Navigating Retirement: Annuities vs. IRA Withdrawals for Los Angeles Fire and Police Pensions Employees

There are just a couple of things almost all Los Angeles Fire and Police Pensions 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 Los Angeles Fire and Police Pensions 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 Los Angeles Fire and Police Pensions retiree about 30 years of retirement income.

As the economy constantly changes, a number of factors may force prospective Los Angeles Fire and Police Pensions retirees to revisit the 4% rule. It may be worth considering annuities as an alternative.

As life expectancies increase, Los Angeles Fire and Police Pensions 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 Los Angeles Fire and Police Pensions. 

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.

 

Articles you may find interesting:

Loading...

 

What is the purpose of the 401k/Savings Plan offered by Los Angeles Fire and Police Pensions?

The purpose of the 401k/Savings Plan offered by Los Angeles Fire and Police Pensions is to help employees save for retirement by allowing them to contribute a portion of their salary to a tax-advantaged account.

How can employees of Los Angeles Fire and Police Pensions enroll in the 401k/Savings Plan?

Employees of Los Angeles Fire and Police Pensions can enroll in the 401k/Savings Plan by completing the enrollment form available on the company's intranet or by contacting the HR department for assistance.

What types of contributions can employees make to the 401k/Savings Plan at Los Angeles Fire and Police Pensions?

Employees at Los Angeles Fire and Police Pensions can make pre-tax contributions, Roth (after-tax) contributions, and possibly employer matching contributions, depending on the plan specifics.

Is there a minimum contribution amount required for the 401k/Savings Plan at Los Angeles Fire and Police Pensions?

Yes, Los Angeles Fire and Police Pensions may have a minimum contribution amount, typically around 1% of the employee's salary, but employees should check the plan documents for specific details.

What is the maximum contribution limit for the 401k/Savings Plan at Los Angeles Fire and Police Pensions?

The maximum contribution limit for the 401k/Savings Plan at Los Angeles Fire and Police Pensions is subject to IRS regulations, which can change annually. Employees should refer to the latest IRS guidelines for the current limits.

Does Los Angeles Fire and Police Pensions offer employer matching contributions for the 401k/Savings Plan?

Yes, Los Angeles Fire and Police Pensions offers employer matching contributions to the 401k/Savings Plan, which can help employees increase their retirement savings.

How often can employees change their contribution amounts to the 401k/Savings Plan at Los Angeles Fire and Police Pensions?

Employees at Los Angeles Fire and Police Pensions can typically change their contribution amounts at any time, but they should check the plan rules for any specific restrictions.

What investment options are available within the 401k/Savings Plan at Los Angeles Fire and Police Pensions?

The 401k/Savings Plan at Los Angeles Fire and Police Pensions offers a variety of investment options, including mutual funds, target-date funds, and possibly other investment vehicles, depending on the plan.

Can employees take loans against their 401k/Savings Plan balance at Los Angeles Fire and Police Pensions?

Yes, employees may be able to take loans against their 401k/Savings Plan balance at Los Angeles Fire and Police Pensions, subject to the terms and conditions of the plan.

What happens to the 401k/Savings Plan when an employee leaves Los Angeles Fire and Police Pensions?

When an employee leaves Los Angeles Fire and Police Pensions, they have several options for their 401k/Savings Plan, including rolling it over to an IRA or another qualified plan, cashing it out, or leaving it in the plan if permitted.

*Please see disclaimer for more information

Relevant Articles

Check Out Articles for Los Angeles Fire and Police Pensions employees