Growing up, money was a mysterious topic to O’Licia that was often associated with stress. By osmosis in her home, she thought that savings were something you hoped to have enough of, rather than an intentional plan.
As a result, O’Licia didn’t prioritize retirement savings when she began her career. She thought contributing to a 401(k) was something to worry about later in life until she discovered that financial planning is much more than just saving for retirement.
Her perspective shifted when a friend showed her an investment calculator projecting the thousands of dollars in both her contributions and “free money” through company matching that she missed by not investing in her 401(k) sooner.
“Seeing the amount of money that could have been in my investment account was a wake-up call,” she said.
Using AT&T financial benefits to build a strong future
Discovering the onsite financial consultant helped create another shift for O’Licia when she started at AT&T. Their expertise, patience, and genuine concern for her finances boosted her confidence to take ownership over her investment strategies. The Fidelity Workplace Financial Consultant advised her on contribution ranges based on her age and savings goals, how to live within her means now, and how to gradually increase contributions over time through programs like AT&T’s Annual Increase Program. While retirement still seemed far off, she got excited about the strategic decisions she was making that would benefit her later.
AT&T employees can access financial consultants through onsite offices in Dallas and Atlanta, or via phone consultations on Fidelity NetBenefits. AT&T even offers professional 401(k) management at competitive rates through Edelman Financial Engines.
“I see AT&T as a partner, with financial resources to help me reach my goals.”
Unlocking financial perks in other benefits
In her Corporate Communications role, O’Licia supports the benefits team and quickly became a benefits evangelist. Many other AT&T benefits have hidden financial perks from notable cost savings to earning incentives. O’Licia is a fan of the Wellbeing Choice Account program, which rewards eligible employees up to $750 in financial incentives for completing wellbeing activities, including the one-on-one financial consultation she did with a Fidelity Workplace Consultant onsite. The Lyra EAP, which is no cost to employees, saved her hundreds of dollars that she would otherwise spent on a therapist or coach.
“Financial wellbeing impacts every area of life. Concerns about money can lead to emotional stress and physical health issues if it lasts over a long period of time. However, developing a solid financial plan with the resources we have available and speaking with an advisor can help turn stress into confidence.”
The Importance of Planning for the Future
For O’Licia, financial literacy has been transformative. By tackling unhelpful views around money, she shifted her fear to confidence. She’s not just thinking about retirement; she’s dreaming big, like saving for her next home. With support from AT&T’s resources, those goals feel achievable. She encourages everyone to explore all that AT&T offers.
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