New Update: Healthcare Costs Increasing by Over 60% in Some States. Will you be impacted?

Planning for a Century: How Frontier Communications Employees Can Navigate the Financial Landscape of a Longer Retirement

Healthcare Provider Update: Healthcare Provider for Frontier Communications Frontier Communications typically partners with large insurance companies for their employee healthcare plans. As of 2025, the primary provider for Frontier Communications is UnitedHealth Group, which offers a variety of health insurance plans catering to the organization's workforce. Potential Healthcare Cost Increases in 2026 In 2026, health insurance premiums are projected to soar, with many states experiencing increases that could exceed 60%. The combination of rising medical costs and the potential expiration of enhanced federal premium subsidies is expected to drastically impact consumers. Specifically, over 22 million individuals enrolled in Affordable Care Act (ACA) marketplace plans may see their out-of-pocket premiums rise by more than 75%. As insurers like UnitedHealthcare and Anthem announce substantial rate hikes, the financial strain could leave many families facing unaffordable coverage options, further complicating access to necessary healthcare services. Click here to learn more

Jordi Visser monitors his heart rate daily. In addition, he monitors his breathing, tracks the quality of his sleep, and consumes a diet rich in fruits and vegetables. Visser, 56 years old, does not do this due to poor health. In contrast, he is focused on the future. His objective is a prosperous and active retirement spanning decades. In 2011, 54% of retirees believed they would not live as long as the average person of their age and gender. Only 31% reported a longer life expectancy than the population average.

According to a PlanAdviser article, 'The Society of Actuaries found that approximately 43% of retirees underestimate their own life expectancy by at least five years,' says Kate Beattie, senior retirement income strategist with Capital Group in Los Angeles. Everyone seems to be aware that Americans are living longer than ever before, except for investors.

'We are at the nexus of technology and longevity,' says Visser for a Barron’s article. Frontier Communications employees must note how the chief investment officer at Weiss Multi-Strategy Advisers also believes that in the coming decade, advances in medicine and technology may allow Americans to not only live longer but also healthier lives, as published in the Barron's article. Tom Brady is a prime example of something that was deemed impossible, according to Visser.

Brady, who recently announced his retirement from football at the age of 45, is, of course, in a class by himself. But Visser's point is unmistakable: the rest of us mere mortals may need to reevaluate our assumptions about what is achievable in our senior years and our investment strategy. Frontier Communications employees looking to retire should understand how a retirement that could last decades requires a portfolio designed for the long haul. Similarly, controlling your expenses while still enjoying your retirement may require a delicate balance.

Maintaining Stocks

Soon-to-be Frontier Communications retirees may benefit from considering an old rule of thumb for retirement investing: subtract your age from 100 to determine the proportion of your portfolio that should be invested in stocks. A 70-year-old should allocate 30% of his or her portfolio to stocks, according to this rule.

When a healthy adult has a chance of living to 100, this rule seems hopelessly obsolete. This 70-year-old must plan for the next 30 years, which necessitates remaining invested in equities to generate the growth necessary to combat inflation.

According to a Barron’s article, Pete Bush, an advisor at Cetera Financial Group and co-founder of Horizon Financial Group in Baton Rouge, states that equities are the long-term engine your portfolio requires.

“People typically believe, oh, I'm getting close to retirement. I should play it safe. They are contemplating retirement, not retirement itself,” he says.

Frontier Communications employees should consider how some 70-year-olds are actually as healthy as 50-year-olds. In light of this, Visser suggests that investors consider their biological age, which is essentially a measure of your health that may be vastly different from your chronological age. Scientists are developing accurate methods for determining biological age. Some of the techniques, such as analyzing saliva and blood samples, may appear fantastical. But Visser says there is a fundamental takeaway for investors: 'Your health should influence how you view your portfolio.'

For Frontier Communicationsemployees, identifying the optimal asset allocation is a piece of the puzzle. Bush advises investors to strike a balance between growth and value, pointing out that growth stocks have performed well over the past decade but poorly over the past year. In the coming years, international stocks may also outperform U.S. stocks, in stark contrast to the performance of the sector over the past decade. This is partially because European and Asian stocks are typically less expensive than American stocks. The asset manager Vanguard anticipates higher 10-year annualized returns for developed markets outside the United States, between 7.2% and 9.2%, than for U.S. markets, between 4.7% and 6.2%.

According to a Barron's article, Jeremy Altfeder, a financial advisor at Captrust, claims bonds can play an important role for income and security, especially now that interest rates are higher. 'Consider a client who spends $100,000 per year. Therefore, we require a year's supply of necessities. We could reserve $100,000 in Treasury bills.”

Altfeder mentions how investors can feel more at ease when they have sufficient funds set aside, sometimes as much as seven years' worth depending on the client. 'Laddering out Treasuries and other instruments is highly predictable,' he says. If you hold the bonds until maturity, you are aware of their yield.

