Retirement Might Be Closer Than You Think—But Are You Truly Ready?

You’ve spent your career making lesson plans, grading papers, and showing up for your students every single day. But here’s the real test: Are you as prepared for retirement as you think you are?

Believe it or not, even the most responsible educators—public or private—can be blindsided by unexpected costs in retirement. Shocking, right?

That’s exactly why we’re hosting a live online episode of Educator’s Financial Foresight Weekly, where I’ll walk you through 5 hidden retirement costs that could sneak up on you if you're not careful. More importantly, I’ll show you how to beat them at their own game using something I call the PATH Process—my planning system built just for educators like you.

So if you’ve been crossing your fingers and hoping your pension will “just work out,” it’s time for a serious financial reality check (but don’t worry—it won’t hurt). 😉

Why This Topic Matters—Especially for Educators

Let’s be honest: teachers and school staff aren’t just underpaid—they’re also under-informed when it comes to retirement planning. We’re so focused on serving others that we often put ourselves last. But in retirement? That can cost you.

Here’s what I’ve seen after working with hundreds of educators:

• Many overestimate their pension payouts

• Most don’t plan for taxes on those payouts

• Few account for rising healthcare costs or inflation

• Almost none understand how Social Security fits in

• And—big surprise—retirement always costs more than expected

If any of this sounds familiar, you’re not alone.

But you do need to take action. And that’s where this event comes in.

Do you know whom I should talk to about this?

Hey there—I’m Debbie Majher, financial advisor, educator advocate, and host of Educator’s Financial Foresight Weekly. My passion is helping teachers, school employees, and administrators build a future they can enjoy (and afford).

I get how it feels to stare at a pension statement and still wonder, Will this be enough?

Through years of experience, I created the PATH Process—a 4-step approach that makes retirement planning simple, personal, and less scary. It’s designed to give you clarity even if you’re not a “numbers person.”

And I want to teach it to you. Live. Online. In plain English.

So What Exactly Are These “Retirement Shockers”?

Let’s talk about the 5 hidden costs that trip up most educators. These aren’t just minor line items—they can be budget-busters if you’re not careful.

1. Healthcare After Retirement

You might think your coverage ends when you stop teaching. But then what?

• Medicare doesn’t kick in until age 65

• You may need a bridge plan for early retirement

• Dental, vision, and hearing? Not covered

• Long-term care? Often forgotten entirely

2. Taxes on Your Pension

Your pension feels like a “guaranteed” income, but...

• Most pensions are taxable income

• That Social Security you earned (if you get it)? Also taxed

• Retire in a high-tax state, and your money doesn’t stretch far

3. Inflation Over Time

Let’s say you retire with a $3,000/month pension.

Sounds nice now. But in 15 years?

• That same $3,000 may feel more like $2,100

• Grocery and gas prices keep rising

• COLAs (Cost-of-Living Adjustments) aren’t always generous

4. Caring for Others

The “sandwich generation” is real. You might end up helping:

• Aging parents with medical costs

• Adult children who move back in

• Grandkids who need help with college

It’s noble—but it’s also expensive.

5. Boredom Spending (Yes, Really)

Once you’re no longer in the classroom, you’ll have time. Lots of it.

• Travel, hobbies, or home renovations? Fun, but pricey

• Dining out and entertainment tend to increase

• Without a spending plan, money disappears quickly

The PATH Process: Your Educator-Friendly Retirement Roadmap

Here’s the good news: you don’t need to figure this out on your own.

On this week’s Educator’s Financial Foresight Weekly, I’ll teach you the PATH Process, my 4-step system that helps educators like you prepare with confidence.

P – Personal Expenses

Learn how to estimate your real cost of living—not just the basics, but everything from Netflix to new glasses.

A – Assets and Income

We’ll map out what you have (pension, savings, side gigs) and what gaps might exist.

T – Time

Whether you’re retiring in 3 years or 13, your timeline changes everything. I’ll show you how to plan based on your window.

H – Holistic Planning

It’s not just about money—it’s about legacy, peace of mind, and aligning your finances with your life goals.

You’ll walk away with real, actionable steps you can take immediately.

FAQs – Because I Know You’ve Got Questions

Q: I’m still 10+ years away from retiring. Is this for me? Absolutely. The earlier you understand these expenses, the better decisions you can make today.

Q: Will this apply to private school educators, too? Yes! Whether you’re in public, private, or even charter—this info can help you prepare smarter.

Q: I already have a pension. Isn’t that enough? Not always. This session helps you spot the gaps your pension won’t cover.

Q: Can I watch the replay if I miss it live? Yep! Just RSVP and we’ll send it straight to your inbox after the show.

Let’s Wrap It Up: Don’t Be the Educator Who Gets Caught Off Guard

To recap:

• Retirement is more expensive than most educators expect

• Healthcare, taxes, and inflation are common pitfalls

• The PATH Process offers a simple, 4-step plan to stay ahead

• You’re invited to a free online workshop to learn all about it

Now it’s your turn. Are you going to keep guessing—or start planning?

📌 Challenge for This Week: Pick just one area you know you’ve overlooked—maybe healthcare, or taxes—and commit to learning more about it. Better yet, RSVP for the live event and let’s dig into it together!

👇 Drop a comment below if you’re planning to attend or share your #1 retirement question. I’ll answer a few of them live during the show!

Want more educator-specific financial insights? 📧 Join our newsletter or subscribe on YouTube! 💬 DM me “RETIREMENT” for your free PATH worksheet.

Let’s turn your years in the classroom into a retirement you can truly enjoy. 🧡