Aesop Intermediate, LLC 401(k) Plan FAQ
This document provides frequently asked questions about eligibility, company contributions, and vesting for the 401(k) plan offered by Aesop Intermediate, LLC.
1 AESOP Auto Parts - Privileged & Confidential Aesop Intermediate, LLC 401(K) Plan Frequently Asked Questions 1. When do I become eligible to participate in the 401(k) plan? To participate in the 401(k) plan, you must be 21 years old and complete six months of service (original hire date). 2. Does the company match employee contributions? Yes – The company matches 50% of employee contributions up to 5% of compensation. (subject to Vesting Schedule) 3. How does 401(k) vesting work? Money in your 401(k) account vests over time. Vesting in a retirement plan means ownership. This means that each employee will vest, or own, a certain percentage of their account in the plan each year. Your contributions: Money you contribute from your paycheck is always 100% vested. Vesting schedules only apply to money your employer puts into your account. Vesting schedule is below.
2 AESOP Auto Parts - Privileged & Confidential 4. Is there a default contribution amount? No – You get to choose the amount you contribute to the 401(k) plan. You can also change the amount you are contributing at any time. 5. What is the maximum annual contribution? The IRS sets annual limits for 401(k) plans. -In 2025 an employee can invest an amount up to $23,500 in their 401(k) account. -In 2025 any employees who are 50 years old or over can contribute an additional amount of $7,500 (catch-up). The total amount of $31,000 for 2025 if you are 50 years old or over. 6. How does a 401(k) contribution affect my paycheck? All 401(k) contributions are taken from your paycheck before taxes (pre-tax). Example 1: No 401(k) plan An employee who makes $18.00 an hour. (80 hours/paycheck x $18.00/hour = $1,440 gross pay) Without a 401(k) plan the employee will pay taxes on the entire $1,400. Example 2: 401(k) plan An employee who makes $18.00 an hour and contributes 5% to their 401(k) account. (80 hours/paycheck x $18.00/hour = $1,440 gross pay). ($1,440 gross pay x 5% = $72 contribution 401(k) account = ($1,440 gross pay - $72 401(k) contribution = $1,368. With a 401(k) plan the employee will pay taxes on $1,368 instead of $1,440. Employees who have a 401(k) contribution will lower their annual taxable income. 7. When is enrollment for the 401(k) plan? Enrollment for the 401(k) plan is quarterly. January 1st, April 1st, July 1st and October 1st. 8. How do I enroll in the 401(k) plan? Visit the empower website: https://participant.empower- retirement.com/participant/#/login You are also welcome to call Empower 1-800-338-4015 and they will help you enroll.
3 AESOP Auto Parts - Privileged & Confidential 9. What plans are offered? You have two different options for enrollment. a. Quick Enrollment (contribution rate is set for 6% and it defaults to Target Date Funds per your retirement date) (You can change your contribution rate at any time). b. Customize Enrollment (you choose contribution rate, investments and customize percentages for each fund). 10. What online tools are there for tracking my 401(k)? Once you sign up for the 401(k) plan you will be assigned a personal website that you log into with the username and password you choose. On this website you can view statements, update personal information, view/manage investments and much more. 11. How can I change my beneficiaries? Once you sign up for the 401(k) plan you will be assigned a personal website that you log into with the username and password you choose. Under the I want to…. section you can view/edit beneficiary information. Please make sure you review this information on a yearly basis, to make sure you have the correct beneficiaries on your account. 12. Do you have any educational resources for learning about my 401(k)? Empower offers a learning website for all members. Feel inspired about your financial future with expert insights, interactive learning tools, calculators and more. Access the website at - https://www.empower.com/learning_center/#/ 13. Is there a Roth option for after-tax investments? No – At this time, the company does not offer a Roth option for your 401(k). 14. Can I rollover a balance from a previous 401(k) and if so, how? Yes – You can rollover a balance from a previous 401(k) plan. To start the rollover process, call the Empower Rollover Team at 1-888-737-4480. 15. When can I withdraw my funds? You can withdraw your funds upon termination of employment or reaching the age of 59½ (partial withdrawal for 59½) To withdraw your funds, go to your individual 401(k) website. Under the I want to…. section you can start a withdrawal.
4 AESOP Auto Parts - Privileged & Confidential 16. What is the process for taking a loan or emergency withdrawal from my 401(k)? The Aesop Intermediate, LLC. 401(k) Plan does not offer loans. The only way to qualify for an emergency withdrawal is a hardship withdrawal. A hardship withdrawal will be reviewed by our TPA Nova and will require documentation and receipts. To see if you qualify for a hardship withdrawal, please contact our Employee Benefits Manager – Heather Solomon – 816-242-0592 or heather.solomon@aesopauto.com. *If you have any additional questions, please contact our Employee Benefits Manager – Heather Solomon – 816-242-0592 or heather.solomon@aesopauto.com.
