice in my 1:1 on Monday morning.

For reference, I'm late 30's male. Never received any inheritance (and will not). Grew up in a family that constantly struggled with money but have made great strides in overcoming scarcity mindset through budgeting and, in recent years, forced spending on myself.

I've more or less followed a Bernstein/Bogleheads type portfolio with a bit more small/value tilt with a few aberrations.

The lucky: I know market timing is dumb. As COVID was approaching, I was very tied to the news and feedback from those involved with supply chain on Reddit. I pulled a large share of my assets out of the market in February 2020. I was exceptionally lucky in that I went all in, back in the market on March 23rd, which happened to be just about the low point. This was the most significant impact on my invested net worth. I also made >$250k on VIX calls. This was the last time I spent more than $5k on options.

The dumb: Again, market timing is dumb. In late March of 2025, I again felt unsafe about the market from Reddit feedback and my own personal thoughts and ended up pulling out ~15% of my invested assets (had been 100% equities). In this instance, I mistimed and felt like an idiot as the market shot back up. Fortunately, I went very heavy into some small value funds and broadened my international exposure that ended up outperforming the SP500 to partially make up for this mistake. This experience was a much needed reminder for me to stick with my personal investment policy - and not to deviate based on my stupid human thoughts of "what if this time is different!?"

Anyway, I'm out!! Psyched to give my notice and dive deeper into my many hobbies and passion projects. My plan is to take ~3 months to really focus on sleep/health/exercise, and then go from there. I'm elated to bask in the freedom I've dreamt of these past 16 years!!

submitted by /u/Funkycornelius2
[link] [comments]", "comments": [ { "id": "t1_okvrw2t", "author": "", "updated": "2026-05-09T20:31:11+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8kanx/hit_my_fire_number_giving_notice_on_monday/okvrw2t/", "content": "[deleted]" }, { "id": "t1_okw0830", "author": "/u/stentordoctor", "updated": "2026-05-09T21:17:03+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8kanx/hit_my_fire_number_giving_notice_on_monday/okw0830/", "content": "No joke, slept for 12+ hours for a few weeks straight" }, { "id": "t1_okxvj1i", "author": "/u/TenshiS", "updated": "2026-05-10T04:21:56+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8kanx/hit_my_fire_number_giving_notice_on_monday/okxvj1i/", "content": "Omg how did it feel?" }, { "id": "t1_okyyp83", "author": "/u/stentordoctor", "updated": "2026-05-10T10:07:07+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8kanx/hit_my_fire_number_giving_notice_on_monday/okyyp83/", "content": "Almost healing? Like my body was shedding years of stress. My stomach aches got better. My dysmenorrhea got significantly better although not gone. I also think I look younger? Idk People are really nice sometimes so I can't tell. I am finally seeing results at the gym, too. I think trying to lift when I used all of my willpower at work means that I don't go 100% at the gym." }, { "id": "t1_okyyl0h", "author": "/u/Coach_Carter_on_DVD", "updated": "2026-05-10T10:06:01+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8kanx/hit_my_fire_number_giving_notice_on_monday/okyyl0h/", "content": "He’s lying, nobody is that lucky." }, { "id": "t1_ol6cru6", "author": "/u/stentordoctor", "updated": "2026-05-11T13:30:24+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8kanx/hit_my_fire_number_giving_notice_on_monday/ol6cru6/", "content": "First of all, "she." And second of all, my only luck was being born in the states, the other half was all work." }, { "id": "t1_ol6i2fs", "author": "/u/Coach_Carter_on_DVD", "updated": "2026-05-11T13:56:49+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8kanx/hit_my_fire_number_giving_notice_on_monday/ol6i2fs/", "content": "Amazing how many people can’t take a joke." }, { "id": "t1_ol76p7k", "author": "/u/stentordoctor", "updated": "2026-05-11T15:50:18+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8kanx/hit_my_fire_number_giving_notice_on_monday/ol76p7k/", "content": "Then be funnier" }, { "id": "t1_ola0u33", "author": "/u/c-r-collins", "updated": "2026-05-12T00:01:30+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8kanx/hit_my_fire_number_giving_notice_on_monday/ola0u33/", "content": "Months!" }, { "id": "t1_olbsxy6", "author": "/u/stentordoctor", "updated": "2026-05-12T07:10:34+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8kanx/hit_my_fire_number_giving_notice_on_monday/olbsxy6/", "content": "😅 almost 2 months" }, { "id": "t1_okwx1gl", "author": "/u/Durian_Doll", "updated": "2026-05-10T00:34:06+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8kanx/hit_my_fire_number_giving_notice_on_monday/okwx1gl/", "content": "the sleep part hit me hard - im 34 and still dreamin about sleepin past 6am without an alarm" }, { "id": "t1_okxwwff", "author": "/u/DrJohnFZoidberg", "updated": "2026-05-10T04:32:15+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8kanx/hit_my_fire_number_giving_notice_on_monday/okxwwff/", "content": "I'm 49 and I dream about sleeping for 6 hours, straight, in one night" }, { "id": "t1_olt94g0", "author": "/u/No-Steak-857", "updated": "2026-05-14T18:49:37+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8kanx/hit_my_fire_number_giving_notice_on_monday/olt94g0/", "content": "Congratulations for the little one" }, { "id": "t1_onbovtn", "author": "/u/shirley_241", "updated": "2026-05-22T21:50:59+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8kanx/hit_my_fire_number_giving_notice_on_monday/onbovtn/", "content": "I didn't expect to still dream a lot at 49. I'm 38 and rarely dream. If I don't get up at night, I usually sleep until around 6:30 in the morning" }, { "id": "t1_oletw1e", "author": "/u/ChutneyWhatney", "updated": "2026-05-12T17:39:56+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8kanx/hit_my_fire_number_giving_notice_on_monday/oletw1e/", "content": "Trust me - it's great to wake up naturally and well rested." }, { "id": "t1_okxul8i", "author": "/u/AngryLarge34", "updated": "2026-05-10T04:14:57+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8kanx/hit_my_fire_number_giving_notice_on_monday/okxul8i/", "content": "Sleep as much as possible because it’s harder to sleep as you age!" }, { "id": "t1_ol24p2h", "author": "/u/Winstonoil", "updated": "2026-05-10T20:24:03+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8kanx/hit_my_fire_number_giving_notice_on_monday/ol24p2h/", "content": "I’m pushing 70, and I have no problem sleeping 8 to 10 hours a day . Normal is a setting on the dryer." }, { "id": "t1_old3tev", "author": "/u/Strazdas1", "updated": "2026-05-12T12:57:22+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8kanx/hit_my_fire_number_giving_notice_on_monday/old3tev/", "content": "Sleeping more than 10 hours a day is actually unhealthy. Unfortunately most people go the other unhealthy route and sleep less than 7 hours." }, { "id": "t1_okvrch4", "author": "/u/arfcom", "updated": "2026-05-09T20:28:13+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8kanx/hit_my_fire_number_giving_notice_on_monday/okvrch4/", "content": "Heck yeah. Glad to see someone actually pull the trigger as soon as their number is hit. 3 months of sleep/health/exercise sounds like the perfect start." }, { "id": "t1_okvwgpk", "author": "/u/Funkycornelius2", "updated": "2026-05-09T20:56:16+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8kanx/hit_my_fire_number_giving_notice_on_monday/okvwgpk/", "content": "Thanks! I'd been obsessively reading FIRE posts the past few months as I've been getting closer. All the 'I hit my number but feel nothing and want to keep working' sort of freaked me out. I had already passed and revised my number once and decided $2.5 was my GTFO number. I'm mostly a lurker but figured I'd share since the actually FIREing posts have been my drug of choice these past few months haha." }, { "id": "t1_okwkkdr", "author": "/u/mortgagepants", "updated": "2026-05-09T23:16:24+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8kanx/hit_my_fire_number_giving_notice_on_monday/okwkkdr/", "content": "you can always freelance or consult 10 hours per week if you feel like you need it.\n i substitute teach 2-3 days per week. i walk from my house 9:20, come back and walk my dog on my lunch, finish at 2:30.\n not sure i will do it next year, it has been an interesting experience though." }, { "id": "t1_okxvpxm", "author": "/u/TenshiS", "updated": "2026-05-10T04:23:21+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8kanx/hit_my_fire_number_giving_notice_on_monday/okxvpxm/", "content": "Do you have to prepare much?" }, { "id": "t1_okzn0s9", "author": "/u/mortgagepants", "updated": "2026-05-10T13:04:03+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8kanx/hit_my_fire_number_giving_notice_on_monday/okzn0s9/", "content": "no, the teacher who is absent usually prepares everything." }, { "id": "t1_okw4rih", "author": "/u/whereistheicecream", "updated": "2026-05-09T21:42:22+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8kanx/hit_my_fire_number_giving_notice_on_monday/okw4rih/", "content": "Did you plan on spending more than your usual anual spend in retirement?\n My husband and I are planning to need more since we'd have more time for hobbies and travel\n Congrats on hitting your milestone!" }, { "id": "t1_okwh9aq", "author": "/u/KG-Fan", "updated": "2026-05-09T22:56:08+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8kanx/hit_my_fire_number_giving_notice_on_monday/okwh9aq/", "content": "A+, very relatable\n But very happy for you that you did it. You planned for it. You accomplished it. Well deserved, congratulations on being disciplined." }, { "id": "t1_okwt666", "author": "/u/dynamo_hub", "updated": "2026-05-10T00:09:32+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8kanx/hit_my_fire_number_giving_notice_on_monday/okwt666/", "content": "I have an inflation adjusted target, and it's just painful to have long ago passed the number i set in 2018, but it's still a few years away" }, { "id": "t1_okwvw29", "author": "/u/arfcom", "updated": "2026-05-10T00:26:41+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8kanx/hit_my_fire_number_giving_notice_on_monday/okwvw29/", "content": "Same. But my biggest inflation is lifestyle. Few more years." }, { "id": "t1_ol9vnmk", "author": "/u/db11242", "updated": "2026-05-11T23:31:40+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8kanx/hit_my_fire_number_giving_notice_on_monday/ol9vnmk/", "content": "After moving the goalpost twice though...." }, { "id": "t1_ol9wo91", "author": "/u/arfcom", "updated": "2026-05-11T23:37:29+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8kanx/hit_my_fire_number_giving_notice_on_monday/ol9wo91/", "content": "Only twice! Ha." }, { "id": "t1_okvso6j", "author": "/u/Successful-Try-8506", "updated": "2026-05-09T20:35:27+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8kanx/hit_my_fire_number_giving_notice_on_monday/okvso6j/", "content": "Congratulations! As someone who has lived your future life for a long time, here's some advice:\n It's okay to sleep in, but make sure you get out of your house every day.\n Get a library card and make sure you use it.\n Develop a new passion. (I took up long distance hiking and gardening.)\n Stay away from alcohol/drugs and excessive gaming.\n Enjoy life! You've earned it." }, { "id": "t1_okvx220", "author": "/u/Funkycornelius2", "updated": "2026-05-09T20:59:33+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8kanx/hit_my_fire_number_giving_notice_on_monday/okvx220/", "content": "Thanks! Great advice. I have an insanely active dog (malinois) who will not let me stay indoors. We hike a LOT. I do have a library card which I use. I have an extensive list of hobbies which I'm beyond excited to be able to spend more time with!" }, { "id": "t1_okvydzh", "author": "/u/throwaway_macgregor", "updated": "2026-05-09T21:06:56+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8kanx/hit_my_fire_number_giving_notice_on_monday/okvydzh/", "content": "If you don’t have the Libby app (connects to your library card) get that too! It’s my most-used app, despite goofing off on Reddit. And, congrats!!!" }, { "id": "t1_okw0u0a", "author": "/u/Funkycornelius2", "updated": "2026-05-09T21:20:27+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8kanx/hit_my_fire_number_giving_notice_on_monday/okw0u0a/", "content": "I'm unaware of Libby. Thank you for the rec!" }, { "id": "t1_okw94gc", "author": "/u/outdoorsyDVM", "updated": "2026-05-09T22:07:19+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8kanx/hit_my_fire_number_giving_notice_on_monday/okw94gc/", "content": "Check out Hoopla too. Oh and GFY! Congratulations!" }, { "id": "t1_okw92p7", "author": "/u/outdoorsyDVM", "updated": "2026-05-09T22:07:02+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8kanx/hit_my_fire_number_giving_notice_on_monday/okw92p7/", "content": "Love Libby and Hoopla apps through the library. Hoopla is great for audiobooks." }, { "id": "t1_okvzk5y", "author": "/u/Useful_Mode787", "updated": "2026-05-09T21:13:22+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8kanx/hit_my_fire_number_giving_notice_on_monday/okvzk5y/", "content": "You are set then! Congratulations.\n (I’m handing in my notice on Monday; renewed my library card today while out on my daily run)." }, { "id": "t1_okyfefz", "author": "/u/Funkycornelius2", "updated": "2026-05-10T07:07:10+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8kanx/hit_my_fire_number_giving_notice_on_monday/okyfefz/", "content": "Congrats to you as well! Monday is going to be an exciting day for both of us!" }, { "id": "t1_okw0x1t", "author": "/u/volleydude32", "updated": "2026-05-09T21:20:54+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8kanx/hit_my_fire_number_giving_notice_on_monday/okw0x1t/", "content": "I prefer fur missile instead of saying ‘active’." }, { "id": "t1_okvyhk2", "author": "/u/Crazy-Car948", "updated": "2026-05-09T21:07:29+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8kanx/hit_my_fire_number_giving_notice_on_monday/okvyhk2/", "content": "Pls share some of them brother" }, { "id": "t1_okw02fr", "author": "/u/Funkycornelius2", "updated": "2026-05-09T21:16:10+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8kanx/hit_my_fire_number_giving_notice_on_monday/okw02fr/", "content": "Of hobbies? I hike more days than not, ski, road and mountain bike, play many instruments and sing, enjoy volunteering with animal rescues and local cleanups, dabble in art, really love having some sort of "learning project", and enjoy just kicking back with a book or movie. I'd really like to start taking some random classes and hopefully stumble on some new hobbies as well." }, { "id": "t1_okw1jf5", "author": "/u/Crazy-Car948", "updated": "2026-05-09T21:24:21+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8kanx/hit_my_fire_number_giving_notice_on_monday/okw1jf5/", "content": "Good stuff brother. Enjoy life" }, { "id": "t1_okw2foe", "author": "/u/Funkycornelius2", "updated": "2026-05-09T21:29:14+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8kanx/hit_my_fire_number_giving_notice_on_monday/okw2foe/", "content": "Thank you!" }, { "id": "t1_okwjf2y", "author": "/u/HistoricalStatus5577", "updated": "2026-05-09T23:09:24+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8kanx/hit_my_fire_number_giving_notice_on_monday/okwjf2y/", "content": "Your Mal alone is a hobby, good for you, that’s not a pup for a leisurely life (from a Doberman + Vizsla household). Congrats to you both!" }, { "id": "t1_okvuwmd", "author": "/u/Crazy-Car948", "updated": "2026-05-09T20:47:39+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8kanx/hit_my_fire_number_giving_notice_on_monday/okvuwmd/", "content": "Fellow Kafka enjoyer" }, { "id": "t1_okw2yme", "author": "/u/Interesting_Fan_5019", "updated": "2026-05-09T21:32:10+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8kanx/hit_my_fire_number_giving_notice_on_monday/okw2yme/", "content": "I love the get a library card comment. Former librarian here." }, { "id": "t1_okxd6vs", "author": "/u/tyen0", "updated": "2026-05-10T02:16:33+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8kanx/hit_my_fire_number_giving_notice_on_monday/okxd6vs/", "content": "Stay away from alcohol/drugs and excessive gaming.\n hrm. I was thinking FIRE would mean more gaming time... :)" }, { "id": "t1_okxhirt", "author": "/u/Zhoobka", "updated": "2026-05-10T02:44:34+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8kanx/hit_my_fire_number_giving_notice_on_monday/okxhirt/", "content": "Yeah.... I have a problem lol" }, { "id": "t1_okwigfq", "author": "/u/KG-Fan", "updated": "2026-05-09T23:03:27+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8kanx/hit_my_fire_number_giving_notice_on_monday/okwigfq/", "content": "How did you explore your hobbies? I'm afraid I'll devolve into meaningless life if I ever hit my number" }, { "id": "t1_okzpvqf", "author": "/u/thenamelessjohn", "updated": "2026-05-10T13:20:21+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8kanx/hit_my_fire_number_giving_notice_on_monday/okzpvqf/", "content": "why not gaming?" }, { "id": "t1_ol5w4w3", "author": "/u/DShinobiPirate", "updated": "2026-05-11T11:57:06+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8kanx/hit_my_fire_number_giving_notice_on_monday/ol5w4w3/", "content": "Out of curiosity, sounds like you're speaking from experience there -- what happened with gaming and having no out door hobbies? This is good advice in general but just curious how it looked for someone firsthand who seemed to have made changes from their initial routines." }, { "id": "t1_okvx0wr", "author": "/u/Logan_510", "updated": "2026-05-09T20:59:23+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8kanx/hit_my_fire_number_giving_notice_on_monday/okvx0wr/", "content": "A library card? If he wants to see fossils he can go to a museum." }, { "id": "t1_okvyexa", "author": "/u/anthropomorphicdave", "updated": "2026-05-09T21:07:05+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8kanx/hit_my_fire_number_giving_notice_on_monday/okvyexa/", "content": "You do know that you can actually read paper and that doesn’t make you weird (or ancient)… yes? Also you can do what I (and many others do) put the library card number into 2 free apps, Libby and Hoopla. It gives you access to free copies of digital content from the library." }, { "id": "t1_okvz36g", "author": "/u/Logan_510", "updated": "2026-05-09T21:10:49+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8kanx/hit_my_fire_number_giving_notice_on_monday/okvz36g/", "content": "Maybe the op should invest in a buggy whip manufacturer as well?" }, { "id": "t1_okvqxld", "author": "/u/PorgeMoshington", "updated": "2026-05-09T20:25:58+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8kanx/hit_my_fire_number_giving_notice_on_monday/okvqxld/", "content": "GFY!" }, { "id": "t1_okvr440", "author": "/u/K_A_irony", "updated": "2026-05-09T20:26:58+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8kanx/hit_my_fire_number_giving_notice_on_monday/okvr440/", "content": "Congrats and GFY!" }, { "id": "t1_okvryge", "author": "/u/SnazzyStooge", "updated": "2026-05-09T20:31:32+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8kanx/hit_my_fire_number_giving_notice_on_monday/okvryge/", "content": "Congrats on your number! I just hit my coast number, putting in my two-week notice this week for a much less stressful job.\n Here’s to freedom, and the time to live life the way it’s meant to be. 🥂" }, { "id": "t1_okw0avx", "author": "/u/Funkycornelius2", "updated": "2026-05-09T21:17:29+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8kanx/hit_my_fire_number_giving_notice_on_monday/okw0avx/", "content": "Thank you! Congrats to you as well!! Very well said, time to live the way it's meant to be. Cheers!" }, { "id": "t1_okw5osr", "author": "/u/Charming_Thought_173", "updated": "2026-05-09T21:47:38+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8kanx/hit_my_fire_number_giving_notice_on_monday/okw5osr/", "content": "What coast job are you moving too?" }, { "id": "t1_okwueb1", "author": "/u/SnazzyStooge", "updated": "2026-05-10T00:17:16+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8kanx/hit_my_fire_number_giving_notice_on_monday/okwueb1/", "content": "Math teacher. :)" }, { "id": "t1_okw0m90", "author": "/u/Imbrokeandiveatruck", "updated": "2026-05-09T21:19:15+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8kanx/hit_my_fire_number_giving_notice_on_monday/okw0m90/", "content": "Fuck you!!!!!!!!! And congrats. 🎉" }, { "id": "t1_okvs11k", "author": "/u/Bay_Burner", "updated": "2026-05-09T20:31:56+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8kanx/hit_my_fire_number_giving_notice_on_monday/okvs11k/", "content": "Yo congrats. One of the few who hit their number and plan and actually committed vs getting to the number and wanting more or getting cold feet.\n Best of luck with it all" }, { "id": "t1_okvykcl", "author": "/u/Funkycornelius2", "updated": "2026-05-09T21:07:55+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8kanx/hit_my_fire_number_giving_notice_on_monday/okvykcl/", "content": "Thank you! I already pushed my number once and decided $2.5 was the GTFO number since I have a solid cushion in spending. I've been daydreaming of FIREing for waayyy too long." }, { "id": "t1_okyysgh", "author": "/u/Coach_Carter_on_DVD", "updated": "2026-05-10T10:07:56+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8kanx/hit_my_fire_number_giving_notice_on_monday/okyysgh/", "content": "You’re in a unique position where you can retire, and have years to change your mind incase you feel like you made a mistake. You could also take up some low stress, part time work if you get bored or would like to have some additional spending money. There is no reason to keep working full time if you’re comfortable with your means. Your post is what this movement is all about. Still so young too, you’re really going to enjoy the next 10 years." }, { "id": "t1_ol8eiko", "author": "/u/nybigtymer", "updated": "2026-05-11T19:07:07+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8kanx/hit_my_fire_number_giving_notice_on_monday/ol8eiko/", "content": "That's awesome. Congrats!\n I've pushed my number back a few times. Been locked onto one for several years now, but I could see myself moving the goalpost again as I get closer to my number." }, { "id": "t1_okvswqj", "author": "/u/ginandsoda", "updated": "2026-05-09T20:36:46+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8kanx/hit_my_fire_number_giving_notice_on_monday/okvswqj/", "content": "Are you moving any funds into low-risk, or going to keep letting the dice roll?\n Just curious" }, { "id": "t1_okvz8jx", "author": "/u/Funkycornelius2", "updated": "2026-05-09T21:11:39+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8kanx/hit_my_fire_number_giving_notice_on_monday/okvz8jx/", "content": "I'm keeping ~$180k in bonds/treasuries and ~$50k between HYSA, iBonds, and SGOV. I feel confident about my overall portfolio structure and have 30% international, 20% small value, and a few other sector tilts to a lesser extent." }, { "id": "t1_okw603c", "author": "/u/andthentherewastwo", "updated": "2026-05-09T21:49:23+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8kanx/hit_my_fire_number_giving_notice_on_monday/okw603c/", "content": "What is small value and sector tilts?" }, { "id": "t1_okw8nn1", "author": "/u/Brave-Monke", "updated": "2026-05-09T22:04:36+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8kanx/hit_my_fire_number_giving_notice_on_monday/okw8nn1/", "content": "Does this number account for any dependents?" }, { "id": "t1_okwbj9o", "author": "/u/PantsMicGee", "updated": "2026-05-09T22:21:40+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8kanx/hit_my_fire_number_giving_notice_on_monday/okwbj9o/", "content": "It can't." }, { "id": "t1_onbpoh2", "author": "/u/shirley_241", "updated": "2026-05-22T21:55:13+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8kanx/hit_my_fire_number_giving_notice_on_monday/onbpoh2/", "content": "That's really good. So have you seen any returns yet?" }, { "id": "t1_okvs19f", "author": "/u/Mister-ellaneous", "updated": "2026-05-09T20:31:58+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8kanx/hit_my_fire_number_giving_notice_on_monday/okvs19f/", "content": "Congrats!\n It’s a little wild that your fire number is $2.5M on a $60k spend. But congrats" }, { "id": "t1_okvtzcw", "author": "/u/slicknick654", "updated": "2026-05-09T20:42:34+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8kanx/hit_my_fire_number_giving_notice_on_monday/okvtzcw/", "content": "He’s young, maybe accounting for health care and potential future family" }, { "id": "t1_okvxnw7", "author": "/u/Funkycornelius2", "updated": "2026-05-09T21:02:54+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8kanx/hit_my_fire_number_giving_notice_on_monday/okvxnw7/", "content": "Exactly this. I'm currently in great health but all this concern over cancer rising amongst millennials, having never truly self-funded my healthcare, a mother in her 70s without much retirement savings, and the possibility of a future family made me add a bit of buffer." }, { "id": "t1_okw1l7k", "author": "/u/Walmart-Shopper-22", "updated": "2026-05-09T21:24:37+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8kanx/hit_my_fire_number_giving_notice_on_monday/okw1l7k/", "content": "Very smart. In all likelihood your portfolio will keep growing significantly and you will be able to spend more and more over time while keeping a very low withdrawal rate." }, { "id": "t1_okvwobx", "author": "/u/apples_vs_oranges", "updated": "2026-05-09T20:57:26+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8kanx/hit_my_fire_number_giving_notice_on_monday/okvwobx/", "content": "Kids will suck up your resources!" }, { "id": "t1_okw4mmo", "author": "/u/gcube2000", "updated": "2026-05-09T21:41:36+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8kanx/hit_my_fire_number_giving_notice_on_monday/okw4mmo/", "content": "He/she’s obviously never having kids. (LMAO at the downvotes, good luck supporting kids, gotta love the fire community.)" }, { "id": "t1_okw1sbs", "author": "/u/Crazy-Car948", "updated": "2026-05-09T21:25:41+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8kanx/hit_my_fire_number_giving_notice_on_monday/okw1sbs/", "content": "Imagine having spawns lmao" }, { "id": "t1_okxw5xl", "author": "/u/TenshiS", "updated": "2026-05-10T04:26:39+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8kanx/hit_my_fire_number_giving_notice_on_monday/okxw5xl/", "content": "Crazy how consumerist individualism destroyed society." }, { "id": "t1_okvvczu", "author": "/u/Mister-ellaneous", "updated": "2026-05-09T20:50:12+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8kanx/hit_my_fire_number_giving_notice_on_monday/okvvczu/", "content": "That could make sense" }, { "id": "t1_okvv1rp", "author": "/u/El_Pollo_Del-Mar", "updated": "2026-05-09T20:48:27+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8kanx/hit_my_fire_number_giving_notice_on_monday/okvv1rp/", "content": "Wise buffer for so many life surprises ahead. Shit happens. Expensive shit. I model something basically the same." }, { "id": "t1_okvvnvw", "author": "/u/Mister-ellaneous", "updated": "2026-05-09T20:51:52+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8kanx/hit_my_fire_number_giving_notice_on_monday/okvvnvw/", "content": "4% is an extremely safe withdrawal rate. Most likely even at 4% you’ll double your investments instead of going to zero." }, { "id": "t1_okvyoto", "author": "/u/El_Pollo_Del-Mar", "updated": "2026-05-09T21:08:36+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8kanx/hit_my_fire_number_giving_notice_on_monday/okvyoto/", "content": "I’m my 30s I considered it gospel. In my 40s, I still thought it was a pretty good idea. In my 50s, I still believe in it, but my eyes are wide open to many scenarios where blind adherence can really screw you.\n I think to FIRE is to be inherently conservative if your plans are to escape truly early." }, { "id": "t1_okwd8b6", "author": "/u/Montaigne_6823", "updated": "2026-05-09T22:31:44+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8kanx/hit_my_fire_number_giving_notice_on_monday/okwd8b6/", "content": "ugh, yeah I'd recommend monitoring your portfolio. No one is suggesting blind adherence." }, { "id": "t1_okwjkr4", "author": "/u/Perplexed-Owl", "updated": "2026-05-09T23:10:22+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8kanx/hit_my_fire_number_giving_notice_on_monday/okwjkr4/", "content": "Also in my 50s. My dad retired early-ish in Dec 1999. Significant concentration in a tech stock. He had a wild, wild ride those first few years, but by the time 2008 hit and both he and my mom were on Medicare/SS (this was all before ACA) things had settled, and now he whines about IRMAA (he has both defined pensions and SS, and retired before Roth was really a thing, so the RMDs are ouch)" }, { "id": "t1_okwlv2e", "author": "/u/El_Pollo_Del-Mar", "updated": "2026-05-09T23:24:13+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8kanx/hit_my_fire_number_giving_notice_on_monday/okwlv2e/", "content": "Similar story. Dad is now on Medicare. Had a nasty pneumonia thing earlier that required ER visits and hospital. Even with Medicare, it ended up costing…a lot out of pocket. A lot!\n That and my surprise a/c replacement and roof reshingle (not covered by insurance for reasons too lengthy to get into here) I’m realizing all of the reasons why fire conservatism is a must that’s overlooked often." }, { "id": "t1_okx9n2d", "author": "/u/Mister-ellaneous", "updated": "2026-05-10T01:53:55+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8kanx/hit_my_fire_number_giving_notice_on_monday/okx9n2d/", "content": "It’s uncommon but yes, rising expenses can be an issue. The 4% withdrawal isn’t the issue." }, { "id": "t1_ol1dybb", "author": "/u/droodeepants", "updated": "2026-05-10T18:14:14+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8kanx/hit_my_fire_number_giving_notice_on_monday/ol1dybb/", "content": "Wake up to find that….😉" }, { "id": "t1_okvuvc7", "author": "/u/Viper0us", "updated": "2026-05-09T20:47:27+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8kanx/hit_my_fire_number_giving_notice_on_monday/okvuvc7/", "content": "Why? That's a sub 4% withdrawl rate." }, { "id": "t1_okvvhtd", "author": "/u/Mister-ellaneous", "updated": "2026-05-09T20:50:57+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8kanx/hit_my_fire_number_giving_notice_on_monday/okvvhtd/", "content": "$100k is a 4% withdrawal rate. It’s certainly possible he expects to spend more in retirement. But most people have a hard time spending more after saving for so long." }, { "id": "t1_okvxv9p", "author": "/u/Viper0us", "updated": "2026-05-09T21:04:03+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8kanx/hit_my_fire_number_giving_notice_on_monday/okvxv9p/", "content": "Sorry, I thought were saying it was to low. You were surprised for the opposite reason. Got it now." }, { "id": "t1_okvvafy", "author": "/u/Dman1791", "updated": "2026-05-09T20:49:49+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8kanx/hit_my_fire_number_giving_notice_on_monday/okvvafy/", "content": "I think they're surprised at how low it is (2.4%). 2.4% is probably lower than a perpetual withdrawal rate, in all honesty." }, { "id": "t1_okvvuve", "author": "/u/Wooden-Broccoli-913", "updated": "2026-05-09T20:52:55+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8kanx/hit_my_fire_number_giving_notice_on_monday/okvvuve/", "content": "It’s absolutely lower than that. A 30 year TIPS ladder pays 2.4% real. So OP can withdraw just the interest and still have $2.5M adjusted for inflation in 30 years. And be completely immune from market risk." }, { "id": "t1_okvxc5s", "author": "/u/Dman1791", "updated": "2026-05-09T21:01:05+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8kanx/hit_my_fire_number_giving_notice_on_monday/okvxc5s/", "content": "If you're just spending the coupon, then a TIPS ladder (of the usual kind around here, at least) isn't useful.\n Regardless, a 30Y TIPS is not perpetual. It guarantees you 2.4% real for 30 years starting today, but when time's up and it's time to reinvest, real rates could be sub-1% or even negative." }, { "id": "t1_okvxpc7", "author": "/u/Wooden-Broccoli-913", "updated": "2026-05-09T21:03:08+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8kanx/hit_my_fire_number_giving_notice_on_monday/okvxpc7/", "content": "Who cares what the real rate is when the ladder runs out. OP will be 70 at that point with $2.5M in real dollars and Social Security. That is not perpetual?" }, { "id": "t1_okvyyxd", "author": "/u/Dman1791", "updated": "2026-05-09T21:10:10+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8kanx/hit_my_fire_number_giving_notice_on_monday/okvyyxd/", "content": "The Perpetual Withdrawal Rate of a portfolio is the percent of the principal you can withdraw each year (adjusting for inflation, usually) and have at least as much (again, usually inflation-adjusted) at the end of the defined period than at the beginning.\n So the perpetual withdrawal rate, for a 30 year period, for a portfolio consisting of only 30Y TIPS, is 2.4% right now. But a generalized perpetual withdrawal rate, of an unknown period and portfolio composition, is probably not 2.4%. Could be lower, could be higher. Probably higher, especially with a healthy amount of equities, but it's unknowable for the future." }, { "id": "t1_okw060g", "author": "/u/Wooden-Broccoli-913", "updated": "2026-05-09T21:16:43+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8kanx/hit_my_fire_number_giving_notice_on_monday/okw060g/", "content": "Man the fucking conservatism around here…" }, { "id": "t1_okw2igu", "author": "/u/Dman1791", "updated": "2026-05-09T21:29:40+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8kanx/hit_my_fire_number_giving_notice_on_monday/okw2igu/", "content": "If you're investing to fund potentially 60 years of withdrawals, conservative is exactly what your portfolio should be. Funding withdrawals is literally one of the main reasons to invest conservatively; there's a reason that pension funds aren't running 100% equities." }, { "id": "t1_okw9wxh", "author": "/u/DJjazzyjose", "updated": "2026-05-09T22:11:59+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8kanx/hit_my_fire_number_giving_notice_on_monday/okw9wxh/", "content": "the person you're replying to is literally describing a 100% bond strategy" }, { "id": "t1_oky4zqb", "author": "/u/spiritsarise", "updated": "2026-05-10T05:35:10+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8kanx/hit_my_fire_number_giving_notice_on_monday/oky4zqb/", "content": "Not much in social security, however. OP has, maybe, 15-20 years of earnings out of the 32 or so needed, and then will have zeros plugged in for the remaining years." }, { "id": "t1_okzpbis", "author": "/u/Wooden-Broccoli-913", "updated": "2026-05-10T13:17:10+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8kanx/hit_my_fire_number_giving_notice_on_monday/okzpbis/", "content": "Social security payouts are not linear to contributions. Someone with 17 max wage years and 18 zero wage years out of the total 35 is entitled to 70% of the maximum payout.\n I’m only 40 and if I retired today I would be entitled to $44k per year of Social Security at age 70" }, { "id": "t1_okwb0rp", "author": "/u/OpenBorders69", "updated": "2026-05-09T22:18:35+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8kanx/hit_my_fire_number_giving_notice_on_monday/okwb0rp/", "content": "those are my numbers as well" }, { "id": "t1_okvwpqq", "author": "/u/bigbackwannabe", "updated": "2026-05-09T20:57:40+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8kanx/hit_my_fire_number_giving_notice_on_monday/okvwpqq/", "content": "No notes, just mad respect. Enjoy your future." }, { "id": "t1_okvzcct", "author": "/u/VerdantGarden", "updated": "2026-05-09T21:12:13+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8kanx/hit_my_fire_number_giving_notice_on_monday/okvzcct/", "content": "Congratulations! I don't have any notes, but I just want you to reflect on the fact that you pulled money out of the market two times in a row when things got dicey. Try and remind yourself of these moments in the future when things inevitably get dicey again." }, { "id": "t1_okw1ory", "author": "/u/Funkycornelius2", "updated": "2026-05-09T21:25:09+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8kanx/hit_my_fire_number_giving_notice_on_monday/okw1ory/", "content": "The first time was still actually at all-time highs, before any COVID slump. The second time was after it started to drop ~5%. You're entirely correct and I appreciate the reminder. This has made me add some stern wording to my investment plan to remind myself to always hold steady! Those attempts at market timing were focused on maximizing growth. Since then I've been shifting into a preservation mindset and don't foresee myself "pulling out"." }, { "id": "t1_okw082p", "author": "/u/tjbr87", "updated": "2026-05-09T21:17:03+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8kanx/hit_my_fire_number_giving_notice_on_monday/okw082p/", "content": "If you’re willing to share, I’m curious what your split is between 401k, HSA, Brokerage, etc.\n Maxing 401K the past 16 years is probably less than half of $2.5M" }, { "id": "t1_okzy7rh", "author": "/u/Intrepid-hobbycoder", "updated": "2026-05-10T14:05:37+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8kanx/hit_my_fire_number_giving_notice_on_monday/okzy7rh/", "content": "I had the same question. In fact I have the same question for many of the posts and would like to know if people factor in the inaccessibility of 401k funds until they r 59.5." }, { "id": "t1_okwbq9i", "author": "/u/PantsMicGee", "updated": "2026-05-09T22:22:49+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8kanx/hit_my_fire_number_giving_notice_on_monday/okwbq9i/", "content": "Also will be a long while before tapping into that? I don't understand how a 30 year old could think of retiring when the money is in a 401k?" }, { "id": "t1_okx90qv", "author": "/u/CucumberEmpty7916", "updated": "2026-05-10T01:49:58+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8kanx/hit_my_fire_number_giving_notice_on_monday/okx90qv/", "content": "72t" }, { "id": "t1_okxbhx3", "author": "/u/ohmbrew", "updated": "2026-05-10T02:05:53+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8kanx/hit_my_fire_number_giving_notice_on_monday/okxbhx3/", "content": "Wouldn't a 72t at 30 yrs old lock you in for like...30 years? Do people do this?" }, { "id": "t1_ol074r3", "author": "/u/PantsMicGee", "updated": "2026-05-10T14:50:43+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8kanx/hit_my_fire_number_giving_notice_on_monday/ol074r3/", "content": "Not the smart ones." }, { "id": "t1_okxp1jz", "author": "/u/MechEngr_David", "updated": "2026-05-10T03:35:59+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8kanx/hit_my_fire_number_giving_notice_on_monday/okxp1jz/", "content": "Roth rollovers" }, { "id": "t1_okxsb1d", "author": "/u/tjbr87", "updated": "2026-05-10T03:58:32+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8kanx/hit_my_fire_number_giving_notice_on_monday/okxsb1d/", "content": "Can you roll over from a 401k into a Roth 401k or Roth IRA without paying the penalty?\n You’re still going to owe income taxes either way" }, { "id": "t1_ol3t11c", "author": "/u/Igneous629", "updated": "2026-05-11T02:09:16+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8kanx/hit_my_fire_number_giving_notice_on_monday/ol3t11c/", "content": "You can do Roth conversions. If you have a sizeable taxable brokerage account, you can keep your income pretty low and not pay a high marginal tax rate. That’s my plan. I just recently got laid off at 37 and plan to do Roth conversions next year and into the future. I plan to spend around $105k but going to keep my income around $85 - $95k." }, { "id": "t1_ol0n0zi", "author": "/u/MechEngr_David", "updated": "2026-05-10T16:08:50+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8kanx/hit_my_fire_number_giving_notice_on_monday/ol0n0zi/", "content": "Yes. If it’s traditional 401 to Roth IRA, you rollover without paying any fees but it become taxable income for that year and you have to wait 5 years after the rollover to pull out tax/penalty free.\n Common thing to do is after you stop working a traditional job you do rollovers every year when you’re in a low tax bracket for your income 5 years from now. Takes a little planning sure, but not that hard. This is all information you can find yourself by looking into fi scientists or just researching rollover rules" }, { "id": "t1_ol06rv2", "author": "/u/PantsMicGee", "updated": "2026-05-10T14:48:55+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8kanx/hit_my_fire_number_giving_notice_on_monday/ol06rv2/", "content": "Right lmao.\n Half the time reddit FIRE subs are just uneducated hopefuls." }, { "id": "t1_ol3wft6", "author": "/u/Igneous629", "updated": "2026-05-11T02:29:58+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8kanx/hit_my_fire_number_giving_notice_on_monday/ol3wft6/", "content": "You can do Roth conversions. If you have a sizeable taxable brokerage account, you can keep your income pretty low and not pay a high marginal tax rate. That’s my plan. I just recently got laid off at 37 and plan to do Roth conversions next year and into the future. I plan to spend around $105k but going to keep my income around $85 - $95k." }, { "id": "t1_ol6hmhu", "author": "/u/PantsMicGee", "updated": "2026-05-11T13:54:41+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8kanx/hit_my_fire_number_giving_notice_on_monday/ol6hmhu/", "content": "That is true but doesn't help you spend it prior to 65." }, { "id": "t1_ol8878e", "author": "/u/Igneous629", "updated": "2026-05-11T18:38:25+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8kanx/hit_my_fire_number_giving_notice_on_monday/ol8878e/", "content": "It does, because once you make the conversion, if you wait 5 years you can pull the money out without penalty. I would encourage you to ask questions instead of calling people uneducated hopefuls." }, { "id": "t1_okwbtow", "author": "/u/Left-Astronaut6273", "updated": "2026-05-09T22:23:22+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8kanx/hit_my_fire_number_giving_notice_on_monday/okwbtow/", "content": "House paid off? Any wife and kids? Well done by the way, this would be so awesome." }, { "id": "t1_okw0uo3", "author": "/u/stentordoctor", "updated": "2026-05-09T21:20:33+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8kanx/hit_my_fire_number_giving_notice_on_monday/okw0uo3/", "content": "Please tell us how it goes! I want all the juicy details, are they surprised, did they ask if you have anything lined up?" }, { "id": "t1_okw5bip", "author": "/u/Dalu11", "updated": "2026-05-09T21:45:30+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8kanx/hit_my_fire_number_giving_notice_on_monday/okw5bip/", "content": "Congrats!!! How do you plan on dealing with health insurance?" }, { "id": "t1_okvw01e", "author": "/u/fredinNH", "updated": "2026-05-09T20:53:42+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8kanx/hit_my_fire_number_giving_notice_on_monday/okvw01e/", "content": "Congratulations! But stop trying to time the market." }, { "id": "t1_okxdxl9", "author": "/u/tyen0", "updated": "2026-05-10T02:21:17+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8kanx/hit_my_fire_number_giving_notice_on_monday/okxdxl9/", "content": "That was irking me, too! Mentioned Bogleheads but not actually doing it. Total US + total ex-US + bonds should be it." }, { "id": "t1_okyy7od", "author": "/u/Coach_Carter_on_DVD", "updated": "2026-05-10T10:02:41+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8kanx/hit_my_fire_number_giving_notice_on_monday/okyy7od/", "content": "Wow, a real FIRE post. I feel like most posts these days are I have 5 million dollars at age 48, but I’m never going to retire .\n Good work homeslice." }, { "id": "t1_ol23hcj", "author": "/u/Funkycornelius2", "updated": "2026-05-10T20:18:05+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8kanx/hit_my_fire_number_giving_notice_on_monday/ol23hcj/", "content": "Thank you! As a long time consumer of FIRE content I tried to not let the fact that FIRE numbers in this sub have greatly exceeded inflation over the past ~7 years affect me too much. I have a buffer I'm very comfortable with." }, { "id": "t1_okvvm7u", "author": "/u/Vince_Clortho_Jr", "updated": "2026-05-09T20:51:36+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8kanx/hit_my_fire_number_giving_notice_on_monday/okvvm7u/", "content": "Y, GF" }, { "id": "t1_okw4455", "author": "/u/Prestigious_Piano247", "updated": "2026-05-09T21:38:41+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8kanx/hit_my_fire_number_giving_notice_on_monday/okw4455/", "content": "Congrats... 2.5 mil is cool. I have 1/2 of that retiring or getting laid off in 3.5 years or less. which ever comes first." }, { "id": "t1_okvte05", "author": "/u/miayakuza", "updated": "2026-05-09T20:39:21+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8kanx/hit_my_fire_number_giving_notice_on_monday/okvte05/", "content": "GFY and enjoy your freedom. Well deserved!" }, { "id": "t1_okvv1av", "author": "/u/jonboy0706", "updated": "2026-05-09T20:48:23+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8kanx/hit_my_fire_number_giving_notice_on_monday/okvv1av/", "content": "GFY!!" }, { "id": "t1_okvvv5k", "author": "/u/According-Item-2306", "updated": "2026-05-09T20:52:57+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8kanx/hit_my_fire_number_giving_notice_on_monday/okvvv5k/", "content": "Congrats\n 1) Make sure you take into account health insurance in your expense\n 2) move from an asset accumulation mindset to an asset protection one" }, { "id": "t1_oky5muw", "author": "/u/spiritsarise", "updated": "2026-05-10T05:40:43+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8kanx/hit_my_fire_number_giving_notice_on_monday/oky5muw/", "content": "And long term care in old age. Life will be brutal without some protection. My wife and I have built LT health care into our plans." }, { "id": "t1_okw3svl", "author": "/u/kaekiro", "updated": "2026-05-09T21:36:54+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8kanx/hit_my_fire_number_giving_notice_on_monday/okw3svl/", "content": "Congrats and go fuck yourself!" }, { "id": "t1_okxg7id", "author": "/u/bunnyhop20", "updated": "2026-05-10T02:35:55+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8kanx/hit_my_fire_number_giving_notice_on_monday/okxg7id/", "content": "I thought GFY was “Good For You” , now I know!" }, { "id": "t1_ol6ufo3", "author": "/u/Jimbo91397", "updated": "2026-05-11T14:55:13+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8kanx/hit_my_fire_number_giving_notice_on_monday/ol6ufo3/", "content": "Imagine all the past downvotes 😂" }, { "id": "t1_okw6m4c", "author": "/u/ImBored_0911", "updated": "2026-05-09T21:52:50+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8kanx/hit_my_fire_number_giving_notice_on_monday/okw6m4c/", "content": "Wow crazy it only took 16 years to get to this number. Congratulations! Go enjoy life!" }, { "id": "t1_okwu1qo", "author": "/u/gauchomuchacho", "updated": "2026-05-10T00:15:06+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8kanx/hit_my_fire_number_giving_notice_on_monday/okwu1qo/", "content": "Congratulations, and as is tradition, go fuck yourself!" }, { "id": "t1_okvz3zb", "author": "/u/The_Federal", "updated": "2026-05-09T21:10:57+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8kanx/hit_my_fire_number_giving_notice_on_monday/okvz3zb/", "content": "Do it. Worst case, you take a year off and hate it, in a bad job market and start looking for work next year with the world’s largest emergency fund." }, { "id": "t1_okw7qam", "author": "/u/SouthernZorro", "updated": "2026-05-09T21:59:13+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8kanx/hit_my_fire_number_giving_notice_on_monday/okw7qam/", "content": ""I was exceptionally lucky in that I went all in, back in the market on March 23rd, which happened to be just about the low point. "\n And that is sooooo sweet. What a great feeling too. I've managed to buy back in at a couple of low points myself and it puts rocket fuel in your investing." }, { "id": "t1_okx77v0", "author": "/u/meaksda7", "updated": "2026-05-10T01:38:37+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8kanx/hit_my_fire_number_giving_notice_on_monday/okx77v0/", "content": "congrats, thats also my target number. can i ask if you have a paid off house or are you renting?" }, { "id": "t1_okyevu8", "author": "/u/Funkycornelius2", "updated": "2026-05-10T07:02:31+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8kanx/hit_my_fire_number_giving_notice_on_monday/okyevu8/", "content": "Sort of both.. I have a mostly paid off home which I'm in no rush to pay off the 2.75% rate. I've been renting it out the past few years (rent exceeds my PITI and cashflows a bit) and renting in a different state." }, { "id": "t1_okyppgv", "author": "/u/stelbunny", "updated": "2026-05-10T08:43:02+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8kanx/hit_my_fire_number_giving_notice_on_monday/okyppgv/", "content": "The Mr. Money Mustache pipeline is so real, that blog genuinely changed the way an entire generation thought about money and retirement" }, { "id": "t1_okw0san", "author": "/u/the_kid1234", "updated": "2026-05-09T21:20:11+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8kanx/hit_my_fire_number_giving_notice_on_monday/okw0san/", "content": "Are you about 50/50 401k and after tax?\n And congrats!" }, { "id": "t1_okw2bs8", "author": "/u/Funkycornelius2", "updated": "2026-05-09T21:28:38+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8kanx/hit_my_fire_number_giving_notice_on_monday/okw2bs8/", "content": "I'm $743k in 401k/Traditional, $240k ROTH, 56k HSA, and the rest in taxable brokerage." }, { "id": "t1_okw7zgs", "author": "/u/odanobux123", "updated": "2026-05-09T22:00:41+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8kanx/hit_my_fire_number_giving_notice_on_monday/okw7zgs/", "content": "Damn your numbers and age are similar but your taxable brokerage smashes mine." }, { "id": "t1_okw92q4", "author": "/u/Future-looker1996", "updated": "2026-05-09T22:07:02+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8kanx/hit_my_fire_number_giving_notice_on_monday/okw92q4/", "content": "GFY!" }, { "id": "t1_okysrza", "author": "/u/lowkeymorbin", "updated": "2026-05-10T09:11:57+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8kanx/hit_my_fire_number_giving_notice_on_monday/okysrza/", "content": "Honestly one of the most refreshing FIRE posts because it wasn’t built on a crazy FAANG salary or inheritance. Keeping expenses controlled for that long is probably the biggest reason this worked. Also appreciate the honesty about the market timing mistakes because a lot of people only talk about the wins. Hitting financial freedom before 40 with consistent investing and reasonable spending is huge." }, { "id": "t1_ol4lprf", "author": "/u/TheHumanConnector", "updated": "2026-05-11T05:35:44+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8kanx/hit_my_fire_number_giving_notice_on_monday/ol4lprf/", "content": "OP! Congrats. Enjoy. Sleep well.\n\n- fellow 38yo retired single guy. I'm having the best time of my life, helping my people, eating well and partying so much! I retired with less than a mil and a lot of joy and peace that I want to spread. And without a grinding job,.it's so easy. Life is beautiful now. It's worth celebrating 💚" }, { "id": "t1_okvyw8z", "author": "/u/Past-Option2702", "updated": "2026-05-09T21:09:45+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8kanx/hit_my_fire_number_giving_notice_on_monday/okvyw8z/", "content": "Market timing seems to be a potential problem for you." }, { "id": "t1_okw1xv4", "author": "/u/Crazy-Car948", "updated": "2026-05-09T21:26:31+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8kanx/hit_my_fire_number_giving_notice_on_monday/okw1xv4/", "content": "Lmao" }, { "id": "t1_okw4gkp", "author": "/u/amilke27", "updated": "2026-05-09T21:40:38+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8kanx/hit_my_fire_number_giving_notice_on_monday/okw4gkp/", "content": "Congrats! What’s your health insurance plan and cost estimate once you’re off the employer plan?" }, { "id": "t1_okwd60c", "author": "/u/mj102500", "updated": "2026-05-09T22:31:22+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8kanx/hit_my_fire_number_giving_notice_on_monday/okwd60c/", "content": "Congrats !!\n What’s the breakdown looking like? I’m a 30M and would love to pick your brain and ask questions about savings rate and stuff if you don’t mind me DMing" }, { "id": "t1_okwiegb", "author": "/u/Eff_taxes", "updated": "2026-05-09T23:03:06+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8kanx/hit_my_fire_number_giving_notice_on_monday/okwiegb/", "content": "LFG $2.x club, rooting for you. Right behind you, damn scope creep" }, { "id": "t1_okwjqnq", "author": "/u/DrGoozoo", "updated": "2026-05-09T23:11:22+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8kanx/hit_my_fire_number_giving_notice_on_monday/okwjqnq/", "content": "-$1.8M is my net worth at 37 with mortgage and student loans. This sub seems fictional to me" }, { "id": "t1_oky5mfj", "author": "/u/FamilyRootsQuest", "updated": "2026-05-10T05:40:37+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8kanx/hit_my_fire_number_giving_notice_on_monday/oky5mfj/", "content": "How do you have 1.8M in student loans? Are you a doctor?" }, { "id": "t1_okwkpgz", "author": "/u/Vanerac", "updated": "2026-05-09T23:17:17+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8kanx/hit_my_fire_number_giving_notice_on_monday/okwkpgz/", "content": "I’m similar to you I’m only 28, but I’ve been tried to save as much as possible and been maxing my 401k and Roth IRA since I got out of undergrad.\n Also similar to you, my parents struggled a lot with finances and I will certainly be getting nothing for inheritance. I found out when I graduated college that my parents were 40k in credit card debt and have since gone bankrupt.\n I hope to be where you are in 10 years. I hope you enjoy every minute of it!" }, { "id": "t1_okz7vyx", "author": "/u/North-Weird-9095", "updated": "2026-05-10T11:23:55+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8kanx/hit_my_fire_number_giving_notice_on_monday/okz7vyx/", "content": "Congrats - the next few months will be amazing, the few after that is where people make or break their decision. Stay active and with the hobbies (and dog) you have I bet you’ll do great! My biggest lesson to share is how important some type of community is (whatever that means to you) - now go have a blast!" }, { "id": "t1_ol3avsb", "author": "/u/addilynroyce", "updated": "2026-05-11T00:20:43+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8kanx/hit_my_fire_number_giving_notice_on_monday/ol3avsb/", "content": "Congratulations! Enjoy the fruits of your labor" }, { "id": "t1_okvso6c", "author": "/u/Captlard", "updated": "2026-05-09T20:35:27+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8kanx/hit_my_fire_number_giving_notice_on_monday/okvso6c/", "content": "Congrats!" }, { "id": "t1_okvtrum", "author": "/u/Imlooloo", "updated": "2026-05-09T20:41:26+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8kanx/hit_my_fire_number_giving_notice_on_monday/okvtrum/", "content": "This is America" }, { "id": "t1_okvvbbf", "author": "/u/Easy-Lab-1768", "updated": "2026-05-09T20:49:57+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8kanx/hit_my_fire_number_giving_notice_on_monday/okvvbbf/", "content": "Congratulations!! Can’t wait to read more about how you’re experiencing your new freedom" }, { "id": "t1_okvwize", "author": "/u/todayistheday666", "updated": "2026-05-09T20:56:37+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8kanx/hit_my_fire_number_giving_notice_on_monday/okvwize/", "content": "congrats !!!! enjoy" }, { "id": "t1_okvxdzv", "author": "/u/cancunmx", "updated": "2026-05-09T21:01:21+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8kanx/hit_my_fire_number_giving_notice_on_monday/okvxdzv/", "content": "Do you plan to stay in the United States or slow travel to countries where a little goes a long way?" }, { "id": "t1_okw0ogl", "author": "/u/Funkycornelius2", "updated": "2026-05-09T21:19:36+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8kanx/hit_my_fire_number_giving_notice_on_monday/okw0ogl/", "content": "I used to travel a lot (been to over 40 countries doing the shoestring budget backpacker thing). But I have an exceptionally needy dog I can't leave. So the plan is to stay in the US for now." }, { "id": "t1_ollmjgo", "author": "/u/PHL1365", "updated": "2026-05-13T17:02:16+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8kanx/hit_my_fire_number_giving_notice_on_monday/ollmjgo/", "content": "Longer term, you could consider moving overseas and essentially double your spending power." }, { "id": "t1_okw1hgk", "author": "/u/Nerd_1144", "updated": "2026-05-09T21:24:03+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8kanx/hit_my_fire_number_giving_notice_on_monday/okw1hgk/", "content": "Hearty congratulations!! GFY!!" }, { "id": "t1_okw1onm", "author": "/u/billy269", "updated": "2026-05-09T21:25:08+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8kanx/hit_my_fire_number_giving_notice_on_monday/okw1onm/", "content": "Ahead of me by a bit but very similar situation. Congratulations!" }, { "id": "t1_okw2yxb", "author": "/u/u2sarajevo", "updated": "2026-05-09T21:32:12+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8kanx/hit_my_fire_number_giving_notice_on_monday/okw2yxb/", "content": "GFY!!!" }, { "id": "t1_okw33rx", "author": "/u/u2sarajevo", "updated": "2026-05-09T21:32:57+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8kanx/hit_my_fire_number_giving_notice_on_monday/okw33rx/", "content": "Should have said.... I'm so close too.... just not as young." }, { "id": "t1_okw3151", "author": "/u/NTP2001", "updated": "2026-05-09T21:32:34+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8kanx/hit_my_fire_number_giving_notice_on_monday/okw3151/", "content": "Jealous - congrats!" }, { "id": "t1_okw4az2", "author": "/u/lagosboy40", "updated": "2026-05-09T21:39:46+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8kanx/hit_my_fire_number_giving_notice_on_monday/okw4az2/", "content": "Congratulations. The sacrifice and patience has paid off big time. Enjoy your retirement. It is well deserved." }, { "id": "t1_okw4phw", "author": "/u/Ok_Dealer6508", "updated": "2026-05-09T21:42:03+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8kanx/hit_my_fire_number_giving_notice_on_monday/okw4phw/", "content": "How wonderful, congratulations!!" }, { "id": "t1_okw9sej", "author": "/u/Playful_Annual3007", "updated": "2026-05-09T22:11:15+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8kanx/hit_my_fire_number_giving_notice_on_monday/okw9sej/", "content": "Congratulations, and GFY!" }, { "id": "t1_okwd7oz", "author": "/u/midnight_entice", "updated": "2026-05-09T22:31:38+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8kanx/hit_my_fire_number_giving_notice_on_monday/okwd7oz/", "content": "Congrats, you earned that freedom, now go enjoy the boring part" }, { "id": "t1_okwdh0k", "author": "/u/fame2robotz", "updated": "2026-05-09T22:33:12+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8kanx/hit_my_fire_number_giving_notice_on_monday/okwdh0k/", "content": "So you don’t plan to have kids or start a family?" }, { "id": "t1_okwdzr6", "author": "/u/Agitated-Present-286", "updated": "2026-05-09T22:36:19+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8kanx/hit_my_fire_number_giving_notice_on_monday/okwdzr6/", "content": "Huge congrats! You're not fooling around like some when people say they hit their number." }, { "id": "t1_okwfn2n", "author": "/u/goosefraba1", "updated": "2026-05-09T22:46:19+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8kanx/hit_my_fire_number_giving_notice_on_monday/okwfn2n/", "content": "This is so damn cool. Excited to hear updates! Congratulations!" }, { "id": "t1_okwhjxd", "author": "/u/teslastats", "updated": "2026-05-09T22:57:55+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8kanx/hit_my_fire_number_giving_notice_on_monday/okwhjxd/", "content": "So do you change your strategy to be all bonds and live off the interest? Or let it ride?" }, { "id": "t1_okyeedx", "author": "/u/Funkycornelius2", "updated": "2026-05-10T06:58:10+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8kanx/hit_my_fire_number_giving_notice_on_monday/okyeedx/", "content": "I'm maintaining >85% equities and have a cash/bond/tbill wedge." }, { "id": "t1_okwju26", "author": "/u/huang1et", "updated": "2026-05-09T23:11:56+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8kanx/hit_my_fire_number_giving_notice_on_monday/okwju26/", "content": "inspiring!" }, { "id": "t1_okwkm1s", "author": "/u/Proof-Relation-1943", "updated": "2026-05-09T23:16:42+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8kanx/hit_my_fire_number_giving_notice_on_monday/okwkm1s/", "content": "Mind sharing what industry / approximate salary got you there?\n Huge fucking congratulations friend" }, { "id": "t1_okwq9iy", "author": "/u/xanderpua", "updated": "2026-05-09T23:51:14+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8kanx/hit_my_fire_number_giving_notice_on_monday/okwq9iy/", "content": "Proud of you bro." }, { "id": "t1_okws4tk", "author": "/u/Xvisionman", "updated": "2026-05-10T00:02:58+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8kanx/hit_my_fire_number_giving_notice_on_monday/okws4tk/", "content": "Congrats on the early retirement. Good for you" }, { "id": "t1_okwvbkm", "author": "/u/Bsdshadow", "updated": "2026-05-10T00:23:03+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8kanx/hit_my_fire_number_giving_notice_on_monday/okwvbkm/", "content": "Congratulations and go fuck yourself" }, { "id": "t1_okwvoqq", "author": "/u/The_Walrus_65", "updated": "2026-05-10T00:25:22+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8kanx/hit_my_fire_number_giving_notice_on_monday/okwvoqq/", "content": "God bless MMM!!!" }, { "id": "t1_okwyp4t", "author": "/u/Suspicious_Mine7212", "updated": "2026-05-10T00:44:50+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8kanx/hit_my_fire_number_giving_notice_on_monday/okwyp4t/", "content": "Congrats to you!! Inspiring" }, { "id": "t1_okwz15w", "author": "/u/netkool", "updated": "2026-05-10T00:46:57+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8kanx/hit_my_fire_number_giving_notice_on_monday/okwz15w/", "content": "Impressive! Congratulations!!" }, { "id": "t1_okxeoph", "author": "/u/Civil-Service8550", "updated": "2026-05-10T02:26:08+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8kanx/hit_my_fire_number_giving_notice_on_monday/okxeoph/", "content": "Where do you live? Did you factor in higher medical insurance?" }, { "id": "t1_okxo8gx", "author": "/u/Chet100", "updated": "2026-05-10T03:30:15+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8kanx/hit_my_fire_number_giving_notice_on_monday/okxo8gx/", "content": "Congrats bud. Don't stay single too long. It's fun when you have a companion to grow old with" }, { "id": "t1_okyf4et", "author": "/u/Funkycornelius2", "updated": "2026-05-10T07:04:41+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8kanx/hit_my_fire_number_giving_notice_on_monday/okyf4et/", "content": "Slightly sore subject, but I'm in no rush. I recently left a 4 year relationship with the wrong woman. Very glad we didn't marry." }, { "id": "t1_okzkpo5", "author": "/u/Chet100", "updated": "2026-05-10T12:50:27+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8kanx/hit_my_fire_number_giving_notice_on_monday/okzkpo5/", "content": "Ofcourse. Happiness is key...good luck moving forward..." }, { "id": "t1_oky2c4o", "author": "/u/Willing_Ad7901", "updated": "2026-05-10T05:13:06+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8kanx/hit_my_fire_number_giving_notice_on_monday/oky2c4o/", "content": "what is bogleheads? im new" }, { "id": "t1_oky548u", "author": "/u/dxpe_08", "updated": "2026-05-10T05:36:16+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8kanx/hit_my_fire_number_giving_notice_on_monday/oky548u/", "content": "> “As COVID was approaching, I was very tied to the news and feedback from those involved with supply chain on Reddit. I pulled a large share of my assets out of the market in February 2020. I was exceptionally lucky in that I went all in, back in the market on March 23rd, which happened to be just about the low point. This was the most significant impact on my invested net worth. I also made >$250k on VIX calls. This was the last time I spent more than $5k on options.”\n This is not luck, you’re the fucking GOAT. Timing the market can certainly be a skill" }, { "id": "t1_okysanu", "author": "/u/MaleficentWeek4583", "updated": "2026-05-10T09:07:27+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8kanx/hit_my_fire_number_giving_notice_on_monday/okysanu/", "content": "Congrats! How did you manage to control your spending as your net worth was going up?\n Currently using a personal finance app (Hey Penny) to keep me in check, and it works! But not sure if this would get me to your level in the near future" }, { "id": "t1_ol22bhl", "author": "/u/Funkycornelius2", "updated": "2026-05-10T20:12:21+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8kanx/hit_my_fire_number_giving_notice_on_monday/ol22bhl/", "content": "Thanks! Honestly, I never had much issue with keeping spending in check. I refuse to pinch pennies when it comes to buying quality foods from the grocery store, but I've also never been the type to drop $400 per person on a fancy dinner. I'll splurge on my hobbies - have spent >$7,000 on ski gear over the past 4 seasons - but I generally don't have expensive tastes. I enjoy traveling but truly don't mind purchasing the cheapest seat available despite having very long legs. Even if I had $5M+ I don't think I'd feel the need to pay a 50-100+% premium for a roomier seat. Frankly, I grew up with a bad scarcity mindset and have been intentionally trying to spend more on little comforts." }, { "id": "t1_olbfpyt", "author": "/u/MaleficentWeek4583", "updated": "2026-05-12T05:23:24+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8kanx/hit_my_fire_number_giving_notice_on_monday/olbfpyt/", "content": "Got it. Thanks. Feel the same way actually. Good to know that this lifestyle might work" }, { "id": "t1_okyw3mf", "author": "/u/Stk4nams5", "updated": "2026-05-10T09:43:29+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8kanx/hit_my_fire_number_giving_notice_on_monday/okyw3mf/", "content": "Congratulations!" }, { "id": "t1_okzeyj2", "author": "/u/Similar_Category_995", "updated": "2026-05-10T12:13:57+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8kanx/hit_my_fire_number_giving_notice_on_monday/okzeyj2/", "content": "I am in similar situation, can relate. Except that i am married with 2 kids and will hit 2.5M End of year. Still planning to pull the plug! Left H1B rat race, feeling a lot more relaxed than ever" }, { "id": "t1_okzgt2f", "author": "/u/seattlefier", "updated": "2026-05-10T12:26:04+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8kanx/hit_my_fire_number_giving_notice_on_monday/okzgt2f/", "content": "Well done, fellow mustachian! Share updates on what you end up doing with your post-money life." }, { "id": "t1_okzoulc", "author": "/u/Budgeting_Shri", "updated": "2026-05-10T13:14:31+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8kanx/hit_my_fire_number_giving_notice_on_monday/okzoulc/", "content": "That's awesome!\n Does the $2.5 include IRAs and 401Ks? Or just brokerage?\n What's your plan for bridging medical insurance?" }, { "id": "t1_ol0788s", "author": "/u/tkc324", "updated": "2026-05-10T14:51:11+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8kanx/hit_my_fire_number_giving_notice_on_monday/ol0788s/", "content": "2.5 MM At late 30s…. F You and congrats sir.. you’ve earned it and am very happy for you. Now go get some sleep!" }, { "id": "t1_ol0iim2", "author": "/u/Practical_Library_75", "updated": "2026-05-10T15:46:52+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8kanx/hit_my_fire_number_giving_notice_on_monday/ol0iim2/", "content": "You got kids ?" }, { "id": "t1_ol0lcfe", "author": "/u/Judson_Scott", "updated": "2026-05-10T16:00:33+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8kanx/hit_my_fire_number_giving_notice_on_monday/ol0lcfe/", "content": "Market timing isn't dumb (it would be great if people would stop parroting this); it's just inconsistent. Sometimes it's just easy money. Sometimes it doesn't work out. It just takes patience, since obvious opportunities only come around every few years.\n I retired several years earlier than I would have otherwise by timing the market pretty well, both in the Great Recession and during covid. Even last year I made out very well with the whole "Liberation Day" nonsense." }, { "id": "t1_ol0okp4", "author": "/u/1234firefly", "updated": "2026-05-10T16:16:29+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8kanx/hit_my_fire_number_giving_notice_on_monday/ol0okp4/", "content": "Awesome! I'm curious how you calculated and recalculated your FIRE # over time if you're willing to share." }, { "id": "t1_ol12rma", "author": "/u/apierge", "updated": "2026-05-10T17:24:13+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8kanx/hit_my_fire_number_giving_notice_on_monday/ol12rma/", "content": "Will your exposure to risk will change after you’ll pull the trigger ? How do you plan to rebalance your portfolio ?" }, { "id": "t1_ol1ck9p", "author": "/u/Ilovethedaffodils", "updated": "2026-05-10T18:07:48+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8kanx/hit_my_fire_number_giving_notice_on_monday/ol1ck9p/", "content": "Congratulations! GFY!" }, { "id": "t1_ol1gb9r", "author": "/u/AravindAmrutha", "updated": "2026-05-10T18:25:26+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8kanx/hit_my_fire_number_giving_notice_on_monday/ol1gb9r/", "content": "Congratulations, great to know you have achieved your goal. Inspires to keep working towards mine." }, { "id": "t1_ol1wfo0", "author": "/u/Lakeview121", "updated": "2026-05-10T19:43:28+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8kanx/hit_my_fire_number_giving_notice_on_monday/ol1wfo0/", "content": "Where are you going to put your money now that you’re in preservation mode?" }, { "id": "t1_ol2hsp8", "author": "/u/tankdream", "updated": "2026-05-10T21:30:37+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8kanx/hit_my_fire_number_giving_notice_on_monday/ol2hsp8/", "content": "Very good luck on investment indeed.\n I pretty much didn’t make any money during Covid, combining wins and losses. Might as well put them in a bank lol. Luck doesn’t exist in my life…" }, { "id": "t1_ol3hzuv", "author": "/u/Big_Rhubarb9099", "updated": "2026-05-11T01:02:11+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8kanx/hit_my_fire_number_giving_notice_on_monday/ol3hzuv/", "content": "Please, at your earliest convenience, GFY!\n And congratulations!" }, { "id": "t1_ol479dh", "author": "/u/Revules", "updated": "2026-05-11T03:43:33+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8kanx/hit_my_fire_number_giving_notice_on_monday/ol479dh/", "content": "Is the trick really to save 80k a year and invest? With taxes that even seems hard on 180k... How do you do it?" }, { "id": "t1_ol4bejn", "author": "/u/ArmytoFS", "updated": "2026-05-11T04:13:51+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8kanx/hit_my_fire_number_giving_notice_on_monday/ol4bejn/", "content": "I assume you’re single??" }, { "id": "t1_ol4j074", "author": "/u/ChuckOfTheIrish", "updated": "2026-05-11T05:13:17+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8kanx/hit_my_fire_number_giving_notice_on_monday/ol4j074/", "content": "My only note would be to knock out any medical/dental/vision appointments before you leave as the benefits are either much more expensive or much worse when private." }, { "id": "t1_ol54st7", "author": "/u/idekl", "updated": "2026-05-11T08:22:43+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8kanx/hit_my_fire_number_giving_notice_on_monday/ol54st7/", "content": "Question: Are you a fan of Cornelia Funke? Because Inkheart and Dragon Rider were my JAM" }, { "id": "t1_ol5jf6k", "author": "/u/sandoobah", "updated": "2026-05-11T10:29:21+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8kanx/hit_my_fire_number_giving_notice_on_monday/ol5jf6k/", "content": "I love this for you!!!!!" }, { "id": "t1_ol5vq2z", "author": "/u/DShinobiPirate", "updated": "2026-05-11T11:54:35+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8kanx/hit_my_fire_number_giving_notice_on_monday/ol5vq2z/", "content": "Nice man. Nice. Enjoy" }, { "id": "t1_ol5xzos", "author": "/u/thingalinga", "updated": "2026-05-11T12:08:21+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8kanx/hit_my_fire_number_giving_notice_on_monday/ol5xzos/", "content": "If you don’t mind, I have a few questions- How much of it is in a regular investment account? What is your strategy for pulling money out from retirement accounts? What is your plan for health care? What is your annual spend? Congratulations- GFY" }, { "id": "t1_ol66kiq", "author": "/u/paq12x", "updated": "2026-05-11T12:57:44+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8kanx/hit_my_fire_number_giving_notice_on_monday/ol66kiq/", "content": "Congrats.\n Going from $40k/year to ~$180k/yr in 16 years is very well done. A 10% average salary increase in 16 years is out of the norm for most people.\n FIRE in your 30s is the dream.\n Congrats." }, { "id": "t1_ol6ehpi", "author": "/u/TeeDeeTeeEcks", "updated": "2026-05-11T13:39:11+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8kanx/hit_my_fire_number_giving_notice_on_monday/ol6ehpi/", "content": "Dude, this is awesome. I love seeing posts of people who actually walk the talk and retire early. A lot of folks (me included) keep revising the number. In my case, it's because of my small but growing family - they bring me more joy than a number ever would, so I was okay with revising it to account for my kids. But I look forward to walking the talk once I hit my new number." }, { "id": "t1_ol74yhf", "author": "/u/CndnCowboy1975", "updated": "2026-05-11T15:42:36+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8kanx/hit_my_fire_number_giving_notice_on_monday/ol74yhf/", "content": "Congrats friend - and good luck on your journey!!" }, { "id": "t1_ol9f010", "author": "/u/damdamin_", "updated": "2026-05-11T21:59:03+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8kanx/hit_my_fire_number_giving_notice_on_monday/ol9f010/", "content": "Congratulations brother!!" }, { "id": "t1_old683f", "author": "/u/Endless-Vince", "updated": "2026-05-12T13:09:48+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8kanx/hit_my_fire_number_giving_notice_on_monday/old683f/", "content": "Congratulations and go fuck yourself!" }, { "id": "t1_ole4tlv", "author": "/u/runnymountain", "updated": "2026-05-12T15:49:55+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8kanx/hit_my_fire_number_giving_notice_on_monday/ole4tlv/", "content": "Congratulations!!!\n I came from a similar background like yourself. Just stepped into my 30s, and hopefully in a few years I can be like you.\n Could you share what your plans are regarding how you’re keeping your assets? I’ve always been 100% equity, but I wonder what one would do when they give notice and retire. Do you have any safeguards on preserving it? And what % are you maintaining for short term use?\n Secondly, for big ticket mandatory spending, such as health insurance, how are you tackling that?\n Also curious, what part of the country do you live, like HCOL/LCOL etc. and do you foresee spending increase when it comes to hobbies or more free time etc.\n Personally, I feel like I would have anxiety withdrawing from my portfolio and seeing the networth drop. Even though ideally market would outperform spending, liquidating 50,000 a pop every year is still a scary idea to me." }, { "id": "t1_olgb9ng", "author": "/u/Ok_Onion8501", "updated": "2026-05-12T21:43:27+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8kanx/hit_my_fire_number_giving_notice_on_monday/olgb9ng/", "content": "Big congratulations! Hope you have enough hobbies to fill the time in a meaningful way for you. Can always hop back in and give yourself a buffet if need be or you’re bored. I think those would be my bigger concerns…but that’s just me. In any event you should be proud of the discipline to pull this off and relieve the pressure of the grind" }, { "id": "t1_olhn0t9", "author": "/u/fugu_master", "updated": "2026-05-13T02:04:59+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8kanx/hit_my_fire_number_giving_notice_on_monday/olhn0t9/", "content": "Congrats! If you ever get married, make sure you get a pre-nup, no exceptions!\n Definitely spend the first year enjoying your passions and building a new routine. Routine is important, but so is having some purpose... which can take some time to find." }, { "id": "t1_oliqa9i", "author": "/u/Green-Command-5232", "updated": "2026-05-13T06:38:50+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8kanx/hit_my_fire_number_giving_notice_on_monday/oliqa9i/", "content": "Wouldnt It make Sense to wait for them to Fire you to get some additional benefits?" }, { "id": "t1_olj53x0", "author": "/u/cantiludan", "updated": "2026-05-13T08:47:30+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8kanx/hit_my_fire_number_giving_notice_on_monday/olj53x0/", "content": "I got out at 42, 7 years ago. Never actually hit my planned number, was focused on lowering expenses. Re-ran the numbers after getting mortgage paid off. Saw I could do it and was done.\n 7 years later still have nightmares about my job and feel like I did not get out soon enough." }, { "id": "t1_olks5h3", "author": "/u/Woberwob", "updated": "2026-05-13T14:47:32+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8kanx/hit_my_fire_number_giving_notice_on_monday/olks5h3/", "content": "Amazing. You hit your number, and now you’re free.\n Go enjoy life. Golf is a really good endless challenge too." }, { "id": "t1_ollu1oc", "author": "/u/Tough7432", "updated": "2026-05-13T17:34:56+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8kanx/hit_my_fire_number_giving_notice_on_monday/ollu1oc/", "content": "That is awesome. Yeah we all try to time the market thinking we know or suspect is best. Sometimes it wins sometimes it doesn't. EVEN with all the advice at our finger tips. You are set. That much potential time of retirement probable warrants less than 4%. But at 3% you are looking at 75k gross. And MOST likely it continues to grow large." }, { "id": "t1_om1xwcf", "author": "/u/Independence7", "updated": "2026-05-16T01:10:59+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8kanx/hit_my_fire_number_giving_notice_on_monday/om1xwcf/", "content": "How much of it is retirement fund? How would you access it?" }, { "id": "t1_om2jiwo", "author": "/u/UtubeFrankDayTrading", "updated": "2026-05-16T03:31:41+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8kanx/hit_my_fire_number_giving_notice_on_monday/om2jiwo/", "content": "You done good. Well done. I retired at 38 and put a good amount in an irrevocable trust. It has been 10 years and loving it." }, { "id": "t1_om3pksj", "author": "/u/InwardlyNoiseless", "updated": "2026-05-16T09:26:27+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8kanx/hit_my_fire_number_giving_notice_on_monday/om3pksj/", "content": "The posts about hitting the number and feeling empty are probably from people who never actually wanted to stop working, just wanted permission to, which is a different thing entirely." }, { "id": "t1_oo686d5", "author": "/u/apierge", "updated": "2026-05-27T13:49:32+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8kanx/hit_my_fire_number_giving_notice_on_monday/oo686d5/", "content": ""...Anyway, I'm out!! ": what is the policy for your portfolio management after you pull the plug? Would you reduce the risk moving part of it on fixed income / bonds / treasury? Or will you keep your portfolio as it is?" }, { "id": "t1_oonr59e", "author": "", "updated": "2026-05-29T22:37:19+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8kanx/hit_my_fire_number_giving_notice_on_monday/oonr59e/", "content": "[deleted]" }, { "id": "t1_oonxr6g", "author": "/u/Zphr", "updated": "2026-05-29T23:13:40+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8kanx/hit_my_fire_number_giving_notice_on_monday/oonxr6g/", "content": "Rule 2/No Self-Promo/Spam - No self-promotion or spam. Please see our rules ( https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/about/rules/ ) and reach out via modmail if you have any questions or concerns." }, { "id": "t1_oonxyud", "author": "/u/Zphr", "updated": "2026-05-29T23:14:52+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8kanx/hit_my_fire_number_giving_notice_on_monday/oonxyud/", "content": "The next time I see solicitation from you will be a permanent ban." }, { "id": "t1_ol21wbw", "author": "/u/Lucifer_GodOfDeath", "updated": "2026-05-10T20:10:16+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8kanx/hit_my_fire_number_giving_notice_on_monday/ol21wbw/", "content": "Congratulations man! Happy for you! Shows a lot of dedication and effort. If you don’t mind, I can reach out to you with a few questions since I’m along the same direction. Thanks!" }, { "id": "t1_okwzti9", "author": "/u/NoisyCats", "updated": "2026-05-10T00:51:54+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8kanx/hit_my_fire_number_giving_notice_on_monday/okwzti9/", "content": "I made a million in the time it took to read this." }, { "id": "t1_okw2qyf", "author": "/u/data4u", "updated": "2026-05-09T21:30:59+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8kanx/hit_my_fire_number_giving_notice_on_monday/okw2qyf/", "content": "How do you fire on $2.5M?? Are your expenses super low? Never going to travel? No children?" }, { "id": "t1_okw4gz7", "author": "/u/Funkycornelius2", "updated": "2026-05-09T21:40:42+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8kanx/hit_my_fire_number_giving_notice_on_monday/okw4gz7/", "content": "I included expenses in the post. And $2.5M allows $45k discretionary spending on top of my average total expenses from the past 3 years. I actually travel a ton - 44 countries and 48 states so far. I'm just not into unnecessary luxury :)" }, { "id": "t1_oky6iwb", "author": "/u/spiritsarise", "updated": "2026-05-10T05:48:20+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8kanx/hit_my_fire_number_giving_notice_on_monday/oky6iwb/", "content": "Isn’t luxury always unnecessary? Just sometimes indulged. 😄" } ] }, { "source": "r/Fire top month", "id": "t3_1t5ka5n", "title": "$1M IS STILL A BIG DEAL :)", "author": "/u/ResolvePossible1129", "updated": "2026-05-06T17:48:08+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/", "content": "I’m (kinda joking… kinda not) but some of these “hit $1M today and feel nothing....still feel dead inside” posts are killing me.\n I’m 34F, a 2 years away from $1M, and I fully plan on feeling EVERYTHING when I get there! I'm very excited. I know $2M will feel even crazier.\n The average savings rate in the U.S. is like ~3–5%???, and plenty of people aren’t even investing that, its just sitting in a bank account.\n $1M is not “meh,” it’s elite! We don’t have to pretend we’re dead inside to be financially responsible. Celebrate your wins, that’s literally the point!\n That's all 😄 😄\n EDIT: I understand that 3M, 5M is the real goal for a lot of people. but 1M is still a big deal because it takes so long to get to the first M\n submitted by /u/ResolvePossible1129\n [link] [comments]", "contentHtml": "

I’m (kinda joking… kinda not) but some of these “hit $1M today and feel nothing....still feel dead inside” posts are killing me.

I’m 34F, a 2 years away from $1M, and I fully plan on feeling EVERYTHING when I get there! I'm very excited. I know $2M will feel even crazier.

The average savings rate in the U.S. is like ~3–5%???, and plenty of people aren’t even investing that, its just sitting in a bank account.

$1M is not “meh,” it’s elite! We don’t have to pretend we’re dead inside to be financially responsible. Celebrate your wins, that’s literally the point!

That's all 😄 😄

EDIT: I understand that 3M, 5M is the real goal for a lot of people. but 1M is still a big deal because it takes so long to get to the first M

submitted by /u/ResolvePossible1129
[link] [comments]", "comments": [ { "id": "t1_okakmmc", "author": "/u/Mephistopheles009", "updated": "2026-05-06T17:50:37+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okakmmc/", "content": "You should be excited!!! That’s great progress. Great grounding post" }, { "id": "t1_okalkju", "author": "/u/Friendly-Leek7633", "updated": "2026-05-06T17:54:37+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okalkju/", "content": "good for you! i think people get so caught up in comparing themselves with others who have more that they forget how incredible reaching 1M really is\n as someone who's nowhere close to that number yet, i'd definitely be celebrating hard when i hit it. there's nothing wrong with being excited about your achievements, especially something this big" }, { "id": "t1_okbnrde", "author": "/u/dusklight_allure", "updated": "2026-05-06T20:43:16+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okbnrde/", "content": "the "feel nothing" posts are just humble bragging" }, { "id": "t1_okcj6nl", "author": "/u/IHadTacosYesterday", "updated": "2026-05-06T23:20:58+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okcj6nl/", "content": "I think there is a delayed, slow release reaction to hitting new wealth milestones" }, { "id": "t1_okqb5bj", "author": "/u/DimMak1", "updated": "2026-05-08T23:13:54+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okqb5bj/", "content": "Let’s face it, most posts in FIRE are trolling, lies, and some humble bragging that’s also probably greatly embellished." }, { "id": "t1_okdjmif", "author": "/u/Im_tracer_bullet", "updated": "2026-05-07T02:47:22+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okdjmif/", "content": "I'm not so sure.\n I think it's more a function of 'nice, but I can't really do anything yet'.\n It's not that it's not a milestone, it's just that it's still nowhere near enough to walk away from work for good." }, { "id": "t1_okqcrcg", "author": "/u/BeatDense9049", "updated": "2026-05-08T23:23:16+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okqcrcg/", "content": "And that’s IF inflation doesn’t go rampant… 1 million will probably buy half as much in a few years so you need to keep doubling it just to preserve." }, { "id": "t1_okxo0b7", "author": "/u/Affectionate_Bag4716", "updated": "2026-05-10T03:28:38+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okxo0b7/", "content": "Some of us are just dead inside. I didn't feel anything at a million, but i didn't make a post about it" }, { "id": "t1_okqckob", "author": "/u/BeatDense9049", "updated": "2026-05-08T23:22:12+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okqckob/", "content": "Nah 1m is just nothing these days….. literally can’t buy a starter home in a decent area. Maybe if you have 1 million at age 20.. the ya but at 35 MEHHHH" }, { "id": "t1_okb136o", "author": "/u/warlizardfanboy", "updated": "2026-05-06T19:03:03+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okb136o/", "content": "I agree, it's selection bias we have a bunch of super savers here, and some real show offs, so what should be a huge milestone feels mid when you are in an all star game." }, { "id": "t1_okrcbd3", "author": "/u/Ember-console-0c", "updated": "2026-05-09T03:03:17+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okrcbd3/", "content": "My goal is to have my house paid off at 37 I’m 28 now.. outside of throwing so much extra to My house" }, { "id": "t1_okakrlp", "author": "/u/Aggressive_Staff_982", "updated": "2026-05-06T17:51:13+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okakrlp/", "content": "I feel the same. My FIRE number is $1.5 million and I live in socal. I can't imagine what people's expenses are like when having $1 million saved feels like nothing. It's a huge accomplishment." }, { "id": "t1_okam6tz", "author": "/u/Al_Pallll", "updated": "2026-05-06T17:57:14+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okam6tz/", "content": "I start raging when commenters in other money-related subreddits start harping about how $1-2million is nothing and you can't have a fulfilling retirement unless you're able to spend $150k annually. And that shit gets upvoted!\n Especially because you know that statistically all those people make like $60k a year and will never save enough to afford the lifestyle they claim is the "bare minimum"." }, { "id": "t1_okaselm", "author": "/u/Actuarial_type", "updated": "2026-05-06T18:24:26+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okaselm/", "content": "$5M is a nightmare, Greg. Can’t retire, doesn’t make sense to keep working. Five will drive you en poco loco, my fine feathered friend." }, { "id": "t1_okavh8y", "author": "/u/ResolvePossible1129", "updated": "2026-05-06T18:38:09+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okavh8y/", "content": "best tv show ever!" }, { "id": "t1_okbjv1z", "author": "/u/CurrentRecord1", "updated": "2026-05-06T20:25:29+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okbjv1z/", "content": "The world's tallest dwarf!" }, { "id": "t1_okpeaiy", "author": "/u/river_rambler", "updated": "2026-05-08T20:18:10+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okpeaiy/", "content": "r/GregFire" }, { "id": "t1_okb2l5x", "author": "/u/B4K5c7N", "updated": "2026-05-06T19:09:40+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okb2l5x/", "content": "$150k annual spend is now viewed as an annual vacation budget for retirement on Reddit.\n I think it’s fine to want a high-flying lifestyle, but many have really lost touch. Most of the country will never be able to reach $5 or $10 million like a lot of Bay Area techies will. Lots of commenters run in elite circles in the most expensive zip codes in the country (not simply the most expensive cities), and the people they associate with have eight, nine, ten figure net worths. That’s just not the reality for 99% of the country. Even retiring with a couple million is more than most of the country has been retiring on. You can’t bring up that argument, because then people will throw it back to you and say that people in third world countries make XYZ.\n Fact is though, I think many of the out of touch people who post don’t really think average workers exist. It’s like when discussing income statistics, and affluent commenters will say that median income numbers are false, because they say that lower earners don’t have “real jobs” and bring the numbers down." }, { "id": "t1_okbjdav", "author": "/u/Jchriddy", "updated": "2026-05-06T20:23:19+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okbjdav/", "content": "I have run into many people in my line of work who have a ton of money and simply think anyone who isn't living paycheck to paycheck must be living the same life as they are. There is no difference to them, you are either poor or you aren't poor. And they are clearly living 'modestly' on their 300k combined household income/150k yearly spend, so everyone else who isn't destitute must be doing the same thing." }, { "id": "t1_okbyh2l", "author": "/u/Ohitsworkingnow", "updated": "2026-05-06T21:32:37+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okbyh2l/", "content": "150k a year is so lame lol, there’s so many amazing lives you can live without working for 1/4 of that\n Not having to work is about the dream of spending tons of time with your kids, making music, making art, gardening, watching films, playing games, doing woodworking, cooking and baking, I mean obviously hobbies are endless but literally most of these are very inexpensive ways to spend time.\n Even traveling can be done far cheaper than just buying everything." }, { "id": "t1_okma1w5", "author": "/u/No_Cold_9195", "updated": "2026-05-08T11:23:58+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okma1w5/", "content": "I might have to object to the woodworking hobby being a very inexpensive way to spend time.\n Q: How do you become a millionaire from woodworking? A: Start off a billionaire! 😆" }, { "id": "t1_okpd0pk", "author": "/u/river_rambler", "updated": "2026-05-08T20:12:02+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okpd0pk/", "content": "Was coming here to say that. Woodworking, even if you have access to trees, still requires pretty hefty chainsaw and a chainmill and sheltered space to store the planks of wood while it dries. . . .or you can spend an arm and a leg on some nice wood to turn into something.\n Also, considering we pay $12K/year in property tax and $20K per year supporting my MIL, our entire 1/4 of the $150K "lame" budget would be gone after both of those things." }, { "id": "t1_okbx83b", "author": "/u/Rivannux", "updated": "2026-05-06T21:26:37+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okbx83b/", "content": "I pulled up US census data for CA and told my sister she’s out of touch and the median household income in CA is $100k. She said my information is wrong LOL" }, { "id": "t1_okbxb8b", "author": "/u/B4K5c7N", "updated": "2026-05-06T21:27:02+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okbxb8b/", "content": "What did she think it was lmao?" }, { "id": "t1_okbzo2k", "author": "/u/Rivannux", "updated": "2026-05-06T21:38:21+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okbzo2k/", "content": "She thinks it’s much higher. Closer to $180k for household income.\n It puts into perspective how $50k does not go very far in California, yet is the median salary." }, { "id": "t1_okd70va", "author": "/u/boatbomber", "updated": "2026-05-07T01:34:53+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okd70va/", "content": "California is a massive state. She's probably thinking about the Bay Area and assuming the rest of California is similar (which it obviously is not).\n But for San Mateo County (the strip of residential cities below San Francisco) the median actually is $185.7K and in fact below ~120K is considered low income and makes you eligible for housing assistance! The cost of living here is insane.\n https://www.smcgov.org/housing/income-limits-and-rent-payments" }, { "id": "t1_okd7xmb", "author": "/u/nickleback_official", "updated": "2026-05-07T01:40:05+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okd7xmb/", "content": "The cost of housing is the real kicker and it’s just insane in the bay." }, { "id": "t1_okcn7kt", "author": "/u/TheGoonSquad612", "updated": "2026-05-06T23:43:00+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okcn7kt/", "content": "But you’re in a fire sub, not dealing with 99% of the country or whatever the average person has. Retiring early means you likely need high income during your working years, but also means you need far more in retirement since you’re going to live off of it for longer. Comparing fire sub commentary to the average is a fools a waste of time." }, { "id": "t1_okdngqg", "author": "/u/mistressbitcoin", "updated": "2026-05-07T03:11:16+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okdngqg/", "content": "Difference between FI at 60 vs 30 is at most like 0.5% SWR, or about 30% more in assets at most.\n Its not quite as huge as people think." }, { "id": "t1_okbt577", "author": "/u/fuckmylifegoddamn", "updated": "2026-05-06T21:07:30+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okbt577/", "content": "Now imagine living in the Bay Area and working blue collar lol" }, { "id": "t1_okfhtwb", "author": "/u/Numerous-Bet-4847", "updated": "2026-05-07T11:51:49+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okfhtwb/", "content": "I couldn't spend $150k annually if I tried. My expenses are $24k a year. When you retire, you should have zero debt, a paid off home, and next to no expenses. Add in social security, for two, and that alone is $60-$70k, without even touching a pension or retirement.\n The only thing to spend money on is travel, or eating out. And by retirement, I have seen the world and most every state during my working career, so I have no interest in wasting my own money on travel.\n I live on acreage with access to a private lake. I can fish all day or sit in my woods for free." }, { "id": "t1_okawums", "author": "/u/paladin10025", "updated": "2026-05-06T18:44:14+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okawums/", "content": "The conundrum is that the people who are able to amass a few million are mostly people who earn and spend more than the statistically average people.\n It is super tough to accumulate $1M a year for $40k a year retirement when you make $60k a year. Its a lot easier if you earn $200k. But then you also need to amass much more than $1M if you want to maintain your lifestyle. My prop tax and hoa combined is almost $40k a year." }, { "id": "t1_okb4yfr", "author": "/u/HeyUKidsGetOffMyLine", "updated": "2026-05-06T19:20:16+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okb4yfr/", "content": "40k for property tax and HOA is an outrageous number. Kudos to you and a great post on perspective." }, { "id": "t1_okbbpho", "author": "/u/paladin10025", "updated": "2026-05-06T19:49:52+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okbbpho/", "content": "It does sound ridiculous and if you saw our place you would be even more outraged!! Though if prop tax and hoa were less than the price of our place would be more.\n My uncle and aunt live in a $4-$5M house and pay $1200 a year in property taxes!!" }, { "id": "t1_okbkybz", "author": "/u/Ill_Savings_8338", "updated": "2026-05-06T20:30:25+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okbkybz/", "content": "lol, wat? for an area with that low of property tax, 4-5m house must be like a 20m house elsewhere?" }, { "id": "t1_okc94ax", "author": "/u/paladin10025", "updated": "2026-05-06T22:26:33+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okc94ax/", "content": "Prop 13 palo alto house bought in early 70’s. Neighbors pay $50k a year" }, { "id": "t1_okc1746", "author": "/u/chris_atx03", "updated": "2026-05-06T21:45:50+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okc1746/", "content": "Not so crazy in TX where property taxes are fairly high.\n Of course no state income tax, but the govt is getting their revenue somewhere." }, { "id": "t1_okb9h1z", "author": "/u/PHL1365", "updated": "2026-05-06T19:40:09+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okb9h1z/", "content": "The key is to continue living as if you make 60k/year." }, { "id": "t1_okbl5bj", "author": "/u/Ill_Savings_8338", "updated": "2026-05-06T20:31:19+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okbl5bj/", "content": "How can you send your kid to (location dependent) bad public schools if you make $200k a year? I am willing to sacrifice a lot for FIRE but not by cheaping out on my children's stuff." }, { "id": "t1_okcr8ur", "author": "/u/JayRoo83", "updated": "2026-05-07T00:05:29+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okcr8ur/", "content": "If you make 200k a year, your area (statistically speaking) has properly funded public schools lol" }, { "id": "t1_okfbd2m", "author": "/u/Ill_Savings_8338", "updated": "2026-05-07T11:10:03+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okfbd2m/", "content": "I agree statistically speaking, but not the case here. Lcol, small business owner, make about 10x median for this area 😞" }, { "id": "t1_okiisvr", "author": "/u/ginandsoda", "updated": "2026-05-07T20:19:29+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okiisvr/", "content": "Get involved. Get a vote to increase the funding of your local schools." }, { "id": "t1_okbmh38", "author": "/u/PHL1365", "updated": "2026-05-06T20:37:24+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okbmh38/", "content": "Well, having kids definitely makes things more challenging. You can certainly upgrade a little bit, just don't go all the way to what you can "afford" on 200k. Otherwise, don't plan on FIRE. Just basically live within or below your means." }, { "id": "t1_okbn4hu", "author": "/u/Ill_Savings_8338", "updated": "2026-05-06T20:40:23+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okbn4hu/", "content": "I agree completely. We spend about 25% of what we earn each year, so I don't sweat it. Most people don't know what we earn so we don't get much pressure to move from our small house with lower mortgage, drive cars 10 years, we fit in pretty well." }, { "id": "t1_okbprlo", "author": "/u/PHL1365", "updated": "2026-05-06T20:52:20+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okbprlo/", "content": "I'm similar. Fortunately the wife hasn't had the urge to move up from the house we purchased 24 years ago. She spends more than I would like on upgrades, but that's still much cheaper than buying a newer/bigger place." }, { "id": "t1_okbq8fv", "author": "/u/Ill_Savings_8338", "updated": "2026-05-06T20:54:26+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okbq8fv/", "content": "I'm the opposite, I want a bigger house, or a differently laid out house, but we have planted fruit trees, bushes, play area, pool, outbuildings, and done all of the interior work ourselves (was a foreclosure), so all of those personal touches that make it feel like home would be weird if we moved at this point." }, { "id": "t1_ol3rmoh", "author": "/u/Danica66ravinescandy", "updated": "2026-05-11T02:00:46+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/ol3rmoh/", "content": "there's nothing wrong with being excited about your achievements, especially something this big" }, { "id": "t1_okbezz3", "author": "/u/AgsAreUs", "updated": "2026-05-06T20:04:03+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okbezz3/", "content": "The trick is to not let progression to $200k salary change your lifestyle." }, { "id": "t1_okbmy6a", "author": "/u/ValidateMe3", "updated": "2026-05-06T20:39:33+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okbmy6a/", "content": "$1M a year? Brother what?" }, { "id": "t1_okburqt", "author": "/u/Dazzling-Look9734", "updated": "2026-05-06T21:14:59+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okburqt/", "content": "I never made more than $65/yr ever and still was able to get to 1M by 42yrs old. 2 kids in sports too. The sacrifices required are not palatable by most. I've never had a car payment but we own our home plus 2 properties outright, and one we're paying down aggressively." }, { "id": "t1_okg650j", "author": "/u/Emergency_Beat423", "updated": "2026-05-07T14:00:29+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okg650j/", "content": "That’s incredible good for you!! This is a real fire story" }, { "id": "t1_okca28a", "author": "/u/Double-Pineapple-624", "updated": "2026-05-06T22:31:36+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okca28a/", "content": "Just out of curiosity, the discipline and financial knowledge required to do that is insane. I’m surprised you couldn’t find something better paying, is there a specific reason?" }, { "id": "t1_okcvy25", "author": "/u/Dazzling-Look9734", "updated": "2026-05-07T00:32:11+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okcvy25/", "content": "To be completely honest, I just got stuck in a 19 year rut. At one time my brother offered me a job making well over 6 figures, but it required some travel. One thing I've never compromised on is my involvement with my two boys. I've never missed a single practice, game, piano recital, etc. Also, I'm not leaving my wife who has epilepsy alone. The rut was satisfying work, but paltry 1% annual increases most years. Our taxable income has been about $37k for a long time and we make it work. About 50% income went to investments. We live in LCOL so that helps." }, { "id": "t1_okixm23", "author": "/u/paladin10025", "updated": "2026-05-07T21:28:22+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okixm23/", "content": "That is crazy impressive and to live on 50% for a family of four of a number many on here would starve on as a single person" }, { "id": "t1_okj3ynn", "author": "/u/Dazzling-Look9734", "updated": "2026-05-07T21:59:59+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okj3ynn/", "content": "We have an awesome budget grocery store here and we never eat out sans special occasions like some birthdays and anniversaries. Working from home also helps immensely. I do all of our car and home maintenance/repairs too." }, { "id": "t1_okjeuk0", "author": "/u/paladin10025", "updated": "2026-05-07T22:58:56+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okjeuk0/", "content": "I just can't even imagine your life - as I mentioned above, our prop tax +HOA itself is $40K and in my neighborhood and bubble we live modestly. I do think about how if I just redefined my expectations I could retire tomorrow.\n Are you saying your family of four lives and maybe even thrives on about $37K a year which boggles my mind or are you saying you live on on about half as in $20K?" }, { "id": "t1_okjhw6i", "author": "/u/Dazzling-Look9734", "updated": "2026-05-07T23:16:25+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okjhw6i/", "content": "I'm saying our taxable is 37k. That is after 401k, hsa and standard deduction at tax time. Household income is close to 100k with wife and I. HOAs are the devil btw. 😆" }, { "id": "t1_okapb0t", "author": "/u/Aggravating_Can_8749", "updated": "2026-05-06T18:10:46+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okapb0t/", "content": "Its mind psychology. When you have X your mind has moved on to 2X. You don't get any dopamine hit despite hitting the number. This is precisely the reason Elon feels he needs to hit 1000 billion. Once there it doesn't give the kick he was hoping to get\n That is how this goes" }, { "id": "t1_okaz0i2", "author": "/u/jchamberlin78", "updated": "2026-05-06T18:53:53+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okaz0i2/", "content": "Technically... Elon wants 10000 billion. Fucker wants to be a 10 Trillionaire" }, { "id": "t1_okbdyh1", "author": "/u/Aggravating_Can_8749", "updated": "2026-05-06T19:59:32+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okbdyh1/", "content": "But even with that he will still be miserable..." }, { "id": "t1_okb56ta", "author": "/u/jybulson", "updated": "2026-05-06T19:21:19+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okb56ta/", "content": "And he probably will be. After that comes 100 trillionare if we have solved aging by then." }, { "id": "t1_okb8tqs", "author": "/u/jchamberlin78", "updated": "2026-05-06T19:37:17+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okb8tqs/", "content": "Looking at how ragged he is looking he better start treating himself nicer." }, { "id": "t1_okb363y", "author": "/u/MinimumCommon408", "updated": "2026-05-06T19:12:14+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okb363y/", "content": "I sometimes wonder what people would spend all that money on? Assuming they have a paid off house, after 15% capital gains tax, that still leaves them with over $10,500/month. I’d personally have a difficult time spending that much" }, { "id": "t1_okblnln", "author": "/u/Ill_Savings_8338", "updated": "2026-05-06T20:33:38+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okblnln/", "content": "You dont pay capital gains on the first 49k (98k MFJ) so its even more.\n We currently spend ~ 4k on health insurance and out of pocket, 1.5k on mortgage, 1.5k on school, 1k on food/eating out, another 500 on utilities, we are at 8.5k already in a lcol area, the other 1.5k is maintenance, subscriptions, other shopping, etc, we bought our cars with cash, but that could easily replace the 1.5k mortgage for 3 cars, if you arent trying to skimp / live poor, it is very easy to hit 10k a month or more" }, { "id": "t1_okb4v09", "author": "/u/One-Positive3051", "updated": "2026-05-06T19:19:50+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okb4v09/", "content": "It’s pretty easy really. No mortgage and can spend $15k/month and not be accumulating anything luxury, no car payment or mortgage and can still seem to spend that much." }, { "id": "t1_okb6msy", "author": "/u/MinimumCommon408", "updated": "2026-05-06T19:27:49+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okb6msy/", "content": "What are you spending it on?" }, { "id": "t1_okamkbq", "author": "", "updated": "2026-05-06T17:58:49+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okamkbq/", "content": "[deleted]" }, { "id": "t1_okanwy1", "author": "/u/Al_Pallll", "updated": "2026-05-06T18:04:40+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okanwy1/", "content": "My theory is that they're desperately trying to justify their spending habits and convince themselves that retirement is completely out-of-reach. If a $1.5million retirement is possible, they're forced to reckon with the fact that they could have achieved it but prioritized mindless consumerism instead." }, { "id": "t1_okaq0ux", "author": "/u/Leather_Addition2605", "updated": "2026-05-06T18:13:57+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okaq0ux/", "content": "200k per year is my goal because that would mean after taking into account no longer contributing to investments or my pension, and adding in healthcare costs, it will put me at the same cash flow I have now. I don’t want to have to cut back in retirement. I could, but I don’t want to. And I’m lucky in that my pension will do a lot of heavy lifting to provide that number.\n That being said, 1M is still a huge deal and should be celebrated. I know I did." }, { "id": "t1_okaqbh1", "author": "/u/Al_Pallll", "updated": "2026-05-06T18:15:15+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okaqbh1/", "content": "Yeah nothing wrong with wanting a high annual spend. The issue is when people pretend it's a requirement for a fulfilling life and that those living on $80k a year are living in squalor or something haha" }, { "id": "t1_okaqi0d", "author": "/u/ResolvePossible1129", "updated": "2026-05-06T18:16:03+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okaqi0d/", "content": "Yes, well said" }, { "id": "t1_okarrlc", "author": "/u/Leather_Addition2605", "updated": "2026-05-06T18:21:37+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okarrlc/", "content": "Very true. And everyone’s situation is different along with their goals.\n I know if I work until 59, my pension will cover 140k, COLA adjusted. That doesn’t seem so bad to me age wise. I can do it. If I only need to cover 60k a year from investments, it should allow me to continue to grow the principal because of the low withdrawal rate, allowing me to leave as much as possible to my kid. That’s an important goal for me that I put a high priority on.\n If I didn’t have a kid, I’d take a 52k pension at 50 as soon as I was eligible, move to a LCOL area and chill." }, { "id": "t1_okao6a1", "author": "/u/1dirtbiker", "updated": "2026-05-06T18:05:48+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okao6a1/", "content": "One thing to keep in mind if you don't have long term care insurance is the cost of a nursing facility if you find yourself in that situation. I want to be able to self fund without drawing down my wealth, for both my wife and I. Average nursing home costs are about $120K annually per person. I hope to never have to be in one, but it is always a concern of mine in the back of my mind. I do work in healthcare though, so I see a lot of it." }, { "id": "t1_okaotsl", "author": "/u/ResolvePossible1129", "updated": "2026-05-06T18:08:40+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okaotsl/", "content": "I just watched my Grandpa go into a nursing home at 99 for 3 weeks (we pulled him out because it was terrible even though it was top in the state) and then hospice, I worry about this a lot and have no idea how to plan for it. it was ungodly expensive" }, { "id": "t1_okapy4d", "author": "/u/S1159P", "updated": "2026-05-06T18:13:36+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okapy4d/", "content": "My frugal-living aged parents currently have a $350K annual burn rate because we're paying for in-home care in a VHCOL area rather than moving them to assisted living. Being really old is terrifying. Fortunately, they never actually sold anything from their investment account - they've been living off dividends - so they've got enough buffer to stay at home like this for years. But Lord, it's expensive." }, { "id": "t1_okaqdmq", "author": "/u/ResolvePossible1129", "updated": "2026-05-06T18:15:31+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okaqdmq/", "content": "Ugh, I feel for you. So sorry! It's a disgusting system." }, { "id": "t1_okaq7pg", "author": "/u/1dirtbiker", "updated": "2026-05-06T18:14:48+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okaq7pg/", "content": "The best way to plan for it is to save a large enough nest egg that you can afford to self fund. I'm not saying this is the most practical way for most, but it's the best way." }, { "id": "t1_okbdl96", "author": "/u/UniqueIndividual3579", "updated": "2026-05-06T19:57:58+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okbdl96/", "content": "150k on what? My house and car are paid off. Even vacations might be 15k per year. I figure between 50k - 80k per year, and likely closer to 50k." }, { "id": "t1_okcir5o", "author": "/u/Fishb20", "updated": "2026-05-06T23:18:41+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okcir5o/", "content": "Drives me crazy sometimes. There was a post I saw about a year ago on this sub asking for advice to avoid lifestyle inflation and the top comment recommended multiple vacations in the US a year and only going on Japan trips every other year." }, { "id": "t1_okd4dfb", "author": "/u/Gloomy_Session_3875", "updated": "2026-05-07T01:19:46+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okd4dfb/", "content": "I don't want to have a large carbon footprint in retirement either. With my regular hobbies (running, reading, gardening) that should be easy. That automatically means that I won't spend $150k per year either. $60k/year are our basic expenses, and vacations or large purchases come on top of that." }, { "id": "t1_okt3hj2", "author": "/u/Master_Hand5590", "updated": "2026-05-09T11:53:47+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okt3hj2/", "content": "If you don't have a house and still renting. It can feel like nothing because having 1M invested does not change your life at all for the time being. It is a lot but it also means you still have to go to your shitty job every day for another 10-15years if the market is kind" }, { "id": "t1_oku6otz", "author": "", "updated": "2026-05-09T15:35:04+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/oku6otz/", "content": "[deleted]" }, { "id": "t1_okucwbn", "author": "/u/Master_Hand5590", "updated": "2026-05-09T16:06:16+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okucwbn/", "content": "I see, yeah you are right then. I agree." }, { "id": "t1_old2uxv", "author": "/u/Strazdas1", "updated": "2026-05-12T12:52:22+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/old2uxv/", "content": "If they invest half of their income and do so consistently for 30 years they could in fact end up retiring at that income. But thats a lot of grinding." }, { "id": "t1_okgxvfu", "author": "/u/dennis77", "updated": "2026-05-07T16:04:56+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okgxvfu/", "content": "But you truly can't, not in the US. That's the reason I'm thinking about expat fire, at least for the first couple years to minimize the costs while young.\n We're 33, our healthcare cost for a catastrophic plan is 700 a month here in Colorado. Decent 1 bedroom apartment is 2k.\n That's 2.7k just for shelter and insurance. It's not possible to live comfortably on 1.3k a month for a family of 2. You need to buy food, hopefully travel a little and maybe go eat out at least once a month.\n And I'm not even including things like cell phone cost which 30 bucks each, on a prepaid plan, internet $60, electricity $60, etc." }, { "id": "t1_okapjgb", "author": "/u/Original-Poet1825", "updated": "2026-05-06T18:11:48+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okapjgb/", "content": "Is that 1.5M outside of your main residence? I don’t mean to shit in you by any means, but living in socal on 4% (60k a year?) sounds hard if you account for health emergencies and all that" }, { "id": "t1_okb2x3o", "author": "/u/Aggressive_Staff_982", "updated": "2026-05-06T19:11:07+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okb2x3o/", "content": "I have a home in socal that's paid off. With property tax, HOA, utilities, and other essentials like pet costs, food, transport, entertainment/activities and healthcare costs factored in I am at roughly $55k a year. That being said my home and car are paid off, I have no debt, and I dont need much to be fulfilled. I have considered bumping it up to $70k or $80k so I can travel but I'm very much a go camping and be in nature vs see the sights (after traveling a bit for my job). I'm a fed employee now and will get a pension and health insurance after retirement. The $1.5 million is just in retirement accounts (Roth, brokerage, TSP) and does not include an emergency fund for health expenses and such." }, { "id": "t1_okb5wxo", "author": "/u/ALifetimeOfLearning", "updated": "2026-05-06T19:24:35+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okb5wxo/", "content": "That's the key. Paid off house and no major debts. Nice work.\n I'm prob near you in more central-socal, and housing is by far the main major expense (as it is in almost all of CA). The lucky of us who can pay it off near retirement can retire on a smaller nest egg for sure! So it's totally believable." }, { "id": "t1_okbfpft", "author": "/u/Aggressive_Staff_982", "updated": "2026-05-06T20:07:07+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okbfpft/", "content": "For sure. The pension and healthcare after retirement is what's also bolstering my FIRE plans. If I didn't have that I'd be aiming for a higher number." }, { "id": "t1_okdi0ii", "author": "/u/lseraehwcaism", "updated": "2026-05-07T02:37:50+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okdi0ii/", "content": "You mentioned a mortgage yet you also said your house is paid off?" }, { "id": "t1_okditl1", "author": "/u/Aggressive_Staff_982", "updated": "2026-05-07T02:42:36+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okditl1/", "content": "Whoops I meant property tax. Edited the comment to reflect that." }, { "id": "t1_okfm0br", "author": "/u/lseraehwcaism", "updated": "2026-05-07T12:16:36+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okfm0br/", "content": "I figured it was something like that." }, { "id": "t1_okasfgt", "author": "/u/ShowdownValue", "updated": "2026-05-06T18:24:32+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okasfgt/", "content": "Had the same thought. SoCal is expensive!" }, { "id": "t1_okb0kyk", "author": "/u/soggy_pants", "updated": "2026-05-06T19:00:47+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okb0kyk/", "content": "Seems made up haha. If in most of socal $1M houses are pretty damn common, but even at $500k mortgage you're at $3k/month / $36k per year. Add property taxes and $1M is required just for home monthly expense at SWR.\n If we're saying living in the sticks in socal or getting housing for free then I understand the counter argument... But there's a reason many feel $1M milestone hits different in 2026 vs 1996 lol. Most of us don't adjust our anchors for inflation and insane housing markets." }, { "id": "t1_okb2972", "author": "/u/B4K5c7N", "updated": "2026-05-06T19:08:11+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okb2972/", "content": "I think many of these people who say they feel nothing, generally run in pretty elite circles in the Bay Area or Manhattan. They usually work in tech, big law, or finance. They associate with people worth eight, nine, or even ten figures. So to them, they feel inadequate in comparison once they hit $1 mil. It seems that on Reddit, many are hitting that early 30s (or claim to), so people don’t feel as special anymore if they reach seven figures.\n People definitely need a huge reality check though. What most people on these subs are saving in a year, is more than the median income for the country." }, { "id": "t1_okbmeul", "author": "/u/Ill_Savings_8338", "updated": "2026-05-06T20:37:07+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okbmeul/", "content": "I felt nothing at 1 and at 5, it is weird but if you don't live and work around people with $$, it doesnt mean much." }, { "id": "t1_ol4trd5", "author": "/u/Hannahwillowslayou", "updated": "2026-05-11T06:44:06+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/ol4trd5/", "content": "Comparing fire sub commentary to the average is a fools a waste of time." }, { "id": "t1_okaltkw", "author": "/u/ResolvePossible1129", "updated": "2026-05-06T17:55:40+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okaltkw/", "content": "For me its a weird feeling, like I think I'm used to living fairly frugally all my life, I don't really buy a lot of stuff, so its just second nature. The "work" doesn't feel like anything. I do travel a lot, so that's the only challenge I come across, like ohhhh i want to take this vacation but I want to invest this amount?? Meh, no. I always take the vacation, I could have reached $1M a couple years back but life is too short." }, { "id": "t1_okao5pb", "author": "/u/GotchurNose", "updated": "2026-05-06T18:05:44+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okao5pb/", "content": "Is that your financial independence number or early retirement number? Just curious." }, { "id": "t1_okapcj9", "author": "/u/ResolvePossible1129", "updated": "2026-05-06T18:10:57+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okapcj9/", "content": "My number is around 3M, although it keeps changing." }, { "id": "t1_okbmabw", "author": "/u/Ill_Savings_8338", "updated": "2026-05-06T20:36:33+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okbmabw/", "content": "Smart to update based on inflation/desired lifestyle. 3m in 10 years will be 4m just from inflation most likely." }, { "id": "t1_okjh26g", "author": "/u/Cunorix", "updated": "2026-05-07T23:11:23+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okjh26g/", "content": "I agree and dont agree. The cost of living in general DOES goes up. But the payment you make to a mortgage over time (as one example) beats inflation if you have a low rate.\n I think in general people are fixated on a specific number (like 2 mil) and think they are just going to drain/ride that down forever. Never earning a dollar ever again. That's SO unrealistic.\n Secondly, I really don't think a lot of people in this sub actually understand the point of FI and get too focused on RE. FI is simple. Save early, cut expenses, and most importantly, building a baseline.\n This baseline is always forgotten. Life style creep right?\n I love the OPs post but thinking you need 5 mil in 20/30 years to account for 2 mil...really doesn't factor in compounding, your frugality, locked in rates, etc.\n It was an eye opener for more recently. Even if I spent 2-3k more with what I have now I can coast for 20 years, reallocate as necessary, etc.\n This whole movement needs a reality check. Retiring early is about knowing your limits and budgeting when you have a certain amount. Coast FIRE means if nothing happens I'll be ok IF everything that has happened continues to.\n Financial independence is understanding where you are at, what you have, and what you can make forever.\n Having 5 mil for 30 years means you can spend 14k+ a month. That seems problematic to me. Even with kids and an expensive mortgage -- that's likely less than .1% of the population now?\n Maybe 1-2% in the future?" }, { "id": "t1_okgwqod", "author": "/u/dennis77", "updated": "2026-05-07T15:59:56+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okgwqod/", "content": "I'm at 1.3M, 33M with wife and no kids, and I'm really curiois how you manage to make 1.5M manageable in SoCal?" }, { "id": "t1_okgyg7v", "author": "/u/Aggressive_Staff_982", "updated": "2026-05-07T16:07:30+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okgyg7v/", "content": "I have a paid off house, car, and no debt. My partner and I have a frugal lifestyle and we love spending time outdoors and camping, which cuts our vacation spending drastically. I'm a fed employee and will have a pension and healthcare after retirement. The $1.5 million doesnt include my emergency savings for health issues or home costs. And it doesn't include the pension. If I didn't have a pension, health insurance after retirement, and a paid off home, my FIRE number will be much higher." }, { "id": "t1_okgz7p3", "author": "/u/dennis77", "updated": "2026-05-07T16:10:53+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okgz7p3/", "content": "Yeah, see, that's the thing though. Having paid off house, pension and a health insurance after retirement makes it significantly easier to live on 1.5M in southern California 😅" }, { "id": "t1_okji5bd", "author": "/u/Cunorix", "updated": "2026-05-07T23:17:57+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okji5bd/", "content": "It does! But 5 mil without a strong foundation and how to use it won't get you much farther. ;) numbers are numbers.\n The plan is everything. A lot of people come to this sub with outrageous numbers and no evidence of any financial maturity\n Having a paid off house, a pension and guaranteed health insurance means THEY planned for it and made sure it would happen. That's financial independence. Not some dollar in the bank." }, { "id": "t1_okjzwsa", "author": "/u/dennis77", "updated": "2026-05-08T01:09:20+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okjzwsa/", "content": "The entire point of this post was the annoyance about people claiming that 1M is not enough.\n And here we're, moving the goalposts to 1.5M with a fully paid off house, health insurance and pension OR 5M with a plan.\n The point is, 1M is not enough in many desirable areas in the US" }, { "id": "t1_okkhwej", "author": "/u/Cunorix", "updated": "2026-05-08T03:02:23+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okkhwej/", "content": "I agree that the point of the post was "I have 1 mil and it's not enough" and saying how ridiculous that is. The person you responded to wasn't moving the goal posts? Or how you interpret that equal to 5mil?\n The point I'm making is exactly who you responded to made. Plan for the future accordingly. The number is irrelevant. A part of ones plan ISNT living in socal.\n Edit: Nor is it having 5 mil in retirement accounts. Notice they said they have 1.5 + equity + a pension/healthcare + an emergency fund? That's planned for. They know how to build financial independence.\n We need to stop chasing numbers or deflecting a simple fact it's how you use your money. This includes where you choose to live. 1 mil for the majority of people is game changing.\n I'm sure you can agree on that." }, { "id": "t1_okan8a8", "author": "/u/PrestigiousShift134", "updated": "2026-05-06T18:01:40+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okan8a8/", "content": "Damn, I live in West LA with 3.3M and cannot imagine retiring." }, { "id": "t1_okdhnvy", "author": "/u/lseraehwcaism", "updated": "2026-05-07T02:35:43+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okdhnvy/", "content": "If your FIRE number is $1.5 million, you’re already 67% of the way there if you managed to save up $1 million. If you’re maxing out your 401k and IRA, you could realistically retire in 3-5 years depending on timing.\n My number used to be $2 million with a paid off house. $1 million would have been the halfway point. It would have been a HUGE milestone. However, by the time I hit $1 million, I changed my SWR from 4% to 3.25%, increased the amount of luxury spending and life insurance, and my FIRE number slowly increased to $3.7 million.\n 4% just seems too aggressive for a 40-50 year retirement. Having two daughters and the advancement of AI, I worry about their futures, so I want to be able to help them and leave them enough to retire whether they are successful in their careers or not." }, { "id": "t1_okt31ss", "author": "/u/Catchphrase9724", "updated": "2026-05-09T11:50:46+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okt31ss/", "content": "Some of us actually just don’t know what we need or want so we overshoot. My current expenses are less than $12K a year at 20 y/o but I’m saving for $4M by 60. My excuse is I’ve only been in the military so I dont really know how expensive healthcare is personally or how much more groceries are at Walmart vs the commissary and don’t want to be in for a rude awakening if as a civilian if I can’t get a job with a similar salary and savings rate." }, { "id": "t1_okarn49", "author": "/u/Mitoria", "updated": "2026-05-06T18:21:04+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okarn49/", "content": "Probably high expenses like mortgage, healthcare or credit card debt." }, { "id": "t1_okb1eki", "author": "/u/Aggressive_Staff_982", "updated": "2026-05-06T19:04:28+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okb1eki/", "content": "Mortgage and healthcare I get. Especially healthcare costs." }, { "id": "t1_okan50v", "author": "/u/mth413", "updated": "2026-05-06T18:01:17+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okan50v/", "content": "My husband and I just hit $1mill todaaaay. Idk I’m freaking stokkkedddd cause we didn’t come from much." }, { "id": "t1_okanuu5", "author": "/u/ResolvePossible1129", "updated": "2026-05-06T18:04:25+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okanuu5/", "content": "YESSSSSSSS!" }, { "id": "t1_okat9cl", "author": "/u/Op_ivy1", "updated": "2026-05-06T18:28:16+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okat9cl/", "content": "Congrats!! 🍾\n $1M is an amazing feeling, I have no idea how people don’t get pumped about that." }, { "id": "t1_okw0opp", "author": "/u/DKtwilight", "updated": "2026-05-09T21:19:38+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okw0opp/", "content": "No I was super pumped when it was still fresh. I think it’s just Hedonic adaptation doing its thing. I’m still so much better off now than before. You can’t put a price on the freedom it brings you. But for the most part that initial excitement has worn off and this is just the next level of life" }, { "id": "t1_okwf3rh", "author": "/u/Op_ivy1", "updated": "2026-05-09T22:43:00+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okwf3rh/", "content": "Yep our humans brains are just kinda shitty that way after a while." }, { "id": "t1_okbmob4", "author": "/u/Ill_Savings_8338", "updated": "2026-05-06T20:38:19+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okbmob4/", "content": "It is just numbers on a screen, I was more stoked at 50k in savings 10 years ago than i am about 5m now" }, { "id": "t1_okdjcfv", "author": "/u/Op_ivy1", "updated": "2026-05-07T02:45:41+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okdjcfv/", "content": "When you’re broke, $50k is life changing. When you had $4.95M and now you have $5M, not much has changed.\n But $1M is a big milestone psychologically." }, { "id": "t1_okl4htv", "author": "/u/thatguykeith", "updated": "2026-05-08T05:49:55+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okl4htv/", "content": "Also grounding to hear. Just going to try and follow in those footsteps." }, { "id": "t1_okas2sg", "author": "/u/Baskema", "updated": "2026-05-06T18:22:59+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okas2sg/", "content": "Ahhh congrats!!!!" }, { "id": "t1_okapyqv", "author": "/u/ScottyMcScot", "updated": "2026-05-06T18:13:41+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okapyqv/", "content": "Nice!" }, { "id": "t1_okb0llb", "author": "/u/Apprehensive-Ad-7525", "updated": "2026-05-06T19:00:52+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okb0llb/", "content": "Congrats ❤️" }, { "id": "t1_okbvyoq", "author": "/u/Successful_Hold_9048", "updated": "2026-05-06T21:20:37+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okbvyoq/", "content": "Proud of you!" }, { "id": "t1_okd1xh4", "author": "/u/Professional_Eye_990", "updated": "2026-05-07T01:05:52+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okd1xh4/", "content": "Wow big YAY!!! Congrats!!! 🎉🎉🎉" }, { "id": "t1_okofer8", "author": "/u/HillSooner", "updated": "2026-05-08T17:34:59+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okofer8/", "content": "I could hit it today for my retirement accounts. A part of me wants to sell everything because I am scared it will fall and take years to get back there.\n I know I can't do that but something about that number makes me want to." }, { "id": "t1_oldwe7n", "author": "/u/SingleVariation1403", "updated": "2026-05-12T15:12:58+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/oldwe7n/", "content": "I just saw I hit 1 this week too!! It’s not life changing but definitely a proud moment :) congrats!!!" }, { "id": "t1_ole7bau", "author": "/u/mth413", "updated": "2026-05-12T16:00:51+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/ole7bau/", "content": "Congratulations!!!!!!!!\n And same. We have a far way to go but I’m just happy to cross a milestone." }, { "id": "t1_okamnhv", "author": "/u/Imaginary_Victory253", "updated": "2026-05-06T17:59:11+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okamnhv/", "content": "I am 34M at $100k-$200k. If I hit $1M then I will be the second richest person that I grew up with... We aspire to have $5M but frankly $1M is already more than my wife expected when she married my broke ass lol" }, { "id": "t1_okarzfe", "author": "/u/Baskema", "updated": "2026-05-06T18:22:34+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okarzfe/", "content": "Ahhhhhhh congrats to you!!! Legit I’m not far off- I went from being a homeless teen to about 500k invested assets- it’s been a hard grind but well worth it!" }, { "id": "t1_okb1x25", "author": "/u/Imaginary_Victory253", "updated": "2026-05-06T19:06:42+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okb1x25/", "content": "We are very blessed, that's for sure. You certainly seem to have the bigger accolade. Congrats! :) Going from nothing to something REALLY shakes up your world perspective and almost always feels surreal." }, { "id": "t1_okb779x", "author": "/u/Baskema", "updated": "2026-05-06T19:30:22+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okb779x/", "content": "Absolutely!!!!! And it’s not about how far one person had to get- but it’s about what you do with what you’re given. It may be modest to some but to people like you and me- it’s everything!!! Congrats to you!!! I have faith you’ll get to your 5M! And even if you don’t I know you’ll still appreciate all the progress you made!" }, { "id": "t1_okbnhzj", "author": "/u/dusklight_allure", "updated": "2026-05-06T20:42:05+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okbnhzj/", "content": "more than my wife expected from my broke ass is the most wholesome thing here" }, { "id": "t1_okfp0vf", "author": "/u/Stags304", "updated": "2026-05-07T12:33:30+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okfp0vf/", "content": "Hey right there with you (32M, $200k). I’m already the richest person in my immediate family. I love seeing people our age who don’t already have a million commenting. It reminds me that I’m probably not as far behind as I feel." }, { "id": "t1_okg0rbx", "author": "/u/Imaginary_Victory253", "updated": "2026-05-07T13:34:28+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okg0rbx/", "content": "My wife and I go on walks, and the most important thing is that we enjoy our choice. FIRE saving strats healed a lot of bad habits from our 20's. We are miles ahead of where would have been if we shrugged the future off because we couldn't be first place." }, { "id": "t1_okasvsz", "author": "/u/Terrible-Zebra-5299", "updated": "2026-05-06T18:26:34+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okasvsz/", "content": "Robert Pirsig, who wrote Zen and the Art of Motorcycle Maintenance (amazing book, by the way), has a quote that I have at my desk: “The only Zen you find on tops of mountains is the Zen you bring there.”\n I think many people are under the impression that reaching a milestone like $1M in net worth will make us feel different or fundamentally change something about ourselves or our lives. The truth is, you're still you, but with more money- but if you were miserable before, you'll probably be miserable after.\n $1M is significant, and it can "buy" you a lot of the things we're all seeking, like freedom, security, and peace of mind. But when you're in the grinding and accumulating phase of life, it can be hard to take a step back to appreciate how far you've come." }, { "id": "t1_okbc0tk", "author": "/u/Gorgenapper", "updated": "2026-05-06T19:51:14+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okbc0tk/", "content": "Similarly, in Morgan Housel's book "The Psychology of Money", he says "When most people say they want to be a millionaire, what they might actually mean is “I'd like to spend a million dollars.”\n If you spend the million, you're no longer a millionaire. But if you accumulate that first million through your own work and don't spend it upon hitting the goal, then you were never going to spend it frivolously anyway ... unlike people who got $1m as a windfall." }, { "id": "t1_okersh2", "author": "/u/Hairless_Gash", "updated": "2026-05-07T08:30:11+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okersh2/", "content": "Those are the same people who say ' If I had a million dollars I wouldn't work about anything'. Because they're ready to spend the money asap , most of us who get here are trying not to spend it" }, { "id": "t1_okjhh9d", "author": "/u/Euphoric-Advance8995", "updated": "2026-05-07T23:13:56+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okjhh9d/", "content": "“If you’re sad now, you might still feel sad there” - Adam Sandler playing an Italian vacation package salesman on SNL, not as elegant but equally applicable\n https://youtu.be/TbwlC2B-BIg?si=jJgR-GC5HT85kPIK" }, { "id": "t1_okcmma4", "author": "/u/grateful-xoxo", "updated": "2026-05-06T23:39:48+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okcmma4/", "content": "Love the Zen quote" }, { "id": "t1_okcq4oo", "author": "/u/Sometimes_I_Do_That", "updated": "2026-05-06T23:59:08+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okcq4oo/", "content": "Same here,.. and it's soo true." }, { "id": "t1_okvb5i4", "author": "/u/Woberwob", "updated": "2026-05-09T19:00:04+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okvb5i4/", "content": "Great quote and thought. I know a lot of people who have money but simply have forgotten how to enjoy that money along their journey." }, { "id": "t1_okal72a", "author": "/u/MoneyIsTheRootOfFun", "updated": "2026-05-06T17:53:02+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okal72a/", "content": "I just hit 2 mil net worth this month, and it feels pretty good. But it also doesn’t really feel too real. The markets are up so far I’m not expecting the net worth to stick for long. lol" }, { "id": "t1_okaqof2", "author": "", "updated": "2026-05-06T18:16:51+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okaqof2/", "content": "[deleted]" }, { "id": "t1_okatpgr", "author": "/u/20-20beachboy", "updated": "2026-05-06T18:30:16+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okatpgr/", "content": "Inflation is going to really rise if they drop rates. Yeah the market goes up dollar wise but your dollars are worth less." }, { "id": "t1_okch7fd", "author": "/u/kayGrim", "updated": "2026-05-06T23:10:14+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okch7fd/", "content": "This is why being in the market is so important though. Stock prices will correct for inflation to some degree, but bonds and cash sure don't." }, { "id": "t1_okauhxv", "author": "/u/dhsoxfan", "updated": "2026-05-06T18:33:47+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okauhxv/", "content": "Agreed. I still think stagflation is in our short to midterm future. To me that means the gains of the stock market being offset by the rising cost of goods. Just today I saw a headline that the national average price of gasoline is up 50% from the start of the Iran war. It is only logical for this price spike to trickle down to costlier food and goods (and thereby everything)." }, { "id": "t1_okaw9le", "author": "/u/chcampb", "updated": "2026-05-06T18:41:38+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okaw9le/", "content": "This is the issue\n It's a bit of a stick (as in, carrot and stick) situation.\n If people pull out of the market and hold cash due to insecurity, the fed will tank the rate, printing a bunch of money, and your cash evaporates.\n They will do this to protect the markets at all costs. It's why he tried to get rid of Powell and install a stooge.\n It's less about "let's use monetary policy to stabilize the markets" and more about "Let's use monetary policy as a cudgel against people who bet against me personally."\n I'm not saying that in a political sort of way, I'm saying it in the same factual manner as with like, Intel, which if you were paying attention was absolutely going to 5x based on the way the situation was manipulated." }, { "id": "t1_okam1fu", "author": "/u/ResolvePossible1129", "updated": "2026-05-06T17:56:35+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okam1fu/", "content": "That's amazing! Congrats!!" }, { "id": "t1_okasmgh", "author": "/u/MoneyIsTheRootOfFun", "updated": "2026-05-06T18:25:24+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okasmgh/", "content": "Thanks!" }, { "id": "t1_okun4lv", "author": "/u/berry-7714", "updated": "2026-05-09T16:58:28+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okun4lv/", "content": "Its a good time to derisk, also many are up big in short term gains, need to account for taxes" }, { "id": "t1_okw0yc2", "author": "/u/DKtwilight", "updated": "2026-05-09T21:21:06+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okw0yc2/", "content": "That’s a healthy and realistic mindset" }, { "id": "t1_okamhaa", "author": "/u/OnlyThePhantomKnows", "updated": "2026-05-06T17:58:27+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okamhaa/", "content": "Something that people in this sub tend to forget.\n 1.8M TOTAL assets (including home equity) puts you in the top 10% of the US (this was personally shocking when I googled the info up)\n 3M in total assets is top 3%.\n I thought 10M was the 10% line and that 1-2M was the 20% line." }, { "id": "t1_okan19a", "author": "/u/ResolvePossible1129", "updated": "2026-05-06T18:00:50+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okan19a/", "content": "I was going to put stats like this in the post, but I was lazy. Thank you for commenting, it really is a huge deal when you compare yourself to the entire US population." }, { "id": "t1_okap2jv", "author": "/u/Turbulent-Dance6220", "updated": "2026-05-06T18:09:44+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okap2jv/", "content": "And then compared to the world really puts it in perspective." }, { "id": "t1_okaybtt", "author": "/u/OnlyThePhantomKnows", "updated": "2026-05-06T18:50:50+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okaybtt/", "content": "The world is different.\n One of the struggles for US fire is health care. In Italy, you walk in get your treatment and walk out. No charge. Former coworker was shocked by having to pay for insurance and medical care. We as FIRE people, regularly are looking at 2K+/month for health care. That's an extra 600K in assets required. Average house in the US is 400K. In Italy it is more like 200K. (Yes location matters in both nations) Again, you need less assets to acquire a home.\n Places that are common targets in r/ExpatFIRE having even cheaper housing.\n Cost of Living is so wildly different in places like Thailand within the nation that it is hard to judge. Food is normally a lot cheaper, things like computers tend to be way more expensive. So I won't even bring in those nations.\n In Italy, you'd need 800K less (house paid off and healthcare) to retire. House+2.5M seems to be the common target here. (call it 3M). That same agenda is ~2M.\n Using Italy because it is a European nation AND is a lovely place to retire to. Plus I have real world stats from a former coworker on healthcare." }, { "id": "t1_okasy2r", "author": "/u/Actuarial_type", "updated": "2026-05-06T18:26:51+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okasy2r/", "content": "And that is probably skewed towards older people vs folks on a FIRE journey, many people here under age 40." }, { "id": "t1_okb3r3x", "author": "/u/B4K5c7N", "updated": "2026-05-06T19:14:50+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okb3r3x/", "content": "I think this sub and Reddit in general lives in super expensive bubbles (Bay Area, NYC, etc) among the richest zip codes, and don’t know anyone other than their bi-weekly housekeeper that makes less than six figures a year. From what I read on this site, it seems like most and their peer groups are reaching seven figures in net worth by late 20s/early 30s. It’s just a different reality from most of the country. I think uber-successful people flock to Reddit (people who were within the top 5% of their classes growing up, and now make at least a top 5% income).\n But yeah, what most on here save in a year, is even more than the median income.\n What I find interesting, is so many talk about how the wealthy are greedy, but no one talks about greed when it comes to thinking no less than like $5 million is enough when discussing retirement." }, { "id": "t1_okb2dbh", "author": "", "updated": "2026-05-06T19:08:42+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okb2dbh/", "content": "1 mil brokerage is top 3% ish" }, { "id": "t1_okat6z6", "author": "/u/Grewhit", "updated": "2026-05-06T18:27:59+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okat6z6/", "content": "To be fair, comparing to others isn't really helpful or meaningful.\n I suspect one of the reasons people don't feel the elation they expect is because money these days is just a number on a screen that constantly goes up and down.\n I think the real benefits of flexibility and choice take longer to sink in." }, { "id": "t1_okatx7j", "author": "/u/ResolvePossible1129", "updated": "2026-05-06T18:31:13+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okatx7j/", "content": "Yes, its not really the number for me, flexibility and more freedom. More opportunity to live my life the way i want too" }, { "id": "t1_okb3r8z", "author": "/u/Difficult-Cod7886", "updated": "2026-05-06T19:14:51+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okb3r8z/", "content": "Agree, I read that only 8% of US households have 1 million in investments. Not including home equity" }, { "id": "t1_okcytx6", "author": "/u/Economist_hat", "updated": "2026-05-07T00:48:24+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okcytx6/", "content": "3m is 93rd percentilw\n https://imgur.com/a/VqzS9iB" }, { "id": "t1_okmr2dd", "author": "/u/guuhvffffg", "updated": "2026-05-08T13:00:53+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okmr2dd/", "content": "Total assets, not NW? So someone in that 1.8 may have a NW substantially under that?" }, { "id": "t1_okavywr", "author": "/u/Fit-Raise7179", "updated": "2026-05-06T18:40:19+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okavywr/", "content": "On the other hand, $3M is the 90th percentile of household net worth at standard retirement age (66 - 69 y.o.). $10M is the 97th percentile at standard retirement age. 1M is the 72nd percentile at standard retirement age, so your intuition may be right.\n A lot of people in the US achieve a pretty massive nut during the course of a working career.\n If you live in a high earnings place, surrounded by high achieving people, especially married household, a very significant percentage will be loaded by the end of their careers." }, { "id": "t1_okb0e9h", "author": "/u/OnlyThePhantomKnows", "updated": "2026-05-06T18:59:57+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okb0e9h/", "content": "My "intuition" was based on stats from US gov sites 2024 data. Its not intuition, its straight data.\n As I mentioned in another post (where I used this data), 1.8M is not that insane. Buy a house at 30, the appreciation will have doubled it (or more depends on area). Save 15% (401K including employer match) with a 60K salary (below the US average of 83K so your earnings will drift to average [inflation] but not exceed by much) and you will end up at 65 in that upper 10%.\n My granddaughter's father is one of these "honest working man" types. My advice: Make sure you save 15% to your TSP (you can include the match) and you will have a decent retirement. [Works in a naval shipyard]\n Now he gets a bit of a cheat over the average American. I am covering my granddaughter's education. As my mom did for the younger generation. As my grandfather did for us." }, { "id": "t1_okb4fa0", "author": "/u/B4K5c7N", "updated": "2026-05-06T19:17:52+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okb4fa0/", "content": "I think Reddit overestimates the amount of wealthy people in VHCOL areas though. Yes, if you are living in the most exclusive “zip codes” most will have a large amount of $$$. But in general, most people in SF, Boston, LA, NYC are not worth many millions, believe it or not." }, { "id": "t1_okgr2ko", "author": "/u/Fit-Raise7179", "updated": "2026-05-07T15:35:20+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okgr2ko/", "content": "I think we can pretty safely infer that a $1M net worth at standard retirement age in those cities would be middle class/lower middle class.\n The survey of consumer finances by the federal reserve, which is basically the bible on us household net worth data, doesn't give state-level cross tabs, but we know at a national level 28% of households in the 65-69 year old bracket are millionaires. And we know that incomes, discretionary income, savings rates in those places signifantly exceed national rates. We can safely assume the number of standard retirement age millionaires similarly far exceeds national rates." }, { "id": "t1_okali38", "author": "/u/massakk", "updated": "2026-05-06T17:54:19+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okali38/", "content": "I imagine people like fire when they don't like their work. So they are a bit miserable to begin with, eventually you become more detached I guess.\n I was excited when I reached 600k enough for lean fire. But I am still working, yet somehow got detached from the numbers, I am at 800k. Not sure what to do." }, { "id": "t1_okdkmqs", "author": "/u/Im_tracer_bullet", "updated": "2026-05-07T02:53:24+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okdkmqs/", "content": "You're on it.\n The milestone number is great, but I still have to work, so it just doesn't feel like that big of a deal.\n Knowing that I still have to double it is actually just kind of depressing." }, { "id": "t1_okalsgd", "author": "/u/OkCelebration6408", "updated": "2026-05-06T17:55:32+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okalsgd/", "content": "America is a big country, there are places where you can get 3 houses with 1M and some you can't afford a house. If you are willing to move to lower cost of living area or countries then 1M is pretty decent." }, { "id": "t1_okbhlf3", "author": "/u/No-Test-2993", "updated": "2026-05-06T20:15:27+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okbhlf3/", "content": "1M is pretty decent anywhere that's not the US, Monaco, Luxembourg, or Switzerland." }, { "id": "t1_okarefb", "author": "/u/Baskema", "updated": "2026-05-06T18:20:02+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okarefb/", "content": "35F and not even close to 1M BUT I just hit 500k!! And I feel like that is worth celebrating!!!!!" }, { "id": "t1_okbkvsk", "author": "/u/PolymerIdentiFIRE", "updated": "2026-05-06T20:30:06+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okbkvsk/", "content": "I'm 37F and hit 500k recently too!!! I'm so excited for us!!!" }, { "id": "t1_okc1bwg", "author": "/u/Baskema", "updated": "2026-05-06T21:46:30+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okc1bwg/", "content": "AHHHH congrats!!!" }, { "id": "t1_okart2l", "author": "/u/ResolvePossible1129", "updated": "2026-05-06T18:21:48+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okart2l/", "content": "$500K is A HUGE DEAL!!! Amazing!" }, { "id": "t1_okalfr4", "author": "/u/Feisty-Hat2629", "updated": "2026-05-06T17:54:02+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okalfr4/", "content": "And from people in their 30s no less. A bunch of whiners who never will be satisfied. They should be grateful instead of all stressed out poor me humble braggers. Sorry for the rant." }, { "id": "t1_okaqorx", "author": "/u/Either-String5608", "updated": "2026-05-06T18:16:54+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okaqorx/", "content": "Hitting $1M at age 36??? Who the hell wouldn't be excited about that..." }, { "id": "t1_okalmpu", "author": "/u/Anthropic27", "updated": "2026-05-06T17:54:52+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okalmpu/", "content": "We hit the $1M mark last week at 42 and are over the moon! We could not be happier. Neither of us came from any sort of money. Grew up fairly poor. We busted our ass for this and the finish line is so much closer now. We will retire before 50 and that is such an amazing feeling for us." }, { "id": "t1_okam9u1", "author": "/u/ResolvePossible1129", "updated": "2026-05-06T17:57:35+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okam9u1/", "content": "Yes! Amazing! I hope you did something to celebrate." }, { "id": "t1_okaky27", "author": "/u/jasabala", "updated": "2026-05-06T17:51:59+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okaky27/", "content": "Yep. I get sick of that crap." }, { "id": "t1_okan24u", "author": "/u/PageExtension3962", "updated": "2026-05-06T18:00:56+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okan24u/", "content": "If you feel dead inside over 1M then my guess if no number will make you happy. Which is ok. Money doesn’t have to be the thing that gets you out of bed in the morning. When we hit 1M we were elated because we were two working class kids from NJ. As we’ve accumulated more wealth it’s not that we get happier but we do feel a sense of accomplishment and pride. I winder if the people unmoved by hitting a million are terminally discontent." }, { "id": "t1_okdlq6w", "author": "/u/Im_tracer_bullet", "updated": "2026-05-07T03:00:11+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okdlq6w/", "content": "While I recognize the 'achievement', it doesn't actually do much yet, that's the problem.\n I still have to go to work, and until that milestone number is hit, the $1M is just a round number on the way to the real goal.\n It's tough to get too excited about running 13.1 miles when you have to go 26.2 for it to really matter." }, { "id": "t1_okg5ly2", "author": "/u/TeeDeeTeeEcks", "updated": "2026-05-07T13:58:02+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okg5ly2/", "content": "This is the sort of comment that further reinforces to me that the vast majority of FIRE minded people will struggle to find happiness and/or contentment. I hit my first mill several years ago and I still recognize what a significant milestone it is.\n Even just a mill already means that if you're laid off or fired, you aren't going to be worrying about putting a roof over your head or food in your belly. If that doesn't do anything for you, I imagine no financial achievement ever will because your perspective will keep adjusting to your new reality and you'll never truly be happy. The vast majority of humans to have ever lived would do anything to be in your shoes. And yet, to you it doesn't mean much. That's quite sad." }, { "id": "t1_okb0fvh", "author": "/u/SFMattM", "updated": "2026-05-06T19:00:09+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okb0fvh/", "content": "Most people who talk crap about $1m are wildly incorrect. That's still a large amount of money. The way they talk it's like you can't survive on $1M. All you have to do is look at the investable assets of the average American of retirement age (It's about $200K) Congrats, btw" }, { "id": "t1_okavnki", "author": "/u/paladin10025", "updated": "2026-05-06T18:38:55+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okavnki/", "content": "About a decade or so ago I joined my mom for a meeting with her estate attorney. Mom complained that it all seemed so complicated and annoying for just the $5M she had. Lawyer kind of looked at her and said well yes, its just $5M, but its still $5M. Since then that amount has more than doubled with her basically doing nothing besides living day to day. Now she mostly complains about RMD’s.\n $1M is still $1M even though its not as great as $1M ten years or twenty years ago. I am older than you and have accumulated more than that and the last million gained was crazy fast, but I still remember how long it took for the first million. Since covid and especially past two years have been crazy market gains.\n Congrats to you in the near future!" }, { "id": "t1_okbikwv", "author": "/u/No-Test-2993", "updated": "2026-05-06T20:19:50+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okbikwv/", "content": "Yes, don't forget to use the Roth conversion ladder while you're still young to mitigate (if not eliminate) RMDs." }, { "id": "t1_okb7jje", "author": "/u/FullSeaworthiness453", "updated": "2026-05-06T19:31:54+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okb7jje/", "content": "I don’t get all the handwringing about $1m not being significant. It might not be enough to retire, but it certainly can insulate you from the vast majority of financial catastrophes that might happen in your life. That alone, unlocks many of the rat race handcuffs." }, { "id": "t1_okancm5", "author": "/u/1dirtbiker", "updated": "2026-05-06T18:02:12+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okancm5/", "content": "I'll tell you that the first million is the most exciting. Adding that second comma to your net worth feels way bigger than replacing a 1 with a 2." }, { "id": "t1_okawejq", "author": "/u/Shitty_Paint_Sketch", "updated": "2026-05-06T18:42:14+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okawejq/", "content": "People don't feel anything at $1m because it's not enough to live on for most people. $1m is cool because it's another comma, that's it. It takes at least $1.5-2m to replace even an incredibly modest salary, at least for anyone that is capable of pursuing FIRE." }, { "id": "t1_okaxofk", "author": "/u/ResolvePossible1129", "updated": "2026-05-06T18:47:56+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okaxofk/", "content": "Yes, I do understand inflation.. Its not really about the comma. 1M is still a big deal because it takes so long to get to the first million (for people with an average salary). Then things start moving pretty quickly once you reach that milestone." }, { "id": "t1_okbcufl", "author": "/u/Shitty_Paint_Sketch", "updated": "2026-05-06T19:54:48+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okbcufl/", "content": "Comment was not directed at you so much as a general explanation for why I think people do not have the momentous feeling that they expected when they hit $1m." }, { "id": "t1_okdmfqf", "author": "/u/Im_tracer_bullet", "updated": "2026-05-07T03:04:40+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okdmfqf/", "content": "You nailed it, too.\n Until the number = walking away from work, it's just another rung on the ladder." }, { "id": "t1_okanoi5", "author": "/u/Only_Doubt8026", "updated": "2026-05-06T18:03:38+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okanoi5/", "content": "More of this energy in this community! Great attitude and an accurate one" }, { "id": "t1_okaopg0", "author": "/u/SpiritualCatch6757", "updated": "2026-05-06T18:08:08+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okaopg0/", "content": "I’m 34F, a 2 years away from $1M, and I fully plan on feeling EVERYTHING when I get there! I'm very excited. I know $2M will feel even crazier.\n When I was 34, I thought the same as you. What's with these entitled engineer, doctors and lawyers not understanding how hard it is to make $1m? ... And when it happened. It was a quiet afternoon I told my wife whom promptly scoffed at me that it is paper money. I had a glass of soda and watched TV. $1m was my F-U number or CoastFIRE number. So it is a big deal! I went to work the next day as if nothing happened." }, { "id": "t1_okc38w5", "author": "/u/Ethos_Logos", "updated": "2026-05-06T21:55:57+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okc38w5/", "content": "Yeah, I was kinda excited when I hit 1m, when I told my wife, she smiled calmly and congratulated me.\n I expected her to be more excited! When I asked why (how?!?) she was so relaxed, she told me that she knew I’d make it once she saw me studying personal finance/options. That she always believed in me.\n I’ll tell ya, I didn’t even believe in myself to that degree. I’m a lucky guy." }, { "id": "t1_okaot0y", "author": "/u/Direct_Remove509", "updated": "2026-05-06T18:08:34+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okaot0y/", "content": "$1M is great and you should celebrate if you hit it but there is merit in saying $1M is not what it used to be and in most cases not enough to RE on." }, { "id": "t1_okan4ue", "author": "/u/PrestigiousShift134", "updated": "2026-05-06T18:01:16+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okan4ue/", "content": "1M at 34 is significantly more impressive than 1M at 65. You will reach 10M in your lifetime." }, { "id": "t1_okanly4", "author": "/u/fenton7", "updated": "2026-05-06T18:03:20+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okanly4/", "content": "Only 1.6% of adults worldwide have a net worth over $1M. We're spoiled in the United States but it's a huge accomplishment. Pick a baby born at random anywhere in the world and, roughly, there's only a 2% chance they will ever accumulate that much wealth. 1 in 50 - long shot odds. Even in the United States it's only 1 in 10 for a financial asset millionaire. And some good fraction of those are through inheritance not saving and investing." }, { "id": "t1_okam9tu", "author": "/u/Terruhcutta", "updated": "2026-05-06T17:57:35+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okam9tu/", "content": "I think it depends. Wife and are at 500k+ net worth but a portion of that is home equity so it doesn't feel as joyous. 1m liquid? Yo we'd be freaking hyped as hell. Congrats!" }, { "id": "t1_okbgcd9", "author": "/u/Exotic_Appointment25", "updated": "2026-05-06T20:09:55+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okbgcd9/", "content": "I feel that. On the same boat & almost at 1MM in investments now, not counting our home equity for us. We got just a lil bit to go & that makes me much more excited!! Mostly since we’re going to take the home equity & move somewhere else to hopefully not have a mortgage later also. 🎉" }, { "id": "t1_okbin7x", "author": "/u/Terruhcutta", "updated": "2026-05-06T20:20:07+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okbin7x/", "content": "No mortgage is the mooooove!" }, { "id": "t1_okaokgu", "author": "/u/Ok_Collar_4751", "updated": "2026-05-06T18:07:32+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okaokgu/", "content": "I got a series of champagne bottles stored with the numbers we need to hit written on them before breaking them open! Just had one a few months back and we’re on track to open one more this year.\n Celebrate everything!!!" }, { "id": "t1_okaq094", "author": "", "updated": "2026-05-06T18:13:52+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okaq094/", "content": "I agree $1M, especially $1M investable, is a very big deal. It demonstrates you have implemented the concept of FIRE to a degree that all but insures success if you want it." }, { "id": "t1_okaqxo2", "author": "/u/ResolvePossible1129", "updated": "2026-05-06T18:18:00+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okaqxo2/", "content": "Yes! Mine will be 1M invested." }, { "id": "t1_okc13z5", "author": "/u/portrayaloflife", "updated": "2026-05-06T21:45:25+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okc13z5/", "content": "I think its not so much about it not mattering, i think anyone who makes it to 1M feels pride. Its just like any other summit though, you still have problems, there’s not confetti and marching band, life goes on. And for most this was a long long climb for people.\n If anything, it really illustrated how intentional we should all be, in all aspects of our life, to celebrate the wins. Because no one else will. You gotta show up for yourself. And then get back to the hustle." }, { "id": "t1_okauqyi", "author": "/u/Gloomy_Session_3875", "updated": "2026-05-06T18:34:54+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okauqyi/", "content": "It is a huge amount of money. It is also a big deal because you're proving that you know how to save and invest. If you got there at 34, congrats, that is great.\n But in the United States $1m is not quite enough YET to have a careless retirement at a young or middle age, where you eat out once in a while, go on vacations, and buy nice things. $2m is much closer to the tipping point where investment earnings can pay for your (average person's) living expenses." }, { "id": "t1_okayhzb", "author": "/u/Banned3rdTimesaCharm", "updated": "2026-05-06T18:51:36+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okayhzb/", "content": "Look at this poor over here celebrating over almost being at 1m. Hah hah hah!" }, { "id": "t1_okb5xqz", "author": "/u/rh681", "updated": "2026-05-06T19:24:41+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okb5xqz/", "content": "I think we need to address (congratulate) the elephant in the room that you at 34 is already close to $1M. That is way better than where I was at that age, and most people period.\n My number at retirement will be between $1.5M and $1.8M, and I'm quite happy with that." }, { "id": "t1_okam08r", "author": "/u/AdEmergency5086", "updated": "2026-05-06T17:56:27+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okam08r/", "content": "Welcome to Reddit - where some dude in his mom’s basement says he has 10m and doesn’t want to retire. (He actually has 4 dollars in his bank account)" }, { "id": "t1_okang8w", "author": "/u/ResolvePossible1129", "updated": "2026-05-06T18:02:38+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okang8w/", "content": "lol accurate" }, { "id": "t1_okanskl", "author": "/u/AdEmergency5086", "updated": "2026-05-06T18:04:08+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okanskl/", "content": "Had an argument on social media with some dude who said 250k per year is a normal salary…….guy probably earned no more than 30 an hour but he was trying to convince me that is a normal salary." }, { "id": "t1_okap03c", "author": "/u/ScottyMcScot", "updated": "2026-05-06T18:09:26+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okap03c/", "content": "I passed that milestone last year and it felt like the first time I had that "FU money" that people talk about. And as I was unfortunately cut in a RIF layoff this spring, it doesn't feel so bad knowing that my financial situation is secure. Not ready to retire yet, but not feeling uncertain and stressed as I would otherwise be." }, { "id": "t1_okbjyjk", "author": "/u/No-Test-2993", "updated": "2026-05-06T20:25:56+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okbjyjk/", "content": "Having $1M outside of one's primary residence is still something to celebrate, but if you are in a VHCOL city, it's more like FO money than FU money." }, { "id": "t1_okb615p", "author": "/u/someguy984", "updated": "2026-05-06T19:25:07+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okb615p/", "content": "I can't believe a bunch of 30 somethings have a million, that is way young." }, { "id": "t1_okb6byk", "author": "/u/capitalsfan08", "updated": "2026-05-06T19:26:27+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okb6byk/", "content": "Right?! Sure it may not mean a lot now, but damn. I have $800k and my wife makes good money so I am pretty much "SpouseFI" which makes work not necessarily optional, but it let's me worry less about layoffs and performance reviews. It's great to know we can also sell our house (another $400k ish in additional NW) and leanFIRE somewhere that isn't the west coast if need be.\n I my project was canceled earlier this year and talking to my mom when it happened, she couldn't understand why I wasn't freaking out. If I hadn't made this nest egg, I would have been freaking out. That's something tangible.\n I do think a lot of people on here are far too binary between "FIREd" and "Not FIREd". Having $1m opens so many options for you in life. And that's what really matters, life, not a spreadsheet. When I read all of these posts about people mistaking the "boring middle" as actually boring rather than a reference to just sticking to the plan and letting it work I imagine that most of these people are going to be super disappointed when they do FIRE and find that life is just as dull as they found their working life." }, { "id": "t1_okan2cw", "author": "/u/Moon_Shakerz", "updated": "2026-05-06T18:00:58+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okan2cw/", "content": "Goal posts always move. When you hit that number it'll feel pretty good as you're on your way. Congratulations." }, { "id": "t1_okanwyo", "author": "/u/37347", "updated": "2026-05-06T18:04:41+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okanwyo/", "content": "It gets a lot easier once you get to 1 mil, the next mil will come so quick" }, { "id": "t1_okaudn2", "author": "/u/ResolvePossible1129", "updated": "2026-05-06T18:33:15+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okaudn2/", "content": "Yes I read about this all the time! Very interested to watch that journey" }, { "id": "t1_okaop60", "author": "/u/AwkwardDuckling87", "updated": "2026-05-06T18:08:06+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okaop60/", "content": "We hit 1M nrt worth without home equity last month and it feels fan-freaking-tastic." }, { "id": "t1_okawu4d", "author": "/u/YaeKitty", "updated": "2026-05-06T18:44:10+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okawu4d/", "content": "Usually the anecdote I read is 'i've hit $1m so why do I feel the same?' The answer usually being the person is putting off liviing life in the present for a future that may never come." }, { "id": "t1_okb4e72", "author": "/u/SaucyCouch", "updated": "2026-05-06T19:17:44+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okb4e72/", "content": "If you had 1M at the beginning of the year, you'd have made 70K if you were in the snp500 and nothing else, so far for the year.\n That's a lot of money for doing nothing" }, { "id": "t1_okeb2nx", "author": "/u/Timely_Sand_6162", "updated": "2026-05-07T06:03:47+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okeb2nx/", "content": "It’s definitely a big deal. Took 16yrs of working yrs and frugal lifestyle for us." }, { "id": "t1_okangi9", "author": "/u/chaosoffspring", "updated": "2026-05-06T18:02:40+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okangi9/", "content": "I will say that money magnifys a person's personality. If they feel nothing now, they wont even if they hit their target goal." }, { "id": "t1_okanoj6", "author": "/u/S1159P", "updated": "2026-05-06T18:03:39+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okanoj6/", "content": "The point of their posts, at least to me, isn't the value of the $1M, it's the unsettling fact that they feel dead inside. Hooray that you feel enthusiasm and joy! I am glad, and you expressing it makes me smile and feel good! But compassion and attention too for folks who are wondering why it is that they feel dead inside." }, { "id": "t1_okaoesa", "author": "/u/ResolvePossible1129", "updated": "2026-05-06T18:06:49+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okaoesa/", "content": "I get what you're saying, I hate my job, and feel dead inside from 9-5. But I still feel excitement when I see how far I've come." }, { "id": "t1_okaoec7", "author": "/u/StrikeScribe", "updated": "2026-05-06T18:06:46+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okaoec7/", "content": "I'm in my early 50s and haven't reached $1 million yet. But I'm getting there. So if you're in your 30s and getting to $1 million you're doing well. On the other hand, I live in a low-cost area and it seems a lot of Redditors live in high-cost areas where $1 million doesn't stretch as far as it used to." }, { "id": "t1_okaozt1", "author": "/u/todayistheday666", "updated": "2026-05-06T18:09:24+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okaozt1/", "content": "34F here as well! I hit my 1M milestone a few days ago and felt aaall the feels. it's a huge achievement given how I grew up in a paycheck to paycheck household.\n those who feel "dead inside" about 1M probably want to be in the 5-10M range so I guess it feels like nothing to them?" }, { "id": "t1_okaq9la", "author": "/u/coolest35", "updated": "2026-05-06T18:15:01+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okaq9la/", "content": "Some of it is just greed. I won't act holier than thou, the first million was exciting for me, now at $2.25, there's not really a "rush".\n Enjoy the "rush", it's certainly worth it and don't let the rest take away from the hard work you put in." }, { "id": "t1_okax8kn", "author": "/u/ThrowawayLDS_7gen", "updated": "2026-05-06T18:45:58+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okax8kn/", "content": "I'm going to be excited when I hit 500K. I'm stalling out around 460-470K with this market and a mortgage at 6.5%....\n I'm getting it refinanced at 5.375%, so that should help a lot. June can't come fast enough." }, { "id": "t1_okblfsj", "author": "/u/PolymerIdentiFIRE", "updated": "2026-05-06T20:32:39+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okblfsj/", "content": "I just passed 500k a bit ago, and it's definitely something to be excited about!! In my head, I keep saying it to myself as "half a million" and since my min FIRE number 1.5M, that's exactly 1/3 of the way there which imo is huge!! Don't know what your end goal is, but regardless I think we both should be proud." }, { "id": "t1_okay8jg", "author": "/u/ResolvePossible1129", "updated": "2026-05-06T18:50:25+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okay8jg/", "content": "500K is a huge deal, I feel like it takes forever to get there for many people! Big goals, congrats!" }, { "id": "t1_okd6sxr", "author": "/u/ThrowawayLDS_7gen", "updated": "2026-05-07T01:33:38+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okd6sxr/", "content": "Oh, I'm not there yet. Maybe by next year." }, { "id": "t1_okaxxsb", "author": "/u/Identity525601", "updated": "2026-05-06T18:49:06+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okaxxsb/", "content": "It all depends. Do you feel comfortable at $40k/yr lifestyle (including out of pocket ACA premiums) and doing things like Roth conversion ladder to effectively withdraw early (and draw down on) your taxable brokerage accounts? If so, $1M should feel like a dream come true.\n 10years ago I thought that when I hit $700k I'd leave the corporate world forever. I had that thought when I thought Hillary was going to be elected president and that certainly by 2026 we'd have universal free health care in the US. This isn't a political point: I'm not a Republican nor am I a Democrat or fan of Hillary, it's more that I found universal health care in the US to be an inevitability this time 10 years ago.\n It was not an inevitability, and now even removal of ACA subsidies is within the overton window of contemporary politics. We also went from historically low inflation to everything costing more after the covid years.\n So now while it doesn't feel like my lifestyle has changed all that much (and it hasn't, I've never left the country for a vacation) it's a moving target to where $1M went from feeling like "more than enough for everything I'll ever need" to "about half way there"\n So it's less that $1M became less of a big deal and more that external factors made $1M significantly less impactful than what it felt like when I began this whole adulthood thing.\n And I don't care about comparing my situation to the average 3-5% savings rate, nor do I care about comparing to Elon Musk or billionaires, neither of those cohort's $$ (or lack thereof) is going to help me with my goals, only my $$ will. So yeah, $1M was a massive let down. Felt good for a few days and then realized I'm still so far away.\n Now: leanFIRE'ers retire on $1M all the time, and that's great! I don't think you should let how someone else views wealth impact your own story. But also don't assume it's all people who have gotten lazy and fallen victim to lifestyle creep either." }, { "id": "t1_okayeqv", "author": "/u/yurkelhark", "updated": "2026-05-06T18:51:12+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okayeqv/", "content": "People hitting $1MM tends to coincide with 15+ years in the workforce and either approaching or being deep in burnout. It’s cool and feels good in the short term, but the concurrent realization that it’s not enough to buy freedom is a bummer and takes some of the joy.\n That said, I think these posts of people not being sure if they can retire on $5MM are also nuts, especially since many plan to do other, less stressful work. There’s a realistic medium that I think most people are trying to hit, but in HCOL areas $1MM isn’t enough." }, { "id": "t1_okb21wh", "author": "/u/VirileMongoose", "updated": "2026-05-06T19:07:17+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okb21wh/", "content": "You know, big deals and milestones in life are celebrated. We plan on celebrating the next financial milestone. Maybe it’s popping bottle of nice champagne, but it’s something.\n Acknowledge the wins. There’s enough strife in life. Celebrate it!" }, { "id": "t1_okb2nnn", "author": "/u/FigApprehensive6023", "updated": "2026-05-06T19:09:58+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okb2nnn/", "content": "Thanks for posting this cause I was thinking the same" }, { "id": "t1_okb9mhf", "author": "/u/Advanced_Double_42", "updated": "2026-05-06T19:40:49+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okb9mhf/", "content": "1 million isn't what it was in the 90s, but it is still enough for a meager retirement in a low CoL area.\n It isn't a goal for many because by the time they get there they'll need double to have a meager retirement, or they need more to maintain their current QoL." }, { "id": "t1_okbah6v", "author": "/u/tellmeitsagift", "updated": "2026-05-06T19:44:33+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okbah6v/", "content": "Agree completely! I was with a friend recently and they said “a 250k salary is nothing anymore” and I was gagged. Like, I’d save so much if I made that! I think people just don’t know how to budget; or they feel they need much more than they do. I am excited to get to 1 mil and will be very proud when it happens!" }, { "id": "t1_okbbn75", "author": "/u/RealWord5734", "updated": "2026-05-06T19:49:36+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okbbn75/", "content": "Yeah I don't know what those people are on about, it was a surreal feeling." }, { "id": "t1_okbkggb", "author": "/u/Ill_Savings_8338", "updated": "2026-05-06T20:28:09+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okbkggb/", "content": "1m is more exciting at 34 than at 40" }, { "id": "t1_okbsanq", "author": "/u/Few-Sail-6562", "updated": "2026-05-06T21:03:41+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okbsanq/", "content": "Hitting 1M in your 30s is a HUGE deal!! You should be celebrating!" }, { "id": "t1_okbx50n", "author": "/u/Healthy_Employer4", "updated": "2026-05-06T21:26:13+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okbx50n/", "content": "Financial dysmorphia is very prevalent in this sub. $1M in investments puts you in the top 3% of Americans. If you think you need $3-5M, then you’re going to be stressed about money for your entire life and enough will never be enough" }, { "id": "t1_okfmbi6", "author": "/u/opinionsvary_dalton", "updated": "2026-05-07T12:18:24+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okfmbi6/", "content": "Financial dysmorphia. Great term." }, { "id": "t1_okc22rx", "author": "/u/NaorobeFranz", "updated": "2026-05-06T21:50:11+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okc22rx/", "content": "1M is a lot, but the context matters and future plans. I see it as a great milestone, but not realistic for some on this sub. Posts mention yearly spend of 100-200k+. That's when 1M is inadequate.\n Anyway good job." }, { "id": "t1_okc64bx", "author": "/u/jim-i-am", "updated": "2026-05-06T22:10:41+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okc64bx/", "content": "I think about this often. I grew up in a single parent, blue collar home. We had our needs met and parent did best they could, but no college fund, no money support etc.\n Now at 48. Married 20 years, and household income of about $400K, we've been able to build a nest egg of about $2M. Fully funded our kids 529. Nearly paid off house. Extreme savers.\n Changing my thinking of finances and saving after these past 30 years is really hard. I know that our retirement is probably going to be close to $5M when we retire at 55. And our expenses will plummet (no more saving for college, cars, mortgage, retirement savings, etc). I know logically we'll be fine.\n But i really can't shake the idea of not putting "the beans in the cans every two weeks" like I've been doing for 30 years. It's a really hard mental shift. There is no "enough", not in a selfish way, but more in a "FOMO way".\n Hard to explain, but very real." }, { "id": "t1_okcbgzx", "author": "/u/EmkoTheSan", "updated": "2026-05-06T22:39:17+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okcbgzx/", "content": "It buys half of what it used to 10 years ago." }, { "id": "t1_okchojf", "author": "/u/DuffyBravo", "updated": "2026-05-06T23:12:47+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okchojf/", "content": "Took me 25 years to get to 1m. Then only 5 years to get to 2m. It is a huge deal!!" }, { "id": "t1_okcrkjm", "author": "/u/_javaScripted", "updated": "2026-05-07T00:07:21+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okcrkjm/", "content": "I'm in a similar age/position. I can't wait, and always shake my head when I hear people say 1m isn't enough. Why discourage people from saving as much as they can? Keep going!~" }, { "id": "t1_okcy61z", "author": "/u/srqfla", "updated": "2026-05-07T00:44:39+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okcy61z/", "content": "Having $1 million in liquid investable assets is rare. Only 6 million Americans can say they have this or more. This is only 2% of the adult US population. Rare indeed! And commendable" }, { "id": "t1_okdbe8b", "author": "/u/Loose_Principle8193", "updated": "2026-05-07T01:59:40+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okdbe8b/", "content": "It is a big deal! It's also a milestone you don't really get to go around telling family and friends, so celebrate it where you can! So from one stranger to another, congrats, well done!!!" }, { "id": "t1_okgn1je", "author": "/u/Educational_Tap_5463", "updated": "2026-05-07T15:17:31+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okgn1je/", "content": "About 20% of US households are net worth millionaires, which means 80% are not. To take it further, less than 2% of Americans are liquid millionaires. And in the global scale, one million net worth easily puts you in the top 1% of all humans.\n Anyone who says that is not a big deal is not zooming out enough to appreciate what they have. I agree that when it happens, it doesn't feel like a magic Disney moment, but it is something that you can reflect upon, greatly appreciate, and feel proud of achieving, no question." }, { "id": "t1_oksk4gi", "author": "/u/CenlaLowell", "updated": "2026-05-09T09:12:54+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/oksk4gi/", "content": "My real goal was one million hit it at age 44. Now it's a paid off home and cars entering retirement." }, { "id": "t1_okvx56q", "author": "/u/Ecstatic-Bear187", "updated": "2026-05-09T21:00:01+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okvx56q/", "content": "Well done! You should absolutely be excited and proud to have saved 1M at the age of 34. I know way more 34 yr olds still living with their parents than I do with $1M. Cheers and just enjoy watching it grow!" }, { "id": "t1_okx8k4j", "author": "/u/tamargo404", "updated": "2026-05-10T01:47:02+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okx8k4j/", "content": "It's still a big deal if it's $1M in liquid assets. Maybe not enough to retire early on but still an achievement. Only 1-2% of individuals reach that if you exclude house equity." }, { "id": "t1_oky4310", "author": "/u/TheReasonableCounsel", "updated": "2026-05-10T05:27:29+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/oky4310/", "content": "Me and my wife are worth north of a million and we still feel poor. We live in a high COL area, and we’re not struggling by any means, but we’re not crushing it either. A million today is like $500k when we were kids - still cool, but not nearly enough.." }, { "id": "t1_olaqrl9", "author": "/u/Necessary-Pepper-926", "updated": "2026-05-12T02:32:27+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/olaqrl9/", "content": "The biggest deal for me was when I paid off my house. That was huge." }, { "id": "t1_okallna", "author": "/u/Sea_Raccoon_5365", "updated": "2026-05-06T17:54:45+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okallna/", "content": "Having hit both, its like any material thing you buy in life or promotion at work. Very exciting for a week or two and then everything kinda goes back to normal. That doesn't seem its not exciting at the time but there really isn't any sort of extended joy out of it. I guess that could change with hitting a fire number." }, { "id": "t1_okamewi", "author": "/u/SlyFrog", "updated": "2026-05-06T17:58:10+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okamewi/", "content": "I don't know what it is, but it's the same "I'm going to pretend to be even more baller by pretending what I have is nothing" bullshit that you see in online gaming.\n It's so fucking annoying - people ranked in the top 1-5% of a game having to constantly talk about how they're garbage, etc.\n Like no, you objectively aren't, and you know that. Stop with the bullshit "when you're that good you know how bad you are" made up excuses about it and just stop the humble bragging." }, { "id": "t1_okan5n8", "author": "/u/Mysterious-Panda964", "updated": "2026-05-06T18:01:21+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okan5n8/", "content": "Thats awesome congratulations 👏" }, { "id": "t1_okao3d0", "author": "/u/Prime88", "updated": "2026-05-06T18:05:27+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okao3d0/", "content": "Yes it’s a big milestone that anyone should feel excited about. But the excitement definitely varies based on your age and where you live." }, { "id": "t1_okaoagh", "author": "/u/Chops888", "updated": "2026-05-06T18:06:18+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okaoagh/", "content": "$1M will feel like an awesome accomplishment. You've worked hard to get there, so celebrate when you do.\n My wife and I celebrate milestones with ice cream! Nothing fancy." }, { "id": "t1_okaof6w", "author": "/u/Verdona-000", "updated": "2026-05-06T18:06:52+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okaof6w/", "content": "It’s definitely still a big deal but because it’s not a FIRE number this community just downplays it." }, { "id": "t1_okaooje", "author": "/u/Turbulent-Dance6220", "updated": "2026-05-06T18:08:02+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okaooje/", "content": "Exactly!! Ppl need perspective. Sure costs are increasing but 1 m is a lot than may have or ever will so it’s good to have gratitude and have perspective. And yes it’s a crap ton of money literally." }, { "id": "t1_okapfyn", "author": "/u/intertubeluber", "updated": "2026-05-06T18:11:23+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okapfyn/", "content": "I think part of it is that for most people, hitting $1MM doesn’t materially change anything. It is truly an amazing milestone and absolutely should be celebrated. And thanks for the reminder that we’re all so lucky to ever reach such a goal. But for most people it still means going to work the next day. For many it means going to work for the next ten years." }, { "id": "t1_okaphw9", "author": "/u/Ok_Location7161", "updated": "2026-05-06T18:11:37+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okaphw9/", "content": "1 mil is alot but for me its not "I can quit my job" money. Im at split even:\n 500k brokerage 500k retirement.\n Yes, its alot, but here is me back in office playing corp life every weekeday....2 mil is my goal." }, { "id": "t1_okaqhvc", "author": "/u/Ok_Location7161", "updated": "2026-05-06T18:16:02+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okaqhvc/", "content": "10 trillion or bust!" }, { "id": "t1_okaqrs5", "author": "/u/Soda-Popinski-", "updated": "2026-05-06T18:17:16+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okaqrs5/", "content": "2 mil feels like the new 1 million" }, { "id": "t1_okar55a", "author": "/u/Adventurous-Tea-876", "updated": "2026-05-06T18:18:54+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okar55a/", "content": "$5M is the new $1M." }, { "id": "t1_okatae3", "author": "/u/Double-Steak4321", "updated": "2026-05-06T18:28:24+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okatae3/", "content": "I do feel accomplished but it does not change my expenses. I’m a minimalist so I don’t understand why people complaining they can’t save money while buying so much unnecessary stuff." }, { "id": "t1_okatd17", "author": "/u/Ok-Sheepherder7898", "updated": "2026-05-06T18:28:43+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okatd17/", "content": "It's just because it's a slow burn" }, { "id": "t1_okausxm", "author": "/u/Hot_Share8353", "updated": "2026-05-06T18:35:08+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okausxm/", "content": "While I think hitting a million in investments is always cause for celebration, it is not the same for everyone. If you always had a normal job that is below $100K and you saved since you were 20 and get there at 35, just WOW, that is so great. You can also be a FAANG engineer pulling $300+K a year plus stocks, and getting to a million might feel more MEH. It also might mean a lot less if the person who got there earning less than $100K is living off $50K and they are at 80% FIRE. While the person earning $300K+ might be living off $200K and $1M is just 20%. Also, age matters, if you are hitting $1M at 64, still congrats, but that means you retirement at 67 is going to be ok, vs $1M before 40 means you should be retiring significantly early." }, { "id": "t1_okawabx", "author": "/u/ResolvePossible1129", "updated": "2026-05-06T18:41:43+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okawabx/", "content": "I agree with all your points. I am curious why they post about it though if its NBD. 😉" }, { "id": "t1_okb5fkq", "author": "/u/B4K5c7N", "updated": "2026-05-06T19:22:25+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okb5fkq/", "content": "They post to brag and act like they are “above” having $1 mil." }, { "id": "t1_okbla72", "author": "/u/Hot_Share8353", "updated": "2026-05-06T20:31:57+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okbla72/", "content": "True point, humble brag?" }, { "id": "t1_okax94u", "author": "/u/Segelboot13", "updated": "2026-05-06T18:46:02+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okax94u/", "content": "Congratulations! You have achieved a major acompishment!\n My wife and I just retired early with an investment mix of $3.5 million, a pension of 50k annually and real estate worth about $1.2 million. Because we live simply, and always invested the bulk of our income, and now live on a fixed retirement income, we don't feel wealthy. People think that high net worth would mean thst we have high end cars, lavish home, etc. Ironically, we drive 10 to 15 year old cars, and (in retirement) bought a rural small farm that we plan to use for crops and livestock to supply food pantries and homeless shelters in our area." }, { "id": "t1_okblesx", "author": "/u/No-Test-2993", "updated": "2026-05-06T20:32:31+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okblesx/", "content": "In New Jersey, running a working farm with at least 5 acres of land (and a minimum profit of $500 per year) is a common strategy for avoiding property taxes." }, { "id": "t1_okay45o", "author": "/u/Noah_Safely", "updated": "2026-05-06T18:49:54+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okay45o/", "content": "It is a big milestone, honestly inflation has just been a gut punch over the last several years." }, { "id": "t1_okb0bwu", "author": "/u/Apprehensive-Ad-7525", "updated": "2026-05-06T18:59:40+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okb0bwu/", "content": "34 F and just crossed over 200k so… yeah I’d say $1M is still a big fucking deal! Thank you and congratulations!" }, { "id": "t1_okb20al", "author": "/u/ziggy-tiggy-bagel", "updated": "2026-05-06T19:07:06+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okb20al/", "content": "Maybe because they are so wrapped up in the planing to get there, once they achieve the goal, it's lost it's excitement" }, { "id": "t1_okb211f", "author": "/u/ziggy-tiggy-bagel", "updated": "2026-05-06T19:07:11+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okb211f/", "content": "Maybe because they are so wrapped up in the planing to get there, once they achieve the goal, it's lost it's excitement" }, { "id": "t1_okb2pmu", "author": "/u/pedro380085", "updated": "2026-05-06T19:10:13+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okb2pmu/", "content": "i’m in 300k euro and feel awesome already" }, { "id": "t1_okb3rgn", "author": "/u/InvestigatorPlus3229", "updated": "2026-05-06T19:14:53+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okb3rgn/", "content": "of course it is, most of the world is dirt poor, will work their entire lives for less than 10k usd a year" }, { "id": "t1_okb4thg", "author": "/u/madhouseangel", "updated": "2026-05-06T19:19:39+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okb4thg/", "content": "Same Sad You" }, { "id": "t1_okb7v7d", "author": "/u/cowboygamer_fort", "updated": "2026-05-06T19:33:19+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okb7v7d/", "content": "Facts I'm about to hit 100k and I'm over the moon" }, { "id": "t1_okb7yr7", "author": "/u/mrboofington", "updated": "2026-05-06T19:33:43+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okb7yr7/", "content": "34M and on the verge of $1M net worth. I know it's one of those milestones that doesn't really change anything in my day to day or short term plans but it's still a huge accomplishment that I'm excited for. I'll treat my family to something nice or fun to celebrate. It's one of those numbers as a kid you think would be impossible to reach and maybe it doesn't go as far as it used to but it's still exceptional, especially at a younger age." }, { "id": "t1_okb8v7d", "author": "/u/OpenAI_Marketing_LLM", "updated": "2026-05-06T19:37:28+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okb8v7d/", "content": "Congrats! I hope to hit that one day. I’d be FI immediately with that amount." }, { "id": "t1_okb9fjh", "author": "/u/poop-dolla", "updated": "2026-05-06T19:39:58+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okb9fjh/", "content": "I personally think the round number milestones or any other random/meaningless targets just don’t really matter. It makes sense people don’t feel anything when they hit them, because they’re all just random targets without meaning. Any actual meaningful targets do usually come along with some big feelings when you reach them. Like whatever your bare minimum FIRE target number is, or your actual FIRE target, or anything else like that. Like if you’re FIRE target is $1.95M, then I bet you’d get a lot more big happy feelings when you hit that than when you hit $2M even though $2M is higher and a round number.\n Now of course any progress along your path is a good thing, so the general concept of you adding more money to your FIRE investments is obviously good and something to feel proud of. But you should feel those feelings for any random number along the way, not just the big round ones." }, { "id": "t1_okb9hc9", "author": "/u/Future_Measurement42", "updated": "2026-05-06T19:40:11+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okb9hc9/", "content": "1 million is a big deal. The reality which this group ignores is you have a 50/50 chance of withdrawing 70k/year and being fine. If you were willing to adjust your spending in downs years your success goes even higher." }, { "id": "t1_okba5x1", "author": "/u/Sinbos", "updated": "2026-05-06T19:43:11+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okba5x1/", "content": "Is a million compared to 50 years ago not much? Yes\n Is it still a lot? Also yes" }, { "id": "t1_okbc5hc", "author": "/u/Buttholescraper", "updated": "2026-05-06T19:51:49+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okbc5hc/", "content": "I'm gonna go nuts at 100K" }, { "id": "t1_okbg6nk", "author": "/u/jrdhytr", "updated": "2026-05-06T20:09:13+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okbg6nk/", "content": "When I reached $1M my expenses were $35K, so it was a big deal for me. However, I kept going because I didn't want to be stuck at that spending level forever." }, { "id": "t1_okbge80", "author": "/u/hobopwnzor", "updated": "2026-05-06T20:10:09+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okbge80/", "content": "Depends what age. 1M at 60? Not a big deal. 1M at 36 is a big deal" }, { "id": "t1_okbgtd7", "author": "/u/diverdawg", "updated": "2026-05-06T20:12:00+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okbgtd7/", "content": "It’s weird. I have a fair amount more than $1M and passive income separate from that. I don’t spend much and certainly do not feel wealthy. I did buy a nice truck recently for about $70k and took the 1 payment plan.\n I said to my wife the other day, it’s like when we were broke, we just thought everyone was broke. Same’ish now, we figure our peer group is similar to us. They certainly spend more but I guess we know that they likely do not have a fair amount of money." }, { "id": "t1_okbh2ef", "author": "/u/Famous-Ambassador822", "updated": "2026-05-06T20:13:07+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okbh2ef/", "content": "(M56) I think that’s basically because as you age and accumulate more wealth your perspective on what you need and can accomplish with that wealth changes as you age and responsibilities and reality pile up… BUT don’t let that dampen your spirits. Celebrate those milestones! And be proud of what you’ve accomplished. Husband and I often reflect on how we got to $3M and planning early retirement and we did not celebrate promotions, or savings goals, or anything really. That survival mode kind of focuses your energy on the grind and challenges and not the successes I think? My 34yo son recently called to tell me about a raise. I made him promise he would celebrate it." }, { "id": "t1_okbhccz", "author": "/u/Fishtaco1234", "updated": "2026-05-06T20:14:21+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okbhccz/", "content": "I don’t think it’s meh money, but it’s just so far away from any possibility of not working anymore. After 20 years of corporate grind, it’s hard to see the forest for the trees. It might just be a way for people to not get too excited, as one wrong move and the plan can go off the rails. It is pretty cool that days like today you can go from 1M and see a 27k increase." }, { "id": "t1_okbhlka", "author": "/u/wet_suit_one", "updated": "2026-05-06T20:15:28+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okbhlka/", "content": "Related to this, see here:\n https://theprudentspeculator.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/ubs_global_wealth_report_2025_figure3.png\n Note the definition of net worth to generate that pyramid is as follows:\n "Net worth or “wealth” is defined as the value of financial assets and real assets (principally housing) owned by private individuals, less their debts. Private pension fund assets are included, but not entitlements to state pensions. Human capital is excluded altogether, along with assets and debts owned by the state (which cannot easily be assigned to individuals)."\n Get the report here: https://www.ubs.com/global/en/wealthmanagement/insights/global-wealth-report.html\n I.e. 1 million dollars is still a pretty big deal." }, { "id": "t1_okbif8o", "author": "/u/Elite163", "updated": "2026-05-06T20:19:08+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okbif8o/", "content": "Goal posts just keep moving…. Trust me" }, { "id": "t1_okbjbjw", "author": "/u/PowerfulFly1326", "updated": "2026-05-06T20:23:06+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okbjbjw/", "content": "It’s crazy for people who are far away from it and not there yet.\n It’s “no big deal” once you have spent years and years, sometimes decades making sacrifices in order to get there. Over time you see it coming and know you are getting there so it’s a gradual realization. It’s not like you go from negative network to 1M overnight by investing." }, { "id": "t1_okbjp4t", "author": "/u/Dan_Williams_479", "updated": "2026-05-06T20:24:46+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okbjp4t/", "content": "You have to remember, most people who have recently achieved $1M lived in the 80s. It was more rare to be a millionaire during that time period.\n The value of $1M in the 80s is equivalent to just $253,000 in today’s $$$ because of inflation." }, { "id": "t1_okbk2y3", "author": "/u/Adorable-Drummer", "updated": "2026-05-06T20:26:28+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okbk2y3/", "content": "I can tell why ppl say that it feels nothing or mundane, when they hit $1mm this year. When they set that target, perhaps a few years back, you could eat out and it would cost $30-40 per head. You could buy air tix typically for 400-500 for domestic travel. Now a dinner night costs smthg like $75-80 minimum. Any round trip domestic travel is north of $600 at least. Even going to Mexico is like $800-900. Even a bathroom renovation would cost almost 2x of pre-Covid. Suddenly, because of run-away inflation, same amount of nominal savings would feel much smaller in real term. No wonder, people feel like getting to their target of $1mm didn’t bring them as much happiness as they thought it would" }, { "id": "t1_okbladq", "author": "/u/Marco_Zero0", "updated": "2026-05-06T20:31:58+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okbladq/", "content": "Gosto de 1 milhão porque é um número redondo. Pelo mesmo motivo irei morrer com 100 anos." }, { "id": "t1_okbovgw", "author": "/u/FlatFootedLlama", "updated": "2026-05-06T20:48:18+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okbovgw/", "content": "I just hit a million and I’m fuckin stoked, I’m with you OP." }, { "id": "t1_okbyl79", "author": "/u/leaflavaplanetmoss", "updated": "2026-05-06T21:33:09+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okbyl79/", "content": "But I am dead inside." }, { "id": "t1_okbze5o", "author": "/u/Johnwesleya", "updated": "2026-05-06T21:37:03+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okbze5o/", "content": "I put my spreadsheets into Claude and it made me a dope projection tool for my net worth.\n I’m 37 male and will be hitting it sometime this fall if trends continue.\n I intend to soak it in as much as possible it will be an amazing milestone I’ve been working years for." }, { "id": "t1_okc10mk", "author": "/u/Visible-Recipe8252", "updated": "2026-05-06T21:44:57+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okc10mk/", "content": "You can't control your feelings, we hit $1M at 32 and felt okay but not ecstatic or like everything in our life had changed just good. It's like cool number on the screen, but we are still going to go to work and do the same thing for the next 10 years at least regardless, its not bad it just didnt change anything." }, { "id": "t1_okc2tlg", "author": "/u/Ok-Care-8857", "updated": "2026-05-06T21:53:52+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okc2tlg/", "content": "I hear you. Closing in on net worth of $5.8m at the moment. $5.1m of that is in cash and investments. It feels weird to think about. On the one hand, I know it’s a lot of money. On the other hand, it doesn’t feel like it. Hoping to retire in 2.5 years with $6m in investments. Did it the hard way. Slow and steady saving right out of college combined with a big career boost in my 40’s. Just a guy from Maine." }, { "id": "t1_okc32xr", "author": "/u/Beautiful_Review_336", "updated": "2026-05-06T21:55:09+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okc32xr/", "content": "You can so it!!!! Feel the interest compounding!" }, { "id": "t1_okc34h1", "author": "/u/daybauchery", "updated": "2026-05-06T21:55:21+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okc34h1/", "content": "You’re right, it is a big deal. Even though I was the first millionaire in my family and grew up in a lower income household, the milestone didn’t feel the way I thought.\n Not because it didn’t mean anything, but because it didn’t change my day to day of my current life. 1 million isn’t enough to retire for my goals, so everything continued without change and I told no one.\n To reach the milestone in my mid thirties was something to celebrate. My spouse and I went to our favorite cocktail bar, ordered a cocktail called Millionaire and toasted. It had become an annual tradition to celebrate how far we’ve come from the way we grew up." }, { "id": "t1_okc3h2a", "author": "/u/Few_Notice_5075", "updated": "2026-05-06T21:57:06+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okc3h2a/", "content": "If we got married we would hit 2m instantly when we are both 36 lol. :')" }, { "id": "t1_okc4f6p", "author": "/u/Creepy-Release-9526", "updated": "2026-05-06T22:01:53+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okc4f6p/", "content": "I have 1 mil+ if I add in my retirement accounts but I feel like until I hit 1M in my personal investment brokerage account I can’t feel it 🥲" }, { "id": "t1_okc5lng", "author": "/u/gurrenvoid", "updated": "2026-05-06T22:07:58+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okc5lng/", "content": "If you relate to 1 million being nothing can someone please donate $30k to me I am in so much debt" }, { "id": "t1_okc7bq2", "author": "/u/_courteroy", "updated": "2026-05-06T22:17:02+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okc7bq2/", "content": "Hey, I’m 43 and like negative $65,000 lol I’d give anything to have a million. I’m pretty sure I’m not retiring early unless I come into a windfall." }, { "id": "t1_okc9ecq", "author": "/u/TooMuchButtHair", "updated": "2026-05-06T22:28:01+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okc9ecq/", "content": "$1 million is a huge deal lol\n Having $1 million invested means you can withdraw $40k/year effectively in perpetuity (most likely). That's $20/hr without going to work. It wouldn't be a glamorous life, but it would be good enough for most." }, { "id": "t1_okca1w3", "author": "/u/alala_0115", "updated": "2026-05-06T22:31:33+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okca1w3/", "content": "Even $100k feels extremely special!!" }, { "id": "t1_okcam80", "author": "/u/OuiGotTheFunk", "updated": "2026-05-06T22:34:39+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okcam80/", "content": "It is not that $1 million is nothing it is just I feel I have more to lose and spending so much time working on getting it makes using it counterintuitive." }, { "id": "t1_okcdx96", "author": "/u/Background_Mall_7021", "updated": "2026-05-06T22:52:28+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okcdx96/", "content": "Yeah as someone who has basically no moneys after being unemployed for a long time and also very low financial literacy… a lot of y’all in here should consider being more hyped imo. You are doing better than almost all of humanity like come on now!!!" }, { "id": "t1_okcemny", "author": "/u/UnderstandingNew2810", "updated": "2026-05-06T22:56:16+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okcemny/", "content": "1M isn’t much. But you have to pass that to get to 10M" }, { "id": "t1_okcfiwz", "author": "/u/heebeegb96", "updated": "2026-05-06T23:01:04+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okcfiwz/", "content": "You should celebrate!" }, { "id": "t1_okch4ro", "author": "/u/Hungry_Leg_2526", "updated": "2026-05-06T23:09:50+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okch4ro/", "content": "Congratulations 🎉👏" }, { "id": "t1_okchxs9", "author": "/u/Patient-Flan9037", "updated": "2026-05-06T23:14:11+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okchxs9/", "content": "Congratulations!!!\n Also, why is $3M or $5M the target?" }, { "id": "t1_okcjdew", "author": "/u/Green0Photon", "updated": "2026-05-06T23:22:00+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okcjdew/", "content": "Yeah, it's all, oh $40k per year is nowhere near enough to FIRE on.\n I don't know or expect it to be enough when I get there. Because, what if it is, though?\n What if I can hit $1MM and make FIRE work on that. Or even, have it work in theory but still have a job that I pick entirely for myself." }, { "id": "t1_okckhnq", "author": "/u/Alakozam", "updated": "2026-05-06T23:28:08+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okckhnq/", "content": "$1M is all I need. I can easily live on that for my entire life without ever worrying or working again and still underspend the growth. You don't need a lavish life to be happy." }, { "id": "t1_okcpnce", "author": "/u/Linusthewise", "updated": "2026-05-06T23:56:26+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okcpnce/", "content": "It's a big deal but it isn't retire money for a lot of people. That much is fantastic but a down turn in the arock market, a major medical expense, and/or massive inflation means back to work.\n I'm about $350k investments and $500k net worth. I think I will need $1.4 million but won't retire until $1.7. I need that 'in case shit happens' cushion in order to feel safely retired." }, { "id": "t1_okcrcjs", "author": "/u/Unkindly-bread", "updated": "2026-05-07T00:06:04+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okcrcjs/", "content": "53, and crossed a M net worth a little less than a year ago after getting three kids through college, and probably there invested $$ now.\n $1M is a huge milestone!" }, { "id": "t1_okcrsv5", "author": "/u/Economist_hat", "updated": "2026-05-07T00:08:38+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okcrsv5/", "content": "2m was not any crazier.\n 1m was great." }, { "id": "t1_okct8di", "author": "/u/wtfgirl21", "updated": "2026-05-07T00:16:47+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okct8di/", "content": "My goal is to have my house paid off at 37 I’m 28 now.. outside of throwing so much extra to My house I only spend $30k a year out of the $100k I make a year so my number is 757k at 45 to retire.. I could cut back on that $30k a year too without my mortgage." }, { "id": "t1_okcu5dq", "author": "/u/Fee-Massive", "updated": "2026-05-07T00:21:58+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okcu5dq/", "content": "I celebrate every milestone. I celebrated $500k. I celebrated $1mm net worth. I celebrated 1.5mm net worth. I celebrated 2.mm net worth, 2.5mm and then 3mm net worth. Then i celebrated 2mm in investments only. Then i celebrated 2mm in investments not counting the kids 529s. Next one on the radar is $3.5mm net worth. Keep pushing for next goal.\n One million is a big milestone and should be celebrated. we all have our own goals and for me to consider myself a millionaire i need like to go back to when i grew up. I convert everything to Brewster’s Millions. 1 million in 1985 is a millionaire. Now that same wealth is $3mm in today’s dollars. So when i hit $3mm in investments I will consider myself a millionaire. Then that is just one more double away from $6 million which i would then consider myself a multi-millionaire as it would be $2mm in 1985 dollars.\n Trying to get there one milestone at a time and i may never make it but you’ll get a lot farther in the end by continuing to strive for the next milestone." }, { "id": "t1_okg9dcp", "author": "/u/girouxsalem28", "updated": "2026-05-07T14:15:34+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okg9dcp/", "content": "How did you celebrate your milestones? I like to see what others did for their goals. We are hopefully hitting 1M in the next two years so i'm thinking of ideas how we can celebrate." }, { "id": "t1_okgghiq", "author": "/u/Fee-Massive", "updated": "2026-05-07T14:48:06+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okgghiq/", "content": "I have a net worth spreadsheet and I enter the date and value when we hit new milestones for the first time and I share these milestones with my wife to help her see progress and keep us positive on our journey. Babysteps." }, { "id": "t1_okcwrtp", "author": "/u/Medapple20", "updated": "2026-05-07T00:36:48+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okcwrtp/", "content": "How you feel about yourself and your life has nothing to do with money. We need to have life outside money goals to feel happy. Money solves all the "money problems" (which is a big deal). It does not make us happy." }, { "id": "t1_okd0t29", "author": "/u/kilimtilikum", "updated": "2026-05-07T00:59:31+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okd0t29/", "content": "2 years from now: “36F, hit 1M, and I FEEL NOTHING” lol" }, { "id": "t1_okd49yw", "author": "", "updated": "2026-05-07T01:19:12+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okd49yw/", "content": "[deleted]" }, { "id": "t1_okd5tpf", "author": "/u/kilimtilikum", "updated": "2026-05-07T01:28:02+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okd5tpf/", "content": "You missed the point of the joke my friend. Not everything in life has to be gender based." }, { "id": "t1_okd2soh", "author": "/u/Professional_Eye_990", "updated": "2026-05-07T01:10:45+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okd2soh/", "content": "I’m right there with you!!! It’s a HUGE amount. I’ve been working since I was legally allowed to, saving bit by bit when I could. 35F and just crossed 900K… getting close and when 1M is hit I will also be feeeling it ALL!! That is just a huge amount! I already feel much mire at peace mentally. I never wanted to live to corporate life forever so this is very pleasant, I can see of future pf sharing into other lines of work possibly more creative, self-directed, interpersonal or with a slower pace. ITS WOOO" }, { "id": "t1_okd3n0y", "author": "/u/smoosh33", "updated": "2026-05-07T01:15:35+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okd3n0y/", "content": "I think what people don't realize is that once you get to $1M the gains start picking up steam. It took me 14 years to go from $0 to $1M and then only 6 years to go from $1M to $2M." }, { "id": "t1_okd59hk", "author": "/u/flappysack-", "updated": "2026-05-07T01:24:54+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okd59hk/", "content": "The problem is the inflation I feel. The CPI does not purport to maintain a fixed standard of living, and thus is not a believable metric for maintaining purchasing power." }, { "id": "t1_okd8fk1", "author": "/u/radiotakeshi_london", "updated": "2026-05-07T01:42:52+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okd8fk1/", "content": "$1,012,216 today. Not that I am counting or anything 😅" }, { "id": "t1_okdc16d", "author": "/u/RumSchooner", "updated": "2026-05-07T02:03:16+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okdc16d/", "content": "😁😁" }, { "id": "t1_okd8hsr", "author": "/u/ThatPhrase586", "updated": "2026-05-07T01:43:13+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okd8hsr/", "content": "that is amazing! I feel it's not about being able to quit but rather having more choices in life and careers that are meaningful to you." }, { "id": "t1_okdfm4b", "author": "/u/lseraehwcaism", "updated": "2026-05-07T02:23:44+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okdfm4b/", "content": "I’ll say this, I was excited when I hit $1 million net worth. I was excited when I hit $1 million in investment accounts. It wasn’t as anticlimactic as most people make it seem to be, but it was a bit anticlimactic.\n I knew those milestones were only months, than weeks, than days away. When the day finally came, I wasn’t surprised.\n It felt more like opening a Christmas present that you REALLY REALLY wanted, but knew what it was months in advance because you saw it in your parents garage, but you can’t use it for another 10 years because you’re only 6 and you don’t get your drivers license until you’re 16." }, { "id": "t1_okdfv2k", "author": "/u/Main-Ad-841", "updated": "2026-05-07T02:25:11+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okdfv2k/", "content": "Took me 15 years to get to my first million invested (excluding home). It was nice to hit it, but honestly nothing terribly exciting. I’m just ready for it to really start compounding and see $2-3-4-5MM." }, { "id": "t1_okdgkns", "author": "/u/Quin35", "updated": "2026-05-07T02:29:20+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okdgkns/", "content": "I got there last year at 55, in large part due to an inheritance. Then I got laid off. Then I realized it wasn't quite enough to stop working and enjoy the lifestyle I want, so I went back to work." }, { "id": "t1_okdgvq2", "author": "/u/mtron32", "updated": "2026-05-07T02:31:09+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okdgvq2/", "content": "Right there with you, it’s a big damned deal to hit that milestone. That’s halfway to my number baby" }, { "id": "t1_okdgztm", "author": "/u/ReincarnatedCat", "updated": "2026-05-07T02:31:48+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okdgztm/", "content": "I retired 2 years ago after hitting 1 million. Thankfully it's 1.2 now. So it's a big deal to some people." }, { "id": "t1_okdhshd", "author": "/u/Jwoot1111", "updated": "2026-05-07T02:36:30+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okdhshd/", "content": "It’s a huge milestone. Don’t let anyone tell you otherwise." }, { "id": "t1_okdku27", "author": "/u/openclaw-lover", "updated": "2026-05-07T02:54:40+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okdku27/", "content": "First 1 M is the hardest. Easier and easier to reach 2, 3, 4M." }, { "id": "t1_okdo7g4", "author": "/u/AdBoring6247", "updated": "2026-05-07T03:15:59+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okdo7g4/", "content": "What are the components of your $1M?" }, { "id": "t1_okds07q", "author": "/u/CrosseyedCletus", "updated": "2026-05-07T03:40:53+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okds07q/", "content": "You might be surprised…" }, { "id": "t1_okdwzjr", "author": "/u/lagosboy40", "updated": "2026-05-07T04:15:00+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okdwzjr/", "content": "Thanks for the post. I, like you also shrug when I see those posts that seek to diminish $1m. $1m is a big milestone to me." }, { "id": "t1_oke2e4d", "author": "/u/ryan__joe", "updated": "2026-05-07T04:54:35+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/oke2e4d/", "content": "Yeah, but impending doom of knowing you’ll need 10m in retirement due to inflation in 30 years hurts" }, { "id": "t1_okesf9p", "author": "/u/holiztic", "updated": "2026-05-07T08:36:06+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okesf9p/", "content": "And my husband feels meh at 5 million and planning to work 10 more years, so really it’s about the person and not the goal attained." }, { "id": "t1_okesmnz", "author": "/u/shanewzR", "updated": "2026-05-07T08:38:02+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okesmnz/", "content": "Yes $1M is a big deal but people also confuse $1M today with the same as $1M 10 or 20 years ago. Being a Millionaire today is nice but back 20 years, that was elite." }, { "id": "t1_okf0v5e", "author": "/u/Working-Active", "updated": "2026-05-07T09:51:23+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okf0v5e/", "content": "I was surprised to find out that Globally there are only 0.2% liquid millionaires." }, { "id": "t1_okf4zfc", "author": "/u/sc1lurker", "updated": "2026-05-07T10:24:22+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okf4zfc/", "content": "1M is a big accomplishment. I mean, c'mon, some jealous Redditors literally talking about taxing you more heavily now that you're a millionaire. It's a milestone worthy of celebration." }, { "id": "t1_okf5by2", "author": "/u/Acceptable_Usual1646", "updated": "2026-05-07T10:27:03+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okf5by2/", "content": "You are so right! I hot the 1M last spring and I could not stop smiling for a month, I felt so proud. Now I am disappointed that the 2M are so far away" }, { "id": "t1_okf7n6d", "author": "/u/Specific_Pilot_328", "updated": "2026-05-07T10:44:19+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okf7n6d/", "content": "I was pretty excited when I hit 1 million in Dec 2025! I only make $100k a year tho which apparently is shit now lol. I think it depends on how much you make, how old you are and your expenses per year. For me I spend 36k a year to live, I save around 45% of my salary and I am 46. If I was 55 and made 500k a year I’d be a lot less excited to hit 1 million you know?" }, { "id": "t1_okfd9aw", "author": "/u/Significant-Ad-9471", "updated": "2026-05-07T11:22:41+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okfd9aw/", "content": "I live in Eastern Europe, for me even 100k was a huge deal back then, and 1M was something impossible when I started working." }, { "id": "t1_okfgrjx", "author": "/u/Numerous-Bet-4847", "updated": "2026-05-07T11:45:09+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okfgrjx/", "content": "$1M is still $100k per year income if you make 10%, you can liver pretty well on that if you're debt free for life without ever touching the principle.\n And before everyone jumps in claiming you can't make that consistently, My cumulative average yield over the past 34 years was 10.1% without really trying, just staying in the standard 4 index funds DR suggests." }, { "id": "t1_okfmzzn", "author": "/u/The-zKR0N0S", "updated": "2026-05-07T12:22:13+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okfmzzn/", "content": "It is a meaningful milestone but likely not enough to retire on for the vast majority of people." }, { "id": "t1_okfrzsb", "author": "/u/104Metalhead104", "updated": "2026-05-07T12:49:39+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okfrzsb/", "content": "I'm 34 too and I'll never reach the milion" }, { "id": "t1_okfu48c", "author": "/u/rex8499", "updated": "2026-05-07T13:00:45+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okfu48c/", "content": "My wife and I went out to dinner to celebrate." }, { "id": "t1_okg39le", "author": "/u/TeeDeeTeeEcks", "updated": "2026-05-07T13:46:54+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okg39le/", "content": "Not accounting for age and including home equity, a household net worth of $1 million dollars is in the 82nd percentile of all US households. So any individual with that amount is obviously still doing pretty well, relatively speaking. Especially if you aren't even living in HCOL areas like the NYC or the Bay Area." }, { "id": "t1_okgccjp", "author": "/u/New_Fire_guy", "updated": "2026-05-07T14:29:19+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okgccjp/", "content": "I wish you would tell my wife that!\n Last November, I turned 59.5 and had $2.1M. I pulled $170K out pay down some long term debt we have carried forever...mispent youth and student loans. We never thought we would hit $1M but made 2!\n (we carried a lot of debt but I secretly kept us poorer than we needed to be to build up our nest egg. Our debt was so profound that my plan for killing it was a debt bomb at 59.5. I was aggressive and we certainly got lucky with a 10yr ROI of 404%. I beat my credit card rates in the 401K).\n So, we paid off everything for pre-retirement. I pulled another $100k in January just so she could see a big balance in our savings...her family came from nothing and a savings account is real money, to her, and 401k is pretend money or something.\n That withdrawal and the slow market put us in the $1.8-1.9m range and honestly I hated that feeling. We just replenished the $270K and we are back to $2.1M, whew.\n When I was 55 with $1M my company was doing a bunch of salary layoffs. I guarantee that my mental health was much better than my colleagues who were at half that.\n $1m gives you security. You can definitely retire with that, I've done the math when I expected i was going to be a forced FIRE.\n $2m gives you control. Especially with my ROI at 35%, I feel like I can handle whatever the world throws at me.\n $3m...I can help my wife's sisters.\n I am retiring here in a month. The fact that my wife and i were financial fuckups for years and somehow got here...if we can do it, anyone can...except less than 2% of all savers actually do.\n When we hit $1.4 I told my wife we were true millionaires after taxes. When we hit $2m, I told her we were multi-millionaires.\n Taxes suck, we won't be aftertax multi-millionaries until $3m.\n But all that is the kind of math you do once you get that first million. Enjoy it." }, { "id": "t1_okgn7mr", "author": "/u/MattieShoes", "updated": "2026-05-07T15:18:17+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okgn7mr/", "content": "I find it helps to change the units. A million is such a large number that it really doesn't land.\n You can turn it into time -- ie. you're 7 years from $2M, or 10 years accounting for inflation, without even saving any more\n You can turn it into dollars per day. Around $915k gets you a shiny $100 bill underneath your pillow every morning for the rest of your life ." }, { "id": "t1_okgq1rn", "author": "/u/ILurkSubs", "updated": "2026-05-07T15:30:51+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okgq1rn/", "content": "For me, it is because what $1million was when I started fire (13 years ago) and what it is now is very different feeling. Granted I never “felt” $1million then, but it was some insane amount. I also was single with no children. According to inflation calculator, $1 million in 2013 is roughly $1.4 million in today’s money. And if I was to get handed that extra $400,000, tomorrow, that I lost to inflation a long the way, then I would feel far more excited. It just doesn’t feel as powerful as I hoped it would all those years back, as naive as it sounds" }, { "id": "t1_okh2fv9", "author": "/u/danjams1", "updated": "2026-05-07T16:25:08+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okh2fv9/", "content": "“I feel dead inside” I bet if they lost that $1m they’d feel something…" }, { "id": "t1_okhaa9s", "author": "/u/camiga_aliners", "updated": "2026-05-07T16:59:44+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okhaa9s/", "content": "I hit one million last fall and i called my mom immediately. Spent the whole day refreshing my account.\n It’s a huge accomplishment! Years of saving, investing, staying disciplined. It’s 1000% something to celebrate!! Excited for you to hit 1 mil soon" }, { "id": "t1_okifsw4", "author": "/u/Soggy-Attempt", "updated": "2026-05-07T20:05:43+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okifsw4/", "content": "Hate to burst your bubble, but 1M net worth is not elite.\n It’s barely top 20%.\n It’s like being a\n ‘B’ student. That’s better than average and some people are happy with that, but it’s far from elite.\n But you’re in the big pool, just in the shallow end. Keep moving out and you’ll be swimming with the sharks before you know it." }, { "id": "t1_okio3y4", "author": "/u/Redbedhead3", "updated": "2026-05-07T20:43:50+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okio3y4/", "content": "My husband is not really a FIRE follower. He likes the idea of saving and retiring early but isn't in the weeds.\n We arent near $1M but everytime I show him our investment NW he gets so excited. Its my way of touching grass lol.\n If you are rich but feel poor you will always be poor" }, { "id": "t1_okj6xpk", "author": "/u/That-SoCal-Guy", "updated": "2026-05-07T22:15:38+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okj6xpk/", "content": "You're way ahead of the rest of the country where the median savings in your age group is only like $200K. You should be proud of yourself.\n Conventional wisdom is that by 40yo you should have saved at least 3X your annual salary. So unless you make over $300K a year, you're way ahead of the curve." }, { "id": "t1_okjea4x", "author": "/u/Cunorix", "updated": "2026-05-07T22:55:50+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okjea4x/", "content": "How is 3-5 mil the number for most people? 1-2 gets you 6-10k a month without even accounting any growth. How much are you all fucking spendin? Jesus" }, { "id": "t1_okjo1ft", "author": "/u/SatisfactionSweet806", "updated": "2026-05-07T23:52:16+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okjo1ft/", "content": "I think I was more excited to hit $100k than I was to hit $1m...pyschology of money is odd. Congrats though!" }, { "id": "t1_okjq5mh", "author": "/u/KindEducation7616", "updated": "2026-05-08T00:05:31+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okjq5mh/", "content": "I think it has more to do with what you thought it would feel like when you started at 0 but when you actually get there it feels like nothing because you got there gradually. If I went from 0-1M overnight because I won the lottery it would feel very different than crawling to 1M over 15 years over steady investing!" }, { "id": "t1_okjtw0u", "author": "/u/WheelLeast1873", "updated": "2026-05-08T00:29:55+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okjtw0u/", "content": "Just passed 4 this week. Crazy yeah but it's just numbers on a screen until it isn't. Nothing changes in my day to day." }, { "id": "t1_okk4ayj", "author": "/u/skookumme", "updated": "2026-05-08T01:37:18+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okk4ayj/", "content": "Same, sis. 1 million and I'm gonna be feeling really fucking good." }, { "id": "t1_okkb26i", "author": "/u/Chipped_Ruby_11214", "updated": "2026-05-08T02:19:12+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okkb26i/", "content": "$3M may be a goal for a lot of people, but few make it. So there won’t be a lot of celebrating. $3M is close to top 6% of household wealth. Considering that there are about 150M households that is still a lot of people (9 million), but there are a lot of folks who aren’t ever and will never come close. So, yes, $1M is still a great accomplishment." }, { "id": "t1_okkjuz4", "author": "/u/Maybenexttime86", "updated": "2026-05-08T03:16:34+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okkjuz4/", "content": "Will you guys consider financial assets only or equity on the house too?" }, { "id": "t1_okl3tt8", "author": "/u/thatguykeith", "updated": "2026-05-08T05:44:32+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okl3tt8/", "content": "I’m on this sub because I find it hopeful to see what other people have done. Realistically I’m 40 and will probably work til 70+ with a current net value of around $260k. Fortunately as a therapist my work feels really meaningful and isn’t a 40 hrs or nothing situation. I can also do it when I’m old provided I take care of myself. SO MANY OF YOU ARE DOING SO WELL! I daydream about writing celebrities letters and to get some help to pay off my student loan lol.\n Yes I realize I could have made some different decisions in my 20s and 30s that would have made this a lot easier but I was just scraping by and I made some values-based decisions about the work I wanted to do that I’ll just have to deal with. I’m genuinely excited for all of you who pull off FIRE and I hope you’ll do a lot of good in the world with the time you’ll have and freedom from jobs." }, { "id": "t1_oklhabd", "author": "/u/PatternMediocre2357", "updated": "2026-05-08T07:33:45+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/oklhabd/", "content": "When I hit $1M, I upgraded my Spotify and Pandora to premium. Basking in the gluttony of commercial free music is a constant reminder of that milestone" }, { "id": "t1_oklhirk", "author": "/u/Dat_Speed", "updated": "2026-05-08T07:35:43+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/oklhirk/", "content": "Ya the first million feels amazing for a few months, enjoy!\n Overall my life is the same from $100k to $1m ish. $2m is the new $1m really because then you can afford a very nice house in good location comfortably, find good job, good social network." }, { "id": "t1_oklr0yc", "author": "/u/YogurtclosetAdept202", "updated": "2026-05-08T08:57:28+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/oklr0yc/", "content": "Are you interested in game investment or something like that?" }, { "id": "t1_okm05wf", "author": "/u/FarChange6358", "updated": "2026-05-08T10:13:16+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okm05wf/", "content": "People are seriously pretending $1m isnt a big deal? Those people aren't grounded in reality and if it isnt a big deal its because they spend it or plan on spending it like they have $10m. With $1.5 million you can get an annuity that will pay you over $6k a month guaranteed for 25 years, thats more than a high percentage of people make yearly ffs." }, { "id": "t1_okm0y03", "author": "/u/afterbyrner", "updated": "2026-05-08T10:19:17+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okm0y03/", "content": "It’s a big deal. Especially if it’s liquid and not net worth.\n That said, I seem to always get downvoted when I say it, but the volume of “I hit $1M today!” posts on Reddit are my own personal Buffet indicator. Nothing against the posters, just a correlation I’ve noticed." }, { "id": "t1_okmaary", "author": "/u/StatementPristine381", "updated": "2026-05-08T11:25:33+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okmaary/", "content": "It is a inner self problem not a money problem" }, { "id": "t1_okmckti", "author": "/u/invain62", "updated": "2026-05-08T11:40:03+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okmckti/", "content": "Wife and I are 37 and we hit the $1M mark last year, that is invested money and not including home equity or unvested grants from work. I’m definitely the “nothing is ever good enough” type person so I have to keep reminding myself how far ahead we are compared to the average person. It’s definitely surreal seeing that much money across our accounts, we were dirt poor when we got married and it was hard to imagine having 7 figures in our 20’s scraping meager amounts together for savings. For me, the rush comes from watching the rate of compounding increase. The snowball effect is definitely real. None of our friends or family know just how much we have saved, but it does give me peace of mind that if something happened to our jobs we are pretty safe. We couldn’t enjoy the same lifestyle we do now, but we couldn’t survive just fine. That peace of mind is huge.\n The 3M and 5M numbers will come, being this close in your early 30’s is already a huge achievement." }, { "id": "t1_okmhvx1", "author": "/u/Agreeable_Ad591", "updated": "2026-05-08T12:11:29+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okmhvx1/", "content": "Because they get their number and thought it would satisfy some degree of “completeness” but it’s never enough. It just becomes a journey of accumulation, much like any HNW individual. There are a ton of people in this sub that would benefit from therapy with some of the residuals they’ve managed 😂" }, { "id": "t1_oknjlb2", "author": "/u/vrweensy", "updated": "2026-05-08T15:14:20+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/oknjlb2/", "content": "its not a big deal because if you retire with 1 million, you still shop at aldi" }, { "id": "t1_okny484", "author": "/u/stillskiing462", "updated": "2026-05-08T16:18:04+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okny484/", "content": "Rejoice this moment! That is a HUGE accomplishment!" }, { "id": "t1_okpazg0", "author": "/u/Miserable-Emu-2190", "updated": "2026-05-08T20:02:24+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okpazg0/", "content": "Be excited. The first 1M was hard...it is amazing how much faster it grows (the power of compounding) but enjoy every bit of it." }, { "id": "t1_okpb8al", "author": "/u/Miserable-Emu-2190", "updated": "2026-05-08T20:03:34+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okpb8al/", "content": "Enjoy it." }, { "id": "t1_okpoyak", "author": "/u/ZadaGrims", "updated": "2026-05-08T21:10:15+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okpoyak/", "content": "Could be no feeling because nothing changed for them yet. Still working the grind. But way less stress." }, { "id": "t1_okqa8t7", "author": "/u/Designer_Bite3869", "updated": "2026-05-08T23:08:35+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okqa8t7/", "content": "I’m at $991k and it’s so close I can taste it. I know my wife doesn’t pay near as much attention as me and I’m planning on a celebration dinner for us when we hit the number and I show her. $1mil, yeah that’s a big deal" }, { "id": "t1_okqc822", "author": "/u/monkies77", "updated": "2026-05-08T23:20:10+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okqc822/", "content": "Um how do you know you're 2 years away from $1M? If you have 600k and been YOLOing into naked call options in MU or shorting high IV puts, you may be in for a check if you think that's going to continue for 2 years. If you're at 950k and have it in a money market, you're solid." }, { "id": "t1_okqfjvz", "author": "/u/Beaoorrrrr", "updated": "2026-05-08T23:39:32+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okqfjvz/", "content": "I started out a little late in life investing but knowing what I know now I would never let my money sit and stagnate in a savings account. Manage risk, stick to your rules, and you’ll be great! 🚀🌘" }, { "id": "t1_okqfxmi", "author": "/u/Western_Rhubarb_7959", "updated": "2026-05-08T23:41:45+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okqfxmi/", "content": "When I first crossed into 7 figures I was ecstatic, and I figure anyone that doesn't feel glee at such an event needs some therapy." }, { "id": "t1_okqzrwn", "author": "/u/pocketwatchhelp2", "updated": "2026-05-09T01:43:05+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okqzrwn/", "content": "Not there yet but the bridge between $1-$2m seems long but the discipline to get to $1m should be acknowledged and celebrated" }, { "id": "t1_okr0hew", "author": "/u/marincho", "updated": "2026-05-09T01:47:28+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okr0hew/", "content": "I remember when I hit $1M. It was 1,000,060 and when I saw the balance I got really excited. The problem is, that I was in line at a pizza place and bought $80 worth of pizza. And I could not enjoy my excitement as much in the moment." }, { "id": "t1_okrbai7", "author": "/u/Dizzy_Visual2368", "updated": "2026-05-09T02:56:32+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okrbai7/", "content": "What did you invest in to get there?" }, { "id": "t1_okrigpj", "author": "/u/grumpy0282", "updated": "2026-05-09T03:46:21+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okrigpj/", "content": "im at 4.4 not too long ago\n cant seem to get to 4.5\n seems like its taking forever" }, { "id": "t1_oktaamt", "author": "/u/at614inthe614", "updated": "2026-05-09T12:38:19+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/oktaamt/", "content": "I took a screenshot of our (50, 53) Quicken account when we hit 1M. I don't really recall keeping watch on it that much prior to that. It's now just a visual reminder of that first milestone as we hit subsequent ones.\n As someone who grew up food stamp-poor in a single parent household, it serves as affirmation that between luck, perserverance and not completely abandoning the fiscally conscientious way I was raised (despite our objective financial comfort), I've had a great life so far." }, { "id": "t1_oktyjbo", "author": "/u/burner4694", "updated": "2026-05-09T14:53:38+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/oktyjbo/", "content": "I’m in Toronto, is $1 million alot? Hell yea, but also depends on what age. 1 million at 30 is ~17 million at 60, which will be a more then comfortable retirement. 1 million at 65 over here means you will probably still be very tight with money to make that last if that’s your savings.\n But 1 million in a HCOL city like Toronto still means you gotta work, still means you gotta take out a mortgage to buy a house. If you’re not smart with that million then honestly you can burn through it pretty damn quickly.\n I would argue that 1 million at a relatively young age is right at that mark where you can set your future up to be very very wealthy without worrying much about future spending." }, { "id": "t1_okuduyb", "author": "/u/Advanced_Back_9763", "updated": "2026-05-09T16:11:13+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okuduyb/", "content": "I feel super excited every time I move up to the next big number-hoping to hit 700k by end of year-exciting watching it snowball" }, { "id": "t1_okv4b51", "author": "/u/forseriousism", "updated": "2026-05-09T18:24:08+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okv4b51/", "content": "I wish I was even close :( only have 60k" }, { "id": "t1_okw02bh", "author": "/u/Curious-Mud-9718", "updated": "2026-05-09T21:16:09+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okw02bh/", "content": "i’m really interested! how do you build money? i’m looking into this but im so overloaded with information its hard to see where to start." }, { "id": "t1_okw5awb", "author": "/u/Mission-Release-5956", "updated": "2026-05-09T21:45:25+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okw5awb/", "content": "1M is a big deal, but sadly 1M seems like it buys nothing nowadays 😭 Congrats on almost being there!! What do you do for work?" }, { "id": "t1_okw8doi", "author": "/u/ReserveDismal5526", "updated": "2026-05-09T22:02:58+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okw8doi/", "content": "Hi. As of yesterday, my retirement account is at 950k. This thought process still excited me no matter what others say. My husband and I networth is about 2.1mil including our home. Not rich by NYC standard but we definitely arent struggling!!!!" }, { "id": "t1_okwbzvt", "author": "/u/Nomeismytomb", "updated": "2026-05-09T22:24:24+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okwbzvt/", "content": "It doesn't' feel like an accomplishment when your partner has more than double or triple that because they had a leg up in life...." }, { "id": "t1_okxzsv6", "author": "/u/Alive_Meeting_7228", "updated": "2026-05-10T04:53:39+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okxzsv6/", "content": "I think the issue is to link happiness with a number; I agree with you that people should feel proud of their achievement" }, { "id": "t1_okz8n3d", "author": "/u/Personal_Oil_3746", "updated": "2026-05-10T11:29:35+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okz8n3d/", "content": "Keep in mind we're still in a big transition in thinking and that financial literacy at least in the US is horrendous.\n Prior to the 1990s pensions were pretty common. Once the accounting rules changed and companies had to show their pensions were solvent, there was a mass exodus to the exits. They basically moved the pension risk to the employees (401k). Safe harbor rules hastened it even more\n The problem is that obviousky retirement is expensive and nobody wants to pay for it. Plus there is a huge rise in consumer debt that was brought on by over a decade of near zero inflation and very low interest rates. Almost a generation literally doesn't know how to save and debt financed way too much.\n This comes to a head at a time when the Social Security and Medicare "funds" run dry because they were designed around growing populations, and with rampant fraud in both programs, meaning anyone planning on retirement government benefits is in for a rude awakening over the next ten years as benefits get slashed." }, { "id": "t1_ol3mzg1", "author": "/u/hotelspa", "updated": "2026-05-11T01:32:20+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/ol3mzg1/", "content": "1m is only nothing for those that plan spending 1m in a day/week. You should be proud of yourself keep at it!" }, { "id": "t1_ol8guzx", "author": "/u/twinkledelightxo", "updated": "2026-05-11T19:17:55+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/ol8guzx/", "content": "The 'I feel nothing' posts always come from people who have been staring at the number for so long it lost meaning, but for most of us who aren't there yet it is absolutely still a massive deal." }, { "id": "t1_olai6t3", "author": "/u/home671", "updated": "2026-05-12T01:42:25+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/olai6t3/", "content": "Good for you! 👏🏼 You definitely have the right attitude, mindset & goal! Many people never set a goal & execute a plan to get to their goal and years later wonder what happened! Keep your eyes on the ball & keep going!" }, { "id": "t1_oln27ft", "author": "/u/FantasyFI", "updated": "2026-05-13T20:55:32+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/oln27ft/", "content": "The reason people don't feel anything is because it is arbitrary. It doesn't have tangible meaning. Convert to Euro's and it isnt't $1M. The month before you had $980k. Why would a little more feel any different? It's only 2% more. If you have $1.02M the next month, it's the same $20k improvement. Also $1M when I started is drastically different than it is now. And it will be drastically different when I pull the trigger on retiring.\n I felt probably the biggest emotional feeling so far when I recently hit 50% of my FIRE number. I think this is just because "half way" (quantity wise) means something. It means that from a time perspective I'm likely well over half way there, as growth will only go faster and faster.\n $1M doesn't mean anything to me. At least not vs. $980k or $1020k. You won't feel what you think you will because there isn't really much difference." }, { "id": "t1_olqxaaz", "author": "/u/ResolvePossible1129", "updated": "2026-05-14T12:13:59+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/olqxaaz/", "content": "I dont even feel like responding to this comment. but, it is meaningful for me because its not about the money" }, { "id": "t1_olrqb46", "author": "/u/FantasyFI", "updated": "2026-05-14T14:42:12+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/olrqb46/", "content": "But $1M by itself doesn't mean anything. $999k is the same as $1M which is the same as $1.001M. And in 3 years someone who hits the "same" $1M will have $85k less in buying power than what your $1M was at the time.\n You asked the question and I simply answered why no one is feeling anything. Why I didn't and why I won't when I hit $2M. I will defintelely feel something when I hit my FIRE number, which is not an exact "divisible by million" number.\n Units don't matter. Buying power matters. This is why people don't feel anything at interval numbers. But they do feel something at % intervals." }, { "id": "t1_olqoer4", "author": "/u/Dull-Presentation549", "updated": "2026-05-14T11:19:56+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/olqoer4/", "content": "Send me 1 K I will teach you how to properly meditate and you will be ALIVE inside !. Meditation is the most important skill one can have in this lifetime." }, { "id": "t1_onky4m1", "author": "/u/Mission_Rip1857", "updated": "2026-05-24T10:45:38+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/onky4m1/", "content": "It’s a big deal ! People who say otherwise had it easy very easy" }, { "id": "t1_okaoa6s", "author": "/u/neo_00_9", "updated": "2026-05-06T18:06:16+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okaoa6s/", "content": "https://www.reddit.com/r/SipsTea/comments/1t5a88r/inflation_may_have_a_say_in_this_later/" }, { "id": "t1_okaoxiw", "author": "/u/RegularWrong6570", "updated": "2026-05-06T18:09:07+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okaoxiw/", "content": "It’s not enough for most to retire off of but for us it will be a big deal as the average real return will get us over one year of expenses saved toward freedom and that’s before contributions. I view it as a critical component toward reaching our “escape velocity” and that’s definitely not nothing." }, { "id": "t1_okay2p1", "author": "/u/Kremsi2711", "updated": "2026-05-06T18:49:42+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okay2p1/", "content": "after 100k it all was just more numbers on the paper, instead of making 10k a year, you make 100k a year or more, it’s just a number in your app" }, { "id": "t1_okayehq", "author": "/u/ResolvePossible1129", "updated": "2026-05-06T18:51:10+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okayehq/", "content": "Booo" }, { "id": "t1_okb1741", "author": "/u/vngbusa", "updated": "2026-05-06T19:03:32+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okb1741/", "content": "If everyone is rich, no one is rich." }, { "id": "t1_okclefn", "author": "/u/clintttoris", "updated": "2026-05-06T23:33:07+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okclefn/", "content": "$1M in your 30s is freakn awesome! Keep it up." }, { "id": "t1_okctuvz", "author": "/u/JohnnyKage1", "updated": "2026-05-07T00:20:19+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okctuvz/", "content": "Just buy sgov and get 4% usd" }, { "id": "t1_okdzm5e", "author": "/u/Retired-Yam8988", "updated": "2026-05-07T04:33:51+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okdzm5e/", "content": "1M is a solid milestone for sure by I just totaled it up and wife and I are at 12m not including our business value (maybe 3-4m if we sell today). It feels like a ton but it really isn’t" }, { "id": "t1_oorzl68", "author": "/u/Indyxc", "updated": "2026-05-30T15:30:20+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/oorzl68/", "content": "Wife and I became millionares too a few years back. The second M comes much faster.\n Congrats! I think we celebrate with some cocktails." }, { "id": "t1_okb1nqm", "author": "/u/livin_the_life", "updated": "2026-05-06T19:05:35+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okb1nqm/", "content": "I mean....talk to us when it happens.\n We hit $1M in retirement accounts this year after a decade of saving. My husband and I essentially went....thats cool... and went back to drinking our coffee.\n The difference between $999k and $1M is a digit. Nothing really changed in our lives. Nothing really happened to our FIRE timeline.\n Honestly, $100k felt like a much bigger milestone when I achieved it." }, { "id": "t1_okbblm3", "author": "/u/helladope89", "updated": "2026-05-06T19:49:25+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okbblm3/", "content": "The difference between $99k and $100k is also a digit lol." }, { "id": "t1_okb2bsz", "author": "/u/ResolvePossible1129", "updated": "2026-05-06T19:08:31+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5ka5n/1m_is_still_a_big_deal/okb2bsz/", "content": "~You're too ~cool~ for school~" } ] }, { "source": "r/Fire top month", "id": "t3_1t9e699", "title": "we have the privilege of driving and old car because we're rich... apparently", "author": "/u/Visible_Structure483", "updated": "2026-05-10T18:05:46+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/", "content": "Only FIRE adjacent, but it was a reminder of how differently we think.\n I was at an activity group and socializing after. They're not really 'friends', just people I do one activity with and see every week. One of them bought a new car and people started talking about what they drive.\n I've got the oldest car there (13 year old minivan) and someone said "You have the privilege of driving an old car."\n I figured it was because yes, a breakdown isn't going to make me late to work, and that most trips are optional for me but her stated reason was "You're rich, no one cares what kind of car you have, the rest of us have to 'keep up'."\n Just thought I would share the irony with folks who might appreciate it.\n EDIT: they know/suspect "we're rich" because I'm RE and the wife is talking about REing as well.\n submitted by /u/Visible_Structure483\n [link] [comments]", "contentHtml": "

Only FIRE adjacent, but it was a reminder of how differently we think.

I was at an activity group and socializing after. They're not really 'friends', just people I do one activity with and see every week. One of them bought a new car and people started talking about what they drive.

I've got the oldest car there (13 year old minivan) and someone said "You have the privilege of driving an old car."

I figured it was because yes, a breakdown isn't going to make me late to work, and that most trips are optional for me but her stated reason was "You're rich, no one cares what kind of car you have, the rest of us have to 'keep up'."

Just thought I would share the irony with folks who might appreciate it.

EDIT: they know/suspect "we're rich" because I'm RE and the wife is talking about REing as well.

submitted by /u/Visible_Structure483
[link] [comments]", "comments": [ { "id": "t1_ol1cojj", "author": "/u/willtheywonttheyo", "updated": "2026-05-10T18:08:20+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol1cojj/", "content": "Weird take. If you had a brand new car they’d say ‘duh of course you do’" }, { "id": "t1_ol1iiqb", "author": "/u/ImpossibleTrouble914", "updated": "2026-05-10T18:36:11+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol1iiqb/", "content": "this is peak crab mentality right there. can't win with people like that - if you drive nice car you're showing off, if you drive old car you're "privileged" enough to not care what others think.\n meanwhile you're just driving what makes financial sense while they're stressed about keeping up with image. pretty wild how they turned your smart money choices in some kind of flex against them." }, { "id": "t1_ol1jjdg", "author": "", "updated": "2026-05-10T18:41:08+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol1jjdg/", "content": "[deleted]" }, { "id": "t1_ol2cofs", "author": "/u/ResolveNo3113", "updated": "2026-05-10T21:03:57+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol2cofs/", "content": "Have had to hear my coworker justify buying a new car recently this is spot on. Can't buy used cus there's no warranty and reliability so gotta buy a new 60-80k car, it's their only option!" }, { "id": "t1_ol2hrat", "author": "/u/B_Mugs", "updated": "2026-05-10T21:30:25+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol2hrat/", "content": "Same. Coworker needed a new battery and brakes on a 4ish year old car and justified a new car..." }, { "id": "t1_ol2l9hl", "author": "/u/screamingcarnotaurus", "updated": "2026-05-10T21:49:01+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol2l9hl/", "content": "That's a new level of impressive. Combined those would surely be less than 1 month of the new payment. Unless it was a Tesla that needed a new battery..." }, { "id": "t1_ol36wgt", "author": "/u/amish_cupcakes", "updated": "2026-05-10T23:56:23+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol36wgt/", "content": "Way back when, I was asking around about what kind of new tires I should get on my car. My one coworker response was to just get a new car. I thought he was partly serious because I was driving around the car I had in college and now had a good paying job. He however was dead serious as he had never replaced the tires on any car he had and would just buy a new car when the tire tread got low." }, { "id": "t1_ol3drlj", "author": "/u/say_chicha", "updated": "2026-05-11T00:37:27+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol3drlj/", "content": "Uh, I have a coworker who does this. She and her husband make good money. He's retired and she's semi-retired. They maintain their vehicles well so I'm going to buy the next car she sells once those tires wear down lol" }, { "id": "t1_ol3f4vd", "author": "/u/amish_cupcakes", "updated": "2026-05-11T00:45:28+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol3f4vd/", "content": "That's some good financial planning! 👍" }, { "id": "t1_ol652ab", "author": "/u/Mysterious_Prior2434", "updated": "2026-05-11T12:49:28+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol652ab/", "content": "Could you interest them in a Porsche 911? Asking for a friend." }, { "id": "t1_ol656ot", "author": "/u/therealtwomartinis", "updated": "2026-05-11T12:50:09+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol656ot/", "content": "just got my car inspected and “your brake pads are getting down near the minimum, I can write you up a quote” “great” I said “thank you”\n …already knowing that I’ll buy a set of Akebonos for $100-$110 and a few hours of wrenchin’\n they quoted me $973 👀" }, { "id": "t1_olgyqju", "author": "/u/mollypatola", "updated": "2026-05-12T23:49:24+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/olgyqju/", "content": "Wow, I just replaced a serpentine belt on mine and I’m like, okay that’ll be good for 5-7 years so I have time to debate saving up for a new car until then lol" }, { "id": "t1_olk404p", "author": "/u/Good-Ad6688", "updated": "2026-05-13T12:50:07+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/olk404p/", "content": "I just had a $2k repair on a 6 year old 70k mile car. Coworkers saying I “should just get a new car man!” This one is paid off. The cost of a new vehicle is at least 500/mo" }, { "id": "t1_ol3p5en", "author": "/u/EchoValley268", "updated": "2026-05-11T01:45:45+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol3p5en/", "content": "I had a relative say this - that as a single mom she couldn’t afford to be stranded/in an emergency/etc so needed a very reliable car. This was pre-cell phones, so I appreciate where she was coming from on that reasoning, at least. She didn’t buy expensive cars, but did buy a new one every 3 years or so." }, { "id": "t1_ol40jdv", "author": "/u/Kye7", "updated": "2026-05-11T02:56:33+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol40jdv/", "content": "How did that work out for her?" }, { "id": "t1_ol1mce4", "author": "/u/OrbitAngell", "updated": "2026-05-10T18:54:42+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol1mce4/", "content": "they’ll twist anything meanwhile you’re just chilling" }, { "id": "t1_ol1n4qm", "author": "/u/PettyKoala5364", "updated": "2026-05-10T18:58:29+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol1n4qm/", "content": "They love to rearrange your words all the while you’re just relaxing" }, { "id": "t1_ol1kt8i", "author": "/u/South-Attorney-5209", "updated": "2026-05-10T18:47:17+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol1kt8i/", "content": "Life is full of people who spend all their time worrying about other people and back explaining why they made their choice." }, { "id": "t1_ol24f79", "author": "/u/OregonGrown34", "updated": "2026-05-10T20:22:40+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol24f79/", "content": "Guess I've been privileged for a long time... stopped giving any fucks about what other people think so long ago. I guess I should be surprised I even got married along the way." }, { "id": "t1_ol1pcib", "author": "/u/np0x", "updated": "2026-05-10T19:09:19+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol1pcib/", "content": "Is CRAB an acronym I don’t know? I know crabby people…but this feels like more…and man that is a weird take on your car choice and their rationalizations… mind blown." }, { "id": "t1_ol29d3x", "author": "/u/GentlemanlyMeadow", "updated": "2026-05-10T20:47:15+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol29d3x/", "content": "Can't Retire, Always Buying\n (also Always Bitching....)" }, { "id": "t1_ol1x5di", "author": "/u/Future-looker1996", "updated": "2026-05-10T19:46:57+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol1x5di/", "content": "Crabs try to climb up and are happy to step on other crabs, and then the whole pile can tend to fall back to the bottom as they all thoughtlessly keep stepping on each other. It’s all they know." }, { "id": "t1_ol22v1h", "author": "/u/odanobux123", "updated": "2026-05-10T20:15:03+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol22v1h/", "content": "It’s more that they drag the top crab down any time it’s about to get out. They all want out but they won’t let each other escape" }, { "id": "t1_ol2aw2p", "author": "/u/MrLB____", "updated": "2026-05-10T20:54:53+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol2aw2p/", "content": "⬆️⬆️⬆️⬆️\n Yes, that is the crab mentality." }, { "id": "t1_ol26dbt", "author": "/u/np0x", "updated": "2026-05-10T20:32:20+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol26dbt/", "content": "thanks to both of you, i totally have never heard that before..it's like "keeping down with the other jones's"...makes sense, doesn't make sense, people are crazy." }, { "id": "t1_ol3il6l", "author": "/u/youngishgeezer", "updated": "2026-05-11T01:05:41+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol3il6l/", "content": "But the crabs are not doing it to bring the top crab down, it's just something they can reach so it's understandable. People are worse in many ways." }, { "id": "t1_ol1v1h3", "author": "/u/star-farm", "updated": "2026-05-10T19:36:41+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol1v1h3/", "content": "Crabs in a bucket?" }, { "id": "t1_ol1mgfw", "author": "/u/OrbitAngell", "updated": "2026-05-10T18:55:15+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol1mgfw/", "content": "Crabs gonna crab meanwhile you’re just being smart with your money" }, { "id": "t1_ol1n5mc", "author": "/u/DKtwilight", "updated": "2026-05-10T18:58:36+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol1n5mc/", "content": "The usual Jones trap keeping the poors poor. Because yolo" }, { "id": "t1_ol2c3yb", "author": "/u/Necessary-Music-6685", "updated": "2026-05-10T21:01:03+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol2c3yb/", "content": "Yes, of course. OP is completely misunderstanding the situation. This comment isn’t an example of how people think about cars or consumption. It’s simply evidence that people resent him because he has money." }, { "id": "t1_ol1x6m5", "author": "/u/Possible-Cry-7994", "updated": "2026-05-10T19:47:08+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol1x6m5/", "content": "It’s like” “duh, we know you are smarter” lol" }, { "id": "t1_ol3564i", "author": "/u/subtle_lure", "updated": "2026-05-10T23:46:02+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol3564i/", "content": "is genuinely wild mental gymnastics" }, { "id": "t1_ol35v9w", "author": "/u/Psynaut", "updated": "2026-05-10T23:50:12+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol35v9w/", "content": "They've been in the Cpoium Den getting high on Copium and have lost all reason in their Copium drug induced delirium." }, { "id": "t1_ol3dbyq", "author": "/u/BabyJesusAnalingus", "updated": "2026-05-11T00:34:50+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol3dbyq/", "content": "Crazy part is that crab mentality is a huge part of this sub sometimes too." }, { "id": "t1_ol65ck7", "author": "/u/CinderLakeAzure", "updated": "2026-05-11T12:51:02+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol65ck7/", "content": "You literally can’t win with these kinds of people. If you buy a nice car, you’re ‘showing off.’ If you keep an old reliable one, suddenly you’re ‘privileged enough not to care.’ They’ll twist anything into a problem." }, { "id": "t1_ol1lebc", "author": "/u/Odin_3406", "updated": "2026-05-10T18:50:08+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol1lebc/", "content": "This" }, { "id": "t1_ol1m94c", "author": "/u/OrbitAngell", "updated": "2026-05-10T18:54:16+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol1m94c/", "content": "they’ll spin it either way can’t win" }, { "id": "t1_ol1ztkm", "author": "/u/mister_empty_pants", "updated": "2026-05-10T20:00:03+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol1ztkm/", "content": "OP encountered an average Redditor in the wild" }, { "id": "t1_ol6e6ah", "author": "/u/Specific-Action-8993", "updated": "2026-05-11T13:37:35+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol6e6ah/", "content": "Aside from the irony of not seeing the correlation between frugality and wealth, could the guy also not see the irony of "needing to keep up" when he perceives driving an old car as a sign of wealth? This is someone who really lacks the ability to self-reflect." }, { "id": "t1_ol22sap", "author": "/u/Objective_Swim_1455", "updated": "2026-05-10T20:14:40+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol22sap/", "content": "Its a weird take because its made up. Its just slop to farm karma from people who act superior because they drive a toyota\n Probably also why OP has their history hidden" }, { "id": "t1_ol2k3t2", "author": "/u/willtheywonttheyo", "updated": "2026-05-10T21:42:48+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol2k3t2/", "content": "Prob right, but I hide mine too" }, { "id": "t1_ol1ct9j", "author": "/u/Jojosbees", "updated": "2026-05-10T18:08:55+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol1ct9j/", "content": "”You're rich, no one cares what kind of car you have, the rest of us have to 'keep up'."\n Why do they have to “keep up”?" }, { "id": "t1_ol1dl1b", "author": "/u/TenOfZero", "updated": "2026-05-10T18:12:30+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol1dl1b/", "content": "And how is buying a new car keeping up?" }, { "id": "t1_ol1e321", "author": "/u/Key-Structure4841", "updated": "2026-05-10T18:14:50+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol1e321/", "content": "And what makes them think people care about it?" }, { "id": "t1_ol1hzw8", "author": "/u/ItIsVerilySo", "updated": "2026-05-10T18:33:36+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol1hzw8/", "content": "Some fields it does genuinely matter what your clients think. Think, American Psycho type sales positions, or CEO level stuff." }, { "id": "t1_ol1kyo9", "author": "/u/gravyjackz", "updated": "2026-05-10T18:48:01+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol1kyo9/", "content": "Yes, and…nobody knows that your 9 year old (well-maintained) Lexus is all that different than a financed brand new one.\n People just love to spend because they don’t see how the additional 500-1500 per month for an entire working career adds up to the difference in financial stability (for upper-middle class types)" }, { "id": "t1_ol550vn", "author": "", "updated": "2026-05-11T08:24:45+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol550vn/", "content": "[deleted]" }, { "id": "t1_ol5lhtc", "author": "/u/Mysterious_Prior2434", "updated": "2026-05-11T10:45:14+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol5lhtc/", "content": "I don't think the extra 800 a months amounts to such a big difference in retirement quality of life at higher income levels as it does at the lower income levels. It is same amount of money but its value is relative. Diminishing returns and what not." }, { "id": "t1_ol5rpq9", "author": "/u/gravyjackz", "updated": "2026-05-11T11:28:41+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol5rpq9/", "content": "800 per month for 25 years at 4% - $400k, at 6% - $525k, at 8% - $725k\n Take the average net worth at retirement age (55-65ish) and compare it to just this excess created by not driving brand new cars on payments all the time and I think you’ll agree it would make a huge difference." }, { "id": "t1_ol63uoi", "author": "/u/Mysterious_Prior2434", "updated": "2026-05-11T12:42:43+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol63uoi/", "content": "My comment specifically referred to higher income levels. Not average. If I have >5 million liquid the utility I can drive from the extra 700k when old and retired is arguably smaller than the utility I likely derived from spending the extra $800 every month.\n There is only so much you can do with money when your body starts to fail you. I would probably argue that at such income levels that extra $800 is best spent on ensuring future health, not on amassing even bigger pile." }, { "id": "t1_ol6he1c", "author": "/u/gravyjackz", "updated": "2026-05-11T13:53:32+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol6he1c/", "content": "3% of US households have a >5 million dollar net worth while ~70% of US households have auto loan debt.\n I’m not really concerned with the top net worth group driving expensive cars, I’m concerned that middle and upper middle class people drive expensive cars when they objectively cannot afford it (if adequate retirement savings is a measure of affordability, which it is to me).\n I just think your thought process is flawed on this, no worries though." }, { "id": "t1_ol3yz1x", "author": "/u/Mysterious_Prior2434", "updated": "2026-05-11T02:46:10+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol3yz1x/", "content": "I would say most will happily trade financial stability for higher status. They think they can buffer financial instability with mental energy and they aren't completely wrong. They are willing to expend the mental resources and take a risk to have higher status." }, { "id": "t1_ol292z9", "author": "/u/ItIsVerilySo", "updated": "2026-05-10T20:45:51+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol292z9/", "content": "First, yeah, plenty of people know the difference, a 2019 and a 2026 Lexus aren't the same car. They're physically different.\n Second, yeah, you're right, as long as the car generally fits the status you're trying to show (assuming you're in a field where that's necessary) you don't need to spend all your money on the newest hottest thing." }, { "id": "t1_ol42nbs", "author": "/u/Sufficient-Spend-939", "updated": "2026-05-11T03:10:58+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol42nbs/", "content": "I bought an 8 year old lexus when i was doing real estate i paid cash and kept it clean and looking nice. I would get compliments from clients and they would be driving hondas that they were on the hook for 4 times as much money for but they were convinced i somehow had arrived. I hadnt but i was 15000 closer and still got enough status to get me by and real estate is one of those dumb jobs where people care about your car." }, { "id": "t1_ol43oue", "author": "/u/HopeLivingston", "updated": "2026-05-11T03:18:13+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol43oue/", "content": "Yes—as the owner of a 2016 Lexus (bought a couple of years ago)—people who worry about “keeping up” definitely know it’s not the same as a new one. Do love the feeling of driving in a bubble of comfort it gives me tho. Not much tech in it, which a lot of people value, but I’m perfectly happy. Plan to drive it for many more years. Only bought it bc my 12 year old Honda was totaled." }, { "id": "t1_ol65wap", "author": "/u/Beginning-Seaweed-67", "updated": "2026-05-11T12:54:03+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol65wap/", "content": "I agree they should should buy a use model 3 tesla instead so that they have a gas and a separate electric car. Folks think model 3 is a poor mans car but they don’t see all the savings associated with being able to go electric for daily commutes." }, { "id": "t1_ol229bz", "author": "/u/Signal-Angle8454", "updated": "2026-05-10T20:12:04+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol229bz/", "content": "The factory manager at work drives a beat up minivan to work First thing I thought: "He's hiding the Porsche at home."" }, { "id": "t1_ol39hv5", "author": "/u/thabc", "updated": "2026-05-11T00:12:10+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol39hv5/", "content": "Nah, he found peak automobile and he's sticking with it." }, { "id": "t1_ol6mflp", "author": "/u/worktogethernow", "updated": "2026-05-11T14:17:43+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol6mflp/", "content": "Man. If I knew then what I know now I would have bought minivan in my 20s. Haul a bunch of people, haul a bunch of stuff, fold all the seats down and live in it traveling as a 1 or 2 person group." }, { "id": "t1_ol5nzdf", "author": "/u/alpacaMyToothbrush", "updated": "2026-05-11T11:02:59+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol5nzdf/", "content": "I have to stop the 'frugality equals virtue' train here. There have been recent advances in the development of high strength steel in automotive safety. If the vehicle you're driving is over a decade old, and you have a family you're gambling with your lives. I say this as someone with a 20 year old car that I won't sell for dumb, sentimental reasons. At least I'm single and the only life I gamble with is my own." }, { "id": "t1_ol6iqry", "author": "/u/Spirited_Currency867", "updated": "2026-05-11T14:00:07+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol6iqry/", "content": "25 year old Land Cruiser has entered the chat. Also, 44 year old LC right behind it." }, { "id": "t1_ol6sf8y", "author": "/u/alpacaMyToothbrush", "updated": "2026-05-11T14:46:00+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol6sf8y/", "content": "Hey at least with the land cruiser I'd bet you're keeping it for offroading. The guy with the 'beat up minivan' has me concerned about him getting t-boned on the way to a tball game" }, { "id": "t1_ol6ub77", "author": "/u/Spirited_Currency867", "updated": "2026-05-11T14:54:39+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol6ub77/", "content": "Eventually, when it gets too unreliable for daily use, it’ll be used for wheeling exclusively. I still wouldn’t hesitate to drive it cross-country at a moment’s notice, even at 205k. The older one is definitely for weekends at this point, but only because of comfort." }, { "id": "t1_ol80huq", "author": "/u/PilatesPuppy", "updated": "2026-05-11T18:02:46+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol80huq/", "content": "2013 Honda Pilot 🙋🏻‍♀️" }, { "id": "t1_ol5z6pg", "author": "/u/vulkoriscoming", "updated": "2026-05-11T12:15:30+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol5z6pg/", "content": "He just doesn't want a car that owns him. My second car was a nice looking sports car. That car owned me. I could only park it certain places where it wouldn't get dinged or hurt. I had to be careful to only drive on good pavement. I had to be really careful about speed bumps.\n I eventually sold it and bought a truck. Much better. I don't worry about the truck at all. I drive where I please. It gets dinged, so what. It's a truck. I own the truck. It doesn't own me." }, { "id": "t1_ol9fzwl", "author": "/u/Transition-1744", "updated": "2026-05-11T22:04:18+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol9fzwl/", "content": "I agree! Older vehicle much less worry. Your car shouldn’t own you." }, { "id": "t1_olbdzc7", "author": "/u/Classic-Night-611", "updated": "2026-05-12T05:10:35+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/olbdzc7/", "content": "This is what I am noticing between my old car and new car now 😅 Bought a Porsche Macan with cad wrap and am driving it so carefully especially parking. Also thinking ahead of where I wouldn't feel comfortable parking it. Whereas I had no concerns with my old car even about break-ins. Didn't get collision insurance either. But I eventually had to trade it in because the cost of fixing it was more than the car. Anywho will see how long I have this Porsche for, and enjoy the experience for now." }, { "id": "t1_olckzgw", "author": "/u/Ill_Savings_8338", "updated": "2026-05-12T11:06:15+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/olckzgw/", "content": "I bought a new truck for $38k, thanks to incidental damage from wind, tornado, etc, I've gotten 9k in insurance payments, still the same truck, just some dings / damage and no desire to repair it" }, { "id": "t1_ole0jev", "author": "/u/MAHANC", "updated": "2026-05-12T15:31:17+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ole0jev/", "content": "Cant tell you how much peace of mind tjay gave me. I dro e my truck for 24 years. All scrat hef and dinged up. It was great" }, { "id": "t1_olio3om", "author": "/u/Psiwolf", "updated": "2026-05-13T06:20:41+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/olio3om/", "content": "As someone who owns and daily drives a 2024 M4 convertible, paint protection film is your friend. PPF has given me such piece of mind, that I got it for all 3 of my last car purchases. 😁👍" }, { "id": "t1_olyrsxz", "author": "/u/An_Only_Mous", "updated": "2026-05-15T15:25:30+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/olyrsxz/", "content": "Which part of globe if i may ask plz?" }, { "id": "t1_om1zz7h", "author": "/u/vulkoriscoming", "updated": "2026-05-16T01:24:03+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/om1zz7h/", "content": "US" }, { "id": "t1_ol5zye1", "author": "/u/gorogergo", "updated": "2026-05-11T12:20:05+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol5zye1/", "content": "I used to drive an old Porsche 911 to work. I really enjoy working on cars and drive old German stuff. One of my friends gave me a very light hard time about it, but he spent 2.5 times what I did for his Honda Odyssey." }, { "id": "t1_ol25g8j", "author": "/u/Rabbit-Lost", "updated": "2026-05-10T20:27:48+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol25g8j/", "content": "In some professions. CEOs and managing partners are expected to be low key about their wealth." }, { "id": "t1_ol28gsu", "author": "/u/ItIsVerilySo", "updated": "2026-05-10T20:42:45+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol28gsu/", "content": "Sure, it's not the same across the board" }, { "id": "t1_ol1zzsc", "author": "/u/oatknight", "updated": "2026-05-10T20:00:54+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol1zzsc/", "content": "That's right, can you imagine what would happen if Mark Zuckerberg drove to work in a Camry? He'd be laughed out of Facebook and the board would replace him with Larry Ellison." }, { "id": "t1_ol28qay", "author": "/u/ItIsVerilySo", "updated": "2026-05-10T20:44:04+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol28qay/", "content": "If the Big Zuck drove a Camry I think the board would take all of his money and execute him by firing squad, no way they'd let a poor run Facebook" }, { "id": "t1_ol2ofd9", "author": "/u/HackVT", "updated": "2026-05-10T22:06:34+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol2ofd9/", "content": "He did drive a GTI for a while there and then leaned so hard into being a Bond villain." }, { "id": "t1_ol41b97", "author": "/u/Odd_Passenger5339", "updated": "2026-05-11T03:01:45+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol41b97/", "content": "I’d add realtor to this." }, { "id": "t1_ol5tnek", "author": "/u/carolbeau", "updated": "2026-05-11T11:41:26+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol5tnek/", "content": "New goal for today: Use "American Psycho type" (or just "American Psycho" for short) as an adjective." }, { "id": "t1_ol8n157", "author": "/u/ItIsVerilySo", "updated": "2026-05-11T19:46:30+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol8n157/", "content": "I'm a big fan of turning things into adjectives. I feel I got my point across so much better using American Psycho to describe my point than if I actually tried to describe it" }, { "id": "t1_ol8ec3d", "author": "/u/Cheesegasm", "updated": "2026-05-11T19:06:18+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol8ec3d/", "content": "Realtor. Imagine driving clients all over town to look at million dollar homes in a 2001 Civic" }, { "id": "t1_old62sl", "author": "/u/Strazdas1", "updated": "2026-05-12T13:09:04+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/old62sl/", "content": "That would be great. The client will think you really are not taking much in commission and giving them a good deal at your expense." }, { "id": "t1_old5nfj", "author": "/u/Strazdas1", "updated": "2026-05-12T13:06:54+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/old5nfj/", "content": "Yes, in those fields when you drive an expensive car you are usually seen with suspicion." }, { "id": "t1_ol1en3e", "author": "/u/Fair-Search-2324", "updated": "2026-05-10T18:17:27+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol1en3e/", "content": "It’s an object one can brag about. Stating your number is gauche. Sorta /s" }, { "id": "t1_olaxk4v", "author": "/u/StonksMcGee", "updated": "2026-05-12T03:14:41+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/olaxk4v/", "content": "I had a buddy brag to a group of friends about how he and his wife used her “five figure bonus” to buy a Model Y with fsd (of all things). At the time it felt odd that he mentioned it, but in hindsight it makes sense. To some, it’s status and it feels good to brag about it, almost uplifting. “Frog’s knee”-level depth." }, { "id": "t1_ol3an0q", "author": "/u/ThisUsernameIsTook", "updated": "2026-05-11T00:19:13+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol3an0q/", "content": "Probably live in an HOA neighborhood but have to park their oversized car in the driveway because the garage is full of “stuff” or the cheap builder didn’t make it deep enough.\n Everyone KNOWS what they drive and they feel judged." }, { "id": "t1_ol7bny0", "author": "/u/cfi-2025", "updated": "2026-05-11T16:12:37+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol7bny0/", "content": "I always loved Dave Ramsey's line, "We buy things we don't need with money we don't have to impress people we don't like."" }, { "id": "t1_ol66rq0", "author": "/u/Advendocture", "updated": "2026-05-11T12:58:50+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol66rq0/", "content": "American media" }, { "id": "t1_ol1eonz", "author": "", "updated": "2026-05-10T18:17:39+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol1eonz/", "content": "[deleted]" }, { "id": "t1_ol1gfgo", "author": "/u/seopants", "updated": "2026-05-10T18:26:00+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol1gfgo/", "content": "I have a customer that has over $200,000 in cars in her driveway (two cars). She has to schedule the date to run the payment for my service, about $130, so she doesn’t overdraft." }, { "id": "t1_ol1pasj", "author": "/u/Liesmyteachertoldme", "updated": "2026-05-10T19:09:05+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol1pasj/", "content": "JFC, that’s insanity," }, { "id": "t1_ol3b2pr", "author": "/u/diablo4megafan", "updated": "2026-05-11T00:21:53+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol3b2pr/", "content": "lol i see stuff like this all the time at a car dealership. brand new car but they have have to do payments to pay for insurance on it (which usually tacks an exorbitant fee onto their insurance bill), expensive older car but they freak out if they need tires, ect\n the dealership has honestly flipped the perception for me, if you have an expensive car now i assume you are broke until otherwise demonstrated" }, { "id": "t1_ol4ol7p", "author": "/u/GrgaPrticRomanul", "updated": "2026-05-11T05:59:39+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol4ol7p/", "content": "So if I pull up in my 2002 Elantra what would you think?" }, { "id": "t1_old6f3e", "author": "/u/Strazdas1", "updated": "2026-05-12T13:10:46+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/old6f3e/", "content": "Financially responsible." }, { "id": "t1_ol1z0pa", "author": "/u/ImpossibleEstimate56", "updated": "2026-05-10T19:56:09+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol1z0pa/", "content": "Wtf.." }, { "id": "t1_ol1lwqt", "author": "/u/Letsrunaway12", "updated": "2026-05-10T18:52:37+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol1lwqt/", "content": "We call that “all hat and no cattle” down here in Texas. I drive a 12 year old minivan with a dent in side and I’m sure everyone thinks we’re scraping by." }, { "id": "t1_ol2ukg1", "author": "/u/Intelligent_Lead7724", "updated": "2026-05-10T22:42:54+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol2ukg1/", "content": "22 year old minivan here, and 8 figures NW" }, { "id": "t1_ol5aehp", "author": "/u/whocaresreallythrow", "updated": "2026-05-11T09:13:09+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol5aehp/", "content": "18 year old Honda CRV.\n Zero fucks to give. I always wonder are people that stupid to think their little peacock show of a fancy new car with huge payments impresses others ?\n I have never understood how society doesn’t know this one hack / trick already …." }, { "id": "t1_olz9h77", "author": "/u/Sue-Jones-123456", "updated": "2026-05-15T16:47:08+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/olz9h77/", "content": "Exactly. We don’t need or care to “keep up with the Joneses”. We are not status conscious like so many other people. We’re practical and down to earth. Care more about quality and the specifications than the glitz and glam." }, { "id": "t1_olc95bg", "author": "/u/baconcakeguy", "updated": "2026-05-12T09:35:49+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/olc95bg/", "content": "If that’s your only vehicle go buy a new one… what are saving that much for?" }, { "id": "t1_ol1nk51", "author": "", "updated": "2026-05-10T19:00:32+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol1nk51/", "content": "[deleted]" }, { "id": "t1_ol1spup", "author": "/u/Appropriate-Date6407", "updated": "2026-05-10T19:25:26+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol1spup/", "content": "I drive a 20 year old truck that I bought new. I use it all the time for yard work and moving large items, I can’t imagine going back to not having a truck at this point. Haven’t had a car payment since 2009, and both my vehicles run great." }, { "id": "t1_olmqb4a", "author": "/u/PHL1365", "updated": "2026-05-13T19:58:54+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/olmqb4a/", "content": "Lots of them everywhere. Most don't venture off paved roads except for the occasional soccer field." }, { "id": "t1_ol1r640", "author": "/u/DiligentPeak1929", "updated": "2026-05-10T19:18:12+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol1r640/", "content": "Husband and I were just talking about this today. My plan is to own nothing newer than a 2018 for as long as I possibly can. Even if that's into my 70's. I'm not yet 40." }, { "id": "t1_ol3ve3p", "author": "", "updated": "2026-05-11T02:23:31+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol3ve3p/", "content": "[deleted]" }, { "id": "t1_ol3xh9e", "author": "/u/DiligentPeak1929", "updated": "2026-05-11T02:36:30+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol3xh9e/", "content": "Because as long a my husband is still capable of fixing our own vehicles it's better to have cars that the government can't shut down, and use parts manufactured prior to COVID." }, { "id": "t1_ol3xrb7", "author": "", "updated": "2026-05-11T02:38:19+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol3xrb7/", "content": "[deleted]" }, { "id": "t1_ol3yllq", "author": "/u/DiligentPeak1929", "updated": "2026-05-11T02:43:43+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol3yllq/", "content": "Follow any of the talks about cars since 2020 and you'll see the issues with parts. It's way worse than prior." }, { "id": "t1_olz9w8g", "author": "/u/Sue-Jones-123456", "updated": "2026-05-15T16:49:02+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/olz9w8g/", "content": "2008 civic here. It’s been a great car overall. Honda has been a company that stands behind their product eg air bags issue and engine rebuild." }, { "id": "t1_olinilb", "author": "/u/Psiwolf", "updated": "2026-05-13T06:15:52+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/olinilb/", "content": "My Honda Accord is 18 years old and I park it on the curb in front of my house. However, I also happen to own one of the more expensive homes in our gated community, so I have no idea what my neighbors think. 😆" }, { "id": "t1_oly29gp", "author": "/u/renbutler2", "updated": "2026-05-15T13:22:36+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/oly29gp/", "content": "I just bought a 2009 Honda Accord with under 90,000 miles on it. Upgraded from my $2,000 2010 Ford focus, which I gave to my teen son." }, { "id": "t1_olz90az", "author": "/u/Sue-Jones-123456", "updated": "2026-05-15T16:45:00+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/olz90az/", "content": "Same." }, { "id": "t1_ol1jrmp", "author": "/u/Wolfdagon", "updated": "2026-05-10T18:42:15+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol1jrmp/", "content": "I have a brother-in-law like this. For probably 15 years or more, he has made at least double what my wife and I make combined, He has filled bankruptcy at least twice (probably more). He has lost multiple houses and always blames it on someone else. He always spends way more than he makes. He will be 66 this year. I don't know if he will ever be able to retire." }, { "id": "t1_ol2g4cg", "author": "/u/Beetlejuice_me", "updated": "2026-05-10T21:21:45+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol2g4cg/", "content": "You would understand if you too had a brand new, shiny Mitsubishi Mirage in the driveway!" }, { "id": "t1_ol5wh27", "author": "/u/DickWhittingtonsCat", "updated": "2026-05-11T11:59:09+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol5wh27/", "content": "This whole conversation was clearly fabricated. But there is no doubt a large segment of people on the planet who aspire to more luxury features in a vehicle and feel they are too good (or simply unsafe and uncomfortable) driving an older car.\n My personal cutoff is the aughts. Before they improved crash tests, just about anything but a Volvo or RWD Lexus LS or German executive sedan was a total death trap. Plenty of video on this can be found.\n That includes Silverados, F150s, Explorers. Crown Vics. Cadillacs. Lincoln’s. Nice mini vans. Obviously subcompacts and smaller vehicles are not good- although not necessarily that much worse in the offset test.\n A few of the FWDs like the Accord and Camry are okayish but still ridiculous by modern standards.\n Ford had to literally redesign the F150 at start of century because it telescoped like an asp." }, { "id": "t1_ol4hrol", "author": "/u/hokiemojo", "updated": "2026-05-11T05:03:15+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol4hrol/", "content": "Sounds like they are falling behind" }, { "id": "t1_ol6tsve", "author": "/u/MAXIMAL_GABRIEL", "updated": "2026-05-11T14:52:20+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol6tsve/", "content": "Maybe they meant in terms of debt accumulation." }, { "id": "t1_ol2kr43", "author": "/u/NegativeSemicolon", "updated": "2026-05-10T21:46:18+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol2kr43/", "content": "TBF they probably need a new (or newer) car because they can’t afford for it to breakdown (either for cost, time, or both)." }, { "id": "t1_ol1i4rj", "author": "/u/Sue-Jones-123456", "updated": "2026-05-10T18:34:16+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol1i4rj/", "content": "Maybe she can afford the luxury of her car breaking down with kids in it because she’s retired early (so to these working moms she must be rich). She doesn’t have to worry about being late for work, appointments, kids’ soccer practices (because the coach must be in her pocket because she’s rich) etc." }, { "id": "t1_ol25105", "author": "/u/No_Home_708", "updated": "2026-05-10T20:25:44+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol25105/", "content": "You get 2 beaters for this reason. Swap em out when one needs repairs or to be replaced." }, { "id": "t1_ol3a3iy", "author": "/u/diablo4megafan", "updated": "2026-05-11T00:15:51+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol3a3iy/", "content": "unless you're buying literal thousand dollar cars, a breakdown that immediately makes you unable to drive anywhere in the short term is exceedingly rare, and it's very easy to just rent a car to solve medium term concerns\n also if your household has 2 cars it really barely is an inconvenience at all" }, { "id": "t1_olz8x91", "author": "/u/Sue-Jones-123456", "updated": "2026-05-15T16:44:37+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/olz8x91/", "content": "We owned average well maintained vehicles and we’ve been stranded quite a few times. Luckily we have AAA." }, { "id": "t1_ol1dsl4", "author": "/u/To_WAR", "updated": "2026-05-10T18:13:29+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol1dsl4/", "content": "Bigger question, keep up with whom?" }, { "id": "t1_ol1fj3n", "author": "/u/ReBoomAutardationism", "updated": "2026-05-10T18:21:41+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol1fj3n/", "content": "The Smiths. The Joneses were stupid enough to drink kool-aid they didn't make for themselves." }, { "id": "t1_ol1hplf", "author": "/u/To_WAR", "updated": "2026-05-10T18:32:13+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol1hplf/", "content": "Ahh yes, the Joneses from Jonestown, I think I heard about them!" }, { "id": "t1_ol42bnj", "author": "/u/Awkward_Basis7533", "updated": "2026-05-11T03:08:45+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol42bnj/", "content": "FlavorAid technically" }, { "id": "t1_ol1ga3m", "author": "/u/Electrical_Wonder596", "updated": "2026-05-10T18:25:17+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol1ga3m/", "content": "Yep because clearly they aren’t keeping up with OP who is “rich”. If they were, they’d have old cars!" }, { "id": "t1_ol6rp4a", "author": "/u/Wonderful-Process792", "updated": "2026-05-11T14:42:36+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol6rp4a/", "content": "All the other real estate agents." }, { "id": "t1_ol1ldet", "author": "/u/Select-Touch-6794", "updated": "2026-05-10T18:50:01+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol1ldet/", "content": "The best fatherly advice I ever received was: You wouldn’t worry what people think of you, once you realize how seldom they do." }, { "id": "t1_ol5zl2b", "author": "/u/vulkoriscoming", "updated": "2026-05-11T12:17:53+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol5zl2b/", "content": "Wise advice. I say something similar. But this is way more succinct." }, { "id": "t1_ol1lsg1", "author": "/u/Lady-Cane", "updated": "2026-05-10T18:52:03+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol1lsg1/", "content": "My same reaction. I think the concept of not having a car payment and not getting a new car every 4 years just doesn’t occur to some ppl. Very obedient consumers." }, { "id": "t1_ol8eag3", "author": "/u/Alternative_Dig5342", "updated": "2026-05-11T19:06:05+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol8eag3/", "content": "this is great and scares me at the same time." }, { "id": "t1_ol1ekae", "author": "/u/red_fuel", "updated": "2026-05-10T18:17:05+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol1ekae/", "content": "Keep up appearances? Weird take. You shouldn't care what people think but unfortunately for some people it's hard and they take on endless debt to appear 'cool' to people who don't even notice them" }, { "id": "t1_ol1g1ny", "author": "/u/AuthorKRPaul", "updated": "2026-05-10T18:24:10+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol1g1ny/", "content": "Keep up? Sweet buy a 2004 Honda civic for $1k and save the other $44k you were going to pay for a new car. Bet you’ll have enough left over to keep her running! OPs acquaintances are wild!" }, { "id": "t1_ol1p09c", "author": "/u/Unboxious", "updated": "2026-05-10T19:07:39+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol1p09c/", "content": "Good luck finding anything resembling a 2004 Honda Civic for $1k these days though!" }, { "id": "t1_ol27gy4", "author": "/u/AuthorKRPaul", "updated": "2026-05-10T20:37:48+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol27gy4/", "content": "TBH I have no idea what one is worth. I'm still driving my Subaru Outback and plan to hold on to it until my kiddo is ready to drive in a few years. Then its her ride and I'll finally upgrade" }, { "id": "t1_ol2nees", "author": "/u/Standard-Juice-3738", "updated": "2026-05-10T22:00:43+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol2nees/", "content": "You can’t find a decent used car for under $10k these days honestly. A clapped out Civic is like 3 to 4k" }, { "id": "t1_ol2p1tc", "author": "/u/AuthorKRPaul", "updated": "2026-05-10T22:10:13+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol2p1tc/", "content": "Decent? No. Running? Yes. I think my stepsons was 3 or 4k. It runs, it needs a lot of love every other month, but it gets him to and from both work and school, with working AC" }, { "id": "t1_ol2va3u", "author": "/u/Intelligent_Lead7724", "updated": "2026-05-10T22:47:10+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol2va3u/", "content": "I agree if it starts and goes in gear you are at $3k. I do find plenty of reasonable cars I would let my kids drive from $5k." }, { "id": "t1_ol1hej8", "author": "/u/ThrowawayLDS_7gen", "updated": "2026-05-10T18:30:44+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol1hej8/", "content": "Drove a 1996 Honda for 17 years. I still miss that car. My husband made me sell it when it was stolen for the 3rd time because we didn't have a garage." }, { "id": "t1_ol1rqgy", "author": "/u/randomthrowaway9796", "updated": "2026-05-10T19:20:53+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol1rqgy/", "content": "Because what if Jessica from accounting happens to sees them get out of their car one morning before work??? /s" }, { "id": "t1_ol2h7so", "author": "/u/organic_neophyte", "updated": "2026-05-10T21:27:31+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol2h7so/", "content": "This is huge in some cultures, it's a terrible mentality IMO but lots of people fall for it." }, { "id": "t1_ol24vqq", "author": "/u/81toog", "updated": "2026-05-10T20:25:00+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol24vqq/", "content": "They have to buy things they don’t need to impress people they don’t like" }, { "id": "t1_ol4ouyl", "author": "/u/GrgaPrticRomanul", "updated": "2026-05-11T06:01:57+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol4ouyl/", "content": ".. with money they don't have..., slap in the middle there" }, { "id": "t1_ol1pdxz", "author": "/u/RockItGuyDC", "updated": "2026-05-10T19:09:31+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol1pdxz/", "content": "They have to keep up because they've been infected with a fucking mind worm. The worm was created to keep working people working, ideally until death, so that billionaires can take everything while we fight for scraps." }, { "id": "t1_ol645q9", "author": "/u/passwordistako", "updated": "2026-05-11T12:44:27+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol645q9/", "content": "They don’t. It’s cognitive dissonance.\n I’m proud of my shitty cars." }, { "id": "t1_ol1ih9j", "author": "/u/Similar_Pension_4233", "updated": "2026-05-10T18:35:59+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol1ih9j/", "content": "It's an interesting take. When you're poor you have to take less risk, and for this reason need to spend more money on a reliable car, but if you're rich, you can take on more risk and it's OK if you'd drive a less reliable car\n Another take. You're the same owner and so you know the car and for this reason it's OK to drive an old car because you it's reliable. The others have to still make this purchase and for this reason you drive and and we are (just now) driving new.\n I'm not saying I agree or disagree, but explaining the thinking behind it" }, { "id": "t1_ol1l9n0", "author": "/u/QuickAltTab", "updated": "2026-05-10T18:49:30+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol1l9n0/", "content": "I don't think there was nearly that much thinking going on from whoever made that statement" }, { "id": "t1_ol1ktmx", "author": "/u/Jojosbees", "updated": "2026-05-10T18:47:21+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol1ktmx/", "content": "For the second point, assuming these people aren’t like 23 buying their first car, couldn’t they have kept their old reliable cars? A Honda or Toyota can last at least 10-15 years, and they’re relatively low maintenance." }, { "id": "t1_ol2k4zz", "author": "/u/Similar_Pension_4233", "updated": "2026-05-10T21:42:59+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol2k4zz/", "content": "An example, someone who is in their mid 30s decides to get a degree as a social worker in a school that requires they drive to/from their home in order to keep their job, but they've never owned a car. As you can imagine, they have no experience changing the oil or changing tires.\n As a result, they decide to lease a car (Kia EV, the Niro, because it was on a good lease deal at the time). Their plan is to return the car after 2 years.\n Realistically, they'll never be rich and, if they do buy a new car, they'll probably be in their 40s when they do it. Unless they decide to buy out their Niro, but they can't afford to buy/keep it." }, { "id": "t1_ol29uxk", "author": "/u/GentlemanlyMeadow", "updated": "2026-05-10T20:49:42+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol29uxk/", "content": "You either actually have it (like OP) or you have to play the part. It's not a great way to think or to live" }, { "id": "t1_ol3sdr4", "author": "/u/roomiethrowaway12", "updated": "2026-05-11T02:05:23+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol3sdr4/", "content": "I don't know about the car but anyone who's ever been poor can tell you how much it matters not to look poor." }, { "id": "t1_ol3ymh3", "author": "/u/Jojosbees", "updated": "2026-05-11T02:43:52+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol3ymh3/", "content": "I get that in terms of personal hygiene and clothing, but is there really a difference between having a new car vs a 10+ year old car?" }, { "id": "t1_ol5avs1", "author": "/u/whocaresreallythrow", "updated": "2026-05-11T09:17:30+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol5avs1/", "content": "Why do poor people want to not look poor ? Why they live a lie. ?" }, { "id": "t1_olakgvv", "author": "/u/Diligent-Committee21", "updated": "2026-05-12T01:55:29+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/olakgvv/", "content": "Many people are status conscious, and that includes being dismissive or even cruel to poor people." }, { "id": "t1_ol1nc9l", "author": "/u/These_Emu_1878", "updated": "2026-05-10T18:59:29+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol1nc9l/", "content": "Keep up the mask they are wearing but you ain't fooling me with that $1200 car note." }, { "id": "t1_olc9hll", "author": "/u/Adventurous_Dog_7755", "updated": "2026-05-12T09:38:49+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/olc9hll/", "content": "To impress people they don't like. It's the America way, the more debt you have, the cooler you look." }, { "id": "t1_ol5tpcc", "author": "/u/Iam-WinstonSmith", "updated": "2026-05-11T11:41:48+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol5tpcc/", "content": "You don't and they know that, it's a weak defense." }, { "id": "t1_olxumge", "author": "/u/greaper007", "updated": "2026-05-15T12:41:41+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/olxumge/", "content": "I can only imagine if they're in sales or some other related field and have to project an image of succes." }, { "id": "t1_ol1cxbj", "author": "/u/Manlet", "updated": "2026-05-10T18:09:26+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol1cxbj/", "content": "This makes no sense" }, { "id": "t1_ol1e891", "author": "/u/Revolutionary-Fan235", "updated": "2026-05-10T18:15:31+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol1e891/", "content": "Yeah. It gives off, "How do you do, fellow humans?" vibes." }, { "id": "t1_ol1dw9w", "author": "/u/bonafide_bonsai", "updated": "2026-05-10T18:13:58+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol1dw9w/", "content": "Yeah. Of all the things that didn’t happen, this didn’t happen the most." }, { "id": "t1_ol1tg5n", "author": "/u/charcoalhibiscus", "updated": "2026-05-10T19:28:54+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol1tg5n/", "content": "Idk. I have heard so many extremely weird rationales from people about how they’re mysteriously forced to buy a brand-new SUV." }, { "id": "t1_ol82buo", "author": "/u/Judson_Scott", "updated": "2026-05-11T18:11:02+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol82buo/", "content": "Seriously. Who hangs out with assholes like this on purpose?\n I'm retired in my early 50s. Nobody cares." }, { "id": "t1_ol1fvuj", "author": "/u/boringexplanation", "updated": "2026-05-10T18:23:23+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol1fvuj/", "content": "A lot of people IRL don’t" }, { "id": "t1_ol2y40l", "author": "/u/griphon31", "updated": "2026-05-10T23:04:03+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol2y40l/", "content": "There's an article from the truth about cars about 15 years ago, the theme is "you need to be rich (privileged) to drive a cheap car".\n 1) can afford to, or generally be flexible about not making it to work. An unreliable ycar can get many people fired\n 2) have the flexibility to make a randomly timed large repair payment instead of a scheduled expense\n 3) you have friends who can, at the drop of the hat save you from the side of the road or help you get to work or fix a broken thing\n The take away was that the people who can't afford a nice car are the ones who most need one...dned if you do damned if you don't" }, { "id": "t1_ol30bqf", "author": "/u/InclinationCompass", "updated": "2026-05-10T23:17:14+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol30bqf/", "content": "I was able to do these before I was anywhere near "rich" (still not rich currently), but that had more to do with the fact that I was very careful with money and always kept an emergency fund (must be my Asian genes)" }, { "id": "t1_ol31dhl", "author": "/u/griphon31", "updated": "2026-05-10T23:23:26+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol31dhl/", "content": "And that's the caveat to privileged. Enough spare money for a reserve fund. A reliable job. Not feeling like on the brink of everything being over before the car breaks down" }, { "id": "t1_ol32c2r", "author": "/u/InclinationCompass", "updated": "2026-05-10T23:29:10+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol32c2r/", "content": "Yes, you don't need to be "rich" for that. "Privileged" is a better word, though you also need to be prioritize financial management while sacrificing luxuries like new car, vacations, alcohol, etc." }, { "id": "t1_ol1ev29", "author": "/u/Visible_Structure483", "updated": "2026-05-10T18:18:30+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol1ev29/", "content": "it's ironic, not sensical. (if that's even a word)" }, { "id": "t1_ol1js8z", "author": "/u/WillieDoggg", "updated": "2026-05-10T18:42:20+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol1js8z/", "content": "I don’t understand the downvotes and people thinking it’s a fake story.\n Of course, in this sub, we all agree those kind of people are weak/shortsighted/dumb, but to not understand that MOST normal people’s M.O. is to keep up with Joneses is wild.\n We are the weird ones people! A good weird, but still." }, { "id": "t1_ol1scnz", "author": "/u/Visible_Structure483", "updated": "2026-05-10T19:23:43+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol1scnz/", "content": "this is reddit, people downvote anything that doesn't 100% jive with their world view. it's just how it is, you can't take it personal.\n royal 'you', not you exactly of course." }, { "id": "t1_ol7c4ne", "author": "/u/cfi-2025", "updated": "2026-05-11T16:14:44+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol7c4ne/", "content": "But these magic Internet points are how I derive my self-worth!!" }, { "id": "t1_ol82vw9", "author": "/u/Judson_Scott", "updated": "2026-05-11T18:13:33+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol82vw9/", "content": "I don’t understand the downvotes and people thinking it’s a fake story.\n Why would OP choose to hang out with assholes? Just to tell reddit about it? It doesn't make sense. Nobody cares how much money other people have, even though many in this sub think everyone is jealous of them. Too many here have 'main character syndrome,' which is exactly what OP sounds like. Or it could just be karma-whoring.\n In reality, none of us matter that much." }, { "id": "t1_ola2bt4", "author": "/u/WillieDoggg", "updated": "2026-05-12T00:10:20+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ola2bt4/", "content": "Thinking people don’t care about how much money other people have is certainly an opinion. 😆\n In this case what the person cares about was how much money they themselves have compared to other people. Which, of course, requires someone to care about both how much they have and other people have.\n He already explained they were more acquiescences than friends. If I tried to avoid every person who is concerned with keeping up with the Joneses, I could barely leave my house.\n I certainly couldn’t have contact with my neighbors. I could barely work because coworkers probably care the most. I couldn’t date or have romantic relationships. I couldn’t go to school, to the gym, take trips, or really engage in group activities. What a terrible hermit existence.\n But then, I don’t think people are assholes when then care about keeping up with the Joneses. It’s human nature to care. It’s normal. Most people do. It’s hardwired to compare yourself to others and try to climb the social hierarchy. It’s a basic human motivation. You really don’t know that?\n When I come in contact with people like that I chuckle. You think it would affect me personally? That’s funny. I smirk the same way I smirked while reading your response. It’s entertaining." }, { "id": "t1_ol3bokw", "author": "/u/Ok_Tart143", "updated": "2026-05-11T00:25:18+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol3bokw/", "content": "I've had friends say that we are "rich" because we can save money and have an emergency fund. And I'm thinking about how I started with nothing too and you just make the decision to change your lifestyle. We didn't get handed money, we decided to live well below our means which is something no one I know seems to want to do. And then we saved til it snowballed." }, { "id": "t1_ol2weq4", "author": "/u/Gustomucho", "updated": "2026-05-10T22:53:55+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol2weq4/", "content": "I mean, only people who know you’re rich « know you are rich », anyone else know you are in a crappy car. It doesn’t matter, same as your friend’s take.\n People sometimes drive fancy cars for social climbing. It projects a certain degree of success, so people tend to see someone in a nice car as a « winner ».\n When you have f you money you don’t need to project success, you already achieved it." }, { "id": "t1_ol488j3", "author": "/u/Bruceshadow", "updated": "2026-05-11T03:50:36+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol488j3/", "content": "nonsensical" }, { "id": "t1_ol27m7h", "author": "/u/entered_bubble_50", "updated": "2026-05-10T20:38:30+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol27m7h/", "content": "No it doesn't, but it's sort of how it works.\n I know quite a few rich people. None of them have new cars. They have nothing to prove, and no need to have a symbol if their status. So they just don't bother.\n It's the middle class who seem to care the most about status, and are the ones buying status symbols." }, { "id": "t1_ol2zx4p", "author": "/u/InclinationCompass", "updated": "2026-05-10T23:14:52+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol2zx4p/", "content": "Idk how it got so many upvotes" }, { "id": "t1_ol3b54u", "author": "/u/cds4850", "updated": "2026-05-11T00:22:17+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol3b54u/", "content": "Agreed. These people seem terrible. Avoid." }, { "id": "t1_ol1d955", "author": "/u/NotAShittyMod", "updated": "2026-05-10T18:10:58+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol1d955/", "content": "They're not really 'friends', just people I do one activity with\n You're rich, no one cares what kind of car you have\n How do these ‘not friend’ associates know how much money you have?" }, { "id": "t1_ol1ekld", "author": "/u/Visible_Structure483", "updated": "2026-05-10T18:17:07+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol1ekld/", "content": "They know I'm RE so they just assume I'm rich is my guess. It's not like I ever talk about money." }, { "id": "t1_ol1gxzn", "author": "/u/sleezly", "updated": "2026-05-10T18:28:29+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol1gxzn/", "content": "Reminds me of office space…\n “Well, you don't need a million dollars to do nothing, man. Just take a look at my cousin, he's broke, don't do shit!"\n You don’t have to be rich to be RE; lots of assumptions here." }, { "id": "t1_ol1thkx", "author": "/u/Visible_Structure483", "updated": "2026-05-10T19:29:06+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol1thkx/", "content": "you know what I would do with a million dollars....?" }, { "id": "t1_ol1wc1v", "author": "/u/fannyalgerpack", "updated": "2026-05-10T19:42:59+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol1wc1v/", "content": "Two chicks at the same time, man" }, { "id": "t1_ol3h32z", "author": "/u/data_ferret", "updated": "2026-05-11T00:56:51+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol3h32z/", "content": "Would you buy me a house?" }, { "id": "t1_ol1e7j1", "author": "/u/mhoepfin", "updated": "2026-05-10T18:15:25+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol1e7j1/", "content": "Goes back to that basketball player that wears completely fake replica watches. He was interviewed and asked about it and said “Hey I’m so and so, I’ve got nobody to impress so I save my money instead.”" }, { "id": "t1_ol23hk0", "author": "/u/stlc8tr", "updated": "2026-05-10T20:18:06+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol23hk0/", "content": "If he has no one to impress, why wear a replica? Why not just a regular watch?" }, { "id": "t1_ol252zf", "author": "/u/Drawer-Vegetable", "updated": "2026-05-10T20:26:00+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol252zf/", "content": "Could just like the look of the watch, but not want to pay the inflated prices." }, { "id": "t1_ol2ucw9", "author": "/u/PbNewf", "updated": "2026-05-10T22:41:40+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol2ucw9/", "content": "Plenty of homages to popular watches to choose from. Fakes are weird" }, { "id": "t1_oltxlzv", "author": "/u/Overall-Charity-2110", "updated": "2026-05-14T20:45:18+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/oltxlzv/", "content": "i wear fakes to flex that i don’t have to keep up w the jones 👀" }, { "id": "t1_ol3397w", "author": "/u/sinovesting", "updated": "2026-05-10T23:34:40+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol3397w/", "content": "Probably just likes the look/design of the watch. Some replica watches are actually very high quality." }, { "id": "t1_ol6jrl4", "author": "/u/Spirited_Currency867", "updated": "2026-05-11T14:05:03+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol6jrl4/", "content": "Some replica Porsche speedsters are actually better than real ones, which are very rare and insanely expensive." }, { "id": "t1_ol2kjbo", "author": "/u/entrepenurious", "updated": "2026-05-10T21:45:09+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol2kjbo/", "content": "a rich friend wore a $20.00 gold-colored watch and a one-ounce gold nugget ring.\n he called it his 'fashion statement': "of course i can afford a 'better' watch; i like this one."" }, { "id": "t1_om2grf9", "author": "/u/BackToTheCottage", "updated": "2026-05-16T03:12:10+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/om2grf9/", "content": "I dunno bout the watches but sometimes the reps from China are built better than the real thing!\n I heard a joke that if a Hermes handbag survives a year of regular use (not a closet queen), it's a rep." }, { "id": "t1_ol1k8ir", "author": "/u/fakesaucisse", "updated": "2026-05-10T18:44:31+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol1k8ir/", "content": "In a sense you are lucky that she didn't go the route of "you're entitled for hoarding an affordable car that a lower income family would be more deserving to have." I used to be acquaintances with a woman who said that about my home, that I was taking away resources from struggling people for having a modest home. Some people can never be pleased." }, { "id": "t1_ol64jnh", "author": "/u/stentordoctor", "updated": "2026-05-11T12:46:36+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol64jnh/", "content": "Let me say that again, "some people can never be pleased"\n the actual fact of the matter is that our money is invested, which means it's in the system! It's not under our pillows! ffs" }, { "id": "t1_ol1dbxv", "author": "/u/flyingponytail", "updated": "2026-05-10T18:11:20+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol1dbxv/", "content": "Its almost like what car you drive isnt a good indicator of wealth" }, { "id": "t1_ol74dtv", "author": "/u/thesonofdarwin", "updated": "2026-05-11T15:40:04+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol74dtv/", "content": "I assume most people that are cosplaying rich are actually quite poor in reality. Since very few people in society are actually rich (and they are hanging out with other, actually rich people and not you), the every day people playing make believe are doing so at a great deficit to their financial reality." }, { "id": "t1_ol76j1l", "author": "/u/flyingponytail", "updated": "2026-05-11T15:49:32+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol76j1l/", "content": "Youve... learned nothing from this thread" }, { "id": "t1_ol1el0u", "author": "/u/_ii_", "updated": "2026-05-10T18:17:11+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol1el0u/", "content": "I watched a documentary about why South Korean spend so much on luxury goods while their incomes are relatively low in developed economies: average workers can’t hope afford owning a home or retirement with dignity so they spend their money on luxury goods. It’s a coping mechanism, kind of sad." }, { "id": "t1_ol1uuna", "author": "/u/ImOnlyCakeOnceAYear", "updated": "2026-05-10T19:35:44+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol1uuna/", "content": "I'm pretty sure America is well on its way too" }, { "id": "t1_ol2zkuk", "author": "/u/asunabay", "updated": "2026-05-10T23:12:49+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol2zkuk/", "content": "Was just thinking, Americans are kind of that way. I see lots of designer accessories, plus nice cars and boats in driveways." }, { "id": "t1_ololksr", "author": "/u/curioushobbyist_", "updated": "2026-05-14T01:52:33+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ololksr/", "content": "Is this based on anything? I think the younger generations (starting with millennials) have been spending more money on experiences over material goods based on articles I've read. I could also be part of some echo chamber as I am one of those millennials lol" }, { "id": "t1_ol1h7p3", "author": "/u/pacman2081", "updated": "2026-05-10T18:29:48+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol1h7p3/", "content": "the same reason folks spurgled on latest model iPhones" }, { "id": "t1_ol1lwb7", "author": "/u/Express_Froyo7096", "updated": "2026-05-10T18:52:33+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol1lwb7/", "content": "Everyone should buy the new iPhone for several reasons not keeping up with Jones. Not the same as designer stuff." }, { "id": "t1_ol33km4", "author": "/u/Piklia", "updated": "2026-05-10T23:36:33+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol33km4/", "content": "I personally hold onto my phone until it’s on its last leg, then buy last year’s model." }, { "id": "t1_ol1n477", "author": "/u/pacman2081", "updated": "2026-05-10T18:58:25+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol1n477/", "content": "There are valid reasons for buying latest iPhone model. It does not apply to all of us" }, { "id": "t1_ol4qgwe", "author": "/u/mymoon11", "updated": "2026-05-11T06:15:32+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol4qgwe/", "content": "Video link?" }, { "id": "t1_ol1eezb", "author": "/u/Excel-Block-Tango", "updated": "2026-05-10T18:16:24+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol1eezb/", "content": "The people I aim to impress don’t care about my car. They do care about my character, my commitment, my honesty, my worth ethic, my gratitude." }, { "id": "t1_ol1cv3t", "author": "/u/Neo-Armadillo", "updated": "2026-05-10T18:09:09+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol1cv3t/", "content": "Funny how they got it exactly backwards." }, { "id": "t1_ol1x9jx", "author": "/u/HTL111", "updated": "2026-05-10T19:47:33+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol1x9jx/", "content": "As someone who loosely peruses the FIRE feeds, this seems like such a fake scenario that is made up to fuel the ego of the people on this sub. Not that people don’t keep up with the joneses- but it is incredibly hard to believe someone would say that. But a great post for people here to circle jerk about how they’re so much smarter than other people" }, { "id": "t1_ol1e5tm", "author": "/u/asyouwish", "updated": "2026-05-10T18:15:12+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol1e5tm/", "content": ""Maybe I'm rich because I don't buy new cars just to 'keep up' as if life is some kind of competition."" }, { "id": "t1_ol1mkmm", "author": "/u/Throwaway354591", "updated": "2026-05-10T18:55:48+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol1mkmm/", "content": "I never understood why wealthy people pride themselves on driving older cars (common take on Reddit).\n A car accident is one of the most common ways to die. There have been a lot of safety upgrades since your 2004 Honda civic was made." }, { "id": "t1_ol1s0m4", "author": "/u/Visible_Structure483", "updated": "2026-05-10T19:22:11+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol1s0m4/", "content": "this is one of the main reasons I'm going to upgrade this year. safety improvements are real. sadly they come along with a bunch of shitty unreliable tech which makes giving up a vehicle from the "it just works" era difficult." }, { "id": "t1_ol2y47n", "author": "/u/etempleton", "updated": "2026-05-10T23:04:05+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol2y47n/", "content": "Safety upgrades are real, but there are certain safety milestone. Cars built around 2010 and later meet roughly the same minimum spec on safety. There have been a few additional requirements to safety standards since then mostly focused on driver assists, but nothing crazy. That is any car in the last 15 years is about as safe as anything new. It is something to consider if you are talking about out a 20+ year old car, but swapping cars ever 4-5 years is not going to be appreciably safer." }, { "id": "t1_olb4nl8", "author": "/u/goosemaster0", "updated": "2026-05-12T04:02:39+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/olb4nl8/", "content": "That is any car in the last 15 years is about as safe as anything new.\n This is extremely misinformed. I don't know if you're coping to make yourself feel better or you legit think this is true. Safety did go through a huge jump from the late 90s to the mid-00s (largely the result of massive improvements in CAD), but safety improvements did not stop in the Obama administration." }, { "id": "t1_olb8pxz", "author": "/u/etempleton", "updated": "2026-05-12T04:31:46+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/olb8pxz/", "content": "You answered it right there. There was a big jump in the mid oughts and then, yes, cars get moderately safer every year. But the gains are marginal. The safest car from 2010 is safer than the least safe from 2026at least in terms of fatal collision protection. Most of the advancements in the past 10 years have been accident mitigation which I think has less impact on the potentially fatal accidents.\n No one is arguing cars aren’t safer today. I just don’t know anyone needs to panic and go out and buy a new car for safety if they have a car built in the last 15 years." }, { "id": "t1_oldel7q", "author": "/u/goosemaster0", "updated": "2026-05-12T13:51:39+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/oldel7q/", "content": "The safest car from 2010 is safer than the least safe from 2026 at least in terms of fatal collision protection\n This is a stupid argument. Nobody is cross shopping a 2010 XC90 with a 2026 Mitsubishi Mirage. People are generally cross shopping within the class of vehicle they're interested in.\n The 2010 Sienna was launched in 2004. Which means the bulk of crash engineering was likely done in the very early 00s.\n There is going to be a GARGANTUAN difference in safety between that and the latest generation which launched in 2020s.\n Most of the advancements in the past 10 years have been accident mitigation which I think has less impact on the potentially fatal accidents.\n THIS IS WRONG. The small frontal overlap crash test was introduced in 2012 and literally every single car failed it or got marginal ratings. It took ~10 years before automakers reliably got "Good" ratings for this test for driver & passenger.\n Side impact tests are also now done with faster, heavier machines. A good score in 2010 would likely be marginal or failing by 2026 standards.\n Saying "accident mitigation" systems don't reduce fatal accidents is asinine.\n The study also shows that autobrake reduces injuries. The rate of rear-end crashes with injuries decreases by 42 percent with forward collision warning with autobrake and 47 percent with City Safety. Forward collision warning alone is associated with a 6 percent decrease in rear-end injury crashes, though that finding isn't statistically significant. Source\n Cicchino examined police-reported crashes from 25 states for 2017-20 and calculated the rate at which pickups rear-ended other vehicles per registered vehicle year. She found that the rate was 43 percent lower for pickups equipped with AEB than for those without it. Rear-end injury crash rates were 42 percent lower. Source\n Do you want me to go into detail about how most fatal accidents occur at night and how much headlight technology has improved in the last 10-15 years? I can keep going.\n Look, if you want to save some money by buying a car made in 2010, go for it. I often own/drive older cars because they're more fun. But don't delude yourself into thinking you're anywhere near as well off in an accident vs. someone in a vehicle made this decade." }, { "id": "t1_oldmdse", "author": "/u/etempleton", "updated": "2026-05-12T14:28:03+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/oldmdse/", "content": "Traffic deaths have dramatically dropped off in the last 5 years then? Because if the difference was gargantuan instead of marginal there would be a giant statistical reduction in traffic deaths, correct? Well, data doesn’t show that. It shows a very small reduction in traffic deaths for cars built in the last 5 years compared to the previous 5-10 years." }, { "id": "t1_olggs78", "author": "/u/goosemaster0", "updated": "2026-05-12T22:11:42+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/olggs78/", "content": "- Average age of a car on U.S. roads is 13 years old. The fatality rates of accidents right now reflect that of a car made in ~2012. You're essentially saying there wasn't a big difference between cars made in mid-00s to early 2010s, which if you look at the devlopment cycle of automakers, makes sense. The 1st generation Honda Fit was sold till 07 but was engineered in the late 90s. The 06 Camry launched in 01 and again was likely engineered in the late 90s. I could go on, and on.\n- COVID made everything go weird. Homicide rates went skyrocketing, violent crime went up. There's a lot of reasons for this that go beyond a Reddit comment section. There's also the cell phone and the explosion of short form content that has absolutely fried the braincells of the general populous. You are arguing with concrete data. Unless this is some deeply held religious belief where you think your 2010 Corolla is "basically" as safe as a 2026 Corolla, I would consider reevaluating your beliefs.\n Researchers found that driving vehicles 6-15 years old had a 19% greater risk of driver death in fatal crashes, and driving vehicles older than 15 years had a 31% greater risk, both compared to driving vehicles 5 years old or newer, regardless of driver age. Additionally, each driver assistance technology already present in vehicles was associated with a 6% reduction in the risk of driver death in fatal crashes.\n Source" }, { "id": "t1_olhepk9", "author": "/u/etempleton", "updated": "2026-05-13T01:18:03+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/olhepk9/", "content": "I am not arguing with this fact, but while 19 percent reduction sounds huge it is from ~40 deaths per million registered vehicles to ~30 deaths per million registered vehicles. It is an improvement but marginal. Unlike a car from say 95 which is about ~100 deaths per million miles driven.\n I think we are saying the same thing. It is a tolerance for risk. Someone, with hypothetically zero risk tolerance would buy a new car every year, but that is of course economically infeasible or impractical. You hope you are never in a fatal/near fatal accident.\n Again, my opinion on the data is that people should not be too worried about driving a car from 2010. While the improvements in safety are statistically significant you are not dramatically increasing the changes you will be killed in a car accident by during a 10-15 year old vehicle. But I would reconsider daily driving a car from 1995 or earlier." }, { "id": "t1_ol40y20", "author": "/u/tiberiumx", "updated": "2026-05-11T02:59:18+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol40y20/", "content": "The safety improvement landscape is a lot more mixed than that. Upgraded to a used 2020 Civic a few years ago. The automated emergency braking has saved my ass already. Everything was moving, I go to check my mirror one last time before merging into a weave lane, and suddenly everybody is slamming on their brakes while I'm looking at a mirror. I would have definitely rear-ended the person in front of me without it. Only automated braking isn't a required feature until 2029." }, { "id": "t1_ol6hy8x", "author": "/u/PretendStress", "updated": "2026-05-11T13:56:16+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol6hy8x/", "content": "This! Automatic braking has been one of the best safety features in newer cars. Comparing a 2014 car to a 2020+ car is like night and day—better driving lights, adaptive cruise control, automatic braking, lane detection, etc." }, { "id": "t1_ol3e1px", "author": "/u/diablo4megafan", "updated": "2026-05-11T00:39:04+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol3e1px/", "content": "Cars built around 2010 and later meet roughly the same minimum spec on safety.\n maybe for "minimum" safety specs, but if you care about anything beyond the bare minimum, this isn't even remotely true, the tests are constantly updated. for example the toyota rav 4 was the top safety pick of 2020, but it only gets a "marginal" (the second lowest possible) rating for the updated moderate overlap test which was updated in 2022; a 2026 rav 4 gets the top rating because they engineered it to surpass these new standards. meaning, a 2026 rav 4 is meaningfully safer for the passengers in your back seat (probably your kids) in a head on collision than the 2020 rav 4 would've been." }, { "id": "t1_ol2p0xs", "author": "/u/jrdhytr", "updated": "2026-05-10T22:10:05+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol2p0xs/", "content": "You are 4-5 times more likely to run out of money in retirement than you are to die in an auto accident, so maybe it makes more sense to drive the old car and invest the money." }, { "id": "t1_olb5hpg", "author": "/u/goosemaster0", "updated": "2026-05-12T04:08:37+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/olb5hpg/", "content": "If OP has a 7-figure/high 6-figure nest egg and is chilling, it's beyond stupid risk to accept. Especially when you have kids.\n The weekly fluctuation in the markets is a new Sienna at that rate." }, { "id": "t1_ol3057r", "author": "/u/IGnuGnat", "updated": "2026-05-10T23:16:10+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol3057r/", "content": "I made a stupid turn in a very awkward situation in my 2009 Ford E150 and tagged an actual telephone pole which put a big dent in the door.\n So I went to the junk yard, paid $250 for a perfectly immaculate used door and replaced it myself.\n My FIL damaged the blinker stalk on his Lexus. I think he was quoted $1500 LOL\n A lot of newer cars it's extremely difficult to do your own work on the vehicle due to all of the "upgrades", half of which I don't want and think that they actually make the vehicle worth less, at least to me" }, { "id": "t1_olb534w", "author": "/u/goosemaster0", "updated": "2026-05-12T04:05:43+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/olb534w/", "content": "Wish I could upvote this 1000 times. Car accidents kill 100 Americans every day. Bragging about your shitty "paid off" 2010 Sienna while having a 7-figure portfolio is so beyond stupid it hurts my brain.\n Cars have gotten so much safer in the last 15 years. If you've made it, invest in shit that will save you when the driver of the F-250 behind you is buried in Instagram Reels." }, { "id": "t1_ol1hxve", "author": "/u/Lazarus-Online", "updated": "2026-05-10T18:33:19+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol1hxve/", "content": "Is this once a week activity with non-friends a swingers club?" }, { "id": "t1_ol1sj43", "author": "/u/Visible_Structure483", "updated": "2026-05-10T19:24:34+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol1sj43/", "content": "how did you know???\n are you the one with the new RAV4?" }, { "id": "t1_ol3ttgt", "author": "/u/French__Canadian", "updated": "2026-05-11T02:13:59+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol3ttgt/", "content": "Why else would you spend your free time with a group of people every single week that you don't like enough to call friends." }, { "id": "t1_ol4tbgh", "author": "/u/Jack_Bogul", "updated": "2026-05-11T06:40:14+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol4tbgh/", "content": "pickleball" }, { "id": "t1_ol502o3", "author": "/u/Eastfalia", "updated": "2026-05-11T07:40:11+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol502o3/", "content": "Do you not have social hobbies? What kind of stupid ass question is this" }, { "id": "t1_ol1dd0n", "author": "/u/lsp2005", "updated": "2026-05-10T18:11:28+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol1dd0n/", "content": "You live rent free in their head. Congratulations" }, { "id": "t1_ol1eq1n", "author": "/u/InvestigatorAlert568", "updated": "2026-05-10T18:17:51+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol1eq1n/", "content": "fake nonsense thats giving smug over non fire normies. can’t be content." }, { "id": "t1_ol1yqjh", "author": "/u/wemust_eattherich", "updated": "2026-05-10T19:54:45+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol1yqjh/", "content": "Funny, my 96 Toyota is less likely to break down than a modern car." }, { "id": "t1_ol1ikez", "author": "/u/SeparateCode2285", "updated": "2026-05-10T18:36:25+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol1ikez/", "content": "You are rich because you didn’t care about keeping up. People who are too focused on keeping up, seldom get rich because they are mostly buying depreciating stuff." }, { "id": "t1_ol1dloh", "author": "/u/Catullus13", "updated": "2026-05-10T18:12:35+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol1dloh/", "content": "It's true. For the vast majority of families with kids, the minivan is the overwhelmingly good choice to make. They're cheaper. Reliable. And the sliding doors dont damage other cars and it's far easier to unload kids. And guess what? People refuse to buy them for the stigma." }, { "id": "t1_ol1f7ps", "author": "/u/maksezzy", "updated": "2026-05-10T18:20:11+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol1f7ps/", "content": "More reason why a used one is the perfect deal.." }, { "id": "t1_ol233bc", "author": "/u/Objective_Swim_1455", "updated": "2026-05-10T20:16:10+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol233bc/", "content": "Minivans are astronomically more expensive than hatchbacks and small sedans, especially when you include cost of gas and repairs\n Just buy a corolla or civic if you want cheap transportation" }, { "id": "t1_ol2mgbp", "author": "/u/Visible_Structure483", "updated": "2026-05-10T21:55:26+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol2mgbp/", "content": "I dunno about cheaper, the newer stuff runs into the $50k region.\n Cheaper than a $100k suburban? OK sure, but that's a whole other level of WTF." }, { "id": "t1_ol1k30j", "author": "/u/Comprehensive-Log144", "updated": "2026-05-10T18:43:46+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol1k30j/", "content": "Wealth is money you don’t spend." }, { "id": "t1_ol1df3d", "author": "/u/Sarahstarry", "updated": "2026-05-10T18:11:44+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol1df3d/", "content": "Who makes them "keep up" with anything?" }, { "id": "t1_ol1lifq", "author": "/u/CrazyTownVA", "updated": "2026-05-10T18:50:42+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol1lifq/", "content": "Chiming in to say that our total net worth is over $4M, and we drive a minivan that is older than yours!" }, { "id": "t1_ol2ku23", "author": "/u/Wide-Meringue-2717", "updated": "2026-05-10T21:46:44+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol2ku23/", "content": "We in Europe don’t think like that… fire or not. We have cars to get from A to B or use public transport or a bike. Some have tiny old rust buckets and some drive flag ship BMW. Who cares?" }, { "id": "t1_ol1dix9", "author": "/u/IamGeoMan", "updated": "2026-05-10T18:12:14+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol1dix9/", "content": "What kind of bizaro logic is that? Driving a nice car or not has little to do with being "rich" or not. I've seen plenty of BMWs and Mercedes pull up to public housing parking lots.\n Being around people like that gives me the ick and I wonder what other warped ideas they're harboring that hasn't surfaced." }, { "id": "t1_ol1enmm", "author": "/u/wvtarheel", "updated": "2026-05-10T18:17:31+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol1enmm/", "content": "Everything is someone else's fault to certain people. I said to a friend at work I can't afford a $6 Starbucks every day and she said that's because you are rich enough to make your own coffee. I use a ten dollar French press to avoid paying six dollars a cup, rich privilege!" }, { "id": "t1_ol1fo94", "author": "/u/RedQueenWhiteQueen", "updated": "2026-05-10T18:22:22+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol1fo94/", "content": "Driving a nice car or not has little to do with being "rich" or not. I've seen plenty of BMWs and Mercedes pull up to public housing parking lots.\n I've been around long enough that I shouldn't be as surprised by this as I am, but it's eye-opening to me that the youtube channel I've been binging features soooo many people making $18 - $20/hour at Chipotle or wherever financing BMW, Mercedes, Jeeps, and Range Rovers, at extortionate interest rates to boot. When I was young and doing my time in retail I knew I couldn't afford a car at all and I used mediocre public transportation to get to my three jobs in three counties." }, { "id": "t1_ol1lwi5", "author": "/u/danfirst", "updated": "2026-05-10T18:52:35+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol1lwi5/", "content": "The number of people who show up at the food bank I volunteer at in nicer cars than me is not small. And I'm not talking someone who lost a job and needs help, I mean they come 1-2x a week, for years.\n I'd see the same thing years ago, the helpdesk, which made barely 20/hour, all had new expensive cars." }, { "id": "t1_ol1nywe", "author": "/u/ImprovementSweaty188", "updated": "2026-05-10T19:02:32+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol1nywe/", "content": "I drive a 16-year-old pickup. I love that thing. My boss is very well off and drives a 23–year-old truck. I’ve never understood wanting or caring about new vehicles." }, { "id": "t1_ol1on93", "author": "/u/wandelust19", "updated": "2026-05-10T19:05:52+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol1on93/", "content": "That’s a fundamental disconnect in mindset. You care about functionality and she cares about perception.\n Her mindset is “people know you’re rich so you can tell the peasants to think whatever they want. I need to drive a new car so they think I’m rich because it’s the only indicator I can use.”\n Your mindset is “I’m rich by maximizing the life of an asset (not investment because minivans only depreciate) and making my money grow elsewhere for me.”\n Maybe let her know this is the difference. You’ve NEVER cared what people think (I assume). If she doesn’t get it maybe we can watch her cry in a Zac Rios TikTok compilation about bad financial decisions in a year or so." }, { "id": "t1_olk7une", "author": "/u/Good-Ad6688", "updated": "2026-05-13T13:10:12+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/olk7une/", "content": "You can’t reason with these people though. This will just make her friend more angry" }, { "id": "t1_ol1dcf5", "author": "/u/killer_sheltie", "updated": "2026-05-10T18:11:24+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol1dcf5/", "content": "They'd love my '96 Miata then; a truly rich person car." }, { "id": "t1_ol1hh6s", "author": "/u/pacman2081", "updated": "2026-05-10T18:31:05+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol1hh6s/", "content": "a cool car, I may add" }, { "id": "t1_ol1ibw3", "author": "/u/troublesomefaux", "updated": "2026-05-10T18:35:15+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol1ibw3/", "content": "I can’t imagine someone in a once an week activity group knowing my financial situation well enough to comment on it in a group of people. 😬\n My spouse and I share one ten year old car though. We were able to afford a house in ‘old town’ where we can walk to lots of things, we don’t need to go anywhere to work, and we can adjust our schedules so we never make plans at the same time (or we take an uber or rent a car…sometimes I take a bus because I love to pretend I live somewhere with usable public transit). The car only has 65k miles on it and we bought it used." }, { "id": "t1_ol1jhpw", "author": "/u/used2befast", "updated": "2026-05-10T18:40:54+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol1jhpw/", "content": "Everyone is different. I have a 911 Turbo S and M5 parked in the garage. I drive 90% of the time a 11yo Toyota Minivan and I also drive a 21 year old F250" }, { "id": "t1_ol2ocva", "author": "/u/Standard-Juice-3738", "updated": "2026-05-10T22:06:10+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol2ocva/", "content": "Sounds like you should trade the Turbo S for a GT3" }, { "id": "t1_ol2pz5p", "author": "/u/used2befast", "updated": "2026-05-10T22:15:38+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol2pz5p/", "content": "Actually waiting on a RS" }, { "id": "t1_ol2qwrl", "author": "/u/Standard-Juice-3738", "updated": "2026-05-10T22:21:04+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol2qwrl/", "content": "Nice. Makes more sense with the M5 and minivan" }, { "id": "t1_ol1l1a2", "author": "/u/lateralex", "updated": "2026-05-10T18:48:23+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol1l1a2/", "content": "You were talking to an asshole, nothing more than that" }, { "id": "t1_olaplq8", "author": "/u/IcySkyDream", "updated": "2026-05-12T02:25:32+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/olaplq8/", "content": "More like a loser cake, with some asshole frosting." }, { "id": "t1_ol1p70i", "author": "/u/brianmcg321", "updated": "2026-05-10T19:08:34+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol1p70i/", "content": "That’s just how most people think. They are really insecure and care way too much about how people they don’t like think of them." }, { "id": "t1_ol20vj9", "author": "/u/UnderstandingOk9448", "updated": "2026-05-10T20:05:15+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol20vj9/", "content": "The person who said that "you're rich.. " sounds like a jealous asshole. That family doesnt need to keep up. Its an excuse why they arent doing as well as you.\n That is a good reason why if you are under 60, let people think you have a remote job, your own boring business, etc. with flexible hours.\n People who know me know that I was laid off recently.But I deciced to retire. I am at the moment unemployed. In the next 6-12 months, I will "find" (wink wink) a remote but low paying job." }, { "id": "t1_ol2mumx", "author": "/u/Visible_Structure483", "updated": "2026-05-10T21:57:38+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol2mumx/", "content": "na, I gave up on hiding it soon after. other than the occasional snarky comment it's not been an issue. I can share all sorts of stuff about hobbies and projects to be interesting to talk to without a faux job. anyone who only wants to know what I do for a living is probably not worth talking to at this point in life." }, { "id": "t1_ol8m0o4", "author": "/u/Fire_Doc2017", "updated": "2026-05-11T19:41:50+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol8m0o4/", "content": "Why spend money you don't have to buy things you don't need to impress people you don't like?" }, { "id": "t1_ol1expe", "author": "/u/Specific_Prize", "updated": "2026-05-10T18:18:51+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol1expe/", "content": "People will find ways to misdirect their own envy. Live your own life." }, { "id": "t1_ol1fjhp", "author": "/u/whatyoucallmetoday", "updated": "2026-05-10T18:21:44+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol1fjhp/", "content": "My car gets classic car plates next year. I drive it for two reasons 1) Its cheap and paid for 2) free valet parking when we go to musicals downtown. The valets recognize and chat with us when we pull up. I see some long noses from some patrons as we get waved past the payment counter." }, { "id": "t1_ol1naoq", "author": "/u/jxj", "updated": "2026-05-10T18:59:16+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol1naoq/", "content": "Why free? Car looks cool? the valets like to drive it?" }, { "id": "t1_ol25d9r", "author": "/u/whatyoucallmetoday", "updated": "2026-05-10T20:27:23+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol25d9r/", "content": "Nope. Just the model sold by the dealership who sponsors the garage. We ask if the car had to be newer and the said so. I searched for an old cheap running model." }, { "id": "t1_ol1hej3", "author": "/u/VersionNo6742", "updated": "2026-05-10T18:30:44+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol1hej3/", "content": "I drive a rusty 20 year old box. My bike rack on the things is probably 1/3 of the value of the car. It's a camper, truck, dump hauler, furniture mover in a compact form. Have never owned a car I couldn't afford to lose on the drive home from purchasing it.\n Never having a payment on a depreciating car is part of why I'm making FIRE progress." }, { "id": "t1_ol1k9si", "author": "/u/SlayBoredom", "updated": "2026-05-10T18:44:41+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol1k9si/", "content": "Keep up with whom? other brokies?\n If she tried to keep up with the rich guy at the table, she would try to drive a 14 year old car 😉" }, { "id": "t1_ol1luia", "author": "/u/duckofdeath87", "updated": "2026-05-10T18:52:19+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol1luia/", "content": "Can people still tell what year model a car is? They all look the same for the past thirty years" }, { "id": "t1_olap8z5", "author": "/u/IcySkyDream", "updated": "2026-05-12T02:23:28+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/olap8z5/", "content": "No they don’t. You just don’t have an eye for detail." }, { "id": "t1_ol1nl5k", "author": "/u/Stone804_", "updated": "2026-05-10T19:00:41+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol1nl5k/", "content": "I would have said “I didn’t care what people thought before I was rich which is why I kept the old car, that’s HOW I got rich…” and let that sink in for her." }, { "id": "t1_olaqv4r", "author": "/u/IcySkyDream", "updated": "2026-05-12T02:33:03+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/olaqv4r/", "content": "Too much logic. Her head might explode." }, { "id": "t1_ol1pb6a", "author": "/u/an_older_meme", "updated": "2026-05-10T19:09:08+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol1pb6a/", "content": "My daily is a 1985 Toyota pickup. If older vehicles make you rich I'm Warren Buffet." }, { "id": "t1_ol2n0ya", "author": "/u/Visible_Structure483", "updated": "2026-05-10T21:58:38+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol2n0ya/", "content": "now who's flexing?" }, { "id": "t1_ol2v019", "author": "/u/an_older_meme", "updated": "2026-05-10T22:45:29+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol2v019/", "content": "I’m agreeing" }, { "id": "t1_ol1rso6", "author": "/u/SergeantPoopyWeiner", "updated": "2026-05-10T19:21:10+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol1rso6/", "content": "The mindset of the eternally poor." }, { "id": "t1_ol1xvi6", "author": "/u/Trilobyte83", "updated": "2026-05-10T19:50:30+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol1xvi6/", "content": "I have the privilege of biking everywhere since I have so few time sensitive commitments like having to be at work if it also happens to be raining." }, { "id": "t1_ol253pa", "author": "/u/Not_Legal_Advice_Pod", "updated": "2026-05-10T20:26:05+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol253pa/", "content": "My buddy bought a BMW basically because he was told to by his employer. It was a "if you're going to be successful in your role, you need to project success to clients," thing. I'm not sure how common that is, but certainly you can reach a point inside an organization where you can dress however you want while people lower than you need to wear suits/sharp business casual. Perhaps its something like that?" }, { "id": "t1_ol2qpzj", "author": "/u/Westsideefelinee0601", "updated": "2026-05-10T22:19:58+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol2qpzj/", "content": "I feel like the word "privilege" has morphed significantly in the past decade (understandable why), and I am still unsure how to interpret true privilege versus pure circumstances.\n First off - I acknowledge that life is NOT fair and we all have different starting points (parents that did not divorce while growing up, color of your skin, where you were born, university tuition paid for, trust fund baby, DINKs) - but I feel like it's getting out of control when "acknowledging your privilege".\n One of the most interesting views I've noticed surrounding "privilege" is certain immigrant customs that were once looked down upon but are now having to be adopted by white Americans.\n 1) Living with your family after the age of 18. When I was growing up (child of immigrants in the US, solidly middle-class), there was definitely a stigma around this concept, which is super common in certain immigrant cultures but was considered shameful amongst white Americans. But it seems that now that white Americans are having to resort to this...this situation is now labeled as "privilege". It certainly was not viewed as privilege when I moved in with family when I was unemployed and job-hunting back in my 20s. In exchange I helped nanny considerably younger cousins, and even they (mixed race, born & raised in the US but much wealthier household) thought I was a bit of a loser.\n 2) University or first down deposit paid for by family. I personally was not fortunate to experience this (absolutely no ill will against my family!), but I know so many peers (2nd gen immigrant children) where parents scraped to get these funds together, in tandem with the child too contributing in some way (think scholarships + working in family business while growing up). It just seems odd to lump both Chad (who's white and their dad was employee #32 at Microsoft) and Ahmed (whose PHD-educated parents escaped a despot regime and started over in the US as bodega owners) as equally privileged because their parents paid for college." }, { "id": "t1_ol7j1kr", "author": "/u/pookieglimmer", "updated": "2026-05-11T16:46:13+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol7j1kr/", "content": "The whole thing is kind of a perfect summary of why most people never build wealth... they're so focused on looking rich that they never actually get there. You're literally retired and driving a paid off minivan while they finance a new car to impress people they barely know" }, { "id": "t1_olc18sq", "author": "/u/StressSpiritual8803", "updated": "2026-05-12T08:25:13+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/olc18sq/", "content": "Presumptuous, judgmental, jealous and obnoxious….must have been a church function amiright?" }, { "id": "t1_ol1efmz", "author": "/u/Icy_Spinach_4828", "updated": "2026-05-10T18:16:29+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol1efmz/", "content": "Just the opposite. They are not rich because they constantly spend on “keep up”" }, { "id": "t1_ol1g08m", "author": "/u/temerairevm", "updated": "2026-05-10T18:23:58+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol1g08m/", "content": "That’s odd. I was expecting it to be “I have to have a car that’s under warranty because I can’t afford to pay an unexpected repair bill”. I’ve heard that one before. As if a $600+ per month car payment doesn’t add up to a lot of repair bills." }, { "id": "t1_ol1g9w2", "author": "/u/Weird-Echidna-5261", "updated": "2026-05-10T18:25:16+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol1g9w2/", "content": "If it makes you feel better they would say the same thing if you had a new car too" }, { "id": "t1_ol1ibms", "author": "/u/skunimatrix", "updated": "2026-05-10T18:35:13+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol1ibms/", "content": "We're driving newer cars. I say that and wife's car is 6 years old. But we were in the situation where my father was giving up driving and my wife's car was 12 years old, my Dad's car was 8 years old, and our minivan at the time was 13 years old. We didn't need 3 old cars. Plus he had a GM card with I think $4000 off at the time that was use or lose. So we traded in his car, her car, and used the GM card points and was out the door under $14k cash.\n Two years later the transmission on the minivan started slipping so time to be someone else's vehicle. But we tend to buy new, drive for 12 - 15 years unless something happens. Like two months ago my Acadia got totaled. Ended up with a 2025 XT-6 (same size/engine as our Acadia) that had been a courtesy car with 3k miles on it at $15k discount.\n Granted I also have a 1958 Chevy 3100 Cameo. Not exactly a daily driver, but costs me $800/yr in insurance and maintenance. Like this year I had to rebuild the alternator and I need to refinish the wood bed this winter." }, { "id": "t1_ol1j8t8", "author": "/u/Bearsbanker", "updated": "2026-05-10T18:39:43+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol1j8t8/", "content": "My dad used to say people with new cars "had" money haha, I'm fired and I have a 25 year old car! I love it!" }, { "id": "t1_ol2szf9", "author": "", "updated": "2026-05-10T22:33:25+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol2szf9/", "content": "[deleted]" }, { "id": "t1_ol3kvz8", "author": "/u/Bearsbanker", "updated": "2026-05-11T01:19:24+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol3kvz8/", "content": "2001 bmw 740 IL, 196,600...pretty great condition. Came with a built in phone...you ain't gonna find that in a new car!!" }, { "id": "t1_ol1m2xf", "author": "/u/That-SoCal-Guy", "updated": "2026-05-10T18:53:26+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol1m2xf/", "content": "Some of the richest people I know drive older, non-flashy cars, usually Japanese (and I'm not even talking about Lexus). They don't feel any reason to flaunt. Meanwhile those who are up to their eyebrows with debts are IG-flaunting with their fancy vacations in Maldive and Fiji and driving their top of the line import luxury cars. My neighbor has changed her cars (mostly Mercedes, BMW, Audi, nothing cheap) 5 times now in the last 3 years.\n We used to have two cars (for work reasons) and now we're down to one (a 6yo Hyundai) and life is good." }, { "id": "t1_ol1n33m", "author": "/u/dollythecat", "updated": "2026-05-10T18:58:16+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol1n33m/", "content": "This does reflect a certain truth about the different attitudes in materialism between the classes.\n On the East Coast / in the Midwest of the US, people who come from wealthy backgrounds don’t necessarily prove their status through expensive purchases. They don’t want people to know how much money they have, so you get “stealth wealth.” Less wealthy people in those communities will still try to “keep up with the Joneses” through consumerism.\n (I’ve lived and worked all over the US, and I’ve noticed this doesn’t apply to the West Coast.)" }, { "id": "t1_ol1nm55", "author": "/u/FromTheOR", "updated": "2026-05-10T19:00:49+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol1nm55/", "content": "What happens on the west coast?" }, { "id": "t1_ol1o7j4", "author": "/u/dollythecat", "updated": "2026-05-10T19:03:43+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol1o7j4/", "content": "Rich people look rich.\n I’m personally doing a pretty good job concealing my financial situation though. I think my neighbors in my apartment building think I’m a sex worker." }, { "id": "t1_ol25qvy", "author": "/u/FromTheOR", "updated": "2026-05-10T20:29:16+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol25qvy/", "content": "Go on" }, { "id": "t1_ol1n7vz", "author": "/u/SunRev", "updated": "2026-05-10T18:58:54+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol1n7vz/", "content": "My friend works a huge tech company. His manager was the inventor of one of their best selling products you likely use. He drives a very modest car to work, like an Acura or similar. But at home he has a 50 car collection of Ferraris etc." }, { "id": "t1_ol1nln5", "author": "/u/Economist_hat", "updated": "2026-05-10T19:00:45+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol1nln5/", "content": "Absolutely zero people at my work care what I drive." }, { "id": "t1_ol1r8d7", "author": "/u/HunterBiden_yeah", "updated": "2026-05-10T19:18:30+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol1r8d7/", "content": "people will do anything to justify their shitty decisions. Poor stay poor." }, { "id": "t1_ol1sktd", "author": "/u/Extra-Blueberry-4320", "updated": "2026-05-10T19:24:47+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol1sktd/", "content": "People tell us all the time that we are privileged for having older cars because my husband is a mechanic and knows how to do basic maintenance on them. I think a lot of people have been brainwashed to think old=money pit, unsafe, unreliable. We drive a 15 year old Civic and a 19 year old Cobalt. Neither has ever given us any problems and we just change oil on schedule and replace worn belts, filters, etc as needed. Plus the insurance is cheap. I don’t know if it’s privilege or just knowing what to look for in a used car to make sure it’s not a money pit." }, { "id": "t1_ol1slmu", "author": "/u/oswell_pepper", "updated": "2026-05-10T19:24:54+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol1slmu/", "content": "Drive what tf you want as long as you can afford it. I save $7k every month and I drive the new Audi A6. It’s fun to drive, quiet, and comfortable. If you want to stick to a shitbox for an eternity then more power to you. I just can’t stand when people are being smug about it.\n But that lady’s mentality is also dumb (if true). The concept of “keeping up” is so stupid that it makes me cringe everytime. But personally, i found this mindset to be way more prevalent back in Asia and not so much in the US." }, { "id": "t1_ol1tl71", "author": "/u/Valuable-Asparagus-2", "updated": "2026-05-10T19:29:35+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol1tl71/", "content": "A favorite financial stat of mine is that IN TOTAL, I have only spent $55K on cars for myself in my 40+ years of driving. My current car is a 2011 Hyundai Elantra wagon.\n Before I retired, people who worked on my teams drove very expensive cars. Every once in a while, a young person would ask me for investment advice. My answer usually included my car history as well as a story I not giving in to the consumer impulses. And then I often bought them copies of The Simple Path to Wealth and the Four Pillars of Investing." }, { "id": "t1_ol2a0ll", "author": "/u/ellipticorbit", "updated": "2026-05-10T20:50:29+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol2a0ll/", "content": "That's the thing about resent, there's always something to justify it in the mind of the person feeling it." }, { "id": "t1_ol2c4tm", "author": "/u/ThaiTum", "updated": "2026-05-10T21:01:10+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol2c4tm/", "content": "I stopped caring what those people and the people on this group thinks. I’m going after FIRE so money doesn’t get on the way of my choices and options. I choose to have an exotic car, wear inexpensive clothes, shop at Sam’s Club but take my family on trip in comfort often. I don’t care what people think either way. I don’t need to virtue signal driving a junky car if I don’t want to or flash luxury branded clothing." }, { "id": "t1_ol2dsxk", "author": "/u/MiserablePotato1147", "updated": "2026-05-10T21:09:43+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol2dsxk/", "content": "A little perspective from the opposite end of the spectrum. I'm homeless and deeply in debt. I used to own a successful tech business, but for a variety of reasons, I am currently homeless and out of work. FIRE is a ship that sailed for me a long time ago. I do have an old beater that I drive and live in from time to time. The amount of seething jealousy I receive from paycheck-to-paycheck workers who feel the need to eat fast food, watch cable and lease a vehicle is astounding. Where I sleep at night and when I eat is a constant, neverending struggle for me, but they see no cognitive dissonance in hating me for being poor, and being jealous of my "freedom". That's just how it is for people who have convinced themselves that they're trapped on their treadmill and can't escape. They're not independent, may never be independent, and this is how they justify it to themselves.\n Keep. Going." }, { "id": "t1_ol2gcqx", "author": "/u/jgv1545", "updated": "2026-05-10T21:22:58+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol2gcqx/", "content": "You are right, the irony is incredible. The fact that they can't connect dots to realize that the reason why you are "rich" is because you don't buy a new car every 3 to 5 years is astounding. But it also speaks to why that individual and most individuals won't have financial independence." }, { "id": "t1_ol4098s", "author": "/u/D3ATHSQUAD", "updated": "2026-05-11T02:54:39+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol4098s/", "content": "I think the old car helps get you rich.\n I’ve had my 2009 Mercedes for 16 years and not having a car payment for 13 years or so has definitely helped my savings plan" }, { "id": "t1_ol4oklo", "author": "/u/ohhotdog", "updated": "2026-05-11T05:59:30+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol4oklo/", "content": "Keep up with who? Keeping up with Joneses will waste economic opportunities. Driving an older reliable car is how people obtain FIRE. .. Very ironic." }, { "id": "t1_ol6m9q4", "author": "/u/deathdealer351", "updated": "2026-05-11T14:16:57+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol6m9q4/", "content": "How they keep you poor.. Buying shit you don't need to impress people you don't care about.\n Yes.. Once you break that mindset... You tend to become richer." }, { "id": "t1_ol1eqee", "author": "/u/Few_Dragonfly3000", "updated": "2026-05-10T18:17:53+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol1eqee/", "content": "I’m poor and drive a 15 year old minivan lol 😆 such a privilege." }, { "id": "t1_ol1fi39", "author": "/u/CaveatBettor", "updated": "2026-05-10T18:21:33+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol1fi39/", "content": "Feel rich, instead investing towards it" }, { "id": "t1_ol1g7v9", "author": "/u/Catsdrinkingbeer", "updated": "2026-05-10T18:24:59+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol1g7v9/", "content": "I thought it was going to be about the cost of on going maintenance to keep an older car running. But this is just a weird take." }, { "id": "t1_ol1i3ub", "author": "/u/Ok_Cauliflower_7014", "updated": "2026-05-10T18:34:09+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol1i3ub/", "content": "I disagree with them but I get what they are saying. I happen to not care one lick about what people think of me but I have had many instances of folks assuming I'm poor (or struggling financially) because I drive a 2006 Corolla (by choice). While they have a mortgage, a car payment and credit card debt, I live debt free with no stress due to finances whatsoever. The privilege comes from knowing when the car breaks down that I have the cash to fix it or to replace it with no hardship." }, { "id": "t1_ol1l2sv", "author": "/u/TheGaujo", "updated": "2026-05-10T18:48:35+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol1l2sv/", "content": "When asked about his former band mates take on why he was no longer in the band, Ricky Valley refused to comment but did say "people remember it the way they need to remember it".\n This is like that. People just trying to subconsciously defend their poverty mindsets." }, { "id": "t1_ol1l6he", "author": "/u/anotherawakening", "updated": "2026-05-10T18:49:05+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol1l6he/", "content": "And you’re like “I’m rich because I don’t need to keep up with all you posers” 😂" }, { "id": "t1_ol1lnnw", "author": "/u/clonehunterz", "updated": "2026-05-10T18:51:24+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol1lnnw/", "content": "yeah you're rich, if your starter goes out thats 500$!\n shouldve bought a new car instead for 80k" }, { "id": "t1_ol1lwey", "author": "/u/Interesting_Shake403", "updated": "2026-05-10T18:52:34+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol1lwey/", "content": "I always found it funny how so many people without money waste it on stupid things, and then try and criticize people who have money when they act “cheap” on occasion.\n Relative bought her kid a new car but then was complaining about not having money for XYZ. I worked in I was saving money to get my kid a USED car.\n BTW - I make multiples of what she does and have sent her (and her kids) thousands over the past few years (and no expectation of getting any back)." }, { "id": "t1_ol1ra7u", "author": "/u/SickMon_Fraud", "updated": "2026-05-10T19:18:45+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol1ra7u/", "content": "That’s weird where I live our social circles all look down their nose at us for our 11 and 14 year old cars. Meanwhile I have $2.1million invested and over $85k on a $600,000.00 house lmao." }, { "id": "t1_ol1vqet", "author": "/u/lurksAtDogs", "updated": "2026-05-10T19:40:05+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol1vqet/", "content": "People are justifying their own behaviors.\n That said, I had to give up (sell) my grandfather’s old truck because I couldn’t afford to take care of it. I bought a used civic that I’m still driving 15 years later. It was the right decision for the time, but it still makes me sad." }, { "id": "t1_ol1wc5w", "author": "/u/Megalocerus", "updated": "2026-05-10T19:43:00+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol1wc5w/", "content": "Hmm. When we were mid twenties, my husband bought a car I thought was bigger than we needed because he felt he should have a comfortable back seat for his car pool. And much later, after he was well off, he did get his 13 year old beat up car painted so it looked better in the parking lot." }, { "id": "t1_ol1wdiw", "author": "/u/Evening-Lobster-8239", "updated": "2026-05-10T19:43:11+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol1wdiw/", "content": "How do these acquaintances know you're rich especially if you drive an old minivan?" }, { "id": "t1_ol2f0qq", "author": "/u/RedQueenWhiteQueen", "updated": "2026-05-10T21:15:59+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol2f0qq/", "content": "I assume because OP is FIRE or talks about achieving FIRE. And then that these acquaintances assume everybody works until they are 67 or 70; therefore anyone retiring a decade or two before that is rich." }, { "id": "t1_ol1xuil", "author": "/u/Euphoric_Barracuda_7", "updated": "2026-05-10T19:50:22+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol1xuil/", "content": "Sounds like if you mention you have no car and take public transport you're Elon Musk level rich!" }, { "id": "t1_ol1yn6v", "author": "/u/SkaterStargazer", "updated": "2026-05-10T19:54:17+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol1yn6v/", "content": "I drive a 2017 Prius and I plan to be the one to lay that sweet thang to rest.\n I might get her a paint job in another color so she can feel bonita, but that’s about it. I have no car note. My hybrid fills up with $30-$40 (closer to $20 before this gas nonsense) and gets me 450-500 miles per tank.\n Sure, I get in rental cars for work and think about trading her in when I see all the new bells and whistles some of the new cars have, but why add new expenses unnecessarily? She’s everything I need.\n At the end of the day, people don’t really give af what kind of car I’m driving, and those who do… well they’re not my kind of people." }, { "id": "t1_ol1yupy", "author": "/u/DistributionRight814", "updated": "2026-05-10T19:55:19+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol1yupy/", "content": "this is odd. confused" }, { "id": "t1_ol1zjf2", "author": "/u/ForoElToro", "updated": "2026-05-10T19:58:41+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol1zjf2/", "content": "This is interesting.\n I've gotten a job because of the car I drove.\n I've also lost a job offer because of the car I drove.\n For the vast majority of jobs it hasn't mattered one way or another. To be brutally honest, a boss who makes a decision on the car is generally bad, regardless of the decision.\n My spouse has a much easier time of it because of her vehicle. Factory workers do comment, frequently. She gets more respect for driving that then she would another car. Note: it's 7 years old, but it's been maintained so it looks nice.\n These are primarily blue collar environments, for my spouse and me. That might be part of it." }, { "id": "t1_ol1zpic", "author": "/u/Tripswitchnow", "updated": "2026-05-10T19:59:30+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol1zpic/", "content": "It’s all relative. Where I am in Connecticut people are driving around in obscenely expensive cars, so driving a $130K Lexus SUV seems very frugal to me. Lol\n I’m already retired and we have plenty of money and we just pay cash for things like cars, always have… it seems to have worked for us." }, { "id": "t1_ol22cu0", "author": "/u/Capital-Challenge540", "updated": "2026-05-10T20:12:33+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol22cu0/", "content": "i mean to be fair i think anyone who has their own car is rich period" }, { "id": "t1_ol231gx", "author": "/u/Miserable_Carry_3949", "updated": "2026-05-10T20:15:55+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol231gx/", "content": "I like to respond with something like, "we all choose to spend money on the things we value. For my family, a car is valued at getting us from Point A to Z, and not much more." My husband's car is 10 years old, and mine is 8. We have no interest in a new car any time soon." }, { "id": "t1_ol25s7l", "author": "/u/VengefulAncient", "updated": "2026-05-10T20:29:27+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol25s7l/", "content": "They're not really 'friends', just people I do one activity with and see every week.\n Acquaintances." }, { "id": "t1_ol27dkc", "author": "/u/Faierstarta", "updated": "2026-05-10T20:37:20+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol27dkc/", "content": "Nobody “needs” to keep up, they just choose to. 🤷 😃" }, { "id": "t1_ol27t03", "author": "/u/nak00010101", "updated": "2026-05-10T20:39:27+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol27t03/", "content": "This is the attitude that results in the majority of folk not saving enough to retire.\n The obsession with Keeping Up With The Jones keeps them paycheck to paycheck.\n WE are chubby fired (just barely) but when I look back at vehicles I have driven since I got out of collage, the average age when I got rid of a vehicle has been 11 years, and that was slewed by my midlife crisis Mustang that I only kept 2 years.\n My wife got a new KIA last year and we kept that 12 year old KIA as a spare vehicle. The liability only on the old car is a lot less adding rental car coverage on the other two vehicles.\n Our F250 XLT is the closest thing we have ever had to a luxury vehicle, and we bought that to tow the 5 year old TT we bought from retirement travel." }, { "id": "t1_ol2b26h", "author": "/u/MrLB____", "updated": "2026-05-10T20:55:46+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol2b26h/", "content": "Yeah, who cares what BROKE people think" }, { "id": "t1_ol2clc9", "author": "/u/gimmedemels", "updated": "2026-05-10T21:03:30+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol2clc9/", "content": "I'm pour as shit and drive a 12yr old truck. Rule broken.\n Also you should socialize more." }, { "id": "t1_ol2cw0b", "author": "/u/OliveGarden_Official", "updated": "2026-05-10T21:05:01+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol2cw0b/", "content": "Money’s just a tricky thing. I used to write off the posts in this sub telling me not to share retirement plans with others, even though I once considered FIRE planning one of my hobbies. I’ve learned the hard way that there’s a whole spectrum of responses spanning from admiration of your discipline to actively resenting you. I don’t blame them either, because it can stir up a lot of deeply uncomfortable feelings. I just go with the ”I manage investments” line even though I don’t feel great being dishonest." }, { "id": "t1_ol2fsvd", "author": "/u/ThirstyWolfSpider", "updated": "2026-05-10T21:20:05+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol2fsvd/", "content": "From the title, I was thinking this might makes sense if you drive a Highland Green 1968 Ford Mustang GT fastback. A 13-year-old minivan, though … that's just normal car-driving, at least for people with a drive-it-into-the-ground habit who live far from salted roads. Our 13-year-old Fiat doesn't exactly get much attention (pro or con)." }, { "id": "t1_ol2jms8", "author": "/u/mlkefromaccounting", "updated": "2026-05-10T21:40:16+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol2jms8/", "content": "Congrats. It’s weird you’re already where you are while still lacking the, “not give a fuck what other people think” mentality\n Honestly… who cares? Your concerns are minimal and you’re being bothered by what other people (strangers in a weird social club) think about you. Do what’s right for you… care less about what other people think and move on or grow up" }, { "id": "t1_ol2k917", "author": "/u/cliftonhanger90", "updated": "2026-05-10T21:43:36+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol2k917/", "content": "Love it……’99 Pickup truck and 2017 Honda ………privileged indeed…….do not care…..this is the way" }, { "id": "t1_ol2lu8u", "author": "/u/premoistenedfrog", "updated": "2026-05-10T21:52:05+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol2lu8u/", "content": "I have three cars that range from 16-19 years old. One seasonal car and two year round workhorses. They are of a discontinued brand. On one hand I don’t have car payments… On the other, I spend between two and $3000 a year to maintain each one.\n Driving an older car is cheaper. But also a privilege." }, { "id": "t1_ol2qy5o", "author": "/u/AvidVenturest", "updated": "2026-05-10T22:21:18+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol2qy5o/", "content": "This is such a weird thing for people to hyper focus on. Maybe it’s because I work remotely, but not once have I ever thought about what kind of car any of my coworkers or friends drove. I think the only time it’s ever come up is when we need to know how many seats someone has for carpooling or if a car has high enough clearance or AWD for forest roads and bad weather. And even then, age is not the factor." }, { "id": "t1_ol2x1a0", "author": "/u/JacksonFatBack", "updated": "2026-05-10T22:57:38+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol2x1a0/", "content": "If a billionaire rides a bicycle to work, it's cool. If I do it, it's because I cannot afford a car.\n The logic is straightforward. You don't need to signal success via a car if you have other signals. If you lack those signals though, then a car is a better way.\n This is a type of pecuniary consumption. People emulate the class above them (but not 2 or 3 above).\n Gosling's character says it best in Crazy, Stupid Love: https://www.youtube.com/shorts/BbWzEHIgsOs" }, { "id": "t1_ol2x5dg", "author": "/u/mildlyannoyed32", "updated": "2026-05-10T22:58:19+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol2x5dg/", "content": "Haters gonna hate." }, { "id": "t1_ol31qvc", "author": "/u/Fidrych76", "updated": "2026-05-10T23:25:39+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol31qvc/", "content": "A new car is one of the only luxuries that I’ve actually allowed myself in retirement. Used to get 10-12 years from a car. Now it’s 3 or 4." }, { "id": "t1_ol358jk", "author": "/u/When_I_Grow_Up_50ish", "updated": "2026-05-10T23:46:26+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol358jk/", "content": "Drive a safe car. Your millions will not matter if you’re dead." }, { "id": "t1_ol5r0nx", "author": "/u/ratedsar", "updated": "2026-05-11T11:24:01+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol5r0nx/", "content": "From an impact perspective, side curtain airbags from the early 2000s were a huge upgrade in safety - the nex just substantial increases is the front collision assist with automated braking that started becoming normal in 2017 luxury models." }, { "id": "t1_ol5u13u", "author": "/u/When_I_Grow_Up_50ish", "updated": "2026-05-11T11:43:52+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol5u13u/", "content": "An older car that can stall or die at any moment is also very unsafe.\n A wealthy friend of mine drove his 30 year old BMW daily as a badge of honor. It was not safe to drive." }, { "id": "t1_ol5vcr0", "author": "/u/ratedsar", "updated": "2026-05-11T11:52:16+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol5vcr0/", "content": "Obd2 became standard in 1996, by 2004 vehicles have a wideband o² sensor. Synethic oil also became the factory norm in this timerangem\n There are few reasons why a 13-20 year old car should stall or die at any minute if it has no engine codes and is getting regular quality inpections.\n Source; 3 members of my near family have 2004 year (in 2026) vehicles that get 30+mpg, have side impact air bags, are between 150 and 250k miles. None of us have lights on dashboards. None of us are concerned about break downs - including multi state trips. Mine is also lots of fun to drive (and I take it to occasional high performance driving events)(that also means that my brake systems and tires are in better shape than most cars that are more than 3 years old at any given time)." }, { "id": "t1_ol35zeh", "author": "/u/WkndWarrior12345054", "updated": "2026-05-10T23:50:52+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol35zeh/", "content": "Going from keep up to frugal to don’t give a fuck is a flex" }, { "id": "t1_ol36omi", "author": "/u/nullstring", "updated": "2026-05-10T23:55:03+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol36omi/", "content": "People say it makes no sense but... actually it makes a ton of sense.\n Basically, the general populous is pretentious as hell. They feel they have to have to wear designer bags and other status symbols in order to show others that they've 'made it'.\n The irony of the situation, is the need to show these status symbols is exactly how you know you -haven't- made it.\n I grew up in a well-off very frugal and conservative household. And so my perspective is warped into entirely the opposite direction. The thing is- It's very easy to tell which people are struggling/coasting financially but still putting down $$$ for items they shouldn't. And due to my upbringing I find it very difficult not to look down on these people." }, { "id": "t1_ol36xaq", "author": "/u/WoodpeckerCapital167", "updated": "2026-05-10T23:56:31+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol36xaq/", "content": "Whut?\n That is the weirdest interpretation for a flex I’ve heard. I figured u were driving a classic or something.\n Well enjoy that minivan you rich jerk!!!\n Lol" }, { "id": "t1_ol37fi9", "author": "/u/lobstahpotts", "updated": "2026-05-10T23:59:32+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol37fi9/", "content": "I figured it was because yes, a breakdown isn't going to make me late to work, and that most trips are optional for me\n The funny thing is if she'd said this, it would have been an entirely reasonable argument!\n I loved my older cars and would happily have kept driving them, but my circumstances changed and I needed the reliability of a newer model. My friends were the exact same way - happy to drive a couple 20 year old beaters until their kids started having different events and obligations, raising the stakes of a breakdown and the lack of modern safety features.\n I'm in a fairly status-conscious city surrounded by fairly well-off people. I can't remember the last time I heard this kind of cars-as-status-symbols talk from working professionals. If anything, the status item was an EV before Tesla became a more controversial pick with that set." }, { "id": "t1_ol3dbwz", "author": "/u/800oz_gorilla", "updated": "2026-05-11T00:34:50+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol3dbwz/", "content": "The sad thing is, there's some truth to it. People who "look the part" get the promotion all to often." }, { "id": "t1_ol3fidx", "author": "/u/gametapchunky", "updated": "2026-05-11T00:47:41+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol3fidx/", "content": "Might need new friends if they actively resent you for your success. A little ribbing is fun, but real resentment isn't cool." }, { "id": "t1_ol3h5nc", "author": "/u/marcduberge", "updated": "2026-05-11T00:57:17+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol3h5nc/", "content": "We have a 98, 05, 06 to choose from with a combined value of $15-17k. If one craps out (and they never really do) the two of us are fine. We do have a brand spanking new 2018 VW for long road trips, but I would trust any of them for that long honestly. We save a ton on insurance and DMV fees. I couldn’t imagine driving a new $80k car." }, { "id": "t1_ol3hja2", "author": "/u/Otherwise_Tooth_8695", "updated": "2026-05-11T00:59:29+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol3hja2/", "content": "Jealous people will use any criteria to knock you down a few pegs. Just keep being awesome and know they wish they were in your shoes." }, { "id": "t1_ol3r7cb", "author": "/u/Lyralou", "updated": "2026-05-11T01:58:16+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol3r7cb/", "content": "Ok. I'm not rich, but I'm doing ok. Here's where driving an old car is a privilege. This is a lot like the Vimes boots theory. iykyk\n When I was younger, and very much not doing ok, I drove old cars, and could barely keep them up. Didn't do the maintenance, cause $$$. At some point, the monthly breakdowns and fixes were more than a car payment. I was lucky enough to take over someone's lease, and even with more insurance, it was a lot less money and hassle than my old car. Yay? It was still pricey. (One should not be on a first-name basis with the AAA tow truck driver, unless they're in your social circle. Seriously had some epic breakdowns.)\n Now that I'm doing ok, I bought a new car some dozen-odd years ago. I kept up the maintenance well enough. It keeps running, I keep driving it, I'll put a little $$ into it every six months or so. It's been paid off for a long time, and I spend way less than I did either when making payments or when paying for neglect-fixes.\n I have the - yes - privilege of being able to maintain an old car and not have the payments and additional insurance that comes with a new car. I can save those ducats.\n I also have the privilege of knowing that if there were a major repair I could deal without going into debt and if it were bad enough I could bite the bullet and get something new. Less money, less risk overall. And either way, a breakdown on the way to work is not going to jeopardize my job cause I don't have that kind of job.\n I can see the privilege aspect. I also think it's a little rude, but probably in line with the times, for your social buddies to comment on your financial status in the first place. But I get it, people are hurting right now. It's a complicated world out there.\n No advice, just some perspective." }, { "id": "t1_ol3s108", "author": "/u/ingodwetryst", "updated": "2026-05-11T02:03:16+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol3s108/", "content": "The 'keep up' part is weird, but actual broke people with shit credit frequently get stuck driving cars they can't afford because it's all a greedy lot will approve them for. 8 year, 13% loans too. I'm guessing these are normies who want to look rich though." }, { "id": "t1_ol42b0j", "author": "/u/Inner-Chemistry2576", "updated": "2026-05-11T03:08:37+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol42b0j/", "content": "“We have the privilege of driving an old car because we’re rich apparently”\n Sounds like they’re jealous they would rather waste money on newer vehicles status quo.\n I purchased new 09 Tacoma now 218,000 miles incurred $4000 substantial repair costs, which I find frustrating because I could have had the job done more affordably. This experience has made me question the definition of “rich.” While I am not cheap, I do not condone excessive spending on vehicles or classic cars, which I own and intend to sell because I am unwilling to invest in repairs when they break down. Also, the 87 Supra vintage takes up room in my garage for my Tacoma." }, { "id": "t1_ol433ub", "author": "/u/Living_Ostrich1456", "updated": "2026-05-11T03:14:11+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol433ub/", "content": "Buy a 1965/66 mustang in mint condition" }, { "id": "t1_ol43pjy", "author": "/u/garoodah", "updated": "2026-05-11T03:18:22+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol43pjy/", "content": "Just remind them they don’t need to keep up to get rich lol" }, { "id": "t1_ol48vil", "author": "/u/maddog2271", "updated": "2026-05-11T03:55:10+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol48vil/", "content": "That has got to be the weirdest logic I have ever heard but it does make a kind of perverse sense in their world." }, { "id": "t1_ol4g93y", "author": "/u/MiningEarth", "updated": "2026-05-11T04:51:06+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol4g93y/", "content": "Driving a car that still runs on gasoline is very expensive." }, { "id": "t1_ol4yl9y", "author": "/u/hi-bp", "updated": "2026-05-11T07:26:29+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol4yl9y/", "content": "Mittlerweile spielen die Werkstatt kosten eine große rolle. Irgendwann sind die reperaturen teurer als der wertverlust eines neuen Autos." }, { "id": "t1_ol50yi4", "author": "/u/Nev-Ret-Dude", "updated": "2026-05-11T07:48:07+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol50yi4/", "content": "My wife has (almost always) had new cars. She was t-boned early in our marriage and I wanted her to come home. Lately I have purchased new. She stopped driving and only have one car. Not rich, just nicely middle class and retired when I was 55." }, { "id": "t1_ol533f6", "author": "/u/stelbunny", "updated": "2026-05-11T08:07:18+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol533f6/", "content": "The whole 'keeping up with the Joneses' thing is exactly the trap that keeps most people from ever reaching FIRE in the first place. Driving a paid off old car while your net worth quietly grows is the move." }, { "id": "t1_ol59shi", "author": "/u/Leobluetrailmap", "updated": "2026-05-11T09:07:37+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol59shi/", "content": "It’s wild how perspective shifts once you stop viewing a car as a status symbol and start seeing it as a tool. Most people are trapped in that 'keeping up' cycle because they feel they have to prove their success.\n Having the freedom to drive a 13-year-old minivan without a care in the world is a much bigger flex than a monthly lease payment. It’s basically the ultimate sign that you’ve already won the game." }, { "id": "t1_ol5kn44", "author": "/u/XXCIII", "updated": "2026-05-11T10:38:49+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol5kn44/", "content": "This is exactly why I don’t talk about finances with basically anyone in my life outside of my household. Even family members will start acting different , like it’s rude of you to not spend money for something or belittling your problems because they think money solves everything." }, { "id": "t1_ol5n8iv", "author": "/u/KW160", "updated": "2026-05-11T10:57:45+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol5n8iv/", "content": "Who are they trying to “keep up” with? Other fake rich people? Why?" }, { "id": "t1_ol5oqy0", "author": "/u/X-croto", "updated": "2026-05-11T11:08:21+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol5oqy0/", "content": "I have friends who cannot afford a certain lifestyle, invite me, who can afford that easily, for events that offer poor value but sound rich" }, { "id": "t1_ol5w2ni", "author": "/u/DeltaSqueezer", "updated": "2026-05-11T11:56:43+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol5w2ni/", "content": "Find a different group to socialize with." }, { "id": "t1_ol61duu", "author": "/u/WheelLeast1873", "updated": "2026-05-11T12:28:27+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol61duu/", "content": "Seeing married couples not retired together is strange to me." }, { "id": "t1_ol65j6k", "author": "/u/Beginning-Seaweed-67", "updated": "2026-05-11T12:52:03+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol65j6k/", "content": "That’s the dumbest thing I’ve ever heard. There isn’t rich don’t have to work and poor have to work there is tons of intermediary states like rich enough to not have to work but not rich enough to fly a jet or own a Lamborghini without serious financial strain. Then there is are you rich enough to put your net worth into bonds and use that interest to pay off a house or pay a mortgage on it? So stupid." }, { "id": "t1_ol67e13", "author": "/u/Rake-7613", "updated": "2026-05-11T13:02:12+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol67e13/", "content": "First rule of RE club is don’t talk about RE club!" }, { "id": "t1_ol7pdyt", "author": "/u/ApprehensiveWash7969", "updated": "2026-05-11T17:14:09+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol7pdyt/", "content": "Almost sounds like a back handed compliment. But in some respects its true. IMO if your stuck having to purchase new cars all the time because your trying to keep up then your stuck losing money all the time. But if you got smart and made enough money that you do not care about appearance and can drive that old car without consequence then I can see where that "privileged" comment comes from." }, { "id": "t1_ol7tuqy", "author": "/u/Sharp_Oral", "updated": "2026-05-11T17:33:46+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol7tuqy/", "content": "This has come up in my office….\n I make just under $1m per year - I drive a 1986 F250 that I make the fuel for.\n I can afford to be late - I can afford to “cancel the day” and just stay home to dick around with the glow plugs, or get a rental for a week - $1,000 surprises are no big deal.\n My employees - that are all paid well above average for our area, are driving <5 year old cars - but they have to come in for the paycheck. Several have needed personal “loans” just to fill up their gas tank.\n It’s weird." }, { "id": "t1_ol7v9wa", "author": "/u/whofungpu", "updated": "2026-05-11T17:40:01+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol7v9wa/", "content": "2013 Corolla, no issues in 134k. It's not privilege, it's common sense." }, { "id": "t1_ol8a93q", "author": "/u/ProfessionNo698", "updated": "2026-05-11T18:47:42+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol8a93q/", "content": "IYKYK\n 14yo daily driver 29yo truck 61yo fun/project car\n Everything I need. No car payment. No need to “keep up”." }, { "id": "t1_ol8pbkq", "author": "/u/Johnsisland1968", "updated": "2026-05-11T19:56:57+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol8pbkq/", "content": "Who cares what they think.It matters what you think and if you are comfortable with your vehicle let it go." }, { "id": "t1_ol9s46m", "author": "/u/Cool-Pea-5851", "updated": "2026-05-11T23:11:34+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol9s46m/", "content": "That's some ass-backward logic" }, { "id": "t1_olb79o3", "author": "/u/BTS_ARMYMOM", "updated": "2026-05-12T04:21:16+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/olb79o3/", "content": "I just got rid of my 18 year old minivan." }, { "id": "t1_old5dcl", "author": "/u/Strazdas1", "updated": "2026-05-12T13:05:27+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/old5dcl/", "content": "Driving a car, any car, is a privilege and a luxury." }, { "id": "t1_oldrdp6", "author": "/u/wavepoint", "updated": "2026-05-12T14:50:43+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/oldrdp6/", "content": "I expect it was a joke. It’s a comical irony. The deep feeling of comfort that comes from “being rich” means you don’t care about keeping up with the joneses.\n Don’t overthink it. They were likely complimenting you and making a self depreciating joke at the silliness of life." }, { "id": "t1_oli477m", "author": "/u/Vegetable_Guest_8584", "updated": "2026-05-13T03:50:51+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/oli477m/", "content": "That's just a stupid comment by one random person. They could have said you look bad because you have an old car, or you are smart because you have an old car and save money, as the FIRE person you are." }, { "id": "t1_oli9d3m", "author": "/u/flateplane", "updated": "2026-05-13T04:26:48+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/oli9d3m/", "content": "True. I ride a bike" }, { "id": "t1_olnxkcr", "author": "/u/ragg5th", "updated": "2026-05-13T23:39:13+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/olnxkcr/", "content": "24 year old maxima, beautiful condition. I don't care." }, { "id": "t1_ol1d616", "author": "/u/flightwatcher45", "updated": "2026-05-10T18:10:33+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol1d616/", "content": "Yeah those old exotics more than the modern ones huh." }, { "id": "t1_ol1dpeu", "author": "/u/NoMoRatRace", "updated": "2026-05-10T18:13:04+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol1dpeu/", "content": "The American way. Life of debt "keeping up"... So dumb." }, { "id": "t1_ol1jgvk", "author": "/u/Deep-Reputation-4055", "updated": "2026-05-10T18:40:48+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol1jgvk/", "content": "This debt way of life funds outsized equity returns though." }, { "id": "t1_ol1e1ki", "author": "/u/SouthOrlandoFather", "updated": "2026-05-10T18:14:39+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol1e1ki/", "content": "Did this happen in the U.S.? If so, I’m guessing had to be either coast." }, { "id": "t1_ol1enyr", "author": "/u/Visible_Structure483", "updated": "2026-05-10T18:17:34+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol1enyr/", "content": "east coast." }, { "id": "t1_ol1g9b5", "author": "/u/TunaCanTheMan", "updated": "2026-05-10T18:25:11+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol1g9b5/", "content": "I remember reading articles about how most spending on luxury goods (not calling a new car an explicit luxury car, but still) are bought by lower income people. Or for example, think about how many people spend their tax return frivolously when they have no money to spare, instead of saving and investing.\n Basically, I think that a lot of people, especially people who grew up feeling like they were “seen as poor” feel like they have to project some kind of image so no one thinks that of them, which ironically, often keeps them from accumulating wealth. I feel like that’s what this touched on, how someone who others know is comfortable feels no need to flash wealth foolishly to impress, but someone who is not seen that way can sometimes feel like they need to flash what little wealth they do have.\n I know, it makes no great sense to me either, but it’s just a perspective I had heard that I’ve thought about a lot in these types of circumstances." }, { "id": "t1_ol1gcds", "author": "/u/BroKComputer", "updated": "2026-05-10T18:25:36+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol1gcds/", "content": "Cope." }, { "id": "t1_ol1gjs1", "author": "/u/RealAramis", "updated": "2026-05-10T18:26:34+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol1gjs1/", "content": "Are you sure they weren’t just making a joke? Sounds like it might’ve been some well-intended sarcasm." }, { "id": "t1_ol1gw82", "author": "/u/Visible_Structure483", "updated": "2026-05-10T18:28:15+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol1gw82/", "content": "she seemed salty about it, so if it was a joke her comedic timing was way off." }, { "id": "t1_ol28mqy", "author": "/u/RealAramis", "updated": "2026-05-10T20:43:35+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol28mqy/", "content": "Got it. Awkward thing to say in that case.." }, { "id": "t1_ol1gmmh", "author": "/u/Captlard", "updated": "2026-05-10T18:26:57+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol1gmmh/", "content": "Thank and appreciate them for the keeping up! They keep the markets going!" }, { "id": "t1_ol1gve8", "author": "/u/Mother-Branch7183", "updated": "2026-05-10T18:28:08+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol1gve8/", "content": "I must be so rich. I drive a 20 year old car 🤣" }, { "id": "t1_ol1gz59", "author": "/u/unbalancedcheckbook", "updated": "2026-05-10T18:28:38+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol1gz59/", "content": "It is a weird take. Still there is a bit of a backwards dynamic that occurs around car purchases. If you don't have a lot of money and not the best credit, it is usually easier to get a loan for a new car than a used one. That said I think people drastically overestimate the costs to keep an older car running vs buying a new one in order to justify getting a new car. When I didn't have any money I drove clunkers and they did cause me some hassles and I did have to pay to get them repaired (I did minor things myself)... Still having a new car payment would have been more." }, { "id": "t1_ol1h0au", "author": "/u/pacman2081", "updated": "2026-05-10T18:28:48+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol1h0au/", "content": "I have two cars - one relatively new 2019 and one 2012. I make it a point to drive the 2019 car to upscale neighborhoods." }, { "id": "t1_ol1h13n", "author": "/u/ThrowawayLDS_7gen", "updated": "2026-05-10T18:28:54+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol1h13n/", "content": "That's the point! The rich don't have to care and we don't. It's beautiful!" }, { "id": "t1_ol1h6rb", "author": "/u/LunaSails007", "updated": "2026-05-10T18:29:40+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol1h6rb/", "content": "Be rich > appear rich" }, { "id": "t1_ol1i6he", "author": "/u/_AT198", "updated": "2026-05-10T18:34:30+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol1i6he/", "content": "My uncle was a corporate controller for a publicly traded co. in europe and my aunt was one of the earliest IBM employees with stock options, they both drive older honda accord hybrids and own property in 4 states. Never cared about fancy cars. Good lesson to learn!" }, { "id": "t1_ol1id08", "author": "/u/GambledMyWifeAway", "updated": "2026-05-10T18:35:24+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol1id08/", "content": "And then everyone clapped" }, { "id": "t1_ol1jl0d", "author": "/u/Lonely-Crew8955", "updated": "2026-05-10T18:41:22+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol1jl0d/", "content": "A breakdown could mean missing a flight. A breakdown could mean more likely to be stranded by the roadside in extreme weather conditions waiting for the tow truck. The tow truck driver could be rich too!" }, { "id": "t1_ol1qvz3", "author": "/u/an_older_meme", "updated": "2026-05-10T19:16:50+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol1qvz3/", "content": "That's why we leave for the airport hours beforehand. If we break down we can get the car towed to a buddy's house and call Uber and still make the flight." }, { "id": "t1_ol1sw7n", "author": "/u/Visible_Structure483", "updated": "2026-05-10T19:26:15+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol1sw7n/", "content": "we get rides from our neighbors to the airport, skipping the first step all together.\n the minivan makes a great airport shuttle when it's my turn to return the favor." }, { "id": "t1_ol1tr87", "author": "/u/an_older_meme", "updated": "2026-05-10T19:30:23+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol1tr87/", "content": "We only use Uber to get to the airport. It eliminates the breakdown risk (just call another one) and we're too cheap to pay for parking." }, { "id": "t1_ol1krw4", "author": "/u/SouthernZorro", "updated": "2026-05-10T18:47:07+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol1krw4/", "content": "No, the rest of them don't have to keep up. They just decide to. Choices." }, { "id": "t1_ol1ldqs", "author": "/u/Yewdall1852", "updated": "2026-05-10T18:50:04+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol1ldqs/", "content": "My car is almost 15 years old." }, { "id": "t1_ol1lrfx", "author": "/u/PantherThing", "updated": "2026-05-10T18:51:54+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol1lrfx/", "content": ""A 2013 car? Why, that must break down so much that only a rich person could possibly afford to have such a thing! Are we talking 4 breakdowns a month, or is it really bad, like 7?"" }, { "id": "t1_ol1mzrh", "author": "/u/StrebLab", "updated": "2026-05-10T18:57:49+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol1mzrh/", "content": "I have thought about this before. I work a profession where a simple Google search would tell you I am probably making somewhere in the mid six figures. I drive a 20+ year old Camry so obviously I could buy something nicer, but it still runs great and never breaks down so I don't see much point. I'm not a car guy. That said, can't say I ever made a purchase to "keep up" even when I made a lot less." }, { "id": "t1_ol1n3zr", "author": "/u/Fit_Evidence_4958", "updated": "2026-05-10T18:58:23+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol1n3zr/", "content": "BS, he puts himself in the rat race, he wants to do it. Nobody needs a new car to “keep up”.\n Get the right friends, that’s it." }, { "id": "t1_ol1o1yk", "author": "/u/Forsaken_Thought", "updated": "2026-05-10T19:02:57+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol1o1yk/", "content": "I've thought about this a lot, actually.\n I currently drive a 25 year old F150 with nearly 300K mi. A breakdown doesn't set me back much because I have an emergency fund. However my vehicle is generally maintained so that I don't have breakdowns.\n One could say I'm afforded the opportunity to drive an older vehicle because I have money. This is true...\n Having an older vehicle (with no note) allowed me to save money. Now I can afford to keep it up how I choose because I saved money.\n Perhaps those with notes are jelly." }, { "id": "t1_ol1t1bz", "author": "/u/ghazghaz", "updated": "2026-05-10T19:26:56+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol1t1bz/", "content": "People in this sub care too much about other people and what others do with their money. She probably wanted to say something to not offend you and you took it seriously." }, { "id": "t1_ol1t3qn", "author": "/u/neomoritate", "updated": "2026-05-10T19:27:15+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol1t3qn/", "content": "Who TF do they "have to keep up" with? Every low income person I know who owns a car, owns an old car, but not old enough to be desirable." }, { "id": "t1_ol1vsso", "author": "/u/moot-moot", "updated": "2026-05-10T19:40:24+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol1vsso/", "content": "The real question is how they know your rich?" }, { "id": "t1_ol1wd7n", "author": "/u/Visible_Structure483", "updated": "2026-05-10T19:43:09+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol1wd7n/", "content": "retired, so I must have money. right?" }, { "id": "t1_ol1w64w", "author": "/u/Artificial_Squab", "updated": "2026-05-10T19:42:13+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol1w64w/", "content": "That's...wild.\n Also, how do they know you're rich if you're not friends?" }, { "id": "t1_olatzsa", "author": "/u/IcySkyDream", "updated": "2026-05-12T02:52:02+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/olatzsa/", "content": "People assume I’m rich although I dress like a clean hobo. 🤷" }, { "id": "t1_ol1znic", "author": "/u/Foreign_Vegetable_57", "updated": "2026-05-10T19:59:14+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol1znic/", "content": "I "Keep up" on all the routine maintenance of my 2016 Chevy Cruze. I did buy it new. Before that it was a 1998 chevy Cavalier that I got in 2001. I did have a $800 motorcycle at one time. I am not against people buying new vehicles if they hang onto them for 10-15 years or more. I do know getting a 2-3 year old car removes alot of the depreciation, but I HAVE to know about that car's previous history. I am hoping I can get another 10 years out of the Chevy Cruze but I like seeing how long I can keep a vehicle." }, { "id": "t1_ol25q9j", "author": "/u/Spartikis", "updated": "2026-05-10T20:29:11+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol25q9j/", "content": "Coping mechanism" }, { "id": "t1_ol26hfk", "author": "/u/Purple_Current1089", "updated": "2026-05-10T20:32:54+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol26hfk/", "content": "And this person’s comment about you driving an old car is why people should STFU!🤬" }, { "id": "t1_ol275kd", "author": "/u/davideddings1978", "updated": "2026-05-10T20:36:13+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol275kd/", "content": "Our last car was 15 years old when we replaced it for a new one." }, { "id": "t1_ol2hdp9", "author": "/u/Jebgogh", "updated": "2026-05-10T21:28:24+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol2hdp9/", "content": "I thought this was like you have a 1970s Mercedes or something like that and the maintenance is like a car payment. Like your rich you don’t mind driving an old car that cost you an arm and leg to maintain. Not this. This is the opposite of what I thought." }, { "id": "t1_ol2sx59", "author": "/u/Willing_Difficulty99", "updated": "2026-05-10T22:33:02+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol2sx59/", "content": "My 1984 MB 240d 5spd in Manila Yellow resembles this remark. We call him Gunther. I actually consider it the last working man’s Mercedes, since you have to adjust the valves and do basic maintenance." }, { "id": "t1_ol2t96k", "author": "/u/Jebgogh", "updated": "2026-05-10T22:35:03+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol2t96k/", "content": "Do you have the vacuum lines for the locks? I had a 1970 450 SEL and tracking down leaks in the vacuum lines just about drove me insane." }, { "id": "t1_ol2vh4p", "author": "/u/Willing_Difficulty99", "updated": "2026-05-10T22:48:20+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol2vh4p/", "content": "Yep, replace them every 10 years. Easier just to do it than try and troubleshoot it. But a mity-vac does help to isolate sections. I made a complete length and diagram after the first time. I have threatened to put the 5 cyl in there, and have a low mileage 300CD in the garage, but the 240d just keeps going. The only things I’ve replaced besides rubber and maintenance items is the headliner." }, { "id": "t1_ol35tsw", "author": "/u/Jebgogh", "updated": "2026-05-10T23:49:57+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol35tsw/", "content": "And you get the most satisfying weighty “thonk” sound when you close a door. Mine was gas and just cruised at 70. Felt like at 70mph it just “settled in” and got comfortable. Best car for long drives Someone hit it while parked, their insurance valued it as total given age but a fraction of what it would take to fix. (This was early 2000s) My dream retirement car is a mid 70s 450 Sl The two seater. Just a beautiful car and peak Mercedes." }, { "id": "t1_ol37d1e", "author": "/u/Willing_Difficulty99", "updated": "2026-05-10T23:59:07+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol37d1e/", "content": "Mine is a 1978 V123 300d MB limousine, I have a buddy that has one stored from an old Los Angeles executive car business; it’s complete but has been sitting since early nineties when it fell out of fashion. It will be mine, oh yes it will be mine. lol" }, { "id": "t1_ol38hx5", "author": "/u/Jebgogh", "updated": "2026-05-11T00:06:03+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol38hx5/", "content": "That would be a great ride for the grandkids and you could make some side money doing weddings" }, { "id": "t1_ol2qalv", "author": "/u/Phaeron", "updated": "2026-05-10T22:17:29+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol2qalv/", "content": "That person is simply an idiot… don’t try to wrap your mind around someone who sacrifices such for little more than their image (as cited)." }, { "id": "t1_ol382m5", "author": "/u/bob_pipe_layer", "updated": "2026-05-11T00:03:27+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol382m5/", "content": "I have a 14 year old tundra and still working so I guess I'm just plain poor." }, { "id": "t1_ol3cg8z", "author": "/u/Carolina_Hurricane", "updated": "2026-05-11T00:29:40+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol3cg8z/", "content": "That’s one of the most outlandish and ignorant comments I’ve ever heard. Sounds like a backhanded compliment." }, { "id": "t1_ol3h7tc", "author": "/u/DietAny5009", "updated": "2026-05-11T00:57:38+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol3h7tc/", "content": "You should have just said no we have money because we never cared about keeping up and walked away." }, { "id": "t1_ol3hg8w", "author": "/u/Odd-Judgment-9312", "updated": "2026-05-11T00:59:01+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol3hg8w/", "content": "What a weird take." }, { "id": "t1_ol3j3dd", "author": "/u/One_Talk_3410", "updated": "2026-05-11T01:08:40+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol3j3dd/", "content": "New cars are too much of an unnecessary expense. I don’t know anyone that actually cares what other people drive." }, { "id": "t1_ol3yuqn", "author": "/u/Docautrisim2", "updated": "2026-05-11T02:45:23+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol3yuqn/", "content": "I get that. I’m partially retired my bring home is 160kish a year. I’m not rich but I do ok. Both my wife and I drive solid older cars. She’s got a paid off Honda odyssey that’s 10 years old and I have a paid off 07 ford ranger that is my daily." }, { "id": "t1_ol4jy53", "author": "/u/Few-Improvement9978", "updated": "2026-05-11T05:21:05+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol4jy53/", "content": "I think this was weirdly meant to be a compliment lol" }, { "id": "t1_ol5twnp", "author": "/u/gtownsend86", "updated": "2026-05-11T11:43:05+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol5twnp/", "content": "The cognitive dissonance is loud in that one. What a waste." }, { "id": "t1_ol5utad", "author": "/u/Equivalent-Glove7165", "updated": "2026-05-11T11:48:52+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol5utad/", "content": "Their thinking is absolutely skewed. Keep on truckin’ and leave these fools in the dust!!!" }, { "id": "t1_ol6lxij", "author": "/u/iJasonRam", "updated": "2026-05-11T14:15:22+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol6lxij/", "content": "Yep… they HAVE TO “keep up” 😆 so dumb" }, { "id": "t1_ol6oim4", "author": "/u/Demeter_Crusher", "updated": "2026-05-11T14:27:32+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol6oim4/", "content": "Assortative mating issue, maybe? You can see what the kind of post-work world might look like in Regency Romances, and you don't have to dive any deeper than watching a couple of episodes of Bridgerton to see that the appearance of wealth, not it's reality, is key in the marriage mart." }, { "id": "t1_ol8dlhq", "author": "/u/racsos1", "updated": "2026-05-11T19:02:53+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol8dlhq/", "content": "Wow, what a silly excuse." }, { "id": "t1_oldxpj9", "author": "/u/m3hl", "updated": "2026-05-12T15:18:50+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/oldxpj9/", "content": "New cars are not more reliable. Full stop." }, { "id": "t1_olebcg0", "author": "/u/Working_Bones", "updated": "2026-05-12T16:18:51+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/olebcg0/", "content": "Wow, that's stupid as hell." }, { "id": "t1_olip7ws", "author": "/u/Appropriate-Bar6993", "updated": "2026-05-13T06:29:57+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/olip7ws/", "content": "I know what they mean." }, { "id": "t1_olu2bvd", "author": "/u/Available_Ride4215", "updated": "2026-05-14T21:08:21+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/olu2bvd/", "content": "Some people are meant to be ignored." }, { "id": "t1_om2grq1", "author": "/u/default_admin_2", "updated": "2026-05-16T03:12:13+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/om2grq1/", "content": "I will say being able to afford breakdowns and that they dont entirely ruin your budgeting is definitely a privilege. Its much easier to budget a 300 monthly expense than a random amount at some point. Especially when you are struggling already." }, { "id": "t1_ombo91m", "author": "/u/Swissvalley2025", "updated": "2026-05-17T15:43:09+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ombo91m/", "content": "When you see car commercials state “you deserve luxury”, or you’re somehow filled with patriotic pride because you drive the latest horribly expensive, somewhat unreliable vehicle, you don’t wonder why people go so deep into debt for a car. For them, it’s a quick upgrade to their stays in the neighborhood/society. These same folks will complain about the cost of everything else." }, { "id": "t1_ol1g5sh", "author": "/u/TheDunk67", "updated": "2026-05-10T18:24:43+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol1g5sh/", "content": "The mind boggles. "Keep up" with what? I don't understand the scenario in which spending tens of thousands of dollars every few years on a vehicles earns one more money than if having not done that. Outside of perhaps a business requiring a fleet of vehicles anyway, but if it was just me and not a fleet I'd still prefer an older vehicle that's simple and reliable with no unrepairable electronics to fail.\n 13 years is practically brand new hair on fire hedonistic luxury too. I could never justify the cost and recurring expense of a fancy new 13 year old vehicle, let alone repair and maintenance costs or downtime. My newest vehicle is 40 years old, my daily driver is a 55 year old motorcycle that gets 50+ MPG and just plain works whether it's below 0*, over 100*, raining, or whatever and has never left me stranded in 20 years." }, { "id": "t1_ol1gkxl", "author": "/u/xxxHAL9000xxx", "updated": "2026-05-10T18:26:44+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol1gkxl/", "content": "i’m smart. i have the privilege of not doing dumb stuff.\n i have impulse control. i have the privilege of not making bad decisions.\n however...you dumb people have the privilege of uttering nonsense and not feeling ashamed for it." }, { "id": "t1_ol1tnry", "author": "/u/No-Amount-6351", "updated": "2026-05-10T19:29:55+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol1tnry/", "content": "People treat you better if they perceive you have higher status; one of those status signals in money. Status and appearance is critical across cultures and other social/non-social animals. Think tropical birds, wolf packs, pecking orders, prey/predator dynamics\n You are already positioning yourself socially but critiquing their financial choices. You would have thought better of them if they made the “correct” decision. It seems clear they already know you have quite a bit of money, so you’ve already declared a superior financial status to them.\n Buying a new car can improve odds for: impressing their friends, success rates on dates, taken seriously at work, getting into a social club, being perceived as refined or dangerous taste." }, { "id": "t1_ol2l44o", "author": "/u/howardbagel", "updated": "2026-05-10T21:48:15+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol2l44o/", "content": "what a damaged soul" }, { "id": "t1_ol1v92u", "author": "/u/prlascko3", "updated": "2026-05-10T19:37:43+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol1v92u/", "content": "Guys driving a minivan has always sounded like an embarrassment ritual that men who want a family don’t deserve." }, { "id": "t1_ol1w941", "author": "/u/Visible_Structure483", "updated": "2026-05-10T19:42:36+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t9e699/we_have_the_privilege_of_driving_and_old_car/ol1w941/", "content": "wut?\n we don't even have kids, I just have hobbies that are easier to move around in a large enclosed vehicle and car camping is much nicer when you can stretch out and/or sit up without having to hunch down.\n if cargo vans didn't get such crappy MPG and weren't such a pain to drive I would go that way in a second." } ] }, { "source": "r/Fire top month", "id": "t3_1tcjt9h", "title": "I think most FIRE math is wrong", "author": "/u/Unfair_Mechanic_7305", "updated": "2026-05-14T01:45:07+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/", "content": "Meant for discussion not a fight.\n I think most people are overthinking things and actually missing out on RE because they are in their heads. I have been doing a study myself (small sample size of 50 people thus far) and find that the extreme majority of people suffer a huge decline in their late 70s and by early 80s it’s almost over. Even the healthiest men went south by late 70s. I see people waiting and missing out on the best years of their lives because they are afraid they don’t have enough when in reality they have more than enough. Not talking millions either. I see many posts here talking about watching their spending in their 50s and stay below 4% but I truly believe that is horrible advice for the majority of people. Take the trip, RE and if you are on this forum you probably have more than enough. Just my 2 cents meant for discussion.\n submitted by /u/Unfair_Mechanic_7305\n [link] [comments]", "contentHtml": "

Meant for discussion not a fight.

