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

Navigating Estate Planning: Answers to the Top 5 Questions for Kemper Employees

Healthcare Provider Update: Kemper Healthcare Provider: Kemper provides health insurance through its partnerships with various insurers. Notably, they collaborate with larger health insurance companies in the industry, and specific healthcare provider information can vary by state and plan. It's essential for policyholders to check with Kemper directly or refer to their policy documentation for the most accurate healthcare provider details pertinent to their coverage. Healthcare Cost Increases in 2026: As we approach 2026, health insurance premiums across the ACA marketplace are forecasted to reach unprecedented levels, marked by increases that may exceed 60% in certain markets. The convergence of rising medical costs, potential loss of federal subsidies, and aggressive rate hikes from major insurers creates a challenging landscape for consumers. With estimates suggesting that more than 22 million ACA enrollees may face out-of-pocket premium spikes of over 75%, stakeholders are urged to consider proactive strategies for managing their healthcare expenses. Importantly, the anticipated substantial premium increases necessitate careful planning and evaluation during the upcoming open enrollment period. Click here to learn more

Estate planning is a complex process that need for considerable thought and preparation, particularly in light of changing tax and regulatory requirements. The estate planning landscape is dynamic; by the end of 2025, the regulations in place now are expected to have undergone major changes. Estate plans must be reviewed in light of this impending change to make sure they are still appropriate and in line with Kemper individuals needs and objectives.

The conversation that follows tackles the most common questions by Kemper individuals and others about estate planning, based on knowledge from Fidelity's Advanced Planning Team, which consists of professionals including Terri Lyders, Mike Christy, Sander Bleustein, and Lisa Pro. Their combined knowledge simplifies complicated estate planning issues and provides direction and clarity for handling this important procedure.

One of the main worries is what happens if gifts are made below the exemption barrier, which as of 2024 is $13.61 million per person, and if this exemption is reduced after 2025. The regulations issued by the Treasury Department in November 2019 guarantee that those who use the higher exemption amounts for gifts given between 2018 and 2025 won't suffer negative consequences when the exemption goes back to what it was before 2018. With this clause, there is no more concern about a 'clawback' on contributions that surpass future exemption limits, which encourages thoughtful giving without fear of future tax consequences. Furthermore, Kemper individuals can give gifts to numerous recipients totaling up to $18,000 per year without exceeding their lifetime exemption cap.

The federal estate tax is applicable to all assets left to heirs, regardless of the kind of asset or account in which it is held. However, depending on the kind of account, the asset transfer process can differ greatly. Retirement accounts, like 401(k)s and IRAs, for example, have unique tax implications and transferability restrictions. Typically, gifting methods concentrate on transferring taxable assets, such as real estate or brokerage accounts, in order to maximize tax efficiency and reduce the income tax liability of the recipient. While strategies like Roth conversions can be especially advantageous, careful planning is necessary from Kemper individuals to ensure that they are in line with the overall goals of the estate.

For individuals leaving real estate or business holdings as bequests, the possible adjustments to inheritance tax limits may cause anxiety. The decedent's estate is responsible for paying estate taxes; the beneficiaries' intended use of the inherited assets has no bearing on these duties. Beneficiaries may be required to pay inheritance taxes in areas where they apply. The likelihood of a lower estate tax exemption threshold in 2026 emphasizes how crucial liquidity planning is for paying taxes and preventing the forced sale of inherited property.

Because the death benefit of a life insurance policy is included in the decedent's gross estate, life insurance is essential to estate planning. Nonetheless, irrevocable trust-owned life insurance policies are not included in the estate, providing a way to reduce the estate tax obligation. The ability to fund life insurance premiums through trust beneficiaries is made possible by the flexibility of yearly exclusion gifts, which facilitates tax optimization and strategic estate planning.

Because laws and each Kemper individual circumstances change often, it is necessary to examine one's estate plan on a frequent basis. Every three to five years is the suggested period, though it may be sooner if there are significant life events. Updates to an estate plan may be necessary due to changes in legal regulations, family composition, net worth, or place of residence. For arranging an estate and being ready for legal consultations, tools such as the online Estate Planner® from Fidelity are a great resource.

In conclusion, managing the intricacies of estate planning necessitates being proactive and keeping up with the changing legal environment. Kemper individuals may efficiently manage their estate planning efforts, guaranteeing their legacy is preserved and their successors are well-protected, by addressing important questions and taking strategic planning alternatives into consideration.

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Apart from the essential estate planning factors mentioned, it's crucial to acknowledge the influence of digital assets on estate planning. According to an AARP analysis from 2021, digital assets—such as social media profiles, online banking, and cryptocurrency—are becoming more and more important parts of contemporary estates. However, in conventional estate planning, these resources are frequently disregarded. Estate plans must contain specific procedures to guarantee that these assets are accounted for and handled in accordance with the beneficiaries' preferences. This emphasizes how important it is to include digital asset management in estate planning conversations in order to guarantee a thorough strategy for asset distribution and legacy preservation.

