BiggerPockets Money Podcast The Best Investing Order of Operations for FIRE (2025)
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Jul 8, 2025 Discover the essential order of operations for investing to achieve financial independence and retire early. Learn why prioritizing a fully funded 401(k) can be more beneficial than a Roth IRA. Delve into maximizing employer matching contributions, which can feel like free money. Gain insights on managing high-interest debt and building an emergency fund to secure your financial future. Explore strategic investment options like Health Savings Accounts and 529 plans, all tailored to help you retire earlier while avoiding the middle-class trap!
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Take Full 401(k) Match
- Always contribute enough to your 401(k) to get the full employer match.
- Employer match is free money and presents the best return in the first year.
Use Employee Stock Purchase Plan
- If eligible, participate in your Employee Stock Purchase Plan to buy stock at a discount.
- Immediately selling these shares nets you guaranteed free money.
Build Full Emergency Fund
- Build a fully funded emergency fund of $10,000 or 3-6 months of expenses.
- This cushions against large unexpected costs and provides financial flexibility.