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Navigating Retirement Challenges: What Eli Lilly Employees Need to Know About the Upcoming Pension Freeze

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Healthcare Provider Update: Eli Lilly's primary healthcare provider initiatives are often tied to their pharmaceutical products and drug distribution networks, which include partnerships with a variety of healthcare systems and organizations to ensure that patients have access to their medications and therapies. Looking ahead to 2026, the healthcare landscape is expected to witness significant cost increases, particularly in health insurance premiums for Affordable Care Act (ACA) marketplace plans. With some states projecting hikes exceeding 60%, many individuals could see their out-of-pocket costs soar by over 75% if enhanced federal premium subsidies are not extended. This surge is driven by a combination of rising medical costs, including both hospital and prescription drug expenses, and the profitability pressures on insurers, prompting them to request substantial rate increases. As a result, consumers, especially those relying on ACA coverage, might face unprecedented financial strain in their quest for adequate healthcare. Click here to learn more

Recent research released by the Alliance for Lifetime Income reveals  a concerning outlook for Baby Boomers nearing retirement, including many within Eli Lilly. Approximately two-thirds of this demographic, set to turn 65 from 2024 to 2030, may face financial difficulties that could prevent them from maintaining their current lifestyle post-retirement. The disparities in financial readiness become starkly evident when dissecting the data by gender, ethnicity, and education.

Rob Shapiro, former undersecretary of commerce for economic affairs and author of the report, points out that of the 30.4 million Boomers entering retirement age, over 15 million will largely depend on Social Security for their income. This reliance is due to a significant number—52.5%—having assets totaling $250,000 or less, a figure that could see their resources deplete rapidly. Furthermore, an additional 14.6% hold assets under $500,000, insufficient for sustaining longer lifespans.

Addressing these concerns, Shapiro spoke at the National Press Club in Washington, D.C., highlighting that even the median retirement assets, when combined with Social Security, fail to uphold the standard of living that these Boomers are accustomed to. He emphasized the acute differences in retirement preparedness across different demographic groups, influenced by factors such as race and education, with gender also contributing.

Eli Lilly employees might consider exploring guaranteed income annuities as a viable supplement to Social Security, a recommendation supported by the Alliance for Lifetime Income. This nonprofit coalition includes notable financial entities like American International Group Inc. and J.P. Morgan Chase & Co., advocating for enhanced retirement readiness among the 'Peak 65' group in the U.S.

Jason Fichtner, executive director of the Retirement Income Institute at the Bipartisan Policy Center, stresses the importance of incorporating annuities into retirement plans. This move compensates for the decline in traditional defined benefit pensions and supports the 'three-legged stool' of retirement: employer-sponsored pensions, personal savings, and Social Security.

Shapiro's findings underscore significant disparities in retirement savings among different groups:

  1. Median savings for men are at $269,000, compared to $185,000 for women.

  2. White retirees typically have $299,000, whereas Black and Hispanic retirees have much lower savings, at $123,000 and $49,000 respectively.

  3. College graduates have saved about $591,000, far exceeding the $75,000 accumulated by those with only a high school diploma, and the scant $7,000 by those without any formal education.

 

Despite these challenges, Shapiro notes that home equity remains a substantial asset for many, which seniors prefer to retain as it keeps them connected to their communities and families.

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The gender gap in retirement savings, according to Shapiro, results from economic disparities faced by women during their working years, leading to reduced savings and less retirement security.

Panel discussions at the event also tackled the objections against annuities, such as perceived high costs and complexity. Yet, experts like William Gale from the Brookings Institution advocate for annuities as they provide a consistent income source throughout retirement.

Legislative efforts like the 2019 SECURE Act aim to improve transparency in retirement planning by requiring plans to show potential annuity income streams, enhancing participants' understanding.

With the increasing healthcare costs as a looming financial challenge for Baby Boomers nearing retirement, it's crucial for Eli Lilly employees to plan strategically.  A 2021 Fidelity Investments analysis highlighted  that a couple retiring at 65 would need about $300,000 saved post-taxes just for medical expenses, excluding long-term care.

In summary, as many Eli Lilly employees and other Baby Boomers approach retirement, they face a metaphorical sea of financial uncertainty. Strong financial planning, substantial retirement savings, and steady income streams are essential for navigating this challenging phase, providing confidence that they can continue to enjoy a comfortable and secure retirement life.

What is the 401(k) plan offered by Eli Lilly?

The 401(k) plan at Eli Lilly is a retirement savings plan that allows employees to save a portion of their salary on a tax-deferred basis.

How does Eli Lilly match employee contributions to the 401(k) plan?

Eli Lilly offers a matching contribution up to a certain percentage of the employee's salary, which helps to boost retirement savings.

Can employees at Eli Lilly choose how their 401(k) contributions are invested?

