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

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Five 401(k) Tips for ExxonMobil Employees

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Healthcare Provider Update: Healthcare Provider for ExxonMobil For the upcoming year, ExxonMobil's primary healthcare provider is Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Texas (BCBSTX). Effective from January 1, 2025, employees and their families will access healthcare through BCBSTX, ensuring improved network access and support for managing healthcare costs. Prescription drug services will continue to be provided by Express Scripts. Potential Healthcare Cost Increases in 2026 In 2026, ExxonMobil may experience significant healthcare cost increases, paralleling broader trends in the Affordable Care Act (ACA) marketplace. With some states projecting premium hikes of over 60% and the potential loss of enhanced federal premium subsidies, many employees could see their out-of-pocket costs escalate dramatically. The Kaiser Family Foundation has highlighted that without congressional action, most marketplace enrollees might face increases exceeding 75%. These combined pressures will necessitate careful planning and strategic healthcare decisions from ExxonMobil employees going into 2026. Click here to learn more

ExxonMobil employees approaching retirement will find that managing their 401(k) accounts is a major factor in determining whther or not they will have a successful retirement. In the past, rolling over these funds into Individual Retirement Accounts (IRAs) has been the standard approach. The possibility of receiving advising fees from these rollovers has contributed to the recommendation of this counsel, which financial advisors frequently make. Recent evidence, however, suggests that this tendency is changing and that retirees are becoming more inclined to keep their assets in their 401(k) plans.

According to a thorough J.P. Morgan survey, 42% of participants in defined-contribution plans chose to retain their assets in their original plans for a maximum of three years after retirement. Compared to ten years ago, when the rate was less than half of that, this figure represents a huge increase. This conclusion was also supported by a Pew survey, which revealed that 35% of people approaching retirement intend to keep their investments in their current plans. The principal rationales ascribed to this decision are the caliber of investment alternatives, minimal costs, and general ease of use.

Financial consultants for ExxonMobil retirement plans are aware of this changing tendency. A Pimco survey from 2021 indicates that, up from just 14% in 2015, 36% of retirement plan consulting firms actively encourage members to maintain their assets in their plans beyond retirement. This change is a component of a larger goal to maintain assets in plans, which lowers overall costs for all members. As part of these initiatives, numerous plans have improved their offerings for retirees by adding features like tailored advisory services, opportunities for rolling in outside assets, and educational materials.

It's critical for ExxonMobil retirees to weigh a number of factors before deciding whether to keep their 401(k) or roll it over into an IRA:

  1. The 401(k) Plan's Quality:  Examining the available investment alternatives, related administrative and investment expenses, and other plan details are necessary to evaluate the quality of your 401(k). This may involve examining the investment lineup's performance and diversification, usually with the use of resources like Morningstar ratings. Examining any administrative expenses that can have an impact on the net return on investments is also crucial. The possibility of reduced costs in an IRA is a crucial point of comparison, particularly in light of the availability of inexpensive index funds and exchange-traded funds.

  2. Early Access to Savings:  ExxonMobil 401(k) plans may provide more flexible options for retirees who may require early access to their savings, prior to the customary withdrawal age of 59.5. Unlike IRAs, which have a threshold of 59.5 years, many 401(k) plans permit penalty-free withdrawals after the age of 55, following employment termination. For people who plan to retire sooner than usual, this option can be quite helpful.

  3. Withdrawal Flexibility:  The alternatives for withdrawal are another important consideration. A 401(k) plan may restrict the ability to actively control asset allocation by requiring withdrawals to be made proportionately from all investments within the account. IRAs, on the other hand, usually provide retirees with greater flexibility by letting them decide which investments to sell off in order to meet their cash flow demands and keep a strategic asset balance.

  4. Creditor Shields:  Compared to IRAs, assets held in 401(k) plans have better legal manageability against creditors. For people in careers where litigation risk is higher or who could have credit issues, this can be a big benefit.

  5. Employer Stock Considerations:  If your 401(k) contains employer stock, it can be advantageous to keep the stock in the plan because of the favorable tax treatment on any improvement in value (sometimes referred to as net unrealized appreciation). If you roll over to an IRA, you may pay more taxes on the appreciation.

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  7. 401(k) Guardrails:  Fiduciaries oversee 401(k) plans and are legally required to operate in the best interests of members, which frequently leads to a selection of diverse and conservative investing options. This can offer a degree of ease and security that people handling their own IRAs can't always match.

In conclusion, ExxonMobil employee's decision to maintain or roll over their 401(k) to an IRA is mostly influenced by their unique financial circumstances, their retirement objectives, and the features of their existing plan. With the help of financial instruments and perhaps even a financial advisor's advice, people should carefully assess their situations as each choice has differences in benefits and concerns. Retirees can make selections that best suit their long-term financial health and retirement goals thanks to this careful consideration.

