Healthcare Provider Update: Offers medical plans through Blue Cross Blue Shield of Texas (BCBSTX), with options for PPO and HDHP plans, plus dental (BCBSTX), vision (VSP), and virtual care via MDLIVE 1. As ACA premiums rise and subsidies expire, HF Sinclairs employer-sponsored plans with preventive care and wellness incentives may help employees avoid the steep out-of-pocket costs expected in the marketplace. Click here to learn more
'Many HF Sinclair employees overlook how everyday spending habits influence their long-term goals, making it important to understand how consistent financial discipline in small decisions can be just as impactful as major investment choices when preparing for retirement.'— Wesley Boudreaux, a representative of The Retirement Group, a division of Wealth Enhancement.
'HF Sinclair employees can strengthen their retirement outlook by recognizing that sustainable wealth often grows from steady, mindful habits rather than big financial moves,' — Patrick Ray, a representative of The Retirement Group, a division of Wealth Enhancement.
In this article, we will discuss:
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The hidden cost of convenience and its impact on wealth.
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How small savings can compound over time to strengthen retirement readiness.
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Practical money habits that support fiscal discipline across generations.
Maintaining Your Standard of Living: Small Habits That Build Long-Term Wealth
by Brent Wolf, CPA, Wealth Enhancement
I recently spoke with a client who had carefully built significant savings through years of consistent fiscal discipline. When his children remarked that “baby boomers had it easy,” he simply replied, “We just learned to live within our means.” That mindset remains just as valuable today for HF Sinclair employees preparing for retirement.
The Hidden Cost of Convenience
Modern conveniences can quietly erode long-term wealth. Services like Uber Eats, DoorDash, and Grubhub can make life easier, but research shows that delivery orders can cost between 80% and 105% more than picking up the same meal yourself. 1 These additional costs often stem from:
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- Restaurants increasing menu prices by 20–30% for delivery app orders 2
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- Added platform service and delivery fees
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- Extra taxes layered into the total
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- Tips on top of already inflated costs
Essentially, you’re paying more for someone else to handle the task—not for a better product.
How Small Savings Compound Over Time
Choosing to cook at home or pick up meals rather than relying on delivery can save roughly $250 per week, or about $13,000 per year. 3 Over two decades, that amounts to $260,000 in cash savings. If those savings were invested and grew at a 10% annual rate, they could potentially reach $687,300. 4 That's a lot of savings for an incremental change, enough to substantially influence retirement readiness for many HF Sinclair employees.
Building Better Money Habits
Reducing unnecessary spending doesn’t mean giving up what you enjoy. Consider these practical steps:
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- Call restaurants directly and pick up your meal instead of ordering through apps
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- Prepare more meals at home
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- Walk to nearby restaurants instead of paying for delivery
Long-term fiscal strength often results from steady, thoughtful habits that align with broader goals—something HF Sinclair employees can integrate into their daily routines.
Taking the Next Step
Growth rarely comes from one major decision; it’s built through consistent, intentional behaviors. By rethinking spending habits and redirecting small savings, you can make meaningful progress toward long-term retirement goals.
The Retirement Group can help HF Sinclair employees understand how everyday savings may support their broader strategy. To discuss how these principles can fit into your retirement planning, call (800) 900-5867 to speak with a financial professional today.
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- Medicare Open Enrollment for Corporate Employees: Cost Changes in 2024!
- Stages of Retirement for Corporate Employees
- 7 Things to Consider Before Leaving Your Company
- How Are Workers Impacted by Inflation & Rising Interest Rates?
- Lump-Sum vs Annuity and Rising Interest Rates
- Internal Revenue Code Section 409A (Governing Nonqualified Deferred Compensation Plans)
- Corporate Employees: Do NOT Believe These 6 Retirement Myths!
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Sources:
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1. Bitter, Alex. “You Might Be Paying Twice as Much by Ordering Take-out Food on DoorDash or Postmates, New Study Says.” Business Insider , 29 Jan. 2024, www.businessinsider.com/doordash-postmates-food-delivery-costs-twice-as-much-as-pickup-2024-1 .
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2. iOrders. ' Why Food Costs More on Uber Eats Than In-Restaurant .' April 30, 2025.
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3. Top Nutrition Coaching. ' The Cost of Eating Out Versus Eating In by State ,' by Nicolette Star Maggiolo. 2024.
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4. U.S. Securities and Exchance Commission. ' Compound Interest Calculator .'
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Other Resources:
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1. U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. “Consumer Price Index – September 2025.” U.S. Dept. of Labor, 24 Oct. 2025, www.bls.gov/news.release/pdf/cpi.pdf .
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2. U.S. Department of Agriculture, Economic Research Service. Food Price Outlook: Summary Findings. 25 Sept. 2025, ers.usda.gov/data-products/food-price-outlook/summary-findings .
What is the 401(k) plan offered by HF Sinclair?
The 401(k) plan at HF Sinclair is a retirement savings plan that allows employees to save a portion of their paycheck before taxes are deducted.
How can I enroll in HF Sinclair's 401(k) plan?
Employees can enroll in HF Sinclair's 401(k) plan by completing the enrollment process through the company's benefits portal or by contacting the HR department for assistance.
Does HF Sinclair match employee contributions to the 401(k) plan?
Yes, HF Sinclair offers a matching contribution to the 401(k) plan, which helps employees boost their retirement savings.
What is the maximum contribution limit for HF Sinclair's 401(k) plan?
The maximum contribution limit for HF Sinclair's 401(k) plan is set according to IRS guidelines, which may change annually. Employees should check the latest limits for the current year.
When can I start contributing to HF Sinclair's 401(k) plan?
Employees at HF Sinclair can start contributing to the 401(k) plan after completing their eligibility period, which is typically outlined in the benefits documentation.
What investment options are available in HF Sinclair's 401(k) plan?
HF Sinclair's 401(k) plan offers a variety of investment options, including mutual funds, stocks, and bonds, allowing employees to choose based on their risk tolerance and retirement goals.
Can I take a loan against my 401(k) at HF Sinclair?
Yes, HF Sinclair allows employees to take loans against their 401(k) savings, subject to certain conditions and limits as outlined in the plan documents.
What happens to my 401(k) if I leave HF Sinclair?
If an employee leaves HF Sinclair, they have several options for their 401(k), including rolling it over to a new employer's plan, transferring it to an IRA, or cashing it out (with potential penalties).
How often can I change my contribution amount to HF Sinclair's 401(k) plan?
Employees can typically change their contribution amount to HF Sinclair's 401(k) plan during open enrollment periods or at any time as permitted by the plan rules.
Is there a vesting schedule for HF Sinclair's 401(k) matching contributions?
Yes, HF Sinclair has a vesting schedule for its matching contributions, meaning employees must work for a certain period before they fully own the matched funds.



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