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The Rise of Semi-Retirement for Arthur J. Gallagher Employees: A Flexible Transition to Retirement

'Arthur J. Gallagher employees considering semi-retirement can benefit from not only a flexible work schedule but also the financial advantages of continuing to contribute to retirement savings while maintaining a sense of purpose and social engagement.' – Michael Corgiat, a representative of The Retirement Group, a division of Wealth Enhancement.

'Transitioning to semi-retirement can be a smart strategy for Arthur J. Gallagher employees to balance continued financial growth with personal well-being, offering both income opportunities and a healthier work-life balance.' – Brent Wolf, a representative of The Retirement Group, a division of Wealth Enhancement.

In this article, we will discuss:

The benefits of semi-retirement for Arthur J. Gallagher employees, including financial and psychological advantages.
The economic opportunities, such as contributing to retirement accounts and delaying Social Security benefits.
Important considerations when transitioning to semi-retirement, including taxes, health care, and the impact on Social Security benefits.

As retirement approaches, many Arthur J. Gallagher employees are rethinking what it means to 'retire.' Traditionally, retirement has meant leaving the workforce entirely, but this notion is shifting, with semi-retirement becoming an increasingly popular and viable option. Semi-retirement offers a flexible way to transition into retirement while maintaining professional involvement, whether driven by a desire to stay active or by financial needs.

Semi-Retirement: What Is It?

Semi-retirement is when employees reduce their work hours, while still engaging in part-time or freelance opportunities. For Arthur J. Gallagher employees, this could involve cutting back hours at a full-time position, taking on part-time roles, or venturing into self-employment through consulting or freelance work.

Some may need to be in semi-retirement due to insufficient savings or unexpected financial circumstances, even after reaching the typical retirement age. Others may feel motivated to continue working due to personal fulfillment, a sense of purpose, or the social connections that work provides. Semi-retirement offers a balance between leisure and activity, benefiting many by enhancing their overall well-being.

Important Takeaways:

Arthur J. Gallagher employees who transition into semi-retirement can still earn an income while enjoying more free time.
Semi-retirement provides psychological as well as financial benefits, helping individuals maintain relationships and stay engaged.
It's important to understand the tax implications, and the effects on Social Security benefits and health care coverage, before entering semi-retirement.

The Economic Advantages of Semi-Retirement

One of the most direct financial benefits of semi-retirement is the ability to supplement retirement funds. Even though part-time jobs may not offer the same salary as full-time positions, they can still contribute to a financial cushion for retirement.

Arthur J. Gallagher employees in semi-retirement may still be eligible to make contributions to retirement accounts such as IRAs. Individuals over 50 can take advantage of catch-up contributions, allowing them to save even more for retirement. In 2025, the IRA contribution limit is $8,000, including a $1,000 catch-up contribution. Arthur J. Gallagher employees who participate in a 401k can benefit from a $7,500 catch-up contribution, increasing the maximum contribution to $30,000 for those over 50, and up to $35,500 for employees aged 60 to 63.

Additionally, continuing to work part-time can delay the start of Social Security benefits, which can increase the monthly payout when benefits are eventually claimed. For Arthur J. Gallagher employees who expect to live longer and wish to increase their retirement income, delaying Social Security can result in an approximately 8% increase in benefits for each year they wait after reaching full retirement age (FRA).

Semi-retirement can provide a cushion against unexpected financial setbacks, such as market downturns or unforeseen expenses. With a second income and the ability to delay drawing from retirement accounts, employees can strengthen their financial future.

The Psychological Benefits of Semi-Retirement

While the financial incentives are clear, semi-retirement also offers important psychological benefits. The transition from a full-time career to retirement can be overwhelming, especially for those who have worked for decades. The loss of a job-related identity and the potential for social isolation can take a toll on mental health, leading to increased risks of loneliness, anxiety, or depression.

Semi-retirement provides a solution by maintaining social connections and a sense of purpose. It offers structure while allowing for greater freedom, which can help employees stay engaged and emotionally fulfilled. Kevin Won, a financial advisor with The Retirement Group, suggests that reducing work hours rather than quitting altogether can contribute to a more successful retirement.

Not all Arthur J. Gallagher employees are suited for semi-retirement, however. Teresa Ghilarducci, a labor economist, warns that those in high-stress, low-control jobs might find that continuing to work, even part-time, could exacerbate stress and health issues. It's important for each employee to evaluate their own situation and whether part-time work will improve or hinder their quality of life.

