Navigating Retirement: Annuities vs. IRA Withdrawals for Maximus Employees

There are just a couple of things almost all Maximus 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 Maximus 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 Maximus retiree about 30 years of retirement income.

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

As life expectancies increase, Maximus 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 Maximus. 

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 401(k) plan offered by Maximus?

The 401(k) plan offered by Maximus is a retirement savings plan that allows employees to save a portion of their paycheck before taxes are taken out.

How can I enroll in the Maximus 401(k) plan?

You can enroll in the Maximus 401(k) plan by completing the enrollment form available through the HR portal or by contacting the HR department for assistance.

Does Maximus match employee contributions to the 401(k) plan?

Yes, Maximus offers a matching contribution to employee 401(k) plans, which helps to enhance your retirement savings.

What is the maximum contribution limit for the Maximus 401(k) plan?

The maximum contribution limit for the Maximus 401(k) plan is set annually by the IRS, and you can check the latest limits on the IRS website or through Maximus’s HR resources.

Can I change my contribution percentage to the Maximus 401(k) plan?

Yes, you can change your contribution percentage to the Maximus 401(k) plan at any time by submitting a request through the HR portal.

When can I start withdrawing from my Maximus 401(k) plan?

You can start withdrawing from your Maximus 401(k) plan at age 59½, or earlier under certain circumstances such as financial hardship.

Are there any fees associated with the Maximus 401(k) plan?

Yes, there may be administrative fees associated with the Maximus 401(k) plan, which are outlined in the plan documents provided to employees.

Does Maximus provide investment options within the 401(k) plan?

Yes, Maximus provides a variety of investment options within the 401(k) plan, allowing employees to choose based on their risk tolerance and retirement goals.

How often can I change my investment allocations in the Maximus 401(k) plan?

Employees can change their investment allocations in the Maximus 401(k) plan as often as they wish, subject to the plan's guidelines.

What happens to my Maximus 401(k) plan if I leave the company?

If you leave Maximus, you have several options regarding your 401(k) plan, including rolling it over to another retirement account, cashing it out, or leaving it with Maximus.

With the current political climate we are in it is important to keep up with current news and remain knowledgeable about your benefits.
Plan Name: Maximus Pension Plan Years of Service and Age Qualification: Employees are generally eligible for the Maximus Pension Plan after completing 5 years of service and reaching age 65. Pension Formula: The pension is calculated based on a formula that includes years of service and average compensation. Specifics are detailed in the plan document. Plan Name: Maximus 401(k) Plan Who Qualifies: All full-time employees are eligible to participate in the Maximus 401(k) Plan after completing 30 days of service. 401(k) Details: Employees can contribute a percentage of their salary, with the company offering a matching contribution up to 4%.
In response to decreased demand for its services and the need to streamline operations, Maximus announced a plan to cut approximately 1,000 positions globally. This move is part of a broader strategy to reduce costs and enhance operational efficiency. The layoffs are expected to impact various departments, including customer support and IT services.
Maximus offers stock options and RSUs to its employees as part of its compensation package. These are typically available to senior management and key employees based on performance and tenure. The specific types of stock options and RSUs include non-qualified stock options (NSOs) and time-vested RSUs.
2023: Maximus has been actively expanding its mental health and telehealth services as part of its benefits package. There has been an increased emphasis on comprehensive care that includes mental health support and preventive services. 2024: The company has introduced new wellness initiatives, including more flexible health plans and enhanced coverage options for chronic conditions

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