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Navigating Retirement: A Guide for Blackstone Employees

'Blackstone 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.

'Blackstone 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 Blackstone 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 Blackstone 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

Blackstone 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

Blackstone 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 is the 401(k) plan offered by Blackstone?

The 401(k) plan at Blackstone is a retirement savings plan that allows employees to save a portion of their salary before taxes are deducted.

How does Blackstone match employee contributions to the 401(k) plan?

Blackstone offers a matching contribution for employee contributions to the 401(k) plan, typically matching a percentage of the employee's contributions up to a certain limit.

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

Employees at Blackstone are generally eligible to participate in the 401(k) plan after completing a specific period of service, often within the first year of employment.

Can employees at Blackstone change their contribution percentage to the 401(k) plan?

Yes, employees at Blackstone can change their contribution percentage to the 401(k) plan at designated times throughout the year.

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

Blackstone's 401(k) plan offers a variety of investment options, including mutual funds, index funds, and target-date funds tailored to different risk levels.

Does Blackstone provide educational resources for employees regarding the 401(k) plan?

Yes, Blackstone offers educational resources and tools to help employees understand their 401(k) options and make informed investment decisions.

What is the vesting schedule for Blackstone's 401(k) matching contributions?

The vesting schedule for Blackstone's 401(k) matching contributions typically requires employees to work for a certain number of years before they fully own the matched funds.

Can Blackstone employees take loans against their 401(k) savings?

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

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

Employees can access their 401(k) account information through Blackstone's designated online portal or by contacting the plan administrator.

What happens to a Blackstone employee's 401(k) if they leave the company?

If a Blackstone employee leaves the company, they can roll over their 401(k) balance into an IRA or a new employer's retirement plan, or they may choose to cash out, subject to taxes and penalties.