Trying for FI
Sharing stories and strategies from the daily grind toward our financial independence. We are a Queer blended family of five living in the Bay Area and are "late starters" dedicated to Trying for FI!
Trying for FI
Choosing 403(b) Funds with ChatGPT: Real-Life FIRE Moves
After two years at Fetch’s job, we finally decided to invest in the 403(b). In this episode, we walk you through why we waited, what changed, and how we’re making the decision now — with a little help from ChatGPT.
You’ll hear:
• How our FIRE journey shifted our perspective on tax-advantaged accounts
• Why we passed on the 403(b) at first (and what we misunderstood back then)
• What helped us rethink the “Middle Class Trap” and early access fears
• How we used ChatGPT to analyze Fidelity fund options and match them to our existing portfolio
• The real trade-offs between SEP and 403(b), especially around flexibility and paycheck deductions
We also reflect on how far we’ve come — from confusion about tax filing status to confidently talking portfolio allocations and contribution maxes.
Whether you’re navigating multiple retirement accounts, thinking about Coast FI, or just figuring out where to stash your next investment dollar, this episode gives you a grounded, real-life look at how we’re making it all work.
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