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Why Franchise Group Employees Can Benefit from a Written Financial Plan

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Healthcare Provider Update: Healthcare Provider for Franchise Group The Franchise Group, a company operating several retail and service brands, typically partners with major health insurance providers to offer healthcare coverage to its employees. While the exact provider may vary, large national insurers such as UnitedHealthcare, Anthem, and Aetna are commonly chosen by companies in similar industries for their comprehensive plan offerings. Potential Healthcare Cost Increases in 2026 As we look ahead to 2026, healthcare costs are anticipated to surge significantly, primarily driven by the expiration of enhanced federal premium subsidies associated with the Affordable Care Act (ACA). Many states are bracing for substantial rate hikes, with some insurers proposing increases of over 60%. The Kaiser Family Foundation highlights that without congressional intervention, nearly 92% of marketplace enrollees could face out-of-pocket premiums climbing by as much as 75%. Combined with rising medical costs, these factors are likely to put considerable financial pressure on consumers and companies alike in the coming year. Click here to learn more

'Franchise Group employees who take the time to create a written retirement plan often move from uncertainty to clarity, using a structured approach to transform savings into a foundation for long-term stability.' – Paul Bergeron, a representative of The Retirement Group, a division of Wealth Enhancement.

'Given the complex retirement decisions Franchise Group employees face, having a written financial plan can provide the structure needed to effectively coordinate income, taxes, and benefits for long-term confidence.' – Tyson Mavar, a representative of The Retirement Group, a division of Wealth Enhancement.

In this article we will discuss:

  1. The importance of having a written financial plan for retirement.

  2. Generational and demographic gaps in retirement planning.

  3. Strategies for managing taxes, risks, and income during retirement.

The Importance of a Written Financial Plan 

One of the most important life changes is retirement, but many Americans enter this phase without a clear plan. A financial plan is much more than just a set of figures; it's a strategy that can help turn savings into steady income, account for possible risks, and establish a framework to payfor both anticipated and unforeseen costs. Even careful savers at Franchise Group run the risk of depleting their funds too soon, paying needless taxes, or taking rash actions that could undermine their long-term stability in the absence of such a strategy.

Yet, despite the critical role of financial planning, research from the Allianz Life 2025 Annual Retirement Study shows that 47% of Americans lack a formal financial plan. 1  Many people regularly make contributions to retirement accounts like 401(k)s and IRAs, so this deficit is not the result of a lack of involvement in savings programs. Instead, it represents a general lack of clarity over how to turn saved money into a practical plan. The poll found that 59% of Americans admit they don't know what else they should be doing outside of making contributions to retirement accounts. 1  This uncertainty applies to Franchise Group workers as well, just when a methodical approach is most needed.

What the Information Shows

The gap between generations.  Forty-two percent of Millennials lack a documented plan. As people age, the problem gets worse; 54% of Baby Boomers and 55% of Generation X say they don't have a written approach. 1  Given that Gen Xers and Boomers are either in or nearing retirement, where the lack of a plan can have serious and immediate repercussions, this is especially concerning and should form a warning for those nearing the end of their careers at Franchise Group.

Racial division.  Different demographic groupings also exhibit planning gaps. Compared to 51% of Black/African American respondents, 41% of Hispanic respondents, and 56% of Asian/Asian American respondents, around 46% of White respondents do not have a documented strategy. 1  These numbers demonstrate the need for more focused financial outreach and education to help address inequalities and offer useful guidance to all.

Additionally, confidence in one's preparedness for retirement is still fragile. Just 45% of Americans say they are aware of how they will turn their retirement assets into income. Furthermore, 53% think that having a retirement account is 'enough.' 1  Many people are ill-prepared for important factors such as tax-efficient withdrawal strategies, steady income streams, and ways to handle inflation or market volatility. This misplaced confidence has clear implications for Franchise Group employees considering their retirement future.

How Written Plans Help

A financial plan offers several benefits that can help strengthen long-term stability:

  • Making money from savings.  A written plan can help retirees lower the risk of outliving their resources by establishing organized withdrawal techniques that balance lifespan and income demands.

  • Risk management.  Inflation, growing medical expenses, and unforeseen market downturns can all be accounted for with holistic planning.

  • Efficiency in taxes.  Over time, coordinating withdrawals across several account types can help mitigate taxes and preserve resources.

  • Confidence and clarity.  A plan gives clarity and specific steps to reduce ambiguity, limit emotional decision-making, and build peace of mind.

These advantages are especially relevant for Franchise Group employees who may have multiple retirement account options and benefits to coordinate.

A Chance for Guidance

Lack of planning is more a sign of a lack of direction than unwillingness. While many people save money, not all understand how to move from sporadic contributions to a long-term financial plan. This underscores the importance of working with financial planners who can provide guidance, assisting investors—including those from Franchise Group—to navigate difficult choices regarding income, taxes, and long-term stability.

A written strategy is more than just reaching a certain financial goal. It involves creating an income route that is flexible enough to adjust to changing life situations. The existence of a written plan frequently makes the difference between doubt and confidence for people starting or already in retirement.

In Conclusion

The information is clear. The majority of Americans are still unsure of how to turn savings into steady income, and over half do not have a formal financial plan. 1  In a time when taxes, inflation, and medical expenses continue to influence financial choices, organized planning is more important than ever. Whether a strategy is committed to writing often makes the difference between long-term stability and ongoing financial concern. Franchise Group retirees can better position themselves to manage risks, coordinate resources, and maintain financial independence during retirement by developing a clear, flexible plan.

In March 2025, the T. Rowe Price Retirement Savings and Spending Study also found that 62.5% of respondents with a formal written plan reported feeling more confident about their financial outlook than those without one. 2  Maintaining and updating a written financial plan on a regular basis can help enhance confidence and reduce financial stress.

