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Huntsman 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 Huntsman employees who are developing a retirement strategy.

Seven in ten Huntsman 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.

Huntsman 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 Huntsman 401(k) Savings Plan?

The Huntsman 401(k) Savings Plan is a retirement savings plan that allows employees of Huntsman to save a portion of their paycheck before taxes are taken out.

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

Employees can enroll in the Huntsman 401(k) Savings Plan by visiting the company's benefits portal and completing the enrollment process online.

What is the employer match for the Huntsman 401(k) Savings Plan?

Huntsman offers a competitive employer match for contributions made to the 401(k) Savings Plan, which helps employees maximize their retirement savings.

At what age can I start contributing to the Huntsman 401(k) Savings Plan?

Employees can start contributing to the Huntsman 401(k) Savings Plan as soon as they are eligible, typically upon their date of hire.

What types of contributions can I make to the Huntsman 401(k) Savings Plan?

Huntsman allows employees to make pre-tax contributions, Roth (after-tax) contributions, and catch-up contributions if they are age 50 or older.

How often can I change my contribution percentage for the Huntsman 401(k) Savings Plan?

Employees can change their contribution percentage for the Huntsman 401(k) Savings Plan at any time, typically through the benefits portal.

Does Huntsman offer investment options within the 401(k) Savings Plan?

Yes, the Huntsman 401(k) Savings Plan offers a variety of investment options, including mutual funds, stocks, and bonds, to help employees grow their savings.

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

If you leave Huntsman, you have several options for your 401(k) Savings Plan, including rolling it over to an IRA or a new employer's plan, or cashing it out.

Can I take a loan against my Huntsman 401(k) Savings Plan?

Yes, Huntsman allows employees to take loans against their 401(k) Savings Plan, subject to certain terms and conditions.

Are there penalties for early withdrawal from the Huntsman 401(k) Savings Plan?

Yes, early withdrawals from the Huntsman 401(k) Savings Plan may incur penalties and taxes unless specific conditions are met.

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

“Huntsman Pension Plan.” Years of Service: Employees generally need to have at least 5 years of service to be vested in the plan. Age Qualification: Employees typically need to reach the age of 55 to begin receiving benefits, though specific conditions may apply. Pension Formula: The pension formula often depends on a combination of years of service and final average salary. Specific details are outlined in the plan documents. 401(k) Plan Name: The 401(k) plan is known as the “Huntsman 401(k) Plan.” Eligibility: Employees are eligible to participate in the 401(k) plan once they complete 30 days of service. Plan Features: Includes employer matching contributions up to a certain percentage of employee contributions, and a range of investment options.

Restructuring and Layoffs: In early 2024, Huntsman Corporation announced a restructuring initiative aimed at streamlining operations and improving efficiency. This included layoffs primarily in their manufacturing and administrative divisions. The company cited ongoing economic uncertainty and a need to adapt to shifting market demands as reasons for these changes. Addressing this news is crucial due to the current economic volatility and its impact on employment and corporate strategies. Understanding these shifts can help employees and investors navigate the uncertain landscape and make informed decisions.

Huntsman Corporation offered stock options and RSUs as part of their equity compensation plan. Stock options are typically granted to executives and key employees, while RSUs are often given to senior management and other key contributors.

Healthcare Benefits Overview: Huntsman provides a comprehensive benefits package, including medical, dental, and vision insurance. Their plans include options for preventive care, prescription drug coverage, and access to various healthcare networks. Healthcare Terms and Acronyms: HDHP: High Deductible Health Plan HSA: Health Savings Account FSA: Flexible Spending Account EAP: Employee Assistance Program