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

Discover Hidden Retirement Funds: A Guide for Kroger Employees

Healthcare Provider Update: Healthcare Provider for Kroger Kroger partners with a variety of health insurance providers for its employee healthcare plans, which typically include major insurers such as Anthem Blue Cross Blue Shield, UnitedHealthcare, and others. These partnerships offer comprehensive healthcare coverage options to their employees, ensuring access to a broad network of medical services. Potential Healthcare Cost Increases for Kroger in 2026 As we look ahead to 2026, Kroger employees-along with many others-may face substantial healthcare cost increases as health insurance premiums for Affordable Care Act (ACA) marketplace plans are projected to surge. In some states, premiums could rise by as much as 60%, driven by factors such as the expiration of enhanced federal premium subsidies and escalating medical costs, which are now rising at an alarming rate due to inflation and increased demand for healthcare services. According to analysts, without congressional intervention, the average out-of-pocket premium for ACA enrollees could jump by over 75%, putting financial strain on many families and potentially affecting their access to necessary healthcare services. Click here to learn more

'Kroger employees can greatly benefit from using resources like the Retirement Savings Lost and Found Database and Treasury Hunt to recover unclaimed assets, so that no part of their hard-earned retirement savings is left behind.' — Paul Bergeron, a representative of The Retirement Group, a division of Wealth Enhancement.

'Kroger employees should take advantage of tools like the Retirement Savings Lost and Found Database to track down unclaimed funds, so they can optimize their retirement savings potential.' — Tyson Mavar, a representative of The Retirement Group, a division of Wealth Enhancement.

In this article, we will discuss:

The federal resources available to help locate lost or unclaimed retirement savings.
Key tools like the Retirement Savings Lost and Found Database and other platforms to recover forgotten financial assets.
How retirees can track down unclaimed bank accounts, savings bonds, and pension plans to make the most of their retirement savings.

The Retirement Savings Lost and Found Database is a federal initiative aimed at helping individuals locate their lost pension and 401k funds. Launched by the U.S. Department of Labor (DOL), this tool is one of many available resources designed to assist Kroger employees and others in recovering unclaimed financial assets.

Earlier this year, the public was granted access to the DOL’s database . This platform is particularly useful for Kroger employees who might have lost track of their 401k accounts due to job changes or relocations. Additionally, individuals can seek assistance from the nonprofit Pension Rights Center . If your employer or pension plan falls under one of the 30 states covered by the U.S. Administration for Community Living's Pension Counseling and Information Program, the center will link you to free services.

For Kroger employees looking to recover unclaimed benefits from closed private sector pension plans, the Pension Benefit Guaranty Corporation (PBGC) offers an online platform at pbgc.gov/workers-retirees . Even if the company that sponsored a pension plan has gone out of business, PBGC helps make certain that retirees continue to receive their benefits.

A searchable database for unclaimed funds across 49 states, Washington D.C., and Puerto Rico is available at missingmoney.com . Managed by the National Association of State Treasurers, this website aids in locating various unclaimed assets, including uncashed checks from banks, businesses, and local governments, dormant brokerage accounts, and even the contents of unclaimed safe-deposit boxes. The website also provides direct access to the Hawaii-specific register for residents with assets in the state.

Additionally, Kroger employees can locate U.S. savings bonds or other treasury securities that may have gone unpaid by visiting treasuryhunt.gov . This tool, managed by the U.S. Department of the Treasury, allows individuals to search for unpaid bonds or interest payments by entering their Social Security number, full name, and state. It may be particularly helpful for Kroger employees who may have inherited or forgotten about savings bonds purchased years ago. By entering your full name, state, and Social Security number, you can find out if you are eligible for any unclaimed funds. The federal government is dedicated to reuniting people with their unclaimed financial assets, and this service plays a significant role in that mission.

The Department of Labor's Workers Owed Wages website is another critical resource for those seeking back wages that might have been left unpaid. If you haven’t collected any unpaid wages, you can file a claim within three years.