How to Determine If Semi-Retirement Is Right for You

For Arthur J. Gallagher employees, deciding if semi-retirement is the right path involves considering both financial and personal factors. Financially, it's important to assess how much more needs to be saved and how long one must work in semi-retirement to cover retirement expenses. Thoughtful questions such as 'How much more do I need to save?' and 'How long will I need to work to support my retirement?' can guide the decision-making process.

Employees with adequate savings who still want to build their nest egg can use semi-retirement as an opportunity to work more flexibly and add to their retirement funds. This additional income could provide a cushion against economic uncertainties.

For those seeking purpose or a new challenge, semi-retirement may involve consulting, freelancing, or taking on projects that align with personal interests. Arthur J. Gallagher employees who are motivated by a desire to remain engaged in meaningful work will find semi-retirement an ideal option.

Things to Consider Before Moving Into Semi-Retirement

Before transitioning to semi-retirement, Arthur J. Gallagher employees should carefully consider the potential impact on their health care, taxes, and Social Security benefits.

Taxes:

Working part-time during semi-retirement can impact tax brackets. Additional income from part-time work or retirement account withdrawals may push employees into a higher tax bracket, increasing their tax liability. It's important to stay informed about tax changes and plan accordingly.

Social Security:

If an employee is under full retirement age (FRA), working part-time while receiving Social Security benefits may reduce the monthly income. For example, in 2025, employees under FRA who earn more than $23,400 may see a reduction of $1 in Social Security benefits for every $2 they earn above this threshold. Once FRA is reached, any withheld benefits will be reinstated.

Health Care:

Retirees under 65 must purchase health insurance through the marketplace until they are eligible for Medicare at age 65. Employees staying in their jobs may continue to access employer-sponsored insurance. Understanding how health care costs will be managed during the transition to retirement is crucial, especially for employees who will continue to rely on company health benefits.

The Bottom Line

Semi-retirement offers Arthur J. Gallagher employees a flexible, fulfilling way to ease into retirement without losing the financial and social benefits of work. With the potential to supplement retirement savings, delay Social Security claims, and maintain social connections, semi-retirement may provide a balanced approach to transitioning into full retirement.

By weighing the financial and personal factors, employees can make an informed decision that aligns with their long-term goals, leading to a smooth and sustainable retirement journey.

This growing trend reflects a shift toward a more gradual, controlled approach to retirement, with nearly 30% of Americans over 60 considering semi-retirement ¹ as a way to preserve both financial stability and personal fulfillment.

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Sources:

1. ' 4 Key Reasons Retirement Is Out of Reach for Many Older Americans ,' by Cynthia Meason. Yahoo!finance, 17 June 2025.

Other resources:

1. 'The Rise of the Semi-Retired Life.' Investopedia, 25 Oct. 2016, www.investopedia.com/articles/retirement/102216/the-rise-semi-retired-life.asp .

2. 'The Amazing Tax Benefits of Semi-Retirement.' Can I Retire Yet?, 25 May 2020, www.caniretireyet.com/tax-benefits-of-semi-retirement/ .

3. 'Delayed Retirement Credits.' Social Security Administration, www.ssa.gov/benefits/retirement/delayed-retirement-credits/ .

4. 'How Working in Later Years Can Improve Your Health.' Investopedia, 28 May 2025, www.investopedia.com/articles/retirement/052816/how-working-later-years-can-improve-your-health.asp .

5. '5 Advantages of Semi-Retirement.' Minster Bank, 15 Sept. 2024, www.minsterbank.com/5-advantages-of-semi-retirement/

How can Gallagher, Flynn & Company LLP assist employees in understanding the advantages and disadvantages of cash balance retirement plans compared to traditional pension plans, and what factors should employees consider when determining which plan might be more beneficial for their unique financial situations within Gallagher, Flynn & Company LLP?

Understanding the advantages and disadvantages of cash balance plans: Gallagher, Flynn & Company LLP helps employees understand the benefits of cash balance retirement plans by comparing them to traditional pension plans. Cash balance plans offer higher contribution limits and more retirement savings while also reducing tax liability. However, employees must consider that cash balance plans distribute benefits evenly across all working years, which could lead to lower benefits than traditional pension plans that focus on the highest earning years(Gallagher_Flynn_Company…).

As an employee of Gallagher, Flynn & Company LLP, what specific criteria should individuals meet to be eligible for participation in a cash balance retirement plan, and how does Gallagher, Flynn & Company LLP ensure compliance with these criteria to maintain the planâ€™s integrity?

