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These Countries Are Safer for Retirees Than the U.S. – What Intuit Employees Need to Know

'Intuit employees planning their retirement should consider the stability and peace of their chosen destination, as a tranquil environment not only enhances well-being but can also offer financial advantages, such as tax exemptions, making for a truly rewarding retirement experience.' – Michael Corgiat, a representative of The Retirement Group, a division of Wealth Enhancement.

'Intuit employees looking to retire abroad should prioritize destinations that combine peace, low cost of living, and favorable tax incentives, as these factors contribute to a more relaxed and financially efficient retirement.' – Brent Wolf, a representative of The Retirement Group, a division of Wealth Enhancement.

In this article, we will discuss:

The most peaceful countries for retirees in 2025, including Portugal, Malaysia, and Costa Rica.
Key factors, such as the Global Peace Index and Global Retirement Index, influencing retirement destinations.
The lifestyle and financial benefits of retiring in these peaceful countries, specifically for Intuit employees.

Retirement should be a time of comfort, leisure, and, most importantly, well-being. After years of hard work at Intuit, the freedom to relax in a calm and tranquil setting becomes essential. According to a recent International Living study, the most peaceful countries for retirees in 2025 were identified using data from the Global Peace Index and the Global Retirement Index. This list features countries like Portugal, Malaysia, and Costa Rica, all renowned for their low crime rates and peaceful environments, offering retirees an opportunity to live with less stress.

The research was compiled by International Living's team using their annual Global Retirement Index, which rates countries based on factors like health care, cost of living, infrastructure, and overall quality of life for seniors. The inclusion of the Global Peace Index, which measures political stability and crime rates, lends further depth to this list. These countries are ideal for those looking for a calm and serene retirement abroad, as they score highly on both indexes, making them particularly relevant for Intuit employees considering life after retirement.

Why These Nations Stand Out

The countries highlighted in International Living's 2025 list not only provide a peaceful and stable environment but also offer economic benefits such as affordable health care and low living costs. Portugal, for instance, consistently ranks highly for its tranquility and low crime rate. With its welcoming culture and excellent infrastructure, Portugal is an attractive option for those seeking a slower pace of life without sacrificing comfort. It ranks 7th on the Global Peace Index and 2nd on the Global Retirement Index, making it a top choice for retirees, including Intuit employees.

One retiree interviewed by International Living, who has lived in Portugal for over seven years, shares that the country offers a 'sense of calm that wraps around you like a warm blanket—steady, comforting, and always present.' With its peaceful environment and high standard of living, Portugal may provide an ideal retreat for retirees, including Intuit employees looking to unwind after years of hard work.

Malaysia, ranked 7th on the Global Retirement Index and 10th on the Global Peace Index, is another top destination. Known for its blend of modernity and tradition, Malaysia is a peaceful, cosmopolitan country that boasts low crime rates and a laid-back lifestyle. Cities like Penang and Langkawi are especially popular with expatriates. An expat interviewed by International Living, a 16-year resident of Malaysia, emphasizes that the country’s cultural respect and harmonious cohabitation are key to its tranquility—ideal for those from Intuit looking for a calm place to retire.

Another favorite among retirees is Costa Rica, which ranks 3rd on the Global Retirement Index. Despite its lower ranking on the Global Peace Index (38th), Costa Rica is known for its natural beauty, stable democracy, and affordable health care. 'I'm grateful that my kids have grown up on the beach, surrounded by nature's playground,' says an International Living interviewee, who has lived in Costa Rica since 2013. Costa Rica offers retirees a lifestyle that is harmonious with nature, making it an appealing choice for those from Intuit looking for a peaceful retirement.

Other Noteworthy Retirement Locations

In addition to Portugal, Malaysia, and Costa Rica, several other countries offer peaceful and tranquil retirement options. Ireland, ranked 2nd on the Global Peace Index and 15th on the Global Retirement Index, is another excellent option. With its stable political climate, low crime rate, and high-quality health care, Ireland provides a peaceful and enjoyable lifestyle for retirees, including those from Intuit, who are seeking relaxation in retirement.

