New Update: Healthcare Costs Increasing by Over 60% in Some States. Will you be impacted?

Preparing to Retire from Packaging Corp. of America Within Five Years? Start with This Smart Checklist

Healthcare Provider Update: Healthcare Provider for Packaging Corp. of America Packaging Corp. of America typically offers healthcare coverage through major insurers for its employees. While specific provider listings may vary by location, commonly partnered insurers include UnitedHealthcare, Anthem BlueCross BlueShield, and Cigna, among others. Potential Healthcare Cost Increases in 2026 As we look ahead to 2026, healthcare costs are projected to surge significantly, particularly within Affordable Care Act (ACA) marketplaces. With many states anticipating premium hikes of over 60%, the retrospective loss of enhanced federal premium subsidies is poised to exacerbate the financial burden, resulting in potential out-of-pocket increases exceeding 75% for nearly all marketplace enrollees. Compounding these rising costs are ongoing trends of increasing medical expenses driven by higher hospital, physician, and drug prices, alongside inflationary pressures affecting the broader economy. Consequently, while Packaging Corp. of America navigates these trends, both the company and its employees may face steeper healthcare expenses in the near future. Click here to learn more

'Packaging Corp. of America employees should prioritize proactive retirement planning by carefully evaluating their spending, adjusting their portfolio risk, and factoring in health care costs, all of which can support a more stable and fulfilling retirement journey.' – Paul Bergeron, a representative of The Retirement Group, a division of Wealth Enhancement.

'By taking a hands-on approach to retirement planning, Packaging Corp. of America employees can steer clear of common pitfalls and prepare for the financial demands of retirement, from health care costs to sustainable income strategies.' – Tyson Mavar, a representative of The Retirement Group, a division of Wealth Enhancement.

In this article, we will discuss:

The importance of proactive retirement planning for Packaging Corp. of America employees.
Key steps to take within five years of retirement, including reviewing benefits and spending.
Strategies for managing health care costs and adjusting investment portfolios as retirement approaches.

Planning for retirement requires careful consideration, particularly as your retirement date approaches. Automatic payroll deductions through Packaging Corp. of America benefits programs may have made investing feel seamless, but effective retirement planning requires a hands-on strategy. Getting ahead of the curve allows you to refine your retirement plan to align with your objectives.

If you plan to retire from Packaging Corp. of America within the next five years, begin taking these five key steps now:

1. Rethink the Function of Employment in Retirement

It’s important to assess whether you plan to continue working in some capacity during retirement. Consulting or part-time work might help ease the transition and provide supplemental income, but it shouldn’t be the core of your strategy. For Packaging Corp. of America professionals, unexpected life changes or health issues may make continued work uncertain. Planning for retirement with financial independence—without relying on future earnings—creates a foundation for a smoother experience.

2. Monitor and Comprehend Your Spending

Understanding your current spending is crucial for estimating what you might need later. As a Packaging Corp. of America employee, your spending habits could shift post-retirement—especially regarding health care, housing, and lifestyle choices. Evaluating your needs now provides insight into whether you’re on track to meet your retirement objectives. By revisiting your budget and savings patterns today, you can reduce the likelihood of surprises later on.

3. Examine Your Benefits from Social Security

Social Security plays a key role in retirement for many Americans. Begin by checking your information on the Social Security Administration’s website to model different claiming scenarios. For Packaging Corp. of America employees, understanding the timing of when to begin collecting benefits—such as delaying until full retirement age—could substantially impact your monthly payments. Including this in your plan will help create a more effective retirement income strategy.

4. Evaluate Your Retirement Funds

Take a close look at your Packaging Corp. of America retirement accounts and personal savings. Review how much you’ve saved, how your portfolio is allocated, and what income sources you expect to draw from. Subtract your estimated Social Security income from your expected living expenses to calculate how much you’ll need to withdraw. Depending on your financial needs, you may need to adjust your spending, increase contributions, or delay your retirement date.

5. Reduce the Risk in Your Portfolio

As you near retirement, consider shifting your investment portfolio toward less volatile assets. Packaging Corp. of America employees who experience a market downturn early in retirement could face long-term impacts. Lowering exposure to riskier assets may give you more flexibility during market dips. This adjustment can help you preserve principal and draw income from more stable sources in your early retirement years.

Starting early on these five steps can lead to a smoother and more confident transition into retirement. Packaging Corp. of America professionals who commit to reviewing and refining their plans now may be better positioned to shape the retirement lifestyle they envision. Proactive planning offers greater clarity into your future finances and more control over your timeline.

Medical expenses are a major factor to incorporate into your retirement planning. According to a 2023 Fidelity Investments report, a 65-year-old couple retiring today is expected to spend an average of $315,000 on health care throughout retirement. Packaging Corp. of America retirees should factor this into their savings plans. Allocating funds for future health care needs can help cover both routine and unexpected medical costs, reducing financial pressure later on.

If you're expecting to retire from Packaging Corp. of America in the next five years, this checklist provides a structured roadmap to follow. From reviewing your Social Security benefits and investment allocations to preparing for health care costs, these steps are designed to help you maintain financial balance. Evaluating spending, reconsidering the role of post-retirement work, and shifting toward lower-risk investments can help you face retirement with more confidence and fewer surprises.

Think of preparing for retirement like planning a cross-country trip. You wouldn’t hit the road without checking your car, mapping your route, and making sure you have enough fuel. Likewise, Packaging Corp. of America employees shouldn’t head into retirement without reviewing finances, factoring in health care, and organizing their resources. With these steps in place, you're better equipped for the journey ahead—and ready to enjoy the ride.