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

Is a Rollover into an IRA the Right Move for You as a Waste Management Employee?

Healthcare Provider Update: Healthcare Provider for Waste Management Waste Management, Inc., a leading provider of waste collection, disposal, and recycling services in North America, partners with Cigna Healthcare to provide healthcare benefits to its employees. Cigna offers a range of health insurance plans, including medical, dental, and vision coverage, tailored to meet the needs of Waste Management's diverse workforce. Healthcare Cost Increases in 2026 As we approach 2026, Waste Management and its employees may face significant healthcare cost increases due to substantial projected hikes in health insurance premiums. The Affordable Care Act (ACA) marketplace is anticipating an average increase of over 20%, with certain states seeing hikes surpassing 60% as a result of rising medical costs and the potential expiration of enhanced federal premium subsidies. This combination of factors could lead to out-of-pocket premium costs soaring by more than 75% for many employees, placing additional financial strain on both the company and its workforce during the upcoming year. Click here to learn more

Choosing an IRA rollover means that your money remains tax-advantaged and capable of growth, as in a Waste Management-sponsored plan. You may also gain more investment options than what may have been available in your Waste Management-sponsored plan. You may also gain oversight of managing these important retirement assets from your trusted Advisor.

If you roll your retirement plan assets over into an IRA account that you already own through your Advisor, you also receive the benefit of combined statements and holistic investment planning, making it easier to track your overall financial situation.

'Receive the benefit of combined statements and holistic investment planning, making it easier to track your overall financial situation.'

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Some of the benefits of rolling your money into an IRA include:

Tax-deferred growth potential: This generally avoids current income tax and distribution penalties when removed from a Waste Management-sponsored retirement plan.

More investment choices: This allows for additional contributions, if eligible. IRAs can be combined and handled by one provider, thereby reducing trustee costs and consolidating statements. Protection from creditors in federal bankruptcy proceedings. The combined amount of your required minimum distributions (RMDs) can be taken from any of your Traditional, SEP or SIMPLE IRAs.

However, there are also some important considerations that Waste Management should make before rolling over their money into an IRA, these include:

Internal management fees might be higher than in a Waste Management-sponsored retirement plan.
Fees and expenses depend largely on the investments you choose.
Loans from an IRA are not allowed.
Early distributions may be subject to a 10% IRS tax penalty in addition to income tax.
RMDs begin April 1 following the year you reach 70½ and annually thereafter; leaving the money in the former Fortune-500 plan may allow RMDs to be delayed until separation from service.
IRAs are subject to state laws governing malpractice, divorce, creditors (outside of bankruptcy), and other lawsuits; leaving the money in the former Waste Management-plan may provide additional protection against creditors.
Net unrealized appreciation (NUA) is the difference between what you paid for employer securities and their increased value. You lose favorable tax treatment of NUA if the funds are rolled into an IRA.

Hopefully, these insights will be helpful as you plan your retirement from Waste Management.

For more information about this topic, view our e-book here: https://retirekit.theretirementgroup.com/will-your-retirement-plan-retire-with-you-e-brochure-offer

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What is the 401(k) plan offered by Waste Management?

The 401(k) plan at Waste Management is a retirement savings plan that allows employees to save a portion of their earnings on a tax-deferred basis.

How can I enroll in Waste Management's 401(k) plan?

Employees can enroll in Waste Management's 401(k) plan through the company’s HR portal or by contacting the HR department for assistance.

Does Waste Management provide a company match for the 401(k) contributions?

Yes, Waste Management offers a company match for employee contributions to the 401(k) plan, which helps employees save more for retirement.

What is the maximum contribution limit for Waste Management's 401(k) plan?

The maximum contribution limit for Waste Management's 401(k) plan is in line with IRS regulations, which may change annually. Employees should refer to the latest IRS guidelines for current limits.

Can I change my contribution percentage to Waste Management's 401(k) plan?

Yes, employees can change their contribution percentage to Waste Management's 401(k) plan at any time by accessing their account through the HR portal.

When can I start withdrawing funds from my Waste Management 401(k) plan?

Employees can typically start withdrawing funds from their Waste Management 401(k) plan at age 59½, but specific conditions may apply.

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

Waste Management's 401(k) plan offers a variety of investment options, including mutual funds, target-date funds, and other investment vehicles to suit different risk tolerances.

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

Yes, Waste Management has a vesting schedule for the company match, which means employees must work for a certain period before they fully own the matched contributions.

How can I access my Waste Management 401(k) account?

Employees can access their Waste Management 401(k) account online through the designated retirement plan website or mobile app.

What happens to my Waste Management 401(k) if I leave the company?

If you leave Waste Management, you have several options for your 401(k), including rolling it over to another retirement account, cashing it out, or leaving it in the Waste Management plan if permitted.