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IDEX Annuities: Essential Insights for Planning Your Retirement Journey

Healthcare Provider Update: IDEX provides medical, dental, and vision insurance through national and regional carriers. Employees benefit from prescription drug coverage, HSAs, FSAs, and company-paid life insurance. The company offers a 401(k) with matching and standalone contributions, tuition assistance, and wellness programs. Community involvement is encouraged through the IDEX Foundation 9. IDEX With ACA premiums projected to rise sharply, IDEXs competitive benefits and community-focused support help employees avoid the financial burden of marketplace plans. Click here to learn more

Fixed indexed annuities (FIAs) with a Guaranteed Lifetime Withdrawal Benefit (GLWB) rider have emerged as a prominent choice in the IDEX retirement planning landscape, reflecting their increasing acceptance in the financial market. In 2021, these products accounted for approximately 25% of all U.S. individual annuities sold, signifying their growing relevance in retirement strategies.

The GLWB rider is a distinctive feature of these IDEX annuities, offering a lifetime withdrawal guarantee. This means that even if the account balance drops to zero, the retiree still receives a predetermined income. Importantly, unlike income annuities, such as single premium immediate annuities, FIAs with GLWB allow the owner to maintain access to their account balance throughout their lifetime, adding a layer of flexibility.

A recent study delved into the effectiveness of FIAs with GLWB in enhancing IDEX retirement outcomes. This research compared the projected performance of various strategies incorporating FIAs with GLWB against other annuity-based strategies and a portfolio-only approach. Key aspects like projected retirement shortfalls and bequests were analyzed to gauge the efficacy of these strategies.

The findings revealed that FIAs with GLWB can indeed improve IDEX retirement outcomes. However, their full potential is realized when they are integrated into retirement plans appropriately. This typically involves purchasing the annuity before retirement and delaying withdrawals for around a decade. Additionally, it's crucial for the purchaser to remain committed to the contract throughout retirement. Premature exit from the contract often leads to underutilization of the paid guarantees, resulting in a financial loss.

When examining the ability of FIAs with GLWB to mitigate portfolio shortfalls, the study found that they provide more income than a portfolio-only strategy in scenarios of financial shortfall. This benefit stems from their inherent design as an insurance product, offering protection against market and longevity risks.

The impact of FIAs with GLWB on bequests was also notable. They provided increased bequest value compared to a portfolio-only strategy, especially under assumptions of stable or slightly increasing pricing spreads. A pricing spread is essentially the yield that the insurance company deducts from the earned rate for overhead and profit. It's worth noting that while small increases in pricing spreads are fairly common, larger increases are less likely due to potential reputational damage to insurers. However, the possibility of such increases should not be overlooked, and prospective purchasers are advised to request historical index renewal rate data for better understanding.

FIAs with GLWB offering the most generous lifetime benefits were found to outperform other annuity-based strategies in terms of both bequests and mitigating shortfalls. The advantage is contingent upon purchasing the product before retirement and waiting an extended period before starting withdrawals, allowing the benefit base sufficient time to grow.

However, different IDEX retirees have varying financial needs. Those requiring income sooner may find more value in single premium immediate annuities or deferred income annuities, which are generally simpler and less prone to misuse.

Consumer behavior was another critical aspect of this analysis. The likelihood of a consumer lapsing, or voluntarily exiting their contract, is an important consideration. A lapse can significantly diminish the effectiveness of the strategy since the consumer ends up not utilizing the paid guarantee throughout their retirement.

Therefore, when considering FIAs with GLWB, it's essential to assess the likelihood of lapse or misuse. Consumers less familiar with the product or unprepared for retirement are more prone to lapse. Comprehensive education about the product’s features and provisions is crucial for those considering FIAs with GLWB.

In conclusion, the research underscores that while FIAs with GLWB can be beneficial in enhancing retirement outcomes, they are not universally suitable. Consumer mistakes can considerably reduce or nullify the benefits of these products, which are inherently complex. Prospective buyers should undertake a thorough comparison of different FIAs with GLWB, as benefits can vary significantly among products. Paying close attention to historical index renewal rates is also pivotal in making an informed decision.

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Ultimately, FIAs with GLWB can be a valuable tool in a retirement strategy, provided they are selected and used judiciously. Their ability to provide guaranteed income and flexibility, along with their potential to increase bequests under certain conditions, makes them an attractive option for retirees seeking financial security and efficiency in their retirement planning. However, the importance of understanding the nuances and implications of these financial products cannot be overstated, necessitating a careful and informed approach to their integration into one’s financial portfolio.

An essential consideration for those nearing retirement, particularly relevant to IDEX individuals aged around 60, is the impact of inflation on annuity products. According to the National Association of Insurance Commissioners (NAIC), as of 2023, many fixed annuities, including FIAs, do not inherently protect against inflation. This can significantly affect the purchasing power of the fixed income received. Consequently, individuals looking into FIAs as a retirement strategy should consider inflation-protected annuities or supplementary investment strategies to safeguard their future purchasing power, ensuring their retirement income keeps pace with the rising cost of living (NAIC, 2023).

