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Navigating Retirement: Annuities vs. IRA Withdrawals for Lyft Employees

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

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

As life expectancies increase, Lyft 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 Lyft.

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 type of retirement savings plan does Lyft offer to its employees?

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

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

Yes, Lyft provides a company match for employee contributions to the 401(k) plan, helping to enhance their retirement savings.

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

Lyft employees are typically eligible to participate in the 401(k) plan after completing a specified period of employment, usually within the first year.

Can Lyft employees choose how much to contribute to their 401(k)?

Yes, Lyft employees can choose their contribution amount, up to the IRS annual contribution limits.

What investment options are available in Lyft's 401(k) plan?

Lyft's 401(k) plan offers a variety of investment options, including mutual funds, index funds, and other investment vehicles to suit different risk tolerances.

How often can Lyft employees change their 401(k) contribution amounts?

Lyft employees can change their 401(k) contribution amounts at regular intervals, typically on a quarterly basis or as specified by the plan.

Is there a vesting schedule for the company match in Lyft's 401(k) plan?

Yes, Lyft has a vesting schedule for the company match, meaning employees must work for a certain period before they fully own the matched funds.

Can Lyft employees take loans against their 401(k) savings?

Yes, Lyft allows employees to take loans against their 401(k) savings, subject to specific terms and conditions outlined in the plan.

What happens to my 401(k) if I leave Lyft?

If you leave Lyft, you have several options for your 401(k), including rolling it over to a new employer's plan, transferring it to an IRA, or cashing it out (though this may incur taxes and penalties).

How can Lyft employees access their 401(k) account information?

Lyft employees can access their 401(k) account information through the designated online portal or by contacting the plan administrator.