Numerous financial advisors also recommend complex strategies involving alternative investments, trusts, and estate planning, depending on the individual's wealth, tax situation, desire to leave an inheritance to heirs or charity, and risk tolerance. The objective is to preserve this wealth, sometimes into the next generation.

A New Perspective on Work-Life Balance

Frontier Communications employees should consider how the possibility of living a longer, healthier life generates additional incentives to work longer and delay filing for Social Security. This will ensure a larger monthly benefit as you claim at a later age. These actions can increase your savings and provide your portfolio with additional time to grow before you begin withdrawing funds.

There are two additional ways for investors who need to save more to advance their retirement savings. First, the updated contribution limits established by the Internal Revenue Service permit investors to contribute up to $22,500 to their 401(k), 403(b), and other retirement plans in 2023, an increase from the previous limit of $20,500. People over the age of 50 can save up to an additional $7,500. New legislation is phasing in an increase in the age for required minimum distributions, or RMDs, from 72 to 75, which will benefit investors who are planning for a long retirement.

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Frontier Communications employees should keep in mind how they are not required to remain in their current position or even work full-time. Chip Munn, advisor and chief executive officer of Signature Wealth Strategies in Florence, South Carolina, has assisted clients in reorganizing their work so they are not in a hurry to retire. According to a Barron’s article, he claims 'Older workers have a great deal of value and leverage.' However, there may be no formal programs at your company to accommodate your desired schedule, so you may need to approach your employer and say, 'Hey, I don't want to retire, but I'd like to work part time.'

Additionally, there are benefits to being active. 'Those who are happiest and healthiest work longer but less,' he says.

Even for those who believe they have sufficient savings, early retirement can be riskier than you might expect. Frontier Communications employees should consider the story of Cyndi Hutchins, a Bank of America employee who witnessed this firsthand. Her grandmother retired at the age of 55 after a 41-year career.

'At that point, I began to think differently about retirement,' says Hutchins, director of financial gerontology in the retirement research and insights group of a bank. 'We anticipated a 10- to 15-year retirement. There were numerous factors that we had overlooked. She had a pension, but it was a small pension, and it was difficult to make it last for 41 years. Her family was ultimately required to contribute to her grandmother's living costs.'

From 1960 to 2015, life expectancy in the United States rose by nearly 10 years, from 69.7 to 79.4 years. According to a report from the 2020 Census Bureau, the average life expectancy is projected to increase by another 6.1 years between 2016 and 2060, reaching a record high of 85.6 years. Frontier Communications employees should also note how Americans are living longer than ever before. Almost one-fifth of the U.S. population is over 65 years old.

As a result of rising inflation and last year's weak stock and bond markets, it is not surprising that more people fear running out of money in old age. This includes individuals with substantial savings. According to a 2022 survey of high-net-worth investors conducted by Natixis Investment Managers, more than a third of millionaires believe that achieving a secure retirement 'will require a miracle.'

Frontier Communications employees should recognize how this anxiety is driving a surge in the demand for annuities, which are insurance contracts that guarantee a lifetime income. Frank Paré, founder of PF Wealth Management, has contemplated including a single premium immediate annuity, or SPIA, in the retirement plans of some clients. With an SPIA, an investor pays a lump sum to an insurance company, which then provides a lifetime income stream to the annuity owner. The payout of the annuity depends on several factors, including the age and gender of the owner.

However, there are a few exceptions, says Paré. First, fees may be considerable. Second, you must maintain a portion of your retirement funds in stocks, bonds, and other assets. 'You do not want to leave yourself without sufficient liquidity outside the SPIA,' Paré says.

Another concern with annuities is inflation. 'Your purchasing power will be in jeopardy if you don't have an inflation rider and inflation accelerates like it did last year,' Paré says.

For Frontier Communications employees considering an annuity, keep in mind that it's just one tool among many. 'I don't believe in silver bullets,' Paré says.

Expense Management

In addition to maximizing income, retirees of all wealth levels must monitor their budget and avoid major new expenses that require costly maintenance, such as a vacation home or new boat, as they enter retirement.

Frontier Communications employees should note how healthcare is the expense that retirees underestimate the most, particularly for healthy seniors who are fortunate enough to live a long life. According to a 2022 report by Fidelity Investments, a 65-year-old couple can anticipate spending an average of $315,000 on medical expenses during retirement. According to Fidelity, one of the nation's largest 401(k) providers, this estimate increased by 5% from 2021 and has nearly doubled since 2002, when it was $160,000.

In the first two decades of retirement, a healthy lifestyle can help keep costs down, but there are some factors that are beyond our control. Consider investing in a health savings account, which provides advantageous tax benefits, to help prepare for future medical expenses. 'If you can contribute to an HSA without using the funds to pay for current healthcare expenses, it's a fantastic way to save for long-term care,' says Hutchins of Bank of America.

