There are just a couple of things almost all American Water Works 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 American Water Works 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 American Water Works retiree about 30 years of retirement income.
As the economy constantly changes, a number of factors may force prospective American Water Works retirees to revisit the 4% rule. It may be worth considering annuities as an alternative.
As life expectancies increase, American Water Works 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 American Water Works.
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 savings plan does American Water Works offer to its employees?
American Water Works offers a 401(k) retirement savings plan to its employees.
How can employees of American Water Works enroll in the 401(k) plan?
Employees of American Water Works can enroll in the 401(k) plan through the company’s HR portal or by contacting the HR department for assistance.
Does American Water Works match employee contributions to the 401(k) plan?
Yes, American Water Works provides a matching contribution to employee 401(k) plan contributions, subject to certain limits.
What is the maximum contribution limit for the American Water Works 401(k) plan?
The maximum contribution limit for the American Water Works 401(k) plan is determined by IRS guidelines, which may change annually.
Can employees of American Water Works take loans against their 401(k) savings?
Yes, American Water Works allows employees to take loans against their 401(k) savings, subject to the plan’s terms and conditions.
What investment options are available in the American Water Works 401(k) plan?
The American Water Works 401(k) plan offers a variety of investment options, including mutual funds, target-date funds, and other investment vehicles.
When can employees of American Water Works start withdrawing from their 401(k) accounts?
Employees of American Water Works can start withdrawing from their 401(k) accounts at age 59½, or earlier under certain circumstances.
Is there a vesting schedule for employer contributions in the American Water Works 401(k) plan?
Yes, American Water Works has a vesting schedule for employer contributions, which determines how much of the employer match employees are entitled to based on their years of service.
How often can employees of American Water Works change their 401(k) contribution amounts?
Employees of American Water Works can change their 401(k) contribution amounts at any time, subject to plan rules.
Does American Water Works provide educational resources for employees regarding their 401(k) plan?
Yes, American Water Works provides educational resources and tools to help employees understand their 401(k) plan and make informed investment decisions.
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