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

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

Seven in ten Comcast 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.

Comcast 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 Comcast 401(k) Savings Plan?

The Comcast 401(k) Savings Plan is a retirement savings plan that allows employees to save for their future by contributing a portion of their salary on a pre-tax or after-tax (Roth) basis.

How can I enroll in the Comcast 401(k) Savings Plan?

Employees can enroll in the Comcast 401(k) Savings Plan through the company’s benefits portal during the open enrollment period or within 30 days of their hire date.

What is the maximum contribution limit for the Comcast 401(k) Savings Plan?

For 2023, the maximum employee contribution limit to the Comcast 401(k) Savings Plan is $22,500, with an additional catch-up contribution of $7,500 for employees aged 50 and over.

Does Comcast offer any matching contributions to the 401(k) Savings Plan?

Yes, Comcast offers a matching contribution to the 401(k) Savings Plan, matching 100% of the first 4% of employee contributions.

When can I start withdrawing from my Comcast 401(k) Savings Plan?

Employees can begin withdrawing from their Comcast 401(k) Savings Plan at age 59½, or earlier in cases of financial hardship or if they leave the company.

What investment options are available in the Comcast 401(k) Savings Plan?

The Comcast 401(k) Savings Plan offers a variety of investment options, including target-date funds, index funds, and actively managed funds, allowing employees to choose based on their risk tolerance.

Can I take a loan from my Comcast 401(k) Savings Plan?

Yes, employees can take a loan from their Comcast 401(k) Savings Plan, subject to certain limits and repayment terms as outlined in the plan documents.

How can I change my contribution amount to the Comcast 401(k) Savings Plan?

Employees can change their contribution amount to the Comcast 401(k) Savings Plan through the benefits portal at any time, subject to plan rules.

Is there a vesting schedule for Comcast's matching contributions?

Yes, Comcast has a vesting schedule for matching contributions, which typically requires employees to work for a certain number of years before they fully own the matched funds.

What happens to my Comcast 401(k) Savings Plan if I leave the company?

If you leave Comcast, you can choose to roll over your 401(k) savings into another retirement account, leave the funds in the plan, or withdraw the balance, subject to taxes and penalties.

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

Comcast provides a defined contribution 401(k) plan with company matching contributions. Employees can contribute pre-tax or Roth (after-tax) dollars, and Comcast matches 100% of the first 4.5% of eligible compensation. The plan includes various investment options, such as target-date funds, mutual funds, and a self-directed brokerage account. Comcast also offers an Employee Stock Purchase Plan (ESPP) with a discount on company stock. Financial planning resources and tools are available to help employees manage their retirement savings.

Comcast is planning further layoffs in 2024, with expected severance charges as part of ongoing cost-cutting measures. The company has already implemented layoffs across various divisions, including its Sky unit, and is focusing on outsourcing to manage costs. Comcast offers comprehensive benefits, including a 401(k) plan and health benefits. Understanding these benefits is essential given the current political and economic environment.

Comcast grants RSUs that vest over a period, providing shares upon vesting. Stock options are also part of their compensation plan, allowing employees to buy shares at a set price.