Financial Independence at Any Age

It's never too early — or too late — to aim for financial independence. Anyone who has money in the bank and little or no debt usually enjoys a lot more choices in life — and a lot fewer problems.

Your need for financial independence is going to change with every phase of your life. When you're young and unattached, independence can mean buying a round of drinks at happy hour or being able to live without three roommates. By the time you're middle-aged, that can change to being able to take time off work to care for an aging parent.