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

What is the 401(k) plan offered by Western Union?

The 401(k) plan offered by Western Union is a retirement savings plan that allows employees to save a portion of their paycheck before taxes are taken out.

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

Employees can enroll in Western Union's 401(k) plan through the company’s benefits portal or by contacting the HR department for assistance.

Does Western Union match employee contributions to the 401(k) plan?

Yes, Western Union offers a matching contribution to employees who participate in the 401(k) plan, up to a certain percentage of their salary.

What are the eligibility requirements for Western Union's 401(k) plan?

Employees are typically eligible to participate in Western Union's 401(k) plan after completing a specified period of employment, which is outlined in the employee handbook.

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

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

What investment options are available in Western Union's 401(k) plan?

Western Union's 401(k) plan offers a variety of investment options, including mutual funds, target-date funds, and other investment vehicles.

Is there a vesting schedule for Western Union's 401(k) matching contributions?

Yes, Western Union has a vesting schedule for its matching contributions, which means employees must work for a certain period before they fully own those contributions.

How often can employees access their 401(k) account statements at Western Union?

Employees can access their 401(k) account statements online through the benefits portal, typically on a quarterly basis.

What happens to the 401(k) plan if an employee leaves Western Union?

If an employee leaves Western Union, they can choose to roll over their 401(k) balance to another retirement account, cash out, or leave it in the Western Union plan if allowed.

Are there loans available against the 401(k) plan at Western Union?

Yes, Western Union's 401(k) plan may allow employees to take loans against their account balance, subject to specific terms and conditions.