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KeyCorp Annuities: Essential Insights for Planning Your Retirement Journey

Healthcare Provider Update: Healthcare Provider for KeyCorp: KeyCorp partners with Anthem Blue Cross Blue Shield as their primary healthcare provider. This relationship offers KeyCorp employees a broad range of health insurance options and services to ensure their healthcare needs are met efficiently. Healthcare Cost Increases in 2026: As we approach 2026, significant increases in healthcare costs are anticipated. With the expiration of enhanced federal premium subsidies under the Affordable Care Act, many enrollees could face out-of-pocket premium hikes exceeding 75%. This situation is exacerbated by rising medical costs and aggressive rate hikes from major insurers, which in some states might surpass 60%. The combination of these factors suggests a challenging landscape for consumers, potentially prompting healthier individuals to exit the market, thus raising costs for those who remain. As the healthcare industry grapples with these changes, proactive planning for 2026 will be essential for individuals and employers alike. 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 KeyCorp 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 KeyCorp 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 KeyCorp 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 KeyCorp 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 KeyCorp 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 KeyCorp 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 KeyCorp 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 KeyCorp offer to its employees?

KeyCorp offers a 401(k) Savings Plan to help employees save for retirement.

How can KeyCorp employees enroll in the 401(k) Savings Plan?

KeyCorp employees can enroll in the 401(k) Savings Plan through the company’s HR portal or by contacting the benefits department.

Does KeyCorp match employee contributions to the 401(k) Savings Plan?

Yes, KeyCorp provides a matching contribution to employee contributions made to the 401(k) Savings Plan, subject to certain limits.

What is the maximum contribution limit for KeyCorp's 401(k) Savings Plan?

The maximum contribution limit for KeyCorp's 401(k) Savings Plan is determined by IRS regulations and may change annually.

Can KeyCorp employees take loans against their 401(k) Savings Plan balance?

Yes, KeyCorp allows employees to take loans against their 401(k) Savings Plan balance under certain conditions.

What investment options are available in KeyCorp's 401(k) Savings Plan?

KeyCorp's 401(k) Savings Plan offers a variety of investment options, including mutual funds and other investment vehicles.

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

KeyCorp employees can change their 401(k) contribution amounts at any time, subject to payroll processing schedules.

Is there a vesting schedule for KeyCorp's 401(k) Savings Plan?

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

At what age can KeyCorp employees begin withdrawing from their 401(k) Savings Plan without penalties?

KeyCorp employees can begin withdrawing from their 401(k) Savings Plan without penalties at age 59½.

What happens to KeyCorp's 401(k) Savings Plan if an employee leaves the company?

If an employee leaves KeyCorp, they can roll over their 401(k) Savings Plan balance to another retirement account or leave it in the plan, depending on the balance.

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

KeyCorp offers a comprehensive retirement benefits package for its employees, including a 401(k) plan and a cash balance pension plan. Employees are automatically enrolled in the 401(k) plan at a 2% contribution rate upon hire, with the option to contribute up to 100% of eligible compensation. KeyCorp matches contributions dollar-for-dollar up to 7% after one year of service. The plan allows both pre-tax and Roth contributions, with a variety of investment options available. The company also offers a cash balance pension plan, though specific details about the pension formula and eligibility requirements were not publicly disclosed in the documents reviewed. The information was sourced from KeyCorp's benefits documentation, specifically on pages related to retirement and financial wellness

Restructuring Layoffs: In 2023 and 2024, KeyCorp faced restructuring efforts driven by market conditions, which resulted in layoffs across various departments. These layoffs are part of KeyCorp's strategy to manage rising costs and align resources more efficiently. The financial services sector has seen increased pressure due to economic fluctuations and regulatory challenges (InvestmentNews). It is important to address this news because of the current economic environment, which has significantly impacted corporate decision-making. The tax and political landscape has also created a more uncertain outlook, making cost management and workforce reductions crucial for businesses like KeyCorp.

KeyCorp (NYSE: KEY) provides employees with stock options and Restricted Stock Units (RSUs) as part of their compensation and incentive programs. These RSUs are offered to select employees at the company's discretion, based on performance and role. Employees at KeyCorp typically receive RSUs that vest over time, encouraging long-term retention and performance. In 2022, 2023, and 2024, the stock option and RSU programs were part of broader efforts to retain talent, with eligibility based on management-level roles and tenure within the company

KeyCorp provides comprehensive health benefits to support the well-being of its employees, with a strong focus on both physical and financial wellness. The health benefits offered are centered around three high-deductible health plan options, all of which are managed through UnitedHealthcare and provide preventive care at 100%, even before deductibles are met (Key.com) (Key.com). The available plans are compatible with Health Savings Accounts (HSAs), allowing employees to make pre-tax contributions to cover medical expenses. KeyCorp's healthcare plans also include coverage for prescription drugs through Express Scripts. Additionally, dental and vision plans are offered, and employees who work 30 or more hours per week are eligible for these benefits (Key.com). There are also wellness programs such as health screenings, health coaching, and fitness benefits, aimed at promoting healthier lifestyles among employees (

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

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