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

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International Paper Retirees: Navigating the New Job Market Landscape After Retirement

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Healthcare Provider Update: Healthcare Provider for International Paper International Paper typically utilizes large national insurers for its employee health coverage, primarily opting for options like UnitedHealthcare, Anthem (Elevance Health), or Aetna. These providers are known for offering comprehensive health plans that include medical, dental, and vision coverage for employees across various regions. Potential Healthcare Cost Increases in 2026 As we approach 2026, significant healthcare cost increases are anticipated, largely driven by escalating premiums in the Affordable Care Act (ACA) marketplace. States could see premium hikes exceeding 60%, influenced by rising medical costs, the possible expiration of federal premium subsidies, and aggressive rate adjustments by major insurers. Specifically, more than 22 million enrollees may face premium increases of over 75%, a development that poses serious implications for budget-conscious families and employers alike. As the healthcare landscape evolves, proactive strategies will be essential to mitigate the impact of these unsettling financial shifts. Click here to learn more

People who are approaching or have reached retirement age have been greatly impacted in recent years by the changing economic situation. International Paper retirement trends among older Americans are changing noticeably as a result of rising living expenses and a desire for social interaction.


More than four million Americans will turn 65 this year, which is typically considered the retirement age. A sizeable percentage of this group, nevertheless, is opting to stay employed. According to a Federal Reserve Bank of Minneapolis analysis, the percentage of persons between the ages of 65 and 69 who are employed has increased from less than 25% in 2000 to almost one-third.

Although precise numbers on International Paper retirees going back to work are not easily accessible, survey data shows a noteworthy pattern. According to a ResumeBuilder.com survey, one in eight retirees intends to return to the workforce in 2024 due to a variety of reasons, including rising expenses, inflation, insufficient savings, and a desire for fulfillment after retirement.

The financial environment for International Paper retirees is becoming more and more difficult, as many are faced with unforeseen costs like supporting adult children financially or taking on caregiving duties for aging parents. Over the past three years, the rising expenses of necessities like groceries, housing, auto insurance, and insurance have surpassed the expectations of many International Paper retirees about their budgets.


The increase in caregiving expenses is especially concerning. The median cost of a home health aide increased by 12.5% between 2020 and 2021, according to statistics from Genworth, a well-known supplier of long-term care insurance, highlighting the financial strain that seniors confront.

These difficulties are best illustrated by the narrative of 70-year-old retired nurse Joyce Fleming. Fleming was forced to return to the workforce in 2019 after retiring, citing financial constraints. She started off as a contact center employee at an amusement park handling ticket sales and guest complaints. She then moved on to become a hospital case manager. The latter job, which involved a 45-minute trip, was finally abandoned in search of jobs nearer home that paid more to offset expenses for home renovations and travel.

This trend of International Paper and other corporate retirees going back to work is indicative of a larger need to reevaluate retirement plans in light of the state of the economy today. It emphasizes how crucial it is to be flexible and look for options that fit both your financial demands and your personal fulfillment as you become older.

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While International Paper retirees negotiate the difficulties of going back to work, it's important to observe the increasing trend of 'encore careers.' These are jobs that people go after their first retirement, frequently in industries far different from their original occupations, motivated by a desire for personal development, societal influence, or fulfillment. According to an American Institute for Economic Research research, 82% of survey participants effectively changed occupations after the age of 45. This change reflects the growing desire of retirees to combine personal fulfillment with money, suggesting a more expansive interpretation of retirement.

In the current economic climate, retiring is akin to embarking on a calm journey only to discover that one must navigate unforeseen storms. Similar like seasoned sailors who need to adjust to shifting conditions by using their knowledge and expertise to steer clear of danger, a lot of retirees find themselves starting over in the job. This unexpected journey isn't being driven by a lack of direction, but rather by the need to modify their course in response to growing living expenses, unanticipated financial obligations, and the desire for fulfillment that lies beyond the horizon. This return to work is a desire for financial stability and personal growth, leading retirees to explore unexplored territory in their professional and personal lives, much as the ocean brings fresh discoveries and difficulties.

What is the primary purpose of the 401(k) plan offered by International Paper?

The primary purpose of the 401(k) plan at International Paper is to help employees save for retirement by allowing them to contribute a portion of their salary on a pre-tax basis.

Who is eligible to participate in the International Paper 401(k) plan?

All eligible employees of International Paper, typically those who meet certain age and service requirements, can participate in the 401(k) plan.

How does International Paper match employee contributions to the 401(k) plan?

International Paper provides a matching contribution to the 401(k) plan, which is a percentage of the employee's contributions, up to a specified limit.

Can employees of International Paper change their contribution percentage to the 401(k) plan?

Yes, employees of International Paper can change their contribution percentage at any time, subject to plan rules.

What investment options are available in the International Paper 401(k) plan?

The International Paper 401(k) plan offers a variety of investment options, including mutual funds, target-date funds, and other investment vehicles.

