There are just a couple of things almost all NextEra Energy 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 NextEra Energy 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 NextEra Energy retiree about 30 years of retirement income.
As the economy constantly changes, a number of factors may force prospective NextEra Energy retirees to revisit the 4% rule. It may be worth considering annuities as an alternative.
As life expectancies increase, NextEra Energy 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 NextEra Energy.
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 the 401(k) plan offered by NextEra Energy?
The primary purpose of the 401(k) plan offered by NextEra Energy is to help employees save for retirement in a tax-advantaged way.
How can employees of NextEra Energy enroll in the 401(k) plan?
Employees of NextEra Energy can enroll in the 401(k) plan through the company’s benefits portal during the enrollment period or after they become eligible.
What types of contributions can employees make to the NextEra Energy 401(k) plan?
Employees can make pre-tax contributions, Roth (after-tax) contributions, and, in some cases, catch-up contributions if they are age 50 or older.
Does NextEra Energy offer a company match for 401(k) contributions?
Yes, NextEra Energy offers a company match to eligible employees who contribute to the 401(k) plan, enhancing their retirement savings.
What is the vesting schedule for the company match in NextEra Energy's 401(k) plan?
The vesting schedule for the company match in NextEra Energy's 401(k) plan typically follows a graded vesting schedule, where employees become fully vested after a certain number of years of service.
Can employees take loans against their 401(k) balance at NextEra Energy?
Yes, NextEra Energy allows employees to take loans against their 401(k) balance, subject to specific terms and conditions outlined in the plan.
What investment options are available in the NextEra Energy 401(k) plan?
The NextEra Energy 401(k) plan offers a variety of investment options, including mutual funds, target-date funds, and company stock.
How often can employees change their contribution amounts to the NextEra Energy 401(k) plan?
Employees can change their contribution amounts to the NextEra Energy 401(k) plan at any time, subject to the plan’s guidelines.
What happens to the 401(k) plan if an employee leaves NextEra Energy?
If an employee leaves NextEra Energy, they have several options for their 401(k) plan, including rolling it over to another retirement account, leaving it in the NextEra Energy plan, or cashing it out.
Is there a penalty for withdrawing funds from the NextEra Energy 401(k) plan before retirement age?
Yes, generally, there is a penalty for withdrawing funds from the NextEra Energy 401(k) plan before age 59½, along with potential income tax implications.