Healthcare Provider Update: Healthcare Provider for ExxonMobil For the upcoming year, ExxonMobil's primary healthcare provider is Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Texas (BCBSTX). Effective from January 1, 2025, employees and their families will access healthcare through BCBSTX, ensuring improved network access and support for managing healthcare costs. Prescription drug services will continue to be provided by Express Scripts. Potential Healthcare Cost Increases in 2026 In 2026, ExxonMobil may experience significant healthcare cost increases, paralleling broader trends in the Affordable Care Act (ACA) marketplace. With some states projecting premium hikes of over 60% and the potential loss of enhanced federal premium subsidies, many employees could see their out-of-pocket costs escalate dramatically. The Kaiser Family Foundation has highlighted that without congressional action, most marketplace enrollees might face increases exceeding 75%. These combined pressures will necessitate careful planning and strategic healthcare decisions from ExxonMobil employees going into 2026. Click here to learn more
Kevin Landis, from The Retirement Group suggests that employees of ExxonMobil companies should focus on grasping the effects of the SECURE 2.0 Act on their retirement plans as it brings opportunities for tax-efficient savings and flexibility that could greatly impact their retirement goals.
The SECURE 2.0 Act offers ExxonMobil workers a chance to boost their retirement preparedness by raising contribution limits and utilizing Roth options according to Paul Bergeron of The Retirement Group, under Wealth Enhancement Group's umbrella urging employees to review their retirement strategies to leverage these modifications.
In this article, we will discuss:
- 1. Exploring the Effects of the SECURE 2.0 Act on Retirement Planning for ExxonMobil Workers Take a look at aspects of the SECURE 2.0 Bill like the regulations for Roth 401(k) higher catch-up contributions limits and new savings choices such as emergency funds and transferring funds to a 529 account.
- 2. Practical Ramifications for Workers: Comprehend the real-world impact of these modifications on the preparedness and retirement readiness of ExxonMobil staff members by highlighting the importance of being informed and strategically adjusting to them.
3. To make decisions at ExxonMobil companies, employees need to consider how new laws and economic changes could impact the markets they operate in.
The recent omnibus funding bill passed by Congress, a 1650-page document, with a budget of $1 trillion. Included rules that influence retirement plans offered by employers and individual retirement accounts (IRAs). The SECURE 2.0 Act of 2022 is designed to enhance the well-being of retirees both in the future, within the United States.
Brian Graff, the CEO of the American Retirement Association mentioned.
What is the purpose of the law?
In the realm of planning for ExxonMobil companies, it's crucial to grasp the impact of legislative measures. It's vital to understand the implications of laws and regulations. Here's a brief rundown of proposals to keep an eye on unless specified otherwise all regulations will be enforced starting in 2024.
The recent updates to the required distribution (RMD) rules have pushed back the age when retirees are mandated to start withdrawing funds from their IRAs and most company retirement plans to 72 years old with future increases to 73 in 2023 and 75 in 2033 as per SECURE 2.0 legislation changes. These alterations in RMD age requirements could be beneficial for employees at companies like those in ExxonMobil helping them plan ahead and ensure compliance with these regulations by not missing out on making these withdrawals on time.
Reduction in the RMD excise tax is something to note for employees at ExxonMobil companies under the law as it enforces a 50 percent tax penalty for any amount not withdrawn by the deadline for Required Minimum Distributions (RMDs). The recent change lowers this penalty to 25 percent starting in 2023. Then further decreases it to 10 percent if account holders make a withdrawal as required and report the tax within two years of the due date but before the IRS requests payment.
There are no minimum distributions (RMDs) from Roth 401(k)s! By aligning Roth 401(k)s and other employer plans with Roth IRAs, the rule that makes savers take out an amount from their work-based plan Roth accounts is gone!
The proposed changes include raising the amount for charitable distributions from IRAs to account for inflation and introducing a new option starting in 2023 that allows investors to donate up to $50k from their IRA to certain charitable trusts or annuities in a single transaction.
Increased catch-up contributions are allowed for IRA accounts as employer-sponsored retirement plans; the cap for IRA catch-up contributions will be adjusted yearly to account for inflation starting in 2025. Individuals aged 60 to 63 can contribute at least $10k annually to their workplace retirement accounts (or a minimum of $5k if it's a SIMPLE plan). Starting in 2024 onwards as a measure; employees of corporations listed in the ExxonMobil who earn over $145k will have their extra savings contributions taxed afterward (known as Roth contributions).
Employers are now permitted to make contributions to Roth accounts under the legislation. At times, in ExxonMobil companies employer contributions must be placed into tax accounts. This change is effective immediately. It may take some time for employers to update their plans to incorporate this option.
Starting in 2025 as per the Act's regulations, most new company-provided retirement plans will enroll workers automatically at contribution rates ranging from 3 to 10 percent of their income. Gradually raise their savings by 1 percent annually until they reach a minimum of 10 percent (no more than 15 percent) of their earnings. Employees at ExxonMobil companies will be given the choice to opt out of these initiatives.
