The latest research suggests that divorce rates in the U.S. have been falling in recent decades. Still, many people face the difficult crossroads that comes when their marriage ends.
Getting a divorce is a painful, emotional process. Don’t be in such a hurry to reach a settlement that you make poor decisions that can have life-long consequences. For any of our Globe Life clients who may possibly have to have a divorce, here are a few financial ideas that may help you prepare.
The most important task these Globe Life employees can do is to get their finances organized. Identify all your assets and make copies of important financial papers, such as deeds, tax returns, and investment records. When it comes to dividing up your assets, consider mediation as a low-cost alternative to litigation. Most states have equitable-distribution laws that require shared assets to be divided 50/50 anyway. When a divorce becomes contentious, attorney’s fees can accumulate.
From a financial perspective, divorce means taking all the income previously used to run one household and stretching it out over two residences, two utility bills, two grocery lists, etc. There are other hidden costs as well, such as counseling for you or your children. Divorces also may require incurring one-time fees, such as a security deposit on a rental property, moving costs, or increased child-care.
Finally, dividing assets may sound simple but it can be quite complex. The forced sale of a home or investment portfolio may have tax consequences. Potential tax liability also can make two seemingly equal assets have varying net values. Additionally, when pulling apart a portfolio, it makes sense to consider how each asset will suit the prospective recipient in terms of risk tolerance and liquidity.
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- How Are Workers Impacted by Inflation & Rising Interest Rates?
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We'd like our Globe Life clients to remember, the information in this article is not intended as tax or legal advice. Please consult legal or tax professionals for specific information regarding your individual situation.
During a divorce, many factors are competing for attention. By these Globe Life employees understanding a few key concepts, they may be able to avoid making costly financial mistakes.
Chart Source: Familyinequality.com, 2019
1. The Wall Street Journal, 2019
What type of retirement plan does Globe Life offer to its employees?
Globe Life offers a 401(k) retirement savings plan to its employees.
How can employees of Globe Life enroll in the 401(k) plan?
Employees of Globe Life can enroll in the 401(k) plan through the company’s HR portal or by contacting the HR department for assistance.
Does Globe Life match employee contributions to the 401(k) plan?
Yes, Globe Life provides a matching contribution to employee contributions up to a certain percentage, as outlined in the plan details.
What is the maximum contribution limit for employees participating in Globe Life's 401(k) plan?
The maximum contribution limit for Globe Life's 401(k) plan follows the IRS guidelines, which may change annually. Employees should check the current limits for the specific year.
Can employees of Globe Life take loans against their 401(k) savings?
Yes, Globe Life allows employees to take loans against their 401(k) savings, subject to the terms and conditions of the plan.
Is there a vesting schedule for employer contributions in Globe Life's 401(k) plan?
Yes, Globe Life has a vesting schedule for employer contributions, which means employees must work for a certain period before they fully own the employer's contributions.
What investment options are available in Globe Life's 401(k) plan?
Globe Life's 401(k) plan offers a variety of investment options, including mutual funds, target-date funds, and other investment vehicles.
How often can employees change their contribution amounts in Globe Life's 401(k) plan?
Employees of Globe Life can change their contribution amounts typically on a quarterly basis or as specified by the plan rules.
Are there any fees associated with Globe Life's 401(k) plan?
Yes, there may be fees associated with Globe Life's 401(k) plan, including administrative fees and investment management fees. Employees should review the plan documents for details.
What happens to an employee's 401(k) account if they leave Globe Life?
If an employee leaves Globe Life, they can choose to roll over their 401(k) balance to another qualified plan, withdraw the funds, or leave the balance in the Globe Life plan if permitted.