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Investing for Income 11 Different Ways for Rockwell Employees and Retirees

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Fixed-income investing can provide an income stream to protect capital and provide financial independence for Rockwell employees looking to retire comfortably, said Wesley Boudreaux, of The Retirement Group, a division of Wealth Enhancement Group.

'As more Rockwell employees live longer than expected, an advisor can help you secure the income needed to fund a long retirement through instruments such as bonds and annuities,' said Patrick Ray of The Retirement Group, a division of Wealth Enhancement Group.

In this article we will discuss:

1. Creating streams of income for retiring Rockwell employees.

2. Fixed-income investments include bonds, municipal bonds and preferred stock.

3. Work with a financial advisor to understand investments for retirement income.


Because many Rockwell employees get more years in retirement, retirees have to carve out streams of income with which to live. That's the goal of investing for income - having enough income to cover your expenses so you can avoid tapping into your principal retirement savings. As a Rockwell employee, investing for income may be less risky than investing for growth through traditional stock market investments. It's because fixed-income investing aims to help you as a Rockwell employee preserve your capital so you can draw down ongoing income in interest or dividend form.

That's what makes investing for income a viable option for Rockwell employees and retirees who like knowing what their investments will provide for them in the future. With this basic understanding of how investing for income can put you on the path to a more predictable retirement outcome than most traditional stock market-based plans can promise, let's look at 11 different ways you can invest for income. Most fixed-income investments are bonds. These have a set amount of interest to pay and a fixed amount to be paid back at maturity, called the par value. What comes to mind first when people think about investing in bonds is government bonds.

Those government bonds are debt securities issued by a government to fund government spending. They're issued by national governments and are considered low risk because they're backed by the government issuing the bonds. One example is a United States debt security backed by the United States. The U.S. Treasury Department also issues U.S. Treasury Bonds. U.S. Treasury Bonds are long-term bonds that mature in 10 to 30 years. But what if you're not a Rockwell employee who wants to hang your cash for more than 10 years?

So there we have the second way to invest for income:

U.S. Treasury Notes. U.S. Treasury Notes are another type of debt security that the U.S. government issues to fund government spending. The loan also has an advertised interest rate, payable semi-annually until maturity. U.S. Treasury notes are offered at two-, three-, five-, seven- and 10-year terms.

For the Rockwell employee:

If you think that's still too long to tie up your money, then item # 3 on our list may be for you. U.S. Treasury Bills are short-term debt obligations backed by the United States Treasury Department for terms of one year or less. They come in one, three, six and 12 month maturities. Because they have shorter terms, they will generally charge less interest than the two other options we discussed. We think those are reasonable short-term investments for Rockwell employees and retirees. What if you want U.S. government bonds? As a Rockwell employee, maybe you want to put your money where it counts - in something local - that will help local governments with government projects. Look next if that's the case. Municipal bonds are debt securities issued by state and local governments to fund public works and are used mainly to build or improve parks, roads, bridges, libraries or other infrastructure. As a Rockwell employee, municipal bonds can help preserve capital while earning interest. Some municipal bonds pay no federal taxes and some are tax-free at the state and local levels as well. But interest earned on municipal bonds could affect your social benefits and the tax you might owe on those benefits.

That's why you as a Rockwell employee should work with a financial advisor who understands retirement planning and saving before you invest in such securities. As a Rockwell employee you need to know that corporate bonds are debt securities that corporations issue to raise money for ongoing operations, mergers and acquisitions or to expand their business. The term corporate bond is used for debt instruments issued by a corporation with at least one year maturities. Corporate bonds fall under two broad categories. The first is high-grade corporate bonds - investment-grade corporate bonds. The second category is high-yield corporate bonds or junk bonds. The two distinctions are based among other things on the risk that the bondholder assumes by investing in those bonds. Generally speaking, investment-grade corporate bonds will yield less interest than higher-risk, junk bonds. At TRG we work with Rockwell employees to maximize return with minimum risk. Preferred stocks are equities that pay a fixed dividend and have a par value.

