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Peabody Energy 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 Peabody Energy employees who are developing a retirement strategy.

Seven in ten Peabody Energy 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.

Peabody Energy 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.

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What is the primary purpose of Peabody Energy's 401(k) Savings Plan?

The primary purpose of Peabody Energy's 401(k) Savings Plan is to help employees save for retirement by allowing them to contribute a portion of their salary on a pre-tax basis.

How can employees at Peabody Energy enroll in the 401(k) Savings Plan?

Employees at Peabody Energy can enroll in the 401(k) Savings Plan by completing the enrollment process through the company's benefits portal or by contacting the HR department for assistance.

Does Peabody Energy offer a company match for 401(k) contributions?

Yes, Peabody Energy offers a company match for 401(k) contributions, which helps employees increase their retirement savings.

What is the maximum contribution limit for Peabody Energy's 401(k) Savings Plan?

The maximum contribution limit for Peabody Energy's 401(k) Savings Plan is determined by the IRS and may change annually; employees should check the current limits for the specific year.

Can employees at Peabody Energy change their contribution percentage at any time?

Yes, employees at Peabody Energy can change their contribution percentage at any time, typically through the benefits portal or by contacting HR.

What investment options are available in Peabody Energy's 401(k) Savings Plan?

Peabody Energy's 401(k) Savings Plan offers a variety of investment options, including mutual funds, target-date funds, and other investment vehicles to suit different risk tolerances.

Is there a vesting schedule for the company match in Peabody Energy's 401(k) Savings Plan?

Yes, Peabody Energy has a vesting schedule for the company match, meaning employees must work for the company for a certain period before they fully own the matched contributions.

How can employees at Peabody Energy access their 401(k) account information?

Employees at Peabody Energy can access their 401(k) account information through the company's benefits portal or by contacting the plan administrator.

What happens to Peabody Energy's 401(k) Savings Plan if an employee leaves the company?

If an employee leaves Peabody Energy, they have several options for their 401(k) savings, including rolling it over to another retirement account, cashing it out, or leaving it in the Peabody Energy plan if allowed.

Are there loans available against the 401(k) balance at Peabody Energy?

Yes, Peabody Energy's 401(k) Savings Plan may allow employees to take loans against their account balance, subject to specific terms and conditions.

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

Peabody Energy announced significant restructuring plans in 2024, including job cuts and the closure of some mining operations. This decision aims to streamline operations and reduce costs amid fluctuating coal prices.