BiggerPockets Money Podcast

The Best Investing Order of Operations for FIRE (2025)

47 snips
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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ADVICE

Start with Small Emergency Fund

  • Build a $1,000 emergency fund first to create a buffer against financial disasters.
  • This small fund prevents minor emergencies from derailing your financial progress.
ADVICE

Attack High-Interest Debt Next

  • Pay off high-interest debt (8-10% or more) after building a small emergency fund.
  • This is a guaranteed return, safer and better than most investments.
ADVICE

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.
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