A Realistic Timeline to $1M–$1.5M

You're in a tough place, but you're still making incredibly strong progress toward financial independence. Let’s break this down and add a realistic timeline to $1M–$1.5M to give you some encouragement.

Your Current Situation

Net Worth: $211,000
- Brokerage: $63,792
- Roth IRA: $44,505
- Rollover IRA: $79,912
- HSA: $13,545
- Cash: $10,000
Savings Rate: $4,000–$4,500 per month ($48,000–$54,000 annually)
Investment Allocation: 70% VOO (S&P 500) + 30% AVUV (Small Cap Value)
Age: 45
Goal: $1M–$1.5M net worth for FIRE

Assumptions for Growth

Investment Returns: Assume a 7% annual return after inflation (a standard assumption).
Savings Rate: $48,000–$54,000 annually ($4,000–$4,500/month).
No Withdrawals: You continue saving and investing with no withdrawals.

Results

At your current savings and investment rate, you’ll hit $1M in about 9–10 years (age 54–55).
If your savings rate increases slightly or if the market performs better, you could reach your goal faster.
Hitting $1.5M would take approximately 14–15 years.

Words of Encouragement

You’re Ahead of the Curve: With a net worth of $211K and a high savings rate, you’re in the top tier of savers. Most people don’t have your level of discipline.
Small Changes Add Up: If you’re able to push your savings to $5,000/month or even a slight market boost happens, you’ll reach $1M faster.
Time Is On Your Side: Even starting at 45, compound growth works exponentially in your favor. The next 10 years of growth will reward the foundation you’ve already laid.
Options Exist: If the current CFO role is too taxing, look for roles with slightly lower stress. With your CPA skills and FIRE savings discipline, you can choose work that aligns with your mental well-being without derailing your progress.

You’re closer than you think. Take it one month at a time. Saving and investing consistently, combined with your skills, will get you there. You're building something incredible!