Is not knowing how you'll handle your healthcare stopping you from retiring when you want to? You may not want to wait for Medicare to kick in to retire, but you might be unsure how to cover health expenses before it does. There are other options—take some time to learn about them on this page and how to budget for your healthcare.
How to Cover Healthcare Costs Before Age 65
Learn how you could help cover the cost of health insurance if you retire before you’re eligible for Medicare.
If you plan on retiring or find yourself needing to retire before age 65, you have five options for health coverage:
COBRA
Allows you to maintain your current healthcare coverage (for a certain period of time) but you’ll need to pay the full expense. This can be a good option if you are close to age 65.
Can be your best and most cost-effective option if you have a spouse or partner who is working at a job and their medical plan can cover you too. Talk to your spouse about this potential option.
Public Marketplace Plans
Were established by the Affordable Care Act and are available to anyone—you can’t be denied even with a pre-existing condition. Costs for these plans can vary widely, and some people may qualify for government subsidies.
Can be purchased through a health insurance agent. These often have more options available but no government subsidies. Go to your search engine and search for “retirement health insurance options” to research this option.
Retiree Medical Coverage
Through Delta, so you can continue health coverage.
