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Navigating Retirement: Annuities vs. IRA Withdrawals for Universal Health Services Employees

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

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

As life expectancies increase, Universal Health Services 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 Universal Health Services.

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 Universal Health Services?

The 401(k) plan at Universal Health Services is a retirement savings plan that allows employees to save a portion of their salary on a pre-tax basis, helping them prepare for retirement.

Who is eligible to participate in the Universal Health Services 401(k) plan?

Employees of Universal Health Services who meet specific criteria, such as age and length of service, are eligible to participate in the 401(k) plan.

How does Universal Health Services match employee contributions to the 401(k) plan?

Universal Health Services offers a matching contribution to the 401(k) plan, typically matching a percentage of employee contributions up to a certain limit.

Can employees of Universal Health Services make changes to their 401(k) contributions?

Yes, employees of Universal Health Services can adjust their contribution amounts or change their investment options at any time, subject to plan rules.

What investment options are available in the Universal Health Services 401(k) plan?

The Universal Health Services 401(k) plan offers a variety of investment options, including mutual funds, stocks, and bonds, allowing employees to diversify their portfolios.

When can employees of Universal Health Services start withdrawing from their 401(k) accounts?

Employees of Universal Health Services can typically begin withdrawing from their 401(k) accounts without penalty after reaching age 59½, with certain exceptions.

Does Universal Health Services provide educational resources for employees regarding their 401(k) plan?

Yes, Universal Health Services offers educational resources, including workshops and online tools, to help employees understand their 401(k) plan and make informed decisions.

What happens to the 401(k) plan if an employee leaves Universal Health Services?

If an employee leaves Universal Health Services, they can choose to roll over their 401(k) balance to another retirement account, cash out, or leave it in the Universal Health Services plan if allowed.

Are there any fees associated with the Universal Health Services 401(k) plan?

Yes, like most 401(k) plans, the Universal Health Services 401(k) plan may have administrative fees and investment fees, which are disclosed in the plan documents.

How can employees of Universal Health Services access their 401(k) account information?

Employees can access their 401(k) account information through the Universal Health Services employee portal or by contacting the plan administrator.