Annuities Vs. IRA Withdrawals at 4% Rule for Ball Corporation Employees

There are just a couple of things almost all Ball Corporation retirees need when they hit retirement: predictable income and protection against a cluster of risks, which include longevity risk, performance risk and sequence-of-returns risk.

In the past we have seen retiring Ball Corporation employees utilize the “4% rule,” where retirees take annual withdrawals start at 4% of the entire portfolio and increase with inflation. They then keep the remainder of the portfolio with at least 50% invested in equities. Based on historical data, this would give a Ball Corporation retiree about 30 years of retirement income.

As the economy constantly changes, a number of factors may force prospective Ball Corporation retirees to revisit the 4% rule. It may be worth considering annuities as an alternative.

As life expectancies increase, Ball Corporation retirees need to prepare for expenses over a longer time frame. In the past we would plan for a 15 to 20 year retirement, but now we need to prepare for a 30 to 35 year retirement. What is available to assist meeting the 35-year time frame?  

The annuity strategy can assist with a few of the pitfalls we see in the 4% rule. For example:

If you need $50,000 per year in retirement and need that for 30 years, you may need $1.2 million in fixed income at a 3% interest rate. BUT if you look to fund $50,000 for 30 years, you can cover that expense with $800,000 by choosing the annuity option.

The other pitfall with the 4% rule is that it may not reflect a client’s risk tolerance. When you are accumulating assets, you can afford more volatility and can take on more risk than when in the retirement and withdrawal phase after leaving Ball Corporation. 

Also, should we see a drop in the market, you would be able to reduce your income using the 4% rule, which you cannot do if you choose an annuity option.

 

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What type of retirement plan does Ball Corporation offer to its employees?

Ball Corporation offers a 401(k) Savings Plan to its employees to help them save for retirement.

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

Ball Corporation provides a matching contribution to employee 401(k) contributions, typically matching a percentage of what employees contribute up to a certain limit.

Can employees at Ball Corporation choose how their 401(k) contributions are invested?

Yes, employees at Ball Corporation can choose from a variety of investment options for their 401(k) contributions, allowing them to tailor their investment strategy.

What is the eligibility requirement for Ball Corporation employees to participate in the 401(k) plan?

Most employees at Ball Corporation are eligible to participate in the 401(k) plan after completing a specified period of service, typically within their first year of employment.

Does Ball Corporation offer any educational resources for employees to learn about the 401(k) plan?

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

What is the maximum contribution limit for employees participating in Ball Corporation’s 401(k) plan?

The maximum contribution limit for employees in Ball Corporation’s 401(k) plan is set by the IRS and may change annually; employees should check the latest limits for the current year.

Are there any fees associated with Ball Corporation's 401(k) plan?

Yes, Ball Corporation's 401(k) plan may have certain administrative fees, which are disclosed in the plan documents provided to employees.

Can employees take loans against their 401(k) savings at Ball Corporation?

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

What happens to employees' 401(k) savings if they leave Ball Corporation?

If employees leave Ball Corporation, they can roll over their 401(k) savings into another retirement account, cash out, or leave the funds in the Ball Corporation plan, depending on the plan’s rules.

Does Ball Corporation allow for after-tax contributions to the 401(k) plan?

Yes, Ball Corporation may allow for after-tax contributions to the 401(k) plan, enabling employees to save additional funds for retirement.

With the current political climate we are in it is important to keep up with current news and remain knowledgeable about your benefits.
Ball Corporation offers a defined benefit pension plan called the Ball Corporation Pension Plan. Employees become eligible after one year and vested after five years of service. The plan calculates benefits based on final average salary and years of service. Ball’s 401(k) plan, known as the Ball Corporation 401(k) Savings Plan, matches employee contributions up to 4% when contributing 5% or more. Immediate 100% vesting is provided for all contributions. [Source: Ball Benefits Overview, 2022, p. 12]
Ball Corporation transferred its pension liabilities to Prudential Annuity to manage costs and streamline administration. The company reported strong financial results for Q1 2024 and continues to offer competitive benefits including a 401(k) plan with company match and additional contributions. Understanding these benefits is vital given the current tax and political landscape.
Ball Corporation provides stock options and RSUs as part of its compensation packages. Stock options allow employees to purchase shares at a set price post-vesting, while RSUs are awarded with vesting conditions such as tenure or performance. In 2022, Ball Corporation enhanced its equity programs with performance-based RSUs. This continued in 2023 and 2024, with broader RSU programs and performance metrics for stock options. Executives and middle management are the main recipients, ensuring alignment with long-term company goals. [Source: Ball Corporation Financial Results 2022-2024, p. 58]
Ball Corporation’s 2022 healthcare updates included improved mental health support and expanded telehealth services. The company introduced additional wellness programs and preventive care options by 2023. For 2024, Ball Corporation focused on maintaining comprehensive health coverage and integrating innovative solutions. The strategy aimed to support overall employee well-being with digital health tools and comprehensive care options. Ball Corporation’s approach reflected a commitment to addressing evolving employee needs and enhancing benefits. The updates were designed to improve employee satisfaction and health management.

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