Lastly, if you have funds trapped in bank or credit union failures, you may be able to retrieve them. The Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) tracks unclaimed deposits from closed banks , and the National Credit Union Administration’s website lists funds left behind by bankrupt credit unions, which can be reclaimed by their rightful owners.

For more detailed instructions on locating and recovering unclaimed assets, visit aarp.org/unclaimed . These resources are invaluable in making certain that all funds, regardless of size, are successfully tracked down.

Learn how to recover forgotten assets like pension plans, unclaimed retirement savings, and dormant bank accounts. Discover where to search for unclaimed savings bonds, misplaced 401ks, and uncashed checks. To track down hidden money you might not even know you have, start with the DOL's recently launched Retirement Savings Lost and Found Database and other platforms like treasuryhunt.gov and missingmoney.com. Don’t miss out on potential retirement savings—uncover your hidden funds and make sure you are saving as much as possible for the future.

Unclaimed retirement savings are much like forgotten treasures—similar to finding valuable artifacts tucked away in an old attic. Lost 401ks, pension plans, uncashed checks, and dormant savings bonds can bolster your financial future, just like rare antiques or mementos discovered in a dusty corner. Just as locating a long-lost family heirloom can bring joy and value, using tools like the Retirement Savings Lost and Found Database or missingmoney.com will help you uncover these assets and make certain every dollar is used effectively for your retirement.

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Sources:

1. U.S. Department of Labor. 'Retirement Savings Lost and Found Database.' U.S. Department of Labor, Employee Benefits Security Administration (EBSA) , 27 Dec. 2024, https://lostandfound.dol.gov/?utm_source=chatgpt.com .

2. Pension Benefit Guaranty Corporation (PBGC). 'Find Unclaimed Retirement Benefits.' Pension Benefit Guaranty Corporation , ongoing updates, https://www.pbgc.gov/wr/find-unclaimed-retirement-benefits?utm_source=chatgpt.com .

3. National Association of Unclaimed Property Administrators (NAUPA). 'MissingMoney.com.' National Association of Unclaimed Property Administrators , ongoing updates, https://missingmoney.com/?utm_source=chatgpt.com .

4. U.S. Department of the Treasury. 'Treasury Hunt.' U.S. Department of the Treasury , ongoing updates, https://treasurydirect.gov/savings-bonds/treasury-hunt/?utm_source=chatgpt.com .

5. AARP. 'Show Me the Money: How to Find Unclaimed Assets.' AARP , May 2025, https://www.aarp.org/money/personal-finance/how-to-find-unclaimed-assets/?utm_source=chatgpt.com .

How does the KROGER CONSOLIDATED RETIREMENT BENEFIT PLAN ensure that employees receive adequate retirement benefits calculated based on their years of service and compensation? Are there specific formulas or formulas that KROGER uses to ensure fair distribution of benefits among its participants, particularly in regards to early retirement adjustments?

The KROGER CONSOLIDATED RETIREMENT BENEFIT PLAN ensures that employees receive adequate retirement benefits based on a formula that takes into account both years of credited service and compensation. The plan, being a defined benefit plan, calculates benefits that are typically paid out monthly upon reaching the normal retirement age, but adjustments can be made for early retirement. This formula guarantees that employees who retire early will see reductions based on the plan’s terms, ensuring a fair distribution across participants(KROGER_2023-10-01_QDRO_…).

In what ways does the cash balance formula mentioned in the KROGER CONSOLIDATED RETIREMENT BENEFIT PLAN impact the retirement planning of employees? How are these benefits expressed in more relatable terms similar to a defined contribution plan, and how might this affect an employee's perception of their retirement savings?

The cash balance formula in the KROGER CONSOLIDATED RETIREMENT BENEFIT PLAN impacts retirement planning by expressing benefits in a manner similar to defined contribution plans. Instead of a traditional annuity calculation, the benefits are often framed as a hypothetical account balance or lump sum, which might make it easier for employees to relate their retirement savings to more familiar terms, thereby influencing how they perceive the growth and adequacy of their retirement savings(KROGER_2023-10-01_QDRO_…).

