Retired at 52, out 5 years now

[Walt34]

I retired five years ago after 29 years in law enforcement. The retirement plan I'm under they stopped offering in 1978 when some fool accountant/actuary took a look at the numbers and fainted.

We have 100% COLAS! I don't think they "make those anymore".

Medical & prescription coverage for life for 30% of the premium (when working I paid 20%). That becomes secondary to Medicare at 65.

Zero debt, own the house, and a comfortable amount in savings/deferred compensation accounts. Not wealthy by a long shot but I'm pretty sure we'll never be eating Alpo.

First year was like being on vacation - moved to a less congested area, the panhandle of West Virginia. Then got bored, didn't want to commit to a job, helped a friend build an airplane. Started looking for a part-time job but nothing looked interesting - I am NOT working retail, did that in college and hated it. So I bought a boat and went fishing.

 

[dex]

Congrats and welcome - I'm 52 and only out 1.5 years. I think you'll like the fishing here.

 

[Retire Soon]

Walt34, congratulations on your ER. Your insurance is unheard of by today's standards and having your home paid off is a plus. Like Dex, I've been out only 1.5 years. I am now 56. Welcome to the forum!

 

[template]

Welcome to the forums, Walt34. With your generous pension and retirement benefits, you've got it made. Stick around and enjoy the banter.

 

[Purron]

Hi all,

I'm 52 and am taking early retirement in just two weeks. I've done all the math and feel our plan is solid. After working for over 30 years, however, this is a rather daunting step to take. I'm glad to hear from some folks who took the plunge and are happy to have done so!

 

[Rambler]

Welcome. I've got 18 months to go. Look forward to reading your experiences!

R

 

[pentang.fog]

Congrats from here, too, hopefully I'll be following in those steps soon, looking forward to relaxing and practicing my guitar licks.