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Understanding Creditor Protections forEnergizer Holdings Employees

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'Energizer Holdings employees must be aware that while ERISA-qualified plans provide significant protection from creditors, non-ERISA accounts like IRAs are more vulnerable, and it's crucial to understand state-specific laws to ensure full asset security as you approach retirement,' says Tyson Mavar, a representative of The Retirement Group, a division of Wealth Enhancement Group.

'As retirement approaches, Energizer Holdings employees should consider not only the strength of their ERISA-qualified plans but also the potential vulnerabilities of non-ERISA accounts, and seek guidance from legal and financial experts to ensure their assets are fully protected,' advises Tyson Mavar, a representative of The Retirement Group, a division of Wealth Enhancement Group.

In this article, we will discuss:

The protection of retirement savings under ERISA-qualified plans.
The limitations of ERISA protection, including potential risks from creditors.
The role of state laws in protecting non-ERISA retirement accounts like IRAs.

For employees at Energizer Holdings, an important issue is the security of retirement savings, especially when employees approach the retirement age or are retired. It is generally assumed that all retirement assets are protected from creditors. Nevertheless, the extent to which these assets are protected differs greatly depending on the type of retirement plan and the laws of the state. In this article, we explore the specifics of asset protection.

Plans Covered by ERISA: A Stronghold Against Creditors
Most of the retirement plans that meet the eligibility requirements of the Employee Retirement Income Security Act (ERISA) are generally safe. Such ERISA-qualified plans are also usually safe from the reach of creditors in the event of bankruptcy or civil suits. Importantly, this protection is maintained even if the company sponsoring the plan goes bankrupt. These assets are usually out of the reach of personal creditors.

To meet the ERISA requirements, a retirement plan must be offered by an employer or an employee organization and must meet certain federal requirements regarding membership reporting, funding, and vesting. Typical ERISA-qualified plans include profit-sharing plans, pensions, deferred compensation plans, and 401(k)s.

Furthermore, ERISA applies to some employee health and welfare benefits, such as:

Hospital, surgical, and medical coverage through Health Maintenance Organization (HMO) plans.
Health care Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs) and Health Reimbursement Arrangements (HRAs).
Dental and vision plans.
Prescription drug programs.
Disability insurance.
Specific welfare benefit plans under sections 419(a)(f)(6) and 419(e).

The anti-alienation clause in these plans prohibits the assignment of benefits and thus keeps the assets beyond the reach of most creditors.

Weaknesses of ERISA-Qualified Plans
Although they are very strong, ERISA plans are not foolproof. They can be subject to claims by:

A former spouse for child support or divorce settlements, with a Qualified Domestic Relations Order (QDRO).
The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) for any unpaid federal income taxes.
The federal government in cases involving fines and penalties for crimes.
Creditors in the event that a plan participant breaches the terms of the plan.

The State of Non-ERISA Plans
The protection of retirement accounts that are not covered by ERISA, such as traditional and Roth IRAs, is not uniform. Some 403(b) plans offered by government or religious organizations may also not be ERISA plans.

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BAPCPA provides some protection for IRA funds in bankruptcy, but such funds are not protected by ERISA.

State Laws and IRA Security
The protection of IRAs and other non-ERISA plans against creditors can vary greatly by state. Some offer little protection, while others offer almost none. It is imperative to know these nuances in order to manage the risk of potential creditor claims. Energizer Holdings employees are encouraged to seek the advice of experienced local attorneys in order to navigate these complex legal situations.

Conclusion
The legality of protecting retirement funds from creditors depends on the type of retirement account, state laws, and certain exemptions. Although most employer-sponsored retirement plans are relatively safe, the legal framework is complex, and it is advisable to seek legal advice early to maximize the protection of retirement assets.

Sources:

Mavar, Tyson. The Retirement Group, a Division of Wealth Enhancement Group . Interview. January 2025.

'ERISA: A Guide to Employee Retirement Income Security Act.' U.S. Department of Labor , 2024, www.dol.gov/general/topic/retirement/erisa . Accessed 31 Jan. 2025.

'How Bankruptcy Affects Retirement Accounts.' National Bankruptcy Forum , 2023, www.nationalbankruptcyforum.com/affects-of-bankruptcy-on-retirement-accounts . Accessed 31 Jan. 2025.

'State Laws and IRA Protection.' Retirement Law Journal , vol. 12, no. 4, 2024, pp. 47-52.

'Understanding Qualified Domestic Relations Orders (QDROs).' Internal Revenue Service , 2023, www.irs.gov/retirement-plans/plan-participant-employee/understanding-qualified-domestic-relations-orders . Accessed 31 Jan. 2025.

What type of retirement savings plan does Energizer Holdings offer to its employees?

