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Navigating Retirement: A Guide for Lumen Employees

'Lumen 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.

'Lumen 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 Lumen 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 Lumen 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

Lumen 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

Lumen 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 specific retirement benefits does Lumen Technologies, Inc. offer to employees who have dedicated many years of service to the company? In what ways do these benefits reflect Lumen's commitment to taking care of its employees post-retirement, and how do they align with the company's overall values regarding employee welfare and support?

Retirement Benefits: Lumen Technologies offers its employees retirement benefits that include 401(k) plans and pension options, reflecting its commitment to post-retirement welfare. These benefits are aligned with Lumen’s values of providing security and care for its employees after years of dedicated service. They are designed to ensure long-term financial stability for retirees, aligning with Lumen's mission of enhancing employee well-being(Lumen Technologies Inc_…).

As an employee of Lumen Technologies, Inc., how can you effectively plan for your retirement to maximize your benefits? What factors should you consider, and what resources does Lumen provide to help employees navigate the complexities of retirement planning to ensure a secure financial future?

Retirement Planning: As an employee of Lumen Technologies, you should consider factors like years of service, retirement plan contributions, and projected retirement age to maximize your benefits. Lumen provides resources such as retirement calculators and financial planning tools to help employees navigate these complexities and secure their financial future post-retirement(Lumen Technologies Inc_…).

How do Lumen Technologies, Inc.'s retirement plans compare with the industry standards? In which areas can Lumen improve its offerings to remain competitive and retain top talent while ensuring the financial security of its employees in their retirement years?

Comparison with Industry Standards: Lumen’s retirement plans are competitive within the industry, but improvements could be made in areas such as enhanced pension offerings or matching contributions in the 401(k) plans to attract and retain top talent. This would ensure financial security for employees in their retirement years while keeping Lumen competitive in the market(Lumen Technologies Inc_…).

Can you explain the role of the HRCC (Human Resources and Compensation Committee) at Lumen Technologies, Inc. in overseeing employee retirement plans? What measures does this committee take to ensure that retirement benefits remain aligned with the organizationâ€™s goals and employee expectations?

HRCC Role in Retirement Plans: The Human Resources and Compensation Committee (HRCC) at Lumen oversees retirement benefits to ensure they align with the company’s goals and employee expectations. The committee reviews and updates the plans regularly, ensuring they remain relevant and meet both the company’s financial objectives and the needs of its employees(Lumen Technologies Inc_…).

What changes to federal regulations or IRS limits in 2024 could potentially impact Lumen Technologies, Inc.'s retirement plans? How should employees prepare for these potential changes to ensure they are fully utilizing their benefits?

Federal Regulation Changes in 2024: Changes to IRS limits or federal regulations, such as adjustments to contribution caps or tax deductions, could impact Lumen’s retirement plans. Employees should stay informed about these changes to fully utilize their benefits, and Lumen’s HR team provides updates and resources to assist in navigating these regulatory adjustments(Lumen Technologies Inc_…).

How does Lumen Technologies, Inc. ensure that all employees are aware of their retirement options? What communication strategies does the company employ to make sure employees understand the specifics of their retirement benefits and the necessary steps for enrollment or participation?

Employee Awareness of Retirement Options: Lumen employs a variety of communication strategies, including workshops, online resources, and HR consultations, to ensure that employees are aware of their retirement options. Regular updates and easy access to information help employees understand the steps needed for enrollment or participation(Lumen Technologies Inc_…).

In the event of unforeseen circumstances, such as death or disability, how does Lumen Technologies, Inc. protect the retirement benefits of its employees and their families? What provisions are specifically designed to support employees and their loved ones during these challenging times?

Protection of Retirement Benefits: In cases of death or disability, Lumen has provisions to protect retirement benefits for employees and their families. Survivor benefits and disability accommodations are designed to provide continued financial security for employees and their loved ones during challenging times(Lumen Technologies Inc_…).

For employees nearing retirement at Lumen Technologies, Inc., what strategies should they adopt to ensure they transition smoothly out of the workforce? What resources or programs does Lumen offer to assist employees during this significant life change?

Transitioning to Retirement: Employees nearing retirement at Lumen can benefit from financial planning tools and transition programs offered by the company. These resources help ensure a smooth exit from the workforce and provide the necessary support for this significant life change(Lumen Technologies Inc_…).

How is Lumen Technologies, Inc. addressing the challenges of an aging workforce regarding retirement readiness? What initiatives or programs are in place to help older employees prepare for retirement and to facilitate knowledge transfer to younger employees?

Addressing an Aging Workforce: Lumen is addressing retirement readiness through programs that help older employees prepare for their transition into retirement. These initiatives include financial education, retirement planning resources, and mentorship programs to facilitate knowledge transfer to younger employees(Lumen Technologies Inc_…).

For employees who wish to learn more about the retirement benefits and planning processes offered by Lumen Technologies, Inc., what contact methods are available? How can employees reach out to the appropriate department for detailed inquiries and assistance regarding their retirement options?

Contact Methods for Retirement Inquiries: Employees wishing to learn more about Lumen’s retirement benefits can reach out to the HR department via phone, email, or the company’s internal benefits portal. Lumen’s HR team provides detailed assistance regarding retirement options and planning(Lumen Technologies Inc_…).