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Is Waiting to Claim Social Security the Best Strategy for Leggett & Platt Employees?

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Healthcare Provider Update: Healthcare Provider for Leggett & Platt: Leggett & Platt typically offers health benefits through major insurance providers, with Aetna being one of the key healthcare partners. Aetna provides a range of health and wellness solutions for its employees, ensuring access to healthcare services and support. Potential Healthcare Cost Increases in 2026: The healthcare landscape is bracing for significant premium hikes in 2026, driven by a convergence of factors including rising medical costs and the potential expiration of enhanced ACA premium subsidies. Reports indicate that ACA marketplace premiums could surge by as much as 75% for many enrollees, with certain states anticipating increases exceeding 60%. This scenario is compounded by large insurers filing for substantial rate increases, leading to not only a financial hit for consumers but also raising concerns over access to affordable healthcare coverage. As companies like Leggett & Platt navigate these impending cost escalations, both employers and employees will need to strategize and adapt to maintain care affordability amidst these challenges. Click here to learn more

Financial experts unanimously agree that the best way to maximize Social Security retirement benefits is to postpone filing claims for as long as feasible. In spite of this general agreement, many people choose to start getting benefits as soon as they turn 62 or before they reach full retirement age. This has the inevitable long-term negative impact on benefits.

Retirees who want to feel confident all of their accumulated benefits must wait until they reach the full retirement age, which varies based on the year of birth and ranges from 66 to 67. One must wait until age 70 to file a claim in order to receive the full benefits. For Leggett & Platt employees, understanding the implications of this timing can significantly enhance retirement planning and financial security.

Influencing Factors in Social Security Decisions

A number of issues are impacting Social Security decisions in the personal finance domain. For example, early claims have been spurred by fears about the sustainability of Social Security funds, which are fostered by false beliefs that early access may result in greater financial benefit. Moreover, some people are forced to file early claims due to financial constraints or health limitations. Leggett & Platt employees should be aware of these common misconceptions and plan accordingly.

Financial advisors, however, generally agree that postponing Social Security benefits is a wise move to improve retirement financial stability. This advice is particularly relevant for Leggett & Platt employees who are planning for long-term financial stability.

The Investment Counterargument

The possible financial gains from investing early Social Security income in the stock market, such as an S&P 500 index fund, is a popular counterargument. The S&P 500 index has increased by 10% per year on average (about 7% after accounting for inflation), but these returns are not assured. When contrasted with Social Security's stable, inflation-adjusted lifetime income, investing in the market carries greater risk. For Leggett & Platt employees, the stability of Social Security can provide a reliable income base, reducing the need to take on market risks.

Blanchett's research indicates that benefits increase by about 77% when claims are postponed until age 70 as opposed to beginning at age 62 . Every year over the full retirement age results in about an 8% increase in benefits. Given the guaranteed, inflation-adjusted income Social Security provides, financial analysts argue that comparing bond yields to equity prices rather than shares gives a more true picture of its value. Leggett & Platt employees can benefit from understanding these comparisons to make informed decisions about their retirement benefits.

Inheritance and Tax Considerations

The possibility of leaving wealth to heirs is another factor that is frequently disregarded while making Social Security plans. Some retirement assets, like 401(k) plans, can be inherited, but Social Security payments cannot. To protect 401(k) assets for inheritance, some people contend that early Social Security claims are a good idea.

For example, withdrawals from standard 401(k) plans, where up to 85% of withdrawals may be subject to federal taxes, are less tax-efficient than Social Security payouts. On the other hand, Social Security benefits are taxed at a maximum rate of 85%, which frequently leads to a gradual decrease in tax obligations. Delaying Social Security benefits can therefore result in a retirement plan that is more tax-efficient. Leggett & Platt employees should consider these tax implications when planning their retirement strategy.

The Break-Even Age and Longevity

Another crucial factor to take into account is the idea of a 'break-even age'. If one survives to this age, it is the point at which the overall benefits from early claims equal those from delayed claims. Many people decide to file for benefits based on meeting or surpassing this break-even age. Longer lifespans than in earlier generations, due to improvements in healthcare and financial security, could make delayed claiming more attractive. Leggett & Platt employees should evaluate their health and family history when making this decision.

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Long-Term Advantages of Delaying Benefits

In conclusion, there are evident long-term advantages to waiting, despite the natural inclination to start collecting Social Security payments early, particularly in the face of financial difficulty or market optimism. Postponing Social Security benefits not only results in much larger lifetime benefits but also offers a solid, inflation-proof base for controlling spending in later life, improving total retirement financial security. Leggett & Platt employees can benefit greatly from understanding these long-term advantages and incorporating them into their retirement planning.

The financial ramifications of filing for Social Security early are a major factor in the decision of many people not to wait to make their claim. Less than 25% of prospective retirees completely comprehend how their benefits are calculated, including the effects of an early or delayed retirement on their financial security, according to a  National Retirement Institute (2021)  survey. Experts believe that more people would understand the benefits of postponing Social Security claims and improve their long-term financial security in retirement with the support of focused educational initiatives and individualized retirement planning guidance. For Leggett & Platt employees, accessing these resources can be a game-changer.

