New Update: Healthcare Costs Increasing by Over 60% in Some States. Will you be impacted?

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

Healthcare Provider Update: Hillenbrand Healthcare Provider Overview: Hillenbrand, Inc., a global diversified industrial company headquartered in Batesville, Indiana, primarily functions in markets related to advanced funeral and cremation equipment, medical devices, and industrial process solutions. As of recent data, Hillenbrand does not specifically provide healthcare services or insurance directly but operates through significant subsidiaries in the healthcare sector, such as the medical equipment arm of its subsidiary, Batesville. Potential Healthcare Cost Increases in 2026: In 2026, healthcare costs are projected to surge significantly, primarily due to the looming expiration of enhanced federal premium subsidies under the Affordable Care Act (ACA). This situation could lead to a rise in out-of-pocket premiums by over 75% for nearly 22 million enrollees, pushing some states to see increases exceeding 60%. Factors such as escalating medical expenses and substantial insurer rate hikes are contributing to this unprecedented increase. This perfect storm of conditions may leave many individuals priced out of essential healthcare coverage, negatively impacting their financial stability and access to necessary medical services. Click here to learn more

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

Seven in ten Hillenbrand 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.

Hillenbrand 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 type of retirement savings plan does Hillenbrand offer to its employees?

Hillenbrand offers a 401(k) retirement savings plan to its employees.

How can employees at Hillenbrand enroll in the 401(k) plan?

Employees at Hillenbrand can enroll in the 401(k) plan through the company’s HR portal during the open enrollment period or upon hire.

Does Hillenbrand match employee contributions to the 401(k) plan?

Yes, Hillenbrand offers a matching contribution to employee 401(k) plan contributions, subject to certain limits.

What is the maximum contribution limit for Hillenbrand's 401(k) plan?

The maximum contribution limit for Hillenbrand's 401(k) plan aligns with IRS guidelines, which are updated annually.

Can employees at Hillenbrand take loans against their 401(k) savings?

Yes, Hillenbrand allows employees to take loans against their 401(k) savings, subject to specific terms and conditions.

What investment options are available in Hillenbrand's 401(k) plan?

Hillenbrand's 401(k) plan offers a variety of investment options, including mutual funds and target-date funds.

How often can employees at Hillenbrand change their 401(k) contribution amounts?

Employees at Hillenbrand can change their 401(k) contribution amounts during open enrollment or after a qualifying life event.

Does Hillenbrand provide financial education resources for employees regarding their 401(k)?

Yes, Hillenbrand provides financial education resources and tools to help employees make informed decisions about their 401(k) savings.

What happens to my 401(k) plan if I leave Hillenbrand?

If you leave Hillenbrand, you can choose to roll over your 401(k) balance to another qualified plan, cash out, or leave it in the Hillenbrand plan if eligible.

Are there any fees associated with Hillenbrand's 401(k) plan?

Yes, there may be fees associated with managing the 401(k) plan, which are disclosed in the plan documents provided by Hillenbrand.

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 Pension Plan: Hillenbrand does not appear to offer a traditional defined benefit pension plan. Instead, the company focuses on a 401(k) plan as the primary retirement benefit for employees. Qualifications (Years of Service and Age): Since Hillenbrand primarily offers a 401(k) plan, detailed qualifications for a traditional pension plan are not applicable. For the 401(k) plan, there are typically vesting schedules and eligibility requirements, but specifics on years of service and age requirements are usually detailed in the plan documentation provided by the company. 401(k) Plan Overview: Name of 401(k) Plan: Hillenbrand 401(k) Plan Qualifications (Years of Service and Age): Employees generally become eligible for the Hillenbrand 401(k) Plan upon reaching a certain period of service, which is often outlined in the plan document. Eligibility criteria typically include completing a probationary period, if applicable, and reaching a minimum age (usually 21). Plan Details: Contributions to the Hillenbrand 401(k) Plan are typically made via payroll deductions. The company may offer matching contributions up to a specified percentage

Restructuring and Layoffs: In 2023, Hillenbrand undertook significant restructuring efforts to streamline its operations and improve efficiency. The company announced a reduction in its workforce as part of these efforts, impacting various departments. This move was aimed at adapting to changing market conditions and enhancing overall performance. It's crucial to follow these developments due to the current economic climate, which may influence investment decisions, tax implications, and political factors that could affect the company's future.

Hillenbrand provided stock options and RSUs as part of their compensation packages for employees in 2022. Employees eligible for these incentives generally include executives and key personnel. Hillenbrand typically issues stock options and RSUs to attract and retain top talent and align employee interests with shareholder interests. Hillenbrand’s 2022 annual report (Page 35) details these incentives and eligibility criteria.

Hillenbrand Benefits Overview: The official Hillenbrand website provides a comprehensive overview of their employee benefits. The company typically offers a range of health benefits including medical, dental, and vision insurance. Specific details for 2022-2024 may include plans such as High Deductible Health Plans (HDHPs) with Health Savings Accounts (HSAs) and traditional PPO plans. Healthcare Terms: Common acronyms and terms include HDHP (High Deductible Health Plan), PPO (Preferred Provider Organization), HSA (Health Savings Account), and FSA (Flexible Spending Account