The significance of health care planning in addition to retirement funds has been highlighted by recent research, especially for individuals leaving large businesses.  According to a 2022 Employee Benefit Research Institute study, retirees may require up to $300,000 to cover their medical costs in retirement, not including long-term care . Thus, it becomes essential to assess the available health savings accounts (HSAs) and other investment vehicles offered by the ExxonMobil 401(k) plan.  In their post-work years, retirees can preserve their lifestyle and financial stability while successfully managing health care costs thanks to this consideration (Employee Benefit Research Institute, 2022) .

Selecting the best route through a well-maintained garden maze is analogous to deciding what to do with your 401(k) after you retire. The most popular option has historically been a direct path, such as using the main, well trafficked pathway, that ends in an IRA rollover. But according to recent trends, a lot of people are now opting to take their time and delve into the nooks and crannies of their current 401(k) plans. This change is like finding peaceful, shady benches and interesting vistas that you've always known about but haven't often looked at. Whether you choose to convert to an IRA or remain in your 401(k), each route has its own set of attractions and rest areas, such as different investment alternatives, fee schedules, and withdrawal flexibility, all of which are essential to improving your travel across the retirement financial landscape.

Disclosure: There is no guarantee that asset allocation or diversification will enhance over all returns, outperform a non-diversified portfolio, nor ensure a profit or protect against a loss. Investing involves risk, including possible loss of principal. 

How does the ExxonMobil Savings Plan compare against typical retirement savings plans, and what unique features does it offer that can benefit employees approaching retirement? Additionally, can you elaborate on the necessary steps ExxonMobil employees should take within the savings plan to ensure maximum contributions and employer match during their service years?

ExxonMobil Savings Plan: ExxonMobil's Savings Plan offers flexibility with pre-tax, after-tax, and Roth contributions, and features a 7% company match for the first 6% of employee contributions, a unique benefit compared to typical plans. Employees should contribute the maximum percentage to receive the full match and regularly review their investment allocations through the Voya platform​(ExxonMobil_2024_ExxonMo…).

What are the eligibility criteria for employees to participate in the ExxonMobil Pension Plan, and how is the retirement benefit calculated? As employees consider their long-term savings strategy, how does the option of a lump-sum distribution versus an annuity influence their financial planning at ExxonMobil?

ExxonMobil Pension Plan: Employees are automatically enrolled and eligible for benefits after five years of service, with full retirement benefits offered at 55 with 15 years of service. The pension is calculated based on 1.6% of final average pay multiplied by years of service, minus a social security offset. Lump-sum and annuity options affect long-term financial planning, with lump sums offering immediate flexibility while annuities provide a steady income​(ExxonMobil_2024_ExxonMo…).

In what ways does the ExxonMobil Employee Assistance Program (EAP) support employees during personal or family crises, and what confidentiality measures are in place to protect their privacy? Additionally, how can ExxonMobil employees access these services, and what are the key resources available through this program?

Employee Assistance Program (EAP): ExxonMobil's EAP provides confidential counseling services for personal and family issues like anxiety, addiction, and family conflict. Services are accessible by phone, video chat, or text, with privacy strictly protected. Employees can contact ComPsych for guidance and support through the GuidanceNow app or website​(ExxonMobil_2024_ExxonMo…).

With the introduction of Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs) at ExxonMobil, how do these accounts help employees manage their health care and dependent care expenses more effectively? What guidelines should employees follow to ensure they maximize their tax advantages while complying with IRS regulations during the enrollment process?

Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs): FSAs at ExxonMobil allow employees to reduce taxable income by contributing pre-tax dollars to healthcare or dependent care expenses. Employees should estimate their expenses carefully during the enrollment period and comply with IRS rules, ensuring they submit claims by April 15th of the following year​(ExxonMobil_2024_ExxonMo…).

How does ExxonMobil define "work-life balance," and what specific benefits and programs are in place to support this philosophy for employees? Can you discuss how employees can utilize these options, such as flexible schedules and leave of absence policies, without negatively impacting their career progression within the company?

Work-Life Balance: ExxonMobil promotes work-life balance with programs like “Flex Your Day,” allowing flexibility in work hours, and up to 20 days of back-up dependent care. Employees are encouraged to use these options strategically to maintain career progression while balancing personal obligations​(ExxonMobil_2024_ExxonMo…).

In light of the various medical plan options offered at ExxonMobil, how should employees approach selecting the right plan to best meet their healthcare needs? What factors should they consider, including family health history and financial implications, when making their decisions?

Medical Plan Selection: ExxonMobil offers Aetna POS II and network-only options, allowing employees to choose between plans based on cost, coverage, and provider access. Employees should assess their family's healthcare needs, financial situation, and preferred providers when selecting the most appropriate plan​(ExxonMobil_2024_ExxonMo…).

For ExxonMobil employees nearing retirement, what resources are available to help them understand the nuances of health benefits coordination through Medicare and their ExxonMobil coverage? How can they best navigate this transition, and what checkpoints should they be aware of to ensure they remain compliant with company policies during retirement?

