Addressing the potential risks of extended-term care expenses may be one of the biggest financial challenges for Qualcomm employees who are developing a retirement strategy.
Seven in ten Qualcomm 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.
Qualcomm 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 Qualcomm's 401(k) Savings Plan?
Qualcomm's 401(k) Savings Plan is a retirement savings plan that allows employees to save for retirement through pre-tax contributions, with the option for after-tax contributions as well.
How does Qualcomm match employee contributions to the 401(k) plan?
Qualcomm offers a matching contribution to the 401(k) plan, typically matching a percentage of the employee's contributions, up to a specified limit.
When can Qualcomm employees enroll in the 401(k) Savings Plan?
Qualcomm employees can enroll in the 401(k) Savings Plan during their initial onboarding period or during the annual open enrollment period.
What investment options are available in Qualcomm's 401(k) Savings Plan?
Qualcomm's 401(k) Savings Plan provides a variety of investment options, including mutual funds, target-date funds, and company stock.
Can Qualcomm employees take loans against their 401(k) savings?
Yes, Qualcomm allows employees to take loans against their 401(k) savings, subject to specific terms and conditions outlined in the plan.
What happens to Qualcomm employees' 401(k) savings if they leave the company?
If Qualcomm employees leave the company, they have several options for their 401(k) savings, including rolling over the balance to another retirement account or cashing out.
Does Qualcomm offer financial counseling for employees regarding their 401(k) plan?
Yes, Qualcomm provides access to financial counseling services to help employees make informed decisions about their 401(k) savings and investments.
Are there any fees associated with Qualcomm's 401(k) Savings Plan?
Qualcomm's 401(k) Savings Plan may have certain administrative fees, which are disclosed in the plan documents provided to employees.
How can Qualcomm employees change their 401(k) contribution amount?
Qualcomm employees can change their 401(k) contribution amount by accessing the employee benefits portal or contacting the HR department for assistance.
Is there a vesting schedule for Qualcomm's matching contributions in the 401(k) plan?
Yes, Qualcomm has a vesting schedule for its matching contributions, meaning employees must work for the company for a certain period before they fully own those contributions.