Can You Afford to Retire Before 65?

🧠 Asking the Questions, Out Loud

Back when I was a wee lad—fresh out of college during a wave of hiring freezes—I returned to my high school and college summer job at a grocery store and eventually moved into management. I’ve long since left that career, but every so often I’d stop by to see who was still around.

It was a union store, so we had health benefits through the union. One visit, maybe 15 years ago, I ran into someone I liked and respected. I asked him, “Why are you still working here? Everyone else seems to have retired.”

What he told me has stuck with me ever since.

“Well, I’m 59. My wife and I ran the numbers. Sure, I could retire—but health care costs would eat up most of my pension. I’m planning to work until 65 so I can apply for Medicare.”

He had the long-term wisdom to look past the moment and make a value-based decision. And that was 15 years ago.

💸 The Medicare Gap Is Real—and Growing

Today, that same scenario feels even more relevant. Health care costs have exploded. The gap between early retirement and Medicare eligibility (age 65) can cost thousands per year in premiums, deductibles, and risk exposure.

Whether it’s COBRA, ACA plans, or going uninsured—none of the options are simple. And for many, this isn’t just a financial puzzle. It’s an emotional one.

🌍 GENeXpatLife: Systems for the Next Act

This quiet reckoning is one of the guiding principles behind GENeXpatLife. To take the longer view. To look outside the traditional box. To ask: what if?

What if a move abroad isn’t about escape or reinvention—but about bridging the gap? That space between a career ending—planned or not—and the safety net of Medicare. What if the next act isn’t a leap, but a system?

GENeXpatLife is built on value—not volume, not vanity.
We optimize travel points, credit cards, LLC formation, and global tools to help people move smarter.
We ask the hard questions. We build systems that work.

📚 Related Reading

This article explores the very dilemma my former colleague faced—and many still do today:
👉Yahoo Finance: I'm 62 and Want to Retire, But Health Insurance Is Too Expensive

🗣️ Final Thought

I don’t have the answer—for you or even for myself. But I’m asking the questions, out loud.
And that’s where the next act begins.

🌐 What’s Driving the Shift Toward Retiring Abroad?

or

💸 How Long Will $1 Million USD Last Abroad? Global Cost Comparisons for Intentional Retirement

🌅 This reflection is part of a broader conversation on rethinking midlife systems.

If you’re navigating this gap—or building systems to bridge it—GENeXpatLife is here to ask the questions with you. Subscribe, follow, or reach out. The next act begins with clarity.