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As Eversource Energy employees approach retirement, it's crucial to address the need for long-term care.
Government projections indicate that nearly 70% of older adults will require some form of long-term assistance.
Despite this, a survey from the Kaiser Family Foundation reveals that many have not prepared for this eventuality.
The Cost of Long-Term Care
For employees at Eversource Energy, understanding the financial implications of long-term care is vital.
A Genworth Cost of Care survey
reports that the average annual cost for a private room in a nursing home exceeds $100,000, while home health aides average over $60,000 per year. Since Medicare does not cover these expenses, options such as personal savings, hybrid insurance policies, annuities with long-term care components, traditional insurance, or Medicaid (post asset depletion) become necessary considerations.
Family Impact
The financial and emotional toll of unprepared long-term care can disrupt family stability. This section offers practical tips for Eversource Energy employees on managing these potential costs.
Conventional Insurance for Long-Term Care
For Eversource Energy's workforce, obtaining long-term care insurance requires good health, timely application, and the financial ability to sustain premiums. However, only a small fraction of those eligible opt for this insurance.
The Price of Long-Term Health Insurance
Purchasing long-term care insurance during one's forties or early fifties can result in significantly lower premiums. With age, not only do premiums rise, but the likelihood of being denied coverage increases as well.
Methods for Cutting Costs
Eversource Energy employees might find financial relief in purchasing insurance early, choosing policies with a joint benefit option for couples, or opting for a longer elimination period to reduce premium costs. Annual premium payments also offer cost savings.
Benefits for Eversource Energy Employees
Some employers, may offer long-term care insurance as part of their benefits package, which often remains portable after employment ends.
Hybrid Insurance Policies
The market has seen a shift towards hybrid policies that combine life insurance with long-term care benefits. These are accessible but typically more expensive than standalone policies.
Long-Term Care Rider Annuities
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Annuities with a long-term care rider provide a hybrid solution that may suit some retirees better, offering payments irrespective of long-term care needs and usually featuring more lenient health requirements.
Independent Insurance
Affluent retirees might consider self-insuring, requiring substantial liquid assets to cover potential long-term care costs. It's important for Eversource Energy employees to plan for the tax implications of using retirement savings for these costs.
Health Savings Accounts (HSAs)
HSAs offer a tax-advantaged way to save for long-term care expenses, suitable for Eversource Energy employees with high-deductible health plans. These accounts allow for tax-free growth and withdrawals when used for qualified medical expenses.
Family Guidance
Many retirees will rely on family for care, as shown by the case of Nancy Yung, whose family's efforts epitomize the crucial role relatives play in long-term care.
In Summary
Planning for long-term care is akin to preparing a safety net for retirement, essential for mitigating the impact of rising housing and food costs. Eversource Energy employees should consult with financial advisors to explore all available options to secure their future financially. This planning is not just about risk management—it's about assisting in a stable and shielded path into retirement.
What is the Eversource Energy 401(k) Savings Plan?
The Eversource Energy 401(k) Savings Plan is a retirement savings plan that allows employees to save a portion of their salary on a pre-tax or after-tax basis, helping them build a financial foundation for retirement.
How can I enroll in the Eversource Energy 401(k) Savings Plan?
Employees can enroll in the Eversource Energy 401(k) Savings Plan through the company's benefits portal or by contacting the HR department for assistance.
What is the employer match for the Eversource Energy 401(k) Savings Plan?
Eversource Energy offers a competitive employer match to encourage employee participation in the 401(k) Savings Plan. Specific matching contributions can vary, so it's best to check the plan documentation for details.
Can I change my contribution rate to the Eversource Energy 401(k) Savings Plan?
Yes, employees can change their contribution rate to the Eversource Energy 401(k) Savings Plan at any time through the benefits portal or by contacting HR.
What investment options are available in the Eversource Energy 401(k) Savings Plan?
The Eversource Energy 401(k) Savings Plan offers a variety of investment options, including mutual funds, target-date funds, and company stock, allowing employees to tailor their investment strategy.
Is there a vesting schedule for the Eversource Energy 401(k) Savings Plan?
Yes, the Eversource Energy 401(k) Savings Plan has a vesting schedule for employer contributions. Employees should refer to the plan documents for specific details on the vesting timeline.
What happens to my Eversource Energy 401(k) Savings Plan if I leave the company?
If you leave Eversource Energy, you have several options regarding your 401(k) Savings Plan, including rolling over your balance to another retirement account, cashing out, or leaving it in the plan if permitted.
Can I take a loan from my Eversource Energy 401(k) Savings Plan?
Yes, Eversource Energy allows employees to take loans from their 401(k) Savings Plan, subject to certain conditions and limits. Employees should review the plan's loan policy for more information.
Are there hardship withdrawals available in the Eversource Energy 401(k) Savings Plan?
Yes, Eversource Energy permits hardship withdrawals from the 401(k) Savings Plan under specific circumstances. Employees must meet certain criteria to qualify for a hardship withdrawal.
How often can I review my Eversource Energy 401(k) Savings Plan statements?
Employees can review their Eversource Energy 401(k) Savings Plan statements quarterly, and they can also access their account information online at any time.