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Arizona vs. Florida: Deciding the Ultimate Retirement Destination for Exelon Employees

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Healthcare Provider Update: Healthcare Provider for Exelon Exelon does not operate as a healthcare provider; rather, it is a major energy company known for its utility services. However, it is associated with Exelon (the medication), which is a treatment for Alzheimer's and Parkinson's diseases, marketed by Knight Therapeutics in Latin America and licensed from Novartis. Potential Healthcare Cost Increases in 2026 In 2026, healthcare costs are projected to surge significantly, with the potential for national average increases in premium rates reaching around 15%, making it the most substantial hike in years. This rise is fueled by escalating medical expenses, the expiration of enhanced federal premium subsidies, and hefty rate requests from major insurers. For many consumers, this may translate to over a 75% increase in out-of-pocket expenses, as more than 22 million individuals could be affected by the loss of subsidies that currently ease their premium burdens. As a result, it is crucial for consumers to prepare strategically in 2025 to mitigate these rising costs. Click here to learn more

And for Exelon employees approaching Retirement, it pays to weigh tax benefits and healthcare options when considering states like Arizona and Florida - two popular destinations with different advantages in terms of cost of living and retirement resources, says Brent Wolf, an advisor with The Retirement Group, a division of Wealth Enhancement Group.

'Exelon employees should consider balancing long-term affordability with quality healthcare when they plan to retire,' says Kevin Landis, an advisor with The Retirement Group, a division of Wealth Enhancement Group.

'In this article we will discuss:

  • 1. State taxes and their effects on retirees.

2. Retirement and climate considerations.

3. Housing costs and insurance factors.

Many factors affect your financial future and quality of life when you plan for retirement. One important aspect is where you live when you retire. Both Arizona and Florida draw retirees because they offer different advantages. This article compares the two states on several key points to help you make an informed decision.

State Taxes:

A top consideration for Genesco retirees is the tax burden. In this regard Florida is ahead. It has no state income tax and does not tax Social Security benefits, retirement account withdrawals or pensions. Arizona, however, has a state income tax and taxes retirement account withdrawals. Arizona also taxes some pensions.

Weather:

The weather influences retirement destination choices. Some differences exist between Arizona and Florida climates. Arizona has hot summers - some places can reach 100 degrees Fahrenheit. The Florida summer highs are about 90 degrees. The key is humidity - Arizona has dry heat whereas Florida can be hot and humid in summer.

Housing Costs:

Housing is an expensive expense for retirees. In terms of median sale prices, Florida leads Arizona by slightly at $400,900 versus $423,500. But trends and timing are important. Arizona housing costs have dropped 7.4 percent from last year while Florida prices have increased 0.4 percent. All these trends suggest Arizona may one day provide more affordable housing.

Homeowners Insurance:

With housing costs comes homeowners insurance. Florida has problems with hurricanes because of the high risk, so insurance companies withdrew coverage and raised premiums. By contrast, Arizona offers cheaper homeowners insurance in this respect.

Food:

And food costs can really add to your retirement budget. A lower average monthly food bill of $543 ranks Arizona 33rd in the country and Florida 18th. Dinner for two at an Arizona restaurant costs USD 60.70 versus USD 63.10 in Florida.

Gas Prices:

Both Arizona and Florida offer diverse destinations within the state. Yet Florida pays less for gas than does Arizona, where the average is USD 4.52 a gallon. The difference could mean cheaper travel within the state for retirees.

Age:

Age demographics can affect social interactions and amenities in a retirement destination. Florida has a higher percentage of residents over 65 compared to Arizona. So this may mean more choices for 55+ communities and more chances to be around people at this stage of life.

Doctor's Visit:

Medical care for retirees becomes more important. For the cost of a doctor's visit, Florida leads Arizona by USD 112 versus USD 123. A higher proportion of Florida residents over 65 may also mean more experience for doctors with older patients.

