MORE BENEFITS OF RETIRING IN ECUADOR
Ecuador's Senior Citizen discount program is intended to help it's own citizens. But, the country's constitution guarantees foreign residents the same rights as citizens-soas a retiree, you'll enjoy the same benefits.
These include 50% off public and private transportation within the country (including Galapagos) ; 50% off tickets for all cultural and sporting events, including movies; 50% off electric and water bills (below certain usage levels); and free domestic landline phone service (does not include long distance and other services). You'll also get 50% off international airfares on Taca, Copa, or AeroGal for round trip flights originating in Ecuador.
Best of all, you never have to stand in line. If you are a senior citizen, when you make a bank deposit or pay your utility bill, it's the law that you go to the front of the line.
When you're over 65, you pay lower income tax. And you get any money spent on VAT refunded each month, up to about $250 .
The Ecuadorian government also guarantees senior citizens access to free health care and nedication, and exemption from Notary and Registration fees. "All expats are able to participate in the Ecuador Social Security medical program", explains Jack Moss who, with his wife Debbie, retired to Cotacachi two years ago. "There are no exams necessary for those under age 60. Over 60 there are a series of medical tests, but a pre-existing condition is not a reason to be denied coverage. The premium is $57/month, and there is no co-pay or deductable for physician visits, hospitalization, medications, or dental visits."
Ecuador's Senior Citizen discount program is intended to help it's own citizens. But, the country's constitution guarantees foreign residents the same rights as citizens-soas a retiree, you'll enjoy the same benefits.
These include 50% off public and private transportation within the country (including Galapagos) ; 50% off tickets for all cultural and sporting events, including movies; 50% off electric and water bills (below certain usage levels); and free domestic landline phone service (does not include long distance and other services). You'll also get 50% off international airfares on Taca, Copa, or AeroGal for round trip flights originating in Ecuador.
Best of all, you never have to stand in line. If you are a senior citizen, when you make a bank deposit or pay your utility bill, it's the law that you go to the front of the line.
When you're over 65, you pay lower income tax. And you get any money spent on VAT refunded each month, up to about $250 .
The Ecuadorian government also guarantees senior citizens access to free health care and nedication, and exemption from Notary and Registration fees. "All expats are able to participate in the Ecuador Social Security medical program", explains Jack Moss who, with his wife Debbie, retired to Cotacachi two years ago. "There are no exams necessary for those under age 60. Over 60 there are a series of medical tests, but a pre-existing condition is not a reason to be denied coverage. The premium is $57/month, and there is no co-pay or deductable for physician visits, hospitalization, medications, or dental visits."
