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What Group 1 Automotive Employees Should Know About Caring for Aging Parents

Healthcare Provider Update: Healthcare Provider for Group 1 Automotive Group 1 Automotive typically utilizes major insurance providers like UnitedHealthcare, Cigna, and Aetna to offer health benefits to employees. However, specific plan details and healthcare provider partnerships may vary by location and plan year, so referring directly to their employee benefits information is advisable for the most accurate and tailored details. Potential Healthcare Cost Increases in 2026 In 2026, healthcare costs are projected to rise significantly, driven by a convergence of issues including the anticipated expiration of enhanced federal subsidies for Affordable Care Act (ACA) plans. Without these subsidies, many consumers could face out-of-pocket premium increases of over 75%, affecting approximately 92% of marketplace enrollees. Additionally, overall medical costs are rising as providers seek higher reimbursements to cope with inflationary pressures, resulting in insurers proposing average premium increases approaching 20%. As such, employees of Group 1 Automotive and others could see substantial hikes in their healthcare expenses, necessitating a thoughtful consideration of their healthcare plans and budgeting for the forthcoming year. Click here to learn more

'Many Group 1 Automotive employees underestimate how caregiving responsibilities may influence their long-term planning. To prepare thoughtfully and involve the right professionals, it's important to start these conversations early.' — Paul Bergeron, a representative of The Retirement Group, a division of Wealth Enhancement.

'Many Group 1 Automotive employees face unexpected pressure when aging parent responsibilities arise. I believe early planning and open family communication can help households navigate these challenges with greater clarity.' — Tyson Mavar, a representative of The Retirement Group, a division of Wealth Enhancement.

In this article, we will discuss:

Key warning signs that aging parents may need additional support.
Essential legal and health care preparations to help families stay organized.
How to coordinate family involvement and emotional readiness during caregiving.

Many Group 1 Automotive employees in their mid-50s to early 60s come to discover that their retirement planning may have to expand to include the needs of their aging parents. As America’s population grows older, adult children frequently take on caregiving responsibilities for parents facing health issues, financial weaknesses, and cognitive decline. These realities influence family dynamics, investments, estate planning, taxes, and emotional well-being.

“Your parents' financial vulnerabilities become your financial stress unless you plan ahead and take a proactive role,” explains Brent Wolf, CFP®, an advisor at Wealth Enhancement.

Below are key considerations for individuals ages 55 to 65 who are preparing to support elderly parents.

1. Recognize the Early Signs of Cognitive Decline

For many families, cognitive decline in an aging parent typically appears gradually. Early warning signs may include:

- Repeatedly forgetting conversations
- Missing or duplicating bill payments
- Confusion about routine transactions
- Financial decisions influenced by new “friends”
- Unusual wire transfers or unexpected spending changes

Your role is not to diagnose—your role is to observe and speak up early. By addressing concerns promptly, you, your family, and your advisory team can potentially help mitigate the risk of future financial or cognitive harm.

2. Put Durable Power of Attorney and a Trusted Contact in Place

If a parent becomes cognitively impaired without a durable power of attorney, families often face a costly, lengthy conservatorship process. Group 1 Automotive employees can address this by planning ahead.

Consider getting the following key documents in place:

- A trusted contact authorization
- Durable Power of Attorney for finances
- HIPAA releases and health care power of attorney
- Updated beneficiary designations, wills, and trusts

These steps can help reduce uncertainty and lessen the risk of financial exploitation should a parent become more vulnerable.

3. Prepare for Health Care Shock: Medicare Has Gaps

Many households are surprised by how much Medicare does not cover. Common out-of-pocket costs include:

- Long-term custodial care (memory care, assisted living, in-home support)
- Prescription drugs
- Private caregivers and care managers
- Out-of-pocket deductibles and co-pays

To plan effectively, Group 1 Automotive employees should understand:

- What your parents’ insurance covers
- Their likely care expenses
- Whether self-funding or long-term care strategies may fit
- Whether Medicaid planning (with its five-year look-back) should begin early

Health care decisions become more urgent if cognitive decline is a concern.

4. Guard Your Parents Against Financial Abuse

Financial abuse is a growing threat for older adults—including parents of Group 1 Automotive employees. Common scams include:

- Romance schemes
- Fake IRS, FedEx, or government calls
- “Grandchild in trouble” scams
- Caregiver misconduct
- Pressure from acquaintances or distant relatives
- Fraudulent investment pitches

Adult children often hesitate to intervene, but silence can increase risk. Advisors can help monitor accounts, identify unusual activity, and place temporary holds when needed.

