If you want to retire early—before age 65 when Medicare starts—then having good health insurance is very important. Even if you’re healthy now, medical problems can happen unexpectedly. Without insurance, healthcare can become extremely expensive. That’s why it’s smart to think about your options and costs before deciding to retire early.

If you’re used to getting health insurance through your job, retirement can be a big change. Once you leave your job, you may need to buy your own insurance. This can be a lot more expensive. Some people end up paying over $1,000 a month. You might also have to pay more when you visit the doctor or get medicine. Also, your choices for doctors and hospitals might be more limited.

Let’s look at one helpful option for early retirees: getting a part-time job that offers health insurance. This can help cover your needs without going back to full-time work.

1. Get a Job That Offers Insurance to Part-Time Workers

One good option is working part-time for a company that offers health insurance to part-time employees. Some companies do this to attract skilled workers, even if they’re not working full-time. If your current employer offers this kind of plan, consider staying with them part-time after you retire. If not, you might look for a new job that provides this benefit.

The big advantage of employer-provided insurance is that companies usually get better prices and coverage than individuals can get on their own. They also may offer wellness programs—like gym discounts, health checks, or support for quitting smoking—that can help you stay healthy and live longer.

Even working just a few days a week could give you access to affordable insurance and help stretch your retirement savings. It’s a win-win: you get health coverage, and you stay active and connected.

Explore Other Options Too

While working part-time with benefits is one good choice, there are other ways to get insurance before Medicare. These include:

  • Buying a plan through the Affordable Care Act (ACA) marketplace

  • Using COBRA to keep your employer’s insurance for a short time

  • Joining a spouse’s health plan if they’re still working

  • Looking into state programs or health-sharing plans (with caution)

Each option comes with different rules, costs, and coverage. That’s why it’s important to compare plans, check if your doctor is covered, and think about what you need based on your health.

Final Thoughts

Before you retire early, make sure you understand your health insurance options. Medical costs can be one of the biggest risks in retirement. Taking the time to find the right insurance can save you thousands of dollars and a lot of stress. Whether you keep working part-time, join your spouse’s plan, or buy your own insurance, having coverage is a must.

Early retirement can be a great choice—but only if your healthcare is covered. Don’t skip this step.

Published: 6th August 2025

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