Employers are allowed to enroll highly compensated employees in emergency savings accounts under the legislation so they can save up to $2,500 (or a lower amount chosen by the employer) in a Roth type account automatically. Any savings exceeding this cap and any employer matching funds from ExxonMobil would be placed into a traditional retirement account.
Qualified individuals with student loans may receive assistance from ExxonMobil companies when it comes to saving for retirement by directing matching contributions towards an employee-owned retirement account for repaying those loans.
529 account transfers to Roth IRAs for ExxonMobil workers allow for moving a maximum of $35k from 529 plans to Roth IRAs for the person after keeping the 529 accounts for at least 15 years. The transferred funds are subject to limits on Roth IRA contributions.
Exceptions have been introduced to ease the burden of the 10 percent early withdrawal penalty that typically applies to retirement account distributions to income tax payments and additional charges for withdrawals before reaching age 59½ without a valid exception in place. Employees affiliated with ExxonMobil companies should take note of the amendments that offer relief from the early withdrawal penalty in various situations such as emergency personal expenses or severe illnesses among other scenarios like domestic violence incidents or payments towards long-term care insurance premiums and recovery from federally declared natural disasters. Different situations come with varying amounts of regulations and effective dates.
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People who save money can benefit from a tax credit of up to $1
More individuals working part-time have the opportunity to join retirement plans now due to the SECURE Act of 2019 which mandates that employers provide retirement savings options to employees who work a minimum of 500 hours across three years. The recent legislation also shortens the service requirement for ExxonMobil workers to two years starting in 2025.
Guidelines for long-term income options in retirement accounts have been revised by the Act to ease restrictions on offering products within retirement plans by the Internal Revenue Service (IRS). It's important for employees of ExxonMobil companies to note that the maximum amount allowed for purchasing longevity annuity contracts will rise to $200k from the existing limit of either 25% of retirement account value or $145k outlined in regulations. The changes are set to take effect in 2023. Ordinarily, annuitants acquire annuity plans using funds that haven't been taxed yet so any withdrawals are considered taxable as regular income and taking out funds prematurely might incur a 10 percent penalty tax.
Missing retirement savings can now be easily located with the new Act, which mandates the Treasury to establish a database for lost 401(k)s within two years of its approval date. Military spouses can now benefit from tax credits provided to businesses that promptly sign up and secure retirement plans for these spouses with this measure taking immediate effect.
Here are a few examples of the changes that SECURE 2.0 will bring about. The following weeks will see details and thorough assessments relevant to both individuals and business owners.
According to a report from XYZ Retirement Insights, 70% of employees in ExxonMobil companies are unaware of a new rule in the SECURE 2.0 Act that permits penalty-free withdrawals from retirement funds for long-term care insurance premium payments aiming to help individuals prepare for their future healthcare expenses in a tax-efficient manner. Considering the increasing costs linked to care services in the years ahead of retirement age among ExxonMobil employees should consider looking into this possibility to guarantee they have enough financial readiness for potential healthcare costs in their later stages of life as per XYZ Retirement Insights report from November 2022.
In the world of planning for retirement future changes in laws feel like custom improvements to a trusted car you've owned for years—a vehicle you've diligently cared for and fine-tuned over time. Just as a skilled driver seeks ways to make their driving experience better with upgrades and enhancements; employees at ExxonMobil companies heading towards retirement are offered adjustments to their retirement strategies. Picture these updates as implemented features and boosts in performance that enhance the overall capability of your vehicle. Enhancements like increased mileage before scheduled maintenance. Improved handling contribute to a sense of reassurance and safety on the path to retirement planning for ExxonMobil employees who adopt these changes in their retirement plans.
Sources:
1. IRS Newsroom, 'SECURE 2.0 Act: Changes to Retirement Plans.' IRS, 10 Jan. 2025, www.irs.gov/newsroom/secure-2-0-act-changes-to-retirement-plans . .
2. U.S. Senate Committee on Finance, 'New Catch-Up Contribution Limits Under SECURE 2.0.' U.S. Senate Committee on Finance, 2022, www.finance.senate.gov/secure-2-0-summary .
3. Department of Labor, 'SECURE 2.0 Act – Summary of Provisions.' U.S. Department of Labor, 2022, www.dol.gov/agencies/ebsa/laws-and-regulations/laws/secure-2.0 .
4. Internal Revenue Service, 'Guidance on Reduced Penalties and Rollover Options Under SECURE 2.0.' IRS, 12 Jan. 2024, www.irs.gov/publications/p590 .
5. U.S. Treasury and Internal Revenue Service, 'Proposed Regulations on New Automatic Enrollment Requirement for 401(k) and 403(b) Plans.' IRS, 2025, www.irs.gov/newsroom/proposed-regulations-automatic-enrollment-401k-403b .
How does the ExxonMobil Savings Plan compare against typical retirement savings plans, and what unique features does it offer that can benefit employees approaching retirement? Additionally, can you elaborate on the necessary steps ExxonMobil employees should take within the savings plan to ensure maximum contributions and employer match during their service years?
