Advice Please,

lilli_3

I have just over two years to work before retirement. If I work until I am 60 I will receive a lump sump of over £9,000 and a pension of £56 each week. plus my retirement pension. My husband has been diagnosed with a terminal mental illness, at present he is coping while I am at work.
We have debts of £4,000 which will be paid in 11 months, if I take early retirement I will receive £7,000 and a weekly pension of £46.
I feel that I should be spending quality time with my husband while we can but wonder if we would get any help with rent, council tax etc. My husband receives £400 per month in benefits, he will be receiving his retirement pension at Christmas.
Should I retire early and pay the debt off?
I realise the decision may be forced upon me before my retirement.

sweetjamster

he should receive some disability benefits and you, as his primary carer, should get additional carer benefits. ask at your local benefit office as you can further apply if you are struggling.

lilli_3

Thanks for advice sweetjamster, he does receive Disability Benefits, when his health worsens he will get a higher rate and then I will receive carer's allowance.
I suppose I should just cut my losses and plan early retirement, a years salary without having to pay debts was something I had looked forward to. In the end health comes before savings!!

jaybee

Quite apart from the financial aspect (which I am not knowledgeable enough to advise on) maybe you should also consider yourself. You mention that your husband has a terminal mental illness. I totally understand the quality time bit, but don't lose sight of the fact that you will be left to cope later on after the inevitable. I know that this sounds a bit hard-hearted but please remember your own continuing quality of life.

Good luck and many thoughts for your situation. Take care.