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Stepan Employees: Discover the Hidden Potential of Your 401(k) for a Brighter Retirement

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Healthcare Provider Update: Stepan provides health insurance through Blue Cross Blue Shield of Illinois, along with dental, vision, and wellness programs 3. As ACA premiums surge, Stepans employer-sponsored plans may offer more predictable costs and better coverage, especially for employees with chronic care needs. Click here to learn more

  • This translates into the need for comprehensive financial planning and education as the challenge of ensuring a secure retirement for Stepan employees. For example, Michael Corgiat is a financial advisor at The Retirement Group, a division of Wealth Enhancement Group.

    For Stepan employees, the way to retirement is full of financial uncertainties and therefore needs planning. To this end, the help of experienced professionals like Brent Wolf from The Retirement Group, a division of the Wealth Enhancement Group, should be sought.

  • In this article, we will discuss:

  • 1. The challenges of the current American retirement system, and how it is based on individual financial contributions and lacks financial literacy.

  • 2. Some specific issues that Stepan employees face, such as the need for better employer-sponsored retirement plans and the need for financial education.

  • 3. The effects of under-saving for retirement on the population as a whole, according to recent studies which show that a large proportion of Americans are unprepared for retirement.

  • The problem is that the financially illiterate average person will never be able to save enough to fund their retirement. So how do you pay for it if you’re not sure how much something will cost or how long you’ll need it? That is the present American retirement system, and many people think it is wrong. Is the American dream of retirement unattainable for Stepan employees in an environment where the normal individual picks up the majority of the cost?

  • This is because retirement planning is complicated due to financial ignorance and mismanagement, increasing healthcare costs, and extended life expectancy. It is important for Stepan employees to overcome these challenges through their employer’s retirement plans and financial literacy programs. While many people struggle with their 401(k)s, according to recent studies, a vast majority of Americans have even fewer retirement savings.

  • The Employee Benefit Research Institute (EBRI) issued a 2023 study indicating that 39% of households with adults aged 40 or over have no retirement savings. This is a very worrying figure which underscores the importance of sound financial planning and education. It means that Stepan employees can ensure a better retirement future by making sure they keep contributing to their 401(k)s and seeking the advice of professionals.

  • It is like being on a long car journey with no GPS or map. In regard to their retirement plans, a large number of Americans are confused and have low financial literacy or resources. However, some people may think that their 401(k) is doing badly, but it is still better than others whose cars have not even been started.

  • You can think of it as having an older car that has been well-maintained. The road ahead is steep, with nearly 40% of households having no retirement savings. This means that for Stepan employees, financial planning and education are crucial to a secure retirement, just as a good navigation system would bring you to your destination safely.

    Sources:

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1. The State of American Retirement Savings: How the shift to 401(k)s has increased gaps in retirement preparedness based on income, race, ethnicity, education, and marital status. In 2016, the Economic Policy Institute issued a report, which can be found at  www.epi.org/publication/retirement-in-america/#charts.

2. Margo. 'Are Americans Financially Educated on Retirement Savings?' On December 1, 2022, from blog.ssa.gov/are-americans-financially-educated-on-retirement-savings.

3. Clark, Robert L., and Olivia S. Mitchell. The effectiveness of employer-sponsored financial education programs. Journal of Financial Literacy and Wellbeing, Cambridge Core, 2023, The author of this paper argues that © Cambridge University Press. All rights reserved. To read more, please visit  https://www.cambridge.org/core/journals/journal-of-financial-literacy-and-wellbeing/effectiveness-of-employer-provided-financial-education-programs .

4. 'A Dream Deferred: An Analysis of the Current Retirement Landscape and the Changes Needed to Save the American Retirement Dream.' In 2023, the American Bar Association published ABA reporting ABA reporting.

5. Jeszeck, Charles A. The Nation's Retirement System: A Comprehensive Re-evaluation Is Needed to Better Promote Future Retirement Security. As of 2023, the U.S. Government Accountability Office has issued a report called The GAO's report can be found at  www.gao.gov/nations-retirement-system-2023-report .

What is the purpose of the 401(k) plan at Stepan?

The purpose of the 401(k) plan at Stepan is to help employees save for retirement by allowing them to contribute a portion of their salary on a tax-deferred basis.

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

Stepan employees can enroll in the 401(k) plan by completing the enrollment form provided by the HR department or through the company’s benefits portal.

Does Stepan offer a company match on 401(k) contributions?

Yes, Stepan offers a company match on 401(k) contributions, which helps employees maximize their retirement savings.

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

The maximum contribution limit for the Stepan 401(k) plan is in accordance with IRS guidelines, which are updated annually.

Can Stepan employees change their contribution percentage at any time?

Yes, Stepan employees can change their contribution percentage at any time, subject to the plan's guidelines.

What investment options are available in the Stepan 401(k) plan?

The Stepan 401(k) plan offers a variety of investment options, including mutual funds, target-date funds, and other investment vehicles.

When can Stepan employees take a loan against their 401(k) savings?

Stepan employees can take a loan against their 401(k) savings after meeting specific eligibility criteria set forth in the plan documents.

What happens to my Stepan 401(k) if I leave the company?

If you leave Stepan, you have several options for your 401(k), including rolling it over to an IRA or another employer’s plan, or cashing it out, subject to taxes and penalties.

Does Stepan provide any educational resources about the 401(k) plan?

Yes, Stepan provides educational resources and workshops to help employees understand their 401(k) options and make informed investment decisions.

Are there any fees associated with the Stepan 401(k) plan?

Yes, there may be administrative fees associated with the Stepan 401(k) plan, which are disclosed in the plan documents.

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For more information you can reach the plan administrator for Stepan at , ; or by calling them at .

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