Money that Buys Good Health is Never Ill Spent

April 21, 2014

phil

Health Insurance

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According to a 2012 survey by the Insured Retirement Institute, the average person covered by Medicare will have out-of-pocket medical expenses in excess of $4,300 a year (or $8,600 for a couple). The same report found that 63% of baby boomers lack the confidence that they will have enough money to fund their medical expenses in retirement.¹With health care expenses in the spotlight, it’s incumbent upon us to make sure our retirement strategy anticipates these costs.

But that’s not enough.

Remember, health-care coverage (including Medicare) typically does not cover extended medical care. And it’s a prospect we shouldn’t overlook.

The Department of Health & Human Services estimates that about 70% of people will need extended care at some point in their lives.²

These annual costs can range widely based on geographic location, from over $53,000 in Oklahoma to over $250,000 in Alaska. When Baby Boomers were surveyed, only 24% said they were “extremely” or “very confident” in meeting extended care costs for themselves and even less—14%—were “extremely” or “very confident” in covering the costs for their parents.³

Finally, you may want to consider a Medigap policy, which may help cover some of the health-care costs not covered by Medicare.

Making sure that you are properly insured for your medical costs may help strengthen the foundation of your retirement.

  1. Insured Retirement Institute, January 2012
  2. Department of Health & Human Services, June 2013
  3. Insured Retirement Institute, November 2012. Cost of a private-room nursing home stay.

The content is developed from sources believed to be providing accurate information. The information in this material is not intended as tax or legal advice. It may not be used for the purpose of avoiding any federal tax penalties. Please consult legal or tax professionals for specific information regarding your individual situation. This material was developed and produced by FMG Suite to provide information on a topic that may be of interest. The opinions expressed and material provided are for general information, and should not be considered a solicitation for the purchase or sale of any security. Copyright 2014 FMG Suite.

Post by Phil Ratcliff

Phil Ratcliff, President of rebel Financial, is a senior financial advisor that holds an AIF®, CFP®, ChFC®, and CLU® certifications. He started his career at American Express Financial Advisors in 2003, then moved to AXA Advisors for 7 years before founding rebel Financial LLC in 2013.