If you are retiring before 65, you need coverage to bridge the gap until Medicare begins. The good news is there are strong, affordable options, and careful income planning can unlock subsidies that lower your premium significantly.
Medicare starts at 65, so if you retire earlier you need private coverage to fill the gap. Most early retirees use an ACA marketplace plan, and because subsidies are based on income, retirees who can manage their taxable income often qualify for a large premium credit. COBRA and a spouse plan are other options worth comparing.
Going without coverage before Medicare is one of the most expensive risks in retirement. A single hospital stay can erase years of savings, and this is the age when health issues become more common. A good bridge plan protects the nest egg you worked to build.
An individual plan bought on the marketplace. The most popular choice for early retirees because subsidies can dramatically cut the cost based on your income.
Most commonContinues your former employer plan for a limited time. Familiar coverage, but often expensive since you pay the full premium. Worth comparing against a marketplace plan.
Short-term bridgeIf your spouse still works and has employer coverage, joining their plan may be an option. We help you compare it against buying your own.
If availableHere is the advantage many early retirees miss. ACA subsidies are based on your modified adjusted gross income for the year, not your total savings. Retirees who can control how much taxable income they draw, for example by living partly on savings or a Roth account, can often qualify for a much larger subsidy. That can turn a costly premium into a very affordable one. We help you understand how your income choices affect your subsidy before you enroll.
We learn your retirement date, income plan, and coverage needs.
We estimate your premium credit based on your expected income.
Side-by-side options that bridge you cleanly to age 65.
We handle the paperwork so your coverage starts on time.
Most early retirees use an ACA marketplace plan until Medicare begins at 65. COBRA and a working spouse plan are other options. A licensed advisor can compare all of them and check your subsidy for free.
Yes. ACA subsidies are based on your income, not your savings. Retirees who manage their taxable income can often qualify for a large premium credit that makes coverage affordable.
It depends. COBRA keeps your familiar plan but you pay the full premium, which is often costly. A marketplace plan with a subsidy is frequently cheaper. We compare both so you can see the real numbers.
You become eligible for Medicare and transition off your bridge plan. We can help you plan that transition so there is no gap in coverage.
It varies by age, state, income, and plan. With a subsidy, many early retirees pay far less than the sticker price. We check your exact cost at no charge.
Free, no-pressure help finding affordable coverage until you turn 65.