I think most people are overthinking things and actually missing out on RE because they are in their heads. I have been doing a study myself (small sample size of 50 people thus far) and find that the extreme majority of people suffer a huge decline in their late 70s and by early 80s it’s almost over. Even the healthiest men went south by late 70s. I see people waiting and missing out on the best years of their lives because they are afraid they don’t have enough when in reality they have more than enough. Not talking millions either. I see many posts here talking about watching their spending in their 50s and stay below 4% but I truly believe that is horrible advice for the majority of people. Take the trip, RE and if you are on this forum you probably have more than enough. Just my 2 cents meant for discussion.

submitted by /u/Unfair_Mechanic_7305
[link] [comments]", "comments": [ { "id": "t1_olokw5w", "author": "/u/Baconknobs", "updated": "2026-05-14T01:48:39+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/olokw5w/", "content": "I think everyone understands that, but everyone also doesn’t want to run out of money when they’re 80 and still live another 20 years" }, { "id": "t1_olol6a7", "author": "", "updated": "2026-05-14T01:50:16+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/olol6a7/", "content": "[deleted]" }, { "id": "t1_olopsb2", "author": "/u/KiKoB", "updated": "2026-05-14T02:16:14+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/olopsb2/", "content": "I have a great grandmother who is 108 🤯. She’s obviously not doing marathons but she’s active and sharp. That’s an anomaly but still" }, { "id": "t1_olouqbn", "author": "/u/PowerResponsibility", "updated": "2026-05-14T02:45:06+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/olouqbn/", "content": "If you live that long you shouldn't have to pay for anything at all." }, { "id": "t1_olp4azy", "author": "/u/stevenfrijoles", "updated": "2026-05-14T03:44:29+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/olp4azy/", "content": "Yeah but think of the time in the market!" }, { "id": "t1_olq6z7b", "author": "/u/Any_Translator6613", "updated": "2026-05-14T09:02:20+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/olq6z7b/", "content": "My spreadsheet gets pretty goofy in nominal dollars if I live to 110 and the market performs well." }, { "id": "t1_olqdgzk", "author": "/u/LabOwn9800", "updated": "2026-05-14T09:58:49+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/olqdgzk/", "content": "Yeah I’ve built my Montecarlo and I’m either at 0 or 500 million when I’m 100. It’s hard to see 50+ years in the future." }, { "id": "t1_olrd1sk", "author": "/u/butlerdm", "updated": "2026-05-14T13:38:24+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/olrd1sk/", "content": "Yeah most of us don’t have 2080 vision" }, { "id": "t1_olrlfb1", "author": "/u/LabOwn9800", "updated": "2026-05-14T14:19:06+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/olrlfb1/", "content": "Luckily I’ll most likely be dead. But if not I’ll probably be too old to care or do anything with excess money. And if I beat the odds and I’m an active 90+ year old I’ll be the most popular guy in the nursing home." }, { "id": "t1_olrrewi", "author": "/u/gtu2004", "updated": "2026-05-14T14:47:22+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/olrrewi/", "content": "All the golddiggers 10-20 years younger will be after your ass like a piece of meat. But is it really someone you'd want to spend the rest of your life with?" }, { "id": "t1_olt6du0", "author": "/u/Str-Engr0275", "updated": "2026-05-14T18:36:56+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/olt6du0/", "content": "lol I’d have 1.8 billion if I just left my money with no contributions until I was 110! 🤣" }, { "id": "t1_olp353m", "author": "/u/vipernick913", "updated": "2026-05-14T03:36:39+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/olp353m/", "content": "Seriously. 100% agreed" }, { "id": "t1_olpkksy", "author": "/u/Magic-Mushroomz", "updated": "2026-05-14T05:47:35+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/olpkksy/", "content": "The only reason I want to live that long is to make up shit as to how I did it. “Used to snort half a gram of sugar bugger on the daily kids” or something like that!" }, { "id": "t1_olrfs9a", "author": "/u/Stunning-Thanks-4226", "updated": "2026-05-14T13:51:52+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/olrfs9a/", "content": "Reach 100 and SSA gives you a $1million grand geezer award and a funny hat." }, { "id": "t1_olouw80", "author": "/u/temerairevm", "updated": "2026-05-14T02:46:01+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/olouw80/", "content": "With those genetics I don’t even know how I’d be planning." }, { "id": "t1_olp700v", "author": "/u/top-potatoad", "updated": "2026-05-14T04:02:53+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/olp700v/", "content": "I have those genetics but I’ve been sabotaging them with horrible life choices." }, { "id": "t1_olqpnol", "author": "/u/thegoldenfinn", "updated": "2026-05-14T11:28:01+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/olqpnol/", "content": "I have an Aunt still breathing at 103. Sharp as a tack too. Not so steady on her feet. She has round the clock care in her home. It’s expensive." }, { "id": "t1_olrlxa8", "author": "/u/danfirst", "updated": "2026-05-14T14:21:28+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/olrlxa8/", "content": "We looked at this for my mom, even non nursing level care 24/7 at home was about 325K a year, not including any of her other normal bills. Just to have a qualified professional there 24/7." }, { "id": "t1_olru36p", "author": "/u/David511us", "updated": "2026-05-14T14:59:46+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/olru36p/", "content": "My goal is to make it to 100, since very few people die over 100..." }, { "id": "t1_olv3swr", "author": "/u/mrmses", "updated": "2026-05-15T00:35:22+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/olv3swr/", "content": "I… wha?" }, { "id": "t1_olrcze1", "author": "/u/Kat9935", "updated": "2026-05-14T13:38:05+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/olrcze1/", "content": "Wow. My great aunt lived to 102 and at 95 was living at home and I remember she was like ok well off to visit the old people in the home as she worked as a volunteer at the nursing home which I thought was a bit ironic." }, { "id": "t1_olom55z", "author": "/u/PJM123456", "updated": "2026-05-14T01:55:46+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/olom55z/", "content": "my grandmother is 88 and sharp as a tack....and been ready for the reaper for past 5 years because her body had been failing on her and is in constant pain." }, { "id": "t1_olor9yf", "author": "/u/oracleofnonsense", "updated": "2026-05-14T02:24:52+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/olor9yf/", "content": "Get grandma some cbd gummys and a candy crush addiction." }, { "id": "t1_olp0ijz", "author": "/u/Whirlywynd", "updated": "2026-05-14T03:19:37+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/olp0ijz/", "content": "I’m hoping by the time I’m elderly the virtual reality gaming will be insanely good" }, { "id": "t1_olqx3lh", "author": "/u/maxdamage4", "updated": "2026-05-14T12:12:54+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/olqx3lh/", "content": "Right? Get me some turbo painkillers and hook me up to the virtual world." }, { "id": "t1_olotan4", "author": "/u/mth413", "updated": "2026-05-14T02:36:43+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/olotan4/", "content": "That sounds like my grandma. She just passed away last year. She was so so so cognitively there. Sad that she was fully aware that her body was shutting down." }, { "id": "t1_olotw3g", "author": "/u/Adept_Carpet", "updated": "2026-05-14T02:40:15+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/olotw3g/", "content": "Yeah my grandmother played Jeopardy just a few hours before passing away at 96." }, { "id": "t1_oloxfrl", "author": "/u/mmrocker13", "updated": "2026-05-14T03:01:03+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/oloxfrl/", "content": "My grandmothers were both in their 90s when they died, and I had one who was mentally sharp, but had a physical health issue, and the other was physically hale and hearty but had dementia/alzheimers. DOUBLE-EDGED SWORD :D" }, { "id": "t1_olonps8", "author": "/u/jtet93", "updated": "2026-05-14T02:04:39+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/olonps8/", "content": "That’s crazy! I’m 32 and your grandma lived almost a whole lifetime of mine after she turned 65 lol" }, { "id": "t1_olornbr", "author": "/u/snarkmeister99", "updated": "2026-05-14T02:27:05+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/olornbr/", "content": "My grandmother will be 95 next month. She’s definitely more forgetful now, but she’s still physically in great shape for her age and will likely keep trucking well into triple digits, especially if my mom can finally talk her into moving in with them. Grandma has home help that comes in several days per week but she lives alone in a two story house, so a fall could be fatal.\n All this to say that yes, living well into my 80s and beyond is a distinct possibility. 😬" }, { "id": "t1_olp1f32", "author": "/u/Tripl3Dee", "updated": "2026-05-14T03:25:24+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/olp1f32/", "content": "Mine just passed this week. Would've been 97 in August. I still remember her running around the house doing everything for everyone at 88. Refused to be put in a home and lived independently until the day that she died. Her mother also lived to see 95. So I have good genes on at least one side." }, { "id": "t1_olpfpas", "author": "/u/nasstia", "updated": "2026-05-14T05:08:03+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/olpfpas/", "content": "My grandma was one week away from turning 97 when she passed away. My mom, her youngest daughter, died just a year later at 67 after a very brief battle with brain cancer. She was perfectly healthy before the diagnosis. This messes with my head so much." }, { "id": "t1_olvn5h8", "author": "/u/Detail4", "updated": "2026-05-15T02:32:09+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/olvn5h8/", "content": "Same. Grandmother is 100 and my mother passed away at 71 a couple years ago." }, { "id": "t1_olotqac", "author": "/u/Efficient_Ant_4715", "updated": "2026-05-14T02:39:18+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/olotqac/", "content": "My grand parents all lost their minds in their 80s. I’m not holding my breathe" }, { "id": "t1_olopken", "author": "/u/SergeantPoopyWeiner", "updated": "2026-05-14T02:15:00+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/olopken/", "content": "If you are a super tall man, this ain't happening." }, { "id": "t1_olortfh", "author": "/u/greatwall23", "updated": "2026-05-14T02:28:02+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/olortfh/", "content": "Notice its everyone's grandma living to 90s.\n Men, take the trip lol tall men? Buy the car" }, { "id": "t1_olpcqbr", "author": "/u/junulee", "updated": "2026-05-14T04:44:58+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/olpcqbr/", "content": "My uncle is 92 still mentally sharp and while slowing down still travels frequently. My father, his younger brother, is 80 and hasn’t been able to travel since his late 60s. Same genes, similar lifestyles, different outcomes." }, { "id": "t1_olphpf1", "author": "/u/Bleedinggums99", "updated": "2026-05-14T05:24:00+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/olphpf1/", "content": "Same had 2 grandmothers go into their 90s, had a union pension retirement plus their own savings, the other ran out of money and was in a Medicare paid for nursing home facility and I can tell you know, no way in hell I am ending up there. I will gladly work long than needed and die with money left over to not having to be in a facility like that." }, { "id": "t1_om182ty", "author": "/u/gizmole", "updated": "2026-05-15T22:35:23+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/om182ty/", "content": "I hope voluntary euthanasia will be available by the time I get that bad. Or I will be finding the nearest chair and a rope." }, { "id": "t1_omhn8q2", "author": "/u/kstorm88", "updated": "2026-05-18T14:28:28+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/omhn8q2/", "content": "3 of my grandparents made it past 96. Parents are both well and active in their 70's. I know it's anecdotal, but my neighbor was still driving and golfing every day at 100. Then got sick and died within a few months. Not a bad life. I just don't want to be in a nursing home dropling for a decade" }, { "id": "t1_oloqdz2", "author": "/u/Platos-ghosts", "updated": "2026-05-14T02:19:42+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/oloqdz2/", "content": "Take social security at 70 to get your max benefit, that should cover the very old years. People over 80 mostly stay home, enjoy simple things and don’t spend." }, { "id": "t1_olrrjh4", "author": "/u/queue517", "updated": "2026-05-14T14:47:57+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/olrrjh4/", "content": "Or they require extremely expensive nursing care." }, { "id": "t1_olzpin4", "author": "/u/ImaginaryHospital306", "updated": "2026-05-15T18:00:30+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/olzpin4/", "content": "When you get to that point you can sell off your assets and spend down until you qualify for Medicaid. It’s not like you need spending money at that point. There’s some complex estate planning that should be done, but you won’t be left for dead when you run out of money." }, { "id": "t1_om4lfb1", "author": "/u/andreasvolo", "updated": "2026-05-16T13:18:47+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/om4lfb1/", "content": "No, it'll be worse than that. Do you know how bad the care is that you get on medicaid? Even if you manage to survive that way, you'll be miserable." }, { "id": "t1_omh1e7c", "author": "/u/DomiNate89", "updated": "2026-05-18T12:34:21+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/omh1e7c/", "content": "If it’s that bad I might just call it. Not sure if it’s worth sacrificing healthy years for miserable elderly years" }, { "id": "t1_olon2y5", "author": "/u/That-SoCal-Guy", "updated": "2026-05-14T02:01:01+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/olon2y5/", "content": "Yup. It’s one thing if you die early but what if you do live to 100 or beyond. My parents are both in their 90s now and in relative good shape. They outlive their parents by decades so it’s possible for me to outlive them by even 20 years I’d be in my 110s (my friend’s parents are both over 100) and to run out of money before then is horrible.\n Then again if you’re only taking 2% and being overly cautious about spending money or living a good life then you’re completely missing the point. Yes. The truth is somewhere in the middle." }, { "id": "t1_olop3jy", "author": "/u/Acceptable_Travel_20", "updated": "2026-05-14T02:12:18+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/olop3jy/", "content": "I’m thinking 170 or 180 myself." }, { "id": "t1_olorjni", "author": "/u/Guilty-Farmer6098", "updated": "2026-05-14T02:26:28+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/olorjni/", "content": "I mean with modern science and a high level income, it’s not crazy to think we can’t live that long" }, { "id": "t1_olotnhe", "author": "/u/Acceptable_Travel_20", "updated": "2026-05-14T02:38:51+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/olotnhe/", "content": "If Ricky Bobby says 245, 170 to 180 is appropriate for us plebs." }, { "id": "t1_olotzry", "author": "/u/Guilty-Farmer6098", "updated": "2026-05-14T02:40:52+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/olotzry/", "content": "You ain’t first, you’re last!" }, { "id": "t1_olp91ye", "author": "/u/That-SoCal-Guy", "updated": "2026-05-14T04:17:33+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/olp91ye/", "content": "David Attenborough just reached 100. Dick Van Dyke did too. And Mel Brooks is next. (Jimmy Carter also got to 100 even though he was gravely ill). Who knows? People are living longer and longer, much longer than in 20th Century. Not saying it’s highly likely, but it’s likely." }, { "id": "t1_olop761", "author": "/u/geomaster", "updated": "2026-05-14T02:12:53+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/olop761/", "content": "that's not really how life expectancy works" }, { "id": "t1_olsyhm8", "author": "/u/That-SoCal-Guy", "updated": "2026-05-14T18:00:40+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/olsyhm8/", "content": "You are not a statistic. Use your own numbers including your family history. Life expectancy in the US is currently at 78, and most of my relatives live well beyond that, so I'd be silly to use that "average" number because I am not the other 340 million people! No one should use "average" in all of their projections. "Average" has no real meaning." }, { "id": "t1_omzz821", "author": "/u/Ok_Prune_1731", "updated": "2026-05-21T04:41:50+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/omzz821/", "content": "Yes your own health and family is the best indicator. If your great great, uncles/aunts, grandparents ect all lives to 85+. Probably a good idea to base your retirement off that assumption especially if your currently young.\n Assuming society doesn't collapse medical technology will get better and better. So if your great grandma lived to 90 good chance doctors can keep you alive 40 years from now." }, { "id": "t1_olrus3q", "author": "/u/Medaphysical", "updated": "2026-05-14T15:02:59+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/olrus3q/", "content": "I’d be in my 110s\n No one should be making financial planning decisions based on the possibility that they live that long. Currrently, 1 in 5 million people make it to 110." }, { "id": "t1_olswf0k", "author": "/u/That-SoCal-Guy", "updated": "2026-05-14T17:51:35+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/olswf0k/", "content": "Did I say that? I NEVER said use 100 in your calculations. NEVER.\n I am just saying that using 76 (or whatever the average life expectancy in the US) is also a fallacy. Everyone is different. Look at your family history, etc. My family tends to live long (my parents and 4 of my uncles and aunts are still alive in their 90s). All my strategy uses 90yo and I think it's fair.\n Using the "average" life expectancy is like using the "average" rate of returns or average savings in your strategy. It's "average" for a reason. Median is better, but that's still statistics. It's like saying average American household income is $65K and you know it's not true for YOU - you're making $250K! The number one killer in America in heart disease but you know your cardiovascular health is top notch.... YOU need to use your own numbers, man. So if your parents and uncles and aunts and grandparents all live to 100, why would you assume that you will die at age 76? But if all your relatives die in their late 70s, don't expect yourself to live to 100 unless you're adopted or you're super healthy or have some kind of anti-aging secrets.\n The point is if you only model your simulations to age 80, that's all great but what if you live to 95 -- would you be out of money before then? It would really suck if you run out of money when you happen to live to 85 and you're still relatively healthy. Better be safe than sorry. You may die early too, but your strategy shouldn't bank on that either (or at least make sure your family will be okay if you do die early)." }, { "id": "t1_oloqua7", "author": "", "updated": "2026-05-14T02:22:19+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/oloqua7/", "content": "[deleted]" }, { "id": "t1_olqbot8", "author": "/u/Chicken_Fried_Snails", "updated": "2026-05-14T09:44:06+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/olqbot8/", "content": "Now here's an answer that makes sense from both a human and emotional perspective.\n The insurance annuity provider will give you a good rate too, cause you'll likely be dead by the time they have to start paying." }, { "id": "t1_olszbqs", "author": "/u/That-SoCal-Guy", "updated": "2026-05-14T18:04:27+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/olszbqs/", "content": "Again everyone's situation is different. If you plan it right you may not need annuity. If you don't plan at all, you probably don't have an annuity policy to begin with. But if you feel that your numbers aren't quite there, annuity can help when you're older. So it all depends on YOUR specific situations. No one else should tell you what to do since they are NOT you.\n A friend of mine, his father was 90 when he was persuaded by an insurance company to open an annuity, and my friend was so mad because they took advantage of an old man who couldn't make decisions for himself anymore. And financially his father did NOT need an annuity - he was set until forever and still leaving a legacy. Of course, if they canceled the annuity there would be a hefty fine (I think it was about $8000). He canceled it anyway because of principles. His dad died at 93. The annuity was totally unnecessary." }, { "id": "t1_olontmc", "author": "/u/Elrohwen", "updated": "2026-05-14T02:05:15+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/olontmc/", "content": "100%. Even if quality of life declines and you’re not taking amazing trips you may live another 20 years and need expensive care. Nobody wants to run out of money" }, { "id": "t1_olousfz", "author": "/u/ChristBKK", "updated": "2026-05-14T02:45:26+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/olousfz/", "content": "Controversial opinion, but it may be better to have 90 great years than 100 years. Meaning if I am old I don't even know if I want to live another 10 years if my body is not in a great condition.\n Real story from this year a relative died at 90 years and she was married to her husband. The husband died 4 weeks later declining all medical help as he didn't want to be alone without his wife. He died on something he didn't had to die from but didn't want to stay in hospital and so on.\n All I am saying there might come a time where you say 90 years is enough." }, { "id": "t1_olp1yyi", "author": "", "updated": "2026-05-14T03:28:55+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/olp1yyi/", "content": "[deleted]" }, { "id": "t1_olp89d7", "author": "/u/Comfortable_Two6272", "updated": "2026-05-14T04:11:48+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/olp89d7/", "content": "Thinking it and actually taking action about it are 2 very different things and depending the country (and state) might have limited legal options." }, { "id": "t1_olp9903", "author": "/u/ChristBKK", "updated": "2026-05-14T04:18:58+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/olp9903/", "content": "I live in Asia maybe here it's a bit different. Getting used to people that want to die at home with their family lately. It's also a culture thing a bit depending on the country you live in.\n I just think FIRE towards the 90 years goal is fine as a base case. For me at least" }, { "id": "t1_olpd2wu", "author": "/u/alpacaMyToothbrush", "updated": "2026-05-14T04:47:38+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/olpd2wu/", "content": "What are they gonna do, arrest you?" }, { "id": "t1_olqq0vr", "author": "/u/Comfortable_Two6272", "updated": "2026-05-14T11:30:22+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/olqq0vr/", "content": "No - the people who help you 🥲" }, { "id": "t1_olrfvpq", "author": "/u/alpacaMyToothbrush", "updated": "2026-05-14T13:52:20+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/olrfvpq/", "content": "Good luck finding the nice young man that sold me enough fent to kill an elephant. Oops, mixed up my prescriptions, silly me" }, { "id": "t1_ols8m4h", "author": "/u/Big_Pizza_6229", "updated": "2026-05-14T16:05:11+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/ols8m4h/", "content": "Dignitas in Switzerland is an option open to anyone, just costs 10k+." }, { "id": "t1_olr4thq", "author": "/u/Onehundredpercentbea", "updated": "2026-05-14T12:56:00+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/olr4thq/", "content": "People always say this and rarely do it. The husband in your story was lucky there was an easy way to die simply by refusing medical care, most people would have to actively plan a way to die, and people simply don't have the wherewithall to do that." }, { "id": "t1_olsuo6a", "author": "/u/nickyskater", "updated": "2026-05-14T17:43:58+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/olsuo6a/", "content": "My grandma (passed at 96) spent the last few years of her life saying she was "ready to go". But modern care kept her alive until every day was painful. The last 3 months were brutal." }, { "id": "t1_olsjzkl", "author": "/u/Drawer-Vegetable", "updated": "2026-05-14T16:56:15+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/olsjzkl/", "content": "100% agree. The end goal is the longest amount of life, but a life well lived. If I make it past 80, I call that a huge win." }, { "id": "t1_olumzmh", "author": "/u/ChristBKK", "updated": "2026-05-14T22:57:44+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/olumzmh/", "content": "yeah this is the right attitude imo" }, { "id": "t1_olp8y21", "author": "/u/bfolster16", "updated": "2026-05-14T04:16:46+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/olp8y21/", "content": "Thats the whole point of this post though. What kind of a life are you living at 80-100?\n The most you have to look forward to is bingo night at the home. Or the odd relative that visits you.\n Live your life, retirement specifically 50-75 is the golden years. Take that trip. Spend that money.\n After 75 life slows down. The boujie retirement home won't make up for the trips you wished you would've went on with your late spouse." }, { "id": "t1_olrqej4", "author": "/u/Bruceshadow", "updated": "2026-05-14T14:42:39+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/olrqej4/", "content": "you seem to be implying costs will be less in the 80+ years, but they may not be. Sure you aren't going out as much, but that peanuts compared to potential medical costs." }, { "id": "t1_olsaecw", "author": "/u/bfolster16", "updated": "2026-05-14T16:13:12+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/olsaecw/", "content": "But who cares. What are you prolonging? more bingo nights? You've had your run.\n I understand medical costs go up. I'm asking what meaningful value you're gaining by extending your life at that point." }, { "id": "t1_olsgg0z", "author": "/u/Bruceshadow", "updated": "2026-05-14T16:40:20+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/olsgg0z/", "content": "are you suggesting people prepare to FIRE for a certain age them commit suicide if they reach it?" }, { "id": "t1_olsnffe", "author": "/u/bfolster16", "updated": "2026-05-14T17:11:37+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/olsnffe/", "content": "Financial suicide sure. Die with zero by 90. If you make it past that age there's SS." }, { "id": "t1_olvgqsi", "author": "/u/Mysterious9876", "updated": "2026-05-15T01:53:10+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/olvgqsi/", "content": "Exactly, I say this to people allllll the time. Like fantastic, I lived an extra 10 years but in a diaper , sleeping all day and doing nothing vs putting that money into enjoying the years I can actually walk, talk, travel and enjoy" }, { "id": "t1_olt5taf", "author": "/u/andstuff233", "updated": "2026-05-14T18:34:19+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/olt5taf/", "content": "I agree with this point. And, as we age, the door/window closes on some things. Meaning, you can never do it during this lifetime if you miss that window.\n Examples:\n - Building my own cabin DIY - no longer have the strength - I think - to carry those big beams, etc. Maybe could do it at much slower pace, but not sure.\n - Climbing Kilamanjaro - could do the more casual hike/walk I think, but not any of the aggressive parts any longer.\n - Euro trip via train and staying in hostels. Physically I could do it, just no longer have a desire to stay in that type of enviro at this stage in life. That is an early 20s thing to do.\n As we get closer to 75, other options could be closed off as well\n - Walk-heavy travel to foreign cities.\n - Swimming/surfing in ocean\n - and many others, depending on health/physicality of the individual." }, { "id": "t1_olr0yhl", "author": "/u/Unfair_Mechanic_7305", "updated": "2026-05-14T12:34:49+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/olr0yhl/", "content": "Exactly my point. Well said." }, { "id": "t1_olrh6pu", "author": "/u/Midnight_Rain1213", "updated": "2026-05-14T13:58:39+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/olrh6pu/", "content": "My partner is 55 and I keep trying to convince him that he doesn't need to work until 65, and he deserves to enjoy being young and retired. I'm fine to work a few extra years (I'm in my early 40s) so we can retire at the same time.\n He's stubborn and insists that he likes his job but if you don't have to work, why would you?" }, { "id": "t1_olory4e", "author": "/u/Major-1970", "updated": "2026-05-14T02:28:48+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/olory4e/", "content": "Or worse yet be like my father in memory care for 20+ years. Healthy as can be at 90, but with dementia and anxiety he "died" 2 decades ago." }, { "id": "t1_olsl2ln", "author": "/u/Steve_didit", "updated": "2026-05-14T17:01:02+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/olsl2ln/", "content": "Interestingly dementia rates seem to be dropping rapidly. They have dropped 67% in the last 40 years and are continuing to decline. So hopefully it will be less of an issue for the people in this sub than it has in the past." }, { "id": "t1_olp8al3", "author": "/u/Comfortable_Two6272", "updated": "2026-05-14T04:12:02+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/olp8al3/", "content": "My biggest fear" }, { "id": "t1_olou7u1", "author": "/u/Naive-Apple-1012", "updated": "2026-05-14T02:42:12+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/olou7u1/", "content": "If you do not mind sharing, how does he pay for memory care for that long? Over 20 years must cost a lot." }, { "id": "t1_olp4i5k", "author": "/u/Major-1970", "updated": "2026-05-14T03:45:50+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/olp4i5k/", "content": "It has been 6-10k per month. He was lucky to have had a great job with one company for his whole career and retired in the early 90's with a $5k / month pension. Even with his investments inflation has hurt. We have had to move to cheaper care facilities in cheaper locations further from family as his money has dwindled.\n I figure he has spent close to $1.7 million on care facilities that he doesn't remember, or do much but sit and sleep." }, { "id": "t1_olpfgnp", "author": "/u/Naive-Apple-1012", "updated": "2026-05-14T05:06:09+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/olpfgnp/", "content": "Thank you for sharing. You both have all my sympathy.\n This is why I strongly believe I will need $1M for long term care." }, { "id": "t1_olqsuk6", "author": "/u/James_Fortis", "updated": "2026-05-14T11:47:58+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/olqsuk6/", "content": "You all just convinced me to retire even earlier. I don’t want to work an extra 7-10 years of my healthy life in the off-chance I’ll afford a nicer sitting chair when I’m demented at 90." }, { "id": "t1_oltpayb", "author": "/u/Singularity-42", "updated": "2026-05-14T20:05:45+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/oltpayb/", "content": "Yep, this. People keep working extra decade so they can afford a $12k/month nursing home when they are demented (or dead) anyways? What's the point?\n I thought Retire Early is the point. Also, you could probably cut your cost by 80% by living in nursing home outside of US if that's the problem." }, { "id": "t1_olpc293", "author": "/u/alpacaMyToothbrush", "updated": "2026-05-14T04:39:54+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/olpc293/", "content": "Serious question, did he know he was slippin before it got bad? I intend to take a 'graceful exit' before it comes time for me to go to a nursing home, but I imagine timing it is hard. You need to be sharp enough to still make such arrangements, but bad enough off you have a good idea there aren't many good days ahead of you." }, { "id": "t1_olqxuwm", "author": "/u/Major-1970", "updated": "2026-05-14T12:17:18+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/olqxuwm/", "content": "He had sudden onset dementia. So he was fine, traveled extensively, (he was healthy never smoked, drank did drugs, even avoided caffeine, he hiked, did multi state bike trips etc) and within a couple of months was unable to function, and was in a lock down memory unit. After about a year he got good enough to go home with a family member, but it became quickly apparent that he had suffered a significant personality change (or his coping mechanisms were gone), and he needed more care than we could provide, so he went to a nice progressive care assisted living campus. It took 3 years before he spoke to anyone... and even now he rarely communicates more than a few words." }, { "id": "t1_ols9q8g", "author": "/u/sbgshadow", "updated": "2026-05-14T16:10:13+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/ols9q8g/", "content": "This is terrifying. I'm sure you've come to terms with it by now, but I'm so sorry you've had to deal with that :(" }, { "id": "t1_olqybad", "author": "/u/Adventurous-You-8346", "updated": "2026-05-14T12:19:55+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/olqybad/", "content": "My mother is in the same situation - dementia for 20 years. She had no idea that she was having issues. She just blamed the people around her for everything that was not working well in her life. For example, she was getting mad at me for never calling her. When I mentioned that I had talked to her the day before, she just reiterated that I was never calling her. She didn't understand that she just couldn't remember." }, { "id": "t1_olpy4wa", "author": "/u/Unique_Pen_5191", "updated": "2026-05-14T07:43:25+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/olpy4wa/", "content": "Yup. I realize that most posters here will be based in the US so this take makes a lot of sense. As someone who lives in Norway though it is unfathomable to save like crazy just to survive old age - I save to achieve a degree of freedom as early as possible but if it all goes to shit I know that the modest pension I'll receive will be enough to make it." }, { "id": "t1_olotmg7", "author": "/u/HodlStacker", "updated": "2026-05-14T02:38:41+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/olotmg7/", "content": "Yeah, my family has this fun little gamble where they die in their 50s or 85+, sometimes even over 100. So I either would squirrel away everything to retire as soon as possible and run out in my 70s, build a fortune that will last me to 150, just in case, or try and be sensible, enjoy life where I can while also building a path to 95." }, { "id": "t1_olv1ep4", "author": "/u/CrazydaveVR", "updated": "2026-05-15T00:21:01+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/olv1ep4/", "content": "Why would you run out of money in your 70s, are you planning to withdraw 10% per year or what? Even with my projections assuming a significantly underperforming market throughout my retirement I’m still forecasted to be accumulating wealth when I die at 92 based on a modest lifestyle (men in my family tend to live into early 80s). I think if you’re assuming a dwindling portfolio in retirement down to zero you’re probably not planning properly to begin with…odds are my wife will die with more money than I’ll ever see (barring giving it away to family and charity).\n Yes, many unexpected things may come up but also it’s highly unlikely we’ll see 35+ years of sustained poor market performance so as long as I’m smart I don’t see why I can’t navigate ups and downs. I also plan to delay social security to 70 and I’m using a very conservative number in case it gets a big cut at some point. I suppose anything is possible but then again it’s possible I die a year after I retire so what can you do?\n I tend to agree with OP that my early retirement years will be my best years and once I lose mobility, hearing and vision and mental acuity I probably won’t be spending on much aside from keeping myself alive and doubt the quality of my food or size of my assisted living room will matter much. Maybe I’m fooling myself but even so would gladly trade good years on the front end for bad years on the back end when I can’t do anything anyway…although it’s statistically more likely I’ll die young enough or my wealth will hold out for it not to matter. Plus, plenty of people get by on SS alone, maybe not a great life but as a 90-95yo unhealthy male I don’t expect that anyway.\n Anyway, just my perspective…everyone will make their own choices and live with the outcome be it good or bad or somewhere in between." }, { "id": "t1_olornht", "author": "/u/One-Proof-9506", "updated": "2026-05-14T02:27:06+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/olornht/", "content": "I know plenty of people that lived into their early 90s. Imagine running out of money when you are most vulnerable" }, { "id": "t1_olr4h5z", "author": "/u/fleur-tardive", "updated": "2026-05-14T12:54:11+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/olr4h5z/", "content": "I know a few people who made that far and they spend almost nothing, a 15 minute walk for a coffee and some light gardening, maybe a phone call and a movie is a big day - plus the government pays for everything at that point if needs be" }, { "id": "t1_olvhr0u", "author": "/u/Mysterious9876", "updated": "2026-05-15T01:59:11+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/olvhr0u/", "content": "Actually I’m fine dying at that point if I enjoyed my money earlier. What a waste to prolong many years when I can’t even wipe my own ass" }, { "id": "t1_olp8f0r", "author": "/u/Mysterious_Peak4073", "updated": "2026-05-14T04:12:56+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/olp8f0r/", "content": "At that point, id be ok if I die off, by whatever means" }, { "id": "t1_olonbpj", "author": "/u/Ornery-Worldliness96", "updated": "2026-05-14T02:02:25+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/olonbpj/", "content": "I had a great grandmother who was very close to 100. She was two months away from her birthday when she died." }, { "id": "t1_oloqeem", "author": "/u/lurkerjazzer", "updated": "2026-05-14T02:19:46+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/oloqeem/", "content": "My Dad died 20 years before his parents who died in their 80s. Now I have to die at 42." }, { "id": "t1_olotzjf", "author": "/u/CetiAlpha4", "updated": "2026-05-14T02:40:49+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/olotzjf/", "content": "Read the social security actuarial tables. Basically you have about a 16% chance of making it to 90 if you're a man, more like 1% to 100 so even the odds of hitting 100 are pretty low, for women, not much better at a little over 2%. Being 70 isn't that hard though, about 70% and 80 years old is more like a 47% chance. It's just a rapid decline in the odds to go from 80-90." }, { "id": "t1_olp8ff5", "author": "/u/Comfortable_Two6272", "updated": "2026-05-14T04:13:01+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/olp8ff5/", "content": "Check though once you reach 65 and 70" }, { "id": "t1_olqvk6v", "author": "/u/Soggy-Attempt", "updated": "2026-05-14T12:03:58+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/olqvk6v/", "content": "Everyone thinks they are going to live till 90, but the average person dies at 80" }, { "id": "t1_olqzzsn", "author": "/u/bebe_bird", "updated": "2026-05-14T12:29:23+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/olqzzsn/", "content": "I have a grandmother who is turning 95 this summer. I'm pretty sure she lives on social security, but, she also stays in her own home and her daughter lives in with her - which is probably the only way she's managed to live at home still.\n I guess this is a combination of - you can live to 95 with a very small amount of money if you have to - but she's also certainly not enjoying it, and I feel like she's been "waiting to die" for at least the past 5 years (her husband passed 10+ years ago). But also, it is possible to live that old and such a roll of the dice!" }, { "id": "t1_olrkbmr", "author": "/u/Soggy-Attempt", "updated": "2026-05-14T14:13:49+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/olrkbmr/", "content": "Everyone thinks they are going to live till 90, but the average person dies at 80." }, { "id": "t1_olrllnz", "author": "/u/the_fresh_cucumber", "updated": "2026-05-14T14:19:56+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/olrllnz/", "content": "You still have state support to fall back on at that age. SS and MA are your final baseline when all else fails.\n Honestly I'd rather run out of money when I'm 90 than when I'm 20. Don't miss the prime years.\n At 90 you just need a TV and a couch. And don't delude yourself into thinking that millions of dollars in medical treatment will make much difference at that point except for letting your enjoy pain and fatigue a few more years" }, { "id": "t1_olvi6jp", "author": "/u/Mysterious9876", "updated": "2026-05-15T02:01:46+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/olvi6jp/", "content": "Exactly! This is 100% on point and what I tell people all the time" }, { "id": "t1_oltbdea", "author": "/u/srqfla", "updated": "2026-05-14T18:59:59+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/oltbdea/", "content": "Statistically you're more likely to die in your '80s than you are to run out of money. This is if you invest well." }, { "id": "t1_olthfb6", "author": "/u/watch-nerd", "updated": "2026-05-14T19:28:31+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/olthfb6/", "content": "Delay Social Security to 70 to maximize longevity insurance." }, { "id": "t1_olti4uy", "author": "/u/BeatDense9049", "updated": "2026-05-14T19:31:52+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/olti4uy/", "content": "Kinda of pointless…. Dumb. At 80 to be honest for most life is like being a toddler again. You don’t even know what is happening let alone enjoying it… sure there are about 1% that are “sharp as a tack and mobile” but the other 99% either died or are 10meds and just lay in the couch" }, { "id": "t1_oltk0rg", "author": "/u/kabekew", "updated": "2026-05-14T19:40:54+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/oltk0rg/", "content": "Yea my great aunt lived to 103 and her assisted living cost $100K a year she never would have been able to afford if she ran out at 80." }, { "id": "t1_oltuk0b", "author": "/u/livsjollyranchers", "updated": "2026-05-14T20:30:36+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/oltuk0b/", "content": "Depends on your genes. Hardly anyone in recent generations in my family goes much past 80. Many die in their 60s or early 70s. We also need to be realistic." }, { "id": "t1_olua6rp", "author": "/u/Psiwolf", "updated": "2026-05-14T21:47:34+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/olua6rp/", "content": "Exactly. My grandfather passed away when my grandmother was about 75 years old. We thought she would follow him soon, because of how tired and unwell she looked. After my grandpa passed, she started becoming more and more healthy. Eventually she passed away 2 years ago at the age of 103." }, { "id": "t1_olondf9", "author": "/u/DigmonsDrill", "updated": "2026-05-14T02:02:41+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/olondf9/", "content": "Delay SS as long as possible." }, { "id": "t1_olqdhkd", "author": "/u/GonnaGetBumpy", "updated": "2026-05-14T09:58:56+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/olqdhkd/", "content": "My grandparents went into their 90s, but the last several years were low quality and brutal. My parents currently are in their low 80s and starting to have a rougher go of it but will probably make 90+. I am diabetic and was pretty overweight for a while, but probably healthy enough to reach that kind of age.\n And my wife is probably going to live to 100." }, { "id": "t1_olqybm3", "author": "/u/pokemon2jk", "updated": "2026-05-14T12:19:58+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/olqybm3/", "content": "I guess you guys have good genes never knew someone past 90" }, { "id": "t1_olrrtqs", "author": "/u/heytheredelilah291", "updated": "2026-05-14T14:49:16+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/olrrtqs/", "content": "For the vast majority of us yes, but we all know some 91 yo that still goes on safaris and all think it will be us." }, { "id": "t1_om1az4y", "author": "/u/choyMj", "updated": "2026-05-15T22:52:14+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/om1az4y/", "content": "I don't think I'll be doing the same things at 80 that I can do at 55. Probably plan to spend a bit more while younger, then spend less as the natural course of things start limiting your abilities." }, { "id": "t1_om3psnb", "author": "/u/sandee_eggo", "updated": "2026-05-16T09:28:30+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/om3psnb/", "content": "And they want to bequeath." }, { "id": "t1_om5stwc", "author": "/u/Excellent_Most8496", "updated": "2026-05-16T17:02:24+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/om5stwc/", "content": "This. For me, I'll be 80 in about 45 years. I'm less concerned about my own personal longevity and more concerned about whether being retired in year 2070 will look ANYTHING like it does today, which I rather doubt. Yet, I still have to be prepared, as best I can be, for it to be pretty much the same, except the part where I live until 2100 or beyond 🤷 Can't bank on dying in 2070, or ever, really." }, { "id": "t1_omeh01u", "author": "/u/CuticleSnoodlebear", "updated": "2026-05-18T00:51:02+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/omeh01u/", "content": "Heroin is cheap" }, { "id": "t1_omkda9j", "author": "/u/nopenope12345678910", "updated": "2026-05-18T22:26:49+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/omkda9j/", "content": "Most people also want to leave their children with a better life than they had which shifts the goal from accruing enough wealth to last until you die, to acquiring enough wealth to be able to live off the interest without having to dip into the base assets value." }, { "id": "t1_omzyk5f", "author": "/u/Ok_Prune_1731", "updated": "2026-05-21T04:36:57+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/omzyk5f/", "content": "[ Removed by Reddit ]" }, { "id": "t1_olol9z2", "author": "/u/Specific-Rich5196", "updated": "2026-05-14T01:50:50+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/olol9z2/", "content": "There are many people that decline in late 70s but live into their 90s. It is very costly to be cared for when you are elderly if you don't have family that are willing to do it." }, { "id": "t1_ololyw0", "author": "/u/ThatKaleidoscope8736", "updated": "2026-05-14T01:54:47+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/ololyw0/", "content": "It's costly even IF you have family that are willing to care for you." }, { "id": "t1_olr7x4u", "author": "/u/quent12dg", "updated": "2026-05-14T13:12:33+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/olr7x4u/", "content": "I think people really don't want to wipe the butts of their parents 2 or 3 times a day and change their diapers, especially if they are worth a substantial sum of money and can afford services." }, { "id": "t1_olrqxxe", "author": "/u/ThatKaleidoscope8736", "updated": "2026-05-14T14:45:11+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/olrqxxe/", "content": "I don't want to wipe my parent's asses either. Paying for home health care or care in a facility will wipe everything your parents have ever worked and saved for out." }, { "id": "t1_olulg9k", "author": "/u/flying_carabao", "updated": "2026-05-14T22:49:03+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/olulg9k/", "content": "As much as I love my parents, I too share the same sentiment of wiping their butts. I'd rather just hire someone for that. And on the flip side, as a parent, I don't want my kids wiping my ass also, ideally they'll generally be no where near my butt at any point in time.\n Nothing against people that are ok with it, just not for me." }, { "id": "t1_olxhuqh", "author": "/u/One-Proof-9506", "updated": "2026-05-15T11:23:59+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/olxhuqh/", "content": "I wiped my kids butts…so why can’t they return the favor one day ? 😂" }, { "id": "t1_olrrrd9", "author": "/u/quent12dg", "updated": "2026-05-14T14:48:58+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/olrrrd9/", "content": "Not if they utilize a proper estate attorney and understand look-back laws and the like. If you're worth millions and you need your kids to wipe your ass because some facility is going to take everything, you didn't do it right." }, { "id": "t1_olsxwgb", "author": "/u/bunnyherders", "updated": "2026-05-14T17:58:02+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/olsxwgb/", "content": "Wiping and changing is probably required 5-8 times a day." }, { "id": "t1_oltbnbl", "author": "/u/quent12dg", "updated": "2026-05-14T19:01:17+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/oltbnbl/", "content": "Like I am pretty hardcore FIRE and very frugal but there are just some things that I can accept that it's okay money is spent on." }, { "id": "t1_omh8msc", "author": "/u/nate8088", "updated": "2026-05-18T13:14:34+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/omh8msc/", "content": "Not only that, the parents don't want the kids wiping their asses either. It's uncomfortable for everyone, and it's better to hire a professional for that sort of stuff so you can enjoy spending time together doing nicer things." }, { "id": "t1_olrlu8t", "author": "/u/Redwolfdc", "updated": "2026-05-14T14:21:04+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/olrlu8t/", "content": "Yeah people don’t get it. Sure family can help but how many adults have the ability or time to be full time hospice nurses. They don’t usually." }, { "id": "t1_olr9rzk", "author": "/u/Playful_JungleWizard", "updated": "2026-05-14T13:21:56+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/olr9rzk/", "content": "I'm just going to have the robots take care of me. One way, or another..." }, { "id": "t1_olv1pg2", "author": "/u/CrazydaveVR", "updated": "2026-05-15T00:22:45+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/olv1pg2/", "content": "Elon has assured me everything will be just peachy" }, { "id": "t1_olom3du", "author": "/u/Lou_Peachum_2", "updated": "2026-05-14T01:55:29+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/olom3du/", "content": "Yep.. my grandma got into a pretty rough car accident several years ago. Insurance allocated a 6 figure settlement for injuries, etc\n She is in her 90s, requires home care giver, cause she cannot stand longer than 10 minutes without a walker and needs assistance with ADLs.\n In the last 2 years, the settlement is essentially run out. It’s costing 3800-5000 a month for home health care" }, { "id": "t1_oloqdr3", "author": "/u/StockCasinoMember", "updated": "2026-05-14T02:19:40+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/oloqdr3/", "content": "I don’t know about other countries, but most roads in the US lead to a home.\n Both grandmas ended up in one. Grandpas never made it.\n I have several other family members that are in a home already." }, { "id": "t1_olosfkq", "author": "/u/Lou_Peachum_2", "updated": "2026-05-14T02:31:40+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/olosfkq/", "content": "Yep... we're planning for it next month" }, { "id": "t1_olp045t", "author": "/u/Tasty-Property-434", "updated": "2026-05-14T03:17:08+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/olp045t/", "content": "My step mom is 78 and cannot stand for 5 minutes. Sitting in a chair is rough for her. She looks like she melts into the couch when she's sitting on one. She's not even that fat. Maybe 160. Just zero physical activity for 30 years." }, { "id": "t1_olr01s9", "author": "/u/wilbertthewalrus", "updated": "2026-05-14T12:29:41+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/olr01s9/", "content": "Its why anyone retiring early should consider moving somewhere walkable" }, { "id": "t1_olp9h4o", "author": "/u/Colorful_Monk_3467", "updated": "2026-05-14T04:20:38+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/olp9h4o/", "content": "That's pretty cheap for home health care. Is that just 8 hrs per day?" }, { "id": "t1_olpce90", "author": "/u/hyroprotagonyst", "updated": "2026-05-14T04:42:25+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/olpce90/", "content": "Lol yea I read it as 50k at first and I was like "dang but maybe fair for 24 hr help"" }, { "id": "t1_oloy79j", "author": "/u/Senior-Deer-3249", "updated": "2026-05-14T03:05:45+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/oloy79j/", "content": "Not a single grandparent on either side of our family died before 89. In our family trees, most early deaths are from accidents and alcoholism, most lived into their 90s. We're not being conservative planning ahead haha" }, { "id": "t1_olpam5f", "author": "/u/remuliini", "updated": "2026-05-14T04:29:05+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/olpam5f/", "content": "We have it the other way around. My dad died at 62, my mom at 76, and my grandparents at 61, 76, 78, and 90. Out of 18 great and great-great-grandparents, it is more common to die at 60 or under (6) than to make it to 80 (4). Just one out of 24 made it to 90 in four generations: my grandma.\n I don't need to be too conservative, even if the math doesn't make too much difference in the end." }, { "id": "t1_olpr4hw", "author": "/u/Playful_Annual3007", "updated": "2026-05-14T06:42:37+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/olpr4hw/", "content": "I have a similar situation. Of four grandparents, three died in their beds or after short illnesses. Of the great grandparents I know of, one died from being denied a surgery that is basically outpatient today, one was in her own home until the last two weeks of her life, and one dropped dead in the living room.\n Statistically, I’m much more likely to simply die instead of lingering on." }, { "id": "t1_olpdmfa", "author": "/u/rcc1201", "updated": "2026-05-14T04:51:46+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/olpdmfa/", "content": "Yep, grandparents and great grandparents lived to mid 80s to 90s, deaths on my dad's side were mainly due to accidents (even at late ages). On my mom's side they lived to mid-80s+ but the women get alzheimer's and eventually need to move into assisted living/memory care, so need to plan for that also..." }, { "id": "t1_olowqaa", "author": "/u/Potential_Salt_5780", "updated": "2026-05-14T02:56:47+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/olowqaa/", "content": "Yes this is the problem. My wife and I are very healthy, eat right, don’t drink or smoke, exercise religiously. Our parents are in their 80s and still relatively healthy. With better medical technology, we may live until 100 years old. I’ve prepared us to ensure we never run out." }, { "id": "t1_olp850h", "author": "/u/Mysterious_Peak4073", "updated": "2026-05-14T04:10:56+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/olp850h/", "content": "Most people who live into their 90s are mostly miserable due health decline. At that point dying would be a relief" }, { "id": "t1_olpd3do", "author": "/u/Due_Barber_525", "updated": "2026-05-14T04:47:44+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/olpd3do/", "content": "My next door neighbor spent his 90th birthday hiking and camping on the beach at the coast here. I’m half his age and tired just thinking about it." }, { "id": "t1_olr7o4q", "author": "/u/nybigtymer", "updated": "2026-05-14T13:11:16+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/olr7o4q/", "content": "Wow! That's very impressive!" }, { "id": "t1_olrv0p8", "author": "/u/MrDoritos_", "updated": "2026-05-14T15:04:08+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/olrv0p8/", "content": "I'm a quarter their age and half your age, are these activities available inside? Am I able to meet people there? /s" }, { "id": "t1_olp70m6", "author": "/u/AugustusClaximus", "updated": "2026-05-14T04:03:00+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/olp70m6/", "content": "I am not so desperate to cling to life that I’m gonna hang around very long if I can’t do fun things." }, { "id": "t1_olpb74b", "author": "/u/Wonderful-Process792", "updated": "2026-05-14T04:33:26+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/olpb74b/", "content": "You really don't know until you face it." }, { "id": "t1_olpzy5p", "author": "/u/alefeusch", "updated": "2026-05-14T07:59:48+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/olpzy5p/", "content": "True. But, the people I have known who faced it were either allowed to voluntarily make their exit, or spent the rest of their lives begging to be allowed to make their exit. Personally, I'd prefer the former." }, { "id": "t1_olr55qx", "author": "/u/fleur-tardive", "updated": "2026-05-14T12:57:50+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/olr55qx/", "content": "The problem is that such a decision takes tremendous presence of mind, agency and willpower" }, { "id": "t1_olr82xx", "author": "/u/alefeusch", "updated": "2026-05-14T13:13:23+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/olr82xx/", "content": "Well, like I said, I know people who have been denied the choice, so I agree with you that's it's not easy. But, they were very clear about what they wanted. They were just told to suffer instead. My great grandmother spent nearly every day for years begging for it to all end, with no way to make that happen. It was truly heartbreaking. It's one of the primary reasons that I chose a right-to-die state as my official US residency, although I spend most of the year abroad in various countries, so I can't be sure how it would all go down in reality. I've done my best to make it clear through legal directives, but I agree with you that even that isn't foolproof." }, { "id": "t1_olp93nd", "author": "/u/Diligent-Floor-156", "updated": "2026-05-14T04:17:54+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/olp93nd/", "content": "Yeah and having a dad who's a financial disaster, I've decided long time ago I'll not be a financial load on my own kids. So while I agree with the general idea, no way I spend it all by 80.\n But anyway I'm by far nowhere near the FIRE number." }, { "id": "t1_olpz77l", "author": "/u/alefeusch", "updated": "2026-05-14T07:53:05+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/olpz77l/", "content": "I think if I need to be cared for and cannot do so myself, my life is over anyways. At that point, I'd prefer to run out of money so that hopefully someone decides it's more cost effective to allow me to make my exit." }, { "id": "t1_olr4gtd", "author": "/u/Specific-Rich5196", "updated": "2026-05-14T12:54:08+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/olr4gtd/", "content": "I wish that was the way our system is in the US. You can be kept alive despite what you want as the system drains your life savings sitting in a nursing home." }, { "id": "t1_olqqyrp", "author": "/u/Emilstyle1991", "updated": "2026-05-14T11:36:21+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/olqqyrp/", "content": "I would just let myself die 100% over being a burden and economic cost to someone." }, { "id": "t1_olr4o6p", "author": "/u/Specific-Rich5196", "updated": "2026-05-14T12:55:14+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/olr4o6p/", "content": "You'd be surprised how hard it is to let yourself die when you are elderly. The system, family has ways to keep you alive despite what you stated you wanted." }, { "id": "t1_olp42tz", "author": "/u/Singularity-42", "updated": "2026-05-14T03:42:58+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/olp42tz/", "content": "I'm in my 40s now, I'd think something went very wrong if by my 80s there wasn't advanced robotics for elder care.\n I'm just not worried about it." }, { "id": "t1_olpts6f", "author": "/u/geerwolf", "updated": "2026-05-14T07:05:15+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/olpts6f/", "content": "Is that what you are working for ?\n To pay for living on a retirement home ?" }, { "id": "t1_olrcea2", "author": "/u/sandspitter28", "updated": "2026-05-14T13:35:08+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/olrcea2/", "content": "This! I worked in home care for a bit while I was in university (public and private) you do not want to be poor when you are old." }, { "id": "t1_olqt0j8", "author": "/u/Soggy-Attempt", "updated": "2026-05-14T11:48:57+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/olqt0j8/", "content": "Part of the point. People are planning for a tail event that doesn’t happen to most. Most people die before 80." }, { "id": "t1_olr48nq", "author": "/u/CaltonSmith", "updated": "2026-05-14T12:52:56+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/olr48nq/", "content": "Welcome to Germany where care is expensive if You have money and/or family but free if you dont." }, { "id": "t1_olrlm9y", "author": "/u/Redwolfdc", "updated": "2026-05-14T14:20:01+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/olrlm9y/", "content": "I mean sure but how much of your good years do you want to sacrifice just to be kept alive when you’re declined and decrepit just waiting to die." }, { "id": "t1_oltiot4", "author": "/u/BeatDense9049", "updated": "2026-05-14T19:34:31+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/oltiot4/", "content": "Yup at least 75% are dead or severely declined by 70. Saving up to “live” after 70 would be the dumbest thing on earth. Really at 40s life start changing. Endurance plummets, heat tolerance down, fatigue MUCH higher, much harder to get laid or have sex with your partner even. Major diseases strike like CAD, diabetes, cancer etc. probably 60% chance to be in that boat. Problem with society is you ONLY see the lucky people that are thriving because they are the ones out and about while the rest are mostly couch bound. And remember the top 10% have VASTLY superior health care and diet so if you aren’t even top 10% then your chances of longevity go down even more." }, { "id": "t1_ololmhe", "author": "/u/Immediate_Tap5840", "updated": "2026-05-14T01:52:49+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/ololmhe/", "content": "You’re not really providing any actual math. You’re providing a philosophy. Not saying it isn’t worthy of discussion though but it’s a clickbait title." }, { "id": "t1_olomkiy", "author": "/u/ColdOne1150", "updated": "2026-05-14T01:58:10+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/olomkiy/", "content": "You missed the math, it was the .2 cents at the end." }, { "id": "t1_olon1lx", "author": "", "updated": "2026-05-14T02:00:49+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/olon1lx/", "content": "[deleted]" }, { "id": "t1_olr0l5k", "author": "/u/90bronco", "updated": "2026-05-14T12:32:43+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/olr0l5k/", "content": "Inflation adjusted, its not much." }, { "id": "t1_olpm2rs", "author": "/u/Silocon", "updated": "2026-05-14T06:00:02+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/olpm2rs/", "content": "What's 4% of 2¢?... Do I have enough to retire?\n\n- Age 32, annual expenses $400k" }, { "id": "t1_olrrzft", "author": "/u/Bruceshadow", "updated": "2026-05-14T14:50:00+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/olrrzft/", "content": "is the 2cents in tax advantaged account?" }, { "id": "t1_olopqm7", "author": "/u/sweeneytodd70", "updated": "2026-05-14T02:15:58+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/olopqm7/", "content": "Touche! Good one. Haha, that one made me laugh." }, { "id": "t1_olooydp", "author": "/u/Judson_Scott", "updated": "2026-05-14T02:11:29+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/olooydp/", "content": "You’re not really providing any actual math. You’re providing a philosophy.\n And anecdata." }, { "id": "t1_olorx8k", "author": "/u/Common_economics_420", "updated": "2026-05-14T02:28:40+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/olorx8k/", "content": "I also don't think the actual math that exists supports the idea that everyone is basically dead by early 80's. Actuarial data puts life expectancy at like 82 on average for men if you live to 65. That's an average though, so theoretically there should be a healthy cohort (especially people with money and the intelligence to take care of their health) who live longer." }, { "id": "t1_olosr5a", "author": "/u/odanobux123", "updated": "2026-05-14T02:33:34+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/olosr5a/", "content": "Yeah. With my moms side longevity (grandparents 100+ and still alive) and my dads sides early onset dementia, I may have a long time being an expensive burden." }, { "id": "t1_olr02tn", "author": "/u/NA_Faker", "updated": "2026-05-14T12:29:51+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/olr02tn/", "content": "Life expectancy goes up the longer you live as well, average life expectancy is skewed down by people who die early" }, { "id": "t1_olooi8f", "author": "/u/rocket_mcsloth", "updated": "2026-05-14T02:08:59+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/olooi8f/", "content": "Yah, and in some horrible wall of text. OP sucks" }, { "id": "t1_ols4clp", "author": "/u/No-Coast3171", "updated": "2026-05-14T15:46:11+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/ols4clp/", "content": "Which is arguably MORE important than any math. Or at least the philosophy must come before the math and will influence the math you do." }, { "id": "t1_olol7gv", "author": "", "updated": "2026-05-14T01:50:27+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/olol7gv/", "content": "[deleted]" }, { "id": "t1_olongg5", "author": "/u/Acceptable_Travel_20", "updated": "2026-05-14T02:03:09+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/olongg5/", "content": "I hope everyone uses that calculator. I was made aware of it in this sub and it is really an eye opener. Take it a step further and assume that even if you aren’t dead, if your chances of being dead are in the + 70% range, you probably aren’t doing a whole lot besides eating, napping, and hanging out around the house." }, { "id": "t1_olourmg", "author": "/u/Free-Huckleberry-965", "updated": "2026-05-14T02:45:18+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/olourmg/", "content": "you probably aren’t doing a whole lot besides eating, napping, and hanging out around the house\n I mean I'm unemployed and that's what I do right now. It's lovely." }, { "id": "t1_olox8y2", "author": "/u/DistanceMachine", "updated": "2026-05-14T02:59:53+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/olox8y2/", "content": "Well, you don't need a million dollars to do nothing, man. Take a look at my cousin: he's broke, don't do shit." }, { "id": "t1_olq5v91", "author": "/u/CashHeavyAvocado", "updated": "2026-05-14T08:52:30+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/olq5v91/", "content": "You know what I would do with $1m?" }, { "id": "t1_olq7csv", "author": "/u/bfkill", "updated": "2026-05-14T09:05:46+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/olq7csv/", "content": "two chicks at the same time, man" }, { "id": "t1_olpd9wd", "author": "/u/Acceptable_Travel_20", "updated": "2026-05-14T04:49:06+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/olpd9wd/", "content": "No argument against that.\n Except, do you have a job lined up?" }, { "id": "t1_olq5g0z", "author": "", "updated": "2026-05-14T08:48:51+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/olq5g0z/", "content": "[deleted]" }, { "id": "t1_oloym3e", "author": "/u/technotrader", "updated": "2026-05-14T03:08:12+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/oloym3e/", "content": "Thank you for this. I've never gotten much use out of fire calcs, but this one is different, wow..\n It tells me that in 20 years, I have an equal chance of being dead, doing well, or doing super well.... unless I make an effort to be healthy, then it adds another six years for the same likelihoods - which doesn't even take quality of live into account !" }, { "id": "t1_oloztec", "author": "/u/badlemonademan", "updated": "2026-05-14T03:15:20+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/oloztec/", "content": "Thanks for sharing. I found this comforting. My only scenario I worry about is being broke. And this says I have <5% chance of that in any year. Pretty solid. Death makes up a big %, but not much I can do about that!" }, { "id": "t1_olrke6q", "author": "/u/Dhayson", "updated": "2026-05-14T14:14:10+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/olrke6q/", "content": "Does this take into account an increase in life expectancy?" }, { "id": "t1_olrncis", "author": "/u/slanderpanther", "updated": "2026-05-14T14:28:11+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/olrncis/", "content": "According to this calculator I should be dead already." }, { "id": "t1_olsq8vg", "author": "/u/MammothDull6020", "updated": "2026-05-14T17:24:17+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/olsq8vg/", "content": "Great link. Thanks for sharing. I am unsure what does "retirement years" mean. Years until I want to be retired?" }, { "id": "t1_oloml4p", "author": "/u/thesonofdarwin", "updated": "2026-05-14T01:58:16+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/oloml4p/", "content": "I'm ok dying with money if it means not dying with none. I have 100% of my assets being given to charities that will make good use of my conservative strategy. But if my death is dragged out for a painful decade after drawing down to pennies, there is no backup plan in this country. I don't have the luxury of family I can burden if my choices go tits up." }, { "id": "t1_olpm1ux", "author": "/u/Adept_Spinach_55", "updated": "2026-05-14T05:59:49+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/olpm1ux/", "content": "Not snark- but do you not consider Medicaid a back up plan? Or is Medicaid not considered because you have to be unable to care for yourself in 2 areas of daily function before it kicks in? That is my understanding at least. No it’s not great, but still seems like a government back up plan to me. ETA- I’m talking Medicaid for long term care, not low income health insurance." }, { "id": "t1_olqii11", "author": "/u/smarterhack", "updated": "2026-05-14T10:38:16+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/olqii11/", "content": "I mean Medicaid isn’t gonna pay for your property taxes, groceries, bills. If you run out of money, you run out of money." }, { "id": "t1_olp62i5", "author": "/u/Wooden-Broccoli-913", "updated": "2026-05-14T03:56:25+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/olp62i5/", "content": "You are ok dying with money but are you also ok with working more years in your prime than you had to?" }, { "id": "t1_om877d6", "author": "/u/FiammaDiAgnesi", "updated": "2026-05-17T00:59:37+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/om877d6/", "content": "I think your point about how having a family that can help out is key. I think OP (and many people on this thread) are conflating expected values and maximums. If you have a family to fall back on and the money gets redistributed between all of you, saving enough to cover your expenses for an average lifespan is probably a-ok. If you don't, you need to save enough to cover you in the maximum scenario (if you don't want to run out of money in retirement) because you can't pool resources with enough people that you'd be able to get things to average out" }, { "id": "t1_oloonlu", "author": "/u/Judson_Scott", "updated": "2026-05-14T02:09:48+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/oloonlu/", "content": "I've been on week-long backpacking trips with an 80-year-old.\n I also live with a 75-year-old whose dementia demands $13K/mo. for decent care.\n I'm not concerned about missing out now by not spending enough money, because I'm 54, live relatively cheaply, and my life is fantastic. "You should spend more in order to be more happy" doesn't apply across the board." }, { "id": "t1_olovkgr", "author": "/u/NetherIndy", "updated": "2026-05-14T02:49:55+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/olovkgr/", "content": ""You should spend more in order to be more happy" doesn't apply across the board.\n I think that's the biggest takeaway. I'm spending way under 4% of nest. I have a dynamic spending plan to try and ramp up spending over time assuming things go well. But, in general, I have enough . Enough stuff, enough experiences, not wanting for anything at all. It is my joy and happiness to cook a meal cheaply. To find a heckuva deal at the thrift store. To walk through a shopping mall and come out with literally nothing at all, because I just didn't need anything. The most memorable nights in my traveling have been in a $15 backpackers room in Langkawi or a $10 ger in Mongolia, far, far more than the 'nicest' places. I'm thrifty because I like being thrifty, not any other reason." }, { "id": "t1_olpcrbw", "author": "/u/tryafirsttimer", "updated": "2026-05-14T04:45:11+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/olpcrbw/", "content": "The Swedish have a term for it its called Lagom. Its not too much not too little, being content. Life in balance. While we aspired to Fire we were chasing money alpha workers climbing corporate ladder. Once we realize we had enough to make do life was so much happier. No stress. We arent trying to impress. We are just keeping ourselves and family happy. You gotta learn how to turn it off." }, { "id": "t1_olr5e78", "author": "/u/SlightDogleg", "updated": "2026-05-14T12:59:05+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/olr5e78/", "content": "[ Removed by Reddit ]" }, { "id": "t1_om2m2uy", "author": "/u/PlsStopAndThinkFirst", "updated": "2026-05-16T03:49:38+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/om2m2uy/", "content": "So glad I have family and don’t have to rely on money hungry businesses to pretend they care about my well being while my brain rots" }, { "id": "t1_ololm3y", "author": "/u/22marks", "updated": "2026-05-14T01:52:46+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/ololm3y/", "content": "I have family members in their mid-late 80s who still play golf, drive well, and take vacations. I do agree with your overall sentiment that you can't wait too long, but it's also more likely we'll have better healthcare and should plan into the 80s. "Healthiest men went south by late 70s" might be true sometimes, but it can definitely extend into the 80s. I do see that slowdown happening in late 80s. But on the other hand, look at Paul Rudd approaching 60." }, { "id": "t1_oloqhj9", "author": "/u/KickstandSF", "updated": "2026-05-14T02:20:16+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/oloqhj9/", "content": "At 52 I could say “look at Paul Rudd.” Now that I’m 56 and health issues have crept in, I realize I’m no Paul Rudd." }, { "id": "t1_oloq4jl", "author": "/u/jsttob", "updated": "2026-05-14T02:18:11+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/oloq4jl/", "content": "it's also more likely we'll have better healthcare\n In America? What are you smoking?" }, { "id": "t1_olowl6x", "author": "/u/TennesseeStiffLegs", "updated": "2026-05-14T02:55:57+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/olowl6x/", "content": "It terms of product quality the US has the absolute best in the world. Having the money for it is another story" }, { "id": "t1_oltae6h", "author": "/u/Jvckkkk", "updated": "2026-05-14T18:55:29+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/oltae6h/", "content": "I'm sorry people can't read, I understand what you're saying" }, { "id": "t1_olotd2a", "author": "/u/22marks", "updated": "2026-05-14T02:37:07+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/olotd2a/", "content": "Hah, fair. That came out wrong. Not in terms of pricing or insurance. I meant breakthroughs like targeted mRNA therapies." }, { "id": "t1_olooczj", "author": "/u/genX_rep", "updated": "2026-05-14T02:08:12+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/olooczj/", "content": "Most men I know in my parents' generation stopped travelling by 80, and actively resist leaving the house. I met 2 men that were active in their 80s, and I only ever met one sharp guy in his 90s." }, { "id": "t1_olosxxv", "author": "/u/odanobux123", "updated": "2026-05-14T02:34:40+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/olosxxv/", "content": "My grandpa was sharp until 95 and walking around and taking the train, then slowly declined but is still here 7 years later." }, { "id": "t1_olrrzqz", "author": "/u/Nobody_Important", "updated": "2026-05-14T14:50:03+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/olrrzqz/", "content": "Most people I know in my parent’s generation in general are less interested in traveling and none were into health and wellness the way many people I know in their 40s are now." }, { "id": "t1_oloquj4", "author": "/u/Common_economics_420", "updated": "2026-05-14T02:22:21+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/oloquj4/", "content": "People are stuck in the 1970's or 80's era of medicine where you can't do anything after 65. Between medical technology and the prevalence of TRT, you can stay active pretty late in life provided you actually put the effort in" }, { "id": "t1_olot2w7", "author": "/u/22marks", "updated": "2026-05-14T02:35:28+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/olot2w7/", "content": "People also see life expectancy of, say, 79. Which is what it was at when I looked last. But that's from when you're born. If you make it to 80, Social Security numbers show the average man lives another ~8 years, and women live another ~9-10 years." }, { "id": "t1_olou759", "author": "/u/Common_economics_420", "updated": "2026-05-14T02:42:05+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/olou759/", "content": "Exactly. I have a background in actuarial science and it drives me up the fucking wall when people try to talk authoritatively about life expectancy and still don't know that the data you're referring to is readily available." }, { "id": "t1_olov21r", "author": "/u/22marks", "updated": "2026-05-14T02:46:54+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/olov21r/", "content": "Well, you're the right person for this thread. How far would you realistically plan out, based on what you see in today's numbers?" }, { "id": "t1_olr6ohz", "author": "/u/Common_economics_420", "updated": "2026-05-14T13:05:57+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/olr6ohz/", "content": "I use 92. Maybe a bit ambitious, but I'm a healthy person and have had some long-lived relatives.\n Honestly I think life expectancy is less important than you'd think in fire calculations. Adding years on the end usually doesn't make too much of an impact given the importance of SORR in early retirement." }, { "id": "t1_olsj6q2", "author": "/u/youngishgeezer", "updated": "2026-05-14T16:52:38+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/olsj6q2/", "content": "I agree. In my planning using Boldin I have my plan set out to 100 based on a few relatives living to late 90s and over 100. I'm generally aiming for some wealth preservation, so if a plan works to 90 it will work to 100. If you plan to die with zero I know of no good way to plan for that other than annuities or programs like Social Security (why I will delay at least one of our start dates to 70)." }, { "id": "t1_olr4v62", "author": "/u/heridfel37", "updated": "2026-05-14T12:56:16+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/olr4v62/", "content": "Table if you want to look for yourself: https://www.ssa.gov/oact/STATS/table4c6.html" }, { "id": "t1_oloyt95", "author": "/u/Zone2OTQ", "updated": "2026-05-14T03:09:21+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/oloyt95/", "content": "Wally Hesseltine is recognized as one of the oldest men to complete a 100-mile race, finishing the Tunnel Hill 100 in 2023 at age 80 with a time of 26:22:26. For women, Erlinda Biondic is recognized as the oldest to complete a 100-mile race, setting the record at age 82." }, { "id": "t1_ololejk", "author": "/u/Fun_Hotel4863", "updated": "2026-05-14T01:51:33+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/ololejk/", "content": "I always thought the RE part of FIRE meant deciding when you’ve had enough and can make enough compromises in your spending that you can live with what you’ve got.\n The concept has become to muddled and now it’s “i have to be a multimillionaire so I can retire early and still vacation in the Hamptons”\n Edit: for more context. People describe coastfire and baristafire as just what I called life in the early 20’s. If you’ve got no debt and your needs are met, you can work 20-30 hours a week for Big Corporate and sustain a 1BR apartment lifestyle forever.\n RE is having just enough where you don’t even need to do that." }, { "id": "t1_olr6iyf", "author": "/u/SlightDogleg", "updated": "2026-05-14T13:05:08+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/olr6iyf/", "content": "The concept has become to muddled and now it’s “i have to be a multimillionaire so I can retire early and still vacation in the Hamptons”\n It seems retirement for some means "spare no expense", especially when people are on here asking if they can retire with $5m+" }, { "id": "t1_olomyeb", "author": "/u/lee_suggs", "updated": "2026-05-14T02:00:19+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/olomyeb/", "content": "Counter point: even if most people work 2-3 extra years they will still retire much earlier than the general population. Most people would rather work 2-3 years than run out of money or have to cut spending. Most people don't hate their jobs THAT much" }, { "id": "t1_olpzzxs", "author": "/u/Limp-Archer-7872", "updated": "2026-05-14T08:00:14+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/olpzzxs/", "content": "A lot of FIRE is people not liking their jobs or just wanting more time today but work not allowing it. I think a lot of people would be happy to buy back 4 more weeks of holiday per year from their employer, and/or work 4 day weeks, but this isn't offered in the main, so they RE as soon as they can." }, { "id": "t1_oltquo6", "author": "/u/H_Peace", "updated": "2026-05-14T20:13:05+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/oltquo6/", "content": "I like my job, but it drains too much out of me. Fortunately, it has extreme flexibility. Work 100% make 100%. Work 20%, make 20%. So now my RE is more like retire semi-early and just try to work a whole lot less until then (aiming for 3 day work week). Fuck the grind" }, { "id": "t1_omfrbam", "author": "/u/Strazdas1", "updated": "2026-05-18T06:21:24+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/omfrbam/", "content": "I have the option to take unpaid extra vacation days and its great. It does slow down wealth accumuation because you are basically unemployed for those extra days." }, { "id": "t1_olr5ma4", "author": "/u/heridfel37", "updated": "2026-05-14T13:00:16+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/olr5ma4/", "content": "Yeah, OP is really just providing the justification for FIRE. After that, it's about balancing your exact level of risk across several types of risk." }, { "id": "t1_olownir", "author": "/u/Easterncoaster", "updated": "2026-05-14T02:56:20+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/olownir/", "content": "Yep. My parents retired to a wealthy retirement community. The money doesn’t do anything once your mind starts to go. It’s a tad depressing going to visit them and seeing them and their friends decline further every year.\n When they were my age they had all these interesting hobbies like going on long boat trips, but they were always time constrained. Now that they’re not constrained by time, they don’t have the energy, will, or guts to take on those trips anymore. They haven’t even owned a boat in a decade and now they’re in a great place for boating (FL with a 12 month boating season unlike NJ which only has 8-10 good boating weeks).\n FIRE has been amazing for me. My first summer I did 8 weeks of travel with my middle school-aged kids. This never would’ve been possible had I still been chained to a desk with 3 weeks of vacation time per year. We’ll do it again this summer.\n So long story short- get the heck out there and live. Worst case, you run out of money and have to work some more in your 50s or 60s but if I had to choose between (a) live it up in 40s and work in 60s, or (b) work hard until 65 then start living, I’ll choose (a) every time." }, { "id": "t1_olp9heq", "author": "/u/ResearcherFantastic5", "updated": "2026-05-14T04:20:42+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/olp9heq/", "content": "wife and i are 35 now and really hoping we can hit FI number sometime between 40-45. we've got an almost 3 year old and a 6 month old. definitely dreaming of 2 month summer trips with them." }, { "id": "t1_olr6ubb", "author": "/u/SlightDogleg", "updated": "2026-05-14T13:06:49+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/olr6ubb/", "content": "Same boat with with an older kid. I just want to be able to attend my kid's sports without asking for permission from my boss and filling out a bunch of leave forms. I'm so bunt out from a 9-5 it's hard to muster up the energy to play with him after school." }, { "id": "t1_olrhl2u", "author": "/u/KungFuBucket", "updated": "2026-05-14T14:00:35+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/olrhl2u/", "content": "I took this same philosophy. Was able to attend almost all of my kids sports activities because I was work from home. My son’s senior year - work tried to get everyone to come back into the office, which for me was a 90 minute commute. I quit that nonsense and became my son’s high school wrestling coach. Best decision ever." }, { "id": "t1_olsoqhw", "author": "/u/wh0re4nickelback", "updated": "2026-05-14T17:17:25+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/olsoqhw/", "content": "Worst case, you run out of money and have to work some more in your 50s or 60s\n Good luck trying to re-enter the work force and getting anything that pays decently at that age with an employment gap. Even people that don't FIRE but are in their 50's and 60's face age discrimination.\n I'd rather work a few more years to ensure that I never have to work again. It's totally worth it to me, but I get that it's not for everybody." }, { "id": "t1_olp0bm5", "author": "/u/Mundane-Charge-1900", "updated": "2026-05-14T03:18:26+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/olp0bm5/", "content": "It depends on your occupation. Going back to work in your 50s/60s is not an option for many. Working minimum wage won’t cut it." }, { "id": "t1_olqx5w3", "author": "/u/Easterncoaster", "updated": "2026-05-14T12:13:15+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/olqx5w3/", "content": "It’s negative thinking like that which ties us to the desk.\n It’s not like you run out of money by surprise; you’ll see it coming for years." }, { "id": "t1_olqlxek", "author": "/u/Armadillolz", "updated": "2026-05-14T11:03:08+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/olqlxek/", "content": "Where did you visit?" }, { "id": "t1_olqwump", "author": "/u/Easterncoaster", "updated": "2026-05-14T12:11:26+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/olqwump/", "content": "We started the summer off with a 2 week Europe trip (Italy, Austria, Germany) then got home and did a 6 week road trip from NY to Arizona, then spent a chunk of time in Utah (amazing in the summer), then up to Yellowstone, across to northern Idaho, then back home.\n We have a big RV that I bought in contemplation of the whole FIRE plan, was a really great time." }, { "id": "t1_ols52b7", "author": "/u/Bruceshadow", "updated": "2026-05-14T15:49:18+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/ols52b7/", "content": "Worst case, you run out of money and have to work some more in your 50s or 60s\n no. One worse-r case is you run out in your 60's and have a major health decline so you can't work. Spoiler, that isn't as uncommon as you think and only one example of how it can go down. You are gambling with being really fucked or placing the burden on family members." }, { "id": "t1_olseiyo", "author": "/u/Easterncoaster", "updated": "2026-05-14T16:31:38+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/olseiyo/", "content": "I honestly don’t know why you’re on the FIRE sub. We take risks every day, and FIRE people are choosing to take the risk that their investment plan will work.\n I won’t ever “run out of money” because I spend less than the income on my investments. Yes, there will be down years and up years, but at 4% SWE you’d even survive a 2007-style downturn." }, { "id": "t1_olom59i", "author": "/u/yoshimipinkrobot", "updated": "2026-05-14T01:55:47+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/olom59i/", "content": "Elder care is expensive in the US" }, { "id": "t1_oloyjv5", "author": "/u/ThereforeIV", "updated": "2026-05-14T03:07:50+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/oloyjv5/", "content": "Well that's not what I was expecting...\n The reason most FIRE is wrong is the blindly following the sacred *"4% Rule"* as a retirement strategy when it is at best a planning tool.\n Real Retirement withdrawal rates are actually closer to 6.7%..." }, { "id": "t1_omfr6t1", "author": "/u/Strazdas1", "updated": "2026-05-18T06:20:18+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/omfr6t1/", "content": "At 6.7% the failure rate is above 0% and therefore unacceptable for most FIRE people." }, { "id": "t1_olxz29r", "author": "/u/Caroline_Anne", "updated": "2026-05-15T13:05:46+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/olxz29r/", "content": "I’m a fan of guardrails and adjusted drawdowns depending on the market. 4% is a great guideline but it’s not the holy grail. Especially for someone willing to adjust their spending." }, { "id": "t1_omkmp3b", "author": "/u/ThereforeIV", "updated": "2026-05-18T23:20:55+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/omkmp3b/", "content": "- Flexible Budget\n - Cash Buffer\n - Bond/Income Hedge\n Those three alone take care of everything but the worse 4-5 SORR in the last century.\n Add in Guardrails and it guess down to 2.\n So there are two SORR in the last century that an Abort Criteria and go back to accumulation is the only path." }, { "id": "t1_olol2v0", "author": "/u/FullyAutomatedSpace", "updated": "2026-05-14T01:49:43+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/olol2v0/", "content": "have you looked at actual studies?e" }, { "id": "t1_olopnfb", "author": "/u/Inevitable_Pride1925", "updated": "2026-05-14T02:15:28+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/olopnfb/", "content": "How fast you decline is heavily influenced by healthy you are in your 40’s, 50’s, and 60’s.\n I work in healthcare the level of difference between people of the same age is startling.\n For instance I’m 44 but look like a woman with early grays in her early to mid 30’s. I come from a family of women who lived into their late 80’s and early 90’s and everyone one of them smoked into their 40’s & 50’s. My maternal great grandmother smoked until her death bed at 93.\n In the other hand I had a coworker who I was close to at one time. He and I were talking about retirement and he told me he wasn’t planning for one. Apparently every male in his family had died of heart problems before 55. Well a few years later he had heart surgery. He just got discharged from the ICU a few weeks ago. He needs a heart transplant and kidney transplant. He’s unlikely to get them and without them will die in the next 6-24 months. He’s 51…\n Essentially family history and overall health matter a lot. Plus there are some really good statistics that social security has about lifetime left based on age. Essentially if you’re 70 and in good health you stand a very good chance of living into your early 80’s and a moderate chance of living into your late 80’s. That information is t person specific but it does help to understand longevity risk." }, { "id": "t1_olosg6l", "author": "/u/JacobAldridge", "updated": "2026-05-14T02:31:46+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/olosg6l/", "content": "The specific math you want to research is “the retirement smile”, which shows how actual retirees spend their money on average.\n The problem with applying that, though, is “ergodicity”. You don’t live 1,000 lives and enjoy the “average” - you only have 1, unpredictable life to plan for .\n The extreme analogy to make the point is Russian Roulette. 5 blank chambers that guarantee you always have enough money; 1 loaded chamber that… well, I guess it’s the same guarantee for different reasons.\n Would you pull the trigger?\n\n- On average, it’s a hugely successful strategy.\n\n- Enormous EV.\n\n- All the finance podcast guests who played talk about how well it worked.\n But I wouldn’t do it. And I’m planning for my retirement, not an average of everyone’s." }, { "id": "t1_olpurmb", "author": "/u/Alternative-Donut-38", "updated": "2026-05-14T07:13:35+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/olpurmb/", "content": "I think it’s also because, even if you will most likely die before your wealth runs out, the impact of that small probability would be catastrophic. In risk terms - low probability, high impact." }, { "id": "t1_ololh95", "author": "/u/bpat", "updated": "2026-05-14T01:51:59+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/ololh95/", "content": "But what if you make it to 100" }, { "id": "t1_olosskz", "author": "/u/gerdude1", "updated": "2026-05-14T02:33:48+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/olosskz/", "content": "The question is do you want to make it to 100. I look at quality of life (most man in my family didn’t make 80) and you have to ask yourself if it still there. My stepdad made it to 92, but was in his last 5 years 2 weeks in the hospital and the 2 weeks at home.\n There are very few people that have a decent quality of life past 80, the rest are just waiting to die. I appreciate the assisted suicide laws that exist in quite a few jurisdictions, so people can choose when to end it." }, { "id": "t1_ols6zq8", "author": "/u/Bruceshadow", "updated": "2026-05-14T15:57:51+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/ols6zq8/", "content": "The question is do you want to make it to 100\n yes, and beyond." }, { "id": "t1_olv29im", "author": "/u/CrazydaveVR", "updated": "2026-05-15T00:26:06+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/olv29im/", "content": "If you plan properly you’ll likely be the richest you’ve ever been" }, { "id": "t1_oloomnf", "author": "/u/jeebidy", "updated": "2026-05-14T02:09:39+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/oloomnf/", "content": "I was just reading an article about seniors who had to rejoin the workforce. I’d say the bulk of people in this sub lean towards planning for risk ahead of time." }, { "id": "t1_ololqo5", "author": "/u/warlizardfanboy", "updated": "2026-05-14T01:53:29+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/ololqo5/", "content": "I mostly agree but it’s about where you fall in the spectrum. $60k spend with 1.4 mil is a different story than 200k spend with 5 million, you can shrink costs in downturns. But yes there are a lot of people with issues here who will never think they have enough." }, { "id": "t1_ols30hx", "author": "/u/NetworkAggravating39", "updated": "2026-05-14T15:40:17+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/ols30hx/", "content": "This is an under appreciated comment. Past a certain income threshold it’s more about time as alluded to in the original post. Fly economy to Maine instead of business class to Prague for your vacation. The odds of running out of money are extremely low with that kind of flexibility, and latching onto “one more year” at that point could really cost you…" }, { "id": "t1_ololt5w", "author": "/u/kodiak_kid89", "updated": "2026-05-14T01:53:53+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/ololt5w/", "content": "Data and analysis on the 50 would be helpful. Your conclusions are extremely general. Also, how is there an “extreme majority” when your sample size is 50? Sus." }, { "id": "t1_olott3a", "author": "/u/itsallokintheend", "updated": "2026-05-14T02:39:46+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/olott3a/", "content": "The risk of being wrong is too great. Better to over save than outlive your money." }, { "id": "t1_olv319q", "author": "/u/CrazydaveVR", "updated": "2026-05-15T00:30:46+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/olv319q/", "content": "The risk of not living a fulfilling life is too great for me. Sure over save but don’t over work. One can life a great life on a modest income." }, { "id": "t1_ololkw5", "author": "/u/398409columbia", "updated": "2026-05-14T01:52:34+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/ololkw5/", "content": "I agree with your thinking. The 4% rule is way too conservative. My plan is to live it up until I’m 70 and then slow down significantly in terms of travel and expenses." }, { "id": "t1_oloykzu", "author": "/u/itsallokintheend", "updated": "2026-05-14T03:08:01+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/oloykzu/", "content": "This is a good plan in theory but increased spending early in retirement coupled with a few down years in the market can really change the trajectory of your portfolio." }, { "id": "t1_oloywnr", "author": "/u/398409columbia", "updated": "2026-05-14T03:09:53+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/oloywnr/", "content": "I am comfortable with the risk profile" }, { "id": "t1_olp9ouf", "author": "/u/Eli_Renfro", "updated": "2026-05-14T04:22:11+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/olp9ouf/", "content": "It's pretty easy to claim that it's too conservative while you're still drawing a paycheck. Once the reality of living off of your portfolio is staring you in the face, those planned higher withdrawal rates feel a lot less secure." }, { "id": "t1_olondng", "author": "/u/brianmcg321", "updated": "2026-05-14T02:02:43+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/olondng/", "content": "This study has already been done and it’s talked about often.\n It’s called the “Spending Smile”\n https://retirementresearcher.com/retirement-spending-smile/" }, { "id": "t1_olovdn8", "author": "/u/oouids6", "updated": "2026-05-14T02:48:47+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/olovdn8/", "content": "I fully get what you’re saying, and acted on it. More folks should probably think harder about your point.\n Now 58 isn’t a Fire goal for most, but that was the best I could do. Even still, I’ve been surprised how many folks have acted like that was really early. I’m in decent shape and bank the comments that I don’t look old enough to be retired, but know that is temporary.\n Less can be more sometimes, most folks just don’t get that. Happy to trade good years for piles of money that I can’t use fully at post 70+ ….. assuming I even make that far." }, { "id": "t1_olp2kv7", "author": "/u/openclaw-lover", "updated": "2026-05-14T03:32:56+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/olp2kv7/", "content": "I agree with you. 75 or after, you health just goes down hill quickly." }, { "id": "t1_ols7io1", "author": "/u/green_sky74", "updated": "2026-05-14T16:00:13+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/ols7io1/", "content": "The other side of this argument is that running out of money when you are old really, really sucks." }, { "id": "t1_olombmi", "author": "/u/Sanfords_Son", "updated": "2026-05-14T01:56:48+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/olombmi/", "content": "I retired last October, and transitioning from the accumulation phase to liquidating has been difficult. I find myself watching my spending more closely now than I did before I retired." }, { "id": "t1_oloufvw", "author": "/u/saveferris512", "updated": "2026-05-14T02:43:27+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/oloufvw/", "content": "For those who like data you can touch base with how many statistical years you have left according to the Social Security Administration's actuarial tables. They, of course, are in the business of understanding the probabilities of life and death and have access to relevant data which they share thusly: https://www.ssa.gov/oact/STATS/table4c6.html" }, { "id": "t1_olp10nw", "author": "/u/freshlysaltedwound", "updated": "2026-05-14T03:22:50+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/olp10nw/", "content": "I treated a patient when I was an emt who was in his early 60s. He was going to an assisted living facility. His wife told me that they had saved for retirement and worked hard their whole lives to be able to travel when they retired, missing out on trips when they were younger. They went on one cruise and then he got diagnosed with cancer. So yeah, take the trip. Put away 15% towards retirement so you can still retire and beyond that really examine if you’re having the life you want to live or if you’re putting away too much money to actually enjoy life." }, { "id": "t1_olrw6zr", "author": "", "updated": "2026-05-14T15:09:34+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/olrw6zr/", "content": "[deleted]" }, { "id": "t1_olsminc", "author": "/u/Redwolfdc", "updated": "2026-05-14T17:07:33+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/olsminc/", "content": "It’s a mindset tbh and something created to get people to work for big companies and pay their taxes.\n There are people who could “retire” when they are very young or who are just insanely wealthy. But you notice with celebrities, athletes, wealthy business leaders they never really talk about retirement in the sense average people do. It’s always about retiring from something when they do. When you aren’t slaving away to corporations for some carrot that’s been hanging in front of you, retirement is irrelevant.\n Honestly the goal I think is to be FI enough to do what you want. Not work some job you hate for decades for some “heaven” promised in your later years." }, { "id": "t1_ololwcq", "author": "/u/MostEscape6543", "updated": "2026-05-14T01:54:23+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/ololwcq/", "content": "All the people I know if their 70’s are declining fast. The physical aspect is really rough but the mental decline is striking, as well.\n It makes me really want to focus on my physical health. But also I understand what you are saying about spending as many younger years retired as possible." }, { "id": "t1_oloqs9k", "author": "/u/Medium_Produce_7397", "updated": "2026-05-14T02:21:59+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/oloqs9k/", "content": "Right, there’s people in here worried about travel and shit. I’m not doing any traveling if I live from 70-90. I’d imagine expenses are low as fuck during that time." }, { "id": "t1_oloxovr", "author": "/u/kilimtilikum", "updated": "2026-05-14T03:02:36+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/oloxovr/", "content": "Most men in my family kick the bucket at around 70. It’s why I want to retire early." }, { "id": "t1_olpa7y1", "author": "/u/tryafirsttimer", "updated": "2026-05-14T04:26:08+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/olpa7y1/", "content": "Average life expectancy for a us male who is currently 50 is 79 yrs old.\n My dad died at 64 smoker. His dad 65. Mom at 82 alzheimers ( brain dead at 78) couple grandparents in late 80’s .\n I Fired at 52, wife at 50. I will guarantee i will not be regretting not working till 65 on my death bed.\n Being self made i think generational wealth is a guarantee to fuck up your kids. Get them a good education and a good start and let them live their fuckin lives not yours. Choose a worthy charity and make some deserving peoples lives a little better (ours is Ronald McDonald house helping families with sick and terminal kids ). If i am blessed to live to 95 my forecast is to give 20mm to them" }, { "id": "t1_olp0507", "author": "/u/Pale_Will_5239", "updated": "2026-05-14T03:17:17+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/olp0507/", "content": "Def trying to drink myself to death" }, { "id": "t1_olp1huh", "author": "/u/sluttyman69", "updated": "2026-05-14T03:25:53+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/olp1huh/", "content": "Then they’ve seen that it doesn’t look as much fun as it sounds" }, { "id": "t1_olpqhh2", "author": "/u/Peppers5", "updated": "2026-05-14T06:37:12+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/olpqhh2/", "content": "I pay 2K a week for a live-in for my mom." }, { "id": "t1_olqo609", "author": "/u/Odd-Elderberry-6137", "updated": "2026-05-14T11:18:22+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/olqo609/", "content": "Then provide it. You’ve said the math is wrong and just given platitudes that everyone is already well aware of.\n The whole reason for conservative withdrawals and maintaining a portfolio is to insure against going broke before you die." }, { "id": "t1_olr3ctn", "author": "/u/Unfair_Mechanic_7305", "updated": "2026-05-14T12:48:07+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/olr3ctn/", "content": "We will have to agree to disagree. You are planning for the nicest room in the nursing home. Different mindsets. I contend that living your life from ages 50-75 is much more important. Obviously save and make good decisions but everyone planning for 95 like grandma is not the answer." }, { "id": "t1_olqoyg8", "author": "/u/Brostradamus-2", "updated": "2026-05-14T11:23:30+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/olqoyg8/", "content": "Swear to god this sub is actually the "long term care" subreddit rather than the retire early subreddit." }, { "id": "t1_olr3eqg", "author": "/u/Unfair_Mechanic_7305", "updated": "2026-05-14T12:48:25+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/olr3eqg/", "content": "Grin. Well said." }, { "id": "t1_olr4sk7", "author": "/u/eeeeeelinor", "updated": "2026-05-14T12:55:52+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/olr4sk7/", "content": "Serious question--do you guys not think you will live to 75? And that you need a plan for that?\n A lot of you seem to think you'll have one foot in the grave at 45. That isn't really how it goes." }, { "id": "t1_olu5ehp", "author": "/u/Brostradamus-2", "updated": "2026-05-14T21:23:28+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/olu5ehp/", "content": "I plan on retiring early so I can live a healthy ass lifestyle in a country with a good healthcare system that produces healthy food and ride out my already healthy genetics until the end of my days.\n Serious question to you: What should I do instead? Spend additional prime years of my life working to mitigate some risk that is in all likelihood never going to come to pass? Meanwhile incurring more of the daily stress and wear and tear that would be more likely to cause my health to deteriorate later in life?\n That sounds like a shitty solution. Spreadsheet bros need to learn that you can't mitigate every risk that may ever face you in life. Sometimes you need to just live and figure it out later. Me worrying about some imaginary scenario that is literally 40+ years away is foolish and stupid." }, { "id": "t1_olro5pu", "author": "/u/kitapjen", "updated": "2026-05-14T14:32:01+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/olro5pu/", "content": "The issue is spending usually increases toward later stages. Health issues and end of life care.\n Living in a nursing facility costs about $100k/year." }, { "id": "t1_oloo0px", "author": "/u/Vivid-Koala-6459", "updated": "2026-05-14T02:06:19+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/oloo0px/", "content": "The choice is simple. Be the richest guy in the cemetery, or be broke and living at home. It’s a fine balance, but no one wants to be a burden. Make RE a choice and you’ve the ability to plan and pull the pin when you want to. The math only works when you’re honest with both the numbers and your own risk appetite." }, { "id": "t1_oloo3xb", "author": "/u/Narezza", "updated": "2026-05-14T02:06:49+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/oloo3xb/", "content": "The goal is to die at 90 with zero in the bank account.\n But if the options are dying at 75-80 with money left over, vs at 90 in complete poverty, I'll take money left over." }, { "id": "t1_oloot06", "author": "/u/chili_cold_blood", "updated": "2026-05-14T02:10:39+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/oloot06/", "content": "the extreme majority of people suffer a huge decline in their late 70s and by early 80s it’s almost over.\n If you can no longer live independently, that period can get very expensive." }, { "id": "t1_olopqp5", "author": "/u/dragonflyinvest", "updated": "2026-05-14T02:15:59+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/olopqp5/", "content": "You’re arguing against math today?" }, { "id": "t1_oloqpvu", "author": "/u/faille", "updated": "2026-05-14T02:21:36+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/oloqpvu/", "content": "My grandma just turned 100, and my dad’s aunt died at 104 last summer after living independently until literally the last two months. I might live forever." }, { "id": "t1_olp814d", "author": "/u/maskrey", "updated": "2026-05-14T04:10:11+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/olp814d/", "content": "The math is meant as a reference, yet many people treat it as gospel.\n For FI the numbers are moderately useful, IF you can even decide what FI is to you. Retirement is a whole different ball game. The fact that you post some numbers and base your retirement decision on that is frankly stupid, especially if you think about retiring at 30 or 40.\n People on here often say retire into something. Well, it needs to bee, and will be, a lot more than "something". Our whole life most of us have a very clear goal in front of ourselves. When you have literally no goal in front of you, how do you react? Most people are scared of the unknown. THIS is the main reason people put up retirement. People are scared of leaving their current life AND they are scared that what they plan to happen will not happen, that they will be in unknown circumstances.\n What if the reality doesn't work out like you math? How about manage, adapt, react like a real person, not a formula? People are scared shitless to do this, not just regarding FIRE, but for any aspect of life. I see this everywhere. People will choose what they are rhe most mentally comfortable with almost everytime, not what objectively makes the most sense." }, { "id": "t1_olpa8ec", "author": "/u/WallStCRE", "updated": "2026-05-14T04:26:14+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/olpa8ec/", "content": "Love all the supporting data and numbers your provided to support your theory" }, { "id": "t1_olr2uzj", "author": "/u/Unfair_Mechanic_7305", "updated": "2026-05-14T12:45:25+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/olr2uzj/", "content": "Common sense, critical thinking, and causal observations. Data and numbers will not give you a specific time of how long you will live nor will it show quality of life after 75 years old. This is my point and some people can’t put the excel spreadsheet down for answers to life. It is not that cut and dry, because of that it is scary for most people and they cling to the numbers." }, { "id": "t1_olpdgik", "author": "/u/LilRedCaliRose", "updated": "2026-05-14T04:50:30+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/olpdgik/", "content": "I agree. I’m 40. Just did the math and this means I have only 30-40 good years left. 😭" }, { "id": "t1_olv3g4k", "author": "/u/CrazydaveVR", "updated": "2026-05-15T00:33:14+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/olv3g4k/", "content": "You should definitely spend 25 of them working…unless of course you love your work and then you actually should but otherwise…." }, { "id": "t1_olpgbcs", "author": "/u/KingPabloo", "updated": "2026-05-14T05:12:53+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/olpgbcs/", "content": "Have you seen the cost of long term care? My mom is in care now with her dementia and it’s insanely expensive. I think many are under estimating care in their elder years." }, { "id": "t1_olphqit", "author": "/u/Jassokissa", "updated": "2026-05-14T05:24:15+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/olphqit/", "content": "I suppose for me my fire plan isn't that strict. I travel, go out and invest what's left over. So I don't think I'm "missing" anything.\n Then again, my RE part is much later than for most people here. Probably around 57-58. Official retirement age, when I start getting a pension is 65 years. So I kinda have to find my life completely for 8 or so years, after that I only have to supplement my pension, which looks to be around a median salary if I stop working around 57-58 yo. So for that 8 or so years, I'm actually thinking of spending even up to 8% (or even more, depending) though I'll be able easily adjust that down, if the economy tanks.\n Also living in a country with universal healthcare, so when I'm finally headed into a home or other elderly care, that'll be taken care of (yes, I know I've been paying high taxes all my life for it, but at least I don't have to worry about that part).\n So yeah, I've enjoyed my life so far and I'm planning to keep doing so for quite some time. Eventually aging will be getting to me, I'm just hoping I'll have 10-15 good years left when I retire. Hopefully they'll pass some euthanasia laws too, before I'm institutionalized..." }, { "id": "t1_olpnkue", "author": "/u/iamslumlord", "updated": "2026-05-14T06:12:33+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/olpnkue/", "content": "I mean, my math isn't wrong.. but I have been realizing I can likely do it in a year and not 3 recently..." }, { "id": "t1_olpp59d", "author": "/u/finpossible", "updated": "2026-05-14T06:25:49+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/olpp59d/", "content": "Fyvvc" }, { "id": "t1_olqc20r", "author": "/u/srqfla", "updated": "2026-05-14T09:47:11+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/olqc20r/", "content": "Two things are true. 1)Your investment will compound positively over the next 30 years if you invest them well. 2)Your health and energy will compound negatively over the same 30 years.\n This is the retirement paradox. Our investments are the smallest when our energy is the greatest. We will likely have too much money we will never have the energy to spend In our '70s" }, { "id": "t1_olsbxlj", "author": "/u/commoncents1", "updated": "2026-05-14T16:20:01+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/olsbxlj/", "content": "other factor is to consider is assisted living/memorycare reserve for expenses. its very expensive.\n not only for yourself/spouse, but for your parents if they are not in a good financial position for those type expenses." }, { "id": "t1_olsdi87", "author": "/u/Dangerous-Cry-2873", "updated": "2026-05-14T16:27:01+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/olsdi87/", "content": "Relative that still plays golf 3 days a week, dinner with friends often just turn 87. This OP is using the same thinking that the author of Die with Zero used. The numbers were really off." }, { "id": "t1_olsgp49", "author": "/u/rr90013", "updated": "2026-05-14T16:41:27+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/olsgp49/", "content": "Yep, but also get long term care insurance to help with the costs of elderly care" }, { "id": "t1_olshoqq", "author": "/u/Familiar_Poet1448", "updated": "2026-05-14T16:45:55+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/olshoqq/", "content": "Same. I have two grandmothers in their 90s. Both are basically fully supported by my parents and aunts/uncles because their retirement just didn't stretch that long. They love living with family and seeing them all the time, but I want the option of not putting that burden on my kids." }, { "id": "t1_olt9y2f", "author": "/u/fasttalkerslowwalker", "updated": "2026-05-14T18:53:25+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/olt9y2f/", "content": "Man, I’ve been lurking here for a little while and have come to the same top line conclusion, but in completely the opposite direction. I think most people here are taking crazy risks with their futures and I’d bet lots of people here could be very broke and living off public assistance in their later years. The math of living off a few hundred grand for upwards of 50 years, which I’ve seen lots of people advocate for, is crazy to me. Equity markets might drop 40% in a year when unexpected costs arise. Or maybe you retire into 1970s-style stagflation and see the value of your portfolio eradicated that way. Meanwhile, you’ve trashed your human and relational capital, you’ve also given up your claim to social security because you’ll have worked so little. I’m extremely fortunate because I’m in a highly paid profession (for now, we’ll see how long it takes AI to displace me) and will get more in inheritance that I could ever hope to realistically save. But I’m not gonna quit working for a while because I cannot imagine being as old as my parents are and being out of money. I wish y’all the best, but I really can’t believe the amount of reckless thinking I see on this sub." }, { "id": "t1_olv6u5l", "author": "/u/CrazydaveVR", "updated": "2026-05-15T00:53:41+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/olv6u5l/", "content": "Yes, maybe retiring at 35 with $500k and 3 kids is very risky but at 55 with $3M is not so much. And Yes, there are an infinite numbers of ways things could go well and an infinite number of ways things could go bad…nothing in life has a 0% chance of failure don’t kill yourself trying to create one." }, { "id": "t1_olti4rr", "author": "/u/Troyer59", "updated": "2026-05-14T19:31:51+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/olti4rr/", "content": "My biggest concern about RE is healthcare. One diagnosis can be financial ruin." }, { "id": "t1_olwcb69", "author": "/u/JayNetworks", "updated": "2026-05-15T05:36:26+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/olwcb69/", "content": "Most countries have good social health insurance. If you are US then ACA give anywhere from basic to full coverage all depending on what you budget to pay.\n One diagnosis should by whatever you out of pocket maximum is." }, { "id": "t1_olttzlg", "author": "/u/Future-Account8112", "updated": "2026-05-14T20:27:53+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/olttzlg/", "content": "I mean, on the flip side in my family if you don't die of cancer in your 40s-50s you live to your 90s. Do you know how many people I've known who ate dog food in their 80s?\n That's not how you want to spend your 80s." }, { "id": "t1_olvcbk5", "author": "/u/CrazydaveVR", "updated": "2026-05-15T01:26:21+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/olvcbk5/", "content": "My guess is none….i never once known or heard of anyone who’s known nor read in the news of anyone who was forced to eat dog food….aside from that Peruvian guy on Pluribis. This is through the lens of western civilization and this sub-Reddit. I realize throughout the world there are those in very very tough conditions but I doubt they’re reading r/Fire" }, { "id": "t1_olv3ftb", "author": "/u/Grouchy_Treacle_1639", "updated": "2026-05-15T00:33:11+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/olv3ftb/", "content": "So in your opinion, how much do you really need to retire as a couple? My husband and I struggle with this question. We are 60 and will bring in around $4000 a month in Social Security when we hit 65, and between savings, investments and Real Estate, we're only at 800,000. But we don't plan on doing any world traveling, we're just tired of working and want to enjoy life. Is that enough?" }, { "id": "t1_olwbvla", "author": "/u/JayNetworks", "updated": "2026-05-15T05:32:52+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/olwbvla/", "content": "You have said how much you will bring in 5 years from now an how much you have net worth...but how much do you spend each year? (Or how much will you stay within once you retire if different.)\n That is key to knowing if you can eat into the 800,000 for 5 years then back off and then still have enough for 20 to 40 years depending on family longevity and personal health.\n Do you spend $50,000 per year? $100,000? $150,000?" }, { "id": "t1_olvmexh", "author": "/u/Business_Statement_5", "updated": "2026-05-15T02:27:33+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/olvmexh/", "content": "My grandmother is 91 and kicking. Unfortunately l, we can’t assume we will be out by a certain age." }, { "id": "t1_olvwkc8", "author": "/u/thepoobah99", "updated": "2026-05-15T03:37:14+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/olvwkc8/", "content": "You are 100% right. Live. If you outlive your money do a reverse mortgage. You cant take it.l with you" }, { "id": "t1_om1vy8l", "author": "/u/Upper-Tea-7033", "updated": "2026-05-16T00:58:51+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/om1vy8l/", "content": "Erin Talks Money and Michael Kitces have a really good discussion about 4% is too conservative, working too long, not retiring earlier. https://youtu.be/B3Po35uaXL0?si=NpA2HO6tA4Turo1a" }, { "id": "t1_om28nka", "author": "/u/Boring_Adeptness_334", "updated": "2026-05-16T02:18:46+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/om28nka/", "content": "You’re definitely right. Everyone pretends like they need $150k/year to live when their actual spend is $65k" }, { "id": "t1_om97hwe", "author": "/u/Hot_Leopard6745", "updated": "2026-05-17T05:11:23+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/om97hwe/", "content": "There are two resources you need to enjoy RE, money and time. Most of this sub focus on the money part but neglected the time part.\n would you rather be:\n young and healthy but poor\n old and weak but wealthy\n middle age but have enough" }, { "id": "t1_ololl35", "author": "/u/ShareEvening5856", "updated": "2026-05-14T01:52:36+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/ololl35/", "content": "I believe fire will be studied after Bitcoin for the biggest fomo case in Internet history in terms of the amount of money it created honestly. I have never seen people save so much in the name of not saving later." }, { "id": "t1_ololohy", "author": "/u/ShareEvening5856", "updated": "2026-05-14T01:53:08+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/ololohy/", "content": "(of course this would assume that this particular fomo case will leave readers in its wake and I'm not sure if it will" }, { "id": "t1_olomq47", "author": "/u/Wheat_Grinder", "updated": "2026-05-14T01:59:02+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/olomq47/", "content": "I see that and think two things:\n First of all, the difference between retiring even at 50 and going to 80 vs 100 is basically no different.\n Second of all, boy that period between late 70s and early 80s is gonna suck up money like crazy." }, { "id": "t1_oloncbb", "author": "/u/alexunderwater1", "updated": "2026-05-14T02:02:31+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/oloncbb/", "content": "Most people don’t take into account the risk of dying.\n If you have a 99% chance of success for a 50yr period, but have a 35% chance of making it to the end, what’s the point?\n Make sure to reflect on mortality rates in your plan.\n Ai is great for researching this now. You can ask it to provide a “risk quadrant” accounting for portfolio survival and physical survival . You’ll find that it’s quite a bit lower risk that you’ll run out before you’ll likely die." }, { "id": "t1_olonhs4", "author": "/u/Satjr1510", "updated": "2026-05-14T02:03:23+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/olonhs4/", "content": "There is some merit to this. There was a study by a doctor who said he wouldn’t treat terminal illnesses after 75. It would mean just prolonging the pain. It does bring up the making arrangements to be cared for after the 80s. My parents did deteriorate quite quickly in the mid 70s." }, { "id": "t1_olonjjt", "author": "/u/alternatiger", "updated": "2026-05-14T02:03:40+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/olonjjt/", "content": "The time after kids go to college and before their kids go to kindergarten is really prime time to spend your nest egg. I’m going on like 4 trips with my in laws this year they are enjoying every moment with our young ones." }, { "id": "t1_olonpzu", "author": "/u/Aberdeen1964", "updated": "2026-05-14T02:04:41+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/olonpzu/", "content": "Agree with you. And also not trying to start a fight but when wealth managers charge 1% of net assets, they want retirement assets to grow, not draw down. Draw downs should be around 6% - not 4%." }, { "id": "t1_olooktg", "author": "/u/Future_Measurement42", "updated": "2026-05-14T02:09:23+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/olooktg/", "content": "A withdrawal of 7% would benefit 50% of all retirees." }, { "id": "t1_oloomv9", "author": "/u/Unfair_Mechanic_7305", "updated": "2026-05-14T02:09:41+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/oloomv9/", "content": "I think most people planning for living until 90 years old are afraid to face the statistics and fact that they probably won’t make it that long. My grandmother made it 104 but the last few years weren’t good. Everyone else was gone by 78 - 81 time frame including everyone around us living an upper middle class lifestyle. I don’t think I will make until 104 myself. Quality over quantity. No one gets out alive." }, { "id": "t1_olotci2", "author": "/u/odanobux123", "updated": "2026-05-14T02:37:01+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/olotci2/", "content": "I don’t know how I can just make the assumption that I’ll die before 80 and then not have a potential 15 years of no money though. It is unknowable. But I don’t disagree with your advice to make sure to live better while you still have your health," }, { "id": "t1_oloor8j", "author": "/u/shiloh88", "updated": "2026-05-14T02:10:22+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/oloor8j/", "content": "You should read Die With Zero, some stupid stuff in there but some interesting ideas as well" }, { "id": "t1_oloozrs", "author": "/u/billymumfreydownfall", "updated": "2026-05-14T02:11:42+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/oloozrs/", "content": "Well no shit, Sherlock. You didn't have to take a sample size of 50 people you know to have this information - thats the law of averages. But you know what that means? Lots of people live into their 90s and still have to plan for that possibility. Also, you mention men, but women are actually healthier and live years longer." }, { "id": "t1_olop4cv", "author": "/u/pinkzebra00", "updated": "2026-05-14T02:12:26+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/olop4cv/", "content": "Grandparents lived til late 80s and early 90s. I don’t plan to be homeless by retiring early with not even a million. I also can’t plan to die early or hope to die early just to RE…." }, { "id": "t1_olop7hv", "author": "/u/ECrispy", "updated": "2026-05-14T02:12:56+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/olop7hv/", "content": "I'm not even sure the 4% rule is good. all costs are going up. any fun like trips costs so much more now, basic food costs more, and returns arent increasing. and then you have medical costs.\n FIRE is fine for the rich, for most normal people its a fantasy. I guess this sub is for rich people only or those in a very LCOL who already have a house and low expenses.\n SS is not a guarantee either. it may even go banlrupt, then what are you gonna do?\n I agree with the general point of the post, live your life in the present and make good memories the future is uncertain." }, { "id": "t1_oloxkcb", "author": "/u/invisible_man782", "updated": "2026-05-14T03:01:49+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/oloxkcb/", "content": "Costs are going up but so is the value of assets. Wages are not keeping up." }, { "id": "t1_oloppz7", "author": "/u/sithren", "updated": "2026-05-14T02:15:52+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/oloppz7/", "content": "Yeah I get all that.\n But, as much as I don’t look forward to the decline, i dont want to have to experience it while being broke." }, { "id": "t1_olopqzl", "author": "/u/agoodspace", "updated": "2026-05-14T02:16:02+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/olopqzl/", "content": "My grandma is 104 and lived ON HER OWN until 99." }, { "id": "t1_oloput0", "author": "/u/Crowlady77", "updated": "2026-05-14T02:16:38+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/oloput0/", "content": "When you go downhill it’s expensive" }, { "id": "t1_oloqde5", "author": "/u/spartybasketball", "updated": "2026-05-14T02:19:37+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/oloqde5/", "content": "“Even millions…” if you don’t have more than a single million, you aren’t ready to retire early" }, { "id": "t1_oloqhao", "author": "/u/tpet007", "updated": "2026-05-14T02:20:14+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/oloqhao/", "content": "I mean, generally you’re right because FIRE is full of pessimistic, anxious optimizers. In reality, most of us will be perfectly fine because there’s a lot of flexibility in budgets for anyone who’s not doing extreme leanFIRE. More of the failures I read about are people realizing they didn’t focus enough on what they wanted to retire to than people running out of money or not enjoying retirement because they had to tighten the budget too much." }, { "id": "t1_oloqr4e", "author": "/u/Hitogoroshi80", "updated": "2026-05-14T02:21:48+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/oloqr4e/", "content": "My Dad is 80. He just spent several weeks in Europe." }, { "id": "t1_olor816", "author": "/u/Hefty-Principle-5932", "updated": "2026-05-14T02:24:33+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/olor816/", "content": "I wholeheartedly agree, people should know more about the guardrails approach, and most retirees automatically adjust spending without any prompting, when markets fall, thus mimicking guardrails. Most people overwork, for a guarantee which may never be fulfilled. What I mean by this is that all money is fiat, there can be hyperinflation and a million dollar will be equivalent to a loaf of bread. Even if it exhausts or will exhaust, you have a good runway of 10 to 15 years before it actually does. Reducing lifestyle, downsizing are all valid options including going back to work." }, { "id": "t1_olosrnc", "author": "/u/No_Welder2085", "updated": "2026-05-14T02:33:39+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/olosrnc/", "content": "Isn't this the main driver behind Die with Zero?" }, { "id": "t1_olosxka", "author": "/u/readsalotman", "updated": "2026-05-14T02:34:36+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/olosxka/", "content": "I retired from fulltime work 7 years ago, at 34. I have twice as much invested now than I did then. Life is too short." }, { "id": "t1_olpm82g", "author": "/u/injapenguin", "updated": "2026-05-14T06:01:15+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/olpm82g/", "content": "What did you do when you retired at 34? What was your yearly withdrawal rate?" }, { "id": "t1_oloszc4", "author": "/u/darnelles-r", "updated": "2026-05-14T02:34:53+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/oloszc4/", "content": "Just watched an interview with Michael Kitces about this. Basically, he says as long as you have your basic retirement math worked out (like 4%/year) and you are willing to spend a little less during bad market years, that you can be very confident that your money will last through your entire retirement. He said that this scenario has been very predictable through the years with his clients. What he said he still isn’t able to get to a precise science is how to help people ‘die with zero’. Interview: https://youtu.be/B3Po35uaXL0?si=W0pRL5CHJfIgs-IK" }, { "id": "t1_olotd7f", "author": "/u/Legitimate_Bite7446", "updated": "2026-05-14T02:37:08+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/olotd7f/", "content": "My grandparents are all alive and in good shape in their 80s, so are most of their siblings. They like to do things. I expect medicine will be far better in 10-20+ years and we should probably be smart." }, { "id": "t1_olovrkp", "author": "/u/Mindov_1", "updated": "2026-05-14T02:51:03+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/olovrkp/", "content": "Of course it’s wrong, how are you guys calculating life and all its unexpectedness." }, { "id": "t1_olovt13", "author": "/u/Mindov_1", "updated": "2026-05-14T02:51:16+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/olovt13/", "content": "/thread" }, { "id": "t1_olowavl", "author": "/u/Ledzeppelinbass", "updated": "2026-05-14T02:54:14+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/olowavl/", "content": "Will have free healthcare, don’t care." }, { "id": "t1_olown4r", "author": "/u/bestjaegerpilot", "updated": "2026-05-14T02:56:16+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/olown4r/", "content": "Read books by business owners. They laugh at FIRE. "Who cares if i'm a millionaire if i'm in a wheelchair? I wanna enjoy life now while i can"\n Additionally, thanks to the power of AI, you can run simulations yourself---most FIRE peeps are NOT saving enough money anyway to account for real-world inflation, crashes, pandemics, etc. FIRE numbers most peeps use were created for a different time" }, { "id": "t1_olowpkv", "author": "/u/RScrewed", "updated": "2026-05-14T02:56:40+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/olowpkv/", "content": "The easy solution to this is to supplement your gains in the market with gains in the gym, duh." }, { "id": "t1_olowxk3", "author": "", "updated": "2026-05-14T02:58:01+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/olowxk3/", "content": "[deleted]" }, { "id": "t1_olvbd6h", "author": "/u/CrazydaveVR", "updated": "2026-05-15T01:20:35+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/olvbd6h/", "content": "Where do you live where 90yo die in the streets (not by choice-mental problems)? Unless you’re literally in the third world I don’t see that happening. All western societies have some social safety net…thanks to FICA, etc. If things get so bad that all those safety nets vanish then we’re all proper screwed anyway." }, { "id": "t1_olox0ig", "author": "/u/saltyhasp", "updated": "2026-05-14T02:58:30+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/olox0ig/", "content": "Fire math is not wrong. You have to plan out to about 5% life expectancy, or you have to buy an annuity with inflation escalation which is effectively planning for mean life expectancy which is mid to late 80's (but you also have to pay the company extra to manage and profit from it).\n My mom is 96 and still on her own. My dad died early 60's. It is a crap shoot." }, { "id": "t1_olox9jj", "author": "/u/Great_White_Samurai", "updated": "2026-05-14T02:59:59+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/olox9jj/", "content": "You never know. My grandpa was active until his mid 90s. My FIL has been going downhill fast since his mid 70s. He was a MD and active up to that point." }, { "id": "t1_oloxd22", "author": "/u/mrshenanigans026", "updated": "2026-05-14T03:00:35+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/oloxd22/", "content": "This is all the justification I need to pull the trigger. Carpe Diem yo. Time to Fire@40" }, { "id": "t1_olozxy1", "author": "/u/Inside_Type_3614", "updated": "2026-05-14T03:16:05+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/olozxy1/", "content": "Something I heard that’s always stuck with me - “the first person to live to 200 years old has already been born.”\n I absolutely aspire to retire, more than comfortably, by age 60 WHILE considering the stark reality that I only have another 23 years to amass a wealth supportive of 40+ years of life in retirement.\n Even looking at the last 100 years of life expectancy and market returns one cannot accurately foresee exponentially higher life expenses in developing countries. In these cases - more is definitely more." }, { "id": "t1_olp0cu5", "author": "/u/Haste-", "updated": "2026-05-14T03:18:38+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/olp0cu5/", "content": "I think the biggest thing is the 4% rule gets you 30 years more often than not, but going to 3.3% nearly garantees that you have created generational wealth. 3% and under and you are passing down more than what you retired with in a majority of situations.\n For most it’s only another 1-3 years to go from 4% to 3.3%. If you have younger family or kids or even a best friends son/daughter why not work another year or 2 to set up some insane wealth to be passed" }, { "id": "t1_olp0f9p", "author": "/u/Menu-Quirky", "updated": "2026-05-14T03:19:04+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/olp0f9p/", "content": "I can RE and i have the FI , but my wife will not let me do it . She doesn;t like the idea of her working and me not doing any work" }, { "id": "t1_olp4wfc", "author": "/u/gemlover", "updated": "2026-05-14T03:48:29+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/olp4wfc/", "content": "Can’t she retire too?" }, { "id": "t1_olp2dkm", "author": "/u/Whoamaria", "updated": "2026-05-14T03:31:35+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/olp2dkm/", "content": "give me a number" }, { "id": "t1_olp45qa", "author": "/u/GodlessAndChill", "updated": "2026-05-14T03:43:31+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/olp45qa/", "content": "Plan for the future, live like it doesn’t exist." }, { "id": "t1_olp4b95", "author": "/u/Active-Confidence-25", "updated": "2026-05-14T03:44:32+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/olp4b95/", "content": "Living after the decline isn’t living. I plan to exit stage left at that point." }, { "id": "t1_olp5zw8", "author": "/u/hunter9002", "updated": "2026-05-14T03:55:55+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/olp5zw8/", "content": "It’s tough, my family has a very random mix of people dying in their 70s and people living well into their 90s with great health. Not as much in-between. No telling which I’ll be. Only 34M right now though so plenty of time to figure it out." }, { "id": "t1_olp9iet", "author": "/u/Ok_Ad7867", "updated": "2026-05-14T04:20:54+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/olp9iet/", "content": "I do take trips, but I also have aging family where traveling too much will miss time with them that can never be recovered.\n Finding the balance is useful." }, { "id": "t1_olpaliw", "author": "/u/anon-okay", "updated": "2026-05-14T04:28:57+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/olpaliw/", "content": "You didn’t provide alternate math though" }, { "id": "t1_olpbeg8", "author": "/u/outrageousreadit", "updated": "2026-05-14T04:34:58+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/olpbeg8/", "content": "That’s because they invested in their portfolio, but forgot to invest in their health. You have to actively weight train to prevent body deterioration. (And eat protein. Rest well. All that.) And most people just don’t enjoy that kind of discipline and dedication." }, { "id": "t1_olpcota", "author": "/u/Due_Barber_525", "updated": "2026-05-14T04:44:40+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/olpcota/", "content": "My next door neighbor just turned 90 and celebrated his mother in law’s birthday. His wife is 77. Mother in law is 102." }, { "id": "t1_olpcpfq", "author": "/u/Prudent-Cash6620", "updated": "2026-05-14T04:44:47+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/olpcpfq/", "content": "No one is saying be a monk.\n And the goal is RE. So if you retire at 50 instead of 65, the comparison between the two on who will lead a more mobile daily life of running, swimming etc is pretty easy to figure out.\n Edit: we get what you are saying: enjoy life while you can. But again no one is saying to eat gruel, don’t read poetry or anything like that." }, { "id": "t1_olpgmnb", "author": "/u/Negative-Dingo3335", "updated": "2026-05-14T05:15:23+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/olpgmnb/", "content": "Coast FIRE is pretty fun :) we do our vacations every few months… take days off for ourselves when needed even if it’s a day to do nothing and rejuvenate… have kids so every new adventure is novel and always worth looking back at." }, { "id": "t1_olpgx4t", "author": "/u/ggblah", "updated": "2026-05-14T05:17:41+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/olpgx4t/", "content": "Only thing people here are doing wrong is focusing mentally so bloody hard on RE instead of passively saving and focusing on improving their lives in the present regardless of work. Stop fantasizing about retirement and start living, it's not about money, but if you think you're "missing out on the best years" just because you have a job you have a problem." }, { "id": "t1_olpifsi", "author": "/u/Dazzling_Plastic_598", "updated": "2026-05-14T05:29:54+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/olpifsi/", "content": "And if you life to 95?" }, { "id": "t1_olpiue7", "author": "/u/Brewskwondo", "updated": "2026-05-14T05:33:15+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/olpiue7/", "content": "I agree. 4% is often far too conservative. Most people will get social security, maybe some inheritance, will scale spending as they age, etc… i don’t the percentage is the problem though. It’s the mindset shift." }, { "id": "t1_olpjhk2", "author": "/u/Arrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrpp", "updated": "2026-05-14T05:38:32+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/olpjhk2/", "content": "by early 80s it’s almost over.\n I’ve known enough ~100 year olds to know this is definitely not the case. Sure, people decline as they age but most people are living meaningful lives at 80.\n I’d also wager that FIRE folks also take care of their minds and bodies better than the average person. So what might be 75-80 for an average person might be 85-90 here.\n Also note that once you strip out early deaths, life expectancy is closer to 85 in developed countries" }, { "id": "t1_olpofmg", "author": "/u/Garibaldi_S", "updated": "2026-05-14T06:19:46+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/olpofmg/", "content": "People forget to invest into their health, if your plan is to enjoy life, you need a body healthy enough to do so. I have my grandpa in his 80s who only has a couple of years left to live because he is fat and unhealthy, in the gym where I go there's also a man in his 80s who can keep up with me in terms of exercises (I'm 29 to give a perspective) and probably this man will live past 100" }, { "id": "t1_olptslo", "author": "/u/Full-Low-4042", "updated": "2026-05-14T07:05:21+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/olptslo/", "content": "Many of us have kids. We don’t want to end up broke if we retire too early, and become a financial burden. Plus, if you end up with too much money, you accelerate FIRE for your children, one of the greatest gifts of all." }, { "id": "t1_olpw519", "author": "/u/mattbillenstein", "updated": "2026-05-14T07:25:39+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/olpw519/", "content": "Easy to say everyone is over-preparing when we're in one of the longest sustained bull markets in history. There hasn't been a real credit cycle in ~17 years now.\n And if you play with any of the calculators, you realize how sensitive the outcomes are to little changes in rates of return, inflation, etc. I think it's warranted to be over-prepared rather than under-prepared if you're planning for a long retirement.\n Also one thing I've pointed out to some friends - medical technology is getting better and better - the first person who will live to 150yo is probably alive already. Many of us could reasonably live to 90 or 100 and have a higher quality of life than you might think today. Growing new body parts out of your own cells might be common in the next 20 years - imagine what that brings." }, { "id": "t1_olv7wzr", "author": "/u/CrazydaveVR", "updated": "2026-05-15T01:00:04+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/olv7wzr/", "content": "and if that happens robots and AI have probably taken over the labor force and we’ll either be terminated or on government stipends." }, { "id": "t1_olpxq34", "author": "/u/SaucyCouch", "updated": "2026-05-14T07:39:42+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/olpxq34/", "content": "Everyone’s saying: you can decline in your 70s and live until 90!\n I live in Canada, if you run out of money you can just do medically assisted suicide.\n I agree with you homie, the subs full of autists" }, { "id": "t1_olq8db0", "author": "/u/seeyouintheyear3000", "updated": "2026-05-14T09:14:53+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/olq8db0/", "content": "If you think people are still going to have the same health outcomes at 70/80 in 30-40 years from now I have a bridge to sell you\n You don’t have to save assuming you’ll reach 100, but the odds of that happening are not the same they were even 10 years ago. We’re likely to see some incredible things in healthcare and medicine with AI. Look at what GLP-1s have done for obesity and multiply that 100-1,000x (or realistically probably more)." }, { "id": "t1_olq8qtc", "author": "/u/Definitelynotagolem", "updated": "2026-05-14T09:18:11+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/olq8qtc/", "content": "lol my grandparents on both sides lived into their 90s and they were all unhealthy. I eat healthy and exercise daily, so I figure I’ll live at least into my 90s barring any kind of accidental death or freak disease.\n I think we’re going to be fine, but I’m not going to spend recklessly in RE just because of the possibility I might die in my 70s or 80s. The point is not working for me, not having some super nice lifestyle." }, { "id": "t1_olqadi2", "author": "/u/MutedFeeling75", "updated": "2026-05-14T09:32:43+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/olqadi2/", "content": "Hmm" }, { "id": "t1_olqc1b3", "author": "/u/Rushedhomeroughyn", "updated": "2026-05-14T09:47:01+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/olqc1b3/", "content": "The reality is a lot of people become somewhat miserly in retirement, even people with plenty of money. I’ve seen it with different family members over the years. They technically have the money, but mentally it never feels the same once you no longer have income consistently coming in like you did for 40 years from a job or business. I think especially for business owners, cash flow becomes a survival instinct after decades of worrying about payroll, taxes, slow periods, overhead, etc. Even when they’re financially secure, their brain still operates like the engine could stop tomorrow. The ironic part is some people spend their entire life building financial freedom and then never fully relax enough to enjoy it." }, { "id": "t1_olqf3st", "author": "/u/smarterhack", "updated": "2026-05-14T10:12:03+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/olqf3st/", "content": "My grandma lived to 85. My grandpa (who was an obese alcoholic and didn’t take care of his body by any means) lived to 90. Great grandma lived till 93. The list goes on. I have to assume I’ll live well into my 90s if not past 100." }, { "id": "t1_olqhfn4", "author": "/u/spartanburt", "updated": "2026-05-14T10:30:10+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/olqhfn4/", "content": "ErinTalksMoney has an episode explaining how most people (at a certain middle class income, I forget the exact qualifier) die with more than they started retirement with. Kinda crazy.\n That's not all bad if your main goal is to leave an inheritance." }, { "id": "t1_olqks9n", "author": "/u/stentordoctor", "updated": "2026-05-14T10:55:03+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/olqks9n/", "content": "THIS!! People are mad when they hear that we gave up 550k household income to live within 40k per year. Sooo many have that one-more-year syndrome." }, { "id": "t1_olqmpnr", "author": "/u/CS-PF", "updated": "2026-05-14T11:08:39+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/olqmpnr/", "content": "What about the fact that medical costs skyrocket for memory care, live-in-nurses, end of life care, etc?" }, { "id": "t1_olqnr6k", "author": "/u/lopsided-earlobe", "updated": "2026-05-14T11:15:42+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/olqnr6k/", "content": "People should delay SS til 70 and then buy an immediate annuity at age 70 for their entire remaining cash. Create a self funded pension, that would eliminate longevity risk." }, { "id": "t1_olqr48m", "author": "/u/Electrochemist_2025", "updated": "2026-05-14T11:37:18+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/olqr48m/", "content": "What math? A prediction that cost of living and market and interest rates stay the same or increase by a small magic number? It’s a prediction market." }, { "id": "t1_olqrv5e", "author": "/u/ClubZealousideal9784", "updated": "2026-05-14T11:41:58+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/olqrv5e/", "content": "I mean, you could be like you should live with your parents, work two jobs after high school, and retire in a developing country at 24 with a mid upper class lifestyle." }, { "id": "t1_olqslgk", "author": "/u/cds4850", "updated": "2026-05-14T11:46:26+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/olqslgk/", "content": "I’m here to fight, no discuss." }, { "id": "t1_olqsum5", "author": "/u/Soggy-Attempt", "updated": "2026-05-14T11:47:58+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/olqsum5/", "content": "People trying to predict the future is a fools errand" }, { "id": "t1_olqszjz", "author": "/u/Identity525601", "updated": "2026-05-14T11:48:47+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/olqszjz/", "content": "Thank you. Things are not going well at my job (not that there ever was a point in my career that I'd say things were going well, it's always felt like a house of cards) so reading this and realizing I'm probably okay even if I get axed tomorrow, is a good thing to remember." }, { "id": "t1_olqubba", "author": "/u/Imaginary_Peak_3217", "updated": "2026-05-14T11:56:37+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/olqubba/", "content": "I think one thing I think about is,, I'm 31 and what does the next 60 years look like when you look at medicine and technology? I'm a firm believer that it's just going to keep increasing and having drastic change over our lifetime. People decline now at 80 years old let's say, but that's 50 years away from me, that number could be 100 for my generation we have no idea. I agree that enjoying your life is important (hence why I have a coast fire number and total fire number), but also the thought of running out of money if I am out of work for 40+ years because I wasn't safe enough is... Way worse. Just my 2 cents. Not even going into what the work force might look like or any crazy theories about AI and stuff at that time." }, { "id": "t1_olqv94y", "author": "/u/worktogethernow", "updated": "2026-05-14T12:02:09+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/olqv94y/", "content": "I am planning to ratchet up my risk taking behavior every year after retirement. I want to go out fast, even if it is a little early." }, { "id": "t1_olqvorr", "author": "/u/creepy-farter", "updated": "2026-05-14T12:04:42+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/olqvorr/", "content": "My 2 cents.\n Recent inflation spikes resurrected the memory of my grandmother complaining about how much everything was spiking in the 1970’s. She couldn’t afford to live on her fixed income.\n So some of us want a more inflation proof retirement. A bigger cash pile will do that.\n Second point, while I’ve been saving a lot my income has also risen by a bit and I’ve been able to loosen my purse strings. It’s nice being able to spend more freely.\n I think a retirement of having to go back to watching every penny would be dull. I’m taking nicer trips now that I may not be able to afford in retirement" }, { "id": "t1_olqwxtd", "author": "/u/wpbth", "updated": "2026-05-14T12:11:57+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/olqwxtd/", "content": "If you are in poor heath or have bad genes. Retire at 50, third world. Then go back to work at 65." }, { "id": "t1_olr476n", "author": "/u/eeeeeelinor", "updated": "2026-05-14T12:52:42+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/olr476n/", "content": "Who the hell do you think will hire you at 65? With no work history for 15 years, no less?" }, { "id": "t1_olqxzuf", "author": "/u/Actual_Load_3914", "updated": "2026-05-14T12:18:04+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/olqxzuf/", "content": "Also, your thinking might be influenced by the recent good luck in stock market. It won't always be like this, in fact, our fortune might turn very soon as the market as a way to revert back to the mean. Ultimately, it's a calculated risk / reward that we all have to make at individual level. The classic OMY situation." }, { "id": "t1_olqy4yy", "author": "/u/pokemon2jk", "updated": "2026-05-14T12:18:54+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/olqy4yy/", "content": "I think you brought up a great point money anxiety and fear of running out is real. The best years of your life for retiring is between 50s to 60 unless you already achieved FI in your 40s. At 50s you are still able to do more activities and enjoy a good meal once you hit 70-80 no matter how many billions you have you can't enjoy it when your health starts going down" }, { "id": "t1_olqzjfr", "author": "/u/MattieShoes", "updated": "2026-05-14T12:26:48+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/olqzjfr/", "content": "My own middle ground has been to start taking the vacations I was planning on taking in retirement. Ya know, profligate trips to other parts of the globe. Still maxing out retirement accounts, but it's probably going to push back my retirement date a bit. But if I'm doing the things I was planning on doing in retirement, while maintaining my health coverage through work... eh. Not sweating it. It comes when it comes and I'm having a great time on those vacations now." }, { "id": "t1_olr07jc", "author": "/u/gerald-stanley", "updated": "2026-05-14T12:30:35+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/olr07jc/", "content": "Get busy living. Tomorrow might never come" }, { "id": "t1_olr1u56", "author": "/u/Lovethestones", "updated": "2026-05-14T12:39:43+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/olr1u56/", "content": "I’m definitely an outlier in this community. Most people on here are in a better position financially. Unfortunately I got sidetracked. I worked as a trader on the floor of the commodities exchange and had made several million before I was 35.\n Trading moved to the computer screens and my job became obsolete. I spent the next decade reinventing myself in a new industry.\n I was always preoccupied with having enough money, obsessed over it. While my new career has been lucrative pivoting from having all the trappings of wealth and then have the career suddenly disappear through my life into financial upheaval. I now live a more modest debt free life.\n Things have stabilized and I am trying to make up for lost time. Which is not easy\n My lesson: despite your best intentions, you can not plan for everything, be in the best possible physical condition you can be in case your plans don’t work out and you need to work longer, enjoy life and don’t live like a miser for some future self that may or may not exist.\n Most people never have their worst fears materialized, mine did, I came out on the other side wiser and more grateful for the present moment.\n I will probably have to work a lot longer than most people on here but thankfully I am able to choose when and how much I work." }, { "id": "t1_olr2qmb", "author": "/u/Visual_Astronomer_38", "updated": "2026-05-14T12:44:45+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/olr2qmb/", "content": "My great grandma died at 106 in 2016.... She outlived 4/5 of her children and met 6 great-great-grandchildren. My great aunt was well off enough to take care of her though. But she could walk and was clear minded." }, { "id": "t1_olr3tst", "author": "/u/eeeeeelinor", "updated": "2026-05-14T12:50:43+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/olr3tst/", "content": "I think you should put this somewhere safe and take it out to read at 55. You'll get a really good laugh.\n Ah, the hubris of youth. I'm not saying that to be an asshole--I like young people and find you charming.\n But yeah, you're way off base.\n I do agree you should remember to enjoy life, at every stage." }, { "id": "t1_olr506g", "author": "/u/notgreatwithwit", "updated": "2026-05-14T12:57:01+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/olr506g/", "content": "We're mid 50s and trying to balance living life with hoarding money....and its not easy. We take the trips and do the things and try to be fiscally responsible while doing so." }, { "id": "t1_olr55p8", "author": "/u/Doc-Zoidberg", "updated": "2026-05-14T12:57:50+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/olr55p8/", "content": "Die with zero.\n If you adopt that, the numbers change drastically.\n I'm not saving for me. Im saving more for my wife n kids.\n My family is all demented by mid 60s. I will not rot in a memory card ward. But my wife's side of the family all stay relatively healthy into late 80s and 90s. Once the dementia hits im out. She'll have another 25 years." }, { "id": "t1_olr80aw", "author": "/u/MattBikesDC", "updated": "2026-05-14T13:13:00+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/olr80aw/", "content": "been thinking about this because no man in my family has lived past early 80s and most died in their 70s. but still planning to outlive them because I’m above average…" }, { "id": "t1_olr8gur", "author": "/u/fried_haris", "updated": "2026-05-14T13:15:20+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/olr8gur/", "content": "I like your thought process.\n Will need to come back and explore all the other comments." }, { "id": "t1_olrb7pu", "author": "/u/rexaruin", "updated": "2026-05-14T13:29:08+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/olrb7pu/", "content": "I think the point is it’s not all or nothing. Spend money when you are young on experiences. Saving every penny for 20 years sucks, live a little." }, { "id": "t1_olrcbn5", "author": "/u/Kat9935", "updated": "2026-05-14T13:34:45+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/olrcbn5/", "content": "There are several spending models that have you reduce spending as you age. You will find them in most of the fire calcs all with different variations.\n However, family history I think plays way more into those types of decisions than some arbitary study. Based on my family history I'll easily be traveling into my mid 80s, mid 50s now. How many trips do I need to take? If I take 2 a year, thats 60+ trips in my lifetime. The important thing is to do them in the right order... so we are hiking now, most of those trips are cheap. I can sit on a beach when Im old." }, { "id": "t1_olrcg5z", "author": "/u/steveo242", "updated": "2026-05-14T13:35:24+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/olrcg5z/", "content": "I'll disagree only with the leaving of wealth behind. My wife's mother is still cranking away at 88 so I can expect her to blow right through that on her way to a pool boy when I am in the dirt. So she will need to pay for all those comforts when I am gone, so yes I will probably kick in the 70's. All 4 grandparents went in the 70's, mom went at 71 so there's no reason to expect more than that for me, but the money you prepare for your family is why to be sure and not yolo that stuff. JMHO." }, { "id": "t1_olrdeej", "author": "/u/AnotherWahoo", "updated": "2026-05-14T13:40:08+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/olrdeej/", "content": "My wife and I look at our family histories. Plenty don't make it to late 70s, the rest are basically in slow-go. We incorporate slow-go into our FIRE number (which we determine on ficalc; we don't use WRs) by modeling lower discretionary spending in mid/late 70s.\n The impact on our FIRE number is small, which should not be surprising since the spend reduction happens so deep into retirement. Failure scenarios generally involve big losses early in retirement. As we model, if SORR doesn't knock us out in the first 5ish years, we're out of the woods on historical scenarios.\n So our large ending balance (2x starting balance in today's dollars) frequency is quite high, but that's the price we pay for mitigating SORR on the front end. I don't see a good way around that other than a very quick trigger on return to work if things look shaky early on.\n And I don't like that 'quick trigger' approach. If I took a couple years off, I'd probably return at half of today's comp. And the odds of SORR materializing are low, but for me personally it'd be a gut punch to return. Your situation/viewpoints could be different than mine, so this isn't a recommendation." }, { "id": "t1_olrdn8i", "author": "/u/stompinstinker", "updated": "2026-05-14T13:41:21+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/olrdn8i/", "content": "I see it with my friend’s elderly parents.\n The ones who exercise, ate healthy, were active, etc. Are going strong and even major health issues they bounce back from. I am talking 80+ and shockingly fit.\n And those who treated their bodies badly are all dead and dying.\n So it depends. And the thing with retiring early you remove a lot of stress, and open up a lot of time for exercise, cooking healthy, and getting good sleep. And a lot of money for supplements, Omega 3 fatty acids, and healthier food.\n Plus medical science is improving a lot.\n You may very well live a long life and need the money." }, { "id": "t1_olre9l5", "author": "/u/NoneyaBizzy", "updated": "2026-05-14T13:44:23+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/olre9l5/", "content": "My in-laws are 79. They move a bit slower than they were in their late 60 / early 70s, but they are still traveling the world, visiting their other grandkids on the other side of the country, and eating out every weekend. The only thing they stopped doing is skiing. I'm sure time will hit them in the next handful of years, but they've been spending a lot of money through their 70s and having a blast. Oh, they're also doing a lot of their traveling and eating out with friends the same age or slightly older.\n I do agree that time still catches up to everyone. Someone that was a young 78 can turn into an old 83 pretty quickly." }, { "id": "t1_olrg2j1", "author": "/u/Stunning-Thanks-4226", "updated": "2026-05-14T13:53:15+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/olrg2j1/", "content": "My elderly mom almost lost her entire life savings to a romance scam. I don't think people realize how fast they will spend their money in retirement. YOLO gets huge when there are only 10 years at most." }, { "id": "t1_olrgt3i", "author": "/u/Vas_Cody_Gamma", "updated": "2026-05-14T13:56:50+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/olrgt3i/", "content": "What if AI makes you healthier longer? Medical science is ever evolving." }, { "id": "t1_olrj8gy", "author": "/u/majdd2008", "updated": "2026-05-14T14:08:36+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/olrj8gy/", "content": "My biggest concern with still working and saving at 47 while I could retire... my parents and the care they could need that i could assist with and my own care in 35 to 40 years as I don't have children and never will to lean on.\n If something happens to my parents and they need me... I'll quit my job that day and head to them because I can.\n We've already downgraded income and work time throughout the year by working in a school district." }, { "id": "t1_olrjlxl", "author": "/u/Oakland-homebrewer", "updated": "2026-05-14T14:10:23+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/olrjlxl/", "content": "Many of us know relatives or friends who were sharp into their 90s, and hopefully all of us will be too.\n But what OP is saying is people at 80 or 85 or 90 aren't spending much. They're certainly not buying more "stuff" and likley not doing a lot of travel. So They can mostly live on Social security and won't need that $5M that has been growing.\n So spend more when you're 55 or 60 and don't worry about needing 4% when you're 80" }, { "id": "t1_olwu2jm", "author": "/u/snmnj", "updated": "2026-05-15T08:10:03+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/olwu2jm/", "content": "Have you priced assisted living recently? That's something you may need when you're 80. Even if you can manage, it's a quality of life issue. What about nursing or - god forbid - memory care? (This assumes you live in the US where such costs are both astronomical and almost entirely out of pocket.) The idea that you'll be comfortably pottering around in your slippers at 80, or 90, seems entirely too complacent." }, { "id": "t1_olrjmjp", "author": "/u/Old_married_JT", "updated": "2026-05-14T14:10:28+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/olrjmjp/", "content": "All four of my grandparents lived until triple digit ages. This is a huge factor in my fire number. A very small percentage of folks have that to factor but family history has to be considered." }, { "id": "t1_olrl08m", "author": "/u/Bayou_vg", "updated": "2026-05-14T14:17:07+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/olrl08m/", "content": "FIRE has been simplified to the 4% rule by too many. It’s personal finance based on personal needs.\n I use 5% SWR. I’m comfortable with the risks. I plan for 85 instead of 99 because I know family medical history. I’m CoastFi already. I’m getting married and planning for 1 kid. I’m adding 1M to my single FIRE number and maxing accounts to ensure fiancé is fine too. I’m pushing my FIRE age from 55 to 59 because it pays for future kid’s college. I’m comfortable with my choices." }, { "id": "t1_olrlpe8", "author": "/u/TwelfieSpecial", "updated": "2026-05-14T14:20:26+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/olrlpe8/", "content": "Agree with this 100%. That’s why I use the Die With Zero mode on Retiro for my fire calcs. You can compare to the traditional SWR mode, do your Monte Carlo, and it’s eye-opening how ultra conservative the SWR at 4% is." }, { "id": "t1_olrmmp5", "author": "/u/the_fresh_cucumber", "updated": "2026-05-14T14:24:48+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/olrmmp5/", "content": "This sub has an obsession with the golden wheelchair. It's all about having the high score in the final years. That's why the most advanced FIRE peoples new fad is the "end of life care" savings.\n Honestly this is just a retirement sub at this point. The RE part of FIRE is rarely practiced here.\n Half the retirement posts these days are from someone 65+ and we often get people well into their 70s coming in here to ask "am I ready to FIRE?"" }, { "id": "t1_olro6ba", "author": "/u/Honest-Run7036", "updated": "2026-05-14T14:32:06+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/olro6ba/", "content": "Also, life expectancy now is not what life expectancy will be later." }, { "id": "t1_olroj5v", "author": "/u/Enough_Price8160", "updated": "2026-05-14T14:33:47+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/olroj5v/", "content": "I am almost certain to get Alzheimer’s in my early 80’s. So the question is do I care if I have any money left at that point? It’s a philosophical question and not a practical one." }, { "id": "t1_olrpr7a", "author": "/u/Bruceshadow", "updated": "2026-05-14T14:39:37+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/olrpr7a/", "content": "Anyone using 4% for more than a general planning rule is already doing it wrong.\n As you get closer to retirement you need to actually do your own math and figure out the real number (narrow down plan), and then again right before you retire (confirm SWR and SORR), and again a few years after (confirm SWR is on track/working). These 3 points in time are the real answer, not some generic percentage." }, { "id": "t1_olrq40i", "author": "/u/ClearSkyyes", "updated": "2026-05-14T14:41:17+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/olrq40i/", "content": "Counterpoint: my mom is 80 and has almost no health issues and her mother lived into her 90s. In fact, the same is true for half of my aunts. If longevity is common in your family, you are wise to plan appropriately for your own longevity." }, { "id": "t1_olrrvs4", "author": "/u/SeaRayGuy", "updated": "2026-05-14T14:49:31+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/olrrvs4/", "content": "Fair points… my dad, who was Hercules in my eyes, was STILL hanging seamless spouting at 74 years old by and large was still “my dad” as I’d always known him.\n He turned 79 this past December, and Father Time has caught up in a big way. Nothing to add from a finance perspective, just commenting as the late 70s decline you’re talking about is very visible in my family experience, unfortunately." }, { "id": "t1_olruith", "author": "/u/Choice-Newspaper3603", "updated": "2026-05-14T15:01:46+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/olruith/", "content": "I’m in my 50s and I ran some calculations and I’ll be worth $85 million when I’m 132." }, { "id": "t1_olrxe89", "author": "/u/GoneSouth", "updated": "2026-05-14T15:15:04+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/olrxe89/", "content": "AGREE ! The 4% SWR is way too conservative and scares people into working longer to save money they're not going to need. Retire earlier with less and enjoy life." }, { "id": "t1_olrz5of", "author": "/u/Salt-Firefighter8809", "updated": "2026-05-14T15:23:02+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/olrz5of/", "content": "Most people won’t live into their 90s, hell the average person won’t live into their 80s. But it’s good to do a conservative calculation in case some of your variables are off, because true financial independence doesn’t apply when there’s no margin for error" }, { "id": "t1_ols0zzp", "author": "/u/CndnCowboy1975", "updated": "2026-05-14T15:31:17+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/ols0zzp/", "content": "I plan on retiring when I hit my number, and pulling what my portfolio earned me the previous year (less 3-4% to account for inflation). I have no dependents, so might as well live like a rich mfkr while the getting is good aka I have my health! haha" }, { "id": "t1_ols83cc", "author": "/u/rwc75", "updated": "2026-05-14T16:02:48+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/ols83cc/", "content": "Is FIRE about a spend down glide path or do you intend to leave an inheritance? I find this drastically changes your modeling and withdraw rates. With a spend down you can go from the 4% to 5-6% at least in the models i’ve run." }, { "id": "t1_ols8plt", "author": "/u/tinosa77", "updated": "2026-05-14T16:05:37+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/ols8plt/", "content": "Both of my grandmas lived till 90. Both of my grandpas died young due to cancer (smoking). Dad and mom are 74 and 72 and normal. I'm planning on 95 and anything left over will be a gift to our kids and grandkids. But damn I'm also planning to retire at 55 and be able to spend what I want even at 4%." }, { "id": "t1_olsjd4q", "author": "/u/Altruistic-Stop4634", "updated": "2026-05-14T16:53:25+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/olsjd4q/", "content": "The 4% rule is too conservative IF you have flexibility to cut your spending in a bear market. It's a big difference in, say, 1/4 fun, optional spending an 75% must pay expenses vs. 100% must pay expenses when the market drops. So, look at your must pay expenses to decide if you can retire on 4% SWR. Go have fun, knowing you can cut back if you have to. Work with your CFP to check this thinking out." }, { "id": "t1_olspncl", "author": "/u/RDT_Reader_Acct", "updated": "2026-05-14T17:21:33+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/olspncl/", "content": "I split my retirement plans into 3 periods = active retirement, passive retirement and decrepit retirement. I have also heard it called go go, slow go and no go. Your spending and your activities will obviously be different in each of these periods.\n You will not be in active retirement all the time. That is obvious but I find that many people do not have this differentiation in their plans.\n Plan accordingly. Obviously no one knows the future but make a guess based on family history and your personal health. Then add some contingency.\n PS I FIREd 7 years ago." }, { "id": "t1_olswih6", "author": "/u/KanedaSyndrome", "updated": "2026-05-14T17:52:00+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/olswih6/", "content": "trade options and FIRE on 300k usd" }, { "id": "t1_olwcucq", "author": "/u/JayNetworks", "updated": "2026-05-15T05:40:49+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/olwcucq/", "content": "And live on $15,000 per year? That seems difficult in many locations." }, { "id": "t1_olsy3s3", "author": "/u/WillingEggplant", "updated": "2026-05-14T17:58:56+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/olsy3s3/", "content": "Personally, I don't think I'll want to live much past 80. My planning runs to 85.\n Euthanasia sure does make planning to cope with the long tail decline a lot easier." }, { "id": "t1_olt9naz", "author": "/u/Over-Emu-2174", "updated": "2026-05-14T18:52:03+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/olt9naz/", "content": "I just read Die With Zero and I think you’re right. I’m planning for a 99.5% chance of not running out of money but like 25% chance of dying with 15mil. Should probably be spending more and enjoying life" }, { "id": "t1_oltalop", "author": "/u/SuitableImportance58", "updated": "2026-05-14T18:56:26+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/oltalop/", "content": "The premise of the book “die with zero”" }, { "id": "t1_olth99j", "author": "/u/Nickel4me", "updated": "2026-05-14T19:27:44+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/olth99j/", "content": "IMHO. If you reach 85 and run out of money, as long as some form of SS is around, you won’t ever go hungry. You’ll also probably be spending minimal as one would think you’d have no debt at 85.\n I would do a ramp down with your withdrawal rate. Rather than straight-lining 4% withdrawals across retirement, I’d say pull as much as 6% in the first half of expected retirement then drop down to 2% as you hit your 80s when your requirement (ie spending, travel etc) drops significantly." }, { "id": "t1_olttml6", "author": "/u/Slow-Echidna-5884", "updated": "2026-05-14T20:26:12+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/olttml6/", "content": "I agree 1000% percent by brother (or sister). People talking about having over a million bucks? Man I don't even have half of that." }, { "id": "t1_oltvigb", "author": "/u/bigwizard7", "updated": "2026-05-14T20:35:11+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/oltvigb/", "content": "Bro im on this forum at age 33 with 135k in retirement. I wish I could live on that and retire, lol." }, { "id": "t1_oludc7p", "author": "/u/Packing-Tape-Man", "updated": "2026-05-14T22:03:57+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/oludc7p/", "content": "... and then there's Captain Kirk still riding horses and living his best life at 95." }, { "id": "t1_oluduow", "author": "/u/bones_1969", "updated": "2026-05-14T22:06:41+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/oluduow/", "content": "Young kids. Young wife. Changes the math." }, { "id": "t1_olv2gpy", "author": "/u/Ecstatic_Western_189", "updated": "2026-05-15T00:27:20+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/olv2gpy/", "content": "My husband was worried when the math said our money would run out about the time I turned 98. If that’s the case, I replied, then we can take more trips and remodel the kitchen because the likelihood of living that long is so slim." }, { "id": "t1_olv2v03", "author": "/u/california_explorer", "updated": "2026-05-15T00:29:42+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/olv2v03/", "content": "My dad is 90 and going strong. I'll wait." }, { "id": "t1_olv8122", "author": "/u/mountainsNJ", "updated": "2026-05-15T01:00:44+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/olv8122/", "content": "I’m hoping we’ll have robot caregivers in the next 20-30 years. 🤖" }, { "id": "t1_olv8uog", "author": "/u/tribriguy", "updated": "2026-05-15T01:05:39+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/olv8uog/", "content": "I think that. But I think most people wildly underestimate, especially the ones that are trying to target 30s or even 40s. Not everyone…don’t get defensive with your N=1. But most of the people I see questioning whether they are ready…aren’t. As soon as you ask a few basic questions, clearly they haven’t modeled the probabilities correctly. Basic calcs available on the internet can provide rough guidelines. That’s all they can do. So much will be missing that can completely derail a FIRE that is too thin." }, { "id": "t1_olveno0", "author": "/u/delawarestorm", "updated": "2026-05-15T01:40:34+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/olveno0/", "content": "Most are way to conservative.. the Monte Carlo Sims act like youbare retiring October of 2008, or 1929, etc. If you have 2 years of cash, and willing to spend less in a down turn a 4.75-5% withdrawal rate is very safe, even at 50. Factor in social security and you're golden." }, { "id": "t1_olw46hw", "author": "/u/Chulbiski", "updated": "2026-05-15T04:32:22+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/olw46hw/", "content": "I am seeing the late 70's decline in an older man I know right now: terrifying how rapid the onset was and his life is essentially "over" but his body will likely still exist for a while." }, { "id": "t1_olw71si", "author": "/u/Cornish_spex", "updated": "2026-05-15T04:54:13+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/olw71si/", "content": "I agree with you. Several models have more realistic spending trends built in and the guardrails approach is gaining traction.\n Everyone parrots the 4% rule but most haven’t read the study behind it. Even the author commented that it is too conservative and 4.7% is more reasonable. It also still implies that 50% is in bonds which most people pursuing FIRE today don’t intend to do. Even the typical spreadsheets people use will show how much money you’d have with the 4% rule and it’s always way more in real terms than you started with.\n I stopped working regularly at about 35 and totally retired at 40 with an aggressive but sustainable portfolio with safe investments to cover needs and aggressive for growth and I have gotten to the point where I just watch my net worth. I did all the spreadsheets before retirement and obsessed about it, but after you retire all that goes away when you realize you’re totally fine compared to what the calculators say. Of course the market has been crazy recently but in any economy and every back test I will be fine using guardrails and my portfolio isn’t even that big." }, { "id": "t1_olwj6ra", "author": "/u/SlayBoredom", "updated": "2026-05-15T06:33:52+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/olwj6ra/", "content": "I agree with you, yet I would never want to be in the situation of realizing: "sh*t, I RE too early and now I have to look for a job at age 63 and after 5 years of retirement"\n But there isn't only this risk. THe risk you describe is the opportunic cost of working TOO LONG, which, if you try to put it in numbers must be worth a fortune (fortune of missed RE, health (mental and physical), etc.)\n so I wondered, how can you mitigate this risk? The answer for me is easy: Barista FIRE.\n keep a foot "in", but have way more work life balance than the average human. Also that way you don't have the risk of a boreout, of being RE alone and no friends have time for you, etc.\n if you regret, you just work 10% more or less." }, { "id": "t1_olwti0i", "author": "/u/TheRealMacresco", "updated": "2026-05-15T08:04:47+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/olwti0i/", "content": "You're talking as if FIRE is saving up only and nothing else. FIRE is a lifestyle that makes you think twice about purchases, mainly to prevent the stupid and impulsive ones. Only buying stuff you need. It also says to not be frugal on experiences. Take your family out. Keep a portion of your income/wealth aside for that. Stick to your savings plan but don't live like a shut-in just to achieve a big bank account. Live a life but don't give in to pointless consumerism." }, { "id": "t1_olxd7nl", "author": "/u/QuietNecessary2421", "updated": "2026-05-15T10:52:16+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/olxd7nl/", "content": "[ Removed by Reddit ]" }, { "id": "t1_olxlbpj", "author": "/u/DarkAngela12", "updated": "2026-05-15T11:46:25+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/olxlbpj/", "content": "My grandmother died when she was mid-90s from (basically) complications of being extremely obese. I am middle aged and am under 130 lbs; she was over 200 at my age. So I suspect I'm in for the long haul....." }, { "id": "t1_olxt0hu", "author": "/u/Ok_Caterpillar_8259", "updated": "2026-05-15T12:32:28+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/olxt0hu/", "content": "My 88 year old neighbors didn’t have a budget for cell phones when they retired." }, { "id": "t1_olyejzm", "author": "/u/paerius", "updated": "2026-05-15T14:23:54+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/olyejzm/", "content": "Most people seem to think that you won't have higher medical costs when you're 80 compared to 30 either." }, { "id": "t1_olyluyc", "author": "/u/kitkat-915", "updated": "2026-05-15T14:58:02+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/olyluyc/", "content": "Something to keep in mind, and I'm also curious as to what you've found in your sample size, is that women tend to live longer than men, by about 5 years as of recent data:\n\n- Males: 76.5 years\n- Females: 81.4 years" }, { "id": "t1_olyv8vq", "author": "/u/burnbabyburn11", "updated": "2026-05-15T15:41:12+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/olyv8vq/", "content": "There are a lot of people who think they’re fine and are absolutely not, too. Basically if you’re at median or below, you’re fucked and can’t retire realistically. The median by age:\n Under 35: (\\$18,000) 35 to 44: (\\$45,000) 45 to 54: (\\$115,000) 55 to 64: (\\$185,000) 65 to 74: (\\$200,000)" }, { "id": "t1_om16w7x", "author": "/u/gizmole", "updated": "2026-05-15T22:28:27+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/om16w7x/", "content": "Well, blame the government, corporations, and the top 1%. They've done everything possible to make people fear retirement when you have no more pensions, bad fiscal policies, threats to social security, and out-of-control healthcare costs. Also, the finance industry where they're more out to steal your wealth than help you, unless you're in the top 1%. It's also harder when you're single and have no family support system when shit hits the fan." }, { "id": "t1_om1psff", "author": "/u/sxyvirgo", "updated": "2026-05-16T00:20:15+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/om1psff/", "content": "Worse than being healthy at 95 is being UNhealthy at 75 and having to get through 10 or 20 years of high medical bills or LTC (nursing home care) that has to get paid for somehow or you end up in a warehouse.\n Yeah, you're not spending on vacations at that point but you WILL have expenses of the not fun variety." }, { "id": "t1_om1xy5q", "author": "/u/top-potatoad", "updated": "2026-05-16T01:11:17+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/om1xy5q/", "content": "My Dad was relatively wealthy and physically very healthy. He got CTE early and is now pretty advanced. His care is 12k a month. It’s gonna go way up as this progresses further. He has the money thank god. There won’t be much left if any but thank god I don’t have to pay it." }, { "id": "t1_om2htme", "author": "/u/BikesOrBeans", "updated": "2026-05-16T03:19:36+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/om2htme/", "content": "I have kids and I do not want to underestimate and leave them feeling like they need to support me. I think if I was childless I would take more risk." }, { "id": "t1_om3m9pd", "author": "/u/Physical_Plane_4170", "updated": "2026-05-16T08:55:27+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/om3m9pd/", "content": "I was going to retire at a million. Then three. Then five. Now ten, for sure." }, { "id": "t1_om7jcvm", "author": "/u/TeeDeeTeeEcks", "updated": "2026-05-16T22:34:18+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/om7jcvm/", "content": "Need at least twelve bro" }, { "id": "t1_om4jwlz", "author": "/u/Remmy2023", "updated": "2026-05-16T13:09:55+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/om4jwlz/", "content": "The reason I come here is because I won’t live long. Seeking to FIRE at 55 because my relatives didn’t live past 65. What keeps me from retiring now? My wife. Her relatives live to 95." }, { "id": "t1_om77u19", "author": "/u/PapiLondres", "updated": "2026-05-16T21:28:11+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/om77u19/", "content": "Don’t know why people won’t spend the capital , spend spend spend …" }, { "id": "t1_om7d7z0", "author": "/u/NoSafe2978", "updated": "2026-05-16T21:58:29+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/om7d7z0/", "content": "I personally believe that there will be enormous medical advancements coming soon. I want to be able to afford those and hopefully live well over 100" }, { "id": "t1_om854gd", "author": "/u/Unfair_Mechanic_7305", "updated": "2026-05-17T00:46:26+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/om854gd/", "content": "I don’t disagree but Another point is that you can dial back to ensure you don’t run out of money. By being smart and making solid choices like delaying SS and having no debt you can dial back when you are down to the 1/4 bottom of your savings. I don’t think running out of money is that big of an issue for a well planned retirement. It is like when we were kids and worried about the sun burning out or the dangers of quicksand. The fear is much greater than the reality." }, { "id": "t1_omao85n", "author": "/u/species5618w", "updated": "2026-05-17T12:31:42+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/omao85n/", "content": "But it makes sure that your kids or your kids' kids won't miss out the best years of their lives. They can probably retire in their 20s. 😃" }, { "id": "t1_omax0qc", "author": "/u/AvidVenturest", "updated": "2026-05-17T13:22:36+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/omax0qc/", "content": "Where is the math wrong exactly? Because I think I missed it." }, { "id": "t1_omdxttt", "author": "/u/Sad-Maize-6625", "updated": "2026-05-17T22:51:44+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/omdxttt/", "content": "I’ve met too many who retired at 50 and had to go back to work at 80. So yeah, I’d rather err on the side that saves too much and leave money for my kids than run out around 80 and have to beg for a job to live or burden my kids." }, { "id": "t1_omfmqyr", "author": "/u/Strazdas1", "updated": "2026-05-18T05:42:26+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/omfmqyr/", "content": "Im going to need those money when im 70, suffering from dementia and have to be put into high security mental institution, just like all the men in my family for 3 generations straight." }, { "id": "t1_omhslyw", "author": "/u/cottoncupcakexo", "updated": "2026-05-18T14:53:27+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/omhslyw/", "content": "This is genuinely something more people in this community need to hear because the whole point of FIRE is to actually live your life not just optimize a spreadsheet until you die. The healthiest person in the cemetery is still in the cemetery." }, { "id": "t1_omiyfgp", "author": "/u/Difficult-Gazelle-25", "updated": "2026-05-18T18:13:45+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/omiyfgp/", "content": "Main problem might be that since you spread it over so many years, the increased take out does not result in a materially higher living standard as it will only give you like 20% more to live for each year. And that is not worth it given the stress it might cause and that you leave the kids (or charity) with 0" }, { "id": "t1_omjc99b", "author": "/u/Original-Locksmith58", "updated": "2026-05-18T19:24:42+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/omjc99b/", "content": "I would rather overshoot it and have money for my kids than undershoot it and suffer as an elderly person or indebt my kids." }, { "id": "t1_omkq25m", "author": "/u/DrDissonance4", "updated": "2026-05-18T23:40:19+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/omkq25m/", "content": ""Tell me how long you will live and I will give you the perfect plan."" }, { "id": "t1_omv9f5t", "author": "/u/parthkafanta", "updated": "2026-05-20T14:10:36+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/omv9f5t/", "content": "You’re right that the math often gets treated like gospel when it’s really just a guideline. The 4% rule was built on historical averages, not on the reality of individual lives. If health declines in the late 70s, then maximizing enjoyment earlier matters more than squeezing every fraction of a percent out of withdrawals." }, { "id": "t1_omwfqqc", "author": "/u/mtg6839", "updated": "2026-05-20T17:19:26+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/omwfqqc/", "content": "gotta look at your own family history. i had 2 grandparents live to be 92-93, and both my parents (72 and 73) are vital and very healthy for their age. they will both probably live into their late 80s or maybe even early 90s.\n to plan you have to know your true attitudes about monthly burn. most people aren't honest enough with themselves about burn and factoring in enough inflation. just my 2c." }, { "id": "t1_omyvf7y", "author": "/u/silly_bet_3454", "updated": "2026-05-21T00:44:09+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/omyvf7y/", "content": "It's never been a question of spending habits but always been a question about earning habits. The big question I see people reckoning with, myself included, is "I'm in my 30s/40s with a bunch of money, do I keep working or not?" The trouble is you might be able to afford to go the rest of your life without working easily, but you can't be totally sure. You can always work 5-10 more years to give yourself a ton more security.\n The worry about running out of money doesn't derive really from "lifestyle" it's more like what if the market collapses or I end up with a serious medical condition. These are like "tail" events or chance events which will entirely upend the financial picture, and in these scenarios working the extra years could pay off.\n I have like zero concern about "taking a trip" or spending a couple extra % one year, just numbers wise I know it won't ever matter. On the flip side, I don't even worry about the spending because I don't even desire to spend more. I have a lifestyle, I like to spend *some*, but the spending is already factored into the equation. Idk why people would spend their lives agonizing over some purchase, yeah of course if you care so much just spend the money. I already bought all the random crap I want, Idk what I would spend on. I've done the traveling and what not. Short of buying a home in VHCOL for like 3-5 mil which I have no intention of doing or desire really, I don't think the little splurge spending is really what's holding anyone back." }, { "id": "t1_omywwaf", "author": "/u/garoodah", "updated": "2026-05-21T00:52:28+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/omywwaf/", "content": "I make comments about longevity from time to time and it’s a reality you need to face about your genetics and family history. Like if you’re seeing signs you might be falling into something you have a predisposition for then you need to account for that in your life and how you spend your time." }, { "id": "t1_omzydav", "author": "/u/Ok_Prune_1731", "updated": "2026-05-21T04:35:32+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tcjt9h/i_think_most_fire_math_is_wrong/omzydav/", "content": "Yeah im pretty frugal as is, I dont expect that to change in my 60s, 70s, and 80s. So my expenses will go down not up by a large amount.\n I plan to aggressively spend in my 50s and 60s, then after that chill in my house. My biggest expense at that point will be the 150 dollar door dash order I get delivered from taco bell.\n As a black male im not particularly worried about living super long, and if i do either WW3 will kill me anyway or society will progress enough that a 90+ year old black men will be taken care of by society. Of course i dont plan to blow all of my money in my old age just saying on the off chance I make it to 90+ im not stressed about it." } ] }, { "source": "r/Fire top month", "id": "t3_1trlmzd", "title": "You can't just 'go back to work' after you FIRE.", "author": "/u/Zone2OTQ", "updated": "2026-05-30T01:14:34+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/", "content": "I see so many comments saying to just pull the trigger if you think you're probably safe. While you can absolutely cut expenses in down market, you can't get your old job back if its been more than a few years.\n When you FIRE, you're typically leaving at your peak earning potential. I'd also guess the majority of people here will be earning pretty good money at that time. 1 more year translates to another $XXX,XXX dollars today and years of it being invested and growing. If you are making $250k, that could easily increase your accounts by $500k with market time over the following decade.\n Let's consider the alternative, you're on the fence and quit. 10 years pass of below average (not terrible, just not great) market returns while you've been doing all your bucket list items you don't want to put off until you're too old. That $2 million starting amount is now only $1.5 million. You cut discretionary spending a few years back, but the number just isn't going back up.\n So you look for a job to earn a little extra money to get back on track. Now this is highly dependent on your individual career. There are a few cases that might be ok here. If you were in sales, bartending or another job that doesn't change too much, then good for you. However, lets consider some more common jobs in this community. Since I don't know what 2036 will look like, let's look back 10 years instead to someone who retired in 2016. I'm also assuming that since you retired, there was no reason to keep attending conferences, doing bootcamps, or keeping up with industry skills.\n Any kind of IT/SWE is completely screwed. Imagine hiring a senior/staff level role who's only experience with AI is what they heard on the news. Finance has missed the last decade of market irrationality. Management types would be coming back with no experience on WFH/hybrid work. Medical/legal/engineers have all had their licenses expire by this point. I'm sure there's tons of examples, I just don't have the experience to know them.\n So maybe you won't be coming back to your top level role, but you have experience for a level down and can learn right? Well no, why would a company want to invest in developing a 55 year old who will leave once they've earned enough to go back to retirement? With parents coming back into the workforce after kids are in school, they'll probably be staying for a while. FIRE types are going to be older and stick out.\n What jobs are available? Well not much. You're used to being treated with respect. You have confidence and know your worth. That's fine when you have the skills the company needs, but you don't now. You just have that level of expectation. How are you going to feel when a fresh grad 23 year old tears down your ideas (because they're 10 years outdated) and the boss agrees with them? The reality is you should expect a low wage job that aggressively controls you because you have no skills, but don't tolerate being treated like someone without skills.\n Realistically, I'd expect the former VP of 2016 BS to be making under $50k today if they can even find a job. That means its 10 years of miserable work to make that $500k needed to get back on track. Alternatively, you could have worked 1 more year instead.\n Pretty confident isn't good enough, you need to be >99% sure including your ability to adjust discretionary spending. The consequences of under saving are high. Again, there are exceptions and careers that you can walk back into. It's just not the norm. The linkedin recruiter messages aren't job offers. The job offers you have today won't be there in 3 years, much less 10. Sure you might die tomorrow, but you probably won't. You might think you hate your job, but at least you're probably respected there. There are much worse jobs out there. After a few 'one more years', it will go from 'pretty sure we'll make it' to 'I need to find a way to blow another $100k every year on fun'.\n submitted by /u/Zone2OTQ\n [link] [comments]", "contentHtml": "

I see so many comments saying to just pull the trigger if you think you're probably safe. While you can absolutely cut expenses in down market, you can't get your old job back if its been more than a few years.

When you FIRE, you're typically leaving at your peak earning potential. I'd also guess the majority of people here will be earning pretty good money at that time. 1 more year translates to another $XXX,XXX dollars today and years of it being invested and growing. If you are making $250k, that could easily increase your accounts by $500k with market time over the following decade.

Let's consider the alternative, you're on the fence and quit. 10 years pass of below average (not terrible, just not great) market returns while you've been doing all your bucket list items you don't want to put off until you're too old. That $2 million starting amount is now only $1.5 million. You cut discretionary spending a few years back, but the number just isn't going back up.

So you look for a job to earn a little extra money to get back on track. Now this is highly dependent on your individual career. There are a few cases that might be ok here. If you were in sales, bartending or another job that doesn't change too much, then good for you. However, lets consider some more common jobs in this community. Since I don't know what 2036 will look like, let's look back 10 years instead to someone who retired in 2016. I'm also assuming that since you retired, there was no reason to keep attending conferences, doing bootcamps, or keeping up with industry skills.

Any kind of IT/SWE is completely screwed. Imagine hiring a senior/staff level role who's only experience with AI is what they heard on the news. Finance has missed the last decade of market irrationality. Management types would be coming back with no experience on WFH/hybrid work. Medical/legal/engineers have all had their licenses expire by this point. I'm sure there's tons of examples, I just don't have the experience to know them.

So maybe you won't be coming back to your top level role, but you have experience for a level down and can learn right? Well no, why would a company want to invest in developing a 55 year old who will leave once they've earned enough to go back to retirement? With parents coming back into the workforce after kids are in school, they'll probably be staying for a while. FIRE types are going to be older and stick out.

What jobs are available? Well not much. You're used to being treated with respect. You have confidence and know your worth. That's fine when you have the skills the company needs, but you don't now. You just have that level of expectation. How are you going to feel when a fresh grad 23 year old tears down your ideas (because they're 10 years outdated) and the boss agrees with them? The reality is you should expect a low wage job that aggressively controls you because you have no skills, but don't tolerate being treated like someone without skills.

Realistically, I'd expect the former VP of 2016 BS to be making under $50k today if they can even find a job. That means its 10 years of miserable work to make that $500k needed to get back on track. Alternatively, you could have worked 1 more year instead.

Pretty confident isn't good enough, you need to be >99% sure including your ability to adjust discretionary spending. The consequences of under saving are high. Again, there are exceptions and careers that you can walk back into. It's just not the norm. The linkedin recruiter messages aren't job offers. The job offers you have today won't be there in 3 years, much less 10. Sure you might die tomorrow, but you probably won't. You might think you hate your job, but at least you're probably respected there. There are much worse jobs out there. After a few 'one more years', it will go from 'pretty sure we'll make it' to 'I need to find a way to blow another $100k every year on fun'.

submitted by /u/Zone2OTQ
[link] [comments]", "comments": [ { "id": "t1_oookbxy", "author": "/u/aguilasolige", "updated": "2026-05-30T01:23:14+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/oookbxy/", "content": "I kind agree with you, I'd rather work another year than go back to work, I'm in tech and any gap in your resume right now looks pretty bad, tech market is rough right now. Also I don't wanna go bakc to a low paying job when another year or 2 in a high paying job will do." }, { "id": "t1_ooopo3r", "author": "/u/nommabelle", "updated": "2026-05-30T01:55:06+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/ooopo3r/", "content": "yeah definitely agree. its easier to find a job when you have one, its easier to get high comp, signon bonuses, no annual bonus impact, etc" }, { "id": "t1_oooo1oo", "author": "/u/Future-Run-8601", "updated": "2026-05-30T01:45:31+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/oooo1oo/", "content": "Yep, especially for someone going for fire. If you’re already planning on retiring early, it’s hard to not consider OMYing once or twice to go from 25x to 30x." }, { "id": "t1_ooq7ueb", "author": "/u/Dos-Commas", "updated": "2026-05-30T08:37:55+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/ooq7ueb/", "content": "Tech and AI are moving extremely fast. In 5-10 years even part time jobs and gigs like fast food, Uber and food delivery will be largely replacement by automation (it's already being tested right now). You can't guarantee to even find a minimum job during a recession because there will be plenty of human competition sue to mass layoffs while entry jobs are being phased out.\n A lot of the "just find a job" and "4% Rule will work forever" people have their head in the sand." }, { "id": "t1_oorjz7d", "author": "/u/That1one1dude1", "updated": "2026-05-30T14:11:50+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/oorjz7d/", "content": "I feel like I heard the same thing 5-10 years ago.\n It was in the testing phase back then too" }, { "id": "t1_oos7t3j", "author": "/u/aguilasolige", "updated": "2026-05-30T16:10:37+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/oos7t3j/", "content": "True but there's no denying the tech is improving and business owners use any excuse possible to cut jobs and save on expenses even if the tech is not god enough yet." }, { "id": "t1_ooshhzh", "author": "/u/General-Amount-5577", "updated": "2026-05-30T16:57:28+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/ooshhzh/", "content": "Yeah I doubt that. Maybe for tech but not for healthcare careers." }, { "id": "t1_op47jm5", "author": "/u/bomboque", "updated": "2026-06-01T12:33:07+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/op47jm5/", "content": "Your premise is flawed. The reason tech has so much to spend on AI is because consumers spend so much on tech. If AI displaces paying jobs to the extent you predict and salaries dry up then there will be nobody with disposable income to spend on tech. Ultimately there must be some mechanism to keep money flowing to consumers since they are ones buying everything. Right now that mechanism is private companies paying salaries. In the future maybe AI does all the work while the goverment taxes that production and pays everyone a universal basic income. I don't see how things devolve into the dystopian hellscape you allude to without massive civil unrest or all out class warfare which seems very unlikely to me." }, { "id": "t1_ooqwfva", "author": "/u/rxtz30", "updated": "2026-05-30T11:56:31+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/ooqwfva/", "content": "This is why you NEVER burn a bridge no matter how awful someone is. Believe me(management cyber), If you are a solid employee and they know your story…they will hire you back. Might not be for same pay (F HR/Comp)." }, { "id": "t1_ooriom9", "author": "/u/aguilasolige", "updated": "2026-05-30T14:05:05+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/ooriom9/", "content": "I agree but sometimes your old manager moves on too and you don't have any moat anymore" }, { "id": "t1_oos8e0x", "author": "/u/Powerful_Road1924", "updated": "2026-05-30T16:13:30+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/oos8e0x/", "content": "I work in insurance analytics, and OP is so right. If I think about what 2016 was like... wow . I could not step back in today like I left in 2016." }, { "id": "t1_oowmk1h", "author": "/u/TrollTollCollector", "updated": "2026-05-31T07:55:46+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/oowmk1h/", "content": "What will you do when in a year, the job market still looks bad? Sounds like an easy excuse to keep moving the goalposts." }, { "id": "t1_op72p7q", "author": "/u/hysys_whisperer", "updated": "2026-06-01T20:47:47+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/op72p7q/", "content": "Te h today is about like being a petroleum engineer in 2013. The money is fantastic and it has been for some years, but looking ahead the writing is on the wall that it isn't going to stay that way.\n Continuing to work until 2015 when you get laid off with a severance package makes sure you aren't looking for a job in 2018 when there are none.\n When you're working in "THE hot field," you have to take advantage while you can. Nothing cures high prices like high prices, and that goes for labor prices too.\n That's a bit anachronistic for career paths NOT in their boom though." }, { "id": "t1_ooojmux", "author": "/u/PracticalBug3407", "updated": "2026-05-30T01:19:04+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/ooojmux/", "content": "Good stuff. We need more posts that comes from your perspective. Recent market highes have clouded people's judgement." }, { "id": "t1_ooomhf7", "author": "/u/boringexplanation", "updated": "2026-05-30T01:36:09+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/ooomhf7/", "content": "Just like a lot of things pre-Covid and post-Covid. Expectations have fundamentally shifted.\n I’ve been in the stock market since the 90s but who knows - maybe this time it really is true that the US market will never crash. So many of the background variables have changed since 2009." }, { "id": "t1_ooopl2y", "author": "/u/chcampb", "updated": "2026-05-30T01:54:36+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/ooopl2y/", "content": "It'll never crash in nominal terms at least..." }, { "id": "t1_oor71cp", "author": "/u/RICO_the_GOP", "updated": "2026-05-30T13:01:14+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/oor71cp/", "content": "We are in a fundamentally different economy. Markets crashed because the underlying values crashed. Half the underlying value of tech stocks is other tech stocks that have their valuation based on an endless cycle of reinvesting tech stocks. At this point if there is a "crash" the government will print its way out which will drive dollar values higher. The dollar will be worth less but the powers that be wont take the loss themselves. They will silently tax the rest of the world and prior US debt holders.\n Until people stop buying our debt and holding dollars the music will likely continue. Right now the rate limiting step might just be power fueling expansion in the tech sector." }, { "id": "t1_oorus73", "author": "/u/boringexplanation", "updated": "2026-05-30T15:06:23+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/oorus73/", "content": "Same. How the Fed operates is just so fundamentally different than before. 2020 should’ve been a worse crash than 2009 but we just created 40% new money virtually overnight to stop one." }, { "id": "t1_ooonwr3", "author": "/u/smithnugget", "updated": "2026-05-30T01:44:42+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/ooonwr3/", "content": "I agree about the market being unhistorically good. But also I've never heard of one single person who fired and ran out of money or even who was at risk of running out of money. But I've heard 1000 stories of people who ended up with way more money then they needed." }, { "id": "t1_ooopoj3", "author": "/u/Ok-Analysis8462", "updated": "2026-05-30T01:55:11+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/ooopoj3/", "content": "That’s because markets have been so un historically good. It’s hard to run out of money when the market goes up 15-20% per year. Even aggressive withdrawal rates would have been safe the past 15 years." }, { "id": "t1_ooopxh1", "author": "/u/smithnugget", "updated": "2026-05-30T01:56:39+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/ooopxh1/", "content": "And even people who retired at the start of the great depression would have been fine with 25x annual expenses" }, { "id": "t1_ooosrrs", "author": "/u/smoosh33", "updated": "2026-05-30T02:13:48+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/ooosrrs/", "content": "My dad retired at the end of 2006 and has been fine ever since. The first couple years probably weren't great but he has more money today than he would ever be able to spend because he just stuck to his plan. The retirees that get crushed in a down market are the ones that panic sell, go to cash, and then miss the recovery." }, { "id": "t1_ooozu0b", "author": "/u/alpacaMyToothbrush", "updated": "2026-05-30T02:56:32+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/ooozu0b/", "content": "I really, really wish people that treated the 4% rule as some sort of infallible guarantee would acknowledge that past results != future returns. Yes, the 4% rule usually worked out [in the only major industrial economy still standing after two world wars]. The US really did have an absolutely phenomenal run of good luck in the 20th century. If you want to see what SWR would have been elsewhere? It was roughly ~ 3% , and that's even after excluding many of the axis powers that were bombed to rubble.\n I'm not saying you should use a 3% SWR. I'm saying you should have plenty of cushion in your retirement budget, and use a flexible withdrawal method like CPW, VPW or CAPE. Just understand the sacrifice required if you happen to retire during a time of stagflation." }, { "id": "t1_oopwdab", "author": "/u/JackZLCC", "updated": "2026-05-30T06:58:44+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/oopwdab/", "content": "Even when people use numbers like 8% average annual returns, I don't think most of them believe it. They think deep down that 15-20% is normal and expected (it's not.) And they don't understand how painful it will be when we get a big crash and they see their pile of money shrink drastically.\n The things that many Americans take as normal, and then complain when they change, are unrealistic. Obscene government manipulation to force stock markets up over the past 17 years is not normal - and it's coming with a huge cost: Basically mortgaging the future of humanity to make sure US stocks don't fall in nominal terms.\n Another example I see is when people in the US complain that you used to be able to support a family with the husband working a blue collar job, the wife staying home with 3-5 kids, 2 cars in the driveway, and owning a house with a manageable mortgage. Yes, this was possible for a few decades in the most powerful country in the world that has just won the biggest war in history without suffering any destruction (other than the veterans who fought) and emerged with the unquestioned global reserve currency. And oh yeah, that country was blessed with incredible natural resource wealth and a natural geographic defense, making it nearly impossible to attack.\n And even then, this kind of economic ease for the average family was only able to last a few short decades. Yet people complain about how wrong it is that both parents have to work now, and it was never like that before. I argue the opposite: it was a massive anomaly when that situation existed, and there's no reason for us to view it as the norm, which has now been destroyed. We have merely reverted toward a modern version of the mean.\n "One more year" syndrome is good for many people, even though we see so many people trashing it here. The past 17 years haven't been normal. And if it continues that way, the foundation of society will continue to rot until no amount of manipulation will be able to prevent total collapse. In the end, fiscal responsibility, at the individual and global level, still matter. A lot." }, { "id": "t1_ooqqcg5", "author": "/u/noluckatall", "updated": "2026-05-30T11:14:19+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/ooqqcg5/", "content": "Yes, because the US emerged from WW2 as the only intact major economy, and so our stock market totally recovered. How would your scenario have worked out in just about any other country? Do you think that the US and its stock market would also come out stronger from another major global conflict today?" }, { "id": "t1_ooorcrq", "author": "/u/Eli_Renfro", "updated": "2026-05-30T02:05:13+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/ooorcrq/", "content": "The 2000 retiree is really teetering on the edge, especially if they had 100% stocks.\n Here's one of the yearly updates following it:\n https://old.reddit.com/r/financialindependence/comments/1ibkxd9/swr_performance_for_people_who_retired_in_2000/" }, { "id": "t1_oootd0t", "author": "/u/smithnugget", "updated": "2026-05-30T02:17:21+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/oootd0t/", "content": "Thanks for the link! But 100% stocks isn't recommended in retirement especially using the 4% rule." }, { "id": "t1_ooouqam", "author": "/u/Eli_Renfro", "updated": "2026-05-30T02:25:36+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/ooouqam/", "content": "Plenty of posters in this sub would disagree with you, despite the evidence. I'm not one of them as I hold 30% bonds. But there's been a huge pushback against bonds throughout the FIRE communities here." }, { "id": "t1_ooov931", "author": "/u/smithnugget", "updated": "2026-05-30T02:28:45+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/ooov931/", "content": "Sure plenty choose to do 100% stocks but usually with the caveat of flexible spending or lower withdrawal rates. But it's not the recommendation for 4% rule." }, { "id": "t1_oop0x5o", "author": "/u/alpacaMyToothbrush", "updated": "2026-05-30T03:03:30+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/oop0x5o/", "content": "Thank you for this link. People need a reminder to be careful retiring during a time of high valuations, especially times that also have high inflation." }, { "id": "t1_ooopva8", "author": "/u/Common-Swing-4347", "updated": "2026-05-30T01:56:17+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/ooopva8/", "content": "Yup, you can maybe go back to work, but you can't buy your time back. It is a careful balance that each individual must make a decision on. Of course, if you like your work and make bank, then you are pretty lucky." }, { "id": "t1_oop59t6", "author": "/u/MustGoOutside", "updated": "2026-05-30T03:32:27+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/oop59t6/", "content": "Old enough to remember being in the workforce in the great recession. It was not great.\n People who are younger and held assets during the COVID crisis have some dangerous assumptions because the market bounced back hard and fast. So they assume any future storm will last a year or less.\n But it took about 5 years for the market to recover from 2008. I think unemployment actually took longer.\n If your nest egg dwindled for 5 years, could you stay retired? If you had to go back to work could you get a job in your field?" }, { "id": "t1_oor4cf2", "author": "/u/joxxer42", "updated": "2026-05-30T12:45:37+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/oor4cf2/", "content": "I would really hope that people who are serious about bailing from work would have worked severe worst case scenarios into their planning, and not just 'hey reddit says swr % of total I have, I'm good bye'.\n Maybe people who are just starting to think of this lifestyle approach are being naive in thinking the fat and happy times will last forever, but most who are seriously invested and are planning are thinking of scenarios like lost decade, heavy early crash with a prolonged recovery period, having a buffer account for SORR mitigation, spending flexibility guardrails, etc.\n At least, that's been my path from when I initially started running numbers and realized how much closer than farther away I thought I was." }, { "id": "t1_oor9ksi", "author": "/u/No-Seaworthiness-460", "updated": "2026-05-30T13:15:43+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/oor9ksi/", "content": "Agree u/MustGoOutside - I'm 57 and seen this play a few times now. Getting 'burned' during the GR created life time scars for me anyway. That's why we are so diversified across asset types AND carry no debt. I'll not forget the stomach wrenching drops from that time period with no relief in sight for months on end. Shiver!" }, { "id": "t1_oornmro", "author": "/u/Future-looker1996", "updated": "2026-05-30T14:30:32+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/oornmro/", "content": "This very situation is a balm to those of us who are older - Yes, if things go south badly, we’re nervous and we’re subject to massive age discrimination and much harder to get a job or part time work. But: we don’t have as long a time horizon and we (people who are say 55+) can reasonably expect for SS to be there. So for me, I keep in mind that while I plan to take SS at 67, I could take it earlier as a hedge against really bad downturn. It’s more challenging for people 50 and under." }, { "id": "t1_oorwgis", "author": "/u/Banned3rdTimesaCharm", "updated": "2026-05-30T15:14:43+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/oorwgis/", "content": "You mean the great recession where we recovered into the longest bull market of all time? If you retired in 2007 right before the biggest crash since the Great Depression with 2 million and lived on a strict 4% SWR, you'd have fucking almost 6 million dollars today." }, { "id": "t1_oothmp4", "author": "/u/nicolas_06", "updated": "2026-05-30T19:50:25+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/oothmp4/", "content": "With the 4% rule 2008 was no issue. Honestly In the past 50 years, there was really maybe 2 problematic years 1999 and 2000. But I would give it to you that back then you wouldn't know.\n For a longer timeline It was the end the of 60s, beginning of 70s.\n Of course if you used 6-8% and not 4% of course there would be many more cases." }, { "id": "t1_ooorzug", "author": "/u/earlyriser928", "updated": "2026-05-30T02:09:07+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/ooorzug/", "content": "Maybe for some.. but the math is the math, and the scenarios and SWRs are built to survive downturns and events. It may not be comfortable, but the scenarios and math are meant to be stress tested, especially at lower SWRs" }, { "id": "t1_ooosedb", "author": "/u/Haunting_Industry_15", "updated": "2026-05-30T02:11:33+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/ooosedb/", "content": "Funny things is exact 2 months ago, it was considered Bear market" }, { "id": "t1_ooqi429", "author": "/u/Ok_Benefit_8515", "updated": "2026-05-30T10:08:52+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/ooqi429/", "content": "Wrong" }, { "id": "t1_oookz9q", "author": "/u/Lagoon___Music", "updated": "2026-05-30T01:27:10+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/oookz9q/", "content": "I think about this a lot. For me, I've transitioned from full time roles to freelancing/consulting in the same field. While I want to fire in five years, in reality I think I will gradually work less as my savings needs slow down and never really "re" but still be "fi" until I'm decently past the goal post -- or, until I can't stand it anymore lol." }, { "id": "t1_ooomw80", "author": "/u/drytoastbongos", "updated": "2026-05-30T01:38:38+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/ooomw80/", "content": "I did this. Once I was ready to retire, my network kept trying to pull me into jobs. I just countered with half/quarter time consulting gigs, advisory positions, and similar. It keeps me connected to my industry, earns enough to cover some of my expenses, and keeps my resume full, but I'm enjoying 60-80% of the benefit of retirement. And the work I'm doing is actually, legitimately, fun and engaging. And because I'm hourly, the hours are the hours. No weekends, late nights, etc.\n If you can pull it off, it's amazing, as close as you can get to having your cake and eating it too." }, { "id": "t1_ooou2is", "author": "/u/Top-Change6607", "updated": "2026-05-30T02:21:37+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/ooou2is/", "content": "lol, just don’t make it sound like it’s easy to get a part-time consulting or advisory job" }, { "id": "t1_ooox7do", "author": "/u/drytoastbongos", "updated": "2026-05-30T02:40:21+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/ooox7do/", "content": "I've completely failed to land jobs when looking for them. But when someone tried to recruit me for a full time position, and I said no, but maybe part time? Then I've had pretty good luck. I'm in year 4 now, and I've varied from 60% to 25% time.\n The thing is I never would have thought I could get them to agree to part time until I was willing to say no to full time. In all cases these were people I knew and had worked with previously though." }, { "id": "t1_oopevlb", "author": "/u/Notyit", "updated": "2026-05-30T04:39:47+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/oopevlb/", "content": "Yep only super connected people before hand or great techicnalost can do that" }, { "id": "t1_ooqj5g9", "author": "/u/Chazzer74", "updated": "2026-05-30T10:17:34+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/ooqj5g9/", "content": "Yes and that’s why people should be working towards being super connected and/or technically exceptional." }, { "id": "t1_ooq9657", "author": "/u/marheena", "updated": "2026-05-30T08:49:46+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/ooq9657/", "content": "Depends on the industry. Lots of jobs are willing to hire consultants and part-timers because they pay less in benefits." }, { "id": "t1_ooosklz", "author": "/u/DangerousPurpose5661", "updated": "2026-05-30T02:12:35+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/ooosklz/", "content": "+1, my preference is full time with break between contracts because I love to travel.\n And I have adhd so my brain has only two speed: 0% and 100%\n Works very well for me" }, { "id": "t1_oooo1ez", "author": "/u/penguinino", "updated": "2026-05-30T01:45:28+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/oooo1ez/", "content": "Also here now. Loving it, truly." }, { "id": "t1_ooov7z7", "author": "/u/duh_a_throw_away", "updated": "2026-05-30T02:28:34+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/ooov7z7/", "content": "I’ve been here for a while (years). I work 3 days a week as a consultant for a client I have history with and who loves me. Lately I’ve gotten tired of it wondering if I should try and reduce hours further or quit entirely. With the state of the world I just don’t know if I’m willing to FIRE yet." }, { "id": "t1_ooqyrjt", "author": "/u/gregaustex", "updated": "2026-05-30T12:11:26+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/ooqyrjt/", "content": "How long has it been? I did the same and it was great for years. I was also warned that the longer you’re out of full-time employment the harder this gets. You make your network, and earn your reputation in the trenches. Networks have a half-life. This proved to be true for me.\n Managed to do OK for about 10 years." }, { "id": "t1_oor09xa", "author": "/u/drytoastbongos", "updated": "2026-05-30T12:20:52+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/oor09xa/", "content": "I'm in year 4 now. I think having 1/2 or 1/4 time engagements where I work for a year or more at a company keeps me better set up than a bunch of short engagements. I'm still building network and reputation.\n There are challenges you have to be mindful of. When I'm working, I'm 100% on and focused, with minimal casual chatting and no distractions from lower priority stuff. I've found my half time productivity can feel almost as good as a full time employee because I'm forced to triage my time well to get the most important stuff done.\n Conversely, if a company has to cut workforce, consultants are always the first to go.\n The other thing I wrestle with is matching the cadence of full time employees. A lot happens when you aren't working that other day or three, and you have to be careful about taking on work that doesn't make it seem like you are always behind and needing to get caught up. For this reason, I structure my consulting assuming I will stay current on slack or email pretty much most normal business hours, and I budget an hour or two for an the random exchanges during the week." }, { "id": "t1_ooqwj0l", "author": "/u/vbnotthecity", "updated": "2026-05-30T11:57:06+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/ooqwj0l/", "content": "Would love any advice or lessons learnt on how to set yourself up for this while still working full time. This could be a separate thread altogether. Part of my thinking is that I need to build up more strategic industry knowledge which is hard in a fast moving industry while working a full time hands-on operational role." }, { "id": "t1_ooonhtg", "author": "/u/SpaceTimeMorph", "updated": "2026-05-30T01:42:13+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/ooonhtg/", "content": "This is what I’ve done and I think it’s the way. My skills are fresh, I’m still in contact with people in my industry. I have enough of a pulse on the industry I am / was in to know that I’d be hired on in house somewhere real quick.\n Maybe not at the level I was at but near enough to be meaningful.\n YMMV there." }, { "id": "t1_ooopn44", "author": "/u/TennesseeStiffLegs", "updated": "2026-05-30T01:54:56+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/ooopn44/", "content": "I think about everything OP says after reading most of the posts in this sub. I’m terrified of living until 95 years and running out of money over the decades. I’d be a terrible Walmart greeter" }, { "id": "t1_oophwl4", "author": "/u/Opening-Yesterday754", "updated": "2026-05-30T05:02:21+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/oophwl4/", "content": "In reality this is a full projection on what isn’t happening right now. I think the idea is to put work behind. Move past “FIRE”. There will always be work. The point to be content with what you have and enjoy the present instead of waiting for the future to have enjoyment." }, { "id": "t1_oop867r", "author": "/u/engr_20_5_11", "updated": "2026-05-30T03:52:04+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/oop867r/", "content": "It also keeps one engaged with the kind of thing you found meaningful enough for a career" }, { "id": "t1_oooxphj", "author": "/u/Ok_Meringue_9086", "updated": "2026-05-30T02:43:21+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/oooxphj/", "content": "This is where I’m currently at and overall it is good." }, { "id": "t1_ooprjhw", "author": "/u/pondelniholka", "updated": "2026-05-30T06:18:46+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/ooprjhw/", "content": "This is why I'm glad my salary is pretty average 😆" }, { "id": "t1_ooqp6la", "author": "/u/at614inthe614", "updated": "2026-05-30T11:05:46+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/ooqp6la/", "content": "This is mine and my spouses thought too.\n We're not irreplaceable at work, but we both believe our employers would keep us a few more years at less than full time rather than lose us altogether; my spouse because of a shortage of high-level people in his field, me moreso because of employer precedence. My field more easily lends itself to consulting.\n We can't guarantee that, so we won't raise the idea until we're also okay with just walking away." }, { "id": "t1_oori6cm", "author": "/u/Sorry-Original-9809", "updated": "2026-05-30T14:02:25+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/oori6cm/", "content": "I think this is the answer. If you’ve learned a lot over the years, contribute that back as open source software to help the community. It will keep your knowledge fresh and help the world as well." }, { "id": "t1_oorm7hu", "author": "/u/placeboski", "updated": "2026-05-30T14:23:17+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/oorm7hu/", "content": "Freelance/consulting is the way" }, { "id": "t1_oosr4y4", "author": "/u/whywhywhy4321", "updated": "2026-05-30T17:42:39+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/oosr4y4/", "content": "This is what I’ve been doing for the last 5 years. Since I’m 9 years from Medicare if it even still exists also means health insurance since I take 4-5 month gigs and then I can take cobra. I’m about to end a contract and have been telling recruiters to think of me for 1st quarter roles next year. But, Healthcare IT is filled with consultants so maybe it wouldn’t translate as well to other industries." }, { "id": "t1_ooxxnrw", "author": "/u/ingodwetryst", "updated": "2026-05-31T13:46:03+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/ooxxnrw/", "content": "Yeah I went from 80 hour weeks to "I work as much or as little as I want to". To me, that's the real freedom. I don't have to fully stop working to enjoy the FI either." }, { "id": "t1_op7bsol", "author": "/u/rrfitz", "updated": "2026-06-01T21:30:42+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/op7bsol/", "content": "How have you enjoyed going to contract work? Is it more bearable than salary FTE?" }, { "id": "t1_ooowdrz", "author": "/u/Future_Measurement42", "updated": "2026-05-30T02:35:31+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/ooowdrz/", "content": "This group should be charged Fnrn- financially nervous, retire never." }, { "id": "t1_ooqxttq", "author": "/u/SlightDogleg", "updated": "2026-05-30T12:05:28+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/ooqxttq/", "content": "JWOMY - Just Work One More Year" }, { "id": "t1_ooscplw", "author": "/u/FIREForMyNapalmEra", "updated": "2026-05-30T16:34:46+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/ooscplw/", "content": "Exactly. OP and many others in the FIRE community have a scarcity mindset. If you're smart enough to get to FIRE, you can figure out how to adapt down the road if need be." }, { "id": "t1_oozdvi0", "author": "/u/koolkween", "updated": "2026-05-31T17:58:03+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/oozdvi0/", "content": "This" }, { "id": "t1_oorcqh2", "author": "/u/Banned3rdTimesaCharm", "updated": "2026-05-30T13:33:06+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/oorcqh2/", "content": "Pure doomerism and fear mongering. The whole world is on fire if we really have 10 years of 0 market growth. Most of the high earners on this sub are part of the asset owning class, even if jobs disappear and shit hits the fan, blue chip companies will continue to grow. He cites how the job market has completely changed in the last 10 years, you know what else has completely changed in the last 10 years? The value of S&P 500. It has more than tripled in value. Your lack of AI skills is completely irrelevant if you retired 10 years ago. Your portfolio would have likely doubled or even tripled with a conservative SWR.\n The biggest corporations on earth, the ones driving the S&P 500, are massive, adaptive engines designed to extract profit regardless of workplace trends, whether it's hybrid work, AI, or whatever comes next. If you own the assets, you own the upside of those profit leaps." }, { "id": "t1_oos6du7", "author": "/u/Pixel-Pioneer3", "updated": "2026-05-30T16:03:47+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/oos6du7/", "content": "Between 2000 and 2010, the S&P was flat. At the height of the GFC, it felt the market had no bottom and trust was an all time low. I lived through those times, and it all turned out well in the end, but it was impossible to comprehend at the height of GFC that the market would triple from 2012 to 2023" }, { "id": "t1_oostilj", "author": "/u/zampyx", "updated": "2026-05-30T17:53:56+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/oostilj/", "content": "I mean OP basically said if you don't adjust expenses when you actually should and instead spend for your yolo retired life, you may need more money. The premise is stupid. 1) You don't adjust spending at the end of 10 years of shitty returns, you do it all the way until you get good ones. 2) of you know you're going to spend a lot of money on once in a lifetime bucket list stuff, you find that on top of your FIRE pot.\n It's 100% a planning problem." }, { "id": "t1_op1l4kn", "author": "/u/motleythedog", "updated": "2026-06-01T00:53:17+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/op1l4kn/", "content": "Right. If you're spending how you originally did you're doing it wrong. I fully expected- and did- adjust my spending considerably. It was a challenge at first but it became easier over time. Someday (honestly after my parents pass and I obtain a good inheritance) we will hit our international bucket list harder but for now I'm totally happy with domestic travel on a budget with international travel every other year or so.\n Another thing I did- that is part of FIRE- is to possibly pivot to something less stressful. I currently help run a B&B. It gives me about 30-40% of my monthly spending. If the right opportunity came up (ie where I could have a living situation onsite with my husband), I might consider doing this FT for a while. But back to a desk job? Never." }, { "id": "t1_op4j3ha", "author": "/u/Strazdas1", "updated": "2026-06-01T13:34:57+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/op4j3ha/", "content": "But that is OPs point. If you retire too early due to poor planning theres no way back to how things were." }, { "id": "t1_oovouva", "author": "/u/YellowstoneRecluse", "updated": "2026-05-31T03:28:52+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/oovouva/", "content": "Reddit is the most neurotic corner of the internet." }, { "id": "t1_ooya5e7", "author": "/u/qret", "updated": "2026-05-31T14:50:33+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/ooya5e7/", "content": "Right. OP's attitude is valid but also opposite of FIRE. They are basically promoting the "never enough" grind." }, { "id": "t1_ooonuug", "author": "/u/Tencenttincan", "updated": "2026-05-30T01:44:22+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/ooonuug/", "content": "The longer I am retired the less I am willing to go back to work. Adjusting expenses is much more attractive." }, { "id": "t1_op1ll2p", "author": "/u/motleythedog", "updated": "2026-06-01T00:56:06+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/op1ll2p/", "content": "I had only quit for 4 months and got an amazing offer from a former colleague. I made it a week. Once you're done, you're Done." }, { "id": "t1_op3z9q4", "author": "/u/Firefiresoon", "updated": "2026-06-01T11:42:54+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/op3z9q4/", "content": "Bingo" }, { "id": "t1_op5dnfu", "author": "/u/GlamoramaDingDong", "updated": "2026-06-01T15:58:02+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/op5dnfu/", "content": "Word." }, { "id": "t1_ooonf1d", "author": "/u/Tasty_Sun_865", "updated": "2026-05-30T01:41:46+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/ooonf1d/", "content": "Biiiiiiiig feelings, especially from people <35 with tech backgrounds and zero periods of long term unemployment inbound.\n OP - you are 100% right. Way, way too many people scream about "one year itus" and pretend like re-entry is an easy situation. My dad went from making $800k in 2007 to being functionally unemployable. Like, couldn't get a job as a gas station manager or in retail. People pretend that (the jobs they candidly look down on) are easy to get and do. They want to pretend that Barista FIRE is super easy because it isn't as academically demanding as their current jobs. They aren't ready to ask a 25 year old for permission to go to the bathroom, for schedules to change between opening and closing shifts with no notice, and for the real possibility that they just can't get the job.\n The most appropriate response to one-more-year-itus complaints is to measure twice and cut once. Needing to return to a job that likely pays annually what you earned in a month or two is just really dumb. This is a hyper luxury lifestyle - time to recognize that and act accordingly by saving for what you actually want to buy (time)." }, { "id": "t1_ooov4sp", "author": "/u/Sad-Phrase5637", "updated": "2026-05-30T02:28:02+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/ooov4sp/", "content": "All of this. Once I hit my "coastFIRE" number I figured I'd go make a change. I was burnt out in my previous career, time to go do something that I'm happier with day to day. After all, "I'm an employable experienced professional, how hard can it be?"\n It was 5 years of absolute slog to get established in a new career. All my previous industry experience: effectively worthless in my new one. All my professional network and connections: useless now. All my qualifications: either irrelevant or if they would have relevant too long out of date. Basically start all over at the bottom and work your way up.\n Everything you said about taking shit from people way younger than you hits 100% true as well. Its a major punch to your ego working alongside and for people way less qualified and capable than you are.\n I eventually came out the other side happy and established in a new career. But it was orders of magnitude more difficult than I expected it would be and I burned way more of my safety net making the change than I thought. And it worked because I was making a change to a type of work I genuinely like because that's what I wanted to do. I can't say the same if I'd had to do it because I my retirement fund was dwindling to unsustainable levels.\n Also, ageism is 100% a thing that you will deal with trying to make a career shift later in life. It was noticeable even as someone in their late 30's/early 40's. I can't imagine what it would be like in my 50's or 60's." }, { "id": "t1_oov6v35", "author": "/u/Useful_Mode787", "updated": "2026-05-31T01:39:25+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/oov6v35/", "content": "I made a career change at 48. Totally different industry, though my experience was completely transferrable. However, the new place refused to acknoweldge that it was 1:1 transferable. I lasted 3 years, enough to plumpen up my 401K. My last day was yesterday. Thankfully, at our current spend, we‘ll never run out of money and I could RE.\n Seriously, working for someone who knows less and is less qualified than you, is no joke." }, { "id": "t1_ooxm86s", "author": "/u/Sad-Phrase5637", "updated": "2026-05-31T12:40:18+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/ooxm86s/", "content": "However, the new place refused to acknoweldge that it was 1:1 transferable\n Yeah, when I said my previous experience was effectively worthless, I meant from the perspective of hiring managers in my new industry. There were tons of jobs that I applied for where I knew for a fact my experience was relevant, or even above and beyond the listed requirements (jobs that I could go down the posting and honestly say "yes absolutely, I can 100% do that" to every single aspect of the listing) that I never even heard back on. They're looking for a template, and if you don't fit that template you're automatically at the back of the line, no matter how qualified you really are." }, { "id": "t1_ooox1ft", "author": "/u/livsjollyranchers", "updated": "2026-05-30T02:39:23+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/ooox1ft/", "content": "Most my friends are middle class or straight up poor. These people who think jobs like barista or groundsman or retail are glorious must have other wealthy friends, never worked those kinds of jobs before or both.\n What's cool about my friend's groundsman job is that he never takes work home with him. He's completely able to disconnect. The downside is he has to clean up literal shit and also do heavy labor as required. People in office jobs get all sorts of hilariously misguided fantasies about non-office work." }, { "id": "t1_oop53ch", "author": "/u/Ok_Field_5701", "updated": "2026-05-30T03:31:14+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/oop53ch/", "content": "people in office jobs get all sorts of hilariously misguided fantasies about non-office work\n I tell people on reddit constantly they have no idea how good they have it working in an office. Muh “soulcrushing and meaningless work”. Grow the fuck up" }, { "id": "t1_oop6b73", "author": "/u/livsjollyranchers", "updated": "2026-05-30T03:39:27+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/oop6b73/", "content": "It still sucks often times. That I won't deny. It just could suck a lot more if I had to get my hands dirty.\n Also, even if office work were to suck just as much as hard labor, you still need to consider how much you're getting paid. It tends to be more in say tech work." }, { "id": "t1_ooqe22u", "author": "/u/GotGRR", "updated": "2026-05-30T09:33:42+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/ooqe22u/", "content": "Nothing like adding back breaking without escaping soulcrushing and meaningless." }, { "id": "t1_oorjz7g", "author": "/u/Montaigne_6823", "updated": "2026-05-30T14:11:50+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/oorjz7g/", "content": "There's people that complain about injuries from working desk jobs. Like if you can't keep from getting injured by sitting in a chair for 40 hrs a week then working any other type of job would probably paralyze you so figure out how to live with those injuries.\n And I say that as someone whose hand hurts from using the mouse. I got an ergonomic mouse and I live with it." }, { "id": "t1_oos82e8", "author": "/u/algol_lyrae", "updated": "2026-05-30T16:11:53+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/oos82e8/", "content": "Jobs with low or medium intensity movement are easily healthier than sedentary jobs. Tons of research out there on the chronic effects of sitting all day and night. If you had a job where your hand could move and stretch naturally, you probably wouldn't have hurt it. There's a balance to strike between office lackey and coal miner." }, { "id": "t1_oop5x17", "author": "/u/blorg", "updated": "2026-05-30T03:36:49+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/oop5x17/", "content": "I did these sort of jobs enough when I was younger, just summer jobs and part time through university, to know I do not want to be doing that sort of shit ever again." }, { "id": "t1_oop8010", "author": "/u/livsjollyranchers", "updated": "2026-05-30T03:50:54+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/oop8010/", "content": "Yeah, and I thought most people did, but I feel like most of my peers in tech simply never have done "tough" jobs. It kind of woke me up to just how extreme and strong privilege can be. Like wow, you never had a tough job in your whole life?" }, { "id": "t1_oos50dy", "author": "/u/Pixel-Pioneer3", "updated": "2026-05-30T15:57:06+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/oos50dy/", "content": "Ditto. I worked in my college food court (had to be an on campus job as I was an international student) while also doing classes full time. I was mentally and physically exhausted by the end of the day, but had to power through a few all nighters to turn in assignments on time. I remember making soy milk lattes for rich kids, some of which used to be in my class. The line used to be out of the door and the pressure to crank out those drinks was crazy. I have burnt my fingers a few times from all the high pressure steam from the coffee machines.\n I graduated on time with a 3.9 GPA in computer science, got a $100k job (in 2008) and realized what I do sitting at my desk is a walk in the park compared to the minimum wage job of working in a food court." }, { "id": "t1_oouv11b", "author": "/u/IamtheCarl", "updated": "2026-05-31T00:27:19+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/oouv11b/", "content": "I started in retail. I'm okay with going back to it later. My ego is not such that I can't take direction from a25 year old shift manager, and maybe help her make the work more efficient.\n Edit to add: I worked manual labor outside in all weather first. Retail is hard but still better than farming." }, { "id": "t1_oooofo4", "author": "/u/Zone2OTQ", "updated": "2026-05-30T01:47:49+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/oooofo4/", "content": "I legitimately think some of those people believe they are worth $500k for their raw intelligence and can be successful in any field." }, { "id": "t1_oop4r9u", "author": "/u/Alaharon123", "updated": "2026-05-30T03:28:59+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/oop4r9u/", "content": "Needing to return to a job that likely pays annually what you earned in a month or two\n The moment I got a sign on bonus for a big tech job that was bigger than a year's pay working retail..." }, { "id": "t1_oooq0yl", "author": "/u/Flowonbyboats", "updated": "2026-05-30T01:57:14+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/oooq0yl/", "content": "Bro what was your dad doing to make 800k in 2007. I'm guessing something to do with mortgage securities? Or some banking VP?" }, { "id": "t1_oooslw3", "author": "/u/Tasty_Sun_865", "updated": "2026-05-30T02:12:49+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/oooslw3/", "content": "some banking VP\n Let me tell you about Washington Mutual." }, { "id": "t1_oootu58", "author": "/u/BlackCat391", "updated": "2026-05-30T02:20:13+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/oootu58/", "content": "My first bank account out of college in 2008 was with WaMu 😭" }, { "id": "t1_oorkrc4", "author": "/u/WilliamMButtlickerIV", "updated": "2026-05-30T14:15:53+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/oorkrc4/", "content": "They aren't ready to ask a 25 year old for permission to go to the bathroom, for schedules to change between opening and closing shifts with no notice, and for the real possibility that they just can't get the job.\n And it feels even worse when you have a seven figure net worth." }, { "id": "t1_ooq2xj3", "author": "/u/curryslapper", "updated": "2026-05-30T07:54:39+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/ooq2xj3/", "content": "I did this and was very difficult for me to get back in\n now I basically operate as a consultant but it's basically swapping time for money..." }, { "id": "t1_ootjvad", "author": "/u/nicolas_06", "updated": "2026-05-30T20:01:53+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/ootjvad/", "content": "People that make 800K a year and are ready to retire on maybe 300K yearly expenses or something will resign themselves on downsizing their home and living on 150K for 5-10 years until the market is good again and then go to back to 300K.\n It's much harder on people that have 1.5K of social security and lost their 401K due to bad market or inflation and have to living only on social security at 75 while they have big health care bills." }, { "id": "t1_ooolsk9", "author": "/u/ShockerCheer", "updated": "2026-05-30T01:32:01+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/ooolsk9/", "content": "Clinical psychologist here. When we retire I plan for keep my license for the next decade after retirement. It would not surprise me if most medical and legal professionals do this too. It isn't super costly and I'm a nerd and love to learn anyway so continuing ed is no big deal." }, { "id": "t1_ooomvzd", "author": "/u/FireAsquared", "updated": "2026-05-30T01:38:36+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/ooomvzd/", "content": "Im in a similar boat- pharmacist and I plan to keep my license active because it’s only ~$200 every 2 years and I can find an easy part time job at any cvs or Walgreens in the country paying $60-80 an hour as long as I have a pulse and active license" }, { "id": "t1_oop0o3t", "author": "/u/Economy-Experience81", "updated": "2026-05-30T03:01:53+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/oop0o3t/", "content": "yea but those days at walgreens/cvsv suck so bad... i suppose working 1 day a week would really make one appreciate the days off tho." }, { "id": "t1_ooqkcsu", "author": "/u/Chazzer74", "updated": "2026-05-30T10:27:36+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/ooqkcsu/", "content": "I’ll push back on this a little bit on the generic side (not specifically about pharmacist work): people underestimate the likelihood of all the dominoes falling because they are correlated. Yes today you can easily find a high paying job if you have a pulse, but if there is a financial shock that craters your investment portfolio enough to force you back to work, the economy would be in a very different state and you might be competing with laid off pharmacists with no experience gaps.\n Imagine the tech guy who FIREd 5 years before the tech bubble burst in 2000. “Well I’ll just go back to work in tech” wasn’t going to work. Or the finance guy that retired in 2003… he wasn’t going to be able to get a job in late 2008 when their portfolio cratered." }, { "id": "t1_oortcub", "author": "/u/Mean_Ship4545", "updated": "2026-05-30T14:59:19+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/oortcub/", "content": "Wouldn't the guy who fired in 1995 with 25x his yearly expanses in 1995 be blessed with 5 years of extremely good return? His stock portfolio would have quadrupled before the crisis, so he's probably doing good using the rebalanced bond part of his portfolio to sustain himself through the coming decade. The worst scenario for a krach is just after retirement, not at mid point.\n Not contradicting your opinion about looking for a job when everyone is doing the same, of course. Just pointing out even better example, like a Japanese firing before the 1989 krach and facing three lost decades in a row..." }, { "id": "t1_ooosb6r", "author": "/u/PMmeHappyStraponPics", "updated": "2026-05-30T02:11:00+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/ooosb6r/", "content": "I agree.\n Except I have a JD, but I haven't practiced in 9 years at this point (different career).\n At this point, there's no way I could get a job as a lawyer. And I'm current on CLEs." }, { "id": "t1_ooom20j", "author": "/u/Zone2OTQ", "updated": "2026-05-30T01:33:35+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/ooom20j/", "content": "May I ask why you'd want to fully retire then? Why not reduce your number of clients to a suitable workload?" }, { "id": "t1_ooom8h3", "author": "/u/ShockerCheer", "updated": "2026-05-30T01:34:39+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/ooom8h3/", "content": "Because my overhead cost for my malpractice insurance, billing, reception, office etc doesn't make sense for super part time work. I currently only work Monday to Thursday as it is." }, { "id": "t1_ooonpvk", "author": "/u/MorningHelpful8389", "updated": "2026-05-30T01:43:33+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/ooonpvk/", "content": "Hey same here (adjacent field)! I think I could still make a good profit doing 1 day a week though even with billing and malpractice. Telehealth thankfully has almost no overhead" }, { "id": "t1_oooolrd", "author": "/u/ShockerCheer", "updated": "2026-05-30T01:48:47+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/oooolrd/", "content": "I can't stand telehealth. It makes me want to gouge my eyes out haha" }, { "id": "t1_ooooqm8", "author": "/u/MorningHelpful8389", "updated": "2026-05-30T01:49:35+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/ooooqm8/", "content": "Hahaha I love WFH" }, { "id": "t1_ooon86j", "author": "/u/GMVexst", "updated": "2026-05-30T01:40:37+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/ooon86j/", "content": "Yep. I agree with your post OP. And personally this is the reason as a nurse my plan is a coast FIRE where I still work a few days a month to keep everything up to date in case I need or want to come back." }, { "id": "t1_oootroc", "author": "/u/Accurate-Neck6933", "updated": "2026-05-30T02:19:48+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/oootroc/", "content": "Teacher here. Retired teachers all the time are coming back and picking up temp sub jobs and long term sub positions. They say they do it for travel money. There seems to be no shortage of work." }, { "id": "t1_oorapqg", "author": "/u/fflowley", "updated": "2026-05-30T13:21:58+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/oorapqg/", "content": "I'm in a different medical sub-specialty, I'm well into my 50's and I have thought about this a lot.\n My field is moving and developing really fast.\n I think I would have great difficulty resuming work after a 1 year hiatus. I would be behind on new drug development and have some atrophy of my general medical skills.\n I think after 2 years of full retirement it would be essentially impossible to come back to my clinical role.\n This is a major factor in my decision making regarding full retirement versus staying clinically active part time." }, { "id": "t1_oorhm3i", "author": "/u/ShockerCheer", "updated": "2026-05-30T13:59:23+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/oorhm3i/", "content": "Yeah, mental health doesn't move that fast and I would have to take more continuing ed so I don't think that is really an issue to be honest for me. I totally get it for MDs though" }, { "id": "t1_oop491k", "author": "/u/Tobiasisfunke", "updated": "2026-05-30T03:25:35+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/oop491k/", "content": "+1. I’m a lawyer, but am coastfiring as a travel content creator. It costs me about $200 per year to keep my license (and if I want to become active again, I’ll need to do a bunch of CLEs), which is totally worth it if I ever need to go back into practice." }, { "id": "t1_ooqm2eu", "author": "/u/Visible_Structure483", "updated": "2026-05-30T10:41:42+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/ooqm2eu/", "content": "my wife is doing the same. she's spinning down her practice so she can join me in RE but will keep her license active just in case. she's built up several practices already, no reason to think she can't do it again if we needed money for something." }, { "id": "t1_oorhzw7", "author": "/u/aznsk8s87", "updated": "2026-05-30T14:01:27+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/oorhzw7/", "content": "Yeah, my FIL is a retired pharmacist, but he'll cover shifts at the local mom and pop shop while people are out of town for a few days every other month or so. It isn't much but I think he bigger benefit is it gets him out of the house so he doesn't drive my MIL too crazy lol.\n I'm a doctor, I don't think I'll ever fully retire until it just isn't feasible for me to practice anymore. I'd be happy to cover hospital shifts for a few days a month or so, and the money is good enough it can help fund some big splurges like a vacation or new skis or even helping out with kids/maybe grandkids college tuition." }, { "id": "t1_oorjyy8", "author": "/u/dmama1314", "updated": "2026-05-30T14:11:48+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/oorjyy8/", "content": "As a school teacher, who will keep her license up, I’m sure I can find a job later if needed." }, { "id": "t1_oox55wx", "author": "/u/dtr96", "updated": "2026-05-31T10:39:06+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/oox55wx/", "content": "Most don't. The legal and medical subs all say the older guys literally "retire" for a year or 2 come back, work nonstop and die in the office. The way medicine and law hours eventually just become routine after 20+ years, the social identity becomes attached to most, they can't help but work." }, { "id": "t1_op5h99k", "author": "/u/Other-Importance-214", "updated": "2026-06-01T16:14:08+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/op5h99k/", "content": "Lawyer here, yes this is the way. I can keep my law license active simply by doing 15 hours of CLE each year and paying $300/year to the State Bar. When I RE the plan is to take an easy case here or there where I can earn several thousands in fees and not be inconvenienced or stressed." }, { "id": "t1_oooor5r", "author": "/u/seeyouintheyear3000", "updated": "2026-05-30T01:49:41+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/oooor5r/", "content": "Flip side is you don’t retire early and you get hit by a bus and die when you could’ve spent 10 years doing everything on your bucket list.\n The worst case scenario of having to cut back a little is not that bad. You only have one life man and you’ll never be young again." }, { "id": "t1_oop1vpm", "author": "/u/alpacaMyToothbrush", "updated": "2026-05-30T03:09:48+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/oop1vpm/", "content": "you get hit by a bus and die when you could’ve spent 10 years doing everything on your bucket list.\n I'd have zero regrets if I got 'hit by a bus', I'd be dead. What scares me is a lingering terminal diagnosis where I have a couple years of declining health to ruminate on it" }, { "id": "t1_ooq1rft", "author": "/u/ChuckTheWebster", "updated": "2026-05-30T07:44:35+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/ooq1rft/", "content": "As a cancer survivor and 37 year old retiree, THIS is why those young retired years matter" }, { "id": "t1_oopac9u", "author": "/u/TennesseeStiffLegs", "updated": "2026-05-30T04:07:02+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/oopac9u/", "content": "Absolutely agree" }, { "id": "t1_oopftt8", "author": "/u/seeyouintheyear3000", "updated": "2026-05-30T04:46:50+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/oopftt8/", "content": "I’d be deeply disappointed either way" }, { "id": "t1_ooph941", "author": "/u/alpacaMyToothbrush", "updated": "2026-05-30T04:57:26+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/ooph941/", "content": "Maybe you could haunt your metaphorical bus driver from the grave" }, { "id": "t1_oor6ivm", "author": "/u/interbingung", "updated": "2026-05-30T12:58:17+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/oor6ivm/", "content": "how ? in this situation you are dead. its not possible to feel anything when you are dead." }, { "id": "t1_oopdvl4", "author": "/u/Straight_Zucchini487", "updated": "2026-05-30T04:32:24+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/oopdvl4/", "content": "Exactly lol. It’s so interesting to me how many the original ethos behind FIRE lifestyle has become muddled over time in this sub. It was never (historically) about consumerism or hoarding enough wealth to be able to buy everything you wanted, it was originally intended to relieve the anxiety of life by de-centering consumerism/corporate capitalism and instead focusing on living an intentional life aligned with your values. I guess r/LeanFIRE sub is maybe closer to that now idk" }, { "id": "t1_oop1wbl", "author": "/u/S30", "updated": "2026-05-30T03:09:55+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/oop1wbl/", "content": "it's less tangible so most people don't realize that working another year is also a making a bet. retiring one year earlier is betting that you have the means to do so. if you lose you have to make up the difference somehow. if you win you get to claw back likely the best year of the rest of your life." }, { "id": "t1_ooufttq", "author": "/u/I_spy_wit_my_lilCIA", "updated": "2026-05-30T22:55:05+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/ooufttq/", "content": "Hear him! The guys in my field that DON'T retire early die early. This job kills you, either quickly (in flaming screaming agony) or slowly with carcinogen exposure and sleep deprivation. As soon as I can walk away, I'm walking. For every 'what if' of market crashes and spend model failures I could show you 10 car crashes and safety system failures to counter argue.\n It is a gamble, but people forget that time is worth more than money and time RIGHT NOW is worth more than your future time. Your time- the good years of your life- is what you're gambling. If I die broke but lived well, I won. After all, you can't take it with you." }, { "id": "t1_op4laf6", "author": "/u/Strazdas1", "updated": "2026-06-01T13:46:09+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/op4laf6/", "content": "The chances of getting hit by a bus is extremely small. Smaller than your portfolio failing due to SORR." }, { "id": "t1_oooo2xa", "author": "/u/Background-Quail8556", "updated": "2026-05-30T01:45:42+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/oooo2xa/", "content": "This is not what I’ve been seeing on the FIRE communities. Typically I see posts that say the person has 36 million dollars, followed by “do I have enough to retire?”\n This is obviously an exaggeration but I see people well in the upper single digit millions asking if they are safe.\n Your stance is well and good, but then the problem becomes moving the goal posts. “I have 2 million dollars. I just need 4 million dollars and I’ll retire.” “I have 4 million dollars, I just need 6 million dollars and I’ll retire.”\n And it keeps going and going and going until the person does retire and then drops dead several months later, not spending a single cent of the massive pile of wealth they never got to use.\n The way I look at it: if you have 2 million dollars, you can definitely retire. You can pretty much live in 95% of the world and comfortably withdraw $80,000/year without ever thinking of running out of money.\n It’s just that the retirement industrial complex wants people to keep saving, saving, saving because that’s how they make their 1% administrative fee.\n We are all here for a reason: we are savers and many people in the community have a hard time spending money because they are not used to doing it. The vast majority of the FIRE community will end up over saving rather than under saving. If you want to leave a legacy, this may not be a bad thing. But let’s not kid ourselves that savings is also a form of identity around here. I should know: I am one of them." }, { "id": "t1_oop1xc4", "author": "/u/Dissentient", "updated": "2026-05-30T03:10:07+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/oop1xc4/", "content": "The FIRE community has also been overrun by HENRYs who think that living on less than $100k a year is a fate worse than death while a decade ago it was more focused on frugality." }, { "id": "t1_ooqjcih", "author": "/u/Fi-Me-Away", "updated": "2026-05-30T10:19:11+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/ooqjcih/", "content": "The same people exist, but the group has fragmented.\n Those wanting to live on less then the median income tend to gravitate towards the leanFire sub. If you are a couple it's a very reasonable cap of 54k/yr on lifestyle numbers. The single cap is a bit tougher at 27k." }, { "id": "t1_oowq7qc", "author": "/u/Sen_ri", "updated": "2026-05-31T08:28:10+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/oowq7qc/", "content": "To be fair about those thresholds the higher figure is meant to encompass households with kids. So it’s actually a comparable lifestyle between a couple with kids at 54k and a single person at 27k. A couple with no kids would have a similar lifestyle in between that so ~40k." }, { "id": "t1_ooot0h2", "author": "/u/ChiefSo300", "updated": "2026-05-30T02:15:15+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/ooot0h2/", "content": "I agree with this completely. There is also a lot of paranoia about every possible case that could go wrong and it’s used as justification to keep growing the pile infinitely. Penny pinching until death because it would hurt their gains or open them up to a small amount of risk. What about the risk of missing out on opportunities? This is the much greater risk.\n We are also adaptable as humans, contrary to this post. If the market took a turn for an extended period of time or spending grew, decreasing spending is an option. Don’t buy that new car. Don’t spend 30k that year on vacations. Yes if you have to go back to work you will likely not make as much, but in this hypothetical you are retired with nearly infinite time sitting on a lot of money. Spend the time or money learning a new skill and work for a few more years." }, { "id": "t1_oor9lxq", "author": "/u/Previous_Guitar5027", "updated": "2026-05-30T13:15:54+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/oor9lxq/", "content": "I agree with you on this. I had a friend over for dinner last night and she was complaining about her boss that she hates and the job that she hates but she has to work "for health insurance." I said, surely you have a couple million dollars (she's 59). She said "nine."\n You have nine million dollars and you're 59 and you're working to have health insurance? You know that you can get your own plan for $10-$30k. Do you know you can pay that health insurance premium for 300 years with that much money?\n But she grew up poor and is enough is never going to be enough." }, { "id": "t1_oopfwkn", "author": "/u/blorg", "updated": "2026-05-30T04:47:23+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/oopfwkn/", "content": "Totally agree, there is a balance. There is some validity to OP's point but he's way over-doing it in the opposite direction.\n Remember the 4% rule is meant to cover the absolute worst case scenario, literal Great Depression level of market bad, it's what gets through any 30 year period including the Great Depression . 2 million dropping to 1.5m is not just "below average (not terrible, just not great) market returns", it's really terrible . In the median case your real balance is expected to go up , significantly. 10% nominal, 7% real, 4% withdrawal- the difference between that 4% and the actual market return compounds in your account.\n Now of course it's possible that you do have really bad returns and your balance goes down. But for it to go down is more than "below average, not terrible", you are looking at really quite terrible returns for that to happen.\n Also- 4% rule is a rule of thumb. It's not a contract. You are not locked in with no flexibility, it will be very obvious within the first few years if you have a problem with the market returns and need to adjust. In the median case, you end up with way more money after the first 10 years and are set .\n I took 5 years off at one point to travel and re-established myself in software development. It certainly cost in terms of earning, career progression and pension compounding but it took quite a bit to get back up to speed but it's not like I ended up looking for work in a gas station either. I also value having done the things I did when I could, aging hits and wow, there can be real physical impacts, exactly how this works is going to depend and if you are lucky maybe you can keep good physical fitness and health up longer, but there are very real physical changes that happen to people and impact their lifestyle, totally independent of their net worth. And this is just the "normal" aging, you can be unlucky and develop some really serious health condition. Some, you stay alive but with severe impact to your quality of life. You can die, I know people who have, people start dropping off in their 40s-50s. Another $500k doesn't necessarily help with this stuff. Like Abe Simpson said, it'll happen to you!\n The stuff OP describes around younger people being more up to date or having good ideas- that's going to happen anyway, that's life, that's getting older. The person he describes who can't accept that seems very arrogant to me, and I guess many people do end up that way, stuck in their way of thinking and just thinking they are right due to seniority. But I am older and I already see that, I mean the idea that someone 20-25 years younger than me couldn't have a good idea, couldn't be just as capable as I am- why would I think that? In many respects younger people are going to pick up new concepts faster. I know I did when I was younger, it's harder to get my head around new stuff now. So why would I be surprised someone in their 20s could have a better handle on something new? I'd expect that! Not trying to have a go but I get the impression he's younger himself and projecting? My ego just isn't that big.\n I think it does depend on what you're looking for, if you are earning $250k/year (I certainly was not) and you are looking at a target with tens of millions sort of net worth at retirement... that's one thing. And I think there is something to "stick it out" for just one or two more years if you are on that sort of money.\n Traditionally FIRE wasn't all about that sort of shit though, it was about having enough , minimalism, being content with less and being able to cover that with a relatively moderate saving.\n I do think there is validity to considering sticking it out a bit longer if you are on stupid amounts of money. Particularly if you are already FI by the numbers, I think you can sort of mentally "check out" in a way that even in the same job it can become a lot less stressful. Not that you don't care or you don't continue to do your job well. But if you already have "FU money", if you don't need the job, your internal attitude towards it can be very different and I think with such an attitude you can readjust your own view of the job and make it a lot less stressful. What are they going to do, fire you? I like my work, I think I'm good at it, but I had a lot more stress over it when I actually needed it.\n I particularly don't subscribe to the whole "BaristaFIRE" idea that you are going to leave high paid salaried knowledge work where you sit in a chair and have a lot of personal control over your work and outcomes and relax into a nice comfortable retail job... I have worked those jobs and think this is nonsense from people who have never done it. I guess it makes sense in the US context only around health insurance, anywhere else it just seems ridiculous why you'd be even semi-retired as presumably a millionaire and even consider working minimum wage retail being bossed around and with much more stress.\n This isn't to say you can't want FatFIRE or have your expectations or whatever. But if you do, that should be baked in to your number already.\n Apart from that, it does depend on the person as well and what their priorities are.\n There is a balance here between not just throwing away a high-paying job on a whim, but also not getting totally bogged down in "One More Year-itis". If you have reached your target to FIRE, whatever that is, you have the option to do it." }, { "id": "t1_ooovba2", "author": "/u/warriormonk5", "updated": "2026-05-30T02:29:06+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/ooovba2/", "content": "Yeah you are raising what i would. If you are spending 80k a year I'm going to guess a decent chunk of that is discretionary and you aren't blindly spending 80k a year going into the great depression no matter what the math says." }, { "id": "t1_ooowcdw", "author": "/u/randomgenericuserali", "updated": "2026-05-30T02:35:16+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/ooowcdw/", "content": "If RE early in US you’d need to budget half that 80k for healthcare." }, { "id": "t1_oopmmjf", "author": "/u/Aggravating-Spend-39", "updated": "2026-05-30T05:39:01+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/oopmmjf/", "content": "Completely agree with you.\n I found the OP to be pretty pointless. It doesn’t actually give any specifics / actionable advice. Sure - some people probably retire too early and are taking on a lot of risk. But conversely others probably oversave.\n In the end it is really dependent on investable assets, expenses, and the future of both which no one knows.\n I guess we should all just work till we die so we don’t run out of money before we die!" }, { "id": "t1_oosdjb3", "author": "/u/swervtek", "updated": "2026-05-30T16:38:50+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/oosdjb3/", "content": "Typically won’t see many post FIRE redditors in these subs, and I genuinely believe it’s because after they FIRE, they realize how much financial dysmorphia runs rampant. This sub (and other fire subs) is an echo chamber of over conservatism, detached from the reality of the average person." }, { "id": "t1_oorr4ak", "author": "/u/Future-looker1996", "updated": "2026-05-30T14:48:11+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/oorr4ak/", "content": "My only quibble with this is that many of us highly value discretionary spending (meaningful travel, having to travel to see loved ones, enjoying amazing concerts in another city, hiking the Alps, etc.). I’m older, I only have so much time. I live in a MCOL area and every single Retirement calculator has me at 100% success but I would really chafe at spending less than about 100K. I hope to reliably spend about 120K, and would be ecstatic to be able to spend 130-140. I expect to use a version of Vanguard Variable Withdrawal strategy and think that’s the right fit to make it last & spend what I want. Champagne problems are the kinds of problems I want." }, { "id": "t1_oooo2nb", "author": "/u/Inevitable_Train1511", "updated": "2026-05-30T01:45:40+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/oooo2nb/", "content": "I definitely appreciate your perspective. I just FIREd at 41 with $3.5m in the bank and was on the fence about it and still have a few doubts. That being said, my resting heart rate has dropped 40% and I’ve lost ten pounds so I might have died had I stayed another year or two." }, { "id": "t1_ooooqix", "author": "/u/Zone2OTQ", "updated": "2026-05-30T01:49:34+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/ooooqix/", "content": "I saw a post a few backs of someone earning $250k in their mid 30s and wanting to quit to live off like $700k. That seemed insane to me." }, { "id": "t1_oooqre4", "author": "/u/HugeDramatic", "updated": "2026-05-30T02:01:38+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/oooqre4/", "content": "Doable if you move back in with your parents and spend $25k a year." }, { "id": "t1_ooormtb", "author": "/u/Inevitable_Train1511", "updated": "2026-05-30T02:06:54+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/ooormtb/", "content": "Hard agree there." }, { "id": "t1_oooklrw", "author": "/u/andrewjpf", "updated": "2026-05-30T01:24:54+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/oooklrw/", "content": "This is something I've thought a lot about. Thankfully in my field, it's pretty reasonable to go part time or PRN which has become my goal instead of retirement when I am FI." }, { "id": "t1_oopewvv", "author": "/u/MWREE", "updated": "2026-05-30T04:40:04+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/oopewvv/", "content": "As a nurse this is my plan - to go PRN to keep my foot in the door. At my current job you have to work 6 shifts in 6 weeks and I know other places it is even less." }, { "id": "t1_oookrd4", "author": "/u/Zone2OTQ", "updated": "2026-05-30T01:25:51+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/oookrd4/", "content": "That sounds like a great way to go about it. I see so many posts about being so burned out and being just done." }, { "id": "t1_oorrze6", "author": "/u/MasterpieceKey3503", "updated": "2026-05-30T14:52:30+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/oorrze6/", "content": "Yep, I plan to transition to part time first and then PRN/once a month once I am ready just to keep my license up to date" }, { "id": "t1_ooon3op", "author": "/u/Dissentient", "updated": "2026-05-30T01:39:53+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/ooon3op/", "content": "The biggest problem with your post is the assumption that getting your old job back is the only criteria for success.\n You don't need your old income to cover your expenses. At least in my case, while my current income is more than double the median in my country, my spending would be covered by the minimum wage. And additionally, you don't even need to cover your entire spending in order to save your retirement, and there are multiple ways of getting that supplemental income that aren't a full time job." }, { "id": "t1_oooyc59", "author": "/u/EnterCake", "updated": "2026-05-30T02:47:07+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/oooyc59/", "content": "Exactly. The premise of the post is that "most people assume they'd return to a job making what they do now" but I don't actually think that's what most people think.\n Most people in this position have plans a, b, c, and d on how they'd flex their spend and their income given many scenarios.\n It seems unlikely that they'd need a $250k job to cover expenses to survive a worst case scenario for a period of time." }, { "id": "t1_ooqzkf8", "author": "/u/SlightDogleg", "updated": "2026-05-30T12:16:29+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/ooqzkf8/", "content": "There's also the reality we're all currently living in where you could lose your high paying job (layoff), the market enter a significant recession (unemployment goes way up) and not have the savings to FIRE.\n When you FIRE, two out of those three fears are gone." }, { "id": "t1_oooyy4j", "author": "/u/ApeTeam1906", "updated": "2026-05-30T02:50:53+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/oooyy4j/", "content": "Only voice of reason. Enough income to cover expenses (or part of them) is all that's required. I don't understand why someone would need to make 100 percent of the income they were making before." }, { "id": "t1_oop58hs", "author": "/u/There_is_no_selfie", "updated": "2026-05-30T03:32:11+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/oop58hs/", "content": "This is the whole thing.\n OPs basically making the argument to stay in the golden handcuffs. THATS WHERE THEY GET THEIR NAME FROM.\n Also incredibly myopic with regard to the market.\n Create additional forms of passive income WHILE YOU EARN. Beyond market returns.\n Invest in multiple businesses that have quarterly payouts, diversify into a reasonable cash flowing real estate, whatever.\n I think the concept of job=guaranteed money now is not as solid as he makes it seem. If you make a good salary you are in the crosshairs at all times." }, { "id": "t1_ooom4l0", "author": "/u/Realistic_Breathing", "updated": "2026-05-30T01:34:01+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/ooom4l0/", "content": "Yes I would also like to support OP’s point. Even wealth managers will tell you “there’s lots of time!” Meaning that you “could work” in your 50s. Unless you have good friends in your previous career, it might be tougher than you think. Then there’s the option of “working at Walmart” which is great, but be aware, if you were formally a high earner, making 20$ per hour for 10 hour shift might make you lose your mind. Especially if you want to close a gap and end up needing work 30hrs a week to new 25k per year. Not looking down on ppl at all who work these jobs, I’ve worked them, work is work and that’s a proud thing. But is that Fire ppl might have a different feeling." }, { "id": "t1_oooqk5k", "author": "/u/needcollectivewisdom", "updated": "2026-05-30T02:00:26+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/oooqk5k/", "content": "formally a high earner, making 20$ per hour for 10 hour shift might make you lose your mind\n Money aside.. the aspect people don't think about is being managed by and have to work with incompetent people when you 'take a step down' – it is another form of hell. Ask me how I know. 😑" }, { "id": "t1_oor3zen", "author": "/u/Ibanez-Jackson", "updated": "2026-05-30T12:43:29+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/oor3zen/", "content": "Well that is even the case before you took a step down" }, { "id": "t1_ooojvah", "author": "/u/dadfitness", "updated": "2026-05-30T01:20:28+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/ooojvah/", "content": "This is all good things to think about and a reason to not FIRE until you have more than enough." }, { "id": "t1_ooolb1k", "author": "/u/MIengineer", "updated": "2026-05-30T01:29:07+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/ooolb1k/", "content": "Okay but what’s more than enough? If you’ve already estimated what enough is, and it’s wrong, more than enough could be wrong, too." }, { "id": "t1_ooomsra", "author": "/u/No-Problem-4228", "updated": "2026-05-30T01:38:03+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/ooomsra/", "content": "Yes, but it will be less wrong, with more margin for error.\n It isn't binary right vs wrong" }, { "id": "t1_oooovgp", "author": "/u/MIengineer", "updated": "2026-05-30T01:50:22+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/oooovgp/", "content": "The point is all you’re doing is estimating to the degree you feel comfortable, and what your priorities and willingness to adjust are. Enough and more than enough doesn’t really mean anything. You guess, and you either wind up having to adjust or maybe even struggle, get it just right, or a crap load of unspent money. If you do “more than enough” you’re willingly trading your time and effort for what you think is peace of mind is all. Fine for some, a waste for others." }, { "id": "t1_ooopf0f", "author": "/u/No-Problem-4228", "updated": "2026-05-30T01:53:35+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/ooopf0f/", "content": "Enough and more than enough doesn’t really mean anything.\n It means a lot if you run into a bad SORR or the market stagnates\n If you do “more than enough” you’re willingly trading your time and effort for what you think is peace of mind is all.\n Yes, but what you "think" is peace of mind, is peace of mind, by definition" }, { "id": "t1_ooonxtv", "author": "/u/WritesWayTooMuch", "updated": "2026-05-30T01:44:52+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/ooonxtv/", "content": "True. But one wrong makes life difficult in old age and one makes it a little more difficult in your youth.\n And I agree with have a LITTLE More than enough. What's enough? Not sure there is a correct answer but for me I pad on enough for a market correction.\n A 100% equity portfolio can drop 10-20% with an average correction. I plan to hold an 80/20 on retirement which has an average correction of 8-12%.... so I plan to not retire til I have 12% more than I need to.\n If you plan to have a 60/40 mix, than you can plan for a 6-8% correction and plan to pad 8%>" }, { "id": "t1_oop3154", "author": "/u/alpacaMyToothbrush", "updated": "2026-05-30T03:17:24+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/oop3154/", "content": "For me it's 50x my essential expenses." }, { "id": "t1_ooqxhp7", "author": "/u/MIengineer", "updated": "2026-05-30T12:03:19+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/ooqxhp7/", "content": "I would never reach that for early retirement, so out of the question." }, { "id": "t1_oook1hv", "author": "/u/dragonflyinvest", "updated": "2026-05-30T01:21:29+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/oook1hv/", "content": "I mean you’re describing (in great detail) someone who is not ready to FIRE." }, { "id": "t1_oook925", "author": "/u/Zone2OTQ", "updated": "2026-05-30T01:22:44+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/oook925/", "content": "I'm describing someone who has 25x what they think their annual expenses are." }, { "id": "t1_ooolmox", "author": "/u/CryptoCel", "updated": "2026-05-30T01:31:02+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/ooolmox/", "content": "If after 10 years the market is down or roughly flat and your portfolio has gone from $2m to $1.5m even after appropriate bond laddering, then you suck it up and do what pretty much everyone in a down economy does, you cut expenses and see what jobs, even part time, you can get to reduce your withdrawal rate from 4% to 2%.\n But the difference between you and everyone else is that you got to spend 10 years of your prime years to check items off your bucket list with no Sunday evening anxiety. You had ten years of no impulse spending to ward off workplace tension or overpriced vacations during peak tourist season for the sake of escapism. You and everyone else in a tough market will die someday, but you were able to live truly well in those peak years and you likely still have a better portfolio than 90% of people your age." }, { "id": "t1_ooomw2y", "author": "/u/czmax", "updated": "2026-05-30T01:38:37+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/ooomw2y/", "content": "i think you missed the point that those years a “suck it up” job and lifestyle could have been avoided by “one more year”.\n and this why we see people struggle with when to pull the trigger. a cavalier attitude about just sucking it up isn’t going to resonate. instead folks, myself included, tend to overwork." }, { "id": "t1_ooootb1", "author": "/u/CryptoCel", "updated": "2026-05-30T01:50:01+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/ooootb1/", "content": "But in such a scenario where the market is essentially flat or slightly down after 10 years, how can you be so confident that "one more year" is actually going to meaningfully increase your chances of success? One more year might mean starting with $2.1m or still just $2.0m if year 1 drops by your contribution - and you're still down to say $1.7m after 10 years, you're still going to be feeling the same anxiety.\n Or you could work 5 more years and start with $2.6m and maybe at the end of 10 years you're at $3.0m so you feel okay, or you're at $5m and you think to yourself why you didn't retire so much earlier, or you're dead because the likelihood of you being dead is nearly 15x of you being broke by the time you reach 70, in which you go live SS check to SS check after an amazing life of early retirement - in case you didn't die." }, { "id": "t1_ooop7mg", "author": "/u/mypetclone", "updated": "2026-05-30T01:52:21+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/ooop7mg/", "content": "The concern is that "one more year" easily turns into "five more years" and the ability to do the things you wanted to do may have diminished. You need to be very confident (>99%? to take your number) it won't happen for this to be a fruitful perspective." }, { "id": "t1_oooo72f", "author": "/u/NinjaFenrir77", "updated": "2026-05-30T01:46:23+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/oooo72f/", "content": "The correct comparison isn’t 10 years of bucket list living vs working those 10 years. It’s working 1 year now vs the chance of working ~5 years later. I would much rather have spent only the last 9 prime years checking off bucket list items vs 10 years and now having to go back to work for multiple years.\n Edit: noting the comparison should include probabilities." }, { "id": "t1_ooov0xe", "author": "/u/HonestOtterTravel", "updated": "2026-05-30T02:27:23+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/ooov0xe/", "content": "The comparison is actually a 100% chance of working 1 year now vs a ~1% chance you need to work 5 years later." }, { "id": "t1_oooo10h", "author": "/u/rosen178", "updated": "2026-05-30T01:45:24+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/oooo10h/", "content": "Boom." }, { "id": "t1_ooom5fw", "author": "/u/shiloh88", "updated": "2026-05-30T01:34:10+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/ooom5fw/", "content": "Setting aside the fact that the market you describe is pretty terrible to draw down 25% of capital, the point of the swr is not to have the same 2m in the bank for your whole retirement, it's to have overwhelmingly good odds of not hitting zero before you die." }, { "id": "t1_ooorm5u", "author": "/u/Wooden-Broccoli-913", "updated": "2026-05-30T02:06:48+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/ooorm5u/", "content": "My wife & I are FIREing at 40 with 20x expenses. Here’s why I’m more than fine with that: 1. We have $90k in SS coming to us at 70.\n\n- Speaking of 70, we have a double digit chance of being dead by then. All SWR success rates are deflated because of this.\n\n- We both have corporate executive retiree parents who will be passing on a few million (conservatively) to us in 20-30 years.\n\n- We are FIREing in VHCOL and can easily move to LCOL if necessary to cut down expenses.\n\n- Even if we don’t move our expense target is at a Chubby level and can be cut back a ton.\n\n- The 20x pile doesn’t include $1M in home equity that we can cash out and move with.\n\n- Upon quitting my corporate job I will be getting my CFP certification which is both my passion as well as an insurance policy in case I need income. It’s easy enough to work part time as a CFP for any number of advisory firms, big or small.\n\n- The original Trinity study 4% rule failed in the 60s and 70s because of high inflation. These failures literally can’t recur because we have TIPS now. None of the FIRE calculators out there account for TIPS\n There are probably a few more reasons but I’m tired of typing this out with my thumbs…" }, { "id": "t1_ooovamz", "author": "/u/BlackCat391", "updated": "2026-05-30T02:29:00+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/ooovamz/", "content": "How do you get $90k/year in SS when you retire at 40 and have all of those zero SS earning years? Have you been hitting the income cap since you were 18?!?" }, { "id": "t1_ooovhq7", "author": "/u/Wooden-Broccoli-913", "updated": "2026-05-30T02:30:11+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/ooovhq7/", "content": "Since 25. And it’s $45k * 2 people" }, { "id": "t1_ooolis0", "author": "/u/Wi1dWitch", "updated": "2026-05-30T01:30:24+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/ooolis0/", "content": "Yeah I’m bad at math but that would be about half of what my fire number is, and my goal number is pretty conservative. That seems like it would fall well below the 3% rule." }, { "id": "t1_oooohy1", "author": "/u/smithnugget", "updated": "2026-05-30T01:48:10+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/oooohy1/", "content": "Obviously this doesn't apply to you. If anything you're way too far in the other direction." }, { "id": "t1_ooonz0g", "author": "/u/Unlikely_Ad_9861", "updated": "2026-05-30T01:45:04+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/ooonz0g/", "content": "If I'm close enough, I'm out - there are things I'd do - like spend time with my kids that is now or never. If I'm working some low-paying job at 60 because I miscalculated, I'll have a smile on my face, knowing I got that time." }, { "id": "t1_oool43g", "author": "/u/Reasonable_Box2568", "updated": "2026-05-30T01:27:57+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/oool43g/", "content": "I agree with most of what you are saying but >99% pretty much doesn’t exist for anyone below 10mil NW unless they have extremely low expenses and work way longer than needed. Anything above 90% should be suitable if there is room in the budget to decrease expenses for a few years during a bear market and pull from cash equivalents until the market recovers" }, { "id": "t1_ooolu26", "author": "/u/Zone2OTQ", "updated": "2026-05-30T01:32:16+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/ooolu26/", "content": "I'm including that reduction in the >99% goal. If your base expenses are $60k and you plan on spending $150k, there's a lot of room to adjust. I see some posts with annual spends of <$30k and wounder what on earth they do if something goes wrong." }, { "id": "t1_oooryzo", "author": "/u/IamGeoMan", "updated": "2026-05-30T02:08:58+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/oooryzo/", "content": "This has always been my silent criticism of people who hit a generally sub 1M NW and then FIRE to a LCOL SEA country. More often than not it was a vacation they had, they did some research, then pulled the trigger because they can't shake the feeling of not working a 9-5." }, { "id": "t1_oop2qfn", "author": "/u/alpacaMyToothbrush", "updated": "2026-05-30T03:15:26+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/oop2qfn/", "content": "Just a reminder that success rates over ~ 80% are meaningless . I'm not saying this as an excuse to save more or retire later, some risks money can't hedge, just to acknowledge the risk that's there and enjoy the peace while we have it." }, { "id": "t1_oopl18f", "author": "/u/validelad", "updated": "2026-05-30T05:26:19+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/oopl18f/", "content": "If you want a >99% success rate you will need so much money in relation to your expenses that there would be no point in being exposed to the stock or bond market. Just park it in a bank, even at incredibly low interest rates, you would have enough to live off it for decades with virtually no growth.\n At a certain point, you have to accept some level of risk. Otherwise Fire just isnt for you" }, { "id": "t1_oopb7w5", "author": "/u/myusernamewasatypo", "updated": "2026-05-30T04:13:15+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/oopb7w5/", "content": "Exactly! Also, no calculator on earth will give you 99% certainty, lest they be sued! There is no suh thing." }, { "id": "t1_oooo1jd", "author": "/u/powersurge", "updated": "2026-05-30T01:45:29+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/oooo1jd/", "content": "Interesting perspective. I suggest the >99% odds target is ludicrous. For one, those odds are typically just the chances that your plan needs no adjustment over any of your lifetime. A small adjustment often corrects most plans that are headed for failure.\n But worse still, >99% odds means working several years longer unbalanced by the other odds in your life. As an example, a male at age 55 could work to age 70 but is carrying a ~20% chance of dying before age 70. But that now dead man made >99% sure of having enough money for their lifestyle through to 20 more years past their death. Which risk is scarier?" }, { "id": "t1_ooqu30h", "author": "/u/HortaGrabber111", "updated": "2026-05-30T11:40:46+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/ooqu30h/", "content": "Facts, but also...it's not a binary choice either. OP was pointing out that -- using your example -- working to 57 in a higher paying job would likely ensure that you wouldn't have to return to work after FIRE on top of the real difficulty of doing so after a resume gap." }, { "id": "t1_oor16yp", "author": "/u/powersurge", "updated": "2026-05-30T12:26:31+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/oor16yp/", "content": "Sure but OP only discussed the consequences of not saving for just another couple years, as quite dire consequences. Unbalanced discussion by the much more dire consequences of dying before you get to use any of your retirement savings. Part of the 20% odds of dying before age 70 when you are male of age 55, is the chance that you will die before age 58.\n I also personally add the chances that someone I love will pass too, that I could have spent more time with, especially spouse." }, { "id": "t1_oorbwoj", "author": "/u/HortaGrabber111", "updated": "2026-05-30T13:28:32+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/oorbwoj/", "content": "Agreed. Also agree with OP's take re: return to work after a gap isn't as easy as it's often presented." }, { "id": "t1_oop9vp7", "author": "/u/myusernamewasatypo", "updated": "2026-05-30T04:03:46+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/oop9vp7/", "content": "1: Coast FIRE exists. This is some *dramatic* writing to cast a negative light on working for less, with less stress.\n 2: Statistically anyone with a normal FIRE amount is more likely to die with a huge amount still in the bank than they are to die unable to live at their desired level of luxury.\n 3. What are you doing here if you don't actually understand the proposition of FIRE in the first place?" }, { "id": "t1_oooqg4z", "author": "/u/400watta", "updated": "2026-05-30T01:59:47+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/oooqg4z/", "content": "I see the opposite. Most comments are fear mongering and telling people they can't retire when the math is mathing. It's either that or "just work x number of years more." People seem to be forgetting that the 4% rule was worst case scenario and most FIRE calcs don't even take into account social security. I say go for it if the numbers look good. Tomorrow isn't promised." }, { "id": "t1_oopl8kx", "author": "/u/gundahir", "updated": "2026-05-30T05:27:55+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/oopl8kx/", "content": "people are coping. I quit the same day it math'd. That was April 2024. I'm significantly up from there doing absolutely zilch since then except tremendously enjoying life" }, { "id": "t1_oooruc9", "author": "/u/Legitimate_Concern_5", "updated": "2026-05-30T02:08:11+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/oooruc9/", "content": "Let me just play devil's advocate here:\n > Any kind of IT/SWE is completely screwed. Imagine hiring a senior/staff level role who's only experience with AI is what they heard on the news.\n AI only really started being used in industry last November. It's been 6 months. Nobody has any real experience, nobody is expected to be stellar at it right now, and if you spend a few months with the tools and ask your friends in industry how they're using it, you'll be fine.\n Thinking back on what mobile iOS engineers were doing 10 years ago, it was Swift, and an immature SwiftUI. Today it's... swift, with a more mature SwiftUI and Codex.\n Several of the big tech companies I know first hand are using the exact same coding interview questions they had in 2015.\n > Finance has missed the last decade of market irrationality.\n As opposed to the previous decade of market rationality? You know, the GFC? Or the one before that, the tech bubble?\n > Management types would be coming back with no experience on WFH/hybrid work.\n There's always been WFH, it juts wasn't default, and frankly most companies are returning to office.\n > Medical/legal/engineers have all had their licenses expire by this point.\n Doctors will have to re-do some certs, but when was the last time you heard of a doctor not being able to get a job? It's about the most secure career in the history of the world. And that's if they let their licenses lapse instead of just keeping them up." }, { "id": "t1_ooozqty", "author": "/u/yosemitesam101", "updated": "2026-05-30T02:55:59+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/ooozqty/", "content": "Yeah I feel like OP greatly exaggerated the feasibility of a SWE learning AI. There are tons of free and reasonably priced resources out there. A month of focused work and you’d be ahead of a lot of people currently working good jobs in tech." }, { "id": "t1_oop1vr7", "author": "/u/Legitimate_Concern_5", "updated": "2026-05-30T03:09:49+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/oop1vr7/", "content": "Also each company has their own completely different approach to using and deploying it so they expect you to learn how they’re doing it. It’s not nearly as portable as core competencies. Everyone’s trying to figure it out right now." }, { "id": "t1_oorgx5u", "author": "/u/Particular_Maize6849", "updated": "2026-05-30T13:55:39+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/oorgx5u/", "content": "Also the whole point about AI is how it's so much easier to use than traditional coding that even business majors can code their own apps." }, { "id": "t1_oorowv0", "author": "/u/FIST_FUK", "updated": "2026-05-30T14:37:04+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/oorowv0/", "content": "As a doctor specifically in a procedural field I do think that being out of practice for any length of time will make you a very unattractive candidate. It’s even hard to change jobs if you are much older and still currently working. Source: comments from colleague, as well as personal observations when my group was considering hiring new members. Even locum tenens companies want you to have current experience. Maybe it would be different if you are a Self-Employed psychiatrist or something and you could just hang out your shingle again and try to directly recruit patients." }, { "id": "t1_oooxzlp", "author": "/u/Fin-Bud", "updated": "2026-05-30T02:45:03+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/oooxzlp/", "content": "It's simply a matter of risk tolerance. If you have a lower risk tolerance by all means keep working longer. But some others don't and are willing to take the risk. They are not wrong." }, { "id": "t1_oopdvjw", "author": "/u/Wonderful-Process792", "updated": "2026-05-30T04:32:23+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/oopdvjw/", "content": "I agree with this. You can't eliminate risk in your life. Once you've reduced the risk of going broke to be pretty low, other risks start to dominate. Not a small number of people have a heart attack or cancer and die." }, { "id": "t1_oop5fil", "author": "/u/PomegranateHefty4461", "updated": "2026-05-30T03:33:31+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/oop5fil/", "content": "Why would I work 60 hours a week for x many more years JUST IN CASE, when, if I absolutely need to, I can work a much less stressful job at much reduced hours IF I NEED?" }, { "id": "t1_oorq1xx", "author": "/u/Future-looker1996", "updated": "2026-05-30T14:42:51+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/oorq1xx/", "content": "What others have said: it’s definitely not a slam dunk to even get a barista fire job when you need it, especially if you’re older, especially if there are huge numbers of people competing for those jobs, especially if AI and other tech reduces the number of people needed, etc. Many people underestimate how hard it will be to find a job “beneath” their abilities." }, { "id": "t1_oougk60", "author": "/u/I_spy_wit_my_lilCIA", "updated": "2026-05-30T22:59:17+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/oougk60/", "content": "Many people underestimate how hard it will be to find a job “beneath” their abilities.\n No, I think many people are just not willing to reinvent themselves, be humbled, or be physically uncomfortable at their jobs." }, { "id": "t1_oool49x", "author": "/u/lagosboy40", "updated": "2026-05-30T01:27:59+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/oool49x/", "content": "Not sure I understand the point of this post. If your point is to have folks save more than their FIRE number to feel safe in retirement, you haven’t really articulated what that number is. Do you have any recommendations?" }, { "id": "t1_oooulhb", "author": "/u/CatWealthy", "updated": "2026-05-30T02:24:49+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/oooulhb/", "content": "They should rename this sub to the anti fire subreddit lol. Literally no one has enough money to retire according to this subreddit I saw someone a while back talking about they have 1.5 million and they're 55 "is it enough"? All the comments were like how can your retire when you're so poor." }, { "id": "t1_ooonvi8", "author": "/u/toodleoo77", "updated": "2026-05-30T01:44:29+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/ooonvi8/", "content": "I don’t think it’s a number, I think it’s having a realistic plan for what you are going to do if you need to start earning income again." }, { "id": "t1_oooorb5", "author": "/u/dabigchina", "updated": "2026-05-30T01:49:42+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/oooorb5/", "content": "I mean according to OP, its literally impossible to restart your career, so best not retire." }, { "id": "t1_ooonpl4", "author": "/u/moneyman74", "updated": "2026-05-30T01:43:30+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/ooonpl4/", "content": "Chances are if you are/were a high earner at some point who was a good performer, you probably have a lifeline or two in your network who would give you a chance at your old industry." }, { "id": "t1_oooowtg", "author": "/u/Unlikely_Act_5898", "updated": "2026-05-30T01:50:35+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/oooowtg/", "content": "I disagree. Financial freedom gives you options... too many people focus on RE not on FI." }, { "id": "t1_ooojt03", "author": "/u/PJM123456", "updated": "2026-05-30T01:20:05+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/ooojt03/", "content": "Fun fact most FIRE folks need minimal income to cover their annual expenses. In my case, minimal wage job in my state is 150% of what I need in a year.\n I'm in STEM. Physics dont change in 10 years" }, { "id": "t1_oookc21", "author": "/u/MadTownMich", "updated": "2026-05-30T01:23:15+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/oookc21/", "content": "Jobs applying physics do change in 10 years. Your attractiveness as a candidate changes after 10 years. OP is correct that people assuming they can jump back into the workforce after being out for 10 years are naive to the impact of time and changing technology, along with age discrimination." }, { "id": "t1_oookmwv", "author": "/u/pimpampoumz", "updated": "2026-05-30T01:25:06+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/oookmwv/", "content": "Not to mention you will compete with people who have the same level of experience, except theirs is recent and up to date, AND they are 10 years younger than you are." }, { "id": "t1_oooq9hp", "author": "/u/purplebuffalo55", "updated": "2026-05-30T01:58:39+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/oooq9hp/", "content": "From the standpoint of the company, the younger person has more potential and is less set in their ways" }, { "id": "t1_oooyvwv", "author": "/u/PJM123456", "updated": "2026-05-30T02:50:30+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/oooyvwv/", "content": "Sure. I'm just saying it's not like I would be "completely" unmarketable like the OP suggest. I would bet in 10 years, I would be making the same $150k/yr I do now, just due to inflation, LOL" }, { "id": "t1_oookirw", "author": "/u/Zone2OTQ", "updated": "2026-05-30T01:24:24+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/oookirw/", "content": "Not to be combative, but are you saying you could do your job without any awareness of anything published after 2016?" }, { "id": "t1_ooozke4", "author": "/u/PJM123456", "updated": "2026-05-30T02:54:50+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/ooozke4/", "content": "Top-level scientists/engineers don't stop being that at 5pm....it's part of their personality." }, { "id": "t1_oooorv0", "author": "/u/capitalsfan08", "updated": "2026-05-30T01:49:48+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/oooorv0/", "content": "Or tooling? Like man, I work in software engineering. I cannot imagine any 10 year period in my life when that would work. Even if you had the strongest understanding of fundamentals, just no." }, { "id": "t1_ooomgnc", "author": "/u/Junior_Accountant420", "updated": "2026-05-30T01:36:02+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/ooomgnc/", "content": "How are you a physicist and be this unaware of how STEM roles change over 10 years? Lol" }, { "id": "t1_ooozsye", "author": "/u/PJM123456", "updated": "2026-05-30T02:56:21+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/ooozsye/", "content": "it doesn't require a job to read latest research papers. Internet is everywhere." }, { "id": "t1_oookfwr", "author": "/u/whiteorchid1058", "updated": "2026-05-30T01:23:55+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/oookfwr/", "content": "May I ask? Theoretical or experimental?" }, { "id": "t1_oooz2r3", "author": "/u/PJM123456", "updated": "2026-05-30T02:51:42+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/oooz2r3/", "content": "both really R&D product development" }, { "id": "t1_ooomfws", "author": "/u/MikeWPhilly", "updated": "2026-05-30T01:35:54+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/ooomfws/", "content": "Ehh so then if you’re near the numbers and the minimum wage covers that much then you’ve hit the number. It’s simple. OP’s point is more along the lines of people earning $200-$500k and always want to pus the enevelope. And I tend to agree with him to a point.\n The point though is when somebody might have a large retirement planned for example I’m planning on $300k a year in income more or less. BUT I don’t need to spend that by any means So while I might work 1 or 2 extra years I won’t work 3, 4 or more etc..\n But OP brings up a good point if you are on the edge of your number you need to consider what the approach would be. Me? I guess I’ll live off $150k a year…." }, { "id": "t1_ooomtnk", "author": "/u/GMVexst", "updated": "2026-05-30T01:38:12+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/ooomtnk/", "content": "What's your sample size and length of time for the data you're referencing? FIRE hasn't exactly been popular for 30 years to make these conclusions" }, { "id": "t1_ooovuil", "author": "/u/spinz89", "updated": "2026-05-30T02:32:18+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/ooovuil/", "content": "This scenario is laughable. It's implying that people that know how to budget, plan ahead, and live way below their means will somehow forget all that once they retire. When in reality, the first few years of retirement is going be learning how to loosen up that penny pincher and if the markets aren't doing so hot the first couple of years of retirement, that penny pitcher isn't going anywhere." }, { "id": "t1_op4elzi", "author": "/u/SlightDogleg", "updated": "2026-06-01T13:11:51+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/op4elzi/", "content": "It also assumes pensions don't exist. I plan on CoastFIRE'ing in my mid-40s. My wife will get a full pension at 55. We could live on just her pension if it came to it." }, { "id": "t1_ooowx7x", "author": "/u/MiddleWallaby8255", "updated": "2026-05-30T02:38:41+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/ooowx7x/", "content": "I’m a surgeon. My field and specialty are DESPERATELY in demand I get 3-4 job offers texted to me daily with more on job boards I don’t check. I’ll keep my licenses active and probably pick up 4-5 shifts a month for fun money.\n For others though I agree - re-entry may not be as easy as initially thought with a resume gap and competition from every angle." }, { "id": "t1_ooqzcfx", "author": "/u/Comfortable_Area6414", "updated": "2026-05-30T12:15:05+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/ooqzcfx/", "content": "I don't know that I'd want to be the 1st patient operated on after a 6-12 month sabbatical, so thanks for your plan to work part time." }, { "id": "t1_oooseh8", "author": "/u/RumRations", "updated": "2026-05-30T02:11:34+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/oooseh8/", "content": "I know I’m going to have One More Year Syndrome. So my rule is I can work for exactly one more year when I hit my fire number and that is it. That’s enough buffer. No more extensions." }, { "id": "t1_oota7wz", "author": "/u/CanuckYou2", "updated": "2026-05-30T19:13:41+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/oota7wz/", "content": "And when the market drops precipitously 11 months after you hit your fire number and you are now below your original target.... one more year?" }, { "id": "t1_oouypdl", "author": "/u/RumRations", "updated": "2026-05-31T00:49:31+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/oouypdl/", "content": "Well in theory, the 4% plan allows you to survive this. But yes probably on the small chance I drop below my Fire number after another year of work, I would keep working." }, { "id": "t1_op1uwi4", "author": "/u/theflash1234", "updated": "2026-06-01T01:53:59+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/op1uwi4/", "content": "Hitting your number in a raging bull market after a crazy run up seems insane. I know the 4% model accounts for exactly that but dam, wait a few months. Either you hit new high and your 4% becomes 3.5% or the market crashes and you can quit during the next run up ." }, { "id": "t1_ooomr2r", "author": "/u/jamesmontanaHD", "updated": "2026-05-30T01:37:46+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/ooomr2r/", "content": "This is assuming you have no options during those 10 years. If it was me and the market underperforms 2 years in a row after I FIRE I'd probably try to get at least a part time job. It's not like you have to commit so hard. In your weird scenario of a 500k income VP, they could literally consult for 10 hrs a week and no one will question the resume gap." }, { "id": "t1_ooresaa", "author": "/u/Vicuna00", "updated": "2026-05-30T13:44:17+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/ooresaa/", "content": "agreed. you don't wake up and see your balance down in 10 years. you'll see it coming.\n even a $20k / year job cuts your withdrawal rate big time.\n also if stocks "haven't done great" and you go from $2M to $1.5M while spending 10 years of living expenses, that doesn't sound too bad to me. sounds like a bull market waiting to happen." }, { "id": "t1_oooqxwf", "author": "/u/slenderwin", "updated": "2026-05-30T02:02:45+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/oooqxwf/", "content": "Agreed. This is such a straw man argument. Sequence of returns risk isn’t 10 years, you’re going to know if you’re good or not soon enough to re-enter the workforce." }, { "id": "t1_ooovb2w", "author": "/u/FIREgnurd", "updated": "2026-05-30T02:29:04+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/ooovb2w/", "content": "SORR is in fact around 10 years. And people on here focus so much on a market drop and ignore the bigger risk of hyperinflation. Good reading:\n https://www.kitces.com/blog/understanding-sequence-of-return-risk-safe-withdrawal-rates-bear-market-crashes-and-bad-decades/" }, { "id": "t1_oooqww6", "author": "/u/Raging-Totoro", "updated": "2026-05-30T02:02:34+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/oooqww6/", "content": "You're not wrong, but there are definitely other options beyond going back to the the former role.\n Sometimes there are roles that are not paid as well, but they are lower stress, provide benefits, and feed the soul. Those are options too.\n They can be great gap fillers in a down market or even if your investments are doing ok." }, { "id": "t1_ooougnz", "author": "/u/codewolf", "updated": "2026-05-30T02:23:59+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/ooougnz/", "content": "Here's some real advice from someone already retired (early)...\n The reality, if you've done it correctly, is that once you've reached your FIRE numbers, you never need to work again.\n After I hit my numbers, I continued working, was laid off and was basically paid to retire just a few months from the date I had set for myself.\n I'm now making in a month in the market what I had in a year in tech and have absolutely no interest in looking back. If you think you may need to just go back into the industry if things fail, you have not hit a real FIRE number - keep working." }, { "id": "t1_oookkjv", "author": "/u/Anxious_Noise_8805", "updated": "2026-05-30T01:24:42+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/oookkjv/", "content": "I started my own tiny software product business after FIRE (I’m a software engineer), and it’s making about $10k-12k per month revenue now. Not a typical retirement thing to do though. My withdrawal rate is basically zero." }, { "id": "t1_oooo164", "author": "/u/Biohack", "updated": "2026-05-30T01:45:26+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/oooo164/", "content": "I'm doing something similar. I kind of decided I don't actually want to stop working in my field so when my previous company shut down, I just started my own consulting business. Now I can work as much or as little as I want and in the event I ever want to obtain full term employment again there won't be any gaps on my resume." }, { "id": "t1_oooolf4", "author": "/u/Anxious_Noise_8805", "updated": "2026-05-30T01:48:43+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/oooolf4/", "content": "I thought about that but I decided on a niche product business because you literally can stop working for very long periods of time and the income keeps coming in (assuming the product is released and people want it etc.). If you do consulting you have to continually do stuff to make money, at least that’s my perception of it.\n If you have a product business, it’s sort of like having a real estate rental. Semi-passive income that takes some support and maintenance here and there." }, { "id": "t1_ooolyce", "author": "/u/AntsInMyEuclid", "updated": "2026-05-30T01:32:59+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/ooolyce/", "content": "This is the way, if there isn’t too much friction finding clients." }, { "id": "t1_ooom22i", "author": "/u/Anxious_Noise_8805", "updated": "2026-05-30T01:33:36+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/ooom22i/", "content": "It’s a b2c, they find it organically from searching" }, { "id": "t1_ooon2al", "author": "/u/MikeWPhilly", "updated": "2026-05-30T01:39:39+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/ooon2al/", "content": "I’ve seen a few products pop up by business users using Claude code that are making similar ($6k+ a month incomes). It’s interesting to see what is going to change next 10 years." }, { "id": "t1_ootjbne", "author": "/u/sirwebber", "updated": "2026-05-30T19:59:06+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/ootjbne/", "content": "I’m interested in doing this as well. I have a tech background and am thinking to take time off work and build things.\n How hard was it to start making money? I don’t need to make a bunch - even $1k a month would be great." }, { "id": "t1_oooq42o", "author": "/u/Environmental-Low792", "updated": "2026-05-30T01:57:45+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/oooq42o/", "content": "I'm still blown away by people retiring with $1m in VOO and expecting to average 7% per year real return over the next decade, and earnings grow a historical 2% per year, that would be a PE ratio in the 80s! I love the optimism, but I will feel bad for the people if the next decade ends up with a 1% to negative real return." }, { "id": "t1_ooore86", "author": "/u/Future_Measurement42", "updated": "2026-05-30T02:05:28+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/ooore86/", "content": "I honestly dont exactly know how it doesn’t work like that. But I know the us has grown about 2-3% for the last 50 years while the stock market during that time period grown 10%.\n Neither of us know the future." }, { "id": "t1_oooxjwz", "author": "/u/Spez_is-a-nazi", "updated": "2026-05-30T02:42:26+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/oooxjwz/", "content": "A big part of that was large US multinationals getting a lot of sweetheart deals to gain access to foreign markets in exchange for trade access. A lot of revenue especially for the biggest corporations on the US stock exchange comes from abroad now. Don’t want to get political here but let’s just say that situation is a lot more precarious now than it was 2 years ago…." }, { "id": "t1_oooq4l7", "author": "/u/vngbusa", "updated": "2026-05-30T01:57:50+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/oooq4l7/", "content": "What about the consequences of oversaving and having your limited time on earth spent working instead of doing that thing you really loved or spending time with loved ones? Please address that too for a balanced perspective." }, { "id": "t1_oorelel", "author": "/u/Material_Reach_8827", "updated": "2026-05-30T13:43:15+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/oorelel/", "content": "That $2 million starting amount is now only $1.5 million. You cut discretionary spending a few years back, but the number just isn't going back up.\n The number is not necessarily supposed to always go up. That is factored into the safe withdrawal rate. If you're living on $70K with $2M (3.5% WR) and it drops to $1.5M, in any historical scenario the subsequent growth to revert back to the mean is supposed to make up for it.\n So you look for a job to earn a little extra money to get back on track. Now this is highly dependent on your individual career.\n You don't need to go back to your career. Even bringing in $10K/yr part time or with a side hustle can be a game changer for the FIRE math. Instead of needing to withdraw $70K you only need $60K, which is... exactly 4% of $1.5M (though again this scenario is largely a mental hangup - a problem of doubting the math).\n Well no, why would a company want to invest in developing a 55 year old who will leave once they've earned enough to go back to retirement?\n You're under no obligation to tell them what you were doing or what your plans are. If they ask, lie. All they're entitled to know is that you can do/learn this job now. If they're so concerned with wasting time on training, they can negotiate a longer contract - absent that, you don't owe them anything beyond 2 weeks.\n That means its 10 years of miserable work to make that $500k needed to get back on track.\n The average real return of the market alone would have you back at $2M after 6 years if you kept spending $70K. But again, you don't need to keep your savings at or above $2M." }, { "id": "t1_oor8tvt", "author": "/u/Robobuzz", "updated": "2026-05-30T13:11:27+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/oor8tvt/", "content": "The OG FIRE movement was really about accepting this risk wholeheartedly - a trade off to the freedom of pulling the trigger. A known risk of the possibility of multiple nail-biter years and tighten-the-belt a lot years. Still worth it for those folks and something that was known enough to not warrant reminder posts.\n Still have people like that but more common today is a FIRE contingent that needs more certainty -or full certainty - that there will be no financial-fear years or cut-way-back years. Which is fine. But I really think it is two different FIRE movements at this point." }, { "id": "t1_ooonv2h", "author": "/u/Topaz_11", "updated": "2026-05-30T01:44:25+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/ooonv2h/", "content": "Absolutely agree - This nonsense of going back at the same level of income and position is delusion. I know it's a one way jump and I also know one year is worth a decade or more of a wallworld greeter or whatever (not that they are real jobs for most anyway)." }, { "id": "t1_ooot179", "author": "/u/RX3000", "updated": "2026-05-30T02:15:22+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/ooot179/", "content": "I mean, I could work at McDonalds after I FIRE & be fine. Hell, I could work at McDonalds now & be fine. My house is paid off." }, { "id": "t1_oop5wsg", "author": "/u/Lifetimepossible", "updated": "2026-05-30T03:36:46+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/oop5wsg/", "content": "This post is scarcity talking. Start a business. Join a venture. If you choose to see and create opportunity, you will find it. If you only see downside, that’s the energy and outcome you will attract." }, { "id": "t1_ooonrie", "author": "/u/boringexplanation", "updated": "2026-05-30T01:43:49+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/ooonrie/", "content": "You can make the math less variable and more certain if you are that paranoid of running out of money.\n The easiest way to do that is start taking social security at 70. That gives you an exact date that you can map out your expenses for a set number of years. And an exact minimum budget you’ll have after 70.\n You can look to 1929 or 2009 to project what the worst case scenario looks like and run your math backwards from what a ~30% market drop looks like to determine how much you can leave in stocks versus bonds in a potential recession." }, { "id": "t1_oooriod", "author": "/u/mypetclone", "updated": "2026-05-30T02:06:13+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/oooriod/", "content": "> The easiest way to do that is start taking social security at 70. That gives you an exact date that you can map out your expenses for a set number of years. And an exact minimum budget you’ll have after 70.\n This assumes social security will exist in its present form when you hit 70 and onward. It seems hard to do that if you are that paranoid." }, { "id": "t1_oooo981", "author": "/u/_Mulberry__", "updated": "2026-05-30T01:46:44+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/oooo981/", "content": "I think people talk about leaving ASAP when they're in the early or middle part of their accumulation phase. Once people actually get ready to pull the trigger, they chicken out and end up with one-more-year syndrome. Which is probably for the best, as you've pointed out.\n As much as I like to think I'll pull the trigger ASAP and then monetize a hobby to reduce my withdrawal rate, I'll probably just do exactly as you said and work the extra year to give myself a bit extra margin/security. Then the monetized hobby can fund an extra trip or two each year instead of just reducing withdrawal rate." }, { "id": "t1_oorejrh", "author": "/u/joxxer42", "updated": "2026-05-30T13:43:00+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/oorejrh/", "content": "I think it's worth pointing out how incredibly powerful the "what if I'm wrong about my plan and numbers" mindset is, with decades of mental conditioning for most with "number must go up, work til 65" and not just simply wanting to pad out a bit more before pulling the cord.\n I worked out my numbers a couple months ago, refined plan after plan and worst case scenarios, compared multiple financial planning tools; the math maths.\n Then after factoring in my wife's job where she still plans to work and then draw a pension, my early mortgage payoff in a few years, the plan is even stronger with that financial floor.\n Yet here I am, still 'just getting to the end of the year for my bonus so I can make my sorr bridge larger'. I've told myself that will be the end of work for me, but I'm not certain; that's how deep of a mindset shift is for myself and I'm sure many other people who are still working when they don't need to be." }, { "id": "t1_ooopqbk", "author": "/u/superb_coverage", "updated": "2026-05-30T01:55:28+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/ooopqbk/", "content": "The career gap issue is massive and folk don't talk about it enough, especially in tech where things move at lightning speed. Working one more year beats a decade of scrambling to get back on track, honestly." }, { "id": "t1_ooorbqv", "author": "/u/JustARegularGuy", "updated": "2026-05-30T02:05:03+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/ooorbqv/", "content": "You don't have to go back to work as a senior developer.\n You can go back to work as a part time contractor who makes $60k a year." }, { "id": "t1_oooszi7", "author": "/u/Jumpy_Molasses_6639", "updated": "2026-05-30T02:15:06+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/oooszi7/", "content": "You're comparing 1 more year making 250k and a decent enough market that eventually gets you +500k more than base case after a decade. Then in the second example it's flat returns and now you gotta do back to the workforce after a decade. Those aren't the same markets, that's not a fair comparison.\n You will be more resilient even at once more year. But your example isn't the most honest" }, { "id": "t1_oooutmx", "author": "/u/tenaciouslyteetering", "updated": "2026-05-30T02:26:11+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/oooutmx/", "content": "That's the other extreme. I don't think I'd be looking to go back to my field - I know I wouldn't be able to. Nor, after 10 years, would I have the patience for going back. I think there's a lot of other options between not working at all and trying to go back to your old job. I'd slip back into BaristaFIRE/CoastFIRE mode before seeing a quarter of my accounts wash away. I'd do seasonal work, or work part time at a hobby place.\n You mention in this scenario they've already cut back some. If they were planning a 4% withdrawal rate they need 80k a year, probably less since they've cut back. In theory they don't need to work until they earn 500k, they just need to cover their living expenses while their portfolio grows back up.\n Unideal, but it's not 10 more years working entry level at the place you used to be VP at." }, { "id": "t1_oooxavk", "author": "/u/annefr26", "updated": "2026-05-30T02:40:56+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/oooxavk/", "content": "This doesn't just happen with FIRE. Every parent who has quit their job to raise kids and then gone back to work has dealt with this. Sometimes it works. Sometimes, well, my mom was a keypunch operator and that job didn't exist anymore. She was out of work for 10 years and got a new job in a different field." }, { "id": "t1_ooompdr", "author": "/u/DoorFrame", "updated": "2026-05-30T01:37:29+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/ooompdr/", "content": "It isn’t difficult to reactivate a legal license." }, { "id": "t1_oooqbny", "author": "/u/NetherIndy", "updated": "2026-05-30T01:59:02+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/oooqbny/", "content": "From my software/generalist perspective, there's a whole other path besides going back to 50 W-2 hours under the T12 fixture open office. And that is contract/consulting work. I have people sounding me out for some small to medium projects almost every month it feels like. I take one or two in the winter (when I can't be outside with bikes/kayaks/camper) just to stay a bit familiar with tooling. And that's with me not pursing gigs at all, be more I'm sure if I even tried. If you don't wait until you're flat broke to decide to start supplementing to stretch your savings, it doesn't have to be a huge number of hours. Just enough to float things until you reach Social Security age." }, { "id": "t1_oooxl63", "author": "/u/Particular_Maize6849", "updated": "2026-05-30T02:42:39+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/oooxl63/", "content": "If you are FI you are likely far past Coast. Also if you're FI you likely have a good handle on your finances and are keeping a close eye on things. If it starts to look like things aren't going well, all you need to do is to not pull from your nest egg and let it continue to Coast. You don't need a VP job or even a tech job to cover your basic costs to avoid pulling from your retirement accounts. You just need to pay the bills." }, { "id": "t1_oop1o2h", "author": "/u/Top-Rope6148", "updated": "2026-05-30T03:08:23+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/oop1o2h/", "content": "." }, { "id": "t1_oop46c3", "author": "/u/diyandmc240", "updated": "2026-05-30T03:25:04+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/oop46c3/", "content": "I think this is exceptionally important for early retire FIRE, I’m taking 40s or younger. When you’re in your 50s and you plan for a 4% withdrawal rate, worst case scenario it would take 25 years to drain the funds even if you assume just getting inflation back on your money. Social security also kicks in with Medicare too in your 60s which can extend you further.\n But if you are 40s or younger, you have a really long way to go. I wouldn’t feel comfortable with pretty much any more than a 2.5% withdrawal rate(40x my annual spending). I.e. if I’m planning to spend 100k a year, I’m not going to retire when I’m 42 unless I have 4M in invested funds. I’d also be looking at diversifying into real estate too as it is potentially more stable in the long run and can be leaned on in a bad market.\n Anyways, I think 4% makes sense. But the younger you plan to retire, the more seriously I would be thinking about being conservative or having a plan for passive income etc." }, { "id": "t1_oop6dqy", "author": "/u/NkKouros", "updated": "2026-05-30T03:39:56+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/oop6dqy/", "content": "Somehow everyone in the world only needs 1 more year. And in a year's time. They still need one more year . This is more a lesson about psychology and moving goalposts than finance." }, { "id": "t1_oorqgf5", "author": "/u/Pointlesspuppy", "updated": "2026-05-30T14:44:54+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/oorqgf5/", "content": "The problem is that most of the time "peak earning potential" also coincides with "peak workload, stress, and anxiety related to work".\n Sure. You can't go back to your $$$$ high level position, but why would you want to?\n The whole point of FIRE is to escape that life as soon as possible.\n Do what you want, not what you need to. And if that means taking a massive paycut to work in a field or pursue a hobby you find fun, exciting, interesting, or fulfilling, DO IT, or you'll look back at yourself decades from now and say "why did I stay at X job ten more years. Sure. I have 5 million dollars now instead of 3 million. And I gave up one of my best decades for it. Would I rather have the time and experiences back or the money? What does 5 million buy me that 3 doesn't, and is it work it?" }, { "id": "t1_ooooj0n", "author": "/u/PartyFeisty2929", "updated": "2026-05-30T01:48:20+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/ooooj0n/", "content": "Enjoy your additional years of employment!" }, { "id": "t1_ooooovz", "author": "/u/Skylord1325", "updated": "2026-05-30T01:49:18+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/ooooovz/", "content": "Largely agree but most here struggle with taking “one more year” too far rather than actually pulling the trigger too early.\n Also depends on career like you said but I think easing back in is just a matter of taking a month or two to do it for the majority. For most the skills are in the person and it’s a mater of adjusting to new trends.\n I’m a home builder, if I left the trades it would take me a month to brush up on modern codes, prevailing trends and to find new subs. The hard learned skills of interviewing subs and managing a project are already there. Likewise a manager may not be exposed to WFH but 90% of the job is the skills and knowledge associated with managing people and projects. Learning how to navigate tabs on zoom isn’t the thing holding them back.\n As for legal/medical you’re a fool if you don’t maintain your licenses, sorry but it’s true. The required CEs are incredibly minimal. My father holds his medical license decades after retiring simply as a byproduct of taking a few classes for the pure curiosity of what the field he spent his life doing is up to these days.\n I agree IT is the hardest but if you were already a network engineer or insert whatever form of coder you want then the fundamentals of it are still there. It’s the same principle behind why a native English speaker can learn Spanish so much faster than a native Mandarin speaker. It’s all about having a familiar knowledge closer to the language’s etymology. You’re not starting from scratch.\n Ultimately if there’s anyway to do part time work after hitting FI that what I tell people to do. IT can do contract work. Finance/Management can do consulting. Medical can do locum tenens. “Work” is a ton of fun when it’s only 1-2 days a week and entirely on your terms." }, { "id": "t1_oooopmy", "author": "/u/jellyn7", "updated": "2026-05-30T01:49:26+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/oooopmy/", "content": "You can “go back to work” if you expand your concept of what that looks like. I worked with someone who was double-retired with two pensions. He could take whatever low-key job he wanted. Library security guard, interoffice mail delivery, golf course something or other that got him free golf. Part time, little extra income, even paying into a third pension with the city jobs.\n You’re not going back to make 250k, but just to supplement your drawdown/pension/ss/real estate income. And you still have FU money so you don’t have to be pushed around by a crappy manager." }, { "id": "t1_ooopw9i", "author": "/u/millenium-DIY", "updated": "2026-05-30T01:56:27+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/ooopw9i/", "content": "This post is spot on. Everyone needs to get it while the getting is good.\n “After a few 'one more years', it will go from 'pretty sure we'll make it' to 'I need to find a way to blow another $100k every year on fun'”\n This right here is the difference between r/leanfire at 40 vs getting close to r/chubbyfire at 50 at least for me. I’ll be aiming for the latter" }, { "id": "t1_oooqe6t", "author": "/u/Middle-Jackfruit-896", "updated": "2026-05-30T01:59:27+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/oooqe6t/", "content": "This is a good post. As a professional, one cannot FIRE for years and then just return to work, as desired.\n Your clients are gone.\n Younger, cheaper professionals have replaced you. You do not fit the talent development pipeline.\n So unless you are fantastic at business development or bring something special to the table like extremely high reputation or expertise, people may view you with skepticism.\n Your governing body (e.g., law society, engineering association, accounting association) might have cumbersome requirements to return to practice.\n Your skills and knowledge may have atrophied, and may not be up to date. The world has moved on without you.\n You might be considered overqualified for less demanding work or less senior positions.\n Frankly, there's a huge psychological hurdle to return to the race, especially at a lower position and have to answer to the type of people you might have once managed. There may also be a stigma of having FIRE'd and then return to work." }, { "id": "t1_ooos6ni", "author": "/u/Rom2814", "updated": "2026-05-30T02:10:15+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/ooos6ni/", "content": "This is well put and has been a concern of mine.\n I just FIREd 2 weeks ago at 57. 29 year career with a PhD, highest technical level possible without becoming a manager (never wanted that), making over $500k/year with RSUs and bonuses.\n If things go bad and I had to “go back to work” in 5 years, I wouldn’t even be able to get a job in tech (62 with a 5 year absence?) and wouldn’t make 20% of what I’m making now. If I kept working for those 5 years I’d be making $600k-$750k/year.\n That’s not a rationale to keep working - I have “enough” and more money wouldn’t really do much to make me happier with my life (eliminating work stress and time working will). However, I wanted to be damn sure I would not be in the position of “oops, didn’t work out, need a job again.”\n If you’re thinking about what an hour of your time is worth, going from a job that pays really well to one that doesn’t, for me, is like devaluing your time and I’d feel incredible regret - others of course might feel differently.\n I never lived up to my means, thankfully, and I’ve tracked my spend closely for 2.5 years - if things go bad (market correction, inflation, etc.) I can cut spending significantly while still enjoying life - that was the only reason I was willing to quit.\n “Going back to work” for me as an absolute failure state, not a contingency plan." }, { "id": "t1_oootyw4", "author": "/u/IndustriousSeahawk26", "updated": "2026-05-30T02:21:01+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/oootyw4/", "content": "You’re not wrong. You should have FU money better you actually pull the trigger. Realistically, going back to work would be for social and emotional satisfaction (and fun) , so it can really be any job that fulfills that. If you actually had a career you loved , then you’d have no need to retire at all. You’d just keep working and be happy. So I me say if you have a chance at needing to go back to work, you’re actually not ready to FIRE yet" }, { "id": "t1_ooozlnb", "author": "/u/Castle_Five", "updated": "2026-05-30T02:55:03+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/ooozlnb/", "content": "I retired from web dev 6 years ago. You're making weird assumptions IMO about how ppl behave in retirement. Do you imagine people just sit down on the couch and stare at a wall for 40 years after quitting work? Or maybe you're assuming that someone got into IT just for the money despite hating IT, and they can't wait to quit and never touch it ever again? (then why get into IT in the first place?)\n I'm also assuming that since you retired, there was no reason to keep attending conferences, doing bootcamps, or keeping up with industry skills.\n I learned so much more after retirement in my field than when I was working. When I was working, I wasn't going to attend a conference unless I was getting paid. And after work I was sure as hell not going to do more programming. But after retiring, I was watching YouTube videos about the stuff that interested me, doing programming projects for fun, etc. The only thing you have a point on is that the nature of the programming changed. I was doing stuff like making physics simulations or games instead of boring-ass CRUD webpages.\n Any kind of IT/SWE is completely screwed. Imagine hiring a senior/staff level role who's only experience with AI is what they heard on the news.\n Again, I'm 100% sure my exposure to AI is greater post-retirement than it would've been if I was still working. I've done several personal coding projects with AI. I've built n8n agentic workflows. I have friends at my old company still. They tell me it took them years to get a model up and running in the company that was approved for sending the confidential codebase code to, and it's only really been a thing for the past several months now. I was using AI basically from when ChatGPT 3.5 made a splash back in 2022 constantly this whole time." }, { "id": "t1_oop9muk", "author": "/u/cmrocks", "updated": "2026-05-30T04:02:03+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/oop9muk/", "content": "Most high earning corporate professionals can go into consulting and make pretty good money still." }, { "id": "t1_oopb4jq", "author": "/u/Final-Extreme-4544", "updated": "2026-05-30T04:12:36+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/oopb4jq/", "content": "I think one piece of this you’re highly undervaluing is the network that this theoretical person has built up. These days it seems at least half the time people get the job, or at the very least an interview, based on who they know, not what their resume says.\n 20-30 years of working is a shit load of time to build rock solid connections. That’s not to say it would be easy to get back into it, but it would for sure be a massive leg up" }, { "id": "t1_oophepy", "author": "/u/rubbishindividual", "updated": "2026-05-30T04:58:37+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/oophepy/", "content": "I think what this is missing is an understanding of what failure scenarios look like in practice. If you're taking 4% withdrawals and accepting a 95% success rate, those 5% of failures aren't coming from a decade of middling returns. Those 5% are as a result of SORR - it's the sort of people who retired in 2008. That person's portfolio got hit by a train shortly after retirement. They would've known immediately and been prepared to rejoin the workforce, even if they can't find a job until 2010. It doesn't take 10 years out of the workforce to realise that you might be in that 5% failure window." }, { "id": "t1_oopis63", "author": "/u/JacobAldridge", "updated": "2026-05-30T05:08:59+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/oopis63/", "content": "Pretty confident isn't good enough, you need to be >99% sure\n This is nuts, and only remotely true if you want to withdraw more money every year, and never look at your bank account ever again. It’s a strategy to deal with every risk BEFORE retirement, and not give yourself any flexibility AFTER.\n If you do have the ability to manage risks AFTER, then why work extra years? Michael Kitces had a great interview with Erin Talks Money (?) recently, and he gave an example that very closely matches my family situation.\n It was a couple whose retirement plans included travelling the world; Kitces’s forecasts were a 65% success rate. For Kitces, he saw that as a bad thing, and felt he was breaking the news to the couple that they either couldn’t retire or couldn’t retire into the life they wanted.\n The guy’s reply surprised him: “ So you’re saying 2/3rds of the time it works perfectly, and 1/3rd of the time I’ll get bad news in advance and have to stay home for a few years? Sounds good to me, I’m off on a plane, call me if I need to come home .”\n The 4% Rule has LOTS of guardrails already built in (remember that Trinity called in “exceedingly conservative”, and they only wanted 95% not >99%!).\n But there are many other options.\n You mentioned ‘go back to work’ as one guardrail. As someone who has that among many plans for AFTER retirement in the unlikely (1 in 3) chance I need to change my plans, my reply is not “pretend it doesn’t exist as protection” it’s “have an actual plan for making it happen” - for all the reasons you outline .\n Since we might hit our FIRE number this year, our plan is well underway so I can return to work and earn some / all of our necessary income even during a recession. No way I’m working several extra years just to prevent the possibility I might have to work several extra years .\n But I have a plan, not a naive hand-wave." }, { "id": "t1_oopwo9a", "author": "/u/Critical_Fun_7562", "updated": "2026-05-30T07:01:17+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/oopwo9a/", "content": "A profound advice. There is no way for a professional to return their career after 10 years away" }, { "id": "t1_ooq9sat", "author": "/u/briggers", "updated": "2026-05-30T08:55:12+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/ooq9sat/", "content": ""One more year" spends the healthiest and most capable year you have in the bank. When you get to 80 or 90 you'd love to pay 0.5M to get that year back." }, { "id": "t1_ooqprm5", "author": "/u/Haber87", "updated": "2026-05-30T11:10:04+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/ooqprm5/", "content": "I’ve thought the same thing. Right now I’m in a unionized government job. I get 6 weeks vacation, all stat holidays, and have a year’s worth of sick leave banked. There is no way I’d BaristaFIRE into a crappy service industry job.\n However, spouse is starting CoastFire next month at 60% time. Every weekend will be a 4 day weekend. I’m planning to combine volunteering and a small amount of work in a field that doesn’t pay well because it’s a Do What You Love field with more applicants than positions.\n But we will never go back to full time work at a terrible salary." }, { "id": "t1_ooqsucj", "author": "/u/rh681", "updated": "2026-05-30T11:32:16+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/ooqsucj/", "content": "The younger you are retiring (like fi/RE in your 40's), the more important it is to over-save above what the calculator shows. Even if the math maths, you can't anticipate market changes, ACA changes and tax changes that far out." }, { "id": "t1_oovugxd", "author": "/u/NoSurprise7196", "updated": "2026-05-31T04:07:22+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/oovugxd/", "content": "Currently being forced to FIRE because I just lost my job and can’t find a new one. (Senior role in tech)" }, { "id": "t1_ooz8q3m", "author": "/u/temerairevm", "updated": "2026-05-31T17:34:20+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/ooz8q3m/", "content": "I think it depends a lot on what your job is, so people should be self aware about that. I personally have a job that would be more difficult to get back into, but is probably ok to ease out of gradually (we are going to find out).\n But there are other jobs that maybe wouldn’t be so hard. Not everyone is a SWE working in big tech companies." }, { "id": "t1_oookvte", "author": "/u/Patient_Shower7870", "updated": "2026-05-30T01:26:36+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/oookvte/", "content": "Yep. Need to stay a little active n stay UpToDate. Finding a part time or prn position that gives one day a week on average exposure should give you that." }, { "id": "t1_ooop7zi", "author": "/u/MundaneOrdinary7493", "updated": "2026-05-30T01:52:25+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/ooop7zi/", "content": "It's much easier to cut a little bit of spending than to go back to doing low wage work. Everyone talks about 4% rule of spending. A real FIRE scenario should involve 2% fixed costs (like housing, medical, groceries, car) and 3-4% flexible spending (like travel etc.)" }, { "id": "t1_ooopkwf", "author": "/u/Miss_Warrior", "updated": "2026-05-30T01:54:34+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/ooopkwf/", "content": "you can't get your old job back if its been more than a few years\n Not even a few years. As soon as hiring managers see gaps on resume for more than six months they start questioning whether the candidate has issues/is problematic. I see some people in this sub always recommend folks to take sabbaticals to test out FIRE and/or go back to work when the market crashes etc but in reality that's a really naive/irresponsible comment imo. What makes you think employers will choose you over someone with constant employment (especially in a down market)?" }, { "id": "t1_oooqv5p", "author": "/u/Nearing_retirement", "updated": "2026-05-30T02:02:17+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/oooqv5p/", "content": "My plan is if need to work I’ll just get easy but low paying job. Maybe teach community college. Right now my biggest reason for staying working is my kids. They are still young at 5,8 and 12. I would like to try and set them up to be on the right track." }, { "id": "t1_ooorgwf", "author": "/u/FI-ReDH", "updated": "2026-05-30T02:05:55+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/ooorgwf/", "content": "I agree that one should measure twice (or more) and cut once. I was in a not so great place mentally a few years back and then last year was really desperate to see if we could FIRE with $1.2m and government child subsidies. Even though we probably COULD have, I took the wise advice from random strangers on the internet (re: Redditors) and decided to hold off and keep working instead to reach our super safe goal of $3m instead. I'm glad I did. Our investments have grown to $2.1m since then and mentally I feel better about work (would still quit if we reached our number tomorrow though lol). Patience is a virtue. Trust the process, spend less than you earn, and invest the difference. I hope we can reach our number in another 3-5 years, then we will re-evaluate how our lives are going and decide on what to do from there." }, { "id": "t1_ooosn17", "author": "/u/milovulongtime", "updated": "2026-05-30T02:13:00+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/ooosn17/", "content": "This is highly dependent on career field. Anyone with a Mechanical Engineering degree and a pulse can get a job. They might have to move for it, but it can be done." }, { "id": "t1_ooot3hi", "author": "/u/ShuShuSpray", "updated": "2026-05-30T02:15:45+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/ooot3hi/", "content": "I agree with this notion that you can't expect to return to your previous job once you FIRE and earn roughly the same before you FIRE'd. Hell it's hard to find a job now with current skills and experience, and being out of employment for any amount of years puts you at a disadvantage against other job candidates. I think that's OP's main point.\n No one here can predict what will happen in the job market in 5-10 years. Just thinking what has happened over the past 10 years is just incredible in itself.\n Great differing viewpoint on FIRE and one that I hadn't really thought about and I think more ppl should think about (myself included) just to manage future expectations." }, { "id": "t1_oooviba", "author": "/u/Rocko210", "updated": "2026-05-30T02:30:17+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/oooviba/", "content": "I agree. In many job sectors, being employed and available is how you maintain marketability. Not taking 6 months trips to Thailand and Bali.\n Once you FIRE, assume that you won’t be able to “go back to work.”" }, { "id": "t1_oooweup", "author": "/u/Witty-Drama-3187", "updated": "2026-05-30T02:35:41+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/oooweup/", "content": "I agree that the notion of getting back into your career at a later time at anywhere near the same salary you had when you retired is a difficult prospect.\n My only counterpoint is that if you are in a position to FIRE, you’re obviously sitting on a decent amount of cash/investments. If for whatever reason (bad market, over spending, etc), you need to find some income for a while, it is likely that it doesn’t have to be at the same level you had when you originally retired. You can find a side hustle, a lower paying job, basically just something to bring in some income to help pad your number." }, { "id": "t1_ooowv8o", "author": "/u/Longjumping_Bell5171", "updated": "2026-05-30T02:38:22+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/ooowv8o/", "content": "Not as hard as you think to get back into medicine after several years off. Particularly if trained in a high demand specialty." }, { "id": "t1_oooww6h", "author": "/u/Yukycg", "updated": "2026-05-30T02:38:31+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/oooww6h/", "content": "I agreed to have some buffer and going back to old job might not applicable to most. Regardless, I am more wondering if anyone miscalculated their number the bad way and force to come back to work. Current market is hot, this topic wont have much affect until the market tank 20%." }, { "id": "t1_oop08ak", "author": "/u/LCVHN", "updated": "2026-05-30T02:59:05+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/oop08ak/", "content": "Just keep working 1-2 days a week in a position that will let you go back to full time. Full early retirement is a trap anyway." }, { "id": "t1_oop4tqx", "author": "/u/theotisfinklestein", "updated": "2026-05-30T03:29:26+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/oop4tqx/", "content": "If you make $250k and only have $2 million at 55 years old, you probably have a spending problem. And because of that, even an extra $500k isn’t enough." }, { "id": "t1_oopbb39", "author": "/u/JayQuellin01", "updated": "2026-05-30T04:13:53+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/oopbb39/", "content": "Consulting is the answer" }, { "id": "t1_oopfagg", "author": "/u/waits5", "updated": "2026-05-30T04:42:51+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/oopfagg/", "content": "Just keep working until you’re dead! Then you won’t risk retiring too early." }, { "id": "t1_oopgdbp", "author": "/u/garoodah", "updated": "2026-05-30T04:50:50+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/oopgdbp/", "content": "It’s incumbent upon you to keep running the analysis and figure out you need to return to work within 2-3 years because the sorr is putting you on edge. In many cases you’ll know early on. Even so offsetting any expenses with part time work will help you transition out of full time being always on. You’re right that it’s unlikely someone will want to invest in a 55 year old but if AI does work out knowledge is going to be a commodity anyways and then it’s on you to have a network. But no one should expect to leave and return at their prior income that’s just silly." }, { "id": "t1_oopnce7", "author": "/u/wallywonkaaa", "updated": "2026-05-30T05:44:48+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/oopnce7/", "content": "Make sure your job doesn't become your identity. Whatever you have written describe how your career has become your entire life" }, { "id": "t1_oopwfin", "author": "/u/Life_Commercial_6580", "updated": "2026-05-30T06:59:15+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/oopwfin/", "content": "I don’t think in so many details. I just trust that I’d figure something out like I’ve always done.\n Usually life worked for me differently than I planned and I made a lot of decisions without having every step completely figured out years before.\n Now, in our case we are over funded. I’m just saying, if you know you’re resourceful and trust yourself , you don’t have to worry about every what if." }, { "id": "t1_oopwj93", "author": "/u/anon18274729", "updated": "2026-05-30T07:00:06+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/oopwj93/", "content": "I’ll add another layer to this… I have no special skills or talents just some college background and I’ve done work in manufacturing (assembly and machine operating) and restaurant services.\n I moved to a new town and it took me almost 2 months to find a job in another restaurant. I applied to several places (including outside of manufacturing and hospitality) and heard crickets.\n I quit that one had 2 months of savings built up and started looking for another job and it took almost another 2 months and this time I put in like quadruple the apps everywhere…\n Everyone wants to say they are hiring but no one actually is and when they are they want to give entry level positions with phd requirements and pay you $12hr. So even if you retired and wanted to rejoin the work place good luck even trying to be a Walmart door greeter (I got rejected from Target… Target like bruh)\n Needless to say I am currently working on gaining some higher valued skills while trying to fund my options account so I can be a full time trader. I’m a great stock advisor I just execute my own plays poorly but I can sure call them out for others or that’s what I’d be doing full time. Currently working on getting into data analytics (I got the tism for numbers and patterns) if anyone wants to shed some light or insights Id gladly take it" }, { "id": "t1_ooq0sru", "author": "/u/ThirstyWolfSpider", "updated": "2026-05-30T07:36:17+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/ooq0sru/", "content": "In my software development career, it always seemed like the keeping-up-with-tech thing wouldn't be so relevant, as we were always changing the tools, languages, and frameworks we used every few years. Drop out for a bit, leapfrog to the newest things, come back in.\n I was retired in a 2020 mass layoff, did some contracting on a whim in '22-23, and even since then the rise of use of LLMs in coding has been dramatic. My exploration of LLMs has not exactly inspired confidence in them (like having a terribly junior programmer who you can't even mentor into improvement) and I don't want a supervise-the-bots job.\n I'm glad I don't need to get back into the game, as it's looking like a game I would never want to play. And that doesn't even touch the fact that I don't want to give up my time the way I so casually did in the past." }, { "id": "t1_ooqhdpz", "author": "/u/Ok_Benefit_8515", "updated": "2026-05-30T10:02:37+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/ooqhdpz/", "content": "This is false. You absolutely can" }, { "id": "t1_ooqidsz", "author": "/u/7min", "updated": "2026-05-30T10:11:08+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/ooqidsz/", "content": "Yeah, you can. I left the workforce in my mid-thirties to start my own thing and went back in my late 40s. Timing and luck was of course important—during Covid when hiring was high, but I received multiple offers with an 11 year “entrepreneurial” gap.\n Worked a little over five years, resigned this Spring, back to traveling.\n It’s definitely more difficult to come back after time off, but especially in technical work, you can usually jump back in. I know multiple folks still consulting in their 70s." }, { "id": "t1_ooql4bq", "author": "/u/Fi-Me-Away", "updated": "2026-05-30T10:33:55+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/ooql4bq/", "content": "This is a very common topic and conversation point. So much so that s lot of people end up doing "one more year" for years.\n With everything in life it all depends. Depends on the career, the age, and how much fat is in your budget.\n One more year as a 40 yo making good money and planning on a lean-ish number is much different then a 55 yo planning on travel the world levels of money with credentials they plan to keep active." }, { "id": "t1_ooqlc20", "author": "/u/Generationhodl", "updated": "2026-05-30T10:35:43+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/ooqlc20/", "content": ""Pretty confident isn't good enough, you need to be >99% sure"\n bro, life doesnt work this way. You can do all the things to be 99% sure, and life will still come and kick you in the ballz." }, { "id": "t1_ooqsurv", "author": "/u/incomeGuy30-50better", "updated": "2026-05-30T11:32:21+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/ooqsurv/", "content": "Amen. Excellent observations" }, { "id": "t1_ooqsxhw", "author": "/u/MrGunny94", "updated": "2026-05-30T11:32:52+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/ooqsxhw/", "content": "I’m not leaving my job despite being able to FIRE in 2 years, I love what I do and it’s nice to do something until 5pm and then just focus on the family.\n Keeps things interesting, plus I work in finance so we are at a very interesting time with AI" }, { "id": "t1_ooqvq4c", "author": "/u/CoganZero", "updated": "2026-05-30T11:51:49+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/ooqvq4c/", "content": "100% this is the advice i often give when I talking to some younger kid who hit their fire number at 32. find something you enjoy that still has some sort of pay check. unless youre at 500x your annual living costs, 30s and in some cases 40s is far to early to fire. because youre right if you have to go back to work with a 10 or 20 year gap? its paper or plastic ma'am. People crunch these numbers all day but im telling you its more expensive than people think. and if youre wrong, it hurts." }, { "id": "t1_oor831e", "author": "/u/54dale21", "updated": "2026-05-30T13:07:16+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/oor831e/", "content": "Wow there is a lot of FUD in this post. OP is assuming a lot of things go wrong here. They are:\n -assuming your initial "I have enough" calculation is wrong (if using 4% rule, it accounts for sequence of returns risk).\n - AND assuming 10 years of below average returns (which has happened in severe recessions but is not very common).\n - AND assuming that, during the first half of this unusually bad 10 year downturn, you "do all your bucket list items" and continue to spend without reducing or returning to work after just a year or two.\n - AND assuming that, when the OP mentions "You cut discretionary spending a few years back", that the numbers don't come back up.\n - AND assuming that you weren't able to work part time over those 10 years to keep skills sharp and/or have some extra income.\n - AND assuming that you search for jobs in your old career path but aren't successful.\n - AND assuming that you pivot to a new, lower-paying career path but aren't successful.\n - AND assuming that you have no skills that anyone wants (2016 IT/SWE still have relevant skills today, Finance laws are largely similar to what they were in 2016, Management experience isn't only about understanding WFH/hybrid, Medical/legal/engineer license can be maintained or reapplied for).\n - AND assuming that you can't learn a new skill to make you relevant in a new career path (spend a year at community college if you really need to, to earn a certificate in something modern and relevant).\n And they throw in some hyperbole with the "if you are making $250k" example. I know that's just an example, but most people are not making anywhere close to $250k/year. And "former VP of 2026 BS" example (most people are not VPs).\n Sure, if every one of those bad events occur then you will be in a tight spot. But if just one of those bad events does NOT occur, you'll be just fine." }, { "id": "t1_oorctey", "author": "/u/idealistintherealw", "updated": "2026-05-30T13:33:33+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/oorctey/", "content": "You can substitute teach, teach community college, that kind of thing. If you need to supplement in the rust belt, it’s fine. If you fall short and live in New York City or California, not so much." }, { "id": "t1_oorppjn", "author": "/u/Ok-Teach3479", "updated": "2026-05-30T14:41:06+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/oorppjn/", "content": "For some people leaving and coming back is 100% not an option.\n For some people it's 100% easy to leave and come back and sometimes to even increase pay.\n (and then for many it's in the middle, like they can come back but at a reduced salary or maybe in an adjacent job not the exact job, etc. etc.)\n The only problem is everyone thinks and talks like EVERYONE'S situation is the same as theirs. If people were more open minded about people's situation being different from them, and people themselves being different (some people can't sleep at a 4.2% withdrawal rate because they've had previous trauma or are just built that way) then we'd understand each other more.\n I personally have been homeless before. I'm WAY more risk adverse to that outlier fear than most. So I'm doing a sub 4% withdrawal rate. But some people will say I'm "wasting my life" by working more and over saving. But for me, the comfort of a lower withdrawal rate is worth it." }, { "id": "t1_oorwjys", "author": "/u/beached89", "updated": "2026-05-30T15:15:12+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/oorwjys/", "content": "I work in the IT space. While I cant go back to Senior Engineer, I certainly can go back to intermediate or at the very least junior." }, { "id": "t1_ooyxjcd", "author": "/u/Glittering_Focus_295", "updated": "2026-05-31T16:42:02+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/ooyxjcd/", "content": "I'm not aware of any law that says once FIREd you may never work again." }, { "id": "t1_ooz72zg", "author": "/u/master_blaster_321", "updated": "2026-05-31T17:26:44+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/ooz72zg/", "content": "Struggling a bit with this myself right now. Selling a tech business that I'm burned out on, will have just shy of $2m invested... No debt no dependents. 51m. I'm pretty sure I'll be okay (and my CPA and advisor agree) but I can't help but feel apprehensive about cutting the cord on my income. Thankfully I have some decent skills and connections in the industry and feel relatively confident that I can find some consulting work if I need to fill the gap... Or buy back into a business if I feel like going back to work full time. Just have to get past the catastrophic thinking." }, { "id": "t1_op1ri0u", "author": "/u/theflash1234", "updated": "2026-06-01T01:32:46+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/op1ri0u/", "content": "I agree with you. I hit my number a year ago but being locked into a lifestyle of your 30s and waking away from peak earning years felt silly.\n After just year I’m 1.5x above my number. Feels like that’s a much better way to beat SORR. I’ve been working with a lot less pressure too.\n Of course this only applies if you hit your number young. If you hit it at 58 or something then the calculus looks different." }, { "id": "t1_ooomqao", "author": "/u/CompetitiveBell2298", "updated": "2026-05-30T01:37:38+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/ooomqao/", "content": "Gonna’ look like Susan’s dad’s cabin before long." }, { "id": "t1_oooquvv", "author": "/u/plawwell", "updated": "2026-05-30T02:02:14+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/oooquvv/", "content": "Seinfeld reference? Bubble boy episode." }, { "id": "t1_ooonr40", "author": "/u/pocahantaswarren", "updated": "2026-05-30T01:43:45+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/ooonr40/", "content": "Relatedly, but I wonder how many people have screwed themselves by looking at their account balances in nominal instead of real terms — ie., accounting for inflation. So they think they’ve hit their number but actually they haven’t cuz they’ve not adjusted it down to real terms. And they pull the trigger only to realize in 10 years they have way less than they need. And at that point they’re truly screwed." }, { "id": "t1_ooopkaq", "author": "/u/Rushinman", "updated": "2026-05-30T01:54:28+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/ooopkaq/", "content": "I decided to take a different path - we are almost FI and instead of looking at traveling the world and quitting altogether I’m looking at how I can transition into another role I can realistically keep for 5 more years. I think just changing companies will give me enough momentum to reengage in work.\n And given that we are almost FI I can be super selective on my job. It’s so nice interviewing just for team fit rather than max compensation or prestige." }, { "id": "t1_oooq4fd", "author": "/u/Eastern-Composer6261", "updated": "2026-05-30T01:57:48+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/oooq4fd/", "content": "Can if you’re in a trade" }, { "id": "t1_oooqcbx", "author": "/u/itzdivz", "updated": "2026-05-30T01:59:09+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/oooqcbx/", "content": "thats the thing that scares me if i stop working. Combined with who knows how inflations will hit. On paper i couldve retired but im scared if sh*t happens and i need salary again i could not land another decent paying job." }, { "id": "t1_oooqd6f", "author": "/u/Ok-Sheepherder7898", "updated": "2026-05-30T01:59:17+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/oooqd6f/", "content": "I think the people saying this are in a profession that can do this. But a lot of us aren't in that kind of profession." }, { "id": "t1_ooorccs", "author": "/u/kittynation69", "updated": "2026-05-30T02:05:09+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/ooorccs/", "content": "Meh, i just plan for a more conservative 3% max withdrawal rate and keep my investments on a total world ETF instead of USA centric one. I personally would hate wasting years of my life working something I hate just so I can “find a way to blow another 100k every year” time while you’re young is priceless imo.\n Ofc the true answer is not black and white, it’s somewhere in between but for me I will quit the second that I meet my criteria and will do whatever is necessary on market down years to live frugally" }, { "id": "t1_ooorryc", "author": "/u/SohnJusan", "updated": "2026-05-30T02:07:47+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/ooorryc/", "content": "You’re spitting that fire" }, { "id": "t1_ooosf23", "author": "/u/evenfallframework", "updated": "2026-05-30T02:11:40+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/ooosf23/", "content": "Remindme! 4 years" }, { "id": "t1_ooosnex", "author": "/u/Ralith_Aegis", "updated": "2026-05-30T02:13:04+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/ooosnex/", "content": "I do Physical Therapy. It would be easy to get 3 full time jobs, but definitely does depend on your area. Medical, nursing, etc shouldn't be bad. Even can keep up license for first 5-10 years." }, { "id": "t1_ooot1rt", "author": "/u/Accurate-Neck6933", "updated": "2026-05-30T02:15:28+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/ooot1rt/", "content": "Thank you for your much needed Come to Jesus Ted Talk." }, { "id": "t1_ooot1sn", "author": "/u/Oreo_Cow", "updated": "2026-05-30T02:15:28+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/ooot1sn/", "content": "Life is short. Retire as soon as you can to enjoy life beyond the rat race.\n Life is also long. Don’t retire too soon or you’ll run out of money." }, { "id": "t1_oooubxg", "author": "/u/New_Feature_5138", "updated": "2026-05-30T02:23:12+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/oooubxg/", "content": "This feels a little like catastrophizing..\n Like yeah there is a possibility you have to go back to work and you probably won’t be able to return to your same level, but that isn’t the end of the world. There are lots of places to work that don’t abuse you. And being somewhat financially independent you have a ton more flexibility.\n I dunno I feel like holding back on life because of the fear scenarios you made up is like not at all what this sub is about." }, { "id": "t1_ooouyj7", "author": "/u/ShortFallSean", "updated": "2026-05-30T02:26:59+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/ooouyj7/", "content": "I mean, yeah, if you want to be a pussy about it. But for some of us we're confident enough in our ability to figure it out if things go awry." }, { "id": "t1_ooow17w", "author": "/u/NA_Faker", "updated": "2026-05-30T02:33:24+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/ooow17w/", "content": "If you're portfolio can't survive a few 50% drops in the stock market, you aren't ready to FIRE" }, { "id": "t1_ooowtj7", "author": "/u/AndrewUaena", "updated": "2026-05-30T02:38:05+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/ooowtj7/", "content": "I don't see why the only options are "go back to your old job at a much lower rate" or "work at Walmart". While I didn't FIRE with intentionality, when I left my SWE job I knew it was a one-way trip and had no intention of ever going back. I started my own business doing my dream job in a completely unrelated field, and found that it is not even that hard to grow a business if profitability is not a major concern at the outset.\n I realize that I can't speak for everybody and not everyone wants to start a business, but I feel that with some imagination, there are more ways to "go back to work" than OP suggests." }, { "id": "t1_oooxwhg", "author": "/u/_Smashbrother_", "updated": "2026-05-30T02:44:32+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/oooxwhg/", "content": "Yes, which is why I'm going to make sure I have more than enough before I retire.\n Dying with a bunch of money because I worked an extra couple of years is not ideal, but it's sure as shit way better than not having enough and either having to go back to work, or living a shitty life because I don't have enough." }, { "id": "t1_oooytd4", "author": "/u/AcanthisittaWhole216", "updated": "2026-05-30T02:50:03+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/oooytd4/", "content": "If I were to ever FIRE, I don’t think I would completely stop working. I’d still want to keep a part time low wage job just for the health insurance benefit." }, { "id": "t1_oooz6hl", "author": "/u/cowmandude", "updated": "2026-05-30T02:52:22+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/oooz6hl/", "content": "My experience has been that I've made more money than I expected since retiring(granted my expectations were 0) and I've spent less than I thought I would(thought we'd be taking 6 international vacations a year... turns out that's exhausting and 3 is more than enough).\n I also think you're really catastrophizing. Could there be a down decade? Sure. The VP in your example isn't going to work a miserable job for 10 years, he's going to quickly rise in the ranks and do just fine. I've always said I made enough to retire once, I can do it again. I was dumb when I started last time. I'm slightly less dumb now.\n Also are we also imagining that there is yet another decade of flat growth? This would be catastrophic to the whole economy. Nobody would be able to retire. Pension plans would fail. There would be turmoil no matter what.\n How are you going to feel when a fresh grad 23 year old tears down your ideas (because they're 10 years outdated) and the boss agrees with them?\n I'm going to feel great because I'm not a dick and life long learning is something I do in or out of retirement." }, { "id": "t1_oop0q2i", "author": "/u/That-SoCal-Guy", "updated": "2026-05-30T03:02:14+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/oop0q2i/", "content": "It depends on the definition of work and also what you’re doing. Second careers are not uncommon (I’m in one now) but making peak $$$, most likely not (yet anyway). But I definitely enjoy my “work” more these days. The point is money is no longer the objective. Fulfillment is." }, { "id": "t1_oop118u", "author": "/u/mehmeh42", "updated": "2026-05-30T03:04:15+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/oop118u/", "content": "You mentioned a 55 year old going back isn’t that missing the point of FIRE though. Wouldn’t it be more like a 37 year old going back or 43 year old after 6 years of FIRE? Still prime of their life?" }, { "id": "t1_oot5uch", "author": "/u/HonestOtterTravel", "updated": "2026-05-30T18:53:26+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/oot5uch/", "content": "OP mentioned 10 years of returns. I'd think retiring at 45 would easily qualify as part of the FIRE community." }, { "id": "t1_oop18f2", "author": "/u/beelzeboozer", "updated": "2026-05-30T03:05:33+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/oop18f2/", "content": "I am planning on having aqequate cushion before pulling the cord with the ability to cut back spending. But if i can tolerate it Imight work a little while beyond that to put away funds for home repairs and renovations, vacations, new vehicles, toys like mopeds and bicycles and watches, kids sports. Then I can scale back spending and dip into the above funds in an extended down market.\n I agree with your idea overall. In my case though I work in accounting/finance/regulatory in a highly regulated industry that is esoteric and the regulations are from the 1950s. So these skills have some durability and makes consulting an option." }, { "id": "t1_oop214s", "author": "/u/Adorable_Doctor_525", "updated": "2026-05-30T03:10:48+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/oop214s/", "content": "At the age of 53 and a 2.5% SWR, I’m like 100% sure I ain’t going back to work. If I cut expenses, I can probably get that to 2% or less pretty easily." }, { "id": "t1_oop3bg9", "author": "/u/No_Reveal2311", "updated": "2026-05-30T03:19:19+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/oop3bg9/", "content": "Doesn't have to be all or nothing though right? Find a good off ramp that lets you keep a foot in the game while doing something nominal like 10 hours a month." }, { "id": "t1_oop3xsy", "author": "/u/Legitimate_Mobile337", "updated": "2026-05-30T03:23:29+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/oop3xsy/", "content": "Trust me you wont want to go back to work and you will do anything before having too." }, { "id": "t1_oop6b3s", "author": "/u/iicybershotii", "updated": "2026-05-30T03:39:26+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/oop6b3s/", "content": "If you are passionate about something and have spent time developing yourself and your skills while you're FIRE'd then going back to work would be no problem. Who seriously expects to just jump back into the same misery they left and also expect the same pay?\n I'm in the events industry and when I FIRE I plan to look into a secondary career with more flexibility like something in nutrition or teaching English to native Spanish speakers. I know already, pre-FIRE, that I'll likely never earn what I earn now." }, { "id": "t1_oop6rsz", "author": "/u/MariSoumis", "updated": "2026-05-30T03:42:33+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/oop6rsz/", "content": "I was a SWE who got laid off in 2015 just weeks before having our first kiddo. I took it as an opportunity to leanFIRE. I did some minor consulting over the next few years, and things were going fine. Then my kiddo takes an IQ test as part of a psychological assessment. Suddenly we're looking at expensive private schools for elementary because they are literally that smart . I never thought I would feel like I owed my kid more than a solid public school education until I'm faced with the possibility that they could literally change the world.\n I lucked out in 2021 when one of my old supervisors was a VP and needed a senior developer. He knew how good I was, and got me an excellent job for the next 2.5 years. Until the CEO decided to outsource software engineering to Pakistan in 2024.\n No biggie. We thought we were done forever, so we should be better off now than we were then. Except we had allowed lifestyle inflation to happen. School, like I mentioned. Extracurriculars out the wazoo, and the bills that came along with them. Trips to international competitions. And while employed and easily able to afford it, we gave in to the hype and bought a brand new Tesla.\n 2 years later, it took me 6 months to find another job. Our tax-advantaged accounts look beautiful, but we've got about a year's worth of living expenses in our liquid assets. We always made just enough that I didn't feel comfortable pushing to ROTH ladder efforts because of the increased taxes. I never heard back on several interviews that I was overqualified for. But I did finally land a decent job. It pays about what I was making in 2015, al beit with better benefits.\n I don't know if I've proven your point, or countered it. Perhaps a bit of both?" }, { "id": "t1_oop6tgw", "author": "/u/Cornish_spex", "updated": "2026-05-30T03:42:52+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/oop6tgw/", "content": "I agree. I took several long breaks during the last 5-10 years of my career and had a few lucky breaks getting good roles, but it’s not the same.\n The bigger change is that I became free range and couldn’t handle being corralled by work. I also wasn’t afraid to voice my discontent." }, { "id": "t1_oop7j8z", "author": "/u/NeighborhoodStreet59", "updated": "2026-05-30T03:47:46+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/oop7j8z/", "content": "Honestly should just find a profession you love to do and have hella flexible hours" }, { "id": "t1_oop7z33", "author": "/u/NutNoPair88", "updated": "2026-05-30T03:50:43+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/oop7z33/", "content": "I agree in general, but Fire plans should already have a lot of resilience. In the worst case, I can work for a quarter of what I once made for 1-3 years to tide things over. If I need more than that we are a couple standard deviations past anything seen in the last 100 years." }, { "id": "t1_oop8fy1", "author": "/u/MetallicGray", "updated": "2026-05-30T03:53:55+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/oop8fy1/", "content": "I always thought the "go back to work to earn a bit extra" referred to non-career jobs or low end jobs that were semi related to your previous career. Like my dad managed a furniture plant, he retired, and now works just a couple days a week at a wood working shop. He makes like a fourth of what he did in his career job, but the point is to remove that stressor and to live your life, but still earn just a little. Maybe that's working at a Home Depot, or a plant shop, or a TCG/game shop, or a grocery store, or a crafts store, or any other simple job that is chill.\n Basically, a barista FIRE... That's what I always imagined people were referencing when they say going back to work or picking up extra work. I assume most people understand that when they leave their career job and take years off from it, then they're not going to be able to just waltz back in and pick up where they left off if they want to." }, { "id": "t1_oop8l8j", "author": "/u/Potential_Fondant185", "updated": "2026-05-30T03:54:55+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/oop8l8j/", "content": "so most people aren't actually fiRE, just fiWO... work optional... we need a FIWO thread" }, { "id": "t1_oop98fi", "author": "/u/sithren", "updated": "2026-05-30T03:59:17+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/oop98fi/", "content": "Gotta do the math and be comfortable with your number." }, { "id": "t1_oopa0h8", "author": "/u/Worf65", "updated": "2026-05-30T04:04:43+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/oopa0h8/", "content": "This is entirely the reason I'd stay on the conservative side of things. And in particularly bad economy like after 2008 even the minimum wage jobs with terrible hours get highly competitive. One of the biggest reasons I started saving extra in the first place was wanting to make sure I'd never have to be one of those 50 year old I was competing against for fast food jobs when I was 16 in 2008. Or the ones at the hob I did end up getting that paid a bit better. They were all working 80 hour weeks trying to stay afloat after losing much better jobs in the recession. They were at 64 or 72 hours on our schedule plus another 1-2 shifts at a different job. Pulling some double shifts was miserable enough at 20. I can't imagine having to do that long term when I'm old." }, { "id": "t1_oopa3j2", "author": "/u/SpecialistKoala9765", "updated": "2026-05-30T04:05:19+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/oopa3j2/", "content": "Totally agree which is one reason why I am still worried to pull the trigger. The only thing I see that exist for situation like this are consultant contractors who are hired for one project and just needed for direct work to complete that project and disband, many people in late 50s 60s are doing that now and I work with them. Im totally prepared to be demoted at work place into lowest job security if i ever FIRE. The mitigation action is just to keep professional licensing and do some part time volunteer if needed. I also make my withdrawal rate 3% in all my calculation as base case …. Then stress from there. I think 4% in research still is not safe enough for 30+ time horizon" }, { "id": "t1_oopbz4g", "author": "/u/No_Talent_8003", "updated": "2026-05-30T04:18:38+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/oopbz4g/", "content": "Clearly you're not retired. Cause you just wrote a book\n I retired for 2 years. Then a buddy started up their own company and I agreed to help him with it. It hasn't been easy, that brain reconfigured itself faster than one would expect. Im not gonna lie, theres a part of me that won't be too broken up if the small business mortality catches up to it and I get all my free time back" }, { "id": "t1_oopgbex", "author": "/u/YeahBuddy5000", "updated": "2026-05-30T04:50:28+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/oopgbex/", "content": "If you're sitting on 1.5 mil, just remember people have started successful businesses with far less. That money gives you options." }, { "id": "t1_oopgm97", "author": "/u/Happy-Requirement269", "updated": "2026-05-30T04:52:42+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/oopgm97/", "content": "Another viewpoint - would you personally hire someone that has a 10 year gap to work on your team or with you?" }, { "id": "t1_oophxn6", "author": "/u/DIY_GUY84", "updated": "2026-05-30T05:02:35+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/oophxn6/", "content": "Even 40k/yr income will dramatically offset SORR. One doesn't need to go back to a high paying, competitive job." }, { "id": "t1_oopiky3", "author": "/u/Salt-Detective1337", "updated": "2026-05-30T05:07:27+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/oopiky3/", "content": "I hear you on that last sentence. People often say if you wait you have just given up 1 year of freedom.\n Sure. But also now I get to spend a month in a resort every year because I have more than I expected." }, { "id": "t1_oopisjd", "author": "/u/BGM1988", "updated": "2026-05-30T05:09:04+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/oopisjd/", "content": "I would rather live frugal then instead of going back to the rat race when the stockmarket goes sideways for a long time. If i need to to a job it would be something low stress less paying that i find fun to do, not a stressful job fulltime. If you need that job again then it seems that your math was off or you did live on a large foot.." }, { "id": "t1_oopj510", "author": "/u/MajesticHippo94", "updated": "2026-05-30T05:11:44+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/oopj510/", "content": "I think the way to deal with this is to increase your emergency spending money to 2-3 years before you fire.\n Don’t draw down in a down turn or draw much less. Use savings, cut down spending and generate income if possible. Old job isn’t required; a side hustle, selling stuff etc can do it" }, { "id": "t1_oopjf99", "author": "/u/Eagle-watching", "updated": "2026-05-30T05:13:55+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/oopjf99/", "content": "Remember the markets in recent years have been great. We are not going to see years like this all the time.It gets easy to think the money will last long enough in these heady growth periods. Around 2019, we were looking at 5 to 6% a year as expected rate when S&P had averaged 9% long term.\n Also health care insurance costs are one item that has little to no cost controls and rises much faster than CPI inflation.\n Working a few more years now really helps you relax in the future about your NW." }, { "id": "t1_oopjscz", "author": "/u/Clutchcity94", "updated": "2026-05-30T05:16:43+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/oopjscz/", "content": "Someone who is fiscally responsible enough to FIRE can absolutely manage their spending to survive market down turn." }, { "id": "t1_oopkxhz", "author": "/u/JT91331", "updated": "2026-05-30T05:25:32+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/oopkxhz/", "content": "I don’t understand the post. If you can’t manage to retire on 2 million dollars then you have a spending problem not a savings problem. If you were truly pursuing early retirement your expenses should have already been low given that a majority of your income should have been going to savings.\n Even if there is a dip in the market like in 2008/9, the lesson from that experience was just to ride it, the market will rebound." }, { "id": "t1_oopmzh8", "author": "/u/253-build", "updated": "2026-05-30T05:41:55+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/oopmzh8/", "content": "Yeah. My FIRE will be cut to part time or start my own shop (common in my industry). Basically, I'll turn away all but my favorite clients." }, { "id": "t1_oopow8o", "author": "/u/CaesarsPleasers", "updated": "2026-05-30T05:57:23+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/oopow8o/", "content": "Good post" }, { "id": "t1_oopoygp", "author": "/u/IceCreamGamer", "updated": "2026-05-30T05:57:53+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/oopoygp/", "content": "I would say run the monte carlo and make sure your essentials are covered in the worse case scenarios. If your planned SWR included a lot of discretionary spending (international vacations(business class and higher), car upgrades, house renovations, kid's weddings), then you're plan is probably fine. If your SWR is covering bare essentials and nothing else (PovertyFire), then a serious medical issue and even during a strong BULL market could still set you back financially." }, { "id": "t1_ooppad3", "author": "/u/ggblah", "updated": "2026-05-30T06:00:31+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/ooppad3/", "content": "This is all very true. It is wild reading threads here where people think retiring on a tight budget when markets are at all time high is a good idea. If markets go down, your job prospects go down too.\n And reading this sub from outside of US it is honestly so mind blowing seeing how people treat everything with absolute political and economical certainty based on 100 years of prosperity. Thinking that current economic situation, yields, taxes etc can't be radically changed or redistributed in a very short time is oh boy naive. Like, what kind of ideas does new mayor of most important financial centre of the world has? And that's a mild example, whole world can be turned upside down in 10 years, you kinda want some space to maneuver at that point." }, { "id": "t1_oopq2uu", "author": "/u/Front_Knowledge_4383", "updated": "2026-05-30T06:06:52+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/oopq2uu/", "content": "this is why coastfire makes more sense for most people. you're right about the earning potential thing though - taking 5+ years off basically resets your career trajectory. the golden handcuffs are real but so is the lifestyle creep that makes fire feel necessary in the first place." }, { "id": "t1_ooptbem", "author": "/u/LeviXC", "updated": "2026-05-30T06:33:26+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/ooptbem/", "content": "I live in France, just outside Monaco, and I see a lot of people who have reached their FIRE number, along with plenty who are genuinely wealthy. Around here, roughly one in three people are millionaires.\n The people who seem to thrive long-term are the ones who keep creating value. Maybe it’s remote work, real estate deals, investing, consulting, or some other project, but they’re always building something.\n Then there’s another group living entirely off their FIRE target. As prices rise, exchange rates move against them, and taxes become more burdensome, they slowly get squeezed into poverty. What many don’t realize is that a FIRE number isn’t a fixed destination. It’s more like driving a stake into a river while the water keeps rising. If you stop adapting, eventually the river overtakes you." }, { "id": "t1_oopv0y9", "author": "/u/himynameis_", "updated": "2026-05-30T06:47:35+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/oopv0y9/", "content": "Very true. Which is why I think the FIRE number should have a high margin of safety if you're retiring young.\n $2.5M doesn't cut it imo. Might just be me. I'd want a really high number to be very sure." }, { "id": "t1_oopzvm6", "author": "/u/mydknyght79", "updated": "2026-05-30T07:28:20+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/oopzvm6/", "content": "I did manual labor (farming) for 4 years and retail for 7 years before getting a Masters degree and increasing my salary significantly. Farming was hard work and I’d never do it again, but retail was fun and great for my social life, although the work was fast paced. It pays a lot worse yes, but minimum wage is $20 in Seattle and half time would cover any shortfall I’d possibly run into since I only live on ~$50k. I get that high earners with lots of obligations have to be more careful, but waiting until my plan has a 99% chance of success seems not worth it when I have plenty of other things I’d rather do with my life. Working part time in a retail job in a pinch doesn’t bother me one bit." }, { "id": "t1_ooq4qb7", "author": "/u/klawUK", "updated": "2026-05-30T08:10:15+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/ooq4qb7/", "content": "One of the issues is the echo chamber. A lot of fire proponents and influencers are high earners and live in a bubble that is unrealistic for a lot of people. ‘Just go into consulting for fewer hours’ - that ‘just’ is doing a lot of heavy lifting there and people risk forming expectations that may well not be there\n Using ‘just go back into part time work’ or consulting is arguable a higher risk as a defensive strategy than any asset allocation or too high a cash buffer\n If you’re remotely on the fence, then one more year (or one more six months even) can make more sense than relying on getting a high paid job later on. But if minimum wage is enough then that’s a simpler lift" }, { "id": "t1_ooq79aw", "author": "/u/fortinbrass1993", "updated": "2026-05-30T08:32:43+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/ooq79aw/", "content": "I can just go back to work. Any time I want.\n Not everyone has the same situation. In my case, I can just go back to work. And will get the same pay.\n I’m in a union, as long as I keep paying my dues when I decided to “retire” I can go back to work by getting on the books. (Like getting in line waiting for a job).\n But I figure 99% of the people in fire communities aren’t trade people. They don’t work for a union and do not get jobs by getting on a list for “out of work people” and wait for a phone call from the union hall.\n So I’m this case then yes, people who left their jobs can’t just go back.\n But this doesn’t mean I’m careless about my numbers. I still do the math but if it works, it works. And there are outliers like always but if you have a safety net, just pull the plug and live life lady and gents.\n Cheers mate." }, { "id": "t1_ooq7qs6", "author": "/u/Murmurmira", "updated": "2026-05-30T08:37:01+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/ooq7qs6/", "content": "The trick is to live in a heavily taxed country. In Belgium, a top 10% earner earns only twice more than a minimum wage worker. Taxes equalize everyone" }, { "id": "t1_ooqajoy", "author": "/u/SuperStillness", "updated": "2026-05-30T09:01:57+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/ooqajoy/", "content": "This is exactly why I don’t agree with the messaging from the “Everyone should take lots of mini retirements!” Books, podcasts, talking heads, etc.\n “Just take a year off and try it!”\n “You can always find another job!”\n Yeah, no thanks lady. If it’s that easy and wonderful why are you busting your ass trying to sell your book?" }, { "id": "t1_ooqcxc3", "author": "/u/LooneyBalloney69", "updated": "2026-05-30T09:23:28+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/ooqcxc3/", "content": "As I recall, the point of FIRE was to save enough money so that you can live off the returns you get off the market.\n Example: if you need 50k per year and if the markets returns 4% per year, you need 50k x 25 (100%/4%) = 1.25 million.\n Markets can underperform some years and overperform some years but it averages out in the long run. So drop additional 250k in just so you can be safe.\n About the bucket list things to do, you need separate budget for these IMO. If you plan to visit 3 places around the world per year and if every trip costs you 3k on average, you need around 10k for trips. Following the same logic as above, you need 10k x 25 = 250k investments in the market reserved just for trips.\n That's my 2 cents." }, { "id": "t1_ooqj7ar", "author": "/u/Delta_Arc419", "updated": "2026-05-30T10:17:59+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/ooqj7ar/", "content": "That’s why the answer usually isn’t “retire early” but go part time or consult. Most people don’t really want to retire, they just want more time/freedom and an extended break to kick it off." }, { "id": "t1_ooqkhnv", "author": "/u/sc1lurker", "updated": "2026-05-30T10:28:43+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/ooqkhnv/", "content": "When I retired, I knew that was it, I'm never gonna be able to find work again even if I wanted to. The Rubicon has been crossed. And yes, a down year(s) in the stock market can definitely fuck up your early retirement.\n I'm convinced, both as a matter of finance and piece of mind, that you need cash flow, enough cash flow that you're actually still saving and investing the excess cash in retirement. So I rely on rental properties for cash flow, to which access cash outside of an emergency fund is invested to keep growing.\n Otherwise, life is spent walking on thin ice." }, { "id": "t1_ooqlwfp", "author": "/u/LouSevens", "updated": "2026-05-30T10:40:23+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/ooqlwfp/", "content": "I totally agree- partly because in some instances there could be some sort of bias to someone with a gap- not always though. I left a toxic job to take care of a family member (and I knew NOTHING about FIRE at the time) and knew I wasn't just going to be able to automatically get the same salary back.\n However, at some point I decided not to go back to the shit job and realized time was more important than money. I have to be careful, because if I say why I was off if they hear I have a parent in assisted living they will think I am old and I will get discriminated against. If I am careful and word it better I will appear younger.\n In any case, anyone can google me or whatever and get m age.\n With the market upturn the last year, had I continued working during that time I of couse would have had more $ but I don't regret anything for a minute . My health mentally wasn't good." }, { "id": "t1_ooqqr8e", "author": "/u/Prize-Leading-6653", "updated": "2026-05-30T11:17:21+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/ooqqr8e/", "content": "This. A lot of it is opportunity cost." }, { "id": "t1_ooqx4wx", "author": "/u/Baker5889", "updated": "2026-05-30T12:01:01+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/ooqx4wx/", "content": "At the end of the day: if retirees can live on just social security then any FIRE can live off of whatever they saved up. Can they live like a CEO in California? No. Just adjust your life to fit reality and stop the golf memberships and brunch martinis you don't need 🫡\n Instead of getting your job back: start living in the real (not extremely rich) world." }, { "id": "t1_ooqxu97", "author": "/u/green_sky74", "updated": "2026-05-30T12:05:33+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/ooqxu97/", "content": "Also, if you have been experiencing bad returns, you are not alone. And there are fewer jobs available because the economy is bad.\n Many people chasing few jobs equals low wages and higher unemployment.\n OMY is not a bad idea." }, { "id": "t1_ooqyfjb", "author": "/u/gregaustex", "updated": "2026-05-30T12:09:19+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/ooqyfjb/", "content": "you can't get your old job back if its been more than a few years.\n I could nitpick your examples but agree this is 80% true, and 80% true is true enough, and people need to hear it." }, { "id": "t1_ooqywn0", "author": "/u/coloradoRay", "updated": "2026-05-30T12:12:20+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/ooqywn0/", "content": "10 years is a long time. I agree that it would be tough to turn it off completely for a decade then get back in.\n as a counterpoint: you don't have to turn it off completely. I FIRE'd this year and had an unsolicited job offer for chill admin work within a month. I started a consulting business and have been consulting part time. I've been working on an app. it would be pretty easy to ramp those up." }, { "id": "t1_oor1jut", "author": "/u/bunrieu4BLD", "updated": "2026-05-30T12:28:45+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/oor1jut/", "content": "i didn't read this but agree with the title, and try to mention this as often as possible SURE there are edge cases - specific fields, relationships you can leverage but for the most part ageism-industry passing you by prevents you from getting a similar, high paying job if you've been out. this is also why i think baristafire/coastfire (at least the definitions i know) are utterly stupid. fire should be all or nothing." }, { "id": "t1_oor1kh0", "author": "/u/Mission-Push-1475", "updated": "2026-05-30T12:28:52+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/oor1kh0/", "content": "I did" }, { "id": "t1_oor2o08", "author": "/u/According_Ad_1960", "updated": "2026-05-30T12:35:36+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/oor2o08/", "content": "You need to”more than enough” to pull the trigger - I’ll never understand doing it with “just barely enough” coupled with hope nothing details it." }, { "id": "t1_oor2tv8", "author": "/u/Starship_Albatross", "updated": "2026-05-30T12:36:34+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/oor2tv8/", "content": "You're not wrong, but people aren't saying you can get your old job back, they're saying fire doesn't have to be permanent. And if you can reasonably fire now, then having another job later (even with a paycut) shouldn't ruin you.\n You also mention making 250k - which always reminds me of the insane differences in economic outlook there are between countries. For me (42, in an expensive country, Denmark, but single and low expenses, high social safety/security) $250k is half my fire number - and I might pull the plug sooner. $500k (networth, after taxes) is where I feel pretty sure I could make it 4-5 decades.\n And I'm currently a machinist, so there is a fair demand - even though the pay isn't massive. (Knowledge in CS/SWE is highly applicable in many fields.)\n Not much in life comes with >99% certainty, so that just creates extra barriers to ever fire-ing.\n "Blow an extra 100k on fun"??? I had to double check I wasn't in a fatfire sub." }, { "id": "t1_oor3f4u", "author": "/u/ClearSkyyes", "updated": "2026-05-30T12:40:06+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/oor3f4u/", "content": "No one says you can go back to you old job, but you absolutely can go back to work at a different job. What a ridiculous post.\n If you want to stay in jail (working your current job) bc the very tiny chance that you might need to work again somewhere doing something is just too scary for you to handle, stay in jail. But pretending that working at all in any capacity somewhere is not possible is laughably dumb. Assuming that this unlikely future jail will be worse than your current jail is just letting your fear control you. That's your choice, but it's not a great way to go through life." }, { "id": "t1_oor3oca", "author": "/u/Affectionate-Till362", "updated": "2026-05-30T12:41:38+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/oor3oca/", "content": "I parallel your thoughts: I would despise to go through a barrage of interviews if I Fire’d and were out of work for more than 1 year. It’s months of high stress interviewing, performance at a new job, as well that could be avoided with less stress. The idea people end with extra is that it’s also less stressful to live life knowing your cushion isn’t going to zero.\n On the flip side, there are open opportunities to change your life style: eat, travel even worst case where you live? You own a home, you could sell. You live in a high cost area? Sell and move somewhere cheaper. Rent your place and live somewhere cheaper. Sell off an extra car. Get a part time job doing something totally different. Start your own business.\n Personally; I’m an engineer, 43 married with 2 kids. I want to still ‘work’ but for only things I’m truly passionate about. So the FI at least gives me the parachute to explore nearly anything, the RE is perhaps coast and take more breaks but I don’t want to give up work forever" }, { "id": "t1_oor4do6", "author": "/u/FIREful_symmetry", "updated": "2026-05-30T12:45:48+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/oor4do6/", "content": "Well, you have an assumption here that you have to earn a high salary in order to be putting away a lot of money in your nest. You could also get a lower salary to just career expenses and then go from fi back to coastfi" }, { "id": "t1_oor4lws", "author": "/u/Timmy98789", "updated": "2026-05-30T12:47:11+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/oor4lws/", "content": "Best part about knowing a trade and being a qualified journeyman, you can go back." }, { "id": "t1_oor4pl9", "author": "/u/Fluffy-Mud-8945", "updated": "2026-05-30T12:47:47+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/oor4pl9/", "content": "10 years pass of below average (not terrible, just not great) market returns while you've been doing all your bucket list items you don't want to put off until you're too old. That $2 million starting amount is now only $1.5 million.\n How are you getting average market returns and losing $50k per year? What the fuck? If your account is rapidly dwindling with average returns, you're not remotely ready to retire. I would have hoped that is obvious." }, { "id": "t1_oor6h88", "author": "/u/Realestateuniverse", "updated": "2026-05-30T12:58:01+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/oor6h88/", "content": "I think you are overestimating the competency of the general job market population. Sure you might not find a 6 figure tech job again in 10 years, but most high earners will have above average skills, I.e. critical thinking, people skills, communication, initiative, management. Then you should have no problem getting a job that pays at least 65-80k to weather a down year." }, { "id": "t1_oor6phn", "author": "/u/BarefootMarauder", "updated": "2026-05-30T12:59:19+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/oor6phn/", "content": "10 years pass of below average (not terrible, just not great) market returns while you've been doing all your bucket list items you don't want to put off until you're too old. That $2 million starting amount is now only $1.5 million\n That math isn't mathing for me... Even roughly following a 4% WR, and having slightly below average market returns, you should have more than $1.5M after 10 years. I guess you'd have to more accurately define "not terrible, just not great".\n In the 2 years I've been retired, our portfolio has grown by 8X what I used to earn when I was working. We're operating on a ~3.4% WR, and I've got ~5 years worth of living expenses in cash-equivalents. That gives us a lot of extra wiggle room and ability to sleep well at night even if we go into an extended bear market. My wife will start drawing SS early next year, so that further reduces what we need to pull from our portfolio. I don't anticipate ever needing (or wanting) to go back to work." }, { "id": "t1_oor7a0m", "author": "/u/GambledMyWifeAway", "updated": "2026-05-30T13:02:39+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/oor7a0m/", "content": "This is very dependent on your field. I work in healthcare. I could stop now and do nothing for a decade and have no issue finding as little or as much work as I wanted." }, { "id": "t1_oor7dt0", "author": "/u/nostrademons", "updated": "2026-05-30T13:03:16+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/oor7dt0/", "content": "So for the record, I have never hunted for a job when I had one, and I’ve always doubled my compensation every time I’ve gone back to work (going on 4 times now). And this was in software/IT.\n What you say about your skills getting out of date and the company changing is true. But what I did in response was change faster than the company . Every single one of those jobs was different. The first one was first web and then Java Swing development for a startup that pivoted 4 times in the year I was there, from a teen content .com to lockdown desktops for schools to remote access for schools to corporate remote access (like an early type of VPN, in the days before VPNs were popular). The second one was high performance computing for quant hedge funds. The third was being a UI SWE (which in those days meant JavaScript & C++) for Google search. The fourth was going back to Google as an Area TL and then a manager.\n I think your approach to getting a job is backwards, and that’s why you’re worried about it being risky. Instead of asking “who will give me a job?”, ask “what does the economy need right now, and how does this industry work?” Then go learn all about it, and give the employer what they want . I am not a fixed cog in the wheel, broken and useless once that wheel becomes obsolete. I am whatever I need to be, and can rapidly learn enough to be productive in whatever field happens to be hot right now. And then it doesn’t matter if the employer will train me up, I’ll do the training myself and shop it to a bunch of employers and let them bid against each other." }, { "id": "t1_oor7fnt", "author": "/u/Banned3rdTimesaCharm", "updated": "2026-05-30T13:03:33+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/oor7fnt/", "content": "If the market flat lines for 10 years, the world has bigger problems. We'd likely be in the kind of financial situation that changes the world order." }, { "id": "t1_oor7n3m", "author": "/u/Chicken121260", "updated": "2026-05-30T13:04:44+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/oor7n3m/", "content": "Generally agree, but it does depend how long you are out of work and what you have been doing in the meantime.\n If you can stay active in a consulting-type role in your field, even only working 10 hours a week, you could stay current. But if you sat on the sidelines for 3 years, it would be very difficult if not impossible to go back at the same level as when you quit." }, { "id": "t1_oor871i", "author": "/u/commoncents1", "updated": "2026-05-30T13:07:53+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/oor871i/", "content": "I've found when you hit your number, it's easier to work, takes stress off knowing you can quit when you want to, I enjoy my work though even with some stress that comes with it" }, { "id": "t1_oor9mlv", "author": "/u/DarkBert900", "updated": "2026-05-30T13:16:00+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/oor9mlv/", "content": "There are a couple of factors. First off, people pursuing finance typically have high financial anxiety and high job fragility. Secondly, they typically have good earning potential, but that potential indeed needs nurturing. Regardless if you leanFIRE to then come back to the workforce, or if you BaristaFIRE to do a 'low pressure job', many people will run their finances tight if they ragequit in their peak earning years.\n For those who chubby- or FatFIRE, the risk is likely lower and they will retire later with fatter careers to leave behind. I also think that there are people who can get away with 'consulting' or 'non-exec' jobs longer, because they have been business owners and people with better professional networks than the leanFIRE SWE-type who was a relatively nobody when he left in his early 30s.\n I think you need to be realistic if you plan to ever budget for returning to work. It might be manual labor, driving for Uber, hauling for Deliveroo, working at a store. There is no such thing as a professional job where your skills >10 years out of the workforce will want to hire you, regardless of the job market or the economy. So if you plan to return back to work, realistically you can only get a minimum wage job and you won't get the respect you are used to. So it needs to be a low chance, not a likely chance, of you budgeting for that." }, { "id": "t1_oora539", "author": "/u/jeffeb3", "updated": "2026-05-30T13:18:51+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/oora539/", "content": "Here's another scenario: You work for one more year, earn $250k, which turns into $500k before you die. But you never spend any of it. You worked that year for free." }, { "id": "t1_oorcawd", "author": "/u/SouthernZorro", "updated": "2026-05-30T13:30:42+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/oorcawd/", "content": "I delayed retiring for two years sol I could be absolutely, 100% sure I wouldn't need to go back to work ever." }, { "id": "t1_oordo49", "author": "/u/db11242", "updated": "2026-05-30T13:38:16+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/oordo49/", "content": "And yet people get jobs every day. Keep your fixed mindset to yourself. Best of luck." }, { "id": "t1_oorecxy", "author": "/u/Aram_Fingal", "updated": "2026-05-30T13:41:58+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/oorecxy/", "content": "Let them quit and remove themselves from the market. Makes the rest of us more valuable." }, { "id": "t1_oorfsqx", "author": "/u/CelticNomad95", "updated": "2026-05-30T13:49:41+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/oorfsqx/", "content": "This is why I like nursing and healthcare in general despite all the very real negatives. It’s easy to do PRN or travel nursing in order to utilize partial FIRE if the market goes south. The ageism you reference isn’t (for the most part) prevalent in healthcare like it is in many other fields." }, { "id": "t1_oorfw48", "author": "/u/Impressive_Job8321", "updated": "2026-05-30T13:50:11+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/oorfw48/", "content": "Most young people speak of retirement as an escape hatch out of their (questionably) toxic workplace or bosses. That kind of escapism thinking isn’t going to fly in the long term, that is, beyond the making immediate escape from life and personal situation, because the absence of problem is not happiness, it’s a road towards emptiness and lack of purpose, connection to the world, and mind and body seclusion.\n Instead, the right mindset for young people trying to get out of the rat race is to leapfrog to a more purposeful, more aligned version of living. Doesn’t mean the hustle has stopped, just a change of scenery, people, hours and type of activity. Nobody I know is doing long term, multi decade constant 365 days travel escapism. Indeed the thought of that is a very intoxicating draw, but physically, mentally and financially, it’s not something you can sustain. If you feel like that dumping your job and travelling is the only missing piece of your life, you haven’t done enough soul searching to find your true purpose, I’ll either tell you that now, or you’ll realize it after you’ve gotten through the novelty of it." }, { "id": "t1_oorjwy1", "author": "/u/Left_Act_1", "updated": "2026-05-30T14:11:30+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/oorjwy1/", "content": "100%. I never understood the “you can just return if needed” answer to uncertainty. Getting any decent job is very tough nowadays. Much smarter to keep working until your numbers are truly solid." }, { "id": "t1_oorkaoy", "author": "/u/Kinnins0n", "updated": "2026-05-30T14:13:30+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/oorkaoy/", "content": "oh look another thread of r/Fire begging people not to FIRE.\n what the heck happened to this sub. feels like it’s just a meetup for corporate slaves who need to be reassured they are right to never leave." }, { "id": "t1_oormlhp", "author": "/u/Ok-Neighborhood-566", "updated": "2026-05-30T14:25:16+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/oormlhp/", "content": "Hopefully when you fire, you got Fuck you money such that you never need to go back to THAT job. That's the whole point." }, { "id": "t1_oormm1n", "author": "/u/OceansTwentyOne", "updated": "2026-05-30T14:25:21+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/oormm1n/", "content": "Maybe I’m deluded, but over 35 years of working, I switched careers about 6 times, each time working back up to a good salary. You don’t need to go back to peak earnings to make up a shortfall." }, { "id": "t1_oorn3z2", "author": "/u/mirageofstars", "updated": "2026-05-30T14:27:54+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/oorn3z2/", "content": "I feel the solution to this is have the ability to really shrink down your expenses in retirement. If you retire living a lush life but would also be happy living simply, then you’re in better shape than the retiree who had to keep up with the Joneses.\n IIRC I read something where people often oversave because they don’t realize that the typical retirement spend goes down past 70-75 … your energy drops, you lose interest in big vacations and travel, and you’re more content to be at home with friends or family and keep up with smaller hobbies." }, { "id": "t1_oornby3", "author": "/u/EddieA1028", "updated": "2026-05-30T14:29:01+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/oornby3/", "content": "I agree with you that you have to be careful with pulling the trigger for the reasons you mentioned, but when it comes time for me to pull the trigger, my back up plan isn’t getting back into some sort of similar job that I did. I’ll just Barista FIRE into something that makes less, but stops the bleeding, and I can maybe enjoy a little bit (or at least is less stressful since I’ve been retired)." }, { "id": "t1_oornc3f", "author": "/u/paq12x", "updated": "2026-05-30T14:29:02+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/oornc3f/", "content": "On a different perspective:\n I know a few people who love to travel but are not in physical condition to enjoy it.\n You can't enjoy walking the Great Wall of China in your 60s. You'll worry about getting a heat stroke inside the Pyramids if you are in your 60s. I know I am exaggerating, but you know what I mean.\n The worst thing is getting diagnosed with something that would lower your quality of life in your golden years (parkinson, alzheimer, cancer, etc.), and your money means very little by then.\n If you enjoy your job, one more year is not that big of a deal. If you hate your job, then one more year carries a higher risk of a stroke or heart attack that derails your plan forever.\n The way I look at it. Slow travel to less expensive countries in the early phase of retirement is a great way to reduce SORR. I wouldn't mind spending a year or 3 rotating between SEA, Latin America, or the south of France (not cheap but not expensive) to control my withdrawal rate.\n Running from the lions in the Safari, scuba diving off the coast of Australia, or experiencing free-fall at Palm Dropzone feel very different when you are in your late 40s vs 60s.\n I'll save the trip to visit temples in Nepal for later years." }, { "id": "t1_oorxtfz", "author": "/u/Stapleybob", "updated": "2026-05-30T15:21:29+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/oorxtfz/", "content": "Spot on. Back to work for most is heading to a services based, low wage role." }, { "id": "t1_oory4kb", "author": "/u/Slug_Overdose", "updated": "2026-05-30T15:23:01+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/oory4kb/", "content": "I agree, but this is just one issue in a vacuum. Most people FIRE because they’re at least in some major way dissatisfied with their work situation. Thus, I don’t think it makes sense to suggest they would only be going back to the same thing. Most likely, they would pick something new they were interested in, and they don’t care about long-term potential or even peak earnings. If they were truly that close to FIRE to be only moderately off with their projections, it really wouldn’t take much to reach their new number. If they just didn’t have realistic projections at all or lacked flexibility to adjust spending as necessary, then that’s kind of on them for planning poorly." }, { "id": "t1_oos1srb", "author": "/u/CoffeeIsForEveryone", "updated": "2026-05-30T15:41:18+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/oos1srb/", "content": "Great points but how do you know when you are 99% sure?" }, { "id": "t1_oos21hx", "author": "/u/CautiousAd1305", "updated": "2026-05-30T15:42:30+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/oos21hx/", "content": "Absolutely agree, for nearly all high paying positions. If you spend even 2-3 years not working, especially after 50 years old, then returning to work can be difficult if not almost impossible and will almost certainly come at a significant pay cut.\n That said, if you were able to save consistently and have a solid fire plan, you will likely have flexibility in your spending and even small changes like reduced spending of say 5% for a few years can make a big difference in the overall outcome.\n The back to work is more for those people that have a plan that has maybe 50-75% probability for success and want to throw a Hail Mary and see if they get lucky with SORR early on." }, { "id": "t1_oos2v8f", "author": "/u/gizmole", "updated": "2026-05-30T15:46:36+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/oos2v8f/", "content": "This is definitely my dilemma. I'm in Tech, and absolutely no way I'd get rehired after a year or two out of the field. I would have to work some miserable retail job. No thanks!" }, { "id": "t1_oos30lh", "author": "/u/MiketheTzar", "updated": "2026-05-30T15:47:20+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/oos30lh/", "content": "I had a former FIRE devotee work with me at Lowe's about a decade back. He was back in the work force in a similar situation (although his was because his daughter was a massive liability). He went from being a department lead at IBM for a specific version of a programming language that did something with industrial machines to a guy who sold ceiling fans." }, { "id": "t1_oos5lvk", "author": "/u/Terrible_Biscotti374", "updated": "2026-05-30T16:00:01+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/oos5lvk/", "content": "Leaving the industry for an extended period also means you lose key personal connections. This includes the leaders/managers who retire themselves-- the ones who would be willing to go out on a limb and rehire you (or at least vouch for you).\n Many on this forum are go-getters. For me, although I'm in my 30s, my peers/equivalents in my organization and industry are typically 50+. If I were to leave for 10 years, all my key industry connections would be retired. I'd have to rebuild that network and prove my value all over again. I'd rather just wait it out and not have a gap in my career that requires a reset. It ruins both your retirement and career trajectories." }, { "id": "t1_oos8g7y", "author": "/u/western_usa", "updated": "2026-05-30T16:13:49+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/oos8g7y/", "content": "I agree with you. While I like to think that I could just get some "enjoyable" part time gig if necessary, the reality is things will be competitive, and many of the fun jobs in life are done by young people, not getting paid much, or receiving any health benefits... it would be painful to get paid minimum wage or some break even job after factoring in commute. It is definitely worth while to plan and play it safe rather than sorry." }, { "id": "t1_oosauhw", "author": "/u/BalanceOfRisks", "updated": "2026-05-30T16:25:44+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/oosauhw/", "content": "One word… quiet quitting" }, { "id": "t1_oosfu3s", "author": "/u/200Zucchini", "updated": "2026-05-30T16:49:52+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/oosfu3s/", "content": "I don't want my old job back. I was super burned out in that line of work. That was the point.\n I don't think 99% certainty is realistic. Sure, all the simulations say "100% chance of success." But that's all based on past sequences, and we don't know the future. We can just get to a reasonable withdrawal rate and stay flexible for whatever comes." }, { "id": "t1_oosg59z", "author": "/u/yellowflash171", "updated": "2026-05-30T16:51:19+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/oosg59z/", "content": "I need this as a 2 hour long AI voiceover" }, { "id": "t1_oosgeox", "author": "/u/Sea_Particular9266", "updated": "2026-05-30T16:52:33+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/oosgeox/", "content": "One option I’ve seen a few old timers do is to subsidize your hobbies with retail work in that field. Anecdotally; fishing tackle and archery equipment. Old dudes spend a few hours a week working a store, get to socialize and interact with like-minded customers and then spend a good portion of their paycheck buying gear from the employer at cost. It is pretty niche and certainly not for everyone but has a lot of upside." }, { "id": "t1_oosgno0", "author": "/u/DehydratedButTired", "updated": "2026-05-30T16:53:42+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/oosgno0/", "content": "The market is a mix of ageism, too much expertise and a lack of living wage opportunities for people in your case. There’s always a risk in retirement, Fire or no." }, { "id": "t1_ooslk46", "author": "/u/ErinFiqsette", "updated": "2026-05-30T17:16:31+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/ooslk46/", "content": "Confirm....recruiters/HR people think you were really in prison, or hiding something, if you have a gap on your resume longer than a few months...you're damaged goods, and a risk to hire.\n It is inconceivable to them that anybody could or would actually attempt to retire early, or even be self-employed, and not be employed by somebody else." }, { "id": "t1_oosuk6m", "author": "/u/quasistoic", "updated": "2026-05-30T17:58:54+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/oosuk6m/", "content": "I enjoy software engineering much more when I’m not doing it for money. Keeping up with changes in tech isn’t that hard if you actually enjoy what you’re doing - in fact, I think it’s easier when I’m not at a job in a company where the tech choices have largely calcified anyway. I also don’t think it would be difficult to supplement my income with part-time SWE work if I needed - I don’t need anyone to hire me, I can make products directly.\n Everyone’s life has a different shape. Your experiences aren’t everyone else’s, and neither are mine." }, { "id": "t1_oot11mj", "author": "/u/No-Amphibian8115", "updated": "2026-05-30T18:29:40+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/oot11mj/", "content": "Yeah, I added 4-5 years for this reason. I refuse to get caught in the "one more year" cycle, so I made a clear goal. So far so good. Fingers crossed that any upcoming market correction isn't as nasty as 2008's" }, { "id": "t1_oot2l3f", "author": "/u/Binders-Full", "updated": "2026-05-30T18:37:24+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/oot2l3f/", "content": "I doubt any of the FIRE types are going to leave so little to end up on welfare or food stamps though. If you were a licensed professional, it would be stupid to not keep the continuing education requirements. I would try to fix as many expenses as possible like housing and cars. You will have the bucket list experiences and worst comes to worse could move to a lower COL area." }, { "id": "t1_oot5mky", "author": "/u/After-Regret-6609", "updated": "2026-05-30T18:52:19+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/oot5mky/", "content": "If you are in your 30s today, one of the above is certainly going to happen by the time you’re 100 (not all, just one):\n\n- A major war\n- Another pandemic\n- Climate catastrophe\n- Population crisis\n- The rise or fall of a major political ideology Etc.\n There’s no certainty at all that the current economic system will survive your life. Your grandparents lived through world wars, nuclear weapons, and communism. You’ve already survived a pandemic. Don’t pretend the world is stable.\n So IMO, don’t burn your money, but don’t treat it as stable. Maintain your skills. It might keep you out of the trenches someday. Enjoy money and the current economic system if it’s benefiting you. Don’t pretend tomorrow is guarenteed." }, { "id": "t1_oot9u23", "author": "/u/jdsizzle1", "updated": "2026-05-30T19:11:54+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/oot9u23/", "content": "Getting a job "for a little extra money" isnt going back to your full time career for the same money. Youre basically describing un-FIRE'ing. Getting a job to make up the difference means getting like a part time job or driving uber" }, { "id": "t1_ootagyo", "author": "/u/ArrierosSemos", "updated": "2026-05-30T19:14:51+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/ootagyo/", "content": "If all goes well, I will hit my FI number when I’m 45. I won’t RE then, I will “take my foot off the gas”\n Then, at 50, either I will retire or the market will retire me (also a possibility)." }, { "id": "t1_ootaock", "author": "/u/BasilVegetable3339", "updated": "2026-05-30T19:15:49+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/ootaock/", "content": "Retired financial advisor. It’s not just FIRE disciples. So many people retire a few years early not fully understanding the consequences of being “a little short” of their projections. Or the long term impact if “well my wife really deserved a new kitchen”. Once income flow stops it never resets to where it was." }, { "id": "t1_ootbshg", "author": "/u/Bike_Lumpy", "updated": "2026-05-30T19:21:10+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/ootbshg/", "content": "100% agreed. However, if I FIRE from my current role - my goal isn’t to ‘not do anything’ - it’s to keep doing what I love, and make albeit lesser money, because awesome things pay lesser, but the goal ideally is to never go ‘back’ again. This is if I’m to put myself in a FIRE position, however I’m not sure if that’s even on the horizon for me in my life.\n It’s a privilege to be able to FIRE." }, { "id": "t1_ootgt2z", "author": "/u/Sea-Obligation-2212", "updated": "2026-05-30T19:46:16+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/ootgt2z/", "content": "If I need to go back to work after I fire I would look for a job doing laundry at an animal shelter (or similar).\n Maybe custodian at the airport or helping those that need help getting to the aircraft in thise wheelchairs and work my way up to a golf cart." }, { "id": "t1_ooti9wm", "author": "/u/MyFIREprofile", "updated": "2026-05-30T19:53:42+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/ooti9wm/", "content": "I think it's pretty industry dependent. My wife's profession and professional credentials/licensing offers a lot of leeway in regards to part-time consulting and/or set your own hours self-employment.\n But if I were to quit, there's not much out there for people wanting to work part time. I could find another gig, but the expectation would be full-time work. I can think of a few ways I could sell my institutional knowledge in a consulting role, but I have no desire to hustle for clients. I'd rather just work a little longer at my full salary and benefits." }, { "id": "t1_ootj346", "author": "/u/mi3chaels", "updated": "2026-05-30T19:57:51+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/ootj346/", "content": "I mean, you're right that you can't just roll back 5-10 years and get a similar job in most cases, but I can't possibly agree with you that it's as bad as you say. Because I'm somebody who went through it, in the aftermath of the GFC. I had some software chops and CS/IT experience, but nobody was interested, even though some of it was recent, because I'd been at my own (or my parent's) company for 20 years. I would have found something eventually, but instead of beating my head against that I switched to something else entirely that was interesting and I had no issue getting hired because it was all commission. I could afford to do this and make very little for a while because I had savings (as would any sane person going back to work because their portfolio had dropped -- they aren't going to wait until it's almost gone).\n Yes, you'll have jobs you don't get because you're "overqualified" and yet you won't be qualified enough or currently enough for the jobs that look like they fit your prior experience. But that doesn't mean you're doomed to working for low wages forever. Any job that expects a steep learning curve will try you and if you fail you fail. And somebody will eventually hire you because you hit them right for some job that is below you and will maybe suck, but if you look and pay attention, you can find your way eventually to somebody who appreciates a lot of your general people/business/organizational skills -- which you almost have to have to have made a lot of money in your prior career.\n Will it take longer than most people want? Yes, absolutely. Will it suck for a while, compared to working an extra few years at your old job to put yourself beyond this risk. Maybe, even probably if you didn't really dislike/hate your old job and/or don't get a fairly lucky on the reentry. But it only happens some of the time. The rest of time, you RE and never look back.\n If you're considering REing with a 5% WR and can't cut that much, yeah buckle up and get ready, and if you don't really hate your job, you should just keep it for a bit.\n But when you get to 4%, there are a lot of smooth sailing futures, especially if you can cut even 10-20% in bad scenarios. And at something like 3%, it's only out of sample catastrophes that could plausibly bring your plan down. If RE is going to be a big QOL improvement, you should just do it." }, { "id": "t1_ootjrlm", "author": "/u/Jackms64", "updated": "2026-05-30T20:01:21+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/ootjrlm/", "content": "This is entirely an individual thing. Some folks can hop back into their world and a similar job pretty easily, some can’t. It is completely dependent on industry and job type. I’ve been retired for 6 years now and still turn down opportunities to go back in.. But the core idea of being able to adjust expenses is dead on. I worry about the leanfire folks—they don’t have much room to move down during a recession or worse, a long period of stagflation. We could reduce our outgo pretty dramatically if needed… however, I really don’t want to do that.. 😝" }, { "id": "t1_ootpmjo", "author": "/u/TomorrowPlenty9205", "updated": "2026-05-30T20:31:32+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/ootpmjo/", "content": "Part of this is true, but a lot would only apply to some tech and people very high up. But look, if you retire early for a job that pays $500K and you are looking to retire with $2M, you are insane. I am not a huge fan of the "one more year" but if that one year will increase your FIRE number by 25% and you where going lean with 4%. Yes, one more year and you can retire at 3% where you have almost zero chance of failure. Also, there is nothing wrong with working one more year if you want a better (most costly) lifestyle in retirement that also has more ability to reduce spending if things go bad.\n Ei, if you could reasonable live off $80K and anything under $70K would be hard, retiring at $2M, if things go bad and the market is halved and stay at only inflation for the follow 4 years. You will end up at $650K and then even if the market average 10% over inflation for the next few years, you are loosing money. The same thing with $2.5K, you can spend $100K but you can still drop to $70K, the same thing drops you to $900K and you can keep your spend rate before the earnings and regrow the account. Note that this would be a VERY extreme situation, like we haven't seen since the great depression." }, { "id": "t1_oottcek", "author": "/u/tpet007", "updated": "2026-05-30T20:50:50+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/oottcek/", "content": "The number of times I’ve changed career tracks so far actually proves that wrong, at least for me. I’ve also had several of my past employers try to get me to come back after I’d left and they realized just how productive I’d been." }, { "id": "t1_ootwoie", "author": "/u/MekalbD2", "updated": "2026-05-30T21:08:19+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/ootwoie/", "content": "I have a weird feeling that this community wouldn’t just stop learning relevant stuff to your work. If/when I FIRE, I’m sure I will have plenty of gig opportunity that will help satisfy that itch, or go back to school to learn, or just passively keep up with my industry. Do most people in this community just completely remove their career out of their lives when they fire?" }, { "id": "t1_ootynmf", "author": "/u/sebelga", "updated": "2026-05-30T21:18:47+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/ootynmf/", "content": "Life is short. Stop living in fear and the “what if”. That’s the beauty of it, we can’t predict what will happen. But one thing is certain, you’ll never be as young as you are today." }, { "id": "t1_oou57g2", "author": "/u/Angustony", "updated": "2026-05-30T21:54:22+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/oou57g2/", "content": "If you've FIRE'd, you don't need anything like your old income back if things don't work out. A couple of days a week at minimum wage would turn the tide completely.\n Unless you decided to FIRE but were not even close to being FI, obviously. But then you didn't ever actually reach FIRE." }, { "id": "t1_oou5pet", "author": "/u/saccerzd", "updated": "2026-05-30T21:57:07+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/oou5pet/", "content": "I wasn't quite at FIRE, but I've had nearly a decade out doing my own thing and am returning to commercial law soon." }, { "id": "t1_oounqui", "author": "/u/lovestendies", "updated": "2026-05-30T23:42:21+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/oounqui/", "content": "Medical, legal and engineering licenses don’t expire like that , you just need to pay an annual fee to the regulatory college to keep your license active (source: am in medical , caveat Canadian )" }, { "id": "t1_oouoyo9", "author": "/u/SlurringMonk", "updated": "2026-05-30T23:49:52+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/oouoyo9/", "content": "Very fair comment, I think the “Optimum” solution would be able to stay in the current role type in the same company or field for 1-2 days a week. Keep up with the employment history and technology/skill updated, if needed you can opt to put in more hours" }, { "id": "t1_oourj1b", "author": "/u/jenn4u2luv", "updated": "2026-05-31T00:05:39+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/oourj1b/", "content": "That’s why I’m not completely sold on the RE portion. I’d personally want to be out of the corporate ladder in my 40s but I’d want to be working on my own company, building something that is still in my area of expertise (tech)." }, { "id": "t1_oovean1", "author": "/u/bomboque", "updated": "2026-05-31T02:24:36+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/oovean1/", "content": "My actual experience is the opposite of your speculative supposition.\n Since I retired (FIRED) as an engineer a couple of years ago I find the problem is resisting the urge to un-retire when tempting offers of intetesting work inevitably come around. Most "retired" engineers, scientists, technicians and bureaucrats I know went back to either part time or full time work not for financial reasons but because they got bored, couldn't figure out how to fill their days or wanted to feel productive and useful and have daily interactions with co-workers. In fact it is generally assumed that most government retirees will go to work for a contractor the day after they pack up their desk. FIRE can be lonely if you have no retired friends because your friends from work can't come over and play during the week since they still have to go to work.\n If you have 20+ years of varied experience are willing to keep working, particularly in a technical field, and are flexible enough to adapt to new toold and procedures you are generally viewed as valuable because you have experience which only comes with time on the job. You can't get 20 years of experience taking a seminar. The key is "varied" experience. 20 years of doing the same process won't impress anyone who does not use that exact process.\n You ask why a company would train a 55 year old who will leave in a few years. How long do you think the average new college grad spends at their first, second, or third job? Companies don't want to have to train anybody. This why a 55 year old who can hit the ground running is preferred to a 25 year old with little or no industry experience. The 55 year olds who can't find work are the ones who are unwilling or unable adapt and insist things be done the old way. The flexible ones willing to learn the new tools and processes that are in vouge easily find work opportunities. Over the years I constantly heard young workers complain that employers only want to hire experienced people. Rarely did I hear experienced workers complain about not job opportunities. Instead they complained about being forced to do things they hated like manage and train wet behind the ears 25 year olds.\n You seem to think that IT people become obsolete if the have't learned the latest web framework or language du jour. In fact most software development involves maintaining older code bases, which is far less costly than reinventing the wheel by developing everything from the ground up for every new project. For the Y2K threat a lot of old IT people were cajoled out of retirement to fix things. In areas like cyber security experience generally counts for a lot more than knowing the latest trendy tools. The reason AI is so good and identifying new security holes is that it was trained on old security holes. Imagine what a human with real intelligence and 20+ years of experience can do when given AI tools to handle the grunt work. By analogy, an old timey carpenter that knows how to frame a wall with a hammer can easily improve their productivity by learning to use an air nailer. An expert air nailer has a lot more work to do learning how to frame a wall. Likewise, basic IT skills and experience an older IT worker has are more generally applicable than kbowing the latest trendy software framework.\n For other sorts of engineers the laws that govern electrons, thermodynamics, mechanics, fluid flow etc. have not changed much in the past century or two let alone the past 10 years. Basic engineering knowlege rarely becomes obsolete even if tools rapidly improve. Steel beams today work exactly the same way they did 100 years ago despite the fact that we now have elaborate finite element models that can render cool 3D stress plots. Electrons still work the same way to. The existence of circuit simulation tools did not change electron behavior.\n I guess the fact that you have ideas that are so at odds with what experienced retirees have gone through just shows the value of understanding things through actual experience versus believing second or third hand annecdotal reports." }, { "id": "t1_oowikn6", "author": "/u/Sen_ri", "updated": "2026-05-31T07:21:24+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/oowikn6/", "content": "Yeah I can’t relate. I spend less than $50k a year so I don’t need a good paying job to supplement my portfolio if need be. Earning $250k a year is not going to happen for me, and it’s not something I would aspire towards. I’m plenty happy earning way less than that.\n To support a failing portfolio seasonal or part time jobs would be sufficient and easy enough because of the limited time frame.\n But because I’m not expecting to spend as much money as I possibly could, I doubt I’ll be in a situation where I need to work after retirement. As a lean spender having my portfolio run away in value is more likely." }, { "id": "t1_oownykr", "author": "/u/TrollTollCollector", "updated": "2026-05-31T08:08:04+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/oownykr/", "content": "No one said that you have to go back to your old job or at the same salary. Working part-time at a retail job, even though it might suck, reduces your effective WR significantly. Given that the market produces positive real returns 90% of the time in any 10-year period historically, your chance of having to actually go back to work is fairly small." }, { "id": "t1_oox5cfh", "author": "/u/dreadkitkat", "updated": "2026-05-31T10:40:36+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/oox5cfh/", "content": "Okay not to be a party pooper but realistically no family need a lot of money post 70. Což mobility is low. Since FIRED people have a lot of time they’re worried to keep their heads busy. And if they had calculated that they’d be able to manage it and they didn’t in the end manage it. Time the face the consequences of following every trend that you see." }, { "id": "t1_ooxigal", "author": "/u/2doors_2trunks", "updated": "2026-05-31T12:16:16+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/ooxigal/", "content": "Why would your nw would drop from 2mln to 1.5 in 10 years ?" }, { "id": "t1_ooxlpgd", "author": "/u/TheCharalampos", "updated": "2026-05-31T12:37:07+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/ooxlpgd/", "content": "I don't see the issue, wouldn't even a lower paying job be enough considering the existing returns?\n Also you'd have so much space to figure out how to make money in a more enjoyable way." }, { "id": "t1_ooxnmg3", "author": "/u/cerealmonogamiss", "updated": "2026-05-31T12:48:53+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/ooxnmg3/", "content": "I am at CoastFi/leanFi right now, but am hanging onto my tech job until I can RE comfortably. I don't want to be a Walmart greeter in my 80s.\n Another thing, you're assuming that we've climbed the ladder into management. I, sadly, have not." }, { "id": "t1_ooy3x79", "author": "/u/McMonty", "updated": "2026-05-31T14:19:11+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/ooy3x79/", "content": "If you are making $250k, that could easily increase your accounts by $500k with market time over the following decade.\n Let's consider the alternative, you're on the fence and quit. 10 years pass of below average (not terrible, just not great) market returns while you've been doing all your bucket list items you don't want to put off until you're too old. That $2 million starting amount is now only $1.5 million.\n If your savings to earning ratio is only 3 to 1 at the same time you hit 4%, you have either been getting huge raises or you've been taking a pretty non-traditional fire path. I seriously doubt even 5% of people on here would ever hit that point, and probably less than 1% are deciding to retire at that point...\n Should very likely continue working at that point for another year or 2 and you'll likely have a massive increase to your annual spending room as you mentioned." }, { "id": "t1_ooy5k8i", "author": "/u/Socile", "updated": "2026-05-31T14:27:29+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/ooy5k8i/", "content": "I’ll give you my experience. I FIRE’d in ‘22 on $1.2M NW. The market has been good to me, and even after spending at a higher rate than I projected, I’m up to $2.1M. I sometimes think about going back to work, because my wife still works and I feel pressure from various sources, including myself, to contribute more. But I’m basically a homemaker now. It would be hard to go back to trading my time and hardening my arteries for a salary that I know wouldn’t feel worthwhile. And honestly, my ego likes telling people I’m retired. My hobbies are not expensive but I’d happily give up any/all of them to stay retired." }, { "id": "t1_ooy5vxn", "author": "/u/jelistarshine", "updated": "2026-05-31T14:29:10+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/ooy5vxn/", "content": "This. I just let all my professional memberships lapse. Ive only been fire for 10 months but I know in my bones ill never use them again despite being in my 40s. I would move to a cheap asian country before I would go back to work." }, { "id": "t1_ooyiwfv", "author": "/u/Impossible_Cat_321", "updated": "2026-05-31T15:33:02+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/ooyiwfv/", "content": "This is why I'm working one extra year and banking it all. CFP says we can retire in 2 years from now but we'll do 3 which will give us a bigger pile of post tax money to use for the 59-65 years" }, { "id": "t1_ooynunu", "author": "/u/EvidentlyChickent0wn", "updated": "2026-05-31T15:56:34+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/ooynunu/", "content": "I'm in the other side of this having retired 6 years ago at 40. The truth is you will never know until you have done it. The idea of fire is to plan requirement by working out what figure you need to sustain your lifestyle at the level that you have predetermined. You work on averages when forecasting besed on historical data.\n I calculated I need x. I didn't calculate I need x plus one more year to cover y (unknown scenario).\n I've accepted that my CV is no longer in its acquisition phase and that my previous career has left me. I don't worry about what will happen if I have to get back into the workforce and I certainly don't think I'd be operating at the level at which i left it. I left it because I no longer wanted to operate at that level!" }, { "id": "t1_oozo7hn", "author": "/u/EntrepreneurMuch7833", "updated": "2026-05-31T18:46:15+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/oozo7hn/", "content": "The resume gap is the real monster nobody mentions until they are three years out and staring at a blank screen. Most people underestimate how fast industry skills stagnate once you stop doing the work every day." }, { "id": "t1_op0gfx2", "author": "/u/InclinationCompass", "updated": "2026-05-31T21:04:01+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/op0gfx2/", "content": "If I plan to go back to work, it would be at a lower paying service job like restocking warehouses. I will almost certainly no longer be able to work in my career.p, that’s just unrealistic." }, { "id": "t1_op1j7tw", "author": "/u/Eolu", "updated": "2026-06-01T00:41:30+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/op1j7tw/", "content": "This is coming from a SWE nowhere near FIRE, but I would absolutely be carefully considering it starting around 2m and pull the trigger without hesitation at 3m.\n My reasoning - I love software engineering. I have no problem doing it from 9-5. But my job is always going to put me in roles that can provide the most financial benefit to them, not the things that push me to the limits of my capabilities or provide the most benefit to the software engineering industry as a whole. There are tons of important open source software projects out there that that I wish I had the time to spend my days seriously contributing towards. I use the Rust programming language professionally and there just so much in that language ecosystem that I wish I had the time to be spending my days helping to improve on, instead I’m just using the tools that other people create downstream to benefit my employer.\n I’m sure if you FIRE then play video games 8 hours a day you will have trouble getting back into the workforce if you need to. But I have no plans to abandon the thing I spent decades learning and getting good at. I just want to do it on my own terms, and work on the things I think will have the greatest impact. And if in the end I still need money? I’d still have a resume and I’d put my recent work on it. I’m not really worried about that.\n All in theory because again I’m nowhere close. But I definitely reject what you’re saying." }, { "id": "t1_op4c3c7", "author": "/u/Kooky_Dev_", "updated": "2026-06-01T12:58:23+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/op4c3c7/", "content": "Why do you assume anyone would search for a senior level role?" }, { "id": "t1_op4iqos", "author": "/u/Strazdas1", "updated": "2026-06-01T13:33:09+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/op4iqos/", "content": "When i fire i want to be sure ill never have to go back to work, because once i taste freedom my mind will be broken and i wont be able to go back to work." }, { "id": "t1_op4jm9s", "author": "/u/Chemical-Carrot-9975", "updated": "2026-06-01T13:37:36+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/op4jm9s/", "content": "I agree with you, in principle, for some types of careers. I will say that this is why you need a risk-adjusted plan: so that the need to do this is extremely unlikely." }, { "id": "t1_op4komd", "author": "/u/ShakeItUpNowSugaree", "updated": "2026-06-01T13:43:05+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/op4komd/", "content": "I see what you're saying, but I think that a lot of us who are attracted to the idea of FIRE don't really like our current jobs anyway. If I ever get out of tech then I won't come back. I've very much considered doing a paralegal program and doing that for awhile. Or I could always go back to bartending. I loved that and wouldn't mind doing it again if it weren't my sole source of income. For that matter, I would love to work retail where I could tell the customers what I really thought about their stupid demands and not have to worry about being fired and evicted." }, { "id": "t1_op4v3mo", "author": "/u/Difficult_Storm_5344", "updated": "2026-06-01T14:33:45+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/op4v3mo/", "content": "Definitely things to consider. Also we all know the market has had a run. So if retiring today. It's fair to plan for 1 or 2 bear markets in the next decade and at best suboptimal growth. Being flexible in spending is huge. I plan to move to asia to a country where. If needed and times get lean. Expats are living on 1k us dollars a month all in. Or I can spend 7 to 10k us dollars. That flexibility is not something that possible in the usa. To get your spending that low." }, { "id": "t1_op57vyx", "author": "/u/Even-Watch-5427", "updated": "2026-06-01T15:32:19+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/op57vyx/", "content": "I think people only quit now because they're forced to. We're never going to make much of our lives if we continue to optimize for money, not time.\n We dont have as much time as we believe we have" }, { "id": "t1_op69qrb", "author": "/u/SignificantFail3632", "updated": "2026-06-01T18:24:02+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/op69qrb/", "content": "This is exactly why true FIRE requires retiring to something rather than just escaping from a job, if you don't build a meaningful life outside of work while you're young, returning to the corporate grind years later is going to be a massive shock." }, { "id": "t1_op6d4vg", "author": "/u/bookkeepingthrowaway", "updated": "2026-06-01T18:43:44+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/op6d4vg/", "content": "I think worst case you could just say that you were freelancing in your field or trying to start your own business during that time and maybe actually try and do it before you come back so it’s the truth." }, { "id": "t1_op6ok0q", "author": "/u/Choice_Potato_6279", "updated": "2026-06-01T19:43:40+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/op6ok0q/", "content": "Why can't you take your old job back? I'm 33 and worked only 3 years, the rest I've neeted" }, { "id": "t1_op6zznb", "author": "/u/Ra_a_", "updated": "2026-06-01T20:35:23+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/op6zznb/", "content": "Good answer to - why do people do OMY ?" }, { "id": "t1_op93bz8", "author": "/u/Rippen21", "updated": "2026-06-02T03:37:50+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/op93bz8/", "content": "If you had the diligence to FIRE, you know your budget, your plan, and your financial flexibility that is possible.\n My plan has a good amount of budget planned for travel and hobbies. Both would remain if the market drops, but destinations and accommodations might change to fit the budget. The fun car budget doesn’t go to zero, but would focus on lower value or project cars instead of turnkey mint editions. I want something I don’t feel bad driving anyway, and highly collectible versions usually don’t get tons of miles." }, { "id": "t1_opfarq3", "author": "/u/Inevitable-Cap1092", "updated": "2026-06-03T00:39:11+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/opfarq3/", "content": "Once FIRE, unless you’re in some niche role, it’s hard to return to work." }, { "id": "t1_opftynx", "author": "/u/Sherbet-Famous", "updated": "2026-06-03T02:28:44+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1trlmzd/you_cant_just_go_back_to_work_after_you_fire/opftynx/", "content": "I ain't reading all that shit" } ] }, { "source": "r/Fire top month", "id": "t3_1t5g7mj", "title": "1 M didn't feel special, but 2M changed everything for me", "author": "/u/Available-Ad-5670", "updated": "2026-05-06T15:27:49+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/", "content": "As a single person, I hit 1M about 10 years ago, and I remember not feeling much at the time, other than thinking "I'm a millionaire". But it honestly didn't change much. I knew i would probably never starve, but i already knew that at $800k as well.\n But $2M did change something in my mind. that's when retiring early became real, and not just something potentially in a few years. 2M meant if there was a bad market, than I "probably" will not have to go back to work. Now 1 year later, it increased to $2.5m, and as a single person, that was always my fire number.\n In essence, 1M didn't feel that special, but 2M did. And it was mostly because it gave margin for error. I think anything beyond this will be nice, but 2M will always be the point when I knew I was going to be ok.\n submitted by /u/Available-Ad-5670\n [link] [comments]", "contentHtml": "