So even if shares' market value drops below par, investors will still receive the fixed dividend payment. Should that company ever redeem or call those shares, those shares are called back at par value. As a Rockwell employee, you need to know the different classes of equities and stocks to make sound decisions. Mortgage-backed securities are investments secured by a basket of mortgages purchased by the banks that issued them. MBS receives periodic payments similar to bond interest payments. All of the above are options Rockwell employees and retirees could consider for an investment strategy to generate income. A business development company is a closed-end fund that invests in organizations developing or seeking financial help. BDCs can offer high dividend yields and capital appreciation. BDCs have no par value but have loans to businesses in their portfolios that have par value. People forget about another type of fixed-income investment - Certificates of Deposit (CDs). You pay an agreed rate of interest in return for agreeing not to withdraw money from that account for a specified period of time until the maturity date.

When that CD term ends, the investor gets their principal back. Problem with CDs:

if you have an emergency and need to access those funds now, you could face early withdrawal penalties. You put money in CDs because it is insured by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC). All of the amounts insured are capped, so check with your bank that the amount you put in that CD is within the limits of insurance. These are sometimes called money market deposit accounts or money market retirement savings accounts and are also considered fixed-income investments - most are backed by the FDIC - and usually carry a higher rate of interest than a traditional retirement savings account and permit account holders to make occasional penalty-free withdrawals. There are just six transactions per month - transfers or withdrawals. A contract between you and an insurance company under which you pay a lump-sum or series of payments and receive regular disbursements is called an annuity. These investments can provide a monthly income for a retiree but must be funded many years before you get any payout.

How to Invest for Income among the 11 ways to Invest for Income There's one common thread:

you can know how much income your investments will provide. Also know when you will get those interest or dividend payments. We say that by investing for income, you know with greater certainty what your financial future holds - certainty that most common stock investments cannot provide. Find out how fixed income investing or other types of investing works in our Retirement learning Library of ebooks and webinars on investing. Since increasingly many Rockwell employees will live 20 or 30 years in retirement, you owe it to yourself to build stable streams of income you can count on well into your final years in retirement. What if you are one of the few who make it to 100? Rather than waiting for growth in an uncertain stock market, investing for income can reduce the risk that you run out of money before you run out of life. The first is finding a financial advisor who understands planning for retirement and how to best utilize fixed-income investments.

Working with a financial advisor from The Retirement Group means working with a fiduciary who knows how to help you invest for income. A nationwide organization of financial advisors called The Retirement Group. We only plan for and design retirement portfolios for transitioning corporate employees. And each representative of The Group has been hand-picked by The Retirement Group in select cities throughout The United States. Each advisor was screened for pension expertise, financial planning experience and portfolio construction knowledge. TRG believes in teamwork to find solutions to our clients' problems. A conservative investment philosophy guides the team in constructing client portfolios with laddered bonds / CDs / mutual funds / ETFs / annuities / stocks and other investments.

They handle retirement / pensions / tax / asset allocation / estate / elder care issues. This document uses different research tools and techniques. All attempts to estimate future results involve assumptions and judgments and are therefore only tentative estimates. The law, investment climate, interest rates and personal circumstances will all change and will affect how accurate our estimations are and how appropriate our recommendations are. Such a plan requires ongoing change sensitivities as well as constant re-examination and alteration of the plan. So update your plan a few months before your expected retirement date and do an annual review.

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Nothing contained herein shall be construed as an attempt by The Retirement Group, LLC or any of its employees to practice law or accounting. We look forward to speaking with any tax and/or legal professionals you may select regarding the implications of our recommendations. Through your retirement years, we will continue to update you on issues affecting your retirement via our complimentary and proprietary newsletters, workshops & periodic updates. Or call us at (800) 900-5867.

Sources:

1. Brandon, Emily. '7 High-Return, Low-Risk Investments for Retirees.'  U.S. News & World Report , Feb. 2025,  www.money.usnews.com/investing/articles/high-return-low-risk-investments-for-retirees?utm_source=chatgpt.com .

2. 'Investment Options to Generate Income in Retirement.'  U.S. Bank , Feb. 2025,  www.usbank.com/retirement-planning/financial-perspectives/investment-options-to-generate-retirement-income.html?utm_source=chatgpt.com .

3. 'The Benefits of a Diversified Retirement Portfolio.'  TIAA , Feb. 2025,  www.tiaa.org/public/learn/lifetime-income/retirement-portfolio-diversification-strategies?utm_source=chatgpt.com .

4. 'Finding Fixed Income Investments for Retirement.'  Charles Schwab , Sept. 2023,  www.schwab.com/learn/story/finding-fixed-income-investments-retirement?utm_source=chatgpt.com .

5.'Fixed Income for Retirement.'  M1 Finance , Jan. 2025,  www.m1.com/knowledge-bank/fixed-income-for-retirement/?utm_source=chatgpt.com .

