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

Healthcare Provider Update: Healthcare Provider for Paychex Paychex partners with various healthcare providers to offer employee health insurance options, including plans through the Affordable Care Act (ACA) marketplace and group health insurance solutions. Their offerings typically feature comprehensive coverage options to align with the diverse needs of their employees. Potential Healthcare Cost Increases in 2026 In 2026, Paychex employees may face significant healthcare cost increases as ACA marketplace premiums are projected to rise sharply, with some insurers estimating hikes exceeding 60%. This surge results from a combination of expiring federal premium subsidies, escalating medical costs, and aggressive rate increases from major insurers. With projections indicating that over 22 million marketplace enrollees could experience average out-of-pocket premium increases of 75% or more, it's crucial for Paychex workers to strategize their healthcare choices to mitigate these potential financial pressures. Click here to learn more

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

Seven in ten Paychex 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.

Paychex 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 plan does Paychex offer to its employees?

Paychex offers a 401(k) retirement plan to its employees to help them save for retirement.

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

Employees at Paychex can enroll in the 401(k) plan through the company’s HR portal or by contacting the HR department for assistance.

Does Paychex offer any matching contributions for the 401(k) plan?

Yes, Paychex provides a matching contribution for employees who participate in the 401(k) plan, subject to certain terms and conditions.

What is the maximum contribution limit for the Paychex 401(k) plan?

The maximum contribution limit for the Paychex 401(k) plan is determined by the IRS and may change annually; employees should check the latest guidelines for specifics.

Are there any fees associated with the Paychex 401(k) plan?

Yes, like many retirement plans, the Paychex 401(k) plan may have administrative fees, which are disclosed in the plan documents provided to employees.

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

Yes, Paychex allows employees to take loans against their 401(k) savings, subject to the plan's rules and limits.

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

The Paychex 401(k) plan offers a variety of investment options, including mutual funds, stocks, and bonds, allowing employees to diversify their portfolios.

How often can employees change their contribution amounts in the Paychex 401(k) plan?

Employees at Paychex can typically change their contribution amounts at any time, but changes may take effect in the next payroll cycle.

What happens to the Paychex 401(k) plan if an employee leaves the company?

If an employee leaves Paychex, they can roll over their 401(k) balance to another retirement account, cash out, or leave the funds in the Paychex plan, depending on the plan’s rules.

Is there a vesting schedule for the Paychex 401(k) plan?

Yes, Paychex has a vesting schedule for employer contributions, which means employees must work for a certain period to fully own those contributions.