As a single person, I hit 1M about 10 years ago, and I remember not feeling much at the time, other than thinking "I'm a millionaire". But it honestly didn't change much. I knew i would probably never starve, but i already knew that at $800k as well.

But $2M did change something in my mind. that's when retiring early became real, and not just something potentially in a few years. 2M meant if there was a bad market, than I "probably" will not have to go back to work. Now 1 year later, it increased to $2.5m, and as a single person, that was always my fire number.

In essence, 1M didn't feel that special, but 2M did. And it was mostly because it gave margin for error. I think anything beyond this will be nice, but 2M will always be the point when I knew I was going to be ok.

submitted by /u/Available-Ad-5670
[link] [comments]", "comments": [ { "id": "t1_ok9ou27", "author": "/u/Immediate-Ad-9520", "updated": "2026-05-06T15:31:54+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/ok9ou27/", "content": "This makes sense. 1M is a number on paper. It’s a cool milestone but it doesn’t change anything. 2M+ things go from theoretical to tangible.\n I’m at about 1.75M and I’m definitely starting to feel the tangible. It’s a good feeling but tanking motivation at work." }, { "id": "t1_ok9t8nv", "author": "/u/4N59KG8S9E04S", "updated": "2026-05-06T15:51:10+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/ok9t8nv/", "content": "I (we) clipped 2M for first time early this morning. 1M was a champagne glass and typical dinner out, nothing special. 2M was me showing my wife a screenshot on my phone that said 2M and a ILU. More is freedom and flexibility.\n Our original goal was 1.8M and Fire in 2029. This bull market is nuts. We'll probably stick to 2029ish but NW will be much higher than we thought.\n At work, I'm shifting to a "I don't really need to involve myself in that" or "I'm gonna choose to just not reply to that email and see what happens" mentality." }, { "id": "t1_oka274j", "author": "/u/Str-Engr0275", "updated": "2026-05-06T16:30:55+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/oka274j/", "content": "I’m in the exact same position. My wife and I will go over 2.2M at the close of the S&P today. It has completely done away with any desire I have to shine because I could say “fuck it” and walk out the door today and still keep food on the table. I keep going though because I want my retirement to feel like a coronation, not a step back. My plan is to wait till 2032 when my youngest is out of college to peace out. My NW then will hopefully be like 4.5M. I have adopted the following phrase much more often at work: “My last flying fuck flew away a long time ago!”" }, { "id": "t1_okahqak", "author": "/u/cucumbercoast", "updated": "2026-05-06T17:38:17+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/okahqak/", "content": "I want my retirement to feel like a coronation, not a step back.\n This is a cool way to think about it." }, { "id": "t1_okchb8d", "author": "/u/Pretty-Balance-Sheet", "updated": "2026-05-06T23:10:48+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/okchb8d/", "content": "I don't want to say that lifestyle creep triggered this thinking in me but it did. I'm at FI already and every year I stay is just for future lifestyle. I don't want to go from a comfortable income to being strapped. That doesn't feel like a goal to me.\n One of of my many retirement calculators is a 'lifestyle' calculator where I can connect tangible lifestyle levels to savings amounts. Want to spend $60k per year on travel? Want to cash flow a property in the tropics? I need $xxx more money." }, { "id": "t1_okdlgxl", "author": "/u/Dilldo__Baggins", "updated": "2026-05-07T02:58:36+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/okdlgxl/", "content": "I’m with you. I’m FI due to real estate income but now also FI separately due to stock valuations. I still work because I view it as just upgrading the amount of luxury I can afford during retirement." }, { "id": "t1_okdyrcg", "author": "/u/strongkater", "updated": "2026-05-07T04:27:34+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/okdyrcg/", "content": "Which calc is this?" }, { "id": "t1_okjdmga", "author": "/u/Pretty-Balance-Sheet", "updated": "2026-05-07T22:52:11+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/okjdmga/", "content": "It's my own. Right now it's just in a spreadsheet. Pretty simple: itemize all hard expenses, fun money itemized, sum the total, divide by withdrawal rate, compare to current savings total. Repeat that for each 'lifestyle' you want to test. I create different scenarios like poverty fi, comfortable fi, fat fi (includes higher amounts for things and extra items for expensive travel/toys/properties).\n I'm writing it into a web app right now. I'm adding in all of the things I've always wished for in a retirement calculator. Namely precise start and stop dates on everything so you can simulate coast fire or future purchases like an investment property in 10 years, that sort of thing. It has a pre-retirement calculator then post-retirement means testing and testing against historical averages, lifestyle testing, etc. If I ever finish I may put it online." }, { "id": "t1_okseco6", "author": "/u/CenlaLowell", "updated": "2026-05-09T08:14:27+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/okseco6/", "content": "Only if you don't have to work past the age necessary. Example I'm not working to 65 to achieve 2.5 million if I have 2 million at 60 etc" }, { "id": "t1_oktsm5b", "author": "/u/cucumbercoast", "updated": "2026-05-09T14:22:36+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/oktsm5b/", "content": "Agreed." }, { "id": "t1_okarxt7", "author": "/u/TeachingOk2591", "updated": "2026-05-06T18:22:23+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/okarxt7/", "content": "Only issue is if the equity party stops for awhile which it inevitably does. At 2MM liquid - that matters less I agree. Still, assuming that one will have millions more in the coming decades is o.k. as the graph historically still goes up and to the right - but boy those crashes typically take quite a lot to survive. I've been through many of them now at 57 so am a bit more sanguine about things even with a net worth of nearly 2.8MM." }, { "id": "t1_okbzxoq", "author": "/u/Newfie3", "updated": "2026-05-06T21:39:38+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/okbzxoq/", "content": "To protect against dips in the equity party, keep a few years of it in bonds and stable funds in the 2 or so years leading up to retirement. Draw on that first, and sell equities to buy more bonds to refill that bucket as you age. At lest that’s my theory. Plus we are lucky enough to have a couple of small defined benefit pension plans." }, { "id": "t1_okbd0e2", "author": "/u/Str-Engr0275", "updated": "2026-05-06T19:55:30+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/okbd0e2/", "content": "Yes I agree. Thankfully I’m fully healthy and could easily work till 65, I just don’t want too. If I did get fired tomorrow though I would be completely fine." }, { "id": "t1_okukj9q", "author": "/u/Humble_Wheel_3909", "updated": "2026-05-09T16:45:30+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/okukj9q/", "content": "Sanguine is an adjective meaning cheerfully optimistic, hopeful, or confident- so are you confident or ambivalent" }, { "id": "t1_okw6akp", "author": "/u/TeachingOk2591", "updated": "2026-05-09T21:51:00+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/okw6akp/", "content": "Yes - ambivalently optimistic lol. I meant ambivalent - so good catch!" }, { "id": "t1_okw72b7", "author": "/u/Humble_Wheel_3909", "updated": "2026-05-09T21:55:23+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/okw72b7/", "content": "lol thought so" }, { "id": "t1_okatzv8", "author": "/u/DuffyBravo", "updated": "2026-05-06T18:31:33+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/okatzv8/", "content": "I am in a very similar situation as you. Do you really think we could double by 2032?!?! I am being very conservative and thinking only a 6-7% a year gain. My youngest is also out of college in 2032. I have 4 kids and in the thick of college right now 😄" }, { "id": "t1_okbd7lw", "author": "/u/Str-Engr0275", "updated": "2026-05-06T19:56:21+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/okbd7lw/", "content": "I’m factoring in contributions into my assessment of what 2032 will bring." }, { "id": "t1_okchrnz", "author": "/u/PieAgile4132", "updated": "2026-05-06T23:13:16+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/okchrnz/", "content": "Six years would assume a 12% return. I would love to see a repeat of the last six years but am also leaning conservative as it seems too good to be true." }, { "id": "t1_okbx1hr", "author": "/u/Frosty_Occasion_8466", "updated": "2026-05-06T21:25:45+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/okbx1hr/", "content": "Dow 100k by 2032" }, { "id": "t1_okju0vb", "author": "/u/chrisaf69", "updated": "2026-05-08T00:30:47+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/okju0vb/", "content": "My goodness. This is essentially my plan to a T with same exact numbers and reasoning. Lol. Only difference is my date is two years later." }, { "id": "t1_okmfqlu", "author": "/u/Str-Engr0275", "updated": "2026-05-08T11:59:07+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/okmfqlu/", "content": "Including the phrase? 🤣" }, { "id": "t1_okmmf1e", "author": "/u/chrisaf69", "updated": "2026-05-08T12:36:34+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/okmmf1e/", "content": "That phrase more than anything! Hahaha" }, { "id": "t1_okkjhw0", "author": "/u/amandacam", "updated": "2026-05-08T03:14:03+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/okkjhw0/", "content": "Everyone that has 2m+ in a relationship are ya’ll talking about combined savings? Also, what part of the country do ya’ll live in. It’s so important when considering tax implications and cost of living. Living in LA my retire marker is closer to 5m with current living expenses… and we are mid-40’s." }, { "id": "t1_okmgpt8", "author": "/u/Str-Engr0275", "updated": "2026-05-08T12:04:47+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/okmgpt8/", "content": "I’m married so of course we have these discussions. I send her a screenshot of the fidelity app every time we reach a new milestone, essentially every 100k. It was just like two weeks ago we went over 2.1, and then we hit 2.2! I wish this rate of increase would continue but I know better than that. We live in a moderately LCOL area but plan to move to Florida in 2032." }, { "id": "t1_okkjiz4", "author": "/u/amandacam", "updated": "2026-05-08T03:14:16+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/okkjiz4/", "content": "Everyone that has 2m+ in a relationship are ya’ll talking about combined savings? Also, what part of the country do ya’ll live in. It’s so important when considering tax implications and cost of living. Living in LA my retire marker is closer to 5m with current living expenses… and we are mid-40’s." }, { "id": "t1_okkjldv", "author": "/u/amandacam", "updated": "2026-05-08T03:14:43+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/okkjldv/", "content": "Everyone that has 2m+ in a relationship are ya’ll talking about combined savings? Also, what part of the country do ya’ll live in. It’s so important when considering tax implications and cost of living. Living in LA my retire marker is closer to 5m with current living expenses… and we are mid-40’s." }, { "id": "t1_okczbom", "author": "/u/Go4RogerTango", "updated": "2026-05-07T00:51:09+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/okczbom/", "content": "I wish I could think like that.\n My net worth without my primary residence and some offshore properties is $6.5M but I am worried for my kids and need to see them set up for success or go through the grind myself to make enough money for them to give them a leg up" }, { "id": "t1_okdh2ob", "author": "/u/Str-Engr0275", "updated": "2026-05-07T02:32:15+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/okdh2ob/", "content": "If I was at $6.5M I’d have people telling me to go fuck myself tomorrow. Are you in a HCOL area? At that level of wealth, with you living modestly your NW should still continue to grow nicely even as you take withdrawals. Don’t fall into the one more year trap." }, { "id": "t1_ok9ulgz", "author": "/u/Immediate-Ad-9520", "updated": "2026-05-06T15:57:07+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/ok9ulgz/", "content": "I love this. Peak romance, honestly. You’re a team and you reached a really awesome goal together." }, { "id": "t1_ok9zrts", "author": "/u/per54", "updated": "2026-05-06T16:20:10+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/ok9zrts/", "content": "But be mindful. Bull is nuts but it may bear down." }, { "id": "t1_oka86ev", "author": "/u/4N59KG8S9E04S", "updated": "2026-05-06T16:57:43+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/oka86ev/", "content": "Yep. Up is good. Down is ok too, just investing at a cheaper dollar. Long term trend is what's important and that's about as strong an indicator as anyone has." }, { "id": "t1_okaez7o", "author": "/u/per54", "updated": "2026-05-06T17:26:38+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/okaez7o/", "content": "Investing at a cheaper dollar is great when you’re not yet FIRE…." }, { "id": "t1_okagvgp", "author": "/u/joemamah77", "updated": "2026-05-06T17:34:39+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/okagvgp/", "content": "And not when you are getting close to pulling the trigger on retirement. At 57, I’m shifting more to a wealth preservation mindset away from a wealth creation one.\n If you’ve already won, why run up the score?" }, { "id": "t1_okdlw3h", "author": "/u/Dilldo__Baggins", "updated": "2026-05-07T03:01:12+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/okdlw3h/", "content": "With inflation, the game is never won." }, { "id": "t1_okfqove", "author": "/u/joemamah77", "updated": "2026-05-07T12:42:39+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/okfqove/", "content": "Correct, but that’s only half of the conversation. Proper asset diversification, allocation, and location combats inflation in the background while you sleep.\n When do you stop? What is “enough?” If you don’t have a strong battle plan and prepare for different scenarios then all you do is hoard weapons (dollars). When do you deploy them?" }, { "id": "t1_okasovv", "author": "/u/TeachingOk2591", "updated": "2026-05-06T18:25:43+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/okasovv/", "content": "This - just commented same thing before getting to this one. 100% agree - got to live through a few of those 40%+ drops to really know how your portfolio holds up. So many folks haven't seen these amazing portfolio's take a hit of 100's of k's. SORR is real and so is the fact we'll have another bear. Then we'll see how the - oh I'll have another 2 MM in a decade feels when it looks like the bottom is falling out!" }, { "id": "t1_ok9zt7n", "author": "/u/PHL1365", "updated": "2026-05-06T16:20:20+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/ok9zt7n/", "content": "I know what you mean. I'm roughly a year away from pulling the trigger and it's getting really hard to motivate myself for work any more." }, { "id": "t1_okah7kc", "author": "/u/Admirable_Nerve3117", "updated": "2026-05-06T17:36:05+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/okah7kc/", "content": "lol love the not reply to that email. I’ve literally been slacking since 2020 and since then I’ve gone from 1m to 2m. It’s a win-win!" }, { "id": "t1_ok9u6ks", "author": "/u/ShowdownValue", "updated": "2026-05-06T15:55:17+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/ok9u6ks/", "content": "What’s an ILU?" }, { "id": "t1_ok9x5oy", "author": "/u/shotparrot", "updated": "2026-05-06T16:08:30+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/ok9x5oy/", "content": "It means there's a future appointment for "Intimate Love Undertaking" if you know what I mean." }, { "id": "t1_okah1jz", "author": "/u/joemamah77", "updated": "2026-05-06T17:35:22+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/okah1jz/", "content": "Chicka-Waa-Waa!" }, { "id": "t1_ok9u9zo", "author": "/u/4N59KG8S9E04S", "updated": "2026-05-06T15:55:43+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/ok9u9zo/", "content": "Verbal "I love you"" }, { "id": "t1_okcx9ux", "author": "/u/maskedmarvel199", "updated": "2026-05-07T00:39:36+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/okcx9ux/", "content": "Funny I got 2 mil today and just did the screenshot to my wife too!" }, { "id": "t1_okcxxzh", "author": "/u/4N59KG8S9E04S", "updated": "2026-05-07T00:43:21+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/okcxxzh/", "content": "Congrats to you both!" }, { "id": "t1_okcbybw", "author": "/u/mc_louds", "updated": "2026-05-06T22:41:54+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/okcbybw/", "content": "You’ll probably get promoted!" }, { "id": "t1_ok9ymal", "author": "/u/jcwillia1", "updated": "2026-05-06T16:15:00+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/ok9ymal/", "content": "ngl I tear'ed up a bit when I read this - so cool." }, { "id": "t1_okbg48c", "author": "/u/Less_Fox_5261", "updated": "2026-05-06T20:08:55+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/okbg48c/", "content": "I already do the not reply and see what happens as a 25 yr old 😅😂. Fair to say it's going to be a long 15-20 years till I reach fire" }, { "id": "t1_okjj2bj", "author": "/u/Covington-next", "updated": "2026-05-07T23:23:25+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/okjj2bj/", "content": "The work thing is real. I'm in sales and continuing to grind for another commission check has lost its lustre." }, { "id": "t1_ok9smt5", "author": "/u/mandoo-dumpling", "updated": "2026-05-06T15:48:31+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/ok9smt5/", "content": "Same. I’m at 1.7m as well. I recently got laid off, so I’m trying to figure out next steps. I’ve been jobhunting and interviewing for the past five months, but no offer. The job market is brutal right now! I’m so glad that I have savings and that gives me peace of mind." }, { "id": "t1_ok9ue79", "author": "/u/Immediate-Ad-9520", "updated": "2026-05-06T15:56:14+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/ok9ue79/", "content": "Honestly if I got laid off and got a decent severance, I might be done. I’d at least take some time for sure." }, { "id": "t1_ok9yj1q", "author": "/u/mandoo-dumpling", "updated": "2026-05-06T16:14:36+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/ok9yj1q/", "content": "Well, I may be forced into early retirement if I don’t land a new job! Lol. Yeah, it really sucks because I haven’t even been able to enjoy the time off because I’m constantly submitting applications, interviewing and then getting either ghosted or rejected.\n I’m also pursuing some low stress, part-time work. This could also be a viable way forward.\n I feel like I’m getting closer to my FIRE number, but I would ideally like to reach somewhere between 2 and 2.5m before I call it a day.\n Let’s see what happens." }, { "id": "t1_oka4yih", "author": "/u/blew_belle", "updated": "2026-05-06T16:43:27+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/oka4yih/", "content": "I have about the same at 55. I will probably be laid off due to a merger but I'm safe for about a year. If I get laid off then I will take 3 months off period. I have worked at this company since college and I'm very burnt out. Then I plan to dedicate 3 hours a week to job hunting and see what happens. Those office hours will be strict, unless I actually get an interview or something. We've earned the peace." }, { "id": "t1_okapydg", "author": "/u/mandoo-dumpling", "updated": "2026-05-06T18:13:38+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/okapydg/", "content": "Good idea to have some guard rails in place.\n The reason why I feel like I’m always jobhunting is that it’s so competitive now … I feel like if you don’t submit your application within one hour of the job posting, then your résumé will never get seen. I should probably look for more balance, though. Being so focused on job searching is very bad for mental health because the constant ghosting and rejection is incredibly frustrating!\n If your job is safe for at least another year, maybe you can hit your FIRE number by then. I think my savings increased by $400 or $500k just within this past year! Fingers crossed that the market will continue to perform well. I know there’s no guarantee." }, { "id": "t1_okasipi", "author": "/u/blew_belle", "updated": "2026-05-06T18:24:57+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/okasipi/", "content": "Yeah I witnessed (and helped) my son get a job recently and it was brutal. I won't be able to jump right into that stress after everything going on at work and what will be yet to come as a member of the transition team. I'm also 2.5 years out from the whole gamut of breast cancer treatment that I worked thru to keep my insurance and I'm just burnt out. I hope I can make the year. Rto is part of it." }, { "id": "t1_okatigi", "author": "/u/mandoo-dumpling", "updated": "2026-05-06T18:29:24+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/okatigi/", "content": "Oh my goodness! Please prioritize your health and wellbeing. That’s what most important for sure." }, { "id": "t1_oke7k7y", "author": "/u/DiceGames", "updated": "2026-05-07T05:35:11+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/oke7k7y/", "content": "also laid off and looking feverishly. What industry / function are you in? I’m having trouble landing the interviews I really want." }, { "id": "t1_okr8ygj", "author": "/u/mandoo-dumpling", "updated": "2026-05-09T02:41:01+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/okr8ygj/", "content": "I work in corporate communications for the tech sector. I’m glad I’ve gotten interviews, but so far, they have all ended up with big fat rejections. Booo!" }, { "id": "t1_okrc4qz", "author": "/u/DiceGames", "updated": "2026-05-09T03:02:03+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/okrc4qz/", "content": "I’m in CPG marketing and it’s been tough here as well. Getting interviews but nothing I really want. 7 weeks in so we just have to keep grinding - it’s a number game. Good luck to you." }, { "id": "t1_ok9ywh4", "author": "/u/mandoo-dumpling", "updated": "2026-05-06T16:16:16+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/ok9ywh4/", "content": "Also, I’m concerned that all this stuff going on in Iran will make my portfolio tank. Right now it’s at an all-time high, but just a couple of weeks ago it was down because of the war." }, { "id": "t1_okk0rla", "author": "/u/ralphy112", "updated": "2026-05-08T01:14:47+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/okk0rla/", "content": "The longer you wait to get back into things, the harder it is. Better to find something you can keep the momentum going on for 2-3 more years at that point. Deferred gratification jus a little longer, with just a little less stress about it perhaps." }, { "id": "t1_okolnay", "author": "/u/mandoo-dumpling", "updated": "2026-05-08T18:02:50+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/okolnay/", "content": "Yes, that’s why I’ve been jobhunting so aggressively. I’m trying to avoid a big gap on my résumé. But after five months, still no offer so it’s very frustrating. Hopefully I’ll learn something soon because I don’t want to dip into my savings." }, { "id": "t1_ok9yqf3", "author": "/u/vulkoriscoming", "updated": "2026-05-06T16:15:31+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/ok9yqf3/", "content": "The thing I regret most about when I quit my job to start my own company was not taking some time between. You have plenty of money to float for a really long time and summer is starting. Take a month or two and have fun. The job market will be there in August." }, { "id": "t1_oka9pxv", "author": "/u/mandoo-dumpling", "updated": "2026-05-06T17:04:23+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/oka9pxv/", "content": "Thank you for the reassurance!" }, { "id": "t1_okd0au0", "author": "/u/woods_gal", "updated": "2026-05-07T00:56:39+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/okd0au0/", "content": "This is almost me (I'm at 1.4m). I was RIFfed last year. The only reason I'm still looking for employment is because of inflation and not truly believing I could really be done at age 56 (and not run out of money). Like you, trying to figure out my next steps." }, { "id": "t1_okd2rh9", "author": "/u/mandoo-dumpling", "updated": "2026-05-07T01:10:33+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/okd2rh9/", "content": "How is your job search going? I’m getting lots of interviews, and have even made it to final rounds several times, but I keep up getting rejected or ghosted. Just today I received a rejection from a job where I was pretty far along in the process and was hoping for an offer. Dang!\n It’s so time-consuming with the nonstop scanning for job postings, applications, interviews, and written case studies. Feels like such a huge waste of time when you end up with no offer.\n I’m frustrated and I may consider taking a break from the job search for a month or two." }, { "id": "t1_okdgmri", "author": "/u/woods_gal", "updated": "2026-05-07T02:29:41+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/okdgmri/", "content": "Not a bite. Some applications I put effort into; others I do the bare minimum. Which, of course, is not particularly conducive to reemployment. The only way to get a job in this day and age of AI applicant tracking systems is through networking. I only apply online to keep up my unemployment benefits. I am, however, constantly reaching out to to my network to see if they know of anything or know someone who does. I can't believe how nonsensical the whole employment process is these days." }, { "id": "t1_okdpq1a", "author": "/u/mandoo-dumpling", "updated": "2026-05-07T03:25:55+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/okdpq1a/", "content": "It’s a tough job market for sure. Good luck to both of us!" }, { "id": "t1_ok9pl3m", "author": "/u/todofwar", "updated": "2026-05-06T15:35:14+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/ok9pl3m/", "content": "2M has been my leanest fire number (I know it's not really lean) so I'm looking forward to that one for sure" }, { "id": "t1_oka0ym7", "author": "/u/Beaver-on-fire", "updated": "2026-05-06T16:25:26+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/oka0ym7/", "content": "It may or may not be lean entirely upon the cost of living where you're at." }, { "id": "t1_oka8opw", "author": "/u/alphawolf29", "updated": "2026-05-06T16:59:55+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/oka8opw/", "content": "from this subreddit youd think 90% of the population lives in new york city or san francisco..." }, { "id": "t1_okatb8a", "author": "/u/TeachingOk2591", "updated": "2026-05-06T18:28:30+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/okatb8a/", "content": "And need 10 million just to 'survive' lol." }, { "id": "t1_okbm8qa", "author": "/u/todofwar", "updated": "2026-05-06T20:36:21+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/okbm8qa/", "content": "I like to think I'm honest with myself, my fire number is a chubby fire number and I'm happy to work longer to get it. But yeah, some people really need to reconsider their wants vs needs" }, { "id": "t1_okabu9d", "author": "/u/Banned3rdTimesaCharm", "updated": "2026-05-06T17:13:23+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/okabu9d/", "content": "I’ve been one foot out the door since about 1.7, I’m at 2.1 now and it’s getting progressively harder to stay motivated at work. The problem is the less I give a shit the more they throw at me.\n I’ve been given 10 new headcount in the last year and my VP keeps talking about my future at the company. Gave me significant RSU refreshes every year for the last 7 years.\n I want to stop working but I’m trapped by my income. My steak is too juicy and my lobster is too buttery." }, { "id": "t1_okacua8", "author": "/u/Immediate-Ad-9520", "updated": "2026-05-06T17:17:35+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/okacua8/", "content": "lol at least you know your steak is too juicy and your lobster too buttery" }, { "id": "t1_okbnalg", "author": "/u/stlredditblues", "updated": "2026-05-06T20:41:10+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/okbnalg/", "content": "Peter?" }, { "id": "t1_okcdx0e", "author": "/u/jdub965", "updated": "2026-05-06T22:52:26+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/okcdx0e/", "content": "All great if you still enjoy the job. Once it stops being fun, that’s when it’s time to leave." }, { "id": "t1_okceuq6", "author": "/u/Banned3rdTimesaCharm", "updated": "2026-05-06T22:57:29+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/okceuq6/", "content": "I've been at the same company for 17 years, and same team for 10 years now. It's not so much I enjoy the job, but I enjoy being competent. It's nice when people look to me for help and view me as that guy. On the other hand, I have enough money to be lying on a beach in SEA sucking some toes. So much of my identity in the past 17 years has been tied up with me being the most competent guy in the room. It's a hard frame shift to become an expat that does nothing but suck toes all day, even though that's really what I want." }, { "id": "t1_okcf9nw", "author": "/u/jdub965", "updated": "2026-05-06T22:59:42+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/okcf9nw/", "content": "Sounds like you’re still having fun, and that of course encompasses the camaraderie with the co workers. You’re in a good spot. You get to decide when it is time to" }, { "id": "t1_okgz6f1", "author": "/u/Crazy_Garlic4158", "updated": "2026-05-07T16:10:44+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/okgz6f1/", "content": "I'm stuck in this cycle as well. I like how you phrased it "being the most competent in the room". It keeps teasing me into one more year when I can be fairly comfortable saying goodbye." }, { "id": "t1_ok9v21z", "author": "/u/onlyfreckles", "updated": "2026-05-06T15:59:09+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/ok9v21z/", "content": "Tanking motivation to work? Who cares, you can afford to coastfire!\n Drop down to part time and enjoy being semi retired!" }, { "id": "t1_ok9vacu", "author": "/u/Immediate-Ad-9520", "updated": "2026-05-06T16:00:09+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/ok9vacu/", "content": "I have ambitious retirement goals and want a larger income. I also don’t mind my job and it’s fully remote, and my boss is my best friend. No need to leave at the moment. If things change, sure." }, { "id": "t1_oka6n4m", "author": "/u/rubu8069", "updated": "2026-05-06T16:51:00+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/oka6n4m/", "content": "Agree I am sitting at 1.6M and feel the same. Hitting 2M will be the goal." }, { "id": "t1_ok9pk58", "author": "/u/Great_Percentage_294", "updated": "2026-05-06T15:35:07+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/ok9pk58/", "content": "same at work motivation" }, { "id": "t1_oka10bv", "author": "/u/srqfla", "updated": "2026-05-06T16:25:39+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/oka10bv/", "content": "Imagine how terrible it would be to be a boss of six people, each of whom has 2 million liquid assets" }, { "id": "t1_okc5riw", "author": "/u/PHL1365", "updated": "2026-05-06T22:08:49+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/okc5riw/", "content": "I remember hearing stories of the original Apple employees wearing buttons that said "FYIFV", meaning F*** you, I'm fully vested." }, { "id": "t1_okaaqh1", "author": "/u/Mysterious9876", "updated": "2026-05-06T17:08:45+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/okaaqh1/", "content": "so funny and true" }, { "id": "t1_ok9xfb6", "author": "/u/Darling_Pinky", "updated": "2026-05-06T16:09:43+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/ok9xfb6/", "content": "Lost my job earlier this year and am feeling miserable about applying and going back. This boring middle is infinitely harder when the world is so upside down." }, { "id": "t1_ok9t17d", "author": "/u/Unlucky-Cook2578", "updated": "2026-05-06T15:50:16+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/ok9t17d/", "content": "Yeah I am about to hit the 1M mark, my general target for truly assessing how close to retiring is 2M.\n You can't really live on the interest from 1M (Assuming that is total assets)" }, { "id": "t1_oka13sw", "author": "/u/Beaver-on-fire", "updated": "2026-05-06T16:26:04+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/oka13sw/", "content": "I live off of 25K per year currently, so I think I would do quite well at 30 to 40K worth of interest." }, { "id": "t1_oka0kk1", "author": "", "updated": "2026-05-06T16:23:43+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/oka0kk1/", "content": "[deleted]" }, { "id": "t1_okaggsd", "author": "/u/EchoSi3rra", "updated": "2026-05-06T17:32:57+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/okaggsd/", "content": "AI bot account?" }, { "id": "t1_okse2gb", "author": "/u/CenlaLowell", "updated": "2026-05-09T08:11:50+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/okse2gb/", "content": "I wonder if people sit back and think about this statement above. 1 million you're in the TOP 12% of Americans. Thats nothing to sneeze at fellas pat yourself on the back.\n I hit the milestone last year at the ripe old age of 44." }, { "id": "t1_okt0ygg", "author": "/u/Immediate-Ad-9520", "updated": "2026-05-09T11:35:46+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/okt0ygg/", "content": "This is the FIRE sub. Responses are obviously going to be through that lens. It’s super exciting to have $1M and yeah, sure, that’s in the top percent of Americans. Ok? Most Americans are living paycheck to paycheck and drowning in debt. I want more for myself. 1M isn’t enough for an early retirement." }, { "id": "t1_okanax6", "author": "/u/SignificantFail3632", "updated": "2026-05-06T18:01:59+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/okanax6/", "content": "yeah that middle zone is weird, once work stops feeling necessary every annoying meeting starts feeling way more personal" }, { "id": "t1_okanhx5", "author": "/u/justaguyonthebus", "updated": "2026-05-06T18:02:51+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/okanhx5/", "content": "I'm exactly in the same situation. It's all but a sure thing." }, { "id": "t1_okbc5va", "author": "/u/MilkBumm", "updated": "2026-05-06T19:51:52+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/okbc5va/", "content": "$1M doesn’t change everything but it definitely does more than changing nothing" }, { "id": "t1_okbh8bd", "author": "/u/Immediate-Ad-9520", "updated": "2026-05-06T20:13:51+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/okbh8bd/", "content": "Maybe for you. My experience was different. I still was saving super aggressively, I still need my job, I still watch every dollar. It was a paper victory. It was exciting and I was really happy and proud, but it didn’t change anything in our day to day life." }, { "id": "t1_okdq559", "author": "/u/AlgoRhythMatic", "updated": "2026-05-07T03:28:38+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/okdq559/", "content": "I identify so hard with this. I crossed 1.7M solo, or 2.2M with my partner today, and am absolutely struggling to focus. If we stick to (or last through) our +5 year plan, we should hit 3.8-4M - but if all else fails…we don’t really need to. It’s a good place to be!" }, { "id": "t1_okdva5s", "author": "/u/hadee75", "updated": "2026-05-07T04:03:07+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/okdva5s/", "content": "How long did take you to go from $1M to $1.75M?" }, { "id": "t1_okf8a4o", "author": "/u/Immediate-Ad-9520", "updated": "2026-05-07T10:48:50+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/okf8a4o/", "content": "We crossed 1M in December 2023 and 1.7M in April 2026, so about 2.5 years?" }, { "id": "t1_okfjb06", "author": "/u/hadee75", "updated": "2026-05-07T12:00:42+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/okfjb06/", "content": "Wonderful, thanks!" }, { "id": "t1_okvq4l6", "author": "/u/DKtwilight", "updated": "2026-05-09T20:21:33+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/okvq4l6/", "content": "Because you can smell that finish line" }, { "id": "t1_oka2r4b", "author": "/u/Pretty_Swordfish", "updated": "2026-05-06T16:33:27+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/oka2r4b/", "content": "$2M at 4% is about the median household income in the United States. So yeah, being able to passively take that out each year is a great feeling! We recently hit it as well.\n However, I don't want to work to a specific number, since inflation will keep moving the mark if I settle on a number. Instead, focus is on how much we can get for the amount we have invested (a version of leanFIRE).\n Right now, we are at "could survive ok at home, but not a lot of travel" OR "fun life of slow travel with no home base" level. We want to get to "home base plus 6 months or so of travel per year, with health insurance and care covered any where" before we retire." }, { "id": "t1_oka5754", "author": "/u/Available-Ad-5670", "updated": "2026-05-06T16:44:33+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/oka5754/", "content": "yes, i'm shooting for the same thing. the home base plus 6 months of travel is signifigantly more expensive than the other two options you mentioned though, you basically need 1.6x or more of your fire number to make that happen from my experience. unless you move to a lcol area in the us, and you stay in one place and get a 6 month lease in your travel destination" }, { "id": "t1_okbc7u2", "author": "/u/Pretty_Swordfish", "updated": "2026-05-06T19:52:06+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/okbc7u2/", "content": "Exactly, so in 2026, we are about 70% to our FIRE number. That could (and likely will) change. We are considering what type of housing to get for US base. Likely a townhouse with lowish HOA makes sense, but we'll see. It'll need to be paid off, so that's even more needed.\n Feels never ending, but I think it'll actually happen in the next 10 years or less." }, { "id": "t1_oksdhgh", "author": "/u/CenlaLowell", "updated": "2026-05-09T08:06:23+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/oksdhgh/", "content": "I'm going to get a six month lease in Thailand and travel to all the countries from there" }, { "id": "t1_oksdlqp", "author": "/u/Available-Ad-5670", "updated": "2026-05-09T08:07:30+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/oksdlqp/", "content": "thats my plan as well." }, { "id": "t1_okdnk3v", "author": "/u/Opposite-Lake-9679", "updated": "2026-05-07T03:11:52+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/okdnk3v/", "content": "I was always under the impression that a 4% SWR took into account inflation which makes sense because a 7% return is generally considered typical over time. But you are saying that you don't think that 4% is safe enough even though it's theoretically taking into account inflation? I'm curious. Thanks" }, { "id": "t1_okdyley", "author": "/u/rybsf", "updated": "2026-05-07T04:26:25+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/okdyley/", "content": "I think their comment about inflation is about the target, not the withdrawal rate. Inflation during accumulating will raise what number is required to cover their desired type of life. So instead of setting a number as the goal, they set a desired type of life as goal. So that it remains consistent despite inflation and real progress can be better understood over time.\n After starting to withdraw, their withdrawal rate, such as 4%, should as you say account for inflation and thus keep covering those expenses. But obviously that doesn’t start until you’ve reached the target and started using the 4% (or whatever rate)." }, { "id": "t1_okgj9pv", "author": "/u/Opposite-Lake-9679", "updated": "2026-05-07T15:00:33+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/okgj9pv/", "content": "Ok thank you" }, { "id": "t1_okd51f4", "author": "/u/kevreh", "updated": "2026-05-07T01:23:37+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/okd51f4/", "content": "4% is a dated metric. It’s a crude rule of thumb. I use Boldin to model my retirement over 3 decades. That number may start higher but come down as life events happen. No more mortgage, ss kicks in, cost of living goes down, etc….." }, { "id": "t1_ol0u3sc", "author": "", "updated": "2026-05-10T16:43:35+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/ol0u3sc/", "content": "[deleted]" }, { "id": "t1_ol3adg6", "author": "/u/kevreh", "updated": "2026-05-11T00:17:34+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/ol3adg6/", "content": "Online site/tool to let you forecast and plan retirement. Boldin.com. Lot of good YouTube videos on how to use it." }, { "id": "t1_ol4jgou", "author": "", "updated": "2026-05-11T05:17:03+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/ol4jgou/", "content": "[deleted]" }, { "id": "t1_ol60ojl", "author": "/u/kevreh", "updated": "2026-05-11T12:24:20+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/ol60ojl/", "content": "Yeah, that’s why using it has been a real eye opener for me. Very cool to be able to plan different scenarios similar to your situation. The first 2 to 3 years of retirement for me would have a higher spending, and then once certain life events kick in (like paying off a mortgage and starting on Social Security) monthly expenses would drop significantly. Adding random expenses in your case, like a new car, is easy to do I just can’t remember what the menu name is to add that expense right now. I’ve spent some time learning the tool, and I’m always learning about new features. It seems simple on the face but once you spend time with it it becomes very flexible.\n I happily paid for the annual subscription, it unlocks more features and is well worth it. I’ve had a few financial advisors over the years and I moved on, learned what I had to learn so paying $100 something for the enhanced Boldin is no big deal." }, { "id": "t1_okc6qzt", "author": "/u/PHL1365", "updated": "2026-05-06T22:13:59+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/okc6qzt/", "content": "I'm similar, but leaning more towards full expatFIRE with the option to return comfortably. This will let me pull the trigger earlier. There's a very good chance that I can live off of 25-50% of my portfolio returns for the indefinite future." }, { "id": "t1_okceee8", "author": "/u/Pretty_Swordfish", "updated": "2026-05-06T22:55:01+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/okceee8/", "content": "A 2% WR abroad will give you a lot of flexibility later to spend more when/if you return. Good luck!" }, { "id": "t1_okcneet", "author": "/u/PHL1365", "updated": "2026-05-06T23:44:02+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/okcneet/", "content": "Well, I'm hoping that my inflation-adjusted returns will be around 7-8%, so it could be as much as 4% WR, but I am budgeting for <2% when combined with SS/Pension. Should make for a good sized war chest when I hit my seventies." }, { "id": "t1_oklf3hi", "author": "/u/Betterway50", "updated": "2026-05-08T07:15:25+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/oklf3hi/", "content": "Factor in $700/mo per person for health insurance (Medicare, MediGap, meds, eyes, ears, co-pays, etc) then more for elder care" }, { "id": "t1_okdiaw4", "author": "/u/Dilldo__Baggins", "updated": "2026-05-07T02:39:32+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/okdiaw4/", "content": "What number do you think gets you to that point?" }, { "id": "t1_okjjbj5", "author": "/u/Ill-Telephone-7926", "updated": "2026-05-07T23:24:53+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/okjjbj5/", "content": "I inflation adjust my goals every year" }, { "id": "t1_okk9p3u", "author": "/u/MWL-camper", "updated": "2026-05-08T02:10:54+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/okk9p3u/", "content": "Seems like a high median no?" }, { "id": "t1_oksd1n6", "author": "/u/CenlaLowell", "updated": "2026-05-09T08:02:16+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/oksd1n6/", "content": "Understood but don't let time get in the way too much. I'm stopping somewhere between 55-59 no matter what. " Just one more year" isn't happening to me" }, { "id": "t1_okw60c6", "author": "/u/olooy", "updated": "2026-05-09T21:49:25+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/okw60c6/", "content": "I would not want to retire early to live in the median place of america." }, { "id": "t1_ok9t3pz", "author": "/u/Bjorn_Nittmo", "updated": "2026-05-06T15:50:34+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/ok9t3pz/", "content": "$2 million today buys what $1 million bought in 1999.\n In that sense, $2 million is the new $1 million.\n $1 million is arguably not enough to retire on anymore." }, { "id": "t1_oka0ai9", "author": "/u/GambledMyWifeAway", "updated": "2026-05-06T16:22:29+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/oka0ai9/", "content": "In most places it’s not. 40k in some areas of the Midwest can give you a pretty comfortable life as long as you budget well." }, { "id": "t1_ok9yoqp", "author": "/u/Several_Guidance_288", "updated": "2026-05-06T16:15:18+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/ok9yoqp/", "content": "1mm is more than enough to retire on for the vast majority. It’s better than over 95% of current retirees. It’s in the top 3-4 percentile.\n Median is like 200k in savings and yet the vast majority of them make it.\n Now, is it enough to retire and live the lifestyle you want? That much is debatable and may not be the case for some. But in reality, it is more than enough to where most could probably live a very good retirement including travel, hobbies, etc and be done.\n Especially if you are in a dual household with two social securities. All of the sudden you are looking at 90k or more safe income, when median retirement household is like 57/58k." }, { "id": "t1_okagppz", "author": "/u/A_Guy_Named_John", "updated": "2026-05-06T17:33:59+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/okagppz/", "content": "Most retirees have social security to supplement the portfolio significantly. You can’t really compare the average retiree’s balance to someone retiring early because of that." }, { "id": "t1_okaw650", "author": "/u/Several_Guidance_288", "updated": "2026-05-06T18:41:12+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/okaw650/", "content": "Sure but my idea of “early” is probably like 58/59. My numbers of need are a lot closer to that of an average retiree in this regard rather than needing to live without social for 20 years and retiring at 45\n So my point was merely that for most, 1mm is more than enough. Even for a lot of early retirees, it’s enough. Though tighter than many on this site would probably prefer, and very tight for those retiring at 45 rather than 55 or later." }, { "id": "t1_oknpwe1", "author": "/u/Freedom2334", "updated": "2026-05-08T15:41:56+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/oknpwe1/", "content": "Currenlty 41 and my goal is retired at 55 with at least 2.5M. On track to reach 2M at 50 years old if the market continues to perform. I guess we will see. Currently 100% stocks once I'm 50 will go down to 90/10," }, { "id": "t1_okdrral", "author": "/u/Hairless_Gash", "updated": "2026-05-07T03:39:15+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/okdrral/", "content": "Remember who you're chatting with in this sub. Not the 'vast majority'. I think many of us with 2 or more genuinely have an argument for it not being enough" }, { "id": "t1_okbb1ji", "author": "/u/beambot", "updated": "2026-05-06T19:47:00+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/okbb1ji/", "content": "As of 2023, the 90th percentile for 65yo net worth in the US was $2.9M -- so no, $1M isn't the top 3-4 percent. The 75th percentile was $1.15M.\n https://dqydj.com/net-worth-by-age-calculator/" }, { "id": "t1_okbt2ob", "author": "/u/Several_Guidance_288", "updated": "2026-05-06T21:07:11+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/okbt2ob/", "content": "Reading a little more. 1 million in retirement accounts puts you about 4.7% percent. So I wasn’t far off.\n But yeah, with homes and other things, net worth is higher. But if you are just talking invested liquid assets, 1 million is a ton and well inside the top 10% it appears based on multiple things I’m reading.\n For all retirees even top 10% total net worth including all assets is 1.9 million. At 65-74, it’s 2.9 total.\n Lots of numbers to digest" }, { "id": "t1_okbnxgi", "author": "/u/Several_Guidance_288", "updated": "2026-05-06T20:44:01+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/okbnxgi/", "content": "Must have got my numbers wrong. Damn AI screws me again.\n But Particularly for liquid net worth which is what we were talking about, since it’s withdrawing if investments. 1 million is way more then median and better than 75% in liquid net worth. So it’s enough for just about anyone in terms of a basic retirement need, and for most even some luxuries. But it doesn’t cover all lifestyles of course." }, { "id": "t1_okcf6px", "author": "/u/ski_town", "updated": "2026-05-06T22:59:16+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/okcf6px/", "content": "Seriously these out of touch folks with their $1m is nothing echo chamber" }, { "id": "t1_oke9jn0", "author": "/u/geomaster", "updated": "2026-05-07T05:51:16+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/oke9jn0/", "content": "how could you even retire with only 200k savings. the only way is with significant pension as well as SS" }, { "id": "t1_ok9ubf6", "author": "/u/ShowdownValue", "updated": "2026-05-06T15:55:53+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/ok9ubf6/", "content": "Agreed. $40k a year isn’t enough" }, { "id": "t1_ok9vre6", "author": "/u/shotparrot", "updated": "2026-05-06T16:02:14+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/ok9vre6/", "content": "Howabout $47,000 + $40,000 from SS at age 62 = $87,000?" }, { "id": "t1_ok9z9lh", "author": "/u/Bjorn_Nittmo", "updated": "2026-05-06T16:17:54+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/ok9z9lh/", "content": "I suspect that most people that will receive $40,000/yr from Social Security are accustomed to spending a lot more than $87,000 a year." }, { "id": "t1_okagiqz", "author": "/u/wallstreet-butts", "updated": "2026-05-06T17:33:10+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/okagiqz/", "content": "They are also not retiring super early. SS earnings are based on the average of your highest 35 years of earnings. By definition most people who have maximized their SS benefits are going to be pretty darn close to a normal retirement age." }, { "id": "t1_okalo7o", "author": "/u/shotparrot", "updated": "2026-05-06T17:55:03+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/okalo7o/", "content": "Not if they finally pay off that pesky house, and sell an extra car." }, { "id": "t1_ok9x539", "author": "/u/ShowdownValue", "updated": "2026-05-06T16:08:26+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/ok9x539/", "content": "That would obviously work better than $40k" }, { "id": "t1_ok9z2k3", "author": "/u/Hawkes75", "updated": "2026-05-06T16:17:01+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/ok9z2k3/", "content": "Problem is getting old enough for SS eligibility. If you want to FIRE you'll have an arbitrary number of gap years." }, { "id": "t1_oka157i", "author": "/u/Numerous-Cup1863", "updated": "2026-05-06T16:26:15+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/oka157i/", "content": "Bridge income is what’s needed." }, { "id": "t1_ok9zt7q", "author": "/u/Main-Ad-841", "updated": "2026-05-06T16:20:20+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/ok9zt7q/", "content": "Sure, at 62+ you get a nice jump from SS, but most here are hoping to be done before their 60s." }, { "id": "t1_okc115a", "author": "/u/voldin91", "updated": "2026-05-06T21:45:02+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/okc115a/", "content": "Dude I was (mentally) ready to retire by 25 lol. That's how I found fire. Kill me now if I have to wait until my 60s" }, { "id": "t1_okdyhdx", "author": "/u/shotparrot", "updated": "2026-05-07T04:25:38+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/okdyhdx/", "content": "Just keep grinding. Enjoy those 2 week vacations & long weekends. Live your life now! You'll get there eventually." }, { "id": "t1_ok9zpt8", "author": "/u/vulkoriscoming", "updated": "2026-05-06T16:19:55+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/ok9zpt8/", "content": "That exceeds my MCOL area spend. But I have paid for house, cars, trailer, and boat. I also prefer camping to air travel and visiting cities." }, { "id": "t1_okw8pd0", "author": "/u/olooy", "updated": "2026-05-09T22:04:52+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/okw8pd0/", "content": "I prefer my bed to camping." }, { "id": "t1_oka2q6e", "author": "/u/Beaver-on-fire", "updated": "2026-05-06T16:33:20+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/oka2q6e/", "content": "I live off 25K a year currently, somehow I could probably manage on 40." }, { "id": "t1_oka5goj", "author": "/u/ShowdownValue", "updated": "2026-05-06T16:45:44+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/oka5goj/", "content": "Turns out personal finance is well, personal.\n Hopefully you can understand why $40k wouldn’t be be close to enough for millions of others." }, { "id": "t1_okbky5x", "author": "/u/Vipu2", "updated": "2026-05-06T20:30:24+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/okbky5x/", "content": "Nothing is enough for most people because of lifestyle inflation once they get that money." }, { "id": "t1_okcfeqt", "author": "/u/ski_town", "updated": "2026-05-06T23:00:26+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/okcfeqt/", "content": "Read what you just said and read your previous post. The irony" }, { "id": "t1_okfi6al", "author": "/u/Beaver-on-fire", "updated": "2026-05-07T11:53:55+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/okfi6al/", "content": "Exactly!" }, { "id": "t1_okgxq9f", "author": "/u/ShowdownValue", "updated": "2026-05-07T16:04:17+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/okgxq9f/", "content": "Right. I meant for my situation. I didn’t mean to imply that it’s not enough for everyone. I get that everyone’s situations are different.\n I know people can live on less. They should also realize that many cannot. Hence me agreeing with “$1m isn’t enough.”" }, { "id": "t1_ok9wnuq", "author": "/u/Kooky_Dev_", "updated": "2026-05-06T16:06:17+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/ok9wnuq/", "content": "for some." }, { "id": "t1_ok9x2gb", "author": "/u/ShowdownValue", "updated": "2026-05-06T16:08:07+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/ok9x2gb/", "content": "True. It all depends on lifestyle and where you live" }, { "id": "t1_oka1uxb", "author": "/u/tankdream", "updated": "2026-05-06T16:29:25+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/oka1uxb/", "content": "I plan to maybe spend half of the time in China and half in Australia, with rental income from my house in Australia, I feel like I could make 40k a year work lol but still a bit worried as I won’t be repaying mortgage actually, fully offset. But then I wonder if it’s safe or a good idea to leave money in offset account…" }, { "id": "t1_oka6fgy", "author": "/u/boringexplanation", "updated": "2026-05-06T16:50:04+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/oka6fgy/", "content": "Timing is important in that calculation. $1M invested fully into the stock market as early as 2020 would’ve been more than fine" }, { "id": "t1_okacspa", "author": "/u/TooMuchButtHair", "updated": "2026-05-06T17:17:24+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/okacspa/", "content": "Not enough for the early part, but for people with a pension and/or SS and a paid off house, maybe." }, { "id": "t1_okadqw3", "author": "/u/Bjorn_Nittmo", "updated": "2026-05-06T17:21:25+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/okadqw3/", "content": "Yeah, fair." }, { "id": "t1_okb24yg", "author": "/u/Special-Camel-6114", "updated": "2026-05-06T19:07:40+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/okb24yg/", "content": "“$2 million today buys what $1 million bought in 1999”\n Except when it comes to important things like housing, energy, healthcare, and education. Then the price increases are far more drastic." }, { "id": "t1_okasz9c", "author": "/u/Lehcen", "updated": "2026-05-06T18:27:00+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/okasz9c/", "content": "Maybe in the states. Another anywhere else it’s more than enough to live very comfortably" }, { "id": "t1_okbad7k", "author": "/u/Bjorn_Nittmo", "updated": "2026-05-06T19:44:04+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/okbad7k/", "content": "True. Though most citizens of "Anywhere Else" aren't able to scrape together US$1 million in their lifetime" }, { "id": "t1_okbl895", "author": "/u/Marketing_Guy_2023", "updated": "2026-05-06T20:31:42+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/okbl895/", "content": "But he/she has $2 million..." }, { "id": "t1_okw7u0y", "author": "/u/olooy", "updated": "2026-05-09T21:59:49+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/okw7u0y/", "content": "Yup. Could get a civic for $10k back then." }, { "id": "t1_ok9z1gi", "author": "/u/mirageofstars", "updated": "2026-05-06T16:16:54+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/ok9z1gi/", "content": "Congratulations on your milestone. One thing you may want to consider is being cautious about sharing that information, especially since you are single. That 2M number can become zero with the wrong partner faster than you would believe. So if you are still in the dating scene, and especially if you’re thinking of having kids one day, I would suggest having financial compatibility high in your list of things you look for in a partner." }, { "id": "t1_okby93u", "author": "/u/therealmenox", "updated": "2026-05-06T21:31:33+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/okby93u/", "content": "Rule number 1: Protect the bag at all costs!" }, { "id": "t1_oks9jhs", "author": "/u/CenlaLowell", "updated": "2026-05-09T07:29:55+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/oks9jhs/", "content": "Rule number 2: Never forget rule number 1" }, { "id": "t1_okffwao", "author": "/u/SimplySuzie3881", "updated": "2026-05-07T11:39:41+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/okffwao/", "content": "Excellent advice. Never share that info with potential partners. And a trust or prenup after consulting an attorney. Lots of peeps can put on a good show for a couple years for access to that money then change quickly and walk expecting half. If you didn’t build it together protect that money and your future life." }, { "id": "t1_okw30mz", "author": "/u/SDJ-KGR-3Amigos", "updated": "2026-05-09T21:32:29+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/okw30mz/", "content": "💯this. I watched one sibling give up half, which he acknowledged is fair after two decades together, but still was a setback to retiring, and another that could’ve retired at like 45 but met the wrong person and now just has a never ending leech. My retirement goal is 4-5M because I’m married." }, { "id": "t1_oke974i", "author": "/u/Professional_Eye_990", "updated": "2026-05-07T05:48:27+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/oke974i/", "content": "Is a prenup sufficient? I’m worried about this for myself.." }, { "id": "t1_okeatvv", "author": "/u/TealPotato", "updated": "2026-05-07T06:01:47+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/okeatvv/", "content": "Can you put it into a trust?\n I'd definitely consult an attorney." }, { "id": "t1_okefti8", "author": "/u/Professional_Eye_990", "updated": "2026-05-07T06:44:01+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/okefti8/", "content": "That is excellent advice. Possibly the most important comment on reddit for me in some time. I will look into it and it looks like the optimal way to go in many cases. Thank you!!" }, { "id": "t1_okj9kq5", "author": "/u/TealPotato", "updated": "2026-05-07T22:29:51+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/okj9kq5/", "content": "Glad I could help!" }, { "id": "t1_okfs3or", "author": "/u/thaoden", "updated": "2026-05-07T12:50:14+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/okfs3or/", "content": "My father in-laws ex wife married a guy that owned a bunch of cell phone stores. (She worked there and was cheating on him with the owner) She convinced him to buy a yacht and retire in the Virgin Islands. They are now poor with no yacht because they spent all of his millions." }, { "id": "t1_okkosuf", "author": "", "updated": "2026-05-08T03:50:30+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/okkosuf/", "content": "[deleted]" }, { "id": "t1_okkp8ay", "author": "/u/thaoden", "updated": "2026-05-08T03:53:28+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/okkp8ay/", "content": "He's middle class earnings but spends every penny of it so yes he's broke." }, { "id": "t1_okuifap", "author": "/u/Humble_Wheel_3909", "updated": "2026-05-09T16:34:39+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/okuifap/", "content": "My mother in law can teach a class on gold digging - fourth husband with many bodies in her wake" }, { "id": "t1_okkolc4", "author": "", "updated": "2026-05-08T03:49:03+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/okkolc4/", "content": "[deleted]" }, { "id": "t1_oks9oki", "author": "/u/CenlaLowell", "updated": "2026-05-09T07:31:14+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/oks9oki/", "content": "There's absolutely no way I would get married if I came that far financially by myself. No way" }, { "id": "t1_oknxsyu", "author": "/u/Professional_Eye_990", "updated": "2026-05-08T16:16:40+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/oknxsyu/", "content": "Thank you!! This is also very helpful!\n I own my own home purchased pre-marriage, my name only on the title/deed but I may want to purchase rentals in the future, could be with or without my partner but as of now it would be my funds. I also have most money in retirement and plan on building up my taxable for FIRE bridge.\n I know my FIRE numbers and expect to hit coast by 42 and FIRE by 49-50. He is broke and paying off debt still, makes much less than me. I’ve never had a problem with it because he’s trying hard and has a good heart, but undoubtedly we will have very different lifestyles when he is 42-44 (he’s younger) and I’m 48-50 and retiring.\n He believes in separation of money but also holds a lot of resentment for people with higher paying jobs still he hasn’t landed one yet. Our current incomes are 200K apart. I mostly want to ensure my money will stay mind except for obvious shared resources or duties (if we have kids, shared rental or house, etc). I never realized it would be so hard if we marry to keep our assets and finances totally independent and each within our control.\n I would want a shared account just for like-payments for shared expenses, but otherwise I may want to go on more trips and enjoy life more than he is able to and I want to pay my own way for it all without risk of losing what I have. If I have 4M-7M by retirement, and he’s finally creeping up to his first 100K it will be extremely different situations. Emotionally it is fine for me but as long as there isn’t risk I will lose what I have.\n I’m okay with equitable contributions to a shared fund for shared expenses, as well as helping him and paying for more here and there, it would only make sense. But I want that to be and stay my decision for what support I gift or where I help, not a mandate.\n It sounds like I have some work to do to ensure my house, retirement, taxable are protected. I also am starting a business, and so on." }, { "id": "t1_okpw8n8", "author": "/u/sebbastiannn", "updated": "2026-05-08T21:48:10+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/okpw8n8/", "content": "Sounds like you are not ready to marry anyone. Suggest you get more comfortable with yourself and your situation. Get to a point where you can share travel and experiences together with your partner, regardless of who is paying." }, { "id": "t1_okpwzbr", "author": "/u/Professional_Eye_990", "updated": "2026-05-08T21:52:07+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/okpwzbr/", "content": "That’s on my mind too. I should feel comfortable along a number of dimensions with my partner before marrying given all of the financial legalities (I’m fairly comfortable with myself? Maybe missing something here). Otherwise, maybe not marry.\n The unfortunate reality is I would be comfortable quickly in those regards with someone in a better financial and career situation, someone in a more similar or equal place. But unless/until that changes if I carry forward with my current partner it’s probably better to not rush anything.\n It’s important to me after the years of working to progress to more freedom with my time, and ability to reduce income to standard levels at lower stress jobs. if I lost that through the wrong marriage, I’d likely regret it" }, { "id": "t1_oko1ync", "author": "/u/Professional_Eye_990", "updated": "2026-05-08T16:35:21+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/oko1ync/", "content": "For more context I have worked for 15 years in industry (7 in USA) and worked hard since I was legally allowed to (20 years now). He has only been in an office position a total of 1.5 years as of now. My trajectory and earnings were established well before meeting him a year or so ago, we are dating as of now but I could see marriage coming up soon.. and I would love to have kids!\n Is this all do-able in the way I’m imagining? Can I avoid a financial mess easily enough and keep my earnings and wealth separately in my control (whilst paying into shared expenses)? How risky is it, I would hope not overly!" }, { "id": "t1_oktaizx", "author": "/u/Mozerhustler", "updated": "2026-05-09T12:39:45+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/oktaizx/", "content": "This is a lot…. I’ll just say as someone who married a guy whose earning potential and savings were worlds apart of mine… it wasn’t good, and it cost me quite a bit of money. I paid snd paid dnd paid. I did get the kids!\n My advice would be - if you want kids, just have them on your own. Trust me it will be cheaper and easier! Get a live in nanny who won’t fight, argue, blow money in stupid things for kids.\n P.S. still paying my ex today too while having full custody of the kids!" }, { "id": "t1_okraicu", "author": "/u/AcaiSnob", "updated": "2026-05-09T02:51:22+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/okraicu/", "content": "Never date down as a woman. Never." }, { "id": "t1_okgt56d", "author": "/u/mirageofstars", "updated": "2026-05-07T15:44:22+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/okgt56d/", "content": "A prenup won’t save you if you willingly spend it all" }, { "id": "t1_okganbr", "author": "/u/Carele_P", "updated": "2026-05-07T14:21:29+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/okganbr/", "content": "Apart from that, knowing yourself well, not moving too fast and listening to alert bells should protect you. Dating doesn't mean you habe to marry quickly, or at all. If you have doubts slow down. If you are honest with yourself (i recommend a good amount of therapy before any lifelong choices) you will be able to see clearly if the person is likely to match your financial smarts or not.\n I may be wrong but I really think the ugly divorces are mostly people who got married early or out of desperation. If you can be as patient with dating as you were with saving it should go well." }, { "id": "t1_okwe31v", "author": "/u/hachidan_kiritsu", "updated": "2026-05-09T22:36:52+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/okwe31v/", "content": "A prenup is better than nothing. But it’s no guarantee." }, { "id": "t1_okjatf4", "author": "/u/Alarmed_Ferret_8715", "updated": "2026-05-07T22:36:40+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/okjatf4/", "content": "I met my now husband on a Solo FI facebook group" }, { "id": "t1_oklo2e5", "author": "/u/Early-Reaction-4857", "updated": "2026-05-08T08:31:57+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/oklo2e5/", "content": "Don’t marry. Co-habitation w/o letting the partner to pay utilities or co-own bank accounts/credit or refer to you as wife/husband. Look into a trust, but don’t marry." }, { "id": "t1_okrsfvf", "author": "/u/SpeechSilly267", "updated": "2026-05-09T05:00:52+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/okrsfvf/", "content": "Prenup conversations suck but they're way easier before things get serious than fighting about it later when emotions are high." }, { "id": "t1_okw6zhj", "author": "/u/mirageofstars", "updated": "2026-05-09T21:54:56+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/okw6zhj/", "content": "Yep. And if one’s potential partner gets angry and reactive when bringing up a prenup, that’s a good thing to know before marriage." }, { "id": "t1_oky4455", "author": "/u/SpeechSilly267", "updated": "2026-05-10T05:27:44+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/oky4455/", "content": "exactly, it's like a compatibility test you didn't know you needed. If they freak out over a straightforward financial conversation, that tells you something important about how you'll handle disagreements down the road." }, { "id": "t1_ok9qg01", "author": "/u/seanodnnll", "updated": "2026-05-06T15:39:00+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/ok9qg01/", "content": "Curious why did it take 9 years to go from 1 million to 2 million despite the market returning around 14% during that time, and you presumably contributing still." }, { "id": "t1_ok9x2np", "author": "/u/Available-Ad-5670", "updated": "2026-05-06T16:08:08+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/ok9x2np/", "content": "let's see...end of 2016 versus beg of 2025, so call it 8 years. and between then i had a layoff that derailed me for a year or so. without the layoff it probably would have been 7 years." }, { "id": "t1_okbgxzv", "author": "/u/App1eEater", "updated": "2026-05-06T20:12:34+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/okbgxzv/", "content": "?? With no additional input $1M would have reached $2.6M over that time frame??" }, { "id": "t1_okbw2sa", "author": "/u/Respectporn", "updated": "2026-05-06T21:21:10+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/okbw2sa/", "content": "When you’re laid off sometimes you have to still spend money" }, { "id": "t1_okc785w", "author": "/u/PHL1365", "updated": "2026-05-06T22:16:30+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/okc785w/", "content": "A lot of portfolios took a big hit in 2022. If that coincided with loss of income, it could be a pretty significant loss." }, { "id": "t1_okch0kf", "author": "/u/App1eEater", "updated": "2026-05-06T23:09:12+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/okch0kf/", "content": "Or he's lying" }, { "id": "t1_okekwif", "author": "/u/Available-Ad-5670", "updated": "2026-05-07T07:27:47+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/okekwif/", "content": "why do you think i'm lying about something so stupid as it taking 8 years to get from 1 to 2? why would i lie about a layoff?" }, { "id": "t1_okk14kq", "author": "/u/ralphy112", "updated": "2026-05-08T01:17:05+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/okk14kq/", "content": "No idea how this is invested either. Sometimes people are conservative in their investments, sometimes they're riskier. Not everyone is just in SPY 100%. Maybe he's got money tied up in real estate or some other lagger." }, { "id": "t1_ok9vrnq", "author": "/u/fenton7", "updated": "2026-05-06T16:02:16+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/ok9vrnq/", "content": "Many people don't do 100% stock. I personally backed off stocks some when I hit $1M so the journey to $2M took a bit longer but was far less stressful. Remember that's an asset class that, while it does amazing over 30 year periods, can have flat decades and 65% drops. Going from $1M back down to $350k would be most unpleasant. Some people have the risk tolerance for that. I don't." }, { "id": "t1_ok9xxuz", "author": "/u/seanodnnll", "updated": "2026-05-06T16:12:00+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/ok9xxuz/", "content": "Most people in the accumulation phase and aiming for fire are 100% stocks or as close to it as reasonably possible. You’re obviously allowed to be overly conservative but most people here aren’t.\n Op would have to be extremely conservative to have this trajectory especially if they were contributing at all." }, { "id": "t1_okbxwry", "author": "/u/therealmenox", "updated": "2026-05-06T21:29:54+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/okbxwry/", "content": "The trick is to go even more than 100% stocks for even more growth!" }, { "id": "t1_okd0pfj", "author": "/u/Green0Photon", "updated": "2026-05-07T00:58:58+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/okd0pfj/", "content": "80/20 stock bonds is out. 100/30 stock bonds is in" }, { "id": "t1_okw7ise", "author": "/u/olooy", "updated": "2026-05-09T21:58:01+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/okw7ise/", "content": "People with a mortgage on their home are essentially in that category. They are toast if home prices and stocks fall at the same time." }, { "id": "t1_okclkjk", "author": "", "updated": "2026-05-06T23:34:02+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/okclkjk/", "content": "[deleted]" }, { "id": "t1_okcnwxv", "author": "/u/seanodnnll", "updated": "2026-05-06T23:46:49+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/okcnwxv/", "content": "Disagree. People aiming for early retirement, necessarily need very high stock allocations, extremely high savings rates, or both. The market might make your journey harder or easier, but it doesn’t change that fact.\n This subreddit is definitely the outlier of the financial independence community, so I see all kinds of unique takes in here, but the overall trend in the early retirement community is being almost all stocks during accumulation, at least until very close to the retirement date." }, { "id": "t1_okdmsx1", "author": "", "updated": "2026-05-07T03:07:00+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/okdmsx1/", "content": "[deleted]" }, { "id": "t1_okeugvs", "author": "/u/seanodnnll", "updated": "2026-05-07T08:54:42+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/okeugvs/", "content": "Today I learnt that getting a positive return higher than inflation is “getting your ass kicked”…. Interesting." }, { "id": "t1_okdmzac", "author": "/u/Dilldo__Baggins", "updated": "2026-05-07T03:08:08+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/okdmzac/", "content": "My friend Warren recommended 90% stocks and 10% bonds" }, { "id": "t1_okc7t51", "author": "/u/PHL1365", "updated": "2026-05-06T22:19:36+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/okc7t51/", "content": "Yep. I sorta gambled on a 95+ percent stock allocation for 30-something years and it's paid off. Even with a few jobs that didn't have a 401k plan." }, { "id": "t1_okc8jhq", "author": "/u/seanodnnll", "updated": "2026-05-06T22:23:28+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/okc8jhq/", "content": "Over 30 years it’s historically been a guaranteed success so not much of a gamble. But as I said high stock allocations is extremely common in the fire community. This sub has always been a bit of an outlier as far as fire is concerned, but it’s definitely common in most FI subd and groups." }, { "id": "t1_okcm34r", "author": "/u/PHL1365", "updated": "2026-05-06T23:36:52+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/okcm34r/", "content": "I agree, but it seems like the common mantra is to go all in on stocks for the future. Average returns over the past 30 years have been historically high due to the internet/tech revolution. FWIW, google AI says the same thing:\n AI Overview\n Yes, the stock market has performed higher than its long-term average since 1995. While historical returns for the S&P 500 (1928-2024) often sit around 10%-11%, the compound annual growth rate from 1991 to 2020 was roughly 10.6%, with more recent 10-year and 20-year returns (as of 2026) often exceeding 12%-15%, particularly due to strong, tech-driven rallies. [ 1 , 2 , 3 ]" }, { "id": "t1_okcn7g6", "author": "/u/seanodnnll", "updated": "2026-05-06T23:42:59+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/okcn7g6/", "content": "I’m not talking about only the last 30 years. There has Never been a 30 year period in history where the market was negative. The lowest 30 year return of the S&P 500 is 8.5%." }, { "id": "t1_okcox47", "author": "/u/PHL1365", "updated": "2026-05-06T23:52:23+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/okcox47/", "content": "At one point, there was never a 50 year period where the British Empire was not expanding. But eventually there was.\n I contend that the next 30 years may have as much volatility as the previous 50-100, just because the world is changing so fast. And it's very possible that we've already harvested all the low-hanging fruit from the Tech tree.\n I also don't think the world's governments will know how to adapt to the coming demographic collapse, and I'm not even considering climate change.\n Of course I would love to be proven wrong, for my kids' sake." }, { "id": "t1_okcrk7h", "author": "/u/seanodnnll", "updated": "2026-05-07T00:07:18+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/okcrk7h/", "content": "I suppose it’s possible we have an event in the future far worse than the Great Depression, but if not my point still stands. As far as the last 50-100 years that would still support my point." }, { "id": "t1_oka7q2f", "author": "/u/Available-Ad-5670", "updated": "2026-05-06T16:55:45+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/oka7q2f/", "content": "Who you calling a bot😄" }, { "id": "t1_okc8yyz", "author": "/u/paladyr", "updated": "2026-05-06T22:25:45+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/okc8yyz/", "content": "Yeah I'm with you. I look at what a -50% loss would look like to my overall portfolio and let that decide how much I have in the stock market. I'm past my fire number and there's no way I would let a big market crash derail that sense of safety." }, { "id": "t1_okw7d2j", "author": "/u/TeachingOk2591", "updated": "2026-05-09T21:57:06+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/okw7d2j/", "content": "Agree u/fenton7 - this is not discussed enough - what goes up can and will go down - and sometimes stays down. The folks that haven't lived through a prolonged drop - think 2008 episode - where one took 100's of k's hits - it was rough and it stayed that way for a few years - not weeks. You have to diversify or - live by the sword..." }, { "id": "t1_ok9qzrm", "author": "/u/Al_Pallll", "updated": "2026-05-06T15:41:25+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/ok9qzrm/", "content": "Same. Was wondering if OP went coastFIRE or something like that. I feel like overwhelmingly you hear about folks who hit 1 mil, continue to grind, and hit 2 mil in 5 years or less. Would be interesting to hear from people who backed off and let compound interest handle the rest." }, { "id": "t1_ok9wwrx", "author": "/u/Kat9935", "updated": "2026-05-06T16:07:24+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/ok9wwrx/", "content": "I retired in 2015 with $1M, we are a hair under $2.5M now with my honey working some part time gigs <$30k/yr so drawing down but more at 2% SWR with the job.\n We didn't hit the $2M market until Sept 2025, and now are at $2.5M, thats how insane it is.\n I think people forget once you retire you probably shouldn't be aggressively 100% in stock. With a much more balanced portfolio you are doing fine, but not the crazy returns that the young and have 30 years to go crowd may have." }, { "id": "t1_ok9x8ih", "author": "/u/Available-Ad-5670", "updated": "2026-05-06T16:08:52+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/ok9x8ih/", "content": "i did go from 2m to 2.5m in 1.2 years. so there's that" }, { "id": "t1_ok9wbsi", "author": "/u/shotparrot", "updated": "2026-05-06T16:04:48+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/ok9wbsi/", "content": "I "Backed off", as in stopped contributing completely 3 years ago, and it STILL doubled in 3 years! Great market we're in. I hope it lasts forever (IOW 3 more years haha)." }, { "id": "t1_oka8af8", "author": "/u/seanodnnll", "updated": "2026-05-06T16:58:12+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/oka8af8/", "content": "Even without contributions it’s should have been faster than that. Seems they were either withdrawing or just had a very conservative asset allocation. Or they weren’t particularly accurate on their timeframe. Based on OP’s comments maybe a combination of all 3." }, { "id": "t1_okel1ge", "author": "/u/Available-Ad-5670", "updated": "2026-05-07T07:29:01+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/okel1ge/", "content": "i had some stocks that didn't do so well, time frame was really 8 years. it is what it is, why do people care so much?" }, { "id": "t1_okeprin", "author": "/u/seanodnnll", "updated": "2026-05-07T08:11:39+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/okeprin/", "content": "In fairness you posted on social media to discuss something, so it’s not exactly unheard of that people discuss it. And if it doesn’t make sense it’s normal to question it. Plus, if you actually are massively underperforming the markets it’s certainly interesting and useful to understand why." }, { "id": "t1_okerutp", "author": "/u/Available-Ad-5670", "updated": "2026-05-07T08:30:46+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/okerutp/", "content": "Sure, but it’s wierd that people say I’m lying because it took 8 years to double and not 7 or whatever. I think it’s more of a projection on themselves because people are so locked in to the view that it takes a standard amount of time for money to grows and it’s automatic for everyone" }, { "id": "t1_okeud5j", "author": "/u/seanodnnll", "updated": "2026-05-07T08:53:47+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/okeud5j/", "content": "I don’t think people think it takes a standard amount of time, but you’re talking about history, and the market returns are known for that period and extremely high. One person said you might be lying, I don’t think replies as a whole are calling you a liar, I think people are curious where the disconnect between your personal growth rate and the market came from. Obviously no one is going to force you to discuss it, but since you posted a topic for discussion you shouldn’t be surprised others are discussing it." }, { "id": "t1_okewpr4", "author": "/u/Available-Ad-5670", "updated": "2026-05-07T09:15:10+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/okewpr4/", "content": "I had some worse then optimal returns on some investments and I was laid off for a time" }, { "id": "t1_ok9u8jy", "author": "/u/b1gb0n312", "updated": "2026-05-06T15:55:32+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/ok9u8jy/", "content": "How much would 1m invested in 2015 be worth now?" }, { "id": "t1_ok9vlll", "author": "/u/FiIQ", "updated": "2026-05-06T16:01:31+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/ok9vlll/", "content": "3.8ish million" }, { "id": "t1_oka2iak", "author": "/u/b1gb0n312", "updated": "2026-05-06T16:32:20+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/oka2iak/", "content": "Nice. Wish I had 1m back then" }, { "id": "t1_ok9y9sl", "author": "/u/seanodnnll", "updated": "2026-05-06T16:13:28+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/ok9y9sl/", "content": "1 million invested in the total stock market at the start of 2017 (as far back as I can go on portfolio visualizer) it’s worth 3.8 two more years of good returns would be even more." }, { "id": "t1_ok9z75i", "author": "/u/blisstaker", "updated": "2026-05-06T16:17:36+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/ok9z75i/", "content": "yeah this post scared me" }, { "id": "t1_ok9rnvx", "author": "", "updated": "2026-05-06T15:44:19+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/ok9rnvx/", "content": "[deleted]" }, { "id": "t1_oka009j", "author": "/u/Zphr", "updated": "2026-05-06T16:21:12+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/oka009j/", "content": "OP is not only obviously human, but has a far longer and deeper posting history in FIRE subreddits than you do." }, { "id": "t1_okctnpj", "author": "/u/Effective_Tackle_195", "updated": "2026-05-07T00:19:11+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/okctnpj/", "content": "This is obviously written with AI. The fact that he might have a posting history doesn't change that at all." }, { "id": "t1_okcuqic", "author": "/u/Zphr", "updated": "2026-05-07T00:25:17+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/okcuqic/", "content": "Being written by AI (bots) is against the rules of the sub. Being written with AI (human tool use) is not." }, { "id": "t1_okcuynv", "author": "/u/Effective_Tackle_195", "updated": "2026-05-07T00:26:33+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/okcuynv/", "content": "I never reported him. You actively came here to deny it.\n If I thought it was a bot I would have reported." }, { "id": "t1_okcw7d5", "author": "/u/Zphr", "updated": "2026-05-07T00:33:39+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/okcw7d5/", "content": "Your comment got pulled by Reddit's automated abuse and harassment filter, which is why it was brought to our attention and I responded to you. Automod sends such things to mods for review just like user reports." }, { "id": "t1_ok9xasw", "author": "/u/Wooden-Broccoli-913", "updated": "2026-05-06T16:09:09+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/ok9xasw/", "content": "Some people were properly diversified is why" }, { "id": "t1_ok9uwsj", "author": "/u/LifeOnly716", "updated": "2026-05-06T15:58:30+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/ok9uwsj/", "content": "Wait until you hit 3 million. If today’s market holds, today is the day for me!" }, { "id": "t1_okaan83", "author": "/u/MartySpiderManMcFly", "updated": "2026-05-06T17:08:21+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/okaan83/", "content": "Congrats! I’m watching mine like a hawk. $3m is about $30k and change away for me" }, { "id": "t1_okc12uk", "author": "/u/LifeOnly716", "updated": "2026-05-06T21:45:16+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/okc12uk/", "content": "Cheers 🍻!" }, { "id": "t1_okk1chr", "author": "/u/ralphy112", "updated": "2026-05-08T01:18:29+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/okk1chr/", "content": "Same. 2.86 was my high recently. I fully expect it to pull back 100k at some point though. The markets been on a tear." }, { "id": "t1_okkm2v5", "author": "/u/MartySpiderManMcFly", "updated": "2026-05-08T03:31:47+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/okkm2v5/", "content": "Funny I got up to $2.89 today and then closed at $2.79. I do agree though. I’ll probably hit $3 finally and then it’ll drop" }, { "id": "t1_ok9xjoo", "author": "/u/4N59KG8S9E04S", "updated": "2026-05-06T16:10:16+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/ok9xjoo/", "content": "Same for me @2M. Hold or not, you passed the line. +10k. -20k. +15k. +10k. That's what it's like for me lol. Volatile but up!" }, { "id": "t1_okakrbq", "author": "/u/nothatsmyarm", "updated": "2026-05-06T17:51:11+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/okakrbq/", "content": "1M was my milestone today, actually. Interesting it all lined up like that." }, { "id": "t1_okc10qa", "author": "/u/LifeOnly716", "updated": "2026-05-06T21:44:58+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/okc10qa/", "content": "The next one will be quicker. The third likely even quicker than the second!" }, { "id": "t1_okcerj8", "author": "/u/4N59KG8S9E04S", "updated": "2026-05-06T22:57:00+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/okcerj8/", "content": "Yup. 1M, 4yrs ago. 2M today." }, { "id": "t1_okabcn9", "author": "/u/Mysterious9876", "updated": "2026-05-06T17:11:21+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/okabcn9/", "content": "so cool! congratulations!" }, { "id": "t1_okc16eq", "author": "/u/LifeOnly716", "updated": "2026-05-06T21:45:44+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/okc16eq/", "content": "Thank you kind stranger." }, { "id": "t1_okcn0ei", "author": "/u/EquitiesForLife", "updated": "2026-05-06T23:41:55+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/okcn0ei/", "content": "Im right behind you... $2.9M today. I was at $2.3M a year ago. I honestly dont even feel wealthy maybe because I live in a VHCOL area." }, { "id": "t1_ok9ri64", "author": "/u/Wooden-Buddy-3945", "updated": "2026-05-06T15:43:37+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/ok9ri64/", "content": "American numbers are just insane. Rest of us FIRE practitioners around the world grind decades for maybe 500K :(" }, { "id": "t1_ok9teyf", "author": "/u/Witty-Drama-3187", "updated": "2026-05-06T15:51:56+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/ok9teyf/", "content": "Yeah this is true. The comment about a stronger social safety net and likely lower COL in other parts of the world is true too. America can be a dog-eat-dog kinda place. In a lot of ways you have to take care of yourself." }, { "id": "t1_okjeyla", "author": "/u/Beautiful_Pepper415", "updated": "2026-05-07T22:59:33+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/okjeyla/", "content": "America is great for top 30% which is why many of the top international talent comes here" }, { "id": "t1_oka133f", "author": "/u/Several_Guidance_288", "updated": "2026-05-06T16:25:59+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/oka133f/", "content": "Most of it is just lifestyle. Most people COULD retire on something closer to 500k if they gave up luxuries and bought and owned a small home in a rural area. I’m assuming the 500k is just liquid. Most with 500k could probably add to it by moving from a bigger home closer to the city to a smaller rural home. Again, if they chose to.\n Most aren’t willing to do that, though. They have gotten a hold of the luxuries and won’t give them up. No problem. But in most cases it’s definitely by choice" }, { "id": "t1_oka1jad", "author": "/u/Wooden-Buddy-3945", "updated": "2026-05-06T16:27:59+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/oka1jad/", "content": "I also read that a lot of older Americans fully rely on social security and are working or plan to work well into their 70s. Not sure the percentage but the mindset/trajectory disparity is astounding." }, { "id": "t1_okjhoct", "author": "/u/FIlifesomeday", "updated": "2026-05-07T23:15:08+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/okjhoct/", "content": "We also don’t have many social safety nets so we are taxed less however must save more to cover that cost in early retirement." }, { "id": "t1_ok9stml", "author": "/u/khearan", "updated": "2026-05-06T15:49:21+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/ok9stml/", "content": "You have a stronger social safety net or live in a country with a much lower cost of living." }, { "id": "t1_ok9tah9", "author": "/u/Unlucky-Cook2578", "updated": "2026-05-06T15:51:23+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/ok9tah9/", "content": "I mean it depends on cost of living, and 500k what? Yen, Rupees, Dinar, USD?" }, { "id": "t1_ok9tf6w", "author": "/u/Wooden-Buddy-3945", "updated": "2026-05-06T15:51:57+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/ok9tf6w/", "content": "usd. I think that’s the one thing we do share, the measurement of currency in this subreddit" }, { "id": "t1_ok9x6h4", "author": "/u/MediumBusiness5370", "updated": "2026-05-06T16:08:36+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/ok9x6h4/", "content": "How’s your healthcare? Mine sucks and will cost me hundreds of thousands if I retire early." }, { "id": "t1_oka2e7d", "author": "/u/vulkoriscoming", "updated": "2026-05-06T16:31:49+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/oka2e7d/", "content": "Depending on your withdrawals and other income, you might be able to use a subsidized Obamacare plan.\n If not, check out health cost sharing. It is non-obamacare compliant and technically not "insurance". It is basically old school major medical, but it much cheaper than Obamacare. If you get really sick you just need to limp to the next open enrollment or just start a company and hire yourself to cause an Obamacare qualifying event and get a gold plated Obamacare policy, since preexisting conditions are now no problem." }, { "id": "t1_ok9x2c2", "author": "/u/Unlucky-Cook2578", "updated": "2026-05-06T16:08:06+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/ok9x2c2/", "content": "Id assume but then the point still stands 500k usd in Thailand goes further than 1M in America" }, { "id": "t1_ok9q4zz", "author": "/u/VinylHighway", "updated": "2026-05-06T15:37:40+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/ok9q4zz/", "content": "I’m over 2M but a lot of that is my house so it doesn’t generate income. I feel just as far away as before. But in like 8-10 years I can likely retire" }, { "id": "t1_oka2wh8", "author": "/u/slasher016", "updated": "2026-05-06T16:34:08+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/oka2wh8/", "content": "Yep I don't even think about my net worth at all. I think about my investment + savings. The house value does nothing for me as I expect it to be my forever home." }, { "id": "t1_oka3lxf", "author": "/u/VinylHighway", "updated": "2026-05-06T16:37:20+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/oka3lxf/", "content": "Same. I live in a very high cost of living city, and I'll never be able to afford a bigger/better home. Everything is timing, I got lucky." }, { "id": "t1_oka8miu", "author": "/u/capitalsfan08", "updated": "2026-05-06T16:59:38+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/oka8miu/", "content": "It's still a hedge against long term care costs as you will sell it when you move, and that's both completely unknowable today in terms if costs and timing. I also live in a HCOL area, so it does play into my mind at least in terms of "what's the leanest leanFIRE I can think of, and how close are we to that if shit hits the fan?". It's not the most important number, but writing it off completely seems almost as silly as counting it as fully liquid." }, { "id": "t1_ok9uklh", "author": "/u/fatheadlifter", "updated": "2026-05-06T15:57:01+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/ok9uklh/", "content": "You went from being a millionaire to being a multi-millionaire. The latter is much more meaningful. =)" }, { "id": "t1_okew253", "author": "/u/jybulson", "updated": "2026-05-07T09:09:10+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/okew253/", "content": "Sounds fantastic but in 2026 I'd talk about being a multi-millionare maybe at 5m. 30 years 2m was enough." }, { "id": "t1_okfu19w", "author": "/u/fatheadlifter", "updated": "2026-05-07T13:00:18+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/okfu19w/", "content": "It’s just technically true. 2m is the lowest level multimillionaire, but still a multimillionaire. It’s quite the accomplishment especially if you compare that to the median net worth of 200k or so." }, { "id": "t1_okcez8t", "author": "/u/ski_town", "updated": "2026-05-06T22:58:10+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/okcez8t/", "content": "Not really" }, { "id": "t1_oka71f4", "author": "", "updated": "2026-05-06T16:52:45+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/oka71f4/", "content": "[deleted]" }, { "id": "t1_okaaqtz", "author": "/u/Available-Ad-5670", "updated": "2026-05-06T17:08:48+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/okaaqtz/", "content": "Congrats!" }, { "id": "t1_okahus0", "author": "/u/Mysterious9876", "updated": "2026-05-06T17:38:50+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/okahus0/", "content": "awesome congrats" }, { "id": "t1_ok9zk8b", "author": "/u/PowerfulFly1326", "updated": "2026-05-06T16:19:14+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/ok9zk8b/", "content": "Same (in concept). When we combined finances as a couple we got to 1M fairly easily. Then when I hit 1M just in my accounts it was a milestone but nothing special. Then she hit 1M by herself. Same basic feeling. Then a sold my company, got a 1M bump and our combined NW is 5.5M+ and looking at it seems so mountain like.. life is so much easier when there is no financial stress. We are fairly frugal and simple people and live comfortably (with vacations and experiences, concerts are expensive now) for 120k/yr. But there are some months our NW grows by double that in just a month easily. Surreal." }, { "id": "t1_okde2po", "author": "/u/PrimalPhD", "updated": "2026-05-07T02:14:50+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/okde2po/", "content": "Speaking as a single person in mid 30s and currently at $2.5M...$2M is a game changer and is the first legitimate FIRE number IMO.\n $1M = Great start, I can retire but I'll be poor\n $2M = I don't have to work anymore and can be comfortable, but not at all lavish\n $3M = I can probably spend an extra $50k per year and not worry about it\n $4M = I'm flying business class any time I travel, and I'm travelling several times a year\n $5M = I'm fucking rich\n $3.5M is my FIRE number, and I'll withdraw conservatively until I'm at $4.5M" }, { "id": "t1_okq46fw", "author": "/u/BlueMountainCoffey", "updated": "2026-05-08T22:32:57+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/okq46fw/", "content": "$5M is a nightmare though" }, { "id": "t1_okqeovo", "author": "/u/PrimalPhD", "updated": "2026-05-08T23:34:28+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/okqeovo/", "content": "Why" }, { "id": "t1_okrdnjy", "author": "/u/BlueMountainCoffey", "updated": "2026-05-09T03:12:26+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/okrdnjy/", "content": "It’s a meme, could not resist" }, { "id": "t1_okrepsy", "author": "/u/Own_Egg", "updated": "2026-05-09T03:19:44+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/okrepsy/", "content": "https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=m0sRrsara9c" }, { "id": "t1_okw987d", "author": "/u/olooy", "updated": "2026-05-09T22:07:56+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/okw987d/", "content": "Ditto" }, { "id": "t1_ok9viva", "author": "/u/chinmakes5", "updated": "2026-05-06T16:01:11+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/ok9viva/", "content": "I realize this isn't the point, but you were able to add $500k in a year and that isn't the headline?\n I agree that 1 mill isn't the same as 2 mill, but being able to increase 25% in a year matters too." }, { "id": "t1_ok9xsdl", "author": "/u/Available-Ad-5670", "updated": "2026-05-06T16:11:20+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/ok9xsdl/", "content": "yes, i was focusing on the difference the 2m number makes in terms of peace of mind. but compounding is crazy when you hit higher numbers" }, { "id": "t1_okagku7", "author": "/u/bchhun", "updated": "2026-05-06T17:33:25+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/okagku7/", "content": "You forgot to mention you’re 29 years old so we can all silently rage but outwardly congratulate you." }, { "id": "t1_okaimss", "author": "/u/Available-Ad-5670", "updated": "2026-05-06T17:42:08+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/okaimss/", "content": "Naw early 50’s" }, { "id": "t1_ok9rz5i", "author": "/u/OnlyThePhantomKnows", "updated": "2026-05-06T15:45:40+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/ok9rz5i/", "content": "I personally never got the 1M, 2M milestone game. 25%, 50%, 100% were the milestones that I celebrated.\n 2M for you was " functional FI " 2.5 for you is comfortable FI. That 20K gives you your desired luxuries." }, { "id": "t1_ok9vtcm", "author": "/u/Direct_Remove509", "updated": "2026-05-06T16:02:29+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/ok9vtcm/", "content": "Flat round numbers are easy to see." }, { "id": "t1_okab8x9", "author": "/u/anteatertrashbin", "updated": "2026-05-06T17:10:55+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/okab8x9/", "content": "I truly love this. that we are all smashing our fire goals. it’s awesome that so many of us are becoming millionaires and multi millionaires on paper.\n At the same time, this terrifies me as well…" }, { "id": "t1_okac2jh", "author": "/u/Available-Ad-5670", "updated": "2026-05-06T17:14:20+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/okac2jh/", "content": "there's always downside risks.... its life. but i think no matter what the market does, the people on this sub are better prepared than everyone else" }, { "id": "t1_okagmqs", "author": "/u/anteatertrashbin", "updated": "2026-05-06T17:33:38+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/okagmqs/", "content": "yes very true." }, { "id": "t1_okahyfy", "author": "/u/Mysterious9876", "updated": "2026-05-06T17:39:16+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/okahyfy/", "content": "agreed" }, { "id": "t1_onv99ev", "author": "/u/squeadle", "updated": "2026-05-25T22:27:14+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/onv99ev/", "content": "Dollar is devaluing every day :/" }, { "id": "t1_ok9ucg9", "author": "/u/Chemical-Carrot-9975", "updated": "2026-05-06T15:56:01+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/ok9ucg9/", "content": "Same. And how fast 2 came following 1. Were we 2.2 now. Completely changed my mindset and all I can think about is hitting the magic number 3, when I can choose to not be employed anymore if I want." }, { "id": "t1_ok9xhgk", "author": "/u/LouNadeau", "updated": "2026-05-06T16:09:59+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/ok9xhgk/", "content": "Yeah. Sitting at 1.92 now. This year has been a yoyo. Slowly seeing the 2m light" }, { "id": "t1_ok9vj2w", "author": "/u/SickMon_Fraud", "updated": "2026-05-06T16:01:12+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/ok9vj2w/", "content": "$2.05 million for me as of today. Early 50s and cooked. So tempted to pull the trigger but know it’s too early." }, { "id": "t1_oka18ca", "author": "/u/Kat9935", "updated": "2026-05-06T16:26:38+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/oka18ca/", "content": "$2M does feel different. For me though its because once I crossed $1M I crossed it many many many many times as the market was very volitile, 2020 was the first time I didn't cross it in a downturn and even then barely kept above. Staying above $1M was really the mental click I needed... plus $2 to $2.5 jus tseemed insanely fast." }, { "id": "t1_oka6n4q", "author": "/u/Tripswitchnow", "updated": "2026-05-06T16:51:00+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/oka6n4q/", "content": "I have already retired, but more importantly to me than my portfolio number when I decided to retire early was the fact that the house and cars were paid off and there was enough liquid assets to cover a comfortable retirement even with market downturns." }, { "id": "t1_okae2og", "author": "/u/bingbong3421", "updated": "2026-05-06T17:22:48+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/okae2og/", "content": "$2M is now the benchmark for FIRE\n It definitely feels real when you can use the 4% rule and withdraw the median household income in the US (~$2.1M in assets gets you $84k a year)" }, { "id": "t1_okayjhh", "author": "/u/Funny_Season6113", "updated": "2026-05-06T18:51:47+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/okayjhh/", "content": "It becomes special when 10% of portfolio equals to 1.5-2.0x current annual salary. Keep grinding." }, { "id": "t1_okcy53s", "author": "/u/Available-Ad-5670", "updated": "2026-05-07T00:44:29+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/okcy53s/", "content": "this sounds arbitrary, did you make it up?" }, { "id": "t1_ok9rehc", "author": "/u/CndnCowboy1975", "updated": "2026-05-06T15:43:11+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/ok9rehc/", "content": "I totally feel you there - I feel the same, that 2M mark these days is a pretty significant milestone! And congrats! Super happy for you!" }, { "id": "t1_ok9w02e", "author": "/u/BothDescription766", "updated": "2026-05-06T16:03:20+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/ok9w02e/", "content": "Totally agree. Hit $2m 10 years ago and it provides a nice cushion." }, { "id": "t1_oka3s31", "author": "/u/Psynaut", "updated": "2026-05-06T16:38:07+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/oka3s31/", "content": "$6mm isn't my number, but i always thought the same way - if the market did a 50% pullback for years, I would still have $3mm and at a 4% withdrawal rate I would still be set with a comfortable life and travel." }, { "id": "t1_oka9jsp", "author": "/u/Available-Ad-5670", "updated": "2026-05-06T17:03:40+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/oka9jsp/", "content": "I would hope a 50% market pullback doesn’t mean a 50% portfolio drawdown lol" }, { "id": "t1_okb6z1j", "author": "/u/Psynaut", "updated": "2026-05-06T19:29:19+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/okb6z1j/", "content": "I doubt I would be more than 20% into fixed income for a while, so it could mean a 40% portfolio drawdown, which would be severe and painful. But remember, this is just a hypothetical thought exercise to figure out the number I would 'feel' totally safe at, and double my actual number is that number for that reason. It isn't my portfolio strategy." }, { "id": "t1_oka976c", "author": "/u/daninsatx", "updated": "2026-05-06T17:02:08+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/oka976c/", "content": "Did you use any of the 1M in the last 10 yrs? If you kept it invested, and grew it to 2M, you are right it showed what a good market can do, and doubling your money every 7 to 10 years is possible in low cost index funds. It will continue we hope good luck" }, { "id": "t1_okahwgw", "author": "/u/Time_Many6155", "updated": "2026-05-06T17:39:02+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/okahwgw/", "content": "Yes I think there is definitely a point where if the market dropped by 50% you would be just fine. For me (married couple) I retired in early 2014 with $1.3M. As of last night we were just under $4.5M, Plus paid off house and deferred pensions. Pretty freaking wonderful!" }, { "id": "t1_okbb8h9", "author": "/u/Funny_Ad8305", "updated": "2026-05-06T19:47:50+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/okbb8h9/", "content": "This is amazing. Do you might sharing what your annual withdrawal rate has been?" }, { "id": "t1_okbo6xt", "author": "/u/Time_Many6155", "updated": "2026-05-06T20:45:13+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/okbo6xt/", "content": "Currently 0.44%.. We have rental income too.. Mostly why we bought the house. The previous owner had installed a new manufactured home, a small cabin and the pasture was set up for horse boarding. All this extra income helped us pay off the house in 6 years and 3 months, it has continued to provide income in retirement. We live cheap so as to maximize our ACA subsidy.. Get a high deductible Bronze plan, then contribute the max to the HSA. We were paying $1:15 per month for Health insurance. I.e if you end up paying $8000 one year (I broke my wrist in 2019) then who cares, as long as you re reasonably healthy otherwise. Generally we have been spending about $40,000/year.\n Nobody wanted to buy the house.. It was 650 sqft on 5.4 acres.. But it had the rentals. We more than doubled the hose size with our own bare hands except the concrete forming and kitchen cabinets.\n If we took just the pensions and my SS (I'm 64, Wife is too young) then our WR would be negative. Really must figure out how to spend mo Money. Taxes and IRMAA penalties are going to nail us! Good problem to have though!" }, { "id": "t1_okao8qm", "author": "/u/osemec", "updated": "2026-05-06T18:06:06+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/okao8qm/", "content": "The first million is the hardest to make, so start with the second million." }, { "id": "t1_okav5ri", "author": "/u/thehandcollector", "updated": "2026-05-06T18:36:44+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/okav5ri/", "content": "For me, it wasn't until I hit four million that it hit me that I had blown past my target and could retire whenever I feel like. Probably because for me four million came right after three million without much breathing room." }, { "id": "t1_okb232e", "author": "/u/IHadTacosYesterday", "updated": "2026-05-06T19:07:26+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/okb232e/", "content": "I'm real close to 2 milly.\n Thank you Sundar Pichai and Lisa Su :)" }, { "id": "t1_okdprd5", "author": "/u/Slammedtgs", "updated": "2026-05-07T03:26:09+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/okdprd5/", "content": "I hit $1M in 2020, it was anticlimactic, I saw it coming from a mile away. It took me 4 more years to hit $2M which was also anticipated and just a check box.\n Today I hit $3M, unironically, I showed my wife and she asked if I wanted a happy meal (like I got for $1M) but she didn’t understand the significance that $3M is the time weight halfway point to $10M and similar to you, it’s very hard to have a catastrophic failure at this point.\n Congratulations on your milestones, the peace of mind is great." }, { "id": "t1_okq2cmq", "author": "/u/sebbastiannn", "updated": "2026-05-08T22:22:14+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/okq2cmq/", "content": "Explain this time weight concept please? 3.6 here at 55 and wondering what my 🎯 should even be." }, { "id": "t1_okqcy7t", "author": "/u/Slammedtgs", "updated": "2026-05-08T23:24:22+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/okqcy7t/", "content": "Stage Primary Driver Time @ $25K/yr Savings Time @ $100K/yr Savings $0 → $300K Your savings rate ~8 years ~2.5 years $300K → $1M Savings + compounding ~9 years ~5 years $1M → $3M Mostly compounding ~11 years ~8 years $3M → $10M Capital allocation & risk management ~14 years ~11 years At some point, the portfolio starts growing faster than you can contribute.\n Portfolio 8% Annual Growth $300K $24K/year $1M $80K/year $3M $240K/year $10M $800K/year That is why:\n • The first few hundred thousand feel painfully slow\n • $300K is often the “time weighted halfway point” to $1M\n • Higher wealth levels compound dramatically faster\n • High savings rates compress the early years, but compounding dominates later regardless\n The biggest shift in wealth building:\n Stage Primary Driver Approx. Time @ $25K/yr Contributions $0 → $300K Your savings rate ~8 years $300K → $1M Savings + compounding ~9 years $1M → $3M Mostly compounding ~11 years $3M → $10M Capital allocation & risk management ~14 years At some point, the portfolio starts growing faster than you can contribute.\n Portfolio 8% Annual Growth $300K $24K/year $1M $80K/year $3M $240K/year $10M $800K/year That is why:\n • The first few hundred thousand feel painfully slow\n • $300K is often called the “time weighted halfway point” to $1M\n • Higher wealth levels compound dramatically faster\n (Told chatgpt to summarize the concept so I didnt have to). Directionally, Its correct and you can see it in practice with a simple excel TVM model." }, { "id": "t1_okqjp50", "author": "/u/sebbastiannn", "updated": "2026-05-09T00:03:57+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/okqjp50/", "content": "thank you!" }, { "id": "t1_oke3icn", "author": "/u/Chulbiski", "updated": "2026-05-07T05:03:06+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/oke3icn/", "content": "when I hit $1M I never thought "I am a millionaire". I thought about how much of that money actually belonged to the government (fed & state) because of taxes. I thought about how misleading and falsely empowering the idea of "being a millionaire" actually was. I also realized that the purchasing power of that $1M (or however much of it I would have after taxes) pailed in significance to what it was several years ago. Strangly, hitting $1M for me was kind of depressing. I also realized that I should have hit $1M probably several years before I did and that there would not be enough time for that amount to grow into what I need by the time I want to retire. I have not even hit $2M yet and I should have done so 2 years ago." }, { "id": "t1_oke6l2j", "author": "/u/PoonTangProvence", "updated": "2026-05-07T05:27:18+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/oke6l2j/", "content": "Don’t “shoulda” all over yourself." }, { "id": "t1_okrywb9", "author": "/u/prdxw", "updated": "2026-05-09T05:55:18+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/okrywb9/", "content": "That’s depressing. When I hit a million, I retired." }, { "id": "t1_ol4hr5l", "author": "/u/Chulbiski", "updated": "2026-05-11T05:03:07+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/ol4hr5l/", "content": "that's awesome if you could do that. I need about 50% of what I already have in liquid form in addition to what I have saved already in order to move out of here and avoid being killed by taxes." }, { "id": "t1_oke7oq9", "author": "/u/stereoagnostic", "updated": "2026-05-07T05:36:13+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/oke7oq9/", "content": "10 years to double? The S&P has done over 250% over the last 10 years. You may want to fire your financial advisor." }, { "id": "t1_okecunt", "author": "/u/Available-Ad-5670", "updated": "2026-05-07T06:18:37+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/okecunt/", "content": "Fire myself?" }, { "id": "t1_oke92bt", "author": "/u/rex8499", "updated": "2026-05-07T05:47:23+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/oke92bt/", "content": "I just crossed $2M and it's started a lot of gears turning in my head about what an expat FIRE could look like if I decided to go that route soon." }, { "id": "t1_okecz58", "author": "/u/Available-Ad-5670", "updated": "2026-05-07T06:19:40+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/okecz58/", "content": "thinking that as well, a few years living overseas in a luxury lifestyle living below SWR, and come back wiser, with more money" }, { "id": "t1_ok9xvzy", "author": "/u/rivenwyrm", "updated": "2026-05-06T16:11:46+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/ok9xvzy/", "content": "Where I live, the 4% rule gives a number less than minimum wage for investments of $1M.\n As such it's clearly not a particularly ideal retirement target for this area." }, { "id": "t1_oka3pet", "author": "/u/Blindeafmuten", "updated": "2026-05-06T16:37:46+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/oka3pet/", "content": "There are places in the world where 1M gives a very good quality of life.\n And those places are ideal retirement targets.\n I mean if the target is to retire, why would someone retire in a HCOL area or country? Usually those places offer good professional opportunities, not good quality of life." }, { "id": "t1_oka5wa7", "author": "/u/rivenwyrm", "updated": "2026-05-06T16:47:42+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/oka5wa7/", "content": "Because almost all my family (parents, siblings, many nieces) on both sides lives within 50mi except for one branch of cousins.\n Everyone can have their own goals but assuming that the plan should always be to retire and immediately move to maximize spending efficiency ignores complexities of real life." }, { "id": "t1_oka8nb2", "author": "/u/Available-Ad-5670", "updated": "2026-05-06T16:59:44+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/oka8nb2/", "content": "Same here. I wished all my family lived in Ohio, or at least maybe Colorado" }, { "id": "t1_okb4buo", "author": "/u/rivenwyrm", "updated": "2026-05-06T19:17:26+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/okb4buo/", "content": "I wished all my family lived in Ohio\n I'd never wish that on my family, what a terrible thing to say!\n at least maybe Colorado\n now we're talking! rural Colorado or New Mexico" }, { "id": "t1_okadpc5", "author": "/u/AdmirableCaptain913", "updated": "2026-05-06T17:21:14+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/okadpc5/", "content": "I know for me, proximity to family is the driving factor.\n If I were at 3.2M I’d tell my manager to kick rocks, but that’s only a happy dream I wake up to once in a while. I think I need ~5-6 more years and that dream may come true." }, { "id": "t1_ok9y97q", "author": "/u/Better-Atmosphere271", "updated": "2026-05-06T16:13:24+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/ok9y97q/", "content": "This is good to know because I keep hearing that people reach a certain number and the goal posts just move.\n So nice to hear that there is a number that brings relative peace." }, { "id": "t1_okalbuv", "author": "/u/YinzerInEurope", "updated": "2026-05-06T17:53:35+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/okalbuv/", "content": "Hoping to do the same. 1 mil feels meh and just another day. Hoping 2 mil feels like real life changing." }, { "id": "t1_okawtkf", "author": "/u/Avidtrader81", "updated": "2026-05-06T18:44:06+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/okawtkf/", "content": "I agree. What I notice is at 2m the compounding really makes a huge difference. Especially when you see it can replace your work income." }, { "id": "t1_okk9lxv", "author": "/u/MWL-camper", "updated": "2026-05-08T02:10:21+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/okk9lxv/", "content": "It’s amazing to be at the point where I’m working because I want to/like to vs. need to. I have the number in my head though healthcare is a scary unknown even with strong investments.Definitely would protect assets if millionaire pre vows. My friend is going through a terrible divorce now where her husband is striving to take at least 50% of her hard earned investments. Lazy cheater." }, { "id": "t1_ok9w8il", "author": "/u/SpecialistKoala9765", "updated": "2026-05-06T16:04:22+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/ok9w8il/", "content": "Can I ask what annual spending level are you thinking when you concluded 2M feels more special to be FI?\n I was wondering if the implied drawdown rate would be better indicator than an absolute dollar amount ….\n Am I missing something ?" }, { "id": "t1_ok9yatn", "author": "/u/Available-Ad-5670", "updated": "2026-05-06T16:13:35+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/ok9yatn/", "content": "part of it is spending, i spend about 7-8k a month so need to be 2m plus to support spending at around a 4% rate" }, { "id": "t1_oka5hmf", "author": "/u/Dirks_Knee", "updated": "2026-05-06T16:45:51+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/oka5hmf/", "content": "You must live in a high income area or are very young to require that much as a single person to be considering FIRE." }, { "id": "t1_okahr1q", "author": "/u/cctv07", "updated": "2026-05-06T17:38:23+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/okahr1q/", "content": "How do you calculate the 2M? Do you include non liquid assets? What about retirement plans like 401k?" }, { "id": "t1_okalhsp", "author": "/u/kissing_the_beehive", "updated": "2026-05-06T17:54:17+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/okalhsp/", "content": "Congrats! I just hit 2M total NW as well (age 38). I live in a VHCoL city so not feeling totally comfortable yet (I’m frugal by nature). I guess if I got laid off I would take some time to think about my next move but I probably wouldn’t totally stop working unless I had 4-5M" }, { "id": "t1_okantr6", "author": "/u/Alone-Bug4328", "updated": "2026-05-06T18:04:17+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/okantr6/", "content": "I've been saying this for years. 2 M is the safe and awesome number for FIRE 1M FIRE is a thing of the past." }, { "id": "t1_okb4kfs", "author": "/u/Hot_Condition7760", "updated": "2026-05-06T19:18:31+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/okb4kfs/", "content": "God bless you. I am sure behind that numbers you put in lot of consistent hard work and dedication to savings and investing. Live well and be generous to people around you!" }, { "id": "t1_okb9jn4", "author": "/u/IndependentVisit7283", "updated": "2026-05-06T19:40:28+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/okb9jn4/", "content": "Are we talking invested assets or net worth?" }, { "id": "t1_okb9lgl", "author": "/u/ebar2010", "updated": "2026-05-06T19:40:41+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/okb9lgl/", "content": "We are at 1.9 in our investments and 2.5 net. Next year when we hit 2 in the banks, we are done. The math is saying that with what we plan to withdraw, our funds will continue to grow and out live us." }, { "id": "t1_okbjp3a", "author": "/u/weas71", "updated": "2026-05-06T20:24:46+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/okbjp3a/", "content": "no take on the feelings but it's wild how hard it can be when you start saving and how as the amount grows the compounding just takes off. I'm not at a mil yet but seeing the growth beyond 100K is wild." }, { "id": "t1_okbl9ao", "author": "/u/childs-is-human", "updated": "2026-05-06T20:31:50+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/okbl9ao/", "content": "I think I took my wife out in November to celebrate hitting 2 and we are already at 2.275 so it really feels like it starts to accelerate quickly." }, { "id": "t1_okd2o4u", "author": "/u/theotisfinklestein", "updated": "2026-05-07T01:10:02+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/okd2o4u/", "content": "It is crazy how your savings do all of the work in the beginning and then compound interest does all of the work when you get closer to retirement. My wife’s and my market gain over the last 3 years is more than double what our combined salary was for any 3 year period while I was working." }, { "id": "t1_okbp5pe", "author": "/u/Allmyexesliveintx333", "updated": "2026-05-06T20:49:34+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/okbp5pe/", "content": "Thank you for this. I think I needed to hear that I’m at 1.67 right now and although I’m not single, I am treating my income or my retirement separately for my husband as we married later in life that’s not how he’s treating it but that’s how I’m treating it and this gives me hope my goal is to be at 2.5 when I retire" }, { "id": "t1_okbz2ld", "author": "/u/Icy-Sheepherder-7595", "updated": "2026-05-06T21:35:29+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/okbz2ld/", "content": "At what age did you hit $1M and $2M if you don't mind me asking? Late 20s and I'm at $150k but feel behind, I admittedly had a lot of help in the sense that I've lived at home this whole time and drive my mom's car, it would be closer to $200k if I started investing earlier.\n But when I see posts like this it reminds me how much of a blip on the radar this money is that I have currently. I guess I can't really imagine what it would even feel like to reach this level of financial security." }, { "id": "t1_okcwkls", "author": "/u/Available-Ad-5670", "updated": "2026-05-07T00:35:42+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/okcwkls/", "content": "don't feel bad, i probably had less than 100k at your age. i didn't hit 1m until 44, and 2m at 52" }, { "id": "t1_oldrume", "author": "/u/Icy-Sheepherder-7595", "updated": "2026-05-12T14:52:46+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/oldrume/", "content": "I get what you're saying but with inflation $250k today is more like $100k 20-30 years ago, especially with home values increasing to levels I may never realistically afford. And I also was only able to do this since I lived at home the last few years which will end soon.\n So once I'm out I don't see my NW going much higher and if anything it will probably decrease. I had no life these past few years and I thought it would've rewarded me much more money which it didn't.\n I talk to my parents and realize the only reason they got so far was their homes accumulating value. I don't know if my generation will ever be able to take advantage of that. Cost of living will probably eat me alive once I leave and start living an actual life." }, { "id": "t1_oldtetl", "author": "/u/Available-Ad-5670", "updated": "2026-05-12T14:59:34+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/oldtetl/", "content": "yeah parent generation saw the biggest housing increases, which i don't think we'll see again from here. but you have to stay and invest to take advantage of compound growth. outside of a windfall, that is what it is. not everyone can be even a millionaire. i think 18% hh in the us are. that's pretty high, but most people end up around 300 - 800k" }, { "id": "t1_okcaoof", "author": "/u/Chops888", "updated": "2026-05-06T22:35:02+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/okcaoof/", "content": "1M was nice. About to hit 2M in the coming months. A lot sooner than we thought. Goal was to get to 2.5M or work another 5 years. I actually think we could hit 2.5M in less than 2 years time if the bull run keeps going. Our house is already paid off and we’re mindful spenders so it’s just a matter of time." }, { "id": "t1_okcc1ax", "author": "/u/RektRoyce", "updated": "2026-05-06T22:42:22+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/okcc1ax/", "content": "Tldr less than half my fire number not special almost fire number special" }, { "id": "t1_okck984", "author": "/u/IggyPop_corn", "updated": "2026-05-06T23:26:52+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/okck984/", "content": "As a single person, 2M is a huge accomplishment, congratulations! More impressive IMO than when a couple hits that number. As a single filer you likely are in a higher tax bracket which puts a little less money in your pocket to save. At 2.5M you are financially independent and this puts you in the driver seat. It’s an amazing feeling." }, { "id": "t1_okd5y4z", "author": "/u/junglingforlifee", "updated": "2026-05-07T01:28:44+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/okd5y4z/", "content": "Congratulations! Is that all liquid or mixed with retirement accounts?" }, { "id": "t1_okd7tzx", "author": "/u/Total_Rate316", "updated": "2026-05-07T01:39:32+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/okd7tzx/", "content": "That because 2 go to 4 with those kinda money" }, { "id": "t1_okd8gep", "author": "/u/2ndAccountFIRE", "updated": "2026-05-07T01:43:00+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/okd8gep/", "content": "We waited to 2.5M with our house mortgage paid off to FIRE. We moved to the US and have been homeschooling our kids, and when hey all get to at least 4 yo, we'll start to spend 6 months a year world schooling.\n 2 years in our NW (excluding property) is 2.9M, so in another 4 years we should be golden." }, { "id": "t1_okdjuom", "author": "/u/CraftTop4698", "updated": "2026-05-07T02:48:46+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/okdjuom/", "content": "How if that 2 mil is in 401k early penalties or not?" }, { "id": "t1_okdos05", "author": "/u/PocketDeuces", "updated": "2026-05-07T03:19:42+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/okdos05/", "content": "Is this savings or net worth?" }, { "id": "t1_okdp1ge", "author": "/u/Gr8Autoxr", "updated": "2026-05-07T03:21:25+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/okdp1ge/", "content": "But did you fire?" }, { "id": "t1_okdpyx1", "author": "/u/Hairless_Gash", "updated": "2026-05-07T03:27:30+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/okdpyx1/", "content": "Hmm. I think 1m meant more , it's harder hard to get there. I got to 2 like a year ago and now I'm already at 2.6 so 2 to 3 seems uneventful. I used to check balances everyday on the race to 1, now it's less and less and, I pay a lot less attention." }, { "id": "t1_okdwf32", "author": "/u/Original_Training786", "updated": "2026-05-07T04:11:01+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/okdwf32/", "content": "are you still invested?" }, { "id": "t1_oke6glb", "author": "/u/Available-Ad-5670", "updated": "2026-05-07T05:26:19+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/oke6glb/", "content": "of course, you can't fire without being invested" }, { "id": "t1_okij4bn", "author": "/u/Original_Training786", "updated": "2026-05-07T20:20:54+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/okij4bn/", "content": "I mean, are you planning to go to defensive like investing into index funds, SPY." }, { "id": "t1_oke1y3h", "author": "/u/Flat-Product-119", "updated": "2026-05-07T04:51:14+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/oke1y3h/", "content": "When I saw 1 M, I thought at first someone was shit posting as a 1 year old baby boy already at $2m invested" }, { "id": "t1_okeztxn", "author": "/u/Mission_Rip1857", "updated": "2026-05-07T09:42:47+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/okeztxn/", "content": "Congratulations. How old are you , and how do you suggest to scale ?" }, { "id": "t1_okf97bl", "author": "/u/AtmosphereJealous667", "updated": "2026-05-07T10:55:16+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/okf97bl/", "content": "It’s strange to me and feels fake at times like numbers on a screen. Never seen it in reality only numbers on a screens moving to different accounts." }, { "id": "t1_okfgjn2", "author": "/u/Available-Ad-5670", "updated": "2026-05-07T11:43:46+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/okfgjn2/", "content": "it would be wierd to have 2m in cash in front of you." }, { "id": "t1_okfqlsx", "author": "/u/Initial-Zone-8907", "updated": "2026-05-07T12:42:11+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/okfqlsx/", "content": "congrats, how old are you ? provide some insight into your process and investment journey" }, { "id": "t1_okfzfya", "author": "/u/Zonernovi", "updated": "2026-05-07T13:27:53+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/okfzfya/", "content": "Always build a cushion over your target number. Life is full of potholes." }, { "id": "t1_okgjjaf", "author": "/u/DarkBert900", "updated": "2026-05-07T15:01:46+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/okgjjaf/", "content": "2M made you a "multi-millionaire". That's at least 5 letters more." }, { "id": "t1_okjctog", "author": "/u/drawfour_", "updated": "2026-05-07T22:47:46+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/okjctog/", "content": "And a hyphen!" }, { "id": "t1_okgphvt", "author": "/u/darkforeststrikes", "updated": "2026-05-07T15:28:25+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/okgphvt/", "content": "“2M meant if there was a bad market, than I "probably" will not have to go back to work.”\n But if your $2M NW is mostly invested, it can very easily become $1M in a bad market, no?" }, { "id": "t1_okgyd17", "author": "/u/Available-Ad-5670", "updated": "2026-05-07T16:07:08+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/okgyd17/", "content": "Not all in equities" }, { "id": "t1_okgpr85", "author": "/u/etempleton", "updated": "2026-05-07T15:29:33+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/okgpr85/", "content": "2 million is about what 1 million was in the mid 90s. I think 1 million stopped being as important of a milestone. Growing up six figures salary and millionaire instantly meant rich and they just don’t anymore." }, { "id": "t1_okgt993", "author": "/u/11yardshyoftherecord", "updated": "2026-05-07T15:44:51+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/okgt993/", "content": "2.8M in market, 600K homestead, 400K income producing duplex, 400K beach condo. All paid for. Wife’s 500 acres at 40k/ac. And here I am at work." }, { "id": "t1_oki3ph6", "author": "/u/redditmww", "updated": "2026-05-07T19:10:16+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/oki3ph6/", "content": "Why?" }, { "id": "t1_okip39x", "author": "/u/Soggy-Attempt", "updated": "2026-05-07T20:48:21+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/okip39x/", "content": "Feel like I need to keep stacking to keep up with inflation." }, { "id": "t1_okjl2qi", "author": "/u/Environmental-Low792", "updated": "2026-05-07T23:34:44+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/okjl2qi/", "content": "I guess with a paid off house, and no other debt, I was excited about 1m. My bare minimum (property taxes, insurance, utilities, food) is around $20k/year, so I could get by on 2% if I had to." }, { "id": "t1_okk7gzw", "author": "/u/LeftFaithlessness921", "updated": "2026-05-08T01:56:58+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/okk7gzw/", "content": "Curious at what ages you hit 1 and then 2 mil ?" }, { "id": "t1_oklrb2d", "author": "/u/YogurtclosetAdept202", "updated": "2026-05-08T08:59:51+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/oklrb2d/", "content": "Are you interested in gaming/AI investment?" }, { "id": "t1_okm2ktb", "author": "/u/ConceivedPotAuLait", "updated": "2026-05-08T10:31:55+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/okm2ktb/", "content": "What is your early retirement age?\n My earliest is age 58 on $7K a month after all taxes and medical insurance payments taken care of, no debts and no rent , house fully paid. Though I might extend an extra 2 years coz I enjoy what I do. I’m at a bit of a loss how this compares with the reality out there, my own funds are already in place ." }, { "id": "t1_okmkzu9", "author": "/u/Green_Crab_4264", "updated": "2026-05-08T12:28:45+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/okmkzu9/", "content": "Same here. I remember the dinner I got for my family about 7-8 years ago when I hit 1M, and actually, it didn't change too much for me up until now. Today I sit on a few times that and I really start feeling how I no longer need to work that hard and how my investments are slowly starting to earn more than what I can make working." }, { "id": "t1_okn8sus", "author": "/u/Freedom2334", "updated": "2026-05-08T14:26:13+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/okn8sus/", "content": "Congrats! I hope to hit the milestone in 7 seven years from now." }, { "id": "t1_oknrv3t", "author": "/u/Available-Ad-5670", "updated": "2026-05-08T15:50:25+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/oknrv3t/", "content": "i never thought i would and than it happened. i think its like life, if you don't expect it and it happens, you're much better off" }, { "id": "t1_oknzfck", "author": "/u/Complete-Actuator602", "updated": "2026-05-08T16:23:56+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/oknzfck/", "content": "“The second million buys margin for error” is probably the most accurate description of FIRE psychology I’ve read.$1M sounds impressive socially, but $2M is where the math starts protecting against sequence risk, bad markets, and uncertainty. That shift from “probably fine” to “very likely fine” changes everything mentally." }, { "id": "t1_oko7gis", "author": "/u/NewHope13", "updated": "2026-05-08T16:59:49+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/oko7gis/", "content": "At what age did you hit $1M and $2M? Huge congrats!" }, { "id": "t1_okouof5", "author": "/u/That-SoCal-Guy", "updated": "2026-05-08T18:44:38+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/okouof5/", "content": "Compound earnings, that's a beaut thang. At $1M let's say it takes another 10 years to reach $2M (in your case)... But at $2M it takes 5 years to reach $3M, and at $3M, it takes 2 years to reach $4M. So on and so forth. So the time to reach the next $1M is cut short by great magnitude. As time goes on, it would feel like exponential growth.\n Also when you reach a point where your annual returns (even in a blah year) is better than your salary, that's when it feels VERY DIFFERENT. At $1M, 4% is only $40K -- can't quit my job! But at $3M, 4% is now $120K. Hell yeah, baby.\n That said, try not to be so comfortable. 25% in just a one year is great result (my best year was 47%, some people enduring more risks are seeing 140% in one year... to me, that feels "bubbly" and I wouldn't risk that much money on that), but don't count on that kind of performances year after year, even with the best stocks. Count your blessings and keep your long term goals - have a great strategy to weather the worst of times, that's my motto, so next time when the market is down by 30% for three years straight you wouldn't panic or you wouldn't need to liquidate your Brokerage accounts during a down market or need to tap into your 401K prematurely." }, { "id": "t1_okqp6ge", "author": "/u/Available-Ad-5670", "updated": "2026-05-09T00:37:21+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/okqp6ge/", "content": "I’m using a 6% gross return 3% net from here on out. Hopefully that is a good baseline. With asset mix, I don’t expect historical returns" }, { "id": "t1_okqdfnx", "author": "/u/DimMak1", "updated": "2026-05-08T23:27:09+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/okqdfnx/", "content": "Same here $20M in my brokerage was keeping me up at night wondering if and when I could FIRE, but $21M was the point freedom became visible to me. Still planning on working another 15 years but feel great about how much more money I have now and just wanted to let everyone know about it" }, { "id": "t1_okrxl0y", "author": "/u/golfbumyo", "updated": "2026-05-09T05:44:09+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/okrxl0y/", "content": "Yeup im at about $2.2m\n I dont feel rich tbh\n But now i have this feeling like hey no matter what financially i am all good\n At $1m it did not feel that way at all" }, { "id": "t1_okrzb3c", "author": "/u/Available-Ad-5670", "updated": "2026-05-09T05:58:50+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/okrzb3c/", "content": "what's your fire number? do you have kids and spend? may be different if you have kids versus not" }, { "id": "t1_okvia2v", "author": "/u/golfbumyo", "updated": "2026-05-09T19:38:19+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/okvia2v/", "content": "Bout to have a kid" }, { "id": "t1_okt79ck", "author": "/u/Dry-Music2369", "updated": "2026-05-09T12:18:43+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/okt79ck/", "content": "I told this to a multi-millionaire I was speaking to the other day—that what I REALLY wanted (housing security aside) was $2M. And I wouldn’t change a thing about my standard of living. (I’d join the YMCA or something for a nice pool.)\n It’s the “heir and a spare”. 1M=you barely have a million; better not make any mistakes. 2M=is you definitely have a million there for you." }, { "id": "t1_oktrp79", "author": "/u/Much-Standard-3643", "updated": "2026-05-09T14:17:48+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/oktrp79/", "content": "A little tip, if your single status changes and your partner seems uneasy about prenup frame it this way “ my parents have a will, if I don’t get one with certain guidelines I’m exempt from the will so I have to get one”" }, { "id": "t1_oku4v5x", "author": "/u/Environmental-Ad2094", "updated": "2026-05-09T15:25:58+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/oku4v5x/", "content": "Is it accumulative? If yes then you will need the to move to distributed. So you will need to pay tax? I don’t know how it’s handled in USA. I would need to pay 19% in Poland" }, { "id": "t1_okvhw5i", "author": "/u/BeatDense9049", "updated": "2026-05-09T19:36:11+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/okvhw5i/", "content": "LOL!!!!!😂 2million today is literally the EXACT same as 1million 10 years ago. Maybe even less actually." }, { "id": "t1_okx1ala", "author": "/u/Available-Ad-5670", "updated": "2026-05-10T01:01:06+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/okx1ala/", "content": "bro your math isn't mathin. that's not true, inflation didn't go up 100% in 10 years" }, { "id": "t1_okx1mz6", "author": "/u/BeatDense9049", "updated": "2026-05-10T01:03:15+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/okx1mz6/", "content": "Every single thing I buy is up 100% 🤔 maybe you are obsessed with that gov CPI print? What is it now 1% LOL?!" }, { "id": "t1_okx1zus", "author": "/u/Available-Ad-5670", "updated": "2026-05-10T01:05:29+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/okx1zus/", "content": "maybe in your head, but the data sayd 2m would have been worth 1.48m 10 years ago" }, { "id": "t1_okx2xqs", "author": "/u/BeatDense9049", "updated": "2026-05-10T01:11:25+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/okx2xqs/", "content": "LOOK MY DATA LOL…… 😂 it’s mainly because oil price has been cheap now what? I can’t name a single thing that isn’t up 100%. Have you been out of your home lately by chance?" }, { "id": "t1_okx90k5", "author": "/u/Available-Ad-5670", "updated": "2026-05-10T01:49:56+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/okx90k5/", "content": "uninformed opinion. there is actual data of what is real, and there is what you feel. no everything is not up 100% in the last 10 years. you just FEEL that way.\n Here is what the Bureau of labor statistics says:\n The primary CPI (CPI-U) is designed to measure price changes faced by urban consumers, who represent 93% of the U.S. population . It’s an average, though, and doesn’t reflect any particular consumer’s experience." }, { "id": "t1_okx9wz3", "author": "/u/BeatDense9049", "updated": "2026-05-10T01:55:39+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/okx9wz3/", "content": "I’d venture to say your 2 million is about the same as 1 million 10 years ago unless you have some unique expenses like you live at home with mommy….. that’s the point your situation has literally not changed." }, { "id": "t1_okxukrv", "author": "/u/Available-Ad-5670", "updated": "2026-05-10T04:14:51+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/okxukrv/", "content": "im older than that i lived alone 10 years ago, my rent was 2700 10 years ago, and its 3000 now. the actual facts are you have to go back 25-27 years for 2m to equal 1m\n do you have any idea how much doubling costs in 10 years if that actually was true would have killed the economy? That would have meant an average yearly inflation rate of 7.2% the last 10 years running" }, { "id": "t1_okzqvwa", "author": "/u/BeatDense9049", "updated": "2026-05-10T13:25:59+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/okzqvwa/", "content": "Every single thing is up 100% except maybe rent and clothing. STONK market? Up 400%, home price 100%, bills 100%……." }, { "id": "t1_okzrzlm", "author": "/u/Available-Ad-5670", "updated": "2026-05-10T13:32:14+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/okzrzlm/", "content": "stock market is not inflation.\n why not stop at 100%, everythings up 1000%!!!" }, { "id": "t1_okvlo0u", "author": "/u/qofmiwok", "updated": "2026-05-09T19:56:58+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/okvlo0u/", "content": "I remember the first time I hit $1m on paper, company stock. Then days before I would have been able to cash out the dot com crash started. So I left and started my own business and far surpassed that. At the time I thought $1-$2m that was my FIRE number but it sure is nice to have much more than that." }, { "id": "t1_okvpq2q", "author": "/u/DKtwilight", "updated": "2026-05-09T20:19:21+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/okvpq2q/", "content": "I’m with you. 1M felt nice but yeah needs to be 2 to withstand the storms of the market. So now 2 is my min and 5 my goal. Anything above that just a bonus. Although 1M is alot more abroad than 1M in the US" }, { "id": "t1_oky4826", "author": "/u/Sunshine_Thing9893", "updated": "2026-05-10T05:28:39+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/oky4826/", "content": "Surprised by how selfish many of these replies are. You can’t take the money with you when you die. It makes sense to share it with your family if you decide to have one." }, { "id": "t1_okyqsso", "author": "/u/splashaddikt", "updated": "2026-05-10T08:53:16+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/okyqsso/", "content": "Dad is that you? Or is it mom?" }, { "id": "t1_olderk8", "author": "/u/Ancient_Worker_7", "updated": "2026-05-12T13:52:30+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/olderk8/", "content": "Well just hit 1m, its not nothing, but feels like a good base." }, { "id": "t1_olmkb5i", "author": "/u/jhonkas", "updated": "2026-05-13T19:31:14+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/olmkb5i/", "content": "wait till you get to 3" }, { "id": "t1_oloovba", "author": "/u/Available-Ad-5670", "updated": "2026-05-14T02:11:01+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/oloovba/", "content": "can't wait" }, { "id": "t1_okasi19", "author": "/u/InvestigatorPlus3229", "updated": "2026-05-06T18:24:52+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/okasi19/", "content": "cause 2M was 1M not long ago, thanks to inflation" }, { "id": "t1_okbk7d8", "author": "/u/Nickel4me", "updated": "2026-05-06T20:27:01+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/okbk7d8/", "content": "Wait, are most of you talking about NW? Or just retirement funds? We’re in our early/mid 40s at around $2.2M NW, and feel nothing. lol. House will be paid off in 6yrs. That’s what makes we happy.\n The NW number that starts to get interesting is $6M because most likely $5M of that would be strictly investments…with the potential of growing close to 1/2 mil every year thereafter." }, { "id": "t1_okcx6ea", "author": "/u/Available-Ad-5670", "updated": "2026-05-07T00:39:03+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/okcx6ea/", "content": "NW. i guess it depends on household size and your fire goal. if you have 4 people to support, fire goal of 6m is pretty close to a single at 2.5m so that makes sense. that's probably more chubby fire territory" }, { "id": "t1_okbl6sv", "author": "/u/markrulesallnow", "updated": "2026-05-06T20:31:30+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/okbl6sv/", "content": "If you don’t mind me asking, how old are you?" }, { "id": "t1_okc3haw", "author": "/u/PHL1365", "updated": "2026-05-06T21:57:08+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/okc3haw/", "content": "Funny, I'm knocking on the door of 2M right now in my IRA/401k. I actually passed that number a while ago if I count cash accounts and home equity, but it does kind of give a weird sense of "mission accomplished". Plan to retire in ~18 months and I've got some serious "short-timer syndrome" at work.\n 1M kind of happened while I wasn't looking so it was kind of anticlimactic. And then it dropped below that number when 2022 happened. Crazy to think that my portfolio has more than doubled from the 2022 low point.\n At this point, a lot of my thinking goes towards how much I want to live it up (I plan to expatFIRE) vs leaving an even larger inheritance to my kids." }, { "id": "t1_okctgto", "author": "/u/Ok-Nefariousness-927", "updated": "2026-05-07T00:18:06+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/okctgto/", "content": "I'm feeling this post right now.\n I just crossed the 1M mark and it doesn't feel any different. I've been thinking about the next million and what that security world feel like.\n Glad it's making a difference to you." }, { "id": "t1_okd04aq", "author": "/u/Available-Ad-5670", "updated": "2026-05-07T00:55:38+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/okd04aq/", "content": "it may somewhat depend on your hh side and expenses. being single, 2m gives roughly 90k (if ss included in calcs), and 2.5m giving 110k in spend per year, which is plenty for a single person or at least for me. the numbers may be alittle different if its a hh of 4 for example" }, { "id": "t1_oka4mm1", "author": "/u/nadhari12", "updated": "2026-05-06T16:41:57+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/oka4mm1/", "content": "5M is not doing it for me, now I want 10M." }, { "id": "t1_okasjlw", "author": "/u/PaddyLankan", "updated": "2026-05-06T18:25:03+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/okasjlw/", "content": "I need fire. How do I obtain?" }, { "id": "t1_okamy1f", "author": "/u/Maficinc", "updated": "2026-05-06T18:00:27+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/okamy1f/", "content": "Is this number unrealized gains or free and clear net worth with taxes paid?" }, { "id": "t1_okiuphc", "author": "/u/DoNothingAtWork8346", "updated": "2026-05-07T21:14:47+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/okiuphc/", "content": "My number is 16M. You do you" }, { "id": "t1_okbd9nr", "author": "/u/_AT198", "updated": "2026-05-06T19:56:36+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/okbd9nr/", "content": "5M feels much better, but nothing worse than too much risk with 2M and going back to 1M. Good luck." }, { "id": "t1_ok9v7o3", "author": "/u/Ok_Location7161", "updated": "2026-05-06T15:59:49+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/ok9v7o3/", "content": "Single person no kids? Then who is getting all the money later?" }, { "id": "t1_ok9y03m", "author": "/u/Available-Ad-5670", "updated": "2026-05-06T16:12:16+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/ok9y03m/", "content": "i'm hoping to die with zero haha" }, { "id": "t1_okarxgg", "author": "/u/Pinklady777", "updated": "2026-05-06T18:22:20+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/okarxgg/", "content": "How old are you?" }, { "id": "t1_ok9zg47", "author": "/u/Ok_Location7161", "updated": "2026-05-06T16:18:43+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5g7mj/1_m_didnt_feel_special_but_2m_changed_everything/ok9zg47/", "content": "U may have waaay oversaved.....which is good lol" } ] }, { "source": "r/Fire top month", "id": "t3_1t5tv94", "title": "I tried FIRE then went to CoastFIRE. CoastFIRE surprised me.", "author": "/u/Loose_Principle8193", "updated": "2026-05-06T23:41:49+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5tv94/i_tried_fire_then_went_to_coastfire_coastfire/", "content": "Three years ago I tried my first attempt at FIRE. Age 48 FatFire category, but with two kids in college and 40k a year in insurance medical cost. I spent more money than anticipated but my main reason to stop FIRE was due to me feeling really unfulfilled (to put it simply). I decided to go back to the same industry I had left. This time I came back with a much diminished role as my reason for working was now to have fun doing what I love to do and to work alongside great people. The following will sound like some Buddhist/Jedi philosophical stuff, but once the fear of losing my job or getting a poor performance review went away, I was only left with the pure reasons I joined this industry in the first place. To have fun, to be creative, to work with folks I liked. I've now been back for a year and I'm having the time of my life. On top of it, I've received two of the best performance reviews I've had my entire career and I've turned down a promotion a few times. If anything, I've spent more time trying to get everyone else around me promoted. For me, CoastFIRE removed all the reasons I hated working. The fear, the need to prove myself, the need to play office politics. The fear to disagree with a manager. I didn't realize how much of my own personal fears were contributing to why I didn't like my job or why I performed poorly sometimes. So yeah, I know my story is a cliche for CoastFIRE, and maybe it won't apply to A-types, but I do want to throw it out there that it's a lovely option for those who can FIRE but don't have to. There's no better feeling than the feeling of not giving a crap. Because you end up giving a crap about the important things instead.\n submitted by /u/Loose_Principle8193\n [link] [comments]", "contentHtml": "

Three years ago I tried my first attempt at FIRE. Age 48 FatFire category, but with two kids in college and 40k a year in insurance medical cost. I spent more money than anticipated but my main reason to stop FIRE was due to me feeling really unfulfilled (to put it simply). I decided to go back to the same industry I had left. This time I came back with a much diminished role as my reason for working was now to have fun doing what I love to do and to work alongside great people. The following will sound like some Buddhist/Jedi philosophical stuff, but once the fear of losing my job or getting a poor performance review went away, I was only left with the pure reasons I joined this industry in the first place. To have fun, to be creative, to work with folks I liked. I've now been back for a year and I'm having the time of my life. On top of it, I've received two of the best performance reviews I've had my entire career and I've turned down a promotion a few times. If anything, I've spent more time trying to get everyone else around me promoted. For me, CoastFIRE removed all the reasons I hated working. The fear, the need to prove myself, the need to play office politics. The fear to disagree with a manager. I didn't realize how much of my own personal fears were contributing to why I didn't like my job or why I performed poorly sometimes. So yeah, I know my story is a cliche for CoastFIRE, and maybe it won't apply to A-types, but I do want to throw it out there that it's a lovely option for those who can FIRE but don't have to. There's no better feeling than the feeling of not giving a crap. Because you end up giving a crap about the important things instead.

submitted by /u/Loose_Principle8193
[link] [comments]", "comments": [ { "id": "t1_okcotzf", "author": "/u/Impressive-Push5652", "updated": "2026-05-06T23:51:54+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5tv94/i_tried_fire_then_went_to_coastfire_coastfire/okcotzf/", "content": "man you figured out the secret - when you dont NEED the job anymore suddenly you become amazing at it lol, similar thing happened with me in airline work when i had enough saved up" }, { "id": "t1_okd22wl", "author": "/u/EuphoriaSoul", "updated": "2026-05-07T01:06:42+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5tv94/i_tried_fire_then_went_to_coastfire_coastfire/okd22wl/", "content": "I had a boss who was like that. He had FU money and approved a bunch of stuff for us that the C suite would never say yes to." }, { "id": "t1_okdizy2", "author": "/u/Grim-Sleeper", "updated": "2026-05-07T02:43:38+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5tv94/i_tried_fire_then_went_to_coastfire_coastfire/okdizy2/", "content": "Long before FIREing, my co-workers taught me the most important mantra that I ever learned: "what's the worst thing they can do? fire me? so, ...". This approach only works, if you have a solid backup plan. It's rare that somebody calls your "bluff" and that's when you would have to demonstrate that you weren't bluffing. So, you should be prepared for the possibility.\n But if you make this mantra your genuine philosophy, you would implicitly prioritize having sufficient emergency funds and other alternatives (or later in life, you would have FIREd)." }, { "id": "t1_okecd15", "author": "/u/DrJohnFZoidberg", "updated": "2026-05-07T06:14:29+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5tv94/i_tried_fire_then_went_to_coastfire_coastfire/okecd15/", "content": "eeling really unfulfilled (to put it simply). I decided to go back to the same industry I had left. This time I came back with a much diminished role as my reason for working was now to have fun doing what I love to do and to work alongside great people. The following will sound like some Buddhist/Jedi philosophical stuff, but once the fear of losing my job or getting a poor performance review went away, I was only left with the pure reasons I joined this industry in the first place. To have fun, to be creative, to work with folks I liked. I've now been back for a year and I'm havin\n My boss told a story of he and a coworker, working for a supplier to a separate company, were about to go into an evaluation / meeting where they were going to get (rightly) reamed into. They spent the hours long drive talking it over and commisserating over how bad it was going to be.\n While they were getting out of the car, the colleague concluded: 'Well, they probably won't accost us physically.'" }, { "id": "t1_okgmc0a", "author": "/u/terjon", "updated": "2026-05-07T15:14:21+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5tv94/i_tried_fire_then_went_to_coastfire_coastfire/okgmc0a/", "content": "Exactly, no one here works for Homelander. The worst they can do is fire you. They won't hit you with the eye lasers or anything." }, { "id": "t1_okiutfr", "author": "/u/wormbooker", "updated": "2026-05-07T21:15:17+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5tv94/i_tried_fire_then_went_to_coastfire_coastfire/okiutfr/", "content": "you have nothing to fear when you have nothing to lose..." }, { "id": "t1_okjrx51", "author": "/u/David511us", "updated": "2026-05-08T00:16:35+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5tv94/i_tried_fire_then_went_to_coastfire_coastfire/okjrx51/", "content": "I had a former co-worker many years ago who told me the same thing, when I was worried about an upcoming meeting the the CEO (who did fire me, but that's a story for another time). But he continued "it's not like you are going to get eaten. In the animal world, most animals have to worry about getting killed and eaten--the worst they can do to you is fire you, and you are still alive."" }, { "id": "t1_okcygqm", "author": "/u/liveandletlive23", "updated": "2026-05-07T00:46:19+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5tv94/i_tried_fire_then_went_to_coastfire_coastfire/okcygqm/", "content": "What type of airline work? Flight attendant, pilot, corporate..?" }, { "id": "t1_okeornq", "author": "/u/BorgCollectivist", "updated": "2026-05-07T08:02:34+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5tv94/i_tried_fire_then_went_to_coastfire_coastfire/okeornq/", "content": "A little off topic but similar: my last job before RE I got because i had just received a different job offer by email a few hours before I went to the interview. The offer was for a lower pay, more-stressful and boring job. But hey it was a job! (I was unemployedat the time.) I was set. So I didn't bother showering or shaving. Threw on my suit jacket and didn't wear a tie and for good measure, put on my Doc Marten's and headed out. I may have even showed up a few minutes late, but I'll be damned if I didn't walk in acting like I already owned the place and was the biggest badass in the building. Answered every question with confidence, regardless if I was right and basically impressed the executive, who took me around the place and showed me some interesting organization paraphernalia and introduced me to some people. Game recognize game.\n I did put a lot of effort into the take-home writing assignment though. So less than 24 hours I got a second job offer, and it came with more pay, responsibility and prestige. Oh, and it's what enabled me to FIRE...\n Did that for 13 years and honestly enjoyed it a lot. But, I don't miss working at all. Fuck work." }, { "id": "t1_okeg3ds", "author": "/u/okcrumpet", "updated": "2026-05-07T06:46:19+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5tv94/i_tried_fire_then_went_to_coastfire_coastfire/okeg3ds/", "content": "This is annoyingly true for everything in life: getting dates, learning a skill, making friends. Basically happiness in general" }, { "id": "t1_okcosxm", "author": "/u/silent_enigmar", "updated": "2026-05-06T23:51:45+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5tv94/i_tried_fire_then_went_to_coastfire_coastfire/okcosxm/", "content": "This is one of the most convincing arguments for CoastFIRE I’ve seen" }, { "id": "t1_okd4l35", "author": "/u/CT_7", "updated": "2026-05-07T01:20:59+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5tv94/i_tried_fire_then_went_to_coastfire_coastfire/okd4l35/", "content": "It's like your employer knows you're a great worker doing the right things and dont give a f and now have a hint you are a flight risk so you become more valuable. Kind of frees you to be yourself and be more genuine." }, { "id": "t1_okdarx6", "author": "/u/Loose_Principle8193", "updated": "2026-05-07T01:56:11+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5tv94/i_tried_fire_then_went_to_coastfire_coastfire/okdarx6/", "content": "For real. When they know you're gone if you have two bad days in a row, they tend to make sure you don't have two bad days in a row. 😄" }, { "id": "t1_okdt74i", "author": "/u/MrWhiskers55", "updated": "2026-05-07T03:48:49+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5tv94/i_tried_fire_then_went_to_coastfire_coastfire/okdt74i/", "content": "That’s a big point I like coastfire for. Once you have enough you can then redirect that energy to somewhere else. I’ve tried working 4 day weeks and while that was cool no one was available to hang out on my random day off. I’m back to 5 days and a set schedule which lets me plan things ahead. And my plans are mostly set because my bosses know I can leave at any second. Yet they also see how great I am at work and want more from me (in a good way).\n I would take the max amount of days off you can or even more (unpaid is also an option). And plan things out with friends or family. Make memories. Consider what you truly want from life and start acting on that." }, { "id": "t1_okdqs4l", "author": "/u/SJPCST", "updated": "2026-05-07T03:32:49+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5tv94/i_tried_fire_then_went_to_coastfire_coastfire/okdqs4l/", "content": "And importantly your manager doesn't think you are after their job! That leads to more support and less undermining." }, { "id": "t1_okcu8vg", "author": "/u/gloriousrepublic", "updated": "2026-05-07T00:22:31+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5tv94/i_tried_fire_then_went_to_coastfire_coastfire/okcu8vg/", "content": "Even if you aren't at FIRE or CoastFIRE levels, this is an argument in general for a sabbatical. We jump right into our careers and take it as gospel to derive meaning and purpose in the grind and career advancement. Taking an unpaid sabbatical or mini-retirement is so great at re-calibrating our attitudes and reasons for work." }, { "id": "t1_okd0b0m", "author": "/u/Loose_Principle8193", "updated": "2026-05-07T00:56:40+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5tv94/i_tried_fire_then_went_to_coastfire_coastfire/okd0b0m/", "content": "so true" }, { "id": "t1_okfgp38", "author": "/u/diyandmc240", "updated": "2026-05-07T11:44:43+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5tv94/i_tried_fire_then_went_to_coastfire_coastfire/okfgp38/", "content": "This is something I’d really like to do.\n Unfortunately one of the concerns is that it will be difficult to re-enter the workforce. I work in tech so this is exacerbated, but a year off work and I don’t know what the industry might look like when I get back. It’s already very hard to find a job if you don’t already have one in my industry.\n My wife and I are maybe 15-20% of the way to our FIRE number(30 years old), taking a year off may be more realistic in 10ish years when we are more like half way there." }, { "id": "t1_okcsqcp", "author": "/u/Spartikis", "updated": "2026-05-07T00:13:55+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5tv94/i_tried_fire_then_went_to_coastfire_coastfire/okcsqcp/", "content": "Well written. As someone who has converted to CoastFIRE I can vouch for the change. I also switched jobs and reinvented myself, from day one I didn’t work nights or weekends. I never work more than 40 hours, try to make all client meetings teams calls and decline any long distance travel. I make more money than before, work way less hours, get better performance reviews and am happier with my job. FIRE allowed me to set firm work life boundaries and not be worried about loosing my job." }, { "id": "t1_okdjjx7", "author": "/u/Grim-Sleeper", "updated": "2026-05-07T02:46:55+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5tv94/i_tried_fire_then_went_to_coastfire_coastfire/okdjjx7/", "content": "Setting firm boundaries and learning to say "no" is important. It makes your boss's life easier. Uncertainty is harder to manage. And it often results in you getting treated much better. People subconsciously tend to treat you better if you stand up for yourself.\n I can't count the times when I have seen lay-offs prioritize the hard workers who always agreed to everything. They are easy targets, because everyone knows that they won't fight back. Being professional and polite goes a long way, being overly meek doesn't" }, { "id": "t1_okddd2k", "author": "/u/SandIntelligent247", "updated": "2026-05-07T02:10:46+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5tv94/i_tried_fire_then_went_to_coastfire_coastfire/okddd2k/", "content": "Losing* (third last word)\n I’ve heard similar things about people silent quitting their current job. They just decided not to care and do the bare minimum. For some, it actually worked in their favour, the manager stopped micro managing and just redirected people to the right person on their team. Everyone felt empowered and it worked better than ever.\n Crazy how the mindset can change things." }, { "id": "t1_okd657o", "author": "/u/Cinderhazed15", "updated": "2026-05-07T01:29:52+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5tv94/i_tried_fire_then_went_to_coastfire_coastfire/okd657o/", "content": "This is what people who vie for a universal basic income want… if everyone didn’t have to worry about what they needed to survive/thrive, then people who would things that helped them be productive members of society… and if people didn’t, then they wouldn’t, but the people who actually want to be there doing what they do would be happier, less prone to burnout, and produce higher quality work." }, { "id": "t1_okdowy0", "author": "/u/Loose_Principle8193", "updated": "2026-05-07T03:20:36+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5tv94/i_tried_fire_then_went_to_coastfire_coastfire/okdowy0/", "content": "Well said. I preach this from the highest mountains. This corporate feudalism has got to stop at some point,." }, { "id": "t1_okcqrxv", "author": "/u/Magic2424", "updated": "2026-05-07T00:02:48+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5tv94/i_tried_fire_then_went_to_coastfire_coastfire/okcqrxv/", "content": "If I didn’t have to worry about out being fired and not being able to survive I’d enjoy my job way more" }, { "id": "t1_okctqdd", "author": "/u/Skyzfallin", "updated": "2026-05-07T00:19:36+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5tv94/i_tried_fire_then_went_to_coastfire_coastfire/okctqdd/", "content": "Same. Went back to work after 5 months ‘retirement’. Expenses during retirement are much more than I anticipated. I love to spend. Anyway, I can still probably remain retired if I wanted to. I have zero intention to look for another job if ever I get laid off and so I feel so much more relaxed at work now. Before I was so tense and grouchy because I treat deadlines as life or death and think I’d be homeless if I lose my job. Now no pressure, even after seeing a coworker get laid off. My dedication to deadlines remain the same. It is so clear that my previous uptightness never helped my productivity. Since I still plan to retire for good in about 5 years time, I am kind of treasuring each working day because I know I’d look back and reminisce based on my 5 months retired experience. I am not in competition at work, they can all get promoted for all I care." }, { "id": "t1_okcp3nk", "author": "/u/Reasonable_Box2568", "updated": "2026-05-06T23:53:23+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5tv94/i_tried_fire_then_went_to_coastfire_coastfire/okcp3nk/", "content": "This is where I hope to land after losing my job but being comfortably in Coastfire territory assuming conservative 3.5% real returns over the next couple decades. I need to find something that pays the bills that I can tolerate and maybe even enjoy." }, { "id": "t1_okcuplm", "author": "/u/Technical_Part6263", "updated": "2026-05-07T00:25:09+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5tv94/i_tried_fire_then_went_to_coastfire_coastfire/okcuplm/", "content": "This is where I'm trying to be. I genuinely enjoy work, but I don't want to be beholden to it. If I decide I want to fuck off and take a 4 week vacation, I want to have the freedom to tell them I'm going whether they like it or not, and not be worried about whether I have the job when I get back.\n I would be more diplomatic, but the point stands" }, { "id": "t1_okdg28b", "author": "/u/Araucanas", "updated": "2026-05-07T02:26:21+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5tv94/i_tried_fire_then_went_to_coastfire_coastfire/okdg28b/", "content": "Just did this, the 4 week vacation, and I didn’t want to go back. Got used to zero responsibilities very quickly but back on the horse after two weeks of reality. And I do like my job most of the time!" }, { "id": "t1_okeajq6", "author": "/u/Toren6969", "updated": "2026-05-07T05:59:27+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5tv94/i_tried_fire_then_went_to_coastfire_coastfire/okeajq6/", "content": "Yeah. Imo you need to have at least 3 months to really want to go back to job again. 3-6 Is optimal." }, { "id": "t1_okcw9cn", "author": "/u/FunkyMcSkunky", "updated": "2026-05-07T00:33:58+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5tv94/i_tried_fire_then_went_to_coastfire_coastfire/okcw9cn/", "content": "Good thoughts. I'm jealous, honestly. My relationship to my job and my entire career is hopelessly disordered. There's no version of it that brings any joy. My path seems to be to reach the point where I can completely switch fields as fast as possible and have zero concern what I get paid. I'm probably 10 years or more from that point." }, { "id": "t1_okd7j04", "author": "/u/Loose_Principle8193", "updated": "2026-05-07T01:37:46+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5tv94/i_tried_fire_then_went_to_coastfire_coastfire/okd7j04/", "content": "at least you are aware and trying. That's more than most. Ten years will be a blink." }, { "id": "t1_okcutzm", "author": "/u/blisstaker", "updated": "2026-05-07T00:25:50+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5tv94/i_tried_fire_then_went_to_coastfire_coastfire/okcutzm/", "content": "maybe you can afford some line breaks and invest in paragraphs" }, { "id": "t1_okd0i2w", "author": "/u/Loose_Principle8193", "updated": "2026-05-07T00:57:47+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5tv94/i_tried_fire_then_went_to_coastfire_coastfire/okd0i2w/", "content": "hahaha\n Good point" }, { "id": "t1_okcxtib", "author": "/u/RunsaberSR", "updated": "2026-05-07T00:42:39+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5tv94/i_tried_fire_then_went_to_coastfire_coastfire/okcxtib/", "content": "I tried it and it's not my style but i totally get it.\n I also tried doing "nothing" and that gets old too." }, { "id": "t1_oke3hak", "author": "/u/Docgogoa", "updated": "2026-05-07T05:02:52+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5tv94/i_tried_fire_then_went_to_coastfire_coastfire/oke3hak/", "content": "Simply put,FIRE is more about owning your time and not to work for money." }, { "id": "t1_oke88f9", "author": "/u/Professional_Eye_990", "updated": "2026-05-07T05:40:40+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5tv94/i_tried_fire_then_went_to_coastfire_coastfire/oke88f9/", "content": "This is completely how I see it. It’s about freedom to choose, not about how you spend the time per se, but brings you fully into your agency" }, { "id": "t1_okdchu2", "author": "/u/JayRexx", "updated": "2026-05-07T02:05:55+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5tv94/i_tried_fire_then_went_to_coastfire_coastfire/okdchu2/", "content": "Sounds like “fuck you FIRE” in a good way." }, { "id": "t1_okcyz8d", "author": "/u/krackadile", "updated": "2026-05-07T00:49:14+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5tv94/i_tried_fire_then_went_to_coastfire_coastfire/okcyz8d/", "content": "That's awesome. I feel very much the same. I reached FI about 5 years ago and took about six months off about 2 years ago and i realized I enjoyed working so I went back to work and left one job due to a toxic manager and now I'm having a really good time doing what I want without fear of losing my job or not moving up the ladder and I think I may even do a better job as a result. I just try and enjoy every day and try to get all my coworkers to enjoy their time as well. And I get paid for it. What could be better?" }, { "id": "t1_okd8cmr", "author": "/u/Loose_Principle8193", "updated": "2026-05-07T01:42:25+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5tv94/i_tried_fire_then_went_to_coastfire_coastfire/okd8cmr/", "content": "100% As long as I'm having fun and bringing positivity to the table, why stop? I think that's the off-ramp for folks who have hustled/grinded/worked their way to the top. It's hard to just stop. Spend a few years pulling folks up the ladder beyond you. Be a mentor, make a difference for them then peace out. There's no higher note than that." }, { "id": "t1_okd53gx", "author": "/u/urbanchic713", "updated": "2026-05-07T01:23:57+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5tv94/i_tried_fire_then_went_to_coastfire_coastfire/okd53gx/", "content": "I resonate with this so much. I recently took on an assignment after a semi retirement stint and my attitude is so different than when I was in the grind. I’m no longer afraid of saying the wrong things in meetings in fear of being judged. I do not wish to climb the corporate ladder. I look forward to mentoring others.\n Yes, I could use the money for some unforeseen expenses that recently popped up but I’m not solely dependent on the job for survival. Such a freeing feeling." }, { "id": "t1_okdct5o", "author": "/u/minnesotamouse", "updated": "2026-05-07T02:07:41+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5tv94/i_tried_fire_then_went_to_coastfire_coastfire/okdct5o/", "content": "Can you expound on the $40k annual spend on medical, what does the consist of?" }, { "id": "t1_okde8ar", "author": "/u/Loose_Principle8193", "updated": "2026-05-07T02:15:44+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5tv94/i_tried_fire_then_went_to_coastfire_coastfire/okde8ar/", "content": "family of 4. 1,800 in monthly premiums. Max out of pocket cost was 35k which we usually hit due to chronic medical needs. One of my wife's drugs wasn't covered and had no generic version. That was an additional 1,100 a month. So yeah, it was over 40k." }, { "id": "t1_okdgnda", "author": "/u/Loose_Principle8193", "updated": "2026-05-07T02:29:47+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5tv94/i_tried_fire_then_went_to_coastfire_coastfire/okdgnda/", "content": "and that doesn't cover dental or eye care." }, { "id": "t1_okdju42", "author": "/u/minnesotamouse", "updated": "2026-05-07T02:48:40+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5tv94/i_tried_fire_then_went_to_coastfire_coastfire/okdju42/", "content": "I appreciate it, its my one wild card with regards to retiring 8-10 yrs before medicare. Good input!!" }, { "id": "t1_okdmd2f", "author": "/u/Loose_Principle8193", "updated": "2026-05-07T03:04:12+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5tv94/i_tried_fire_then_went_to_coastfire_coastfire/okdmd2f/", "content": "you can punch in numbers in the health dot gov marketplace and see what it would be. Multiply the monthly premium by 12, then add the max out of pocket cost. That's your max liability that year. It's beyond grotesque how much it cost. We are talking about moving out of the US once we do FIRE for good." }, { "id": "t1_okfqjh0", "author": "/u/poop-dolla", "updated": "2026-05-07T12:41:49+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5tv94/i_tried_fire_then_went_to_coastfire_coastfire/okfqjh0/", "content": "That’s $69k a year in medical expenses if you’re actually hitting your OOP max. That’s insane." }, { "id": "t1_okdmiz7", "author": "/u/Tossaway198832", "updated": "2026-05-07T03:05:14+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5tv94/i_tried_fire_then_went_to_coastfire_coastfire/okdmiz7/", "content": "So wild.\n I’d maybe go back to work for 2 months a year, I could keep myself busy skiing, running, biking, lifting and hanging out with my kids and tinkering with my projects.\n I’d retire tomorrow if I had the means but still got 10 years before I hit my number (currently 40)" }, { "id": "t1_okcp81x", "author": "/u/dusklight_entice", "updated": "2026-05-06T23:54:04+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5tv94/i_tried_fire_then_went_to_coastfire_coastfire/okcp81x/", "content": "seeing exactly what is left for groceries helps prevent overspending during the month" }, { "id": "t1_okd11x6", "author": "/u/botwannabe", "updated": "2026-05-07T01:00:53+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5tv94/i_tried_fire_then_went_to_coastfire_coastfire/okd11x6/", "content": "How does this work when your manager wants you to take on more projects or tries to get you to increase your productivity?" }, { "id": "t1_okd6mqu", "author": "/u/Jwoot1111", "updated": "2026-05-07T01:32:38+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5tv94/i_tried_fire_then_went_to_coastfire_coastfire/okd6mqu/", "content": "You just say no. There is nothing to lose if you don’t care whether you keep the job or not.\n Obviously at the same time be a decent employee that they don’t want to lose." }, { "id": "t1_okdaaoh", "author": "/u/Loose_Principle8193", "updated": "2026-05-07T01:53:28+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5tv94/i_tried_fire_then_went_to_coastfire_coastfire/okdaaoh/", "content": "Not sure what field you're in, but one way around this is to not get the point of your manager dropping stuff on you. Approach your job as what you can do to make your manager's job easier. Come to them with something you know you can do that will help them out. Odds are, they have their own manager they're trying to please and they don't have any ideas beyond increasing productivity with brute force. This doesn't work on bad insecure managers though, or companies that are so process driven, anything outside of the handbook is frowned upon. :/" }, { "id": "t1_okdcbz1", "author": "/u/botwannabe", "updated": "2026-05-07T02:04:59+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5tv94/i_tried_fire_then_went_to_coastfire_coastfire/okdcbz1/", "content": "Wouldn't "come to them with something you know you can do to help them out" make you the most dependable person for a boss to turn to when an important project needs to get done? Because that’s my dilemma" }, { "id": "t1_okdr1xz", "author": "/u/Loose_Principle8193", "updated": "2026-05-07T03:34:37+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5tv94/i_tried_fire_then_went_to_coastfire_coastfire/okdr1xz/", "content": "if that's the case and you are already their go to person, it means they have trust in your judgment. So if you don't have enough cycles in the day and they can't supply you with more resources to get it done, then you can say so. I've always admired the moments my reports told me my expectations were too much and it made me trust them even more because it means they aren't just "yes men"." }, { "id": "t1_okd9tul", "author": "/u/toofshucker", "updated": "2026-05-07T01:50:49+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5tv94/i_tried_fire_then_went_to_coastfire_coastfire/okd9tul/", "content": "This is why most FIRE people hit FI and then delay the RE part." }, { "id": "t1_okda5xt", "author": "", "updated": "2026-05-07T01:52:43+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5tv94/i_tried_fire_then_went_to_coastfire_coastfire/okda5xt/", "content": "[deleted]" }, { "id": "t1_okdnm6j", "author": "/u/Loose_Principle8193", "updated": "2026-05-07T03:12:13+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5tv94/i_tried_fire_then_went_to_coastfire_coastfire/okdnm6j/", "content": "I feel this in my bones." }, { "id": "t1_okdkj2w", "author": "/u/QuickAltTab", "updated": "2026-05-07T02:52:48+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5tv94/i_tried_fire_then_went_to_coastfire_coastfire/okdkj2w/", "content": "40k a year for health insurance is just so nauseating" }, { "id": "t1_okdlloy", "author": "/u/Loose_Principle8193", "updated": "2026-05-07T02:59:25+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5tv94/i_tried_fire_then_went_to_coastfire_coastfire/okdlloy/", "content": "Yeah, it actually went up this year. If I were in the same scenario this year, it would be 50k. I swear we live in a feudal system and most don't realize it." }, { "id": "t1_okdky8i", "author": "/u/PrimalPhD", "updated": "2026-05-07T02:55:22+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5tv94/i_tried_fire_then_went_to_coastfire_coastfire/okdky8i/", "content": "Same, I’m over the multi-millionaire mark and care a lot less about being overly filtered as work. Enjoy it a lot more as well" }, { "id": "t1_okdqvcm", "author": "/u/Alpine_Hamster", "updated": "2026-05-07T03:33:25+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5tv94/i_tried_fire_then_went_to_coastfire_coastfire/okdqvcm/", "content": "Great to hear that you are more fulfilled now working again.\n But are you presently pursuing CoastFIRE, or are you already FI? When you say you attempted FIRE, actually FatFIRE, it sounds like you may have been successful (e. g. 4% withdrawal rate) yet spending more than expected (e. g. maybe you were originally targeting 3.5%)." }, { "id": "t1_okdu6nw", "author": "/u/Loose_Principle8193", "updated": "2026-05-07T03:55:31+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5tv94/i_tried_fire_then_went_to_coastfire_coastfire/okdu6nw/", "content": "Maybe I'm getting my terms mixed up? I can currently retire with a passive income of ~240k @ 4% rule. Not including rental income of ~25k a year. I'm currently working again mostly due to wanting to go back and enjoy the fun of what I did. I was lucky enough to get into a field that was my hobby. So even when not working, I was doing the same stuff as a hobby. The financial side was definitely a small part of returning, but only at a gut level. I was caught off guard with how expensive life was when you don't work. I think it's common for folks to start panicking a little when they see their nest egg start dropping with no more future infusions of cash on the horizon. That happened to me a little, but it also coincided with a year where insurance premiums were going up, some hefty home repairs came up, inflation was insane, there was fear of a recession and my kids started college, one getting into a school that cost more than her 529 covered. So yeah, now I'm typing this out, I was probably lying to myself to say it was not financially motivated. heh" }, { "id": "t1_okedrkz", "author": "/u/Plus_Extension3100", "updated": "2026-05-07T06:26:25+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5tv94/i_tried_fire_then_went_to_coastfire_coastfire/okedrkz/", "content": "You achieved psychological safety and therefore were able to focus on the work task rather than the survival task. Simon Sinek speaks to this phenomenon in his book leaders eat last." }, { "id": "t1_okqmz88", "author": "/u/That-SoCal-Guy", "updated": "2026-05-09T00:23:41+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5tv94/i_tried_fire_then_went_to_coastfire_coastfire/okqmz88/", "content": "I coasted and still hated it, because I really wanted to be creative, not managing other people's projects. It really depends on what you do with your life -- money isn't the only objective. For me, I wasn't fulfilled creatively. Also, performance reviews? Fuck that, I don't need someone else to tell me how good I am with my job. A big reason why I wanted to fire early wasn't just the money, but fulfillment.\n So good for you for finding some purpose and fulfillment without giving up the income. For me, it's no brainer that I do not want to work in IT anymore." }, { "id": "t1_okd24so", "author": "/u/Jwoot1111", "updated": "2026-05-07T01:07:00+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5tv94/i_tried_fire_then_went_to_coastfire_coastfire/okd24so/", "content": "Same feeling. As I hit and surpassed my original FI number, I relaxed and stopped caring how work went. I do a good job, better than most, but if they don’t need or want me I will go on my way with a smile. It’s a great feeling.\n What’s interesting is the more I relaxed the more my wealth has compounded. I don’t just do vtsax and chill, I’m quite active in physical things and RE and it just keeps getting better." }, { "id": "t1_okdifo9", "author": "/u/buttershiro", "updated": "2026-05-07T02:40:19+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5tv94/i_tried_fire_then_went_to_coastfire_coastfire/okdifo9/", "content": "man this lowkey sounds like the dream fr 😭 having enough security to stop treating every meeting or review like life or death probably changes everything abt work. i had a phase too where i realized the less i chased validation, the better i actually performed and the less drained i felt after work. kinda wild how not needing the job anymore makes u enjoy the actual craft again instead of the politics and ego games. also if u like tracking the coastfire side of things without obsessing over it, fina money could be worth peeking at someday, but sounds like u already unlocked the real win tbh" }, { "id": "t1_oke2wmw", "author": "/u/Chet100", "updated": "2026-05-07T04:58:29+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5tv94/i_tried_fire_then_went_to_coastfire_coastfire/oke2wmw/", "content": "I stopped giving a shit about my job and ratings when my family went through a major health crisis. I even reported my manager to HR lol.... My point is your entire perspective about job , cars , money etc etc changes when your health is seriousy impacted...I personally lost fear of death a long time ago in my 30s after seeing so muchsuffering in hospitals...so losing a job is pretty meaningless for me...." }, { "id": "t1_oke8i94", "author": "/u/Professional_Eye_990", "updated": "2026-05-07T05:42:54+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5tv94/i_tried_fire_then_went_to_coastfire_coastfire/oke8i94/", "content": "This resonates completely. I fully relate and it quickly orients you toward what matters, that perspective sticks" }, { "id": "t1_okegrcw", "author": "/u/gokuenjoyer69", "updated": "2026-05-07T06:51:53+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5tv94/i_tried_fire_then_went_to_coastfire_coastfire/okegrcw/", "content": "Ok cool, id still rather not work and travel the world 🤷🏽‍♂️" }, { "id": "t1_okfn78l", "author": "/u/poop-dolla", "updated": "2026-05-07T12:23:21+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5tv94/i_tried_fire_then_went_to_coastfire_coastfire/okfn78l/", "content": "That’s not coastFIRE. CoastFIRE means you still need to keep working to cover your expenses. Since a coastFIRE person would still need to keep their job until they reach their FIRE date, they wouldn’t have quite the same free feeling you’re describing.\n What you’re doing would be something more like recreational employment. You don’t need to work; you’re doing it purely for fun. That’s completely different than coastFIRE." }, { "id": "t1_okh4xze", "author": "/u/Loose_Principle8193", "updated": "2026-05-07T16:36:18+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5tv94/i_tried_fire_then_went_to_coastfire_coastfire/okh4xze/", "content": "I considered it COAST fire because I'm no longer touching my retirement funds. but thanks for the clarification." }, { "id": "t1_okg7iqj", "author": "/u/shoppingfortruth", "updated": "2026-05-07T14:06:58+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5tv94/i_tried_fire_then_went_to_coastfire_coastfire/okg7iqj/", "content": "I don’t consider ‘Retirement’ the point where you stop working, I consider it the point where you do what do want entirely on your terms. This disconnects you from the issues you stated." }, { "id": "t1_okg97sz", "author": "/u/Lostinsuburbs", "updated": "2026-05-07T14:14:51+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5tv94/i_tried_fire_then_went_to_coastfire_coastfire/okg97sz/", "content": "I just want to say that I love this post! Wishing you many years of doing what you love. Who says we can’t have our cake and eat it too!" }, { "id": "t1_okgn153", "author": "/u/R0GERTHEALIEN", "updated": "2026-05-07T15:17:29+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5tv94/i_tried_fire_then_went_to_coastfire_coastfire/okgn153/", "content": "What kind of job do you people have that you pick unnecessary work over your own personal life!?!" }, { "id": "t1_okh4j34", "author": "/u/Loose_Principle8193", "updated": "2026-05-07T16:34:26+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5tv94/i_tried_fire_then_went_to_coastfire_coastfire/okh4j34/", "content": "I get to make really fun cool creative stuff that I'd do even if I weren't getting paid." }, { "id": "t1_okiszoy", "author": "/u/Aggravating-Big3858", "updated": "2026-05-07T21:06:37+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5tv94/i_tried_fire_then_went_to_coastfire_coastfire/okiszoy/", "content": "Great write-up! Happily Coasting at a good job I really enjoy. Working for a former colleague I trust and respect. Definitely traveling much less than I otherwise would. Doing better at closing the laptop and leaving work for the next day. My wife is a few years younger and still kicking butt in Type A mode. I’m gonna let her cook as long as she has the passion, but it’s really entertaining to notice the difference between us now in that regard. I wish my career had always been this enjoyable …" }, { "id": "t1_okjamss", "author": "/u/pizzaslice_amaro", "updated": "2026-05-07T22:35:39+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5tv94/i_tried_fire_then_went_to_coastfire_coastfire/okjamss/", "content": "Right on!" }, { "id": "t1_okzqi0u", "author": "/u/Ok_Profit_4150", "updated": "2026-05-10T13:23:50+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5tv94/i_tried_fire_then_went_to_coastfire_coastfire/okzqi0u/", "content": "Thank you OP for the post. I reached CoastFIRE end of last year and totally understand the feeling. My current job in tech is a bit demanding but I like the challenge. My boss has started telling me to take on larger role, drive more visible programs so he can put me for next level promotion. Our organization is bit aggressive, so I am not sure how to tell him that I don't want to strive for next level promotion." }, { "id": "t1_okcuhp0", "author": "/u/Parking_Act3189", "updated": "2026-05-07T00:23:54+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5tv94/i_tried_fire_then_went_to_coastfire_coastfire/okcuhp0/", "content": "Yeah, I'm much more productive when I don't care and do what I find interesting. I do think I can't ask for a raise because it would mess up the power imbalance, but I don't need one" }, { "id": "t1_okd9z36", "author": "/u/SergeantPoopyWeiner", "updated": "2026-05-07T01:51:37+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5tv94/i_tried_fire_then_went_to_coastfire_coastfire/okd9z36/", "content": "Yeah "fuck you" money changes literally everything." }, { "id": "t1_okexb6b", "author": "/u/ditchdiggergirl", "updated": "2026-05-07T09:20:29+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5tv94/i_tried_fire_then_went_to_coastfire_coastfire/okexb6b/", "content": "I had a C suite level boss at a startup who had already cofounded and sold one company and was worth some 8 figures. He was still hustling and clearly enjoyed it, but was also known for his tendency to shrug and say “I’m just a volunteer here”." }, { "id": "t1_okf6tin", "author": "/u/HenryPlaybook", "updated": "2026-05-07T10:38:19+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5tv94/i_tried_fire_then_went_to_coastfire_coastfire/okf6tin/", "content": "Reading your “fun + people” checklist rings true; once a pay stub stopped being the gatekeeper, everything felt cleaner. What’s been the surprise element now that the fear of reviews is gone?" }, { "id": "t1_okgi874", "author": "/u/Any-Concentrate-1922", "updated": "2026-05-07T14:55:54+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5tv94/i_tried_fire_then_went_to_coastfire_coastfire/okgi874/", "content": "I want this too. I work PT, 25-30 hours a week. It still feels like a grind sometimes, especially this time of year, because I get paid by the hour and need to pay my own healthcare.\n April and into May are hard because I owe income tax (yes, I usually underestimate the estimated payments) property tax, estimated tax, and the usual condo fee and health care premium. And the condo fee just went up. It was well over 10K (the total, not the condo fee alone). I had to pull a few thousand out of my HYSA to cover it all and am now working a few more hours to put it back.\n I can't wait until I have enough where I feel like my work is more optional, but right now I'm trying to behave so they won't end my contract." }, { "id": "t1_okmhg5y", "author": "/u/Manitou001", "updated": "2026-05-08T12:09:00+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5tv94/i_tried_fire_then_went_to_coastfire_coastfire/okmhg5y/", "content": "You go 5 days a week? 8+ hours a day?" }, { "id": "t1_oom3gg4", "author": "/u/Mama_Peaches", "updated": "2026-05-29T17:53:45+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5tv94/i_tried_fire_then_went_to_coastfire_coastfire/oom3gg4/", "content": "I feel like once you stop giving a crap about certain things in life, it really makes life easier to live." }, { "id": "t1_oou51r8", "author": "/u/Disastrous-Link7704", "updated": "2026-05-30T21:53:30+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5tv94/i_tried_fire_then_went_to_coastfire_coastfire/oou51r8/", "content": "Concordo pienamente. Per chi deve scoprire questo mondo consiglio questa piattaforma che offre anche funzioni pro per chi deve fare simulazioni nell'ambito fiscalità italiana https://thecoastfire.com/" }, { "id": "t1_okeedig", "author": "/u/taTomWE", "updated": "2026-05-07T06:31:41+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5tv94/i_tried_fire_then_went_to_coastfire_coastfire/okeedig/", "content": "Universal basic income would create that for everyone" } ] }, { "source": "r/Fire top month", "id": "t3_1t8wz4i", "title": "Is “you’re only young once” a cope? I’m living at home saving nearly 100k a year", "author": "/u/neatneets", "updated": "2026-05-10T04:38:20+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/", "content": "So I’m 29 now and I’ve been chilling while people are scrambling to pay rent, make their mortgage, pay off their car, and pay whatever other bills they are stuck with. I notice this a lot in my workplace, people are super stressed especially the guys that have kids.\n Meanwhile I’ve been stacking cash living at home and I have like nearly 400k saved now with all of it invested. Couple more years I will be at a million and won’t have to worry about a boss.\n Part of me regrets missing out on having a place that is away from my parents, but seeing how much I financially have grown I can’t justify moving. I’m shielded from the financial disaster that is the economy today. And it feels like it’s only getting worse.\n submitted by /u/neatneets\n [link] [comments]", "contentHtml": "

So I’m 29 now and I’ve been chilling while people are scrambling to pay rent, make their mortgage, pay off their car, and pay whatever other bills they are stuck with. I notice this a lot in my workplace, people are super stressed especially the guys that have kids.

Meanwhile I’ve been stacking cash living at home and I have like nearly 400k saved now with all of it invested. Couple more years I will be at a million and won’t have to worry about a boss.

