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Navigating Change: Financial Insights for Divorced Employees of Mercury General

Healthcare Provider Update: Offers medical, dental, vision, life insurance, and HSAs/FSAs, with up to 95% employer coverage depending on the plan3. As ACA subsidies phase out, Mercurys generous employer contributions and comprehensive benefits may shield employees from the financial impact of rising premiums. Click here to learn more

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 Mercury General 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 Mercury General 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 Mercury General 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 Mercury General 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 Mercury General offer to its employees?

Mercury General offers a 401(k) retirement savings plan to its employees.

Is the 401(k) plan at Mercury General available to all employees?

Yes, the 401(k) plan at Mercury General is available to all eligible employees.

What is the employer match policy for the 401(k) plan at Mercury General?

Mercury General provides a matching contribution to the 401(k) plan, typically matching a percentage of employee contributions, up to a certain limit.

How can employees at Mercury General enroll in the 401(k) plan?

Employees at Mercury General can enroll in the 401(k) plan through the company’s HR portal or by contacting the HR department for assistance.

What are the contribution limits for the 401(k) plan at Mercury General?

The contribution limits for the 401(k) plan at Mercury General follow the IRS guidelines, which are updated annually.

Does Mercury General offer a Roth 401(k) option?

Yes, Mercury General offers a Roth 401(k) option, allowing employees to contribute after-tax dollars.

Can employees at Mercury General take loans against their 401(k) savings?

Yes, Mercury General allows employees to take loans against their 401(k) savings, subject to specific terms and conditions.

What investment options are available in the Mercury General 401(k) plan?

The Mercury General 401(k) plan includes a variety of investment options, such as mutual funds, stocks, and bonds.

How often can employees at Mercury General change their 401(k) contribution amounts?

Employees at Mercury General can change their 401(k) contribution amounts at any time, subject to plan rules.

What happens to my 401(k) balance if I leave Mercury General?

If you leave Mercury General, you can choose to roll over your 401(k) balance to another retirement account, cash it out, or leave it in the plan if eligible.

With the current political climate we are in it is important to keep up with current news and remain knowledgeable about your benefits.

Pension Plan Name: Mercury General does not offer a traditional defined benefit pension plan. The company primarily focuses on offering a 401(k) plan to its employees. 401(k) Plan Name: Mercury General Corporation 401(k) Plan Eligibility: Employees are eligible to participate in the Mercury General Corporation 401(k) Plan after completing 30 days of service. The plan is available to full-time employees. Company Match: Mercury General provides a matching contribution to the 401(k) plan, though specifics about the match percentage may vary based on the company’s policies and plan documents.

Restructuring and Layoffs: In 2023, Mercury General announced a significant restructuring plan aimed at streamlining operations and improving efficiency. This move was driven by the need to adapt to changing market conditions and the economic environment. The restructuring included layoffs in several departments, with a focus on reducing operational costs and reallocating resources to more strategic areas. The company's management emphasized that these changes were necessary to enhance competitiveness and long-term sustainability. The impact of these layoffs on employees and the broader organizational structure is a key concern amid current economic uncertainties.

Description: Mercury General's 2022 annual report details the stock options and RSUs offered to employees. Stock options are generally available to executives and key employees, while RSUs may be granted to a broader range of employees based on performance.

Benefits Overview: Offers a comprehensive benefits package including medical, dental, and vision insurance. They provide health savings accounts (HSAs), flexible spending accounts (FSAs), and wellness programs. Medical Plans: Includes PPO and HMO plans. Employees can choose between different levels of coverage based on their needs. Wellness Programs: Includes access to fitness resources, mental health support, and preventive care programs.