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KBR Employees Confront the Fear of Running Out of Money in Retirement

Healthcare Provider Update: Healthcare Provider for KBR KBR, a company known for its engineering and construction services, provides health insurance through its partnerships with major health insurers. As of now, KBR employees have access to healthcare coverage options primarily through UnitedHealthcare, which is one of the largest health insurers in the United States. This ensures that employees can receive comprehensive health services, including preventive care and specialty treatments. Potential Healthcare Cost Increases in 2026 In 2026, healthcare costs are projected to surge significantly, exacerbated by a challenging blend of factors. Many states are staring down potential increases in health insurance premiums beyond 60%, particularly influenced by the expiration of enhanced federal premium subsidies that could cause out-of-pocket costs to skyrocket by over 75% for most ACA marketplace enrollees. Coupled with rising medical expenses driven by inflation, the anticipated premium hikes reflect a perfect storm for consumers, increasing the financial burden on both individuals and families during a critical period. Insurers report significant revenue growth but also face mounting pressures that may further distress access to affordable healthcare coverage. Click here to learn more

'To allay long-term financial concerns, KBR employees may benefit from a comprehensive retirement strategy that addresses inflation, health care costs, and tax planning.' – Michael Corgiat, a representative of The Retirement Group, a division of Wealth Enhancement.

'Proactive retirement planning—especially around inflation, health care, and shifting tax policies—can help KBR employees gain clarity and reduce uncertainty in the years leading up to retirement.' – Brent Wolf, a representative of The Retirement Group, a division of Wealth Enhancement.

In this article we will discuss:

Key causes of retirement anxiety, including inflation, health care, and taxes.
Generational differences in money concerns and readiness.
The value of broad retirement planning approaches.

Retirement Anxiety is On The Rise

Employees across industries, including those at KBR, have long worried about how they will fund retirement. These concerns have grown considerably in today’s economy. Nearly two out of three Americans (64%) said they worry more about outliving their resources than they do about dying, according to the Allianz Center for the Future of Retirement’s 2025 Annual Retirement Study. ¹

Main Causes of Retirement-Related Worry

The Allianz study lists several key triggers of these fears. Regarding long-term planning, 54% of respondents said inflation was their top worry. Increases in health care costs, housing, and food prices are still undermining people’s purchasing power.

Concerns around Social Security’s future and tax burdens are also high. 43% said they feared Social Security might not offer adequate support. And another 43% named high taxes as a major issue.

Generational Gaps in Money Stress

Gen X—often balancing care for both kids and aging parents—report the highest worry: 70% versus 66% of millennials and 61% of boomers. Among corporate workers, including those at KBR, this dynamic underlines how family obligations can magnify retirement concerns.

The Gap Between Worry and Action

The survey shows a gap between concern and conversation: just 23% of respondents have talked about outliving their assets with a retirement specialist, down from 28% in 2024. ² That said, Americans are considering several strategies to allay these fears, ranking the following approaches as most helpful:

41% said cutting current spending to funnel more toward retirement 
44% said increasing retirement contributions 
39% said postponing retirement
While increasing contributions to retirement accounts could help address these concerns, barriers remain: daily necessities (63%), credit card debt (40%), mortgage or rent (35%) were top reasons people weren’t contributing more.

The Emotional Side of Retirement Anxiety

Retirement fears influence not just finances, but lifestyle, career choices, and family planning. Worries about independence, dignity, and quality of life often accompany fear of running short on funds.

Health care need are often underestimated too, complicating the equation. Medicare covers many basic services, but long‑term care, home assistance, and uncovered treatments can add large bills—adding uncertainty even for high‑income employees.

Broader Retirement Planning Matters

The Allianz findings emphasize planning well beyond just saving. With people living 25 to 30 years post‑work, a solid planning mindset is critical. As Kelly LaVigne, VP at Allianz Life, noted, “Americans areliving longer… your money needs to go farther. A good plan considers 25 to 30 years of retirement, not just the first ten.” ²

Key components often include:

Income strategies: setting up regular monthly disbursements from assets
Tax planning: reducing tax burdens on withdrawals
Health care planning: factoring in Medicare gaps and long‑term care
Inflation alignment: keeping income responsive to cost increases

Combined, these strategies can help build resilience, confidence, and preparedness even in uncertain times.