5. Organize the “Invisible” Parts of Their Financial Life

By age 80, even financially experienced parents may struggle to keep up with routine obligations such as:

- Required minimum distributions
- Quarterly tax payments
- Charitable documentation
- Insurance renewals
- Online passwords
- Property tax deadlines
- Portfolio withdrawal planning

Advisors can help reduce errors by automating tasks, consolidating accounts, and simplifying processes.

6. Bring the Entire Family Into the Conversation Early

The most challenging situations often arise when adult children learn of issues only after a crisis. Group 1 Automotive employees may benefit from:

- Annual family meetings
- Clear conversations about parents’ wishes
- Defined caregiving and financial roles
- Discussions around independence and dignity

Proactive communication may helps mitigate conflict and avoid last-minute decisions during emergencies.

7. Prepare Yourself Emotionally and Financially

Caring for aging parents can influence:

- Retirement timing
- Your ability to continue working
- Your cash flow
- Your mental and emotional resilience

Advisors can help you develop:

- A dedicated “parent care fund”
- Tax-efficient withdrawal strategies
- Cash flow outlines that factor in elder care
- Estate plans that reflect multigenerational needs

With thoughtful planning, supporting your parents does not have to disrupt your retirement goals—even for Group 1 Automotive employees navigating complex benefits.

8. Build a Team-Based Approach

Families caring for elderly parents often benefit from a coordinated team that may include:

- A financial advisor
- An attorney with experience working with seniors
- Tax specialist
- Geriatric care manager
- Estate planning attorney
- Health care advocates

Working together, these professionals can help manage risk for both parents and adult children through a unified strategy.

Conclusion

Aging is inevitable—but it does not have to create chaos. Early planning, while parents are still capable, can lessen emotional strain, help minimize family conflict, and ideally reduce the likelihood of financial harm.

“The best gift you can give your aging parents is structure, clarity, and a financial advocate who supports them when they can no longer support themselves,” says Brent Wolf.

For Group 1 Automotive employees ages 55 to 65, now is the time to act.

Taking the Next Step

The Retirement Group can help you design a Parent Care Plan that includes financial oversight, health care review, legal preparation, and fraud monitoring.

To speak with a team member who can guide you through each stage of the process, call (800) 900-5867 .

We are here to support you, your parents, and your family through every stage of life.

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Articles you may find interesting:

Sources:

1. Alzheimer’s Association. “10 Early Signs and Symptoms of Alzheimer’s and Dementia.” Alzheimer’s Association , 2025, www.alz.org/alzheimers-dementia/10_signs .

2. Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services. “Long-Term Care.” Medicare.gov , n.d., www.medicare.gov/coverage/long-term-care .

3. Federal Bureau of Investigation. “Elder Fraud.” FBI , U.S. Department of Justice, n.d., www.fbi.gov/how-we-can-help-you/scams-and-safety/common-frauds-and-scams/elder-fraud .

What type of retirement plan does Group 1 Automotive offer to its employees?

Group 1 Automotive offers a 401(k) retirement savings plan to its employees.

Is Group 1 Automotive's 401(k) plan available to all employees?

Yes, the 401(k) plan at Group 1 Automotive is available to all eligible employees.

What is the employer match for the 401(k) plan at Group 1 Automotive?

Group 1 Automotive provides a matching contribution to the 401(k) plan, typically matching a percentage of employee contributions up to a certain limit.

How can employees enroll in the 401(k) plan at Group 1 Automotive?

Employees can enroll in the 401(k) plan at Group 1 Automotive through the company's benefits portal or by contacting the HR department for assistance.

What investment options are available in Group 1 Automotive's 401(k) plan?

Group 1 Automotive's 401(k) plan offers a variety of investment options, including mutual funds, stocks, and bonds, allowing employees to choose based on their risk tolerance.

Can employees change their contribution amount to the 401(k) plan at Group 1 Automotive?

Yes, employees can change their contribution amount to the 401(k) plan at Group 1 Automotive at any time, subject to certain restrictions.

What is the vesting schedule for Group 1 Automotive's 401(k) matching contributions?

The vesting schedule for Group 1 Automotive's matching contributions typically follows a standard schedule, which may vary; employees should refer to the plan documents for specific details.

