New Update: Healthcare Costs Increasing by Over 60% in Some States. Will you be impacted?

Discovering the Best International Retirement Destinations for Kemper Employees: Your Guide to a Fulfilling Life Abroad

Healthcare Provider Update: Kemper Healthcare Provider: Kemper provides health insurance through its partnerships with various insurers. Notably, they collaborate with larger health insurance companies in the industry, and specific healthcare provider information can vary by state and plan. It's essential for policyholders to check with Kemper directly or refer to their policy documentation for the most accurate healthcare provider details pertinent to their coverage. Healthcare Cost Increases in 2026: As we approach 2026, health insurance premiums across the ACA marketplace are forecasted to reach unprecedented levels, marked by increases that may exceed 60% in certain markets. The convergence of rising medical costs, potential loss of federal subsidies, and aggressive rate hikes from major insurers creates a challenging landscape for consumers. With estimates suggesting that more than 22 million ACA enrollees may face out-of-pocket premium spikes of over 75%, stakeholders are urged to consider proactive strategies for managing their healthcare expenses. Importantly, the anticipated substantial premium increases necessitate careful planning and evaluation during the upcoming open enrollment period. Click here to learn more

Switzerland maintains its position at the top of U.S. News & World Report’s annual survey of the most comfortable countries for retirement , a detail Kemper employees considering international retirement should note. This Alpine nation is distinguished not only in this category but also as the top country globally. Despite its high cost of living, Switzerland’s exceptional security, strong economic stability, outstanding medical safety, and favorable retirement benefits make it a prime destination for retirees. It also ranks highly in terms of quality of life (third) and business practice (second).

The survey assesses 89 countries based on various criteria such as feasibility, tax regimes, healthcare quality, social friendliness, and climatic conditions. Following in terms of retirement desirability are New Zealand, Portugal, and Australia, favored for their living costs and retirement and social security systems. In contrast, the United States does not make the top 20, an interesting observation for Kemper staff considering where to retire.

Top 10 Countries for a Comfortable Retirement:

1. Luxembourg finds itself in the tenth spot for retirement but does not fare as well in the global ranking, within the top 30. The country performs well in terms of quality of life and social vocation, ranking 17th and 16th respectively. Eligibility for retirement requires contributions to the national old-age pension fund for at least ten years.

2. Sweden, known for its high quality of life and commitment to social causes, ranks second in these areas but 20th for adventure, reflecting its friendly populace and pleasant climate. Retiring in Sweden involves more than a tourist stay; obtaining a residence permit from a Swedish consulate or embassy is necessary for stays exceeding 90 days.

3. Netherlands, despite not being in the top 10 globally, secures a spot among the best for retirement. The country is also a popular destination for solo travelers, ranked at number nine. Future retirees from outside the EU will need to navigate visas and residency permits to settle here.

4. Denmark leads the survey in terms of quality of life and sociability among the participating countries but ranks seventh for retirement. Notably, Switzerland does not offer a specific retirement visa, making long-term visas essential for American citizens planning extended stays.

5. Canada is a favored destination for some U.S. citizens, ranked sixth for retirement and fourth overall. The country tops the charts in terms of sociability, quality of life, and agility. Canada does not offer a special visa for retirement; however, a super visa may allow extended family visits, valid for five years.

6. Spain holds the fifth spot, with lower rents and property taxes than the United States. An estimated modest monthly income of $1,913 is sufficient for a comfortable existence, supported by affordable social security. Despite the end of the Golden Visa program, Spain offers a Non-Lucrative Visa allowing a three-year stay for retirees.

7. Australia, previously ranked third, now takes the fourth spot. It offers an Investor Retirement visa for financially independent retirees without dependents, valid for four years. Despite rising housing prices, urban rents remain lower than those in major U.S. cities. Australia also provides a choice between universal and private healthcare.

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8. Portugal moves up from second place to third. The Portugal D7 Retirement Visa simplifies residency for non-European citizens with stable incomes, while its golden visa program offers permanent residency opportunities through significant investments in real estate or scientific research. The cost of living is significantly lower than in the United States, allowing for a comfortable life on $1,500 to $2,000 per month.

9. New Zealand, ranked second, appeals to the elderly with its temporary retiree visitor visa, requiring certain investments within the country. It also offers a residency visa for elderly parents to wealthy individuals. Thanks to reduced living costs and free healthcare, New Zealand provides a viable alternative for retirees.

10. Switzerland remains the epitome of retirement destinations due to its leading healthcare system, low taxes, and even high living expenses. Prospective retirees will need a type D visa, ensuring their health insurance and sufficient financial resources. Residents likely need at least 3,500 euros per month to live comfortably in an urban setting, and the country’s tax policies favor the affluent. It has a three-pillar pension system that starts at 65 for men and 64 for women, reinforcing its status as a refuge for retirees seeking stability and high living standards.