Explore the benefits and considerations of Fixed Indexed Annuities (FIAs) with Guaranteed Lifetime Withdrawal Benefits (GLWB) for effective retirement planning. Our in-depth analysis reveals how FIAs with GLWB can enhance retirement outcomes, mitigate portfolio shortfalls, and potentially increase bequests, especially for those nearing retirement age. Understand the importance of timing in purchasing these annuities and the critical role of consumer behavior in maximizing their benefits. Dive into the complexities of FIAs, learn about pricing spreads, and discover how to choose the right annuity for a financially secure retirement. Ideal for IDEX professionals and retirees seeking smart financial strategies.

Consider Fixed Indexed Annuities (FIAs) with Guaranteed Lifetime Withdrawal Benefits (GLWB) as a sophisticated timepiece, crafted for precision and reliability in the world of retirement planning. Much like a high-end watch that requires careful selection and understanding to fully appreciate its craftsmanship and functionality, FIAs with GLWB demand a discerning approach. They are not just about telling time (providing income) but also about ensuring precision and longevity in financial planning. The right FIA, chosen after meticulous research and tailored to individual retirement needs, can tick steadily, providing a consistent and secure income stream, much like the dependable and unerring movement of a luxury timepiece, ensuring financial stability and peace of mind in retirement years.

What type of retirement plan does IDEX offer to its employees?

IDEX offers a 401(k) retirement savings plan to its employees.

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

IDEX employees can enroll in the 401(k) plan through the employee benefits portal or by contacting the HR department for assistance.

Does IDEX offer any matching contributions to the 401(k) plan?

Yes, IDEX provides matching contributions to the 401(k) plan, which helps employees save more for retirement.

What is the maximum contribution limit for IDEX employees participating in the 401(k) plan?

The maximum contribution limit for IDEX employees is set by the IRS and may change annually; employees should refer to the latest IRS guidelines for specific limits.

Are there any vesting requirements for the employer match in IDEX's 401(k) plan?

Yes, IDEX has a vesting schedule for employer matching contributions, which determines when employees fully own those contributions.

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

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

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

IDEX offers a variety of investment options in its 401(k) plan, including mutual funds, target-date funds, and other investment vehicles.

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

IDEX employees can change their 401(k) contribution amounts during designated enrollment periods or as specified in the plan documents.

What happens to my 401(k) if I leave IDEX?

If you leave IDEX, you have several options for your 401(k), including rolling it over to another retirement account, cashing it out, or leaving it in the IDEX plan if eligible.

Is there a penalty for withdrawing funds from my IDEX 401(k) before retirement age?

Yes, there is typically a penalty for early withdrawals from the IDEX 401(k) plan, in addition to regular income taxes.

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

Name of Pension Plan: IDEX Corporation does not have a traditional defined benefit pension plan. Instead, they primarily offer defined contribution plans, including 401(k) plans. Years of Service and Age Qualification: IDEX Corporation generally does not offer a traditional pension plan; thus, there are no specific criteria for years of service or age for pension benefits. Pension Formula: Not applicable as IDEX Corporation focuses on 401(k) plans. 401(k) Plan Information Name of 401(k) Plan: IDEX Corporation’s 401(k) plan is generally referred to as the "IDEX 401(k) Plan." Who Qualifies: Employees typically become eligible for the 401(k) plan after completing a probationary period, which is often six months of service. Company Contribution: IDEX Corporation may offer a company match to employee contributions, though specific match percentages and contribution limits should be verified in the most recent plan documents.

IDEX Announces Restructuring Plan: In March 2024, IDEX announced a significant restructuring plan aimed at streamlining operations and reducing costs. The plan involves the closure of several non-core facilities and a reduction in workforce. This move is part of IDEX’s strategy to focus on its core business areas and improve operational efficiency. Source: Reuters

IDEX provided stock options (SO) and restricted stock units (RSU) for its employees as part of its compensation package in 2022. IDEX stock options are typically available to senior management and key employees based on performance and tenure. IDEX RSUs were granted to select employees as part of their long-term incentive plan.

Recent Changes: In 2023, IDEX increased their health benefits offerings by expanding telemedicine services and adding more preventive care benefits. They also adjusted their premium contributions to ease the financial burden on employees. Healthcare Trends: There has been a notable shift towards incorporating mental health resources and virtual care solutions into employee benefit programs.

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For more information you can reach the plan administrator for IDEX at , ; or by calling them at .

https://www.reuters.com/ https://www.businessinsider.com/ https://www.bloomberg.com/asia https://www.cnbc.com/world/?region=world https://www.benefitspro.com/?slreturn=20240817131439 http://www.401khelpcenter.com/ https://www.thelayoff.com/#google_vignette https://www.idexcorp.com/