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

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The Best States for The Southern Company Employees to Retire in 2023

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Healthcare Provider Update: The Southern Company's healthcare provider is generally managed through an employer-sponsored health plan, which typically relies on insurers such as Aetna or Cigna, although specific arrangements can vary. As we approach 2026, significant healthcare cost increases are anticipated due to a multitude of factors affecting the Affordable Care Act (ACA) marketplace. With some states projecting premium hikes of over 60%, the expiration of enhanced federal subsidies is expected to push monthly costs for many enrollees up by more than 75%. This unprecedented rise in premiums combined with ongoing inflation in medical costs, driven by higher hospital and drug prices, creates a complex financial landscape for consumers navigating their health insurance options in the coming year. Employers like The Southern Company may need to strategize effectively to mitigate the impact of these escalating costs on their employees' healthcare coverage and overall well-being. Click here to learn more

And The Southern Company employees wanting to maximize their retirement outcomes may want to look beyond their traditional pension locations, says Paul Bergeron, of the Retirement Group at Wealth Enhancement Group. Meeting with an experienced financial advisor can help map out a personalized retirement strategy that fits your financial and lifestyle needs, 'said Miller.'

The fiscal nuances across the states are critical for The Southern Company employees planning a retirement, says Tyson Mavar with the Retirement Group, a unit of Wealth Enhancement Group. Talking to a financial advisor can give you peace of mind about putting together a retirement plan that balances tax efficiency with quality of life, 'said.'

In this article we will discuss:

1. Retirement Value Variability Across States: How Taxes, cost of living and climate determine whether a state is right for retirement.

2. The Role of Financial Advisors: The benefits of collaborating with financial advisors to build a robust retirement plan and increase financial security.

3. Assessing States Based on Retirement Benefits: An analysis of the states which give retirees the best deal in terms of tax policies, cost of living and quality of life.

The Southern Company employees are among many who hope to retire comfortably at any age, in any occupation or location. In response, retirement does not necessarily have the same value across states. The state determines taxes, expense of living and climate - making some The Southern Company locations more desirable and suitable for retirement. And income and purchasing power can also differ in value across regions of the country. We will review the best states for retirement.

Maybe the idea of retiring spontaneously in a country with desirable characteristics appeals to The Southern Company employees. Yet you should still work with a financial advisor to build a solid retirement plan. Working with a financial advisor makes people feel more comfortable with their finances and could save 15% more in retirement 1, so The Southern Company employees might want to meet with a financial advisor at the Retirement Group and get a free cash flow analysis of their retirement plans.

Best States to Reduce Taxes in Retirement:

The Southern Company employees must consider limiting their tax liability when considering a comfortable retirement. The following states have no state income tax, no tax on retirement income or have substantially reduced the retirement income tax burden. No state income tax, but favorable sales, property, inheritance and estate taxes.

Alaska Florida Georgia Mississippi Nevada South Dakota Wyoming

Should any of those states not appeal to you, check out the next rank of states with lower taxes. The following states do not tax social security income, although the benefits are less enticing than those above. Washington, for example, has no state income tax but a 6.5% state sales tax. So when considering retirement in another state, The Southern Company employees need to weigh the pros and cons of taxation but also need to find a comfortable home.

Kiplinger found that Colorado would be the best state for The Southern Company employees to retire in 2023. Cost of living, tax friendliness, healthcare quality and quality of life were considered. Colorado ranked high for scenic beauty, outdoor recreation and favorable tax policies. It also has excellent healthcare facilities and a thriving cultural scene - a draw for retirees. Other top states for retirement in 2023 are Idaho, Utah, New Hampshire, and Virginia. These states combine affordability, low taxes and desirable amenities for a relaxing retirement.

Alabama Arkansas Colorado Delaware Idaho Illinois Kentucky Louisiana Michigan New Hampshire Oklahoma Pennsylvania South Carolina Tennessee Texas Virginia Washington West Virginia

Retiring in a new state is like traveling to unknown territory. As explorers pick their destination, so must The Southern Company employees pick the state where they will anchor their retirement. Consider this your quest for the perfect treasure trove. Good tax policies and a high quality of life in certain states are gems waiting to be mined. And each gem shines differently - in Colorado or Florida. As an explorer might consult maps and get insights, so too can a financial advisor be the compass you need to navigate this journey and find the treasures of retirement. They can help you navigate to the state that best combines financial benefits, lifestyle luxuries and fulfillment for your retirement years.

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Sources:

  1. Rethinking65 Editorial Team. 'WalletHub Release 2023 Best and Worst States to Retire.'  Rethinking65 , 23 Jan. 2023,  www.rethinking65.com/wallethub-release-2023-best-and-worst-states-to-retire .