What retirement planning resources are available to employees of Rockwell Automation that can assist them in understanding their benefits upon retirement, specifically regarding the Pension Plan and Retirement Savings Plan? Discuss how Rockwell Automation provides these resources and the potential impact on an employee's financial security in retirement.

Retirement Planning Resources: Rockwell Automation provides several retirement planning resources to aid employees in understanding their Pension Plan and Retirement Savings Plan benefits. The company offers access to a pension calculator and detailed plan descriptions through their benefits portal. Additionally, employees can seek personalized advice from Edelman Financial Engines, which can guide on Social Security, pensions, and 401(k) management. These tools collectively help in maximizing retirement income, ensuring financial security.

In what ways does Rockwell Automation support employees who are transitioning to retirement to find appropriate health coverage, particularly for those who may be eligible for Medicare? Explore the relationship between Rockwell Automation's healthcare offerings and external resources like Via Benefits and how they assist retirees in navigating their healthcare options.

Health Coverage for Retiring Employees: Rockwell Automation supports transitioning employees by offering pre-65 retiree medical coverage and facilitating access to Via Benefits for those eligible for Medicare. This linkage ensures continuous healthcare coverage and aids retirees in navigating their options effectively. Via Benefits provides a platform to compare and select Medicare supplement plans, ensuring that retirees find coverage that best fits their medical and financial needs.

How does the retirement process affect the life insurance benefits that employees of Rockwell Automation currently hold? Investigate the various options available to retiring employees regarding their life insurance policies and the importance of planning for these changes to ensure adequate coverage post-retirement.

Life Insurance Benefits: Upon retirement, life insurance coverage through Rockwell Automation ends, but employees have options to convert or port their policies. This transition plan allows retirees to maintain necessary coverage and adapt their life insurance plans to meet their changing financial and familial obligations post-retirement, thus ensuring continued protection.

What considerations should Rockwell Automation employees take into account when planning the timing of their pension benefit elections, and how can this timing affect their retirement income? Discuss the implications of pension benefit timing on financial planning and the suggested practices by Rockwell Automation for making these decisions.

Pension Benefit Election Timing: The timing of pension benefit elections can significantly impact retirement income. Rockwell Automation provides resources to model different retirement scenarios using their pension calculator. Employees are advised to consider the timing of benefit elections carefully, as early or delayed starts impact the financial outcome, thereby affecting overall financial stability in retirement.

How can employees of Rockwell Automation estimate their Social Security benefits before retirement, and what tools or resources does Rockwell Automation provide to aid in this process? Delve into the importance of understanding Social Security benefits as part of an overall retirement strategy and how Rockwell Automation facilitates this understanding.

Estimating Social Security Benefits: Employees are encouraged to use resources provided by Rockwell Automation to estimate their Social Security benefits. The company offers tools and external advisory services, including consultations with Edelman Financial Engines through the company’s portal, which help in understanding how Social Security benefits integrate with other retirement income sources for a comprehensive retirement strategy.

What are the health care options available to Rockwell Automation employees who retire before reaching the age of 65, and how do these options differ from those available to employees who retire after age 65? Discuss the eligibility requirements and implications of choosing, or deferring, retiree medical coverage under Rockwell Automation's plans.

Health Care Options for Employees Retiring Before Age 65: Rockwell Automation offers distinct health care plans for employees retiring before age 65, with eligibility dependent on age and years of service. These plans provide substantial support by covering different medical needs until the retiree is eligible for Medicare, illustrating the company’s commitment to ensuring health coverage continuity for its workforce.

In what ways can Rockwell Automation employees effectively prepare for potential cash flow gaps when transitioning into retirement? Evaluate the financial planning strategies recommended by Rockwell Automation to minimize the stress associated with income disruption during this critical period.

Preparing for Cash Flow Gaps: Rockwell Automation addresses potential cash flow gaps during retirement transition through detailed planning resources. The company highlights the importance of budgeting and provides tools to estimate the timing and amounts of retirement benefits. This proactive approach helps employees manage their finances effectively during the transitional phase of retirement.

What resources does Rockwell Automation offer to help employees make informed decisions regarding their retirement income sources, including pensions, savings plans, and Social Security? Examine the tools and guidance supplied by the company and how these can impact the employee's financial readiness for retirement.

