How Can You Maximize Your Employee Benefits?

August 7, 2023
Stock awards and 401(k)s can play a big role in a retirement strategy. But the role that our employers play in our financial lives is often much deeper.

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Many people's financial lives are deeply intertwined with their employee benefits. Saving for retirement in a 401(k) is a vital part of many of our financial plans. And an increasing number of employees receive restricted stock units as part of their compensation package—or they enroll in their employer's Employee Stock Purchase Plan. Is there a holistic approach to treating financial planning when so much is tied to one's employer?

In episode of Financial Decoder, we dig into the details of how to maximize your workplace benefits. First, Mark speaks with Brian Bender, head of Workplace Financial Services at Schwab. They discuss the three most important things people need to know about their 401(k) plan, changing jobs, how to get more engaged in your retirement savings, what learning resources are available, and much more.

Next, Mark talks with Chris Genetti. Chris is a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ professional and corporate financial consultant at Schwab, based in Santa Clara, California. Mark and Chris discuss the role of equity compensation in a financial plan, what financial wellness looks like, and some new directions in employee benefits.

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The information provided here is for general informational purposes only and should not be considered an individualized recommendation or personalized investment advice. The investment strategies mentioned here may not be suitable for everyone. Each investor needs to review an investment strategy for his or her own particular situation before making any investment decision. All expressions of opinion are subject to change without notice in reaction to shifting market conditions. Data contained herein from third-party providers is obtained from what are considered reliable sources. However, its accuracy, completeness, or reliability cannot be guaranteed. Examples provided are for illustrative purposes only and not intended to be reflective of results you can expect to achieve.

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​Supporting documentation for any claims or statistical information is available upon request.

A rollover of retirement plan assets to an IRA is not your only option. Carefully consider all of your available options which may include but not be limited to keeping your assets in your former employer's plan; rolling over assets to a new employer's plan; or taking a cash distribution (taxes and possible withdrawal penalties may apply). [Prior to a decision, be sure to understand the benefits and limitations of your available options and consider factors such as differences in investment related expenses, plan or account fees, available investment options, distribution options, legal and creditor protections, the availability of loan provisions, tax treatment, and other concerns specific to your individual circumstances.

Money market funds are neither insured nor guaranteed by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation or any other government agency. Although the fund seeks to preserve the value of your investment at $1.00 per share, it is possible to lose money by investing in the fund.

Fixed income securities are subject to increased loss of principal during periods of rising interest rates. Fixed income investments are subject to various other risks including changes in credit quality, market valuations, liquidity, prepayments, early redemption, corporate events, tax ramifications and other factors.

Schwab Stock Plan Services provides equity compensation plan services and other financial services to corporations and employees through Charles Schwab & Co., Inc. ("Schwab"). Schwab, a registered broker‐ dealer, offers brokerage and custody services to its customers.

Workplace Financial Services is a business enterprise which offers products and services through Schwab Retirement Plan Services, Inc.; Schwab Stock Plan Services; and Designated Brokerage Services. Schwab Retirement Plan Services, Inc., provides recordkeeping and related services with respect to retirement plans. Schwab Stock Plan Services is a division of Charles Schwab & Co., Inc. providing equity compensation plan services and brokerage solutions for corporate clients. Schwab Designated Brokerage Services (DBS), a division of Charles Schwab & Co., Inc., provides technology solutions for corporate clients with regulatory requirements to monitor employee security transactions.  which.  Schwab Retirement Plan Services, Inc., and Charles Schwab & Co., Inc. (“Schwab”) (Member SIPC) are separate but affiliated entities, and each is a subsidiary of The Charles Schwab Corporation.

Vesting means ownership of your account or your entitlement to benefits. You are always 100% vested in any contributions that you make to your retirement plan, even if you leave your employer. However, depending on what type of retirement plan you have and the choices your employer has made about the benefits under the plan, vesting of employer contributions may be immediate or may take up to seven years. Your plan's disclosure documents will contain the specific vesting schedule.

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