  2. The Motley Fool Editorial Team. '13 Most Tax-Friendly States to Retire In 2023.'  The Motley Fool , 2023,  www.fool.com/retirement/2023/tax-friendly-states .

  3. Taylor, Heather. '10 Best States To Retire in for Affordability in 2023.'  GOBankingRates , 5 June 2023,  www.gobankingrates.com/retirement/planning/best-states-retire-affordability-2023 .

  4. Kiplinger Editorial Team. 'Best Places to Retire in the U.S.'  Kiplinger , 2025,  www.kiplinger.com/retirement/best-places-to-retire-in-the-us .

  5. Coughlin, Daniel. 'Best and Worst US States for Retirement in 2023.'  Lovemoney.com , 27 Apr. 2023,  www.lovemoney.com/guides/83139/best-worst-us-states-for-retirement-2023 .

What is the 401(k) plan offered by The Southern Company?

The Southern Company offers a 401(k) plan that allows employees to save for retirement through pre-tax contributions, which can grow tax-deferred until withdrawal.

How can I enroll in The Southern Company's 401(k) plan?

Employees can enroll in The Southern Company's 401(k) plan through the online benefits portal or by contacting the HR department for assistance.

Does The Southern Company match employee contributions to the 401(k) plan?

Yes, The Southern Company provides a matching contribution to employee 401(k) accounts, which helps enhance retirement savings.

What is the maximum contribution limit for The Southern Company's 401(k) plan?

The maximum contribution limit for The Southern Company's 401(k) plan is subject to IRS limits, which are updated annually. Employees should refer to the latest IRS guidelines for specific amounts.

Can I change my contribution percentage to The Southern Company's 401(k) plan?

Yes, employees can change their contribution percentage to The Southern Company's 401(k) plan at any time through the online benefits portal.

What investment options are available in The Southern Company's 401(k) plan?

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

When can I access my funds from The Southern Company's 401(k) plan?

Employees can access their funds from The Southern Company's 401(k) plan upon reaching retirement age, or under certain circumstances such as financial hardship or termination of employment.

Does The Southern Company offer financial education regarding the 401(k) plan?

Yes, The Southern Company provides financial education resources and workshops to help employees understand their 401(k) options and make informed investment decisions.

What happens to my 401(k) plan if I leave The Southern Company?

If you leave The Southern Company, you have several options for your 401(k) plan, including rolling it over to another retirement account, leaving it with The Southern Company, or cashing it out (subject to taxes and penalties).

Are there any fees associated with The Southern Company's 401(k) plan?

Yes, The Southern Company’s 401(k) plan may have administrative fees and investment-related expenses, which are disclosed 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.
The Southern Company offers a traditional defined benefit pension plan and a cash balance pension plan. The cash balance plan credits a percentage of the employee's salary annually to an account that grows with interest. Additionally, the company provides a defined contribution 401(k) plan with company matching contributions. The plan includes various investment options such as target-date funds and mutual funds. Financial planning resources and tools are available to help employees manage their retirement savings.
Operational Restructuring: The Southern Company has not announced major layoffs recently but continues to focus on strategic initiatives to streamline operations and enhance efficiency. The company has been investing in clean energy projects and expanding its income-qualified discount programs to assist more customers. These efforts are part of Southern Company's commitment to sustainability and operational excellence (Sources: Intellizence, Southern Company).
The Southern Company offers RSUs as part of its equity compensation plan. These RSUs vest over a specified period, providing shares upon vesting. Stock options are also available, allowing employees to purchase shares at a fixed price and benefit from potential stock price appreciation.
Southern Company has been actively enhancing its employee healthcare benefits to meet the demands of the current economic, investment, tax, and political environment. In 2022, Southern Company focused on providing comprehensive healthcare plans that include medical, dental, vision, and various wellness programs. These initiatives are designed to support the overall well-being of employees, ensuring they have access to necessary resources to maintain their health. The company also emphasized the importance of mental health by integrating mental health support into their Employee Assistance Programs (EAP), reflecting a broader commitment to holistic employee care. In 2023, Southern Company continued to expand its healthcare offerings by implementing advanced digital health solutions and increasing access to telemedicine services. These enhancements are part of the company's broader strategy to support a flexible and resilient workforce. Additionally, Southern Company has placed a strong emphasis on sustainability and community engagement, which includes initiatives aimed at promoting environmental stewardship and supporting local communities. By investing in robust healthcare and wellness programs, Southern Company aims to attract and retain top talent, ensuring long-term business success and resilience amid economic uncertainties.
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For more information you can reach the plan administrator for The Southern Company at 1932 wynnton road Columbus, GA 31999; or by calling them at 800-227-4756.

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

*Please see disclaimer for more information

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