9 Financial Milestones to Hit by Age 40

Turning 40 can be an important checkpoint for evaluating your financial progress and strengthening your long-term stability. Many people use this stage of life to reach key financial milestones, such as maintaining a solid emergency fund or setting aside money for their children’s education. Focusing on these objectives can help position you to handle future expenses and build lasting financial security.

Working with a financial advisor can also help you create a clear strategy for achieving these goals.

1. Build a Reliable Emergency Fund

Having an emergency fund by age 40 generally means setting aside at least three to six months of living expenses. This financial cushion can protect against unexpected expenses, such as job loss, medical emergencies or home repairs. An online high-interest savings account can be a useful tool for achieving this goal.

2. Pay Off High-Interest Debt

Whether it’s credit card balances, personal loans or high-interest car loans, carrying high-interest debt into your 40s can hinder your ability to achieve financial freedom. Paying down debt allows you to redirect those funds toward savings and investments. Consider consolidating debt or using strategies like Dave Ramsey’s snowball method to tackle it efficiently.

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3. Maximize Retirement Savings

At age 40 you’re likely about halfway to retirement, so you should aim to have saved at least three times your annual income by the time you’re 40 and up to six times your salary by the time you reach age 50. Contributing to tax-advantaged accounts like a 401(k) or IRA can help accelerate retirement savings. Take full advantage of employer contributions and consider increasing your savings rate if you feel behind on your goals.

4. Establish Multiple Income Streams

One of the most exciting financial milestones by age 40 is discovering how to diversify your income sources. Passive income, such as real estate investments, dividend-paying stocks or a side business can provide greater financial stability. It’s also a way to explore personal passions or skills that can generate income over time.

5. Invest in Long-Term Financial Growth

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By age 40, it’s a good idea to be investing at least 15% of your income in long-term assets. Whether you’re investing in the stock market, real estate or other long-term assets, a diversified investment portfolio could help set up your money to work for you, potentially growing over time and helping you meet your financial objectives.

6. Reach a Meaningful Net Worth Milestone

By age 40, many financial professionals recommend having a net worth equal to at least two to four times your annual income. Your net worth represents the total value of your assets (including retirement accounts, investments, savings and home equity) minus your liabilities, such as mortgages, student loans and credit card balances. Tracking your net worth can provide a clearer picture of your overall financial health and help you measure progress toward long-term goals like retirement.

7. Purchase Adequate Insurance Coverage

Life insurance, disability insurance and long-term care insurance can protect you and your family in the event of illness, injury, or death. Evaluating your coverage needs at this stage can help you prepare for the unexpected, while also keeping your long-term financial goals intact. Consider having enough life insurance to cover 10 times your annual income. Additionally, review your disability insurance with the goal of replacing at least 60% of your income if you’re unable to work.

8. Create or Update Your Estate Plan

A comprehensive estate plan typically includes a will, power of attorney and healthcare directives. Additionally, consider if there is a type of trust that may be appropriate for your family’s financial needs. Regularly reviewing and updating these documents remains important as your financial situation evolves.

9. Prioritize Saving for Children’s Education

If you have children, saving for their education is likely a priority. Tax-advantaged accounts like 529 plans are a popular option for saving for education, allowing your investments to grow tax-free. Establishing a savings plan for education not only helps your children but can also alleviate potential future financial burdens.

Bottom Line

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Reaching your financial milestones by age 40 will require a strategic approach. Prioritize savings, manage debt and explore diverse investment strategies, among other practical steps, to maintain financial flexibility and build wealth. Moreover, securing adequate insurance and having a clear estate plan can protect your family’s well-being and provide greater peace of mind.

Tips for Financial Planning

A financial advisor can work with you to set and reach different financial milestones throughout your lifetime. Finding a financial advisor doesn’t have to be hard. SmartAsset’s free tool matches you with vetted financial advisors who serve your area, and you can have a free introductory call with your advisor matches to decide which one you feel is right for you. If you’re ready to find an advisor who can help you achieve your financial goals, get started now.
One of the cornerstones of a good financial plan is having a good budget. SmartAsset’s budget calculator can help you organize your finances based on the average budget of a person in your neighborhood.