Retiring Before Age 65? Look out for the Biggest Expense! (Spoiler: Healthcare)

When people picture retirement expenses, travel often comes to mind — but for most retirees, healthcare is the single largest cost.

A 65-year-old couple retiring in 2019 could expect to spend around $285,000 on medical expenses throughout retirement, and some estimates push that figure closer to $390,000. That doesn’t include long-term care. For those considering early retirement, health insurance can be one of the biggest financial challenges once employer coverage ends.

Understanding Medicare, supplemental coverage, and out-of-pocket expenses is essential to building a realistic retirement plan.

  • 00:09Healthcare identified as biggest retirement expense
  • 00:27Fidelity study reveals $285,000-$390,000 healthcare costs
  • 00:52Early retirement healthcare insurance challenges
  • 01:21Medicare misconceptions among adults over 50
  • 01:44Dental care coverage gaps in Medicare
  • 02:05Call to action for retirement planning assistance