Can you explain the concept of "shared payment" and "separate interest" as they apply to the KROGER CONSOLIDATED RETIREMENT BENEFIT PLAN? How do these payment structures affect retirees and their alternate payees, and what considerations should participants keep in mind when navigating these options?

In the KROGER CONSOLIDATED RETIREMENT BENEFIT PLAN, "shared payment" refers to a payment structure where the alternate payee receives a portion of the participant’s benefit during the participant's lifetime. In contrast, "separate interest" means that the alternate payee receives a separate benefit, typically over their own lifetime. These structures impact how retirees and their alternate payees manage their retirement income, with shared payments being tied to the participant’s life and separate interests providing independent payments(KROGER_2023-10-01_QDRO_…).

What procedures does KROGER have in place for employees to access or review the applicable Summary Plan Description? How can understanding this document help employees make more informed decisions regarding their retirement benefits and entitlements under the KROGER plan?

KROGER provides procedures for employees to access the Summary Plan Description, typically through HR or digital platforms. Understanding this document is crucial as it outlines the plan’s specific terms, helping employees make more informed decisions about retirement benefits, including when to retire and how to maximize their benefits under the plan(KROGER_2023-10-01_QDRO_…).

With regard to early retirement options, what specific features of the KROGER CONSOLIDATED RETIREMENT BENEFIT PLAN can employees take advantage of? How does the plan's definition of "normal retirement age" influence an employee's decision to retire early, and what potential consequences might this have on their benefits?

The KROGER CONSOLIDATED RETIREMENT BENEFIT PLAN offers early retirement options that include adjustments for those retiring before the plan’s defined "normal retirement age." This early retirement can result in reduced benefits, so employees must carefully consider how retiring early will impact their overall retirement income. The definition of normal retirement age serves as a benchmark, influencing the timing of retirement decisions(KROGER_2023-10-01_QDRO_…).

How does the KROGER CONSOLIDATED RETIREMENT BENEFIT PLAN address potential changes in federal regulations or tax law that may impact retirement plans? In what ways does KROGER communicate these changes to employees, and how can participants stay informed about updates to their retirement benefits?

The KROGER CONSOLIDATED RETIREMENT BENEFIT PLAN incorporates changes in federal regulations or tax laws by updating the plan terms accordingly. KROGER communicates these changes to employees through official channels, such as newsletters or HR communications, ensuring participants are informed and can adjust their retirement planning in line with regulatory changes(KROGER_2023-10-01_QDRO_…).

What are some common misconceptions regarding participation in the KROGER CONSOLIDATED RETIREMENT BENEFIT PLAN that employees might have? How can these misconceptions impact their retirement planning strategies, and what resources does KROGER provide to clarify these issues?

A common misconception regarding participation in the KROGER CONSOLIDATED RETIREMENT BENEFIT PLAN is that it functions similarly to a defined contribution plan, which it does not. This can lead to confusion about benefit accrual and payouts. KROGER provides resources such as plan summaries and HR support to clarify these misunderstandings and help employees better strategize their retirement plans(KROGER_2023-10-01_QDRO_…).

How does the KROGER CONSOLIDATED RETIREMENT BENEFIT PLAN interact with other employer-sponsored retirement plans, specifically concerning offsetting benefits? What implications does this have for employees who may also be participating in defined contribution plans?

The KROGER CONSOLIDATED RETIREMENT BENEFIT PLAN interacts with other employer-sponsored retirement plans by offsetting benefits, particularly with defined contribution plans. This means that benefits from the defined benefit plan may be reduced if the employee is also receiving benefits from a defined contribution plan, impacting the total retirement income(KROGER_2023-10-01_QDRO_…).

What options are available to employees of KROGER regarding the distribution of their retirement benefits upon reaching retirement age? How can employees effectively plan their retirement income to ensure sustainability through their retirement years based on the features of the KROGER plan?

