What GEO Group Employees Need to Consider Before Making the Leap to Retire Abroad

Healthcare Provider Update: Healthcare Provider for GEO Group GEO Group, a prominent provider of correctional and community-based services, often relies on a variety of managed care organizations and healthcare service providers to address the healthcare needs of the populations they serve within correctional facilities and community programs. Specific partnerships may vary based on location and operational requirements, but they typically engage with well-established healthcare networks to deliver comprehensive medical, dental, and mental health services. Potential Healthcare Cost Increases in 2026 Healthcare costs are anticipated to surge significantly in 2026, driven by a convergence of factors including rising medical expenses and the potential expiration of enhanced federal premium subsidies under the Affordable Care Act (ACA). Many states are looking at premium hikes upwards of 60%, with over 22 million marketplace enrollees potentially facing more than a 75% increase in out-of-pocket premiums. This situation is exacerbated by ongoing trends of elevated hospital, physician, and drug costs, as well as systemic pressures from labor shortages within healthcare that collectively strain the financial landscape for both insurers and consumers alike. Understanding these impending changes is crucial for effective financial planning ahead of the 2026 healthcare landscape. Click here to learn more

For example, GEO Group employees planning on moving overseas need to have a clear plan of action to overcome the challenges of acquiring residency and citizenship in another country,' according to Brent Wolf from The Retirement Group at Wealth Enhancement Group.

Kevin Landis of The Retirement Group, a division of Wealth Enhancement Group, explains why detailed planning is crucial for GEO Group employees who intend to retire abroad. However,

In this article we will discuss:

1. The complexity of obtaining residency or citizenship abroad: Discussing the legal, financial, and cultural issues that are involved in moving overseas for GEO Group employees.

2. The necessity of professional advice and planning: Emphasizing the importance of thorough preparation and professional advice to ensure a smooth transition to retiring abroad.

3. Tax advantages and financial planning for retirees: Explaining the possible tax advantages that are available through international treaties and the strategic financial planning that needs to be done for the retirement savings of GEO Group employees.

Simply for political, economic, and social reasons, many GEO Group employees are looking to secure citizenship or residency in other countries if the United States is not as attractive as it once was. But, getting residency in another country and, perhaps, citizenship is not as simple as just buying a plane ticket and setting an itinerary.

This is because there are many processes that may take a few years to accomplish at times. The more people who are considering these options, the more difficult these choices become. It is therefore crucial to identify the legal, financial, and cultural implications that arise in order to ensure a smooth transition to a new home overseas before embarking on this journey.

Without a proper plan and some professional advice, it can be quite a challenge to switch gears and retire during your tenure at GEO Group.

The impact of potential tax advantages when retiring abroad will definitely affect your financial position. Many countries, including the United States, have tax treaties that prevent income from being taxed twice. For instance, pensioners are attracted to Portugal by the Non-Habitual Resident (NHR) regime that offers special tax concessions for up to 10 years.

You can enhance your retirement benefits by taking advantage of these perks and seeking the advice of a tax specialist. The IRS notes that because these treaties can be very different it is important to research and seek the advice of a professional (IRS, 2023). These advantages must be used by GEO Group employees to enhance their retirement.

Expatriating and retiring is a process of planning a long and beautiful road trip. Just as you would not travel without a map, a well-maintained car, and knowledge of your location, GEO Group employees who are retiring abroad need to plan carefully.

Featured Video

Articles you may find interesting:

Step by step, you will be guided on how to make your transition to your new home easier, from explaining cultural differences and tax benefits to helping you understand the legal and financial environment. Just as a road trip opens new views and experiences, retirement abroad presents a world of possibilities for a happy and comfortable retirement.

Sources:

1. The Warren Street Wealth Advisors Team. 'GEO Group and Large Company Employees.' Warren Street Wealth Advisors, 3 Feb. 2025, Accessed from warrenstreetwealth.com.

2. 'US Taxes for Americans Retiring Abroad in 2025.' MyExpatTaxes, 20 Nov. 2024, Accessed 3 Feb. 2025 from myexpattaxes.com.

3. Toms, Mary, CPA, MBA, MS. 'US Tax Implications of Retiring Abroad: What You Need to Know.' PBMares, 10 Dec. 2024, Accessed 3 Feb. 2025 from pbmares.com.

4. 'Financial Planning for US Expatriates.' The Expat Financial, Accessed 3 Feb. 2025 from expatfinancial.com.

5. 'Retiring Overseas: What You Need to Know About Your US Taxes and Financial Planning.' Expat CPA, Accessed 3 Feb. 2025 from expatcpa.com.

   What type of retirement plan does GEO Group offer to its employees?

   GEO Group offers a 401(k) retirement savings plan to help employees save for their future.

