Key Points
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While you might spend less on certain expenses in retirement, other expenses could rise.
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Health issues could lead to larger medical bills.
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Being home more often could cost you as well.
You’ll often hear that in retirement, you shouldn’t need as much income as you did while you were working. And a big reason is that you’re eliminating one big expense: retirement savings.
When you’re working, a good 15% to 20% of your income should ideally go into an IRA or 401(k) plan. But you don’t need to save for retirement once you’re in retirement, which means a smaller paycheck could be enough.
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That doesn’t mean all your expenses will magically fall in retirement, though. Sure, you might spend less on transportation if you don’t have a commute. And you might spend less on housing if your mortgage is paid off. But here are three costs that could easily rise once your career comes to an end.
1. Utilities
When you spend eight hours per day at an office, you don’t have to keep your house cool or warm during that time. Once you’re retired, though, you may spend a lot more time at home. That means you may end up with higher utility costs than expected.
Budget carefully and talk to your utility company about payment plans. Some offer the option to spread payments evenly throughout the year, so you’re not hit with spikes in the summer or winter that strain your finances.
2. Entertainment
Working is a great way to keep busy. But once you stop working, you’re apt to have more hours to fill during the week. And that could lead to higher costs.
If you only have a limited entertainment budget, try to prioritize low-cost options that can fill up more hours. A fitness club membership, for example, might give you access to a pool, equipment, and classes that can keep you busy multiple days a week.
It’s also smart to seek out low- or no-cost entertainment options locally. See if your community center offers programs that appeal to you, or start a club based on an interest you have, whether it’s reading, cooking, or hiking.
3. Healthcare
You may see your healthcare costs rise in retirement for two reasons. First, as people age, health issues can arise. Secondly, you may not have the same level of coverage under Medicare that you had when you were covered by a workplace plan.
Make sure to prioritize healthcare in your budget. But also, take steps to keep your costs lower. Talk to your providers about generics if you take multiple prescriptions, and make sure to review your Medicare plan choices every year during fall open enrollment.
Even though a lot of people manage to get by on less in retirement, don’t assume that every single bill will go down. Keep these three costs on your radar so you can manage your expenses with minimal stress.
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