Yes, employees at Eli Lilly can select from a variety of investment options for their 401(k) contributions, including stocks, bonds, and mutual funds.

What is the eligibility requirement for Eli Lilly's 401(k) plan?

Employees at Eli Lilly are typically eligible to participate in the 401(k) plan after completing a specific period of employment, usually within the first year.

How can Eli Lilly employees enroll in the 401(k) plan?

Eli Lilly employees can enroll in the 401(k) plan through the company’s online benefits portal or by contacting the HR department for assistance.

What are the contribution limits for Eli Lilly's 401(k) plan?

The contribution limits for Eli Lilly's 401(k) plan are set according to IRS guidelines, which can change annually. Employees should refer to the latest IRS limits for specifics.

Does Eli Lilly offer a Roth 401(k) option?

Yes, Eli Lilly provides a Roth 401(k) option that allows employees to make after-tax contributions, which can grow tax-free.

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

If you leave Eli Lilly, you have several options for your 401(k), including rolling it over to another retirement account, cashing it out, or leaving it in the Eli Lilly plan if allowed.

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

Yes, there may be administrative fees or investment-related fees associated with Eli Lilly's 401(k) plan, which are disclosed in the plan documents.

How often can I change my contribution amount to the Eli Lilly 401(k) plan?

Employees at Eli Lilly can typically change their contribution amounts at any time, subject to the plan's rules and guidelines.

With the current political climate we are in it is important to keep up with current news and remain knowledgeable about your benefits.
Restructuring and Layoffs: In 2023, Eli Lilly announced significant restructuring efforts, including the reduction of 3,500 jobs globally. This move is part of their strategy to save $500 million annually, with half of the savings aimed at product launches and R&D efforts. The layoffs are primarily focused on early retirement programs, site closures in New Jersey and Shanghai, and the consolidation of manufacturing locations​ (FiercePharma). This news is critical to address due to the current economic climate, where inflationary pressures and cost-cutting measures are widespread. The political environment also affects the pharmaceutical industry, making it crucial to track how companies like Eli Lilly adjust their workforce to stay competitive​ (FiercePharma).
Eli Lilly provides its employees with both stock options and Restricted Stock Units (RSUs) as part of its long-term incentive compensation. These RSUs are issued to employees and are subject to a vesting schedule, typically staggered over a period of time such as one, two, or three years. The goal is to retain employees by ensuring they receive full ownership of the stock only after they have fulfilled a specified period of service with the company​ (BusinessOwnerAdvisor). Stock options at Eli Lilly grant employees the opportunity to purchase company stock at a predetermined price, typically at the market value on the grant date. These options often vest over several years, with employees being able to exercise them once they are vested. RSUs, on the other hand, provide employees with company shares once they are fully vested, and these shares are taxed as ordinary income at the time of vesting. Employees are responsible for deciding whether to sell the shares immediately or hold onto them, which involves considering factors like tax implications and portfolio diversification​ (Eli Lilly and Company)​ (Eli Lilly and Company). RSUs and stock options at Eli Lilly are available to a broad group of employees, typically those in management and other key roles. The availability of these stock-based compensation forms reflects Eli Lilly's commitment to aligning employee incentives with company performance, and they play a crucial role in employee retention​ (BusinessOwnerAdvisor).
Eli Lilly has been making significant strides in its healthcare offerings, particularly through the launch of its digital platform, LillyDirect. This platform focuses on providing support for patients with chronic illnesses such as obesity, diabetes, and migraines. By enabling patients to access telehealth services and facilitating direct home delivery of certain medications, Eli Lilly has made healthcare more accessible and streamlined for patients dealing with these conditions. Additionally, LillyDirect offers educational resources and digital pharmacy solutions, making it easier for patients to refill prescriptions and receive medications at home. This initiative is crucial as it caters to a growing need for convenient healthcare, especially in light of the current economic pressures and the healthcare industry's shift towards digital solutions​ (PYMNTS.com)​ (PYMNTS.com). In the broader context of Eli Lilly's healthcare initiatives, the company's focus on digital healthcare aligns with current trends in healthcare delivery. The importance of platforms like LillyDirect is underscored by the economic and political pressures on the healthcare system, particularly as patients seek cost-effective and accessible treatments. Moreover, the growing political discourse around healthcare reform, coupled with tax implications for pharmaceutical benefits, further highlights the relevance of Lilly's approach. By offering services such as telehealth and home delivery, Eli Lilly is positioning itself at the forefront of healthcare innovation, which is critical for ensuring patient satisfaction in a competitive market​ (PYMNTS.com)​ (HealthCare ME&A Magazine).
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For more information you can reach the plan administrator for Eli Lilly at Lilly Corporate Center Indianapolis, IN 46285; or by calling them at (317) 276-2000.

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