Part of me regrets missing out on having a place that is away from my parents, but seeing how much I financially have grown I can’t justify moving. I’m shielded from the financial disaster that is the economy today. And it feels like it’s only getting worse.

submitted by /u/neatneets
[link] [comments]", "comments": [ { "id": "t1_okxyhhe", "author": "/u/Flashy_Author_9620", "updated": "2026-05-10T04:44:19+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/okxyhhe/", "content": "I mean it’s kind of a fact. Not saying what you are doing is wrong or right but you are certainly trading in one experience for another. If that’s right for you, great. It’s not for everyone." }, { "id": "t1_oky3cun", "author": "/u/darthvuder", "updated": "2026-05-10T05:21:25+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/oky3cun/", "content": "I have many millions now in my 40s. And I would trade it all to have my 20s again. Haha" }, { "id": "t1_oky8hmw", "author": "/u/Exxon_Valdezznuts", "updated": "2026-05-10T06:05:15+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/oky8hmw/", "content": "Yep…100 percent this. Younger people in their 20s don’t realize this but it’s true." }, { "id": "t1_okye58h", "author": "/u/Cagel", "updated": "2026-05-10T06:55:54+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/okye58h/", "content": "Not really, you can still find ways to save and enjoy your 20’s" }, { "id": "t1_okz2uvt", "author": "/u/Jesus__Skywalker", "updated": "2026-05-10T10:43:42+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/okz2uvt/", "content": "Not if you live at home till your 30" }, { "id": "t1_okzfnf8", "author": "/u/Top_Introduction4701", "updated": "2026-05-10T12:18:30+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/okzfnf8/", "content": "I think living at home varies a lot by your parents and what the kid wants to do with their freedom. Also probably house construction." }, { "id": "t1_okzhhpf", "author": "/u/Dutchy8210", "updated": "2026-05-10T12:30:28+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/okzhhpf/", "content": "As someone who lived at home until 30 I would agree. My parents treated me like an adult. I would keep them up to date about whether or not I was coming home at night, but that was just so they didn’t think I was dead. I was still out drinking with friends and doing stupid shit." }, { "id": "t1_okzj73z", "author": "/u/littlebunnydoot", "updated": "2026-05-10T12:41:17+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/okzj73z/", "content": "Yeah im confused. Just because u live at home doesnt mean you have to sit there every night watching jeopardy. If i could have done this i would and give back the trauma of roommates who could be on “worst roommate ever”" }, { "id": "t1_ol02xyb", "author": "/u/daveindo", "updated": "2026-05-10T14:29:45+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/ol02xyb/", "content": "Jeopardy out here catching strays…" }, { "id": "t1_ol0qlwc", "author": "/u/Drawer-Vegetable", "updated": "2026-05-10T16:26:27+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/ol0qlwc/", "content": "Poor Alex Trebek 😞" }, { "id": "t1_okzxovc", "author": "/u/taxonomist_of_scat", "updated": "2026-05-10T14:02:53+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/okzxovc/", "content": "No I doesn’t; but it’s, for better or worse, an experience of life most of us who have been through it (and not saved, worried about retirement) who would not trade for the comfort of $ into our fourties’ or later. It’s just a different experience, but if I’d have not left home at 17–struggled through my 20’s (and 30’s) I’d of missed all the meat of my youthful life. The time when you don’t need to be worried too much about the future, certainly not focused on retirement. Comfortable now, but if me and my (now) wife don’t look back on living in a van/working season jobs in Alaska, blowing all our of savings in our 20s traveling through Asia, Latin America, etc…I’d just have comfort waiting. Comfort fucking kills. It’s a different struggle never leaving home; going from your parents house to your “retirement” house. You’ll deal with the converse 20 years from now in content or regret. Somewhere in between, is this marrow called life, and fuck…a lot of yall need to remember what that is. Grip it. The happiest of my days were in youth, poor…but “free” and dumb." }, { "id": "t1_ol043ss", "author": "/u/ArkComet", "updated": "2026-05-10T14:35:33+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/ol043ss/", "content": "I’m 23 now, and I could have lived at home and saved an extra $1600 a month, but I whole heartedly agree I would have missed out on so many experiences even just in the two years i’ve been out of college.\n Living in major city vs the tiny one i’m from just isn’t the same experience. Being able to have a date over, living with my close friend, inviting friends to crash for the weekend, taking random day trips, all things I know no amount of money will buy when I’m older and more settled.\n I’ve followed the flowchart and built up an emergency fund, maxing out my roth and 401k, and yeah I could save more to retire earlier, but ultimately this is all in an effort to try to enjoy life, and i enjoy my life right now." }, { "id": "t1_okzlus8", "author": "/u/iwatchcredits", "updated": "2026-05-10T12:57:13+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/okzlus8/", "content": "Yea i dont know why renting a shit box 1br apartment or having a bunch of roommates is viewed as a better experience than living with your parents lol" }, { "id": "t1_okzoe7e", "author": "/u/Ramen-89", "updated": "2026-05-10T13:11:55+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/okzoe7e/", "content": "Because you have freedom. I didn’t bring girls home to my parents house when I was a teenager living there, it just didn’t seem appropriate.\n Honestly, that was the main reason I moved out now that I think of it." }, { "id": "t1_okzv6st", "author": "/u/Some_Common7003", "updated": "2026-05-10T13:49:43+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/okzv6st/", "content": "I live at home and have much more financial freedom to take longer vacations and save way more money because I dont rent a shit box apartment." }, { "id": "t1_okzxri4", "author": "/u/RIChowderIsBest", "updated": "2026-05-10T14:03:15+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/okzxri4/", "content": "There are a very large percentage of people where their home situation is not healthy or their parents are completely toxic." }, { "id": "t1_okzv8je", "author": "/u/wiseduhm", "updated": "2026-05-10T13:49:58+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/okzv8je/", "content": "I think it really depends. I had a great time living with friends/roommates for the years that I did. They were probably some of the most fun times I've had in my life." }, { "id": "t1_okzu1wi", "author": "/u/Top_Introduction4701", "updated": "2026-05-10T13:43:40+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/okzu1wi/", "content": "I think everyone will face some insecurity in doing whatever they want with family around (dating different people and bringing them over) and out of sight of parents is a benefit. This naturally ebbs with time. But if you have a long term relationship and your house has plenty of space (your bedroom isn’t sharing a wall with parents room lol) and your parents let you do your own thing without too much reproach then it’s not that bad. Many people in their 40’s are looking at ways to get an aging parent to move into detached MIL suites. I left state for work so was never an option for me but I am totally fine if my kids want to live with me as long as they make safe/reasonable decisions. And I raised them (so far) in a way that we discuss the pro/con of their decisions but ultimately it’s their decision to make." }, { "id": "t1_ol08ue5", "author": "/u/alexmc1980", "updated": "2026-05-10T14:59:12+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/ol08ue5/", "content": "Haha yes indeed, because some walls are more soundproof than others" }, { "id": "t1_ol0a2u9", "author": "/u/FitzwilliamTDarcy", "updated": "2026-05-10T15:05:20+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/ol0a2u9/", "content": "Also varies a lot by the home itself. Like walking up creaking stairs each night to your bedroom? Not so fun. Separate entrance to a basement apartment? Possibly fun." }, { "id": "t1_ol12nd6", "author": "", "updated": "2026-05-10T17:23:39+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/ol12nd6/", "content": "[deleted]" }, { "id": "t1_okz5d4z", "author": "/u/NovelNothing5374", "updated": "2026-05-10T11:04:15+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/okz5d4z/", "content": "Yep this is the key, wife and I have accumulated of around 1-1.2M and we are 35! Still lived an awesome life in our 20s. Now we’ve settled down and started a family and are ready for our next chapter with a nice little lump sum to help us enjoy retirement at 55." }, { "id": "t1_ol05xpq", "author": "/u/pointlesslyDisagrees", "updated": "2026-05-10T14:44:47+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/ol05xpq/", "content": "I'd trade it just to be young but I dont care about living it up in my 20s. As a nerdy introvert gamer, FIRE is practically automatic for me. I dont go out clubbing or anything anyway. Not a big fan of crowds and people lol" }, { "id": "t1_ol27dgn", "author": "/u/DarkOmen597", "updated": "2026-05-10T20:37:19+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/ol27dgn/", "content": "Imma push back on this cause I grew up as a needy gamer. Its not about going out clubbing.\n It's about going out. It's about connecting with real people.\n It's about living life.\n I have great memories gaming. But the best memories have been living in reality." }, { "id": "t1_ol64qdo", "author": "/u/pointlesslyDisagrees", "updated": "2026-05-11T12:47:39+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/ol64qdo/", "content": "Oh I still go out and I think it's important to go and do stuff irl. But there's lots you can do outside that doesn't cost a lot. Mostly outdoors/nature activities, for me.\n I think when people typically say "YOLO" and to "enjoy your 20s" they're referring to these popular (and expensive) activities where the crowds are, like clubbing or concerts. I've done both of those a little bit too but it's not something I do every weekend, and those were good memories but not my best memories.\n I still prefer the epic turnaround clutch moments in my collegiate LoL or CS tourney against a much stronger team, or the chaotic mess with friends playing overcooked 2, or even exploring the deep dark depths in subnautica all alone. Just my personal preference but I know it's not as popular to legitimately enjoy gaming more than rl, lol. And obviously that's not "all the time" it depends on the moment. Sometimes rl moments are better and more memorable, sometimes gaming is. I just usually prefer gaming. Hence, FIRE comes easily since gaming is relatively cheap per the amount of hours you get out of it" }, { "id": "t1_ol37bej", "author": "/u/nicolas_06", "updated": "2026-05-10T23:58:51+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/ol37bej/", "content": "And you can completely do that regardless where you live. The one stuff that is harder is live with your significant other. But even that depending is possible." }, { "id": "t1_ol5wwbv", "author": "/u/anagamanagement", "updated": "2026-05-11T12:01:42+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/ol5wwbv/", "content": "Meh. I met my wife gaming and we’ve been together for nearly two decades. We still game together. We have a daughter who likes watching us and is starting to figure out the controller. They don’t have to be separate things." }, { "id": "t1_ol12zs3", "author": "", "updated": "2026-05-10T17:25:18+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/ol12zs3/", "content": "[deleted]" }, { "id": "t1_ol215tg", "author": "/u/hovland55606", "updated": "2026-05-10T20:06:39+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/ol215tg/", "content": "Switch gamer for reading quietly on the couch and we’re the same person." }, { "id": "t1_ol37l72", "author": "/u/i_tyrant", "updated": "2026-05-11T00:00:29+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/ol37l72/", "content": "Same here. I’d want to relive my 20s with my knowledge now , but that’s just wishful thinking - realistically I would’ve spent it doing the exact same stuff all over again because I was never great at being the “fun friend”, taking risks, dating, etc.\n That kind of looking-back regret isn’t useful to me because I know what kind of man I am now. Saving and enjoying my quiet life. Things will change some if I ever find someone who matches my vibe, but I can’t honestly say I’m working toward that so much as chilling and waiting till I don’t have to work anymore to expand my creative pursuits." }, { "id": "t1_ol8w49m", "author": "/u/PurpleWildflower9", "updated": "2026-05-11T20:27:59+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/ol8w49m/", "content": "Living it up in your 20s can cost you. I made some very irresponsible decisions at 25-26 and it caused me to struggle financially for years, it hurt my professional life for some time, and I had to ask for money from abusive relatives who held extreme control over me and it was really difficult for me. I see your point though." }, { "id": "t1_ol85vjc", "author": "/u/Candid-Cattle-7745", "updated": "2026-05-11T18:27:39+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/ol85vjc/", "content": "You'll regret it in your 70s, this is a certainty. Get out there and live" }, { "id": "t1_okzxi9v", "author": "/u/GMVexst", "updated": "2026-05-10T14:01:55+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/okzxi9v/", "content": "Nope they are spending their youth worrying about what boomers have.\n Like do you really want to trade 40 years of your life for a nice million dollar home and a pension? I don't think so" }, { "id": "t1_okymbrz", "author": "", "updated": "2026-05-10T08:10:56+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/okymbrz/", "content": "[deleted]" }, { "id": "t1_okzh8ea", "author": "/u/bankermayfield2026", "updated": "2026-05-10T12:28:49+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/okzh8ea/", "content": "I’m 39. My health is great, but it’s still WAY different than my 20’s.\n All your friends move in their 30’s because they get married and have kids. Even if they don’t move, they are busy with their family. And you probably have kids too. And careers pick up.\n It’s impossible to have the same type of fun I had in my 20’s. When everyone is single without commitments." }, { "id": "t1_okzzjnw", "author": "/u/snokensnot", "updated": "2026-05-10T14:12:26+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/okzzjnw/", "content": "that is not the experience ive had as a 30s woman.\n in the 20s, my friends and I were all scavanging to get secure inbour careers and build momentum. we worked 60 plus hours a week. we had occasional spur of the moment adventures, but mostly we were too busy with work or other obligatikns and too poor to afford much.\n now, my friend group in our 30s without kids are better at boundaries at work and thus have evenings and weekends free. we also have fun money to blow. we are more sure of ourselves and arent trying to impress anyone and instead choose the activities that sound fun, rather than whats impressive to people we dobt even like.\n of course, thats my experience, which doesnt negate yours. im adding mine just to show that there are sorts of experiences and ways life goes.\n eta: i should add the obvious confounding variable- covid, which affected the later years of my 20s" }, { "id": "t1_ol6metl", "author": "/u/weed_cutter", "updated": "2026-05-11T14:17:37+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/ol6metl/", "content": "You assume boundaries with work is something that happens naturally with age.\n Nah actually the norm is the opposite. People get big boy titles like Partner at the firm and a lot of people work in longer hours in their 30s.\n Esp. if they find a partner or kids --- then there's less desire to hang with friends or 'prowl for ass' .... or if they have no kids --- they self identify with their job, hard.\n So ... it's luck of the draw on that one.\n Most people are more 'fuck it' in their 20s when it comes to a good time. These aren't hard and fast rules, it varies individual to individual.\n Maybe it might be gendered to an extent as well, not sure. Dudes generally don't give a fuck about instagram posts or proving fun was had. I mean maybe one unfiltered photo for a vacation posted on Instagram at best.\n To OP --- if they are saving 100k a year that means they are making probably $150k a year before taxes or similar so ... their 'savings' isn't a function as much as sitting at home, as it is having a higher income job. .... Actually, for them ... renting some meager apartment and say spending $16,000 a year on it .... is actually LESS of a financial burden then some guy making $50k a year ....\n In other words .... he loves "number go up" but uh ... guy/ gal should prob move out and start living life. .... How many amazing biographies have you read that said "then Mark Twain in his 20s lived with his parents and saved" -- fuck that lol" }, { "id": "t1_okzywhd", "author": "", "updated": "2026-05-10T14:09:09+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/okzywhd/", "content": "[deleted]" }, { "id": "t1_ol02jqt", "author": "/u/bankermayfield2026", "updated": "2026-05-10T14:27:46+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/ol02jqt/", "content": "I’m guessing you don’t have kids. Which is fine. But most people will by 40.\n No matter how fun you want to be or how much you want to vibe, there’s limits when you need to wake up at 6:30am on Sunday morning and then be present for 12+ hours. Plus, if you’re not wealthy, childcare costs are a constraint.\n And seperately, even if you don’t have kids….new friends just aren’t the same as long time friends. And people a decade younger share very little with you, experience wise." }, { "id": "t1_ol0qtvg", "author": "/u/Drawer-Vegetable", "updated": "2026-05-10T16:27:31+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/ol0qtvg/", "content": "Not if you're 30s and still no commitments haha" }, { "id": "t1_okzd9a5", "author": "", "updated": "2026-05-10T12:02:31+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/okzd9a5/", "content": "[deleted]" }, { "id": "t1_okzgkax", "author": "/u/Rosevkiet", "updated": "2026-05-10T12:24:29+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/okzgkax/", "content": "It happens so gradually then all of a sudden. You notice that three beers doesn’t seem worth the hangover. And that hangover will last two days, not a couple hours. You start noticing the quality of your mattress. You think a little harder about jumping down from something. You know the names of the various ligaments. You get religious about fiber." }, { "id": "t1_okzxeql", "author": "/u/zuckerkorn96", "updated": "2026-05-10T14:01:24+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/okzxeql/", "content": "Turned 30 this year and every one of those things apply to me now lol" }, { "id": "t1_okzyy5s", "author": "/u/Larnek", "updated": "2026-05-10T14:09:23+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/okzyy5s/", "content": "Body betrayal is a real thing! I woke up the other day and a 15yr old MCL sprain decided to scream at me for sleeping. Spent a week in a brace unable to have any lateral force on it without it feeling like it was going hinge open. Did absolutely nothing to cause it and woke up one day and it had just disappeared after killing me the night before. And I have not had a single issue with it since the initial injury healed." }, { "id": "t1_ol035dl", "author": "/u/Electric_Raccoon", "updated": "2026-05-10T14:30:48+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/ol035dl/", "content": "Are you me?" }, { "id": "t1_okzgh4c", "author": "/u/DuffyBravo", "updated": "2026-05-10T12:23:54+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/okzgh4c/", "content": "52 here. BMI is in the low 20s, run 3 times a week (15-20 miles). I feel the same as I did in my 20s/30s health wise. No Meds. Generally curious what you mean by "that's all"?" }, { "id": "t1_okzwfy2", "author": "/u/Malvania", "updated": "2026-05-10T13:56:24+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/okzwfy2/", "content": "In my 20s, I could sleep on a rock and be fine the next day.\n In my 40s, I can throw out my back getting up to pee in the middle of the night. And I was a bit of a mess in my 20s, I'm running an Olympic Triathlon in 3 weeks now." }, { "id": "t1_ol0loq3", "author": "/u/Number127", "updated": "2026-05-10T16:02:13+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/ol0loq3/", "content": "On my 40th birthday, I threw out my back getting into bed ." }, { "id": "t1_okzh1gc", "author": "/u/Dry-Swordfish1710", "updated": "2026-05-10T12:27:34+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/okzh1gc/", "content": "Idk man I’m 32 and still feel like I’m 20 (except I can’t drink much at all lol)" }, { "id": "t1_okzhxqo", "author": "", "updated": "2026-05-10T12:33:19+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/okzhxqo/", "content": "[deleted]" }, { "id": "t1_okzq3w4", "author": "/u/Dry-Swordfish1710", "updated": "2026-05-10T13:21:37+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/okzq3w4/", "content": "How old are you (if you’re willing to share)? I’m super active like you and I’m really hoping I maintain my youth this way!" }, { "id": "t1_okz53ll", "author": "", "updated": "2026-05-10T11:02:07+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/okz53ll/", "content": "[deleted]" }, { "id": "t1_ol0qpo9", "author": "/u/Drawer-Vegetable", "updated": "2026-05-10T16:26:57+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/ol0qpo9/", "content": "30s are wayyyy better than 20s. More money, time, and still got my youth and health." }, { "id": "t1_okzafkk", "author": "/u/uberkalden2", "updated": "2026-05-10T11:42:55+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/okzafkk/", "content": "You'll notice it in your 40s. I felt the same way in my 30s" }, { "id": "t1_ol1014m", "author": "/u/booksycat", "updated": "2026-05-10T17:11:37+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/ol1014m/", "content": "This absolutely - and let's be honest, I was super active in my 20s and already had friends under 30 who felt "old" and friends I did trail running in their 60s and was like dammmnnn.\n I still never beat Stella a 67yo woman at tennis by the time I left college and moved.\n Life is what you make it at all ages." }, { "id": "t1_okzf9by", "author": "", "updated": "2026-05-10T12:15:56+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/okzf9by/", "content": "[deleted]" }, { "id": "t1_okygojg", "author": "/u/nonwittynonwriter", "updated": "2026-05-10T07:18:57+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/okygojg/", "content": "haha, I "enjoyed" my 20s. If I knew what I know now, I could have milions and be happy and healthy.\n But I spent my life and money on parties and weed and many unhealthy habits, because I was stupid.\n Got cancer (I am all good now), now I have to live in rent and probably won't have my place.\n And the worst part? I didn't enjoy it.\n I did it because I found wrong people and wanted to be cool (alson untreated / undiagnosed ADHD could play some part).\n Some days I really hate my old me. I had tried to forgive myself. But the price I paid.. Oh well.\n I am in very late 30s :D, so there is some time to make something bout myself.\n But I have no education, my field is quickly eaten by AI and I feel very, very screwed.\n So, yeah, give me my 20s back, with money I had back then and brain I have today. :D" }, { "id": "t1_okynk6r", "author": "/u/RobertPooWiener", "updated": "2026-05-10T08:22:20+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/okynk6r/", "content": "I'm glad you shared your experience, I can relate to it a lot. After browsing some of these subs, it makes you feel like everyone else is a multi millionaire. Then I end up feeling like I should just give up because there's no way for me to catch up. It makes me feel better that there's at least one other person that doesn't have $1mil by age 30" }, { "id": "t1_ol0kgra", "author": "/u/Time_Many6155", "updated": "2026-05-10T15:56:16+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/ol0kgra/", "content": "Haha.. I had a $140k mortgage at age 36, no other savings. By 42 I paid off the mortgage I.e NW was $zero. By 52 I had $1.3M. Retired.. Now at 64 I'm over $4.5M.\n I did not crack $100k in salary until the last couple of years of work." }, { "id": "t1_okz7uz7", "author": "/u/ShootinAllMyChisolm", "updated": "2026-05-10T11:23:42+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/okz7uz7/", "content": "Very few people even have a couple hundred saved like this guy. You’re in a self-selected group of high savers/investors. The data from several sources reflect this." }, { "id": "t1_okz9fnq", "author": "/u/LabOwn9800", "updated": "2026-05-10T11:35:39+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/okz9fnq/", "content": "I recommend to anyone in their 20s to enjoy their youth not by partying, drinking, or doing drugs but to use your youthful energy to find a passion that doesn’t involve getting drunk or high. It’s fine to do from time to time but don’t structure your weekends around it." }, { "id": "t1_okz57mb", "author": "/u/wolfganggartner5", "updated": "2026-05-10T11:03:01+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/okz57mb/", "content": "Well yeah we all could we would just buy a few hundred bitcoin" }, { "id": "t1_ol068yq", "author": "/u/Own_Worldliness_9297", "updated": "2026-05-10T14:46:20+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/ol068yq/", "content": "But hey plenty of people here say they would NOT trade that for more money down the line because what you lived was priceless! YMMV" }, { "id": "t1_ol3a56o", "author": "/u/Hefty-Cantaloupe4432", "updated": "2026-05-11T00:16:08+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/ol3a56o/", "content": "The ADHD is a huge factor. That’s probably contributing to the impulsivity of the time and the lack of direction on what your true priorities are.\n Hope you got it sorted now because still time on the clock!" }, { "id": "t1_okz8qpj", "author": "/u/LabOwn9800", "updated": "2026-05-10T11:30:19+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/okz8qpj/", "content": "I need to understand what you mean by this?\n When you say you would trade it all to be in your 20s which part exactly do you want? The energy, the lack of responsibilities, etc or are you willing to take the no money, stress of grinding, the uncertainty?\n I’ve worked hard and built my life how I want it. Sure I have regrets and things I would tweak but I don’t think I would go back to being 20. I’m very happy and successful I wouldn’t trade that guarantee for a gamble because if I did it again who knows where I would be. Plus I’m just about 40 and I’m in great health have a beautiful wife and 2 great kids, I’ve worked up through a career I like and became a multimillionaire. I’ve hit the lottery why try to change any of that. I was so stressed in my 20s now I’m not." }, { "id": "t1_okzqz54", "author": "/u/Afraid_Cantaloupe298", "updated": "2026-05-10T13:26:30+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/okzqz54/", "content": "Some people speak without thinking. You asked all the right questions. He’s speaking from the comfort of someone who now has millions in their 40s and so only remembers the 20s from a rose colored nostalgic point of view." }, { "id": "t1_ol0kg65", "author": "/u/Unboxious", "updated": "2026-05-10T15:56:11+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/ol0kg65/", "content": "Maybe they had the Romney-style "We really struggled; we even had to sell some of the stock our parents gave us just to get by without being employed" kind of 20s." }, { "id": "t1_ol17r18", "author": "/u/TristanaRiggle", "updated": "2026-05-10T17:46:03+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/ol17r18/", "content": "As you get older, would you trade money for youth? Absolutely. But realistically the question should be "would you trade the life you have had for different experiences and less/no money now?" Because you're still gonna age, and I'd definitely rather have money when my body starts having problems than not." }, { "id": "t1_ol0774y", "author": "/u/The_Walrus_65", "updated": "2026-05-10T14:51:02+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/ol0774y/", "content": "Yep. I call bullshit" }, { "id": "t1_ol0wo6m", "author": "/u/magus-21", "updated": "2026-05-10T16:55:48+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/ol0wo6m/", "content": "I'm 43 so take with a grain of salt until I get deeper into middle aged, but right now, I'd rather have had both money in my 20s and a comfortable life in my 40s, but I couldn't. I simply didn't have enough money back then. But having money in my 30s and a comfortable life in my 40s was a better deal and I didn't make any of the stupid mistakes I might have made in my 20s with that money." }, { "id": "t1_okycl7f", "author": "/u/Strong_Diver_6896", "updated": "2026-05-10T06:41:58+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/okycl7f/", "content": "Functional takeaway is you wish you spent more money and did more fun shit when you were younger?\n Cuz same" }, { "id": "t1_okyr5y8", "author": "/u/HyperbaricCrustacean", "updated": "2026-05-10T08:56:42+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/okyr5y8/", "content": "What would you have done differently if you got your 20s back?" }, { "id": "t1_okzmadv", "author": "/u/SeaPeanut7_", "updated": "2026-05-10T12:59:46+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/okzmadv/", "content": "And trade it for what in your 20s?\n I’m almost 40, lived with my mom until 29, and have a multi million dollar net worth currently.\n While I did not spend much back then, I can’t say I regret not spending more money on anything. In fact I have some regrets on spending or not investing more because I could be even wealthier now. I already had all I needed back then." }, { "id": "t1_ol030j8", "author": "", "updated": "2026-05-10T14:30:07+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/ol030j8/", "content": "[deleted]" }, { "id": "t1_ol10db7", "author": "/u/moosemanwich", "updated": "2026-05-10T17:13:12+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/ol10db7/", "content": "What about friends, women, experiences and stuff like that. Grinding is silly.\n I’ll retire before 50 but I make a lot of income in my late 30s, due to some friends I made when I was in my 20s" }, { "id": "t1_ol076s6", "author": "/u/SeaPeanut7_", "updated": "2026-05-10T14:50:59+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/ol076s6/", "content": "Absolutely. If I had spent $10k less on that new car I got in 2012, I would have an extra 50k ready to go just from the s&p. I love tech stocks (bought lots of Tesla in 2014, Nvidia in 2016.. etc) so I’d likely have even more. Or if I had put the 30k i had in high yield savings into the market it would be hundreds of thousands now.\n I had my consumer vices but that’s not what made me happy. The only thing worth spending on is self improvement (education, health, skills) and loved ones. But even for loved ones, it doesn’t mean lavish gifts. Just things to enjoy together or to show you care." }, { "id": "t1_ol2thqx", "author": "/u/Common_economics_420", "updated": "2026-05-10T22:36:29+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/ol2thqx/", "content": "Experiences in your 20's are also worth more though.\n I don't understand how "go actually life your life today" is conflated with "buy buy buy." There's a lot of experiences that will just not be the same when you do them at 40 or 50 vs doing them as a 25 year old." }, { "id": "t1_okzowmx", "author": "/u/mrmses", "updated": "2026-05-10T13:14:50+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/okzowmx/", "content": "For real? I would not. But my 20s were pretty good. Did you have bad 20s and you want a redo?" }, { "id": "t1_ol0y9ni", "author": "/u/Dilldo__Baggins", "updated": "2026-05-10T17:03:21+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/ol0y9ni/", "content": "Conversely, if you were in your 40’s with little in savings you’d go back and trade places with OP in a heartbeat.\n Op. Not having generous savings/investments is the most common life stressor. Keep doing what you’re doing but don’t say “no” to any adventures or vacations with friends or even nights out on the town." }, { "id": "t1_ol36s6a", "author": "/u/nicolas_06", "updated": "2026-05-10T23:55:39+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/ol36s6a/", "content": "This is sightly different. Whatever you did in your 20, getting 20 more year of good health is worth it, even at the cost of millions. Time is the resource that is really valuable." }, { "id": "t1_okyp4vh", "author": "/u/Simple-Elephant2902", "updated": "2026-05-10T08:37:33+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/okyp4vh/", "content": "This, plus not everyone has good parents or parents at all. For some of us it would suck so bad it would ruin our mental health because they were abusive, or they wouldn’t let us move back in if we wanted to, or they’re dead. It’s a huge privilege if you love your parents and have the option of living with them as an adult to save money. I think op it while they can if it’s a good option, but I don’t like the judgey undertones in their post." }, { "id": "t1_ol2wai3", "author": "/u/jacob168", "updated": "2026-05-10T22:53:13+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/ol2wai3/", "content": "This is seriously an underrated comment. 💯" }, { "id": "t1_ol3kxm2", "author": "/u/Fun-Rutabaga6357", "updated": "2026-05-11T01:19:41+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/ol3kxm2/", "content": "10000%. I gladly paid rent even tho I’m poorer bc we just don’t have a good relationship, my parents were assholes. Living at home was so bad for my mental health. Then I married and lived with my in laws for a bit to save money. It was so different bc my husband and them have a much better and honest relationship." }, { "id": "t1_ol410tv", "author": "/u/BigWater7673", "updated": "2026-05-11T02:59:49+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/ol410tv/", "content": "The best thing that ever happened to improve my relationship with my father is when I moved out the house. We could not live under the same roof." }, { "id": "t1_ol4fdgv", "author": "/u/cookiecrxmbles", "updated": "2026-05-11T04:44:15+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/ol4fdgv/", "content": "Yep. Exactly me. I'm moving out at 18 and dropping 1k on a rental just to move out a month earlier because my family is absolutely nuts. It hurts seeing the money go down + having to budget for non-rent expenses, but peace > money (that I can afford) over any day." }, { "id": "t1_ol6izxp", "author": "/u/SuspiciousJaguar5630", "updated": "2026-05-11T14:01:21+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/ol6izxp/", "content": "Agreed. There are lots of people who move out because they have to, for one reason or another, not “for fun.”" }, { "id": "t1_ol2kmyt", "author": "/u/AssignmentShot7241", "updated": "2026-05-10T21:45:41+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/ol2kmyt/", "content": "exactly" }, { "id": "t1_olaffyv", "author": "/u/Limp_Initial7566", "updated": "2026-05-12T01:26:17+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/olaffyv/", "content": "Yep OP seems to assume that living with parents is a choice anyone could make if they wanted to. I lost my parents at a young age. Also a lot of people don’t even make $100k/yr to save all that." }, { "id": "t1_olbjjsu", "author": "/u/Thick_Succotash396", "updated": "2026-05-12T05:52:40+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/olbjjsu/", "content": "💯. I HAD to move on my own for Peace/sanity. But as perhaps if I had sane parents, I would’ve spent a couple more years at home." }, { "id": "t1_okzec1h", "author": "/u/basementdiplomat", "updated": "2026-05-10T12:09:48+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/okzec1h/", "content": "I was kicked out of home because my mother chose her husband over me when I disclosed his sexual abuse; I then had to pay rent from when I was 15 years old. It really screwed me over, I had to drop out of school and I stressed about paying bills for years. I could barely afford to eat, let alone save. This was 20 years ago and while I did just buy a house 2 years ago, I'm forever afraid of being homeless again so I rent the other rooms out so I can pay down the mortgage quicker and try to make up for not finishing school and the missed opportunities that came from that. OP is incredibly fortunate. I don't begrudge them, or anyone else who have the means and wherewithal to do what OP is doing" }, { "id": "t1_okzkyr2", "author": "/u/decadentj", "updated": "2026-05-10T12:51:58+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/okzkyr2/", "content": "You think bro calls his parents "roommates" when trying to flirt with girls?" }, { "id": "t1_okze8zw", "author": "/u/Conscious-Rich3823", "updated": "2026-05-10T12:09:14+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/okze8zw/", "content": "It is a fact and how you interpret it is up to you. You're 20s are the only decade where you're likely fully able bodied and able to fuck up your life without any major reprocussions (within reason). After that, you start to get health issues and start to really need to focus on financial health to make sure you can have a comfortable experience. I've met people who, with a partner, were still able to buy two houses and retire comfortably after getting art degrees and teaching as adjuncts. I imagine it's easier if you study computer science or finance (where salaries can range from 200,000 to 1,000,000).\n Like most things in life, a balanced approach that works for the individual is what matters." }, { "id": "t1_ol07o85", "author": "/u/icoulduseanother", "updated": "2026-05-10T14:53:25+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/ol07o85/", "content": "And taking full advantage of your parents. I mean c’mon your parents struggled and stresses when you were small just like you see your co-workers doing. Give back a little. Your message comes across a little like you’re entitled. Just saying." }, { "id": "t1_ol2yztr", "author": "/u/chinmakes5", "updated": "2026-05-10T23:09:19+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/ol2yztr/", "content": "I have to say, I have let my kids move back in here and there. I'm not sure that if my kid was making six figures, they would be living in my house rent free. Fire is a great objective, but going from living at mom and dads to being able to retire, is IDK skipping life." }, { "id": "t1_ol3u0hj", "author": "/u/Queerhere92", "updated": "2026-05-11T02:15:10+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/ol3u0hj/", "content": "I love my mom. But I cannot live with her. I moved out at 17 and I’ll probably never retire with this situation but I wouldn’t even trade it for FIRE." }, { "id": "t1_okxzyvn", "author": "/u/SoftWalruses40", "updated": "2026-05-10T04:54:51+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/okxzyvn/", "content": "It’s worth noting not everyone has the opportunity to just be “chilling” with mom and dad. You’re lucky, and great job taking advantage of such an advantageous situation." }, { "id": "t1_oky4i9i", "author": "/u/cargarfar", "updated": "2026-05-10T05:31:03+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/oky4i9i/", "content": "Also if you live at home with your parents well past when you are financially stable and educated you should be assisting with the mortgage and/or responsibilities. Those who don’t are acting entitled and it shouldn’t be glamorized." }, { "id": "t1_okyvw0t", "author": "/u/OrangeGhoul", "updated": "2026-05-10T09:41:32+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/okyvw0t/", "content": "This! I had a friend who had to routinely go to his mother’s house and mow the lawn otherwise she would try to do it herself. He didn’t mind helping her out; what he did mind was his 35 year old brother who was living in her basement wasn’t doing it or hiring a lawn service for her. Apparently after getting his pilots license and renting airplanes all the time there wasn’t any money left for lawn care." }, { "id": "t1_okzpww9", "author": "/u/PhillyPilot", "updated": "2026-05-10T13:20:32+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/okzpww9/", "content": "Apparently his 35 year old brother needed a swift kick in the ass. I got my pilots license at 28 while living in my own house and paying my own mortgage and mowing my own lawn. It can be done." }, { "id": "t1_okyb6tu", "author": "", "updated": "2026-05-10T06:29:23+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/okyb6tu/", "content": "[deleted]" }, { "id": "t1_okye31a", "author": "/u/OrangeDimatap", "updated": "2026-05-10T06:55:22+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/okye31a/", "content": "Why would giving her the biggest bedroom make anything easier for her?" }, { "id": "t1_okyixws", "author": "", "updated": "2026-05-10T07:39:49+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/okyixws/", "content": "[deleted]" }, { "id": "t1_okyx8ck", "author": "/u/HMonster224", "updated": "2026-05-10T09:53:48+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/okyx8ck/", "content": "This seems unusual that you are preemptively planning for a 24 year old to still be living at home. Is this a typical thing that a lot parents are doing now? I'm an "elder millennial" and I just don't really remember any of my friends living at home after college. Most of us got apartments with roommates at that point. But maybe that's more of a big city thing... I was in college in California and moved to NYC right after graduation to do an internship there.\n On a side note, I strongly agree with your thought process about women needing a financial safety net so they don't end up stuck with a man who mistreats them. That is a really big deal and a lot of young women don't realize how important it is. It's great that you are making it a priority to ensure your daughter is never in that situation." }, { "id": "t1_okz5yyo", "author": "", "updated": "2026-05-10T11:09:04+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/okz5yyo/", "content": "[deleted]" }, { "id": "t1_okzqpo3", "author": "/u/poop-dolla", "updated": "2026-05-10T13:25:00+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/okzqpo3/", "content": "Is she going to go to college in the same city and live at home full time while she’s attending?" }, { "id": "t1_ol0wbja", "author": "/u/MassiveDefinition274", "updated": "2026-05-10T16:54:08+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/ol0wbja/", "content": "Children living at home is a lot more common, and lasting a lot longer, than it used to be. The average age of a first time homebuyer is like 40 now, I think.\n We're at the levels not really seen since the great depression." }, { "id": "t1_ol1eso9", "author": "/u/alpacaMyToothbrush", "updated": "2026-05-10T18:18:11+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/ol1eso9/", "content": "I'm an "elder millennial" and I just don't really remember any of my friends living at home after college.\n You and I must have had different experiences of the great recession, cause I remember a lot of my classmates suddenly unable to find a job, and having to move back in with parents. I never did because I was able to stay employed but it was tough. I definitely put up with a lot of bullshit I would not have otherwise." }, { "id": "t1_ol1i2jb", "author": "/u/HMonster224", "updated": "2026-05-10T18:33:58+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/ol1i2jb/", "content": "I graduated from college in 2004 and was at the same job through that whole period, but our compensation was a model of relatively low base salary + bonus relative to company and team performance. So there were some lean bonus years in there but no layoffs. A number of my friends went to law school or grad school around that 2006-2010-ish timeframe, so probably just coincidentally lucky timing for a lot of my friend group and extended network." }, { "id": "t1_okym11r", "author": "/u/Fun-Palpitation3968", "updated": "2026-05-10T08:08:11+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/okym11r/", "content": "Is this the daughter speaking as one of her parents?!?! 😂 I’m just kidding!" }, { "id": "t1_okzfne1", "author": "/u/PhillyPilot", "updated": "2026-05-10T12:18:30+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/okzfne1/", "content": "You better believe that my kid is helping with the mortgage if they’re 29, still at home and bringing 100k/year" }, { "id": "t1_ol1e8sa", "author": "/u/alpacaMyToothbrush", "updated": "2026-05-10T18:15:35+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/ol1e8sa/", "content": "saving 100k / yr. I hope he's helping out with bills and chores" }, { "id": "t1_ol0fd9f", "author": "", "updated": "2026-05-10T15:31:17+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/ol0fd9f/", "content": "[deleted]" }, { "id": "t1_ol0buvy", "author": "/u/Sarahstarry", "updated": "2026-05-10T15:14:03+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/ol0buvy/", "content": "That is assuming they need it and aren't stacked themselves" }, { "id": "t1_okzhc77", "author": "/u/Dry-Swordfish1710", "updated": "2026-05-10T12:29:30+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/okzhc77/", "content": "They aren’t acting entitled. You can’t assume that. Maybe their parents want to help them out and want their child at home because it’s a healthy relationship!" }, { "id": "t1_oky6irt", "author": "/u/see-em-dubs", "updated": "2026-05-10T05:48:18+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/oky6irt/", "content": "Exactly this, I started helping to support my parents at 28, and didn’t have the option of living rent free at home from 18 onwards. OP doesn’t seem to realise how lucky he is, not everyone has this option." }, { "id": "t1_okya1kb", "author": "/u/Cflow26", "updated": "2026-05-10T06:19:03+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/okya1kb/", "content": "Ya, I had to move out when I was 15 and my mom was going through a mental health crisis which made me feel unsafe. Idk what about that was a cope lol." }, { "id": "t1_ol071yx", "author": "/u/BrightStitchDesigns", "updated": "2026-05-10T14:50:20+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/ol071yx/", "content": "Lmao my mom is living in a trailer in MY yard right now. I wish I were as lucky as OP." }, { "id": "t1_okz98fu", "author": "/u/eatmyasserole", "updated": "2026-05-10T11:34:08+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/okz98fu/", "content": "Theyre chilling while ragging on their parents for scrambling." }, { "id": "t1_ol0ntcq", "author": "/u/JerseyGuy1975", "updated": "2026-05-10T16:12:42+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/ol0ntcq/", "content": "Exactly. Original poster makes it seem like that this is a choice that everyone can make.\n I actually lived with my parents until 28, at which point my parents and especially my dad was like yeah it's time for you to start earning your own keep. Granted I did pay him rent for the last 3 years. Anyways I got my own place and I've been living on my own for 23 years now. Original poster does not have a sense of reality." }, { "id": "t1_okxyyja", "author": "/u/Necessary-Truth-2038", "updated": "2026-05-10T04:47:38+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/okxyyja/", "content": "You have financially grown, yes. Have you grown in other ways?" }, { "id": "t1_oky0xlo", "author": "/u/Ok_Part_7051", "updated": "2026-05-10T05:02:06+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/oky0xlo/", "content": "Very good question. The growth I had between the ages of 22-32 was absolutely life changing and some of the best memories of my life." }, { "id": "t1_okyh9u8", "author": "/u/flabua", "updated": "2026-05-10T07:24:24+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/okyh9u8/", "content": "I gotta say it was the opposite for me. When I first moved out at 23 I parties like crazy, did way to many drugs and became an alcoholic, and was generally a very unhealthy person. When I moved back with my dad to help him out I turned all of that around and am in the best shape in the past 10 years. I have grown a lot in my 20s but it didn't really start until I moved back home." }, { "id": "t1_okyhxz8", "author": "/u/BeyondTheShroud", "updated": "2026-05-10T07:30:29+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/okyhxz8/", "content": "Sounds like you had a lot of growth then…" }, { "id": "t1_ol0102k", "author": "/u/snokensnot", "updated": "2026-05-10T14:19:50+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/ol0102k/", "content": "but had you not moved out, you probably wouldbt have grown the way you did upon moving back home" }, { "id": "t1_ol0da8y", "author": "/u/AZJHawk", "updated": "2026-05-10T15:21:05+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/ol0da8y/", "content": "But would you have had that growth at home if you hadn’t made the mistakes you did when you moved out?" }, { "id": "t1_oky7g0a", "author": "/u/mihhink", "updated": "2026-05-10T05:56:12+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/oky7g0a/", "content": "People who do like OP would most likely be at home 99% of the time even if they moved out on their own. No social life at all, so at this point, it makes sense to keep stacking money while living with your parents..." }, { "id": "t1_okzr8pl", "author": "/u/poop-dolla", "updated": "2026-05-10T13:28:00+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/okzr8pl/", "content": "OP is the type of person that would have greatly benefited from living with some friends as roommates for a while in their early working years instead of staying at home the whole time. I agree if they lived entirely on their own, they’d probably still choose to have no social life, but if they had just taken that small push to live with others, that could have been enough to push them out of their shell and learn how to interact with peers." }, { "id": "t1_okyio0m", "author": "/u/Doyoulikemyjorts", "updated": "2026-05-10T07:37:15+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/okyio0m/", "content": "OP sounds like a child tbh" }, { "id": "t1_okzibbc", "author": "", "updated": "2026-05-10T12:35:43+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/okzibbc/", "content": "[deleted]" }, { "id": "t1_okzutow", "author": "/u/Acceptable-State1037", "updated": "2026-05-10T13:47:45+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/okzutow/", "content": "I feel like there's a bit too much vitriol in this comment... Seems like there might be more going on here than an objective judgement of the situation." }, { "id": "t1_ol0882f", "author": "/u/The_Walrus_65", "updated": "2026-05-10T14:56:08+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/ol0882f/", "content": "I feel there’s a lot of hidden jealousy in many of these comments" }, { "id": "t1_ol5q553", "author": "/u/GetWellDuckDotCom", "updated": "2026-05-11T11:18:00+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/ol5q553/", "content": "Disgust" }, { "id": "t1_oky9jzh", "author": "/u/Ube_Vibes", "updated": "2026-05-10T06:14:42+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/oky9jzh/", "content": "you have financially grown, yes. have you grown in other ways? i lived at home till 28 and saved a ton but i also never learned to cook, manage a budget, or deal with a leaky faucet. movin out at 29 was a crash course in adultin and i wish id done it sooner. money is great but so is knowin you can handle life solo" }, { "id": "t1_okyg2en", "author": "/u/AlchemyFI", "updated": "2026-05-10T07:13:16+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/okyg2en/", "content": "Yeah because you’re not allowed to ever cook or fix anything while living at home. Maybe you were just lazy then.." }, { "id": "t1_okytzop", "author": "", "updated": "2026-05-10T09:23:31+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/okytzop/", "content": "[deleted]" }, { "id": "t1_okzu24y", "author": "/u/Leather_Addition2605", "updated": "2026-05-10T13:43:42+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/okzu24y/", "content": "I had a rule where my daughter didn’t have to help her mother and I clean up if she was practicing her guitar.\n I don’t know if she just really loves playing or really hates cleaning, but the end result was that she can shred." }, { "id": "t1_okyu59p", "author": "/u/samamatara", "updated": "2026-05-10T09:24:58+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/okyu59p/", "content": "nah its not just cookin or fixing shit. if u ever been at it solo, u should know its way more than just that instead of getting fixated on a couple things" }, { "id": "t1_okzf4wo", "author": "/u/Dry_Try_6047", "updated": "2026-05-10T12:15:07+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/okzf4wo/", "content": "Sponging off your parents as a 29 year old man is far from financial growth." }, { "id": "t1_okzpuku", "author": "/u/Lost_Cockroach6702", "updated": "2026-05-10T13:20:10+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/okzpuku/", "content": "A 29 year old living at home his whole life doesn’t even know how to be an adult. That’s why he thinks $1m in retirement is enough to stop working at 30.\n The guy doesn’t know how to set up his internet or how much a cell phone bill costs. He’s probably banking on his parents giving him their house, which is when he’ll learn that property taxes exist." }, { "id": "t1_okzt5np", "author": "/u/Bearsbanker", "updated": "2026-05-10T13:38:47+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/okzt5np/", "content": "...or know how to cook or do your own laundry or pay bills or have a girlfriend or ......" }, { "id": "t1_ol16kns", "author": "/u/lymeeater", "updated": "2026-05-10T17:40:47+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/ol16kns/", "content": "Never understood all the nonsense about 'learning to live on your own'. The modern world is literally easy mode. If you have an above room temperature IQ learning the basic skills required to live independently will be no problem.\n People seem to act like it's some big endeavour to learn how to iron clothes and operate a washing machine 😂" }, { "id": "t1_ol1a9es", "author": "/u/Particular_Maize6849", "updated": "2026-05-10T17:57:21+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/ol1a9es/", "content": "You've obviously never had roommates and realized how terrible many people are at "basic" things." }, { "id": "t1_ol1lo8i", "author": "/u/lymeeater", "updated": "2026-05-10T18:51:29+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/ol1lo8i/", "content": "Obviously? Or maybe my roommates just didn't struggle with simple tasks.\n If you can't learn how to manage your clothes, basic cleaning and maintenance, you're ngmi anyway. You literally have AI now to walk you through it." }, { "id": "t1_ol15gno", "author": "", "updated": "2026-05-10T17:36:04+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/ol15gno/", "content": "[deleted]" }, { "id": "t1_okzhj3u", "author": "/u/AlwaysReading8675309", "updated": "2026-05-10T12:30:43+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/okzhj3u/", "content": "This - you will look back and see you traded financial growth for maturity and individuating.\n You’ll get there but you’ll be late.\n Professionally, you’re probably doing good but there’s something to truly taking ownership of your life that changes your approach.\n You’re playing it safe…if that’s what you want, then, by all means." }, { "id": "t1_ol08vjj", "author": "/u/spaghettivillage", "updated": "2026-05-10T14:59:22+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/ol08vjj/", "content": "You have financially grown, yes.\n but what about second growth?" }, { "id": "t1_ol0jz3l", "author": "/u/-1mei", "updated": "2026-05-10T15:53:54+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/ol0jz3l/", "content": "This was my exact train of thought. I’m 24, live at home with my parents, full-time job, already graduated college. I realized I’m missing out on crucial life experiences at the cost of saving money. My growth as a person felt very stagnant. In a 1.5 months I’ll be leaving my job to go backpacking ✌️" }, { "id": "t1_okxzmvc", "author": "/u/chatfarm", "updated": "2026-05-10T04:52:26+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/okxzmvc/", "content": "Is “you’re only young once” a cope?\n cope for what lol? one is indeed young only once. do with that time what you choose is best." }, { "id": "t1_okyadaz", "author": "/u/-Debugging-Duck-", "updated": "2026-05-10T06:21:56+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/okyadaz/", "content": "OP thinks people being forced to move out of their parents house and having kids is “cope”" }, { "id": "t1_okzit1t", "author": "/u/GetWellDuckDotCom", "updated": "2026-05-10T12:38:51+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/okzit1t/", "content": "Unironically the best parts of my life has been living on my own and having kids 😂😂" }, { "id": "t1_okzs4qe", "author": "/u/poop-dolla", "updated": "2026-05-10T13:33:02+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/okzs4qe/", "content": "I mean that’s kind of the entire point of life? You grow up and learn to be an adult and do adult things. OP is still a kid and doesn’t want to even try being an adult. I feel like it’s kind of a failure of OP’s parents for OP to not want to grow in life." }, { "id": "t1_okztchf", "author": "/u/dgputnam", "updated": "2026-05-10T13:39:50+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/okztchf/", "content": "Definitely. My kids will always have a place at home to come back to if they need it. But at a certain point, baby birds need to fly." }, { "id": "t1_okzsy1b", "author": "/u/GetWellDuckDotCom", "updated": "2026-05-10T13:37:36+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/okzsy1b/", "content": "Im younger then OP lmfao" }, { "id": "t1_okztdcw", "author": "/u/poop-dolla", "updated": "2026-05-10T13:39:58+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/okztdcw/", "content": "I’m pretty sure I was more of an adult than OP when I was 18 in college and having to cover almost all of my living expenses in my own and having to manage all of my daily life stuff on my own." }, { "id": "t1_oky4y8d", "author": "/u/The-Big-Picture-", "updated": "2026-05-10T05:34:48+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/oky4y8d/", "content": "Yeah the "cope" accusation feels like projection lol" }, { "id": "t1_okyd668", "author": "/u/Exclave4Ever", "updated": "2026-05-10T06:47:13+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/okyd668/", "content": "It is 100% projection clearly" }, { "id": "t1_ol03hsj", "author": "", "updated": "2026-05-10T14:32:31+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/ol03hsj/", "content": "[deleted]" }, { "id": "t1_ol05luw", "author": "/u/amtcannon", "updated": "2026-05-10T14:43:08+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/ol05luw/", "content": "I would argue that a decade as an idiot is superior to a decade as a shut in. Especially in your twenties when you can bounce back. Learn about yourself and the world, grow up, live a full life.\n And then the other adulting things, having your own place, finding a life partner – my wife is the love of my life and I couldn’t be happier. Having your own kids is sort of our genetic imperative, I get that some people don’t want them.\n Facing a life of no love, no friends, just mummy and daddy till they die and then you become a hermit in your childhood home. Not for me!" }, { "id": "t1_ol22aeq", "author": "/u/TempDong", "updated": "2026-05-10T20:12:12+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/ol22aeq/", "content": "Cope in this context is saying "you're only young once" is a phrase used by irresponsible people to justify bad decisions. Even in this thread you see it, people admitting they went out partying a ton in their 20s and regret doing that. Not my opinion, just how I think OP is using that term." }, { "id": "t1_ol0kcok", "author": "/u/PrizePreset", "updated": "2026-05-10T15:55:43+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/ol0kcok/", "content": "OP is such a shut in they think maximizing their one and only life on earth is some social media fad. But enjoy having $400k i guess 😂" }, { "id": "t1_ol0wsg2", "author": "/u/hamburgerpi", "updated": "2026-05-10T16:56:22+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/ol0wsg2/", "content": "That is his version of trying to throw shade at people who are doing it differently. He wanted to come here and brag about his financial situation because he has not had any responsibility but work his whole life and the silver spoon gave him a leg up over others his age." }, { "id": "t1_okxyhri", "author": "/u/Available-Ad-5670", "updated": "2026-05-10T04:44:22+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/okxyhri/", "content": "i think having those early years with roomates versus parents aren't that big a deal, but i would say as you go into your 30's, get a place of your own (maybe aim by 33/35). Failure to launch is real. once you get to close to 1m, you're already coast fire most likely, but at that point, living as an adult is really important especially if you want to attract a mate" }, { "id": "t1_okxzs8y", "author": "/u/MiguelCoto7", "updated": "2026-05-10T04:53:31+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/okxzs8y/", "content": "Great advice and my thought exactly. I’d say to OP make sure you have an idea on when you want to leave the nest as you will grow a lot by being away from your parents. You still have a lot of life left in your 30’s." }, { "id": "t1_okyhskp", "author": "/u/Available-Ad-5670", "updated": "2026-05-10T07:29:07+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/okyhskp/", "content": "yeah, a 40 year old that has never lived away from their parents is a huge red flag" }, { "id": "t1_okyiws4", "author": "/u/ptherbst", "updated": "2026-05-10T07:39:32+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/okyiws4/", "content": "Literally wouldn't touch a guy like that" }, { "id": "t1_ol0yfhx", "author": "/u/throwaway-1212025", "updated": "2026-05-10T17:04:08+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/ol0yfhx/", "content": "100%.. 30 is pushing it already IMO. 40 years old and you’ve never lived on your own, or with a partner? Hard pass. It’s great that OP is financially independent and all, but if he hasn’t built the social skill set of living with others, he’s going to have a hard time finding women who have established their own lives and are living independently, who are interested in dating him when there are men out there who are financially stable AND don’t live with their parents 😬\n I lived with my parents for 2-3 years after graduating college. But I paid them a small amount of rent, and the reason I was living there was so I could save money for a car and a place of my own , not so I could just sock away as much money as possible while making snide and judgmental comments about my peers who were struggling with finances 🙄" }, { "id": "t1_ol0z95s", "author": "/u/Available-Ad-5670", "updated": "2026-05-10T17:08:03+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/ol0z95s/", "content": "haha. if you extrapolate it out, would OP rather FIRE a couple years early alone, or FIRE a couple years later with a wife." }, { "id": "t1_ol116dc", "author": "/u/throwaway-1212025", "updated": "2026-05-10T17:16:46+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/ol116dc/", "content": "Exactly. Also, OP might not be considering the benefits of being with a partner - DINK couples are able to save a LOT from what I’ve seen. OP’s parents are subsidizing his life and not having to pay rent is huge, but there’s something to be said for building a life with a partner, taking advantage of having a dual income, and then actually having someone to travel and enjoy life with once you’ve FIREd 🤷🏼‍♀️" }, { "id": "t1_ol1392n", "author": "/u/Available-Ad-5670", "updated": "2026-05-10T17:26:29+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/ol1392n/", "content": "Classic case of op thinking he found the cheat code but not recognizing the downside risks" }, { "id": "t1_ol0bta2", "author": "/u/Equivalent-Room-8428", "updated": "2026-05-10T15:13:50+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/ol0bta2/", "content": "Same flag for a 30 year old! Especially with that kind of money." }, { "id": "t1_okzmvr5", "author": "/u/Common_economics_420", "updated": "2026-05-10T13:03:14+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/okzmvr5/", "content": "Bruh we really going to act like living with your parents at 35 isn't weird as fuck? (I get that this is a cultural thing and that there may also be extenuating circumstances for some. Referring purely to the situation Op finds himself in)\n 29 is bad enough. Giving this dude 6 more years to "work towards" renting an apartment is nuts. He should be able to move out in a couple months max." }, { "id": "t1_okzwice", "author": "/u/zhou111", "updated": "2026-05-10T13:56:45+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/okzwice/", "content": "Not really? There's a difference between living with your parents because you can't support yourself, and living with your parents because you can save on rent and maybe even food. If it works for him he should keep doing it, and not make changes just because." }, { "id": "t1_ol07k1e", "author": "/u/Senior-Deer-3249", "updated": "2026-05-10T14:52:50+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/ol07k1e/", "content": "My siblings live at home in their late 20s and still act like teenagers. Theyve never had to live on their actual wage so they overspend on lifestyle even though they put a lot away. My husband and i both make 6 figures and my sisters monthly skincare and makeup budget is half my rent for a bougie 3 bedroom, 2 bath apartment in a hcol city. She makes 50k a year. My brother is so better, he's constantly being used by his friends to pay when they go out and he makes 40k.\n My sister has told me explicitly she doesn't want to live on her own because she wont be as pretty if she pays for an apartment. Theyre both in for a rude awakening when my parents die and the house gets sold, I wish theyd have some momentum to do better before then." }, { "id": "t1_okzzm7x", "author": "/u/Common_economics_420", "updated": "2026-05-10T14:12:48+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/okzzm7x/", "content": "Honestly the second one is even worse. Dude could live like an actual adult easily if he wanted to.\n People do plenty of shit that "works for them" but is actually super unhealthy and bad for their development. This isn't a "just because" change." }, { "id": "t1_okz9a8t", "author": "/u/Goodoospec", "updated": "2026-05-10T11:34:30+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/okz9a8t/", "content": "Depends on the person. Some personality types need to learn some big lessons before sucessfully living with a romantic partner, that I think in part comes from learning to live with non-romantic partners earlier." }, { "id": "t1_okzsitt", "author": "/u/poop-dolla", "updated": "2026-05-10T13:35:14+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/okzsitt/", "content": "That’s exactly what the comment you replied to said. Live with roommates early and then live with a romantic partner later." }, { "id": "t1_ol0blm6", "author": "/u/Equivalent-Room-8428", "updated": "2026-05-10T15:12:49+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/ol0blm6/", "content": "Aim for 33 to 35? WTAF? They need to get out now. The OP has $400k saved. Time to grow up and live like an adult. They already failed to launch and their parents let it happen. 😐" }, { "id": "t1_ol155bk", "author": "/u/Zenguy2828", "updated": "2026-05-10T17:34:43+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/ol155bk/", "content": "Why? How come he has to spend more on rent and food? Just to be alone in a house? What would that achieve?" }, { "id": "t1_ol4e74s", "author": "/u/Sarahstarry", "updated": "2026-05-11T04:35:04+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/ol4e74s/", "content": "I don't get what people are getting at here either, living on my own changed literally nothing for me, I really think it depends on what kind of housing arrangement they're talking about.\n I'm also really surprised at how often roommates are mentioned like that's not an even sadder state of affairs\n I really don't get what grand life skills I supposedly learned through that, or what difference it'd make for "dating" if I lived in my parents' house." }, { "id": "t1_ol1724g", "author": "", "updated": "2026-05-10T17:42:56+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/ol1724g/", "content": "[deleted]" }, { "id": "t1_okzzjkd", "author": "/u/Maru3792648", "updated": "2026-05-10T14:12:25+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/okzzjkd/", "content": "Most countries in the world go straight from living with parents to getting married. The roommate phase is only a rite of passage in America culture. It's ok to have it or not. But it's not formative on its own" }, { "id": "t1_ol0m6cb", "author": "/u/Specific_Mess_1031", "updated": "2026-05-10T16:04:37+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/ol0m6cb/", "content": "I agree. I had roommates and, other than being able to invest more when I otherwise couldn’t have, I don’t see the point." }, { "id": "t1_okxyb16", "author": "/u/VT_Squire", "updated": "2026-05-10T04:43:07+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/okxyb16/", "content": "I have like nearly 400k saved now with all of it invested. [...] I’m shielded from the financial disaster that is the economy today.\n You might want to sit down for this." }, { "id": "t1_okxzhgd", "author": "/u/abrahamlincoln20", "updated": "2026-05-10T04:51:20+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/okxzhgd/", "content": "They're living at their parents' house. That's pretty shielded. They could weather any stock market crash, even if they lost their job." }, { "id": "t1_oky38de", "author": "/u/bramm90", "updated": "2026-05-10T05:20:23+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/oky38de/", "content": "Depends on how secure their parents are" }, { "id": "t1_okzihcr", "author": "/u/bankermayfield2026", "updated": "2026-05-10T12:36:48+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/okzihcr/", "content": "If parents are supporting him into his 30’s without charging rent I’m going to assume they aren’t financially constrained." }, { "id": "t1_okzrkzb", "author": "/u/NetNo5570", "updated": "2026-05-10T13:29:57+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/okzrkzb/", "content": "To be fair this is also exactly how many financial constrained families live." }, { "id": "t1_ol0l16n", "author": "/u/Swimming_Agent_1063", "updated": "2026-05-10T15:59:02+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/ol0l16n/", "content": "“Supporting” can mean a lot of things. Letting your adult kid live in a spare room in a paid off house is practically free, assuming they have a job." }, { "id": "t1_okynzoz", "author": "/u/Due_Purple_1199", "updated": "2026-05-10T08:26:28+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/okynzoz/", "content": "Well going by that logic they can even FIRE already" }, { "id": "t1_okzhui5", "author": "/u/No_Effect_6428", "updated": "2026-05-10T12:32:45+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/okzhui5/", "content": "Financial planners HATE this one weird trick" }, { "id": "t1_okxz1ka", "author": "/u/orzoftm", "updated": "2026-05-10T04:48:13+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/okxz1ka/", "content": "what do you mean" }, { "id": "t1_okxzl4t", "author": "/u/Fair-Search-2324", "updated": "2026-05-10T04:52:05+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/okxzl4t/", "content": "That being 100% equities is being 100% exposed to the financial risks of today. It’s a quip, don’t take it too seriously: living w parents is the backstop - as you meant." }, { "id": "t1_okxzpfs", "author": "/u/wubscale", "updated": "2026-05-10T04:52:57+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/okxzpfs/", "content": "If ~all of OP's money is invested, they are in fact not insulated from the economy today at all." }, { "id": "t1_oky1hbc", "author": "/u/Feelinglikeatamale", "updated": "2026-05-10T05:06:22+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/oky1hbc/", "content": "I agree to some point. I wouldn’t trade my independence in my 20s for anything. Living with roommates/my best friends were one of the highlights of my life I would never be able to recreate later in life. Though rent was much cheaper I suppose. I was still able to FIRE even though I didn’t lock in until I was 29/30 and I am 37 now." }, { "id": "t1_okylnix", "author": "/u/PureCondition3487", "updated": "2026-05-10T08:04:42+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/okylnix/", "content": "It is definitely not cope. You are trading one experience for another that is the simple reality of it. When the gray hairs start to pop up in a few years you will realize it." }, { "id": "t1_ol0mu91", "author": "/u/Few-Lawyer3707", "updated": "2026-05-10T16:07:53+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/ol0mu91/", "content": "One day OP will be grey haired 45 year old virgin and wake up to see his cum sock and hot pockets and realize the stressed coworkers with kids were the real wealthy ones.\n But at least he achieved a high number in account." }, { "id": "t1_okxzjc4", "author": "/u/cfirejourney", "updated": "2026-05-10T04:51:43+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/okxzjc4/", "content": "it’s a balance.\n i’d never spend all of my 20s and go into my 30s with my parents unless i had an adu on their property and no impact on my life and you can still pay rent somewhere and live a frugal lifestyle while saving for fire. idk who wants to retire into living at home with their parents.\n we’re nearly the same age and i have had very different life experiences that i would not trade a year or two earlier retirement for" }, { "id": "t1_oky3hqe", "author": "/u/Low-Feature-3973", "updated": "2026-05-10T05:22:32+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/oky3hqe/", "content": "At some point you might want a wife/ girlfriend. ... oh wait. Reddit." }, { "id": "t1_ol6rjd5", "author": "/u/ThiccQuadsDutchClogs", "updated": "2026-05-11T14:41:51+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/ol6rjd5/", "content": "Came here to say this. Dude is 29 and living at home. Let me guess, single?" }, { "id": "t1_okyaep0", "author": "/u/After-Equipment-9644", "updated": "2026-05-10T06:22:16+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/okyaep0/", "content": "1) Congrats 2) Remember, you can’t take it with you 3) If I could have $1 million or my kids, I’d choose my kids." }, { "id": "t1_oky6ilf", "author": "/u/ContractEfficient958", "updated": "2026-05-10T05:48:15+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/oky6ilf/", "content": "In our early 20's, my wife told me that we were at the peak of our physical health and we don't have kids or any other major responsibilities, so we should make the most of it and travel the world. We did just that and no amount of money could replace the experiences and memories we've had. Now that we're in our 30's with young kids and a home, we have no regrets and we're perfectly happy with our current investments and savings. A good balance can lead to a fulfilling life." }, { "id": "t1_okxzr9c", "author": "/u/MarchDry4261", "updated": "2026-05-10T04:53:19+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/okxzr9c/", "content": "I lived at home for 2 years after college, then couldn’t do it anymore. Dating sucked. Parents and I didn’t mind each other and I saved up a lot, but wasn’t worth it not having my complete independence.\n I used my savings for a FHA 3.5% down payment for a property and house-hacked. Rents paid most of the mortgage. Fast forward to today, nearly 10 years later and the property appreciated 400k (bought in Southern California), and rents went up >50%, while the mortgage only went up a tiny bit, cash flows several hundred after paying mortgage, utilities etc.\n I saved more moving out and investing in property— and had my independence. Confidence went up and I dated a lot during that time.\n Everybody is different and cultures/families matter for these decisions. I couldn’t do more than 2 years, but maybe living with your parents in your 30’s is right for you. Very common in many South American and Asian cultures" }, { "id": "t1_oky0nvn", "author": "/u/Gold_Willingness_256", "updated": "2026-05-10T05:00:02+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/oky0nvn/", "content": "33 living with my parents. Parents are fucking awesome. People suffer living with their parents. I love it.\n Save so much money." }, { "id": "t1_oky552b", "author": "/u/LisaSu92", "updated": "2026-05-10T05:36:28+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/oky552b/", "content": "Same. Fuck the haters. I’m an rn and I worked night shift so my parents barely see me anyway cause I sleep during the day. Not that they mind. We all get along and my brother and his wife also just moved back in with us.\n 33 and $1.2 million in my brokerage and over 1.5 if you include my Ira and 403b. Suck it.\n And I have a great gf and will likely be buying a house next year at some point." }, { "id": "t1_ol0jldz", "author": "/u/Gold_Willingness_256", "updated": "2026-05-10T15:52:03+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/ol0jldz/", "content": "I actually bought my house back in 2018 but moved back in with my parents during covid and just rent out my house.\n Over a mil in my brokerage as well. I love it. Its a literal cheat code living with the parents." }, { "id": "t1_ol38fcm", "author": "/u/Plus_Independent_680", "updated": "2026-05-11T00:05:37+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/ol38fcm/", "content": "Money aside, getting to spend quality time with your parents as an adult while they're still relatively young is such a blessing. I kind of regret spending my 20s far away from home, I barely see my folks, and they're getting old so fast..." }, { "id": "t1_ol3ja6l", "author": "/u/Witty_Badger7938", "updated": "2026-05-11T01:09:47+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/ol3ja6l/", "content": "Yeah I don’t see the issue. Reddit is subsumed with judgmental people" }, { "id": "t1_oky9oli", "author": "/u/Behold_My_Stuff", "updated": "2026-05-10T06:15:51+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/oky9oli/", "content": "Your parents arent saving $100k tho. They are subsidizing you.\n And $1mil ain't enough to not worry about a boss.\n I have more than a milly and I have a job cuz ya never know what the future holds, good or bad. Id 100% stop working at $3-4mil personally\n Im only 34 but I've lived long enough to see a McDonald's cheeseburger go from 25cents to $1 to $3 (all three of those prices were considered expensive, then cheap, at one point).\n By the time you hit a million, a cheap burger could be $10 and your million could be the new $100k" }, { "id": "t1_okxysue", "author": "/u/OkEssay4173", "updated": "2026-05-10T04:46:33+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/okxysue/", "content": "I'm only young once, so I don't want to work after 40." }, { "id": "t1_okxzdx9", "author": "/u/alphabetpig", "updated": "2026-05-10T04:50:38+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/okxzdx9/", "content": "No it’s not a cope. Only you can decide what tradeoff is best for you" }, { "id": "t1_oky3ueq", "author": "/u/LastBuffalo", "updated": "2026-05-10T05:25:28+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/oky3ueq/", "content": "In my experience, most people who live at home with their parents are doing so because either one or both parties need the support to just keep the roof over their head and eat. It’s not so much choosing to live frugally as needing to just to stay above water. The option to live a home with parents coving your expense while you have 100k extra to save is really not on the table for most people, whatever their choices.\n Likewise, many, many people who have a career can’t just live with their parents because that’s not where the job options are. The only place I really see a good number of people who can rake in great salaries in their 20s and also have parents who have enough of a house to host their adult kids rent-free is wealthy suburbs.\n I’d hardly call it “cope,” when for most people choosing to live on their own is usually the best path to more money and more options." }, { "id": "t1_okzixem", "author": "/u/GetWellDuckDotCom", "updated": "2026-05-10T12:39:36+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/okzixem/", "content": "Its called a parasite." }, { "id": "t1_ol0fhzb", "author": "/u/lyfehaqer", "updated": "2026-05-10T15:31:56+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/ol0fhzb/", "content": "Not necessarily true, I’m also 29M, funny enough, same exact number as OP invested, I currently live in an extremely HCOL city with my family my entire life. Living at home, I invested my 90% of my paycheck and was the best thing I ever did. If I moved out in my early 20s, I’d be stuck paying 3.5K in rent." }, { "id": "t1_okyv12i", "author": "/u/samamatara", "updated": "2026-05-10T09:33:26+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/okyv12i/", "content": "to me, there is a time for everything. going on an overseas trip at 20 something with mates while going for the cheapest hostels hits different to going on an overseas trip at 40 something with mates at five star hotels.\n similarly, chilling at home with mum and dad at 18 hit different chilling at home with mum and dad at 38. i would say 28 is quite late, but not too late to live life like an adult. dont put it off too much longer imo." }, { "id": "t1_oky1t1e", "author": "/u/talkgadget", "updated": "2026-05-10T05:08:54+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/oky1t1e/", "content": "Do it as long as you can stand. I did and, ironically, it was the only way I was able to then move out. You need every advantage you can get nowadays." }, { "id": "t1_oky32su", "author": "/u/runningdeuce", "updated": "2026-05-10T05:19:08+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/oky32su/", "content": "This extra time with your parents is priceless. And you are saving money too." }, { "id": "t1_okynthb", "author": "/u/Fugue_State76", "updated": "2026-05-10T08:24:48+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/okynthb/", "content": "It’s extended childhood." }, { "id": "t1_okypl83", "author": "/u/BeginningExternal202", "updated": "2026-05-10T08:41:54+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/okypl83/", "content": "Which is a problem imo" }, { "id": "t1_okytchs", "author": "/u/Voldy256", "updated": "2026-05-10T09:17:20+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/okytchs/", "content": "Yeah, OP should move out into an expensive apartment, save no money, be stressed out as hell, become depressed and get nowhere just like everyone else. But hey, at least he'll be an independent adult." }, { "id": "t1_okz9wk5", "author": "/u/Fugue_State76", "updated": "2026-05-10T11:39:06+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/okz9wk5/", "content": "Let’s have him report back in 15 years and see if his millions has solved all his problems. You’ve put up a straw man argument here." }, { "id": "t1_okzl54u", "author": "/u/That_City_2071", "updated": "2026-05-10T12:53:01+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/okzl54u/", "content": "And moving out will solve his problem in 15 years? You're not putting up a strong argument, if any, yourself. All of your comments are giving misery." }, { "id": "t1_ol0817x", "author": "/u/Fugue_State76", "updated": "2026-05-10T14:55:11+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/ol0817x/", "content": "No, but they’re giving judgment and yes, I’m absolutely judging. Just like future romantic partners will judge. It’s his life and he’s clearly chosen his priorities for his 20s/30s which many of us don’t share. Is that ok? Can you not handle disagreement?" }, { "id": "t1_okzsv9n", "author": "/u/poop-dolla", "updated": "2026-05-10T13:37:11+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/okzsv9n/", "content": "Or move in with friends as roommates in a cheap place so they still save a lot of money while learning to be an adult and building great friendships and memories." }, { "id": "t1_ol8ptzi", "author": "/u/BeginningExternal202", "updated": "2026-05-11T19:59:16+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/ol8ptzi/", "content": "Firstly, I intentionally included imo to acknowledge this is just my opinion.\n But there are also other options other than expensive apartments. That includes, but not limited to, buying a property to live in so you can build wealth and independence" }, { "id": "t1_ol972z7", "author": "/u/SetEnvironmental9368", "updated": "2026-05-11T21:19:20+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/ol972z7/", "content": "Op makes nearly 100k. Unless he lives in downtown Manhattan, he has more than enough money to save and live by himself." }, { "id": "t1_okz7br1", "author": "/u/Born_Sheepherder_243", "updated": "2026-05-10T11:19:38+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/okz7br1/", "content": "No it’s not you’ll always be a kid in the eyes of your parents. Help them out in the house play your part and enjoy the privilege of having your parents beside you\n The concept of every kid moving out paying crazy rent struggling financially is a joke. Family is number 1 no one gives a crap about u apart from your family" }, { "id": "t1_okzpqnr", "author": "/u/GlobalDifference8390", "updated": "2026-05-10T13:19:32+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/okzpqnr/", "content": "Says the person who never lost their parents at a young age." }, { "id": "t1_okxynw9", "author": "/u/Alarmed_Garbage_2222", "updated": "2026-05-10T04:45:36+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/okxynw9/", "content": "Nah man you're playing it smart. I'm 28 and military housing keeps me from dealing with crazy rent prices but watching my civilian friends stress about money constantly makes me realize how good we have it when we can avoid those traps\n Missing out on some independence sucks but having 400k at 29 is basically winning at life. Your friends might be having more "freedom" now but you'll have actual freedom in few years when you can tell your boss to shove it" }, { "id": "t1_okyo0fz", "author": "/u/Fugue_State76", "updated": "2026-05-10T08:26:41+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/okyo0fz/", "content": "And then do what? Learn to be a grownup in your 40s … while doing nothing? Isolation is on the way. Money ain’t everything." }, { "id": "t1_okz3gcg", "author": "/u/Parking_Two_2189", "updated": "2026-05-10T10:48:44+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/okz3gcg/", "content": "It’s not like I get 0% independence or responsibility by living at home. I cook all my meals, i help out around the house, mow my grandparents lawn.\n I don’t do most of the grocery shopping, I don’t do all the laundry, but other than that, I do just about everything else that’s required of me as an adult.\n I prob get at least 70% independence living at home that I would get on my own.\n Living on your own in an apartment isn’t hard.\n Owning a houses is a different story but that’ll come later." }, { "id": "t1_ol06ja3", "author": "/u/Own_Worldliness_9297", "updated": "2026-05-10T14:47:45+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/ol06ja3/", "content": "How is isolation on the way for him? lol he is living responsibly." }, { "id": "t1_ol0e6el", "author": "/u/Sarahstarry", "updated": "2026-05-10T15:25:26+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/ol0e6el/", "content": "People keep writing that but I have genuinely no idea what you are talking about. What exactly is there to learn that's so complex? Cooking, cleaning and setting up a recurring bank order? I don't intend to be mean I just genuinely don't see the point here." }, { "id": "t1_ol1g351", "author": "/u/Far_Foot_8068", "updated": "2026-05-10T18:24:21+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/ol1g351/", "content": "My thoughts exactly lol. I live at home with my parents and I'm confused what exactly I have to learn that I can't in my current situation. I do laundry, I cook, I clean, I buy groceries, I do repairs/maintenance around the house, I have a demanding career and manage my own finances, I have a solid group of friends and a partner.\n My parents aren't treating me like a kid they need to take care of. We live like roommates. No different than what I experienced when I lived "on my own" during university." }, { "id": "t1_okywoxq", "author": "/u/Critical_Bluejay_919", "updated": "2026-05-10T09:48:53+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/okywoxq/", "content": "Has it affected your social and dating life ? If so stacking more money would be pointless. You have enough to move out and live in a 1 bedroom" }, { "id": "t1_oky2ga6", "author": "/u/cupofpuer", "updated": "2026-05-10T05:14:02+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/oky2ga6/", "content": "Imo if you’ve lived outside of home for a few years, like during college or after college, then you’ve seen and done a lot of things independently already. Nothing wrong with staying home to save towards a down payment or a high net worth.\n Tons of first generation immigrants live together to save money even if they’re older. It’s not wrong if your parents are fine with it. Just help out with any financial burdens that your parents encounter in the future.\n I don’t think it’s the right decision for everyone, but a lot of people who come out socially fine and miles ahead financially." }, { "id": "t1_okzeywk", "author": "/u/That_City_2071", "updated": "2026-05-10T12:14:02+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/okzeywk/", "content": "Very well said. Different things work for different situations. Also, OP is not a kid that failed to launch. He appears to be successful. Living on your own is not what necessarily teaches you to be an adult. I know and work with many childish so-called adults everyday." }, { "id": "t1_oky2oh6", "author": "/u/DrImpeccable76", "updated": "2026-05-10T05:15:53+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/oky2oh6/", "content": "I know living with parents works well for some people, but never in a million years would I trade the time I spent learning to build my own life in my 20s for 400k in the bank" }, { "id": "t1_okz9vqg", "author": "/u/midtownkcc", "updated": "2026-05-10T11:38:55+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/okz9vqg/", "content": "Same. My 20s and even my early 30s were amovie. One that doesn't get made if I'm living with mom and dad instead of downtown in a major metro. Not only the fun, and experience but the lessons learned on how to deal with thought situations, on my own.\n At 43, I have a buddy in the same position as OP. Just failed to launch, and it doesn't look like he ever will. Sure, he has a bunch of money, but..." }, { "id": "t1_okz6dzg", "author": "/u/Virtual_Crow", "updated": "2026-05-10T11:12:22+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/okz6dzg/", "content": "The only thing worse than being old, is being old and poor. "Enjoy your 20s" was shit advice for me, and I wish I had spent those years saving instead of starting in my 30s." }, { "id": "t1_okznff8", "author": "/u/ZolaThaGod", "updated": "2026-05-10T13:06:24+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/okznff8/", "content": "Nice to hear from the other side of the coin.\n So many in here will say things like “I was broke all my 20s and now I’m 40 with $3 million!”… like, good for you? How many people didn’t take their 20s seriously and are now staring down the barrel of grinding a miserable existence until 70? It’s survivorship bias.\n Perhaps I just have PTSD, but I was raised mostly by a single mother who sometimes had to steal gas from the lawnmower canister to make it to work until next paycheck. The only thing I knew growing up was financial strain and hardship. Every single decision our household made centered around money. It was relentlessly nauseating and crushing to watch my mom go through that.\n Because of my upbringing, the only thing I’ve ever desired was financial stability. I’m happy for everyone else who apparently can just throw caution to the wind and wing it without a long term plan, but that’s just not me." }, { "id": "t1_okxznt7", "author": "", "updated": "2026-05-10T04:52:38+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/okxznt7/", "content": "[deleted]" }, { "id": "t1_okydnay", "author": "/u/Exclave4Ever", "updated": "2026-05-10T06:51:25+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/okydnay/", "content": "They are most definitely stunting their growth and have already admitted that.\n The worst part is Opie sounds just like every other Reddit post a bunch of money and zero knowledge, they're not even setting themselves up for success because they're not even educating themselves on the thing that matters." }, { "id": "t1_oky1vjz", "author": "/u/Tall_computer", "updated": "2026-05-10T05:09:27+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/oky1vjz/", "content": "Living with your parents is not cheaper, the cheaper part is where they pay your rent and food for you. You are on the teet basically" }, { "id": "t1_oky32yk", "author": "/u/EnvironmentalMix421", "updated": "2026-05-10T05:19:10+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/oky32yk/", "content": "Were u still able to bang bunch of chicks? If so then it’s ok" }, { "id": "t1_oky3h3l", "author": "/u/dxpe_08", "updated": "2026-05-10T05:22:23+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/oky3h3l/", "content": "Unironically true statement" }, { "id": "t1_okyh6vi", "author": "/u/FlamingoSingle2727", "updated": "2026-05-10T07:23:39+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/okyh6vi/", "content": "I am fired but if I could redo things I’d move to a big city and the the 20-something thing with roommates." }, { "id": "t1_okygxjj", "author": "/u/Seychelleshobo", "updated": "2026-05-10T07:21:15+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/okygxjj/", "content": "Lots of people will say you're still a child how can you live woth your parents at 30 but tbh if you have a good stable family at home who supports you, and you use this time to do exactly what you're doing then I dont see a issue. I did the exact same thing.\n I think the people who cant comprehend it often have more difficult family situations which makes them want to leave thier famill home ASAP no matter the trade offs. Im 31 and have no debt with a house car wife and some small investments. Dont let people tell you whats right for you." }, { "id": "t1_ol24x9u", "author": "/u/timallenchristmas", "updated": "2026-05-10T20:25:12+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/ol24x9u/", "content": "This whole thread makes me really sad. I was 20 when my mom died, and struggled throughout my 20s with chronic illness. I moved out a couple times for some stints in different cities, and now I’m living at home again at 30 (although working still and being a productive member of the household).\n But all of these comments talking shit about OP just make me realize how people probably view me, and it sucks to see." }, { "id": "t1_ol2gao7", "author": "/u/That_City_2071", "updated": "2026-05-10T21:22:40+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/ol2gao7/", "content": "People are very insecure and miserable with their own lives more than they care to admit. Any hint of you getting ahead easier, faster than they did makes them feel like they have to tell you how they did it better.\n Everyone is talking about how OP will not find a romantic partner living at home, but the dating apps are littered with sIngles also living in their shiny new apartments or homes." }, { "id": "t1_ol2bm99", "author": "/u/NaorobeFranz", "updated": "2026-05-10T20:58:35+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/ol2bm99/", "content": "Most here are likely American though. Other countries have multigenerational households." }, { "id": "t1_ol35li1", "author": "/u/Plus_Independent_680", "updated": "2026-05-10T23:48:35+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/ol35li1/", "content": "OP is bragging about how rich they are, and that makes other people insecure, so they talk shit. I wouldn't worry about it too much." }, { "id": "t1_ol86i0h", "author": "/u/vacantly-visible", "updated": "2026-05-11T18:30:37+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/ol86i0h/", "content": "I'm 28 living at home too, been working nearly 5 years and saving it all. I want a different job in another city so I can experience something different but with this job market being terrible, no responses to my applications, I feel like I can't get out. I might have to go for another role within my company, but for now I'm still trying externally.\n Sorry for your hardship. I totally understand that feeling of being perceived as a loser" }, { "id": "t1_okyisuv", "author": "/u/ptherbst", "updated": "2026-05-10T07:38:30+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/okyisuv/", "content": "If the only thing you're doing is living with your parents then I don't think it's bad. If you are missing out on experiences and travel just to save that cash, then yes, you're wasting your youth for a couple dollars." }, { "id": "t1_ol0658a", "author": "", "updated": "2026-05-10T14:45:49+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/ol0658a/", "content": "[deleted]" }, { "id": "t1_okxyneh", "author": "/u/Soft_Welcome_5621", "updated": "2026-05-10T04:45:30+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/okxyneh/", "content": "You’re soooo lucky. Keep saving. If I could’ve stayed at home at any point I would’ve saved so much money. It’s not the time of their life as you say, I was only doing it because literally my parents would’nt have me even one night after 17. Abusive messes. Many won’t say but don’t have the option to go home! You’re in an amazing position." }, { "id": "t1_okymlik", "author": "/u/gokuenjoyer69", "updated": "2026-05-10T08:13:25+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/okymlik/", "content": "Yeah but at the flip side you are 29 still living with your parents. Your peers are probably starting their own families now" }, { "id": "t1_okzdee9", "author": "/u/That_City_2071", "updated": "2026-05-10T12:03:30+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/okzdee9/", "content": ".... and getting divorced too, so what's your point?" }, { "id": "t1_okz7s6w", "author": "/u/SparklesTheFabulous", "updated": "2026-05-10T11:23:06+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/okz7s6w/", "content": "That's what I'm thinking. We had our first kid at 28 and third at 33. Holding off on a family for more money seems like a negative thing to me. But people have different priorities I guess." }, { "id": "t1_ol20d0z", "author": "/u/jboy126126", "updated": "2026-05-10T20:02:43+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/ol20d0z/", "content": "I guess it depends what they think wealth is. To me, wealth is kids and family that I made. To others, it’s being single forever and traveling.\n If the former, A potential partner is not going to be attracted to someone they found out was mooching off their parents into their 30s, and they probably need to move out." }, { "id": "t1_ol0ivuu", "author": "/u/Mobile-Mousse-8265", "updated": "2026-05-10T15:48:39+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/ol0ivuu/", "content": "My favorite part of my 20’s was when I moved back home. My parents didn’t interfere in my life and I went out with friends all the time and did what I wanted while saving a lot of money." }, { "id": "t1_okykvq4", "author": "/u/Case17", "updated": "2026-05-10T07:57:40+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/okykvq4/", "content": "for various reasons, life changes substantially at each period. No periods are identical.\n You won’t have the freedom and potential social opportunities and health… that you have in your teens and twenties, ever again. At 29 it’s nearly over, though it only gets worse. Soon your friends will all be married with kids on the way.\n I gave up my twenties going to grad school. I wish I traveled more. But I at least had aphase of life, living independently . Thank god i didn’t live at home on top of that. Just my personal experience." }, { "id": "t1_ol0ms7n", "author": "/u/Few_Way_368", "updated": "2026-05-10T16:07:37+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/ol0ms7n/", "content": "IMO your post comes across as a little arrogant and lacking empathy or understanding for why people live in a different way than you do. It’s important for you to remember not everyone has the ability or desire to live with their parents until they’re nearly 30. Rebounding (or never leaving) your parents house confines geographic opportunity. If you happened to grow up in a city or metro area with ample economic opportunity then good for you. But not everyone has that luxury and economic opportunity requires moving away from their parents. This doesn’t even touch on relationship between child and parent, continued space in a parents home for an adult child to continue living there, or parents still being alive to move home to. In some ways, your parents are sacrificing their own geographic and housing opportunities by allowing you to continue living with them. I’m sure they are happy to help you along but their sacrifice for your financial gain should be recognized on your part.\n There are social benefits to knowing what it’s like to live with people who aren’t family. Your peers who don’t live at home are experiencing that. Is it expensive? Sure but they get to learn what it’s like to share a space before getting married or moving in with a long term partner. They are also learning how to budget an entire life out of their income vs minimal effort necessary in your situation. It’s a skill you will still have to learn eventually. There is the added benefit of younger people having a tendency to clump together geographically in typically dense areas vs older adults moving to suburban areas. By living near your peers, natural relationships develop and more social opportunities pop up sporadically.\n There are tradeoffs to either approach but there is no wrong approach like your post implies." }, { "id": "t1_ol1lzur", "author": "/u/Due-Advantage-4755", "updated": "2026-05-10T18:53:02+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/ol1lzur/", "content": "I did the same, now mid 40s. I don’t feel like I missed out anything. I have a paid off house and live comfortably while a lot of people I know who “lived it up” are struggling" }, { "id": "t1_okxyzvo", "author": "", "updated": "2026-05-10T04:47:53+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/okxyzvo/", "content": "[deleted]" }, { "id": "t1_okxzm42", "author": "", "updated": "2026-05-10T04:52:17+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/okxzm42/", "content": "Life sucks\n You’ll never regret spending time with your parents. Especially when they’re gone.\n Congrats" }, { "id": "t1_oky129e", "author": "/u/partypartypoorboy", "updated": "2026-05-10T05:03:06+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/oky129e/", "content": "I was in the same position at one point. Only downside is, my dating and personal life was shit. I couldn’t bring girls over to my parent’s house. I’m also a stoner and couldn’t smoke weed around my parents. It was nice saving and all, but moving out to my own place and having everything in my own name was worth the cost in my opinion. I’d rather pay rent than have to live a life where I’m in my parent’s house ever again.\n While it alleviated the burden of my parents for having a grown son in their house, I also learned a lot about cooking, laundry, cleaning, and everything that comes with having my own place. I feel like it made me more well-rounded and allowed me to be in a better place mentally. It honestly wasn’t as expensive as I expected it to be anyways. Now, I’m 28 years old with a net worth of $500k. If I stayed with my parents, maybe I’d have $600k or $700k by now. But it really doesn’t matter to me, I’m much happier and more at peace.\n If you feel otherwise, then no problem staying. But I couldn’t handle it any longer, personally. I love my independence and freedom and it’s worth more to me than saving a couple thousand dollars. One day I’ll get married and have kids, for now I get to experience life the way I want to on my own terms." }, { "id": "t1_okxyg8p", "author": "/u/PreparationCold7267", "updated": "2026-05-10T04:44:05+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/okxyg8p/", "content": "Stayed at home until after 30.... Saved 5k a month or more... It's wonderful... Don't ever forget.. while you've been saving I have friends who were living the time of their life while they were young... I live the same life. Just playing devil's advocate ... Point is... It's time for you to live that way.. you are more financially rich.. now it's time too live like them" }, { "id": "t1_okyaer6", "author": "/u/sowoky", "updated": "2026-05-10T06:22:17+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/okyaer6/", "content": "Dude it's not "living at home" when you're 29.. it's "living in my parents basement". Get of the teet." }, { "id": "t1_ol1zmqe", "author": "/u/jboy126126", "updated": "2026-05-10T19:59:08+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/ol1zmqe/", "content": "I would never take a colleague seriously if I found out they were living at home at 29. How could I expect you to manage a project when you cannot manage yourself?" }, { "id": "t1_ol0li2w", "author": "/u/Busy_Resort_3262", "updated": "2026-05-10T16:01:19+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/ol0li2w/", "content": "I think living at home with parents is going to be the norm in the near future.\n It harder for the younger generations to do what boomers and Gen X were able to do financially." }, { "id": "t1_ol0tj72", "author": "/u/TootsHib", "updated": "2026-05-10T16:40:48+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/ol0tj72/", "content": "I have 650k saved and I still can't justify the cost of moving out..\n It's an absolute rip-off." }, { "id": "t1_okxz9ps", "author": "/u/tonguepuncher88", "updated": "2026-05-10T04:49:48+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/okxz9ps/", "content": "Just keep doing what your doing. Save money and keep healthy, 30s are more fun that 20s anyway." }, { "id": "t1_oky0trv", "author": "/u/khearan", "updated": "2026-05-10T05:01:18+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/oky0trv/", "content": "Everyone has different priorities. I'm in a great financial position now at 35 but wouldn't have traded those younger years in college, getting my first apartment with roommates, and having an absolute blast for anything. Once I was out of the partying stage and had a career job I continued to live with roommates, which is akin to what you're doing." }, { "id": "t1_oky349h", "author": "/u/dxpe_08", "updated": "2026-05-10T05:19:27+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/oky349h/", "content": "I mean you can just find balance lmfao. Instead of investing 100k a year, invest 70k and spend 30k on whatever you want.\n But ngl brother having $1 million at 40, which is unfortunately a lot less than most people think it is, is sure as shit not worth being in your 30’s and living at home while presumably also not doing fun extravagant things.\n Ik this isn’t exactly a pep talk, but there are a lot of ways to make it and retire early in this world, and hoarding cash while giving up every ounce of freedom you could possibly have is a lame one\n Also if you think the economy is “bad” or that it’s ever going to just “better” I have a bridge to sell you. This is the new normal since COVID, find a way." }, { "id": "t1_ol20ujv", "author": "/u/jboy126126", "updated": "2026-05-10T20:05:07+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/ol20ujv/", "content": "If you’re going to go broke, go broke before you’re 30. You can recover, learn, and grow even more.\n OP is being so careful that the first fuck up leaves them with no wiggle room. (That could be being too financially exposed, a bad partner, whatever)" }, { "id": "t1_okyo7hb", "author": "/u/Fit_Interaction_79", "updated": "2026-05-10T08:28:34+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/okyo7hb/", "content": "Yo can still have a great life and live with your parents" }, { "id": "t1_ol07myt", "author": "/u/eeeeeelinor", "updated": "2026-05-10T14:53:15+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/ol07myt/", "content": "As an old person and a mom, posts like this make me sad.\n You should absolutely enjoy your youth.\n Sometimes it helps for people who can’t see how to do that to be thrust into the world against their will. I’m sure your parents love you but they may not really be helping by letting you live at home so long. I know this is also cultural, though" }, { "id": "t1_ol0y1ns", "author": "/u/Advanced-Sherbet-293", "updated": "2026-05-10T17:02:18+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/ol0y1ns/", "content": "Why are people in the FIRE subreddit talking about how you need to spend more money by leaving home? I feel like the earliest proponents of FIRE encouraged staying home as long as feasible.\n Make sure you are earning your keep, whether that be financially or otherwise. Your parents are doing you a huge favor, and you should treat them accordingly.\n I am in a similar situation to you (though a bit younger) and most of my peers still live with their parents, some out of need (low paying jobs or unemployment) and some to save money. Some of the people who did move out still stay with their parents every weekend. Staying at home isn't shameful, and you can still have a good social life while living with your parents.\n I also find it strange that people are saying that living with your parents means you can't date. Most of the people I know who live with their parents are in relationships, so I'm a bit confused when people are talking about dating difficulties, especially when OP didn't even bring it up." }, { "id": "t1_ol3dz9h", "author": "/u/LT_Bilko", "updated": "2026-05-11T00:38:41+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/ol3dz9h/", "content": "Just save 80k a year and take a few very nice vacations. You won’t feel like you missed much as long as you can have connections in whatever way matters. Nothing wrong with living with family though. That is a very American trait to view that negatively. The rest of the world often expects families to be together." }, { "id": "t1_ol3oozp", "author": "/u/Commercial_Rule_7823", "updated": "2026-05-11T01:42:56+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/ol3oozp/", "content": "Ironically, there are 25 to 30 year olds that still have to live at home and make 15 an hour and have 0 saved.\n Youll be ok." }, { "id": "t1_ol70c6e", "author": "/u/casvicstylist", "updated": "2026-05-11T15:21:57+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/ol70c6e/", "content": "Imo being in your 30s with financial freedom will feel way more like you’re only young once than in your 20s with rent anxiety ever could." }, { "id": "t1_oky0oiy", "author": "/u/ZenithFablee", "updated": "2026-05-10T05:00:10+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/oky0oiy/", "content": "400k at 29 is insane, you're winning not coping" }, { "id": "t1_oky4idg", "author": "/u/GodOfThunder101", "updated": "2026-05-10T05:31:05+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/oky4idg/", "content": "Nah. You’re definitely missing out on personal growth. Living on your own develops you in ways you don’t realize. Moving out allows people also find their spouses and have families and meet new friends.\n Sure money is nice. But is that all you will have once you finally move out?" }, { "id": "t1_oky5mkm", "author": "/u/sklantee", "updated": "2026-05-10T05:40:39+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/oky5mkm/", "content": "The only thing I'm going to say is that my kids will 100% NOT be living with me when they are 29 barring some sort of disability on one side or the other." }, { "id": "t1_oky80vp", "author": "/u/krankovi", "updated": "2026-05-10T06:01:15+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/oky80vp/", "content": "sounds like you are the one coping because you desire reassurance.\n Sure you will be rich at 40, but with no family and no fond memories. Thats the trade off. A person on either end of it could be 'coping'." }, { "id": "t1_okyb6am", "author": "/u/Ucanthandlelit", "updated": "2026-05-10T06:29:15+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/okyb6am/", "content": "Better to suffer so much to only have memories of just working your a off just to pay the bills 🙄" }, { "id": "t1_okyfse6", "author": "/u/Alarming-Mix3809", "updated": "2026-05-10T07:10:42+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/okyfse6/", "content": "On the flip side, you could say what you’re doing is a cope. Missing out on life but telling yourself it’s ok because you have a big pile of money. Maybe the answer is something in the middle." }, { "id": "t1_okz1rut", "author": "/u/Pdawnm", "updated": "2026-05-10T10:34:23+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/okz1rut/", "content": "You're fine, it's what I did as well.. stayed with parents through much of my 20s and now have FI and a lot of freedom in what I do. Looking back, what a lot of people think about having fun in your 20s is just chasing various dopamine hits. Living a more quiet life in your twenties allows you to cultivate steadiness, wisdom, and deep connection. It makes your 40s much happier and joyful, whereas a lot of the folks I remember from in my twenties seem pretty stressed and bitter." }, { "id": "t1_okz9no8", "author": "/u/No_Cow_4841", "updated": "2026-05-10T11:37:17+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/okz9no8/", "content": "Do you.Please don’t come on here looking for validation because you’re not going to find it. Your experience of life is your experience, don’t let other people’s opinions shape what you want to accomplish. If this gets you to where you want to be then do it, when you feel stable enough move to the next step. I would however set a goal and say when I have X number of dollars I will move out. This way even if you have to lower your savings for a bit while you figure out living on your own you’ll still be financially stable." }, { "id": "t1_okzf6sr", "author": "/u/StretcherEctum", "updated": "2026-05-10T12:15:28+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/okzf6sr/", "content": "Yes its a cope. Stack that paper!" }, { "id": "t1_okzftg7", "author": "/u/saltyhasp", "updated": "2026-05-10T12:19:36+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/okzftg7/", "content": "Yes it is cope. It is a mask for short term thinking which fits how most people think. There is nothing special about being young. One just hopes that people don't do something really stupid though that too happens all the time. I'm 60's now. Frankly 50's were the best decade so far, but 60's is fine too." }, { "id": "t1_okzmh9g", "author": "/u/Warm_Championship946", "updated": "2026-05-10T13:00:53+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/okzmh9g/", "content": "Won't have to worry about a boss at 1m? While you live with mom and dad? Do you have any goals outside of money? Are you going to retire to the basement at 1m? Do you have a partner? Don't you want some independence?" }, { "id": "t1_olalol0", "author": "/u/neatneets", "updated": "2026-05-12T02:02:33+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/olalol0/", "content": "My only goal is money for now. Independence I see as a luxury which can be granted only after FIRE. If moving out now is going to set me back financially and add more working years, I’d rather not." }, { "id": "t1_okzqtqe", "author": "/u/Mc_Dickles", "updated": "2026-05-10T13:25:39+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/okzqtqe/", "content": "My friend moved out in his 30’s and skipped the roommate stuff, just bought his own crib. Sounds like you have plenty of money to do it but you’re choosing not too." }, { "id": "t1_ol0ituj", "author": "/u/No-Reading-942", "updated": "2026-05-10T15:48:23+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/ol0ituj/", "content": "Your friend literally stop coming around by early 30s due to kids wife etc. if you have any" }, { "id": "t1_ol0p4zl", "author": "/u/neatneets", "updated": "2026-05-10T16:19:17+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/ol0p4zl/", "content": "I have a few they’ve all gone quiet and the whole hanging out doesn’t happen like it used to in my early 20s. So I’m fine being alone" }, { "id": "t1_ol0k8bk", "author": "/u/Fun-Menu-6035", "updated": "2026-05-10T15:55:08+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/ol0k8bk/", "content": "Dude. Move out and live. You will 100% regret wasting your youth at mom and dad's. Hit the gym and find people to hang out with." }, { "id": "t1_ol0kk5s", "author": "/u/Massif16", "updated": "2026-05-10T15:56:44+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/ol0kk5s/", "content": "Do you contribute to the household or are you a parasite? If you’re contributing, then it just come down to the experience you want. I moved out at 26, and I am glad I did. I wasn’t sure I would, but I loved having my own place… decorated as I liked, that I could do what I wanted in. And, ahem, private for when having privacy is a good thing (nudge, nudge; wink, wink). My girlfriend could stay over. I had friends over. I had my parents over. But I wasn’t a millionaire by 35. I’m doing well, and will be able to retire comfortably, but FIRE wasn’t an option for me. I frequent this sub because I got stupid in my 30’s and 40’s and needed to fix my sh!t in my 50’s LOL. I do not regret living as I did in my 20’s. It was awesome and I’d do the same again." }, { "id": "t1_ol1r9ul", "author": "/u/Remote_Reaction_4085", "updated": "2026-05-10T19:18:42+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/ol1r9ul/", "content": "Just make sure you have a good lawyer on permanent retainer and a lock-solid prenupt should any relationship arise." }, { "id": "t1_ol2gfde", "author": "/u/SetEnvironmental9368", "updated": "2026-05-10T21:23:20+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/ol2gfde/", "content": "What relationships, lol? What woman is gonna want to be with a man-child?" }, { "id": "t1_ol2tp2w", "author": "/u/Hawkes75", "updated": "2026-05-10T22:37:43+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/ol2tp2w/", "content": "You're not missing out on anything worthwhile. I spent my 20's saving and investing while my friends were going on expensive vacations, buying clothes and cars, etc. Now in my 40's with a wife and kids, being able to provide them a comfortable life where they want for nothing due to the choices I made when I was younger is an immense source of pride for me." }, { "id": "t1_ol3tiaq", "author": "/u/gaycats420", "updated": "2026-05-11T02:12:06+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/ol3tiaq/", "content": "my husband and i both did this before we got married! it was awesome and now we’re in a great spot as parents. if you have the opportunity you’d be a fool not to take it. we plan to do the same for our kids too" }, { "id": "t1_okxzfoj", "author": "/u/Sweaty-Ad5359", "updated": "2026-05-10T04:50:58+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/okxzfoj/", "content": "Don’t regret having your own place. Saving/investing will put you in a great position for kids or FIRE. You can still enjoy life, like vacation and hang out with friends since you are saving well. Don’t miss out on life if your plan for FIRE is on track. My brother lived with me when he was over 30yo to pay off medical student loans. Now he lives with no student loans, a house, and vacations while saving." }, { "id": "t1_okxzrar", "author": "/u/Hot_Initiative1549", "updated": "2026-05-10T04:53:20+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/okxzrar/", "content": "it’s 100% cope. its the only way they can try to attack you since they cant talk shit about your finances. and they attack you because they’re jealous.\n and no matter what they say, it’s always jealousy even though they’ll give you million reasons to make it seem like it isn’t.\n also, believe it or not, they’re mostly working just like you but instead of saving it’s all going into the trash bin." }, { "id": "t1_okz0obm", "author": "/u/folklorelover0", "updated": "2026-05-10T10:24:45+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/okz0obm/", "content": "Who is attacking him? lol" }, { "id": "t1_okz3et9", "author": "/u/ZolaThaGod", "updated": "2026-05-10T10:48:22+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/okz3et9/", "content": "Everyone in the comments telling him he’s a man child while knowing nothing about the arrangement?\n OP could easily be splitting bills, doing chores, grocery shopping, learning to DIY things, have a social group, etc.\n Half these comments hear “I’m 29 and live at home” and immediately envision some Cheeto-stained neckbeard getting pampered by mommy. The judgement is off the charts." }, { "id": "t1_oky11fr", "author": "", "updated": "2026-05-10T05:02:56+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/oky11fr/", "content": "[deleted]" }, { "id": "t1_oky2xp0", "author": "/u/DrImpeccable76", "updated": "2026-05-10T05:17:57+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/oky2xp0/", "content": "It is if you live in your parents basement the rest of your life…" }, { "id": "t1_oky2lm4", "author": "/u/Junior-Valuable2071", "updated": "2026-05-10T05:15:14+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/oky2lm4/", "content": "Dude once you get to a certain age, everyone your age has kids.\n Camping trips, wine tours, rock climbing skiing, idk whatever you’re into. It goes from adult friends going off and hanging out to all of your friends lives revolve around their kids and now they’re dragging their kids in all their trips with them.\n You really are only young once. At 29 you might have a few years left .. maybe.." }, { "id": "t1_oky3izk", "author": "/u/Exxon_Valdezznuts", "updated": "2026-05-10T05:22:49+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/oky3izk/", "content": "I did a lot when I was younger and am financially secure now, well on my way to Fire. I regret not taking more time to pursue more adventures when I was young. I’ll retire earlier than most but will have regrets about lost opportunities money can’t buy.\n Move out of your parent’s house and start taking more risks." }, { "id": "t1_oky8w16", "author": "/u/Healthy_Employer4", "updated": "2026-05-10T06:08:46+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/oky8w16/", "content": "You’re a child with a big bank account. No romantic partner. No home. No struggles to overcome. You bank all you money because you’re being cared for by your parents, like a child" }, { "id": "t1_okzhfkj", "author": "/u/That_City_2071", "updated": "2026-05-10T12:30:05+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/okzhfkj/", "content": "Dude, you probably don't realize it, but you sound bitter, miserable, and lonely....like your romantic partnership ended in...divorce. An accomplished 29 year old living with their parent is far from being a child. But go on and overcome your struggles to win your adult card." }, { "id": "t1_okyd06y", "author": "/u/Hooked__On__Chronics", "updated": "2026-05-10T06:45:42+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/okyd06y/", "content": "Financially you are obviously doing well. But you are on the fast track to being emotionally stunted and dependent, if not already there. It will be hard to see right now, but it will be clear when you’re older, and hopefully it isn’t too late. All those life lessons that people learn in their 20s, like how to live on your own, afford a place, juggle bills, potentially live with others, have a relationship, take care of yourself when you’re sick with no one around, fix your own place up, go home to a new neighborhood, etc. you will not truly learn until you leave. Not judging you or saying what you’re doing is wrong. But the developmental trade off you’re making will be cemented before you realize it, and you may very well be an unhappy adult when you eventually have to learn these things when you’re not in your learning years. It’s not impossible, but that’s what it is." }, { "id": "t1_okydx8j", "author": "/u/Substantial_Rule_464", "updated": "2026-05-10T06:53:56+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/okydx8j/", "content": "These scenarios are crazy to me. I love my parents and was free at 16 with my driver’s license and pretty much gone at 18 after leaving for college. I get that you can save money, but don’t you want to be … an adult?" }, { "id": "t1_okye5kd", "author": "/u/icehole505", "updated": "2026-05-10T06:55:59+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/okye5kd/", "content": "A million is absolutely not “don’t have to worry about a boss” money in 2026.. unless you plan on continuing to live with mommy and daddy forever.\n The real solution is make more money so you can start living an independent adult life and still continue saving." }, { "id": "t1_okyxazf", "author": "/u/Fantastic_Ebb_3397", "updated": "2026-05-10T09:54:30+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/okyxazf/", "content": ""You're only young once" is a mindset borrowed from people whose idea of life is based on other people's lives. Most never sit down and actually think about what they want. They never design or envision a life on their own terms.If what you're doing right now is grounded in your own ambitions, goals, values, and principles, and you're genuinely okay with the trade-offs, then you're winning. Full stop.Most people aren't even aware of what they're trading. They follow the crowd, party hard, chase shallow hookups, and treat their twenties like a permanent vacation. Then 30 hits, real life starts, and they realize the "fun" of their twenties was just credit borrowed from their thirties. Now they're paying it back with interest: stuck in jobs they hate to cover rent, car payments, and bills, while watching people like you, who delayed gratification, walk into financial freedom.You're not coping. You're compounding. Cash, time, and optionality. The people telling you "you're only young once" will still be saying it at 45, broke, and wondering where it all went." }, { "id": "t1_okyzhv3", "author": "/u/folklorelover0", "updated": "2026-05-10T10:14:18+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/okyzhv3/", "content": "Living with your parents is fine, but missing out on experiences isn’t." }, { "id": "t1_okzaajs", "author": "/u/heartbroke8", "updated": "2026-05-10T11:41:55+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/okzaajs/", "content": "I lived at home until I was 35. I never mooched as I paid the house mortgage and all expenses. My parents simply didn’t want me to move out of the house. I had previously lived on my own/with roommates for college and for my graduate degree (so till about age 25). Even living with my parents, I Still had fun going out in my late 20s and early 30s (just didn’t bring girls back home). Like you, I saved tons of cash and used that to buy properties during the real estate crash in 2008-2012. Those properties have doubled or tripled in value now and provides me with almost $100k annual cash flow now. My net worth is now about $5million at age 50. Retiring next year. So I say it’s worth it!" }, { "id": "t1_okzdplt", "author": "/u/SpaceDesignWarehouse", "updated": "2026-05-10T12:05:37+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/okzdplt/", "content": "In my 20’s I was in a band and living in a one room house with 5 people and those are some of the most priceless memories I have." }, { "id": "t1_okzhzte", "author": "/u/SpeciousSophist", "updated": "2026-05-10T12:33:41+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/okzhzte/", "content": "You obviously know this, but, not everybody has a good relationship with their parents where they can live at home like this. And even the people that do have a good relationship with their parents, many of them still can’t live at home due to personality and lifestyle differences.\n Normally, when people invoke these life colloquialisms, there is additional information implied that’s not being said. In this case, the implication from your perspective would be that living at home. That’s exactly the same kind of lifestyle that you can live when you’re young.\n So, how do you and your parents lifestyles align? Do you guys like to live exactly the same way?\n are you able to bring people back to your house and have parties and hook up and sleep until the middle of the day and wreck the place and have heavy drug use or alcohol or do irresponsible things all of this with your parents watching in full display? Do you have a girlfriend or a boyfriend that regularly spends the night and walks around in their underwear with music blasting at 9 AM? Is there a room or bathroom in the house that you get to treat like absolute crap because that’s the place that you just never can be bothered to clean up? How about one night you just don’t feel like it and you leave a ton of dirty dishes in the sink?" }, { "id": "t1_okzvg34", "author": "/u/BustaStar", "updated": "2026-05-10T13:51:06+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/okzvg34/", "content": "Some facts you might want to think seriously about:\n\n- learning is easier when you are younger than when you are older.\n- behavior patterns are harder to change when you are older.\n- you are approaching 30 and have not learned to co-live with humans who you have not known your entire life.\n- paring up with another human is a big part of where happiness (for the rest of your life) comes from\n- your *ability* to learn to live with this future partner is is diminishing every year (due to the above)\n- the available of potential partners is diminishing every year\n- If kids are in your future -> your ability to be a parent in your 20s is very different from 30s and very different from 40s. Being the parent you really want to be to young kids gets exponentially less likely as you get older. I didn’t say ‘harder’ as you get older, i said less likely. There are life changes which occurs as you get older that are not just overcome by ‘trying harder’. (no this is not a cope) be careful of falling into the ‘number goes up = winning’ trap. I get this is the fire subreddit though.." }, { "id": "t1_okzxhpn", "author": "/u/theriibirdun", "updated": "2026-05-10T14:01:50+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/okzxhpn/", "content": "I wouldn't trade being broke In a major city in my 20's with my friends for anything in the world. There is something g special about those crappy apartments and dive bars, scrambling to pay rent, etc. it was the best." }, { "id": "t1_okzydfw", "author": "/u/Ok_Prune_1731", "updated": "2026-05-10T14:06:26+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/okzydfw/", "content": "Depends on what you want out of life. There definitely needs to be balance in my mind. As nobody's future is promised. Millions of people never reach retirement so yeah to a certain extent you should enjoy your youth.\n I think most people use it as a excuse though to spend all there money and barley invest though. Ignoring the fire side of things which the avg person doesnt have the luxury to seriously participate in not saving up for retirement is objectively a mistake and you will regret it. That being said enjoying your 20a and 30s is important imo." }, { "id": "t1_ol01o15", "author": "/u/Outside_Glass4880", "updated": "2026-05-10T14:23:15+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/ol01o15/", "content": "I’m in my mid 30s now and have a decent chunk - 350k 401(k) and 150k or so in my personal brokerage.\n In my opinion I wish I started saving earlier and more aggressively. Compound interest is a beast.\n You can still go out with friends, travel, live your life while staying at home saving money.\n I spent way too much money on housing, food, bars, going out, and travel.\n That said, if you aren’t putting some on the side to have fun, definitely do that, and travel. Just don’t blow it all. There is definitely a happy medium." }, { "id": "t1_ol082cm", "author": "/u/shouldthrowawaysoon", "updated": "2026-05-10T14:55:21+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/ol082cm/", "content": "It’s all a balance and highly variable based on your individual preferences and opportunities. You’ll also never dial things in perfectly as you go through life." }, { "id": "t1_ol09fv6", "author": "/u/corvally315", "updated": "2026-05-10T15:02:10+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/ol09fv6/", "content": "If you feel good about Mommy & Daddy bankrolling you, then why you asking this question?" }, { "id": "t1_ol0fbqk", "author": "/u/paq12x", "updated": "2026-05-10T15:31:05+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/ol0fbqk/", "content": "Having a great relationship with parents and living at home is the ultimate life hack.\n I lived away from home for around 5 years after graduation, then moved back home when I got another job closer to home. Then I moved out for around 10 years. When mom retired, I moved her in with us (her house is around an hr away, and she comes back to take care of the house every other weekend or so).\n Best home-cooked food. My wife, kids, and even my cat love her. Wouldn't have it any other way." }, { "id": "t1_ol0lkp7", "author": "/u/ForeverInBlackJeans", "updated": "2026-05-10T16:01:40+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/ol0lkp7/", "content": "What’s your social and romantic life like? Do you bring girls back to mommy and daddy’s house?" }, { "id": "t1_ol0lw9v", "author": "/u/DimSumDesire", "updated": "2026-05-10T16:03:15+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/ol0lw9v/", "content": "I’m having the time of my life independent, getting experiences and working while saving. You can do both. I’d never date someone your age living at home dependent on that situation. Also $1M won’t be what you think, you’ll still feel poor af." }, { "id": "t1_ol0n6ko", "author": "/u/quakquakduck", "updated": "2026-05-10T16:09:36+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/ol0n6ko/", "content": "Personally, I think it’s all based on the type of person you are. I’m the same age as you( turn 30 in 10 days), but I have $633k invested. I do live in HCOL area and my parents will be well off when they retire because they bought a house for $200k 35 years ago and now it’s worth $1.3m+. They both will get pensions, both have solid 401(k)s. Seeing how excited they are to “touch” their money when they retire kind of flipped a switch for me. They virtually have all their wealth tied up into retirement accounts and equity in their house and can’t “enjoy” their money until 65.\n I grew up with loving parents but every decision was based on money. Did this affect how I view money? Probably. It sucked not being able to spend money freely in college because my parents didn’t have any to give me but I made it work. My parents were/are the most supportive parents I could have asked for. The relationship with them is great which makes living at home easy.\n I bought into the FIRE philosophy a couple years ago because having financial stability is something I want for my life and future family. Now, I’m at the point where i can stop saving $10k a month, take on more expenses, and still be ok investing $3-$5k a month. Rent for a 1BR in my area is around $3k a month for a decent place. I’m ready for it.\n Obviously living at home depends on how good your relationship is with your parents and I’m thankful for mine. I paid off my student loans, paid off my car and got a decent chunk of change to get me going in the future. I still do whatever I want, but also, I’m a pretty low key person anyways so it wasn’t much of a pain that people make it out to be.\n The hardest thing for me now is finding balance of spending money and still saving it so if anyone here has the wisdom to break that psychological barrier, that would be awesome!" }, { "id": "t1_ol0o7zz", "author": "/u/noomanium", "updated": "2026-05-10T16:14:44+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/ol0o7zz/", "content": "My son, currently 14, is Autistic to the level that he may need support throughout his life. While he very well may be able to be gainfully employed, there may be accommodations necessary that would not necessarily be an option in this current climate and going forward. His plan is to live at home until forever, apparently. And my husband and I are ok with that. He is a great room mate, is polite and gracious, and makes his own spending money mowing lawns for neighbors. He didn’t ask to have these challenges in life, and as his parents we will do whatever we can to provide him with what he needs to succeed as much as we can. If he’s still living with us in his 30s or 40s that’s fine." }, { "id": "t1_ol0qifc", "author": "/u/Fun_99", "updated": "2026-05-10T16:25:58+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/ol0qifc/", "content": "Everyone here thinks different but I think you are lucky, not only to save money but to live with your parents and be close to them. I moved out of home at 19 for university in another continent, I am 32 years old now and I visit my parents only once a year, stay with them 6 weeks and then return to the country where I have been living since uni. I work hard and everything but being far from them is also a price to pay. Enjoy living with them while you can. There will be plenty of time for you to move out in the future." }, { "id": "t1_ol15ael", "author": "/u/cheesefubar0", "updated": "2026-05-10T17:35:19+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/ol15ael/", "content": "Money = freedom. Keep going *unless* it’s inhibiting you from finding a mate or having kids (if you want them)." }, { "id": "t1_ol1jioh", "author": "/u/weird-fishz", "updated": "2026-05-10T18:41:02+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/ol1jioh/", "content": "I don’t think they’re living at a home has to be anonymous Wood not enjoying your 20s or 30s! Find some hobbies that you enjoy, spend plenty of time away from home, do some traveling, make sure you live it up! Realistically living at home is no different than living with any other roommates in the sense that you can still do mostly whatever you want.\n Also, find a girlfriend who has her own place loo" }, { "id": "t1_ol21lqx", "author": "/u/AcanthisittaWhole216", "updated": "2026-05-10T20:08:49+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/ol21lqx/", "content": "Not everyone has the luxury of having parents who has a house you can live in. Not only mine didn’t have a place for me to live, I have to buy a house to let my parents, siblings and nephews to live in." }, { "id": "t1_ol34tlo", "author": "/u/BookkeeperSame195", "updated": "2026-05-10T23:43:57+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/ol34tlo/", "content": "If your family is sane and supportive and fun to be around- this is wonderful." }, { "id": "t1_ol3cajm", "author": "/u/AltForObvious1177", "updated": "2026-05-11T00:28:46+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/ol3cajm/", "content": "What do you think is going to happen when you have a million dollars?" }, { "id": "t1_ol3t89w", "author": "/u/mi3chaels", "updated": "2026-05-11T02:10:29+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/ol3t89w/", "content": "So a few things about this. One is that you're not actually independent if you're living with parents and not paying for all your own cost/fair rent share, etc.\n Another is that not everyone has a relationship with their parents where they could do this for years and stay sane. A lot of people have abusive parents, and many more have parents that are massively overprotective/meddling or otherwise very difficult to live with as an adult.\n Thirdly, not everyone has access to very good job opportunities close enough to where their family is to do this.\n Finally, it's much more difficult to establish a serious relationship that might lead to marriage and kids (or even just date!) while you're living with your parents. If that's important to you, there's a balance to be struck between getting a really good head start on savings, vs. getting a good head start on finding a partner and close adult friendships." }, { "id": "t1_ol4j5oc", "author": "/u/Tall_Diver_9018", "updated": "2026-05-11T05:14:31+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/ol4j5oc/", "content": "You won't really regret it. Keep going your almost there! A lot of broke people say yolo to justify stupidity. In a few years when you have freedom you will hear "must be nice" You sacrificed and then you get to enjoy and truly live life, not 1 week of vacation at a time. Advice from a 40 year old mm net worth, with a family leaving in CA. You got it!" }, { "id": "t1_ol7c1j0", "author": "/u/mqueen212", "updated": "2026-05-11T16:14:20+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/ol7c1j0/", "content": "Being young is great but being rich is better. Unless you’re in poor health then being young is better" }, { "id": "t1_ol7cp9t", "author": "/u/neatneets", "updated": "2026-05-11T16:17:21+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/ol7cp9t/", "content": "I’m in good health" }, { "id": "t1_oldfcyu", "author": "/u/AmIRadBadOrJustSad", "updated": "2026-05-12T13:55:21+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/oldfcyu/", "content": "It depends to the degree in which you turned down other opportunities in exchange for this. Financially, you've clearly made a decision that allowed you to save a lot of money very fast, but I don't imagine it had zero trade-offs.\n Hard to argue that you are worse off financially than if you had been throwing 45% of your income at living alone in an apartment you can barely afford. But if you declined to move in with a partner and start a family because you prioritized saving money and living with your parents, I'd say there's an intangible part of growing into adulthood you've lost out on to some extent.\n And of course, we can never prove the negative of what your life would have been if you had taken chances that you didn't." }, { "id": "t1_okxyi93", "author": "/u/no-hate", "updated": "2026-05-10T04:44:28+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/okxyi93/", "content": "😂😂😂 I spit my drink out reading this" }, { "id": "t1_okxyn8t", "author": "/u/Wilhelm-Edrasill", "updated": "2026-05-10T04:45:28+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/okxyn8t/", "content": "You - Sir - or Maam , are in a fucking KING/ QUEEN position to FIRE - un-ironically. Stay. The. Course.\n My family , were all luddite , moron ( insert fuck head derogative here ) - for being stupid enough ( like nearly every single western norm ) - " your 18 , go pay rent ".\n Do you know how much my family has cost me in opportunity costs?\n literally , its in the millions - if not 10s of millions just on the fire principal alone.\n *shrugs* - but hey that is why FIRE works in part right? We cannot all have the time, financial opportunity, or health to - you know actually do it." }, { "id": "t1_oky05w2", "author": "/u/butlerdm", "updated": "2026-05-10T04:56:18+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/oky05w2/", "content": "It’s cope. You’re doing the right thing." }, { "id": "t1_oky1qkk", "author": "/u/ExistentialSushiRoll", "updated": "2026-05-10T05:08:22+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/oky1qkk/", "content": "life is for living" }, { "id": "t1_oky2v6b", "author": "/u/LaCarsa", "updated": "2026-05-10T05:17:24+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/oky2v6b/", "content": "I personally hold the view that you miss out on a lot of the ‘have fun, stuff up a few times and learn through trying’ stage in your 20s by living with your parents. I am by no means an advocate for slumming it pay cheque to pay cheque for the sake of experience, but you’re well and truely ready to launch into the real word my friend!" }, { "id": "t1_okya8aj", "author": "/u/Mt_Sol", "updated": "2026-05-10T06:20:42+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/okya8aj/", "content": "I think life in my 30s has been the most fun so far. I was earning well but not rich. I imagine you'll have more fun if you have such financial freedom. I think you have achieved something great but I wouldn't stay home forever." }, { "id": "t1_okyahyx", "author": "/u/-Debugging-Duck-", "updated": "2026-05-10T06:23:04+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/okyahyx/", "content": "Sounds like you have no wife and kids. Otherwise you’d understand why people love their own space.\n You’re also privileged. Not everyone has the same opportunity to live at home." }, { "id": "t1_okybbko", "author": "/u/vassant-blake", "updated": "2026-05-10T06:30:35+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/okybbko/", "content": "I have to say I’m recently removed from living with friends in a college house, and it was one of the most entertaining experiences I’ve ever had. I wouldn’t trade that away for an extra 15 K in savings.\n My friend from Europe has always told me you make money to spend it. Enough money can only do you so well, but how you use it can make or break a happy life." }, { "id": "t1_okyblby", "author": "/u/A_Lazy_Professor", "updated": "2026-05-10T06:33:00+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/okyblby/", "content": "I spent my 20s drinking, partying, travelling the world, and trying to hook up with a girl from every NATO country.\n Had $0 net worth at 30, absolutely worth it imo. But you do you." }, { "id": "t1_okybnjm", "author": "/u/seamusmaldoun", "updated": "2026-05-10T06:33:33+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/okybnjm/", "content": "Stacking cash is sick. Living ‘at home’ as a 29 yr old is not IMO, but to each their own.\n Maybe take into account that living ‘at home’ isn’t a viable option for a large swath of the population. But you do you and stack your bread if that’s your main goal.\n No ill will just different strokes for diff folks!" }, { "id": "t1_okysjjo", "author": "/u/Acennn", "updated": "2026-05-10T09:09:45+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/okysjjo/", "content": "Pretty cool man. I moved out got a good job had it since I was 21. I stacked cash for a long time with my ex girlfriend her mom helped pay for a lot. I Hot my first 100k at 24 and wondered whats the point ill never retire early so I began traveling a ton. I cant tell you how much money I've spent traveling been to several countries over the years. Covid hit and I went balls deep into games top and it worked out. House paid in cash I still got my good job. Im 29 now net worth maybe around 400k but sometimes I wonder what if I had just not done all that stuff and stacked. Again one trade off for another. Life is short and living a long time is not a guarantee and thats what I've lived by. Your killing bro keep doing what makes you happy." }, { "id": "t1_okz2j4g", "author": "/u/Jesus__Skywalker", "updated": "2026-05-10T10:40:58+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/okz2j4g/", "content": "You know I have serious regrets about not investing earlier in life. And I wish I could tell my younger self about the importance of doing so. And then I read this. And damn man. This is wild bc nothing has ever made me feel like I did the right things before. But this did. I didnt save the money i wanted to save. But i did party my ass off. I did have a ton of crazy ass things happen. I have had wild experiences that I never would have happened if I had just stayed home and saved money. But im crushing that now. Am I behind? Yeah I am. But I can make money. But I cant buy youth or memories. Luckily I spent that wisely by not being wise" }, { "id": "t1_okz8gar", "author": "/u/Capital_Artichoke529", "updated": "2026-05-10T11:28:09+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/okz8gar/", "content": "Los mejores años de mi vida fueron de los 23-29 años, cuando compartía piso con amigos. Ya se te habrían pasado. No pienses solo en dinero." }, { "id": "t1_okzhcln", "author": "/u/heavvyglow", "updated": "2026-05-10T12:29:34+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/okzhcln/", "content": "Damn could not imagine trading my 20s for 400k" }, { "id": "t1_okzlglz", "author": "/u/Crash_override87", "updated": "2026-05-10T12:54:54+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/okzlglz/", "content": "Everyone is different. It I could have stayed at home and stacked cash I’d be far better off financially now than I am. I was not built that way though i couldn’t wait to move out and did so at 18 years old. Never looked back. Wife and two kids now, small house. Not enough in savings but, I’m growing it. Financially I’m envious of you and part of me thinks it I could do it all again id do what you did but, I know myself as well and would have been miserable. If it works for you keep working it and enjoy the ride" }, { "id": "t1_okzmyjs", "author": "/u/Fjogaseri", "updated": "2026-05-10T13:03:42+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/okzmyjs/", "content": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/s/6zkRkrKK4y\n Same son?" }, { "id": "t1_okzoe4f", "author": "/u/Ok-Structure5637", "updated": "2026-05-10T13:11:54+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/okzoe4f/", "content": "My 20's so far have been a mix of wanting to blow it smooth off, join the military, or switching career paths after just finally getting a job in what I studied for. If ya'l are saying it doesn't get better than this..." }, { "id": "t1_okztmtp", "author": "/u/Background-Quail8556", "updated": "2026-05-10T13:41:25+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/okztmtp/", "content": "OP: you are doing the right thing. My 20s sucked. I had no money, was always either studying for college finals, the LSAT, law school exams and then the bar. Working for crap pay, thankless supervisors, etc.\n Bottom line: I had no money. Life was hard.\n And there is very little about my 20s that I miss.\n My late 30s are sooooo much better now that I have actual money ($1M+, where you will be in a few years.)\n I’m single, no kids and life is grand. I never worry about bills, can travel to anywhere on the planet I want and it’s nice to see the balance sheet I’ve worked so hard for now have a life of its own. “Oh, I made $130,000 by doing NOTHING? Sweet!”\n It is a privilege where monthly bills become noise and you can eat out at any restaurant without checking the bill.\n I’m pretty much winding down the accumulation phase and entering the optimization phase: preserve the base, invest modestly and don’t commit catastrophic errors.\n When most people start to realize they are behind on their savings, I can only imagine what my 40s and 50s will look like." }, { "id": "t1_okzuhyl", "author": "/u/storiesftunheard", "updated": "2026-05-10T13:46:03+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/okzuhyl/", "content": "If you're fine with it, good for you. But I couldn't live with my parents through my entire 20s. Having my own apartment and independence was worth more than saving money. And dating would be difficult if you have to ask your parents if you can bring a woman over or have her spend the night. I would feel like a child having to ask my parents for permission. But if you're fine with it, good for you." }, { "id": "t1_okzutf7", "author": "/u/253-build", "updated": "2026-05-10T13:47:42+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/okzutf7/", "content": "It really depends on what your relationship is like with your parents. My parents are in a perpetually strained marriage. I got tired of walking on eggshells and ignoring their fireworks arguments. Never any physical abuse, but screaming matches and silent treatmemt were constant. If you ever watched Seinfeld, the Costanzas on steroids.\n Several friends lived at home until their wedding... knowing their super-chill parents, I would have done the same thing. Not FIRE, just being financially prudent AND having great parents to live with. We would have study dates at their houses in college... their moms n dads would host dinner or cookies.\n So, which parents do you have? If you are in an unhealthy situation, leave, finances be damned." }, { "id": "t1_okzzke7", "author": "/u/AJimJimJim", "updated": "2026-05-10T14:12:33+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/okzzke7/", "content": "No mention of friends, social life, hobbies, partners, travel, etc. Hell, you didn't even mention if you like your own parents or are helping them out in any way. Just stacking cash and almost 30.\n That's what people are saying you will regret.\n ETA, having lived with my parents until I was 26, my favorite years of my life by far were college before I moved back and living with my gf/wife and ultimately kids after that. I had good friends and lots of fun times while living at home, no real issues with my parents. Looking back at that time I was stacking cash but really just spinning my wheels. If I had it to do over, I'd have moved to live with my GF years earlier while she was getting her master's in another state." }, { "id": "t1_ol014p6", "author": "/u/Okhiez", "updated": "2026-05-10T14:20:29+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/ol014p6/", "content": "It’s not a cope, but the situation you’re describing doesn’t really apply.\n You can enjoy your youth WHILE living with your parents. The two aren’t mutually exclusive." }, { "id": "t1_ol01hno", "author": "/u/juvy5000", "updated": "2026-05-10T14:22:21+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/ol01hno/", "content": "your existence sounds incredibly boring. way more to life than “stacking cash”" }, { "id": "t1_ol023tf", "author": "/u/Acceptable_Usual1646", "updated": "2026-05-10T14:25:29+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/ol023tf/", "content": "47 and I regret a lot but what I most regret is that I ran into an older man who was a homestay at 21 and traded my youth. Instead of traveling and making fun I just worked. Now I am 47, divorced, have the money but can’t travel and no fun because I have 3 kids to take care of." }, { "id": "t1_ol02hpv", "author": "/u/orionus", "updated": "2026-05-10T14:27:28+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/ol02hpv/", "content": "Reddit is generally subject to philosophical extremes.\n You'll get responses that you have to spend your 20s in pure hedonism, and that money doesn't matter when you're dead, etc.\n Then you'll get the folks who say eating out more than twice a year is horrific, and every penny has to be invested.\n At the end of the day, it's really a personal choice. Huge deaths of the population don't even get to make that choice - they'll work every day of their lives and try and find some time for themselves when they can.\n Personally, my parents both had severe health issues emerge in their 50s, and I can't risk the possibility that I'd live like a monk for 20 years only to never benefit from it. That said, I'm still making conscious choices to protect my retirement while living a lot more aggressively (from a financial perspective) than most redditors.\n There's only a right answer for you." }, { "id": "t1_ol02jjj", "author": "/u/Difficult-Amount988", "updated": "2026-05-10T14:27:44+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/ol02jjj/", "content": "If living with your parents doesn’t make life difficult and you are being prudent financially you are fine. If your 457/Roth is maxed every year as a young person this will put you miles ahead. That being said time moves quickly and our time is finite. You can for example travel internationally without blowing your wallet. You don’t need a lifted truck or a boat, but life experiences and a hobby can be irreplaceable for a quality life. I’d budget some $ every year for it, it wont set you back significantly. At some point we’re likely to see a market crash again, I bought my first house during the 08 crash for 65% of what it has sold for 4 years prior. Be liquid enough to take advantage of that. That will further cement you into long term stability." }, { "id": "t1_ol06h6e", "author": "/u/polar_nopposite", "updated": "2026-05-10T14:47:28+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/ol06h6e/", "content": "You're only young once\n I mean, it's just literally true. You should absolutely take advantage now of the things that are easier/more fun/possible while you're young that are less- and less-so as you age.\n For example, are you happy with where you are romantically? The dating pool only gets smaller as you age, and that's something where living with parents is usually a hindrance. And if you were to meet the right person and wound up living together, sharing living costs could go a long way to replacing what you gave up by moving out.\n If that isn't important to you though, or if you're already content with that aspect of life, it may be that continuing to live with parents is the right path for you.\n Do you yearn for more independence? Do you like the area and location where your parents live? Are you content with your social opportunities? Be honest about the drawbacks; most of them are intangible and hard to quantify." }, { "id": "t1_ol09wa8", "author": "/u/Equivalent-Room-8428", "updated": "2026-05-10T15:04:27+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/ol09wa8/", "content": "You are almost 30 and living at home still with $400k in the bank??? Dude, move out, grow up, be independent, pay bills like an adult. Your parents didn't sign up to support you for 30+ years. You aren't young anymore. This set up is great for you and your savings but not for your parents.\n Do you pay rent and any portion of the utilities? Do you shop and pay for your food? Cook? Clean? Do your own laundry? Or are your parents still doing everything for you?" }, { "id": "t1_ol0cwsv", "author": "/u/AZJHawk", "updated": "2026-05-10T15:19:15+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/ol0cwsv/", "content": "It isn’t how I would choose to live, but it’s certainly an option. I’d rather save $50k a year and actually live life beyond work and hanging out with my parents, rather than save $100k a year and do what you’re doing. But to each his own." }, { "id": "t1_ol0d3ax", "author": "/u/SkepticalCat1", "updated": "2026-05-10T15:20:08+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/ol0d3ax/", "content": "You could rent your own place and still save a boatload of money" }, { "id": "t1_ol0dbnz", "author": "/u/howardbagel", "updated": "2026-05-10T15:21:17+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/ol0dbnz/", "content": "what's the point of money without a life?" }, { "id": "t1_ol0do7s", "author": "/u/Able_Magazine_8150", "updated": "2026-05-10T15:22:59+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/ol0do7s/", "content": "Money may be able to buy happiness, but it can’t buy time or youth" }, { "id": "t1_ol0fina", "author": "/u/intricate_strands", "updated": "2026-05-10T15:32:02+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/ol0fina/", "content": "If you had the parents many other people have, I don't think you'd feel the same.\n Not shitting on you by any means, I'm actually stoked as hell for you. It just doesn't work that way for most people." }, { "id": "t1_ol0hr9v", "author": "/u/Time_Many6155", "updated": "2026-05-10T15:43:07+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/ol0hr9v/", "content": "I'm 64 with more $$ than I am ever likely to spend.. Also in great health so far and my Wife is the same. The only thing that you have on Earth is quality time. Now I have been super saver, so when I hit $1.3M at age 52 I quit the workforce.\n So yes I sacrificed some to be independent of my boss, but I also quit work 13 years early. its a gamble because you are trading "younger time for older time". But then, having no debt and not needing a job relatively young is pretty awesome." }, { "id": "t1_ol0i26o", "author": "/u/Solid-Silver-4747", "updated": "2026-05-10T15:44:37+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/ol0i26o/", "content": "If you're saving 100k a year living at home, wouldn't you be able to have an apartment and still save a decent amount? I only mention this because you stated that part of you regrets missing out on having a place away from parents. Money can always be earned but time is something you can never get back." }, { "id": "t1_ol0kbhz", "author": "/u/Aquitaine_Rover_3876", "updated": "2026-05-10T15:55:33+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/ol0kbhz/", "content": "Look, if it works for your family, this is fine. There's lots of reasons people don't want to keep living with their parents, and lots of parents who don't feel they should need to continue to pay for their kids once they're established in the workforce.\n But most importantly, stay aware that the costs you're saving are still being paid, just by your parents instead of you. How do they feel about your current situation?" }, { "id": "t1_ol0lg27", "author": "/u/WafflingToast", "updated": "2026-05-10T16:01:03+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/ol0lg27/", "content": "You’ve built a great safety net. Now it’s time to build the life you really want - is it your own family, a bachelor pad in NYC, a year abroad?\n What’s the point of FIRE if you’re not sure what you would be doing?" }, { "id": "t1_ol0qlhl", "author": "/u/henrymega", "updated": "2026-05-10T16:26:24+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/ol0qlhl/", "content": "Hi. Not sure if you’ll see this but I am in the same boat. I am 29 and have been saying so much since graduation. 6 months ago, I went through some experiences that have almost changed my entire view of life. I would trade so much to do my 20s all over again and find a better balance.\n I have traded my independence and almost freedom for so much. Growth, relationships, just being self driven. A lot of it I think back and regret now. I’m not sure if you feel the same way, but I have finally decided to pull the trigger and will truly move out in the coming months.\n I think no amount of money right now will “buy” back my time and regrets that I have in my early and mid 20s. I wish I could do it all over differently.. despite how much I have saved up. It feels all so meaningless." }, { "id": "t1_ol0qy5u", "author": "/u/bouldering_fan", "updated": "2026-05-10T16:28:06+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/ol0qy5u/", "content": "I mean depends how much you are contributing to the household. If next to nothing you are getting your early inheritance to get rich now. Neither right for wrong. Depends on your family dynamics." }, { "id": "t1_ol0xg03", "author": "/u/antifaptor1988", "updated": "2026-05-10T16:59:28+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/ol0xg03/", "content": "I could’ve stayed with my mom and dad rent free, but the dating market doesn’t vibe well with a man in his 30s still living at home. Also, you’re forgetting that those “people who are scrambling…” are not big monolith. There are people who have their life and career together and take advantage of living by themselves.\n Ultimately, only you can answer the question: “Am I happy with my current lifestyle?”. I wasn’t happy living at home. I remember having to do chores for my parents, buy their food and groceries, and overall having a feeling of missing out in my prime.\n I remember being on a date with a gorgeous woman and one of her first questions to me was my housing situation. It was really awkward saying I still lived with my parents in my 30s (despite the fact that I also saved massive amounts of money not paying rent)." }, { "id": "t1_ol0yhw9", "author": "/u/WanderingMind2432", "updated": "2026-05-10T17:04:27+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/ol0yhw9/", "content": "You could pay 20k in rent a year and not notice a dent. Idk why you are living with parents." }, { "id": "t1_ol0zzr3", "author": "/u/ShyyBurgundy", "updated": "2026-05-10T17:11:26+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/ol0zzr3/", "content": "How’s your dating life?" }, { "id": "t1_ol0zzx8", "author": "/u/tholmes4005", "updated": "2026-05-10T17:11:27+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/ol0zzx8/", "content": "Good for you and your parents. This was actually how a lot of the world still works and how the US used to work. I am in IT and work with a lot of Indians who describe how life for most of their family is living on a family "compound" and working for the family business/trade there entire lives, they grow up get married, build a house on the compound or move into an existing one and repeat. The family chooses who they will pay for college and if you don't get selected you stay and wirk. America was like this up until probably after WW2, then it was beaten into our heads we had to be on our own at 18.\n I think GenX was the last generation who was anywhere near ready to live on there own at 18 after that helicopter parenting took over and kids are just ready for it.\n I think, If possible, a part of being a parent is making sure your offspring is as successful as they can be. I myself wanted to GTFO as soon as I could from my parents house, but it significantly set me back financially vs staying at home and banking cash. Then buying a house with cash. Not having to deal with banks and lending and only spending cash vs CC or borrowing would have been awesome.\n I'm sure this is sexist, but it is the truth, if you are male, your 20's are really a tough time mentally. You are not successful, you have zero money, or know jack shit. Get to know who you are and how to be an adult male in the world. You shouldn't even consider settling down until at least 30 and have means to support a family and either you or your spouse can stay home with the kids until they are old enough to stay at home by themselves after school." }, { "id": "t1_ol13ani", "author": "/u/sluttyman69", "updated": "2026-05-10T17:26:40+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/ol13ani/", "content": "I started having children in my teens. I’ve raised 4 now I’m healthy adults all productive careers - 3 married - they’re all waiting to have kids, which unfortunately I believe means there will be no grandchildren" }, { "id": "t1_ol13oat", "author": "/u/Untitled_LP", "updated": "2026-05-10T17:28:20+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/ol13oat/", "content": "I would rather have half my net worth and have lived independently in my youth than have lived with my parents. And I have great parents too." }, { "id": "t1_ol15as7", "author": "/u/FluidFisherman6843", "updated": "2026-05-10T17:35:22+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/ol15as7/", "content": "Dependson your relationship with your parents. If they treat you like a roommate that has free rent, great enjoy it!\n If they treat you like a teenager and it keeps you from experiencing your young adulthood, you are losing out.\n I've seen both and would rather have to work a few more years than miss out on the fun I had in my 20s." }, { "id": "t1_ol1dvnm", "author": "/u/kev1059", "updated": "2026-05-10T18:13:53+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/ol1dvnm/", "content": "I'm sure your parents want you out of the house and to finally become a grown up" }, { "id": "t1_ol1dvqo", "author": "/u/parkchanwookiee", "updated": "2026-05-10T18:13:53+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/ol1dvqo/", "content": "You can afford to lose 1-2k a month on rent and increased spending, still be putting away like 80k a year which is SERIOUS numbers given your timeline to retirement, and actually enjoy your youth and freedom. I think you are being far too conservative and missing crucial life experiences - actually it's YOUR attitude that's "cope"" }, { "id": "t1_ol1k74e", "author": "/u/TheGaujo", "updated": "2026-05-10T18:44:19+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/ol1k74e/", "content": "You done good, now move out." }, { "id": "t1_ol26yxz", "author": "/u/neatneets", "updated": "2026-05-10T20:35:18+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/ol26yxz/", "content": "Well I want to move to a nice house. I don’t have enough for that yet." }, { "id": "t1_ol1rb3c", "author": "/u/Impossible-Trip-4749", "updated": "2026-05-10T19:18:53+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/ol1rb3c/", "content": "When you’re older, I bet you’d trade all that money to have your time/youth back" }, { "id": "t1_ol26enu", "author": "/u/neatneets", "updated": "2026-05-10T20:32:31+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/ol26enu/", "content": "Tbh idk if I would" }, { "id": "t1_ol1vjze", "author": "/u/Obvious-Adeptness-46", "updated": "2026-05-10T19:39:12+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/ol1vjze/", "content": "All depends on how stable your life is with your parents. I can't live with my parents anymore, I'd go crazy and would hate my life." }, { "id": "t1_ol1wgx6", "author": "/u/alkiet", "updated": "2026-05-10T19:43:39+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/ol1wgx6/", "content": "Hey, if you got a good relationship with your parents ... life is short, you never know when time with your loved ones is up, if they're happy or content with your presence then why t.f not!?" }, { "id": "t1_ol1xrck", "author": "/u/OliveGarden_Official", "updated": "2026-05-10T19:49:56+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/ol1xrck/", "content": "Food for thought, you can address this the same way you’re addressing FIRE. Figure out your monthly budget, allocate a certain amount to hobbies, social, etc. and try to hit that spending as part of your goals. Since it’s “in the plan,” you don’t have to feel guilty about having a dinner with friends or going on the coffee date you would have skipped otherwise.\n Everyone’s priorities are different, and you might be totally content staying at home now knowing that it’s insulating you from the future. Just try to reflect on what you’d be want to do post-RE and try to do an hour of that each day, even if it costs you the 10% extra a month.\n I would say living away from home is a huge lesson in self discipline and all the good that comes with independence. If you’re not fulfilling that in other parts of your life, you should figure out where to get it from." }, { "id": "t1_ol22rtf", "author": "/u/Curious-Zucchini763", "updated": "2026-05-10T20:14:36+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/ol22rtf/", "content": "It is never too late to have a have a happy childhood.\n But it may be too expensive or physically impossible or any other myriad of reasons. Some people live at home and can barely feed themselves. You are lucky. What are you doing with your luck?" }, { "id": "t1_ol236sq", "author": "/u/TempDong", "updated": "2026-05-10T20:16:38+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/ol236sq/", "content": "As with basically everything in life, it's just about personal preference + healthy balance.\n Living at home in a VHCOL city with a good salary means you can reach CoastFIRE by 30. $500K invested by 30 becomes $2.7 mil by 55 at 7% return. Trading away "living alone in your 20s" for "I technically never have invest another dollar" is a very good deal in my opinion.\n If you have great parents and a good salary, it isn't much of a sacrifice as long as you aren't a loser. You're dating life takes a hit, but as long as you are social, active, and spend some money on fun experiences then your life isn't much different than someone living in an apartment. I think a lot of the initial reaction to it is caused by basement dwellers NEETs or people with terrible parents they can't wait to get away from." }, { "id": "t1_ol23xgs", "author": "/u/blasbido", "updated": "2026-05-10T20:20:16+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/ol23xgs/", "content": "If it's not hurting your mental health, you're able to live like any other adult, and it doesn't hinder your life goals (commonly is dating to find a partner), I think it's fine. Otherwise, you should venture out on your own before it's too late." }, { "id": "t1_ol25xfq", "author": "/u/Ok_Confection622", "updated": "2026-05-10T20:30:09+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/ol25xfq/", "content": "Honestly. This post reads like a cope" }, { "id": "t1_ol2dj0j", "author": "/u/dhu_gsrikbuty", "updated": "2026-05-10T21:08:19+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/ol2dj0j/", "content": "I hope your parents are really proud to raise a whole life dependent free-loader.\n Get out of the home and you will realize not everyone has this free loading opportunities even sometimes from their late teenage." }, { "id": "t1_ol2nt90", "author": "/u/Superb_Scientist1033", "updated": "2026-05-10T22:03:02+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/ol2nt90/", "content": "Bring the baddies to the cri to do the grownup thang and have Ma make them breakfast in the morning" }, { "id": "t1_ol2p7s9", "author": "/u/djchalkybeats", "updated": "2026-05-10T22:11:12+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/ol2p7s9/", "content": "In most cultures, living with your parents in a multi-generational household is/was the norm. At least up until recently. If you're happy and the lack of financial stress is worth your while, then enjoy that more family-centric version of life! I know I miss my parents that I moved away from, and now that I have a kid I want those parents back in my neighborhood, if at all possible. #happymothersday" }, { "id": "t1_ol2rr4m", "author": "/u/OrdnanceTV", "updated": "2026-05-10T22:26:05+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/ol2rr4m/", "content": "I'm the opposite. Moved out at 20 and have lived all over the US with and without live-in girlfriends, and have spent probably ~$350k in rent in the past 15 years. Now in my mid-30s and only just beginning to save money with a roommate, but my girlfriend is basically about to break up with me for it. Go figure. It's not a problem til it's a problem. If I could go back, I'd rather live closer to my folks and regret not "living it up" but be well off, than "live it up" and be much less financially well off in my mid-30s." }, { "id": "t1_ol2slf7", "author": "/u/1290_money", "updated": "2026-05-10T22:31:05+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/ol2slf7/", "content": "Saving money is the most fruitless endeavor.\n Life is about balance. You're doing too much saving. Save less live more." }, { "id": "t1_ol2u2ns", "author": "/u/Desperate-Point-9988", "updated": "2026-05-10T22:39:58+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/ol2u2ns/", "content": "No. Would give all the financial "security" up to go back to my mid 20s in a heartbeat." }, { "id": "t1_ol2w0xs", "author": "/u/lastburnerever", "updated": "2026-05-10T22:51:37+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/ol2w0xs/", "content": "I live at home. Doesn't everyone who isn't homeless. Isn't the definition of home the place you live?" }, { "id": "t1_ol36ku5", "author": "/u/Outside_Purple_6610", "updated": "2026-05-10T23:54:25+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/ol36ku5/", "content": "Not all of us had the option to stay at home past 18. I would have been a millionaire by now if that was an option for me." }, { "id": "t1_ol3hoe6", "author": "/u/Ill_Gene_9482", "updated": "2026-05-11T01:00:18+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/ol3hoe6/", "content": "I love my parents but I would have murdered them or they would have murdered me if I stayed that long" }, { "id": "t1_ol3l7vi", "author": "/u/Secure_Mess_712", "updated": "2026-05-11T01:21:24+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/ol3l7vi/", "content": "Like others said, your decision if what you're doing is right or wrong.\n Just know that there's more to life than money." }, { "id": "t1_ol3lpkj", "author": "/u/idkman99999999", "updated": "2026-05-11T01:24:23+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/ol3lpkj/", "content": "Lmfao dude is literally throwing away core experiences.\n Going out with roommates, hosting parties, some of the best times of my life were in my 20s living with roommates or alone.\n But yeah it’s “cope” lol" }, { "id": "t1_ol3mdk4", "author": "/u/bigbrownhusky", "updated": "2026-05-11T01:28:36+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/ol3mdk4/", "content": "“You’re only young once” is an objectively true fact. Do what you wish with that information" }, { "id": "t1_ol3qdwq", "author": "/u/Traditional_Food9436", "updated": "2026-05-11T01:53:16+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/ol3qdwq/", "content": "I did this after graduating. Moved back in with my parents, worked, bought 2 townhomes and rented the out before buying a first home to live in. While young I used cc points to stay at hotels when wanting a night out. Imo it’s worth missing out on paying someone else’s mortgage." }, { "id": "t1_ol3t1y5", "author": "/u/BlackTransMaam2", "updated": "2026-05-11T02:09:25+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/ol3t1y5/", "content": "There's definitely phases that become closed to you the older you get. Clubs, hostels, living with friends... Plenty of things that were cool and acceptable at 22 are cringy and downright frowned upon in your 30s and beyond. You don't need to do everything when you're young, but you ain't backpacking across Vietnam at 52 getting the same experience a 21 year old would have." }, { "id": "t1_ol3vdw2", "author": "/u/DakotaColorado", "updated": "2026-05-11T02:23:29+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/ol3vdw2/", "content": "This is lame - living at home with your parents at 30? Go get a 1BR apt and give your parents some space." }, { "id": "t1_ol3xkwx", "author": "/u/Thornediscount", "updated": "2026-05-11T02:37:09+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/ol3xkwx/", "content": "You arnt young anymore bud" }, { "id": "t1_ol404n2", "author": "/u/Mundane_Poem_9288", "updated": "2026-05-11T02:53:49+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/ol404n2/", "content": "I love my parents and would have loved to stayed longer with them. I wouldn’t leave just for the sake of leaving. Unless you have a wife/husband, I personally would just stay put. Maybe help your parents out with the bills to show gratitude though." }, { "id": "t1_ol44rwy", "author": "/u/Barista_life__", "updated": "2026-05-11T03:25:49+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/ol44rwy/", "content": "That’s great that you’re CoastFI now … but, as a 27 year old myself, this is a huge dating red flag. If I met someone who had that much money saved up, I’d have tons of questions about why you still live there, and very few answers will turn the red flag green. 9 times out of 10, I would pass on a relationship after finding this out" }, { "id": "t1_ol44ytp", "author": "/u/Single-Degree-6928", "updated": "2026-05-11T03:27:10+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/ol44ytp/", "content": "How do your parents feel about it? Most American parents, anyway, want you out by 25 at the latest. An older male child still living at home still has a stigma attached to it. Do your parents feel like failures because you are still there? Is your presence hindering them from enjoying their older years? Or are you from a culture in which older sons staying at home is acceptable? I always wonder, when reading posts like this, why the parents' point of view isn't even mentioned by the OP. Selfishness? Entitlement? Or just modern life?" }, { "id": "t1_ol4br9m", "author": "/u/dope_as_the_pope", "updated": "2026-05-11T04:16:28+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/ol4br9m/", "content": "Something I never see asked or answered in these threads is: do your parents actually want their adult child living in their house with them indefinitely?" }, { "id": "t1_ol4cbk5", "author": "/u/broSKI_808", "updated": "2026-05-11T04:20:40+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/ol4cbk5/", "content": "Virgin?" }, { "id": "t1_ol4hc7d", "author": "/u/middlemandad", "updated": "2026-05-11T04:59:47+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/ol4hc7d/", "content": "What about when taking home a partner?" }, { "id": "t1_ol4hz1g", "author": "/u/theotisfinklestein", "updated": "2026-05-11T05:04:53+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/ol4hz1g/", "content": "He can afford a hotel." }, { "id": "t1_ol4o18n", "author": "/u/dddd11122233", "updated": "2026-05-11T05:54:59+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/ol4o18n/", "content": "As noted, it depends what you want out of life. I wouldn’t trade all my experiences in my 20s, out on my own, learning how to pay bills and apply for apartments, all the struggles and barely getting by. That’s what made me appreciate where I am today. If I would’ve just stayed at my mom’s house until I was 30 I would’ve missed out on much of the learning experiences of life. The extra money would probably feel empty because I wouldn’t really realize what it took to achieve it. I wouldn’t trade it doing it my way, but it would’ve been nice to do it my way with a lot more money to save." }, { "id": "t1_ol5tjpf", "author": "/u/ifeelbad114", "updated": "2026-05-11T11:40:46+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/ol5tjpf/", "content": "I am happy for you. My life has been really tough, and I plan on convincing my son to stay with me until he can buy a house outright, and maybe longer. It is so important!" }, { "id": "t1_ol6lppc", "author": "/u/Just_A_Student7760", "updated": "2026-05-11T14:14:20+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/ol6lppc/", "content": "ITT: People with poor parents coping and acting like crabs in a bucket.\n Keep doing what you are doing and stack that dough." }, { "id": "t1_ol6sj5z", "author": "/u/InterestOverall2539", "updated": "2026-05-11T14:46:30+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/ol6sj5z/", "content": "Good for you! Hopefully you are helping your parents with groceries, internet and computer help if needed, and utilities/cable bills. Even if not asked to. An employed thoughtful family member is a wonderful roommate. Also hoping you occasionally give them an envelope of “fun money”." }, { "id": "t1_ol9o9pi", "author": "/u/Known-Importance-568", "updated": "2026-05-11T22:49:56+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/ol9o9pi/", "content": "I'm with you OP and saving similar. Almost every comment on these type of posts mentions missing out of life in some form but I honestly can't relate.\n I think it works really well for simple people and a lot worse for the opposite. I can say truthfully for myself, moving out would not have given me any different experience of life because I spend most of my time working, gymming or playing sports. None of that would change by moving out." }, { "id": "t1_ola2epk", "author": "/u/One_Distance_5351", "updated": "2026-05-12T00:10:48+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/ola2epk/", "content": "Looking back on my 20s none of it was that worth it honestly - but you don’t really know until you do it if that makes sense.\n Most peoples “you are only young once” years are filled with drinking, broken relationships, and going out.\n Looking back I wish I took the conservative path." }, { "id": "t1_olaejqq", "author": "/u/trashbuckey", "updated": "2026-05-12T01:21:02+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/olaejqq/", "content": "Money is everything" }, { "id": "t1_olahqav", "author": "/u/No_Resolution_9252", "updated": "2026-05-12T01:39:46+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/olahqav/", "content": "You are sacrificing having a life for a narrow view of financial stability. And I have news for you, a million dollars at 31 is not even close to being enough to stop working." }, { "id": "t1_olclml4", "author": "/u/OddTap1778", "updated": "2026-05-12T11:10:34+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/olclml4/", "content": "I love my parents to death, but I’d be homeless before I moved back in with them." }, { "id": "t1_old4166", "author": "/u/Cinereals", "updated": "2026-05-12T12:58:30+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/old4166/", "content": "Well nobody is guaranteed an old age, so the adage is correct." }, { "id": "t1_oldhykr", "author": "/u/Strazdas1", "updated": "2026-05-12T14:07:45+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/oldhykr/", "content": "Your health will deteriorate with age. It is unescapable. However i am of the opinion that it is better to work while you are young and then have the ability to deal with that deteriorated health without stressing about your finances.\n You can also use a counterargument: youth is wasted on the young." }, { "id": "t1_oldpxk3", "author": "/u/WayyBiggerJaws", "updated": "2026-05-12T14:44:16+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/oldpxk3/", "content": "It depends, personally sure it having a boss would be great but I’d rather have fun in my 20s. At 40 when everyone is working and living relatively boring lives I’d be more comfortable doing the same.\n The trips with friends, relationships and fun experiences are all worth it now because chances are at 40 I won’t be able to get all my best friends together and travel multiple times a year. I also work in healthcare and regular see 30 year olds and up who are in pretty miserable states and can’t enjoy life like most. So I try to enjoy my times while I can." }, { "id": "t1_oky4itx", "author": "/u/BackgroundAfter2179", "updated": "2026-05-10T05:31:11+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/oky4itx/", "content": "I would not care about ‘having a place away from your parents’. I would only care about if you are living in a supportive environment. Like is it serving your wellbeing and your goals in life. you can easily find a (modest) place that makes sense financially but I feel like this question arises because of societal norms, not because living alone would greatly change or improve your life even even if there was no financial loss. So yes mostly a cope…" }, { "id": "t1_oky72zp", "author": "/u/Logical_Lie6478", "updated": "2026-05-10T05:53:07+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/oky72zp/", "content": "As long as you are not like my r*tard neighbor who mid-20s lives with his mommy and drives a loud ass truck that wakes us constantly\n I guess live long and prosper? You may be kind of a chud tho idk" }, { "id": "t1_okyb4ih", "author": "/u/Emergency_Rooster664", "updated": "2026-05-10T06:28:47+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/okyb4ih/", "content": "Now the play is to get a significant other who is cool with staying at your parents place." }, { "id": "t1_okybyk8", "author": "/u/BigCheapass", "updated": "2026-05-10T06:36:18+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/okybyk8/", "content": "To some degree yes, it's easier to rationalize than it is to change.\n But there's also a lot of middle ground between them saving 0$ and you saving 100k/year, regardless of whether or not you live with your parents. Enjoying life and saving a lot of money aren't mutually exclusive.\n I moved out at 21 and still ended up saving 50 to 80% of my income all throughout my 20s. Moved in with my gf (now wife) at 25, and now have over 1M$ at 32. Most of my peers (even the ones that did live at home for most of their 20s) didn't save much, I wouldn't say that I enjoyed life less by saving more.\n You could probably move out and still save more than 99% of people if thats your goal. If you enjoy living at home, keep doing that, don't let other people dictate what you do. If you think you would enjoy life more moving out, do that. You can still prioritize saving.\n Its all about finding the right balance." }, { "id": "t1_okyct5t", "author": "/u/Exclave4Ever", "updated": "2026-05-10T06:43:56+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/okyct5t/", "content": "I would also like to add that in my opinion it's a far stretch to claim that you have achieved fire given the circumstances and all of the gaps that are being filled by someone else\n Meaning if your safety net disappeared tomorrow would you still be financially independent? Considering the fact that you're obviously not independent as it stands..." }, { "id": "t1_okyctsg", "author": "/u/Bright_Meat820", "updated": "2026-05-10T06:44:06+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/okyctsg/", "content": "Stay at home until your finances let your job become the career you choose based on what you truly like applying yourself to. Don’t listen to anyone that doesn’t have this option if they want to give advice.\n Congratulations on the saving and savvy financial planning." }, { "id": "t1_okyg8rj", "author": "/u/junker_strange", "updated": "2026-05-10T07:14:55+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/okyg8rj/", "content": "So you got a financial head start. Now move in to your own place before thirty. Doesnt matter what it is. Learn to live your own while still having the security net of your parents. Then you will be ready, for all practical purposes, when they are not or when you meet your spouse. But get out now." }, { "id": "t1_okygtee", "author": "/u/SundaeFundae-22", "updated": "2026-05-10T07:20:12+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/okygtee/", "content": "I lived at home when I was like 22-24. It allowed me to pay off my student loans (I’m sure it wasn’t exactly the right financial move but for me, getting that weight off my shoulders was priceless). I moved into an apartment in the city after that, and I remember very quickly feeling that my adult life was only just starting at that point. I was able to start dating more seriously, I made new friends, I grew in so many ways. It made me wish I would have done it sooner but I tried to remind myself that living at home served a purpose.\n I would say to set a goal for yourself (IMO you’re well past a reasonable goal, but maybe you want more) and then move out when you hit it." }, { "id": "t1_okyjmpf", "author": "/u/BroKComputer", "updated": "2026-05-10T07:46:09+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/okyjmpf/", "content": "Really depends on your relationship with your parents - and if your managing to have fun out and about. You can also afford to take a sweet vacation once a year." }, { "id": "t1_okyk8n9", "author": "/u/outrageousreadit", "updated": "2026-05-10T07:51:45+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/okyk8n9/", "content": "Living with your folks is not a privilege or luxury everyone has the blessing of.\n That said, do look for an opportunity to move out to be on your own. The freedom, the privacy, the ownership of your own space, there’s nothing like it." }, { "id": "t1_okyklje", "author": "/u/Everythinghastags", "updated": "2026-05-10T07:55:03+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/okyklje/", "content": "You can enjoy your 30s same as your 20s its just more effort. Its easier when you took care of your health and have money" }, { "id": "t1_okyoyoe", "author": "/u/Gold_Pop_5632", "updated": "2026-05-10T08:35:55+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/okyoyoe/", "content": "What’s the problem of living with the parents ? I live in an expensive region and children are moving from home late. It’s not a shame if you have a good relationship with your parents and the house is big enough.\n Enjoy the time with your parents while they are still there !" }, { "id": "t1_okyre3x", "author": "/u/HMonster224", "updated": "2026-05-10T08:58:49+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/okyre3x/", "content": ""And pay whatever other bills they are stuck with"...\n Does this imply that you are not paying any bills at your parents' house and that's why you aren't sure what bills other people have to pay regularly? If you can't even imagine the list of expenses you will eventually have to deal with when you do move out on your own, that seems like a problem. Electricity bills are HUGE if you live in an area that requires running the AC a lot. Water bill, gas bill (if applicable), groceries, home insurance, car insurance... it all adds up. Not to mention internet, cell phone (are you on a family plan that they pay for?), streaming services (obviously a non-nececcity, but I assume they have some that you get to use), the list goes on...\n It's very generous of your parents to allow you to live at home rent-free, but it's also not really setting you up to live on your own successfully, IMHO. Saving $100k / year is amazing, but I do think you should insist on paying at least SOMETHING to your parents each month, just on principle. If you make that much, you can definitely afford it and it's just the right thing to do. Seems like you could find a happy medium where you are acting as a contributing member of the household if you are going to continue to accept your parents' generous support.\n Separately, are you dating / trying to date / interested in ever getting married (with or without the intention to have kids)? Living at home could be somewhat of a turn-off to a potential romantic interest. Maybe not, but it's something to consider.\n Congratulations on your savings - you are in an excellent financial position going into your 30s and should easily be able to retire early or achieve other goals that you may not even have thought about at this point." }, { "id": "t1_okyt33o", "author": "/u/Parakiet20", "updated": "2026-05-10T09:14:53+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/okyt33o/", "content": "Until you take someone out to your parents place at 29" }, { "id": "t1_okyw7f8", "author": "/u/firstapex88", "updated": "2026-05-10T09:44:27+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/okyw7f8/", "content": "If you’re saving $100k a year you’re definitely missing out by living at home. You could be living on your own and still save $70-80k a year. You’re basically sacrificing the best part of your independent life (before you have a family) for $20k a year. That’s money you’re not gonna miss in 20 years but you’ll always question what you could have experienced." }, { "id": "t1_okz02oe", "author": "/u/Most-Square-8259", "updated": "2026-05-10T10:19:28+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/okz02oe/", "content": "Depends on the person. I'm also 29 and living with my partner is the most important thing in the world to me." }, { "id": "t1_okz78hd", "author": "/u/bb0110", "updated": "2026-05-10T11:18:55+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/okz78hd/", "content": "Some of the most fun times of my life were in my 20s while “struggling” financially. That time of your life can’t be reproduced even if you wanted to in the future. Live a little and don’t let financial insecurity drive your decision making process especially when young." }, { "id": "t1_okz829f", "author": "/u/ObservantWon", "updated": "2026-05-10T11:25:15+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/okz829f/", "content": "Stay in shape and eat healthy, so you still feel as young and spry as possible for when you travel and do the things you have wanted to do." }, { "id": "t1_okz851m", "author": "/u/LabOwn9800", "updated": "2026-05-10T11:25:49+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/okz851m/", "content": "There’s nothing wrong with how you live(d). At the same time there’s nothing wrong with how your coworkers lived as well so please don’t look down on them for having kids to support just like they shouldn’t look down at you for living at home.\n We each have our own path and none of them are wrong." }, { "id": "t1_okz8buj", "author": "/u/ditchdiggergirl", "updated": "2026-05-10T11:27:13+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/okz8buj/", "content": "It’s fine to live with your parents as long as it works for you. Young, middle aged, or old. You’re only young once means don’t deprive yourself of the experiences that only really work in your youth." }, { "id": "t1_okz90xm", "author": "/u/Fed_worker", "updated": "2026-05-10T11:32:31+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/okz90xm/", "content": "you can’t buy time" }, { "id": "t1_okz9h27", "author": "/u/TastyTittie", "updated": "2026-05-10T11:35:56+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/okz9h27/", "content": "Did you just recently start saving?" }, { "id": "t1_okzatrm", "author": "", "updated": "2026-05-10T11:45:45+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/okzatrm/", "content": "[deleted]" }, { "id": "t1_okzbo5t", "author": "", "updated": "2026-05-10T11:51:42+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/okzbo5t/", "content": "[deleted]" }, { "id": "t1_okzbv3s", "author": "/u/Maintenancemedic", "updated": "2026-05-10T11:53:02+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/okzbv3s/", "content": "If you think you can retire off 1m, you’re way wrong dude" }, { "id": "t1_okzc1y2", "author": "/u/vinean", "updated": "2026-05-10T11:54:20+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/okzc1y2/", "content": "It’s not a cope…some experiences are just easier in your 20s than your 30s because you’re in the same life stage as friends to do stuff with.\n Living at home is not the issue. It’s what you are doing while you live at home. If all you’re doing is “chilling and stacking cash” then thats trading life for money. On the other hand if you have friends and travel and having fun while living at home thats cool.\n At 29 folks are starting to get married and settle down. They’ve had enough relationships and life experiences to want to do that. If your friend circle is moving into that stage of life and if you aren’t in the same stage it’s easier to lose touch.\n Calling it “cope” indicates to me that you aren’t living a very fulfilling life and you know that.\n As a parent of 20 year olds they are welcome to stay if and only if they are still growing financially and emotionally. Otherwise I’m just enabling stagnation and stunting important aspects of their future. We can push them towards independence, financial health and provide shielding from external financial disaster whether they live at home or live with roommates as a 20something.\n Even as introverts, or maybe especially as introverts, living with roommates is a useful life experience in your early 20s.\n TL; DR: Not a cope. At 60 this year I’d trade a fuckton of money to be 20 again and it’s not because I didn’t have a fulfilling life or I’m not having fun today or that I have any huge regrets…its just a hugely awesome period where the horizons are wide open and the future possibilities seemingly endless.\n On the flip side, I wouldn’t trade where and who I am today for a fuckton of money either if it meant having an empty life vs the life experiences I’ve had." }, { "id": "t1_okzc2t4", "author": "/u/AdRich9524", "updated": "2026-05-10T11:54:31+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/okzc2t4/", "content": "Sounds like you are comparing yourself to others." }, { "id": "t1_okzcewc", "author": "/u/Fantastic_Composer57", "updated": "2026-05-10T11:56:48+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/okzcewc/", "content": "Money isn’t everything, you should have some other meaningful personal goals besides retirement at your age." }, { "id": "t1_okzcir0", "author": "/u/bananabastard", "updated": "2026-05-10T11:57:31+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/okzcir0/", "content": "I'm 44 and I miss my wild party days of my 20s. I don't want to do it now, though, but I miss wanting to do it. And I miss the opportunity to do it. I'm glad I have those times to remember. But if I hadn't done it, then I suppose I'd have no memories of it to miss." }, { "id": "t1_okzcnmy", "author": "/u/MKD8595", "updated": "2026-05-10T11:58:26+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/okzcnmy/", "content": "Reading this is kinda sad.\n Like cool you’re financially set but like… yeah. You do you." }, { "id": "t1_okzcsk6", "author": "/u/PerceptionSome5094", "updated": "2026-05-10T11:59:23+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/okzcsk6/", "content": "I’m at about 620ish k NW and 32. I live in a VHCOL city, have a dog, single, and rent my own apartment. I also financially support a parent.\n I think you can save aggressively and still have independence!! Sure, saving money is amazing (oh where would I be if I didn’t spend $$$ on rent every month!) but I’m grateful for where I am. To each their own. But yes, IMO, one day when you’re married with a partner - you may regret not having experienced living in your own place, etc. I myself couldn’t imagine living at home the past several years." }, { "id": "t1_okzcxih", "author": "/u/Apprehensive_Phase_3", "updated": "2026-05-10T12:00:19+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/okzcxih/", "content": "Hey mate, from experience I just wanted to say that in my 20s I thought the same. That I could trick the system saving while living at my parents. The reality is that now at 45 and with the money I saved I could buy the same house that at 25 with the money I had back them. I feel that I've been working and saving for nothing and additionally I didnt have my own place during my best years. Moreover, friends that did not save but bought a couple of flats have more net worth than me right now." }, { "id": "t1_okzdbhd", "author": "/u/RealSeat2142", "updated": "2026-05-10T12:02:56+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/okzdbhd/", "content": "Sounds like you’re afraid to grow up. If you are saving $100k a year and have $400k you should be on your own. Your parents should kick you out. It’s not just about living the wild life and stuff. It’s a learning experience that sets a foundation for your entire life. You will learn more from the mistakes of your 20s than any college can teach you. And mistakes in your 20s are almost always recoverable." }, { "id": "t1_okzdbtm", "author": "/u/_Mulberry__", "updated": "2026-05-10T12:03:00+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/okzdbtm/", "content": "It's culturally normal in many countries to just continue living with your parents until you need your own place (i.e. you get married or sometimes even later than that like when you have a kid). It's a smart financial decision, as long as your parents aren't maniacs that make you spend all your savings on therapy or something.\n "You're only young once" is just a phrase to validate dumb decisions or excessive expenses. You could respond with, "I know, I'm making the most of it by growing my wealth"" }, { "id": "t1_okzds43", "author": "/u/DollFinPoorPiss", "updated": "2026-05-10T12:06:06+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/okzds43/", "content": "Living at home til I’m 30 and not even having 500 saved would definitely not be worth it to me. My 20’s experiences could never have happened at home and they were worth a couple million." }, { "id": "t1_okze333", "author": "/u/lseraehwcaism", "updated": "2026-05-10T12:08:09+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/okze333/", "content": "What financial disaster? You’re saving over $100k per year." }, { "id": "t1_okzeq1h", "author": "/u/Firm_Mycologist9319", "updated": "2026-05-10T12:12:23+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/okzeq1h/", "content": "You do you, but many people will consider 29, living at home, stacking cash to be the real cope. A third of your life is gone, and you are still living at home stacking cash. What do you really want to do with your life? Be careful that you don’t get so wrapped up in the numbers part of FIRE that you forget about the reason you are doing it—independence." }, { "id": "t1_okzf0ei", "author": "/u/MaxwellSmart07", "updated": "2026-05-10T12:14:18+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/okzf0ei/", "content": "It’s a truism. Thinking you can get back those years is fallacious." }, { "id": "t1_okzfnro", "author": "/u/Dry_Try_6047", "updated": "2026-05-10T12:18:34+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/okzfnro/", "content": "Sorry OP, everyone is beating around the bush, I'm not. This is FIRE, and you're completely missing the financially independent part. Living off your parents at 29 is not financial independence, you're completely dependent.\n Move your bum ass out of your parents house, it is WELL past time. It's time to be am adult. Your parents are doing you a massive disservice by allowing this." }, { "id": "t1_okzfw2z", "author": "/u/wearealllegends", "updated": "2026-05-10T12:20:04+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/okzfw2z/", "content": "We all have to make sacrifices, choose wisely" }, { "id": "t1_okzgq92", "author": "/u/Acceptable-Leek1546", "updated": "2026-05-10T12:25:34+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/okzgq92/", "content": "You should absolutely feel regretful to some degree. Sure, you’ve stacked some cash, but your 20s are gone and you still live at your parents. That’s not inherently a bad thing, but you can afford to move out and grow.\n The independence and freedom you gain will teach you a lot about yourself. I’d much rather have that independence and life on my own than $400k. You can also invest heavily while paying a rent or mortgage. It doesn’t have to be one or the other." }, { "id": "t1_okzhsui", "author": "/u/Unusual-Courage-6228", "updated": "2026-05-10T12:32:28+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/okzhsui/", "content": "A different type of growth happens when you move out of your parent’s home. Do whatever works for you! I’m also 29 and moved out at 18. Went to college ($30k student loans, paid off), paid off 3 cars, got married, bought 3 houses, sold 1 home. We will become millionaires in the next few months (as long as the market doesn’t tank lol). All this to say, you can also move out and still stack cash and maybe your life will grow in other valuable ways too" }, { "id": "t1_okziddh", "author": "/u/Mundane_Knee_8034", "updated": "2026-05-10T12:36:05+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t8wz4i/is_youre_only_young_once_a_cope_im_living_at_home/okziddh/", "content": "I wouldn’t be the same person I am today without the struggles of living alone earlier in my life. I wouldn’t trade the experiences for any amount of wealth now." } ] }, { "source": "r/Fire top month", "id": "t3_1t5hydl", "title": "The isolation of early retirement at 36 is a total mindfuck", "author": "/u/RiftJukebox", "updated": "2026-05-06T16:29:01+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/", "content": "The weirdest part of hitting your numbers early isn't the bank balance, it is the silence. I am 36, I pulled the trigger about eight months ago after a decade of grinding in backend dev and living like a monk. I thought I was ready for the freedom but I forgot that the rest of the world still operates on a 9 to 5 grind. All my friends are currently in the peak of their careers, getting promoted, complaining about managers, or stressing over Q4 targets. When I try to grab a beer or even just jump on Discord for some gaming on a Tuesday afternoon, the silence is deafening .\n I found myself sitting at a local coffee shop yesterday just watching people rush around with their laptops. I felt like a ghost. I have all this time to finally work on my own projects or hike, but doing everything solo gets old fast. It turns out that when you remove the shared trauma of a workplace, you lose the primary tether to your social circle. My friends still invite me to stuff on weekends, but I can tell there is a growing disconnect. They are exhausted from the week and want to vent about work, and I have literally nothing to contribute to that conversation anymore. I am just the guy who stayed home and watched the market fluctuate.\n I even tried joining some local hobby groups, but it is mostly retirees who are twenty years older than me. We have nothing in common besides having free time. They want to talk about their grandkids or hip replacements, and I am just trying to find someone who wants to go on a random road trip on a Wednesday morning. It is a strange type of isolation where you have won the game but there is no one left on the server to play with. I am not going back to work, obviously, but I did not realize how much of my identity was tied to being busy.\n The irony is that I spent years dreaming of this exact scenario. Now that I am here, I spend half my day just trying to look busy so I dont feel like a total loser while the neighbors head out to their cars at 8 AM. I guess I need to find a new tribe of people who aren't tethered to a desk, but that is easier said than done when most people my age are still decades away from the finish line .\n submitted by /u/RiftJukebox\n [link] [comments]", "contentHtml": "

The weirdest part of hitting your numbers early isn't the bank balance, it is the silence. I am 36, I pulled the trigger about eight months ago after a decade of grinding in backend dev and living like a monk. I thought I was ready for the freedom but I forgot that the rest of the world still operates on a 9 to 5 grind. All my friends are currently in the peak of their careers, getting promoted, complaining about managers, or stressing over Q4 targets. When I try to grab a beer or even just jump on Discord for some gaming on a Tuesday afternoon, the silence is deafening .

I found myself sitting at a local coffee shop yesterday just watching people rush around with their laptops. I felt like a ghost. I have all this time to finally work on my own projects or hike, but doing everything solo gets old fast. It turns out that when you remove the shared trauma of a workplace, you lose the primary tether to your social circle. My friends still invite me to stuff on weekends, but I can tell there is a growing disconnect. They are exhausted from the week and want to vent about work, and I have literally nothing to contribute to that conversation anymore. I am just the guy who stayed home and watched the market fluctuate.

I even tried joining some local hobby groups, but it is mostly retirees who are twenty years older than me. We have nothing in common besides having free time. They want to talk about their grandkids or hip replacements, and I am just trying to find someone who wants to go on a random road trip on a Wednesday morning. It is a strange type of isolation where you have won the game but there is no one left on the server to play with. I am not going back to work, obviously, but I did not realize how much of my identity was tied to being busy.

The irony is that I spent years dreaming of this exact scenario. Now that I am here, I spend half my day just trying to look busy so I dont feel like a total loser while the neighbors head out to their cars at 8 AM. I guess I need to find a new tribe of people who aren't tethered to a desk, but that is easier said than done when most people my age are still decades away from the finish line .

submitted by /u/RiftJukebox
[link] [comments]", "comments": [ { "id": "t1_oka2c8j", "author": "/u/hework", "updated": "2026-05-06T16:31:34+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/oka2c8j/", "content": "Rich enough to retire, not rich enough to hang out at the country club and play golf all days with the nepo babies 😭" }, { "id": "t1_oka6fqa", "author": "/u/PromiseDue7195", "updated": "2026-05-06T16:50:06+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/oka6fqa/", "content": "being stuck in weird middle zone where you're not poor enough for regular problems but not rich enough for rich people problems lol" }, { "id": "t1_okb0wv2", "author": "/u/Potato_pancakes27", "updated": "2026-05-06T19:02:16+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/okb0wv2/", "content": "$5 million is a nightmare, Greg." }, { "id": "t1_okb200c", "author": "/u/SprinklesCharming545", "updated": "2026-05-06T19:07:03+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/okb200c/", "content": "The world’s tallest dwarf" }, { "id": "t1_okbukrz", "author": "/u/Reasonable_Horror544", "updated": "2026-05-06T21:14:05+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/okbukrz/", "content": "The weakest strong man at the circus" }, { "id": "t1_okbdilf", "author": "/u/microsofat", "updated": "2026-05-06T19:57:39+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/okbdilf/", "content": "r/GregFire" }, { "id": "t1_okb6vj2", "author": "/u/AddictedToPew", "updated": "2026-05-06T19:28:53+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/okb6vj2/", "content": "I immediately thought of this when I was reading" }, { "id": "t1_okgkhzt", "author": "/u/Pale_Will_5239", "updated": "2026-05-07T15:06:07+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/okgkhzt/", "content": "Came here for this!" }, { "id": "t1_okb4etz", "author": "/u/CelebrationNo1242", "updated": "2026-05-06T19:17:49+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/okb4etz/", "content": "I'm going to hijack this and just let anybody know with this problem that you should hang out with the societal outcasts if you'll accept them and if they'll accept you (honestly, less likely than you think if you worked a nice corporate job to FIRE early. The personalities and values tend to be the complete opposite)\n Lots of people free in the middle of the day that work night shifts at bars/clubs, chronically underemployed people, nepo baby artists/musicians, unemployed people, unemployed nepo babies, people living off disability, business owners/landlords that don't do jack shit, sex workers, nepo baby influencers, etc.\n During my career break, most of my friends were starving artists, underemployed trust fund kids, trust fund artists, broke people with little work, or sex workers" }, { "id": "t1_okbldtd", "author": "/u/Outside-Island-206", "updated": "2026-05-06T20:32:24+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/okbldtd/", "content": "I live in a mining area where a large proportion of people are on 7/7 rosters so they socialise on their 7 days off. Find some FIFO friends?" }, { "id": "t1_okce9ym", "author": "/u/CelebrationNo1242", "updated": "2026-05-06T22:54:22+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/okce9ym/", "content": "Oh that's also a great one yea, some places also have tons of people working seasonal jobs" }, { "id": "t1_okbrgqg", "author": "/u/rumpler117", "updated": "2026-05-06T20:59:58+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/okbrgqg/", "content": "Where does one go to make friends with such people?" }, { "id": "t1_okce0f7", "author": "/u/CelebrationNo1242", "updated": "2026-05-06T22:52:57+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/okce0f7/", "content": "Just hang out around the city, go to hobby groups, art events, music events, bars, clubs\n Chat with people" }, { "id": "t1_okds8zf", "author": "/u/WeakestLynx", "updated": "2026-05-07T03:42:30+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/okds8zf/", "content": "Go to like: poetry readings, art show openings, kink events, the gay bar, a board game cafe, "industry night" at a bar. Look at the posters in a local independent coffee house and see what's happening." }, { "id": "t1_okjmyy3", "author": "/u/Fair-Search-2324", "updated": "2026-05-07T23:45:44+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/okjmyy3/", "content": "On either end of the economic spectrum, there exists a leisure class.\n Don’t forget the ski bums and the climbing dirtbags." }, { "id": "t1_okh102x", "author": "/u/Careless-Age-4290", "updated": "2026-05-07T16:18:47+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/okh102x/", "content": "So basically like Jesus' crew" }, { "id": "t1_oka30wz", "author": "/u/RiftJukebox", "updated": "2026-05-06T16:34:41+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/oka30wz/", "content": "That hit way too close to home. I am basically stuck in the middle class retirement limbo." }, { "id": "t1_okalqbz", "author": "/u/duckworthy36", "updated": "2026-05-06T17:55:17+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/okalqbz/", "content": "I was worried about this too, but I talked to someone who’d been on the early retirement track longer and it gave me a lot of hope.\n Here are my top recommendations:\n\n- It’s okay if you realize some of your friends are not people you really want to spend more time with. The exhaustion of work and work mindset made it easy and convenient to be friends with some people you may not really have much in common with.\n\n- Early retirement is a chance to reframe your life as many times as you want. The first year is about relaxing and letting go of all the capitalist brainwashing about your value being tied to productivity. Then you get to try a ton of stuff and see what brings you joy.\n\n- Weekends are the time to be busy as a retired person. Use your weekdays to recharge and do chores. That said, many of your friends who work from home alone are lonely. Stop by with coffee or lunch sometimes it will make their day.\n\n- Make your new job making new connections. Personally I find people who volunteer are very good and interesting people. I did meet more younger people at more physically demanding volunteer work like habitat for humanity or some of the environmental stuff I volunteer for. Also, you meet people who have alternative schedules this way if you do weekday volunteering. People who do stuff in restaurants, or events, or freelancers are your best options. Don’t be afraid to do new stuff on your own it’s how you will meet people.\n\n- Be a better neighbor, family member or friend if you want to feel fulfilled. I’ve met more of my neighbors in 2 years of being retired than I did the 10 years I lived there while working. My relationship with my siblings and cousins are way stronger because i have time and I’m willing to reach out." }, { "id": "t1_okap59u", "author": "/u/Acceptable_Low8802", "updated": "2026-05-06T18:10:04+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/okap59u/", "content": "Valuable post for sure. We are halfway through our fire number at 2M. I have been working from home for almost 8 years now, and I go to coffee shop just to escape the loneliness and get out of the house.\n My friends envy that I work from home, but it def has its cons." }, { "id": "t1_okboa9m", "author": "/u/pn_dubya", "updated": "2026-05-06T20:45:39+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/okboa9m/", "content": "100%. Gym and coffee shop almost daily to get my socialization." }, { "id": "t1_okbob7t", "author": "/u/pn_dubya", "updated": "2026-05-06T20:45:46+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/okbob7t/", "content": "100%. Gym and coffee shop almost daily to get my socialization." }, { "id": "t1_okb9b1g", "author": "/u/CndnCowboy1975", "updated": "2026-05-06T19:39:25+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/okb9b1g/", "content": "I also work from home, I have for almost my whole career - and have worked solo now for the last 10 years. It has a lot of pros of course, but as you said, definitely has its cons / lonely moments. I go to the gym on my lunch break, have made friends there to get in a little social time - I find it really helpful." }, { "id": "t1_okboxds", "author": "/u/whereistheicecream", "updated": "2026-05-06T20:48:32+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/okboxds/", "content": "first year is about letting go of all the capitalistic brainwashing\n My father in law at 70 can't bring himself to retire because he believes his value is inherently his "productivity", but he isn't willing to questions productivity itself. He views productivity as making money for himself or others. Aka brainwashing\n I view productivity as making the most out of my time to have good experiences and happiness. Work can give you some of that but to limit your human experience to being productive at work is sad" }, { "id": "t1_okav83k", "author": "/u/Ancient_Art1", "updated": "2026-05-06T18:37:01+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/okav83k/", "content": "Can you tell me more about volunteering and how to fix this in my area, note retired but stuck in life and have no friends or social life. Want to find something where I can volunteer and find people and make connections. My main interest is traveling but I don’t suppose there are travel related volunteer orgs or nonprofits" }, { "id": "t1_okcgyux", "author": "/u/DryBop", "updated": "2026-05-06T23:08:56+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/okcgyux/", "content": "Local: Scout leader, schools, local museums, yoga studios (energy exchange for free membership), lions club, Kiwanis\n Aboard: WOOFF-ing, volunteering at international animal sanctuaries, volunteer consultant, engineers without borders" }, { "id": "t1_okax0z7", "author": "/u/Acrobatic-Jaguar-134", "updated": "2026-05-06T18:45:01+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/okax0z7/", "content": "There programs that help disabled folks, especially kids travel. Especially experiencing the outdoors. You will need training, maybe even formal training. I once volunteered with a group that did camping and rafting." }, { "id": "t1_okbebvf", "author": "/u/Ancient_Art1", "updated": "2026-05-06T20:01:09+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/okbebvf/", "content": "Thanks, will look into this" }, { "id": "t1_okaye5w", "author": "/u/trademarktower", "updated": "2026-05-06T18:51:08+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/okaye5w/", "content": "This is very true and something I experienced when leaving jobs. Workplace friendships are based on proximity and laziness. Once you leave work, most of mine just fade away aside from texts once or twice a year following up." }, { "id": "t1_okaob09", "author": "/u/MilzLives", "updated": "2026-05-06T18:06:22+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/okaob09/", "content": "This is excellent." }, { "id": "t1_okaz5q6", "author": "/u/SJPCST", "updated": "2026-05-06T18:54:32+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/okaz5q6/", "content": "One comment. I don't do lots of things on the weekends because weekdays are so much calmer. It is one of the best things about retirement!" }, { "id": "t1_okb6bno", "author": "/u/Betterway50", "updated": "2026-05-06T19:26:25+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/okb6bno/", "content": "Costco Mondays are the BEST. So is wine country Tuesdays or Mall Wednesdays. Weekends are to hang at home" }, { "id": "t1_okcel6h", "author": "/u/Last_Employee_8265", "updated": "2026-05-06T22:56:03+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/okcel6h/", "content": "I’m kinda a SAHM version of this 😂. All of my mom friends work FT. I’ve been thinking of joining Costco and was curious what the best day to shop is! Thank you! lol" }, { "id": "t1_okb7kox", "author": "/u/Acceptable_Usual1646", "updated": "2026-05-06T19:32:02+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/okb7kox/", "content": "Best contribution in this thread!! OP should read it carefully (and the rest of us too)" }, { "id": "t1_okawom0", "author": "/u/Peacelovefreedomm", "updated": "2026-05-06T18:43:29+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/okawom0/", "content": "Great advice!!" }, { "id": "t1_okb8je7", "author": "/u/Mindful_FIRE", "updated": "2026-05-06T19:36:04+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/okb8je7/", "content": "Amazing list. Thanks" }, { "id": "t1_okdhbi0", "author": "/u/quetucrees", "updated": "2026-05-07T02:33:41+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/okdhbi0/", "content": "#5 is great. I am available for my kids, nieces and nephews at anytime. I have become their goto resource for all sorts of shit. Currently spending heaps of time supporting one of my nieces' sporting aspirations going to events out of town and hanging out with my brother/SIL ." }, { "id": "t1_oka4gpn", "author": "/u/crispygarlicchicken", "updated": "2026-05-06T16:41:13+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/oka4gpn/", "content": "you know your way out then, go back to grinding and hit r/fatfire" }, { "id": "t1_oka6e4v", "author": "/u/MeatofKings", "updated": "2026-05-06T16:49:54+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/oka6e4v/", "content": "Yep, no way I’m quitting at 36 unless I’m at least Chubby or there’s an important secondary reason (health or family)." }, { "id": "t1_okaa8iv", "author": "/u/DecentDiscipline2523", "updated": "2026-05-06T17:06:35+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/okaa8iv/", "content": "What is chubby? 5m+?" }, { "id": "t1_okac2zy", "author": "/u/captaintrips420", "updated": "2026-05-06T17:14:24+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/okac2zy/", "content": "Enough to pay for some friends to retire early too so you have people to hang out with lol" }, { "id": "t1_okbjfxs", "author": "/u/ValidateMe3", "updated": "2026-05-06T20:23:38+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/okbjfxs/", "content": "I volunteer as tribute." }, { "id": "t1_okdtv7w", "author": "/u/MeatofKings", "updated": "2026-05-07T03:53:21+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/okdtv7w/", "content": "May the odds be ever in your favor 🏹" }, { "id": "t1_okazwcz", "author": "/u/SJPCST", "updated": "2026-05-06T18:57:46+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/okazwcz/", "content": "My son knows a guy like that. He seems to manage it without making the other guys feel somehow less. His number starts with a B. He did not grow up with money so he did not have rich peers and had to figure this out." }, { "id": "t1_okakvi5", "author": "/u/EnvironmentalMix421", "updated": "2026-05-06T17:51:40+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/okakvi5/", "content": "That’s fat, but $5M is not rly fat these days. More like fat who lives a chubby life. Need $10M to be entry fat" }, { "id": "t1_okajnp1", "author": "/u/rex8499", "updated": "2026-05-06T17:46:29+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/okajnp1/", "content": "It's really going to depend on your spending and location." }, { "id": "t1_okaqm4c", "author": "/u/DecentDiscipline2523", "updated": "2026-05-06T18:16:34+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/okaqm4c/", "content": "Like I wrote to another reply above.. might be true, esp in HCOL area which is near any big city in US today. Considering 4% SWR on that $5M, giving $200K a year, then paying for health care and taxes of about $20K-30K, leaves 175K or so for spend. If housing is costing like $5K rest is all standard.. does leave a little left over for travel (25K?).. but wouldn't this be a damn good lifestyle? I guess this is considered chubby.. and not necessarily "fat"? Is discretionary travel of 50K considered more fat? or what other criteria are we thinking?" }, { "id": "t1_okbec42", "author": "/u/rex8499", "updated": "2026-05-06T20:01:10+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/okbec42/", "content": "Yeah, it sounds like chubby fire for me and my expectations. Maybe somebody else wants a $2M sailboat to go travel the world and is going to be spending $200k/year just in boat maintenance." }, { "id": "t1_okdlhj2", "author": "/u/arfcom", "updated": "2026-05-07T02:58:42+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/okdlhj2/", "content": "Honestly fat is being able to do rich people with income shit. Not just afford an upper middle class lifestyle without working. Agree with $10M+." }, { "id": "t1_oka63gu", "author": "/u/37347", "updated": "2026-05-06T16:48:35+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/oka63gu/", "content": "Don’t worry, you’ll get there in 10, or 20 years. Find cheap hobbies" }, { "id": "t1_okawmj7", "author": "/u/trademarktower", "updated": "2026-05-06T18:43:13+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/okawmj7/", "content": "It's a lot easier if you had a partner or kids or liked to travel. A whole new world of adventures opens up around the world where you can go on extended adventures and meet fascinating new people.\n But if family and travel isn't your thing, yeah staying at home all day watching netflix and gaming will get old fast." }, { "id": "t1_okapfhu", "author": "/u/Fakerchan", "updated": "2026-05-06T18:11:19+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/okapfhu/", "content": "Why don’t u just take the time to travel solo." }, { "id": "t1_okaraco", "author": "/u/DecentDiscipline2523", "updated": "2026-05-06T18:19:32+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/okaraco/", "content": "Interesting idea..I have never done this.. since you're suggesting it i'm assuming you have experience? Can you share a bit? Just feels so weird as I've only done vaca with family." }, { "id": "t1_okavzz1", "author": "/u/PM_ME_PLASTIC_BAGS", "updated": "2026-05-06T18:40:27+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/okavzz1/", "content": "It's a good challenge as you'll be forced to confront a lot of your insecurities and weaknesses but it can be so amazing as you are truly free to find discover what matters most to you." }, { "id": "t1_okax7t0", "author": "/u/trademarktower", "updated": "2026-05-06T18:45:52+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/okax7t0/", "content": "If you are comfortable staying in hostels, it's really easy to meet travel buddies and make friends. But that kind of communal experience is not everyone's thing. I have social anxiety and am an introvert and it would drive me crazy. I like travel but after a week I'm definitely ready to come home. I wouldn't like extended months long adventures," }, { "id": "t1_okasd8w", "author": "/u/Fakerchan", "updated": "2026-05-06T18:24:16+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/okasd8w/", "content": "Well just take the plunge and go somewhere you always wanted to go. At ur age you should be self-reliant and comfortable to do things alone." }, { "id": "t1_okarqxx", "author": "/u/JerryJN", "updated": "2026-05-06T18:21:32+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/okarqxx/", "content": "Then you shouldn't have retired so early.\n I have lots of stuff to do. I fly radio control jets, helis, airplanes, sailplanes, and drones. I am learning how to ride a Indian Chief Vintage motorcycle. When I get comfortable enough it will be roadtrip time." }, { "id": "t1_okaphrv", "author": "/u/xfallen", "updated": "2026-05-06T18:11:36+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/okaphrv/", "content": "lol, you can prob do pickleball! They are 20+ older but it’s fun. I am 36 too and have hit my FIRE target but I am delaying retirement because I fear what you are going through.\n I am trying to hit 6 mil before retiring early. One mil for house and 5 mil to get $175k from 3.5% withdrawal. Hopefully, it will happen by 2032" }, { "id": "t1_oka5d75", "author": "/u/dreamy_entice", "updated": "2026-05-06T16:45:18+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/oka5d75/", "content": "Awkward middle: enough to quit, not enough for yacht, find free hobbies" }, { "id": "t1_oka74ql", "author": "/u/Temporary-Guidance20", "updated": "2026-05-06T16:53:09+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/oka74ql/", "content": "Walking is good hobby." }, { "id": "t1_okar6mr", "author": "/u/hill-o", "updated": "2026-05-06T18:19:05+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/okar6mr/", "content": "Why not just… volunteer? Or get a job that you like and don’t have to worry about hours or pay? Maybe it’s just because I’m still working but boy even if I retired with minimal funds I know I could figure out how to spend my time lol." }, { "id": "t1_okaq2t7", "author": "/u/JerryJN", "updated": "2026-05-06T18:14:11+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/okaq2t7/", "content": "Country Club is boring. He should learn how to ride a motorcycle and go on a cross country trip or learn how to sail.\n Never mind thinking I am bored." }, { "id": "t1_oka84nq", "author": "/u/DecentDiscipline2523", "updated": "2026-05-06T16:57:31+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/oka84nq/", "content": "What’s the minimum required for this? Fat fire? 3-5m? Ha" }, { "id": "t1_okaa0jk", "author": "/u/LemonWaterDuck", "updated": "2026-05-06T17:05:39+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/okaa0jk/", "content": "Depends entirely on where you live!" }, { "id": "t1_okarhfl", "author": "/u/DecentDiscipline2523", "updated": "2026-05-06T18:20:23+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/okarhfl/", "content": "Like I wrote to another reply above.. might be true, esp in HCOL area which is near any big city in US today. Considering 4% SWR on that $5M, giving $200K a year, then paying for health care and taxes of about $20K-30K, leaves 175K or so for spend. If housing is costing like $5K rest is all standard.. does leave a little left over for travel (25K?).. but wouldn't this be a damn good lifestyle? I guess this is considered chubby.. and not necessarily "fat"? Is discretionary travel of 50K considered more fat? or what other criteria are we thinking?" }, { "id": "t1_okaaw0g", "author": "/u/-40K-", "updated": "2026-05-06T17:09:24+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/okaaw0g/", "content": "typically 8m+" }, { "id": "t1_okab46f", "author": "/u/DecentDiscipline2523", "updated": "2026-05-06T17:10:22+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/okab46f/", "content": "Damn ok… so by the time I’m 65.. perfect" }, { "id": "t1_okabo7v", "author": "/u/-40K-", "updated": "2026-05-06T17:12:42+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/okabo7v/", "content": "like the other person said you can always move to some place where your dollars stretch further, then even 2-3m could be considered fat compared to local incomes" }, { "id": "t1_oka6vuf", "author": "", "updated": "2026-05-06T16:52:04+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/oka6vuf/", "content": "[deleted]" }, { "id": "t1_oka8ok4", "author": "/u/kuroketton", "updated": "2026-05-06T16:59:53+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/oka8ok4/", "content": "Yup just joined one and its like flying business class for the first time. Really hard to go back" }, { "id": "t1_oka9d9t", "author": "/u/bch2021_", "updated": "2026-05-06T17:02:53+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/oka9d9t/", "content": "That's really not that expensive unless you're talking world class clubs. Anyone who can afford to not work can afford to play golf all day" }, { "id": "t1_okbid2y", "author": "/u/dcheng47", "updated": "2026-05-06T20:18:52+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/okbid2y/", "content": "some smaller clubs have initation fees of under 5k. you just dont want it bad enough" }, { "id": "t1_okbt1ks", "author": "/u/Fugue_State76", "updated": "2026-05-06T21:07:02+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/okbt1ks/", "content": "And would you really want to tho?? Not much in common with those ppl." }, { "id": "t1_oka2tlp", "author": "/u/MagistraLuisa", "updated": "2026-05-06T16:33:46+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/oka2tlp/", "content": "Get a part time job? Something you enjoy doing? I’m barista fire and still work part time teaching. When I reach fire I probably sub so I have more freedom but still some sort of purpose and connection to society.\n Edit: I’m also 36" }, { "id": "t1_oka3mvs", "author": "/u/RiftJukebox", "updated": "2026-05-06T16:37:27+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/oka3mvs/", "content": "I have thought about Barista FIRE, but after a decade of backend dev, I am not sure what I would even do that would not feel like more grind. Teaching is interesting though. Do you find it actually helps with the social disconnect or is it just another way to stay busy?" }, { "id": "t1_oka6u16", "author": "/u/noticeofrezoning", "updated": "2026-05-06T16:51:50+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/oka6u16/", "content": "Teaching is way more of a grind than you think. Marking, student support, lesson planning, and all the other stuff that comes with it. You could volunteer in a local school as a tech coach though without all the extra work and stress." }, { "id": "t1_okal3nz", "author": "/u/TelevisionKnown8463", "updated": "2026-05-06T17:52:38+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/okal3nz/", "content": "Love this idea for OP. I’m a lawyer and love volunteering at a legal clinic for this reason. None of the crap work of lawyering; just talking to people about their legal problems and giving advice. When clinic hours end, they aren’t my problem anymore." }, { "id": "t1_okap1k7", "author": "/u/heartbroke8", "updated": "2026-05-06T18:09:37+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/okap1k7/", "content": "Lawyer planning on retiring next year here, how many hours do you put in a week volunteering? And is it stressful? What kind of cases do you help people with if it’s not your area of expertise?" }, { "id": "t1_okarjhw", "author": "/u/TelevisionKnown8463", "updated": "2026-05-06T18:20:38+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/okarjhw/", "content": "This is kind of unique, I think, and may exist only in NYC. It’s specifically for consumer debt defendants. They had a training but I’ve also learned on the job by asking the attorneys who work for the nonprofit that runs it. It’s three hours once a week. There’s also a volunteer lawyer for the day program, staffed by mostly the same people, where these same clients get help at their actual hearing. I don’t usually do that one, but I sometimes do if there is an interesting case. I actually argued a motion last week, for a person I just met that day.\n I don’t usually find it stressful, but a lot of clients want to share irrelevant info and I have to try to shut them down so I can get the relevant info, advise and get to the next waiting client. I feel bad because they wait hours to ensure they make it onto our list for the day. But they are often so grateful, which is nice." }, { "id": "t1_okg1khi", "author": "/u/HappySpreadsheetDay", "updated": "2026-05-07T13:38:33+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/okg1khi/", "content": "Also a teacher and would agree that yeah, it's a lot more work than most people think. You might have better luck with specific roles in education. Examples:\n - Substitute teaching. When my brother did this, he got robo-calls early in the morning and could accept or reject an assignment without penalty. I think a lot of it is handled online/via email these days. Of course, you will be in different schools/classes and building relationships with other employees may therefore be difficult.\n - Tutoring. I've worked in both higher and adult education, and most of our tutors were part-time.\n - Speaking of adult education, that's my current field and we are EXTREMELY underfunded. We used to have an awesome person (now a friend!) who volunteered to teach a class once a week, and it took so much work off of our shoulders. We're also more likely to hire part-time teachers, test proctors, and tutors because we don't have a lot of money for benefited employees.\n - Test proctoring. It's not thrilling work, but at least for services like Pearson, the qualification exams aren't hard. A lot of testing centers hire part-time.\n People might think of adjuncting, but as someone who was an adjunct, it's a lot of work for very little pay. You still have to build your own lesson plans, grade assignments, etc., but you only get paid by the credit hour (so the time you're in front of the class). There might be a few institutions that pay well, but they are not the norm.\n I also scored essays from standardized tests in the past, which was remote and make-your-own-schedule, but those gigs are getting harder to find for various reasons and are also a bit of a grind. You have to pass a qualification exam that proves you can score correctly and accurately, and you have to score a certain number of exams per minute." }, { "id": "t1_oka5blr", "author": "/u/Deosarian", "updated": "2026-05-06T16:45:06+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/oka5blr/", "content": "Find a quiet dive bar, work a couple easy shifts.\n You'll meet tons of folks and have more to connect with friends" }, { "id": "t1_oke4oa5", "author": "/u/ClearlyandDearly69", "updated": "2026-05-07T05:12:14+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/oke4oa5/", "content": "I specifically took a super easy job: grocery clerk—not for the money just as a social thing and I meet so many people. It’s easy and low stress and I have developed some close friends." }, { "id": "t1_okjqunz", "author": "/u/vulkoriscoming", "updated": "2026-05-08T00:09:52+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/okjqunz/", "content": "I had that job as a young adult. It was great. Chat with whomever wanders in while running items over a scanner and making change." }, { "id": "t1_oka6v50", "author": "/u/KungFuBucket", "updated": "2026-05-06T16:51:59+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/oka6v50/", "content": "Similar situation, I took my hobby and ran with it. I’m a soccer and football referee, I coach high school wrestling, sometimes I drive Uber. Enough to keep me busy when I want, but low pressure and lots of fun." }, { "id": "t1_okeegnj", "author": "/u/Levitlame", "updated": "2026-05-07T06:32:26+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/okeegnj/", "content": "Also volunteering. I’d imagine young(ish) people with weekdays available are pretty desirable for a lot of volunteer groups since it’s a pretty rare combination." }, { "id": "t1_oka82an", "author": "/u/Amazing-Basket-136", "updated": "2026-05-06T16:57:14+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/oka82an/", "content": "I’ve thought a cool retirement gig would be a docent at a museum, live in docent at a historic landmark (like a lighthouse), or one of those people that camps for free to help the other campers at campsites.\n Or get involved with the group that puts guzzlers in the desert for wildlife?" }, { "id": "t1_okbjbns", "author": "/u/1curiouswanderer", "updated": "2026-05-06T20:23:07+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/okbjbns/", "content": "This is so cool! I want to go through the giant list of college courses and identity areas of interest, but then find volunteer gigs and maybe take free EdX classes instead of committing to a new career" }, { "id": "t1_oka84l1", "author": "/u/pumpkin_pasties", "updated": "2026-05-06T16:57:30+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/oka84l1/", "content": "Volunteer at humane society? Park service? I saw a park service volunteer who was hanging out at trailheads giving people maps, that could be fun" }, { "id": "t1_okaf6bt", "author": "/u/Old_Value_9157", "updated": "2026-05-06T17:27:28+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/okaf6bt/", "content": "Well if you barista FIRE, you will have to grind......" }, { "id": "t1_okabg8v", "author": "/u/bawelbawel", "updated": "2026-05-06T17:11:46+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/okabg8v/", "content": "May I suggest working at the local library? If you like reading. People ask you about books. You're working but it's chill and it gives a structure to your days" }, { "id": "t1_okac4od", "author": "/u/mogtheclog", "updated": "2026-05-06T17:14:36+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/okac4od/", "content": "Tutoring may be a way to contribute without feeling like a grind. Worth checking idealist or a local library's website for something in person." }, { "id": "t1_okaipfu", "author": "/u/MishkaShubaly", "updated": "2026-05-06T17:42:27+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/okaipfu/", "content": "Teaching absolutely gives me life." }, { "id": "t1_okazn8p", "author": "/u/Urbanmud", "updated": "2026-05-06T18:56:41+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/okazn8p/", "content": "With dev skills there are many volunteer organizations that would love to have you working on a team - building apps/sites for non-profits, mentoring youth learning to code through projects, etc. Many ways to engage regularly with others on passion projects you care about." }, { "id": "t1_okarfy0", "author": "/u/hill-o", "updated": "2026-05-06T18:20:13+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/okarfy0/", "content": "****Substitute teaching is great. You’re just holding things together and doing the plan. :) You don’t have all of the long term stress that comes with regular teaching." }, { "id": "t1_okaw23v", "author": "/u/MagistraLuisa", "updated": "2026-05-06T18:40:42+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/okaw23v/", "content": "Im not in the states and ”my” school is a very good school with nice kids that actually want to learn. It helps a lot with the social disconnect. I like my colleagues but mostly I enjoy teaching my students, joking around, hearing high school gossip and being a positive role model." }, { "id": "t1_oka3uhe", "author": "/u/Beaver-on-fire", "updated": "2026-05-06T16:38:25+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/oka3uhe/", "content": "If I can pull it off, I want to work part-time in a dispensary after I fire. I will have to relocate to a legal state, but there's enough of those with low cost of living that I'm not too concerned." }, { "id": "t1_okb3but", "author": "/u/viper233", "updated": "2026-05-06T19:12:57+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/okb3but/", "content": "I'm never going to stop working,, I just won't be working for other people, i need a challenge and something to do\n Work can suck, I'm not working on things I want to all the time. Working on my own things is the goal." }, { "id": "t1_okafpwf", "author": "/u/lolxela", "updated": "2026-05-06T17:29:46+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/okafpwf/", "content": "What type of teaching do you do that’s part time? Higher ed or k-12? Sounds like something I’d be interested in after I fire" }, { "id": "t1_okauzko", "author": "/u/MagistraLuisa", "updated": "2026-05-06T18:35:58+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/okauzko/", "content": "Im not in the states so part time if common. I teach 13-15 years old in history and social studies." }, { "id": "t1_oka38ow", "author": "/u/Nimbus31_Flare", "updated": "2026-05-06T16:35:40+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/oka38ow/", "content": "It sounds like you need to find the 'digital nomad' or 'remote slow traveler' crowd. They are usually in your age bracket and have that mid-week freedom you are looking for. Staying at home watching the neighbors leave at 8 AM is just going to keep feeding that ghost feeling." }, { "id": "t1_oka8wrn", "author": "/u/Dull_Vast_5570", "updated": "2026-05-06T17:00:53+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/oka8wrn/", "content": "Yeah, was gonna say that you could consider spending some time in areas with a lot of digital nomads. There will be many others in similar situations in those spots. Examples would include Portugal, Thailand (especially Chiang Mai) and Malta. People in those situations tend to gravitate to a lot of new-agey group meet ups: yoga, café hangs, hiking, art, fitness, networking, crypto-bro-ing, etc.\n Close to home you can consider a large athletic challenge to take up a lot of your time and energy. For example, train for a marathon (or bigger yet, an ironman). Or join some boot camps. Train for a long bike race. Set a weight goal - either increase muscle or drop fat or better yet, both. If you train like a semi-professional athlete or movie star, you won't have much energy left to feel purposeless." }, { "id": "t1_okbcb1m", "author": "/u/trustyjim", "updated": "2026-05-06T19:52:29+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/okbcb1m/", "content": "Hawaii is another great place where people are focused on leisure and hanging out with friends" }, { "id": "t1_okanrr2", "author": "/u/UnicornDust850", "updated": "2026-05-06T18:04:02+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/okanrr2/", "content": "Agreed. There are a lot of folks in my area who are free midweek who work alternative schedules (retail, medical field, pre diem, contract or consult, self employed). There’s a local rock climbing gym that also has a pseudo coworking space where digital nomads hang out.\n You probably need to get creative about how to find and reconnect with folks." }, { "id": "t1_okauno5", "author": "/u/DistanceMachine", "updated": "2026-05-06T18:34:30+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/okauno5/", "content": "I would be in Thailand so fucking fast. Dude, I traveled the world for a year, message me! I know possibly the most incredible place to stay for $2/night right on the beach." }, { "id": "t1_okbz0wz", "author": "/u/DangerousPurpose5661", "updated": "2026-05-06T21:35:16+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/okbz0wz/", "content": "Oh another « live like a king on 8$ a day » post.\n OP is a multimillionaire, I don’t think they want to sleep in a 100 baht bamboo guest house to help curb isolation" }, { "id": "t1_oka4wtk", "author": "/u/Fun-Confidence-6232", "updated": "2026-05-06T16:43:15+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/oka4wtk/", "content": "A problem I aspire to.\n I don’t mean to be cruel here, but people in this economy are really struggling just to survive. Jobs are impossible to find. And you’re…. bored???\n Inactivity in retirement is a problem, but you have the luxury of options. the goal was always FI, and RE is entirely optional. Exercise, travel, volunteer, paint, write a novel…. or keep working. Don’t just sit there, do something.\n And you’ve got the time and money to talk to a therapist to work through your existential crisis. You’ve won the game, take the knee and enjoy it." }, { "id": "t1_oka8vuj", "author": "/u/tsujxd", "updated": "2026-05-06T17:00:47+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/oka8vuj/", "content": "Steak too juicy, lobster too buttery. You wouldn’t hear me complaining if I could retire at 36, I love being home, enjoy my own company, and can easily entertain myself with cheap/no cost hobbies." }, { "id": "t1_okae653", "author": "/u/KungLa0", "updated": "2026-05-06T17:23:13+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/okae653/", "content": "You wouldn't hear from me period, I would be on a motorcycle halfway across the world on the road trip of a lifetime." }, { "id": "t1_okdc8nf", "author": "/u/Slow-Echidna-5884", "updated": "2026-05-07T02:04:29+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/okdc8nf/", "content": "But then what? That is the question here." }, { "id": "t1_okakxcr", "author": "/u/LaCroixIsntThatBad", "updated": "2026-05-06T17:51:54+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/okakxcr/", "content": "100% lol.\n When OP was working, they also couldn't just grab a beer with friends on a Tuesday afternoon. Happy hour still exists. Weekday afternoon and weekend hangs still exist. They just have 8 extra hours a day that are completely free now. Hit the gym. Take up running. Take up photography. Anything is better than burning 40 hours a week working for someone else. Also, who cares what the neighbors think? I guarantee they would rather be retired early rather than working." }, { "id": "t1_okbegve", "author": "/u/tonkathewombat", "updated": "2026-05-06T20:01:45+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/okbegve/", "content": "Totally agree- you could use all that extra time to get in excellent shape, made excellent homemade food, and make and work in your own garden for 3 hours a day. There’s sooo much I want to do with the hours work takes up, even though I love my job." }, { "id": "t1_okaaidy", "author": "/u/Dull_Vast_5570", "updated": "2026-05-06T17:07:46+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/okaaidy/", "content": "Your point is super valid, but feeling aimless after an early retirement, or any retirement really, is completely normal. There's a strong chance that you're projecting disappointment because someone has met your personal dream but still feels unfulfilled. You imagine that you'd be without problems in that situation, but you may not realize that new issues might arise. Idle hands do the devil's work. Isolation leads to depression.\n I just read an article yesterday that links early retirement very strongly to cognitive decline. And since many people are retiring younger, especially men, that's causing cognitive decline rates to skyrocket. That can lead to early onset of alzheimers and similar diseases. This is something that early retirees need to be aware of and try to actively combat." }, { "id": "t1_okam4uf", "author": "/u/LaCroixIsntThatBad", "updated": "2026-05-06T17:56:59+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/okam4uf/", "content": "Funny how every major financial publication has a new reason why you shouldn't retire early. Almost like Fortune Magazine and its corporate advertisers have some kind of incentive to keep you in the workforce as long as possible." }, { "id": "t1_okb1pnd", "author": "/u/Dull_Vast_5570", "updated": "2026-05-06T19:05:49+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/okb1pnd/", "content": "Lol I did have the same cynical thought. But it shouldn't be surprising that there are pros and cons to retiring early. When done properly it can lead to an increase in health and a decrease in stress. But lots of retirees just kinda drink the rest of their lives away though.\n Replacing the mental activity that was provided by the workplace and all those forced social interactions is something that would require conscious effort. Not everyone is going to read a new book every week, play chess and bridge regularly, get a new degree and learn some new languages. Many of us will just have our brains start to decompose by posting on Reddit too much." }, { "id": "t1_okdnhjz", "author": "/u/mywifehasapeen", "updated": "2026-05-07T03:11:25+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/okdnhjz/", "content": "That's what I don't get about posts like this. What you said in your comment, stay active, keep using your brain, don't just drink on the couch for decades, that's like the single most discussed thing on FIRE forums. I don't understand how posts still pop up that are essentially "been following FIRE for years, finally pulled the trigger, now I do nothing and I'm bored." I can't help but think "you skipped the second most important step, to retire to something!"" }, { "id": "t1_okb51m9", "author": "/u/LifePlusTax", "updated": "2026-05-06T19:20:40+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/okb51m9/", "content": "I swear, retirement is wasted on at least half the people who say they want it. I took a year sabbatical from work and my life never even slowed down. There’s just so much I want to DO - work really just cramps my ability to do all the other things. Mini retirement was awesome. I can’t wait for the full deal." }, { "id": "t1_okcy20p", "author": "/u/Green0Photon", "updated": "2026-05-07T00:44:00+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/okcy20p/", "content": "It's an interesting conundrum imo.\n There's so much that I want to do, and really could do, given the time. But the problem is that so much of that will really naturally be solo stuff.\n I don't think it's that hard to find social things to do on the Internet. It's when you want to bring them in person that it then gets real difficult, which is what OP's struggling with.\n I think OP could in theory just become terminally online. But that's also such a terrible idea. So what do you do? Part of today's problems, often stemming from work, is a lack of a third place, and just before you've broken the chains doesn't mean everyone else has.\n The places to go exist, but it's still breaking from the mould and not so easy to construct. But then again, who said anything in life worth doing was easy. What's likely the case is that online hobbies bleed into online connections bleed into in person places to do things. Including volunteering.\n It sounds scary for OP, but really they just need to take it one day at a time, with faith that they'll build what they need. It's just like FIRE, in that aspect." }, { "id": "t1_okdsyi3", "author": "/u/CO_Renaissance_Man", "updated": "2026-05-07T03:47:14+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/okdsyi3/", "content": "Agreed.\n My in-laws are retired at 65 with a pension and don't know what to do with themselves half the time and are somewhat unhappy. They mostly sit at home and watch TV.\n My parents will have to work until 70 with no retirement savings to speak of (no debt either) and are envious of all of their peers and are always busy." }, { "id": "t1_okadx51", "author": "/u/Popka_Akoola", "updated": "2026-05-06T17:22:09+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/okadx51/", "content": "I second the therapist comment, OP.\n Sounds like your problem is existential in nature and a qualified CBT therapist can actually be pretty great for navigating that." }, { "id": "t1_okaf0bm", "author": "/u/R0GERTHEALIEN", "updated": "2026-05-06T17:26:46+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/okaf0bm/", "content": "Yeah, these retirement actually sucks posts are ridiculous and so fucking out of touch with reality. I mean if its that bad just go back to fucking work dude." }, { "id": "t1_okb8je3", "author": "/u/nurhogirl", "updated": "2026-05-06T19:36:04+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/okb8je3/", "content": "I agree. This will soon be me. I am single parent (not by choice, widowed) and all my kid wants from me to is spend time with her and it's really hard to do after spending a draining day at work. Don't get me wrong, I like my job, I like working in general, but sometimes there's a chapter in our lives where things (like work) can't be part of our life. I'm about to pull the trigger in a couple of months and my kid couldn't be any more happier. She's currently five years old and she lost her dad when she was two years old. Since she's of school age, what would I do when she's at school? I can do lots of things. I am a hobbyist writer -- maybe I can take fun classes to learn how to be a better writer. I can volunteer my time elsewhere. There is enough for me to do." }, { "id": "t1_okaizjs", "author": "/u/MishkaShubaly", "updated": "2026-05-06T17:43:38+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/okaizjs/", "content": "That other problems exist doesn’t mean that this one doesn’t." }, { "id": "t1_okdeinc", "author": "/u/UniqueHash", "updated": "2026-05-07T02:17:22+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/okdeinc/", "content": "Just because its a bit harder to relate to the problem doesn't mean it isn't real." }, { "id": "t1_oka2i9s", "author": "/u/LanternSable", "updated": "2026-05-06T16:32:19+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/oka2i9s/", "content": "The 'no one left on the server to play with' line hits hard. You won the race but the track is empty." }, { "id": "t1_oka5zri", "author": "/u/fenton7", "updated": "2026-05-06T16:48:08+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/oka5zri/", "content": "Seems like OP is limiting his gaming circle to just his close friends because popular games are packed at all times of the day. In part that's because they are international and people are in all different time zones. And solo gaming is great." }, { "id": "t1_oka8j9i", "author": "/u/rubbishindividual", "updated": "2026-05-06T16:59:16+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/oka8j9i/", "content": "Yep - a lot of my gaming buddies are in Europe or Australia, going back to school, shift workers, etc. There's always someone around if you can find the right community." }, { "id": "t1_okafgf9", "author": "/u/VersxceFox", "updated": "2026-05-06T17:28:41+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/okafgf9/", "content": "Seems like OP is a bot karma farming" }, { "id": "t1_okb8tvx", "author": "/u/tofuroll", "updated": "2026-05-06T19:37:18+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/okb8tvx/", "content": "That would be a good guess.\n Or OP needs friends who don't only complain about work? When I get together with friends, we very rarely talk about work. I would much rather more pleasant subjects.\n If your life consists of work and complaining about work when you're not working…" }, { "id": "t1_oka38lw", "author": "/u/RiftJukebox", "updated": "2026-05-06T16:35:40+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/oka38lw/", "content": "It is a lonely victory lap for sure. Still better than the alternative though." }, { "id": "t1_oka6mu5", "author": "/u/dethnight", "updated": "2026-05-06T16:50:58+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/oka6mu5/", "content": "Except for one man, still driving and striving as fast as he can." }, { "id": "t1_oka891z", "author": "/u/Gold_Tech", "updated": "2026-05-06T16:58:02+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/oka891z/", "content": "He’s going the distance" }, { "id": "t1_okabp0q", "author": "/u/Brick-Mysterious", "updated": "2026-05-06T17:12:48+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/okabp0q/", "content": "He's going for speed" }, { "id": "t1_oka4bgb", "author": "/u/OnlyThePhantomKnows", "updated": "2026-05-06T16:40:33+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/oka4bgb/", "content": "So volunteer at some place. Get yourself back into the pattern. Start contracting/consulting (my choice). I'd work 3-6 months (sometimes longer if I was enjoying it) and during the summer I'd bomb around on my motorcycle. Summer time people would ask "What you doing this weekend?" [Are you free for doing something] and in the summer about of 1/3 of the time was "Dude I am in <some state/park a long way away> on my bike. I'll be back in town next week."\n Build a life." }, { "id": "t1_oka6n89", "author": "/u/LetsGoToMichigan", "updated": "2026-05-06T16:51:01+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/oka6n89/", "content": "This reads like AI creative writing." }, { "id": "t1_oka8oah", "author": "/u/siftingflour", "updated": "2026-05-06T16:59:51+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/oka8oah/", "content": "It is. Part of a spam group that farms karma in random subs and then starts shilling AI essay writing services and online casinos. There's a bunch of them with the username Rift_ that are part of it: RiftLullaby, RiftMurmur, RiftQuiver, RiftCartouche, RiftHarbinger22\n It's also not a coincidence that two of the top comments are from brand new accounts that have only commented on this post." }, { "id": "t1_okawntp", "author": "/u/Zphr", "updated": "2026-05-06T18:43:23+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/okawntp/", "content": "Please feel free to submit proof of these claims to us via modmail. We are more than happy to ban proven bad faith actors." }, { "id": "t1_okbiqvs", "author": "/u/kdfn", "updated": "2026-05-06T20:20:34+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/okbiqvs/", "content": "Pangram is the most reliable detector of AI generated writing, and it flags this post as 100% AI-generated:\n https://www.pangram.com/history/7cdefec1-e56c-4e2e-bfe9-6ce20fac07f9?ucc=lEdv68az5Z5" }, { "id": "t1_om0l57a", "author": "/u/siftingflour", "updated": "2026-05-15T20:33:44+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/om0l57a/", "content": "check it out - the OP has now been given the "app" classification by reddit, meaning it is hooked into reddit's API and performing automated actions. it's been outed as a bot." }, { "id": "t1_okc27n4", "author": "/u/Frekavichk", "updated": "2026-05-06T21:50:51+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/okc27n4/", "content": "Does this really not read extremely ai-like to you?\n Why the hesitancy to remove AI slop from non-contributing accounts?" }, { "id": "t1_oka8dsw", "author": "/u/rainyelfwich", "updated": "2026-05-06T16:58:36+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/oka8dsw/", "content": "100%, this sub is full of AI slop posts that all have this weird tone, describing the same problem" }, { "id": "t1_okakn37", "author": "/u/capitalsfan08", "updated": "2026-05-06T17:50:40+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/okakn37/", "content": ""Q4" Targets? It's May. That was the giveaway to me it's AI." }, { "id": "t1_okabtyp", "author": "/u/bananabastard", "updated": "2026-05-06T17:13:22+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/okabtyp/", "content": "It does. Those reflective, "I thought something but this way, but it turns out to be that way".\n AI slop." }, { "id": "t1_okafmvi", "author": "/u/LetsGoToMichigan", "updated": "2026-05-06T17:29:25+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/okafmvi/", "content": ""the silence was deafening" ... get a fucking life" }, { "id": "t1_okbpsxc", "author": "/u/mintardent", "updated": "2026-05-06T20:52:30+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/okbpsxc/", "content": "AI is obsessed with using silence/quietly" }, { "id": "t1_okas6w4", "author": "/u/imprfectluck", "updated": "2026-05-06T18:23:29+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/okas6w4/", "content": "16 day account as well. I can't even read a paragraph of this slop. It's jarring" }, { "id": "t1_okaacbr", "author": "/u/alternatiger", "updated": "2026-05-06T17:07:03+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/okaacbr/", "content": "And to who's benefit? I don't get it." }, { "id": "t1_okadpd6", "author": "/u/siftingflour", "updated": "2026-05-06T17:21:14+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/okadpd6/", "content": "The accounts will eventually start shilling products/services. They make a few random AI comments and a post like this so when they start stealth advertising things, it looks like it’s coming from a real user’s account." }, { "id": "t1_okaff5d", "author": "/u/VeeGee11", "updated": "2026-05-06T17:28:32+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/okaff5d/", "content": "It’s obvious to us but the mods are powerless against it." }, { "id": "t1_okbhoo7", "author": "/u/arrcnd", "updated": "2026-05-06T20:15:51+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/okbhoo7/", "content": "It’s 100% gpt 5.5" }, { "id": "t1_oka310z", "author": "/u/Br0nzequill", "updated": "2026-05-06T16:34:42+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/oka310z/", "content": "Identity crisis after FIRE is so real. We spend years defining ourselves by our output and productivity, so when that stops, the silence is terrifying. You basically have to learn how to exist without a jira ticket telling you what to do." }, { "id": "t1_oka8lgk", "author": "/u/obmojo", "updated": "2026-05-06T16:59:31+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/oka8lgk/", "content": "Tbf I still use Jira to plan my hobbies and keep track of things I want to do. Helps smooth the transition 😂" }, { "id": "t1_okbn69j", "author": "/u/OkDatabase1486", "updated": "2026-05-06T20:40:37+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/okbn69j/", "content": "Omg no way" }, { "id": "t1_okbt3ft", "author": "/u/microsofat", "updated": "2026-05-06T21:07:17+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/okbt3ft/", "content": "It's great for kids, too! https://youtu.be/p_0Lw9NbM9U?si=4Nabb12n_EDkugI_" }, { "id": "t1_okcp9av", "author": "/u/obmojo", "updated": "2026-05-06T23:54:15+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/okcp9av/", "content": "Ok this video actually gave me PTSD" }, { "id": "t1_okadsj2", "author": "/u/FlaneursGonnaFlaneur", "updated": "2026-05-06T17:21:36+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/okadsj2/", "content": "I think this is the best and most empathic answer in this thread\n all the "lol at your first world problems, woe is me" responses are kinda tone deaf tbh\n this guy is being up front with his issues, life isn't easy man; money or no money" }, { "id": "t1_oka4nux", "author": "/u/stanley_leverlock", "updated": "2026-05-06T16:42:07+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/oka4nux/", "content": ""Funny thing about weekends when you're unemployed, they don't mean quite so much. Except that you get to hang out with your working friends." -Primus" }, { "id": "t1_oka7euq", "author": "/u/Beginning_Shape_7608", "updated": "2026-05-06T16:54:24+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/oka7euq/", "content": "You need a spouse." }, { "id": "t1_okaqgh3", "author": "/u/wowskiskigottam", "updated": "2026-05-06T18:15:52+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/okaqgh3/", "content": "This! I’ll be firing with my spouse. We plan to travel and adventure when we retire. I want to get my private pilots license. I want to make physical pursuits a focus.\n Having a partner to enjoy it with is key." }, { "id": "t1_oka47su", "author": "/u/Technical-Sector407", "updated": "2026-05-06T16:40:06+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/oka47su/", "content": "Learn how to weld or wood work or 3d print. Offer services to local non profits. Volunteer to dog walk. Hit on hotties at happy hour." }, { "id": "t1_oka54fu", "author": "/u/ShockerCheer", "updated": "2026-05-06T16:44:12+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/oka54fu/", "content": "This is why I personally think fire is better with a significant other. You'd always at least have them. But for real, volunteer and even if people are older than you, join clubs" }, { "id": "t1_oka2zgu", "author": "/u/Chicken121260", "updated": "2026-05-06T16:34:31+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/oka2zgu/", "content": "Travel or hobbies that combine working on your own with events/activities.\n Travel - lots of younger/mid 30’s travel. You wouldn’t just be doing it more often\n Hobbies - woodworking, 3d printing, LEGO building, etc. getting together on weekends to share your work. Only they would be doing it in the evening when you are doing it during the day and hanging with your “old” friends in the evening\n Volunteering is another option, but many will be older.\n If it were me, it would be travel!" }, { "id": "t1_oka3bzn", "author": "/u/Inevitable_Rough_380", "updated": "2026-05-06T16:36:05+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/oka3bzn/", "content": "Join a local FIRE community?\n Also, I'll make a comment that always in life you're talking to people about things you can't relate to. If you're a good friend - you're talking about their interests some of the time, things you can give 2 shits about, but you talk about them because they are your friend." }, { "id": "t1_oka9m55", "author": "/u/SWIMlovesyou", "updated": "2026-05-06T17:03:56+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/oka9m55/", "content": "Yeah this part confuses me. If I were talking to retired people it wouldn't be an issue to hear them talk about their grandkids or hip replacements as long as I enjoyed their company. Same with friends and work. You can't relate to work? You worked your ass off for however long to get to this point, right? Did you already forget what working is like after 8mos of retirement? If they are good friends you can talk about anything. Why would retiring stop you from having these conversations?" }, { "id": "t1_okagukj", "author": "/u/Cmd3055", "updated": "2026-05-06T17:34:33+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/okagukj/", "content": "You’re like an inmate who spent his formative years in prison and upon being released is struggling to recognize there is a whole entire world beyond the prison system and the neighborhood they grew up in before going to jail. Your whole world view has been shaped by your incarceration. All your friends are talking about managers and promotions..ect.. no shit! They’re inmates! Inmates bitch about the guards and brag about the amount of money they got on their books, so they can snag the good ramen at commissary. They live by the indoctrinated belief that being busy equal productivity equal worthiness. Just as it takes time for a cult survivor or ex inmate to recover from their captivity, so to will it take time for you to recover from yours. Be patient with yourself, question your assumptions and be willing to sit in the discomfort the unknown. You’ve worked hard to obtain this freedom, and now this it feels diff than the idealized dream of the captive dreamer, it’s time to really explore this big new life, complete with its own unique joys and sorrows.\n Go travel. You’re still young enough to lug a backpack around and enjoy meeting people from around the world. Ones who live and think differently and many are likely escapees like yourself. Go to Peru or costa rica and do an ayahuasca retreat. It will help you loosen the inmate identity you’ve been saddled with. Go to Thailand or India and volunteer/stay at an ashram. Allow your body and mind to relax and open. Go volunteer with a conservation group in the woods or desert or whatever, allow yourself to reconnect with the natural world. Do a meditation retreat at least and give yourself a few moments of experience something different for a change.\n It’s time to enjoy the real “real” world!" }, { "id": "t1_oka3hbc", "author": "/u/Bearsbanker", "updated": "2026-05-06T16:36:46+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/oka3hbc/", "content": "I'm a little older, fired about 13 months ago. Don't have any of those issues. I'm married and we do some things together but we also have our own "things" we do on our own or with other people. I guess all i can say is be comfortable in your own skin and find things you can do on your own." }, { "id": "t1_oka627b", "author": "/u/BigPicklr", "updated": "2026-05-06T16:48:26+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/oka627b/", "content": "Steak too juicy, lobster too buttery" }, { "id": "t1_oka6kkf", "author": "/u/Ootrab", "updated": "2026-05-06T16:50:41+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/oka6kkf/", "content": "Have you thought about volunteering? When I was unemployed, I would volunteer at the local non-profit radio station, community theater, and at the local meals on wheels. It’s important to get out of the house and socialize with people face to face." }, { "id": "t1_oka8r66", "author": "/u/Musical_Xena", "updated": "2026-05-06T17:00:12+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/oka8r66/", "content": "I was glancing through the whole thread, and multiple people mentioned volunteering, but I think OP is replying to other ideas (like hobby suggestions) more. Which is too bad, cause volunteering is awesome! There's lots of volunteer stuff that can happen on any day or any time of day, people always need help, it's a really diverse area, and it can provide a lot of meaning.\n I think that OP will really miss out on a lot of life experiences if they don't seriously explore volunteering." }, { "id": "t1_oka573t", "author": "/u/chinesiumjunk", "updated": "2026-05-06T16:44:32+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/oka573t/", "content": "The pool of people at your age in your position is extremely small. I'd do well in this position because I like spending a lot of time alone." }, { "id": "t1_oka5xwi", "author": "/u/Dirt-Track_Pinto", "updated": "2026-05-06T16:47:54+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/oka5xwi/", "content": "I’d go back to school just to learn stuff and meet new people." }, { "id": "t1_oka76u5", "author": "/u/bk2947", "updated": "2026-05-06T16:53:25+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/oka76u5/", "content": "The movie “About A Boy” covers the boredom of early retirement. Basically the protagonist finds he is undatable because he has nothing to talk about." }, { "id": "t1_okafa4x", "author": "/u/VersxceFox", "updated": "2026-05-06T17:27:56+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/okafa4x/", "content": "AI slop" }, { "id": "t1_okcvr15", "author": "/u/Impossible-Bug4487", "updated": "2026-05-07T00:31:04+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/okcvr15/", "content": "I resonate with your post a lot. I am in a very similar situation. I went through the comments and I think what people may not get is that, meeting people is easy, making friendships takes time and effort. When your life is 'unrelate-able' its hard to find people who will make the time and effort to be your friend. I don't know about you but I also think friendship grows based on shared values and circumstances not always because of shared 'hobbies'. Its something a lot of people may not understand if they already have built in friendships. I do a lot of things alone but it is exhausting to constantly do things alone. I been doing it for 5 years now. Hope you find your way to a community :-)" }, { "id": "t1_okdhdzi", "author": "/u/HobbesNJ", "updated": "2026-05-07T02:34:05+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/okdhdzi/", "content": "Yes, I'm an early retiree of 5 years myself. I have acquaintances from various hobbies, but turning them into friends is a tougher road. And being an introvert makes it even harder, though also less burdensome mentally." }, { "id": "t1_oka408h", "author": "/u/Cook_Own", "updated": "2026-05-06T16:39:09+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/oka408h/", "content": "Oh boohoo 😂 go use your time to make a difference in your community. Volunteer. Try a new hobby. I really don’t feel sorry for you lol I bet you can find friends who are freelancing and have a more flexible schedule." }, { "id": "t1_oka5xus", "author": "/u/FrugalFraggle", "updated": "2026-05-06T16:47:53+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/oka5xus/", "content": "Find a hobby that can take up a lot of time like Triathlon.\n Or just go to the gym a lot and travel" }, { "id": "t1_oka65tj", "author": "/u/Classic-Option4526", "updated": "2026-05-06T16:48:53+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/oka65tj/", "content": "If you live in a large town or city, check for hobby groups that meet regularly.\n While most of them still meet outside of work hours, and most members still work, I’ve found that friends you make while going out and doing stuff tend to be people who generally enjoy doing stuff outside of work and have a lot of personal projects and stuff to talk about outside of work. Plus, simply having a second friend group makes it easy to double your weekly number of social events even with people who are still working." }, { "id": "t1_oka9bmh", "author": "/u/Passiveabject", "updated": "2026-05-06T17:02:41+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/oka9bmh/", "content": "I think if they lived in a large city they wouldn’t have this problem… I do and I have countless friends and acquaintances and just people I see all around that aren’t working standard 9-5 and want to hang out during the day" }, { "id": "t1_oka8qpq", "author": "/u/tuesday_weld_", "updated": "2026-05-06T17:00:09+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/oka8qpq/", "content": "I wish we lived closer - I'd love a random roadtrip on a Wednesday! Going through a similar thing. I'm learning to enjoy solitude more and more. I'm also leaning into the intergenerational friendships. They talk about their kids and grandkids some, but for the most part we discuss whatever hobby thing we are doing together.\n I'd rather be dealing with this particular challenge than working though. Still happy for the freedom. It is a whole other adventure to explore!" }, { "id": "t1_oka3nad", "author": "/u/Mirth_2Cairn", "updated": "2026-05-06T16:37:30+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/oka3nad/", "content": "The shared trauma of the workplace is a huge part of adult friendships, and losing that common ground is brutal. Have you considered doing some low stakes consulting or mentoring? It might give you that social tether back without the 40 hour grind that you worked so hard to escape." }, { "id": "t1_oka5tsh", "author": "/u/FamiliarRaspberry805", "updated": "2026-05-06T16:47:23+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/oka5tsh/", "content": "100% true. Although very ironic that once you retire early to escape workplace trauma you have to find a way to reintroduce workplace trauma to stay connected 😂" }, { "id": "t1_oka3wdk", "author": "/u/kinopu", "updated": "2026-05-06T16:38:40+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/oka3wdk/", "content": "It seems like you want to keep your social circles but you already listed out the reasons why this wouldn't work. Many people find a job that fits their hobby or simply a job that they like to do before transitioning to full fire. This usually fills that void you are having where you don't know exactly what you want to do after FIRE and still want to keep their existing social circles. But yes, it is a difficult transition and everyone has different ways and methods to overcome it." }, { "id": "t1_oka5vuc", "author": "/u/Amazing-Basket-136", "updated": "2026-05-06T16:47:38+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/oka5vuc/", "content": "“and I am just trying to find someone who wants to go on a random road trip on a Wednesday morning. It is a strange type of isolation where you have won the game but there is no one left on the server to play with. I am not going back to work, obviously, but I did not realize how much of my identity was tied to being busy.”\n There are plenty of people who work nights and have an extremely flexible job (me) but with a wife and kids a random road trip is not in the cards.\n ETA, I used to be more involved in church stuff, but since the majority of the men there major on the nationalism/patriotism and still think a certain someone is playing 5d chess to put America first, I can’t respect them. And if I can’t respect them, I don’t want to hang out with them." }, { "id": "t1_oka627h", "author": "/u/Longjumping-Wrap5741", "updated": "2026-05-06T16:48:26+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/oka627h/", "content": "I got out at 48. You won the game and can do what you want. When I left I was quickly forgotten. People are in the matrix. You have the choice to be Cypher or Neo. Build your own Matrix." }, { "id": "t1_oka684o", "author": "/u/TrainingAthlete5842", "updated": "2026-05-06T16:49:10+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/oka684o/", "content": "Microcosm of what to come after AI revolution. Multiply this by hundreds of millions" }, { "id": "t1_oka7a6u", "author": "/u/wellboiled", "updated": "2026-05-06T16:53:49+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/oka7a6u/", "content": "My plan is to help rescue dogs. Try doing something useful you will be surprised how much happiness you get out of it" }, { "id": "t1_oka9p4w", "author": "/u/Express_Judgment2198", "updated": "2026-05-06T17:04:17+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/oka9p4w/", "content": "Getting in shape can be very enjoyable and motivating" }, { "id": "t1_okafalg", "author": "/u/stein63", "updated": "2026-05-06T17:27:59+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/okafalg/", "content": "Sounds like you didn’t retire from work, you retired from structure. That’s the part nobody talks about. Freedom is great, but without purpose, routine, and people to share it with, it starts feeling weirdly empty. You don’t need a job, you need a new orbit.\n The trick is building a week that has rhythm, people, progress, and a little adventure baked into it." }, { "id": "t1_okbp85n", "author": "/u/Elegant-Ninja6384", "updated": "2026-05-06T20:49:53+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/okbp85n/", "content": "What do trust fund babies do? They have been graduating college retired since the dawn of time.\n In all seriousness though - the point is to do what you want, not necisarily to be retired. You can get paid to do what you want too - that's okay. You're so young why not pick something else up that is engaging or fun. If you don't like it quit and try something else ;)\n I personally wouldn't be able to just stop entirely and chill at 36. Maybe 63..." }, { "id": "t1_okcm56b", "author": "/u/Numerous-Anemone", "updated": "2026-05-06T23:37:11+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/okcm56b/", "content": "This is basically the life of a housewife also" }, { "id": "t1_okdbfor", "author": "/u/VeroAZ", "updated": "2026-05-07T01:59:54+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/okdbfor/", "content": "Ever heard the term mother's little helper? That's because, for some people and some situations, this lifestyle is unbearable without drugs." }, { "id": "t1_okdc3gd", "author": "/u/Complete_Estimate442", "updated": "2026-05-07T02:03:38+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/okdc3gd/", "content": "Respectfully get a life." }, { "id": "t1_okgi5vz", "author": "/u/alldyslexicsuntie", "updated": "2026-05-07T14:55:37+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/okgi5vz/", "content": "Time to look up the meaning of life" }, { "id": "t1_oka4t2u", "author": "/u/RNKKNR", "updated": "2026-05-06T16:42:46+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/oka4t2u/", "content": "You now have the gift of freedom. Use it wisely." }, { "id": "t1_oka77av", "author": "/u/Impressive-Sort8864", "updated": "2026-05-06T16:53:29+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/oka77av/", "content": "You should move to a funner city with more to do" }, { "id": "t1_oka8a3f", "author": "/u/GreenFireAddict", "updated": "2026-05-06T16:58:10+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/oka8a3f/", "content": "Go on a cruise. Tons of social people there looking to hangout. Get to know some of the people and join their travel circles. Just one thought. Gotta be lots more options like this to be social." }, { "id": "t1_okaalxj", "author": "/u/FIREMovement24", "updated": "2026-05-06T17:08:12+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/okaalxj/", "content": "If you enjoyed software development, why not start a side project as a hobby? Build something cool/interesting to you and if it makes money, great, if it doesn't, that's fine too. Learn something new, like mobile development. I find building software very enjoyable when you're building something you're interested in, without needing to care about corporate stuff." }, { "id": "t1_okaarue", "author": "/u/photog_in_nc", "updated": "2026-05-06T17:08:55+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/okaarue/", "content": "Although I FIREd at an older age, I can say I didn’t really have this issue. And I don’t think it was primarily because of my age. A big part is having a spouse (plus kids and pets). I also worked from home for nearly a decade before retiring, so was used to not being around coworkers. But I’m also completely comfortable being alone for long stretches of time. I head out alone on my bike for 2-4 hours at a time several days a week, and never get bored of that. And some of favorite times since retiring have been solo adventures cycling across Europe for month+ long trips.\n Although I rarely do it, a sizable chunk of my core friends group have days off midweek, so it’s possible for us to get together and do something during days. Mostly, though, since I no longer really have excuses like being tired or busy, I’m the guy that’s always available for someone to grab a drink with after work, or to go see a band midweek." }, { "id": "t1_okaavi8", "author": "/u/qlippothvi", "updated": "2026-05-06T17:09:21+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/okaavi8/", "content": "I would look for community needs (charity as well) that could benefit from your skills. Sure, you could probably work from home if it’s coding, but maybe try and work in the “office” a few days a week.\n A few jobs back we had an older retired guy who took a minor part time position just to have a nice place to work. He worked on his own pet projects from time to time between work tasks or evenings, and said he liked being around people and the lab was better lit and we had far nicer tools than whatever he could set up at home.\n You don’t have to take up teaching, you could also be a mentor. I’m in my early 50s and in a lead position where I train new staff. And I’ve never felt more relevant than having fresh new faces be so grateful to work with me and learn important fundamentals and best practices they can’t learn anywhere else." }, { "id": "t1_okab9qm", "author": "/u/bananabastard", "updated": "2026-05-06T17:11:01+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/okab9qm/", "content": "Start a family." }, { "id": "t1_okabka7", "author": "/u/Sad-Satisfaction-370", "updated": "2026-05-06T17:12:15+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/okabka7/", "content": "Slow travel, house sit, see the world!" }, { "id": "t1_okafa9m", "author": "/u/Lucky_Break_3398", "updated": "2026-05-06T17:27:57+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/okafa9m/", "content": "Sounds like you’ve inadvertently joined the alternative lifestyle folks. (These are your digital nomads, long term travelers, through hikers, bike packers, commune dwellers, etc) while the rest of your circle are speeding down the conventional route. So, like many others said, it’s time to find a new tribe. You are grieving the loss of your old life, but you can’t expect to remain close to people whose free time is crushed by the 9-5" }, { "id": "t1_okajkwj", "author": "/u/footballpenguins", "updated": "2026-05-06T17:46:09+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/okajkwj/", "content": "Travel. You meet a lot more people to connect with possibly." }, { "id": "t1_okakkjd", "author": "/u/Proper_Tiger69", "updated": "2026-05-06T17:50:22+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/okakkjd/", "content": "Sign up for IronMan triathlon and start training for it. Fills 3-6 hrs/day easily and rest of the time you just sleep and cook. If you are still bored - start your own company." }, { "id": "t1_okalw7h", "author": "/u/sourestdough", "updated": "2026-05-06T17:55:58+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/okalw7h/", "content": "Thank you for posting this\n Another example of tradeoffs in life. Whilst folks might claim we are “poor little rich girls,” it is another example of the loneliness epidemic in our modern world\n I have noticed when I travel to Europe or the Americas, there are more cultural activities and folks do want to get out of their homes to meander and socialize. Their cultures are built on it through ritual and practice. There are a host of reasons why these places are conducive to social pursuits, but it also amplifies the lack of cultural socialbleness in the U.S.\n I, too, FIRED around your age (I’m 50 this year, but certainly don’t feel it), and it was absolutely unheard of to drop out of the workforce back then. Identities are formed around careers and no one likes a quitter /s\n For me, I am married, and my spouse is still working. A lot of my time goes into taking things off his plate so he can focus on work. He enjoys his work, so it allows him to pursue his goals without the minutia of life stuff. I enjoy the home arts (cooking, keeping a home, gardening, pottery), so my life centers around those activities. And if I’m able to create a community around those pursuits, all the better\n It’s taken me though, close to 15-16 years to figure it out some, though not fully. It may take you less time or more. It’s a journey. But time is a gift and if we allow ourselves the grace “to become,” we do indeed, become\n Folks in this thread have made great suggestions. If your budget allows you the gift of travel, start there - you may meet your tribe where you’d least expect it" }, { "id": "t1_okam3y5", "author": "/u/WishIWasThatClever", "updated": "2026-05-06T17:56:53+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/okam3y5/", "content": "Join local FIRE focused groups on Facebook.\n Look for groups for self employed and entrepreneurial people as they often have more flexibility in their schedule.\n Tailor your schedule to keep your evenings and weekends open.\n Step up as the group planner in your current circle to take that load off of them." }, { "id": "t1_okam9w7", "author": "/u/LoetherS", "updated": "2026-05-06T17:57:35+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/okam9w7/", "content": "I'm 48, recently Fired, and I find my new friends fall into 2 groups, much younger (20s, my RPG gaming group, just out of college) and my older group of friends (50s & 60s+ Remote Airplane Hobby) I don't have a lot in common with either group except our hobbies but I like them both for different reasons. It's okay to hang out with people of different ages." }, { "id": "t1_okamu7p", "author": "/u/wolverineflooper", "updated": "2026-05-06T18:00:00+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/okamu7p/", "content": "Sounds lonely dude. Missing kids missing family." }, { "id": "t1_okan9oo", "author": "/u/kushal92", "updated": "2026-05-06T18:01:50+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/okan9oo/", "content": "My neighbour (and also a good friend) had something similar, he retired early, hit the number, and then was bored and depressed. So he started working as a gardener, he liked gardening and now about 3 years later he owns a landscaping company with 2 part time employees." }, { "id": "t1_okar30v", "author": "/u/InformationTrick9065", "updated": "2026-05-06T18:18:39+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/okar30v/", "content": "36?\n Bud… man was created to work the land and reproduce. Get your boots back on, and figure out how to be working the land. You’ve missed the mark. (Congrats and im jealous btw, and sorry to poop your party but… amiright?)" }, { "id": "t1_okarhth", "author": "/u/SouthernZorro", "updated": "2026-05-06T18:20:26+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/okarhth/", "content": "Yeah, I think solo FIRE is probably best for introverts. I'm definitely an introvert and can go a loooong time without needing interaction with any other human. Retirement has been the best part of my life, hands down. By far." }, { "id": "t1_okas0zo", "author": "/u/Venezia9", "updated": "2026-05-06T18:22:46+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/okas0zo/", "content": "Do you not have hobbies? Or volunteer? Or pursue a passion project? I'm basically self-employed at this point. I'm never hanging out at a random coffee shop mid day.\n I'm so confused by this. Maybe lend me your extra time." }, { "id": "t1_okay4l3", "author": "/u/glitch241", "updated": "2026-05-06T18:49:57+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/okay4l3/", "content": "This is why I sorta got off the Fire train. Some people make it work but I think some retirees in general get bored, lonely and suffer health issues as a result. Idk what the would be for it but Fire where you still oversave to the point where you have the option to quit a job if its not bringing you joy. That is a sense of freedom itself if you are not forced to work. Maybe downshift into like lower-paying work to fill the time as many seniors do." }, { "id": "t1_okb1xl1", "author": "/u/himynameis_", "updated": "2026-05-06T19:06:46+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/okb1xl1/", "content": "You gotta find yourself a girlfriend/boyfriend to occupy your time. 👍" }, { "id": "t1_okb1zg5", "author": "/u/Individual_Log8082", "updated": "2026-05-06T19:07:00+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/okb1zg5/", "content": "I once heard this phrase stating that all problems humans experience can be placed in one of three categories. Health, wealth, and relationship. I’m willing to bet that while you were focusing on growing your wealth your relationships dwindled. Did you perhaps decline offers to go on group trips or outings with friends to save money? Did you miss quality time with loved ones to be at work? I know my wife and I keep track of these kinds of things and we stop inviting people places when they’re deliberately distant or neglectful in our friendship.\n My wife is a stay at home wife now because we don’t need her income and we don’t have kids yet. She has so many friends that she complains that she’s more busy now than when she was working. I think the disconnect may be that your friendships aren’t strong as you believe them to be. It could also be the case that your work was your identity previously and maybe that’s why people bring up work around you so often.\n It could help to go on some trip for self reflection or go into therapy and find out who you are as a person and what you want to do in life. You could quite possibly be in a midlife existential crisis that initiated when you had a significant change in lifestyle." }, { "id": "t1_okb46ip", "author": "/u/shitchopants", "updated": "2026-05-06T19:16:46+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/okb46ip/", "content": "Why did you want to retire early? You clearly knew that all of your friends were not going to be retired, you spent your early years grinding harder than anyone else and so you missed out on so many important milestones and opportunities for connection that will solidify relationships for the future. You want friends? You need to be there for them now, you need to take your free time and make things work on their schedule. Did you retire early bc you didn’t want to work? Well then you probably should have spent some time thinking about what that would look like. You chose a path different than all of your peers and now you are complaining that a large group of people your age did not do the exact same thing. Your friends are not jealous/standoff or disconnected from you because you don’t have a job, they are disconnected from you because you have disconnected yourself from the norm and instead of using the extra time you do have to become a better friend to those still grinding out their normal lives to give you more connection and ability to continue that friendship….instead of being upset none of your friends with jobs won’t leave in the middle of the week to do whatever they feel like. At 36 people have responsibilities and their own lives. Seems like you need to realize you are not the main character and start being a supportive friend. But to be clear, no one resents you or is becoming disconnected bc you now don’t have a job. I assume you are probably disconnected bc you went about you life different and instead of building relationships you weee working to have financial freedom as fast as possible." }, { "id": "t1_okb63cn", "author": "/u/Designer-Beginning16", "updated": "2026-05-06T19:25:23+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/okb63cn/", "content": "I like Padel tennis to fill that void. Lessons and matches." }, { "id": "t1_okbdvzm", "author": "/u/Punstoppabowl", "updated": "2026-05-06T19:59:13+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/okbdvzm/", "content": "As someone who is very much on the same path... I think there are a few different approaches.\n Most commonly, and what I plan to do, retire to my family. I have a small human that I want to spend every minute I can with. I intend to do that when I'm able. I'll coach every sport team and do all the fun stuff I can with him.\n Home improvement and around the house hobbies (gardening, farmette, building stuff, work working, art, music, etc.). Some of them add value to your things, make it so you don't need to pay for things because you build your own, or allow you to sell a thing. It feels like earning money without the grind.\n Sports and athletic activities. I have a few friends who retired early and got very into running, biking, or a particular sport. You can get incredibly good at a sport in your 30s. If you retired early, you probably like goals. Set a goal of X time for X distance or winning a tournament of some kind or something.\n Part time consulting. Whether 1099 or not, sometimes you just need time to use that part of your brain but not a full time job worth of commitments.\n Travel. Go abroad, they care about work far less than in the states and it's obvious once you're there.\n Just some thoughts. Maybe you find people who do what you want when you want, but it's unlikely. Instead I'd find semi social ways to spend your time that don't depend on the availability of more than like 1 other person for a shorter period of time." }, { "id": "t1_okbifud", "author": "/u/kdfn", "updated": "2026-05-06T20:19:13+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/okbifud/", "content": "This post is fully AI generated. If you have so much free time, surely you could take the time to write posts yourself?\n https://www.pangram.com/history/7cdefec1-e56c-4e2e-bfe9-6ce20fac07f9?ucc=lEdv68az5Z5" }, { "id": "t1_okbstc2", "author": "/u/Fugue_State76", "updated": "2026-05-06T21:06:00+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/okbstc2/", "content": "Yeah this is one reason that I’ve slowed down my “race to the finish line” and plan to work part time in same industry for several years after retiring from full time work. Early FIRE looks to be kinda bleak. This is a very well written post capturing the isolation well. Stay strong, you’ll find your groove & peeps eventually but it will probably take time." }, { "id": "t1_okbumpp", "author": "/u/NinetalesFire", "updated": "2026-05-06T21:14:20+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/okbumpp/", "content": "Travel. Problem solved. Volunteer, problem solved" }, { "id": "t1_okbvy2x", "author": "/u/Magikarpical", "updated": "2026-05-06T21:20:33+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/okbvy2x/", "content": "i left the workforce at 38, i was also a backend software engineer. do you not have any friends who also quit working? about half my tech friends retired over the last 5 or so years, and they're all my age or younger. most of them are slow travelling but i meet up frequently with those who stuck around in the bay area.\n have you tried taking classes? i started art classes in January at a community college and although it's probably majority "college aged" folks, there are probably a half dozen people around my age.\n also you should look into volunteer opportunities. i volunteer at an animal shelter on weekday afternoons and it's mostly folks within 10 years of my age (tbh i think it's mostly stay at home moms). i hear the weekends have an average younger age.\n the key, really, is to fill your life with meaningful activities and quality time with people you love. the normal advice for fire is to build the life you want to retire to, it sounds like you're missing that part." }, { "id": "t1_okbw7lb", "author": "/u/tbcboo", "updated": "2026-05-06T21:21:48+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/okbw7lb/", "content": "I’m not saying you are full to blame in this at all but at barely 5 years older and FIRE’d it’s been an adjustment but I have a mix of friendships and lots of hobbies that keep me busy. Still barely any true downtime to just relax because of doing all the things I wanted to do while working. I’ve had way more time to meet up with friends and be more flexible too. Even meeting some for lunch near work office during the day because, well…I have complete freedom!\n Definitely agree on finding a new tribe for yourself but also instead of just relying on other people look at yourself for self enjoyment. I mean that in the most FIRE way. As in find and explore your own interests and hobbies even if people aren’t available. Or meet people in those hobbies. I have friendships of all ages and if you can only connect with people because of the freedom maybe find more interests?" }, { "id": "t1_okbybq7", "author": "/u/Good-Resource-8184", "updated": "2026-05-06T21:31:54+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/okbybq7/", "content": "I retired at 35 and love it. We have 2 elementary aged kids. We travel. We hangout with friends on weekends. I golf. My wife runs a photo business. We go to the gym. We live in a neighborhood with a group of friends that get together every weekend. My parents live a block away.\n Been retired over 4 years and it's been great." }, { "id": "t1_okc0lue", "author": "/u/Imchauncy", "updated": "2026-05-06T21:42:57+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/okc0lue/", "content": "On the chance this post isn’t AI, I suggest reading this old, lengthy post, back from when humans had web sites. It’s a great example of the proverb “you make plans, and God laughs”. But it’s a positive story too. Life continues. Last update I remember, guy was remarried, had a child, had a normal life, and was happy.\n https://livingafi.com/2021/03/17/the-2021-early-retirement-update" }, { "id": "t1_okcaq5j", "author": "/u/ahix_thehix", "updated": "2026-05-06T22:35:15+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/okcaq5j/", "content": "i had that exact same problem like 6 months ago. down to being 36, lol. the solution I found was volunteering. there's this charity thrift store in my little town that also does some poverty assistance and is the local food pantry. I just showed up one day, and they had me helping out taking in donations to the thrift store. well, after I kept showing up for a couple months, its turned into a pretty great setup. everyone there is super grateful and nice to me, and I kinda get to do what I want in terms of helping out. I went to a seminar with the organization's director last week to learn how to apply for grants, bc that sounds interesting to me, and the director wants me to help them with their grant application process. They also have a bunch of seasonal events that I'm taking an active roll in planning. Took like 2ish months of consistent showing up and sorting donations for them to start asking me to do other stuff.\n I've been FIRE for 3-4 years now, and I gotta say, the volunteer gig seems perfect right now. It was rainy and I didn't sleep well last night, so I just was like, nahh, and didn't go. I also like random Wednesday road trips and 3 day weekend vacations. I don't have to ask anyone for any of that, I just text them. I try to be consistent and give them like 30 hours a week, and treat it like a job. I do a good job while I'm there, nothing crazy, but you'd think I cured a different type of cancer every day from how nice they are to me. I guess it's because most other volunteers are like 5-10 hours a week, and are twice my age, but I get pulled aside by a different random 'coworker' just about every day just to gush about how grateful they are. Seriously does wonders for the self-esteem." }, { "id": "t1_okcat5b", "author": "/u/kbreezy17298", "updated": "2026-05-06T22:35:43+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/okcat5b/", "content": "Go travel buddy" }, { "id": "t1_okcei4b", "author": "/u/sqiif", "updated": "2026-05-06T22:55:35+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/okcei4b/", "content": "Start your own business. Sitting around unmotivated with nothing to put your drive into sounds more like early death than early retirement. You have the financial freedom to take risks. Building your own business is single handedly one of the most challenging and rewarding things you could do for yourself if you're not going to go off and travel the world. (Why you've retired and not headed off around the world I don't know, retiring and sitting at home sounds like hell)" }, { "id": "t1_okclmvn", "author": "/u/joaopaulo-canada", "updated": "2026-05-06T23:34:24+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/okclmvn/", "content": "I heard this recently:\n "just go get someone pregnant"\n maybe that's applicable here\n you'll have many things to do later 😂" }, { "id": "t1_okcpdus", "author": "/u/Phaeron", "updated": "2026-05-06T23:54:58+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/okcpdus/", "content": "Well… get a job doing or working with things pertaining to your hobby?" }, { "id": "t1_okd3jag", "author": "/u/Responsible_Set4660", "updated": "2026-05-07T01:14:58+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/okd3jag/", "content": "Take a fun job- uber driver, barista, talk to customers, gather material to write something. Volunteer, at the Humane Society (where dogs & cats are your company), docent at the museum or botanical garden. (Some of these are old photos people things but are public facing so you deal with the random public. You may meet some interesting people. Also, go back to school and study for a dream hobby." }, { "id": "t1_okd80mk", "author": "/u/tomahawk66mtb", "updated": "2026-05-07T01:40:34+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/okd80mk/", "content": "You'd be surprised: isolation and lack of social life is one of the main issues for normal age retirees too apparently.\n We moved to our ExpatFIRE location early (we were both still working corporate jobs remotely) and it's been great! I'm semi retired now as I still do consulting and freelance projects, but because we are in a tropical holiday destination, most people don't have conventional 9-5 jobs. They run businesses or work remotely. Also, lots of the activities we do together are essentially free, like ocean swimming, hiking etc. so even though we are all of different means we can hang." }, { "id": "t1_okdddap", "author": "/u/Supersleuth921", "updated": "2026-05-07T02:10:48+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/okdddap/", "content": "You need to find people who love what they do, aren’t overloaded with stress from work, and also have a good amount of free time. Stay at home parents whose kids are in school are also an option if your interests align! Follow your hobbies and interests and you will find people. Alternatively find the very athletic people and join them 😂" }, { "id": "t1_okdfgik", "author": "/u/fame2robotz", "updated": "2026-05-07T02:22:48+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/okdfgik/", "content": "Workout, find love, start a family" }, { "id": "t1_okemuaw", "author": "/u/oscarwildeflower", "updated": "2026-05-07T07:45:13+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/okemuaw/", "content": "Same. I retired at 41 and it was terrible for my mental health. I ended up going back to school at 44 just for something to do. 🤷‍♀️" }, { "id": "t1_okeoocg", "author": "/u/Azurik81", "updated": "2026-05-07T08:01:43+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/okeoocg/", "content": "Surprised people are getting baited to respond to an AI post so much. This account is clearly farming for karma." }, { "id": "t1_oketyvt", "author": "/u/Alternative-Yak-6990", "updated": "2026-05-07T08:50:18+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/oketyvt/", "content": "have some kids, im dead serious about that. Otherwise you might even voluntarily check into the 9-5 prison again (or more like 8-7 in reality)." }, { "id": "t1_okfft49", "author": "/u/ClearSkyyes", "updated": "2026-05-07T11:39:08+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/okfft49/", "content": "Interesting. Can't say this has been an issue for me, but I've always done everything solo. Even when I was working, I would travel solo for work all the time and most of my work when not traveling was just me and a new customer that I'd spend a few days with before leaving for the next. I had a few times over my various roles where that wasn't the case, but either was fine by me. I've never needed another person to entertain me. I have plenty of interests and hobbies that do that just fine. Now that I'm retired, I just lean into that more. I also have various group activities like volunteering, board member, or just hobby-based meet-ups. Or I just go out for a walk around the neighborhood or head to the store... there are always people to interact with there. It sounds like maybe you don't like yourself or have just expected others to entertain you for most of your life. This is your chance to change that, but you might benefit from a therapist. Good luck!" }, { "id": "t1_okfg5xy", "author": "/u/1wrx2subarus", "updated": "2026-05-07T11:41:23+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/okfg5xy/", "content": "New tribe? This is your tribe.\n You don’t need to look busy. I’ll let you in on a little secret. Try to get one thing done on any given day. That’s it.\n If necessary, I’d suggest traveling a bit so you find a community that caters more to retirees. It’s ok to hang out with older people. There are younger ones around though. This fire community is evidence of that.\n Alright, here’s another secret — set a routine. In essence, make a point of getting outside.\n Remember when you looked longingly at the sunny day from a cubicle? Well, get out there and hike. Wave at the office building of people looking at you, doing what they wish they could do.\n All that said, spend less time gaming and more time hiking, kayaking, fishing, golfing, camping, skydiving or just enjoying time out & about. Worst case, listen to some new music and go to some concerts. Watch a few standup comedy shows on Netflix and go see them live. Live your life, it goes by fast!" }, { "id": "t1_okg1msz", "author": "/u/Equivalent-Room-8428", "updated": "2026-05-07T13:38:53+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/okg1msz/", "content": "I left corporate 18 months ago and started working on a coaching accreditation and would meet with a cohort a couple of times a week, it helped me. When the cohort would go on break, each time, I had a little meltdown about my life. I got my accreditation then 11 days later a startup called and I went back to work for the fun of it.\n I haven't worked in an office for 6 years, so that's been a bit different and it's been exhausting for the last 3 weeks adjusting to giving up 12 hours of my day. Tuesday they really pissed me off and as I drove home I was like, "I don't even need this Fing job" so I worked from home on Wednesday and I forgot how nice that was.\n I'm saying all of this because 20 years of corporate burned me out, studying on my own was lonely, the cohort helped but it was an hour of zoom, the startup is unpredictable and irritating basically all of it is somewhat miserable. I think a lot of it comes down to being solo. I feel like if I was retired with a partner it would be better. But maybe we would get sick of each other? 🤷‍♀️" }, { "id": "t1_okgdsy7", "author": "/u/Usual_Common4762", "updated": "2026-05-07T14:35:58+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/okgdsy7/", "content": "I am in the same boat right now." }, { "id": "t1_okgecsk", "author": "/u/MadAxxxx", "updated": "2026-05-07T14:38:28+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/okgecsk/", "content": "Might I suggest getting a dog? It’s pretty fun to hang out with a dog all day haha and maybe you’ll meet new friends, that don’t work all day, at the dog park ?" }, { "id": "t1_okgeda7", "author": "/u/SpaceJesusIsHere", "updated": "2026-05-07T14:38:32+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/okgeda7/", "content": "There are thousands of charities that make a huge impact on society that need people like you. If you feel directionless but dont want to go back to a stressful corporate environment, find a charity that serves a cause you care about and volunteer or get a part time job.\n My old boss retired early to work for a charity that provides new clothes to poor kids. He's the happiest person I know.\n Edit to add: If you want people who are free to hang out mid day, have you tried Spain?" }, { "id": "t1_okgehvp", "author": "/u/BarefootMarauder", "updated": "2026-05-07T14:39:07+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/okgehvp/", "content": "If you were previously living like a monk, how would early retirement be any different for you?\n When I try to grab a beer or even just jump on Discord for some gaming on a Tuesday afternoon, the silence is deafening .\n Again, unless you were grabbing beers and/or gaming during work hours, how is ER any different? Can't you still do those things with your friends after normal work hours? Otherwise, you just need to keep trying new hobbies & activities and start forming a new circle of friends with similar interests and time freedom. It will take some time." }, { "id": "t1_okgjhew", "author": "/u/apierge", "updated": "2026-05-07T15:01:31+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/okgjhew/", "content": "This post is a keeper. A cautionary tale for everyone here." }, { "id": "t1_okhc4no", "author": "/u/kodiak_kid89", "updated": "2026-05-07T17:07:49+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/okhc4no/", "content": "Try therapy" }, { "id": "t1_okhkem5", "author": "/u/CONNmanNAFD", "updated": "2026-05-07T17:43:50+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/okhkem5/", "content": "Volunteer everyday. Find humble reminders out there that you dont have a problem." }, { "id": "t1_okhlkjp", "author": "/u/Ancient_Sea5097", "updated": "2026-05-07T17:48:53+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/okhlkjp/", "content": "Golf" }, { "id": "t1_okjuycn", "author": "/u/One_Talk_3410", "updated": "2026-05-08T00:37:03+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/okjuycn/", "content": "would love to have this problem. I don’t give a rats ass what anyone thinks about me" }, { "id": "t1_okjz2ay", "author": "/u/deej_011", "updated": "2026-05-08T01:03:59+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/okjz2ay/", "content": "Oh, fuck right OFF" }, { "id": "t1_okknc37", "author": "/u/Legitimate_Mobile337", "updated": "2026-05-08T03:40:17+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/okknc37/", "content": "Find a good woman and travel the world" }, { "id": "t1_oli337h", "author": "", "updated": "2026-05-13T03:43:24+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/oli337h/", "content": "[deleted]" }, { "id": "t1_oka3inf", "author": "/u/LouSevens", "updated": "2026-05-06T16:36:55+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/oka3inf/", "content": "I am in a holding pattern- i really wasn't even away of FIRE until end of last year and inadvertently stumbleed into it. I go to some gym classes and noticed during the day they are older than me- I don't care though.\n I have plenty of hobbies, interests and family obligations though. It works for me as over life I have always done my own thing and am a introverted extrovert and like my downtime." }, { "id": "t1_oka4apz", "author": "/u/Annual_Cantaloupe294", "updated": "2026-05-06T16:40:28+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/oka4apz/", "content": "What was your fire number" }, { "id": "t1_oka5i2e", "author": "/u/Interesting-Rate", "updated": "2026-05-06T16:45:55+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/oka5i2e/", "content": "Having been there, it starts to feel like a life lived out of order. Life experience with the peers becomes different and more difficult to relate" }, { "id": "t1_oka5lth", "author": "/u/C638", "updated": "2026-05-06T16:46:23+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/oka5lth/", "content": "I was in a similar situation and took a job at a University to give back to the community. It was mentally rewarding and paid something (around 1/4th of my previous pay) and provided health benefits. After 5 years it was more like a job so I retired, this time permanently. You might try something like this out, or run for elected office." }, { "id": "t1_oka5rcs", "author": "/u/blisstaker", "updated": "2026-05-06T16:47:04+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/oka5rcs/", "content": "get a hobby to get really into, learn a hard language like chinese, japanese, korean, or arabic\n trust me, you wont have enough free time anymore" }, { "id": "t1_oka5v6f", "author": "/u/Banned3rdTimesaCharm", "updated": "2026-05-06T16:47:33+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/oka5v6f/", "content": "Bro if I could just stay home all day and watch ecchi anime I’d be content with life. Loneliness is my sanctuary.\n Instead I’m managing a team of 15 people and dealing with enough IC work for two.\n I won’t hear these complaints. What you’re describing sounds like heaven to me." }, { "id": "t1_okac7ba", "author": "/u/Dull_Vast_5570", "updated": "2026-05-06T17:14:54+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/okac7ba/", "content": "Yes, but you don't know if you'd actually enjoy what you're describing if you did that every day for 6+ months. Maybe you enjoy that so much because you do it for 1 or 2 days per week as a contrast to all your other intensive and highly social work activities. If you did it all day every day you might very well end up extremely lonely, aimless and depressed." }, { "id": "t1_okb3hao", "author": "/u/Banned3rdTimesaCharm", "updated": "2026-05-06T19:13:38+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/okb3hao/", "content": "This is pretty much all I did during Covid and I loved it. I mourned the day the world opened back up." }, { "id": "t1_oka5x4j", "author": "/u/agoodspace", "updated": "2026-05-06T16:47:48+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/oka5x4j/", "content": "look at your spiritual gifts and serve/volunteer? travel groups" }, { "id": "t1_oka63pc", "author": "/u/Tobeorknotobe", "updated": "2026-05-06T16:48:37+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/oka63pc/", "content": "Go do the stuff you want to do, go hike on your local trails, you’ll see others, the more you do it, the more people you’ll see and potentially talk to. The key is to get out there and do what you want, you will find others doing those same things and that’s the start of building your community. This can be anything, volunteer at a library or the American Red Cross, biking, hiking, etc..the first step is being willing to go alone, it may be uncomfortable." }, { "id": "t1_oka6kgh", "author": "/u/kernelcoffee", "updated": "2026-05-06T16:50:41+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/oka6kgh/", "content": "Get a job, part time where you can do something else but still occupy your time with no stress since you technically don't need the money.\n Something like a cat/puppy café photographer or volunteer to shelter to rescue animals.\n Skies is the limit when what you are looking for is occupying your time.\n Literally, friend of mine is fired, he's on his way to become a flight instructor, because why not." }, { "id": "t1_oka6kst", "author": "/u/Extreme_Bit_1135", "updated": "2026-05-06T16:50:43+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/oka6kst/", "content": "Donate 1/3 of your retirement portfolio. Go back to work. Problem solved. You're welcome." }, { "id": "t1_oka6toi", "author": "/u/No-Savings-6333", "updated": "2026-05-06T16:51:48+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/oka6toi/", "content": "Do you have a partner? Plans to have a family? I think part of the 30s alienation is due to people finding their person and settling down. My friends and family just have less and less time to hang out since they work and then want to spend the rest of their free time with their partners and/or kids." }, { "id": "t1_oka6y56", "author": "/u/AphelionEntity", "updated": "2026-05-06T16:52:21+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/oka6y56/", "content": "I had an extended period of time off after a procedure (months) and ended up running in international gaming circles. Not the same as having in person friends, but I would have been incredibly isolated if not for that.\n I think this is part of why people volunteer when they retire so early." }, { "id": "t1_oka6zvc", "author": "/u/teslastats", "updated": "2026-05-06T16:52:33+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/oka6zvc/", "content": "A friend of mine retired around the same age and bought a few condos as investment to keep him busy, but after moving to a city he wanted to retire in (phoenix). He didn't do it at first, but over time.\n Having the luxury of time will open up new opportunities, you just have to look with the new mindset." }, { "id": "t1_oka6zx9", "author": "/u/Louis-Russ", "updated": "2026-05-06T16:52:34+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/oka6zx9/", "content": "Reminds me of working retail. I used to work Wednesday-Sunday, then have Monday and Tuesday off. Suffice to say, it's hard to get much of a party going on Monday night." }, { "id": "t1_oka7hia", "author": "/u/zatsnotmyname", "updated": "2026-05-06T16:54:43+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/oka7hia/", "content": "This is one reason why I haven't pulled the trigger. Not enough social interactive baked in to the rest of my life. Work gives you social interaction, purpose and money. Retirement gives you time to pursue these, but you have to do the heavy lifting to make it happen." }, { "id": "t1_oka7vtg", "author": "/u/Fun-Persimmon186", "updated": "2026-05-06T16:56:26+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/oka7vtg/", "content": "Why not start a discord server for folks here? I fired almost two years ago and I also feel some of this." }, { "id": "t1_oka7whv", "author": "/u/Car369blue369", "updated": "2026-05-06T16:56:31+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/oka7whv/", "content": "Volunteer" }, { "id": "t1_oka7xmd", "author": "/u/NeoPrimitiveOasis", "updated": "2026-05-06T16:56:39+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/oka7xmd/", "content": "Travel to Thailand. Learn to write fiction. Get a black belt in karate. Volunteer for the many needy people. Lobby for political change. There are many ways to spend your time." }, { "id": "t1_oka7y3o", "author": "/u/Beantowntommy", "updated": "2026-05-06T16:56:43+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/oka7y3o/", "content": "Find a hobby! You’ll also likely have to make new friends that are more on your schedule.\n That doesn’t mean get rid of your old friends, but you gotta find something to pass the time.\n You could also pick up another gig. Start bartending, join a charity. Not for the income but because without the financial strain, those can be fun things to do. And if you don’t like em, nothing wrong with quitting cause you don’t need the money." }, { "id": "t1_oka7yqf", "author": "/u/DecentDiscipline2523", "updated": "2026-05-06T16:56:47+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/oka7yqf/", "content": "Live near a beach? And/or near a big metro area? Learn water activities, participate in conservation, find ways to help those in need, start a non profit, participate in mentoring, teach free classes to underprivileged kids and adults.. so many things.\n First relax and don’t go down a spiral. I’m sure there’s lots of interesting things you can get into.. I would just observe all these opportunities for a while and keep an open mind. Then try to find a way to participate.. anyways that’s just me imagining.. back to my 9-5! 😆" }, { "id": "t1_oka7zz2", "author": "/u/puggybear_momma", "updated": "2026-05-06T16:56:57+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/oka7zz2/", "content": "No lie, try jiu jitsu. Many gyms have mid day classes and eventually you'll make friends with people from a variety of backgrounds and of all ages. Also, there's a camaraderie because you are all suffering together LOL." }, { "id": "t1_oka822z", "author": "/u/Numerous-Cup1863", "updated": "2026-05-06T16:57:12+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/oka822z/", "content": "Hang out at the local yoga classes with the stay at home moms. I’m sure their working husbands would love that." }, { "id": "t1_oka82w8", "author": "/u/Kinnins0n", "updated": "2026-05-06T16:57:18+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/oka82w8/", "content": "Are you seriously surprised your full-time employed friends don’t log into a video game lobby on Tuesday afternoons? Are you also surprised your friends with newborns don’t hang out in the club on Saturday nights at 2am, by any chance?\n I dunno if its a psyops but this sub is rapidly becoming “don’t FIRE! it sucks!!”. People need to learn how to be when they are not on a (usually corporate) leash." }, { "id": "t1_oka857p", "author": "/u/rainyelfwich", "updated": "2026-05-06T16:57:35+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/oka857p/", "content": "Why do I see so many posts here with this same weird tone and language - AI slop?" }, { "id": "t1_oka879g", "author": "/u/The_Motley_Fool----", "updated": "2026-05-06T16:57:49+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/oka879g/", "content": "You now have the time for epic adventures. Hike the PCT, ride the Great Divide Mountain Bike trail." }, { "id": "t1_oka89gl", "author": "/u/joepagac", "updated": "2026-05-06T16:58:05+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/oka89gl/", "content": "My buddy retired at 39. He became a raging alcoholic who spends all day on social media trolling people. And occasionally he hikes." }, { "id": "t1_oka8a45", "author": "/u/Lyra_Hime", "updated": "2026-05-06T16:58:10+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/oka8a45/", "content": "Not in your situation but I’m your same age. Got laid off from engineering during COVID and became a stay at home mom for a few years before heading back to work. I told myself it was like a mini retirement. That isolation is common with stay at home parents too. Maybe there are some friends you could make that can lunch with you in that group. They are bored and really want other adults to talk to." }, { "id": "t1_oka8qbw", "author": "/u/daydream6666", "updated": "2026-05-06T17:00:06+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/oka8qbw/", "content": "i mean yah most people are barely getting by right now so …" }, { "id": "t1_oka8tyb", "author": "/u/CommunicationNo4547", "updated": "2026-05-06T17:00:33+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/oka8tyb/", "content": "Whats worse being isolated and living how you want at 36 or wasting your life in the rat race?" }, { "id": "t1_oka8vy2", "author": "/u/Puzzleheaded_Lion234", "updated": "2026-05-06T17:00:48+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/oka8vy2/", "content": "At that age, you’re too young to sit around and watch the markets. Go do something, anything. You got decades left of sound mind and body. You don’t need to work but you gotta do something to fill the void" }, { "id": "t1_oka90xx", "author": "/u/HappyTendency", "updated": "2026-05-06T17:01:23+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/oka90xx/", "content": "Move to a tropical island" }, { "id": "t1_oka95ls", "author": "/u/thebaziel", "updated": "2026-05-06T17:01:57+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/oka95ls/", "content": "During an accidental time off work last year, I really clocked in a lot of hours at the local pottery studio. It can take a bit to get any good, but it’s a fun hobby and there’s a community of people who are always in the studio to chat with. Some of the folks are 9-5ers who will only be in on weekends and the evenings, and some will be retired, but other people will be full time artists who will let you admire their work and ask questions, or people with jobs in restaurants or bars or any manner of odd hours things and they’ll be there working on their pottery during the day. Yet more will be like I was, out of work and trying to keep a schedule while they look.\n Additionally, if you enjoy it and get any good, you can always sell your work at an occasional craft fair or art walk or local cafe, and then when someone asks you what you do, and you don’t want to get into FIRE with them, you can say you own a ceramics business. No, it’s as not lucrative as your last career, but it’s really fun." }, { "id": "t1_oka97bg", "author": "/u/TheGreatBeauty2000", "updated": "2026-05-06T17:02:09+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/oka97bg/", "content": "Get laid. You can do it!" }, { "id": "t1_oka9b2o", "author": "/u/Salty_Year6502", "updated": "2026-05-06T17:02:37+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/oka9b2o/", "content": "Time to start training for a marathon and join a run club." }, { "id": "t1_oka9f7s", "author": "/u/wmanns11", "updated": "2026-05-06T17:03:07+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/oka9f7s/", "content": "Have children? That will keep you busy and happy for a while" }, { "id": "t1_oka9ggt", "author": "/u/wmanns11", "updated": "2026-05-06T17:03:16+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/oka9ggt/", "content": "Have children? That will keep you busy and happy for a while" }, { "id": "t1_oka9m2g", "author": "/u/jimRacer642", "updated": "2026-05-06T17:03:56+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/oka9m2g/", "content": "Did you not realize after a long weekend that you'd be bored of being retired fulltime?" }, { "id": "t1_oka9oh4", "author": "/u/ImprovementChoice", "updated": "2026-05-06T17:04:12+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/oka9oh4/", "content": "Yeah I can see this. I feel like most people who are not working are stay at home parents who want to meet up for a play date or actual retirees. Do you have something you've always wanted to pursue? A hobby or business idea? That would be a great conversation piece even if you're not grinding to hit Q4 metrics." }, { "id": "t1_oka9t40", "author": "/u/fatheadlifter", "updated": "2026-05-06T17:04:46+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/oka9t40/", "content": "You're in an extremely rare spot. Rarity will lead to loneliness.\n You identified the cure, you need to find the right group of people to socialize with. But those people are also very rare, young financially independent people who escaped the workday.\n Ok so just because those people rarely exist doesn't mean they're not worth looking for. I hope this thread helps you find some of them. Feel free to DM me if you want to just shoot the shit. I am older than you though, but I don't have grandkids nor hip replacements. 52 and very much still young." }, { "id": "t1_oka9w6y", "author": "/u/jimRacer642", "updated": "2026-05-06T17:05:08+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/oka9w6y/", "content": "Also, if you consider being FIRE just cause of the market, think again, it can dip at any time. Unless you have the cold hard cash at hand, your retirement is still not bullet proof." }, { "id": "t1_okaa0wk", "author": "/u/Time-Green-2103", "updated": "2026-05-06T17:05:41+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/okaa0wk/", "content": "Take up golf. You’re welcome" }, { "id": "t1_okaa3hi", "author": "/u/CoherentParticles", "updated": "2026-05-06T17:05:59+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/okaa3hi/", "content": "Dude. Definitely know the feeling.\n But 36?!!!\n 31 year me had to get away from the rat race and wandered the planet for almost 2 years...backpacking / hostels and sometimes hotels, sometimes volunteering...ended up meeting my wife of 25 years.\n Go see the world man! YOLO" }, { "id": "t1_okaa4y8", "author": "/u/TooMuchButtHair", "updated": "2026-05-06T17:06:10+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/okaa4y8/", "content": "I'm a teacher, and this is exactly how I feel on summer break.\n Try disc golf, a writing club, etc. There are LOADS of people out there, you just have to know where exactly to look." }, { "id": "t1_okaabm0", "author": "/u/matthew19", "updated": "2026-05-06T17:06:58+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/okaabm0/", "content": "Start BJJ and go to lunch classes." }, { "id": "t1_okaar6t", "author": "/u/Potential_Lie_1177", "updated": "2026-05-06T17:08:50+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/okaar6t/", "content": "I have a friend who retired early. Good for her, she worked hard and saved a lot. But she bores me to death about her complaints about having to do laundry or whatever minor things that we all have to do ontop of work and family duties.\n She also started to share stupid meme like my elderly parents, I fear for her lack of intellectual stimulation. At least she is aware that most retiree are at least a decade older, what did you expect?\n It is not because I resent her situation, she was way more dynamic and upbeat before, even if we were all short on time. But stuff she shares nowadays goes straight into the trash, there is a disconnect because she is just bored and frankly repetitive and boring." }, { "id": "t1_okaat7n", "author": "/u/GFit11", "updated": "2026-05-06T17:09:05+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/okaat7n/", "content": "Instead of inspirational or even motivational I find the majority of posts in this sub are just depressing, entitled and out of touch with what real problems look like." }, { "id": "t1_okaauhg", "author": "/u/Electrical_Voice_119", "updated": "2026-05-06T17:09:14+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/okaauhg/", "content": "The problem is you changed your career but didn’t change your life to fit it. Either mover or get a part time job. My recommendation would be to find a a fire community or digital nomad community. If you are into sailing Marathon Fl or Georgetown Bahamas is loaded with retirees your age. My wife and I have kids and travel full time with a group of friends. If you sell all your shit you can probably travel full time for less than your current life style is costing you. Either way get new friends" }, { "id": "t1_okab3ek", "author": "/u/geomaster", "updated": "2026-05-06T17:10:16+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/okab3ek/", "content": "well did you trial run this like maybe had a summer off to see how it'd go? I recall having a great time with a wide open summer and friends who worked but had weekdays free to go do stuff. sure some friends were significantly older but it isn't that big deal if you have shared interests" }, { "id": "t1_okab65a", "author": "/u/cfrolik", "updated": "2026-05-06T17:10:36+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/okab65a/", "content": "Working on my personal projects solo sounds like a dream. Maybe you are an extrovert though." }, { "id": "t1_okab8ec", "author": "/u/b1gb0n312", "updated": "2026-05-06T17:10:51+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/okab8ec/", "content": "Not fired yet, but I don't think any of my friends like to talk about work outside of work and neither do i. It gets old and stale fast when people talk about work outside of work for more than a quick minute and it's not like everyone is working at the same place or field." }, { "id": "t1_okabgoy", "author": "/u/art-is-t", "updated": "2026-05-06T17:11:49+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/okabgoy/", "content": "There are only a million posts about not doing this on this subreddit" }, { "id": "t1_okac0ps", "author": "/u/Elrohwen", "updated": "2026-05-06T17:14:08+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/okac0ps/", "content": "My primary hobby is filled with retirees and I love hanging out with them and I’m not much older than you. You may need to broaden your idea of who makes a good friend" }, { "id": "t1_okac5cz", "author": "/u/jonnyd11", "updated": "2026-05-06T17:14:40+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/okac5cz/", "content": "Friends in early retirement end up being way younger or older....most 30/40s people are working and raising kids and have no time except for sometime on the weekends. Branch out and try some new hobbies and be open to making friends that aren't your age...not like it matters much anyway. I also found most work friends are really only connected due to shared work venting and all but one has disappeared due to this...it's a normal part of fire 😄" }, { "id": "t1_okaci0x", "author": "/u/Reasonable_Box2568", "updated": "2026-05-06T17:16:08+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/okaci0x/", "content": "What are your numbers out of curiosity? Do you have a spouse?" }, { "id": "t1_okaciyl", "author": "/u/alrachid", "updated": "2026-05-06T17:16:15+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/okaciyl/", "content": "I learned from self employment on my computer that reduced human interaction is dangerous. For me, I basically forgot how to have confidence talking to people I didn’t know. My social anxiety went through the roof." }, { "id": "t1_okaclkd", "author": "/u/AnonymousTaco77", "updated": "2026-05-06T17:16:33+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/okaclkd/", "content": "This is a big reason I don’t plan to retire early, at least not until I’m married and we both can. Life is better when you have some structure, and I’m just so busy all the time it’d be weird to go from 100 down to 0.\n I highly recommend doing jiu-jitsu. It’s not everyone’s cup of tea, but I know at my gym there’s a lot of people around your age who go to the noon jiu-jitsu class. Those people are largely going in the middle of their workday, but it’s a good way to socialize and stay in shape when most people are busy at work." }, { "id": "t1_okacof1", "author": "/u/honey-squirrel", "updated": "2026-05-06T17:16:54+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/okacof1/", "content": "You need to find a new purpose beyond a paycheck. A new "fun routine" with some key out of the ordinary experiences. Passive leisure is monotonous and dull. Start brainstorming and reflecting on these components.\n 1) What are some new skills you would like to develop? Learn a new language? How to play chess? Master a musical instrument?\n 2) What kind of physical fitness activities interest you? Martial arts? Kayaking? Swimming? Cycling?\n 3) How would you like to express yourself creatively? Woodworking? Painting? Creative writing? Baking?\n 4) Find your tribe. Expand your world view. Volunteer for a cause you're passionate about. Check out Meetup and join or start a group. Go on an active group vacation (like a learn to scuba trip, a biking trip, surf lessons in Costa Rica). Flash Pack and FTLO travel have lots of cool options.\n Also, avoid too much time on passive timesucks like tv binge watching and social media scrolling. Get out there! Enjoy life and be thankful you have the time and energy to follow your interests instead of being a wage slave til old age." }, { "id": "t1_okacpy0", "author": "/u/SotMe666", "updated": "2026-05-06T17:17:05+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/okacpy0/", "content": "They want you to work and feel alone when you don't have to. I guess that's one of the reasons people go back to work. Maybe try mentoring your friends and family about fire?" }, { "id": "t1_okacqtl", "author": "/u/aletale9", "updated": "2026-05-06T17:17:11+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/okacqtl/", "content": "As a 20-something that has a large friend group of 50-somethings, you have plenty in common. If you need someone to go on a random road trip on a Wednesday morning, try dating? This post is ridiculous." }, { "id": "t1_okad1vd", "author": "/u/Dull_Vast_5570", "updated": "2026-05-06T17:18:28+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/okad1vd/", "content": "It won't solve everything, but I'd consider getting a dog. You'll meet lots of dog owners that way.\n An obvious downside is that it makes it harder to travel. You can get attached and not want to leave the dog, especially if you don't have family or a close friend you trust to take good care of them." }, { "id": "t1_okad7k4", "author": "/u/MaxwellSmart07", "updated": "2026-05-06T17:19:09+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/okad7k4/", "content": "That’s what happens sometimes when life in 20’s and 30’s are all work and saving every nickel." }, { "id": "t1_okad9qf", "author": "/u/scienceprodigy", "updated": "2026-05-06T17:19:24+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/okad9qf/", "content": "Also in tech but didn’t learn the FAANG secret to early retirement until a decade in. What city you in?" }, { "id": "t1_okadaq9", "author": "/u/Few_Ad_7572", "updated": "2026-05-06T17:19:31+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/okadaq9/", "content": "I’m looking to work on a pet project that requires a backend dev. An iOS dev and myself (Android dev) are looking to just build out something this year, but we don’t have a backend dev. Maybe you could help with that. Not sure it aligns with FIRE. I still have 3-4 more years to go before I can FIRE. But I’m afraid I’ll be bored so I’m trying to start a pet project to satisfy my boredom" }, { "id": "t1_okadlcv", "author": "/u/twzill", "updated": "2026-05-06T17:20:46+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/okadlcv/", "content": "Our society used to have social clubs, Elks, Rotary, card clubs, and fraternal organizations but many of these are gone or are much smaller than they used to be.\n I am a member of our local German club, the Liederkranz. It started in the 1800’s as a singing (and beer drinking) society for German immigrants.\n Today our club has a bowling alley, dance hall, restaurant and a great Biergarten. We are volunteer run but we do have a small staff. I have met some of my best friends volunteering to put on Oktoberfests and New Year’s Eve party’s.\n Our society needs more of these clubs and my suggestion is to volunteer in organizations that have like minded people. My wife’s best friends are all part of a French Bulldog club. So the variety of clubs that exist are tremendous. This won’t solve all of your concerns but you might find a new purpose in life." }, { "id": "t1_okadtmi", "author": "/u/gatari-chan", "updated": "2026-05-06T17:21:44+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/okadtmi/", "content": "Look into volunteering- I run a small nonprofit and am always desperate for people during the work week." }, { "id": "t1_okae2uz", "author": "/u/infiniterewards", "updated": "2026-05-06T17:22:49+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/okae2uz/", "content": "I worked on side projects, then eventually just got a job again as it's actually quite fun to work. Especially when you know you don't need to, get to be more selective on the companies and take your time looking" }, { "id": "t1_okae902", "author": "/u/octopus-opinion987", "updated": "2026-05-06T17:23:33+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/okae902/", "content": "Go back to school part time for something interesting and different. Masters programs will have a mixed age range" }, { "id": "t1_okae9nl", "author": "/u/THC3883", "updated": "2026-05-06T17:23:38+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/okae9nl/", "content": "Why don't you find time to actually do something productive with your life now that you have earned economic freedom? That, or just go ahead and brainrot. Jesus Christ, it's not brain surgery." }, { "id": "t1_okaeb41", "author": "/u/DarceFarce", "updated": "2026-05-06T17:23:48+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/okaeb41/", "content": "Join a jiujitsu gym. Many have classes in the morning, at noon, and in the evening. It's a great way to socialize as an adult, you'll meet countless interesting people, it'll give you something to strive for or work at to be better which is what every human really needs, and it'll help keep you in semi decent shape if you don't like working out. Jiujitsu is for the FIRE community lol." }, { "id": "t1_okaejee", "author": "/u/Nectarine-Happy", "updated": "2026-05-06T17:24:47+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/okaejee/", "content": "Have kids! You can stay home and enjoy them for years😊" }, { "id": "t1_okaenbz", "author": "/u/Chokedee-bp", "updated": "2026-05-06T17:25:14+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/okaenbz/", "content": "I think I would be volunteering in OPs position.\n Try to help a youth group looking for role models or financial planning assistance for the less fortunate that’s what I would do with too much free time" }, { "id": "t1_okaeogr", "author": "/u/lark0317", "updated": "2026-05-06T17:25:22+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/okaeogr/", "content": "At 36 you are still pretty young, and I think there's a difference between stepping away when you are 30 years younger than the standard retirement age and stepping away when you are 10 to 15 years younger than the standard. The burnout you feel in your 50s is deeper than the burnout you feel in your 30s. It just is.\n All that said, I think America is an isolated and lonely country that is obsessed with the illusion of productivity as a distraction from that emptiness. It's a system where whoever stays distracted until they die "wins". Everybody is playing that game and it takes some mental fortitude to step outside of that paradigm. You have to be ready, and I think many in their 30s are not ready yet. You need more work-based suffering and disillusionment to get there. Lol" }, { "id": "t1_okaexiz", "author": "/u/MainEnAcier", "updated": "2026-05-06T17:26:26+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/okaexiz/", "content": "When you build your identity on your work...\n take this time to maybe help some organisation like boyscout or smtg like that." }, { "id": "t1_okaf07h", "author": "/u/Number_Fluffy", "updated": "2026-05-06T17:26:45+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/okaf07h/", "content": "Volunteer. Help others while occupying yourself." }, { "id": "t1_okaf4sc", "author": "/u/Truthcraze", "updated": "2026-05-06T17:27:17+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/okaf4sc/", "content": "Get married and have kids, mister free time." }, { "id": "t1_okaf73e", "author": "/u/wisenedPanda", "updated": "2026-05-06T17:27:34+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/okaf73e/", "content": "There was discussion today in r/personalfinancecanada about this. Specifically that retiring early can lead to cognitive decline.\n You need to actively plan to live your life and keep your brain active and motivated. Volunteering, joining clubs and teams, taking courses, part time job etc are all avenues if you dont want to start withering away." }, { "id": "t1_okaf7hw", "author": "/u/MrRanney", "updated": "2026-05-06T17:27:37+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/okaf7hw/", "content": "All I have to contribute is one simple thing; don't identify with or think about your age. My fiancé has an impressive mental fortitude and I was going through a severe midlife crisis. She gave me that simple advice and since I realized age really is a number, and that I'm way healthier than most my age, I've forgotten my age and have been happy since. No one knows the "correct" way to live life. There are simply cogs in the machine and then there is you. Live and sculpt your life how you'd like to. Heck, you have to much time that you can become an expert in a field and shoot for the stars; I'm doing that with jazz piano and a 8-3... not easy but very fun and meaningful. I would encourage you to try and find others in a similar predicament or role models to follow." }, { "id": "t1_okaf93s", "author": "/u/When_I_Grow_Up_50ish", "updated": "2026-05-06T17:27:48+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/okaf93s/", "content": "Find your tribe. It’s out there." }, { "id": "t1_okafavr", "author": "/u/izzyjrp", "updated": "2026-05-06T17:28:01+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/okafavr/", "content": "Sounds like your friends and your previous identity was tied to your jobs.\n Thats not friendship. Friendships are tied to experiences with each other." }, { "id": "t1_okafpo5", "author": "/u/tallguy1975", "updated": "2026-05-06T17:29:45+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/okafpo5/", "content": "Go travelling" }, { "id": "t1_okag1w1", "author": "/u/DepartmentEcstatic", "updated": "2026-05-06T17:31:11+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/okag1w1/", "content": "My advice is to get out there and travel, explore and get in touch with the outdoors. We meet people in their '20s and '30s all the time who live very alternative lives, some traveling nurses who only work a few months out of the year and travel the rest of the time, others who possibly have a summer job or even a winter job as a medic on the ski slopes and make life about adventure and whatever outdoor hobbies they have, rock climbing, hiking.\n We visit a lot of hot springs and always meet the most interesting people and some who have become friends for years. Those are kind of the go-to for nature lovers after doing activities like mountain biking and climbing. Many van lifers out there who work remotely, create content, or work very little and have an abundance of time for hobbies and exploration." }, { "id": "t1_okagfhe", "author": "/u/Illustrious_Ad675", "updated": "2026-05-06T17:32:47+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/okagfhe/", "content": "I’m 36 and feel this just working from home." }, { "id": "t1_okagpen", "author": "/u/adaniel65", "updated": "2026-05-06T17:33:57+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/okagpen/", "content": "If you like bicycling try linkmyride DOT COM or riderfinder app. You can also grab a backpack and head out to SouthEast Asia and do the tour out there. You'll just have to go be social in the activities you want to do. Also realize that your buddies are still on the 9-5 thing and hence will not be able to join you as you are onto your own time schedule. Go find your tribe! Congratulations by the way! Enjoy your freedom and...... GFY! 🫵👏✌️" }, { "id": "t1_okagv1m", "author": "/u/eggbert1234", "updated": "2026-05-06T17:34:36+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/okagv1m/", "content": "I've always been wanting to volunteer and drive kids, disabled or elderly people around, if i didnt have to work for a living. Or something else, that does not bring in money, but good experiences by helping others." }, { "id": "t1_okah4fy", "author": "/u/Striking_Use8614", "updated": "2026-05-06T17:35:42+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/okah4fy/", "content": "Just fired myself but my purpose was to take care of a parent who health suddenly turned. Constant doctor appointments take up a lot of time.\n This is what I have done - go to the gym everyday, volunteer at my local community garden gets you outside and the people are cool.\n Is there a non-profit that could use your expertise? It's probably not the too much time but the lack of purpose and feeling of accomplishment.\n Also don't get hung up on age make friends with the boomers you can learn a lot from them." }, { "id": "t1_okahbi4", "author": "/u/Popular-Capital6330", "updated": "2026-05-06T17:36:33+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/okahbi4/", "content": "I FIRED at 53, I feel you, the isolation is real. In fact, it must be even worse for you" }, { "id": "t1_okahioq", "author": "/u/joshbiloxi", "updated": "2026-05-06T17:37:24+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/okahioq/", "content": "Try being alone while working a career. You lack perspective. Join a club, volunteer, learn a language." }, { "id": "t1_okahsc3", "author": "/u/fat_pylori", "updated": "2026-05-06T17:38:32+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/okahsc3/", "content": "Forgot the world doesn’t revolve around you? Why would you retire with nothing to fill your days? No kids or family? Bad judgement" }, { "id": "t1_okai1tt", "author": "/u/Rushedhomeroughyn", "updated": "2026-05-06T17:39:40+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/okai1tt/", "content": "What’s the purpose of retiring if you have nothing to do? That’s never made much sense to me. When I semi retire in the next 5 to 7 years, I’ll fill my days with things I enjoy and work.\n If you’re retiring at 36, I feel like the conversation should be more like “oh shit, I love sailing, I’m gonna sail all the time” or “I’m gonna golf five days a week” or “my wife and I are gonna travel” or “we’re gonna buy property in the mountains, build a house, garden, raise chickens and goats.” Something.\n Retiring at 36 with no purpose or direction just sounds silly to me. Start a business, build something, find something you actually enjoy doing. You really haven’t grinded that long at 36. Even if you started young, you’ve probably only truly been in the workforce 12 to 15 years max. Come on.\n Honestly, this sounds more like something written by somebody bored at work than somebody actually retired.\n Edit: definitely somebody that’s not retired and this is just creative writing" }, { "id": "t1_okaid8m", "author": "/u/R1T-wino", "updated": "2026-05-06T17:41:00+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/okaid8m/", "content": "You can live the country club life. Get a job as a Marshall. If I were in your shoes, I’d get a job at Costco or something like that. Everyone seems to like their jobs, plenty of socialization, and great benefits." }, { "id": "t1_okaigdh", "author": "/u/BrindlePitty", "updated": "2026-05-06T17:41:23+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/okaigdh/", "content": "You need something rewarding my friend.\n We foster abuse case pitbulls. It's basically free since the shelter provides food meds equipment etc .. all you have to do is rehab them back from heartworm, starvation, physical abuse, and take them to events and promote them until they get adopted. All it requires is time and patience.\n Incredibly rewarding. We get Christmas cards from all the families and it's amazing to see something that was so broken and literally discarded like trash flourish into a thriving member of their family.\n Just email your shelter and they'll get you started.You'll meet a ton of like minded individuals, if this is your thing.\n Good luck!" }, { "id": "t1_okaih0a", "author": "/u/MishkaShubaly", "updated": "2026-05-06T17:41:27+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/okaih0a/", "content": "I feel this. Not retired but my ship came in as a writer in my 30s when all my friends were grinding and for the last fifteen years, I’ve struggled with boredom, isolation, etc. I learned how to fix and build guitars, I learned how to fix cars, I got into hunting, I spend dedicated time each day with my dog… I finally got married a couple years ago and that’s helped tremendously but I still miss the camaraderie and company of working in a bar. 1st world problems, but they are problems nonetheless." }, { "id": "t1_okaih4f", "author": "/u/Long-Jackfruit427", "updated": "2026-05-06T17:41:28+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/okaih4f/", "content": "Thanks for your honest post. I’m 58. Could retire but go to work every day for insurance and something to do. I think I’ll actually do it in about two years.\n At your age you might want to dive all into a physical hobby. Were I to do it now I would probably spend the first year backpacking or otherwise living like a bum. I very much enjoy nature.\n Any inclination to go back to school?" }, { "id": "t1_okaimc6", "author": "/u/DangerCastle", "updated": "2026-05-06T17:42:05+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/okaimc6/", "content": "I've seen a lot of posts like this. Perhaps fires need to start a support group, OP is probably in a HCOL with plenty of other fire success stories. Get together, share your isolation trauma." }, { "id": "t1_okait4w", "author": "/u/Milwaukee2021", "updated": "2026-05-06T17:42:53+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/okait4w/", "content": "If you have enough money need to move to bigger city downtown chicago or try dating a nurse., they have big time gaps between work" }, { "id": "t1_okaixii", "author": "/u/IRAgotmytongue", "updated": "2026-05-06T17:43:24+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/okaixii/", "content": "People can never be happy. First the grind to be rich and once they get the riches, they complain about lack of purpose.\n Sorry I stopped reading after the first few lines\n Maybe early retirement isn’t for everyone. Or maybe you should put things in perspective, like how so many people are struggling to even find a job, to find your peace." }, { "id": "t1_okaj0ca", "author": "/u/oblivigus", "updated": "2026-05-06T17:43:44+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/okaj0ca/", "content": "I have found volunteer work during business hours to be a great outlet. I go for 3 hours shifts on the same couple of days each week, and have found a little community in that space." }, { "id": "t1_okajbd7", "author": "/u/kaswing", "updated": "2026-05-06T17:45:02+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/okajbd7/", "content": "I have no idea what you like to do, but here are the things I want to do in retirement:\n - write (more). I have written a nonfiction book, but I want to get into fiction. Would not be a good use of my time right now because it's so unlikely to work out, but after retirement will be perfect.\n - Art. I used to take art classes in college. It was so fun, but not something I want to sell or monetize. Ceramics?\n - Take the train. The dream really is doing another USARail pass journey and writing the entire time. Oh, also ViaRail!\n - work on my podcast. We are about to launch, and can only go every other week for now because we both have jobs. I also have to pay an editor. If I were retired, I could invest a lot more time in making and promoting the podcast.\n - giving talks. I love teaching, hate lesson planning and grading. But giving talks at libraries, schools, conferences, is the best. It makes a little, but not nearly enough to live on right now. The dream would be to take the train on a book tour!\n - train for something. For me, a big backpacking trip.\n - go back to school. An MFA in writing would make absolutely no sense right now, but if I were retired? hell yeah." }, { "id": "t1_okajqg4", "author": "/u/alloutofchewingum", "updated": "2026-05-06T17:46:48+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/okajqg4/", "content": "Invest in property. Gives you something to do occasionally and generates solid returns." }, { "id": "t1_okajyn3", "author": "/u/LizzyDragon84", "updated": "2026-05-06T17:47:46+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/okajyn3/", "content": "Volunteer work? When I was between jobs, volunteering at a food bank kept me connected with the community and other regular volunteers. It also helped me maintain a routine." }, { "id": "t1_okajzz7", "author": "/u/EnvironmentalMix421", "updated": "2026-05-06T17:47:56+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/okajzz7/", "content": "Are you lean? If you are fat firing at 36, then I don’t think that would be an issue at all. That’s why there’s no way I am firing with decent paying cushy job. That’s like not fulfilling what my life could be." }, { "id": "t1_okakfsd", "author": "/u/HairyBushies", "updated": "2026-05-06T17:49:48+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/okakfsd/", "content": "Wanna trade places? I have 2-3 years to go and my cannot wait. Granted I’m older than you but still. Two observations:\n 1) Don’t discount hanging out with some older folks. I have a group of guys I hang out with fairly regularly and they’re all at least 25 years older. You might just learn something if you can keep an open mind. That wisdom will come with talks of grandkids, hip replacements, etc. but is still valuable.\n 2) Early retirement may be more suited to folks that are more introverted. I’m one of those folks. I don’t like crowds and while I will go to certain events with my girlfriend, my social energy has a limit. I’m done 2-3 hours in and she can keep going. I like having people around but am very happy to just sit there and let them prattle along. That vibe suits me and what you’ve described in your early retirement would be totally fine with me!" }, { "id": "t1_okakglq", "author": "/u/pineapples-for-pizza", "updated": "2026-05-06T17:49:54+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/okakglq/", "content": "I fired 2 years ago at 45 so a bit older than you. I'm still friends with people I was actually friends with before (not work friends, those fell apart as soon as we didn't have work to complain about) but, ya, they are busier than me. I made new friends. Many retired, and sure they have different complaints than me, but since I met them through hobbies we have shared interests too. I don't mind listening about whatever surgery, ache, whatever. They are my friend and they listen to my gripes too. I also met some people that work evenings and we'll hang out during the week days sometimes. But a lot of time I do stuff by myself. It's nice really. I'll go to museums, botanical gardens, hiking, etc. I also have several hobbies like fitness, ceramics, painting, and knitting. I go to studios, classes, and meet ups. I suggest you get some more hobbies, go to more events, and get over hang ups about being friends with "old" people. I felt the same as you at first but it changed over time." }, { "id": "t1_okakmlz", "author": "/u/No-Produce-923", "updated": "2026-05-06T17:50:37+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/okakmlz/", "content": "Bro what. I work 80hr a week and do 26h shifts without sleep every 3 days. If someone obliterated my med school debt and put 1.5 or 2 million in my account id flip everyone the bird and leave without a second to waste…id be ecstatic. But then again I hear what you’re saying about social stuff… med school and residency have permanently destroyed my drive to socialize so I just feel nothing but joy when I’m well rested and not at work." }, { "id": "t1_okakwlx", "author": "/u/greatauntflossy", "updated": "2026-05-06T17:51:48+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/okakwlx/", "content": "Took me over a year to build my new rhythm. Just give it time and keep intentionally working on it. Take classes, go to the gym, talk to people, find local FI meetups, etc. It won't materialize on its own and does take consistent effort." }, { "id": "t1_okalinj", "author": "/u/Comfortable_Twist774", "updated": "2026-05-06T17:54:23+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/okalinj/", "content": "Attend a local community College and take classes on things that interest you" }, { "id": "t1_okalnk9", "author": "/u/Bright_Meat820", "updated": "2026-05-06T17:54:58+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/okalnk9/", "content": "It’s ok. If you began dreaming of retirement in your early 20s, and grinded to achieve it at 36, it means you absolutely were in the wrong career and have not yet found your calling. There’s nothing wrong with working or inherently bad about it.\n You shouldn’t retire in your 30s, you can only pivot to do what you truly love and find work and purpose that is meaningful to you.\n If you’ve retired at 36 you need to try that acting career you once dreamed of, start that band, buty a camera and intern at National Geographic, become a journalist, explore that painting talent you had, begin the novel/screenplay, approach universities and inquire about their archaeology programs and volunteer for the next dig, night law school and then work for the public defenders office or charities, start a bakery if you know how, etc…\n You didn’t retire, you are about to start the career you’d actually want if money wasn’t all that mattered. Limiting yourself to light hobbies because there’s stigma to doing something that can be seen as work when you’re only 36 years is hurting yourself. You might actually be truly great at something you truly love doing." }, { "id": "t1_okalnsk", "author": "/u/A70MU", "updated": "2026-05-06T17:55:00+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/okalnsk/", "content": "you needed to look busy to not feel like a loser, we have very different definitions of loser and in order to be FIRE and happy you probably need to change this mindset." }, { "id": "t1_okalr9j", "author": "/u/alextr85", "updated": "2026-05-06T17:55:24+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/okalr9j/", "content": "Que envidia 😅" }, { "id": "t1_okam70q", "author": "/u/hadee75", "updated": "2026-05-06T17:57:15+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/okam70q/", "content": "What were your numbers when you retired and what are they today?" }, { "id": "t1_okam8qo", "author": "/u/IncredibleWin", "updated": "2026-05-06T17:57:27+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/okam8qo/", "content": "Start up golfing" }, { "id": "t1_okamq6v", "author": "/u/Equivalent-Glove7165", "updated": "2026-05-06T17:59:30+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/okamq6v/", "content": "Go get a job doing something random (and fun). You can always quit if it sucks ass." }, { "id": "t1_okamrjp", "author": "/u/jjtga11", "updated": "2026-05-06T17:59:40+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/okamrjp/", "content": "$5 million is a nightmare" }, { "id": "t1_okan0g6", "author": "/u/Guapscotch", "updated": "2026-05-06T18:00:44+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/okan0g6/", "content": "What you are witnessing is the overwhelming power of capital" }, { "id": "t1_okan4b9", "author": "/u/billymumfreydownfall", "updated": "2026-05-06T18:01:12+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/okan4b9/", "content": "That's silly. Volunteer, get a part time seasonal job, like-minded friends. Go to a library, hit the gym. Discord is never silent, people from different time zones are there all hours of the day and night.\n This honestly must be a troll because there is just no way in 2026 can you be bored." }, { "id": "t1_okao1fy", "author": "/u/r3dd1tu53r7331", "updated": "2026-05-06T18:05:13+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/okao1fy/", "content": "I was fortunate to have 2 years off from work and all the time in the world. Unfortunately my mates had 9-5s and I didn't have an intensive hobby to pass the time with. Ended up slobbing about and aimless.. Went back into education to pass the time it was a great way out. Back working part time now in an environment that suits" }, { "id": "t1_okaot2l", "author": "/u/Natural_Tea484", "updated": "2026-05-06T18:08:34+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/okaot2l/", "content": "I understand what you mean but what I can say is what would I do if I would retire.\n First, I would definitely try get in shape, build some muscles. I know many people do it without being retired early.\n Second, I would either try read about random non-technical things that I find interesting. For example health related, but also anything that I would find cool to know something about.\n Third, I would spend more time with the close ones. Time is extremely precious and no money and luxury beats spending time with your most close ones.\n Fourth, I would plan going to places I always wanted to see.\n Curious, how much $ you got?" }, { "id": "t1_okaowzp", "author": "/u/BarsoomianAmbassador", "updated": "2026-05-06T18:09:03+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/okaowzp/", "content": "Mid-fifties and they need hip replacements--damn, I guess I'm doing pretty well physically. That being said, I co-own a company with my wife. We work from home and spend almost all of our free time together. It definitely can be isolating, but, thankfully, I married the right person and we have a lot of fun and also challenge each other. We also moved to a new place a few years ago, far from our friends and relatives. I just have fun talking to random strangers wherever I go. I also go to a lot of concerts and met some people that I keep in touch with. Hobbies definitely give you the space to find someone to befriend. It doesn't have to be a deep relationship, but it takes the edge off of the isolation and loneliness. For you specifically--you're young, and hopefully in good health, which means you also have the ability to travel, which I also recommend. Immersing yourself in different cultures brings disorientation on a lot of levels and the boredom dissipates quickly. Anyway--congrats! You have many years ahead of choices and experiences most people will only ever dream about. Enjoy!" }, { "id": "t1_okap1ms", "author": "/u/StrikeScribe", "updated": "2026-05-06T18:09:37+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/okap1ms/", "content": "I'm in my 50s. No desire to give up my low-paying work-from-home, less-toxic job quite yet. I just want to save a ton of money that's invested and keeping slightly ahead of inflation. But that day may come soon when I'm tempted by a buyout offer." }, { "id": "t1_okap7nh", "author": "/u/3bluerose", "updated": "2026-05-06T18:10:21+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/okap7nh/", "content": "Do some kind of volunteering. That way you can bail anytime without consequence and have the potential for socializing" }, { "id": "t1_okapbr3", "author": "/u/JerryJN", "updated": "2026-05-06T18:10:52+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/okapbr3/", "content": "Travel, meet new people. When you find a friendly location settle down there. If I retired at 37 I would buy a 40' Sloop, learn how to sail and navigate like the best of them. Probably relocate to Florida and moor my sloop there. You didn't settle into the retired mindset. If you want to get into boats relocate to Florida during the winter and sail it up to Newport, RI for the summer. If not into boats you could buy a Wrangler Rubicon or Fully Loaded and lifted Bronco and drive out to Utah, check out Bryce Canyon. I'm retired and did that but I traded my Wrangler in for a RAV4 Hybrid Limited. A RAV4 will not survive the Moab.\n Do something adventurous. If Boating and Off-roading doesn't suit you then buy a motorcycle and learn to ride. When you have enough experience you can drive cross country. It's an experience you won't forget.\n You just gotta get out there man. And don't advertise you are retired at 37. You will become an easy mark for grifters. Just say you are in between jobs and decided to take a few years off. Stop sulking, live damn it!" }, { "id": "t1_okapebr", "author": "/u/MplsSnowball", "updated": "2026-05-06T18:11:11+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/okapebr/", "content": "Maybe get into value investing? Many in that community are some version of FIRE and it can take up as much of your time as you are willing to give it on research, etc" }, { "id": "t1_okapitz", "author": "/u/JerryJN", "updated": "2026-05-06T18:11:44+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/okapitz/", "content": "Dude you are doing it all wrong. Read my earlier post." }, { "id": "t1_okapvar", "author": "/u/Pagnus_Melrose", "updated": "2026-05-06T18:13:16+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/okapvar/", "content": "The “I felt like a ghost” line got me 💀" }, { "id": "t1_okapyuw", "author": "/u/smithy-", "updated": "2026-05-06T18:13:42+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/okapyuw/", "content": "The one thing about FIRE is its often only about the self. Learn to use your free time to help the less fortunate and your cup will be filled. I guarantee it." }, { "id": "t1_okapz7r", "author": "/u/IronHellRiver", "updated": "2026-05-06T18:13:44+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/okapz7r/", "content": "Go back to work on your terms. But find meaningful work" }, { "id": "t1_okaq4t4", "author": "/u/Bbmd28", "updated": "2026-05-06T18:14:26+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/okaq4t4/", "content": "Volunteer! I mean it, I've done it during the work day before (though I am still working) and definitely associated with people my age (I'm 37) plus you're helping your community and making the world a better place.\n Check out\n https://activategood.org/\n Personally the kind of volunteer work I like is with my local parks or farms so I also get out and get to be out in nature too.\n I've also volunteered at a local community theater\n Built houses\n Done phone banking\n Helped register people to vote\n I've been on my HOA board\n Volunteered with the museum\n Worked with nonprofits to do digital narketing\n Worked at the women's shelter\n And more!\n You can totally find something you are interested in with people your age." }, { "id": "t1_okaqdha", "author": "/u/the42the", "updated": "2026-05-06T18:15:30+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/okaqdha/", "content": "Same here. Where do you live lol" }, { "id": "t1_okaquut", "author": "/u/Imcluelesstoday", "updated": "2026-05-06T18:17:39+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/okaquut/", "content": "Get a motorcycle. Do a scenic ride, taking pics and Journaling your trip. GL!" }, { "id": "t1_okaqzbk", "author": "/u/krukuk", "updated": "2026-05-06T18:18:12+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/okaqzbk/", "content": "I'd trade places with you in a heartbeat.\n I know my role is going to be closed by the end of the year, possibly sooner, so I need to switch contracts. Been applying for two months, got several tech interviews but no offers. Seems like the job market is now 'check all the boxes' or don't get hired. Employers ain't got no time for learning.\n Thankfully I've a several months cushion. Hopefully I won't be using it.\n What I can advise is - practice gratitude for what you have. Exercise. Meditate." }, { "id": "t1_okar3c6", "author": "/u/Muted_Bother_1440", "updated": "2026-05-06T18:18:41+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/okar3c6/", "content": "Get a mountain bike and gym membership and make your health and fitness your 9-5 grind" }, { "id": "t1_okarhfu", "author": "/u/strugglingcomic", "updated": "2026-05-06T18:20:23+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/okarhfu/", "content": "The classic advice of "make sure you have something to retire TO, not just retire FROM" applies very clearly to you OP.\n That doesn't just mean having hobbies or shit to do (though it helps). It also means planning intentionally for, what you want your social circle and interactions to be like, post early retirement.\n It is entirely predictable and well documented (see hundreds of similar posts on reddit), that people encounter this disconnect of working vs non-working people. You probably planned very rigorously and thought a lot about how your money management will work pre and post retirement... But did you put anywhere near the same level of effort into planning for your actual "life", aka as a human being that is inherently a social animal and needs human interaction?\n That's okay if you didn't. I'm not trying to kick you while you're down. Just pointing out, you only "solved for" half of the problem (the money part, which is also probably the "easiest" part)... so now you should spend some effort planning out the "life" part.\n You might need to develop new friends. You might need to find different Discord groups to join. It's okay! It's never too late! But just having enough money to live on, by itself doesnt guarantee you will actually have a "life", so go and make one for yourself!" }, { "id": "t1_okarvql", "author": "/u/MingeyMcCluster", "updated": "2026-05-06T18:22:08+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/okarvql/", "content": "I wish I had that problem. I would love it" }, { "id": "t1_okasg95", "author": "/u/TheCharalampos", "updated": "2026-05-06T18:24:38+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/okasg95/", "content": "Start playing D&D" }, { "id": "t1_okasqkv", "author": "/u/UnderTheAuthorityOf", "updated": "2026-05-06T18:25:55+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/okasqkv/", "content": "I will assume you are single lol 😝" }, { "id": "t1_okasyjp", "author": "/u/Nagunagunagu", "updated": "2026-05-06T18:26:55+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/okasyjp/", "content": "Learn an instrument and found a band" }, { "id": "t1_okaszdb", "author": "/u/quackl11", "updated": "2026-05-06T18:27:01+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/okaszdb/", "content": "Find people who own a business. I started playing pool and on Friday from 2:00-5:00 it's a happy hour deal but most people are at work and can't take advantage so it's retires and the people who own their own business. One of them is a drywaller one does house renovations. They've worked pool into their work schedule" }, { "id": "t1_okat7yf", "author": "/u/twixvssnickers", "updated": "2026-05-06T18:28:06+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/okat7yf/", "content": "Wait til the summer and find some teachers to hang out with. I’m always trying to convince my buddies to skip work and hang out over the summer. I usually end up hanging out with those retirees or soccer moms over the summer." }, { "id": "t1_okath6u", "author": "/u/InspectionAgitated20", "updated": "2026-05-06T18:29:14+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/okath6u/", "content": "I’m a recent college grad and I think it’d be cool to have someone like you in my friend group. Have you tried just hanging out on college campuses and playing video games in the library or student union? All of my friends would comment about the game you’re playing and spark up a conversation." }, { "id": "t1_okatiua", "author": "/u/DanglingKeyChain", "updated": "2026-05-06T18:29:27+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/okatiua/", "content": "You know listening is part of the conversation, you can listen to your friends complaining about work and be the shoulder to cry on, when and if they're ready they might ask about how you managed it.\n Maybe it's time to learn about community and maintaining friendships that aren't born from trauma bonding." }, { "id": "t1_okatydf", "author": "/u/ClandestineEfforts", "updated": "2026-05-06T18:31:22+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/okatydf/", "content": "I think this sounds like your “second season”.\n Maybe find a super cool hobby and blitz on that. There are so many people doing stuff like that and monetizing it (not that you have to), but it leads to the not-so-typical schedules and availability that you have now. It might open more social doors for you too.\n FWIW, startup people and entrepreneurs are often around during the day doing different stuff?" }, { "id": "t1_okau7w6", "author": "/u/ObviousCarrot2075", "updated": "2026-05-06T18:32:33+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/okau7w6/", "content": "Self employed, work part time and barista fired here. Almost 40.\n Find friends who are self-employed. Find friends who work in healthcare. Find people your age who work alternative schedules.\n I don’t have issues listening to my friends bitch about work cuz I care about them. I can still be a pillar of support, even if I don’t have their same issues. That’s part of being a good human.\n Invest your spare time in something meaningful. I have a child so that takes up a lot of my bandwidth, but I also started volunteering with local search and rescue, so I have something to ‘show up’ for." }, { "id": "t1_okaulwk", "author": "/u/TheRimeOfMom", "updated": "2026-05-06T18:34:17+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/okaulwk/", "content": "Find volunteer opportunities. For instance, your local public schools are always in need of help, and there are many types of responsibilities. Some of them, you engage with students and others you don’t." }, { "id": "t1_okautro", "author": "/u/Adagio-Annual", "updated": "2026-05-06T18:35:15+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/okautro/", "content": "What state ya in ?" }, { "id": "t1_okav4io", "author": "/u/david8840", "updated": "2026-05-06T18:36:34+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/okav4io/", "content": "I’m glad I don’t have any friends, this could be a real problem!" }, { "id": "t1_okavxjq", "author": "/u/johnfkngzoidberg", "updated": "2026-05-06T18:40:09+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/okavxjq/", "content": "If you’re bored you can volunteer your time. I’m on the board of a charity and it’s really nice to work with people who actually enjoy what they do. Corporate folks hate each other because they have to be there. I’m here because I want to be." }, { "id": "t1_okavy35", "author": "/u/readsalotman", "updated": "2026-05-06T18:40:12+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/okavy35/", "content": "I retired from full time work at 34 but have experienced the complete opposite of you. I have a great group of golf friends, one of which is also FI so we grab tee times during the week. I'm in the best shape of my life, reading nonstop which has always been a primary hobby, raising an awesome child, doing home projects, traveling to new countries annually, and still involved in my industry but at around 20 hrs a week for the past 6 years. I've felt complete freedom for years now. There's no way in hell I could work full-time again, I'm too busy living!\n Do you not have any personal goals? Family? Passions?" }, { "id": "t1_okaw0fi", "author": "/u/Warm-Bite-3791", "updated": "2026-05-06T18:40:30+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/okaw0fi/", "content": "o que você gosta de jogar? Joga CS2?" }, { "id": "t1_okaw97o", "author": "/u/Creative_Pen7789", "updated": "2026-05-06T18:41:35+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/okaw97o/", "content": "Dude. Get a hobby or get a job you actually like and quit complaining on Reddit to a bunch of people who would LOVE to have your problems." }, { "id": "t1_okawtj7", "author": "/u/Fit_Cry_7007", "updated": "2026-05-06T18:44:06+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/okawtj7/", "content": "Aww..hope you find something fulfilling to do soon!" }, { "id": "t1_okawyyd", "author": "/u/TechWorld510", "updated": "2026-05-06T18:44:46+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/okawyyd/", "content": "Time for monk mode of early retirement. Honestly, ain’t no such thing as retirement. Gym, hobbies, passionate projects, research, etc. Plenty to do. Just got to catch this vibe and get aligned with the frequency. My goal is to watch the people rush every morning while I sit there with a nice coffee and smile. Getting away from corporate America is amazing, worst…pick up a part time job in something you love. That way you feel “involved”." }, { "id": "t1_okax49k", "author": "/u/slumlord512", "updated": "2026-05-06T18:45:26+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/okax49k/", "content": "You were supposed to partner up first, that way you and your spouse can retire early together and find fun activities to do together.\n Or buy a rental property or 10 of them and you will never have a weekday free again." }, { "id": "t1_okax8fo", "author": "/u/commoncents1", "updated": "2026-05-06T18:45:57+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/okax8fo/", "content": "many posts similar of people deciding either all in FT grind or nothing when there can be a happy medium working PT on your terms or contract/consulting work. otherwise yeah, if your peers are still working, it takes time to find a new compatible group. i took off 10 yrs in early 30s after selling my company but kept busy doing some other investing and entrepreneurial stuff. i'd be too bored with hobbies." }, { "id": "t1_okax9z6", "author": "/u/Abject_Natural", "updated": "2026-05-06T18:46:08+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/okax9z6/", "content": "Travel" }, { "id": "t1_okaxfe9", "author": "/u/TechWorld510", "updated": "2026-05-06T18:46:48+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/okaxfe9/", "content": "Play battlefield 6. You’ll love it!" }, { "id": "t1_okaxvcq", "author": "/u/Eazy_Masta", "updated": "2026-05-06T18:48:48+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/okaxvcq/", "content": "Solitude is a gift, silence is poetry." }, { "id": "t1_okay0xf", "author": "/u/FIREinnahole", "updated": "2026-05-06T18:49:29+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/okay0xf/", "content": "I'm hopeful that a wife and young kids at home and a time-consuming hobby like golf that I don't mind doing alone will prevent this from being an issue for me." }, { "id": "t1_okazqtf", "author": "/u/Euphoric_Barracuda_7", "updated": "2026-05-06T18:57:06+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/okazqtf/", "content": "You have the same issues as me, what I did last year was spend most of it traveling and exploring. But in most of the travel groups I was in I was mostly the youngest out of an older crowd. It's definitely strange, realising most of your life experience involves greatly around work. Most of my friends and even family are still on the daily grind." }, { "id": "t1_okb0dow", "author": "/u/VirileMongoose", "updated": "2026-05-06T18:59:53+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/okb0dow/", "content": "Lucky for you this is easily fixable.\n You’re missing the structure and community. We evolved as social creatures.\n There’s an organization called SCORE that mentors young entrepreneurs.\n Mornings. Exercise group.\n Lunch time. Meet one of your friends for lunch. You can be a bright spot in their day.\n PM Volunteer or actually get a job at something you care about a few times a week. The difference is you control the intensity and level of participation.\n You don’t want to spend your days “golfing with the nepo babies” that’s unhealthy in different ways." }, { "id": "t1_okb10u7", "author": "/u/rjm101", "updated": "2026-05-06T19:02:45+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/okb10u7/", "content": "It might not feel like it but these are good problems to have. Now you potential friends are:\n\n- People on welfare that deliberately don't work\n- People that have careers that make them work weekends and have weekdays free\n- People with generational money\n- Other FIRE folk\n- Older later age retirees Of course raising your own family would help fill up that time rather rapid." }, { "id": "t1_okb10xx", "author": "/u/PokeYrMomStanley", "updated": "2026-05-06T19:02:46+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/okb10xx/", "content": "Create some actual structure in your life. Do the stuff you gotta do during the day on schedule and your life with improve." }, { "id": "t1_okb14jo", "author": "/u/jettpupp", "updated": "2026-05-06T19:03:13+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/okb14jo/", "content": "How much did you retire with? Why not just do hobbies or passion projects or little startups?" }, { "id": "t1_okb25e9", "author": "/u/DarkLordKohan", "updated": "2026-05-06T19:07:43+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/okb25e9/", "content": "- Get a hobby that keeps you on a schedule. Then you can look forward to it.\n\n- Start a new business for fun and use it keep yourself busy. Even if its 3-4 hours a day.\n\n- Get a girlfriend(s) who also doesnt work and you can go whenever and wherever and have a companion." }, { "id": "t1_okb2hzb", "author": "/u/paulio10", "updated": "2026-05-06T19:09:16+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/okb2hzb/", "content": "One thing you can do is go hiking mid-day mid week - you'll bump into fellow retired people of every age who aren't super old yet because they're out hiking. You can meet highly successful business owners this way too." }, { "id": "t1_okb2ley", "author": "/u/Sea_Action5814", "updated": "2026-05-06T19:09:42+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/okb2ley/", "content": "Could always take some deep breaths and work towards enlightenment." }, { "id": "t1_okb2x1u", "author": "/u/-Accession-", "updated": "2026-05-06T19:11:07+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/okb2x1u/", "content": "You have realized the alienation you worked your whole life towards" }, { "id": "t1_okb4qxs", "author": "/u/relditor", "updated": "2026-05-06T19:19:20+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/okb4qxs/", "content": "Dude, two words, passion projects. I’d kill to have my 30s back and not have to work. I’d be doing all the passion projects I dreamt about doing." }, { "id": "t1_okb53ue", "author": "/u/Freewheeler631", "updated": "2026-05-06T19:20:57+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/okb53ue/", "content": "Go do some world travel. It can be cheaper than you think depending on where you go because COLA kicks in. I spent a lot of time in SE Asia and ran into people on parallel adventures. We'd spend a little time traveling together until our paths parted. You can make life long travel friends and it multiplies the places you can go in the world where you know someone and can maybe even stay with them or set up future travels. I've even run into the same people twice on different trips. Worth a thought unless you have pets or something." }, { "id": "t1_okb54yr", "author": "/u/Rooby_Booby", "updated": "2026-05-06T19:21:05+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/okb54yr/", "content": "I mean isnt it easier to show up for people and hear them vent when you have the bandwidth? I know maybe you don’t care to connect about that stuff anymore but everything in life has a give and take. Could be the beauty in your early retirement that you can show up better for your community" }, { "id": "t1_okb5r4p", "author": "/u/madoneforever", "updated": "2026-05-06T19:23:53+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/okb5r4p/", "content": "What about volunteering, working towards a dream job, or a degree that you do for satisfaction not the paycheck?" }, { "id": "t1_okb6bnu", "author": "/u/FoamboardDinosaur", "updated": "2026-05-06T19:26:25+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/okb6bnu/", "content": "I'm finding the 'now that I don't have to work, I'm so bored/lonely' is mostly men, whose entire social life revolved solely around work. The first thing you need to do is learn to be an engaging social community-oriented human\n Retirement isn't isolating. Thinking you were 'social' when you had forced 9-5 'community' time with other wage slaves is what is isolating.\n Join meet up groups, check out volunteer sites, check out your community center, join a million leagues of softball, pickleball, cornhole, bocce. START YOUR OWN GROUP of retirees who hike/coffee/whatever the fuck.\n There are millions of veterans, bartenders, cooks, retail, hospitality people who don't have 9-5 jobs. Join the coast guard auxillary, tutor, join a garden/bonsai/mushroom club. Walk the beach/park and pick up garbage for an hour and see how many people you'll engage with. Join a jogging club. Get a dog, go to some random church. Jeezus I could write a book of stuff to do\n Once you meet those people, and they find you interesting and not some bland ass whiner, you will be introduced to their parties, campouts, and general hangouts" }, { "id": "t1_okb8ftb", "author": "/u/hoboken411", "updated": "2026-05-06T19:35:39+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/okb8ftb/", "content": "Start a new Business" }, { "id": "t1_okb8iqn", "author": "/u/G3raD", "updated": "2026-05-06T19:35:59+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/okb8iqn/", "content": "I am guessing you are American... I too have had a hard time decoupling myself/personality with "work" eventho I still work. The American society tethered self-worth to how busy one is, is the most fucked up thing, and it takes a while to deconstruct.\n Some ideas: - travel. To places where you will get to meet all kinds of other people and cultures that are not attached to the 9-5. - volunteer. Doesnt necessarily need to be soup kitchen or homeless center, although those are great too. But volunteer your time where your dev skills can be put to good use for great causes. - build something. Get yourself a long term project to which you can dedicate your energy and mental acuity which will bring you satisfaction when its all done. Ex: build a tree house, a computer, retrofit a bus to a mini house to travel cross country, dig a pool in your backyard by hand, buy a chassis at the metal scraps and build the car back up from the ground up. Whatever you choose, it has to be a long term project - go back to school. Not for the degre, but for the fun of learning. There are plenty of other countries where studying is free or extra low cost event for international students.\n Whatever it is you choose to do, it sounds to me like you have to deconstruct what it means for you to be "retired". To me it doesnt mean stop working, it means move on to a different phase of life.\n Good luck!" }, { "id": "t1_okb9g2o", "author": "/u/Life_Commercial_6580", "updated": "2026-05-06T19:40:02+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/okb9g2o/", "content": "I think that’s the biggest issue with retiring “too young”. Once you’re over 50, you don’t mind the grandkids and hip replacement stories :))\n Why not take some easy part time job or volunteer position? It sounds like you’re single no kids, otherwise you’d be busy with the family so finding a new social outlet through part time employment or volunteering may be the way." }, { "id": "t1_okb9vg0", "author": "/u/LopsidedGiraffe", "updated": "2026-05-06T19:41:56+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/okb9vg0/", "content": "I cannot relate at all. There is do much to do! Go on a bike packing holiday. Thats what I would do if I was fit enough. We retired early (low 50s), but not nearly as young as you. Ive got a chronic disease now (late 50s) which means i cant do my favourite hobby anymore :-(.\n Travel! Its just as cheap to live in SE Asis as it is to live in Australia. We spent 3 months there last year. Had a ball.\n Meet friends before their work for exercise and then a coffee. Thats what we did before retiring and its what we do now (though I cant run of ridecwith them anymore)." }, { "id": "t1_okbaubt", "author": "/u/raccoonchrist", "updated": "2026-05-06T19:46:08+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/okbaubt/", "content": "Can you not just get a girlfriend" }, { "id": "t1_okbbq3u", "author": "/u/Disastrous-Rent7438", "updated": "2026-05-06T19:49:57+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/okbbq3u/", "content": "Time to start a family bro. Make your own little friends." }, { "id": "t1_okbcdrx", "author": "/u/todayistheday666", "updated": "2026-05-06T19:52:49+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/okbcdrx/", "content": "time to look for a FIRE spouse!" }, { "id": "t1_okbcff7", "author": "/u/Frequent_Slip2455", "updated": "2026-05-06T19:53:01+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/okbcff7/", "content": "I've read this story over and over on other forums. Good luck" }, { "id": "t1_okbden9", "author": "/u/dukeofsaas", "updated": "2026-05-06T19:57:11+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/okbden9/", "content": "I've found a few hobbies. A mountain biking pal can start late so we ride weekday mornings. If kids are in the plan PTAs have lots of volunteers with midday availability. My daytimes are filled with my hobbies now. It took a few years to build a roster of hobbies to keep me busy. My wife scaled back significantly, now we hang out too." }, { "id": "t1_okbdik1", "author": "/u/ThotPoppa", "updated": "2026-05-06T19:57:39+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/okbdik1/", "content": "perfect example of how money doesn't buy happiness." }, { "id": "t1_okbe58t", "author": "/u/Master-Swauss", "updated": "2026-05-06T20:00:20+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/okbe58t/", "content": "You have bought for yourself the freedom to chase fulfillment however it prevents itself in any given moment. Want to get a chill job working on something that you enjoy with people you respect? Go ahead. Want to write poetry on a beach in Tijuana? Sure. Start a business making penis-shaped wine glasses to sell at bachelorette parties? That's vibes.\n The loneliness you feel is just your body adjusting to the new reality that you and only you make the rules now. Go enjoy this incredible life you've built" }, { "id": "t1_okbf7jj", "author": "/u/ScarLupi", "updated": "2026-05-06T20:04:57+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/okbf7jj/", "content": "That’s why having a family is so meaningful, even just a spouse to share life with." }, { "id": "t1_okbfcnj", "author": "/u/Daforde", "updated": "2026-05-06T20:05:34+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/okbfcnj/", "content": "That's a problem I wish I had." }, { "id": "t1_okbfjj6", "author": "/u/Carolina_Hurricane", "updated": "2026-05-06T20:06:24+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/okbfjj6/", "content": "This makes total sense. It’s the same way when working a 9/80 schedule with every other Friday off - it’s great having Friday off but the problem is everybody else works.\n This is why I’m going to slow travel the world. And rather than work 5 more years to hit my fat fire number I’m going to slow travel like a monk for 5 years first.\n It’s lonely at the top." }, { "id": "t1_okbg78v", "author": "/u/Ethos_Logos", "updated": "2026-05-06T20:09:17+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/okbg78v/", "content": "When I was 27, I took a year off due to burnout. Took about ten months to get bored of my favorite things.\n I’m a cpl years older than you, but now have kids (and retired a year and a half ago). I have not had time to get bored.\n Just posting to sympathize and say, I get it." }, { "id": "t1_okbgnsw", "author": "/u/_cigno_nero", "updated": "2026-05-06T20:11:19+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/okbgnsw/", "content": "why not go on one of those solo travel group trips? Like g adventures! The company groups up a bunch of strangers in their 20-30's" }, { "id": "t1_okbh1mx", "author": "/u/EvidentlyChickent0wn", "updated": "2026-05-06T20:13:01+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/okbh1mx/", "content": "I think you hinted at it when you mentioned that your identity was tied to being busy. I suspect your identity was somewhat tied to your work/ role/ organisation.\n I FIRED 6 years ago at 40 and experienced similar feelings. I found that these thoughts are mainly ego driven and by learning to separate ego from my decision making, and subsequently my self, then I was more free to focus on the things that really interested me, fulfilled me and make me happy." }, { "id": "t1_okbh3aa", "author": "/u/arrcnd", "updated": "2026-05-06T20:13:14+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/okbh3aa/", "content": "Start a business. Fire at 36 is awesome, but not trying to grow and learn new things at that age is dumb. Entrepreneurship is the best way to do that. You’ll make friends with fellow business owners who neither have managers, nor are 9 to 5." }, { "id": "t1_okbhcka", "author": "/u/Phewelish", "updated": "2026-05-06T20:14:22+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/okbhcka/", "content": "make your own discord. find something you love like games or types of games or movies and start inviting people. go to that things subreddit and invite people. 😃" }, { "id": "t1_okbhf4u", "author": "/u/elvizzle", "updated": "2026-05-06T20:14:41+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/okbhf4u/", "content": "I went back to work at 42 after being FIRE’d for 10 years. I missed working on interesting problems with smart people." }, { "id": "t1_okbirvv", "author": "/u/Intelligent_Bag_9383", "updated": "2026-05-06T20:20:41+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/okbirvv/", "content": "This is why I would never RE. Only coastfire, take a huge pay cut but do something that is meaningful." }, { "id": "t1_okbkri4", "author": "/u/throwawayle", "updated": "2026-05-06T20:29:34+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/okbkri4/", "content": "I have all this time to finally work on my own projects or hike, but doing everything solo gets old fast.\n Can you livestream or post about your projects to try to garner interest? If you find your own project interesting, there might be other people out there that also might also find it interesting and want to follow along and engage with it.\n When I talked with a friend about how I was thinking of quitting and starting my own software company, he recommended I join a co-working space just to be in an environment where people are working, having somewhere you go to work on something can make it easier to do and feel less lonely. That might be worth engaging with." }, { "id": "t1_okbl7u0", "author": "/u/laosurv3y", "updated": "2026-05-06T20:31:38+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/okbl7u0/", "content": "Non-working people have helped worked people decompress for centuries - see stay at home spouses, retirees, even children sometimes. Your struggle to connect is not because you're retired, it's likely because you haven't invested in people in general. You can do that - it's a choice. Look up social groups and activities that you have at least some mild interest in and participate, even on days you're feeling lazy. Sympathize with others regardless of whether you've had that direct experience.\n Be a friend. It's a choice. You can socialize fine with other people that work. However, if you can't feel okay with yourself during normal work hours it does make sense to at least find others who may work irregular hours or also don't need to work.\n Also - if 56 year olds are only talking about grand kids and hip replacements, you've found strange groups." }, { "id": "t1_okbloyi", "author": "/u/PhatedFool", "updated": "2026-05-06T20:33:49+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/okbloyi/", "content": "Start hanging out with your friend’s wives easy peasy. They’ll start spending less time at work." }, { "id": "t1_okbm7e0", "author": "/u/SomethingWittyLater", "updated": "2026-05-06T20:36:11+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/okbm7e0/", "content": "I'm 42 and I've been FIRE for nearly a year and a half now, and those feelings of isolation still persist for me, too. Even when I'm socializing with people who are my "peers", the difference in our headspaces is incredibly difficult to bridge, and I think that's the issue you're going to keep encountering. It's not just that you're looking for someone with the availability to go on a random roadtrip on a Wednesday morning, but while they're on that trip, you want them to be _on that trip_ and not thinking about what they're going to come back to on Thursday.\n My peers all more or less have employer-mandated toxic relationships with work, and finding people with the means to escape those relationships, the honesty and self-awareness that their work relationship is unhealthy, the desire to heal their broken brains, and the willpower to see it through is a challenge." }, { "id": "t1_okbmolu", "author": "/u/CompetitionNo2719", "updated": "2026-05-06T20:38:22+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/okbmolu/", "content": "Find yourself an amazing partner that has similar values and hobbies and spend time with them. Discover your purpose and personal calling." }, { "id": "t1_okbnqya", "author": "/u/TurbulentTeacher5328", "updated": "2026-05-06T20:43:12+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/okbnqya/", "content": "If you have any empty soul...no amount of money or retirement will cure it" }, { "id": "t1_okborhm", "author": "/u/Nomromz", "updated": "2026-05-06T20:47:49+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/okborhm/", "content": "You'll find people.\n I'm just a little bit older than you and I found myself in the same situation, but eventually you start to meet others your age (or at least close enough to your age) to hang out with.\n I have a handful of people I can meet up with for lunch during the week now. There's also plenty of time to hit the gym during the week and that has been an absolute life changer. I've started to go grocery shopping every other day and cooking lunch.\n The people around my age who can spend time dilly dallying are mostly small business owners who can take extended lunch breaks whenever they feel like. I've gotten to know quite a few of the business owners in my neighborhood. Other easy to meet ones are contractors and real estate agents and anyone in sales.\n I only really need to fill 9am to 3pm or so, which is pretty easy to do with gym, some errands, and cooking lunch. After that I pick up my kids from school and do all the parenting stuff until 9pm.\n Rinse and repeat. It's quite nice actually." }, { "id": "t1_okbqol9", "author": "/u/shanewzR", "updated": "2026-05-06T20:56:28+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/okbqol9/", "content": "Grass is never greener on the other side, its just human desire that creates the illusion.\n Having said that, you need to change your mindset. you can do soo much with your free time, volunteer, do charity work, do something meaningful. That will bring you more contentment than just sitting around looking at people" }, { "id": "t1_okbr0xv", "author": "/u/Defiant-Passenger42", "updated": "2026-05-06T20:57:59+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/okbr0xv/", "content": "As someone who lurks here but will never be able to FIRE, I can’t possibly comprehend how you feel. For one thing, I have a friend who has been living off of his parents’ income his whole life and has never had a job. That hasn’t stopped him from keeping busy and staying an active part of our friend group. He regularly organizes and hosts hangouts with multiple groups of friends, studies whatever interests him, and when I see him, he just shares everything he’s been learning about. It never feels weird or like we can’t relate to each other at all. And it’s not an age thing, we’re both 37.\n There is so much world to explore, so much life to live, I can’t fathom not knowing what to do with myself. Here are some of the things that I would love to dedicate vast amounts of time to, but I can’t because I have a job:\n Studying music theory and becoming a multi-instrumentalist, working on becoming a polyglot, native plant gardening, reading books, crushing my fitness goals, woodworking, solving problems that greatly concern me, and more!\n Something tells me you spent so much time working toward this goal that you forgot to figure out what you really enjoy engaging in and who you want to be" }, { "id": "t1_okbr4ko", "author": "/u/OutlandishnessSea177", "updated": "2026-05-06T20:58:27+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/okbr4ko/", "content": "I’m exactly your age. If I were in your shoes I’d lean into this feeling. Volunteer and ask yourself what you really want to do with your time." }, { "id": "t1_okbrvki", "author": "/u/AnotherWahoo", "updated": "2026-05-06T21:01:48+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/okbrvki/", "content": "Seems like you went into this with incorrect expectations, and find yourself disappointed as a result.\n Generally, purpose comes from having plans to do things with people. If you lose purpose, you will get bored, lonely, and depressed. Your entire working life, you found purpose in two networks. One network is your friend group, who you see evenings/weekends. The other network was your co-workers, who you saw during business hours. You got purpose from both of these networks, but if you were a high achiever, worked long hours, etc., you spent a hell of a lot more time with your co-workers than your friends.\n Now the co-worker network is gone. You need to replace it. This is the first time in your adult life you have to put any effort into building a business hours network. You're not putting in the effort. For some reason you were surprised to discover that your friends aren't available during business hours. This should have been obvious. But even now, you are looking for a friend to take road trips at random times with you.\n What you actually need are planned activities with other people during business hours. If only old dudes are available to you during business hours, lean into them. The age gap will mean they aren't great friend material. But you don't need to replace or expand your friend group. And you have plenty in common with old dudes. Yes they talk about grandkids and ailments. But you can find hobby groups where the old dudes are basically you in 20 years.\n If you build a business hours network, that will solve the issues with your friend group. The tether between you and your friend group is not the "shared trauma" of employment. That's silliness. And your problem is not that you can't contribute to work-related conversations. It's that you do nothing all day, so you can't contribute to any conversations at all. I also assume (given your OP) that you are showing signs of depression. Nobody wants to hang out with a depressed person." }, { "id": "t1_okbs5by", "author": "/u/ArtDimmesdale42", "updated": "2026-05-06T21:03:01+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/okbs5by/", "content": "You should find a wife. Impregnate her. Raise the children. You forgot about the most meaningful part of life which is neither on the internet nor r/fire ." }, { "id": "t1_okbslzp", "author": "/u/drainerlmfao", "updated": "2026-05-06T21:05:05+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/okbslzp/", "content": "this really resonates with me" }, { "id": "t1_okbt3ip", "author": "/u/antran20", "updated": "2026-05-06T21:07:17+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/okbt3ip/", "content": "my husband and i retired a few months ago at 35 & 38 having a partner that does thing with you is helpful but we also get to see friends who have a job but still can hang out on midday workdays\n you should check out FIRE meetups, higher chance to meet people in similar situation to yours, already retired or closed to or having more flexibility\n pickleball has been really fun for us to connect with friends and make new friends, you'd be surprised how many people that come out during lunch time to play" }, { "id": "t1_okbummb", "author": "/u/sirauron14", "updated": "2026-05-06T21:14:19+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/okbummb/", "content": "You can give me some money we can hang out" }, { "id": "t1_okbvh5r", "author": "/u/jaywaltm", "updated": "2026-05-06T21:18:19+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/okbvh5r/", "content": "Experiencing the same - I’m a musician and was thinking I’d get to rehearse more with the band, but they are busy with work and squeezing in other obligations on the random weekend so we aren’t practicing more (makes sense, but I wasn’t thinking) - I was silly thinking I’d get to see friends more but they are just as busy." }, { "id": "t1_okbwipo", "author": "/u/plnx8", "updated": "2026-05-06T21:23:16+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/okbwipo/", "content": "Start making the gym your work, and rest on the weekends" }, { "id": "t1_okbz6o0", "author": "/u/breinbanaan", "updated": "2026-05-06T21:36:02+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/okbz6o0/", "content": "Go on climbing trips? Hiking trips?" }, { "id": "t1_okc05if", "author": "/u/TheRealHeroOf", "updated": "2026-05-06T21:40:42+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/okc05if/", "content": "Fuck this sounds so amazing." }, { "id": "t1_okc0hsj", "author": "/u/bigfootcandles", "updated": "2026-05-06T21:42:23+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/okc0hsj/", "content": "My therapist asked me the other day: What's your calling? What's your purpose? It really made me think." }, { "id": "t1_okc0v4z", "author": "/u/Trash2Burn", "updated": "2026-05-06T21:44:12+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/okc0v4z/", "content": "Go volunteer somewhere." }, { "id": "t1_okc16q5", "author": "/u/FunAnywhere9205", "updated": "2026-05-06T21:45:47+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/okc16q5/", "content": "At this point I think having hobbies or not will make or break your life... I'm talking big hobbies, 6 months of hiking, think PCT... Man I'm most admirable of people who are chasing their interests, whatever it is, you have the good fortune to create an absolute epic life... Go do something man" }, { "id": "t1_okc2j1i", "author": "/u/wakawakamoose", "updated": "2026-05-06T21:52:24+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/okc2j1i/", "content": "What about volunteering? Your local food bank, your local pet rescue or other volunteer groups regularly are looking for people during the day. They still won’t be your age but you might get some of the shared conversation topics with your weekend friends back.\n And you literally can’t lose by doing something nice with your time and giving to others." }, { "id": "t1_okc3pwe", "author": "/u/theorizable", "updated": "2026-05-06T21:58:19+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/okc3pwe/", "content": "Go build something. Build an app, or go enroll in college or something." }, { "id": "t1_okc3yhz", "author": "/u/Civil_Independent_72", "updated": "2026-05-06T21:59:31+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/okc3yhz/", "content": "Man I'd be so content" }, { "id": "t1_okc535k", "author": "/u/Awellplanned", "updated": "2026-05-06T22:05:19+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/okc535k/", "content": "Bro if you are single move to Thailand you will meet plenty of expats and have fun all over south east Asia." }, { "id": "t1_okc5ftp", "author": "/u/paladyr", "updated": "2026-05-06T22:07:08+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/okc5ftp/", "content": "This might keep me working. What's the point of retiring if everyone else is unavailable during working hours lol. Right now I just take a lot of time off work when I want to go do something." }, { "id": "t1_okc7279", "author": "/u/__plankton__", "updated": "2026-05-06T22:15:38+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/okc7279/", "content": "local redditor builds lonely life for themselves. is surprised when an open schedule reveals loneliness. in other news." }, { "id": "t1_okc789b", "author": "/u/winpickles4life", "updated": "2026-05-06T22:16:31+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/okc789b/", "content": "36 year old in Ohio in the same situation. Building a treehouse seems to keep my mind occupied, but I don’t have a plan after that is over." }, { "id": "t1_okc7dhp", "author": "/u/Green_Aide6258", "updated": "2026-05-06T22:17:17+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/okc7dhp/", "content": "Yeah it’s a weird life. Especially for a guy in my opinion. My wife has plenty of friends free during the day but I don’t have any dudes around during the day 😂.\n I’ve become used to it. Hang out with old people and moms at yoga" }, { "id": "t1_okc8bwv", "author": "/u/gilly2u69", "updated": "2026-05-06T22:22:21+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/okc8bwv/", "content": "We fired and found the animal shelter a great place to give time and interact with others. Count your blessings." }, { "id": "t1_okc94d2", "author": "/u/No-Loss-676", "updated": "2026-05-06T22:26:33+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t5hydl/the_isolation_of_early_retirement_at_36_is_a/okc94d2/", "content": "I am 36 and this is me too. I ended up doing very minimal contract work just to reengage with a group of people. Light projects and I don’t work more than 20 or 25 hours in a month. Not for the money but the interaction." } ] }, { "source": "r/Fire top month", "id": "t3_1t77kx5", "title": "Just FIRE’ed, $7.5m portfolio, moved to Thailand", "author": "/u/N4003604", "updated": "2026-05-08T13:12:57+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/", "content": "56M. Recently quit my job in the US, and relocated to Thailand. Got $7.5m in equities (85% equities / 15% income). Equity sleeve is solely VTI, QQQ, SPY and VXUS; income sleeve is solely BINC, JEPI, SGOV & VCIT.\n I run monthly cashed secured puts (executed as wide strike price Bull Put Spreads) only on QQQ and SPY with a total exposure of about $700k for additional option premium using the income sleeve as collateral in event of assignment. I have no direct, individual company exposure so I don’t have to worry about earnings reports, a bad sales report or whatever.\n I’ve also monetized the portfolio, avoiding selling highly appreciated stock, with $1m in SPX Box loans. Loans maturities are laddered between 12/2026 and 12/2028, the average rate is 3.9%. When they mature I’ll just roll over. This funds the income sleeve which will throw off at least 5% per annum in dividends and avoids any real near term sequence of return risk.\n With all of that I expect to be able to live on about $225k to $250k per year (+/-) and not have my net worth deteriorate. I’ll get about $1,400 a month in social security when I turn 62.\n I’ll reevaluate spending, to see if I can spend more and related drawdowns based on prevailing market and other conditions.\n UPDATE (5.16.2026): Many questions about Budgets and Withdrawal Rates, so I can add this color. Treat every number as directional and not absolute!\n Housing / Housing related: $60,000 per year; Car $15,000 per year; Health Insurance $5,000 per year; Food $25,000 per year; Misc $20,000 + travel $30,000 +[TBD} other\n Total Minimum Baseline Expenses: $140,000 to $175,000 per year\n Total Income: Total ~$144,000 (Dividends $120,000 per year; Option Premiums $24,000)\n Surplus / (Deficit): (~$31,000) per year. This gets funded through equity drawdown or perhaps increased SPX Box loans depending on interest rates and portfolio size.\n Safe Withdrawal Rate: ~0.40% (Deficit / marketable assets)\n Safe Withdrawal Rate (Traditional): ~2.30%. (expenses / marketable assets)\n Appreciate any comments….\n submitted by /u/N4003604\n [link] [comments]", "contentHtml": "

56M. Recently quit my job in the US, and relocated to Thailand. Got $7.5m in equities (85% equities / 15% income). Equity sleeve is solely VTI, QQQ, SPY and VXUS; income sleeve is solely BINC, JEPI, SGOV & VCIT.

I run monthly cashed secured puts (executed as wide strike price Bull Put Spreads) only on QQQ and SPY with a total exposure of about $700k for additional option premium using the income sleeve as collateral in event of assignment. I have no direct, individual company exposure so I don’t have to worry about earnings reports, a bad sales report or whatever.

I’ve also monetized the portfolio, avoiding selling highly appreciated stock, with $1m in SPX Box loans. Loans maturities are laddered between 12/2026 and 12/2028, the average rate is 3.9%. When they mature I’ll just roll over. This funds the income sleeve which will throw off at least 5% per annum in dividends and avoids any real near term sequence of return risk.

With all of that I expect to be able to live on about $225k to $250k per year (+/-) and not have my net worth deteriorate. I’ll get about $1,400 a month in social security when I turn 62.

I’ll reevaluate spending, to see if I can spend more and related drawdowns based on prevailing market and other conditions.

UPDATE (5.16.2026): Many questions about Budgets and Withdrawal Rates, so I can add this color. Treat every number as directional and not absolute!

Housing / Housing related: $60,000 per year; Car $15,000 per year; Health Insurance $5,000 per year; Food $25,000 per year; Misc $20,000 + travel $30,000 +[TBD} other

Total Minimum Baseline Expenses: $140,000 to $175,000 per year

Total Income: Total ~$144,000 (Dividends $120,000 per year; Option Premiums $24,000)

Surplus / (Deficit): (~$31,000) per year. This gets funded through equity drawdown or perhaps increased SPX Box loans depending on interest rates and portfolio size.