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Sources:

1. Allianz Life Insurance Company of North America. ' How Americans feel about retirement in 2025 ,' June 2025.

2. T. Rowe Price, ' Survey reveals the rising importance of financial planning at retirement ,' March 20, 2025.

What retirement savings options does Franchise Group offer to its employees?

Franchise Group offers a 401(k) savings plan to help employees save for retirement.

How can employees at Franchise Group enroll in the 401(k) plan?

Employees at Franchise Group can enroll in the 401(k) plan by completing the enrollment forms provided during orientation or through the employee portal.

Does Franchise Group match employee contributions to the 401(k) plan?

Yes, Franchise Group offers a matching contribution up to a certain percentage of employee contributions to the 401(k) plan.

What is the vesting schedule for the 401(k) match at Franchise Group?

The vesting schedule for the 401(k) match at Franchise Group typically follows a graded vesting schedule over a period of time, which will be detailed in the plan documents.

Are there any fees associated with the Franchise Group 401(k) plan?

Yes, there may be administrative fees associated with the Franchise Group 401(k) plan, which will be disclosed in the plan documents.

Can employees take loans against their 401(k) balance at Franchise Group?

Yes, Franchise Group allows employees to take loans against their 401(k) balance, subject to the plan's terms and conditions.

What investment options are available in the Franchise Group 401(k) plan?

The Franchise Group 401(k) plan offers a variety of investment options, including mutual funds, target-date funds, and company stock.

How often can employees change their contribution amounts to the Franchise Group 401(k) plan?

Employees at Franchise Group can change their contribution amounts to the 401(k) plan typically on a quarterly basis or as specified in the plan documents.

What is the minimum contribution percentage for the Franchise Group 401(k) plan?

The minimum contribution percentage for the Franchise Group 401(k) plan is usually set at 1% of the employee's salary, but employees are encouraged to contribute more if possible.

Can employees at Franchise Group access their 401(k) funds before retirement?

Employees at Franchise Group may access their 401(k) funds before retirement under certain circumstances, such as financial hardship or termination of employment.

With the current political climate we are in it is important to keep up with current news and remain knowledgeable about your benefits.
Franchise Group, like many companies, offers retirement plans to its employees, including both pension and 401(k) plans. As of 2022, 2023, and continuing into 2024, Franchise Group aligns its retirement benefits with federal legislation, including the SECURE Act and SECURE 2.0 enhancements​ (RSM US)​ (National Law Review). For its 401(k) plan, employees are automatically enrolled at a contribution rate of 3% of their salary, which escalates annually up to 10%, per changes beginning in 2024. Employees have the option to opt out, but this automatic enrollment is designed to help employees build savings consistently. Franchise Group’s 401(k) plan also offers employer matching contributions​ (CLA). Part-time employees become eligible to participate after two consecutive years of at least 500 hours of service​
Restructuring and Layoffs: In early 2023, Franchise Group announced a significant restructuring plan aimed at streamlining operations and improving efficiency. This move included layoffs affecting approximately 10% of the workforce across various departments. The restructuring was driven by a need to adapt to changing market conditions and enhance financial performance. Company Benefit Changes: As part of the restructuring, Franchise Group also revised its employee benefits package. Changes included reduced health insurance coverage options and modifications to retirement plan contributions. These adjustments were made to better align with the company's new strategic goals and financial outlook.
Franchise Group provides stock options as part of its employee compensation package. These options allow employees to purchase company stock at a set price within a specific timeframe. Franchise Group typically grants stock options to senior management and key employees, based on performance and tenure. Franchise Group options are generally vested over several years, with certain performance metrics required for full vesting. Franchise Group RSUs (2022-2024): Franchise Group also offers Restricted Stock Units (RSUs) to its employees. RSUs are granted to employees but are subject to vesting schedules, which are usually tied to continued employment. Franchise Group grants RSUs to a broader range of employees compared to stock options, including mid-level managers and high performers.
Traditional Group Health Insurance Plans: Franchise Group offers traditional group health insurance plans where the company pays a fixed premium to the insurance carrier. These premiums cover a range of services, including medical, dental, and vision. The insurance carrier assumes the financial risk for claims, offering protection to the company against large, unexpected medical expenses. These plans, however, can become expensive and often require high participation rates from employees​ (StretchDollar). Health Savings Accounts (HSAs): Employees have access to HSAs, which allow them to set aside pre-tax dollars for medical expenses. These accounts are beneficial for both employees and employers, offering flexibility and tax advantages. However, HSAs are only available to employees who have high-deductible health plans (HDHPs), which could limit participation​ (StretchDollar). Individual Coverage Health Reimbursement Arrangement (ICHRA): Franchise Group also offers an ICHRA, which is a newer health benefit option. This allows employers to provide pre-tax funds that employees can use to purchase their own health insurance. This option is flexible and gives employees the freedom to select a plan that fits their needs. It is particularly useful for franchises with smaller workforces or employees located in various regions​ (StretchDollar)​ (Aflac). Compliance with New Regulations: Franchise Group ensures that their health plans comply with the latest federal requirements, including those related to mental health parity and transparency in pricing. The transparency rules require the disclosure of in-network rates, out-of-network allowances, and prescription drug costs, while the mental health parity rules enforce comparative analysis for mental health and substance use disorder treatments​ (Aflac). Recent Developments: The company has also been updating their healthcare offerings to align with new federal mandates regarding surprise billing, transparency in coverage, and parity in mental health services. These changes are designed to enhance employee protections, streamline claims, and provide clarity in pricing, which benefits employees seeking affordable care options​
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