There are just a couple of things almost all General Electric 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 General Electric 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 General Electric retiree about 30 years of retirement income.
As the economy constantly changes, a number of factors may force prospective General Electric retirees to revisit the 4% rule. It may be worth considering annuities as an alternative.
As life expectancies increase, General Electric 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 General Electric.
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 is the primary purpose of General Electric's 401(k) Savings Plan?
The primary purpose of General Electric's 401(k) Savings Plan is to help employees save for retirement by allowing them to contribute a portion of their salary into a tax-advantaged account.
How can employees of General Electric enroll in the 401(k) Savings Plan?
Employees of General Electric can enroll in the 401(k) Savings Plan by accessing the company’s benefits portal and following the enrollment instructions provided there.
Does General Electric offer matching contributions to the 401(k) Savings Plan?
Yes, General Electric offers matching contributions to the 401(k) Savings Plan, which helps employees increase their retirement savings.
What types of investment options are available in General Electric's 401(k) Savings Plan?
General Electric's 401(k) Savings Plan typically offers a range of investment options, including mutual funds, stocks, and bonds, allowing employees to choose based on their risk tolerance.
When can employees of General Electric start contributing to the 401(k) Savings Plan?
Employees of General Electric can start contributing to the 401(k) Savings Plan after they have completed their eligibility requirements, which usually include a waiting period.
What is the maximum contribution limit for General Electric's 401(k) Savings Plan?
The maximum contribution limit for General Electric's 401(k) Savings Plan is subject to IRS regulations and may change annually. Employees should refer to the latest IRS guidelines for the current limit.
Can employees of General Electric take loans against their 401(k) Savings Plan?
Yes, General Electric allows employees to take loans against their 401(k) Savings Plan, subject to certain conditions and limits set by the plan.
How does General Electric's 401(k) Savings Plan handle employee contributions?
General Electric's 401(k) Savings Plan allows employees to set a percentage of their salary to be automatically deducted and contributed to their retirement account.
What happens to the 401(k) Savings Plan if an employee leaves General Electric?
If an employee leaves General Electric, they can choose to roll over their 401(k) Savings Plan balance to another retirement account, cash out, or leave the funds in the plan if permitted.
Is there a vesting period for General Electric's matching contributions in the 401(k) Savings Plan?
Yes, General Electric has a vesting schedule for matching contributions, meaning employees must work for a certain period before they fully own those contributions.
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