Energizer Holdings offers a 401(k) retirement savings plan to its employees.

Does Energizer Holdings provide a company match for contributions made to the 401(k) plan?

Yes, Energizer Holdings provides a company match for employee contributions to the 401(k) plan, subject to specific terms and conditions.

What is the eligibility requirement to participate in the Energizer Holdings 401(k) plan?

Employees of Energizer Holdings are typically eligible to participate in the 401(k) plan after completing a specified period of service, as outlined in the plan documents.

Can employees of Energizer Holdings choose how their 401(k) contributions are invested?

Yes, employees at Energizer Holdings can choose from a variety of investment options for their 401(k) contributions.

How does Energizer Holdings ensure that employees are informed about their 401(k) plan options?

Energizer Holdings provides educational materials, workshops, and access to financial advisors to help employees understand their 401(k) plan options.

Is there a vesting schedule for the company match in the Energizer Holdings 401(k) plan?

Yes, there is a vesting schedule for the company match in the Energizer Holdings 401(k) plan, which determines how much of the match employees are entitled to based on their years of service.

What is the maximum contribution limit for the Energizer Holdings 401(k) plan?

The maximum contribution limit for the Energizer Holdings 401(k) plan is in line with IRS guidelines, which may change annually.

Can employees of Energizer Holdings take loans against their 401(k) accounts?

Yes, Energizer Holdings allows employees to take loans against their 401(k) accounts under certain conditions outlined in the plan.

What happens to an employee's 401(k) account if they leave Energizer Holdings?

If an employee leaves Energizer Holdings, they have several options for their 401(k) account, including cashing out, rolling it over to another retirement account, or leaving it in the Energizer Holdings plan if allowed.

Does Energizer Holdings offer any resources for retirement planning?

Yes, Energizer Holdings provides resources and tools for retirement planning, including access to financial advisors and online calculators.

With the current political climate we are in it is important to keep up with current news and remain knowledgeable about your benefits.

Energizer Holdings provides its employees with a retirement plan that includes both a pension plan and a 401(k) plan, designed to help employees secure their financial future. The company offers the Energizer Holdings, Inc. Retirement Plan, which has gone through notable changes in recent years. In 2023, Energizer Holdings completed a pension plan annuity buyout, resulting in a $50.2 million recognition of unamortized actuarial losses (Energizer Holdings - Investors). For the 401(k) plan, Energizer Holdings offers a match of up to 6%, where the company matches 100% of employee contributions up to this limit. Employees can also make additional contributions beyond this match, and for employees over 50 years of age, catch-up contributions are available. The 401(k) plan is known to have typical features such as tax-deferral benefits and company contributions

Restructuring and Layoffs: Energizer Holdings has announced a significant restructuring initiative aimed at streamlining operations and reducing costs. This plan includes a reduction in workforce across several departments. The company has stated that these layoffs are necessary to improve efficiency and profitability amidst a challenging economic environment. It is crucial to follow this development due to its potential impact on employees and the overall company strategy in response to current market pressures.

Energizer Holdings offers stock options and RSUs to its executive team and key employees. The company uses the acronym SO for Stock Options and RSU for Restricted Stock Units. Specifics about these benefits are outlined in their annual proxy statements and are updated annually.

Energizer Holdings: Healthcare Benefits Information 1. Company Official Website: Website: Energizer Holdings Careers Healthcare Benefits: Energizer Holdings offers a comprehensive benefits package including medical, dental, and vision insurance. They also provide a wellness program that includes various health-related resources and preventive care initiatives. 2. Glassdoor: Website: Glassdoor - Energizer Holdings Benefits Healthcare Benefits: Employees have reported access to standard healthcare benefits including medical, dental, and vision coverage. Glassdoor reviews suggest that the healthcare plan is competitive but varies by location and employee level. 3. Indeed: Website: Indeed - Energizer Holdings Benefits Healthcare Benefits: According to Indeed, Energizer Holdings provides a range of healthcare benefits including medical, dental, and vision insurance. The company also offers a health savings account (HSA) and flexible spending accounts (FSA). 4. LinkedIn: Website: LinkedIn - Energizer Holdings Benefits Healthcare Benefits: LinkedIn mentions that Energizer Holdings offers healthcare benefits as part of their overall employee benefits package. Details on specific plans or coverage are not extensively detailed but include basic medical, dental, and vision options. 5. HR & Employee Benefits Websites: Website: Payscale - Energizer Holdings Benefits Healthcare Benefits: Payscale provides information on Energizer Holdings' benefits including medical, dental, and vision insurance. They also highlight employee feedback on the quality of these benefits.

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For more information you can reach the plan administrator for Energizer Holdings at 533 Maryville University Dr, Suite 200 St. Louis, MO 63141; or by calling them at (314) 985-2000.

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