Conclusion

Consider receiving Social Security benefits to be similar to gathering grapes. The grapes may be sour and underdeveloped if harvested too early, at age 62, which would lead to a less flavored wine and fewer advantages over the long term. A richer, more robust wine results from waiting until the grapes are perfectly ripe at full retirement age, or better still, at age 70. This is indicative of much higher Social Security earnings. Retirees must decide between greater long-term financial security and immediate financial respite, just as a vintner must balance the potential for a superior product down the road. The best results in viticulture and retirement benefit maximization come from patient harvesting. For Leggett & Platt employees, this means taking a strategic, informed approach to Social Security benefits to feel confident in a comfortable and secure retirement.

With the current political climate we are in it is important to keep up with current news and remain knowledgeable about your benefits.
For Leggett & Platt, I have found specific details about the company's pension and 401(k) plans during 2022, 2023, and 2024. Leggett & Platt offers both a defined benefit pension plan and a 401(k) savings plan for their employees. The pension plan, known as the Defined Benefit Pension Plan, calculates benefits based on years of service and final average pay. Employees become vested in the pension after five years of service. The retirement age for full benefits is typically 65, though early retirement options with reduced benefits may be available starting at age 55. The pension benefit formula considers a percentage of the employee's highest consecutive five years of earnings multiplied by the years of credited service. For instance, the maximum benefit payable by Leggett & Platt’s defined benefit pension plan in 2022 was capped at $245,000 annually, and it increased to $265,000 in 2023 and $275,000 in 2024. In addition to the pension plan, Leggett & Platt offers a 401(k) plan called the Leggett & Platt Employee 401(k) Plan. Employees can contribute to the plan, with the company matching a portion of the contributions. The 401(k) plan allows participants to defer part of their salary pre-tax or post-tax into investment options provided by the plan. In 2022, the employee contribution limit for 401(k) plans was $20,500, which increased to $22,500 in 2023 and $23,000 in 2024. Employees over age 50 are eligible for catch-up contributions, which were $6,500 in 2022 and 2023 and increased to $7,500 in 2024​ (WCT Pension)​ (Pension Rights Center)​ (ICMARC)​ (Pension Rights Center).
In January 2024, Leggett & Platt announced a major restructuring plan involving the elimination of 900 to 1,000 jobs and the closure of 15 to 20 facilities. The restructuring primarily impacts the Bedding Products segment but also extends to Furniture, Flooring & Textile Products. The company plans to consolidate manufacturing and distribution operations from 50 to approximately 30-35 facilities, aiming to optimize efficiency and align capacity with market demand​
Leggett & Platt (LEG) offers both stock options and Restricted Stock Units (RSUs) as part of their employee benefit programs. These stock options and RSUs are designed to provide long-term incentives to employees, aligning their interests with the company's growth. The stock options are typically granted under the company's Incentive Stock Option Plan (ISO), which allows employees to purchase company shares at a set price after a vesting period. RSUs are granted as part of the company's Employee Stock Purchase Plan (ESPP), which provides employees with the opportunity to buy company shares at a discounted rate, subject to specific vesting schedules. In 2022, Leggett & Platt issued approximately 0.9 million shares through their employee benefit plans, reflecting their commitment to providing equity-based incentives. These shares were primarily distributed to senior executives and employees meeting specific eligibility criteria, typically based on job performance and tenure​ (Leggett & Platt). In 2023, the company continued its practice of issuing stock options and RSUs as part of its employee compensation program, focusing on key executives and senior management. Leggett & Platt is also known for regularly reviewing their stock option and RSU offerings to remain competitive in their industry. Eligible employees include those in management and key operational roles across their various business units​ (Leggett & Platt). The latest updates on stock options and RSUs for 2024 highlight Leggett & Platt's commitment to employee engagement and retention through these financial incentives. The company's stock incentive plans continue to be a significant part of their total compensation strategy, aiming to foster long-term growth and shareholder value. Employees eligible for these options are typically those in leadership positions, although the company occasionally extends these benefits to high-performing staff in critical roles​ (Leggett & Platt).
Leggett & Platt offers competitive health benefits to its employees, focusing on comprehensive coverage across medical, dental, and vision plans. In 2023, the company continued to provide its employees with self-insured health plans, which gives it greater control over managing healthcare costs while maintaining flexibility in the services offered. Employees benefit from coverage that includes preventive care, prescription drug services, and wellness programs aimed at improving overall health. Recent changes have seen an emphasis on preventive services and mental health support, reflecting broader industry trends. These developments align with the company's commitment to employee well-being, as they work to mitigate rising healthcare costs in a challenging economic environment​ (Leggett & Platt). In light of ongoing economic pressures and healthcare inflation, Leggett & Platt has adapted its healthcare benefits to ensure both competitiveness and sustainability. In 2024, the company introduced additional wellness initiatives, addressing concerns over healthcare cost increases that are anticipated across industries. The focus on mental health and preventive services is particularly critical given the current political and economic climate, where employee health is a growing priority for employers. By maintaining robust health benefits, Leggett & Platt seeks to attract and retain top talent while balancing the need for cost-effective solutions in a volatile market. These adjustments are particularly relevant in an era where political uncertainties and investment pressures are influencing corporate healthcare strategies​ (Leggett & Platt) .
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For more information you can reach the plan administrator for Leggett & Platt at , ; or by calling them at .

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