Belize has gotten a lot of attention lately as a haven for retirees and it’s not hard to see why:

• The official language is English.

• US currency is accepted and

• It is relatively cheap to move there.

Belize is bordered by Guatemala, Mexico, and the Caribbean Sea. Since it is in the Caribbean Sea, the water is warm throughout the year. The flight from New York City to Belize City is a little over 4 hours which makes it very attractive to Americans because they can get back to the US quickly, but feel like they are a world away.

Retirement for Belizeans

In Belize, if you are over 14 and working, you can contribute to Social Security, but you must apply yourself. If a person is self-employed, they can apply to become an insured person. Once a Belizean is an insured person, they can receive several different types of benefits. Some of the benefits are: sickness benefit, maternity benefit, retirement benefit, disability benefit and survivor benefit.

With the Retirement Benefit, a person can start collecting between the ages of 60 and 64 if they retire from an insurable job; if they decide not to retire, they can still receive the Retirement Benefit, starting at age 65. Belizeans who do not qualify for the Retirement Benefit can obtain a Retirement Allowance, which is a one-time payment.

Americans in Belize

Retiring to Belize is extremely easy to do; the government has set up incentives for people to retire there. If you are over the age of 45 and have a monthly income of at least $2,000, then you may qualify for the Qualified Retirement Program, which allows you to bring in all your belongings tax-free! You will not have to pay taxes on money you earn outside of Belize or on any money you inherit. Also, if you want to live somewhere that has a small town atmosphere, Belize is perfect. It is only 180 miles long by 68 miles wide with a population of 300,000 people. Belizean people are known for being friendly and will make you feel at home right away.

Health care in Belize keeps pace with the needs of American retirees. However, while local doctors can treat minor ailments, it is recommended that if you have a serious medical condition, you go to neighboring Mexico or Guatemala or return to the US for treatment.

The cost of living in Belize varies depending on where you choose to live and the type of amenities you want. Renting an apartment or house can cost anywhere from $500 per month to several thousand dollars per month. Belize is known as one of the most expensive countries in Central America, so you will spend more than some of the neighboring countries.

adventures galore

Belize is home to the second largest barrier reef in the world, making for fantastic diving and fishing. Between the beaches and the jungle, there is always something to do. Some of the most popular activities in Belize are: hiking in the rainforest, exploring Mayan ruins, canopy tours, caving, kayaking and any water sport. It’s not just adventures you can go to Belize for; there are plenty of relaxing activities. Belize’s beautiful beaches provide you with plenty of opportunities to sit back and relax while soaking up the sun.

Living in the beautiful country will bring you many visitors as your family and friends will flock to Belize for vacations instead of you having to go see them.

This small country makes it very easy for Americans to live a very comfortable life with very little money. Although Belize is becoming a popular destination for retirees, it does not mean that this is the place for everyone. Doing your research before moving to any country is always an important step in choosing your retirement destination abroad.