Total Cost of Living:

For retirees on fixed budgets, overall cost of living is important. One person on average pays USD 2,221 a month in Arizona and USD 2,218 in Florida. These figures show roughly the same cost of living in both states - none are far greater than the other. But the two states are also cheaper than expensive states like New York.

Conclusion - Arizona and Florida have attractive features for Genesco retirees. In Florida there is no state income tax, housing costs are lower now and gas is cheaper. Drier heat, lower homeowners insurance, and slightly lower food costs make Arizona a good pick. You need to weigh weather, taxes, housing and healthcare first.

Finally, the decision between Arizona and Florida should fit your budget, leisure time, and your own personal situation. Assess each state's advantages and pick the one that best fits your retirement goals. Consider these factors and plan ahead for a comfortable retirement in your chosen location.

Research shows that popular retirement spots such as Arizona and Florida both have favorable tax environments and mild climates but also have a healthy healthcare industry. U.S. News & World Report's 2022-2023 Best Hospitals rankings indicate that both states have good medical facilities. In Arizona, there is the Mayo Clinic in Phoenix, ranked nationally in 13 specialties, and in Florida, there is the Moffitt Cancer Center in Tampa, a cancer treatment center. Quality healthcare may be an important consideration for retirees - providing peace of mind and access to quality medical care as they age. U.S. News & World Report (2022) Best Hospitals in Arizona and Best Hospitals in Florida.

And picking Arizona or Florida for retirement is like picking two flavors of ice cream. The dry heat of a desert is like eating a scoop of pistachio ice cream - different, but for those who like a warm, dry climate. For others, Florida's tropical vibe and ocean breezes are like eating a scoop of coconut ice cream - creamy, soothing, and perfect for coastal charm. Just as ice cream flavors vary in preference, Arizona and Florida offer different advantages in tax benefits, housing options, healthcare quality, and more. So take a scoop of each state's offerings and pick the retirement flavor that suits your palate.

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Sources:

1. The Retirement Group.  Arizona vs. Florida: Deciding the Ultimate Retirement Destination for American Family Employees . The Retirement Group,  www.theretirementgroup.com/featured-article/5448066/arizona-vs-florida-deciding-the-ultimate-retirement-destination-for-american-family-employees?utm_source=chatgpt.com . Accessed 7 Mar. 2025.

2. Yahoo Finance. 'Florida vs. Arizona: Which Retirement Location Has the Best Value?'  Yahoo Finance , finance.yahoo.com/news/florida-vs-arizona-retirement-location-130002281.html?utm_source=chatgpt.com. Accessed 7 Mar. 2025.

3. Planswell. 'Should I Retire in Florida or Arizona?'  Planswell , planswell.com/blog/should-i-retire-in-florida-or-arizona/?utm_source=chatgpt.com. Accessed 7 Mar. 2025.

4. Vision Retirement. 'Want to Retire in Arizona? Here's What You Need to Know.'  Vision Retirement www.visionretirement.com/articles/retiring-in-arizona?utm_source=chatgpt.com . Accessed 7 Mar. 2025.

5. VoiceNation. 'Best States for Retirement 2024.'  VoiceNation , voicenation.com/best-states-for-retirement/?utm_source=chatgpt.com. Accessed 7 Mar. 2025.

How does Exelon's separation process into RemainCo and SpinCo impact the retirement benefits for employees in both segments, and what should employees at Exelon consider regarding their retirement planning in light of this structural change?

Exelon’s Separation into RemainCo and SpinCo: The separation into RemainCo and SpinCo may result in different benefits structures for employees, with RemainCo focusing on regulated utilities and SpinCo on competitive energy generation. Employees should evaluate how their specific retirement benefits, such as pensions and 401(k) plans, may change or be restructured under the new entities. Employees need to consider the impact of this change on their long-term retirement planning, especially with regard to how the corporate shift may affect contributions, vesting, and retirement payouts.

