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This Woman Went Viral On TikTok For Revealing How She'll Retire With 6 Million Dollars — And She's Only 26

Tori Dunlap went viral on TikTok for her investing advice, and she's committed to helping others.

Farrah Penn
by Farrah Penn

BuzzFeed Staff Writer

Last week, a woman named Tori went viral on TikTok after explaining how she'll retire with $6 million, which includes investing in the stock market + time to let your investment grow. And, because viewers were naturally curious, the video has been viewed over 4 million times.

Tori Dunlap is a money expert and founder of Her First $100K. She has a passion for financial education as a form of protest and wants to make conversations about money inclusive. Most of her TikToks (like this one!) include financial tips to help viewers understand how to manage their money.

tiktok.com, tiktok.com

BuzzFeed reached out to Tori to see how she felt about TikTok's reaction to her video. "When I first started on TikTok, it was tempting for me to think that this young audience wouldn't be interested in personal finance advice," Tori said. "But I know now that they are going to be the most financially educated generation we've ever had — and I think my success on TikTok proves that they're looking for financial information from someone relatable and who they can trust."

Tori has a degree** **in theater and organizational communications, but later began Her First $100k as a side hustle (now full-time). Her background in finance began early, when her parents ensured her of a solid financial education and foundation, something that she acknowledges is a privilege and she is grateful for.

"For women, we're dealing with not only the wage gap, but the investing gap. Compared to men, we're waiting longer to invest or not investing at all," Tori explained. "The number one reason women don't get started is fear, and my account and work is all about giving them actionable advice and guidance so they feel less alone and scared. I joke that investing is no more complicated than climbing stairs — but the first step is five feet high."

When asked about the best way to get started, Tori told us, "Through a tax-advantaged retirement account, like a 401k or IRA. Open an account, put money in, and then choose your investments. I'm also in the midst of building an educational platform and community around investing for women, so stay tuned for that!"

Tori also understands that everyone's situation is different, but she gave some advice that might help many. "First, understand where your money is currently going and if that aligns with your values. Write down every purchase, how it made you feel, and then review at the end of the month. I call this money journaling. Next, build an emergency fund, which should be enough to cover 3-6 months of your expenses. I recommend keeping this in a high-yield savings account. Finally, start investing! It doesn't have to be much, even $20 a month is a good start. The key is starting ASAP so that compound interest can work for you."

And because Tori is all about making finances approachable, she offers an easy first step: "My free money quiz is a great place to start. We figure out your money personality and goals, and give you personalized resources to go out and crush them."

We love an educational TikTok! To learn more about Tori, follow her TikTok or visit her website Her First $100K.