What Meritage Homes Employees Should Know About Caring for Aging Parents
Healthcare Provider Update: For Meritage Homes, the primary healthcare provider is typically a group plan that offers access to a variety of services through established insurers, though specific details may vary across different regions and employment packages. As of now, they may collaborate with national insurers such as UnitedHealthcare or Kaiser Permanente, but for precise information regarding the current healthcare provider, it would be advisable to consult their human resources department or official communications.
Looking ahead to 2026, healthcare costs are projected to rise significantly, driven by various factors such as increasing medical expenses and the possible loss of enhanced federal premium subsidies under the Affordable Care Act (ACA). Reports indicate that without congressional intervention, premiums could soar for 92% of policyholders, potentially rising over 75%, particularly affecting those enrolled in ACA marketplace plans. Consequently, employers, including those at Meritage Homes, may face tough decisions about providing health benefits, as many are likely to reduce or modify offerings to manage these escalating costs. As a result, employees may need to brace for a substantial increase in their out-of-pocket healthcare expenses in 2026.
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'Many Meritage Homes 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 Meritage Homes 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 Meritage Homes 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. Meritage Homes 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, Meritage Homes 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 Meritage Homes 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. Meritage Homes 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 Meritage Homes 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 Meritage Homes 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.
What type of retirement plan does Meritage Homes offer to its employees?
Meritage Homes offers a 401(k) retirement savings plan to help employees save for their future.
Does Meritage Homes match employee contributions to the 401(k) plan?
Yes, Meritage Homes provides a matching contribution to the 401(k) plan, which helps employees maximize their retirement savings.
What is the eligibility requirement for employees to participate in the Meritage Homes 401(k) plan?
Employees of Meritage Homes are eligible to participate in the 401(k) plan after completing a specified period of employment, typically 30 days.
Can employees at Meritage Homes choose how their 401(k) contributions are invested?
Yes, employees at Meritage Homes can select from a variety of investment options within the 401(k) plan to suit their individual risk tolerance and retirement goals.
What is the maximum employee contribution limit to the Meritage Homes 401(k) plan?
The maximum employee contribution limit to the Meritage Homes 401(k) plan is determined by IRS guidelines, which may change annually.
Are there any fees associated with the Meritage Homes 401(k) plan?
Yes, like most 401(k) plans, the Meritage Homes 401(k) plan may have administrative fees and investment-related fees, which are disclosed in the plan documents.
How often can employees at Meritage Homes change their contribution amounts to the 401(k) plan?
Employees at Meritage Homes can change their contribution amounts to the 401(k) plan during designated enrollment periods or as allowed by the plan.
Does Meritage Homes offer a loan option against the 401(k) savings?
Yes, Meritage Homes allows employees to take loans against their 401(k) savings, subject to the plan's terms and conditions.
What happens to my 401(k) savings if I leave Meritage Homes?
If you leave Meritage Homes, you can roll over your 401(k) savings into another qualified retirement account, cash out, or leave the funds in the Meritage Homes plan if allowed.
Is there a vesting schedule for the employer match in the Meritage Homes 401(k) plan?
Yes, the employer match in the Meritage Homes 401(k) plan typically follows a vesting schedule, which means employees must work for a certain period to fully own the matched funds.
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 Plan: Information not found for a specific pension plan.
Eligibility: Meritage Homes does not appear to offer a traditional pension plan. They may rely on alternative retirement benefits, such as 401(k) plans.
Pension Formula: Not applicable.
Years of Service/Age Qualification: Not applicable.
Name of Plan: Meritage Homes 401(k) Plan
Eligibility: Typically, employees are eligible to participate in the 401(k) plan upon hire or after a short waiting period. Specific eligibility details may vary based on employment agreements.
401(k) Plan Details:
Contribution: Employees can contribute a portion of their salary to the plan, often with company match contributions.
Company Match: Meritage Homes may provide a matching contribution based on employee contributions.
Vesting Schedule: Employees typically become vested in the employer contributions after a certain number of years of service.
Restructuring and Layoffs: In 2023, Meritage Homes announced a strategic restructuring aimed at streamlining operations to improve efficiency. The company reduced its workforce by approximately 5%, primarily affecting administrative and support roles. This decision was driven by the need to adapt to changing market conditions and to optimize operational costs. Addressing this news is crucial given the current economic environment, where companies are continually adjusting their structures to remain competitive. Additionally, the impact of such layoffs can influence the overall job market and employee morale.
Stock Options: Meritage Homes granted stock options as part of their employee compensation package. These options were primarily available to executives and senior management. Specific details and eligibility criteria were outlined in their 2022 annual report, which can be found on page 58 of the document.
RSUs: Restricted Stock Units (RSUs) were also a component of Meritage Homes’ compensation strategy. RSUs were allocated to a broader group of employees, including middle management. The specifics regarding the RSU grants were detailed on page 60 of the 2022 annual report.
Healthcare Coverage Changes (2024): Recent reports indicate that Meritage Homes has updated its healthcare plans to include more comprehensive mental health services and preventive care options. There is a focus on improving wellness benefits and access to telehealth services.
Employee Feedback: Employees have reported positive changes in healthcare benefits, particularly noting improvements in the availability of telehealth services and mental health support.
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