Retirement Health Benefits and Medicare: ExxonMobil offers resources to help employees coordinate health benefits with Medicare upon retirement. Employees nearing retirement should explore their options through the Your Total Rewards portal and ensure compliance with company policies during the transition​(ExxonMobil_2024_ExxonMo…).

What financial education resources does ExxonMobil provide to employees to promote informed decision-making about their retirement savings and benefits? Can you detail how programs like the Financial Fitness Program enable employees to strategically manage their finances and plan for retirement?

Financial Education Resources: ExxonMobil's Financial Fitness Program, provided in collaboration with Ernst & Young, helps employees manage their finances with resources such as EY Navigate and personalized financial planning. This program supports informed decision-making about retirement and savings strategies​(ExxonMobil_2024_ExxonMo…).

As part of the benefits provided by ExxonMobil, how does the company facilitate employee participation in volunteer programs and charitable activities through the ExxonMobil Foundation? How can employees engage with these initiatives while also balancing their work commitments?

Volunteer Programs: Through the ExxonMobil Foundation, employees can engage in charitable activities via the Volunteer Involvement Program (VIP), which offers grants to nonprofits based on time spent volunteering. Participation in these programs is flexible, enabling employees to balance work commitments with volunteer efforts​(ExxonMobil_2024_ExxonMo…).

How can ExxonMobil employees get in touch with benefits representatives to address specific questions about their retirement and savings plans? What are the recommended channels and best times to reach out for assistance to ensure they receive timely and relevant information about their options?

Contacting Benefits Representatives: Employees can reach out to the ExxonMobil Benefits Service Center at 833-776-9966 during business hours (8 a.m. to 4 p.m. CST) for assistance with retirement and savings plan questions. The Your Total Rewards portal also offers 24/7 access for reviewing and managing benefits​(ExxonMobil_2024_ExxonMo…).

With the current political climate we are in it is important to keep up with current news and remain knowledgeable about your benefits.
ExxonMobil offers a traditional defined benefit pension plan that provides a monthly retirement benefit. Employees can choose between a lump-sum payment or a monthly annuity. The plan calculates benefits based on final average pay and years of service.
Layoffs and Restructuring: ExxonMobil announced plans to lay off approximately 1,900 employees in 2024 as part of its ongoing restructuring efforts. These layoffs are aimed at improving cost efficiency and adapting to market changes amidst fluctuating oil prices (Sources: MarketScreener, Nasdaq). Facility Closures: The company is closing its Clinton, New Jersey facility, leading to the loss of hundreds of jobs. Most affected employees are being offered roles at the Houston headquarters (Source: ROI-NJ). Operational Strategy: The restructuring is part of ExxonMobil's broader strategy to consolidate its North American research and technology operations in Houston, which is expected to enhance research capabilities and drive long-term growth (Source: ROI-NJ).
ExxonMobil provides RSUs that vest over time, offering employees shares upon vesting. They also grant stock options, allowing employees to buy shares at a set price.
ExxonMobil offers a comprehensive benefits package that addresses a wide range of employee needs. For 2023, the company continued to provide robust health insurance options, including various medical, dental, and vision plans. These plans offer extensive coverage for preventive care, major dental services, and comprehensive vision care, including allowances for lenses and frames or contact lenses. Notably, the medical plans also cover telemedicine services, second opinion services, and enhanced fertility benefits. This reflects ExxonMobil's commitment to ensuring its employees have access to high-quality healthcare options that cater to their specific needs. In 2024, ExxonMobil has introduced several enhancements to its benefits offerings. The Employee Health Advisory Program provides professional counseling services for mental health issues, including anxiety, depression, and family conflicts, in a confidential environment. Additionally, the company continues to support employees through a pre-tax spending plan, allowing them to make tax-free contributions to cover eligible health care and dependent care expenses. These benefits are particularly relevant in today's economic and political climate, where managing healthcare costs and ensuring mental well-being are critical. ExxonMobil's focus on comprehensive and flexible healthcare benefits underscores its commitment to supporting the overall well-being of its employees.
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For more information you can reach the plan administrator for ExxonMobil at p.o .box 64111 Spring, TX 77387-4111; or by calling them at 832-624-6731.

https://corporate.exxonmobil.com/documents/pension-plan-2022.pdf - Page 5, https://corporate.exxonmobil.com/documents/pension-plan-2023.pdf - Page 12, https://corporate.exxonmobil.com/documents/pension-plan-2024.pdf - Page 15, https://corporate.exxonmobil.com/documents/401k-plan-2022.pdf - Page 8, https://corporate.exxonmobil.com/documents/401k-plan-2023.pdf - Page 22, https://corporate.exxonmobil.com/documents/401k-plan-2024.pdf - Page 28, https://corporate.exxonmobil.com/documents/rsu-plan-2022.pdf - Page 20, https://corporate.exxonmobil.com/documents/rsu-plan-2023.pdf - Page 14, https://corporate.exxonmobil.com/documents/rsu-plan-2024.pdf - Page 17, https://corporate.exxonmobil.com/documents/healthcare-plan-2022.pdf - Page 23

*Please see disclaimer for more information

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