What Can I Do if My Husband Wants to Retire Too Early?

Disagreements on timing disrupt the image of a happily retired couple traveling and enjoying life together. Financial stability is often a chief concern when a spouse wants to retire early. Another source of friction occurs when the other spouse must continue working. Communication and realistic planning are key in settling disagreements on retirement timing.

Review Finances

A full understanding of your financial situation is essential in deciding when to retire. An analysis of your savings and retirement accounts allows you to determine if you have the money necessary to cover your expenses in retirement. Factors affecting retirement expenses include where you'll retire, the type of activities you'll do in retirement, current bills, health care costs and your anticipated life expectancy. The financial analysis provides a concrete picture of whether early retirement for one spouse is feasible.

Express Concerns

Healthy communication about your concerns regarding an early retirement opens the path to resolving the issue. A productive conversation about retirement involves a clear expression of the specific problems you anticipate if he stops working too soon. Both partners should express their visions for retirement and the desired timeline. Your husband may be more willing to hold off on retirement if he hears your arguments on the topic, particularly when presented in a logical, factual manner rather than emotional or hostile.

Negotiate

Negotiations on your husband's retirement provide the opportunity to make both of you feel comfortable with the timing. One option is to ask your husband to wait a few months or years to reach financial goals before retiring. Another way to meet in the middle is for your spouse to work part time instead of completely retiring. Negotiation sometimes includes giving up certain aspects of your lifestyle to make an early retirement work. For example, you might agree to sell a second home to lower expenses so your husband can retire early. Your specific financial situation is key in negotiating an arrangement that works for both of you.

Consult a Professional

A financial planner offers professional advice to couples about retirement planning. A professional reviews your financial situation, including assets, debts, expenses and retirement savings, to provide a personalized recommendation for moving forward. Your spouse may be more willing to listen to a financial planner when it comes to waiting for retirement. The meeting with a professional planner also gives you a chance to address your concerns and may help you realize early retirement is an option.