For Frontier Communications employees, where you choose to live in retirement will have a significant impact on your expenses, so make this decision as soon as possible. Some Americans choose to relocate to states with warmer climates and cheaper living expenses. Consider whether your new community will be able to accommodate your future medical needs, in addition to your hobbies.

In retirement, the majority of Americans do not move or do not move very far. According to a 2021 AARP survey, approximately 75 percent of adults aged 50 and older intend to remain in their current residence for the foreseeable future. 'If you're healthy and active, it's simple to remain in your current home,' says Hutchins in the Barron’s article. 'As you age, consider whether your home is age-friendly.' She says that if you do not have a bathroom on the first floor, you should include the cost of this renovation in your financial plan.

The Key to Contentment

Perhaps most importantly, advisors and healthcare professionals agree that maintaining an active social life in retirement is the key to happiness. Obtain a hobby if you do not have one already. Donate time to a charity. Share a meal with friends.

For Frontier Communications employees, this recommendation may sound trite. Despite that, it has significant health benefits. The Harvard Study of Adult Development, which has been following a group of adults and their descendants for more than eighty-five years, has discovered that close personal connections are a key factor in both longevity and physical and mental health.

Isolation and loneliness, according to Bank of America's Hutchins, accelerate cognitive decline symptoms the quickest. 'You must continue to interact with others and ensure that your physical and emotional needs are met.'

Joseph Coughlin, director of the MIT AgeLab, recommends considering your lunch companions when planning for retirement. This determines not only the quality of your investment portfolio, but also the quality of your social portfolio. Do you have friends? If you retire and move, will you be able to locate them? 'It takes time to develop a strong friendship,' he says.

Ultimately, if you are going to live to be 100, you want to have close personal relationships and enough money to be worry-free.

How does Frontier Communications Corporation determine the eligibility and participation criteria for employees in the pension plan? What are the key components that employees should be aware of in terms of service hours and years of service that can impact their pension benefits?

Frontier Communications Corporation determines pension plan eligibility based on employees' transfer from Verizon, crediting prior service under the Verizon Pension Plan to the Frontier Plan. Employees must meet the eligibility and service requirements, including hours of service and years of service, which are integral to calculating accrued benefits. The pension plan specifies that employees' service prior to the transition is recognized for determining their benefits under the Frontier plan(Frontier_Communications…).

In what ways does Frontier Communications Corporation ensure that employees transitioning from Verizon retain their accrued benefits under the new pension plan? Can you elaborate on how prior service will be accounted for under the Frontier Plan and any potential challenges that may arise in this process?

Employees transitioning from Verizon to Frontier retain their accrued benefits, with prior service credited under the Frontier Pension Plan. This is facilitated by a "Mirror Plan," which ensures that benefits under Verizon’s plan are transferred without reduction. Prior service is critical to the calculation of benefits and will continue under the Frontier Plan. However, challenges may arise regarding understanding the precise terms of service credits post-transition(Frontier_Communications…).

How does the merger of the Verizon pension plans with the Frontier Communications Corporation Pension Plan affect employeesâ€™ future benefits? What measures are put in place to ensure that Former Verizon employees receive benefits that are at least as favorable as those they previously had?

The merger of Verizon pension plans into the Frontier Communications Pension Plan guarantees that former Verizon employees receive benefits that are at least as favorable as those they had under the Verizon plan. The benefits accrued under Verizon are preserved, and future benefits are determined similarly, subject to Frontier’s amendments(Frontier_Communications…).

What resources are available for Frontier Communications Corporation employees to access more detailed information regarding their pension plan benefits? How might these resources assist in understanding the changes post-merger with Verizon?

Frontier provides detailed pension information through resources such as the Milliman Benefits Service Center. Employees can access these resources to better understand the impacts of the merger and ensure their benefits remain intact. The Summary Plan Description (SPD) and Summary of Material Modifications (SMM) provide employees with comprehensive updates post-merger(Frontier_Communications…).

Can you explain the process and implications for employees at Frontier Communications Corporation if they decide to appeal a denied pension claim? What steps must they take, and how does the appeals process ensure compliance with ERISA regulations?

If an employee’s pension claim is denied, they may appeal by submitting a written claim to the Plan Administrator, with additional documentation if requested. The appeals process ensures compliance with ERISA regulations, offering employees multiple review stages to reconsider denied claims(Frontier_Communications…).

How does Frontier Communications Corporation communicate updates to its pension plan practices to employees? Are there specific intervals or methods by which changes are shared, and how can employees keep abreast of these changes?

Frontier communicates pension plan updates to employees through various channels, including formal documents like the SMM and SPD. Updates are typically distributed periodically, with critical changes communicated as needed. Employees should regularly check for updates to stay informed(Frontier_Communications…).

