1) Do your research. Start with a simple Google search, but then visit some of the blogs and forums kept by ex-pats in the communities you’re interested in.
3) Live in a place for at least six months before deciding to move. Anything less feels more like a vacation and will not give you a true picture of living without certain American amenities.
4) Check out the ex-pat community and ask questions. They can give you a more accurate estimate of what it will cost to live abroad. Tour companies that specialize in this field tend to underestimate expenses.
5) Rent before buying.
6) Figure out your finances. Open a bank account in your new home to pay for everyday needs, but also keep one in the U.S. so you can pay bills in your hometown, including federal taxes.
7) Apply for a local credit card. This eliminates the conversion fees most U.S. cards charge.
8) Research health insurance options. While you can receive Social Security benefits anywhere you live, Medicare doesn’t travel abroad. Most countries have affordable state-run health programs. Many doctors speak English and are U.S. trained.
9) Learn the language. Though it’s not necessary to become fluent, knowing enough to converse enhances the experiment.
10) Keep track of local news through online newspapers (if you’re thinking about moving to the Yucatan Peninsula, www.theyucatantimes.com is your best option).
Retired workers receiving Social Security benefits abroad
| |||
| Region |
2012
| 2007 | 2002 |
| Mexico |
26,577
| 23,253 |
23,782
|
| Central America & Caribbean |
20,280
| 17,050 |
14,099
|
| South America |
15,698
| 11,650 |
8,677
|
| Canada |
67,378
| 60,920 |
54,488
|
| Europe |
149,782
| 132,255 |
116,406
|
| Total |
359,767
| 295,970 |
242,128
|
Source: Social Security Administration
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