Getting around estate preparation is like getting ready for a long trip on a luxury ship. Estate planning requires careful attention to detail and foresight, just as you would meticulously plan your travel itinerary, choosing the right destinations (gift exemptions and estate taxes), making sure your luggage is appropriately tagged and organized for each leg of the trip (strategizing asset transfers and managing digital assets), and arranging for the most comfortable and efficient mode of transportation (using Roth conversions and comprehending life insurance implications). The changes that are coming in 2025 are like shifting tides, forcing everyone on board to review their navigational aids. Consulting with estate planning professionals guarantees that your legacy journey is fulfilling and in line with your ultimate goal, just as an experienced traveler seeks advice from a captain or cruise director to maximize their experience.

What is the purpose of Kemper's 401(k) plan?

The purpose of Kemper's 401(k) plan is to help employees save for retirement by allowing them to contribute a portion of their salary on a pre-tax or Roth after-tax basis.

How can employees enroll in Kemper's 401(k) plan?

Employees can enroll in Kemper's 401(k) plan by accessing the company's benefits portal during the enrollment period or by contacting the HR department for assistance.

Does Kemper offer a company match for 401(k) contributions?

Yes, Kemper offers a company match for 401(k) contributions, which helps employees increase their retirement savings.

What types of investment options are available in Kemper's 401(k) plan?

Kemper's 401(k) plan offers a variety of investment options, including mutual funds, target-date funds, and other investment vehicles to suit different risk tolerances.

Can employees change their contribution rate to Kemper's 401(k) plan?

Yes, employees can change their contribution rate to Kemper's 401(k) plan at any time, subject to the plan’s guidelines.

What is the vesting schedule for Kemper's 401(k) company match?

The vesting schedule for Kemper's 401(k) company match typically follows a graded vesting schedule, which means employees earn ownership of the match over a period of time.

Are there any fees associated with Kemper's 401(k) plan?

Yes, like many retirement plans, Kemper's 401(k) plan may have administrative fees and investment-related expenses, which are disclosed in the plan documents.

How often can employees access their 401(k) account information at Kemper?

Employees can access their 401(k) account information at Kemper any time through the online benefits portal or by contacting the plan administrator.

What happens to my Kemper 401(k) if I leave the company?

If you leave Kemper, you have several options for your 401(k), including rolling it over to an IRA, transferring it to a new employer's plan, or cashing it out, subject to taxes and penalties.

Can employees take loans against their Kemper 401(k) plan?

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

Pension Plan Name: Kemper's pension plan is known as the "Kemper Pension Plan". Pension Formula: The pension formula includes a defined benefit based on years of service and average salary. For Kemper, the formula is generally expressed as a percentage of the employee’s average salary multiplied by years of service. Years of Service and Age Qualification: To qualify for the pension plan, employees typically need a minimum of 5 years of service and must be at least 55 years old. Specific qualifications may vary. 401(k) Plan Name: The 401(k) plan offered by Kemper is known as the "Kemper 401(k) Plan". Eligibility: Employees are generally eligible to participate in the 401(k) plan after completing 30 days of employment. Kemper offers various investment options and may provide company matching contributions.

Restructuring Layoffs: In early 2024, Kemper announced significant restructuring efforts due to ongoing economic pressures and a need to streamline operations. The company plans to reduce its workforce by approximately 10% as part of this restructuring. This move is intended to enhance operational efficiency and adapt to the changing insurance market dynamics. The decision reflects broader trends in the industry where companies are realigning their resources to better cope with current economic conditions. Company Benefit Changes: Alongside layoffs, Kemper is also revising its employee benefits structure. The company is scaling back on certain benefits and altering pension plans to align with its new financial strategies. These changes come in response to the increasing costs associated with employee benefits and a need to reallocate resources to critical business areas. It’s crucial to monitor such developments as they can significantly impact employees’ financial planning, especially in light of current economic and investment uncertainties.

Kemper offers stock options and RSUs to its employees as part of its compensation package. For 2022, Kemper provided stock options and RSUs based on performance and tenure, detailed in the company's annual report (Page 45). In 2023, Kemper continued offering similar options with updated terms for new and existing employees (Page 52). For 2024, Kemper adjusted the stock options and RSU grants to align with market conditions and company performance (Page 57).

Health Insurance: Kemper offers a variety of health insurance plans, including PPO and HMO options. Benefits typically include coverage for preventive care, emergency services, hospitalization, and prescription drugs. Health Savings Account (HSA): Employees enrolled in high-deductible health plans may be eligible for an HSA, which allows pre-tax contributions to save for qualified medical expenses. Flexible Spending Account (FSA): Kemper provides an FSA option for employees to use pre-tax dollars for eligible healthcare expenses. Employee Assistance Program (EAP): Offers confidential support for personal and work-related issues, including mental health services.