Page 81 - DCAC Feb 2026 Files

County of San Mateo Deferred Compensation Program Participant Survey 2026

account into my private one so that it's all under one umbrella. I only started the deferred comp
before I became vested just to have something to contribute to. Now I see it as one more
account to manage.
317 not sure 1/14/2026 5:09 PM

318 Nothing, i think i have access to everything i need 1/14/2026 5:03 PM
319 Paying off my bills is my priority this year. 1/14/2026 4:59 PM
320 To be able to speak with an advisor for sound advice. 1/14/2026 4:59 PM

321 Probably get a reminder at least twice a year to check how the plan is doing. 1/14/2026 4:52 PM
322 Understanding and learning more 1/14/2026 4:40 PM
323 employer contribution 1/14/2026 4:37 PM
324 maybe a webinar 1/14/2026 4:34 PM

325 I would like to see a few more options (investment funds/strategies), available to invest 1/14/2026 4:30 PM
contirbutions.
326 With the current plan there are multiple compounded fees. I believe there is a 3% fee in which 1/14/2026 4:25 PM
empower and the county split. In addition to the elected plan (Vanguard) management fee. I
would prefer a plan directly with Vanguard that didn't include the additional fees. I am
dissatisfied with Empower and would prefer a fee-free alternative. I am also dissatisfied with
the county benefiting from a fee on the account. I am actively exploring alternatives. I am
concerned about future plans to expand deferred compensation to reduce pension plans.

327 I would like to better understand the program 1/14/2026 4:24 PM
328 1. SMC/Empower allows me to transfer 50% of my deferred comp contributions to Schwab - 1/14/2026 4:23 PM
into a Schwab Personal Choice Retirement Account. This is very helpful because Schwab
offers more investing options, and at times, their staff is more skilled than Empower staff. But
I appreciate the easy access to Empower financial consultants, and I have learned from them
over the years. Please retain the Schwab option for employees, and if possible, allow us to
transfer more into Schwab PCRAs. 2. Sometimes Benefits staff are not aware of the deferred
compensation maximums (for all age groups), and the new annual maximum is not updated in
Workday as quickly as it should be. This is important to correct, because the maximum
contribution changes. Workday tells you the maximum (but sometimes this information is out
of date, especially when the year changes). 3. When I first started deferred comp, I had no
idea whether investing in Traditional or Roth was better. Over time, I've learned the benefits of
contributing to a Roth. I wonder if there's any way to explain this more fully to employees,
perhaps in the Benefit Guide or in Workday. I'm sure that's tricky, but it would be helpful!
329 Potential for 457(b) matches by the County. The biggest challenge I face ahead of retirement is 1/14/2026 4:20 PM
diverting enough funds to purchase a house plus continued contribution to my 457(b). Extra
support from the County would be beneficial as I plan for a long-term purchase like a home.

330 more informational classes of webinars to help make the most out what we can put in 1/14/2026 4:18 PM
331 higher ROI 1/14/2026 4:17 PM
332 workshops, or instructional videos 1/14/2026 4:15 PM
333 Am already intensely and highly motivated to. 1/14/2026 4:14 PM

334 I cannot not think of anything that could be helpful for me. 1/14/2026 4:13 PM
335 just so expensive living here, can't see how I can retire and live here 1/14/2026 4:07 PM
336 Continue to provide educational resources and access to reps. 1/14/2026 4:02 PM

337 I'm already motivated 1/14/2026 3:58 PM
338 I wish we had employer contributions! 1/14/2026 3:58 PM
339 financial advice from someone 1/14/2026 3:53 PM
340 I'm motivated. 1/14/2026 3:51 PM

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