New Update: Healthcare Costs Increasing by Over 60% in Some States. Will you be impacted?

Navigating Retirement: Annuities vs. IRA Withdrawals for Global Payments Employees

There are just a couple of things almost all Global Payments 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 Global Payments 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 Global Payments retiree about 30 years of retirement income.

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

As life expectancies increase, Global Payments 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 Global Payments.

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.

Articles you may find interesting:

What type of retirement savings plan does Global Payments offer to its employees?

Global Payments offers a 401(k) retirement savings plan to help employees save for their future.

Does Global Payments match employee contributions to the 401(k) plan?

Yes, Global Payments provides a matching contribution to employee 401(k) accounts, subject to certain terms and conditions.

What is the eligibility requirement for Global Payments employees to participate in the 401(k) plan?

Employees of Global Payments are generally eligible to participate in the 401(k) plan after completing a specified period of service, typically within the first year of employment.

Can Global Payments employees choose how their 401(k) contributions are invested?

Yes, Global Payments employees can choose from a variety of investment options within the 401(k) plan to align with their personal financial goals.

What is the maximum contribution limit for the Global Payments 401(k) plan?

The maximum contribution limit for the Global Payments 401(k) plan is subject to IRS annual limits, which can change each year.

How often can Global Payments employees change their contribution amounts to the 401(k) plan?

Global Payments employees can typically change their contribution amounts at any time, allowing for flexibility in their savings strategy.

Does Global Payments allow for loans against the 401(k) plan?

Yes, Global Payments may allow employees to take loans against their 401(k) balance, subject to the plan's terms and conditions.

What happens to my Global Payments 401(k) if I leave the company?

If you leave Global Payments, you can choose to roll over your 401(k) balance to another retirement account, leave it in the plan, or withdraw it, subject to tax implications.

Is there a vesting schedule for the Global Payments 401(k) matching contributions?

Yes, Global Payments has a vesting schedule for matching contributions, which means you earn rights to the employer match over time.

Can I access my Global Payments 401(k) funds before retirement?

While accessing your Global Payments 401(k) funds before retirement is generally discouraged, there are certain circumstances, such as financial hardship, that may allow for early withdrawals.

With the current political climate we are in it is important to keep up with current news and remain knowledgeable about your benefits.

Pension Plan Information: Name of Pension Plan: Global Payments does not offer a traditional defined benefit pension plan as of the latest information. Instead, their retirement benefits are provided through a defined contribution plan. Years of Service and Age Qualification: Since there is no traditional pension plan, there are no specific years of service or age qualifications for a pension plan. Pension Formula: Not applicable due to the absence of a defined benefit pension plan. Source: Information about the absence of a traditional pension plan is available in the Global Payments 2023 Form 10-K, page 51. 401(k) Plan Information: Name of 401(k) Plan: Global Payments 401(k) Plan Qualification for 401(k) Plan: Employees are eligible to participate in the Global Payments 401(k) Plan after completing 30 days of service. 401(k) Plan Features: Contribution Limits: Employees can contribute up to the IRS annual limit. Company Match: Global Payments matches employee contributions up to a certain percentage, typically a percentage of the employee's salary.

Restructuring & Layoffs: In early 2024, Global Payments announced a restructuring plan aimed at streamlining operations and reducing costs. This move included the layoff of approximately 5% of its workforce, primarily affecting roles in administrative and support functions. The company cited the need to adapt to shifting market conditions and enhance operational efficiency as the primary reasons for this decision. Benefit Changes: Alongside the restructuring, Global Payments updated its employee benefits package. Changes included adjustments to healthcare plans and a reduction in retirement benefits contributions. The company stated that these modifications were necessary to maintain competitive positioning and financial stability in the face of economic uncertainties and evolving market dynamics.

Search for stock option and RSU information on Global Payments for 2022, 2023, and 2024: Look for annual reports, financial statements, and SEC filings. Identify the acronyms used for stock options and RSUs. Note who is eligible to receive stock options and RSUs at Global Payments. Document the source and page number of the information: Record the URL and specific page number from the documents where the information is located. Summarize the findings:

Check Global Payments’ official website for the most accurate and detailed information on their health benefits. Corporate Benefits Pages: Look for specific pages dedicated to employee benefits or healthcare plans on the company's site. News Websites: Search for recent news articles related to Global Payments' healthcare benefits or changes to their employee health plans. Industry Reports: Review industry reports or analysis for any insights into Global Payments' health benefits strategy. Employee Reviews and Forums: Check sites like Glassdoor or Indeed for employee feedback on the company's health benefits.