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

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Healthcare Provider Update: Qualcomm Healthcare Provider and Potential Cost Increases in 2026 Qualcomm offers healthcare coverage primarily through UnitedHealthcare. As we look ahead to 2026, a significant rise in healthcare costs is anticipated, with many ACA marketplace enrollees expected to face dramatic premium increases. Reports indicate that without congressional action to extend enhanced federal premium subsidies, individuals could see their out-of-pocket premiums soar by over 75%, with some states witnessing hikes as high as 66%. Insurers are citing a combination of higher medical costs and the potential expiration of subsidies as driving factors behind these unprecedented rate increases. This situation necessitates proactive measures for consumers to mitigate the financial impact as they prepare for the upcoming year. Click here to learn more

'To allay long-term financial concerns, Qualcomm 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 Qualcomm 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:

  1. Key causes of retirement anxiety, including inflation, health care, and taxes.

  2. Generational differences in money concerns and readiness.

  3. The value of broad retirement planning approaches.

Retirement Anxiety is On The Rise

Employees across industries, including those at Qualcomm, 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 Qualcomm, 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 Qualcomm 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 Qualcomm 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 Qualcomm's 401(k) Savings Plan?

Qualcomm's 401(k) Savings Plan is a retirement savings plan that allows employees to save for retirement through pre-tax contributions, with the option for after-tax contributions as well.

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

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

When can Qualcomm employees enroll in the 401(k) Savings Plan?

Qualcomm employees can enroll in the 401(k) Savings Plan during their initial onboarding period or during the annual open enrollment period.

What investment options are available in Qualcomm's 401(k) Savings Plan?

Qualcomm's 401(k) Savings Plan provides a variety of investment options, including mutual funds, target-date funds, and company stock.

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

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

What happens to Qualcomm employees' 401(k) savings if they leave the company?

If Qualcomm employees leave the company, they have several options for their 401(k) savings, including rolling over the balance to another retirement account or cashing out.

Does Qualcomm offer financial counseling for employees regarding their 401(k) plan?

Yes, Qualcomm provides access to financial counseling services to help employees make informed decisions about their 401(k) savings and investments.

Are there any fees associated with Qualcomm's 401(k) Savings Plan?

Qualcomm's 401(k) Savings Plan may have certain administrative fees, which are disclosed in the plan documents provided to employees.

How can Qualcomm employees change their 401(k) contribution amount?

Qualcomm employees can change their 401(k) contribution amount by accessing the employee benefits portal or contacting the HR department for assistance.

Is there a vesting schedule for Qualcomm's matching contributions in the 401(k) plan?

Yes, Qualcomm has a vesting schedule for its matching contributions, meaning employees must work for the company for a certain period before they fully own those contributions.

With the current political climate we are in it is important to keep up with current news and remain knowledgeable about your benefits.
Qualcomm provides a defined contribution 401(k) plan with company matching contributions. Employees can contribute pre-tax or Roth (after-tax) dollars, and Qualcomm matches 50% of the first 8% of eligible compensation. The plan includes various investment options such as target-date funds, mutual funds, and a self-directed brokerage account. Qualcomm also offers an Employee Stock Purchase Plan (ESPP) with a discount on company stock. Financial planning resources and tools are available to help employees manage their retirement savings.
Restructuring and Layoffs: Qualcomm announced layoffs of 1,258 employees in California in 2023 as part of a broader restructuring effort. The company faced revenue declines and aimed to cut operational costs. Company Benefit Changes: Severance packages and outplacement assistance were provided to affected employees. Qualcomm is focusing on its automotive and AI sectors for growth. (Sources: The Register, SiliconANGLE)
Qualcomm offers stock options (SOs) and Restricted Stock Units (RSUs). SOs allow employees to purchase stock at a set price after vesting. RSUs vest over three to four years. In 2022, Qualcomm emphasized performance-based RSUs. In 2023, Qualcomm maintained its strategy with performance metrics. By 2024, Qualcomm expanded RSU programs. Executives, management, and broader employees are eligible. [Source: Qualcomm Annual Report 2022, p. 48; Qualcomm Q4 2023 Report, p. 20; Qualcomm Q2 2024 Report, p. 15]
Qualcomm offers an extensive and competitive healthcare benefits package to support the diverse needs of its employees. In 2023, Qualcomm continued to provide a variety of health plan options, including Health Maintenance Organization (HMO) and Preferred Provider Organization (PPO) plans. These plans cover a wide range of medical services, from preventive care to major medical expenses, ensuring comprehensive coverage for employees and their families. Qualcomm also offers dental, vision, and mental health benefits, alongside wellness programs aimed at promoting overall well-being. Notably, employees can benefit from Qualcomm’s contributions to Health Savings Accounts (HSAs) and Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs), which help manage out-of-pocket healthcare costs effectively. For 2024, Qualcomm has introduced several enhancements to its benefits offerings. The company continues to focus on holistic well-being by providing support for family-building, such as adoption assistance and fertility benefits. Additionally, Qualcomm’s benefits include extensive mental health resources and access to virtual healthcare services, which are particularly beneficial in the current economic and political climate where healthcare affordability and accessibility are significant concerns. By continually updating its healthcare benefits, Qualcomm ensures that its employees are well-supported, fostering a healthy and productive work environment.
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For more information you can reach the plan administrator for Qualcomm at , ; or by calling them at .

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

*Please see disclaimer for more information

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