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 General Mills.
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 General Mills, your relationship with everyone at General Mills doesn’t have to terminate as well. Some of these folks could play a huge role in helping you find your next endeavor?
How can employees of General Mills, Inc. maximize their benefits under the BCTGM Retirement Plan, and what factors are considered in determining pension amounts for those nearing retirement? This question aims to explore the intricate details of how General Mills, Inc. structures its pension benefits to support employees’ future financial stability. It's important for employees to understand the value of their years of service and how this affects their ultimate pension payout as they approach retirement.
Maximizing Benefits under the BCTGM Retirement Plan: Employees of General Mills can maximize their benefits under the BCTGM Retirement Plan by understanding how their years of service and negotiated benefit levels directly affect the pension they receive. The pension amount is determined by the length of service and a defined benefit formula based on the number of years of Benefit Service accrued. As employees approach retirement, they should consider whether they meet eligibility criteria for early or normal retirement, as these factors influence the ultimate pension payout(General_Mills_2024_Pens…).
What are the eligibility requirements for participating in the BCTGM Retirement Plan at General Mills, Inc., and how does this participation impact future retirement benefits? Employees should be well-informed about what constitutes eligibility to participate in the retirement plan. Understanding criteria such as service length, employment status, and union participation is crucial, as it directly relates to their ability to accrue retirement benefits.
Eligibility Requirements for BCTGM Retirement Plan: To participate in the BCTGM Retirement Plan, employees must be regular employees of General Mills covered by a collective bargaining agreement. Eligibility is automatic after completing a probationary period. Participation impacts future retirement benefits as employees begin to accrue pension benefits based on years of service, which contributes to their final payout during retirement(General_Mills_2024_Pens…).
In what ways does General Mills, Inc. ensure that benefits from the BCTGM Retirement Plan remain protected under federal law, and what role does the Pension Benefit Guaranty Corporation (PBGC) play in this? Knowledge of the protections available can significantly influence employees' assurance in the viability of their pension benefits. It is vital for employees to recognize how federal guarantees work in safeguarding their retirement benefits.
Federal Law Protections and PBGC's Role: The BCTGM Retirement Plan is protected under federal law, ensuring that employees’ retirement benefits are safeguarded. The Pension Benefit Guaranty Corporation (PBGC) insures vested benefits, including disability and survivor pensions, up to certain limits. This protection provides employees with assurance that their pensions are protected, even in the event of plan termination(General_Mills_2024_Pens…).
How does General Mills, Inc. address the complexities of vesting in the BCTGM Retirement Plan, and what can employees do if they are concerned about their vested rights? Vesting is a key concept that affects employees' access to benefits over their careers. Employees need to understand the vesting schedule outlined by General Mills, Inc. and the implications it has on their retirement plans.
Vesting in the BCTGM Retirement Plan: Employees vest in the BCTGM Retirement Plan after completing five years of Eligibility Service or upon reaching age 65. Once vested, employees have a non-forfeitable right to their pension benefits, which means they retain their pension rights even if they leave the company before reaching retirement age(General_Mills_2024_Pens…).
What options are available to employees of General Mills, Inc. if they experience a change in their employment status after being vested in the BCTGM Retirement Plan, and how might this impact their future retirement pensions? This question prompts discussion on the plan's provisions regarding reemployment and what employees should be aware of when considering changes to their employment status.
Impact of Employment Status Changes on Pension: If an employee's status changes after being vested in the BCTGM Retirement Plan, such as leaving the company, they may still be entitled to pension benefits. The plan outlines provisions for reemployment and how prior service years are counted toward future pension calculations. Employees who are reemployed may have their previously earned service restored(General_Mills_2024_Pens…).
How does the BCTGM Retirement Plan at General Mills, Inc. work in conjunction with Social Security benefits, and what should employees be aware of regarding offsets or deductions? This can encompass the interplay between corporate pension plans and governmental benefits, which is critical for employees to plan their retirement effectively.
Coordination with Social Security Benefits: The BCTGM Retirement Plan operates in addition to Social Security benefits. There are no direct offsets between the pension and Social Security benefits, meaning employees receive both independently. However, employees should be aware of how the timing of drawing Social Security and pension benefits may affect their overall financial situation(General_Mills_2024_Pens…).
What steps must employees of General Mills, Inc. take to initiate a claim for benefits under the BCTGM Retirement Plan, and how does the claims process ensure fairness and transparency? A clear comprehension of the claims process is essential for employees to secure their pension benefits. This question encourages exploration of the procedures in place to assist employees in understanding their rights and options.
Claiming Benefits under the BCTGM Retirement Plan: Employees must terminate employment before claiming their BCTGM Retirement Plan benefits. The claims process involves submitting the required forms, and employees must ensure they provide all necessary documentation for a smooth process. The pension is generally paid monthly, with lump-sum options available under specific circumstances(General_Mills_2024_Pens…).
How does the retirement benefit formula of the BCTGM Retirement Plan operate, and what specific factors should an employee of General Mills, Inc. consider while planning for retirement? Delving into the calculations involved in determining retirement benefits is important for employees to understand how their service years and other contributions come together to form their final retirement payout.
Retirement Benefit Formula: The retirement benefit formula is calculated based on the years of Benefit Service and a defined benefit level. As of 2024, for each year of Benefit Service, employees receive $87 per month (increasing to $88 after June 1, 2025). Planning for retirement involves considering how long they will work and the benefit level in place at the time of retirement(General_Mills_2024_Pens…).
What additional resources or support does General Mills, Inc. provide to assist employees in planning their retirement and ensuring they make the most of their benefits offered under the BCTGM Retirement Plan? Understanding the tools and resources available can empower employees to take proactive steps in managing their retirement plans effectively.
Resources for Retirement Planning: General Mills offers resources like the Benefits Service Center and online portals (e.g., www.mygenmillsbenefits.com) to assist employees with retirement planning. These tools help employees understand their benefits, calculate potential payouts, and explore options for maximizing their retirement income(General_Mills_2024_Pens…).
How can employees contact General Mills, Inc. for further information about the BCTGM Retirement Plan or specific queries related to their retirement benefits? This question is crucial so employees know the appropriate channels for communication and can seek clarification on any concerns they may have regarding their retirement planning.
Contact Information for Plan Inquiries: Employees can contact General Mills for more information about the BCTGM Retirement Plan through the Benefits Service Center at 1-877-430-4015 or visit www.mygenmillsbenefits.com. This contact provides direct access to support and answers to questions about their retirement benefits(General_Mills_2024_Pens…).