Safe Withdrawal Rate: ~0.40% (Deficit / marketable assets)

Safe Withdrawal Rate (Traditional): ~2.30%. (expenses / marketable assets)

Appreciate any comments….

submitted by /u/N4003604
[link] [comments]", "comments": [ { "id": "t1_okmv0wj", "author": "/u/daiglenumberone", "updated": "2026-05-08T13:20:47+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/okmv0wj/", "content": "I think you need to consider a lower cost of living jurisdiction with your limited runway. Have you considered Uzbekistan?" }, { "id": "t1_okmw3q9", "author": "/u/LeadingAd6025", "updated": "2026-05-08T13:26:08+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/okmw3q9/", "content": "Or Pakistan?" }, { "id": "t1_oknrae4", "author": "/u/De_mentorr", "updated": "2026-05-08T15:47:55+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/oknrae4/", "content": "Yep. That's the plan Stan." }, { "id": "t1_okoa2cs", "author": "/u/hprather1", "updated": "2026-05-08T17:11:17+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/okoa2cs/", "content": "Planistan?" }, { "id": "t1_okof89p", "author": "/u/MonkFire", "updated": "2026-05-08T17:34:11+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/okof89p/", "content": "or Afghanistan" }, { "id": "t1_okossgy", "author": "/u/Top_Tank2668", "updated": "2026-05-08T18:35:46+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/okossgy/", "content": "Georgia, cheap and his US friends can write the name." }, { "id": "t1_oknuxm8", "author": "/u/wh0re4nickelback", "updated": "2026-05-08T16:03:52+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/oknuxm8/", "content": "I hear Turkmenistan is lovely this time of year." }, { "id": "t1_oknzmqx", "author": "/u/Absolutlyyes", "updated": "2026-05-08T16:24:51+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/oknzmqx/", "content": "Et au moins tu n’es pas dérangé par les fumeurs" }, { "id": "t1_oknxs7n", "author": "/u/Pineapple_Pen_256", "updated": "2026-05-08T16:16:35+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/oknxs7n/", "content": "I relocated to Kazakhstan and my neighbor is pissed that I got a clock radio and he cannot afford." }, { "id": "t1_okq87fd", "author": "/u/whodidntante", "updated": "2026-05-08T22:56:26+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/okq87fd/", "content": "Very nice" }, { "id": "t1_oktbgem", "author": "/u/deplorableme16", "updated": "2026-05-09T12:45:27+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/oktbgem/", "content": "Does he have a sister ?" }, { "id": "t1_oku6pn5", "author": "/u/readituser321", "updated": "2026-05-09T15:35:11+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/oku6pn5/", "content": "She number 1 prostitute in all Village" }, { "id": "t1_okoypxj", "author": "/u/IWantTheLastSlice", "updated": "2026-05-08T19:03:35+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/okoypxj/", "content": "I hear borat clearly saying, ‘he is pain in my a$$holes’" }, { "id": "t1_oks5r94", "author": "/u/Accurate-Flow8078", "updated": "2026-05-09T06:55:58+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/oks5r94/", "content": "Pain in the vagime" }, { "id": "t1_okp585f", "author": "/u/LingonberryThin7090", "updated": "2026-05-08T19:34:58+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/okp585f/", "content": "4 prostitute" }, { "id": "t1_okqowqy", "author": "/u/Lumpy-Return", "updated": "2026-05-09T00:35:39+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/okqowqy/", "content": "Just be careful swimming. The filtration system on their Olympic swimming pool is questionable, I hear." }, { "id": "t1_oku68kl", "author": "/u/PantherThing", "updated": "2026-05-09T15:32:51+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/oku68kl/", "content": "It is marvel to behold. Removes 80% of human solid waste!!" }, { "id": "t1_okpn212", "author": "/u/scoringtouchdowns", "updated": "2026-05-08T21:00:41+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/okpn212/", "content": "Lmao" }, { "id": "t1_okmwayj", "author": "/u/Excellent-Bear4221", "updated": "2026-05-08T13:27:07+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/okmwayj/", "content": "Possibly a small no utilities off-grid campsite in the Mojave?" }, { "id": "t1_okmxljm", "author": "/u/AlexRyang", "updated": "2026-05-08T13:33:30+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/okmxljm/", "content": "I hear Afghanistan is nice, this time of year." }, { "id": "t1_okmz38b", "author": "/u/TheKingOfSwing777", "updated": "2026-05-08T13:40:52+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/okmz38b/", "content": "Afghanistan is actually so beautiful though. People think desert but it has luscious meadows with streams as well. Gorgeous." }, { "id": "t1_okpag51", "author": "/u/Darnwell", "updated": "2026-05-08T19:59:51+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/okpag51/", "content": "I've heard it described as Colorado but danger." }, { "id": "t1_okpifzu", "author": "/u/Horror_Technician213", "updated": "2026-05-08T20:38:04+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/okpifzu/", "content": "Obviously its a large country with varying geography. But the mountains of Afghanistan have a similar feel to being at the bottom of the grand canyon and looking up.\n The bottom third of the country is all desert.\n Once you get to Kandahar and north, most of the civilization follows the green lush valleys of the mountains." }, { "id": "t1_oks88dp", "author": "/u/Boring_Material_1891", "updated": "2026-05-09T07:17:59+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/oks88dp/", "content": "I used to have to fly between Kandahar, Bagram, and Kabul pretty regularly and would be stuck to the plane/helicopter window the whole time. It’s just such a beautiful country." }, { "id": "t1_okndog4", "author": "/u/get_it_together1", "updated": "2026-05-08T14:48:07+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/okndog4/", "content": "Tashkent is lovely this time of year, it's got better parks, green spaces, and public transit than much of the US. If you like meat and onions and speak Uzbek you're all set!" }, { "id": "t1_okpb7sq", "author": "/u/Galagup", "updated": "2026-05-08T20:03:30+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/okpb7sq/", "content": "Just been on uk race across the world locals very friendly" }, { "id": "t1_oko8jh1", "author": "/u/BananaMelonBoat911", "updated": "2026-05-08T17:04:33+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/oko8jh1/", "content": "Fire sales in Iran right now." }, { "id": "t1_okoeb34", "author": "/u/Stickysubstance88", "updated": "2026-05-08T17:30:05+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/okoeb34/", "content": "With 225k/yr, that's just barely enough to cover soi cowboy services with a little extras. I would definitely consider Uzbekistan." }, { "id": "t1_oknpju4", "author": "/u/Substantial-Soup-730", "updated": "2026-05-08T15:40:25+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/oknpju4/", "content": "Uzbekistan is low key pretty nice lol" }, { "id": "t1_okod5tu", "author": "/u/Funny_Demand_6333", "updated": "2026-05-08T17:25:01+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/okod5tu/", "content": "I watched a documentary the other day about that part of the world the host was adamant everyone from Uzbekistan was an asshole" }, { "id": "t1_okpj8a4", "author": "/u/DownHome_Rolling", "updated": "2026-05-08T20:41:54+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/okpj8a4/", "content": "I've seen that one too. Great movie film." }, { "id": "t1_okpeeez", "author": "/u/Turbulent_Pin_8310", "updated": "2026-05-08T20:18:41+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/okpeeez/", "content": "Over 220k a year in Thailand is crazy! Most local don't even make that much. Does op have concubines?" }, { "id": "t1_okro9k8", "author": "/u/ButterscotchNo7292", "updated": "2026-05-09T04:28:15+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/okro9k8/", "content": "220k would make very comfortable life even in Switzerland,not to mention Thailand:))" }, { "id": "t1_oktch3m", "author": "/u/deplorableme16", "updated": "2026-05-09T12:51:39+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/oktch3m/", "content": "Switzerland does not allow poors like this to live there." }, { "id": "t1_okqjlt6", "author": "/u/ChuckOfTheIrish", "updated": "2026-05-09T00:03:24+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/okqjlt6/", "content": "North Sentinel Island is the way" }, { "id": "t1_oknvrz4", "author": "/u/Gareth8080", "updated": "2026-05-08T16:07:36+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/oknvrz4/", "content": "Mogadishu." }, { "id": "t1_oko5w9b", "author": "/u/SusTraveler", "updated": "2026-05-08T16:52:57+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/oko5w9b/", "content": "Sudan would be better for OP imho after a detailed financial analysis" }, { "id": "t1_okos0yv", "author": "/u/That-SoCal-Guy", "updated": "2026-05-08T18:32:11+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/okos0yv/", "content": "I heard Russia is nice." }, { "id": "t1_okqw7m0", "author": "/u/BootToTheHeadNahNah", "updated": "2026-05-09T01:20:54+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/okqw7m0/", "content": "There's no way I'm retiring to a place with inferior potassium" }, { "id": "t1_oks15it", "author": "/u/Chemical-Operation83", "updated": "2026-05-09T06:14:53+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/oks15it/", "content": "What about Iowa? You could buy a farm from one of the 70% more that are available this year that weren’t last year!" }, { "id": "t1_okmump4", "author": "/u/jamesmontanaHD", "updated": "2026-05-08T13:18:49+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/okmump4/", "content": "Nah you need to save more, cutting it too close. Go back to the grind" }, { "id": "t1_okmw7zs", "author": "/u/Excellent-Bear4221", "updated": "2026-05-08T13:26:43+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/okmw7zs/", "content": "‘Guys is this too lean?’" }, { "id": "t1_okmwas2", "author": "/u/N4003604", "updated": "2026-05-08T13:27:05+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/okmwas2/", "content": "Ha Ha. I actually did that a couple of years ago, and postponed FIRE’ing and then realized I was wasting time working when the job role expectations were misaligned. So pulled the ripcord and just quit." }, { "id": "t1_okmytlb", "author": "/u/Reticently", "updated": "2026-05-08T13:39:33+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/okmytlb/", "content": "Good for you, man! Moving to Thailand on that bag is really gilding the lily though!" }, { "id": "t1_okn1xxo", "author": "/u/DangerousBS", "updated": "2026-05-08T13:54:33+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/okn1xxo/", "content": "I'd get a vasectomy before going!!!" }, { "id": "t1_oknf5qs", "author": "/u/FitzwilliamTDarcy", "updated": "2026-05-08T14:54:41+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/oknf5qs/", "content": "And one million condoms." }, { "id": "t1_okrcjfn", "author": "/u/CurazyJ", "updated": "2026-05-09T03:04:48+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/okrcjfn/", "content": "And a load of Z-packs." }, { "id": "t1_oknvwgy", "author": "/u/jimmy-mcnuty-69", "updated": "2026-05-08T16:08:10+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/oknvwgy/", "content": "I’d get one first thing when landing. Medical procedures like that are way cheaper across the pond. Already working with a tight budget." }, { "id": "t1_okn1qjq", "author": "/u/Bennie-Factors", "updated": "2026-05-08T13:53:35+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/okn1qjq/", "content": "This. You can live in Europe and visit Thailand and have a condo in Thailand." }, { "id": "t1_okn5v3c", "author": "/u/N4003604", "updated": "2026-05-08T14:12:48+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/okn5v3c/", "content": "I lived in Europe. I would rather live in Thailand and visit Europe, than vice-versa." }, { "id": "t1_okn70rd", "author": "/u/denisgsv", "updated": "2026-05-08T14:18:09+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/okn70rd/", "content": "As one living in europe, this hurts tho agree" }, { "id": "t1_oknjp4b", "author": "/u/A70MU", "updated": "2026-05-08T15:14:48+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/oknjp4b/", "content": "could you share why? I’ve visited both places short term (1-2weeks) and feel if given the choice I’d rather live in EU and visit Thailand, love to hear your reasoning" }, { "id": "t1_oknxou5", "author": "/u/N4003604", "updated": "2026-05-08T16:16:10+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/oknxou5/", "content": "Thailand is far, far safer than anywhere in Europe. There is no real crime that impacts you, compared to Europe. It’s warm all year round. It’s a comfortable, low stress place to live without too many hassles. It’s generally less expensive than Europe with greater value. Europe is easily accessible, depending on where you want to go, and tons of places to visit." }, { "id": "t1_oko4vgr", "author": "/u/boforbojack", "updated": "2026-05-08T16:48:26+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/oko4vgr/", "content": "Far, far safer is just a crazy statement. On par with most of western Europe when considering violent crime against tourists sure. But financial scams, petty theft, and general safety is all worse in Thailand." }, { "id": "t1_oko8ivc", "author": "/u/N4003604", "updated": "2026-05-08T17:04:29+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/oko8ivc/", "content": "This is total nonsense. There is really no violent crime against tourists here unless you’re involved in bar fights. Go to London, Paris, Brussels and Rome …you can’t walk outside with a nice watch, you have to guard your mobile phone for your life, can’t do anything without being aware of your surroundings. Financial scams are everywhere." }, { "id": "t1_okofbl8", "author": "/u/a_whole_enchilada", "updated": "2026-05-08T17:34:36+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/okofbl8/", "content": "You're comparing one spot in Thailand with many in Europe." }, { "id": "t1_okofebw", "author": "/u/boforbojack", "updated": "2026-05-08T17:34:56+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/okofebw/", "content": "Rome and Berlin are both on par with Bangkok. And when you get outside of high-demand tourist locations, Western Europe far exceeds safety as the most common thing to happen to you become a traffic accident, which is way worse in Thailand. You used the far, far safer than anywhere in Western Europe. Thats objectively false." }, { "id": "t1_okoktfe", "author": "/u/Necessary-Lynx1585", "updated": "2026-05-08T17:59:05+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/okoktfe/", "content": "Thailand is incredibly safe\n Live here for years - not a single problem" }, { "id": "t1_okosj4t", "author": "/u/boforbojack", "updated": "2026-05-08T18:34:34+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/okosj4t/", "content": "The question isnt, "Is Thailand safe". Im not arguing that it isnt. But comparing it to western Europe and saying it is far, far safer (like OP is saying in this thread) is just pretending that Europe is a hellscape" }, { "id": "t1_okpav8w", "author": "/u/Eastfalia", "updated": "2026-05-08T20:01:50+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/okpav8w/", "content": ""warm all year round"\n *It's hot as fuck every day." }, { "id": "t1_oknq3v3", "author": "/u/E90-335xi", "updated": "2026-05-08T15:42:49+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/oknq3v3/", "content": "rosetta" }, { "id": "t1_oko6dqz", "author": "/u/rach2bach", "updated": "2026-05-08T16:55:05+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/oko6dqz/", "content": "Just out of curiosity, what part of Thailand? I'm in my mid 30s and nowhere near your fire number... But I've been to Thailand and loved Chiang mai, curious where you've headed in case I want future advice." }, { "id": "t1_okpok40", "author": "/u/BPiranesi", "updated": "2026-05-08T21:08:13+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/okpok40/", "content": "Living in Chiang Mai will give you lung cancer in less than 10 years unless you install positive air pressure and stay inside during peak. In BKK, still survivable, but you should have decent purifier.\n I would look for southern part of Thailand tbh.\n From a local guy btw" }, { "id": "t1_oko9ebd", "author": "/u/N4003604", "updated": "2026-05-08T17:08:18+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/oko9ebd/", "content": "Bangkok. And will spend some time in Isaan." }, { "id": "t1_oknazq9", "author": "/u/EuphoriaSoul", "updated": "2026-05-08T14:36:05+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/oknazq9/", "content": "Why do you need $200k plus a year in Thailand?" }, { "id": "t1_okneyj1", "author": "/u/TeeDeeTeeEcks", "updated": "2026-05-08T14:53:48+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/okneyj1/", "content": "Two chicks dudes at the same time" }, { "id": "t1_okot0zi", "author": "/u/Bruceshadow", "updated": "2026-05-08T18:36:52+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/okot0zi/", "content": "chudes?" }, { "id": "t1_okq2m2q", "author": "/u/MTonmyMind", "updated": "2026-05-08T22:23:47+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/okq2m2q/", "content": "Only two??? ..... amateur." }, { "id": "t1_oknbu3c", "author": "/u/Excellent-Bear4221", "updated": "2026-05-08T14:39:55+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/oknbu3c/", "content": "He wants to live the life I guess. Or maybe he wants live-in servants. Who knows who cares he got FIREd" }, { "id": "t1_oknnw48", "author": "/u/EuphoriaSoul", "updated": "2026-05-08T15:33:11+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/oknnw48/", "content": "I’m just curious to see how OP is living his life. Maybe there are fun things I haven’t considered. Not meant for it to be judging." }, { "id": "t1_okqr4km", "author": "/u/Psiwolf", "updated": "2026-05-09T00:49:21+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/okqr4km/", "content": "This is what I want when I FIRE. 12mm+ liquid NW, 44yo atm. I thought about retiring in the Philippines or Thailand or somewhere so I can hire full time household staff, like head maid, assistant maid, butler, driver, chef/ nutritionist, fitness trainer. 😁👍" }, { "id": "t1_oko58wu", "author": "/u/Platos-ghosts", "updated": "2026-05-08T16:50:04+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/oko58wu/", "content": "He well exceeds “need”, especially in Thailand. OP will be living it up big time! He can 100% hire out all services, maids-cooks-chauffeur in Thailand on that $$." }, { "id": "t1_okn4b5p", "author": "/u/woodchip4", "updated": "2026-05-08T14:05:36+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/okn4b5p/", "content": "Did we really need to downvote him for this honest comment?" }, { "id": "t1_okop5fh", "author": "/u/M-3X", "updated": "2026-05-08T18:18:48+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/okop5fh/", "content": "good job and smart moves.\n Enjoy every day. Life is short. This planet has many beautiful places.\n stay healthy and have fun." }, { "id": "t1_oko7r2o", "author": "/u/Easy_Letterhead8928", "updated": "2026-05-08T17:01:05+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/oko7r2o/", "content": "if $7.5m in Thailand is cutting it close then my retirement plan is just me freebasing instant noodles in silence" }, { "id": "t1_oknzrak", "author": "/u/JohnnyWix", "updated": "2026-05-08T16:25:24+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/oknzrak/", "content": "I completely agree. A range of $225k to $225k doesn’t offer much flexibility." }, { "id": "t1_okrcetm", "author": "/u/flappysack-", "updated": "2026-05-09T03:03:55+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/okrcetm/", "content": "What if you need to buy an emergency condo in Thailand to house your Tupperware?" }, { "id": "t1_oko4azx", "author": "/u/rabidstoat", "updated": "2026-05-08T16:45:53+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/oko4azx/", "content": ""I have $7.5M as a 56 year old single man, can I afford to retire?"" }, { "id": "t1_oknj341", "author": "/u/Fluid-Expert-4363", "updated": "2026-05-08T15:12:07+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/oknj341/", "content": "Right? Op has like two weeks with this peasant pay.\n Apply yourself next time, champ" }, { "id": "t1_okmyao6", "author": "/u/Upper_War_846", "updated": "2026-05-08T13:36:57+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/okmyao6/", "content": "Thank god you got that social security coming in!" }, { "id": "t1_oko7u6b", "author": "/u/LaCroixIsntThatBad", "updated": "2026-05-08T17:01:28+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/oko7u6b/", "content": "IDK how someone with $7.5M in the bank would only be eligible for $1400 in SS. Even if they start drawing at 62 lol." }, { "id": "t1_okodhtk", "author": "/u/UnlikelyTourist9637", "updated": "2026-05-08T17:26:30+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/okodhtk/", "content": "Most of his gains are probably stock options which don't contribute to social security. Maybe some inheritance also?\n Social security contributions are capped and you have to work at least 20 years at the top cap to maximize your payout." }, { "id": "t1_okqzzs9", "author": "/u/N4003604", "updated": "2026-05-09T01:44:27+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/okqzzs9/", "content": "It’s simply due to mostly working abroad my career, and not contributing to social security every year. Correct I qualify due to the amount of time I did work in the US." }, { "id": "t1_okw9en8", "author": "/u/confused_grenadille", "updated": "2026-05-09T22:08:58+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/okw9en8/", "content": "What was your occupation/field if you don’t mind sharing?" }, { "id": "t1_okwaoj4", "author": "/u/N4003604", "updated": "2026-05-09T22:16:33+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/okwaoj4/", "content": "Finance." }, { "id": "t1_okodd9t", "author": "/u/ept_engr", "updated": "2026-05-08T17:25:56+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/okodd9t/", "content": "Mommy and daddy worked really hard to earn it." }, { "id": "t1_okr053o", "author": "/u/N4003604", "updated": "2026-05-09T01:45:21+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/okr053o/", "content": "Nope. I started out with -$100K due to student loans. Mom and dad helped but I certainly did my share." }, { "id": "t1_okr48ry", "author": "/u/TexasHazeMaster", "updated": "2026-05-09T02:10:47+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/okr48ry/", "content": "Do you remember the size of your portfolio at 39? You’ve done well, congrats!" }, { "id": "t1_okr8oa6", "author": "/u/N4003604", "updated": "2026-05-09T02:39:10+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/okr8oa6/", "content": "Probably about $2M, plus or minus." }, { "id": "t1_okrf3rv", "author": "/u/ept_engr", "updated": "2026-05-09T03:22:21+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/okrf3rv/", "content": "Why is your social security only $1400? That indicates an income level quite a bit lower than what is usually needed to amass $7M by age 56." }, { "id": "t1_okrfmij", "author": "/u/N4003604", "updated": "2026-05-09T03:25:59+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/okrfmij/", "content": "Foreign earned income and investment growth." }, { "id": "t1_okqzr7j", "author": "/u/N4003604", "updated": "2026-05-09T01:42:58+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/okqzr7j/", "content": "A lot of my income was made while I worked abroad which means I didn’t contribute my entire career into social security. Hence the low, nominal figure." }, { "id": "t1_okp4irg", "author": "", "updated": "2026-05-08T19:31:32+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/okp4irg/", "content": "[deleted]" }, { "id": "t1_oktb9us", "author": "/u/deplorableme16", "updated": "2026-05-09T12:44:19+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/oktb9us/", "content": "sounds like he's the personality type that likes wants the complexity, it's a hobby I guess" }, { "id": "t1_okrf31a", "author": "/u/BeatDense9049", "updated": "2026-05-09T03:22:13+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/okrf31a/", "content": "Gets to Thailand meets Thai girl gets murdered…. First week." }, { "id": "t1_okszud5", "author": "/u/Geoarbitrage", "updated": "2026-05-09T11:27:28+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/okszud5/", "content": "With a big smile though." }, { "id": "t1_okt7qmw", "author": "/u/BeatDense9049", "updated": "2026-05-09T12:21:45+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/okt7qmw/", "content": "YUP guess went out happy LOL!!! Better than years of getting eaten alive in a bad marriage" }, { "id": "t1_oky9exs", "author": "/u/WildCasa", "updated": "2026-05-10T06:13:24+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/oky9exs/", "content": "*Meets Thai lady boy" }, { "id": "t1_oko2sjd", "author": "/u/weahman", "updated": "2026-05-08T16:39:06+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/oko2sjd/", "content": "*buddha" }, { "id": "t1_okr9s4a", "author": "/u/rod88888888", "updated": "2026-05-09T02:46:32+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/okr9s4a/", "content": "Live modestly. Never ever let anyone know your income and net worth, especially in Thailand." }, { "id": "t1_oktbdtj", "author": "/u/deplorableme16", "updated": "2026-05-09T12:45:01+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/oktbdtj/", "content": "They're probably gonna figure it out. Does he really want to spend 25 years in Thailand though ? To each their own ." }, { "id": "t1_okmy662", "author": "", "updated": "2026-05-08T13:36:20+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/okmy662/", "content": "[deleted]" }, { "id": "t1_oknaaf0", "author": "/u/Similar-Wolverine-10", "updated": "2026-05-08T14:32:55+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/oknaaf0/", "content": "I checked what sub we were in like three times while reading this post. Craziness" }, { "id": "t1_okplyin", "author": "/u/divyaanantharaman", "updated": "2026-05-08T20:55:15+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/okplyin/", "content": "Same same!" }, { "id": "t1_okp9353", "author": "/u/Gorgenapper", "updated": "2026-05-08T19:53:26+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/okp9353/", "content": "Guys I have 72 million, moved to Papua New Guinea where the average person earns less than 5 bucks a day, can I FIRE there?" }, { "id": "t1_okmv2z0", "author": "", "updated": "2026-05-08T13:21:04+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/okmv2z0/", "content": "[deleted]" }, { "id": "t1_okmvb91", "author": "/u/lyticza", "updated": "2026-05-08T13:22:13+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/okmvb91/", "content": "Bang 20 year old hookers of course like all old western guys" }, { "id": "t1_okmwoxz", "author": "", "updated": "2026-05-08T13:29:03+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/okmwoxz/", "content": "[deleted]" }, { "id": "t1_okn04i2", "author": "/u/Fed_worker", "updated": "2026-05-08T13:45:54+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/okn04i2/", "content": "Guess it’s cheaper and mostly legal over there." }, { "id": "t1_okn4jgr", "author": "/u/rycelover", "updated": "2026-05-08T14:06:40+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/okn4jgr/", "content": "Prostitution is illegal in Thailand." }, { "id": "t1_okqpvh5", "author": "/u/QQBBOMG", "updated": "2026-05-09T00:41:39+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/okqpvh5/", "content": "So that still doesn’t answer the question. With that networth, why are you still choosing Thailand." }, { "id": "t1_oks33c8", "author": "/u/N4003604", "updated": "2026-05-09T06:32:09+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/oks33c8/", "content": "My wife is Thai and quality of life." }, { "id": "t1_okvj3t0", "author": "/u/8thmiracle", "updated": "2026-05-09T19:42:54+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/okvj3t0/", "content": "Thai wife is the only thing that makes sense assuming you are for real. With that money I would refuse to even fly over Thailand. I would base myself in Greece and travel half the year." }, { "id": "t1_oks9vlp", "author": "/u/IcyDistribution400", "updated": "2026-05-09T07:33:03+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/oks9vlp/", "content": "The questions these guys on Reddit are asking you are absurd. lol and assuming you are going there for cheap hookers is insane. People need to travel more." }, { "id": "t1_oktzoay", "author": "/u/N4003604", "updated": "2026-05-09T14:59:33+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/oktzoay/", "content": "Yep." }, { "id": "t1_okn4rbz", "author": "", "updated": "2026-05-08T14:07:42+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/okn4rbz/", "content": "[deleted]" }, { "id": "t1_okn5fxb", "author": "", "updated": "2026-05-08T14:10:51+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/okn5fxb/", "content": "[deleted]" }, { "id": "t1_oknqma8", "author": "/u/Working-Active", "updated": "2026-05-08T15:45:01+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/oknqma8/", "content": "I've always wondered about those lyrics.\n One night in Bangkok and the world's your oyster\n The bars are temples but the pearls ain't free\n You'll find a god in every golden cloister\n And if you're lucky then the god's a she\n I can feel an angel sliding up to me" }, { "id": "t1_okn5s3l", "author": "/u/Ricky-Spanish-31", "updated": "2026-05-08T14:12:25+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/okn5s3l/", "content": "3 legs, in a lot of cases." }, { "id": "t1_oknse22", "author": "/u/PageExtension3962", "updated": "2026-05-08T15:52:42+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/oknse22/", "content": "This made me laugh like hell. Nice one." }, { "id": "t1_okn1cw1", "author": "/u/Financial-Barnacle79", "updated": "2026-05-08T13:51:47+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/okn1cw1/", "content": "Ehh they do but not to the extent that , but it’s just very heavily prevalent /normalized in Thailand. You automatically assume any white man in their 60s with a 20ish Thai woman has retired/relocated there." }, { "id": "t1_oko54u1", "author": "/u/boforbojack", "updated": "2026-05-08T16:49:34+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/oko54u1/", "content": "He said he thinks Thailand is far, far safer than anywhere in Europe. That should tell you all you need to know." }, { "id": "t1_okn5cqz", "author": "/u/SixScoop", "updated": "2026-05-08T14:10:26+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/okn5cqz/", "content": "His wife is Thai lol, says it further down. Kind of a prickish comment" }, { "id": "t1_oko07xd", "author": "/u/mlk960", "updated": "2026-05-08T16:27:28+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/oko07xd/", "content": "And how did this woman come to be his wife?" }, { "id": "t1_okps6ci", "author": "", "updated": "2026-05-08T21:26:50+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/okps6ci/", "content": "[deleted]" }, { "id": "t1_okqdfnv", "author": "/u/CompanyOther2608", "updated": "2026-05-08T23:27:09+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/okqdfnv/", "content": "And now we’re back to the original post 💰😅. Quite a complicated journey." }, { "id": "t1_oko3us3", "author": "/u/Op_ivy1", "updated": "2026-05-08T16:43:52+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/oko3us3/", "content": "This is the real question." }, { "id": "t1_okoffz1", "author": "/u/CharmingJuice8304", "updated": "2026-05-08T17:35:08+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/okoffz1/", "content": "Nah. Let OP live his best life. It doesn't affect me." }, { "id": "t1_okorus6", "author": "/u/Op_ivy1", "updated": "2026-05-08T18:31:22+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/okorus6/", "content": "Absolutely - no judgments, but I’m still super curious lol" }, { "id": "t1_oknxmq3", "author": "/u/Aggravating_Ring_714", "updated": "2026-05-08T16:15:54+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/oknxmq3/", "content": "390 likes for such an embarrassing comment lol. Thailand has amazing quality of life if you have money and it’s way safer than most Western countries." }, { "id": "t1_oko5gee", "author": "/u/boforbojack", "updated": "2026-05-08T16:50:59+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/oko5gee/", "content": "Im not against Thailand. I lived in Guatemala for 8 years, beautiful country, great QOL for our expenses, and imo incredibly safe everywhere I would go.\n But to call it safer than most Western countries is just crazy." }, { "id": "t1_okoh3ne", "author": "/u/GrunDMC74", "updated": "2026-05-08T17:42:31+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/okoh3ne/", "content": "That’s my thing. I know what I thought when I saw old pink guys in Thailand and I don’t want people thinking that when they look at me." }, { "id": "t1_oknnlpd", "author": "/u/bankermayfield2026", "updated": "2026-05-08T15:31:56+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/oknnlpd/", "content": "The issue is, when you have this much money, one of them will convince you that you are both in love with each other, and you end up as a 57 year old with a newborn, paying for her family." }, { "id": "t1_oknwauf", "author": "", "updated": "2026-05-08T16:09:57+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/oknwauf/", "content": "[deleted]" }, { "id": "t1_okmvuid", "author": "/u/N4003604", "updated": "2026-05-08T13:24:52+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/okmvuid/", "content": "Family considerations." }, { "id": "t1_okmyqsq", "author": "/u/OMNeigh", "updated": "2026-05-08T13:39:10+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/okmyqsq/", "content": "You are Thai?" }, { "id": "t1_okmz6sd", "author": "/u/N4003604", "updated": "2026-05-08T13:41:20+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/okmz6sd/", "content": "My spouse is a Thai national." }, { "id": "t1_okmzp3f", "author": "/u/fafatzy", "updated": "2026-05-08T13:43:50+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/okmzp3f/", "content": "Is Thailand nice to live ?" }, { "id": "t1_okn122e", "author": "/u/recoil669", "updated": "2026-05-08T13:50:21+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/okn122e/", "content": "When you get 225k a year to live I'm sure it's very cozy." }, { "id": "t1_okn9rg6", "author": "/u/thailanddaydreamer", "updated": "2026-05-08T14:30:31+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/okn9rg6/", "content": "I don't even know how you could spend that in Thailand. He'll live like a literal king there on that money." }, { "id": "t1_oko5pml", "author": "/u/DangerousPurpose5661", "updated": "2026-05-08T16:52:08+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/oko5pml/", "content": "Meh Bangkok can be pricy. Plenty of high end condos in the 10k/ month range.\n Imported stuff and western comforts are pricy.\n I can easily spend 200k in Bangkok" }, { "id": "t1_okn31i1", "author": "/u/batmandude1", "updated": "2026-05-08T13:59:43+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/okn31i1/", "content": "Thailand and the Philippines are the same in terms of cost of living. For two people, expenses in a month can range from $1,000 to $5,000 depending how lavish you want to live. That’s about $12,000 to $60,000 a year.. Having a budget of $225,000 a year is.. Living the high life. Very cozy indeed" }, { "id": "t1_okn6oak", "author": "/u/N4003604", "updated": "2026-05-08T14:16:32+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/okn6oak/", "content": "Thailand and Philippines aren’t the same. It’s been a long time since I was in the Philippines but I never felt safe there visiting on holiday and the infrastructure was awful." }, { "id": "t1_oknhkk3", "author": "/u/Aggnpwease", "updated": "2026-05-08T15:05:23+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/oknhkk3/", "content": "nah man Philippines and Thailand are miles apart, sure could be similar in some ways if you are a retired expat looking for lost love here, but the rest… infrastructure and so on are night and day." }, { "id": "t1_oknju72", "author": "/u/Witty_Badger7938", "updated": "2026-05-08T15:15:26+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/oknju72/", "content": "The food is trash in PH" }, { "id": "t1_okn0veg", "author": "/u/N4003604", "updated": "2026-05-08T13:49:28+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/okn0veg/", "content": "Yes, it can be." }, { "id": "t1_oknjlsb", "author": "/u/Witty_Badger7938", "updated": "2026-05-08T15:14:24+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/oknjlsb/", "content": "Yeah but they have terrible foreign investment laws. He is lucky his wife is a Thai national, that way he can actually buy a property outright although it will be by law only 50% his." }, { "id": "t1_okne2vn", "author": "/u/vega_9", "updated": "2026-05-08T14:49:55+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/okne2vn/", "content": "I live here, it's amazing" }, { "id": "t1_okp7hpx", "author": "/u/vanquishedfoe", "updated": "2026-05-08T19:45:52+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/okp7hpx/", "content": "What do you expect to spend 225k a year on in Thailand?\n Travel maybe? (Honestly curious. That's my yearly withdrawal amount in a HCOL city in the us. I imagine you could do much more on Thailand)" }, { "id": "t1_okn000d", "author": "/u/FrontLifeguard1962", "updated": "2026-05-08T13:45:18+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/okn000d/", "content": "Thailand will give you permanent residency automatically if you put enough money in one of their banks. A lot of countries will do that though." }, { "id": "t1_okn12f0", "author": "/u/N4003604", "updated": "2026-05-08T13:50:24+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/okn12f0/", "content": "Thailand is good in this regard, offering a lot of flexible long stay visa options." }, { "id": "t1_okn428e", "author": "/u/AlanShore60607", "updated": "2026-05-08T14:04:27+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/okn428e/", "content": "What's the number for Thailand?" }, { "id": "t1_oknacj4", "author": "/u/thailanddaydreamer", "updated": "2026-05-08T14:33:10+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/oknacj4/", "content": "25k in bank for retirement visa." }, { "id": "t1_oknaknb", "author": "/u/AlanShore60607", "updated": "2026-05-08T14:34:11+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/oknaknb/", "content": "That's all?\n WTF am I still doing in the United States?" }, { "id": "t1_oknen8e", "author": "/u/ExpatCrypto", "updated": "2026-05-08T14:52:25+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/oknen8e/", "content": "That’s a yearly non-imm visa. Not PR" }, { "id": "t1_oknvxvz", "author": "/u/AlanShore60607", "updated": "2026-05-08T16:08:21+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/oknvxvz/", "content": "What does that mean functionally?\n Does it mean I have to deposit $25K every year, or that I have to maintain a balance greater than $25K for as long as I'm there?" }, { "id": "t1_okpb43c", "author": "/u/ExpatCrypto", "updated": "2026-05-08T20:03:01+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/okpb43c/", "content": "Can’t remember the specifics, need to have a bank account in Thailand with 800k baht (vaguely think with 2 month look back), along with all the other paperwork, and be over 50. You reapply every year." }, { "id": "t1_okpbvu4", "author": "/u/AlanShore60607", "updated": "2026-05-08T20:06:40+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/okpbvu4/", "content": "So basically I need to keep a $25K reserve? I could probably do that." }, { "id": "t1_oko3ijg", "author": "/u/kee_nok", "updated": "2026-05-08T16:42:21+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/oko3ijg/", "content": "This is complete bullshit. Other countries might do that, Thailand does not." }, { "id": "t1_okmzp1t", "author": "/u/Puzzleheaded-Bus1331", "updated": "2026-05-08T13:43:49+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/okmzp1t/", "content": "Have you been to Thailand? Nice weather, good food, goo ladies. Wtf else do you need lol" }, { "id": "t1_oknf0wi", "author": "/u/derff44", "updated": "2026-05-08T14:54:05+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/oknf0wi/", "content": "It's the goo ladies for me" }, { "id": "t1_okngcmb", "author": "/u/Unique_Box_4536", "updated": "2026-05-08T14:59:58+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/okngcmb/", "content": "He wants to bang ladyboys half his age 😂" }, { "id": "t1_okoayz8", "author": "/u/cancer171", "updated": "2026-05-08T17:15:19+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/okoayz8/", "content": "Bangkok is the most visited city in the world, far surpassing NYC, Paris, or London. As a result there are lot of foreigner and expat friendly infrastructure in place from turnkey serviced apartments, world class Asian & international food from fine dining to budget, sports & wellness clubs, quick flights to weekend beach and city destinations, and really anything you could ask for. The people are friendly and there’s a budding expat community." }, { "id": "t1_okn32il", "author": "/u/Inside_Debate2122", "updated": "2026-05-08T13:59:51+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/okn32il/", "content": "Ladybois!" }, { "id": "t1_okobvr5", "author": "/u/rruler", "updated": "2026-05-08T17:19:20+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/okobvr5/", "content": "It’s also a dope ass country with amazing food and easy flights to other amazing Asian destinations." }, { "id": "t1_oknilgn", "author": "/u/BarracudaDismal4782", "updated": "2026-05-08T15:09:57+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/oknilgn/", "content": "2 words: ping-pong balls" }, { "id": "t1_oko6mx1", "author": "/u/Ok-Ad6253", "updated": "2026-05-08T16:56:13+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/oko6mx1/", "content": "cause thailand is awesome. its got everything from beaufitul beaches to mountains and temples and some of the best food on earth. plus the people there are nice. its got cute, feminine women. i may be biased here but i dont see a problem with wanting to move there for other reasons than its just cheaper than the standarized western country" }, { "id": "t1_okq3ma1", "author": "/u/Baeshun", "updated": "2026-05-08T22:29:39+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/okq3ma1/", "content": "I think you know… 😏" }, { "id": "t1_okmvi8g", "author": "", "updated": "2026-05-08T13:23:10+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/okmvi8g/", "content": "[deleted]" }, { "id": "t1_okmw7md", "author": "/u/sicknessF", "updated": "2026-05-08T13:26:40+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/okmw7md/", "content": "My gorillion dollars consumes too many bananas, this is why I need to move to Thailand" }, { "id": "t1_okn6nmk", "author": "/u/Common-Swing-4347", "updated": "2026-05-08T14:16:27+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/okn6nmk/", "content": "Thank you did your attention to this matter. -Some rich dude." }, { "id": "t1_okn5k3p", "author": "/u/tycointl", "updated": "2026-05-08T14:11:23+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/okn5k3p/", "content": "At first glance, I thought your sentence started saying i have 8 penises and it had me trippin'" }, { "id": "t1_oknfv27", "author": "/u/TeeDeeTeeEcks", "updated": "2026-05-08T14:57:46+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/oknfv27/", "content": "Penisial Independence, Retire Early" }, { "id": "t1_okn0s6k", "author": "/u/Sensei_Daniel_San", "updated": "2026-05-08T13:49:03+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/okn0s6k/", "content": "Are you the dude from The White Lotus?" }, { "id": "t1_oknkxdl", "author": "/u/neoneccentric", "updated": "2026-05-08T15:20:11+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/oknkxdl/", "content": "LBH" }, { "id": "t1_okor4sa", "author": "/u/Dos-Commas", "updated": "2026-05-08T18:28:01+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/okor4sa/", "content": "Gary. OP's wife tragically fell off a boat after a gun fight." }, { "id": "t1_okprkit", "author": "/u/mkla01", "updated": "2026-05-08T21:23:43+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/okprkit/", "content": "#justicefortanya" }, { "id": "t1_okuusyz", "author": "/u/zero2g", "updated": "2026-05-09T17:36:25+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/okuusyz/", "content": "I didn't know BLM pays that much" }, { "id": "t1_okmwovy", "author": "/u/FormalCaseQ", "updated": "2026-05-08T13:29:02+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/okmwovy/", "content": "Exactly what comments were you looking for here? You already know that withdrawal amount will be more than sufficient in Thailand. Did you post this simply to get people to praise your investment portfolio?" }, { "id": "t1_okmxwge", "author": "/u/HopperCraft", "updated": "2026-05-08T13:35:01+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/okmxwge/", "content": "When you achieve FIRE, you can't really just go around telling your social circle. It creates divides and snakes. Its healthier to claim your fame here and have genuine congratulations from others with a similar mindset. Plus, his portfolio insights can help those who are confused about individual stocks and (for me) what an income sleeve is." }, { "id": "t1_oknegn2", "author": "/u/YuckyBurps", "updated": "2026-05-08T14:51:37+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/oknegn2/", "content": "His portfolio is straight dogshit garbage. At the end of the day he’s buying options on margin. He’s basically placing bets where he would be obligated to buy stock at less than its present value. To hedge against that risk he’s holding enough cash so that he can buy these shares if he needs to….. to get this cash he’s using another separate options strategy that amounts to a loan….. in order to secure an effective interest rate that doesn’t make this all complete nonsense, the structure of this loan is such that it’s very costly to get out of and, runs the risk of getting margin called which basically means he has to instantly come up with additional cash or the broker pulls the rug out from underneath him and sells off the assets he used to create this loan structure, with the end result being that he has to eat shit. So if the market experiences a severe downturn not only does he have to contend with the risk of coming up with cash to buy stock for more then it’s worth, he also has to come up with cash to prevent this entire loan structure he’s built from getting blown apart.\n If the market experiences a shock this Rube Goldberg machine he’s built could easily and disastrously unravel. All of this complexity with all this additional risk for some options premiums.\n Unless you’re a trading firm using sophisticated risk and volatility algorithms to spot risk premium gaps then options trading is virtually guaranteed to lose you money over the long run. There is no such thing as risk free money. It doesn’t exist. If it did then everyone and their grandma would be doing it until it’s no longer risk free. What OP described is called “gambling” which is a strategy that works until it doesn’t and if you’re a retail trader it simply doesn’t.\n You will make more money just holding the underlying asset and selling it when you need the cash. What this guy is" }, { "id": "t1_okof9rj", "author": "/u/__plankton__", "updated": "2026-05-08T17:34:22+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/okof9rj/", "content": "I've re-read the OP a few times trying to wrap my head around it, and I don't understand the purpose? Why use options for downside risk when they're only budgeting a 3% total withdraw rate? Why not just shift towards bonds if you're worried, or consider buying some annuities to guarantee cashflow?" }, { "id": "t1_oknqeob", "author": "/u/S7EFEN", "updated": "2026-05-08T15:44:06+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/oknqeob/", "content": "selling (market downside) insurance is pretty free money... until you have to pay out." }, { "id": "t1_oknykn3", "author": "/u/YuckyBurps", "updated": "2026-05-08T16:20:07+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/oknykn3/", "content": "Perfectly said. Sucks even more when your payouts are on borrowed money." }, { "id": "t1_okn766q", "author": "/u/syphax", "updated": "2026-05-08T14:18:49+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/okn766q/", "content": "It got me to look up box loans" }, { "id": "t1_oknajq2", "author": "/u/syphax", "updated": "2026-05-08T14:34:04+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/oknajq2/", "content": "Which lead me here: https://www.reddit.com/r/PMTraders/comments/pziqxa/spx_box_spreads_what_they_are_and_how_to_use_them/\n However, the link to a PDF in that post is 404'd; here's the file: https://www.optionseducation.org/getmedia/2ae6c8bd-9a8e-4d2f-8168-19b6ff9e3589/listed-options-box-spread-strategies-for-borrowing-or-lending-cash.pdf" }, { "id": "t1_oknqqg9", "author": "/u/S7EFEN", "updated": "2026-05-08T15:45:31+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/oknqqg9/", "content": "https://www.reddit.com/r/fatFIRE/comments/1qco8lm/anyone_executed_an_spx_box_spread_loan_through_a/\n https://www.reddit.com/r/investing/comments/fehabt/box_spread_financing_for_extremely_cheap_085/\n box spreads are about the only really super relevant part of this post because yeah, if you do them properly they're just really good low % loans." }, { "id": "t1_okn9p7h", "author": "/u/starmartyr11", "updated": "2026-05-08T14:30:14+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/okn9p7h/", "content": "Is it like a wizard's sleeve" }, { "id": "t1_okn21t9", "author": "/u/livsjollyranchers", "updated": "2026-05-08T13:55:05+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/okn21t9/", "content": "Dude could purchase all of Thailand if he lets the money compound enough." }, { "id": "t1_okn9m76", "author": "/u/Polarbear3838", "updated": "2026-05-08T14:29:52+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/okn9m76/", "content": "Man maybe he just wanted to share his story and experience. He's even being nice in the comments, even with all the weird hooker comments\n I personally found his post interesting and fun to read" }, { "id": "t1_okmx8f8", "author": "/u/ProfessionalMottsman", "updated": "2026-05-08T13:31:41+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/okmx8f8/", "content": "Even with a cocaine and woman habit you’d still survive til age 150" }, { "id": "t1_oknc04c", "author": "/u/DontEatConcrete", "updated": "2026-05-08T14:40:40+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/oknc04c/", "content": "Not in Thailand my friend. Some of the women there have magic powers to pull money out of wealthy “expats”.\n I have a brother who is on his second one. He’s broke as a joke now in his 50’s. Has made great money his entire life.\n Geo arbitrage loses its shine when your batgirl single parent is now carrying your kids as well. Oops!" }, { "id": "t1_oknwvtc", "author": "/u/rolledtacos74", "updated": "2026-05-08T16:12:32+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/oknwvtc/", "content": "There’s a whole YouTube channel dedicated to telling stories of how the bar girls in Thailand separate expats from their money. Fascinating stuff." }, { "id": "t1_okoo2hg", "author": "/u/uhm-wait-what", "updated": "2026-05-08T18:13:50+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/okoo2hg/", "content": "i'm morbidly curious, what's the channel" }, { "id": "t1_okou7ra", "author": "/u/rolledtacos74", "updated": "2026-05-08T18:42:28+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/okou7ra/", "content": "Inside Thailand Stories" }, { "id": "t1_okr0ode", "author": "/u/N4003604", "updated": "2026-05-09T01:48:38+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/okr0ode/", "content": "Yep. Very true. But you really need to separate out Thai bar girls vs normal middle and upper class Thai women. They’re not the same. The latter are far more secure and well grounded, and make perfect life companions." }, { "id": "t1_okr0fgp", "author": "/u/N4003604", "updated": "2026-05-09T01:47:09+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/okr0fgp/", "content": "Yep. You’re right. I’ve seen crazy things. Though it usually happens when expats bring their expat wives, and dump them and their kids for hot local young girls.\n It’s messy to say the least." }, { "id": "t1_okov0l6", "author": "/u/Bruceshadow", "updated": "2026-05-08T18:46:13+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/okov0l6/", "content": "not sure you understand how cocaine works..." }, { "id": "t1_okmx8w6", "author": "/u/MohawkPuck", "updated": "2026-05-08T13:31:45+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/okmx8w6/", "content": "I hate it here" }, { "id": "t1_okn2hi0", "author": "/u/kongkr1t", "updated": "2026-05-08T13:57:08+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/okn2hi0/", "content": "Thai here. advice re: - accommodation = rent. it's a renter's market as rental yield is generally low. - car = maybe a monthly rental for the first couple of months as you get to see whether you enjoy the driving? at your burn rate, you can easily hire a full-time chauffer. - find a credit card that has the best FX rate. pay for all the items that can be paid for via a credit card using credit card. legally, you aren't transferring any money into the country and won't be liable for any possible remittance tax. - get good health insurance. first class private hospitals have very good services." }, { "id": "t1_okquo3v", "author": "/u/N4003604", "updated": "2026-05-09T01:11:19+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/okquo3v/", "content": "I’m with you almost 100%: 1. I already own a condo but will rent for the first year or so a much larger better place.\n\n- I’ve driven for many years in Thailand. I will rent a car until i figure out what I want to drive. I am thinking of buying a tesla model y.\n\n- I have US credit cards that incur no FX fees and give me 2% of my spend in cash back. Everything I do will be charged to them.\n\n- I have international global expat, not Thai, health insurance for my wife and I. It costs, now $5,000 a year but I consider it well worth it.\n All solid points you make!" }, { "id": "t1_okrbd5s", "author": "/u/somehowintelligent", "updated": "2026-05-09T02:57:01+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/okrbd5s/", "content": "Can you help me understand why anyone would willingly drive in Thailand when a full time chauffeur costs 30k a month?" }, { "id": "t1_okrgr4b", "author": "/u/N4003604", "updated": "2026-05-09T03:33:59+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/okrgr4b/", "content": "I had one back in the day. It’s a nuisance. Go find the chauffeur, first. Then deal with all their drama, days off, sick, extra payments, requests for school fees, sick buffalos, being nosey, drug issues, etc…\n Many, many of the upper middle class and wealthy Thai I know ditch their drivers.\n Later in life, maybe when I become incapacitated, I will get one." }, { "id": "t1_okrp11e", "author": "/u/tomahawk66mtb", "updated": "2026-05-09T04:34:01+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/okrp11e/", "content": "And the gossip. Everyone knows your business when you have a driver" }, { "id": "t1_okrsqks", "author": "/u/N4003604", "updated": "2026-05-09T05:03:19+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/okrsqks/", "content": "Absolutely. Then you can get blackmailed. I’ve seen it happen. And for all the people who worry about me getting murdered or kidnapped having a driver increases those odds!!!" }, { "id": "t1_oknnrq0", "author": "/u/GustavVigeland", "updated": "2026-05-08T15:32:40+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/oknnrq0/", "content": "Rental yield low in Thailand? It used to be 15% - 20% per year before Covid in Ko Samui for example. And it is still 10%-15% for landed properties. Meanwhile long term rental rates have at least doubled if not tripled in the past few years. Renting long term at desirable beach destinations like Phuket or Koh Samui is not such a smart idea." }, { "id": "t1_okrt7fn", "author": "/u/N4003604", "updated": "2026-05-09T05:07:09+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/okrt7fn/", "content": "I wouldn’t buy anything here as an investment property. And only spend the amount I could afford to lose. Foreigners can’t own land under any circumstances and any legal work arounds are subject to whims of Thai authorities. Especially on the islands title deeds are an issue as well.\n Renting is far, far safer." }, { "id": "t1_oknyqbr", "author": "/u/Aggravating_Ring_714", "updated": "2026-05-08T16:20:48+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/oknyqbr/", "content": "Pretty sure legally the greedy revenue office would now consider credit card payments inside Thailand as a remittance as well, there are differing opinions for this. Thanks to fkn Srettha for the idiotic changes. They just can’t track these payments at the moment (and probably forever lol)." }, { "id": "t1_okpgbe3", "author": "/u/kongkr1t", "updated": "2026-05-08T20:27:49+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/okpgbe3/", "content": "Pretty sure that CC payments are not considered remittances. Thai people who invest overseas are also doing it." }, { "id": "t1_okmzum5", "author": "", "updated": "2026-05-08T13:44:34+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/okmzum5/", "content": "[deleted]" }, { "id": "t1_oknappz", "author": "/u/Diamond_Specialist", "updated": "2026-05-08T14:34:50+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/oknappz/", "content": "Another shitpost." }, { "id": "t1_okpk6jy", "author": "/u/Euphoric_Barracuda_7", "updated": "2026-05-08T20:46:30+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/okpk6jy/", "content": "The diarrhoea never stops" }, { "id": "t1_okmxn8o", "author": "/u/cyb3rlazy", "updated": "2026-05-08T13:33:45+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/okmxn8o/", "content": "r/leanfire that way" }, { "id": "t1_okmycd7", "author": "/u/RadioFieldCorner", "updated": "2026-05-08T13:37:11+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/okmycd7/", "content": "Good choice. With that amount of cash, you can literally live in a beach front mansion in Thailand with a full housekeeping staff, cook and a haram of lady/ladyboys.\n Sure as hell beats some cookie cutter house in the USA" }, { "id": "t1_okn0hol", "author": "/u/Flashy-Leave-1908", "updated": "2026-05-08T13:47:39+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/okn0hol/", "content": "Lol that sounds lonely though. Being in a different place where you maybe don't speak the language or get the jokes about the shows people your age used to watch and thousands of miles from your friends and family..." }, { "id": "t1_okn2m5l", "author": "/u/StargazerOmega", "updated": "2026-05-08T13:57:44+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/okn2m5l/", "content": "But you forget all the lady boys" }, { "id": "t1_okncxdh", "author": "/u/refreshingface", "updated": "2026-05-08T14:44:47+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/okncxdh/", "content": "Dude’s wife is a Thai national.\n Also, with his money, man can hire a Thai tutor and put them in a cage. The Thai tutor will whisper Thai lessons to him while he sleeps. Dude will learn the language in 2 months." }, { "id": "t1_okqyzhl", "author": "/u/N4003604", "updated": "2026-05-09T01:38:12+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/okqyzhl/", "content": "I’m pretty good with languages, Thai as well, so not too worried.\n If i don’t want to get murdered I’ll keep the “Long Hair tutors” away." }, { "id": "t1_okn4oru", "author": "/u/RadioFieldCorner", "updated": "2026-05-08T14:07:22+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/okn4oru/", "content": "There tons, tons, tons of rich expats in Thailand to make friends with. In fact, it is much easier to make expat friends than friends in the USA because you by default share one thing: being an expat." }, { "id": "t1_oko6nel", "author": "/u/Remarkable-Emu-6008", "updated": "2026-05-08T16:56:16+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/oko6nel/", "content": "not expat, immigrant." }, { "id": "t1_okqz88b", "author": "/u/N4003604", "updated": "2026-05-09T01:39:42+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/okqz88b/", "content": "Yes, you’re absolutely right. I’ve lived in many places around the world and found it far easier to make friends in expat communities than back in the US/Europe.\n It’s due to common shared bonds." }, { "id": "t1_okney6d", "author": "/u/Particular_Maize6849", "updated": "2026-05-08T14:53:46+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/okney6d/", "content": "I think you missed the part about the harem of ladyboys." }, { "id": "t1_okn491k", "author": "/u/Okhiez", "updated": "2026-05-08T14:05:20+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/okn491k/", "content": "With that money, he can fly back to the US anytime he gets bored. Nothing lonely about living in a beautiful country with great food and friendly people." }, { "id": "t1_okqzb9o", "author": "/u/N4003604", "updated": "2026-05-09T01:40:14+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/okqzb9o/", "content": "100% correct." }, { "id": "t1_oknk79f", "author": "/u/invester13", "updated": "2026-05-08T15:17:01+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/oknk79f/", "content": "Oh wow... smart move!! 10m in Thailand... it will be tight, but you can manage it." }, { "id": "t1_okmytcf", "author": "/u/Top_Introduction4701", "updated": "2026-05-08T13:39:31+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/okmytcf/", "content": "Sounds very complicated for a 3% withdrawal rate." }, { "id": "t1_okmzphj", "author": "/u/FrontLifeguard1962", "updated": "2026-05-08T13:43:53+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/okmzphj/", "content": "$225k/yr in Thailand is like the 0.0001%" }, { "id": "t1_oknwdx0", "author": "/u/Packing-Tape-Man", "updated": "2026-05-08T16:10:19+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/oknwdx0/", "content": "https://www.reddit.com/r/TheWhiteLotusHBO/comments/1jolx9i/i_calculated_how_much_it_costs_to_recreate_a/" }, { "id": "t1_oks3kba", "author": "/u/Representative-Bee32", "updated": "2026-05-09T06:36:25+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/oks3kba/", "content": "Have you actually lived in Thailand? If you have, I’m surprised you said that." }, { "id": "t1_okmw7vn", "author": "/u/Littleroot2001", "updated": "2026-05-08T13:26:42+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/okmw7vn/", "content": "im 44 with $7.3 and ill be joining you in bangkok next year. thonglor area, basically living in japan and thailand at the same time with thailand prices" }, { "id": "t1_okq2pno", "author": "/u/early_fi", "updated": "2026-05-08T22:24:22+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/okq2pno/", "content": "Thonglor /Ekkamai - have had some long stays there in FIRE. The amount of stuff and quality of life you get in Asia is astounding. I’m at 46/ 9.25m, you don’t even think twice about what you’re spending on." }, { "id": "t1_okn8yxm", "author": "/u/EvictionSpecialist", "updated": "2026-05-08T14:26:57+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/okn8yxm/", "content": "Having $225K to spend in Thailand, and you're asking US about this plan? You trolling hard my boy!!\n Maybe you haven't seen the price of beef sate or massages there?\n If I were you, keep working. You wanna hit that magical number of $10M." }, { "id": "t1_okmve0b", "author": "", "updated": "2026-05-08T13:22:36+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/okmve0b/", "content": "[deleted]" }, { "id": "t1_oknbni4", "author": "/u/shaohtsai", "updated": "2026-05-08T14:39:05+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/oknbni4/", "content": "While that's nothing to scoff at in Thailand, if I learned anything from Crazy Rich Asians is that old money in Asia, let alone royalty, is still on another level." }, { "id": "t1_okmwzax", "author": "/u/DanielDannyc12", "updated": "2026-05-08T13:30:26+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/okmwzax/", "content": "You have a slight chance of maybe being all right" }, { "id": "t1_okn0kpb", "author": "/u/OGMikeGyver", "updated": "2026-05-08T13:48:04+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/okn0kpb/", "content": "It's going to be tight with a quarter mil annual withdrawal. Only noodles and richshaws for this guy." }, { "id": "t1_okmxujy", "author": "", "updated": "2026-05-08T13:34:45+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/okmxujy/", "content": "[deleted]" }, { "id": "t1_okntype", "author": "/u/honkers420", "updated": "2026-05-08T15:59:33+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/okntype/", "content": "Whatever you do, don't commit to a women here until you are absolutely sure. You will be targeted and once they latch on, it's very hard to undo it. Date, don't commit. Set a rule for yourself of having to know someone for at least a year before considering letting her move in. Find one who able to support themselves without you." }, { "id": "t1_oknw092", "author": "/u/N4003604", "updated": "2026-05-08T16:08:39+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/oknw092/", "content": "I’ve been married to a Thai for 20 years! Too late!!" }, { "id": "t1_okod2kd", "author": "/u/LongAnnual8167", "updated": "2026-05-08T17:24:38+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/okod2kd/", "content": "This feels less like retirement and more like running a well-structured personal fund.\n The biggest win here is probably avoiding forced selling while keeping flexibility through multiple market conditions." }, { "id": "t1_okoe9zd", "author": "/u/N4003604", "updated": "2026-05-08T17:29:56+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/okoe9zd/", "content": "You got it." }, { "id": "t1_okmznok", "author": "/u/_YouAreTheWorstBurr_", "updated": "2026-05-08T13:43:38+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/okmznok/", "content": "You might check in with r/ChubbyFIRE/" }, { "id": "t1_ol35v09", "author": "/u/smorkoid", "updated": "2026-05-10T23:50:09+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/ol35v09/", "content": "More like Obese Fire" }, { "id": "t1_oknib3u", "author": "/u/No_Tbp2426", "updated": "2026-05-08T15:08:40+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/oknib3u/", "content": "The typical 4% SWR dictates you'd be able to withdraw 300k / yr easily. Why are you doing all of these extra things and expecting to withdraw less? Are you planning for a 3% withdrawal rate?\n It was my understanding the SWR just requires the funds invested no? So if you were doing extra steps you should generate more income?" }, { "id": "t1_oknngh2", "author": "/u/N4003604", "updated": "2026-05-08T15:31:19+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/oknngh2/", "content": "I want to generally avoid selling equities which generate capital gains and limit, in the early years of FIRE, any potential for sequence of return risk. I have highly appreciated stock so preference is monetize it without selling similar to an endowment or family office." }, { "id": "t1_oknwyje", "author": "/u/play_hard_outside", "updated": "2026-05-08T16:12:52+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/oknwyje/", "content": "The taxable income you incur from your “income sleeve“ it’s just as damaging as any capital gains. Except, your income sleeve barely keeps up with inflation, if at all, after paying the taxes on this income." }, { "id": "t1_oko0y8l", "author": "/u/N4003604", "updated": "2026-05-08T16:30:45+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/oko0y8l/", "content": "That isn’t entirely true. The SPX box loan is a technically complex options contract, that offsets, most but not all of the capital gains and income from the portfolio. Couple that with my filing status and other exemptions it’s highly, highly tax efficient.\n The interest on the loan is less than 4%, a SLOC is around 6% to 8% and margin loans are 11%.\n Do the math: I’ve borrowed at 4%, I’m making 5%++ (with BINC/JEPI/SGOV/VCIT) and then using it as collateral to make 10% to 15% on option call/put. premiums.\n And 100% of the SPX interest offsets capital gains and investment income.\n Trust me. I’m ahead of the game." }, { "id": "t1_oknyl46", "author": "/u/Sea_Principle_7322", "updated": "2026-05-08T16:20:10+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/oknyl46/", "content": "Nice! My friend sold his house and moved to Asia once he had a bit of money! That was this past year 2025 he moved, an from what I hear the locals are loving him! So he’s very happy! Nothing wrong with moving somewhere you can stretch your money! Best of luck and enjoy your new life!" }, { "id": "t1_okn0s9k", "author": "/u/rhinofuntime", "updated": "2026-05-08T13:49:03+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/okn0s9k/", "content": "100% humble brag" }, { "id": "t1_okn11xl", "author": "", "updated": "2026-05-08T13:50:20+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/okn11xl/", "content": "[deleted]" }, { "id": "t1_oknbysw", "author": "/u/fartfacewon", "updated": "2026-05-08T14:40:31+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/oknbysw/", "content": "holy shit you know what you’re doing bro all the best and enjoy your money" }, { "id": "t1_oknm83e", "author": "/u/Nervous_Tourist_8699", "updated": "2026-05-08T15:25:55+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/oknm83e/", "content": "I FIRED and live in Thailand. Year five now. You get all the predictable comments about hookers etc.\n Only comments are, you will get increasing bored doing portfolio management and you are taking concentrated fx risk re USD. But the size of the portfolio means you should be fine. I would still put some into EM though.\n I just want a low maintenance portfolio that I can just check in on every now and then. Eg instead of doing puts on QQQ, I just use JEPQ which gives downside protection and income.\n Well done fella and enjoy" }, { "id": "t1_oknrrn8", "author": "/u/N4003604", "updated": "2026-05-08T15:50:00+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/oknrrn8/", "content": "Yeah, the “Thai” comments are cute. Ha ha.\n I did look at JEPQ, but I want to be able to control the position sizing and rolling, where JEPQ, if there is a pull back, as I understand and might be wrong, would destroy capital as you cannot recover back to the original base as your continually capped by covered call writing.\n I rebalanced my portfolio to eliminate all individual company stock risk as to indirectly your point, didn’t want to worry about the next earnings report, CEO change or whatever. Indexes provide high liquidity and diversification (to the extent they can).\n On FX risk, I’m not too worried about that given my asset base and cost of living in Thailand. I think it is more likely Thailand experiences THB depreciation given its structural economic issues than appreciate." }, { "id": "t1_oknyaww", "author": "/u/aashaant", "updated": "2026-05-08T16:18:54+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/oknyaww/", "content": "Can someone please explain how do the SPX box loans work?" }, { "id": "t1_okobfec", "author": "/u/NotGoodSoftwareMaker", "updated": "2026-05-08T17:17:19+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/okobfec/", "content": "Damn, so many jealous people here\n Gratz bud, enjoy it, youve earned it" }, { "id": "t1_oksxl3z", "author": "/u/ongoldenwaves", "updated": "2026-05-09T11:10:22+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/oksxl3z/", "content": "FR. I don't get the anger at wealth in the fire sub. That's the goal." }, { "id": "t1_okocecx", "author": "", "updated": "2026-05-08T17:21:38+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/okocecx/", "content": "[deleted]" }, { "id": "t1_okoqcmc", "author": "/u/Personal-Movie8882", "updated": "2026-05-08T18:24:23+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/okoqcmc/", "content": "Too little mate, you need to get back to the office whole you still can Thailand is expensive." }, { "id": "t1_oku2vp1", "author": "", "updated": "2026-05-09T15:15:59+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/oku2vp1/", "content": "[deleted]" }, { "id": "t1_okmwrlk", "author": "/u/hadee75", "updated": "2026-05-08T13:29:24+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/okmwrlk/", "content": "Why Thailand?" }, { "id": "t1_okmyr0i", "author": "/u/N4003604", "updated": "2026-05-08T13:39:11+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/okmyr0i/", "content": "Family considerations" }, { "id": "t1_okmzj2j", "author": "/u/SwolePalmer", "updated": "2026-05-08T13:43:01+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/okmzj2j/", "content": "You know the answer" }, { "id": "t1_okmy9gh", "author": "/u/BobbyTables69", "updated": "2026-05-08T13:36:47+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/okmy9gh/", "content": "No one cares" }, { "id": "t1_okmzym9", "author": "/u/sandalsabsentsocks", "updated": "2026-05-08T13:45:07+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/okmzym9/", "content": "Why'd you wait so long, with even half that amount in thailand you'd live very well. Was the plan to always go to thailand?" }, { "id": "t1_okn16h7", "author": "/u/Beautiful-Dig8573", "updated": "2026-05-08T13:50:56+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/okn16h7/", "content": "What are you gonna spend 225k in thailand on daym" }, { "id": "t1_okn1ua1", "author": "/u/ICanSeeNow17", "updated": "2026-05-08T13:54:05+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/okn1ua1/", "content": "As a single 56M what exactly do you plan to spend 225k USD per year on in Thailand?" }, { "id": "t1_oknfkf1", "author": "/u/Particular_Maize6849", "updated": "2026-05-08T14:56:27+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/oknfkf1/", "content": "You know." }, { "id": "t1_okqvmao", "author": "/u/N4003604", "updated": "2026-05-09T01:17:07+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/okqvmao/", "content": "According to most in this thread, apparently hookers and ladyboys. Ha ha." }, { "id": "t1_okn5zj0", "author": "/u/chaosoffspring", "updated": "2026-05-08T14:13:22+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/okn5zj0/", "content": "Why do you need to move to Thailand with $7.5M? You trying to buy your own village there?? All jokes aside congrats! I been to Thailand multiple times and while I do enjoy the affordability, I can't see myself living in a 3rd world country unless I am old, divorced and lonely." }, { "id": "t1_okqt7bk", "author": "/u/N4003604", "updated": "2026-05-09T01:02:10+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/okqt7bk/", "content": "Thailand isn’t 3rd world." }, { "id": "t1_okn7vg7", "author": "/u/A_Meri_Can", "updated": "2026-05-08T14:22:01+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/okn7vg7/", "content": "Very intrigued by your structure. Can you elaborate on your cash secured puts and SPX box loans? This is the first post I’ve seen on this sub that inspired a screenshot for later research. Sounds like you’ve built a good system and committed to firing. Congrats man!" }, { "id": "t1_oknf6wo", "author": "/u/N4003604", "updated": "2026-05-08T14:54:49+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/oknf6wo/", "content": "SPX Box loan is a synthetic loan by buying and selling 4 legged option contracts on the SPX option chain. You pay interest rates that are above treasury rates by 30 to 50 bps depending on maturity. You borrow a notional amount, say $200,000 with a maturity of say 12/2028, and you receive $185,000 today. You repay (or rollover) the notional $200,000 at maturity. So between now and 12/2028 hopefully you invested better than what you owe. To do this you need to be able to buy/sell option contracts and in the above have other collateral of $500,000 or above. The interest rate never changes, the amount owed never changes, it can never be called, and the options never assigned. Your only risks are you collateral and paying back the $200,000 you owe at maturity. The interest you pay, offsets all capital gains since it’s an option contract and not a loan.\n The proceeds received I put into the income sleeve and use that as collateral to sell cash secured puts against the SPY and QQQ. I take the premium received and put that back into the income Sleeve to support compounding and/or drawdowns." }, { "id": "t1_okn8k3g", "author": "/u/Sea-Assignment2600", "updated": "2026-05-08T14:25:07+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/okn8k3g/", "content": "There are going to be thousands of ailing water buffaloes across rural Thailand very happy with your choices. 555" }, { "id": "t1_okndfbo", "author": "/u/N4003604", "updated": "2026-05-08T14:47:00+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/okndfbo/", "content": "Well, they’ll continue to be ailing without me. Ha ha." }, { "id": "t1_okn8lt6", "author": "/u/Cache-Cow", "updated": "2026-05-08T14:25:20+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/okn8lt6/", "content": "How do you play to survive until the social security kicks in?!" }, { "id": "t1_oknfa38", "author": "/u/someguy984", "updated": "2026-05-08T14:55:12+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/oknfa38/", "content": "One night in Bangkok makes a hard man humble." }, { "id": "t1_oknfgni", "author": "/u/Vas_Cody_Gamma", "updated": "2026-05-08T14:56:00+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/oknfgni/", "content": "With that money you could have moved Thailand to you" }, { "id": "t1_oknfjax", "author": "/u/tattoo171", "updated": "2026-05-08T14:56:19+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/oknfjax/", "content": "Really appreciate you posting the specifics of how this is going to work for you, many don’t, ignore the haters on this sub they just Jel.\n Can you explain more specifically how the equity sleeve / income sleeve / box spreads work in coordination?" }, { "id": "t1_oknj18l", "author": "/u/N4003604", "updated": "2026-05-08T15:11:53+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/oknj18l/", "content": "The equity sleeve (SPY, etc…) is your base equity portfolio, growing in value via price and dividend compounding. The SPX Box loans are synthetic loans based on buying and selling specifically dated and sized call and put options. For doing that, you receive as option premium a credit in your brokerage. Example, you borrow $1M due in 12/2028 (or whenever) and you get $930,000 today. You take that $930,000 and invest it into fixed income securities that provide portfolio stability and monthly dividends to live off of or compound. You spend this down over your time horizon without selling any stock (unlike the 4% rule). If the market crashes you have this income sleeve to live off of without selling your equities at a lower price AND incur capital gains." }, { "id": "t1_oknqu36", "author": "/u/hatfieldmichael", "updated": "2026-05-08T15:45:57+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/oknqu36/", "content": "I am jealous! Enjoy the fruit of your labor. And that beautiful environment." }, { "id": "t1_oknr04k", "author": "/u/MountainRoll29", "updated": "2026-05-08T15:46:41+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/oknr04k/", "content": "You can live like a king in Thailand for far less than that. Congratulations!" }, { "id": "t1_oknxljj", "author": "/u/khidf986435", "updated": "2026-05-08T16:15:45+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/oknxljj/", "content": "nice portfolio for a chilled life" }, { "id": "t1_oknzun6", "author": "/u/Top_Profession_1177", "updated": "2026-05-08T16:25:49+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/oknzun6/", "content": "Hell yes. This is how it’s done. Thanks for sharing." }, { "id": "t1_oko3q0k", "author": "/u/Internal-Flatworm-72", "updated": "2026-05-08T16:43:16+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/oko3q0k/", "content": "Too complex. Cut out the options." }, { "id": "t1_oko665u", "author": "/u/BigFourFlameout", "updated": "2026-05-08T16:54:10+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/oko665u/", "content": "Tf you doing in Thailand with a $7.5M portfolio?" }, { "id": "t1_okocviw", "author": "/u/TeacherRecovering", "updated": "2026-05-08T17:23:45+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/okocviw/", "content": "56 year old male in Thailand.\n No mention of a spouse.\n In 2 years he will meet some one.\n In 4 years they will have drained his money to help their family.\n In 5 years he will be alone." }, { "id": "t1_okoemyv", "author": "/u/N4003604", "updated": "2026-05-08T17:31:33+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/okoemyv/", "content": "See below. I’ve been married to a Thai for 20 years. I think her family has more money than me!!" }, { "id": "t1_okogatr", "author": "/u/Euphoric_Barracuda_7", "updated": "2026-05-08T17:38:59+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/okogatr/", "content": "Zero chance of retirement until 100 million." }, { "id": "t1_okogizs", "author": "/u/N4003604", "updated": "2026-05-08T17:39:59+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/okogizs/", "content": "Thanks. I’ll do my best." }, { "id": "t1_okoln0a", "author": "", "updated": "2026-05-08T18:02:48+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/okoln0a/", "content": "[deleted]" }, { "id": "t1_okom6se", "author": "/u/N4003604", "updated": "2026-05-08T18:05:19+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/okom6se/", "content": "I’m married, so I’ll pass on the primordial ooze of curable and non-curable STD’s. Ha ha." }, { "id": "t1_okouv90", "author": "/u/AllFiredUp3000", "updated": "2026-05-08T18:45:31+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/okouv90/", "content": "I’m still under $3M net worth but I also sell CSPs on QQQ and SPY :)" }, { "id": "t1_okoyns0", "author": "/u/wheninrome5000", "updated": "2026-05-08T19:03:18+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/okoyns0/", "content": "Just because the dude is moving to Thailand (with his spouse) doesn't automatically mean he is that guy from White Lotus" }, { "id": "t1_okp44nz", "author": "/u/Dharmabum2393", "updated": "2026-05-08T19:29:37+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/okp44nz/", "content": "We are 42 but the wife and I are thinking about moving to south east Asia. We will need to work until our mid 50s to retire with 12+ in SF but could quit just about anytime we want now and make it work overt there with what we already have." }, { "id": "t1_okqmqc2", "author": "/u/N4003604", "updated": "2026-05-09T00:22:13+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/okqmqc2/", "content": "Yep. Just need to do the math." }, { "id": "t1_okp7tt1", "author": "/u/icehole505", "updated": "2026-05-08T19:47:28+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/okp7tt1/", "content": "Not sure if this is a troll.. but you’ve made this way too complicated lol. Throw a mil in money market, a mil in some foreign denominated broad market etf, and put the rest in VTI or SPY.\n Unless you’ve made a career in finance, I highly doubt you’re appropriately informed about the risk in your options plays. And the spx box loan is just a way to take on leverage that you don’t remotely need.\n You can safely withdraw the same $225k per year with a much less complicated/risky portfolio" }, { "id": "t1_okqlyp3", "author": "/u/N4003604", "updated": "2026-05-09T00:17:31+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/okqlyp3/", "content": "Yes. I’ve made a career in finance, so I fully understand it all. To do what you’re talking about drives hundreds of thousands, at least $500,000 of capital gains and other taxes, to rebalance and sell down.\n But thanks for the advice." }, { "id": "t1_okpjkdy", "author": "/u/ChamberofSarcasm", "updated": "2026-05-08T20:43:32+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/okpjkdy/", "content": "I only understood about 30% of that but I'd say 1. Wow good job. 2. $225k in Thailand probably means a king's life. 3. Loans on a portfolio is how rich people avoid paying taxes, right? Prevent the sell-down and as long as you're appreciating at a higher rate than the loan you're golden? 4. I need to google "sleeves"." }, { "id": "t1_okqd8lc", "author": "/u/retchthegrate", "updated": "2026-05-08T23:26:02+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/okqd8lc/", "content": "Thailand is a fun country, my uncle retired there and loved it, but he had very good long term friends who are Thai (and are now very dear family friends of our family too) and had spent years going there for work. If you don't have local friends be careful with local entanglements. At that income level you can live a life basically with having all your western food and activities, plus travel out of Thailand, so it is pretty reasonable to explore." }, { "id": "t1_oktm78m", "author": "/u/Popular_Math_8503", "updated": "2026-05-09T13:47:55+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/oktm78m/", "content": "I love how everyone shits on anyone who has done well and has over 1 m in this sub. Ridiculous" }, { "id": "t1_oktmg1l", "author": "/u/N4003604", "updated": "2026-05-09T13:49:16+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/oktmg1l/", "content": "Weird. Financial Independence Retire Early is the definition and yet they seem to hate the very existence of folks who can to some degree or another." }, { "id": "t1_oktonki", "author": "/u/Fun-Room-6501", "updated": "2026-05-09T14:01:28+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/oktonki/", "content": "You’re a complete inspiration- I just have to say that!" }, { "id": "t1_oktp3k6", "author": "", "updated": "2026-05-09T14:03:52+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/oktp3k6/", "content": "[deleted]" }, { "id": "t1_oktsh95", "author": "/u/N4003604", "updated": "2026-05-09T14:21:53+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/oktsh95/", "content": "Why waste the time and energy?" }, { "id": "t1_oktwadj", "author": "/u/richizy", "updated": "2026-05-09T14:41:48+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/oktwadj/", "content": "Thanks for sharing your strategy, I've learned quite a bit.\n I'd love to know how your mini hedge fund will deal with the following situation in case of a correlated failure:\n\n- Suppose the S&P 500/QQQ drops 20% in a month.\n- Your puts are hit and forced to buy $700k of stock while the market is still falling.\n- To pay for that $700k, you sell your "income sleeve" which is likely also down because of the economic crisis.\n- Your box loan remains at $1M but your collateral has shrunk. You are highly leveraged at the worst possible time. I'm also curious how you got 3.9%? I'm not super familiar with box loans, but AFAIU, the effective rate is usually a small spread above SOFR. 3.9% just seems too low? And SOFR can become expensive at probably the worst possible moment." }, { "id": "t1_oktyrrs", "author": "/u/N4003604", "updated": "2026-05-09T14:54:51+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/oktyrrs/", "content": "Answers:\n\n- No impact at all. It would have to drop 60% to 70%\n\n- The puts are structured as Bull Put Spreads at $100 and $200 strike width between long and short. Max exposure per contract is $10k to $20K per contract, $100k in total. No forced assignment, unless i want to take assignment. If I do, I can sell the long puts for a massive profit to help offset.\n The income sleeve would be down say 5%, if the other part is down 25% or more. They’re not correlated and the largest portion of it is SGOV which does not go down at all. But if i did take assignment I would sell out of the income sleeve.\n\n- Right now debt to equity is at 16%, not 60% or 70%. It’s not really an issue. These contracts are non callable or assignable. They’re are multiple laddered contracts with no cliff event maturity. They’re all easily manageable. In a worse case I could pay down one of the tranches (probably at a profit no less) if there was another Great Depression. In that event the world is screwed.\n\n- The rate is blended based on tranche maturity. You can track SPX rates here: https://www.boxtrades.com/SPX/15JAN27\n All good comments, thanks!!" }, { "id": "t1_oku44gw", "author": "/u/sweetysinghania", "updated": "2026-05-09T15:22:15+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/oku44gw/", "content": "Tell us about the box loan? What did you sell what brokerage and how did they allow you?, did you tell them this is a box loan? Can you take the money out was it easy" }, { "id": "t1_okmxbps", "author": "/u/FineLanguage8087", "updated": "2026-05-08T13:32:09+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/okmxbps/", "content": "Lolz" }, { "id": "t1_okn19oe", "author": "/u/FineLanguage8087", "updated": "2026-05-08T13:51:21+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/okn19oe/", "content": "I’m not even laughing at the dollar amount - good on you there. More the humblebrag via a nonspecific question - what do you want to know that you don’t already other than wanting to hear congrats?" }, { "id": "t1_okmy7b6", "author": "/u/srqfla", "updated": "2026-05-08T13:36:30+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/okmy7b6/", "content": "Good for you. You'll be hard-pressed to spend that amount of money per year in Thailand, but you'll have fun figuring out how to do so" }, { "id": "t1_okn0e8y", "author": "/u/Wooden-Broccoli-913", "updated": "2026-05-08T13:47:12+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/okn0e8y/", "content": "Your loan balance will just keep getting larger though? Do you expect your portfolio to grow faster than that?" }, { "id": "t1_okqwxe9", "author": "/u/N4003604", "updated": "2026-05-09T01:25:25+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/okqwxe9/", "content": "It depends. I haven’t decided what I want to do. With SPX Box loans the loan balance is fixed, it never grows. You owe what you owe.\n The issue comes at expiration: 1) do I let it expire and sell my equities to retire the debt completely, 2) roll over the notional, keeping the balance constant always? This requires me to fund only the difference between present value received in a new roll and the notional owed. E.g. I borrowed $100,000, but only received $85,000. I would need $15,000 from stock sales to roll over the $100k to the next expiration, 3) size up: borrow $120k, to pay off the $100k owed, thus increasing debt.\n Yes, I would expect the portfolio to continue grow faster than the debt. Once my tax situation changes over the next year or so, moving to 100% passive income I may look to retire the debts as they come due.\n I’ve not decided yet." }, { "id": "t1_okn0t7n", "author": "/u/CApoontappa", "updated": "2026-05-08T13:49:11+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/okn0t7n/", "content": "Doesn't the sgov monthly dividen cover most life expenses in Thailand?" }, { "id": "t1_okqvxed", "author": "/u/N4003604", "updated": "2026-05-09T01:19:05+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/okqvxed/", "content": "No. It won’t keep up with inflation. It doesn’t grow at all. It provides stability for the portfolio to avoid any sequence of return risk." }, { "id": "t1_okn13re", "author": "/u/Specialist-Ad7800", "updated": "2026-05-08T13:50:34+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/okn13re/", "content": "Looks good, enjoy. The box loans seem like unnecessary complexity but free money is free money." }, { "id": "t1_okqvqbh", "author": "/u/N4003604", "updated": "2026-05-09T01:17:49+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/okqvqbh/", "content": "Yes, but the complexity at this stage is worth it." }, { "id": "t1_okn1g9s", "author": "/u/yadiyoda", "updated": "2026-05-08T13:52:14+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/okn1g9s/", "content": "Congrats, I would imagine 225k in Thailand able to go much further than it does in US." }, { "id": "t1_okn2cwn", "author": "/u/abraham_does_things", "updated": "2026-05-08T13:56:32+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/okn2cwn/", "content": "How does the math work on box loans vs capital gains? 5% cost of money vs 15% capital gains?" }, { "id": "t1_okqvgy6", "author": "/u/N4003604", "updated": "2026-05-09T01:16:11+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/okqvgy6/", "content": "SPX box loans are complex option contracts not a typical loan like an SLOC or HELOC. As such the “interest” you pay which is the difference between the amount received (which is the present value of the notional borrowed) is considered a capital loss, not interest expense. Example, I borrow $100,000 with a 12/2027 expiration, but today I only received $85,000. The $15,000 I payback is considered a capital loss and offsets 1:1 against any capital gains I have." }, { "id": "t1_okn3lh4", "author": "/u/MoodOk4287", "updated": "2026-05-08T14:02:17+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/okn3lh4/", "content": "7.5m ? I plan to retire at 3m" }, { "id": "t1_okn41ik", "author": "/u/Animag771", "updated": "2026-05-08T14:04:21+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/okn41ik/", "content": "$3M? I plan to retire at $550k." }, { "id": "t1_okn3m9f", "author": "/u/juvy5000", "updated": "2026-05-08T14:02:23+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/okn3m9f/", "content": "you couldn’t pay me enough to move to thailand. i’m sure you’ll enjoy it though" }, { "id": "t1_okn45r0", "author": "/u/Chokedee-bp", "updated": "2026-05-08T14:04:55+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/okn45r0/", "content": "Wow love all those fancy options trades you got.\n How are those options fees better than just keeping 1-2 years of income in a US treasury 13 week t bill at 4% ?" }, { "id": "t1_okn7erc", "author": "/u/IceBoxPete", "updated": "2026-05-08T14:19:55+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/okn7erc/", "content": "Nice man. I am 35 and just hit 1 mil. I hope to retire to Thailand and find a wife once I turn 45. I should have about 3 mil by then. I am just too ugly looking for women to like me here in the US" }, { "id": "t1_okn8l8t", "author": "/u/Choice-Newspaper3603", "updated": "2026-05-08T14:25:16+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/okn8l8t/", "content": "Yeah, you just talked to me in a different language" }, { "id": "t1_okn8r5c", "author": "/u/AmexNomad", "updated": "2026-05-08T14:26:00+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/okn8r5c/", "content": "👍🥂👊" }, { "id": "t1_oknccet", "author": "/u/science0228", "updated": "2026-05-08T14:42:11+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/oknccet/", "content": "I'm planning to move to China when I retire, though my number is more like 2.5 million. 7.5m in Thailand is basically fuck you money." }, { "id": "t1_okndfok", "author": "/u/bryanchicken", "updated": "2026-05-08T14:47:03+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/okndfok/", "content": "$7.5m in Thailand is King-fire surely?" }, { "id": "t1_okndzq0", "author": "/u/KrampusKillz503", "updated": "2026-05-08T14:49:31+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/okndzq0/", "content": "Can you mentor me?" }, { "id": "t1_okne0zp", "author": "/u/Backoutside1", "updated": "2026-05-08T14:49:41+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/okne0zp/", "content": "Congrats, I’ll be there when I turn 50 as well lol" }, { "id": "t1_oknggbl", "author": "/u/d70", "updated": "2026-05-08T15:00:25+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/oknggbl/", "content": "$7.5M is like a 3x buying power in Thailand. How are you planning to withdraw money to use day to day? Does the Thai gov tax money brought and foreign earned income now?" }, { "id": "t1_oknolk3", "author": "/u/N4003604", "updated": "2026-05-08T15:36:16+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/oknolk3/", "content": "Well, they are potentially starting to do that depending on how long you live in Thailand. But since I am legally bringing loan proceeds and not dividends and not capital gains there is no tax.\n I will have fixed costs of about $120,000 per annum (rent, cars, health insurance, food, utilities, etc….)…the rest is variable." }, { "id": "t1_oknh328", "author": "/u/msurbrow", "updated": "2026-05-08T15:03:13+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/oknh328/", "content": "I recognize all of those words, but just not in that particular order lol" }, { "id": "t1_oknizzp", "author": "/u/Hold_To_Expiration", "updated": "2026-05-08T15:11:43+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/oknizzp/", "content": "Great port, send you got it under control. I just left Thailand after 4.5 years... still have .5 years on my "Elite" visa.\n Just heads up if you haven't deep dived yet. It's best to live light there, not to put down roots. Unless you marry a Thai you'll be forever a tourist with no real world legal rights to your possessions.\n They expect you to file and pay income tax after 180 days now, but give no path to residency. I couldn't stomach that future risk or handle dealing with even more Thai bureaucracy.\n Goodluck" }, { "id": "t1_oknll9c", "author": "/u/N4003604", "updated": "2026-05-08T15:23:07+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/oknll9c/", "content": "My spouse is Thai, married for 20 years, and I don’t have those visa issues. But you’re right, Thailand has stability issues and we won’t and would not put too much of our assets here, only what can afford to be lost. Getting money out or doing whatever isn’t easy. We will keep our financial and other assets in the US." }, { "id": "t1_oknjdjm", "author": "/u/Pinkshadie", "updated": "2026-05-08T15:13:23+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/oknjdjm/", "content": "Is there a reason that you're in Thailand? I feel like people only go to LCOL when they have much less. Once you get to the bracket that you have they tend to base themselves in places with better healthcare, better weather, etc." }, { "id": "t1_oknkmsm", "author": "/u/N4003604", "updated": "2026-05-08T15:18:54+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/oknkmsm/", "content": "Where is the better healthcare? You get world class (but not cutting edge), easily accessible, personalized healthcare here compared to the US or Europe. I’ve lived throughout the US and Europe, and getting healthcare is hassle and in the US unless you have good insurance massively expensive at all levels. Thailand has warm weather all year, no hurricanes or tornadoes. You can get quality service to make your life comfortable at all levels. And compared to the US and Europe it’s very, very safe. It’s not perfect but it’s not a compromise for me to come here." }, { "id": "t1_oknp1m1", "author": "/u/Pinkshadie", "updated": "2026-05-08T15:38:13+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/oknp1m1/", "content": "I guess it just depends on what your priorities are. For me, health outcomes for specific cancers and managing multiple chronic conditions put me off Thailand (Breast cancer survival rate is 72% versus 99% in the US for example). And at your income level, you can afford the best healthcare that the US has to offer. But again, that's just what I personally prioritize (and I pay a lot for monthly, but it's worth it to me and I'm CHUBBYfire'd). Was just genuinely curious why you chose there, since the trend seems to be people who FAT Fire tend to end up in Europe or the US. But not knocking Thailand per say -- that humidity is a deal breaker for me but I know some people love it lol" }, { "id": "t1_oknvimi", "author": "/u/N4003604", "updated": "2026-05-08T16:06:27+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/oknvimi/", "content": "Fair point. But, I dare say, if you’re getting healthcare at Bumrungrad, Samitivej, MedPark, BNH hospitals the health outcomes, for cancer and other chronic conditions, will be similar or close to similar. And you will get it in a personalized, comforting, and attentive environment. That covers probably 90% of people. You’re not getting that in the US and Europe.\n What you’re not getting is “cutting edge” care that you may get access to in the US or Europe (I.e clinical trials, technology. etc) for complex diseases or conditions. I have friends who have experienced very complex, rare neurological diseases both here in Thailand and the US, and to your point, the care / treatment for that is better in the US. Thailand doesn’t have the repository of talent or infrastructure to support that type of condition." }, { "id": "t1_oknk16b", "author": "/u/darkeningsoul", "updated": "2026-05-08T15:16:17+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/oknk16b/", "content": "I think, you will be ok. But you should probably donate some of your savings to me so that I can be ok too??\n You have a solid plan, I would consider what you'll do with any leftovers after your time ends....you will probably have leftover money lol. Enjoy Thailand" }, { "id": "t1_okntdiu", "author": "/u/N4003604", "updated": "2026-05-08T15:56:57+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/okntdiu/", "content": "Hopefully, no money leftover, but that is unpredictable. If anything is left over I will donate it to an animal welfare charity." }, { "id": "t1_oknmor3", "author": "/u/Cool-Design-7414", "updated": "2026-05-08T15:27:55+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/oknmor3/", "content": "At this amount of money, couldn’t you just live off of simple interest?" }, { "id": "t1_oknn2gg", "author": "/u/SpeciousSophist", "updated": "2026-05-08T15:29:36+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/oknn2gg/", "content": "How do you have so much money but such a low Social Security benefit? Have you just been killing it in the market?" }, { "id": "t1_oknq46a", "author": "/u/N4003604", "updated": "2026-05-08T15:42:52+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/oknq46a/", "content": "Very good question. I earned a lot of salary while living overseas (when I didn’t pay into social security) and stock market gains." }, { "id": "t1_oknpjvv", "author": "/u/Existing_Ideal9004", "updated": "2026-05-08T15:40:25+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/oknpjvv/", "content": "How did you accumulate 7.5M but only have $1400 in SS?" }, { "id": "t1_okny8z7", "author": "/u/Happy_Cancel1315", "updated": "2026-05-08T16:18:39+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/okny8z7/", "content": "I'm new here - is there a glossary of terms and abbreviations? I have no idea what was said in that first paragraph..." }, { "id": "t1_oknz7bo", "author": "/u/Aggravating_Ring_714", "updated": "2026-05-08T16:22:56+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/oknz7bo/", "content": "I forgot how American this subreddit is. A lot of people here have never lived outside the states it seems, wildly ignorant comments/opinions here lol" }, { "id": "t1_oko1s4k", "author": "/u/N4003604", "updated": "2026-05-08T16:34:32+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/oko1s4k/", "content": "Yep. They have no idea what reality is like outside of their town/city in the USA. There are some real good qualities about the US, but there is a whole other world, too." }, { "id": "t1_oks3j4c", "author": "/u/len2680", "updated": "2026-05-09T06:36:07+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/oks3j4c/", "content": "Lol right most Americans think the world is so scarry outside the US." }, { "id": "t1_oko2fft", "author": "/u/HourAppointment4919", "updated": "2026-05-08T16:37:27+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/oko2fft/", "content": "What do you do all day?" }, { "id": "t1_oko4yty", "author": "/u/Enough-Breakfast6163", "updated": "2026-05-08T16:48:50+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/oko4yty/", "content": "Honestly sounds like you built this around minimizing stress more than maximizing returns and with $7.5m plus Thailand COL you’re probably safer than 99% of FIRE people posting here" }, { "id": "t1_okohijf", "author": "/u/N4003604", "updated": "2026-05-08T17:44:22+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/okohijf/", "content": "Yes, that’s a good point and fairly accurate. Stress free lifestyle with the ability to buy convenience and help when needed. That isn’t possible in the US. They’ll be expensive trips back to the US for family visits and the like but hopefully things work out." }, { "id": "t1_oko7tbv", "author": "/u/Secret_Duty_8612", "updated": "2026-05-08T17:01:22+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/oko7tbv/", "content": "Sounds great except I’d hate to leave all my friends behind." }, { "id": "t1_oko8t2y", "author": "/u/N4003604", "updated": "2026-05-08T17:05:43+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/oko8t2y/", "content": "I have friends everywhere. And home is where you make it." }, { "id": "t1_okojdwh", "author": "/u/Dry-Promise4853", "updated": "2026-05-08T17:52:46+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/okojdwh/", "content": "Welcome to Thailand, with that money you will live completely comfortable. if you need to build a house in pattaya area let me know. I do contractor business." }, { "id": "t1_okojxuf", "author": "/u/patientpadawan", "updated": "2026-05-08T17:55:13+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/okojxuf/", "content": "Bruh Thailand is so epic. Except for smoke season. What part are you moving to? You basically are going to be a king for the rest of your life. Congrats." }, { "id": "t1_okok3f4", "author": "/u/N4003604", "updated": "2026-05-08T17:55:54+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/okok3f4/", "content": "Thanks. Hopefully it plays out that way." }, { "id": "t1_okokkbm", "author": "/u/Necessary-Lynx1585", "updated": "2026-05-08T17:57:58+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/okokkbm/", "content": "Youre going to get ripped off by thai girls" }, { "id": "t1_okorecp", "author": "/u/deeznuts69", "updated": "2026-05-08T18:29:16+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/okorecp/", "content": "I don’t think you can spend $225k a year in Thailand if you tried." }, { "id": "t1_okoz8a5", "author": "/u/60secs", "updated": "2026-05-08T19:05:59+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/okoz8a5/", "content": "I appreciate the broad range between $225k to $225k per year." }, { "id": "t1_okqmzgt", "author": "/u/N4003604", "updated": "2026-05-09T00:23:43+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/okqmzgt/", "content": "Yeah that was a typo, it should be $250k." }, { "id": "t1_okp3xuf", "author": "", "updated": "2026-05-08T19:28:42+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/okp3xuf/", "content": "[deleted]" }, { "id": "t1_okqmwm2", "author": "/u/N4003604", "updated": "2026-05-09T00:23:15+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/okqmwm2/", "content": "Steady rotation of mistresses who need new iPhones and BMWs every year. Ha ha. Happily married for 20 years." }, { "id": "t1_okptk97", "author": "/u/GlobalCitizen17", "updated": "2026-05-08T21:34:06+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/okptk97/", "content": "Had a similar salary on an expat package in Bangkok. Honestly, you can easily find ways to spend it there with standard living expenses.\n Yes Bangkok can be cheap but can also be more expensive than many western major cities. My rent was $8k/mo in Langsuan but you can also find $400/mo in Onnut. Options for every budget is there and really comes down to lifestyle." }, { "id": "t1_okqijxz", "author": "/u/N4003604", "updated": "2026-05-08T23:57:05+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/okqijxz/", "content": "Yes. You’re absolutely right. A lot of the people making comments about this don’t know or get all there info from TikTok reels of people living in “Luxury” apartments for $1,000/months. They have no idea what they’re talking about." }, { "id": "t1_okpw157", "author": "/u/Five0clocksomewhere", "updated": "2026-05-08T21:47:04+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/okpw157/", "content": "Did you save up that much money because you wanted to go overseas and become the king? Lmfao!" }, { "id": "t1_okpw4mk", "author": "", "updated": "2026-05-08T21:47:35+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/okpw4mk/", "content": "[deleted]" }, { "id": "t1_okq1c96", "author": "/u/Disastrous_Term_4478", "updated": "2026-05-08T22:16:22+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/okq1c96/", "content": "To hell with feedback on your investments…tell us how you spend $250k a year in Thailand." }, { "id": "t1_okq65w4", "author": "/u/Messup7654", "updated": "2026-05-08T22:44:29+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/okq65w4/", "content": "Another chubby and fat fire national has just defected." }, { "id": "t1_okqwsea", "author": "/u/Initial_Enthusiasm36", "updated": "2026-05-09T01:24:31+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/okqwsea/", "content": "Great job. But just be careful that money can go very very fast here." }, { "id": "t1_okrgp2q", "author": "/u/Beautiful_Review_336", "updated": "2026-05-09T03:33:36+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/okrgp2q/", "content": "Feel like living in Thailand you could live on far less than 200k+ per year, while enjoying yourself, and letting the money keep grow. But you should definitely enjoy yourself!" }, { "id": "t1_okrgwju", "author": "/u/N4003604", "updated": "2026-05-09T03:35:05+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/okrgwju/", "content": "Idea is to live comfortably without any hassles or stress." }, { "id": "t1_okriojd", "author": "/u/Kavi2571", "updated": "2026-05-09T03:47:52+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/okriojd/", "content": "Hey! Just saw your breakdown. That $7.5m portfolio with the box loan ladder is a very clean way to fund a life in Thailand without triggering unnecessary taxes back home. Solid move.\n I’ve been based in Thailand for a while now. Just a heads-up: if you ever decide to move from renting to buying, be extra careful with the local market. It’s a bit of a "Wild West" here compared to the US, especially regarding due diligence and how Freehold titles actually work.\n If you ever need a second opinion or a quick tip on the real estate landscape here so you don’t get burned by the hype, feel free to give me a shout. Otherwise, enjoy the retirement — you’ve definitely set it up the right way." }, { "id": "t1_okrs9z3", "author": "/u/toincoss", "updated": "2026-05-09T04:59:33+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/okrs9z3/", "content": "Can you go into more detail of why you chose a boxx spread over straight cash? How many years of expenses are you funding with the boxx? For the offset dividend portfolio, are they individual stocks or etf? Do you forsee the dividend portfolio being permanent or just until you payoff the boxx spread?\n Congrats to you on thinking outside the boxx and...GFY" }, { "id": "t1_oksfk37", "author": "/u/Little-Hermano", "updated": "2026-05-09T08:26:26+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/oksfk37/", "content": "Congratulations" }, { "id": "t1_okt13qh", "author": "", "updated": "2026-05-09T11:36:50+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/okt13qh/", "content": "[deleted]" }, { "id": "t1_oktnerk", "author": "/u/Apprehensive_Fix7328", "updated": "2026-05-09T13:54:36+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/oktnerk/", "content": "hello, here some feedback :\n\n- too much tech concentrations in your VTI, SPY, and QQQ all stack exposure into the same mega-cap US winners.\n\n- swap cash secured put for call overwritting instead like in your jepi (spyi is good to add too) because cash-secured put on a drawdown time will also squeeze liquidity.\n\n- Cash-secured puts add left-tail liquidity pressure: The $700k put program looks manageable in calm markets, but if QQQ/SPY fall sharply, assignment happens when the equity sleeve is already down. Using the income sleeve as collateral means the “safe” sleeve may be consumed exactly when liquidity is most valuable.\n- box spread - i would be careful of the rolling cost and make sure i understand it in stress scenario.\n\n- missing some gold/metals overall.\n\n- 225k feel light you can draw more" }, { "id": "t1_okts9xj", "author": "/u/N4003604", "updated": "2026-05-09T14:20:49+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/okts9xj/", "content": "Thanks, all solid points, my feedback:\n\n- Yes, there is overlap, less so with VTI, but that is a function of indexes and the stratification of those big companies. That said, the issue is to eliminate direct corporate risk, which I’ve done. No one company sinks me.\n\n- I do some covered calls, but ultimately I don’t want to be too capped on the upside to avoid limiting growth and capital gains.\n\n- I sell the cash secured puts as Bull Put Spreads that are $100 to $200 strike price wide. This limits max loss per contract at $10K to $20K. So there is no tail end or undefined risk. It gives me the optionalality to close for a loss, take assignment (and do an option wheel) and/or sell the long put for a profit. Max exposure is less than $100k. But I choose to sell them as is they were fully assigned. I mentioned this elsewhere in responses.\n\n- Box cost. I fully understand them and have stress tested them. No concerns.\n\n- Gold / silver or whatever I have no interest in.\n\n- $225k. You’re probably right and I may up as I move forward.\n Thanks again, all solid, sound feedback." }, { "id": "t1_oktuj8a", "author": "/u/Derivative_Joker", "updated": "2026-05-09T14:32:36+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/oktuj8a/", "content": "I can’t imagine the high quality of life you’ll be able to afford on $225k annually. What’s the housing plan?" }, { "id": "t1_oktwoya", "author": "/u/N4003604", "updated": "2026-05-09T14:43:58+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/oktwoya/", "content": "Rent a good sized apartment in a decent area in Bangkok for the first year and establish a cadence of daily life. Then see where that takes us." }, { "id": "t1_oku5uiu", "author": "/u/Freewheeler631", "updated": "2026-05-09T15:30:54+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/oku5uiu/", "content": "Solid plan…for calm markets. I’d add one year’s expenses in dry powder for downside sequencing, and you’re fire-proof. Box loans are clever.​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​" }, { "id": "t1_okyfc0x", "author": "/u/jawohlmeinherr", "updated": "2026-05-10T07:06:34+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/okyfc0x/", "content": "Congratz, you are also quite savvy about tax efficiency in retirement. Enjoy your entirement!" }, { "id": "t1_ol2cq3l", "author": "/u/Queasy_Department555", "updated": "2026-05-10T21:04:11+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/ol2cq3l/", "content": "Congrats!" }, { "id": "t1_olbq6w2", "author": "/u/ContestAutomatic9940", "updated": "2026-05-12T06:47:20+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/olbq6w2/", "content": "You know you going to fall in love to a young Thai girl and she will take most of money. Haha the life." }, { "id": "t1_olfnwpn", "author": "/u/Complex_Spirit5297", "updated": "2026-05-12T19:54:55+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/olfnwpn/", "content": "Well…seems like you got your shit figured out, congrats" }, { "id": "t1_oom6cep", "author": "/u/Mama_Peaches", "updated": "2026-05-29T18:06:17+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/oom6cep/", "content": "I think you’d do just fine most anywhere in the world with those numbers. But Thailand…. You’ll be living like royalty. Congrats though! Thailand is definitely top 5 in my books." }, { "id": "t1_okmx7wd", "author": "/u/Individual_Section_6", "updated": "2026-05-08T13:31:37+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/okmx7wd/", "content": "I was actually considering doing the same. Let me know how it works out." }, { "id": "t1_okmywpg", "author": "/u/Fed_worker", "updated": "2026-05-08T13:39:58+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/okmywpg/", "content": "Not enough you need at least 10m. Go back to work.\n Jk.\n Living my dream man. Enjoy the rest of your life. Goal is to live happily until 100 years old. Key is to not look at your portfolio not much just enjoy you life worry-free.\n Don’t use prostitutes there you might end up in heaven" }, { "id": "t1_okn0d8m", "author": "/u/N4003604", "updated": "2026-05-08T13:47:04+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/okn0d8m/", "content": "With no kids or heirs, it’s Die With Zero." }, { "id": "t1_okn1t2y", "author": "/u/Jneebs", "updated": "2026-05-08T13:53:55+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/okn1t2y/", "content": "Ever consider setting aside a bit to create something that outlives you?" }, { "id": "t1_okn3dxl", "author": "/u/Fed_worker", "updated": "2026-05-08T14:01:19+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/okn3dxl/", "content": "AI robot with his brain?" }, { "id": "t1_okqyafb", "author": "/u/N4003604", "updated": "2026-05-09T01:33:55+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/okqyafb/", "content": "Nope, but given how unpredictable life is, I would donate to animal welfare charity of some type. Also my wife is involved too." }, { "id": "t1_okmz1iq", "author": "/u/teslastats", "updated": "2026-05-08T13:40:37+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/okmz1iq/", "content": "How did you get that box loan" }, { "id": "t1_okn2i9t", "author": "/u/N4003604", "updated": "2026-05-08T13:57:14+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/okn2i9t/", "content": "You don’t get it or apply. You need to have options capabilities in your US brokerage account and the collateral to back it up. So, for example, you have $1m in equities, and you want $200k. You can then create the 4 leg SPX option contract, with the maturity you want. Then you enter in the trade, at the price and maturity you. You get say $185,000 today, and pay back $200,000 in 12/2028, just for example. You then take the $187,000 and do what you want. I put it all back in so that I get dividends and don’t touch my equities." }, { "id": "t1_okmzwq2", "author": "/u/jeffynihao", "updated": "2026-05-08T13:44:52+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/okmzwq2/", "content": "Just want to point out that SPX is market cap weighted so you're still "exposed" heavily to big tech since they're basically most of the index. Not necessarily saying it's a bad investment but just thought you should properly risk it.\n All that being said, cash secured puts is a good income generator and that amount is definitely enough to retire on" }, { "id": "t1_okn0593", "author": "/u/Daynebutter", "updated": "2026-05-08T13:46:00+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/okn0593/", "content": "Congrats on the financial security. Have you considered end of life care? I know it's incredibly expensive in the US, but I'm curious how affordable and nice it is in other countries.\n Does Thailand have highly rated and trustworthy places like that or is one better off going back to the US for it? You got a couple decades before you have to worry about it regardless.\n Also, what's the healthcare situation in Thailand like? Do you just pay cash prices or can foreigners pay into a public option?" }, { "id": "t1_okn5ryv", "author": "/u/PHL1365", "updated": "2026-05-08T14:12:24+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/okn5ryv/", "content": "OP could probably hire a private doctor and 24/7 in-home nursing coverage with that kind of money." }, { "id": "t1_okqx3mi", "author": "/u/N4003604", "updated": "2026-05-09T01:26:31+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/okqx3mi/", "content": "Yes, I could at a fraction of the cost of the US with far better care." }, { "id": "t1_okn1sp7", "author": "/u/chillaindaheat69", "updated": "2026-05-08T13:53:52+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/okn1sp7/", "content": "Man your golden, congrats! Have all the pad kra paos in the world" }, { "id": "t1_okn46dp", "author": "/u/Acrobatic-Damage-651", "updated": "2026-05-08T14:04:59+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/okn46dp/", "content": "What is life like in Thailand on $225,000 a year?" }, { "id": "t1_okn4c87", "author": "/u/RightYouAreKen1", "updated": "2026-05-08T14:05:44+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/okn4c87/", "content": "It's tough out there man. Major sacrifices..." }, { "id": "t1_okn4nwp", "author": "/u/TiltedMagnolia", "updated": "2026-05-08T14:07:15+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/okn4nwp/", "content": "So what do you do in Thailand? What’s your day to day like? Hobbies? Family?" }, { "id": "t1_okn6309", "author": "/u/N4003604", "updated": "2026-05-08T14:13:48+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/okn6309/", "content": "I will need to get that sorted once things settle down." }, { "id": "t1_oknisfr", "author": "/u/TiltedMagnolia", "updated": "2026-05-08T15:10:48+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/oknisfr/", "content": "You have no plans or thoughts?\n You still get social security if you move to a new country? I never considered that thought" }, { "id": "t1_okn4qyc", "author": "/u/PHL1365", "updated": "2026-05-08T14:07:39+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/okn4qyc/", "content": "Get the LTR-WGC visa right away. No tax hassles. The 500k investment required will be trivial for you." }, { "id": "t1_okn5ky2", "author": "/u/Separate_Variety3457", "updated": "2026-05-08T14:11:30+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/okn5ky2/", "content": "half your age, but only $1M net worth. sigh. was thinking about FIRING in Thailand for years but the sluggish property market somewhere else kept me from actually moving, and then the Thai government began to tax any incoming items below 1500 thb in 2026, draining what's left of my motivation to move" }, { "id": "t1_oknzxmn", "author": "/u/play_hard_outside", "updated": "2026-05-08T16:26:12+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/oknzxmn/", "content": "Don’t worry, 1 million at28 means you’re doing great!" }, { "id": "t1_okn631o", "author": "/u/artsnob11", "updated": "2026-05-08T14:13:49+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/okn631o/", "content": "Great idea live the dream life is way too short!! Surf and have fun from the sound of it you have the financial freedom!" }, { "id": "t1_okn6dq6", "author": "/u/Shawn_NYC", "updated": "2026-05-08T14:15:11+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/okn6dq6/", "content": "How do you even manage to spend $225 a year in Thailand?" }, { "id": "t1_okn6na9", "author": "/u/PistonHonda322", "updated": "2026-05-08T14:16:25+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/okn6na9/", "content": "Cool story bro. Watch out for kidnappers and elephants I suppose?" }, { "id": "t1_okn6vti", "author": "/u/Patient-Flan9037", "updated": "2026-05-08T14:17:30+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/okn6vti/", "content": "What is the income sleeve? Would love to understand more about that section of your post." }, { "id": "t1_okn6xtk", "author": "/u/adaniel65", "updated": "2026-05-08T14:17:46+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/okn6xtk/", "content": "That's fantastic! Enjoy your retirement! GFY! ✌️" }, { "id": "t1_okn7b5b", "author": "/u/cryinginturin", "updated": "2026-05-08T14:19:28+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/okn7b5b/", "content": "My guy flying first class Singapore suites for life" }, { "id": "t1_okn8by8", "author": "/u/FinancialFreedom12", "updated": "2026-05-08T14:24:05+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/okn8by8/", "content": "Lol I don't believe like 90% of the shit posted on this subreddit anymore. So many weird LARPers out there" }, { "id": "t1_okn8z7q", "author": "/u/anxiousbunnyclothes", "updated": "2026-05-08T14:26:59+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/okn8z7q/", "content": "Whoa, is this meant to be a humble brag?" }, { "id": "t1_okna2aw", "author": "/u/Carolina_Hurricane", "updated": "2026-05-08T14:31:53+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/okna2aw/", "content": "Only a 3% withdrawal rate (250k/$7.5M)? Are you aiming to grow your NW or keep it at $7.5M?\n I had originally planned to live off a target 4% SWR while investing 100% in S&P 500 during my working years. And then I realized that as long as I can weather a market downturn there’s no reason to change out of S&P 500 during retirement. 8% withdrawal rate sounds a lot better than 4% BAM! I just doubled my retirement income.\n The key is maintaining low fixed living expenses (~1% of NW per year) and living off a 3-4 year rolling average of S&P 500, thereby maintaining fixed NW." }, { "id": "t1_oknc58v", "author": "/u/N4003604", "updated": "2026-05-08T14:41:18+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/oknc58v/", "content": "All good points. I think we need to see how things play out. Ideally, yes, to grow the NW, and add in additional SPX Box Loans to cover life and other expenses. So, I will move from $1m to $2m, then $2m to $3m without ever having sold any stock and never paying any capital gains or other taxes ever (potentially). That’s the high level plan as I think today." }, { "id": "t1_oknb3r5", "author": "/u/SadMall6272", "updated": "2026-05-08T14:36:35+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/oknb3r5/", "content": "Damn can all these old white guys stop colonizing Southeast Asia?" }, { "id": "t1_oknbn89", "author": "/u/Casper-1234", "updated": "2026-05-08T14:39:03+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/oknbn89/", "content": "These posts are annoying and boring at the same time. And then I also wonder if they're even real. And then I'm like whatever, if this is a fat 14 yo boy from Alabama, does it make any difference? But then I'm like, why am I not rich, I'm doing pretty much the same thing as everyone else and I earn almost 600k (late 30s). And then I look around and none of the people who who earn the same have much more than whatever 2m.\n I should just avoid this sub." }, { "id": "t1_oknbtsb", "author": "/u/DontEatConcrete", "updated": "2026-05-08T14:39:52+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/oknbtsb/", "content": "do not marry a bargirl. You are the kind of person who ends up in a YouTube vid in six years disclosing how Thailand took all your money." }, { "id": "t1_oknc245", "author": "/u/Best_Ad_7856", "updated": "2026-05-08T14:40:55+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/oknc245/", "content": "With 7,5 mln your are a fucking God in Thailand" }, { "id": "t1_oknci4z", "author": "/u/whocaresreallythrow", "updated": "2026-05-08T14:42:54+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/oknci4z/", "content": "In Thailand / you’ll be ok." }, { "id": "t1_oknelm3", "author": "/u/TastyTittie", "updated": "2026-05-08T14:52:13+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/oknelm3/", "content": "Are you planning to buy the entire country?" }, { "id": "t1_oknemtw", "author": "/u/rexspook", "updated": "2026-05-08T14:52:22+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/oknemtw/", "content": "What do you even want people to comment on? You have 7.5m and moved to Thailand. What advice do you want?" }, { "id": "t1_oknepbn", "author": "", "updated": "2026-05-08T14:52:41+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/oknepbn/", "content": "[deleted]" }, { "id": "t1_oknezot", "author": "", "updated": "2026-05-08T14:53:57+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/oknezot/", "content": "[deleted]" }, { "id": "t1_oko47b7", "author": "/u/N4003604", "updated": "2026-05-08T16:45:25+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/oko47b7/", "content": "15 years ago I had no where near this net worth." }, { "id": "t1_oknf4v4", "author": "/u/DeLu2", "updated": "2026-05-08T14:54:34+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/oknf4v4/", "content": "How come you will be spending so much in Thailand? Did you go super luxurious?" }, { "id": "t1_oknf8v8", "author": "/u/Negative-Dingo3335", "updated": "2026-05-08T14:55:04+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/oknf8v8/", "content": "More like FatFIRED" }, { "id": "t1_oknfbzi", "author": "/u/Dolly_Llama_2024", "updated": "2026-05-08T14:55:26+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/oknfbzi/", "content": "Doesn’t the US have an exit tax? Or do people like this just pretend they continue to live in the US and pay US taxes?" }, { "id": "t1_oknfn80", "author": "/u/N4003604", "updated": "2026-05-08T14:56:48+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/oknfn80/", "content": "I’m a US citizen, and file and pay taxes every year. And my assets are domiciled in the US. So an “exit tax” doesn’t apply. US citizens are taxed worldwide as well. So moving abroad does nothing for me." }, { "id": "t1_oknnp36", "author": "/u/Dolly_Llama_2024", "updated": "2026-05-08T15:32:21+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/oknnp36/", "content": "Right… forgot about the citizenship based tax, as opposed to residency based. So makes sense that an exit tax wouldn’t apply unless you gave up your citizenship." }, { "id": "t1_oko3zig", "author": "/u/N4003604", "updated": "2026-05-08T16:44:27+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/oko3zig/", "content": "Yep. I have friends who have given up their US citizenship, and the exit tax only applies to folks with a certain net worth as well." }, { "id": "t1_oknfvnf", "author": "/u/Hophopper", "updated": "2026-05-08T14:57:50+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/oknfvnf/", "content": "You have won the game\n Well done" }, { "id": "t1_okng1dn", "author": "/u/ggdharma", "updated": "2026-05-08T14:58:34+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/okng1dn/", "content": "Wtf is life in Thailand like on 225k per year post tax? Are you exclusively in penthouses and fine dining? Sounds lovely." }, { "id": "t1_oknhmy7", "author": "/u/N4003604", "updated": "2026-05-08T15:05:41+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/oknhmy7/", "content": "No idea will let you know!" }, { "id": "t1_okng7m4", "author": "/u/petrucci666", "updated": "2026-05-08T14:59:20+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/okng7m4/", "content": "amazing OP! enjoy those many years ahead 🙏\n at what age did you start with your investment strategy?" }, { "id": "t1_oknhin8", "author": "/u/N4003604", "updated": "2026-05-08T15:05:09+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/oknhin8/", "content": "Started at 30, when i finished grad school with $100,000 in student loans! Key for success, was after finishing school I followed, a bit loosely, Dave Ramsey’s and Warren Buffet. Don’t spend more than you make, avoid debt, and invest and don’t sell. I would take take 10 to 15% off of my bonus and salaries, invest and live off the rest. The best financial decisions, ever was never selling stock during the GFC or similar downturns. I grinned and beared the paper losses (and since I still had a job) dollar cost averaged into additional positions during the crash with whatever disposable cash I had." }, { "id": "t1_oknzc1y", "author": "/u/After_Marzipan7003", "updated": "2026-05-08T16:23:31+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/oknzc1y/", "content": "Funny as I am about same age, did same... and my nw is also similar!" }, { "id": "t1_oko3jh7", "author": "/u/N4003604", "updated": "2026-05-08T16:42:28+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/oko3jh7/", "content": "Great for you!" }, { "id": "t1_okngefe", "author": "/u/themillenniumeye", "updated": "2026-05-08T15:00:11+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/okngefe/", "content": "i dont know you but im really happy for you. enjoy 😃" }, { "id": "t1_oknilw5", "author": "/u/jfhgcc", "updated": "2026-05-08T15:10:00+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/oknilw5/", "content": "What strike price are you selling those puts? Just curious" }, { "id": "t1_oknirsk", "author": "/u/1290_money", "updated": "2026-05-08T15:10:43+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/oknirsk/", "content": "I don't think moving to Thailand with that nest egg was necessary lol.\n But have fun." }, { "id": "t1_oknj1ra", "author": "/u/TheCharalampos", "updated": "2026-05-08T15:11:57+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/oknj1ra/", "content": "Why Thailand?" }, { "id": "t1_oknjnnd", "author": "/u/DecentDiscipline2523", "updated": "2026-05-08T15:14:37+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/oknjnnd/", "content": "Fantastic job.. good on you! Now why waste mental energy and time trying to squeeze every last percentage out of those strategies? You’ve got plenty to just ride.. unless it’s somehow giving you a sense of purpose? If that’s the case, I would find a more meaningful purpose. Congrats!" }, { "id": "t1_okntmbe", "author": "/u/N4003604", "updated": "2026-05-08T15:58:01+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/okntmbe/", "content": "Well, it allows for mental stimulation and two maybe I will try to do something to help others be able to do similar." }, { "id": "t1_oknlfo1", "author": "/u/KeepItTidyZA", "updated": "2026-05-08T15:22:27+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/oknlfo1/", "content": "That will give you a tip tier lifestyle in Thailand. Enjoy." }, { "id": "t1_oknljdj", "author": "/u/Impossible_Cat_321", "updated": "2026-05-08T15:22:53+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/oknljdj/", "content": "I literally have no idea what half that means, but congrats." }, { "id": "t1_oknn6dr", "author": "/u/Appropriate-Alarm749", "updated": "2026-05-08T15:30:05+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/oknn6dr/", "content": "congrats 😉" }, { "id": "t1_oknnjul", "author": "/u/alex_korr", "updated": "2026-05-08T15:31:43+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/oknnjul/", "content": "Question on the SPX Box loans. Are you writing short box spreads yourself - I am assuming that they're short since they're funding other securities purchases? Or is your brokerage managing this for you? If you're doing it yourself, I am assuming that loan maturities=expiration dates? Thank you in advance and good luck in SE Asia." }, { "id": "t1_okno9a6", "author": "/u/fi-nelly", "updated": "2026-05-08T15:34:47+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/okno9a6/", "content": "I thought this was a post to r/fijerk at first..." }, { "id": "t1_oknpmmm", "author": "/u/Fit_Acanthisitta_475", "updated": "2026-05-08T15:40:45+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/oknpmmm/", "content": "Live like king in Thailand" }, { "id": "t1_oknptsg", "author": "/u/deliriousfoodie", "updated": "2026-05-08T15:41:37+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/oknptsg/", "content": "Bravo!" }, { "id": "t1_oknq7yc", "author": "/u/K_A_irony", "updated": "2026-05-08T15:43:19+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/oknq7yc/", "content": "I keep double checking what sub I am in.... I keep thinking this should be r/fijerk" }, { "id": "t1_oknqs7k", "author": "/u/rollinrob", "updated": "2026-05-08T15:45:44+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/oknqs7k/", "content": "Thailand's awesome. Congrats on retiring. I've been in Thailand since last september, retired at 57. Totally due to nvidea which is still about 60% of my portfolio. Where are you in Thailand?" }, { "id": "t1_oknqt5n", "author": "/u/Mean_Poetry_9991", "updated": "2026-05-08T15:45:51+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/oknqt5n/", "content": "How about Mogadishu? You’ll live like a king" }, { "id": "t1_oknshuq", "author": "/u/N4003604", "updated": "2026-05-08T15:53:09+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/oknshuq/", "content": "Minus the the 24/7 security required to live there." }, { "id": "t1_oknsc8y", "author": "/u/Select-Basket8350", "updated": "2026-05-08T15:52:29+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/oknsc8y/", "content": "What kind of lifestyle are you planning to live in Thailand that you need 225K USD a year? A quick google search says 3K USD/ month allows for a pretty high-end experience. Even if you factor in additional needs/wants (healthcare, travel, etc.). the 225K seems excessive. Just avoid the high end ladyboys and you should be okay.\n Idk if this is a legit post but I think you'll be ight." }, { "id": "t1_oknxevt", "author": "/u/StrangeAd4944", "updated": "2026-05-08T16:14:54+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/oknxevt/", "content": "I don’t understand why all the financial gymnastics when you can collect about $125k just having it in the total stock market and sell another percent or two when needed." }, { "id": "t1_oko2s44", "author": "/u/Absolutlyyes", "updated": "2026-05-08T16:39:03+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/oko2s44/", "content": "Bière, massages et filles il va falloir tenir dans la durée 😄" }, { "id": "t1_oko3grt", "author": "/u/raybean12", "updated": "2026-05-08T16:42:08+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/oko3grt/", "content": "7.5 million Thailand is = to 75 million usd your a G here." }, { "id": "t1_oko4nzf", "author": "/u/maddogisnextdoor", "updated": "2026-05-08T16:47:30+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/oko4nzf/", "content": "Explain the loans…how do you generate income from that…" }, { "id": "t1_oko6ebb", "author": "/u/Remarkable-Emu-6008", "updated": "2026-05-08T16:55:09+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/oko6ebb/", "content": "you can live a high class life in Thailand with this amount of money." }, { "id": "t1_oko6v6m", "author": "/u/yoooooooooooo", "updated": "2026-05-08T16:57:13+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/oko6v6m/", "content": "Are you buying a place in Thailand? Curios how awesome it will be with your budget" }, { "id": "t1_oko7dyq", "author": "/u/N4003604", "updated": "2026-05-08T16:59:30+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/oko7dyq/", "content": "I already own a condo but will buy or most likely rent a larger place to live." }, { "id": "t1_okoaf42", "author": "/u/purub123", "updated": "2026-05-08T17:12:51+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/okoaf42/", "content": "Swap jepi for gpix, better tax and performance" }, { "id": "t1_okoe0v2", "author": "/u/N4003604", "updated": "2026-05-08T17:28:50+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/okoe0v2/", "content": "I’ll look into it, thanks." }, { "id": "t1_okodqk9", "author": "/u/merrillman", "updated": "2026-05-08T17:27:34+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/okodqk9/", "content": "JEPI NOT fixed income." }, { "id": "t1_okoetcv", "author": "/u/JamesDeanGoneMean", "updated": "2026-05-08T17:32:20+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/okoetcv/", "content": "Hey it’s me, your long lost son. Just wanting to say congrats on the FIRE package" }, { "id": "t1_okof31s", "author": "/u/MonkFire", "updated": "2026-05-08T17:33:32+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/okof31s/", "content": "Thailand is too costly, wont be able to survive with 7.5M. Did you consider lower cost of living like Afghanistan?" }, { "id": "t1_okofbdo", "author": "/u/ThisIsMyBigAccount", "updated": "2026-05-08T17:34:34+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/okofbdo/", "content": "Why do you need $225k per year in Thailand? Seems like a lot. Also, maybe or maybe not related, don't forget to cup-check. Some are not ladies." }, { "id": "t1_okoh6qt", "author": "/u/StrategyHot7818", "updated": "2026-05-08T17:42:54+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/okoh6qt/", "content": "Where in Thailand?" }, { "id": "t1_okopecv", "author": "/u/max5767", "updated": "2026-05-08T18:19:57+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/okopecv/", "content": "Happy for you but here go again." }, { "id": "t1_okorxkb", "author": "/u/That-SoCal-Guy", "updated": "2026-05-08T18:31:45+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/okorxkb/", "content": "Is this /fijerk subreddit?" }, { "id": "t1_okotgfd", "author": "/u/Quags_77", "updated": "2026-05-08T18:38:52+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/okotgfd/", "content": "Is this meme post? You can live like a king until you die in Thailand with 7M" }, { "id": "t1_okovi4j", "author": "/u/Nervous-Act3986", "updated": "2026-05-08T18:48:32+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/okovi4j/", "content": "Is there something in particular that attracted you to Thailand?" }, { "id": "t1_okqn9bn", "author": "/u/N4003604", "updated": "2026-05-09T00:25:22+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/okqn9bn/", "content": "Quality of life." }, { "id": "t1_okox4g3", "author": "", "updated": "2026-05-08T18:56:06+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/okox4g3/", "content": "[deleted]" }, { "id": "t1_okoxmbr", "author": "/u/tinytearice", "updated": "2026-05-08T18:58:24+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/okoxmbr/", "content": "Go back to work dude." }, { "id": "t1_okoxyiq", "author": "/u/quintanarooty", "updated": "2026-05-08T18:59:59+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/okoxyiq/", "content": "Who cares about your investment strategy lol. What visa are you on in Thailand? How are you living with a $225k annual spend in Thailand? Those are the details we need." }, { "id": "t1_okoycxa", "author": "/u/FootballSquare4406", "updated": "2026-05-08T19:01:53+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/okoycxa/", "content": "I wish these people would at least post the prompt they used on ChatGPT to spit out this shit." }, { "id": "t1_okp5bn7", "author": "/u/w1na", "updated": "2026-05-08T19:35:26+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/okp5bn7/", "content": "With so much money to splash, careful not to be too ostentatious or you could end up in a ditch." }, { "id": "t1_okqmnb5", "author": "/u/N4003604", "updated": "2026-05-09T00:21:41+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/okqmnb5/", "content": "That only happens to Chinese and Russian gangsters in Thailand.\n Truth is unless you’re involved in businesses that interact with nightlife (go-go bars, etc…), financial scams, or gambling nothing bad will happen to you in Thailand." }, { "id": "t1_okp7lhi", "author": "", "updated": "2026-05-08T19:46:22+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/okp7lhi/", "content": "[deleted]" }, { "id": "t1_okpbid8", "author": "/u/Necessary_aphasia", "updated": "2026-05-08T20:04:54+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/okpbid8/", "content": "Congrats! Living in the dream!\n What’s your plan for the next 10 -20 years?" }, { "id": "t1_okpbufb", "author": "/u/ttandam", "updated": "2026-05-08T20:06:29+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/okpbufb/", "content": "Congratulations! Did you buy a place in Thailand or are you renting a while? Was it hard to get a visa? Also, what kind of an annual return do you make off of the cash-secured puts? I need to look into this strategy." }, { "id": "t1_okpd3ve", "author": "/u/juneyang511", "updated": "2026-05-08T20:12:27+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/okpd3ve/", "content": "OP about to live like a god in Thailand lol congrats 🎉 enjoy the sun, the beach and retirement!" }, { "id": "t1_okpdhn0", "author": "", "updated": "2026-05-08T20:14:20+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/okpdhn0/", "content": "[deleted]" }, { "id": "t1_okpfegi", "author": "/u/Fast-Entertainer2712", "updated": "2026-05-08T20:23:27+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/okpfegi/", "content": "I need $200k to start my fire journey 🔥" }, { "id": "t1_okphe1h", "author": "/u/merrillman", "updated": "2026-05-08T20:32:58+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/okphe1h/", "content": "Not sure if you’re trying to have an 85/15 asset allocation between stocks and bonds. Or if you mean objective is 85% growth and 15% income. Could matter based on your risk tolerance." }, { "id": "t1_okphzlf", "author": "/u/Ready_Pen7712", "updated": "2026-05-08T20:35:51+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t77kx5/just_fireed_75m_portfolio_moved_to_thailand/okphzlf/", "content": "Kids? Family?" } ] }, { "source": "r/Fire top month", "id": "t3_1tsalph", "title": "PSA: Social Security pays more than you think, especially for high earners", "author": "/u/Wooden-Broccoli-913", "updated": "2026-05-30T20:29:15+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/", "content": "I graduated college in 2008, only hit the SS max wage in 2014 ($117k) and have only earned the max wage for the subsequent 12 years. If I retired today at age 40 I would be entitled to $45k in SS at age 70. Times two people (spouse has similar earning history) is $90k in income at age 70, that’s basically all of our non-discretionary spend.\n submitted by /u/Wooden-Broccoli-913\n [link] [comments]", "contentHtml": "

I graduated college in 2008, only hit the SS max wage in 2014 ($117k) and have only earned the max wage for the subsequent 12 years. If I retired today at age 40 I would be entitled to $45k in SS at age 70. Times two people (spouse has similar earning history) is $90k in income at age 70, that’s basically all of our non-discretionary spend.

submitted by /u/Wooden-Broccoli-913
[link] [comments]", "comments": [ { "id": "t1_ootrvlg", "author": "/u/Aware-Cauliflower403", "updated": "2026-05-30T20:43:11+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/ootrvlg/", "content": "Do you use the social security website to estimate that? If I Fire in my 40s I won't have 35 years of working so they'll average in some zeros into the calculation, right?" }, { "id": "t1_oottla4", "author": "/u/Zphr", "updated": "2026-05-30T20:52:07+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/oottla4/", "content": "Yes, but the impact is often less than you'd expect, particularly if you were a higher earner.\n https://reddit.com/r/financialindependence/comments/n47nfn/early_retirement_impacts_social_security_payment/" }, { "id": "t1_oouebwo", "author": "/u/alpacaMyToothbrush", "updated": "2026-05-30T22:46:27+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/oouebwo/", "content": "I always appreciate how you come to a discussion with sources. Thank you for the link!" }, { "id": "t1_oox7w4x", "author": "/u/casualdollars", "updated": "2026-05-31T11:00:45+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/oox7w4x/", "content": "Kitces does a proper analysis of this topic\n https://www.kitces.com/blog/calculating-how-much-projected-social-security-benefits-statement-reduced-for-early-retirement/" }, { "id": "t1_ooxsp5t", "author": "/u/alpacaMyToothbrush", "updated": "2026-05-31T13:18:30+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/ooxsp5t/", "content": "Very much appreciated! Will have a look." }, { "id": "t1_oozdbad", "author": "/u/Cyborg59_2020", "updated": "2026-05-31T17:55:27+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/oozdbad/", "content": "That was an incredibly helpful article, thank you." }, { "id": "t1_oou1f3p", "author": "/u/Victor_Appleton_II", "updated": "2026-05-30T21:33:38+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/oou1f3p/", "content": "Yes, the calculation is based on your top 35 years of earnings. If you work from age 16 to 46, you’ll have 30 years of earnings. The 5 years of 0 earnings averaged in will have an effect, but you’d still get a a decent SS check if you maximized earnings in your 20s thru 40s. Add 2 or 3 more years and the impact is minimal. Then it becomes a matter of delaying collection til as close to 70 years of age as possible." }, { "id": "t1_oou26jl", "author": "/u/Zphr", "updated": "2026-05-30T21:37:47+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/oou26jl/", "content": "I have 17 or 18 years of zeroes and the effect is fairly mild at about a 23% reduction compared to if I had kept making my final salary for another two decades rather than retiring early." }, { "id": "t1_oovo7u1", "author": "/u/mista_resista", "updated": "2026-05-31T03:24:37+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/oovo7u1/", "content": "So do you only pay SS taxes if you work a job?\n Maybe this is a dumb question but if you FIRE’d do you just not pay SS anymore?" }, { "id": "t1_oovpaok", "author": "/u/Zphr", "updated": "2026-05-31T03:31:51+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/oovpaok/", "content": "That is correct. I will likely start collecting SS when I turn 70 in 2047, but my last year paying SS taxes was 2014 when I was 37.\n Medicare taxes work similarly, though not identically." }, { "id": "t1_ooz8498", "author": "/u/Embarrassed-Care6130", "updated": "2026-05-31T17:31:30+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/ooz8498/", "content": "If you have sufficiently high income in retirement you will still have to pay the 3.8% Medicare investment tax on income over $250k. AFAIK that threshold is not inflation-adjusted, so even though it seems like a lot, more and more people will get hit with it in the future." }, { "id": "t1_ooz8x2a", "author": "/u/Zphr", "updated": "2026-05-31T17:35:13+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/ooz8x2a/", "content": "As I said, similarly, but not identically." }, { "id": "t1_op9rcmb", "author": "/u/700867", "updated": "2026-06-02T06:39:09+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/op9rcmb/", "content": "No SS tax on Social Security benefits, was that your question?" }, { "id": "t1_oovs2n9", "author": "/u/Mannimal13", "updated": "2026-05-31T03:50:47+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/oovs2n9/", "content": "SS is going nowhere, but I fully expect changes to how its calculated and I think they are going to punish a lot of non earned income years more." }, { "id": "t1_oovt0lo", "author": "/u/Zphr", "updated": "2026-05-31T03:57:14+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/oovt0lo/", "content": "It's always a possibility, but doing so will harm many of the most vulnerable among the SS recipient pool without providing massive savings, which is not particularly palatable for Congress. SS is a very progressive system by intentional design and several of the proposed solutions (raising tax cap, new bend point, capping benefits via some means-testing) aim to make it more progressive, not less.\n Our combined FRAs are already in excess of our annual spending though and it's all bonus money to us, so I'm not much worried about potential reductions." }, { "id": "t1_ooyuc4x", "author": "/u/Lou__Mannheim", "updated": "2026-05-31T16:27:01+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/ooyuc4x/", "content": "> I think they are going to punish a lot of non earned income years more\n How would this work? You’re already effectively getting punished by not getting credit for those years. Are you thinking some type of additional penalty?" }, { "id": "t1_op2j9g0", "author": "/u/Mannimal13", "updated": "2026-06-01T04:37:55+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/op2j9g0/", "content": "But you arent because of how the cliffs work." }, { "id": "t1_oouqj0z", "author": "/u/AppalachianRomanov", "updated": "2026-05-30T23:59:29+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/oouqj0z/", "content": "As a noob I'm learning so much rn! This is the kind of stuff I sub here for. Thank you for sharing." }, { "id": "t1_ooujgt7", "author": "/u/PleasantDreamsicle", "updated": "2026-05-30T23:16:28+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/ooujgt7/", "content": "Yeah, I have 7 years of zeros and 26 years of maxing out. (I moved to the USA in my 20s). My estimated ssa income looks great." }, { "id": "t1_oov9tue", "author": "/u/birdiebonanza", "updated": "2026-05-31T01:57:44+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/oov9tue/", "content": "When you say “maxing out” do you mean there’s a cap after which it doesn’t actually matter how much you make, your SS benefit would be exactly the same? If so, what is that?" }, { "id": "t1_oovb7v6", "author": "/u/seb2b9", "updated": "2026-05-31T02:05:56+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/oovb7v6/", "content": "Your income above $184,500 is not taxed for social security. You could make a million dollars, and you would pay the same in social security taxes as someone who made $184,501 (based on the notion that social security has a maximum payout, and social security taxes above the current threshold wouldn’t ever be paid out to the taxpayer in his/her retirement)." }, { "id": "t1_oovdqlz", "author": "/u/birdiebonanza", "updated": "2026-05-31T02:21:08+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/oovdqlz/", "content": "Ok I think I understand! So someone who makes 4 million dollars their first year of their career and then retires and never makes another penny, will get the same benefit as someone who worked $184,501 one year and never worked again. But that $4M earner would get as a benefit half what someone would get if they made $184,501 for TWO years and then retired?" }, { "id": "t1_oovevvn", "author": "/u/Which-Relation1199", "updated": "2026-05-31T02:27:57+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/oovevvn/", "content": "Technically, if you only worked 1 year, you don't qualify. You have to earn 40 work credits - you get a maximum of 4 for every year, and you earn 1 credit for every $1,890 you earn in 2026. So basically you have to work for 10 years to qualify.\n But to your point, yes- once your earnings exceed the annual SS limit, it makes no difference how far above that limit you are - it counts the same." }, { "id": "t1_oovq9dw", "author": "/u/ThirstyWolfSpider", "updated": "2026-05-31T03:38:25+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/oovq9dw/", "content": "In addition to the other commenter's point about eligibility thresholds, you're assuming a linear relationship between SSA-taxed income and benefits, and that doesn't always apply. It might be linear when you're maxing out the SSA-taxed amount in a year, but spreading income across years can actually result in more benefits than if in fewer years, even if you stay below the SSA-taxed cap.\n There are two "bend points" for the rate at which SSA-taxed income relates to future payments. There are complications like a given year's income being averaged across the months, but the first $X per month counts at 90%, the amount between $X and $Y per month counts at 32%, and the amount between $Y and the maximum taxed by SSA counts at 15%. The first dollars of SSA-taxed income contribute much more than the last SSA-taxed income.\n Those thresholds also change from year to year. It may work better to just take your specific levels, or an approximation thereof, and throw that into one of their online calculators for an estimate." }, { "id": "t1_oovuifa", "author": "/u/PleasantDreamsicle", "updated": "2026-05-31T04:07:39+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/oovuifa/", "content": "Not exactly. You’re only getting the $184,501 credit for one year. So it doesn’t matter how much you make over that in the same year, when you retire you’ll only get ssa benefits as if you contributed just that amount.\n I think it’s one area where the country should make change - cap the benefit based on the maximum annual level but keep taxing income earned above that." }, { "id": "t1_oovu5aa", "author": "/u/HerefortheTuna", "updated": "2026-05-31T04:05:07+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/oovu5aa/", "content": "Until they change the rules on us.\n The one thing that will piss me off is if they use means testing and say that since I saved I don’t get shit but my neighbor who spent every penny gets it because he NEEDS it. Fuck my neighbor he deserves to be homeless and eating car food\n In this scenario my neighbor is my same age and sane income- not a real scenario just to paint a picture of why I’m not personally banking on a ton of SS income" }, { "id": "t1_oov4cyh", "author": "/u/BenOfTomorrow", "updated": "2026-05-31T01:23:32+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/oov4cyh/", "content": "It takes about 17/18 years of maxing social security contributions to hit the second bend point* - that’s only half the window to get maximum impact. And that’s assuming those are the only years you worked - non-zeros in other years reduce that further.\n *Bend point (briefly) are average monthly wage thresholds where your corresponding SS payout starts dropping. You get 90% of your wage at the beginning, but only 15% after the second bend point." }, { "id": "t1_oowwnf8", "author": "", "updated": "2026-05-31T09:25:58+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/oowwnf8/", "content": "[deleted]" }, { "id": "t1_op0k0wt", "author": "/u/Rdw72777", "updated": "2026-05-31T21:21:52+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/op0k0wt/", "content": "These numbers don’t show that you’d make $45k per year though?" }, { "id": "t1_oou3cdc", "author": "/u/CasuallyCompetitive", "updated": "2026-05-30T21:44:10+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/oou3cdc/", "content": "Someone can correct me if I'm wrong, but yes it adds in zeroes to fill the remaining years. But it won't affect you as much as you might expect because of how it's weighted.\n If you search "social security AIME" you can get a decent understanding of it. It's kind of weighted opposite of income tax so low income earners aren't screwed." }, { "id": "t1_oouaphz", "author": "/u/elbow-macaroni-42", "updated": "2026-05-30T22:25:22+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/oouaphz/", "content": "Yeah, I mean you have the first and second bend points…. 90% for what… first 1200 of your 35 year average, and something like 32% above that…\n The math might work out, but I would still be worried about stretching my savings for 30 years." }, { "id": "t1_oouqj2g", "author": "/u/CasuallyCompetitive", "updated": "2026-05-30T23:59:30+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/oouqj2g/", "content": "Yeah, the years before SS kicks in are probably the bigger factor than the missed years of income for the SS calculation." }, { "id": "t1_oottm9w", "author": "/u/Ukeheisenburg", "updated": "2026-05-30T20:52:15+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/oottm9w/", "content": "I'ma plug the calculator on SSA Tools here. It's great!!! ssa.tools\n Edit because wow my phone jacked up that formatting... Haha" }, { "id": "t1_ooum7rv", "author": "/u/Then-Abies4797", "updated": "2026-05-30T23:33:04+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/ooum7rv/", "content": "Quick question on the Social Security statement. I assume the estimates of Social Security dependent on retirement age is in today’s dollars?" }, { "id": "t1_oouokr0", "author": "/u/Ukeheisenburg", "updated": "2026-05-30T23:47:30+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/oouokr0/", "content": "The statement assumes you make the same thing annually until you claim benefits. And is in todays dollars." }, { "id": "t1_oovkmmc", "author": "/u/Zphr", "updated": "2026-05-31T03:01:35+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/oovkmmc/", "content": "And when you've been retired for a year with $0 SS earnings it recalculates to assume $0 for all remaining years." }, { "id": "t1_oov6vk8", "author": "/u/PenStreet3684", "updated": "2026-05-31T01:39:30+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/oov6vk8/", "content": "The ssa website also gives you the option to change future earnings. In this case to zero." }, { "id": "t1_oouhesp", "author": "/u/Asquaredbred", "updated": "2026-05-30T23:04:17+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/oouhesp/", "content": "his numbers are wrong. if you put in 12 years max earnings and zero the rest you get a benefit of $2858 per month in 2026 dollars. maybe he's using inflated dollars or not zeroing correctly.\n it's true that after the second bend point (17-18 years of max earnings) benefit grows slowly. but his calculations overstate the benefit substantially - it's particularly clear because 12 years is before the second bend point." }, { "id": "t1_oov1xug", "author": "/u/mmrose1980", "updated": "2026-05-31T01:09:14+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/oov1xug/", "content": "But he didn’t say that all the other years were zero years. He said he first started maxing out in 2014, but he started working at jobs in 2008 making $60k and he probably didn’t even have zero years from age 16-2008. Those low earning years in high school and college count as non-zero years." }, { "id": "t1_oourprf", "author": "/u/Wooden-Broccoli-913", "updated": "2026-05-31T00:06:48+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/oourprf/", "content": "Read my post again. I started working in 2008. Ramp up of salary to the max in 2014." }, { "id": "t1_op1cxt9", "author": "/u/mi3chaels", "updated": "2026-06-01T00:03:10+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/op1cxt9/", "content": "he said he only hit the max for 12 years, but graduated college 6 years before that and probably made a decent wage to start increasing until it hit the max. Also may have made some substantial amount of money during HS and college. I made the equivalent of around 1.5x my first years "real" job wage over the course of my HS and college years and I wasn't even particularly aggressive about it, just did summer jobs and minimal work study.\n so I'd guess their total earnings was equivalent to at least 15 years of max if not 16-17." }, { "id": "t1_oott21t", "author": "/u/Sufficient_You7187", "updated": "2026-05-30T20:49:20+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/oott21t/", "content": "Correct they factor those years as zeroes" }, { "id": "t1_oou5n66", "author": "/u/skystreak22", "updated": "2026-05-30T21:56:47+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/oou5n66/", "content": "The last time I checked the official calculator on ssa.gov a year or so ago, there was no way to add zeroes for a fire scenario. It would only calculate a continuation of your most recent salary until you hit 35 years" }, { "id": "t1_oou5uol", "author": "/u/More_Armadillo_1607", "updated": "2026-05-30T21:57:55+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/oou5uol/", "content": "You can add zero as 0f today for future years. Not perfect but still gives you a sense." }, { "id": "t1_oou9rzm", "author": "/u/skystreak22", "updated": "2026-05-30T22:20:02+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/oou9rzm/", "content": "Are you talking about ssa.tools that people are linking? Because that is not the official calculator, I just got back on ssa.gov and the official calculator still does not have this option. The only variable you can change is retirement age. If you click "Learn More" below the Annual Income tab that lists your 2025 tax AGI, you get a statement that says "To calculate your benefit estimates we assume you'll continue to work and make around the same amount as last year until you claim benefits."" }, { "id": "t1_oouek6p", "author": "/u/OkStrategy3444", "updated": "2026-05-30T22:47:45+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/oouek6p/", "content": "On the government website, see where it says “Annual Income” and there is an arrow next to it? Click on that and you can change it to 0." }, { "id": "t1_ooul79q", "author": "/u/skystreak22", "updated": "2026-05-30T23:26:53+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/ooul79q/", "content": "Nice! I see it now" }, { "id": "t1_oouclbp", "author": "/u/More_Armadillo_1607", "updated": "2026-05-30T22:36:19+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/oouclbp/", "content": "No. I'm one of the only ones on here who uses ssa.gov Everyone else uses Ai and other tools\n You can change your current income to zero and it shows what it would be if you retired today" }, { "id": "t1_oov7qgt", "author": "/u/mmrose1980", "updated": "2026-05-31T01:44:54+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/oov7qgt/", "content": "No. You can add zero years on ssa.gov. It takes a few clicks but it’s definitely possible." }, { "id": "t1_oovr1vm", "author": "/u/ThirstyWolfSpider", "updated": "2026-05-31T03:43:49+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/oovr1vm/", "content": "There are multiple calculators on ssa.gov, and this one lets you enter a value for "Enter the amount you expect to earn in 2027. The calculator will use this same amount of earnings for each future year up to the year you expect to stop working.", which seems to cover the retire-now case, but it doesn't appear to support the "non-zero for the next 5 years, and then zeroes thereafter" case." }, { "id": "t1_oououca", "author": "/u/ChewyHoneyBadger", "updated": "2026-05-30T23:49:08+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/oououca/", "content": "I think you’re right in that this poster is not accounting for the zeros if he stops now. I’ve played with it and now I’m at max, but if I stop, it drops quite a bit" }, { "id": "t1_oou71ac", "author": "/u/Interesting-Method50", "updated": "2026-05-30T22:04:29+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/oou71ac/", "content": "This tool is bad ass and can help you with your scenarios. https://ssa.tools/" }, { "id": "t1_ooxtcfe", "author": "/u/Adventurous_Tap3748", "updated": "2026-05-31T13:22:10+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/ooxtcfe/", "content": "SS averages the highest 35 yrs" }, { "id": "t1_op0n3g9", "author": "/u/SorryPiece8368", "updated": "2026-05-31T21:37:38+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/op0n3g9/", "content": "I thought they got rid of the calculator. It was helpful to estimate how much you’d get if you plugged your suspected salary in each year" }, { "id": "t1_opfqse2", "author": "/u/Virtual-Standard6969", "updated": "2026-06-03T02:10:21+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/opfqse2/", "content": "Also see what 25 years of inflation does to that high dollar amount that you will be waiting to collect." }, { "id": "t1_ootqujn", "author": "/u/gumnamaadmi", "updated": "2026-05-30T20:37:49+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/ootqujn/", "content": "I have started treating social security as insurance payment. Plan to take it after 70. If one of us happens to live longer, that higher monthly payment will come in handy." }, { "id": "t1_ootswpp", "author": "/u/Most-Piccolo-302", "updated": "2026-05-30T20:48:33+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/ootswpp/", "content": "The math ive seen says taking it at 62 and investing it can actually yield more over time. Maybe you could create a separate brokerage to invest it and have it ad a secondary nest egg? This also protects against it getting lowered or going away during that period somewhat" }, { "id": "t1_ootvbfe", "author": "/u/zzzacmil", "updated": "2026-05-30T21:01:09+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/ootvbfe/", "content": "I think generally the math suggests for a couple, the lower earner taking it early and the higher earner taking it later gives the best return." }, { "id": "t1_oou193u", "author": "/u/Zphr", "updated": "2026-05-30T21:32:44+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/oou193u/", "content": "This is also because the lower earner can file for spousal benefits when the higher earner files later, which allows for both early claiming and a benefit boost years later." }, { "id": "t1_ooul1ct", "author": "/u/PineapplesInMyHead2", "updated": "2026-05-30T23:25:54+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/ooul1ct/", "content": "It's not for spousal benefits, it's for survivor benefits. If the higher earner dies the lower earner can switch to their benefit amount. So you want the higher benefit to be as high as possible. Especially because it's very common for an older man to be the higher earner, so they'll likely die earlier and leave the larger check for longer." }, { "id": "t1_oouo5dg", "author": "/u/Zphr", "updated": "2026-05-30T23:44:51+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/oouo5dg/", "content": "It can be for both. Spouses can receive up to 50% of their spouse's PIA if that would be higher than their own. Survivor benefits can be up to 100% (including DRCs). The lower earner can have two increases in their benefit after claiming early, once when the higher earner claims (if the spousal calculation on PIA would yield an increase), and again when the higher earner dies." }, { "id": "t1_oovlxjh", "author": "/u/poop-dolla", "updated": "2026-05-31T03:09:41+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/oovlxjh/", "content": "up to 50%\n That “up to” is key here, and I feel like you need to add more about that, because without it, it seems like you’re implying people can get more than they really would. When you start taking early, you lock your portion of the benefit at that lower rate. Then when your higher earning spouse starts taking later, you can add the difference between what your payout would have been if you delayed taking it and half of your spouse’s benefit. So you won’t get half your partner’s benefit." }, { "id": "t1_oovo0gy", "author": "/u/Zphr", "updated": "2026-05-31T03:23:17+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/oovo0gy/", "content": "I leave it up to FIRE folks to educate themselves on the specifics as they might apply for the particular mix of earnings and claiming options in their married household. Many folks in here don't even understand how PIA is calculated or how DRCs work and why. There are limits to my inclination to help folks into the weeds." }, { "id": "t1_oou3sh8", "author": "/u/ExuberantSloth29", "updated": "2026-05-30T21:46:39+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/oou3sh8/", "content": "You can't take spousal benefits if your spouse is not themselves claiming. If you're divorced, you can claim off of the divorced spouse's record without them having claimed yet, though.\n You can file for your own benefit at 62, though, and have that raised as a spouse when your spouse starts claiming . The early filing reduction still applies, but is reset if the benefit converts to a survivor's benefit." }, { "id": "t1_oou4ly1", "author": "/u/Zphr", "updated": "2026-05-30T21:51:06+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/oou4ly1/", "content": "Yes, I know, hence my statement that you replied to.\n This is also because the lower earner can file for spousal benefits when the higher earner files later," }, { "id": "t1_oou5b4s", "author": "/u/ExuberantSloth29", "updated": "2026-05-30T21:54:56+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/oou5b4s/", "content": "Ah my bad, misread "when" as "then"" }, { "id": "t1_oou0nn1", "author": "/u/snarkyphalanges", "updated": "2026-05-30T21:29:32+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/oou0nn1/", "content": "What if you make around the same?" }, { "id": "t1_oou5hpb", "author": "/u/Few_Department_4647", "updated": "2026-05-30T21:55:57+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/oou5hpb/", "content": "I’d then have the older of the couple takes it first to maximum time between first check and final check." }, { "id": "t1_ootxn47", "author": "/u/FantasyFI", "updated": "2026-05-30T21:13:26+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/ootxn47/", "content": "But the goal isn't to maximize. It's to reduce risk of failure. I think that's the point of thinking about it as an insurance policy. It's reframing the goal.\n Delaying until 72 helps if you live to be 95+.\n If you die at 75, that's still "winning", even though you got less payout vs taking at 62. Because "winning" is not running out of money, it has nothing to do with max payout." }, { "id": "t1_ootyktk", "author": "/u/Shoddy_Ad7511", "updated": "2026-05-30T21:18:22+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/ootyktk/", "content": "Delaying till 85 guarantees you don’t run out of money. But you might also be dead" }, { "id": "t1_oov96i7", "author": "/u/SorchaRoisin", "updated": "2026-05-31T01:53:47+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/oov96i7/", "content": "Delayed retirement credits stop at 70. Waiting past 70 doesn't give you a higher benefit." }, { "id": "t1_oou0dm7", "author": "/u/Vigilante17", "updated": "2026-05-30T21:28:01+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/oou0dm7/", "content": "I mean you could just never take it and then die. Is that the most winning?" }, { "id": "t1_oou1jxs", "author": "/u/molehunterz", "updated": "2026-05-30T21:34:22+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/oou1jxs/", "content": "Leave part of your estate to social security?" }, { "id": "t1_oouk11v", "author": "/u/gumnamaadmi", "updated": "2026-05-30T23:19:52+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/oouk11v/", "content": "Exactly this. If one partner lives longer, that extra SS cushion will come handy.\n Nothing against those who want to take early. For some, that early withdrawal may be part of retirement equation. For us, our pre tax conversion to roth takes higher priority. We can live out of brokerage and retirement funds in the meanwhile." }, { "id": "t1_oovrvdk", "author": "/u/ThirstyWolfSpider", "updated": "2026-05-31T03:49:24+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/oovrvdk/", "content": "Unless there's been a recent change I haven't heard of, isn't 70 the latest you can usefully delay until?\n "The benefit increase stops when you reach age 70."" }, { "id": "t1_ooz4hsu", "author": "/u/FantasyFI", "updated": "2026-05-31T17:14:36+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/ooz4hsu/", "content": "Sounds like I was wrong in assuming that when 65 FRA changed to 67, 70 would change to 72.\n Which makes absolutely no sense. That should be one of the first changes they make when they try to solve the depleting social security assets.\n Doesn't really change the thought process. Delay to max the payout because a larger pension is a lower failure rate in a long life scenario. In a short life scenario, the decision has no affect on success rate.\n The thought process change is to consider if you want to maximize for success or maximize for payout. Because they aren't always the same." }, { "id": "t1_ootx5re", "author": "/u/capitalsfan08", "updated": "2026-05-30T21:10:52+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/ootx5re/", "content": "I think the problem with that is if the market behaves historically, it's irrelevant what you do with Social Security. It's when stocks tank when you want to have Social Security come in handy.\n I believe for a married couple the logic is for the lower earning one to take it at 62 and the higher earner to take it at 70 to get a blend of security and immediate cash intake." }, { "id": "t1_ooufuc2", "author": "/u/embourbe", "updated": "2026-05-30T22:55:10+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/ooufuc2/", "content": "Taxes can come into play as well. If signifcant retirement savings are in tax deferred accounts it can make more sense to both take at 70 to empty out as much as possible before hitting RMD age." }, { "id": "t1_ooty70h", "author": "/u/A70MU", "updated": "2026-05-30T21:16:21+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/ooty70h/", "content": "any math for single person?" }, { "id": "t1_ooul6cu", "author": "/u/PineapplesInMyHead2", "updated": "2026-05-30T23:26:44+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/ooul6cu/", "content": "https://opensocialsecurity.com/" }, { "id": "t1_oouux1y", "author": "/u/Actual_Load_3914", "updated": "2026-05-31T00:26:38+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/oouux1y/", "content": "It's all about your life expectancy if you don't need the money (the longer you are expected to live, the later you should claim SS). If you do need the money, then it depends on your own situation." }, { "id": "t1_oou80p3", "author": "/u/kjmass1", "updated": "2026-05-30T22:10:02+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/oou80p3/", "content": "I tend to agree- and use it as a SORR hedge. If you get an ‘08 style recession, start SS payments." }, { "id": "t1_ootz91x", "author": "/u/AlternativeSignal908", "updated": "2026-05-30T21:21:58+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/ootz91x/", "content": "There's literally no other way to get an inflation indexed life annuity. That's basically a unique insurance product or asset class. For anyone of limited means (i.e. for anyone who actually cares about SS decisions because they aren't really rich) and who faces longevity risk, it may not be worth the incrementally higher investment returns to take on the longevity risk." }, { "id": "t1_oou13df", "author": "/u/AlternativeSignal908", "updated": "2026-05-30T21:31:54+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/oou13df/", "content": "And waiting yields 8% annually risk free. That's pretty hard to beat." }, { "id": "t1_ooujfrs", "author": "/u/gumnamaadmi", "updated": "2026-05-30T23:16:18+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/ooujfrs/", "content": "Plus in our case, we plan to fill up 12% tax bracket for roth conversions. I have to figure out medicare thing though. It possible one of us continue to be insured through an employer sponsored plan so we may not care about irmaa hit." }, { "id": "t1_ooug1h6", "author": "/u/Megalocerus", "updated": "2026-05-30T22:56:17+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/ooug1h6/", "content": "You can actually get a deferred annuity with a fixed inflation factor. But social security as currently configured actually is significant even for people with other resources. Most states don't tax it, and 15% federally tax free is a nice reduction. We get 96K before taxes. That, of course, may change at any time." }, { "id": "t1_ootvbq8", "author": "/u/jakebase9", "updated": "2026-05-30T21:01:11+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/ootvbq8/", "content": "I’m taking mine at 62 and living off it until 65 when I should be getting a 12k/month pension. After 65 100% of SS is getting invested until I die." }, { "id": "t1_ootvu3w", "author": "/u/zekerthedog", "updated": "2026-05-30T21:03:53+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/ootvu3w/", "content": "Whyyyyy" }, { "id": "t1_ooune9t", "author": "/u/i_tyrant", "updated": "2026-05-30T23:40:15+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/ooune9t/", "content": "Maybe they have kids they want to leave it to?" }, { "id": "t1_oou9i3f", "author": "/u/Distinct-Sky", "updated": "2026-05-30T22:18:29+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/oou9i3f/", "content": "That's what I am doing too, claiming at 62 and investing if not needed." }, { "id": "t1_oou3wm7", "author": "/u/ducktapefactory", "updated": "2026-05-30T21:47:17+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/oou3wm7/", "content": "This. If you wait even until 63, it takes roughly 15 years before the total $ you got from social security exceeds taking it at 62. I'll take that gamble given the average lifespan." }, { "id": "t1_ooultm1", "author": "/u/PineapplesInMyHead2", "updated": "2026-05-30T23:30:38+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/ooultm1/", "content": "Average 62 year old lives for an additional 20-22 years. Average white collar high income worker who lived a low stress life after retiring early and didn't smoke (the overwhelming demographic of this subreddit) lives even longer.\n I take the opposite bet every time. If I only live to 75, my social security payment is irrelevant to my retirement. If I live to 95, I'll potentially need it." }, { "id": "t1_oovkhqh", "author": "/u/Ok_Prune_1731", "updated": "2026-05-31T03:00:47+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/oovkhqh/", "content": "Me personally im not even factoring in my social security in my retirement im 32 planning to retire at 50. By the time im 62 that shit might not even be around, if its still around cool ill take my 2grand a month and buy me a nice car with it." }, { "id": "t1_oou3x4p", "author": "/u/Educational-Fix5320", "updated": "2026-05-30T21:47:21+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/oou3x4p/", "content": "Not only the math on the numbers, but factor in that you'll have it before you die, all things considered, you might never make it to 70, anyway." }, { "id": "t1_ootvvx0", "author": "/u/2FeedRss", "updated": "2026-05-30T21:04:09+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/ootvvx0/", "content": "That maybe true but I would rather have “guarantee” increases for delaying" }, { "id": "t1_ootx4jg", "author": "/u/Most-Piccolo-302", "updated": "2026-05-30T21:10:41+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/ootx4jg/", "content": "I mean, thats basically what youre doing. Invest everything from 62 to 70 and then withdraw the delta each month at 70." }, { "id": "t1_oouiroz", "author": "/u/gumnamaadmi", "updated": "2026-05-30T23:12:19+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/oouiroz/", "content": "Yes. in our case, we want to use as much as of 12% bracket to lower our RMDs. By starting SS early, we end up losing lot more in RMDs." }, { "id": "t1_oounyp0", "author": "/u/lagosboy40", "updated": "2026-05-30T23:43:41+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/oounyp0/", "content": "I don’t know that I agree that taking SS at 62 and investing it for 8 years is better than waiting to collect at 70. The math I have seen says otherwise." }, { "id": "t1_oousi25", "author": "/u/ooo-ooo-oooyea", "updated": "2026-05-31T00:11:39+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/oousi25/", "content": "My buddy is doing something like this. I think he's sticking his SS payments straight into a Roth that he can raid once her retires." }, { "id": "t1_oout1k8", "author": "/u/BlazedAndConfused", "updated": "2026-05-31T00:15:01+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/oout1k8/", "content": "But it’s not meant to be invested but used which is the catch 22. Those that need it can’t invest it or wait for it" }, { "id": "t1_oouwj01", "author": "/u/Normal-guy-mt", "updated": "2026-05-31T00:36:28+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/oouwj01/", "content": "There are tons of variables in these calculations,bathe biggest one being life expectancy.\n The other big part, who has the discipline to actually invest that check. Oh, most of the time the calculators leave out the fact that 85% of that check is also taxable income.\n Most people filing early, believe they have to have that cash now to meet retirement goals.\n For couples especially, it often makes the most sense for the highest eagerness to wait until 70 if they can." }, { "id": "t1_oov8tev", "author": "/u/Quin35", "updated": "2026-05-31T01:51:34+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/oov8tev/", "content": "I asked my advisor about this since a friend and I have debated this. Each year one waits to collect, SS increases 7-8%. And then that payment is for life. While, yes, the S&P averages 10% or so, taking it at 62 and investing may not actually work out as favorably." }, { "id": "t1_ooxs8z8", "author": "/u/Bruceshadow", "updated": "2026-05-31T13:15:56+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/ooxs8z8/", "content": "The math ive seen says taking it at 62 and investing it can actually yield more over time\n I've seen the same, but never confirmed the math. have you come across something showing this confirmed?\n EDIT: found this" }, { "id": "t1_oozj16j", "author": "/u/tomato_torpedo", "updated": "2026-05-31T18:21:48+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/oozj16j/", "content": "Yes but at the end of their lives people are hesitant to gamble with their life savings, I think you can’t beat the increased payments without some aggressive funds" }, { "id": "t1_opg6fho", "author": "/u/rustvscpp", "updated": "2026-06-03T03:47:00+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/opg6fho/", "content": "This would defeat the entire advantage of SS - guaranteed income stream, regardless of market returns." }, { "id": "t1_oou088h", "author": "/u/risotto_patience", "updated": "2026-05-30T21:27:13+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/oou088h/", "content": "FIRE people slowly rediscovering why social safety nets exist is always interesting to watch" }, { "id": "t1_ooufkbp", "author": "/u/HunterBiden_yeah", "updated": "2026-05-30T22:53:31+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/ooufkbp/", "content": "they exist because the vast majority of people are idiots who don't plan for their future" }, { "id": "t1_oovdyl3", "author": "/u/Available-Ad-5670", "updated": "2026-05-31T02:22:30+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/oovdyl3/", "content": "Not idiots but MOST people are not in the same position" }, { "id": "t1_ooxth5x", "author": "/u/BigCSFan", "updated": "2026-05-31T13:22:54+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/ooxth5x/", "content": "Most people spend money instead of saving it. Don't have savings discipline" }, { "id": "t1_ooyfvsq", "author": "/u/Disasterous-Emu", "updated": "2026-05-31T15:18:28+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/ooyfvsq/", "content": "Most people don’t have financial education. Before I learned about investing I saved money every month but it certainly wouldn’t have put me in FIRE territory in a regular savings account." }, { "id": "t1_ootv9u3", "author": "/u/BugHistorical1614", "updated": "2026-05-30T21:00:55+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/ootv9u3/", "content": "It is an insurance plan, aka longevity-Income annuity." }, { "id": "t1_oou0f6g", "author": "/u/gnocchi_nightshift", "updated": "2026-05-30T21:28:15+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/oou0f6g/", "content": "Treating Social Security as insurance instead of your main retirement plan honestly makes way more sense mentally" }, { "id": "t1_oou8xo4", "author": "/u/AlwaysWanderOfficial", "updated": "2026-05-30T22:15:13+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/oou8xo4/", "content": "It’s what it was designed for. Our society got twisted and started looking at it as the retirement plan instead." }, { "id": "t1_oouvjzd", "author": "/u/WeakestLynx", "updated": "2026-05-31T00:30:33+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/oouvjzd/", "content": "I think this is why '"security" is in the name. It was meant to be just a backstop." }, { "id": "t1_oov8b0y", "author": "/u/portugalthewine", "updated": "2026-05-31T01:48:29+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/oov8b0y/", "content": "Technically the part of Social Security you refer to is called OASI - old age and survivor's insurance" }, { "id": "t1_oou1aa6", "author": "/u/SergeantPoopyWeiner", "updated": "2026-05-30T21:32:55+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/oou1aa6/", "content": "There are very compelling arguments (and math) to take social security as soon as you can. Don't wait. I highly recommend looking into this more." }, { "id": "t1_oou3hm0", "author": "/u/Holiday_Shelter3635", "updated": "2026-05-30T21:44:59+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/oou3hm0/", "content": "I’m with you.\n If you’re in a position to FIRE, then extra money at 62 seems like a no brainer. Why take $0 for 8 years so you can get a little more $$ monthly 96 months from now?\n I’d rather have 96 slightly smaller checks already in the bank versus 1 bigger check later on." }, { "id": "t1_oouc45z", "author": "/u/trautit", "updated": "2026-05-30T22:33:31+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/oouc45z/", "content": "Wouldn’t the extra income from taking SS early impact taxes on Roth conversions?" }, { "id": "t1_ooum9v7", "author": "/u/PineapplesInMyHead2", "updated": "2026-05-30T23:33:26+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/ooum9v7/", "content": "Yes. Age 65-70 (post medicare, pre social security) is, under current tax regime, the absolute best spot for Roth conversions since you are post ACA subsidies and pre Social Security tax torpedo." }, { "id": "t1_ooupcvw", "author": "/u/zamslam", "updated": "2026-05-30T23:52:18+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/ooupcvw/", "content": "It’s only “1 bigger check” if you die at 70. If you live longer, it’s potentially many more than 96 bigger checks?" }, { "id": "t1_oovldkq", "author": "/u/Ok_Prune_1731", "updated": "2026-05-31T03:06:11+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/oovldkq/", "content": "Not that much bigger though.\n My dad will get a extra 300 bucks a month waiting until 65 vs just taking it at 62. I told him to take it at 62. He could be dead by 70(which as a black male is not uncommon).\n The opportunity cost i feel is high on waiting. For most people the physical decline in your 60s is sharp. So get your money early and enjoy the last few good years you got left with a relatively(good body)" }, { "id": "t1_ooxf9ci", "author": "/u/Connect_Fox_8195", "updated": "2026-05-31T11:54:57+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/ooxf9ci/", "content": "I would advise people to model this out for themselves. Taking at 62 was originally my plan but given our family longevity and interest in maximizing Roth conversions, delaying as long as possible gave us a higher success rate." }, { "id": "t1_ootw7xg", "author": "/u/Future-Run-8601", "updated": "2026-05-30T21:05:54+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/ootw7xg/", "content": "Same. I assume it will actually be 70% of what the calculators say. Also, once you hit the 2nd bend point, there is really no reason to continue working for more SS." }, { "id": "t1_ootwfed", "author": "/u/SnipTheDog", "updated": "2026-05-30T21:07:00+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/ootwfed/", "content": "The payback when taking it at 70 vs 67 is at 99 years according to my calculations. Just stacking dollars, not investing the monies. Taxes and all other factors are not considered for the calc." }, { "id": "t1_oou3cr3", "author": "/u/AZJHawk", "updated": "2026-05-30T21:44:14+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/oou3cr3/", "content": "That’s my philosophy too. My wife has a very low earnings history, while I’ve maxed social security for 20 years.\n If she outlives me, I’d like her to have enough to be comfortable on without having to really worry about our investments (which will hopefully continue to grow for our kids), and maybe pay for a decent assisted living place if she needs it without dipping too much into our legacy." }, { "id": "t1_ooue7jt", "author": "/u/DreamerofDreams67", "updated": "2026-05-30T22:45:45+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/ooue7jt/", "content": "Wait until 70 n- not advice" }, { "id": "t1_oouosol", "author": "/u/TheLogicError", "updated": "2026-05-30T23:48:51+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/oouosol/", "content": "I would take it as early as possible 1. money invested earlier can yield more over time assuming a 7% compounded return. 2. How long you live is a question mark, what if god forbid you pass at 72? 3. I'm 31 now and don't really have confidence SS will exist in the current form we have today, if i was just turning 62 today i would start taking SS immediately. SS is largely going to insolvent in the next like 8 years unless they make drastic changes." }, { "id": "t1_oov3n2v", "author": "/u/MrMathamagician", "updated": "2026-05-31T01:19:15+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/oov3n2v/", "content": "I recall reading an article years ago now (not sure if they still allow it) that said all of these SS options discussed here are wrong. Here is the optimal strategy:\n\n- Take SS at earliest possible age and invest it.\n- At age 70 contact the SSA and tell them you changed your mind and actually want to take SS now at age 70\n- SSA allows you to do this (only once ever) and you can switch to the age 70 payment amount only if you pay back all of the money received prior to age 70.\n- Pay back Payments are nominal amount not adjusted for interest or inflation.\n- Payments received from age 62-70 are basically interest free loans that you don’t have to pay back if you die before 70.\n- At age 70 you receive maximum SS payments after enjoying the benefits of 8 years of interest free loans." }, { "id": "t1_oownayc", "author": "/u/mittenedkittens", "updated": "2026-05-31T08:02:16+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/oownayc/", "content": "You cannot do that any longer because that was an obvious way to game the system.\n Rules now:\n One retirement withdrawal in your lifetime, retroactivity limited to one year. You can withdraw a widow(er) (survivor) benefit without time limit, however." }, { "id": "t1_oovvtlv", "author": "/u/BusyCode", "updated": "2026-05-31T04:16:50+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/oovvtlv/", "content": "And if you don't live much longer after 70, you wasted benefits from 62 to 70 plus compound interest" }, { "id": "t1_oovx84u", "author": "/u/leondz", "updated": "2026-05-31T04:26:59+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/oovx84u/", "content": "it's intended as insurance, so that's a fine way to treat it" }, { "id": "t1_op4nfoa", "author": "/u/Educational-Gift-391", "updated": "2026-06-01T13:56:53+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/op4nfoa/", "content": "I would start planning on never seeing that money. It’s on track to be bankrupt by 2033 and the population is getting older not younger. This means that the young people paying the older generations SS checks right now won’t be there or won’t be enough.\n SS has some serious hurdles to face in the coming years" }, { "id": "t1_ootqifm", "author": "/u/lakeviewdude74", "updated": "2026-05-30T20:36:05+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/ootqifm/", "content": "The amount of people is this sub that completely discount and ignore social security is astonishing. It will not go away anytime soon. Sure there will have to be some changes (raise retirement age and raise cap on taxes). But there are some fairly easy fixes that can be done. I mean even if nothing is done in the next 8 years it will still pay around 80%. But bottom line is that too many people rely solely on social security for it to go away or even be reduced significantly. If that were to happen the country would be on the brink on collapsing. In which case it’s a crap shoot no matter where you have your money." }, { "id": "t1_oots9lc", "author": "/u/1-Dollar-Doge-Coins", "updated": "2026-05-30T20:45:10+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/oots9lc/", "content": "I think it’s more of a unique “feature” of FIRE to ignore SS because many here are aiming to retire 10, 15, even sometimes 20 years earlier than they would be eligible for SS. Therefore, you kind of need to make your numbers “work” without considering SS.\n There are obviously more complex calculations that might change your FIRE # based on expected SS in the future, but the math is simpler (and forces you to be a bit more conservative) if you don’t factor it in." }, { "id": "t1_ootyqc0", "author": "/u/astroK120", "updated": "2026-05-30T21:19:11+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/ootyqc0/", "content": "Exactly. Plus it works nicely as a buffer in case your calculations are off or you get some bad returns at the wrong time" }, { "id": "t1_ootzwk6", "author": "/u/todofwar", "updated": "2026-05-30T21:25:29+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/ootzwk6/", "content": "Yeah. And once you plan to be retired 25 years, you've basically planned indefinite retirement. So if your target age is 40, SS is completely irrelevant to you" }, { "id": "t1_ootti6w", "author": "/u/DoorFrame", "updated": "2026-05-30T20:51:41+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/ootti6w/", "content": "Not worried it will go away. Worried about means testing." }, { "id": "t1_oou18dt", "author": "/u/NuclearPopTarts", "updated": "2026-05-30T21:32:38+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/oou18dt/", "content": "It absolutely will get means tested." }, { "id": "t1_oouxerc", "author": "/u/olliemom200", "updated": "2026-05-31T00:41:55+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/oouxerc/", "content": "Me too." }, { "id": "t1_op10s8s", "author": "/u/Visible_Structure483", "updated": "2026-05-31T22:52:09+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/op10s8s/", "content": "I started mentioning this idea 9+ months ago, and got downvoted to oblivion. reddit was 100% sure they would not means test it ever and now here we are. it's showing up in more blogs, podcasts and whatnot.\n I was hoping to be wrong, but the winds are suggesting I am not." }, { "id": "t1_ootrnyv", "author": "", "updated": "2026-05-30T20:42:05+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/ootrnyv/", "content": "[deleted]" }, { "id": "t1_ootsb72", "author": "/u/this_guy9999", "updated": "2026-05-30T20:45:24+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/ootsb72/", "content": "I do 75% too" }, { "id": "t1_oott1sl", "author": "/u/everySmell9000", "updated": "2026-05-30T20:49:18+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/oott1sl/", "content": "I used 50%." }, { "id": "t1_ooug26s", "author": "/u/fredinNH", "updated": "2026-05-30T22:56:24+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/ooug26s/", "content": "Why? Thats not projected under any scenario." }, { "id": "t1_ootxdrd", "author": "/u/originalrocket", "updated": "2026-05-30T21:12:03+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/ootxdrd/", "content": "So do I." }, { "id": "t1_oou9bv9", "author": "/u/JayRoo83", "updated": "2026-05-30T22:17:30+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/oou9bv9/", "content": "Honestly, I discount it in when factoring bills and just kind of have it marked off as “fun money” for when I do finally start drawing it" }, { "id": "t1_ootwd0n", "author": "/u/pohart", "updated": "2026-05-30T21:06:39+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/ootwd0n/", "content": "I'm not sure it will. How much different is planning for 20y vs 40y of retirement?" }, { "id": "t1_oou8j9q", "author": "/u/Independent_Diet617", "updated": "2026-05-30T22:12:57+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/oou8j9q/", "content": "The 75% number differs even between publications. It may easily end up being lower in real life. They can also cap it at $50k for a very long time (the new proposal) like they are still holding the very old taxable SS limit. So I would definitely not use a number over $50k even 30 years in the future." }, { "id": "t1_oouic9d", "author": "/u/Harmonic-Hyena", "updated": "2026-05-30T23:09:47+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/oouic9d/", "content": "75% may be too high. The CBO recently predicted a shortfall of 28% for everyone. So that means you will get 72% if they do nothing about it.\n If social security is "reformed", present retirees will see no reduction, but that means the cost will be paid by someone else. The two ways to pay for it are to increase taxes or reduce benefits for people not retired. Sure there are also things like increasing FRA but that is just a sneaky way of reducing benefits. For example, if your FRA is now 67 but it is raised to 70, then if you still claim at 67, you will get a reduced benefit instead of a full benefit.\n Congress is adverse to raising taxes so it is more likely that there will be a reduction in benefits. But that means people who are presently working would likely see a reduction of MORE that 28% so that benefits for existing retirees are not cut.\n I personally plan for 50%. I think 60% is probably more accurate but I would rather error planning to have less SS and then be presently surprised if I have more, than have my whole plan fall apart if the number I was expecting is not achieved." }, { "id": "t1_ootrg14", "author": "/u/StoneMenace", "updated": "2026-05-30T20:40:56+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/ootrg14/", "content": "I use it as insurance for LTC and for big market dips/crashes.\n By not counting it into my fire number it means that if it is still around when I can start collecting then it can either be used for vacations, big purchases, whatever. Supplementing my retirement lifestyle.\n I am 40 years from being able to collect social security at 62. It is IMPOSSIBLE to know what kind of benefit would be provided in 40 years, maybe it will be reduced, maybe it will be gone. But that’s not something I want to count on and then I get to that age and end up having to work longer because I understimated" }, { "id": "t1_ooufyth", "author": "/u/fredinNH", "updated": "2026-05-30T22:55:51+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/ooufyth/", "content": "This is what people are saying. You say “if it’s still around”.\n It will be around. Changes of some sort will have to happen soon which may include a reduction for some people, but it will be around. It’s too big to fail." }, { "id": "t1_oouqb6m", "author": "/u/Grendel_82", "updated": "2026-05-30T23:58:08+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/oouqb6m/", "content": "You can do whatever you want now, when you are a decade away from actually retiring. The calculations are just ideas because your decision is still clearly and obviously: "I'm going to keep working and saving." But when you get closer, including it "as insurance" instead of in your base numbers just means extending your working years by a couple of years. It is that point in time where you actually have a decision to make when your calculations become relevant." }, { "id": "t1_ootqs4u", "author": "/u/Wooden-Broccoli-913", "updated": "2026-05-30T20:37:29+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/ootqs4u/", "content": "Thank you for being the voice of reason" }, { "id": "t1_oou6h54", "author": "/u/New_Feature_5138", "updated": "2026-05-30T22:01:20+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/oou6h54/", "content": "People have been telling me it will be bankrupt for years now. I assumed for a long time that it was just a well known fact and didn’t question it. Until I did.\n Last article I read said a conservative estimate is that people my age (mid thirties) can expect about 80% of the nominal number? But maybe we will get more who knows!" }, { "id": "t1_ooufw3k", "author": "/u/Ghost_man23", "updated": "2026-05-30T22:55:26+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/ooufw3k/", "content": "My sense is the only way I don’t get SS (I’m currently in my late 30s) is both the global economy would have to completely collapse and the U.S. would have to lose its status as the world’s super power (mostly in terms of trade). Don’t get me wrong, both are possible. But short of that, having a population of people over 65 who don’t have the financial means to support themselves would be more catastrophic than the alternatives. Not to mention that the people making the laws and all their friends will be beneficiaries of SS and motivated to keep it funded one way or another. But maybe I’m naive." }, { "id": "t1_ooxn7p0", "author": "/u/Environmental-Road95", "updated": "2026-05-31T12:46:21+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/ooxn7p0/", "content": "Social security will always be available at 100%. A political feature of spending is that you can’t do a “take away.” If you need to plan, forecast not being eligible until 70 as moving the age is a more palatable solution for elected officials." }, { "id": "t1_oou8ayt", "author": "/u/kjmass1", "updated": "2026-05-30T22:11:40+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/oou8ayt/", "content": "Bigger issue is if AI displaces X% of working income, now less people are paying in to the SS fund, and that will be a real problem." }, { "id": "t1_oots40y", "author": "", "updated": "2026-05-30T20:44:23+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/oots40y/", "content": "[deleted]" }, { "id": "t1_ooulb7w", "author": "/u/damiana8", "updated": "2026-05-30T23:27:32+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/ooulb7w/", "content": "I operate under the belief that I will be getting a much reduced social security income when it’s time for me to retire" }, { "id": "t1_oouok0w", "author": "/u/Rocktamus1", "updated": "2026-05-30T23:47:22+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/oouok0w/", "content": "No one knows where it’ll be so it’s even more conservative to pretend it won’t exist." }, { "id": "t1_oovma0t", "author": "/u/poop-dolla", "updated": "2026-05-31T03:11:54+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/oovma0t/", "content": "The earlier you retire, the less social security fits into the equation. You still need to make it to social security age with whatever you save, and a ten year horizon is very different from a 30 year horizon." }, { "id": "t1_oovxbl4", "author": "", "updated": "2026-05-31T04:27:41+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/oovxbl4/", "content": "[deleted]" }, { "id": "t1_oovygmi", "author": "/u/Zphr", "updated": "2026-05-31T04:36:11+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/oovygmi/", "content": "Rule 7/No Politics or circle-jerks - Your submission has been removed for violating our community rule against politics and circle-jerks. If you feel this removal is in error, then please modmail the mod team. Please review our community rules to help avoid future violations." }, { "id": "t1_oozeyy1", "author": "/u/yenraelmao", "updated": "2026-05-31T18:03:03+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/oozeyy1/", "content": "Yeah I didn’t take SS in my retirement calculations for years and found I’d have to work basically until my 60’s. Took it into calculation, like 60% to be super conservative, and it knocks almost a decade off. I don’t know what I’ll finally do but knowing I can probably retire a whole decade earlier is really good information and kind of the whole point of fire, to have more free time." }, { "id": "t1_ootu8i8", "author": "/u/that_yinzer", "updated": "2026-05-30T20:55:30+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/ootu8i8/", "content": "“That doesn’t make sense, 2014 wasn’t 12 years ago— fuck.”" }, { "id": "t1_oowwuwr", "author": "/u/gmdmd", "updated": "2026-05-31T09:27:51+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/oowwuwr/", "content": "yo wth.. 🤯" }, { "id": "t1_ootrr56", "author": "/u/gatorbone7", "updated": "2026-05-30T20:42:33+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/ootrr56/", "content": "Doesn’t that projection from SS assume you continue paying in until age 65?" }, { "id": "t1_ootuhuh", "author": "/u/K_A_irony", "updated": "2026-05-30T20:56:52+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/ootuhuh/", "content": "Yes the projection from SS assumes you continue to earn what you are earning today until you retire. You have to use separate more detailed calculators to determine what it will look like if you stop working earlier. Possibly the OP did that." }, { "id": "t1_oou4bto", "author": "/u/r0mpy", "updated": "2026-05-30T21:49:35+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/oou4bto/", "content": "This isn’t true. The SS website has a simple calculator that allows you to plug in estimated annual future earnings." }, { "id": "t1_oou4v4z", "author": "/u/K_A_irony", "updated": "2026-05-30T21:52:30+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/oou4v4z/", "content": "Yes .. the separate more detailed calculator is on the SS website. I didn't say it wasn't it just isn't the default." }, { "id": "t1_oouxflv", "author": "/u/covener", "updated": "2026-05-31T00:42:03+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/oouxflv/", "content": "Not even separate, the one on the ssa.gov "home" page has a field "I estimate my future yearly income to be" that defaults to your last reported earnings." }, { "id": "t1_oouheiy", "author": "/u/fredinNH", "updated": "2026-05-30T23:04:14+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/oouheiy/", "content": "I’ve only tried it on my phone and I’ve only seen it with an option to say what you expect future warning to be moving forward (as if you’re going to keep working until you collect) or no more earnings but you aren’t going to collect yet. I didn’t se a way to tell it you’re going to work 2 more years then wait 12 years to collect, for example, which is what I’m doing." }, { "id": "t1_ootwilx", "author": "/u/Dear_Treat2592", "updated": "2026-05-30T21:07:28+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/ootwilx/", "content": "The social security site gives you all of the projections (early, full age, late) and you can also adjust projected income." }, { "id": "t1_ootuw29", "author": "/u/Sometimes_I_Do_That", "updated": "2026-05-30T20:58:56+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/ootuw29/", "content": "There are online calculators like at ssa.tools where you copy & paste your earning record and it'll show you what happens when you retire early and stop contributing." }, { "id": "t1_oou4epc", "author": "/u/Victor_Appleton_II", "updated": "2026-05-30T21:50:02+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/oou4epc/", "content": "Most of us assume our 35 top earning years will be in our 50s and 60s, but that’s not always the case. Many FIRE advocates are making the max yearly SS contribution in their 20s thru 40s and early 50s. It doesn’t matter what age you earn the money. It just matters how much you earn in your top 35 years." }, { "id": "t1_oouz5sf", "author": "/u/oldsock", "updated": "2026-05-31T00:52:21+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/oouz5sf/", "content": "It actually matters quite a bit what year you make the income! Social Security is based on an inflation-indexed wages, i.e., you get more credit for wages early in your career. Source\n You get roughly 4X the "credit" for wages made when you are 21 compared to 60." }, { "id": "t1_oouh8gm", "author": "/u/gatorbone7", "updated": "2026-05-30T23:03:15+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/oouh8gm/", "content": "If you retire at 40 you didn’t have 35 earning years at all. You’re clocking some zeros in that case and the estimator is assuming you’ll keep earning as you have been." }, { "id": "t1_oous0ko", "author": "/u/Wooden-Broccoli-913", "updated": "2026-05-31T00:08:39+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/oous0ko/", "content": "The estimator is customizable" }, { "id": "t1_ootsejb", "author": "/u/_Mulberry__", "updated": "2026-05-30T20:45:54+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/ootsejb/", "content": "The reason I don't use it in my calculations is because I should hit FIRE around age 35-40, meaning 20-30 years of retirement before it kicks in. If my money is going to last me 30 years, it's going to last my lifetime. It'll be nice to have it when I get there, but I basically have to structure my portfolio without it. It's basically just the safety net for me to be able to use a 4-5% withdrawal rate at a super young age. It also complicates my calculations to include it, so leaving it out makes that easier too." }, { "id": "t1_oow9yk2", "author": "/u/zerkeras", "updated": "2026-05-31T06:08:00+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/oow9yk2/", "content": "Exactly. When it comes to early retirement calc, if you’re looking at 10-20 years early, social security simply comes into play too late to be of any real use. I don’t trust that I could blow any accrued retirement savings prior to SS income kicking in that SS will be enough by then. Or even be around by then." }, { "id": "t1_op46xy9", "author": "/u/Kooky_Dev_", "updated": "2026-06-01T12:29:35+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/op46xy9/", "content": "This is the key point. If you make it 30 years, on average your nest egg grew. So you don't need it, and if your waiting 30 years who knows if it will still be available or what it will look like. Projecting 30 years in the future for anything is hard enough why try to factor in SS payments." }, { "id": "t1_oou6415", "author": "/u/Late-External3249", "updated": "2026-05-30T21:59:20+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/oou6415/", "content": "As an elder millennial, I have seen enough once in a lifetime events that I cannot bring myself to trust that social security will be there. I save and plan as if it will be zero. Anything I get will be a nice bonus." }, { "id": "t1_oovdozu", "author": "/u/DrinkOk4862", "updated": "2026-05-31T02:20:52+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/oovdozu/", "content": "It will be there because killing it off would be political suicide for the House Reps and Senators involved in killing it. Same with Medicare. It might even be suicide for the respective political party.\n SS and Medicare WILL be there in 20 or 40 years. The real question will be what it looks like." }, { "id": "t1_ootr8vx", "author": "/u/postbox134", "updated": "2026-05-30T20:39:53+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/ootr8vx/", "content": "I am from the UK originally, and when I realised how much SS was in the US I couldn't quite believe it. The current UK State Pension is £12,547.60 per year or just under $17k USD. It does go up by at least 3% per year (or earnings or inflation) - at least for now - but that is so much less than the US SS even adjusting for cost of living." }, { "id": "t1_oottdjc", "author": "/u/Healthy_Razzmatazz38", "updated": "2026-05-30T20:51:00+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/oottdjc/", "content": "i think europeans think it a tiny payment because its called security and not pensions.\n i had the reverse, i was jealous of state pensions in europe until i looked it up. In the US assuming you're a place taht does a 401k or a pension which is about 75% of americans i think our systems a lot better." }, { "id": "t1_ootvltu", "author": "/u/postbox134", "updated": "2026-05-30T21:02:40+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/ootvltu/", "content": "Historically, a lot of employers would give you 'final salary' or 'defined benefit' pensions in the UK - basically what an American would call a pension. Now that's pretty much unheard of and it's all 'defined contribution' which is similar to a 401(k). It's now legally required for employers to contribute which is a good thing.\n Of course, the overall welfare state in the UK is larger, with things like the NHS - but guess what? The US has socialized healthcare for older folks anyway (Medicare).\n The other crazy thing is how generous public pensions are here in the US. It's not uncommon for people to do their 20 or 25 years in a police department, transit provider, teacher or whatever then retire off to do something else. That's simply unheard of back home. Public Sector pensions in the UK were historically generous, but never provided early retirement like that." }, { "id": "t1_ootw8w2", "author": "/u/Healthy_Razzmatazz38", "updated": "2026-05-30T21:06:03+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/ootw8w2/", "content": "being a small town cop or teacher in a rich town is insane. Work 20-30 years making ~100-120k, retire with a non taxed pension, still get social security, get a new job at 55, work for 10 year with double salary.\n and your job for 30 years was giving speeding tickets in a sleep town and teaching the best behaved kids with 100% job security\n the real mega diff between uk and us is doctors though. its like 5x the salary" }, { "id": "t1_oovnvq5", "author": "/u/Terrible-Design4545", "updated": "2026-05-31T03:22:25+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/oovnvq5/", "content": "As an American, this thread feels like a crazy revelation to me. I feel like I always hear about retirees living off of $700/m SS checks or something like that. Never occurred to me that that it could be decent money." }, { "id": "t1_op4s9o5", "author": "/u/Wide_Lock_Red", "updated": "2026-06-01T14:20:26+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/op4s9o5/", "content": "We just hear the worst stories more. Like someone who worked under the table for decades and never reported most of their income to the IRS will have a very low SS payout, for example." }, { "id": "t1_ootzse9", "author": "/u/Inevitable-Top1-2025", "updated": "2026-05-30T21:24:51+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/ootzse9/", "content": "I’m taking at 62 because of Mr. Death. I have five high-earner friends die recently: two died within two years of retirement, three died very close to retirement- they could have retired but kept working.\n What’s the point of waiting for higher pay if you never make it to that point?" }, { "id": "t1_oouamh4", "author": "/u/DawgCheck421", "updated": "2026-05-30T22:24:53+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/oouamh4/", "content": "I smoked 2 packs a day for 20 years. Crashed race cars for 2 decades and worked on floors for 3 plus decades and counting. Overweight almost all of my life. I am also insured on a term life policy that expires at 75.\n Wont be making it." }, { "id": "t1_ooxnjtm", "author": "/u/therealjerseytom", "updated": "2026-05-31T12:48:26+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/ooxnjtm/", "content": "I had a coworker of mine die mid-day, at work, not long ago. 54 years old. Really put things in perspective for wanting to retire early." }, { "id": "t1_ooy8pq9", "author": "/u/Inevitable-Top1-2025", "updated": "2026-05-31T14:43:27+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/ooy8pq9/", "content": "My condolences. Retire, if you can." }, { "id": "t1_ootq258", "author": "/u/Silver_Information69", "updated": "2026-05-30T20:33:45+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/ootq258/", "content": "I think people generally look as SS as a nice bonus if we make it to that age but not a guarantee. I have calculated it before too and was very surprised. I believe it is still taxed as income though." }, { "id": "t1_ootre5z", "author": "/u/Brief_Bar4993", "updated": "2026-05-30T20:40:39+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/ootre5z/", "content": "It is taxed as income but not on the full amount. The max you get taxed is up to 85% of your benefits, but could be much less depending upon your AGI." }, { "id": "t1_ootqbjl", "author": "/u/Wooden-Broccoli-913", "updated": "2026-05-30T20:35:06+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/ootqbjl/", "content": "Would you say the same about a government, military or corporate pension that you “earned”? “A nice bonus”?" }, { "id": "t1_ootrmk5", "author": "/u/StoneMenace", "updated": "2026-05-30T20:41:52+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/ootrmk5/", "content": "I count it as a bonus because we have no idea if social security will be around or if it will be reduced in 40 years (the age at which I can start collecting)\n That’s to far of a horizon to account into my calculations" }, { "id": "t1_ootrr5f", "author": "/u/Wooden-Broccoli-913", "updated": "2026-05-30T20:42:33+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/ootrr5f/", "content": "You could say the same about your stock portfolio growth." }, { "id": "t1_ootuulb", "author": "/u/_Mulberry__", "updated": "2026-05-30T20:58:43+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/ootuulb/", "content": "Stock portfolio is tied to the general economy - if it dies then we have bigger problems to worry about. Imo that would be the kind of thing that preppers are planning for, not the kind of thing FIRE folks plan for.\n SS is tied to public policy - the government could decide to phase that out in some way that screws me, an early retiree showing no income for the 20-25 years preceding retirement age, out of any sort of benefit.\n I guess what I'm saying is that I trust general industry to keep doing its thing WAY more than I trust the government." }, { "id": "t1_ooucdfe", "author": "/u/Weird-Echidna-5261", "updated": "2026-05-30T22:35:02+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/ooucdfe/", "content": "You can make that same argument for many potential policies that could pass. What if long term cap gains tax rates go way up, or unrealized gains tax or wealth tax. Or taxing 401k. Fire becomes impossible to plan for if you assume worst case about what governments could do." }, { "id": "t1_ooue9aa", "author": "/u/_Mulberry__", "updated": "2026-05-30T22:46:02+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/ooue9aa/", "content": "If I plan to have this SS benefit and base my FIRE on it, I could be running out of money at 60yo and then have the rug pulled out from under me.\n Or I can plan for my portfolio to last forever and SS can be the part that provides me a safety net against any of the other potentialities.\n I'd rather have unplanned benefits built in to counteract unplanned hardships." }, { "id": "t1_oov69og", "author": "/u/samsaraisdivine", "updated": "2026-05-31T01:35:34+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/oov69og/", "content": "Federally yes, to a degree, but most states don't. So that's a break." }, { "id": "t1_ootxerq", "author": "/u/jovialfaction", "updated": "2026-05-30T21:12:12+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/ootxerq/", "content": "Social security + mortgage paid off is a huge swing that usually comes in early 60s and makes me confident about a 4% safe withdrawal rate" }, { "id": "t1_ootqm7t", "author": "/u/newwriter365", "updated": "2026-05-30T20:36:37+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/ootqm7t/", "content": "Consider the proposed 20% reduction slated for 2032 in your calculations." }, { "id": "t1_ootqyt1", "author": "/u/Wooden-Broccoli-913", "updated": "2026-05-30T20:38:26+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/ootqyt1/", "content": "I’d worry about the AI bubble bursting (destroying my portfolio) long before I worry about my Social Security benefits being cut" }, { "id": "t1_ootrytz", "author": "/u/WhyDoesOklahomaExist", "updated": "2026-05-30T20:43:38+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/ootrytz/", "content": "Both may happen but you’re young enough to recover a bubble bursting by retirement." }, { "id": "t1_oouh2h4", "author": "/u/aronnax512", "updated": "2026-05-30T23:02:16+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/oouh2h4/", "content": "A recovery from a large drawdown is typically a few years, a haircut on SS is functionally indefinite." }, { "id": "t1_ootz9la", "author": "/u/moneyman74", "updated": "2026-05-30T21:22:02+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/ootz9la/", "content": "If I could bet for this 'not' happening I'd put quite a bit of money on it, absolute political suicide to whoever chooses this over just raising the cap and making a few other changes." }, { "id": "t1_oou4305", "author": "/u/newwriter365", "updated": "2026-05-30T21:48:15+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/oou4305/", "content": "I admire your optimism. As a GenX voter, I am pessimistic." }, { "id": "t1_ootsmja", "author": "/u/Healthy_Razzmatazz38", "updated": "2026-05-30T20:47:04+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/ootsmja/", "content": "theres kind of a shape to the funds flows, boomers overfunded it during their earnings years, and will over deplete it on the way out, then the spend is going to drop significantly as gen x takes over since their so much smaller and the largest generation ever (millennial will be in their high earnings years)\n structurally i think if you're old gen x you're in the most danger and if you're a millennial you're in great shape until you're very old. If you're in the generations behind millennial you're in trouble." }, { "id": "t1_ootvm41", "author": "/u/newwriter365", "updated": "2026-05-30T21:02:42+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/ootvm41/", "content": "I’m a 1965 GenX, so, yeah…one last FU from the Boomers as I exit the job market." }, { "id": "t1_ootryzn", "author": "/u/soyeahiknow", "updated": "2026-05-30T20:43:40+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/ootryzn/", "content": "I wouldn't take it at 70. You are a coin flip from being dead within 75 years old. I would take it at 62." }, { "id": "t1_ootyjn7", "author": "/u/Annonymouse100", "updated": "2026-05-30T21:18:12+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/ootyjn7/", "content": "Not if we are talking about standard two sided coin. The data doesn’t support a 50% chance of death in 5 years for those that make it to 70. If you make it to 62 yo, you are likely to live another 19-22 years. If you make it to 70 you have an annual probably of death of 0.0248 and you are likely to make it another 14-16 years. Only 1 in 10 women that make it to 70 will die before 75.\n https://www.ssa.gov/oact/STATS/table4c6.html\n Obviously you know your personal health and history best, but there is a reason actuary tables exist." }, { "id": "t1_oou6wb1", "author": "/u/soyeahiknow", "updated": "2026-05-30T22:03:42+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/oou6wb1/", "content": "I mean quality of life definitely goes down every year after 70. You might be the exception. But looking at pictures of my grandparents at my college graduation compared to my wedding 6 years later was night and day." }, { "id": "t1_oott52u", "author": "/u/mattkime", "updated": "2026-05-30T20:49:47+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/oott52u/", "content": "I think I'll abstain from that coin flip." }, { "id": "t1_ootta7t", "author": "/u/gatorNic", "updated": "2026-05-30T20:50:31+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/ootta7t/", "content": "That was my thought. I would rather take it early, milk it as much as I can since I am looking at it as bonus money." }, { "id": "t1_ooufj14", "author": "/u/BGOOCHY", "updated": "2026-05-30T22:53:18+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/ooufj14/", "content": "I see taking social security at age 62 as taking pressure off of my investment portfolio." }, { "id": "t1_op2qsps", "author": "/u/Mongoose_Inspector", "updated": "2026-06-01T05:36:28+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/op2qsps/", "content": "Same. I'm definitely taking social security at 62.\n Two of my grandparents didn't make it that far, and the only thing I inherited from one of them is the same health issue that ended one of them early.\n Besides, I have way more than enough saved." }, { "id": "t1_ootrv3r", "author": "/u/Mekrob", "updated": "2026-05-30T20:43:07+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/ootrv3r/", "content": "That number doesn't seem right. I believe by default the site shows you how much SS you would earn if you continue to work all the way until retirement age. You have to specifically change the setting to indicate you will be making $0 from here on out, assuming you were to quit working today." }, { "id": "t1_ootrzha", "author": "/u/Wooden-Broccoli-913", "updated": "2026-05-30T20:43:44+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/ootrzha/", "content": "I didn’t use that site, I used ssa.tools" }, { "id": "t1_ootsiyo", "author": "/u/Mekrob", "updated": "2026-05-30T20:46:32+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/ootsiyo/", "content": "Why wouldnt you use the official site that tells you exactly how much SS you have earned? I'm almost certain you are misunderstanding something, it's more likely you are around $22-25k in SS if you were to stop contributing today." }, { "id": "t1_oou9wq0", "author": "/u/mikethechampion", "updated": "2026-05-30T22:20:47+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/oou9wq0/", "content": "I am fairly sure OP just got their number from a site that assumed they would keep working and rather than admit their mistake is now trying to gaslight everyone. I just did the calc a couple of times and get around $25k-30k a year.\n Edit: OP is right, you have to put earnings = max SSA (186k this year), not 117k/year which is how I read the post. Sorry OP." }, { "id": "t1_ootz2ex", "author": "/u/moneyman74", "updated": "2026-05-30T21:20:58+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/ootz2ex/", "content": "Top 35 years are all that matter for SSA" }, { "id": "t1_ootxkvn", "author": "/u/farter-kit", "updated": "2026-05-30T21:13:06+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/ootxkvn/", "content": "If you die at 80, the difference in total money received between starting at 62 and starting at 70 is basically a rounding error.\n Die before 78? You get more money if you start receiving it at 62." }, { "id": "t1_oouajd8", "author": "/u/babies_galore", "updated": "2026-05-30T22:24:24+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/oouajd8/", "content": "Some of us unfortunately are expected to live past 100 by all actuarial projections. 😩 My grandparents who did no preventative care and had horrible diets lived until late 90s. Unfortunately my family members live forever and get dementia. The absolute worst.\n I am in my early 50s and have been a healthy vegetarian my entire life and exercise daily and get my annual screenings done. I also have no bad habits. No family history of heart disease or cancer and I have low blood pressure, not overweight, etc. So, I am screwed with a life expectancy of 102. Forget FIRE…I don’t know how I am going to afford memory care into my 100s!! I just don’t want to burden my only child.\n I asked my doctor if there was anything that could possibly take me out before age 90 because I don’t wanna live that long. And she said “Nope. Not with your family history and your health!”\n So I replied “well I guess I am taking up extreme sports in my 70s then!”\n And she laughed, thinking I was joking and said “you might as well, because nothing else is gonna take you out!”\n I wasn’t joking. I started working nights last year, partly because if you work nights, not only do I get paid more to help me save more for old age, but it also increases your chances of dying by every cause by 30%! So it’s like a win-win! But I doubt that it will affect my health. My father worked horrible jobs and shift work in 14 hour days and in the worst environments, including chemical plants wading around in carcinogens for years and smoked and drank and he’s still in perfect health in his late 70s. Lol\n So yeah, no WAY am I taking Social Security before age 70. Gonna need all the extra monthly income. I can get to make those assisted-living payments! Long-term care insurance is a joke. It doesn’t kick in until you’re almost dead already. Meanwhile, there could be an entire decade of your family having to pay for assisted-living and other caregivers and whatever to care for you before you get to the point that long-term care insurance will kick in. So I’m not wasting money on that." }, { "id": "t1_oovsr40", "author": "/u/skykitty89", "updated": "2026-05-31T03:55:25+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/oovsr40/", "content": "Im hoping A.S. is legal in the US by the time I'm 90 or have dementia, whichever comes first" }, { "id": "t1_oots26s", "author": "/u/Fair-Search-2324", "updated": "2026-05-30T20:44:07+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/oots26s/", "content": "Isn’t the unitary executive targeting Social Security?" }, { "id": "t1_ootzalu", "author": "/u/Shoddy_Ad7511", "updated": "2026-05-30T21:22:11+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/ootzalu/", "content": "If Social Security gets canceled there will be much bigger things to worry about than having enough money to survive to 90." }, { "id": "t1_ootw5r8", "author": "/u/zwizzardz", "updated": "2026-05-30T21:05:35+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/ootw5r8/", "content": "Yeah I’m assuming that the selfish boomer generation is going to get rid of it. I’ll stop paying my taxes until I get back what I’m owed if they do." }, { "id": "t1_ooujmah", "author": "/u/validelad", "updated": "2026-05-30T23:17:22+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/ooujmah/", "content": "Social Security might fail or have reduced benefits in the future, but that is one thing boomers wouldnt be pushing for. They will all be collecting until the die, why would they kill it?" }, { "id": "t1_ooung9w", "author": "/u/PineapplesInMyHead2", "updated": "2026-05-30T23:40:35+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/ooung9w/", "content": "Two tiered system. Maintain current payments for current retirees and gut them for millennials. The straightforward way to do that would be raise retirement age for those born after a certain year, which has happened before and has precedent." }, { "id": "t1_oouzxsq", "author": "/u/DigmonsDrill", "updated": "2026-05-31T00:57:02+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/oouzxsq/", "content": "No. It's the "bread" part of "bread and circuses." Remember "no tax on Social Security"?" }, { "id": "t1_ootq8j8", "author": "/u/Jojosbees", "updated": "2026-05-30T20:34:40+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/ootq8j8/", "content": "Just be aware that when one of you dies, the survivor gets only one social security benefit." }, { "id": "t1_oots4rc", "author": "/u/Ap43x", "updated": "2026-05-30T20:44:29+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/oots4rc/", "content": "At least it's the higher one." }, { "id": "t1_ootv0af", "author": "/u/CptMrPants", "updated": "2026-05-30T20:59:32+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/ootv0af/", "content": "Right, the surviving spouse will retain the higher benefit. Some couples may opt to take SS benefit of the lesser earner early and let the greater earner's benefit mature for that reason. Lots to think about as you get in range!" }, { "id": "t1_oovyus6", "author": "/u/Crashtag", "updated": "2026-05-31T04:39:09+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/oovyus6/", "content": "Didn’t realize that’s an option. I dig it." }, { "id": "t1_ootvg55", "author": "/u/gaoshan", "updated": "2026-05-30T21:01:50+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/ootvg55/", "content": "It’s funny because I have to work until at least 62 (currently 57) and when I plug in 4% from our investments plus our combined social security I realize that I might be pulling in $10,000 a month (and I will have paid off my house by then so bye bye mortgage payment). That’s quite a bit more than we spend now so really it’s kind of liberating to realize this." }, { "id": "t1_ootw41u", "author": "/u/Wooden-Broccoli-913", "updated": "2026-05-30T21:05:20+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/ootw41u/", "content": "4% is stupid conservative for exactly this reason." }, { "id": "t1_oouop1r", "author": "/u/maximusrtc", "updated": "2026-05-30T23:48:14+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/oouop1r/", "content": "Sounds like you might want to retire before 62!" }, { "id": "t1_oovj8of", "author": "/u/gaoshan", "updated": "2026-05-31T02:53:30+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/oovj8of/", "content": "No. I need the social security. Right now if I stopped working I would have about $4.5k a month. Insurance would eat up about $2k and my mortgage would eat most of the rest leaving me nothing to live on." }, { "id": "t1_oovoi1i", "author": "/u/maximusrtc", "updated": "2026-05-31T03:26:30+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/oovoi1i/", "content": "My point was you don’t “have to work until 62” if you’re projecting to have excess monthly income with your retirement withdrawals + social security at 62. Hypothetically you could retire at 59-60, withdraw more than 4% for a couple of years, then you’ll end up with slightly less than $10K total monthly at 62. Just an option!" }, { "id": "t1_ootsg59", "author": "/u/SouthOrlandoFather", "updated": "2026-05-30T20:46:08+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/ootsg59/", "content": "But if you retired today you wouldn’t have 35 years.\n The numbers you are looking at are assuming you are working until 62, 67 or 70. Unless they have updated their website." }, { "id": "t1_ootx5t7", "author": "/u/Frequent_Slip2455", "updated": "2026-05-30T21:10:52+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/ootx5t7/", "content": "This exactly what I asked the op. I bet he's not adding the zeros from 40 to full retirement age!" }, { "id": "t1_oousl6e", "author": "/u/Wooden-Broccoli-913", "updated": "2026-05-31T00:12:11+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/oousl6e/", "content": "Born in 1986\n First income of $60k in 2008\n Ramped up each year eventually hitting $117k in 2014\n Stayed at the max SS wage through 2026\n Zero income after that\n Start SS at age 70\n Put that into AI or any SS calculator and tell me what you get" }, { "id": "t1_ootsnrl", "author": "/u/Wooden-Broccoli-913", "updated": "2026-05-30T20:47:15+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/ootsnrl/", "content": "You don’t need 35 years" }, { "id": "t1_ootvnps", "author": "/u/SouthOrlandoFather", "updated": "2026-05-30T21:02:57+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/ootvnps/", "content": "So your saying the website now says “if you stopped today then…….”" }, { "id": "t1_ootw02o", "author": "/u/Wooden-Broccoli-913", "updated": "2026-05-30T21:04:46+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/ootw02o/", "content": "I’m saying you can adjust that slider to $0 future income" }, { "id": "t1_oovkvxn", "author": "/u/brianmcg321", "updated": "2026-05-31T03:03:08+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/oovkvxn/", "content": "I’m shocked how many people in the comments seem to have no clue how social security works." }, { "id": "t1_oovnv22", "author": "/u/Wooden-Broccoli-913", "updated": "2026-05-31T03:22:17+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/oovnv22/", "content": "It’s disappointing but not surprising" }, { "id": "t1_oowdnwv", "author": "/u/hanwagu1", "updated": "2026-05-31T06:39:42+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/oowdnwv/", "content": "and OP." }, { "id": "t1_oou3tq8", "author": "/u/Perbler", "updated": "2026-05-30T21:46:50+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/oou3tq8/", "content": "I’ve been thinking a lot about this as well. 401k contributions, + paid off mortgage, + social security will be more than enough for my family once we’re 62. That really simplifies FIRE for me because it’s not about making non-retirement accounts last for ever, it’s just about lasting 20-25 years.\n Obviously you still need your nest egg and to work out the math, but I think 4% and not accounting for SS is way too conservative. You’ll be working a corporate job for years longer than you need to. If things get hard you can always cut back expenses and tread water with barista fire. Even that worst case seems so much better than corporate stress to me." }, { "id": "t1_oou495k", "author": "/u/Perbler", "updated": "2026-05-30T21:49:11+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/oou495k/", "content": "From a practical sense, anyone optimizing their retirement has to think through SS period. RMDs kick in at 73, so it might make sense to take SS at 62 before you’re paying more in taxes 10 years later. I’m oversimplifying and definitely not an expert here, but I just want to hammer the point that it cannot be ignored." }, { "id": "t1_ooua1hf", "author": "/u/elbow-macaroni-42", "updated": "2026-05-30T22:21:32+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/ooua1hf/", "content": "Have you done the math correctly? 18 years of earnings, with 17 years of Zero earnings? And waiting for more years before drawing at 70 is a long time to live off of savings. Heck, that is still 19.5 years before penalty free IRA withdrawals. I haven’t done the math for that scenario myself so I won’t cast aspersions on your math, but that is a long time between now and then." }, { "id": "t1_oousjsy", "author": "/u/Wooden-Broccoli-913", "updated": "2026-05-31T00:11:57+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/oousjsy/", "content": "Born in 1986\n First income of $60k in 2008\n Ramped up each year eventually hitting $117k in 2014\n Stayed at the max SS wage through 2026\n Zero income after that\n Start SS at age 70\n Account for the social security bend points\n Put that into AI or any SS calculator and tell me what you get" }, { "id": "t1_oovy720", "author": "/u/PMmeHappyStraponPics", "updated": "2026-05-31T04:34:10+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/oovy720/", "content": "Yeah but I don't want to retire at 70.\n I'm a high earner, so I want to retire at 55.\n I also want to get my money back from social security. I paid in, and I want it back. So I don't want to wait until 70 because I don't want to accidentally leave money in the table for the government to keep.\n And so if this assumes that social security won't be further depleted to pay for another MMA ring in the white house front lawn." }, { "id": "t1_oovz8r8", "author": "/u/Wooden-Broccoli-913", "updated": "2026-05-31T04:42:04+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/oovz8r8/", "content": "I’m retiring at 40" }, { "id": "t1_oou8758", "author": "/u/Extra-Blueberry-4320", "updated": "2026-05-30T22:11:04+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/oou8758/", "content": "My plan is to not rely on it, but take it starting at 62 and using it to add to my portfolio. I figure if I plan for not using it, it will be bonus money later on. Since I don’t turn 62 for another 17 years, I sort of wonder if I’ll still get what the website calculates. I don’t have a ton of trust in the system." }, { "id": "t1_oou9ibi", "author": "/u/mikethechampion", "updated": "2026-05-30T22:18:32+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/oou9ibi/", "content": "Looks like you just grabbed the number from SS site without manually forcing “0s” for your retirement years. I came up with a smaller number. Double checking with AI:\n “The big error is the $45k benefit estimate — retiring at 40 with only ~18 years of earnings means roughly half of your 35-year calculation is zeros, which would likely put your individual benefit around $25k–$30k at age 70”\n OP you might want to redo the math here , either you missed some detail or I used the calculator wrong." }, { "id": "t1_oous43v", "author": "/u/Wooden-Broccoli-913", "updated": "2026-05-31T00:09:16+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/oous43v/", "content": "AI is wrong in this case, or you didn’t give it the full story.\n Born in 1986\n First income of $60k in 2008\n Ramped up each year eventually hitting $117k in 2014\n Stayed at the max SS wage through 2026\n Zero income after that\n Start SS at age 70\n Put that into AI or any SS calculator and tell me what you get" }, { "id": "t1_oouuseo", "author": "/u/mikethechampion", "updated": "2026-05-31T00:25:51+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/oouuseo/", "content": "Did you earn $117k or the max SS wage each year past 2014 (roughly $184k this past year)? That would change the math significantly and I think we are all assuming it’s roughly 117k. Also knowing all your earnings pre-2014 and if there are any years pre 2008, even small, on your table. But yes if you did max out the SS each year and then >80k past 2008 then it comes out to roughly 45k in which case I am wrong and apologize for rushing to judge here." }, { "id": "t1_oov493v", "author": "/u/DigmonsDrill", "updated": "2026-05-31T01:22:53+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/oov493v/", "content": "12 years of maximum earnings, by itself, is about $35,000.\n Math:\n Total income of $2,113,200 ($176,100, max for 2025, times 12).\n The AIME is $5,031 (2113200 / 35 / 12).\n This is a PIA of $2356 (using 2025 numbers).\n Delay to age 70 and that's a bonus of 24%, 8% per year, so 2356 * 1.24 = 2920\n That times 12 is $35,040." }, { "id": "t1_oouy2xk", "author": "/u/oldsock", "updated": "2026-05-31T00:45:51+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/oouy2xk/", "content": "Social Security calculations are somewhat counterintuitive. You get more "credit" for earning early in your career. They inflation adjust your wage (AIME - Averaged Indexed Monthly Earnings), so $100,000 made when you are 21 years old counts the same as $400,000 when you are 60. Combined with that, you get ~3X the credit for the first "chunk" of your earning over your entire career before the first "bend point." It drops in half again at the second bend point.\n All of that is to say if you earn a high wage in your 20s and 30s, there isn't much juice left to squeeze by replacing those "0s" late in your career." }, { "id": "t1_ooug858", "author": "/u/CleMike69", "updated": "2026-05-30T22:57:21+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/ooug858/", "content": "I never even planned on SS my numbers have never included it. Whatever I get from it is straight gravy" }, { "id": "t1_oouzym0", "author": "/u/Wooden-Broccoli-913", "updated": "2026-05-31T00:57:10+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/oouzym0/", "content": "Then you’re working too long" }, { "id": "t1_oovcyu3", "author": "/u/CleMike69", "updated": "2026-05-31T02:16:20+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/oovcyu3/", "content": "I’m 56 semi retired work like 2-3 hours a day I’ll fully retire next year. I’ll claim SS at 64 most likely. I wasn’t a high earner averaging 75k per year but managed to double my lifetime earnings into liquid assets that compound handsomely now. SS is a pittance to that passive gain from compounding" }, { "id": "t1_oovc6br", "author": "/u/Available-Ad-5670", "updated": "2026-05-31T02:11:39+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/oovc6br/", "content": "I wish this was true but I had looked into the calculator, your estimate assumes that you continue to max out your earning at the same rate so if you retire early, your payment will have a bunch of zeros In the years less then 35 years and payment becomes much lower" }, { "id": "t1_oovnxpv", "author": "/u/Wooden-Broccoli-913", "updated": "2026-05-31T03:22:46+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/oovnxpv/", "content": "I already set future years to zero income" }, { "id": "t1_oowlrs1", "author": "/u/hanwagu1", "updated": "2026-05-31T07:48:59+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/oowlrs1/", "content": "OP is using the 124% benefit increase waiting to claim from 67yo FRA to 70yo to offset the 18yrs of $0." }, { "id": "t1_ootrdpn", "author": "/u/A_Guy_Named_John", "updated": "2026-05-30T20:40:35+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/ootrdpn/", "content": "If I’m planning to retire 20-30 years prior to claiming social security, then I’m not going to rely on it. Yeah it will probably be a significant income source at age 70, but not really relevant to planning retirement in your 40s." }, { "id": "t1_ootrm1e", "author": "/u/Wooden-Broccoli-913", "updated": "2026-05-30T20:41:48+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/ootrm1e/", "content": "If you’re going to plan retirement in your 40s how could you not plan for what your income will be in your 70s? It comes with the plan, or are you just assuming you will die before 70?" }, { "id": "t1_ootsj90", "author": "/u/A_Guy_Named_John", "updated": "2026-05-30T20:46:35+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/ootsj90/", "content": "The biggest failure point for retirement is the first 5-10 years. A very bad sequence of returns in that period is basically the only (non-catastrophic) way an early retirement fails. If I retire in my 40s, my plan will either have succeeded or failed prior to becoming eligible for social security.\n It could save me on the back end if needed in a bottom 5% scenario, but if retiring at 40 the success of the plan is largely determined pre-SS. I don’t like the uncertainty of building a portfolio that draws down over 30 years then gets saved by SS." }, { "id": "t1_ootxu9p", "author": "/u/PandathePan", "updated": "2026-05-30T21:14:29+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/ootxu9p/", "content": "Is 45k payout based on working full 35 years or shorter period due to FIRE?" }, { "id": "t1_ooty9qb", "author": "/u/Wooden-Broccoli-913", "updated": "2026-05-30T21:16:45+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/ooty9qb/", "content": "It is based on retiring at 40" }, { "id": "t1_oouak1h", "author": "/u/jacknhut2", "updated": "2026-05-30T22:24:30+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/oouak1h/", "content": "Your calculation is based on the assumption that SS assume your wage state the same from now until 70. You need to manually put in all your future wages as 0 from this year on to get your true numbers, and let me give you a hint: it won’t be anywhere near $45k a year." }, { "id": "t1_ooutmug", "author": "/u/Wooden-Broccoli-913", "updated": "2026-05-31T00:18:43+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/ooutmug/", "content": "Born in 1986\n First income of $60k in 2008\n Ramped up each year eventually hitting $117k in 2014\n Stayed at the max SS wage through 2026\n Zero income after that\n Start SS at age 70\n Account for the social security bend points\n Put that into AI or any SS calculator and tell me what you get" }, { "id": "t1_oouddxh", "author": "/u/neoreeps", "updated": "2026-05-30T22:40:56+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/oouddxh/", "content": "I'll be taking it at 62 ,as early as possible. I'll spend it or reinvest it." }, { "id": "t1_ooupj2a", "author": "/u/fredinNH", "updated": "2026-05-30T23:53:22+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/ooupj2a/", "content": "I’m late to the party but I wanted to thank you for this post. Neither my wife or I ever earned six figures and our combined ss (her collecting at 62 and me at 70) will be almost $70k in 2026 if they fix it, if not still over $50k which is still quite a lot." }, { "id": "t1_oovh1nx", "author": "/u/TwittyParker", "updated": "2026-05-31T02:40:56+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/oovh1nx/", "content": "Assuming it’s not bankrupt by the time I retire (28yo atm)" }, { "id": "t1_oovpr8i", "author": "/u/Computerized-Cash", "updated": "2026-05-31T03:34:59+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/oovpr8i/", "content": "I wish we could just opt out of payroll taxes that we’ll never get to see. We’re just funding current retirees." }, { "id": "t1_ootu5fd", "author": "/u/GambledMyWifeAway", "updated": "2026-05-30T20:55:03+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/ootu5fd/", "content": "If social security is there when I’m of age then wonderful, but I’m not counting on it for my retirement." }, { "id": "t1_ootv550", "author": "/u/outrageousreadit", "updated": "2026-05-30T21:00:14+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/ootv550/", "content": "I always knew that, but I also don’t trust social security or pension plan 100%. They can always change the rules on us. Out of our control. (That’s just the pessimist in me.)\n Realistically speaking, and logically speaking, in most cases, it’ll be there. And it’s comforting to know, we don’t actually need to save as much as we think if we have these stable income after leaving our jobs." }, { "id": "t1_ootz9ew", "author": "/u/millenialismistical", "updated": "2026-05-30T21:22:01+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/ootz9ew/", "content": "Too many zeros if you retire early, though😓" }, { "id": "t1_oouseig", "author": "/u/Wooden-Broccoli-913", "updated": "2026-05-31T00:11:03+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/oouseig/", "content": "Nope" }, { "id": "t1_ooutw5h", "author": "/u/millenialismistical", "updated": "2026-05-31T00:20:22+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/ooutw5h/", "content": "I guess your point is that if you earn at or near the max for enough years the effect of the zero years is minimal. I did the math for myself and the difference between working another 10 years and working 0 more years came out to 1-2k a month depending on when I take benefits." }, { "id": "t1_ootzdiy", "author": "/u/HugeRoof", "updated": "2026-05-30T21:22:37+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/ootzdiy/", "content": "I discount SS to zero. I make all my plans based on never collecting, even though I have been max contribution for a very long time and will start collecting in about 20 years.\n I'm structuring and front loading costs so that I don't even have to rely on market returns and can do 0% withdrawal based purely on passive income sources.\n In two years our minimum annual spend will be very low with minimal insurance and tax overhead, paid for home and electric vehicle, more solar and battery than we need, etc.\n That leaves us with the cost of private health care, food, private school, and other utilities in Eastern Europe. So even on an extreme market downturn, we just don't travel as much for a year." }, { "id": "t1_oou7h5z", "author": "/u/trossi", "updated": "2026-05-30T22:06:58+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/oou7h5z/", "content": "That’s all your non discretionary spend today in 2026 dollars but you will be receiving it in approximately 2056 dollars. Inflation is a bitch." }, { "id": "t1_ooukd30", "author": "/u/moneyman74", "updated": "2026-05-30T23:21:51+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/ooukd30/", "content": "Social security is inflation adjusted every year" }, { "id": "t1_oou8tc9", "author": "/u/kjmass1", "updated": "2026-05-30T22:14:32+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/oou8tc9/", "content": "Nobody in Congress wants to touch SS with a 10’ pole. It’s politically toxic and you’ll never win the PR points. And it affects the most important voting block. So expect them to do the bare minimum to keep it going." }, { "id": "t1_ooulhx9", "author": "/u/Mad_Martigan1984", "updated": "2026-05-30T23:28:40+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/ooulhx9/", "content": "I’m 42. Given the fiscal realities of the US entitlement system and demographicsI do not expect social security to be there in any meaningful way for me (most likely outcome in my view is that retirement age will go up and benefits will be severely means tested)." }, { "id": "t1_ooupbrh", "author": "/u/DillyThrowAwayCPAjh", "updated": "2026-05-30T23:52:06+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/ooupbrh/", "content": "Ok sweet everyone needs to just earn 186k and have a spouse that does too. For the past 12 years since age 28" }, { "id": "t1_oov1dwk", "author": "/u/Wooden-Broccoli-913", "updated": "2026-05-31T01:05:50+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/oov1dwk/", "content": "Never said I wasn’t rich" }, { "id": "t1_oov0njv", "author": "/u/Initial_Enthusiasm36", "updated": "2026-05-31T01:01:23+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/oov0njv/", "content": "I am not far off from you age wise, a bit younger. But most financial people ive spoken to have said, dont even factor SS into retirement, its such an uncertainty if it will even exist or be the same program by the time we hit the age to collect." }, { "id": "t1_oov5kou", "author": "/u/Outrageous_Turn_3900", "updated": "2026-05-31T01:31:08+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/oov5kou/", "content": "You're making the biggest mistake most people make. You're assuming you're going to make it to 70 years old." }, { "id": "t1_oov78ci", "author": "/u/Psynaut", "updated": "2026-05-31T01:41:45+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/oov78ci/", "content": "Your number seems high to me. Are you getting this off your Social Security Statement on their website? You didn't miss the text that says:\n These personalized estimates are based on your earnings to date and assume you continue to earn $176,100 per year until you start your benefits.\n Maybe I am wrong, but I have a lot more years than you and will earn the same amount as you at 70, but I need to keep earning the max amount for many more years to get there.\n Or is that a future number accounting for 30 years of additional inflation increases, which if discounted back 30 years at a mere 3% discount rate would still only equal $18,500 in today's dollars. Increase that discount rate to 4% and you have only $13,880 in today's dollars.\n Either way, not what you sound like you are expecting. If it is saying that is in today's dollars if you were already 70 and retired today, then I guess I am mistaken and that is great, but the average SS payment even today is only about $25,000 and your income doesn't strike me as exceptionally above average, so I am guessing it is one of the two situations I put forth." }, { "id": "t1_oovo95m", "author": "/u/Wooden-Broccoli-913", "updated": "2026-05-31T03:24:52+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/oovo95m/", "content": "It’s neither of those two situations. It is exactly what I described. I already set future years’ income to zero" }, { "id": "t1_oov80yb", "author": "/u/ActiveMindGamer", "updated": "2026-05-31T01:46:44+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/oov80yb/", "content": "DO NOT COUNT ON SOMEONE ELSE TAKING CARE OF YOU! “IF” SS goes under, what do you do?" }, { "id": "t1_oovpeti", "author": "/u/Wooden-Broccoli-913", "updated": "2026-05-31T03:32:39+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/oovpeti/", "content": "The stock market will go to zero before social security does" }, { "id": "t1_oovaclg", "author": "/u/Technical-Fly-6835", "updated": "2026-05-31T02:01:00+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/oovaclg/", "content": "If I paid for it, why should not I count on it ? The idea that we should not count on govt to take care of us or should not count on govt at all is what makes govt corrupt and unaccountable. Govt is for people by people of people. So why should not i count on it ? Why should I let it off the hook?" }, { "id": "t1_oovjjq2", "author": "/u/upside_down_frown1", "updated": "2026-05-31T02:55:12+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/oovjjq2/", "content": "The system has to continue working. Too many people who champion for all these social programs means less people working, meaning less money going into that pot." }, { "id": "t1_oox9a5l", "author": "/u/Technical-Fly-6835", "updated": "2026-05-31T11:11:21+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/oox9a5l/", "content": "Why does championing for social programs mean less people working? Why do we assume that people are lazy if we have social programs?" }, { "id": "t1_oox9tnj", "author": "/u/upside_down_frown1", "updated": "2026-05-31T11:15:25+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/oox9tnj/", "content": "Explain why people who have 2 kids and are on foodstamps and struggling have a 3rd. Probably that same logic." }, { "id": "t1_oows0by", "author": "/u/PatternMediocre2357", "updated": "2026-05-31T08:44:09+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/oows0by/", "content": "The government deducts Medicare payments from your social security check and an income based surcharge (IRMAA). I’m paying $500/mo. By the time you retire, it could be a lot more. They’ll sell it as a tax on the rich, but it will cut into middle class retirees as the system collapses under its own weight" }, { "id": "t1_oowz28d", "author": "/u/oriri_ex_cinere", "updated": "2026-05-31T09:47:15+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/oowz28d/", "content": "Does anyone on Fire subscribe to the idea that social security may default (effectively default, even if not literally) in near future and thus may be unreliable to bank on?\n I don’t know enough to reasonably predict that possibility. But I do know the fiscal realities for western governments mean something must eventually give" }, { "id": "t1_oox2r4h", "author": "/u/bunrieu4BLD", "updated": "2026-05-31T10:18:36+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/oox2r4h/", "content": "the copium is STRONG in this one" }, { "id": "t1_ooxe098", "author": "/u/Visual-Tap-5466", "updated": "2026-05-31T11:46:15+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/ooxe098/", "content": "I think you may have that wrong. Let me be clear “may have it wrong”. I am not 100% sure but I don’t think you would get 45k if you retired at 40 and began collecting at 70. The projections that are shown in your SS statements are predicated on you continuing to work at the maximum wage until you reach retirement age and then hold off collecting until you are 70." }, { "id": "t1_ooy3eh5", "author": "/u/Wooden-Broccoli-913", "updated": "2026-05-31T14:16:30+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/ooy3eh5/", "content": "The numbers are correct and your intuition that it is wrong is exactly why I made this post. Social Security is very generous to rich people. I didn’t use the SS statement, I used the SS website and zero’d out future years’ income." }, { "id": "t1_oozms05", "author": "/u/Fireat40dude", "updated": "2026-05-31T18:39:27+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/oozms05/", "content": "That’s being hopeful that social security sticks around until ur 70" }, { "id": "t1_ootrgkj", "author": "/u/Dos-Commas", "updated": "2026-05-30T20:41:01+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/ootrgkj/", "content": "You can't predict what's gonna happen in the next 30 years so it's better to be conservative for a reduction in payout." }, { "id": "t1_ootrtyn", "author": "/u/Wooden-Broccoli-913", "updated": "2026-05-30T20:42:57+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/ootrtyn/", "content": "Why don’t you assume 0% stock market growth while you’re at it" }, { "id": "t1_oou7tg8", "author": "/u/Dos-Commas", "updated": "2026-05-30T22:08:53+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/oou7tg8/", "content": "Already accounted for a 50% stock market crash for the next 10 years as part of my worse case." }, { "id": "t1_oottjt6", "author": "/u/thereddituserusa", "updated": "2026-05-30T20:51:55+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/oottjt6/", "content": "Do consider estimated reductions in SS, about 23-28% in next 10 yrs, unless there is a fix for current system.\n https://fortune.com/2026/04/21/what-happens-if-nothing-is-done-to-fix-social-security-by-2032/" }, { "id": "t1_ooturo7", "author": "/u/pintopedro", "updated": "2026-05-30T20:58:17+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/ooturo7/", "content": "And that money invested wisely would be substantially more almost every time." }, { "id": "t1_ootwi70", "author": "/u/Phillyjebus", "updated": "2026-05-30T21:07:24+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/ootwi70/", "content": "Are you sure the calculator doesn’t assume you work until 65 with current earnings? You need to manually adjust that in the calculator." }, { "id": "t1_ootwleq", "author": "/u/VampireEmpire__", "updated": "2026-05-30T21:07:52+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/ootwleq/", "content": "How do you determine what your SS benefit will be?" }, { "id": "t1_oov4yw7", "author": "/u/oldsock", "updated": "2026-05-31T01:27:17+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/oov4yw7/", "content": "Make an account on https://www.ssa.gov/\n Check that they have your earnings correct. You can look at the "default" (assuming you'll continue making the same wage you made in 2025 until you retire) or adjust based on an average future wage by entering a new number in "I estimate my future yearly income to be"" }, { "id": "t1_oov6d95", "author": "/u/VampireEmpire__", "updated": "2026-05-31T01:36:12+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/oov6d95/", "content": "Thank you, oldsock! I will look at this tomorrow." }, { "id": "t1_ootwrad", "author": "/u/dirtygreysocks", "updated": "2026-05-30T21:08:44+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/ootwrad/", "content": "Your numbers seem inflated. Id check them on ssa." }, { "id": "t1_ootx34x", "author": "/u/Wooden-Broccoli-913", "updated": "2026-05-30T21:10:29+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/ootx34x/", "content": "This is the whole point of the post. It pays more than you think!" }, { "id": "t1_ooubix3", "author": "/u/dirtygreysocks", "updated": "2026-05-30T22:30:04+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/ooubix3/", "content": "We have a much higher income for more years and those are not our numbers. And no zeros. I think you need to go to the real ssa site." }, { "id": "t1_oov6l8y", "author": "/u/oldsock", "updated": "2026-05-31T01:37:37+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/oov6l8y/", "content": "Fair or not, how much you earn is just as important as when you earned it. Since the wage is indexed for the calculation (AIME), dollars earned early in your career are counted more than dollars earned late in your career (~4X more at 21 than 60).\n If you went to graduate school and had low earnings in your 20s, your career earnings could be higher, but your benefits would be lower. Sounds like OP was maxing out ~6 years after graduating college, that's a lot of dollars "early" in the formula." }, { "id": "t1_ooty34w", "author": "/u/FIContractor", "updated": "2026-05-30T21:15:47+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/ooty34w/", "content": "1) I agree with you, 2) for the OP or anyone, make sure you’re accounting for $0 earning years in the future, because the default calculation on the social security website assumes you continue earning the amount they have most recently recorded and 3) if you retire young enough (like in your 30s or 40s) then based on the 3-4% “rule” the amount needed to reliably last the next 25-35 years until you’re eligible for social security isn’t that much less than the amount needed to last to reliably last pretty much indefinitely (or at least until you’re dead). Social security is nice “longevity insurance” and should be a great comfort against having to eat dog food in your golden years if you hit a bad sequence of returns, but it might not make that big a difference in the actual calculations unless you’re an older early retiree." }, { "id": "t1_ootym9t", "author": "/u/G4sp22whore", "updated": "2026-05-30T21:18:35+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/ootym9t/", "content": "Counting on a payout that's three decades away feels like a massive gamble when the goal is retiring before fifty. It’s nice math on paper but I’d rather have the money compounding in my own accounts than wait for a government check that might be subject to whatever policy changes happen between now and then." }, { "id": "t1_oou01lc", "author": "/u/cwcoleman", "updated": "2026-05-30T21:26:14+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/oou01lc/", "content": "Yeah, I'm in a similar situation as you.\n if I wait until 70:\n\n- $3700 a month / $45K a year if I stop working now\n- $5000 a month / $60K a year if I continue to work until 70 or if I pull early at 62 - the numbers are:\n\n- $2100 a month / $25K a year if I stop working now\n- $2800 a month / $34K a year if I continue to work until 70" }, { "id": "t1_oou28vt", "author": "/u/NeitherCatNorFowl", "updated": "2026-05-30T21:38:09+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/oou28vt/", "content": "I was pleasantly surprised too. I never discounted SS but had been using 2K a month as a placeholder in fire calculators. I finally checked SS and SS Tools sites. If I work at my 2025 salary until FRA, I'll receive about 4400 monthly. That won't happen since I was DOGEd from my job. Stopping work this year, it would drop to 3600. And I discount that number by 25% so now I use 2700 in fire calculations." }, { "id": "t1_oou0o9g", "author": "/u/bb0110", "updated": "2026-05-30T21:29:38+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/oou0o9g/", "content": "For a high earner the delta from what you would have if you kept that money and put it in a s and p 500 etf and what you actually get from SS is fucking staggering." }, { "id": "t1_oou1138", "author": "/u/Master-Helicopter-99", "updated": "2026-05-30T21:31:33+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/oou1138/", "content": "It jumps if you are retirement age and have a child under 18 until they turn 18. I only maxed 8-10 years. My reduced payout at 62 plus child benefit until 18 plus caregiver benefit (mom who is a SAHM) gives me a monthly benefit of right at $5,500 or $66,000 a year. Basically I can collect 180% of my full retirement age benefit. He will be 6 when I turn 62 so we will get to draw basically another $3k a month for 12 years. Then I drop back to $2,500. For me it's worth drawing at 62 because I will never earn back the $432,000 extra that I will draw over those 12 years. You do have to draw to get the other child and caregiver benefits, not just be eligible to draw." }, { "id": "t1_oou1q0q", "author": "/u/MegaGreesh", "updated": "2026-05-30T21:35:16+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/oou1q0q/", "content": "A large portion of the FIRE community are functionally innumerate and suffer financial anxiety. They can’t cope with anything other than a 4% rule." }, { "id": "t1_oou6x6d", "author": "/u/ClubZealousideal9784", "updated": "2026-05-30T22:03:50+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/oou6x6d/", "content": "How much you make/save doesn't matter if you keep up with the Joneses and then richer people when you hit that goal." }, { "id": "t1_oouudmf", "author": "/u/Wooden-Broccoli-913", "updated": "2026-05-31T00:23:24+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/oouudmf/", "content": "Truer words have never been said" }, { "id": "t1_oou5q34", "author": "/u/jonportnoy11", "updated": "2026-05-30T21:57:13+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/oou5q34/", "content": "A relative and his wife (69 and 70) will start collecting SS next month, a yearly total about 100k." }, { "id": "t1_oou7y5j", "author": "/u/Imlooloo", "updated": "2026-05-30T22:09:38+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/oou7y5j/", "content": "IIRC the max wage that SS will consider in your 35 year average these days has been adjusted yearly and is now $184,500." }, { "id": "t1_ooubjwe", "author": "/u/CarrsCurios", "updated": "2026-05-30T22:30:13+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/ooubjwe/", "content": "Im also past the cap — I hope it’s still solvent by the time I need it" }, { "id": "t1_ooufhbv", "author": "/u/atomicnutjob", "updated": "2026-05-30T22:53:02+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/ooufhbv/", "content": "Is that 45 in 2026 dollars" }, { "id": "t1_oouk2zi", "author": "/u/moneyman74", "updated": "2026-05-30T23:20:11+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/oouk2zi/", "content": "SS is inflation adjusted every year" }, { "id": "t1_oouo7vq", "author": "/u/atomicnutjob", "updated": "2026-05-30T23:45:17+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/oouo7vq/", "content": "Yes I know. I am asking if the 45k is 2026 dollars" }, { "id": "t1_ooufi9f", "author": "/u/PhillyPilot", "updated": "2026-05-30T22:53:11+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/ooufi9f/", "content": "Don’t count on that full payout still being around. I’ll be happy if I even get 50% of that, but honestly I’m planning to get $0 as part of my retirement strategy" }, { "id": "t1_oouhlhw", "author": "/u/Top-Establishment918", "updated": "2026-05-30T23:05:23+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/oouhlhw/", "content": "I’ve been hearing SS will be bankrupt since I was 25. I’m 61 now:)" }, { "id": "t1_ooupdhb", "author": "/u/Secret_Computer4891", "updated": "2026-05-30T23:52:24+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/ooupdhb/", "content": "I never did any calculations or even looked at my estimate until about 5 years ago. It was a lot more than I expect. Rough napkin math is that it should cover about 100% of our core budget. Our plan is for her to draw at 62, me to defer until 70. Then, when I turn 70 when our income gets a big boost, we'll start making gifts to start passing our assets to the kids." }, { "id": "t1_oouzrki", "author": "/u/Wooden-Broccoli-913", "updated": "2026-05-31T00:56:00+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/oouzrki/", "content": "Exactly. People are working too long because they don’t get this" }, { "id": "t1_ooupdze", "author": "/u/solitudefinance", "updated": "2026-05-30T23:52:29+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/ooupdze/", "content": "18 years working at the max with another 17 working at $0 is like working 35 at about half of the max....and this is 6 more years of max than what you said you did. That should be about $3,200/month at age 70, no? I think your $45k math is off a bit." }, { "id": "t1_oouuwvx", "author": "/u/Wooden-Broccoli-913", "updated": "2026-05-31T00:26:36+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/oouuwvx/", "content": "Born in 1986\n First income of $60k in 2008\n Ramped up each year eventually hitting $117k in 2014\n Stayed at the max SS wage through 2026\n Zero income after that\n Start SS at age 70\n Account for the Social Security bend points\n Put that into AI or any SS calculator and tell me what you get" }, { "id": "t1_oovuf4u", "author": "/u/solitudefinance", "updated": "2026-05-31T04:07:02+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/oovuf4u/", "content": "Apparently a good PSA for me, then. I didn't adjust past max limits up to current dollars." }, { "id": "t1_oousiag", "author": "/u/Killingtimebrowsing", "updated": "2026-05-31T00:11:41+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/oousiag/", "content": "Social security will be bankrupt by the time I retire I won't even consider that income in my plans" }, { "id": "t1_oov7yt7", "author": "/u/LanguageNo8415", "updated": "2026-05-31T01:46:21+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/oov7yt7/", "content": "0k guaranteed before touching investments is actually kinda insane when you think about it. Thats a huge psychological difference in retirement planning" }, { "id": "t1_oovejl4", "author": "/u/something-behind-him", "updated": "2026-05-31T02:25:59+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/oovejl4/", "content": "Sounds like you expected less" }, { "id": "t1_oovq9lp", "author": "/u/ThomasSulivan", "updated": "2026-05-31T03:38:28+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/oovq9lp/", "content": "Are you seriously relying on soc sec for 30 years in the future?" }, { "id": "t1_oovuxc4", "author": "/u/PsychologyMediocre99", "updated": "2026-05-31T04:10:32+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/oovuxc4/", "content": "Looool don’t get too ahead of yourself. You’ve still got a long way and there are no guarantees it will still even be around" }, { "id": "t1_oow8y6m", "author": "/u/per54", "updated": "2026-05-31T05:59:32+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/oow8y6m/", "content": "You’re assuming it’ll be more than 0?" }, { "id": "t1_oowdxis", "author": "/u/Fair_Influence_8124", "updated": "2026-05-31T06:42:00+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/oowdxis/", "content": "Ya but big catch is having to wait to 70. If you even live that long." }, { "id": "t1_oowmjqn", "author": "/u/Smooth_Draft4552", "updated": "2026-05-31T07:55:42+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/oowmjqn/", "content": "It's bold of everyone here to assume SS will be around in decades or at least pay out as much" }, { "id": "t1_ooxhc98", "author": "/u/Difficult-Repair1295", "updated": "2026-05-31T12:08:59+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/ooxhc98/", "content": "Account for 80% or whatever it tells you. The social security Ponzi scheme goes negative in 2032." }, { "id": "t1_ooy4198", "author": "/u/Traditional_Cat6874", "updated": "2026-05-31T14:19:47+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/ooy4198/", "content": "When your 70 90k wont buy 90k . Factor in your inflation over the years till 70 and the annual cola wont from SS won't be close to covering inflation." }, { "id": "t1_ooy499y", "author": "/u/Wooden-Broccoli-913", "updated": "2026-05-31T14:20:55+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/ooy499y/", "content": "Did you not know that SS adjusts for inflation?" }, { "id": "t1_op30yr6", "author": "/u/Bionic_back227", "updated": "2026-06-01T07:01:44+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/op30yr6/", "content": "I was a high earner before becoming disabled at 42. After a long process, I wasn’t approved for SSDI until August of last year. My benefit was about $3,700 per month before my Medicare premium started this month, and my son also receives an auxiliary benefit.\n I’m grateful for the support, but the reality is that my pre-disability income was roughly five times higher than my SSDI benefit. Thankfully, my wife and I had spent years saving and investing before my health declined. We had already reached financial independence, have a rental property that generates income, and additional disability coverage that helps bridge the gap.\n I don’t share this to complain—quite the opposite. I’m thankful for SSDI and for the safety nets we put in place while I was healthy. Disability can happen to anyone, and it’s a reminder of how important it is to prepare for the unexpected while you’re able." }, { "id": "t1_op45cm9", "author": "/u/LibrarySpiritual5371", "updated": "2026-06-01T12:20:17+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/op45cm9/", "content": "If you retire today you will nto get $45k at 70. The social security forecast is based on you continuing to work until FRA." }, { "id": "t1_op7q4lw", "author": "/u/SadProduce6456", "updated": "2026-06-01T22:45:01+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/op7q4lw/", "content": "I saw my statement the other day, it said at 65 I get $4000 a month. I will also get about 1600 a month in a pension. That means at 65 I will be making $5600 a month. That is 60k a year. Enough for me to live the carefree lifestyle I live in today’s dollars. Not considering inflation. I also have a healthy retirement fund. I should be fine, I plan to retire when I’m 60. I’ll be 51 in a few months.\n Don’t discount that you may be divorced by then. You wouldn’t be the first. So you may be doing that math for one at that time. I was married for 20 years, and I promise you I never thought I would’ve been divorced. And I used to do the math for two. Feels like a silly exercise now." }, { "id": "t1_ootssgj", "author": "/u/kitapjen", "updated": "2026-05-30T20:47:56+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/ootssgj/", "content": "I admit it. As a very late comer to these concepts, my retirement plan is mostly Social Security with my small local government pension, but also expat and lean.\n I suspect I will be lucky to have a net worth of $350k when I retire. (I’m conservatively calculating things at $250k.)\n But, by the time I reach 62, the pension and Social Security would cover all of our expected spending. Cash from the sale of our home would be our bridge to that period, and our investments would be there in case of emergency!" }, { "id": "t1_oott3j7", "author": "/u/asurkhaib", "updated": "2026-05-30T20:49:33+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/oott3j7/", "content": "Covering your spend 30 years into retirement isn't that impactful. I include it, with the predicted shortfall haircut, but it also doesn't move the needle on long retirements.\n "Only" hit the cap after six years in the workforce is pretty fast too so this amount at 40 is an outlier." }, { "id": "t1_oottiim", "author": "/u/Wooden-Broccoli-913", "updated": "2026-05-30T20:51:43+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/oottiim/", "content": "Outlier or not it happens and people disbelieve it" }, { "id": "t1_oottmg8", "author": "/u/Hot_Sun0422", "updated": "2026-05-30T20:52:17+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/oottmg8/", "content": "My plans never factored in SS. My plan right now is to retire at 60 and leave SS alone until 70. I’m doing this for the sole purpose of spousal benefits. I earn a lot more money than my wife and I like the idea of her having a nice size monthly benefit on top of what is left in retirement." }, { "id": "t1_ootu9hk", "author": "/u/3334444magic", "updated": "2026-05-30T20:55:38+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/ootu9hk/", "content": "Yeah it can be a nice boost.\n I think this is a good placr to remind people that ssa.tools\n Is also a good website to use for fire purposes bc it can add 0 years at the end for early retirees trying tk get a good estimate" }, { "id": "t1_ootuklx", "author": "/u/More_Armadillo_1607", "updated": "2026-05-30T20:57:16+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/ootuklx/", "content": "If you enter in $0 for your current income in the calculator, it tells you that you'll get $45k at 70? That $45k is also.in future dollars. 30 years from now, it won't be close to.what $45k is today\n I project my SS but your numbers seem off." }, { "id": "t1_ootury7", "author": "/u/Wooden-Broccoli-913", "updated": "2026-05-30T20:58:20+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/ootury7/", "content": "That’s exactly what it says, and the $45k is in today’s dollars" }, { "id": "t1_ootvc4u", "author": "/u/mmrose1980", "updated": "2026-05-30T21:01:15+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/ootvc4u/", "content": "Nope. For me that’s in today’s dollars. But I am a very high earner who maxes it out every year. I’m projected to get like $48k in today’s dollars." }, { "id": "t1_ootuvsi", "author": "/u/HamsterCapable4118", "updated": "2026-05-30T20:58:53+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/ootuvsi/", "content": "This is wrong." }, { "id": "t1_ootwwr6", "author": "/u/chaaleesy", "updated": "2026-05-30T21:09:32+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/ootwwr6/", "content": "Yea u better double check your math bro. Take you total highest 35 years income / 420 to get your ave monthly earnings. Then the formula is (for a full retirement year) 90% of the first (\\$1,286) of your AIME.32% of any amount over (\\$1,286) up to (\\$7,749).15% of any amount over (\\$7,749. Assuming that you ave 117k over 35 years (which you say you don’t) that would be $3,654 / month full $43,849 annually. At around 18 years at $117k that benefit drops to around $29k. Check your math." }, { "id": "t1_ootx85m", "author": "/u/Wooden-Broccoli-913", "updated": "2026-05-30T21:11:13+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/ootx85m/", "content": "Already did bro" }, { "id": "t1_ooty4t5", "author": "/u/Jimny977", "updated": "2026-05-30T21:16:02+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/ooty4t5/", "content": "I’m jealous, in the UK provided you have sufficient years to qualify for the max, it’s £12k/yr whether you made £15k/yr your whole life and paid virtually nothing in, or £15m/yr. I’ve never understood why it doesn’t scale at least somewhat." }, { "id": "t1_ootyrjh", "author": "/u/moneyman74", "updated": "2026-05-30T21:19:22+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/ootyrjh/", "content": "Yes I don't think overall consensus has caught up to this fact." }, { "id": "t1_ootzmid", "author": "/u/marcortyaas", "updated": "2026-05-30T21:23:57+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/ootzmid/", "content": "I don't care enough to double check, I just screenshot OP's numbers comment into Gemini and it says monthly benefit at 70 is $3225." }, { "id": "t1_oousvka", "author": "/u/Wooden-Broccoli-913", "updated": "2026-05-31T00:13:58+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/oousvka/", "content": "Born in 1986\n First income of $60k in 2008\n Ramped up each year eventually hitting $117k in 2014\n Stayed at the max SS wage through 2026\n Zero income after that\n Start SS at age 70\n Put that into AI or any SS calculator and tell me what you get" }, { "id": "t1_oov78jq", "author": "/u/marcortyaas", "updated": "2026-05-31T01:41:48+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/oov78jq/", "content": "Like my comment said, I literally posted your comment into Gemini and got $3225" }, { "id": "t1_oou0587", "author": "/u/TalonButter", "updated": "2026-05-30T21:26:46+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/oou0587/", "content": "Yeah, until the second bend point, it doesn’t seem so bad. Beyond that is a different story, but it’s what makes the system work (to the extent it does)." }, { "id": "t1_oou0z9v", "author": "/u/amsman03", "updated": "2026-05-30T21:31:16+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/oou0z9v/", "content": "I agree, wife was not a huge high earner but did OK. We both took SS at 65 , when Medicare started (67 now) and this year our total is just under 70K.....with a couple or rental houses and everything paid off, we haven't touched any retirement $$ yet and we're putting a few thousand a month into extra into the taxable brokerage account.\n Retiring on SS can be OK if you set yourself up properly!" }, { "id": "t1_oou1t3f", "author": "/u/Hot-Opportunity8786", "updated": "2026-05-30T21:35:45+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/oou1t3f/", "content": "Are you factoring in the automatic benefit cuts required by law when the fund becomes insolvent?" }, { "id": "t1_oou1wmp", "author": "/u/Packtex60", "updated": "2026-05-30T21:36:16+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/oou1wmp/", "content": "Is that an inflation adjusted $90k?" }, { "id": "t1_oout1nu", "author": "/u/Wooden-Broccoli-913", "updated": "2026-05-31T00:15:02+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/oout1nu/", "content": "Yes" }, { "id": "t1_oou39dw", "author": "/u/RecordPlastic7376", "updated": "2026-05-30T21:43:43+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/oou39dw/", "content": "The SS website estimate assumes you will keep working. If you retire early before putting in 35 years at max salary then the benefits will be less." }, { "id": "t1_oov06i0", "author": "/u/Wooden-Broccoli-913", "updated": "2026-05-31T00:58:30+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/oov06i0/", "content": "Born in 1986\n First income of $60k in 2008\n Ramped up each year eventually hitting $117k in 2014\n Stayed at the max SS wage through 2026\n Zero income after that\n Start SS at age 70\n Account for the social security bend points\n Put that into AI or any SS calculator and tell me what you get" }, { "id": "t1_oou3wgp", "author": "/u/FederalLobster5665", "updated": "2026-05-30T21:47:15+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/oou3wgp/", "content": "I suspect your spend could be a lot higher than that in 30 years due to inflation alone....." }, { "id": "t1_oou75er", "author": "/u/watch-nerd", "updated": "2026-05-30T22:05:08+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/oou75er/", "content": "Mine is $58k if I take it at 70" }, { "id": "t1_oou7wmk", "author": "/u/LongLonMan", "updated": "2026-05-30T22:09:23+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/oou7wmk/", "content": "Age 70 is delayed retirement. My 70 SSA number is $63K, but if you want to maximize SSA you should take it as early as possible, e.g., 62, which for me is closer to $35K/year.\n Here’s the math if death is 78 YO.\n 1. At 62, $2.9K/mo = $556K\n 2. At 70, $5.3K/mo = $509K\n Even better option 1, you can reinvest from 62-70 the proceeds which would likely put you $200K more ahead than option 2." }, { "id": "t1_oouu8ep", "author": "/u/Wooden-Broccoli-913", "updated": "2026-05-31T00:22:28+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/oouu8ep/", "content": "Now do the math for death at 88 years old.\n Social security is supposed to be longevity insurance" }, { "id": "t1_oou9apx", "author": "/u/MWREE", "updated": "2026-05-30T22:17:19+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/oou9apx/", "content": "You have to be doing the future value of money - so it isn't nearly as good as you make it sound." }, { "id": "t1_oouu9t8", "author": "/u/Wooden-Broccoli-913", "updated": "2026-05-31T00:22:43+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/oouu9t8/", "content": "The numbers are in today’s dollars" }, { "id": "t1_opgf4pn", "author": "/u/MWREE", "updated": "2026-06-03T04:47:17+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/opgf4pn/", "content": "Oh, yah my bad. I missed the fact that you were talking about waiting until 70 and did the calculator for 62. All that being said though I think the "especially for high earners" is carrying the burden of your message here. As a not high earner who is just a few years older, only broke 6 figures recently and don't anticipate going up much more, my number would be half yours. I'd have to work all the way to that 70 to get your number." }, { "id": "t1_ooug3h9", "author": "/u/CaptainDorfman", "updated": "2026-05-30T22:56:36+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/ooug3h9/", "content": "There’s only 15% replacement rate beyond ~$6000 AIME. Figure the average FIRE worker works 17.5 yrs instead of 35, so if you average $12,000/mo income over a 17.5 yr career, you’ll hit that second inflection point in the AIME curve." }, { "id": "t1_oougkwr", "author": "/u/Most_Deer_3890", "updated": "2026-05-30T22:59:24+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/oougkwr/", "content": "Its all of your non discretionary spend, today." }, { "id": "t1_oouzxl4", "author": "/u/Wooden-Broccoli-913", "updated": "2026-05-31T00:57:00+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/oouzxl4/", "content": "Which will only go down as the kids leave the house and I pay off the mortgage" }, { "id": "t1_oouha8j", "author": "/u/SantasHelper33", "updated": "2026-05-30T23:03:33+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/oouha8j/", "content": "Youre not calculating the very real scenario that ss will be insolvent and drop down to 70% payout in just a few years. You and I wont be seeing current payouts." }, { "id": "t1_ooulpse", "author": "/u/CapitanianExtinction", "updated": "2026-05-30T23:30:00+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/ooulpse/", "content": "You could've gotten more for longer if the money was invested" }, { "id": "t1_ooulvzb", "author": "/u/FootballRegular16", "updated": "2026-05-30T23:31:03+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/ooulvzb/", "content": "If you account for inflation thats about 15k per year value" }, { "id": "t1_oouzui9", "author": "/u/Wooden-Broccoli-913", "updated": "2026-05-31T00:56:30+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/oouzui9/", "content": "It’s $45k in today’s dollars" }, { "id": "t1_ooxb9vl", "author": "/u/dublin87", "updated": "2026-05-31T11:26:15+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/ooxb9vl/", "content": "Social security scales with inflation automatically…" }, { "id": "t1_oouma9w", "author": "/u/marshdrifter", "updated": "2026-05-30T23:33:30+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/oouma9w/", "content": "I'm getting $23,088 a year in Social Security at 69 years old." }, { "id": "t1_ooup01p", "author": "/u/8FConsulting", "updated": "2026-05-30T23:50:06+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/ooup01p/", "content": "You should plan on the assumption that SSI will not be there, or at the very least the (so-called) benefits will be curtailed to a significant amount.\n I planned my FIRE without factoring SSI at all." }, { "id": "t1_ooupgub", "author": "/u/ciesum", "updated": "2026-05-30T23:52:59+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/ooupgub/", "content": "only is doing a lot of work in 117k in 2014" }, { "id": "t1_oouvl3j", "author": "/u/Wooden-Broccoli-913", "updated": "2026-05-31T00:30:44+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/oouvl3j/", "content": "Never said I wasn’t rich" }, { "id": "t1_ooutapc", "author": "/u/Determined420", "updated": "2026-05-31T00:16:36+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/ooutapc/", "content": "The lower earner can claim spousal at 62 than claim their own later" }, { "id": "t1_oouu8xy", "author": "/u/Topaz_11", "updated": "2026-05-31T00:22:34+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/oouu8xy/", "content": "Just be careful as the default number you see assumes continued contributions. You can zero out the future income on the SSA website and it gets a different estimate." }, { "id": "t1_oouuthl", "author": "/u/Wooden-Broccoli-913", "updated": "2026-05-31T00:26:02+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/oouuthl/", "content": "Born in 1986\n First income of $60k in 2008\n Ramped up each year eventually hitting $117k in 2014\n Stayed at the max SS wage through 2026\n Zero income after that\n Start SS at age 70\n Account for the Social Security bend points\n Put that into AI or any SS calculator and tell me what you get" }, { "id": "t1_oouw6ez", "author": "/u/Automatic-Unit-8307", "updated": "2026-05-31T00:34:19+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/oouw6ez/", "content": "Why AI? It’s usually wrong" }, { "id": "t1_oouvhvi", "author": "/u/Topaz_11", "updated": "2026-05-31T00:30:13+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/oouvhvi/", "content": "lol... AI? Or you could use the calc that the people who cut the check provide." }, { "id": "t1_oouyugf", "author": "/u/slasher016", "updated": "2026-05-31T00:50:23+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/oouyugf/", "content": "If you're using what they show that assume you work until claiming age. You have change the future earnings to $0 to get a real picture as what it would be. If you stopped working at 40 you would NOT get $45k a year in SS" }, { "id": "t1_oouzjgh", "author": "/u/Wooden-Broccoli-913", "updated": "2026-05-31T00:54:41+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/oouzjgh/", "content": "Born in 1986\n First income of $60k in 2008\n Ramped up each year eventually hitting $117k in 2014\n Stayed at the max SS wage through 2026\n Zero income after that\n Start SS at age 70\n Account for the social security bend points\n Put that into AI or any SS calculator and tell me what you get" }, { "id": "t1_oov0oxa", "author": "/u/slasher016", "updated": "2026-05-31T01:01:37+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/oov0oxa/", "content": "I missed that you said @ 70. With delayed benefits that's closer. Though that still sounds a bit high (mine is $48k @ 70 with zero additional earnings and I've been working decently longer than you.)" }, { "id": "t1_oov0rx7", "author": "/u/NobbyStiles66", "updated": "2026-05-31T01:02:07+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/oov0rx7/", "content": "Age 70." }, { "id": "t1_oov1106", "author": "/u/welsherabbit", "updated": "2026-05-31T01:03:40+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/oov1106/", "content": "By the time you get closer to old age, you will likely want to retire closer to 63 than 70–so you should calculate based on taking the earlier SS benefits." }, { "id": "t1_oov14ns", "author": "/u/Wooden-Broccoli-913", "updated": "2026-05-31T01:04:17+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/oov14ns/", "content": "I’m retiring at 40" }, { "id": "t1_oovbgil", "author": "/u/Academic-Pilot-5908", "updated": "2026-05-31T02:07:22+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/oovbgil/", "content": "How does retiring at 40 and not “paying” more into it affect your income at 70?" }, { "id": "t1_oov44d1", "author": "/u/sweetyprincessx", "updated": "2026-05-31T01:22:05+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/oov44d1/", "content": "This is actually wild to see laid out like this, most people just assume Social Security is basically nothing and completely write it off in their retirement planning. Definitely changes how I think about the math." }, { "id": "t1_oov4fiu", "author": "/u/Educational_Case_134", "updated": "2026-05-31T01:23:58+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/oov4fiu/", "content": "At 3% inflation , $90,000 in 30 years would buy roughly what $37,000 buys today" }, { "id": "t1_oovoizr", "author": "/u/Wooden-Broccoli-913", "updated": "2026-05-31T03:26:41+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/oovoizr/", "content": "It is $90k in today’s dollars" }, { "id": "t1_ooxb3cc", "author": "/u/dublin87", "updated": "2026-05-31T11:24:55+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/ooxb3cc/", "content": "Social security scales with inflation annually…" }, { "id": "t1_ooxl1xo", "author": "/u/Educational_Case_134", "updated": "2026-05-31T12:33:01+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/ooxl1xo/", "content": "I am aware" }, { "id": "t1_oov8hgz", "author": "/u/Equivalent-Room-8428", "updated": "2026-05-31T01:49:36+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/oov8hgz/", "content": "I'm shocked the top comment isn't about SS running out by 2033.\n It's completely unknown what SS will look like when you get there, unless you are collecting now.\n They can reduce the amount or extend the age to start collecting in the future. It was designed to help people for 12ish years and now people are collecting for 30ish years." }, { "id": "t1_oovg2aa", "author": "/u/JayNetworks", "updated": "2026-05-31T02:35:07+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/oovg2aa/", "content": "Remember, Social Security is not running out in a few years. Only the save cash trust fund is running out, if nothing is done to fix it.\n That means there will only be enough coming in from working people to cover about 80% of the payments. So if nothing else is done payments from by 20%, but do not go away.\n I agree that the government can change anything that enough reps vote for so anything could change, especially for higher earners or for those with higher net worths even if earning low incomes." }, { "id": "t1_oovb30z", "author": "/u/west-town-brad", "updated": "2026-05-31T02:05:07+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/oovb30z/", "content": "This is very interesting. We have a similar earning trajectory, but I'm 2 years older than OP. If I stop working now I would get $3200 per month from SSA at age 67. If I work for 17 more years at top earnings, I would get $4200 per month at age 67. That's a long time to work for $1,000 per month extra!" }, { "id": "t1_oovib3e", "author": "/u/thesonofdarwin", "updated": "2026-05-31T02:48:48+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/oovib3e/", "content": "I'm your age and a high earner with a few years less of max earnings. For taking at 70, if I work another 10 years I get $51k. If I stop working today and have an additional 10 years of zeroes, I get $36k.\n Everyone should verify their own scenario, but for me, 30% less is not nothing. But we aren't factoring SS at all." }, { "id": "t1_oovpzac", "author": "/u/ripplefa", "updated": "2026-05-31T03:36:30+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/oovpzac/", "content": "Per my info on the SSA site, 62 would be the earliest age I can start getting benefits, here's the options I'm getting.\n 62 - $2,700\n 67 - $4,100\n 70 - $5,100" }, { "id": "t1_oowk1kx", "author": "/u/hanwagu1", "updated": "2026-05-31T07:34:02+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/oowk1kx/", "content": "Ensure you are reading the projection correctly, since most people ignore the part where it says "based on your earnings to date and assume you continue to earn $$ per year until you start your benefits".\n You should also use the unreduced FRA benefit then either reduce or increase based on the FRA unreduced benefit amount. So, in your example, so long as you aren't going to have earned income anymore and your unreduced benefit at FRA 67yo is $4,100/mo, then reduced benefit (30% reduction from FRA unreduced) at 62yo would be $2,870/mo and increased benefit (124% of unreduced) at 70yo would be $5,084/mo." }, { "id": "t1_op1q9tj", "author": "/u/ripplefa", "updated": "2026-06-01T01:25:06+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/op1q9tj/", "content": "Thank you for this explanatio, I think I finally understand how this works. I'm 49, working in the TV streaming industry, which doesn't have the best outlook and if I get laid off in the next months (or years), I would pursue FIRE. It looks like I should not count on SS to be a significant source of income in the future." }, { "id": "t1_oovs4fn", "author": "/u/NefariousnessOdd862", "updated": "2026-05-31T03:51:08+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/oovs4fn/", "content": "Use the official SSA website instead of Reddit! The garbage people tell you hear is exactly that, garbage! The SSA Website has your data and you can plug in the numbers however you want/expect and know exactly what you’ll get! But I can tell you that your thinking right now seems grossly incorrect, that’s not how it works…😉" }, { "id": "t1_oovzcum", "author": "/u/Wooden-Broccoli-913", "updated": "2026-05-31T04:42:54+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/oovzcum/", "content": "I did use the SSA website" }, { "id": "t1_oovu00l", "author": "/u/skykitty89", "updated": "2026-05-31T04:04:05+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/oovu00l/", "content": "I'll throw my dumb question into the pot here: I started working (W2 job paying into SS) the day I turned 14. Obviously very part time and making next to nothing for several years, but haven't had a single year since then that I was not some degree of employed and paying into the pot. Does this benefit me in any way? Plan is to retire at 50, would this mean there are no 0 years in my calculation?" }, { "id": "t1_oowhyd4", "author": "/u/hanwagu1", "updated": "2026-05-31T07:16:06+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/oowhyd4/", "content": "SS takes highest 35yrs of inflation adjusted income. If you started working at 14yo and you retire at 50yo, you'd have 39yrs of earned income history. SS takes the highest 35yrs of those 39yrs of the calculation. Bend points means that your lower income years weigh more than higher income years. Plus, your earnings are inflation adjusted. So, if you earned $10k in 1988 at 14yo, then that is equivalent of $28,150 today which is the number it would use to calculate if calculating today. Move that indexed inflation forward when you actually start claiming ssb." }, { "id": "t1_oovulxv", "author": "/u/CommercialGlass4999", "updated": "2026-05-31T04:08:19+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/oovulxv/", "content": "Personally, I am assuming social security benefits will have to be significantly reduced given the budget deficits and the insufficient number of future workers vs recipients. Counting on about thirty percent less than the boomer generation.\n One mechanism for this is when the SS trust fund is depleted, congress could do nothing and benefits will be equal to SS tax revenues. That’s when the 30% reduction happens. The trust fund was a bit of fiction anyway - pass SS revenues were merged into general revenues and the money basically has been spent." }, { "id": "t1_oovv1pk", "author": "/u/rwk2007", "updated": "2026-05-31T04:11:23+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/oovv1pk/", "content": "You will get zero per month in the future." }, { "id": "t1_oovy91t", "author": "/u/johnnyBuz", "updated": "2026-05-31T04:34:36+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/oovy91t/", "content": "90k in 20-30 years is not going to get you far. Inflation is a bitch." }, { "id": "t1_ooxarhx", "author": "/u/dublin87", "updated": "2026-05-31T11:22:27+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/ooxarhx/", "content": "Social security payouts adjust to inflation every year. It’s wild how many people in this sub don’t know that" }, { "id": "t1_ooy35s6", "author": "/u/johnnyBuz", "updated": "2026-05-31T14:15:16+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/ooy35s6/", "content": "CPI inflation is significantly less than M2 inflation which is the number that really matters." }, { "id": "t1_oovya6g", "author": "/u/ProcusteanBedz", "updated": "2026-05-31T04:34:50+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/oovya6g/", "content": "If you continue working the payout continues to adjust with inflation does it not? If you stop working it’s frozen or does it adjust as well?" }, { "id": "t1_oovzxd9", "author": "/u/Wooden-Broccoli-913", "updated": "2026-05-31T04:47:09+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/oovzxd9/", "content": "If you stop working it keeps adjusting for inflation" }, { "id": "t1_oowh8bs", "author": "/u/hanwagu1", "updated": "2026-05-31T07:09:52+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/oowh8bs/", "content": "your earning history is continually adjusted for inflation. So even though you mihgt have made $10k 20yrs ago, that $20k is adjusted for inflation to make the calculation." }, { "id": "t1_oowktas", "author": "/u/CAIL888", "updated": "2026-05-31T07:40:41+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/oowktas/", "content": "I’d the assumption the $45k will grow with inflation or is that the number you get in 25 years?" }, { "id": "t1_ooxanng", "author": "/u/dublin87", "updated": "2026-05-31T11:21:38+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/ooxanng/", "content": "SS scales with inflation." }, { "id": "t1_oozs8ta", "author": "/u/CAIL888", "updated": "2026-05-31T19:05:21+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/oozs8ta/", "content": "Formulaic cpi based? Thanks" }, { "id": "t1_oowmshy", "author": "/u/Seaguard5", "updated": "2026-05-31T07:57:46+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/oowmshy/", "content": "So what are you saying exactly?\n A. That only gets paid out when you are at least 65, right?\n What about those 25 years until you get there?\n B. Inflation is TARGETED at 2%. Per year.\n So all that money really won’t be worth half of what it is now if it stays at or under 2%. But we all know it will get far worse than that…\n C. You should never. EVER rely on only SS." }, { "id": "t1_ooy3yur", "author": "/u/Wooden-Broccoli-913", "updated": "2026-05-31T14:19:26+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/ooy3yur/", "content": "A. In my scenario, paying out at 70. I am retiring at 40. This is r/FIRE , right?\n B. Did you not know that Social Security adjusts with inflation?" }, { "id": "t1_ooxakla", "author": "/u/dublin87", "updated": "2026-05-31T11:21:01+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/ooxakla/", "content": "I am surprised how few people understand that part of the structural concern over SS is that it scales with inflation…" }, { "id": "t1_oown2as", "author": "/u/FlyFishingRealtor", "updated": "2026-05-31T08:00:09+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/oown2as/", "content": "They cut Medicare and Medicaid and ACA subsidies and fema and snap, I wouldn’t trust they will fix SS in time. They’ll just increase the retirement age and still do a 35% reduction. Of course they may have to implement UBI but it’s not like the rich politicians care." }, { "id": "t1_oowqtwc", "author": "/u/CymroBachUSA", "updated": "2026-05-31T08:33:42+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/oowqtwc/", "content": "Have you accounted for inflation over the next 30 years? $90k in 2056 isn't going to go as far as now." }, { "id": "t1_ooxa8qz", "author": "/u/dublin87", "updated": "2026-05-31T11:18:34+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/ooxa8qz/", "content": "Social security scales automatically with inflation every year. Assuming the system doesn’t collapse or substantially change, the payout in 2056 will be roughly $90k in 2026 purchasing power. At least, that’s the premise." }, { "id": "t1_ooxcrej", "author": "/u/Traveller_2099", "updated": "2026-05-31T11:37:18+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/ooxcrej/", "content": "Also, whether you collect at 62 or at 70, the total benefit is actuarially the same/equivalent for your life expectancy. The breakeven point is so much farther out that it makes sense to collect early and let your FIRE investments run in aggressive investments." }, { "id": "t1_ooy65eh", "author": "/u/Wooden-Broccoli-913", "updated": "2026-05-31T14:30:31+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/ooy65eh/", "content": "Actuarial benefit doesn’t account for individual health, and it is generally understood that rich people live longer" }, { "id": "t1_ooy9crk", "author": "/u/Traveller_2099", "updated": "2026-05-31T14:46:36+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/ooy9crk/", "content": "No guarantees in life. Look around. Take SS early and leave cash for your heirs. Thats my policy at least" }, { "id": "t1_ooxfk6f", "author": "/u/Bruceshadow", "updated": "2026-05-31T11:57:00+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/ooxfk6f/", "content": "$90k in 30 years will be worth roughly half spending power as today." }, { "id": "t1_ooy31m2", "author": "/u/Wooden-Broccoli-913", "updated": "2026-05-31T14:14:41+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/ooy31m2/", "content": "It’s $90k in today’s dollars" }, { "id": "t1_ooxr09o", "author": "/u/kevreh", "updated": "2026-05-31T13:08:51+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/ooxr09o/", "content": "Look into collecting earlier, may not be worth it to wait until your 70. My plan is to start at 62. But your point is valid, ss isn’t chump change (unless your cost of living is very high)." }, { "id": "t1_ooxt00r", "author": "/u/Outrageous-Egg7218", "updated": "2026-05-31T13:20:13+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/ooxt00r/", "content": "Wish the was a follow up PSA that Medicare covers earlier than you think." }, { "id": "t1_ooy5zmk", "author": "/u/Wooden-Broccoli-913", "updated": "2026-05-31T14:29:41+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/ooy5zmk/", "content": "Go post it" }, { "id": "t1_ooxzsfn", "author": "/u/alextruetone", "updated": "2026-05-31T13:57:34+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/ooxzsfn/", "content": "This is assuming the fund is solvent by that time lol" }, { "id": "t1_ooydk3x", "author": "/u/Rninetmaine", "updated": "2026-05-31T15:07:12+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/ooydk3x/", "content": "Yes, SS can be the gravy on the pot roast of retirement life. Not the enough for the roast, but sure makes it taste better. Everyone needs to look closely at their SS account, asap!" }, { "id": "t1_ooymqsh", "author": "/u/CalbertCorpse", "updated": "2026-05-31T15:51:20+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/ooymqsh/", "content": "Following" }, { "id": "t1_ooyo4ex", "author": "/u/Original_Sell_1485", "updated": "2026-05-31T15:57:52+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/ooyo4ex/", "content": "Who can wait until 70? What’s the payment at 67?" }, { "id": "t1_ooyt01c", "author": "/u/Wooden-Broccoli-913", "updated": "2026-05-31T16:20:44+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/ooyt01c/", "content": "This is r/FIRE is it not?" }, { "id": "t1_ooz7c1n", "author": "/u/JuiceBoxHoneyComb", "updated": "2026-05-31T17:27:54+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/ooz7c1n/", "content": "Thats fine, if you live to 70." }, { "id": "t1_oozb7hu", "author": "/u/Wooden-Broccoli-913", "updated": "2026-05-31T17:45:45+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/oozb7hu/", "content": "Expected life expectancy for an American male with top 1% income like myself is 87 years" }, { "id": "t1_oozc31i", "author": "/u/sweetlemmmonaid", "updated": "2026-05-31T17:49:48+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/oozc31i/", "content": "Is that calculation ($45K single, $90K joint) in 2026 dollars or 2056 dollars?" }, { "id": "t1_oozcxnr", "author": "/u/Wooden-Broccoli-913", "updated": "2026-05-31T17:53:43+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/oozcxnr/", "content": "It’s in 2026 dollars" }, { "id": "t1_oozdgb4", "author": "/u/Impossible_Cat_321", "updated": "2026-05-31T17:56:06+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/oozdgb4/", "content": "I've been a high earner my entire career. Taking ss at 62, which will give us an extra $4k per month in discretionary income. Wife will take it at 70 for about $6k which will be her old lady nursing home money" }, { "id": "t1_op0nrc1", "author": "/u/neomoritate", "updated": "2026-05-31T21:41:05+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/op0nrc1/", "content": "What do you imaging $45,000 will be worth in 2056?\n or < tree fiddy" }, { "id": "t1_op18hei", "author": "/u/Wooden-Broccoli-913", "updated": "2026-05-31T23:36:42+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/op18hei/", "content": "It’s $45k in today’s dollars" }, { "id": "t1_op0yfh6", "author": "/u/mds13033", "updated": "2026-05-31T22:38:52+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/op0yfh6/", "content": "The more important question is what will be the purchasing power of the money when you are 70 though?" }, { "id": "t1_op0z18n", "author": "/u/InternetRando12345", "updated": "2026-05-31T22:42:17+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/op0z18n/", "content": "Here is the math for this. There are 2 bend points and 3 ratios in the calculation. The 90% bend point maxes out at roughly $1250 per month average earnings over 35 years. Maxing this gets you $1125/mo at age 67, close to $1400 at age 70. This is a FANTASTIC ROI\n The 2nd bend point is 32% and is always half of the current max. If the current max is $180k, or $15k/mo, the 32% bend point maxes out at $7.5k/mo. Maxing this is going to give you close to +$2500/mo at 67 or +3100 or so at 70. Bringing your total to $3625 or $4500 for 67/70 when adding up the 90% and 32% components.\n Above this point up to the current max, your benefit only increases by 15%. The ROI for being in the 15% bend point is small. if you have a small business, you should pay yourself a salary that will maximize (or near) the 32% bend point, but avoid most of the 15% bend point zone....Better to invest it yourself at this point. If you have a (mostly) stay at home spouse who helps with the business some, pay them at least enough to max the 90% bend point over their working life.\n If you max social security for 17 to 18 years and have 0 for 17 to 18 years, you'll still max the 32% bend point because your prior years (before age 60) are adjusted for inflation.\n I've been maxing for about 15 years and I've worked about 33. Without the inflation adjustment, I'm still just below maxing the 32% bend point. With the inflation adjustment, I'm well above maxing the 32%.\n By the way, you should calculate this out yourself because the social security website's calculator isn't that flexible. I scale for inflation by having a row of the social security max by for each year. The scaling factor for each row's actual income is (CurrentYearMax / ThatRowsMax). If the current max is 180k, and the 2008 max was about $90k, the scaling factor is 2.0 for 2008 income. I'm not sure this is how social security does it, but it gives a decent approximation.\n To some degree, if you're very high income and want to retire early, the government removing the max on social security could be beneficial. If you are making 3x the limit and the limit is removed, instead of 17 years or so of maxing to max the 32% bend point, you would only need about 6 years of making 3x the current max. Note that you'd still need to have 40 quarters of qualifying income, but that's a fairly low bar (almost any hobby income you report would be enough for a qualifying quarter)." }, { "id": "t1_op13oai", "author": "/u/ObligationLow8187", "updated": "2026-05-31T23:08:33+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/op13oai/", "content": "The magic number is around 18 year of max ssi contribution, that will get you to the second bend point," }, { "id": "t1_op1zz0d", "author": "/u/BelCantoTenor", "updated": "2026-06-01T02:25:49+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/op1zz0d/", "content": "You are forgetting what 30 years of inflation is going to do to that SS income. Everything will cost double or more by the time you are 70.\n Look up what things cost 30 years ago to get some perspective." }, { "id": "t1_op22ko8", "author": "/u/Wooden-Broccoli-913", "updated": "2026-06-01T02:42:22+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/op22ko8/", "content": "Social Security is adjusted for inflation" }, { "id": "t1_op22tm6", "author": "/u/Glass_Barnacle_7908", "updated": "2026-06-01T02:43:57+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/op22tm6/", "content": "This is extremely important to understand as sometimes the additional working years dont really add too much to your SS benefits, in that case the trade off is not worth it and retiring early makes even more sense" }, { "id": "t1_op2581x", "author": "/u/Jazzlike-Baker-9486", "updated": "2026-06-01T02:59:31+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/op2581x/", "content": "Is it better to be a married or single in this scenario? I.E., would two single people bring in more than a married couple?" }, { "id": "t1_op25ejz", "author": "/u/Recent_Recover_1490", "updated": "2026-06-01T03:00:43+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/op25ejz/", "content": "This all presupposes that social security in its current form is going to exist in 20 to 30 years. News flash: the country is drowning in debt. Once the boomers are gone we'll have to deal with the insolvency of SS, it's been structured this way by them." }, { "id": "t1_op25yn8", "author": "/u/AnonUserAccount", "updated": "2026-06-01T03:04:25+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/op25yn8/", "content": "SSA uses your highest 35 years of earned income to calculate your annuity. If you only worked from 2008-2028, that’s 21 years of earnings. They will add 14 years at $0, which will dramatically reduce your payments.\n Just because your yearly statement says you will receive $4,000 a month at 67, doesn’t mean that’s what you will receive. They are assuming you will continue to earn at the same average salary as you have been earning. As soon as you put a bunch of $0 years in the mix, it will make a huge difference. If 14/35 years are $0, and this gets averaged with your current reported incomes, it would probably mean you get $12-15k less a year in SSA payments." }, { "id": "t1_op2p635", "author": "/u/No_Detective_708", "updated": "2026-06-01T05:23:16+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/op2p635/", "content": "Yeah, I suspect $45k will have significantly less buying power than it has today." }, { "id": "t1_op2p9xj", "author": "/u/Wooden-Broccoli-913", "updated": "2026-06-01T05:24:08+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/op2p9xj/", "content": "Social security is adjusted for inflation" }, { "id": "t1_op2qbkl", "author": "/u/Mongoose_Inspector", "updated": "2026-06-01T05:32:33+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/op2qbkl/", "content": "Yeah, that's why I like the option of taking it out at age 62. With how much I've saved, there's no way I'm waiting until 70." }, { "id": "t1_op30lvh", "author": "/u/Individual_Long_4959", "updated": "2026-06-01T06:58:44+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/op30lvh/", "content": "You’re 90k in a few years is equivalent to 45k in actual spending" }, { "id": "t1_op310ht", "author": "/u/Fitasianwife", "updated": "2026-06-01T07:02:08+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/op310ht/", "content": "Sir, you have an incredible amount to learn about SS rules and benefits. You have one idea correct-it is an incredible benefit for a family and should be viewed as such. There are many cheap tools that can give you an individual “best strategy” for this incredible benefit. One piece of advice, don’t ever listen to those who would tell you to take it early and invest it in the market and get richer in 5-8 years. The advantage in amounts at taking at 70, generally outweigh all others in the longterm. Best of luck." }, { "id": "t1_op45u4d", "author": "/u/LibrarySpiritual5371", "updated": "2026-06-01T12:23:06+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/op45u4d/", "content": "100% not an absolute that taking at 70 is always best.\n It is not best for someone with a low life expectancy (likely will not live long enough to hit the breakeven)\n It is not best for someone who does not needed it as the excess spending starting earlier will likely add more value in the early years of retirement than the lifestyle value of the extra monthly amount starting at 70\n 100% the best thing if someone has limited resources is to maximize the monthly payment from social security as that will be a bulk of their retirement income." }, { "id": "t1_op3xb90", "author": "/u/ZachF8119", "updated": "2026-06-01T11:30:08+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/op3xb90/", "content": "Except in 30 years…. Inflation" }, { "id": "t1_op43qps", "author": "/u/grammer70", "updated": "2026-06-01T12:10:50+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/op43qps/", "content": "In 35 years, 90k will not be worth what it is today. You will need double or more." }, { "id": "t1_op5nygq", "author": "/u/queenrosa", "updated": "2026-06-01T16:43:49+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/op5nygq/", "content": "That doesn't look right.\n Are you considering the bent points and calculating that correctly? To get to 45K in retirement pretax, you need to have annual earnings of 120K averaged over 35 years." }, { "id": "t1_op68sxe", "author": "/u/Wooden-Broccoli-913", "updated": "2026-06-01T18:18:37+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/op68sxe/", "content": "Or $200k for 17 years" }, { "id": "t1_op5woda", "author": "/u/ZergvProtoss", "updated": "2026-06-01T17:21:57+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/op5woda/", "content": "haha. You are assuming you live to 70. The government is betting you won't." }, { "id": "t1_op6edj4", "author": "/u/Wooden-Broccoli-913", "updated": "2026-06-01T18:50:56+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/op6edj4/", "content": "Life expectancy for a top 1% income male like myself is 87 years" }, { "id": "t1_op8265k", "author": "/u/Infamous-Cat-4749", "updated": "2026-06-01T23:51:52+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/op8265k/", "content": "By the time you’re 70 it won’t be worth that much" }, { "id": "t1_op89bkz", "author": "/u/Wooden-Broccoli-913", "updated": "2026-06-02T00:33:28+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/op89bkz/", "content": "It’ll be worth exactly what it’s worth today" }, { "id": "t1_op83fxp", "author": "/u/Briggity_Brak", "updated": "2026-06-01T23:59:11+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/op83fxp/", "content": "PSA: Social Security may not exist by the time you're 70." }, { "id": "t1_op87e92", "author": "/u/Oshester", "updated": "2026-06-02T00:22:04+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/op87e92/", "content": "And $45k in 2056 is... good?" }, { "id": "t1_op899xx", "author": "/u/Wooden-Broccoli-913", "updated": "2026-06-02T00:33:12+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/op899xx/", "content": "Social security adjusts for inflation" }, { "id": "t1_opdm1ci", "author": "/u/Remarkable-FlipPhone", "updated": "2026-06-02T19:31:47+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/opdm1ci/", "content": "$80k a year as a base salary when you don’t need to save even a cent of that is pretty solid. Add in their actual retirement savings and they’ve got it good." }, { "id": "t1_op8bq1p", "author": "/u/heresthe-thing", "updated": "2026-06-02T00:47:41+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/op8bq1p/", "content": "This assumes SS will exist in 30 years. I assume it will not." }, { "id": "t1_op8z38c", "author": "/u/MindOverMoneyRaw", "updated": "2026-06-02T03:09:39+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/op8z38c/", "content": "The biggest retirement mistake might not be underestimating expenses.\n It might be underestimating income.\n Most people track every dollar they're trying to build...\n but forget to count the income streams they're already creating.\n That changes the math more than people think." }, { "id": "t1_oparo5l", "author": "/u/Numerous-Bet-4847", "updated": "2026-06-02T11:31:37+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tsalph/psa_social_security_pays_more_than_you_think/oparo5l/", "content": "Wife and I maxed out early as well. And with her pension, along with both our SS, we will never touch our retirement savings." } ] }, { "source": "r/Fire top month", "id": "t3_1t3hhmc", "title": "36M with 800k: making minimum wage off interest", "author": "/u/Tough-Relationship28", "updated": "2026-05-04T13:18:33+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t3hhmc/36m_with_800k_making_minimum_wage_off_interest/", "content": "I have 800k invested and was playing around with my numbers this week. It just dawned on me that if the market returns 8% this means I’d be making 175 bucks a day off interest, or $7.31 an hour.\n 800,000x0.08/365=175.34\n 175.34/24=7.31\n My first job at 16 I was making about 7 bucks an hour, and I believe minimum wage in my state is still $7.25/hr (sad this hasn’t changed much in 20 years).\n This really put things into perspective for me: my money is an army of little green employees making minimum wage for me 24 hours a day, 7 days a week! My 16 year old self would be in awe right now.\n submitted by /u/Tough-Relationship28\n [link] [comments]", "contentHtml": "

I have 800k invested and was playing around with my numbers this week. It just dawned on me that if the market returns 8% this means I’d be making 175 bucks a day off interest, or $7.31 an hour.

800,000x0.08/365=175.34
175.34/24=7.31

My first job at 16 I was making about 7 bucks an hour, and I believe minimum wage in my state is still $7.25/hr (sad this hasn’t changed much in 20 years).

This really put things into perspective for me: my money is an army of little green employees making minimum wage for me 24 hours a day, 7 days a week! My 16 year old self would be in awe right now.

submitted by /u/Tough-Relationship28
[link] [comments]", "comments": [ { "id": "t1_ojv2rck", "author": "/u/ffball", "updated": "2026-05-04T13:28:49+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t3hhmc/36m_with_800k_making_minimum_wage_off_interest/ojv2rck/", "content": "I mean that's well more than minimum wage if its an hourly wage being made 24/7" }, { "id": "t1_ojvjww6", "author": "/u/AeroRanchero", "updated": "2026-05-04T14:51:20+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t3hhmc/36m_with_800k_making_minimum_wage_off_interest/ojvjww6/", "content": "$800,000 x 8% = $64,000 annually\n Assume 48 working weeks per year at 40 hours per week (two unpaid weeks off plus some holidays or call offs) for an hourly laborer:\n $64,000 / 48 / 40 = $33.33 per working hour.\n Or for salary (evenly distributed over 52 weeks at 40 hours / week) it would be a rate of $30.77/hr.\n Edit: returns of 1.74% are equivalent to the wages of a full time minimum wage employee (40 hrs/wk for 48 weeks). And it’s actually much better since you are not paying income taxes on it." }, { "id": "t1_ok8h3co", "author": "/u/sweatytacos", "updated": "2026-05-06T11:57:15+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t3hhmc/36m_with_800k_making_minimum_wage_off_interest/ok8h3co/", "content": "Am I the only one who thinks 8% return for retirement is aggressive" }, { "id": "t1_okd4dzw", "author": "/u/Rain_Unseen", "updated": "2026-05-07T01:19:51+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t3hhmc/36m_with_800k_making_minimum_wage_off_interest/okd4dzw/", "content": "In this sub you might be. I’ve seen around that if the market drops to an unrecoverable point than there are much bigger things to worry about than how much money you’ve got in the bank, and it’s kind of a good point. But ultimately it’s up to you and how risk averse you are." }, { "id": "t1_oldpemt", "author": "/u/Strazdas1", "updated": "2026-05-12T14:41:54+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t3hhmc/36m_with_800k_making_minimum_wage_off_interest/oldpemt/", "content": "I think 3-4% is the generally acceptable withdrawal rate." }, { "id": "t1_ojvagy4", "author": "/u/nectar_Drip", "updated": "2026-05-04T14:07:28+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t3hhmc/36m_with_800k_making_minimum_wage_off_interest/ojvagy4/", "content": "Hourly math gets weird when your “shift” never ends" }, { "id": "t1_ojwhdbb", "author": "/u/DangerousCapybara888", "updated": "2026-05-04T17:21:28+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t3hhmc/36m_with_800k_making_minimum_wage_off_interest/ojwhdbb/", "content": "Poor green little minions don’t get overtime pay" }, { "id": "t1_ok78wam", "author": "/u/Other_Double7461", "updated": "2026-05-06T05:58:31+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t3hhmc/36m_with_800k_making_minimum_wage_off_interest/ok78wam/", "content": "Little green slaves 😂" }, { "id": "t1_ojw2pq3", "author": "/u/VT_Squire", "updated": "2026-05-04T16:16:07+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t3hhmc/36m_with_800k_making_minimum_wage_off_interest/ojw2pq3/", "content": "lol, this." }, { "id": "t1_ojv7y6v", "author": "/u/iwantthisnowdammit", "updated": "2026-05-04T13:55:09+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t3hhmc/36m_with_800k_making_minimum_wage_off_interest/ojv7y6v/", "content": "Yeah, overtime would apply - even double overtime.\n Just using a basic 40 means at the fed level, 24x7 averages to $12.77/hr." }, { "id": "t1_ojvgs3v", "author": "/u/joseph-1998-XO", "updated": "2026-05-04T14:37:05+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t3hhmc/36m_with_800k_making_minimum_wage_off_interest/ojvgs3v/", "content": "Sorry interest is a salaried position, you already signed the offer letter, no OT buddy /s" }, { "id": "t1_ojx9yg8", "author": "/u/Easy_Letterhead8928", "updated": "2026-05-04T19:30:07+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t3hhmc/36m_with_800k_making_minimum_wage_off_interest/ojx9yg8/", "content": "The math is even better when you realize they work on Christmas. Total legends" }, { "id": "t1_ojv2sb9", "author": "/u/myOEburner", "updated": "2026-05-04T13:28:57+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t3hhmc/36m_with_800k_making_minimum_wage_off_interest/ojv2sb9/", "content": "Another way:\n If your army unionized and demanded nights, weekends, and holidays off, and you could never call them for overtime...\n 800,000 × 0.08 = $64,000\n $64,000 ÷ 222 (approx # of working days in a yr) = $288/day\n $288 ÷ 8 = $36\n But do your real life planning at 4%, not 8%." }, { "id": "t1_ojvedmg", "author": "/u/bauhaus83i", "updated": "2026-05-04T14:25:51+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t3hhmc/36m_with_800k_making_minimum_wage_off_interest/ojvedmg/", "content": "Yeah. OP said “interest” which markets gains are not. OP’s point is clear enough but definitely incorrect use of “interest “" }, { "id": "t1_ojvmugj", "author": "/u/myOEburner", "updated": "2026-05-04T15:04:33+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t3hhmc/36m_with_800k_making_minimum_wage_off_interest/ojvmugj/", "content": "I do the same thing. It's lazy but everyone knows what I mean. But you're right." }, { "id": "t1_ojw345k", "author": "/u/Extension-Store6763", "updated": "2026-05-04T16:17:56+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t3hhmc/36m_with_800k_making_minimum_wage_off_interest/ojw345k/", "content": "Kids these days have never seen a bear market. That's why they conflate "interest", "money", or "dollars in the bank" with stonks." }, { "id": "t1_ojzahzm", "author": "/u/JackZLCC", "updated": "2026-05-05T01:43:54+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t3hhmc/36m_with_800k_making_minimum_wage_off_interest/ojzahzm/", "content": "Damn right. Anyone with a clue about markets would never even consider interchanging a long term annualized average equity return with interest." }, { "id": "t1_ojvg4yv", "author": "/u/BananaHiker", "updated": "2026-05-04T14:34:04+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t3hhmc/36m_with_800k_making_minimum_wage_off_interest/ojvg4yv/", "content": "4% for market returns?" }, { "id": "t1_ojvmyin", "author": "/u/myOEburner", "updated": "2026-05-04T15:05:04+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t3hhmc/36m_with_800k_making_minimum_wage_off_interest/ojvmyin/", "content": "4% for your withdraw rate so your cash pile keeps pace with inflation." }, { "id": "t1_ojw75ya", "author": "/u/capitalsfan08", "updated": "2026-05-04T16:36:15+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t3hhmc/36m_with_800k_making_minimum_wage_off_interest/ojw75ya/", "content": "That has nothing to do with "making" minimum wage through assumed growth though. OP sounds like they are firmly in the accumulation stage.\n If you want to get pedantic, OP is earning a safe withdraw amount of:\n $800,000 * 0.08 = $64,000\n $64,000 * 0.04 = $2,562\n $2562 / 222 = $11 per day towards their yearly FIRE number." }, { "id": "t1_ojvog8b", "author": "/u/Acceptable-Peace-69", "updated": "2026-05-04T15:11:53+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t3hhmc/36m_with_800k_making_minimum_wage_off_interest/ojvog8b/", "content": "Real rate of return, after inflation.\n It’s on the low side given recent history, but for planning it’s better to be conservative. This is especially true when you have an administration that is prone to starting trade wars (and war wars) with the entire world." }, { "id": "t1_ojvq981", "author": "/u/BananaHiker", "updated": "2026-05-04T15:20:06+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t3hhmc/36m_with_800k_making_minimum_wage_off_interest/ojvq981/", "content": "The poster said he was talking about drawdown rates not market returns" }, { "id": "t1_ojvtiei", "author": "/u/disengagesimulators", "updated": "2026-05-04T15:34:48+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t3hhmc/36m_with_800k_making_minimum_wage_off_interest/ojvtiei/", "content": "The normal amount of working days in a year would be closer to 262 for most people." }, { "id": "t1_ojvy5qk", "author": "/u/myOEburner", "updated": "2026-05-04T15:55:35+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t3hhmc/36m_with_800k_making_minimum_wage_off_interest/ojvy5qk/", "content": "That's just counting weekends. You're leaving out common holidays, some sick days, and vacation.\n People in this sub generally aren't working some menial job and I expect that they have a normal professional arrangement." }, { "id": "t1_ojvfcek", "author": "/u/steveo242", "updated": "2026-05-04T14:30:21+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t3hhmc/36m_with_800k_making_minimum_wage_off_interest/ojvfcek/", "content": "Divide by 8 instead of 24 for a legit “wage” comparison and it triples to $22. Not terrible. Even better when you look at 5 days a week instead of 7." }, { "id": "t1_ojviqd4", "author": "/u/poop-dolla", "updated": "2026-05-04T14:46:00+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t3hhmc/36m_with_800k_making_minimum_wage_off_interest/ojviqd4/", "content": "Just divide the annual amount by 2000 if you want to get a normal hourly wage from it." }, { "id": "t1_ojw3iqk", "author": "/u/Effective_Act_7070", "updated": "2026-05-04T16:19:46+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t3hhmc/36m_with_800k_making_minimum_wage_off_interest/ojw3iqk/", "content": "Shouldn’t it be 2080 instead of 2000 ?" }, { "id": "t1_ojw4fjp", "author": "/u/poop-dolla", "updated": "2026-05-04T16:23:52+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t3hhmc/36m_with_800k_making_minimum_wage_off_interest/ojw4fjp/", "content": "Most people don’t work all 52 weeks each year, and 2000 is a more round, easy number." }, { "id": "t1_ojw71rz", "author": "/u/Effective_Act_7070", "updated": "2026-05-04T16:35:43+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t3hhmc/36m_with_800k_making_minimum_wage_off_interest/ojw71rz/", "content": "But they still get paid for it as PTO correct ?\n I understand the 2000 is more round and easier to remember" }, { "id": "t1_ojw9il6", "author": "/u/poop-dolla", "updated": "2026-05-04T16:46:58+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t3hhmc/36m_with_800k_making_minimum_wage_off_interest/ojw9il6/", "content": "It’s just to get an estimate, and 2000 makes that easy. That’s the main reason.\n To answer your question though, do most hourly minimum wage workers get actual paid time off? And a full two weeks worth? Maybe they do, but I’d guess a lot or most of them don’t." }, { "id": "t1_ok1qeup", "author": "/u/twt69", "updated": "2026-05-05T12:37:53+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t3hhmc/36m_with_800k_making_minimum_wage_off_interest/ok1qeup/", "content": "I’ve always just used 2080" }, { "id": "t1_ok1wjox", "author": "/u/poop-dolla", "updated": "2026-05-05T13:10:21+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t3hhmc/36m_with_800k_making_minimum_wage_off_interest/ok1wjox/", "content": "That’s fine. Can you do 2080 quickly in your head like you can with 2000 though?" }, { "id": "t1_ok21v34", "author": "/u/Effective_Act_7070", "updated": "2026-05-05T13:37:12+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t3hhmc/36m_with_800k_making_minimum_wage_off_interest/ok21v34/", "content": "I can barely do 2 in my head let alone 2000 lol" }, { "id": "t1_ok24tkp", "author": "/u/poop-dolla", "updated": "2026-05-05T13:51:46+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t3hhmc/36m_with_800k_making_minimum_wage_off_interest/ok24tkp/", "content": "If you can do 2, then you can do 2000. Just round or drop the last 3 digits and then divide by 2. So if it’s $64000 a year, then you drop it to $64 and then divide by 2 to get $32/hr. Thats why it makes sense to use 2000 instead of 2080. Using 2000 is extremely easy for a mental math estimate." }, { "id": "t1_ok2751b", "author": "/u/twt69", "updated": "2026-05-05T14:02:57+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t3hhmc/36m_with_800k_making_minimum_wage_off_interest/ok2751b/", "content": "No I always take two seconds to type it in my calculator haha" }, { "id": "t1_ok80peo", "author": "/u/spiritsarise", "updated": "2026-05-06T10:02:08+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t3hhmc/36m_with_800k_making_minimum_wage_off_interest/ok80peo/", "content": "Why do you need to do it so fast…in your head? Use a calculator. Takes a few seconds!" }, { "id": "t1_ok0634m", "author": "/u/Porky5CO", "updated": "2026-05-05T05:06:05+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t3hhmc/36m_with_800k_making_minimum_wage_off_interest/ok0634m/", "content": "Yup, that's what I do. It's way more accurate. People use sick or leave time even if they don't work, at least the . majority do." }, { "id": "t1_ok2dcbq", "author": "/u/onefreshsoulplease", "updated": "2026-05-05T14:31:57+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t3hhmc/36m_with_800k_making_minimum_wage_off_interest/ok2dcbq/", "content": "Yes, this is correct. 2080 is the number used to translate an annual salary to a full time hourly rate." }, { "id": "t1_ok80joh", "author": "/u/spiritsarise", "updated": "2026-05-06T10:00:49+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t3hhmc/36m_with_800k_making_minimum_wage_off_interest/ok80joh/", "content": "It’s normal to use 2080, yes." }, { "id": "t1_ojv808k", "author": "/u/gloriousrepublic", "updated": "2026-05-04T13:55:26+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t3hhmc/36m_with_800k_making_minimum_wage_off_interest/ojv808k/", "content": "So even if we use the 4% rule as something that would be sustainable, that’s 32k/yr.\n But if instead of using 24/365, we use 52 weeks a year and 40 hours a week to represent a full time job, that’s still a $15/hr." }, { "id": "t1_ojwkbk4", "author": "/u/notyourbroguy", "updated": "2026-05-04T17:34:26+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t3hhmc/36m_with_800k_making_minimum_wage_off_interest/ojwkbk4/", "content": "The 4% rule relates to the safe withdrawal rate, but OP is not talking about that. They’re talking about the anticipated average growth of their portfolio, so depending on their investment decisions 7-8% is a reasonable estimate." }, { "id": "t1_ojxhasb", "author": "/u/gloriousrepublic", "updated": "2026-05-04T20:03:45+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t3hhmc/36m_with_800k_making_minimum_wage_off_interest/ojxhasb/", "content": "Yes, I know - I was just trying to show that even if you wanted to go more conservative, retiring now would still yield more than a minimum wage fulltime job. Just another way to look at it." }, { "id": "t1_ojv2043", "author": "/u/HappilyGolden", "updated": "2026-05-04T13:24:54+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t3hhmc/36m_with_800k_making_minimum_wage_off_interest/ojv2043/", "content": "wild to think about it like that. your money basically working harder than most people since it never takes breaks or calls in sick\n though kinda depressing that minimum wage is still same as when you were teen - shows how broken things are when your investments grow faster than actual wages" }, { "id": "t1_ojx1rds", "author": "/u/Aggravating_Bear_283", "updated": "2026-05-04T18:52:14+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t3hhmc/36m_with_800k_making_minimum_wage_off_interest/ojx1rds/", "content": "Seems like you're conflating minimum wage growth with actual wage growth, but they are not the same" }, { "id": "t1_ojv5xw6", "author": "/u/escobartholomew", "updated": "2026-05-04T13:45:08+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t3hhmc/36m_with_800k_making_minimum_wage_off_interest/ojv5xw6/", "content": "Way more than min wage lol. 800k * 0.08 =64 K" }, { "id": "t1_ojv7nsk", "author": "/u/Ill_Savings_8338", "updated": "2026-05-04T13:53:43+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t3hhmc/36m_with_800k_making_minimum_wage_off_interest/ojv7nsk/", "content": "$7.30 cents an hour, how is that "way more than minimum wage"?" }, { "id": "t1_ojveoto", "author": "/u/xlr38", "updated": "2026-05-04T14:27:18+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t3hhmc/36m_with_800k_making_minimum_wage_off_interest/ojveoto/", "content": "If you only worked 40/hr weeks for 64k/yr it’d be $30.76/hr, which believe it or not is “way more than minimum wage”" }, { "id": "t1_ojv9uyj", "author": "/u/steambizzle", "updated": "2026-05-04T14:04:31+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t3hhmc/36m_with_800k_making_minimum_wage_off_interest/ojv9uyj/", "content": "I think the point they are making is no human works over 8000 hours in a year." }, { "id": "t1_ojvdjhx", "author": "/u/Ill_Savings_8338", "updated": "2026-05-04T14:21:58+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t3hhmc/36m_with_800k_making_minimum_wage_off_interest/ojvdjhx/", "content": "Umm, ok, neat?" }, { "id": "t1_ojvfv5b", "author": "/u/Klutzy-Complaint-328", "updated": "2026-05-04T14:32:48+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t3hhmc/36m_with_800k_making_minimum_wage_off_interest/ojvfv5b/", "content": "OP calculated $175 / 24h = $7.3/hr then said it's about the same as a minimum wage worker.\n Minimum wage workers don't work 24 hours a day 7 days a week, so they make much less than $175 per day." }, { "id": "t1_ojvi3hp", "author": "/u/fuckmylifegoddamn", "updated": "2026-05-04T14:43:06+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t3hhmc/36m_with_800k_making_minimum_wage_off_interest/ojvi3hp/", "content": "Your calculation implied they’d be working 24/7, people work significantly less than that" }, { "id": "t1_ojviqef", "author": "/u/Ill_Savings_8338", "updated": "2026-05-04T14:46:00+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t3hhmc/36m_with_800k_making_minimum_wage_off_interest/ojviqef/", "content": "Pretty sure you have to keep the money "working" 24/7 , not sure why we are pretending the money works 8 hour days, you guys are weird, keep downvoting me, lol." }, { "id": "t1_ojvj9bh", "author": "/u/fuckmylifegoddamn", "updated": "2026-05-04T14:48:24+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t3hhmc/36m_with_800k_making_minimum_wage_off_interest/ojvj9bh/", "content": "Because it’s not comparing to the strict money it makes an hour, it’s being compared to a similar job wages man, so it would be compared under the same rules…" }, { "id": "t1_ojvjsxq", "author": "/u/Ill_Savings_8338", "updated": "2026-05-04T14:50:50+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t3hhmc/36m_with_800k_making_minimum_wage_off_interest/ojvjsxq/", "content": "They literally said in their post that it was working 24 hours a day 7 days a week at minimum wage, but yeah, cool, lets compare the money to a human instead." }, { "id": "t1_ojvmj52", "author": "/u/Im_tracer_bullet", "updated": "2026-05-04T15:03:08+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t3hhmc/36m_with_800k_making_minimum_wage_off_interest/ojvmj52/", "content": "Bottom 1% contributor seems incredibly accurate." }, { "id": "t1_ojxld9l", "author": "/u/Nocturnal_Smurf_2424", "updated": "2026-05-04T20:22:35+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t3hhmc/36m_with_800k_making_minimum_wage_off_interest/ojxld9l/", "content": "Lol I expanded this thread to comment on that tag but you beat me to it" }, { "id": "t1_ojya1m8", "author": "/u/ChannelSame4730", "updated": "2026-05-04T22:21:21+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t3hhmc/36m_with_800k_making_minimum_wage_off_interest/ojya1m8/", "content": "I'm curious, who flags an account as a bottom 1% contributor? The mods?" }, { "id": "t1_ojvs9im", "author": "/u/Ill_Savings_8338", "updated": "2026-05-04T15:29:09+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t3hhmc/36m_with_800k_making_minimum_wage_off_interest/ojvs9im/", "content": "That is a personal attack!" }, { "id": "t1_ojv58li", "author": "/u/reubTV", "updated": "2026-05-04T13:41:33+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t3hhmc/36m_with_800k_making_minimum_wage_off_interest/ojv58li/", "content": "Capital gain, not interest, but I get the point" }, { "id": "t1_ojvikl8", "author": "/u/ChannelSame4730", "updated": "2026-05-04T14:45:15+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t3hhmc/36m_with_800k_making_minimum_wage_off_interest/ojvikl8/", "content": "Why are you using 24 hours and 365 days?" }, { "id": "t1_ojvpn5m", "author": "/u/Tough-Relationship28", "updated": "2026-05-04T15:17:20+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t3hhmc/36m_with_800k_making_minimum_wage_off_interest/ojvpn5m/", "content": "Just for fun? I’m not using these to figure out a FIRE number or anything, just an interesting realization" }, { "id": "t1_ojy9b9x", "author": "/u/ChannelSame4730", "updated": "2026-05-04T22:17:25+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t3hhmc/36m_with_800k_making_minimum_wage_off_interest/ojy9b9x/", "content": "You can't possibly work 24 hours a day 365 days a year so it's not correct to say you're making minimum wage. You're making more than 3x minimum wage" }, { "id": "t1_ojz2h78", "author": "/u/Tough-Relationship28", "updated": "2026-05-05T00:59:02+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t3hhmc/36m_with_800k_making_minimum_wage_off_interest/ojz2h78/", "content": "Haha fair. I think you might be taking it a bit more literally than I had intended. Until my little green employees decide to unionize, I’m not too worried about weekends, holidays, or overtime pay. Just a fun way to visualize the concept.\n That said, I do get your point that if you frame it more fairly to my 800,000 little employees it comes out to way more than $7.25." }, { "id": "t1_ojv6n80", "author": "/u/Fun-Confidence-6232", "updated": "2026-05-04T13:48:39+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t3hhmc/36m_with_800k_making_minimum_wage_off_interest/ojv6n80/", "content": "Make money make money" }, { "id": "t1_ojv7q8m", "author": "/u/creepy-farter", "updated": "2026-05-04T13:54:04+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t3hhmc/36m_with_800k_making_minimum_wage_off_interest/ojv7q8m/", "content": "Best investment lesson I got was from an old farmer that was a family friend.\n Put your money to work for you, that way you don’t have to work for your money.\n Also, your employees will keep getting raises every year due to the magic of compounding." }, { "id": "t1_ojwvu7n", "author": "/u/garoodah", "updated": "2026-05-04T18:25:17+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t3hhmc/36m_with_800k_making_minimum_wage_off_interest/ojwvu7n/", "content": "Its better than that because youre earning that 24/7, not for 8 hours and you dont lose the deductions/taxes from it like at work. I have a crazy realization like this almost yearly at this point lol." }, { "id": "t1_ojwyb63", "author": "/u/Tough-Relationship28", "updated": "2026-05-04T18:36:28+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t3hhmc/36m_with_800k_making_minimum_wage_off_interest/ojwyb63/", "content": "These moments blow my mind. It’s crazy what a superpower compounding interest is" }, { "id": "t1_ojwziaw", "author": "/u/garoodah", "updated": "2026-05-04T18:41:58+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t3hhmc/36m_with_800k_making_minimum_wage_off_interest/ojwziaw/", "content": "I'll share my experience this year because I found it so insane, it was just fortunate timing swapping things around before the March selloff, but we basically avoided that dip in our retirement accounts and got to buy in near the lows. Not sure where it'll end today but ytd we're up around 11% which is well past our household income for the year and is about 2x our expenses." }, { "id": "t1_ojxg20u", "author": "/u/Tough-Relationship28", "updated": "2026-05-04T19:58:01+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t3hhmc/36m_with_800k_making_minimum_wage_off_interest/ojxg20u/", "content": "Woah very exciting" }, { "id": "t1_ojv49lr", "author": "/u/AetheraCharm", "updated": "2026-05-04T13:36:34+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t3hhmc/36m_with_800k_making_minimum_wage_off_interest/ojv49lr/", "content": "Your money works harder for you than most minimum wage workers, that's wild" }, { "id": "t1_ojvccym", "author": "/u/kurtslowkarma", "updated": "2026-05-04T14:16:26+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t3hhmc/36m_with_800k_making_minimum_wage_off_interest/ojvccym/", "content": "His money generates more money that work paid at minimum wage. There are plenty of people working hard demanding jobs that only pay minimum wage. Effort expended and wage are not the same thing" }, { "id": "t1_ojv9eg0", "author": "/u/dskippy", "updated": "2026-05-04T14:02:16+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t3hhmc/36m_with_800k_making_minimum_wage_off_interest/ojv9eg0/", "content": "To be fair OPs capital gains income is largely created by the hard work of minimum wage workers. They've just found a way to extract some of those workers productivity from the economy to gain a salary for themselves without working. Just like most of us." }, { "id": "t1_ojv5mqs", "author": "/u/Crazy-Car948", "updated": "2026-05-04T13:43:34+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t3hhmc/36m_with_800k_making_minimum_wage_off_interest/ojv5mqs/", "content": "Retire asap. Life is short" }, { "id": "t1_ojw2vp6", "author": "/u/Tough-Relationship28", "updated": "2026-05-04T16:16:52+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t3hhmc/36m_with_800k_making_minimum_wage_off_interest/ojw2vp6/", "content": "I’ve got a pretty cushy job right now, so our goal is to ride this out until 40 and then re-evaluate. If I hated my job it would be a much different story" }, { "id": "t1_ojw8wvx", "author": "/u/Crazy-Car948", "updated": "2026-05-04T16:44:15+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t3hhmc/36m_with_800k_making_minimum_wage_off_interest/ojw8wvx/", "content": "Understandable" }, { "id": "t1_ojvd4vm", "author": "/u/NoProfessional4650", "updated": "2026-05-04T14:20:02+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t3hhmc/36m_with_800k_making_minimum_wage_off_interest/ojvd4vm/", "content": "Money maketh money. That’s what the whole premise of Thomas Piketty’s book “Capital”" }, { "id": "t1_ok5a9x4", "author": "/u/dogfursweater", "updated": "2026-05-05T22:37:45+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t3hhmc/36m_with_800k_making_minimum_wage_off_interest/ok5a9x4/", "content": "Hence why vive la revolution! Well, at least the billionaires or 9 figure folks. ;)" }, { "id": "t1_ojwx8e4", "author": "/u/rivalrobot", "updated": "2026-05-04T18:31:37+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t3hhmc/36m_with_800k_making_minimum_wage_off_interest/ojwx8e4/", "content": "Disgusting that minimum wage is a paltry $7.25 anywhere" }, { "id": "t1_ojwy5hw", "author": "/u/Tough-Relationship28", "updated": "2026-05-04T18:35:45+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t3hhmc/36m_with_800k_making_minimum_wage_off_interest/ojwy5hw/", "content": "Right?! Apparently it hasn’t changed since 2009" }, { "id": "t1_ojvavfz", "author": "/u/MyWorldIsInsideOut", "updated": "2026-05-04T14:09:25+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t3hhmc/36m_with_800k_making_minimum_wage_off_interest/ojvavfz/", "content": "If I could draw down at 8% and never touch principle, I’d FIRE today." }, { "id": "t1_ojvqutl", "author": "/u/HighClassProletariat", "updated": "2026-05-04T15:22:49+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t3hhmc/36m_with_800k_making_minimum_wage_off_interest/ojvqutl/", "content": "It is really crazy to look at the numbers and how much your money earns you in the market at a certain point. We don't have quite as much in our accounts but they earned us close to $50k last year which is more than my first job did back in the mid-2010s!" }, { "id": "t1_ojw2mta", "author": "/u/Tough-Relationship28", "updated": "2026-05-04T16:15:45+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t3hhmc/36m_with_800k_making_minimum_wage_off_interest/ojw2mta/", "content": "That was a super interesting thing for us too! My first “real” job as a PT I was making 59k, so it’s wild to see an 80k-90k increase just from gains in the money we have invested." }, { "id": "t1_ojw970y", "author": "/u/Casper-1234", "updated": "2026-05-04T16:45:31+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t3hhmc/36m_with_800k_making_minimum_wage_off_interest/ojw970y/", "content": "OP proves that you don't even need 5th grade maths skills to save 800k" }, { "id": "t1_ok5jlfb", "author": "/u/No_Visual_1678", "updated": "2026-05-05T23:28:42+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t3hhmc/36m_with_800k_making_minimum_wage_off_interest/ok5jlfb/", "content": "Op is truly unironically an inspiration" }, { "id": "t1_ojwi7wo", "author": "/u/MechEngr_David", "updated": "2026-05-04T17:25:11+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t3hhmc/36m_with_800k_making_minimum_wage_off_interest/ojwi7wo/", "content": "This is interesting to me because yeah your “money” is making more money. But in reality it’s all of us still working that are creating more value for the economy than we get paid. So your “army of little green employees” is really just the workforce of the US (or whatever your invested in)" }, { "id": "t1_ojyuldg", "author": "/u/KLKCAhBoy90", "updated": "2026-05-05T00:14:40+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t3hhmc/36m_with_800k_making_minimum_wage_off_interest/ojyuldg/", "content": "Congrats and well done!!" }, { "id": "t1_ojz0o3x", "author": "/u/Tough-Relationship28", "updated": "2026-05-05T00:48:55+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t3hhmc/36m_with_800k_making_minimum_wage_off_interest/ojz0o3x/", "content": "Thank you" }, { "id": "t1_ojva34b", "author": "/u/DrGrapeist", "updated": "2026-05-04T14:05:37+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t3hhmc/36m_with_800k_making_minimum_wage_off_interest/ojva34b/", "content": "Or 80k at 10% interest a year which is the median household income for the USA. More like what a 110-140k employee makes after taxes." }, { "id": "t1_ojvj9d0", "author": "/u/quietly_compounding", "updated": "2026-05-04T14:48:24+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t3hhmc/36m_with_800k_making_minimum_wage_off_interest/ojvj9d0/", "content": "Love this - so many influencers say you can’t get wealthy off of a W-2, but you are proving them wrong!\n These calculations are what motivate me to keep saving and moving forward!" }, { "id": "t1_ojwega0", "author": "/u/Junior-Appointment93", "updated": "2026-05-04T17:08:44+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t3hhmc/36m_with_800k_making_minimum_wage_off_interest/ojwega0/", "content": "Just Drip and eventually it well grow. You could also look into SPYI and QQQI for an extra boost.," }, { "id": "t1_ojwiqvh", "author": "/u/Technical_Month_7479", "updated": "2026-05-04T17:27:31+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t3hhmc/36m_with_800k_making_minimum_wage_off_interest/ojwiqvh/", "content": "That is an awesome milestone and a great way to visualize compound growth but remember the IRS will eventually want a cut of those little green employees wages depending on how that money is invested\n If that 800k is sitting in a standard taxable brokerage account and that 8 percent comes from dividends or you sell to lock in the gains you will owe capital gains tax which is usually 15 percent for most people\n But if those gains are unrealized just growing in the background without you selling or if that money is parked inside a retirement account like a Roth IRA or 401k those daily wages are completely shielded from current taxes so your army gets to keep working without the government taking a daily slice.\n As your portfolio continues to grow tax efficiency becomes just as critical as your rate of return so keeping an eye on asset location will protect your profits." }, { "id": "t1_ojxopoe", "author": "/u/Catspiration2", "updated": "2026-05-04T20:37:35+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t3hhmc/36m_with_800k_making_minimum_wage_off_interest/ojxopoe/", "content": "Leggo!!! Great visual" }, { "id": "t1_ojzhlrx", "author": "/u/FPswammer", "updated": "2026-05-05T02:23:45+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t3hhmc/36m_with_800k_making_minimum_wage_off_interest/ojzhlrx/", "content": "I like to think of clones of myself. and when my clone army is strong enough to carry me, I can stop trying so hard. but also means I'll be killing a clone, or trading a clone for large purchases..." }, { "id": "t1_ok1rby7", "author": "/u/Own-League1617", "updated": "2026-05-05T12:42:59+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t3hhmc/36m_with_800k_making_minimum_wage_off_interest/ok1rby7/", "content": "yeah which is why delayed gratification is worth so much, everytime you spend money it could have been invested instead for more freedom down the line" }, { "id": "t1_ok1s3e7", "author": "/u/Aggravating_Note_572", "updated": "2026-05-05T12:47:08+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t3hhmc/36m_with_800k_making_minimum_wage_off_interest/ok1s3e7/", "content": "I don’t look at the increase in returns as much since I’ve lived through many down or flat years, but I do calculate div/cap/interest annually - hits a little different, since it compounds. I was about 65k in 2025, $178 a day. I’m learning a little more towards value etf’s, I have max of 4y left working, I’ve been allocating more towards value then growth the last couple of years" }, { "id": "t1_oko03xi", "author": "/u/Complete-Actuator602", "updated": "2026-05-08T16:26:59+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t3hhmc/36m_with_800k_making_minimum_wage_off_interest/oko03xi/", "content": "This is such a good example of why compounding feels boring…until suddenly it doesn’t.\n The crazy part is that the portfolio is now effectively “working” every hour without clocking out, asking for raises, or taking vacations. Framing it against your first minimum wage job makes the progress feel tangible in a way percentages usually don’t." }, { "id": "t1_ojvozgu", "author": "/u/MurkyTrainer7953", "updated": "2026-05-04T15:14:19+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t3hhmc/36m_with_800k_making_minimum_wage_off_interest/ojvozgu/", "content": "Sometimes your little employees cost you money." }, { "id": "t1_ojwl3zg", "author": "/u/notyourbroguy", "updated": "2026-05-04T17:37:53+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t3hhmc/36m_with_800k_making_minimum_wage_off_interest/ojwl3zg/", "content": "Just like real life lol" }, { "id": "t1_ok1kqpj", "author": "/u/RetiredCherryPicker", "updated": "2026-05-05T12:05:01+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t3hhmc/36m_with_800k_making_minimum_wage_off_interest/ok1kqpj/", "content": "True, but that isn't exactly interest" }, { "id": "t1_ok4maoe", "author": "/u/sdbest", "updated": "2026-05-05T20:38:28+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t3hhmc/36m_with_800k_making_minimum_wage_off_interest/ok4maoe/", "content": "Just curious, why you've invested your $800K in financial instruments that only return 8% per annum and just minimum wage. Goodness, I'm aware of some ETFs that would give you over $18,000/month in income." }, { "id": "t1_ok4noj3", "author": "/u/PRrock99", "updated": "2026-05-05T20:44:47+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t3hhmc/36m_with_800k_making_minimum_wage_off_interest/ok4noj3/", "content": "Market returns aren’t interest, but ok." }, { "id": "t1_ok5boad", "author": "/u/LoudStatus1316", "updated": "2026-05-05T22:45:37+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t3hhmc/36m_with_800k_making_minimum_wage_off_interest/ok5boad/", "content": "Congrats!" }, { "id": "t1_ok5mwat", "author": "/u/mewalrus2", "updated": "2026-05-05T23:46:44+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t3hhmc/36m_with_800k_making_minimum_wage_off_interest/ok5mwat/", "content": "Let it compound, don't touch it." }, { "id": "t1_ok5pb9a", "author": "/u/Str-Engr0275", "updated": "2026-05-06T00:00:18+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t3hhmc/36m_with_800k_making_minimum_wage_off_interest/ok5pb9a/", "content": "Ive already made more in my investments this year to date than I will all year at my $175k salary job. If I could lock in an 8% annual return I would pull the trigger right now at 51." }, { "id": "t1_ok6wxqn", "author": "/u/Tough-Relationship28", "updated": "2026-05-06T04:24:34+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t3hhmc/36m_with_800k_making_minimum_wage_off_interest/ok6wxqn/", "content": "That really is amazing! I just looked too and I’m at like 115k gains for the year so far." }, { "id": "t1_ok5zg5r", "author": "/u/Various_Couple_764", "updated": "2026-05-06T00:59:19+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t3hhmc/36m_with_800k_making_minimum_wage_off_interest/ok5zg5r/", "content": "The problem is that growth index funds don't generate cash. so you have to sell shares. some People do that but there are risks.\n Other invest for dividends some funds and stock pay out a portion of their profit or earnings to shareholders as cash. The chas is typically reinvested. In retirment regiment account reinvesting is typically the only option because you cannot withdrrawal money until age 60.\n But some people including myself do it in a taxable account. You have to be careful and use funds that generate less tax on the dividends. But that said I am currently getting 6k a month off income fromdividends. Enough to cover all of my living expenses. I retired in my 50s.\n Some funds you can use to do this are QQQI 13%, SPYI 11%EMO 9%UTF 7%, UTG 6.4% All of these funds have yields just below or higher than the 9% number you used. So with 800K you could get 64K a year of income and possibly up to 80zk a year.\n I would look at Armchair income on youtube. He is retired and invests for dividends. He does detailed review of funds. Many of which are in his protfolio list which is available and occasional does other informative videos." }, { "id": "t1_ok6sift", "author": "/u/PrestigiousShift134", "updated": "2026-05-06T03:53:02+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t3hhmc/36m_with_800k_making_minimum_wage_off_interest/ok6sift/", "content": "8 percent is optimistic" }, { "id": "t1_okde4wv", "author": "/u/Yammer1", "updated": "2026-05-07T02:15:11+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t3hhmc/36m_with_800k_making_minimum_wage_off_interest/okde4wv/", "content": "No, it is not. Since 1930, the S&P500 has a CAGR of 10%." }, { "id": "t1_okej3rx", "author": "/u/PrestigiousShift134", "updated": "2026-05-07T07:11:56+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t3hhmc/36m_with_800k_making_minimum_wage_off_interest/okej3rx/", "content": "US outperformance does not mean future outperformance. I prefer to look at the entire world which is 6-7%." }, { "id": "t1_okfx3sk", "author": "/u/Yammer1", "updated": "2026-05-07T13:16:04+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t3hhmc/36m_with_800k_making_minimum_wage_off_interest/okfx3sk/", "content": "You can prefer whatever you want. Does not change the fact that 8% is very achievable in the market. A 100yr trend line is sufficient to suggest that." }, { "id": "t1_ojvi7nu", "author": "/u/OkEssay4173", "updated": "2026-05-04T14:43:38+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t3hhmc/36m_with_800k_making_minimum_wage_off_interest/ojvi7nu/", "content": "Wow, OP making minimum wage too when he is sleeping. Definite can RE" }, { "id": "t1_ojxm8gw", "author": "/u/Local-Virus-3889", "updated": "2026-05-04T20:26:31+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t3hhmc/36m_with_800k_making_minimum_wage_off_interest/ojxm8gw/", "content": "Own A Home? What State" }, { "id": "t1_ojxuavz", "author": "/u/Tough-Relationship28", "updated": "2026-05-04T21:02:48+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t3hhmc/36m_with_800k_making_minimum_wage_off_interest/ojxuavz/", "content": "Yeah we own. About 200k left on our mortgage (but only paying 1500 a month since we bought before covid and refinanced at 2.9%). I’m in WI" }, { "id": "t1_ojv90n1", "author": "/u/fenton7", "updated": "2026-05-04T14:00:24+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t3hhmc/36m_with_800k_making_minimum_wage_off_interest/ojv90n1/", "content": "It's not really a fair comparison, though, because minimum wage is guaranteed, a riskless investment, if you put in the hours whereas the stock market occasionally experiences a decade with flat returns. 2000 through 2010 leaps to mind. A better comparison, between wages and portfolio, is to look at how much a safe 3% draw produces." }, { "id": "t1_ojvg4j2", "author": "/u/Dunnowhathatis", "updated": "2026-05-04T14:34:01+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t3hhmc/36m_with_800k_making_minimum_wage_off_interest/ojvg4j2/", "content": "minimum wage is NOT guaranteed.... you could loose your job, you could loose a leg, etc and never be able to work again." }, { "id": "t1_ojvllbf", "author": "/u/fenton7", "updated": "2026-05-04T14:58:50+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t3hhmc/36m_with_800k_making_minimum_wage_off_interest/ojvllbf/", "content": "Sure but 8% on a $800k investment is also wildly far from guaranteed. The highest yielding riskless investment is a treasury bill yielding 4.4%. With inflation running at 3.3% that means your real income owning a 10 year treasury is about 1.1% or $8800 a year, which is the equivalent of $4.23 an hour. State minimum wages are also often higher than federal so, depending on your state, you could get more than $7.25. $11-$18. And even in states that don't have a state minimum the "market minimum", what fast food places are actually paying, is often much higher than the federal minimum. And, for disability, SSDI provides you a backstop although, admittedly, it's hard to file and get approved. You will be approved, though, for most real disabilities that physically prevent you from working." } ] }, { "source": "r/Fire top month", "id": "t3_1togwy2", "title": "Saved $2.4M by 38. Would you Retire?", "author": "/u/TwoSocialist", "updated": "2026-05-26T19:09:56+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/", "content": "Hey FIRE folks,\n I’m 38, tired, and fueled almost entirely by spite and index funds. I’ve somehow ended up with a portfolio that looks like this:\n Split by type:\n - ETFs — 58.30% — $1.45M\n - Mutual Funds — 27.66% — $688k\n - Individual Stocks — 8.71% — $216k\n - Crypto — 3.00% — $74k (aka my “emotional rollercoaster” bucket)\n - Cash — 2.33% — $58k\n Split by bucket:\n Retirement Pre-tax: 700k\n Retirement post-tax: 310k\n Brokerage: 1.5 M\n Grand total: ~$2,490,900\n Today’s gain: ~$40,000 (aka “more than my first job paid in a year,” but sure, totally normal)\n ~~~~\n My target spend was $100k/year, which feels somehow not enough because capitalism has melted my brain.\n By the 4% rule, I’m basically at the line. By the 3% rule, I’m a peasant. By the “FIRE comment section” rule, I’m probably both overspending and undersaving simultaneously.\n So, wise internet strangers:\n - Am I actually FIRE‑ready, or is this the part where you all tell me to work 5 more years “just to be safe”?\n - Is my allocation fine, or should I be preparing for a lecture on safe withdrawal rates and sequence‑of‑returns doom?\n - Is it normal to feel like I need permission from Reddit to stop working?\n Married, 1 kid. Received about 25k for a house (not included in above) and 20k for college, no other inheritance.\n Currently make about 250k a year for the past 4 years, before that about 150k. I started at 50k.\n Thanks in advance for validating or crushing my dreams.\n submitted by /u/TwoSocialist\n [link] [comments]", "contentHtml": "

Hey FIRE folks,

I’m 38, tired, and fueled almost entirely by spite and index funds. I’ve somehow ended up with a portfolio that looks like this:

Split by type:

- ETFs — 58.30% — $1.45M

- Mutual Funds — 27.66% — $688k

- Individual Stocks — 8.71% — $216k

- Crypto — 3.00% — $74k (aka my “emotional rollercoaster” bucket)

- Cash — 2.33% — $58k

Split by bucket:

Retirement Pre-tax: 700k

Retirement post-tax: 310k

Brokerage: 1.5 M

Grand total: ~$2,490,900

Today’s gain: ~$40,000 (aka “more than my first job paid in a year,” but sure, totally normal)

~~~~

My target spend was $100k/year, which feels somehow not enough because capitalism has melted my brain.

By the 4% rule, I’m basically at the line. By the 3% rule, I’m a peasant. By the “FIRE comment section” rule, I’m probably both overspending and undersaving simultaneously.

So, wise internet strangers:

- Am I actually FIRE‑ready, or is this the part where you all tell me to work 5 more years “just to be safe”?

- Is my allocation fine, or should I be preparing for a lecture on safe withdrawal rates and sequence‑of‑returns doom?

- Is it normal to feel like I need permission from Reddit to stop working?

Married, 1 kid. Received about 25k for a house (not included in above) and 20k for college, no other inheritance.

Currently make about 250k a year for the past 4 years, before that about 150k. I started at 50k.

Thanks in advance for validating or crushing my dreams.

submitted by /u/TwoSocialist
[link] [comments]", "comments": [ { "id": "t1_oo11lek", "author": "/u/FIMilestonesDeux", "updated": "2026-05-26T19:14:45+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oo11lek/", "content": "I would "retire" from working for money and look to get a job doing something you really want to do, where the money is not the goal." }, { "id": "t1_oo128c6", "author": "/u/TwoSocialist", "updated": "2026-05-26T19:17:39+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oo128c6/", "content": "I want to quit my job and start developing games or create my own company.\n It seems like these are both money pits though.\n And if I can't do either of those - I'd rather not work." }, { "id": "t1_oo1a6g6", "author": "/u/Neo-Armadillo", "updated": "2026-05-26T19:53:46+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oo1a6g6/", "content": "I retired three years ago at 36. For the first year, I didn’t do much of anything except hang out with my family, spend every day with kiddo.\n Year 2, things changed. I made the most advanced speed reader on the Internet, HotGato. I wrote and published four science fiction novels. Partnered with researchers to develop a dementia early detection Webapp. Joined two volunteer boards, and I’m a committee chair for one of them. Landscaped the entire yard myself.\n Year 3 is off to a good start. Submitted the family for dual citizenship by descent. Filed a utility patent and now I am manufacturing the product. Built a SaaS (haven’t started doing sales yet). I’m upholstering a chair right now.\n It took a while to shake off the mental shackles of employment, but once I did, the amount of creative energy that began to flow has been shocking. This list is probably 10% of what I’ve accomplished, and omits all the things I’ve learned or hundreds of books I’ve read.\n This is what life should be." }, { "id": "t1_oo1kf19", "author": "/u/BillyBobChorton", "updated": "2026-05-26T20:40:14+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oo1kf19/", "content": "Here’s the thing, instead of writing 4 novels, reading hundreds of books, creating multiple potential billion dollar patened inventions etc, I’ll probably just get drunk and fat(er) and binge watch Netflix" }, { "id": "t1_oo1ppng", "author": "/u/Neo-Armadillo", "updated": "2026-05-26T21:04:22+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oo1ppng/", "content": "Yeah that was year 1. Corporate life causes depression. Shake it off and you’ll feel better." }, { "id": "t1_oo1xbup", "author": "/u/JackTheManiacTR", "updated": "2026-05-26T21:40:26+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oo1xbup/", "content": "Counterpoint: I retired early and spent most of my time in bars and hanging out watching Netflix or playing games. I spent all my money and now I work in a warehouse because I wasn't able to get a job back in tech. This lasted 4 years instead of the prescribed 1." }, { "id": "t1_oo208t1", "author": "/u/Fit_Major9789", "updated": "2026-05-26T21:54:38+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oo208t1/", "content": "Thank you for being candid, this is literally my feared trajectory. I’m pretty sure my spouse would end up divorcing me, so maybe year 1 is better spent on rehab and therapy when I pull the FIRE trigger.\n E: btw, I’m sorry to hear that’s how things panned out for you. Hopefully you’re working towards being in a better place." }, { "id": "t1_oo2q0lc", "author": "/u/beerbaron105", "updated": "2026-05-27T00:11:36+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oo2q0lc/", "content": "stick to a routine\n don't hit the bottle, don't socialize only at bars, you'll be fine." }, { "id": "t1_oo2sufl", "author": "/u/Fit_Major9789", "updated": "2026-05-27T00:27:13+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oo2sufl/", "content": "While I totally agree with the principle of the advice, that’s not quite how living with addiction works.\n Breaking patterns ends up being quite challenging. More often than not, sticking to simple rules and routine tend to be easier said than done. Hence the focus on therapy and rehabilitation early on in the retirement journey." }, { "id": "t1_oo36ram", "author": "/u/Conscious_Life_8032", "updated": "2026-05-27T01:42:14+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oo36ram/", "content": "Work on new structures and routines prior to retirement" }, { "id": "t1_oo51n9y", "author": "/u/OuiGotTheFunk", "updated": "2026-05-27T09:35:47+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oo51n9y/", "content": "I do not only socialize at bars but my bar has helped me so much with getting things done. It is weird how I can get people to help me do anything or know someone that can do something. Roofer, AC guy, car help off the top of my head. I do not talk about my finances though and I used to go a couple of days a week but now maybe one day a week.\n I literally have a budget for my bar and I only pay in cash, which is pretty much all of my non-mortgage budget is cash only" }, { "id": "t1_oo70404", "author": "/u/PsylentKnight", "updated": "2026-05-27T15:53:57+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oo70404/", "content": "So your intention was to retire permanently and the money only lasted 4 years? Did you completely run out or did you just reach a point where you knew it couldn't last? How much were you spending per year?" }, { "id": "t1_oo46exq", "author": "/u/Plastic-Anteater3086", "updated": "2026-05-27T05:18:50+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oo46exq/", "content": "Ah a man of culture I see" }, { "id": "t1_oofzgvc", "author": "/u/Bad_Mechanic", "updated": "2026-05-28T20:38:05+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oofzgvc/", "content": "Hey man, you do you. Chase what makes you happy." }, { "id": "t1_oomdkdx", "author": "/u/SexualChocolate1989", "updated": "2026-05-29T18:38:20+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oomdkdx/", "content": "This is also an option 😅" }, { "id": "t1_oo1sw3o", "author": "/u/SadieGeorge01", "updated": "2026-05-26T21:19:12+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oo1sw3o/", "content": "That’s what I’m doing! Unless I’m traveling (which is a good bit)." }, { "id": "t1_ooa2b84", "author": "/u/Maleficent-Lack-3023", "updated": "2026-05-28T00:25:50+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/ooa2b84/", "content": "that sounds like a horrible life!!" }, { "id": "t1_op4pz28", "author": "/u/Strazdas1", "updated": "2026-06-01T14:09:22+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/op4pz28/", "content": "And thats completely fine if thats what brings you joy." }, { "id": "t1_oo1lvhx", "author": "/u/TheMurmuring", "updated": "2026-05-26T20:46:51+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oo1lvhx/", "content": "That's someone who knows how to "retire." Chilling on the beach with a mojito sounds boring af.\n I want to learn to paint like some of my favorite artists. I want to write novels. I want to finish a video game. I want to learn carpentry. I want to landscape my back yard into something beautiful that also helps animal and insect populations. I want to restore a classic Mustang. I want to explore the hexagonal basalt formations in Iceland. I want to train my voice so I can sing better. I want to learn how to juggle 5 things. I want to learn Japanese and Spanish." }, { "id": "t1_oo1py55", "author": "/u/Neo-Armadillo", "updated": "2026-05-26T21:05:28+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oo1py55/", "content": "Absolutely! But yo, you can start some of those on your lunch hour now. ❤️" }, { "id": "t1_oo1rbr6", "author": "/u/Rambo2521", "updated": "2026-05-26T21:11:55+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oo1rbr6/", "content": "You can technically, but for me at least the job mentally drains me to the point where even if I have the time, my headspace and energy is nowhere high enough." }, { "id": "t1_oo2d8ar", "author": "/u/TheMurmuring", "updated": "2026-05-26T23:02:47+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oo2d8ar/", "content": "Yeah I've started half of them. But they're all just starts." }, { "id": "t1_oo2luxz", "author": "/u/Neo-Armadillo", "updated": "2026-05-26T23:49:03+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oo2luxz/", "content": "If we never finish learning, every day is the start." }, { "id": "t1_oo9e10s", "author": "/u/No_Match8210", "updated": "2026-05-27T22:14:41+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oo9e10s/", "content": "Truth!" }, { "id": "t1_oo1g4w7", "author": "/u/Mmmoreplees", "updated": "2026-05-26T20:20:53+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oo1g4w7/", "content": "You should do an AMA or something - Are you expecting to expand income? what were your savings like before you FIRE'd?" }, { "id": "t1_oo1pbfd", "author": "/u/Neo-Armadillo", "updated": "2026-05-26T21:02:31+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oo1pbfd/", "content": "My retirement was not consensual. I climbed the ladder too fast and got myself stuck where I was both overqualified and underqualified for everything. I negotiated myself a very comfortable severance package that got me to my *minimum* retirement number, just $500 K, and even while living on savings, my portfolio has increased in value by about 40%. I guess technically you could say my job now is as an investor. But I’m only hopping on to make changes twice a year unless something crazy happens like a president gets kidnapped to benefit oil companies. Regardless, frugality is key.\n One of the great perks of being on boards is they will pay for me to go to conferences, which means I get free family vacations to resorts twice per year per board.\n None of my stuff makes any money except the investments, but I’m building up a pretty considerable portfolio possible revenue streams if ever I decide to put my foot down.\n Not interesting enough for AMA, but my family is happy." }, { "id": "t1_oo2jkt6", "author": "/u/MissBlossomz", "updated": "2026-05-26T23:36:43+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oo2jkt6/", "content": "You retired on 500K? Where do you live!" }, { "id": "t1_oo2ld38", "author": "/u/Neo-Armadillo", "updated": "2026-05-26T23:46:21+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oo2ld38/", "content": "LCOL USA lol it’s tight, but the numbers keep going up." }, { "id": "t1_oo2tubd", "author": "/u/Roshambo104", "updated": "2026-05-27T00:32:41+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oo2tubd/", "content": "Yikes, that's impressive that you've increased the value another 40% even with you spending. But you haven't experienced a true bear market or crash since living off the portfolio. I hope you practice good risk management." }, { "id": "t1_oo38ze0", "author": "/u/Neo-Armadillo", "updated": "2026-05-27T01:53:59+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oo38ze0/", "content": "Yeah there’s always risk, but my early retirement was not consensual. I was under qualified to get another VP job, overqualified for anything director or below. I only got 18 months in my interim VP job reporting to the chief product officer of a fortune 250 Fintech. Most of my career I ran my own agency, only three years in a corporate office total, split in half at two companies.\n I didn’t want to retire when I did, but after hundreds of applications and only five legitimate interviews (4x VP, 1x Mgr), I had to face reality.\n I’m not expecting there to be much of an economy five years from now, so I’m diversifying and moving assets globally so we should be in OK position no matter what happens." }, { "id": "t1_oo4uoi7", "author": "/u/Remote_Repair394", "updated": "2026-05-27T08:35:57+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oo4uoi7/", "content": "With all these projects, did you manage to make any new income streams? Are those covering your expenses?" }, { "id": "t1_oo2y7xz", "author": "/u/z3r0demize", "updated": "2026-05-27T00:56:19+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oo2y7xz/", "content": "Can you explain more about being on boards? How do you find a good one to join? I have limited technical leadership so not sure if I would be qualified" }, { "id": "t1_oo39cyo", "author": "/u/Neo-Armadillo", "updated": "2026-05-27T01:55:58+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oo39cyo/", "content": "Look at nonprofits. They always want people on their advisory boards." }, { "id": "t1_oo1vbdf", "author": "/u/Forsaken_Opening_835", "updated": "2026-05-26T21:30:46+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oo1vbdf/", "content": "I think people equate “retire” with stopping the “hustle”. I see it as a way to put energy towards what I value and creating." }, { "id": "t1_oo2pp91", "author": "/u/beerbaron105", "updated": "2026-05-27T00:09:52+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oo2pp91/", "content": "This is exactly what I envision retirement as, doing cool side quests, not rotting on a beach, not refusing to retire because I am terrified of the next step -- doing exactly what you are doing is perfect, saving your comment. thanks!!!" }, { "id": "t1_oo2njch", "author": "/u/Sdwingnut", "updated": "2026-05-26T23:58:08+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oo2njch/", "content": "Lazy bastard. Get a real job /s" }, { "id": "t1_oo3afli", "author": "/u/Vecgtt", "updated": "2026-05-27T02:01:40+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oo3afli/", "content": "I also upholstered some chairs recently. It’s fun to create furniture." }, { "id": "t1_oo1wxbf", "author": "/u/pokemon2jk", "updated": "2026-05-26T21:38:28+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oo1wxbf/", "content": "Wow retire at 33 did you sell your start up to one of those mag 7" }, { "id": "t1_oo4ihgc", "author": "/u/ReplacementFar2185", "updated": "2026-05-27T06:52:21+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oo4ihgc/", "content": "Retiring at 33 sounds more like unemployed 😂" }, { "id": "t1_oo36jet", "author": "/u/Conscious_Life_8032", "updated": "2026-05-27T01:41:03+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oo36jet/", "content": "Whoa ! You have been busy" }, { "id": "t1_oo9dpm7", "author": "/u/No_Match8210", "updated": "2026-05-27T22:13:03+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oo9dpm7/", "content": "What a life! Inspiring! Thanks for sharing your story and good luck to you!" }, { "id": "t1_ooi6inn", "author": "/u/yeyeman9", "updated": "2026-05-29T03:49:48+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/ooi6inn/", "content": "This has always been my hope, that once I’m in a more relaxed state I’ll be able to finally sit down and write again. Good for you, you seem to be doing amazingly well. Keep it up!" }, { "id": "t1_oonrxs1", "author": "/u/n3wacc0unt-1", "updated": "2026-05-29T22:41:40+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oonrxs1/", "content": "You're saving so much money upholstering yourself! 😉\n Might be me one day, good on you, cheers!" }, { "id": "t1_ooungyr", "author": "/u/Torshein", "updated": "2026-05-30T23:40:41+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/ooungyr/", "content": "Absolutely jealous of this. I have felt trapped since 2nd grade and just turned 32. Have about another 5-10 years before I can pull the trigger. 8 hours a day pretending to care has been slowly killing me." }, { "id": "t1_oouvqh8", "author": "/u/Neo-Armadillo", "updated": "2026-05-31T00:31:37+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oouvqh8/", "content": "Same. At 32 I was doing contract work and had just shut down my company because the contract paid me 30% more than my business owner take-home for the previous three years. Up to that point, I was still putting every spare dollar into paying down my student loans.\n It went like this: - 31, biz owner, no savings. - 32, contract work, no savings. - 33, contract work, some savings. - Covid hit. - 34, w2 manager, real savings. - 35, w2 manager, real savings. - 36, w2 director, big savings. - 37, w2 director, big savings. - 37.5, retired, medium big savings.\n It happened so fast.\n I was strategic about how I moved. Coming from 10 years of running my own shop, I had no idea how to interview, or how Corporations operated, so my foundation step was to go contract a couple places to learn the basics with no stakes. It worked perfectly. Second was to aim for the largest company possible and take any job available. Third was to grab the leveling guide and see exactly how senior managers and principles and directors are evaluated. Fourth was to frame everything I did through that lens, for presentations and meetings and my own notes on projects and accomplishments. Fifth was to apply at that higher level. I was interviewed for six different director roles coming from a manager level at FAANG.\n From contract to W2 I doubled my compensation. From W2 Manager to Director I doubled it again. The world has changed dramatically in the last few years, but fundamentally there’s nothing special about me or how I did it, I just laid out a plan and executed along it. You can do it too." }, { "id": "t1_ooxwlb0", "author": "/u/Torshein", "updated": "2026-05-31T13:40:14+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/ooxwlb0/", "content": "Great outline I appreciate it! Might have to start looking into jobs/companies I wouldn't normally.\n I struggle on the social/leadership aspect. Always kind of just did my own thing at a very high level but feel like I painted myself into a corner.\n At this point even if my salary doubled or tripled, compounding still likely makes a bigger difference for me. Quick math - 2 years of doubled salary compresses the timeline by 2-4 years.\n Golden handcuffs are real though. I pay next to nothing for healthcare, 30+ days of vacation and I'm 99% remote in a very low stress job.\n For the right opportunity it'd be worth it though...." }, { "id": "t1_ooutr61", "author": "/u/Ok-Bit4971", "updated": "2026-05-31T00:19:29+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/ooutr61/", "content": "Holy crap, I feel like an underachieving slacker now...." }, { "id": "t1_oo2h5bd", "author": "/u/stevencashmere", "updated": "2026-05-26T23:23:45+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oo2h5bd/", "content": "So basically if you find a job you love there’s no point in this lol" }, { "id": "t1_oo2p5pm", "author": "", "updated": "2026-05-27T00:06:53+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oo2p5pm/", "content": "[deleted]" }, { "id": "t1_oo371xu", "author": "/u/Neo-Armadillo", "updated": "2026-05-27T01:43:49+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oo371xu/", "content": "Amazon KDP and B&N Press" }, { "id": "t1_oo38gzv", "author": "", "updated": "2026-05-27T01:51:18+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oo38gzv/", "content": "[deleted]" }, { "id": "t1_oo2uoae", "author": "/u/IsaacandLilith", "updated": "2026-05-27T00:37:13+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oo2uoae/", "content": "sounds amazing man, admired! How much did you save to FIRE?" }, { "id": "t1_oo3xa75", "author": "/u/Playful_Village2196", "updated": "2026-05-27T04:14:50+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oo3xa75/", "content": "So jealous you’re so lucky. Enjoy it" }, { "id": "t1_oo46vsj", "author": "/u/Tall_computer", "updated": "2026-05-27T05:22:18+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oo46vsj/", "content": "You've read hundreds of books in 3 years?" }, { "id": "t1_oo478i1", "author": "/u/Neo-Armadillo", "updated": "2026-05-27T05:24:54+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oo478i1/", "content": "2 or 3 per week, 52 weeks per year, 156*2.5=390. I get the “megapack” collections so I’m spending 0.99 on 50 classics and reading for months." }, { "id": "t1_oo8eddi", "author": "/u/sirwebber", "updated": "2026-05-27T19:29:27+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oo8eddi/", "content": "This is great to hear.\n Were you able to do this all in a remote fashion? Reason I am asking is that we (family of 4) are considering a move to Italy and I’d like to still do more passion / creative pursuits from there." }, { "id": "t1_oo8rbn9", "author": "/u/Neo-Armadillo", "updated": "2026-05-27T20:27:13+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oo8rbn9/", "content": "My only things locked to geography are board meetings and friends." }, { "id": "t1_oo9ttjo", "author": "/u/ResolveConfident3522", "updated": "2026-05-27T23:38:59+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oo9ttjo/", "content": "Citizenship in what country" }, { "id": "t1_oobch7m", "author": "/u/thojanssens1", "updated": "2026-05-28T05:06:38+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oobch7m/", "content": "Where are those sci-fi novels to be found?" }, { "id": "t1_ookjhmj", "author": "/u/JamedSonnyCrocket", "updated": "2026-05-29T13:46:44+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/ookjhmj/", "content": "Yes. And I'd add, you're not retired, you're actively pursuing your interests and working for yourself.\n Retirement and doing nothing is a recipe for disaster. You did it right" }, { "id": "t1_op4q7i4", "author": "/u/Strazdas1", "updated": "2026-06-01T14:10:30+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/op4q7i4/", "content": "You wrote four books that ill assume at least you think are good, yet you want people to read them in the worst possible way - via speedreader?" }, { "id": "t1_oo12uqi", "author": "/u/FIMilestonesDeux", "updated": "2026-05-26T19:20:25+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oo12uqi/", "content": "Games only require being able to code and server costs. Those should be low costs at the start. Starting a business is so open ended, it's hard to say what that would cost upfront." }, { "id": "t1_oo1i3s9", "author": "/u/MattShotts", "updated": "2026-05-26T20:29:45+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oo1i3s9/", "content": "Depends if he plans to build his own 2D/3D models, record all his own audio and music, etc or buy assets instead." }, { "id": "t1_oo1igfe", "author": "/u/FIMilestonesDeux", "updated": "2026-05-26T20:31:20+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oo1igfe/", "content": "That seems like more of just the basics. I'm definitely not game developer so I have no idea what I'm talking about." }, { "id": "t1_oo3iwbk", "author": "/u/tronfacex", "updated": "2026-05-27T02:47:46+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oo3iwbk/", "content": "I make games as a hobby. I think what you bump up against after a few years is the reality that the scope of your creative vision compared to what you can accomplish alone on a reasonable timeline don't really line up.\n Then, you begin wondering how much it would cost to contract someone to do x, y or z and then find out it's gonna cost too much and go back to scope-limited projects that don't fully express your original vision.\n Rinse, repeat." }, { "id": "t1_oo38uz2", "author": "/u/bombycina", "updated": "2026-05-27T01:53:20+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oo38uz2/", "content": "How about those text adventure games that were big in the 1980's?" }, { "id": "t1_oo1ankz", "author": "/u/mal_guinness", "updated": "2026-05-26T19:55:58+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oo1ankz/", "content": "Do you own a home outright? Inflation and rents are a serious liability if you don't" }, { "id": "t1_oobatkf", "author": "/u/Valhallafax", "updated": "2026-05-28T04:54:35+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oobatkf/", "content": "Why do you need to own it outright to hedge inflation or rent" }, { "id": "t1_oom8cny", "author": "/u/mal_guinness", "updated": "2026-05-29T18:15:07+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oom8cny/", "content": "It's no the only way, but rent keeps going up and my mortgage payment stays the same. If you own the house outright all that you pay are property taxes, and a market pullback won't substantially impact your ability to make that payment. If you're paying rent then if the market pulls back you have to sell low to pay your bills vs just cutting back on discretionary spending." }, { "id": "t1_op4tg2h", "author": "/u/TwoSocialist", "updated": "2026-06-01T14:25:57+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/op4tg2h/", "content": "Yes, $120k left on mortgage. $400k equity not counted in the post." }, { "id": "t1_oo14lr8", "author": "/u/FamilyRootsQuest", "updated": "2026-05-26T19:28:18+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oo14lr8/", "content": "If you have time to do everything yourself (which you could if you're retired) I imagine most of your costs for a game would be low for the first couple of years." }, { "id": "t1_oo14dhv", "author": "/u/Anymous2314", "updated": "2026-05-26T19:27:16+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oo14dhv/", "content": "Why is creating games a money pit, what kind of games are we talking about?\n Do you code for a living and have experience in game development?\n I would stay away from creating a company, 95% of businesses fail in first 5 years after a lot of stressful days, will feel worse than working in a job(I have done this and regret it)." }, { "id": "t1_oo16dto", "author": "/u/TwoSocialist", "updated": "2026-05-26T19:36:25+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oo16dto/", "content": "Yes I'm a software engineer but no games experience, mostly web" }, { "id": "t1_oo1zs8x", "author": "/u/Anymous2314", "updated": "2026-05-26T21:52:21+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oo1zs8x/", "content": "What platform do you want to create games for?\n If you like to do web app, why not make web app games?\n What kind of stack in web?\n I had few ideas for simple games but not able to code much due to health issues, else it is so much fun with all the AI tools right now." }, { "id": "t1_oo1musl", "author": "/u/TheMurmuring", "updated": "2026-05-26T20:51:17+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oo1musl/", "content": "Doing it all yourself is exhausting and takes a long time; writing, coding, art, music, design, etc. The faster way to do it is hire people to do some of the jobs. The more people you hire, the faster it gets done, but it takes money. And if you just straight up buy assets created for the purpose of saving time, people accuse you of "asset flipping" which to be fair is a problem." }, { "id": "t1_oo1e5wb", "author": "/u/OpenBorders69", "updated": "2026-05-26T20:11:54+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oo1e5wb/", "content": "We're like the same person, my NW also just crossed 2.5M today and I also want to start my own company. In my early 30s." }, { "id": "t1_oontd9c", "author": "/u/bobacdigital", "updated": "2026-05-29T22:49:27+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oontd9c/", "content": "How did you get to 2.5 million at age 30?!" }, { "id": "t1_oo1p0e5", "author": "/u/Objectdotuser", "updated": "2026-05-26T21:01:07+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oo1p0e5/", "content": "so quit and get a job as a game developer, learn the industry and make connections and in 5 years start your own shop" }, { "id": "t1_op4tgri", "author": "/u/Strazdas1", "updated": "2026-06-01T14:26:03+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/op4tgri/", "content": "5 years as a games developer? most people burn out before that. Its a thankless industry." }, { "id": "t1_oo2pjxm", "author": "/u/OkEase3083", "updated": "2026-05-27T00:09:04+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oo2pjxm/", "content": "Coastfire it for 5 yesrs. Bs job doing whatever for whatever amount for health insurance and tp let your assets compound. Fuck off the whole time. Quit if you want. Drive uber. Who cares.\n Then formalize the games you've been building in your spare life." }, { "id": "t1_oo1lj9p", "author": "/u/Heimdalls_Schnitzel", "updated": "2026-05-26T20:45:20+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oo1lj9p/", "content": "You could go for an easy part time job for the health insurance alone and still have plenty of time to pursue those hobbies. Idk if 2.4 mil is enough." }, { "id": "t1_oouuqhf", "author": "/u/Ok-Bit4971", "updated": "2026-05-31T00:25:32+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oouuqhf/", "content": "What PT jobs provide health insurance?" }, { "id": "t1_oo2g9is", "author": "/u/FrostyMasterpiece400", "updated": "2026-05-26T23:19:03+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oo2g9is/", "content": "If you have infinite free time and Godot it costs nothing bro.\n Get Asesprite for 20$ and follow your dreams.\n Remember that stardew Valley was made by a single person in 4.5 years.\n It's not impossible" }, { "id": "t1_op4toje", "author": "/u/Strazdas1", "updated": "2026-06-01T14:27:04+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/op4toje/", "content": "until you realize you need to contract literally most of the things you do.\n Single developer wonders are extreme rarities. The vast majority of those projects fail." }, { "id": "t1_oo1lkh1", "author": "/u/Heimdalls_Schnitzel", "updated": "2026-05-26T20:45:29+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oo1lkh1/", "content": "You could go for an easy part time job for the health insurance alone and still have plenty of time to pursue those hobbies. Idk if 2.4 mil is enough." }, { "id": "t1_oo3ss6d", "author": "/u/Educational-Face7777", "updated": "2026-05-27T03:46:14+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oo3ss6d/", "content": "You didn’t mention if you’re in a HCOL or LCOL area but judging from the salary, I’m leaning on HCOL. I feel the amount you have is good (not even great these days with inflation and especially your age). If you were about 50 yo, then I’d say go for it. Rationale is because at 38, you’re have so much energy you may hit boredom sooner than you think. Also, assuming (since you didn’t mention) you worked 15-20 years in a job/career, that’s a lot of extra money you lose on Social Security. IMO, $250k isn’t a small amount for many folks but it’s also not as much as it meant 20 years ago. And with a kid and wife (younger or similar age), it seems you can retire but why chance it especially if you can technically work on the side to see whether you can make the game a reality before risking additional money. Another option is taking a sabbatical or additional time off to see how your dream fares and then decide what you ultimately want. Either way, good luck!" }, { "id": "t1_oo7ximq", "author": "/u/gorydamnKids", "updated": "2026-05-27T18:15:56+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oo7ximq/", "content": "Speaking as 36yo someone who took a 2yr sabbatical when they were really close to our FIRE trigger number, I would warn that it is really hard to want to go back to the grind after you realize how good "retirement" feels. Or warn against taking a long sabbatical. I spend all day working on my passion project and have the flexibility to handle when childcare throws a curveball. I think about how stressful the grind was for both myself and my family and have no desire to go back to it. I also have a hard time convincing myself that I need to go back to it.\n I've come to the conclusion that having the flexibility I've had on my sabbatical is what is most important to me rn. I don't mind continuing to work so long as it's flexible. I also take comfort in the realization that retirement is actually a spectrum. We could leanfire now. Or we could continue to coast to fatfire over the next ~5 years." }, { "id": "t1_op4pkxs", "author": "/u/Strazdas1", "updated": "2026-06-01T14:07:28+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/op4pkxs/", "content": "These are money pits. Dont expect any returns. 95% of indie game studios go bancrupt first month of game release because noone buys any copies. And as a game modder myself, i know how disheartening it can be when noone wants to use the thing you poured your soul into." }, { "id": "t1_op4r5ua", "author": "/u/TwoSocialist", "updated": "2026-06-01T14:15:04+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/op4r5ua/", "content": "I don't think I would be expecting any major returns just for it to not suck up all my retirement spending.\n I know I can do it if I don't buy any assets and do the art myself...." }, { "id": "t1_oo19ssn", "author": "/u/fielausm", "updated": "2026-05-26T19:52:02+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oo19ssn/", "content": "Are you doing video games or board games? Cause if it’s the latter I’m a board gamer, and also write Standard Operating Procedures as part of my daily. So I’m nice and nitpicky.\n Whether you FIRE now or not, ping me if you have a good project developed and want some user feedback.\n Obligatory gfys & I'm proud for you." }, { "id": "t1_oo1hqrr", "author": "/u/1DunnoYet", "updated": "2026-05-26T20:28:06+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oo1hqrr/", "content": "So does your retirement plan include $$$ towards either of those pursuits? Or are you truly resigned to not trying either for your entire life" }, { "id": "t1_oo1ul47", "author": "/u/Axel-Adams", "updated": "2026-05-26T21:27:16+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oo1ul47/", "content": "Being an indie developer doesn’t have to cost money if you do it solo" }, { "id": "t1_oo37sbu", "author": "/u/ResponsibleCorgi93", "updated": "2026-05-27T01:47:42+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oo37sbu/", "content": "You can do game dev in a few different ways to optimize for minimal spend.\n Solo dev (takes forever) Game jams - most teams do this for fun Open source projects - work with other people that are working for free" }, { "id": "t1_oo39ggg", "author": "/u/SergeantPoopyWeiner", "updated": "2026-05-27T01:56:29+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oo39ggg/", "content": "Developing a game isn't a money pit if you do it all yourself. It's a time pit. Which is a good thing if it's something you want to spend your time doing." }, { "id": "t1_oo3y0ah", "author": "/u/ApatheticAbsurdist", "updated": "2026-05-27T04:19:39+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oo3y0ah/", "content": "Maybe target 45 for that. At 38 I feel $2.4 mil is a little lower to live completely off the interest (the pessimist in me is expecting some kind of stock market reset at some point… there will probably be a rebound after but I wouldn’t want to be relying on pulling down unless the market makes a little more sense). If you work for 7 more years and keep doing what you’re doing you’ll be in very good shape and should be able to chase your dreams.\n If you really want to retire now, you’re going to have to live pretty cheap and at your age I’d lean towards the 3% rule as you could live to be 90 and you’ll have to keep up with inflation until then." }, { "id": "t1_oo4r3xj", "author": "/u/Keyser-No-Se", "updated": "2026-05-27T08:04:40+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oo4r3xj/", "content": "It’s a great place to be if you want to join an incubator and try to raise capital for your new biz. Since you wont need cash flow to sustain yourself." }, { "id": "t1_oo5q59e", "author": "/u/Lain_Racing", "updated": "2026-05-27T12:18:46+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oo5q59e/", "content": "Lol you are identical to me but 3 years ahead :D gonna follow you, hope to see some game progress over the years. My FIRE number is 2.2mil" }, { "id": "t1_oo62hlo", "author": "/u/FockerXC", "updated": "2026-05-27T13:22:11+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oo62hlo/", "content": "Depending on the software you use to develop games, and if you want to just work at your own pace it could be free/relatively inexpensive to start." }, { "id": "t1_oo6p0fe", "author": "/u/Bruceshadow", "updated": "2026-05-27T15:06:06+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oo6p0fe/", "content": "It seems like these are both money pits though.\n you can do either without risking your money. Either go slow or get funding." }, { "id": "t1_oo6xu77", "author": "/u/cannibalparrot", "updated": "2026-05-27T15:44:20+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oo6xu77/", "content": "Start a stream. Build an audience. Get to the point where that generates some kind of income.\n Quit your job, go full time. Then start working on a game in your spare time.\n Once you get to the point you have a workable mockup, do a Kickstarter, and hopefully your audience will help you out." }, { "id": "t1_oo7m03c", "author": "/u/CheeseOnFries", "updated": "2026-05-27T17:27:33+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oo7m03c/", "content": "I can tell you starting a business especially in software for niche stuff is not that bad right now. I have been building multiple businesses for less than 200 a month in hosting. AI is a force multiplier to getting the development done. If you don’t like sales you shouldn’t do it, though.\n Games might be a little different especially with Steam as a publisher." }, { "id": "t1_oo827n8", "author": "/u/NoRelationship6153", "updated": "2026-05-27T18:36:21+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oo827n8/", "content": "I left tech at 28 with 1.6m saved to pursue starting a game :) if you do the same pm me brother." }, { "id": "t1_oo8gjdn", "author": "/u/CloselyDependent", "updated": "2026-05-27T19:39:05+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oo8gjdn/", "content": "game dev is brutal on cash flow but with 2.4m you could honestly bootstrap a small indie studio and live off portfolio withdrawals while you figure it out" }, { "id": "t1_oo8p64f", "author": "/u/GrimnirDotDev", "updated": "2026-05-27T20:17:34+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oo8p64f/", "content": "Solo indie game dev is not a money pit at all (unless you start outsourcing & commissioning tons of stuff). Start with something small (not an MMORPG), just based on an asset pack or two and see if you like it.\n I'm a programmer turned solo dev and I actually really like making pixel art. Never thought I'd enjoy it since I'm not an artist at all." }, { "id": "t1_oo9lpwc", "author": "/u/Hungry-Churro", "updated": "2026-05-27T22:55:05+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oo9lpwc/", "content": "Honestly, why not explore how much you can pursue these without investing significant cash? Get an AI license, vibe code a bit, and see what you can do without trying to take it too seriously. Start with more bite sized projects and learn your way around it. If you can make money off of those little projects, you've now found your new way to fund your big projects. No reason you can't pursue your passions even casually." }, { "id": "t1_oo9oe84", "author": "/u/throwaway214203", "updated": "2026-05-27T23:09:22+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oo9oe84/", "content": "Bro just start with small games. You gotta learn the engines anyway and that takes time" }, { "id": "t1_ooa7wip", "author": "/u/IntrepidMaybe8579", "updated": "2026-05-28T00:56:22+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/ooa7wip/", "content": "You could make a hobby of growing your favorite cooking ingredients and try selling those" }, { "id": "t1_ooa7xjp", "author": "/u/IntrepidMaybe8579", "updated": "2026-05-28T00:56:30+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/ooa7xjp/", "content": "Or beef jerky!" }, { "id": "t1_oofwxkp", "author": "/u/OriginalShitPoster", "updated": "2026-05-28T20:26:32+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oofwxkp/", "content": "Try wood working. Its a great way to spend your time and you get useful things out of it. I save exactly zero dollars doing it but I produce vastly higher quality items than I can buy at a store.\n Your 2.5M might be enough. Totally depends on your expenses and how you'll sort out Healthcare costs." }, { "id": "t1_ooh536o", "author": "/u/Stock-Turnover-777", "updated": "2026-05-29T00:12:02+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/ooh536o/", "content": "Nothing stopping you from learning unreal engine or any other game engine and developing." }, { "id": "t1_oorj17y", "author": "/u/RavenousBilberry", "updated": "2026-05-30T14:06:55+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oorj17y/", "content": "It's not money pits if you just spend your time, since you still plan doing "nothing"" }, { "id": "t1_op4xom9", "author": "/u/pinkteddy2009", "updated": "2026-06-01T14:45:53+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/op4xom9/", "content": "What type of job are you doing now?" }, { "id": "t1_oo156ey", "author": "/u/BillyBobChorton", "updated": "2026-05-26T19:30:54+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oo156ey/", "content": "The health insurance can be the goal" }, { "id": "t1_oo1t7fq", "author": "/u/Independent-Lion-562", "updated": "2026-05-26T21:20:41+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oo1t7fq/", "content": "On top of this, volunteer to be laid off with HR. Nearly everyone is cutting staff. Maybe you get paid to leave." }, { "id": "t1_oo1q1au", "author": "/u/Intelligent_Lead7724", "updated": "2026-05-26T21:05:52+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oo1q1au/", "content": "Seems like doing something you really like while working for someone else quickly becomes like any other job. We have taken the route of making as much money as possible until we are just totally fed up." }, { "id": "t1_ooa5gew", "author": "/u/FloatingAboutInLyfe", "updated": "2026-05-28T00:43:08+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/ooa5gew/", "content": "This! Find something interesting to do that brings in a bit of income and hopefully health insurance. No need to stop completely... but man, with what you've got, take a few months off and enjoy your family" }, { "id": "t1_ooh6fvw", "author": "/u/lugarshz", "updated": "2026-05-29T00:19:42+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/ooh6fvw/", "content": "...and use that for health insurance" }, { "id": "t1_ooa3vy1", "author": "/u/Hersheydog12388", "updated": "2026-05-28T00:34:31+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/ooa3vy1/", "content": "Train horses to wall dogs" }, { "id": "t1_ooj0jtu", "author": "/u/Ok-Appointment-9381", "updated": "2026-05-29T07:38:31+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/ooj0jtu/", "content": "Game dev's brutal startup costs, but a company could work if you're willing to bootstrap lean and not need income for like 3-5 years." }, { "id": "t1_oo167hx", "author": "/u/Abject-Roof-7631", "updated": "2026-05-26T19:35:37+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oo167hx/", "content": "Let me offer a pov. I'm 59 now looking back wishing I cut ties earlier with work. Instead I became addicted to chasing the money and status dragon. Now my health has taken a hit. 20 years ago id never think about leaving. Knowing what I know now, it's the right question to be asking. Ego only gets you so far. What is it I'm chasing, approval in the eyes of others?" }, { "id": "t1_oo1htez", "author": "/u/wetlsd", "updated": "2026-05-26T20:28:26+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oo1htez/", "content": "Young never get it till the right moment in their life. I had been happy poor and unhappy rich, now somewhere in the middle and Im really grateful to see kids growing under peaceful skies. Unfortunately in twenties to early thirties had focused on unnecessary businesses and money making strategies. Also war distracted me quite, and still ongoing volunteering and integration of war victims around states just become a new life with higher porpoise." }, { "id": "t1_oo5frnp", "author": "/u/UnseenTardigrade", "updated": "2026-05-27T11:17:58+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oo5frnp/", "content": "How high is the porpoise? And how did it get drugged in the first place?" }, { "id": "t1_oo73jwd", "author": "/u/RevolutionaryMap4745", "updated": "2026-05-27T16:08:43+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oo73jwd/", "content": "Do you mind expanding more on your experience? I think many of us who are in their late 30’s and 40’s could appreciate your experience. Also, do you feel that your health issues contribute to continue to work without slowing down?" }, { "id": "t1_oo80q4b", "author": "/u/Abject-Roof-7631", "updated": "2026-05-27T18:29:48+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oo80q4b/", "content": "Yesterday my 25-year-old daughter was home for a visit. When she went to Ball to our Foster dog, she struggled With the toss. I turned to my wife and said I can't believe I never taught her how to throw. My wife at that point said, you were too busy working. Then my daughter chimes in and says don't you remember that I never played sports.\n That example alone should provide color. Now that I'm 59, it's too late to go back in time. It's such a hard balance with career achieving in your thirties and '40s. But I was only program One direction and it showed yesterday." }, { "id": "t1_oo11c9z", "author": "/u/Readditlovesbans", "updated": "2026-05-26T19:13:37+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oo11c9z/", "content": "Yep" }, { "id": "t1_oo14op7", "author": "/u/renee_christine", "updated": "2026-05-26T19:28:41+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oo14op7/", "content": "If I was in OP's boat, no one would ever hear from me again 😅 BYEEEE" }, { "id": "t1_oo1cyao", "author": "/u/Gandalf-and-Frodo", "updated": "2026-05-26T20:06:23+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oo1cyao/", "content": "Nice knowing you guys. If you want to find me I'll be somewhere in the south of Spain on a beach!" }, { "id": "t1_oo12csm", "author": "", "updated": "2026-05-26T19:18:12+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oo12csm/", "content": "[deleted]" }, { "id": "t1_oo13tdk", "author": "/u/undergroundmusic69", "updated": "2026-05-26T19:24:45+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oo13tdk/", "content": "My dude if you come here with a 2.4M portfolio and you say you’re tired, you have permission to hang it up. Enjoy my friend! If you have the itch to work again, you can always go back to the work force. For now, enjoy your new role as a portfolio director for TwoSocialist enterprises 👍🏼." }, { "id": "t1_oo116va", "author": "/u/TheRealTOB", "updated": "2026-05-26T19:12:56+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oo116va/", "content": "You’re definitely past coast. Maybe stick it out till 40 and take another look?" }, { "id": "t1_oo1rlmq", "author": "/u/taterbladeden", "updated": "2026-05-26T21:13:12+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oo1rlmq/", "content": "I am in the exact same situation as OP, and with the similar NW. friends and family keep telling me to work until I am 40, but I was like, I will never be in my 30s. This is the last 2 years of my 30s. I want to stop now so I can enjoy the last 2 years of my 30s." }, { "id": "t1_oo28zq7", "author": "/u/chillPenguin17", "updated": "2026-05-26T22:40:18+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oo28zq7/", "content": "Same here. Thinking I'll give it until right before my 40th, if the numbers are still looking good. RE in your 30s (even barely) is a big accomplishment. Still a lot of fun to be had in our 40s, while also being young enough to get back in the workforce if we end up changing our mind in a couple years. Also, now feels like a very risky time to RE without a healthy bond tent." }, { "id": "t1_oo2c5df", "author": "/u/taterbladeden", "updated": "2026-05-26T22:57:03+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oo2c5df/", "content": "I have deposited about 2-3 years of living expenses into a high yield saving account bucket that I will not touch to combat market down turns. I know the money sitting in that bucket does’t earn much, but it allows me to sleep at night and not have to worry about what’s going on every day in the stock market." }, { "id": "t1_oo6tuol", "author": "/u/Zealousideal_Belt413", "updated": "2026-05-27T15:27:09+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oo6tuol/", "content": "Heh, exact same. 38 3.004mm 100% stock, lifelong renter, no kids. I broke my leg in Feb and haven't been able to return to work(oil rig). I'm contemplating going back for 3 months this summer then retiring Sept in time for hunting season, assuming this leg gets better. I also toss around the idea of waiting until 39yr 11mo as oil and gas is pretty good right now." }, { "id": "t1_oo3in09", "author": "/u/Key_Cheetah7982", "updated": "2026-05-27T02:46:20+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oo3in09/", "content": "I want you to stop and enjoy the last 2 years of your 30s too." }, { "id": "t1_oo3qsrw", "author": "/u/hyroprotagonyst", "updated": "2026-05-27T03:34:08+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oo3qsrw/", "content": "yep, this is the right mindset" }, { "id": "t1_oo12bg4", "author": "/u/TwoSocialist", "updated": "2026-05-26T19:18:01+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oo12bg4/", "content": "Fair enough." }, { "id": "t1_oo15fn7", "author": "/u/Ube_Vibes", "updated": "2026-05-26T19:32:05+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oo15fn7/", "content": "bro youre 38 with 2.4m and askin reddit for permission to stop? thats the most burned out tech worker thing ive ever heard. my uncle had half that at 55 and just moved to a cheap state, hes been fishin for 5 years and somehow still alive tbh. you already won fam, the rest is just anxiety doin the math for you" }, { "id": "t1_oo1ffhn", "author": "/u/_Smashbrother_", "updated": "2026-05-26T20:17:42+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oo1ffhn/", "content": "There's a massive difference between being 55 and 38. Your uncle also had SS coming in soon if shit took a turn for the worse, OP doesn't." }, { "id": "t1_ooo3u3v", "author": "/u/wballz", "updated": "2026-05-29T23:47:45+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/ooo3u3v/", "content": "Not really when you have a cash pile like that. The draw down between 38 and 55 would leave him a cash pile at 55 you’d say he’s ok to retire on." }, { "id": "t1_oo2azj7", "author": "/u/SerpentRoyalty", "updated": "2026-05-26T22:50:57+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oo2azj7/", "content": "2.4m is less than what I've seen for ER at his age. This one is different than the regular 6m portfolio posts that are asking the same question.\n In this case, I would fire with 3m with 100k annual spending. With 250k annual income and compounding interests, he can get there in 2-3 years." }, { "id": "t1_oo11vdx", "author": "/u/volkovolkov", "updated": "2026-05-26T19:16:01+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oo11vdx/", "content": "The math checks out but I personally would be a bit nervous about\n\n- Having a kid and nothing in a 529 for them\n\n- No bond tent to make sure you get through SORR. Maybe the contents of your mutual funds help you out there, not sure. But both of these things are subjective. If you don't care, then congrats and GFY." }, { "id": "t1_oo12njc", "author": "/u/TwoSocialist", "updated": "2026-05-26T19:19:31+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oo12njc/", "content": "Kid is 3 and has about 5k in their account.\n I don't have many bonds, you're right about that." }, { "id": "t1_oo14hpt", "author": "/u/Anymous2314", "updated": "2026-05-26T19:27:48+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oo14hpt/", "content": "Google SORR, your allocation is not good if you are planning to retire immediately." }, { "id": "t1_oo1psaz", "author": "/u/PMMeYourFinances", "updated": "2026-05-26T21:04:43+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oo1psaz/", "content": "https://youtu.be/QGzgsSXdPjo?si=pfCXDWd4wbI-NDQd\n Here’s a good overview on SORR and mitigation strategies" }, { "id": "t1_oo45lsd", "author": "/u/blueskies8484", "updated": "2026-05-27T05:12:55+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oo45lsd/", "content": "My two cents is I’d work another few years so you can at least help your kiddo through state school with tuition. If you can live on the $100k spend during that time, you’ll know it’s a realistic estimate and you should be able to save enough to get the 529 where it needs to be to grow sufficiently by 18." }, { "id": "t1_oo1g3d7", "author": "/u/Particular-Item-4734", "updated": "2026-05-26T20:20:42+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oo1g3d7/", "content": "Why? It's not like that 2.4M is going to do nothing for 18 years" }, { "id": "t1_oo1i4v6", "author": "/u/grateful-xoxo", "updated": "2026-05-26T20:29:53+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oo1i4v6/", "content": "lookup SORR. it's not about the number it's about the distribution to protect against SORR ... especially with a longer runway." }, { "id": "t1_oo1m1gl", "author": "/u/thejock13", "updated": "2026-05-26T20:47:37+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oo1m1gl/", "content": "With a $100K drawdown after 18 years, there is more than a 10% chance of being under $1M from $2.4M using historical data, a fixed withdrawal, and a 75/25 portfolio. It is a little bit lower still for 100% stocks after 18 years. Not sure when that would make things tight for OP though. But I'd prefer to set aside funds for the kids separately so in any case I am not stretching hard to provide it.\n https://www.cfiresim.com/0c32c453-1783-4b91-9d1c-ec9a3c82652a" }, { "id": "t1_oo2abnr", "author": "/u/SerpentRoyalty", "updated": "2026-05-26T22:47:24+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oo2abnr/", "content": "The spending graph seems to be a straight line instead of being adjusted for inflation" }, { "id": "t1_oo2pa92", "author": "/u/thejock13", "updated": "2026-05-27T00:07:35+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oo2pa92/", "content": "It is all using "real" numbers in today's dollars. The spending is flat using a fixed initial withdrawal rate but inflation is accounted for. It is just all the numbers are in today's dollar's and their future value is reduced by the inflation amount. If you click the "Inputs Tab" you can see that the withdrawals say "CPI - Historical"." }, { "id": "t1_oo2fmr1", "author": "/u/Elite163", "updated": "2026-05-26T23:15:38+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oo2fmr1/", "content": "It’s Reddit… you need 50 millon to retire apparently" }, { "id": "t1_oo96ai5", "author": "/u/TwoSocialist", "updated": "2026-05-27T21:36:26+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oo96ai5/", "content": "Bunch of comments saying I should stick it out to 4 or 5M so yeah... Basically" }, { "id": "t1_oob8bzk", "author": "/u/CrumpJuice84", "updated": "2026-05-28T04:37:01+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oob8bzk/", "content": "Take some time off, have an LLC, do what you want, expense some of your trips to your game development. You can pull dividends while and deduct home expenses and pay nearly 0 capital gains. Your investments could last years if not forever. I would love to take off 3-5 years in my 40s and follow my passion... 4 kids in high-school and college is stopping me." }, { "id": "t1_oog98fi", "author": "/u/Redwolfdc", "updated": "2026-05-28T21:23:29+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oog98fi/", "content": "You could always quit and take time to figure things out and explore something new imo. It’s not all or nothing. Most “retired” don’t sit around doing nothing." }, { "id": "t1_oo13c78", "author": "/u/dwoj206", "updated": "2026-05-26T19:22:36+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oo13c78/", "content": "Bruh." }, { "id": "t1_oo13ot1", "author": "/u/TwoSocialist", "updated": "2026-05-26T19:24:10+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oo13ot1/", "content": "Dude" }, { "id": "t1_oo14z86", "author": "/u/dwoj206", "updated": "2026-05-26T19:30:00+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oo14z86/", "content": "DUDE. I hope you're sitting on a nice beach. ❤️" }, { "id": "t1_oo1cbba", "author": "/u/PokeYrMomStanley", "updated": "2026-05-26T20:03:31+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oo1cbba/", "content": "Sweet! What's mine say?" }, { "id": "t1_oo36iih", "author": "/u/Drawer-Vegetable", "updated": "2026-05-27T01:40:55+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oo36iih/", "content": "bromie" }, { "id": "t1_oo15apt", "author": "/u/BillyBobChorton", "updated": "2026-05-26T19:31:27+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oo15apt/", "content": "Bruv" }, { "id": "t1_oo15po1", "author": "/u/dwoj206", "updated": "2026-05-26T19:33:22+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oo15po1/", "content": "bruhhh" }, { "id": "t1_oo12ynj", "author": "/u/Ninjapirate2000", "updated": "2026-05-26T19:20:54+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oo12ynj/", "content": "I personally would. But my spend threshold is also low. I can live like a homeless man if I need to. Your circumstances are different you have a wife and kid to look out for and I think that might push your FIRE date back a little just for safety." }, { "id": "t1_oo147pw", "author": "/u/BillyBobChorton", "updated": "2026-05-26T19:26:32+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oo147pw/", "content": "I’m almost exact same age and NW, and also have a 3 year old too lol.\n I’m not retired but I did job hop recently hoping for better work life balance at a job that has less stability now.\n I’m pretty risk averse, to a fault. For example been saving 30%+ in cash since like 2012 waiting for “the next 2008” crash. Unfortunately I Never deployed cash in 2018, COVID, 2022 tariff scare etc.\n Anyways, maybe take the middle ground and find a job that’s way easier but pays like 50%’of your current salary" }, { "id": "t1_oo1ab2i", "author": "/u/fielausm", "updated": "2026-05-26T19:54:22+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oo1ab2i/", "content": "fwiw, 35 and no kids yet, but y’all are giving me real hope that I’m not behind some divine timeline. That I can have a family, early retirement, and satisfactory life throughout.\n The FOMO and Comparison are real. Thanks you an OP for being a beacon for me." }, { "id": "t1_oo1mlu4", "author": "", "updated": "2026-05-26T20:50:10+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oo1mlu4/", "content": "[deleted]" }, { "id": "t1_oo1n4kh", "author": "/u/BillyBobChorton", "updated": "2026-05-26T20:52:31+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oo1n4kh/", "content": "I did invest in my 401k and Roth IRA, also got a lot of stock from my last job that basically tripled from the initial grant date" }, { "id": "t1_oo18g2y", "author": "/u/Informal-Intention-5", "updated": "2026-05-26T19:45:53+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oo18g2y/", "content": "Generally spend goes up as kids age, or did for me at least. There’s lessons, camp, more expensive clothes and hobbies/activities. Something to keep in mind." }, { "id": "t1_oo2g7hj", "author": "/u/Suspicious-Citron378", "updated": "2026-05-26T23:18:44+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oo2g7hj/", "content": "Camp is fucking expensive by the way" }, { "id": "t1_oo1q2m0", "author": "/u/Available_Reveal8068", "updated": "2026-05-26T21:06:03+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oo1q2m0/", "content": "How much do you owe on your home, or do you rent?\n You have to fund 27 years of health insurance coverage before Medicare eligibility. You might need to fund college tuition for your kid at some point.\n I don't think it's enough at this point in your life. I think your $100k/year spend will need to go up over the next few decades." }, { "id": "t1_oo96qwy", "author": "/u/TwoSocialist", "updated": "2026-05-27T21:38:37+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oo96qwy/", "content": "We owe a little more than $120k on the mortgage." }, { "id": "t1_oo9vvnf", "author": "/u/Available_Reveal8068", "updated": "2026-05-27T23:50:13+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oo9vvnf/", "content": "That's still a pretty good balance that needs to factor into your annual spend." }, { "id": "t1_oo16wsm", "author": "/u/evenfallframework", "updated": "2026-05-26T19:38:51+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oo16wsm/", "content": "I'd be DONE at half that, at least at the FI point of FIRE. Congrats, fuck you 😄" }, { "id": "t1_oo13kys", "author": "/u/Aram_Fingal", "updated": "2026-05-26T19:23:41+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oo13kys/", "content": "Is this combined savings between you and your spouse? Do you both want to FIRE? What's your plan for health insurance?\n In any case, I probably wouldn't walk away from that compensation just yet. SORR plagues us all and a bigger cushion helps. The job market right now stinks, but what are your prospects for finding something more emotionally rewarding that pays similarly?" }, { "id": "t1_oo1480y", "author": "/u/TwoSocialist", "updated": "2026-05-26T19:26:35+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oo1480y/", "content": "Another 200k from spouse unaccounted for, as well as our home (about 300k in equity).\n She will probably go back to work eventually once the kid is in school" }, { "id": "t1_oo1636m", "author": "/u/Aram_Fingal", "updated": "2026-05-26T19:35:04+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oo1636m/", "content": "I would try for $4M. I suspect that may be closer than you think if this bull run continues and your savings rate is high. One way to think about it is that your wife is unlikely to make $250k re-entering the job market, so your 1 year of work is likely trading for multiple of hers." }, { "id": "t1_oo1xszf", "author": "/u/cds4850", "updated": "2026-05-26T21:42:44+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oo1xszf/", "content": "How many years on your mortgage? Can you cover that along with the increased costs of retiring? (Namely, marketplace health insurance for your family.)" }, { "id": "t1_oo96hx5", "author": "/u/TwoSocialist", "updated": "2026-05-27T21:37:25+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oo96hx5/", "content": "$120k left on the mortgage at 3.5%\n Could just pay it off.." }, { "id": "t1_oo9bggm", "author": "/u/cds4850", "updated": "2026-05-27T22:01:38+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oo9bggm/", "content": "Completely up to you at that rate. I’ll get roasted for this, but I would if I was retiring. Anything to reduce that monthly nut when I’m no longer generating a paycheck." }, { "id": "t1_oo1f2x0", "author": "/u/Various_Things2026", "updated": "2026-05-26T20:16:05+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oo1f2x0/", "content": "38 with $2.4m is awesome. But at the same time , I feel a little uncomfortable to live off that next 40-50 years if you don’t work again. I’ll be a little more comfy if it’s closer to $3m if you can get to that in the next 2-3 years (with contribution and appreciation). Also starting a business is not easy. First of all, most new biz fail within 4 years. I had an acquaintance who received a $2m inheritance when he was mid-30s. He started a company, failed in 20 years and $2m wiped out now back to working a day job. I’m not suggesting you don’t do it but just be careful." }, { "id": "t1_oo14y09", "author": "/u/lakeviewdude74", "updated": "2026-05-26T19:29:50+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oo14y09/", "content": "Does your annual spend include taxes and healthcare?\n I would say you’re very close. If it’s not included in your spend, I would go a couple more years. And personally, even if it was included, I would build myself a little bit of buffer. But I’m also a tad more conservative." }, { "id": "t1_oo96m0v", "author": "/u/TwoSocialist", "updated": "2026-05-27T21:37:58+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oo96m0v/", "content": "According to my bank I spent 70k post tax last year." }, { "id": "t1_oo9aos4", "author": "/u/lakeviewdude74", "updated": "2026-05-27T21:57:52+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oo9aos4/", "content": "Are you planning to help your kid out with college? Did you budget for that separately? Aside from that it would really be about figuring out what your healthcare cost are going to be and what your taxes are going to be. Then I would probably want just a little bit more in the bank for unexpected expenses. A new car, major medical costs, major house repairs. Unless the 70k you spent this year had a major unexpected cost in it. My guess is that that will put you around 100k to 120k per year. If it were me, I would say you’re almost there. I would probably shoot for 3 million. Budget for 100 K but know I can take out more if I need to. And adjust my spend if I need to." }, { "id": "t1_oo1gd2v", "author": "/u/just_some_dude05", "updated": "2026-05-26T20:21:55+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oo1gd2v/", "content": "You’re not ready.\n Get your 4 walls paid for.\n Fund the kids college fund.\n Health insurance for my family of 3 last year was $22,000. Kid broke a limb being a kid and had an appendix incident, that cost another $20,000. Wife had a lump on her breast, $8000.\n We paid a 12% tax rate on long term Capitol gains sales.\n Then add in food, property tax, utilities, car insurance, a car, etc, etc, etc\n 100k doesn’t actually go that far.\n You push through another 5-6 years. Now you go into that with a paid for home and a 60/40 bond split, money for your kids school, and 5m to work with instead of 2.4m. You’ll thank yourself for the remaining 40 years you live." }, { "id": "t1_oo4ljpl", "author": "/u/AtheistAgnostic", "updated": "2026-05-27T07:17:14+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oo4ljpl/", "content": "Move abroad and 3 of those aren't a problem" }, { "id": "t1_oob7x5c", "author": "/u/just_some_dude05", "updated": "2026-05-28T04:34:06+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oob7x5c/", "content": "Based on the tax rates I come out ahead here." }, { "id": "t1_oobx31t", "author": "/u/AtheistAgnostic", "updated": "2026-05-28T07:51:58+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oobx31t/", "content": "How? Property taxes from a huge home? Hard to see how you're paying taxes over the cost of $50k in health costs per year and college costs (30-90k) if you're FIRE and not working. And even then there are other countries or tax schemes with low taxes. Also we're talking about OP, not you" }, { "id": "t1_oo1l80z", "author": "/u/SDstartingOut", "updated": "2026-05-26T20:43:54+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oo1l80z/", "content": "> Currently make about 250k a year for the past 4 years, before that about 150k. I started at 50k.\n Are you still making that money?\n If I were in your shoes, making that amount of money, I'd do the following:\n 1 - Shift your investments into a model assuming that you are ready to retiring. Basically, start to derisk yourself.\n 2 - Work for 2 more years, continuing to save money.\n Assuming the markets don't crash in the next 2 years - assuming you don't inflate your lifestyle, you've just done a huge amount of protection against sequence of return risks. In theory you are retiring already up 20-25% from where you need to be, with a good cash/bond buffer." }, { "id": "t1_oo3kww7", "author": "/u/onemanstrong", "updated": "2026-05-27T02:59:13+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oo3kww7/", "content": "I feel like nobody is asking about other aspects of your spending. Mortgage rate? Property tax? Money set aside or not for kid's education? Or the big one--healthcare?\n Honestly, I'm 50 and have ~4.3m but married and live in HCOL area and we're not retiring till 6m. I think you might want to work at least 5-10 more years. Things jump up on you, you're so young still." }, { "id": "t1_oo9jfny", "author": "/u/dm_me_cute_puppers", "updated": "2026-05-27T22:42:55+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oo9jfny/", "content": "This is wild. 4.3m is plenty to retire at 50, boss. At 4%, you’re getting $172k/yr that won’t impact your savings at all." }, { "id": "t1_oo9uwlr", "author": "/u/onemanstrong", "updated": "2026-05-27T23:44:54+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oo9uwlr/", "content": "I want people to read this, especially young people, meaning under 40: you have absolutely no idea how many curveballs life will throw at you.\n My monthly spend is roughly $15k. I am married with no kids or pets. Mortgage, fire insurance, umbrella insurance, property tax, car insurance, utilities, groceries, eating out, streaming services, internet. But wait, there's more: $10k to cut down trees this year. $7k to my mother, whose car died. $5k to a brother. Leak in the roof? $6k. Did something happen with the plumbing? $1.5k. Health insurance after you lose your job, if you're single? $10-$18k.\n I would bet that most people here simply are not factoring in the unfactorable. The unknown knows, the stuff that pops up "in other people's lives." I'm here to tell you you are one bad accident away from financial disaster, if you don't plan for it. For instance, Umbrella Insurance. This will save your hide, as it covers the cost of many unaccountable things. Someone slips in your home and sues you? You accidentally hit someone with your car, and they sue you? A million dollar policy costs less than $1k per year and is absolutely worth it.\n My advice: add 25% to your goal. Get umbrella insurance. Plan with your parents for their advanced age; get their houses into trusts, so you won't wake up and Medicaid is coming after their property.\n Just one guy's opinion." }, { "id": "t1_oo3x0k7", "author": "/u/seacombe25", "updated": "2026-05-27T04:13:04+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oo3x0k7/", "content": "Be inspired by Warren Buffet who said:\n “You really want to be doing what you love… If you wait until you can retire to start doing what you love, you’ve already lost.” He’s also said: “I think you ought to take a job that you’d take if you were independently wealthy because you will do well at it.”\n I think you have enough money behind you to pick a job that really interests you or start a business that you are passionate about. You can always go back to Corporate later but the energy and excitement of chasing your dreams is amazing!" }, { "id": "t1_oo12xm7", "author": "/u/xfallen", "updated": "2026-05-26T19:20:46+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oo12xm7/", "content": "No I wouldn’t. Too risky with a kid. I would use 3.5% withdrawal rate which means closer to 3 mil" }, { "id": "t1_oo183ug", "author": "/u/mopasali", "updated": "2026-05-26T19:44:19+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oo183ug/", "content": "Or at least see how the kid does in a school environment to get a better idea if they require more spending (e.g., travel leagues for sports or private schooling) or possibility of long-term support (e.g., later ASD diagnosis)? It's just hard to know long-term expenses with kids.\n You can still probably downgrade the income and get a lower stress job that gives you more time with family." }, { "id": "t1_oo2cibu", "author": "/u/TVP615", "updated": "2026-05-26T22:58:57+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oo2cibu/", "content": "Liquid" }, { "id": "t1_oo2e2y5", "author": "/u/xfallen", "updated": "2026-05-26T23:07:21+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oo2e2y5/", "content": "Doesn’t have to be liquid, just can’t include primary residence" }, { "id": "t1_oo1fukm", "author": "/u/Pipes32", "updated": "2026-05-26T20:19:36+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oo1fukm/", "content": "As someone else in tech...does your company do layoffs? Personally I have an exact number in mind that the SECOND I hit it, I'm asking my manager to include me in the next layoffs. I have another number in mind where I will start planning my exit if I haven't been laid off by that time. But you could always go "halfway" while you ponder if your company (like mine) has semi-regular layoffs. Get that severance bonus and let the company make the decision for you." }, { "id": "t1_oo1mqz7", "author": "/u/ScaryRatio8540", "updated": "2026-05-26T20:50:48+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oo1mqz7/", "content": "I would knuckle in for for one or two more years for sure, your earning potential likely won’t ever be able to bounce back to this level if you do end up struggling down the line.\n Would virtually guarantee you never end up in a position where you’re stocking shelves at a grocery store at 80 and will likely increase your quality of life in retirement, while still getting tons of time with your kid while they’re young.\n Could even do a bit of quiet quitting too in the mean time" }, { "id": "t1_oo2ly9e", "author": "", "updated": "2026-05-26T23:49:34+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oo2ly9e/", "content": "[deleted]" }, { "id": "t1_oo3ko9f", "author": "/u/NickelSmartPoundFool", "updated": "2026-05-27T02:57:49+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oo3ko9f/", "content": "I am a bit younger with more saved (~9M+ at 32) but would recommend OP FIRE. You are a bit older than 38 btw. Most of what you’ve posted is incorrect here" }, { "id": "t1_oo2q85d", "author": "/u/Good-Resource-8184", "updated": "2026-05-27T00:12:46+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oo2q85d/", "content": "Yeah. Id retire. i retired at 35 with 2 young kids a mortgage and car payments and 2mil invested. 4 and a half years later im over 2.5mil and didnt work. Its great." }, { "id": "t1_oo17ygn", "author": "/u/Candid_Holiday1042", "updated": "2026-05-26T19:43:38+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oo17ygn/", "content": "No question.\n I'd get my qualifications to be a personal trainer and work part time doing that, while also getting my own fitness back on track. I dream about it all the time.\n Maybe work on a passion project like a YouTube channel or a blog." }, { "id": "t1_oo1bevt", "author": "/u/goosemaster0", "updated": "2026-05-26T19:59:23+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oo1bevt/", "content": "Pls ditch the dead weight of crypto for literally anything else. Throw that into Google or semis or legit anything. $75k isn’t nothing to have tied up in the sinking, dead weight that is crypto." }, { "id": "t1_oo1cmqo", "author": "/u/CryptoCel", "updated": "2026-05-26T20:04:56+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oo1cmqo/", "content": "FYI there are portions of your $2.4m that is a very different asset composition than the trinity study. Crypto and individual stocks, if in after tax brokerages, should probably be sold and reinvested in a regular index fund. Pay the taxes and assess how much more you need to get to $2.5m." }, { "id": "t1_oo1fijh", "author": "/u/MulberryAutomatic690", "updated": "2026-05-26T20:18:05+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oo1fijh/", "content": "Do you have health insurance? Didn't matter how young and healthy you are, one thing goes wrong and all those savings can go down the toilet if not.\n Amount for long term living costs as well. We just had to find a place for my aunt and the only place available anywhere close enough for her friends to still be able to visit us 18k/MONTH." }, { "id": "t1_oo5ijdw", "author": "/u/HelloChopsticks", "updated": "2026-05-27T11:35:23+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oo5ijdw/", "content": "When it's 18k a month, how does that realistically get paid for?" }, { "id": "t1_oo6n7nm", "author": "/u/MulberryAutomatic690", "updated": "2026-05-27T14:58:11+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oo6n7nm/", "content": "From the sale of her house when it happens. Her retirement covers i think 6k a month... She can apply for Medicaid, but only after all assets have been liquidated and used towards her care.\n So if she had started off with no money there would be some help available." }, { "id": "t1_oo6nkph", "author": "/u/MulberryAutomatic690", "updated": "2026-05-27T14:59:47+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oo6nkph/", "content": "But prior to this happening she was completely independent, out and about every day... Member of community groups.. and one day they just found her unresponsive and still have no idea what really happened... But she needs full time care for even eating, drinking, dressing, etc... Which is half the reason it's so expensive.. that and it's a high cost of living area." }, { "id": "t1_oo27891", "author": "/u/FIREMovement24", "updated": "2026-05-26T22:30:52+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oo27891/", "content": "I think we're twins. 37, married, first kid due next month, SWE, $2.5M invested, expected future expenses of $100-120K.\n I want to do something similar. I still love building software, but not for corporate America. I plan on quitting after getting back from paternity leave and trying to build a small SaaS and/or mobile apps. I'm pretty sure I'm going to do it, but the timing just feels "off". I could be underestimating how much a kid (or two in the future) costs, the job market is pretty toast, the stock market has had an amazing bull run and I have to assume what I work on will make $0. I'm going to think about it as a 1-year sabbatical and re-evaluate. My wife make $120K, so it seems pretty low risk." }, { "id": "t1_oo2ael4", "author": "/u/mark8468", "updated": "2026-05-26T22:47:50+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oo2ael4/", "content": "Yes. My goal is 2.5 and I'm out. Unfortunately I probably won't hit it till 45-46." }, { "id": "t1_oo31git", "author": "/u/youngishgeezer", "updated": "2026-05-27T01:13:40+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oo31git/", "content": "No, I would not if I were in your shoes. You do not have enough saved for a 60 year retirement with a kid where you plan to spend 100k per year. For sequence of return risk I’d want about 5 years in cash equivalents. That takes your earnings down a bit but lets you ride out the worst of most expected downturns. I’d also want a decent percentage to be bonds which you don’t say you’re holding, but they could be in your ETFs. So I would work a bit longer and shore up your reserves. Or go for it if you think you could jump back into the workforce at close to your old salary if you decide you need to." }, { "id": "t1_oo5t9xf", "author": "/u/MikeyB7509", "updated": "2026-05-27T12:35:39+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oo5t9xf/", "content": "I’m gonna say what you’re not gonna wanna here. Work a few more years and build up more money.\n They’ve been killing the middle class for a long time and you’re young. I think that extra money is gonna come in handy down the line." }, { "id": "t1_oo14n6q", "author": "/u/AdAgile9604", "updated": "2026-05-26T19:28:29+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oo14n6q/", "content": "Yes" }, { "id": "t1_oo14xn1", "author": "/u/L11mbm", "updated": "2026-05-26T19:29:47+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oo14xn1/", "content": "Yes." }, { "id": "t1_oo17bw9", "author": "/u/jmmenes", "updated": "2026-05-26T19:40:46+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oo17bw9/", "content": "I would. 🤷🏻‍♂️" }, { "id": "t1_oo18na0", "author": "/u/Gorgenapper", "updated": "2026-05-26T19:46:47+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oo18na0/", "content": "You have my permission to retire." }, { "id": "t1_oo1d42e", "author": "/u/Best-Ad9099", "updated": "2026-05-26T20:07:06+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oo1d42e/", "content": "Absolutely" }, { "id": "t1_oo1e73q", "author": "/u/i_tyrant", "updated": "2026-05-26T20:12:04+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oo1e73q/", "content": "Yes, yes, 1000 times yes.\n Though my plans for the future are comparatively cheap. 2.4m would be plenty." }, { "id": "t1_oo1ij63", "author": "/u/Usual-Caterpillar-11", "updated": "2026-05-26T20:31:41+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oo1ij63/", "content": "Congrats and fuck you!\n I'm almost at your age and I just got a little over 20% of what you have saved. I told my fiance that when I go up to 1.5mil equivalent in 2025 money, I'm out, so yes, you are free to do whatever you want." }, { "id": "t1_oo1jwnh", "author": "/u/TheSheikYerbouti", "updated": "2026-05-26T20:37:54+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oo1jwnh/", "content": "First off, congrats.\n I’d consider working a little bit more. Not many people make $250k a year. You could get your number up by a lot more in just a couple years. You could also get laid off and get severance. If you werent making so much I’d say hang it up and relax. But you’re in a position so few people will ever be in." }, { "id": "t1_oo1qby9", "author": "/u/Magikarpical", "updated": "2026-05-26T21:07:16+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oo1qby9/", "content": "does your 100k spend include health insurance? if so you're probably good. i left at 38 with a similar networth and spend (my budget is 104k), but the increase in health insurance prices this year had me reeling. i'm still fi, but barely." }, { "id": "t1_oo2jyww", "author": "/u/wingardianx", "updated": "2026-05-26T23:38:51+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oo2jyww/", "content": "For reference, I only have $1M and I retired already. "Status" from being a corporate bootlicker and "excess" wealth aren't worth the trade-offs. If your lifestyle allows for it, I would simply retire. Or, you could pursue BaristaFIRE approach by working a low-stress job that brings you joy and purpose.." }, { "id": "t1_oo31t86", "author": "/u/Mental-Wolf-2560", "updated": "2026-05-27T01:15:34+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oo31t86/", "content": "I'd grind some more until 3M or until burnout. I'd also take more vacation time since u shoukd give less fucks by now." }, { "id": "t1_oo137bs", "author": "/u/Kat9935", "updated": "2026-05-26T19:21:59+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oo137bs/", "content": "I wouldn't just to FIRE yet as CAPE is crazy high, more than twice the historical average which by several studies implies SORR could not be in your favor. Too early to tell if AI permanently changes those factors and moves the needle up.\n However, there is no reason you couldn't find a different job, reduce stress, find something more meaningful, impactful more time with your kid, and just stay employed for a few more years see how things play out, do you have more kids, do other things come up, etc" }, { "id": "t1_oo14efn", "author": "/u/avebelle", "updated": "2026-05-26T19:27:23+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oo14efn/", "content": "Do it. Get out of the grind and shift to something you can enjoy and look forward to doing every day." }, { "id": "t1_oo1c66m", "author": "/u/Kwantuum", "updated": "2026-05-26T20:02:49+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oo1c66m/", "content": "I would have retired a million ago." }, { "id": "t1_oo1lhvg", "author": "/u/DesperateAdvantage76", "updated": "2026-05-26T20:45:09+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oo1lhvg/", "content": "Not enough for college and healthcare unless you plan on keeping things basic. At your income I'd try to hit 4 million. At that point you can live a comfortable lifestyle and have no serious money concerns even if an emergency comes up." }, { "id": "t1_oo1r4cj", "author": "/u/Walmart-Shopper-22", "updated": "2026-05-26T21:10:58+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oo1r4cj/", "content": "You said your target spend "was $100k/yr". What is your actual spending? Without knowing what your life actually costs, we can't know if FIREing now is a good idea for you." }, { "id": "t1_oo1ss46", "author": "/u/midnight-tots", "updated": "2026-05-26T21:18:41+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oo1ss46/", "content": "I say live the next 5 years off your target and work. If something bad happens walk but I would keep grinding because if the market goes down the ability to buy cheap will lead to long term stability" }, { "id": "t1_oo1xqxt", "author": "/u/LightZealousideal116", "updated": "2026-05-26T21:42:27+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oo1xqxt/", "content": "Housing situation?" }, { "id": "t1_oo2dom8", "author": "/u/prolifichater", "updated": "2026-05-26T23:05:11+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oo2dom8/", "content": "100% go work on beach, river, garden etc." }, { "id": "t1_oo2loqj", "author": "/u/Beautiful-Estate6963", "updated": "2026-05-26T23:48:05+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oo2loqj/", "content": "Not enough, especially with a kid" }, { "id": "t1_oo2uo4z", "author": "/u/guy30000", "updated": "2026-05-27T00:37:11+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oo2uo4z/", "content": "That's your decision. I would coastfire. Work somewhere I want to for as much as I want. Maybe only with health care in mind." }, { "id": "t1_oo5d0zh", "author": "/u/Large_Slip6414", "updated": "2026-05-27T10:59:59+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oo5d0zh/", "content": "5m minimum" }, { "id": "t1_oo8za8d", "author": "/u/retired_in_2026", "updated": "2026-05-27T21:03:12+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oo8za8d/", "content": "Your headline question is 4% vs 3%, but with a 27-year runway to Medicare and a 50+ year horizon, the SWR debate is the less interesting half of the math. Two things actually move the needle:\n\n- ACA subsidies. The 400% FPL cliff returns in 2026. For a family of 3, staying under ~$83K MAGI could be worth $10-20K/year in premium credits — that alone is ~0.5-0.8% of your portfolio annually for 27 years. Your 60% brokerage position is perfect for this because you spend basis + qualified dividends, not ordinary income.\n- Roth conversion ladder. You have $700K pretax that will compound to ~$2.5M by age 73 untouched, triggering big RMDs and IRMAA tier breaches. Converting ~$30-60K/year during low-income years fills the 12% bracket cheaply — but it directly fights the ACA point above. The optimization is real: convert aggressively until ACA kicks in (~age 50), then throttle back. On the SWR question: 4% on $2.4M is $96K, very close to your $100K target with zero margin. At 38 with a 55-year horizon I'd model 3.25-3.5% ($78-84K), which conveniently lines up with the ACA ceiling. A part-time $15-20K Barista-FI gig closes the gap and de-risks sequence returns enormously.\n Not a 'work 5 more years' situation — it's a 'sequence the next 27 years deliberately' situation." }, { "id": "t1_oobvocy", "author": "/u/Fitasianwife", "updated": "2026-05-28T07:39:55+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oobvocy/", "content": "Don’t listen to me, I’m 80 next year. But, every time I see you young fellas discuss, tired, burned out, crappy place to work -and then hear about the wages I’m seriously shocked. First you have 45-50 years to live life. With the economy taking another major transformation -soon, Why would you quit/retire now? Hard for me to understand quitting your job when you are paid very well? Impossible to understand why you would believe that you have enough money to live that long, in the majority of the cities in the US. My advice, for what it’s worth, is adjust your goals, ride your income and hefty salary as many years as you can-and for goodness sake let the time value of money grow your portfolio to something you can never have to ask yourself-if you have enough to retire. You also know when you have no interest in paying interest, or waste money on lifestyle creep, or if a family member is ill etc. You don’t have near enough! Best of luck-you’re on a great track." }, { "id": "t1_ood9izq", "author": "/u/SumBadCheck", "updated": "2026-05-28T13:22:50+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/ood9izq/", "content": "Out of curiosity do you have a pension?" }, { "id": "t1_op38cxk", "author": "/u/Fitasianwife", "updated": "2026-06-01T08:07:07+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/op38cxk/", "content": "Answer above, with original post." }, { "id": "t1_op38acc", "author": "/u/Fitasianwife", "updated": "2026-06-01T08:06:28+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/op38acc/", "content": "Yes, I have a small military pension and SS, taken at 70. Unfortunately, I live in a HCOL, 2 kids in Prep School, and my wife and I gift each son, the $38k gift max each year. So roughly about $320k net expenses a year to live. Neither of us works, outside the home!" }, { "id": "t1_oooggeb", "author": "/u/MistahOnzima", "updated": "2026-05-30T01:00:34+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oooggeb/", "content": "I would retire if I had 250k" }, { "id": "t1_oooi5en", "author": "/u/WashBig3112", "updated": "2026-05-30T01:10:21+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oooi5en/", "content": "Hell, I would retire if I had 25k at this point." }, { "id": "t1_oooidx4", "author": "/u/MistahOnzima", "updated": "2026-05-30T01:11:44+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oooidx4/", "content": "I honestly could not work if I had 100k probably. It's basically double my yearly income." }, { "id": "t1_oouqw85", "author": "/u/WoollyMilkPig", "updated": "2026-05-31T00:01:44+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oouqw85/", "content": "I'd quit my job, put $400k in a HYSA, let $2M do it's thing for a few years, and spend my days on hobbies and hanging out with the family.\n You might not easily be able to get a $250k/year job but you'll be able to find something if you need to make ends meet.\n Don't spend your days doing something you hate if you don't need to." }, { "id": "t1_oo1128e", "author": "", "updated": "2026-05-26T19:12:21+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oo1128e/", "content": "[deleted]" }, { "id": "t1_oo16cwk", "author": "/u/Sb8569", "updated": "2026-05-26T19:36:18+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oo16cwk/", "content": "Best advice all week!!!" }, { "id": "t1_oo11y39", "author": "/u/DigitalFStopper", "updated": "2026-05-26T19:16:22+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oo11y39/", "content": "100k now but what will that work out to in 20 years at a normal retirement age and then 10-15 years after that. Inflation is quite dangerous when you’re looking so far out. A tech bubble is very likely at some point within the next 3 years.\n Can you suck it up if you tell yourself the next two years you’re going to focus on saving as much as possible and investing every penny. See how the account swells after 2 years, maybe that will give you encouragement but it’ll at least let your accounts compound a while longer.\n Private health insurance isn’t cheap, long way to go till you can get Medicare.\n I’d say if your were looking at 70k a year you could outpace inflation but 100k will be a little close.\n Edit just saw wife and kid\n 5 more years min. Does she contribute financially." }, { "id": "t1_oo14k4i", "author": "/u/swanny101", "updated": "2026-05-26T19:28:06+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oo14k4i/", "content": "The 3% & 4% rules have inflation baked in." }, { "id": "t1_oo12sbw", "author": "/u/TwoSocialist", "updated": "2026-05-26T19:20:07+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oo12sbw/", "content": "She wants to go back to work when the kid is in school. Right now she is a stay at home mom." }, { "id": "t1_oo1454h", "author": "/u/mizary1", "updated": "2026-05-26T19:26:13+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oo1454h/", "content": "How much do you like your job? If you don't hate it I'd stick it out for another year or two. Have you taken a close up look at your budget? Have you looked to see what ACA coverage would cost you? How old is the kid? Kids can be a bigger money suck than anticipated unless you are willing to let them struggle.\n If you hate your job look for something different. Doesn't need to be $250k/yr. If you can just cover expenses for a few years it will let your current investments grow and give you a better look at the future.\n And if you want to quit and spend more time with family that's ok too. Especially if you would be ok getting a job at some point down the road, like if you experience lifestyle creep or under/over estimated some aspect of retirement.\n If your numbers are correct odds are you will be fine. You would want to look into asset allocation. You would probably want some cash in bonds to guard against market collapse." }, { "id": "t1_oo1d1av", "author": "/u/sdbest", "updated": "2026-05-26T20:06:45+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oo1d1av/", "content": "You're asking me if I'd retire based on your Net Worth. The answer for me would be 'yes.'" }, { "id": "t1_oo1ewwm", "author": "/u/bballjerm", "updated": "2026-05-26T20:15:19+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oo1ewwm/", "content": "Congrats on reaching such milestones. Couple of questions as my goal I hopefully achieve in a few years aligns closely with your status.\n\n- Is your wife working, or planning to continue working?\n\n- Are here $'s included in your portfolio and part of the $100K spend per year?\n\n- What are your plans for health insurance once you retire?\n\n- Are you planning on transferring any of your portfolio into bonds or continue investing with the ETF's & Mutual funds?" }, { "id": "t1_oo1fuv9", "author": "/u/_Smashbrother_", "updated": "2026-05-26T20:19:38+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oo1fuv9/", "content": "If you already own your house, then I'd say you're probably ok." }, { "id": "t1_oo1jndi", "author": "/u/LxBru", "updated": "2026-05-26T20:36:45+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oo1jndi/", "content": "Have you looked into health insurance for the marketplace plans you can get (assuming us)? That's my main hold back, even with subsidies the plans are garbage in my location and I have a chronic condition so I need a really solid (ideally ppo) plan which the marketplace does not offer." }, { "id": "t1_oo1jsvk", "author": "/u/kevinhunt59", "updated": "2026-05-26T20:37:26+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oo1jsvk/", "content": "I'm 43 Mechanical Engineer in the bay area with $2.8m in retirement savings. 3 years ago I moved to a better job where I am appreciated, also for 6% contribution, they add 10% to my 401k. I just received my 3rd annual distribution of 6 from the previous jobs ESOP. They have been giving me the minimum and the last one will be a big one.\n I am going to start enjoying my money after all the ESOP distributions have finished and move to a bigger home on acreage. The tracking spreadsheet I made says that withdrawing from my retirement to cover the difference in mortgage payments will push out hitting my FIRE target by 3 years. I would also look for a place with a rental unit or two on it that could cover most of this difference." }, { "id": "t1_oo1ly88", "author": "/u/cmd242", "updated": "2026-05-26T20:47:12+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oo1ly88/", "content": "I would, faster than a cat can lick its ass." }, { "id": "t1_oo1mw6g", "author": "/u/GMVexst", "updated": "2026-05-26T20:51:27+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oo1mw6g/", "content": "Nope. My # is 4 million and < 50. But I'm not you and I don't know what your # is" }, { "id": "t1_oo1oq65", "author": "/u/CrowdedShorts", "updated": "2026-05-26T20:59:49+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oo1oq65/", "content": "Get a house and get it paid off first" }, { "id": "t1_oo1p4ks", "author": "/u/mrbrownstone", "updated": "2026-05-26T21:01:39+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oo1p4ks/", "content": "One thing to consider is that the S&P is up 80% in the last 5 years. Who knows how long that trend will continue but I think it's a bit risky to retire during that kind of run. A market downturn at your age could be be a big setback. Of course, you could always just go back to work if needed, but I think you're better off when you're reaching your savings targets during a period of negative or flat market returns." }, { "id": "t1_oo1pi5n", "author": "/u/twt69", "updated": "2026-05-26T21:03:23+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oo1pi5n/", "content": "Allocation wise, you should set up your bonds to be the next five years of withdrawals. Sell stock while the market is up, sell bonds during a downturn until the market returns to previous values. This way you aren’t selling stock while the market is down.\n Your bond allocation should be about $600k the day you retire. Your returns will be lower than they have been because of this so make sure to account for that. I’m sure your etf holdings, etc. mixes are fine.\n If you average a 7% annual return, retiring at 40 you’ll be fine. Not so fine at 6%. I’d say do two more years." }, { "id": "t1_oo1q8eh", "author": "/u/Comfort48", "updated": "2026-05-26T21:06:48+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oo1q8eh/", "content": "I am more conservative about this. I would say 2 years more unless you believe inflation is going to slow. Medical insurance is insane." }, { "id": "t1_oo1u726", "author": "/u/waterdrinker619", "updated": "2026-05-26T21:25:24+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oo1u726/", "content": "Double it and give it to your 45 year old self" }, { "id": "t1_oo25bt1", "author": "/u/rebecky5275", "updated": "2026-05-26T22:20:43+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oo25bt1/", "content": "I just turned 38 too. The fact that you’ve invested that much is awesome. You must have great discipline.\n The change from working to quitting is a big change and the brain fights you and you question whether it’s enough. Feeling of imposture symptoms and scarcity mindset.\n Something I did was slowly cut back my hours. Went from 20 hr work weeks to 10, then to 5, and 3. And my husband just quit his job.\n Must say, now that we have barely any w2 income, the pull from the account is not very comfortable. Lol either you get used to it, or you just working enough to go shop/ travel without needing to contribute anymore." }, { "id": "t1_oo265y1", "author": "/u/-WxGeek-", "updated": "2026-05-26T22:25:06+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oo265y1/", "content": "Financially you seem more than ready. What is your plan for health care? Basic medical care can be handled with cash or basic insurance, just be prepared for catastrophic expenses.\n On the emotional and psychological side, please read accounts of post-Fire expectations and realities from those that have if you haven't already. I retired at 56, so I'm not the best source of info but have read several accounts of loneliness and a lack of purpose and fulfillment. When you leave work, those daily interactions and relationships outside of home you take for granted are no longer there. I felt both of these and required some adjustment. I teach part time at a university and do things I enjoy.\n Good luck!" }, { "id": "t1_oo29a46", "author": "/u/ultrawolfblue", "updated": "2026-05-26T22:41:51+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oo29a46/", "content": "I dont know 3 people 2.4m?" }, { "id": "t1_oo2pdwx", "author": "/u/the-BBC-news", "updated": "2026-05-27T00:08:09+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oo2pdwx/", "content": "Since you’re just recently become a higher earner, I would sock away 50% of your pay for another 3-5 years and then jet.\n Have you priced health insurance yet? For a family of 3, that’s going to be a big ticket item." }, { "id": "t1_oo2sm2b", "author": "/u/Gofastrun", "updated": "2026-05-27T00:25:55+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oo2sm2b/", "content": "I would quit tomorrow. If $100k is a comfortable living for your family then go for it.\n Another option would be to pay off the house and then wait until you have 25x expenses in investable assets.\n Having no mortgage would reduce your return requirement. Maybe your mortgage is $25k/y. You pay it off, and now your target is 25x75k or $1.85M.\n Also regarding SORR - your backup plan is that you are young enough to go back to work. SORR is worst in the first few years. You can go back to work at 40 and replenish the accounts if needed." }, { "id": "t1_oo2xfok", "author": "/u/Specialist-Ad7800", "updated": "2026-05-27T00:52:06+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oo2xfok/", "content": "Put 3-500k of your brokerage in bonds, rest growth mode - live off a combination of distributions off bonds (500k @ 6% = 30k /year ) and distributions off the rest ($1m taxable @ 5% in a growth & income model = $50k). The remaining $20k / year you will need to get more creative with using potentially a 72t or just principal distributions on the $1.5m taxable until you hit retirement age. Seems feasible but I’d consider a professional to put it together for you." }, { "id": "t1_oo30a29", "author": "/u/azndaemon", "updated": "2026-05-27T01:07:19+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oo30a29/", "content": "How much left on mortgage and value of the house?" }, { "id": "t1_oo3233i", "author": "/u/kebabby72", "updated": "2026-05-27T01:17:03+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oo3233i/", "content": "I retired at 45, 9 years ago. My net worth is now 90% more than what it was at the time and I've been mainly invested as moderately adventurous." }, { "id": "t1_oo34c2k", "author": "/u/Any_Elk7495", "updated": "2026-05-27T01:29:05+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oo34c2k/", "content": "I would do two more years and call it quits at 40. Your income is quite high" }, { "id": "t1_oo3dvy5", "author": "/u/joeshmoewasaho", "updated": "2026-05-27T02:20:25+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oo3dvy5/", "content": "Prob need more cash if you are going to retire tomorrow. Start costing at work and develop a withdrawal strategy over the next few years" }, { "id": "t1_oo3edsk", "author": "/u/Educational_Trash584", "updated": "2026-05-27T02:23:07+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oo3edsk/", "content": "Fuck to the yes. I would do what I wanted." }, { "id": "t1_oo3epru", "author": "/u/Thummimurim8", "updated": "2026-05-27T02:24:56+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oo3epru/", "content": "LOLL totally normal for permission. You just want some support.\n I personally wouldn’t FIRE at this point, but I would definitely quit my stressful job and find a job that makes me happy and lets me spend time at home, even if it pays less. You’re comfortable, but still borderline shit can hit the fan." }, { "id": "t1_oo3qqwd", "author": "/u/imaclutz89", "updated": "2026-05-27T03:33:49+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oo3qqwd/", "content": "We are at about the same and absolutely not. I would think about coast fire instead.\n Also, did you consider having to add health insurance to your target spend? I am self-employed and can confirm the rates on the market are awful. We pay $2k/mo for a family of 4." }, { "id": "t1_oo3t1m0", "author": "/u/princemousey1", "updated": "2026-05-27T03:47:48+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oo3t1m0/", "content": "As you said, you are “at the line” in the middle of a bull run. You need to be “at the line” even after the run ends. So, yeah, couple more years." }, { "id": "t1_oo3wu9h", "author": "/u/Xy13", "updated": "2026-05-27T04:11:54+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oo3wu9h/", "content": "4% rule is for a traditional retirement age, ~30 year retirement. By 30 years you'd just be hitting that age." }, { "id": "t1_oo3xnai", "author": "/u/Bitter-Variation-151", "updated": "2026-05-27T04:17:15+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oo3xnai/", "content": "Yes. I retired with 1.6M five years ago. Now it's 2.8M. Markets can go up too" }, { "id": "t1_oo41o36", "author": "/u/shotparrot", "updated": "2026-05-27T04:44:41+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oo41o36/", "content": "That’s a long runway. A lot of things can happen. I would work 5 more years just to be safe.\n Keep grinding.\n Then check in with us again." }, { "id": "t1_oo4bqre", "author": "/u/Just_Avocado2761", "updated": "2026-05-27T05:59:00+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oo4bqre/", "content": "Yes right away, even with 1.5" }, { "id": "t1_oo4d93y", "author": "/u/diyandmc240", "updated": "2026-05-27T06:10:43+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oo4d93y/", "content": "You said your target spend is about 100k/year. Is that measured data from the last couple years? I.e. did you actually track your expenses and see what they were? That’s the best way to know what you are spending vs. shooting for a target. When you retire, it’s unlikely that your spending will change much. The opportunity to save more with your extra time is about equally balanced out by the extra time you want to fill with activities.\n I’m personally inclined to believe that the 4% rule is better for more typical retirement ages(55+). When you are in your 40s or younger, I’d lean towards 2.5-3% as more conservative, since you have such a long runway, and re-entering the workforce after 10 years away can be difficult to match your current income.\n I’d recommend either working a couple more years, trying to give it a go at getting your expenses down to around 70-80k per year, or both at the same time." }, { "id": "t1_oo4vaxp", "author": "/u/larry-the-dream", "updated": "2026-05-27T08:41:28+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oo4vaxp/", "content": "Personally, and especially with a wife and kid, there is a lot more life coming your way. I’d plan to work a minimum of another 5-10 years before asking myself this question.\n You’re still in the messy middle phase of life. Keep trucking brother." }, { "id": "t1_oo53yk0", "author": "/u/No_Iron_9220", "updated": "2026-05-27T09:54:28+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oo53yk0/", "content": "At $250k a year I'd ride it out until retirement if it were me.\n I was with you on 2.5 million = $100k withdrawl rate. Now with inflation, that doesn't feel as comfy. We are aiming for $4 million and a paid off main house. Maybe its because I'm not as burnt out and still in my early 40s." }, { "id": "t1_oo5l70o", "author": "/u/PAGSDIII", "updated": "2026-05-27T11:51:05+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oo5l70o/", "content": "No" }, { "id": "t1_oo5nz1r", "author": "/u/interbingung", "updated": "2026-05-27T12:06:58+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oo5nz1r/", "content": "Maybe wait until your kid are independent otherwise for me it feels irresponsible to fire now." }, { "id": "t1_oo77u4a", "author": "/u/Tossaway198832", "updated": "2026-05-27T16:27:18+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oo77u4a/", "content": "I’d prob work another few years, or find a lower stress job that pays 50%. Also depends if your wife returns to work.\n Depends, my number is 3M and I’m 43, 2 kids but my spouse enjoys her job and plans to keep working so that covers insurance and 50% of our spending, so I’ll be drawing very little out of the 3M. I still have aways to go and am aiming for 48" }, { "id": "t1_oo8m679", "author": "/u/wooneigh", "updated": "2026-05-27T20:04:05+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oo8m679/", "content": "I like your style of writing. Looking forward to reading your replies to every comment here 😆" }, { "id": "t1_oo9665z", "author": "/u/TwoSocialist", "updated": "2026-05-27T21:35:51+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oo9665z/", "content": "Appreciate you stranger" }, { "id": "t1_oo8mb7u", "author": "/u/PShiverz", "updated": "2026-05-27T20:04:43+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oo8mb7u/", "content": "Is this just your savings or yours+spouse?" }, { "id": "t1_oo9dxph", "author": "/u/BamXuberant", "updated": "2026-05-27T22:14:13+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oo9dxph/", "content": "The fact the government gets almost half of your retirement fund boils my blood. Ridiculous." }, { "id": "t1_oo9mzqh", "author": "/u/yolo-sv", "updated": "2026-05-27T23:01:49+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oo9mzqh/", "content": "What happens if stocks correct 50% for a few yrs. Will u be in the back of a Wendy’s dumpster offering services..? Keep working, ur 38, try to get to 5-10m by 45/50 then retire. You’ll be relatively insulated from shocks to ur portfolio" }, { "id": "t1_op1wt9c", "author": "/u/Gemmajean717", "updated": "2026-06-01T02:05:55+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/op1wt9c/", "content": "I think you absolutely can . You can always go back to work or find another way to make money if you change your mind. You have one life do what is best for you and will make you happy. No one has ever said I wish I worked more or made more money but almost everyone says I wish I spent more time with my loved ones or traveled more ." }, { "id": "t1_oo13jcl", "author": "/u/Exciting_Scar_9953", "updated": "2026-05-26T19:23:29+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oo13jcl/", "content": "yes you can, but work a nice part time job for a while that you enjoy" }, { "id": "t1_oo14xud", "author": "/u/Inthemarginoferror", "updated": "2026-05-26T19:29:49+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oo14xud/", "content": "I'd stop doing work I didnt enjoy. Maybe take a pay cut and work at a non-profit, and supplement my income at a 1-2% withdrawal rate." }, { "id": "t1_oo15ydx", "author": "/u/fodas3255", "updated": "2026-05-26T19:34:28+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oo15ydx/", "content": "How can one have so much money by 38? 400K a year salary for twenty years?" }, { "id": "t1_oo16wgt", "author": "/u/TwoSocialist", "updated": "2026-05-26T19:38:48+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oo16wgt/", "content": "Save 50% of your salary and get lucky with historical bull markets?\n Average salary is about 140k?" }, { "id": "t1_oo16k7r", "author": "/u/MelvinEatsBlubber", "updated": "2026-05-26T19:37:15+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oo16k7r/", "content": "No. I like to work.\n I’d just focus on the parts I like the best which is teaching others new skills and giving them a chance to grow so they can pass it on" }, { "id": "t1_oo1803t", "author": "/u/Awake-2Day", "updated": "2026-05-26T19:43:50+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oo1803t/", "content": "If it’s a Nasdaq correlated portfolio, 80/20’or higher.( which it sounds like it is if today’s 1% move yielded the $40k). 4% is uber conservative." }, { "id": "t1_oo18x1u", "author": "/u/Disastrous_Soup5314", "updated": "2026-05-26T19:48:02+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oo18x1u/", "content": "Married? kids?" }, { "id": "t1_oo19lzw", "author": "/u/Cainholio", "updated": "2026-05-26T19:51:11+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oo19lzw/", "content": "Yuh" }, { "id": "t1_oo19p2z", "author": "/u/BigFourFlameout", "updated": "2026-05-26T19:51:34+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oo19p2z/", "content": "What I might do is quit to work on games and treat it as a break+. If you love it and can monetize it, great! If you can’t monetize it, see how you feel doing nothing. If you hate that, look for fulfilling part time work. If you can’t make that work, see how your portfolio performs over the time you did the prior steps and assess whether or not you think it will survive. I think you’re probably good no matter what you choose!" }, { "id": "t1_oo1a2w0", "author": "/u/EqualSein", "updated": "2026-05-26T19:53:19+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oo1a2w0/", "content": "There is a middle ground between quit and never work again and continue working this high paying soul crushing job. First of all use your FU money to negotiate a change in your position, explain to your boss or skip level what parts of your job drive you nits. If you're willing to leave then you have nothing to lose. You can also try to stop caring, what are they going to do fire you? Realistically you'd get bumped to the top of the layoff list for a sweet paid vacation." }, { "id": "t1_oo1adtj", "author": "/u/No_Cheetah_954", "updated": "2026-05-26T19:54:43+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oo1adtj/", "content": "What do you do now?" }, { "id": "t1_oo1b1eh", "author": "/u/Healthy_Razzmatazz38", "updated": "2026-05-26T19:57:40+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oo1b1eh/", "content": "if any post starts with that much hate, id take a step back and try to find something you like before deciding to 'retire'.\n Whenever i see a post like this i'm reminded of this song https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AQ1ogv41A3E" }, { "id": "t1_oo1b64b", "author": "/u/6100315", "updated": "2026-05-26T19:58:16+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oo1b64b/", "content": "Yup" }, { "id": "t1_oo1bcm0", "author": "/u/alphawolf29", "updated": "2026-05-26T19:59:06+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oo1bcm0/", "content": "Yes. 2m and id be on the fence and thinm about it for a year. Unfortunately never going to happen." }, { "id": "t1_oo1c9zd", "author": "/u/yousedditheddit", "updated": "2026-05-26T20:03:20+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oo1c9zd/", "content": "Are you in field and/or do you have strong professional connections that would make part time contracting/consulting viable? If so I would recommend exploring that. You're very safely in coast territory so if we you able to create a much less stressful setup where you work 3-4 days a week you could likely live off that while your portfolio grows for a few more years.\n Personally I'm in a similar fincial situation and (rightfully or not) am hesitant to pull the trigger at 4% with how volatile the market seems right now. Also have you factored in healthcare costs? They aren't small and ACA isn't something I'd trust to be around either...\n TLDR: I don't think your ready to RE but you sure got FI money. Make a change to improve your life that still generates some income, just less than what you make today." }, { "id": "t1_oo1d4n9", "author": "/u/FeelingGuest7153", "updated": "2026-05-26T20:07:10+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oo1d4n9/", "content": "Hit 3 million and then retire" }, { "id": "t1_oo1el53", "author": "/u/CleMike69", "updated": "2026-05-26T20:13:51+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oo1el53/", "content": "Nah I’d wait till 48 and retire with ten million" }, { "id": "t1_oo1gt12", "author": "/u/sloth_333", "updated": "2026-05-26T20:23:54+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oo1gt12/", "content": "No, but I’d be well on my way. I want to~5M plus before I call it quits so 2.4 at 38, gives me that around 45." }, { "id": "t1_oo1iefs", "author": "/u/usawolf", "updated": "2026-05-26T20:31:05+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oo1iefs/", "content": "Yes" }, { "id": "t1_oo1ihhk", "author": "/u/mat6toob2024", "updated": "2026-05-26T20:31:28+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oo1ihhk/", "content": "Not enough ,unless you can continue to compound the money\n Healthcare cost , family , insurance for properties etc" }, { "id": "t1_oo1k232", "author": "/u/mhoepfin", "updated": "2026-05-26T20:38:37+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oo1k232/", "content": "Definitely you should take a few years off and move on to doing things you enjoy. You have enough." }, { "id": "t1_oo1kgtr", "author": "/u/rh681", "updated": "2026-05-26T20:40:28+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oo1kgtr/", "content": "The further you are away from 65, the more careful I would be. A lot can happen. Heck the whole ACA could go away in <20 years. Who knows?\n You're in an extremely good spot though. If you could tough it out a few more years and cross $3M, I'd say you are more safe. And yes, for those keeping track, I did indeed pull that number out of my butt.\n I say this, and only to be pessimistic and crush your dreams, that we are probably due for a market correction." }, { "id": "t1_oo1mk56", "author": "/u/BasicAstronomer128", "updated": "2026-05-26T20:49:57+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oo1mk56/", "content": "Yes." }, { "id": "t1_oo1ofnm", "author": "/u/craigybacha", "updated": "2026-05-26T20:58:28+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oo1ofnm/", "content": "Yes." }, { "id": "t1_oo1rnjc", "author": "/u/armorabito", "updated": "2026-05-26T21:13:27+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oo1rnjc/", "content": "Why not work til 45 and double it? or better? You are very young and not sure 2.4 is enough." }, { "id": "t1_oo1rrcn", "author": "/u/ErikTheBikeman", "updated": "2026-05-26T21:13:57+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oo1rrcn/", "content": "Your target spend is ~30% higher than the median household income BEFORE taxes - cost of living differs sure, but my point is that tens, even hundreds of millions of people are making it work every day with less. Take a sabbatical at the very least and spend time with your family to decompress.\n Trading time for money is a one way decision that once made can never, ever be unmade. No amount of wishing or regret will ever bring that time back.\n A good friend of mine passed away suddenly from a random brain embolism at 42 - probably could have retired, but with the new baby he was very much in "just a few more years" mode. He left behind a 1-year old daughter that never got to meet her dad, and he never got to meet the person she grew up to be. She's 14 now.\n Take the time." }, { "id": "t1_oo1soua", "author": "/u/kobelco1", "updated": "2026-05-26T21:18:16+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oo1soua/", "content": "Someone who can craft a sentence which includes, "fueled entirely by spite and index funds" has already reached mental FIRE.\n Here's the sign you're looking from an internet stranger: you're good to go." }, { "id": "t1_oo1t43d", "author": "/u/Grewhit", "updated": "2026-05-26T21:20:15+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oo1t43d/", "content": "I'm about to turn 37 with a wife and 3 year old. Currently at 2.95m with an annual spend of 100k with 120k on years with significant house work.\n I am planning for a retirement spend of 140k to be safe and to account for Healthcare.\n I would likely work longer in your shoes, but I would not hesitate to take a sabbatical.\n My wife just recently got back into work after being a sahm and I'm planning to quit and become the sahp. This is primarily how my wife and I plan to "coast" and take advantage of our good fortune. Trade off who is working every couple of years to maximize time with our kid and to make sure neither spouse burns out from work or parenting.\n I imagine work stints will move away from corporate America into more passion driven endeavors as we get further and further into not needing to work territory." }, { "id": "t1_oo1toc7", "author": "/u/JennaJourney123", "updated": "2026-05-26T21:22:55+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oo1toc7/", "content": "I’d be retiring at 4M or 45 or so.. given your progress age and income. I’d play tennis all day every day. Good stuff man!" }, { "id": "t1_oo1tr4s", "author": "/u/Zelda-Yat-NOLA", "updated": "2026-05-26T21:23:18+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oo1tr4s/", "content": "Make sure you convert it all into ROTH or you will have crazy taxes and IRMAA taxes. Great job and congrats!" }, { "id": "t1_oo1urm6", "author": "/u/br3ndal33", "updated": "2026-05-26T21:28:08+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oo1urm6/", "content": "R" }, { "id": "t1_oo1vn2l", "author": "/u/kodaixo", "updated": "2026-05-26T21:32:19+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oo1vn2l/", "content": "Yes 100%" }, { "id": "t1_oo1xjnv", "author": "/u/lifeHopes21", "updated": "2026-05-26T21:41:28+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oo1xjnv/", "content": "Today’s gain 40K, you must be in highly volatile stocks. I wouldn’t recommend retiring unless you are minimizing the risk" }, { "id": "t1_oo1yb1g", "author": "/u/jbblog84", "updated": "2026-05-26T21:45:10+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oo1yb1g/", "content": "Take 4-6 months off. Get a Part time gig doing something for fun money. I assume if you were making that much money you can probably consult for $75+ per hour pretty easily. The best part is if you don’t like the new gig quit." }, { "id": "t1_oo1ydyy", "author": "/u/kissing_the_beehive", "updated": "2026-05-26T21:45:34+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oo1ydyy/", "content": "Congrats! I’m same age and about 400k behind you. Same salary too haha. I’m in a VCoL city though so no plans to retire anytime soon. But it’s amazing safety net for when life happens" }, { "id": "t1_oo20qn6", "author": "/u/rair21", "updated": "2026-05-26T21:57:04+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oo20qn6/", "content": "I got bored very fast. It's been about 3 years retired under 40. All my friends are working. I can't really enjoy my money because my kids are too small to travel or even get out on the water, so I'm just kinda chilling at the house bored waiting on some opportunities. Work would be an outlet for me at this point even though I don't need the money." }, { "id": "t1_oo25fcz", "author": "/u/NevaGonnaCatchMe", "updated": "2026-05-26T22:21:13+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oo25fcz/", "content": "Coast fire ?" }, { "id": "t1_oo25lox", "author": "/u/Sevwin", "updated": "2026-05-26T22:22:08+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oo25lox/", "content": "Naw I’d coast" }, { "id": "t1_oo27gil", "author": "/u/Electrical_Sun_7116", "updated": "2026-05-26T22:32:05+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oo27gil/", "content": "I’d dial it back to a job if I didn’t love my career- some flavor of making my specialized hobby-of-choice knowledge my semi retirement gig. For me that would probably be a fishing charter or some other way to write off boats and fishing gear lmao" }, { "id": "t1_oo27h6o", "author": "/u/Far-Tiger-165", "updated": "2026-05-26T22:32:11+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oo27h6o/", "content": "I’d learn to make it work on 75K & quit tomorrow" }, { "id": "t1_oo27inj", "author": "/u/Mootaya", "updated": "2026-05-26T22:32:24+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oo27inj/", "content": "That brokerage is wild. What have you been investing in? The ETF’s have been that good to you?" }, { "id": "t1_oo288ky", "author": "/u/Bouldershoulders12", "updated": "2026-05-26T22:36:16+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oo288ky/", "content": "I would push it to 45ish but quite quit . By 45 you’ll have so much excess to handle 99.9% of storms .\n Assuming the market doesn’t do anything crazy you could be sitting on $4M at least by then" }, { "id": "t1_oo2atuy", "author": "/u/Advanced_Singer_1675", "updated": "2026-05-26T22:50:06+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oo2atuy/", "content": "What’s your debt level? You mentioned housing. I’m assuming paid off?" }, { "id": "t1_oo2cbhs", "author": "/u/samorai33", "updated": "2026-05-26T22:57:57+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oo2cbhs/", "content": "yes" }, { "id": "t1_oo2clch", "author": "/u/Future-Run-8601", "updated": "2026-05-26T22:59:23+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oo2clch/", "content": "I would wait until at least $3M considering you aren't even 40 and the market is frothy. How much of the $100k is discretionary and are you willing to live on 3% if the markets go bad and stay down? Does the $100k include taxes and health insurance?\n You certainly have enough to go do something you really enjoy even if it only pays $40-50k." }, { "id": "t1_oo2klkr", "author": "/u/Fun-Room-6501", "updated": "2026-05-26T23:42:13+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oo2klkr/", "content": "Yes I would!" }, { "id": "t1_oo2onpz", "author": "/u/dixiedownunder", "updated": "2026-05-27T00:04:10+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oo2onpz/", "content": "If you work remotely, I'd probably keep going a bit more." }, { "id": "t1_oo2s18e", "author": "/u/Beaver-on-fire", "updated": "2026-05-27T00:22:44+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oo2s18e/", "content": "I want to fire now, at half that amount. However for every additional year I work, I get an extra 5 to 10K being generated from my principal. Just one or two more years... It's always just one or two more...." }, { "id": "t1_oo2uivi", "author": "/u/Ok-Gazelle-4847", "updated": "2026-05-27T00:36:23+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oo2uivi/", "content": "You did it! Reminded me of this clip from the Gambler with John Goodman.\n https://youtube.com/shorts/cEsJdQRGYuM?si=Uxs4eEVsLHhXb4ay" }, { "id": "t1_oo2umtw", "author": "/u/dudermagee", "updated": "2026-05-27T00:36:59+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oo2umtw/", "content": "Test your retirement plan.\n Live off a budget as if you were retired for a couple years. Factor in increasing healthcare costs. Take that extra money and build a bond ladder." }, { "id": "t1_oo2uro9", "author": "/u/SuperSecretSpare", "updated": "2026-05-27T00:37:44+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oo2uro9/", "content": "Yup" }, { "id": "t1_oo30tv2", "author": "/u/burnersg", "updated": "2026-05-27T01:10:17+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oo30tv2/", "content": "Would I? No. Should you? No. But maybe switch to something that gives you more joy" }, { "id": "t1_oo30y5y", "author": "/u/PIzzaiolo_Master_510", "updated": "2026-05-27T01:10:57+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oo30y5y/", "content": "I was at that level. Worked until early 50s then retired with over $6m portfolio. It’s now almost $18m (early 60s).\n $2m isn’t what it used to be, but it is doable. I preferred more working time as I enjoyed my work and liked making the money, but you might prefer a lean retirement.\n Up to you. Obviously with my spending I could have retired at your age with your portfolio and still done great as we don’t spend much. I do enjoy watching the financial windfalls though and giving to charities now." }, { "id": "t1_oo31xh0", "author": "/u/NasUS30", "updated": "2026-05-27T01:16:12+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oo31xh0/", "content": "Yes" }, { "id": "t1_oo32f83", "author": "/u/Ienjoymodels", "updated": "2026-05-27T01:18:51+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oo32f83/", "content": "yeah" }, { "id": "t1_oo34mxu", "author": "/u/rr90013", "updated": "2026-05-27T01:30:40+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oo34mxu/", "content": "I wouldn’t retire yet unless you’re confident that your cost-of-living will really be that low. That would be unheard of in my VHCOL area." }, { "id": "t1_oo34x74", "author": "", "updated": "2026-05-27T01:32:12+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oo34x74/", "content": "[deleted]" }, { "id": "t1_oo39vh4", "author": "/u/Zphr", "updated": "2026-05-27T01:58:40+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oo39vh4/", "content": "Rule 2/No Self-Promo/Spam - No self-promotion or spam. Please see our rules ( https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/about/rules/ ) and reach out via modmail if you have any questions or concerns." }, { "id": "t1_oo37bvx", "author": "/u/SpecialistKoala9765", "updated": "2026-05-27T01:45:18+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oo37bvx/", "content": "Congrats! You don’t need permission from Reddit but for sure we all can use some advise from strangers as a sounding board. Here’s my thoughts for my own situation - 4% rule is based on 30 years time horizon. For my own RE, I chose 3% to absorb volatility buffer -sequence of return risk scares me too, so I allocate at least 3 years of cash reserve so I live on those cash if market crash right after I pull the trigger - as RE, I’d expect most of my portfolio beats inflation, and only equity can do it after tax. So I still aim for 70% equity for now and maybe 80% but not sure yet …. I know I may sound too conservative but I rather safe than sorry" }, { "id": "t1_oo38w3v", "author": "/u/JMCompGuy", "updated": "2026-05-27T01:53:30+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oo38w3v/", "content": "It's about what you spend, not about how much you have. Insurance can be expensive and can be even more expensive if you don't have any.\n You likely have enough to stop doing work you don't enjoy." }, { "id": "t1_oo3d514", "author": "/u/dic_wagner", "updated": "2026-05-27T02:16:17+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oo3d514/", "content": "If you are retiring to something and not from something." }, { "id": "t1_oo3d92l", "author": "/u/Clock586", "updated": "2026-05-27T02:16:54+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oo3d92l/", "content": "Depends on the job you have. If it were me, I’d go reduced hours for reduced pay if possible. Or transfer to a different position with less responsibility within the company if possible. Just my two cents" }, { "id": "t1_oo3dldw", "author": "/u/fredochanio", "updated": "2026-05-27T02:18:47+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oo3dldw/", "content": "Now is a good time to think more deeply about safe withdrawals. ERN’s blog series is the OG on this. Your SWR is probably around 3.5%, but check out the excel tool on his website. And yes, you want some years worth of bonds to omit SORR, given your time horizon and current market prices." }, { "id": "t1_oo3dmy2", "author": "/u/ill-just-buy-more", "updated": "2026-05-27T02:19:02+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oo3dmy2/", "content": "Nope" }, { "id": "t1_oo3h3qk", "author": "/u/Kokukenji", "updated": "2026-05-27T02:38:11+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oo3h3qk/", "content": "If the numbers makes sense, sure but you also have to ask yourself, will you be mentally happy retiring at such a young age?" }, { "id": "t1_oo3i1bi", "author": "/u/ovirt001", "updated": "2026-05-27T02:43:06+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oo3i1bi/", "content": "Nah but I'd either coast or focus on the things I really want to do. Or both." }, { "id": "t1_oo3m0ih", "author": "/u/ZAlternates", "updated": "2026-05-27T03:05:40+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oo3m0ih/", "content": "I’m close to you but single. I’m not ready thus i doubt you are with a family." }, { "id": "t1_oo3pfo6", "author": "/u/Bkdvet", "updated": "2026-05-27T03:25:48+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oo3pfo6/", "content": "yep!" }, { "id": "t1_oo3sf2r", "author": "/u/princemousey1", "updated": "2026-05-27T03:43:58+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oo3sf2r/", "content": "Yes, of course. Just rebalance it properly." }, { "id": "t1_oo3x7m2", "author": "/u/Altruistic_Leopard_9", "updated": "2026-05-27T04:14:22+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oo3x7m2/", "content": "What do people do for health insurance when they retire early? Seems expensive." }, { "id": "t1_oo4d8no", "author": "/u/OhmyPrint", "updated": "2026-05-27T06:10:37+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oo4d8no/", "content": "I have a similar amount. Add another million when I sell my condo and 2.5 mil once I sell the biz.\n So 5 million but minus a lot of tax.\n Regardless it seems im set up but I did hire a fee only financial advisor for $6000. He had 6 x 1.5 hour sessions in a deep dive of assets and expenses. I have 47\n We found if I sell my place and biz I am set up but if I dont and its just the 2 million I am only at a 80% success rate til 95\n According to his massive retirement calculator. Of course 95 is an advanced age so odds are im safe even then. But he says it would be terrible to run out of money at 82 though.\n Anyway I have a lot of expenses as a world traveler. So my situation is different than yours but it depends on expenses and even where u are from. For example in america u might get a huge medical expense and need an emergency stash.\n My answer would be. It depends on your expenses and your lifestyle. And if u are setting aside any additional money spent.\n 4% is great but who is to say that maybe u want to spend $35 000 on something 10 years from now. Would you be able to? Are u content never being able to?\n Your situation its certainly possible but I also dont think u should rush into it. Thats only my personal opinion. But I also agree with others. Don't work forever because u think u have to. Enjoy life and the fruits of your labour as soon as u can!\n But looking back. If someone your age retired in 2014 or 2012. Does it really make a difference?" }, { "id": "t1_oo4h7r8", "author": "/u/lastbeat-331", "updated": "2026-05-27T06:42:17+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oo4h7r8/", "content": "You could coastfire. Or barista fire if you can cut expenses in half." }, { "id": "t1_oo4hy49", "author": "/u/IntolerantModerate", "updated": "2026-05-27T06:48:05+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oo4hy49/", "content": "I saw you want to be an entrepreneur in gaming/app space. Those are tough.\n But, could you start to just care less at work (keep pulling the paycheck while doing bare minimum), work on your game part time in evenings, and make sure to enjoy the next few years while still saving.\n Maybe not even think about what you save for next two years as retirement funds, but as seed money for your venture?" }, { "id": "t1_oo4idj0", "author": "/u/Few-Crew9509", "updated": "2026-05-27T06:51:30+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oo4idj0/", "content": "May I ask how you got to 2.2M in etf/mutual funds? Not asking for the specifics but just curious when you started and what the contribution plan looked like. I’m trying to create a similar outcome for my toddler." }, { "id": "t1_oo4lhml", "author": "/u/cybershibas", "updated": "2026-05-27T07:16:45+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oo4lhml/", "content": "Yes" }, { "id": "t1_oo4n1eh", "author": "/u/WideAd2062", "updated": "2026-05-27T07:29:49+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oo4n1eh/", "content": "Retire if you are fortunate enough to have the opportunity" }, { "id": "t1_oo4pmse", "author": "/u/rxruiz", "updated": "2026-05-27T07:52:01+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oo4pmse/", "content": "Don’t have as much saved as you. Been on an..extended sabbatical for 3+ years\n Have you given thought to take a few years off to spend with the wife/child and then decide if you want to return to the workforce?\n You’ll likely have a different mindset though and much less tolerance for corporate bs" }, { "id": "t1_oo57lsq", "author": "/u/Aggravating_Bench552", "updated": "2026-05-27T10:22:15+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oo57lsq/", "content": "Solid portfolio! I’m 36 with 1.54M, but our burn is only 42k/yr and considering quitting my job within the next 3-9 months. I think in your situation You’ve allowed yourself at least a brief hiatus to take a career break, see how your portfolio performs, while testing your withdrawal strategy. Personally, I’d aim for a more conservative SWR given you’re hovering around 4%. We’re at 2.74% SWR and I feel we need to get it lower, but that’s likely because retiring so young is rare.\n For the sake of lower withdrawals, have you considered shifting to part time work for spending money and lowering your withdrawal rate to simply offset expenses? The unique aspect is that you can tweak your plan to fit various scenarios" }, { "id": "t1_oo57zg3", "author": "/u/deputy42", "updated": "2026-05-27T10:25:04+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oo57zg3/", "content": "Yes" }, { "id": "t1_oo58t77", "author": "/u/Foolgazi", "updated": "2026-05-27T10:31:01+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oo58t77/", "content": "If you were single and planned to stay that way I’d say quit your job and live your best life. But married with a kid… I’d want another mill." }, { "id": "t1_oo5a28o", "author": "/u/Iron-Ham", "updated": "2026-05-27T10:39:51+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oo5a28o/", "content": "I can’t answer this for you, and I don’t think any of us can.\n What I can do is ask clarifying questions. What’s your burn rate? How’s your health? Where do you plan to live? What do you want to do with your time? How prepped are you for a surprise $100k bill, and how often?" }, { "id": "t1_oo5a327", "author": "/u/Crazy_Pomegranate689", "updated": "2026-05-27T10:40:00+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oo5a327/", "content": "yep" }, { "id": "t1_oo5cr2q", "author": "/u/EmbizzleMyNizzle", "updated": "2026-05-27T10:58:09+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oo5cr2q/", "content": "i’d teach at a private school. Easy kids, long summers, extra 60-70k plus benefits." }, { "id": "t1_oo5ttnv", "author": "/u/Famous_Translator616", "updated": "2026-05-27T12:38:33+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oo5ttnv/", "content": "I always thought teaching at private schools you get paid less. And i would venture to guess dealing with the parents at those schools is worse." }, { "id": "t1_oo5czrx", "author": "/u/Agile_Sympathy_6947", "updated": "2026-05-27T10:59:45+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oo5czrx/", "content": "Yes." }, { "id": "t1_oo5ez9x", "author": "/u/AdventurousElk1900", "updated": "2026-05-27T11:12:54+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oo5ez9x/", "content": "12-18 months break. After that make another evaluation about making some work in the departments you enjoy..." }, { "id": "t1_oo5iqzz", "author": "/u/Effyew4t5", "updated": "2026-05-27T11:36:39+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oo5iqzz/", "content": "How well would you manage if everything dropped by half? If not good then keep going" }, { "id": "t1_oo5ld03", "author": "/u/Chicken121260", "updated": "2026-05-27T11:52:02+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oo5ld03/", "content": "Following the 4% rule includes the money lasting 30 years, not indefinitely. At 68 there’s a good chance you will be broke.\n I’d probably work for a few more years for cushion at current income, or perhaps look for an opportunity that you might enjoy for a longer period of time where you income matches your expenses - don’t deplete your investments and allow them to grow\n As always, I recommend moving to low cost of living area (or at list mid) when you retire to reduce fixed expenses." }, { "id": "t1_oo5mm0d", "author": "/u/Specken_zee_Doitch", "updated": "2026-05-27T11:59:13+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oo5mm0d/", "content": "I'd take an inventory of what I want from my life and start pursuing that." }, { "id": "t1_oo5n33n", "author": "/u/ECrispy", "updated": "2026-05-27T12:01:56+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oo5n33n/", "content": "Is anyone else tired of these posts? this level of wealth is probably richer than 99% (or maybe its 95-98, same thing), it just comes across as a boast about how rich you are.\n Is it bad to feel jealous of people who have high paying jobs that allow this level of saving? on the other hand they make smart investing decisions, so its a good reminder that this works." }, { "id": "t1_oo5xg5i", "author": "/u/Notme20659", "updated": "2026-05-27T12:57:12+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oo5xg5i/", "content": "Nope. Never get tired of people seeing people being successful. Hard work pays off. But this guy is an idiot if he thinks that will last him the rest of his life, assuming he makes it to say 80." }, { "id": "t1_oo6hx1q", "author": "/u/Individual-Wafer-320", "updated": "2026-05-27T14:34:36+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oo6hx1q/", "content": "Suggest you stop coming to this sub then. Questions like these are literally right on topic." }, { "id": "t1_oo5nyp2", "author": "/u/CookieEnabled", "updated": "2026-05-27T12:06:55+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oo5nyp2/", "content": "You have the numbers. Calculate it!\n To have 100 K of spending per year as a millennial that will last you till end of life you are going to need between 3 to 4,000,000 and has enough buffer for any economic downturns." }, { "id": "t1_oo5uuog", "author": "/u/HxxP185", "updated": "2026-05-27T12:43:58+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oo5uuog/", "content": "Retire when market is 10-15% down from all time high and see if it still makes sense." }, { "id": "t1_oo5zjql", "author": "/u/TomorrowPlenty9205", "updated": "2026-05-27T13:07:49+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oo5zjql/", "content": "a 50/50 stock bond split with a 50 year outlook (live to 89) in a Monte Carlo Simulation give a 13.3% chance of failure or an 86.7% chance of success. That $100K is including medical cost for a family of 3? $20K is enough for your kids college? How much wiggle room is in that $100K/year? If the markets crashed could you live off $70K or $50K for a few years, which can reduce your failure rate of 13.3%.\n I am not saying retire or don't retire, but asking how much risk you are comfortable with. At this point, your wealth is likely growing by around $250K per year, ~7% growth plus putting away another $100K. Starting at $2.65M, next year, would lower your risk from 13.3% to 8.4% (same $100K draw rate) and $2.9M, two years from now it drops to 5.3%. Is working one or two more years for a lower risk of failure worth it?" }, { "id": "t1_oo60pw4", "author": "/u/paladyr", "updated": "2026-05-27T13:13:35+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oo60pw4/", "content": "Depends on what 1.5m "brokerage" means. Is that cash?" }, { "id": "t1_oo61r7p", "author": "/u/bassali2e", "updated": "2026-05-27T13:18:39+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oo61r7p/", "content": "I just kind of changed my lifestyle. Is it lifestyle inflation? Absolutely. I'm happy with my home but still have a little mortgage left. We've got 2 fairly new cars.\n Chipping away at some minor renovation with cash from day job. My partner isn't working at all right now. Not saying she never will but summer is coming and all that. We're at a point where we have to work for things we want but the retirement nest egg is pretty secure.\n I've been working about 20 weeks a year for the last few years. If I switch my routine up at all it will be just for big money short jobs once a year or some thing.\n So I guess for me would I retire? No, not yet. But there has been a mindset shift. I might still want a little more house and I want to keep that option open too." }, { "id": "t1_oo62r8m", "author": "/u/tpet007", "updated": "2026-05-27T13:23:28+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oo62r8m/", "content": "Expenses? Can’t figure your net income without them. I know I’d be retired in your shoes but that’s because I know my own yearly spend." }, { "id": "t1_oo65lro", "author": "/u/Action1988", "updated": "2026-05-27T13:37:19+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oo65lro/", "content": "I'm 38 and plan to retire at 55. If I woke up tomorrow with $2.4m I would leave work so fast my head would spin." }, { "id": "t1_oo65lxc", "author": "/u/wish_you_a_nice_day", "updated": "2026-05-27T13:37:21+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oo65lxc/", "content": "I personally would. But this is a very personal decision" }, { "id": "t1_oo68zw1", "author": "/u/FantasyFI", "updated": "2026-05-27T13:53:23+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oo68zw1/", "content": "Not nearly enough information on spend to build confidence. Right or wrong, the language you use kills all confidence. Maybe on purpose to convey your lack of confidence?\n What do you actually spend currently? How will spending actually change when you retire? Have you factored health insurance? Have you factored taxes? Do you have a 529 for the kid? Just too many expense related questions.\n Combine this with an erratic portfolio, I would not retire. I would earn at least another year of $250k, learn your expenses, clean up you portfolio. Ditch the individual stocks. Ditch the mutual funds that aren't ETF's. Ditch or don't consider crypto as part of your portfolio. Retirement is life a pass : fail class in college. There is no difference between a C- and an A+. They both pass. You are increasing risk to "get more", which means nothing. You either run out of money or you don't. So why would you do things that increase the risk of running out of money.\n I'm not saying you need more money or you don't have enough. I'm saying you've done a poor job in the right up conveying your situation. This is one of the top 10 most important decisions you'll make. And you are talking about 50% of the equation...what do you spend?! Since this is so important, put some time and energy into. Determine your costs...accurately.\n You probably do have enough. Just feels like you are being haphazard about this." }, { "id": "t1_oo69bhr", "author": "/u/Pup5432", "updated": "2026-05-27T13:54:53+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oo69bhr/", "content": "My only concern would be health insurance. If the 100k accounts for that then congratulations lol, I hope to join you some day." }, { "id": "t1_oo69h3b", "author": "/u/Acrobatic_Stable_512", "updated": "2026-05-27T13:55:37+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oo69h3b/", "content": "Biggest questions: health insurance source post-retirement, philosophy on college savings for child, and if you have real estate. Overall I think the answer is “yes” but would recommend a fun hobby job as you need to do “something” and that can help pay some expenses so that you let the investments ride" }, { "id": "t1_oo6cpqb", "author": "/u/BigSmoove14", "updated": "2026-05-27T14:10:46+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oo6cpqb/", "content": "Inflation and market down can ruin your pot- I’d build higher maybe after 40 go for it" }, { "id": "t1_oo6dg4x", "author": "/u/XDC_1617", "updated": "2026-05-27T14:14:11+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oo6dg4x/", "content": "36M with similar investable asset. The more important question is what you gonna do after work disappear in your life. The hobbies (Travel, Sports, etc.) were attractive to you when you were exhausted from daily job. Once you spent the entire day on those hobbies, you would feel boring quickly." }, { "id": "t1_oo6hqgw", "author": "/u/No-Reaction-9364", "updated": "2026-05-27T14:33:47+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oo6hqgw/", "content": "At 100k spend, no way. The 4% rule is for a normal retirement not early retirement at your age. Aim for 3%. Can you thrive on 75k? What is your savings rate? Is your kids college fund funded? 3 more years probably gets you to 3.5k where you can 105k/yr @ 3% and are better protected from sequence of returns risks." }, { "id": "t1_oo6i5ff", "author": "/u/Background_Tie9793", "updated": "2026-05-27T14:35:39+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oo6i5ff/", "content": "The math works. I would look into understanding your psychological and emotional understanding of why not retiring.\n Also, you'll need a plan and figure what you be doing in place of work. Given that you save so much money, you're a goal driven person so I think you need something." }, { "id": "t1_oo6snau", "author": "/u/Odd-Elderberry-6137", "updated": "2026-05-27T15:21:58+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oo6snau/", "content": "I wouldn’t retire because that’s not actually that much to live on for 50 years. But I would stop worrying about money and do what I enjoy doing rather than doing what I have to do for money. A job that simply pays for living is all you need. This is absolutely coastFIRE territory." }, { "id": "t1_oo6v1ma", "author": "/u/Oatmeal-Addict-9", "updated": "2026-05-27T15:32:18+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oo6v1ma/", "content": "At $2.4M at age 38, you're good with retiring...ABROAD.\n Unfortunately, it's not enough to sustain you into old age once you factor in healthcare costs here in the U.S.\n At that income, I'd plan to grind it out for another five years and then consider taking your foot off the gas. You could be at $3.5M at that point. Don't forget to prioritize your health in the meantime." }, { "id": "t1_oo6yktn", "author": "/u/TotalRealistic7337", "updated": "2026-05-27T15:47:29+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oo6yktn/", "content": "That’s an amazing feat" }, { "id": "t1_oo6zcaj", "author": "/u/skarama", "updated": "2026-05-27T15:50:42+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oo6zcaj/", "content": "I am a little older than you with a little less than you, and with the numbers you have I'd absolutely stop my day job to fo us on writing, spending time with my family and travelling. However, I would not be touching that amount in the traditional sense, and would instead be withdrawing dividends from our TFSAs to live tax free on." }, { "id": "t1_oo71yyc", "author": "/u/ruroba", "updated": "2026-05-27T16:01:51+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oo71yyc/", "content": "Would retire from being an employee and invest in building passive income from real estate and your own businesses.\n In my case, I would love to see if I can crack the problem of creating a revenue generating animal shelter so that it is “no kill” but doesn’t depend on donations. It’s a hard problem and probably not much of an upside so wouldn’t do it now but if money weren’t a concern (b/c I’m living off of interests) I would love to pursue this" }, { "id": "t1_oo79jd0", "author": "/u/CherryRoutine9397", "updated": "2026-05-27T16:34:36+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oo79jd0/", "content": "Honestly, if I had £2.4M invested at 38, a paid off house on the way, and my spending was around $100k a year, I'd be seriously considering retirement too. At some point the goal has to stop being maximizing the portfolio and start being maximizing your life. Otherwise the target just keeps moving forever.\n That said, I'd probably run a few pessimistic scenarios first and make sure I could still sleep at night during a long bear market. I write about investing, financial independence and building wealth on a normal income in my weekly newsletter if that's your thing." }, { "id": "t1_oo7c65b", "author": "/u/Jimbo91397", "updated": "2026-05-27T16:45:52+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oo7c65b/", "content": "Send me the job info before you retire so I can get an application in early" }, { "id": "t1_oo7pk4e", "author": "/u/KillJarke", "updated": "2026-05-27T17:42:23+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oo7pk4e/", "content": "I’d still work somewhere for 10-15 hours a week of a place I’m interested in but full time? Absolutely would be done." }, { "id": "t1_oo7vxqy", "author": "/u/spacme2wealth21", "updated": "2026-05-27T18:09:09+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oo7vxqy/", "content": "yes without hesitation" }, { "id": "t1_oo88ntg", "author": "/u/ExpensiveAd1230", "updated": "2026-05-27T19:04:27+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oo88ntg/", "content": "While I believe yes you can FIRE with the above numbers, does it make you nervous being all in on the Market vs diversification into real estate with some? If the market drops 40%, we all know it comes back but physiologically it will feel a lot different in your scenario for the downtime." }, { "id": "t1_oo8g4dz", "author": "/u/Significant-Help-837", "updated": "2026-05-27T19:37:15+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oo8g4dz/", "content": "lol I would retire before! Depends on what you do in life and your goals tho…" }, { "id": "t1_oo8ohw6", "author": "/u/samurai_with_sword", "updated": "2026-05-27T20:14:35+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oo8ohw6/", "content": "Depends on where you live (monthly spending) and average return you are getting on your investments. According to the formula I use, with 2.4M savings and 100k a year spending, you can retire if you are getting 9% or more on average in investment returns. You have to work more if you are getting less than 9%. I just saw in one of your replies that you want to build games and create your own company. What I would suggest is: 1) Register your LLC on a weekend. It doesn't cost much, unless you are in California (California requires you to pay $800 every year even when your LLC is not generating any revenue). 2) Gradually phase out of your job instead of abrupt quit. Work on one of your easiest games on weekends, publish the first version or preview online and see how many people click. Start taking more vacations and time off. In about 3 to 4 months, once you have create an LLC, have 1 game preview and have already developed phasing out from the job mindset, you will be in a better position to make the decision." }, { "id": "t1_oo8tcba", "author": "/u/OrnatelyOrdinary", "updated": "2026-05-27T20:36:18+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oo8tcba/", "content": "You have enough to survive on, but every dollar you earn from this point on can go to enjoying your life more. If you could double it while still growing it, you open up a lot more doors. My plan is $6M or 50 - currently at 1.6 at 39. That should give me $300k/year to fly around wherever I want first class, not worrying about money ever as long as I keep my lifestyle inflation to travel related expenses, dining, and hobbies." }, { "id": "t1_oo8uos9", "author": "/u/Regular-Wasabi2425", "updated": "2026-05-27T20:42:24+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oo8uos9/", "content": "I'd work part time or do consulting roles esp at 250k per year that's a lot of income to just drop. Congrats tho well deserved, you clearly have nailed this!!! 🎉🎉🎉" }, { "id": "t1_oo9b7e8", "author": "/u/Standard_Sympathy_62", "updated": "2026-05-27T22:00:22+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oo9b7e8/", "content": "This is where you talk to a fiduciary. If I were you, I’d retire and spend time with your family" }, { "id": "t1_oo9cyh2", "author": "/u/Uncommon-Sinkho4228", "updated": "2026-05-27T22:09:13+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oo9cyh2/", "content": "Sorry for the stupid question yall, but how do you guys do research on how to invest your money for retirement? I have a 401k, but I’m always scared that it will never be enough. I’m 28 and have no debt and work two jobs. I’m genuinely sorry Admin if this is not acceptable" }, { "id": "t1_oo9tlqd", "author": "/u/JackOfHeartsz", "updated": "2026-05-27T23:37:47+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oo9tlqd/", "content": "I would retire and readjust portfolio to generate dividends to live off of and portion some of it into index etfs for continued growth. If you’re generating dividends more than you consume congrats, put some back into the same dividend generating vehicle and compound it. Leave 6 months of emergency funds in money market securities is a good idea. Don’t want to sell at a loss if market goes down." }, { "id": "t1_oo9uiwb", "author": "/u/Existing_Touch5399", "updated": "2026-05-27T23:42:50+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oo9uiwb/", "content": "How much do u need to retire with simple lifestyle in california at 50 years" }, { "id": "t1_ooa1sdu", "author": "/u/Maleficent-Lack-3023", "updated": "2026-05-28T00:22:55+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/ooa1sdu/", "content": "Congrats on your incredible results. Considering you’re only 38 i suggest you keep working for another 10 years. $2,500,000 is great but not enough to last for 50 years if you’re lucky to live until late 80s. Keep working and saving" }, { "id": "t1_ooabt0c", "author": "/u/zach7797", "updated": "2026-05-28T01:17:46+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/ooabt0c/", "content": "I would switch to part time in an instant at my same company or just do a "fun" or low stress job" }, { "id": "t1_ooahhs2", "author": "/u/Cool_Establishment65", "updated": "2026-05-28T01:50:11+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/ooahhs2/", "content": "Questions is, why wouldn’t you?" }, { "id": "t1_ooauzm8", "author": "/u/HamsterNo3795", "updated": "2026-05-28T03:08:51+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/ooauzm8/", "content": "Full send. For what it's worth im planning on quitting far below your funding with 120k a year burn rate." }, { "id": "t1_ooawax0", "author": "/u/Indytennisguy", "updated": "2026-05-28T03:17:02+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/ooawax0/", "content": "Need some gold" }, { "id": "t1_ooawc1m", "author": "/u/g3294", "updated": "2026-05-28T03:17:14+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/ooawc1m/", "content": "I'd stay until 3M and then substitute teach until the kid is out of the house." }, { "id": "t1_ooay8qf", "author": "/u/AppropriateAnt3414", "updated": "2026-05-28T03:29:20+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/ooay8qf/", "content": "I’m retired at 45. Been this way for a few years and I get really bored." }, { "id": "t1_oobmxc1", "author": "/u/Salt_Lie_1857", "updated": "2026-05-28T06:27:48+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oobmxc1/", "content": "Part time chill job and have fun" }, { "id": "t1_oobonx8", "author": "/u/Av8Surf", "updated": "2026-05-28T06:41:54+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oobonx8/", "content": "Yes. I can earn 10% easy on my retirement account per year. Just selling covered calls or cash secured puts on spy aapl nvda or any other mag 7. That would be 240k. The goal is never eat away the principle.\n Health insurance is the only reason I would stay at job." }, { "id": "t1_oobs0kr", "author": "/u/Sweaty-Definition854", "updated": "2026-05-28T07:09:08+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oobs0kr/", "content": "I will become a teacher in a field I love and manage my wealth until 50." }, { "id": "t1_ooc2m35", "author": "/u/ikanoi", "updated": "2026-05-28T08:39:46+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/ooc2m35/", "content": "Stopping investing is considered bad advice in this sub I know 😅 but if it were me I'd google coast fire calculators and get an idea of where you'll be at retirement age if you stopped contributing (from the numbers you mentioned here you're well on track to 3x your fire number at retirement age).\n Then I'd get a less time consuming job that allows you to cover your daily living expenses - which hopefully drop considerably once you take investing out of the budget.\n I'd even consider getting the ball rolling on moving to the city or country or property you plan to retire to, if you're not there already.\n Spend your weekends and now much less stressful evenings writing your game for a few years while your investments grow.\n Set yourself a time limit and reassess if you are still happy with your trajectory (investment growth, lifestyle, career) every 12 months or so." }, { "id": "t1_oocff0e", "author": "/u/county_jail_alumni", "updated": "2026-05-28T10:24:17+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oocff0e/", "content": "I’m the same age and just got laid off thanks to trump, will be broke soon, this makes me wonder how many things you and I have in common, being on completely opposite ends of the financial spectrum. If I made a post like this it would be complete satire because I can’t even imagine a version of myself that is able to do what you’ve done with money. For a relatively small fee I do offer financial advice though, and for a relatively small salary I even have some availability to be a financial mentor. $85,000/yr (under the table, we’re not doing the tax thing anymore and you shouldn’t either, there’s my freebie for ya) I also have no idea how i ended up subscribing to this channel, i think I’m in the wrong place haha.\n In all seriousness, your question is, would I retire if I had saved that much money, and even though I don’t have much ground to stand on in terms of experience, my answer would be no. Not during this administration anyway, financial stability is questionable at best right now, especially if you have money in the stock market. I believe that the AI bubble will pop soon and I don’t know what that’s going to do the stock market, but i imagine it’s not going to be good. And with other countries in NATO having created an organization inside of NATO leaving the US out, we’re becoming more and more useless to the world and we’ll most likely feel the ripple effects of that really soon. I grew up next to someone in the Bay Area who was the 19th employee at Google, he became a billionaire overnight, his son was my best friend growing up, so we still stay in contact somewhat. He took a lot of his money out of the stock market recently and bought a bunch of gold. That’s how unstable things are right now. So regardless of how much money you have, I would feel weary about retiring right this second. I think it’s scary that he did that with his money because I know that he has connections, more than the average person, and whatever he knows spooked him enough to pull money out of the market and literally convert it to gold. The American dollar may not be worth much in the coming years…\n But then again, what do I know.. I have like $400 in the bank and have no idea how I’m going to pay rent in a few days so I’m probably not the one to listen to. I always find a way though, so we’ll see." }, { "id": "t1_oocikf9", "author": "/u/burgetheginger", "updated": "2026-05-28T10:47:09+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oocikf9/", "content": "I’d just work at my pace and not take just any client etc, I wouldn’t go to a beach and do nothing" }, { "id": "t1_oocpuv4", "author": "/u/Nonetoobrightatall", "updated": "2026-05-28T11:35:06+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oocpuv4/", "content": "What the hell are you gonna do all day? Retirement sounds grand until you disconnect. Source: me." }, { "id": "t1_oocy99n", "author": "/u/actually_I_am_human9", "updated": "2026-05-28T12:24:37+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oocy99n/", "content": "don’t you think a lot of information is missing here to make a decision? You don’t have to share of course here, but if you are going to decide based on the information you provided, you may be disappointed. Where do you wanna live, what kind of life you would like to live? Do you want to buy anything? What are your dreams? are you going to work again? Do you want to build their business or do something interesting it requires investment. You could easily retire with half of it or you may need 10 million." }, { "id": "t1_ood1w2g", "author": "/u/Spanish_Jackie", "updated": "2026-05-28T12:44:22+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/ood1w2g/", "content": "I understand you’re burned out (I totally relate), but I wouldn’t do it. You’re doing a fantastic job of saving, but the 4% “rule” is based on a 30-year retirement, not a 50-year retirement. A 3% withdrawal rate will basically require you to live like a pheasant, like you said, and 50 years is a long time to be poor. It also may not be enough to carry you for 50 years at that rate. Plus, there’s a lot more to being retirement ready than just saving money. You will need to eliminate your debts. You also will want to be a bit more conservative in your asset allocation, which will mean lower returns. There’s much more I could say, but I’ll leave it there. Bottom line: I say no. Switch careers and do something that’s not killing you. Develop games in your spare time and find out if you’re any good at it. Reassess in ten years." }, { "id": "t1_ood5t89", "author": "/u/Tall-Drama338", "updated": "2026-05-28T13:04:30+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/ood5t89/", "content": "No." }, { "id": "t1_oodf824", "author": "/u/First_Jellyfish_3449", "updated": "2026-05-28T13:49:54+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oodf824/", "content": "No" }, { "id": "t1_oodfhy1", "author": "/u/lobsterman2112", "updated": "2026-05-28T13:51:11+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oodfhy1/", "content": "I would first figure out what your actual investments are:\n\n- Total Market / Large Cap Index Funds\n- Individual Stocks (large cap?)\n- Bonds\n- Crypto\n- Cash That will give you a better idea if you can follow the 4% rule.\n Also, your retirement accounts are not going to be accessible for decades." }, { "id": "t1_oodl7uz", "author": "/u/Buscando_mi_boo", "updated": "2026-05-28T14:17:36+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oodl7uz/", "content": "Yes. 10000% I'd volunteer or 'work for fun' (the fun seasonal jobs I've always wanted but didn't take because it was irresponsible or whatever, the sort of jobs where you get paid to make people smile). Or I'd just travel, work on side projects, start a business, write" }, { "id": "t1_oodzdgi", "author": "/u/TCB247364", "updated": "2026-05-28T15:20:52+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oodzdgi/", "content": "YES" }, { "id": "t1_ooe2lkp", "author": "/u/SamDogen", "updated": "2026-05-28T15:34:57+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/ooe2lkp/", "content": "Yes! I would retire. I retired at 34 in 2012 and I have no regrets even though I could’ve made a lot more money. Enjoy life! -Sam, Financial Samurai" }, { "id": "t1_ooedewt", "author": "/u/Caudebec39", "updated": "2026-05-28T16:21:52+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/ooedewt/", "content": "No I would not retire.\n I'd work until that figure doubled.\n I only want to retire once. Not pull the trigger too soon." }, { "id": "t1_ooeirx4", "author": "/u/Aggressive-Cow5399", "updated": "2026-05-28T16:45:17+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/ooeirx4/", "content": "100k a year spend is wildly high imo. There’s no reason why you should be spending 100k a year.\n Also, where is your cash flow? Imaginary money going up in a brokerage account is nice and all, but you need cash flow to survive on a day to day basis. How do you plan on generating useable cash flow for daily living and costs?" }, { "id": "t1_oof9lf2", "author": "/u/Such_Indication_4744", "updated": "2026-05-28T18:41:40+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oof9lf2/", "content": "I’m 30 and I have nothing where and how do I get to this level Jesus. Good for you." }, { "id": "t1_oofbjo3", "author": "/u/inakarmacoma", "updated": "2026-05-28T18:50:21+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oofbjo3/", "content": "wow re: 74k in crypto; I know people have a lot more than that, but it would certainly make me nervous... did you directly invest that much or did it grow from a smaller seed?\n also: house, location, property tax, healthcare $" }, { "id": "t1_oofwg3m", "author": "/u/ProfessionalMove7308", "updated": "2026-05-28T20:24:21+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oofwg3m/", "content": "For me it is a resounding yes. You can consider some geographical arbitrage to reduce the spending and have an extra margin. It all depends on the lifestyle you are used to. The most precious thing you'll gain: time. No one will give you time with your family back." }, { "id": "t1_oog7xrj", "author": "/u/Silent-Plant800", "updated": "2026-05-28T21:17:21+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oog7xrj/", "content": "Congratulations 🎉 💯I’d retire!" }, { "id": "t1_oog8xjy", "author": "/u/Ok_Buyer310", "updated": "2026-05-28T21:22:02+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oog8xjy/", "content": "Almost 3-5 maybe 🤔 depends how the portfolio looks" }, { "id": "t1_oog9g5n", "author": "/u/fromfreshtosalt", "updated": "2026-05-28T21:24:31+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oog9g5n/", "content": "I would find some way to still make income or get paid where I do the absolute bare minimum and that is okay." }, { "id": "t1_oogxd0g", "author": "/u/MikesGonePostal", "updated": "2026-05-28T23:28:37+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oogxd0g/", "content": "If you like your job keep working. If you’re ready to retire move it into QQQI and enjoy the rest of your life. 2.4mil of dividends from qqqi should be more than enough" }, { "id": "t1_oohfhak", "author": "/u/Superb_Royal_1275", "updated": "2026-05-29T01:11:02+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oohfhak/", "content": "At that age I would learn a whole lot about health insurance before doing anything" }, { "id": "t1_oohhfjp", "author": "/u/18k_gold", "updated": "2026-05-29T01:22:04+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oohhfjp/", "content": "I retired early 2 years ago. I wrote 1 book, 1 small book and 6 short stories. I've traveled to 12 countries was out of the country for 4 months. I missed home and got bored. I feel useless, so I decided to get a brainless job, something that won't stress me out. I am not sure if this is the right move but I will give it a chance for 2 to 3 months before deciding to stay or not." }, { "id": "t1_oohn8vr", "author": "/u/Imaginary-Yak6784", "updated": "2026-05-29T01:54:46+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oohn8vr/", "content": "If your target spend is $100k then prove it. Get a tracking app (I use Monarch) and live on $7k/month (100k after taxes). Don’t forget to leave some aside for health insurance if you are USA.\n If you can, great. During this experiment you’ll also sock away more savings. If you can’t, see what you can cut. Keep working at it until your expenses come down and/or your savings rise to meet them.\n With such a long runway, I’d suggest 3% instead of 4%" }, { "id": "t1_ooho4tr", "author": "/u/Maximum_Stage4043", "updated": "2026-05-29T01:59:46+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/ooho4tr/", "content": "I would calculate your net worth at age 60 assuming you retire now, work till age 45, 50, 55 and 60. Look at the difference in net worths and then use that as a guide to judge the loss/benefit of retiring at each age. Using an income of 250K and assuming after tax of 180K and assuming a 7% return and 1% increase in wages. The NW at age 60 under each scenario is as follows:It looks like the sweet spot is to retire at age 45. Note this does not include your expenses.\n Age retire yrs worked NW u/age60 38 0 9,937,350 45 7 13,572,734 50 12 15,774,971 55 17 17,425,230 60 22 18,661,861 If you include expenses of 70K per year increasing at 1% you get the values below. Again I think 45 would be the sweet spot to retire. So work 7 more years.\n Age retire yrs worked NW u/age60 38 0 6,544,484 45 7 10,179,869 50 12 12,382,106 55 17 14,032,365 60 22 15,268,995" }, { "id": "t1_ooi8djb", "author": "/u/zenthours", "updated": "2026-05-29T04:02:04+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/ooi8djb/", "content": "You always need double what you think you need. Cruel reality.\n In the wise words of jay-z “If you can’t buy it twice, you can’t afford it”" }, { "id": "t1_ooielwf", "author": "/u/Lumbergh7", "updated": "2026-05-29T04:45:10+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/ooielwf/", "content": "I never understood why people keep so much in cash" }, { "id": "t1_ooikhfv", "author": "", "updated": "2026-05-29T05:28:33+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/ooikhfv/", "content": "[deleted]" }, { "id": "t1_oojwqjz", "author": "/u/DuvishLabs", "updated": "2026-05-29T11:46:54+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oojwqjz/", "content": "Rule 1/Civility - Civility is required of everyone at all times. If someone else is uncivil, then please report them and let the mods handle it without escalation. Please see our rules ( https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/about/rules/ ) and reach out via modmail if you have any questions or concerns." }, { "id": "t1_ooil31m", "author": "/u/Caffeine_AddiKt", "updated": "2026-05-29T05:33:09+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/ooil31m/", "content": "That’s an extremely small amount of money to be retiring on that early, especially married with a kid. All perspective though." }, { "id": "t1_ooissv0", "author": "/u/Nico_Sixx", "updated": "2026-05-29T06:34:09+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/ooissv0/", "content": "Ich denke, wenn man sich die Frage selbst nicht beantworten kann, dann wird's auch nix. Viele lieben es zu träumen und sich irgendwelche Sachen auszurechnen aber das Leben ist nicht so. Manche gehen mit 10k in Rente und leben glücklich irgendwo in Asien andere haben Millionen und fragen sich wann ...." }, { "id": "t1_ooj2e5o", "author": "/u/lotoex1", "updated": "2026-05-29T07:54:27+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/ooj2e5o/", "content": "This might sound insane; quit your job. Get a job working in fast food and work full time for two months and try to survive off of only that. This should do 2 main things for you; First re-evaluate your relationship with money and work. Second would be getting some second hand experience from talking to your co-workers." }, { "id": "t1_oojce8j", "author": "/u/Difficult_Letter_607", "updated": "2026-05-29T09:20:43+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oojce8j/", "content": "I have just put 2M$ in $SPCE Looking forward to incrase my portfolio to 100M$ in this year" }, { "id": "t1_oojij00", "author": "/u/TomorrowIcy2816", "updated": "2026-05-29T10:09:59+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oojij00/", "content": "I would retire only b/c I have a health condition" }, { "id": "t1_oojy64h", "author": "", "updated": "2026-05-29T11:55:25+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oojy64h/", "content": "[deleted]" }, { "id": "t1_ook395z", "author": "/u/TwoSocialist", "updated": "2026-05-29T12:24:19+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/ook395z/", "content": "Not even sure how to do that. I'd assume you need some kind of CPA related cert?" }, { "id": "t1_ookjsh2", "author": "/u/JamedSonnyCrocket", "updated": "2026-05-29T13:48:10+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/ookjsh2/", "content": "You'll definitely want more unless you live extremely frugal. But I'd assume you would pursue other income streams and projects? Retirement is horrible in general. Most retirees who do nothing become alcoholics and die early." }, { "id": "t1_oolkfrn", "author": "/u/GrandConsequence4910", "updated": "2026-05-29T16:31:39+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oolkfrn/", "content": "Nope.. u need to surpass 5mm in order to be comfortable. U're in the middle range where you'll be suffering from taxes and all other noise and expenses. keep working and keep your brain busy, while having fun too! Great job" }, { "id": "t1_oomkq25", "author": "/u/Vicuna00", "updated": "2026-05-29T19:10:43+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oomkq25/", "content": "we have similar numbers but i'm 10 years older than you.\n i'm probably on my last year. looking into a career that'll net me ~$40k @~20 hours per week or so that I can see myself doing for decades.\n i kinda have $3M in my head as my "number". so one year of putting in $100k and some growth (fingers crossed) and i'll be close enough.\n i'm in "one more year" mode because I know I am unlikely to make the kinda $ I'm making ever again...so I want some cushion so I don't HAVE to work.\n does your wife work any? if both of you pulled in even $15-$20k for a few years that'd put you way over the top.\n i'd also ditch your stocks and crypto and put it in index funds. i know it's only 10% or so of your $ but it's still quite a bit of actual $\n i'm gonna actually save up to like $120k in "cash". i'm gonna do $100k in a state municipal fund and $20-$30k in HYSA. that'll get me through at least a 1-2 year downturn with minimal damage if it happens in the next few years.\n no specific advice other than if you can hold on another year or two, you're set for life. if you can do anything to make it somehow not suck so much. but really, you're good to stop now. i think you can make it work.\n is a $120-$150k job you enjoy a possibility? like for 2 years?\n just one more thought: if in a year stocks are down 50%, yeah i'm gonna keep working. and as much as that will suck, it'll suck less than not working and hoping to prove the 4% rule is correct." }, { "id": "t1_oomvyyr", "author": "/u/Perfect-Payment8220", "updated": "2026-05-29T20:02:36+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oomvyyr/", "content": "Retirement isn't just about money. I retired early and did well financially, but the "Covid era" darned nearly killed me. I had nobody to talk to but my cat... I envied people who at least had zoom calls to join for work. Sometimes I'd hang out in Home Depot (one of the few places open during the worst of the Covid closures) just to be around other people for a while. If you're alone in your pajamas trading and building wealth for a few days, great but for the next 40 years? You've got some big problems. People in solitary confinement go crazy you know; it doesn't take that long.\n You could consider having a career of your CHOICE, maybe one with low demands, maybe even a long term volunteer position to have a more reasonable balance. Some people are effectively retired but teach part time. My grandfather worked part time as a crossing guard. He didn't need the money, but he liked having an excuse to walk a few blocks, greet the kids and make sure they got safely across the street, etc. Many people continue working long past the "need" to work because they feel their work is fulfilling, rewarding in other ways, or a service to humanity. I've known doctors who worked into their 90's. Many orchestral conductors likewise do. You've figured out the financial part, now figure out how to have some meaning throughout the rest of your life." }, { "id": "t1_oontl8b", "author": "/u/Butterscotch786", "updated": "2026-05-29T22:50:41+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oontl8b/", "content": "You Da Man...!!! Congrats...At least someone has met his investment goals and is happy...:)\n I an almost 45 and my Pension hit 300k just 2 days ago....lol" }, { "id": "t1_ooo73so", "author": "/u/dilligaf11715", "updated": "2026-05-30T00:06:35+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/ooo73so/", "content": "I had a widow maker heart attack and died 4 times on the job November 2025. I’m 46 years old. No health insurance from my job. My savings has been wiped out. My 401k maybe has 50k. My job is extremely physical. I’m losing at life and have no intelligent guidance. Would anyone be willing to help another man prosper from their knowledge?" }, { "id": "t1_oop4mxp", "author": "/u/Critical_Fun_7562", "updated": "2026-05-30T03:28:10+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oop4mxp/", "content": "I am not sure "250k a year for the past 4 years" comes from trading or passive income.\n I would consider how much "cash" my portfolio generates in a year without any trading. In bear case, you can't get cash flow from trading since every stock you sold for living expense is losing your assets. If you have confidence that you have enough cash flow to survive in a bear market, let's say 1 year, you should FIRE and enjoy your time with family." }, { "id": "t1_oorg4w6", "author": "/u/TwoSocialist", "updated": "2026-05-30T13:51:29+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oorg4w6/", "content": "I'm a software engineer, that's my salary.\n I also had about 50k in capital gains." }, { "id": "t1_oopjfo0", "author": "/u/YeahBuddy5000", "updated": "2026-05-30T05:14:00+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oopjfo0/", "content": "Peak market mania is not an ideal time to pull the trigger. I'd wait to see how you feel when P/E ratios are back to normal and space-social-media companies aren't IPO-ing for 100x revenue." }, { "id": "t1_ooqbv61", "author": "/u/Voooow", "updated": "2026-05-30T09:13:54+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/ooqbv61/", "content": "What ETF’s are you holding?" }, { "id": "t1_oorf8k7", "author": "/u/Neither_Pattern8344", "updated": "2026-05-30T13:46:42+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oorf8k7/", "content": "I would work prob for 1 more year definatly not 5 more years and save hard for your next chapter and live of investments. Insted of quitting i would take a leave of absence for 1 year to start hobby job. If your hobby job doesnt pan out u could go back or chill." }, { "id": "t1_oosx9x6", "author": "/u/ryang516", "updated": "2026-05-30T18:11:49+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oosx9x6/", "content": "No. There is not happy retirement. Always keep going. I’m using sibyl-ai.com and it’s changed my investing with barely ever making a bad move" }, { "id": "t1_oov1iy0", "author": "/u/jrbake", "updated": "2026-05-31T01:06:42+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oov1iy0/", "content": "If your dream is to retire and you actually have a plan for your extreme amount of free time, then yes you’re fine. You have a ton of money. 90% chance of success spending 100k per year, and median final balance after 40 years is $5M." }, { "id": "t1_oovhn5e", "author": "/u/Dry_Faithlessness310", "updated": "2026-05-31T02:44:44+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oovhn5e/", "content": "But it into VT and chill. Keep working but doing a job you actually like. At 58 retire with a conservative estimate of $10,835,116.00\n $2.8 million is a fine number for a 65 year old but $10 million is where you truly can do whatever you want and live a millionare life IMHO." }, { "id": "t1_oowh039", "author": "/u/Grand_Master_Gosh", "updated": "2026-05-31T07:07:54+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/oowh039/", "content": "permission granted. honestly the burnout your feeling is just as real as your portfolio total. i spent years obsessing over those same withdrawal rules until i started diversifying my own assets through rov group to keep things a bit more hands-off. life is too short to keep grinding for a number you already hit, so maybe take a sabbatical first and see if the urge to work even comes back" }, { "id": "t1_ooxvo3b", "author": "/u/Hopeful-Chapter5021", "updated": "2026-05-31T13:35:10+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/ooxvo3b/", "content": "Learn to play the guitar. That will keep you entertained and busy!" }, { "id": "t1_ooy3b26", "author": "/u/Odd-Commercial-1639", "updated": "2026-05-31T14:16:01+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/ooy3b26/", "content": "Yes" }, { "id": "t1_ooyj38w", "author": "/u/Silver-Comment-6176", "updated": "2026-05-31T15:33:56+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/ooyj38w/", "content": "I would honestly say. go somewhere where u feel safe, and the weather is to your liking, buy land, maybe a tiny home, live a simple" below your means" life style.(or not..but justLIVE)..and since you wouldnt be "working" and "you have time" ...do all the "soul searching " you want, on your own time.....\n this world got ADs everywhere on what to buy...but they don't want to look "INWARDS".\n really "heal yourself". change ur diet, Your thinking, maybe get a nutritionist...therapy...drink more water, go walking outside, exercise, laugh more, more time with family/friends, whatever it is and just...live...\n and i think u would find...that time doesnt even exist...and this is how we are SUPPOSE to be..as "PEOPLE"...just be. experience, love be loved.\n love yourself , your family...\n knowing everyday, that the demands that were there, are more...no more "bills" or doing what society says you have to do and be and living how YOU want...\n might stumble on something that you LOVE to do and make it a business...and do it on ur own time when you want to so the pressure is LOW and life is enjoyable....\n or not and just focus on traveling, and good food, and things you ALWAYS wanted to do or experience. when you get tired you rest, when you want to chill n watch a movie u do,..when you want to get dressed up and go and meet new people...u do.\n not tryna rant..and not saying money is EVERYTHING.\n but these SYSTEMS that make up MOST WORKING PEOPLE day to day are trash, and it makes making money to survive...a endless cycle of TRAUMA..they (the people/corporations that be) don't want people to get out of the systems... people are dumbed down everyday, apart of the rat race...that is absolutely emotional, physical, and spiritual ABUSE and TRAUMA, and its manipulative and deceiving.....anyways i love that for u. go be free..\n maybe u can help some others in the process of being/becoming/ free🙂." }, { "id": "t1_op0u3n0", "author": "/u/AvocadoMission6528", "updated": "2026-05-31T22:14:48+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/op0u3n0/", "content": "Yes" }, { "id": "t1_op1pekv", "author": "/u/motleythedog", "updated": "2026-06-01T01:19:39+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/op1pekv/", "content": "A 270th opinion...my advisor thinks 4% is conservative and that you can go with 5%, FWIW. So that puts you well within range.\n If you're nervous though, adjust. I retired making 140k and was terrified because I had a lot less than you (just north of a million) but I was *done* and just needed something different (I work in hospitality now and love it). I really didnt understand how I could survive on lots less, but you just start accounting for every penny and realizing you spend money on some seriously dumb shit. Or at least I did.\n Also bear in mind at your age, you will need to pay out of pocket for health insurance premiums unless you are insured through your spouse. If you pull in too much, your health insurance will be prohibitively expensive. So do the math accordingly.\n Also I have to wonder- how will this play with your family? How old is your kid? That 20k is great if it has 15 years to grow, not so much if it has 5. There is lots to consider outside the strict finances. Will you be just relaxing while your wife works? That could be weird. My husband and I were DINKS and it made it a lot easier. He still works also. It is fine for us because I help him run his business a bit.\n Just things to consider." }, { "id": "t1_op4pb6h", "author": "/u/Strazdas1", "updated": "2026-06-01T14:06:09+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/op4pb6h/", "content": "I would retire on half of that. But then my target spending isnt in the rich class." }, { "id": "t1_op6ozcc", "author": "/u/Chinguz143", "updated": "2026-06-01T19:45:35+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1togwy2/saved_24m_by_38_would_you_retire/op6ozcc/", "content": "You had pretty amazing plan over there. I like how you plan your money and budget. I would suggest you can retire from working for money and Be our own Boss. Think of something you can do with your money so you can produce more money out of it." } ] }, { "source": "r/Fire top month", "id": "t3_1tjqxu9", "title": "Thoughts on generational wealth", "author": "/u/Rogue_Apostle", "updated": "2026-05-21T17:07:42+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/", "content": "I hope this post does not come off as out-of-touch or privileged. That is not my intention. I hope that given the audience in this sub, my thoughts here will be understood.\n My husband and I both grew up in blue collar, paycheck-to-paycheck type families. Our families did not teach us financial literacy because they did not have it themselves. They did encourage us to go to college, with some vague notion that we could have better lives than they did.\n And so we both went to a state school and got bachelor's degrees. We both started out with entry-level jobs earning around $35K in the late 90's.\n We worked hard and got promoted. We learned about savings and investments and retirement vehicles. I distinctly remember having a physical copy of "Investing for Dummies" before the internet was a big thing.\n We lived below our means and we saved and invested, mostly in the market, nothing crazy like day-trading.\n By the time we were in our early 40's, we were each earning over $200K per year. We continued to live below our means but not insanely frugally; we splurged when we wanted to.\n In our late 40's we retired with over $5M in liquid assets.\n Looking at future projections, assuming no major market correction, and assuming we live into our 80's or 90's, we will leave our kids with tens of millions of dollars.\n That is INSANE to me. We have created generational wealth in just one generation. And we did not do it by inventing something or starting a million-dollar company or doing risky investing. We just followed the program: work hard, spend less than you make, invest.\n We did have the foresight to choose lucrative fields, but we always had corporate jobs; nothing that looks fancy from the outside.\n In retrospect, it was just so.....easy? I mean, we did work hard, but I don't feel like we did anything that couldn't be done by most people.\n And yet, most people obviously don't do it. It's just mind-blowing to me that we managed to get to a financial position that most people can only dream of, in only one generation, without making any earth-shattering moves. Like we somehow stumbled upon the cheat code for life, but it wasn't even really hidden to begin with.\n It's crazy to me that FIRE is such a fringe lifestyle.\n submitted by /u/Rogue_Apostle\n [link] [comments]", "contentHtml": "

I hope this post does not come off as out-of-touch or privileged. That is not my intention. I hope that given the audience in this sub, my thoughts here will be understood.

My husband and I both grew up in blue collar, paycheck-to-paycheck type families. Our families did not teach us financial literacy because they did not have it themselves. They did encourage us to go to college, with some vague notion that we could have better lives than they did.

And so we both went to a state school and got bachelor's degrees. We both started out with entry-level jobs earning around $35K in the late 90's.

We worked hard and got promoted. We learned about savings and investments and retirement vehicles. I distinctly remember having a physical copy of "Investing for Dummies" before the internet was a big thing.

We lived below our means and we saved and invested, mostly in the market, nothing crazy like day-trading.

By the time we were in our early 40's, we were each earning over $200K per year. We continued to live below our means but not insanely frugally; we splurged when we wanted to.

In our late 40's we retired with over $5M in liquid assets.

Looking at future projections, assuming no major market correction, and assuming we live into our 80's or 90's, we will leave our kids with tens of millions of dollars.

That is INSANE to me. We have created generational wealth in just one generation. And we did not do it by inventing something or starting a million-dollar company or doing risky investing. We just followed the program: work hard, spend less than you make, invest.

We did have the foresight to choose lucrative fields, but we always had corporate jobs; nothing that looks fancy from the outside.

In retrospect, it was just so.....easy? I mean, we did work hard, but I don't feel like we did anything that couldn't be done by most people.

And yet, most people obviously don't do it. It's just mind-blowing to me that we managed to get to a financial position that most people can only dream of, in only one generation, without making any earth-shattering moves. Like we somehow stumbled upon the cheat code for life, but it wasn't even really hidden to begin with.

It's crazy to me that FIRE is such a fringe lifestyle.

submitted by /u/Rogue_Apostle
[link] [comments]", "comments": [ { "id": "t1_on3b6eh", "author": "/u/saraijs12", "updated": "2026-05-21T17:11:52+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on3b6eh/", "content": "FIRE is fringe because the middle part is extremely difficult. It's hard to spend less than you make when society is built to encourage maximum consumption. Most people spend every dollar as soon as it comes in." }, { "id": "t1_on3edga", "author": "/u/Simple-Emergency3150", "updated": "2026-05-21T17:25:49+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on3edga/", "content": "100% - one of my fav original parables is that (especially in the U.S.) every voice you hear is trying to get you to spend your money, there is only one voice to counter that - your own.\n Many, if not most, people don't even have their voice telling them to be frugal, so they struggle with saving and not keeping up with the joneses" }, { "id": "t1_on3rpwe", "author": "/u/alpacaMyToothbrush", "updated": "2026-05-21T18:25:26+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on3rpwe/", "content": "Many, if not most, people don't even have their voice telling them to be frugal\n Honestly, it kind of makes sense, and us frugal folk might be the weird ones. It is only very recently in human history (1930s!) that humans were able to reliably save and invest without fear of a bank run, strong man, or radical government coming along and confiscating most everything you own.\n If you look at how hunter / gatherer tribes handle surplus, they hold feasts and invite everyone to partake in their hospitality, with the hope that if they fall on hard times, reciprocity will ensure they're taken care of.\n It's understandable that most of the population would be wired this way. Capitalism has simply been able to take advantage of this tendency" }, { "id": "t1_on3vgjg", "author": "/u/TristanaRiggle", "updated": "2026-05-21T18:42:37+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on3vgjg/", "content": "That's also a result of having a fairly stable currency for exchange. A surplus of food will eventually go to waste anyway. And even material goods would hit a limit of trade, if only due to distance. Cars are only about 100 years old and the internet made many more things accessible than was previously true." }, { "id": "t1_on4a32r", "author": "/u/Perennial18", "updated": "2026-05-21T19:50:54+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on4a32r/", "content": "Have we really changed that much from the days of potlatches and redistributive feasts? I wonder if the IRS represents the grand feast hall of America where we pay our taxes in exchange for the stability and protection of property." }, { "id": "t1_on4v3lz", "author": "/u/IHadTacosYesterday", "updated": "2026-05-21T21:31:25+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on4v3lz/", "content": "without fear of a bank run, strong man,\n Strong man is funny to me.\n "ME STRONG MAN.... GIVE ME YOUR MONEY!"\n "STRONG MAN WON'T SMASH"\n "GIVE MONEY OR STRONG MAN WILL SMASH!"" }, { "id": "t1_on4w601", "author": "/u/alpacaMyToothbrush", "updated": "2026-05-21T21:36:53+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on4w601/", "content": "Stalin, Mao, Pol Pot, etc.\n Dress it up in any ideology you want. Throughout time there's always been some warlord with a pointy stick who's rather insistent he deserves half of your harvest." }, { "id": "t1_on4wvog", "author": "/u/IHadTacosYesterday", "updated": "2026-05-21T21:40:32+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on4wvog/", "content": "I thought you were talking about a Genghis Khan type" }, { "id": "t1_on501f3", "author": "/u/alpacaMyToothbrush", "updated": "2026-05-21T21:56:50+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on501f3/", "content": "Sure, he qualifies as well" }, { "id": "t1_on83d4p", "author": "/u/Last_Ad4258", "updated": "2026-05-22T11:02:08+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on83d4p/", "content": "You should still have those fears. Right now your government is actively devaluing your money. I’m skeptical if all the people who plan to have generational wealth actually will. My kids will probably get you don’t have to work money but I’m way more focused on them acquiring money making skills." }, { "id": "t1_on81ezp", "author": "/u/quetucrees", "updated": "2026-05-22T10:48:23+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on81ezp/", "content": "Hunter/gatheres also had the problem that they could not store the surplus so sharing with everyone and getting everyone as fat as possible was a way of ensuring someone would be able to survive the lean times." }, { "id": "t1_on836g0", "author": "/u/echodelta79", "updated": "2026-05-22T11:00:49+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on836g0/", "content": "So much this. I do not know many people that are unable to control their spending habits. If they have money in the bank that's money they can spend. And I am surrounded by firmly Upper middle class people that still complain about almost living paycheck to paycheck. But at the same time getting a new leased BMW every 2 years And paying for unnecessary private schools." }, { "id": "t1_on3gfz7", "author": "/u/Key_Cheetah7982", "updated": "2026-05-21T17:34:54+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on3gfz7/", "content": "Most couples don’t earn $400k+ now, let alone at least a few years ago." }, { "id": "t1_on3m0w3", "author": "", "updated": "2026-05-21T17:59:34+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on3m0w3/", "content": "[deleted]" }, { "id": "t1_on3poxm", "author": "/u/Silly-Safe959", "updated": "2026-05-21T18:16:11+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on3poxm/", "content": "Nah, if you're earning half that you can still get there. You might work a decade or 15 years longer to get there, but it's still possible. Their high earnings near the end (they didn't start there) just means they could exit sooner." }, { "id": "t1_on3s35y", "author": "", "updated": "2026-05-21T18:27:06+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on3s35y/", "content": "[deleted]" }, { "id": "t1_on3tulp", "author": "/u/saraijs12", "updated": "2026-05-21T18:35:13+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on3tulp/", "content": "You're literally on track to be in the same position as OP. They as acouple had 5M in their late 40s, or 2.5M each" }, { "id": "t1_on3urf5", "author": "", "updated": "2026-05-21T18:39:25+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on3urf5/", "content": "[deleted]" }, { "id": "t1_on4x0ad", "author": "/u/Silly-Safe959", "updated": "2026-05-21T21:41:12+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on4x0ad/", "content": "Easier meaning faster? You'll both get to the same point, they'll just FIRE a little earlier is all. That's the point I was trying to make to an earlier poster. Their accomplishment isn't impossible for someone earning less, it will just take a little longer to get there, especially if you're single." }, { "id": "t1_onc7dyq", "author": "/u/Itriednfailed", "updated": "2026-05-22T23:36:14+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/onc7dyq/", "content": "Faster is easier when it comes to FIRE. Cause the whole point is to retire faster. The faster you’re able to retire, the “easier” it must be, no?\n Advantages make goals easier to achieve.\n On another note, I don’t know how people find a job that pays that much for that long… Especially in blue collar fields." }, { "id": "t1_on3trjb", "author": "/u/nickleback_official", "updated": "2026-05-21T18:34:49+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on3trjb/", "content": "Being dual income unlocks huge savings. The taxes alone would make a significant difference on your timeline." }, { "id": "t1_on49758", "author": "/u/Pip-Pipes", "updated": "2026-05-21T19:46:47+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on49758/", "content": "Definitely. There is a lot of risk too. Dicorce is costly. Or you have a spouse poor with money or contribution. Kind of a win big lose big thing." }, { "id": "t1_on4s47c", "author": "/u/InfestedRaynor", "updated": "2026-05-21T21:16:19+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on4s47c/", "content": "Yes, very worrying. I insisted on a pre-nup even though my spouse makes way more money than me. Protection for both of us, more fairness and prevents me from considering being greedy if things went bad later in our relationship." }, { "id": "t1_on55pgf", "author": "/u/hagne", "updated": "2026-05-21T22:27:47+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on55pgf/", "content": "Yep. Someone making $400k can obviously save money 4X faster than someone making $100k. $100k is still well over the household median income for my area (medium-high cost of living)." }, { "id": "t1_on5ealj", "author": "/u/nist7", "updated": "2026-05-21T23:16:25+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on5ealj/", "content": "Dude seriously. This gotta be a troll post. Couple makes 5x the median USA HHI and is a spendthrift and wonders why most ppl can't also have multi millons by their early 50s." }, { "id": "t1_on4en0o", "author": "/u/Jolly-Junket-8442", "updated": "2026-05-21T20:12:01+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on4en0o/", "content": "OPs an idiot." }, { "id": "t1_on45tu8", "author": "/u/SickMon_Fraud", "updated": "2026-05-21T19:30:50+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on45tu8/", "content": "“COrPORaTe JoBS nOthInG fANcY” just $400k/year." }, { "id": "t1_on6g6hr", "author": "/u/noluckatall", "updated": "2026-05-22T03:07:01+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on6g6hr/", "content": "Typical for engineers with 20 years' experience is about $150k. If it's a married couple of two engineers, typical is going to be $300k in their early 40's. No, it doesn't have to be fancy to end up there." }, { "id": "t1_on78j7e", "author": "/u/lotoex1", "updated": "2026-05-22T06:43:14+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on78j7e/", "content": "That is also the top 2% of income earners in the USA. Ya nothing fancy. Except that mathematically 98% can't." }, { "id": "t1_onbgzzb", "author": "/u/SickMon_Fraud", "updated": "2026-05-22T21:09:40+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/onbgzzb/", "content": "This sub is more out of touch than a room full of boomers." }, { "id": "t1_oncfu9x", "author": "/u/episcopa", "updated": "2026-05-23T00:27:24+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/oncfu9x/", "content": "It really is. I used to wonder how the stock market could possibly continue to climb given *waves at everything* and well, now I understand it a bit more.\n Most stocks are owned by a relatively small number of wealthy people.\n And and wealthy people cannot conceive of the idea that something really bad can happen, personally, to them, in a way that can impact them for the rest of their lives, and that they have no control over how, when, or if this could be the case.\n "Why isn't everyone wealthy? Why didn't they just choose for nothing bad to ever happen to them? It's gobsmacking!"" }, { "id": "t1_on874l6", "author": "/u/noluckatall", "updated": "2026-05-22T11:27:38+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on874l6/", "content": "Do you really think 98% "can't" get a mechanical engineering degree or similar and sustain degree-related jobs for 20 years? I realize not everybody can, but this isn't a matter of being brilliant. And the numbers are similar for plumbers and electricians - $150k is definitely reasonable after 20 years. I know two dozen people like this socially, and they're not unusual people.\n I just think far too much is made of the idea that it's impossible. Patience and hard work on a skilled trade is enough." }, { "id": "t1_oncfd6p", "author": "/u/episcopa", "updated": "2026-05-23T00:24:25+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/oncfd6p/", "content": "Have you talked to anyone who was laid off in the 2008 financial crisis? Or during a merger? Or because of corporate mismanagement?\n Have you talked to anyone who has had to leave their degree related job because they got a chronic illness, or had an autistic child that needed round the clock supervision?\n Have you talked to anyone whose house burned down? Or whose ENTIRE TOWN burned down? (Yes! This is something that can and does happen, even in the U.S.!)\n OP has made good choices but they have also been very, very lucky." }, { "id": "t1_onddc5o", "author": "/u/lotoex1", "updated": "2026-05-23T04:00:32+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/onddc5o/", "content": "No because math. It is impossible for more than 2% of the population to be in the top 2% of earners. The same as it's impossible for more than half of the population to be in the bottom 50% (excluding some crazy tie scenario)." }, { "id": "t1_onbhrzb", "author": "/u/SickMon_Fraud", "updated": "2026-05-22T21:13:40+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/onbhrzb/", "content": "You talk to at least 2 dozen people about what they make?" }, { "id": "t1_on3pbmz", "author": "/u/Fpaau2", "updated": "2026-05-21T18:14:30+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on3pbmz/", "content": "True. But a fair number make $200k combined. These folks may not be able to retire at 40 with $5m, but perhaps at 67. Still more than enough for a good life style, aka generational wealth." }, { "id": "t1_on3q837", "author": "/u/Determined420", "updated": "2026-05-21T18:18:37+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on3q837/", "content": "If you’re retiring at 67 with 5 million your retiring too late" }, { "id": "t1_on3s6jw", "author": "/u/Fpaau2", "updated": "2026-05-21T18:27:32+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on3s6jw/", "content": "Some people don’t hate their jobs." }, { "id": "t1_on43qbe", "author": "/u/Determined420", "updated": "2026-05-21T19:20:56+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on43qbe/", "content": "This is the fire sub" }, { "id": "t1_on4inh2", "author": "/u/Sad_Birthday_9805", "updated": "2026-05-21T20:30:45+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on4inh2/", "content": "Not really. It is the stupid-ass health care system in this country that pushes people to continue working despite being wealthy on paper." }, { "id": "t1_on4u0et", "author": "/u/-shrug-", "updated": "2026-05-21T21:25:53+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on4u0et/", "content": "No kidding. I've just realized that my kid is going to need a couple of expensive surgeries over the next 18-ish months, and that I really want to keep my bougie health insurance for that." }, { "id": "t1_on3s6vh", "author": "/u/poop-dolla", "updated": "2026-05-21T18:27:34+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on3s6vh/", "content": "Unless you really like spending $200k+ a year and find the spending somehow more valuable to Han the extra free time you’d have from retiring." }, { "id": "t1_on3tgjn", "author": "/u/nickleback_official", "updated": "2026-05-21T18:33:24+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on3tgjn/", "content": "Plus SS! If you retire at 67 getting full benefit. It would be a full time job spending all that money in your 70s." }, { "id": "t1_on3v36e", "author": "/u/Then-Explanation-778", "updated": "2026-05-21T18:40:56+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on3v36e/", "content": "I don't know. I am close to 1M. I figure I would want $2M to retire if I were single. But I have a wife and 3 kids. So I'm not sure what number I'm willing to stop at." }, { "id": "t1_on3vzbx", "author": "/u/Heffe3737", "updated": "2026-05-21T18:45:01+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on3vzbx/", "content": "We're shooting for $3.3m as our number (family of 4) - which would provide $100k/yr at a 3% SWR. We're currently spending closer to $70-80k per year, but we want to enjoy ourselves more in retirement." }, { "id": "t1_on92sow", "author": "/u/AssCrackBandit13", "updated": "2026-05-22T14:19:40+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on92sow/", "content": "3% is overly conservative imo. Even the 4% rule has been revised by its creator to 4.7%" }, { "id": "t1_on3vsz4", "author": "/u/youngishgeezer", "updated": "2026-05-21T18:44:12+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on3vsz4/", "content": "Not if you want 5 million for generational wealth. Not everyone has the same priorities." }, { "id": "t1_on56uua", "author": "/u/yphraiim", "updated": "2026-05-21T22:34:17+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on56uua/", "content": "How is this not higher up. “I was so frugal!” SMH … you had 300k disposable to invest per year" }, { "id": "t1_on57o4n", "author": "/u/Megalocerus", "updated": "2026-05-21T22:38:54+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on57o4n/", "content": "Half of women qualify for spousal social security benefits, which means that despite the progressive calculation rules for low earners, they earned less than half the benefit of their husbands. Median family income in the US for two or more earners is about $106K\n I'd very much encourage people to save and invest and spend for what they want, including retirement, but it isn't all that easy. Thirty five thousand was a very good starting wage in the early 90s; it isn't that bad now." }, { "id": "t1_on3bphq", "author": "/u/Good_parabola", "updated": "2026-05-21T17:14:13+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on3bphq/", "content": "This is the real answer! I see soooooo many people who make less than my husband & I out there with much much bigger lifestyles. You only have money when you don’t spend it!" }, { "id": "t1_on499ij", "author": "", "updated": "2026-05-21T19:47:06+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on499ij/", "content": "[deleted]" }, { "id": "t1_on4hox8", "author": "/u/Good_parabola", "updated": "2026-05-21T20:26:17+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on4hox8/", "content": "Over here with my $1 thrift store sweater and 15 year old running shoes. It how we don’t be poor!" }, { "id": "t1_on5g59b", "author": "/u/Fun-Rutabaga6357", "updated": "2026-05-21T23:27:04+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on5g59b/", "content": "15 year old running shoes is kinda a weird flex. Do you not run in them? Eventually the soles wear out and it’s bad for your feet, not to mention uncomfortable. Spending the needed amount for new running shoes every year or so isn’t going to make or break most bank accounts." }, { "id": "t1_on4vh59", "author": "/u/IHadTacosYesterday", "updated": "2026-05-21T21:33:21+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on4vh59/", "content": "you guys basically ignored the noise for 20 years and thats the actual superpower\n It's almost as if they..... "DELAYED THEIR GRATIFICATION!"\n What a crazy concept. :)" }, { "id": "t1_on3gtpz", "author": "/u/Zombie-Feynman", "updated": "2026-05-21T17:36:35+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on3gtpz/", "content": "The OP also made over 5x the US median household income (likely more given their numbers/timeline). For most people, non-optional expenses eat so much more." }, { "id": "t1_on3n83d", "author": "/u/deHack", "updated": "2026-05-21T18:04:56+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on3n83d/", "content": "True. On $400K joint income, you can live an upper middle class lifestyle on just one salary and invest the other. It is “easy” if that’s you. That’s not most people." }, { "id": "t1_on3pe1s", "author": "/u/Silly-Safe959", "updated": "2026-05-21T18:14:49+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on3pe1s/", "content": "Yet there are likely more couples that aren't doing that than are saving and investing heavily. And that mentality scales down to the middle class too. We all know average earning couples that are taking a lot of trips, buying $100k trucks and financing boats, etc.\n Yes, higher incomes help make the journey easier but very few are choosing to do it. We make over $300k and save nearly half each year. We have friends in similar professions who have admitted they're barely saving the minimum to get the employer match." }, { "id": "t1_on4p3q4", "author": "/u/Silvatungdevil", "updated": "2026-05-21T21:01:28+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on4p3q4/", "content": "This is correct. Take a drive around your local suburbs and check out the half million dollar houses with the $75-100K cars parked in front. They are on every street." }, { "id": "t1_on70xzc", "author": "/u/KanedaSyndrome", "updated": "2026-05-22T05:41:12+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on70xzc/", "content": "Yeah, let's see how easy it is if you're on 2x 60k income.\n How do you land 200k jobs? Jobs in Denmark max out at 120k-ish for non-director roles. Managers don't make more than 120-130k" }, { "id": "t1_on93u5w", "author": "", "updated": "2026-05-22T14:24:33+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on93u5w/", "content": "[deleted]" }, { "id": "t1_on3wvmc", "author": "/u/Grim-Sleeper", "updated": "2026-05-21T18:49:08+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on3wvmc/", "content": "You are technically correct. But "median US household" is a really misleading way of framing this question.\n If they both earn $200k/yr, they probably live in a HCOL area of the country. That's where you can find these type of jobs. But anyone who hasn't experienced the "H" or "VH" in "COL" has a really hard time grasping just how much more expensive these areas are.\n Referring to the country-wide median glosses over these important details. That's not to say that there aren't advantages to earning higher salaries in more expensive parts, compared to lower salaries in cheaper parts. If you are disciplined with your money, the former is financially much better than the latter.\n But that "if" does a lot of heavy lifting. Many people make $200k+ salaries and find that they live paycheck-to-paycheck because they never sorted out their finances and their associated lifestyle. Kudos to OP for doing the right things" }, { "id": "t1_on4vyb1", "author": "/u/-shrug-", "updated": "2026-05-21T21:35:47+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on4vyb1/", "content": "They live in Des Plaines, outside Chicago. Not exactly HCOL." }, { "id": "t1_on3cfbp", "author": "/u/SuccessfulReturn4103", "updated": "2026-05-21T17:17:21+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on3cfbp/", "content": "So true and the more I’m sucked into fire mindset the more the crazy spending/consumption boggles my mind. My job just gave a $500 stipend to ‘pimp your home office’ and I was truly difficult for me to use cuz I didn’t need/want anything and felt strange spending for no reason." }, { "id": "t1_on3e0t2", "author": "/u/AwesomReno", "updated": "2026-05-21T17:24:18+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on3e0t2/", "content": "What really boggles my mind is I’ve reached a point where working doesn’t beat my asset movements and I still work… lol" }, { "id": "t1_on3ezdm", "author": "/u/idio242", "updated": "2026-05-21T17:28:29+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on3ezdm/", "content": "i got my commission last month - pretty nice - about 4k.\n except my 401k made 40k last month.\n kinda takes the wind out of that sail." }, { "id": "t1_on3o7zb", "author": "/u/yogaballcactus", "updated": "2026-05-21T18:09:29+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on3o7zb/", "content": "I’m getting close to the point where the market will consistently return more than I can contribute. It’s not really taking the wind out of my sails in a negative way. Instead, it’s opening up the freedom to not give a shit whether I’m on track for promotion or even if I get laid off. I don’t have “fuck you” money, but I do have, “thanks for offering the promotion, but I’d rather stay where I am” money. And I’m pretty close to, “being laid off would be fine cause I kinda need a vacation anyway” money." }, { "id": "t1_on3ggbv", "author": "/u/AwesomReno", "updated": "2026-05-21T17:34:57+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on3ggbv/", "content": "Same! I already beat my last month, I invest “safely” now I’m at the point where okay tax advantaged accounts and when is this going on sale?! Cause that will be a new swing" }, { "id": "t1_on3wghu", "author": "/u/np0x", "updated": "2026-05-21T18:47:12+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on3wghu/", "content": "I think the shift in mindset for the years when the swings move more than the contributions I used was that I wanted my money to keep working for me, so if I contributed 2k to savings instead of withdrawing 10k then maybe that was a 12k decision, and my money keeps working,.. then again I’m not sure I could ever coast fire. Full throttle until escape velocity baby!" }, { "id": "t1_on3sf49", "author": "/u/bothtypesoffirefly", "updated": "2026-05-21T18:28:37+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on3sf49/", "content": "I’ve been working on a food drive at work and realized that we paid 2x more in taxes last year than the lowest paid employee at my job made last year. Which means those employees need to get paid more- public sector employees shouldn’t qualify for food stamps. I don’t mind paying the taxes (due to paying for a new vehicle and a house renovation), it’s just a little crazy when you realize the disparity. I don’t think that someone making $25k can save enough even by cutting spending to get out of the hole they started in." }, { "id": "t1_on3galj", "author": "/u/shazkar", "updated": "2026-05-21T17:34:15+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on3galj/", "content": "right now im in it for the bennies" }, { "id": "t1_on3gtlq", "author": "/u/Alternative-Force-54", "updated": "2026-05-21T17:36:34+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on3gtlq/", "content": "Buy it ,submit receipts, then return it for $$$" }, { "id": "t1_on3d6bx", "author": "/u/Genevieve189", "updated": "2026-05-21T17:20:37+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on3d6bx/", "content": "It’s because people are getting paid slave wages. If you make over six figures there’s no excuse though." }, { "id": "t1_on3dpyl", "author": "/u/saraijs12", "updated": "2026-05-21T17:22:59+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on3dpyl/", "content": "I agree. Low wages are part of what makes it extremely difficult. You can't live on less than you make if you make just enough to live." }, { "id": "t1_on3f439", "author": "/u/DntTrd0nMe", "updated": "2026-05-21T17:29:04+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on3f439/", "content": "Part of it is things are insanely expensive now. The other part is social media and constant shiny things in your face. It’s harder to do and gets worse every day." }, { "id": "t1_on3fny2", "author": "/u/saraijs12", "updated": "2026-05-21T17:31:30+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on3fny2/", "content": "Needs are expensive and getting more so, while luxuries get cheaper. TVs and other consumer electronics are much cheaper than in the past while needs like gas food housing and healthcare are more expensive." }, { "id": "t1_on4lejr", "author": "/u/Reign_of_Kronos", "updated": "2026-05-21T20:43:47+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on4lejr/", "content": "Travel costs though have fucking sky rocketed. I remember in 2010s cost of normal hotel like Hampton Inn were $90 something per night. Now it’s easily doubled." }, { "id": "t1_on3ptju", "author": "/u/gurney__halleck", "updated": "2026-05-21T18:16:47+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on3ptju/", "content": "as crazy as it sounds I've found traveling really help me ignore a lot of luxury spending?\n fancy restaurants? gtfoh, I've ate better food on the street in a developing country. your suburban slop doesn't interest me.\n clothes etc? i have curated stuff from craftsmen from all around the world that is not only unique but better quality\n travel to traditional American vacation spots that are expensive? I cringe at the thought.\n fancy car? I've seen ppl live full and joyous lives without so I know it's possible.\n expensive house in a desirable location? after seeing how much of the world lives you realize that slightly run down area isn't that bad and is a perfectly safe place to live.\n etc etc" }, { "id": "t1_on45sxc", "author": "/u/pondelniholka", "updated": "2026-05-21T19:30:43+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on45sxc/", "content": "I lived in Eastern Europe in the late 90's during the transition from Communism to capitalism. After a year it cured me of shopping and accumulating stuff. I met local friends who were stoked to go out to the countryside, hike, play a guitar around a campfire and forage for mushrooms. When I went back to the US to visit I had a storage unit full of clothes, CDs, all kinds of stuff. Got rid of it all and been pretty minimalist in terms of belongings ever since." }, { "id": "t1_on5rja0", "author": "/u/AlwaysWanderOfficial", "updated": "2026-05-22T00:35:17+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on5rja0/", "content": "If it wasn’t social media it was tv. Americans spending is not new. Since the 70s that has been the social contract. People spend instead of saving" }, { "id": "t1_on3d0xm", "author": "/u/TechnicalReserve1967", "updated": "2026-05-21T17:19:58+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on3d0xm/", "content": "This, I am doing my best but I see it in the peo around me (well, most of them) that they indeed spend everything they have, people are often surprised when it comes out that someone have "other income streams" and think they are just lucky or inherited etc.\n They never think that it might be from discipline and investing for a long time." }, { "id": "t1_on3oy89", "author": "/u/gurney__halleck", "updated": "2026-05-21T18:12:48+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on3oy89/", "content": "exactly. I'll be fired in the next few years in my early 40s. But that's the culmination of a plan I set in motion and worked doggedly at nearly 20 years ago." }, { "id": "t1_on3do31", "author": "/u/Silvatungdevil", "updated": "2026-05-21T17:22:45+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on3do31/", "content": "It isn't really all that hard but it does take discipline. Go on over to some of the forums on Reddit that have to do with money and poverty and you will see excuse after excuse as to why poor decisions can be justified with some bullshit sob story." }, { "id": "t1_on3igd4", "author": "/u/null_pointer05", "updated": "2026-05-21T17:43:48+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on3igd4/", "content": "And if you give any actionable advice on how to improve their situation, you get yelled at for making "bootstraps" comments" }, { "id": "t1_on3nkz0", "author": "/u/Any_Resist_9800", "updated": "2026-05-21T18:06:35+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on3nkz0/", "content": "This is also the only reason it works because that consumption fuels the 10-12% annual market growth. If everyone did it, it wouldn’t work anymore." }, { "id": "t1_on3ohhq", "author": "/u/saraijs12", "updated": "2026-05-21T18:10:41+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on3ohhq/", "content": "Everyone could do it, we'd just need to eliminate some other drain from the system, like billionaires. Productivity has nearly doubled since the 70s. If we're making twice as much, we should be able to work half as long, but massive companies are funneling it to the top." }, { "id": "t1_on3sbg0", "author": "/u/alarmed-meerkat", "updated": "2026-05-21T18:28:08+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on3sbg0/", "content": "Someone needs to buy the stuff produced by that increased productivity. There’s no free lunch and I agree that if everyone was frugal the US market would not grow as it does now. Look at European markets that are more frugal and less consumer based. In those scenarios, government jobs generally are more appealing." }, { "id": "t1_on3i7at", "author": "/u/srqfla", "updated": "2026-05-21T17:42:39+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on3i7at/", "content": "Lifestyle creep is deadly" }, { "id": "t1_on3jdx6", "author": "/u/Bryanmsi89", "updated": "2026-05-21T17:47:58+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on3jdx6/", "content": "100% this. The formula of work hard and spend less than you make is not only difficult, its actively scorned now. And it takes TIME. Lots of time. Decades. Most people have a hard time deferring gratifcation for a day, doing it for decades is beyond their grasp.\n Then 20 years go by and suddenly they are complaining about how the system is broken and unfair and they are mad and envious at the person who FIRE'd." }, { "id": "t1_on46h8k", "author": "/u/pondelniholka", "updated": "2026-05-21T19:33:54+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on46h8k/", "content": "I'm only able to Fire because my parents worked their civil service jobs for decades, invested regularly and didn't touch them, and always saved on cars, clothes, groceries etc.\n My dad was able to leave us each over $1 million when he passed after being retired for 20 years." }, { "id": "t1_on3dq7u", "author": "/u/AboutTime99", "updated": "2026-05-21T17:23:01+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on3dq7u/", "content": "Exactly ppl think being frugal is a negative. If someone has a new car they might struggle to afford on loan they assume they are doing well." }, { "id": "t1_on3ds5u", "author": "/u/Venum555", "updated": "2026-05-21T17:23:15+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on3ds5u/", "content": "I recently had a 10 year old car diagnosed with up to 5k in repairs and it took a lot of effort to go through with the repair instead of just look at new 40k cars that would cost me 1k a month for a couple years in payments and insurance premiums." }, { "id": "t1_on3ijvl", "author": "/u/Upper-Shoe-81", "updated": "2026-05-21T17:44:15+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on3ijvl/", "content": "Yep, and it seems to be escalating with the younger generations as "influencers" push people to live a higher lifestyle when they have no means of affording it. That middle part of living frugally is a foreign concept to them (and even a lot of people my own age, late-40's).\n My husband (mid-50's) and I have lived pretty frugally for most of our lives. We've both always had the lower end of income ($40-$60k/year) but have maxed out contributions to IRAs and 401Ks and managed our own funds since our early 20's. House in a MCOL area is almost paid off and we otherwise have zero debt. He's officially retiring the end of this year and I'm about 5 years away from my FIRE number.\n My parents worked well into their 70's (my mother is 79 and still working full time) so just the concept of retiring in my early 50's with enough cash to live comfortably for the rest of our lives is still mindboggling." }, { "id": "t1_on4w9pl", "author": "/u/-shrug-", "updated": "2026-05-21T21:37:24+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on4w9pl/", "content": "So you're right about the same age as OP - perhaps you can explain why not everyone their age just chose six figure jobs?" }, { "id": "t1_on55wui", "author": "/u/Upper-Shoe-81", "updated": "2026-05-21T22:28:55+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on55wui/", "content": "LOL that's definitely where OP is a bit out of touch. I'm sure if we all could have "just done that" we would have!" }, { "id": "t1_on3g972", "author": "/u/jeffreyisham", "updated": "2026-05-21T17:34:05+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on3g972/", "content": "Yup. We are 50 and learned this far too late. I retiring early is just a hope for me. Luckily, we are on track now to be able to retire at 65." }, { "id": "t1_on3ife0", "author": "/u/astuteobservor", "updated": "2026-05-21T17:43:40+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on3ife0/", "content": "To get that first 100k, you either inherited it or save your hard earned monthly salary." }, { "id": "t1_on3mvk2", "author": "/u/Any-Concentrate-1922", "updated": "2026-05-21T18:03:21+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on3mvk2/", "content": "That's it. My parents were more frugal than many people around us. They bought store brand or generic. I never had a new bike-- a lot of stuff came from garage sales. Things like that. I had nearly all hand-me-downs. My parents kept cars and appliances until they cost more to maintain than they were worth. My father had gone to business school and knew how to invest instead of spend, so he did.\n I learned frugality from growing up in that household. (I just got my 30-year-old vacuum cleaner repaired, lol) I learned the value of saving and investing (though I wish my father taught me more about the latter). I am likely to receive an inheritance from my father, though I never take anything for granted. Neither of my parents came from money at all.\n However, not everyone can just be frugal and create wealth, especially since wages aren't keeping up with inflation." }, { "id": "t1_on4335x", "author": "/u/ImprobableGrind", "updated": "2026-05-21T19:17:54+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on4335x/", "content": "The solution to rampant consumerism for me was to automate it all. Every investment comes out before I have a chance to touch any of it. Once it’s wherever it’s going (IRA, SEP, after tax investments, etc) then I don’t bother even looking at it except when I get quarterly mail. Even my credit cards are set to pay the entire statement balance so that I have to consider “do I want this $5000 thing badly enough to take it out of my paycheck in 12 days” far more than I would if payments were manual or minimums." }, { "id": "t1_on3q8sn", "author": "/u/alarmed-meerkat", "updated": "2026-05-21T18:18:43+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on3q8sn/", "content": "On the flip side, as an investor if you want to get the results like OP to build generational wealth just in the stock market, we need a society that maximizes consumption - this is the strength of the American economy (and stock market). No other country has the growth (nor the consumerism) that America has. Look at European markets where their economies are not entirely based on consumption." }, { "id": "t1_on3ue97", "author": "/u/somethinglucky07", "updated": "2026-05-21T18:37:43+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on3ue97/", "content": "Having a household income of 400k in your early 40s is hard too - I think part of that is work, but a good portion of that is luck as well." }, { "id": "t1_on3gl4k", "author": "/u/jazzydat", "updated": "2026-05-21T17:35:32+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on3gl4k/", "content": "Its also hard at end where you're way of spending is engrained and so you don't want to splurge or even know that you can. But yeah much of modern life is overspend and carry debt since taching balancing a budget, saving, and investing is not taught." }, { "id": "t1_on3ni3d", "author": "/u/Fpaau2", "updated": "2026-05-21T18:06:13+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on3ni3d/", "content": "Some spend money they haven’t made yet." }, { "id": "t1_on3vaj9", "author": "/u/youngishgeezer", "updated": "2026-05-21T18:41:52+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on3vaj9/", "content": "Most people spend every dollar as soon as it comes in.\n And many seem to get irrationally angry when they realize you are saving and not spending it all like them." }, { "id": "t1_on49f16", "author": "/u/happyplace516", "updated": "2026-05-21T19:47:48+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on49f16/", "content": "You could even say most spend every dollar coming in plus a little more. I was vetting some tenants yesterday and they made good money. $7k a month in a low cost area. But they had $70k in revolving debt. Half their monthly income goes to pay for past purchases." }, { "id": "t1_on4xmuh", "author": "/u/offpeekydr", "updated": "2026-05-21T21:44:25+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on4xmuh/", "content": "This is so true, I spent a year and a half living in a tent in the desert (many moons ago). Didn't have billboards, ads, TV, cell phones, (limited) Internet. When I came home to the states I lost my mind with the amount of advertising and consumption we are bombarded with every second of every day." }, { "id": "t1_on3cyn3", "author": "/u/EchoValley268", "updated": "2026-05-21T17:19:41+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on3cyn3/", "content": "Both of you making over $200k in your early 40s is not easy. That cannot be done by “most people.”" }, { "id": "t1_on3nxlq", "author": "/u/woahmanthatscool", "updated": "2026-05-21T18:08:09+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on3nxlq/", "content": "I’ve seen dudes grind 15 years in corpo world and never sniff passed 120 so yeah thinking anyone can do it is wild lol" }, { "id": "t1_on47hou", "author": "/u/Capricious_Alabaster", "updated": "2026-05-21T19:38:46+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on47hou/", "content": "That's me. I don't know when the OP was born (sounds like they might have been born mid-late 70's, so they might be about 5 years behind me), but much of OP's experience mirrors mine - grinded my nose hard, high paying careers, but I was no Golden Kid. I took a break from working right about 40 years old, and only was making about $130k (and it was a fairly enviable amount at my peer level). Inflation for the next 5 years wasn't that high, so if I shifted my experience by 5 years, a 40-year old me might have been making $150k.\n So OP must have gotten in with a company with good options/RSUs to bump up Total Compensation or got promoted to director level - which not everyone can achieve." }, { "id": "t1_on5tmn3", "author": "/u/banana_pencil", "updated": "2026-05-22T00:47:38+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on5tmn3/", "content": "The only “corporate” people I know making 200k are my cousins who are corporate lawyers that graduated from Ivy League universities." }, { "id": "t1_on3hev4", "author": "/u/Human-Region4958", "updated": "2026-05-21T17:39:10+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on3hev4/", "content": "Strongly agree, sure some people could choose a more lucrative fields but the reality is $200k for both people in a couple is unrealistic and there are only so many fields that pay that kind of salary." }, { "id": "t1_on4ufhj", "author": "/u/Locke_and_Lloyd", "updated": "2026-05-21T21:28:00+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on4ufhj/", "content": "I'm barely clearing $100k and feel lucky to be there. I have a graduate degree and went to top universities. $200k is highly luck dependant and/or requires you to make work your life priority." }, { "id": "t1_on6pevh", "author": "/u/AssociationFit3009", "updated": "2026-05-22T04:12:10+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on6pevh/", "content": "I have an associates and I made $250k last year. The trade off is I’m expecting to get laid off in Fall and I’ll be lucky to make half that at my next job." }, { "id": "t1_on3hrx8", "author": "/u/blueberryyoshi24", "updated": "2026-05-21T17:40:45+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on3hrx8/", "content": "Agreed. Unless you are purposefully driven by making an as high as possible salary you are extremely unlikely to ever get there + even if that is your goal, it's still very difficult" }, { "id": "t1_on4cd7v", "author": "/u/thefranklin2", "updated": "2026-05-21T20:01:26+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on4cd7v/", "content": "Also, 200k in 2010 is 300k today." }, { "id": "t1_on86jka", "author": "/u/dreamscapesparkle", "updated": "2026-05-22T11:23:46+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on86jka/", "content": "THIS. Honestly probably more" }, { "id": "t1_on421y2", "author": "/u/ghazghaz", "updated": "2026-05-21T19:13:01+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on421y2/", "content": "They also entered the workforce in the 90s and took advantage of way cheaper housing" }, { "id": "t1_on3lv7s", "author": "/u/iamsuchapieceofshit", "updated": "2026-05-21T17:58:52+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on3lv7s/", "content": "Yeah this is the part that got me lol. The trajectory described here is almost identical for my partner and I (except we graduated in late 2010’s) and even though we’ve both managed to increase our incomes over the years, at 30, neither of us has hit 6 figures yet individually. We’re in a MCOL area so early retirement is still possible, but I am not expecting 5m, that’s impressive and doesn’t seem very easy" }, { "id": "t1_on3q7p7", "author": "/u/justUseAnSvm", "updated": "2026-05-21T18:18:34+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on3q7p7/", "content": "This. I see it all the time in tech. I work in big tech and am doing great, but high paying jobs are a path dependent outcome. I can't tell my friends that are programmers "just get a job at big tech and retire in 10 years". They have different work pedigrees, sometimes lack the educational background like CS degrees, or don't want to work for a giant corporation where "the narrative" is both mysteriously vague and concretely impactful on your day to day work.\n Not only that, but there's major talent filters that OP is just not seeing. Getting that first job, doing well enough to get promoted, being able to figure things out when the job's not going well: all of these knock people out of high income careers, and they don't always come back.\n It always looks easy in hindsight, when you only experience one path your career could have gone down, but it's definitely not "easy" in the sense that a long high paying career requires a significant period of training, and at least a couple resets and pivots." }, { "id": "t1_on3imp9", "author": "/u/SaucyCouch", "updated": "2026-05-21T17:44:36+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on3imp9/", "content": "But it can be, you just have to work in either the medical field, law, accounting, or finance.\n They’re all jobs that suck, but after 15 years experience you’ll be at 200k or much higher.\n And it really doesn’t take much to become an accountant" }, { "id": "t1_on3jxoe", "author": "/u/Acrobatic-Jaguar-134", "updated": "2026-05-21T17:50:23+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on3jxoe/", "content": "That is true for an individual. But for both people in a marriage? There is luck in finding your partner in those fields as well. *And* they’re frugal. *And* no one has to leave the workforce due to illness themselves or in the family.\n Also most accountants don’t make 200k+, not even in the senior manager role. Same with lawyers." }, { "id": "t1_on3kx99", "author": "/u/Ol_Man_J", "updated": "2026-05-21T17:54:43+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on3kx99/", "content": "And still making 200k after having kids. Nobody took a hit on future earnings by leaving the workforce for childcare" }, { "id": "t1_on3kqb1", "author": "/u/ElJacinto", "updated": "2026-05-21T17:53:53+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on3kqb1/", "content": "And it really doesn’t take much to become an accountant\n Hey... jk\n It is a pretty easy profession to get into, but I don't think anyone is going to make $200k unless they are both dedicated and good at it. I've been out of college for eight years now and currently make a good amount (not $200k) as a controller. I'd have to be the CFO to make that kind of money." }, { "id": "t1_on3srcp", "author": "/u/papalouie27", "updated": "2026-05-21T18:30:11+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on3srcp/", "content": "Yeah it varies. I'm (CPA) 9 years out of university and make $200k+. My wife (CPA) is on the same timeline and makes ~$120k. All dependent on the position and opportunities." }, { "id": "t1_on3li40", "author": "/u/kcGirl_of_the_year", "updated": "2026-05-21T17:57:15+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on3li40/", "content": "Exactly! I chose to quit my job in my last 30s to raise my child. I haven’t worked since. I was on the corporate track to make very good money to be a VP, but now we rely solely on my husband’s salary. So, yeah, it prolonged our fire goal by about 5-10 years, but definitely worth it." }, { "id": "t1_on54h4o", "author": "/u/throwhelp2024", "updated": "2026-05-21T22:20:54+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on54h4o/", "content": "Thank you… I’m surprised the top answer is just about spending habits. Good spending habits makes a huge diff to get you to FIRE. But generational wealth and FIRE just by spending less? What is this out of touch post." }, { "id": "t1_on4xafd", "author": "/u/Helen-Killer", "updated": "2026-05-21T21:42:38+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on4xafd/", "content": "It can be done by every AI script. What do you mean?" }, { "id": "t1_on3biz9", "author": "/u/alphawolf29", "updated": "2026-05-21T17:13:26+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on3biz9/", "content": "too bad entry level jobs still pay 35k lmao. 200k individual income 400k household income is pretty close to top 1%" }, { "id": "t1_on3cgmy", "author": "/u/Feelinglikeatamale", "updated": "2026-05-21T17:17:31+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on3cgmy/", "content": "I was literally going to type this. My entry level job was 35k in 2012… pretty sure it still is 😂" }, { "id": "t1_on3dkb6", "author": "/u/OkPrimary4", "updated": "2026-05-21T17:22:19+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on3dkb6/", "content": "Yep mine was 35k in 2014 lol" }, { "id": "t1_on3e5em", "author": "/u/yiggity_yag", "updated": "2026-05-21T17:24:51+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on3e5em/", "content": "Yeah I made $45k my first year full time in 2015. Worked up to $65k by 2022. Started job hopping and now I’m up to $130k.\n It’s less of a jump from $35k to $400k, but I fail to see a path to going much higher for my role without getting into management and no longer doing IC work." }, { "id": "t1_on3mg2x", "author": "/u/kcGirl_of_the_year", "updated": "2026-05-21T18:01:26+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on3mg2x/", "content": "35k in the late 90s was good money. I should know, my starting salary in 2000, was 25k." }, { "id": "t1_on3knjq", "author": "/u/Toasted_Potooooooo", "updated": "2026-05-21T17:53:32+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on3knjq/", "content": "It is! Entry level job for me out of college in 2021 was 40k. I felt rich 🙂" }, { "id": "t1_on3f38b", "author": "/u/Slice_0f_Life", "updated": "2026-05-21T17:28:58+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on3f38b/", "content": "People don't like to credit the element of luck. It feels better to pretend your own choices or control were behind the output." }, { "id": "t1_on3lctc", "author": "/u/Reign_of_Kronos", "updated": "2026-05-21T17:56:37+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on3lctc/", "content": "The biggest luck being born in the right country." }, { "id": "t1_on3pz9b", "author": "", "updated": "2026-05-21T18:17:30+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on3pz9b/", "content": "[deleted]" }, { "id": "t1_on3gv67", "author": "/u/smithnugget", "updated": "2026-05-21T17:36:46+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on3gv67/", "content": "Unless the output is bad in which case it flips" }, { "id": "t1_on44jnl", "author": "/u/ZazHockey", "updated": "2026-05-21T19:24:49+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on44jnl/", "content": "Similarly, people like to blame that they are just unlucky. That feels better than accepting you can’t make it" }, { "id": "t1_on4ybec", "author": "/u/-shrug-", "updated": "2026-05-21T21:47:56+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on4ybec/", "content": "Why can't you call it bad luck to be born with average talents and intelligence? I've never understood why people think it's somehow not luck when they tell a story about how they just used enough willpower and focus to study hard and become the only student from their failing 3000-kid high school to ever go to college. They think every kid just got a button that says "use willpower" and the other 2999 didn't press it?" }, { "id": "t1_on3ugj1", "author": "/u/nickleback_official", "updated": "2026-05-21T18:38:01+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on3ugj1/", "content": "Luck is when preparation meets opportunity. Lazy folks don’t get lucky like that." }, { "id": "t1_on3wrkp", "author": "/u/CatAteMyBread", "updated": "2026-05-21T18:48:37+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on3wrkp/", "content": "Correct, but many people don't have the same opportunity afforded to them as the "lucky" people do.\n In this sub I think we all agree that at the end of the day you need to work hard for your goals, but I think it's also fair to acknowledge that those who were able to secure 200k/year roles were not just working twice as hard before/working twice as hard now as people making 100k/year - they were still afforded an opportunity many people won't have access to." }, { "id": "t1_on3xf2o", "author": "/u/Slice_0f_Life", "updated": "2026-05-21T18:51:35+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on3xf2o/", "content": "Luck is an ingredient in a recipe for success. Sometimes there is a lot more of it than hard work or intelligence.\n Tons of people work hard and are very smart, but have bad luck.\n Preparation and opportunity are their own ingredients. Luck is not in your control." }, { "id": "t1_on4juzi", "author": "/u/gandolfthe", "updated": "2026-05-21T20:36:27+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on4juzi/", "content": "And glossed over how rough 2008-2009 was for educated professionals with experience. Job markets vaporized overnight and it was just luck for those that still had a job" }, { "id": "t1_on3ekd8", "author": "/u/Levitlame", "updated": "2026-05-21T17:26:40+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on3ekd8/", "content": "Also - while blue collar paycheck to paycheck isn’t a good way to live for parents - It sounds like they gave them the environment and opportunity to thrive. Thats less common than people here seem to think." }, { "id": "t1_on3o9av", "author": "/u/Any-Concentrate-1922", "updated": "2026-05-21T18:09:38+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on3o9av/", "content": "My first salaried job paid $18K in 1998. My first job in my field paid $28K in 2000. That's $54K now. I can't believe when I hear people still make $35K. I was able to save by being extremely frugal and because I didn't have kids and I had a roommate. There is no way someone making $35K or even $50K could save a lot, unless maybe in a VLCOL area." }, { "id": "t1_on3m2lh", "author": "/u/Icy-Banana-3291", "updated": "2026-05-21T17:59:47+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on3m2lh/", "content": "Top 2-3% more likely. The numbers get really skewed towards the top." }, { "id": "t1_onb0sj2", "author": "/u/episcopa", "updated": "2026-05-22T19:48:45+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/onb0sj2/", "content": "I just saw two job postings in my field that each require two years experience and a college degree and pay $50,000. The job OP describes still exists and still pays $35,000." }, { "id": "t1_on3dqig", "author": "/u/TheFurryMenace", "updated": "2026-05-21T17:23:03+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on3dqig/", "content": "I mean, the odds of two people who are in the 3% of Americans who make 200k getting together and getting married is incredibly low.\n Two high earners can put away huge amounts of money and ride the wave of compound interest to an enormous net worth\n But the median income is 20ish percent of that income. So fringe is understandable" }, { "id": "t1_on3m6cz", "author": "/u/kcGirl_of_the_year", "updated": "2026-05-21T18:00:14+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on3m6cz/", "content": "Yes! I hate when people get on here and praise themselves for saving, yet they’re making way more money than the average person. Of course it’s easier to save when you have that much excess. Op, give me a break! 🙄" }, { "id": "t1_on3xaja", "author": "/u/immrsclean", "updated": "2026-05-21T18:51:00+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on3xaja/", "content": "I think I would be GREAT at saving if my household income was 400k!" }, { "id": "t1_on4l860", "author": "/u/Fishb20", "updated": "2026-05-21T20:42:57+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on4l860/", "content": "saw someone on here bragging once about how they fought consumerism by going on 3 or 4 vacations domestically a year and only doing japan trips every two or three years lol" }, { "id": "t1_on4yc8b", "author": "/u/Hasz", "updated": "2026-05-21T21:48:03+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on4yc8b/", "content": "It is not completely independent that someone who can get to a top % percentage income can get to a top % percentage savings rate. Not 1:1 obviously, but not uncorrelated either." }, { "id": "t1_on4w7fy", "author": "/u/Ok-Lingonberry7143", "updated": "2026-05-21T21:37:05+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on4w7fy/", "content": "You act like they got those jobs just by random chance like it was genetics" }, { "id": "t1_on8uzpx", "author": "/u/FanZealousideal1511", "updated": "2026-05-22T13:41:43+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on8uzpx/", "content": "I think people naturally meet partners in the same social circles, so earnings prospects are also similar for both." }, { "id": "t1_on43z5l", "author": "/u/B4K5c7N", "updated": "2026-05-21T19:22:05+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on43z5l/", "content": "Also, they were probably able to buy stocks like Apple that split adjusted was like under a $1 back in the 90s." }, { "id": "t1_on3f6c9", "author": "/u/Pegasorcerer", "updated": "2026-05-21T17:29:20+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on3f6c9/", "content": "Ikr it’s easy just make 200k (like a top 3% income) and then marry someone also making 200k. Everyone not doing this must be dumb or something." }, { "id": "t1_on42z26", "author": "/u/stellularmoon2", "updated": "2026-05-21T19:17:21+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on42z26/", "content": "Totes stoopid" }, { "id": "t1_on7ywvy", "author": "/u/Ikornad", "updated": "2026-05-22T10:29:40+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on7ywvy/", "content": "add to that two massive bull runs during post dot com bubble and post GFC recovery with each over 400% gains." }, { "id": "t1_on8jlgk", "author": "/u/DiscoStu0000", "updated": "2026-05-22T12:42:13+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on8jlgk/", "content": "After being separated, I'm back on the dating scene. Just updated my bumble profile - looking for female, must make an easy 200k or more. This is so easy. Cheat code unlocked." }, { "id": "t1_on3c0z0", "author": "/u/NotSoLiquidAustrian", "updated": "2026-05-21T17:15:37+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on3c0z0/", "content": "And yet, most people obviously don't do it.\n doesn't want to come off as out of touch, doesn't realise how out of touch they are with this statement.\n most people obviously can't do it. you lived frugally while earning exceptionally well." }, { "id": "t1_on3exnl", "author": "/u/BUR6S", "updated": "2026-05-21T17:28:17+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on3exnl/", "content": "For real. Their entry level job at $35,000/yr in the 90s is comparable to $65-70k today. My entry level job in 2020 (30 years later) I was earning $32k.\n It’s an entirely different situation today than it was back then. Half the buying power, AND everything is approximately 2.1x the price. It’s complete insanity." }, { "id": "t1_on3ip3q", "author": "/u/Nvr_Smile", "updated": "2026-05-21T17:44:54+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on3ip3q/", "content": "35k in Jan 2000 is the equivalent of 69k today. The median income of an individual in the US today is 62.6k. OP’s entry level job paid more than the median person gets paid today. And that’s ignoring the fact that OP’s HHI is/was ~5x the current median HHI.\n It’s easy to save a lot of money when you’ve always made a lot of money and were saving during a decade plus long bull run." }, { "id": "t1_on4qhz2", "author": "/u/Wild_Stretch_3947", "updated": "2026-05-21T21:08:20+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on4qhz2/", "content": "Yea I'm surprised I'm not seeing people talk about the absolutely incredible returns between the 90s and now. I'm sure that played a big role." }, { "id": "t1_on3fob7", "author": "/u/nonameforme123", "updated": "2026-05-21T17:31:32+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on3fob7/", "content": "Also competition was probably much lower back then." }, { "id": "t1_on3gms1", "author": "/u/QuesoMeHungry", "updated": "2026-05-21T17:35:43+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on3gms1/", "content": "You didn’t have to compete with the world, less mega corps, you could move at a slower pace because technology wasn’t all there yet. It was really a power combo." }, { "id": "t1_on3kh7l", "author": "/u/Acrobatic-Jaguar-134", "updated": "2026-05-21T17:52:46+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on3kh7l/", "content": "Yea I literally think about how being born in the 70’s and starting your career in the 90’s is life on super easy mode." }, { "id": "t1_on43a3z", "author": "/u/bklyninhouse", "updated": "2026-05-21T19:18:48+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on43a3z/", "content": "Life does some easier except we had some pretty bad recessions from early 1990s through 2007--high rates of unemployment, imploding oil industry, mortgage crisis. 1990/91 was the Gulf War recession, 2001/2002 the dot com recession, and then the great recession of 2007-2009. Things were baaaaaad and I managed to graduate right when one of them was happening. I went on to graduate school, but many of my friends did not find jobs in their field for years after graduating. That means student debt but no income to pay them off and delaying any goals like owning a home" }, { "id": "t1_on3guw8", "author": "/u/Key_Cheetah7982", "updated": "2026-05-21T17:36:43+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on3guw8/", "content": "70k is barely under the median household income today" }, { "id": "t1_on3h53x", "author": "/u/BUR6S", "updated": "2026-05-21T17:37:58+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on3h53x/", "content": "Correct, but it’s sure as shit way higher than average entry level income today. OP had nearly double the buying power when they were entry level in the 90s than entry level workers do today in 2026." }, { "id": "t1_on3fmr1", "author": "/u/Right_Morning7856", "updated": "2026-05-21T17:31:21+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on3fmr1/", "content": "Yes, sometimes it’s like people forget that they didn’t just create their circumstances out of thin air. So many people are striving to earn enough money to live okay in a stable way, I’m sure a lot of people would be able to save that much if they had a 400k income in an economically prosperous era lol" }, { "id": "t1_on3mm7f", "author": "/u/yogaballcactus", "updated": "2026-05-21T18:02:11+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on3mm7f/", "content": "I think the number of people who could create generational wealth is higher than you think. It doesn’t take a crazy amount of money, it just takes making a bit more than the average person while living how the average person lives and saving the difference. A 15% savings rate creates a pretty big nest egg over a 40 year career, even at much more normal levels of income. Like yeah your barista isn’t doing this, but your average office drone can leave a huge inheritance by just following the bog standard advice of “save 15% and keep a budget.”" }, { "id": "t1_on3c037", "author": "/u/lsp2005", "updated": "2026-05-21T17:15:30+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on3c037/", "content": "Have you explained how to preserve and grow wealth to your children? Have you had a family values discussion? What have you done to ensure the money lasts beyond your kids? It is really great that you were able to save and invest." }, { "id": "t1_on3vz64", "author": "/u/alpacaMyToothbrush", "updated": "2026-05-21T18:45:00+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on3vz64/", "content": "It always turns my stomach a little when I see FIRE folks basically plan to make their children 'trust fund kids'\n Things I fully subscribe to:\n\n- Paying for education\n- Helping pay for essentials needed to actually live (food, utilities, helping with rent, health costs, etc) Things I'm a 'maybe' on:\n\n- Giving them enough to 'make' a median salary if they chose a low paying career that benefits society (social worker, teacher, etc)\n- Helping out with a down payment to a house or basic transportation The absolutely not's:\n\n- Giving them so much that they'll never need to work or contribute to society\n- Buying them a house / car etc outright\n- Giving them a job at your company or otherwise pulling strings out of sheer nepotism I cannot think of a more effective way to ruin a kid." }, { "id": "t1_on4c65n", "author": "/u/Islandcrafter", "updated": "2026-05-21T20:00:31+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on4c65n/", "content": "Just out of curiosity, your absolute no on giving your kids a job at your company- why? There are many families that have children as successors. Is it that you wouldn't give a younger adult that chance vs if they were older and were ready to take on your business and get out of the rat race?" }, { "id": "t1_on4tq56", "author": "/u/alpacaMyToothbrush", "updated": "2026-05-21T21:24:26+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on4tq56/", "content": "Yeah, if they'd proven themselves at similar positions at other companies, sure they could apply. I would not put my thumb on the scale though. My father's workplace was ran into the ground by an entitled little shit. I think it's better for everyone if the most competent person runs a company, regardless of whether they have my blood or not." }, { "id": "t1_on4r2zy", "author": "/u/UnlikelyTourist9637", "updated": "2026-05-21T21:11:12+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on4r2zy/", "content": "Once a kid gets through college - their approach to life is already set. I've known plenty of people through the years whose parents helped the kids get their first car. As long as it's a "cheap car" I haven't seen it impact their personality.\n My parents loaned me money to buy my first house. That's not a big issue either.\n The bigger issue in my opinion are the kids who are trust fund kids growing up." }, { "id": "t1_on5nddg", "author": "/u/TheBeckofKevin", "updated": "2026-05-22T00:10:09+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on5nddg/", "content": "I think its all the stuff that happens before college age that makes a big part of it.\n If you're taught to be frugal, understand what it means to work for minimum wage, learn that you have to try hard at things and pursue things with serious initiative, etc. It probably doesn't suddenly derail things when you help them with something at 25.\n The main thing is learning how much money is worth. If you are showered with expensive lifestyle things, you assume money has no worth because high cost things are everywhere. If you have to mow lawns for $20 all summer, you will never want to splurge on something that costs $2000. Your ability to impulse buy will be permanently altered.\n I spent my childhood being told no to everything in the store to the point of no longer asking for anything. Now when I'm at a checkout and I throw a candy bar on the conveyor I feel like I'm really sneaking a special present for myself. Its all mindset." }, { "id": "t1_on6cxaw", "author": "/u/2-59project", "updated": "2026-05-22T02:45:45+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on6cxaw/", "content": "My parents gave me several of the maybes or absolute no’s in your list and it gave me such a head start on building a successful career/life. Entering the workforce with no debt/no need to take on debt is such a blessing and I could not disagree more that it “is the most effective way to ruin a kid”. What’s even the point of wealth if not to share it with the people in your life who could benefit from it the most" }, { "id": "t1_on6hvkp", "author": "/u/alpacaMyToothbrush", "updated": "2026-05-22T03:18:29+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on6hvkp/", "content": "I mean, that's fine, I'm just going off my first hand experiences with a few 'trust fund kids' that were absolute wastes of oxygen. I think the worst thing you can do for someone is to rob them of all adversity." }, { "id": "t1_on4momv", "author": "/u/neiluj", "updated": "2026-05-21T20:49:53+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on4momv/", "content": "100% agree with all points except the last. It's hard enough for fresh grads to get a job let alone even an interview in this economy.\n 'Winning' requires an asymmetrical advantage. Whether that advantage is fair or not is frankly irrelevant. Boil it down even further and you realize this is just 'leveraging your network' which is commonplace and generally not frowned upon." }, { "id": "t1_on5qsdl", "author": "/u/bebe_bird", "updated": "2026-05-22T00:30:47+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on5qsdl/", "content": "Your absolute not is outright buying a car?\n My parents instilled good financial values in their children, including me, and were on the FIRE path before it was a movement (my dad "retired" and went to get his PhD at 55 because he was interested in it and wanted the healthcare benefits)\n They had promised to help with college - up to the price of an in-state public university (~$10k/year). If we chose something more expensive after scholarships, we would be taking out loans. None of us actually needed it due to scholarships so they changed their minds and decided to purchase a basic car outright as a higher education graduation present (mine was a Prius V at $28k out the door) with the statement "you need something reliable to get to your first job". It also instilled the value of buying outright instead of having a car loan at 6% or whatever (granted, if the loan was 0-1.9%, I know I'd at least consider the loan...)\n Just curious why that's on the "not" list instead of the "maybe" list - if it's a reasonable car and intended to set you up for success instead of trying to keep one paycheck ahead of the next maintenance bill.\n I do agree with you on not giving them enough that they never wind up contributing to society, and I agree with avoiding outright nepotism (although there's a fine line between networking via your parents and your parents hiring you for a position at their company outright)\n Just curious to hear your thought process!" }, { "id": "t1_on6a3nw", "author": "/u/alpacaMyToothbrush", "updated": "2026-05-22T02:28:03+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on6a3nw/", "content": "Mmm, if my kid got a full ride scholarship, yeah, I'd buy'em a car, but I'd prefer to help them get a masters or phd in their field of choice if further specialization helped.\n Hell, my parents gave me the title to my old ford ranger when I graduated college cause they basically didn't pay for anything. I don't really see any problem getting them a reliable used vehicle." }, { "id": "t1_on3gxrm", "author": "/u/Successful-Try-8506", "updated": "2026-05-21T17:37:05+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on3gxrm/", "content": "Parents who want to set their children on the right path may want to read this guy:\n https://www.cmgwealth.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/11/Rich-Man-Poor-Man-Richard-Russell-Nov-2015.pdf" }, { "id": "t1_on3bs3g", "author": "/u/Dunnowhathatis", "updated": "2026-05-21T17:14:32+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on3bs3g/", "content": "Yes. But not sure what you want with your post. Are you asking how to secure money for your future generations? Or just commenting that you are doing well and your kids even better thanks to you?" }, { "id": "t1_on3hh41", "author": "/u/RustyEdsel", "updated": "2026-05-21T17:39:27+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on3hh41/", "content": "As this sub approaches 1 million members posts like this have become more common. It's entirely vanity that doesn't offer anything new or insightful. Makes you wonder if it's just a creative writing assignment." }, { "id": "t1_on3jg31", "author": "/u/BUR6S", "updated": "2026-05-21T17:48:14+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on3jg31/", "content": "Meanwhile, I and many others feel like they’re just getting started and are genuinely looking for advice. Vanity posts like this are kind of exhausting to sift through." }, { "id": "t1_on3pcv3", "author": "/u/yogaballcactus", "updated": "2026-05-21T18:14:40+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on3pcv3/", "content": "This subreddit is kinda weird cause you don’t really need advice. “Invest way more than the average person so you can retire earlier” isn’t that complicated of a concept.\n I see these types of posts as more encouragement than vanity. If you work hard then you can get there too. Maybe you can’t get quite as much wealth as OP since they seem to be a very high earner, but the math works just as well on something much closer to a normal income. I firmly believe that most people who make decent (but not necessarily incredible) money can invest enough to move their retirement date up meaningfully." }, { "id": "t1_on3tsh3", "author": "/u/Fpaau2", "updated": "2026-05-21T18:34:56+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on3tsh3/", "content": "Or if not move retirement date up, retire at 67 comfortably." }, { "id": "t1_on3oqpb", "author": "/u/Global-Square-6968", "updated": "2026-05-21T18:11:51+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on3oqpb/", "content": "I find this post to be a bit overconfident. $5M is certainly impressive but the returns OP is assuming is quite naive and assuming no derisking into retirement and going all in to the market. Also, they didn’t mention how many kids but even having 2 kids let alone 3 completely negates the chances of generational wealth." }, { "id": "t1_on3qn2h", "author": "/u/Excellent_Owl_1731", "updated": "2026-05-21T18:20:31+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on3qn2h/", "content": "Agree. Plus so many future expenses are unknown. College, post-grad, average home price for the area, costs for senior care, unexpected medical events, estate tax laws, etc.\n But I also lean extremely conservative with my FIRE approach after seeing so many others in my life burned by it." }, { "id": "t1_on6ioag", "author": "/u/esbforever", "updated": "2026-05-22T03:24:02+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on6ioag/", "content": "OP is definitely using (probably inadvertently) future dollars, not today’s dollars. They are in for a rude awakening when their 5M does not turn them into a tycoon in 30 years." }, { "id": "t1_on3jnud", "author": "/u/CuriousCat511", "updated": "2026-05-21T17:49:11+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on3jnud/", "content": "IMO, the more important discussion is "should we be leaving our kids 10's of millions?"\n I think there's a huge difference between helping your kids succeed and giving them more money than they will know what to do with and had no part in earning.\n It's like winning the lottery, except you know in advance that the winning ticket is coming. That messes with people's heads." }, { "id": "t1_on40zor", "author": "/u/DigmonsDrill", "updated": "2026-05-21T19:08:02+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on40zor/", "content": "This is the kind of money that can absolutely destroy a child. Even knowing of its existence can undo them.\n Get a career, learn the value of money, don't blow it all." }, { "id": "t1_on4izjn", "author": "/u/Square-Turnip-6558", "updated": "2026-05-21T20:32:20+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on4izjn/", "content": "My mom spent her whole life banking on her inheritance. Even as a kid I thought it was bizarre. Now that grandma cannot do her own finances and my aunt took over, aunt informed us that while they were millionaires back in the 70s, all of that money was in a regular bank account. It has earned effectively zero interest this whole time. Not much is going to be left." }, { "id": "t1_on4n453", "author": "/u/DigmonsDrill", "updated": "2026-05-21T20:51:55+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on4n453/", "content": "Now that grandma cannot do her own finances and my aunt took over, aunt informed us that while they were millionaires back in the 70s, all of that money was in a regular bank account.\n One-sentence horror story." }, { "id": "t1_on4ok2k", "author": "/u/Square-Turnip-6558", "updated": "2026-05-21T20:58:51+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on4ok2k/", "content": "Yeah. Idk how that happened. Grandpa was an econ major and a partner at a large insurance company. He knew about investing." }, { "id": "t1_on3j2kc", "author": "/u/vulkoriscoming", "updated": "2026-05-21T17:46:34+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on3j2kc/", "content": "They are just expressing surprise it is possible and not even "that hard". I feel the same way to a certain degree." }, { "id": "t1_on3th79", "author": "/u/reddituser889088", "updated": "2026-05-21T18:33:29+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on3th79/", "content": "The OP is slightly underestimating how privileged they are bc while it seems attainable to them, it isn’t for many, BUT the point isn’t how much. They said tens of millions and people are getting triggered. They’re just saying that by basically saving, not taking crazy debt and living below their means, and investing they have afforded their kids/bloodline a privilege they couldn’t have imagined as kids. For some people that’s 10k for others it’s a mansion in Beverly Hills but it’s different for everyone" }, { "id": "t1_on3yy60", "author": "/u/vulkoriscoming", "updated": "2026-05-21T18:58:34+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on3yy60/", "content": "I think the 10-20 million is a bit optimistic. But they will likely leave their kids 5 million give or take. This would be life changing if it came early in their lives. In reality, it is likely to come when their kids are in their 50s so the kids will have a more comfortable retirement.\n This is the realization I have reached. I will need my money until I die. It will then go to my kids. But by then (hopefully) they will be 50+, their kids will be out of college, and it will actually not make much difference in their lives other than to allow an early retirement or a nicer retirement." }, { "id": "t1_on3bjd0", "author": "/u/Necessary-Music-6685", "updated": "2026-05-21T17:13:29+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on3bjd0/", "content": "It’s not insane, but it is extremely lucky. Yes, you worked hard and saved a lot, but no one reaches 5M liquid in their 40s without having a high paying job and/or making some lucky investments.\n What’s the point of this post? You’re not asking for advice or offering advice — just saying you can’t believe everyone doesn’t just retire with 5M in their 40s because it’s so … easy?" }, { "id": "t1_on3cazp", "author": "/u/il_fienile", "updated": "2026-05-21T17:16:50+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on3cazp/", "content": "I don’t know if it’s lucky, but it’s rare, which seems like all that’s relevant." }, { "id": "t1_on3cknb", "author": "/u/Keljhan", "updated": "2026-05-21T17:18:00+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on3cknb/", "content": "And so we both went to a state school and got bachelor's degrees\n Given a solid education and supportive communities and no major health issues and a sturdy work ethic, I'd wager 70-80% of people could complete a bachelor's degree. That said, maybe 25% of those degrees would be in fields that can earn 200k/yr. However, most people aren't lucky enough to have all of the above.\n Intelligence is luck. Good parenting is luck. Avoiding major medical or financial disasters through the end of college is actually quite a bit of luck. Working your way up the chain to a 200k/yr job is a ton of work, and also very lucky. Doubly so if you aren't cis or white in the West. Marrying someone who not only shares your intellect, your work ethic, and your life goals, but also earns 200k/yr is unbelievably rare.\n And of course we can't forget\n assuming no major market correction, and assuming we live into our 80's or 90's\n While this is more likely for a financially secure couple earning very high incomes, it's still probably less than 50% odds you actually live that long. Market corrections are basically guaranteed in that timespan." }, { "id": "t1_on4tzkb", "author": "/u/roomiethrowaway12", "updated": "2026-05-21T21:25:46+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on4tzkb/", "content": "Also, I'm just gonna take a guess that neither of them made the mistake of being disabled, chronically ill, or systematically discriminated against." }, { "id": "t1_on3cuy9", "author": "/u/AceGee", "updated": "2026-05-21T17:19:14+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on3cuy9/", "content": "You are out of touch. Yes it is easy for you guys because everything worked out for you guys. Everyone’s situations and timeline is different. You had the privilege to finish school while some couldn’t because of an external factor. You chose the right fields that happens to be lucrative while some chose the wrong ones. You also had the privilege of being born in a generation where everything was significantly cheaper. It is easy for you guys because it was literally easier than it is to now.\n Congratulations you got there but if you were born in todays generation, I dont think you would be anywhere close to where you would be jn your late 40s." }, { "id": "t1_on3fdn5", "author": "/u/idio242", "updated": "2026-05-21T17:30:13+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on3fdn5/", "content": "there will be endless examples of the OP in every generation." }, { "id": "t1_on3pbbp", "author": "/u/Jojosbees", "updated": "2026-05-21T18:14:28+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on3pbbp/", "content": "For real. In 20 years, Generation Beta will be talking about how easy it was for Gen Z.\n If OP started in the 90s, then they lived through the dotcom crash, the subsequent “lost decade,” 9/11, 2008 Great Recession, Iraq and Afghanistan Wars, etc, while they were in their building phase." }, { "id": "t1_on3ugpt", "author": "/u/idio242", "updated": "2026-05-21T18:38:02+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on3ugpt/", "content": "and they figured out how to do this without reddit and these subs." }, { "id": "t1_on3e0eb", "author": "/u/ZeusArgus", "updated": "2026-05-21T17:24:15+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on3e0eb/", "content": "OP .. money may have gotten to your heads I'm just saying because many will not earn 200,000 a year" }, { "id": "t1_on3ffdj", "author": "/u/emblemboy", "updated": "2026-05-21T17:30:26+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on3ffdj/", "content": "In retrospect, it was just so.....easy? I mean, we did work hard, but I don't feel like we did anything that couldn't be done by most people.\n I mean...your holdhold income was in the top 5% of US household income.\n Congratulations to your family and the hard work you put in, but...the median household income in the US is like 85k for a married couple.\n And considering that investing becomes easier by magnitudes when you have high amounts of disposable income that's then able to grow exponentially, it's not really that hard to understand" }, { "id": "t1_on5kzr0", "author": "/u/Avavee", "updated": "2026-05-21T23:55:44+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on5kzr0/", "content": "I think where OP is coming from is that they’ll likely achieve an 8 figure net worth by just “following the script”. It actually is incredible that we live in a society where you can even accumulate that level of wealth without doing something peculiar." }, { "id": "t1_on3g53w", "author": "/u/rosebudny", "updated": "2026-05-21T17:33:35+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on3g53w/", "content": "In retrospect, it was just so.....easy? I mean, we did work hard, but I don't feel like we did anything that couldn't be done by most people.\n I was with you until this statement. It was "easy" for YOU and your spouse. You probably both have some above-average level of intelligence, and while you didn't come from families with wealth, you had parents that encouraged you to go to college. You chose (intentionally or not) career paths that allow for $200K+ salaries, and managed to rise through the ranks to achieve those salaries.\n Yes, all this can in theory be achieved by "anyone"...but it is not necessarily "easy" for most." }, { "id": "t1_on57rzd", "author": "/u/ParkAffectionate3537", "updated": "2026-05-21T22:39:30+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on57rzd/", "content": "They avoided illnesses and accidents too!" }, { "id": "t1_onb149m", "author": "/u/episcopa", "updated": "2026-05-22T19:50:18+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/onb149m/", "content": "Also I have two friends that have autistic children that need round the clock care. One parent had to quit their job to take care of them. OP has had a LOT of luck!" }, { "id": "t1_on8o718", "author": "/u/DiscoStu0000", "updated": "2026-05-22T13:07:07+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on8o718/", "content": "OPs post is so out of touch. Simply having parents that support a path to college separates them from many others. There is little appreciation for the luck and good fortune they probably have had throughout their lives." }, { "id": "t1_on3du6d", "author": "/u/Impossible-Bug4487", "updated": "2026-05-21T17:23:30+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on3du6d/", "content": "I'm glad it was easy for you and you are retired. But it's a little bit of touch to compare your experience and project it on to others who isn't able to. I am not even sure what your question/support you are looking for?" }, { "id": "t1_on3h3if", "author": "/u/Active-Vegetable2313", "updated": "2026-05-21T17:37:47+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on3h3if/", "content": "Your post is so out of touch. Making over $200k is not “just so easy” lol.\n Get off reddit and go enjoy retirement" }, { "id": "t1_on4wevv", "author": "/u/Far_Flow1966", "updated": "2026-05-21T21:38:09+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on4wevv/", "content": "This post is such a boomer mentality. It’s giving “we didn’t buy avocado toast and Starbucks!”" }, { "id": "t1_on86on4", "author": "/u/dreamscapesparkle", "updated": "2026-05-22T11:24:43+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on86on4/", "content": "It’s also back in 2000-2010. That was more like 300-400k in today’s salary lol" }, { "id": "t1_on3q5od", "author": "/u/kcGirl_of_the_year", "updated": "2026-05-21T18:18:19+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on3q5od/", "content": "OP, sorry, but you’re very out of touch. I’m 50 years old, so my timeline lines up with yours, however, most people will not earn $400k a year for a household. Of course you can save money, you make a lot of it! 🙄 Get a grip!\n Did you pay for college, loans or mom and dad’s help?? I worked three jobs to put myself through college without taking loans! How much was your house? We’re still in our starter home we bought in 2005 for $185k! I drove 1989 Honda Accord for way too long (damn good car though). I made good money, but gave up the corporate life to raise my children instead. Spending quality time with them was more important than making tons of money, but hey, that’s just me. That said, we don’t have as much as you, but my husband will still retire in five years comfortably in chubby fire category.\n Your bragging post is very out of touch, especially with the younger generations. Let’s take a minute and think how goddamn lucky our generation (gen x) were with affordable college, homes and professional careers starting at one of the best times in history." }, { "id": "t1_on7mqnv", "author": "/u/Complete_Budget_8770", "updated": "2026-05-22T08:47:38+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on7mqnv/", "content": "OP isn't alone. We have done this and then some. My family came to this country as refugees. I was old enough to remember and young enough to start school in kindergarten. I have a learning disability and was in special ed until the 10th grade. I dropped out of college and returned 5 years later to get a B.S. + MBA. I had $50k in student loans.\n Started my own business just before the 2008 real estate crash. Just retired end of 2025.\n Didn't break even until year 4. Combined income reached $250k in year 7. Income exceeds $500k by year 10.\n NW in 8 figures. Burn rate ~2% of NW. Our kids will inherit 9 figures + per child assuming NW avg 10% YoY over the next 30ish years.\n Generational wealth is usually created in one generation and should be no surprise to anyone. Keeping the wealth going for more than 3 generations is the challenge. I'm planning to move a portion of the money into a structure that hopefully cannot be destroyed by a couple of misguided heirs." }, { "id": "t1_on3hf6n", "author": "/u/Alternative-Force-54", "updated": "2026-05-21T17:39:13+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on3hf6n/", "content": "Making 400k a year and the time frame of the last 20 years between stocks and housing is a golden age of investing. You won’t see this for another generation." }, { "id": "t1_on3be5m", "author": "/u/SpaceTimeMorph", "updated": "2026-05-21T17:12:50+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on3be5m/", "content": "People have short attention spans and want what they want now. Anything that delays that isn’t taken seriously.\n Further, people think wealth only comes from large gains made illicitly or by doing something extraordinary and underestimate the power of slow, determined growth over a long (ish) timeframe.\n Congrats to y’all and enjoy. You’ve earned it." }, { "id": "t1_on3c9ul", "author": "/u/Abject_Egg_194", "updated": "2026-05-21T17:16:42+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on3c9ul/", "content": "Generational wealth is as much about education (financial education and decision-making) as it is about leaving a big inheritance. My in-laws will leave more money to their kids than my parents will, yet my siblings will all be wealthier than my siblings-in-law. You have to raise your kids to be thoughtful and frugal and to value the money if you want your generational wealth to live on past a generation." }, { "id": "t1_on3t9kj", "author": "/u/Upper-Shoe-81", "updated": "2026-05-21T18:32:30+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on3t9kj/", "content": "Financial education and decision making is such an important (and underrated) point.\n A fun anecdote: my sister and I were raised by the same parents, and we're only a year apart in age. I started my career at 20 after getting my associates degree (was eager to join the workforce); later got my BA while working professionally full-time. My dad, a former stock broker, immediately jumped in to educate me about investing, saving, putting as much of my paycheck into whatever employer-matched accounts were offered, opening a ROTH and contributing the max every year, etc. I soaked it all in and for the last 25+ years I've watched my investments grow and compound. I should reach my FIRE number within 5 years, around 53 years old.\n My sister took 8 years to graduate from college, decided to be a stay at home mom for a while, then entered the workforce in her early-30's. Our dad did the same thing with her when she started her career by educating her and giving her the same advice he gave me. She opened up an IRA, deposited $3500 and put it into some fairly conservative investments. In 2008 with the housing market crash she watched her account dip, panicked, and withdrew everything in it (taking the tax hit). Decided it was a better idea to stockpile rice and flour in case the world ended... the mice in her garage ate it all that winter. She's never trusted the market and hasn't contributed a dime to any type of retirement account since.\n Dad passed away last year and left us an inheritance. I put my portion straight into a brokerage account, invested, and it's already grown by over 40%. Despite dad's written request that my sister invest the money and put it toward her retirement, she literally spent all of hers on debt and a lavish vacation with her kids.\n So yeah, while financial education is absolutely necessary, sometimes you can't teach the other very important half: decision-making." }, { "id": "t1_on3kvdv", "author": "/u/Individual_Section_6", "updated": "2026-05-21T17:54:30+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on3kvdv/", "content": "Yes. Generational wealth is earned and can easily be lost if careless. It can't be maintained if your offspring are careless and can't build their own careers. Unless your parents are billionaires." }, { "id": "t1_on3bako", "author": "/u/Dry_Try_6047", "updated": "2026-05-21T17:12:23+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on3bako/", "content": "$5m isn't generational wealth. It's a nightmare, Greg." }, { "id": "t1_on3bhhi", "author": "/u/Dunnowhathatis", "updated": "2026-05-21T17:13:15+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on3bhhi/", "content": "Greg, read the post again, then comment" }, { "id": "t1_on3e90q", "author": "/u/JHG722", "updated": "2026-05-21T17:25:18+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on3e90q/", "content": "It’s pretty out of touch because most people, let alone families don’t earn $200K a year." }, { "id": "t1_on3flyc", "author": "/u/Ok_Ad7867", "updated": "2026-05-21T17:31:15+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on3flyc/", "content": "Fire /jerk might be a better spot to post. This sounds a bit like a brag. Good for you, but I know very few people in the 200K income bracket. Perhaps they are just keeping it to themselves?\n The 200K/year income isn't just given out and careers and college do require a certain aptitude and investment in both time and money in addition to the hard work. Keeping that job also requires a certain amount of work.\n There really should be courses taught on this in public schools with specific actual examples instead of word of mouth theory...maybe some do, but personal financial illiteracy doesn’t seem (edited tyo) to be prevalent in all generations, especially regarding debt." }, { "id": "t1_on3kmma", "author": "/u/Grumpy_Troll", "updated": "2026-05-21T17:53:25+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on3kmma/", "content": "70% of families with generational wealth squander it by the second generation. 90% by the third generation. Unless you teach your children and grandchildren about financial literacy, you didn't create generational wealth, you just set your kids up for half a lifetime's worth of all the hookers and blow they want." }, { "id": "t1_on3l3yf", "author": "/u/FromTheOR", "updated": "2026-05-21T17:55:33+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on3l3yf/", "content": "I walked so my son could run" }, { "id": "t1_on505wu", "author": "/u/FrostedGalaxy", "updated": "2026-05-21T21:57:29+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on505wu/", "content": "That study is way flawed btw" }, { "id": "t1_on3usur", "author": "/u/Helen-Killer", "updated": "2026-05-21T18:39:36+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on3usur/", "content": "AI" }, { "id": "t1_on3e8we", "author": "/u/JetBlckPope", "updated": "2026-05-21T17:25:17+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on3e8we/", "content": "You don't give yourself enough credit with those $200000 incomes. That's very difficult to achieve and most people can't do it, even if they're otherwise doing everything right." }, { "id": "t1_on3q723", "author": "/u/evilcheesypoof", "updated": "2026-05-21T18:18:29+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on3q723/", "content": "I know you weren’t trying to make it sound actually easy like “why don’t more people do it?”\n But you guys were making way over the average household income, by a huge amount. Most people don’t have the opportunity, knowledge, or luck to make it there. Even if they go to college and get a job with it…they still have to get the right kind of jobs with the right amount of growth potential to even sniff $200k salary\n Everybody is capable of learning, finding a job, saving/investing, and not spending more than they make. But the actual amount of money involved is typically way lower than what you guys ended up with.\n For a lot of people that saving/investing money might be a few dollars because they need to afford groceries that week." }, { "id": "t1_on3chrf", "author": "/u/luap74", "updated": "2026-05-21T17:17:39+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on3chrf/", "content": "I grew up the same, and now work with people whose parents paid for grad school, down payment on house and cars. They are well adjusted hard working people. I’ve also know trust fund kids from family’s with generational wealth who were making a mess of their lives. Always assumed there would be a negative to getting that much help before I was exposed to it. So long as my kids keep putting in the work and making good decisions I’ll help them out with all of the big expenses, to the best of my ability." }, { "id": "t1_on3floo", "author": "/u/nlm052561", "updated": "2026-05-21T17:31:13+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on3floo/", "content": "I’ve thought about this from my perspective recently. My wives grandfather will die with a net worth of 5-10 mil. His two kids are well off and made their own wealth. Most likely that amount will continue to be passed on to the next generation. My wife and I and her sister have already eclipsed 1 million in net worth in our 30s.\n I say all that because by the time it gets to us we probably wont need it either. I think it is important to teach the next generation to work and save their own money and not rely on eventually receiving a big inheritance. Everything you and your husband have worked for can be undone in a matter a years. I’ve seen someone inherited 5 million and spent it all within years because of a gambling addiction.\n If your goal is to create generational wealth, your work is only partially done. Continue to teach the next generation how to build their own wealth and not rely on you for a handout." }, { "id": "t1_on3jesl", "author": "/u/Nat1Halfling", "updated": "2026-05-21T17:48:04+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on3jesl/", "content": "35k in 97 would be 82k in today's money. The median full time US salary is approx 60k. And you had more than the median as a "starting" salary.\n Achieving 82k as a starting salary today is impossible for nearly everyone. You lived in a completely different time.\n EDIT: your house will also have been much cheaper than they are today." }, { "id": "t1_on3jpc7", "author": "/u/WhyHaveIContinued", "updated": "2026-05-21T17:49:22+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on3jpc7/", "content": "This seems incredibly out of touch and FIRE isn’t easy for most people. Using myself as an example, my parents didn’t help with college so I was often forced to donate plasma on top of working just to afford food. This prevented me from saving even a penny while in college. I didn’t get financial aid or most scholarships because my parents made too much, but didn’t contribute to college. I then graduated into a horrible job market and had to settle for a $25k/yr job that I hated until I could land something better, all the while paying my student loans.\n Once I finally got a decent paying job (by working 60-80hr weeks, someone scrapped my car for parts while parked at my apartment and I couldn’t afford to replace it. Simultaneously my husband took a permanent 10% pay reduction because of the “downturn in the market” while rent also increased by $500/mo. I then got diagnosed with a genetic disorder that had me shoveling out thousands each year on specialists which will continue until I die. I finally managed to get a job that I like with an amazing team and benefits and decent pay. Now trump has put tariffs on many things, starting wars, etc all of which caused the cost of living to increase dramatically.\n So there is a lot of luck on landing a good job/having the right opportunities available to you and the generation you were born In. My husband and I are making decent progress on our FI goals, but unless something dramatic happens I am not sure even our frugality will allow for RE if prices keep increasing as they have been since 2020 onward" }, { "id": "t1_on5vwr1", "author": "/u/Honest_Extreme9196", "updated": "2026-05-22T01:01:13+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on5vwr1/", "content": "Your post is a perfect example of why the "we got what we have because we work hard (and you didn't)" belief pisses me off so much. Some people have no idea the struggles many people have through no fault of their own. Although I grew up in extremely difficult circumstances, I have also been fortunate in so many ways. I don't get how some really don't see the pure luck in their life. Is it some kind of superiority complex? Frankly, I see many people in poverty working harder than myself and others around me. My husband has worked extremely hard, but was also LUCKY as he has a physical job and we've seen many people lose their health and ability to continue in his field. My young adult kids are facing obstacles my husband and I did not have. I could ramble on and on. I just really wanted to say good job and best wishes to you." }, { "id": "t1_on91j89", "author": "/u/WhyHaveIContinued", "updated": "2026-05-22T14:13:41+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on91j89/", "content": "Thank you so much. We are clawing our way slowly to our goals the best we can. I hope you and your children also reach your goals." }, { "id": "t1_on3jpz8", "author": "/u/Gold-Recover2883", "updated": "2026-05-21T17:49:26+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on3jpz8/", "content": "You have lived through the greatest economic boom period in history as globalization pushed up profits and kept inflation low. At this time your house hold income was also very high relative to most. Assuming this is a real post then yes you are out of touch." }, { "id": "t1_on3mkp6", "author": "/u/ndfc69", "updated": "2026-05-21T18:02:01+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on3mkp6/", "content": "The story and the outcome is genuinely impressive. But I'd push back slightly on one part.\n You said most people could do what you did. I think that undersells two things you actually got right that are harder than they look.\n The first is field selection in your 20s, before you had any evidence that it would pay off. Choosing a lucrative field at 22 when you are broke and have no reference point for what $200k even feels like requires a kind of forward modeling that most people from paycheck-to-paycheck backgrounds genuinely do not have access to, because nobody around them is doing it.\n The second is that you both did it. A dual high-income household that stays together, stays aligned on spending, and compounds together for 25 years is a multiplier that is easy to underestimate in retrospect.\n The part worth thinking about now is the other side of what you built.\n Tens of millions to kids who grew up comfortable is a completely different inheritance problem than the one you solved. You figured out how to build from nothing with no safety net; your kids will not have it. The question of how you pass on the orientation that built the wealth, not just the wealth itself, is the harder problem, and it does not have a simple answer.\n Most people who get where you are spend more time thinking about asset allocation than about that question. It is probably the one worth more of your attention now." }, { "id": "t1_on93roc", "author": "/u/skdeimos", "updated": "2026-05-22T14:24:13+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on93roc/", "content": "i mean, everything you said is right, but... bot comment" }, { "id": "t1_on3cne6", "author": "/u/TheSurround56", "updated": "2026-05-21T17:18:20+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on3cne6/", "content": "What jobs did you have that paid 200k with just a BA?" }, { "id": "t1_on3mk7i", "author": "/u/Jojosbees", "updated": "2026-05-21T18:01:57+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on3mk7i/", "content": "My guess would be engineering." }, { "id": "t1_on3damg", "author": "/u/Top_Substance9093", "updated": "2026-05-21T17:21:07+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on3damg/", "content": "you hit on a lot of valid points. you don't actually have to earn a ton to retire a millionaire+. people, on average, have very little discipline. building some wealth doesn't require a large income, but it does require discipline (which is the secret sauce that i think you're undervaluing when reflecting on your own story).\n that said, dual income > $400k is relatively fringe. you have to be moderately competent people who both worked relatively hard and were reasonably fortunate in their circumstances to see that kind of success.\n in general though, i agree with you. building wealth isn't "hard".\n i have a buddy from high school who's >$80k in consumer+student debt, and after reviewing his finances with him it's 99% because he made bad choices. his net worth could be >$200k instead of -$80k at 30 years old if he just had a bit of discipline.\n many people will stay broke and shake their fist at the "rich", and there is a legitimate need to address wealth inequality, but they're shaking their fist with one hand while shooting themselves in the foot with the other." }, { "id": "t1_on3f1fr", "author": "/u/Beginning_Shape_7608", "updated": "2026-05-21T17:28:44+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on3f1fr/", "content": "You’re both right and out of touch a bit. You’re out of touch because you both had jobs where your salaries increased seven fold in 10 years. Most people are not in jobs that will do that.\n Everything else you said though is correct invest consistently and live frugally. You may not end up with 5+ million dollars and generational wealth, but you could have a couple million and one solid retirement… even fire." }, { "id": "t1_on3fkfa", "author": "/u/Pangolin_farmer", "updated": "2026-05-21T17:31:03+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on3fkfa/", "content": "It was easy for you because of 2 generally uncommon things striking the same place twice.\n\n- Living frugally (something I’d say 10% of the population does)\n\n- High income (you’re income puts you probably around top 2%)\n Neither of those are exceptionally rare but both of them in the same place is extremely rare. That’s it." }, { "id": "t1_on3gm1z", "author": "/u/HolidayFront4560", "updated": "2026-05-21T17:35:38+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on3gm1z/", "content": "This isn't a cheat code available to all. Your household income is in the top 2% of all Americans. Certainly part of that is due to hard work, but there are many, many others who work hard and don't make that much (law of supply & demand, there just aren't many job paying that much). Secondly, I suspect that you and your family haven't encountered major health issues that strained your finances. Many people aren't so fortunate. Someone in the family has a chronic, debilitating disease (physical or mental), or a child is born with severe needs - and suddenly most of your earnings are directed towards their care.\n tldr: FIRE + generational wealth is fringe because it requires a rare combination of hard work and discipline plus a lot of luck." }, { "id": "t1_on3gx1u", "author": "/u/InvestigatorPlus3229", "updated": "2026-05-21T17:36:59+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on3gx1u/", "content": "just remember generational wealth gets pissed away in 3 generations usually" }, { "id": "t1_on3jzzw", "author": "/u/eeeeeelinor", "updated": "2026-05-21T17:50:41+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on3jzzw/", "content": "My thoughts: You don't have to apologize for yourself or qualify your statements. You have accomplished something big.\n I grew up immigrant-poor in a poor area and went to shitty schools. I didn't even pick a lucrative field--we make salaries that track with those of public school teachers in our area. AND we only learned about investing at age 40. Our kid will inherit generational wealth.\n It's crazy that when you tell people about this, they usually argue with you. My parents are money-under-the-mattress-and-pension types, and they roll their eyes when I talk about investing. I was taught to never borrow money and only buy what I can pay for in cash. My in-laws are downwardly mobile--American boomers who had it all and wasted it. All four have stellar university educations but had very middling jobs and careers, and "we can't afford it" was the background music of our lives. My husband has terrible teeth because no one ever bothered to fix them.\n That said, life can always throw curveballs. My family had wealth before those pesky Communists came through and took it all. So, be proud of yourself, but also remember to enjoy every moment!\n edit: there's a thing immigrants from my country sometimes say: Americans who are poor are poor because they decide to be. Obviously this isn't true, since there are people who have been structurally disadvantaged over generations, or never had much of a chance. But when I look at my in-laws, it's hard to think otherwise." }, { "id": "t1_on3r5dh", "author": "/u/Bayou_vg", "updated": "2026-05-21T18:22:50+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on3r5dh/", "content": "People earning 5x the US HHI average wondering why more people don’t FIRE seems odd." }, { "id": "t1_on3tjbw", "author": "/u/eeeeeelinor", "updated": "2026-05-21T18:33:45+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on3tjbw/", "content": "Eh. My first job in 2001 paid 35K in NYC. Between 2001 and 2012, I was unemployed for 26 months (edit: and spent 1.5 yrs in grad school living on student loans on top of that) and never made more than 46K even when I did work. In 2012 I scored a job making 77K and thought I hit the jackpot. I crossed 100K at 42 and got furloughed for 4 months during Covid. My husband has a similar history but usually made a bit less than I did. We are now 50 and unless the world blows up, our one kid will inherit millions. No inheritance or windfall, just two people moving to an unglamorous neighborhood and investing as much as possible in index funds." }, { "id": "t1_on452rr", "author": "/u/Bayou_vg", "updated": "2026-05-21T19:27:19+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on452rr/", "content": "Similar story, similar outcome in DC. OP's story won't resonate with most,, but yours would. I hope you post it as inspiration for the average.\n I still get why people with typical incomes work until 65. GenX to early Millennial got no finanical education in school and limited internet resources. If their parents were terrible with money or just said "save" instead of "invest", then it's pretty easy to wake up at 40 realizing you missed the boat." }, { "id": "t1_on47wuy", "author": "/u/eeeeeelinor", "updated": "2026-05-21T19:40:46+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on47wuy/", "content": "OP's story resonates with me, since as a NYC resident, I don't find her numbers *that* high. We were just low-income here, lol.\n I mentioned it in another post on this thread, but we did start at 40! That's the kicker.\n I don't particularly want to retire early, but I think if we wanted to, or were laid off in some apocalypse, we could still retire around 60. I'd probably choose to work for the generational wealth aspect, though." }, { "id": "t1_on3rmck", "author": "/u/rh681", "updated": "2026-05-21T18:24:59+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on3rmck/", "content": "The cheat code is "each earning over $200K per year." Even in HCOL areas, that is pretty good for ONE person in a couple, let alone two. I'm not sure why that is surprising." }, { "id": "t1_on3tlm6", "author": "/u/Dazzling_Trick3009", "updated": "2026-05-21T18:34:02+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on3tlm6/", "content": "It’s crazy to you that more people don’t save more money when we live in a country where a majority of people live paycheck to paycheck and don’t have guaranteed healthcare? You’re living in a fairytale.\n Really truly out of touch stuff, especially for the times we’re in." }, { "id": "t1_on3veyg", "author": "/u/Palchez", "updated": "2026-05-21T18:42:25+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on3veyg/", "content": "Everyone is focusing on the income that was made later in life. The FIRE side of this is that since 1997 the S&P 500 is up 1,259%. Anyone who was disciplined and kept investing through the few crashes would have done very well." }, { "id": "t1_on3ztgi", "author": "/u/stellularmoon2", "updated": "2026-05-21T19:02:34+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on3ztgi/", "content": "Woman from a single parent household here.\n I got married. I went to college.\n However I never got that kind of job that steadily earned promotions until I was making 200 K a year. I’ve been working as a trainer for over 30 years. I even have a masters degree and only now by working incredibly hard and many hours and literally busting my ass am I making even close to 100 grand. You guys had years and years of making a very high salary that I did not have. 2 of you!\n Not to mention that I had kids, I took time off to raise my kids. Then one of my kids got cancer…then my mother got cancer. So lots of caregiving (pay is shit for that by the way).\n Then divorce. Ex fought me tooth and nail to pay the bare minimum of child support. He had partial visitation, but I ended up taking care of the kids full-time while trying to make money.\n So yeah, you may have done everything right. But you were down right lucky.\n Smart but also lucky so don’t forget it. You never got a divorce. You never got cancer or had a close family member you had to put a career on hold for. You just churned out money and stuck it away in the bank. Good for you. Not everyone has this life path, these chances or these opportunities.\n You’re a good example of being blind to your privilege. Don’t break your hand patting yourself on the back." }, { "id": "t1_on49n1g", "author": "/u/jalopkoala", "updated": "2026-05-21T19:48:51+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on49n1g/", "content": "My friend is a personal assistant. She spends $200k booking just the flights for spring break for the family she works for. Forget the accommodations and chefs and activities. Wealth is relative.\n You’ve done amazing!" }, { "id": "t1_on4jss8", "author": "/u/TheHumanConnector", "updated": "2026-05-21T20:36:10+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on4jss8/", "content": "Bruv, what you did is earth-shattering!! To be in a place of security and leaving behind millions - wow. That's awesome. Good job!!\n Most people don't have the foundation for this. So, monetarily they might be elsewhere. But who knows, might be just as happy and content too. The true measure, to me, is peace and self-satisfaction!" }, { "id": "t1_on56wkq", "author": "/u/meganmalo", "updated": "2026-05-21T22:34:33+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on56wkq/", "content": "My husband and I come from similar backgrounds as you and your husband. We don’t earn $200k ea but we do pretty well. We chose jobs that we knew would give us the potential to earn high salaries. One issue is that many, many jobs do not pay as well. I have friends from more upper class backgrounds that chose jobs like teaching, or social work. They will never have the chance to earn $200k in those careers. But we need people doing those jobs. So the potential to retire with that amount of money is not possible for everyone. And even for those of us like my husband and myself, $200k is an extremely high salary." }, { "id": "t1_on660qw", "author": "/u/asurkhaib", "updated": "2026-05-22T02:02:51+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on660qw/", "content": "Starts well above the median and wonders why the median person can't do the same thing." }, { "id": "t1_on6kyvl", "author": "/u/i_dont_hoard_cash", "updated": "2026-05-22T03:40:18+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on6kyvl/", "content": "Many people hit roadblocks — illness, deadbeat siblings, difficult parents, depressive jobs, unsupportive managers, no partner to share their emotions with. We only get one life. Maybe more people need to be open to jobs that are outside their initial interests as they reach adulthood, but others may rather choose to chase their passions, their dreams. Maybe that means they have to sacrifice wealth to do so, and others are just willing to take some risk." }, { "id": "t1_on76x7t", "author": "/u/Super_Huckleberry663", "updated": "2026-05-22T06:29:55+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on76x7t/", "content": "Most people can become rich, most people also don't want to make the sacrifices they need to in order to become rich" }, { "id": "t1_on9ayav", "author": "/u/Tough7432", "updated": "2026-05-22T14:58:40+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on9ayav/", "content": "Very similar story for the wife and I. It was all educated guesses and hard work and it paid off. Had no idea the corporate world could be so lucrative compared to the blue collar life. I bet most still don't realize that. My company has both blue collar and white collar jobs. The blue collar folks get buy and can save. But the white collar jobs especially if your spouse is the same will far exceed the cost of living. That is if your company matches competitors or tries to pay better than competitors." }, { "id": "t1_on3bv46", "author": "/u/seafloorvent", "updated": "2026-05-21T17:14:54+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on3bv46/", "content": "There’s a reason generational wealth tends not to last generations. The things you learned to get here won’t be there for your kids. It is wild to look around at the choices others make and think, how could they be so short sighted, but that’s life. I can only hope it works out to be easier than I expect it to be as well, and that some day I’ll be sitting on several million." }, { "id": "t1_on3c9wb", "author": "/u/Mysterious-Hold5244", "updated": "2026-05-21T17:16:42+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on3c9wb/", "content": "My father did the same thing- creating generational wealth. It starts somewhere." }, { "id": "t1_on3fxw9", "author": "/u/OverlordBluebook", "updated": "2026-05-21T17:32:42+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on3fxw9/", "content": "Congratulations, money/investing is an enigma to many. I try to help family do it but they take it as an insult or just say they don't have money to invest or think 401k is good enough." }, { "id": "t1_on3hecv", "author": "/u/Acrobatic-Jaguar-134", "updated": "2026-05-21T17:39:07+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on3hecv/", "content": "You both did the right thing with your luck, but you failed to mention your luck. A lot of commenters covered most of the of things that had to go your way already, but if anyone in your family got a devastating illness - whether it’s one that stops you from working and/or costs a lot, you wouldn’t be where you are now. It’s really not that rare." }, { "id": "t1_on3hn51", "author": "/u/Laumba", "updated": "2026-05-21T17:40:10+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on3hn51/", "content": "you had like the perfect line up of good jobs you make an absurd amount of money compared to most people" }, { "id": "t1_on3hw9h", "author": "/u/yogaballcactus", "updated": "2026-05-21T17:41:17+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on3hw9h/", "content": "I think it’s interesting that pretty much anyone who earns decent-but-not-necessarily-incredible money can create generational wealth. This is doubly true now that people are having fewer kids and, therefore, diluting their inheritance less.\n Let’s say you make a household income of $120k (so two earners making $60k each) and save 15% of it and get a 7% real return. Let’s say you only save for 30 years (you spend the first decade of your career paying off student loans and getting established). You’ll have $1.8MM after 30 years, in today’s dollars. Draw 4% of that for a 30 year retirement and you leave your kids $4.1MM when you die. If your kids manage that portfolio prudently and also save 15% of their income throughout their careers then you get truly insane wealth within just two or three generations. Like “my grandkids never have to work a day in their lives” levels of wealth.\n I suspect it won’t happen all that often, though, because it’s going to be really hard for anyone who saved up a huge retirement nest egg not to either retire early or to spend a bunch of it before they die. It would also be really difficult to keep on diligently saving 15% of your income after inheriting millions of dollars. But the math is there for a middle class person today to turn their grandkids into the modern day equivalent of the 18th century landed aristocracy 60 years from now." }, { "id": "t1_on3j5pc", "author": "/u/EnsignAwesome", "updated": "2026-05-21T17:46:57+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on3j5pc/", "content": "Each earning $200k a year is NOT the norm, even for corporate jobs. Most couples choose to have one parent focusing more on family than earnings. If you're in the top 1% of wage earners that's great but I think it's a little simplistic to say that's "easy." Couldn't you say that's "lucky"?" }, { "id": "t1_on3jgh4", "author": "/u/UpTheDumpIsRetarded", "updated": "2026-05-21T17:48:17+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on3jgh4/", "content": "The thing to keep in mind is a lot of people are also invested in index funds. If you end up with 20 million, so will a lot of other people, and it won’t be quite as life changing as you think." }, { "id": "t1_on3krz5", "author": "/u/DwarvenGardener", "updated": "2026-05-21T17:54:05+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on3krz5/", "content": "Your salaries are all things considered, huge. Most people don’t make a lot of money. For the average person, if fire is achievable at all, it’s not live in a van for five years with a huge tech salary to retire at 30/40 it’s live frugally forever and maybe retire in your 50s. Most will see that as far less exciting and not a good enough reason to spend less now. Sustaining a plan for over two decades is a very very hard thing to do." }, { "id": "t1_on3lfba", "author": "/u/setentaydos", "updated": "2026-05-21T17:56:55+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on3lfba/", "content": "Congrats on your achievements, you and your partner worked hard for it and you should celebrate it.\n The one part that can be interpreted as “out of touch”, as you mentioned at the beginning of your post, is this whole paragraph:\n “In retrospect, it was just so.....easy? I mean, we did work hard, but I don't feel like we did anything that couldn't be done by most people.”\n Being out of touch by definition is lacking awareness of current or regular situations in life. I’m not saying you are, but reading that paragraph makes me wonder what working hard looks to you, and whether you’ve considered the context in your life that allowed you to align luck with hard work. For example, there are many people in our society who work harder than what I’ve ever worked in my life, and get paid a fraction of what some of us make. They may come from social circles that have historically not been given a chance, so they have to work twice as hard for half the opportunities others get.\n It’s good to keep this in mind because, by doing that, one can feel grateful about the opportunities life gave us, rather than thinking this was easy and this can be done by most people if they just work hard.\n Again, congrats on your success and practice gratefulness." }, { "id": "t1_on3lvzw", "author": "/u/queerdildo", "updated": "2026-05-21T17:58:58+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on3lvzw/", "content": "Luck comes in to play here. Obviously, there are infinite scenarios that could be conjured where one small misstep or an opportunity that doesn’t exist bc of geography, etc, could change the entire trajectory." }, { "id": "t1_on3m6zw", "author": "/u/glumpoodle", "updated": "2026-05-21T18:00:19+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on3m6zw/", "content": "Because it's boring.\n People dream big, but actually attaining success in pretty much any field is usually filled with a lot of boring, repetitive details that requires effort to maintain for long periods of time. Everyone wants to be Shohei Ohtani, but few consider the thousands of hours of boring training and conditioning he goes through to be Ohtani.\n FIRE doesn't require a huge salary, but it does require you to be disciplined for several decades. Most people can do it for short periods, but to do it for years upon years while you watch people around you spend and enjoy themselves? That's a lot more difficult." }, { "id": "t1_on3ma4z", "author": "/u/Annual-Knowledge4412", "updated": "2026-05-21T18:00:42+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on3ma4z/", "content": "your biggest lucky star was born in the United States in the 20th century, with that one condition you beat out 95% of the world population without even trying." }, { "id": "t1_on3mzgs", "author": "/u/Past-Option2702", "updated": "2026-05-21T18:03:51+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on3mzgs/", "content": "In your late 40s with 5M I wouldn’t assume anything even close to “tens of millions of dollars” for you children. In today’s dollars especially.\n Many retirees have two even three times your invested assets and their modeling barely ten million left someday. Sure, they’re spending it down like they should be, but still.\n Side note: Many people in your position have a sort of feeling of impending doom since you’re right.. you shouldn’t be as wealthy as you are. (Nor should I and hundreds of thousands of others of us- if not millions) Will it all come crashing down around us at some point? Some smart people think so." }, { "id": "t1_on3nhjg", "author": "/u/ktn699", "updated": "2026-05-21T18:06:09+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on3nhjg/", "content": "this is why we immigrants love America.\n You can work your ass off here and set you and your kids up well.\n When you come from a shithole place, you're so used to the misery that America, despite its dysfunction is still way way way better.\n 35k a year ain't no problem when you started out at 150/month and the local party official takes a 10 dollar bribe so you can keep running your little shop to scrape by. your kids get no shot at ever even going to college to make a better life for themselves. they end up running the same shop, scraping by the same way. welps, that's why my parents left the old country and now are about to retire with 3 houses and a net worth of about 4 or 5M or whatever. Never took a cent of govt handout and always paid their taxes too. the handout is actually the opportunity to work hard and by their own hard work make a decent life.\n but then you get called a boomer if you start talking like that, so shhh!!! luckily they did pass this on to us kids, so no complaining here... but the comfortable second generation is where shit usually goes south." }, { "id": "t1_on3p01o", "author": "/u/MaybeTheDoctor", "updated": "2026-05-21T18:13:02+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on3p01o/", "content": "Not living beyond your means is the trick for anybody. I’m in the same boat, but I’m not planning to leave $10m to kids who are living beyond their means (longer discussion for a different day), instead I’m looking to set up a fund that can pay for future generation education, so they can build their own wealth. Basically, anybody in my extended family should not have to skip college or university because they could not afford tuition, and they should not graduate with student debt." }, { "id": "t1_on3qgf1", "author": "/u/bothtypesoffirefly", "updated": "2026-05-21T18:19:41+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on3qgf1/", "content": "I will say both my parents did this, starting from basically nothing but with emotionally supportive families. They’re both still working in their 70’s because they like what they do (mom technically retired early but has had a part time job that lets her travel since then. Dad is a contractor and is always digging something up, regardless of whether he could technically retire). Neither of them paid for any of my bills etc since I moved out, but they did pay for incidentals (meals or shopping trips when I visited), but I realize I’m luckier than most people.\n So it’s not that out of the ordinary, but a lot of the people who could retire just don’t, either due to inertia or some sort of societal obligation.\n My husband and I could retire (husband is basically already there but technically has a couple of part time jobs for nonprofits), but I’m still working for benefits at this point. It’s getting harder and harder to force myself to go to work these days, but I have a job that is the max income I could get with very little effort, so it feels like I should keep going. If at point I ever run into a boss or work issue that is a deal breaker, I’ll just RE and be done with it. My dad wants me to come “manage my inheritance” anyway." }, { "id": "t1_on3qvnb", "author": "/u/GladBumblebee1546", "updated": "2026-05-21T18:21:37+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on3qvnb/", "content": "Going from blue collar families to college educated with high paying jobs is not easy. Then living frugally after a childhood of money worries is also not that common. There are also a lot of things that can go wrong - teen pregnancies, a partner with addictions, disabilities or health issues, poor investment decisions. Congrats on your hard work and your frugality and good choices, with some luck thrown in there - market timing etc - but it isn’t a common thing for so many reasons (I did much the same thing but at a lower salary/wealth level so yes, it’s possible)." }, { "id": "t1_on3sp89", "author": "/u/NumberPusher", "updated": "2026-05-21T18:29:55+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on3sp89/", "content": "I’m sure for LeBron James it feels easy to play professional basketball. It doesn’t mean everyone can do it." }, { "id": "t1_on3u808", "author": "/u/Rtfmlife", "updated": "2026-05-21T18:36:55+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on3u808/", "content": "We are in much the same situation (retiring this year, ~$6.5M NW) and we have never really had the kind of doctor/tech job income either - we've done similar to you in income. It doesn't feel like we did anything crazy, just had good jobs and lived relatively frugally.\n It's more about not making huge mistakes like divorce, job changes, addictions/major sickness/etc that generally derail people. Not falling victim to lifestyle creep is huge.\n Great job y'all, joining you in 1 month!" }, { "id": "t1_on3ytle", "author": "/u/jonahtrav", "updated": "2026-05-21T18:57:59+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on3ytle/", "content": "You each were earning over $200,000 a year. I think there's the answer because only 5 to 7% of individuals make that kind of money... now I'm not picking on you. I'm just saying that's unusual that both people in a marriage make that kind of money." }, { "id": "t1_on402y5", "author": "/u/Wilhelm-Edrasill", "updated": "2026-05-21T19:03:48+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on402y5/", "content": "The only Reason FIRE can function = its dependent on it being fringe.\n idk - not to be rude - however this is some massive glazing going on right here " And yet, most people obviously don't do it."\n Most people, never have been or ever will be in the position to cash in on " lucrative fields".\n That's. The . Rub.\n You guys are some of the lucky ones , appreciate it." }, { "id": "t1_on44jo6", "author": "/u/GetMeOutdoors", "updated": "2026-05-21T19:24:49+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on44jo6/", "content": "OP certainly seems privileged and out of touch. Not many couples make $400k in their early 40’s. Shocking you could put away excess cash" }, { "id": "t1_on48rhp", "author": "/u/groundhogcow", "updated": "2026-05-21T19:44:46+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on48rhp/", "content": "My kids are likely going to get some money.\n I don't expect ether of them to have a cent of it 2 years later.\n I tried to teach them better. Not my problem." }, { "id": "t1_on4eq3x", "author": "/u/Corded_Chaos", "updated": "2026-05-21T20:12:25+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on4eq3x/", "content": "You are simply out of touch with what a normal/average household income is. $400k HHI is why this felt "easy" to you." }, { "id": "t1_on4vtds", "author": "/u/leathakkor", "updated": "2026-05-21T21:35:05+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on4vtds/", "content": "One of my favorite phrases in life is: do what you have to do when you have to do it so you can do what you want to do when you want to do it.\n I have shared this expression with people and they have said you must have a terrible unenjoyable life. The difference is I'm going to be retiring when I'm 45 because when I was 20 I had to save so that when I was 40 I could do what I wanted.\n So many people want to have fun when they're 20 and they're stuck having to do everything else the rest of their life because they had fun in their twenties.\n There are different choices in the world and you can't force anyone to change how they prioritize or value the things in their life. It's obviously terrible when people are stuck working when they're in their '70s, but they are doing it because of choices that they made when they were younger. And that's just how the world works. Obviously there are other outside factors and it's not just one decision or a series of decisions. Some people are born into abusive families and never escape the trauma. But we all make our decisions in life. Some have good outcomes. Some have bad outcomes.\n People in the fire community generally excel because there's a lot of people making bad choices that lead to bad outcomes and very few people making good choices that lead to good outcomes. And we take advantage of that" }, { "id": "t1_on57aqu", "author": "/u/1The_Big_Cheese", "updated": "2026-05-21T22:36:48+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on57aqu/", "content": "I came from a similar background. Left home with about $60 in my pocket, and I've been grinding ever since. No college or certifications for me but have a path to an engineering role to make a bit more. Overall I feel as if I am doing very well. I have a young child and am on target to retire fairly early. With a young child I am trying to be pretty conservative on my retirement planning which will probably end up with a big chunk of change going to my child. Also have a 529 that is being well funded that should be able to cover my child's college and hopefully max out the allowable amount to move to my child's ROTH. Growing up I could never fathom having anything like that.\n I would not say it has been easy, but the fundamentals of saving and investing in tax efficient accounts does seem like something that should be pursued by a much larger portion of society. Even friends that are "investing heavily" are typically someone trying to hit a grand slam (I hope they do) but it ends up biting them in the ass more often than not.\n FIRE does not have the fun flashy appeal that stock trading and "living in the moment" has in most people's eyes." }, { "id": "t1_on59vig", "author": "/u/LowLokiKey", "updated": "2026-05-21T22:51:19+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on59vig/", "content": "I think this is pretty tone deaf. Standard path worked for you both, which is fantastic! But many things can affect success outside of individual control that you both were lucky enough to avoid. Many trappings out there and circumstances vary." }, { "id": "t1_on5al20", "author": "/u/yuvaldv1", "updated": "2026-05-21T22:55:16+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on5al20/", "content": "You basically did what my parents did. They earned about the same, saved a lot and lived below their means for their entire careers.\n They retired last year with a net worth of almost $15 million. Compound interest alone generated almost $2 million dollars last year (I calculated it myself and my jaw dropped).\n I will say though that earning that much is extremely rare, and having the discipline to save so much over the years + financial knowledge to actually invest your money is even rarer." }, { "id": "t1_on5lel2", "author": "/u/Passionofthegrape", "updated": "2026-05-21T23:58:10+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on5lel2/", "content": "Your cheat code was that you saved and invested.\n I know plenty of people who earn way more than you guys but who don’t do that.\n Compound interest is a powerful force." }, { "id": "t1_on5mf2m", "author": "/u/fartdonkey420", "updated": "2026-05-22T00:04:21+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on5mf2m/", "content": "I would argue it's fringe because it's almost entirely about delaying gratification and living within one's means.\n What comes to mind for me is my wife, her siblings, and their cousins each got $25k for an inheritance when their grandmother passed.\n We used less than a thousand to splurge and bring the kids on an overnight vacation to a zoo. The rest went to paying down student debt and savings\n My BIL, about ten years older than me, dropped 5k on a mattress, 2.5k on a computer, and sunk another 7k into cosmetic upgrades to his car. I have literally no idea how he's going to survive once he can't work as he's still a renter in a high COL area. He can't stop himself from spending." }, { "id": "t1_on60w0g", "author": "/u/Realistic_Expert8009", "updated": "2026-05-22T01:31:24+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on60w0g/", "content": "Same. This is why it’s so irritating to hear about taxing wealth and tax the high earners. My husband and I started with nothing. Worked our way through college and earned our way into high paying jobs while saving along the way. There’s no magic here, just hard work, consistency, and personal accountability. Which most people aren’t willing to do, then blame society for their problems and lack of initiative" }, { "id": "t1_on6fe0t", "author": "/u/sluttyman69", "updated": "2026-05-22T03:01:44+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on6fe0t/", "content": "Now you do his teach your children, how not to waste the money they’re given and blow their inheritance - - leave it in the care of their current most financial responsible child, but given to their youngest living air in perpetuity - being in the serving account should never be drained, always invested properly and always passed in care of the next youngest living error" }, { "id": "t1_on6iurk", "author": "/u/Adventurous_Dog_7755", "updated": "2026-05-22T03:25:17+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on6iurk/", "content": "I feel the same way—it really does feel like a cheat code. The real problem is that people constantly fall for the systemic traps working against them. I genuinely feel for the younger generation; from a very young age, they are fed an endless stream of marketing, algorithmic content, and social media telling them they should be living a lifestyle of overspending. They are forced to constantly compare themselves to the top 1%.\n Building wealth is simple, but it’s not easy. Based on what you said, it sounds like you front-loaded your investments, allowing compounding to do the heavy lifting. My only hope is that your children eventually grasp that same concept." }, { "id": "t1_on6j7c1", "author": "/u/happytoreadreddit", "updated": "2026-05-22T03:27:45+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on6j7c1/", "content": "Aside from the obvious point that the vast majority of households don’t make $400k, you are under appreciating how lucky you are in just about every other way. Maybe you didn’t have an extended family with significant addiction problems, maybe neither of you got cancer or were seriously injured taking you out of the earning game. Didn’t get randomly caught up in the legal system. Didnt have a messy divorce. Didn’t have a kid with health challenges or special needs.\n Aside from your top 3% income, you likely had to have a lot of other things happen to go right to get where you are. Dice rolls.\n I say this as someone in your exact position: age, marital status, income and net worth. But some self awareness will go a long way for you. Know how lucky you are and how rare it is for so much to happen to go right." }, { "id": "t1_on6j8ys", "author": "/u/Hodlermama", "updated": "2026-05-22T03:28:05+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on6j8ys/", "content": "OPs point on just grinding and saving is just so true.\n Most folks once they get in a position of stability, seem to be focussed on all the material acquisitions to signal to peer group about how they are doing better than the person next to them. First it's the expensive looking clothes,then the car, then the house in a better suburb, then the private school - the list just goes on.\n Crazy 🤣" }, { "id": "t1_on70f0h", "author": "/u/Zanna-K", "updated": "2026-05-22T05:36:54+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on70f0h/", "content": "I mean, you were earning $450-500k by in the 2010s - that is a very high household income. In 2015 that would have placed you in the top 1% of household income in the United States. Given that that the US was (is?) on of the wealthiest nations even on a per capita basis, that would place you in the very top of the elite globally, outside of the truly MEGA wealthy that gain and lose the equivalent of your entire retirement account from one minute to the next.\n You were also investing during a period of insane asset appreciation across the board. If the 80's and 90's were the best time to have bought a house then post 2008 would have been the best time to be investing.\n I'm not trying to disparage you in any way, I'm just trying to point out that your situation isn't actually that common" }, { "id": "t1_on7kxcf", "author": "/u/Vivid-Koala-6459", "updated": "2026-05-22T08:31:10+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on7kxcf/", "content": "Invest wisely, live life fully and make sure the kids understand and respect the value of money. Give your inheritance in your lifetime and both you and they will find joy in your hard earned $$’s. Well done." }, { "id": "t1_on7qpbo", "author": "/u/Complete_Budget_8770", "updated": "2026-05-22T09:22:42+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on7qpbo/", "content": "OP did well. They are not the only ones. I know a couple in their early 50s. He pulls $250k/yr. She pulls in $65k a year (at one point working at Panda Express). Wife is great with money management and spotting real estate deals. They own 6 homes (5 of 6 have been paid off) acquired from 2005 to now.\n They have NW around $5mil. Dual high income is not the only way there. Keep dry powder and use it when opportunities arise.\n There are so many comments saying OP was just lucky and only if you were this lucky could you reach $5mil +. Not True." }, { "id": "t1_on8bs2m", "author": "/u/FozFate", "updated": "2026-05-22T11:57:14+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on8bs2m/", "content": "So here's a question: is this only possible in America?\n As an American, I, narcissistically, think if we aren't the only place, we are the most likely place. That's why we have had a stream of immigrants for hundreds of years. We still have people who risk everything, give up everything at home to arrive here for the opportunity.\n I would also guess that this sort of story happens in immigrant families. Maybe it takes a generation or two more, but I fell like it's happening." }, { "id": "t1_onaa97h", "author": "/u/greg7gkb", "updated": "2026-05-22T17:43:58+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/onaa97h/", "content": "I think you're undervaluing your level of discipline. Even with high paying jobs, this is still a very long time to have maintained really strong financial practices. Congrats, and give yourself a big high-five because this is a wonderful accomplishment!" }, { "id": "t1_on3dhkk", "author": "/u/AltAmericanCarnage", "updated": "2026-05-21T17:21:59+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on3dhkk/", "content": "$90M end state seems like kind of optimistic growth doesn't it..what's your spend?" }, { "id": "t1_on3dlx5", "author": "/u/Individual_Section_6", "updated": "2026-05-21T17:22:30+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on3dlx5/", "content": "You're earning over 200k a year each, so that's lucrative to me unless you're in a HCOL area. I hear you though. I'm 44 and single and only earn 95k in a medium to LCOL area and have about 750k saved up and could retire off the interest right now since it's all in stocks that have been doing well for me. I have no debt and low expenses.\n Also, generational wealth is earned and can easily be lost if careless. There's no guarantee your kids will be wealthy and they could easily blow through all your savings. It can't be maintained if your offspring are careless and can't build their own careers." }, { "id": "t1_on3e2qc", "author": "/u/pacman2081", "updated": "2026-05-21T17:24:32+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on3e2qc/", "content": "Your template works well for folks who started in the 1990s. Simple mid tier corporate jobs with living below your means, investing in the stock market and with no unfortunate events like divorce, chronic illness easily leads to FIRE." }, { "id": "t1_on3fues", "author": "/u/Key_Cheetah7982", "updated": "2026-05-21T17:32:17+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on3fues/", "content": "In retrospect, it was just so.....easy? I mean, we did work hard, but I don't feel like we did anything that couldn't be done by most people.\n Probably correct but there’s not multiple 200k jobs for every couple regardless.\n We can work hard and save but there’s always a bit of luck." }, { "id": "t1_on3g2se", "author": "/u/tthhaattss", "updated": "2026-05-21T17:33:18+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on3g2se/", "content": "Take pride in what you accomplished for yourself and for your family! Your kids will deserve every bit of it in the future regardless of what people say out there. I’m working towards that same accomplishment and Lord willing my kids won’t have to worry about the things I did growing up." }, { "id": "t1_on3h8it", "author": "/u/Important-Trifle-411", "updated": "2026-05-21T17:38:24+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on3h8it/", "content": "It was a combination of hard work and luck. Wouldn’t work without both components" }, { "id": "t1_on3hag1", "author": "/u/Coloredgemstone1316", "updated": "2026-05-21T17:38:38+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on3hag1/", "content": "Because a lot of people are really scared to stare at it head on, so they save themselves the anxiety and just go with can't." }, { "id": "t1_on3k8b8", "author": "/u/Particular_Maize6849", "updated": "2026-05-21T17:51:42+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on3k8b8/", "content": "I'm guessing we will die with millions as well but we don't have children nor will we ever have any unless we end up adopting for some reason late in life (i.e. if a relative dies or something and leaves orphans)." }, { "id": "t1_on3kkyl", "author": "/u/Possible-Nectarine80", "updated": "2026-05-21T17:53:13+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on3kkyl/", "content": "Easy? Maybe for some. If it was actually easy, then more people would probably be making $200k+. That's not how life works or how humans are built.\n I have a similar story. I guess it was harder for me but got the same results. Though I did get one piece of advice from my father, which was to contribute to a retirement plan and don't count on SS being around when you retire. So, that helped with the savings and the magic of compound interest." }, { "id": "t1_on3kn89", "author": "/u/Tha_NexT", "updated": "2026-05-21T17:53:30+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on3kn89/", "content": "Eh, some people would also say that this playbook is made for your generation. Newer ones won't have it that "easy".\n Also landing a 200k job is also not easy. All in all this post is bait or actually real boomer material....both have the same vibe" }, { "id": "t1_on3m38b", "author": "/u/holymolyitsclay", "updated": "2026-05-21T17:59:51+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on3m38b/", "content": "Cheat code for life is how I describe the fire movement to people who may be uninformed. It really does feel like it, especially once the “hard work” is complete." }, { "id": "t1_on3my4k", "author": "/u/moneyman74", "updated": "2026-05-21T18:03:41+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on3my4k/", "content": "Congrats! I don't think its that common to have 2 $200k+ incomes but makes for some nice options!" }, { "id": "t1_on3nem3", "author": "/u/Any_Resist_9800", "updated": "2026-05-21T18:05:47+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on3nem3/", "content": "I think any time in the last 10,000 years of human market evolution this wouldn’t have been possible. I’m just hoping it lasts another 50 years of global growth and stability at least." }, { "id": "t1_on3oaxt", "author": "/u/RaiseCertain8916", "updated": "2026-05-21T18:09:51+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on3oaxt/", "content": "> Looking at future projections, assuming no major market correction, and assuming we live into our 80's or 90's, we will leave our kids with tens of millions of dollars.\n Assuming you guys aren't planning to go into bonds, 1 market crash and 40-60% of your net worth could be removed. Now it will recover however whether your kids hold onto that is another question. The other issue is say you lose half your net worth and only have 3-4 million in assets. Depending on whether you live in a HCOL area and how many kids you have, but that may only be enough for college and a house.\n Which is a great safety net but not generational wealth" }, { "id": "t1_on3obdy", "author": "/u/gurney__halleck", "updated": "2026-05-21T18:09:54+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on3obdy/", "content": "fire is fringe amongst ppl with good paying jobs because it's the ultimate delayed gratification.\n most people view it as a binary choice between austerity and indulgence.\n it doesn't have to be. I traveled to 30 countries while saving 30% of a middle class income. you just need to pick what's important to you, spend there and cut elsewhere." }, { "id": "t1_on3p1su", "author": "/u/253-build", "updated": "2026-05-21T18:13:15+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on3p1su/", "content": "Similar boat, but smaller salaries. Too many people think that consumption creates happiness." }, { "id": "t1_on3q8hj", "author": "/u/DeadFacesInMyPocket", "updated": "2026-05-21T18:18:40+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on3q8hj/", "content": "Key thing here was that you started investing "in the mid-90s".\n Lucky you." }, { "id": "t1_on3s9cx", "author": "/u/reddituser889088", "updated": "2026-05-21T18:27:53+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on3s9cx/", "content": "35k then is about 71k now. Thats the entry level pay for my specific field but it’s definitely above average pay for most people, let alone for entry level. You’re assuming it’s normal to find a decent, slightly above average job that has the opportunity for growth (it’s not just hard work but also having the opportunity)\n I do get what you mean though, people are misinterpreting. You’re not necessarily saying everyone can give their kids tens of millions, you’re saying that just by living within your means and allocating a percent of your income every paycheck, you’ve built a comfort for your kids and potentially bloodline without an “exorbitant” income. The point isn’t how much since that can look different for everyone." }, { "id": "t1_on3ueza", "author": "/u/trader_dennis", "updated": "2026-05-21T18:37:49+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on3ueza/", "content": "In fifty years 10 million will not be near what it is today." }, { "id": "t1_on3ugnj", "author": "/u/Cloud2987", "updated": "2026-05-21T18:38:02+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on3ugnj/", "content": "My parents bought an apartment building for $250k in 1990 and today it’s worth $8m. Sometimes people just get lucky." }, { "id": "t1_on3vxex", "author": "/u/skcuf2", "updated": "2026-05-21T18:44:46+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on3vxex/", "content": "You probably didn't create generational wealth. You most likely created a nice inheritance. I guess structure is the determining factor here." }, { "id": "t1_on3xho5", "author": "/u/MikeT8314", "updated": "2026-05-21T18:51:54+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on3xho5/", "content": "I have a very lucky dual income and spending it all on “us” seems extremely selfish when I fully realize we are in a privileged situation. So I definitely plan on a max 3.5% draw and ideally 2.5-3%.\n This all assumes we keep our health and can continue working. For me/us i am not looking to retire early but will slow down at some point. Orobably in my early 60s. I am also building towards a side gig with a product launch in maybe 5 yrs. I don’t expect that to be a big windfall but i love doing it. So hopefully i can fully transition to it down the road.\n For me i look forward to working because i want to and not have to. This is freedom to me versus leaving my work early. Just knowing i can is liberating." }, { "id": "t1_on3y64r", "author": "/u/PWCIV", "updated": "2026-05-21T18:55:01+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on3y64r/", "content": "It is easy but be honest. Do you have a solid network of true friends? Im asking seriously because i think these kind of careers/traits make this difficult" }, { "id": "t1_on4378a", "author": "/u/JJ_Was_Taken", "updated": "2026-05-21T19:18:26+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on4378a/", "content": "Looking at the comments, you're in the wrong fire sub. You'll get better responses in chubby or fat." }, { "id": "t1_on4476w", "author": "/u/Nomromz", "updated": "2026-05-21T19:23:10+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on4476w/", "content": "I'm guessing at your timeline here, but if you graduated in the late 90s, it sounds like you were early 20s then. So early 40s would have been late 2010s. A HHI of $400k in the late 2010s is probably close to the top 1-2% of households. Is it really that crazy for a top 1-2% household income to manage to save generational wealth?" }, { "id": "t1_on45h5q", "author": "/u/Parsnips_all_day", "updated": "2026-05-21T19:29:11+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on45h5q/", "content": "You had a HI of $400k. That’s it there." }, { "id": "t1_on467cr", "author": "/u/burnbabyburn11", "updated": "2026-05-21T19:32:36+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on467cr/", "content": "the conditions of the 90s when you entered the workforce were amongst the best, most favorable conditions for wealth creation humans have ever seen in history.\n Timing absolutely helped you. You have to do the right stuff to roll the dice, and you happened to get a great roll on the dice, and congrats.\n The housing market you entered, the job market you entered, the value of your degree, these are all much worse for working people today to grow generational wealth in one generation like you did. The conditions are much harsher now, so it's not as easy for younger people today as it was for you." }, { "id": "t1_on47m5e", "author": "/u/Icy-Firefighter-7012", "updated": "2026-05-21T19:39:21+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on47m5e/", "content": "It’s not ”hard”but you had good career timing if you had a salary position in the late 90s. State schools were also a lot cheaper, and so was housing and childcare. Since you didn’t mention healthcare costs, I assume you have also been lucky in your own personal health, as well as in the health of your immediate family. So yes, it wasn’t hard. But you also had a lot of life luck on your side, and a great number of people just simply get dealt harder cards." }, { "id": "t1_on49w3y", "author": "/u/L0B0-Lurker", "updated": "2026-05-21T19:50:00+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on49w3y/", "content": "It's hard to spend frugally when rent consumes >50% of your post-tax income." }, { "id": "t1_on4aj95", "author": "/u/Ill_Savings_8338", "updated": "2026-05-21T19:52:59+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on4aj95/", "content": "I am not saying it is all luck, but luck / happenstance does play a big role.\n How many times did you get laid off in a bad market? How many injuries caused you to have to quit work? The jobs that allowed you to get this far, are they achievable by anyone without a degree, and are there enough for everyone in the country to get them? Did you buy your house at a good time, or did it devalue for 10 years and you couldnt afford to move or sell it, did an uninsured motorist total your car and you had to replace it out of pocket? etc etc\n Yes, you didn't do anything crazy to reach your wealth, but it is not an easy button that everyone can hit, and you got lucky along the way." }, { "id": "t1_on4oex1", "author": "/u/Few_Ebb6156", "updated": "2026-05-21T20:58:09+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on4oex1/", "content": "Congratulations! Now maybe go back and look at the forks in the road where you could have made some serious mistakes or hit some serious pitfalls: greed, divorce, losing a job and not getting rehired, infidelity, bad investment advice, overspending, substance abuse, and maybe 10 others. You and your wife probably have a lot of common sense, emotional intelligence, integrity, work ethic, patience and good values but this all may not be as common as you think and a lot of times it is passed down from your parents. You lived the American dream by working hard, being smart and using the 8th wonder of the world, the time value of money. Congratulations and now I guess you need to teach it to the next generation" }, { "id": "t1_on4t2vv", "author": "/u/Dangerous-Amphibian2", "updated": "2026-05-21T21:21:12+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on4t2vv/", "content": "You’re forgetting the part where you weren’t born with a debilitating disease and were born in the richest country on earth and any other potential luck related things. Being healthy physically and mentally isn’t a choice sometimes it’s genetics. Not to discount hard work and probably making sacrifices. Some people have more sacrifices to make though and just can’t do it." }, { "id": "t1_on4uf8p", "author": "/u/IHadTacosYesterday", "updated": "2026-05-21T21:27:58+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on4uf8p/", "content": "You have the ability to delay gratification\n Most of the population on this planet doesn't have this ability" }, { "id": "t1_on4ywwk", "author": "/u/hidintrees", "updated": "2026-05-21T21:51:01+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on4ywwk/", "content": "Fortunate for sure, just staying married is less than 50/50. Having two people able to make career advancements to get to 400k of income is pretty rare. When I think of my fairly large circle of friends in a medium size city I can’t think of more than a few couples where that is the case especially if you excludes those working in a family business. Congratulations because you did find the way and it will benefit your family for many generations." }, { "id": "t1_on5cw0c", "author": "/u/billymumfreydownfall", "updated": "2026-05-21T23:08:21+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on5cw0c/", "content": "Assuming no major market corrections is certainly an odd thought." }, { "id": "t1_on5fuis", "author": "/u/Central09er", "updated": "2026-05-21T23:25:21+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on5fuis/", "content": "I’d love to know what your roles pay now? I can almost guarantee other than that entry level 35k a year role (probably only pays 50k now when adjusted for inflation should be 71k minimum) that none of those roles pay more now and almost guarantee they actually pay less than you made…. With a lot less benefits.\n It’s easy to say that you dont understand when you lived in the golden age and reaped the benefits that just simply aren’t there anymore.\n Edited to add I bet there was some stock options or ESPP that you benefited from also. Also wouldn’t be surprised if you had a pension along with 401k" }, { "id": "t1_on5i06q", "author": "/u/Easy_Paint3836", "updated": "2026-05-21T23:38:00+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on5i06q/", "content": "It was easy for you because you both got lucky. Two VERY well paying jobs. No major setbacks despite living in tumultuous times. And you played your cards right throughout. Not everyone has the willpower nor opportunity you did. I make half of one of your salaries and people tell me I am lucky to make so much. It just worked out for you. Enjoy it and be thankful." }, { "id": "t1_on5jgir", "author": "/u/Any_Pirate_5633", "updated": "2026-05-21T23:46:33+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on5jgir/", "content": "There’s also an enormous difference between what you can save when you’re pulling in $400k a year between the two of you vs even the median household income in the US which is like, $50-60k?\n So yeah, in retrospect, when you are already in the top percent of earners, it is “just easy” not to live paycheck to paycheck and to instead amass an amount of money that will essentially grow larger forever as long as you’re not fiscally an idiot.\n I’m not bitter, by the way, I have also amassed generational wealth in a generation by not spending everything I made in my lucrative career and by being privileged enough to not having any college debt. But I recognize that the math doesn’t work so easy for 80-90% of folks around me." }, { "id": "t1_on5l6gm", "author": "/u/leavingoctober", "updated": "2026-05-21T23:56:50+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on5l6gm/", "content": "Sounds like you made good choices and had a good amount of luck. It’s not easy for everyone." }, { "id": "t1_on5s60m", "author": "/u/vega_9", "updated": "2026-05-22T00:39:07+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on5s60m/", "content": "Easiest way to ruin a kid is to give them everything they want. Best case they get spoiled, worst case they suffer from depression. Look up trustfund kids, most of them are miserable." }, { "id": "t1_on63j2l", "author": "/u/UnderstandingOk9448", "updated": "2026-05-22T01:47:42+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on63j2l/", "content": "It is very difficult for two people, let alone two married people, to make 200K each per year. Then out of those making that much, it is a small minority for those who are frugal. That is why it is a fringe lifestyle.\n One suggestion that I have is to ensure that your wealth becomes generational is to a) pay for kids college and grandkids college (to set them up for success and to b) provide some wealth early on to help with buying a home, get established in their career/business, etc.\n As for a home, I plan on matching every dollar they contribute up to 150K. For retirement, I have accounts setup for each of my two kids. I am contributing extra market gains there. They don't know about it and the annuity will be setup when each one is 55. At 55, they will get this early pension for life. This money will be in addition to money that they will get as a lump sum when I die. The idea here is to spread the wealth and make it generational. This will help them FIRE if they havent already done so by then." }, { "id": "t1_on6a2kt", "author": "/u/creepy-farter", "updated": "2026-05-22T02:27:51+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on6a2kt/", "content": "Not the same income level. But I have to agree.\n We just saved 10-15% consistently, underspent, and paid down debt religiously. And we should have more then we need.\n And I see the balances I never thought I would have, and realize it really wasn’t rocket science. It was just the old slow and steady wins the race." }, { "id": "t1_on6kcrd", "author": "/u/AJuni0103", "updated": "2026-05-22T03:35:52+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on6kcrd/", "content": "I don’t think it’s for everyone that’s for sure.\n I don’t think many people can or want to do it. It wasn’t easy but was tolerable because we were young and we were all doing it." }, { "id": "t1_on78zxh", "author": "/u/ucoocho", "updated": "2026-05-22T06:47:03+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on78zxh/", "content": "Lol to no major market correction" }, { "id": "t1_on88nwg", "author": "/u/Expert_Yam_8210", "updated": "2026-05-22T11:37:41+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on88nwg/", "content": "I mean, I hear you, and I genuinely think this is a great post. But I kinda think the "easy" framing is where a lot of people are gonna check out and stop reading, which is a shame because the actual point you're making is really good.\n The hard part isn't knowing the program. Honestly most people in their 20s have heard "spend less than you make, invest the rest" so many times it's basically background noise at this point. The hard part is the behavioral side of it, and that is genuinely really difficult for a lot of people. Like, impulse control around money is something people straight up struggle with, and it can tank a plan that looks perfect on paper. I've seen it happen. I've done it myself (more times than I'd like to admit)." }, { "id": "t1_on8cgdn", "author": "/u/pdoherty972", "updated": "2026-05-22T12:01:21+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on8cgdn/", "content": "It's insane because it's both so rare to FIRE and so rare to have much to give the next generation. And the stats support it.\n\n- Only 10-15% of Americans inherit $10K or more\n\n- 70% of the ones who inherit have spent it all before leaving anything to the next gen (original gen's grandkids)\n\n- If someone got past that, and left something to the next gen (original gen's grandkids) 90% of the time they'll have spent it before leaving anything." }, { "id": "t1_on8f5gf", "author": "/u/avebelle", "updated": "2026-05-22T12:17:16+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on8f5gf/", "content": "It takes a lot of discipline. Growing up I saved a lot because we weren’t well off. I always had some cash in my pocket because I was frugal. My friends on the other hand spent every penny in their pocket, often borrowing from me. Had I been smarter I could’ve made good money. This was back in the days of parents gave $5 for you to go out for the day to the mall or something. I could see it then and those same friends today continue this lifestyle of living paycheck to paycheck." }, { "id": "t1_on8wj56", "author": "/u/RealSeat2142", "updated": "2026-05-22T13:49:20+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on8wj56/", "content": "Die with zero. Spend your money now, give your kids money now. Splurge on experiences with your family now. Giving your kids your money after you die likely will benefit them the least. My parents did not give me anything in my 20s - 40s. That’s when it could have made the biggest impact on my life. Giving me a million dollars when I am 65 while great does not have the impact $100k would have during my 20s - 40s. Plus they would have gotten to see me enjoying their gift." }, { "id": "t1_on9a0jz", "author": "/u/oldschoolhoops", "updated": "2026-05-22T14:54:08+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on9a0jz/", "content": "Can't agree with this more." }, { "id": "t1_on9bzus", "author": "/u/Fit-Raise7179", "updated": "2026-05-22T15:03:34+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on9bzus/", "content": "If you have a stable marriage, healthy children, don't have to be the caretaker for elderly relatives, don't get disabled or widowed, stay out of trouble, financial success is a pretty easy path of getting educated and being a consistently above average worker in your pursuits.\n If you look at the poor & struggling, it's often the opposite." }, { "id": "t1_on9zcjd", "author": "/u/CapCityPhotos", "updated": "2026-05-22T16:52:45+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on9zcjd/", "content": "I think that you growing up in blue collar, paycheck-to-paycheck type families is exactly what led to this outcome. When most kids get handed tens of millions of dollars, they will not have that same level of drive. Yes, generational wealth can be built in 1 lifetime, but it can also be destroyed in a few years. It's why many wealthy people don't leave extreme sums to their children.\n But yeah the concept is easy. Live on less than you make and invest the difference. Society makes it extremely easy to live beyond your means." }, { "id": "t1_ona41h6", "author": "/u/TheKingOfSwing777", "updated": "2026-05-22T17:14:50+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/ona41h6/", "content": "I would recommend reading Die with Zero. If you wait until you are dead you leave your kids with 10s of millions, they will probably be in their 60s by then and have the best years of their life behind them and their general financial trajectory set, and not to be too morbid, if they make it until then... Probably better to give them hundreds or even just tens of thousands throughout their lives to make things easier or provide incredible memories. College help, dependable car, downpayment on house, send them on awesome honeymoons, etc. Spread it out smaller and more frequently and EARLY for maximum impact!\n You probably have plenty of privileges that might not be obvious to you, even with blue-collar background. It doesn't mean you didn't work hard or make good choices, but luck is a major factor in success as well. You could have easily picked a field that was decimated by the internet or automation, even if it looked promising from the 90s. I also got lucky in this way and could have 10s of millions by old age, but we will give it away before then. Scholarships and familial support being big ones.\n Great job! Don't horde wealth too long!" }, { "id": "t1_ona9u7a", "author": "/u/BeltlineJunkie", "updated": "2026-05-22T17:42:03+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/ona9u7a/", "content": ""They did encourage us to go to college, with some vague notion that we could have better lives than they did. And so we both went to a state school and got bachelor's degrees. "\n "We worked hard and got promoted. "\n It's sometimes crazy to consider everything generational wealth encompasses beyond money. Knowledge, attitude, a safety net. Etc.\n Have a strong work ethic after watching your parents? Passed along wealth.\n Parents knew the value of further education and lifelong learning and curiosity? Passed along wealth.\n Had the time and brain space to think ahead and consider college and career instead of working a job while still in school, taking care of siblings, or worried where you'll be living in a week or two or if abusive parents would beat or feed you? Benefits passed to you from parents.\n It's more complex than this for sure, but it's a component that is overlooked. Good thing we're asked which levels of generational wealth we'd like to be born to beforehand /eyeroll" }, { "id": "t1_onai65c", "author": "/u/OkItem6820", "updated": "2026-05-22T18:20:31+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/onai65c/", "content": "You know that experiment with the marshmallows? The one where you give a kid a marshmallow and tell them that you’re leaving the room but if they haven’t eaten their marshmallow when you get back, they can have a second one? Then they followed the kids up many years later and found that the ones that were able to delay gratification had better overall outcomes.\n I also read that someone did a follow up study to try to better understand why some kids could wait while other kids couldn’t. And it was correlated to a stable home environment.\n Basically, some kids learned that if you are promised something, there’s a good chance it will happen. Others learned that if you don’t eat the marshmallow now, there’s no guarantee that someone won’t come and grab it from you, let alone give you a second one." }, { "id": "t1_onbcgrb", "author": "/u/Beneficial_Quail6017", "updated": "2026-05-22T20:46:32+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/onbcgrb/", "content": "Sooooo many jealous losers in this comment section. Look you dopes, LUCK is more likely to come to those who WORK HARD and have DISCIPLINE. Acting like the OP's luck was something like him winning the lotto is just hilarious.\n Yall losers are going to stay broke forever. Keep blaming the system though!" }, { "id": "t1_ond04io", "author": "/u/Different_Cherry8326", "updated": "2026-05-23T02:32:19+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/ond04io/", "content": "Not to minimize your accomplishments at all, but I think it’s important to keep in mind that everyone else is doing this too. I also expect to leave tens of millions of dollars to my children and I’m hardly an overachiever. When any average joe can do this, prices will rise accordingly. In 30 years, a decent house will be $10 million." }, { "id": "t1_on3bzra", "author": "/u/There_is_no_selfie", "updated": "2026-05-21T17:15:28+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on3bzra/", "content": "[ Removed by Reddit ]" }, { "id": "t1_on3ds6j", "author": "/u/Icy_Spinach_4828", "updated": "2026-05-21T17:23:15+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on3ds6j/", "content": "There are two types of people on a dining table.\n When spread a number of dish each, one eats the most delicious one first and then the lesser, other eats the less tasty and keeps the most delicious for later. FIRE is for the one that has the discipline to wait." }, { "id": "t1_on3e917", "author": "/u/Common_economics_420", "updated": "2026-05-21T17:25:18+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on3e917/", "content": "I often have the same thought (more of why don't more people have money as opposed to why don't more FIRE). I don't think of myself as a genius and didn't work particularly hard in college, but still waltzed into a 6 figure salary career and save 35-40% pretty easily.\n Seems like an easily repeatable process. Only reason I could see explaining why people don't do it more often is that they either A) don't care about the long term or B) are just incapable of educating themselves.\n Edit; Though honestly the average person I interact with is a complete moron, so maybe that explains both the issues in getting a good career and the issues with saving." }, { "id": "t1_on3goae", "author": "/u/adaniel65", "updated": "2026-05-21T17:35:55+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on3goae/", "content": "Starting with a 6 figure salary is a very important part of that process." }, { "id": "t1_on3eet8", "author": "/u/Witty-Drama-3187", "updated": "2026-05-21T17:25:59+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on3eet8/", "content": "I always view this as this big structural shift we are going through as a society in terms of managing your own financial future. In the past, excluding the extremely wealthy, pretty much everyone either relied on a pension or just never retired because it wasn't possible.\n Today, the 401k and IRA have become the primary financial stability vehicles for most people. The catch is that you have to take control over those vehicles. You guys did this well early on. Financial/investment literacy is more important than it has ever been, because it is up to the individual to figure it out. It blows my mind how many people in my age group just have no plan whatsoever for their financial future.\n Good work.\n As you know, it will be critical to now educate your children so they can manage the $$ effectively and do a lot of the same stuff you did." }, { "id": "t1_on3ek1v", "author": "/u/AZJHawk", "updated": "2026-05-21T17:26:37+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on3ek1v/", "content": "Make sure you impart your experiences on your kids and teach them the importance of living below their means. Generational wealth usually only lasts a generation or two before it is squandered.\n I’ve seen it several times in my life at various stages of decay through friends and acquaintances. The first generation builds the wealth, the second generation preserves the wealth. The third generation squanders the wealth. The fourth generation is left holding the bag." }, { "id": "t1_on3eqas", "author": "/u/beanbean81", "updated": "2026-05-21T17:27:23+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on3eqas/", "content": "What, like it’s hard?? lol yes, you are in the very top earning HHI, especially whenever you guys made that amount. 10 years ago it was the top 2%. That’s why you are now wealthy. A lot of people that are in that range don’t FIRE because they want to live large and also give their kids 10s of millions. You just made a different choice." }, { "id": "t1_on3fh1v", "author": "/u/Primary_Excuse_7183", "updated": "2026-05-21T17:30:39+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on3fh1v/", "content": "It’s hard because you’re swimming against the current of a multi TRILLION dollar machine that is designed to get you to spend every last penny. engineered by many of the smartest people on the planet.\n Consistency, time in market, and compound interest." }, { "id": "t1_on3g8v6", "author": "/u/Kinnins0n", "updated": "2026-05-21T17:34:03+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on3g8v6/", "content": "Statistically if you do indeed pass on tens of milli to your children they are likely to respect it because they will have been educated by you who saw the transition from scarcity to wealth first-hand. But 1-2 generation down the line will likely see the estate squandered because at a minimum, your children’s children will never once get a first hand experience of scarcity and are highly likely to blow it on their pet project or Porsche.\n But still pretty cool to leave 1-2 generations after you in a spot your parents would never have dreamed of." }, { "id": "t1_on3hr8j", "author": "/u/Due_Barber_525", "updated": "2026-05-21T17:40:40+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on3hr8j/", "content": "I work hard, I spend less than I make and I struggle to make ends meet. You got lucky with high salaries. That is the key. You become wealthy by being fortunate to be given money. That's it." }, { "id": "t1_on3i02e", "author": "/u/Cheap_Office8701", "updated": "2026-05-21T17:41:45+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on3i02e/", "content": "I’m lucky enough to be on the same boat. Strongly suggest you look into estate planning, otherwise Uncle Sam will take a big chunk of the loot." }, { "id": "t1_on3i17h", "author": "/u/Sea_Bear7754", "updated": "2026-05-21T17:41:53+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on3i17h/", "content": "So two things you had, one you could control one you couldn’t. You controlled your spending and couldn’t control your luck." }, { "id": "t1_on3ib79", "author": "/u/emblemboy", "updated": "2026-05-21T17:43:08+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on3ib79/", "content": "In regards to the thread title though, I've never cared much about generational wealth. I'm still on the path to FIRE, but apart from having a 529 account for my kid, I've never really put much thought into passing them down a shit load of money or something." }, { "id": "t1_on3iiab", "author": "/u/FadedBlackTee2", "updated": "2026-05-21T17:44:03+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on3iiab/", "content": "You were at $400k+ combined income in your 40s. My wife and I are younger and up in the same range of income but you have to appreciate that is a very privileged position that makes this less attainable for the vast majority of people. I’m assuming you were probably saving $100-150k a year+ at that point which is more than most people make in a year.\n New hack unlocked: make a lot of money, work for a long time, save that money, and your kids can have money. I agree with you that it is insane when you look at the dollars involved (and my parents are probably in the same position of going to have $5-10M to leave behind, and it was a single income family and never felt like we were rich) but still." }, { "id": "t1_on3ijk7", "author": "/u/First_Jellyfish_3449", "updated": "2026-05-21T17:44:12+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on3ijk7/", "content": "Did you include your real estate in your 5 million number? How much do you spend each year? Asking because I’m similar age and close" }, { "id": "t1_on3jdvx", "author": "/u/dublindown21", "updated": "2026-05-21T17:47:58+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on3jdvx/", "content": "The next thing to do is to teach your children to build on the foundation you are giving them." }, { "id": "t1_on3jqlp", "author": "/u/Ok_Introduction5606", "updated": "2026-05-21T17:49:31+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on3jqlp/", "content": "You have quite lofty predictions. I inherited wealth but my parents end of life was expensive, off loading their homes was not a windfall of millions. and definitely took a chunk out. Then spread between how they wanted to give their money. It wasn’t 100% to their children.\n Then my life was expensive. I have a solid career that I am planning FIRE and early retirement but on my own I wouldn’t be as wealthy as they were. Stuff is more expensive now - my single home, my college and graduate school. My kids activities and their future college costs etc\n My fire plan is built on leaving quite a nest egg for my children. Part of that is already set aside from my parents. I can see how 5 million for one child by the time they are 40 (should we not have devasting financial crisis) will feel less than what I have.\n I’d expect and hope they make good decisions so some of the wealth remains there to buoy their children - my grandchildren should they have any. But I can see also the wealth may trickle down with each generation unless someone comes along to replenish. That’s generally how it works for wealthy families. Many are now broke 3-4 generations in except for the few famous ones from 100-200 yrs ago" }, { "id": "t1_on3jv68", "author": "/u/SaucyCouch", "updated": "2026-05-21T17:50:05+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on3jv68/", "content": "OP, looking at the comment section is why people don’t make it.\n They can’t or won’t work jobs they don’t love. They can’t resist spending on crap.\n They won’t make it because “the world is against me”\n I’m with you, it’s not that hard, the math is incredibly simple. Most people are just retarded." }, { "id": "t1_on3kljj", "author": "/u/Sunbro888", "updated": "2026-05-21T17:53:18+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on3kljj/", "content": "Y'all also grew up in an objectively easier economy imo." }, { "id": "t1_on3kz0s", "author": "/u/First-Ad-7960", "updated": "2026-05-21T17:54:56+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on3kz0s/", "content": "Frugality and avoiding debt is a path to stability. Wealth building requires income growth. Combining both of these things creates a compounding effect." }, { "id": "t1_on3l1oh", "author": "/u/svfreddit", "updated": "2026-05-21T17:55:15+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on3l1oh/", "content": "Were any of your family hit with a devastating, expensive disease? If not, it wasn’t EASY you were LUCKY (and I’m happy for you)." }, { "id": "t1_on3lcuh", "author": "/u/purple_paper", "updated": "2026-05-21T17:56:37+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on3lcuh/", "content": "I'm curious how you feel about leaving your kids that much money. Depending on what you do, they could have a vastly different experience than you did. How will that affect their lives? Of the trust-funders I know well, most struggle without the guardrails of having to earn their way along.\n I know that it doesn't always turn out that way, but I often joke that I'm going to leave my offspring enough money to ruin lives for generations !" }, { "id": "t1_on3lpq6", "author": "/u/Banned3rdTimesaCharm", "updated": "2026-05-21T17:58:11+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on3lpq6/", "content": "It's easy to save, but it's even easier to spend. That's the difference. People can making 500k a year and still live pay check to pay check. Everything costs money, and can cost more if you let it. Whatever you're paying for, there's always a more expensive version of it." }, { "id": "t1_on3max5", "author": "/u/Fubbalicious", "updated": "2026-05-21T18:00:47+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on3max5/", "content": "70% of wealthy families lose their wealth by the 2nd generation and 90% by the third. If that bothers you, make sure to look into estate planning for wealth preservation and teach your kids and grandkids the importance of how to manage, invest and use such money and the importance to teach the later generation as well. Usually the first gen who builds it are too busy to raise their kids properly and if your lucky, the 2nd gen knows enough on how to maintain it, while the third usually grow spoiled and squander it." }, { "id": "t1_on3na6h", "author": "/u/Scott1291", "updated": "2026-05-21T18:05:12+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on3na6h/", "content": "Congrats to you for working hard and reaching that level. I‘m not sure 5M still count as generational wealth these days.\n And I get it: you projection shows an even rosier picture.\n With rising COL (housing and healthcare mainly), I feel like 1-2M is the bare minimum to even consider some kind of FIRE in most Western countries at least.\n This might be me moving the goal post continuously… and i‘m sure that you and your children keep living frugally, that (foundation of) 5M will last you a long time.\n Stay safe & sane - I‘m rooting for you!" }, { "id": "t1_on3nm5u", "author": "/u/ThereforeIV", "updated": "2026-05-21T18:06:44+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on3nm5u/", "content": ">Thoughts on generational wealth\n Needs context, in America multi generational wealth is more of a myth than reality.\n Even those who actually get to inherit some significant amount of money, by time they do it's too late to change much.\n >My husband and I both grew up in blue collar, paycheck-to-paycheck ... did not teach us financial literacy ... encourage us to go to college, with some vague notion that we could have better lives than they did.\n Well that was the standard line being fed to the masses based in logical fallacies.\n Ideas was this:\n - those few who go to college make more money\n - if more people went to college they would make more\n The fallacy is thinking that it was going to college that resulted in higher income, it wasn't. Havard drop it's are often more successful than Harvard graduate.\n It was the "few" part that resulted in higher income. College was filtering mechanism for "best of the best". It was the eliteness that mattered not the education.\n My engineering degrees are valuable because getting one engineer degrees much less two Engineering degrees is really hard and not many accomplish that.\n Make college easy enough accessible enough for everyone, and they destroyed any value from the paper.\n >And so we both went to a state school and got bachelor's degrees. We both started out with entry-level jobs earning around $35K in the late 90's.\n $35k was decent money in the 90s. In 1999, I think I grossed $12k working full time with some overtime.\n >We worked hard and got promoted.... lived below our means and we saved and invested, mostly in the market, nothing crazy like day-trading.\n Hard work and wise decision making, awesome.\n >By the time we were in our early 40's, we were each earning over $200K per year. We continued to live below our means but not insanely frugally; we splurged when we wanted to.\n That's a good income career path.\n Something the masses and media always miss when really about high income earners is that most of use had to work and sacrifice to get here.\n - In summer 1998, I was making $5.25/hr mopping floors.\n - By beginning of 2000, I'm massing $6/hr on a construction crew.\n - Summer 2003, making $9/hr as a frame carpentry\n - May 2006, start my first engineer job at $45k/yr\n - October 2013, name requested to a project at $105k/yr\n - In 2020, made over $200k income from just working\n Everyone wants to talk about the success, never about how I started mopping floors at a grocery store for a dime above min wage.\n >In our late 40's we retired with over $5M in liquid assets.\n Congrats.\n >Looking at future projections, assuming no major market correction, and assuming we live into our 80's or 90's, we will leave our kids with tens of millions of dollars.\n How old will they be?\n Likes there's something that always seems to get missed in the "multi generational wealth" conversation.\n My dad inherited a third of a house from his father who died at age 91. My dad already owned a paid for house and had been retired himself for many years.\n I own a paid for house, my retirement portfolio is about three times the size of my parents retirement portfolio, and I'm still a few years away from RE. My parents will easily lube another 25-35 years at which time I will have been retired fire 20-30 years.\n Getting an inheritance in my 70s isn't going to change my life anymore than it did for my dad.\n >That is INSANE to me. We have created generational wealth in just one generation.\n Not yet you haven't. You created wealth in one generation. It's that wealth still going to be there three generations from now.\n - Multi generational wealth isn't "we created wealth to leave to our kids"\n - Multi generational wealth is "we created wealth so that children not born yet will experience it"\n That's a significant difference. In America, wealth created by one generation rarely last through the next three generations. (Btw, there are some famous exceptions like the Hilton family; but take the 1,000 most wealthy families from 100-150 years ago and see how many still have significant wealth passed down through the generations).\n >And we did not do it by inventing something or starting a million-dollar company or doing risky investing. We just followed the program: work hard, spend less than you make, invest.\n Most millionaires didn't; most millionaires foods what your and I did: work good income careers, live well below means, and invest wisely.\n >In retrospect, it was just so.....easy? I mean, we did work hard, but I don't feel like we did anything that couldn't be done by most people.\n Exactly correct!!!\n The majority of Americans could become millionaires if they make good decisions.\n >And yet, most people obviously don't do it. It's just mind-blowing to me that we managed to get to a financial position that most people can only dream of, in only one generation, without making any earth-shattering moves. Like we somehow stumbled upon the cheat code for life, but it wasn't even really hidden to begin with.\n I remember having a friend who was regularly paint in facetime about going out, night club, drinks, dinner, etc...; She was having trouble making rent one month. She literally says to me " you don't understand because you're rich" (probably in reference to me owning a home). I replied "I may make more money than you, but I also spend less money than you do; and I worked really hard to get where I'm at".\n In my late teens / early twenties when my friends were out partying; I was delivering pizzas to make enough to cover tuition so I could my like free time studying so I could have an engineering career.\n >It's crazy to me that FIRE is such a fringe lifestyle.\n Well those are two different things.\n - There's maintenance wiser financial decisions so that you are financially successful\n - Then there's the extreme of making significant sacrifices and hard work combined with wise financial decisions so that you financially successful at a much earlier age.\n Everyone can be fit, not everyone can run an Ironman triathlon.\n Don't confuse up a 5k for a marathon.\n To your original question on multi generational wealth (which you seem to lost track of):\n Rockefeller was the richest American of his era, he said the worst thing you can do to your children is leave them money.\n He didn't want his children living their lives on the assumption of getting his money. He wanted his children set up so that they could make their own fortunes without him. Using this philosophy, he actually created one of most successful multi generational wealth stores in American history.\n 150 years later and his hundred of descendants are very wealthy.\n *" Only the man who does not need it, is fit to inherit wealth—the man who would make his own fortune no matter where he started. If an heir is equal to his money, it serves him; if not, it destroys him." -Ayn Rand*" }, { "id": "t1_on3or72", "author": "/u/BrianfromClownDog", "updated": "2026-05-21T18:11:55+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on3or72/", "content": "So you got degrees when college was still affordable, started your lives before home prices exploded, and had six figure incomes stuffing retirement accounts throughout the two most expansive decades in the history of the stock market.\n Yeah, that was easy. Times are clearly much different now." }, { "id": "t1_on3pio4", "author": "/u/ept_engr", "updated": "2026-05-21T18:15:24+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on3pio4/", "content": "It is impressive, but there are a few reality checks:\n\n- It does indeed take "a lifetime" to do. That's not a short period of time.\n- You're still projecting out 30-40 years from today, which means a lot of things could change or go wrong.\n- If you live to 90, your kids may be 60 before they ever see the funds. So they will get to be "old and wealthy" (assuming they live that long) but you've not given them a lifetime of wealth. (I'm not saying that you "should", I'm just pointing out that it's not the same as having wealth from birth).\n- The world will be a lot different place in 30-40 years. It will certainly be far wealthier. So while the the projected future account balances sound wild in today's dollars, they will not be as crazy by the time that day comes. If the market carries your portfolio to those heights, it will carry many other people's as well.\n- Your children or grandchildren may squander what you've accumulated. Then the cycle starts over.\n- Having a great deal of material possessions does not a "great life" make. You have to ask yourself if accumulating money was your goal in life, and if inheriting that money gives your heirs a better life or whether it introduces new challenges or encourages greed instead of generosity." }, { "id": "t1_on3pjiv", "author": "/u/justUseAnSvm", "updated": "2026-05-21T18:15:30+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on3pjiv/", "content": "It looks easy in hindsight, but there's a bunch of filters and selection events you guys survived, without really thinking about what the other outcomes would look like. You need to earn an education, you need to get corporate jobs, you need to like that environment well enough to stay and do well, you need to prioritize saving, minimize spending, and stay healthy enough to work for a long time.\n I have a corporate engineering job now, and it's great, but looking at my peers, even the ones in software, and there are path dependent outcomes. I can't really tell my software friends: "just get a big tech job, work 10 years, and retire" and expect them to be able to do that without years and years of work to get there.\n So in hindsight, it always looks like you guys doing the next reasonable thing, but playing that forward for a random kid graduating high school? You need a person that wants to work corporate jobs, has the capability to succeed if they try, and doesn't get hit by some major life circumstance like having a kid too early, getting stuck in a career field which is replaced by automation, needing treatment for a mental health disorder, or just having a parent get sick and needing to take care of them.\n The past always looks easy because it's concrete, and we under-appreciate all the ways it could have gone but didn't.\n As for the money, I'd consider doing something with the money while you're alive, and worrying less about optimizing for inheritance. After all, if you guys like to your 80s and hopefully 90s, your kids will be inheriting right around the time they are getting social security, and after they've worked careers and earned their own way." }, { "id": "t1_on3q236", "author": "/u/amtcannon", "updated": "2026-05-21T18:17:52+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on3q236/", "content": "If everyone did it the market wouldn’t grow enough for us to nope out. It’s something I think about a lot, because I get to be rich and retire off the back of working stiffs just trying to get by.\n The other side of the coin is that the pension funds and vanguard etc ruin everything. My working life, companies, and the products I buy are all hit by enshitification because everyone needs growth this quarter to satisfy the share holders (our retirement plans).\n My experience is that it’s best to not think too hard about it!" }, { "id": "t1_on3q2dj", "author": "/u/Critical_Bluejay_919", "updated": "2026-05-21T18:17:54+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on3q2dj/", "content": "If your earning 80k+ or 100k+ FIRE should be the default lifestyle. I was pretty frugal through my 20s but still traveled to 20 countries, immigrated to 3 different countries and saved well. I regret not sticking with my high paying job longer as layoffs have now forced me into a low paying role.\n However Im able to support my wife as well with just one income. FIRE is. a no brainer." }, { "id": "t1_on3q3ex", "author": "/u/Calm_Situation_1131", "updated": "2026-05-21T18:18:02+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on3q3ex/", "content": "A lot of hardwork and luck to get dual top 1% income jobs for sure. But incredible luck to have invested into an annualized 15%+ for 10 years for the sp500, when compared to the historical average of 10% yearly." }, { "id": "t1_on3qu6v", "author": "/u/YellooooFever", "updated": "2026-05-21T18:21:25+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on3qu6v/", "content": "There is a downside to leaving your kids too much money.\n Realistically, 1M is the sweet spot to pay for things like college, first car, and helping out on their first home purchase." }, { "id": "t1_on3qupz", "author": "/u/BothNotice7035", "updated": "2026-05-21T18:21:29+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on3qupz/", "content": "When I calculated my FIRE numbers a zillion times before I left the workforce, I opted to avoid using my entire worth. I pulled out the minimum that I’d like to leave as inheritance. If something derails this plan, so be it. But it feels great knowing that’s set aside." }, { "id": "t1_on3r1gu", "author": "/u/intjester-5", "updated": "2026-05-21T18:22:21+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on3r1gu/", "content": "Life is compounding." }, { "id": "t1_on3rd6m", "author": "/u/Uffda01", "updated": "2026-05-21T18:23:50+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on3rd6m/", "content": "You also had 2 jobs paying 200k each..., you were able to pursue opportunities that got you higher and higher salary. I'm 50 and I'm making 150k per year - but that's likely as high as Im going to be able to get, heck just looking at current roles available - if I had to get another job - I'd be looking at a 20-30k paycut (plus have to go into an office).\n That state school education cost you what 4-5 k per year tuition, 4-5k per year room and board and got you a 35k per year job in the 90s - now look what their current tuitions are (I just did - my tuition was 4k per year in 1999- currently its 9k per year, housing was 4000 then, my apartment was 425/mo that same apartment is 1200 etc etc etc) That same job that started out at 32k per year - now starts out at 40k\n you had a partner that saw the value of saving, and had a career of their own that didn't have to be sacrificed for child care, elder care. You didn't have any medical issues to set you back, my current partner is ahead of me in the game, but my previous ones were not.\n It takes a good foundation, a good partner, good opportunities and good luck - not everything you can control yourself to make it happen. Congrats for that" }, { "id": "t1_on3rohi", "author": "/u/Hawkes75", "updated": "2026-05-21T18:25:15+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on3rohi/", "content": "Society drills BUY BUY BUY into our heads from the start, and it doesn't care whether we can afford it or not. Most people don't know any better.\n My chief concern, knowing that my wife and I will leave our kids millions each, is that they didn't grow up lower-middle class like I did, and so their innate appreciation for what's required to build from nothing is absent. I feel I have to make up for it by teaching them financial principles however and whenever I can. And while I hope they use them to their advantage, I'll be dead by then anyway so..." }, { "id": "t1_on3rr0b", "author": "/u/purplecactai", "updated": "2026-05-21T18:25:34+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on3rr0b/", "content": "Aside from how obviously out of touch these boomers are, I wanted to address the topic of generational wealth presented.\n I walked to my first job at 16, saved enough for my first used car to get to my next job that paid a bit more, and then continuing to slowly advance myself. Ive worked warehousing, retail, custumor service, landscaping, carpentry, security, tourism, residential treatment, film editing, wilderness therapy, and am currently working for the state as a caseworker.\n Those jobs and experiences took me all over the country and meeting/working/living-with all different kinds of people. If I had just been given 5 million dollars I would of never had any of that, at least not earned it. Alot of those experiences were frankly very uncomfortable and difficult, but I grew immensly as a person because of them.\n If I had 10 million, there is no WAY I would just give it to my kids. Maybe when they were 40. Ive worked alot with affluent kids in treatment centers and Ive seen how that plays out. Theres no way my kids are going to be some weird aliens without any humility or understanding of the shares struggle most of humanity experiences." }, { "id": "t1_on3shxh", "author": "/u/Revolutionary-Fan235", "updated": "2026-05-21T18:28:58+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on3shxh/", "content": "There's no game if people don't spend and work until they can't work anymore. You couldn't FIRE if everyone had your mindset to FIRE." }, { "id": "t1_on3tifz", "author": "/u/Sharp-Sandwich-9779", "updated": "2026-05-21T18:33:38+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on3tifz/", "content": "It’s hard because practising “living below your means” is easier said than done for most of the population. Furthermore not everyone starts with 0 debt and is able to make $200K. I think that’s when most people lose hope (and discipline). For you, it’s a value and so you did everything to live your values. Congrats. Enjoy!" }, { "id": "t1_on3vu5d", "author": "/u/Soda-Popinski-", "updated": "2026-05-21T18:44:21+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on3vu5d/", "content": "It takes disciplin to really save money. Most people dont have it." }, { "id": "t1_on3w2pb", "author": "/u/gerardchiasson3", "updated": "2026-05-21T18:45:27+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on3w2pb/", "content": "I'm not sure if you realize all the sacrifices you made. After a while, sacrifices become second nature and you accept the downsides of your choices without fully realizing it. For example, impact on health, mental health, social life, etc." }, { "id": "t1_on3xff0", "author": "/u/melorenato", "updated": "2026-05-21T18:51:37+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on3xff0/", "content": "The hardest part is that your kids will benefit more from it than you.\n Sometimes i do some projections and feel sad thinking that I might get rich someday, but in my 70s... so... whatever.\n Anyways at least FIRE should give me peace of mind if lost my job or something during my good years. That's already good enough." }, { "id": "t1_on3xvzo", "author": "/u/Independent-Deal7502", "updated": "2026-05-21T18:53:44+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on3xvzo/", "content": "You're getting so much hate but I agree with you 100%.\n Its like you have a good income, but the leap from good income to generational wealth seems like it should be harder, because lots of people have a good income.\n It makes me wonder why my parents weren't able to do more given they had high paying jobs." }, { "id": "t1_on423ue", "author": "/u/roflmao13", "updated": "2026-05-21T19:13:16+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on423ue/", "content": "It is easy as you had a 400k household income...that is not typical american. Things are faster paced now in terms of jobs. Jobs that were thought to be safe/lucrative are becoming less so. Sure other things are taking its place, but trends change a lot quicker and basics are a lot more expensive." }, { "id": "t1_on440l4", "author": "/u/Sure-Appointment-877", "updated": "2026-05-21T19:22:16+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on440l4/", "content": "Congratulations on your fantastic achievement.\n The challenge is to insil the same drive and discipline in your kids without them having the blue collar background that you did...\n We are not as successful as you in terms of outcome ($ wealth), but have a very similar story in terms of background and career choices, and the thing we spend time thinking about is how to ensure our kids have the work hard attitude and drive that was instilled in us because of our blue collar backgrounds (i worked in my dads shop and on his building sites during some holidays for zero/little pay) but was given a private school education along with life education around the benefits of hard work..." }, { "id": "t1_on449qz", "author": "/u/Substantial_Jelly545", "updated": "2026-05-21T19:23:30+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on449qz/", "content": "Gold" }, { "id": "t1_on44gdi", "author": "/u/MeatofKings", "updated": "2026-05-21T19:24:23+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on44gdi/", "content": "I think too many people view FIRE like climbing Mount Whitney or hiking the Appalachian Trail, not something they realistically believe they can do. Rather, they should think of it like eating 300 less calories per day to maintain a healthy weight. Live beneath your means, invest the difference, and build wealth. And tragically, only a small % of wealth heirs build it for the next generation. Most squander it." }, { "id": "t1_on46w5s", "author": "/u/stilldialing", "updated": "2026-05-21T19:35:54+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on46w5s/", "content": "I wouldn't downplay the choices you made to set you up for FIRE. Anyone in theory could do it, yes. But it took endurance, discipline, and sacrifice for you to get here.\n Would you have picked or stayed in a corporate job if it wasn't for the money? If not, then that was a tradeoff someone else might not have made.\n I work a corporate job but i often think about friends in the arts, non-profit fields, or even government jobs. At some point their decisions led them to pursue art, impact, or a safer job over money. Those choices hurt or delayed their path to FIRE relative to folks in this thread. So in that sense you should feel exceptional. You earned this!" }, { "id": "t1_on474hn", "author": "/u/Remote_Barnacle_695", "updated": "2026-05-21T19:37:01+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on474hn/", "content": "I'm in a similar place as OP, but on a nonprofit salary. I feel incredibly lucky to have had people in my 20s who encouraged me to invest and who made sure I understood compound interest. And in my mind it was just that, pure luck to have the info and encouragement at the right time." }, { "id": "t1_on480ef", "author": "/u/Ahab1248", "updated": "2026-05-21T19:41:14+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on480ef/", "content": "Most of the comments I see here clowning about how obviously easy this is if you just make 400k a year.\n The other thing you are missing is that 10s of millions in 30 years is likely not generational wealth, if you have multiple kids this amount will be split multiple ways and people have blown through fortunes much larger than this.\n Now if they share your money values, they should be good to go. But that is far from certain" }, { "id": "t1_on487vu", "author": "/u/wholewheatie", "updated": "2026-05-21T19:42:13+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on487vu/", "content": "don't sell yourself short. A lot of people can't hack it long term at corporate, either because they hate the corporate environment or other reasons. so saying "we always had corporate jobs" is a big accomplishment" }, { "id": "t1_on48fpd", "author": "/u/RelevantPrinciple693", "updated": "2026-05-21T19:43:14+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on48fpd/", "content": "Ok, my husband (61) and I (60) have a combined income of around 200k. Both dirt poor in our 20’s, grad school, starting a business, etc. Did not begin making a decent income until our 30s. Now have three kids in college. $3 million in our retirement accounts, with college funds in a separate account We began maxing out our retirement contributions as soon as we could. Had them on auto-pilot with the bank, so never even saw those funds. All in the S&P 500 and ignored it. For years. Just started peeking a couple of years ago. We will both retire at the end of the year, no debt - mortgage paid off (home valued at about 900k, paid $250k for it in 1997), 2 vehicles fully paid for, don’t carry credit card balance.\n We plan to travel a lot, but we do expect to be able to leave a significant chunk to our boys. It feels really good." }, { "id": "t1_on4908u", "author": "/u/AussieMav1208", "updated": "2026-05-21T19:45:54+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on4908u/", "content": "I have a doctoral degree and my husband has a master’s. We went to top universities and graduated in the tops of our classes. We each make 6 figures annually, but less than $200k. It’s not “easy” to make that much. Add in daycare costing $2800 a month for ONE kid, and things are different now. My parents paid about $1000 per month in the 90s for THREE kids" }, { "id": "t1_on49xgz", "author": "/u/Kuildeous", "updated": "2026-05-21T19:50:11+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on49xgz/", "content": "Living below our means is such a game-changer. Our assets aren't anywhere near yours, but we're pretty happy with what we have. We'll likely leave something for our niblings, but we're also working on improving our spending--exactly because we've gone decades living below our means.\n It'd be great to teach this to others. After we retired early and evaluated what we did right and what we should've done better, we conveyed this to our niblings. They're still in their 20s or younger, so they have plenty of time, but we have been pushing them to open a Roth IRA--at a minimum! And hopefully they'll get it in their heads that they would be better off not keeping up with the Joneses. Living for yourself is so much more satisfying." }, { "id": "t1_on4axfx", "author": "/u/Perennial18", "updated": "2026-05-21T19:54:49+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on4axfx/", "content": "I wonder if the “Trump Accounts” that invest in index funds for newborns will help more people understand the cheat code." }, { "id": "t1_on4b1bd", "author": "/u/jalopkoala", "updated": "2026-05-21T19:55:19+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on4b1bd/", "content": "As a man of 42, I would also add that you started in the late 90s. Early 2000s I was working part time in college (tuition covered by scholarships) and paying rent on a one bedroom in downtown Chicago all for myself.\n I feel so bad for anyone starting their professional life today." }, { "id": "t1_on4b4fl", "author": "/u/HelenHuntsUpperLip", "updated": "2026-05-21T19:55:43+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on4b4fl/", "content": "Assuming no major market correction*" }, { "id": "t1_on4eikc", "author": "/u/jk10021", "updated": "2026-05-21T20:11:26+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on4eikc/", "content": "Congrats to you! I love hearing financial success stories. Good incomes definitely helped you, but you’re 100% right, the key is spending less than you make at whatever income level one is at. Invest the difference. Start in your 20s and be amazed when you’re 45-50." }, { "id": "t1_on4g19z", "author": "/u/josephinesbehavior2", "updated": "2026-05-21T20:18:30+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on4g19z/", "content": "That’s not generational wealth. It’s shirtsleeves to shirtsleeves in three generations wealth. Generational wealth is family office dynastic wealth" }, { "id": "t1_on4hwy4", "author": "/u/CycleOLife", "updated": "2026-05-21T20:27:18+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on4hwy4/", "content": "My parents were blue collar workers. Neither of them made combined what I did right out of community college. They had no passed down generational wealth. They learned about investing when I was about 10. Prior to that they worked to pay off their 70 acre “farm “ in 10 years. They just lived within their means. By end of life they had built up over $1M in assets. They changed the trajectory of our family tree in one generation." }, { "id": "t1_on4lg01", "author": "/u/ToJ85", "updated": "2026-05-21T20:43:58+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on4lg01/", "content": "First, two people making 200k isn't that accessible for most people. You are maybe not top1%, but top 5 easy.\n If you have "too much money" I would suggest give an "early inheritance" and pay the kids a small condos. No rent/mortgage is a cheat code to build wealth, and you'll be able to see how they act with at least a part of your heritance." }, { "id": "t1_on4lrfz", "author": "/u/ididitFIway", "updated": "2026-05-21T20:45:29+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on4lrfz/", "content": "I do recognize some luck in my career choices; getting into software development at the right time, even in a very traditional insurance company, was undoubtedly my best financial move. I get that. While I sometimes feel like I'm coasting in my current role, I did first have to prove myself. I had to put in the work and the hours: the weekend releases, the digging into the code to find issues, making myself dependable to multiple areas, and a mentor to others, volunteering for projects, and more.\n But it could have gone the other way. I could not have put in the work, been content with a lesser place in the performance ranking or just completely flaked and not ever been able to hold down a job. Or stayed in my vastly underpaid previous position and not ever taken a risk on the current one.\n Nothing in my upbringing particularly suggested amazing success, though not really any bad raising to lead to inevitable failure either. Some luck, a lot of hard work got me to where I am now." }, { "id": "t1_on4ndrn", "author": "/u/Rare-Lawfulness-7492", "updated": "2026-05-21T20:53:13+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on4ndrn/", "content": "Did you achieve this in the USA?" }, { "id": "t1_on4ogao", "author": "/u/klaxon4reason", "updated": "2026-05-21T20:58:20+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on4ogao/", "content": "The most important part of this is to live below your means. Invest early and regularly with any left over discretionary money. Invest for the long term. This exactly what I advised my kids as they started their work life." }, { "id": "t1_on4qlib", "author": "/u/LetsDiscussFrogs", "updated": "2026-05-21T21:08:49+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on4qlib/", "content": "It sounds like you and your husband have worked hard and executed brilliantly on the things you can control. I think it is pretty rare to do spectacularly well without hard work, but I think results can vary quite a bit even with hard work because of uncontrollables that sometimes have the cumulative impact of being force multipliers and other times have the cumulative effect of being force subtractors.\n What jumps out to me is the fields you chose in college… I very well could be biased, but I think there is an element of luck in actually making a good decision about this at 18… and on that decision continuing prove lucrative as the world evolves. If you don’t mind me asking, how did you and your husband arrive at your decisions for what to study?\n To draw some contrast from my own story: it sounds like I probably had a more privileged upbringing than you (albeit still solidly middle class). I was a very strong student in HS and college, but didn’t have any clear direction/strategy for life and work after college. The mentality in my family growing up was that things would pretty much work out so long as I worked hard, so my focus in college was simple: focus on things that interested me, and get good grades, which I did. In hindsight, I wish I knew to be more strategic in terms of my exact major, which school I attended, and ultimate career aspirations, but I didn’t know any better, and, more importantly, didn’t know that I didn’t know. Hell, the job I do today is something that I had no idea existed until grad school.\n I honestly don’t know if my story reinforces or undermines your sentiment that anyone who works hard ought to be able to succeed and amass wealth. On the one hand, things have worked out pretty well. I am comfortable, poised to retire in my mid 50s. On the other hand, the wealth I am accumulating is probably not enough to be considered “generational,” and I can envision decision changes that could have moved me closer to that trajectory than where I sit today…. If only I knew at the time, or had the dumb luck of pursuing my academic interests in a manner that happened to have stronger job prospects." }, { "id": "t1_on4r2r1", "author": "/u/Varathien", "updated": "2026-05-21T21:11:10+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on4r2r1/", "content": "By the time we were in our early 40's, we were each earning over $200K per year.\n Not everyone can do this. You're either smarter/more talented than most, harder-working than most, or luckier than most. Possibly a combination of all three.\n https://www.census.gov/library/publications/2025/demo/p60-286.html\n The median US household income is $83,730. Your household income is over $400k.\n The part where you lived within your means and invested? Yes, anyone with a reasonable amount of knowledge and discipline can do that. But most people don't have as much income to invest." }, { "id": "t1_on4r81t", "author": "", "updated": "2026-05-21T21:11:54+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on4r81t/", "content": "[deleted]" }, { "id": "t1_on4sfds", "author": "/u/csmikkels", "updated": "2026-05-21T21:17:52+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on4sfds/", "content": "Don’t underestimate education. Your choice to even read “Investing for Dummies” and have a curiosity on the subject is unique.\n I’ve asked fellow 40 year olds what their return has been on the 401K and they have no idea what I’m talking about.\n I also known 80 year olds that don’t understand inflation and think all debt is bad.\n The one thing we can all learn from actual multi generation wealthy families is the planning but mostly the knowledge transfer they give their kids on how and why assets are structured and their responsibility to continue it." }, { "id": "t1_on4u8ch", "author": "/u/midwstchnk", "updated": "2026-05-21T21:27:00+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on4u8ch/", "content": "You got lucky with 40 years of declining interest rates. Im not flaming or hating. Its the truth. People starting out now or 5 yrs ago are in a worse place due to secular low in rates in 2020" }, { "id": "t1_on4ufav", "author": "/u/BlueMountainCoffey", "updated": "2026-05-21T21:27:58+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on4ufav/", "content": "OP: “I hope this post does not come off as out of touch”\n Also OP: “We make $400K per year”" }, { "id": "t1_on4vtou", "author": "/u/Dependent-Panic-9457", "updated": "2026-05-21T21:35:07+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on4vtou/", "content": "I think you need to have a certain amount of insight / intelligence/ awareness that probably most people don’t have. You also need application or drive.\n In my mind the two go together: you see, really see, how it is, and how you can fix it with the means available and so you do. You need that awareness.\n I suspect that you also need to be either extremely lucky, not to encounter any major setbacks, or have massive fortitude that gets you through them whilst remaining on task at all times." }, { "id": "t1_on4w5zt", "author": "/u/Far_Flow1966", "updated": "2026-05-21T21:36:53+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on4w5zt/", "content": "Living below your means is a lot easier to do when your means are over $400k/year lmao. I’m happy for you but you didn’t “follow the program”, you struck gold." }, { "id": "t1_on4wfmw", "author": "/u/ChevyKid_607", "updated": "2026-05-21T21:38:15+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on4wfmw/", "content": "I've worked for several families cursed with generational wealth. The children of the original "makers" have been so spoiled, self-destructive, and arrogant. Its an awful thing to do to a child. And entirely a choice.\n Another very successful CEO friend told me that they sat their kids down amd told them that each kid would inherit $1M to be used for perhaps a home, grad school, their kids education. They see what I see: inherited money past a certain point creates serious problems in future generations." }, { "id": "t1_on4xroa", "author": "/u/Mario-X777", "updated": "2026-05-21T21:45:07+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on4xroa/", "content": "It is like in nature - parents do take care of their young ones. And some of them have good parents and good support to grow, while another ones are not so lucky, as their parents are not adapted to providing sufficiently or got injured or even caught by the predators\n Same with humans - some parents give it all for their family, some of them blow everything on drugs or gambling" }, { "id": "t1_on509s8", "author": "/u/nickleback_official", "updated": "2026-05-21T21:58:02+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on509s8/", "content": "Care to elaborate?" }, { "id": "t1_on50nv3", "author": "/u/FrostedGalaxy", "updated": "2026-05-21T22:00:06+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on50nv3/", "content": "$35k in 1997 is $72k now btw" }, { "id": "t1_on5411m", "author": "/u/Patient-Brief-9713", "updated": "2026-05-21T22:18:26+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on5411m/", "content": "This post is absolutely eye-rolling. Yeah, you are incredibly out of touch high earners, Sure, it's "just so easy" for everyone to become millionaires, why doesn't everyone do it?? Good grief." }, { "id": "t1_on56crd", "author": "/u/fomalhaut129", "updated": "2026-05-21T22:31:25+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on56crd/", "content": "I feel like frugal people are scared of investing (at least i am) and people who actively invest splurge more (especially when the market is doing well). Hard to have the perfect balance! (And also hard-working is not easy too)" }, { "id": "t1_on56ijl", "author": "/u/Taxibl", "updated": "2026-05-21T22:32:19+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on56ijl/", "content": "All it takes is one generation to be pretty wealthy. Now do the math on what even 2 generations could do? $1,000,000 left in an index fund for 100 years could be $1,000,000,000 inflation adjusted.\n Figure out a way to hide $1,000,000 and then make your great grandchildren global elites." }, { "id": "t1_on59rg0", "author": "/u/dcheng47", "updated": "2026-05-21T22:50:41+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on59rg0/", "content": "it takes about 2 generations for your offspring to waste away "generational wealth"" }, { "id": "t1_on5bjsn", "author": "/u/ParkAffectionate3537", "updated": "2026-05-21T23:00:41+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on5bjsn/", "content": "Post reminds me of Malcolm Gladwell's books from the 2000s about talent, timing and luck." }, { "id": "t1_on5bqlf", "author": "/u/Current-Code", "updated": "2026-05-21T23:01:45+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on5bqlf/", "content": "Well, sorry to break it to you but you ARE out of touch.\n You are the survivor of the survivor bias, you worked hard and got lucky.\n That's a great achievement, you deserve jt 100%, but don't go think it's either normal nor easy. Especially today." }, { "id": "t1_on5c3by", "author": "/u/heretonotbehere", "updated": "2026-05-21T23:03:47+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on5c3by/", "content": "This is what happens when goals are introduced and you become focused on them out of your own interest in them. It is simple. But there are many challenges in the way for many people. And there are many shiny objects out there lol." }, { "id": "t1_on5iiuc", "author": "/u/dacoovinator", "updated": "2026-05-21T23:41:01+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on5iiuc/", "content": "Bro this post cannot be real. You make over $200k/year and you’re not smart enough to consider why most people don’t fire?? You’ve lived through the most profitable corporation friendly time period in modern existence. Your hopes did not come true, this is insanely out of touch." }, { "id": "t1_on5j7sa", "author": "/u/jmmenes", "updated": "2026-05-21T23:45:05+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on5j7sa/", "content": "The book Die With Zero, helped my thinking around money a lot." }, { "id": "t1_on5lre3", "author": "/u/GW310", "updated": "2026-05-22T00:00:18+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on5lre3/", "content": "I’m in the same boat but with $7M investable assets, came from $0. Only difference is no kids so no legacy. Now trying to recondition from saving to spending." }, { "id": "t1_on5pc03", "author": "/u/clearlychange", "updated": "2026-05-22T00:21:57+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on5pc03/", "content": "Yes, it’s that easy. People don’t do it because they smoke, drink, party, shop, eat all that avocado toast you know?" }, { "id": "t1_on5rt1l", "author": "/u/Holiday-Albatross419", "updated": "2026-05-22T00:36:56+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on5rt1l/", "content": "You might want to go to Chubby FIRE or even FAT fire - some interesting discussions there about the generational wealth etc" }, { "id": "t1_on5rwwf", "author": "/u/ValuableGroceries", "updated": "2026-05-22T00:37:34+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on5rwwf/", "content": "Most people have poor decision making skills and even worse impulse control. Otherwise yeah, save money, invest it, retire early." }, { "id": "t1_on5tj63", "author": "/u/Seaguard5", "updated": "2026-05-22T00:47:04+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on5tj63/", "content": "Great.\n Now give your children intensive financial knowledge and training.\n Make them realize just how much money they have and what it is worth and how to grow it and pass it on to their children.\n And train them to do the same for their children and so on and so forth.\n If you do not do these things all that money will be spent in one generation or less." }, { "id": "t1_on5w083", "author": "/u/BrunelloHorder", "updated": "2026-05-22T01:01:47+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on5w083/", "content": "As they say, it’s simple, but it ain’t easy. If you have good jobs, a high savings rate, and just plow the surplus into a broad market index, you can build a portfolio in 20-25 years of work that will then grow into multi-generational wealth. It also helps when there is a ripping bull market like the one we’ve had for the last 15 years.\n Most people have been conditioned to be good consumers, and spend as much or more than they earn. If you don’t build up the first $500k early it gets much more difficult to take advantage of compounding. Many do not ever start the process." }, { "id": "t1_on5w2gp", "author": "/u/turpini", "updated": "2026-05-22T01:02:09+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on5w2gp/", "content": "I think you'll have RMDs and that may point you to charitable pursuits. Also, we have many conversations about what we might do for children and potentially grand children with 529s and house help. We in no way would leave an overly abundant amount to our kids. And there's inflation. But, we're going to help them along the way. Matching assistance of some sort so they have skin in the game. Feel very fortunate to say that." }, { "id": "t1_on5xzg0", "author": "/u/ExpatMarine001", "updated": "2026-05-22T01:13:36+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on5xzg0/", "content": "Yes, if we make up jobs paying both spouses 200k+ jobs it is easy." }, { "id": "t1_on5yodd", "author": "/u/Business-Gap-8979", "updated": "2026-05-22T01:17:45+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on5yodd/", "content": "It's much easier to do it back then because there are fewer college graduates, and working hard and being loyal to one company gets you somewhere. I can say this because this is what happened with my dad as well.\n Grew up in poverty, basically, each meal is one egg divided into 7 (7 kids). But his parents were teachers and really cared about education, so he went to university. We are also not from the US, so any loan or financing option for uni is not available. In uni, he struggled a lot. He could only study right before exams because he didn't own any books, and lived on a friend's couch because his parents didn't have money to pay for housing.\n Then he graduated and worked for a bank. Worked there for almost 30 years, finally a nice house in a semi-expensive suburb, putting the kids through private, international school, and universities abroad. All with a single income.\n It's just not the same reality these days. I grew up with better education and privilege than my dad did, and I do well in my career, but competition is a lot harder, and nothing is "promised". "Working hard" does not have the same meaning as it did 20 years ago. I've been working in my current job for 3 years, and haven't got any raise because "the company is not doing well" even though I've been promised that by my boss since late last year. Meanwhile, earlier in my career and switched jobs and ended up tripling my income in 2 years from switching jobs.\n The world is unfortunately not the same anymore, and nothing comes "easy"." }, { "id": "t1_on5z9jc", "author": "/u/tokingames", "updated": "2026-05-22T01:21:20+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on5z9jc/", "content": "It’s not generational wealth until you have assured it being passed down. “Shirtsleeves to shirtsleeves in 3 generations” is a common adage. People that start with nothing and get rich are very likely to have kids who don’t have their work ethic and don’t really grow the money. The third generation often tend to have little incentive to work and are really good at spending money. By the time the fortune has been split among children and grandchildren and the grandchildren know how to live well but care nothing about work, there usually isn’t much left.\n Generational wealth not only requires a lot of money but also a system or method for instilling values in the next generation or a good way to prevent the subsequent generations from squandering it. And, probably it requires a lot more than merely a few tens of millions to get that ball rolling." }, { "id": "t1_on60jcv", "author": "/u/Remarkable_Bad7285", "updated": "2026-05-22T01:29:14+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on60jcv/", "content": "This is the way." }, { "id": "t1_on60sof", "author": "/u/fk430", "updated": "2026-05-22T01:30:49+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on60sof/", "content": "Assuming there is no major market corrections for the next 40 years is overly optimistic" }, { "id": "t1_on64m48", "author": "/u/ClaustrophobicMango", "updated": "2026-05-22T01:54:18+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on64m48/", "content": "It’s easy to create generational wealth making 200k each. Knock on wood you won’t have any health issues later on that will eat through your savings.\n Personally I would never give anyone free reign to spend all their inheritance at once. I’d prefer to set it in a trust to pay for school, medical bills, a first car, health insurance, downpayment on a home etc. Maybe a larger distribution at certain age milestones (25, 30, 40.) It’s not good to get everything handed to you and not have to work a day in your life, that might set you up for bad habits like drugs, gambling, depression. And there’s no point in being too frugal. You only have one life, might as well live nicely while you’re still here" }, { "id": "t1_on67c8x", "author": "/u/Various_Things2026", "updated": "2026-05-22T02:10:57+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on67c8x/", "content": "OP and husband made $400k so we all agree that is not normal, that is not most people. But then of course they also saved and invested a good amount so at least I applaud them for that. We hear so many ppl making $300k+ living pay check to pay check cuz they have a spending problem. Most cases ppl have spending problem. Even if a couple making $200k combined, saved and invested smartly can reach $3-4m NW by their 50’s. Maybe not $5m at 49 yo but when you reached $4m or $5m there isn’t a whole lot of difference." }, { "id": "t1_on6cju2", "author": "/u/steamedfish", "updated": "2026-05-22T02:43:25+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on6cju2/", "content": "It's way harder if you have to get student loans to go to school. I have friends in their 30s still paying off loans" }, { "id": "t1_on6gg28", "author": "/u/Free-Pudding-1921", "updated": "2026-05-22T03:08:47+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on6gg28/", "content": "Please give yourselves more credit. You and your husband did extremely well, and were responsible and disciplined your entire working lives. It’s definitely not nothing." }, { "id": "t1_on6nteu", "author": "/u/RadiantMarsupial-", "updated": "2026-05-22T04:00:34+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on6nteu/", "content": "LOL you had 400 000 annual family income and came here in disbelief about how people can't save 5 000 000 when it's so easy. Get the fuck out here..." }, { "id": "t1_on6qrfc", "author": "/u/Falco19", "updated": "2026-05-22T04:22:08+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on6qrfc/", "content": "I mean you took advantage of the time you came of age.\n For example I too had an entry level job but in the late 2000s as opposed to 90s. My salary at the entry level job was 38k compared to your 35k. However house prices in my area were up 110% more than double from late 90s to late 2000s.\n You guys did great to not allow life style creep but my housing costs at the start were basically double yours comparetively." }, { "id": "t1_on6r40n", "author": "/u/Dry-Yak-7014", "updated": "2026-05-22T04:24:44+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on6r40n/", "content": "Appreciate your post. Common sense is an uncommon virtue." }, { "id": "t1_on6rqez", "author": "/u/Mundane-Charge-1900", "updated": "2026-05-22T04:29:24+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on6rqez/", "content": "Assuming anyone can get a $200k job, let alone both people in a couple is a bit of a stretch. If it was so easy, even more people would do it.\n Generational wealth is often pretty quickly squandered. All it takes is a generation or two with expensive tastes, a drug or gambling problem, and it’s gone." }, { "id": "t1_on6wmc1", "author": "/u/Crafty_Try_423", "updated": "2026-05-22T05:06:36+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on6wmc1/", "content": "It was easy because you were doing it through the most profitable time in modern U.S. history. By the time you had jobs (i.e. money to invest) you started at the bottom of the market (Black Monday was 1987) and didn’t see another crash until 2007. Haven’t seen another one since then. You invested as the internet came around, then as the tech boom happened, etc. Those were super profitable bets for anyone who just invested in general, diversified stuff and didn’t get too risky. Changes are good you owned a home during the Great Recession, and luckily didn’t lose your jobs during that financial crisis (or if you did, you were ok because with two people making $200k it’s really easy to keep things afloat).\n Sure, you worked hard. But you also got lucky in the timing of when you were investing and earning. And honestly making $200k by 40 from $35k probably means you chose the right sector. A lot of sectors just were swimming in money for a decade or more around the turn of the century.\n It seemed easy for you because it was. But the stars don’t cross like that for everyone. I know people like you love to think the only reason others aren’t rich is because they spend frivolously and don’t work hard. It is something true but often it is not true. I’ve worked *very* hard all my career, but I constantly undersold myself. Also, I didn’t choose tech. I worked in the government because I felt they were the only ones who would hire me. I say all these men around me in fancy suits with corporate stuff and going to Very Important Meetings and felt like no way was I smart enough or pretty enough to be one of those people. I was wrong, but it took me 16+ yrs to figure it out. Also, I’ve done everything alone. Married the wrong guy at 24. He squandered all his money by sending it back to his family who just relied on him. Didn’t buy a house because I was scared and alone. Didn’t invest because I was scared. And on and on…not making excuses I’m just saying most people make most of their money passively - either through real estate or the market. If you don’t crack that code early on, you can’t FIRE. It’s that simple. Saving doesn’t really get you far if you don’t make that money make money.\n The smartest thing you did was get the Investing for Dummies book and use it. Good job!" }, { "id": "t1_on6wp6w", "author": "/u/Smally02929282727", "updated": "2026-05-22T05:07:13+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on6wp6w/", "content": "Well most people dont get to start their white collar carrers in USA in the 90's." }, { "id": "t1_on6ylnk", "author": "/u/ApplePrimary2985", "updated": "2026-05-22T05:22:13+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on6ylnk/", "content": "Well you enjoyed one of the most fiscally irresponsible and reckless periods of monetary expansion in history and the surplus generated funneled into the financial markets and assets.\n In the 70's people were buying houses working at Walmart. Those same homes have 4-6x'd in value. I know a vet who did 4 years in army, bought five houses in his neighborhood over a couple decades while working BS job, and is now a multi-multi millionaire, because of timing.\n You're personalizing it too much." }, { "id": "t1_on76771", "author": "/u/spartanburt", "updated": "2026-05-22T06:23:59+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on76771/", "content": "The key is to make over 200k you say? Then gosh, yeah why doesnt everyone just do that?" }, { "id": "t1_on78uzq", "author": "/u/pbandjfordayzzz", "updated": "2026-05-22T06:45:56+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on78uzq/", "content": "I stopped working in my early 30s and my future children will probably be inheriting 9 figures according to my spreadsheet. Inflation will erode away at the value though. Also a lot can happen- war, political instability, etc. the Roman Empire eventually fell." }, { "id": "t1_on79zzi", "author": "/u/justcametosaythanks", "updated": "2026-05-22T06:55:17+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on79zzi/", "content": "Ai bullshit…." }, { "id": "t1_on7cm3s", "author": "/u/Any_Elk7495", "updated": "2026-05-22T07:17:14+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on7cm3s/", "content": "400k household income is absolutely not the norm." }, { "id": "t1_on7dosc", "author": "/u/professorswamp", "updated": "2026-05-22T07:26:37+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on7dosc/", "content": "Is tens of millions of dollars going to be useful to your kids at 60 years old?" }, { "id": "t1_on7lucb", "author": "/u/whocaresreallythrow", "updated": "2026-05-22T08:39:33+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on7lucb/", "content": "Do you think your kids or grandkids can do the same. Regardless how it’s earned - sports superstar, inventing a great thing, land ownership, or just a couple dopes like you guys, the issue isn’t making it. It’s keeping it. Most intergenerational wealth doesn’t last because people get lazy.\n We are in a unique time in history and opportunity. This doesn’t repeat Things like war, displacement , theft and disease through history have disrupted this cycle. Not to mention kids and grandkids who turn out to be lazy little fuckups and spend it all.\n Finally, I’m Calling this a likely LARP post most likely because Gen X doesn’t use words like insane or literally and we certainly don’t assume we will live into our 80s or 90s. We also know about things like stock market crashes that can reset our millions to half of that or less. And we know cost of medical care and possible long term care can easily wipe out a multi million dollar portfolio across a lifetime leaving little for the next generation even if starting with a lot." }, { "id": "t1_on7putg", "author": "/u/StockMoeller", "updated": "2026-05-22T09:15:15+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on7putg/", "content": "Congratulations! Your results really come down to one thing that a lot of people don’t have in this consumerist society- Discipline. You spent below your means and invested consistently over many years.\n You also had the discipline to do the hardest thing when it comes to investing- nothing. Constant trading & FOMO is what ruins potentially great portfolios." }, { "id": "t1_on7vu6j", "author": "/u/kambagirl", "updated": "2026-05-22T10:05:41+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on7vu6j/", "content": "You’d be surprised how much patience and consistency people lack." }, { "id": "t1_on80rkd", "author": "/u/hangrymillenial", "updated": "2026-05-22T10:43:39+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on80rkd/", "content": "Happy for you that you were a working adult in the booming economy of the 90s and early 2000s. Whatever advice you will give to your own children from "Investments for dummies" is going to be obsolete before you finish your sentence.\n The only way your children will not end up as wage slaves and will have some sort of financial freedom is your millions. That you achieved, like you said yourself - by not doing much." }, { "id": "t1_on81vsh", "author": "/u/Last_Ad4258", "updated": "2026-05-22T10:51:42+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on81vsh/", "content": "Retiring in your 40s may be fringe but becoming rich just by being a good saver over the last 20 years in shockingly common. There is no other time in market history that like the last 20 years, so I wouldn’t worry too much about projection. We’ve been on a real wave and it will be interesting to see where it leads, I wouldn’t worry much that your kids will have it too easy." }, { "id": "t1_on85oxr", "author": "/u/jspirits2020", "updated": "2026-05-22T11:18:06+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on85oxr/", "content": "Great post." }, { "id": "t1_on85vcj", "author": "/u/Still-Hand2478", "updated": "2026-05-22T11:19:16+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tjqxu9/thoughts_on_generational_wealth/on85vcj/", "content": "Isn’t it that it “just” requires someone to be smart, good at corporate life (to earn those promotions), and disciplined (to not spend all that comes in - this correlates to smart). The problem is simply that not everyone is smart enough to pull this off (and a bachelor degree is not a guarantee for someone to be smart)." } ] }, { "source": "r/Fire top month", "id": "t3_1te8wft", "title": "Go out swinging?", "author": "/u/antidentites", "updated": "2026-05-15T20:54:59+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/", "content": "So I’m on my way out at work in a tech company and have worked for a manager that has made my life hell. She is extremely toxic and the reason I’m leaving to FIRE/CoastFIRE.\n I never want to - or need to - return to tech (note: I used em dashes way before AI and won’t stop even if you think this is AI generated)!\n I want to burn some bridges and tell her how I really feel about her when I leave. Essentially the same thing she has been doing to me.\n Would you go out Costanza-style if you were me, or just let it slide?\n submitted by /u/antidentites\n [link] [comments]", "contentHtml": "

