Real answers for your healthcare questions

What health insurance options do I have if I retire before age 65?

Answer

If you retire before becoming eligible for Medicare, you may need another source of coverage until age 65. Common options include retiree coverage from an employer, a spouse's employer plan, COBRA, Marketplace insurance, or Medicaid if you qualify.

What to Know

Marketplace savings are based partly on household income, so retirement can change the amount of financial assistance available. COBRA can preserve your existing employer plan, but it may be more expensive once the employer stops contributing.

What to Do Next

Estimate your retirement income and compare coverage before leaving work. Pay particular attention to provider networks, prescriptions, and how long the option will last until Medicare eligibility.

Agent Perspectives

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L
Liz Michel Verified Licensed
Independent Health Insurance BrokerMcKinney, TX

Your options include: Private Health Insurance plans, ACA (Healthcare.gov), or employer-based/association type plans.

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