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Navigating Retirement: Annuities vs. IRA Withdrawals for Cornerstone Building Brands Employees

There are just a couple of things almost all Cornerstone Building Brands retirees need when they hit retirement: predictable income and protection against a cluster of risks, which include longevity risk, performance risk and sequence-of-returns risk.

In the past we have seen retiring Cornerstone Building Brands employees utilize the “4% rule,” where retirees take annual withdrawals start at 4% of the entire portfolio and increase with inflation. They then keep the remainder of the portfolio with at least 50% invested in equities. Based on historical data, this would give a Cornerstone Building Brands retiree about 30 years of retirement income.

As the economy constantly changes, a number of factors may force prospective Cornerstone Building Brands retirees to revisit the 4% rule. It may be worth considering annuities as an alternative.

As life expectancies increase, Cornerstone Building Brands retirees need to prepare for expenses over a longer time frame. In the past we would plan for a 15 to 20 year retirement, but now we need to prepare for a 30 to 35 year retirement. What is available to assist meeting the 35-year time frame?

The annuity strategy can assist with a few of the pitfalls we see in the 4% rule. For example:

If you need $50,000 per year in retirement and need that for 30 years, you may need $1.2 million in fixed income at a 3% interest rate. BUT if you look to fund $50,000 for 30 years, you can cover that expense with $800,000 by choosing the annuity option.

The other pitfall with the 4% rule is that it may not reflect a client’s risk tolerance. When you are accumulating assets, you can afford more volatility and can take on more risk than when in the retirement and withdrawal phase after leaving Cornerstone Building Brands.

Also, should we see a drop in the market, you would be able to reduce your income using the 4% rule, which you cannot do if you choose an annuity option.

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What is the 401(k) plan offered by Cornerstone Building Brands?

The 401(k) plan at Cornerstone Building Brands is a retirement savings plan that allows employees to save a portion of their paycheck before taxes are taken out.

How can I enroll in the 401(k) plan at Cornerstone Building Brands?

Employees can enroll in the Cornerstone Building Brands 401(k) plan through the company’s HR portal or by contacting the HR department for assistance.

Does Cornerstone Building Brands match employee contributions to the 401(k) plan?

Yes, Cornerstone Building Brands offers a matching contribution to the 401(k) plan, which helps employees boost their retirement savings.

What is the maximum contribution limit for the 401(k) plan at Cornerstone Building Brands?

The maximum contribution limit for the Cornerstone Building Brands 401(k) plan is set according to IRS regulations, which may change annually.

Can I change my contribution percentage for the 401(k) plan at Cornerstone Building Brands?

Yes, employees can change their contribution percentage for the Cornerstone Building Brands 401(k) plan at any time through the HR portal.

What investment options are available in the Cornerstone Building Brands 401(k) plan?

The Cornerstone Building Brands 401(k) plan offers a variety of investment options, including mutual funds and target-date funds, to suit different risk tolerances.

When can I start withdrawing from my 401(k) plan at Cornerstone Building Brands?

Employees can typically start withdrawing from their Cornerstone Building Brands 401(k) plan at age 59½, but there are specific conditions and options available.

Is there a loan option available through the 401(k) plan at Cornerstone Building Brands?

Yes, Cornerstone Building Brands allows employees to take loans against their 401(k) savings, subject to certain terms and conditions.

What happens to my 401(k) plan if I leave Cornerstone Building Brands?

If you leave Cornerstone Building Brands, you have several options for your 401(k) plan, including rolling it over to an IRA, leaving it with the plan, or cashing it out.

How often can I change my investment allocations in the Cornerstone Building Brands 401(k) plan?

Employees can change their investment allocations in the Cornerstone Building Brands 401(k) plan as often as they like, typically through the HR portal.

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For more information you can reach the plan administrator for Cornerstone Building Brands at 5020 Weston Pkwy. Cary, NC 27513; or by calling them at 919-677-3900.