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Navigating Retirement: A Guide for Southwestern Energy Employees

'Southwestern Energy 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.

'Southwestern Energy 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 Southwestern Energy 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 Southwestern Energy 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

Southwestern Energy 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

Southwestern Energy 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 plan does Southwestern Energy offer to its employees?

Southwestern Energy offers a 401(k) Savings Plan to help employees save for retirement.

How can Southwestern Energy employees enroll in the 401(k) Savings Plan?

Employees can enroll in the Southwestern Energy 401(k) Savings Plan through the company’s HR portal or by contacting the HR department for assistance.

Does Southwestern Energy match employee contributions to the 401(k) Savings Plan?

Yes, Southwestern Energy provides a matching contribution to the 401(k) Savings Plan, which helps employees boost their retirement savings.

What is the maximum employee contribution percentage allowed in the Southwestern Energy 401(k) Savings Plan?

Employees can contribute up to the IRS limit, which is subject to change annually. Southwestern Energy encourages employees to check the latest guidelines.

Can Southwestern Energy employees change their contribution rates to the 401(k) Savings Plan?

Yes, employees at Southwestern Energy can change their contribution rates at any time, subject to the plan’s rules.

What investment options are available in the Southwestern Energy 401(k) Savings Plan?

The Southwestern Energy 401(k) Savings Plan offers a variety of investment options, including mutual funds, target-date funds, and other investment vehicles.

Is there a vesting schedule for the employer match in the Southwestern Energy 401(k) Savings Plan?

Yes, Southwestern Energy has a vesting schedule for the employer match, which means employees need to work for a certain period before they fully own the matched contributions.

Can Southwestern Energy employees take loans against their 401(k) Savings Plan?

Yes, employees may have the option to take loans against their Southwestern Energy 401(k) Savings Plan, subject to specific terms and conditions.

How does Southwestern Energy provide information about the 401(k) Savings Plan to its employees?

Southwestern Energy provides information about the 401(k) Savings Plan through employee orientation sessions, the HR portal, and regular communications.

Are there any fees associated with the Southwestern Energy 401(k) Savings Plan?

Yes, there may be fees associated with the administration and investment options of the Southwestern Energy 401(k) Savings Plan. Employees are encouraged to review the plan documents for details.