Money Milestone 7
Invest 15% of your income
You’ve built a strong foundation. Now it’s time to start thinking long-term and invest in your retirement and your future.
Continue Your Money Milestone Journey Here
Investing 15% of your income is how you turn today's progress into tomorrow's retirement and Financial Freedom. This isn't about chasing market trends; it's about consistency, patience, and letting your money grow over time.
Build Toward the Retirement You Want
A consistent 15% creates momentum that compounds into long‑term stability.
Building wealth isn't really about having more money. It's much deeper than that.
Guidance and accountability help you stay focused, confident, and consistent.
Why Saving 15% Works
Nearly 58% of Americans feel behind on retirement — but saving 15%, no matter where you’re starting, could help you catch up or even pull ahead. Consistency matters more than perfection, and every step you take puts your future on a stronger footing.
How to Save 15% of Your Income
Your 15% includes your 401(k) or 403(b), but not your employer's match. Here are some alternative savings options you can use to invest in your future.
Once you’ve captured your employer match, continue contributing toward the annual maximum to increase your long-term growth and build a stronger foundation for retirement.
Contribute after-tax dollars and enjoy tax-free growth. Qualified withdrawals in retirement are tax-free, and contributions can be accessed at any time. Eligibility and annual contribution limits apply.
An investment account helps you grow your wealth with flexibility, giving you access to your money anytime while working toward your long-term goals.
Important Note: This is not a recommended savings priority order; there is no one-size-fits-all solution. For a strategy tailored to your goals, timeline, and income, meet with a FAIRWINDS Wealth Management financial advisor.
How Building Wealth Supports Your Future
Building wealth isn't about having more. It's about creating long-term stability, options, and peace of mind, so you can prepare for tomorrow with confidence.
Wealth helps protect your purchasing power as the cost of living increases, so your money keeps working for you over time.
Building a financial foundation supports your family today and creates opportunities for future generations.
When you intentionally grow wealth, you gain confidence and peace of mind knowing you have something to fall back on.
Invest for the Retirement You Want
Investing is one of the most effective ways to build savings for your retirement. Working with an advisor can bring clarity and structure to your plan. See how your retirement savings could grow over time.
Keep Making Progress
No matter where you are, real progress starts with knowing what Financial Freedom means to you and building a budget that supports it.
The Money Milestones are more than a financial to-do list. They’re your path to lasting financial peace and true Financial Freedom. Picture what Financial Freedom looks like for you and let it fuel every step forward.
No matter where you are on your journey, every goal starts with a plan. A budget gives your money direction and keeps your progress moving. Build it once, revisit it often, and stay focused on what matters most.
Real Members, Real Results
If I could go back and start saving earlier, I would. But it’s wild how fast your money grows when you hit 15%. My wife and I even bumped it up to 16% this year just to see it grow faster.
Find Your Money Milestone
Not sure which Money Milestone you're on? Find out how to make real progress by answering a few quick questions. Once you do, you'll have access to tools, tips, and articles designed to help you move forward every day. Find your Money Milestone to get started.
Additional Reads
While investing or retirement planning are areas that a financial advisor can help with, there are many other services an advisor can provide.
Retirement planning can be exciting, but it can also be overwhelming. Here are three tips to help you set off in the right direction.
Go beyond retirement rules of thumb. Learn how timing, retirement expenses, and other hidden factors impact your personal true cost of retirement.