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Pure Storage 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. Pure Storage 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 Pure Storage 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 Pure Storage 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. Pure Storage 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 Pure Storage 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. Pure Storage employees can use these prosperous regions as examples for building their own retirement plans effectively.

What type of retirement plan does Pure Storage offer to its employees?

Pure Storage offers a 401(k) retirement savings plan to help employees save for their future.

Does Pure Storage match employee contributions to the 401(k) plan?

Yes, Pure Storage provides a matching contribution to the 401(k) plan, which enhances employees' retirement savings.

What is the eligibility criteria for Pure Storage employees to participate in the 401(k) plan?

Most employees at Pure Storage are eligible to participate in the 401(k) plan after completing a specified period of employment.

Can employees at Pure Storage choose how to invest their 401(k) contributions?

Yes, employees at Pure Storage can choose from a variety of investment options within the 401(k) plan.

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

The maximum contribution limit for the Pure Storage 401(k) plan is in line with IRS guidelines, which may change annually.

Does Pure Storage allow employees to take loans against their 401(k) savings?

Yes, Pure Storage allows employees to take loans against their 401(k) savings, subject to certain terms and conditions.

What happens to my 401(k) balance if I leave Pure Storage?

If you leave Pure Storage, you can choose to roll over your 401(k) balance to another retirement account or withdraw it, subject to applicable taxes and penalties.

Is there a vesting schedule for the employer match in Pure Storage's 401(k) plan?

Yes, Pure Storage has a vesting schedule for the employer match, which means employees must work for a certain period to fully own the matched funds.

Can Pure Storage employees change their contribution percentage to the 401(k) plan?

Yes, employees at Pure Storage can change their contribution percentage at any time, subject to plan rules.

How often can employees at Pure Storage make changes to their investment allocations in the 401(k) plan?

Employees at Pure Storage can typically make changes to their investment allocations on a regular basis, often daily or monthly, depending on the plan provisions.