It is never too early to start thinking about and planning for retirement. Whether you are in your mid 20s and just starting out in your career or within five years of retiring, you will want to think about how to make your golden years more comfortable. One way to achieve this is by paying off your debts before you quit your day job.
Read More:- Musk leads world’s richest to $1.5 trillion wealth gain in 2023
We asked financial experts from across the country to tell us which five debts people should consider paying off before they retire. Here are their recommendations.
Credit Cards
It was nearly unanimous among all financial experts that people should pay off any credit card debt prior to retirement.
Read More:- The best Apple Watch in 2024
Kimberly Malesky, CFP, CDFAwith Harmony Investment Management, LLC, explained, “Carrying credit card debt in retirement is ill-advised. The interest rates are high and make it difficult to get out from under once you are on a fixed income in retirement. Taking that pressure off your shoulders in retirement will be worth the wait. Calculate your monthly payments and how long it will take you to pay your credit cards off. Then go from there.”
Khwan Hathai, a CFP and certified financial therapist at Epiphany Financial Therapy, said, “High-interest credit card debt stands at the forefront of debts to be cleared. Credit cards often carry steep interest rates, leading to escalating debt if not addressed. Eliminating this debt is crucial as it not only reduces the amount of interest paid over time but also eases the mental burden of having such high-cost liabilities. The psychological relief of being free from credit card debt cannot be overstated, especially as one transitions into retirement.”
Read More:- Musk leads world’s richest to $1.5 trillion wealth gain in 2023
Car Loans
“Vehicle loan payments can be higher than you want in retirement,” Malesky said. “The same steps above apply here. This is when you weigh your priorities. Do you want a $500 car loan payment in retirement, or would that wipe out your entertainment budget for the month? Understand your priorities so you may make a thoughtful decision.”
Hathai added, “Clearing auto loans before retirement reduces monthly outflows and aligns with the likely reduced need for transportation post-retirement. Owning a vehicle free and clear provides a sense of financial freedom and the option to liquidate an asset if needed in the future.”
Mortgage
“There is much debate on this topic,” Malesky said. “The majority of advisors and experts will advise (you) to pay your home mortgage off before you retire. This is ideal, of course. But it also may not be practical for certain individuals. In this case, applying the same steps above will help you better understand if you can afford the mortgage payment and other lifestyle expenses comfortably in retirement.
Read More:- Musk leads world’s richest to $1.5 trillion wealth gain in 2023
“I will say this: Paying off your home mortgage is one of the most satisfying things you will experience.”
Hathai explained, “While traditionally considered a good debt due to potential tax benefits and its link to a valuable asset, retiring mortgage-free has substantial advantages. It dramatically lowers monthly expenses and provides a sense of security, vital when transitioning to a fixed income during retirement. The psychological impact of owning your home outright is profound, offering peace of mind and a sense of accomplishment.”
Personal Loans
“Personal loans and lines of credit, often accompanied by higher interest rates and not tied to appreciating assets, should be settled as well,” Hathai said. “Reducing these debts can ease financial strain in retirement, allowing for a clearer understanding of available resources.”
Medical or Healthcare Debts
“Lastly,” Hathai said, “addressing medical or healthcare debts is crucial. With healthcare costs potentially rising as one ages, entering retirement without these debts can help better manage future expenses. The strategy of paying off these debts before retirement is not just a financial tactic but also a psychological one.”
