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McDonald's Guide to Making the Most of Their Retirement Savings Across U.S. States

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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. McDonald's 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 McDonald's 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 McDonald's 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:

  1. Minnesota - $547,000

  2. Washington - $550,700

  3. Vermont - $550,000

  4. Massachusetts - $563,000

  5. Alaska – $570,000

  6. New Hampshire - $570,000

  7. North Dakota - $582,000

  8. Virginia - $590,000

  9. New Jersey - $600,000

  10. 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. McDonald's 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 McDonald's 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. McDonald's employees can use these prosperous regions as examples for building their own retirement plans effectively.

What is the McDonald's 401(k) plan?

The McDonald's 401(k) plan is a retirement savings plan that allows eligible employees to save a portion of their paycheck before taxes are deducted.

How can I enroll in the McDonald's 401(k) plan?

Employees can enroll in the McDonald's 401(k) plan through the employee portal or by contacting the HR department for assistance.

What is the employer match for the McDonald's 401(k) plan?

McDonald's offers a competitive employer match for contributions made to the 401(k) plan, which can help employees maximize their retirement savings.

Are there any eligibility requirements to participate in the McDonald's 401(k) plan?

Yes, eligibility requirements for the McDonald's 401(k) plan typically include being a full-time or part-time employee who has completed a certain period of service.

How much can I contribute to the McDonald's 401(k) plan each year?

The contribution limits for the McDonald's 401(k) plan are subject to IRS guidelines, which may change annually. Employees should refer to the plan documents for specific limits.

Can I take a loan against my McDonald's 401(k) plan?

Yes, McDonald's allows employees to take loans against their 401(k) savings, subject to certain terms and conditions outlined in the plan.

What investment options are available in the McDonald's 401(k) plan?

The McDonald's 401(k) plan offers a variety of investment options, including mutual funds, target-date funds, and other investment vehicles to help employees diversify their portfolios.

When can I access my funds from the McDonald's 401(k) plan?

Employees can access their funds from the McDonald's 401(k) plan upon reaching retirement age, or under certain circumstances such as financial hardship or termination of employment.

Does McDonald's provide financial education regarding the 401(k) plan?

Yes, McDonald's offers financial education resources and workshops to help employees understand their 401(k) options and make informed decisions about their retirement savings.

What happens to my McDonald's 401(k) plan if I leave the company?

If you leave McDonald's, you have several options for your 401(k) plan, including rolling it over to another retirement account, cashing it out, or leaving it in the McDonald's plan if you meet the criteria.

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

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