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Sonic Automotive Employees Take on the World: Exploring the Best Overseas Retirement Spots for 2025

'Sonic Automotive employees exploring international retirement can enhance their lifestyle by planning carefully around healthcare, tax considerations, and residency requirements abroad.' – Paul Bergeron, a representative of The Retirement Group, a division of Wealth Enhancement Group.

'Sonic Automotive employees nearing retirement should view overseas living as a strategic lifestyle choice that combines financial efficiency with rich cultural experiences—when approached with thoughtful planning.' – Tyson Mavar, a representative of The Retirement Group, a division of Wealth Enhancement Group.

In this article, we will discuss:

The growing trend of retiring abroad and its increasing allure among Americans.
Top international retirement destinations and their unique attractions, as highlighted in the 2025 Retirement Overseas Index.
Key considerations for transitioning to an overseas lifestyle, including residency visas, tax benefits, and healthcare options.

For Sonic Automotive employees seeking a meaningful vacation or a permanent change of scenery after retirement, the idea of retiring abroad might be enticing. Recent trends show more Americans interested in international living. According to a Gallup poll, interest grew to 21% by 2024 from 10% in 2011. Improved global connectivity and broader social acceptance globally are contributing to this rising curiosity.

The 2025 Retirement Overseas Index by Live & Invest Overseas shows why people move abroad. This index rates retirement destinations on cost of living, healthcare quality, local regulations, tax considerations, and proximity to beaches, museums, and nature trails. Such factors are essential for retirement security.

The index considers some cities as good retirement spots. Valencia in Spain has an expat community and a Mediterranean climate for leisure and culture. And Medellin, Colombia, meanwhile, is an active urban area with a varied culinary and cultural scene for retirees looking for a dynamic lifestyle.

Transitioning to an overseas lifestyle takes planning. From choosing the right travel insurance to learning from current expats, Sonic Automotive retirees can prepare for life abroad. Those efforts enable informed decision-making and realistic expectations for those prepared to live internationally.

Understanding residency is also important for retirees moving. For example, Portugal offers the D7 retirement visa, which has accessible income requirements and offers great healthcare and tax advantages. The historical richness, relaxed lifestyle, and beautiful landscape of Portugal are highlighted in the 2025 Retirement Overseas Index.

Find out where to retire abroad in 2025. Explore top options like Valencia and Medellin - both known for their cultural vibrancy, quality healthcare, affordability, and friendly environments. Taxes, residency visas, and leisure tips for retiring Americans abroad. Ideal for Sonic Automotive workers looking for a beachy experience after work.

From Valencia's old-world charm to Medellin's cultural capital, each destination offers something different - like picking a wine for retirement. So, whether it's the soft familiarity of Valencia or the wild energy of Medellin, retirees can choose where to retire by weighing costs of living, healthcare, and local community - like choosing a wine by vineyard, vintage, and flavor profile.

Retiring abroad offers lower cost of living, affordable healthcare, and exposure to other cultures. The five sources that support these points are listed below with brief explanations of how they benefit retirees and strengthen the case for international retirement.

Articles you may find interesting:

Source:

1. Investopedia Staff. 'Is Retiring Abroad Right for You? Key Factors to Consider Now.' Investopedia , Nov. 2024, www.investopedia.com/is-retiring-abroad-right-for-you-key-factors-to-consider-now-8415232 .

2. Tubongbanua, Rachelle. 'Retiring Abroad: Financial Factors to Consider.' U.S. Bank , Oct. 2024, www.usbank.com/financialiq/inspire/retirement/retiring-abroad-financial-factors-to-consider.html .

3. Ingrim, Alex. 'The Pros and Cons of Retiring Abroad.' Kiplinger , July 2023, www.kiplinger.com/retirement/retiring-abroad/the-pros-and-cons-of-retiring-abroad .

4. U.S. News Staff. 'Best Places to Retire Overseas in 2025.' U.S. News & World Report , Jan. 2025, www.usnews.com/money/retirement/articles/best-places-to-retire-overseas-in-2025 .

5. Investopedia Staff. 'Retirees Flock to These Countries for Unmatched Benefits—Is Yours on the List?' Investopedia , Oct. 2024, www.investopedia.com/retirees-flock-to-these-countries-for-unmatched-benefits-8421893 .

What is the 401(k) plan offered by Sonic Automotive?

The 401(k) plan at Sonic Automotive is a retirement savings plan that allows employees to save a portion of their paycheck before taxes are taken out.

Does Sonic Automotive match contributions to the 401(k) plan?

Yes, Sonic Automotive offers a company match for employee contributions to the 401(k) plan, helping to boost your retirement savings.

When can employees at Sonic Automotive enroll in the 401(k) plan?

Employees at Sonic Automotive can enroll in the 401(k) plan during their initial onboarding or during the annual open enrollment period.

How much can employees contribute to the Sonic Automotive 401(k) plan?

Employees can contribute up to the IRS limit set for the year, which can vary annually. Sonic Automotive encourages employees to check the current limits.

What types of investments are available in the Sonic Automotive 401(k) plan?

The Sonic Automotive 401(k) plan offers a variety of investment options, including mutual funds, stocks, and bonds, allowing employees to diversify their portfolios.

Is there a vesting schedule for the company match in Sonic Automotive's 401(k) plan?

Yes, Sonic Automotive has a vesting schedule for the company match, which means that employees must work for a certain period before they fully own the matched contributions.

Can employees at Sonic Automotive take loans against their 401(k) savings?

Yes, Sonic Automotive allows employees to take loans against their 401(k) savings, subject to specific terms and conditions outlined in the plan.

What happens to my 401(k) savings if I leave Sonic Automotive?

If you leave Sonic Automotive, you can roll over your 401(k) savings into another qualified retirement plan, withdraw the funds, or leave them in the Sonic Automotive plan, depending on the balance.

How can employees at Sonic Automotive access their 401(k) account information?

Employees can access their 401(k) account information through the online portal provided by Sonic Automotive’s plan administrator.

Does Sonic Automotive offer financial planning resources for employees regarding their 401(k)?

Yes, Sonic Automotive provides access to financial planning resources and tools to help employees make informed decisions about their 401(k) savings.