08/19/2026
Health care is one of the biggest financial surprises in retirement. Not travel. Not hobbies. Health care.
Medicare helps starting at 65, but it doesn't cover everything. Premiums, deductibles, copays, prescriptions, dental, vision, and hearing aids can all add up.
If you're retiring at 65 or later, Medicare beneficiaries spend about $4,000 a year out of pocket, not counting premiums. That number climbs past $6,000 a year once you reach 85, as health care needs increase.
If you're retiring before 65, budget for a lot more. Without employer coverage, many early retirees turn to the ACA Marketplace, a spouse's plan, or a private policy. A reasonable planning range is:
- $8,000 to $10,000 a year for an individual
- $18,000 to $25,000 a year for a couple
That's before deductibles, copays, and prescriptions, which can add another $2,000 to $5,000 per person each year.
At any retirement age, don't overlook long-term care. Medicare generally covers only short-term skilled nursing after a hospital stay. It doesn't pay for ongoing help with things like bathing, dressing, or eating. Those costs can run from $20k - $100k per year.
A few ways to prepare now:
- Build savings in an HSA if you have a qualified high-deductible plan.
- Look into long-term care insurance before health issues develop, when premiums tend to be lower.
- Consider critical illness coverage, which pays a lump sum after a covered diagnosis and can be used however you need it.
Whether you're retiring at 55, 62, 65, or later, health care costs are one of the few expenses that almost always go up. If you'd like help planning for retirement health costs, we're happy to answer your questions.