For Parents at EMCOR Group: 4 Steps to Protecting a Child with Disabilities

Parents employed in EMCOR Group may relate to how raising a child is expensive and can cost a quarter of a million dollars, not including college. For a child with special needs, that cost can more than double.1 If you’re the parent of a special needs child, it’s vital to ensure your child will continue to be provided for after you’re gone. It can be difficult to contemplate, but with patience, love, and perseverance, a long-term strategy is attainable and can help bring some peace of mind.

Envisioning a Life Without You

Just as every child with special needs is unique, so too are the challenges facing their families when planning for the long term. As an employee of EMCOR Group, you must think about the potential needs of your child. Will they require daily custodial care? Ongoing medical treatments? Will your child live alone or in a group home? Can family members assume some of the care? Answers to these and other questions can help form the vision of what may need to be done to plan for your child’s care.

Planning Your Estate

Without proper planning, your child’s lifetime needs can quickly outstrip your funds. With that under consideration, those in EMCOR Group may want to consider government benefits, such as Supplemental Security Income (SSI) and Medicaid, which your child may qualify for depending on their situation. Because such government programs have low-asset thresholds for qualification, you may want to consider whether to make property transfers to your special needs child.

As an employee of EMCOR Group, you should also make sure you have an up-to-date will that reflects your wishes. Consider creating a special needs trust, the assets of which can be structured to fund your child’s care without disqualifying them from government assistance.2

Involve the Family

All affected family members should be involved in the decision-making process. If at all possible, it’s best to have a united front of surviving family members to care for your child after you’ve passed on.

Identify a Caregiver

In order for a caregiver to make financial and health care decisions after your child reaches adulthood, the caregiver must be appointed as a guardian. Those in EMCOR Group may want to consider how this can take time, so start setting this in motion as soon as you can amidst your busy work schedule.

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To do this, you can write a “Letter of Intent” to the caregiver and family to express your wishes along with information about your child’s care. EMCOR Group parents must acknowledge that although this isn’t a legal document, it may help to communicate your desires. Store this letter alongside your will, in a safe place.

EMCOR Group parents must understand that planning for a child with special needs can be complicated and overwhelming, but you don’t have to do it alone. Working with loved ones and qualified professionals can help you navigate the various facets of this challenge. If we can help, please don’t hesitate to reach out.

1. Policygenius, 2019
2. Using a trust involves a complex set of tax rules and regulations. Before moving forward with a trust, consider working with a professional who is familiar with the rules and regulations.

With the current political climate we are in it is important to keep up with current news and remain knowledgeable about your benefits.

EMCOR Group offers a structured 401(k) Savings Plan and employee pension benefits designed to provide financial security for its employees. According to EMCOR's benefits documentation for 2022, 2023, and 2024, employees are eligible to contribute up to 50% of their pre-tax eligible earnings to the 401(k) plan. The company matches 100% of the first 3% contributed, followed by a 50% match for the next 2% (EMCOR Facilities). For pension benefits, EMCOR offers participation in a defined benefit pension plan, though the specific pension formula and eligibility are based on years of service and age requirements, typically for employees meeting certain full-time service criteria. The benefits and qualifications are subject to company-specific guidelines.

Restructuring and Layoffs: In early 2023, EMCOR Group announced a restructuring plan to streamline its operations and enhance efficiency. This involved the elimination of redundant positions and a reduction in workforce across several divisions. The decision was influenced by the need to adapt to shifting market demands and optimize operational costs. Importance: Given the current economic uncertainties and fluctuating investment climates, it's crucial to stay informed about such changes. These adjustments could impact stock performance, investment strategies, and tax implications, which are vital for both investors and employees to understand.

Stock Options (SO): EMCOR Group (EMCOR) provides stock options primarily to executives and key employees as part of their compensation package. These stock options allow employees to purchase EMCOR shares at a fixed price, typically granted based on performance metrics or tenure. Restricted Stock Units (RSUs): EMCOR issues RSUs to a broad range of employees, including senior management and high-performing staff. RSUs vest over time or upon meeting specific performance goals, granting employees shares of EMCOR stock without requiring purchase. Eligibility: Eligibility for stock options and RSUs at EMCOR is generally based on job level, performance, and tenure with the company. Senior executives receive stock options more frequently, while RSUs are more widely distributed among employees.

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