So I’m on my way out at work in a tech company and have worked for a manager that has made my life hell. She is extremely toxic and the reason I’m leaving to FIRE/CoastFIRE.

I never want to - or need to - return to tech (note: I used em dashes way before AI and won’t stop even if you think this is AI generated)!

I want to burn some bridges and tell her how I really feel about her when I leave. Essentially the same thing she has been doing to me.

Would you go out Costanza-style if you were me, or just let it slide?

submitted by /u/antidentites
[link] [comments]", "comments": [ { "id": "t1_om0qkc7", "author": "/u/mygirltien", "updated": "2026-05-15T21:00:13+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om0qkc7/", "content": "If she publicly gets in your face or makes a stink with others watching I say let loose at that time. Otherwise just let it go. If your HR does an exit interview you can say something then if you wish." }, { "id": "t1_om0u3yg", "author": "/u/Clean-Guarantee-9898", "updated": "2026-05-15T21:18:15+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om0u3yg/", "content": "The exit interview is the way to go. That would be on record, and the accumulation of that kind of negative feedback over time could impact her employment.\n If she’s really clueless or uncaring, venting directly to her will do nothing, even if there’s aspects of imagining the venting that sound satisfying. It would probably be more satisfying to impact her job." }, { "id": "t1_om0vk1e", "author": "/u/antidentites", "updated": "2026-05-15T21:25:49+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om0vk1e/", "content": "I will likely report her to HR for some of the extremely questionable things she has done.\n That’s the more professional way to go." }, { "id": "t1_om10x3j", "author": "/u/SuccessfulReturn4103", "updated": "2026-05-15T21:54:26+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om10x3j/", "content": "Report to HR the hostile environment she’s created for you and that it is making you consider leaving. Follow up and suggest they offer you a severance to leave" }, { "id": "t1_om3zdkg", "author": "/u/QuickAltTab", "updated": "2026-05-16T10:51:40+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om3zdkg/", "content": "Damn that sounds like good advice, he gets more than the satisfaction of venting his frustrations with her, he could get a valuable severance." }, { "id": "t1_om0x16l", "author": "/u/trademarktower", "updated": "2026-05-15T21:33:37+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om0x16l/", "content": "My advice when dealing with unhinged insane crazy people is to just move on. Best to not engage and keep it professional. No telling what she is capable of from suing you for defamation or lying and saying you sexually harassed her to threatening you at your home. You never know truly what human garbage you are dealing with. You won the game. Enjoy your retirement and let her continue working in her misery." }, { "id": "t1_om12wvc", "author": "/u/DigmonsDrill", "updated": "2026-05-15T22:05:33+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om12wvc/", "content": "Famous "rules for crazy"\n If you don’t have to deal with a crazy person, don’t.\n You can’t outsmart crazy. You also can’t fix crazy. (You could outcrazy it, but that makes you crazy too.)\n When you get in a contest of wills with a crazy person, you’ve already lost.\n The crazy person doesn’t have as much to lose as you.\n Your desired outcome is to get away from the crazy person.\n You have no idea what the crazy person’s desired outcome is.\n The crazy person sees anything you have done as justification for what they're about to do.\n Anything nice you do for the crazy person, they will use as ammunition later.\n The crazy person sees any outcome as vindication.\n When you start caring what the crazy person thinks, you’re joining them in their craziness." }, { "id": "t1_om14l1a", "author": "/u/albanyanthem", "updated": "2026-05-15T22:15:07+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om14l1a/", "content": "You forgot: “Don’t stick your dick in crazy.”" }, { "id": "t1_om1a6ke", "author": "/u/wrldwdeu4ria", "updated": "2026-05-15T22:47:38+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om1a6ke/", "content": "Or let crazy put his dick in you." }, { "id": "t1_om2bpj0", "author": "/u/Intrepid-Pin6941", "updated": "2026-05-16T02:38:22+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om2bpj0/", "content": "Aw cmon, live a little." }, { "id": "t1_om5ratu", "author": "/u/1_21-gigawatts", "updated": "2026-05-16T16:54:48+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om5ratu/", "content": "Only if they’re above the line on the hot-crazy graph" }, { "id": "t1_om1nb66", "author": "/u/Ruckusseur", "updated": "2026-05-16T00:05:06+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om1nb66/", "content": "I think the vast majority of the time, a dude calling a woman crazy (and it is almost always a dude referring to a woman in this manner) is just belittling her and/or minimizing his own shitty actions. But in the case of one woman I was involved with years ago, I had text messages and eyewitnesses to corroborate that she was absolutely cuckoo bananas - and not just the fact that despite being beautiful and smart and funny, she was interested in me.\n The sex was, however, incredible. So I had that goin' for me. Which was nice." }, { "id": "t1_om23qnb", "author": "/u/vulkoriscoming", "updated": "2026-05-16T01:47:51+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om23qnb/", "content": "Sex with crazies is always amazing, but usually the ride is not worth the pain." }, { "id": "t1_om2hd5o", "author": "/u/bankinu", "updated": "2026-05-16T03:16:22+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om2hd5o/", "content": "I once used to do that because I loved her.\n Then she was arrested because she threw an (empty) soda can towards an elderly couple. Uff. That was an eye opener for me." }, { "id": "t1_om5lonp", "author": "/u/Snowedin-69", "updated": "2026-05-16T16:26:16+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om5lonp/", "content": "Well, at least they did threw a can, not a bottle" }, { "id": "t1_omf1ean", "author": "/u/Striking_Claim69", "updated": "2026-05-18T03:00:11+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/omf1ean/", "content": "Man this is gold I tell you gold up there with if you leave your dick in a hot microwave your bound to get burnt" }, { "id": "t1_om137xi", "author": "/u/trademarktower", "updated": "2026-05-15T22:07:18+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om137xi/", "content": "Perfect response 👌" }, { "id": "t1_om18fad", "author": "/u/Ok-Beyond-4200", "updated": "2026-05-15T22:37:24+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om18fad/", "content": "😂 i gotta screenshot that! Love it" }, { "id": "t1_om2ctse", "author": "/u/RockyRaccoon72", "updated": "2026-05-16T02:45:40+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om2ctse/", "content": "I am keeping your post. I will type it out and laminate it in my home office area. I will not bri g it to work and put it on my desk. Too valuable" }, { "id": "t1_om32vv3", "author": "/u/carson63000", "updated": "2026-05-16T06:02:07+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om32vv3/", "content": "Pretending to be crazy only works until you meet someone pretending to be sane." }, { "id": "t1_om145x4", "author": "", "updated": "2026-05-15T22:12:42+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om145x4/", "content": "[deleted]" }, { "id": "t1_om28wts", "author": "/u/antidentites", "updated": "2026-05-16T02:20:24+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om28wts/", "content": "An I the crazy person her or is she?!?" }, { "id": "t1_om1bwl4", "author": "/u/Historical_Rip_1848", "updated": "2026-05-15T22:57:40+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om1bwl4/", "content": "This, as satisfying as a revenge fantasy is, it's never worth having them notice you again. That look in their eye as you see them make a mental note to plan some revenge against you later... And you realize you're locked in with someone you really just wanted to get away from. Never worth it." }, { "id": "t1_om1s1z7", "author": "/u/rayc25", "updated": "2026-05-16T00:34:29+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om1s1z7/", "content": "I disagree. You just have to be more precise with your pettiness. You have to collect evidence. It isn’t defamation if you have logged interactions. Even better is that in retirement you’ll have more time to plot revenge." }, { "id": "t1_om0wnqu", "author": "/u/OrneryWinter84", "updated": "2026-05-15T21:31:38+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om0wnqu/", "content": "Like what?" }, { "id": "t1_om0yk6l", "author": "/u/noicenator", "updated": "2026-05-15T21:41:46+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om0yk6l/", "content": "yea OP spill the beans" }, { "id": "t1_om28stt", "author": "/u/antidentites", "updated": "2026-05-16T02:19:42+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om28stt/", "content": "Firing 100% of her direct reports that are men and 0% of the women (downvote me if you must but she has a documented favoritism towards women); laying off people with bullshit rationale; and a few others" }, { "id": "t1_om2bk5y", "author": "/u/Intrepid-Pin6941", "updated": "2026-05-16T02:37:24+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om2bk5y/", "content": "Ok so it’s her choices on prior terminations, not including you, that have caused such a toxic environment you want to leave the industry??" }, { "id": "t1_om2dejd", "author": "/u/antidentites", "updated": "2026-05-16T02:49:30+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om2dejd/", "content": "It’s much more nuanced than that, but that’s absolutely a big part of it.\n She’s wantonly messing with people’s lives based on extremely questionable grounds that she fabricates. And she’ll likely continue to do so unless she realizes the impact she’s having on people’s lives." }, { "id": "t1_om3ypq9", "author": "/u/mormez", "updated": "2026-05-16T10:46:21+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om3ypq9/", "content": "If she was allowed to do that and have no consequences, reporting her to HR will probably do nothing. They’re likely aware of her, and likely don’t care.\n HR is not there to protect the employees, as unfortunate as that is." }, { "id": "t1_om40rnb", "author": "/u/potent_dotage", "updated": "2026-05-16T11:02:28+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om40rnb/", "content": "So the firings are pretty clear evidence if it's incredibly lopsided compared to the overall gender split, and if you can name specific employees and list specific actions/fabrications (especially if you have emails or messages!), HR can carefully investigate. IMO the bigger the company you work for, the higher chances of success.\n Our annual harassment training shows (allegedly) actual cases and statistics of HR investigations over the previous year without any names, and they always stress that retaliation is illegal. HR is there to protect the company, and they know they have to handle such things delicately to avoid lawsuits." }, { "id": "t1_om9kng8", "author": "/u/antidentites", "updated": "2026-05-17T07:05:16+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om9kng8/", "content": "Well said.\n Yes, I have many names of people she’s gotten fired or laid off. It’s a big graveyard.\n I’ve also talked to many of them who unanimously mention her as being deceitful in her layoff rationale. I’m certain she retaliates, but knows how to do so without raising any flags even in the large corporation we work within." }, { "id": "t1_om2gezv", "author": "/u/bankinu", "updated": "2026-05-16T03:09:46+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om2gezv/", "content": "I am not going to down vote you. I'll do the opposite." }, { "id": "t1_om1p6m9", "author": "/u/BexKix", "updated": "2026-05-16T00:16:34+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om1p6m9/", "content": "Ooh I’ve done this! 10/10\n Here’s what you do: lay out the time line of everything. Factually. Painfully detailed. This will take some time to piece together if you do it thoroughly, and more will come to mind as you go through.\n I emailed the time line with the cold facts to HR, supervisor, his boss. I knew I was tossing a grenade.\n A meeting appeared on my calendar, from HR. I walked in expecting the worst since I was on (supervisor lied to create) PIP anyway. It was a retention meeting. I received an apology from HR since ratings are set in August for budgeting, and “sometimes things slip through.” My supervisor was asking me what he can do to do his job better. I was reeling. It was a complete flip from what I expected.\n I got an offer from outside and happily left.\n The key is to find things with time and date stamps if possible. Emails. And don’t whine, don’t evaluate, just lay the facts out. A lawyer would have had a field day with my email and they knew it." }, { "id": "t1_om35v90", "author": "/u/robotbike2", "updated": "2026-05-16T06:27:48+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om35v90/", "content": "The last sentence is crucially important. It is all about money. The company reaction will be about controlling liability and limiting what it could cost them. Whether you have enough to sue realistically is what determines their response." }, { "id": "t1_om49c07", "author": "/u/Awake-2Day", "updated": "2026-05-16T12:04:09+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om49c07/", "content": "Done This" }, { "id": "t1_om1g90i", "author": "/u/Dynamiccushion65", "updated": "2026-05-15T23:23:10+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om1g90i/", "content": "Just sell her out to her boss. Ask for half an hour on his calendar - and then show items and question her decision making. That boss will always listen to her and never believe her again. HR doesn’t care" }, { "id": "t1_om4dzza", "author": "/u/LouSevens", "updated": "2026-05-16T12:34:17+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om4dzza/", "content": "exactly- HR doesn't care and sides with the employee higher up the food chain." }, { "id": "t1_om1r2im", "author": "/u/bob_pipe_layer", "updated": "2026-05-16T00:28:13+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om1r2im/", "content": "Report her before giving notice. Then if they fire you it's questionable at best. If anything it will increase your severance" }, { "id": "t1_om114om", "author": "/u/offtherighttrack", "updated": "2026-05-15T21:55:35+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om114om/", "content": "That would be my approach and recommendation.\n I'd also be providing a detailed summary of issues/behaviors directly to her boss." }, { "id": "t1_om0x17c", "author": "/u/K_A_irony", "updated": "2026-05-15T21:33:37+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om0x17c/", "content": "You must deliver the tea... do tell." }, { "id": "t1_om1b5y0", "author": "/u/Megalocerus", "updated": "2026-05-15T22:53:20+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om1b5y0/", "content": "It makes sense to talk to HR now if you think she has crossed legal lines. But generally, you don't make a scene, and she doesn't care what you say when you are let go.\n You don't want to be remembered as a nut by onlookers who may be working somewhere else you apply to." }, { "id": "t1_om1u3f7", "author": "/u/ellemrad", "updated": "2026-05-16T00:47:20+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om1u3f7/", "content": "Write all of the things down now—try to anchor to dates. Verbally reporting to HR is good but adding “I will email you my written records of her behavior to add to your files for this exit interview” is stronger." }, { "id": "t1_om4dtn5", "author": "/u/LouSevens", "updated": "2026-05-16T12:33:11+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om4dtn5/", "content": "HR is useless and never sides with the employee. I would go higher ." }, { "id": "t1_om4s8dc", "author": "/u/antidentites", "updated": "2026-05-16T13:56:51+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om4s8dc/", "content": "You’re right that HR is there to protect the company more than the employee.\n One of my really good friends works in HR and helps to ensure I can maximize my approach on that front." }, { "id": "t1_om1o0jp", "author": "/u/Barbiegrrrrrl", "updated": "2026-05-16T00:09:26+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om1o0jp/", "content": "Report her, go through that process, then quit and burn her in the exit interview by saying that despite your complaints she continues to be intolerable and you can't see a future there despite how much you love the company, your other coworkers, and your work." }, { "id": "t1_om11z5n", "author": "", "updated": "2026-05-15T22:00:14+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om11z5n/", "content": "[deleted]" }, { "id": "t1_om13j1o", "author": "/u/Best-Necessary3622", "updated": "2026-05-15T22:09:04+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om13j1o/", "content": "HR Doesn’t Care!" }, { "id": "t1_om15ir8", "author": "/u/Fast-Decision6298", "updated": "2026-05-15T22:20:30+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om15ir8/", "content": "You are so right!" }, { "id": "t1_om1hy26", "author": "/u/asymphonyin2parts", "updated": "2026-05-15T23:33:10+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om1hy26/", "content": "Oh HR cares. If they have a manager that is a liability to the company, they may even act. But they need a paper trail to make it worth their time / putting their necks out. If it's just a he said / she said thing or if that manager has a lot of pull upstairs, it may be in HR's best interest to be become real... uninterested. In any case, it's typically not about justice, but about managing liability. Sometimes that even goes in the majority of employee's favor! Sometimes..." }, { "id": "t1_om5cc34", "author": "/u/jlaudiofan", "updated": "2026-05-16T15:39:35+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om5cc34/", "content": "We dont even have an HR person on site. They are at least a thousand miles away 🤣" }, { "id": "t1_om1w6sa", "author": "/u/Icy_Pay518", "updated": "2026-05-16T01:00:20+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om1w6sa/", "content": "My last place got rid of the exit interview, replacing it with an exit survey that I am 💯sure that no one looks at." }, { "id": "t1_om5qxhh", "author": "/u/1_21-gigawatts", "updated": "2026-05-16T16:52:58+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om5qxhh/", "content": "Exit interviews are pointless: for the company and for the worker. If it makes you feel better, then go for it, but I assure you there is a 99% probability that nothing will come of it." }, { "id": "t1_om4qx1x", "author": "/u/petalsoftshade", "updated": "2026-05-16T13:49:41+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om4qx1x/", "content": "If multiple people keep saying the same thing in exit interviews, eventually it gets really hard for management to ignore the pattern." }, { "id": "t1_om4rtcq", "author": "/u/Chet100", "updated": "2026-05-16T13:54:35+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om4rtcq/", "content": "Nothing will happen to her unless there a bunch of people filing complaint and if her performance is decent, forget about it.. I would publically reprimand her if I had nothing to lose....but be ready to get fired then... Nothing more valuable than respect at work imo..." }, { "id": "t1_om0sp53", "author": "/u/antidentites", "updated": "2026-05-15T21:10:58+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om0sp53/", "content": "This is solid advice. Love it." }, { "id": "t1_om0z20j", "author": "/u/RabbiSchlem", "updated": "2026-05-15T21:44:25+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om0z20j/", "content": "And if you really feel the need to get a little enjoyment out of the situation, you can just ping her after the exit interview and simply say, “just did my exit interview! We had a great discussion about you! Thanks for everything, good luck!”" }, { "id": "t1_om1auw1", "author": "/u/wrldwdeu4ria", "updated": "2026-05-15T22:51:34+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om1auw1/", "content": "I like this idea." }, { "id": "t1_om9msad", "author": "/u/antidentites", "updated": "2026-05-17T07:24:08+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om9msad/", "content": "Brilliant." }, { "id": "t1_om0vyp2", "author": "/u/BillyBobChorton", "updated": "2026-05-15T21:27:58+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om0vyp2/", "content": "Just left a large company ($200 BB market cap) due to a manager who was making my life hell. I was ready to share it at an exit interview but it never came. I guess some large companies don’t care to do that anymore? I even emailed HR about it and they said “i could put it in a word document if I really wanted”. I didn’t bother.\n Also sometimes you need to understand if your manager is manipulative and having conversations above you to get blessing to treat you a certain way. I tried having conversation with my skip level and VP/dept head and kind of felt like that was the case. I feel those conversations were likely unfair and complete misrepresentation of facts were involved but it doesn’t really matter, I just moved on to a slightly higher salary, higher title at another company." }, { "id": "t1_om0ybb4", "author": "/u/BeatDense9049", "updated": "2026-05-15T21:40:27+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om0ybb4/", "content": "nah id try to get her fired for harassment. Like do something intentionally to annoy her for a few days progressively to get her to explode and then file a complaint heck if she gets fired OP might want to keep the job even. An annoying little tick like making a strange noise every time you talk her or rolling eyes doesn’t matter if you are ready to quit." }, { "id": "t1_om3dct3", "author": "/u/dotinghello_14", "updated": "2026-05-16T07:33:36+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om3dct3/", "content": "Exit interview feedback rarely changes anything unless there's already a pattern in HR's file, so don't expect catharsis from that route." }, { "id": "t1_om34ozd", "author": "/u/robotbike2", "updated": "2026-05-16T06:17:34+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om34ozd/", "content": "Exit interviews are like HR departments. They may seem to be for employees, but they’re mostly for the company’s benefit. Avoid saying anything substantive in them." }, { "id": "t1_om0qa78", "author": "/u/SteevieJanowski", "updated": "2026-05-15T20:58:51+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om0qa78/", "content": "It’s fun to fantasize about, but irl just kinda weird and not worth it imo" }, { "id": "t1_om0rck8", "author": "/u/Firm_Piano4990", "updated": "2026-05-15T21:04:08+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om0rck8/", "content": "yeah the fantasy is way better than reality would be. Like in your head youre delivering this perfect speech and she just sits there defeated but actually she'll probably just think you're unhinged and it becomes this awkward cringe moment you remember at 3am for years\n plus if you're already financially set to leave tech forever then you already won. She still has to wake up every day being... herself. That's punishment enough" }, { "id": "t1_om0v9q2", "author": "/u/limbomaniac", "updated": "2026-05-15T21:24:17+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om0v9q2/", "content": "This. The best revenge is living well." }, { "id": "t1_om1bc8d", "author": "/u/Blasterocked", "updated": "2026-05-15T22:54:21+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om1bc8d/", "content": "I've seen these work bullies so many times and they will always say they "liked" the person and are in shock they "went crazy." Absolute waste of time. Wait a few years and the rose colored glasses kick in. A lady who was always complaining and snapping at me ended up taking me out to lunch on her dime years later.\n You never know why people are acting the way they do." }, { "id": "t1_om1qvpd", "author": "/u/Topaz_11", "updated": "2026-05-16T00:27:02+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om1qvpd/", "content": "....and forgetting her name" }, { "id": "t1_om0wgds", "author": "/u/ShizzaManelli", "updated": "2026-05-15T21:30:34+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om0wgds/", "content": "Yea, she’s just going to feel validated for all her shit behavior towards you, like yea see you deserved it" }, { "id": "t1_om1g4es", "author": "/u/UnderstandingNew2810", "updated": "2026-05-15T23:22:26+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om1g4es/", "content": "And that’s the best you can do. Literally retire" }, { "id": "t1_om5lvd0", "author": "/u/Five0clocksomewhere", "updated": "2026-05-16T16:27:12+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om5lvd0/", "content": "The last line is what I came here to say. 1. She doesn’t care about you so saying anything won’t matter to her, she doesn’t feel empathy. 2. You won lol. She’s a miserable manager" }, { "id": "t1_om0thmo", "author": "/u/GlaciaCharm", "updated": "2026-05-15T21:15:02+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om0thmo/", "content": "Yeah but the fantasy is free therapy" }, { "id": "t1_om0t9c1", "author": "/u/United_Reflection104", "updated": "2026-05-15T21:13:49+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om0t9c1/", "content": "This applies to going out swinging in multiple ways" }, { "id": "t1_om0tlpg", "author": "/u/ObservantWon", "updated": "2026-05-15T21:15:37+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om0tlpg/", "content": "Start complaining to HR about her now. They won’t do anything to her, but they’ll identify you as a problem and I’d wager they’d throw you a nice package to leave after PIPing you.\n Better yet, start gathering information on starting a union and bring it up during conference calls. Be very vocal about it. Once again, they might just give you a nice severance package and send you on your way." }, { "id": "t1_om0xr7r", "author": "/u/BillyBobChorton", "updated": "2026-05-15T21:37:27+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om0xr7r/", "content": "This is the part I wish I knew. I left before a PIP ever came with all my performance ratings being “strong year” but I knew she was building a (BS) documented case. I found out later she had put several previous people on PIPs and they left with a nice severance package. I even called one of my former managers at the same company and found out she was also pushed out by current boss. She called her a “psychopath and master manipulator”. Was shocking to hear from someone who was always so professional and buttoned up when she worked with me.\n Anyways I wish I let them put me on a PIP and enjoyed some “paid” time off with the severance instead of just finding my next job and leaving." }, { "id": "t1_om11lty", "author": "/u/Mail_Order_Lutefisk", "updated": "2026-05-15T21:58:12+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om11lty/", "content": "After the bar that Chirayu Rana set is there any way to ever leave a mark now?" }, { "id": "t1_om0ra88", "author": "", "updated": "2026-05-15T21:03:49+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om0ra88/", "content": "[deleted]" }, { "id": "t1_om0skxe", "author": "/u/TommySalami5555", "updated": "2026-05-15T21:10:22+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om0skxe/", "content": "Now I understand why this guy is getting fired" }, { "id": "t1_om0vxx6", "author": "/u/antidentites", "updated": "2026-05-15T21:27:51+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om0vxx6/", "content": "Boss, is that you?" }, { "id": "t1_om0u5ta", "author": "/u/Powerful-Ad7330", "updated": "2026-05-15T21:18:31+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om0u5ta/", "content": "That shit would get you put on a PIP at Amazon. I've heard people called out for margins that were too big/small, white space being a "bold choice" (code for you were writing a 6 pager, write 6 fucking pages - not including the appendices) and my personal favorite, using the wrong font causing a "loss of trust." And the reminder that "Amazon is an Oxford comma culture."" }, { "id": "t1_om0ugpd", "author": "/u/MozzieKiller", "updated": "2026-05-15T21:20:05+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om0ugpd/", "content": "Comic sans is grounds for a demotion." }, { "id": "t1_om11g6p", "author": "/u/FeistyMcRedHead", "updated": "2026-05-15T21:57:20+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om11g6p/", "content": "Straight up Wingdings" }, { "id": "t1_om1g7b8", "author": "/u/damiana8", "updated": "2026-05-15T23:22:54+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om1g7b8/", "content": "“I want to be placed on a 5150 hold”" }, { "id": "t1_om0yxpj", "author": "/u/Powerful-Ad7330", "updated": "2026-05-15T21:43:46+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om0yxpj/", "content": "Straight to jail!" }, { "id": "t1_om0x5ta", "author": "/u/anTWhine", "updated": "2026-05-15T21:34:18+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om0x5ta/", "content": "I’ve had very serious conversations with my boss over the use of a seriffed font and the lack of pastels in my presentation. Pastels are more professional.\n I also think that guy has at least one suit made from the flesh of his victims." }, { "id": "t1_om0ytni", "author": "/u/Powerful-Ad7330", "updated": "2026-05-15T21:43:10+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om0ytni/", "content": "I only have a nice blazer made from human skin, that's ok, right?" }, { "id": "t1_om14mby", "author": "", "updated": "2026-05-15T22:15:20+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om14mby/", "content": "[deleted]" }, { "id": "t1_om15a23", "author": "/u/anTWhine", "updated": "2026-05-15T22:19:07+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om15a23/", "content": "Honestly that seems wasteful" }, { "id": "t1_om0upe4", "author": "/u/BillyBobChorton", "updated": "2026-05-15T21:21:20+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om0upe4/", "content": "“I thought amazon was more of a piss in a bottle culture”" }, { "id": "t1_om0zbwz", "author": "/u/Powerful-Ad7330", "updated": "2026-05-15T21:45:53+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om0zbwz/", "content": "That's for the delivery and fulfillment center peasants. In corporate, we prefer to weaponize the leadership principles and critique the use of commas and white space." }, { "id": "t1_om13sz2", "author": "", "updated": "2026-05-15T22:10:39+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om13sz2/", "content": "[deleted]" }, { "id": "t1_om1m6y1", "author": "/u/Powerful-Ad7330", "updated": "2026-05-15T23:58:25+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om1m6y1/", "content": "A 30% increase from 0 is still 0? Agreed on the Oxford comma though, the alternative is unthinkable savagery." }, { "id": "t1_om12ez3", "author": "/u/DigmonsDrill", "updated": "2026-05-15T22:02:44+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om12ez3/", "content": "I wrote my 7 as 7 and the CEO fired me and everyone who signed off on hiring me to make sure the lesson was learnt." }, { "id": "t1_om13axo", "author": "/u/alaskalights", "updated": "2026-05-15T22:07:47+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om13axo/", "content": "I have to agree on one point. Not using oxford commas is termination on the spot. No PIP. Immediately escorted out and trespassed. No rehire. Possible police charges.\n Believe it or not, straight to jail!" }, { "id": "t1_om0t7y6", "author": "/u/Yogijoe_idaho1342", "updated": "2026-05-15T21:13:38+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om0t7y6/", "content": "Lolol" }, { "id": "t1_om0wphb", "author": "/u/justgetoffmylawn", "updated": "2026-05-15T21:31:54+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om0wphb/", "content": "Amazing. :—)" }, { "id": "t1_om0s6m0", "author": "/u/antidentites", "updated": "2026-05-15T21:08:20+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om0s6m0/", "content": "Thank you. I should know what they’re called if I’m going to use them." }, { "id": "t1_om0tves", "author": "/u/InterestingOwl11", "updated": "2026-05-15T21:17:01+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om0tves/", "content": "Just let it go. Although some polished, professional feedback if there is an HR exit interview wouldn't be the worst thing\n Also, your usage of the em dash is fine. Just make them two dashes like -- and you'll be correct.\n AI can have my em dash when they pry it from my cold, grammatically correct keyboard." }, { "id": "t1_om0umo7", "author": "/u/Important-Trifle-411", "updated": "2026-05-15T21:20:56+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om0umo7/", "content": "OK, I never even knew there was a difference between an en dash and an em dash!" }, { "id": "t1_om11dov", "author": "/u/Usedupusername", "updated": "2026-05-15T21:56:57+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om11dov/", "content": "En-dash is the length of the 'n' Em-dash is the length of the 'm'\n I encourage you down the typesetting rabbit hole 🕳️ it's a great world, filled with orphans and widows." }, { "id": "t1_om1dogy", "author": "/u/wrldwdeu4ria", "updated": "2026-05-15T23:08:06+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om1dogy/", "content": "And an even deeper hole in typography with kerning and tracking lingers quietly in the background." }, { "id": "t1_om18cgk", "author": "/u/Important-Trifle-411", "updated": "2026-05-15T22:36:57+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om18cgk/", "content": "Wow, thank you for this. I love all this kind of little details. I guess I know my rabbit hole for the evening!" }, { "id": "t1_om0tp04", "author": "/u/nothatsmyarm", "updated": "2026-05-15T21:16:06+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om0tp04/", "content": "I had the exact same thought." }, { "id": "t1_om139cr", "author": "/u/AnAlsoOtherStuff", "updated": "2026-05-15T22:07:33+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om139cr/", "content": "Even before AI I always used hyphens as em dashes - mostly cuz there's a button for it on a keyboard, but not for the others!" }, { "id": "t1_om3dmy8", "author": "/u/rednought", "updated": "2026-05-16T07:36:09+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om3dmy8/", "content": "On iPhone, hold down the regular dash, the others will show\n On Mac, Option-dash and Shift-Option-dash" }, { "id": "t1_om12fix", "author": "/u/Schwifftee", "updated": "2026-05-15T22:02:49+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om12fix/", "content": "Thank you for saying something because I was about to." }, { "id": "t1_om10i0d", "author": "/u/RX3000", "updated": "2026-05-15T21:52:11+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om10i0d/", "content": "Ok sure, but do you know why they are called en dash & em dash spelled out, instead of N dash & M dash?? 🤔" }, { "id": "t1_om0shvf", "author": "/u/nerdy_volcano", "updated": "2026-05-15T21:09:55+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om0shvf/", "content": "Why waste anymore thought or emotion on a person you don’t like?" }, { "id": "t1_om0tfa4", "author": "/u/Lonely-Clerk-2478", "updated": "2026-05-15T21:14:41+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om0tfa4/", "content": "This is the right response. And the gods honest truth is that she won’t give a shit. And, if you still have friends or at least close acquaintances at the company, and she knows that, she can make their lives difficult. Go live your best life and leave her behind." }, { "id": "t1_om0zqib", "author": "/u/antidentites", "updated": "2026-05-15T21:48:03+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om0zqib/", "content": "She has already gotten rid of my whole team except for one person. But I dont want any repercussions for him for sure." }, { "id": "t1_om1306v", "author": "/u/wisenedPanda", "updated": "2026-05-15T22:06:05+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om1306v/", "content": "Maybe go to her boss instead of her and present a logical case for why she shouldn't be managing" }, { "id": "t1_om17cri", "author": "/u/DigmonsDrill", "updated": "2026-05-15T22:31:07+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om17cri/", "content": "Is there any problem he's facing where you can fall on your sword to take all the blame on your way out?" }, { "id": "t1_om0ps7g", "author": "/u/Chazzer74", "updated": "2026-05-15T20:56:22+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om0ps7g/", "content": "Let it slide." }, { "id": "t1_om0rxav", "author": "/u/1ntrepidsalamander", "updated": "2026-05-15T21:07:02+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om0rxav/", "content": "I’m in healthcare and a number of coworkers have “gone out swinging” including sending company wide emails airing grievances (including the c suite, obviously)\n There’s been reporting to regulatory boards.\n There’s been stealing things— sometimes just annoying things that aren’t worth anything.\n There’s been slamming down badges and walking off, middle fingers in the air.\n I’d just say, choose your dramatics in ways that don’t make your coworker’s lives worse." }, { "id": "t1_om0zj7a", "author": "/u/antidentites", "updated": "2026-05-15T21:46:59+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om0zj7a/", "content": "Good point. I’m definitely not thinking of being dramatic in any way. I just want to tell her face-to-face that she’s not exactly what she thinks she is." }, { "id": "t1_om1454u", "author": "/u/IrishDrifter86", "updated": "2026-05-15T22:12:35+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om1454u/", "content": "Ok that guy used an em dash" }, { "id": "t1_om1ehlt", "author": "/u/chatfarm", "updated": "2026-05-15T23:12:51+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om1ehlt/", "content": "too many boring responses here from the pocket protector types lol. burn it all down and go out swinging OP! it will be fleeting but a very rare opportunity in life to go out swinging. many of us are living vicariously through you." }, { "id": "t1_om28a4s", "author": "/u/antidentites", "updated": "2026-05-16T02:16:23+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om28a4s/", "content": "I’m in an extremely unique situation where I can do this without any serious consequences.\n It is intoxicating just thinking about leveling the playing field for just a fleeting moment.\n I’m very respectful normally and this specific manager demoted me for “being too nice” so I’d like to show her how I’ve improved on that :)" }, { "id": "t1_om1j51i", "author": "/u/Acrobatic-Cup37", "updated": "2026-05-15T23:40:17+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om1j51i/", "content": "You should! Speak up. Putting her in her place and helping her become more self-aware will help your coworkers too." }, { "id": "t1_om1dx7d", "author": "/u/Redwolfdc", "updated": "2026-05-15T23:09:31+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om1dx7d/", "content": "I agree don’t make your coworkers lives worse. But tbh I’ve been in situations like OP and when you got nothing to lose you can actually be the one to call out bullshit and speak up where those other coworkers might be too afraid." }, { "id": "t1_om2spog", "author": "/u/Elegant_Sinkhole", "updated": "2026-05-16T04:38:26+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om2spog/", "content": "A friend of mine is in Healthcare and a doctor who was fired sent a sheet cake that said "screw everyone." Apparently he wanted it to say "fuck you all" but the cake people wouldnt write that because they were also the ones who delivered it and that's how people heard the backstory. Anyway it made everyone laugh and they enjoyed it although nobody took a picture of it." }, { "id": "t1_om0s66w", "author": "/u/SuperSecretSpare", "updated": "2026-05-15T21:08:16+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om0s66w/", "content": "I'm going to go against the grain here. When I left my tech job under similar circumstances I sent out a department-wide email criticizing a manager that everybody knew was incompetent and mean. Very cathartic to professionally call them a piece of shit with no repercussions." }, { "id": "t1_om0x15u", "author": "/u/BillyBobChorton", "updated": "2026-05-15T21:33:37+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om0x15u/", "content": "Sounds glorious but also recognize the story will be you are just a disgruntled employee who quit and couldn’t cut it" }, { "id": "t1_om0zcjk", "author": "/u/SuperSecretSpare", "updated": "2026-05-15T21:45:58+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om0zcjk/", "content": "And? I'm 38 and retired. They can think whatever they want while they drive into work on Monday morning 😂" }, { "id": "t1_om1duwz", "author": "/u/wrldwdeu4ria", "updated": "2026-05-15T23:09:09+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om1duwz/", "content": "You won, regardless." }, { "id": "t1_om0zl7a", "author": "/u/BillyBobChorton", "updated": "2026-05-15T21:47:16+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om0zl7a/", "content": "Fair enough! You won the game" }, { "id": "t1_om1mojm", "author": "/u/Brostradamus-2", "updated": "2026-05-16T00:01:19+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om1mojm/", "content": "Goated response tbh. Love this." }, { "id": "t1_om9hfqz", "author": "/u/polarbearskill", "updated": "2026-05-17T06:37:14+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om9hfqz/", "content": "Holding anger directed at people shows they have power over you. I leaned this as I got older. “I hate you”, vs “I don’t think about you at all”. Which one reflects actual freedom?" }, { "id": "t1_om9hpxz", "author": "/u/SuperSecretSpare", "updated": "2026-05-17T06:39:43+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om9hpxz/", "content": "" If you have hate in your heart, let it out."\n\n- Clayton Bigsby" }, { "id": "t1_om9nrx4", "author": "/u/antidentites", "updated": "2026-05-17T07:32:59+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om9nrx4/", "content": "This is my exact situation, but I’m even older.\n Hats off to you, kind sir." }, { "id": "t1_omllfr8", "author": "/u/bastarmashawarma", "updated": "2026-05-19T02:40:30+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/omllfr8/", "content": "Kind Sir, can I ask how? I’m 36 and and in tech and while my retirement accounts are doing well, I don’t have nearly enough in “right now “ money to retire. How do you get to be in such a great position at 38?" }, { "id": "t1_om0ydsp", "author": "/u/N0Tbanned", "updated": "2026-05-15T21:40:49+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om0ydsp/", "content": "How would that be the story if everyone else thinks the same?" }, { "id": "t1_om0zrpj", "author": "/u/BillyBobChorton", "updated": "2026-05-15T21:48:14+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om0zrpj/", "content": "People may “think the same” when they talk to you but if they’re staying in said company they’re playing the same game most likely" }, { "id": "t1_om0qcyr", "author": "/u/Conscious_Life_8032", "updated": "2026-05-15T20:59:14+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om0qcyr/", "content": "Is there a middle ground? Maybe some constructive yet direct feedback in the exit interview." }, { "id": "t1_om0smmt", "author": "/u/antidentites", "updated": "2026-05-15T21:10:36+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om0smmt/", "content": "This is more of what I’m thinking.\n I’m not really the type to be nasty to anyone, but my manager is a special type of evil and has screwed so many of my co-workers that I hate to see the injustice here." }, { "id": "t1_om0tq73", "author": "/u/phibetared", "updated": "2026-05-15T21:16:17+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om0tq73/", "content": "The HR exit interview is not for your benefit. It is for the company's benefit. For one, they want to document anything in case you decide to sue them. Or they decided to sue you. You say something bad about your (soon to be) ex boss, she might make some outlandish claim against you.\n If you have a list of things you can document (prove) that were evil, you can give that to the HR person if you wish. Or send it to them later. Tell them, "if you want me to I'll document and send you a letter". That way YOU control what is written. If you talk in HR, they can/will construe what you say however they wish. Only if you have good reasons (e.g. helping someone you like who deserves a promotion and has been screwed by the woman) should you talk much in the exit interview.\n You don't know why they hired her and/or keep her on. You don't know who she knows." }, { "id": "t1_om0whis", "author": "/u/BillyBobChorton", "updated": "2026-05-15T21:30:43+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om0whis/", "content": "They likely know how to play the game with HR if that’s true. Some people are good at being manipulative that way." }, { "id": "t1_om0ugb3", "author": "/u/StrebLab", "updated": "2026-05-15T21:20:01+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om0ugb3/", "content": "Yeah, you could be blunt but not unhinged and it would probably be more effective.\n "In all honesty, I am leaving this position largely because of your management style. I don't think it is effective and I would expect more employee turnover if you don't find a better way to do it."" }, { "id": "t1_om0q6ul", "author": "/u/danfirst", "updated": "2026-05-15T20:58:23+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om0q6ul/", "content": "It really is never worth it. Also I think those are n dashes, so you're ok!" }, { "id": "t1_om0tmqn", "author": "/u/BrownGravy", "updated": "2026-05-15T21:15:46+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om0tmqn/", "content": "Aren't they just dashes? Could be wrong but pretty sure n dashes are slightly bigger. IDK why I felt the urge to comment this, my life is meaningless" }, { "id": "t1_om293fn", "author": "/u/xaraca", "updated": "2026-05-16T02:21:33+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om293fn/", "content": "It’s a hyphen\n - hyphen\n – en dash\n — em dash" }, { "id": "t1_om0w1zp", "author": "/u/danfirst", "updated": "2026-05-15T21:28:27+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om0w1zp/", "content": "Ha, I could be wrong but I thought a regular single dash is the width of an n, and the wider em dash is the width of an m. Most people don't use the wider version during regular informal conversations, that's why the ai ones stand out so much." }, { "id": "t1_om0rf8t", "author": "/u/Key_Cheetah7982", "updated": "2026-05-15T21:04:31+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om0rf8t/", "content": "I GOT A LOT OF PROBLEMS WITH YOU PEOPLE!!!\n And now you’re going to hear about them…." }, { "id": "t1_om17gf3", "author": "/u/DigmonsDrill", "updated": "2026-05-15T22:31:43+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om17gf3/", "content": "Just realized from OP's name he is an anti-dentite." }, { "id": "t1_om298xw", "author": "/u/antidentites", "updated": "2026-05-16T02:22:33+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om298xw/", "content": "NO SOUP FOR YOU" }, { "id": "t1_om1pgq5", "author": "/u/Crafty-Isopod45", "updated": "2026-05-16T00:18:16+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om1pgq5/", "content": "Those aren’t em dashes. Those would be wider. - is a hyphen, – is an en dash, and — is an em dash." }, { "id": "t1_om0qxac", "author": "/u/WhirlyDurvy", "updated": "2026-05-15T21:02:00+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om0qxac/", "content": "Be the better person" }, { "id": "t1_om0tuq6", "author": "/u/Altruistic_Durian147", "updated": "2026-05-15T21:16:56+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om0tuq6/", "content": "Boooo no. Do it for all the people still trapped there! Maybe it will make some difference for them." }, { "id": "t1_om140gu", "author": "/u/exnooyorka", "updated": "2026-05-15T22:11:50+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om140gu/", "content": "No matter what you say or do or give as a reason why you are leaving, it never "teaches the company a lesson".\n Nothing you can do as an individual worker will change anything after you leave.\n I have seen entire departments (4-6 ppl) quit in an orchestrated manner and the company just shrugs their shoulders and posts the openings.\n You want real revenge? Hit the lottery (or otherwise become blindingly wealthy) and orchestrate a hostile takeover of the company.\n Once you have a controlling interest, HR now works for you and you can manage anyone you want right out the door. As a bonus, HR will lay out exactly how you can do it without being successfully sued.\n But once you've got a high nine-figure-to-low-ten-figure net worth you'll realize all that anger is mysteriously gone.\n That's when you realize the best revenge is living well, even if you don't get to live out this fantasy.\n Quit, let it go and move on to your new life.\n Realizing every morning that this old boss still has to get up every day and invent new ways to make everyone miserable to get her rocks off is indeed the best revenge." }, { "id": "t1_om2abu7", "author": "/u/antidentites", "updated": "2026-05-16T02:29:29+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om2abu7/", "content": "I work for a trillion dollar company, so I won’t be able to take it over for at least another year or two" }, { "id": "t1_om40ewv", "author": "/u/exnooyorka", "updated": "2026-05-16T10:59:47+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om40ewv/", "content": "So you understand my point about the futility of seeking revenge against someone in a historically large corporate structure.\n I'm not saying there aren't success stories there, I believe there are. Go check out /r/pettyrevenge for some ideas if you just can't bring yourself to let it go.\n But once you choose the path of being an employee you give up a fair amount of control over your own destiny vs. being an entrepreneur and owning your own business (and even then you never really have total control because, market forces).\n When you accept there are going to be times that you'll have to eat a shit sandwich but in exchange your paycheck and benefits still keep rolling in on a regular basis, it can help your mindset during those tough times.\n In such a large organization you might be able to move around to a less toxic group with a better boss, or you can choose the path you're taking which is just exit to a completely different company. That's the part of the conversation you get to control.\n Until and unless you're willing to take the risks that owners take to be able to assert the kind of control over an organization which prohibits or eliminates what you're experiencing, or you're willing to climb the corporate ladder to where you become a significant decision maker and can run a good portion of the company in a way where you don't tolerate corporate bullshit, you need to accept that your career as someone else's employee will see periods of being treated well and periods of being treated poorly.\n But through it all, you still get regular pay and benefits.\n It's all about the tradeoffs." }, { "id": "t1_om0rchg", "author": "/u/leathakkor", "updated": "2026-05-15T21:04:08+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om0rchg/", "content": "If you're in a meeting with HR and they ask you why you're leaving you, tell them. You can be honest but professional.\n But if they don't ask, don't volunteer it. They don't actually want to know and they won't do anything. The only thing that will happen is that manager will start taking it out on other people. Which They almost certainly will do anyway. Because they have one less person to be shitty too. So they'll start handing out your beatings to everyone else anyway." }, { "id": "t1_om0stsm", "author": "/u/antidentites", "updated": "2026-05-15T21:11:37+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om0stsm/", "content": "The issue with this is that I’m leaving many friends behind." }, { "id": "t1_om0tsmc", "author": "/u/leathakkor", "updated": "2026-05-15T21:16:38+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om0tsmc/", "content": "That may be the case. But she may be shitty to the people that you're friends with once you're gone. Because they're friends with you.\n I've had literal proof that managers were breaking the law before. They eventually got fired but not because of what I did to report them. Companies will always side with the employee that's still there because that's where their liability exists. (In My experience)" }, { "id": "t1_om0u3qh", "author": "/u/Altruistic_Durian147", "updated": "2026-05-15T21:18:13+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om0u3qh/", "content": "Could you “go out swinging” in a way that benefits those friends? I imagine this person is difficult for them as well? My friend recently left our job and filed an ethics complaint on her way out and I’m so grateful." }, { "id": "t1_om0wjoq", "author": "/u/antidentites", "updated": "2026-05-15T21:31:02+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om0wjoq/", "content": "Yes! I’m going to file an HR complaint for sure, which admittedly is much more effective." }, { "id": "t1_om15xbc", "author": "/u/exnooyorka", "updated": "2026-05-15T22:22:50+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om15xbc/", "content": "Sometimes the best revenge takes a little while.\n Find a good headhunter (or two) and explain the situation.\n Provide LinkedIn profiles of all your friends to the headhunter.\n The headhunters will do the rest, by finding all your friends new jobs.\n You don't say anything, let the headhunter "spontaneously" reach out with the opportunity. But stay in touch with your friends the be ready to counsel your friends to explore the opportunity and move on.\n Let the toxic boss deal with the fallout of losing her entire team in the space of a few months.\n If you play it right, you may even get some referral bonus money out of it.\n Your friends all escape, you know it was you who decimated the department. Toxic former boss has to deal with the headache of intervirwing, hiring and training.\n New folks will recognize toxicity and jump quickly because they have so little invested.\n As difficult as it may be, resist the urge to take credit. Just leave her wondering what the hell happened. Trust me, that will be much worse than her having you to fixate on as the reason.\n It's the long game for sure, but it's more effective than figuratively going postal on her in the exit interview on the way out the door." }, { "id": "t1_om0stq1", "author": "/u/csmikkels", "updated": "2026-05-15T21:11:37+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om0stq1/", "content": "I wrote an email outlining concerns with the department and my boss (SVP) to her boss (C Level) with specific examples and feedback others couldn’t say out loud. And I asked him to keep it private. Did it on the last day.\n My thought process was enough people had concerns and I had nothing to lose. If it helped in a future decision or to look into things or it helps my colleagues, why not.\n I joined and left as a high performer and wasn’t political, so I know if I said something, he would at least have to think about it." }, { "id": "t1_om0ubs7", "author": "/u/Gandalf-and-Frodo", "updated": "2026-05-15T21:19:22+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om0ubs7/", "content": "Leave a NASTY glassdoor review at the very least to warn others about her." }, { "id": "t1_om3vi4n", "author": "/u/accidentalchainsaw", "updated": "2026-05-16T10:19:24+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om3vi4n/", "content": "Also leave a company review on a subreddit linking to glassdoor. You know for SEO." }, { "id": "t1_om0qtp6", "author": "/u/Quiet-Antelope4967", "updated": "2026-05-15T21:01:30+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om0qtp6/", "content": "I’ll be doing the same. But just quit same day no notice and say it was because of them. No point in giving all the reasons. Fucks with them more" }, { "id": "t1_om23ops", "author": "/u/Amazing-Basket-136", "updated": "2026-05-16T01:47:31+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om23ops/", "content": "Why don’t you just keep a record and use it to sue employer?" }, { "id": "t1_om0rgpx", "author": "/u/Badaboom1212", "updated": "2026-05-15T21:04:43+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om0rgpx/", "content": "If it feels good to say, you probably shouldn’t say it. Nothing gained by doing it, and the world is a small place sometimes." }, { "id": "t1_om0rwod", "author": "/u/Key_Cheetah7982", "updated": "2026-05-15T21:06:57+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om0rwod/", "content": "Costanza it up man. Live my dream for me.\n Oh yeah? Well the jerk store called. They’re running out of you!" }, { "id": "t1_om0sf4b", "author": "/u/latchkeylessons", "updated": "2026-05-15T21:09:32+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om0sf4b/", "content": "I've done this before to force their hand and it came out as expected, but I also had another gig lined up so with severance you can double-down on salary for a bit and of course that's nice. All that to say, if you do have something lined up then go for it - I'll disagree with others and say it's worth it for the emotions.\n If you don't have something lined up, know that your job will end quickly. I'd argue as others may that the sweeter revenge is just to DGAF and do as you please at work anyway without telling anyone off. It will get the point across to your boss regardless and if they are spineless then you'll be able to go on not giving a fuck for quite a long time still. Easier said than done when you are frustrated, I realize, but it is the better play for all involved if you can." }, { "id": "t1_om29il1", "author": "/u/antidentites", "updated": "2026-05-16T02:24:15+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om29il1/", "content": "I have a package to leave and cannot be PIP’d during this time, so it’s a very rare situation where I’m fairly well protected." }, { "id": "t1_om0sr9d", "author": "/u/DeIzorenToer", "updated": "2026-05-15T21:11:16+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om0sr9d/", "content": "The right thing to do is tell her. And potentially file a formal complaint with HR before you quit.\n All these bridge burners are wrong. If she really is a toxic manager why should that go unreported? Do you want other people to be subjected to the same thing you were? Don't cower behind politeness, fear or some other societal norm. You are FIREing ffs, you don't need this woman's reference.\n Just don't burn down the office." }, { "id": "t1_om0yyk4", "author": "/u/antidentites", "updated": "2026-05-15T21:43:54+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om0yyk4/", "content": "I love most people in the office and will miss them dearly.\n You’re absolutely right on all fronts." }, { "id": "t1_om0te5a", "author": "/u/IrregardlesslyCurect", "updated": "2026-05-15T21:14:31+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om0te5a/", "content": "I agree with a lot of the people who say let it go as it will not come across the way you want.\n However, maybe just start calling out the BS (in a professional manner), everyone like thats person! Ask the questions everyone is scared to ask, that kind of thing." }, { "id": "t1_om0xxc4", "author": "/u/Alarming-Mix3809", "updated": "2026-05-15T21:38:22+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om0xxc4/", "content": "Just quit and move on with your life" }, { "id": "t1_om0rlct", "author": "/u/Mundane-Outside-6713", "updated": "2026-05-15T21:05:22+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om0rlct/", "content": "Fantasize about it and write the email copy and send it to yourself or something but don't burn the bridge. Be selfish, keep the bridge in case you need it later." }, { "id": "t1_om0tnlk", "author": "/u/Logical_consequences", "updated": "2026-05-15T21:15:54+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om0tnlk/", "content": "I thought you were going to retire and start…Swinging 😲" }, { "id": "t1_om21wub", "author": "/u/BillyBobChorton", "updated": "2026-05-16T01:36:22+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om21wub/", "content": "That goes without saying" }, { "id": "t1_om244bv", "author": "/u/Curious_Wanderer_7", "updated": "2026-05-16T01:50:17+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om244bv/", "content": "😂They do say you need to retire to something" }, { "id": "t1_om0trj8", "author": "/u/Straight-Part-5898", "updated": "2026-05-15T21:16:28+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om0trj8/", "content": "Not worth it. Take the high road. Resign with class and honor, offer to stay for a reasonable transition period and to assist in transitioning your responsibilities to whomever they chose to assume them from you.\n I just 'retired' myself a few months ago (M56) after 30++ years in tech. I was in a pretty senior role leading a highly-visible business transformation program where I regularly interacted with C-suite executives. But because of the slow accumulation of bullshit corporate politics and weak leadership (flip-flopping on priorities, not providing air cover, constantly re-thinking recent decisions) I was placed in an impossible position and was unable to maintain momentum on the effort. In early January I informed my manager that I was going to leave. He freaked out because frankly there was nobody else with my skillset and experience to assume my role.\n He offered a 6-figure retention bonus if I agreed to stay until the end of this year. I thanked him for the offer, but politely declined. He looked at me like I had two heads. I told him I was at the point in my career where I wasn't working for a paycheck anymore, and I simply wasn't in a position where I could be successful.\n In the end I agreed to a 10 week transition, even though I was at wits end and wanted out ASAP. During that 10 weeks I ended up making three trips to Europe to do in-person transitions with many of the company's leaders in that region. Frankly it was a grind, but I wanted to be as flexible as possible and go out with nothing but professionalism. I left the company in mid-March.\n Take the high road. You'll feel better about yourself in the long run." }, { "id": "t1_om0ucyc", "author": "/u/Kinnins0n", "updated": "2026-05-15T21:19:32+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om0ucyc/", "content": "Serves no purpose. No one ever walks out of a talking to thinking “Wow, I am an asshole, this guy showed me”." }, { "id": "t1_om0yf3r", "author": "/u/SergeantPoopyWeiner", "updated": "2026-05-15T21:41:00+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om0yf3r/", "content": "You could lay out your perspective to her boss. I did something similar once and it actually paid off for both me and the remaining employees in the long run. YMMV" }, { "id": "t1_om0qj58", "author": "/u/qwertyq1q1q", "updated": "2026-05-15T21:00:03+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om0qj58/", "content": "Go out guns blazing!! That’s the way to go and how I’ll be going out!" }, { "id": "t1_om0tkin", "author": "/u/antidentites", "updated": "2026-05-15T21:15:27+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om0tkin/", "content": "Not sure why you’re being downvoted for this, as it’s your prerogative to go out however you want.\n I would’ve NEVER considered doing this until working for my current manager, who really is evil.\n For example, she was adamant I fire someone on my team instead of giving him severance for some minor missteps. She did this just out of spite without any real reason. Just nasty." }, { "id": "t1_om0x9kv", "author": "/u/Im_tracer_bullet", "updated": "2026-05-15T21:34:51+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om0x9kv/", "content": "Because it's a child's mentality and response, that's why.\n It's also encouraging to see how many adults chose to offer reasonable replies, though.\n This sub is an outlier in many ways...this is another example." }, { "id": "t1_om0qm9s", "author": "/u/OnlyThePhantomKnows", "updated": "2026-05-15T21:00:29+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om0qm9s/", "content": "Burning bridges is almost always a bad idea.\n Lets say you barista fire. You apply for a job at the local Lowes. Manager looks up your job history and sees that his wife has a friend working at <ex company>. So he has her chat with her friend. What about antidentites ?\n Her friend says, "Whoa! I still remember the day he quit. He went off Costanza-style. Now the woman he went off on is very catty, but I haven't seen anything like what he did!" And your job application at Lowes gets lost.\n The world is a small place." }, { "id": "t1_om0x9cy", "author": "/u/BillyBobChorton", "updated": "2026-05-15T21:34:49+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om0x9cy/", "content": "lol part time retail ain’t checking references" }, { "id": "t1_om0rfe8", "author": "/u/Smart_Policy5214", "updated": "2026-05-15T21:04:32+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om0rfe8/", "content": "Why would you want to do this? It's bad for your reputation and sounds embarrassing. Just leave." }, { "id": "t1_om0ste0", "author": "", "updated": "2026-05-15T21:11:34+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om0ste0/", "content": "[deleted]" }, { "id": "t1_om0t8w1", "author": "/u/MarchDry4261", "updated": "2026-05-15T21:13:46+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om0t8w1/", "content": "Just quiet quit instead. Don’t meet your deadlines, chill on Reddit. If you get fired, you can collect unemployment too" }, { "id": "t1_om0uzjy", "author": "/u/labrador45", "updated": "2026-05-15T21:22:49+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om0uzjy/", "content": "Go ahead and do whatever you want. However, know that you will make zero impact in doing so and make yourself look an ass." }, { "id": "t1_om0ugei", "author": "/u/probabletrump", "updated": "2026-05-15T21:20:02+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om0ugei/", "content": "No call, no show quit is a much bigger flex than telling her what you really think. It'll have an impact on her too.\n If someone calls and asks you why you just suddenly abandoned your job tell them calmly that working for her was too unbearable and no longer worth what they were paying.\n That will make your point way better than any prepared speech." }, { "id": "t1_om0xk5c", "author": "/u/StretcherEctum", "updated": "2026-05-15T21:36:25+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om0xk5c/", "content": "Definitely worth it. DO IT. Update us.\n RemindMe! 7 days" }, { "id": "t1_om1qg3s", "author": "/u/Shivdaddy1", "updated": "2026-05-16T00:24:19+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om1qg3s/", "content": "Go out big. Record it as well. We are cheering for you." }, { "id": "t1_om1r1x3", "author": "/u/antidentites", "updated": "2026-05-16T00:28:07+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om1r1x3/", "content": "I knew I could count on your support, ShivDaddy!" }, { "id": "t1_om1v2ao", "author": "/u/Connect-Awareness658", "updated": "2026-05-16T00:53:24+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om1v2ao/", "content": "Pack up and leave. Won't do any good confronting her, she doesn't care, and exit interviews go nowhere, it is like peeing yourself in dark pants, warm feeling that no one notices. Best revenge is living well." }, { "id": "t1_om1w5nf", "author": "/u/NeedABetterPillow", "updated": "2026-05-16T01:00:08+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om1w5nf/", "content": "Not worth it." }, { "id": "t1_om1wd8i", "author": "/u/Mario-X777", "updated": "2026-05-16T01:01:27+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om1wd8i/", "content": "Never worth it. Chances are you may say something too much or regret it later. And it is never doing any good, besides temporarily emotional relief.\n You are better off on letting it go." }, { "id": "t1_om1wrm3", "author": "/u/ValuableGroceries", "updated": "2026-05-16T01:03:57+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om1wrm3/", "content": "Nah don't embarass yourself and just show everyone you're a guy who can't control his emotions.\n What you should do is mail her a glitter bomb or a box of dog shit. You can do it anonymously. Wait a year though. Google it up!" }, { "id": "t1_om26mcn", "author": "/u/Flashy-Bandicoot889", "updated": "2026-05-16T02:06:00+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om26mcn/", "content": "Not a fan of this approach. Blowing up never solves or changes anything and 3 days later everyone forgets about it and is back to the grind. Better to go after her professionally via HR. Document the garbage and take her down that way." }, { "id": "t1_om2n8ud", "author": "/u/StandardAd7812", "updated": "2026-05-16T03:57:52+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om2n8ud/", "content": "Telling her is pointless.\n Tell her boss." }, { "id": "t1_om2s6ww", "author": "/u/ancom328", "updated": "2026-05-16T04:34:24+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om2s6ww/", "content": "Speak now or forever hold your peace. This is your one and only chance to do it. Give them hell, and make sure they understand they are your equal and not any more special than you are." }, { "id": "t1_om2vdmh", "author": "/u/lightnoveltitlehere", "updated": "2026-05-16T04:59:29+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om2vdmh/", "content": "Do not burn a bridge. It's never worth it. It sounds great and will feel great in the moment but will haunt you for a long time. Nowadays, I always choose peace of mind" }, { "id": "t1_om4cmby", "author": "/u/BigEdsHairMayo", "updated": "2026-05-16T12:25:29+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om4cmby/", "content": "If you want to actually have an impact, you should document the abuses with HR and specifically cite her as the reason you are leaving.\n Companies spend a lot of money hiring and training a new employee. If this lady's toxicity is causing higher turnover, she is a liability." }, { "id": "t1_om4i20n", "author": "/u/disillusionedthinker", "updated": "2026-05-16T12:59:04+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om4i20n/", "content": "Let the revenge be served cold. Document everything. Gather hard proof. Ideally, catch her violating actual employment law or minimally corporate policy. Report her to HR and/or state department of labor." }, { "id": "t1_om4ragy", "author": "/u/antidentites", "updated": "2026-05-16T13:51:44+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om4ragy/", "content": "She’s been reported to HR before, so now she’s very savvy about not putting these things in writing and ensuring that most of her sh!tt!est actions are done 1:1.\n But over time she develops patterns that are harder to hide, which is what I’m focusing on with HR.\n So yes, the dish will be served nice and cold to HR but with proper documentation that is apparent to everyone." }, { "id": "t1_om0tbel", "author": "/u/AnotherWahoo", "updated": "2026-05-15T21:14:08+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om0tbel/", "content": "Th best revenge is living well." }, { "id": "t1_om0tn9j", "author": "/u/Altruistic_Durian147", "updated": "2026-05-15T21:15:51+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om0tn9j/", "content": "Pleeaaassssseeee do it!! I want to do this at my current job so bad but I’m not there yet.\n For all of us who can’t (yet) please let them have it!" }, { "id": "t1_om0xmoq", "author": "/u/antidentites", "updated": "2026-05-15T21:36:47+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om0xmoq/", "content": "If I do it, I’ll record it (I just need to confirm that’s legal in my state)!" }, { "id": "t1_om0ujbz", "author": "/u/ElChanclaso", "updated": "2026-05-15T21:20:27+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om0ujbz/", "content": "There's nothing to gain tbh, so I would just keep it professional. Sorry, boring answer 🤷‍♂️" }, { "id": "t1_om0ujsn", "author": "/u/antidentites", "updated": "2026-05-15T21:20:32+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om0ujsn/", "content": "I really appreciate the perspective, and so fast!\n I wouldn’t go full hog on her, but definitely want to let her know how I feel - just like she’s done to me with her ultimate power as my manager.\n For example, she was adamant I fire someone on my team instead of giving him severance. She had no good reason for it and it really impacted this kids mental health.\n I feel like I have a small chance to give her feedback that no one else gives her since she’s the leader of the team.\n I think it’s just a matter of how I deliver the news." }, { "id": "t1_om0uqh2", "author": "/u/plawwell", "updated": "2026-05-15T21:21:30+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om0uqh2/", "content": "When you leave then you will likely quickly forget about this person. I would just move on and not expend any energy on such a toxic person." }, { "id": "t1_om182mf", "author": "/u/antidentites", "updated": "2026-05-15T22:35:21+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om182mf/", "content": "I won’t forget about this person for at least a few years." }, { "id": "t1_om0uzzr", "author": "/u/temerairevm", "updated": "2026-05-15T21:22:53+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om0uzzr/", "content": "On the dashes: there’s a reason AI does it. It’s impersonating you. Stay real. It will move on to something else.\n Don’t burn the bridge. You never know when something comes back around and acting like a decent adult will serve you well. Everyone knows she’s an asshole. You don’t need to call attention to it. She might even like that." }, { "id": "t1_om0v145", "author": "/u/Trojann2", "updated": "2026-05-15T21:23:03+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om0v145/", "content": "Burning bridges is damn near never worth it." }, { "id": "t1_om0v25o", "author": "/u/theducks123", "updated": "2026-05-15T21:23:12+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om0v25o/", "content": "Do it, haha. You can make it advantageous to you. Figure a way to do it to get yourself fired, but not go against your principles. You will probably get a package on your way out." }, { "id": "t1_om0w6ki", "author": "/u/jovialfaction", "updated": "2026-05-15T21:29:07+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om0w6ki/", "content": "Literally no point in blowing up in her face. She'll just think you're unhinged and if she is as bad as you say she'll probably even enjoy knowing she really did get to you.\n I would consider a professional email to her N+1 as you exit tho. Explaining some of the issues you had with this manager with concrete examples and say that it ultimately led you to leave the company, and you wished it didn't come to it. If it's legitimate, it will most likely show up at her next performance review and will be used as a data point if there's more attrition / low employee satisfaction score." }, { "id": "t1_om0w8yp", "author": "/u/Kent89052", "updated": "2026-05-15T21:29:28+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om0w8yp/", "content": "You could just misbehave so that they are forced to fire you" }, { "id": "t1_om12sq1", "author": "/u/No-Refuse7753", "updated": "2026-05-15T22:04:53+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om12sq1/", "content": "You need to email her boss and few levels above and say this is why you’re leaving. If you just tell her, you gain nothing" }, { "id": "t1_om18lmg", "author": "/u/brianmcg321", "updated": "2026-05-15T22:38:26+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om18lmg/", "content": "Infect the computer system with a virus so all the half cents get rounded off go into your account. Be careful about mundane details like the decimal point." }, { "id": "t1_om29t47", "author": "/u/antidentites", "updated": "2026-05-16T02:26:06+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om29t47/", "content": "“What exactly would you say do do here?”" }, { "id": "t1_om1d058", "author": "/u/denverpilot", "updated": "2026-05-15T23:04:10+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om1d058/", "content": "I was well enough regarded by uppers once that when a middle fired me the uppers called me asking why. So I told em. She and her boss were gone the next week.\n Sometimes they don’t know what they don’t know about their middles. You do with that knowledge what you will.\n I didn’t initiate the phone call. And I told the truth and stopped there without embellishment. I could hear their anger at the follow up questions.\n Totally your call." }, { "id": "t1_om1tipo", "author": "/u/Roticap", "updated": "2026-05-16T00:43:42+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om1tipo/", "content": "those are en dashes. em dashes are the wide ones" }, { "id": "t1_om24xtm", "author": "/u/One_Talk_3410", "updated": "2026-05-16T01:55:27+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om24xtm/", "content": "They aren’t worth the effort. I vote to ghost them and leave them holding the bag on any projects you are doing." }, { "id": "t1_om29dxq", "author": "/u/ski-stoke-1988", "updated": "2026-05-16T02:23:25+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om29dxq/", "content": "There are many ways to get revenge, but success is the best. A brick of coke showing up at a traffic stop is a close second." }, { "id": "t1_om2ct3o", "author": "/u/sumatranorangutan", "updated": "2026-05-16T02:45:33+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om2ct3o/", "content": "What’s the point of having F U money if you don’t say F U? Exercise your superpower! I might even take a shit on her desk but don’t do that haha" }, { "id": "t1_om2dxjc", "author": "/u/antidentites", "updated": "2026-05-16T02:52:57+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om2dxjc/", "content": "Well said. I’m so tired of being treated like garbage, what’s 1 minute of showing them how it feels?\n I know I should take the high ground here, but I’m tired of kissing ass or letting things slide." }, { "id": "t1_om2erpv", "author": "/u/3BlindMice1", "updated": "2026-05-16T02:58:31+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om2erpv/", "content": "Just report to HR that she's creating a hostile workplace environment and that you can't focus on your work with her always making trouble for you. Then, deliberately do less, but still everything you're required to do. Send HR an email once a week or so until they let you go. You'll end up with higher severance that way. That'll do more harm to her in the long run than any exit fuck you that you can give her" }, { "id": "t1_om4k54m", "author": "/u/trungdok", "updated": "2026-05-16T13:11:18+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om4k54m/", "content": "Don't fight with your emotion. Put on your big boy pants and document her activities, bring them to HR, higher up, and possibly send out emails to the whole team with questions about whether this is the general best practice, etc. Curate the reports with as little emotion as possible and try to be factual." }, { "id": "t1_om4ovna", "author": "/u/antidentites", "updated": "2026-05-16T13:38:20+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om4ovna/", "content": "100%. I’ve definitely been documenting her actions for months now and have previously reported her to HR leveraging this documentation.\n The circumstances have changed since now I’m leaving and don’t have to play the game like I did when I still wanted my job." }, { "id": "t1_om4ste6", "author": "/u/Fluffy-Mud-8945", "updated": "2026-05-16T14:00:03+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om4ste6/", "content": "Those aren't em dashes." }, { "id": "t1_om5hcnu", "author": "/u/Accurate-Neck6933", "updated": "2026-05-16T16:04:16+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om5hcnu/", "content": "There’s another choice and that is to play the evil long game my friend. Don’t go out swinging. Instead, a middle finger 🖕 the next time she would have needed something you created. I don’t know your job there but as a teacher it would equate to taking all the lesson plans I made. Giving away all my supplies so they would have to set up from scratch for the next person. Deleting all my files that showed how I ran programs and events. Hiding needed equipment in random places. I wouldn’t do that of course because I like my bosses but I’m sure you could think of some creative ideas!" }, { "id": "t1_omlxtcs", "author": "/u/bmfu121", "updated": "2026-05-19T03:54:59+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/omlxtcs/", "content": "Exit interview. We had many mid levels quit abruptly d/t the office manager. It only took 2 of them mentioning something about her at their exits that got her fired" }, { "id": "t1_om0s63i", "author": "/u/Sactown2005", "updated": "2026-05-15T21:08:15+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om0s63i/", "content": "Costanza!!!!!!!" }, { "id": "t1_om0s7u1", "author": "/u/ImaginaryHospital306", "updated": "2026-05-15T21:08:30+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om0s7u1/", "content": "Hold your tongue and leave knowing she probably can’t afford to do what you’re about to do even though she presumably makes more than you." }, { "id": "t1_om0slcl", "author": "/u/ShockerCheer", "updated": "2026-05-15T21:10:25+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om0slcl/", "content": "You are spending a lot of mental energy on a person who brings nothing to your life. This seems dumb" }, { "id": "t1_om0sz1i", "author": "/u/shantar4m", "updated": "2026-05-15T21:12:22+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om0sz1i/", "content": "I wouldn’t bother. She likely won’t care…" }, { "id": "t1_om0t1ci", "author": "/u/Reasonable-Owl-232", "updated": "2026-05-15T21:12:42+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om0t1ci/", "content": "Money doesn't buy class.\n Are you a high value person or a petty person?\n George Costanza was a stereotypical loser on the show." }, { "id": "t1_om0tbup", "author": "/u/Gabagoon5545", "updated": "2026-05-15T21:14:12+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om0tbup/", "content": "My ex boss really fucked me over hardcore. If I ever see that trash bag, they better cross the fucking street.\n OP .. shooters shoot." }, { "id": "t1_om0tdhp", "author": "", "updated": "2026-05-15T21:14:26+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om0tdhp/", "content": "[deleted]" }, { "id": "t1_om0x985", "author": "/u/antidentites", "updated": "2026-05-15T21:34:48+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om0x985/", "content": "For the first time in my life I have nothing to lose here financially as I’m already FIRE." }, { "id": "t1_om0y7dv", "author": "", "updated": "2026-05-15T21:39:52+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om0y7dv/", "content": "[deleted]" }, { "id": "t1_om0te60", "author": "/u/Traditional-Cover500", "updated": "2026-05-15T21:14:32+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om0te60/", "content": "Living well is the best revenge" }, { "id": "t1_om0txlu", "author": "/u/Thin-Ad-2529", "updated": "2026-05-15T21:17:21+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om0txlu/", "content": "Yup. Make it linger. You’re on your way out anyway. Earn some extra money while having fun. Alternate from being an ass to seeming obedient. Be schizo. Take her to the edge and back." }, { "id": "t1_om0u0ji", "author": "/u/jlv", "updated": "2026-05-15T21:17:46+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om0u0ji/", "content": "It’s a mistake to go directly to her. Schedule a meeting with your skip level and your hr rep and tell them you are quitting and then tell them why" }, { "id": "t1_om0xr5v", "author": "/u/antidentites", "updated": "2026-05-15T21:37:27+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om0xr5v/", "content": "She’s now my skip, so I met with her boss and did exactly that!" }, { "id": "t1_om0ubo8", "author": "/u/bitcoin_moon_wsb", "updated": "2026-05-15T21:19:21+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om0ubo8/", "content": "Fish in the desk but cut into little bits and put in hard to find places" }, { "id": "t1_om0ulrq", "author": "/u/Parking_Act3189", "updated": "2026-05-15T21:20:49+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om0ulrq/", "content": "You are better off doing things that get under their skin or are just annoying. Send 2 really long emails every day that are AI generated but also include some important information.\n Also contact HR and tell them that you have a medical disability that your manager isn't accommodating." }, { "id": "t1_om0uxhi", "author": "/u/Musical_Xena", "updated": "2026-05-15T21:22:31+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om0uxhi/", "content": "I think one of my job exits has some parallels to yours. In my case, I found that my team was frustrating me. It was sales, and once I was familiar with the products we sold, I was generally a top salesperson in the team rankings. I'd hear the other people make mistakes that annoyed me, like focusing on what they liked about the products instead of what the customer needed. The compensation structure discouraged me from helping them improve (there were monthly bonuses based on the rankings). So on my last day, I spent my shift basically writing a "how to" guide for sales that, while it didn't mention their specific misses, was definitely inspired by those misses. I emailed it to the whole team without saying a word.\n You could do something similar for your shitty manager: send a how-to guide for managing people, and CC HR, the whole team, or even the whole company if it's a small company. Frame it as "I want to take some time to share my learnings on this topic I'm case you find it helpful." Never directly reference how much they suck, but definitely draw inspiration for your advice from examples where they did.\n I bet you'd find it therapeutic. And you could separately tell HR and their manager the real reasons why you sent it, if you want to go all in." }, { "id": "t1_om0v5gd", "author": "/u/-shrug-", "updated": "2026-05-15T21:23:41+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om0v5gd/", "content": "She's psycho. It won't even break her skin to be told that, and she's a lot better than you are at lying so it's unlikely to matter if you tell anyone else either. I would focus on burning the bridges by literally never talking to her again on your way out. No meetings, no chats, just avoid her like she has measles. What are they going to do, fire you?" }, { "id": "t1_om11wkc", "author": "/u/antidentites", "updated": "2026-05-15T21:59:51+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om11wkc/", "content": "She is much better than I am at being a total A-hole." }, { "id": "t1_om0v6gc", "author": "/u/LouNadeau", "updated": "2026-05-15T21:23:50+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om0v6gc/", "content": "Be the better person." }, { "id": "t1_om0vkbh", "author": "/u/smedleyyee", "updated": "2026-05-15T21:25:51+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om0vkbh/", "content": "What did the manager DO?\n Like 20% of employees are crazy and 1% are batshit crazy, but most of them think they make perfect sense. So it's hard to figure out if YOU are the crazy one vs the MANAGER is the crazy one and then if this "life is hell" is actually bad enough where it's worth spending time Costanza'ing." }, { "id": "t1_om0ynov", "author": "/u/antidentites", "updated": "2026-05-15T21:42:17+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om0ynov/", "content": "She had me fire someone on the team with instead of giving him severance. There’s no reason to screw home over like that, but she absolutely relished in agreeing him over.\n That’s one of many reasons." }, { "id": "t1_om0vm7w", "author": "/u/Busy_Resort_3262", "updated": "2026-05-15T21:26:08+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om0vm7w/", "content": "I kept it classy as much I wanted to let my boss know that her mom damaged her massively." }, { "id": "t1_om0w21k", "author": "/u/Synaps4", "updated": "2026-05-15T21:28:28+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om0w21k/", "content": "Bring it up in a detailed document to HR instead." }, { "id": "t1_om0w5p3", "author": "/u/Ok_Location7161", "updated": "2026-05-15T21:29:00+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om0w5p3/", "content": "What do you gain ? Nothing. Leaving as quietly as possible is the best way." }, { "id": "t1_om0w8h4", "author": "/u/Bookworm1254", "updated": "2026-05-15T21:29:24+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om0w8h4/", "content": "Living well is the best revenge." }, { "id": "t1_om0wa7h", "author": "/u/BlackSterling", "updated": "2026-05-15T21:29:39+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om0wa7h/", "content": "I’d be honest on my exit interview. I wouldn’t mention the FIRE. The fact you would quit without a new job lined up would speak volumes. If they actually care." }, { "id": "t1_om0wdss", "author": "/u/OrneryWinter84", "updated": "2026-05-15T21:30:11+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om0wdss/", "content": "Can we get some more detail here, please?" }, { "id": "t1_om0wf2c", "author": "/u/Temporary_Car_1462", "updated": "2026-05-15T21:30:22+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om0wf2c/", "content": "If she has disturbed your mental health then If I were you, I would malign her name in every way possible, in office, in LinkedIn, writing emails to her manager, bad mouthing about her to whoever I meet at work lol. There’s nothing for you to lose. I would atleast make sure that she doesn’t make anyone else’s life hell. Her future or current reportees would thank you." }, { "id": "t1_om0wgjg", "author": "/u/take-for-granted", "updated": "2026-05-15T21:30:35+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om0wgjg/", "content": "Thank her She is the reason you are getting out of the normal 9 to 5.\n Really, thank her for being a pain in your ass, a $2 thank you card and some dead flowers will go a long way to show your appreciation." }, { "id": "t1_om0wvq6", "author": "/u/AustinSpartan", "updated": "2026-05-15T21:32:49+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om0wvq6/", "content": "Ask yourself this one question. And then what?" }, { "id": "t1_om0xka8", "author": "/u/SandSubstantial9427", "updated": "2026-05-15T21:36:26+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om0xka8/", "content": "You’re probably better off getting fired." }, { "id": "t1_om0xq52", "author": "/u/lanomad", "updated": "2026-05-15T21:37:18+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om0xq52/", "content": "Best Idea is to underperform very very slowly and force them to put you on a PIP or some kind of long painful termination and then sue them for distress. You can do this cause you don't care anymore and its kind of fun" }, { "id": "t1_om0xvhl", "author": "/u/586WingsFan", "updated": "2026-05-15T21:38:05+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om0xvhl/", "content": "Make them fire you. Then, when they do, let it all out" }, { "id": "t1_om0y2xm", "author": "/u/SergeantPoopyWeiner", "updated": "2026-05-15T21:39:12+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om0y2xm/", "content": "The highest form of self actualization is not letting the actions or behavior of others distract you from your goals in life.\n Who gives a rat's ass what she thinks? Spend your limited time and energy on things that matter." }, { "id": "t1_om0yap4", "author": "/u/jshen", "updated": "2026-05-15T21:40:22+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om0yap4/", "content": "Here's the way I think about decisions. What's the range and likelihood of possible benefits to this decision and what's the range and likelihood of possible negative consequences.\n In this case there is NO benefit and possible negative outcomes. Don't do it." }, { "id": "t1_om0ynvs", "author": "/u/bestdogisTbo", "updated": "2026-05-15T21:42:18+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om0ynvs/", "content": "The best revenge is living well. :)" }, { "id": "t1_om0yopi", "author": "/u/QuirkyAd40", "updated": "2026-05-15T21:42:26+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om0yopi/", "content": "Ignore the sensible comments. Go out swinging, it feels great." }, { "id": "t1_om0zdi5", "author": "/u/66NickS", "updated": "2026-05-15T21:46:07+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om0zdi5/", "content": "I’d say go out fighting for your team/coworkers. Stand up to the manager in public forums in defense of others. Become the big giant target because you’re the difficult one.\n If you’re lucky, maybe they’ll give you a nice severance to go away. Or maybe the manager either corrects their ways (unlikely) or leaves." }, { "id": "t1_om0zney", "author": "/u/1nt3rn3tC0wb0y", "updated": "2026-05-15T21:47:35+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om0zney/", "content": "I've been there for sure. I never quit because my manager got demoted a few weeks before pulling the trigger and I decided to stick around. You really don't have much to gain other than feeling kind of good for a short period of time I guess. I wouldn't recommend.\n I considered just giving my notice to HR and having her find out from them, which seemed like a clear fuck you to the manager without being too unprofessional." }, { "id": "t1_om0zrol", "author": "/u/day_tripper", "updated": "2026-05-15T21:48:13+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om0zrol/", "content": "I wrote a letter to management and cc’d a few on my way out.\n All it does is make anyone who might agree with you keep their distance in order to avoid repercussions and anyone who disagrees or doesn’t see it from your point of view will just think of you as unhinged.\n No one with any brain cells needs your insights anyway. They already know." }, { "id": "t1_om108yq", "author": "/u/Timely_Sand_6162", "updated": "2026-05-15T21:50:49+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om108yq/", "content": "You should provide her manager the feedback about her if you are anyway leaving. But most likely her management chain will not take any actions unless it’s reported as deliberate harassment." }, { "id": "t1_om10zsy", "author": "/u/MEDICARE_FOR_ALL", "updated": "2026-05-15T21:54:51+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om10zsy/", "content": "I'd report her behavior to her boss and then quit and give no notice.\n If you want to be extra petty you could just ... Not work until she figures out you're not working and forced to pip/fire you. Maybe do the bare minimum (which should just be responding to emails or whatever)\n Yolo" }, { "id": "t1_om1109a", "author": "/u/greattimes99", "updated": "2026-05-15T21:54:55+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om1109a/", "content": "No company does exit interviews anymore, do they?" }, { "id": "t1_om111b2", "author": "/u/Aram_Fingal", "updated": "2026-05-15T21:55:04+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om111b2/", "content": "I did a mild version of this once years ago, early in my career. The company had org structure issues that I'm sure are still plaguing them. My boss had no interest in stirring the pot. I knew I was leaving and they were trying to encourage me to stay. I said I'd stay if they fixed two particular issues around decision rights. They balked and I left quietly, but I still felt like I burned a bridge. That turns out to be a bridge I'll likely never need to cross, but you just never know what connections will matter in the future. I think it was especially dumb at the time when I had a much smaller network than I do now. My "list of demands" was silly in retrospect and not something that any junior employee could expect to have influence over.\n Maybe everyone thinks they need to have a Jerry McGuire moment. Ultimately, it never quite goes down the way you want." }, { "id": "t1_om11e49", "author": "/u/ActPositively", "updated": "2026-05-15T21:57:01+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om11e49/", "content": "Why not make official complaints to HR or to ethics about her toxic behavior and her harassing you? Then either they retaliate against you and you have a big lawsuit or maybe you get her in trouble or fired before you quit" }, { "id": "t1_om11g5e", "author": "/u/Ryforge20", "updated": "2026-05-15T21:57:20+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om11g5e/", "content": "Ignore her and smile knowing she won’t be in your life anymore. That will bother a toxic narcissistic more than anything and you’ll live in her head rent free. Then forget about her and be happy you are moving on in life." }, { "id": "t1_om11lmq", "author": "/u/corpsie666", "updated": "2026-05-15T21:58:10+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om11lmq/", "content": "Always be the bigger person so that any criticisms you express about bad people will have more weight.\n Provide professional feedback to your boss's superiors. As appropriate, use corporate speak to indicate the person's behavior puts the company at financial and legal risks." }, { "id": "t1_om11rpr", "author": "/u/antidentites", "updated": "2026-05-15T21:59:06+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om11rpr/", "content": "One more comment: I’m very good friends with HR so I’m making sure that I’m not doing anything out of bounds.\n My approach will be professional, but I want to take it as close to the line as possible.\n I have an exit package already that I don’t want to invalidate, but I do want to make my voice heard since her treatment of many people has been incredibly nasty." }, { "id": "t1_om11sox", "author": "/u/DrWhiskerson", "updated": "2026-05-15T21:59:15+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om11sox/", "content": "Go to work. Leave at lunch. Never come back" }, { "id": "t1_om11xgo", "author": "/u/Ap43x", "updated": "2026-05-15T21:59:59+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om11xgo/", "content": "Exit interview. Not public." }, { "id": "t1_om12337", "author": "/u/Laser_Coug", "updated": "2026-05-15T22:00:52+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om12337/", "content": "Just keep it inside. You never know if something goes wrong and you need to come back so a tech job. Burning bridges never helps. I know you think you’ll never need it but stuff happens." }, { "id": "t1_om128bv", "author": "/u/MrDadcore", "updated": "2026-05-15T22:01:41+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om128bv/", "content": "Not worth it. You’re better than her." }, { "id": "t1_om1297m", "author": "/u/WishboneHot8050", "updated": "2026-05-15T22:01:49+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om1297m/", "content": "Don't burn the bridge. Own the bridge that she can't cross to chase after you.\n The revenge that you are going to get is by having her recognize that you can live and get on with your life without her. She still has to be a slave for a paycheck.\n There are people above me at my making insane money. And I know them well enough to know that some are seriously addicted to luxury and spending. They couldn't leave their employment without downsizing and budgeting themselves.\n You'll have huge satisfaction just knowing you have a freedom she doesn't" }, { "id": "t1_om12dy5", "author": "/u/jj117", "updated": "2026-05-15T22:02:34+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om12dy5/", "content": "I’m in medicine and have dealt with similar people at work. There’s a saying we have from an old book “they can always hurt you more”. Keep it a fantasy move on and live a happy life." }, { "id": "t1_om132ha", "author": "/u/pattch", "updated": "2026-05-15T22:06:27+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om132ha/", "content": "Tell her manager she’s the reason you want to leave. Make her deal with the fallout, confronting her isn’t going to mean much to her once you’re gone." }, { "id": "t1_om13c2i", "author": "/u/LonesomeBulldog", "updated": "2026-05-15T22:07:58+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om13c2i/", "content": "Your company email is most likely going to be still active after you lose access. Schedule some crazy ass emails to start firing off at 1am the night you leave." }, { "id": "t1_om13h4c", "author": "/u/asurkhaib", "updated": "2026-05-15T22:08:46+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om13h4c/", "content": "Don't tell the manager. Tell their boss and anyone with power that you have a connection with. If possible make it fact based. This not only get you some petty revenge but might actually make your coworker's lives better" }, { "id": "t1_om13pwe", "author": "/u/MindInTheCave999", "updated": "2026-05-15T22:10:10+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om13pwe/", "content": "Let it slide. Know a few people that did similar and they all regret it. Even if you're planning to retire, you never know what the future holds." }, { "id": "t1_om13q8o", "author": "/u/Environmental-Low792", "updated": "2026-05-15T22:10:13+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om13q8o/", "content": "I asked this question to the one decent manager in the company that I was going to use for references if fire went south, and he asked that I give a polite two week notice, and leave quietly. It was extremely hard, but I'm at peace with it now." }, { "id": "t1_om155vi", "author": "/u/littyinthecity69", "updated": "2026-05-15T22:18:28+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om155vi/", "content": "Just leave. I “went out swinging” at my prior job and honestly, doing that just shows they got to you. The ultimate FU is just leaving and giving almost no feedback. Fuck em - take the reins of your life back and just vanish." }, { "id": "t1_om160bw", "author": "/u/klibs", "updated": "2026-05-15T22:23:19+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om160bw/", "content": "This might be a terrible idea but...\n Why not just be a shitty employee and coast until they get rid of you? That way they still have to deal with you, you get paid for just scraping by, you can likely get severance, etc?\n Then you can tell them how much they suck in an exit interview or when it's all over.\n My point is you might as well leave in a way where you get a severance package? Just do absolute rock bottom amount of work. You might be shocked at how long you stick around for.\n Realistically though just leave gracefully with your reputation in tact. Burning bridges is almost always not a good move" }, { "id": "t1_om165tt", "author": "/u/myOEburner", "updated": "2026-05-15T22:24:12+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om165tt/", "content": "The question you should ask with any big decision: What's the benefit to you and what does it cost you?\n Best I can see, you get a fleeting emotional benefit and a story that makes you look petty. She is put in an uncomfortable position for a week or so, but gains some credibility because she gets to say "see...I told you he was nuts" after your meltdown. You don't get to defend yourself after you leave, so the narrative is all hers. You'll be trashed. This will be memorable, but probably not in the way you envision. It may even help her since management could see her as a patient manager who had to endure a difficult employee and successfully got deliverables out of you despite what they will see as a personality defect.\n This costs you any opportunity to ever return to this employer, and probably alienates you from a lot of people who would otherwise be references if you ever needed them. I know I'd never vouch for a guy that threw a tantrum on the way out. I know you think you don't ever need references now, but what if the market tanks 50%?\n You know you shouldn't do this. Leave as a pro." }, { "id": "t1_om16mts", "author": "/u/SouthernZorro", "updated": "2026-05-15T22:26:56+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om16mts/", "content": "I once worked with a legendary DoD big project manager. Sometimes when we would go to a base to implement our new systems for them, some higher-ups there would get really pissy because "the new system was forced on them by the Pentagon, they didn't need it, their staff were going to have to learn something new, bla bla bla" and just generally act like shit in coordination meetings.\n The nastier some of these people would get the nicer she would get, just stay very calm and smile like crazy.\n Once I asked her how she could be so nice with people who were being a-holes and she said, "Because it makes them look that much worse".\n I would be super-nice to the toxic manager and in that way let her know she is not living in your head in any way she wants. Take the power away from her." }, { "id": "t1_om16y5e", "author": "/u/theplushpairing", "updated": "2026-05-15T22:28:46+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om16y5e/", "content": "Negotiate your own severance. Be cordial, get extra $" }, { "id": "t1_om17zts", "author": "/u/rudberless", "updated": "2026-05-15T22:34:54+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om17zts/", "content": "Spend the last week just saying, ‘no you do it’." }, { "id": "t1_om187vk", "author": "/u/pug_walker", "updated": "2026-05-15T22:36:12+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om187vk/", "content": "Just don't show up.. see how long it takes before they fire you then claim unemployment" }, { "id": "t1_om189sj", "author": "/u/TheRajMahal", "updated": "2026-05-15T22:36:31+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om189sj/", "content": "If you really want to get at them don’t “go out swinging”. Go out quietly and air your grievances through HR and the higher ups. It will actually create change and get at her much more than yelling and walking out." }, { "id": "t1_om18pc8", "author": "/u/TurtleSandwich0", "updated": "2026-05-15T22:39:03+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om18pc8/", "content": "You need to write two letters of resignation. The normal one goes to her. The second one goes to her boss. The second letter should be written in a way that her business decisions are bad for the business.\n It is less satisfying, but might have an impact on her career." }, { "id": "t1_om19uwu", "author": "/u/Pour_me_one_more", "updated": "2026-05-15T22:45:47+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om19uwu/", "content": "No matter what you tell her, she won't hear you. You can tell her boss, but she/he won't care either. Modern industry in general, and tech in particular, were built on toxic work environments. Nobody cares." }, { "id": "t1_om1bys2", "author": "/u/CleMike69", "updated": "2026-05-15T22:58:02+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om1bys2/", "content": "Go over her head and make it known she is the reason your leaving at least upper management will then be alerted to her actions. They may not care or they will" }, { "id": "t1_om1c65o", "author": "/u/darkeningsoul", "updated": "2026-05-15T22:59:14+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om1c65o/", "content": "Leave it during the exit interview or a Glassdoor review after" }, { "id": "t1_om1cisz", "author": "/u/Opposite_Fox_1956", "updated": "2026-05-15T23:01:19+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om1cisz/", "content": "Call her out, go for it, oh video the entire thing…" }, { "id": "t1_om1etob", "author": "/u/metamucil_buttchug69", "updated": "2026-05-15T23:14:50+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om1etob/", "content": "Don't do it overtly, that will come across as you being disgruntled. Do it subtly, just make her look bad, let her fail, point out her mistakes in ways that aren't obviously hostile." }, { "id": "t1_om1ew5p", "author": "/u/Dharmabum2393", "updated": "2026-05-15T23:15:14+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om1ew5p/", "content": "I would say death by 1000 cuts. For the two weeks before you quit just slip something cutting into every meeting, every call, every email. Not something so offensive in of itself you will get fired but some of those comments that depending how you read it could be a compliment or horribly cruel depending how it’s intended and what you know about her. I’m really good with this stuff if you need co collaboration" }, { "id": "t1_om1f9m1", "author": "/u/Mental-Wolf-2560", "updated": "2026-05-15T23:17:26+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om1f9m1/", "content": "Go out costanza style, record it, and put it on youtube." }, { "id": "t1_om1fn2v", "author": "/u/Time_Many6155", "updated": "2026-05-15T23:19:37+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om1fn2v/", "content": "I can almost guess where you worked.. I worked there too..:)" }, { "id": "t1_om1fyo8", "author": "/u/Dynamiccushion65", "updated": "2026-05-15T23:21:30+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om1fyo8/", "content": "Sell her out to management and be nice to her face. Set up one on ones with her boss. Show them all the things you’ve worked on and then question some of her feedback given to you. This sows seeds of doubt. Then whenever your boss speaks with their manager - the manager will look at it pejoratively - it will take a year of this but it will happen" }, { "id": "t1_om1hb5w", "author": "/u/Abject-Substance1133", "updated": "2026-05-15T23:29:24+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om1hb5w/", "content": "don’t be emotional, you’re already at FIRE levels but anything can happen, a recession/war can bankrupt you and you might need a job again\n make a rational choice here, i know it’s tempting to scorched earth on your way out but the risk/reward ratio isn’t in your favor\n if you must, start reporting her toxic behavior to hr\n make sure you’re on good terms w coworkers before peacing out" }, { "id": "t1_om1kbef", "author": "/u/Ecstatic-Score2844", "updated": "2026-05-15T23:47:15+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om1kbef/", "content": "I've been doing this but still somehow not fired. I am in a very similar position. Very much dislike my boss, make that known to him regularly, but not fired yet." }, { "id": "t1_om1ldeb", "author": "/u/No_Imagination_3149", "updated": "2026-05-15T23:53:30+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om1ldeb/", "content": "Why be annoyed when you can be annoying" }, { "id": "t1_om1mf2z", "author": "/u/dr_deb_66", "updated": "2026-05-15T23:59:45+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om1mf2z/", "content": "Upvoting just for the em-dashes." }, { "id": "t1_om1mlpd", "author": "/u/De_mentorr", "updated": "2026-05-16T00:00:50+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om1mlpd/", "content": "Exit interview with well documented evidences." }, { "id": "t1_om1mvva", "author": "/u/Brostradamus-2", "updated": "2026-05-16T00:02:33+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om1mvva/", "content": "Don't do it man. It sounds fun but on your way out you aren't gonna care about it as much as you do now. Just move on and live well." }, { "id": "t1_om1np6h", "author": "/u/Billsrealaccount", "updated": "2026-05-16T00:07:29+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om1np6h/", "content": "Best option is to leave right before a big project is due and you are way behind on your work." }, { "id": "t1_om1omdn", "author": "/u/Happy-Requirement269", "updated": "2026-05-16T00:13:07+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om1omdn/", "content": "Those are hyphens, not em dashes" }, { "id": "t1_om1rcws", "author": "/u/R5Jockey", "updated": "2026-05-16T00:30:02+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om1rcws/", "content": "I hated my boss. I didn’t speak to him the last 4 months I worked for my company. That was good enough for me." }, { "id": "t1_om1sqi9", "author": "/u/AltForMyAnonymity", "updated": "2026-05-16T00:38:45+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om1sqi9/", "content": "I thought this was a post about swingers LOL." }, { "id": "t1_om1tuk1", "author": "/u/mike543210", "updated": "2026-05-16T00:45:47+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om1tuk1/", "content": "I read some of you comments below and what others said. I think yeah do something even just to make life better for others in the future. Good luck with the rest of your life, leave with your head high and then forget this role and move on." }, { "id": "t1_om1up9y", "author": "/u/Own_Mall5442", "updated": "2026-05-16T00:51:08+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om1up9y/", "content": "Don’t do an exit interview. Take your shit, leave their shit, and go. It doesn’t matter anymore." }, { "id": "t1_om1v50c", "author": "/u/r0gue007", "updated": "2026-05-16T00:53:52+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om1v50c/", "content": "Heh… love the post and the em dash note OP.\n I used to use them and sometimes bold small sentence segments for emphasis, none of that now.\n I also found l feel better about using offhand tone in complex technical communication as it sets me apart from all the scripted AI rewrites I see come across my inbox" }, { "id": "t1_om1x2w1", "author": "/u/teamhog", "updated": "2026-05-16T01:05:55+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om1x2w1/", "content": "Just don’t give notice.\n Leave late on a Friday.\n Pen a handwritten note; affix it to your workstation; let them know Friday was your last day.\n Leave everything there with a photo of it all that you’ve taken and print out a copy for yourself.\n So, just leave but do it quietly with everything intact so you’ll get your last paycheck on time." }, { "id": "t1_om1xa3y", "author": "/u/NewEngland0123", "updated": "2026-05-16T01:07:08+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om1xa3y/", "content": "Let it go, there is certainly nothing to gain." }, { "id": "t1_om1xdeo", "author": "/u/BullsThrone", "updated": "2026-05-16T01:07:42+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om1xdeo/", "content": "Not worth it because the other person won’t care. You’re only raising your own blood pressure. Plus, every time you think back on your last day, you will relive that scene. Just walk out and be happy." }, { "id": "t1_om1xk8p", "author": "/u/NeedSomeHelpHere4785", "updated": "2026-05-16T01:08:53+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om1xk8p/", "content": "Most likely it won't be her that ends up looking bad. Go enjoy your life and leave your worries behind." }, { "id": "t1_om1xkgb", "author": "/u/hahnyolo", "updated": "2026-05-16T01:08:55+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om1xkgb/", "content": "Those aren’t em dashes. They’re just good old everything dashes." }, { "id": "t1_om1yw1e", "author": "/u/Initial_Enthusiasm36", "updated": "2026-05-16T01:17:11+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om1yw1e/", "content": "I would never burn bridges. But there are other ways to get back at her for stuff." }, { "id": "t1_om1yyro", "author": "/u/ReaderBakerSleeper07", "updated": "2026-05-16T01:17:40+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om1yyro/", "content": "I had to leave a toxic manager. I was in my 30s and needed to work, so I had another job lined up. I told the new job I’d be there in 3 weeks (2 week notice, 1 week vacation). I scheduled a meeting the next day with HR. I cleared out my office without anyone knowing except the admin assistant (who was lovely & hated the manager). I went to HR and let them have it. I told them how toxic the manager was and due to everything I endured I was taking vacation and that would be my two week notice (I had exactly two weeks saved up). HR agreed. I drove home and not even 10 minutes into my drive the admin assistant called me laughing. The manager got the call from HR that I left and she was PISSED. She & a supervisor were staging their own investigation into where I was going. LOL! I forget the rest but she was so blind-sighted by my leaving it was HYSTERICAL! I was so glad that I didn’t go off on the manager. She ended up being demoted a few months later but worked there for another 10 years. Those three weeks off from work were wonderful. I got to my new job and loved it." }, { "id": "t1_om2195b", "author": "/u/Prestigious_Sell9516", "updated": "2026-05-16T01:32:11+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om2195b/", "content": "Do it smartly - set her up with guile." }, { "id": "t1_om24csq", "author": "/u/MudIsland", "updated": "2026-05-16T01:51:46+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om24csq/", "content": "Make sure to do it in front of her boss or nothing will change for the others under her." }, { "id": "t1_om2ccbz", "author": "/u/severinh20", "updated": "2026-05-16T02:42:28+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om2ccbz/", "content": "Absolutely destroy your manager in front of everyone!\n Give your fellow employees a moment to cherish for the rest of their lives ❤️\n I would love to have witnessed something like that in my life" }, { "id": "t1_om2cngl", "author": "/u/Ok-Hovercraft-9257", "updated": "2026-05-16T02:44:31+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om2cngl/", "content": "It's ok to have a low-key case of the fuckits. Smile to yourself and say "Ok Jan" and "wow" and "yikes" to her face.\n You don't have to have a fight. You can just subtly call out bad behavior by raising your eyebrows and saying "that's wild"" }, { "id": "t1_om2ecn4", "author": "/u/antidentites", "updated": "2026-05-16T02:55:44+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om2ecn4/", "content": "Ok Jan\n Seriously, I’ve been passive aggressive my entire life and want to try something different." }, { "id": "t1_om2gtuw", "author": "/u/robotbike2", "updated": "2026-05-16T03:12:39+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om2gtuw/", "content": "Just leave it. Never burn bridges if you can resist. You never know what the future brings." }, { "id": "t1_om2u93m", "author": "/u/BobbieMaccc", "updated": "2026-05-16T04:50:26+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om2u93m/", "content": "Never burn bridges! Super important rule for life" }, { "id": "t1_om2jebp", "author": "/u/No-Bandicoot-4492", "updated": "2026-05-16T03:30:46+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om2jebp/", "content": "On your deathbed you will not regret it, let her have it." }, { "id": "t1_om2kah8", "author": "/u/OkEssay4173", "updated": "2026-05-16T03:37:02+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om2kah8/", "content": "Tell her how you feel, make up, then make out" }, { "id": "t1_om2olpq", "author": "/u/Feminine-Beg", "updated": "2026-05-16T04:07:36+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om2olpq/", "content": "Not that it matters, but those are en dashes not em dashes." }, { "id": "t1_om2t12i", "author": "/u/standard_deviant_Q", "updated": "2026-05-16T04:40:53+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om2t12i/", "content": "I read your post title as asking if you should become a swinger lol." }, { "id": "t1_om2zx6m", "author": "/u/peachyblondiex", "updated": "2026-05-16T05:36:50+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om2zx6m/", "content": "The best revenge is living well, just take your FIRE number and go enjoy your life, she doesn't deserve another second of your mental energy." }, { "id": "t1_om3570w", "author": "/u/rocketgirl65", "updated": "2026-05-16T06:21:55+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om3570w/", "content": "C U Next Tuesday!" }, { "id": "t1_om39a3n", "author": "/u/gmr548", "updated": "2026-05-16T06:57:19+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om39a3n/", "content": "Really not worth it. The best revenge is a life well lived." }, { "id": "t1_om3eig4", "author": "/u/Intelnational", "updated": "2026-05-16T07:44:11+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om3eig4/", "content": "AI uses long dashes, so it’s safe it’s a human thing, lol." }, { "id": "t1_om3ifrk", "author": "/u/Professional_Ad_4957", "updated": "2026-05-16T08:20:03+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om3ifrk/", "content": "I went out with a blaze when I retired. It felt so liberating. Best advice I can give you is to go for it. Burn the bridges. You’re FIRE." }, { "id": "t1_om3ly0s", "author": "/u/WieldyShieldy", "updated": "2026-05-16T08:52:31+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om3ly0s/", "content": "Sounds like she is miserable in her life! Just go on a splurgy holiday and tag her in everything 🤣" }, { "id": "t1_om41md2", "author": "/u/Passionofthegrape", "updated": "2026-05-16T11:08:59+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om41md2/", "content": "Report to HR, but actually give detail with examples.\n Send an email to her skip manager (you work in tech so should understand, but the person who her boss reports to), with examples of her toxic behaviour.\n Copy in her manager, HR and anyone else you can think of.\n This will be the most damaging, full nuclear.\n The more you make it fact based and the less emotion (no name calling) the better" }, { "id": "t1_om4b17u", "author": "/u/CauliflowerPerfect39", "updated": "2026-05-16T12:15:15+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om4b17u/", "content": "Do it in case she asks why, or reacts with scarn or says something like “good”. Above all else, tell her you don’t need to work anymore and emphasize: especially not for “someone like her” - making it a type, not just “not for her”." }, { "id": "t1_om4b271", "author": "/u/LC7325", "updated": "2026-05-16T12:15:25+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om4b271/", "content": "If your manager is a toxic one, don't crash out on them before you leave. You have co-workers not ready to escape and that manager may lash out on the team you leave behind. Do an exit interview and highlight one of the main reasons you are leaving is said manger. And bring proof, don't just say you didn't like said person. If you have observed this behavior towards others, you can advocate for them as part of your rationale for leaving. Don't kick the hive, smoke out the bad bees." }, { "id": "t1_om4djuk", "author": "/u/Cant_run_away", "updated": "2026-05-16T12:31:26+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om4djuk/", "content": "Get me hired. I'll make sure to do your bidding." }, { "id": "t1_om4gfgp", "author": "/u/Prestigious-Day-2910", "updated": "2026-05-16T12:49:18+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om4gfgp/", "content": "Just walk away. Shake her hand as you leave and tell her to have the life she deserves. Be at peace with your financial freedom and don’t spend another moment thinking about her nonsense." }, { "id": "t1_om4rnl0", "author": "/u/antidentites", "updated": "2026-05-16T13:53:43+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om4rnl0/", "content": "I like the subtlety of this approach. Unfortunately I will have to deal with her a lot over the next few weeks before I leave so it’ll be impossible to ignore her until then." }, { "id": "t1_om4s9vx", "author": "/u/Prestigious-Day-2910", "updated": "2026-05-16T13:57:05+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om4s9vx/", "content": "You put in your notice right? Literally phone it in for the next two weeks. Worst case they walk you out. And who cares at this point. Be at peace and enjoy your well deserved retirement!" }, { "id": "t1_om4lwvn", "author": "/u/alexmc1980", "updated": "2026-05-16T13:21:40+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om4lwvn/", "content": "Lucky for you those em dashes appear in the font my phone shows me as en dashes, so you're off the hook!" }, { "id": "t1_om4qk35", "author": "/u/TwoToneDonut", "updated": "2026-05-16T13:47:41+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om4qk35/", "content": "Wait for them to say something sue worthy during a packed meeting, stop engaging, write something on a notepad and just makes beeline to your desk after the meeting. They will shit and sweat rest of the day. If they're that bad you actually could sue and probably get some kind of small settlement, small bonus before you go they don't know you're in FIRR mode." }, { "id": "t1_om4y3ut", "author": "/u/Specific-Action-8993", "updated": "2026-05-16T14:28:03+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om4y3ut/", "content": "Set firm boundaries, call out her misbehavior when it happens and maybe she'll get so fed up with you that you get fired with severance." }, { "id": "t1_om50jus", "author": "/u/_Acklex", "updated": "2026-05-16T14:40:34+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om50jus/", "content": "I did this, and it was 100% worth it lol Saying what everyone else was too scared to say was a real feel good moment for me and my ex-colleagues.\n Boss lost her job shortly after as well" }, { "id": "t1_om51rjn", "author": "/u/MaidMarian20", "updated": "2026-05-16T14:46:47+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om51rjn/", "content": "No, don’t do it. Probably won’t feel as good as you imagine it will. And - you never know - you might end up needing the company reference or something one day. Or worse yet, she might try to sue you for something you say, or file a complaint to justify you’re leaving - “see, I told you they were difficult to manage.” You’ll end up looking bad, and word gets around. And you’ll have shot yourself in the foot. No, not worth it. She won’t care anyway. But would probably love to see your anger and how much she’s gotten to you. No. Just no happy ending in reality, which I’m sure is very different than what you have in your mind.\n I’d say something like -“ I want to thank you for subtly encouraging me to take this step, I’m so looking forward to enjoying my early retirement! If it wasn’t for you, I probably wouldn’t have left so soon. So thanks for that! I wish you well, and will remember you fondly, still working here long after I’m gone. In fact I’ll dedicate my first two week cruise to you, the first of many o have planned. Be well, and take care! Buh bye.”\n That’ll confuse the heck out of her! 🤣" }, { "id": "t1_om560dz", "author": "/u/PainInTheAssDean", "updated": "2026-05-16T15:08:17+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om560dz/", "content": "Those aren’t em dashes" }, { "id": "t1_om5hzmt", "author": "/u/TomorrowPlenty9205", "updated": "2026-05-16T16:07:30+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om5hzmt/", "content": "Telling her how you feel is not likely going to have the effect you want, I would document everything you can, bring it to HR and they quit very public and clearly as her actions as the cause. Company HATE when manager cause people to quit and there upper management will very likely take note. If you are going out swinging, swing in a way that will likely cause pain. Not only will the cause her more real pain, but you wont burn as many bridges as long as your complaints can be reasonable documented. Also, if you know what triggers her to ask more unprofessional, DO IT, if you can make her want to fire you, you might get severance." }, { "id": "t1_om5qywl", "author": "/u/RdtRanger6969", "updated": "2026-05-16T16:53:10+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om5qywl/", "content": "Politely and professionally share what a miserable experience it was working for them & she’s why you’re leaving, with her manager. Not her.\n If she’s favored/in the In Clique it’s not going to make a difference anyway." }, { "id": "t1_om649vp", "author": "/u/Specialist-Draft-149", "updated": "2026-05-16T17:59:06+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om649vp/", "content": "Never burn bridges, you just never know and who wants to be that guy - they say how they re quitting because the boss stinks. The boss doesn’t care, her leadership doesn’t care.\n Why sully your reputation by behaving like a child." }, { "id": "t1_om66zbj", "author": "/u/TastyEarLbe", "updated": "2026-05-16T18:12:49+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om66zbj/", "content": "Go in grace, let it be, and move on." }, { "id": "t1_om6f7pq", "author": "/u/Mysterious9876", "updated": "2026-05-16T18:55:35+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om6f7pq/", "content": "you never know what the consequences of your claims will be. you've won the game, why jeopardize it by a crazy individual. More than likely her actions will soon catch up with her either way. why deal with that" }, { "id": "t1_om6w38e", "author": "/u/jrb637", "updated": "2026-05-16T20:24:43+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om6w38e/", "content": "Blowing up on your last day will hurt your credibility. If you want to hit her where it hurts, report her to HR" }, { "id": "t1_om7h6dm", "author": "/u/fospher", "updated": "2026-05-16T22:21:25+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om7h6dm/", "content": "Psychopaths like that live to know they got under your skin. The best revenge is being completely unbothered (with isn’t vet satisfying but is what it is)" }, { "id": "t1_om9173o", "author": "/u/CarnageAsada-", "updated": "2026-05-17T04:21:54+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om9173o/", "content": "Let go, go out in style while you’re at it get a nice work force attorney and sue them to shit. I mean if you never plan to work again or ever use them as a reference." }, { "id": "t1_ombboj8", "author": "/u/western_usa", "updated": "2026-05-17T14:40:17+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/ombboj8/", "content": "Tell HR in the exit interview, that way your boss doesn't run to them first with lies and dilute your claims. If they have done anything potentially unethical, blow the whistle on them and have it investigated. To be petty, wait a month or so and sign up for a bunch of junk email and marketing text notifications for things using their email/phone number hahaha" }, { "id": "t1_omno3l0", "author": "/u/Old_Still3321", "updated": "2026-05-19T12:11:38+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/omno3l0/", "content": ""You're a bad boss. No, stop. I won't allow you to denigrate me further. Do you want more feedback? Ok, buh-bye!"" }, { "id": "t1_omnys6g", "author": "/u/Ill_Savings_8338", "updated": "2026-05-19T13:11:43+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/omnys6g/", "content": "I would go out swinging (verbally). I've done it at a few jobs 😞" }, { "id": "t1_om0sbtc", "author": "/u/sc1lurker", "updated": "2026-05-15T21:09:04+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om0sbtc/", "content": "All these comments telling you "be professional" or "be the better person" or whatever other gay shit are just WRONG. Assuming you will never need them as a reference and there's no money on the line (I myself received a buyout, and that's enough reason for me to play nice), I say, 🔥 burn that bridge! Bask in your victory!\n You wanna live forever?!" }, { "id": "t1_om0t1tv", "author": "/u/ChaoticAmoebae", "updated": "2026-05-15T21:12:46+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om0t1tv/", "content": "What is wrong with gay shit?" }, { "id": "t1_om0skwc", "author": "/u/michoriso", "updated": "2026-05-15T21:10:21+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om0skwc/", "content": "I say depends on how she’s making your office life more difficult and is she doing it publicly in front of others." }, { "id": "t1_om0tgcv", "author": "/u/fLeXaN_tExAn", "updated": "2026-05-15T21:14:51+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om0tgcv/", "content": "Are there co-workers that are feeling the same way that you are? Do you want to do them an absolute SOLID?" }, { "id": "t1_om0xg0s", "author": "/u/antidentites", "updated": "2026-05-15T21:35:48+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om0xg0s/", "content": "Many, many co-workers feel the same way. Even my HR buddy feels the same. But the system is built to favor those in charge." }, { "id": "t1_om0xr5m", "author": "/u/fLeXaN_tExAn", "updated": "2026-05-15T21:37:27+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om0xr5m/", "content": "Do it for them! If there are friends in there that could use your voice to help them, it's something that I would seriously consider." }, { "id": "t1_om0ui4m", "author": "/u/Future-Account8112", "updated": "2026-05-15T21:20:17+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om0ui4m/", "content": "Doesn't matter if you need to return to tech or not: This is toxic behavior. Don't do it." }, { "id": "t1_om0upgb", "author": "/u/forest_fire", "updated": "2026-05-15T21:21:21+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om0upgb/", "content": "It’s not unlike a divorce from a toxic ex (IYKYK). Take the high road - up up and away)." }, { "id": "t1_om0uxdq", "author": "/u/BlondDeutcher", "updated": "2026-05-15T21:22:30+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om0uxdq/", "content": "This is stupid as fuck. Don’t be that guy" }, { "id": "t1_om0v5lv", "author": "/u/DanielDannyc12", "updated": "2026-05-15T21:23:42+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om0v5lv/", "content": "For what it's worth, it hurts them more if you refuse to say anything and just dip out" }, { "id": "t1_om0vc51", "author": "/u/reubTV", "updated": "2026-05-15T21:24:38+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om0vc51/", "content": "What are you going to gain? It's not going to make you feel better" }, { "id": "t1_om0yax7", "author": "/u/antidentites", "updated": "2026-05-15T21:40:24+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om0yax7/", "content": "It absolutely will make me feel better. It won’t accomplish anything, but it will absolutely make me feel like I went to bat for everyone else who couldn’t." }, { "id": "t1_om0vfoi", "author": "/u/Designer-Translator7", "updated": "2026-05-15T21:25:10+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om0vfoi/", "content": "Depends on the kinda person you only you can answer how you wanna think in retrospect down the road about yourself and your life story at certain moments.\n When I retired at 40 I played it cool and smooth. The CEO and me were cool so can’t say much he knew I had my shit together in a big way so can’t say about the one guy above me being toxic. There were a few very toxic people I had to be around during my work but nothing crazy dramatic. I always had more in my mind that their life is sad and they are unhappy people more than they make my day bad mentality how I dealt. When I let the toxic ones know two weeks I was retiring I simply put it like I am wealthy enough due to my success and priorities and am retiring best of luck to your future working lives Im off to great new adventures. No bragging, no putting them down, just I am a badass that succeeded and off with my wife to live an amazing life. It was more of a you will think about me and I will never think about you kinda vibe how I talked to those few people." }, { "id": "t1_om0w1hi", "author": "/u/RealCompetition3146", "updated": "2026-05-15T21:28:23+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om0w1hi/", "content": "Keep it short and sweet. “I’m retiring. I appreciate everything you all have done to help me through my career. Thank you.” Then when you say goodbye to her in front of everyone give her a hug and whisper “by the way everyone talks about how AWFUL your breath smells. We have a betting pool that it’s a rotting tooth.” Then release the hug and smile like you said nothing and walk out.\n No scene, cordial enough for any future encounters, and you just helped all the people you’re leaving with the ultimate satisfaction that you just gave her a life long insecurity that may cause her to stop yelling or talking to coworkers poorly as she lives in fear of her breath smelling. 😂" }, { "id": "t1_om0wdy2", "author": "/u/hammerscribe98", "updated": "2026-05-15T21:30:13+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om0wdy2/", "content": "Those are en dashes" }, { "id": "t1_om0wpzk", "author": "/u/TheGoodBunny", "updated": "2026-05-15T21:31:58+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om0wpzk/", "content": "Just do it in a way that doesn't make your coworker's lives worse. For instance, quitting without a notice just means your coworkers now need to work extra to pick up the slack since your absence was not planned for, so don't do that." }, { "id": "t1_om0wueg", "author": "/u/newwriter365", "updated": "2026-05-15T21:32:37+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om0wueg/", "content": "Let it go. You are winning by leaving on your terms. The best revenge is to live well." }, { "id": "t1_om0wwr0", "author": "/u/bchhun", "updated": "2026-05-15T21:32:58+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om0wwr0/", "content": "The best way was to ingratiate yourself to everyone else so that her complaints fall flat and make her look bad.\n But that ship has sailed. Time to move on." }, { "id": "t1_om0wzil", "author": "/u/Maximusgoobe", "updated": "2026-05-15T21:33:22+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om0wzil/", "content": "Draft an email. Put every single thing you can think of that you want to say to her in it.\n Then just don't send it. It's not worth it." }, { "id": "t1_om0x3gi", "author": "/u/thisisntveryme", "updated": "2026-05-15T21:33:57+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om0x3gi/", "content": "I simply told my toxic useless manager, “you know this is wrong,” when I left. Closed the call before I saw his reaction. The best revenge is a life lived well and I’m enjoying mine." }, { "id": "t1_om0xdxa", "author": "/u/AvidVenturest", "updated": "2026-05-15T21:35:30+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om0xdxa/", "content": "To be a pain in the ass, those are not proper em dashes and just hyphens. You need to hit the “-“ key twice so you get this — instead. So you good homie. No AI detected :) but I too love em dashes and use them often." }, { "id": "t1_om0xhcx", "author": "/u/Future_Measurement42", "updated": "2026-05-15T21:36:00+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om0xhcx/", "content": "Why would you sink to her level?" }, { "id": "t1_om0xjlv", "author": "/u/ZugZug42069", "updated": "2026-05-15T21:36:20+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om0xjlv/", "content": "During your exit interview make it abundantly clear that your manager is a significant part of why you’re leaving the company." }, { "id": "t1_om0xl55", "author": "/u/garoodah", "updated": "2026-05-15T21:36:34+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om0xl55/", "content": "Only comment is doing it in a way to not fuck over your coworkers wellbeing after you leave, but otherwise you do you. I have witnessed a few of these, and been on the receiving end of one from a direct report that really caught me off guard, and in all cases it was just more awkward and cringey than anything." }, { "id": "t1_om0xsql", "author": "/u/taco-frito-420", "updated": "2026-05-15T21:37:41+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om0xsql/", "content": "if you really want to do it in a way that scores some results, try to embarrass her in front of others. Otherwise it's kinda pointless imo. You'll just look bitter and it'd be better just to ignore her.\n If you've been pissed enough that she deserves to be called out, then go ahead and do it and see how the rest of the team reacts" }, { "id": "t1_om0xzv6", "author": "/u/ChivalryMaxximus", "updated": "2026-05-15T21:38:45+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om0xzv6/", "content": "The best revenge is served on a cold dish.\n Tell her with a genuine smile you are putting in your two week notice. If she asks where and why, just say you're taking time off to travel and enjoy life, which is what FIRE is about.\n Nothing else needs to be said.\n Just knowing her toxic personality can no longer effect you means 1)Shes even more distraught and 2) You're more than satisfied." }, { "id": "t1_om0yamn", "author": "/u/immrsclean", "updated": "2026-05-15T21:40:21+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om0yamn/", "content": "It would be cathartic to just write down everything you want to say but never send it. That’s what I did. I started with the intention of sending it, but by the time I was done, I was like… who gives a fuck? I’m moving on. Their shit will probably catch up to them but not my problem to worry about anymore." }, { "id": "t1_om0ypw5", "author": "/u/gingerbakerisgod", "updated": "2026-05-15T21:42:36+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om0ypw5/", "content": "Weigh the rewards versus the risks\n You're picking a fight with a toxic person l" }, { "id": "t1_om0zb2d", "author": "/u/Typical_Row_3172", "updated": "2026-05-15T21:45:45+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om0zb2d/", "content": "Personally, I would not say anything too direct about the leadership you’re leaving to HR. But I would say another colleague, Colleague X, has phenomenal skills at (whatever the org values) and the personality to step into a leadership role in the future. Then you look analytical and not bitter. It might open up questions from HRs end." }, { "id": "t1_om0zfyk", "author": "", "updated": "2026-05-15T21:46:30+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om0zfyk/", "content": "[deleted]" }, { "id": "t1_om0zjov", "author": "/u/PatientOutcome6634", "updated": "2026-05-15T21:47:03+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om0zjov/", "content": "Ok, I have a different proposal. Right now she lives part time in your head. If I were you, I would grab some 1x1 time with her and put the cards on the table: “look X, I’m on my way out. Your behavior was part of it (give a few specific examples) - but I recognize we’re all human, so I wanted to use this meeting to clear the air” And then you stop talking and wait for her. This is something that you do for you. It’ll help you understand her behavior and forget about it much faster. I’ve done it with a few toxic ex managers and it always made me feel better. Your experience might vary." }, { "id": "t1_om0zu4s", "author": "/u/Neverland__", "updated": "2026-05-15T21:48:36+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om0zu4s/", "content": "Not an em dash brother" }, { "id": "t1_om0zvo9", "author": "/u/TrashPanda_924", "updated": "2026-05-15T21:48:49+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om0zvo9/", "content": "How you react says more about you than her." }, { "id": "t1_om0zzy2", "author": "/u/LatchkeyLedger", "updated": "2026-05-15T21:49:28+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om0zzy2/", "content": "Walk away clean and quiet - don't let them know a damn thing. (Em dash used for solidarity)" }, { "id": "t1_om1028o", "author": "/u/BlitzcrankGrab", "updated": "2026-05-15T21:49:49+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om1028o/", "content": "Those dashes in your post aren’t em dashes…" }, { "id": "t1_om10kh6", "author": "/u/WingZombie", "updated": "2026-05-15T21:52:33+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om10kh6/", "content": "The best revenge is living well. Disappear quietly" }, { "id": "t1_om10ynf", "author": "/u/johnsilver4545", "updated": "2026-05-15T21:54:40+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om10ynf/", "content": "A life well lived is the best revenge.\n Dont burn bridges. Just be content" }, { "id": "t1_om10zc7", "author": "/u/ImPapaNoff", "updated": "2026-05-15T21:54:46+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om10zc7/", "content": "Note: those are hyphens (-) you're using not em dashes (—)" }, { "id": "t1_om1179t", "author": "/u/Byrus00", "updated": "2026-05-15T21:55:59+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om1179t/", "content": "Do it. People suck." }, { "id": "t1_om11af8", "author": "/u/PositiveHairy5725", "updated": "2026-05-15T21:56:28+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om11af8/", "content": "Next time she makes a scene, tell her to fire you because you don’t need the job" }, { "id": "t1_om11czj", "author": "/u/hitchhikerjim", "updated": "2026-05-15T21:56:51+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om11czj/", "content": "Spend your energy on the joy you're going to be creating in your future life. Its wasted on the past." }, { "id": "t1_om11mb3", "author": "/u/Party_Gold641", "updated": "2026-05-15T21:58:16+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om11mb3/", "content": "yes, armageddon that bridge but please come back and tell the story" }, { "id": "t1_om11wc3", "author": "/u/SuitableSafety329", "updated": "2026-05-15T21:59:49+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om11wc3/", "content": "Do it. Who gives a shit." }, { "id": "t1_om11wij", "author": "/u/stompinstinker", "updated": "2026-05-15T21:59:51+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om11wij/", "content": "I say let it rip. Speak to her extremely calmly and clearly about how miserable she is, and how you are leaving because of her and if anyone else hates her too. No yelling, no swearing, just calm and cool.\n Same thing during the exit interview." }, { "id": "t1_om12xis", "author": "/u/PreparationAdvanced9", "updated": "2026-05-15T22:05:39+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om12xis/", "content": "I had a similar situation and I didn’t burn any bridges. Felt like I wasn’t gaining anything from having my toxic manager hate me if I ever need a reference or anything from him" }, { "id": "t1_om13x3n", "author": "/u/IrishDrifter86", "updated": "2026-05-15T22:11:19+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om13x3n/", "content": "Those aren't em dashes, just normal dashes." }, { "id": "t1_om14ovz", "author": "/u/Lehcen", "updated": "2026-05-15T22:15:44+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om14ovz/", "content": "You can’t fix serious stupid. Put that garbage human in your rear view mirror and enjoy your much earned retirement" }, { "id": "t1_om15bua", "author": "/u/feralferrous", "updated": "2026-05-15T22:19:24+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om15bua/", "content": "I don't see the point, go sail off into your FIRE sunset." }, { "id": "t1_om15tue", "author": "/u/TheButtDog", "updated": "2026-05-15T22:22:17+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om15tue/", "content": "You’re on your way out and still care about office politics? Why?\n You should have already checked out months ago, friend\n You have no reason to expend any of your energy on toxic office bullshit. It’s one of the best perks of financial independence in my opinion" }, { "id": "t1_om170wh", "author": "/u/rudberless", "updated": "2026-05-15T22:29:13+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om170wh/", "content": "Thank her publicly. Buy her a gift. Thank her for helping you realise how important autonomy is and for reinforcing the desire with every single interaction. Be sincere.\n Then-\n Turn around walk away and project your arms into the air with a DOUBLE REVERSE 1 FINGER SALUTE…" }, { "id": "t1_om185m4", "author": "/u/Ill_Supermarket_9415", "updated": "2026-05-15T22:35:50+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om185m4/", "content": "You should tell her you’re retiring! Seeing you happy and having something she doesn’t have is a bigger FU" }, { "id": "t1_om188d5", "author": "/u/capitalsfan08", "updated": "2026-05-15T22:36:16+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om188d5/", "content": "I can assure you it won't be nearly as cool as you think it will be. But hey, you can make sure your coworkers all think what a dick you are as your final impression.\n Personally, if I wanted to screw her over, I would simply give a day or so notice and leave it at that. Or, wait until she does something again and then just turn in your resignation there. But I would maintain professionality if for no other reason than to show her, and myself, that I am in fact better than her." }, { "id": "t1_om18bg3", "author": "/u/dissentmemo", "updated": "2026-05-15T22:36:47+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om18bg3/", "content": "I'd kill her with kindness..write a very professional but stinging letter and send it to her and HR and her manager." }, { "id": "t1_om18clf", "author": "/u/m1stercakes", "updated": "2026-05-15T22:36:58+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om18clf/", "content": "avoid using the giant bag of oil" }, { "id": "t1_om18dl4", "author": "/u/GreaseFoot", "updated": "2026-05-15T22:37:07+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om18dl4/", "content": "Don’t waste your breath on her. It will just feed her the fuel she needs. Best to exit with class. Sure, air out your grievances during exit interview but keep it professional if you want it to carry any weight. Enjoy your retirement!" }, { "id": "t1_om19dqm", "author": "/u/V4UncleRicosVan", "updated": "2026-05-15T22:43:00+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om19dqm/", "content": "lol. That’s not an M dash." }, { "id": "t1_om19joy", "author": "/u/DangerousCapybara888", "updated": "2026-05-15T22:43:58+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om19joy/", "content": "Whisper in the ear of the new hire as you walk out “suckaaaaa….”" }, { "id": "t1_om1a9i0", "author": "/u/Sad_Junket1351", "updated": "2026-05-15T22:48:07+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om1a9i0/", "content": "Wait a few months, then decide what/if/how to do it." }, { "id": "t1_om1bk9x", "author": "/u/gregaustex", "updated": "2026-05-15T22:55:40+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om1bk9x/", "content": "Nah you might change your mind later and you really gain nothing.\n If you're going to be petty and vengeful be smarter. Don't vent in her face like a child, formulate a plot to destroy her." }, { "id": "t1_om1btji", "author": "/u/kobelco1", "updated": "2026-05-15T22:57:11+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om1btji/", "content": "If you have no intention of coming back to this firm, or better still this industry, give it back to her, with interest. Swinging for the the win!" }, { "id": "t1_om1c9dj", "author": "/u/MyFavoriteDisease", "updated": "2026-05-15T22:59:47+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om1c9dj/", "content": "I did a skip level…..😈" }, { "id": "t1_om1cmor", "author": "/u/mcmnky", "updated": "2026-05-15T23:01:57+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om1cmor/", "content": "Write it all down in a letter. Then throw it away. Or burn it.\n We know you're not going back to work after retirement, but you never know who you'll run into later.\n I guess the question is this: F that manager, we agree. But if someone else overhears/reads your rant, and you run into them later in life, are they more likely to think better of you for standing up to that bad manager, or will they think less of you because of your outburst?" }, { "id": "t1_om1fa6j", "author": "/u/idio242", "updated": "2026-05-15T23:17:31+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om1fa6j/", "content": "I’m with you on the dashes. Been dashing since I was on bbs’s." }, { "id": "t1_om1ffb9", "author": "/u/UKEE93", "updated": "2026-05-15T23:18:21+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om1ffb9/", "content": "Fuck it: go scorched earth on the bitch!" }, { "id": "t1_om1fv35", "author": "/u/jzzlr", "updated": "2026-05-15T23:20:55+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om1fv35/", "content": "Order the biggest shrimp platter then go to town on it. You know what to do from there." }, { "id": "t1_om1i378", "author": "/u/sdbest", "updated": "2026-05-15T23:34:00+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om1i378/", "content": "Yes, you'll likely get some immediate short-term satisfaction by "going out swinging." But, there'll be no longer term benefit, and you may create an 'enemy' who can adversely affect you at some later date. There is no upside to what you'd like you to do beyond the immediate, delightful gratification. Not suggesting what you should do, just suggesting you might want to consider more potential consequences." }, { "id": "t1_om1imnv", "author": "/u/bortsback", "updated": "2026-05-15T23:37:12+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om1imnv/", "content": "I would find the middleground between saying nothing and overreacting. I would put my resignation in in a public setting like a staff meeting, while professionally telling her all of the things you want to get off your chest. No cursing and no yelling or temper tantrum. A calm and well articulated 🖕🏼. Make it so good that others will think "hmm that was a really great idea. I can't wait to do that when I hit FIRE"" }, { "id": "t1_om1lvso", "author": "/u/viper233", "updated": "2026-05-15T23:56:34+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om1lvso/", "content": "Zero.\n That's about how many fks you'll give in a couple of months. It's never a good idea to burn bridges.. be kind... really, really, really kind.. to the point your boss looks like a complete psycho. Those above her might take notice?\n "Bye, all the best for the future".. don't spend anymore breath on this person.... or the job." }, { "id": "t1_om1mb6x", "author": "/u/adultdaycare81", "updated": "2026-05-15T23:59:06+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om1mb6x/", "content": "No one cares but you. So I doubt it will actually matter" }, { "id": "t1_om1mi8b", "author": "/u/Accomplished-Pea-451", "updated": "2026-05-16T00:00:16+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om1mi8b/", "content": "Ask her to lunch and lay her out…" }, { "id": "t1_om1n5jm", "author": "/u/LouAldoRaine", "updated": "2026-05-16T00:04:09+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om1n5jm/", "content": "r/seinfeld" }, { "id": "t1_om1nc39", "author": "/u/LenyTheBarg", "updated": "2026-05-16T00:05:15+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om1nc39/", "content": "Wherever I go I apply the following principle.\n I want the people who I want to work with again to want to work with me again.\n If you manager is toxic that reputation builds. Exit interviews help their managers build signals.\n One on one chats are a great way to vent without blowing up everything.\n Just be clear, yes im leaving because of the manager, is the manager the only reason - usually not - but there is nothing wrong with doing a business appropriate fuck you.\n I dont burn bridges whenever possible you never know what life will bring." }, { "id": "t1_om1p6jn", "author": "/u/Baconator_B-1000", "updated": "2026-05-16T00:16:33+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om1p6jn/", "content": "Your peers - and maybe you don't care at this point- aren't going to stand up and clap when you go off.\n Every time I've seen someone go scorched earth on the way out, all I feel is second hand embarassment for them. Go out on your own terms with dignity and grace." }, { "id": "t1_om1r3n4", "author": "/u/wiley_bob", "updated": "2026-05-16T00:28:25+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om1r3n4/", "content": "You gonna slip her a Mickie?" }, { "id": "t1_om1s1n0", "author": "/u/davinox", "updated": "2026-05-16T00:34:25+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om1s1n0/", "content": "Email her boss." }, { "id": "t1_om1v7y0", "author": "/u/Electrochemist_2025", "updated": "2026-05-16T00:54:22+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om1v7y0/", "content": "I don’t see m—dashes in your post:-) — -" }, { "id": "t1_om1yxmx", "author": "/u/Oshester", "updated": "2026-05-16T01:17:28+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om1yxmx/", "content": "Send a company wide video about how AI is killing kids and society. play it bigger than one douche bag. You're leaving tech altogether. Tell em why." }, { "id": "t1_om20s6u", "author": "/u/sweet_tea_pdx", "updated": "2026-05-16T01:29:12+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om20s6u/", "content": "Slide. When I leave I am not going to say things that don’t actually means anything. “Working here shaped my life. I worked here for a significant amount of my life and I hope each and every one of you know what I feel about the time I spent with each and every one of you.”" }, { "id": "t1_om27ah5", "author": "/u/Legal-Statistician2", "updated": "2026-05-16T02:10:09+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om27ah5/", "content": "Take the high road.\n This will be the last impression you make on some people.\n Stay classy." }, { "id": "t1_om28mst", "author": "/u/TheSleeperWakes", "updated": "2026-05-16T02:18:38+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om28mst/", "content": "Those are n dashes" }, { "id": "t1_om2a31n", "author": "/u/Competitive_War6612", "updated": "2026-05-16T02:27:54+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om2a31n/", "content": "Picturing Smokey in Half Baked" }, { "id": "t1_om2bsyo", "author": "/u/RockyRaccoon72", "updated": "2026-05-16T02:39:00+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om2bsyo/", "content": "u/antidentities 100% I would. I have worked for several cunts like her. And some real Mangina pricks too. Tell her straight up. It's healthy." }, { "id": "t1_om2c0mn", "author": "/u/dr_groo", "updated": "2026-05-16T02:40:22+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om2c0mn/", "content": "The best vengeance is a life well lived" }, { "id": "t1_om2qeri", "author": "/u/Strange-Term-4168", "updated": "2026-05-16T04:20:51+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om2qeri/", "content": "Better of just saying whatever you want and do quiet quitting. Respond however you want when she does something, but don’t purposely try to make a big show about it." }, { "id": "t1_om2ssdp", "author": "/u/WeRunUltras", "updated": "2026-05-16T04:39:01+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om2ssdp/", "content": "That’s not an em-dash btw, this is —" }, { "id": "t1_om2y2xu", "author": "/u/mista-sparkle", "updated": "2026-05-16T05:21:26+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om2y2xu/", "content": "I never want to - or need to - return to tech (note: I used em dashes way before AI and won’t stop even if you think this is AI generated)!\n Well I have good news for you then: those are hyphens, not em dashes.\n - : hyphen (yours)\n – : en dash\n — : em dash" }, { "id": "t1_om31qio", "author": "/u/Interesting_Round110", "updated": "2026-05-16T05:52:12+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om31qio/", "content": "those arent em dashes" }, { "id": "t1_om37b10", "author": "/u/KevinCarbonara", "updated": "2026-05-16T06:40:15+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om37b10/", "content": "I never want to - or need to - return to tech (note: I used em dashes way before AI and won’t stop even if you think this is AI generated)!\n Don't worry, those aren't emdashes." }, { "id": "t1_om3913f", "author": "/u/Slow-Telephone-8746", "updated": "2026-05-16T06:55:13+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om3913f/", "content": "Don’t burn bridges …….ever. Take the high road and just move on. She is not going to change and neither are you going to feel better. Fast forward and look at the outcome, if you are leaving there is none to be had." }, { "id": "t1_om3ak3p", "author": "/u/Affectionate_Self878", "updated": "2026-05-16T07:08:26+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om3ak3p/", "content": "Those aren’t em dashes." }, { "id": "t1_om3arb3", "author": "/u/InfiniteNerve1384", "updated": "2026-05-16T07:10:11+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om3arb3/", "content": "Just be the bigger person and leave, never think of that bitch again." }, { "id": "t1_om3j4e6", "author": "/u/Good_Phone4355", "updated": "2026-05-16T08:26:26+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om3j4e6/", "content": "Tell her you get covid and insist to be office in person. Being professional until she cross the line" }, { "id": "t1_om3tgfc", "author": "/u/wonkwonk2stonkstonk", "updated": "2026-05-16T10:01:30+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om3tgfc/", "content": "Let it go, and go live your life happily. Revenge is for the vengeful, and what rational person wants their input on everyday life." }, { "id": "t1_om3wha3", "author": "/u/UverZzz", "updated": "2026-05-16T10:27:43+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om3wha3/", "content": "Tell her boss.\n Let her come to you then blast it all on her." }, { "id": "t1_om3xpft", "author": "/u/GuidanceOk4531", "updated": "2026-05-16T10:38:07+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om3xpft/", "content": "It will feel good but I wouldn’t burn the bridge. You can’t predict the future so it’s possible you’ll go want to or need to go back one day. Even if you never go back you may want a reference letter from them for another position." }, { "id": "t1_om42cro", "author": "/u/cameraguyphotodude", "updated": "2026-05-16T11:14:33+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om42cro/", "content": "Report to HR and then if you reallllllllllllllly want you could maybe drop a little Constanza style on the way out AFTER the hr exit interview. I do agree with most people here not to say anything but if you have already done the exit interview and talked to HR then i don’t think much is stopped you from a “last goodbye”" }, { "id": "t1_om47svd", "author": "/u/gimperion", "updated": "2026-05-16T11:53:55+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om47svd/", "content": "Might be unpopular opinion but how you go out (or do anything for that matter) says something about you, not your manager or company.\n You're never going to need those bridges in the future if they're toxic but you still need to look yourself in the mirror every day." }, { "id": "t1_om4a5il", "author": "/u/askmeabiutlife", "updated": "2026-05-16T12:09:33+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om4a5il/", "content": "I saw a prank where this guy’s friend wrote his number in a port-a-potty with “Send me a picture of your poop, I want to see it” and he was still getting pictures of poop over a year later. She’ll be very confused and disgusted and there’s no real way to trace it back to you" }, { "id": "t1_om4b304", "author": "/u/100Miler", "updated": "2026-05-16T12:15:34+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om4b304/", "content": "I’m in a similar situation. I’m just taking the high road, being nice, and will drop my resignation letter without drama. Keeping my composure as best as I can. I represent me as best as I can." }, { "id": "t1_om4fbs2", "author": "/u/NickGerzHughJasshole", "updated": "2026-05-16T12:42:33+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om4fbs2/", "content": "Just slide it into her on your last day if she gives consent" }, { "id": "t1_om4otk4", "author": "/u/Past-Butterscotch-68", "updated": "2026-05-16T13:38:02+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om4otk4/", "content": "I would just walk quietly into the sunset and try to leave on a good note.\n I 100% have been in your shoes with asshat supervisors that are just horrendous people making my life a living hell.\n When I was 22 I blew up on a supervisor and walked out and it kind of backfired. The next few jobs I put in for my previous supervisor basically told them I was a shit employee (which I wasn’t, I only had excellent reviews) and I missed out on a few good opportunities.\n You may not have this issue if you can retire now, but if something comes up and you have to get back into the workforce this may bite you in the bum." }, { "id": "t1_om4qenl", "author": "/u/antidentites", "updated": "2026-05-16T13:46:51+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om4qenl/", "content": "I would normally agree and would give this advice to most others. However, I’ve reached FIRE and absolutely don’t need to - nor want to - return to this industry ever again.\n It’s time for me to try something completely new after a nice, long break." }, { "id": "t1_om4rf83", "author": "/u/Past-Butterscotch-68", "updated": "2026-05-16T13:52:27+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om4rf83/", "content": "This is a tough one.\n If I knew without a doubt that I didn’t have to go back to work it would be extremely difficult not to go scorched earth.\n I am a little empathetic, so if I did go scorched earth I would feel bad about it later. Maybe not for a while, but at least a few hours 😂" }, { "id": "t1_om4qge8", "author": "/u/Quant_Smart", "updated": "2026-05-16T13:47:07+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om4qge8/", "content": "Come in drunk and pee in the hallways" }, { "id": "t1_om4tc95", "author": "/u/Aggravating_Ship5513", "updated": "2026-05-16T14:02:52+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om4tc95/", "content": "Those are en dashes" }, { "id": "t1_om4ti1v", "author": "/u/EastSwim3264", "updated": "2026-05-16T14:03:43+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om4ti1v/", "content": "I hear you. I have been there. The amount of stupidity is so high that you are not gonna fix it. Please let it slide." }, { "id": "t1_om4z211", "author": "/u/The-zKR0N0S", "updated": "2026-05-16T14:32:57+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om4z211/", "content": "What is there to gain?" }, { "id": "t1_om4zkq4", "author": "/u/db11242", "updated": "2026-05-16T14:35:35+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om4zkq4/", "content": "Would I behave like a spoiled child because i'm angry and frustrated? I'll pass thanks." }, { "id": "t1_om52f3g", "author": "/u/BraveRefrigerator552", "updated": "2026-05-16T14:50:05+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om52f3g/", "content": "(Those are hyphens with spaces)" }, { "id": "t1_om54n2j", "author": "/u/iwasbornlucky", "updated": "2026-05-16T15:01:21+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om54n2j/", "content": "I live by a 3-tiered feedback policy when I don't like something or someone:\n 1) If they stink so much but they're not hurting anyone else, don't say anything. Make it someone else's vendetta and give yourself peace because you won't get satisfaction. They'll step into a bad situation with a bad person and regret it, and you don't have to be forged into a bad person's memory\n 2) If they stink but they're going to hurt someone else, tell their boss\n 3) If they stink but you don't hate them, tell them nicely and hope they take it well\n You seem to be #1 or #2. In either case, you don't want to go through life where a person and all their friends hates you back. Just be chill and enjoy your good situation." }, { "id": "t1_om54ojf", "author": "/u/TinyConfection7049", "updated": "2026-05-16T15:01:33+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om54ojf/", "content": "It never helps to complain about your manager. Even at an exit interview. Just move on." }, { "id": "t1_om5g944", "author": "/u/Economy_Fan_8520", "updated": "2026-05-16T15:58:48+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om5g944/", "content": "say something in private to rile her up then step out immediately in to a common area and hope she comes out and embarrasses herself" }, { "id": "t1_om5qc7q", "author": "/u/himynameis_", "updated": "2026-05-16T16:50:01+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om5qc7q/", "content": "Nah, dude. Just leave with your head held high.\n The Costanza stuff is great tv but it's not great in real life. You won't change anything nor make any difference. Just do your time, walk out, and that's that.\n The rest of your life is far more important than burning bridges." }, { "id": "t1_om5rxcc", "author": "/u/ChutneyWhatney", "updated": "2026-05-16T16:57:54+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om5rxcc/", "content": "I'd let it go. You sound like you're a better person than she is." }, { "id": "t1_om5uixu", "author": "/u/threeputzzz", "updated": "2026-05-16T17:10:48+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om5uixu/", "content": "Heard a story from an old co-worker that someone in their group once left his resignation letter on his boss’s desk late one night then proceeded to drop his pants and leave something else on his boss’s desk." }, { "id": "t1_om5unxz", "author": "/u/Jealous-Gazelle1197", "updated": "2026-05-16T17:11:29+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om5unxz/", "content": "I would post it in the team channel tbh. I'm sure there are others that would appreciate you publicly calling out bad behavior" }, { "id": "t1_om69lmp", "author": "/u/StrikeScribe", "updated": "2026-05-16T18:26:20+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om69lmp/", "content": "I thought you meant another type of swinging. :)" }, { "id": "t1_om6fw7v", "author": "/u/GrassYes", "updated": "2026-05-16T18:59:10+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om6fw7v/", "content": "Technically those are hyphens. Although you are using them the way an em dash would be used." }, { "id": "t1_om6v3h3", "author": "/u/satiredun", "updated": "2026-05-16T20:19:29+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om6v3h3/", "content": "The only reason this is ever worth it for me is if it makes lives better for the remaining employees. If you’re miserable, likely so are they" }, { "id": "t1_om6wv3p", "author": "/u/neoreeps", "updated": "2026-05-16T20:28:50+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1te8wft/go_out_swinging/om6wv3p/", "content": "If that's the type of person you are,it makes me think she might be the victim of having to manage a horrible employee and responded in kind." } ] }, { "source": "r/Fire top month", "id": "t3_1tglu8n", "title": "Why is Susie Orman so against FIRE?", "author": "/u/Available-Ad-5670", "updated": "2026-05-18T12:57:08+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/", "content": "She keeps saying you need 5-10m if not 20-100m to retire.\n Obviously this is not realistic for 99% of people. But why does she say this? What's her ulterior motive?\n edit - I listened to the podcast someone linked below: and she's saying 80k after taxes will not be enough for anyone to live on, and that you need to plan on living on 350k-400k after taxes so you need 6-10 million dollars. It makes me think she is completely out of touch with reality.\n submitted by /u/Available-Ad-5670\n [link] [comments]", "contentHtml": "

She keeps saying you need 5-10m if not 20-100m to retire.
Obviously this is not realistic for 99% of people. But why does she say this? What's her ulterior motive?

edit - I listened to the podcast someone linked below: and she's saying 80k after taxes will not be enough for anyone to live on, and that you need to plan on living on 350k-400k after taxes so you need 6-10 million dollars. It makes me think she is completely out of touch with reality.

submitted by /u/Available-Ad-5670
[link] [comments]", "comments": [ { "id": "t1_omh5ow8", "author": "/u/smuttynoserevolution", "updated": "2026-05-18T12:58:38+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omh5ow8/", "content": "Stress you out so you feel like you need to listen to her for advice and spend money with her sponsors to be successful." }, { "id": "t1_omhmkl6", "author": "/u/Heffe3737", "updated": "2026-05-18T14:25:17+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omhmkl6/", "content": "Look, if you believe that you need $5-10 million dollars to retire then you’ll buy her products, and then *she* can retire with $20-100 million dollars." }, { "id": "t1_omhq53h", "author": "/u/Any-Concentrate-1922", "updated": "2026-05-18T14:42:06+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omhq53h/", "content": "No, she already retired once but got so bored that she came back. She's just projecting her own needs onto the needs of her viewers." }, { "id": "t1_omicsix", "author": "/u/nicolas_06", "updated": "2026-05-18T16:25:32+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omicsix/", "content": "Exactly. If you need a 5 million home and spend 500K a year for your lifestyle, you need almost 20 millions. That's math.\n Now consider a 250K home and 50K per year and you can do it with 1.5 million. If it's a few years only before SSA would kick in, you need even less.\n What is stupid is to think we all have then same priorities and same life." }, { "id": "t1_omje7mo", "author": "/u/Bubbasdahname", "updated": "2026-05-18T19:35:06+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omje7mo/", "content": "Well, that's assuming the person makes 500k a year before retirement. If one only makes 100k a year, I don't see how they can expect to have enough to spend 350 to 500k a year after retirement." }, { "id": "t1_omjynwo", "author": "/u/nicolas_06", "updated": "2026-05-18T21:10:10+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omjynwo/", "content": "Yup exactly that make no sense to live all your life with 100K a year, not retire yet so that maybe when you are 70 or 80 you can finally spend 500K year just before you die." }, { "id": "t1_omk2535", "author": "/u/Heffe3737", "updated": "2026-05-18T21:26:59+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omk2535/", "content": "Only if they're investing $50k of that $100k for the next 30 years. That seems...a bit unrealistic though." }, { "id": "t1_omk3saa", "author": "/u/Bubbasdahname", "updated": "2026-05-18T21:35:15+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omk3saa/", "content": "I came up with ~6 million based on 30 years and 4200 a month. It's that what you came up with? 4% of that isn't close to the 350k to 500k gross though unless you're talking about a higher withdrawal rate." }, { "id": "t1_omk6q6o", "author": "/u/Heffe3737", "updated": "2026-05-18T21:50:40+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omk6q6o/", "content": "$50k/yr at 10.5% avg gains for 30 years gives me just over $10mil. 4% is $400k. That's nominal returns of course." }, { "id": "t1_omk7sg7", "author": "/u/nicolas_06", "updated": "2026-05-18T21:56:17+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omk7sg7/", "content": "But why ? If you save 50K a year on 100K, you have 40-50K remaining. Why live 40 years with 40-50K net so that you have 10 million and like with 400K when you are 65-70 ?\n On top it's not even sure if the market is bad in the last years, you would have only 5-7 million, not 10 millions and would have to work until the market recover. If you do that in 2000, it took like 13 years..." }, { "id": "t1_omk8a89", "author": "/u/Heffe3737", "updated": "2026-05-18T21:58:55+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omk8a89/", "content": "Oh I didn't claim it was a smart thing to do, or even rational. Just pointing out that it *could* be done and what would be needed." }, { "id": "t1_omksgi2", "author": "/u/Bubbasdahname", "updated": "2026-05-18T23:54:16+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omksgi2/", "content": "I calculated 8% returns. 10.5% is rather high." }, { "id": "t1_oml3b1c", "author": "/u/Heffe3737", "updated": "2026-05-19T00:56:57+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/oml3b1c/", "content": "That's closer to the historical avg for the s&p500. I'd use 7-8% if I was trying to account for inflation. Again, the 10.5% was for nominal returns." }, { "id": "t1_omjph22", "author": "/u/jhonkas", "updated": "2026-05-18T20:27:34+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omjph22/", "content": "did she get bored or did she run out of money lol" }, { "id": "t1_omhrj5c", "author": "/u/Spartikis", "updated": "2026-05-18T14:48:31+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omhrj5c/", "content": "Agreed. FIRE isnt her target audience. She is looking for people who want to be "Rich Rich" not just comfortably retired. Because those people will 1) never achieve that and always be customers and 2) be willing to spend a lot more money for her "wisdom" to immense wealth.\n It's in a way similar to Dave Ramsey, he is very anti-FIRE, but his target audience is the opposite, its folks heavily in debt. The FIRE message is for the most part free and openly available, making it hard for someone to monetize, they need some secret sauce, a proprietary system you have to pay for. DR is anti-fire because he cant control the message or benefit financially from it. Im not hating on DR, its just a simple business decision." }, { "id": "t1_omi7ikc", "author": "/u/HiddenStoat", "updated": "2026-05-18T16:01:07+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omi7ikc/", "content": "The FIRE message is for the most part free and openly available\n You saying this has literally just made me realise how similar the health and finance industries are.\n At their core, both have an incredibly simple approach which anyone can follow. For health it's "eat less and exercise more" and for finance it's "spend less and save more".\n There are more advanced strategies available, but for 95% of people, the above messages will meet their needs.\n But there is an entire industry over both of these topics devoted to making it seem harder than it is, because the actual hard part isn't "what to do", it's "how to have the willpower to do it"." }, { "id": "t1_omimgdi", "author": "/u/Spartikis", "updated": "2026-05-18T17:09:09+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omimgdi/", "content": "Well said! The will power to take action is what most people lack. The math behind personal finance is not hard, anyone who has passed 7th grade math can figure it out. They want it to seem like its more difficult than it is, that you have to rely on some highly paid advisor to help you." }, { "id": "t1_omhx8sc", "author": "/u/Acceptable-Peace-69", "updated": "2026-05-18T15:14:36+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omhx8sc/", "content": "Oh, he deserves your hate." }, { "id": "t1_omi4g8h", "author": "/u/ShittingOutPosts", "updated": "2026-05-18T15:47:15+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omi4g8h/", "content": "I love the DR clips from years ago where he calls people stupid for investing in certain things that would have made them incredibly rich today had they done so. He’s just a scammer disguised as someone trying to help." }, { "id": "t1_omi6bev", "author": "/u/DeaderthanZed", "updated": "2026-05-18T15:55:42+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omi6bev/", "content": "With perfect hindsight we’d all be billionaires." }, { "id": "t1_ommggqw", "author": "/u/Fit-Percentage-9166", "updated": "2026-05-19T06:18:48+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/ommggqw/", "content": "The outcome is completely irrelevant to how smart or stupid their decision was. I would have made an insane amount of money if I put my entire networth into dogecoin in late 2022 and you would be right to call me stupid for doing that." }, { "id": "t1_omkl4pf", "author": "/u/Electronic_Theory429", "updated": "2026-05-18T23:11:52+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omkl4pf/", "content": "yes!!!!" }, { "id": "t1_omi6u1q", "author": "/u/ItWasMyWifesIdea", "updated": "2026-05-18T15:58:02+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omi6u1q/", "content": "Dave Ramsey also just fundamentally doesn't understand FIRE" }, { "id": "t1_omibwa4", "author": "/u/Distinct-Story-6359", "updated": "2026-05-18T16:21:25+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omibwa4/", "content": "Look at all the disclaimers at the end of anyone that is a “financial guru”. They basically say, this is not financial advice and talk with a professional about your specific situation." }, { "id": "t1_omh7ica", "author": "/u/librijen", "updated": "2026-05-18T13:08:32+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omh7ica/", "content": "I didn't listen to her a lot when I was younger, but I wish I had listened to her even less. Thank goodness for reddit." }, { "id": "t1_omhjxo0", "author": "/u/Apart-Disaster-3085", "updated": "2026-05-18T14:12:34+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omhjxo0/", "content": "I watched a lot of suze in the mid 2000s, and I learned a shit ton of great financial literacy from her. I never remember her pushing sponsors, maybe that is a newer development." }, { "id": "t1_omi40vl", "author": "/u/ThisIsMyUsername303", "updated": "2026-05-18T15:45:21+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omi40vl/", "content": "Agreed. I loved “can I afford this?”" }, { "id": "t1_omkle3s", "author": "/u/Major-Literature2714", "updated": "2026-05-18T23:13:23+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omkle3s/", "content": "She would get so mad at people on that segment and I loved it!\n “You have been DENIED, you CANNOT afford it!”" }, { "id": "t1_omlsx0y", "author": "/u/ThisIsMyUsername303", "updated": "2026-05-19T03:24:51+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omlsx0y/", "content": "“Boyfriend, you cannot afford it.”" }, { "id": "t1_omqz4m5", "author": "/u/bakochba", "updated": "2026-05-19T21:25:52+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omqz4m5/", "content": "She was Caleb Hammer before Caleb Hammer" }, { "id": "t1_omi638s", "author": "/u/KungFuBucket", "updated": "2026-05-18T15:54:40+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omi638s/", "content": "I listened to her when I was younger as well. I think she has a decent message for those that want to accumulate wealth and be “rich” if that’s your big priority. That’s her target audience, to slowly build wealth over time and be wealthy when you die.\n For me, my priorities changed just before my 40’s. I found my self aligning more with FIRE principles, I’d hit numbers that I would be comfortable with in retirement, and her message didn’t really resonate with me after that point and I stopped listening to her show." }, { "id": "t1_omitir4", "author": "/u/Apart-Disaster-3085", "updated": "2026-05-18T17:43:43+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omitir4/", "content": "I sorta disagree that her message was to be rich, exactly, unless that is what you want to see in it. If there was anything I learned from her it was financial security . Low-fee index funds - diversify between bonds/stocks and rebalance - importance of building emergency funds - living below your means (i.e. 'can you afford it' (hint, pretty much she always said you cannot)) - living will and revocable trusts to protect your assets- etc, etc. It was about financial security. There are plenty of hacks on CNBC that are about seeking highest returns to get rich - Suze was different, which is what I liked about her. I think a lot of what she said fits within FIRE just fine - FIRE just takes the savings rate to a further degree and the investment risk to a higher degree. (well, as for reddit, FIRE people can sometimes fetishize poverty living as long as that means you don't work. I want the option of early retirement, but my goal in life is happiness, and the FI is more important to that than the RE, but I still like my job)" }, { "id": "t1_omj73m5", "author": "/u/KungFuBucket", "updated": "2026-05-18T18:58:13+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omj73m5/", "content": "Which is all part of the “build wealth slowly” philosophy, each step builds upon itself and protects and prepares you for the next step. As the saying goes, it’s not how much you make, it’s how much money you keep." }, { "id": "t1_omhe20y", "author": "/u/AggressiveWallaby975", "updated": "2026-05-18T13:43:05+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omhe20y/", "content": "Don't forget the most important part; you'll keep busy working for less than your worth for a longer time like a good little worker bee.\n She's just doing her part trying to support the charade" }, { "id": "t1_omhkbkn", "author": "/u/abrandis", "updated": "2026-05-18T14:14:26+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omhkbkn/", "content": "She's also woefully out of date and still have a world view of the 1970-1990.. these are boomers people, they grew up in a very different world 🌎 than the one that exists today. During their formative years they could buy a home, invest and watch everything just go north. They had fewer once in a lifetime black swan (covid, 2008, 2001, etc.) which gave them lots of runway to grow their money..... Plus they're all deca millionaires+ they're financial view of the world is seen through that lens..." }, { "id": "t1_omirh0d", "author": "/u/donutello2000", "updated": "2026-05-18T17:32:10+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omirh0d/", "content": "The part about no crashes is just nonsense: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Black_Monday_(1987)\n And the dot-com and 2008 crashes affected Boomers more than other generations because they had more to lose.\n Covid wasn’t really any more than a blip after which the market pumped. If anything, it’s the tear that the market has been on since 2009 that is the unprecedented thing.\n (White) Boomers have had it good but the lack of stock market crashes is not one of the reasons why." }, { "id": "t1_omj2ntw", "author": "/u/gloriousrepublic", "updated": "2026-05-18T18:36:09+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omj2ntw/", "content": "This is an ignorant take with recency bias. 1970s with massive inflation saw negative real returns. Black Monday.\n Yes housing is more expensive today, but focusing on simple numbers loses context and hacks into our doom porn bias. It fails to account for a few things - changes in sizes to houses, inflation and wages. Houses built today are much larger. I’ll arbitrarily choose a year to compare - let’s look at 1985 vs today. Since 1985, houses today per square foot and corrected for inflation are only 30% higher. Yes it’s more difficult to find a small house today, but it’s also unfair to be comparing much larger houses to smaller houses. And yes, certain markets have certainly grown more unaffordable than others - I’m just looking at overall average, since we are addressing a generational issue, not a city issue. The counter to this argument is always people’s anecdotes in specific areas rather than the stats.\n In the same timeframe, median real individual wages have grown 20% and median real household wages have grown 37%. This means people are still spending about the same amount of their income on housing per square foot as in 1985. I think housing is actually just as affordable today if you account for all these factors. The only disclaimer is that finding a smaller starter home is more difficult. The flip side is you can always buy a larger home and only live in the size of a smaller home and rent out a room, etc." }, { "id": "t1_omj6ck8", "author": "/u/abrandis", "updated": "2026-05-18T18:54:29+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omj6ck8/", "content": "Housing is just one of many issues, it's structural today, trying to do economic gymnastics to barely make your point about averages and per square foot misses the point .\n Go look at recent graduates and see how many aren't able to find reliable work in even tech careers. Go look at inflation, go look at interest rates kept artificially low for 13+ years since 2008 , go look at the rise of automation and the consolidation of pricing power.... Go look at healthcare and education costs increases way beyond cost of living ....\n It is harder today , because there's more qualified folks chasing fewer true openings, the modern economy favors those with capital and assets working class wages ...." }, { "id": "t1_omj9r6e", "author": "/u/gloriousrepublic", "updated": "2026-05-18T19:11:34+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omj9r6e/", "content": "It’s not economic gymnastics, it’s more detailed economic analysis to account for all of these structural issues that are changing so you aren’t comparing apples to oranges. It’s like bringing up that we have less leisure time than folks in the Middle Ages and whining that we have it so much harder than them. The stat is true, but the conclusion is faulty. I would still rather live in a society without that level of disease and mortality.\n You are pointing to individual statistics that seem “bad” but fail to take in further context.\n Let’s choose one that you brought up - inflation for example. It’s often pointed to in order to show how things are worse today. But why do we care about inflation? Because we are thinking about whether we have less buying power today. That’s always the implication when talking about inflation, but fails to account for the other price of buying power: wages. Go look at how real wages since the 1980s. These are wages that have been corrected for inflation. Another way to look at it would be you could look at nominal wages vs inflation on the same graph. Inequality in wage growth has increased (its own problem) but wages for every quintile of income have outpaced inflation for decades. This means that despite inflation, workers today have more buying power, full stop.\n You are making bro-science, doom porn economic analysis which is completely detached from real analysis. And I don’t blame you - there’s tons of it out there right now because we live in an attention economy and the woe-is-me narrative is highly addictive. There are lots of individual stats that if you look at without context seem scary. These stats are made more scary because they are always reported or shared in a way meant to grab your attention, the best way of which is hacking into your doom porn bias. Real academic analysis of economics shouldn’t be doing this.\n I’d highly recommend adding this book to your reading list: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Factfulness" }, { "id": "t1_omh6zk9", "author": "", "updated": "2026-05-18T13:05:44+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omh6zk9/", "content": "[deleted]" }, { "id": "t1_omh78cl", "author": "/u/Metboy1970", "updated": "2026-05-18T13:07:03+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omh78cl/", "content": "Don’t forget about her book(s). Have to buy her books so you can get rich like her." }, { "id": "t1_omh8npj", "author": "/u/palpablescalpel", "updated": "2026-05-18T13:14:42+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omh8npj/", "content": "AI\n https://www.pangram.com/history/c313fa78-8ac0-499c-a2a6-ddd29c232fb8?ucc=49JeR9tvXgx" }, { "id": "t1_omhafn1", "author": "/u/Zphr", "updated": "2026-05-18T13:24:10+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omhafn1/", "content": "Rule 8/Limits on AI/bot content and unsupported AI/bot complaints - Your submission has been removed for violating our community rule against AI/bot content or unsupported AI/bot complaints. If you feel this removal is in error, then please modmail the mod team. Please review our community rules to help avoid future violations." }, { "id": "t1_omtjm8w", "author": "/u/CarnageAsada-", "updated": "2026-05-20T07:02:10+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omtjm8w/", "content": "Only answer" }, { "id": "t1_omh5rv0", "author": "/u/alefeusch", "updated": "2026-05-18T12:59:05+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omh5rv0/", "content": "She spends like crazy. Take a look at her lifestyle. She can't relate to a modestly frugal retiree." }, { "id": "t1_omh6lww", "author": "/u/Montaigne_6823", "updated": "2026-05-18T13:03:40+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omh6lww/", "content": "Which is crazy, retiring on 2-5 mil does not have to be frugal at all." }, { "id": "t1_omh7dku", "author": "/u/OHYAMTB", "updated": "2026-05-18T13:07:50+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omh7dku/", "content": "80k off of 2M is “moderately” frugal I think. 200k off 5M is definitely not" }, { "id": "t1_omh7u6k", "author": "/u/Purple-Property8006", "updated": "2026-05-18T13:10:16+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omh7u6k/", "content": "80k is significantly more than the median American makes. It’s on par with median *household* income." }, { "id": "t1_omh84yd", "author": "/u/Montaigne_6823", "updated": "2026-05-18T13:11:53+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omh84yd/", "content": "And we're not talking about making 80k, we're talking about spending. For someone with a w2 job to be able to spend 80 need to make like 120 or more." }, { "id": "t1_omheklo", "author": "/u/thiney49", "updated": "2026-05-18T13:45:43+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omheklo/", "content": "You'll need to 'make' more than 80k to spend 80k in retirement, unless you're in an entirely tax-free situation." }, { "id": "t1_omhptqr", "author": "/u/mi3chaels", "updated": "2026-05-18T14:40:38+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omhptqr/", "content": "If you're married filing jointly and half your stash is in taxable or Roth, you can easily spend 80k without paying any federal tax, so it would just be state -- maybe 4-5% and sometimes 0%. No need to pay FICA or set anything aside for retirement. no need for life or disability insurance. No commuting costs.\n So maybe most people withdrawal 80k can't spend 80k , but they can probably spend 75k, while someone working and making 80k can only spend around 60k if they want to have any financial security (and a normal retirement) at all. And the early retiree will have fewer necessary expenses, and might have a paid off house too.\n Also if you're retiring in your 50s, you're close enogh to start planning for social security in the mix, so you can probably draw 100-110k on a 2mil portfolio. 2mil is plenty for a comfortable retirement outside of very high cost areas -- and even in VHCOL 2mil plus a paid off living space is plenty.\n Not for everyone obvs, but for most people this would be a very comfortable lifestyle." }, { "id": "t1_omiso6u", "author": "/u/bazkin6100", "updated": "2026-05-18T17:38:43+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omiso6u/", "content": "the comment meant as a wage employee, not a retiree, you need make meaningfully more than $80k - federal, state, FICA, local taxes, and you need to save for retirement. So $120K probably makes sense" }, { "id": "t1_oml2pir", "author": "/u/mi3chaels", "updated": "2026-05-19T00:53:31+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/oml2pir/", "content": "i was responding to the person who said you need to make more than 80k to spend 80k in retirement and agreeing with the commenter who said it's more equivalent to making 120k while working, whether or not you are entirely tax free in retirement." }, { "id": "t1_omkekwh", "author": "/u/elsmoneyacct", "updated": "2026-05-18T22:34:18+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omkekwh/", "content": "On top of that - the average household making $80k gross is probably paying some kind of non-mortgage debt with that. Someone who is FIREd probably isn't. So it's literally all personal spend." }, { "id": "t1_omyi5zh", "author": "/u/sdce1231yt", "updated": "2026-05-20T23:27:20+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omyi5zh/", "content": "That is something I have thought of. According to Monarch Money, my spending last year was about $80K, but it was a bit of a transitional year between moving and other stuff. Also, about $28,876 of that was rent so if I didn’t have a mortgage and maybe my total “rent”/property tax and insurance was only $1,200 per month, that would be an extra $1,206 in spending. I also live in a major city so spending would be even less if I moved to a low cost of living area." }, { "id": "t1_omjxt6l", "author": "/u/liptongtea", "updated": "2026-05-18T21:06:09+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omjxt6l/", "content": "So you're saying a 2m nest egg going into retirement, plus SS and potentially another revenue stream would be good enough for MOST people if they aren't in debt?" }, { "id": "t1_ompfwhw", "author": "/u/chrisaf69", "updated": "2026-05-19T17:18:19+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/ompfwhw/", "content": "It all depends on said persons lifestyle.\n If one lives frugally and doesn't do much...sure. if one loves partaking in hookers and blow every single night...that 80k may not go far.\n I get those are absurd examples, but typically the more absurd the better it is to understand." }, { "id": "t1_omirp6a", "author": "/u/Jackieexists", "updated": "2026-05-18T17:33:22+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omirp6a/", "content": "How could you not pay federal tax? Don't think think that's possible Unless it's a Roth account" }, { "id": "t1_omj8ba9", "author": "/u/CericRushmore", "updated": "2026-05-18T19:04:15+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omj8ba9/", "content": "Standard deduction, long-term capital gain rates of 0%, forgeign tax credit on ETFs (if one has international funds), if one has kids additional dependent deductions." }, { "id": "t1_omjff4w", "author": "/u/Jackieexists", "updated": "2026-05-18T19:40:56+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omjff4w/", "content": "Long term capital gains 0% yes......but that's from a brockerage account.\n 401k gains are counted as income and will be paying federal income tax. No capital gains tax tho" }, { "id": "t1_omkfr7a", "author": "/u/NetherIndy", "updated": "2026-05-18T22:41:04+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omkfr7a/", "content": "Here's my exact numbers for 2026. Married filing joint:\n 457b withdrawals (think 401k, but no penalty for being under 59.5): $39,000\n Interest and non-qualified dividends: $9,000\n Contribute to HSA (maxed, but pretty close to what we spend on health in the year): -$8,750\n Qualified dividends and realized long-term capital gains: $24,000\n Cost basis in brokerage withdrawals: $18,000.\n Small Roth IRA 'withdrawal of contributions': $5,000.\n Spending ability: $95k. Taxable (excluding the QDI/LTCG in the 0% bracket): $39,250. Standard deduction $32,200. Federal tax: $705. Could easily have been completely zero, but I will have ~$500 in 'foreign tax paid' credit which would be lost if I didn't owe some tax so I made sure to have at least that much. Also - MAGI (for ACA insurance): $63,250. Our premium (after credits) for a Bronze ACA plan? $0.00." }, { "id": "t1_omi36fc", "author": "/u/DigmonsDrill", "updated": "2026-05-18T15:41:34+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omi36fc/", "content": "Worst case scenario (at federal level) is you are paying income tax rates as a less-than-65-yo single person on every single dollar. You need 91K income to have 80K to spend.\n https://engaging-data.com/tax-brackets/?fs=0&reg=91000&cg=0&yr=2026&gr=mekko&sd=0,0&it=0\n If you're MFJ just 86K is enough.\n This is just Federal level, can't say anything about individual states." }, { "id": "t1_omk6kxk", "author": "/u/ThirstyWolfSpider", "updated": "2026-05-18T21:49:54+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omk6kxk/", "content": "$80k for a married couple puts you solidly in the 0% LTCG bracket for US federal taxes. State is a different matter. It goes up to about $130k of gains, considering the standard deduction, and spend can be that plus your basis. All talking about fully-taxed accounts." }, { "id": "t1_omkh8aw", "author": "/u/joanmcq", "updated": "2026-05-18T22:49:30+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omkh8aw/", "content": "I moved to a zero tax state before I retired (semi, but nearly the same). I only net about 10k from my biz as does my husband’s wages. Started our social security last year when we got Medicare. AGI: $72k. Taxable income: $22k. Put $8k into my IRA!" }, { "id": "t1_omhihmn", "author": "/u/Montaigne_6823", "updated": "2026-05-18T14:05:25+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omhihmn/", "content": "Yes, that was implied... Also will probably make retirement contributions too." }, { "id": "t1_omhamsm", "author": "/u/epicallyconfused", "updated": "2026-05-18T13:25:13+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omhamsm/", "content": "And there are also a lot of people who make $80k but spend $120k. The average American household has $100k+ in debt." }, { "id": "t1_omhbm94", "author": "/u/nmanccrunner17", "updated": "2026-05-18T13:30:21+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omhbm94/", "content": "If that's excluding primary home mortgage, that is terrifying" }, { "id": "t1_omhdks7", "author": "/u/Automatic_Expert1295", "updated": "2026-05-18T13:40:36+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omhdks7/", "content": "Average non-mortgage household debt is $42,000, which is inflated by higher income households. Median is $19,000." }, { "id": "t1_omi393m", "author": "/u/Sam_in_Denver", "updated": "2026-05-18T15:41:55+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omi393m/", "content": "I am assuming this includes people who put 8k mo on their credit card each month and then pay it off fully each month to get cc points/perks. So, they're really not in a debt situation. Is that factored in?" }, { "id": "t1_omiz2sw", "author": "/u/TheRealJim57", "updated": "2026-05-18T18:17:17+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omiz2sw/", "content": "Car loans is my guess." }, { "id": "t1_omiq6nh", "author": "/u/Grim-Sleeper", "updated": "2026-05-18T17:25:53+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omiq6nh/", "content": "That's why my credit score can easily fluctuate ±50 points within a single month. A lot of this modelling is completely flawed because it doesn't account for people using their credit cards for normal cash flow without ever incurring any finance charges. I am amazed that this data isn't more easily available and considered in these models." }, { "id": "t1_ompmvtc", "author": "/u/Montaigne_6823", "updated": "2026-05-19T17:48:46+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/ompmvtc/", "content": "Why would it not include those people? Debt is debt." }, { "id": "t1_ompg1uf", "author": "/u/chrisaf69", "updated": "2026-05-19T17:18:58+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/ompg1uf/", "content": "I suspect so, but I think that use case is rare in the grand scheme of things." }, { "id": "t1_omivg6m", "author": "/u/Automatic_Expert1295", "updated": "2026-05-18T17:55:20+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omivg6m/", "content": "No idea" }, { "id": "t1_omt7ef7", "author": "/u/XBOX-BAD31415", "updated": "2026-05-20T05:21:03+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omt7ef7/", "content": "It’s not afaict. Certainly my credit report is constantly dinged for my 20-40k credit card debt. The fact I never actually carry a balance should be factored in I think. I actually felt pressured to get a new credit card to reduce my credit utilization. 😂" }, { "id": "t1_omhde3x", "author": "/u/ThePillsburyPlougher", "updated": "2026-05-18T13:39:38+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omhde3x/", "content": "Surely not, that level of debt at credit card or personal loan rates for an average American would be disastrous" }, { "id": "t1_omhtapm", "author": "/u/FireAsquared", "updated": "2026-05-18T14:56:35+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omhtapm/", "content": "Student loans are probably a big chunk of that\n I have ~65k of student loans (down from 105k) and a ~75k solar panel loan personally. The solar loan is 4.0% APY and monthly payment is equal to what my electricity cost prior to the panels anyways. Student loans are between 4.5 and 5.1% APY now (already paid off everything above 6)" }, { "id": "t1_omhejl4", "author": "/u/Own-Cheesecake-6397", "updated": "2026-05-18T13:45:34+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omhejl4/", "content": "Even up here in Canada debt loads are getting high. Never really had any debt except for a small student loan I paid of years ago. When I hear of the cc debt and car loans I shake my head. What happened to living within our means?" }, { "id": "t1_omhol3m", "author": "/u/Puzzleheaded_Tie6917", "updated": "2026-05-18T14:34:51+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omhol3m/", "content": "Living within your means and saving for a rainy day left with the parable of the ant and the grasshopper. That’s old school. New school is buying a new car every 3-4 years and never saving a dime, because this generation has it tough. Government needs to just give everything to you as long as you breathe and poop." }, { "id": "t1_omhd9ru", "author": "/u/Robbot24", "updated": "2026-05-18T13:39:00+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omhd9ru/", "content": "It almost certainly is. Two car loans, some sort of student loans and credit cards is all it would take for most households." }, { "id": "t1_omhoz8h", "author": "/u/586WingsFan", "updated": "2026-05-18T14:36:41+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omhoz8h/", "content": "When I graduated I was over $100k just with student loans, no CC or auto loans" }, { "id": "t1_omimt1b", "author": "/u/reichrunner", "updated": "2026-05-18T17:10:44+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omimt1b/", "content": "It is not. Median debt is $19k." }, { "id": "t1_omiruhu", "author": "/u/Robbot24", "updated": "2026-05-18T17:34:10+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omiruhu/", "content": "Pretty sure that’s just credit card" }, { "id": "t1_oml246k", "author": "/u/Classic_Breadfruit18", "updated": "2026-05-19T00:50:10+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/oml246k/", "content": "Just the average student loan bill with nothing else is over $44k.\n There is a massive amount of educational debt in America. Don't forget medical debt too which is not as common but rapidly growing." }, { "id": "t1_omheg9x", "author": "/u/poop-dolla", "updated": "2026-05-18T13:45:06+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omheg9x/", "content": "https://www.experian.com/blogs/ask-experian/research/consumer-debt-study/\n Your figure includes mortgage debt. The average non-mortgage debt per household is around $20k." }, { "id": "t1_omhqpvg", "author": "/u/mi3chaels", "updated": "2026-05-18T14:44:46+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omhqpvg/", "content": "It would take 2.5 years of that much overspending to generate 100k in debt, not even counting any accumulated interest. That's not even counting taxes etc.\n Of course there are people who spend that mch, but that level of overspending isn't sustainable for very long. Nobody does that for years on end because the credit will run dry.\n What happens is people sometimes do something like that for 1 or 2 years, thinking they'll catch up and handle it later, but then later comes, and they bring their regular spending down, but have so much debt service that they end up going super frugal just to keep the debt from spiraling." }, { "id": "t1_ompncym", "author": "/u/Montaigne_6823", "updated": "2026-05-19T17:50:49+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/ompncym/", "content": "People on FIRE subs love to imagine that anyone that has a nicer car/house/wahtever or spends more than them is actually poor and irresponsible." }, { "id": "t1_omj1td2", "author": "/u/Megalocerus", "updated": "2026-05-18T18:31:50+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omj1td2/", "content": "At effective federal rate of 17% and state 5% (it would actually be less, but based on over 65 rates without the special deduction) about $97,600. For FIRE, it might be a little higher. At 120K income, you are not generally in a 34% tax bracket." }, { "id": "t1_omit82c", "author": "/u/L3mm3SmangItGurl", "updated": "2026-05-18T17:41:59+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omit82c/", "content": "Same tax obligation if most of your retirement is in a 401k" }, { "id": "t1_omhdyg5", "author": "/u/voldin91", "updated": "2026-05-18T13:42:34+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omhdyg5/", "content": "It can be pretty frugal if you have kids" }, { "id": "t1_omht8ky", "author": "/u/Purple-Property8006", "updated": "2026-05-18T14:56:19+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omht8ky/", "content": "Obviously we can find all sorts of situations where $80k “isn’t that much” but the point stands that if one person is making approximately the median household income passively off their investments, it’s not so much about “being frugal” as much as it is “don’t be a spendthrift.” Lots of people raise kids on much less than $80k/year." }, { "id": "t1_omimz9i", "author": "/u/voldin91", "updated": "2026-05-18T17:11:31+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omimz9i/", "content": "Sure if it's one person, that's great spending money, I agree with you. My point was just that in a lot of cases it's not just one person living off that, it's a couple or family" }, { "id": "t1_omiuvov", "author": "/u/Apart-Disaster-3085", "updated": "2026-05-18T17:51:51+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omiuvov/", "content": "The median family suffers more than I want to suffer though. My goal retirement income is higher because I know what it was like when I made the median and I know what is like that I now earn 3 times the median (and not, that I need my current salary in retirement obviously, but 2 times the median is measurably more secure feeling and comfortable than the median)." }, { "id": "t1_omiwwl7", "author": "/u/Purple-Property8006", "updated": "2026-05-18T18:04:20+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omiwwl7/", "content": "If you have $2M in invested assets, you’re not suffering like the median family." }, { "id": "t1_omixb5c", "author": "/u/Apart-Disaster-3085", "updated": "2026-05-18T18:06:53+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omixb5c/", "content": "You have to be if you are FIRE 'ing with that number. You can't spend more than the 80K without risking your longer term." }, { "id": "t1_omizcjd", "author": "/u/Purple-Property8006", "updated": "2026-05-18T18:18:51+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omizcjd/", "content": "God this sub is so out of touch with reality sometimes.\n Most American families don’t have an extra $1k in the event of an emergency. To suggest that risking spending through your $2M is in any way comparable to the suffering experienced by millions of Americans struggling to make ends meet because of systemic income and wealth inequality is freaking tone deaf.\n Spend more than $80k when you have $2M and you’re “risking your long term.” BFD. Most Americans don’t have the luxury of even *considering* the long term." }, { "id": "t1_omkcth1", "author": "/u/Apart-Disaster-3085", "updated": "2026-05-18T22:24:10+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omkcth1/", "content": "I don't know what your point is. I am not complaining about my income, or trying to be a politician connecting with the 'average person'.\n I exactly agree with you that most american families don't have an extra 1K. That is my point, that "the median family suffers more than I want to suffer" and why "My goal retirement income is higher". If your goal is to make the average person income and sweat over a 1K bill in retirement, then go for it. Most people want at little more FI when they RE than that.\n And, this sub is FIRE, which, I don't particularly subscribe to entirely, but it centers around being able to become financially independent and retire early. That means, you need to have some amount of money that you are completely DEPENDENT on paying enough through the end your life to be financially independent so that you can retire early.\n If you have 2 million and think you can blow through it at more than 80K a year, then you'd fail in your FIRE mission." }, { "id": "t1_omken3l", "author": "/u/Groovyhip_69", "updated": "2026-05-18T22:34:39+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omken3l/", "content": "Why are you comparing the FIRE people on this sub with families who don’t have emergency funds? The people on this sub are making good life decisions and being disciplined in managing their money.\n And yes, if you spend too much, you will risk your long term. This is factually and mathematically true. How do Americans who don’t have the luxury of spending too much have anything to do with the discussion? Unless you expect FIRE people to just give their hard-earned money away to people who would just spend it all and remain poor." }, { "id": "t1_omkq5im", "author": "/u/Purple-Property8006", "updated": "2026-05-18T23:40:51+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omkq5im/", "content": "> people on this sub are making good life decisions and being disciplined\n > people who would just spend it all and remain poor.\n It’s that condescension and lack of empathy that is precisely what i mean when i say this sub is so out of touch with reality sometimes.\n I’m not making any commentary on how people should spend their money or on solutions for poverty. I’m simply saying that equating *eventually* potentially running out of money because you spend more than $80k annually and *not having $1k for an emergency* are in completely different ballparks of “suffering.”\n Making $80k annually in passive income is an extreme privilege, and it doesn’t necessitate an extreme level of frugality to live on barring exceptional circumstances." }, { "id": "t1_omhsfsh", "author": "/u/Lord_Alonne", "updated": "2026-05-18T14:52:40+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omhsfsh/", "content": "The vast majority of people making the median aren't going to be able to save $2m to retire let alone save it fast enough to reach FIRE." }, { "id": "t1_omh9aqt", "author": "/u/loud1337", "updated": "2026-05-18T13:18:06+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omh9aqt/", "content": "Good point, you are retiring when you have the median American income?" }, { "id": "t1_omhatnr", "author": "/u/Zonernovi", "updated": "2026-05-18T13:26:13+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omhatnr/", "content": "I didn’t. I like a nice cushion because life is full of potholes." }, { "id": "t1_omheprv", "author": "/u/loud1337", "updated": "2026-05-18T13:46:26+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omheprv/", "content": "90%+ of the people here will never retire when the have the median income because it's not enough. It's a dumb comment made all the time by people." }, { "id": "t1_omhy234", "author": "/u/CryptoCel", "updated": "2026-05-18T15:18:19+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omhy234/", "content": "That’s also likely because the types of locations FIRE folks live in also aren’t places you can find the median price of a house, median property and income taxes, and median cost of services. The median household income in my area $140k (mean is $200k). Ironically that’s probably right around my target annual withdrawal." }, { "id": "t1_omhklsl", "author": "", "updated": "2026-05-18T14:15:48+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omhklsl/", "content": "[deleted]" }, { "id": "t1_omjt6lj", "author": "/u/Groovyhip_69", "updated": "2026-05-18T20:44:30+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omjt6lj/", "content": "Is the median spending of 78k after-tax, and the 80k median income before tax? That is even more horrifying." }, { "id": "t1_omhtg5l", "author": "/u/treadingslowly", "updated": "2026-05-18T14:57:16+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omhtg5l/", "content": "Yes but in retirement health insurance can be significantly higher." }, { "id": "t1_omlhmyl", "author": "/u/SergeantPoopyWeiner", "updated": "2026-05-19T02:18:21+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omlhmyl/", "content": "Median household in America sucks fucking ass. I don't know why people think that is a good benchmark." }, { "id": "t1_omlp4y7", "author": "/u/Healthy_Hippo_915", "updated": "2026-05-19T03:02:06+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omlp4y7/", "content": "Median American maybe, but median household income is $83,730" }, { "id": "t1_omlsqgp", "author": "/u/soporificx", "updated": "2026-05-19T03:23:42+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omlsqgp/", "content": "they include part-time workers and retirees in that number though. It’s genuinely expensive to live these days." }, { "id": "t1_omsnml1", "author": "/u/Ridiculicious71", "updated": "2026-05-20T03:02:46+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omsnml1/", "content": "I’m not in support of what she says because it’s basically an impossible goal unless you’re rich. But 80 k is not really reasonable unless you have no debt and everything including your house is paid off. This also purports you have access to healthcare, which even Medicare will be insolvent by 2030. Factoring in massive inflation that will come from the horrible debt and tariffs, and having to plan for 30-40 years of income 100-150 k is more reasonable." }, { "id": "t1_omh9u9a", "author": "/u/ShootinAllMyChisolm", "updated": "2026-05-18T13:21:00+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omh9u9a/", "content": "These discussions tend to look at the wrong end. It’s more about spending levels.\n Most Americans don’t need to retire to HCOLA .\n $80k+social security is plenty in many areas of the country" }, { "id": "t1_omhocsn", "author": "/u/Inevitable_Pride1925", "updated": "2026-05-18T14:33:46+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omhocsn/", "content": "You’re missing the point. People don’t retire to HCOL areas. 25% of the population lives in HCOL/VHCOL areas. Many of those people want to stay near family, friends, and familiar surroundings.\n The last thing I want to do in my 50’s and 60’s let alone 70’s is move and start over again. I’m not alone in this.\n But as a result I’m planing for my current expenses in my local area. My house will be paid off so that will decrease things noticeably but taxes, insurance, HOA, and utilities are always going to be a factor and increase with inflation and therefor make up an increasingly larger portion of the house payment over time.\n Another factor is that medical care is much worse in LCOL areas. Especially rural areas. The lack of population means specialist support doesn’t exist. Hours may be shorter and you may have a very long travel time to the nearest ER. This significantly impacts events like stroke and heart attack. People that could have had mild impairment from stroke/HA will have severe impairment or death just due the time it takes to get them appropriate treatment.\n But it’s not a realistic assumption that retirees will move to LCOL & MCOL areas in retirement." }, { "id": "t1_omhcmdv", "author": "/u/Strazdas1", "updated": "2026-05-18T13:35:37+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omhcmdv/", "content": "80k is enough even in HCOLA." }, { "id": "t1_omhe13a", "author": "/u/ben7337", "updated": "2026-05-18T13:42:57+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omhe13a/", "content": "Depends on housing. In HCOL your home might be 1M or more, could easily cost $20k a year just in property taxes even if it's not particularly large/fancy/expensive beyond the land it's on. 1/4 of your budget going just to property taxes would make 80k pretty limiting, especially for a couple." }, { "id": "t1_omhg5ts", "author": "/u/SouthernZorro", "updated": "2026-05-18T13:53:48+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omhg5ts/", "content": "I live in Ohio and our property tax on our 3 br, 2.5 bath ranch house is 10K a year. Taxes and utilities in Ohio are absurdly high." }, { "id": "t1_omhihkv", "author": "/u/DueAuthor6113", "updated": "2026-05-18T14:05:25+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omhihkv/", "content": "Look at NJ!" }, { "id": "t1_ommept4", "author": "/u/Strazdas1", "updated": "2026-05-19T06:04:09+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/ommept4/", "content": "If you want to live in a mansion, sure. Or if you want to live with a view of central park in new york. For the majority of HCOL cities housing is nowhere near that." }, { "id": "t1_omnqjbi", "author": "/u/ben7337", "updated": "2026-05-19T12:26:01+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omnqjbi/", "content": "I was checking basic 3 bed 2 bath houses in the cheapest spots I could find in LA as an example. If you want a view of central Park in NYC that'll be at least 2-3M just for the property, then the HOA will be 2-6k a month plus another 2k a month in taxes. At that rate you're paying a minimum of 50k just in taxes and fees to live in NYC within a block of central Park. You might want to use an app like redfin to check actual property prices and costs before making claims that aren't backed by data" }, { "id": "t1_omhh6gu", "author": "/u/Neither-Bag7127", "updated": "2026-05-18T13:58:52+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omhh6gu/", "content": "Lol what you people consider limiting is crazy. Some people die in the street and some people are like "80k for free and I only get to keep 75% of it after I live in my fully furnished house in a mice area???" The purge can't come soon enough." }, { "id": "t1_omhmxq2", "author": "/u/ben7337", "updated": "2026-05-18T14:27:00+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omhmxq2/", "content": "Can you make a budget for 2 people on 60k living in a paid of house? I know it's technically possible to live on that, quite comfortably, with good food, cheap cars replaced every 10 years, etc. however my math says you'd have hardly any money to travel or do any activities beyond cook at home and stay home on 60k a year, and for someone who's retired early with nothing but free time, that sounds pretty miserable to not be able to do anything except free activities" }, { "id": "t1_omhs6dk", "author": "/u/FireAsquared", "updated": "2026-05-18T14:51:29+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omhs6dk/", "content": "I live off ~86k take home with a $3000/month mortgage and $1250/month student loans\n So around $35,000 for utilities, food, and hobbies for me and my partner. Roughly 3k/month\n Monthly budget: Groceries are ~$800/month (could survive off $300-400 but I eat crab/lobster/steak regularly, once to twice a week normally)\n Utilities are ~$450 (but $300 of that is a solar panel loan that will be gone in retirement- electricity was ~$350 prior to the solar)\n Gas is ~$140 for two cars\n Eating out is ~$400/month\n Insurance is ~$160 for two cars\n Subscriptions (gym & entertainment) is $120\n After all that we have ~$930 left per month\n We spend ~10k/year skiing although last year was only 8k as we went to smaller less touristy resorts (and we spent ~$5000 on Legos and took several smaller vacations instead of a full two weeks skiing like normal)\n With a paid off house and 60k/year to spend you could easily take 2 larger trips annually (or 1-2 international trips depending on where) and a dozen smaller trips while eating quality food and not having to worry too much" }, { "id": "t1_omhsrjx", "author": "/u/ben7337", "updated": "2026-05-18T14:54:10+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omhsrjx/", "content": "You're leaving out a lot of expenses. Where's your money for replacing your cars at some point, and maintaining the ones you do have? How about what health insurance costs when you're not on an employer plan? And Home maintenance? I'd estimate for a couple those 3 things easily cost around $25000 a year" }, { "id": "t1_omi27dv", "author": "/u/Neither-Bag7127", "updated": "2026-05-18T15:37:10+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omi27dv/", "content": "I live alone quite well with 60k pre tax" }, { "id": "t1_omhipqi", "author": "/u/KittyMimi", "updated": "2026-05-18T14:06:33+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omhipqi/", "content": "The $80k isn‘t free lol the previous commenter said $80k plus SS. The $80k goes bye-bye each year and if someone has saved even $1MM that would take only 12.5 years to be GONE just keeping it simple. Then nothing. Your purge comment is nasty, and it says a lot about you!" }, { "id": "t1_omi2rhg", "author": "/u/Neither-Bag7127", "updated": "2026-05-18T15:39:42+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omi2rhg/", "content": "Not if you invest with dividends instead of being a boogerhead that consumes 4% a year" }, { "id": "t1_ommf27l", "author": "/u/Strazdas1", "updated": "2026-05-19T06:07:00+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/ommf27l/", "content": "The situation here is 80k at safe withdrawal rate, so that money will not run out." }, { "id": "t1_omhf9sc", "author": "/u/thiney49", "updated": "2026-05-18T13:49:17+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omhf9sc/", "content": "80k qualifies as "very low income" in San Fransisco , for a family of two. It might be doable, but I certainly wouldn't want to." }, { "id": "t1_ommf917", "author": "/u/Strazdas1", "updated": "2026-05-19T06:08:35+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/ommf917/", "content": "For a family of two it would be 160k because its 80k per person. Also your link does not show what you claim." }, { "id": "t1_omhjgsw", "author": "/u/Affectionate-Panic-1", "updated": "2026-05-18T14:10:16+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omhjgsw/", "content": "Single with roommates or a couple with 2 80k incomes it's enough almost everywhere if you're frugal, but you're most likely not living alone in HCOL areas on that withdrawal." }, { "id": "t1_ommfn8h", "author": "/u/Strazdas1", "updated": "2026-05-19T06:11:54+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/ommfn8h/", "content": "You are insane. 80k single with no roomates is enough everywhere except the most expensive areas of most expensive cities. You do know you dont need to retire in penthouse downtown, yes?" }, { "id": "t1_omhb7n0", "author": "/u/Educational-Fix5320", "updated": "2026-05-18T13:28:14+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omhb7n0/", "content": "That's just your 4%...spending adds in Social Security payments...about 30k more" }, { "id": "t1_omj0bc6", "author": "/u/pdoherty972", "updated": "2026-05-18T18:24:04+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omj0bc6/", "content": "$80K in retirement withdrawals (inflation-adjusted each year too) is closer to labor income of $110K-$130K, since no FICA, retirement savings (which are large in this group) or work-related expenses come out of it." }, { "id": "t1_omiukl5", "author": "/u/Apart-Disaster-3085", "updated": "2026-05-18T17:49:57+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omiukl5/", "content": "In today' dollars, sure. But consider even a modest inflation rate though, and 5M in 20 years is like 2.5M today. When someone is working towards a retirement 'number', you have to consider what the value of the dollar will actually be by that point.\n I think $5M is a fair goal for retirement. People can shoot for less but they need to consider the tradeoff between the goal of financial independence and the stress of medical bills, food, and utilities. When I have financial independence, I don't want to fear the financial impact of my next insurance premium update or medical visit." }, { "id": "t1_omhcjcm", "author": "/u/Strazdas1", "updated": "2026-05-18T13:35:11+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omhcjcm/", "content": "80k is above median income." }, { "id": "t1_omheyv0", "author": "/u/themiracy", "updated": "2026-05-18T13:47:44+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omheyv0/", "content": "If you’re retiring today also, nothing has happened at this point to SSA benefits. So especially retirees today who have not retired early are going to be fine on 80k plus SSA unless they lived lavishly and didn’t save so they “only” had $2M but they made $500k a year (and honestly those cases are going to be very rare)." }, { "id": "t1_omrnzbn", "author": "/u/Slight_Extreme6603", "updated": "2026-05-19T23:38:04+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omrnzbn/", "content": "And I’m looking at 40k off of 1M. We really don’t spend more than that." }, { "id": "t1_omhc87s", "author": "/u/db11242", "updated": "2026-05-18T13:33:35+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omhc87s/", "content": "Susie lives on her own island and mostly only invests in ensured municipal bonds. So that's a little pricey." }, { "id": "t1_omhi9p7", "author": "/u/terjon", "updated": "2026-05-18T14:04:19+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omhi9p7/", "content": "Depends on where you live and your life situation. If you have a couple of kids and some health issues, that $100K-ish per year that a reasonable SWR would yield off a few million would not stretch very far in part of California or NYC.\n Meanwhile, if you have no kids and are reasonably healthy, $40K/yr might be just fine in a LCOL state." }, { "id": "t1_omhis6b", "author": "/u/Ok-Introduction-1940", "updated": "2026-05-18T14:06:52+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omhis6b/", "content": "Depends on where you live." }, { "id": "t1_omh9h2l", "author": "/u/kilimtilikum", "updated": "2026-05-18T13:19:01+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omh9h2l/", "content": "That Karen haircut ain’t cheap" }, { "id": "t1_omjg95d", "author": "/u/LegitimateOption3387", "updated": "2026-05-18T19:44:57+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omjg95d/", "content": "Had to google her. She is the actual Karen meme" }, { "id": "t1_omhtxgr", "author": "/u/bikeheart", "updated": "2026-05-18T14:59:27+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omhtxgr/", "content": "And what do you do with that extra 20-100m? You buy some nice, new, leopard print jackets ." }, { "id": "t1_omix5zh", "author": "/u/Habeas-Opus", "updated": "2026-05-18T18:06:00+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omix5zh/", "content": "Yep. Susie is the biggest victim of lifestyle creep. Cheap and happy for me!" }, { "id": "t1_omhtgcv", "author": "/u/Successful_Form1177", "updated": "2026-05-18T14:57:17+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omhtgcv/", "content": "I remember her once saying that eating at restaurants was incredibly wasteful because you can make food at home. I mean I like to cook, but we all need a break sometimes. I picture her living in some incredibly lavish house afraid to go outside lest she be tempted to spend money." }, { "id": "t1_omhu24g", "author": "/u/alefeusch", "updated": "2026-05-18T15:00:02+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omhu24g/", "content": "She owns a private island, multiple houses and a yacht. The fact that she shames people for eating at a restaurant sometimes is insane." }, { "id": "t1_omj8b7n", "author": "/u/Significant_Cell5676", "updated": "2026-05-18T19:04:14+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omj8b7n/", "content": "If one is living on a private island, then they are likely not going out to eat at restaurants. Of course, having a chef on staff to prepare your meals isn't exactly cheap. (Caveat: I have no personal knowledge whether she employs a household chef. But it would not shock me if she did.)\n And I have no problem if she does live a life most would call lavish. To each their own. However, we plebians are equally free and justified to take umbrage at moralizing aimed in our general direction." }, { "id": "t1_omhdrkt", "author": "/u/fredinNH", "updated": "2026-05-18T13:41:35+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omhdrkt/", "content": "True and then she talks about how buying a bmw was one of the great financial mistakes of her life." }, { "id": "t1_omt848j", "author": "/u/XBOX-BAD31415", "updated": "2026-05-20T05:26:44+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omt848j/", "content": "And then she bought 4 more!! (Probably)" }, { "id": "t1_omianc5", "author": "/u/afleetingmoment", "updated": "2026-05-18T16:15:39+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omianc5/", "content": "One of my favorite Kristen Wiig impressions:\n https://www.tiktok.com/@thealmanac77/video/7488434450754325765" }, { "id": "t1_omj2sas", "author": "/u/Megalocerus", "updated": "2026-05-18T18:36:45+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omj2sas/", "content": "I remember her numbers started going off the deep end. People seem to do okay (not FIRE but social security age) with a paid off (or low interest) house and cars and around 500K. Not a lot of foreign trips." }, { "id": "t1_omjaytk", "author": "/u/Wilhelm-Edrasill", "updated": "2026-05-18T19:17:40+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omjaytk/", "content": "so - in other words, why were any fucks given towards - yet another out of touch rich person???" }, { "id": "t1_omkvotw", "author": "/u/Civil-Service8550", "updated": "2026-05-19T00:13:00+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omkvotw/", "content": "Bingo. I can’t retire to my private island on $4 mm!!!" }, { "id": "t1_omh5vec", "author": "/u/theplushpairing", "updated": "2026-05-18T12:59:38+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omh5vec/", "content": "Fear based content drives engagement" }, { "id": "t1_omhdnct", "author": "/u/SpaceJesusIsHere", "updated": "2026-05-18T13:40:59+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omhdnct/", "content": "Mixed with: If your content actually solves your viewer's problem, they don't need to keep coming back." }, { "id": "t1_omi3v0q", "author": "/u/Dmoan", "updated": "2026-05-18T15:44:37+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omi3v0q/", "content": "Because in US the rich need a constant stream of people working aka worker participation rate to keep wages low. So it’s cheap for people like her to maintain her mansions and businesses.." }, { "id": "t1_omlam3u", "author": "/u/InternetRando12345", "updated": "2026-05-19T01:38:35+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omlam3u/", "content": "This. You can retire quite quickly if you're saving 40% to 100% of your target income (not percentage of take home).\n I save something like 150 to 200% of my target income per year plus whatever market growth. You need either high income or a strong hustle, combined with a low FIRE income, or even better with both.\n Best way is to live in a HCOL / VHCOL area and be as frugal as possible...3 or 4 roommates, no car (if there's public transit or safe biking), etc.\n Let's say you gross 80k (low to medium income in San Francisco...just barely above the minimum wage for salaried employees).\n 6% or so into 401k for max match or about 5k. 3k for healthcare premiums...get a HIgh deductible plan and dump $4000+ into an HSA (whatever the HSA limit is). 16k standard deduction. Minus 6k for social security, medicare. Another 4k for state taxes\n You're left with $80k - (5k 401k + 3k health + $4k HSA + 16k standard deduction) = 46k taxable. About 6k federal bringing total taxes to 16k. This leaves you with 30k living expenses with 5k 401k saved , 2k match (if 3% limit, 4k HSA for 11k saved.\n Get your rent and utilities to $1200 or less with roommates. 2 couples in a 2 bedroom for example. We'll say $15k total for housing. Keep your food and entertainment to $5k or less per year and you can save another $10k (Roth plus brokerage).\n That brings total savings to $21k on $80k gross. Suppose you were to target living in a LCOL area where $2k per month was enough. You'd be saving 88% of target. Although there's restrictions on it from the 401k / HSA.\n If you keep your spending in that range, any income higher than this will directly add to savings (after taxes). +$20k minus $6k more taxes takes savings from $21k to $35k or very close to 150% of a target 24k per year income. Or get some extra money from a side hobby. If you can make $1k per month from a geographically portable side hustle with say 40 to 60 hours or less, then your "FIRE" number drops to only +1k per month (300k with 4% rule). FIRE means you drop to only working on your side hustle\n Yes, it will be hard to live like this, but if you can do it for 3 to 5 years, you'll get your portfolio to the point where it starts snowballing and then you can spend more money or have less/no roommates, etc.\n Also, all the above is about progress towards FIRE. Doing the above for just 1 year is going to give you a lot more financial safety net and already helps remove the fear of job loss so you don't have to stay with a shitty employer." }, { "id": "t1_omi1dt5", "author": "/u/DigmonsDrill", "updated": "2026-05-18T15:33:26+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omi1dt5/", "content": "And all it takes are one or two horror stories of people retiring with "just $3 million" and things going to hell." }, { "id": "t1_omi3xhh", "author": "/u/Bonti_GB", "updated": "2026-05-18T15:44:55+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omi3xhh/", "content": "She already had 10’s of millions and was on the way out when this movement became larger.\n She wasn’t really wrong. Is FIRE great for some? Absolutely.\n Was she worried about people who thought they could FIRE with a million dollars at 32 and may not make it 50 years? Yeah, she wasn’t wrong about that.\n A million dollars in those episodes 10+ years ago is like 700k in purchasing power now and they’d have 40 years to go.\n She was just cautious to a mass audience which is the responsible thing to do. There’s no one size fits all for everyone so she’d rather put more people in position for long term success than put people in a position to struggle." }, { "id": "t1_omibahb", "author": "/u/Fjogaseri", "updated": "2026-05-18T16:18:37+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omibahb/", "content": "10 years ago the SPX stood at 2000. Now we are at 7400. And that is not including dividends. People who had 1m invested 10 years ago, who withdrew 4 % a year, are just fine today, with around 3m in the market. They are fine." }, { "id": "t1_omjalng", "author": "/u/Bonti_GB", "updated": "2026-05-18T19:15:50+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omjalng/", "content": "- If they only took 4%.\n- If the stock market went up\n- If they remained healthy\n- Etc. If they took 4% each year they’d likely be closer to 2m, not 3m.\n The above is not guaranteed, especially amongst the masses, you’re proving my point.\n It’s the idealistic view vs. the cautious view for the masses when the future isn’t guaranteed." }, { "id": "t1_omigwh3", "author": "/u/Excellent-Crab5598", "updated": "2026-05-18T16:44:18+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omigwh3/", "content": "Hate, sex, anger, love and fear are social medias bread and butter. Think about everything you click on is one of those five things." }, { "id": "t1_omiswoq", "author": "/u/Determined420", "updated": "2026-05-18T17:40:06+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omiswoq/", "content": "That sounds about right" }, { "id": "t1_omh69gp", "author": "/u/Popularpressure29", "updated": "2026-05-18T13:01:47+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omh69gp/", "content": "I’m sorry needing $100 million to retire is bananas" }, { "id": "t1_omh7rd0", "author": "/u/B00marangTrotter", "updated": "2026-05-18T13:09:51+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omh7rd0/", "content": "Thank you for putting this in a scale I understand." }, { "id": "t1_omhb116", "author": "/u/63crabby", "updated": "2026-05-18T13:27:17+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omhb116/", "content": "Underrated, trending comment. Good job." }, { "id": "t1_omhbnui", "author": "/u/odeebee", "updated": "2026-05-18T13:30:36+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omhbnui/", "content": "Even if a banana costs what ... ten dollars?" }, { "id": "t1_omhoynu", "author": "/u/ClingTurtle", "updated": "2026-05-18T14:36:37+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omhoynu/", "content": "There’s always money in the banana stand." }, { "id": "t1_omhftg9", "author": "/u/Gillemonger", "updated": "2026-05-18T13:52:04+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omhftg9/", "content": "10 million bananas then. If you ate them all at once you could go sterile from the radiation." }, { "id": "t1_omhijob", "author": "/u/terjon", "updated": "2026-05-18T14:05:42+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omhijob/", "content": "He's more banana than man, twisted and yellow." }, { "id": "t1_ommyai1", "author": "/u/7urz", "updated": "2026-05-19T08:58:22+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/ommyai1/", "content": "6 million dollars )" }, { "id": "t1_omhjytq", "author": "/u/Due_Barber_525", "updated": "2026-05-18T14:12:43+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omhjytq/", "content": "What could retiring cost Michael? 5-10 million a year?" }, { "id": "t1_omh9clp", "author": "/u/jelle814", "updated": "2026-05-18T13:18:22+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omh9clp/", "content": "it's nowhere near enough! how will you pay for your yacht with less than 20 million a year?" }, { "id": "t1_omhf0kt", "author": "/u/mnemoniker", "updated": "2026-05-18T13:47:59+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omhf0kt/", "content": "That's literally insane. I wonder if she's being misrepresented. Most people can retire on $1-3 million and nobody needs more than $10 million, and that's if you live in a HCOL area. More than that and find a freaking charity and make a difference in other people's lives for gods sakes (and you should still donate to worthy causes if you have more than you absolutely need)." }, { "id": "t1_omhipf4", "author": "/u/terjon", "updated": "2026-05-18T14:06:30+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omhipf4/", "content": "But what if you're into watersports?\n A yacht, sportsboat, seadoo and parasailing budget will cut right into $3M real quick." }, { "id": "t1_omhu01z", "author": "/u/Albert14Pounds", "updated": "2026-05-18T14:59:46+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omhu01z/", "content": "Most people will be forced to retire on less or never able to retire" }, { "id": "t1_omjhll8", "author": "/u/jrdhytr", "updated": "2026-05-18T19:51:23+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omjhll8/", "content": "nobody needs more than $10 million\n She's talking about her needs and you're talking about yours. Neither applies to everyone. For people like her, $10M is the bottom of the wealth ladder. For us, it looks like the top.\n But, let's not forget that her income is dependent on selling a product that she must continue to convince people they need. People figuring it out on their doesn't enrich her." }, { "id": "t1_omilzoy", "author": "/u/HonestOtterTravel", "updated": "2026-05-18T17:07:05+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omilzoy/", "content": "It’s only 2 million per year for 50 years if you assume 0% returns. Can barely afford to travel to your private island on that!" }, { "id": "t1_omht7lb", "author": "/u/PowerfulZucchini208", "updated": "2026-05-18T14:56:12+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omht7lb/", "content": "It’s one banana. What could it cost?" }, { "id": "t1_omi4sp4", "author": "/u/hooked-on-crocheting", "updated": "2026-05-18T15:48:48+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omi4sp4/", "content": "Like even if you kept your retirement funds in cash and wanted to fund 50 years of spending $100k per year, you’d only need $11-$12M to keep up with 3% inflation." }, { "id": "t1_omhmj6d", "author": "/u/Cyan2FA", "updated": "2026-05-18T14:25:06+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omhmj6d/", "content": "I and the vast majority of us are going to have lived our entire lives on multiples less than this, earned and invested. It’s like she can’t even hear herself." }, { "id": "t1_omkhl57", "author": "/u/Jaalan", "updated": "2026-05-18T22:51:31+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omkhl57/", "content": "Not at 9% inflation per year 😭" }, { "id": "t1_omkpleq", "author": "/u/Wise-Parsnip5803", "updated": "2026-05-18T23:37:37+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omkpleq/", "content": "Private jets don't fuel themselves." }, { "id": "t1_omrhsob", "author": "/u/AgPatriotAg", "updated": "2026-05-19T23:03:23+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omrhsob/", "content": "I mean... I don't doubt she said that... but seriously.. I want a video of that. 1/10th of a billion to retire? haha no way." }, { "id": "t1_omh5nm8", "author": "/u/30thCenturyMan", "updated": "2026-05-18T12:58:26+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omh5nm8/", "content": "Maybe she’s just out of touch?" }, { "id": "t1_omh6v43", "author": "/u/Sufficient_Fig_4887", "updated": "2026-05-18T13:05:04+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omh6v43/", "content": "Maybe? Definitely." }, { "id": "t1_omhm4n9", "author": "/u/gbacon", "updated": "2026-05-18T14:23:09+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omhm4n9/", "content": "She is announcing who her target market is." }, { "id": "t1_omhpw17", "author": "/u/Wheat_Grinder", "updated": "2026-05-18T14:40:55+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omhpw17/", "content": "She makes her money from content that runs against FI principles. It's much more purposeful than simply being out of touch." }, { "id": "t1_omhva98", "author": "/u/Past-Option2702", "updated": "2026-05-18T15:05:45+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omhva98/", "content": "Not against FI at all.. perhaps RE.\n Her entire thing is helping people achieve financial independence. You can fault her all you want for her methods." }, { "id": "t1_omirsfj", "author": "/u/Safe-Tennis-6121", "updated": "2026-05-18T17:33:51+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omirsfj/", "content": "100% out of touch.\n Or 100% wanting you to buy what she sells." }, { "id": "t1_omismr3", "author": "/u/dissentmemo", "updated": "2026-05-18T17:38:30+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omismr3/", "content": "No, it's the children who are wrong." }, { "id": "t1_omh66dv", "author": "/u/MiceAreTiny", "updated": "2026-05-18T13:01:18+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omh66dv/", "content": "Because Susie Orman is selling financial entertainment media. If she says: "100% in VWCE, wait 15 years",... she will sell very little...\n And by being emotionally about it, she gets extra engagement. Engagement is good for her sponsors.\n If everybody does FIRE or understand FIRE, she has no reason to exist. So clouding the playing field is in her best interests." }, { "id": "t1_omk4i6v", "author": "/u/justUseAnSvm", "updated": "2026-05-18T21:38:59+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omk4i6v/", "content": "lol, "Our next guests save 50% of their income, and want to talk about the best way to diversify into bonds between their taxable and non-taxable accounts. Let's start off with a reminder on the tax implications of various 401k accounts..."" }, { "id": "t1_ommi6sc", "author": "/u/MiceAreTiny", "updated": "2026-05-19T06:33:32+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/ommi6sc/", "content": "Sounds like my podcast library..." }, { "id": "t1_omh62aq", "author": "/u/LabOwn9800", "updated": "2026-05-18T13:00:41+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omh62aq/", "content": "I use to like Susie orman 15 years ago. Don’t bother with her now for a reason." }, { "id": "t1_omh6uuv", "author": "/u/Montaigne_6823", "updated": "2026-05-18T13:05:02+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omh6uuv/", "content": "I was gifted a book of hers when i graduated college back in 2010 and I thought it was a helpful book." }, { "id": "t1_omh99q0", "author": "/u/ColeLift", "updated": "2026-05-18T13:17:57+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omh99q0/", "content": "Yes, I was also gifted her Young/Fabulous book and it was the basis for my financial education. After we paid off my husband's CC debt and had a small e-fund, I 'moved out of the nest', did my own research, and never really thought of her again LOL." }, { "id": "t1_ommqz53", "author": "/u/Low-Apricot9917", "updated": "2026-05-19T07:50:50+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/ommqz53/", "content": "I agree she has helpful information. The key is to learn a little something from everyone." }, { "id": "t1_omhfpty", "author": "/u/On-Fire31631", "updated": "2026-05-18T13:51:33+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omhfpty/", "content": "Same here. I used to listen to her show early on. She gave some good advice: never carry a balance on your cc, pay off your home asap, understand and avoid fees when investing, live within your means, etc. But then she became irrelevant." }, { "id": "t1_omi7nje", "author": "/u/cat_in_a_bday_hat", "updated": "2026-05-18T16:01:45+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omi7nje/", "content": "and she started shilling for her own branded credit card or some such. that + the young broke fabulous book's advice of "just charge to finance your early career lifestyle" (it's been a while but i vaguely recall reading advice to that tune around 2008 and being like ... hmm.....), i dont listen to her at all anymore" }, { "id": "t1_omjcfte", "author": "/u/On-Fire31631", "updated": "2026-05-18T19:25:44+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omjcfte/", "content": "I know, such a disappointment! And why? She was such a brand! I loved “Women and Money”, learned a lot. I remember when she advised “first FICO then sex”! She is filthy rich and over 70, what is there to prove any more?" }, { "id": "t1_omi0p1z", "author": "/u/CryptoCel", "updated": "2026-05-18T15:30:18+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omi0p1z/", "content": "Because the advice became irrelevant once every other major personal finance personality said the same exact thing. Making a YouTube video explaining 1 + 1 =2 gets you fewer views than one explaining 1 + 1 =4" }, { "id": "t1_omipxdk", "author": "/u/Earth2Andy", "updated": "2026-05-18T17:24:45+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omipxdk/", "content": "Back in like 2005 I was working at FICO, she came to do a talk about investing and retirement but was mostly just hawking a book she’d written. This was a room full of math PHDs and she was talking to them like they were 12. Let’s just say the Q&A session did not go as she expected.\n I don’t many of the specifics, but I do remember someone just lighting her up on the subject of a 401k loan and her nonsense about ‘you get taxed twice’." }, { "id": "t1_omisum0", "author": "/u/LabOwn9800", "updated": "2026-05-18T17:39:46+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omisum0/", "content": "Yeah she’s like David Ramsey. Good to listen to early on in your journey or if you have a lot of debt but not a ton of knowledge on more advanced subjects.\n I liked her “can I afford it” segments. Made me feel better about myself lol." }, { "id": "t1_omiykvo", "author": "/u/darnelles-r", "updated": "2026-05-18T18:14:36+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omiykvo/", "content": "Agreed. They both had their place early on, but we’ve outgrown them (and now they just seem pretty gimmicky about everything). I’ve recently started watching a lot of Erin Talks Money on YouTube and I think she has a great approach to Retirement and FIRE." }, { "id": "t1_ommr80g", "author": "/u/Low-Apricot9917", "updated": "2026-05-19T07:53:05+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/ommr80g/", "content": "Great analogy. Learn a little something from each person. You don’t have to agree with everything." }, { "id": "t1_omh6ro2", "author": "/u/mishaindigo", "updated": "2026-05-18T13:04:33+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omh6ro2/", "content": "Same" }, { "id": "t1_omjir10", "author": "/u/MuffinTopDeluxe", "updated": "2026-05-18T19:56:43+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omjir10/", "content": "Her TV show helped get us on the same page financially when my husband and I got married. We watched it religiously and learned so much. I’ll be forever grateful for her show back then, but she doesn’t seem to understand FIRE at all." }, { "id": "t1_omsfya3", "author": "/u/80sMR2", "updated": "2026-05-20T02:18:06+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omsfya3/", "content": "Yeah, I ditched her years ago, especially after her abusive actions went public. She's definitely just entertainment like someone else said. There are so many more, better, resources out there." }, { "id": "t1_omh81xp", "author": "/u/zuckerkorn96", "updated": "2026-05-18T13:11:26+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omh81xp/", "content": "She’s a 74 year workaholic who doesn’t have any children. Same reason you heard about 90 year old law partners that die at their desks. Retirement is terrifying if your entire life and identity is tied to your job. I’d have cognitive dissonance too." }, { "id": "t1_omhfmj3", "author": "/u/Turbulent-Scratch401", "updated": "2026-05-18T13:51:05+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omhfmj3/", "content": "Being a workaholic and not having children aren’t mutually exclusive." }, { "id": "t1_omh5tpt", "author": "/u/pixelpionerd", "updated": "2026-05-18T12:59:22+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omh5tpt/", "content": "She's catering to very wealthy people because that is her job." }, { "id": "t1_omhb3cm", "author": "/u/epicallyconfused", "updated": "2026-05-18T13:27:37+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omhb3cm/", "content": "Nah, she is catering to her sponsors because selling the fantasy of wealth is her job." }, { "id": "t1_omhpwar", "author": "/u/NaiveChoiceMaker", "updated": "2026-05-18T14:40:58+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omhpwar/", "content": "Her target audience is middle america. Very wealthy people are not reading her advice column about how they need to stop eating out." }, { "id": "t1_omhb5wr", "author": "/u/worstshowiveeverseen", "updated": "2026-05-18T13:27:58+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omhb5wr/", "content": "She's a tool of the elite" }, { "id": "t1_omh76zj", "author": "/u/Sintered_Monkey", "updated": "2026-05-18T13:06:51+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omh76zj/", "content": "She is worth $75 million herself, so she's probably a bit out of touch." }, { "id": "t1_omib6jj", "author": "/u/Beneficial_Equal_324", "updated": "2026-05-18T16:18:06+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omib6jj/", "content": "It seems like in her world there are two extremes - people who are heavily in debt and need basic financial advice, and people with extreme wealth who live extravagant lifestyles. I wonder if she even knows anyone who lives a more modest lifestyle but lives within their means. As far as I know she was never an actual fiduciary finanical advisor. She was a college dropout who worked briefly in finance before becoming an advice hustler. I think it is a good microcosm of relying on mass media to understand how things actually work." }, { "id": "t1_omria1j", "author": "/u/AgPatriotAg", "updated": "2026-05-19T23:06:03+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omria1j/", "content": "Pa Ingalls shot animals and lived off that in the big woods. He got his food. Had his cabin. Had his wife and children. Suzie never talks about somebody going off grid and building a cabin in modern day. It really could be a "VERY DIFFERENT" but effective method of FIRE. What if you bills were less than $10k / yr.?" }, { "id": "t1_omh646v", "author": "/u/tombiowami", "updated": "2026-05-18T13:00:58+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omh646v/", "content": "Maybe you have not noticed...folks on tv/sm like her get more attention when they say outrageous things. More attention means more ads, more money.\n And all of it is based on sparking more anxiety so people come back for more." }, { "id": "t1_omk4svi", "author": "/u/justUseAnSvm", "updated": "2026-05-18T21:40:36+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omk4svi/", "content": "Same thing happened to Caleb Hammer. It started as a show to help people out of credit card and student loan debt, now it's a spectacle of people making terrible decisions, finance just being one of them." }, { "id": "t1_omh5z7r", "author": "/u/Odd_String1181", "updated": "2026-05-18T13:00:13+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omh5z7r/", "content": "Who?" }, { "id": "t1_omhcijo", "author": "/u/SBNShovelSlayer", "updated": "2026-05-18T13:35:04+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omhcijo/", "content": "This is the real answer. She has gotten to the point where she just says stupid shit for "clicks". I mean, here we are talking about her, yet I can't think of the last time I heard her say anything meaningful or new." }, { "id": "t1_omh7mnq", "author": "/u/someguy984", "updated": "2026-05-18T13:09:10+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omh7mnq/", "content": "Private islands are not cheap." }, { "id": "t1_omkhq1q", "author": "/u/alces12", "updated": "2026-05-18T22:52:17+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omkhq1q/", "content": "They sold the island and bought a condo in Florida!" }, { "id": "t1_omh8dhy", "author": "/u/moneyman74", "updated": "2026-05-18T13:13:10+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omh8dhy/", "content": "Haven't listened in 20 years but even then she said she kept $2 million in cash lol....I think her idea of a 'lifestyle' is pretty high." }, { "id": "t1_omho4g3", "author": "/u/JohnnySpot2000", "updated": "2026-05-18T14:32:38+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omho4g3/", "content": "She was probably worth $20 or $30m then so I don’t think $2m in cash equivalents is ridiculous." }, { "id": "t1_omhbj2f", "author": "/u/Pretty-Balance-Sheet", "updated": "2026-05-18T13:29:54+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omhbj2f/", "content": "Man I have a lot of respect for Suze Orman. When my wife and I were just starting her financial advice was really fundamental. We started watching her show when our household income was $40k and her message of frugality and having safety nets really resonated with us.\n The 'can I afford it' segment was always so interesting and kind of mind blowing. I wonder if she's talked to so many people without a fire mindset, people who impulsively spend, that she believes everyone is like that? She spent years talking to people who make $50k and want to buy a Lambo.\n More likely she is an over planner and the potential for catastrophic sequence of returns is too much for her? Maybe she feels some emotional liability? Like if she tells someone to fire and they fail that she's given bad advice?\n Whatever it is I appreciate her for the good advice she does give." }, { "id": "t1_omi43hs", "author": "/u/bicyclewhoa17", "updated": "2026-05-18T15:45:41+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omi43hs/", "content": "A couple years ago they found a tumor in her neck and her chances of being able to walk again after surgery were very low. I think any advice she gives now (post 2020 or so) is heavily influenced by her age and health. I always think that her heart is in the right place but her advice is hard for me to take seriously because her perspective is very different than my own. Thanks for spelling her name right too. Everyone in this thread has it wrong lol" }, { "id": "t1_omk8u5z", "author": "/u/Pretty-Balance-Sheet", "updated": "2026-05-18T22:01:54+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omk8u5z/", "content": "That's really interesting. I haven't watched her show or really heard anything about her in about 20 years. Glad she's still around. I really miss all of those come to jesus moments with callers who just had insane finances.\n It was a huge insight to watch her show about realize "we only make $40k per year but we're in a better financial situation than those callers making $20k per month."\n I didn't discover FIRE until probably six or seven years after I stopped watching her show and for my wife and I (who were already very frugal but a little financially lost) it was a revelation. Suze Orman's show was just a huge dose of really great perspective every single time. FIRE was the cherry on top." }, { "id": "t1_omlp8tg", "author": "/u/sparkyblue5", "updated": "2026-05-19T03:02:45+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omlp8tg/", "content": "Yeah, I think she’s been in this game for so long and has seen so many people lose their homes (subprime mortgage crisis), fall prey to financial abuse (she has a great series educating women on that), and get stuck in debt that she’s overly cautious.\n I pretty much stopped following her when she kept predicting (often incorrectly, no surprise) the timeframe of The Next Big Crash and then getting a little too into Bitcoin trading. But she was valuable in my early saving/investing journey (max out that Roth IRA, kids!), and my wife and I would watch her show together and talk about finances. But most of us here have long graduated from Suze School." }, { "id": "t1_omh607s", "author": "/u/Shrappy16", "updated": "2026-05-18T13:00:23+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omh607s/", "content": "She’s most likely paid well to be a salesperson for products. Haven’t watched her in years but I’m guessing she’s plugging wealth management products and herself. This is her business and she needs you to stay in the rat race as long as possible." }, { "id": "t1_omh6t9d", "author": "/u/No_Effect_6428", "updated": "2026-05-18T13:04:47+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omh6t9d/", "content": "Here's how it would go were I to believe her:\n "I'll never get close to 5 million. All I have is this lousy $___ (whatever) and that'll never get me to early retirement."\n "It will, however, make a swell down payment on a boat and/or RV. Maybe like one of the ones advertised by my good friend Suze!"" }, { "id": "t1_omh6m92", "author": "/u/milktoastok", "updated": "2026-05-18T13:03:43+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omh6m92/", "content": "If everyone does FIRE, nobody needs to buy her books." }, { "id": "t1_omh67n8", "author": "/u/RenoGuy25", "updated": "2026-05-18T13:01:30+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omh67n8/", "content": "Because it's not part of her brand. She gains nothing from promoting it. And if you want to be a little generous and assume some good intentions she might be worried that her followers, who are almost exclusively people that struggle to manage their own finances, are probably not good candidates for quitting work and trying to make their assets last the rest of their lives." }, { "id": "t1_omhk26v", "author": "/u/filledwithstraw", "updated": "2026-05-18T14:13:10+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omhk26v/", "content": "I don't wanna be out here defending Suze Orman but the snippets of her show I've seen (mostly thru Last Week Tonight) are all people who want to do extravagant things like take a 2 week $20,000 vacation and they're $100,000 in credit card debt. Or buy a $80,000 car and they make $40,000 a year. So telling her main fanbase that they can't retire unless they have some unattainable amount of money is probably in their best interests." }, { "id": "t1_omh730f", "author": "/u/pobox01983", "updated": "2026-05-18T13:06:16+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omh730f/", "content": "Sell fear, so people listen to you.\n This strategy has been working for 1000s of years." }, { "id": "t1_omhb6ru", "author": "/u/Zonernovi", "updated": "2026-05-18T13:28:06+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omhb6ru/", "content": "Works for politicians" }, { "id": "t1_omh7a9u", "author": "/u/Darth_Boggle", "updated": "2026-05-18T13:07:20+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omh7a9u/", "content": "These people make money from outrage and ratings. She's also probably paid to push a consumerist agenda.\n Susie Orman doesn't give af about you or your financial situation. Ignore her existence" }, { "id": "t1_omh69rc", "author": "/u/IceCreamforLunch", "updated": "2026-05-18T13:01:49+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omh69rc/", "content": "Her whole shtick is to drive engagement by yelling bombastic stuff at people." }, { "id": "t1_omh6r07", "author": "/u/Numerous-Bet-4847", "updated": "2026-05-18T13:04:27+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omh6r07/", "content": "Susie Orman has been out of touch for some 40 years now." }, { "id": "t1_omh7kaa", "author": "/u/RestAndVest", "updated": "2026-05-18T13:08:49+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omh7kaa/", "content": "They want everyone working until death." }, { "id": "t1_omh9hbr", "author": "/u/Designer_Solid4271", "updated": "2026-05-18T13:19:04+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omh9hbr/", "content": "Omg does she really say you need 20-100m to retire? Good grief I’m glad I don’t listen to her.\n There’s a strong chance I’ll be looking at $5m by 62 and I’m trying to fathom having (not needing, but budgetary wise having available) to spend down that much money. Do I want more? Sure. More is always better. But when you look at the average/median amount of retirement savings people in this country have, having even $1m is substantially more the like 98% of the population." }, { "id": "t1_omnyunx", "author": "/u/Impossible-Will-8414", "updated": "2026-05-19T13:12:05+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omnyunx/", "content": "She says this about EARLY retirement. Wrong as well, but..." }, { "id": "t1_omhbfxk", "author": "/u/MaineSky", "updated": "2026-05-18T13:29:26+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omhbfxk/", "content": "Yeah this wasn't her pitch 15 years ago. Back then she was all about teaching young, broke people how to start to get financially independent. Like, from your parents and why you should absolutely contribute to your 401k.\n Her points now:\n\n- She thinks AI is going to make the unemployment rate 25% by 2030. Nuts.\n- She also thinks that the tax brackets will skyrocket to try to account for it.\n\n- She spent almost $3million on her mom's end of life healthcare.\n\n- This is one area I do think a lot of people underestimate. My boomer parents didn't care about health or savings and retired early because they just felt like it. They came knocking, I told them to go back to work.\n\n- She thinks all the social programs will collapse. Medicare, medicaid, social security. And that we'll voluntarily grind ourselves down to pay for the boomer's medicare.\n- I thought the AI robots were going to take care of them susie? Yeah, boomers are going to need a lot of care very soon, and they'll need people to do it.\n- Most people's FIRE estimates don't rely on SS still existing. Mine certainly doesn't.\n- As those boomers start realizing these SOCIALIST programs are the only things keeping them alive, hopefully they'll start voting in accordance. I'm not saying they will, but honestly if I know boomers, they're going to vote for whatever helps THEM. Once they need it, they'll vote for it.\n- She thinks FIRE people aren't thinking about healthcare costs. HAHAHAHA\n- She also constantly contradicts herself. She brags about having so much money she lives on a private island and uses a private jet and that she literally cannot spend her money, and that she works when she wants to at 67 or not...\n- She's basically living proof that FIRE works (or can, even if you're a big spender), but she doesn't seem to realize it. It's kind of nuts.\n Her young/broke books from the 90's were a great starter on why you should start your 401k as soon as possible, but man- she has gone off the deep end. I can barely listen to her talk, she constantly contradicts herself, and she's so out of touch. Just another boomer screaming for the next generation to work ourselves to the bone to support them." }, { "id": "t1_omhd5vd", "author": "/u/Any-Huckleberry2593", "updated": "2026-05-18T13:38:26+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omhd5vd/", "content": "100%. She is trying to fit to the masses, hence finds herself contradicting. Her early shows for young, broke, and poor were good messages, but she ain’t no advisor. Just a coach.\n She lost herself .." }, { "id": "t1_omhbugq", "author": "/u/av_dss", "updated": "2026-05-18T13:31:35+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omhbugq/", "content": "Look at what she does. Don’t listen to what she said. $250k on $5 million is a nice retirement anywhere in the world." }, { "id": "t1_omhpwcu", "author": "/u/Any-Concentrate-1922", "updated": "2026-05-18T14:40:58+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omhpwcu/", "content": "Out of touch.\n I read that she retired, bought her own island, and planned to golf all day. She got bored after 6 months or so and returned to work. So therefore she thinks (a) you need tons of money to retire because of island purchases and expensive hobbies and (b) if you retire, you'll be bored. It's just her life and her bad planning/lack of life outside work." }, { "id": "t1_omh64pf", "author": "/u/Wide-Bet4379", "updated": "2026-05-18T13:01:03+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omh64pf/", "content": "I didn't realize she was still around." }, { "id": "t1_omh8eo4", "author": "/u/pnw-techie", "updated": "2026-05-18T13:13:21+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omh8eo4/", "content": "She retired early with millions, so she wasn't around. But she sucks at money, so she had to go back to work. Not many options open to an older woman with a long gap on her resume. It was do this or Walmart greeter.\n I just made that up, but it's probably right" }, { "id": "t1_omh88tc", "author": "/u/Hadley_333", "updated": "2026-05-18T13:12:28+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omh88tc/", "content": "don't know who that is but with those numbers she's throwing out there I"m not even going to bother to look her up." }, { "id": "t1_omhc3uu", "author": "/u/usermane22", "updated": "2026-05-18T13:32:57+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omhc3uu/", "content": "Fear mongering gets the clicks." }, { "id": "t1_omhen3u", "author": "/u/TomorrowPlenty9205", "updated": "2026-05-18T13:46:04+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omhen3u/", "content": "Not a fan, but it seems she likes the 3% rather than the 4% rule, then it is just a question of how much you spend. She also only suggests saving 15% of your income. So, if you are a household that earns $300K and you save 15%, then your burn rate is $255K and using the 3% rule, you would need $7.65M. At least her math isn't too wild. Business wise, the more people invest with her and the more money they have the more money she makes, right?" }, { "id": "t1_omhew6b", "author": "/u/Pitiful_Objective682", "updated": "2026-05-18T13:47:21+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omhew6b/", "content": "Most people don’t make more than $200k ever so idk how they think 4% of 5m will never be enough." }, { "id": "t1_omhqmkp", "author": "/u/ImportantBad4948", "updated": "2026-05-18T14:44:21+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omhqmkp/", "content": "Yeah Suze whole retirement thing where you need like 10 million to retire at 96 is a little much.\n Also, Sue’s has a nice pleasant job where she talks to people. It ain’t like she’s working in a fucking salt mine or something." }, { "id": "t1_omhvu0z", "author": "/u/NotGoodSoftwareMaker", "updated": "2026-05-18T15:08:14+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omhvu0z/", "content": "I didnt know who this woman was before but having searched her I can tell immediately that the amount she spends on her hair annually is probably more than what I spend for existing\n I wouldnt pay it too much attention" }, { "id": "t1_omhyghm", "author": "/u/Sublime-Prime", "updated": "2026-05-18T15:20:08+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omhyghm/", "content": "If she said you are doing just fine who’d you pay for her content ? Fear generates sales ." }, { "id": "t1_omi2w6v", "author": "/u/Dull_Satisfaction_21", "updated": "2026-05-18T15:40:17+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omi2w6v/", "content": "Who? I'm European so I had to Google her. She's 74 and still working, so why would her opinion on FIRE matter?" }, { "id": "t1_omicmdo", "author": "/u/draconicmonkey", "updated": "2026-05-18T16:24:46+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omicmdo/", "content": "Not saying she is right - but her argument isn’t as unhinged as it seems at first glance. She effectively is warning against retiring extremely early, which in her mind is 35 years old.\n This is because of the increased risks and “wasted” high earning years of having a 45 year retirement with a reduced social security benefit (since a person wouldn’t be working a full 35 years), and the drag that retiring early could cause on a persons compounding portfolios. Considering social security is a part of Susie’s plans with her famously advising waiting for as long as you can to start to collect, this would be a red flag for her.\n Obviously planning for 15 - 20 year retirements have less of a risk profile than 45 - 50 year retirements. Which is what I think she is trying to say when she starts pulling out huge numbers - she’s trying to say “if you’re going to accept the risk of retiring at 35, you should factor in additional risks and life events vs what you’d experience at 65. And those life events should bump your numbers up by a large factor.” With the 5 - 100 million numbers come in as a way of trying to drive the point with exaggerations.\n Given that most of us actually retire between the ages of 40 - 55, I don’t think many of her arguments are really relevant. She sort of arguing more with the lean fire group." }, { "id": "t1_omjmfza", "author": "/u/peanut_farm", "updated": "2026-05-18T20:13:48+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omjmfza/", "content": "Completely out of touch is an understatement.\n She has no idea who the hell her target audience are, idiot theory at its best." }, { "id": "t1_omh6p34", "author": "/u/BurnoutSociety", "updated": "2026-05-18T13:04:09+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omh6p34/", "content": "Because she is out of touch.." }, { "id": "t1_omh6pdz", "author": "/u/mishaindigo", "updated": "2026-05-18T13:04:12+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omh6pdz/", "content": "I stopped listening to Suze around the time she started saying credit card debt wasn’t so bad…" }, { "id": "t1_omh6zca", "author": "/u/rlnrlnrln", "updated": "2026-05-18T13:05:42+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omh6zca/", "content": "Fear based engagement. Obviously it's working since you're posting here.\n And now I'm resonding. Fuck!" }, { "id": "t1_omh7ccs", "author": "/u/Alternative-Law4626", "updated": "2026-05-18T13:07:39+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omh7ccs/", "content": "Clearly, if she is saying that, she’s speaking against evidence of perfectly successful retirements that require much less money than she’s saying.\n The only reason I can think of for this behavior is that she’s supporting the financial management and investment industry." }, { "id": "t1_omh7ert", "author": "/u/rwoooshed", "updated": "2026-05-18T13:08:00+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omh7ert/", "content": "She's not addressing normal FIRE disciples, She's a multi millionaire, as are all her friends and acquaintances. Clearly she wants to be able to continue her current spending pattern, so her advice is aimed at the mega wealthy." }, { "id": "t1_omh7goa", "author": "/u/ObjectiveBike8", "updated": "2026-05-18T13:08:17+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omh7goa/", "content": "I previously pointed out that her and other influencers are basically saying work until you die now. People were clowning on me and saying who cares what she thinks but it feels like the propaganda to increase the labor force has been stepping up a ton the last few years. It’s good to keep a pulse on propaganda since it lets you know what influential people have on their minds." }, { "id": "t1_omh7jci", "author": "/u/Potential_Salt_5780", "updated": "2026-05-18T13:08:41+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omh7jci/", "content": "Because she is out of touch and she only makes money if you keep listening to her. If you retire then you don’t need money gurus to tell you what to do.\n The entire financial industry is a scam. They brainwash you in to thinking you will never have enough money to stop working. Because how will the owners and CEOs supposed to replace productive workers? If you don’t just park your money at a bank or brokerage, how else will those guys make money? Also scare tactics draw eyeballs. The media loves to put the fear of god in you so you tune in. The more you tune in, the more shit they can market and sell to you." }, { "id": "t1_omh7tx9", "author": "/u/OnlyThePhantomKnows", "updated": "2026-05-18T13:10:14+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omh7tx9/", "content": "She is targeting the 1%ers. Top 10% of the US is only 1.8M net assets. Top 5% is less than 3M.\n The high income crowd buy her sponsors' expensive stuff and they don't gain assets. You spend your money and give it to her people." }, { "id": "t1_omhaoec", "author": "/u/Mr-Inspector-Gadget", "updated": "2026-05-18T13:25:27+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omhaoec/", "content": "It’s safer to tell people to over prepare" }, { "id": "t1_omhatae", "author": "/u/mrbaggy", "updated": "2026-05-18T13:26:09+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omhatae/", "content": "As someone who has done quite well saving and investing for retirement I will say I find myself worrying about slightly irrational but still possible things. Kids who fail to launch. Major health care expenses. Aging parents. Collapse of investments because of Trump doing something unprecedented like defaulting on debt payments. Etc." }, { "id": "t1_omhdp0y", "author": "/u/chartreuse_avocado", "updated": "2026-05-18T13:41:13+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omhdp0y/", "content": "I found her in my 20’s when she was just starting out publicly. I learned a lot from her in her early saner days but like Dave Ramsey she has jumped the shark." }, { "id": "t1_omhemf0", "author": "/u/ThereforeIV", "updated": "2026-05-18T13:45:58+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omhemf0/", "content": "Because she doesn't live reality, and hasn't for decades.\n At least Dave Ramsey has friends and employees he talks to that live in reality." }, { "id": "t1_omhns8y", "author": "/u/Puzzleheaded_Tie6917", "updated": "2026-05-18T14:31:01+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omhns8y/", "content": "It’s not necessary for there to be a conspiracy. You never know the future, so how do you know you have enough? Add in the fact she has always been rich, and she can’t conceive of the idea that less than 10-20 million can be enough.\n I rarely find myself really listening to her advice. I don’t think she’s that good of an advisor, shes often over the top conservative and since she didn’t mind working and has been rich for a long time she doesn’t see why anyone would retire early and add a little bit of risk.\n From a purely financial risk point of view, working until you die is always less risky. I just happen to want something better for myself than just leaving my kids and wife more cash after I’m dead." }, { "id": "t1_omhwgyb", "author": "/u/GWeb1920", "updated": "2026-05-18T15:11:06+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omhwgyb/", "content": "Because if you live a life style requiring a 200k income which many of the callers to her show do then that’s how much you need.\n I’d argue she is a promoter of FIRE. She just has a very conservative SWR." }, { "id": "t1_omhzml7", "author": "/u/No-Phrase2043", "updated": "2026-05-18T15:25:27+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omhzml7/", "content": "It appears she is insighting fear to drive viewer engagement. That said, $5M is not what it used to be.\n Depending upon projected expenses, inflationary assumptions, and duration of retirement, a $5M target is becoming more of a reality than it once was." }, { "id": "t1_omi8vpv", "author": "/u/grantnlee", "updated": "2026-05-18T16:07:30+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omi8vpv/", "content": "Agreed. Fear sells. She's working it." }, { "id": "t1_omi3ldy", "author": "/u/Cautious_Explorer_33", "updated": "2026-05-18T15:43:25+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omi3ldy/", "content": "Because she is a moron." }, { "id": "t1_omiaoai", "author": "/u/LavishnessBig8906", "updated": "2026-05-18T16:15:46+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omiaoai/", "content": "I don’t think there’s necessarily some conspiracy behind it. A lot of mainstream finance personalities optimize for “never run out of money under almost any scenario,” not “maximize freedom early.”\n From that perspective, telling millions of average Americans they can retire at 40 with a lean portfolio is risky advice because most people:\n\n- underestimate healthcare costs,\n- overestimate investment discipline,\n- panic sell during downturns,\n- and quietly increase lifestyle spending over time. So the advice becomes ultra conservative to protect the lowest common denominator.\n Also worth remembering Suze Orman built her brand talking to broad TV audiences, not highly optimized FIRE spreadsheet people who track withdrawal rates for fun. Saying “you probably need more than you think” is safer reputationally than telling someone they’re good with $1.2m and then watching a recession hit 5 years later." }, { "id": "t1_omikiky", "author": "/u/LizzyPanhandle", "updated": "2026-05-18T17:00:27+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omikiky/", "content": "She has been my driving force for having my finances together and I've never paid her a dime. I'm down with all she has to say about this." }, { "id": "t1_omikp32", "author": "/u/Suchboss1136", "updated": "2026-05-18T17:01:15+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omikp32/", "content": "When did she say the latter?\n And for the average american or canadian (or whoever is listening in a western nation really) the retirement number is not that far off of $5mill in total assets. Now I don’t agree with her number, assuming she said it, but it’s not completely wrong either.\n Think about it, if you operate on the 4% withdrawal rule, to live on $100k annually, you’d need $2.5 million. But that doesn’t cut it in some major metropolitan areas. So if you want to live on $200k you’d need $5mill. And that’s @ 4% which is not even as ideal as targeting 3% which would in turn increase the numbers a bit.\n That said, SS, pensions, inheritances, etc … would decrease the need for savings or retirement assets" }, { "id": "t1_omji4kn", "author": "/u/DontEvenWithMe1", "updated": "2026-05-18T19:53:50+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omji4kn/", "content": "Suze Orman is beyond wealthy and completely out of touch with reality. For HER, those numbers are what SHE needs for HER lifestyle. For the rest of us, yeah, not so much. She lives, or used to, in a mansion on the water in Fort Lauderdale and had a boat that cost over $1million, so she’s absolutely clueless about “everyday people”. Tune her out and you’ll be better off." }, { "id": "t1_omm8het", "author": "/u/One_more_username", "updated": "2026-05-19T05:13:01+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omm8het/", "content": "Who is Susie Orman and who cares about what she thinks? It is a simple math problem." }, { "id": "t1_omm8i35", "author": "/u/ScarLupi", "updated": "2026-05-19T05:13:10+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omm8i35/", "content": "I don’t know or care who Susie Orman is, but I’m aiming for 5M minimum and 10M target. That’s a stress free financial life. Wish I had it now…" }, { "id": "t1_omnn4yo", "author": "/u/Traveller_2099", "updated": "2026-05-19T12:06:01+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omnn4yo/", "content": "Dave Ramsey is more realistic for middle class retirees. Suzy is a rich brat." }, { "id": "t1_omo8mqa", "author": "/u/DataZigZager", "updated": "2026-05-19T14:01:24+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omo8mqa/", "content": "I watched a few videos featuring very wealthy people who said you never need more than 30k/month because spending that much money is a full-time job. And sometimes, you want to stay home, eat a home-cooked meal, and chill." }, { "id": "t1_omoet0c", "author": "/u/Sensitive_Coconut339", "updated": "2026-05-19T14:30:52+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omoet0c/", "content": "She is coming from a place of making sure people have absolute guaranteed financial safety. For 99.5% of people, her advice makes sense -work while you still can, Roth accounts, take SS as late as possible. Her audience is not as financially literate or optimized as the FIRE community. I've taken a lot of good tips from her - her advice on FIRE isn't one of them" }, { "id": "t1_omqm5to", "author": "/u/Confident_Insect_616", "updated": "2026-05-19T20:26:59+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omqm5to/", "content": "I feel like a lot of my retirement prep is establishing a life that doesn't require much money to maintain.\n I don't think she has those priorities.\n If I had 2 mil I would tap out. (but I get a disability check to round out my CoL)" }, { "id": "t1_omh6ilv", "author": "/u/rh681", "updated": "2026-05-18T13:03:10+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omh6ilv/", "content": "Most people don't pay attention to her." }, { "id": "t1_omh6zw7", "author": "/u/ApeTeam1906", "updated": "2026-05-18T13:05:47+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omh6zw7/", "content": "Don't know, don't care" }, { "id": "t1_omh7ojq", "author": "/u/OverlordBluebook", "updated": "2026-05-18T13:09:27+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omh7ojq/", "content": "If you know enough people that retire your mostly on a fixed budget. I know a few that had to go back to work since crap happens with your adults kids and grandkids even. Crap meaning stuff that could get very expensive. Could be accident/disability, cancer, you name it. I think she just wants you to have whatever you think you need then add a good chunk over that for multiple emergencies and that could be long term." }, { "id": "t1_omh8c0z", "author": "/u/Hot_Second7559", "updated": "2026-05-18T13:12:56+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omh8c0z/", "content": "All financial voices take a specified POV. Orman is a pro-consumerist POV that just isn’t compatible with FIRE." }, { "id": "t1_omh9pf5", "author": "/u/HopDropNRoll", "updated": "2026-05-18T13:20:16+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omh9pf5/", "content": "I think most of these mainstream gurus are not talking to us. They’re talking to people who need to get the basics down, or build some discipline. And to be fair, I think they serve that purpose but if you have your financial shit together it all feels cartoonish." }, { "id": "t1_omha3uj", "author": "/u/R_Ulysses_Swanson", "updated": "2026-05-18T13:22:25+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omha3uj/", "content": "Orman, and Ramsay, and a lot of the others, have largely become out of touch, cantankerous, and caricatures of themselves.\n They are, or were, good starting points for many, many people. But personal finance and best practices are pretty boring and simple. You can't sell the same thing over and over and over again, so you need to come up with new stuff to yell loudly about." }, { "id": "t1_omhadd3", "author": "/u/liulide", "updated": "2026-05-18T13:23:50+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omhadd3/", "content": "In 2007, she was telling everyone to buy a second home. Ten years ago, she was telling everyone to buy long term care insurance.\n I wouldn't touch her advice with a 10-foot pole." }, { "id": "t1_omhd44n", "author": "/u/SBNShovelSlayer", "updated": "2026-05-18T13:38:11+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omhd44n/", "content": "It really is incredible how someone can be so consistently wrong, and yet still be treated as an "expert"." }, { "id": "t1_omhbbv2", "author": "/u/brianmcg321", "updated": "2026-05-18T13:28:51+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omhbbv2/", "content": "She doesn’t say that for people at regular retirement age." }, { "id": "t1_omhc7af", "author": "/u/BarefootMarauder", "updated": "2026-05-18T13:33:27+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omhc7af/", "content": "Suze is an idiot and a hypocrite." }, { "id": "t1_omhcv96", "author": "/u/taracel", "updated": "2026-05-18T13:36:55+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omhcv96/", "content": "Simple - So she can shill her money FUD to you to line her pockets. Hopefully she’ll use some of that money for therapy" }, { "id": "t1_omhdcli", "author": "/u/Past-Option2702", "updated": "2026-05-18T13:39:25+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omhdcli/", "content": "To comfortably retire young in many parts of USA you kinda do need 5M or more.\n She’s not wrong.\n That said, many parts of USA can work since it’s not hard to live a frugal/modest lifestyle. You probably still want 3M or more, though." }, { "id": "t1_omhhbhp", "author": "/u/ThrowawayLDS_7gen", "updated": "2026-05-18T13:59:34+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omhhbhp/", "content": "She makes money to keep people locked in." }, { "id": "t1_omhhqvd", "author": "/u/Zestyclose-Tart6745", "updated": "2026-05-18T14:01:42+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omhhqvd/", "content": "She’s a dummy. Anyone could live a very comfortable life on 5m invested." }, { "id": "t1_omhjb9d", "author": "/u/bmudtiddersdom-42069", "updated": "2026-05-18T14:09:30+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omhjb9d/", "content": "It’s wild how bad people are with money though. Especially if you give them enough. So many people would burn through 5 mill so fast it’d make your head spin." }, { "id": "t1_omhl7vj", "author": "/u/Zestyclose-Tart6745", "updated": "2026-05-18T14:18:46+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omhl7vj/", "content": "Sure. Lots of people are idiots. But if your goal is a simpler more engaging life . 5m is plenty" }, { "id": "t1_omhjv9b", "author": "/u/Primary_Excuse_7183", "updated": "2026-05-18T14:12:14+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omhjv9b/", "content": "Selling you her services to get those 10-100M while running yourself into the ground before you realize it’s likely not going to happen. and she pocketed your money already." }, { "id": "t1_omhl5zs", "author": "/u/SnooHedgehogs6553", "updated": "2026-05-18T14:18:32+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omhl5zs/", "content": "She’s Paranoid about health care and long term care expenses.\n Wait - she might be right!!" }, { "id": "t1_omhmnod", "author": "/u/NecessaryEmployer488", "updated": "2026-05-18T14:25:41+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omhmnod/", "content": "I think Susie is really talking about overall capability of taking care of all aspects in your life including insuring your kids and parents, you can also step in and help. Maybe she is confusing Financially Free with Financial Independence." }, { "id": "t1_omhnufw", "author": "/u/dissentmemo", "updated": "2026-05-18T14:31:18+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omhnufw/", "content": "She's a grifter who wants to sell you something." }, { "id": "t1_omhp74t", "author": "/u/HighOnLife", "updated": "2026-05-18T14:37:42+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omhp74t/", "content": "Suzie Orman is a grifter and a fraud.\n https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GkePKT-Y7IQ" }, { "id": "t1_omhpj7d", "author": "/u/ziggy-tiggy-bagel", "updated": "2026-05-18T14:39:16+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omhpj7d/", "content": "Because if you aren't listening to her or buying her books, she can't make any money" }, { "id": "t1_omhpvab", "author": "/u/JohnnySpot2000", "updated": "2026-05-18T14:40:50+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omhpvab/", "content": "Susie Orman is the reason I’m on the FIRE path today. Her frugality mindset and books like Young, Fabulous, and Broke made a massive impact. I believe the reasons she says $5m-$10m now is because of her upper middle class lifestyle bias, and her fears that health insurance and healthcare may become even less subsidized and more expensive, forcing a 45-year-old retiree to bridge multiple years paying something like $100,000+ per year in medical costs." }, { "id": "t1_omhpyqg", "author": "/u/skunimatrix", "updated": "2026-05-18T14:41:16+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omhpyqg/", "content": "If you are wanting to retire to NYC or LA or SF Bay Area...yeah you probably need $5M. At $3.5M investments were bringing in enough income to meet household expenses. At $5M it covers everything plus health insurance if we weren't traveling all the time. My wife is at the peak of the mountain of her career as GC and company she works for is either going to sell again or IPO in the next 3 years. Once that happens she'll join me building airplanes to sell for fun and sometimes profit." }, { "id": "t1_omhq3f8", "author": "/u/Bearsbanker", "updated": "2026-05-18T14:41:54+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omhq3f8/", "content": "Maybe that's the amount needed for her lifestyle. Maybe she's trying to sell something. I don't listen to "experts" about my money. I read and research on my own and make my own decisions." }, { "id": "t1_omhqnes", "author": "/u/Electrochemist_2025", "updated": "2026-05-18T14:44:28+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omhqnes/", "content": "She also says you should keep working till 70 to maximize your social security. She’s part of the system.\n Her advice is usually good for folks maxing out credit cards and are in deep debt and not much else." }, { "id": "t1_omhqszz", "author": "/u/RoiCoupeCloue", "updated": "2026-05-18T14:45:11+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omhqszz/", "content": "She was great to listen to back in 2005,2006,2007, I used to watch her on PBS. Somewhere she went haywire, the stuff she says now is so crazy and out of touch, I saw her mention with a straight face as well you need at least 10 million to retire." }, { "id": "t1_omhtlm4", "author": "/u/Rastabahn", "updated": "2026-05-18T14:57:57+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omhtlm4/", "content": "Not a bot. Just a guy that lost his job and is learning what it actually means to not have a W-2:\n NW 2.75MM* No debt No job Law degree. Last job was 230K salary; 330K in Purchase, NY (VHCOL) Got Cancer Lost job 2 year gap is growing.\n *2MM Traditional; 300K Roth (no basis); 450K Brokerage (50/50 basis)\n So about that whole no W-2 thing- it basically makes that NW meaningless. 2.3 is locked until I’m 59.5. 450K for the next 12 years.\n Not looking for advice. I’m familiar with SEPPs and Cliffs, Conversions and ladders. But the thing you can’t fight with optimization: once that job stops, you have two choices- live under the ACA subsidies or over them. Under makes your healthcare arguably affordable, even if everything is basically just catastrophic care. Over means over $1000/mo in HC for a husband and wife, 48 and 38 with no kids. That’s before you see a doctor or take a pill.\n Under means spending under 84K this year and 87K next. Make a dollar over- lose subsidies. So making 90K MAGI under the ACA is about the single dumbest financial decision a couple could make in 2027. Instead, we’re taking cap gains and blowing the cliff intentionally to fill the 24% bracket instead. But that’s a 2026 thing, not a life strategy\n Tl;dr- not that I’m done- planning on a $2.5Million retirement for a couple should throw off 100K forever. 1000 different opinions on that, but for a 50+ potential lifespan, assuming higher that 4% is stupid. Mine is just “aggressive”.\n Now back to that that 100K/yr (remember, that spends like 2 people each making $25/hr; and also remember you have “millions” in the bank. It is a humbling feeling, especially when the job loss wasn’t your choice). Here’s what happens\n No employers healthcare = ACA marketplace. Crappy plans that are neither subsidized by your employer nor the State or Federal Government. So your unsubsidized healthcare just shot up to $15K/yr before you see a doc or take a pill. Taxes are about 17-26% effective, depending on your state. So even taking the sunniest possible view there: we’re already down 32% of that 100 and we’re homeless. Rent in the LCOL where we are moving (63303) has a 1br leasing for 2K. That doesn’t count move in fees, deposits, applications, actual moving… that’s just the “carrying cost” once you’re fully moved in. Another 24% of your budget gone, but you don’t have heat or A/C. Utilities $160 to 200=2%/year. Now you’re warm- 2%’s no biggie, but they add up. After accounting for 58% of our budget, a few things we have not done: eaten; clothed ourselves; had a car; paid for gas; paid for transportation due to not having car or gas; had internet; paid a cell phone bill; had a phone at all- all of those categories are just asking for a ”you could always [use the library];” that’s not the point. The point is, with a $100K “salary” consisting of a reasonable 4% draw on, again, the millions that you are saying should be enough (and I agree, they should be- accounting for not even food- you each have 21K for everything else. That $500 deductible for that scratch? Just became 4% of your annual food budget- not a minor annoyance.\n Is it doable, sure. Lots of people live on under $100,000/yr. But not couples. That median and mean are both over $100K now. What Suzy is saying is if you want to move to Missouri and clip coupons and worry about making rent in retirement- go for it. Happy to stary a support group.\n But if you want to enjoy your retirement without a healthy dose of anti-depressants… keep that w-2 and its benefits as long as you can. That’s essentially what “5-10 Million” means.\n BS Finance ‘99 JD ‘04\n Standard disclaimer: not a sermon- a legitimate, “hey- that’s me” answer.\n As someone who was let go from his iob for getting Cancer- the reason Suzy Orman says not to retire with less that $5 Million os don’t retire with less than 5 Million. And if you only get to 4- retire. But as a “multi-millionaire”, who was made to- I wouldn’t expect that old 4% rule to print you $100,000 that you can use anymore unless you have no gain, all basis, and can pay yourself without jacking up MAGI. But that’s still not “living” on 100K- it’s living on a higher draw and manipulating basis withdrawals to stay under the cap.\n That was a lot. All sincere. Hope it helps someone. But I expect what it will actually draw is “anyone who can’t live on 400% if the FPL is just spoiled. I just showed above why that’s not true. The people who say it is aren’t “spending” under the cliff- they are “claiming” under it." }, { "id": "t1_omhtnb1", "author": "/u/PracticalQuestion145", "updated": "2026-05-18T14:58:10+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omhtnb1/", "content": "It’s a math problem. Why would we care what she thinks about it?" }, { "id": "t1_omhtvae", "author": "/u/Witty-Stock-4913", "updated": "2026-05-18T14:59:10+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omhtvae/", "content": "Because of this: https://www.reddit.com/r/MoneyDiariesACTIVE/s/OFXoT7HxCR\n Markets change, people really underestimate how safe their investments are, things get more expensive, safety nets stop existing, medical stuff happens, etc." }, { "id": "t1_omhwl9u", "author": "/u/uncoolkidsclub", "updated": "2026-05-18T15:11:40+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omhwl9u/", "content": "She calculates based off her experience, just like everyone here does. Retirement for her is Golf memberships, traveling from Bahamas to Florida, time on the 33 foot Boston Whaler, and the ability to charter "The Approved II" for larger boat parties.\n Even if she thinks FIRE people would step down a little to retire early, her idea of retirement isn't spending sub $50k a year, renting seadoo's once a year for the lake in town and staying home 360 days a year." }, { "id": "t1_omhycg4", "author": "/u/Dangerous_End9472", "updated": "2026-05-18T15:19:37+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omhycg4/", "content": "I watched one of her segments and it was barely any financial advice at all.\n Ew" }, { "id": "t1_omi0uei", "author": "/u/AcrobaticHyena6624", "updated": "2026-05-18T15:30:58+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omi0uei/", "content": "I don't know who she is and don't want to.\n But it does sound like the answer is in your question: Because you're talking about her." }, { "id": "t1_omi7ac0", "author": "/u/cat_in_a_bday_hat", "updated": "2026-05-18T16:00:05+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omi7ac0/", "content": "susie orman is unserious" }, { "id": "t1_omi7fhr", "author": "/u/CoffeeIsForEveryone", "updated": "2026-05-18T16:00:44+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omi7fhr/", "content": "I mean I could go straight treasury bonds with $10m and live off of the interest and selling off the bonds and never run out of money if I retired at like 50" }, { "id": "t1_omicfxl", "author": "/u/HonestOtterTravel", "updated": "2026-05-18T16:23:56+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omicfxl/", "content": "She is 74 years old and still working despite having incredible resources. Probably more of a coping mechanism to justify her own decisions than actual financial advice." }, { "id": "t1_omikdfn", "author": "/u/Comfortable-Spell-75", "updated": "2026-05-18T16:59:49+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omikdfn/", "content": "She’s part of the elite that have a very specific agenda." }, { "id": "t1_ominanu", "author": "/u/TheSweeetness", "updated": "2026-05-18T17:12:57+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/ominanu/", "content": "I didn’t see the link you’re referring to, but are you sure she said that, or was it taken out of context? Like was she taking to someone with super high income that currently spends $350k per year and wants to maintain that after retirement? If she meant the average person, yeah, that’s bananas…" }, { "id": "t1_omj0ime", "author": "/u/Available-Ad-5670", "updated": "2026-05-18T18:25:09+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omj0ime/", "content": "It’s on one of the comments. Listen to it" }, { "id": "t1_omio5km", "author": "/u/tnerb208", "updated": "2026-05-18T17:16:49+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omio5km/", "content": "Though i agree with some things she says, i feel she has become out of touch" }, { "id": "t1_omisv69", "author": "/u/temerairevm", "updated": "2026-05-18T17:39:51+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omisv69/", "content": "(I say this as a solidly middle aged person myself.) At some point more than a few years ago Susie Orman transitioned from giving actual advice to giving the sort of “tough love” talking points that a certain already retired (and not early) demographic eats up. It’s personal finance porn, not real." }, { "id": "t1_omj02co", "author": "/u/pdoherty972", "updated": "2026-05-18T18:22:44+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omj02co/", "content": "She is out of touch.\n $80K in year 1 of a 4% SWR retirement is close to $110-$120K equivalent of labor income since you have no FICA taxes, no work-related expenses, and no heavy saving for retirement coming out of it." }, { "id": "t1_omlb2f7", "author": "/u/Available-Ad-5670", "updated": "2026-05-19T01:41:11+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omlb2f7/", "content": "i just did this, you're correct about fica taxes, but with a mix of pre tax and post tax, 80k is more like 90k labor income. (taxes are substantially less in retirement). or put another way since the 80k is what most people view as the swr, 80k withdrawal is net somewhere around 70k." }, { "id": "t1_omlrnxj", "author": "/u/pdoherty972", "updated": "2026-05-19T03:17:18+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omlrnxj/", "content": "Not sure how you'd think $80K of retirement withdrawals is only $90K of labor income. The FICA savings is over 7% by itself. Then remove 15-25% of retirement savings (or more) that most everyone in here is doing the entire time they're working. Plus wardrobe, second car expenses, parking, tolls, etc from not working any more." }, { "id": "t1_omm9qiy", "author": "/u/Available-Ad-5670", "updated": "2026-05-19T05:23:06+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omm9qiy/", "content": "i'm talking about the gross to net of post retirement taxes (not counting work commute expenses).\n I'm saying, when you're in retirement, say 40% of your income is post tax account, 30% SS, and 30% pretax (401k accounts), only your 401k gets taxed and some of your ss, and no fica taxes.\n Therefore when you withdrawal 80k from your accounts, your net tax rate is only 7-8% in no state tax states, and 12% or so in states with state tax. Its much lower than when you are working." }, { "id": "t1_omj4kka", "author": "/u/strivingforfi", "updated": "2026-05-18T18:45:38+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omj4kka/", "content": "I kind of agree with her based on what you said… living off of $80k in today’s dollars is probably fine for most people. You would need around $2M using a 4% withdrawal rate. 20-30 years from now, with inflation, you’ll probably need $160k per year to live off of, which means you’ll need around $4M in retirement." }, { "id": "t1_omjjccs", "author": "/u/BikesOrBeans", "updated": "2026-05-18T19:59:27+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omjjccs/", "content": "She's as out of touch as Dave Ramsey." }, { "id": "t1_omjk3kg", "author": "/u/LonesomeBulldog", "updated": "2026-05-18T20:02:57+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omjk3kg/", "content": "When my wife and I fire in 3 years, we will only have a $2K house payment for debt. Our fire income will be $220K. My wife’s pension covers health insurance for both of us. When SS hits, we will get another $70K+ per year. I’d be straight up embarrassed if we can’t have a nice lifestyle." }, { "id": "t1_omjq8hq", "author": "/u/ku_78", "updated": "2026-05-18T20:30:58+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omjq8hq/", "content": "Doesn’t she factor in cost to put up aging parents into the highest level care facilities? She spent crazy money taking care of her mom, because she has crazy money to spend." }, { "id": "t1_omjtxde", "author": "/u/ColorMonochrome", "updated": "2026-05-18T20:47:58+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omjtxde/", "content": "There are a lot of interesting comments with various links. One study published by medium.com which claims FIRE retirees return to work at a rate of 80% or more actually shows instead that those people simply didn’t do the real math prior to retirement and their expenses were higher than expected.\n The example they used was a couple who underestimated health insurance costs, well that’s misleading because it’s easy to understand exactly what your health insurance is going to cost prior to retirement simply by pricing out private health insurance. The author then went on to state they spent more money of travel and hobbies. Well those were all CHOICES. The problem wasn’t FIRE it was the people cited being stupid.\n I too listened to the podcast with Orman. She is a clown, but if you cut through her hysterical claims her advice is solid. No, you don’t need $6 million to retire on, yes you can retire on $1.5 million or even less at the age of 35. The key is you have to be disciplined, you cannot do what the clown medium.com reporter wrote about. You cannot retire on $1.5 million expecting to spend $60,000/year and then spend $80,000/year instead. Dur, we all know that.\n So yeah, Orman is a ridiculous clown for the most part, but the crux of her advice is correct. FIRE requires discipline and in some cases sacrifice. You cannot overspend, ever, because once you begin to draw down basis you create a vicious cycle which will force you back to work." }, { "id": "t1_omkdh2v", "author": "/u/Chulbiski", "updated": "2026-05-18T22:27:54+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omkdh2v/", "content": "she is way out of touch with normal people... probably used to an insane amount of spend. I've been aware of her for years and did some research and came to the conclusion that she is just another grifter" }, { "id": "t1_omkg39l", "author": "/u/PurpleSloth12358", "updated": "2026-05-18T22:42:57+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omkg39l/", "content": "A paid off house, 500K retrement account, social security, and you'll be able to enjoy a long retirement." }, { "id": "t1_omkgysr", "author": "/u/theotisfinklestein", "updated": "2026-05-18T22:48:00+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omkgysr/", "content": "Taking advice from Suze Orman on finances is like taking acting lessons from Lassie." }, { "id": "t1_oml0wrq", "author": "", "updated": "2026-05-19T00:43:20+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/oml0wrq/", "content": "If I retire with 1.2 - 1.5 mil which is the plan if all goes well, I'll have more money in retirement then I have now and will live a normal life. Suzy can go F herself." }, { "id": "t1_omll133", "author": "/u/potificate", "updated": "2026-05-19T02:38:05+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omll133/", "content": "I suppose that’s because there are many different varieties of FIRE. Who wouldn’t want to fat fire?" }, { "id": "t1_omloc2r", "author": "/u/DimSumDesire", "updated": "2026-05-19T02:57:29+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omloc2r/", "content": "I’m not out of touch with reality and 80k post taxes would be hard to live on where I live. Not everyone is about being poor and super frugal, and you don’t know the future of the markets or how old you’ll live too." }, { "id": "t1_omma0bo", "author": "/u/Available-Ad-5670", "updated": "2026-05-19T05:25:20+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omma0bo/", "content": "sure, some people need more than 80k to live on, but to say that everyone will need to spend 350-400k (Spend not make) in retirement is just sheer lunancy.\n her audience is everyone, not just vhcol people" }, { "id": "t1_omm3hab", "author": "/u/B111yboy", "updated": "2026-05-19T04:34:32+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omm3hab/", "content": "3.5-5M with no mortgage seems like the right number for me. 10M is working till 70 and saving like crazy and living like I’m broke from 60-70 and I’m not doing that, I want to live life while I can walk and enjoy traveling. I’ll probably go until 60-62 start traveling more, then take SS at 63.\n My friend’s mom said retire as early as possible and take the SS. I’m 81 and I’m in pretty good shape but I can’t do what I did at 62. She barely travels unless it’s with her kids and usually just sits and plays games and gambles, she hates walking tours as she says everything hurts after walking for 2-3 hours the next day. So I’m taking her advice on top of my dad had a stroke at 63 and was still working at the time. So I want to enjoy it before it too late!" }, { "id": "t1_omm3zcd", "author": "/u/Powerful-Bridge-1472", "updated": "2026-05-19T04:38:14+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omm3zcd/", "content": "Don’t forget you get Social Security which for most people is about 35,000" }, { "id": "t1_ommsjnt", "author": "/u/troublesomefaux", "updated": "2026-05-19T08:05:05+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/ommsjnt/", "content": "We are the only people I know who are getting a raise when we turn 65." }, { "id": "t1_ommygla", "author": "/u/7urz", "updated": "2026-05-19T08:59:56+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/ommygla/", "content": "Almost everyone has to live with way less than 80k after taxes, so it's definitely possible." }, { "id": "t1_omnmtqk", "author": "/u/LivinghighinColorado", "updated": "2026-05-19T12:04:10+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omnmtqk/", "content": "She can't fathom how many of us can live off $60k/year and be happy." }, { "id": "t1_omnn3fo", "author": "/u/lynchmob2829", "updated": "2026-05-19T12:05:45+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omnn3fo/", "content": "Your spending dictates how much you need in retirement. And to some degree the funding for that spending matter. Since retiring in 2019, we have never spent more than $65k after taxes. The caveat is that our big trips, new cars, and upgrades to our home have been paid for with funds from our Roth accounts.\n We have retired friends with homes valued at close to $2M who drive expensive SUVs and take 2 big trips a year that live on $110K after taxes.\n Until Suzy provides more details on why 80k is not enough, her statement lacks validity." }, { "id": "t1_omntckw", "author": "/u/Old_Still3321", "updated": "2026-05-19T12:42:09+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omntckw/", "content": "She doesn't understand what things really cost." }, { "id": "t1_omoyxes", "author": "/u/Sad-Maize-6625", "updated": "2026-05-19T16:02:07+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omoyxes/", "content": "Some people can’t see a lifestyle too far removed than theirs." }, { "id": "t1_ompe1l6", "author": "/u/Nayyr", "updated": "2026-05-19T17:10:14+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/ompe1l6/", "content": "No way am I waiting until 5mill to retire. If I have no student loans, no kids in school, etc. why in the world do I need 200k or more a year?" }, { "id": "t1_ompqtjc", "author": "/u/play_hard_outside", "updated": "2026-05-19T18:05:49+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/ompqtjc/", "content": "6M is good for like 140k after taxes lol.\n 5M to 10M is accessible to high-earning working professionals. 20-100M is basically not." }, { "id": "t1_omsd6dw", "author": "/u/Available-Ad-5670", "updated": "2026-05-20T02:02:20+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omsd6dw/", "content": "Not true, your tax rate in retirement drops significantly, no fica, and depending on whether you plan your withdrawals smartly, and how much post tax accounts, 6m can mean $220k spend a year" }, { "id": "t1_omsobj5", "author": "/u/play_hard_outside", "updated": "2026-05-20T03:06:56+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omsobj5/", "content": "Aren't we talking about retiring early? I mean, that's literally the E in FIRE.\n Unless you're planning on retiring at 60 or older, drawing 4% is unsuitably likely to exhaust your portfolio before you are dead.\n 4% SWR considers "success" to be anything better than full capital exhaustion over thirty years. If you have a single dollar in your account after the thirty year period, you are considered a success. Under this definition, 4% achieves "success" 95% of the time.\n 5% of the time, you run out of money before thirty years. About a third of the time, you end up with less than you started with after thirty years, adjusted for inflation.\n If you want to retire early, you should not be drawing 4%." }, { "id": "t1_omqtfya", "author": "/u/eeeeeelinor", "updated": "2026-05-19T20:59:11+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omqtfya/", "content": "The real mystery is why this got almost 500 responses, lol.\n The amount you need will really depend on age. We will need 5+MM to continue to live where we live in retirement, and we don't want to move.\n My kid, who is 39.5 years younger than I am, will need 20MM to retire in the same place at the same age, under normal inflation conditions.\n This is one of the reasons I think it's stupid to base projections on today's numbers--it's good for everyone to get used to those big numbers because that's what they'll need in future dollars. I know a lot of old people who can't adjust and still firmly believe a slice of pizza and a subway ride should each cost $1. They thought they planned well but they didn't plan for 2026." }, { "id": "t1_omrecql", "author": "/u/theBeardedAlaskan", "updated": "2026-05-19T22:44:35+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omrecql/", "content": "If her advice were true, then only 0.1% of 1% of people could ever retire and we all can see clearly that isn’t true.\n I like the 5m net worth figure goal for being able to live a relatively comfortable lifestyle with decent amount of traveling, but definitely don’t NEED that.\n Hardly anyone lives on 350-400k even while working so to say this is needed is completely laughable and divorced from any sense of reality. She needs to go touch some grass and interact with the common plebeians making it work on just 20-30k/year." }, { "id": "t1_omrl093", "author": "/u/sweetie_serenity69", "updated": "2026-05-19T23:21:14+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omrl093/", "content": "She's just disconnected. That's all\n In college, my mentor/prof was friends with her. He brought her in for class talks regularly\n Very disconnected person" }, { "id": "t1_on8azmg", "author": "/u/Top-Car7268", "updated": "2026-05-22T11:52:20+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/on8azmg/", "content": "Because then once peeps hit 5M they’d stop tuning into her. How will she make her 100’s of millions then?" }, { "id": "t1_omh6s8u", "author": "/u/BaselineUnknown", "updated": "2026-05-18T13:04:38+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omh6s8u/", "content": "You won’t buy people’s stuff if they say you’re doing a good job and don’t need it." }, { "id": "t1_omh71i8", "author": "/u/newwriter365", "updated": "2026-05-18T13:06:02+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omh71i8/", "content": "Isn’t she 100% invested in treasury bonds?" }, { "id": "t1_omhb0er", "author": "/u/Revelate_", "updated": "2026-05-18T13:27:11+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omhb0er/", "content": "At 5% now?\n I’m starting to think about that too haha.\n To be clear Orman has always been a joke to me, but if interest rates on the 30 year go higher, well…" }, { "id": "t1_omhidnw", "author": "/u/newwriter365", "updated": "2026-05-18T14:04:52+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omhidnw/", "content": "Map it against the S&P for the past twenty years." }, { "id": "t1_omhpz18", "author": "/u/Revelate_", "updated": "2026-05-18T14:41:19+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omhpz18/", "content": "Oh I’m aware, but if we get a guaranteed rate that’s high enough?\n Well short of runaway inflation it’d be fine heh. Then again runaway inflation potential…" }, { "id": "t1_omh7zqi", "author": "/u/CenlaLowell", "updated": "2026-05-18T13:11:06+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omh7zqi/", "content": "Keep people producing in America until death" }, { "id": "t1_omh81ja", "author": "/u/Extreme_Bit_1135", "updated": "2026-05-18T13:11:22+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omh81ja/", "content": "Who cares?" }, { "id": "t1_omh9ifw", "author": "/u/twilit_caress", "updated": "2026-05-18T13:19:14+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omh9ifw/", "content": "She sells fear to keep you watching, ignore her numbers" }, { "id": "t1_omhayhw", "author": "/u/Impressive_Job8321", "updated": "2026-05-18T13:26:55+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omhayhw/", "content": "If the path to enlightenment is straightforward and easy, nobody would pay attention to what the guide has to say (and sell)." }, { "id": "t1_omhdj74", "author": "/u/Future_Measurement42", "updated": "2026-05-18T13:40:22+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omhdj74/", "content": "Well there’s a ton of people on here saving to 5-10 million so it doesn’t seem that off." }, { "id": "t1_omhdtkr", "author": "/u/Lonely-Clerk-2478", "updated": "2026-05-18T13:41:52+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omhdtkr/", "content": "She has to create panic to attract attention but her points about health care aren’t terrible. Also she’s a boomer and I think she’s just angry that not everyone shares her desire to die at their desks. 10 years ago she was doling out advice to younger people/those starting out. Shes changed her focus to people with more money (because they have money to buy her stuff)\n The 2030 as AI tipping point thing seems to be picking up steam in some circles: 2008-style collapse (if not worse) paired with VERY significantly high levels of unemployment. A friend owns a chain of locations in The franchise world and they had a conference where some economist spouted something similar to what Suze is saying." }, { "id": "t1_omhehk7", "author": "/u/zeroabe", "updated": "2026-05-18T13:45:17+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omhehk7/", "content": "I have no idea who she is but she sounds like an idiot if that’s what she says?" }, { "id": "t1_omheig5", "author": "/u/DeadFacesInMyPocket", "updated": "2026-05-18T13:45:24+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omheig5/", "content": "She sounds like an idiot and is wouldn't listen to snything she says" }, { "id": "t1_omhic0l", "author": "/u/DueAuthor6113", "updated": "2026-05-18T14:04:38+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omhic0l/", "content": "At one time her $ was in municipal bonds. So much for sound advice!!" }, { "id": "t1_omhioiv", "author": "/u/IntolerantModerate", "updated": "2026-05-18T14:06:22+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omhioiv/", "content": "If you think about $5mm drawing interest. Just sitting in cash, you'd be able to spend $100k a year for 50 years. Now to save that $5mm in the first place you probably spent less than $100k a year, so it will actually last you probably 100 years counting interest.\n And that is a do nothing scenario. You leave it in the market and in 20 years that $5MM is closer to $15 mm" }, { "id": "t1_omhjaie", "author": "/u/deathdealer351", "updated": "2026-05-18T14:09:24+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omhjaie/", "content": "The average person does not need 20m+.. 10m you can retire and still grow your account, and your children can retire also. At 5m you can retire and slowly grow your account, but your kids will probably not be able to come along for the ride..\n Now if you want to live in Manhattan you need more.. But there are plenty of places around the USA that you can live a very comfortable life with 5m.\n The trick is to keep you a slave by not showing you your real number... If people knew oh between 500k and 1m in my account.. I'm basically free, sure you may have to push carts at Costco for insurance or go answer phones at the hospital.. It changes the dynamic. But I can drive my 10 year old jap pos car and go live a happy life.. I don't get to keep you a slave..." }, { "id": "t1_omhjkf6", "author": "/u/Due_Barber_525", "updated": "2026-05-18T14:10:46+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omhjkf6/", "content": "Because if she admits you can retire with much less and much sooner, people wouldn’t send her a lot of money to tell them they need more and more." }, { "id": "t1_omhkcum", "author": "/u/paratethys", "updated": "2026-05-18T14:14:37+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omhkcum/", "content": "Not everyone can do math." }, { "id": "t1_omhm0c4", "author": "/u/Apart-Disaster-3085", "updated": "2026-05-18T14:22:34+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omhm0c4/", "content": "5 to 10 isn't far off if you are in your 30s accounting for inflation and want some level of comfort.\n My target is $8M as a 43 year old who wants to afford some hobbies like travel and afford the utlities and insurance on my current house. Even a lowish inflation will double the cost of everything by the time I am in my 60s.\n So 20 M is just someone twice as expensive as myself. 100M would be pretty rich though. I dont watch her anymore, but I credit her for teaching so much in my younger days. Now I am curious if she ever really says 100M..." }, { "id": "t1_omhnbsh", "author": "/u/SpecialistKoala9765", "updated": "2026-05-18T14:28:52+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omhnbsh/", "content": "FIRE is not a popular sub culture. Plus … the. Biggest problem most established business has with us is our ability to withhold spending they cannot make money of. There is no fiduciary duties, just pure self interest in many financial interactions. In fairness, I do agree one thing with her. Longer time horizon brings in more risk. Past doesn’t translate to future success and no matter how much data you use. Who knows what AI will impact our lives and if climate change is going to have existential crisis in 20 years time. It’s not to reason not to FIRE to me, but it certainly is an assumption challenge I consider. I think I’m ready to FIRE in my 50s but one thing I will never give up is my skillset and knowledge. That’s my backup plan." }, { "id": "t1_omhnhrp", "author": "/u/throwsFatalException", "updated": "2026-05-18T14:29:39+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omhnhrp/", "content": "Her motivation is to see whatever her content is. That is all." }, { "id": "t1_omhnjad", "author": "/u/BaaBaaTurtle", "updated": "2026-05-18T14:29:51+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omhnjad/", "content": "She was asked about it on an interview once (maybe on NPR?) and she said something like she worries about people deciding to take their foot off the pedal during their highest earning years" }, { "id": "t1_omhq9en", "author": "/u/R5Jockey", "updated": "2026-05-18T14:42:39+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omhq9en/", "content": "I mean, basically everyone who retires does so at their highest earning level. This is a stupid argument. It’s the equivalent of advising someone to pull all of their money out of the stock market when it hits a record high." }, { "id": "t1_omhrh2m", "author": "/u/BaaBaaTurtle", "updated": "2026-05-18T14:48:15+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omhrh2m/", "content": "I'm not saying I agree with her, I'm just answering OP's question based on the best information I have" }, { "id": "t1_omhofrs", "author": "/u/Common_economics_420", "updated": "2026-05-18T14:34:09+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omhofrs/", "content": "Whenever someone like this says something that's obviously crazy, the best advice is to just ignore it. So much of this is just obvious rage bait designed to get people talking about whatever vapid celebrity or talking head just said something dumb.\n Either that or it's pure delusion/mental health issue." }, { "id": "t1_omhoshf", "author": "/u/Opplganger", "updated": "2026-05-18T14:35:49+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omhoshf/", "content": "She is projecting her needs." }, { "id": "t1_omhoxhm", "author": "/u/Princessferfs", "updated": "2026-05-18T14:36:28+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omhoxhm/", "content": "She’s always been hardcore about NO DEBT and having massive amounts of cash available" }, { "id": "t1_omhpd1b", "author": "/u/Kat9935", "updated": "2026-05-18T14:38:29+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omhpd1b/", "content": "Honestly I just assumed she was anti FIRE because it was the new thing pulling viewers away from her so you get more traction on websites, etc if you are ANTI the new thing...to stay relavant." }, { "id": "t1_omhqtdf", "author": "/u/np0x", "updated": "2026-05-18T14:45:14+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omhqtdf/", "content": "i wonder how much she even understands it, I've talked with CFO types, financial planners, and other people on the edge of retiring and they have ZERO awareness of the basic principles of FIRE...which could be explained fully to a completely nascent 13-year-old in an afternoon." }, { "id": "t1_omhre8f", "author": "/u/HealingDailyy", "updated": "2026-05-18T14:47:53+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omhre8f/", "content": "Most people I know says it’s unrealistic and make people give up saving at all. Is that logical? Absolutely not." }, { "id": "t1_omhs16j", "author": "/u/srqfla", "updated": "2026-05-18T14:50:49+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omhs16j/", "content": "Look at actuarial statistics. Someone above the age of 70 is more likely to die in the next 10 years then run out of all the money that they have saved.\n For anyone over the age of 70 , there's a 100% chance You will die in 30 years. But that person probably has a less than 10% chance they will run out of all their money 💰" }, { "id": "t1_omhst1i", "author": "/u/ShowdownValue", "updated": "2026-05-18T14:54:22+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omhst1i/", "content": "No way Susie says you need 100m to retire." }, { "id": "t1_omht0sr", "author": "/u/usafmsc", "updated": "2026-05-18T14:55:21+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omht0sr/", "content": "Susie sells shit. Full stop." }, { "id": "t1_omht1jd", "author": "/u/PowerfulZucchini208", "updated": "2026-05-18T14:55:26+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omht1jd/", "content": "You’re not gonna engage with all her content and make her money if you feel like you don’t need to. She’s got to make you feel like you need that hundred million to keep you coming back." }, { "id": "t1_omht3mr", "author": "/u/equippedsaint", "updated": "2026-05-18T14:55:42+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omht3mr/", "content": "She’s getting paid by her overlords to keep us consuming bots" }, { "id": "t1_omhtff6", "author": "/u/drkslr", "updated": "2026-05-18T14:57:10+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omhtff6/", "content": "who?" }, { "id": "t1_omhx7ce", "author": "/u/FiRE-CPA", "updated": "2026-05-18T15:14:26+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omhx7ce/", "content": "That's her number maybe? It's absurd." }, { "id": "t1_omi0kpj", "author": "/u/ElJacinto", "updated": "2026-05-18T15:29:45+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omi0kpj/", "content": "I feel like half the people I see in this subreddit also think you need $5 million or more." }, { "id": "t1_omi18ut", "author": "/u/cliftondon", "updated": "2026-05-18T15:32:49+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omi18ut/", "content": "I listen to Suze (not Susie) on her podcast. I don’t think she acknowledges FIRE as a community but she does focus on helping people find security, whatever that means to them. Particularly women who have had relatives sucking them dry or making boneheaded money moves. She delves into the emotional side of money. She is ridiculous but well intended I think. I think she dispenses a lot of good common sense advice and answers a lot of good questions with compassion and tough love. She’s not everyone’s cup of tea, I get that. Also she doesn’t live on an island anymore." }, { "id": "t1_omi4t3p", "author": "/u/Otherwise_Surround99", "updated": "2026-05-18T15:48:51+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omi4t3p/", "content": "I don’t like Susie Orman but I would not retire early without 10" }, { "id": "t1_omi65xm", "author": "/u/After-Jellyfish5094", "updated": "2026-05-18T15:55:01+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omi65xm/", "content": "I've never heard of this person, and I'm glad." }, { "id": "t1_omi6ig9", "author": "/u/hapster85", "updated": "2026-05-18T15:56:35+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omi6ig9/", "content": "Respect for the good ones, sure." }, { "id": "t1_omi6xfz", "author": "/u/undergroundmusic69", "updated": "2026-05-18T15:58:28+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omi6xfz/", "content": "Don’t forget, these elites want you to keep working and saving. They make money on your money and labor. If most people knew you could get away without working anymore with only a little saved (like fire’ing to SE Asia or something), we would be out of a workforce and the elites would lose their source of income." }, { "id": "t1_omi75ay", "author": "/u/Opening-Restaurant83", "updated": "2026-05-18T15:59:27+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omi75ay/", "content": "People like Suze Orman will never have what a lot of us will have.\n Enough" }, { "id": "t1_omi9mmk", "author": "/u/parkchanwookiee", "updated": "2026-05-18T16:10:59+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omi9mmk/", "content": "If I had 20m I would give more than half of it away" }, { "id": "t1_omiae27", "author": "/u/TheCharalampos", "updated": "2026-05-18T16:14:28+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omiae27/", "content": "How many clicks would a channel say "Hey folks, it's all good" in comparison." }, { "id": "t1_omiebgx", "author": "/u/bob49877", "updated": "2026-05-18T16:32:31+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omiebgx/", "content": "People in spend down mode have less money to invest. Our 401K guy told us we didn't have enough money to retire, despite his own retirement planning software saying otherwise, because with extra free time we would need money for expensive hobbies like African safaries in retirement.\n The more you save the more investment companies make off their fees, and those investment companies are her sponsors." }, { "id": "t1_omiigoj", "author": "/u/alrachid", "updated": "2026-05-18T16:51:19+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omiigoj/", "content": "If I had 350k I could survive…. All bills paid monthly through schd divs. Any income on top of that would be for fun." }, { "id": "t1_omijanv", "author": "/u/rons27", "updated": "2026-05-18T16:55:00+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omijanv/", "content": "Here is the podcast episode from FIRE enthusiast Paula Pant back in 2018 when Suze Orman discussed the FIRE movement: https://affordanything.com/153-hate-fire-movement-suze-orman/" }, { "id": "t1_omijy6g", "author": "/u/RoboticGreg", "updated": "2026-05-18T16:57:55+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omijy6g/", "content": "She's both completely out of touch with normal people, and she wants to drive engagement through fear. She's just soliciting more eyes" }, { "id": "t1_omimgnt", "author": "/u/ModsAwful", "updated": "2026-05-18T17:09:11+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omimgnt/", "content": "$5M you will have very nice retirement, even at 4% withdrawal that’s $200K. $10M? lol, what % save that much? To get to those numbers you’d be living frugal (or very high income) so your standard of living would actually rise in retirement for most people. That’s not the norm." }, { "id": "t1_omiompy", "author": "/u/Previous_Guitar5027", "updated": "2026-05-18T17:18:57+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omiompy/", "content": "She needs people to keep watching her show. If she knew what she was talking about wouldn’t she be retired?" }, { "id": "t1_omitebd", "author": "/u/Dry_Row_7523", "updated": "2026-05-18T17:43:00+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omitebd/", "content": "One of my good friends is aiming for that $5-10m range…. To raise kids in a nice house in a good neighborhood of the most expensive metro area in the world (Bay Area). For almost anywhere else in the world the number would be below that range" }, { "id": "t1_omj06aa", "author": "/u/Proper-Print-9505", "updated": "2026-05-18T18:23:19+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omj06aa/", "content": "She is probably referring to a couple living in a VHCOL area that has kids and grandkids that they want to provide some level of support to through gifts for downpayment on a first home, helping with college, bringing them along on extended family travel, and leaving them an inheritance. Using a conservatively high number also protects retirees from worst case scenarios if the market tanks at the worst possible time. My wife and I currently raise our family in a HCOL area on about $220k annually, but we are targeting $10M to retire in 10 years in our late 50s. If inflation brings that $220k to $300k in retirement, that's a 3% withdrawal rate, which makes me more comfortable than 3.5 or 4%. A single person with no kids living in LCOL area obviously needs far less money." }, { "id": "t1_omj3yfc", "author": "/u/One-Mastodon-1063", "updated": "2026-05-18T18:42:33+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omj3yfc/", "content": "She's stupid and is a grifter. Who cares what she says or why." }, { "id": "t1_omj5687", "author": "/u/DependentTaste283", "updated": "2026-05-18T18:48:37+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omj5687/", "content": "I don't understand anyone feeling like they can specify a portfolio size for someone else. Rather the guidance should be more like - make sure you can live on 4% of your portfolio's value before you retire. The emphasis should be as much or more on budgeting, setting yourself up for a low-expense retirement, than on continuing to grind at work until you have $10MM. You have two levers you can pull to control when you retire." }, { "id": "t1_omj960w", "author": "/u/Tompin68", "updated": "2026-05-18T19:08:34+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omj960w/", "content": "Lmfao at 350-400k annual, AFTER TAXES. I would imagine less than 5% of the US population clears anywhere near this even when they are still working.\n How out of touch can you be?" }, { "id": "t1_omjabmo", "author": "/u/Apoxie", "updated": "2026-05-18T19:14:27+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omjabmo/", "content": "IF you cant retire on 3M dollars you are simply not trying hard enough. You dont have to live in the highest COL possible that you can find. You can retire on 3M dollars in like 99% of all cities and countries in the world." }, { "id": "t1_omjb7ye", "author": "/u/gingerbakerisgod", "updated": "2026-05-18T19:18:59+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omjb7ye/", "content": "Lol That's how much she needs not how much anyone else needs" }, { "id": "t1_omjfcq4", "author": "/u/Hefty-Average2899", "updated": "2026-05-18T19:40:37+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omjfcq4/", "content": "My mom always spends weeks telling me she’s getting a used car this time because Susie Orman says, and I’m like just like every car you’ve ever had since marrying into a 20+ year GM Retiree employee discount family, we will go to the Cadillac dealer, give them a code and walk out in 90 min or so for less.\n Her current car KBB tried to buy it 3 years old (with 8k miles in it) for MORE than we paid out the door.\n Suzie Orman has cost me more time every time than the entire car purchase process takes with her nonsense." }, { "id": "t1_omjl3d7", "author": "/u/Emergency-Cold7615", "updated": "2026-05-18T20:07:35+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omjl3d7/", "content": "I have no idea who Susie Orman is. I would like to know the **WHY** of why you'd need 350-400k/yr to live off of. I would have to do a LOT of travel or do like regular heli-skiing all winter and seriously increase my house/mortgage to approach that level of spend and I am in the top ~3% househould income." }, { "id": "t1_omjsg3a", "author": "/u/Jesus__Skywalker", "updated": "2026-05-18T20:41:02+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omjsg3a/", "content": "If we got to a point where things were THAT BAD. There would be a civil war." }, { "id": "t1_omk2vrx", "author": "/u/ClingTurtle", "updated": "2026-05-18T21:30:42+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omk2vrx/", "content": "If you're like 18 and inflation doesn't settle down for 45 years... then maybe." }, { "id": "t1_omk473j", "author": "/u/justUseAnSvm", "updated": "2026-05-18T21:37:21+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omk473j/", "content": "There's no simple way to monetize an online community like FIRE, and she has every incentive to tell people to keep working and buying whatever planning product she is hawking.\n FIRE has a few aspects that mean it will be popular but never a mass market phenom:\n 0. it's a much smaller financial advice market than "get out of debt"\n 1. The fundamental pressure in FIRE is to consume less and live frugally\n 2. Simple rules like 4%, easy access to investment instruments, and an online community mean we don't need to buy advice in order to understand and move towards retirement.\n The crazy thing, is we don't need Susie Orman." }, { "id": "t1_omk6mcv", "author": "/u/Alternative-Drop3994", "updated": "2026-05-18T21:50:07+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omk6mcv/", "content": "I stopped listening to her podcast because of this and it feels like she never wants people retire." }, { "id": "t1_omk8jo5", "author": "/u/artbystorms", "updated": "2026-05-18T22:00:19+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omk8jo5/", "content": "These people benefit from financially scaring people into investing more and buying their book, so a simple modest approach to retirement doesn't sell books for them. Plus they are just wildly rich and out of touch, so they think a banana costs $10." }, { "id": "t1_omk8y8l", "author": "/u/Temporary_Car_1462", "updated": "2026-05-18T22:02:31+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omk8y8l/", "content": "She has figured out what is rage bait engagement lol. Look at how many comments this post got." }, { "id": "t1_omkak2b", "author": "/u/Regalbuto77", "updated": "2026-05-18T22:11:26+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omkak2b/", "content": "With all due respect to her because I know she helped a lot of people she even helped me before I knew any better but she’s a hack" }, { "id": "t1_omkdans", "author": "/u/Murky-Gate7795", "updated": "2026-05-18T22:26:53+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omkdans/", "content": "I don’t know anything about this lady but her take is crazy. Hardly anyone retires with 20-100m. That’s insane" }, { "id": "t1_omkex9u", "author": "/u/grumpy0282", "updated": "2026-05-18T22:36:18+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omkex9u/", "content": "no idea who that is\n im happily living on 4.5" }, { "id": "t1_omkhz5p", "author": "/u/Beautyfadez", "updated": "2026-05-18T22:53:43+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omkhz5p/", "content": "I guess she cant survive off of 175k either." }, { "id": "t1_omki8o0", "author": "/u/giant_pygmy", "updated": "2026-05-18T22:55:13+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omki8o0/", "content": "Because she knows her audience." }, { "id": "t1_oml2d0y", "author": "/u/WritesWayTooMuch", "updated": "2026-05-19T00:51:33+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/oml2d0y/", "content": "Some people get addicted to their careers and feel everyone else should be like that as well.\n It's a very American issue lol." }, { "id": "t1_oml2fzy", "author": "/u/RandomRedditUser--", "updated": "2026-05-19T00:52:01+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/oml2fzy/", "content": "she is is just a Talking Heads who's trying to sell her opinions\n Take everything with a grain of salt" }, { "id": "t1_omlmce4", "author": "/u/Zergege", "updated": "2026-05-19T02:45:50+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omlmce4/", "content": "Literally last person to take any advice from, lol" }, { "id": "t1_omlr049", "author": "/u/zorn7777", "updated": "2026-05-19T03:13:13+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omlr049/", "content": "Now google Susie Orman out of touch with reality. Cheers" }, { "id": "t1_omlrdl1", "author": "/u/playzintraffic", "updated": "2026-05-19T03:15:29+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omlrdl1/", "content": "Lol she’s a total hack and charlatan. Do not trust a single word out of her piehole." }, { "id": "t1_omm22pn", "author": "/u/cjd280", "updated": "2026-05-19T04:24:14+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omm22pn/", "content": "Who?" }, { "id": "t1_omn2oke", "author": "/u/the_atomic_punk18", "updated": "2026-05-19T09:37:57+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omn2oke/", "content": "If one saves, it possible to achieve" }, { "id": "t1_omnyf45", "author": "/u/Substantial_Carob683", "updated": "2026-05-19T13:09:47+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omnyf45/", "content": "She is an idiot" }, { "id": "t1_omodk27", "author": "/u/Choice-Newspaper3603", "updated": "2026-05-19T14:25:02+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omodk27/", "content": "I didn’t know she was still relevant. Or even doing anything\n I can figure out my own monthly expenses and I don’t need 3 million or $5 million to live. I don’t even make that now or have that now so why would I need it later?\n I made 187 k last year at work and $5k of that was investment dividends that was reinvested.\n 48k of that was put into my 401k. Probably another 20k was put in savings\n 14k went to social security and Medicare that I wouldn’t be paying in retirement\n And there were other things taken out of my check but out of the 187,000 I only took home around 98k. The 20k into savings came from the 98k so I lived well on 78k and also gave my gf 10k for a car\n So I lived on 68k and I bought a lot of stuff, but I have no debt and my house is paid off and I went on vacation for ten days in Mexico. I don’t know where this three to $5 million comes into play.\n I have a pension and social security of about 60k at 62 years old. And I have like 1.8 million in savings and investments now with several hundred thousand in a Roth. I think I’ll be fine with a few years until I retire at 59" }, { "id": "t1_ompl597", "author": "/u/Proof_Sheepherder899", "updated": "2026-05-19T17:41:12+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/ompl597/", "content": "She's a Dumbo, so." }, { "id": "t1_omqdn2y", "author": "/u/entitie", "updated": "2026-05-19T19:48:41+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omqdn2y/", "content": "The last thing she wants is to (hypothetically) put out a retirement target like $4M, which would work for many frugal FIRE aficionados, only to have some dope save up that much, retire, and then spend carelessly, going on all the morning shows claiming they did what she said only to go broke.\n She's of course going to be more conservative than she needs to be in order to avoid public criticism (or, worse, lawsuits)." }, { "id": "t1_omqw7py", "author": "/u/Accurate_Cash2920", "updated": "2026-05-19T21:12:11+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omqw7py/", "content": "I think a lot of these gurus are scared they will get sued. So they give the most conservative advice. To be honest, it’s almost impossible to go broke with 10million unless you do something totally and obviously stupid with the money" }, { "id": "t1_omrg4kq", "author": "/u/Witty-Surprise-6954", "updated": "2026-05-19T22:54:13+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omrg4kq/", "content": "She annoys me. Most of what she says is scare tactics and keeps everyone buying her crap and clicking on her videos." }, { "id": "t1_omrghi5", "author": "/u/Medium-Sherbet-3840", "updated": "2026-05-19T22:56:11+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omrghi5/", "content": "Shes also assuming everyone wants a big house in America. So many look abroad or a tiny house etc" }, { "id": "t1_omrl3la", "author": "/u/idealistintherealw", "updated": "2026-05-19T23:21:46+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omrl3la/", "content": "She equates her personal lifestyle with everyone and lives in a large city on a coast." }, { "id": "t1_omrlh0x", "author": "/u/Available-Whole-874", "updated": "2026-05-19T23:23:51+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omrlh0x/", "content": "If you own a small amount of land…..like really small amount can do, grow your own food or at least a nice %. Cook from scratch and don’t care what other people think you can retire with a fraction of what the “media” thinks. They want you to spend more in order to prop up the companies they invest in. Happiness is freedom not spending. Freedom can be achieved so much faster if you remove social media and focus on life, health and fun not spending, debt and constant need to impress." }, { "id": "t1_omrptr9", "author": "/u/WasteFront1988", "updated": "2026-05-19T23:48:31+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omrptr9/", "content": "Because the more people who FIRE, the less money she makes" }, { "id": "t1_oms27o4", "author": "/u/frazzbot", "updated": "2026-05-20T00:59:32+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/oms27o4/", "content": "Maybe she’s baking in some worst-case scenario medical costs or assisted living expenses?" }, { "id": "t1_oms7dqs", "author": "/u/Beautiful_Review_336", "updated": "2026-05-20T01:29:00+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/oms7dqs/", "content": "Maybe she knows something about inflation the rest of us don’t? Also, I agree with another comment that she living her life in a luxurious location/way with those numbers… She is not planning on living in the Philippines in a one bedroom apt." }, { "id": "t1_omtahm7", "author": "/u/FlyinUte", "updated": "2026-05-20T05:45:58+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omtahm7/", "content": "Who tf listens to Susie Orman?!?" }, { "id": "t1_omtbq7n", "author": "/u/Available-Ad-5670", "updated": "2026-05-20T05:56:05+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omtbq7n/", "content": "A lot people do" }, { "id": "t1_omtm9qp", "author": "/u/NoSurprise7196", "updated": "2026-05-20T07:25:20+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omtm9qp/", "content": "Turning 45 this year and still renting! Work 60 hours a week. Just got laid off in Silicon Valley. She’s from a different universe to us elder millennials." }, { "id": "t1_omu98jy", "author": "/u/Hot-Swordfish2105", "updated": "2026-05-20T10:42:07+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omu98jy/", "content": "Her net worth is what 75 mil...of.course you need 10 million...I was a little underwhelmed with nw..spender...maybe???\n That said, imo she's anti fire because it doesn't fit her marketing demographic...she wants mid 50's wanna retirees hanging off her every word and drinking the kool aid...a 30 yo millionaire doesn't need her and probably knows more than her.." }, { "id": "t1_omw3lfd", "author": "/u/Sneaker_Pump", "updated": "2026-05-20T16:26:14+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omw3lfd/", "content": "She competes with FIRE for customers. So she’s basically saying “listen to me, not them”. We did FIRE and retired 5 years ago and are doing fine! I never thought I’d go hiking, camping, and walking so much. And lots of seeing relatives. If you’re doing FIRE, stay the course and don’t listen to Suze." }, { "id": "t1_omyub0t", "author": "/u/Bailey6486", "updated": "2026-05-21T00:37:43+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omyub0t/", "content": "Maybe she's addressing people who are high earners who want to retire with an affluent lifestyle. If someone has been earning $400,000 a year they probably don't want to live on $80,000 in retirement." }, { "id": "t1_omz9klg", "author": "/u/FigawiFreak", "updated": "2026-05-21T02:02:30+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omz9klg/", "content": "size is a failed financial advisor she made all her money on TV not in the professional world of financial planning. fact!!" }, { "id": "t1_omh6d1u", "author": "/u/zeitgeist98764", "updated": "2026-05-18T13:02:19+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omh6d1u/", "content": "She’s jealous lol" }, { "id": "t1_omh8q4f", "author": "/u/Nyssa_aquatica", "updated": "2026-05-18T13:15:03+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omh8q4f/", "content": "She’s a hoarder. Hoarders are our common enemy." }, { "id": "t1_omherdu", "author": "/u/Legal-Statistician2", "updated": "2026-05-18T13:46:40+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omherdu/", "content": "Tom: You can't do anything with five, Greg. Five's a nightmare.\n Greg: Is it?\n Connor: Oh, yeah. Can't retire. Not worth it to work. Oh, yes, five will drive you un poco loco, my fine feathered friend.\n Tom: The poorest rich person in America. The world's tallest dwarf.\n Connor: The weakest strong man at the circus." }, { "id": "t1_omhmo0k", "author": "/u/Thescubadave", "updated": "2026-05-18T14:25:44+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omhmo0k/", "content": "r/gregFIRE" }, { "id": "t1_omhgg24", "author": "/u/adultdaycare81", "updated": "2026-05-18T13:55:14+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omhgg24/", "content": "A lot of people who retire early die or are just straight up unhappy.\n Even when you isolate out the people who retire due to illness it’s staggering. That’s why we always say “Retire to something”. Humans need purpose in their lives. If it’s not work, that’s fine. But you need to find something to do\n https://www.ssa.gov/policy/docs/workingpapers/wp93.html" }, { "id": "t1_omhnr9a", "author": "/u/Puzzleheaded_Tie6917", "updated": "2026-05-18T14:30:53+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omhnr9a/", "content": "It’s not necessary for there to be a conspiracy. You never know the future, so how do you know you have enough? Add in the fact she has always been rich, and she can’t conceive of the idea that less than 10-20 million can be enough.\n I rarely find myself really listening to her advice. I don’t think she’s that good of an advisor, shes often over the top conservative and since she didn’t mind working and has been rich for a long time she doesn’t see why anyone would retire early and add a little bit of risk.\n From a purely financial risk point of view, working until you die is always less risky. I just happen to want something better for myself than just leaving my kids and wife more cash after I’m dead." }, { "id": "t1_ominqhe", "author": "/u/d2creative", "updated": "2026-05-18T17:14:55+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/ominqhe/", "content": "Bitch be crazy." }, { "id": "t1_omipooa", "author": "/u/That-SoCal-Guy", "updated": "2026-05-18T17:23:41+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omipooa/", "content": "She’s out of touch. $400K to live on? Obviously she’s taking to 99% of Americans." }, { "id": "t1_omiq02f", "author": "/u/Determined420", "updated": "2026-05-18T17:25:05+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omiq02f/", "content": "After taxes and savings all I had was about 90k last year. I didn’t think I was particularly frugal on that either. I took two vacations. And I’m in California.\n She’s out of touch" }, { "id": "t1_omiq5v8", "author": "/u/Awkward_Passion4004", "updated": "2026-05-18T17:25:47+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omiq5v8/", "content": "Protecting her market share." }, { "id": "t1_omiqggt", "author": "/u/Aberdeen1964", "updated": "2026-05-18T17:27:09+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omiqggt/", "content": "Susie Orman is to FIRE what L Ron Hubbard is to Religion. It all sounds good but it is the polar opposite of what is true." }, { "id": "t1_omismci", "author": "/u/Chemical-Carrot-9975", "updated": "2026-05-18T17:38:26+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omismci/", "content": "Because she makes money off being a loud mouthed contrarian." }, { "id": "t1_omisxn5", "author": "/u/Immediate-Celery-446", "updated": "2026-05-18T17:40:16+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omisxn5/", "content": "Why are you listening to Susie Orman?" }, { "id": "t1_omitglz", "author": "/u/Sea-Bill78", "updated": "2026-05-18T17:43:23+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omitglz/", "content": "She is probably sponsored by financial institutions who make money from your money, the more you save and keep in a bank, the more banks will make." }, { "id": "t1_omitn5c", "author": "/u/granolaraisin", "updated": "2026-05-18T17:44:26+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omitn5c/", "content": "Listen. She knows bananas cost like $10 each. Thats a lot of scratch." }, { "id": "t1_omiuasb", "author": "/u/Denan004", "updated": "2026-05-18T17:48:19+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omiuasb/", "content": "I stopped listening to her when she said you need several million to retire. Not helpful or realistic to most regular people." }, { "id": "t1_omixwlh", "author": "/u/krona2k", "updated": "2026-05-18T18:10:38+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omixwlh/", "content": "Mad as a box of frogs and living in a different world. Also probably just lying, it’s very common these days." }, { "id": "t1_omiy0dr", "author": "/u/Economy_Proof_7668", "updated": "2026-05-18T18:11:16+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omiy0dr/", "content": "she’s terrible. All she ever says is “you can’t afford it” well how about focusing on ways people can get more money? duh. I think she’s pretty people on fixed salaries that they don’t realize they can change jobs or something." }, { "id": "t1_omj58ek", "author": "/u/StatisticianNo4044", "updated": "2026-05-18T18:48:55+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omj58ek/", "content": "She's a nut." }, { "id": "t1_omh8xd9", "author": "/u/jelle814", "updated": "2026-05-18T13:16:07+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omh8xd9/", "content": "who? never heard of her" }, { "id": "t1_omi00l4", "author": "/u/cypherblock", "updated": "2026-05-18T15:27:12+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omi00l4/", "content": "Well u do need 5-10 mostly but I have a friend who is super frugal and he retired with like 3. I mean in US high cost of living area it’s easy to spend a lot." }, { "id": "t1_omk1csl", "author": "/u/HalfwaydonewithEarth", "updated": "2026-05-18T21:23:08+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1tglu8n/why_is_susie_orman_so_against_fire/omk1csl/", "content": "Don't take advice from women that don't enjoy d#$% and are childfree.\n Ignore her and all the other Charlatans.\n Suzy Orman told a family with good incomes to not take a vacation.\n The problems with a life like that is it leads to divorce. Couples need to reconnect and have strong romance, family bonds in nature. It can prevent having 50% of your net worth going to your ex spouses new lover.\n I have single mom renters that move in a new boyfriend. The ex husband literally gets to pay for her new boyfriend.\n So take time off and be in love. Suzy has no kids, no husband, and is living in high cost areas." } ] }, { "source": "r/Fire top month", "id": "t3_1td14c4", "title": "New to this. I have no idea what to tell people I \"do.\" Suggestions?", "author": "/u/CrashDriveMegaGig", "updated": "2026-05-14T15:11:38+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/", "content": "I (37M) recently came into almost $3mil from a family inheritance and am able to basically never work again (no kids, house paid off, car paid off). I live humbly. If you were to see my house and car, there's no way you'd think "that guy's a millionaire." And I'd like to keep it that way. I've got a great financial advisor, CPA, and budget. That said, I have no idea what to tell people what I do for work now (namely women I'm dating). I don't want to say "live off inheritance" as that sounds...IDK...weird. But I also don't want to lie. It's always felt a bit uncouth to talk about finances anyway, but in the dating world at my age, it's an important factor. I know I'm not the only one here who's been in this situation, so I'd love any advice or suggestions to navigate this! Thanks so much.\n EDIT : Wow. I did not expect this post to garner so much attention. Thank you to those who offered some actual solid advice--it's much appreciated! I'd like to clear some things up/give a bit more context.\n\n- I have a very active social life filled with myriad hobbies, so I'm not just sitting around doing nothing (and I absolutely agree that doing nothing is unattractive no matter your bank account). I also volunteer and plan on starting a foundation to honor this relative.\n- I'm 100% not a "so what do you do?" first date kind of guy. It's trite and boring. That said, I'm looking for something real and longterm, which means that I'll inevitably have to divulge how I finance my travels, hobbies, dinners, etc.\n- I grew up poor. My father left when I was a baby and my mom often worked two jobs. This relative was someone I stayed with in the summer and grew close to. Everyone in the family thought they had some money, but no one really knew how much because they were quite frugal and never really worked. This was a big surprise for me as well as for others in my family. This world is very new to me.\n- Finally, thanks for the laughs...from the sarcastic and humorous all the way to the haters <3 submitted by /u/CrashDriveMegaGig\n [link] [comments]", "contentHtml": "