Vietnam, ranked 16th on the Global Retirement Index and 41st on the Global Peace Index, is also gaining popularity among retirees. With its vibrant culture, affordable living, and stunning landscapes, Vietnam offers a cost-effective and tranquil retirement option for those, including Intuit employees, looking to settle in Southeast Asia.

Uruguay, often overlooked, ranks 14th on the Global Retirement Index and 52nd on the Global Peace Index. Known for its low crime rates and political stability, Uruguay provides retirees with a peaceful lifestyle and a friendly, welcoming community. With easy access to both the beach and countryside, Uruguay offers a relaxed and affordable way of life—perfect for those from Intuit seeking a laid-back retirement.

Retirement Planning and Global Peace Index

When considering potential retirement destinations, the Global Peace Index is an important factor. In 2024, the United States ranked 132nd on the Global Peace Index, which is much lower than many of the countries listed by International Living. For Intuit employees seeking peace of mind, it's important to consider not only the cost of living but also the stability and tranquility of the country.

For those planning to retire abroad, the level of stability should be a key consideration. Retirees who settle in countries with high Global Peace Index scores are more likely to feel at ease, allowing them to enjoy their retirement without the concerns of living in an unstable region. Whether it’s the peaceful streets of Portugal, the cultural harmony of Malaysia, or the natural beauty of Costa Rica, these countries offer retirees, including those from Intuit, the ideal setting for a worry-free life.

In Conclusion

Retirement is a time to enjoy the fruits of years of hard work and planning, and choosing the right location is essential for a fulfilling future. According to International Living, the most peaceful retirement locations offer a blend of affordability, stability, and tranquility, making them perfect for those seeking a calm and enjoyable lifestyle. By considering both the Global Retirement Index and the Global Peace Index, Intuit employees can make informed decisions about where to spend their golden years, helping them enjoy a high quality of life and stability.

Many of the countries on this list, including Portugal and Malaysia, also provide retirees with significant financial advantages. Portugal, for example, offers a tax structure for non-habitual residents that allows retirees to enjoy tax exemptions on certain types of income for up to ten years. Malaysia also offers tax breaks, including exemptions on foreign pension income. These tax benefits can help reduce the overall cost of retirement abroad, which may be particularly appealing for Intuit employees looking to stretch their retirement savings.

For Intuit employees planning their retirement, exploring these countries may provide the perfect opportunity to enjoy a tranquil and affordable retirement. Consider retiring in a place that offers both financial incentives and a calm, tranquil environment where you can truly unwind.

Selecting the right retirement destination is like choosing a second home. The United States, while offering many benefits, can be like living in a bustling city where the constant activity may detract from the tranquility you desire. Countries like Portugal, Malaysia, and Costa Rica offer a quieter, more peaceful environment—much like a relaxing retreat—where you can enjoy the calm and serenity of retirement, making them the perfect destination for Intuit employees seeking a less stressful future.

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Sources:

1. International Living Editorial Team. 'The 2025 Annual Global Retirement Index.' International Living , Apr. 2025, https://internationalliving.com/the-best-places-to-retire/?utm_source=chatgpt.com .

2. Institute for Economics & Peace. 'Global Peace Index 2024.' Vision of Humanity , June 2024, https://www.economicsandpeace.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/GPI-2024-web.pdf?utm_source=chatgpt.com .

3. Travel + Leisure Editorial Team. 'These Countries Were Just Named Safer for Retirees Than the U.S.' Travel + Leisure , May 2025, https://www.travelandleisure.com/countries-safer-for-retirement-than-usa-11739864?utm_source=chatgpt.com .

4. Kiplinger Editorial Team. 'Retire in Costa Rica for Expat Heaven.' Kiplinger , May 2025, https://www.kiplinger.com/retirement/happy-retirement/retire-in-costa-rica-for-expat-heaven?utm_source=chatgpt.com .

5. SeniorLiving.org Editorial Team. 'Best Places to Retire for Seniors in 2025.' SeniorLiving.org , Mar. 2025, https://www.seniorliving.org/retirement/best-places/?utm_source=chatgpt.com .

What type of retirement savings plan does Intuit offer to its employees?

Intuit offers a 401(k) retirement savings plan to its employees.

Does Intuit provide a company match for its 401(k) contributions?

