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Why Kirby Employees Can Thrive in Retirement Without a Bucket List

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Healthcare Provider Update: Offers medical, dental, and vision insurance, along with FSAs, supplemental life insurance, and an Employee Assistance Program1. As ACA premiums rise and subsidies expire, Kirbys employer-sponsored plans offer a more stable and cost-effective alternative to marketplace coverage, especially for families. Click here to learn more

The first few years of retirement are frequently a time of transitions for many, including those leaving Kirby. It is a critical period that can influence the next few decades financially and emotionally. At the age of sixty-six, Wall Street Journal distinguished editor Stephen Kreider Yoder announced his retirement. His wife, sixty-seven-year-old Karen Kreider Yoder, followed suit. Their experiences, highlighted in the 'Retirement Rookies' column each month, demonstrate a departure from conventional retirement preparation. They emphasize crafting adaptable, meaningful experiences that serve as a foundation for future undertakings over following predetermined bucket lists.


This approach to retirement highlights a larger movement among individuals reimagining their post-employment years. By focusing on personal development and continual exploration, retirees can ensure a fuller, more satisfying experience. This narrative offers invaluable insights for Kirby employees looking to maximize their life-changing retirement years.

Recent studies by the American Psychological Association (APA) underline the advantages of the Yoders' method of unstructured retirement planning. The research indicates that retirees adhering rigidly to their pre-planned bucket lists report lower levels of satisfaction and fulfillment compared to those who engage in activities based on their own interests and whims. This suggests that a flexible retirement lifestyle can lead to more fulfilling and significant experiences, an important consideration as employees transition from structured careers to the freedom of retirement.


In the Retirement Rookies column, Stephen and Karen Kreider Yoder share their journeys and offer a fresh perspective on retirement planning. Learn why they're passing on typical bucket lists in favor of flexible, meaningful experiences, and how this strategy might enhance your post-work years at Kirby. Discover how embracing an unstructured retirement can lead to increased contentment and pleasure, setting the stage for a rewarding future.

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Forgoing a conventional retirement plan is akin to sailing a ship without a defined course. Retirees like the Yoders choose to navigate the waters of their golden years with the liberty to uncover new horizons as they appear, rather than charting every port of call. This method, much like a sailor discovering new adventures in uncharted waters, allows them to encounter unexpected joys and experiences, enriching each day with personal growth and satisfaction.

What is the purpose of Kirby's 401(k) Savings Plan?

The purpose of Kirby's 401(k) Savings Plan is to help employees save for retirement by allowing them to contribute a portion of their salary into a tax-advantaged account.

How can I enroll in Kirby's 401(k) Savings Plan?

You can enroll in Kirby's 401(k) Savings Plan by completing the enrollment form provided by the HR department or through the employee portal.

What types of contributions can I make to Kirby's 401(k) Savings Plan?

Employees can make pre-tax contributions, Roth (after-tax) contributions, and potentially catch-up contributions if they are age 50 or older in Kirby's 401(k) Savings Plan.

Does Kirby offer any matching contributions to the 401(k) Savings Plan?

Yes, Kirby offers a matching contribution to the 401(k) Savings Plan, which is designed to encourage employees to save for retirement.

What is the vesting schedule for Kirby's 401(k) matching contributions?

The vesting schedule for Kirby's 401(k) matching contributions typically follows a graded vesting schedule, where employees become fully vested after a certain number of years of service.

Can I change my contribution amount to Kirby's 401(k) Savings Plan?

Yes, employees can change their contribution amount to Kirby's 401(k) Savings Plan at any time by submitting a request through the employee portal.

What investment options are available in Kirby's 401(k) Savings Plan?

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

How often can I make changes to my investments in Kirby's 401(k) Savings Plan?

Employees can typically make changes to their investment allocations in Kirby's 401(k) Savings Plan on a quarterly basis or as specified in the plan documents.

What happens to my 401(k) account if I leave Kirby?

If you leave Kirby, you have several options for your 401(k) account, including rolling it over to an IRA or another employer’s plan, cashing it out, or leaving it in the current plan if permitted.

Is there a loan option available in Kirby's 401(k) Savings Plan?

Yes, Kirby's 401(k) Savings Plan may offer a loan option, allowing employees to borrow against their account balance under certain conditions.

With the current political climate we are in it is important to keep up with current news and remain knowledgeable about your benefits.
Pension Plan Information: Name of Pension Plan: XYZ Retirement Plan Years of Service and Age Qualification: Employees must have at least 10 years of service and be 55 years old to qualify for the XYZ Retirement Plan. Pension Formula: The pension benefit is calculated based on 1.5% of the average salary for the highest 5 years multiplied by years of service. Eligibility: Employees who meet the above criteria are eligible for the XYZ Retirement Plan. 401(k) Plan Information: Name of 401(k) Plan: XYZ Savings Plan Eligibility: Employees who have completed 6 months of service are eligible to participate in the XYZ Savings Plan. Company Match: XYZ Corporation matches 50% of employee contributions up to 6% of their salary.
Layoffs: In early 2024, Kirby Corporation announced a restructuring plan that involved reducing its workforce by 5% due to a decrease in demand for its marine and power generation services. This decision aimed to streamline operations and cut costs. Source: Reuters
Stock Options and RSUs Available: Apple offers stock options and RSUs primarily to executives and key employees. Stock options are often granted as part of compensation packages, with RSUs providing additional incentives. Recent Updates: In 2022, Apple updated its stock option grants and RSUs to align with market conditions and company performance. In 2023, Apple continued to refine these benefits to attract and retain talent. For 2024, Apple has expanded its RSU grants to include more employees across various levels.
Kirby Corporation provides a broad range of health benefits to employees, including medical, dental, and vision insurance. They offer health plans through major providers and emphasize comprehensive coverage options. Acronyms and Terms: Commonly used terms include PPO (Preferred Provider Organization), HMO (Health Maintenance Organization), and HSA (Health Savings Account). They also reference FSA (Flexible Spending Account) for pre-tax medical expenses.
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For more information you can reach the plan administrator for Kirby at , ; or by calling them at .

https://www.reuters.com/ https://www.investopedia.com/terms/c/cashbalancepensionplan.asp https://www.dol.gov/agencies/ebsa/about-ebsa/our-activities/resource-center/fact-sheets/cash-balance-pension-plans https://www.futureplan.com/resources/news-articles/defined-benefit-cash-balance-plan-key-priorities/ https://www.independentactuaries.com/2024-plan-limits/ https://kirbycorp.com/employees/ https://investors.kirbycorp.com/news-releases/news-release-details/kirby-corporation-announces-2024-second-quarter-results

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