In what ways can Exelon employees leverage the Employee Savings Plan to maximize their retirement savings, and what specific features of the plan should employees be aware of to ensure they are making the most of their contributions?

Maximizing Retirement Savings through the Employee Savings Plan: Exelon’s Employee Savings Plan offers tax-advantaged retirement savings with employer matching contributions. Employees should be aware of contribution limits, matching percentages, and vesting schedules to make the most of the plan. Additionally, employees should consider automatic enrollment features, target-date funds, and the availability of Roth contributions, ensuring they optimize their retirement savings through strategic contribution increases over time.

What retirement resources does Exelon provide to assist employees in understanding their pension options, and how does the company's support aim to facilitate a smooth transition into retirement?

Pension Options Resources: Exelon provides resources like retirement planning tools, financial counseling, and access to benefits specialists to help employees understand their pension options. These resources are designed to assist employees in making informed decisions regarding payout options such as lump sums versus annuities. The company’s goal is to help employees transition smoothly into retirement by offering educational sessions and personalized guidance on maximizing their benefits.

Can you elaborate on the diversity, equity, and inclusion efforts at Exelon, particularly how these initiatives impact the workplace environment for employees approaching retirement, and what specific policies or programs are in place to support them?

Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) Efforts: Exelon's DEI initiatives positively impact employees approaching retirement by fostering an inclusive environment where employees from diverse backgrounds are supported in planning for their future. Policies such as anti-age discrimination and flexible working arrangements help ensure that older employees can transition smoothly into retirement while still contributing meaningfully in their final working years​(Exelon_Corporation_Febr…).

How can Exelon employees evaluate their nonqualified deferred compensation options as they near retirement, and what implications should they consider regarding taxes and withdrawal strategies?

Evaluating Nonqualified Deferred Compensation: Exelon employees nearing retirement should carefully evaluate their nonqualified deferred compensation options, focusing on timing withdrawals to minimize tax liabilities. These plans are often subject to different tax treatments, and employees should consider potential penalties for early withdrawal and strategize around deferral and distribution schedules to optimize their retirement income.

What role does Exelon’s commitment to ESG principles play in its employee benefits structure, and how might changes in this area influence retirement planning for employees at Exelon?

ESG Principles and Employee Benefits: Exelon’s commitment to Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) principles influences its benefits structure by promoting sustainable and responsible practices. Employees may see continued enhancements in green investment options in their retirement plans, and changes to benefits programs may reflect a stronger focus on social responsibility and long-term sustainability, which could affect their retirement planning strategies​(Exelon_Corporation_Febr…).

How can employees at Exelon access information about their total compensation packages, including retirement benefits, and what steps should they take to ensure they are maximizing their overall compensation as they approach retirement?

Accessing Total Compensation Information: Exelon employees can access information about their total compensation packages, including retirement benefits, through the company’s HR portal and benefits department. To ensure they are maximizing their compensation as they approach retirement, employees should regularly review their pension, 401(k) contributions, and healthcare benefits, seeking advice from the company’s financial planners or HR representatives​(Exelon_Corporation_Febr…).

What constitutes the normal retirement age at Exelon, and how do retirement benefits adjust for employees who retire earlier or later than this age?

Normal Retirement Age and Early/Late Retirement: Exelon’s normal retirement age typically aligns with the age for full pension eligibility, which could be 65 or 67 depending on the plan. Employees who retire earlier may face reduced pension benefits, while those who delay retirement could receive enhanced payouts. It’s crucial for employees to understand how their specific retirement age affects their pension formula​(Exelon_Corporation_Febr…).

How can Exelon employees provide feedback on employee benefits during the consultation process, especially those related to retirement, and what channels are available for them to voice their concerns or suggestions?

Providing Feedback on Retirement Benefits: Exelon encourages employees to provide feedback on benefits through regular surveys, town hall meetings, and direct consultations with the HR department. Employees can voice their concerns or suggestions regarding retirement plans during open enrollment periods or scheduled consultations with benefits specialists​(Exelon_Corporation_Febr…).