Upon reaching retirement age, KROGER employees have various options for distributing their retirement benefits, including lump sums or annuity payments. Employees should carefully plan their retirement income, considering the sustainability of their benefits through their retirement years. The plan’s features provide flexibility, allowing employees to choose the option that best fits their financial goals(KROGER_2023-10-01_QDRO_…).

How can employees contact KROGER for more information or assistance regarding the KROGER CONSOLIDATED RETIREMENT BENEFIT PLAN? What are the recommended channels for employees seeking guidance on their retirement benefits, and what type of support can they expect from KROGER's human resources team?

Employees seeking more information or assistance regarding the KROGER CONSOLIDATED RETIREMENT BENEFIT PLAN can contact the company through HR or dedicated plan administrators. The recommended channels include direct communication with HR or online resources. Employees can expect detailed support in understanding their benefits and planning for retirement(KROGER_2023-10-01_QDRO_…).

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

Kroger offers both a defined benefit pension plan and a 401(k) retirement savings account plan. The defined benefit plan provides retirement income based on years of service and final average pay. The 401(k) plan allows employees to save for retirement with personal and employer contributions, including a company match. Employees can choose from various investment options within the 401(k) plan to grow their retirement savings.

Operational Changes: Kroger is undergoing a restructuring process that includes closing underperforming stores and cutting administrative costs. Layoffs: The company has announced layoffs affecting about 1,500 employees (Source: CNN). Financial Performance: Despite these changes, Kroger reported a 7% increase in same-store sales for Q2 2023, reflecting strong consumer demand (Source: Kroger).

Kroger offers RSUs that vest over time, providing shares to employees upon vesting. Stock options are also available, allowing employees to purchase shares at a set price, potentially benefiting from stock price increases.

Kroger has made significant updates to its employee healthcare benefits to align with the current economic, investment, tax, and political environment. In 2022, Kroger Health, the healthcare division of The Kroger Co., entered into a direct agreement with Prime Therapeutics to ensure continued access to affordable healthcare services for over 33 million Americans. This agreement, effective January 1, 2023, allowed Kroger's pharmacies to remain in-network for Prime's Medicare Part D members and other commercial, Medicare, and Medicaid customers. This initiative underscores Kroger's commitment to providing comprehensive healthcare services, including administering COVID-19 vaccines, offering in-store antibody tests, and distributing at-home COVID-19 tests, thereby enhancing health access and affordability. In 2023, Kroger was recognized for its commitment to workplace mental health, receiving the Gold Bell Seal for Workplace Mental Health from Mental Health America for the second consecutive year. This certification highlights Kroger's efforts to create a supportive and caring environment for its associates, focusing on mental, physical, and financial well-being. Kroger's wellness programs, mental health services, Employee Assistance Programs (EAP), and paid time off were rigorously evaluated, demonstrating the company's ongoing dedication to employee well-being. These efforts are part of Kroger's broader strategy to ensure a healthy and productive workforce, which is critical in navigating the current economic challenges and maintaining long-term business success.

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For more information you can reach the plan administrator for Kroger at 104 vine street Cincinnati, OH 45202-1100; or by calling them at 513-762-4000.

https://www.thekrogerco.com/documents/pension-plan-2022.pdf - Page 5, https://www.thekrogerco.com/documents/pension-plan-2023.pdf - Page 12, https://www.thekrogerco.com/documents/pension-plan-2024.pdf - Page 15, https://www.thekrogerco.com/documents/401k-plan-2022.pdf - Page 8, https://www.thekrogerco.com/documents/401k-plan-2023.pdf - Page 22, https://www.thekrogerco.com/documents/401k-plan-2024.pdf - Page 28, https://www.thekrogerco.com/documents/rsu-plan-2022.pdf - Page 20, https://www.thekrogerco.com/documents/rsu-plan-2023.pdf - Page 14, https://www.thekrogerco.com/documents/rsu-plan-2024.pdf - Page 17, https://www.thekrogerco.com/documents/healthcare-plan-2022.pdf - Page 23