   Does GEO Group match employee contributions to the 401(k) plan?

   Yes, GEO Group provides a matching contribution to employee 401(k) accounts, subject to specific terms and conditions.

   What is the eligibility requirement for GEO Group employees to participate in the 401(k) plan?

   Employees of GEO Group are typically eligible to participate in the 401(k) plan after completing a specified period of service, usually within the first year of employment.

   How can GEO Group employees enroll in the 401(k) plan?

   GEO Group employees can enroll in the 401(k) plan through the company’s HR portal or by contacting the HR department for assistance.

   What types of investment options are available in GEO Group's 401(k) plan?

   GEO Group's 401(k) plan offers a variety of investment options, including mutual funds, target-date funds, and other investment vehicles.

   Can GEO Group employees change their contribution amounts to the 401(k) plan?

   Yes, GEO Group employees can adjust their contribution amounts to the 401(k) plan at any time, subject to plan rules.

   What is the maximum contribution limit for GEO Group's 401(k) plan?

   The maximum contribution limit for GEO Group's 401(k) plan aligns with the IRS guidelines, which may change annually.

   Does GEO Group allow employees to take loans against their 401(k) savings?

   Yes, GEO Group permits employees to take loans against their 401(k) savings, subject to specific terms and conditions outlined in the plan.

   What happens to GEO Group employees' 401(k) accounts if they leave the company?

   If GEO Group employees leave the company, they can choose to roll over their 401(k) account to another retirement plan, cash out, or leave the funds in the GEO Group plan, depending on eligibility.

   Are there any fees associated with GEO Group's 401(k) plan?

   Yes, there may be administrative fees and investment-related expenses associated with GEO Group's 401(k) plan, 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 GEO Group offers both a 401(k) retirement plan and other employee pension-related benefits. For its 401(k) plan, GEO Group allows employees to contribute a portion of their income either pre-tax or after-tax (Roth) into a retirement account. The company provides a matching contribution, typically matching 50% of employee contributions up to 5%, depending on tenure and contribution levels​ (The GEO Group - Official Website). This 401(k) plan is referred to as "The GEO Save 401(k) Plan," and is administered through Empower. Employees are eligible for the matching contributions after three years of service​ (The GEO Group - Official Website). As for pensions, GEO Group does not offer a traditional defined benefit pension plan. Instead, the focus is on the 401(k) plan as the primary retirement savings option​ (The GEO Group - Official Website). The company uses internal acronyms such as EAP (Employee Assistance Program) and HMO (Health Maintenance Organization) when referring to their employee benefits package, which includes various health and life insurance options alongside the retirement plan​
   Restructuring and Layoffs: In 2023, GEO Group announced a significant restructuring plan aimed at reducing operational costs due to declining demand for private prison services. This restructuring involved the closure of several facilities and a reduction in workforce. The move is part of a broader strategy to adapt to changing policies and market conditions. This is important to address because of the current economic environment, which has seen increased scrutiny and policy changes impacting private correctional facilities.
   Example Structure for Stock Options and RSUs GEO Group (2022) Stock Options & RSUs: GEO Group provided stock options and RSUs as part of its employee compensation packages in 2022. Specific details about the number of options and RSUs allocated can be found in the 2022 Annual Report, page 25. Eligibility: Employees at various levels were eligible, including executives and senior managers. Refer to the Compensation Discussion & Analysis section of the 2022 10-K filing, page 32. GEO Group (2023) Stock Options & RSUs: In 2023, GEO Group continued to offer stock options and RSUs to align employee interests with shareholder value. The specifics of the stock option plans and RSUs are detailed in the 2023 Proxy Statement, page 18. Eligibility: The allocation was targeted primarily at senior management and key personnel. For detailed eligibility criteria, consult the 2023 Annual Report, page 29. GEO Group (2024) Stock Options & RSUs: GEO Group’s 2024 offerings included an updated stock option plan and additional RSUs to incentivize performance. Detailed information is available in the 2024 10-K filing, page 30. Eligibility: Stock options and RSUs were made available to senior executives and other designated employees. Refer to the Compensation section in the 2024 Proxy Statement, page 35.
   Official Website: Visit GEO Group's official website to locate their health benefits information for employees. This often includes plan details, coverage options, and any recent updates. Corporate Filings: Check recent annual reports, 10-K filings, and other corporate documents that might detail employee benefits. News Websites: Look for recent news articles related to GEO Group’s employee benefits, particularly focusing on healthcare changes or updates. Industry Publications: Consult industry-specific publications or websites that might discuss GEO Group’s health benefits. Employee Review Websites: Search sites like Glassdoor or Indeed for employee reviews that might provide insights into changes in health benefits or issues faced by employees.