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Navigating Retirement: A Guide for W.R. Grace Employees

'W.R. Grace 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.

'W.R. Grace 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 W.R. Grace 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 W.R. Grace 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

W.R. Grace 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

W.R. Grace 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 W.R. Grace?

The 401(k) plan offered by W.R. Grace is a retirement savings plan that allows employees to save a portion of their paycheck before taxes are taken out.

How can I enroll in the W.R. Grace 401(k) plan?

Employees can enroll in the W.R. Grace 401(k) plan by completing the enrollment form available through the HR department or the company’s benefits portal.

Does W.R. Grace match employee contributions to the 401(k) plan?

Yes, W.R. Grace offers a matching contribution to the 401(k) plan, which helps employees boost their retirement savings.

What is the maximum contribution limit for the W.R. Grace 401(k) plan?

The maximum contribution limit for the W.R. Grace 401(k) plan is in accordance with IRS guidelines, which are updated annually.

Can I change my contribution rate to the W.R. Grace 401(k) plan?

Yes, employees can change their contribution rate to the W.R. Grace 401(k) plan at any time, subject to certain restrictions.

What investment options are available in the W.R. Grace 401(k) plan?

The W.R. Grace 401(k) plan offers a variety of investment options, including mutual funds, target-date funds, and other investment vehicles.

When can I start withdrawing funds from my W.R. Grace 401(k) plan?

Employees can start withdrawing funds from their W.R. Grace 401(k) plan upon reaching age 59½ or under certain circumstances such as financial hardship.

Are loans available through the W.R. Grace 401(k) plan?

Yes, W.R. Grace allows participants to take loans against their 401(k) savings, subject to specific terms and conditions.

What happens to my W.R. Grace 401(k) plan if I leave the company?

If you leave W.R. Grace, you can choose to roll over your 401(k) balance to another retirement account, cash out, or leave it in the W.R. Grace plan if eligible.

How often can I make changes to my W.R. Grace 401(k) investment allocations?

Employees can typically make changes to their investment allocations in the W.R. Grace 401(k) plan on a quarterly basis or as specified in the plan documents.