4 Hidden Retirement Costs—and How to Reduce Them

If you’re saving for retirement, you’re on the right track compared to most Americans. A recent Bankrate survey found that 20% of Americans aren’t saving any money. If you are saving, are you saving enough?

Common advice dictates saving 10 to 12 times your current income for that nest egg. Sometimes the formula isn’t that simple, especially when you take into account hidden costs.

The good news? With a little extra planning, you can combat these hidden costs.

Cost #1: Retirement Account Fees

When you’re saving, a little money can add up over the long term. Unfortunately, the same holds true for retirement account fees.

Most fees range from 1–2%, which may sound insignificant. But according to CNBC, someone with “2% in fees will run out of money 10 years sooner” than those with 1%.

How to Reduce It

There are two steps to saving more of what’s yours.

Step 1: Read the fine print. Ask for a copy of your prospectus. It’s in this tedious, but telling, document that you’ll find your expense ratio or how much your investment company charges to manage your account.

Step 2: Determine your tolerance. If you’re happy with the returns, perhaps the fees are manageable. For most, however, the risk outweighs the rewards. Business Insider recommends dumping that actively managed fund for an index. The latter matches with the S&P 500, for example, to give you broad exposure and lower operating expenses.

Cost #2: Health Care

Your health is essential to truly enjoying retirement. The fact is we’re living longer as a nation—and need to plan accordingly. Fidelity Investments estimates a healthy 65-year-old couple retiring in 2018 will need close to $300,000 solely for health care costs.

How to Reduce It

Health care costs will rise. Accordingly, add a line item in your budget for those unpredictable under-the-weather days. If you plan to retire before 65, consider adding a little more padding to cover health insurance premiums pre-Medicare.

Cost #3: Transportation

From gas to insurance, maintenance to repairs, your car expenses add up. It’s likely you’ll spend 12% for transportation in retirement.

How to Reduce It

Your car is an extension of your identity—and freedom. Downsizing to one car may be a difficult decision but cuts your expenses in half. If you’re already in a one-car house or are looking for cheaper ways to supplement your one car, look to public transportation and car-sharing services like Zipcar or car2go.

Cost #4: Housing

Roof replacement, boiler maintenance, appliance servicing: Housing costs weigh in at a hefty 33.9% of expenses for those 65 and older. Just as we age, so too does our dwelling. Regular upkeep is part of owning your home.

How to Reduce It

If you plan to stay in your home, pay off as much of your mortgage as you can. The less you have in monthly payments without a steady income, the better. If you’re open to moving, set the stage to sell by doing some surface upgrades. This can help flip your house more quickly when the time comes to relocate.

The Upside to Asking for Help

Planning for retirement is personal, but you don’t have to do it alone. Talk to retired friends, family, and colleagues for advice and guidance.

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