What Mondelez International Employees Should Know About Caring for Aging Parents
Healthcare Provider Update: Healthcare Provider for Mondelez International
Mondelez International primarily utilizes Aetna as their healthcare provider for employee health insurance coverage.
Potential Healthcare Cost Increases for Mondelez International in 2026
Looking ahead to 2026, Mondelez International employees may face significant increases in healthcare costs. Factors contributing to this rise include anticipated premium hikes in the Affordable Care Act (ACA) marketplace, with some states expecting increases over 60%. Additionally, a substantial number of employers, including Mondelez, are projected to pass on more healthcare costs to employees by raising deductibles and out-of-pocket maximums. As a result, employees must prepare for the possibility of sharp out-of-pocket expenses, necessitating careful planning and awareness of benefit changes to mitigate potential financial strains.
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'Many Mondelez International 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 Mondelez International 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 Mondelez International 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. Mondelez International 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, Mondelez International 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 Mondelez International 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. Mondelez International 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 Mondelez International 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 Mondelez International 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 is the 401(k) plan offered by Mondelez International?
The 401(k) plan at Mondelez International is a retirement savings plan that allows employees to save a portion of their paycheck before taxes are taken out.
How can employees enroll in Mondelez International's 401(k) plan?
Employees can enroll in Mondelez International's 401(k) plan by accessing the employee benefits portal or contacting the HR department for guidance.
Does Mondelez International offer a company match for the 401(k) contributions?
Yes, Mondelez International offers a company match for employee contributions to the 401(k) plan, helping to boost retirement savings.
What are the eligibility requirements for Mondelez International's 401(k) plan?
To be eligible for Mondelez International's 401(k) plan, employees typically need to meet certain criteria, such as being a full-time employee and completing a specific period of service.
What investment options are available in Mondelez International's 401(k) plan?
Mondelez International's 401(k) plan offers a variety of investment options, including mutual funds, target-date funds, and company stock, allowing employees to diversify their portfolios.
Can employees take loans against their 401(k) at Mondelez International?
Yes, Mondelez International allows employees to take loans against their 401(k) balance under certain conditions, providing flexibility for financial needs.
What is the vesting schedule for Mondelez International's 401(k) plan?
Mondelez International has a vesting schedule that determines how much of the company match employees can keep if they leave the company, typically based on years of service.
How can employees change their contribution percentage to Mondelez International's 401(k) plan?
Employees can change their contribution percentage to Mondelez International's 401(k) plan by logging into the benefits portal or contacting HR for assistance.
When can employees start withdrawing from their Mondelez International 401(k) plan?
Employees can generally start withdrawing from their Mondelez International 401(k) plan without penalty at age 59½, subject to specific plan rules.
Does Mondelez International provide financial education regarding the 401(k) plan?
Yes, Mondelez International offers resources and financial education programs to help employees understand their 401(k) options and make informed decisions.
With the current political climate we are in it is important to keep up with current news and remain knowledgeable about your benefits.
Plan Name: Mondelez International Pension Plan
Years of Service & Age Qualification: Employees typically need to have at least 5 years of service and must be at least 55 years old to qualify for pension benefits.
Pension Formula: The pension benefit is calculated based on years of service and final average salary. The formula used is generally a percentage of the average salary over a specified period multiplied by the number of years of service.
Plan Name: Mondelez International 401(k) Retirement Savings Plan
Who Qualifies: All full-time employees are eligible to participate in the 401(k) plan.
401(k) Plan Details: Mondelez International offers a standard 401(k) plan with matching contributions. Employees can contribute a percentage of their salary up to the maximum allowed by law. Mondelez typically matches a portion of employee contributions.
Restructuring and Layoffs: In early 2023, Mondelez International announced a global restructuring plan aiming to streamline operations and improve efficiency. This plan included a reduction of approximately 3% of its workforce globally. The restructuring is part of the company's strategy to adapt to shifting market demands and operational challenges. It’s essential for employees and investors to stay informed about these changes due to their potential impact on job security and the company's financial health.
Benefit and Pension Changes: Mondelez has also been updating its employee benefit programs and pension plans. Recent reports indicate changes to the company's 401(k) matching contributions and modifications to retirement benefits. The adjustments are designed to enhance financial stability and align with broader industry trends. Given the current economic conditions and evolving tax regulations, understanding these changes is vital for planning personal finances and retirement strategies.
Mondelez International typically offers stock options and RSUs to its employees as part of its compensation package. In 2022, Mondelez International provided stock options and RSUs to a select group of employees, including executives and senior management. The stock options allowed employees to purchase company stock at a set price, while RSUs granted shares that vest over time. Source: Mondelez International Annual Report 2022, Page 45.
Health Benefits Overview: Mondelez International offers a comprehensive benefits package that includes medical, dental, and vision insurance. Employees can choose from various plans based on their needs.
Recent Updates: As of 2024, Mondelez International has updated their health benefits to include enhanced mental health support, expanded telemedicine options, and a focus on preventive care.
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