Yes, Intuit offers a company match for employee contributions to the 401(k) plan, subject to certain limits.

How can Intuit employees enroll in the 401(k) plan?

Intuit employees can enroll in the 401(k) plan through the company’s HR portal or by contacting the HR department for assistance.

What is the eligibility requirement for Intuit employees to participate in the 401(k) plan?

Most Intuit employees are eligible to participate in the 401(k) plan after completing a specified period of employment, typically within the first year.

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

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

What investment options are available in Intuit's 401(k) plan?

Intuit's 401(k) plan offers a variety of investment options, including mutual funds, target-date funds, and company stock.

How often can Intuit employees change their 401(k) contribution amounts?

Intuit employees can change their 401(k) contribution amounts at any time, subject to the plan's guidelines.

Does Intuit provide financial education resources for employees regarding their 401(k) plans?

Yes, Intuit provides financial education resources and tools to help employees make informed decisions about their 401(k) savings.

What happens to my 401(k) savings if I leave Intuit?

If you leave Intuit, you can choose to roll over your 401(k) savings into another qualified retirement plan, cash out, or leave the funds in the Intuit plan, depending on the plan's rules.

Is there a vesting schedule for Intuit's 401(k) company match?

Yes, Intuit has a vesting schedule for the company match, which means employees must work for a certain period to fully own the matched funds.

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

Pension Plan Terminology: Defined Contribution Plan: A retirement plan where the employee and/or employer contribute to the employee's account, but the final benefit depends on investment performance. Vesting: The process by which an employee earns the right to benefits from an employer-provided plan. 401(k) Plan Terminology: Match Contribution: Employer contributions that match employee contributions up to a certain percentage. Automatic Enrollment: A feature that automatically enrolls employees into the 401(k) plan upon meeting eligibility criteria.

In July 2024, Intuit announced the layoff of 1,800 employees, roughly 10% of its workforce, as part of a larger restructuring effort aimed at focusing on artificial intelligence (AI) and automation. This restructuring is being driven by the company's strategy to shift toward AI-driven solutions, such as its AI-powered financial assistant, Intuit Assist. As part of this strategy, Intuit plans to rehire in new AI-focused and customer-facing roles, with a goal of boosting innovation and growth in areas like data, fintech, and mid-market solutions. In its Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) filings, Intuit stated that this transition would come with an estimated $260 million in layoff-related costs, including severance and employee benefits, and further investments into AI and data-driven platforms.

Intuit offers its employees stock options and Restricted Stock Units (RSUs) as part of their compensation packages. Stock options give employees the right to purchase Intuit shares at a predetermined price, while RSUs are a promise to grant shares upon meeting vesting requirements. For example, RSUs vest over time or after performance milestones, with taxes withheld from the vested shares before employees can access the remaining stock. Both stock options and RSUs are considered ordinary income once vested and are reported on W-2 forms (Intuit Benefits) (TurboTax). In 2022, 2023, and 2024, Intuit provided RSUs with vesting schedules based on years of service and stock performance. Typically, a portion of the shares is withheld to cover taxes upon vesting, and the remaining shares are transferred to the employee's account. Employees can then decide whether to hold or sell the shares. RSUs are commonly awarded to attract and retain talent and are available to full-time employees, with executives often receiving higher allocations

Medical Coverage: Intuit provides several medical plans depending on the employee's location, such as the Cigna Choice Fund with Health Savings Account (HSA), UnitedHealthcare (UHC) Network Plan, Cigna Managed Network Plan (EPO), and Kaiser Permanente (for employees in California and Georgia). These plans include broad coverage for services like preventive care, family planning, and physical therapy (Intuit Benefits) (Intuit Benefits). Health Savings Account (HSA): Employees enrolled in the Cigna Choice Fund with HSA plan can contribute tax-free money to cover medical expenses. In 2023, the IRS limit was $3,850 for individual coverage and $7,750 for family coverage, increasing to $4,150 for individuals and $8,300 for families in 2024 (Intuit Benefits). Mental Health and Wellbeing: Intuit places a strong emphasis on mental health. Employees have access to no-cost confidential counseling, support for managing stress, depression, and workplace challenges, as well as resources for mindfulness and resilience building

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