I (37M) recently came into almost $3mil from a family inheritance and am able to basically never work again (no kids, house paid off, car paid off). I live humbly. If you were to see my house and car, there's no way you'd think "that guy's a millionaire." And I'd like to keep it that way. I've got a great financial advisor, CPA, and budget. That said, I have no idea what to tell people what I do for work now (namely women I'm dating). I don't want to say "live off inheritance" as that sounds...IDK...weird. But I also don't want to lie. It's always felt a bit uncouth to talk about finances anyway, but in the dating world at my age, it's an important factor. I know I'm not the only one here who's been in this situation, so I'd love any advice or suggestions to navigate this! Thanks so much.

EDIT: Wow. I did not expect this post to garner so much attention. Thank you to those who offered some actual solid advice--it's much appreciated! I'd like to clear some things up/give a bit more context.

submitted by /u/CrashDriveMegaGig
[link] [comments]", "comments": [ { "id": "t1_olrx8w7", "author": "/u/denvershroomer", "updated": "2026-05-14T15:14:23+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/olrx8w7/", "content": "Just say you’re a consultant because nobody knows what they do anyways." }, { "id": "t1_ols2qi9", "author": "/u/thatErraticguy", "updated": "2026-05-14T15:39:03+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/ols2qi9/", "content": "Nobody knows what it means, but it’s provocative" }, { "id": "t1_ols4cwv", "author": "/u/cojacko", "updated": "2026-05-14T15:46:14+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/ols4cwv/", "content": "It gets the people going" }, { "id": "t1_olsae9v", "author": "/u/pnwlife2021", "updated": "2026-05-14T16:13:11+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/olsae9v/", "content": "(Consultants) ball so hard" }, { "id": "t1_olsrf88", "author": "/u/loyalwolf186", "updated": "2026-05-14T17:29:30+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/olsrf88/", "content": "I am fascinated by the number of times I see Onii referenced on Reddit, especially in the FIRE sub, of all places, lol" }, { "id": "t1_oltuq6k", "author": "/u/alpha358", "updated": "2026-05-14T20:31:25+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/oltuq6k/", "content": "bill so hard" }, { "id": "t1_olu1di7", "author": "/u/spiritsarise", "updated": "2026-05-14T21:03:40+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/olu1di7/", "content": "My go to description is “Consultants are people who paint bullseyes around bullet holes.”" }, { "id": "t1_olte8p2", "author": "/u/DigmonsDrill", "updated": "2026-05-14T19:13:31+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/olte8p2/", "content": "Because of the implication" }, { "id": "t1_ols5atz", "author": "/u/Asn_Browser", "updated": "2026-05-14T15:50:22+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/ols5atz/", "content": "Just add freelance in they so you have a built in excuse for flexibility." }, { "id": "t1_oltlyh2", "author": "/u/TaiwanGolfer", "updated": "2026-05-14T19:50:04+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/oltlyh2/", "content": "Freelance Investment Consultant. The ultimate ambiguous career." }, { "id": "t1_olunyws", "author": "/u/Sznake", "updated": "2026-05-14T23:03:19+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/olunyws/", "content": "Careful.This might peak the interest of some unsavory characters." }, { "id": "t1_olwdjsw", "author": "/u/Fuzzy_Werewolf_9054", "updated": "2026-05-15T05:46:36+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/olwdjsw/", "content": "*pique" }, { "id": "t1_olzx2az", "author": "/u/tyates723", "updated": "2026-05-15T18:36:31+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/olzx2az/", "content": "Learned a thing today" }, { "id": "t1_olww177", "author": "/u/creekriverocean", "updated": "2026-05-15T08:28:00+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/olww177/", "content": "Thank you!" }, { "id": "t1_om5gm7a", "author": "/u/Sznake", "updated": "2026-05-16T16:00:36+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/om5gm7a/", "content": "Merci!" }, { "id": "t1_olwmmta", "author": "/u/SnabDedraterEdave", "updated": "2026-05-15T07:03:29+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/olwmmta/", "content": "Freelance Investment Retirement Efficiency Consultant, AKA FIRE Consultant. ;)" }, { "id": "t1_olxq0w6", "author": "/u/Weary-Activity-6506", "updated": "2026-05-15T12:15:02+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/olxq0w6/", "content": "Ridiculous 😆" }, { "id": "t1_oly56xu", "author": "/u/SnabDedraterEdave", "updated": "2026-05-15T13:37:47+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/oly56xu/", "content": "Thank you." }, { "id": "t1_olv42rc", "author": "/u/Tone-Deft", "updated": "2026-05-15T00:37:02+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/olv42rc/", "content": "Freelance Investment Consultant Influencer Coach" }, { "id": "t1_olvf598", "author": "/u/Important-Art4006", "updated": "2026-05-15T01:43:34+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/olvf598/", "content": "No" }, { "id": "t1_olstm8d", "author": "/u/Drawer-Vegetable", "updated": "2026-05-14T17:39:15+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/olstm8d/", "content": "import export at vandelay industries" }, { "id": "t1_olu0iof", "author": "/u/dorobouakarui", "updated": "2026-05-14T20:59:28+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/olu0iof/", "content": "I see what you did there, George!" }, { "id": "t1_olv5sqo", "author": "/u/TIM_TRAVELS", "updated": "2026-05-15T00:47:27+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/olv5sqo/", "content": "Are you having an affair with Elaine?" }, { "id": "t1_olzjd8j", "author": "/u/Philbly", "updated": "2026-05-15T17:32:25+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/olzjd8j/", "content": "Import/export at Universal Export Co." }, { "id": "t1_olz6fhu", "author": "/u/OkPapaya588", "updated": "2026-05-15T16:33:00+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/olz6fhu/", "content": "r/mylatexsalesman" }, { "id": "t1_ols63ba", "author": "/u/Salty-Taro3804", "updated": "2026-05-14T15:53:54+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/ols63ba/", "content": "Absolutely this- independent consultant for (whatever industry you were last employed by). Also keeping eyes open for the next opportunity.\n "Retired", or "I just inherited a crapton of money at 37" in my mind just would increase your attractiveness to the wrong sort of person WRT dating." }, { "id": "t1_olsrugc", "author": "/u/poop-dolla", "updated": "2026-05-14T17:31:24+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/olsrugc/", "content": "That’s a smart addition, because my immediate thought to someone saying they’re a consultant is to ask what field they’re in and then some more follow up specifics depending on that answer. Talking about your previous field covers those since you’d have answers ready and could talk about specifics if the person asking has experience in that same field." }, { "id": "t1_oltzvoy", "author": "/u/Salty-Taro3804", "updated": "2026-05-14T20:56:22+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/oltzvoy/", "content": "And in most of our past fields taking about our area of expertise for 30-60 seconds will get pretty much any potential match to say “wow cool, had no idea industrial lubricants were so important. Where should we go for dinner?” and never bring subject of work up again." }, { "id": "t1_oltxdx2", "author": "/u/HumerousMoniker", "updated": "2026-05-14T20:44:13+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/oltxdx2/", "content": "You can actively be a consultant for {industry}, just not have any and don’t seek any clients." }, { "id": "t1_olu7bv5", "author": "/u/rubey419", "updated": "2026-05-14T21:33:04+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/olu7bv5/", "content": "The funny outcome being in my head, the stranger asking questions wants to hire OP because he’s exactly who they’re looking for" }, { "id": "t1_olx04ao", "author": "/u/GotGRR", "updated": "2026-05-15T09:05:08+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/olx04ao/", "content": "That's all upside. Consultants parachute in, do a brief survey of what's wrong for obscene amounts of money and fly out through the roof like Superman during the honeymoon period period before anyone has time to ask awkward questions like, "won't that break our entire business model," and "what are we going to do about this hole in our roof?"" }, { "id": "t1_ols5lk4", "author": "/u/steelballer390", "updated": "2026-05-14T15:51:42+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/ols5lk4/", "content": "Freelance Consultant" }, { "id": "t1_olu19ao", "author": "/u/CrashDriveMegaGig", "updated": "2026-05-14T21:03:07+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/olu19ao/", "content": "This was my initial thought. I previously worked freelance as a brand consultant specializing in SEO, content tone, editorial calendars, etc." }, { "id": "t1_olujsbs", "author": "/u/RyricKrael", "updated": "2026-05-14T22:39:40+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/olujsbs/", "content": "This is the answer. If you want to make it “real,” just do some of this pro bono for a non profit or two as volunteer work." }, { "id": "t1_ols97ex", "author": "/u/BlazedAndConfused", "updated": "2026-05-14T16:07:51+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/ols97ex/", "content": "This. My buddy is retired now and says just that. “IT Network Consultant” lol" }, { "id": "t1_olv2s4f", "author": "/u/FortheredditLOLz", "updated": "2026-05-15T00:29:14+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/olv2s4f/", "content": "I got friends who worked for a consultant, and even talking about their jobs sometimes. I still don’t know what they do." }, { "id": "t1_olvneii", "author": "/u/wagdog1970", "updated": "2026-05-15T02:33:42+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/olvneii/", "content": "I’m a people person damnit!" }, { "id": "t1_olsgaa6", "author": "/u/matthew19", "updated": "2026-05-14T16:39:37+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/olsgaa6/", "content": "You consult wealth managers and manage the wealth of consultants." }, { "id": "t1_olu0sc4", "author": "/u/ThrowawayLDS_7gen", "updated": "2026-05-14T21:00:47+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/olu0sc4/", "content": "Aka unemployed." }, { "id": "t1_olw1xvq", "author": "/u/Own_Mall5442", "updated": "2026-05-15T04:15:47+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/olw1xvq/", "content": "He literally said he didn’t want to lie and the first piece of advice is to lie.\n Tell people you’re retired. Tell them “I used to do [insert profession], but I retired from that and now I do [insert volunteer work, hobbies, etc].\n You don’t have to tell anyone you inherited millions of dollars. Most people aren’t rude enough to interrogate a 37-year-old who says “I’m retired.” They’ll just assume you did really well for yourself and move on, unless you are in a setting where professional success is sort of the point of the gathering, in which case you are going to get more questions." }, { "id": "t1_olrxmsx", "author": "/u/Due-Category2159", "updated": "2026-05-14T15:16:09+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/olrxmsx/", "content": "What you’re running up again is that doing nothing is unattractive regardless of whether you have enough money to survive or not. Trust fund baby is a pejorative for a reason.\n Talk about your hobbies, your volunteering, your arts, etc. If you don’t have those… develop them!" }, { "id": "t1_ols6m3i", "author": "/u/SeldomSeen31", "updated": "2026-05-14T15:56:12+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/ols6m3i/", "content": "You're in wealth management." }, { "id": "t1_ols96tv", "author": "/u/srqfla", "updated": "2026-05-14T16:07:47+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/ols96tv/", "content": "Precisely. You're a concierge financial advisor. You have a very small number of clients. The number is 1." }, { "id": "t1_olsr226", "author": "/u/this_is_poorly_done", "updated": "2026-05-14T17:27:55+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/olsr226/", "content": "Just like in college, a business major isn't a drug dealer but rather a peer-2-peer material broker who specializes in connecting customers to a highly advanced and ever changing international distribution network that focuses on just-in-time supply chain management. And they're not afraid to think outside the box when it comes to arbitrage opportunities between various local demand needs." }, { "id": "t1_oltio73", "author": "/u/TraderFire89", "updated": "2026-05-14T19:34:26+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/oltio73/", "content": "I'm a solo entrepreneur who's startup services in the culinary arts space were acquired and integrated into a major multinational food distribution conglomerate\n Translation: I do doordash" }, { "id": "t1_olsxuig", "author": "/u/1-Dollar-Doge-Coins", "updated": "2026-05-14T17:57:48+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/olsxuig/", "content": "LinkedIn vibes" }, { "id": "t1_olu6nf7", "author": "/u/this_is_poorly_done", "updated": "2026-05-14T21:29:41+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/olu6nf7/", "content": "For what purpose would it serve to use scant veribage when a plethora of phonemes arranged in a predictable and culturally agreed upon manner are at our fingertips to utilize and manipulate, ultimately for a grander expression of sonically communicated ideas?\n Aka, why use few words when many words do trick?" }, { "id": "t1_olscyvc", "author": "/u/AgitatedAnybody4163", "updated": "2026-05-14T16:24:38+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/olscyvc/", "content": "This 👆" }, { "id": "t1_olsda1e", "author": "/u/Ok-Beyond-4200", "updated": "2026-05-14T16:26:00+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/olsda1e/", "content": "These are funny but true answers 😅" }, { "id": "t1_olse270", "author": "/u/AgitatedAnybody4163", "updated": "2026-05-14T16:29:31+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/olse270/", "content": "The thing is if people find out he has money everybody will be coming out of the woodwork like roaches. Buutt I hope for OPs sake all of his “financial advisors” aren’t going to 🔥 through his money. That’s the downside to this whole situation." }, { "id": "t1_olskzb9", "author": "/u/Banned3rdTimesaCharm", "updated": "2026-05-14T17:00:39+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/olskzb9/", "content": "I advise my client on fun and creative ways to spend their money." }, { "id": "t1_olsfqop", "author": "/u/Due-Category2159", "updated": "2026-05-14T16:37:10+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/olsfqop/", "content": "This kind of obfuscation is fine at a cocktail party with people you don't really care about building a relationship with.\n It's too deceptive for a potential romantic partner or even someone you want to build a real friendship with." }, { "id": "t1_olsgl6u", "author": "/u/Interesting_Shake403", "updated": "2026-05-14T16:40:58+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/olsgl6u/", "content": "Meh. Ok to start out this way. But after a month agreed OP should come clean." }, { "id": "t1_olst7gz", "author": "/u/alpacaMyToothbrush", "updated": "2026-05-14T17:37:28+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/olst7gz/", "content": "I always find this sort of answer disingenuous. I recommend people just look at their prior career, and skills. Would you do that in a freelance capacity if someone sought you out with an interesting project and made you an offer you couldn't refuse?\n There you go. You say I used to do x, but retired from corporate work to do x as a consultant because I wanted more control over my schedule. As the relationship develops, you can slowly disclose more as you build trust. 'I typically make make $retirementBudget a year, it's less than I made working for the man, but it's nice working for yourself'\n I think it's ok to talk about financial independence in vague terms, but I would leave discussion about net worth until you're at the point in the relationship where you're about to get engaged and you're drawing up a prenup." }, { "id": "t1_olt7bv7", "author": "/u/aspire-every-day", "updated": "2026-05-14T18:41:18+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/olt7bv7/", "content": "I really liked your answer about retiring from corporate work to do consulting to get more control over my schedule." }, { "id": "t1_olt6jba", "author": "/u/cj2dobso", "updated": "2026-05-14T18:37:39+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/olt6jba/", "content": "I manage a banana stand" }, { "id": "t1_oltgiwg", "author": "/u/ChaoticAmoebae", "updated": "2026-05-14T19:24:18+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/oltgiwg/", "content": "Ah you always got money" }, { "id": "t1_omfgdhn", "author": "/u/Vegetable_Panic9986", "updated": "2026-05-18T04:50:25+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/omfgdhn/", "content": "There's always money in the banana stand" }, { "id": "t1_ols7fjv", "author": "/u/142riemann", "updated": "2026-05-14T15:59:49+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/ols7fjv/", "content": "Underrated comment here. 🖕\n What gives meaning to your life? It doesn’t matter whether you’re monetizing it or doing it on a volunteer basis.\n For many FIRE folks, the ideal situation is not to sit around doing nothing productive all day. It’s to work part time doing something they love so much they would do for free." }, { "id": "t1_ols88h9", "author": "/u/Raiko47", "updated": "2026-05-14T16:03:27+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/ols88h9/", "content": "What's up with the middle finger lol" }, { "id": "t1_ols8i5b", "author": "/u/142riemann", "updated": "2026-05-14T16:04:41+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/ols8i5b/", "content": "Thought it was a pointer finger. But now I kinda like it. Haha" }, { "id": "t1_olseg7a", "author": "/u/ididitFIway", "updated": "2026-05-14T16:31:17+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/olseg7a/", "content": "We should adopt it as the hand gesture equivalent of "go fuck yourself" for when someone retires." }, { "id": "t1_olu6w7h", "author": "/u/CrashDriveMegaGig", "updated": "2026-05-14T21:30:54+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/olu6w7h/", "content": "I support it" }, { "id": "t1_olsz8vh", "author": "/u/HBRa3Cowboy", "updated": "2026-05-14T18:04:06+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/olsz8vh/", "content": "He has FU money now" }, { "id": "t1_oltgok2", "author": "/u/nishinoran", "updated": "2026-05-14T19:25:02+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/oltgok2/", "content": "Yeah, on some emoji keyboards it likes to suggest that one when you type "finger" and sometimes it can be hard to tell which "finger" is the one pointing." }, { "id": "t1_olsju24", "author": "/u/Megalocerus", "updated": "2026-05-14T16:55:33+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/olsju24/", "content": "I think it's a thumbs up." }, { "id": "t1_om1isdf", "author": "/u/Easy-Expert9077", "updated": "2026-05-15T23:38:09+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/om1isdf/", "content": ""Monetizing" works because its sounds like you toiled away in a corporate sarcophagus for a hitch, so you've earned your freedom.\n "I monetized e-deliverables by manipulating distribution nodes. Now its time for me to embrace life." Sounds reasonable and manipulating nodes sounds vaguely naughty." }, { "id": "t1_oltimi2", "author": "/u/Vivid_Calendar_5275", "updated": "2026-05-14T19:34:12+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/oltimi2/", "content": "Let's be honest though, when people ask "what do you do" they are usually not asking about your hobbies, and answering that way is going to look evasive (especially in a dating context). At some point if you want to get to know someone there's really no skirting around the fact that you don't work, so it's best to be direct about it. If people have a problem with it, you filter out those people early." }, { "id": "t1_oltsu4t", "author": "/u/Due-Category2159", "updated": "2026-05-14T20:22:27+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/oltsu4t/", "content": "You’d probably say “I live off my investment income but spend my time doing…” all in one breath" }, { "id": "t1_oluq7xz", "author": "/u/ShallotExcellente", "updated": "2026-05-14T23:16:04+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/oluq7xz/", "content": "I wouldn't even say that. I'd just say I was able to retire after x years doing y." }, { "id": "t1_olurkpy", "author": "/u/Sznake", "updated": "2026-05-14T23:23:47+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/olurkpy/", "content": "But its the "investment income" part hes's trying to avoid, unfortunately." }, { "id": "t1_olslyuk", "author": "/u/Weekly_Rutabaga_1742", "updated": "2026-05-14T17:05:04+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/olslyuk/", "content": "Executive Assistant. To my Wife." }, { "id": "t1_oltxvr0", "author": "/u/KittenaSmittena", "updated": "2026-05-14T20:46:37+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/oltxvr0/", "content": "If I encountered a man who said he’d be my executive assistant and we could fire, I’d be so in." }, { "id": "t1_om1j29m", "author": "/u/Easy-Expert9077", "updated": "2026-05-15T23:39:49+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/om1j29m/", "content": "Well if that's not a date killer then you might be in for an interesting ride." }, { "id": "t1_olrx2kn", "author": "/u/kaBUdl", "updated": "2026-05-14T15:13:35+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/olrx2kn/", "content": ""unemployed bum" has worked well for me" }, { "id": "t1_ols8g9w", "author": "/u/amtcannon", "updated": "2026-05-14T16:04:27+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/ols8g9w/", "content": "It strikes me that OP wants to signal to women that he’s financially viable, so if he says “I volunteer at the cat shelter” or whatever he actually fills his days with he won’t attract the sort of woman he wants to." }, { "id": "t1_olslat9", "author": "/u/imacat--", "updated": "2026-05-14T17:02:04+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/olslat9/", "content": "I mean... Does he really want to be with a woman like this? If someone told me they only did volunteer work, I would assume they had money somehow, and were choosing to use their time for good. This may be the best answer, but y'know, you have to actually volunteer." }, { "id": "t1_olt47wr", "author": "/u/Thin_Entrepreneur_98", "updated": "2026-05-14T18:26:54+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/olt47wr/", "content": "I (47F)would def not assume that. I work in finance and have dated more than I wanted to, many first dates that went nowhere, there are a lot of broke, can’t manage money or their lives, allergic to work, people out there. Men and women.\n Financial security means you can sleep at night. That they won’t get credit cards in your name. Rack up the line of credit without you knowing.\n A woman who doesn’t want financial security is a red flag. Her credit probably sucks and she’ll ruin yours too." }, { "id": "t1_oltk0hr", "author": "/u/imacat--", "updated": "2026-05-14T19:40:52+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/oltk0hr/", "content": "I mean, I (35F) agree but they're paying their bills somehow, right? Hearing they just volunteer would simply prompt me to ask more questions. I do not need my partner to have money, just stability, and that'll come across in how they answer. To be honest, all the people sidestepping the question with vague answers are more of a red flag to me." }, { "id": "t1_oltnscv", "author": "/u/Character_Raisin574", "updated": "2026-05-14T19:58:38+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/oltnscv/", "content": "Agree. I'd probably think you're just another professionally unemployed hobosexual if you told me you just "volunteer." Something as simple as a trust-fund could explain your financial independence." }, { "id": "t1_olud3nz", "author": "/u/amtcannon", "updated": "2026-05-14T22:02:41+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/olud3nz/", "content": "I’ve met trust fund hobosexuals" }, { "id": "t1_olurv9e", "author": "/u/imacat--", "updated": "2026-05-14T23:25:29+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/olurv9e/", "content": "Sure, there are selfish people of every wealth level. The thing is, someone who isn't financially stable will guaranteed be a burden. Some people are okay with that, some aren't. Someone who is financially stable may or may not be a burden." }, { "id": "t1_olv692m", "author": "/u/AssociationFit3009", "updated": "2026-05-15T00:50:10+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/olv692m/", "content": "Saying you have a trust fund is a terrible idea. The ratio of men looking for a meal ticket vs women is much lower. Inherited wealth is the lowest hanging fruit." }, { "id": "t1_oltlf0n", "author": "/u/iloveairportsushi", "updated": "2026-05-14T19:47:33+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/oltlf0n/", "content": "50F I agree. If he doesn’t have an answer for how he makes money I assume drug dealer or something sketchy. I’d bail immediately. If he’s unemployed, with money or not, I’d still bail because I want someone as strongly motivated to succeed as I am.\n I get he doesn’t need to work, but why doesn’t he want to work? That’s low motivation red flags to me.\n Now if he explains he’s doing philanthropic work (and actually does it) and inherited enough that he can devote time to helping others - that’s a green flag for me.\n Edited" }, { "id": "t1_olu9r82", "author": "/u/CrashDriveMegaGig", "updated": "2026-05-14T21:45:21+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/olu9r82/", "content": "I've worked since I was 14. I don't mind working at all, and have been doing just fine as a freelancer the past 3 years. I don't want to work right now because...well...I've worked for the past 23 years non-stop and it's kinda fucking nice to have some time to think about what's next. As for what's next, I plan to create a foundation to honor the relative who passed as well as volunteer my time." }, { "id": "t1_olufoqs", "author": "/u/amtcannon", "updated": "2026-05-14T22:16:42+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/olufoqs/", "content": "Then talk about those things and don’t sweat it friend. If you say true to yourself you’ll find the right person" }, { "id": "t1_olufwr3", "author": "/u/CrashDriveMegaGig", "updated": "2026-05-14T22:17:55+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/olufwr3/", "content": "You right, you right. Chronic over-thinker by nature." }, { "id": "t1_olv0idr", "author": "/u/exnooyorka", "updated": "2026-05-15T00:15:37+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/olv0idr/", "content": "When I was a little younger than you (33M) I took what is now called "mini retirement" for 18 months.\n Very similar backstory. Always had a job since I was 13, most of the time 40 hrs a week (nights/weekends at a corner store). Summer? Worked. Off time from college? Worked.\n When my job was sent to India and I had saved a fair bit, I felt I deserved some "me time".\n After 18 months I got back into the workforce and got super serious about saving.\n Just because one is not working at any specific point in time does not mean they are not success-minded.\n It may mean they understand how to balance their lives.\n I'm certain after being retired for a few years (target for me is 2030/2031 depending) I will end up taking a job of some sort, but it will be something fun that I could never afford to do as a younger person like working for a pro sports team.\n I'll also volunteer for good causes.\n I am happily married, but would not want anyone sizing me up for a subset of the choices I am making now that I am financially independent without first understanding the road I traveled to get there." }, { "id": "t1_olv4o8f", "author": "/u/CrashDriveMegaGig", "updated": "2026-05-15T00:40:38+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/olv4o8f/", "content": "Thank you for your story. And I agree with you. Balance is a big part of what I'm going for now. I also worked during college. I've never stopped working up until a couple months ago. Just by reading what you wrote, I think you sound very zen about life, and I think that's wonderful." }, { "id": "t1_olufz9d", "author": "/u/amtcannon", "updated": "2026-05-14T22:18:18+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/olufz9d/", "content": "Are you lost? This is the FIRE sub not the workaholics one. I’m hitting my number then retiring to pursue my hobbies, travel, and spend time with my family." }, { "id": "t1_olvnegq", "author": "/u/Lhasa-bark", "updated": "2026-05-15T02:33:42+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/olvnegq/", "content": "Yes thank you" }, { "id": "t1_olvre31", "author": "/u/rogrs4", "updated": "2026-05-15T03:00:04+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/olvre31/", "content": "I (44m) appreciate the question. I’ve got young kids, I’m hoping to fire in 3-4 years. Most are so tied to our identities as who we are professionally (I am not defending it). And I, being someone that will retire with a 7 year old and 5 other kids, and saying I’m retired, it offends Midwest sensibility. I’ll need some line of bullshit of what to say I do." }, { "id": "t1_olwbduc", "author": "/u/amtcannon", "updated": "2026-05-15T05:28:49+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/olwbduc/", "content": "I’ve been telling friends I’m semi-retired since hitting my coastFIRE number despite working five days a week still, soft launching the full retirement in a few years." }, { "id": "t1_oltnxrg", "author": "/u/buttface_fartpants", "updated": "2026-05-14T19:59:20+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/oltnxrg/", "content": "You sound like a miserable person to be with." }, { "id": "t1_oluseyf", "author": "/u/Sznake", "updated": "2026-05-14T23:28:30+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/oluseyf/", "content": "Ok, but if someone does'nt want to work, it could mean they're looking for that "thing". The special calling they've always wanted to do. It may not pay bills, but i always loved the idea of doing art for arts sake." }, { "id": "t1_omftiev", "author": "/u/Strazdas1", "updated": "2026-05-18T06:40:39+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/omftiev/", "content": "I get he doesn’t need to work, but why doesn’t he want to work? That’s low motivation red flags to me.\n If you want to work when you dont need to work thats a red flag of workaholism - an actual mental illness." }, { "id": "t1_olu6h22", "author": "/u/WilsonTree2112", "updated": "2026-05-14T21:28:48+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/olu6h22/", "content": "It’s awkward because an honest answer may require OP to provide some detail on their net worth, something almost no one does on dates." }, { "id": "t1_omftd8p", "author": "/u/Strazdas1", "updated": "2026-05-18T06:39:23+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/omftd8p/", "content": "Average american is 6000 dollars in CC debt. Paying bills somehow does not mean they arent drowning." }, { "id": "t1_oly7a5j", "author": "/u/Bruceshadow", "updated": "2026-05-15T13:48:25+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/oly7a5j/", "content": "A woman who doesn’t want financial security is a red flag.\n Couldn't it also mean she doesn't need it cause she is already secure?" }, { "id": "t1_oluqxih", "author": "/u/ElCidTx", "updated": "2026-05-14T23:20:08+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/oluqxih/", "content": "FYI, cat shelter chicks GET DOWN." }, { "id": "t1_oltiffx", "author": "/u/Chidling", "updated": "2026-05-14T19:33:16+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/oltiffx/", "content": "Depends on what car they drive and house they live in. I’ve done volunteer work almost half my life.\n 90% of volunteers are just average people. The only “rich people” doing volunteer work are like at charity benefits and such but even then, they’re not doing the actual work, they’re just the donors." }, { "id": "t1_oltkbyd", "author": "/u/imacat--", "updated": "2026-05-14T19:42:25+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/oltkbyd/", "content": "Right, but average people work. If he ONLY volunteers, I would question how he manages that. And what does his car and house have to do with that? One can live frugally while having a lot of money." }, { "id": "t1_olu9vp0", "author": "/u/CrashDriveMegaGig", "updated": "2026-05-14T21:46:00+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/olu9vp0/", "content": "My entire goal is to live frugally while having a lot of money lol" }, { "id": "t1_oly8yze", "author": "/u/Bruceshadow", "updated": "2026-05-15T13:56:51+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/oly8yze/", "content": "Depends on what car they drive and house they live in. I’ve done volunteer work almost half my life.\n a large chunk of people with nice cars and houses are in debt, living paycheck to paycheck. Not the type of people most would say are financially stable." }, { "id": "t1_olsjp2x", "author": "/u/abraxas1", "updated": "2026-05-14T16:54:54+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/olsjp2x/", "content": "So then it's an IQ test. "This guy can spend his time doing volunteer work, must be FI...." And if they can't make that jump, no loss." }, { "id": "t1_oltqoc4", "author": "/u/Busy_Resort_3262", "updated": "2026-05-14T20:12:15+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/oltqoc4/", "content": "That should not be the woman anybody wants to be with. That’s called called the gold digger." }, { "id": "t1_olrybry", "author": "/u/grownup_eel", "updated": "2026-05-14T15:19:17+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/olrybry/", "content": "I'm a fan of the term "trust fund baby"" }, { "id": "t1_ols9rsv", "author": "/u/howtoretireby40", "updated": "2026-05-14T16:10:25+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/ols9rsv/", "content": "self made trust fund baby" }, { "id": "t1_olsalgo", "author": "/u/Real-Artichoke-1780", "updated": "2026-05-14T16:14:05+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/olsalgo/", "content": "Murderer?" }, { "id": "t1_olsrf1g", "author": "/u/oalbrecht", "updated": "2026-05-14T17:29:29+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/olsrf1g/", "content": "😂" }, { "id": "t1_olsb7mv", "author": "/u/Walmart-Shopper-22", "updated": "2026-05-14T16:16:49+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/olsb7mv/", "content": ""trust fund middle-aged person"" }, { "id": "t1_olt6qsa", "author": "/u/Big_Midnight_6795", "updated": "2026-05-14T18:38:37+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/olt6qsa/", "content": "Trust fund daddy more like" }, { "id": "t1_ols8f8q", "author": "/u/Weary-Associate", "updated": "2026-05-14T16:04:19+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/ols8f8q/", "content": "I'm thinking about using "voluntarily unemployed"." }, { "id": "t1_olrx6ou", "author": "/u/stjarnalux", "updated": "2026-05-14T15:14:07+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/olrx6ou/", "content": "I tell people I manage portfolios. Which is true." }, { "id": "t1_olryd1s", "author": "/u/imtoooldforreddit", "updated": "2026-05-14T15:19:26+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/olryd1s/", "content": "I've heard a lot of people say that on this sub, but I honestly don't buy that there wouldn't be follow up questions to that.\n Wait, you're in finance now? What does that even mean? When did you completely switch careers? How did you get that role? What company do you do that for? What do you do in that job?\n Like, seriously, who are you people friends with that would just say "ok" to such a strange vague response?" }, { "id": "t1_olrzee4", "author": "/u/bob_ross_lives", "updated": "2026-05-14T15:24:07+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/olrzee4/", "content": "Exactly" }, { "id": "t1_ols0037", "author": "/u/HARCYB-throwaway", "updated": "2026-05-14T15:26:50+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/ols0037/", "content": "Where are y'all finding people who are so interested in your lives? My own ex wife barely knew what I did or could explain it. My dad can't name my employer and it's fucking IBM." }, { "id": "t1_ols10hg", "author": "/u/samster036", "updated": "2026-05-14T15:31:20+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/ols10hg/", "content": "Well that’s why she’s your ex wife." }, { "id": "t1_ols2bxe", "author": "/u/HARCYB-throwaway", "updated": "2026-05-14T15:37:14+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/ols2bxe/", "content": "Lol no I was fine with her lack of interest in my job. We shared other interests.\n It was the spiraling adderall addiction and alcoholism, that led to her violent outbursts and police interactions. She was hot, but after 10 years, turned out she was crazy too!" }, { "id": "t1_ols6wlg", "author": "/u/HairyBushies", "updated": "2026-05-14T15:57:28+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/ols6wlg/", "content": "Was her name Tiffany?\n https://youtu.be/bbpGkrViOcE?si=oqecyUBfm_nEmuvK" }, { "id": "t1_ols9d5w", "author": "/u/HARCYB-throwaway", "updated": "2026-05-14T16:08:35+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/ols9d5w/", "content": "Nah her name was Christina. And everyone we go she gets us thrown out constantly, but that's ok, cuz I know I know I know my baby would do anything for me!\n Christina, you wouldn't want to meet her. She hates you Britney so you better run for cover. My girls, a hot girl. A riot girl and she's angry at the world.\n -good charlotte" }, { "id": "t1_olsry16", "author": "/u/ReBoomAutardationism", "updated": "2026-05-14T17:31:50+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/olsry16/", "content": "Crazy in the bed, crazy in the head!" }, { "id": "t1_olskj9a", "author": "/u/DryInternet1895", "updated": "2026-05-14T16:58:41+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/olskj9a/", "content": "If the people around you aren’t interested in your life that’s a sorry state to be in. My dad was never the most present father but he can likely name most of the places I’ve worked during my career." }, { "id": "t1_olsuwg3", "author": "/u/Clueless5001", "updated": "2026-05-14T17:44:59+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/olsuwg3/", "content": "I am a very involved (female) parent. My kids are 20 somethings. My middle child I could always name because they worked for companies I have heard of like Cisco or whatever. The other two, I can tell you what industry they are in and have a sense of their role, but I cannot name either company if my life depended on it. I am not sure they ever even told me as why would I know the company? I spent the weekend helping one of those kids shop for their new apartment" }, { "id": "t1_olsjr72", "author": "/u/DudeWithTudeNotRude", "updated": "2026-05-14T16:55:11+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/olsjr72/", "content": "Exactly. As a statistician, it's rare to get more than a glassy eyed nod when I tell people what I do.\n If the conversation continues at all, it's usually about their experiences with freshmen stats in college or high school, and has quickly pivoted away from the question about my career. Or the rare cool person actually gets excited about what I do, and the convo goes swimmingly." }, { "id": "t1_olxuhrz", "author": "/u/itsacalamity", "updated": "2026-05-15T12:40:57+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/olxuhrz/", "content": "damn, all the people in this thread talking about their 'boring' jobs have jobs that sound frickin' fascinating to me, where were y'all when i was dating bums a few years ago?! a date talking stats sounds fun as hell (yes i am a nerd)" }, { "id": "t1_olufd3h", "author": "", "updated": "2026-05-14T22:14:54+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/olufd3h/", "content": "[deleted]" }, { "id": "t1_ols0awf", "author": "/u/StoneMenace", "updated": "2026-05-14T15:28:10+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/ols0awf/", "content": "I’m not in that situation yet but I’m an accountant and people know I love Money so it’s not to far off\n Saying something like “I’m a consultant who manages the financial portfolios for a few high net worth individuals (aka myself and my partner). I’m not making as much money as I used To but it gives me enough to survive on and a lot more free time. “\n If it’s for dating you do need to tell them the real truth earlier or else it’s going to turn into a fight. But what I said Would work perfectly fine for friends or family.\n If they start asking questions you can talk about your “dumb clients” where all you do is sit back and buy mutual funds and they are paying you to just sit around" }, { "id": "t1_olscw6i", "author": "/u/LifePlusTax", "updated": "2026-05-14T16:24:18+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/olscw6i/", "content": "I’m a CPA and when I tell people that 99% go immediately glassy eyes and never ask a single follow up question. 1% ask me a tax question and I just answer - sorry, that’s not the area of tax I work in. I not understand why OF workers tell people they’re accountants." }, { "id": "t1_olrzfoi", "author": "/u/Impossible-Pizza982", "updated": "2026-05-14T15:24:17+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/olrzfoi/", "content": "I have friends that would respect my desire to not go into detail. I also give them the same respect if they’re clearly responding with ambiguous answers." }, { "id": "t1_ols163s", "author": "/u/Healthy_Razzmatazz38", "updated": "2026-05-14T15:32:02+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/ols163s/", "content": "this seems really bad advice, if anyone ever actually engages you, you come across poorly.\n "I manage portfolios" oh cool what kind of work do you do "I put everything in voo" makes you come across as a liar." }, { "id": "t1_olscjjj", "author": "/u/nothatsmyarm", "updated": "2026-05-14T16:22:44+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/olscjjj/", "content": "It’s because you are, essentially, lying.\n It’s purposefully and intentionally misleading. If someone asks me if I’m single and I say “I don’t have a girlfriend,” but I have a wife, according to this logic, I have not lied. I don’t really understand how people think this would be the basis for a long-term and healthy relationship." }, { "id": "t1_olujteb", "author": "/u/Synaps4", "updated": "2026-05-14T22:39:50+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/olujteb/", "content": "Thats true but at the same time you cant tell a blind date circle of 30 people that youre loaded and you dont work because that isn't going to go well. So theres a dilemma and hence this discussion." }, { "id": "t1_ols3zmk", "author": "/u/gametapchunky", "updated": "2026-05-14T15:44:36+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/ols3zmk/", "content": "I tell people I sold my business and now oversee asset management for my family portfolio." }, { "id": "t1_olspd5l", "author": "/u/Catfactss", "updated": "2026-05-14T17:20:14+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/olspd5l/", "content": ""I'm an investor." "I trade stocks."" }, { "id": "t1_olrzelv", "author": "/u/Maleficent-Stuff-923", "updated": "2026-05-14T15:24:09+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/olrzelv/", "content": "you could say you work in investments or financial planning - technically not wrong since you probably have to manage your own money anyway" }, { "id": "t1_olsgud6", "author": "/u/energist52", "updated": "2026-05-14T16:42:07+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/olsgud6/", "content": "What an awesome description. I have been dreading the “I’m retired” answer. Thanks for giving me my new profession!" }, { "id": "t1_olryipa", "author": "/u/gwenreport", "updated": "2026-05-14T15:20:09+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/olryipa/", "content": "I’m a woman in similar situation (not inheritance but my own investments)… if I’m on a first date I tell guys I’m doing some consulting in between gigs and only tell them I’m actually FIRE if we start to feel somewhat consistent and on the path to serious. If I found out a guy I was dating was FIRE later I wouldn’t mind and totally understand" }, { "id": "t1_olsjkof", "author": "/u/Cmd3055", "updated": "2026-05-14T16:54:22+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/olsjkof/", "content": "This seems like a good balance. Giving enough to satisfy the initial getting to know you phase, with more later if the relationship warrants going further." }, { "id": "t1_ols83du", "author": "/u/Key-Explanation6128", "updated": "2026-05-14T16:02:48+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/ols83du/", "content": "interesting if there’s a fire minded individual you’re on a date with do you worry this may be too vague and convey a discordant financial message? earnestly asking" }, { "id": "t1_oltf5le", "author": "/u/gwenreport", "updated": "2026-05-14T19:17:50+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/oltf5le/", "content": "No bc I think it’s other things that reveal someone’s financial philosophy and not what they are doing in a certain period in their life. I’ve known people with consistent ambitious career/jobs and were a financial mess and someone who took breaks in between stretches of jobs that were financially strong!" }, { "id": "t1_olsrf8n", "author": "/u/Several_Priority_824", "updated": "2026-05-14T17:29:31+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/olsrf8n/", "content": "it's a first (or 2nd/3rd) date, it's not too vague" }, { "id": "t1_olrx5mj", "author": "/u/30pieces", "updated": "2026-05-14T15:13:59+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/olrx5mj/", "content": "Just start some really half assed online business" }, { "id": "t1_olryu8u", "author": "/u/Accomplished_Iron914", "updated": "2026-05-14T15:21:36+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/olryu8u/", "content": "“I give talk therapy to squirrels”" }, { "id": "t1_ols5yoe", "author": "/u/justaguy394", "updated": "2026-05-14T15:53:19+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/ols5yoe/", "content": "“People ask how that makes any money and I have word for them: volume”" }, { "id": "t1_oltxrac", "author": "/u/HumerousMoniker", "updated": "2026-05-14T20:46:01+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/oltxrac/", "content": "The profit margin is nuts!" }, { "id": "t1_ols686q", "author": "/u/Accomplished_Iron914", "updated": "2026-05-14T15:54:29+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/ols686q/", "content": "“Money isn’t everything, I do it out of love”" }, { "id": "t1_olthecj", "author": "/u/Armadillolz", "updated": "2026-05-14T19:28:23+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/olthecj/", "content": "He just keeps squirreling it away" }, { "id": "t1_olvxj84", "author": "/u/Less-Jellyfish5385", "updated": "2026-05-15T03:44:00+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/olvxj84/", "content": "There's some nutcases though" }, { "id": "t1_olyxoeu", "author": "/u/Qabalinho", "updated": "2026-05-15T15:52:17+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/olyxoeu/", "content": "Followed by, "My budget is 1.2 million."" }, { "id": "t1_ols0rek", "author": "/u/dogpoopfruitloops", "updated": "2026-05-14T15:30:13+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/ols0rek/", "content": ""I drop ship vietnamese kittens to podcast distributors in the mid south"" }, { "id": "t1_olrxjv9", "author": "/u/Ill_Savings_8338", "updated": "2026-05-14T15:15:47+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/olrxjv9/", "content": "You have an amazing job. Very flexible hours, good pay based on market performance and financial planning, fund management and tax calculations. Boss is kinda an arsehole but what can you do? Also can work from anywhere you choose." }, { "id": "t1_oltj4fy", "author": "/u/backyardnellie", "updated": "2026-05-14T19:36:35+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/oltj4fy/", "content": "If someone said this to me, my follow-up question would be, “Yeah, but what do you do?” 😅" }, { "id": "t1_oltn8ia", "author": "/u/RaisedSteaks", "updated": "2026-05-14T19:56:04+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/oltn8ia/", "content": ""Im in the adult entertainment industry. I just have to entertain myself"" }, { "id": "t1_olrxq4a", "author": "/u/Ok_Text2118", "updated": "2026-05-14T15:16:34+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/olrxq4a/", "content": "I would think saying “retired” best answers the “what do you do” question when it’s coming from an American and sometimes has undertones regarding status.\n If it’s more about genuine connection and conversation, I would focus on whatever thing you have been spending most of your free time on lately." }, { "id": "t1_ols8xur", "author": "/u/ArmyHotel338", "updated": "2026-05-14T16:06:39+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/ols8xur/", "content": "That will just cause more questions at his age." }, { "id": "t1_olslihv", "author": "/u/imacat--", "updated": "2026-05-14T17:03:02+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/olslihv/", "content": "The purpose of a first date is to ask questions anyway..." }, { "id": "t1_olu664a", "author": "/u/chikinn", "updated": "2026-05-14T21:27:17+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/olu664a/", "content": "Which questions matters." }, { "id": "t1_oltjj5j", "author": "/u/Judson_Scott", "updated": "2026-05-14T19:38:32+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/oltjj5j/", "content": "Who cares?" }, { "id": "t1_olxamit", "author": "/u/ArmyHotel338", "updated": "2026-05-15T10:33:24+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/olxamit/", "content": "I believe OP doesn't want to disclose that he doesn't work due to having a large trust fund.\n So I would say OP cares. Did you miss the Paragraphs and bullet points at the top of the page?" }, { "id": "t1_olrzqo1", "author": "/u/Shawn_NYC", "updated": "2026-05-14T15:25:39+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/olrzqo1/", "content": ""I'm taking a gap year that's turned into several gap years" is a funny one. You can keep it light and humorous." }, { "id": "t1_olstntw", "author": "/u/RecentState1347", "updated": "2026-05-14T17:39:27+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/olstntw/", "content": "I would be careful with this one, it makes sense in a fire context but outside of that it would sound like they had a health crisis/burnout or something.\n (As a woman who dates men, these “jokes” are almost always an attempt to put a positive spin on something bad vs actual self deprecating humor.)" }, { "id": "t1_oltl0wb", "author": "/u/perspicacioususa", "updated": "2026-05-14T19:45:43+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/oltl0wb/", "content": "Yeah, I agree with you. This one makes you look unappealing to a potential romantic partner (they're gonna assume you're unemployed longer than expected bc you can't find something, so you're probably bleeding money)." }, { "id": "t1_ols2645", "author": "/u/jhoward1211", "updated": "2026-05-14T15:36:31+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/ols2645/", "content": "Came to see if this was here. With the job market being wild, summer rolling up, I think this is a good temp answer at least. Especially for dating. Shows intent to progress to clear the "lazy guy" trope without going full "i retired at 40".\n Personally, I'm not in your shoes but close. Being FIRE minded a long time (thanks dad), at 39, coming off a wild work year, im currently 'self employed' but taking a Gap Year. Never did it fresh out of school and really worked a lot of time in my 20s and 30s. So, just telling ppl im doing a little side work but mostly taking a Gap Year until I find something i am passionate about.\n ...this may get extended but serves friends and dates well for now." }, { "id": "t1_olu4r4j", "author": "/u/sandspitter28", "updated": "2026-05-14T21:20:15+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/olu4r4j/", "content": "Even while travelling, I have met people in their 30’s that have said they are doing the gap year that they never had the opportunity to do in their 20’s. Most have joked about being able to travel more “comfortably” than they would have in their 20’s. Also, I spent some time living in China and ended up travelling through some expat circles in SEA a bit. Some spots are hubs for “foreigners that don’t work”, some have modest budgets, some more lavish. It sounds like OP wants to date women where he lives, but he really should consider going on a grand adventure." }, { "id": "t1_ols20gp", "author": "/u/ImprovementChoice", "updated": "2026-05-14T15:35:49+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/ols20gp/", "content": "Whatever your past job was, you freelance now." }, { "id": "t1_ols4qfq", "author": "/u/wildwalkerish", "updated": "2026-05-14T15:47:52+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/ols4qfq/", "content": "I’m a property manager, I only have 1 property, the house I own outright" }, { "id": "t1_ols7coq", "author": "/u/TonyTheEvil", "updated": "2026-05-14T15:59:28+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/ols7coq/", "content": "I really don't understand this community's aversion to being honest. Just say you're retired. If anyone reacts negatively from that, don't interact with them anymore." }, { "id": "t1_olsek85", "author": "/u/PolymerIdentiFIRE", "updated": "2026-05-14T16:31:48+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/olsek85/", "content": "For me it's less about someone reacting poorly and more about the money influencing their decision to keep seeing me. I agree with you that if they're jealous or bitter, they're a skip anyway, but what if they instead think I'm a means to an end? A way to achieve a lifestyle they want, and so they date me more for the money than any real feelings or compatibility?" }, { "id": "t1_olsj9k3", "author": "", "updated": "2026-05-14T16:52:58+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/olsj9k3/", "content": "[deleted]" }, { "id": "t1_oltul70", "author": "/u/evilcheesypoof", "updated": "2026-05-14T20:30:45+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/oltul70/", "content": "Yeah it’s okay to say you’re retired and you should follow that up with what interesting things you’re doing instead of working.\n If you’re just chillin’…it’s understandable to think someone might not find that interesting." }, { "id": "t1_ols501f", "author": "/u/Sane813", "updated": "2026-05-14T15:49:02+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/ols501f/", "content": "Tell them you sell Life Insurance. The conversation will mute itself." }, { "id": "t1_olssele", "author": "/u/poop-dolla", "updated": "2026-05-14T17:33:55+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/olssele/", "content": "That’s a good way to make smart people instantly dislike you. Unless you specify it’s only term life policies." }, { "id": "t1_ols4yba", "author": "/u/jbentley1023", "updated": "2026-05-14T15:48:49+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/ols4yba/", "content": "It's really not a hard answer in my view. You just be honest and say something along the lines of this:\n I made some really good financial decisions early in life that have set me up to not be forced to continue working a full time 8-5 job. Now I mostly focus on the hobbies and charitable volunteering work that brings me joy and fulfillment with my life. Then you can talk about those hobbies and things you do with your time.\n If someone gave me that answer I would totally understand and respect it." }, { "id": "t1_oluirjr", "author": "/u/fuckmylifegoddamn", "updated": "2026-05-14T22:33:56+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/oluirjr/", "content": "I mean that’s not honest though, he inherited 3 mil, that’s not a good financial decision that’s being a trust fund kid" }, { "id": "t1_oltv2wf", "author": "/u/TheLordofAskReddit", "updated": "2026-05-14T20:33:07+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/oltv2wf/", "content": "I would understand it and respect it too, until I found out it was a lie" }, { "id": "t1_ols7unh", "author": "/u/mmrocker13", "updated": "2026-05-14T16:01:42+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/ols7unh/", "content": "What DO you do all day? Just say that. Honestly, if someone was your age and I asked what they did, and they said "I'm retired, but I do some freelance gigs here and there to keep busy" or "Retired, haven't quite decided what I want to do next" I'd probably say, okay cool. I just would want to know that there was something in life that got you out of bed every day, and if so... what?" }, { "id": "t1_ols73lw", "author": "/u/Gravity-Rides", "updated": "2026-05-14T15:58:20+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/ols73lw/", "content": "It seems weirdly insecure to make up some bullshit, or say something that isn't even really half-way clever like "I'm a portfolio manager!"\n Just own it. You're unemployed and financially fully self sustaining without needing to earn income. No shame in any of that IMO." }, { "id": "t1_oluaihe", "author": "/u/CrashDriveMegaGig", "updated": "2026-05-14T21:49:13+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/oluaihe/", "content": "That's kind of how I feel about it. The more I read these comments, the more I'm leaning towards just owning it and owning that it's okay that I'm taking some time to figure out what's next. I'm an ambitious guy, but money was always the motivator. So this is a strange spot for me to be in." }, { "id": "t1_oluc4uw", "author": "/u/Gravity-Rides", "updated": "2026-05-14T21:57:36+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/oluc4uw/", "content": "If someone that retired early, weather it is via inheritance, frugality, lottery winner, cyrpto / options gambler, good planning, small business person or whatever, if the first impression they lay on me is some corn-ball shit about them being "a consultant" or "portfolio manager", it just screams douche-bag honestly. Either you are embarrassed about not having a job and feel good lying about it or you think I am some sort of dickhead that is going to start chiseling at you for money. Either way, I probably don't want to interact with you." }, { "id": "t1_olucgm0", "author": "/u/CrashDriveMegaGig", "updated": "2026-05-14T21:59:20+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/olucgm0/", "content": "I kind of agree with you. I think I'm leaning towards "taking some time to figure out my next step." And I can easily speak to my career over the past 13 years if need be." }, { "id": "t1_olucqoe", "author": "/u/Gravity-Rides", "updated": "2026-05-14T22:00:47+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/olucqoe/", "content": "Totally agree. It's honest and there is nothing wrong with that answer." }, { "id": "t1_olxvimg", "author": "/u/InnerDepth3171", "updated": "2026-05-15T12:46:35+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/olxvimg/", "content": "Yeah, it's this. Most of these answers are weird and honestly they wig me out a bit. You don't need to be like, oh hey I have 3mil so I'm all good. You just say that you're lucky enough to have a year or two of breathing space thanks to an inheritance, so you're taking some time and are super grateful to be financially free enough to do so.\n Then you can share more if/when it goes further and you like each other." }, { "id": "t1_olrxegw", "author": "/u/Faierstarta", "updated": "2026-05-14T15:15:06+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/olrxegw/", "content": "You manage your investment portfolio, so you do.. investment portfolio management. Simple." }, { "id": "t1_ols2a07", "author": "/u/cfrolik", "updated": "2026-05-14T15:37:00+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/ols2a07/", "content": "Make your hobbies be your identity instead of your job.\n Love to garden or do lawn maintenance? Bring that up when they ask.\n Spend a lot of time volunteering? Congrats, now you’re a social worker.\n Spend all your time sightseeing? You’re a “travel consultant“." }, { "id": "t1_olsn9vi", "author": "/u/MaintenanceSafe5444", "updated": "2026-05-14T17:10:55+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/olsn9vi/", "content": "I live off my investments. Done. You still sound rich, but more like you earned it. No need to be judged by people who don't understand your situation. Also, kudos for realizing 3m is never work again money used properly. You won't be out job hunting in your Lambo in 5 years." }, { "id": "t1_olrz27l", "author": "/u/RaspberryPavlova126", "updated": "2026-05-14T15:22:36+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/olrz27l/", "content": "I totally get it! I don’t even need to impress anyone romantically and I still feel awkward when this topic comes up…\n So how about answering with a question: “Have you heard about the FIRE movement?” and if they have - you say “well, I’m experimenting with that”. And if they haven’t - you shift focus away from what you do or don’t do and focus on financial education. Bonus points - it allows you to get a temp check on how your date feels about this whole thing." }, { "id": "t1_ols094d", "author": "/u/Cinderhazed15", "updated": "2026-05-14T15:27:57+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/ols094d/", "content": "Picturing you wearing a button ‘have you heard of FIRE ?’" }, { "id": "t1_ols4rnk", "author": "/u/RaspberryPavlova126", "updated": "2026-05-14T15:48:01+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/ols4rnk/", "content": "I know, I typed that and it was totally giving the “have you heard of our lord and savior …” 😂" }, { "id": "t1_ols7061", "author": "/u/Cinderhazed15", "updated": "2026-05-14T15:57:55+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/ols7061/", "content": "I was thinking more about Cobb in the Secret of Monkey Island - ‘Ask me about Loom’ - https://www.reddit.com/r/MonkeyIsland/s/lBupNib5lt" }, { "id": "t1_olsd2dh", "author": "/u/drloz5531201091", "updated": "2026-05-14T16:25:03+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/olsd2dh/", "content": "Telling the truth. Lying won't do you good on girls that will stick around for more than a few dates so why start a relationship on a lie?\n I'm retired and living off investments now. If any girl push you on how much or whatever you tell again the truth. Was living well before but since X died I have enough for keeping my current lifestyle without working so I'm putting more time enjoying my hobbies now.\n For one night stands by all means lie but outside of time truth will be better." }, { "id": "t1_olsw1yj", "author": "/u/LivinLaVidaListless", "updated": "2026-05-14T17:50:01+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/olsw1yj/", "content": "“I am retired and I freelance a few times a year.”\n “You’re 40”\n “I made a few right choices and I’m looking for the next thing that brings me fulfillment”" }, { "id": "t1_olrznsy", "author": "/u/CndnCowboy1975", "updated": "2026-05-14T15:25:18+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/olrznsy/", "content": "Congrats on being in the position you're in, first world problems eh ;) My two cents, don't discuss your money with anyone you're just dating - wait until it's a serious relationship. For now, you can just say you're taking some time off and weighing your options in the business world, or I think I saw someone say once "that they work in investments" or something like that, which is effectively true." }, { "id": "t1_olsdz0c", "author": "/u/StunningLynx8795", "updated": "2026-05-14T16:29:07+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/olsdz0c/", "content": "I just tell people I’m retired. I don’t mind being more confrontational though… if they demand answers on what I do for money I basically just say that’s my business and would like to keep it that way" }, { "id": "t1_olryggs", "author": "/u/LofiStarforge", "updated": "2026-05-14T15:19:52+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/olryggs/", "content": "How much of this is you wanting to do something?" }, { "id": "t1_ols82np", "author": "/u/teenagegumshoe", "updated": "2026-05-14T16:02:43+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/ols82np/", "content": "Some women value workplace ambition. So even if your bills are paid, they wouldn’t want to date someone who lives off an inheritance. Because of this, I don’t recommend fudging the truth by claiming to be a consultant or investment management or whatever.\n I would be honest, even though it feels weird. Say that you live off investments, that you budget to make this possible, and that you usually spend your days doing ‘xyz.’ The gold diggers are unlikely to stick around when they realize you don’t live a millionaire lifestyle." }, { "id": "t1_ols8gki", "author": "/u/ghazghaz", "updated": "2026-05-14T16:04:29+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/ols8gki/", "content": "Did you not have a job before you came into money? You should tell the truth and say you stopped working because you reached a point where you did not need to. Don’t have to tell where you got the money." }, { "id": "t1_olsjb27", "author": "/u/hung_like__podrick", "updated": "2026-05-14T16:53:10+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/olsjb27/", "content": "These posts will never not be weird to me. This would be the last thing on my mind if I was retired early" }, { "id": "t1_olu5dls", "author": "/u/CrashDriveMegaGig", "updated": "2026-05-14T21:23:21+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/olu5dls/", "content": "Well, when you're single and retire early, maybe you'll understand." }, { "id": "t1_olulutj", "author": "/u/hung_like__podrick", "updated": "2026-05-14T22:51:19+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/olulutj/", "content": "I have no problem telling people the truth" }, { "id": "t1_olvqddl", "author": "/u/Unhappy_Ad8694", "updated": "2026-05-15T02:52:54+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/olvqddl/", "content": "Well, I too, would probably be less concerned about women only being interested in my money if I had a magic cock" }, { "id": "t1_olshu0y", "author": "/u/Comfortable-Lynx8767", "updated": "2026-05-14T16:46:35+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/olshu0y/", "content": "Why not start a fun hobby-vibes business to keep you occupied?\n I'm sure you'll get bored of doing nothing eventually anyway" }, { "id": "t1_olslok1", "author": "/u/mleobviously", "updated": "2026-05-14T17:03:47+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/olslok1/", "content": "Just mention the career/industry you’ve been working in, and say that you’re between jobs at the moment, or that you’re taking a career break.\n These comments are weird.. please don’t pretend to have a job that you don’t have. That only works in the scenario that you’re never gonna speak to that person again, eg the person sitting beside you on a plane." }, { "id": "t1_ols1aou", "author": "/u/JLee50", "updated": "2026-05-14T15:32:37+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/ols1aou/", "content": "What do you do for fun? When I retire I will end up telling people I'm a photographer (true but I don't get paid), consultant (true and I do get paid, assuming I keep doing that), or whatever other hobby I'm into at the time that can generate revenue. E.g. when I'm not working full time I'll probably end up with a commercial drone license just because it'd be cool to have, so I could say I'm a commercial drone pilot and photographer." }, { "id": "t1_ols2ahc", "author": "/u/thecrookedtrail", "updated": "2026-05-14T15:37:03+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/ols2ahc/", "content": "I feel you. I recently left my career as well and have struggled with this too. I’ve landed on saying, “I’m taking a career break to work on some personal projects and help out my aging parents”. That’s all true and if they ask follow-up questions then I can dive into my volunteer work, creative pursuits, hobbies, etc. the trick for both this question, and for your overall well-being is to have interesting things you’re doing, ideally some of which that helps others or gives back in some way. What kind of hobbies do you have? Are you doing any volunteer work?" }, { "id": "t1_ols4o87", "author": "/u/Hello_202312", "updated": "2026-05-14T15:47:36+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/ols4o87/", "content": "I think the other concern the person dating you might have if you mention it is that you will squander it all and not have enough in retirement or the future. Also, if everyday she goes to work and you don’t there may also be some resentment. I don’t really have a good suggestion for what you should say you do cause starting off lying in a relationship is also not good. Do you not want to work? Do you have enough hobbies to keep you busy? Maybe find something you’re passionate about and do humanitarianism?" }, { "id": "t1_olsu6pg", "author": "/u/flying_unicorn", "updated": "2026-05-14T17:41:48+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/olsu6pg/", "content": "Retiring at 37, and still being in the dating pool yeah... Don't want gold diggers, but dont' want folks to think you're a bum... I would just say I'm a consultant/free-lancer for my old career if viable. If not, then some of the other ideas here.\n If you're in your 50s, retiring that early is a bit surprising, but not so much as to make people do a "WTF" like saying you're a retired 37 year old.\n I'm in an affulent area i know a lot of "trust fund babies", there is a reason it's a perjorative. They're not all bad, but most of them are incredibly naive and self important twats." }, { "id": "t1_olux32f", "author": "/u/BothNotice7035", "updated": "2026-05-14T23:55:10+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/olux32f/", "content": "You work for the The Human Fund." }, { "id": "t1_olrzc4k", "author": "/u/hogan_tyrone", "updated": "2026-05-14T15:23:50+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/olrzc4k/", "content": "As far as the question about answering the question when dating, I’d think “retired” might be best word for those scenarios. It’s an honest answer without being deceptive, and an actual potential partner wouldn’t be totally turned off an overt vagueness.\n I would imagine saying something like “well I used to be in x industry, but I’m retired now and love to [insert all the personal activities/hobbies you do].” If things progress with relationship, you can naturally reveal the specifics of your scenario." }, { "id": "t1_ols3nos", "author": "/u/bunkerbee_hill", "updated": "2026-05-14T15:43:08+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/ols3nos/", "content": "Tell them you retire or manage your investments. People will tell you how lucky you are. Smile and say yes thanks. That is it." }, { "id": "t1_ols4ymm", "author": "/u/cheeseburghers", "updated": "2026-05-14T15:48:52+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/ols4ymm/", "content": "Honest question, what do you do every day all day?\n Do you volunteer, are you into working out, cooking, home improvement?" }, { "id": "t1_ols9gmm", "author": "/u/Ok-Guidance-2791", "updated": "2026-05-14T16:09:01+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/ols9gmm/", "content": "tell them you’re a writer. you wrote this Reddit post so it’s not lying." }, { "id": "t1_olslgca", "author": "/u/groundhogcow", "updated": "2026-05-14T17:02:46+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/olslgca/", "content": "Make up a cool story\n Your dad left you a fish bait business. Only it's way harder than you might imagine because it takes a constant infusion of fertilizer. You are constantly taking it on, processing it through the worms and shipping it out. It also works best by gender and the worms grow way faster from male cattle. It's a fairly unique job but you are happy moving bull shit around until you feed the fishes." }, { "id": "t1_olsmjq5", "author": "/u/-Generativity-", "updated": "2026-05-14T17:07:41+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/olsmjq5/", "content": "Unemployed and wait for reaction. I typically would say I have either graduated out of my profession or that I am an investor. To me, I don’t like the sound of the word retired. Personal preference." }, { "id": "t1_oltnza8", "author": "/u/zerkeras", "updated": "2026-05-14T19:59:32+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/oltnza8/", "content": "Most people would typically consider “Unemployed” a bad thing. If a girl on a date told me that, I’d assume it means she’s broke, and quite possibly lives with parents still. And as someone pursuing FIRE that’s not what I look for in a partner.\n Using “Retired” as other issues as you point out. I wouldn’t make it as final as that. Personally, I’d probably just “I’m financially independent and focus on my hobbies, consulting and other entrpreneurial work”.\n It doesn’t come off as “weird” that you’re retired so young, and also doesn’t give the wrong impression about your financial viability as a life partner." }, { "id": "t1_olsmld4", "author": "/u/Frequent_Ice6516", "updated": "2026-05-14T17:07:54+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/olsmld4/", "content": "Uber driver told me he was a day trader and drove to fill his free time. I didn’t get the impression he was a very successful day trader based on the conversation. I would go with that." }, { "id": "t1_oluh95w", "author": "/u/BKLYNguy166", "updated": "2026-05-14T22:25:23+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/oluh95w/", "content": "You are a portfolio manager….its your own portfolio🤣!" }, { "id": "t1_olvkzj9", "author": "/u/SardukarFinance", "updated": "2026-05-15T02:18:42+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/olvkzj9/", "content": "So many people in this thread with clever lies. Makes me a little uncomfortable personally.\n What do you actually do now that you’re retired?\n I’m personally (not retired yet) but in the camp that I’ll always work on something. Accomplishment is one of the core pillars of human fulfillment. So, even if I don’t work a 9-5, I’ll have some passion project I could talk about, I’d think.\n So, what do you do with your days? Are you working towards anything? Building anything fulfilling? Passion projects?" }, { "id": "t1_olvtg11", "author": "/u/GreatWhiteNorth71", "updated": "2026-05-15T03:15:20+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/olvtg11/", "content": "You manage a 7 figure wealth management private consultant firm." }, { "id": "t1_olxq2ya", "author": "/u/Weary-Activity-6506", "updated": "2026-05-15T12:15:23+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/olxq2ya/", "content": "Definitely tell people import/export" }, { "id": "t1_olrxthk", "author": "/u/DekuTreePower", "updated": "2026-05-14T15:17:00+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/olrxthk/", "content": "Philanthropist? If it were me I’d keep busy volunteering and I’d be on a bunch of boards." }, { "id": "t1_olry3mm", "author": "/u/VT_Squire", "updated": "2026-05-14T15:18:16+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/olry3mm/", "content": "Game shows used to just call people day-traders." }, { "id": "t1_ols062x", "author": "/u/PegShop", "updated": "2026-05-14T15:27:35+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/ols062x/", "content": "“I’m in investments.”\n When you’re really solid in a relationship, you can share exactly what that means" }, { "id": "t1_ols072m", "author": "/u/onajourney314", "updated": "2026-05-14T15:27:42+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/ols072m/", "content": "Wealth management" }, { "id": "t1_ols08mc", "author": "/u/DreamTheaterGuy", "updated": "2026-05-14T15:27:54+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/ols08mc/", "content": "Just say you are retired." }, { "id": "t1_ols0l3b", "author": "/u/GumpTheChump", "updated": "2026-05-14T15:29:26+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/ols0l3b/", "content": ""I am an investor and consultant."" }, { "id": "t1_ols0mf8", "author": "/u/samster036", "updated": "2026-05-14T15:29:36+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/ols0mf8/", "content": "Just tell them you are an investors. Pretty simple lol" }, { "id": "t1_ols1q1v", "author": "/u/PoorhouseDog", "updated": "2026-05-14T15:34:31+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/ols1q1v/", "content": "The trust funders I know all have some kind of "job" they claim to do. Some have a small business they run that doesn't have employees or actually do any work. Some are "artists." The portfolio manager thing would work. If there are follow up questions the answer is you manage your own portfolio.\n With any of those things the listener is going to be able to connect the dots that the person doesn't have to work to survive." }, { "id": "t1_olsbr75", "author": "/u/CountryMaleficent439", "updated": "2026-05-14T16:19:13+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/olsbr75/", "content": "Real estate agents or interior designer are occupations that some trust fund types use in name only. One neighbor used the "artist" line and got confused/offended when I asked what her medium was. She said something about her life being art. She walked away and never talked to me again. My husband is an artist, so I was asking out of a true interest. My husband later told me that he had asked to see her work (we were at a party at her house) and he said she acted like he asked her to have sex. Maybe she was just an insecure artist but If one is going to run around claiming an occupation they should be prepared for simple inquiries like that. I later learned that yes, her family was living off a trust fund. A lot of people where I live do.\n I don't really blame them for doing it. People don't like to hear that you don't work and can ask very rude questions. That kind of conversation can get uncomfortable and to me boring. I say that I am retired (because I am) but that did lead to confusion by some since I was about 30 years old when I "retired." After reading this thread, If I were to do it all over again, I might say property management or that I manage a small family portfolio both of which are true and would have satisfied peoples curiosity enough so we could move onto more interesting topics." }, { "id": "t1_ols2qc3", "author": "/u/TooMuchButtHair", "updated": "2026-05-14T15:39:02+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/ols2qc3/", "content": ""Asset management"." }, { "id": "t1_ols2sz7", "author": "/u/Few_Dragonfly3000", "updated": "2026-05-14T15:39:21+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/ols2sz7/", "content": "Youre a philosopher." }, { "id": "t1_ols3ilf", "author": "/u/ResponsibleSail5802", "updated": "2026-05-14T15:42:31+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/ols3ilf/", "content": "I have a similar situation and I usually say property manager because portfolios ARE 'property' right? Definitely diversify into real property these days, my friend! 😉 The problem is people will ask for money -- and then recently I got someone asking me to manage their finances for them- oh no.\n My tax returns say "Investor" so occaisionally I will say that. I recently did invest $10,000 in a friend's business and now it's fun to do weird market research for her or help with my opinion on her designs and marketing- so I'd say that's worth it to do. She did submit to me the best business plan I've ever seen so it's not like it's some Etsy shop.\n It does sound ick to say you're a Nepo baby- people HATE that-- it's a little sad. Get into volunteering or hobbies- Boys and Girls Club or Big Brothers and music will take up all your time and money and you will meet a lot of cool people." }, { "id": "t1_ols4neg", "author": "/u/bingbang71", "updated": "2026-05-14T15:47:30+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/ols4neg/", "content": "say you're back in school. if you reach the point where you really should talk about finances, as in before moving in together/ getting married/ having kids, you should be truthful." }, { "id": "t1_ols6rcp", "author": "/u/tarkovsky-esque", "updated": "2026-05-14T15:56:50+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/ols6rcp/", "content": "Be honest and tell them you’re a lucky trust fund baby who doesn’t contribute to society. Or is the truth embarrassing?" }, { "id": "t1_ols6xu7", "author": "/u/Mouth_Herpes", "updated": "2026-05-14T15:57:38+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/ols6xu7/", "content": "I manage a small family office." }, { "id": "t1_ols6zuo", "author": "/u/dwolven", "updated": "2026-05-14T15:57:52+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/ols6zuo/", "content": "“Freelance investor”. If you want to make it more complicated include some keywords. like “I used to be working in x I quit and now since y years I am a freelance investor working on stocks and options in nasdaq and funds occasionally (order can change) depends on the market conditions.\n Or find a part time job related to your hobbies and tell that in the future." }, { "id": "t1_ols7p9n", "author": "/u/Fun_Desk_4916", "updated": "2026-05-14T16:01:02+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/ols7p9n/", "content": "There are so many people who live off family money - I met a lot in places like NYC and LA. They basically have 'jobs' that you know aren't actually paying for their lifestyle. But it gives them some purpose every day., and frankly an identity when they meet people. They're aspiring writers, political organizers, artists, non-profit workers, freelance whatevers, etc.\n So when they ask what you "do" you should have some kind of hobby or passion you can point to. Bc otherwise, what the heck are you doing all day with your time? Just because you're FIRE doesn't mean you're sitting on the sofa day in day out." }, { "id": "t1_ols9bau", "author": "/u/banestraitelbov", "updated": "2026-05-14T16:08:21+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/ols9bau/", "content": "Private finance/portfolio manager. They don't have to know you are your only client." }, { "id": "t1_ols9c7c", "author": "/u/crookedledder", "updated": "2026-05-14T16:08:27+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/ols9c7c/", "content": "You are clearly an 'investor'." }, { "id": "t1_ols9n69", "author": "/u/believehype1616", "updated": "2026-05-14T16:09:50+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/ols9n69/", "content": "So... What do you actually do?\n Getting retired and not working a steady job is great. But what are you doing with that same quantity of time now?\n There may not be a perfect answer from that, but it's relevant." }, { "id": "t1_ols9w5g", "author": "/u/RandyBoBandy636", "updated": "2026-05-14T16:10:57+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/ols9w5g/", "content": "Lean in to your hobbies. I’ve spent the first year of early retirement redoing a bunch of stuff on my house and building additions. I’d say it’s a hobby, and I don’t have a problem saying I work in residential construction. That or “I work in private equity”" }, { "id": "t1_olsaozz", "author": "/u/chaoscorgi", "updated": "2026-05-14T16:14:31+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/olsaozz/", "content": "i'm planning to be "an artist" :)" }, { "id": "t1_olse9oc", "author": "/u/Wise-Jackfruit8199", "updated": "2026-05-14T16:30:28+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/olse9oc/", "content": "I thought the traditional answer was “I’m working on a screenplay” But maybe that is only appropriate at some other place and time." }, { "id": "t1_olsi5us", "author": "/u/cmkw5", "updated": "2026-05-14T16:48:03+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/olsi5us/", "content": "I'd say sth like "I'm in between jobs now, at first I thought I'd get sth new soon but now it's been several months already, I put enough to the side to keep it going for a few more months or even years if need be". That answers that you're not a bum, you're self sustained, you're good with money, you're organized but also you take risks and value living life. So it takes off most of the red flags.\n But then I wouldn't linger on that topic but direct the conversation into your hobbies and values and what you wanna do with your life and ask the same of her.\n I'm very into this and that, currently I spend my days learning about this and that, how about you, if you had enough to sustain yourself for a few months what would you do? Would you learn sth new and if so what, would you travel? Would you learn a language...\n Now instead of that being an awkward moment, you've shifted into asking her about her dreams and aspirations and that's probably really what you want to get out of it... Plus, it's good emotions..." }, { "id": "t1_olsme75", "author": "/u/jd732", "updated": "2026-05-14T17:06:59+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/olsme75/", "content": "“With everything going on these days, I decided to take some time off, spend some of my savings, and reassess my career goals”." }, { "id": "t1_olsmnt8", "author": "/u/djhh33", "updated": "2026-05-14T17:08:12+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/olsmnt8/", "content": "“I have many irons in the fire”\n But in reality I’d just say that I had some success in the markets and decided it was time to take a sabbatical for a while. Might go back, might not." }, { "id": "t1_olsnb50", "author": "/u/Darth_Rummy", "updated": "2026-05-14T17:11:05+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/olsnb50/", "content": "I'm a man of leisure..." }, { "id": "t1_olso97l", "author": "/u/Swollenpajamas", "updated": "2026-05-14T17:15:17+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/olso97l/", "content": "‘I do consulting. It’s pretty boring though, but I make my own hours and can work from home.’" }, { "id": "t1_olsoa6i", "author": "/u/Chicken121260", "updated": "2026-05-14T17:15:24+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/olsoa6i/", "content": "Deferring: I’m exploring my options. I’m taking a break. I’m looking for my next career/opportunity. This and that\n Honest: I’m retired.\n Humorous (give a different answer every time!) I’m a car burglar. Professional bum Studying to become a hobo Training for the NFL combine\n No need to truly answer the question. Also if you are dating, you don’t want a gold digger to realize you have money." }, { "id": "t1_olsptis", "author": "/u/Mikey54010", "updated": "2026-05-14T17:22:21+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/olsptis/", "content": "Tell people you are a day trader, problem solved" }, { "id": "t1_olsq89t", "author": "/u/gnorpmcpickel", "updated": "2026-05-14T17:24:13+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/olsq89t/", "content": "Just tell them what you enjoy doing. That's a trick I use at cocktail parties so that people relax and stop putting on their masks." }, { "id": "t1_olstj2g", "author": "/u/Canuck_fuk", "updated": "2026-05-14T17:38:52+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/olstj2g/", "content": "“In in between jobs trying to figure out what I’d like to do next”" }, { "id": "t1_olsu8px", "author": "/u/Zesty-B230F", "updated": "2026-05-14T17:42:03+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/olsu8px/", "content": "Correct, you shouldn't lie. Tell people what you do, but put "professional" in front of it. "I'm a professional artist..." or "I'm a professional traveler..." It would be up to them to then act weird or not." }, { "id": "t1_olt3dt7", "author": "/u/centar", "updated": "2026-05-14T18:23:03+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/olt3dt7/", "content": "If I had the money, I would just start a business centered around whatever it is I’m planning on spending my time on. As long as it isn’t losing money I wouldn’t really be concerned about how profitable it is, just something to keep you busy on your own terms. Doesn’t even have to be something you do every day, you could start a luxury boat resale business and just fly around the world test driving mega yachts. This is where imagination is important." }, { "id": "t1_olt7nce", "author": "/u/skinnyneedles", "updated": "2026-05-14T18:42:47+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/olt7nce/", "content": "Private wealth management. They don’t need to know it’s your wealth you’re managing. LOL!" }, { "id": "t1_oltcgza", "author": "/u/Internal_Life1703", "updated": "2026-05-14T19:05:09+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/oltcgza/", "content": "You are a writer - just publish a few articles online for free." }, { "id": "t1_oltcyfn", "author": "/u/Oddly-Specific-Point", "updated": "2026-05-14T19:07:27+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/oltcyfn/", "content": "Volunteering is your solution" }, { "id": "t1_oltdarn", "author": "/u/_Mulberry__", "updated": "2026-05-14T19:09:04+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/oltdarn/", "content": "Step 1: get a hobby doing something creative or that can be easily monetized. Blacksmithing, woodworking, painting, beekeeping, etc.\n Step 2: scale the hobby(ies) to the point that they take up a decent chunk of your time and maybe even produce a tiny profit.\n Step 3: Go back to dating. Tell your date(s) that you're a (insert hobby title here). It'll be something you can talk passionately about during a date, and passion is highly attractive." }, { "id": "t1_oltdw31", "author": "/u/Trilobyte83", "updated": "2026-05-14T19:11:52+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/oltdw31/", "content": "Not to be trite, but what do you do?\n You can’t just play with yourself all day. You need to FIRE * to * something.\n I volunteer a lot, would a couple days a week in a bike shop. Travel when the urge strikes.\n I was an engineer in my old life, and still help out with projects, so I just say engineer and change the subject, or play up what I did years ago ft, into what I do now a few days a month.\n If they dig, feel free to elaborate, but usually when you’re asked I find it’s a segue so that they can tell you about what they do." }, { "id": "t1_olteam0", "author": "/u/PictureBrick", "updated": "2026-05-14T19:13:46+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/olteam0/", "content": "I tell people I’m a stay-at-home dad. Nobody seems to question it." }, { "id": "t1_oltgfbq", "author": "/u/ChaoticAmoebae", "updated": "2026-05-14T19:23:49+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/oltgfbq/", "content": "Investor*. Because if you are living of money in the stock market that is what you do. Then shift to it affords you the luxury to focus time on, insert hobbies and volunteering work. Bonus point if you keep tidy and can cook. The biggest concern with someone not working is it associated with they have to pocket up slack. It is important that you can show (more than tell) that you are fiscally responsible, emotionally competent, and mentally stable." }, { "id": "t1_oltgrtd", "author": "/u/mhoepfin", "updated": "2026-05-14T19:25:28+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/oltgrtd/", "content": "“Taking some time off”, “work for myself”, “working on some startup stuff I can’t really discuss”, etc.\n I retired at 50 and honestly very few people were interested in hearing about it because I think most people are jealous. Now I just tell people retired but heavily focused on investing. This may lead to some talk of strategies and things I am actually interested in." }, { "id": "t1_oltti1c", "author": "/u/RedHeadedMenace", "updated": "2026-05-14T20:25:36+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/oltti1c/", "content": "I don't think you need to say "Living off inheritance." If you'd had a ton of debts and an expensive house, you WOULDN'T be living off inheritance. It's because of savvy financial choices and frugal living earlier in life that you're in this position as much as because of the inheritance. If you want to downplay the inheritance aspect, I think it would be fair to say:\n "I was frugal early in my career, and now I live off my investments, and get to do what I want, which is currently INSERT_CURRENT_HOBBY_HERE." If that turns new people off without further questions, they are not very curious, and I'd personally be glad I filtered them out early.\n If they ARE curious and ask more questions, you can definitely say "I'm happy to tell you more about it once we get to know each other a little better." and if THAT puts people off, I again think you've filtered out anyone who lacks patience or respect for your privacy.\n Personally, I view people self selecting to exit my life because of their own hangups as a feature, not a bug. Just my two cents though!" }, { "id": "t1_oltx87v", "author": "/u/mrwagon1", "updated": "2026-05-14T20:43:26+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/oltx87v/", "content": "Say you're an "investor"" }, { "id": "t1_oltz8pq", "author": "/u/Illbringthewater", "updated": "2026-05-14T20:53:17+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/oltz8pq/", "content": "Waste Management Consultant is the only right answer!" }, { "id": "t1_oltzvep", "author": "/u/BubbaMcCranky", "updated": "2026-05-14T20:56:19+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/oltzvep/", "content": "“I’m in investment management”" }, { "id": "t1_olu0eda", "author": "/u/Neat-Dragonfly-2032", "updated": "2026-05-14T20:58:53+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/olu0eda/", "content": "Investment management\n It's nebulous but technically accurate and also makes sense to anyone who is wondering how you can afford to do different things. And will keeping the term rooted in some truth at some point if you have a partner who you decide to share the truth with they are less likely to feel like you lied about what you do, which even if they understand and accept why can create some distrust issues." }, { "id": "t1_olu9fyk", "author": "/u/figsslave", "updated": "2026-05-14T21:43:47+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/olu9fyk/", "content": "A client told me her husband was a private investor.Its vague enough to mean anything" }, { "id": "t1_olucyt9", "author": "/u/CrashDriveMegaGig", "updated": "2026-05-14T22:01:58+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/olucyt9/", "content": "Technically, I am a private investor. I "own" stocks in the companies I invest in." }, { "id": "t1_olukopb", "author": "/u/Crafty-Bass-3434", "updated": "2026-05-14T22:44:43+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/olukopb/", "content": "Tell them you go by "Big James" on Onlyfans and your tagline is "they don't call me "Big James" because I am tall."" }, { "id": "t1_olunwjz", "author": "/u/Accomplished-Pin9515", "updated": "2026-05-14T23:02:56+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/olunwjz/", "content": "I tell them I’m on sabbatical. Rarely do I get a follow where I tell them it’s been 12 yrs long." }, { "id": "t1_olv2by0", "author": "/u/quietpewpews", "updated": "2026-05-15T00:26:31+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/olv2by0/", "content": ""I manage money"" }, { "id": "t1_olv8mle", "author": "/u/Humble_Wheel_3909", "updated": "2026-05-15T01:04:18+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/olv8mle/", "content": "Say your architect- and change your name to Art Van Delay" }, { "id": "t1_olvjizh", "author": "/u/alex_korr", "updated": "2026-05-15T02:09:48+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/olvjizh/", "content": "Just don't marry a woman who's gonna make you poorer. Happens to a friend of mine who waited til 45 to get married and by the time he was 49 he lost half of his money. Put your money in a trust and carve out trust holdings via a prenup." }, { "id": "t1_olvoaty", "author": "/u/TomatoWitty4170", "updated": "2026-05-15T02:39:23+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/olvoaty/", "content": "I’m low maintenance and easy going - send me a message :) congrats to you." }, { "id": "t1_olvp7tu", "author": "/u/FormCheck655321", "updated": "2026-05-15T02:45:16+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/olvp7tu/", "content": "Hurry up and have kids, then you can truthfully say you’re a full time dad! 👍😀" }, { "id": "t1_olxr8su", "author": "/u/WombatMcGeez", "updated": "2026-05-15T12:22:11+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/olxr8su/", "content": "Tell them you’re working on a novel." }, { "id": "t1_olzalkp", "author": "/u/zoooooger", "updated": "2026-05-15T16:52:15+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/olzalkp/", "content": "I would say I'm unemployed" }, { "id": "t1_olrxsp4", "author": "/u/leathakkor", "updated": "2026-05-14T15:16:54+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/olrxsp4/", "content": "I'm an entrepreneur.\n For me since I'm in software I would say something like I'm working on starting my own business but I'm not taking it too seriously right now I'm still waiting for my business partner to quit their job so we can start marketing.\n If you make it boring enough, people won't ask questions." }, { "id": "t1_olrxsuo", "author": "/u/Captain_Lou_Albano", "updated": "2026-05-14T15:16:56+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/olrxsuo/", "content": "Tell them you manage equities for a private family fund. They don't have to know it's your family..." }, { "id": "t1_olrxvm4", "author": "/u/Slight_Bet660", "updated": "2026-05-14T15:17:16+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/olrxvm4/", "content": "Just state that you are a self-employed investor and know enough about your own investments to be able to answer follow-up questions. If you hold real estate as part of your portfolio, then you can also state you are in real estate. Neither would be lying, but it’s better than saying you are unemployed." }, { "id": "t1_olry2wc", "author": "/u/P4RZiV0L", "updated": "2026-05-14T15:18:11+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/olry2wc/", "content": ""I manage a small wealth fund"\n if you didn't work in this sector or anything closely related to it, and close friends/family would likely be like "???", you can then say\n "i've been pivoting into something I enjoy for some time and now I have a career in small wealth fund management"" }, { "id": "t1_olrybi5", "author": "/u/b1gb0n312", "updated": "2026-05-14T15:19:15+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/olrybi5/", "content": "Internet research analyst" }, { "id": "t1_olrzyf6", "author": "/u/Professional_Fix4663", "updated": "2026-05-14T15:26:37+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/olrzyf6/", "content": ""Entrepreneur."" }, { "id": "t1_ols1ti2", "author": "/u/FreeandFurious", "updated": "2026-05-14T15:34:56+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/ols1ti2/", "content": "Day trader" }, { "id": "t1_ols1u8g", "author": "/u/Potential_Factor_570", "updated": "2026-05-14T15:35:02+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/ols1u8g/", "content": "My go to response will be " wilderness duck park feeder."" }, { "id": "t1_ols2h4e", "author": "/u/Bck2BckAAUNatlChamps", "updated": "2026-05-14T15:37:53+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/ols2h4e/", "content": "What did you do? Some version of “manage investments” is always a good accurate but vague option, but maybe isn’t ideal if you were previously a plumber. I’d try to find something that fits into your background / degree / certificates so it doesn’t illicit questions." }, { "id": "t1_ols2pj6", "author": "/u/ockaners", "updated": "2026-05-14T15:38:56+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/ols2pj6/", "content": "Good answers but frankly I find it boring to talk about work. I usually don't ask them about it and I usually don't volunteer it myself. I'd rather hear about interests, dreams and goals." }, { "id": "t1_ols4uxb", "author": "/u/soyeahiknow", "updated": "2026-05-14T15:48:25+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/ols4uxb/", "content": "Overseas work" }, { "id": "t1_ols5dsf", "author": "/u/Common_Emotion9796", "updated": "2026-05-14T15:50:43+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/ols5dsf/", "content": "When I'm on vacation and someone asks what I do but I don't want to talk about it, I always say I'm in Fractal Biology. Ends the follow questions and changes the subject all at once. Don't worry about not knowing any details about what Fractal Biology is, no one else does either" }, { "id": "t1_ols5iyk", "author": "/u/sweet_tea_pdx", "updated": "2026-05-14T15:51:22+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/ols5iyk/", "content": "Manage the family office" }, { "id": "t1_ols5q93", "author": "/u/chezterr", "updated": "2026-05-14T15:52:16+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/ols5q93/", "content": "I'm prepared to tell people I'm a financial consultant.... I'll be older then.. 55+ when I retire, much older than you are now... so my fib might actually be believable? I dunno...\n I do also plan to have a small business or two... so I could tell a truth, and say I'm a small business owner, entrepreneur or small business investor...." }, { "id": "t1_olsqy21", "author": "/u/cashewkowl", "updated": "2026-05-14T17:27:25+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/olsqy21/", "content": "At 55, do you really have to fib? At that point, why not just say you’re retired? People you are just meeting might just think you age well." }, { "id": "t1_ols68en", "author": "/u/ouncez", "updated": "2026-05-14T15:54:31+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/ols68en/", "content": "What do you do from when you wake up in the morning to evening?" }, { "id": "t1_ols6ccl", "author": "/u/Sad-Committee-4902", "updated": "2026-05-14T15:55:00+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/ols6ccl/", "content": ""I'm retired from ______. Its an ageist industry so Im unhireable even at my relatively young age, but it allowed me to make enough giving myself room to take a break for a while to figure out what the next phase of my life is going to be."\n "I'm a freelance _____. At this stage, I have to be selective about the projects I take on. So if you see me out and about, I'm in-between projects. If you don't see me for a few weeks at a time, I'm probably working."\n "I'm a corporate consultant in _________. Because of type of contracts I work, I can't say in what capacity or specifically for whom. And if I did happen to tell you, you would be bored to tears and wonder what the big deal is. The only downside to me telling you is that I won't be able to work as a corporate consultant anymore."\n You don't have to tell them what your plans are, and that they arent any different than what you are doing now." }, { "id": "t1_ols7xwp", "author": "/u/Ok-Structure5637", "updated": "2026-05-14T16:02:07+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/ols7xwp/", "content": "I don't get how nobody in my lineage built up some inheritance to pass down. Congrats OP -" }, { "id": "t1_ols96t6", "author": "/u/Ok_Location7161", "updated": "2026-05-14T16:07:46+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/ols96t6/", "content": "I forget in 3 seconds whenever pepple tell me what they do for work. Cause I dont reallly care." }, { "id": "t1_ols9ji3", "author": "/u/solicitor_501", "updated": "2026-05-14T16:09:22+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/ols9ji3/", "content": "“I’m 6-5 and in finance”" }, { "id": "t1_ols9mej", "author": "/u/howtoretireby40", "updated": "2026-05-14T16:09:44+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/ols9mej/", "content": "people dont care as much as you think they will, say whatever you want" }, { "id": "t1_olsas2z", "author": "/u/bunnycricketgo", "updated": "2026-05-14T16:14:54+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/olsas2z/", "content": "What *do* you do? You must have interests. Hobbies that you spend a lot of your free time on. Don't define yourself by your job, and if they insist on knowing find a polite white lie: I dabble, I consult, I don't like talking about it as its not that interesting." }, { "id": "t1_olsb555", "author": "/u/ValuableGroceries", "updated": "2026-05-14T16:16:30+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/olsb555/", "content": "I say I do exactly what I did before except I work remotely now. So if that means at home or when I’m vacationing, doesn’t matter, I’m working lol" }, { "id": "t1_olsb979", "author": "/u/HomemadeLightbulb", "updated": "2026-05-14T16:17:00+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/olsb979/", "content": "Never plan to have kids? If so, you can probably coast here. But if that might change, I’d keep working.\n If this were me, I’d find work in a field or project that is meaningful to me.\n $3mm isn’t $10mm\n I’d keep living life and part of that would be working still. The right job is enjoyable and adds to your stack so you aren’t just chopping away at it and depending on a positive market.\n You’re young. Do something. Then talk about it. That’s how you answer the question." }, { "id": "t1_olsbim4", "author": "/u/Successful-Cabinet65", "updated": "2026-05-14T16:18:09+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/olsbim4/", "content": "For what it's worth, even though I am still working and nowhere near to retirement, I have shifted my perspective when people ask whati do from work to life." }, { "id": "t1_olsbywy", "author": "/u/HeavySigh14", "updated": "2026-05-14T16:20:11+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/olsbywy/", "content": "Property Management if you have rental properties" }, { "id": "t1_olscj5t", "author": "/u/brianmcg321", "updated": "2026-05-14T16:22:41+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/olscj5t/", "content": "Tell them you’re an importer/exporter." }, { "id": "t1_olsct3m", "author": "/u/AgitatedAnybody4163", "updated": "2026-05-14T16:23:56+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/olsct3m/", "content": "You don’t have to tell anybody shit. It’s not their business, do what you do. Just tell them you own a business of some kind." }, { "id": "t1_olsd0wf", "author": "/u/bhihifi", "updated": "2026-05-14T16:24:52+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/olsd0wf/", "content": "Escort." }, { "id": "t1_olsd48c", "author": "/u/nothatsmyarm", "updated": "2026-05-14T16:25:17+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/olsd48c/", "content": "I do enjoy that every time this sort of thread comes up, people provide an answer which is, only in the most technical sense, “not a lie.”\n But then I wonder if these people are in relationships and how their spouse (or frankly, themselves) would feel if, in response to a fairly direct question, they were given a misleading half-truth. Would they be comforted once it’s discovered with “well, technically I didn’t lie to you”? I doubt it." }, { "id": "t1_olsd6nd", "author": "/u/Carolina_Hurricane", "updated": "2026-05-14T16:25:35+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/olsd6nd/", "content": "Whenever the question “what do you do” comes up I answer with hobbies and where I like to travel.\n Americans can be incredibly boring with the standard where do you live, what do you do for a living as they create your financial profile in their head." }, { "id": "t1_olsem8s", "author": "/u/RC1172", "updated": "2026-05-14T16:32:03+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/olsem8s/", "content": "Whatever your profession was before you retired, use that. I assume if you went back to work you’d go into the same field. As far as explaining your always open schedule you can say you freelance, consult, or that you’re on sabbatical." }, { "id": "t1_olses1i", "author": "/u/reddituser071217", "updated": "2026-05-14T16:32:47+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/olses1i/", "content": "If you say consultant, I would stick to something you know about. I’ve had people follow up and basically I chose consultant in the field I was in.\n For people I know, I told them I’m taking time off to help with a family member’s care.\n What did you do before you I retired?" }, { "id": "t1_olsf3ct", "author": "/u/De_mentorr", "updated": "2026-05-14T16:34:13+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/olsf3ct/", "content": "Sugar Daddy" }, { "id": "t1_olsfbmq", "author": "/u/belonging_to", "updated": "2026-05-14T16:35:16+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/olsfbmq/", "content": "Tell them you manage a Private Wealth Fund and you are binding agreement not to disclose the name of the client." }, { "id": "t1_olsffcj", "author": "/u/proveam", "updated": "2026-05-14T16:35:44+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/olsffcj/", "content": "“In terms of how I pay the bills, I’m able to live off of an inheritance I received when my [family member] passed away. In terms of how I spend my time, I volunteer at xyz and I’m taking a class about abc. I’m also able to spend a lot of time doing etc. What about you?”" }, { "id": "t1_olsfih3", "author": "/u/Yellow_Apple_1971", "updated": "2026-05-14T16:36:07+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/olsfih3/", "content": "“I am the one who knocks.”" }, { "id": "t1_olsfls0", "author": "/u/cupa001", "updated": "2026-05-14T16:36:32+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/olsfls0/", "content": "Consulting? Even if it is consulting for yourself?" }, { "id": "t1_olsghd4", "author": "/u/SatisfactionBulky717", "updated": "2026-05-14T16:40:30+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/olsghd4/", "content": "I have a friend who retired about twenty years ago now, we are mid 50's, and he is a "Project Manager". He happens to only manage his own projects that can be whatever he wants." }, { "id": "t1_olsgxf2", "author": "/u/EdelinePenrose", "updated": "2026-05-14T16:42:29+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/olsgxf2/", "content": "i think all the convoluted answers you’re getting here are just going to invite more questions or essentially amount to dishonesty. if i were you, i’d just be honest: “i got lucky and was able to retire early. now i’m trying to find my next passion.” or similar. those who push your boundaries on follow up questions should be discarded anyway lol." }, { "id": "t1_olsh9uo", "author": "/u/jhonkas", "updated": "2026-05-14T16:44:03+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/olsh9uo/", "content": "jesus christ see a therapist with all the time nad money you have" }, { "id": "t1_olshh5l", "author": "/u/Halle-Maki", "updated": "2026-05-14T16:44:58+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/olshh5l/", "content": "Maybe I’m just jealous, but receiving a large inheritance seems different than working hard, investing, and sticking to a plan for years to FIRE." }, { "id": "t1_olshvoz", "author": "/u/johnnyg08", "updated": "2026-05-14T16:46:47+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/olshvoz/", "content": "I'm retired. Investments did well. Always was a saver." }, { "id": "t1_olsiwi8", "author": "/u/Fanman2400", "updated": "2026-05-14T16:51:21+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/olsiwi8/", "content": "Say you retired form a former xxxxx and now you consult and manage your investments part time" }, { "id": "t1_olskcmv", "author": "/u/penny_lab", "updated": "2026-05-14T16:57:52+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/olskcmv/", "content": "As a data analyst, I struggle to explain to people what I do, and people rarely ask follow up questions. So post FIRE I will continue to say data analyst, waffle slightly and watch everyone's eyes glaze over." }, { "id": "t1_olskjcs", "author": "/u/Organic-Aardvark-146", "updated": "2026-05-14T16:58:42+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/olskjcs/", "content": "“Self employed” or “consulting”" }, { "id": "t1_olsl05x", "author": "/u/madoneforever", "updated": "2026-05-14T17:00:45+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/olsl05x/", "content": "Just say you manage investments. No one needs to know it is just yours. Also redefine your identity around who you are not what you do." }, { "id": "t1_olsl5l2", "author": "/u/Spartan2022", "updated": "2026-05-14T17:01:25+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/olsl5l2/", "content": "Wealth management, consulting, etc." }, { "id": "t1_olsl7py", "author": "/u/Fun-Exercise-7196", "updated": "2026-05-14T17:01:41+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/olsl7py/", "content": "Most millionaires live like you do. We don't flaunt it." }, { "id": "t1_olsld9n", "author": "/u/Icy_Sherbet_8222", "updated": "2026-05-14T17:02:22+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/olsld9n/", "content": "Honestly??? You can just humbly talk about what you did before the inheritance and then talk about how lucky you got. You still live the same and are wondering what to do next." }, { "id": "t1_olslfiq", "author": "/u/Banned3rdTimesaCharm", "updated": "2026-05-14T17:02:40+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/olslfiq/", "content": "If someone doesn’t find me attractive because I’m a self made millionaire who retired early then I don’t think I’d wanna date that person. We’re on different wave lengths." }, { "id": "t1_olsm7fw", "author": "/u/Nervous_Platypus_149", "updated": "2026-05-14T17:06:09+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/olsm7fw/", "content": "If I went on a date and learned the guy was FIRE I would be so interested!" }, { "id": "t1_olsms4q", "author": "/u/writesgud", "updated": "2026-05-14T17:08:44+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/olsms4q/", "content": "Brainstorming: how would you feel if you said you retired early? Unfortunately that does broadcast that you have a sizable net worth. But it’s also an honest answer, and you living humbly also gives you the opportunity to meet women who, knowing both those things, see if they can accept it.\n If they start proposing at some you make expensive purchases, then you know their lifestyle isn’t compatible with yours.\n If they propose some modest increases in your spending, that isn’t necessarily a bad sign. Be prepared to be a little flexible, especially if you are objectively on the cheap end of the spectrum.\n Doesn’t mean you can’t stop being thrifty, but some financial flexibility and compromise is important to make any relationship work long-term. Especially if you decide you want to have kids.\n Good luck!\n And per the top comment you don’t want that to negate true work, volunteer or no, that you do anyways.\n You said you live humbly. I think that’s a good way to get a sense of how prospective hi" }, { "id": "t1_olsmx9b", "author": "/u/N19g90", "updated": "2026-05-14T17:09:22+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/olsmx9b/", "content": "I feel like 3 million is not enough. I would keep working… maybe part time so you can still get benefits like healthcare and a retirement plan." }, { "id": "t1_olsn51a", "author": "/u/apresledepart", "updated": "2026-05-14T17:10:20+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/olsn51a/", "content": "You should be doing something." }, { "id": "t1_olsnzoi", "author": "/u/here4daratio", "updated": "2026-05-14T17:14:07+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/olsnzoi/", "content": "“Oh! I’m glad you asked. Are you familiar with the Import-Export Bank, and South American rural agriculture? Well, during the crop cycle…”\n You’ll lose 95% by the third sentance." }, { "id": "t1_olspg0z", "author": "/u/1steverredditaccount", "updated": "2026-05-14T17:20:37+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/olspg0z/", "content": "You're a consultant and also work remotely" }, { "id": "t1_olspqp6", "author": "/u/InsertNovelAnswer", "updated": "2026-05-14T17:21:59+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/olspqp6/", "content": "Whatever you are doing is what you do... I garden and I'm a caucus member for Vets. My brother who is retired runs games on the side professionally just for fun. So he tells people he's a professional DM." }, { "id": "t1_olspv3z", "author": "/u/RoboticGreg", "updated": "2026-05-14T17:22:33+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/olspv3z/", "content": ""Consulting, mostly" then people's eyes sort of glaze over" }, { "id": "t1_olsqc1d", "author": "/u/Hot_Second7559", "updated": "2026-05-14T17:24:41+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/olsqc1d/", "content": "“I run a family investment office.”\n “I’m consulting in the _____ industry.”\n “I’m a fractional investments executive.”" }, { "id": "t1_olsrkts", "author": "/u/K_A_irony", "updated": "2026-05-14T17:30:13+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/olsrkts/", "content": "I think you have to be honest with someone you are dating. "I worked in X. I kept my expenses low and saved. Had some luck as well and have been able to retire with a reasonable but not extravagant lifestyle." Then just stop talking about that topic early in dating. If you make it past the 6 to 9 month mark, you can go into more depth then." }, { "id": "t1_olsrmde", "author": "/u/MaryinTexas", "updated": "2026-05-14T17:30:24+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/olsrmde/", "content": "Freelance financial services…leave at that" }, { "id": "t1_olss5my", "author": "/u/Benevolent_Grouch", "updated": "2026-05-14T17:32:47+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/olss5my/", "content": "You’re an investor. And because those investments are successful enough to live off of, you have a lot of free time for a relationship, hobbies, and travel." }, { "id": "t1_olst3qz", "author": "/u/RecentState1347", "updated": "2026-05-14T17:37:00+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/olst3qz/", "content": "Just say whatever industry you used to be in and change the subject. No one actually cares that much about your job.\n (Do NOT make a big deal about being an “angel investor”, guys in New York do this all the time and it’s so tacky.)" }, { "id": "t1_olsto2t", "author": "/u/Sweaty-Gargoons", "updated": "2026-05-14T17:39:29+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/olsto2t/", "content": "Put it through chatgpt and see what it puts out" }, { "id": "t1_olsufdc", "author": "/u/sluttyman69", "updated": "2026-05-14T17:42:53+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/olsufdc/", "content": "You don’t need to tell anybody about the money dating‘s gonna be difficult not being able to explain how you can afford. They’re gonna think you’re a drug dealer, but you still don’t need to explain. - hard parts gonna be keeping busy, not burning through it and finding somebody that actually likes you for you quit telling people you got money they don’t need to know" }, { "id": "t1_olsw9o3", "author": "/u/Odd-Ad-7071", "updated": "2026-05-14T17:50:57+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/olsw9o3/", "content": "First of all, congratulations. You are living a lot of people’s dream, my own included. Second, if you aren’t planning on being involved in work of any kind (wouldn’t blame you. As I’ve said, that’s the dream.) I’d maybe just say you were in risk management or as others suggest, highlight your hobbies or something. But if you are planning to keep the budget low, I wouldn’t advise that you are a millionaire to the women you date." }, { "id": "t1_olsyk7a", "author": "/u/bitofaknowitall", "updated": "2026-05-14T18:00:59+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/olsyk7a/", "content": "My friend just started dating a woman in a similar situation. She avoided the question in their initial texts and then told him the whole story (received an inheritance from an heiress whose pets she cared for, if you can believe that) at the first date. Probably after she decided there was going to be a second. He was a bit uncomfortable with it at first but it quickly just became a normal fact of their relationship. She will do things throughout the week without him (even going on solo trips) and she tries to always make time on the weekends since that is when he has time. She lives very frugally like you so there’s no expectation by the other party that she will cover all their expenses. She told him she has a strict budget (unclear if it is a trust situation or just self-imposed) and they stick to it. That way money disparity hasn’t become a weird issue between them." }, { "id": "t1_olt1d4m", "author": "/u/rr90013", "updated": "2026-05-14T18:13:43+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/olt1d4m/", "content": "$3m is enough to never work again?" }, { "id": "t1_olt64p3", "author": "/u/codewolf", "updated": "2026-05-14T18:35:47+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/olt64p3/", "content": "Depending on your lifestyle, sure. At a 4% withdrawal rate, you're looking at an income of about $120K per year." }, { "id": "t1_olt1m1a", "author": "/u/Wojohowicz", "updated": "2026-05-14T18:14:53+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/olt1m1a/", "content": "You need to watch About a Boy.\n It’s a great Hugh Grant movie." }, { "id": "t1_olt2p8d", "author": "/u/GWTLAG", "updated": "2026-05-14T18:19:55+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/olt2p8d/", "content": "“I’m a self-funded NEET.”" }, { "id": "t1_olt2tm3", "author": "/u/demona2002", "updated": "2026-05-14T18:20:28+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/olt2tm3/", "content": "I’m a consultant in X" }, { "id": "t1_olt471s", "author": "/u/Unique_Ship_4569", "updated": "2026-05-14T18:26:48+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/olt471s/", "content": "“I manage my own investments” I think it should do the job." }, { "id": "t1_olt4rfa", "author": "/u/Human-Region4958", "updated": "2026-05-14T18:29:25+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/olt4rfa/", "content": "I agree with whoever said consulting, find something you’re knowledgeable about and tell them that’s the consulting work you do. Make sure you have some hobbies and other things to keep you productive. Volunteering is great and an awesome way to meet women with good values that are charitable." }, { "id": "t1_olt5gvk", "author": "/u/Thin_Entrepreneur_98", "updated": "2026-05-14T18:32:41+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/olt5gvk/", "content": "Have you actually thought about being a financial advisor to your own money? Course, registration, finding a dealer who will accept a small Advisor? Then making income off your own account and self employed, you can have deductions: Car or kms reimbursement. Phone, internet. A % of your hydro and property taxes. Meals out for prospecting or marketing. Conferences with fund companies. Etc.\n Won’t be high income from managing 3mil, maybe 20-25k after the Dealer takes their cut and taxes. Just a thought." }, { "id": "t1_olt5hbc", "author": "/u/codewolf", "updated": "2026-05-14T18:32:45+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/olt5hbc/", "content": "I'm a hedge fund manager for one particular client." }, { "id": "t1_olt5xej", "author": "/u/Winter_Story_9635", "updated": "2026-05-14T18:34:51+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/olt5xej/", "content": "Just say you’re an entrepreneur, or a consultant, usually people will leave it at that, but if they ask for more, you can have a bit of fun with it and generate a story. Just make sure you’re not telling anyone about your recently acquired wealth, unless you really really trust them!" }, { "id": "t1_olt6gpc", "author": "/u/Longjumping-Egg-7940", "updated": "2026-05-14T18:37:19+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/olt6gpc/", "content": "Asset portfolio manager (not a lie, you do manage your own, sort of)" }, { "id": "t1_olt6idx", "author": "/u/foxfirek", "updated": "2026-05-14T18:37:31+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/olt6idx/", "content": "Honesty is important but so is managing expectations. I don’t agree with starting off a relationship with a lie.\n Saying “I am living on dividends and interest, it’s enough that so long as I’m reasonable with my spending I don’t need to work.” Is what I would go with. It shows you are financially secure but not rich." }, { "id": "t1_olt746x", "author": "/u/Pitiful_Fox5681", "updated": "2026-05-14T18:40:19+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/olt746x/", "content": ""I managed to retire early from my prior career in..." is fine.\n "After retiring early, I've dedicated myself to volunteering at... " is better." }, { "id": "t1_olt79wb", "author": "/u/Kat9935", "updated": "2026-05-14T18:41:03+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/olt79wb/", "content": "Try to steer around the job the first few dates, just tell them its boring and I'd rather talk about you. If you are paying for dinner, etc I'm not sure how much they will need to dig into where the money is coming from. You get to date 3, then maybe it needs to come back up. I never dug into a guys career day one other than interest if we had something in common or they were an artist or did something cool like vet at the zoo...otherwise why talk about jobs they are SUPER boring." }, { "id": "t1_olt7axb", "author": "/u/johnnyace923", "updated": "2026-05-14T18:41:11+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/olt7axb/", "content": "Day trading/consulting…." }, { "id": "t1_olt7mno", "author": "/u/MinimumEffort01", "updated": "2026-05-14T18:42:41+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/olt7mno/", "content": "Did anyone ever ask you a question? If yes, then you’re a consultant." }, { "id": "t1_olt9ulf", "author": "/u/TalkLogical1738", "updated": "2026-05-14T18:52:59+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/olt9ulf/", "content": "“I’m fortunate enough to be pretty financially secure at my age, so I am in a bit of a transition phase… I used to do xxxx, but I’m looking for a new opportunity that better aligns with my passions and interests…”\n I would wait a long time before mentioning the $3M. Also, money comes and money goes - don’t do anything foolish. Read The Millionaire next door, or The next millionaire next door, to see how most millionaires really live." }, { "id": "t1_olta0td", "author": "/u/Detail4", "updated": "2026-05-14T18:53:46+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/olta0td/", "content": "If you must, just say you enjoy the stock market and got lucky.\n Notice you didn’t say you got lucky IN the stock market." }, { "id": "t1_oltaeq1", "author": "/u/mden1974", "updated": "2026-05-14T18:55:33+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/oltaeq1/", "content": "You just say “crypto” and that’s it. You won’t get any questions after that" }, { "id": "t1_oltb79e", "author": "/u/_Losing_Generation_", "updated": "2026-05-14T18:59:12+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/oltb79e/", "content": "Tell them you do everything they do, but you do it whenever you feel like it and not on the weekends" }, { "id": "t1_oltbbk9", "author": "/u/crooktimber", "updated": "2026-05-14T18:59:44+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/oltbbk9/", "content": "Portfolio manager/director? Close to the truth." }, { "id": "t1_oltbolb", "author": "/u/Babykinsbaby", "updated": "2026-05-14T19:01:26+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/oltbolb/", "content": "As a 37 year old woman who works in tech and can pay my own bills with hobbies (play bass in a band, teach yoga, read) I would be PISSED if a man misled me into thinking he had a job when he didn’t have one.\n He would have to have hobbies, interests, or a willingness to make my life easier in order for me to want to date him. Doing nothing is unattractive. If a woman can take care of herself, she is not going to be impressed by a 3 million dollar inheritance" }, { "id": "t1_oltcjaw", "author": "/u/RX3000", "updated": "2026-05-14T19:05:27+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/oltcjaw/", "content": "Wealth Management" }, { "id": "t1_oltcw3y", "author": "/u/Deufuss", "updated": "2026-05-14T19:07:09+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/oltcw3y/", "content": "Bookkeeper for a _______ company. I also happen to own said company, but whether or not I want to mention that depends on the situation. It's factually correct, as the bulk of my actual work is entering statements and paying invoices - maybe a couple hours a week if I reeeally stretch it." }, { "id": "t1_oltdd32", "author": "/u/Longjumping_Talk5996", "updated": "2026-05-14T19:09:23+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/oltdd32/", "content": "Just say youre a trust fund baby... you are" }, { "id": "t1_oltdqbf", "author": "/u/NotGoodSoftwareMaker", "updated": "2026-05-14T19:11:07+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/oltdqbf/", "content": "Private wealth manager, easiest way to explain it and it is true" }, { "id": "t1_olte90d", "author": "/u/Bertozoide", "updated": "2026-05-14T19:13:33+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/olte90d/", "content": "Freelance/part time consulting. It always works for people with clear schedules\n When/if it become a a serious relationship you can open up about finances, and always do a prenup" }, { "id": "t1_oltfvcu", "author": "/u/rizzo1717", "updated": "2026-05-14T19:21:12+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/oltfvcu/", "content": "I’m on disability right now but I tell people I’m gainfully unemployed." }, { "id": "t1_oltfy5c", "author": "/u/KaleidoscopeDan", "updated": "2026-05-14T19:21:35+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/oltfy5c/", "content": "Just say financials or finops, because that would sound like you're into investments.\n Or just say accounts receivables or payable because you still have bills hahahaha" }, { "id": "t1_olthrsk", "author": "/u/centexgoodguy", "updated": "2026-05-14T19:30:09+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/olthrsk/", "content": "Importer/exporter for Vandelay Industies." }, { "id": "t1_oltif84", "author": "/u/Judson_Scott", "updated": "2026-05-14T19:33:14+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/oltif84/", "content": "But I also don't want to lie.\n I never lie. The natural state of humans is truth-telling. Lying takes more physical effort, as demonstrated by fMRIs. So my philosophy is this: Lying is letting other people control you.\n When people ask what I do, I say, "I'm retired." Yes, some people ask questions about this (I'm early 50s but in great shape so I look younger). I'm an open book, and happy to answer those questions." }, { "id": "t1_oltip2x", "author": "/u/probably_normal", "updated": "2026-05-14T19:34:33+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/oltip2x/", "content": "Asset manager." }, { "id": "t1_oltkoop", "author": "/u/Flashy-Donkey-8326", "updated": "2026-05-14T19:44:07+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/oltkoop/", "content": "You sell stuff on eBay" }, { "id": "t1_oltkp5c", "author": "/u/Zealousideal_Pomelo8", "updated": "2026-05-14T19:44:10+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/oltkp5c/", "content": "You came up with random invention think “reverse pump for septic system” sold said patent to Phillips / 3M and live off that." }, { "id": "t1_oltkzck", "author": "/u/Lost_Highway_1070", "updated": "2026-05-14T19:45:29+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/oltkzck/", "content": "I am corporate advisor" }, { "id": "t1_oltl5q4", "author": "/u/Fun_Muscle9399", "updated": "2026-05-14T19:46:20+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/oltl5q4/", "content": "“I work in private equity”" }, { "id": "t1_oltlnr5", "author": "/u/lavasca", "updated": "2026-05-14T19:48:41+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/oltlnr5/", "content": "Freelance financial analyst on sabbatical" }, { "id": "t1_oltm6ua", "author": "/u/jrb825", "updated": "2026-05-14T19:51:10+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/oltm6ua/", "content": "You're retired, you're an investor, you do different things" }, { "id": "t1_oltmfbr", "author": "/u/JudgeMyReinhold", "updated": "2026-05-14T19:52:16+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/oltmfbr/", "content": "What type of financial advisor did you seek out?" }, { "id": "t1_oltmzae", "author": "/u/Sad_Artichoke_3389", "updated": "2026-05-14T19:54:53+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/oltmzae/", "content": "In investing" }, { "id": "t1_olto1wj", "author": "/u/mrbaggy", "updated": "2026-05-14T19:59:52+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/olto1wj/", "content": "Investor" }, { "id": "t1_olto9y6", "author": "/u/ManufacturerNo3111", "updated": "2026-05-14T20:00:54+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/olto9y6/", "content": "I just say am an investor. Not lying either since the money is invested somewhere" }, { "id": "t1_oltp1oz", "author": "/u/ACHFJSTMDB", "updated": "2026-05-14T20:04:33+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/oltp1oz/", "content": "At 37, I would still work. If you want kids then you will realise that you will want a lot in the future to support them to get set up. My friend just inherited this amount and she has three kids. She’s ensuring they each have an apartment. She made some changes with the inheritance, paid her mortgage and moved to a part time role that she actually enjoys, but she hasn’t stopped working all together. If my husband and I came into $3mil tomorrow with our 3 kids we wouldn’t stop working forever. I’d be putting it towards my kids futures. I’m a social worker in a school so the work I do isn’t about the money, but actually doing something worth doing." }, { "id": "t1_oltq3mb", "author": "/u/sheenpween", "updated": "2026-05-14T20:09:32+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/oltq3mb/", "content": "“Portfolio manager” - it’s true right?\n Then when you find the right one? You can disclose more." }, { "id": "t1_oltqnvo", "author": "/u/davidn281", "updated": "2026-05-14T20:12:11+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/oltqnvo/", "content": "Just say you’re a financial manager. You just happened to manage your own finances lol." }, { "id": "t1_oltr1mg", "author": "/u/pablotothek", "updated": "2026-05-14T20:14:00+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/oltr1mg/", "content": "This doesnt fit on this thread, FIRE strategy is not "I won some money"" }, { "id": "t1_oltr24i", "author": "/u/sgobbie", "updated": "2026-05-14T20:14:04+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/oltr24i/", "content": "Get a job as a store clerk . If they still want to go out with you then you will know if they truly like you and not your money ." }, { "id": "t1_oltr6c0", "author": "/u/acr483", "updated": "2026-05-14T20:14:37+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/oltr6c0/", "content": "Well, what do you do? You’ve inherited a bit of money, sure, but not enough to live off forever… you say “enough to never work again” which implies you currently work… do you have a job?" }, { "id": "t1_oltrm1z", "author": "/u/majordashes", "updated": "2026-05-14T20:16:40+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/oltrm1z/", "content": "Just say, “I’m in my vibing era.”" }, { "id": "t1_olts9is", "author": "/u/garoodah", "updated": "2026-05-14T20:19:45+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/olts9is/", "content": "Say you run a family office" }, { "id": "t1_oltspsv", "author": "/u/No-Lifeguard-8767", "updated": "2026-05-14T20:21:53+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/oltspsv/", "content": "Just say you are a "Private Portfolio Manager", and you are, it is just your own." }, { "id": "t1_oltsszg", "author": "/u/modulusshift", "updated": "2026-05-14T20:22:19+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/oltsszg/", "content": "Answer it honestly (what are you doing these days, anyway?), and call her out for expecting a salary number if necessary, to which you can relent with “money isn’t an issue”. As long as you’re well put together (well groomed and tailored!) that comes across as an enticing mystery, not a potential red flag. (You do make sure your clothes fit, right?)" }, { "id": "t1_olttage", "author": "/u/InvestmentMuch585", "updated": "2026-05-14T20:24:37+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/olttage/", "content": "First off, do not co-mingle your $3M inheritance with your spouse. Keep it invested and use the profits / dividends from that (which will already be marital income) for repairs to houses, etc. Then if you ever get divorced, the $3M stays with you. Sorry for the negativity, but just putting the warning out there.\n Second, just tell people you switched to consulting part-time for whatever you used to do (if consulting would make sense for that). If that doesn't work, have a hobby that you make a little income from and then exaggerate that it's enough to cover your bills. If you really need to talk about finances, just say you got an inheritance that was just barely able to pay off your house and car and that you mostly just bum around with part-time work. Then as far as they know you are "financially independent" due to low debt instead of high amounts of money." }, { "id": "t1_olttfa6", "author": "/u/Barista-FI", "updated": "2026-05-14T20:25:14+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/olttfa6/", "content": "Start a company doing something you love and… now you’re a consultant of whatever it is." }, { "id": "t1_olttiu4", "author": "/u/Busy_Resort_3262", "updated": "2026-05-14T20:25:42+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/olttiu4/", "content": "$3MM at 37, I would keep working. Besides, your advisor will eat through about 28% of your total returns over time; assuming you pay him 1% AUM annually.\n You can do that calculation yourself so you understand what means. AI is helpful if you don’t want to use online calculators.\n Also, calculate all the fees for all the ETFs, MFs, other indices he may have you in. Those are additional fees eating through your total return overtime.\n In short, before you retire, make sure you do your calculations. You may not have to worry about what to tell people about what you do for a living." }, { "id": "t1_oltuqpk", "author": "/u/Opposite_Cold8616", "updated": "2026-05-14T20:31:29+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/oltuqpk/", "content": "Buy stocks. Now you're "in the financial industry"." }, { "id": "t1_oltwifs", "author": "/u/nontrollusername", "updated": "2026-05-14T20:39:58+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/oltwifs/", "content": "Nepo baby" }, { "id": "t1_oltyi1z", "author": "/u/pizzaslice_amaro", "updated": "2026-05-14T20:49:38+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/oltyi1z/", "content": "Also if the GF becomes more, then family… 3 mill likely going to go away fast 🤷🏽" }, { "id": "t1_oltzb18", "author": "/u/Opaque_Cypher", "updated": "2026-05-14T20:53:35+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/oltzb18/", "content": "You are now a portfolio manager (of your own portfolio).\n Also, this might be controversial but - once you have your investments set up and an understanding of what you want to do, maintaining a financial advisor will probably cost you more than it’s worth. Really hope you are at least with a fixed fee one and are not paying a % of portfolio value for the services." }, { "id": "t1_olu0ksu", "author": "/u/Rfksemperfi", "updated": "2026-05-14T20:59:46+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/olu0ksu/", "content": "Maybe do something worth talking about." }, { "id": "t1_olu2k5x", "author": "/u/Born-Attitude8049", "updated": "2026-05-14T21:09:28+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/olu2k5x/", "content": "On a side note, have you thought about setting up a trust that pays you a set amount of Money every year? That would protect the wealth from potential golddiggers i think\n I would Always be hesitant about new relationships If they realised that part of my Life" }, { "id": "t1_olu3hg0", "author": "/u/subtle_lure", "updated": "2026-05-14T21:14:00+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/olu3hg0/", "content": "just say ur in wealth management, technically not a lie" }, { "id": "t1_olu3lia", "author": "/u/Previous_Guitar5027", "updated": "2026-05-14T21:14:32+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/olu3lia/", "content": "I’m an onlyfans content creator" }, { "id": "t1_olu47xg", "author": "/u/Zkeptek", "updated": "2026-05-14T21:17:36+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/olu47xg/", "content": "Participate in the foundation you fund. (Just don’t name it your name or your relatives name.) That way you can raise attention for the cause and be truthful about what you do. You don’t have to get paid by the foundation. Or get paid something de minimus and that way you have actual income like a ‘normal’ person." }, { "id": "t1_olu4yjb", "author": "/u/WilsonTree2112", "updated": "2026-05-14T21:21:16+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/olu4yjb/", "content": "Just say you’re an importer/exporter." }, { "id": "t1_olu6uvr", "author": "/u/EnvironmentalAct7209", "updated": "2026-05-14T21:30:43+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/olu6uvr/", "content": "Recently converted Trustafarian" }, { "id": "t1_olu6zqd", "author": "/u/UnderstandingOk9448", "updated": "2026-05-14T21:31:24+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/olu6zqd/", "content": "You can say that you work in the non-profit sector. This includes X organization that you volunteer for and the foundation that you are starting. In Europe, it is poor taste to ask "what do you do" . I agree it is trite and boring. You can redirect social conversation while dating to a topic more meaningful.\n It is important that you do not convey that you are wealthy. You will not attract the right person. Do what you are doing in how you live your lifestyle and you will meet your soul mate soon enough." }, { "id": "t1_olu784o", "author": "/u/myusernamewasatypo", "updated": "2026-05-14T21:32:32+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/olu784o/", "content": "You have to be honest.\n 1: Why honest? Because it sucks to bait and switch. I mean, you DO things with your time, yes? I mean... you must? Because if you just sit around watching twitch streamers all day, well... that is going to require a specific kind of woman, and you need to be up front if you want to find that needle in a haystack.\n 2: Also: You can FIRE on that comfortably as just you (not sure about that foundation) but if you want a future with someone you need a future growth mindset - and that is not full 4% draws every year, necessarily. A successful woman with a job and a plan - not a "gold digger" - is going to want to know that you have a plan that includes more than just yourself, no matter what is in your bank account. So how does your income off "almost" $3 mil build a future with someone? $120k is great and very comfortable many places, but what about kids? A house for more than just you? College? It's that mindset that answers the question of what you do - "what you do" is a proxy for "do you have goals." And if your goals are to travel, dine and just chill off your static income... well, that's going to be a no-go for a lot of women not because they want more money, but they want someone who matches their energy. OTOH, there are plenty of "let's unschool the kids and travel the world on a shoestring!" gals, too - and you can only meet them if you are honest with yourself about what you do (travel, chill)." }, { "id": "t1_olu7ar7", "author": "/u/RTSamuels", "updated": "2026-05-14T21:32:54+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/olu7ar7/", "content": "I would say I’m a Day Trader. You can tell them anything for what hours you work. On Fridays, tell her I had a good day today. Do you want to go out to dinner and a movie? If you’re getting weird vibes, just reverse it and see if they will pay. Get a dummy savings account and checkbook. You can move money in and out, again depending on the vibe." }, { "id": "t1_olu7o6n", "author": "/u/Foreign-Figure8797", "updated": "2026-05-14T21:34:48+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/olu7o6n/", "content": "Most people are talking about lying versus telling the truth. I think I can understand your situation, because I am FI from my husband passing. And when I finally started dating again this was a serious concern because there are people out there who are looking for easy money.\n So instead, I think of it more as vetting the person before they know much about your finances. I think the best course is to have something simple that you actually do, that feasibly brings in more money than it does in reality. I also think it’s better for people to see your money personality than your actual numbers. And for you to see their money personality. You said that you live frugally, I’m the same way and I still bargain hunt and look for sales, so even if I could buy something at full price, the people around me know that I prefer bargains and saving money. They don’t need to know what’s in my bank account. The last thing you want is to find a woman who at some point starts pushing you to buy expensive things because she knows you can afford it.\n I’ve also been dating someone for a while now, and have often wondered how much to disclose at what point, and for me I’ve decided that there’s probably no need for details until we start talking about marriage or living together. In my case I have kids so I feel like Im protecting their finances as well." }, { "id": "t1_olu81gn", "author": "/u/Big-Top5171", "updated": "2026-05-14T21:36:39+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/olu81gn/", "content": "Tell them you work for the government. That could mean absolutely anything. Do Not elaborate." }, { "id": "t1_olu9j5j", "author": "/u/LeewardLiving", "updated": "2026-05-14T21:44:13+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/olu9j5j/", "content": "I once had a relative pass away and leave me two dollars in Kennedy half dollars. Honestly, I can say that is the best inheritance received to date.\n All kidding aside, make sure you have health insurance. In today’s world, $3 million won’t go far if you run into a health problem." }, { "id": "t1_olu9r43", "author": "/u/SelectionEasy4419", "updated": "2026-05-14T21:45:20+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/olu9r43/", "content": "You work for a three-letter government agency. You can't talk about what you do." }, { "id": "t1_olucrf9", "author": "/u/CrashDriveMegaGig", "updated": "2026-05-14T22:00:54+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/olucrf9/", "content": "This is "one night stand out of town" material." }, { "id": "t1_olua0so", "author": "/u/Stone804_", "updated": "2026-05-14T21:46:43+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/olua0so/", "content": "Sounds like the relative was FIRE too." }, { "id": "t1_oluc0ck", "author": "/u/EmphasisElegant3601", "updated": "2026-05-14T21:56:57+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/oluc0ck/", "content": "Reply "Why, nothing of course! Just like everyone else in my class at Eton"." }, { "id": "t1_olucfep", "author": "/u/Confident-Barber-347", "updated": "2026-05-14T21:59:09+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/olucfep/", "content": "“Financial advisor” (for yourself)" }, { "id": "t1_oludttn", "author": "/u/No-Joke8570", "updated": "2026-05-14T22:06:33+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/oludttn/", "content": "For the Job thing, you could say "Between jobs right now, but confident."\n Most important: Keep your inheritance separate in your name only, no mixing of funds with anyone, or you lose the legal protection of inheritance. This applies even if you have a girlfriend move in with you, not just a wife." }, { "id": "t1_oluexim", "author": "/u/CrashDriveMegaGig", "updated": "2026-05-14T22:12:31+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/oluexim/", "content": "That's what I'm leaning towards. And I know. I'm good with money (grew up poor). I also have a very trusted financial advisor who's been helping me and guiding me in all the right directions. I'll happily share the wealth, but I'm always keeping it in my name and account." }, { "id": "t1_oludz3q", "author": "/u/Dazzling-Look9734", "updated": "2026-05-14T22:07:20+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/oludz3q/", "content": "You are an account manager who works part time from home. You specialize in mutual funds." }, { "id": "t1_oluf3k0", "author": "/u/CrashDriveMegaGig", "updated": "2026-05-14T22:13:26+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/oluf3k0/", "content": "I do mostly ETFs." }, { "id": "t1_olugbhb", "author": "/u/LuxyOllieOttie", "updated": "2026-05-14T22:20:10+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/olugbhb/", "content": "I tell them I’m retired. I’m awkward at making up things. My husband requests I tell his employees I’m on a break to appear less…pretentious. But to everyone else I know or meet, I worked a solid 17 years in a mission driven field (cancer research) and retired with a great salary and title. I’m allowed to tell ppl i worked hard and retired at 39. 39 isn’t that young. Younger than most at retirement age but certainly not unfathomable.\n If you’re worried about gold diggers, ultimately you should be married with a prenup so that would turn into a non issue. In regard to dating one, you can do mental gymnastics with how much you’re spending on someone, but make sure you don’t confuse a lady with self respect for a gold digger. Personally I seeked out a partner that made at least as much as me because I already provided myself a certain lifestyle and I didn’t want someone to bring me down from that." }, { "id": "t1_olujb9n", "author": "/u/winklesnad31", "updated": "2026-05-14T22:37:00+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/olujb9n/", "content": "What's wrong with "I retired early"?" }, { "id": "t1_olukox5", "author": "/u/Left_Huckleberry_166", "updated": "2026-05-14T22:44:45+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/olukox5/", "content": "I’m assuming you’ve invested this money. Just tell people you’re a day trader." }, { "id": "t1_olul0ys", "author": "/u/Ancient_Work4758", "updated": "2026-05-14T22:46:38+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/olul0ys/", "content": "Watch Coming to America" }, { "id": "t1_olum24v", "author": "/u/Gold-Load-362", "updated": "2026-05-14T22:52:28+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/olum24v/", "content": "International man of leisure." }, { "id": "t1_olup5s3", "author": "/u/CrashDriveMegaGig", "updated": "2026-05-14T23:10:03+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/olup5s3/", "content": "Yeah baby, yeah!" }, { "id": "t1_olunstx", "author": "/u/No-Emu-8717", "updated": "2026-05-14T23:02:20+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/olunstx/", "content": "What is your favorite hobby? I say I'm a ceramicist since it's my passion even though I won't make money doing it." }, { "id": "t1_olup4fz", "author": "/u/oneadvocate_bert", "updated": "2026-05-14T23:09:50+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/olup4fz/", "content": "Just say you do nothing mostly people dont care these days" }, { "id": "t1_olup8g9", "author": "/u/ThoughtSkeptic", "updated": "2026-05-14T23:10:28+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/olup8g9/", "content": "Adventure Capitalist? (You do fun stuff with your time and $). Explorer? (You do new fun stuff with or without your money.). Life Coach? (You’re managing and improving yourself to enjoy your life.) Etc…" }, { "id": "t1_olupaz0", "author": "/u/GW310", "updated": "2026-05-14T23:10:51+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/olupaz0/", "content": "Tell them you’re an import / export consultant. Latex business." }, { "id": "t1_oluputq", "author": "/u/Ok_Original_8500", "updated": "2026-05-14T23:14:01+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/oluputq/", "content": "I think you need to get comfortable with owning and explaining your situation from the start. Good relationships start with authenticity. If they don’t like your situation better to know sooner than later. Conversely, if you feel weird talking about your situation that suggests you have some unresolved feelings about it you need to sort through or maybe change something about it ?" }, { "id": "t1_oluqha9", "author": "/u/CrashDriveMegaGig", "updated": "2026-05-14T23:17:33+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/oluqha9/", "content": "I agree. And the more I read these comments, the more I'm leaning towards just saying "I'm figuring out my next steps after a long career...but I'm confident about it"" }, { "id": "t1_oluq6hz", "author": "/u/Own-Law9370", "updated": "2026-05-14T23:15:51+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/oluq6hz/", "content": "Don’t spend the principal and I have a daughter that’s single!! 😆" }, { "id": "t1_oluqiuu", "author": "/u/Virtual_Product_5595", "updated": "2026-05-14T23:17:48+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/oluqiuu/", "content": "“I manage investments.” Not only is it true, it also sounds responsible." }, { "id": "t1_oluqxja", "author": "/u/Striking-Cause-9845", "updated": "2026-05-14T23:20:08+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/oluqxja/", "content": "Imports. Exports. Works for me" }, { "id": "t1_oluscld", "author": "/u/InterviewOrdinary518", "updated": "2026-05-14T23:28:09+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/oluscld/", "content": "I understand telling people you have a surface level relationship with that you're in consulting or whatnot (and appreciate it's also a tongue in cheek answer) but when it comes to dating if you're looking for something serious you obviously don't want to lie if you're going to take relationship seriously. I would lead with "I volunteer and run a foundation in honor of my relative. I also have hobbies x, y, z." If they want more information about what you actually do for work, you can mention what you did previously, and if they keep digging about what you do now, just say you're not working as you're spending your time on the aforementioned things. Down the line if you build a deep enough relationship you might feel more comfortable just telling the full truth - that you're financially secure due to inheritance, want to live humbly, and don't intend to return to work." }, { "id": "t1_oluslqr", "author": "/u/StillHotPants9", "updated": "2026-05-14T23:29:36+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/oluslqr/", "content": "Investor? I hope you invested some of it? That way you may not come across as a “bum” , but can hopefully enjoy the things you do that are not wage paying without too much scrutiny. Such as volunteering or whatever, and still come across as a contributing member of society. Often prospective partners may just want to know you are doing something , and not nothing. It seems most people just would like to know someone has some sort of goals, income from something and won’t be some sort of drain on them, and vice versa, when looking for a partner." }, { "id": "t1_olutah8", "author": "/u/Putrid_Pollution3455", "updated": "2026-05-14T23:33:28+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/olutah8/", "content": "Consultant for a hedge fund 🤣 pays about 120k a year. Work from home. Make a call once a month to another person at the finance firm. They cut me a check. Good stuff." }, { "id": "t1_olutuhn", "author": "/u/mattwallace24", "updated": "2026-05-14T23:36:39+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/olutuhn/", "content": "Ask them if they have top secret security clearance. When they answer “no”, tell them you’re not allowed to tell them what you do. Adds a whole layer of intrigue." }, { "id": "t1_oluurvx", "author": "/u/Kind_Possibility_823", "updated": "2026-05-14T23:41:56+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/oluurvx/", "content": "I'd say I'm an entrepreneur and investor. If asked for details, I'd just say I invest in and am part of multiple businesses and so on..." }, { "id": "t1_oluv70z", "author": "/u/okayyyyyy-", "updated": "2026-05-14T23:44:21+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/oluv70z/", "content": "This question comes up sooo often in all the FIRE subs and I genuinely don’t get why people are so concerned about what to say. Ive been RE 3 yrs and have always been straightforward… I retired and am just enjoying myself. Maybe list some activities or talk about previous industry if they’re curious. No one has ever had any issues." }, { "id": "t1_oluvxgh", "author": "/u/laurenina63", "updated": "2026-05-14T23:48:32+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/oluvxgh/", "content": "I feel like if you like the vibe of someone you are having dinner with, a simple “I’m fortunate that at this point in my life I’m able to volunteer my time. I spend most of it doing XYZ.” If they are smart they will get the gist and realize you want to talk about your passions. If they are the type you’re trying to avoid they will want to know more about why you are fortunate. I just like to start things out honestly but also I’ve been married for a lot of years so don’t know all the scaries out there in the dating pool anymore. Wishing you much happiness!" }, { "id": "t1_oluwl7h", "author": "/u/smedleyyee", "updated": "2026-05-14T23:52:18+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/oluwl7h/", "content": "What did you do for a living? You can do something vague about that.\n I worked as an engineer and retired from being an engineering manager, and when people ask what I do I say something true based on the level of detail I want to share with them.\n\n- "I am an engineer" - what I identify as, and if they are talking about something geeky or technical.\n- "I'm not working right now" - if I fear they will be annoying, because that makes them feel awkward and generally find another topic.\n- "I'm happily retired" - if they are retiring-soon/retired themselves or it's some relative or well wisher who I want to reassure that they don't have to worry about me." }, { "id": "t1_olux5rl", "author": "/u/1000000Stars", "updated": "2026-05-14T23:55:36+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/olux5rl/", "content": "I was honest while dating. I’m a full-time stay home mom.\n I had mixed results. One guy definitely tried to be my life partner because he was broke. I’m positive he looked me up, saw where I lived, knew I was a widow and saw dollar signs. It was pretty obvious from the beginning.\n Another seemed weary when he asked what I did. I wondered if he was worried I was gold digging. I did not ask what he did.\n The others did not seem to care at all. They talked about their work briefly and seemed unbothered by my “profession”.\n The guy who was a gold digger asked if I wanted to re-marry on the first date. I said, wouldn’t consider it without a pre-nup. He agreed LOL. Five months after breaking up, he started texting me casually asking about renting an extra room at my place. I wish I was joking.\n People will target you if you have money. I have not dated since, because I don’t want to deal with it. I might fib if I date again and hope they’ll forgive me, because I don’t feel comfortable having a target on my back. People really don’t need to know your business until they earn your trust." }, { "id": "t1_oluz5re", "author": "/u/Kreativekitchening", "updated": "2026-05-15T00:07:34+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/oluz5re/", "content": "A cool hobby that results in occasional paid work like nature photographer, writer, etc.. (Not gigolo tho). Adjunct college teaching gig allows you to say "professor" without lying, a convo spark with educated women." }, { "id": "t1_oluzrf3", "author": "/u/3bluerose", "updated": "2026-05-15T00:11:08+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/oluzrf3/", "content": "What was that thing Chandler Bing did?" }, { "id": "t1_oluzxj7", "author": "/u/EfficientBonus9324", "updated": "2026-05-15T00:12:10+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/oluzxj7/", "content": "In all seriousness... (a) legacy estate management (b) fund manager (my funds!)" }, { "id": "t1_olv0c58", "author": "/u/jmw403", "updated": "2026-05-15T00:14:35+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/olv0c58/", "content": "Why do you have to make your business known? Just can't help yourself or something?" }, { "id": "t1_olv1nom", "author": "/u/LogicalOtter", "updated": "2026-05-15T00:22:28+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/olv1nom/", "content": "Is there any organization or initiative you are passionate about? Because you could spend a a little time volunteering each week. You can say you work with xyz organization, but you don’t need to say you are working for free." }, { "id": "t1_olv1uja", "author": "/u/Helpful_You1362", "updated": "2026-05-15T00:23:36+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/olv1uja/", "content": "Chief Investment Officer for a small family office." }, { "id": "t1_olv1uur", "author": "/u/Gman71882", "updated": "2026-05-15T00:23:39+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/olv1uur/", "content": "Start a non-profit foundation and say that’s your “job” To manage the nonprofit.\n If you meet someone you fall in love with tell them the truth: You worked but earned a financial windfall and are now retired and can focus on your hobbies and living life." }, { "id": "t1_olv1ytb", "author": "/u/Firsttimeredditor28", "updated": "2026-05-15T00:24:18+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/olv1ytb/", "content": "Can someone help me figure out hobbies lol" }, { "id": "t1_olv20be", "author": "/u/Silly-Safe959", "updated": "2026-05-15T00:24:34+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/olv20be/", "content": "Pick some boring field like iinsurance and say you work in that industry. Guaranteed nobody will have follow up questions." }, { "id": "t1_olv3naf", "author": "/u/Banned4Truth10", "updated": "2026-05-15T00:34:26+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/olv3naf/", "content": "Why do you care?" }, { "id": "t1_olv43zy", "author": "/u/Mission-Photograph22", "updated": "2026-05-15T00:37:14+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/olv43zy/", "content": "I’m an investor. I live off my investments and always are looking for more investment opportunities." }, { "id": "t1_olv7b4i", "author": "/u/therealsangria69", "updated": "2026-05-15T00:56:28+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/olv7b4i/", "content": "Pretend you have a job so you can have reasons to get plenty of alone time" }, { "id": "t1_olv9853", "author": "/u/Low-Ad3972", "updated": "2026-05-15T01:07:52+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/olv9853/", "content": "Say you’re an investor or anonymous social media influencer." }, { "id": "t1_olv9bqh", "author": "/u/Least-Ad-5539", "updated": "2026-05-15T01:08:27+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/olv9bqh/", "content": "Tell them you are an influencer. Seems to be a catch-all for uselessness." }, { "id": "t1_olvapwg", "author": "/u/Connect-Awareness658", "updated": "2026-05-15T01:16:43+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/olvapwg/", "content": "Pipelayer" }, { "id": "t1_olvat4d", "author": "/u/Gr8Autoxr", "updated": "2026-05-15T01:17:15+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/olvat4d/", "content": "I scrolled halfway and no one said “day trader”" }, { "id": "t1_olvazxr", "author": "/u/kstorm88", "updated": "2026-05-15T01:18:23+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/olvazxr/", "content": "Taking a sabbatical." }, { "id": "t1_olvbp4b", "author": "/u/StickyHopkins", "updated": "2026-05-15T01:22:34+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/olvbp4b/", "content": "EASY! You are an Account Manager." }, { "id": "t1_olvbv21", "author": "/u/Someth1ng_Went_Wr0ng", "updated": "2026-05-15T01:23:33+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/olvbv21/", "content": "“I just live off the government” has worked well for me (and it’s technically true, in that I retired at 55 with pension streams from having been in “civil service”)" }, { "id": "t1_olvbz0i", "author": "/u/stephendt", "updated": "2026-05-15T01:24:13+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/olvbz0i/", "content": "Just say you work in financial services / portfolio management" }, { "id": "t1_olvc417", "author": "/u/Florida_Chick", "updated": "2026-05-15T01:25:04+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/olvc417/", "content": "Happy for you! Enjoy it, but it’s not that much money considering your age. I recommend you invest (duh), and find a business or pathway that energizes you and build from there. Never lie (to dates or anyone), but you don’t owe anyone your life story. Life is short- live well and don’t waste your gift!!" }, { "id": "t1_olvcfbl", "author": "/u/blight2150", "updated": "2026-05-15T01:26:58+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/olvcfbl/", "content": "I drink, and I know things." }, { "id": "t1_olvdgz5", "author": "/u/TheKatwoman760", "updated": "2026-05-15T01:33:20+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/olvdgz5/", "content": ""Investments"." }, { "id": "t1_olve7so", "author": "/u/1_niceguy", "updated": "2026-05-15T01:37:54+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/olve7so/", "content": "Honest question. Is 3m a lot for 37? Just can't help feeling I never have enough money for security." }, { "id": "t1_olvesbm", "author": "/u/Far-Armadillo-2920", "updated": "2026-05-15T01:41:22+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/olvesbm/", "content": "This is a tough one bc you don’t want to lie but you don’t want to tell them the truth right up front….\n My son won 16 million dollars in a lawsuit, we got about half of that (lawyers bills, fees, etc) and it’s all invested. We set up a trust and work with them. He should have 20 mil or so when he’s a young adult and can access his trust. I have no idea how he’s going to manage this money or how he’s going to live. I always encourage him that work brings purpose and meaning to life so I really hope that he can be generous and find something meaningful to do. I’m sure he will have some of the same struggles." }, { "id": "t1_olvfo1i", "author": "/u/bunnyherders", "updated": "2026-05-15T01:46:44+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/olvfo1i/", "content": "Be a life coach. Be sure to have a professional-looking website that advertises your services for $200 an hour. Or you can say you're a stock trader / investor." }, { "id": "t1_olvgxlg", "author": "/u/Gillette1814", "updated": "2026-05-15T01:54:17+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/olvgxlg/", "content": "I knew a couple that would always say “we are blissfully unemployed.” I thought that was a cool way of putting it" }, { "id": "t1_olvh36c", "author": "/u/eazolan", "updated": "2026-05-15T01:55:13+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/olvh36c/", "content": "Freelance Fund Manager" }, { "id": "t1_olvhoy7", "author": "/u/Automatic-Fox-8890", "updated": "2026-05-15T01:58:50+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/olvhoy7/", "content": "“I was able to earn enough up until now after 23 years of work to stop and follow my interests even if unpaid.” If asked more you might explain “I’m not Richie Rich but am responsible with money and can fund a stable lifestyle.” I’ve been on the other side of this convo and found both these helpful." }, { "id": "t1_olvi3bb", "author": "/u/neomoritate", "updated": "2026-05-15T02:01:13+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/olvi3bb/", "content": "Only the most dull people want to talk about work when they are not at work.\n Tell people what you do. There is no requirement that your answer involve a job. I, for example, travel and make arts.\n I ask people, sometimes on dates, "What do you like to do?"\n If someone asks "What do you do for a living?", answer "I don't."\n No follow-up questions." }, { "id": "t1_olvi4iu", "author": "/u/n0debtbigmuney", "updated": "2026-05-15T02:01:26+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/olvi4iu/", "content": "Did you ever "do" anything? Loke before inheritance were you an engineer, accountant, marketing like any type of job?" }, { "id": "t1_olvj39n", "author": "/u/ArachnidAutomatic596", "updated": "2026-05-15T02:07:11+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1td14c4/new_to_this_i_have_no_idea_what_to_tell_people_i/olvj39n/", "content": "I’m taking some time to figure out my next steps is fine, and the truth. I know a few people in your position, it’s no big deal" } ] }, { "source": "r/Fire top month", "id": "t3_1t7ckxx", "title": "Anyone else feel a little guilty?", "author": "/u/tyintegra", "updated": "2026-05-08T16:15:11+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/", "content": "Just yesterday I had a meeting with my financial advisor about doing a serious analysis of my situation to see if I could fully (or partially) retire right now at age 41.\n Then today, one of my friends (who is a few years older than me) messaged in a group chat that they are going to have to look around for loans to pay to rebuild the transmission in their car.\n This same friend (and other older friends) have commented many times about how money is tight and they just can’t seem to get ahead.\n I know I shouldn’t, but I can’t help feel a little guilty that I’m in the position that I’m in when friends are in such drastically different situations.\n Does anyone else find themselves feeling the same?\n submitted by /u/tyintegra\n [link] [comments]", "contentHtml": "

Just yesterday I had a meeting with my financial advisor about doing a serious analysis of my situation to see if I could fully (or partially) retire right now at age 41.

Then today, one of my friends (who is a few years older than me) messaged in a group chat that they are going to have to look around for loans to pay to rebuild the transmission in their car.

This same friend (and other older friends) have commented many times about how money is tight and they just can’t seem to get ahead.

I know I shouldn’t, but I can’t help feel a little guilty that I’m in the position that I’m in when friends are in such drastically different situations.

Does anyone else find themselves feeling the same?

submitted by /u/tyintegra
[link] [comments]", "comments": [ { "id": "t1_oknz432", "author": "/u/IntroductionMain5152", "updated": "2026-05-08T16:22:31+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/oknz432/", "content": "Yes and no, depends on the situation. If it’s friends that are financing 80k vehicles, or eating out 7 days a week, or have a gigantic house much bigger than necessary then I don’t really have any sympathy when they complain that things are tight, they’re tight because they are over extending themselves.\n If it’s friends that are living at or below their means, making sacrifices but for whatever reason have can’t get ahead largely due to lower incomes then for sure I feel bad for them. But I wouldn’t say I feel guilty, i do recognize my good fortune but also I’ve worked hard and made sacrifices to deserve being financially secure" }, { "id": "t1_oko2hfz", "author": "/u/tyintegra", "updated": "2026-05-08T16:37:43+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/oko2hfz/", "content": "Well put.\n I’ve even tried offering financial advice when they start complaining about their situation, but they just don’t seem to want to hear it. I guess I can’t force anyone to care or make better decisions." }, { "id": "t1_oko3q2f", "author": "/u/IntroductionMain5152", "updated": "2026-05-08T16:43:17+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/oko3q2f/", "content": "Precisely that! I’ve given up trying to guide friends on finances unless they explicitly ask for help, until someone recognizes they need help with money everything you suggest will fall on deaf ears.\n A lot of people don’t or refused to see a correlation between having a massive car payment or ordering door dash every day and always feeling broke every month.\n I’ll never feel guilty because I’ve made sensible choices to enable myself to be financially secure while they’ve pissed thousands of dollars away on DoorDash fees 🤷‍♂️" }, { "id": "t1_oko77ud", "author": "/u/Lehcen", "updated": "2026-05-08T16:58:46+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/oko77ud/", "content": "I have a friend who knows absolutely fuck all about finance. This lady makes 120k a year. ( seen her tax slips) and she’d often borrow money from me. Rack up credit card debt etc. I tried helping her with finances and told her about investment in index funds etc… she told me it’s all scam. So I stopped talking finances to her and don’t feel bad anymore" }, { "id": "t1_okotr9t", "author": "", "updated": "2026-05-08T18:40:17+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/okotr9t/", "content": "[deleted]" }, { "id": "t1_okqelau", "author": "/u/Pretty_Swordfish", "updated": "2026-05-08T23:33:53+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/okqelau/", "content": "To be fair, you can either use direct costs or you can use mileage. Maybe the mileage was more valuable for taxes than the actual costs.\n But yes, more proof that many people do not understand money." }, { "id": "t1_oliundv", "author": "/u/Strazdas1", "updated": "2026-05-13T07:15:12+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/oliundv/", "content": "If its small business you can also do flat rate. For example where i live i could report a 40% deductible expenses rate no questions asked without any proof. Only need proof if i want the rate to be higher." }, { "id": "t1_okqp80n", "author": "/u/dudes_rug", "updated": "2026-05-09T00:37:37+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/okqp80n/", "content": "My sister is this way. I think between her husband and her they probably pull 350-400 and have fuck all for savings. She “asked for help” with financial planning one time and her eyes visibly glazed over when I just mentioned a couple things. The are total Disney hedonists and do what they want when they want to. I envy that in many ways, but they will likely work until they die." }, { "id": "t1_okrmzvj", "author": "/u/Mega---Moo", "updated": "2026-05-09T04:18:50+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/okrmzvj/", "content": "Yep. Social security does fuck all for a family that needs a couple hundred thousand just to keep ahead of the bills." }, { "id": "t1_okyvnya", "author": "/u/Dilbert_55", "updated": "2026-05-10T09:39:26+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/okyvnya/", "content": "My sister and BIL are same. While they don't really piss their money away and are frugal, they are total dipshits with investing as they have "a guy". I have tried sharing with them that they are paying for fancy cars and college for kids of their "guy" and their eyes glaze over. When my DM passed away, I had to totally do all the heavy lifting on the estate as sister is useless. I even offered to meet her a local Fidelity office to help get her setup with inherited IRA account. The Fidelity office is new and a square brick and glass building. I found her walking around the building and nearly in tears as she couldn't find the entrance!!! I can't make this shit up. Some people are just happy being lost sheep and nothing you do will help." }, { "id": "t1_okouosv", "author": "/u/KV_86", "updated": "2026-05-08T18:44:41+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/okouosv/", "content": "Man i wish i had someone to talk with me and give me advices, i could be fired by now." }, { "id": "t1_okrmguj", "author": "/u/Mega---Moo", "updated": "2026-05-09T04:14:58+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/okrmguj/", "content": "My trig/calc teacher drilled into our heads the power of compound interest and my grandma always said "interest is the money that the bank pays me".\n We live well below our means and that compound interest has done its magic so far. Very happy with how my life has turned out." }, { "id": "t1_okssgg8", "author": "/u/Myownavocadotree", "updated": "2026-05-09T10:28:29+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/okssgg8/", "content": "My dad taught me at a young age, compound interest is the 8th wonder of the world lol. Glad it stuck!" }, { "id": "t1_okv5cfy", "author": "/u/Late-Mountain3406", "updated": "2026-05-09T18:29:29+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/okv5cfy/", "content": "I’m preaching the same to my kids!👏🏻" }, { "id": "t1_okpw7po", "author": "/u/theBeardedAlaskan", "updated": "2026-05-08T21:48:03+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/okpw7po/", "content": "I have some financial advice for you though! Stop “lending” this person money!" }, { "id": "t1_okq3m5o", "author": "/u/Western_Rhubarb_7959", "updated": "2026-05-08T22:29:38+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/okq3m5o/", "content": "A younger coworker and i were talking finances right after i told him I'm retiring, and I asked if he was at least contributing to his 401k to get the company match (he is).\n He told me he's not one of the guys on his team that thinks contributing to your 401k is the company stealing your money. I had to ask him to clarify that because I was positive he typed something funny or I wasn't understanding. o.0" }, { "id": "t1_okrnggm", "author": "/u/AllFiredUp3000", "updated": "2026-05-09T04:22:17+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/okrnggm/", "content": "So is he contributing to his 401(k) or is he not contributing to his 401(k), does he think it’s a scam or not? Lol that comment was confusing." }, { "id": "t1_oktd8r5", "author": "/u/DarkAngela12", "updated": "2026-05-09T12:56:16+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/oktd8r5/", "content": "I read that as, "Others on my team think 401k is the company stealing my money. I do not think that and I put money in 401k every paycheck."" }, { "id": "t1_okx756m", "author": "/u/Western_Rhubarb_7959", "updated": "2026-05-10T01:38:08+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/okx756m/", "content": "And you would have read that right :)" }, { "id": "t1_okx71fc", "author": "/u/Western_Rhubarb_7959", "updated": "2026-05-10T01:37:29+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/okx71fc/", "content": "He is contributing.\n The dipshits he worked with at the time were not." }, { "id": "t1_okrw9fd", "author": "/u/BerryPhantomVale", "updated": "2026-05-09T05:32:56+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/okrw9fd/", "content": "At the end of the day, you’re not responsible for other people’s financial decisions. If anything, you just end up proving that discipline actually pays off long-term." }, { "id": "t1_oktep7x", "author": "/u/jpeetz1", "updated": "2026-05-09T13:05:00+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/oktep7x/", "content": "I have a friend who’s bad with finances and asked for advice. He proceeded to ignore it and make another financially ruinous decision. Even when giving out advice you got to be a bit zen about it." }, { "id": "t1_okp5opa", "author": "/u/Auntie-Mam69", "updated": "2026-05-08T19:37:11+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/okp5opa/", "content": "Back in the day, I tried really hard with a couple of my friends to talk to them about how to invest. We are all boomers and I thought that all boomers knew from our own parents; Do not carry credit card debt. Do not live beyond your means. Don’t take expensive vacations if you can’t pay off your credit card when you get home. Don’t gamble $15k away at the nearby casino every year. Don’t buy a more expensive home than you can afford, and if you do, don’t then draw the equity out like it’s an ATM machine. Don’t invest in your marginally functional family member’s start up. My advice was always unwelcome, and when the day came that we had a housing crisis, 2008, and these people went upside down, guess who they were jealous of, because, in their words, “ we know how little debt you carry.” Well, no shit. Guess who retired at 50 and who still can’t." }, { "id": "t1_okq54k8", "author": "/u/Western_Rhubarb_7959", "updated": "2026-05-08T22:38:30+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/okq54k8/", "content": "Some people just need to learn it for themselves. I am one of those people, lmao.\n I unf***ed myself about 23 years ago and am retiring at the age of 60.\n Edit: To clarify, that's not "I will retire when I am 60," that's "I am 60 and my last day on the job is next month"" }, { "id": "t1_okqqgup", "author": "/u/Dazzling-Look9734", "updated": "2026-05-09T00:45:20+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/okqqgup/", "content": "Still earlier than most! Good job. 😀" }, { "id": "t1_okrhzl1", "author": "/u/SimbaRph", "updated": "2026-05-09T03:42:56+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/okrhzl1/", "content": "Congratulations 🎉🎉🎉" }, { "id": "t1_okv6sse", "author": "/u/dakupoguy", "updated": "2026-05-09T18:37:10+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/okv6sse/", "content": "Congrats. At 35, I think I'm in a similar situation but in an entirely different landscape than what it was for you 23 years ago.\n Any tips? Anything to anticipate?" }, { "id": "t1_ol3rbtu", "author": "/u/Western_Rhubarb_7959", "updated": "2026-05-11T01:59:00+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/ol3rbtu/", "content": "Well, you do the math and tell me if your situation was like mine.\n I was about the same age, in debt about $18.5k in 2002 dollars, and the interest and late fees (online payment wasn't a thing for most accounts) was killing me. If that's your situation, yeah, I can give some tips.\n You need to knuckle down and trim fat.\n I ditched cable TV, which back in 2003 was very different from ditching it today. These days I'd say (and just did, I am retiring!11!) review digital subscriptions and trim 'em.\n A big one back then, and even bigger now with Uber Eats and Door Dash, is MAKE YOUR OWN DAMNED FOOD. Staple foods are a lot cheaper than anything premade, and most of the time they don't take a huge amount of time to make.\n Above all else, don't fall for the old, "Well gosh, you DESERVE something." Don't get me wrong, perks now and again are important but they need to be $10 perks and not $1000 perks if you are serious about FIRE.\n Now....don't ask how many guitars I have, lmao, but happy to discuss what somehow worked for me, and it's pretty much the above." }, { "id": "t1_ol9fps2", "author": "/u/djchalkybeats", "updated": "2026-05-11T22:02:48+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/ol9fps2/", "content": "Congratulations!" }, { "id": "t1_olazcha", "author": "/u/Sufficient-Spend-939", "updated": "2026-05-12T03:26:22+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/olazcha/", "content": "Congrats! It made me smile when you said that you um extracted yourself. Great job" }, { "id": "t1_okqc384", "author": "/u/SherbetMaleficent844", "updated": "2026-05-08T23:19:25+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/okqc384/", "content": "I find Boomers are the worst at this. Generation Jones that felt they needed to buy everything. My In laws have declared bankruptcy once, then were 70k in debt when we made them sell their home and move near us in FL. Mind you that’s AFTER blowing through a trust fund.\n My own parents never had much, and got a windfall after a major accident. They blew through it in less than 10 years. Now there’s nothing left and my mom just finally was forced to stop working at 72 and in pretty poor health. She was very mad about having to stop working because apparently all her credit cards are maxed out. I have no idea what she keeps buying!" }, { "id": "t1_okstzi2", "author": "/u/geomaster", "updated": "2026-05-09T10:41:42+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/okstzi2/", "content": "wow how large was the trust fund" }, { "id": "t1_okruty5", "author": "/u/NeitherNecessary5180", "updated": "2026-05-09T05:20:45+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/okruty5/", "content": "Are you worried hey might ask you to loan them money?" }, { "id": "t1_oktcsgz", "author": "/u/SherbetMaleficent844", "updated": "2026-05-09T12:53:36+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/oktcsgz/", "content": "Atleast when my mom asks for money it’s always a loan. I get alerts when her account is low / potential for an overdraft and will transfer 50-100 in. But she always tells me when I can take it back out. Sometimes I do, sometimes I don’t. She does own her house, as she inherited it from my father’s parents. Since it came from my father’s side, it becomes my inheritance when the time comes. So I don’t mind helping now and then for it.\n We forced my in-laws to move (with SIL in agreement) because she and my husband were GIVING thousands of dollars a month to them. Their credit score was so bad that my husband had to put his name on an apt for them. We still continued to pay things like their car payment, phone and storage for all the crap they couldn’t part with because she insisted that they were going to buy another house.\n Gravy train ended when both my husband and SIL were laid off from their companies within a 4 week period. The crappy part is when my sister called and shared she was laid off, MILs response was, “I guess this means you can’t help with my car payment anymore.” No empathy, no “sorry you lost your job…” just all about her. They are classic Boomers." }, { "id": "t1_okzu34k", "author": "/u/Time_Traveler_948", "updated": "2026-05-10T13:43:51+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/okzu34k/", "content": "You know a different cohort of boomers than I am in. I am a boomer and so are my friends - we paid for our kids to go to college, paid for weddings, gave then $$$ for first house downpayment; we buy grandchildren expensive birthday and Christmas presents plus pay for their lessons, summer camps, etc. Have saved enough in retirement accounts and equity in our home to leave kids and grandparents a decent inheritance. This isn’t just me - my friends are doing similar things for their kids, too. Which is a hell of a lot more than my parents (WW2 generation) were able to do for me! Although to be fair, my ex MIL did give her son and I the money for my first home, and the equity I got in the divorce is what enabled my second (and still) husband and I into our first home. It was the generosity of my ex MIL that helped set the model for generosity to my kids and grandkids. That is the moral of this story - be a person others want to emulate in their lives, too. Generations don’t matter nearly as much as following the eons old Golden Rule." }, { "id": "t1_ol19u8i", "author": "/u/Auntie-Mam69", "updated": "2026-05-10T17:55:26+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/ol19u8i/", "content": "My husband and I are like you, as are most of the boomers I’m friends with. In fact, I don’t know any boomers who are living off their children. Our parents weren’t able to do that much for us, though they did all they could. And like you say that’s kind of the moral of the story; do as much as you can for others. We’ve given our kids big bumps of money when they needed help while they’re getting started and not making that much themselves. And we do it for self interest, too. They want to put a covered screened deck on the back of their house to be able to enjoy with our grandson, we want to be alive to enjoy that with them, and for our grandson to grow up w it. Once they started saving for it and got partway there, we offered them money for the rest. Now when we visit we can all lie in hammocks and watch a movie that our son in law has set up on a screen that hangs from the ceiling. It really doesn’t get better than that." }, { "id": "t1_ol3qbye", "author": "/u/SherbetMaleficent844", "updated": "2026-05-11T01:52:56+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/ol3qbye/", "content": "Most definitely different types of Boomers… my MIL has even gone so far as to tell my husband that they are owed this because “we always made sure you went to good schools.” The 3rd time I heard her say it, I couldn’t take it anymore.\n I looked at him and went, wait I thought you went to public school and had an Athletic scholarship for college. So, I shut that one down.\n The thing is, the money we have now is mine, from my career. He both supports and made it clear they are not entitled to it." }, { "id": "t1_ol5qjad", "author": "/u/Auntie-Mam69", "updated": "2026-05-11T11:20:43+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/ol5qjad/", "content": "I love the way you stood up to that! But I can’t imagine what family get together are like for you and your husband. And it’s such a waste for your in-laws to be like this. If they don’t get a grip they’ll go to their graves feeling sorry for themselves because their grown kids didn’t want to be around them." }, { "id": "t1_okp3bni", "author": "/u/duckworthy36", "updated": "2026-05-08T19:25:43+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/okp3bni/", "content": "Best way to give advice is to live an example and wait for people to ask. Nobody wants advice unless they ask for it." }, { "id": "t1_okq5mmh", "author": "/u/Lost_Error_4450", "updated": "2026-05-08T22:41:24+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/okq5mmh/", "content": "Big facts to this. I always tell my wife this when she tries to give advice to people, that nobody wants to hear it until they come ask you first, and even with that sometimes they just want to hear themselves talk." }, { "id": "t1_oktrmto", "author": "/u/Late-Command3491", "updated": "2026-05-09T14:17:27+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/oktrmto/", "content": "About literally anything." }, { "id": "t1_okor58w", "author": "/u/mygirltien", "updated": "2026-05-08T18:28:05+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/okor58w/", "content": "Just know that ultimately when they get wind that you retired you are going to have to find new friends." }, { "id": "t1_okossf3", "author": "/u/AllFiredUp3000", "updated": "2026-05-08T18:35:45+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/okossf3/", "content": "Don’t offer any advice. Nothing good can come of it. They won’t listen.\n Want to get rid of the guilt? Tell them about years of hard work and sacrifices, your journey that led to your current milestone, and watch how they put you down, diminish your hard work, and tell you that you just got lucky while refusing to accept any terrible decisions they’ve made (not counting extenuating circumstances beyond their control, of course)." }, { "id": "t1_okv4ipu", "author": "/u/ValidateMe3", "updated": "2026-05-09T18:25:13+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/okv4ipu/", "content": "Thanks for the advice" }, { "id": "t1_okv757f", "author": "/u/Late-Mountain3406", "updated": "2026-05-09T18:39:01+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/okv757f/", "content": "I’m sorry buddy but I don’t agree with you. Let me explain my point. All my cousins are in great Uníon job/ or are professional. I talk money with them and my siblings all the time. Nobody is coming to ask me for a loan either. We are a lot of cousins, so far about 5-6 of them and their family are retiring early. The main reason started with a simple conversation about not dying or retired so old like my parents and uncles. We see each other about 5-6 times a year, we check on each other all the time. We don’t go over amounts o balances or anything close, but we know how much we make for example. Are you investing in 401k? What percentage, etc. most of them have pensions anyways. Maybe we are just lucky.\n Some are not retiring young but they travel a lot around the world. They chose that lifestyle!" }, { "id": "t1_okvwoa8", "author": "/u/AllFiredUp3000", "updated": "2026-05-09T20:57:26+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/okvwoa8/", "content": "Don’t be sorry. Sounds like your situation is different and my advice doesn’t apply to you. Do what works best for you!" }, { "id": "t1_okvx3fr", "author": "/u/Late-Mountain3406", "updated": "2026-05-09T20:59:45+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/okvx3fr/", "content": "All is good my web friend!" }, { "id": "t1_oko3f5m", "author": "/u/Eff_taxes", "updated": "2026-05-08T16:41:56+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/oko3f5m/", "content": "As if an building a light emergency fund would kill them" }, { "id": "t1_okpevob", "author": "/u/ThrowawayLDS_7gen", "updated": "2026-05-08T20:20:57+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/okpevob/", "content": "You can lead a horse to water, but you can't make it drink." }, { "id": "t1_oko3pos", "author": "/u/VetalDuquette", "updated": "2026-05-08T16:43:14+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/oko3pos/", "content": "I’m amazed that the people described above - I know a few of them - don’t make the connection." }, { "id": "t1_okohoer", "author": "/u/_Mulberry__", "updated": "2026-05-08T17:45:05+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/okohoer/", "content": "That's the point I would lose all sympathy. If I've tried to help and you've turned it down, I just can't feel bad for you at all." }, { "id": "t1_oksz5pk", "author": "/u/motoMACKzwei", "updated": "2026-05-09T11:22:18+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/oksz5pk/", "content": "I really struggle with this too. I was lucky enough to have a colleague show me the ways at the very beginning of my career. Ever since, I’ve been trying to pass on the knowledge to friends and family to ensure they can retire, hopefully early. It’s amazing how most crack jokes and just keep chugging along. Found 2 people along the way that really learned and now shoot the shit with me about FIRE! It’s rough though trying to have those conversations and they just don’t wanna hear it…" }, { "id": "t1_okwys9y", "author": "/u/Busy_Resort_3262", "updated": "2026-05-10T00:45:23+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/okwys9y/", "content": "I’m in a similar position and I also have friends that are not psychologically ready to make any changes." }, { "id": "t1_okv1qk9", "author": "/u/Ok_Hippo9669", "updated": "2026-05-09T18:11:03+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/okv1qk9/", "content": "That’s why they’re where they are. Can’t really feel guilt about that." }, { "id": "t1_okv35gb", "author": "/u/capsaicin1976", "updated": "2026-05-09T18:18:16+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/okv35gb/", "content": "I heard the following somewhere, and it is spot on: never offer unsolicited financial advice - you'll never get the credit for being right, and you will get all the blame for being wrong." }, { "id": "t1_okvfrx8", "author": "/u/ecoenvirohart", "updated": "2026-05-09T19:24:38+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/okvfrx8/", "content": "My S/O and I have people around us who have complained they cant afford health care when we talk about taking care of our selves.\n These same friends have every subscription know to man, purchase collectibles, resale games and pay hundreds of dollars eating out and doing activities and vacation. I HAVE NO SYMPATHY." }, { "id": "t1_okvj110", "author": "/u/duckydan4life", "updated": "2026-05-09T19:42:28+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/okvj110/", "content": "Yeah, I’m disappointed. Have offered and volunteered to help family get better or at least more knowledgeable financially but although a lot say “that would be great”. None follow-up. Only one gson has really tried to take control of his future, the rest passive riders." }, { "id": "t1_ol0t2pp", "author": "/u/GermanShepardBirdDog", "updated": "2026-05-10T16:38:33+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/ol0t2pp/", "content": "I’ve done the same and they always want to talk about other things. Like, I just want to help you" }, { "id": "t1_oko42zj", "author": "/u/Mabbernathy", "updated": "2026-05-08T16:44:53+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/oko42zj/", "content": "I agree. In my 20s I knew several colleagues who would go out to eat multiple times a week and buy random crap at TJ Maxx and then complain about not being able to save money." }, { "id": "t1_okoexl3", "author": "/u/Good-Ad6688", "updated": "2026-05-08T17:32:52+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/okoexl3/", "content": "Agree. People are their own worst enemy even though they often times want to blame everybody else for their poor financial choices" }, { "id": "t1_okq5i7k", "author": "/u/Western_Rhubarb_7959", "updated": "2026-05-08T22:40:41+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/okq5i7k/", "content": "I'm 60 and see people of all ages bitching about money, while they sit there and order top shelf booze for mixed drinks.\n /Paying for Gray Goose in a screwdriver is a complete waste of money and good vodka" }, { "id": "t1_okpyer3", "author": "/u/RealisticSentence105", "updated": "2026-05-08T21:59:53+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/okpyer3/", "content": "If you are going to buy an $80k vehicle, you should always finance it, even if you could pay cash. That equity is better applied in a higher yield investment. Take a low interest loan on the car. Debt is not always a bad thing." }, { "id": "t1_okq0t35", "author": "/u/IntroductionMain5152", "updated": "2026-05-08T22:13:20+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/okq0t35/", "content": "Agreed, I love responsible debt. It’s the car loans at 10%+ on 80k vehicles is what I was referring to" }, { "id": "t1_okupeyb", "author": "/u/Mimopotatoe", "updated": "2026-05-09T17:09:48+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/okupeyb/", "content": "If you can afford to pay $80k for a vehicle (regardless of whether you choose to finance), you aren’t looking for a loan to finance a transmission repair." }, { "id": "t1_okuymxk", "author": "/u/Round_Telephone4384", "updated": "2026-05-09T17:55:24+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/okuymxk/", "content": "I made a post recently about that...people with money and thousands of opportunities and inheritance, waste everything by being lazy and financially unaware (not wanting to be aware moreover) and then whine about being poor and having to "sacrifice". If they were smart about money, they wouldn't have been in this situation. So no, I don't feel guilty around sich people.\n I feel bad about people who never had luck and never had help from anyone and society and economy is built against them so they have to work for the rest of their lifes. I try to support them with small things as much as possible. ( inviting for dinner or drinks)" }, { "id": "t1_okvdhlo", "author": "/u/One_Put_8904", "updated": "2026-05-09T19:12:24+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/okvdhlo/", "content": "Hit the nail on the head." }, { "id": "t1_okvilrn", "author": "/u/duckydan4life", "updated": "2026-05-09T19:40:07+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/okvilrn/", "content": "Same same perspective here, what’s tougher for me is enjoying the $$ earned and wanting family/friends to go but they can’t afford so I either pay or go by myself/with wife and we don’t really talk about how incredible the experience was. Also tough is realizing some of folks like my cousin who barely gets by made what I consider bad or lazy choices 20 years ago which set his direction and now too late to change." }, { "id": "t1_oknysi8", "author": "/u/Acceptable_Travel_20", "updated": "2026-05-08T16:21:05+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/oknysi8/", "content": "I have empathy for those that are struggling but no. I do not feel guilty about the good financial choices I have made over the last twenty something years." }, { "id": "t1_oko1k6i", "author": "/u/Always1behind", "updated": "2026-05-08T16:33:32+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/oko1k6i/", "content": "This is a great way of phrasing it! I feel so much empathy particularly knowing that we make considerably more than the average income. Not everyone has the opportunities we do. But I’m not feeling guilty for making the most of those opportunities." }, { "id": "t1_okoe9ot", "author": "/u/Drawer-Vegetable", "updated": "2026-05-08T17:29:55+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/okoe9ot/", "content": "never forget there are many that have the opportunities, but waste them too\n if you stayed disciplined, you earned this right" }, { "id": "t1_okoqcc2", "author": "/u/Future-Call8541", "updated": "2026-05-08T18:24:21+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/okoqcc2/", "content": "That's my biggest issue. I dress like a bum. One of my (paid off) cars is a 2013 4 cylinder go kart. Saving up to FIRE I never ate out and exclusively shopped at Costco to the point no one even wants food from a normal supermarket anymore. They literally won't eat it unless it's Costco stuff.\n Everyone was taking all these big vacations and we were driving to the local beaches. We never have the newest tech (phones/computers). And a bunch of other stuff like being budget poor and just looking like a brokie while everyone else seemed to have so much more financial freedom.\n But now I'm here and what a time to be here. No I don't feel bad. I ate a lot of rice and beans to get here." }, { "id": "t1_okyxfld", "author": "/u/Dilbert_55", "updated": "2026-05-10T09:55:39+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/okyxfld/", "content": "You quoted the Dave Ramsey "Rice & Beans" methodology. While his get out of debt advice is great, his investment advice is ass with his Smart Investor Pro Financial Advisors being overpriced trash. Best to stay with DIY low-cost index investing (i.e. Boglehead style) He does have some nice lifestyle quotes that are great though with "rice & beans" being one, but the best ones are:\n “We buy things we don't need with money we don't have to impress people we don't like.”\n “ If you will live like no one else, later you can live like no one else .”\n “Act your wage.”" }, { "id": "t1_okzys8a", "author": "/u/Future-Call8541", "updated": "2026-05-10T14:08:33+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/okzys8a/", "content": "I like Dave Ramsey alot but I don't believe in his strategy like a religion. Im invested in low cost etfs but I'm a big proponent of a paid off house and car vs big principle energy. I take a hybrid approach.\n Little bit of Dave Ramsey, little bogglehead, some Warren Buffet, and some wall street bets." }, { "id": "t1_okox987", "author": "/u/Always1behind", "updated": "2026-05-08T18:56:43+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/okox987/", "content": "Yes I know many of my coworkers with similar high income spend money on dumb things. But also we both have silly humanities degrees and make far more money at tech companies that literally do not need to exist while jobs that we rely on (paramedics, teachers, civil engineers, 911 operators) earn so little.\n I’m grateful for the opportunity to make this much money, i did work hard and made sacrifices, but if everyone did our useless jobs just cause the money is better, society would fall apart real fast." }, { "id": "t1_okro8z1", "author": "/u/Active-Confidence-25", "updated": "2026-05-09T04:28:08+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/okro8z1/", "content": "So true. Civil servants should get extra perks or pensions or something for making a real difference with their labor…" }, { "id": "t1_okurdpl", "author": "/u/Mimopotatoe", "updated": "2026-05-09T17:19:27+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/okurdpl/", "content": "Tax breaks would be nice. I got like a $500 maximum tax credit per year for money I’d spent on classroom supplies as a teacher. I always laughed so hard when parents talked about their tax dollars paying my salary. So do my tax dollars also pay my own salary? Do my tax dollars pay my bosses’ salaries?" }, { "id": "t1_okyjhmw", "author": "/u/Active-Confidence-25", "updated": "2026-05-10T07:44:52+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/okyjhmw/", "content": "Absolutely!" }, { "id": "t1_okur00y", "author": "/u/Mimopotatoe", "updated": "2026-05-09T17:17:35+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/okur00y/", "content": "Sounds like me… I left the teaching profession after almost 20 years and earn way more in a corporate role. I’m sorry to tell you but the world is already falling apart because of the failure to pay teachers living wages and it’s being accelerated by inflation. I made $38k my first year as a teacher and inflation adjusted that would be about $70k in buying power today. Starting teachers in that district make $50k today. The profession is overrun by a lot of people who can’t really even do their jobs, let alone retain quality people." }, { "id": "t1_oko32gp", "author": "/u/Eff_taxes", "updated": "2026-05-08T16:40:21+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/oko32gp/", "content": "Not to mention years of discipline and sacrifice" }, { "id": "t1_oko4wtj", "author": "/u/Any-Concentrate-1922", "updated": "2026-05-08T16:48:36+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/oko4wtj/", "content": "For me, it's partly choices and partly lucky circumstances. For example, I had enough extra income to be able to invest." }, { "id": "t1_okod6tu", "author": "/u/acrime", "updated": "2026-05-08T17:25:09+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/okod6tu/", "content": "Agree. Combo of choice, circumstance & happenstance. I think that’s true for a lot of folks whether they recognize it or not" }, { "id": "t1_okojxlg", "author": "/u/Cinderhazed15", "updated": "2026-05-08T17:55:11+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/okojxlg/", "content": "I wish there was more opportunities for some people… things like universal healthcare and/or childcare, etc… getting those basics in place for some people is very difficult and uses up a lot of their time/energy/funds when at the lower income thresholds. And because they don’t have an emergency fund (through being stuck, or through less than optimal spending choices), every problem is an ‘emergency’ and they are always skimming from something else to pay for what happens. That is why at least SOME of the Dave Ramsey advice is useful for some people, but it is still sort of aiming at ‘get yourself out of debt, then go back to consumerism once you can afford it and have set yourself up in a good financial path’." }, { "id": "t1_okon3ks", "author": "/u/Any-Concentrate-1922", "updated": "2026-05-08T18:09:28+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/okon3ks/", "content": "Agreed. And I believe that if healthcare and these other things were guaranteed and also NOT tied to employment, there would also be more entrepreneurship, creativity, and problem solving. Maybe Americans are afraid to quit their jobs and try something new." }, { "id": "t1_okoqj9h", "author": "/u/pn_dubya", "updated": "2026-05-08T18:25:15+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/okoqj9h/", "content": "Absolutely. I don’t want to leave the US however as we age one diagnosis can bankrupt virtually anyone, a move to a country with better health coverage may become necessary." }, { "id": "t1_okoee5j", "author": "/u/Drawer-Vegetable", "updated": "2026-05-08T17:30:28+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/okoee5j/", "content": "a dash of luck, and also being ready to take it" }, { "id": "t1_okp7pv9", "author": "/u/Auntie-Mam69", "updated": "2026-05-08T19:46:57+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/okp7pv9/", "content": "I lived in Alaska for many years. Our permanent fund dividend checks went into investments, while most of our friends got snowmobiles or went on expensive vacations every year. I will always feel bad for the people who work as hard as they can and don’t overspend but cannot get ahead. I’ll vote for everything possible that could skew things more favorably in their direction. But a lot of my peers don’t qualify for that to me. They had every chance I did and were never willing to delay gratification. What they made they spent on stuff they did not need, sometimes faster than they made it." }, { "id": "t1_okpjgao", "author": "/u/eddiebagaboo", "updated": "2026-05-08T20:42:59+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/okpjgao/", "content": "This! I’m exactly like you. I just get infuriated when most/lot say they can’t get ahead which may be true, but they spare nothing and delayed gratification is just nonexistent. I see it in my own family. Up close. And they are the first to want financial help but alway make fun of my 15 y/o car or suggest I’m cheap." }, { "id": "t1_okomifc", "author": "/u/eddiebagaboo", "updated": "2026-05-08T18:06:48+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/okomifc/", "content": "The extra income you get to invest isn’t always luck. Some made it by doing without. In my day I ate canned sardines and rice to not risk having to pull from savings." }, { "id": "t1_okonxoh", "author": "/u/wbrameld4", "updated": "2026-05-08T18:13:14+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/okonxoh/", "content": "But that's a matter of prioritization. No matter how little someone makes, they always have the option of paying themselves first." }, { "id": "t1_okooepe", "author": "/u/Any-Concentrate-1922", "updated": "2026-05-08T18:15:24+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/okooepe/", "content": "Instead of the bills?" }, { "id": "t1_okrph7m", "author": "/u/Active-Confidence-25", "updated": "2026-05-09T04:37:26+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/okrph7m/", "content": "Absolutely." }, { "id": "t1_oko8lb0", "author": "/u/CaveatBettor", "updated": "2026-05-08T17:04:47+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/oko8lb0/", "content": "I’ve loaned and donated thousands to various friends over the decades.\n My thought is similar to how I think about gifts to my children: if I help this person, I need to also help others like them (to me).\n Likewise, if the person in financial need has 50 friends like me, and 10 of them contribute like me, then they have good support.\n And I expect that not all loans will be paid back. One question I ask myself is: what is the maximum I can loan this person, still be ready to loan the same amount to the next friend next year.\n Generosity + boundaries = sustained generosity." }, { "id": "t1_okoivc7", "author": "", "updated": "2026-05-08T17:50:29+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/okoivc7/", "content": "[deleted]" }, { "id": "t1_oktilf3", "author": "/u/itsacalamity", "updated": "2026-05-09T13:27:39+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/oktilf3/", "content": "My rule is, don't loan money you can't afford to lose, and if you get it back, you know you have a friend. I've never loaned money that didn't come back to me." }, { "id": "t1_okts1wo", "author": "/u/Late-Command3491", "updated": "2026-05-09T14:19:40+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/okts1wo/", "content": "My rule is don't loan unless you can give. If I can't afford you not paying me back, that's a hard no." }, { "id": "t1_okr2e9w", "author": "/u/ChickenOneDay", "updated": "2026-05-09T01:59:17+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/okr2e9w/", "content": "I tend to just solve friends' problems by paying for the issue. Can't afford to replace your flat tire? Let me do that. I know "small" setbacks like that are huge for someone with low income. Groceries, I can help you with that." }, { "id": "t1_okts9cj", "author": "/u/Late-Command3491", "updated": "2026-05-09T14:20:44+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/okts9cj/", "content": "I'll give anyone I know a grocery gift card, even my kids' friends." }, { "id": "t1_okocvpq", "author": "/u/Mamarosereed", "updated": "2026-05-08T17:23:47+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/okocvpq/", "content": "This is how I am as well." }, { "id": "t1_oko3tmr", "author": "/u/ShootinAllMyChisolm", "updated": "2026-05-08T16:43:44+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/oko3tmr/", "content": "Exactly. Empathy. Not guilt." }, { "id": "t1_oko5n44", "author": "/u/ariadne90", "updated": "2026-05-08T16:51:49+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/oko5n44/", "content": "I love the way you phrased this as empathy rather than guilt, and I agree.\n OP remember that most financial choices come with trade-offs/sacrifice/ and often delayed gratification. I have friends who are in a far worse position than me. They struggle still, while my husband and I are basically coast fire (NW around 6m, me retired, him working in a career he loves, making 500k+ practically working part-time). But there was a time, in our 20’s, where they were living their best life and I was saving and declining those big vacations, driving the older paid off car, not buying new furniture/clothes etc.\n Celebrate your good decision making and try not to feel guilty. You’ve earned this and they have not. Simple as that 🤷🏼‍♀️" }, { "id": "t1_okoi6ca", "author": "/u/Thummimurim8", "updated": "2026-05-08T17:47:19+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/okoi6ca/", "content": "Same.\n I sacrificed to essentially invest instead of spend in my younger years. I deserve this. So do you.\n My friends who are broke now, are also driving bmws and have designer bags while I drive an outback and can retire by 45." }, { "id": "t1_oko80ni", "author": "/u/bk2947", "updated": "2026-05-08T17:02:16+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/oko80ni/", "content": "Unfortunately good financial choices don’t guarantee anything. There is a lot of luck in FiRe." }, { "id": "t1_okofnzt", "author": "/u/greg9x", "updated": "2026-05-08T17:36:08+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/okofnzt/", "content": "But bad financial choices almost guarantee struggle. Yes, there has been 'luck' in the market last few years, but everyone who benefited from it put themselves in position to gain from it. Those who put their money (or racked up debt) for fancy cars and lavish vacations weren't unlucky they didn't benefit, they made selfish choices and missed out.\n I could see myself helping out someone who was trying to be responsible but struggling. But not throwing my money to someone who just makes irresponsible decisions." }, { "id": "t1_okoi848", "author": "/u/bk2947", "updated": "2026-05-08T17:47:33+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/okoi848/", "content": "I’m not talking about stock market luck. It is lucky to avoid disability, disasters, medical debt, accidents, layoffs. There are so many things outside of our control." }, { "id": "t1_okon148", "author": "/u/greg9x", "updated": "2026-05-08T18:09:09+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/okon148/", "content": "Yes, there are some/many in those situations that were just unfortunate. But in a lot of those type cases people weren't prepared or didn't plan correctly to mitigate those issues if they occured.\n Like for Layoffs, had a guy at work who had been making $80-100K+ but could not manage his money (probably due to his choice in a partner)...lived in an apartment in bad side of town and frequently couldn't keep his beater car working to come to work (work mates would always be giving him rides, but many days he just called out). He also fell asleep constantly at work. Given plenty of chances to shape up and take on responsibility but didn't happen, so when layoffs came around he was let go and he and his family became homeless quickly because there was no savings. Friend at work tried to help him out some for a few weeks since had a young child, but of course it just led to more asking for help and friend had to finally cut him off.\n Most everyone else at our facility has made good financial decisions and have robust 401k's and emergency funds. So, the 'luck' of him getting laid off was his own doing." }, { "id": "t1_okobbag", "author": "/u/FRED3R1CK", "updated": "2026-05-08T17:16:49+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/okobbag/", "content": "Those are the right words: empathy, not guilt.\n My wife and I had 16¢ in the bank in 2010. We retired in 2021. Why? Mostly sacrificing for the future.\n I know what is like to be broke. Flat broke. But I don't feel guilty that I'm not.\n Help if you can. But not at the cost of your own freedom and happiness." }, { "id": "t1_oko7hv1", "author": "/u/Visual_Scientist_298", "updated": "2026-05-08T16:59:59+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/oko7hv1/", "content": "Well put. And we are the same. We have seen many others chose to spend their money on things and activities and we have chosen to save." }, { "id": "t1_oko7r7u", "author": "/u/howtoretireby40", "updated": "2026-05-08T17:01:06+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/oko7r7u/", "content": "you mean sympathy, not empathy. Sympathy is feeling sad for them from a distance. Empathy is feeling it with them. If you're not genuinely sharing in the pain and getting deep in the "messy" with them, it's from a distance. https://www.merriam-webster.com/grammar/sympathy-empathy-difference As Beckham would say, "be honest."\n Edit: you're also confusing the question. No one's saying you should feel guilty for good financial decisions. It's about not helping those in need which ultimately comes down to your deeply PERSONAL value/belief systems and whether you think it's your moral/civic duty or not." }, { "id": "t1_okocqnp", "author": "/u/WristReport", "updated": "2026-05-08T17:23:09+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/okocqnp/", "content": "I'm getting old. I was taught that sympathy is essentially alignment of feelings, or, "I'm having the same/similar emotional response."\n Empathy was akin to, "I understand how and why you feel the way you do. I know what it's like to feel that way- but I'm not having the same emotional response."\n Your response was such a matter of fact inversion of what I understood that I had to look into it. Incredibly the words seem to have meant what I thought they did years ago, but the current accepted usage is practically reversed." }, { "id": "t1_okoe0tq", "author": "/u/ki6dgf", "updated": "2026-05-08T17:28:49+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/okoe0tq/", "content": "Whoa, that’s nuts. Language is so weird" }, { "id": "t1_okp9aao", "author": "/u/Acceptable_Travel_20", "updated": "2026-05-08T19:54:22+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/okp9aao/", "content": "Nope, I mean empathy. Op was talking about friends. I also considered family in my reply. The worst off in my life is a sister who has struggled for many years. I've helped support her financially and tried to give her the best advice I can, but she continues to struggle.\n Edit: I’m not confusing anything. You wrote an entirely different question than what the op asked." }, { "id": "t1_okpc7io", "author": "/u/howtoretireby40", "updated": "2026-05-08T20:08:11+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/okpc7io/", "content": "I think we're saying the same thing. You're not empathizing for "those that are struggling" but a rounding-error sized subset which is your family members who you've helped directly. For effectively the totality of "those that are struggling" (exception of <5 maybe) it's sympathy.\n I'm just very careful when I use word "empathize" or the phrases "I know what you're going through" and "i'm in this with you" as it's very offensive if I don't actually have skin in the game and treating them the way I would want to be treated if roles were switched. A personal nit so apologies. I'll end here and stop bothering you." }, { "id": "t1_okpcowf", "author": "/u/Acceptable_Travel_20", "updated": "2026-05-08T20:10:27+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/okpcowf/", "content": "I am simply answering the original question as it was written. They didn't ask about all the people in the world who are struggling." }, { "id": "t1_okodf59", "author": "/u/hensothor", "updated": "2026-05-08T17:26:10+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/okodf59/", "content": "If we’re talking about the topic of this thread - which is close friends or family who are struggling - then empathy is very likely the correct term.\n Also, there will always be someone in more need than us - drawing that line has to come somewhere. I believe everyone should have a charitable framework for how they manage doing good in the world with their financial surplus and for how they manage family and friend relationships with money. Lots of sustainable ways to manage this." }, { "id": "t1_okof9sw", "author": "/u/ki6dgf", "updated": "2026-05-08T17:34:22+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/okof9sw/", "content": "“Charitable framework”… I was thinking about this the other day. I was imaging a framework something like, as your personal well-offness increases above the mean, your responsibility to help people below the mean increases with some sort of correlation.\n Like a person whose income is 5x average has 5x the responsibility of a person with an average income to do something for others.\n Of course I don’t think you could quantify an exact ratio that is appropriate for everyone. (Though I guess that was kind of the idea behind income tax and social security programs… and yet, the 1% always manages to evade it…)\n Just thinking out loud." }, { "id": "t1_okphne6", "author": "/u/hensothor", "updated": "2026-05-08T20:34:13+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/okphne6/", "content": "I agree that something proportional makes a lot of sense and I include that in my own calculations.\n For my personal framework, I loan to anyone who is in my circle until they don’t repay within my means to do so. And I have a personal amount I’m willing to gift in times of hardship that scales with how well I am doing and I keep private. This makes it a no brainer to help when the occasion arises and only becomes a challenge if multiple people are in need at once." }, { "id": "t1_okp1bno", "author": "/u/howtoretireby40", "updated": "2026-05-08T19:16:02+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/okp1bno/", "content": "That would be very hard to do in my opinion. Can a multi-millionaire on the verge of FI truly feel the same emotions as someone whose reality is that they can’t afford to fix their only mode of transportation they need to get to their job that obviously doesn’t even cover their living expenses all while also saying from the other side of their mouth that “its not my responsibility to help them?”\n Perhaps there is a way to reconcile those 2 realities but I just don’t see how without some serious gymnastics or actually helping them. My mom could be struggling and I could claim I have all the empathy for her in the world but without actually getting involved, I’m still very distanced imo.\n Def agree with the charitable framework concept. Again, we all just have to own the fact that we have a line where on one side we have people you’re willing to help financially and on the other side are those you’re not. I think people are very uncomfortable saying they have this line at all and instead focusing their attention on how far the line for their “thoughts and prayers” or “empathy” are rather than financial line." }, { "id": "t1_okph343", "author": "/u/hensothor", "updated": "2026-05-08T20:31:29+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/okph343/", "content": "I knew this is where you were going with your implications. This is nonsense. Yes - you can absolutely have empathy for someone without “getting involved”. You now have gone far beyond correcting a nuance in definition and are making up your own definition to suit whatever emotional baggage you have going on. Nothing in the definition requires involvement. At all.\n Empathy requires feeling similar emotions for someone as to what they are experiencing. For most, this requires social connection and proximity to feel strongly but it’s not even required then. But of course it can be strengthened by experience - many many many people in the FIRE community are actually motivated by growing up in dire straits and poverty. In fact - most who grew up privileged seem to actively be against FIRE in my experience but that is for sure anecdotal. So they do have an experiential background which would strengthen empathy. Again - that is still not a requirement." }, { "id": "t1_okpo3jh", "author": "/u/howtoretireby40", "updated": "2026-05-08T21:05:54+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/okpo3jh/", "content": "So you just went ahead and straight up skipped the *WEBSTER* definition I provided huh? lol 🙄\n You must be actively sharing IN. THE. EXPERIENCE. “Hey, join us on the roller coaster!” “Nah, I’ll share in the experience via photos later from home though.” Lol, ok\n You can have strong and similar emotions. Wonderful. But that’s literally the definition of sympathy, not empathy." }, { "id": "t1_okoh1sq", "author": "/u/Signal-Call3521", "updated": "2026-05-08T17:42:18+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/okoh1sq/", "content": "This. We’ve made choices that others didn’t to be in the position we’re in." }, { "id": "t1_okom1vq", "author": "/u/Separate-Pea5579", "updated": "2026-05-08T18:04:42+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/okom1vq/", "content": "All the delayed gratification. Not buying depreciating assets like cars. It’s also much easier if you have a spouse. Just not my call. But my wife and I have still helped out when/if the situation is warranted. (Edit: spelling correction)" }, { "id": "t1_okpzbqy", "author": "/u/theBeardedAlaskan", "updated": "2026-05-08T22:04:58+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/okpzbqy/", "content": "If you have a good spouse. A bad spouse will be the worst financial (and other) decision you’ll ever make. A good one will be the best." }, { "id": "t1_okoor38", "author": "/u/bbal20-taru", "updated": "2026-05-08T18:16:57+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/okoor38/", "content": "or about the favor or circumstances you might have had that others didn’t. I work in tech in the Bay Area and contend that many people are rich that happened to be with the right company at the right time aka before stock growth." }, { "id": "t1_oktjya1", "author": "/u/RunsaberSR", "updated": "2026-05-09T13:35:22+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/oktjya1/", "content": "This." }, { "id": "t1_okvnunc", "author": "/u/Pitiful-Attorney-159", "updated": "2026-05-09T20:09:02+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/okvnunc/", "content": "I think guilt is appropriate for a lot of situations, because ultimately while this money comes from hard work and good choices, it also largely comes from an economic system that absolutely emphasizes worker exploitation in the name of profits. That means in the US and overseas. If you are on the FIRE path, you definitely dipped your toes in those waters, because FIRE relies on maximizing your return as a shareholder so you can do less work as a laborer. You definitely benefited from some company's decision to offshore resources to countries with lax labor laws. You can go through the mental gymnastics of modern economies and incentives, the futility of an individual to effect change, etc... At the end of the day, kindergarten teaching and logic says that as a society we didn't learn to share our toys.\n So when I see someone who worked hard but isn't able to get a foothold, for instance a teacher, social worker, struggling academic, etc... who is doing undeniable good for the world... yes I feel guilty. When I think about millions and millions of workers around the world who put in backbreaking days for just enough to survive so that iPhones can be $1500 instead of $2500... yes I feel guilty.\n I rarely feel guilty when comparing myself to friends from my childhood who made a choice to spend a ton on a wedding, vehicles, and a flashy lifestyle, but this is a small portion of the global economy we benefit from." }, { "id": "t1_okoa4bo", "author": "/u/Direct_Remove509", "updated": "2026-05-08T17:11:32+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/okoa4bo/", "content": "This is the way!" }, { "id": "t1_okoiv2w", "author": "/u/Singularity-42", "updated": "2026-05-08T17:50:27+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/okoiv2w/", "content": "I mean, let's be honest, the "good financial choices" is mainly the ability to have a high earning job. I only found out about FIRE a few years ago and I thought "wait, we're not that far away from this at all". Now we are targeting EU-FIRE next year." }, { "id": "t1_oksxpyy", "author": "/u/geomaster", "updated": "2026-05-09T11:11:26+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/oksxpyy/", "content": "this is really inaccurate. if you have a high earning job and never save and spend all your earnings well you're not going to retire early" }, { "id": "t1_oknykxc", "author": "/u/wh0re4nickelback", "updated": "2026-05-08T16:20:09+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/oknykxc/", "content": "Nope. I couldn't afford a pack of lightbulbs when I was 18 because I was working a minimum wage job. I became a single mom. My son is now 20 and my ex owes me $146k in back child support. To say I was on the financial struggle bus is an understatement. I knew something had to change.\n Through a series of smart decisions and hard work, I put myself in a financial position to become a millionaire at 40 and will retire early at 48." }, { "id": "t1_oko4yr9", "author": "/u/PageExtension3962", "updated": "2026-05-08T16:48:50+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/oko4yr9/", "content": "Love your user name. And congrats. Single parent who achieve financial freedom amaze me." }, { "id": "t1_oko1ibm", "author": "/u/FunCryptographer7625", "updated": "2026-05-08T16:33:18+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/oko1ibm/", "content": "very touching, u/wh0re4nickelback" }, { "id": "t1_okqi0vu", "author": "/u/baddad49", "updated": "2026-05-08T23:54:00+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/okqi0vu/", "content": "User name is even funnier when shown with the u/ prefix 😂" }, { "id": "t1_oko5e38", "author": "/u/Zealousideal-Ebb8999", "updated": "2026-05-08T16:50:42+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/oko5e38/", "content": "This is incredible" }, { "id": "t1_okrsmx0", "author": "/u/NaughtAwakened", "updated": "2026-05-09T05:02:28+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/okrsmx0/", "content": "You got lucky. Funny how your original excuses weren't from your actions, but your new found money is purely a result of smart decisions and work.\n This isn't coming from jealousy, I "retired" at 30 but it's hilarious reading all the bragging people in here that don't realize how entitled they are simply because of their citizenship." }, { "id": "t1_oktc6x9", "author": "/u/wh0re4nickelback", "updated": "2026-05-09T12:49:56+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/oktc6x9/", "content": "When you are a full time single parent, work a full time job during the day, go to school online full time in the evenings for an undergrad degree and throw in an overlapping professional education certificate at the same time, then you can tell me that I was "lucky".\n I could have just worked the full time job and struggled. Instead, I chose to take out loans and get an education in a potentially lucrative field. After that, I got experience everywhere I could, took on all the additional education courses I could, volunteered in my field to network and made calculated job hopping moves (all this while continuing to be a singe mom!). So yes, smart decisions and hard work contributed to me getting to the financial place that I am in now. Nobody else did that for me. Luck did not do that for me. I did it for me." }, { "id": "t1_okowlgs", "author": "/u/Useful-Response-5165", "updated": "2026-05-08T18:53:39+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/okowlgs/", "content": "You rock! Happy to see a single mom who did better than 1% of people on the entire planet!" }, { "id": "t1_okrsq9o", "author": "/u/NaughtAwakened", "updated": "2026-05-09T05:03:15+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/okrsq9o/", "content": "Lol.. yeah because someone born in the Congo had a fair chance to be in that calculation. Stupid" }, { "id": "t1_okss2fs", "author": "/u/financialthrowaw2020", "updated": "2026-05-09T10:25:02+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/okss2fs/", "content": "This subreddit isn't the place to discuss the US empire and it's choking of the global south. You're not wrong, just in the wrong venue." }, { "id": "t1_oku9k5h", "author": "/u/henrytbpovid", "updated": "2026-05-09T15:49:26+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/oku9k5h/", "content": "Have you thought about getting a lawyer to claw back all that child support?" }, { "id": "t1_oksy3by", "author": "/u/geomaster", "updated": "2026-05-09T11:14:17+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/oksy3by/", "content": "if your son is an adult and child support of 146k is still owed, then that money should go directly to your son" }, { "id": "t1_oknz3vf", "author": "/u/WildTravel5662", "updated": "2026-05-08T16:22:29+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/oknz3vf/", "content": "We can't save the world. As long as you exist somewhere in the middle you're doing alright - not being greedy, but also not donating all your hard work to everyone else's problems. Its okay to be sad for their situation and grateful for yours.\n I've never regretted helping a friend or donating to a good cause. Help where you can (i.e. if you go out for dinner, offer to pick up the tab) but ultimately everyone's situation is their own to navigate." }, { "id": "t1_oko1mu8", "author": "/u/tyintegra", "updated": "2026-05-08T16:33:52+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/oko1mu8/", "content": "Great perspective!\n I try to do little things here and there to “help” them out. It’s always a fine line to not do too much for them to make them uncomfortable or just start asking for money outright though." }, { "id": "t1_oko681a", "author": "/u/Connect_Fox_8195", "updated": "2026-05-08T16:54:23+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/oko681a/", "content": "I have a separate savings account that I pretty much use for friends in need and charity. I have gifted friends in need with this account and it makes me feel good and helps them out." }, { "id": "t1_oko7gsu", "author": "/u/tyintegra", "updated": "2026-05-08T16:59:51+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/oko7gsu/", "content": "I’m curious how you manage this so they don’t feel uncomfortable or make the relationship awkward at all." }, { "id": "t1_okpkbt3", "author": "/u/WildTravel5662", "updated": "2026-05-08T20:47:13+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/okpkbt3/", "content": "Its going to vary widely between just friends and your CLOSEST friend.\n There's sneaky ways where they barely notice - like when you're heading to their place just pick up pizza. Your treat, no expectation of repayment.\n Another I like to do is we'll alternate who picks up the tab but I'll let them pick up at a coffee shop/quick lunch, and I'll grab the tab at nicer dinners with drinks.\n For events, I tell them not to worry about anything I would have gotten anyways if I'd gone alone (like a concert - they pay for their ticket but I was going to pay for the hotel anyways so I don't split that cost, I just pay).\n For bigger travel, I'll do up an initial budget. If they're good with the price but I know its stretching them, they commit to that price and not a dollar more. They send me that much and I handle everything. It always ends up costing more than that, but they feel like they've paid for it all and dont have to stress. Just did Asia with my partner, dad, and our best friend. Told best friend it would be $4k. Probably cost $5.5k but they dont know that. Trip absolutely wouldn't have been the same without them there, don't regret a penny of it.\n I never offer it to them from a place of charity. Its always "I want to do this and I can't imagine you not being there - therefore my treat."" }, { "id": "t1_okr8q5g", "author": "/u/tyintegra", "updated": "2026-05-09T02:39:30+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/okr8q5g/", "content": "Thanks a lot for the explanation! I will have to start doing these things and also think of other ways that I can be “secretly” helpful." }, { "id": "t1_okt7074", "author": "/u/Current-Aardvark-29", "updated": "2026-05-09T12:17:05+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/okt7074/", "content": "I had some close friends who weren’t struggling but were tight in margin and had just lost a baby after birth, so I called the county tax office and paid their property tax for a year. Don’t think they ever knew it was me. Also you can always leave a blank envelope of cash in their mailbox if they live in a safer neighborhood and just put their names on it. Be creative, there are ways." }, { "id": "t1_okqu1ns", "author": "/u/Connect_Fox_8195", "updated": "2026-05-09T01:07:23+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/okqu1ns/", "content": "When a friend mentions to me that they are short money to do something important to them or that they are behind on a bill, I just Venmo them or write a check without prompting. I love being helpful. I have helped a relative filing for divorce, a friend who is super low income and was having trouble paying for groceries, and a recently laid off friend who was going to miss an annual professional retreat. I never expect repayment, it makes me feel good, and it helps people I love. It’s a one-time thing. They haven’t been embarrassed because they know it’s valuable to me, too." }, { "id": "t1_okqc8m3", "author": "/u/MerelyMisha", "updated": "2026-05-08T23:20:15+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/okqc8m3/", "content": "I don’t have a separate account, but it is a dedicated part of my budget! It’s fun to find ways to use the money!" }, { "id": "t1_oko4f92", "author": "/u/MadPlanets", "updated": "2026-05-08T16:46:24+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/oko4f92/", "content": "I'll make an unpopular post, but your friend would do better if they knew that not going out to dinner, if they can't afford it would be a better lesson for them in the long run. I get where I am today by not going out all the time just to be "social"" }, { "id": "t1_oko0qto", "author": "/u/marklikestolearn", "updated": "2026-05-08T16:29:50+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/oko0qto/", "content": "My brother out earned me for probably 20 years. He has almost zero net worth and little to show for it. Always lived in expensive apartments and eats out 5+ times a week. I’ll retire in 2 years. He’s older btw" }, { "id": "t1_okonp0e", "author": "/u/StrikingCover4114", "updated": "2026-05-08T18:12:10+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/okonp0e/", "content": "Same with all of my family members. They have all made way more money and yet had to ask me for money from time to time. Now when I say I am hoping to retire soon (in my 40s) they look at me like I’m crazy." }, { "id": "t1_oko48k2", "author": "/u/SuperNoise5209", "updated": "2026-05-08T16:45:34+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/oko48k2/", "content": "I work in a mid-size nonprofit. I think 2/3 of my colleagues would be financially wiped out by something in the $5K-$10K range. I have to be really careful what I say sometimes. And, I have to be very aware of the privileges that I have had." }, { "id": "t1_okr6vsi", "author": "/u/Wooden-Buddy-3945", "updated": "2026-05-09T02:27:33+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/okr6vsi/", "content": "I’m curious, why do you think you’re doing SO much better than your colleagues, assuming that you have similar income." }, { "id": "t1_oktrqhs", "author": "/u/SuperNoise5209", "updated": "2026-05-09T14:17:59+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/oktrqhs/", "content": "There are many reasons, but the main thing is that many of our staff are half my age and come from more challenging economic backgrounds. I graduated with no student debt and my parents encouraged me to max a Roth account as soon as I got my first real paycheck. I've never made a ton, but maxing a Roth every year since age 20 adds up." }, { "id": "t1_oknz38b", "author": "/u/notworking4long", "updated": "2026-05-08T16:22:25+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/oknz38b/", "content": "I don’t feel guilty because I worked hard to get where I am (85% to leanfire at 48).\n We all make life choices. Mine were very different from my friends who have struggles. They’ve taken a lot more vacations, had more party nights, and have more expensive houses and cars, while I stayed up late studying, did the 9-5 for decades, and had a good side hustle.\n However I do have enough compassion to buy a drink for those who are struggling from time to time and offer to lend a little to those who I know are good for it." }, { "id": "t1_oko1w83", "author": "/u/Cinderhazed15", "updated": "2026-05-08T16:35:03+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/oko1w83/", "content": "But you always know that what you lend may become a gift, and you are ok with that from the offset" }, { "id": "t1_okqgs0a", "author": "/u/Justjerryj", "updated": "2026-05-08T23:46:42+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/okqgs0a/", "content": "Lend a guy $100 and never see him again, it was money well spent." }, { "id": "t1_oknyypc", "author": "/u/Fjogaseri", "updated": "2026-05-08T16:21:51+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/oknyypc/", "content": "Occasionally when someone I know who is trying, but can’t catch a break, yeah, I feel it. Even if they aren’t friends…\n Most of the time it is someone who vacations a lot, drive an insane car and eat most meals out, not so much. Even if they are friends…" }, { "id": "t1_oko1q31", "author": "/u/Cinderhazed15", "updated": "2026-05-08T16:34:17+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/oko1q31/", "content": "It’s hard when there are systemic things keeping people down, but some of the systems are optional and a result of either hard things to do, obligations, or cost of bad habits coming due.\n Talking to my MiL, I have a 2013 Highlander that last year replaced my 2008 Prius, and she’s like ‘don’t you feel that you need a reliable vehicle that won’t have any problems that won’t leave someone stranded? That’s why I’d always rather have a new vehicle!’ Mine has an issue with the because/heating system where a small leak where the coolant runs through the exhaust slowly lowers the level. 2-3k for the repair, or I’ve used half a gallon of coolant in the past 6 months. ‘Oh, I would have just had it fixed’, and no mater how much I try to explain cost/benefit to her, she always go back to ‘I want to feel safe with everything ‘fixed’ ‘" }, { "id": "t1_okofcwe", "author": "/u/Good-Ad6688", "updated": "2026-05-08T17:34:45+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/okofcwe/", "content": "People tell themselves that to cope with their vehicle decisions. Meanwhile most 10 year old cars nowadays are totally safe to drive. Are there better options? Yes. Are there cooler options? Yes. But sometimes the 10 year old cars is the right choice" }, { "id": "t1_okphaie", "author": "/u/One-Space9984", "updated": "2026-05-08T20:32:29+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/okphaie/", "content": "I agree. It's just a car." }, { "id": "t1_okpmopy", "author": "/u/eddiebagaboo", "updated": "2026-05-08T20:58:50+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/okpmopy/", "content": "This! The same mentality is in my family. I drive a 15-year-old car and every once in a while I do I have to put a few hundred dollars in repairs or service - last year a couple of thousand on a burnt heater coil. All is hear is “I’d get rid of it if I were you”. Most do not know what it’s like to live without a car payment. Why would I go spend 70 or $80,000 for a new car to avoid a $ 2000 repair. they don’t get it." }, { "id": "t1_oknyoa4", "author": "/u/SardukarFinance", "updated": "2026-05-08T16:20:33+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/oknyoa4/", "content": "I get that.\n Are you in that situation because you make way more than them? Or have you spent years spending less than them and investing instead?\n If they’re taking out loans because they spent 3x more on their house than you did, maybe that knowledge can help reduce your guilt a little.\n But if they’re just poor - are you in a position where you could help them?" }, { "id": "t1_oko0w4n", "author": "/u/tyintegra", "updated": "2026-05-08T16:30:29+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/oko0w4n/", "content": "They make a decent amount of money (not that much less than I do. I think it’s just because they just live beyond their means and make a lot of purchases based on FOMO." }, { "id": "t1_okrmr27", "author": "/u/zephyr2015", "updated": "2026-05-09T04:17:03+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/okrmr27/", "content": "Why feel bad about people like that?" }, { "id": "t1_oko1i48", "author": "/u/TrashPanda_924", "updated": "2026-05-08T16:33:16+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/oko1i48/", "content": "I feel exactly 0% guilty. When my friends bought bass boats or went skiing on the weekends, I was getting anew certification or in grad school.\n I don’t feel guilty about their choices; rather I feel very good about mine." }, { "id": "t1_oloayjo", "author": "/u/Zealousideal-Fix2256", "updated": "2026-05-14T00:53:34+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/oloayjo/", "content": "if they took you fishing with them, and you enjoyed it. Then you should feel at least 2% guilty" }, { "id": "t1_olod406", "author": "/u/TrashPanda_924", "updated": "2026-05-14T01:05:15+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/olod406/", "content": "Lol, they didn’t offer because they knew I was cranking. Good point, though!" }, { "id": "t1_okoo7q7", "author": "/u/OchoGringo", "updated": "2026-05-08T18:14:30+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/okoo7q7/", "content": "I think it is good that we continue to care about others despite our good fortune.\n I remembering quips that Warren Buffett made over the years when people talk about brilliant he is with money. Buffett said that he was very lucky to be born in a good family with a father who was a stockbroker. And if he had been born in poverty to a struggling family he would not be where he is today. Yet, people dismiss this and go on talking about how brilliant Warren is.\n I think it helps to recognize that there are things outside of our control. We can control our money and job choices. But we can’t fix the world and other people’s problems.\n It’s also within our control to be kind and understanding of others and to make charitable donations. And, as Bill Gates has shown, when you have a lot of money you can do big things for others—like wipe out entire diseases in Africa. I think with more money comes more responsibility. And we can try not to be like those who become more selfish with more money." }, { "id": "t1_oktj9kz", "author": "/u/itsacalamity", "updated": "2026-05-09T13:31:27+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/oktj9kz/", "content": "ALso: you can be lucky AND smart. You can be lucky AND hardworking. You can be lucky AND deserve what you've made for yourself. The one doesn't disqualify the other. And so many of us owe a lot to luck and circumstances we don't always acknowledge." }, { "id": "t1_okuuxy7", "author": "/u/Montaigne_6823", "updated": "2026-05-09T17:37:07+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/okuuxy7/", "content": "And if he had been born in poverty to a struggling family he would not be where he is today. Yet, people dismiss this and go on talking about how brilliant Warren is.\n I read an interesting article once saying that for a family to escape a cycle of poverty they typically need about 20 years of good luck." }, { "id": "t1_oknzyht", "author": "/u/MariSoumis", "updated": "2026-05-08T16:26:18+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/oknzyht/", "content": "I have several family members that are in that type of situation. It has definitely produced some guilt for me. But also, a comparable amount of annoyance when I've seen them dumping thousands down the drain for stuff I refused to spend on.\n In the end, you can't really impact the path other people have followed, and most of them wouldn't change it now even if you told them how." }, { "id": "t1_oko65un", "author": "/u/thcitizgoalz", "updated": "2026-05-08T16:54:07+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/oko65un/", "content": "Yep. I have an extended family member who "can't" pay their cell phone bill and it's cut off constantly, but drops $3K on a new puppy.\n Um..." }, { "id": "t1_oko3558", "author": "/u/tyintegra", "updated": "2026-05-08T16:40:41+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/oko3558/", "content": "This is very much my experience as well.\n Even though they are struggling, they refuse to make any changes to get better." }, { "id": "t1_okof5fg", "author": "/u/eelsexmystery", "updated": "2026-05-08T17:33:50+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/okof5fg/", "content": "You can't change them. I've helped my best friends out when they really needed it, but I see it as a gift and not a loan (they fully intend to pay me back, but I know that I'll be the last to ever get paid since they already have other more pressing debts). One friend paid me back years later (with a small amount of interest), one died. If you aren't willing to take it as a write off don't loan them money." }, { "id": "t1_okr21lz", "author": "/u/cubixguy77", "updated": "2026-05-09T01:57:07+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/okr21lz/", "content": "You know what they say, you can lead a horse to water, but you can't make it live within its means and invest in diversified mutual funds." }, { "id": "t1_oknzq92", "author": "/u/Immediate-Ad-9520", "updated": "2026-05-08T16:25:17+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/oknzq92/", "content": "Yes and no. We haven’t gone into details with friends or family but I’m confident we have significantly more. But while we were aggressively paying off debt, not going to restaurants or concerts, and generally just living as cheaply as possible, they were traveling, eating out, and generally just spending a ton. I was so jealous and cried many times during those days. Now, we have 1.75M, my husband is a SAHD, and we live well off of my income. We could stop saving now and be totally fine. I’m hoping to retire in a few years.\n It’s a tough balance, but you made sacrifices and made choices that led you to where you are, and they did the same. To each their own." }, { "id": "t1_oko1a7q", "author": "/u/wtf-am-I-doing-69", "updated": "2026-05-08T16:32:16+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/oko1a7q/", "content": "I do not feel guilty\n That does not mean I am not sympathetic\n It also doesn't mean I am not aware. We choose places to go and things to do with friends partially based on their financial situation. With some we do bars and bowling etc with others we do fine dining and theater. Then co-mingle them all for bbq at the house etc.\n We definitely make sure the bill tilts our way vs theirs, but it is because we enjoy spending time with them and want to do things with them.\n So guilty - no, considerate and inclusive - yes" }, { "id": "t1_oko81uq", "author": "/u/No-Test-2993", "updated": "2026-05-08T17:02:24+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/oko81uq/", "content": "We have a relative who has always been generous with their resources towards us and others, but their lack of personal finance skills is currently biting them in the ass now that they're over 70. I am determined to continue my father's annual tax-free gift to them, but I am furious with other relatives who have also benefited from the largesse of this now-poor relation, but are refusing to help them, citing their own poor money management skills, even though they are also getting advances on their inheritance from my father. So I feel some responsibility towards the first relative, I mentioned, but zero guilt towards others who had access to the same libraries and blogs that I did, and failed to educate themselves." }, { "id": "t1_oko2etj", "author": "/u/Sad-Committee-4902", "updated": "2026-05-08T16:37:23+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/oko2etj/", "content": "All I am doing is securing my own oxygen mask first. I struggled for decades. I passed on big luxuries, travel, larger homes, etc. I made a plan and stuck to it. Im in the position because of that plan, hard work, a thrifty lifestyle, a lot of good luck and tbh a little bad luck.\n I am doing FIRE because i want that fear in my gut to stop. I never want to be in a position where i lose my home, wonder where my next meal is coming, or am at a loss on how to care for my family." }, { "id": "t1_oko5klw", "author": "/u/thcitizgoalz", "updated": "2026-05-08T16:51:31+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/oko5klw/", "content": "Many years ago, a teenage family member made an offhand comment about how "lucky" my husband and I were that he had a high-paying job, and we got an inheritance (it was mid-5 figures, no complaints, but not trust fund baby money).\n I could tell she was repeating what she'd heard from her mom.\n I gently pointed out that 1) her dad had received an inheritance 4x what I'd received about 5 years before I got mine and 2) Her dad and mom made exactly the same amount of money my husband and I made.\n She thought for a moment, and realized she knew he made what my household made, but hadn't put that comparison together. And she knew about her dad's inheritance, "But he got screwed over" on it by other family members. That was the rhetoric he used when he "lost" around $200K in properties and physical assets that were supposed to be his, but he never hired a lawyer to push back against illegal actions from various family member executors (we'd encouraged him and he just wouldn't).\n I told her he had chosen not to hire a lawyer to help, and that my own inheritance had some family members of mine who tried to screw me and a couple of others over, but using a lawyer was the difference.\n In the course of an hour's talk, we discussed how *choices* make the difference even when *money* is the same.\n Her dad and mom bought expensive new cars all the time, had lots of "toys" (jet ski, 4 wheelers, etc.), didn't save for retirement, ate out nearly every day, got upside-down on car loans and bought a new car "because I deserve it and life's too short," etc.\n She came away from that conversation realizing my family got the same inheritance amount and had the same household income, but we had radically different lives.\n I think about that conversation a LOT, nearly 20 years later, as I watch her mom and dad and how little they have. The rhetoric is "poor me, life screwed me over" and not "I made poor choices."\n The niece owns her own home, has a solid job and a degree, and has lapped her parents. That has nothing to do with our talk - she's just a young woman who chose to live the opposite of what they modeled.\n It's normal to feel guilty when friends/family don't have the good outcomes you have, because you identify with being in their peer group and care about them. But they made those choices, and especially when you try to offer information - not even advice, just information - and it goes unheard, or worse - you're MOCKED for being frugal (we were by these family members), then the guilt really is misplaced." }, { "id": "t1_okplcq0", "author": "/u/Exotic_Appointment25", "updated": "2026-05-08T20:52:15+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/okplcq0/", "content": "The last part got me. We, too, were mocked & told we were cheap. My husbands’ own mom tried to say her son was stingy I guess since he doesn’t just fork over money anymore like he used to when he was younger when they were irresponsible with their own money. They had windfalls of thousands at a time & always blew it, not on us either lol. Started noticing she was getting rid of extras like the dvr boxes they didn’t even use or other adjustments & I laughed & said what happened? Finally realize you didn’t need that stuff? Her response was things are just getting so expensive. I’ve always told her I look for the deals, shop around & such to save & would get laughed at, now she was doing the same. They see now that we’re able to afford an even more expensive house when we had to move for work & live in a VHCOL on one income & don’t say things like that to me anymore lol. We’ve never asked them for help like his other siblings. She just knows I’m ’strict with our money’ so it works lol. I tell her all the time I budget for things. No more silly comments. 🤣" }, { "id": "t1_okskiuv", "author": "/u/angry-gardenia", "updated": "2026-05-09T09:16:51+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/okskiuv/", "content": "Luck is what happens when preparation meets opportunity." }, { "id": "t1_oko1coy", "author": "/u/deathdealer351", "updated": "2026-05-08T16:32:34+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/oko1coy/", "content": "Nope.. People I know went on vacations and lived it up.. All through their 20s and 30s.. They have vices that even today go beyond their income.\n Ive lived below, well below my means... I rather than doing vacations.. Paid off my house by 40 so I can be debt free..\n They made choices that put them where they are. I made choices that put me where I am. I did nothing special other than.. No car loan over 300 per month, pay off house early, no credit card debts, 20 years of my working life no vacation over 2000 for the year... Many years.. We spent 0 cause we stayed home. DIY as much as you can.. Example ac cap will run you 800 for a tech to replace it. 100 for you.. I did my own oil changes for decades it's not hard.\n Now here is something I do offer.. I can help you evaluate your finances.. I had someone take me up on it. 6 months they went from a 630ish credit score to a 780.. Paid off all their shit.. Went from circling the drain to having an emergency fund and seeing their bills come down cause their credit score was higher.\n But most people don't want to go over it live tight and create a budget.. So complain I'll listen offer is always there.. I can teach you to fish.." }, { "id": "t1_okucyt3", "author": "/u/Nyssa_aquatica", "updated": "2026-05-09T16:06:38+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/okucyt3/", "content": "I like that idea. If someone complains about how much money you have compared to them, you simply offer to set them down and show them how you do it so they can do it too!" }, { "id": "t1_oko397i", "author": "/u/gregaustex", "updated": "2026-05-08T16:41:12+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/oko397i/", "content": "Guilty? Not at all.\n We all make tradeoffs. Sure, there's luck (and I'm subject to the whims of fate now and until I die like anyone), but most of the people I know in more precarious financial situations than I am made fewer sacrifices, were more careless and shortsighted, and generally lived more lavishly than I did over the time I knew them. It all balances out more or less. I know the cost to me at least of what I now have in terms of effort, deprivation and stress, and I will now savor the fruits to the fullest extent possible, or it was all for nothing.\n I'm talking about my neighbor who goes skiing 2x year, has a house full of beautiful and expensive things, and who is in debt living (fat) paycheck to paycheck. Maybe also the guys I went to college with who did nothing but party and now they are getting by on more modest incomes with no prospect of retiring early. I'm not talking about people born in genuinely disadvantaged circumstances or who have suffered tragedies. One of my privileges now is deciding I can help some of them out in some way." }, { "id": "t1_oko4dx8", "author": "/u/Flashy_Author_9620", "updated": "2026-05-08T16:46:15+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/oko4dx8/", "content": "I'm not sure guilty is the exact word, but kinda. The whole "we all have the same possibilities" toxic BS is rubbish. Some have abilities that others have not - some have circumstances not afforded others. We are not all equally smart, hard working or great at making a plan at sticking to it.\n So I guess it depends on the specifics. Is your friend at fault? Has he been spending his money recklessly refusing to work hard or are we talking about a man whos circumstances have shaped his life? Sure, he should have some money tucked away. But has he really had the chance?\n I just don't really enjoy the whole judgy thing that seems to be so prevalent amongst those of us who were dilligent and smart with our money. Be kind. I'm sure more people would do better if they knew better. Random rant over." }, { "id": "t1_okpmv08", "author": "/u/Exotic_Appointment25", "updated": "2026-05-08T20:59:42+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/okpmv08/", "content": "You’re forgetting the judgy comments that are made to us along our journey as well. And the ppl making said judgy comments are squandering their own money away from themselves due to no delayed gratification. I don’t feel bad in those circumstances. I’ve tried to have talks with them when they complain about their finances & am met with excuses as to why they can’t do it. We started off with a small income & even then I was paying off debt & saving something before I started investing. Smaller incomes can make it, too, remember. It’s not how much you make, rather how much you can keep. Expenses can be adjusted. It’s a choice. Either make more or spend less. Most can’t grasp that easily. We did & now are reaping the benefits of our youthful labor." }, { "id": "t1_okpnhbr", "author": "/u/Flashy_Author_9620", "updated": "2026-05-08T21:02:48+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/okpnhbr/", "content": "Nobody has ever been anything but nice to me so I have no chip on my shoulder. I prefer to be the bigger man if I have the chance." }, { "id": "t1_okprfqh", "author": "/u/Exotic_Appointment25", "updated": "2026-05-08T21:23:01+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/okprfqh/", "content": "Well that’s very nice to have understanding ppl all around you. Coming from a poverty background & no one showing how or what to do is what propelled us into doing better. Didn’t want to be stuck in the same cycle. I got lots of comments about how I thought I was better than everyone else due to us being disciplined on budget & saving + staying the course. I was never the one telling them stuff. They were telling me or others about me, rather. Stings a little. All I’ve done is try to share the knowledge & what to do, but am met with all kinds of excuses so I let it go & let them do what they want. It doesn’t affect me one bit. A person has to want it themselves before they’ll listen. Different ppl have different experiences. Glad yours was better." }, { "id": "t1_oko7szu", "author": "/u/bk2947", "updated": "2026-05-08T17:01:19+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/oko7szu/", "content": "I will vote for higher taxes on myself to support social programs. As long as everyone above me pays more. Not theoretically tax bracket more, actually more." }, { "id": "t1_okqdjcn", "author": "/u/MerelyMisha", "updated": "2026-05-08T23:27:45+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/okqdjcn/", "content": "Yep. I work towards systemic solutions (even if they cost me, like higher taxes), because it’s a systemic problem. I will give money individually as well, but that’s often more of a bandaid solution, so I don’t do it so much that I’m not putting my own oxygen mask first." }, { "id": "t1_oko35kw", "author": "/u/toofarfromjune", "updated": "2026-05-08T16:40:44+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/oko35kw/", "content": "Not even once. I have tons of those acquaintances(as they should be downgraded to from friend as you carry on with your life), and none of them got up for work at 4am like I did, they had cooler cars than me when we were young, they partied harder than me, the list goes on.\n I earned the hot smart wife, happy content kids, paid off house, fun af cars, and beach vacations with an early retirement. I just wish people knew how fast the 20s and 30s go by and how critical those years are. Opportunity flows like Niagara Falls at those ages if you are on your A game, they decided to spin their wheels chilling and then spend the rest of their lives playing catch up." }, { "id": "t1_okud8zr", "author": "/u/Nyssa_aquatica", "updated": "2026-05-09T16:08:05+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/okud8zr/", "content": "To be sure, a wife isn’t an appliance that you earn with money." }, { "id": "t1_okv5shi", "author": "", "updated": "2026-05-09T18:31:50+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/okv5shi/", "content": "[deleted]" }, { "id": "t1_okv5yh1", "author": "/u/Nyssa_aquatica", "updated": "2026-05-09T18:32:42+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/okv5yh1/", "content": "I was responding to what you did actually say.\n Also, did you realize you just made an irrelevant personal attack? That can look quite small." }, { "id": "t1_okvd3ff", "author": "/u/toofarfromjune", "updated": "2026-05-09T19:10:18+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/okvd3ff/", "content": "As if your passive projection wasn’t a personal attack on my marriage. Classic Reddit gaslighting lol." }, { "id": "t1_okve9ff", "author": "/u/Nyssa_aquatica", "updated": "2026-05-09T19:16:30+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/okve9ff/", "content": "I think you’ll find I made a general observation, based on your statement which literally characterized a “hot smart wife” as something ypu “earn” with money. Does the observation apply to you? That’s for you to decide." }, { "id": "t1_okvonlx", "author": "/u/toofarfromjune", "updated": "2026-05-09T20:13:29+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/okvonlx/", "content": "Doubling down on the gaslight with a side of fictional interpretation that never happened, exceptional! Nothing was ever said by me about money earning a wife, it was a disgusting projection, this isn’t the 1940s." }, { "id": "t1_okvrnsj", "author": "/u/Nyssa_aquatica", "updated": "2026-05-09T20:29:56+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/okvrnsj/", "content": "“I earned the hot smart wife”\n Direct quote … in answer to Op’s question about money" }, { "id": "t1_okvs54k", "author": "/u/toofarfromjune", "updated": "2026-05-09T20:32:33+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/okvs54k/", "content": "Yes and once again, there is more than one way to earn things in life, especially companionship. Reddit gonna Reddit." }, { "id": "t1_okvsjdl", "author": "/u/Nyssa_aquatica", "updated": "2026-05-09T20:34:42+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/okvsjdl/", "content": "You chose this as your first example of why you don’t feel guilty about money in relation to other people - the question you were responding to. This wasn’t a relationship question." }, { "id": "t1_okvu1x5", "author": "/u/Nyssa_aquatica", "updated": "2026-05-09T20:42:57+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/okvu1x5/", "content": "And I’m so glad you agree so wholeheartedly with my entire orginal point - that a wife is not an appliance to be earned with money. Why, you practically said it yourself!" }, { "id": "t1_okvd2nh", "author": "/u/DuvishLabs", "updated": "2026-05-09T19:10:11+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/okvd2nh/", "content": "Rule 1/Civility - Civility is required of everyone at all times. If someone else is uncivil, then please report them and let the mods handle it without escalation. Please see our rules ( https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/about/rules/ ) and reach out via modmail if you have any questions or concerns." }, { "id": "t1_oko578z", "author": "", "updated": "2026-05-08T16:49:52+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/oko578z/", "content": "[deleted]" }, { "id": "t1_okqzuj0", "author": "/u/anothertypicalcmmnt", "updated": "2026-05-09T01:43:33+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/okqzuj0/", "content": "There was a psychology experiment done at UC Berkeley confirming your first point. There's a summary of it in this blog post . People want to attribute their success to themselves." }, { "id": "t1_okunn7h", "author": "/u/ScaryRatio8540", "updated": "2026-05-09T17:01:02+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/okunn7h/", "content": "It’s funny how people are so focused on “hard work” when just a little bit of financial literacy and discipline will have 10x the impact" }, { "id": "t1_okokk3l", "author": "/u/diverdawg", "updated": "2026-05-08T17:57:56+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/okokk3l/", "content": "No. Absolutely not. When they bought a large house, I did not. When they bought a new car, I did not. When they ran up their credit cards, I did not.\n I retired at 50 and live in a nice house. I also bought a vacation house on an island and a new car." }, { "id": "t1_okopx3d", "author": "/u/newwriter365", "updated": "2026-05-08T18:22:22+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/okopx3d/", "content": "I don’t feel guilty at all. I’m driving a 2013 Honda with 130k miles on it and living in a neighborhood I can barely stand, but don’t have a mortgage.\n People make choices every day. We all need to own our part in our situation." }, { "id": "t1_okovruo", "author": "/u/Emily4571962", "updated": "2026-05-08T18:49:48+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/okovruo/", "content": "I feel sad when friends/fam are in a pinch, but not guilty. I got my first job at 13 and retired a couple weeks before my 53rd birthday. 40 years of work is more than enough." }, { "id": "t1_okqbmoj", "author": "/u/Barista_life__", "updated": "2026-05-08T23:16:46+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/okqbmoj/", "content": "Not at all. My friends, who are all struggling now, spent their 20s going out to clubs… the way I see it is that life is about decisions. I worked for where I am, so I feel zero guilt" }, { "id": "t1_oko1f4k", "author": "/u/quietly_compounding", "updated": "2026-05-08T16:32:54+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/oko1f4k/", "content": "I used to be that guy in the friend group. You can make decisions/choices for them.\n You have to worry about you and your family. I do understand that feeling but at some point you have to realize they did to themselves.\n The best thing you can do is educate them about your decisions - but that may not go the best. Money is such a touchy subject amongst friends" }, { "id": "t1_oko2ht0", "author": "/u/ziggy-tiggy-bagel", "updated": "2026-05-08T16:37:45+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/oko2ht0/", "content": "You can't save everyone from their financial issues. I have a friend I have know since high school. Got pregnant senior year, you came guess the rest of the story.. We are in out late 60's and she is poor as dirt. She needed knee surgery and the Dr said she had to pay her co-pay before he would operate. That year I got a large unexpected bonus at work. I told her I was going to donate most of it to charity anyway, so I will send you the co pay amount. This way it come off as an unexpected windfall that I was sharing with her, instead of just giving her money. She never asked for more. Surgery was successful. But on a normal basis, I don't give money to friends." }, { "id": "t1_oko49ga", "author": "/u/Automatic_Glass5632", "updated": "2026-05-08T16:45:41+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/oko49ga/", "content": "You should not feel guilty. There are so many in this world struggling. There are also a lot more people that are in a way better position than you. Accept your reality." }, { "id": "t1_oko4efv", "author": "/u/GiveThemNada", "updated": "2026-05-08T16:46:18+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/oko4efv/", "content": "I do have moments of having conflicting feelings or sincere empathy for my friends who struggle.\n That said, many of my friends I've had for over a decade, and I know the history of the different choices we made led to this outcome. I scrimped and saved. They spent and spent. I avoided debt like the plague; they bought expensive cars, new clothes, and houses they can't really afford.\n There's this idea of "seeing other people as trees" - instead of judging a tree, we merely notice that this tree has long droopy branches, this one is tall and spiky, etc. etc. Another tree being different than "my tree" is not something to feel bad about or internalize.\n Edit - another kinda cringe new age thought is, you can't save people from their karma. You cannot interfere with the consequences of people's actions. It's wrong to interrupt the natural consequences of the decisions of others. It's right to help someone who is reaching out for help, but it's important that the help is teaching them to fish and to make sure you aren't being taken advantage of.\n Completely separately, we do need a better safety net for people. I know a couple of people who are in terrible financial straits because of illness, disability, or bad luck.\n I don't feel guilt, but I do find it's a good opportunity to reflect on my privileges and luck, and to encourage me to be more proactive in terms of researching political candidates/bills, voting in every election, supporting causes I believe in, donating to charities, etc." }, { "id": "t1_okoik1m", "author": "/u/Ok_Location7161", "updated": "2026-05-08T17:49:04+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/okoik1m/", "content": "Well, one day they taking loans. Next day you see them on vacation in Hawaii. Im desolutioned by today's economy and just doing my own thing." }, { "id": "t1_okp5rk7", "author": "/u/creepy-farter", "updated": "2026-05-08T19:37:35+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/okp5rk7/", "content": "Sure I get a twinge.\n Then I start recalling:\n All those days I brought my coffee to work in a thermos cup, brown bagged my lunch. Took cheaper vacations while they went to tropical island all inclusive resorts or to Cancun.\n Drove one car for 18 years while others got new cars every 3 or 4 years. Always bought used cars for years and drove the wheels off of them.\n Spent time researching investments and learning how to grow my wealth while they were goofing off.\n Took every extra bit of income I could so I could pay off debt quicker or so I could save more. Worked weekends bartending etc.\n They could have taken the same path. Many of them were partying and spending every paycheck. For me all it took was a little restraint, or a little more friction in my life.\n Now I spend what I want as I’m FI and can cost to retirement." }, { "id": "t1_okpfv7x", "author": "/u/tbcboo", "updated": "2026-05-08T20:25:41+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/okpfv7x/", "content": "I don’t feel guilty at all. I feel empathy toward friends in situations though. No guilt at all. Why would I?" }, { "id": "t1_okq1gsi", "author": "/u/dic_wagner", "updated": "2026-05-08T22:17:05+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/okq1gsi/", "content": "I am retiring in 3 weeks at 45, I let the cat out of the bag. They acted like I was lucky this and that. I told them I my wife and I have been planning this and making decisions to get to this point for 13 years. Like they watched the last hundred yards of a marathon." }, { "id": "t1_okqklgt", "author": "/u/Dxbr72", "updated": "2026-05-09T00:09:21+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/okqklgt/", "content": "That is really a great way to describe it. All the training, preparation and sacrifice that went into your success aren’t visible. Just the end result. Congrats by the way! 👏👏👏" }, { "id": "t1_okqyoex", "author": "/u/MaxwellSmart07", "updated": "2026-05-09T01:36:20+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/okqyoex/", "content": "Guilty? No way.\n I was invited to be a very minor partner in an ongoing small motel business with 3 motels. When my fiancée wanted to move to back to her home in Sydney I realized something. I could retireI if I negotiated a pension.\n $81K for 16 years. That would save the business $60k a year compared to my annual compensation. They bit. I flew the coup. That was a coup de grace! Celebration! 👏👏👏\n ps: 23 years later the motels have all been sold because they were failing, and the other three partners are my age (77) and still working." }, { "id": "t1_oksjx5f", "author": "/u/Astraltraumagarden", "updated": "2026-05-09T09:10:52+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/oksjx5f/", "content": "From a friend who's on the other side: Don't feel guilty! You put in the work, I didn't! (given I had mostly the same privileges). What are you going to do about it, sometimes shit doesn't work out. I make 100k, live in a VHCOL area, rent @ >30% of salary, used to eat out every meal, spent recklessly on stupid shit, tons of subscriptions, went into debt even when I was making 2x for a short period. Now that I'm serious about cash, I feel mad at myself, not others. Of course, if you can help friends, help them. I wouldn't ask. I just stopped paying for other people's meals and I feel like a fraud. But that's me.\n But also, I want to be spared the empathy, the sympathy. I made poor choices, I'll take it like a grown up, save your furrowed eyebrows. Let's just be grateful for your position, and that rest of live and learn, and hopefully earn and retire soon too." }, { "id": "t1_oko2xl3", "author": "/u/MurkyTrainer7953", "updated": "2026-05-08T16:39:44+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/oko2xl3/", "content": "I am happy to teach my friends how to be financially literate but will not “loan” them money." }, { "id": "t1_oko3ql0", "author": "/u/tyintegra", "updated": "2026-05-08T16:43:20+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/oko3ql0/", "content": "I really try to teach people about finances, but almost all of them just don’t listen. 🤷‍♂️\n I have been tempted to give/loan money, but I realize that they would definitely not change their habits so it wouldn’t actually help them at all." }, { "id": "t1_oko3ghl", "author": "/u/pineapple_sling", "updated": "2026-05-08T16:42:06+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/oko3ghl/", "content": "Your feelings are not going to magically create more dollars in your friend’s bank account" }, { "id": "t1_oko3nld", "author": "/u/ept_engr", "updated": "2026-05-08T16:42:58+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/oko3nld/", "content": "I think you can feel fortunate without feeling guilty. Everyone's life circumstances are different in terms of not just money, but health, relationships, happiness, fulfillment, etc. We're each on our own journey." }, { "id": "t1_oko4wlt", "author": "/u/When_I_Grow_Up_50ish", "updated": "2026-05-08T16:48:34+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/oko4wlt/", "content": "You may have outgrown some friends. Find your new tribe." }, { "id": "t1_oko4z6t", "author": "/u/Enough-Breakfast6163", "updated": "2026-05-08T16:48:53+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/oko4z6t/", "content": "Yeah because when you realize retirement is optional at 41 while people around you are stressed over a transmission repair it makes the gap feel very real even if you earned your position responsibly" }, { "id": "t1_oko5edq", "author": "/u/FakeOkie", "updated": "2026-05-08T16:50:44+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/oko5edq/", "content": "I do feel for those who are in certain situations and positions where it's going to be an ongoing uphill battle. Especially for those who are providing for parents and children at the same time, in addition to their partner, and potentially their own physical/mental ailments.\n This period is often called "the messy middle," and it can be a very trying time for some. In general, I try to keep that in mind when I'm doing really well, that this situation and position can change and may not last forever." }, { "id": "t1_okoex48", "author": "/u/Theburritolyfe", "updated": "2026-05-08T17:32:49+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/okoex48/", "content": "I live a simple life. I'll retire in my 50s if I want to. Late 40s might be possible if a few things line up. That's why I buy dinner when I eat out with friends. They know I do better than them in some ways. I'm single and have no kids.\n Honestly I have played around with opening up a 529 as a graduation present for my friends kid. $10 a week wouldn't change much for me but a decade of that would set a good kid up better than I was for college. I just don't know where to even start though." }, { "id": "t1_okoghig", "author": "/u/Difficult_Step9372", "updated": "2026-05-08T17:39:48+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/okoghig/", "content": "Capitalism induced survivors guilt. The system is evil. You are lucky to be in a good place. Doesn't mean you have to feel guilty; it was still your own effort that put you there" }, { "id": "t1_okoilaf", "author": "/u/brandnewday26", "updated": "2026-05-08T17:49:14+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/okoilaf/", "content": "Guilt implies that you have something to do with their misfortune.\n You can be sympathetic to their plight while not feeling responsible for it. You've encountered and overcome your own challenges and burdens - the burdens of others is not for you to bear." }, { "id": "t1_okoqwzx", "author": "/u/Future_Grapefruit607", "updated": "2026-05-08T18:27:02+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/okoqwzx/", "content": "Unmmm, no. They can make the same sacrifices and have chosen not to." }, { "id": "t1_okorr9r", "author": "/u/That-SoCal-Guy", "updated": "2026-05-08T18:30:55+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/okorr9r/", "content": "No. I do have empathy for them -- a friend of mine, about the same age, had a mile stroke, and got laid off the same year and he was stressing out because he didn't have reserve to even pay his mortgage. Fortunately he found another job (less pay, but it's still a job) in less than 5 months. I felt for him, of course. And I helped out when I could. that's what being a friend is about.\n But at the same time, I don't feel "guilty." Why should I? Did anyone feel guilty when I lost my job? Did anyone feel guilty when I lost $$$ when the market went down? We all have our own journeys. Should the people who have $MMM feel guilty that I don't?\n I really don't understand why this is even a question." }, { "id": "t1_okpo3vk", "author": "/u/ragg5th", "updated": "2026-05-08T21:05:57+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/okpo3vk/", "content": "I saved to get where I am at, it was always a choice I made. Other people made other choices. It is alway better to be envied than pitied." }, { "id": "t1_okqte05", "author": "/u/UptownSeries", "updated": "2026-05-09T01:03:19+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/okqte05/", "content": "Nah you're still a little fish in a big pond. Many would see your situation and feel bad, too" }, { "id": "t1_okr21dq", "author": "/u/Lakers122879", "updated": "2026-05-09T01:57:05+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/okr21dq/", "content": "Don’t feel bad. You made sacrifices and have been disciplined all these years. You have lived below your means and had a goal in life. And you’ve reached that goal. Life is not easy for anyone. There’s always a way to make more money, cut back on spending and sacrificing. We are all fortunate to have the wealth that we may have. But we achieved it through hard work and discipline. It’s important to be humble about it with others that are less fortunate and hopefully educate them if they want the advice. But never feel bad for your financial accomplishments. You deserve every bit of it." }, { "id": "t1_okrkcql", "author": "/u/Fit_Interaction_79", "updated": "2026-05-09T03:59:40+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/okrkcql/", "content": "We are not FIRE but will retire on enough for comfort if things stay as they are for us. I had a friend who is single and didn’t buy real estate when it was affordable because she wanted to stay in the city rather than moving to where she could afford. She asked me for $60 and said she would pay me back on payday but didn’t. Three weeks later still waiting. I don’t feel guilty asking for the money back although I can afford to lose it. Friends don’t utilise each other like that." }, { "id": "t1_oksaue4", "author": "/u/HenryLoggins", "updated": "2026-05-09T07:42:01+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/oksaue4/", "content": "I don’t feel guilty, I worked hard and planned my retirement. I don’t want to see my friends struggle- but I also struggled to get where I’m at in life. They certainly don’t feel bad for me. 6 of one, half dozen of the other." }, { "id": "t1_oksihgs", "author": "/u/Pointlesspuppy", "updated": "2026-05-09T08:55:23+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/oksihgs/", "content": "I'm much younger and not even close to being close to retiring yet, but I feel the same way. Sometimes friends will talk about struggling to be able to pay for rent, not having money to hang out (even for inexpensive activities, like not being able to afford gas to drive across town, or not being able to afford to go thrifting) and I feel badly.\n I tell myself maybe one day if I have enough money I'll take care of everyone's bills for them when hanging out so I can just take people to do fun stuff and they don't have to worry about it." }, { "id": "t1_okt0cwv", "author": "/u/tyintegra", "updated": "2026-05-09T11:31:20+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/okt0cwv/", "content": "I was in a similar situation in college. In my group of friends there was one that was always unable to go because they didn’t have money (not because they were blowing the money they had), so the rest of the group would cover for them occasionally because the experience would just be better with them there." }, { "id": "t1_okt8ls5", "author": "/u/Specialist-Basis8218", "updated": "2026-05-09T12:27:22+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/okt8ls5/", "content": "I used to. I felt like it was too easy, or I was wasting money other needed -\n but I realize there are many many more in my position and that wealth and freedom should be the standard - and poverty the exception\n But I can’t make people go to school, I can’t make them chose careers - nothing I can do for them\n If I were to give money away - I’d run out in a day ave then they still be broke and I too" }, { "id": "t1_okte8vn", "author": "/u/violetphalroses", "updated": "2026-05-09T13:02:17+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/okte8vn/", "content": "The issue I can’t wrap my brain around is that if everyone did what FIRE folks do, the economy stops, as it is driven by consumer spending." }, { "id": "t1_oktg9nl", "author": "/u/No-Revolution6775", "updated": "2026-05-09T13:14:15+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/oktg9nl/", "content": "Mate, I get the feeling. But no need to feel guilty… I mean usually those friends don’t get guilty when buying brand new expensive cars every few years right? Then why should we feel guilty of buying a bit of our own freedom instead?" }, { "id": "t1_oktqagj", "author": "/u/Individual_Coyote716", "updated": "2026-05-09T14:10:16+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/oktqagj/", "content": "Most of my friend group has advanced degrees but work in non-profit. It's the choice they made but also the world does need that work. I mostly just try not to talk about money.\n Is it somewhat luck that I have a good paying job? Yes but also I got undergrad and graduate degrees in business and that fundamentally generally leads to a higher salary than non profit fundraising. I'm a generous giver and try to balance things out that way by giving to causes that are important to me.\n I do fear things could get awkward when I'm retiring at 50 but I will cross that bridge when I come to it." }, { "id": "t1_okvuhzi", "author": "/u/Background_Bake_1578", "updated": "2026-05-09T20:45:23+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/okvuhzi/", "content": "I don’t. I’m 34M, not FIRE yet, about 400k NW, all liquid. I don’t feel bad at all. Yes they complain about these things, but at the same time they are going to events, dating, etc. things that I’m specifically excluded from. So I’m just using my time the only way that I can control, and if that gets me significantly ahead, so be it, and tbh it’s the only fair outcome." }, { "id": "t1_oknzfi4", "author": "/u/fenton7", "updated": "2026-05-08T16:23:57+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/oknzfi4/", "content": "Not at all - it's very binary. You are either working and saving, or you are retired. Nearly all of us go through a very long period in the working and savings mode, typically at least 20 years unless you have a sky high income, so there's really nothing to feel guilty about. If someone just worked, and didn't save, that's on them." }, { "id": "t1_oko0n75", "author": "/u/Sintered_Monkey", "updated": "2026-05-08T16:29:22+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/oko0n75/", "content": "I guess I might feel a little guilty about the 15% of net worth that was inherited. The other 85% I definitely don't feel guilty about one bit." }, { "id": "t1_oko2uzk", "author": "/u/Individual_Section_6", "updated": "2026-05-08T16:39:25+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/oko2uzk/", "content": "Not at all. The unfortunate truth is that most people that struggle financially make bad financial and life decisions. Ever wonder why most lotto winners and ex athletes go broke shortly after? I've never earned big salaries, but have saved and been frugal my entire life which has gotten me to this point. Most people are just horrible with money. If I gave all my money to by brother and his wife it would be blow on stupid shit in a year. They wouldn't even consider investing and living off the interest. Their mentality is money is meant to be spent. If it's sitting in an account not spend it's a waste." }, { "id": "t1_oko3byb", "author": "/u/VetalDuquette", "updated": "2026-05-08T16:41:32+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/oko3byb/", "content": "Not guilty, but very fortunate.\n Parents stressed education, graduated debt free, happened to moved to an area with a robust economy, learned early about saving and living below my means, and the stock market has exploded since I started investing in the early 1990s.\n That doesn’t even include being born a white man in the US. I’ve made good decisions but so much more was being in the right place at the right time." }, { "id": "t1_oko3yjn", "author": "/u/SFMattM", "updated": "2026-05-08T16:44:20+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/oko3yjn/", "content": "Not really. That sounds cold, but you're reaping the benefits of years of sound financial decisions. They are (generally) paying for theirs.\n If you must help your friend, do so with a gift, not a loan. You're more likely to hold on to the friendship that way" }, { "id": "t1_oko4dzz", "author": "/u/Regular-Bird-1657", "updated": "2026-05-08T16:46:15+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/oko4dzz/", "content": "some people may say they are stretched thin but have huge savings or retirement funds. I think it’s a state of mind of living below your means. So your friends may not be struggling like they say." }, { "id": "t1_oko5ut8", "author": "/u/justacpa", "updated": "2026-05-08T16:52:46+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/oko5ut8/", "content": "Not at all. I don't feel guilt unless I did something to contribute to their situation." }, { "id": "t1_oko6mur", "author": "/u/AdEducational8127", "updated": "2026-05-08T16:56:12+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/oko6mur/", "content": "I don’t feel guilty. I feel secure in my position. I help as much as I can. I don’t show off wealth. In fact, most don’t know about my wealth. When I married my wife, we rented a basement for 2.5 years to pay off debt and have a stable foundation. When we moved, we always had shared housing situations until 5 years ago. At 37, I am so happy we have made those sacrifices. So, no, I don’t feel guilty while also acknowledging that some people do try. My brother-in-law is one of those. A PhD, a professor at a college level earning $70k till his late 40s. While I, with only a BS, earn more than double that. Fortunately, my in-law switched from academia to the federal service (helped him) in his early 50s, and is catching up with a second job to save more for retirement (was always at the margin). I acknowledge my luck; I am proud, however, of not squandering my resources." }, { "id": "t1_oko7x0v", "author": "/u/EquipmentUnlikely895", "updated": "2026-05-08T17:01:49+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/oko7x0v/", "content": "unpopular opinion here maybe but I do include and set aside 'help out a friend or family' amount in my budget. If no one asks for help, all the better, it will continue to compound in my investment. But it gives me solace that I can help someone dear if needed." }, { "id": "t1_okoazr2", "author": "/u/EvictionSpecialist", "updated": "2026-05-08T17:15:24+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/okoazr2/", "content": "No I don't...bc 2 decades ago when these friends were buying $1k suits from Nordstroms and Allan Edmond shoes...I was building my war chest.\n Shit...I even have a hard time buying new pair of Nike Air Max right now. They're $150 bucks!" }, { "id": "t1_okocm88", "author": "/u/Travelistadiva", "updated": "2026-05-08T17:22:37+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/okocm88/", "content": "There are times I do feel guilty, but remember….everyone has the same 24 hours in a day." }, { "id": "t1_okod1kc", "author": "/u/BlueisGreen2Some", "updated": "2026-05-08T17:24:30+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/okod1kc/", "content": "Trust me those friends have something you don’t. Money isn’t everything by a long shot. They have things in their lives that are “better” than yours. Be kind and sympathetic but don’t feel guilty. Everyone’s life and luck has strengths and weaknesses and ups and downs. Be grateful for your strengths, work on your weaknesses and don’t compare." }, { "id": "t1_okoe222", "author": "/u/Ginflet", "updated": "2026-05-08T17:28:58+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/okoe222/", "content": "I lost empathy for people and their financial struggles years ago. Most people like the idea of wealth and thats where it normally ends." }, { "id": "t1_okohb1h", "author": "/u/FarTradition6496", "updated": "2026-05-08T17:43:25+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/okohb1h/", "content": "You are a kind, empathetic person who cares about others. Yikes on some of these comments." }, { "id": "t1_okoi4hu", "author": "/u/Greenfirelife27", "updated": "2026-05-08T17:47:06+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/okoi4hu/", "content": "Everyone lives with their choices. Enjoy" }, { "id": "t1_okoit1z", "author": "/u/Haunting_Industry_15", "updated": "2026-05-08T17:50:12+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/okoit1z/", "content": "I am feeling lucky, and I have empathy to the ones struggling. but no, I don’t feel guilty. While I was growing up, my parents struggled so hard to keep the light on and food on the table. I am frugal person causemy childhood. I feel guilty to spend money sometimes because my poor childhood." }, { "id": "t1_okolgk3", "author": "/u/Kooky_Dev_", "updated": "2026-05-08T18:01:59+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/okolgk3/", "content": "feel sorry for them yes, feel guilty for me prioritizing my future, no.\n You could always offer to help your friend rebuild his transmition or give him a few rides here and there if you are retiring." }, { "id": "t1_okp0zxk", "author": "/u/Carolina_Hurricane", "updated": "2026-05-08T19:14:27+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/okp0zxk/", "content": "I feel guilty now. Damn. One reason I’m looking to get out of this city when I quit work it’s such a rat race here I’m in the top 5% and feel like I’m behind the 8 ball. Perspective goes a long way. Thanks for this." }, { "id": "t1_okp4l5b", "author": "/u/PhatedFool", "updated": "2026-05-08T19:31:52+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/okp4l5b/", "content": "I think it depends. It’s always hard not to feel bad for those dealt a bad hand, but always tried to improve themselves.\n Like I won’t feel bad for the guy who decided to work fast food his entire career and never promote. The guy who talked about how much a scam college is, but makes 25 bucks an hour, the guy who made enough money, but spent it all.\n I will always feel guilty when I see those who lost half of everything in a divorce they tried to save then fell into depression, the one who had family members with severe medical emergencies and spent his retirement to save them, the guy who lost his home, credit, and went into severe debt following the 2008 financial crisis layoffs.\n Everyone’s situation is different. Many times I don’t know enough to make a judgement and refrain from doing so. I’ve met people who made objectively correct financial decisions and get reset. Sometimes it sucks. Can’t save everyone. That said you shouldn’t feel bad. If you think you can objectively afford it and wish out of the kindness of your heart then help them out. If you can’t or you realize they put themselves there and money will just delay them doing it again. Then it’s not even worth the time to be honest. Sounds dark, but it’s true.\n For the record “the guy” could also be a girl, just used it as filler." }, { "id": "t1_okp9b2u", "author": "/u/teamhog", "updated": "2026-05-08T19:54:28+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/okp9b2u/", "content": "Never. Not in the sense of what you’ve framed.\n We sacrificed on many fronts to get to where we are today.\n Those early sacrifices of time, away from family, and money are/were the cost of what we’re able to do today." }, { "id": "t1_okpf88o", "author": "/u/godzillabobber", "updated": "2026-05-08T20:22:37+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/okpf88o/", "content": "The guy with car trouble has watched me park my bike in the storeroom for 20 years. When UberEats brought him his lunch, he watched me grab my lunch from home. And yes, I did still feel bad a little." }, { "id": "t1_okph15t", "author": "/u/Pandas1104", "updated": "2026-05-08T20:31:13+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/okph15t/", "content": "I am literally in therapy due to this. Intellectually I know I sacrificed so much in my 20s to get an education and forgoing nice cars or living alone to save and pay off student loans that I deserve all the success I have been having the last 6-7 years or so but emotionally I am a wreck about it, especially since most of my friends are in a pretty low income zone and can hardly afford to buy food every week." }, { "id": "t1_okqaas5", "author": "/u/Jwoot1111", "updated": "2026-05-08T23:08:55+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/okqaas5/", "content": "I’m ready to retire financially but not mentally and yes at times I worry for my coworkers who seem to be struggling more than ever.\n I’d like to slight brag when I walk out. Ive worked hard for what I’ve built but I will hold back and just claim a sabbatical\n It’s going to be hard to be open about this with almost everyone really. Even people who make more than I do.." }, { "id": "t1_okqcrqw", "author": "/u/Hairless_Gash", "updated": "2026-05-08T23:23:20+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/okqcrqw/", "content": "Feel a bit guilty as people close notice I'm not struggling like they are.\n But know full well most of these , if not all, ultimately aren't making good financial decisions, and or not sacrificing as much as they probably should. I say probably because I'm fully aware of their freedom to do either, thus I can't feel guilty for your freedom of choice" }, { "id": "t1_okqgcos", "author": "/u/HaphazardFlitBipper", "updated": "2026-05-08T23:44:13+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/okqgcos/", "content": "The reason you're in a different position is because you made different decisions. While they were going to the bar, you were working overtime. While they were going on a cruise, you were vacationing with a picnic basket at your local public park. Etc... They enjoyed the things they chose to buy guilt free, you can enjoy your early retirement guilt free." }, { "id": "t1_okqidkf", "author": "/u/No_Cold_8332", "updated": "2026-05-08T23:56:03+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/okqidkf/", "content": "Several of my friends decided to get degrees in something that they loved. I chose to get a technical degree, quit my passion, and focused on what was reliable income about 12 years ago. I’ve avoided expensive lifestyle upgrades and spent many hundreds of hours reading about investing. People who didn’t do those things had more care free fun than I did. We both have our reward now" }, { "id": "t1_okqm771", "author": "/u/MachineNo3365", "updated": "2026-05-09T00:18:57+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/okqm771/", "content": "I am a scrooge. Scrooge was a hard working frugal person." }, { "id": "t1_okqpl20", "author": "/u/sharpiebrows", "updated": "2026-05-09T00:39:51+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/okqpl20/", "content": "I do feel bad for friends but some of them I have told over and over through decades that they need to save for retirement and they never really listened. I would even try to explain the snowballing effect of compounding gains or how you cant make up for delays. They do things like buy new cars right after paying off old ones, and they spend more than I do on clothes or hair." }, { "id": "t1_okqtot6", "author": "/u/Rom2814", "updated": "2026-05-09T01:05:12+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/okqtot6/", "content": "No, not really, but I’m 57. I worked hard in my career, hit a point where I I was drinking myself to death to deal with the stress. Lived way below my means. I spent 6 grueling years in graduate school, went into a field to make money rather than something that would fulfill me emotionally. My wife and I sacrificed.\n I do recognize that people with less ability, different personalities, different opportunities have different struggles and maybe would not have been able to succeed in the same way we have, but that doesn’t produce guilt.\n I’m retiring this month basically (long story) and am already feeling a sense of freedom and happiness I couldn’t really have imagined. I feel bad for the messy colleagues are dealing with but I can’t call it “guilt.”" }, { "id": "t1_okqyfyk", "author": "/u/No_Vacation_3148", "updated": "2026-05-09T01:34:52+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/okqyfyk/", "content": "There is always good and back luck. There is always a disparity in outcomes, even with those that traveled similar paths. This is due to parenting, personal values, dedication, ability, family ties, personality, logic, risk tolerance, motivation, a mentoring manager, a boss that pulls up not pushes down. Some directed by luck, some directed by fate, but most intentionally reached by clear decision making, goal setting, and execution. I had friends that wanted to do the least possible and still stay employed (and brag about it). I wanted all the production records, then the sales increase numbers, then the industry leadership. Some have died, some have flourished, many merely survived. I have done two of the three." }, { "id": "t1_okr1fyl", "author": "/u/Helpful-Comedian3616", "updated": "2026-05-09T01:53:23+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/okr1fyl/", "content": "It’s a pyschological principle to rationalize your place in the world\n So there is a mental burden having so much when others have less" }, { "id": "t1_okr1nnj", "author": "/u/Active_Drawer", "updated": "2026-05-09T01:54:42+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/okr1nnj/", "content": "Guilty, no.\n I don't have friends that have had major setbacks due to no fault of their own. If I did, then ya maybe.\n The ones worse off than me are the same ones that were at the bar 5x a week, eating out every meal not working OT in their 20s not working full time right out of highschool, etc.\n It doesn't mean I am blind to it and don't feel bad for them, but not because of where I am." }, { "id": "t1_okr5lll", "author": "/u/doooodledog", "updated": "2026-05-09T02:19:18+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/okr5lll/", "content": "Right or wrong, I feel guilty. I didn’t come from money but it would be foolish to think I didn’t at least have a little luck on my side.\n It’s just so hard to get ahead when you’re already behind. We all know that our money is making money but when you have to take a loan to meet basic needs, your money is literally losing you money. I guess I’m not saying anything we don’t all already know but it’s a tough pill to swallow.\n I console myself by saying that when I retire I will use the financial and business skills I’ve developed to help people through volunteer work." }, { "id": "t1_okraokl", "author": "/u/tyintegra", "updated": "2026-05-09T02:52:30+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/okraokl/", "content": "Yeah, it’s really tough.\n I see them making a lot of dumb/short sided decisions, but I also see that life just keeps kicking them in the face every step of the way. So I feel bad for them, but I also know that they made decisions that are causing their life to be harder in some ways." }, { "id": "t1_okrbdcz", "author": "/u/doooodledog", "updated": "2026-05-09T02:57:04+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/okrbdcz/", "content": "That’s totally fair. Besides there is really nothing you can do. Even if you wanted to help financially it might come off as patronizing or at the very least be awkward.\n I have friends who don’t make a lot of money and seem to be falling deeper into financial insecurity but they don’t even seem comfortable with me trying to cover dinner.\n I guess guilt over this sort of thing is useless." }, { "id": "t1_okrbzg4", "author": "/u/tyintegra", "updated": "2026-05-09T03:01:04+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/okrbzg4/", "content": "I guess that’s a good point." }, { "id": "t1_okr9bi6", "author": "/u/CycleOLife", "updated": "2026-05-09T02:43:26+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/okr9bi6/", "content": "I feel very fortunate, not feeling guilty about our situation. I do feel sad for some. Very thankful for parents that taught me about money." }, { "id": "t1_okraxv1", "author": "/u/ReelRural", "updated": "2026-05-09T02:54:13+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/okraxv1/", "content": "I have felt guilty recently but not anymore. I was living with a friend, renting a house from one of his friends. He’s a couple years older than me and can hardly take care of himself. I was renting because I like traveling. He was and is renting from a friend because he has to, because his credit sucks. He doesn’t know how to negotiate, how to budget, and makes stupid choices. I was feeling guilty because I moved on from that friendship, and keep saying “no” to him, because he keeps asking for favors and always last minute, needing rides places, always paid utilities late leaving me wondering if I’d ever get paid back, and even after moving out and buying my own house is still asking me to help him take care of his dogs.\n Saying no since moving out made me feel guilty, but I gave myself a wake up call this past week. I’m retired. I can do what I want, and I don’t need to feel guilty for making good financial decisions in life." }, { "id": "t1_okrb0r4", "author": "/u/Aruaz821", "updated": "2026-05-09T02:54:45+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/okrb0r4/", "content": "Yes. I don’t mention some things to most of my friends because they are in such different financial places. I definitely don’t talk about our savings, and I don’t mention large purchases. It just doesn’t seem necessary to share even though I doubt they would have negative feelings towards me. I just don’t want it to sting them if that makes any sense." }, { "id": "t1_okrbu95", "author": "/u/tyintegra", "updated": "2026-05-09T03:00:07+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/okrbu95/", "content": "I absolutely get this!\n I have recently bought things that I have purposefully not told them about cause I know they recently bought something similar and it was a big stretch for them.\n I know I shouldn’t have to hide it and I know that they would outwardly be happy for me, but I just don’t want it to get them down at all." }, { "id": "t1_okrdadj", "author": "/u/Aruaz821", "updated": "2026-05-09T03:09:54+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/okrdadj/", "content": "Exactly!!" }, { "id": "t1_okrwvh2", "author": "/u/Edan305", "updated": "2026-05-09T05:38:09+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/okrwvh2/", "content": "I don't feel uneasy about the money I've saved, which is adjusted for inflation. I feel uneasy about the portion that exceeds the inflation adjustment and is taxed at a lower rate than earned income. However, I can't change the system, so I need to be able to provide for myself in case the system can no longer do so—for example, due to health issues or if I'm laid off." }, { "id": "t1_oks2k7v", "author": "/u/Roareward", "updated": "2026-05-09T06:27:25+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/oks2k7v/", "content": "No, why would you feel guilty. Never compare against others, good or bad. I can feel for their struggle but that is different than feeling guilty. If the person is saving and living within their means and still struggling that is one thing, but if they just consistently have done the wrong financial thing over and over while knowing better, then it is the choice they made." }, { "id": "t1_okst78c", "author": "/u/CosmelleFevers", "updated": "2026-05-09T10:35:00+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/okst78c/", "content": "Survivor's guilt, different choices, be grateful, not guilty" }, { "id": "t1_okt3d0l", "author": "/u/Numerous-Anemone", "updated": "2026-05-09T11:52:56+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/okt3d0l/", "content": "No. The amount of money most of us are striving for to FIRE is nothing compared with what some people have, and they aren’t trickling anything down." }, { "id": "t1_okttuxe", "author": "/u/wellok456", "updated": "2026-05-09T14:29:05+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/okttuxe/", "content": "I offer advice if asked, pick up the bill at restaurants, and am open to helping directly to a point. I hit coast fire and am coasting/saving right now. For some friends/family they appreciate the advice and have made improvements in how they are saving/investing. For others their situation is entirely of their own making with wildly different choices than I would have done. They had different priorities which let to different outcomes and I don't feel any guilt there because it isn't a clear comparison." }, { "id": "t1_okubb5n", "author": "/u/Shackmann", "updated": "2026-05-09T15:58:12+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/okubb5n/", "content": "It’s tough. Everyone has their own “relationship” with money. Some use it as a tool, while others abuse it or are abused by it. Money evokes strong emotional responses and sometimes offering a different way to view money can challenge someone’s beliefs and core identities. It is good to want to help, and help where you can, but some people may not even be receptive to gentle nudges for fear of the identity consequences." }, { "id": "t1_okullvc", "author": "/u/Enough-Radish-4973", "updated": "2026-05-09T16:50:52+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/okullvc/", "content": "I actually feel this.. But, moments after.. I think that everything is about life choices. Most of the people in sorta harder situations are also the people always eating out and vacationing numerous times a year. Some people focus on today vs. tomorrow." }, { "id": "t1_okunv0s", "author": "/u/ash_yooung", "updated": "2026-05-09T17:02:07+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/okunv0s/", "content": "I am not responsible for anyone's financial independence. I am that friend that lives well below my means, frugal and disciplined, while others spend for various reasons, either they try to fill a void in their hearts, or they try to impress others. I respect those people that live within their means.\n But ultimately, guilty you feel for something you've done and it's wrong. Is it wrong for me to seek better in life? No. So since we aren't judging others' decisions, and we aren't responsible for their emotions, or their circumstances, why feel guilty?" }, { "id": "t1_okv6w0v", "author": "/u/ValidateMe3", "updated": "2026-05-09T18:37:40+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/okv6w0v/", "content": "Using loans is a tool, you shouldn’t feel guilty. Perspective is everything. Friends view me as homeless and in debt of about ~200k. They’ll occasionally offer me scraps like used phones and used tires that still have good tread on them, and I accept them of course. I don’t like things to go to waste. But the reality is I own a home, I just rent it out to others and I use the debt to generate 20k a month. I don’t mind my lifestyle at all. If the loan on the transmission makes sense I’d probably do it too." }, { "id": "t1_okv8f9s", "author": "/u/Disastrous-Lab-4602", "updated": "2026-05-09T18:45:45+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/okv8f9s/", "content": "I have friends who complain about not being able to travel like me. Yet those friends have high 5 figure extra cars that they only drive 4ish months a year. I spend far less than them traveling. They complain about rising costs but buy new cars every year don't even lease lose thousands. I don't feel bad." }, { "id": "t1_okvbl8l", "author": "/u/MagJack", "updated": "2026-05-09T19:02:22+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/okvbl8l/", "content": "I feel empathy, not guilty. I save and do not overspend, I have worked hard at a job I don't love because it pays well. Not everyone who is broke has made extremely poor financial decisions, but they are the only ones in control of how much they make and how much they spend. I don't blow money on dumb stuff like a lot of my friends who complain about being broke.\n It is sad though to see people that you care about struggling, for sure though." }, { "id": "t1_okykg5e", "author": "/u/ExciteSeek4Ever", "updated": "2026-05-10T07:53:40+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/okykg5e/", "content": "No…don’t feel guilty at all in fact. My wife and I worked our asses off for decades, decided not to have children, lived well below our means, and saved and invested. We went from low income status to upper class on our own and don’t feel guilty we have now retired before all of our friends and family. We are humble about it, and help them financially periodically, but we absolutely do not feel guilty that our diligence and sacrifices paid off." }, { "id": "t1_olqph78", "author": "/u/Dull-Presentation549", "updated": "2026-05-14T11:26:51+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/olqph78/", "content": "We are all connected believing or not. If you want help him. This will make you feel good.If you help others you help yourself too." }, { "id": "t1_oknzw3v", "author": "/u/JHG722", "updated": "2026-05-08T16:26:00+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/oknzw3v/", "content": "Why should you feel guilty for making good financial choices?" }, { "id": "t1_oko1f0f", "author": "/u/Puzzled-Peanut-7147", "updated": "2026-05-08T16:32:53+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/oko1f0f/", "content": "No empathy for this. We are a result of our choices. Decisions were made.\n Starting out poor with nothing to now at 3.2m net worth at 48, if I can do it, anyone can." }, { "id": "t1_oko2gfg", "author": "/u/NoWhereLikeIrvine", "updated": "2026-05-08T16:37:35+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/oko2gfg/", "content": "I only feel little guilty on my daily lunch walk when most people my wife and I encounter on the trails are +60 retired folks while we are in our 40." }, { "id": "t1_oko4a3j", "author": "/u/Tanachip", "updated": "2026-05-08T16:45:46+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/oko4a3j/", "content": "No." }, { "id": "t1_oko4tv2", "author": "/u/arunnair87", "updated": "2026-05-08T16:48:13+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/oko4tv2/", "content": "Nah. I truly don't know what anyone has other than my sister and a few others. If I could help without hurting myself I would. Like if I win the lotto, I'll retire my sister and my parents lol." }, { "id": "t1_oko5j58", "author": "/u/Pilatesbuns", "updated": "2026-05-08T16:51:20+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/oko5j58/", "content": "I don’t feel guilty but there is an imbalance that I try to hide. I don’t need to work in my industry, I just love my job. Others struggle. I have started to do kind things for the people I work with, not in a flashy or showy way but just kind gestures that I can afford to do" }, { "id": "t1_oko5ljk", "author": "/u/Lehcen", "updated": "2026-05-08T16:51:38+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/oko5ljk/", "content": "Help your friend if you can" }, { "id": "t1_oko66nm", "author": "/u/Life_Commercial_6580", "updated": "2026-05-08T16:54:13+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/oko66nm/", "content": "I do have some survivor guilt. I made good choices but I was also (very) lucky several times." }, { "id": "t1_oko7hjz", "author": "/u/kaswing", "updated": "2026-05-08T16:59:56+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/oko7hjz/", "content": "I think guilt is appropriate if you've done something bad or if you are contributing to what makes it harder for people with less to get by.\n I make a point to listen to folks who have it harder than me. In addition to making it clearer how I can help (both on an individual level and with my vote) it helps me be grateful for what I have, and in particular the opportunities I enjoyed that my friends didn't get." }, { "id": "t1_oko7u57", "author": "/u/FamiliarRaspberry805", "updated": "2026-05-08T17:01:28+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/oko7u57/", "content": "Yes. But there's also nothing I can do about everyone else's financial situation." }, { "id": "t1_oko85dj", "author": "/u/Bergmeister_A", "updated": "2026-05-08T17:02:51+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/oko85dj/", "content": "If you have less than 1 billion, you're probably not guilty, I hope." }, { "id": "t1_oko90b0", "author": "/u/supercleverhandle476", "updated": "2026-05-08T17:06:36+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/oko90b0/", "content": "No.\n My money goes in two buckets.\n My household- toward my family’s future, and present fun experiences. We skimp everywhere else that doesn’t meet either of those criteria.\n Outside my household - any donations made outside of my household that I don’t expect a return on need to meet two criteria- be a cause that I care about, and be a good steward of that money.\n Most of my friends that I know are having a tough time are definitely “causes that I care about”. I also know enough about their lifestyle that they are not good stewards of their (or my) money." }, { "id": "t1_oko9fa8", "author": "/u/Theeeeeetrurthurts", "updated": "2026-05-08T17:08:25+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/oko9fa8/", "content": "Nope. I acknowledge I got lucky in my career and in my life but I took advantage of that luck and invested in it so my luck wouldn’t go to waste." }, { "id": "t1_oko9p5b", "author": "/u/adaniel65", "updated": "2026-05-08T17:09:39+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/oko9p5b/", "content": "What kind of friend? Like a really good close friend or just a group type friend/acquaintance? If it's a close friend then maybe offer to give him an interest free loan? Or better yet help them buy a better used vehicle. Unless they helped you in the past I don't see an obligation or need to assist. Obviously, it's up to you to do something or not." }, { "id": "t1_oko9v19", "author": "/u/International-Wear57", "updated": "2026-05-08T17:10:23+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/oko9v19/", "content": "I do feel terrible for people suffering in 3rd world countries yes. Dying in wars for no reason, dying cause they can’t afford healthcare etc." }, { "id": "t1_okobarw", "author": "/u/armpit18", "updated": "2026-05-08T17:16:45+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/okobarw/", "content": "I don't feel guilty at all. Empathetic, yes. Our society has no financial safety net at all, and that's a problem. But not guilty." }, { "id": "t1_okodjel", "author": "/u/tfelsemanresuoN", "updated": "2026-05-08T17:26:42+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/okodjel/", "content": "I'm nowhere close to FIRE, but if you watch how others spend money you'll stop feeling guilty. Alcohol, concerts, travel, cars, restaurants. They leave all of that out of their guilt trips. You did what they weren't willing to do." }, { "id": "t1_okodkjs", "author": "/u/Witty-Drama-3187", "updated": "2026-05-08T17:26:50+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/okodkjs/", "content": "The K shaped economy bums me out for sure. I don’t feel personally guilty about being a diligent investor over the years, but the direction that the United States economy is going is difficult to watch. I (we) are in the fortunate position to have invested assets. The rich, and people with assets, are benefiting immensely right now. People who have low to no assets or investments are hurting. The divide keeps growing.\n There’s a reason the stock market keeps going up. Corporations continue to squeeze the bottom half for every penny. Layoffs, AI, price inflation, etc. When you own a piece of those corporations through index funds or whatever, you benefit. When you don’t own anything, you suffer." }, { "id": "t1_okodvue", "author": "/u/ShareEvening5856", "updated": "2026-05-08T17:28:13+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/okodvue/", "content": "Hey, you don't have to feel guilty, you do not have to disclose that you're doing better to help either. Choose maybe three situations? Let's say you dish out a thousand bucks between three of your most dire situations. If they come back asking for more than 6 months there is your answer. If they make a good roi on what you lend them and their life is better, there's your answer. I'm not going to tell you that people are ungrateful for what you give them because they can prove you wrong. But I'm also not going to tell you that helping other selflessly is great because sometimes you can be paid badly." }, { "id": "t1_okoebeq", "author": "/u/ShareEvening5856", "updated": "2026-05-08T17:30:07+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/okoebeq/", "content": "I basically gifted a car out of Goodwill back a few years ago. It Cost me. but I sleep better at night because you know." }, { "id": "t1_okoeyov", "author": "/u/howardbagel", "updated": "2026-05-08T17:33:00+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/okoeyov/", "content": "fuck. no." }, { "id": "t1_okofbs4", "author": "/u/brad7811", "updated": "2026-05-08T17:34:37+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/okofbs4/", "content": "Most of my friends are close to me with a few far above my wealth level. Very few have any financial difficulties. There is one, though… do I feel guilty? No. Do I feel empathetic towards their plight? Yes." }, { "id": "t1_okofn7n", "author": "/u/weas71", "updated": "2026-05-08T17:36:02+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/okofn7n/", "content": "We all have choices and we live with those. I'm not FIRE'ed yet but working towards it and I know how much saving money is sacrificing different short term opportunities. Life isn't fair and I feel for folks struggling but I don't feel guilt associated with my actions/situation vs theirs." }, { "id": "t1_okog5q9", "author": "/u/Betterway50", "updated": "2026-05-08T17:38:21+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/okog5q9/", "content": "Yes, so much so I never even mentioned to family, until just recently...and that's after close to 10 years of "I'm in between things" to traveling frequently throughout the year 😁 and partner just retired ." }, { "id": "t1_okogjgm", "author": "/u/Sundin01", "updated": "2026-05-08T17:40:02+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/okogjgm/", "content": "Sometimes I do feel a little guilty. But as have most commented, these people’s spending behavior is almost always out of alignment. And they definitely got to enjoy their 20s and some of their 30s. I . DID. NOT. WHAT. SO. EVER. Brutal pressure and hours. When my friend buys a coke and candy bar at a random gas station, I realize how different we are. No way I spending $6 for BS sugar snacks. (Gas station people)" }, { "id": "t1_okogtan", "author": "/u/Chemical-Carrot-9975", "updated": "2026-05-08T17:41:14+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/okogtan/", "content": "I don't feel bad for people who make poor choices, not one bit. But yeah, if people who are struggling through no (or little) fault of their own, I have empathy for that." }, { "id": "t1_okogun3", "author": "/u/AdAgile9604", "updated": "2026-05-08T17:41:25+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/okogun3/", "content": "Everyone has to make choices. I see you made good ones! Empathy and Discipline is what i would go for" }, { "id": "t1_okoh1zb", "author": "/u/Soda-Popinski-", "updated": "2026-05-08T17:42:19+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/okoh1zb/", "content": "No. Not at all. And not because some people “deserve to be rich” or deserve to be poor. Most of the time its blind luck. Especially when you get inti big generational wealth.\n I know here come the “I busted my ass for 40yrs to get where i am today”. Great. Good for you. Someone who works part time at a tattoo parlor inherits 30 million. Its a crap shoot.\n Keep your finances private." }, { "id": "t1_okoh8hm", "author": "/u/Green_Paths", "updated": "2026-05-08T17:43:07+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/okoh8hm/", "content": "I make less than half of what most of my friends do. I just retired at age 50 on a very modest income after 30 years of frugality, smart investing and extreme discipline. They are still grinding away at stressful careers and making what I think are pretty terrible financial decisions. I’m feeling a little heat from the group when we chat and they can’t stop complaining about how crappy they have it while I sleep in and go for long walks and pursue my hobbies every day.\n I’ve been asked over and over again how I did it (no, it’s not an inheritance or lottery win) but they don’t want to hear a simple fact: you will never get to stop working if you don’t live below your means and invest (barring that inheritance or lottery win, which I honestly think is many people’s deluded “plan”)\n I am very grateful and feel immensely privileged to be in my position- but at least in my friend group, I didn’t make choices that they weren’t also capable of making. They just decided to spend recklessly and now they are stuck while I am free. Is it fair? I don’t know. But do we reap what we sow? I think so." }, { "id": "t1_okok09z", "author": "/u/mrg1957", "updated": "2026-05-08T17:55:31+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/okok09z/", "content": "Like another poster, I feel empathy but not guilty.\n I have a 75 yo older sister who has nothing to retire on. They always drove a brand new vehicle every 3 years, cause we're doing ok. They never set anything back for retirement." }, { "id": "t1_okoksi2", "author": "/u/atxDan75", "updated": "2026-05-08T17:58:58+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/okoksi2/", "content": "No. I worked hard to get where I am. A little bit of luck but mostly work. Def makes me sad though for them." }, { "id": "t1_okom0yl", "author": "/u/pdx_mom", "updated": "2026-05-08T18:04:34+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/okom0yl/", "content": "That's what they say luck is ...opportunity and preparation.\n I see plenty of people who make more than we do and well arent in the same position. Choices have been made." }, { "id": "t1_okokvnx", "author": "/u/eclipsadesoare", "updated": "2026-05-08T17:59:22+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/okokvnx/", "content": "It’s not just good financial choices. It is a very privileged position to be able to save that much money per month. Most people don’t even have 200 left after paying for necessities. Not paying for a car loan for 200 a month and instead using it on investments does not compare to what people in this forum are saving.\n A lot of the reasons why you have more money than others are luck. Even the way you think is luck. Your ability to learn. Your ability to handle adversity. Most important, most people do not have the amount of disposable income mentioned here." }, { "id": "t1_okokyjp", "author": "/u/fatheadlifter", "updated": "2026-05-08T17:59:43+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/okokyjp/", "content": "How did they end up in their situation? Are they making bad decisions or is something else going on?" }, { "id": "t1_okol7vo", "author": "/u/Ok_Orange4494", "updated": "2026-05-08T18:00:52+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/okol7vo/", "content": "I know what you mean, but it really doesn’t help their situation for you to feel badly about it so why feel badly about it. Send them good vibrations or prayers that their situation improves. Just flip the guilt to gratitude and you’re all good." }, { "id": "t1_okom09t", "author": "/u/gusklassen", "updated": "2026-05-08T18:04:29+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/okom09t/", "content": "You could empathize with them. That would be normal as a friend. But why would you even feel guilt? It’s not like your actions contributed to their situation." }, { "id": "t1_okom1qr", "author": "/u/Displaced_in_Space", "updated": "2026-05-08T18:04:40+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/okom1qr/", "content": "I absolutely feel guilty and don’t know what Im going to do in a couple years when i retire and theyre still struggling.\n My best friend is literally one of those “ill never be able to retire unless i won the lottery. “" }, { "id": "t1_okon77j", "author": "/u/StrikingCover4114", "updated": "2026-05-08T18:09:55+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/okon77j/", "content": "No. I don’t feel guilty. I’ve struggled on a pretty average income for 20+ years (average in my VHCOL area) and saved waaaaayyy more than most. That meant real sacrifice. I have empathy for my friends who have gone through awful divorces etc that have left them financially screwed, but I also watched them spend like crazy for years. 🤷‍♀️" }, { "id": "t1_okopchd", "author": "/u/ProfileBest2034", "updated": "2026-05-08T18:19:43+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/okopchd/", "content": "I mean you could be generous and help. There is that." }, { "id": "t1_okopclj", "author": "/u/ChuckOfTheIrish", "updated": "2026-05-08T18:19:43+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/okopclj/", "content": "You shouldn't feel guilt for that, but empathy or at least sympathy is important. It isn't always bad choices that leave people financially tight, in most cases it is something out of their control. Reasons like this are why I'm okay with taxes rising if they help people in need. Yes, I and many in fire have done well due to financial acumen, smart/lucky investing, and a frugal lifestyle (especially early on), but myself and most others have a good bit of privilege to thank for a good portion." }, { "id": "t1_okopz91", "author": "/u/Swimming_Astronomer6", "updated": "2026-05-08T18:22:39+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/okopz91/", "content": "I wouldn’t say guilty - I unfortunately feel grateful. I know that comes off as selfish - but I also think it’s human nature. I have a close friend from 60 years ago that I’ve only seen once or twice in The past 40 years - friends are raising money to get him some new teeth - I gladly chipped in - so I know it’s not a lack of empathy -" }, { "id": "t1_okoq2bw", "author": "/u/Abject-Round-8173", "updated": "2026-05-08T18:23:03+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/okoq2bw/", "content": "Hell no. You made sacrifices and put in that work. Don’t feel guilty." }, { "id": "t1_okoqbvr", "author": "/u/Laser_Coug", "updated": "2026-05-08T18:24:18+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/okoqbvr/", "content": "Feel more guilty for siblings who struggle. Unfortunately, it's often due to their choices of careers." }, { "id": "t1_okoqecg", "author": "/u/ZuuL_1985", "updated": "2026-05-08T18:24:37+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/okoqecg/", "content": "I used some of my extra income to help friends and family. I know I don't havr to but I want to. I just always tell them that its their early inheritance since I plan to die with zero." }, { "id": "t1_okoqi48", "author": "/u/SpecialistKoala9765", "updated": "2026-05-08T18:25:06+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/okoqi48/", "content": "Yes if I know the friend well and is truly struggling even with best efforts. I know friends who did everything right but still struggle.\n But in most cases I would say no. I made more personal sacrifice to save up for rainy days when most of my other friends are going out and enjoying their shopping and vacationing. I even got dissed for being frugal. So for those I’d just keep my distance and boundary.\n I always believe that if I care about my friends and the relationship is authentic, we’d be talking about money and FIRE. My closest friends know I do that and we have mutual respect that way." }, { "id": "t1_okoql3g", "author": "/u/byrontheconqueror", "updated": "2026-05-08T18:25:30+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/okoql3g/", "content": "Have you already shared your knowledge with them? If you have and they shrugged it off maybe it's time to gloat like a good friend would" }, { "id": "t1_okosgk2", "author": "/u/Cagel", "updated": "2026-05-08T18:34:13+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/okosgk2/", "content": "Don’t have to completely drop these ones, but find new friends as well, they might turn on you if you retire and they realize the position you are in." }, { "id": "t1_okoszcn", "author": "/u/Mountain_Fox_6730", "updated": "2026-05-08T18:36:39+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/okoszcn/", "content": "This really is a tough one. If you know them fully, then you know there are 2 sides to every story. There is often the one person who just cant ever seem to get a break, but the part of that we rarely see is that when they do get a break or build up enough, they buy something rediculous instead of paying down a debt.\n I have millionaire friends, trust fund friends, dirt poor friends and friends that can never get ahead. One of my never get ahead friends used his school financial assistance to buy 6 collector guitars and a ton of cassette tapes before they went out of style. He was kicked out of school with student loan dept. I was also kicked out of school, but my parents paid the firs 10k down in cash. I worked and paid them back.\n To this day, he has 3 kids like I do and is married, but now has a gun hobby where he is a really talented sniper, but that hobby and the price of his guns and rifles, ammo that he makes at home etc also means that his wifes honda odyssey is so badly rusted but they cannot afford a new car. He bought is most recent suv from our doctor friend who traded it to him for one of his favorite guitars. I planned on buying the guitar back with another friend and gifting it, but then his broke ass took a guys trip to one of the most expensive little ski towns on the west coast.\n You cant help those who cannot help themselves. You can feel empathy, but most often, they make the bed they sleep in.\n My millionaire friend, just sold his business and is travelling the world with his girlfriend. Building the business cost him his first Wife, but now he is set for life. He made the sacrifices when he was young and stayed diligent, built the business and then was forced to sell which he kind of needed a push to do anyways.\n The trust fund friends? What a waste of life unfortunately. They are married, do not love each other, no kids thankfully, spend the money they receive every year, always wanting more, always bickering and my Wife and I were their rock until we realized that we were suckered into their lives which was a huge lie.. Having millions doesnt equate to the happiness one would think. I believe their dad gave his 4 kids 100 million each plus they have ranches, lakehouses and more. The whole family is a miserable lot, fighting over small things like light fixtures. The Wife was always jealous of my Wife who grew up with nothing and is simply just happy. The wife didnt like that in their circle of friends, all the women would gravitate towards my Wife because of her funny personality. We eventually were excluded because of things like this. Then the cocaine took over their world.\n I would often ask my wife whey she was so deep into that friendship and then one day, it all ended. They tried to sabotage our friendships with other people and it worked very well. We were able to see who was truly a friend and who wasnt.\n Once a year I would travel to Canada with 11 of my good buddies from high school where we would spend a weekend together drinking and white water rafting. The guys ranged from ultra loaded to unemployed.\n We love each other the same regardless of who had what or not, because when we are together, none of that stuff matters, just being together and having a good time does." }, { "id": "t1_okotm4s", "author": "/u/sorhp", "updated": "2026-05-08T18:39:37+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/okotm4s/", "content": "It really feels when they can’t go on vacation with you, or take a few days off on a whim to go do something fun, even if you pay for it" }, { "id": "t1_okou7uf", "author": "/u/Guardman1996", "updated": "2026-05-08T18:42:29+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/okou7uf/", "content": "Individualism is the harbinger of bad things to come. It always is as social animals." }, { "id": "t1_okouj5r", "author": "/u/WWGHIAFTC", "updated": "2026-05-08T18:43:57+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/okouj5r/", "content": "I already feel sad, but not guilty just for having more than everyone else in our friend group/family.\n Maybe try to use your time and skills to help? For example, if the car repair was simple, like brakes, you could spend an afternoon helping them pick parts and do the install. saving 5x the cost of shop rate & parts markup.\n I know a guy that always had money issues, and could nenver get ahead - but he made terrible terrible decisions constantly. Like buying project cars, and not paying self employed income tax until it all piled up...." }, { "id": "t1_okov9sm", "author": "/u/TJayClark", "updated": "2026-05-08T18:47:26+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/okov9sm/", "content": "Yes and no\n Yes - to the friends who came from nothing and couldn’t get ahead (think single teenage mother of 2 people)\n No - to the friends who dropped out of school, lived with family until age 25, financed new cars in college, and traveled the world early. Aka they enjoyed the money their future self will make one day" }, { "id": "t1_okovjvo", "author": "/u/ddashner", "updated": "2026-05-08T18:48:46+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/okovjvo/", "content": "It has happened with my sister in law, and happens all the time at work. But peoples' situations are the products of their actions. If you are constantly doing dumb stuff with your money you will have problems. I don't really feel bad about it. But I don't let on that my situation is totally different either." }, { "id": "t1_okovkww", "author": "/u/jerwang24", "updated": "2026-05-08T18:48:54+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/okovkww/", "content": "Survival of the fittest unfortunately." }, { "id": "t1_okowa10", "author": "/u/bikingnerd", "updated": "2026-05-08T18:52:10+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/okowa10/", "content": "No - I have been through tight times myself, and have a lot of empathy for folks who are struggling. That does not mean I need to feel guilty about the work I have put in and the choices I have made.\n I'd probably feel guilty if I were super rich and had millions/billions of $$$ to spare, but not about achieving a point where I can retire early with enough to live on." }, { "id": "t1_okowksx", "author": "/u/immrsclean", "updated": "2026-05-08T18:53:33+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/okowksx/", "content": "I mean, I’m not wealthy (yet) but come from rural poverty, so to them I am. It’s different, but I do feel guilty. I don’t feel guilty when I get to take a vacation and they don’t. I do feel guilty when they can’t afford basic necessities, or to fix their vehicle.\n I have worked hard, but I’ve also had some luck and been given breaks by people I was lucky to be in the same room with. Idk, a lot of complicated feelings about it. But yes, I do feel guilty, even if I have worked hard and “deserve” my good fortune.\n Edit: for the record, I know I’m in a fire sub but even so, many of these replies are very out of touch :/ I really wish it was as simple as “I made good choices, they made bad choices”. Life would be much easier to digest." }, { "id": "t1_okowqkl", "author": "/u/davidn281", "updated": "2026-05-08T18:54:18+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/okowqkl/", "content": "I don’t feel guilty because I know I tried to help people with their finances. If they never wanted to help themselves, that’s on them." }, { "id": "t1_okowqz8", "author": "/u/Alpha-ZL1", "updated": "2026-05-08T18:54:21+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/okowqz8/", "content": "It’s good to be understanding of others’ situations, but if you live in America; even getting dealt a crappy hand stills allow you to change your life circumstances. Some people decided to enjoy their 20s and 30s to the max, instead of thinking about creating a lifestyle that will be sustainable in retirement via saving and investing." }, { "id": "t1_okoyx9y", "author": "/u/NecessaryEmployer488", "updated": "2026-05-08T19:04:33+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/okoyx9y/", "content": "There are a lot of broke people who take fancy vacations, go to concerts, football games, buy or lease a car every five years that are broke. I don't feel sorry for them.\n I've been on the side of not getting ahead as well. Lately it has been because of massive saving to retire, and that retirement savings is off limits for touching so I have to live on what is left." }, { "id": "t1_okoz908", "author": "/u/MrWhiskers55", "updated": "2026-05-08T19:06:05+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/okoz908/", "content": "Depends. Family? No, I share the wealth with them in a bunch of ways. And teach the kids good habits. Friends? Just have them tag along with me to places. Randoms? Don’t care." }, { "id": "t1_okozhm9", "author": "/u/josephinesbehavior2", "updated": "2026-05-08T19:07:14+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/okozhm9/", "content": "I don’t feel guilty because I help my friends when they are in a tight spot" }, { "id": "t1_okp03jx", "author": "/u/Top-Guess8463", "updated": "2026-05-08T19:10:07+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/okp03jx/", "content": "You always have to ask yourself this very real question. Would the friends care if it was you having these problems? As an adult, I have seen many people been in financial hardship and get help from friends only to find themselves struggling in the near future. Would they help you if you needed or give advice? Just a question to ask before you feel guilty about the discipline you have and the situation you have yourself in. I in no way can give financial advice to anyone but I do now where I stand if I have hard times and tell my friends or colleagues. I would get no help. That’s just my 2 cents. Either way, you are doing good for yourself/ family." }, { "id": "t1_okp0tal", "author": "/u/KingPabloo", "updated": "2026-05-08T19:13:34+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/okp0tal/", "content": "Not at all - their choices = their money situation.\n This is reinforced by seeing how those who are always complaining about money spend it." }, { "id": "t1_okp0tay", "author": "/u/OutdoorsNSmores", "updated": "2026-05-08T19:13:34+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/okp0tay/", "content": "In our last city there was a local charity (lose way to put it, Facebook group) that decided to make and deliver Thanksgiving dinners. It expanded to helping with Christmas. It went really well, but it was disappointing to see some of the families head of on vacation (Disneyland and a cruise) while asking for help.\n I don't go on big vacations, I work and save and will retire early. Yes, feel free to contribute to my retirement fund, I need financial assistance.\n Yeah, I still help people out, but some people really annoy me." }, { "id": "t1_okp4t2g", "author": "/u/Educational_Land7852", "updated": "2026-05-08T19:32:57+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/okp4t2g/", "content": "No. I am older than you. Most people I have known throughout my life were always spending more money than me on things. I told a friend of mine she went shopping every time she got paid, and so did I. She bought clothes. I bought future time. The look on her face was priceless." }, { "id": "t1_okp50dt", "author": "/u/billymumfreydownfall", "updated": "2026-05-08T19:33:56+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/okp50dt/", "content": "Yes, but only for my best friend. They live below their means but she was a SAHM for many years and didn't graduate high school so always worked low paying jobs. She has since earned a EA certificate but since the hours are not great (all school holidays are unpaid) and they are talking about having to work another 15-20 years..." }, { "id": "t1_okp51oe", "author": "/u/intjester-5", "updated": "2026-05-08T19:34:07+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/okp51oe/", "content": "All of life is compounding. From wherever you are starting, make good longer-term decisions, get better opportunities as a result. Rinse. Repeat.\n You shouldn’t feel guilty for passing the marshmallow test." }, { "id": "t1_okp5qi5", "author": "/u/masterpososo", "updated": "2026-05-08T19:37:26+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/okp5qi5/", "content": "Not guilt, but I do feel empathy. I learned my lessons both ways: the hard way for decades when I was in a marriage where making a no-spend decision was grounds for divorce; and the easy way when I was on my own and able to make rational decisions informed by good authors (first Sylvia Porter, then Clark Howard, then Dave Ramsey, with a bit of Warren Buffett thrown in). I have been poor for far longer than I have had wealth, so I don't look down on the poor and struggling and neither do I feel guilty. I guess if my wealth had fallen from the sky I would ask "Why me and not them?" but I know where it came from, and I generally know where their poverty came from. Can't feel guilty about doing it right." }, { "id": "t1_okp8xog", "author": "/u/artvandaley19", "updated": "2026-05-08T19:52:42+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/okp8xog/", "content": "When it comes up that you’ve quit your job, tell them you’ve become a consultant." }, { "id": "t1_okpah2n", "author": "/u/imzadi111", "updated": "2026-05-08T19:59:58+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/okpah2n/", "content": "Nope. We all make choices and ours has always been to make sacrifices and live below our means with nice splurges when appropriate." }, { "id": "t1_okpms2q", "author": "/u/KungFuBucket", "updated": "2026-05-08T20:59:18+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/okpms2q/", "content": "No. I made my choices and sacrifices to be where I am today.\n I have one friend who is a cautionary tale. Was always buying new cars every couple years, collecting Disney figurines, refinancing his house to pay off debt on the regular. Whenever an in investment opportunity came along he never had the cash flow to take advantage of it.\n Today I’m happily retired, he’s still paycheck to paycheck waiting for an inheritance to make ends meet." }, { "id": "t1_okpo8ek", "author": "/u/No_Run2337", "updated": "2026-05-08T21:06:35+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/okpo8ek/", "content": "It is so insane that you said this because I’ve literally had to let a friend go because they were in such a wreck with their finances. She’s older than me but we’re just on two different levels when it comes to finance… so for my conscience I had to let that friendship go because it was actually draining me.. I don’t feel guilty because I live on half of my income I’m very frugal and I have three kids.. the doctor I work for obviously makes way more than me and also struggling with finances… and I’ve already voiced how they could do it and they still decide to struggle… I said it once, and I’m not saying it again because people are usually stuck in their ways and it goes in one ear and out the other" }, { "id": "t1_okpp9s1", "author": "/u/Chipped_Ruby_11214", "updated": "2026-05-08T21:11:53+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/okpp9s1/", "content": "How did you feel when they spent that extra money on things you didn’t have to get over the years? They choose to enjoy the fruits of their labor as they earned them. You have deferred your enjoyment. So, in that context, what is there to feel bad about?" }, { "id": "t1_okpqcsh", "author": "/u/brapstustu123", "updated": "2026-05-08T21:17:26+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/okpqcsh/", "content": "Don’t feel guilty for planning for your future when others had the same chance to do so and chose not to." }, { "id": "t1_okpqmxb", "author": "/u/Conscious_Life_8032", "updated": "2026-05-08T21:18:53+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/okpqmxb/", "content": "I’m working on not feeling guilty for the financial situation I am in. It took years of being diligent in my decisions. This doesn’t happen by sheer luck\n I empathize with those who are not in the same place as me, but also feel like not everyone prioritizing finances and are too impulsive with $ and take on debt." }, { "id": "t1_okprxah", "author": "/u/Bertozoide", "updated": "2026-05-08T21:25:32+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/okprxah/", "content": "I’d never feel guilty because other people don’t know how to earn and/or manage their money" }, { "id": "t1_okpwdpe", "author": "/u/BigJRecords", "updated": "2026-05-08T21:48:54+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/okpwdpe/", "content": "Survivors guilt" }, { "id": "t1_okpwhiy", "author": "/u/Bald123Eagle456", "updated": "2026-05-08T21:49:28+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/okpwhiy/", "content": "Don't feel guilty; feel gratitude. Trouble comes for us all eventually." }, { "id": "t1_okpxfw2", "author": "/u/vladm13", "updated": "2026-05-08T21:54:36+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/okpxfw2/", "content": "All my friends are financially literate for the most part and really I don’t have many friends just 2-3 people of whom 2 are close relatives, my friend and I both invest into 401ks and actively talk to each other about what’s better for us financially, and my brother who never spends I simply forced him to open a 401k and he should be set. Reconsider how much those friends really matter as harsh as that sounds or if they’re even close to you in general" }, { "id": "t1_okpxujs", "author": "/u/Feeler1", "updated": "2026-05-08T21:56:48+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/okpxujs/", "content": "I look at it as at least you won’t be the person who brings other friends down with stories about how YOU can’t pay for a transmission. I mean, the alternative is for everyone to be in the same boat by being equally broke and that’s no solution.\n My thought process has always been if I take care of myself and not need anyone to support me and everyone else does the same thing then no problems.\n The only thing left would be those that have serious, legit problems that prevent them from caring for themselves and we, as a society, should care for them. The problem, obviously, is that not enough people feel this way." }, { "id": "t1_okpz5ef", "author": "/u/RealisticDistrict515", "updated": "2026-05-08T22:04:00+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/okpz5ef/", "content": "Sure do, sadly alot. I hear my siblings talk like that alot but I also see how they spend. When they bring up their purchases and spending habits, I lose the guilt real fast lol. Alot of the time I try to give a little advice here and there but if they dont take it in any form, I just have to remind myself they are victims of their own choices." }, { "id": "t1_okq0rns", "author": "/u/HunterBiden_yeah", "updated": "2026-05-08T22:13:06+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/okq0rns/", "content": "I take care of Number 1" }, { "id": "t1_okq212v", "author": "/u/OkMarsupial", "updated": "2026-05-08T22:20:20+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/okq212v/", "content": "I'm still working full time, so maybe my outlook will change, but right now I'm doing pretty well financially and planning for retirement. Most of my friends are also doing okay and planning for retirement, but I do have a few close friends who have almost zero retirement savings and I don't feel guilty at all. I feel sorry for them and I worry about them, but I don't feel guilty. I do sometimes fantasize about getting so rich that I can just gift them each a paid off house, but that's really not in the cards for me. I hope they figure it out." }, { "id": "t1_okq2qsh", "author": "/u/MaartenHH", "updated": "2026-05-08T22:24:33+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/okq2qsh/", "content": "I have sacrificed a lot in order to make a lot from my investments. So no, I don’t feel any guilt." }, { "id": "t1_okq5rpu", "author": "/u/makomark26", "updated": "2026-05-08T22:42:12+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/okq5rpu/", "content": "Are they fucking off their cash ? Have they done their best to budget , make as much money by position or overtime and side hustling . Then I might help them out once . Would they do it for you ? If they are an irresponsible lame who doesn't want to learn to fish . Hell no" }, { "id": "t1_okqeccd", "author": "/u/tribriguy", "updated": "2026-05-08T23:32:26+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/okqeccd/", "content": "Do not take that guilt on yourself. You aren’t that powerful, and it isn’t yours. You cannot be responsible for everyone else. You can sympathize with them. But also know that their situation is a product of their life decisions, not yours. We can love and care about people’s well being. But we should not take on their problems. That’s a road to enabling behavior. It’s hardest with those we’re closest to, especially our kids. I’m always happy to share my experience and what I did to get where i have gotten. I have been alternatively in your friend’s position and now in your position. What changed? Me (and my wife). No one should have ever felt guilty for us when we were $200k+ in debt and negative net worth, with questionable credit score. Be a resource. Don’t be a martyr." }, { "id": "t1_okqev5m", "author": "/u/tyintegra", "updated": "2026-05-08T23:35:29+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/okqev5m/", "content": "Great advice! Thank you!" }, { "id": "t1_okqo204", "author": "/u/AfroAmTnT", "updated": "2026-05-09T00:30:16+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/okqo204/", "content": "No. You have to live your life and don't let others drag you down, even if you love them." }, { "id": "t1_okqtgt8", "author": "/u/BuilderOfDragons", "updated": "2026-05-09T01:03:49+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/okqtgt8/", "content": "You made your bed, now you get to sleep in it 🤷‍♂️\n Be grateful for what you have. Help others where and when you can, but definitely don't feel guilty" }, { "id": "t1_okrtfb4", "author": "/u/Public_Strawberry867", "updated": "2026-05-09T05:09:00+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/okrtfb4/", "content": "No matter what, do not tell them that you're near retirement." }, { "id": "t1_oks180e", "author": "/u/925Splicer", "updated": "2026-05-09T06:15:30+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/oks180e/", "content": "AI" }, { "id": "t1_oks2bfe", "author": "/u/DistributionRight814", "updated": "2026-05-09T06:25:15+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/oks2bfe/", "content": "no. not your problem." }, { "id": "t1_oksthwi", "author": "/u/Brostradamus-2", "updated": "2026-05-09T10:37:34+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/oksthwi/", "content": "Nope. Fuck them. I don't feel an ounce for anyone who made bad decisions leading to their own situation. I won the game. They could have also and didn't." }, { "id": "t1_oktb4au", "author": "/u/RabbetFox", "updated": "2026-05-09T12:43:23+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/oktb4au/", "content": "There’s a great line in the movie The Departed—“This is America. If you don’t make money, you’re a douchebag”. People choose their careers, their lifestyle, their spending, their choices, etc…\n I’ve chosen to do certain things to increase my earnings. I’ve chosen to do certain things to increase my savings. I’ve chosen to forego purchases and experiences to reduce my expenses.\n There’s nothing stopping others from doing the same." }, { "id": "t1_okuv6rw", "author": "/u/Slow-Condition7942", "updated": "2026-05-09T17:38:20+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/okuv6rw/", "content": "?????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????" }, { "id": "t1_okvhypp", "author": "/u/sweater__weather", "updated": "2026-05-09T19:36:35+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/okvhypp/", "content": "Are you being otherwise generous? I think if you recognize that you have such plenty in your life it's good to make sure you're donating to well run charities. There's almost certainly a food shelf or housing provider in your area that would know what to do with a few hundred bucks a month." }, { "id": "t1_okwwmbd", "author": "/u/Necessary-Truth-2038", "updated": "2026-05-10T00:31:21+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/okwwmbd/", "content": "Guilty? Nope" }, { "id": "t1_okx9ne1", "author": "/u/No-Judgment-607", "updated": "2026-05-10T01:53:59+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/okx9ne1/", "content": "Financial literacy is a learned skill that you chose to master and practice. No need to feel guilty that it paid off for you." }, { "id": "t1_okxemmt", "author": "/u/CalmMacaroon9642", "updated": "2026-05-10T02:25:45+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/okxemmt/", "content": "I feel guilty about my luck to be in that situation. Recent gas prices have really shown a light. I don't feel bad for people driving trucks and SUVs on 7 yr loans that can't afford the payment now gas has gone up but I do feel bad for the people who have 15 yo car but driving 40 miles everyday to work because it's best they could afford." }, { "id": "t1_okxlmvo", "author": "/u/hecticandpsychotic", "updated": "2026-05-10T03:11:59+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/okxlmvo/", "content": "Nope. We can empathize with others and try to understand where they're coming from and acknowledge we manage our respective responsibilities/goals/circumstances/choices differently" }, { "id": "t1_okxouc9", "author": "/u/Specific_Mess_1031", "updated": "2026-05-10T03:34:34+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/okxouc9/", "content": "I have empathy for people who are struggling, regardless of whether I know them personally or not.\n However, I don’t feel guilty for having accumulated what I have. I always talk to my close friends about money and try to get them to see they should invest. I recommend the books that got me to where I am. I recommend books that I’ve read which explain complex topics very simply. I don’t say anything about anyone’s life decisions though. I have no right or reason to judge anyone.\n I do tell anyone who asks though, that all that I have has been due to making a lot of very good choices (spending little due to having roommates, choosing an inexpensive car and keeping it, having side jobs until I was 37, not having kids, and making investing a big priority) as well as luck. I do feel luck had to do with it because I could’ve invested properly and still had the market tank for the past 8 years." }, { "id": "t1_okxt5nb", "author": "/u/Cornish_spex", "updated": "2026-05-10T04:04:33+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/okxt5nb/", "content": "Yea , most of my friends are wealthier than I am but I find myself feeling out of touch when meeting new people. It’s hard to shake the privileged perspective I have. I feel bad when I say something out of touch before stopping myself and realizing not everyone can just write a check and fix a problem.\n I give generously and anonymously to strangers, but don’t really feel guilty about having more money than my struggling friends and family. The struggling ones I know closely YOLO’ed more than I did or consistently make poor choices. I happily give them tips to better the situation, but it’s a mindset difference that often can’t be changed." }, { "id": "t1_ol2330w", "author": "/u/hovland55606", "updated": "2026-05-10T20:16:08+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/ol2330w/", "content": "I sure don’t feel guilty. And I wouldn’t tell anybody about my situation either. This is especially true when the people in the bad situation have made fun of me for riding the city bus or clipping coupons." }, { "id": "t1_oliu62v", "author": "/u/Strazdas1", "updated": "2026-05-13T07:11:05+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/oliu62v/", "content": "Why would i feel guilty for other people bad spending habits?" }, { "id": "t1_okoaeg5", "author": "/u/skinnyorangecat", "updated": "2026-05-08T17:12:46+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/okoaeg5/", "content": "Like others, I have empathy. I also acknowledge that part of my situation was luck or privilege. Right place right time, made the better choice in the long run, etc. but! I did do the work. I really do feel for those that are trying, doing the work, but life has dealt to them some sort of rough card." }, { "id": "t1_okoakic", "author": "/u/bananabastard", "updated": "2026-05-08T17:13:31+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/okoakic/", "content": "No. In the same way I don't feel guilty about being in shape when I have friends with health struggles. I wish they were healthy, and I empathize with them, but I don't feel guilty that I kept myself in shape." }, { "id": "t1_okoauk9", "author": "/u/ObligatoryContrast", "updated": "2026-05-08T17:14:46+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/okoauk9/", "content": "Yes and no. Most of the people I know who aren't doing well financially are in that position simply because their field or position doesn't pay well. Most people struggling are simply underpaid. It's easy for me to say "well I save half my income!" When I make twice what I need to live, when others are spending the same I do on living expenses and simply don't have anything extra to save.\n I don't lie to myself that I'm well off because I "work harder", because I don't. I just got lucky that my chosen career happens to be way overpaid. I didn't really think about that when I chose it in school, and I sure as hell didn't work or study harder than the majority to get where I am. I'm just lucky, and now have an ounce of financial restraint. I wish more people in these forums would accept that in these forums.\n Sure, there are a few people who don't have anything saved just because they're dumb and reckless and spend frivolously, but I find that's actually more common with high income people who have the opportunity to do that and still be kind of alright for the moment." }, { "id": "t1_okobtfw", "author": "/u/brianmcg321", "updated": "2026-05-08T17:19:03+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/okobtfw/", "content": "No" }, { "id": "t1_okocb6v", "author": "/u/Acceptable_Usual1646", "updated": "2026-05-08T17:21:15+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/okocb6v/", "content": "No definitely not. While they were flying arojnd the globe in louboutins and chanel bags eating lobster, drinking champagne, I went to Aldi for groceries. And I mean this literally because that is what my friends did." }, { "id": "t1_okokm8o", "author": "/u/buymybirdfeeder", "updated": "2026-05-08T17:58:12+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/okokm8o/", "content": "Yes I feel guilty. The economic system is unjust. I support changing it in ways that would be more egalitarian even if it would be against my narrow self interest. I donate some money when I feel especially bad, mostly when I follow the news. And then I keep saving. What else can one do?" }, { "id": "t1_okp0cis", "author": "/u/oETERNALo", "updated": "2026-05-08T19:11:18+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/okp0cis/", "content": "Guilty? Absolutely not. Empathetic, sure. The amount of people I see walk into work EVERY morning with Starbucks, then grab something from a fast food joint at lunch, and talk about where they are going to dinner is astonishing. I drink water all day, from some expensive water filtration dispenser, and eat something I bought from home. I have done the math, there is a reason people who have nearly identical pay have drastically different retirement ages.\n And I say this as someone who goes on trips, has nice cars and goes out on Fridays. Prioritize where you spend it and they can be in the same position." }, { "id": "t1_okqrz8a", "author": "/u/BananaHiker", "updated": "2026-05-09T00:54:36+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/okqrz8a/", "content": "You could also just help out your friend" }, { "id": "t1_okqzt1a", "author": "/u/EnvironmentalMix421", "updated": "2026-05-09T01:43:17+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/okqzt1a/", "content": "Make mo and pay for ur friend" }, { "id": "t1_oknziez", "author": "/u/suebrjcjn", "updated": "2026-05-08T16:24:18+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/oknziez/", "content": "You can’t be rich without someone else being poor. It’s all relative. Absolutely nothing to be guilty about" }, { "id": "t1_oko2a8h", "author": "/u/Cinderhazed15", "updated": "2026-05-08T16:36:49+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/oko2a8h/", "content": "Rich and poor are relative. People’s expectations, values, etc all tie into it… there are people with hardly a penny to their name living in modest accommodations who are happy and have good support systems, and there are people pulling down high salaries making lots of money but still in debt and constantly making decisions that continue the lifecycle.." }, { "id": "t1_okr8dsl", "author": "/u/try-4823", "updated": "2026-05-09T02:37:15+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/okr8dsl/", "content": "How about people that get in medical debt? Or didn’t have the chance to go to college?\n Many of you see very white and very judgmental" }, { "id": "t1_okrawm6", "author": "/u/tyintegra", "updated": "2026-05-09T02:53:59+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/okrawm6/", "content": "You do make a good point.\n I think of that was the situation with my friends I would be acting/doing things very differently." }, { "id": "t1_okx21sj", "author": "/u/Least-Ad-5539", "updated": "2026-05-10T01:05:48+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/okx21sj/", "content": "If you are planning on retiring at 41 it won’t be long before you are in the same situation as your friends." }, { "id": "t1_oky0yw7", "author": "/u/JayNetworks", "updated": "2026-05-10T05:02:23+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/oky0yw7/", "content": "What basis do you have to say that? Unless you know their net worth and their yearly needs you have no idea. It is very possible to retire at 41 if you have saved well and kept your yearly expenses low." }, { "id": "t1_oky1gnu", "author": "/u/Least-Ad-5539", "updated": "2026-05-10T05:06:14+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/oky1gnu/", "content": "I hope he comes back when he is 85 and tells us how it worked out." }, { "id": "t1_oky58zz", "author": "/u/JayNetworks", "updated": "2026-05-10T05:37:25+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t7ckxx/anyone_else_feel_a_little_guilty/oky58zz/", "content": "But that is the point about FIRE, you can do the math, stay conservative, and then adjust as you go on if returns are lower or inflation is higher. It isn’t an all or nothing of ops you retired and then you run out of money.\n Lots of people do this and for the vast majority who have the right 25+ times true yearly expenses in liquid net worth there is little risk.\n I’d assume from your comments that you aren’t in that position financially." } ] }, { "source": "r/Fire top month", "id": "t3_1t6cxek", "title": "The calculator says I'll have $8.4M in 20 years or $9.5M if I contribute $2k/month... so why keep saving?", "author": "/u/savvybackpacker", "updated": "2026-05-07T14:54:44+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t6cxek/the_calculator_says_ill_have_84m_in_20_years_or/", "content": "Is being able to enjoy an extra $2k/month now worth having an extra $1M in 20 years when I'm 62?\n EDIT: I just hit $2M at 42 years old, if that helps inform the discussion.\n submitted by /u/savvybackpacker\n [link] [comments]", "contentHtml": "

Is being able to enjoy an extra $2k/month now worth having an extra $1M in 20 years when I'm 62?

EDIT: I just hit $2M at 42 years old, if that helps inform the discussion.

submitted by /u/savvybackpacker
[link] [comments]", "comments": [ { "id": "fetch_error", "author": "system", "updated": "", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t6cxek/the_calculator_says_ill_have_84m_in_20_years_or/.rss?sort=top&limit=500", "content": "HTTP 429 for https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1t6cxek/the_calculator_says_ill_have_84m_in_20_years_or/.rss?sort=top&limit=500: " } ] }, { "source": "r/Fire top month", "id": "t3_1ts4h1p", "title": "Stating the obvious - The Market is insane", "author": "/u/Reasonable_Box2568", "updated": "2026-05-30T16:28:49+00:00", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1ts4h1p/stating_the_obvious_the_market_is_insane/", "content": "This can’t keep going up can it? In mid April we passed 2mil in liquid assets and just 45 days later we are at 2.18m. I made 16,000 my first year out of college. Our HH net worth didn’t hit 180k until we were several years into our careers. Now 180k is being made (on paper) in just 45 days and this is beyond my wildest dreams. I know this could all be wiped away next week, but knowing how little our contributions matter at this point is both frightening and exciting. We were originally planning on a mid 50s retirement in 18-20 years but now could possibly retire in under 10 years given that we are over half way to our goal.\n Cheers all! Let’s try to enjoy this moment even if it doesn’t feel real.\n **edit - we also keep about 250k in cash equivalents for emergencies and peace of mind..\n submitted by /u/Reasonable_Box2568\n [link] [comments]", "contentHtml": "

This can’t keep going up can it? In mid April we passed 2mil in liquid assets and just 45 days later we are at 2.18m. I made 16,000 my first year out of college. Our HH net worth didn’t hit 180k until we were several years into our careers. Now 180k is being made (on paper) in just 45 days and this is beyond my wildest dreams. I know this could all be wiped away next week, but knowing how little our contributions matter at this point is both frightening and exciting. We were originally planning on a mid 50s retirement in 18-20 years but now could possibly retire in under 10 years given that we are over half way to our goal.

Cheers all! Let’s try to enjoy this moment even if it doesn’t feel real.

**edit - we also keep about 250k in cash equivalents for emergencies and peace of mind..

submitted by /u/Reasonable_Box2568
[link] [comments]", "comments": [ { "id": "fetch_error", "author": "system", "updated": "", "link": "https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1ts4h1p/stating_the_obvious_the_market_is_insane/.rss?sort=top&limit=500", "content": "HTTP 429 for https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/comments/1ts4h1p/stating_the_obvious_the_market_is_insane/.rss?sort=top&limit=500: " } ] } ] }