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Navigating Retirement: A Guide for Academy Sports and Outdoors Employees

'Academy Sports and Outdoors employees should carefully evaluate how state-to-state cost differences can reshape their retirement goals, as geographic decisions play a major role in long-term planning,' – Patrick Ray, a representative of The Retirement Group, a division of Wealth Enhancement Group.

'Academy Sports and Outdoors employees can benefit from comparing state and international living costs to align their retirement plans with locations that support their long-term financial goals,' – Michael Corgiat, a representative of The Retirement Group, a division of Wealth Enhancement Group.

In this article, we will discuss:

The financial requirements for a comfortable retirement across different U.S. states— How location impacts the savings needed for retirement.
Affordable and expensive retirement destinations— A comparison of high-cost states like Hawaii versus budget-friendly states such as Arkansas.
Alternative retirement options, including international living— Exploring cost-effective retirement choices abroad.

Many Academy Sports and Outdoors employees will retire after decades of service and careful financial planning. What is needed to retire comfortably varies greatly state by state, and some places require much larger reserves.

What Does Your Retirement Need?

GoBankingRates recently researched the amount needed to retire comfortably and found it to be fairly conservative. It uses data from the Federal Reserve Economic Data, the Zillow Home Value Index and the Social Security Administration.

The report examines savings needed for each age bracket assuming retirement at 65 and age 85. That assumes average Social Security payments of around USD 1,876 per month per person, which accounts for the required 20-year savings.

Cost Variations by State

For Academy Sports and Outdoors workers in New Jersey, Colorado and Maryland, more than USD 1 million may be needed to live comfortably after retirement. The most expensive state is Hawaii, which requires more than USD 3 million in estimated savings to cover retirement costs including Social Security benefits.

Conversely, states like Arkansas and Mississippi have more modest retirement scenarios with estimated savings needs of less than USD 500,000. Such areas might attract retirees who want affordability with a desirable lifestyle.

Considering International Retirement?

Those open to living abroad find Mexico and Portugal an economical but fulfilling retirement option. Lower living costs, tax incentives and structured residency programs may all help with financial security in retirement.

Choosing the Right Location

Academy Sports and Outdoors professionals need to consider geographic options and how they affect long-term financial security. For more on state-specific retirement affordability, visit GoBankingRates (link).

It also names top U.S. cities for retirement - Naples, Florida, or Sun City, Arizona. There is affordability, quality healthcare and a strong community life in these locations - factors that are becoming more important for retirement planning.

Final Thoughts

Academy Sports and Outdoors workers may want to read the latest GoBankingRates findings about what retirement savings are needed. This analysis details financial considerations for a secure retirement - whether in West Virginia or Hawaii - a high-cost financial destination.

Planning for retirement is preparing for an extended voyage. As sailors map their routes and anticipate changes in the sea, so must retirees navigate financial landscapes to create a structured retirement plan. All states have their advantages and disadvantages, like the conditions that mariners face.

Articles you may find interesting:

Source:

1. Kiplinger Staff. The Minimum Savings You Need To Retire in All 50 States . Kiplinger, Nov. 2024, www.kiplinger.com/retirement/social-security/minimum-savings-to-retire-by-state . Accessed 15 Apr. 2025.

2. International Living Staff. Best Places to Retire in 2025: The Annual Global Retirement Index . International Living, 28 Nov. 2024, internationalliving.com/the-best-places-to-retire/. Accessed 15 Apr. 2025.

3. AARP Staff. “9 Great Affordable Places to Retire Abroad.” AARP , Feb. 2025, www.aarp.org/retirement/planning-for-retirement/info-2025/places-to-retire-abroad-cheap.html . Accessed 15 Apr. 2025.

4. Csiszar, John. “15 Most Affordable Places To Retire Abroad.” Nasdaq , 25 Aug. 2024, www.nasdaq.com/articles/15-most-affordable-places-retire-abroad . Accessed 15 Apr. 2025.

4. Investopedia Staff. Retirement Living Costs: These 6 States Will Drain Your Savings the Fastest . Investopedia, Nov. 2024, www.investopedia.com/most-expensive-states-to-retire-8729918 . Accessed 15 Apr. 2025.

What type of retirement savings plan does Academy Sports and Outdoors offer to its employees?

Academy Sports and Outdoors offers a 401(k) retirement savings plan to its employees.

Is there an employer match for the 401(k) plan at Academy Sports and Outdoors?

Yes, Academy Sports and Outdoors provides an employer match for contributions made to the 401(k) plan, subject to certain limits.

How can employees at Academy Sports and Outdoors enroll in the 401(k) plan?

Employees can enroll in the 401(k) plan at Academy Sports and Outdoors through the company’s benefits portal or by contacting the HR department for assistance.

What is the eligibility requirement for Academy Sports and Outdoors employees to participate in the 401(k) plan?

Most employees at Academy Sports and Outdoors are eligible to participate in the 401(k) plan after completing a specified period of service.

Can employees at Academy Sports and Outdoors take loans against their 401(k) accounts?

Yes, Academy Sports and Outdoors allows employees to take loans against their 401(k) accounts, subject to the plan’s terms and conditions.

What investment options are available in the Academy Sports and Outdoors 401(k) plan?

The 401(k) plan at Academy Sports and Outdoors offers a variety of investment options, including mutual funds, stocks, and bonds.

Does Academy Sports and Outdoors allow for hardship withdrawals from the 401(k) plan?

Yes, Academy Sports and Outdoors permits hardship withdrawals from the 401(k) plan under certain circumstances as defined by the plan.

What is the vesting schedule for employer contributions at Academy Sports and Outdoors?

The vesting schedule for employer contributions at Academy Sports and Outdoors is outlined in the 401(k) plan documents, typically based on years of service.

How often can employees change their contributions to the Academy Sports and Outdoors 401(k) plan?

Employees at Academy Sports and Outdoors can change their contribution amounts to the 401(k) plan during designated enrollment periods or as permitted by the plan.

What resources are available for Academy Sports and Outdoors employees to learn more about their 401(k) plan?

Academy Sports and Outdoors provides resources such as informational seminars, online tools, and access to financial advisors to help employees understand their 401(k) plan.

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For more information you can reach the plan administrator for Academy Sports and Outdoors at 1800 North Mason Road Katy, TX 77449; or by calling them at (281) 646-5200.