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Clorox 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 Clorox employees who are developing a retirement strategy.

Seven in ten Clorox 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.

Clorox 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.

GenWorth.com, 2022

ACL.gov, 2022

What is the Clorox 401(k) plan?

The Clorox 401(k) plan is a retirement savings plan that allows employees to save a portion of their salary on a tax-deferred basis.

How can I enroll in the Clorox 401(k) plan?

Employees can enroll in the Clorox 401(k) plan by accessing the benefits portal or contacting the HR department for guidance on the enrollment process.

What is the employer match for the Clorox 401(k) plan?

Clorox offers a competitive employer match for contributions made to the 401(k) plan, which can significantly enhance your retirement savings.

At what age can I start contributing to the Clorox 401(k) plan?

Employees can start contributing to the Clorox 401(k) plan as soon as they are eligible, typically upon hire or after a specified waiting period.

How much can I contribute to the Clorox 401(k) plan each year?

The contribution limits for the Clorox 401(k) plan are set according to IRS guidelines, which may change annually. Employees should check the latest limits for the current year.

Does Clorox offer a Roth 401(k) option?

Yes, Clorox provides a Roth 401(k) option, allowing employees to make after-tax contributions to their retirement savings.

Can I take a loan from my Clorox 401(k) plan?

Yes, Clorox allows employees to take loans from their 401(k) accounts under certain conditions, subject to plan rules.

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

The Clorox 401(k) plan offers a range of investment options, including mutual funds and target-date funds, allowing employees to choose based on their risk tolerance.

How often can I change my contributions to the Clorox 401(k) plan?

Employees can change their contribution amounts to the Clorox 401(k) plan at any time, subject to the plan’s specific guidelines.

What happens to my Clorox 401(k) if I leave the company?

If you leave Clorox, you have several options for your 401(k), including rolling it over to another retirement account, cashing it out, or leaving it in the Clorox 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.

Clorox announced a restructuring plan involving a 10% reduction in its workforce to streamline operations and reduce costs. The company also updated its pension plan to freeze accruals for employees hired after 2024 and is adjusting 401(k) matching contributions.