Informed Decisions on Retirement Income Sources: Rockwell Automation offers extensive resources, including workshops and personalized counseling through partners like Edelman Financial Engines, to help employees make informed decisions about their retirement income sources. This support is crucial in helping employees optimize their income streams from pensions, savings plans, and Social Security.

How do Rockwell Automation's retirement benefits differ based on an employee's years of service, and what implications do these differences have for planning a secure retirement? Analyze the various tiers of benefits and options available to long-term versus newer employees and the importance of understanding these differences.

Impact of Service Years on Retirement Benefits: The company’s retirement benefits vary with the length of service, affecting the retirement planning of both long-term and newer employees. This tiered benefit structure underscores the importance of understanding how service length impacts pension calculations and eligibility for other retirement benefits, guiding employees in their long-term financial planning.

How can employees contact Rockwell Automation to seek further information about the retirement benefits discussed in the retirement document? Specify the available channels for communication and the types of inquiries that can be addressed through these means, underscoring the company's commitment to supporting employees during the retirement process.

Seeking Further Information: Employees can contact the Rockwell Automation Service Center for further information about retirement benefits. The availability of detailed plan descriptions and direct access to retirement specialists via phone ensures that employees receive support tailored to their specific retirement planning needs, reinforcing the company's commitment to facilitating a smooth transition to retirement.

With the current political climate we are in it is important to keep up with current news and remain knowledgeable about your benefits.
Rockwell Automation offers a defined benefit pension plan for employees hired before July 1, 2010. This plan provides retirement income based on years of service and final average pay. For employees hired after this date, the company offers a defined contribution plan, including a 401(k) with company matching contributions. Rockwell Automation uses a pension calculator to help employees estimate their benefits based on various retirement scenarios. Additionally, the company has taken steps to manage its pension obligations, such as transferring some liabilities to insurance companies.
Restructuring and Layoffs: Rockwell Automation announced plans to lay off 3% of its global workforce, amounting to approximately 900 employees, due to a decline in sales. The layoffs are part of broader cost-saving measures aimed at saving $100 million in the second half of 2024 and $120 million in 2025. These actions are intended to align costs with current market conditions and prepare for future growth (Sources: WPR, Urban Milwaukee).
Rockwell Automation includes RSUs in its compensation packages, vesting over time and providing shares upon vesting. Stock options are also provided, enabling employees to buy shares at a predetermined price.
Rockwell Automation has made significant improvements to its employee healthcare benefits in response to the evolving economic, investment, tax, and political environment. In 2022, the company emphasized comprehensive health and wellness programs, which included a range of medical, dental, and vision plans, as well as mental health support services through Employee Assistance Programs (EAP). These benefits are designed to provide employees with the resources they need to maintain their physical and mental well-being. Additionally, Rockwell Automation's commitment to creating a safe and supportive work environment is evident through its structured environmental, health, and safety (EHS) initiatives, which aim to mitigate workplace risks and promote a culture of safety. In 2023, Rockwell Automation continued to enhance its healthcare offerings by expanding access to telemedicine services and implementing wellness programs focused on preventive care. The company also introduced financial wellness programs to help employees manage their finances and plan for retirement effectively. These initiatives are part of Rockwell Automation's broader strategy to attract and retain top talent by providing comprehensive healthcare benefits that address the diverse needs of its workforce. By investing in these benefits, Rockwell Automation aims to ensure long-term business success and resilience in a dynamic economic landscape.
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For more information you can reach the plan administrator for Rockwell at 1201 s 2nd st Milwaukee, WI 53204; or by calling them at 1-414-382-2000.

https://www.rockwellautomation.com/documents/pension-plan-2022.pdf - Page 5 https://www.rockwellautomation.com/documents/pension-plan-2023.pdf - Page 12 https://www.rockwellautomation.com/documents/pension-plan-2024.pdf - Page 15 https://www.rockwellautomation.com/documents/401k-plan-2022.pdf - Page 8 https://www.rockwellautomation.com/documents/401k-plan-2023.pdf - Page 22 https://www.rockwellautomation.com/documents/401k-plan-2024.pdf - Page 28 https://www.rockwellautomation.com/documents/rsu-plan-2022.pdf - Page 20 https://www.rockwellautomation.com/documents/rsu-plan-2023.pdf - Page 14 https://www.rockwellautomation.com/documents/rsu-plan-2024.pdf - Page 17 https://www.rockwellautomation.com/documents/healthcare-plan-2022.pdf - Page 23

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