How to Retire from Teaching Early
Early retirement is something we all desire as educators.
Retirement is not an easy process on its own, but early retirement is an even more difficult path to navigate. There is much to understand before deciding to stop the lesson planning and begin your retirement years. It may be difficult to navigate what to do before retirement, and that is why National Educational Services is here to support retiring teachers.
This article will provide information to help you make an informed decision about your retirement.
Things for Teachers to Consider About Retirement
Retirement is a major decision, and there are many matters to consider especially when it comes to retiring early.
Below are some of the most important points to consider and answer when questioning if it is time to retire.
Questions to Consider:
- How much income will I receive from Social Security?
- What other retirement funds do I have set up, and how much will I receive from them?
- Will I work after retirement? If so, how much will I work?
- How early should individuals, specifically teachers, retire?
Other Topics to Ponder:
- Medical insurance and coverage before age 65.
- Medical insurance and coverage after age 65.
- Post-retirement activities and hobbies.
How Early Can I Retire as a Teacher?
One of the first things you must determine before considering retirement is when you are eligible to receive benefits from your pension.
Although, just because you are eligible to receive payments from your pension, it may not mean you should retire yet. Before choosing to retire, there are many physical, personal, financial, and emotional factors to consider before making the final decision.
Regular Retirement Age
The regular retirement age for teachers varies based on each state. Make sure you check with your specific state teacher’s association to understand when you are vested and the age requirement for retirement.
Early Retirement Age
It is essential to understand when you retire early, you will not receive full benefits from your pension. It is most common for early retirement to be between 50 and 59 years old and have a certain number of service years.
Based on your age, you will determine how much of your benefits you will receive. This information is also State teacher association specific.
See a list compiled for all 50 States here: https://www.teacherpensions.org/blog/what-teacher-retirement-age-my-state.
Income Post-Retirement
For most educators, the amount of income you will receive during retirement is the biggest factor for deciding when to retire. While your pension will be a major contributor to your retirement income, you should also consider your investments, Social Security income, savings, and any other retirement plans you may have.
Social Security Benefits
Understanding when to apply for Social Security income is a very complex topic. There are many reasons not to file before your regular retirement age, as well as what filing before may mean for your income.
Contact National Educational Services
Journeying into retirement life is a whole new world, full of lots of free time that can be put to good use or wasted away if you do not make the most of it.
Make sure you talk with an expert financial advisor and determine how much supplemental income you may earn, as well as the insurance plans that may be available to you.
Most importantly, make your retirement enjoyable and fulfilling, as it is important and rewarding for your mental and physical health.
