Losing your job is a catastrophic event for many folks and the people around them. While these times may seem like the lowest of lows, it is advised to refrain from making abrupt decisions that could further drive you down. Here are a few tips to consider before leaving American Electric Power.
1- BEFORE YOU LOSE YOUR JOB , open a line of credit at your bank or credit union. In addition, we advise you to open at least one credit card, or increase the credit limit on card(s) you already have. It is exceedingly hard to get a loan, get a line of credit or open a credit card after you lose your job. As you would expect, banks almost certainly do not want to lend money to people who are unemployed and since you don’t know how long it may take to find your next job, nor what emergencies may come up in the future, it’s wise to consider a back up plan for how you can access cash if need be. Though subtle, it is really important and wise to do, so don’t discount it. You won’t realize it probably, but many of you have never had a low credit score, or NOT been able to get a credit card, or a loan. As many of you are used to earning money your whole life, it’s something you just would never even consider. When you are unemployed, your credit rating and ability to get credit will almost certainly take a hit.
2- Build your resume and skills list using Career Path. Once your resume is polished, get on LinkedIn to pursue opportunities and connect with employers, friends, or even old coworkers. In addition, there should be some helpful posts located in the T-Space “Surplus Support” group with information on ways do this more easily
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3- Seek out and copy all Surplus Notifications. Take the extra step and print all your Surplus Notification materials, while also saving them as a PDF so you have a backup ready.
4- Keep a journal and jot down any thoughts , information, or really just anything that you want to take note of. Journal keeping is a great way to deal with these times. Not only does it help keep track of crucial information, but it helps keep tabs on discussions you have with any superiors regarding your surplus activities, and impending layoff. When stressed, it’s just good to keep good, accurate notes, with dates and times of discussions and who the participants of those discussions are.
5- Ask why and resolve anything you’re uncertain about. I’ve spoken with numerous people involved in this situation and have encountered an alarming amount of people that are STILL wondering what the criteria was that dictated their place the surplus list. Rather than letting this simmer in your mind, it’s smart and sometimes relieving to ask your supervisor or leadership team what the decision criteria was.
6- It’s also recommended to make a list of those around you whom you know are on the same boat as you, the surplus list. It is wise to remain in touch, support each other or just know who’s been cut. Get on Linkedin and connect with those close to you. You may feel upset or embarrassed, and your instinctive reaction may be to run away and hide. Confiding in positive-minded family, friends, former colleagues , and even career counselors and support groups can make a huge difference for you, and can help gain an alternative perspective on your situation. You are not alone. Many others in your company are in the same boat and they also want to discuss their frustrations.
7- Read and analyze all documents thoroughly. The ADEA sheets will list, by job title, the age of those in your universe, the population total of people in your universe with that title at that age, the number “selected” to participate in the surplus, and the number not selected. These documents convey how the universe maps by age and job title. When going through them, look out for anything that may be considered age discrimination. Typically, an excel file would be more helpful when sorting out this information.
8- Print out/download your entire corporate training history.
9- Print out/download all your previous year’s YTR (Your Total Rewards) statements.
10- Print out/download your appraisal history.
11- Print out/download your pay stubs.
12- Go through your Outlook and download any contacts you’d like to retain in your life – friends, colleagues, etc.
13- NETWORK, network, network. OR Linkedin , Linkedin, Linkedin. Whatever the source attempt to make as many connections as you can, and maintain your contacts – with peers, supervisors, vendors, etc. Despite your employment ending at American Electric Power, your relationship with everyone at American Electric Power doesn’t have to terminate as well. Some of these folks could play a huge role in helping you find your next endeavor?
How does the AEP System Retirement Savings Plan compare to other retirement plans offered by AEP, and what are the key features that employees should consider when deciding how to allocate their contributions? In particular, how might AEP employees maximize their benefits through the different contribution types available under the AEP System Retirement Savings Plan?
The AEP System Retirement Savings Plan (RSP) is a qualified 401(k) plan that allows employees to contribute up to 50% of their eligible compensation on a pre-tax, after-tax, or Roth 401(k) basis. AEP matches 100% of the first 1% and 70% of the next 5% of employee contributions, making it a valuable tool for maximizing retirement savings. Employees can select from 19 investment options and a self-directed brokerage account to tailor their portfolios. This plan compares favorably to other AEP retirement plans by offering flexibility in contributions and matching opportunities(KPCO_R_KPSC_1_72_Attach…).
What are the eligibility requirements for the AEP Supplemental Benefit Plan for AEP employees, and how does this plan provide benefits that exceed the limitations imposed by the IRS? AEP employees who are considering this plan need to understand how the plan's unique features may impact their retirement planning strategies.
The AEP Supplemental Benefit Plan is a nonqualified defined benefit plan designed for employees whose compensation exceeds IRS limits. It provides benefits beyond those offered under the AEP Retirement Plan by including additional years of service and incentive pay. This plan disregards IRS limits on annual compensation and benefits, allowing participants to receive higher benefits. Employees should consider how these enhanced features can significantly boost their retirement income when planning their strategies(KPCO_R_KPSC_1_72_Attach…).
