What Loews Employees Need to Consider Before Making the Leap to Retire Abroad

Healthcare Provider Update: Healthcare Provider for Loews Loews Corporation utilizes Aetna for its employee healthcare coverage. Aetna is known for providing a range of health insurance services, including employer-sponsored insurance, which aligns with Loews' needs for its workforce. Potential Healthcare Cost Increases in 2026 As we look ahead to 2026, healthcare costs are projected to escalate significantly, driven largely by the potential expiration of enhanced federal premium subsidies and rising medical expenses. Many states, particularly New York and Arkansas, are witnessing proposed premium hikes exceeding 60%, reflecting a broader average increase of 20% across the ACA Marketplace. This alarming trend forecasts that over 22 million marketplace enrollees could see their premiums spike by more than 75%, making it increasingly challenging for families to afford comprehensive healthcare coverage. Click here to learn more

For example, Loews 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 Loews 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 Loews 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 Loews employees.

Simply for political, economic, and social reasons, many Loews 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 Loews.

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 Loews 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, Loews employees who are retiring abroad need to plan carefully.

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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. 'Loews 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 is the purpose of the 401(k) plan offered by Loews?

   The 401(k) plan offered by Loews is designed to help employees save for retirement by allowing them to contribute a portion of their salary on a pre-tax basis.

   How can I enroll in Loews' 401(k) plan?

   Employees can enroll in Loews' 401(k) plan by accessing the benefits portal or contacting the HR department for assistance with the enrollment process.

   Does Loews offer a company match for the 401(k) contributions?

   Yes, Loews offers a company match for employee contributions to the 401(k) plan, which helps to enhance overall retirement savings.

   What is the maximum contribution limit for Loews' 401(k) plan?

   The maximum contribution limit for Loews' 401(k) plan is in accordance with IRS guidelines, which can change annually. Employees should check the latest limits for accuracy.

   Can I change my contribution percentage to Loews' 401(k) plan at any time?

   Yes, employees can change their contribution percentage to Loews' 401(k) plan at any time, typically through the benefits portal or by contacting HR.

   What investment options are available in Loews' 401(k) plan?

   Loews' 401(k) plan offers a variety of investment options, including mutual funds, target-date funds, and other investment vehicles to suit different risk tolerances.

   When can I start withdrawing from my Loews 401(k) plan?

   Employees can typically start withdrawing from their Loews 401(k) plan at age 59½, but specific rules and penalties may apply depending on the circumstances.

   Are there any fees associated with Loews' 401(k) plan?

   Yes, there may be fees associated with Loews' 401(k) plan, which can include administrative fees and investment management fees. Employees should review the plan documents for details.

   How does Loews communicate changes to the 401(k) plan?

   Loews communicates changes to the 401(k) plan through official company emails, newsletters, and updates on the benefits portal to ensure all employees are informed.

   Can I take a loan against my 401(k) with Loews?

   Yes, Loews allows employees to take loans against their 401(k) savings, subject to specific terms and conditions outlined 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.
   Loews offers a defined contribution plan (401(k)) to its employees, allowing them to save for retirement. Employees can contribute a percentage of their salary, with limits set by the IRS, which have increased from $20,500 in 2022 to $22,500 in 2023 and $23,000 in 2024. Employees aged 50 and above can make catch-up contributions, which are $6,500 in 2022 and $7,500 in 2023 and 2024​ (Pension Rights Center)​ (CliftonLarsonAllen). These plans are structured to encourage long-term savings, with Loews often matching employee contributions up to a certain percentage, enhancing retirement security​ (CliftonLarsonAllen). The company also provides a defined benefit pension plan for certain long-term employees. This pension plan has age and years of service requirements, typically requiring employees to be at least 65 years old with a set number of years of service to receive full benefits. The pension formula is generally based on final average pay and years of service​ (CliftonLarsonAllen)​ (My Lowe's Life). For both the pension and 401(k) plans, Loews has specific terminology and acronyms, such as "final average pay" for pension calculations and "vesting periods" for the 401(k) plan. These details help employees understand how their benefits are calculated and when they become eligible​
   Loews Corporation has been navigating significant corporate restructuring, leading to workforce reductions across several of its subsidiaries, particularly in the insurance and energy sectors. Alongside these layoffs, Loews has implemented changes in employee benefit structures, with a stronger emphasis on enhanced 401(k) plans replacing traditional pension offerings. Employees who were previously enrolled in defined benefit pensions have seen modifications, including the cessation of new contributions to these pensions, in favor of shifting toward defined contribution plans, such as 401(k)s.
   For Loews, stock options and Restricted Stock Units (RSUs) are a significant part of employee compensation, especially in fostering long-term engagement and retention. Loews typically offers time-based RSUs to a select group of employees, with vesting periods linked to tenure at the company. RSUs at Loews grant employees shares of company stock once they have met the vesting conditions, such as staying with the company for a specified number of years. In 2022, 2023, and 2024, Loews continued to issue stock options and RSUs as a key component of their long-term incentive plans (LTI). These incentives are available to employees based on their role within the company, particularly to senior management and executives. RSUs are vested over a set period, and employees must meet specific performance or tenure criteria to receive their shares. Once the shares vest, employees have the option to either hold or sell them, though this is subject to Loews’ trading policies. The RSU grants at Loews are taxed as ordinary income upon vesting, and the company withholds federal income tax at the time of vesting to meet IRS requirements. Additionally, employees who qualify for Loews' RSUs may also benefit from capital gains tax treatment on any price appreciation of the stock after the vesting period.
   Health Plan Design & Cost: Loews has incorporated High Deductible Health Plans (HDHPs) into their offerings, which are becoming increasingly popular among employees due to their lower premium costs but higher deductibles. This is aligned with a broader industry trend, as HDHP enrollment has risen in 2023 despite significant increases in premiums​ (Stephens). Healthcare-Related Terms and Acronyms: Loews employees frequently encounter terms such as HDHP (High Deductible Health Plan), PPO (Preferred Provider Organization), and HSA (Health Savings Account). The HSA is particularly relevant for employees enrolled in HDHPs, offering tax advantages for medical expenses​ (Loews). Recent Employee Healthcare News: In recent years, Loews has been proactive in responding to healthcare inflation. In 2023, Loews adjusted its plan designs to mitigate rising costs, with a focus on prescription drug tiers and other cost-containment strategies. This reflects a broader trend among employers to manage healthcare spending through strategic plan modifications, particularly for small and midsize businesses