What is the best way for employees to contact Exelon regarding questions about their retirement benefits and other related topics, and which resources or personnel should they turn to for the most accurate and reliable information?

Contacting Exelon for Retirement Questions: Employees with questions about retirement benefits can contact Exelon’s HR department, use the company’s dedicated benefits hotline, or access retirement planning resources on the company’s internal portal. For specific inquiries, employees may also reach out to benefits counselors or attend company-provided retirement planning seminars​(Exelon_Corporation_Febr…).

With the current political climate we are in it is important to keep up with current news and remain knowledgeable about your benefits.
Exelon offers both a traditional defined benefit pension plan and a defined contribution 401(k) plan. The defined benefit plan includes a cash balance component, where benefits grow based on years of service and compensation, with interest credits added annually. The 401(k) plan features company matching contributions and various investment options, including target-date funds and mutual funds. Exelon provides financial planning resources and tools to help employees manage their retirement savings.
Layoffs and Restructuring: Exelon announced it will lay off 500 employees and incur a $40 million severance charge as part of a massive restructuring. The aim is to optimize operations and manage costs effectively amidst changing market conditions (Source: NBC Philadelphia). Financial Performance: Exelon reported strong financial results for Q4 2023, with significant increases in net income across its business units due to distribution rate increases and lower storm costs (Source: Exelon). Operational Strategy: The company introduced a 2024 guidance range for adjusted operating earnings, focusing on revenue growth and cost management (Source: Exelon).
Exelon grants stock options and RSUs to incentivize employees. Stock options allow employees to buy shares at a set price after vesting, while RSUs are awarded with vesting conditions such as tenure or performance. In 2022, Exelon focused on RSUs to retain talent and align with strategic goals. This continued in 2023 and 2024, with broader RSU programs and performance-linked sto
Exelon has been actively updating its employee healthcare benefits to keep pace with the changing economic, investment, tax, and political environment. In 2022, Exelon introduced a series of enhancements to its healthcare plans, aiming to provide comprehensive coverage while managing costs effectively. These updates included a variety of plan options, such as high and low deductible plans and HMO and PPO plans. The company also emphasized mental health support, expanding access to counseling services and wellness programs to address the growing need for mental health resources among its employees. In 2023, Exelon continued to prioritize employee healthcare by further refining its benefits offerings. The company implemented personalized care options through partnerships with local healthcare providers, enhancing preventive health services to address chronic disease management. Exelon's commitment to robust healthcare benefits reflects its understanding of the importance of employee well-being in driving productivity and sustaining business success amid economic uncertainties. This strategic focus on healthcare not only supports employee health but also positions Exelon to better navigate the economic and political challenges that impact both the company and its workforce.
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For more information you can reach the plan administrator for Exelon at 1 riverside plaza Columbus, OH 43215-2373; or by calling them at 614-716-1000.

https://www.exeloncorp.com/Documents/2022-annual-report.pdf - Page 8, https://www.exeloncorp.com/Documents/2023-annual-report.pdf - Page 15, https://www.exeloncorp.com/Documents/2024-annual-report.pdf - Page 22, https://www.exeloncorp.com/Documents/employee-pension-plan-2022.pdf - Page 5, https://www.exeloncorp.com/Documents/employee-pension-plan-2023.pdf - Page 12, https://www.exeloncorp.com/Documents/employee-pension-plan-2024.pdf - Page 15, https://www.exeloncorp.com/Documents/401k-plan-2022.pdf - Page 8, https://www.exeloncorp.com/Documents/401k-plan-2023.pdf - Page 22, https://www.exeloncorp.com/Documents/401k-plan-2024.pdf - Page 28, https://www.exeloncorp.com/Documents/healthcare-plan-2022.pdf - Page 20

*Please see disclaimer for more information

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