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Navigating Retirement: Annuities vs. IRA Withdrawals for Simon Property Group Employees

Healthcare Provider Update: Simon Property Group provides medical, dental, vision, and prescription drug coverage. Employees may also access Health Savings Accounts (HSAs), wellness programs, and employee assistance programs2. With ACA insurers requesting steep premium hikes and enhanced subsidies set to expire, Simons employer-sponsored plans offer a stable and cost-effective alternative to marketplace coverage, particularly for employees with families or chronic care needs. Click here to learn more

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

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

As life expectancies increase, Simon Property Group 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 Simon Property Group.

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 primary purpose of the 401(k) plan at Simon Property Group?

The primary purpose of the 401(k) plan at Simon Property Group is to help employees save for retirement by allowing them to contribute a portion of their salary on a tax-deferred basis.

Does Simon Property Group offer a matching contribution for its 401(k) plan?

Yes, Simon Property Group offers a matching contribution to encourage employees to save for retirement, typically matching a percentage of employee contributions up to a certain limit.

How can employees at Simon Property Group enroll in the 401(k) plan?

Employees at Simon Property Group can enroll in the 401(k) plan by completing the enrollment process through the company’s benefits portal or by contacting the HR department for assistance.

What types of investment options are available in Simon Property Group's 401(k) plan?

Simon Property Group's 401(k) plan offers a variety of investment options, including mutual funds, target-date funds, and possibly company stock, allowing employees to choose based on their risk tolerance and retirement goals.

At what age can employees at Simon Property Group begin to withdraw funds from their 401(k) plan without penalties?

Employees at Simon Property Group can typically begin to withdraw funds from their 401(k) plan without penalties at age 59½, provided they have met other plan requirements.

Can employees at Simon Property Group take loans against their 401(k) savings?

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

What happens to the 401(k) plan when an employee leaves Simon Property Group?

When an employee leaves Simon Property Group, they have several options for their 401(k) plan, including rolling it over to an IRA or a new employer's plan, cashing it out (subject to taxes and penalties), or leaving it in the current plan if allowed.

How often can employees at Simon Property Group change their 401(k) contribution amounts?

Employees at Simon Property Group can typically change their 401(k) contribution amounts at any time, subject to the plan's specific rules regarding timing and frequency.

Is there a vesting schedule for employer contributions in Simon Property Group's 401(k) plan?

Yes, Simon Property Group has a vesting schedule for employer contributions, meaning employees must work for a certain period before they fully own the employer's contributions to their 401(k) account.

What resources does Simon Property Group provide to help employees manage their 401(k) investments?

Simon Property Group provides resources such as access to financial advisors, educational materials, and online tools to help employees manage their 401(k) investments effectively.