Can you explain how the Incentive Compensation Deferral Plan functions for eligible AEP employees and what specific conditions need to be met for participating in this plan? Furthermore, AEP employees should be aware of the implications of deferring a portion of their compensation and how it affects their financial planning during retirement.
The AEP Incentive Compensation Deferral Plan allows eligible employees to defer up to 80% of their vested performance units. This plan does not offer matching contributions but provides investment options similar to those in the qualified RSP. Employees may not withdraw funds until termination of employment, though a single pre-2005 contribution withdrawal is permitted, subject to a 10% penalty. Employees need to consider how deferring compensation affects their cash flow and long-term retirement plans(KPCO_R_KPSC_1_72_Attach…).
How can AEP employees achieve their retirement savings goals through the other Voluntary Deferred Compensation Plans offered by AEP? In addressing this question, it would be essential to consider the specific benefits and potential drawbacks of these plans for AEP employees in terms of financial security during retirement.
AEP's other Voluntary Deferred Compensation Plans allow eligible participants to defer a portion of their salary and incentive compensation. These plans are unfunded and do not offer employer contributions, making them ideal for employees seeking additional tax-advantaged retirement savings. However, since they are not funded by the company, participants assume some risk, and the plans may not provide immediate financial security(KPCO_R_KPSC_1_72_Attach…).
What options are available for AEP employees to withdraw funds from their accounts under the AEP System Retirement Plan, and how do these options compare to those offered by the AEP System Retirement Savings Plan? AEP employees need to be informed about these withdrawal options to make effective plans for their post-retirement needs.
Under the AEP System Retirement Plan, employees can access their funds upon retirement or termination, with options including lump-sum payments or annuities. The AEP System Retirement Savings Plan offers more flexibility with in-service withdrawals and various distribution options. Employees should carefully compare these withdrawal choices to align with their retirement needs and tax considerations(KPCO_R_KPSC_1_72_Attach…).
In what scenarios might AEP employees benefit from being grandfathered into their retirement plans, and how does this affect their retirement benefits? A comprehensive understanding of the implications of being grandfathered can provide significant advantages for eligible AEP employees as they prepare for retirement.
AEP employees grandfathered into older retirement plans, such as those employed before 12/31/2000, benefit from higher retirement payouts under previous pension formulas. This offers a significant advantage, as employees can receive more favorable terms compared to newer cash balance formulas. Understanding these grandfathered benefits can help eligible employees plan for a more secure retirement(KPCO_R_KPSC_1_72_Attach…).
How can AEP employees take advantage of the matching contributions offered under the AEP System Retirement Savings Plan and what strategies can be implemented to maximize these benefits? Understanding the contribution limits and matching algorithms of AEP is crucial for employees aiming to enhance their retirement savings.
AEP employees can maximize matching contributions under the AEP System Retirement Savings Plan by contributing at least 6% of their compensation, receiving a 100% match on the first 1% and 70% on the next 5%. To enhance savings, employees should ensure they are contributing enough to take full advantage of the company's match, effectively doubling a portion of their contributions(KPCO_R_KPSC_1_72_Attach…).
What are the key considerations for AEP employees regarding the investment options available in the AEP System Retirement Savings Plan, and how can they tailor their portfolios to align with their long-term financial goals? Employees should be equipped with the knowledge to make informed investment decisions that influence their retirement outcomes.
The AEP System Retirement Savings Plan offers 19 investment options and a self-directed brokerage account, providing employees with a variety of choices to build their portfolios. Employees should evaluate these options based on their risk tolerance and long-term financial goals, aligning their investments with their retirement timeline and desired outcomes(KPCO_R_KPSC_1_72_Attach…).
As AEP transitions into more complex retirement options, what resources are available for employees seeking additional assistance with their benefits, particularly regarding the complexities of the AEP Supplemental Retirement Savings Plan? It’s essential for AEP employees to know where and how to obtain accurate support for navigating their retirement plans.
As AEP introduces more complex retirement options, employees can access resources such as financial advisors, internal retirement planning tools, and educational webinars to navigate their benefits. Understanding these resources can help employees make informed decisions, particularly when dealing with the intricacies of the AEP Supplemental Retirement Savings Plan(KPCO_R_KPSC_1_72_Attach…).
How can AEP employees contact the company for more information regarding their retirement benefits and plans? Knowing the right channels for communication is important for AEP employees to gain clarity and guidance on their retirement options and to address any specific inquiries or uncertainties they may have about their benefits.
AEP employees can contact the company’s HR department or use online portals to access information about their retirement benefits and plans. Timely communication through these channels ensures employees receive support and clarity regarding any concerns or inquiries related to their retirement options(KPCO_R_KPSC_1_72_Attach…).