In the context of financial planning for retirement, how do past benefits from the Verizon pension plans get integrated into the existing Frontier Communications Corporation pension framework? What advice can be given to employees regarding their financial health as they approach retirement?

Past benefits from the Verizon pension plan are integrated into Frontier’s pension framework through the transfer of assets and liabilities. Employees should review their benefit statements and consult financial planning resources to ensure a smooth transition and optimize their retirement strategy(Frontier_Communications…).

What roles do the Milliman Benefits Service Center and the Claims Review Committee play in supporting the employees of Frontier Communications Corporation regarding their pension claims? How can employees engage with these entities for assistance?

The Milliman Benefits Service Center supports employees with pension inquiries, while the Claims Review Committee handles appeals. Employees can contact Milliman for questions and submit appeals to the Claims Review Committee if disputes arise over benefits(Frontier_Communications…).

As an employee of Frontier Communications Corporation, what should be understood about the standard forms of pension payments available at retirement? How do these options impact the total benefits an employee may receive over time?

Frontier employees should understand the available pension payment options, including annuities and lump-sum distributions. These options affect the total amount received, and employees should consider their long-term financial needs when selecting a payment method(Frontier_Communications…).

How can employees contact Frontier Communications Corporation for more information about their pension plan? What are the best practices for reaching out and ensuring that their inquiries are handled efficiently?

Employees can contact Frontier regarding pension plans through the Milliman Benefits Service Center by phone or via their online portal. It is recommended to prepare inquiries with relevant documentation to ensure efficient handling(Frontier_Communications…).

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

Frontier Communications offers both a pension plan and a 401(k) savings plan for its employees. The Frontier Communications Pension Plan is designed for veteran employees, particularly those in bargaining units, and is structured to provide retirement benefits based on years of service and compensation. Employees must generally have completed five years of service to become vested. The pension formula involves a standard calculation of a fixed amount per year of service. Frontier allows eligible participants to elect a full lump sum if they retire after March 1, 2022, due to the plan’s improved funded status of 91% as of February 2022 (CWA 1298). In addition to the pension, Frontier offers the Frontier Communications 401(k) Savings Plan, which is available to all employees, with specific vesting and matching rules. The company uses Fidelity to manage this plan and offers a match of up to 6% of the employee’s contributions (CWA 1298). Matching contributions are subject to a vesting schedule that requires several years of employment before the company contributions are fully vested. Employees can contribute on a pre-tax or post-tax basis, depending on their financial strategy.

Restructuring and Layoffs: Frontier Communications has undergone significant restructuring efforts, including layoffs as part of its strategy to streamline operations and reduce costs. In recent reports from 2023-2024, the company has been focusing on reducing its workforce to improve efficiency and focus on core business areas. This restructuring is crucial to understand given the current economic climate, where companies are reassessing their operations to stay competitive. The economic environment and evolving market demands are driving such changes, and it’s important for stakeholders to stay informed about these developments. Benefit and Pension Changes: Frontier has also made adjustments to its employee benefits and pension plans. Recent changes include alterations to retirement benefits and 401(k) contributions as part of its broader cost-cutting measures. These changes reflect broader trends in the industry where companies are re-evaluating their benefit structures in response to economic pressures and shifting regulatory environments. Keeping up with these changes is essential for employees and investors alike, given the current tax and political landscape that influences corporate benefit strategies.

Frontier Communications typically offers stock options to executives and senior management. These options grant employees the right to purchase Frontier Communications' stock at a predetermined price within a specified period. The company usually sets performance targets that must be met for options to vest. RSUs: Frontier Communications provides RSUs to various levels of employees, including senior management and other key contributors. RSUs are granted with specific vesting schedules, often based on tenure or performance milestones. The vesting of RSUs is generally linked to continued employment with the company. Specific Information by Year

Frontier Communications Health Benefits 1. Official Company Website: Frontier Communications Careers: Health benefits are listed on their career page, providing information about the types of insurance, eligibility, and plan details. Company Newsroom: Check for any press releases or news related to changes in health benefits or employee healthcare initiatives. 2. Employee Review Websites: Glassdoor: Employee reviews often include information about health benefits and satisfaction with healthcare coverage. Indeed: Look for company reviews and benefits summaries from current or former employees. 3. Benefits Review Websites: Payscale: Provides detailed reports on employee compensation and benefits, including health insurance. Comparably: Offers insights into company benefits, including health insurance plans and employee satisfaction. 4. News Outlets: Business Insider: Check for any articles or news reports related to changes in employee benefits at Frontier Communications. Reuters: Look for any updates or news stories related to employee health benefits. 5. Industry and Financial News: Forbes: Search for any relevant articles discussing health benefits changes or company policies affecting employees. Bloomberg: Look for reports on Frontier Communications’ employee benefits and any associated financial impacts.