Eligibility for participation in a cash balance plan: Employees at Gallagher, Flynn & Company LLP must meet specific criteria to participate in cash balance retirement plans. These criteria typically involve employer contributions of 5-8% of the employee's salary. The company ensures compliance with contribution regulations by maintaining consistent cash flow to meet the annual contribution requirements(Gallagher_Flynn_Company…).

What are the current IRS contribution limits for cash balance retirement plans in 2024, and how does Gallagher, Flynn & Company LLP implement these limits to maximize the retirement savings of its employees, particularly those nearing retirement age or with higher incomes?

IRS contribution limits in 2024: The IRS contribution limit for cash balance plans in 2024 is over $200,000 for participants aged 60 or over. Gallagher, Flynn & Company LLP implements these limits by allowing employees to contribute significant amounts, especially those nearing retirement, helping them maximize their retirement savings while reducing their tax burden(Gallagher_Flynn_Company…).

In what ways can employees of Gallagher, Flynn & Company LLP expect their retirement benefits to be calculated under a cash balance pension plan, and how do the different factors affecting this calculation impact long-term financial planning for employees?

Retirement benefits calculation under a cash balance plan: Retirement benefits in a cash balance plan at Gallagher, Flynn & Company LLP are calculated based on the percentage of the employee’s salary credited to their account each year, plus an interest credit. This structure allows employees to plan for long-term financial stability, although it may result in lower overall retirement benefits compared to traditional pension plans due to the even distribution of contributions(Gallagher_Flynn_Company…).

What steps does Gallagher, Flynn & Company LLP take to communicate updates or changes in cash balance retirement plan regulations, and how can employees stay informed about their rights and obligations under these plans?

Communication about plan updates: Gallagher, Flynn & Company LLP regularly communicates updates and changes in cash balance retirement plan regulations through company-wide communications and financial advising services. Employees are encouraged to stay informed by contacting the company’s financial advisors or reviewing regulatory updates to understand their rights and obligations(Gallagher_Flynn_Company…).

Can you elaborate on the specific tax benefits associated with cash balance retirement plans that are offered by Gallagher, Flynn & Company LLP, and how these benefits compare to those available through other retirement plans?

Tax benefits of cash balance plans: Cash balance retirement plans at Gallagher, Flynn & Company LLP offer significant tax benefits by allowing for higher contribution limits than traditional 401(k) plans. These higher limits enable employees to lower their taxable income, making these plans advantageous for employees seeking to minimize tax liabilities and increase retirement savings(Gallagher_Flynn_Company…).

How does Gallagher, Flynn & Company LLP support employees who are considering transitioning from a traditional pension plan to a cash balance retirement plan, and what resources are available to facilitate this decision-making process?

Support for transitioning to a cash balance plan: Gallagher, Flynn & Company LLP provides resources and personalized financial advising to employees considering a transition from a traditional pension plan to a cash balance plan. The company ensures that employees understand the benefits and limitations of both plans, offering guidance to facilitate informed decisions(Gallagher_Flynn_Company…).

What strategies does Gallagher, Flynn & Company LLP recommend to employees who are in a position to "catch up" on their retirement contributions, particularly for those over the age of 40, to take full advantage of the higher limits associated with cash balance retirement plans?

Catch-up contributions: Employees over 40 at Gallagher, Flynn & Company LLP can take advantage of catch-up contributions due to the higher contribution limits of cash balance plans. The company recommends that older employees maximize these contributions to enhance their retirement savings and benefit from the associated tax advantages(Gallagher_Flynn_Company…).

How does Gallagher, Flynn & Company LLP determine the annual employer contribution rates for its cash balance retirement plan, and what factors influence the sustainability of these contributions in the long-term financial health of the company and its employees?

Annual employer contribution rates: Gallagher, Flynn & Company LLP determines the employer contribution rates for cash balance plans based on a percentage of employee salaries, typically ranging from 5-8%. These contributions are influenced by the company’s financial stability and commitment to providing robust retirement benefits for long-term employee financial health(Gallagher_Flynn_Company…).

If an employee at Gallagher, Flynn & Company LLP has additional questions about the cash balance retirement plans and needs further assistance, what are the best ways for them to contact Gallagher, Flynn & Company LLP to receive tailored guidance or information?

Contact for further assistance: Employees at Gallagher, Flynn & Company LLP who have additional questions about the cash balance retirement plans can contact the company through their financial advisors or reach out to their local offices for tailored guidance and support. The company’s financial team is available to provide personalized information and assistance as needed(Gallagher_Flynn_Company…).

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For more information you can reach the plan administrator for Arthur J. Gallagher at 2850 Golf Rd Rolling Meadows, IL 60008; or by calling them at +1 847-953-3000.