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Navigating Change: Financial Insights for Divorced Employees of Los Angeles Fire and Police Pensions

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 Los Angeles Fire and Police Pensions 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 Los Angeles Fire and Police Pensions 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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We'd like our Los Angeles Fire and Police Pensions 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 Los Angeles Fire and Police Pensions employees understanding a few key concepts, they may be able to avoid making costly financial mistakes.

Average Interest Rate

Chart Source: Familyinequality.com, 2019

1. The Wall Street Journal, 2019

What is the purpose of the 401k/Savings Plan offered by Los Angeles Fire and Police Pensions?

The purpose of the 401k/Savings Plan offered by Los Angeles Fire and Police Pensions is to help employees save for retirement by allowing them to contribute a portion of their salary to a tax-advantaged account.

How can employees of Los Angeles Fire and Police Pensions enroll in the 401k/Savings Plan?

Employees of Los Angeles Fire and Police Pensions can enroll in the 401k/Savings Plan by completing the enrollment form available on the company's intranet or by contacting the HR department for assistance.

What types of contributions can employees make to the 401k/Savings Plan at Los Angeles Fire and Police Pensions?

Employees at Los Angeles Fire and Police Pensions can make pre-tax contributions, Roth (after-tax) contributions, and possibly employer matching contributions, depending on the plan specifics.

Is there a minimum contribution amount required for the 401k/Savings Plan at Los Angeles Fire and Police Pensions?

Yes, Los Angeles Fire and Police Pensions may have a minimum contribution amount, typically around 1% of the employee's salary, but employees should check the plan documents for specific details.

What is the maximum contribution limit for the 401k/Savings Plan at Los Angeles Fire and Police Pensions?

The maximum contribution limit for the 401k/Savings Plan at Los Angeles Fire and Police Pensions is subject to IRS regulations, which can change annually. Employees should refer to the latest IRS guidelines for the current limits.

Does Los Angeles Fire and Police Pensions offer employer matching contributions for the 401k/Savings Plan?

Yes, Los Angeles Fire and Police Pensions offers employer matching contributions to the 401k/Savings Plan, which can help employees increase their retirement savings.

How often can employees change their contribution amounts to the 401k/Savings Plan at Los Angeles Fire and Police Pensions?

Employees at Los Angeles Fire and Police Pensions can typically change their contribution amounts at any time, but they should check the plan rules for any specific restrictions.

What investment options are available within the 401k/Savings Plan at Los Angeles Fire and Police Pensions?

The 401k/Savings Plan at Los Angeles Fire and Police Pensions offers a variety of investment options, including mutual funds, target-date funds, and possibly other investment vehicles, depending on the plan.

Can employees take loans against their 401k/Savings Plan balance at Los Angeles Fire and Police Pensions?

Yes, employees may be able to take loans against their 401k/Savings Plan balance at Los Angeles Fire and Police Pensions, subject to the terms and conditions of the plan.

What happens to the 401k/Savings Plan when an employee leaves Los Angeles Fire and Police Pensions?

When an employee leaves Los Angeles Fire and Police Pensions, they have several options for their 401k/Savings Plan, including rolling it over to an IRA or another qualified plan, cashing it out, or leaving it in the plan if permitted.