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Generac Holdings Guide to Making the Most of Their Retirement Savings Across U.S. States

Recent research by Empower, a leading retirement plan provider , has highlighted substantial regional differences in retirement savings across the United States. The study, conducted in April through a survey of 1,011 U.S. adults, shows that retirement account balances (pensions, IRAs, and 401(k)s) vary widely by region. Generac Holdings employees should consider these geographical differences when planning their retirement strategies.

The findings indicate that northern regions typically have larger retirement savings, attributed to factors like higher local wages, state taxes, and the cost of living. This regional advantage results in significant differences in average retirement savings, with some states notably ahead of others. The Generac Holdings workforce is in a favorable position to benefit from understanding these economic conditions across regions.

According to data from the Empower Personal Dashboard ™ for September 2024, the average 401(k) balance nationwide is $293,695. This figure serves as an essential indicator of personal spending and investments, which generally rise over time. Notably, for individuals around age 50 who are nearing retirement, this average increases to $583,231—a key consideration for Generac Holdings employees approaching retirement age.

Furthermore, the national average for retirement savings is approximately $498,000. However, the top ten states exceed this average by at least $49,000, underscoring the diversity in retirement savings accumulation across the country. The states with the highest retirement savings are:

Minnesota - $547,000
Washington - $550,700
Vermont - $550,000
Massachusetts - $563,000
Alaska – $570,000
New Hampshire - $570,000
North Dakota - $582,000
Virginia - $590,000
New Jersey - $600,000
Connecticut - $634,000

These statistics illustrate the differences in retirement preparation across states and the challenges many face in building a substantial retirement fund. A January 2024 study by Northwestern Mutual , conducted via the Harris Poll, reveals a substantial gap between the desired and actual retirement savings of adults, with an average shortfall exceeding one million dollars. Generac Holdings employees can use this information to gauge their own retirement planning.

This data emphasizes the critical role of thoughtful financial planning and the importance of investment strategies tailored to local economic factors. Survey results provide valuable comparisons for individuals assessing their retirement preparedness. For Generac Holdings staff, this means aligning investment strategies with regional economic conditions for stronger retirement outcomes.

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Additional insights from the Employee Benefit Research Institute’s Retirement Confidence Survey of May 2024 show that individuals in wealthier states often benefit from employer-supported financial initiatives. This approach, increasingly adopted by major corporations, has been shown to substantially improve retirement outcomes. The study indicates that employees with access to such resources not only have the ability to save more but also express greater confidence in their retirement plans. These findings suggest that geographic disparities in retirement savings may also reflect different levels of corporate support in financial education and planning, which are essential for enhancing retirement readiness among older workers.

Think of retirement savings as a garden, where each section represents a different plot. In this “garden,” the northern states resemble fertile zones where factors like higher wages and strong employer-sponsored plans foster a notable increase in retirement savings compared to other regions. This fertile area produces significantly larger “crops” (savings), surpassing the national average. This analogy highlights territorial inequalities in retirement preparation, showing how regional and financial factors contribute to the growth of retirement funds across the country. Generac Holdings employees can use these prosperous regions as examples for building their own retirement plans effectively.

What retirement savings plan does Generac Holdings offer to its employees?

Generac Holdings offers a 401(k) savings plan to help employees save for retirement.

Does Generac Holdings match employee contributions to the 401(k) plan?

Yes, Generac Holdings provides a matching contribution to employee contributions made to the 401(k) plan, subject to certain limits.

What is the eligibility requirement for Generac Holdings' 401(k) plan?

Employees of Generac Holdings are eligible to participate in the 401(k) plan after completing a specified period of service, typically outlined in the employee handbook.

Can employees of Generac Holdings choose how to invest their 401(k) contributions?

Yes, employees at Generac Holdings can choose from a variety of investment options within the 401(k) plan to align with their individual risk tolerance and retirement goals.

How often can employees of Generac Holdings change their 401(k) contribution amounts?

Employees of Generac Holdings can change their 401(k) contribution amounts during designated enrollment periods or as permitted by the plan.

Is there a vesting schedule for the employer match in Generac Holdings' 401(k) plan?

Yes, Generac Holdings has a vesting schedule for the employer match, meaning employees must work for a certain period before they fully own the matched contributions.

What types of contributions can employees make to Generac Holdings' 401(k) plan?

Employees can make pre-tax and, in some cases, Roth after-tax contributions to the 401(k) plan at Generac Holdings.

Does Generac Holdings allow for loans against the 401(k) balance?

Yes, Generac Holdings may allow employees to take loans against their 401(k) balance, subject to the terms of the plan.

What happens to my 401(k) if I leave Generac Holdings?

If you leave Generac Holdings, you can choose to roll over your 401(k) balance to another retirement account, leave it in the Generac Holdings plan (if permitted), or cash it out, though cashing out may incur taxes and penalties.

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

Yes, there may be administrative fees and investment-related fees associated with Generac Holdings' 401(k) plan, which are disclosed in the plan documents.