Is there a vesting schedule for the employer match in the International Paper 401(k) plan?

Yes, International Paper has a vesting schedule for the employer match, meaning employees must work for a certain period before they fully own the matched contributions.

How can employees of International Paper access their 401(k) account information?

Employees can access their 401(k) account information through the International Paper employee portal or by contacting the plan administrator.

Are loans available from the International Paper 401(k) plan?

Yes, employees may have the option to take loans from their International Paper 401(k) plan, subject to specific terms and conditions.

What happens to an employee's 401(k) account when they leave International Paper?

When an employee leaves International Paper, they can choose to roll over their 401(k) balance to another retirement account, cash out, or leave the funds in the International Paper plan if allowed.

Does International Paper offer financial education resources for employees regarding the 401(k) plan?

Yes, International Paper provides financial education resources and tools to help employees make informed decisions about their 401(k) savings.

With the current political climate we are in it is important to keep up with current news and remain knowledgeable about your benefits.
Employee Pension Plan: Plan Name: International Paper Company Pension Plan Years of Service and Age Qualification: Employees typically need to have a minimum of 5 years of service and must be at least 55 years old to qualify for early retirement benefits. Pension Formula: The pension benefit is calculated based on a formula that considers years of service and average compensation. For example, the formula might be a percentage of the employee’s average salary multiplied by years of service. Eligibility: Full-time employees who meet the service and age requirements qualify for benefits under the International Paper Company Pension Plan. 401(k) Plan: Plan Name: International Paper Company 401(k) Plan Eligibility: Generally available to all full-time employees who meet the plan’s entry requirements. The plan allows employees to make pre-tax and/or Roth contributions. Contribution Matching: International Paper may offer a company match on employee contributions up to a certain percentage of the employee's salary.
International Paper is undertaking significant restructuring efforts, including the closure of mills and production halts, which will result in an estimated 900 layoffs across locations in Texas, North Carolina, and Florida. The company is optimizing operations as part of its cost-saving measures​ (Home Page).
International Paper (NYSE: IP) offers its employees equity compensation in the form of stock options and Restricted Stock Units (RSUs). These grants are part of a comprehensive compensation package designed to align employees' interests with the company’s long-term performance. International Paper provides both Non-Qualified Stock Options (NSOs) and RSUs as part of its equity program. NSOs allow employees to purchase company stock at a predetermined price over a set period, typically vesting over four years. RSUs, on the other hand, are granted outright but only vest over time or upon meeting performance targets​ (Upstock)​ (International Paper). In 2022, International Paper issued new RSUs to mid- and upper-level management, with vesting schedules based on tenure and company performance​ (Carta). The 2023 offerings maintained a focus on RSUs over stock options, with the company's annual report noting RSUs were more tax-efficient and required fewer equity burns compared to options​ (International Paper). This shift reflects the industry trend towards RSUs as a primary form of compensation.
International Paper offers a comprehensive range of health benefits for its employees, including medical, dental, vision, and prescription drug coverage. The company emphasizes preventive care and provides options for Health Savings Accounts (HSAs) and Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs). Specific healthcare-related acronyms and terms frequently used by the company include HDHP (High Deductible Health Plan), PPO (Preferred Provider Organization), and HSA (Health Savings Account). Recent employee healthcare news highlights International Paper's efforts to manage rising healthcare costs while maintaining robust coverage options, particularly through wellness programs and preventive care initiatives aimed at reducing long-term healthcare expenses. These benefits are aligned with the company's broader commitment to employee well-being and inclusivity.
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For more information you can reach the plan administrator for International Paper at , ; or by calling them at .

https://www.thelayoff.com/ https://www.upstock.io/post/rsu-explained-for-employees https://www.internationalpaper.com/investors/financial-reports/sec-filings https://carta.com/learn/equity/rsu-vs-stock-options/ https://www.theretirementgroup.com/featured-article/revisiting-the-4-withdrawal-rule-for-international-paper-employees https://www.internationalpaper.com/resources/reports/annual-report https://jobs.internationalpaper.com/content/Benefits/?locale=en_US https://www.eisneramper.com/insights/employee-benefit-plan/retirement-plan-limitations-1123/ https://am.gs.com/en-int/institutions/insights/article/2024/us-corporate-pension-review-and-preview-2024 https://www.investopedia.com/ask/answers/032415/how-does-defined-benefit-pension-plan-differ-defined-contribution-plan.asp https://www.ifebp.org/resources---news/retirement-101/defined-contribution-plans https://www.thelayoff.com/t/1qk1A8G9 https://myipretirement.empower-retirement.com/participant/#/login https://www.futureplan.com/resources/news-articles/defined-benefit-cash-balance-plan-key-priorities/ https://www.dol.gov/agencies/ebsa/about-ebsa/our-activities/resource-center/fact-sheets/cash-balance-pension-plans

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