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Albemarle Employees: Navigating the Complexities of Extended Care Costs in Retirement

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Addressing the potential risks of extended-term care expenses may be one of the biggest financial challenges for Albemarle employees who are developing a retirement strategy.

Seven in ten Albemarle employees over age 65 can expect to need extended care services at some point in their lives. So understanding the various types of extended care services – and what those services may cost – is critical as you consider your retirement approach.

What Is Extended Care?

Extended care is not a single activity. It refers to a variety of medical and non–medical services needed by those who have a chronic illness or disability – most commonly associated with aging.

Extended care can include everything from assistance with activities of daily living – help dressing, bathing, using the bathroom, or even driving to the store – to more intensive therapeutic and medical care requiring the services of skilled medical personnel.

Extended care may be provided at home, at a community center, in an assisted living facility, or in a skilled nursing home. And extended care is not exclusively for the elderly; it is possible to need extended care at any age.

How Much Does Extended Care Cost?

Extended care costs vary state by state and region by region. The 2021 national average for care in a skilled care facility (single occupancy in a nursing home) was $108,405 a year. The national average for care in an assisted living center (single occupancy) was $54,000 a year. Home health aides cost a median of $27 per hour, but that rate may increase when a licensed nurse is required.

What Are the Payment Choices?

Often, extended care is provided by family and friends. Providing care can be a burden, however, and the need for assistance tends to increase with age.

Albemarle employees who would rather not burden their family and friends have two main choices for covering the cost of extended care: they can choose to self-insure or they can purchase extended care insurance.

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Many self-insure by default – simply because they haven't made other arrangements. Those who self-insure may depend on personal savings and investments to fund any extended care needs. The other approach is to consider purchasing extended care insurance, which can cover all levels of care, from skilled care to custodial care to in-home assistance.

When it comes to addressing your extended care needs, many look to select a strategy that may help them protect assets, preserve dignity, and maintain independence. If those concepts are important to you, consider your approach to extended care.

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ACL.gov, 2022

What is the primary purpose of Albemarle's 401(k) Savings Plan?

The primary purpose of Albemarle's 401(k) Savings Plan is to help employees save for retirement by providing a tax-advantaged way to invest their earnings.

How can I enroll in Albemarle's 401(k) Savings Plan?

Employees can enroll in Albemarle's 401(k) Savings Plan by completing the online enrollment process through the company's benefits portal or by contacting the HR department for assistance.

Does Albemarle offer a company match for contributions to the 401(k) Savings Plan?

Yes, Albemarle offers a company match for contributions to the 401(k) Savings Plan, which enhances employees' savings for retirement.

What are the eligibility requirements to participate in Albemarle's 401(k) Savings Plan?

Generally, all full-time employees of Albemarle are eligible to participate in the 401(k) Savings Plan after completing a specified waiting period.

How much can I contribute to Albemarle's 401(k) Savings Plan each year?

Employees can contribute up to the IRS annual limit set for 401(k) plans, which may change each year. Albemarle will provide updates on the current limits.

Can I change my contribution amount to Albemarle's 401(k) Savings Plan at any time?

Yes, employees can change their contribution amounts to Albemarle's 401(k) Savings Plan at any time, typically through the benefits portal.

What investment options are available in Albemarle's 401(k) Savings Plan?

Albemarle's 401(k) Savings Plan offers a variety of investment options, including mutual funds, target-date funds, and other investment vehicles to suit different risk tolerances.

When can I start withdrawing funds from Albemarle's 401(k) Savings Plan?

Employees can typically begin withdrawing funds from Albemarle's 401(k) Savings Plan after reaching age 59½, or under certain circumstances such as financial hardship.

What happens to my 401(k) Savings Plan if I leave Albemarle?

If you leave Albemarle, you will have several options for your 401(k) Savings Plan, including rolling it over to another retirement account, leaving it with Albemarle, or cashing it out (subject to taxes and penalties).

Does Albemarle offer a loan option against my 401(k) Savings Plan?

Yes, Albemarle allows employees to take loans against their 401(k) Savings Plan balance under certain conditions and guidelines.

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

Albemarle recently announced a restructuring plan aimed at streamlining operations and improving efficiency. This includes a reduction in workforce and changes to benefit programs.

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For more information you can reach the plan administrator for Albemarle at 4250 Congress Street Suite 900 Charlotte, NC 28209; or by calling them at (980) 299-5700.