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Navigating Change: Financial Insights for Divorced Employees of Medical Mutual of Ohio

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 Medical Mutual of Ohio 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 Medical Mutual of Ohio 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 Medical Mutual of Ohio 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 Medical Mutual of Ohio 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 type of retirement savings plan does Medical Mutual of Ohio offer?

Medical Mutual of Ohio offers a 401(k) retirement savings plan for its employees.

Does Medical Mutual of Ohio match employee contributions to the 401(k) plan?

Yes, Medical Mutual of Ohio provides a matching contribution to employee contributions, up to a certain percentage.

What is the eligibility requirement to participate in the Medical Mutual of Ohio 401(k) plan?

Employees of Medical Mutual of Ohio are eligible to participate in the 401(k) plan after completing a specified period of service.

How can employees of Medical Mutual of Ohio enroll in the 401(k) plan?

Employees can enroll in the Medical Mutual of Ohio 401(k) plan through the company's HR portal or by contacting the HR department.

What investment options are available in the Medical Mutual of Ohio 401(k) plan?

The Medical Mutual of Ohio 401(k) plan offers a variety of investment options, including mutual funds and target-date funds.

Can employees of Medical Mutual of Ohio take loans against their 401(k) savings?

Yes, Medical Mutual of Ohio allows employees to take loans against their 401(k) savings, subject to specific terms and conditions.

What is the vesting schedule for employer contributions in the Medical Mutual of Ohio 401(k) plan?

The vesting schedule for employer contributions at Medical Mutual of Ohio is outlined in the plan documents, typically based on years of service.

How often can employees change their contribution amounts in the Medical Mutual of Ohio 401(k) plan?

Employees can change their contribution amounts in the Medical Mutual of Ohio 401(k) plan at designated times throughout the year.

Does Medical Mutual of Ohio offer educational resources for employees regarding their 401(k) plan?

Yes, Medical Mutual of Ohio provides educational resources and tools to help employees understand their 401(k) options and investment choices.

What happens to my 401(k) savings if I leave Medical Mutual of Ohio?

If you leave Medical Mutual of Ohio, you can choose to roll over your 401(k) savings into another qualified retirement account or leave it in the Medical Mutual of Ohio plan, subject to certain conditions.