There are just a couple of things almost all TravelCenters of America 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 TravelCenters of America 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 TravelCenters of America retiree about 30 years of retirement income.
As the economy constantly changes, a number of factors may force prospective TravelCenters of America retirees to revisit the 4% rule. It may be worth considering annuities as an alternative.
As life expectancies increase, TravelCenters of America 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 TravelCenters of America.
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 plan does TravelCenters of America offer to its employees?
TravelCenters of America offers a 401(k) retirement savings plan to its employees.
How can employees of TravelCenters of America enroll in the 401(k) plan?
Employees can enroll in the TravelCenters of America 401(k) plan by completing the enrollment form provided during orientation or through the company's benefits portal.
Does TravelCenters of America match employee contributions to the 401(k) plan?
Yes, TravelCenters of America offers a matching contribution to employees who participate in the 401(k) plan, subject to specific terms and conditions.
What is the eligibility requirement for TravelCenters of America employees to participate in the 401(k) plan?
Generally, employees of TravelCenters of America are eligible to participate in the 401(k) plan after completing a specified period of service, typically 30 days.
Can employees of TravelCenters of America take loans against their 401(k) savings?
Yes, TravelCenters of America allows employees to take loans against their 401(k) savings, subject to the plan's terms and conditions.
What investment options are available in the TravelCenters of America 401(k) plan?
The TravelCenters of America 401(k) plan offers a variety of investment options, including mutual funds, target-date funds, and other investment vehicles.
How often can employees of TravelCenters of America change their 401(k) contribution amount?
Employees can change their 401(k) contribution amount at any time, subject to the plan's guidelines.
What is the vesting schedule for TravelCenters of America’s 401(k) matching contributions?
The vesting schedule for TravelCenters of America’s 401(k) matching contributions typically follows a graded vesting schedule, which means employees earn ownership of the match over a period of time.
Are there any fees associated with the TravelCenters of America 401(k) plan?
Yes, there may be administrative fees associated with the TravelCenters of America 401(k) plan, which are disclosed in the plan's summary documents.
How can employees of TravelCenters of America access their 401(k) account information?
Employees can access their 401(k) account information through the online benefits portal provided by TravelCenters of America.