How are You Paying for Healthcare Expenses in Retirement?
A recent study from Fidelity found that a newly retired couple at the age of 65 will need about $285,000 to cover healthcare expenses in retirement.
While many of our clients do an excellent job of planning for retirement, the idea of planning for healthcare expenses that high aren’t even on their radar. Most people think their healthcare expenses will be a lot less, but the above statistic is a reality for most.
Metroplex Wealth is passionate about helping you gain traction with a well-rounded estate planning approach that includes planning for healthcare expenses in retirement. Here are a few things to consider as you tackle the issue:
Medicare Has Its Limitations
If you’re assuming Medicare will pick up the bill for healthcare expenses in retirement, chances are, it won’t be a holistic approach. For example, Medicare is not equipped to cover the costs of prescription drugs that can be very expensive if it’s lacking the Medicare Part D policy. You’ll also have limitations on vision and dental benefits, depending on the plan. Medicare participants can go into retirement expecting the pay deductibles and out-of-pocket expenses for things not covered.
Options for Pre-Retirees
If you haven’t yet retired and are looking to the future, there are some ways to plan for healthcare expenses and protect your hard-earned assets. For many clients, we recommend taking full advantage of an HSA, or Health Savings Account, because of its tax-deductible contributions, tax-deferred growth, and tax-free withdrawals. Long term care insurance is another great option, but pricey. It will help cover living expenses for extended care without draining your nest egg. Younger couples may get better rates for buying into this program earlier or coupling it with a life insurance policy.
If you’re interested in exploring retirement healthcare planning options that are right for you, call us at Metroplex Wealth in Southlake, Texas today for a consultation.
