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

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

Seven in ten Salesforce 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.

Salesforce 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 401(k) plan offered by Salesforce?

The 401(k) plan at Salesforce is a retirement savings plan that allows employees to save a portion of their salary on a tax-deferred basis.

Does Salesforce offer a company match for its 401(k) plan?

Yes, Salesforce offers a company match for its 401(k) contributions, helping employees maximize their retirement savings.

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

Salesforce employees can enroll in the 401(k) plan through the employee benefits portal during their onboarding or during open enrollment periods.

What are the contribution limits for Salesforce's 401(k) plan?

The contribution limits for Salesforce's 401(k) plan align with IRS guidelines, which may change annually. Employees should check the latest limits on the IRS website or through Salesforce's benefits resources.

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

Yes, Salesforce allows employees to take loans against their 401(k) savings, subject to certain terms and conditions outlined in the plan documents.

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

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

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

Salesforce employees can change their 401(k) contribution amounts at any time, subject to the plan's guidelines and payroll processing schedules.

When can Salesforce employees access their 401(k) funds?

Employees can access their 401(k) funds upon reaching retirement age, or in cases of hardship, termination of employment, or disability, following the plan's rules.

Does Salesforce provide financial education regarding its 401(k) plan?

Yes, Salesforce offers financial education resources and workshops to help employees understand their 401(k) options and make informed investment decisions.

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

Yes, there may be fees associated with managing the 401(k) plan, including administrative fees and investment management fees, which are disclosed in the plan documents.

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

Salesforce provides a defined contribution 401(k) plan with company matching contributions. Employees can contribute pre-tax or Roth (after-tax) dollars, and Salesforce matches 100% of the first 6% of eligible compensation. The plan includes various investment options such as target-date funds, mutual funds, and a self-directed brokerage account. Salesforce also offers an Employee Stock Purchase Plan (ESPP) with a discount on company stock. Financial planning resources and tools are available to help employees manage their retirement savings.

Salesforce grants RSUs that vest over several years, giving employees shares of the company. Additionally, stock options are provided, allowing employees to purchase shares at a set price.