Does Group 1 Automotive offer a loan option against the 401(k) plan?

Yes, Group 1 Automotive may allow employees to take loans against their 401(k) balance, subject to the plan's terms and conditions.

At what age can employees withdraw funds from their 401(k) at Group 1 Automotive without penalties?

Employees can generally withdraw funds from their 401(k) at Group 1 Automotive without penalties after reaching the age of 59½.

What happens to the 401(k) plan if an employee leaves Group 1 Automotive?

If an employee leaves Group 1 Automotive, they have several options for their 401(k) plan, including rolling it over to a new employer's plan, an IRA, or cashing it out.

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

Name of Pension Plan: Group 1 Automotive does not have a traditional defined benefit pension plan. Instead, they offer a defined contribution 401(k) plan. Years of Service and Age Qualification: As Group 1 Automotive does not offer a traditional pension plan, there are no specific years of service or age qualifications for a pension. Pension Formula: Not applicable as there is no traditional pension plan. Source Document and Page Number: Information about Group 1 Automotive’s pension plans is not found in traditional pension plan documents, as they utilize a 401(k) plan. Group 1 Automotive 401(k) Plan Name of 401(k) Plan: Group 1 Automotive 401(k) Plan Who Qualifies: Employees who are at least 21 years old and have completed 90 days of service are eligible to participate in the 401(k) plan. 401(k) Plan Details: Contribution Matching: Group 1 Automotive typically offers a matching contribution, which may be up to a certain percentage of the employee's salary. Vesting Schedule: Employees are generally vested in their own contributions immediately, while employer contributions may be subject to a vesting schedule over several years. Source Document and Page Number: The details are usually found in the company's employee handbook or benefits summary document. For specific page numbers, you would need to consult the latest employee benefits guide or contact the HR department directly, as this can vary between documents and editions.

Layoffs and Restructuring: In 2023, Group 1 Automotive announced a significant restructuring plan, resulting in layoffs across several departments. The company cited the need to streamline operations and adapt to changing market conditions as reasons for these changes. This move is crucial to understand due to its implications on employee benefits and job security amidst a volatile economic climate. The restructuring aims to improve operational efficiency but could affect employee morale and financial stability. Changes in Benefits and 401(k): Alongside layoffs, Group 1 Automotive made adjustments to its employee benefits package and 401(k) plan. The company reduced its matching contributions to the 401(k) plan and altered health benefits to control rising costs. These changes are important to monitor as they impact employees' long-term financial planning and retirement security. The adjustments reflect broader trends in the automotive sector as companies respond to financial pressures and regulatory changes.

Identify Relevant Sources: Company Financial Reports: Look at Group 1 Automotive’s annual reports or 10-K filings, which are typically available on their investor relations website. SEC Filings: Check the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) EDGAR database for relevant filings. Company Press Releases: Review press releases on Group 1 Automotive’s official website or major business news websites. Financial News Websites: Use reputable financial news websites like Bloomberg, Reuters, or Yahoo Finance. Gather Information: Stock Options and RSUs: Look for details on stock options and RSUs, including the types available, eligibility criteria, and the amounts granted. Acronyms: Identify and define any acronyms related to stock options and RSUs used by Group 1 Automotive. Document Specifics: Dates: Ensure the information is relevant for the years 2022, 2023, and 2024. Summarize Information: Two-Column Format: Create a summary in a two-column format with specific details for Group 1 Automotive. Here is a preliminary structure based on a hypothetical search:

Glassdoor: Look at employee reviews and salary reports, which often include details about health benefits. Indeed: Search for reviews and insights about the company's health benefits from current and former employees. LinkedIn: Check if the company has posted any updates or articles related to employee benefits. HR and Benefits Publications: Search for articles or reports that discuss Group 1 Automotive’s health benefits. Sources might include HR magazines or industry reports. Company News Outlets: Search for news articles from reputable business news websites that might cover recent changes or updates to health benefits. Healthcare-Related Terms and Acronyms Look for common healthcare-related terms like PPO (Preferred Provider Organization), HMO (Health Maintenance Organization), FSA (Flexible Spending Account), and HSA (Health Savings Account). Identify any specific acronyms or terminology Group 1 Automotive uses for their benefits. Recent Employee Healthcare News Find any recent news or updates affecting employee health benefits. This could include changes to coverage, new benefits introduced, or any notable issues affecting employees' access to healthcare.