top of page


FIRE Proofing Your Retirement
Mandatory retirement ages can end your fire-service career before you feel ready, but they also set a clear deadline for Financial Independence Retire Early. This post maps your hard exit date, shows how 457 funds become a bridge paycheck, and explains tactics to cover health care until Medicare. We break down overtime funnels, side-income shelters, and pension options so you can turn a forced separation into a voluntary next chapter.

Jim Carlson
May 203 min read


Strong Back, Strong Balance Sheet
Your bunker gear protects you on the fireground, but what shields your finances when your body quits before your pension kicks in? This post shows how investing in fitness, sleep, and mental resilience today safeguards both your paycheck and the years you want to spend with the people you love.

Jim Carlson
May 193 min read


The One Question Every Firefighter Should Ask Before Taking Another Shift
Before picking up another shift, ask yourself if it's bringing you closer to the life you really want. This post lays out how firefighters can use extra income to build real options for their future. Not with a budget, but with a blueprint for a life that puts you back in control.

Jim Carlson
May 131 min read


What Happens If the Job Doesn’t Let You Come Home?
Firefighters often rely on department life insurance, but that may not be enough to truly protect their families. This post walks through the most common coverage gaps, the differences between term and permanent insurance, and how to plan without getting caught in a sales funnel. As a financial planner who understands the risks of the job, I help clients build smart coverage frameworks, without pressure, just clear guidance.

Jim Carlson
May 123 min read


Financial Mayday Can Be Avoided with a Plan This Month
Firefighters know that reacting late can cost you. The same goes for your finances. May is the ideal month to fine-tune your cash flow, reevaluate your tax picture, and align your career and retirement goals before summer ramps up. Whether you're managing OT income, preparing for DROP, or adjusting savings targets, a few intentional moves now can prevent financial emergencies later. Smart planning in May pays off year-round.

Jim Carlson
May 53 min read


What Firefighting and Fatherhood Have in Common (Even If I’m Only Doing One)
During a tough summer in the markets, I found myself bouncing my infant son on my lap while fielding calls from anxious clients. That moment grounded me. Firefighters face a different kind of stress, but the lesson is the same. Your plan should give you space to show up where it counts. At home. With your people. When it matters most.

Jim Carlson
Apr 302 min read


Roth or Pre-Tax? Making the 2025 457(b) Call When Overtime Kicks In
Overtime is great until taxes follow the siren. This guide shows Massachusetts firefighters how the new 2025 457(b) limit of $23,500, plus catch-ups, can help you steer overtime dollars into Roth or pre-tax savings. Walk through bracket checkups, cash flow tests, and a simple five step decision rubric. See real math, action steps for your next pay cycle, and tips for the special age 60-63 catch-up. Read it before the next call comes in.

Jim Carlson
Apr 284 min read


DROP for Firefighters: How to Time Your Decision to Maximize Retirement
Learn how to optimize your retirement as a firefighter by effectively timing your entry into the Deferred Retirement Option Plan (DROP).

Jim Carlson
Mar 184 min read


The Best (and Worst) Side Hustles for Firefighters: A No-Nonsense Guide to Making Extra Cash Without Burning Out
From contracting to investing—your guide to profitable firefighter side hustles without burning out. Earn more, stay mission-ready some day!

Jim Carlson
Mar 123 min read


Firefighter Pension Planning: Paving the Way to a Secure Tomorrow
Learn firefighter pension basics, retirement timing, and savings strategies for post-service financial security.

Jim Carlson
Feb 253 min read


Putting the Pieces Together for Firefighter Retirement
Firefighters need the right financial tools for retirement. Plan ahead with pensions, savings, healthcare, and smart strategies for a secure

Jim Carlson
Feb 113 min read


To LA County Firefighters: A Thank You from the Heart
Reflecting on the courage of LA County firefighters during wildfires and the role of financial planning in supporting their resilience.

Jim Carlson
Jan 133 min read


Landmark Legislation Repeals WEP and GPO: What It Means for Firefighters
Firefighters rejoice! The WEP & GPO repeal boosts Social Security benefits. Plan now for a stronger retirement future.

Jim Carlson
Dec 23, 20244 min read


Strategic Tax Planning for First Responder Retirements
Tax-smart retirement strategies for firefighters. Protect your pension and maximize benefits with strategic planning.

Jim Carlson
Dec 16, 20245 min read


Balancing the Heat: Firefighters with Multiple Careers
Firefighters are building second careers between shifts. Smart strategy or burnout waiting to happen?

Jim Carlson
Dec 5, 20243 min read


Life After the Last Alarm: You Can Only Watch The Price is Right Once a Day
Beyond watching The Price is Right: A firefighter's honest guide to finding purpose after hanging up the helmet. Life after the last alarm r

Jim Carlson
Dec 2, 20243 min read


The Halligan vs. The Brokerage Account: Tools for Firefighting and Financial Planning
Firefighters use a Halligan for emergencies; investors use a brokerage account for financial goals. Both tools unlock potential. Learn how!

Jim Carlson
Nov 21, 20244 min read


The Final Alarm: Maximizing Your 457(b) in Your Last Three Years of Service
Firefighters nearing retirement: Maximize your 457(b) with the special catch-up provision in your final years. Make your retirement count.

Jim Carlson
Nov 14, 20244 min read


Facing Early Retirement as a Firefighter? Here's How to Be Ready
Firefighters face early retirement compared to others. Plan ahead with FIRE to ensure financial freedom when it's time to hang up the helmet

Jim Carlson
Oct 8, 20244 min read


Setting Firefighters Up for Financial Success: The Financial Fire Drill Seminar
Fire chiefs: Boost your team's financial wellness with a "Financial Fire Drill" seminar. Secure futures beyond the firehouse.

Jim Carlson
Sep 30, 20243 min read
bottom of page