<img height="1" width="1" style="display:none" src="https://www.facebook.com/tr?id=314834185700910&amp;ev=PageView&amp;noscript=1">

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

Learn More

Why Continental Resources Employees Should Take Social Security Knowledge Seriously: The Alarming Truth Behind Recent Quiz Results

image-table

Healthcare Provider Update: Healthcare Provider for Continental Resources Continental Resources typically offers healthcare coverage through major national insurers, with benefits administered by UnitedHealthcare. This enables the company to provide its employees with comprehensive health plans that include a range of medical services, preventive care, and wellness programs. Potential Healthcare Cost Increases in 2026 As we approach 2026, Continental Resources, like many other employers, faces a significant surge in healthcare costs that are projected to rise by approximately 8.5%. This increase arises from a perfect storm of factors, including heightened medical expenses driven by inflation, the potential loss of enhanced federal subsidies, and substantial rate hikes from insurers. Without congressional action to extend subsidy programs, employees could see their out-of-pocket costs escalate dramatically, potentially exceeding 75% for many, placing further financial strain on individuals and families. With these developments, strategic planning for healthcare expenditures will be essential for both employers and employees moving forward. Click here to learn more

Recent examination of the Social Security program's nuances and complexities has shown a sizable knowledge gap among individuals approaching retirement age. Startling data uncovered by a thorough analysis carried out by MassMutual highlight the critical need to improve Social Security knowledge within this population. As employees near retirement, its crucial to have strong foundational knowledge of Social Security. 


Seventy-eight percent of people between the ages of fifty and sixty-five failed or barely passed a thirteen-question true-false test meant to test their understanding of Social Security regulations and benefits. This is a concerning number because 41% of students received a grade of D, 37% received an outright failing mark, and less than 1% received a perfect score. Compared to the prior year, when 69% of respondents either failed or barely passed, this indicates a decrease in knowledge.

This is a crucial conclusion for Continental Resources employees, particularly in light of the significant role that Social Security is anticipated to play as the main source of income for many people in their retirement years. According to the MassMutual survey, Social Security is expected to be the primary source of income for 40% of near-retirees after they leave the workforce. This is higher than income from assets, 401(k) or 403(b) plans, and pensions.

In order to make educated decisions, Continental Resources employees must have a thorough understanding of Social Security regulations. For instance, there is no advantage to deferring claims past the age of 70, and payments may be lowered if made prior to attaining full retirement age. Remarkably, 66 to 67 is the current full retirement age, depending on one's birth date; over half of the respondents were not aware of this. David Freitag, a MassMutual financial planning counselor and Social Security expert, refers to this ignorance as 'tragic mistakes.'


The results have broad ramifications, particularly as a large segment of baby boomers near 65, a date frequently linked to retirement preparation because of Medicare eligibility. Nevertheless, Medicare eligibility and Social Security full retirement age are different, emphasizing the necessity of thorough retirement planning for Continental Resources employees. Planning that includes income and health insurance plans.

It is hard to exaggerate how complicated the Social Security system is, with regulations controlling everything from the effect of early retirement on benefits to dependents' and spouses' eligibility. There are several myths that circulate, like the idea that Social Security money is kept in private accounts that pay interest or that being a citizen of the United States is a requirement for receiving benefits. These false beliefs may result in less-than-ideal claim tactics, which could jeopardize the financial security of Continental Resources retirees.

Furthermore, the existing law indicates that Social Security payouts would be reduced by 2035, which makes it even more urgent for potential beneficiaries to become more aware of and prepared for this fact. The results of the study also show that people are noticeably dependent on Social Security even though they don't know much about it; a sizable percentage of participants were unaware of how much income their payments would replace.

Featured Video

Articles you may find interesting:

Loading...


To sum up, the MassMutual study is a strong cry for more knowledge and understanding about Social Security. It is impossible to overestimate the significance of making well-informed decisions, especially as retirement planning for Continental Resources employees continues to change. When retirement approaches, Continental Resources employees should be proactive in improving their knowledge about Social Security so they can better handle the challenges of retirement income planning. This information is essential for ensuring a secure and prosperous retirement, not just for financial reasons.

The possibility of inflation having an effect on Social Security benefits is a crucial factor for people who are getting close to retirement. The Cost of Living Adjustment (COLA), which is used to adjust Social Security benefits for cost-of-living increases, may not keep up with real increases in living expenses. The COLA was 1.3% in 2021, which was less than the real inflation rate. This disparity emphasizes how crucial it is to budget for sources of income other than Social Security in order to sustain your preferred standard of living in retirement. Financial stability requires having a thorough understanding of Social stability and making appropriate plans. (Source: COLA Information, Social Security Administration, 2021).

Getting around Social Security is like trying to navigate a huge ocean without a compass. Knowing the ins and outs of Social Security's regulations and benefits is as important for many people who are approaching retirement—both seasoned workers and retirees—as being aware of the sea's currents and weather patterns. The shocking figure that 78% of people who are close to retirement failed or barely passed a basic Social Security exam illustrates the misunderstanding that surrounds this important retirement planning element. A comprehensive understanding of Social Security guarantees a smoother journey into retirement by avoiding the hazards that can compromise one's financial security in their golden years, just as a good sailor uses information and instruments to navigate through tough waters.

What type of retirement savings plan does Continental Resources offer to its employees?

Continental Resources offers a 401(k) retirement savings plan to help employees save for retirement.

Does Continental Resources provide a matching contribution for its 401(k) plan?

Yes, Continental Resources provides a matching contribution to the 401(k) plan, which helps employees maximize their retirement savings.

How can employees at Continental Resources enroll in the 401(k) plan?

Employees at Continental Resources can enroll in the 401(k) plan by completing the enrollment process through the company’s HR portal.

What is the eligibility requirement for participating in Continental Resources' 401(k) plan?

Employees must be at least 21 years old and have completed a minimum period of service to be eligible for Continental Resources' 401(k) plan.

Can employees of Continental Resources choose how much they want to contribute to their 401(k) plan?

Yes, employees of Continental Resources can choose their contribution percentage, subject to IRS limits.

What investment options are available in the Continental Resources 401(k) plan?

The Continental Resources 401(k) plan offers a variety of investment options, including mutual funds, stocks, and bonds.

How often can employees at Continental Resources change their 401(k) contributions?

Employees at Continental Resources can change their 401(k) contributions at any time, subject to payroll processing deadlines.

What happens to the 401(k) savings if an employee leaves Continental Resources?

If an employee leaves Continental Resources, they can roll over their 401(k) balance to another retirement account or take a distribution, subject to tax implications.

Does Continental Resources allow for loans against the 401(k) plan?

Yes, Continental Resources allows employees to take loans against their 401(k) plan, subject to specific terms and conditions.

Are there any fees associated with the Continental Resources 401(k) plan?

Yes, there may be administrative fees associated with the Continental Resources 401(k) plan, 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.
Restructuring Layoffs: In 2024, Continental Resources announced a significant restructuring plan, leading to the layoff of approximately 15% of its workforce. This decision is part of a broader strategy to streamline operations and reduce costs amid fluctuating oil prices.
New call-to-action

Additional Articles

Check Out Articles for Continental Resources employees

Loading...

For more information you can reach the plan administrator for Continental Resources at 20 N. Broadway Oklahoma City, OK 73102; or by calling them at (405) 234-9000.

*Please see disclaimer for more information

Relevant Articles

Check Out Articles for Continental Resources employees