11. This ranking highlights the importance of meticulous planning and considering various factors such as healthcare, cost of living, and social amenities when choosing a retirement location. Each country presents its own benefits and challenges, making it essential to consider personal preferences and financial circumstances in selecting the right place for retirement.

For Kemper retirees who might consider settling in top-ranked Switzerland, it's advantageous to know that Switzerland offers tax benefits for foreign retirees as part of its lump-sum taxation system, also called 'taxation according to expenditure.' This method allows retirees to negotiate their taxes based on their living expenses rather than income, significantly reducing their tax burden, making it an attractive option for those with substantial retirement incomes. This policy is especially beneficial to Kemper corporate sector retirees who may have significant pensions or investments (Swiss Federal Tax Administration, 2022).

Choose a nation from the top ten list as if selecting the ideal wine from a prestigious estate. Just as a wine enthusiast assesses wine based on its region, age, and grape type to match their taste and occasion, a retiree evaluates each country based on its healthcare quality, cost of living, and social infrastructure to find the best fit for their retired life. Switzerland, like a fine Swiss watch, demonstrates precision in healthcare and stability, making it the preferred choice for those seeking a top-tier retirement haven.

What is the purpose of Kemper's 401(k) plan?

The purpose of Kemper's 401(k) plan is to help employees save for retirement by allowing them to contribute a portion of their salary on a pre-tax or Roth after-tax basis.

How can employees enroll in Kemper's 401(k) plan?

Employees can enroll in Kemper's 401(k) plan by accessing the company's benefits portal during the enrollment period or by contacting the HR department for assistance.

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

Yes, Kemper offers a company match for 401(k) contributions, which helps employees increase their retirement savings.

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

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

Can employees change their contribution rate to Kemper's 401(k) plan?

Yes, employees can change their contribution rate to Kemper's 401(k) plan at any time, subject to the plan’s guidelines.

What is the vesting schedule for Kemper's 401(k) company match?

The vesting schedule for Kemper's 401(k) company match typically follows a graded vesting schedule, which means employees earn ownership of the match over a period of time.

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

Yes, like many retirement plans, Kemper's 401(k) plan may have administrative fees and investment-related expenses, which are disclosed in the plan documents.

How often can employees access their 401(k) account information at Kemper?

Employees can access their 401(k) account information at Kemper any time through the online benefits portal or by contacting the plan administrator.

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

If you leave Kemper, you have several options for your 401(k), including rolling it over to an IRA, transferring it to a new employer's plan, or cashing it out, subject to taxes and penalties.

Can employees take loans against their Kemper 401(k) plan?

Yes, Kemper allows employees to take loans against their 401(k) plan, 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.

Pension Plan Name: Kemper's pension plan is known as the "Kemper Pension Plan". Pension Formula: The pension formula includes a defined benefit based on years of service and average salary. For Kemper, the formula is generally expressed as a percentage of the employee’s average salary multiplied by years of service. Years of Service and Age Qualification: To qualify for the pension plan, employees typically need a minimum of 5 years of service and must be at least 55 years old. Specific qualifications may vary. 401(k) Plan Name: The 401(k) plan offered by Kemper is known as the "Kemper 401(k) Plan". Eligibility: Employees are generally eligible to participate in the 401(k) plan after completing 30 days of employment. Kemper offers various investment options and may provide company matching contributions.

Restructuring Layoffs: In early 2024, Kemper announced significant restructuring efforts due to ongoing economic pressures and a need to streamline operations. The company plans to reduce its workforce by approximately 10% as part of this restructuring. This move is intended to enhance operational efficiency and adapt to the changing insurance market dynamics. The decision reflects broader trends in the industry where companies are realigning their resources to better cope with current economic conditions. Company Benefit Changes: Alongside layoffs, Kemper is also revising its employee benefits structure. The company is scaling back on certain benefits and altering pension plans to align with its new financial strategies. These changes come in response to the increasing costs associated with employee benefits and a need to reallocate resources to critical business areas. It’s crucial to monitor such developments as they can significantly impact employees’ financial planning, especially in light of current economic and investment uncertainties.

Kemper offers stock options and RSUs to its employees as part of its compensation package. For 2022, Kemper provided stock options and RSUs based on performance and tenure, detailed in the company's annual report (Page 45). In 2023, Kemper continued offering similar options with updated terms for new and existing employees (Page 52). For 2024, Kemper adjusted the stock options and RSU grants to align with market conditions and company performance (Page 57).

Health Insurance: Kemper offers a variety of health insurance plans, including PPO and HMO options. Benefits typically include coverage for preventive care, emergency services, hospitalization, and prescription drugs. Health Savings Account (HSA): Employees enrolled in high-deductible health plans may be eligible for an HSA, which allows pre-tax contributions to save for qualified medical expenses. Flexible Spending Account (FSA): Kemper provides an FSA option for employees to use pre-tax dollars for eligible healthcare expenses. Employee Assistance Program (EAP): Offers confidential support for personal and work-related issues, including mental health services.