In Conclusion

The 2025 Allianz Retirement Study makes it clear: a majority of Americans—and KBR employees among them—see the threat of running out of money as more frightening than death. Rising inflation, health care spending, and uncertainty around Social Security are central drivers. Fewer are taking direct action through planning conversations or boosted contributions.

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Yet there is opportunity. The IRS now permits catch‑up 401(k) contributions of up to $11,250 for those aged 60–63 in 2025—above the standard limit. For many, this is a practical way to fortify resources in those final working years.

A Final Thought

Think of retirement like a long sea voyage. Death may be the storm ahead, but empty savings are the leak that can sink the ship first. According to the Allianz study, 64% of Americans fear that leak more than the storm. For KBR employees, the goal is to build a well-structured plan—with consistent income, planning for health costs, and tax awareness—that can keep the vessel afloat for the long haul.

Sources:

1. Allianz Life Insurance Company of North America, ' How Americans feel about retirement in 2025 ,' by the Allianz Center for the Future of Retirement ^TM , June 2025.

2. businesswire, ' Americans Are More Worried About Running Out of Money Than Death ,' April 22, 2025.

What is KBR's 401(k) plan?

KBR's 401(k) plan is a retirement savings plan that allows employees to save a portion of their salary on a tax-deferred basis.

How does KBR match employee contributions to the 401(k) plan?

KBR offers a matching contribution to the 401(k) plan, typically matching a percentage of the employee's contributions up to a certain limit.

When can employees at KBR start contributing to the 401(k) plan?

Employees at KBR can start contributing to the 401(k) plan after completing their initial eligibility period, which is usually outlined in the employee handbook.

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

KBR's 401(k) plan offers a variety of investment options, including mutual funds, target-date funds, and other investment vehicles to help employees diversify their portfolios.

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

Yes, KBR allows employees to take loans against their 401(k) savings, subject to certain conditions and limits set by the plan.

What happens to my KBR 401(k) if I leave the company?

If you leave KBR, you can choose to roll over your 401(k) balance to another retirement account, cash out your balance, or leave it in the KBR plan if allowed.

Is there a vesting schedule for KBR's 401(k) matching contributions?

Yes, KBR has a vesting schedule for matching contributions, meaning employees must work for a certain period to fully own the matched funds.

How can KBR employees change their contribution percentage to the 401(k) plan?

KBR employees can change their contribution percentage by accessing their account online or by contacting the HR department for assistance.

Does KBR provide educational resources for employees regarding their 401(k) plan?

Yes, KBR provides educational resources and workshops to help employees understand their 401(k) options and make informed investment decisions.

Are there any fees associated with KBR's 401(k) plan?

Yes, KBR's 401(k) plan may have administrative fees and investment-related fees, which are disclosed in the plan documents.

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

KBR Employee Pension Plan Name of the Pension Plan: KBR Pension Plan Pension Formula: KBR provides a defined benefit pension plan based on a formula that includes years of service and average salary. Years of Service and Age Qualification: Generally, employees need to have a minimum of 5 years of service and must be at least 55 years old to qualify for full benefits. Name of the 401(k) Plan: KBR 401(k) Savings Plan Eligibility: Employees are eligible to participate in the KBR 401(k) Savings Plan after completing 30 days of service

Restructuring and Layoffs: In 2023, KBR announced a significant restructuring plan aimed at streamlining its operations. This included a reduction in workforce, particularly targeting roles in administrative and support functions. The company cited the need to enhance operational efficiency and adapt to shifting market demands. This move is significant in the current economic environment as companies are focusing on optimizing resources amid economic uncertainty and evolving industry landscapes.

Stock Options: KBR offered stock options to senior executives and high-performing employees, primarily using the acronym SOP (Stock Option Plan). The SOP provided an opportunity for employees to purchase KBR stock at a fixed price, usually with a vesting period of four years. Source: SEC Form 10-K, Page 34 RSUs: KBR granted RSUs to eligible employees, typically using the acronym RSU (Restricted Stock Units). These RSUs vested over a period of three years, rewarding long-term commitment. Source: Yahoo Finance, KBR Annual Report, Page 20

Health Benefits: KBR provides a comprehensive benefits package including medical, dental, and vision coverage. They offer various plans including PPOs, HSAs, and FSAs. Acronyms and Terms: Common terms include PPO (Preferred Provider Organization), HSA (Health Savings Account), FSA (Flexible Spending Account), EAP (Employee Assistance Program), and EPO (Exclusive Provider Organization).

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For more information you can reach the plan administrator for KBR at , ; or by calling them at .

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