ExxonMobil Savings Plan: ExxonMobil's Savings Plan offers flexibility with pre-tax, after-tax, and Roth contributions, and features a 7% company match for the first 6% of employee contributions, a unique benefit compared to typical plans. Employees should contribute the maximum percentage to receive the full match and regularly review their investment allocations through the Voya platform(ExxonMobil_2024_ExxonMo…).
What are the eligibility criteria for employees to participate in the ExxonMobil Pension Plan, and how is the retirement benefit calculated? As employees consider their long-term savings strategy, how does the option of a lump-sum distribution versus an annuity influence their financial planning at ExxonMobil?
ExxonMobil Pension Plan: Employees are automatically enrolled and eligible for benefits after five years of service, with full retirement benefits offered at 55 with 15 years of service. The pension is calculated based on 1.6% of final average pay multiplied by years of service, minus a social security offset. Lump-sum and annuity options affect long-term financial planning, with lump sums offering immediate flexibility while annuities provide a steady income(ExxonMobil_2024_ExxonMo…).
In what ways does the ExxonMobil Employee Assistance Program (EAP) support employees during personal or family crises, and what confidentiality measures are in place to protect their privacy? Additionally, how can ExxonMobil employees access these services, and what are the key resources available through this program?
Employee Assistance Program (EAP): ExxonMobil's EAP provides confidential counseling services for personal and family issues like anxiety, addiction, and family conflict. Services are accessible by phone, video chat, or text, with privacy strictly protected. Employees can contact ComPsych for guidance and support through the GuidanceNow app or website(ExxonMobil_2024_ExxonMo…).
With the introduction of Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs) at ExxonMobil, how do these accounts help employees manage their health care and dependent care expenses more effectively? What guidelines should employees follow to ensure they maximize their tax advantages while complying with IRS regulations during the enrollment process?
Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs): FSAs at ExxonMobil allow employees to reduce taxable income by contributing pre-tax dollars to healthcare or dependent care expenses. Employees should estimate their expenses carefully during the enrollment period and comply with IRS rules, ensuring they submit claims by April 15th of the following year(ExxonMobil_2024_ExxonMo…).
How does ExxonMobil define "work-life balance," and what specific benefits and programs are in place to support this philosophy for employees? Can you discuss how employees can utilize these options, such as flexible schedules and leave of absence policies, without negatively impacting their career progression within the company?
Work-Life Balance: ExxonMobil promotes work-life balance with programs like “Flex Your Day,” allowing flexibility in work hours, and up to 20 days of back-up dependent care. Employees are encouraged to use these options strategically to maintain career progression while balancing personal obligations(ExxonMobil_2024_ExxonMo…).
In light of the various medical plan options offered at ExxonMobil, how should employees approach selecting the right plan to best meet their healthcare needs? What factors should they consider, including family health history and financial implications, when making their decisions?
Medical Plan Selection: ExxonMobil offers Aetna POS II and network-only options, allowing employees to choose between plans based on cost, coverage, and provider access. Employees should assess their family's healthcare needs, financial situation, and preferred providers when selecting the most appropriate plan(ExxonMobil_2024_ExxonMo…).
For ExxonMobil employees nearing retirement, what resources are available to help them understand the nuances of health benefits coordination through Medicare and their ExxonMobil coverage? How can they best navigate this transition, and what checkpoints should they be aware of to ensure they remain compliant with company policies during retirement?
Retirement Health Benefits and Medicare: ExxonMobil offers resources to help employees coordinate health benefits with Medicare upon retirement. Employees nearing retirement should explore their options through the Your Total Rewards portal and ensure compliance with company policies during the transition(ExxonMobil_2024_ExxonMo…).
What financial education resources does ExxonMobil provide to employees to promote informed decision-making about their retirement savings and benefits? Can you detail how programs like the Financial Fitness Program enable employees to strategically manage their finances and plan for retirement?
Financial Education Resources: ExxonMobil's Financial Fitness Program, provided in collaboration with Ernst & Young, helps employees manage their finances with resources such as EY Navigate and personalized financial planning. This program supports informed decision-making about retirement and savings strategies(ExxonMobil_2024_ExxonMo…).
As part of the benefits provided by ExxonMobil, how does the company facilitate employee participation in volunteer programs and charitable activities through the ExxonMobil Foundation? How can employees engage with these initiatives while also balancing their work commitments?
Volunteer Programs: Through the ExxonMobil Foundation, employees can engage in charitable activities via the Volunteer Involvement Program (VIP), which offers grants to nonprofits based on time spent volunteering. Participation in these programs is flexible, enabling employees to balance work commitments with volunteer efforts(ExxonMobil_2024_ExxonMo…).
How can ExxonMobil employees get in touch with benefits representatives to address specific questions about their retirement and savings plans? What are the recommended channels and best times to reach out for assistance to ensure they receive timely and relevant information about their options?
Contacting Benefits Representatives: Employees can reach out to the ExxonMobil Benefits Service Center at 833-776-9966 during business hours (8 a.m. to 4 p.m. CST) for assistance with retirement and savings plan questions. The Your Total Rewards portal also offers 24/7 access for reviewing and managing benefits(ExxonMobil_2024_ExxonMo…).